Listen Up

"To me, our music is like Jamaican stuff - if they can't hear it, they're not supposed to hear it. It's not for them if they can't understand it." 
              - ​Joe Strummer of The Clash

I have a bunch of great friends who love sending me links to new music. Their recommendations cover everything from folk to funk, country, and punk. Most of the time, their picks are a pleasant surprise - a fun jazz piece to listen to, an easy pop song to share with others.

​But occasionally, there are some suggestions that just miss the mark. That’s okay with me.

Music is a deeply personal experience, and what resonates with me might not work for you. Still, I try to keep an open mind and appreciate the thought behind their recommendations because I know it’s not just about the music; it’s also a way of showing they care and just want to stay connected with me.
 
Beyond our personal tastes, music has this amazing ability to bring us together on a deeper level. It’s a universal language that can bridge cultural, political, and religious divides.

There’s a group of musicians from Israel and Palestine who meet weekly to jam together. For years, they’ve used their music to foster peace and understanding between their communities, demonstrating that music can unite even amidst wars and conflict.
 
On July 4, 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono sang, “All I am saying is give peace a chance.” It was a protest psalm of sorts. Although it had no religious overtones, it’s hard not to hear Jesus singing, “Blessed are the Peacemakers for they will be called children of God.” 

That’s the power of music. It can evoke deep and communicate profound emotions (often without words). It’s no wonder we use it for worship and celebration.
 
So, the next time a friend shares a song with you, take a moment to appreciate their gesture and enjoy the chance to connect through their passion for music. A

​nd take the opportunity to lift up your heart to God and be grateful for the great soundtrack (and friends) that help us get through life’s ups and downs, one beat at a time.