Years ago, while presenting a piano program to senior citizens, I suggested that we have “request time.” A dear woman sitting close to the front asked to hear “Amazing Grace.” Being certain that I could impress her I sat down at the piano and played a rather elaborate, bombastic arrangement of that hymn. When I had finished this arrangement, I asked if there were other requests.

The same woman replied, “I’m still waiting to hear “Amazing Grace!” Humbled, I sat back down at the piano and played a quieter, simpler arrangement. Though I still tried to make it artistic, my primary goal was to be sure my friend heard “Amazing Grace.” When I stood back up, I noticed that the woman who had made the request now had tears in her eyes.

The first time, I had performed. The second time, I had ministered.