Christmas is a time of joy, goodwill, and the giving of gifts—gifts for which we use our God-given time and money. During this season, we decorate our homes with twinkling lights and Nativity scenes. We bake cookies and make candy, hang our stockings, and try to be good for goodness’ sake.
Yet beyond these familiar traditions, there are other gifts God has given—gifts not wrapped in paper or ribbon. One such example is Beethoven, who became world-famous because of his gifting and dedication. Some of his contemporaries claimed he was less precise as a performer, especially later in life. His worsening deafness likely affected ensemble playing and timing, and he was known to take expressive liberties in performance, which some listeners interpreted as poor rhythm. Nevertheless, he ultimately devoted himself to composing, and God gave him the gift to excel in that calling.
In much the same way, music has been a gift woven throughout my own family. Many musicians have gone before me and are coming behind me. My beloved Aunt Ruth and Uncle Jack sang for me when I was five years old. I had requested they sing, “I said my pajamas and put on my prayers.” My mom and my Aunt Evelyn would also play for us.
As the years went on, my sister and all three brothers took part in bands. Our daughter and son played in bands as well, and cousins were involved in the music scene. Among them all, however, it was my mother-in-law who rose to particular fame. Rita practiced eight hours a day as a child, and God gave her remarkable ability. She played for many years in Jim Baker’s dance band, on a radio show called Rita Lorraine and Her Magic Violin, and in the Spokane Symphony.
Ultimately, God gives good gifts to us because we are created in His image, and we bring glory to Him when we develop those gifts. Still, the greatest gift of all surpasses every talent and tradition: the gift of God coming down in human form—Jesus—Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
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