In every class I teach, at some point, I will play Bach’s prelude for cello. It is one of my favorite pieces of music and I have found that it is a good way to introduce Bach to young listeners. I believe it is because this music really speaks to the heart of who Bach…
Tag: Community
Gotta Know When to Hold ‘em
Gotta Know When to Hold ‘em: A Reflection “The Card Players” painted by Paul Cezanne’s by Adam R. Nettesheim “You got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em, know when to walk way, know when to run!” – “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers Plainly said, I see in this painting two gentlemen…
Listening to God’s Word
Gazing at this scene, I long for a simpler time. One without cell phones and touch screens and emails. I can admire these rural people and connect with the idea of coming together as a community to listen to God’s word being read aloud. I can imagine the sound of the quietly ticking clock on…
A Sacrifice of Love
All this month I focused on just one painting of Rogier van der Weyden called “The Seven Sacraments Altarpiece.” I wanted to demonstrate how one painting could provide multiple perspectives and be worthy of extended meditation. I asked several friends of mine to comment on this painting using the following as their guide: Community—Seasons—Sacrament— Sacrifice…
Looking to Christ as Our Healer
All this month, I am focusing on this painting by Rogier van der Weyden called “The Seven Sacraments Altarpiece.” I have asked several friends of mine, who just happen to be women pastors, to comment on this painting using the following as their guide: Community—Seasons—Sacrament— Sacrifice — Cross— Christ I asked them: “Like the…
Living Beneath the Cross
All this month, I am focusing on this painting by Rogier van der Weyden called “The Seven Sacraments Altarpiece.” I have asked several friends of mine, who just happen to be women pastors, to comment on this painting using the following as their guide: Community—Seasons—Sacrament— Sacrifice — Cross— Christ I asked them: “Like the…
Living in Community
This month, as we feel the tensional pull of the reflection of Holy Week and the more joyful celebrations of Easter Sunday, I am particularly drawn to this painting by Rogier van der Weyden called “The Seven Sacraments Altarpiece.” I have asked several friends of mine, who just happen to be women pastors, to comment…
Common Ground
Since our country is based on Christian principals and we know our “Founding Fathers” were praying people, what does that really mean to us today? How can we as modern Americans and representatives in our Christian community strive to fill their shoes? We are all so diverse in our beliefs…how can we find Common Ground with those who are…
The Greatest Story Ever Told: 7 Tips for Christmas Services
Each year at the end of the Fall semester, I always enjoy having my college music students play Christmas carols. I find that you are never to old or to young to enjoy this music and the students really appreciate the break from all the pressures of their final exams. A couple of years ago, however,…
Seeing Others Inside Out
What a wonderful week of Olympic competition we have been able to watch this week from the comfort of our living rooms. I love how this beautiful picture of Jesus has been the backdrop and set the tone throughout the games. I hope you will deeply consider Peter’s post. He is a dear friend of mine…
God Thru the Arts 