FEBRUARY 2012

I attended a continuing education event last month about creativity in worship.  Among the things I learned was, “Connect with people’s hearts first, then people will let you connect with their minds.”  We can accomplish that by being more participatory, the creative use of images and music, and providing the opportunity to connect meaningfully with other people. 

                Another way of connecting with people’s hearts is through the use of metaphor.  A metaphor may be described as a vivid comparison that involves symbolism.  Jesus often taught this way, by using what we call“parables”.  For example, Jesus taught that the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed that starts out small but which grows very large. 

The movie industry makes frequent use of metaphors to connect with their audience.  Some of these films become so popular that they are adopted into our culture.  One example is the film Field of Dreams.  The phrase “build it and they will come” is a part of our shared experience.  The farm used in the making of that film has more than 50,000 visitors a year; pilgrims seeking a more tangible connection with the metaphor and the emotions it stirs deep within.

The church can “redeem” these powerful metaphors that connect with people’s hearts, and use them to express a greater truth, or identify the truth that is felt for reasons unknown.For example, “build it and they will come” can become a metaphor for stepping out in faith to accomplish something great.  Our culture then becomes a powerful messenger of God’s truth.

                When people leave worship having felt or experienced the active presence of God, lives are changed.

Pastor Clay Bates