The Christmas Cantata
Sharon L. Shoemaker |
“Sharon, I understand that you have a BA in music,” Donna said. “Would you consider directing our choir for a while?
“You are doing a great job.” I replied. “Are you sure you want to give this up?”
“I’d appreciate a break.”
“Then, certainly,” I agreed.
All went well until we began rehearsing the Christmas Cantata. The music was beautiful, but no matter how much I practiced conducting. I couldn’t get the entrances right.
I shared my struggles with our pianist. “Meridee smiled and said, “I play by ear. The intros could be a little different each time.”
My stomach dropped. This spoke of disaster. I decided to lean on God and do my best.
In the following weeks, I approached rehearsals with prayers for God’s guidance as I led the choir.
Things began to improve… slowly,
Cantata Sunday finally arrived. The choir and I prayed that God would be in our performance. We asked Him to bless the listeners’ hearts through our efforts.
I walked into the sanctuary, nodded to the singers and to Meridee, then lifted my hands. God’s peace came over me. The cantata unfolded beautifully, with a few minor errors.
As the last strains of the music played, I breathed, “Thank you, God!”
The room was quiet. Then, the congregation rose and gave a standing ovation.
After the service, several people approached me with tears in their eyes. “I don’t know what it was about that cantata,” one person said. “It touched my soul deeply.”
Another whispered, “I felt as though God was right here with us tonight.”
“Thank you,” I said. “I felt Him here too.”
Never again in the many years that I led cantatas, did one touch so many. I know that God blessed that performance, and I am grateful.