New York, NY 2010: Stays in the Big Apple always seem too short because it simply contains too much to do, see, and taste. How great would it be to view and enjoy Times Square and other splendors in slow motion in order to take them in much more fully?
From Trent Ling:
“Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?” 1 Corinthians 14:7.
Implementation of a full spectrum of tones allows for the best of communications, just as utilization of an array of methods, flavors, and temperatures makes for good instruction. The Body of Christ (where individual believers represent each part) and the symphony orchestra (containing up to 100 musicians and instruments) represent a grand wholeness rarely witnessed. Behind those scenes, lone laborers hone their skills and clarify their callings. Ultimately, it may or may not all magically come together.
“How I wish I could be with you now and change my tone because I am perplexed about you!” Galatians 4:20.
Each tone is fine and appropriate in its own right, especially at its proper season. But oftentimes, working this out ironically resembles a slaughterhouse. Over time, across a website such as this one, an accumulating and fulfilling collection of tones comes available for any and all occasions. Across this site, with its multifarious methods and expressions, there should be at least something for everyone, every day. In reality, lives fully lived should so naturally produce and exude. Please bear with the various tones across the site. They are intended to offer a kind of spiritual and educational music, one day, if not today. In reality, always consider, “How much can one bongo player really offer, anyway?”
“What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a whip, or in love and with a gentle spirit?” 1 Corinthians 4:21.
Educating evangelists (how many of those are there?) constantly wrestle over how best to feed the sheep and teach the learners. How hard, stern, and plentiful is too hard, stern, and plentiful? How soft, easy, and light is too soft, easy, and light? Before your eyes and ears such discernments get worked out in real time. Bear with it today, while eating and digesting whatever possible along the way.
Even as witnessed at the recent Republican and Democratic national convention circuses, not everyone sounds the same, looks the same, or says the same. Man should always join God in seeing this as a special treat. There will always be room for your voice, your tone, and your point. Play your instrument and your body part well that you may join the congregation and the budding crescendo of tones that will scoot this show toward completion to the glory of God and to the deliverance of man.
Please feel free to join and further the discussion via the options below. No email or website information is required to post comments (unless you seek the notifications offered).
My first comment (below) centered on answering the questions in the article. I must also write how I am so thankful to God to allow me to see how beautiful the individuals are in this orchestra. God nudged me today to get my attention centered on his purpose – the ministry, the people, the orchestra! Accompaniment for the single bongo player! Although we must work out our deal with God, the nudge had me seeing that it has been overdue because of selfishness! I will repent!
Amen to both Melvin and Mila. I will borrow some early words from my brother Trent – “I need you to press me, encourage me, challenge me, and trust me. Don’t let my pride get between us. If it gets between us, it gets between me and God, so please don’t let me be so prideful that I can’t be real with you.” In other words, any tone that is needed please! I love this orchestra!
Nothing beats being in God’s band! May each of us be faithful with the body part we are. As for website, I’m thankful for you and Melvin (with his own web in Spanish) setting the example of how you play your instrument. I will share your websites with those with hearts up for the truth, regardless the tones. Love to all!
Brother, I want to become a “virtuoso” on the instrument God gave me to play with a life that resembles true submission and obedience. I want to keep an eye on the Director’s hand so I can follow His tempo while keeping an eye on the music sheet he gave me to play in the beautiful celestial orchestra we call the Body of Christ. May disciples come to the realization that we need to make unison sound for the Lord, no matter if we are part of the woodwind, brass, string or percussion sections. May we perform accordingly to honor God.
I also agree that the wide arrange of tones in this website touch people some way or other while in their particular season or specific time of need. Keep playing Trent! We are enjoying your every note!