The Master Luthier
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 NKJV)
It’s sometimes called the most human of instruments, because it has the noble mission of expressing our deepest emotions. It sings in its deep vibrant voice to touch our soul. In the most moving part of a film, a violin or cello often plays to emphasize the emotion portrayed on screen.
High in the Italian Alps is a forest called the Musical Woods. (Il Bosco Che Suona). This is where some of the greatest violins are born. The trees endure a rugged climate. Lorenzo Pellegrini is a forest ranger—who passionately explains how violin trees should grow. He said: “Slowly, slowly, slowly! Up in these mountains, they grow so slowly that sometimes they stop growing altogether. They just gather strength. There are trees up here that are a thousand years old. And there should not be too much water The tree’s heart should stay dry. That gives the best wood. Solid. Enormous resonance!”
The next time you hear the mesmerizing refrain of a violin, remember all that went into it. In like manner, perhaps you are a work in progress, and what you are going through now is just preparation for that magical moment when the curtain opens and the Master lays His bow upon your strings for you to sing your story.
We should remember this when we are going through our own dry seasons. The Master Luthier may be preparing us to become an instrument that will beautifully resonate and can move a listener to tears of joy. [1]
Nothing seems tiresome or painful when you are working for a Master who pays well; who rewards even a cup of cold water given for love of Him. - Saint Dominic Savio
[1] Activated Musical Woods
