My Grandpa passed away a few years ago.
I was asked to play the organ for the opening and closing hymns at his funeral services.
Although I’ve played the piano for years, I hadn’t had any organ-related opportunities for quite a while so I knew I wanted to practice a lot. I didn’t want to be rusty for this important occasion.
I was able to get into the chapel the night before his services. I checked my email for the two hymns and practiced them over and over – I really wanted them to be perfect. “Love One Another” and “The Lord is My Shepherd”.
The morning of his funeral, I walked in with the family processional. I went to the stand and quickly traded places with the lady who was playing prelude music.
As I was changing the registrations, pedals, and books, I heard the person conducting announce the opening hymn:
“Love at Home”.
NOT “Love One Another” like I had practiced.
I hurriedly glanced at the program next to me to confirm that yes, he had announced it correctly.
I had no time to even panic – I just turned to hymn 294 and started the introduction.
I immediately and silently pleaded with the Lord to help me transfer the practice time and energy from the one hymn to the new one.
“Love at Home” actually isn’t that difficult of a hymn to play, but I had the most beautiful experience. I KNEW that everything was going to be okay. I felt strength and confidence in my playing. I’m sure my dear musical Grandpa, my Heavenly Father, and probably others were supporting me.
To me, THAT is GRACE.
The Kirtland saints pleaded with heaven in the dedicatory prayer: “And now, Holy Father, we ask thee to assist us, thy people, with thy grace”. (D&C 109:10)
They knew they didn’t really know what they were doing. They knew they had a lot to figure out still.
And they asked for God’s grace to carry them along all the right notes.
God’s grace is so good.
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
2 Responses
I don’t get on here as often as I should to thank you for all you do to inspire me and thousands like me on a daily basis. Cali- Please know that you are my favorite influencer in the gospel . I appreciate how you always share a personal story or bring to our attention a relatable story from the scriptures that makes the Come Follow Me studies for the week so special and meaningful. I know you are a busy mom , wife and servant of the Lord, but I’m so grateful that you feel called to this work. You truly inspire me every single day.
I am just now seeing this comment, but thank you so much! You are so kind, and your support means everything to me! <3