The Miracle of Christmas

A morning worship service in December consisted almost entirely of a pageant and choral singing by children who had practiced regularly after school since September.  It was a special blessing to us because three of our grandchildren were part of the choir.  Their program caused me to think that we should celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ every day of the year, with Christmas being one great celebration of Jesus’ birth, to include beautiful singing and pageantry like we were experiencing that morning.

The pageant made us aware that there are many that celebrate every possible occasion throughout the year, such as Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Canada Day and their home team’s big winning game of the season.  To them, Christmas means holidays, parties, decorations, bonuses and presents.  Their celebrations don’t include carol singing and going to church, but instead, they centre on festivities, gifts and decorations.

A pageant with enthusiastic singing promotes the Spirit of Christmas, and it was wonderful to see how well the children learned the words to so many songs and sang them so well.  The director too, was appreciated for her devotion and interaction.

“The In-betweeners,” a group of young at heart seniors from our church, organized a trip to Warm Beach, Washington, to view an extravagant display of Christmas lighting.  There were huge scenes of ice-capped mountains.  Swans and angels, were reflected in a pond.  The tallest cherry-pickers possible had been used to set lights and ornaments on the statuesque coniferous trees.  Not another location in the United States has as many lights as this park.  There are millions!

Following our walking tour the dinner was superb and then the theatre afterwards was most enjoyable.  The setting for the play was a country home and their entertainment was in portraying the story of Jesus’ birth.  Mary was played by a corpulent farmer, which made the play humorous and enlightening.  Instruments played were the spoons, a washboard, the violin and guitar.  Their singing was extraordinarily beautiful.

In December, “The Fellowship Singers” choir of which I am a part presented a program of Christmas music to the seniors in Westminster House, and again on a Sunday evening at church.  From Vancouver, The Welsh Men’s Choir, along with a Senior High School choir presented an outstanding evening of singing.  Afterwards, those of us from our small community who attended were invited to a lady’s home for wonderfully prepared party food.

Our home is decorated for Christmas, with new LED lights along the gables, and a Noble Fir in the living room, ornamented with the same delightful ornaments used in our family for many years.  Our daughter and her family are expected for a pre-Christmas dinner and games.

A potluck dinner in the home of our bible study leaders is planned for a week before Christmas, with approximately twenty people, and our small neighborhood community will be having a luncheon for thirty.

As a family event, we attended a play called “Robinson Crusoe,” in White Rock’s Playhouse Theatre.  It had no relation to Christmas other than that it was colorful and its talented participants were dedicated to its presentation.

Another highlight in this season’s entertainment will be our trip into Vancouver to enjoy a musical concert by Denzal Sinclair, a notable jazz singer who we first met at McGill University in Montreal when he performed in his graduating year.  This evening of entertainment is a Christmas gift to us from our daughter and son-in-law.

We will attend the Christmas Eve service at our church.  Then, we will have a family gathering at our daughter and son-in-law’s home.  Christmas day will be celebrated as a family time enjoying a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

In keeping with Christmas celebrations, The Langley Legion Pipe Band to which I belong, is planning a concert in Surrey on New Year’s day.  Harmony was assigned to me and it’s a challenge.

With so many special events that surround the celebration of Christ’s birth, we will not lose sight of this great event as the most fantastic one in the entire history of mankind.  It was the fulfillment of a plan by God, to relate to every one of us personally.  Jesus, God’s own Son, came as a tiny baby.  In humility, He was born in a barn.  When He became a man, He gave His life as payment for our sinfulness, to enable us to have a relationship with God.  Jesus arose to live again, giving more evidence of God’s unfathomable love.  We will not let the trappings of the world cause us to take our eyes off the Savior

Playing in the Rain

Wouldn't it be lovely if every piping engagement was either inside a big acoustically perfect auditorium or outside on a warm sunny day, and we wouldn't have to consider what we’d do if it rained?  To be invited to play for a memorial service outside in November in Canada brings definite thoughts about what to do if it rains or if the weather is expected to be so cold that the fingers won’t manipulate properly on the pipe chanter.  One must also consider the possibility of endangering the pipes to cracking, thus ruining them because of the differential of temperatures, inside and outside the pipes.

Those were precisely the considerations for the day I was scheduled to play for a graveside service on November the 30th and the prediction was for heavy rain.  Preparations were made nevertheless, because the weather can change every half-hour in White Rock, and with fervent prayer, God might be compassionate and eliminate the rain.

Much praying was done in the two weeks beforehand and on that morning, my full piper’s outfit was protected with a clear plastic raincoat with a hood.  The pipes were tuned at the cemetery shortly beforehand and there was time for a walk-through on the path that would lead the family to the graveside of their two deceased brothers.  A small amount of rain was falling when everyone was paraded to the location.  “O Rowan Tree” was the selection.  The service went smoothly, with a sister reading the 23rd Psalm.  Her brother presented eulogies and a prayer. “Amazing Grace” was played and soon everyone was led back to the road with, “When They Ring Those Golden Bells.”  The final hymn, “Safe in the Arms of Jesus,” was long enough to end the service nicely, yet not so long that it would retain everyone in the cold, damp air.

We thank God for allowing the rain to subside long enough for the service to go well, and that the pipes could be an integral part of this family’s precious moments.

Cold weather and rain are elements that make piping difficult, and certain standards have to be set by pipers regarding their ability to say, “No,” for outside services if there is an expectation of inclement weather.  Definitely, pouring rain and temperatures near freezing are not conducive to good piping.  A cold, wet chanter is difficult to play because the fingers slip and cannot cover the holes properly.  The sound will be embarrassingly affected.  If one finds himself or herself in that situation, it is well to have a dry towel handy, to wipe the chanter dry, and it is also well to have kept the hands under one’s armpits to keep the fingers warm.  A fine set of bagpipes can be ruined by severely cold weather.  It is wise not to consider playing outside when the temperature is too uncomfortable to do so.  It’s best for the piper and his pipes.

In general, one is wise not to accept engagements to play outside in cold or rainy weather.  If the pipes must be heard at the graveside and the weather conditions are not suitable for piping, then a recording of the hymns should be played instead.

Thanksgiving in Connecticut

They were long flights between Vancouver BC and Hartford CT, and three hours difference in time requires several days to readjust, going either way, but it’s all well worth the effort.  Our experiences on this Thanksgiving holiday were wonderful.

A good maneuver was to leave home in White Rock about four in the afternoon.  It became our driver’s concern to get us safely to Vancouver over a busy highway, one that turned dark and dazzling in the rain.  After three-quarters of an hour we arrived at the hotel where we would stay overnight.  It was convenient to be close to the airport when having to leave so early.  Our plane was scheduled to take off at 8:20 AM, which meant arising at five.  Considerable snow had fallen during the night, and the plane needed to be de-iced.  We were an hour late taking off.  Transferring in Chicago was convenient.  Our son and grandchildren welcomed us at the Hartford airport after our day of flying,

Thanksgiving was celebrated by having dinner with our son, daughter-in-law and two grandkids, along with the other grandparents, their other daughter and her husband and their two children.  Everyone enjoyed the occasion, especially the delicious turkey with its cranberry sauce, accessories and pumpkin pie.

