Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I am doing a new thing…”
For as long as I can remember, I gravitated toward the world of music. I played violin in the orchestra, sang in the choir, and even dabbled in musical theater. Shortly after I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I felt the tug to lead people in musical worship.
One evening after church, a youth leader pulled me aside. “Jean, I know you can sing. Do you want to sing with us on stage?” I was torn. I wanted to respond to what I sensed God asking of me, but I wasn’t sure I was up to the task. So I responded with “I don’t know.” What that leader did next was pivotal in my life. He said to me: “Look, you can sing. But I can’t decide for you. So this is the last time I’m going to ask. Do you want to sing with us?”
My yes that night was the catalyst for my journey of leading people in worship of Almighty God for the past two decades. And what a beautiful adventure it has been!
I don’t think I’m alone when I admit that it is not always easy to say yes to God. We look at ourselves and see what’s wrong instead of the potential. We resign to our brokenness and doubt that healing is possible. We give shame and fear more real estate in our minds than the promises of God’s Word.
I’m reminded of a story from the book of John, where Jesus approaches a man who had been ill for nearly four decades. Jesus’ first words to him were “Do you want to be healed?” Healing was right there in front of him, but first, he had to admit his need. His “yes” both confessed his need and declared Jesus’ greatness, and in response to his honest vulnerability, the Savior stepped in and restored him.
God’s ability to restore has no limits. He is ready and waiting to bring us, his prodigal creation, back to our fullest potential. He just needs our yes.
Jean Menjivar
Modern Worship