I can’t even tell you how much music moves me. I don’t understand it. It’s mysterious. Why does music evoke such powerful emotions, such strong memories, such stirring passions?
I love the way that my friends and colleagues on our Music Leadership Team, Michael, Job and Abed, describe music. I recently asked them to choose one word to capture their love for music.
Michael chose “inspiration.” As a professional musician, he has stood on stage and seen the rich inspiration that comes from the right note, sung in the right key, in the right moment. Music moves us.
Job chose “fun.” I have never danced like I have danced in Rwanda (well, maybe in Uganda, but that was with Batwa Pygmies and who can resist that?). After a recent community outreach event, it was hard to clear the venue because people were having so much fun praising God and dancing together. Africans know how to dance! And, even though they are probably laughing inside, they tolerate my Mzungu dancing as well—so much fun for all!
Abed chose “motivation.” Africans are motivated by music. When life is challenging, the right song can lift your spirits—and your eyes—toward Heaven! Music can motivate us to deepen our walk with God, to remind us to stay focused on His priorities and to lead us into sweet seasons of worship. As the author of Hebrews wrote, “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; in the assembly I will sing your praises”(Hebrews 2:12).
Wherever you find yourself in the world today, I pray that you will find music to serve as the soundtrack of your life, a score that leads you toward God, with bits of inspiration, fun and motivation energizing each step you take!
(Just for fun: If you want to watch short videos of our students singing and dancing with Abed, Michael and Job last Friday click here and here.)