By James Dolph
Last weekend, I decided it was time to explore some art museums around the city. As I made my way through the various exhibits, I examined each piece closely, noticing the colors, brush strokes, lighting, shadows and a plethora of other details, all while making sure I read the provided description. Along the way, I noticed many pieces with nothing more than a descriptive title, estimated date, materials and dimensions. No added description of the piece or artist information. What stories lie behind the making of such mysterious works of art?
Stories are the primary tool our brains use to organize memories and make sense of the world around us. There are entire careers dedicated to preserving and telling stories. The Bible itself is a collection of stories that have been passed down for centuries and used in generations of ongoing story-making and storytelling.
This morning you will hear various stories through the art of music. Take note of the stories you hear in each song. The ones you listen to and the ones you sing. Encounter the stories through the music itself, not just the words. The swelling, the fading, the changing notes. Being an expert on music composition is not necessary to understand the stories being told. For stories are not only heard; they are felt.
As you listen and participate this morning, I invite you to hear familiar stories in new ways. Recognize and note if something feels different than it did the last time you encountered it. If there is a more unfamiliar story, notice what grabs your attention. Maybe even talk about it with another person after worship.
Art, and the stories attached, is not created in a vacuum. It is curated at a certain time under certain circumstances and is often directed toward a particular audience. Art tells stories while being created within a story itself.
What stories have you yet to hear? What stories might God be calling you to encounter more closely? What stories might you tell?
Art is embodied.
Music is embodied.
Stories are embodied.
May you feel the presence of God as you engage with the stories told this morning.