Drop that beat.

"...'But get me a musician!' And then, while the musician was playing, the power of the LORD came on Elisha. And he said, 'Thus says the LORD...'"

(2 Kings 3:15-16a)

We scripture journal at Starbucks every week. Same time. Same location. The make-up of our group changes somewhat, but we're very consistent. And we've notice3d that the musical selections play over the speakers here at this particular Starbucks varies. Like, quite a lot. Most days it's not something we comment on. But occasionally some really strange playlist plays (Patsy Klein and really old school country... or fast-paced techno... or mariachi music, etc.)... and those are the days that it's hard to concentrate while journaling. Not because we don't like the music. It's just that some music is distracting... while other music is calming and soothing, so the writing (and concentrating) comes easier.

Elisha had just taken over as the "top dog" prophet in Israel & Judah (replacing Elijah, his teacher & mentor, who was whisked away to eternity in a chariot of fire!). 3 Kings inquire of Elisha, wanting to know if it's God's will for a battle they'd like to initiate. But before Elisha will seek God's word, he asks for one thing: a musician. Once Elisha had music playing, he was able to connect powerfully with God.

I love music. It has always held a special place in my life. To get amped and excited... to help feel romantic... to mellow out and chill... music has been the soundtrack of much of my life. I have a number of preset playlists on my iPhone. The one that I play most often (in fact, it's playing now as I type this in my office) is my movie theme instrumental soundtracks. I play it whenever I need to concentrate or write (including sermon writing).

Elisha knew the power of music. There's a deep connection with God when a certain type of music is played (hymns and praise music for me). That's why it's still such a powerful part of Sunday worship (when done right). Maybe not for everyone... but definitely for me. May I continue to use music to help me connect to the Holy!