Time to practice again. I love to play violin, but practice? That takes discipline. Right now though, taking lessons in Taiwan, I HAVE to practice every day for at least an hour or two or I can't keep up. -They are VERY achievement oriented. My teacher is frustrated enough already that I'm slow. (Okay, I'm not Taiwanese. It's work to keep up with Asians....)
You see, I have a learning challenge that gives me poor coordination. Some days, when I play violin, my brain clicks right, and I sound like I've been playing ten years. Other days, my bow hand doesn't line up with my fingers no matter how hard I try, and I sound worse than my first year students.
Lord, I prayed, why can't I play like normal people? Can't you let me play the song perfectly the way my teacher wants it just once???
God whispered the answer in my ear, "But if you play it perfectly, you'll quit practicing."
True. Unfortunately true. Whenever I play a song the right way, I often quit while I'm ahead, or I quit practicing that part because I know it now.
I got the point Lord.
It hit me like my bow striking a chord. Practicing an instrument is just another picture of living life for Christ. The process of seeking the Lord, sinning, repenting, and seek the Lord again keeps me dependent on Christ. If I were instantly perfect the day I received Christ, I would no longer need Christ. That would NEVER do!
Yes, I would love to play like a concert violinist, but my brain isn't wired that way. You know what though? A sweet friend listening to me the other day told me, "the practice may seem frustrating now, but keep at it. Someday you'll play perfectly in heaven's orchestra." A great reminder.
So also, life's journey may get frustrating. Many times. However, God didn't promise an easy path on earth. His own Son died! Then, three days later, that same Son rose from the grave to empower us to conquer sin and death. Earth is battle ground. It will be worth it when we get to heaven!
So keep practicing my friend!
Comments