25 Voices

 People gathered from several different walks of life. Toddlers wobbled around falling often. Students gathered. Middle aged and senior adults were also present. They all gathered for one reason. One united purpose. Each skipped their normal gatherings for worship and Bible study. Why did they gather?

To sing. To be a 25 voice choir. Not in a cathedral. Not in a sanctuary or worship center. Not in an auditorium. They gathered outdoors. On driveways to sing to homebound people who are not able worship in person. They sang songs older than I am. Some sang quietly and reverently. Some sang so softly you could barely hear them. Others belted out the notes with zealous enthusiasm. Some sang with beautiful ear pleasing voices. Some struggled to find the right pitch. A joyful noise of worship sounded from a 25 voice of choir. 

The mission was clear. To sing for Jesus and minister joy and hope to some who are confined due to health concerns. Smiles were shared. Even virtual hugs. Testimonies exchanged. Tears fell. There were shouts of joy and even some applause. 

They sang songs like Because He Lives, There Is Power In The Blood, When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder and many other old favorites . 

Those amateurish 25 voices were a blessing. They did not perform. They worshipped through song. They did not sing flawlessly. That was never the point. The point was to minister to others. To show up to a few of those who are out of sight but not out of mind. 

One person who received the ministry of song commented with misty eyes, "Thank you. We are used to being on the other side of such ministry." Because of ongoing health concerns and the pandemic they find themselves isolated but not forgotten. They have been active servants ministering to others, but find themselves in the need of ministry. 

25 voices gave a little taste of heaven to some loved and missed people. 25 voices lifted the spirits of those battling disease and old age. 25 voices ministered joy to the listeners and pleased the heart of God at the same time.