Day 8: Working Together in Harmony Produces Beautiful Music - 31 Days: Marriage Devotionals

Scripture Focus: I urge you then, to make me completely happy by having the same thoughts, sharing the same love, and being one in soul and mind. Philippians 2:2

The house lights flicked twice and then dimmed. Suddenly it was absolutely dark in Symphony Hall. At first we could see nothing at all; gradually we could make out the dim amber glow of the emergency lights above each exit.

Then the stage manager turned on the footlights. We could see a sparkling wood floor and the bases of several instruments. We could see a few music stands. Nothing else. We waited in silence and dim light. Eventually we watched as --- centered in the footlights --- four pairs of black patent leather shoes walked onstage.

The shoes had people in them: Four of the greatest jazz musicians ever born. Yet these four musicians had opted, across their careers, not to “go solo” and succeed as mere individuals. Instead, they had formed a partnership with this goal: Working together in harmony to produce beautiful music.

The group they formed was called the Modern Jazz Quartet. Sitting there in Symphony Hall, we were treated to an amazing, transcendent musical experience. It is a powerful thing when individuals work together for a common goal, sharing as partners instead of striving as individuals. The results --- as we experienced that night --- can be amazing.

Paul tells us in this passage to “have the same thoughts” and to “share the same love.” Note that he does not tell us to “become the same person.” That would be redundant, completely unnecessary, and frankly a bit scary! We don’t need to become the same person; what we need is to work together in harmony. When we do, all those around us can see and hear our love for each other, and can celebrate the music of our marriage.

For your personal reflection:

• Have you learned by experience the amazing power of having the same thoughts, sharing the same love, and becoming soul-mates?
• It’s not about trying to morph yourself into an exact clone of your partner. Instead, it’s about deciding to work together in harmony, moving forward toward the same goals.