In the Greater Nashville area, probably due to the country music scene, the growing contemporary Christian music scene, and several other major industries, there’s an unfortunate high level of cynicism towards and in the church throughout many a session player, singer, studio head, engineer, etc. Like me, several have also been been jaded by things/people they’ve experienced in the “church” throughout the years. I’m working through my “jaded-ness”, gratefully. As an adult looking back on my years of experiencing church life as a pastor’s son, being on staff at several churches, as well as traveling the country for Integrity Music (for events, conferences, etc.), I’ve certainly had my share of the many a sundry of worship styles available today.
Upon the announcement of me leaving Integrity Music for Nashville some 4.5 years ago, I was stopped shortly thereafter in the parking lot by one of the company label heads. He said, “Luke, so you’re heading for Nashville. I lived there for sometime, so let me give you some advice. Make sure to find and cultivate friendships and connections outside the music industry. The industry there can pull you down, if you allow it.” Needless to say, upon my deep respect and admiration of this gentlemen, I heeded his words. And, I am so glad I did. My personal and quiet mission has been to be “salt and light” to all I come in contact with. I love Greater Nashville and its people – truly.
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” ~ Matthew 5:13-16 NIV
Living and working in Nashville has sharpened and heightened my awareness of the amazing diversity that is existing within the Kingdom of God. Whether you’re willing to admit it or not, we all have God “in a box”. What I’m hoping is, my “box” has at least gotten larger over the past several years. Do I still find myself putting my default parameters on how God is to respond and operate to things, yes – but, I’m finding I’m quicker to realize HE is much bigger than me or my immediate circle. The “kingdom” of God is much, much bigger than I realized as a child or young man. Many times, I believe we find ourselves in our own Christian “clicks” (i.e. denomination, small group, church, worship team, etc.) and believing that God is agreeing with us when we say (or at least sub-consciously think), “It’s our way or the highway”. Meaning, we get so engrossed into thinking our way of thinking and living is THE way of reaching Heaven.
Are you over-defending the castle where you reside? Are you keeping the draw bridge up at the moat, allowing the crocodiles (“religion” and the “enemy”) to chomp up any who should look, act or believe differently than you? The Kingdom of God is for all who will believe! The “kingdom” of God is a place of comfort, solace, strength and life — not a place of sadness, confusion, alienation and death.
Christ made His point clear through this poignant event: “People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.“ And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.” ~ Mark 10:13-16 NIV
The Kingdom of God is for all who will humbly approach it’s gates and confess his/her faults to the King and sincerely allow Him to be Lord over ALL. Scripture says, “The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” (Acts 16:29-30 NIV) It is that simple.
Yes, we are “warriors” in this Heavenly Kingdom and we are to fight to honor it and all it represents, but God’s Word will do the true battle for us. Our defensive words and walking through life with blinders on will not draw others to God’s kingdom. “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 NIV)
So, consider this today… Are you over-defending the castle? Consider those you see in traffic, the person in the cubicle next to you, the boss or upper management down the hall, the distant relatives you’ve chosen not to speak to, etc. Deep down, they’re probably longing to enter the Kingdom, but have you kept the draw bridge up too tightly?
Luke Gambill 