Two Journeys, Two Spirits
This weekend, Monic and I travelled south, to the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester.
We journeyed down to enjoy a production of Rob Gardner’s Lamb of God.
For weeks now, I’ve watched several videos of the British Saints’ Symphony Choir and Orchestra rehearsing.
It certainly built a hi-level of expectation on our part, and we weren’t disappointed.
The “Lamb of God” is a powerful oratorio about the final days of Christ’s life from the last Supper through to His Resurrection.
Unlike other choral compositions, it combines orchestral arrangements with both solo and choral performances, creating a distinctive and immersive experience that appeals to people of all faiths.
To fully appreciate the musical, it is helpful to understand the events of the last week of Christ’s life, including His entry to Jerusalem, the Last Supper, Gethsemane, the Betrayal, His Crucifixion and glorious Resurrection.
Hope
Even in the darkest moments of Christ’s life, the musical production communicates hope.
In fact, some of the most impactful spiritual moments of the oratorio came during the number “Here is Hope”, which touched our hearts and moved us to tears.
We both thoroughly enjoyed our evening, and it was fun to catch up with so many old friends.
The train we caught back to our hotel in Chorley was completely full, with standing room only and filled with a contrasting type of revelry all together.
We commented to each other that the vast majority of those on the train were filled with a different kind of spirit.
Opposite experience
Reflecting on the contrast between the sacred, uplifting spirit of the oratorio and the boisterous atmosphere on the train, I couldn’t help but think about the journey of discipleship.
Life often presents us with a choice – do we seek after things that elevate and inspire, or do we allow ourselves to be swept along by the distractions of the world?
Just as the oratorio beautifully depicted Christ’s final days, our own lives are a journey filled with trials, joys, and moments of profound decision.
The music reminded me that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope- through Him.
In our daily walk, are we seeking to fill our lives with the spirit of Christ, or are we merely going along with the noise of the world?
