In the current issue of the Christian Chronicle, there is a two-page advertisement concerning a cappella music. The ad is presented by a group who identifies themselves as “younger ministers under the age of 55” who are concerned about the growing threat of instrumental music in the Churches of Christ.
I have so much to say about this ad but I think Mike Cope says it best when he writes,
“The world is disoriented, hurting, and lost. God is seeking to restore and repair what’s been broken. And someone is paying for a two-page ad in the Chronicle for this?”
My thoughts exactly.
As a youth minister I’m dealing with students who are disoriented and confused about who they are and struggle with questions and doubts about whether or not God really cares about them. I meet students and families who are hurting because of loss or because of sin. Turn on the news and watch as students are harassed or monks are shot dead in the street or entire ethnic groups are obliterated and you don’t even get a glimpse at just how lost this world is.
We are desperate for God’s healing and grace and yet… this ad.
I am not saying that this issue shouldn’t be discussed. I’m not dismissing deeply held beliefs on either side of the aisle.
I just want us to put as much time and energy in promulgating the gospel message of Jesus Christ as we do in pointing our fingers at each other and devouring one another.
I am not ashamed of the gospel. However, I am more than a little ashamed of that ad.
Ran across you over at Mike Cope’s… Love what you have going on over here! Always nice to bump into a fellow “Heroes” fan, too.
Your “about” page is very cool. I’ve never been too into U2 but after seeing those lyrics, I think I need to give Bono a try, or at least read the book.
And speaking of books, your list of “on your desk” has some really interesting stuff on there. I think my hold request list at the library just got longer (assuming my library can get a hold of some of that stuff).
Thanks Karen and Welcome!
“A cappella music is safe”
found this on foracappella.org. I must have missed the part of the Bible where it says my faith was supposed to be safe. Hope all is well with you.
Kratzer,
That phrase caught my eye too. No joke, I have been on this thing since I saw it last Wednesday. I am so tired of being known for what we’re against.
I hope that in my time spent with you I pointed you in the direction of Jesus more than in the direction of tradition.
Hope all is well with you brother!