Within the Wheel by Tommia Wright

Granted, I could have found a way to center the shot better, but crossing the street wasn’t in my plans just then.

Despite the imperfections, this shot tied in nicely with today’s service – Well, at least in a slightly tangible way.

Hymns, minus an organist, have a different texture, voices not tethered to keys struck, a multitude of layers as each singer focuses on the words while trying to touch the notes. The melody remains the same as familiar hymns are sung as easily as songs to a radio. It brings back memories of the ease in which songs sung in rounds can flow perfectly around a campfire, an instrument maybe or maybe not accompanying.

There are those who can match perfectly the pitch of the leader, the pastor whose ear is gifted towards music. There are those who step a note or two below, an octave or two around, and those who sing their hearts out – all the voices creating a beautiful sound.

What makes service even more enjoyable is the presence of out-of-town or out-of-state visitors. Some who are familiar with the structure, others discovering or investigating something completely new. Is it the comfort of finding familiar comrades in faith? The search of warm welcomes and understanding of the Word, or something more, something less? Is it ‘just right?’

Listening to the hymns, the verses, the sermon, it is amazing what reassuring words can do to the soul. Like cool water or necessary shade from an overbearing sun, service with others can bring comfort. Like the soothing sight of the sun after a long time in darkness, to see what has been provided by grace, by faith alone can wrap one in His arms, sins now atoned.