We have experienced many different things and changes during this long period of lockdown. Some of these changes will be with us for many years to come, long after we are allowed more freedom of movement. For example, many people now work all or some of their worktime at home and this has some great advantages and a few not so great, It reminds us of the “cottage industries” of many years ago. We are finding that out that our “church life” extends further than our church buildings as many more people are listening or reading our services electronically.
Although we are retired, we are finding that the lockdown is slowing us down. I am doing much more reading including the daily newspaper. I am an extremely fortunate person to have a three manual Allen organ in my home and most days I enjoy playing it.
My choice of music is quite varied and includes voluntaries which I would use before or after the service when playing the organ like at Museum Street Methodist Church which has an exceptionally fine organ. I also try to learn the new tunes which are been introduced to us.
Finally, I nearly always finish by playing some of the “Crusader Hymns” compiled by Billy Graham. The tunes when played quietly can provide the right atmosphere if played just before the start of a service.
I have many favourites and one is entitled “He lives.” The first verse is as follows: –
I serve a risen Saviour, He’s in the world today;
I know that He is living, whatever men may say;
I see his hand of mercy, I hear his voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him, He’s always near.
Refrain
He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way.
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know He lives?
He lives within my heart.
This song although written many years ago is still relevant today.
Let us hope that it will not be too long before we can heartily sing these meaningful words and many more.