USA East Music BULLETIN - SPRING 2019 - ISSUE 2 | Page 16

WITH ALL MY HEART
By Major Linda B. Lopez, THQ
“Forward, O youth! But first, in true submission,
Bring all thou hast and art to Christ, thy Lord;
Take from His hand His glorious commission,
Rise then, and in His name unsheathe thy
sword.
Hear then our answer:
Lord, lead us on
Fighting nor resting until Thy war is won.”
–The Song Book of The Salvation Army # 864
“Rise Up, O Youth!”
These words resounded as a living
testimony during the 2018 Uruguay Division
Music Camp.
Last December, on a beautiful, sunny,
chilly day, my husband and I arrived at
Carrasco International Airport, Uruguay.
Immediately upon our arrival we were
welcomed by Divisional Commander Major
Eduardo Baigoria. Our first day was a day of
discovery, learning about the culture and
the history of the country. That knowledge
helped us gain admiration and a deeper
appreciation for the people.
Under the guidance of the divisional
leaders, and with the support of the Territorial
Music Director Omar Perez, a fine group of 28
young Salvationists gathered in the capital
city of Montevideo to strengthen their
musical talents, renew their faith, and solidify
their fellowship.
It was an exciting time for the young
people who, for so many months, had been
preparing their hearts and minds for this
gathering. They had come from all around
the country and with one purpose—to
worship the Lord Almighty and to polish their
musical gifts.
From December 6–9, the delegates joined
forces in brass, band, choir, theory, timbrels,
sacred dance, percussion, and worship band.
Soldiers from the Argentina Division assisted
in the leadership of these electives. The
days were long; from early morning to late
evening.
Nonetheless, the young people displayed
an attitude of a self–denial and self–
determination. They were convinced that
what they were doing was all for the glory of
God. They offered their best.
The selected theme for the week was “I
will praise you with all my heart,” based on
Psalm 9:1“I will praise you, O Lord, with all my
heart; I will tell of all your wonders.” Devotions
and Bible studies were under our leadership.
Together, we took a deeper look unto this
Psalm, supported by the life and story of King
16 • USA EAST MUSIC BULLETIN | S P R I N G 2019
David.
Delegates shared their talents and what
they had learned at several community
events: two open–air meetings, a community
festival, and a family worship service at the
Esperanza Home for the Elderly. The ministry
of the band and songster brigade blessed
hundreds of people.
For these talented musicians, music is
their joy amid life’s adversities. They find
hope in the message of salvation that sounds
through each note they blow. There is hope
for a bright future for the musical forces of
The Salvation Army in the Uruguay Division.
Thanks be to God for the lives of these
talented and enthusiastic young soldiers.
Lord, lead us on! ■
W W W. M U S I C . S A CO N N E C T S . O R G