Our week was delightful, a highlight being an afternoon in Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts.   Houses and businesses dating to the 1700’s had been relocated on this picturesque property.  One could imagine having stepped back in time, to watch the shoemaker, tinsmith, blacksmith and citizens of the town occupied with their various tasks.  The weather was cooperative, making the stroll between buildings quite easy.

Each day was highlighted by something special.  For example, there was the two-mile walk, with many other people through Willimantic.  It was an interfaith project to underwrite the cost of winter heating for poor people in the area.  Our daughter-in-law baked a number of pumpkin pies, which were sold to help the cause.  On Sunday morning, we attended our son’s church.  A country pizza restaurant was a great place for informal family dining.

Our four-year-old grandson demonstrated his bicycling ability without the help of training wheels.  He delighted in speeding, stopping quickly and wearing out the tire.  While he continued his wipeouts, his two-year old sister loved to ride in her stroller.

One can imagine the commitment of parents who have children ages two and four.  They were so happy to be given an evening to forget about kids and enjoy a movie, and afterwards, hear that their kids went to bed easily, and were resting for the next day.

This dad usually fixes a few things and this time he remounted the key and letter holder on the wall, the coat hanging board too, which had just fallen, and the weather strip at the bottom of the mudroom door.  There’s satisfaction in repairing things.

All in all, it was a great week visiting, interacting with our grandchildren and fixing things.  We look forward to another worthwhile visit in the summer.  As for anticipating their visit, we’ll have to wait until the kids are a couple of years older.  Such a long trip would be extremely tiring for them and taxing for their parents.  It is important to maintain a place in the lives of our grandchildren so they will know and love us.  Our closeness will continue with phone conversations.  Fond memories of a great week of Thanksgiving in Connecticut will be long-lasting.

A City of Idols

A long time ago, in a far away place, a city of cultural sophistication called Athens, a man whose name was Paul, was just passing through town.  He noticed to his dismay, that there were many hand-carved figures that were in actuality, gods the people had invented; hand-carved figures made from wood, stone and silver, devised to be worshiped for their supposed benefits.  In case a god had been overlooked, and they would suffer the consequences of not receiving the benefits that particular god could provide, the town’s people made an altar, which they devoted to “the unknown god.”

altar to "the unknown god"

Before long, Paul complimented the townsfolk on their spirituality.  In their central meeting place where they loved to discuss things of interest, some spent almost all their free time, and they were pleased to hear him say they were religious.  However, he was soon telling them that “the unknown god” could now be known, and that the Lord God is the only God to whom all praise is due.  He told them how much they were loved by this 'one and only God.'  The people wanted to know more about the God they had not known, not that they were ready to give up all their gods, but because they loved discussions.  Paul explained that anything that distracts a person from worshiping God, is an idol.

Paul reminded them that God created all things for their benefit and study.  As they observed the intricacies of His creation, they would have no excuse for not believing in only one God as Creator and Sustainer of life.

In our cities and towns, we have many idols too, just as they had idols long ago in Athens.  However, they are not hand-carved figures, but things admired more than God.  What are those idols that are worshiped instead of God?  They are things such as great wealth, extravagant homes and cars, hobbies that consume enormous amounts of time, and collections of exotic artwork.  All are idols depending on the extent to which they are give a more prominent place than God.  Movie actors, actresses, sports people and significant individuals are idolized.  Excessive attention to things like television, possessions and sports, distract a person from praising God.  Even Christian service and church can be idolized as occasions to meet friends, rather than convenient places to worship God.  He deserves our praise for the many abilities He has given us.

Paul explained to the people that God isn’t an image made by man’s design and skill, but that by Him we have our being.  He is so near that we may reach out and touch Him.  He came to prove His love for us, and yet we crucified Him on the cross.  God has power over life and death, and in time He that was crucified will judge us all.  Just as it was long ago, when Paul explained this to the Athenians, some people will sneer while others will want to hear more about God.  Some will believe and others won’t, and they will continue to worship their own gods, which they have designed for themselves.  God the creator of the universe came to earth as a person to whom we can relate in a personal way.  We can observe everything He has created, and it’s all for our benefit.  We need no idols to take the place of God.  We need only to acknowledge and worship Him.

Hallowe'en Invites Our Imaginations

Hallowe’en is an evening of fun, a respite from reality, and a celebration to help anyone imagine that there are actually ghosts, goblins and spirits of people who are deceased.  It is designed to be scary, yet it provides the setting to use one’s imagination.  At one time, Hallowe’en was definitely pagan, but in recent years, it has become an occasion to entertain children and celebrate the congeniality of neighbors, even for those not enthusiastic about witches, devils and werewolves.

Around the neighbourhood of our grandchildren, families demonstrated their excitement by the extravagant way in which their yards and homes were decorated to entertain kids by sights and sounds and by treats to show their love.

Our evening began with a family dinner at the home of our daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren.  Both sets of grandparents were invited.   Our grandchildren are ten, eight and six; ideal ages to dress up in their costumes and pretend to be someone else.  One was a doctor, another Elvis, and the youngest, a pumpkin.  It was a perfect evening to collect bags of candy and chocolates.  We went with our grandkids’ parents to enjoy the excitement and experienced their pleasure as we meandered down the street, meeting many parents who were in costume.  Houses were decorated with spiders, skeletons that moved, gravestones, pumpkins expertly carved, flashing lights and frightening shadows.  The artistry of parents and their desire to make this a memorable event was evident by their originality.

The kids came home laden with so much that one can only imagine what was to be done with the excess.  While so much candy can be injurious to the teeth, one householder gave each kid a huge O Henry bar with a toothbrush taped to it.  That was a thoughtful handout!  Talking about handouts, our young people from White Rock Baptist Church, came with a van and collected food for the local food bank.  

Unfortunately, there are some that think Halloween is their excuse to vandalize.  Some yard decorations needed repair before the big night, and in the city of Vancouver, fireworks were used to wreak destruction on several schools.  In spite of Hallowe’en being a happy event, there are those who react adversely, not realizing they’d have a better time by making it a party occasion.

Though Hallowe’en has its origin in imaginations resting on evil, it has transpired into something good, as a way for kids to dress as various characters, mostly good ones like Spiderman, Cinderella, Elvis, or an animal character.  It’s an evening when neighbors visit happily along the way as they keep an eye on their children, and share a family time with their kids and the grandparents.  The time before bed was one to tell stories about the night and reminisce about Hallowe'ens of the past when our own kids were just like them, hoarse from calling out “trick or treat.”

