Aida

When I was a freshman in high school, the band went to New York and I had the privilege of seeing the musical Aida.  I absolutely loved the show and have since listened to the soundtrack approximately 600-700 times.  This is a story I know...or so I thought.

This past Saturday night I was able to learn how mistaken I was when one of our high school students invited us to come see his school's version of the Tony and Grammy award-winning musical.  As it turns out, between several of the songs there are some brief connecting scenes that, surprising enough, have some value.  They enhance the context of these songs I know so well and shape the story in ways I had completely forgotten.

I was delighted to reconsider this saga, contemplating themes of power and oppression, duty and freedom, and our culture's views on love.  The last 654 times I have listened to the soundtrack, I have hardly thought on the issues this show brings to light, preferring instead to be entertained by the pop melodies brought to us by Elton John.

It made me wonder how often I do this with the Bible.  How often do I skip to just my favorite parts of the story, looking to be entertained, rather than wade through the full weight of the gospel story in all its intricate nuances?  I would tell you that I know this story well, but have I forgotten the connecting scenes?

God, please reveal to me the parts of your story I am quick to cut out, that I might more clearly see and ponder your full gospel beauty.