There’s a song in my heart, but I haven’t been able to sing it. With COVID and the churches shut down, and then the “no singing” mandate for the few churches that are meeting again – my song seems trapped.
I’ve never been one of those people who belts out a song in the shower or while in the car. That’s not to say that its never happened, but it’s not my norm.
But corporate singing? That’s my sweet spot. I’ve been singing in choirs and worship teams most of my life, and for more than 40 years I sang for the funeral industry.
So, why has it been so hard to find my song of late?
There is just something about a room full of people, lifting their voices with one goal – to worship the Lord their God.
On one of our church campuses, the 8:00 a.m. service is traditional hymns. There are no guitars or drums, just a piano, an impressive pipe organ and voices. And while I love guitars and drums, the majesty of that pipe organ and the full, solid sound of the piano are what I grew up with. I remember Sunday night “hymn sings” and the race to put your hand up – hoping the song leader would choose you to call out the next selection.
As a teenager, my family and I visited convalescent hospitals and retirement homes on Sundays. We always sang the sacred hymns. Those songs of the faith were often some of the few happy moments for residents who felt alone; abandoned by family.
So, when I was asked if I would be willing to help pre-record the vocals for that service – I had to say yes.
And in the empty sanctuary, with the piano, organ, six voices and two camera people, I found my song again. What had been locked up – like the doors of the church was set free to soar again.
“I sing because I’m happy. I sing because I’m free. For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.”