Activities Galore

This week we received a sports schedule from our daughter.  It contained the activities in which our grandchildren are involved - soccer games and cross-country races both in this city and surrounding areas.  We have been excited to be there to cheer for them.

Last Wednesday, many Christian schools in the vicinity held their cross-country races in Bear Creek Park in Surrey.  Our 10-year-old grandson competed with the grade 5’s in a two-km. race.  Of the hundreds of kids in the park that morning, approximately 175 were in his group.  Soon after they got started, the lad received a bump from behind; something like a domino effect, and he fell, landing on his back, with dozens of kids continuing past him.  Many saw him fall, get up and continue.  I ran to the finish line to photograph the winners.  To my astonishment, the first to come in was our grandson.  He had not only recovered from the fall, but overtook and passed everyone and was well ahead.  Soon, he was relaxed and showed no sign of exertion from having just finished his race.  He received many congratulations, especially from his teacher and classmates.

Our 10-year-old grandson will be competing in the provincial cross-country races in Aldergrove Lake Park in a few days, and will be training in the meantime.  His dad will also be running in a cross-country championship race that morning.

Both our 10-year-old grandson and his 8-year old brother competed in their respective soccer games on Saturday.  The younger lad’s team won their game 7 to 5 in South Surrey Park.  For the 10-year old grandson’s game, we drove to Abbottsford.  It was against boys a year older and ended in a tie.  Our team had been ahead throughout the game, until the opponents scored the final goal with a header.  

We grandparents are making an effort to stay in shape too.  We’ve taken the first two of five lessons on how to play pickle ball.  The sport is new to us, and skill will be acquired with practice.  We used to play badminton, and hope to regain some of that agility.  We also attend fitness classes twice a week and walk briskly almost every day on the forest trails; occasionally it’s along the seashore.

Conviction, Determination & Perseverance

Apostle Paul by Rembrandt 1657

Paul was remarkable.  After reading about his adventures in the Bible one can say, “They were exciting!”  He was well educated, and could speak several languages, yet he experienced a complete conversion from what he had been taught and believed.  His new faith redirected him for the rest of his life.  He was certain it was worth giving his life to tell others and he held tenaciously to his commitment, even though he was subjected to cruel punishment that eventually cost him his life.

It was soon after Jesus was crucified and resurrected from the dead, that those who witnessed the miracle, were spreading the word.  They were known as Christians.  Paul, on the other hand, who had been educated in the Jewish faith which taught that salvation was promised to those who kept a set of rules, undertook to eliminate Christians with a vengeance.  His encounter with Christ the risen Saviour had convinced him to change completely, and he devoted himself to preach salvation by faith in Christ; in that Jesus, being God in the flesh, paid the penalty completely, for the sins of all individuals who believe in God’s forgiveness.

Paul embarked by sea and by foot on a preaching tour over thousands of miles of rough terrain, along with a friend, Barnabas.  Later, it was with others.  They gained many followers and often encountered cruel resistance such as being stoned and left for dead.  With determination, they would gather their strength and reenter the city from which they had been cast out.  Beatings and incarcerations did not deter them from building congregations along the way, and they would return to bolster the faith of loyal followers.

During their travels, Paul wrote many letters to his churches.  They are known today as books in the Bible, namely, Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus and Philemon.  Paul proclaimed that God inspired his writing.  His letters contain words of great wisdom for us today, just as they did for their initial recipients.

Paul was a brave soldier of the cross, a man of brilliance, bravery, compassion, humility and grace.  He found it difficult to decide whether it was better to live close to Jesus on earth, telling others about His saving power, or to go to be with his Lord in Heaven and enjoy His presence.  As a piper, if I were asked to pay tribute to this humble man, I would choose the hymn, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” written by Isaac Watts, and played to the music of Lowell Mason:

1. When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss
And throw contempt on all my pride.

4. Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Being a Part of God's Plan

After having written my last blog, I’ve been waiting for renewed inspiration.  It came after this morning’s wonderful church service.  I realized that Ruby and I had been part of God’s plan though we hadn’t known it at the time.  I would love to tell you about it.

We chose to sit in a row to the side, near the front of the sanctuary and we moved over to enable anyone to sit beside us.  Before long, a couple we had not met before took those seats.  We listened to a well-delivered sermon on the nature of God, so magnificent yet so intimate and loving that He wants to have the kind of relationship with us that a brother would, who loves us.  The congregational singing was extraordinarily fine and soon we noted how beautifully well the man next to us sang and we agreed to introduce ourselves after the service and compliment him.

When the service concluded, we introduced ourselves and learned their names.  We were told this was their first Sunday, and that they recently moved from Toronto.  I said we loved hearing the gentleman sing and suggested that he might even want to come to the choir practice on Monday.  We learned that their furniture was still in storage and they were staying with their son until their condo was ready.  He said he’d been to Nicaragua, which interested me because I had been there on sight-testing missions.  However, that was the extent of our learning about them for the present time.

In the vestibule, we introduced them to several other couples, and then asked if they’d like to stay for a short while and enjoy the coffee fellowship, which they accepted.  Other couples were brought into our conversation and we let them know that this couple was new.  Before long, there was a group talking animatedly, causing them to feel welcome.  I learned from the gentleman that he had just been invited to attend the men’s dinner on Tuesday, and that someone had signed him up.  Then, he asked if we’d introduce them to the pastor.

It only took a moment.  I interrupted the pastor’s conversation with a friend, to ask him if he’d like to meet a new couple.  It was a happy time when he spoke with them.  Ruby and I were overjoyed that our pastor was there to welcome them and that so many people had done the same.

It was only after we were on our way home and were speaking to a lady friend, that I realized God had planned this very timely meeting by having us sit where we did.  Of all the places in the church where we could have sat, He had placed us where we could be next to this dear couple who were in need of new and genuine friends.  We reflected that any of us should be ready and available any time, to be an integral part of God’s plans.

Telling this experience is not to gain personal credit, for it should be natural to welcome newcomers.  God in His magnificence desires to draw individuals to Himself in a loving way, and He used us to fulfill His plans.  How blessed we were to be used by God!
    

A Piper With a Purpose

This week I had the pleasant surprise of receiving an Email letter from a piper, a pastor in New Zealand.  He had searched the web to find especially arranged music for the piper who expects to play in church.  He found that I had published thirteen volumes of suitable music for “The Church Piper,” and he wanted them all.  His special desire has been to specialize in hymns, much to the exclusion of secular music.  He had already begun to transpose and arrange hymns, and knew it would be helpful to find a resource where hymns had already been arranged and could be learned.  In addition, he expected to learn the techniques of transposition and arranging from them.

I explained to him that by moving from Manitoba to British Columbia, I had let Hendersons Ltd., in Michigan, have the whole inventory and that he could order his complete set of music books from them.

