A Moment To Praise 8.31.20
Joyce Lochinger, Gravel Hill Worship Leader
Hardships
I grew up in a small town, and I must admit to the fact that I hadn’t thought of hardship too much, because not too much happened in my little corner of the world. I think that there were a few reasons for that. For one, my dad fought in World War II and had seen so much hardship and battle. Not only that, but he was severely wounded twice and received a Purple Heart for his efforts during the Battle of the Bulge. He saw hardship and despair firsthand.
For another, both of my parents grew up during the Great Depression. Their families had absolutely nothing, so they knew true hardship in terms of personal life. I know that they felt that we were beyond blessed to be a part of the family they had created. As children, we reflected that feeling.
Lastly, we didn’t focus on hardships because my parents just didn’t allow it. They always reminded us that our lives were good, that we had family, fun, and God and that was all that mattered. I can truly say that growing up, I didn’t know how our neighbors lived compared to us. There was no “keeping up with the Joneses” in my house. I was perfectly content and happy in my life.
The Guest
Then, one Sunday morning, instead of our usual worship, we had a guest worship leader. I cannot remember his name, but I remember his story. He had been blind from the time he was born and had lived a very difficult life. He knew all about hardship, but had decided that he was going to be a servant for Christ.
Our guest leader played the guitar and sang, and when he wasn’t singing, he then played the harmonica, which was attached to his neck. He led worship and told his story that day, which had the entire congregation mesmerized. His only form of income was selling his albums. My parents purchased his album and we listened to it often – it served as yet another reminder to us that life is what you make it, and in Christ, it can be so good, even if it might seem otherwise on the outside.
A Moment To Praise 8.31.20 in Scripture
We never talked about this man or his ministry in the usual way you might discuss something for effect or as a life lesson. My parents were much more “live by example” types of models in my life. But, when we played his record, there was a deep reverence and care exuding from my folks that naturally rubbed off on me. It was clear that this person had an understanding that he could do anything through Christ from whom his strength came.
I pray for that same strength for myself every day, as I also pray that my family and all of you would experience it, too. We CAN get through all things of this life, because we have the Word and promise of the Lord.
A Moment To Praise 8.31.20 in Song
Have a great week! Enjoy this song, “Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me”.
| CityAlight – Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me (Live)
“Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me” recorded live at St Paul’s Castle Hill. Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2T15n2J Apple Music: https://apple.co/2PRW8mL Words an… |
Have a great day!
