the sacrament of music in mud season...

This weekend, Lent IV in the Christian tradition, is also the unofficial start of Mud Season in the Berkshires. There's certain to be a "surprise" snow storm still to come in April - there always is - and locals always say: this is such a shock! Nevertheless, spring is starting all around us - and that means MUD before much else. That's a rather culturally appropriate symbol on the way to Easter, don't you think? There's muck and mire to wade through before the beauty and bounty of new life.

Further, if you are truly sacramental in your spirituality, you'll rejoice in the mayhem as much as the miracle because you can't have one without the other. Many of us are unable to trust grace till it heals our hearts. We're anxious and even angry about how little we can actually change, fix, or control till we experience the deep rest and renewal that occurs when we relinquish our illusions of control and rest into the unforced rhythms of God's love. Same for serenity: it comes NOT by taking on more busyness or effort; but by trusting God to be God and accepting just what is ours to contend with. How did Jesus put it? There's already enough worry in each day without adding to it!

So, to celebrate - and incarnate - the sacred nature of mud season: we're hosting a music party at the home of one of 3D's musicians. There will be beer and wine, finger foods, and whatever else guests choose to bring. It is a "by invitation only" affair (but if you want to come, just shoot me a note, ok?) For the past month or so, the band has been working on a variety of reflective songs in addition to some kick ass rockers. I am particularly moved by our take on Leslie Duncan's "Love Song," Anna Nalick's "Breathe," Stevie Nicks' "Landslide," the Wailin; Jenny's "One Voice," and the Doobie Brothers' romp through "Jesus Is Just Alright." It should be a grand little party - and part of the reason is that our commitment is to sharing love through music. There is precious little ego in this band. Tons of willingness to experiment, too as well as an abiding respect and affection for one another - and our guests.

We also believe that the more our culture and politics become brittle, the more we are called to make alternatives flesh. Visible. Audible. Tangible. If you are in need of a pick me up, I hope you'll send me a note and I'll make sure you get the logistics to join us.