In Harmony
By Susan Klein
“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to
associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”
Romans 12:16 (NIV)
I have a valued
friend who, among many things, is also my “iron-sharpener.” Recently, we were
engaged in a discussion about “being in harmony” with one another, particularly
with a spouse, and what that looks like. For many, being in harmony can mean
being similar in our thinking, agreeing on major hot-button issues, or even
just looking at things from similar perspectives. If this were the absolute
definition, I would fail at being in harmony with my husband much of the time.
We often view things from opposite perspectives and seldom think the same way.
We are cut from different cloths!
My friend was quick
to point out what harmony looks like in musical terms, which is the simultaneous
blending of different sounds or notes to make chords that render a pleasing
sound. The notes can actually be (and usually are) quite different. Yet, when carefully
considered and chosen, they complement each other in a beautiful way. I’ve come
to appreciate that God, in His infinite sovereignty, has chosen to create all
of us with uniquely different notes. I’d even venture to say He did this
intentionally so that we might be a beautiful sound to His ears. If we all had
the same notes, there would be no harmony at all. It is the careful considering
and blending of those different sounds together that make such beautiful music.
Biblically (as in
the verse above), the word harmony carries the concept of reconciling and of
cultivating peace. It assumes there will be conflicts where there are
differences, but it is when we choose to not let those differences breed
arrogance and conceit that true harmony reigns. When I use my notes (words) to
encourage my husband rather than to tear him down, that is cultivating peace
and resulting in harmony. When my husband chooses to confront me in love over a
conflict, it leads to a harmonious reconciliation of our relationship, with
each other and with God. Even something as simple as overlooking a minor
offense can be harmonious.
It takes thoughtful,
careful and intentional choosing to blend our differences in ways that bring
about true peace and harmony. What a pleasing melody it will be to the One who
created us - - in our uniquely different ways!
GOING
DEEPER:
1. Are you out of tune with anyone
you are close to?
2. What
intentional choices might you make to ensure harmonious interactions with those
who are very different from you?
FURTHER
READING:
Susan is married to Mark, and has two adult children. She enjoys
teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She is
a member of the Peace Team at Oakwood and also co-leads a Wednesday Night
Community small group.
