Leaven with your Latte? Song choice at the Coffee Club

As I write this, I'm sitting in a local cafe and two of my extremely talented friends are playing music here. They've just finished playing a funky, mellow version of Cee Lo Green's “Crazy”. I clapped louder than anyone here, because they nailed it! They took a nice song, put their own creative spin on it, and their performance fit the environment beautifully. They haven't sung about demon worship, or having sex on fire with a prostitute - and they haven't sung “None but Jesus” either. They simply sang songs appropriate for their setting, and the audience appreciated them. The cafe staff loved them, and served them well.

To me, this is a good example of a bunch of musicians (who are Christians) getting out and being “salt and light” in the world (see Matthew 5:13-14). They are using their gifts to bless and to serve their community. My two friends treat people well. They are kind, genuine, and “loving” people. In industries so often filled with jealousy and selfish-ambition, this is quite often a “breath of fresh air”. There are two other things that happen as they go about creating and performing music for the general marketplace: Their world-view naturally leaks into what they produce. Healthy relationships will generally be celebrated more than unhealthy ones for example, and life is enjoyed and celebrated, without the need to be drunk or high. This has a positive, permeating effect on those around them (just like leaven - Matthew 13:33). The other thing is that for them Jesus' promise remains true: “I am with you always”. The presence of God is what marks His people more than any other distinguishing factor. Often people will be left thinking “there's something different about that person”. Christ's character formed in us, and His supernatural presence in and around us, will be a defining factor in our ministries in the world today.

To some, an understanding of all of this will bring a release and a sense of freedom to pursue their craft, and career with a new sense of “calling”. Whatever your craft and vocation is, there is not necessarily a need to use it purely as a vehicle for evangelism, or a message of any sort. I am a big believer in personal evangelism. As an individual, we should aim to be ready and willing to “witness” what we know about Christ to people. However, our craft and vocation is a different matter. Generally, it's a good underlying idea to be brilliant at your craft, in and of itself. If you do feel to share a particular message of any sort (gospel related, or otherwise), go for it. But don't be afraid to simply be great at what you do, and serve people with what you are doing. Of course, be a Christian as you do it... it isn't ideal to promote porn as a part of this process (for example). However, it is not required of you that you promote imagery of Christ in it's place. Do what you do well! And be a great version of yourself while doing it. :-)

Much love.

Thoughts? Opinions? Feel free to respectfully share them in the comments below. :-)