I am saddened as I ponder the kind of the music many people listen to, especially younger ones. Many artists sing lyrics and produce music videos full of impure words, dances and images. Once in a homily I witnessed smiles and smirks on the faces of young people after mentioning how sinful it is watching MTV.
Not long ago on a warm summer day, I pulled up to a red light and stopped. There was a car to my left, also stopped. It was one of those long red lights that seemed to last forever. Since the windows of both cars were opened, I could hear music blaring from the young man’s car stereo. Sitting next to the driver, who appeared to be a man in his early 20s, was a little boy around 9 to 10 years old. The lyrics were sexually charged and full of profanity. I felt horrible for that little boy. As the car sped away after the light turned green, I was left saddened.
Many upcoming artists have a thirst for fame and fortune while risking their salvation in the process of seeking it. That much of the popular music is rotten should not be a surprise since good and bad music have existed from the beginning of time. Why? Because creation has fallen because of Original Sin, our bodies are no longer properly subject to our souls. We need to cooperate with God’s graces to avoid sin and grow in holiness.
One of the earliest written accounts of bad music was heard by Moses and Joshua after Moses had received the commandments and was returning to the house of Israel on the base of the mountain. The Lord God said to Moses, "Go down; for your people, whom you brought up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves" (Ex 32:7). As He descended and approached the people, he heard music and dancing as the rebellious Israelites were found dancing around the golden calf made by the hands of Moses’ brother Aaron (Ex 32:4, 19).
As for good music, David played the lyre (1 Sam 18:10), the psalms were meant to be sung by the music of the lyre and harp and in heaven we will be singing a new song" (Rev 5:9).
That said, if you are ready to hear some great music, I am excited to invite you to our 8th annual Trumpet Fest Sunday, Feb. 13 at 3 p.m. which will be held at the Pius X High School gym at 6000 "A" Street in Lincoln. Every year Kevin Murray of Murray’s for Men of Stature coordinates this wonderful event. This year’s performers include Mac McCune, Kevin Murray, Barb Schmit, Darryl White, third-grader Maria Pytlik, UNL trumpet studio students and more. Every year I am amazed at the talent and quality of the music. Always a treat is the ‘joint jam session’ at the end. During the event, a hat will be passed for a free-will offering which will help us assist poor and needy individuals and families across the diocese. I hope to see you there for a little dose of ‘good music.’ Thanks for your love for Jesus who lives in the poor and please remember you are in our prayers!
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