I don't know about you, but lately I've been encouraged to see
the great outpouring of public concern for the victims of
Hurricane Katrina. In times of personal distress and dispair,
it's comforting to know that there are people who care and are
willing to help in any way they can. One of my own guitar
students who is a veterinarian, recently went over to offer his
expertise where needed. And perhaps you've seen some of the
special concerts that have been aired on T.V. this past week.
Musicians and entertainers such as Paul Simon, James Taylor,
Nora Jones, Bill Cosby, Robin Williams and others, coming
together to share their gifts and talents in an effort to raise
money for the people who have been devastated by this terrible
flood. There are many Indie Artists also who have decided to
donate the proceeds from the sale of their songs to the disaster
relief fund. If you would like to join them in this effort or
buy some of their music please follow this link to:
http://cdbaby.com/group/redcross
Thousands of people have lost all their worldly possesions and
are now left with many questions and uncertainties about the
future. As musicians and songwriters, we have a unique
opportunity to use our gifts and talents to bring hope and
healing. Amidst the confusion, there are those who are asking
"Where is God in this?" and "Why did He allow this to happen?"
As they search for answers, trying to deal with the painful
emotions of anger and grief, some will have a tendency to blame
God. But He is the very One they need to turn to.
I remember a personal experience I had several years ago when
everything I thought I "owned" was about to be stripped away
from me. Having no job and no money, I was filled with fear as I
imagined myself wandering the streets homeless, alone, and
hungry. But because I am a Christian, I decided to put my hope
in Jesus who promised never to leave me or forsake me (Hebrews
13:5). It was amazing to watch how He provided for my needs in
such unexpected ways; sometimes through people I didn't even
know! Though my resources were nil, His were (and are) infinite!
So, if you get the opportunity, I encourage you to encourage
someone else by using your gift of music in the days ahead.
Perhaps you may even be inspired to write a song. If you are a
Christian, then you might find some food for creative thought by
reading the verse of scripture below. If you are not a
Christian, but have felt the impact of Hurricane Katrina, then I
hope you will find some comfort in knowing that there is a God
who is alive, who does care and whose name is Jesus.
"The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord is
enthroned as King forever. The Lord gives strength to his
people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." ~ Psalm
29:10-11 ~
Keep a song in your heart!
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