One of the things that has had a major, huge, really big, massive impact on me is the writing and teaching of a man by the name Rick Warren. Rick wrote a book in the 90's called
The Purpose Driven Church. Most churches that are growing today are doing so because of Rick's insight and wisdom. God has truly used him in the building of the global kingdom. Along with humanitarian efforts and his big church in California, Saddleback, Rick is really a modern day church father. I respect this guy a lot.I visit Saddleback's website a few times a month, just to see what's happening. I usually pull some good ideas and think and write about them. Sometimes, we implement these ideas. I have always wanted to consider myself a good student of churches. I have always really liked challenging the traditioned mindset in the established church. Rick Warren and his church seems to do that.
I am disappointed in myself, though. I am really a bit miffed at one of the most recent visits to the site: not over any moral issue (believe me, this is not a moral iss
ue in my opinion). This Easter, Saddleback Church is renting out the Angel Stadium for their Easter Celebration. They have been around for 30 years now! What a great way to bring together an entire church family. In the celebration, Rick will be talking about the future. Still cool. Now, the kicker (for me): the Jonas Brothers and Kari Jobe are performing.Really, Rick? The Jonas Brothers? I know Rick is not the master puppeteer here, and that he has a team that is very trustworthy. But, the Jonas Brothers? Why not Justin Bieber? Or Miley Cyrus? Everyone could definitely bond over a little Party in the USA. Why does this bother me? Is it just a style thing? Is it because I don't like the Jonas Brothers that much? Normal (church people read secular here) music SHOULD be a part of church culture. Art is all around us. Bringing normal art into the church is a good thing. Make no mistake. My philosophy on this is solid. But, the Jonas Brothers?
Now, I ask myself: Is this something I would consider? Can I get past personal preference in this world of art and faith and cast a vote for their kind of art as a catalyst for faith?
I suppose I wrestle with this personal preference thing. After all, most artists and creatives are a bit (read a lot) self indulgent. We want what we like. I would hope, if pushed to make the best decision to create an event, I wouldn't be so close minded. But, then again, these are just my thoughts. Adding input here is valuable, so what do you think? How should one balance personal preference when leading or creating art in the church? It is a valid thought, I think.
Please don't put comments about how "secular" or "worldly" music shouldn't enter the doors or ears of the church. You will be barking up the wrong tree. If you do that, you're missing the point of this post.
That being said, I have lost no respect for Rick. I hope to one day be as lucky as Casey Graham and hang out with him in a Waffle House. That would be cool.
And, since I mentioned it, and in an effort to promote a good sense of humor, here ya go:
Shout out to YOU Taylor Doolittle and Sam Dowell...
And, vote for Taylor, he is apparently running for school president or something...
