laugh & learn

Watch the following short commercial from the UK, for an important message delivered with a giggle. :-)

simplicity

Church yesterday was short and sweet, being during summer. There were about a dozen people there, and I was definitely the youngest! Admittedly, I would have probably skipped out if I hadn't had to play piano this week. But I'm glad I didn't.

There is something so refreshing about worshipping with such a small group of people. These are the ones who are truly dedicated - why else would they show up at all on a Sunday morning in July?

There were 4 hymns, a couple of prayers, and a sermon offered by a member of the congregation (not in that order, you understand). Very little of the usual rituals. Very informal. (The worship leader didn't even use a microphone even though the whole "crowd" was at the back of our little church!)

Normally I'm all for a little ritual - within reason. Candlelighting, sung responses, etc... It often helps us focus, get centred, be present in the moment. It also reminds us of where we've come from - the wider church - and the fact that we are a part of something bigger... But sometimes it also allows me to zone out - it becomes such a mindless thing, one of those things I've done so often I don't need to think about it. I often wonder how many people really *think* about The Lord's Prayer as they rattle it off in hushed tones, for example.

Don't get me wrong; I try to make sure my worship is meaningful and that I remember I'm there to connect with God. But often, as the person behind the piano, I get easily distracted with making sure I don't miss my cue and that I'm on the right page. Yesterday was a very nice change of pace. A chance to pay attention. To answer the question, "What *really* counts in worship?" I wouldn't want it like that *every* week (I'd miss the ritual!), but once every month or two might be nice. :-)

I've been waiting for this

I thought I had posted about Sheena Grobb before but apparently not... I have become one of her biggest fans over the past year (helps that she grew up in my hometown and we used to sing in choir together), and I really think she's the next big thing.

I saw her in concert last month and was once again blown away. I was very tired, and tired often equals emotional for me, but I was crying/teary-eyed through about half the concert. She announced that night that she would be releasing a free download of one of her songs and I've been anxiously waiting because it was my favorite song from the night. She's asking people to spread the word so she can get some more publicity about her upcoming album, so check it out!! www.sheenagrobb.com (click on the graphic) Enjoy!

looong overdue

Father's Day came and went a while back, and as with mother's day (only moreso), I am *very* tardy in my recognition of that fact. My dad did get the usual visit, small gift & card, with the appropriate sentiments, and I should say before I go further that I don't do that stuff out of obligation, but out of appreciation. (Hence the not really caring about the specific date of fathers day).

Dad, I think I basically said it all in the card, but for those of you who don't know my dad, here's what's so darn great about him.

1) He's patient. Not to say he never gets angry, but when he finally gets exasperated, it's warranted. ;-)
2) He's musical. Mom is too, but it was Dad that was up there on that stage at all those local talent shows playing guitar so I could sing my little heart out.
3) I'm trying to find the word here... rock solid? steady? grounded? There is just something about his presence in my life that makes me calmer and I think somewhat more grounded myself than I might otherwise be.
4) He's respectful. Perhaps the most significant thing he taught me, without even saying it directly, was that I deserve respect. Again, mom taught me that too, but I think it has a different effect coming from a significant male role model...
5) He is probably the hardest working man I know. And another significant lesson I learned from him was to follow my heart - when I was in high school, he quit his job of 20+ years, and decided to farm full time & run his own business on his terms. I'm sure that wasn't a simple decision to make, but I'm also quite certain it was the right one for him, and I know we all benefitted from a much more relaxed dad that first harvest!
6) He lives his faith. His actions are grounded in his values. I have learned a lot about integrity from my dad.
7) He's a very handy guy to have around.... Installing light fixtures, doing garage renovations, installing flooring... Much like my wish that I had paid more attention in the kitchen with my mom, I wish I had followed my dad around doing those tasks a bit more too!

I could go on and on, but I'm sure even this much has managed to embarrass him... Sorry dad, but I think the whole world should know that my dad really *IS* the greatest dad ever. ;-)