I think there is so much wisdom in the words of this video (albeit a Visa commercial):
Sometimes, you've just got to do things "backwards" in order to move things forward.
So true.
The first time I really recognized the truth of this idea was when I noticed people getting upset about the volume and contemporary-ness of the worship music at Menlo Pres Church. The outraged offendees just could not believe that the church would condone, or even allow, such dilinquent displays of worship.
I want to say to them..."Seriously? What do you think church is about? I can tell you one thing. Church isn't about you. Church is about the people not in this room. And, if bringing those people into this place means that you have to go...then, so be it. Because, guess what: You're already saved...and praise the Lord for that! But, we can't stop there. And, if it means the church has got to do a few things that look a little 'backward' to you in order to move things forward and outward to the rest of the world in order to expand God's kingdom...then, that's what's going to have to happen."
We need to fosbury flop a thing or two in today's world, don't you think?
We'd live in a different world if everyone (myself included) lived life with this mentality. Thanks for the reminder, Visa.
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3 comments:
Any thoughts...
...about this idea surrounding the Church?
...or other examples of "backwards" thinking or practices that are, or are not, moving us forward?
It's interesting that people would be so "insensed" at the notion of new music somehow being inappropriate. Far too many people appropriate the church and its traditions for themselves without considering its wider mission. People seem to often miss the message that it's not "about you," but rather, it is "about us."
I'm not a huge fan of the majority of contemporary worship songs, but it has nothing to do with whether I consider them well-suited or not. I simply elect to usually "skip" that part of the service and come in after opening worship. I would never deny others the opportunity to enjoy contemporary worship if it furthers their engagement with the Word simply because it doesn't suit my needs.
The antithetical irony associated with the perspective of those that complain about how "their Christianity" is being poisoned by contemporary worship is just too rich to not chuckle.
Nice Jess...I guess I had seen this when I told you this morning I hadn't - I guess I just didn't read the thoughts after...
Nice work, I like the analogy - You are a wise young lady...keep it coming, this will be a fun blog for you & for us, your readers!
Good to see you today,
juice
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