audience of One

A midnight mist vaguely obscured the headlights of passing traffic. Troubled sleep found my eyes wide open, staring into nothingness. In the corner stood an old piano, dust covered keys echoing memories of creativity too far removed from my conscience. Family photos and gathered trinkets hid scraps of paper, church bulletins and fast-food napkins; canvases encompassing random inspiration, prose for another day. Many artists harbor such collections, sadly forgotten, waiting for life to slow so their muse may breathe. Reaching for the lamp as to not awaken the household, papers scattered across the keys onto the floor. Fumbling for some semblance of organization, a note caught my eye, a decade old lyric where some particular failure had driven my pen with a longing for redemption. The impetus for this collection had long since been forgiven and forgotten (Thank You Jesus), yet since then, other stumbles had taken their place. Feeling convicted, I recalled King David was fallible yet still found favor in the eyes of God; as close to and as far from God as any of us may ever be.

God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ Acts 13:22

Oh, to seek so fervently the Almighty, that He would recognize me as a man after His own heart, let alone consider me at all.

Have mercy upon me, O God, According to Your loving kindness; According to the multitude of Your tender mercies, Blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin. … Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:1-2, 10- NKJV

Tear-stained papers in hand taught that some words are not meant for the next great novel or to be read by millions, but simply to be consumed by the heart of the author, to be cleansed and lifted by the Heart of the True Author. Perhaps these words may never reach what the world would consider a “significant” audience, but simply an audience of One.

May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 – NIV

Amen …

If these words have touched your heart, reach out to me at John@LiftedKeys.com and continue the conversation. I would love to know where and in what way God has guided His words through my pen.