One of the great joys I have had during my first year at Unity of Louisville has been working with our worship team. Our goal from the beginning is to integrate the music, meditation, and message in such a way that each parts builds to the whole in a manner that tells one continuous story. I hear from congregants when we are at our best each part of the service fits the theme and makes the worship service special.

          This has been especially true of my work with Phil, our music director. The worship team creates themes with a synopsis of the lesson months in advance so Phil can work with the song leaders and special music performers to find the right songs that create the foundation of the service. From selecting the right opening hymn to the closing piece of special music Phil goes to great lengths to make sure that the music and the message are compatible. It is frightening, in way, how right on Phil's selections are as if he were able to enter into my mind and pick out the kernel of what I am trying to say.

          When the right song does not seem to come easily Phil and the music team have gone the extra mile and written songs especially for the service theme. This week is one of those special weeks. Phil has a song he has written for Gerry's talk on the Prodigal Son. The words are in your bulletin but for all of you who are unable to make it to the service I am reprinting the words here. Please enjoy and have a blessed week.

You Could Only See Him Shine

(A song for the other brother)

I was always working hard to please you

trying to prove that I was good enough

while my brother wasted everything you gave him

I was only reaching for your love

For your love, for your love

I was only reaching for your love

I never understood why you forgave him

every single time he crossed the line

He didn't seem to care if he hurt you

but you could only see him shine

See him shine, see him shine

you could only see him shine

I guess I didn't recognize compassion

and jealousy was waiting in the wings

to tell a twisted story of betrayal

to break my heart and break it once again

But now I see that it was an illusion

my brother never meant to cause me harm

and if I had that time again, I'd be his best friend

I would run to hold him in my arms

In my arms, in my arms

I would run to hold him in my arms

Now I finally understand why you forgave him

even though it's taken so much time

With no regret and with no blame,

you loved us both the same

and you could only see us shine

See us shine, see us shine

you could only see us shine

See us shine, see us shine

you could only see us shine

                                        2014 Phillip Crowther