As I was changing the registrations, pedals, and books on the organ following the prelude, I heard the person conducting the service 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.
It was my grandpa’s funeral a few years ago, and I had been asked to play the organ for the service.
I had snuck into the chapel the night before to practice on the organ.
And I had diligently practiced “Love One Another” over and over again until the notes, registration, and volume were perfect.
So in that moment when I realized I had practiced the wrong “love” hymn, I started to pray.
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 maybe even others were supporting me.
To me, THAT is GRACE.
Divine assistance to carry us through our human frailties.
(I checked my phone afterwards— the correct hymns had been sent to me, I just read it wrong!)
I put in the practice time – that is GOOD WORKS.
I asked for divine help once I realized my mistake – that is FAITH.
I was able to play a song flawlessly with zero practice, resulting in a beautiful spiritual experience for myself, and in a reverent introduction for the congregation celebrating my Grandpa’s life – that is GRACE.
“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:2)
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
6 Responses
I have been the organist for many years in our Ward and Stake.
This sweet story touched my heart because I have had similar experiences.
I always try to plan, prepare, practice and pray before I play for church services. Many times when I have been nervous I have said another quick prayer for help. I have literally received and felt the Lord answer my prayer by giving me strength and confidence and supporting my hands to be able to perform the music that I have diligently practiced.
Plan, prepare, practice, pray and perform have become my motto when it concerns my organ and piano service.
My musical talents have truly blessed my life.
Thanks for the opportunity to express my feelings regarding this.
Thank you for sharing! I love that motto- it can be applied to so many areas in life!
Love your remarks. Have One Minute Scripture study (two one for wife one for me), watch Big Picture Monday every Sunday night together, listen to the podcast one minute…, and inscribe to Conference on the go, if that isn’t enough i get your study guides.
Aww thank you for all your support! <3
I love this story, and can totally relate! I love that your faith kicked in the elements of works and grace and the beautiful start to your grandpas funeral.
Thank you! <3