2 Corinthians 4:16-18:- So we do not lose heart. Though our outer nature is
wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight
momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all
comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that
are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are
unseen are eternal. (ESV)
Before Christmas, as I practiced with the band for the coming service, my
guitar-strap broke and unsupported it fell to the concrete floor with a bang. I
was rather upset and since then, my beloved twelve-string has sat there in its
case in a corner of the room.
I have had the guitar since I was nineteen years old. One day something from
within lead me into a second-hand shop in South London where, as a left-handed
player, I took a chance and bought a right-handed guitar and found that it
played well, after a several minor adjustments.
Anyway, when I had the chance I took it to the menders. It would still show the
scar of its fall but it would not cost much to repair the original split with
glue. However, whilst there I was drawn to have it re-fretted, restrung with new
strings, the bridge remounted for a left-handed player and more.
The guitar is not worth the investment in cash terms to have all this done but,
as it is soon to be my birthday, I decided that I would like to have it done as
a gift from my wife because it is a part of who I am. As I play it, so I will be
reminded of the gift. Of course, I expect it will sound and play slightly better
when I get it back.
Today's scripture reminds us that although we all have damaged, worn-out parts
like my guitar, and we are not used as we were originally created we are still
lovingly cared for, repairable, renewable, and people within whom much has been
invested by our owner so that we can be a song for Him who is Loving-kindness
itself.
Rod Marshall rmarshall@glos.ac.uk
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