Upright Piano, Upright Heart
By Eleanor St. Clair of Tavares, FL, USA
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. O continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your salvation to the upright of heart! —Psalm 36:7–10 NRSV
God’s generosity is contagious. My daughter reinforced this to me when a couple came to her door to ask about her advertisement to sell her piano. Being a keyboard graduate, she is now our congregation’s organist and rarely used her piano any longer.
The people had to think about the asking price. As they visited, they shared they were from Ukraine and had suffered persecution because of their Christian faith. The Holy Spirit touched my daughter to help them.
She gave them the piano. They expressed astonishment and joy. When a piano teacher heard of the gift, she offered lessons—without charge. How the generous Spirit of God spreads blessings to those who are seeking!
Prayer for Peace
Steadfast and loving God, because of your generosity, we want to be generous, too. Because of your love for us, we love others. Because Christ taught peace, we proclaim peace in remembrance of him.
Spiritual Practice: Growing a Gracious, Generous Heart
Open your heart to God’s grace and generosity with a “breath prayer.” Let your breathing slow and deepen. Be aware of God’s breath moving in and out of your heart. Spend several minutes focusing on breathing in God’s generosity. With each breath, silently name one gift for which you are thankful. Let your heart expand to contain God’s gracious outpouring of love. With each breath out, name one gift you want to share from the overflow of your heart.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will look for a need and fill it beyond expectation.