I expressed my hope that he would find the satisfaction he desired by specializing in church music and that he would pledge his musicianship towards the glorification of God by doing his finest for whatever occasion he would be invited to play.  It might be in church for call to worship, for a funeral, a wedding, a banquet in which a piper is invited to pipe-in the head table or in a pipe band, coordinating his abilities with other pipers.  Always, it would be with dignity and pride that he would not only be presenting Scotland's kind of music, but assuredly, when playing a hymn, it would be with awareness that God wants him to represent Him well in all he does.

The Scripture reminds us that in everything we do, to do it as for God and not for man.  That is the highest standard, not only for all the music we play, but also for our deportment and the Christian example we set for others to follow.

I explained that one should be proficient in both kinds of music, because each style helps the other in practicing certain finger-work.  One benefits from playing before an audience, from the confidence that it brings, and the ability to maintain good timing and perfection in playing.  Finger dexterity is learned from playing secular music as well as hymns.  The ability to count out time comes from playing more than hymns, and to play such pieces as "The Highland Wedding March" and "Trumpet Tune," is gained from hours of practicing music suitable for competitions.  Practice is always with the intention of improvement for the next occasion.  One becomes able to play well before any audience.

From my experience as a band piper, and through the need to prepare suitable music for church services, my entire repertoire grew.  My mother's urging was to share the church’s beautiful spiritual music with pipers in the world and to introduce them to Christ our Saviour, so their music would be made meaningful too.  In other words, she explained to me, that I should ask pipers how they could expound upon the love of Jesus if they didn't know Him personally.

The greatest essential in becoming proficient in playing church-related music is to have more than a book-knowledge of Christ.  That is, we must know Him, and know Him personally -to be able to talk to Him and have love and respect for Him, knowing He is God.  And yet, because Jesus lived on earth as a Man, we can relate to Him just as His own disciples did.  That’s when one’s piping becomes meaningful and qualifies a piper to do as Jesus instructed us; to go into all the world and teach about the love He has for everyone.

A little later, I received another letter from this piper and he agreed that he would be retaining his teacher and be associated with a pipe band where he could learn the techniques of piping which he could apply to his church piping.  He already knew Jesus Christ in a way that he could speak of Him as a Brother.  With such ambition as his, he will be an outstanding Christian piper in New Zealand.

A Family Weekend

On Friday afternoon, our daughter, her husband and our three grandchildren arrived at our place to pick us up.  The two youngest kids with their pillows were tucked into the furthest row along with their backpacks brimming with stuffed animals, activity books and snacks.  My wife and I took our places beside our oldest grandson in the back seat.  It was a good thing we packed efficiently as there was just enough room and not a smidgen more for the two of us, one small suitcase for us to share, and of course a few homemade goodies Grandma made.  Attached to the back of the vehicle were five bicycles.  We were on our way to Whistler, the most famous ski resort in the world, just a couple of hour’s drive north of Vancouver.  However, being summer, it wasn’t conducive to skiing.  Instead, we’d be seeing our grandkids’ dad Jim, participate in The 5 Peaks Running Series and a 10 km Off -Road Race.  It would have steep mountain climbs, sharp descents, craggy wilderness trails and tremendous views, a race up and down mountain paths with a few hundred others.

Early the next morning, Jim rode the gondola to the peak of Whistler Mountain and joined the mass of 450 athletes.  Not long after, we followed, and enjoyed the spectacular view from 6000 feet above sea level.  At first, we watched them from a distance.  Soon they were racing down the mountainside, passing us seemingly unfazed by the steep alpine terrain with its rough surface.  We made our way to the finishing stretch where the incline required an extra burst of energy by each runner.

Jim came 1st in his age category and 6th overall.  It is absolutely amazing the condition one has to be in to run in this race.  Jim didn't appear to have been running hard all that way, yet he must have been, and it would have been extremely taxing.  He said the first 3 kms was a steady upward climb and he thought he'd quit somewhere along that part of the race, but soon after, he found his second wind.  He has trained every day for years and is lean and muscular.

Rather than return to the Fairmont Whistler Hotel immediately after his race, Jim asked if we’d all like to go for a walk along one of those mountain paths.  Where does he find such energy?  We took a steep and rocky path downwards, which finally led along the edge of a small mountain lake and then turned upward on quite a steep trail.  For most people like us, this would be an exercise in itself, but for Jim, it was like a walk in the park.

Returning to the base of Whistler village, we rode in an exhilarating open-air chair lift.  At the hotel, three pools afforded us a good swim.  One was for kids, another for those of us who like to do lengths, and a hot tub.

We enjoyed our favorite holiday meal at The Old Spaghetti Factory, which was the Manager’s Special, a choice of spaghetti with Mazithra cheese and spaghetti with tomato sauce.  The meal was topped off with Spumoni ice cream.

Accommodation was excellent, and with two big beds in each room, the two boys could stay for one night and their younger sister the next.  Their parents appreciated having their kids safe with grandparents next door.

Our daughter’s family never lacks energy...the 5 bicycles which had been attached to the carrier of their SUV provided excitement, entertainment and exercise early on Sunday.  Breakfast was an extra special meal, with omelets made to order and every culinary delight you could imagine from waffles covered with caramel sauce, to chocolate croissants and fresh fruit.

Riding home on Sunday, after a stroll through the village with an ice cream cone, we continued to enjoy being up in the mountains, appreciating their majesty and height that assures snow in the peaks even in summer.  The Rocky Mountains offer a supreme challenge to athletes whether they come to ski in winter or run a race in summer.  The mountain scenery was superb and the weekend with family was one to remember.

Changed From The Inside

Recently, I have been contemplating how God changes Christians, transforming them to be exemplary in the things they do.  One can accept this kind of transformation and allow God to change him or her from the inside out.  Christians are not to let the outward pattern of the world be their standard for renewal, but allow themselves to undergo a process of metamorphosis, which changes the quality of their lives, beginning from the inside.

Kindness and consideration are qualities God has given us to be used in humility to encourage one another.  We are not to think of ourselves as better than anyone else but to live for one another, building each other up by every good example.  We learn to take a genuine interest in others and try to avoid trouble, knowing it is best to live at peace with everyone.  It is good news that we can live peaceably among others and be able to show genuine kindness, and not react by using evil against evil.

It is God’s position and not ours, to direct punishment where it may be due.  Ours should always be a “respectable response.”  We cannot improve our characteristics by using only our own strength.  Instead, we need the strength of God to enable us to react in a respectful way.  It is good news that we can surrender to God’s strength, and enjoy the renewing of our minds and be good examples to our neighhbours.  It is of special significance that we can overcome evil with good.  As the Scripture says, “I urge you brothers and sisters, …let your bodies be a living sacrifice to God.  This is your reasonable service.”  It is the logical way.  Allow yourselves to be transformed by God so He can lead you into a victorious life.

