I'll Sing the Words

The other day in chapel one of our teachers told a great story. She said that in her family, when they get together for Christmas to sing carols, they always discuss at great length what parts each member of the family will sing. While they were presumably fighting over the best parts, her husband, who some might say is musically challenged, chimed in with one of the most profound lines I have heard in a long time. He simply said, "I'll sing the words."

His words challenged me. We don't want to be out of tune; we want to blend in with the choir. Why are we so worried about how we look or how we sound? Why can't we just sing the words? Why can't we just do what's right? Why can't we just follow Jesus wholeheartedly, even though the road is narrow and difficult? If the "words we sing" are the actions that define who we are and what we believe, why do we so often forget the right lyrics?

Jesus said you will know a Christian by his fruit. James said that faith without works is dead. Am I singing the right lyrics? Am I more worried about a charming melody than truthful words? Will people know me by my words and actions, or by how well I fit in with the crowd? Last Tuesday, 30 students gathered around the flag pole to pray. They were singing the right lyrics. Yesterday, 15 students, staff, and parents sang the right words by helping distribute food to the needy at our food truck. Those actions are "singing the right words" for all the world to hear.

Our musically challenged teacher likes to say, "Make a joyful noise!" Amen to that. Let's make that noise, even when the world tells us that it sounds awful or it makes them uncomfortable.

What lyrics will your life sing?

Another School Year? Bring It On!

It might be just me, but there are few things in life that I feel less prepared for than fall. I know, it’s a nice time of year. Temperatures are cooler, leaves are falling, and football is being played every weekend. Super. I’m pumped. Can you sense my excitement? I’m sorry, but I just love summer. It’s not because I don’t have to work (because I do), it’s because I love not having to bundle up to go outside, or snow blow my driveway, or scrape ice off my window. The problem with fall is not the weather; it’s that it signals the weather to come. I can’t help it that I spent 8 years living near the equator. It does something to your body, I think, and two years back in Michigan has not yet cured me. In time, maybe.

Now let me tell you the truth: I may not be prepared for fall, but I am still very excited about the new school year! My pessimistic side says “NO!! I'm not finished with summer yet! I'm not ready for school to start! But my optimistic side says “Thank you Lord for another school year, and another chance to work with kids!”

This is a school. I could make a long list of current and potential problems for the upcoming year. What is it that gives me confidence as we move ahead? Why can I, and each of you, be optimistic? Here are three simple reasons, and some scripture to back them up:

1. With God, all things are possible (Mark 10:27)
2. Jesus Christ is the creator and ruler of all (Col. 1:15-17)
3. We can do all things through Christ (Phil. 4:13)

Now, tell me, how can you be pessimistic about this year, or about your situation, or about your kids, or about anything? We have so much to be thankful for, including being loved by a savior who created the earth and everything in it, who gives us strength to do all things, and a God who can do the impossible. Another school year? Bring it on!