As I write this, I’m listening to Beethoven, whose music embodies a soundtrack for life. Often this drama for desire – asking us, what we are desiring, what story we are telling ourselves that we need or must have or do – and the music, as good storytelling does, can lift us up to connect and know ourselves and our Creator more deeply.

Beethoven wrote in one of his letters “Music is the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life.”

To be alive is to be aware of things that we crave, want, need, hope for, and act on. Every time I’ve eaten a freshly picked apple this week (‘tis the season of harvest), I can’t help but think of the story of Adam and Eve and the serpent, one last time. Who do we blame when we make choices that do not bring life? How do we act when we become awake and aware?

In the words of Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”

As a congregation reflecting on the end of a year of ministry, and looking ahead at the virtual Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 7, 2020, I invite you to pray on Maya Angelou’s words, while you listen to this as a prayer of invitation:

Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 – 3.

In Christ’s love,
Rev. Maya Landell

P.S. A BIG Happy Birthday on September 26 to our teammate and communications specialist, Randee Marquez. Throughout this pandemic, ministry would have been impossible without her skills, creativity and commitment to strengthening this ministry in Christ’s name. A big thanks to her, Robert Huff and Peggy Sheffield for their hard work on this year’s Annual Report. Watch for it in your inbox, then read, share and give thanks.

P.P.S. Don’t forget Resonance Worship Sunday night, with the theme “A Season of First.” We will meet on Zoom. There will be some special guests! See you there at 7 pm.