2005-05-19 - The Reckless Pursuit of Excellence

Phil 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (KJV) "i want you to flow from the pen, bow and brush" A powerful thought brilliantly stated. The more we begin to scratch the surface of understanding the awesome love of God and depth His sacrifice to buy back a fallen race, each individually, from the slave market of sin and death, the more we see the symbols in the Painting, or the subtle shifts of the Symphony. The more that love becomes infused into us the more we are able to love those who don't love us, or the un-lovely. We begin to see people, with all of their frustrations, rudenesses and weakness and even hatred, as someone for whom Jesus Christ died to save. We begin to see our own grave depravity and desperate need of a Savior. There is another very powerful idea in these carefully crafted lyrics we can take away. There are very expressive phrases - "the scent of an unfound bloom" - that we can quickly capture with and may even bring a very tangible memory to us. They are also words that a non-Christian can identify clearly. There are no buzzwords that we as Christians pass around - no code, no exclusive club catch phrases. Anyone can clearly catch the images and expression of the author's impressions of God and his relationship, and his dependence on God in his songwriting - where a theme is given and it calls to him to weave the note in between. And finally, we reach the chorus. The clear explanation of the call of God on a life. The author feels the call to write and sing music knowing his talents belong to his Lord, with a compelling force that will allow him to "do nothing else" with the same satisfaction or joy that obedience to the call gives. One thing a few of us here say is this: We want the message to be from God. We only get to hold the pen. We want God to flow from our pens and keyboards. This is our call, to share the things we have learned and truth we see in everyday life with anyone who will take the time to read. We get maybe ten minutes of your day. We must be clear and concise in expressing what has been placed on our hearts for you. What is your call? I urge you to speak simply and clearly in that call. This is especially true when speaking with those who do not know Jesus as Savior. Many of the phrases we use as believers use require explanation and can create a feeling of confusion or of being excluded. Find these powerful ideas in your music, or reading, or whatever your hobby or interest may be. Think on these things. Store them up for the harder times keep to your focus more positive, and learn to express them in your words and in your actions.

Melodies of You Sixpence None the Richer You're a painting with symbols deep, symphony Soft as it shifts from dark beneath A poem that flows, caressing my skin In all of these things you reside and i Want you flow from the pen, bow and brush With paper and string, and canvas tight With ink in the air, to dust your light? From morning to the black of night Chorus This is my call I belong to you This is my call to sing the melodies of you This is my call I can do nothing else I can do nothing else You're the scent of an unfound bloom A simple tune I only write variations to sooth the mood A drink that will knock me down to the floor A key that will unlock the door Where I hear a voice sing familiar themes Then beckons me weave notes in between A tap and a string, a bow and a glass You pour me till the day has passed.... Chorus Written by Matt Slocum Sixpence None the Richer - Divine Discontent Melodies of You © Squint Entertainment 2002 ISBN: 5550063506

Grace & Peace,
Mike

jmhoskins@gmail.com
http://www.cfdevotionals.org
http://www.peacewithgod.net

All verses are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

2014-10-30