It is not that we are trying to do our best on our own, to improve ourselves, but that we must allow God to change us from the inside out.  As the example to illustrate this lesson, there is a story I heard along with some other people, of an individual who responded quietly to provocation, then dealt with it in his own way, which most people would consider fair:

A truck driver was about to enjoy his big juicy cheeseburger in a restaurant popular to truckers and other travelers.  No other booths were available when a motorcycle gang entered.  Seeing the trucker sitting alone, one of the gang members demanded that he must give him his booth.  There was no response, so the biker reached out and grabbed the cheeseburger and ate it in spite of the trucker already having taken one bite.

When the biker finished the cheeseburger, the trucker relinquished his table and proceeded to the cashier to pay his bill.  Then, he quietly left.  Later, when the biker was paying his own bill, he commented to the cashier, “He wasn't much of a man, was he!  He didn’t put up an argumemt.”  The cashier responded, “That’s true, and he wasn’t much of a driver either.” “Why do you say that?” he asked, and to which she replied, “He just drove over a whole row of motorcycles."

The reaction from the listeners was spontaneous, as most people would expect.  Everyone laughed, thinking fair punishment had been administered, and the bikers got what they deserved.  That is exactly the point being made.  The listeners were acknowledging that justice had been served.  God however, would not consider it so.  

Christians are ones in whom Jesus makes changes from the inside out and they know that God said, “Vengeance is Mine.”  Scripture tells us that when someone offends you, to turn the other cheek.  Then, there will be no continuation of hostility and the animosity will be forgotten.  Jesus gave us the example in His prayer on the cross:  “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”  That is the way a Christian should respond.  Many people would consider that the trucker acted justly and the bikers received what they deserved.  However, one can imagine the bikers’ reaction, which would be to retaliate.  Getting even would be their obsession.  If just one motorcycle was left to operate or if a car was commandeered to enable a biker to accost the truck driver, he would be in a predicament.  Letting God handle this situation would have been the wise choice.  We would have admired the truck driver if he had acted as a Christian and had driven off carefully, demonstrating how God had changed him from the inside out.

Making New Friends

                                                        
Late last summer we decided to prepare for the years ahead when our large home in which our children were raised, would become an encumbrance.  We would move to British Columbia.  The house sold in a week and after a month, we were looking for a smaller, compact home in BC, not far from our daughter, grandchildren and son-in-law.  For two months we lived in a bed and breakfast suite while we searched for our new home.  It is now where we live, adapting to a style of life that’s new in many ways.

It sounds very simple just to say we moved from Manitoba to British Columbia, but it amounts to much physical and mental strain; -more than most people would realize.  The problems to overcome are the loss of what was familiar, -one’s friends, church, the entire community, organizations, and projects on which one had been working.  Those were anchors that added stability to life and it was necessary to replace them.  But how?  The answer was, by prayer.

Often, I ask our Lord Jesus Christ, to help us to adapt to our new locality in whatever way He will.  He has said, “By prayer, ask anything in My name, believing you will have it, and it shall be given to you.” I have accepted His promise, which is that of God, for Jesus was both God and man, and definitely has power behind His promises.  He has power over both life and death.

Over a period of time, I have been witnessing the answer to my frequent prayers, in that God is enabling me to adapt to our new home and community.  The people in our small community as well as in White Rock Baptist Church, are friendly and welcoming.  We belong to a weekly Bible study group, which is the core of our circle of friends.  Several times, I was invited to play the bagpipes in church, and we look forward to Sunday services to hear a well-prepared sermon and partake in the worship service.  I joined the Seniors’ Choir.  We’ve performed for Christmas and Easter services as well as for those who live in seniors’ residences.  We were both involved in the week of Kids’s Summer Fun.  We like to take bus tours that are offered, to see the country round about where we live and to make new friends.

We’ve attended events of importance to our grandchildren…Science Fair, their Christmas concert, a presentation by school choirs in which our grandchildren had leading parts, their piano and Highland dancing recitals, their block party, as well as their hockey and soccer games.  They’ve been here for sleepovers and we’ve enjoyed family outings together.  The thrill of seeing our grandchildren singing a solo in concert or winning first in a track meet or soccer tournament have been answers to prayer.

Each week, I participate in a pipe band practice, and The Surrey Public Library has been a distinct asset.  Regular walks in the evergreen forests along the multitude of trails are invigorating.

Recently, we took a bus trip to Steveston to tour the Gulf of Georgia Fish Cannery, established in 1894.  It is now a museum.  Periodically, we’ve ridden on the church bus to tour certain sites such as Vancouver’s beautiful parks.  Once, we went to Deep Cove, a quaint, scenic village, where people were swimming and boating.  The mountains and surrounding forests were astoundingly beautiful.

At a picnic, I had the pleasure of conversing with our pastor.  He mentioned that a study showed that the stress level experienced by people who have moved, is equal to that of having undergone a separation, a divorce or death of a spouse and that such persons need the Spirit of God to help them in those enormously stressful times.  I am thankful, as I think about the many ways in which God has helped us to adjust from the familiarity of our home and friends in Winnipeg, to our ability to make new friends and enjoy satisfactions in White Rock British Columbia.  

A poem reminds us that it is Jesus, with whom we walk every day, and that He’s the one who enables us to adapt when we move from familiar surroundings to unfamiliar ones.  We learn from Him, that the closer we walk with God, the less room there is for anything else to come between us.                    

To walk in fellowship with Christ
And sense His love so deep and true
Brings to the soul its highest joy
As nothing in this world can do.
                                               -D. de Haan

Acknowledging a Miracle

In an article I wrote earlier, that miracles still happen today, I told of my own experiences.  Here is one that others experienced recently in White Rock BC, as reported in The Now Newspaper.  A man was saved from drowning at the beach.  Many factors came into play to save him from drowning, and were proof of God’s intervention.

It happened on Sunday afternoon, July 18th, 2010.  A man in his 50’s was quite far out and floundering.  He wife, not so far out as he, was screaming and waving her arms frantically for help.  A young man of 44, sitting on the beach, reacted by discarding his hat, socks, shirt and sunglasses and bolted down the beach and into the ocean.  He told us afterwards that he was saying to himself that he had better do this right, otherwise his wife would be raising their kids on her own.

Pete Pretorius was the person who rescued the man, and he had the presence of mind to take the man’s wrist and turn him around to face away, making him unable to drown his rescuer.  With much effort, Pete towed the nearly drowned man to shore where he was revived and assisted to the family’s vehicle.

It was a miracle to have been saved from drowning, but the circumstances that enabled the rescuer to be present and capable are astounding.  Pete was there to enjoy a sunny afternoon at the beach.  He could have been anywhere at that moment.  He was an athlete, being the 4th fastest in the world in the 400-metre hurdles, with a black belt in taekwondo.  That training helped him to disable the person from complicating the rescue operation.  And one last consideration, is that Pete had cancelled competing in the South African Olympics at that time because of other circumstances.  All of these factors acted together for our lifesaver to be there at the exact moment.  Pete recognizes God's intervention.  I hope the drowning man’s family too, recognizes that saving their dad from drowning was indeed a miracle.    

