Perspectives

Today I got to play my cello at two services in very different settings. They provide some very interesting points of reflection particularly when I was asked after the second whether I was ministered to even though I was actually playing.(thanks Carny) Strangely I have to say a definite to the second - Yes. Not because the service was twice the length, nor because the congregation were multiracial, nor even a sense people willing to worship. I think I can place the issue key in the message of surrender. It was delivered beautifully and intensely intentionally in an opening video sequence of images, carefully selected songs and hymns, a message passionately delivered with a pastoral focus and communion and prayers. Everything was woven into a beautiful tapestry and I didn't only enjoy myself but was genuinely touched.

I have watched at this very unique BBC new video (here) This is not a CGI, computer generated image. But is genuinely taken from a NASA craft in deep space of the moon circling the earth. The issue is one of perspective. We can never see this from Earth, only from outside its orbit. I don't think I've really ever thought about ministry and being ministered to as a single action. But of course giving and receiving are intensely precious in our lives. We give our lives, our selves, all that we are and receive back even more; a Life in all its fullness.