Concert and Sacred Pathways

Tonight I went to see the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra play a variety of pieces. Their performance included: Variations on a Theme by Hadyn by Brahms (although it is debated as to whether or not it was really a theme by Hadyn or his pupil), Violin Concerto No. 1 by Prokofiev (performed by Frank Huang, a violin virtuoso), and Symphonic Dances by Rachmaninnoff. The orchestra was really quite fabulous along with guest soloist Huang. I heard some lovely clarinet parts played by my former teacher and also a pretty sweet saxophone solo in the Symphonic Dances. Also, if you're looking for a truly romantic piece, listen to the Prokofiev.

Before bed tonight(and this post) I read part of the book, "Sacred Pathways," by Gary Thomas. It is quite an extraordinary book that tackles a common misconception in Christianity: there is only one way to have a relationship with God. Many times, I think we Christians get the idea that there is only one way to draw closer to God. If you have a quiet time every morning and attend a "reverent" and quiet church service every Sunday then you'll draw closer to God. The thing that is wrong with this as Thomas points out in his book is that there are many pathways to God(he does not however condone not regularly attending church). What may be the correct pathway for one Christian may not be the correct pathway for another Christian. Throughout the book he focuses on many different pathways we take as Christians to worship and praise God using biblical support.

In one section of his book he focuses on the traditionalist. The traditionalist is a person who loves ritual, symbolism, and repitition. What I came to focus on was symbols. Sometimes in church I always felt that symbols could become distracting to me and the congregation. Thomas points out that they're really a great idea(God's idea; of course it is important not to idolize symbols). Something as simple as a cross can remind a person to abstain from a sin that has been troubling them. Everyone has of course seen "WWJD" on bracelets, t-shirts, or bumper stickers. I have a WWJD decal on the back of my car. "What Would Jesus Do" serves as a reminder to exemplify the life Christ lived. One thing that has troubled me is loving others who have opposing opinions with me. This summer I am going to try and find a symbol that reminds me to loves others just as Christ did no matter how hard it may be for me to agree with them.

I encourage anyone else who reads this to find symbols in their life that will help them draw closer to God. I also encourage everyone to read the book, "Sacred Pathways." Through reading the book I have found a greater understanding for other Christians in the way they act and praise God and have found new ways to show praise and adoration towards God.