Sunday Thoughts - the organ

When I was 18 and beginning my freshman year of college, my parents moved into a new neighborhood and home. As I was commuting to and from college, I lived at home and attended our church congregation with them. We'd only been there a short time when the Bishop stopped by our home to extend an opportunity of service within the congregation (often referred to as a "calling"). Expecting they were coming to talk to my parents, I was surprised to hear the Bishop actually wanted to visit with me. And then even more surprised when he asked if I'd be willing to play the organ for the entire congregation for the meetings each Sunday.

I swallowed.

And then I gulped.

The idea of playing an instrument I knew very little of felt a tad overwhelming. I had gratefully learned the piano, and had learned a few key strokes on the organ from a dear Young Women's President when I was in my youth. But my parents had given our piano to a family friend when they moved, and the idea of playing the hymns in front of a couple hundred people felt like a huge mountain of weight.

But, I said yes.

Week over week, I practiced. Many times I played with the organ far too loud, but members were so kind and welcoming at being "woken up" with the sounds of the hymns at a louder volume. I made loads of mistakes, but kept trying. I began to feel myself improving.

A few months in, then Elder Nelson (a member of our church leadership - the quorum of the 12), was visiting that day. He had a grandchild - either coming home or just leaving on a mission for the church, and was attending out of support as their grandpa. One of the songs that day was "Come, Come Ye Saints." I truly loved that song, and had practiced it many times.

Yet, in the moment of the hymn, I botched it. Made loads of mistakes. I still remember the hot feeling of my face, trying to hold back hot tears and the shakiness of my hands as I struggled to finish what seemed like a never ending song.

At the close of the song, I felt a flood of emotion - frustration for not being able to do better, feeling like I wasn't capable, and feeling like I'd really never get it.

The meeting eventually ended, and as I was playing the postlude music, Elder Nelson approached me. I was so surprised that he came over - there were so many extended family members and friends that he had known for many years. He had never met me, and I was not connected to any of the celebration that day.

But he came over.  In a few words gave me confidence that I was indeed doing great and that I would continue to grow. His words were simple but his presence conveyed a feeling of love, appreciation, confidence and hope. I teared up - this time the tears were not because of feelings of inadequacy but were replaced with feelings of hope. That I was enough. That I was doing my part and that I didn't need to worry about my mistakes. That I was capable and would continue to get better as I practiced and put my trust in God.

This spring, when President Nelson stood up to share the direction of the church and allowing members to minister to one another as a form of Christ-like service, I knew that he was sharing a principle that he has practiced for many, many years.

That day, he ministered to me. He gave confidence, love and support to a woman he'd never met, didn't know her name, and when he easily could have spent his time in many other ways. But he responded to the voice of guidance in the present moment with action.

I am so grateful for his example of Christ-like service.

Just three weeks ago, I had the opportunity to sit in the same chapel that I first learned to play the organ in. It was fun to see some familiar faces, and to enjoy visiting with my parents.

But I was beyond humbled and surprised as the opening song that day was "Come, Come Ye Saints." Tears again filled my eyes, as I was reminded of that song and experience 19 years ago that happened in that very chapel.

The Lord is so mindful of us.

I felt an overwhelming abundance of love for the tender mercies that our Heavenly Father shows his love to us.

I am so grateful for the opportunity that we have to practice giving this love to others - and can often do this through being present and serving. I know that service is love in action and that it truly can come in some of the smallest and simplest of ways.

I know that we are loved abundantly by Heavenly Parents. I know that we do not need to earn this love - but that it exists for all of us. I know that Christ can heal our burdens, pains and struggles - no matter how small they may seem. I know that President Nelson is guided as a special witness of Jesus Christ, and has been refined through many hours of practice and dedication to His work. I know that the Book of Mormon is the truest book on the earth. I am grateful for the courage and conviction of  Joseph Smith who restored the fulness of the gospel on earth. I know that my Redeemer lives.