Rock Band

My cousin was here visiting recently.  Every now and then I would hear him attempting to tap out beats on whatever surface happened to be within arm’s reach.  He also took quite an interest in all the musical instruments I have in my room.  His recent interest in making music can, no doubt, be attributed to his Rock Band video game.  I suspect Rock Band has fooled many people into believing they are bonafide musicians.  Ha.  (My cousin was quickly snatched from that delusion the moment he put his fingers to my keyboard.)  But this, of course, is the appeal of the game!  Anyone can instantly become a superstar musician.  No need to train your hands or learn the theory.  Just follow the colored buttons!

Could it be that we approach our lives as disciples in a similar fashion?  Our church, our parents, our traditions, etc function as colored buttons, and our lives sort of seem to make music.  But we are not, in fact, musicians. I mean, you know, I had my “colored button” days back when I first began living for the Lord.  And I’m thankful for it.  The guidance of my youth pastor, my Christian friends, and my church set me on track and helped me navigate my new life in Christ.  But I guess…if a colored-button, Rock Band faith doesn’t inspire us to become true musicians–training, practicing, learning–then it is just temporary amusement that we take up whenever we feel the urge to be something we are not.

Learn the craft. Learn the teachings.  Learn the life.  Learn Jesus.  Be a true musician.