All Things Bright And Beautiful

One of my friends in The International Fellowship of Christian Pipers and Drummers, a piper who lives in the Netherlands, wrote saying, “I have a question arising from one of The Church Piper music books, page xxxiii of Thanksgiving Hymns, Volume 8, where it says, “Jesus made all things bright and beautiful.”  Would you have meant God made all things bright and beautiful and did you not make an error by saying Jesus made all of these things?”

My reply was to say I appreciated his question, and agree that it could seem like I made an error, but actually, I didn’t.

The first chapter in the book of John points out that God and Jesus is one and the same Person.  Later on, when Jesus left the Holy Spirit with us, the three together, Father, Son and Holy Ghost made up the Trilogy of God.  Some have likened the Trilogy to the several states in which water can exist, namely water, ice and water vapor.  They are all of the same entity.

Scripture says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was with God in the beginning.  Through Him all things were made.”  Additionally it says, “The Word became flesh, and made His dwelling among us, and we have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Jesus is referred to as The Word made flesh, and that He dwelt among people who didn’t realize He was God until He arose from the dead after having been crucified.

The Scripture tells us that Jesus is the “Word” that was there from the beginning.  Consequently, He is God.  Jesus was not only a man, but He is also God.  Who else could take upon Himself the sins of the world, die as a human sacrifice and yet have power over death, to be resurrected and prove to mankind that He has this power?  He was both God and man and He lives in us as the Holy Spirit.  He was there from the beginning and Scripture makes it clear, that “the same was in the beginning with God.  All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made."

That Jesus created all things is given in Colossians 1:15, which says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.  For by Him all things were created; things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things were created by Him and for Him.”

Reading the book of John is a great enlightenment.  Moments spent reading that first chapter have been enjoyable.  Additional reading reinforces the statement that Jesus, being part of the Trilogy, was God, and He created all things bright and beautiful, just as the hymn by that title tell us.  I am thankful for the question, and am pleased to have answered it.  In "Thanksgiving Hymns" I did mean to say that Jesus is God and it is to His credit that all things bright and beautiful were made.

Congratulations Are In Order

I would be remiss if I did not congratulate our Langley Legion Pipes and Drums for their accomplishment in winning two first prizes and one second, in the Squamish British Columbia Highland Games on June 19 2010.  Kevin Sutherland is the pipe major.  This is the band to which I belong since we moved to BC.  I am not claiming honors for myself, but I enjoy being able to say I am affiliated with this accomplished band.  On that Saturday, I was unable to join in the competition because of an invitation that had been given to me weeks earlier, to play for a piano recital in White Rock.

At the band’s practice the following Wednesday, notes by the piping and drumming adjudicators were read and absorbed.  Encouraging comments were very much enjoyed; ones such as “the bass drummer was spot on.”  That must be a Scottish expression.  Another comment that caused pipers to perk up their ears and smile was that their introductory E’s came in simultaneously.  Two trophies stood tall on the table, to be admired as comments were read and discussed.

On a subsequent practice night, members of the legion were having a social.  They invited the pipe band to perform on stage.  I had the pleasure to participate and thus was able to share with the band their exhilaration that came from having been recognized as champions.

On the Saturday that our pipe band won its first prizes, I had the honor of piping nineteen piano students onto the stage of White Rock Baptist Church.  I was asked to play “Highland Cathedral.”  It was a pleasure to lead those who had performed from the vestibule, down the aisle and onto the platform.  I concluded the whole program, having experienced the finest acoustics of any auditorium in which I have ever played.  The sound was absolutely clean and suitable to the selection that could easily be accepted as Scotland’s National Anthem.  I basked in the honors that were being given to those who had magnificently performed, because the student musicians were given a standing ovation for their exceptional skills.  I felt the pipes were also being recognized as an integral part of the program.

A Block Party for the Kids, Installment Three

On Sunday afternoon the block party on a residential street in White Rock BC began when 35 helmeted kids of various ages toured the block on their bikes and entered the park from the top of the knoll next door to where our grandkids live.  Barbecues and tables of food had been set up with salads, desserts and lemonade.  

The stage was a pop-up tent on the street, at the bottom of the slope.  Music from the sound system filled the air.  The hill made a natural amphitheatre and people sat on the grass. Our grandchildren along with other neighborhood kids were scheduled for the program.  Our six-year-old granddaughter danced the Highland fling with her friend.  Her eight-year-old brother, a slender soccer-player, showed off his muscles in a comedy act when he pretended to be a strong man and lifted a dumbbell that he and his dad had labeled 1000 lbs.  Their brother, who is 10, sang a Justin Bieber song with music from a CD.  He was a highlight, smiling throughout his performance.  Other kids in the talent show sang and danced.  One six-year-old actually climbed a tall spruce tree as his contribution.  I was invited to participate by playing a bagpipe selection.  Spontaneously, everyone clapped in unison to “Scotland the Brave.”

With their hands tied behind their backs, and their kids cheering them on, dads competed in the Jell-O eating contest.  It was amusing to see one little fellow devouring the remains from his father’s pie plate.

At dusk, families returned for an outdoor movie and popcorn.  The show was comical and chosen for the kids, now snuggled in sleeping bags and staying warm on this cool evening.  Parents were pleased to know their little guys and girls had fully enjoyed the block party.

Finding an Interesting Book (Installment two)

A person who doesn’t read is no better off than one who can’t, and I am thankful to be one who enjoys reading.  The public library offers a treasure of excellent books.  One that captured my interest is “The Pillars of the Earth,” by Ken Follett.  The story began in 1123 AD.

I am intrigued by the skill of architects and artisans who built English cathedrals in the ancient days when they had to invent their own equipment.  They suffered extreme poverty and hardship, and yet their devotion to the task enabled them to persevere and see the finished result.

At the same time, battles were being fought on foot and horseback, using swords and axes.  Bravery of the fighting men was amazing and the battlefield became littered with the bodies of both men and horses.  Atrocities were committed by ones in leadership because of their sense of power and to show what they could do to punish those who would not comply with their authority.  Pride, greed and immorality were driving forces.  Battles and the destruction of villages, along with their people, were terribly exciting; not for enjoyable reading, because it wasn’t, but because these events were a part of history that can’t be ignored as trivial.  Of personalities, some were admirable, others detestable.

To build a beautiful cathedral required hundreds of people to dig the basement and haul building materials from the quarry and forest.  Money wasn’t available to pay laborers and the monks in charge found a way to employ local citizens without having to pay them.  If they didn’t work, they would burn in the eternal fires of hell and if they volunteered, they were promised eternal life with God.  This was termed penance, or payment to God for their sins.  Most of those poor uneducated people were not able to read and didn’t know that the Bible tells us, “it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  Ephesians 2:9

I admire the author for his ability to describe every situation or architectural design in minute detail, and I appreciated his fine vocabulary.  I began recording new words in my computer, adding their meanings from the dictionary.  I will use them on occasion.

