There's something unique about family voice. The Gatlin brothers' harmonies aren't just about notes in a scale; the timbre of their voices produces a sound that can be imitated, but not equalled. In my parent's generation, it was the Andrews Sisters and the Mills Brothers, in the 80's it was the Jackson Five. There just aren't many family groups anymore, which is too bad. There no substitute for genetics when it comes to blending voices.
Last evening, I attended a talent night at our local library. My daughter the author was one of those who would be reading excerpts from their writings. She had called me to ask if I would be interested in singing a couple of my songs. "We could sing together," she added. Not having another commitment for the evening, I agreed. Nate and his kids had been over for dinner, so Alex decided to come with Linda and me to check out the talent. People read their stuff, one woman sang a couple songs, our friend Tracy played her flute. When my turn came up. Jessie and I invited Alex to join us, completely impromptu and unrehearsed.
Alex has that unusual ability to hear harmonies. I knew what Jessie could do; we've sung together since she was three. Hearing Alex chime in was amazing! I sang melody, Jessie took high and Alex low harmony; the sound was incredible. I know...you could easily say I'm just bragging on my daughter and granddaughter. You'd be right. But that doesn't preclude that unique sound that comes from family.
The audience was small, but appreciative. I had the unusual blessing of both performing and being in the audience at the same time. Listening to Jess and Alex harmonize was music not only to my ears, but to my soul. Jesus speaks of God as Father, and of us as his children. The Bible says that one day we will join the heavenly choirs of angels and archangels in praise and worship. I suspect that when they first hear the sound of that redeemed and perfected family voice, those same angels will fold their wings and bow in rapt wonder as the divine DNA of Christ himself, entwined in humanity, rings and echoes throughout all Creation in glorious worship of the Most High God.
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