Arise Concert: Faith, Hope, Love, Life

by Gail Tadle

Last December 2023, HCC decided to embark in holding a worship concert instead of the customary caroling. The objectives are two-fold. First, hold an evangelistic event to reach more people through Christian songs and worship of the Lord. And second, a fund-raising event to generate funds for evangelization. My overall experience turned out to be spiritually uplifting as I volunteered to serve in this event.

It all started with a simple “yes”. It came in response to a call for volunteer singers, so I went ahead and volunteered to participate, armed only with a desire to sing, and the willingness to commit to late nights of practice for a good cause. When the music coordinator graciously received me, I was surprised and realized it’s not so much about having a good voice (kudos to those who DO have a good voice!) but a willingness to make music in unison with others. Little did I know that as I was giving a part of myself, that I was receiving more from the experience.

Trusting the music coordinator to use me was like allowing God to use me regardless of how imperfect I was for the role. Nights of practice became an opportunity to also bond together and build camaraderie. We built up each other and helped one another to sing in harmony and unison. We laughed and joked at our mistakes, but kept the faith and this enabled us to improve and look over and beyond our limits. With everyone’s positive attitude and through the gentle prodding of our music coordinator and God’s Grace, beautiful music began to form.

Approaching the following week of practice, some members lost their voice due to strain and instrumentalists were falling sick. It was inspiring, however, to see everyone press on and persevering because we know this is the will of God. We did not allow our limitations to control us, because with God anything is possible (Hebrews 10:36) He even provided replacements when needed.

The personal sharers touched me as I saw God’s Hand at work in them and through them in each of the challenges they faced. It was a powerful testimony of what an amazing God we have and His ability to help us surmount the impossible. And how He can use difficult situations for a greater purpose as a witness of His gracious love and mercy.

As the night ends and the music fades, I am left with wonder and deeper appreciation for my God. He showed me how He can turn something seemingly impossible to accomplish in 2-3 months, into something extraordinarily splendid and wonderful. I was grateful to have done my part, and in the days that followed, my heart continues to sing, my mind in reverie, and my whole being more determined to persevere and walk the path of faithfulness , for God is faithful even when I am not. To God be the glory!

Facebook post of Arise Concert 2023: Link here