Choir

I went to choir rehearsal last night.

Oh, what a blessing. What a blessing to lift and blend my voice with the other dedicated members of the Arapahoe Road music ministry. To be back among people who have held me up and prayed for me and visited us throughout this past difficult year.

Aside from a few weeks last summer, I really haven't been in choir since Jolene's death. First, it was too painful. Every song made me cry. Then, my knee went out and I couldn't possibly make the steps. Lately, I've been busy with writing deadlines and getting Mom settled. (And oh, yes, I still wasn't sure about those steps. Turns out they weren't so difficult after all.)

The rehearsal was wonderful, everything I hoped and longed for, until we reached a song we practiced for last year's Good Friday service. (We're using the same song again this year.)

I rehearsed and prepared for that service, but never took part. Instead, we held Jolene's memorial service on Good Friday. Easter came early last year, March 23, during the time we were in the first throes of grief. For all I know, every Easter from now on I will remember that Easter.

So grief and memory continue to intertwine in my life. Pray for strength to sing God's praise. He is the Resurrection and the Life and most worthy of all my praise and so much more.

Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. (Psalm 96:1-2, NIV)