Jesus, the Alpha and the Omega
Seems like the state of Ohio produces more than its fair share of great musicians. Perhaps the long cold winters yield long practice sessions as they sit around the fire, waiting for spring.
This is a recent concert photo of Rick Derringer, who passed into eternity a few days ago. If you will look at his strumming hand, at his fingertips is an unusual design. It's meant to honor our Lord, who truly is the first and last. And only, I might add. Do you see the Greek letters?
Why would I post this photo? Because, I admire anyone who attempts to honor God in what they do... in the real world. Not just "in church". And I am reminded of God's intention for elders (Christian seniors) to lead the churches and to care for the younger ones in particular. A simple and natural arrangement.
When Rick was 9 years old his caring father took him over to the Gibson guitar factory in Kalamazoo. Upon walking in, he was met with two guitars in a glass case... These super rare guitars were called the "Guitars of the Future". An Exporer model and a Flying V. As fate would have it, years later Rick would own one them himself. Purchased for $1500. Later sold for $15,000. Then sold to the next owner for $150,000.
But that's not the point. The point is that every child is precious in God's sight and is a prodigy at something if given a chance and given the encouragement to succeed. Brother, uncle, father, neighbor, friend - are you thoughtfully engaged in this joyful mentoring task? Or will you leave it to others?
Trust me, there are not enough interested "clergy" or "counsellors" or "therapists" to cover it. Furthermore, these are all paid agents - which greatly dilutes their best efforts.
Even Jesus himself is not going to step in and do it. Instead he warns us that if we are stumbling blocks to the little ones who believe in Him, we would be better off dead. So, this is a big deal.
To see Rick swapping licks with another Christian brother playing a saxophone, go here. At the 4 minute mark. You might recognize the band's drummer. Or Rick playing, more than 50 years ago, high intensity music which might remind you of those Old Testament passages where the saints "played their instruments with all their might" or "danced with all their might." :)