We had our annual Randy Lawson Memorial Concert last night at PCC. There was fun along the way, (including some bearded bluegrass dudes singing "Man of Constant Sorrow") some great original music (Seth Brooks and Mariah's Bedroom), songs that celebrated the joys and challenges of simply being human ("Show Me What I'm Looking For" and most of the MB set) and a touching tribute to honor the life of Randy Lawson.
Towards the end, though, there was a subtle shift in focus. Lindsay spoke briefly about the reason why we were there. Very pointedly, she stated this fact: "We believe in Jesus." And from that point forward, the songs we sang pointed directly towards heaven; songs based on scripture, filled with declarations of worship and reverence. At that moment, the evening ceased to be about mere entertainment and good music. It became something more. The crowd stood and together - both those on the stage and those on the floor - we were as one, letting the music carry our praise.
This was intentional.
There are some who argue for the separation of musical styles. Some folks say that there is no place in the church for music that does not talk clearly about Biblical themes, about Jesus and God and salvation. Some say that the song selection for a concert like we presented last night dishonors the gospel and our God.
I beg to differ. Actually, I strongly, vehemently disagree. I believe that all music can be redemptive. I believe that as humans cry out for clarity, salvation and purpose, the melody and rhythm of those cries are most easily communicated in art - specifically for us, in song. Consider these words:
"It's too late tonight/to drag the past out into the light
We're one but we're not the same/we get to carry each other, carry each other..."
That statement is basic to all human existence and interaction. It reflects a common understanding that is also Biblical - we are better together, we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. That lyric is not, by any definition, from a "worship song" - but it reflects our hearts and helps us to open up to our own condition. Music can soften us so that the Spirit can move, regardless of the genre or the label we choose - or even the intentions of the writer.
On a night like last night, the tenderizing genius of talented songwriters was evident - from bands like U2, Natalie Merchant, Carolina Liar and - closer to home - songwriters like Seth Brooks and Paul Myers. These artists who offer their stories and experiences to the world give us a gift, the ability to open our hearts. They sing about a life that we can relate to, experiences that are universal and everyone's search for meaning and purpose. They acknowledge a power and force greater than ourselves. They allow us to journey with them.
At our concert, the various songs led us through celebration, smiles and even sheer entertainment to a place of transformation and redemption.
Last night, there were people on their knees in worship, overwhelmed by the inexplicable presence of God. I know - I was one of them. And I know that I was not the only one.
We did not celebrate ourselves last night. We did not celebrate a man. We celebrated the amazing, awesome, incomprehensible power of a God who did whatever it took to demonstrate his love for us. We thanked Him for it, and we felt His presence with us.
Your comments are welcome, especially if you attended the concert - on Facebook or at bethbrawley{dot}com.
