I don't know whether those of you who wear Apple watches or Fitbits or other trackers of bodily health have ever gotten totally fascinated with the heart monitor like I have.
I cannot wear my Apple watch in our spaces at work as it can transmit.
But I have been wearing it a lot outside of work. And noticing the huge mind-body connection God has built into us.
At rest, I am a pretty normal 60ish bpm (beats per minute).
When Noel and I just walked for half an hour, I got up to 89-90 bpm. Again, expected.
What is totally astonishing is that Sunday, when the choir sang and I sang a solo, I spent the entire service above 100bpm. Right after my solo, I was at 145. So it was like I ran a half marathon in the morning service.
Why is that? Well, after being at Tab for almost 23 years, I have learned that God is holy and that all I am and have is from Him. When I present a gift to Him, like a solo in the morning service, it is not to be from among the torn lambs of my flock or the crumbs on my breakfast table. It needs to be my very best preparation and effort. And, yes, the way God has made us, that sets the adrenaline flowing in a huge way. Fascinating, isn't it?
If you check with other singers and musicians, as well as Pastor and those others who open the Word to us, I think you will hear a similar story. We might even be able to fool man with a half-hearted preparation and presentation, but it is not man we are aiming to please.
I make mistakes all the time but when I meet the Lord in person someday, I want Him to know that I always gave my best effort to the Holy One who redeemed me!
I have read before singing in church or in the choir is linked with longevity and better health. I do think there is a God element that blesses and adds to that also and is backed up by scripture. Thank you for the choir participation and the special music. And keep the increased heart rate exercise going too. We all need it for health!