Diane McNary
CBF Director for Mission Support Development
The past few years have been a time of change in my life: leaving my home of almost 20 years to return to the land of my birth; changing my job title and learning a new role within CBF Global Missions; learning how to be a “nana” to my grandchildren and how to be a mom to my adult children; caring for parents as they grow older; taking on leadership roles in my local church.
When my children were very young, I would sing to them as I rocked them. I had a “medley” of songs I would sing through over and over. “Jesus Loves the Little Children,” “Jesus Loves Me,” “O How I Love Jesus” and “There’s Something About That Name.” Music has always held an important place in my life. My parents encouraged me with piano and clarinet lessons. I was invited to join the adult choir at church as an early teen and learned to sing alto sitting by Mrs. Connie. Through music, I can find the words to express what I’m feeling.
During a church retreat in 2024, I was introduced to a song by Rory Noland. “Come to Me” feels like a conversation with God. This song comes to me when I need peace and comfort—like comforting my children when they were little ones. Psalm 46:10a reads: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stop and take time to listen to God as He speaks to you. Maybe you will hear Him through music or scripture or a book you are reading.
Be still.
Prayer
In the quiet, Lord, I come;
Been invited by Your Son.
In the stillness I can hear
Jesus call me near.
Come to me, all you weary and worn.
Come all you heavy hearted.
My beloved child, come away for a while,
And you shall find rest for your soul.
Those refreshing gentle words
Feel like water for my thirst.
With a whisper in my ear
Jesus bids me draw near.
Come to me, all you weary and worn.
Come all you heavy hearted.
My beloved child, come away for a while,
And you shall find rest for your soul.
— (“Come to Me” by Rory Noland)