Silent Harmonies

Chapter 2

A Divine Surprise

Migs woke up early on Saturday morning, the sun's gentle rays filtering through the thin curtains of his boarding house room. Located just beside South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC) in Matanao, Davao del Sur, his modest abode was a sanctuary of peace and routine. The Sabbath, a day of rest and worship for Seventh-day Adventists, was the highlight of his week.

As he stretched and got out of bed, Migs felt a sense of calm wash over him. The Seventh-day Adventist Church observes the Sabbath from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, dedicating this time to rest from secular work and to focus on spiritual matters. It’s a day filled with church services, Bible studies, and fellowship.

Migs began his morning with personal devotion, reading a chapter from the Bible and reflecting on its meaning. He then prepared for church, carefully selecting his best attire—a crisp white shirt, black trousers, and polished shoes. As he tied his tie, his phone buzzed with an incoming call.

"Hello, Jay," Migs answered, recognizing his friend's number.

"Migs, good morning! Ready ka na ba for church?" Jay's voice was unusually excited.

"Oo, halos ready na. Bakit?"

"May surprise ako sa'yo," Jay said, barely containing his excitement. "Ikaw ang kakanta para sa special song mamaya sa divine service."

Migs's eyes widened in surprise. "Ako? Teka, may kasama ba ako or solo?"

"Duet kayo," Jay replied, chuckling. "Kasama mo si Reina, kaibigan ko. Dito kami sa chapel, punta ka na."

With his curiosity piqued, Migs hurried to finish his preparations and headed out the door. The walk to the chapel was short, and soon he found himself greeted by the familiar faces of his choir friends. Jay stood beside a girl Migs hadn’t met before.

"Migs, ito si Reina," Jay introduced, gesturing to the shy girl beside him. "Reina, si Migs."

"Hi," Migs said, offering a warm smile.

"Hello," Reina replied softly, her cheeks tinged with a slight blush. "Nice to meet you."

"Reina has a great voice," Jay continued, giving her a reassuring pat on the back. "She’s not in the choir yet, but she’s thinking about auditioning."

"Magaling daw talaga siya," Karen interjected, joining the group. "Lahat kami agree."

"Excited na ako marinig kayo," Rina added, her eyes sparkling.

With introductions made, they moved to a quieter corner of the chapel to practice their song. Reina’s voice was indeed beautiful—soft yet powerful, with a sincerity that touched Migs deeply. They quickly fell into a harmonious rhythm, their voices blending perfectly.

The divine service that morning was a typical Seventh-day Adventist Sabbath program, starting with Sabbath School—a time for Bible study and discussion—followed by the divine service, which included prayer, scripture reading, and a sermon. The special song was a key part of the service, intended to inspire and uplift the congregation.

When it was their turn to sing, Migs and Reina stood in front of the congregation, their hearts beating in unison. As they sang, Migs felt a connection not just with the music, but with Reina. The congregation responded warmly, their faces reflecting the peace and joy that the song brought.

After the service, Reina approached Migs with a shy smile. "Migs, thank you for singing with me. Gusto mo bang mag-lunch? Sa boarding house ko, kasama sila Rina at Karen."

"Sure, salamat sa invite," Migs replied, genuinely pleased. "Sama ako."

Their walk to Reina’s boarding house was filled with light conversation, and Migs felt a growing sense of camaraderie with his new friends. Reina, Rina, and Karen’s boarding house was cozy and inviting, a place that radiated warmth and friendship.