Not Always First!

This coming Saturday is our community orchestra's Winter concert. During our last concert I had the privilege of playing in the first violin section sharing the stand with our concert master. For this Saturday's concert I have the privilege of playing in the second violin section. Over the last several years I have enjoyed going back and forth between both sections, especially when we were playing something we had performed before, thus providing me the opportunity for a different perspective of the piece. Above all I'm just happy for the opportunity to play and be a part of the orchestra and its performances.

Someone has said, "A good violinist is one with ability to play first fiddle and a willingness to play second." [source: list of sentence sermons] What would it be like to go to a symphony, only to hear everyone playing the same part? Where would be the harmony? Where would be the fullness? Where would be the richness the composer intended? Though several sections of the orchestra may be given the opportunity to carry the themes of the piece at various times, there is the need for others to take their turn in providing the foundation on which the theme rests and the harmony that brings fullness to the masterpiece. Seconds are needed (as well as the other sections of the orchestra) because everyone cannot be in the first section.

Is this not the same with life? There are times when we may be given the opportunity to be first. However, to insist on having it that way all the time is arrogant and un-thoughtful with regard to other people. Others deserve our consideration as well.

As Paul wrote to the church at Rome, he stated. . .
"Love one another with brotherly affection. OUTDO ONE ANOTHER IN SHOWING HONOR." ( Romans 12:10 ESV)

The New King James Version reads: "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor GIVING PREFERENCE TO ONE ANOTHER;"

Though I personally do not always care for the wording of "The Message" translation, I do like the idea expressed for this verse. We read, "Be good friends who love deeply; PRACTICE PLAYING SECOND FIDDLE." [© 2002, NavPress]

A part to be played and the PRIVILEGE OF PLAYING IT! Is that our attitude as we go about day-to-day living? Or are we like some who insist on being first (i.e. Diotrephes in 3 John 9) with little regard for others? The Great Composer of life has provided many parts for us to play and we ought to be willing to PLAY THE PART GIVEN. As we think of ourselves taking part in life -- being involved in people's lives in service of various kinds -- are we JOYFULLY PLAYING THE PART GOD IS PROVIDING? May we rejoice having a part to play as we HUMBLY PLAY THE PART we're given. To God such an attitude of service will prove to be very sweet music indeed.

Have a great day LIVING A SWEET SONG OF SERVICE TO OTHERS!
Carl

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