Although the story is fictional, I’d recommend it to friends who have an interest in history, though they must be prepared for situations of cruelty.  One gets the sense of being there and sharing their poverty and labor, besides becoming sympathetic to those people for the misery being imposed upon them by individuals steeped in their own authority.  I’d not recommend the book to immature and sensitive individuals.

I admired Tom the artisan, building his beloved cathedral.  He built it stone by stone, seeing the walls go up and the arches adding beauty and strength to the church according to his design.  I was reminded of a poem referring to each of us a stone used in the building of Christ’s church.  Each is different, but together, we fit in place to make his church secure.

Christ builds his church with different stones
And makes each one secure;
All shapes and sizes fit in place
To make his church endure.
                                                  -Anonymous

A Week's Experiences (Installment one)

It has been an interesting week, and I will share some of the experiences and lessons I’ve learned.

My wife found a newspaper advertisement for a set of nesting tables for sale and she arranged for us to see them.  An elderly couple in a small apartment welcomed us, and it was obvious they were extremely crowded.  Belongings filled their space beyond capacity, much like in a second hand store where nothing is organized.  We were told that this was only part of what all that had to be moved and that the heavier objects had already gone.  Nevertheless, there were still two love seats and several bookshelves, besides books and numerous artifacts.  One was as an elephant tusk carved with five elephants and a tiger.  The couple admitted being very tired.

Glances into the bedroom, washroom, small storage room and the balcony, proved that they had allowed their belongings to rule their lives.  Their task had been left so long that they could barely cope.  If they had regularly condensed their belongings it would have made moving so much easier.  If only they had done it before becoming too old and weary or before having to leave it for someone else!  This was an important lesson for us although we had recently reduced our own belongings before moving to BC from Manitoba.  Apparently, there are various degrees of hoarding.  Some cannot bear to part with familiar objects, while others who are grossly affected, will part with nothing.  A comfortable home can become a difficult place in which to maneuver and be a source of anguish.

Our real treasures on earth are our family and friends, and all the considerate things we can do for others.  Jesus advised us to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also

Jesus Paid It All

Here is one final hymn to conclude my series on notation in 3/4 time.  Please play it as it is written.  In the chorus, the bagpipes articulate the name, Jesus, and proclaim that “Jesus paid it all.”  I love to let my bagpipes speak like that and they can “speak” with great feeling in those words, when one is marching in step with the music.

Some may wonder what is meant by "Jesus Paid it All." It was the sacrifice by Jesus, of His life for us personally, as payment to God for our sins that separate us from God.  Many believe that everyone is assured of going to Heaven as a result; that forgiveness is automatically given to everyone.  That is not exactly what the Scripture tells us.  Individuals have to ask forgiveness personally.  Doing good things is not the answer. We would never know when we did enough.  Newness in our life comes after forgiveness.

After our pastor spoke on the subject, I understood it was for individuals that Jesus gave His life.  It wasn't difficult to understand that everyone sins sometimes in his or her life and God is so Holy that sin is an affront to Him.  It actually separates a person from God.  The pastor told us that there was a time when people sacrificed various animals to God for the sake of asking forgiveness.  An animal or bird substituted for the life of the person asking forgiveness.  Offerings were acceptable to God as if they were offerings of their own lives, because it meant the giving of a life.  Sin is so serious that our own death is the price that should be paid to God for our sinfulness.

God, in His great love, provided an even better Sacrifice for us than animals, in the person of Jesus His Son.  He was both man and God.  He took our place, paying the price for the sins of men and women of that time and even before and after that time because He was God.  He died for you and for me, but we have to acknowledge that He died in our place and thank Him for this wonderful gift.  The gift is the forgiveness of our sins and union with Him in fellowship.  It is a fellowship with the Father and the Son.  Because we have faith that our sins have been forgiven, we are able to enjoy a personal relationship with God. We can come to God any time and He will listen to us.  No longer will our sins cause God's face to be hidden from us.  We have the promise of eternal life besides.

The Bible tells us in 1 John 11:4, 5 that it is recorded that God has given us eternal life and this life is in His Son.  He that has the Son has life and he that doesn't have the Son of God, does not have life.  In other words, the promise of eternal life is assured to those who have accepted Jesus' gift of having paid for their unworthiness.  "Jesus Paid it All."

I hear the Saviour say, thy strength indeed is small,

Child of weakness, watch and pray; find in Me thine all in all.

For nothing good have I where-by Thy grace to claim;

I'll wash my garments white in the blood of Calvary's Lamb,

And when, before the throne, I stand in Him complete,

Jesus died my soul to save, My lips shall still repeat,

"Jesus paid it all."  All to Him I owe;

Sin had left a crimson stain; He washed it white as snow.

If you would like a clearer copy of the music, you may order "Wondrous Love," Vol. 7 of The Church Piper from Henderson's Imports Ltd. in Michigan.

A Problem With Three-Fours, continued

In my last posting, I made reference to the following retreats, which I gladly share with you today, written correctly, with the proper introductory pick-up measures, repeat endings, and beat emphasis.  Enjoy and share freely!

A Problem With Three-Fours

Waltzes are favorites the world over, especially such popular selections as, “The Blue Danube,” “Tales From The Vienna Woods,” and “Wine, Women and Song. ” By their compelling rhythm, they can send a dancing couple twisting and turning most gracefully ’round and about the ballroom dance floor.

What would happen to our sense of rhythm if any of these familiar tunes were altered to shift the beat to the introductory note?  Could a dancing couple continue swirling to the uplifting beat of the 3-quarter note rhythm?  Of course not!  It would cause outright confusion!  Such is absolutely the case with most of our pipe tunes in 3/4 time, namely, retreats.  For some unknown reason, the majority of these tunes have been written as if they had no introduction.  One is to begin playing without any feeling, expression or meaning, simply by attacking the first note of the introduction as if it should have the emphasis of the first beat of the tune, -which it doesn’t.  An instructor will advise his or her students saying, “play the way the notes have been written and don’t question why the bars are where they are.”  One is told, “That is the way composers wrote them, and that’s the way we pipe-majors say these tunes are to be played, regardless of what you think about the inaccuracy.  Besides, many of our band pipers are too old to change the way they’ve been playing!”

Music in three-quarter time includes waltzes, retreats and some hymns.  The most familiar of all hymns in 3/4 time is certainly “Amazing Grace.”  Now, even that beautiful hymn has been adulterated and made to suffer from having been poorly rearranged for pipe bands.  The introductory note has been made the first note of emphasis for the hymn.   One just steps off with the left foot on the first note.  It “shivered my timbers” to see The Black Watch out of step on this hymn.  It is written correctly below.

Settings of well-known retreats written by conscientious regimental pipers for pipe bands have been accepted as standard.  For the sake of accuracy, and to produce the best sounding music, correction should be made in nearly all of these retreats, to make their introductions specific.  There must also be a first and second ending; the first one having a half note and two eighth notes of the introduction, with the second ending having a dotted half note, to finish the tune with three beats.

