I am struck by the mysterious power of music and the way music moves the heart, gives hope, and recalls memories. When moved by a piece of music, I often found myself saying and praying, "How I long to paint like this sounds."

The right song at the right time can bring a deep sense of hope. This happened last week during my dear Aunt Ruth's funeral. Music, especially hymns, were important to her. She strongly requested a specific vocalist sing two of her favorite hymns during her service. When the singer began the first song I began to weep. The song she sang is a key song of mine over the past year. It reflects my quiet time with Jesus and reading the Song of Songs (TPT) I have been going through for more than a year.The song, In the Garden, speaks of a journey of intimacy with God. Last year it made it's way into an art journal along with some verses from the Song of Songs Chapter 2 (TPT). I downloaded In the Garden  from hymnary.org.

I didn't know In the Garden was a favorite of my Aunt Ruth's, but hearing it sung so beautifully brought back some of my sweetest memories spent with my extended family. My Grandfather and his four daughters, my mom at the piano or organ, would sing hymns in harmony. It was a time of unity and joy, complete with smiles and gratitude at the conclusion. My Grandpa would often add his harmonica, and by the look on his face, those times of song seemed to be one of his greatest joys. All this came back because someone beautifully sang a song from my childhood. I appreciate more than ever the gift of singing hymns my mom's family gave me. It makes my heart sing and see pictures.

In the Garden
Author: C. Austin Miles (1913)Tune: GARDEN (Miles)

1 I come to the garden alone,
While the dew is still on the roses;
And the voice I hear, falling on my ear,
The Son of God discloses.

Refrain:
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own,
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

2 He speaks, and the sound of His voice
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing;
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing. [Refrain]

3 I'd stay in the garden with Him
Tho' the night around me be falling;
But He bids me go; thro' the voice of woe,
His voice to me is calling. [Refrain]