As we come to a finale of this “long and winding road” of Advent this Sunday, some of you might be thinking, “Don’t stop the music!” If that is your sentiment, know that I stand in solidarity with you – as music is a passion of mine. While I know God can’t give all of the gifts to people – I wish I would have received the gift of music (either singing or playing – I’m not picky) instead of only the gift of appreciating music.
For some people, though, music is something that just “sounds nice, it’s good background noise.” For me, it is so much more! People of the Bible used music as a tool to pray and as an outlet to express the whole spectrum of human emotion. This creative expression helps us emotionally and spiritually, offers us direction, and has the ability to articulate thoughts and feelings all while showing us that we aren’t alone.
This series was based on the premise that God is in all things and we have the ability to find sacred in the ordinary and everyday as we theologically reflect on how songs not traditionally found in “Christian music” can point us to God. This Advent, the Beatles songs acted as a soundtrack for the season leading up to Christmas as we were invited to explore creative ways to connect with God and others.
For those who want the beat to go on and continue to explore faith through music – never fear! The teaching theme for *Summer Impact is “Rock of Ages” as a way to enjoy music, express faith, and find community. There is even a community made playlist of 176 songs that you can access through Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2UUurt6 or search “Rock of Ages: Summer Impact 2019.” These songs were submitted to the playlist because people have found divine meaning, hope, and love. Are there unexpected songs that have connected you to God?
May you experience God in unexpected places and ways this Christmas season and into 2019 as you open your eyes (and maybe your ears) to what God is trying to show you.
Peace,
Pastor Kate
Summer Impact – http://hydeparkchurch.org/summer-impact/