A Helping Hum

Read Exodus 17:8-13

Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear."
-Isaiah 35:34 (NIV)

ANA came forward to sing a solo. She is a new church member, participating for the first time as a soloist in our worship service. As she began singing a familiar hymn, a look of fear crossed her face. Her voice came out shaky and weak. She was singing without instrumental backup, so she struggled alone.

Suddenly, someone in the congregation began quietly humming the melody. Soon others joined in. Before long, a four-part harmony of humming accompanied Ana as she sang. Help came from all over the sanctuary. Ana took courage and finished the hymn with a beautiful, strong voice.

Our congregation's impromptu musical support for Ana reminds me of the story of Aaron and Hur, who figured out how to support Moses. When he became weary in his important task, their helping hands made all the difference.

All of us may get tired as we serve God. We may be overwhelmed with fear and feel ready to give up. Someone's helping hand can make all the difference.

by Marion Speicher Brown (South Carolina, USA)