Consider for example, “The Green Hills of Tyrol,” keeping the words in mind while playing.  Listen as you play the words of the second verse- “Because those green hills are not Highland hills.” The first three words, played by the two introductory notes are an introduction, and this puts the natural emphasis on “green hills,” on the left foot.  In the generally played version of the tune, a piper will be on the right foot for “green,” not the left.  Automatically, the soloist or a whole pipe band is out of step!  This does not produce an acceptable performance and it is quite disconcerting to pipers who know the difference!  In a conversation with a concert trumpet player, he agreed by saying, “It would drive us musicians nuts!”

One should begin “The Green Hills of Tyrol” by playing the introductory notes on the right foot and leading off with the left, on “C.”  This makes a considerable difference in the feeling when playing the tune!  When completing the tune, it’s natural and correct, to hold the last note for 3 beats.  The music is usually written with 2 beats given to the last note, while it is correct to play three, with that last note being the only one in the bar.

The same analysis holds true in starting “When the Battle’s O’er,” and the words can be used as a guide.  From there on, the 3/4 time feeling of the tune falls into place, which causes one to emphasize the beat.  A piper should have the feeling of holding the notes that require emphasis on the left foot.

Several three-four tunes, now my favorites, offered no sense of satisfaction at one time, simply because they were not started correctly and could not be given the correct expression.  “Marche du Petre,” for example, written with one introductory note, actually requires three introductory notes.  They are counted out, “and three and one”  “One” will be the first beat in the bar, the quarter note, “F.”

Other familiar three-fours as examples, should be corrected.  They are, “Heroes of Oosterbeek,” “Castle Dangerous,” “The Dream Valley of Glendaruel,” “Pipe Major J. K. Cairns,” “My Land” and “Balmoral.”  There are many more.  They will sound better and pipers will enjoy them once they are played with these changes in mind.

It would be lovely to have a book “Retreats, Waltzes and Other Three-Fours” to contain corrected music for all 3/4 time tunes written for bagpipes, all neatly standardized for pipe bands.  For now, pipers should be satisfied to have a few of their most familiar and favorite retreats arranged so they can be enjoyed and played compatibly with other bands and within medleys.  Pipers will become mindful of how retreats should be played, and be able to correct the ones with which they are familiar.  It should be noted that the last bar should consist of one note that requires 3 beats and it should not be cut off with only two.

This article’s mission will have been accomplished when both old and new retreat compositions, along with hymns in 3/4 time, are played with the correct “Three-quarter time feel,” and pipers will be marching with emphasis on the left foot.  Other objectives of this Blog, “Piping With A Purpose,” will have been met in the same way.

I encourage you to make the adjustment in playing music in 3/4 time, using introductions where they are intended.  You will enjoy them immensely.

A Whole Band Out Of Step

The official Anthem of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is "God Save The Queen," while "The Flower of Scotland" is Scotland's Unofficial National Anthem, along with "Scotland the Brave."  It commemorates the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.  Other compositions the Scots are inclined to call their National Anthems are, "The Thistle of Scotland," "Highland Cathedral," "Scots Wha Ha'e Wi' Wallace Bled" and "Auld Lang Syne."  The musical arrangement of "The Flower of Scotland" will be addressed in this short article.

A selection accepted as a country's National Anthem should be written as a standard that can be played the same anywhere.  Consequently, the music for "The Flower of Scotland" is being presented in this blog to show how it has been changed from the original and rewritten for pipe bands by Pipe Major J.G. Slattery for The Scots Guards.  Although bands play it this way, it doesn't offer the same satisfying feeling as the arrangement by Roy M.B. Williamson, the composer.  For example, the name "Scotland" is broken with the emphasis falling on 'land' and not on 'Scotland,' which should get the emphasis.  'Scotland' should fall on the left foot.  'Land' should fall on the right foot and get less emphasis.

Notice the notes that should be held for the word 'see' in the line, "When will we see your like again?"  The word 'see' should not be broken as it is in this band arrangement.  The E should be held for three beats.  With three beats, it gives the tune a nice flowing feel, whereas with only two beats, the tune is choppy.  Similarly, the word 'again' should not be cut off as it is in the band arrangement.

When the music was being arranged for "The Church Piper," Vol. 12B, "More Songs of Scotland," permission from the composer was obtained and the bagpipe arrangement followed his direction precisely.  The only correction he made was to ask that the words in the first verse should begin, "Oh flower of Scotland."  His musical composition began with an introduction of three notes with the corresponding words, "Oh flower of."  Thus, the emphasis fell on "Scotland," which has the first note in the bar.  A pipe band will step off with the left foot on "Scotland."

[To view a larger image of the music above, click on it]

In contrast with this, P/M Slattery's music has the band beginning with the introduction of only one note, causing the left foot to fall on "flower."  This puts the right foot on "Scotland."  A musician will have an easier time to play Roy Williamson's arrangement that flows along nicely, than Slattery's that tends to be choppy and out of step.


"The Flower of Scotland" is beautiful for its music and words. It is worthy to be a National Anthem.  It should be played with all its potentiality for the great song that it is.

In Step with the Spirit

In a pipe band we must keep in step with one another and play in unison.  We must listen well to those around us and be aware of the cadence set by the bass drummer for the tune itself.


Applied to life, the Scripture says, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep step with the Spirit."(Galatians 5:25)  In other words, just as we march and play in unison with the band, "walking" in our Christian lives must be such as to keep in step with the Spirit of God.  His Spirit will help our lives to become harmonious.  He will establish the lead by which we are to follow, like following the bass drum, which sets the pace for the band.  (The Pipe Major, who is directly responsible for the rhythm, would already have given instructions to the base drummer, whose responsibility it is, to maintain that cadence)

By not listening to the correct beat, we will have a different cadence  from the band and be off beat and off the tune and even out of step.  That is like straying off life's pathway.  The result is obvious.  We would become lost and have to reconsider our actions and readjust our lives.  "If a man imagines himself to be somebody, when he is nothing, he is deluding himself.  Each man should examine his own conduct for himself; then he can measure his achievement by comparing with himself and not with anyone else." (Galatians 6:3)

That is what we have to do when playing in the band.  If we are not in unison, then we must stop playing and listen.  Soon, we can continue to play, this time in unison.  However, with experience and practice, with confidence and expertise, we will maintain unity with those around us.

To tell if we are walking in step with the Spirit, evidence of the Spirit will dwell in our lives.  The Scripture tells us,, "If the Spirit is the source of our life let the Spirit also direct our course." (Galatians 5:25)  A verse to    contemplate is,

Oh may the life of the Savior flow through us,

Bearing rich fruit by the Spirit within,

And may each longing for selfish enjoyment

Be overcome lest it lead us to sin.

                                                                                      -D. J. DeHann