Country churches, however, tended to have old pump reed organs which you couldn't tune. The reeds were brass -but still needed cleaning. He trusted me to help him with that job and, again, a small country congregation had an organ worthy of the praise of God.

However, for some instruments, such as the piano, a tuning fork is required. A tuning fork would be essential if ten pianos were to play together and be in tune. Jesus is our 'tuning fork' who brings harmony for Christians who have their eyes on Christ, and amongst churches who make Christ the centre of their life.

Occasionally I bring out my old guitar. I used to play it a lot. Invariably it needs tuning. I can tune it to my pitch pipe, but when I do I can't sing to it! It' s too high. What do I do ? I tune my guitar to my voice. It's easier for me to sing, but nobody can play with me! I have never been able to play with another guitar or piano!

Are you like that? Do you try to stand alone with your own beliefs about God? Do you tune your faith to your own spiritual peculiarities? Or, does the Word of God set the tone in your faith? Are you in tune with Jesus?

As you start a new relationship with your new minister James Hurd this December, I invite you to be intentional about your faith and in tune with Jesus. Get involved and get in tune. Let beautiful harmonies arise as a chorus from your midst as you serve and praise our Lord together! Paul calls this the fruit of the Spirit and truly it is a beautiful sound. "But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. There is no law against such things as these. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have put to death their human nature with all its passions and desires. The Spirit has given us life; he must also control our lives." Galatians 5: 22- 25

James Statham,
Interim Moderator for Parkwood
& Minister of Grace Orleans Presbyterian Church, Ottawa