Beautiful Yukon
Music can be so invigorating and uplifting, especially if it is directed
towards praising God! Realizing this, Mr. Bowen volunteered to join Bishop
Bompas in the Yukon. Little was known of the territory at that time, but Mr.
Bowen became convicted that a musical instrument would be of help.
It was difficult to choose which instrument would be the best, however, as it
had to be one that was hardy, yet small enough and light enough for easy
transportation. Unfortunately, this ruled out both the piano and the guitar! Mr.
Bowen decided on the concertina, a small music instrument of the free-reed
family, much like a miniature accordion. The only problem was that he had no
idea how to play it! This didn't deter him however, and during his voyage north
he ardently practiced this unusual instrument.
Mr. Bowen's fellow passengers weren't overly happy with the would-be musician.
Though he sought to produce heavenly music, the sounds that emanated from his
cabin were far more like teeth extractions being performed by ill-tempered
dentists! He was threatened with dire consequences if he continued to play;
nevertheless, he persevered. I don't know about you, but I don't think I would
have liked to be on that ship very much!
His zealous, adamant practice paid off, however. Once in the Yukon, Mr. Bowen's
little instrument brought endless comfort and pleasure to the many lonely,
isolated people of the north territory. In fact, the mere sight of the
concertina halted many an argument and fight, changing rude shouts to joyful
singing. The concertina and its illustrious player also opened up many doors for
sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ!
A stranger visited a church service one time, and when he heard the music, he
stopped in his tracks, looked around bewildered and yelled "Where in so and so
is the music coming from?" People never seemed to stop being amazed at the
lovely sounds that emanated from that tiny instrument. It was like sound leading
to heaven!
Music is powerful. No wonder the apostle Paul urged us to "Speak to one another
with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the
Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our
Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph 5:19-20 NIV)
I mean, let's face it! How can you look like a dried-up prune when singing to
the glory of God? (Sad to say I know of churches whose members seemed to have
simmered too long in the sun!) How can you continue to feel forlorn and
depressed when there are sounds of praise resonating from you own throat? How
can you continue to grumble and criticize others when music overtakes your
heart?
Impossible!
Is it possible that we focus too much on our sour circumstances instead of
focusing on the joy of knowing Christ?
Is it possible that we concentrate too often on what others are doing instead of
concentrating on what God is doing?
Let's sing continually to the glory of God. Let Him continually fill our heart
with joy. Let us make music in our hearts and listen for God's response. It's an
awesome experience, believe me! "In all our troubles my joy knows no bounds." (2
Cor 7:4 NIV)
Come and experience the power of singing to the glory of the Lord! Much better
than becoming a dried-up prune don't you think? Still, Prune Juice is an
experience on its own!
Rob Chaffart
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.