When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin,
the mother returned to her seat and discovered
that the child was missing.  Suddenly, the curtains parted
and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage.

In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard,
innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star."

At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance,
quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy's ear,
"Don't quit.  Keep playing."
 
Then, leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand
and began filling in a bass part.  Soon his right arm reached around 
the other side of the child, and he added a running obbligato.

Together, the old master and the young novice transformed
what could have been a frightening situation into
a wonderfully creative experience.

The audience was so mesmerized that they couldn't recall
what else the great master played.
Only the classic, "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star."
 

 
Perhaps that's the way it is with God.

What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy.
We try our best, but the results aren't always graceful flowing music.
However, with the hand of the Master,
our life's work can truly be beautiful.  

The next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully.

You may hear the voice of the Master whispering in your ear,
"Don't quit.  Keep playing."

May you feel His arms around you and know that His hands are there,
helping you turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces.

Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch
than by the things you acquire.
Touch someone today by passing this message along.

May God bless you and be with you always!

And remember...

Don't quit.
Keep playing.

 
I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me
 [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him
Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].
Philippians 4:13 Amplified