January 18, 2025

Jazz music is a fun way to think about the Christian life.  We begin with a trustworthy baseline, a beat, which functions as a constant point of reference to build off of and to fall back onto throughout the duration of the song.  Like the scene at the beginning of the world, the beat is a supportive backdrop that begs for creativity and guarantees that whatever is composed will, in fact, be “good.”  Then the instruments are introduced.  One by one they speak, weaving their sounds together, striking a balance between personal expression and group harmony.  These collaborations, just as in the biblical narrative, have dramatic climaxes and unexpected twists until they finally effect some feeling in the one who listens.  It is here that Christ emerges, proclaiming the sweet song of salvation, in the depths of our souls, reminding us of the beauty and truth that save.  As we commence a new year, let’s take the time to dig up and dust off the old record player.  Let’s not be afraid to jam out to some quality jazz music.  Let’s sway with and enter into the rhythms of eternal life.  Ave Crux, Spes Unica.