Not sure if you watch The Voice on NBC, but Monday night we did and one of the contestants chose to sing “The Old Rugged Cross.”
The performance was amazing and that song brought back many memories from my days in Gridley where “The Old Rugged Cross” was often sung at the MethodistChurch.
The judges on The Voice get to critique each performance. Pharrell Williams a young black man said simply: “To God Be the Glory!” He was referencing the famous hymn by that name and in turn praising the performer for not only lifting up his talent, but also his faith.
Pharrell’s comment stunned me and made me emotional, but more importantly, something important became stuck in my mind. Later my eyes closed not knowing what this was. At 5:01 A.M. God evidently gave up on me figuring this out on my own and awoke me from a deep sleep telling me to connect “To God Be the Glory” and my friend Cheryl Doty.
Many of you know Cheryl. She came to work with me at Steve Sauder Real Estate in 1980. She stayed with me through the founding of Valu-line and into Birch. She now works days at the First Congressional Church.
Cheryl Doty was amazing. She could do anything – punctuate a sentence, spell any and every word and even help solve thorny personnel challenges.
Early in our working together days CD found her way to our church – Emporia’s First United Methodist and more importantly to the choir. Pretty sure Cheryl would tell you that relationship changed her life. Today she also works for our church as Director of Music Ministry.
Her job description must be a long one because it includes singing in the choir, being a regular soloist, leading congressional singing during services, being a member of the Joyful Ringers, our bell choir, directing multiple youth choirs and participating in about a dozen other church activities.
Jeanie Jensen our pastor at the First United Methodist church told me Cheryl is the best music minister she has worked with suggesting “her music opens hearts.” Jeanie explained often after Cheryl sings her message is more easily received.
“To God Be the Glory” aptly describes Cheryl Doty when she is singing. Her face shines, her voice is proud and confident yet her humble nature is evident. Our Lord blessed Cheryl with a wonderful talent which she is willing to share. She is indeed a blessing.
