Thoughts from a Chorale

First, a bit of a disclaimer. I am in no way saying Bible School is a harmful environment or a bad place to go. Rather, I think it's a wonderful opportunity, one that every young person should experience. I myself have gone a number of times, and personally for me it has been a convicting and growing experience; an experience my life would be very empty without. So as you read, keep that in mind.




I sat watching the singers of a Bible School chorale, and I know. I know the feelings surging through them as they sing. I understand the ache of new found friends leaving so soon, the sadness of a term now over, the passion to give all in a life of wonderful service for God. I know the feeling of sharing a testimony with the audience and thinking that in some great way I have blessed them in that act of selflessness. And I know the intense emotions, at times so confusing and hard.

The chorus throbbed before me with energy. Sixty-five young people, urged on to serve God valiantly and faithfully. It was a blessing to watch. But somehow, though they sang for us and sacrificed in that way, somehow it was not true sacrifice. This group, carried on the wings of emotion and fervor, I do believe wants to serve God. But this is not where the commitment becomes very real and personal. Sacrifice, laying down self, truly giving all to Christ, that is not what is typically happening in a chorale program. Yes, you may be singing songs of dedication and service and truly mean them with all your heart, but that is not where it gets real. It gets real when you are alone before God, and He says, "Will you give me this?" And truly you do not feel valiant and carried upon the wings of emotions with friends surrounding you and urging you on. You are alone with God, and you have a choice. Give up your will, though no one may ever know, and serve God because of God, or walk your own way and find a better place to "serve" valiantly where others will watch and praise.

And I see men and women broken, poured out, given, and it's much deeper than the energy of that group singing in front of me. It doesn't always make sense. It doesn't always feel right. But they know they are His because they have given all. And that is beautiful.