The Violin and the Redeemer
Fritz Kreisler was one of the greatest violinists the world has ever known. Born in Austria in 1875, his music captivated audiences around the globe. But behind his fame lies a quiet story of redemption—a story not about applause, but about purpose restored.
While traveling, Kreisler discovered a rare, exquisite violin in a shop. Its tone was said to be unmatched, and he knew it was made for more than display—it was made to sing. Yet, he didn’t have the money to buy it. By the time he returned with the funds, the violin had been sold to a private collector.
Kreisler tracked down the new owner and pleaded to purchase it. But the man refused. The instrument was too valuable—he would not part with it.
Before leaving, Kreisler asked, “May I play it once more before it is silent in a case?”
The collector agreed.
As Kreisler began to play, the music soared. It was as if the violin remembered its calling. The collector, moved to tears, whispered,
“I have no right to keep that to myself. Take it, Mr. Kreisler. Let the world hear it again.”
A Picture of Redemption
This is more than a story about a violin—it’s a parable of our own redemption.
We, too, were created with purpose: to reflect the beauty of our Creator. But sin took us off the stage, and we were no longer free. Our lives were bought, not by silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19).
Jesus, like Kreisler, came looking for what was already His—what He made. And He repurchased us so that we could play the music of His grace once again.
This story makes me wonder…
Am I willing to use my precious savings to redeem the things that God loves? God doesn’t bless us with resources simply to place them on a shelf, in a portfolio to grow without impact. He blesses us with wealth so that we can be part of His redemption story, restore the world to its original purpose. Redeeming the social fabric that was broken at the fall. Restoring the environment from the pollution and exploitation. To capitalize businesses that bring flourishing to communities and to live in communion with God, and bring beauty into a broken world.
Reflection Questions
What "music" has God created you to bring into the world?
Are there places in your life where you’ve been put “behind glass,” unused, forgotten, or overlooked?
What does it mean to you that Jesus repurchased you—even though you already belonged to Him by creation?
Who in your life might need you to act as a redeemer—to restore, uplift, or give voice?
