and we shall SING!

The idea of a 'spiritual idiolect' (as written of by Connie Rossini) is one I find personally intriguing.  I say this as a person whose vocal accent has been formed by such varying things - where I've lived, teachers in my earliest years, family, friends, and numerous et ceteras - that often people cannot tell what part of the US I hail from.  Professor Henry Higgins would surely find a challenge in me.

I now find myself comparing my blend of regional accents to my personal mixture of spiritual influences.  I am thankful that Scripture is primary among them.  Also primary is the teaching of the Church.  And then there is that (thank God for it) harmony of notes sounded by saints throughout the centuries.  Each has his or her own voice to add into God's heavenly blend.  I envision these, together, as a grand chorus of praise sounding throughout the Heavens, finding echoes in the praises and actions of those yet on earth.

Over these next days, I hope to look into a sampling of Scriptures, quotes, saints and charisms - particularly (but not limited to) those that form my own 'spiritual idiolect.'  I am intrigued by this fresh way of looking at the heavenly chorus into which I - and you - are invited to blend our 'voices.'

We have been called by God to tune our lives to the music of Heaven.  We hear, we are drawn; we echo.

Each one of us is called to participate.  Each one has a specific, irreplaceable, part to sing.

'There are different gifts but the same Spirit; there are different ministries but the same Lord; there are different works but the same God Who accomplishes all of them in everyone.  To each person the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.'  (1 Corinthians 12:4)

'It is one and the same Spirit Who produces all these gifts, distributing them to each as He wills.'  (1 Corinthians 12:11) 

Painting:  Thomas Webster, A Village Choir