The World’s Greatest Violinist

The World’s Greatest Violinist

[Jesus said,] “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:29

There is a legend about the time Jascha Heifetz—one of the world’s most famous violinists—made his triumphant New York debut. Among those in the audience were violinist Mischa Elman and distinguished pianist Joseph Hofmann.

It was a glorious New York evening in the spring, and the concert hall was packed. Many prominent New Yorkers filled the prestigious private boxes.

The concert progressed well, and as usual the audience was spellbound by the genius of Heifetz. As the music continued, Mischa Elman became increasingly fidgety, running his finger around the inside of his collar and mopping at the perspiration on his forehead with a handkerchief. In the pause between two musical selections, he leaned over and whispered to Joseph Hofmann, “Awfully hot in here, isn’t it?”

Hofmann smiled and whispered back, “Not for pianists.”

Jesus, too, made it hot for the proud and haughty people around him. His humble spirit and gentleness drew people to him like metal to a magnet. His popularity grew exponentially as he traveled from place to place proclaiming the Good News. But Jesus’ popularity was viewed as a major threat by the religious establishment, who did not understand that his Kingdom was not a worldly one.

You can imagine the Pharisees and Sadducees listening to Jesus’ words—words that portrayed a life diametrically opposite of theirs—becoming uncomfortable, like Mischa Elman, running their fingers around the necks of their robes and mopping the sweat from their brows. It was hot for them, all right.

But it wasn’t for Jesus’ true disciples—the humble, gentle followers of the gospel of love and peace.

Lord, thank you for the example you are of how to live. Please help me every day to become more like you in every way. Amen.