I had, once again, done something bonehead. In my exuberance, I had run over the feelings of my young friend, Jen. As I sat in the choir loft before communion, I realized what I had done. Visible on her face was the hurt I had caused. I went to her, told her I was sorry I had caused her pain and asked her forgiveness, which she gave me.

Then we rose for communion.

Now the silence, Now the peace, Now the empty hands uplifted.

Now the kneeling, Now the plea, Now the Father's arms in welcome.

Now the hearing, Now the pow'r, Now the vessel brimmed for pouring.

Now the body, Now the blood, Now the joyful celebration.

Now the wedding, Now the songs, Now the heart forgiven leaping.

It was that moment I felt what I knew was just the merest touch of the love God has for me. The Father chose right now, this moment, to reveal how much He loves me, how much I mean to Him. Our Lord came to me at this instant...

...and I was overwhelmed. Even as I tried to continue singing, I knew once again my Lord loved me. More than that, I knew what I felt was only the smallest part of His love.

As I continued to sing....

Now the Spirit's visitation,

Now the Son's epiphany,

Now the Father's blessing.

... tears covered my face. I was aware both of the depth of His love and of His full knowledge of my sins. I knew He knew me, every dark shadow, every hidden action.

He knew...

And still He gave His life for mine. He took the cup and broke the bread that I might live with him forever.

And I knew it...

Now, Now, Now.

Now the Silence

Text by Jaroslav J. Vajda

Tune by Carl F. Schalk