Playing a Difficult Role

The website www.Musicnotes.com contains an article called “The 10 Most Difficult Musical Instruments to Master (And Why They’re Worth the Effort).” The author points out that mastering an instrument requires physical stamina (breath control, manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination); mental discipline (perseverance to spend years practicing); and emotional resilience (to learn complex pieces and perform under pressure).

Although it is commonplace, the piano made the list of hard-to-play instruments. Beginners can play simple melodies, but mastering the keyboard requires complex fingering with both hands while simultaneously reading music in both bass and treble clefs. The other nine instruments on the list include the oboe, French horn, bassoon, bagpipes, harp, cello, accordion, violin, and organ.

What about the strength and coordination required to play the tuba in a marching band? And the composure it takes for a lone bugler to play “Taps” during a military funeral? And the pressure soloists feel when they play or sing the national anthem before a big crowd and a live TV audience?

The article concludes, “These instruments can push musicians to their limits . . . . However, if you stick with it, each offers unique rewards for those who embrace the challenge.”

Overshadowed

What role do you play in God’s orchestra? Whether you are a leader or a follower, you must play your part.

I believe one of the hardest instruments to play is second fiddle.

The first-chair violinist, also called the concertmaster, is an orchestra’s highest-ranking musician, second only to the conductor. The first-chair violinist leads the orchestra in tuning, plays solos, and acts as a liaison between the conductor and the rest of the musicians.

By contrast, second fiddlers seem less important, and others overshadow them.

Adding Harmony

Can you think of Bible characters who played supportive roles?

Andrew called Jesus the Messiah before his brother Peter did (John 1:40-42), but Peter received greater prominence in the early church.

Matthias had to ride the bench for quite a while before he was selected to replace Judas among the 12 apostles. And what about “Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus)”? He was nominated to fill that same role, but Matthias was selected instead of him (Acts 1:21-26). How did it feel to be the one not chosen? There is no indication in Scripture that Joseph Barsabbas whined and grew bitter about being left out.

Aaron played second fiddle to his younger brother Moses. Jonathan was the heir to Saul’s throne, but he recognized his friend David as God’s chosen king. Elisha served as Elijah’s assistant and played a supporting role before inheriting a double portion of the old prophet’s spirit (2 Kings 2:9-15). Barnabas eventually took a secondary role to Paul.

In the Lord’s orchestra not everyone plays first chair, but everyone can add to the harmony.