XVII Music

 As I found my usual seat in the congregation and put my coat and purse down, I saw Marcos, the pianist who usually leads us in worship, playing the xylophone. I smiled and got really excited about the service. Then, a lady who I had met before, Esmeralda, sat at the piano. Marcos and Esmeralda played a few songs together. It seemed like they were rehearsing. My friend, Natalie, told me that Esmeralda is Marcos' mom. That just made it all so much sweeter. Now, I was even more excited. "This is so neat!", I thought.

 We did a few hymns throughout the service like we usually do, but the xylophone and the piano together sounded incredible! It was just so fun too that it was something different than the norm. When everyone was walking around and greeting each other with two kisses, I told Esmeralda that I loved listening to them. She said thank you, but then immediately asked me if I play any instruments. I said that I play a few and told her about my experience. She related to me saying how hard it is playing violin in a worship band and showed me how she had to figure out a strategy for this morning because the hymnal book doesn't have sheet music in it.

 Then, she asked me if I had my violin with me, and I told her that unfortunately, I don't. She looked to some people near us who were in a conversation and said, "Does anyone have a violin?", to which I laughed a little bit because I was doubtful that anyone would. "I do! Why?", Natalie said. "What? Does she play the violin too?" I thought. She explained that she doesn't play anymore, but still has her violin in the house. Esmeralda said that I have to play in service sometime. So, I may be playing violin soon! I'm so excited! 

 We somehow got on the topic of hymns versus contemporary songs. I commented that I don't know very many hymns because I am used to singing contemporary Christian music, but I would like to know more hymns. She asked what my favorite hymn is and I told her "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" or, "Oh, Tu Fidelidad" is one of my favorites. Then, she looked to the pastor and told him that we need to sing it next week because it's my favorite. 

 I love how passionate she was when all I said was that I loved listening to her and her son leading worship. From there, she exploded with excitement, eager to get me more involved. 

 I am thankful for music. It brings us together and makes us realize we are all the same. I often use Sundays to listen to worship music and listen to sermons. The music I listen to has really anchored me in times of chaos. It reminds me of what waits for me at home. It reminds me of God's promises that never fail.

 Kthnxbai!