MAKING MUSIC

MAKING MUSIC The Greek word for “music” is “sumphonia”. It comes from “syn” (together) and “phone” (sounding). Thus the word literally means “sounding together”. It is found only once in the N.T. Scriptures - Luke 15:25. In this verse we are told that the prodical son was welcomed home with “music” and dancing. The word “symphony” is now a part of the English language and refers to harmonious sounds produced by an orchestra. A large orchestra may have over 100 musicians and still be harmonious. Even more incredible is that this harmony occurs in spite of the fact that each musician will be playing different notes, at different times, with each musician using a different instrument. This blending of diversity is an integral part of music. If all of the musicians played the same note on the same instrument at the same time you would not have a “symphony”. The harmony, of course, will immediately disappear if the musicians disregard the conductor. The human ear instinctively recognizes the difference between a symphony and a cacophony. The analogy between music and Christianity is obvious. We live in a world of diversity. There are different races with different languages and different cultures. Even those of the same race have different jobs, different education, and different life styles. In Christ, however, there is harmony. This harmony occurs, not because we are all alike, but because each “musician” obeys the “Conductor”. Division and disharmony occur when mortals like you and me become “conductors” and attempt to control the actions of others. It is essential that a symphony have only one conductor. God is not the Author of confusion. The Eden He created is a perfect example of unity in diversity. All of the animals of earth were there, as you know, but there was no blood shed. All of God’s creatures ate herbs (Gen. 1:29-30). The lamb had nothing to fear from the lion. The devil is the author of confusion. It is his evil influence that destroyed the beautiful music of God. It is the plan of God to restore this harmony in Christ. God has determined to bring all of the divided elements of heaven and earth under One Head, even Christ (Eph. 1:10). He is the Head of the Body, the Shepherd of the sheep, and the Conductor of the Symphony. We do not write the music or control the conduct of others. God has given this responsibility exclusively to Christ. With this principle in mind let us take another look at the book of Romans. Since Rome was the capital of the world it would naturally be a melting pot of races, creeds, and nationalities. Believers in Rome came from diverse backgrounds with different levels of education and maturity. Some at Rome believed that they could eat all kinds of food while others ate only vegetables. Some considered one day more sacred than another, while others considered every day alike. Paul warned the brethren not to sit in judgement upon someone else's servant. To his own master he stands or falls.” (Rom 14:4) In this passage we learn that it is Christ who died and returned to life for the specific purpose of being Lord both of the dead and the living. Based on this fact Paul reasoned that we have no right to judge or look down upon our brothers (Rom. 14:10). Here are a few thoughts to ponder from the last four chapters of Romans: Ch. 12 - In Christ, we who are many members, form one body. We are to be devoted to one another, honor one another, and live in harmony with one another. Ch. 13 - Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellow man has fulfilled the law. Love does no harm to its neighbor, therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Ch. 14 - Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall. Ch. 15 - We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. Accept one another just a Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. Ch. 16 - Watch out for those who cause divisions, this is contrary to what you have learned. It is God who gives songs in the night, so let us make music that will bring glory to Him!