Doves and Recognition

Unity is a powerful force - even though we all have our diverse charactertistics and background...if we belong to Christ, then we find great power as we seek to work together for the sake of the gospel:

From Galatians 3:
26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

1st Corinthians chapter 12 says:
4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.

Last night, I had a chance to observe the unity of the spirit of Christ in the midst of diversity.   There are varieties of musical styles represented in Christian music, and the 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards recognized quality and acheivement in a wide range of categories - from Pop/Contemporary to Inspiration, Rap & Hip-Hop to Traditional Gospel, Southern Gospel to Bluegrass.   And, the way that the overall program came together - which will be broadcast on the Gospel Music Channel this Tuesday night at 7:00 and 9:00 - really demonstrated how, no matter what our musical preferences are, God can use all of them, and sometimes can bring a glorious result as we mix them together.   Consider the opening number by Crystal Lewis, Yolanda Adams, and Angie Stone, who sang a song about God's help being on the way, which segued into Dottie Rambo's classic "I Go to the Rock", led by Karen Peck.

Or maybe the tribute to Russ Taff, with Jason Crabb delivering the gospel classic, "Ain't No Grave", Donnie McClurkin with "Praise the Lord" and Wes Morgan's climactic "We Will Stand".

The Isaacs received a very enthusiastic reception with their bluegrass-oriented performance, but so did LeCrae's exuberant rap and hip-hop performance.   And, the piece of the show devoted to music inspired by "The Story" featuring Michael Tait of DCTalk and the Newsboys, Todd Smith of Selah, Blanca of Group1Crew, and hip-hop artist Eddy Puyol, also known as "Rawsrvnt"  was a spectacular demonstration of how a variety of musical styles and influences can be used of God to bring glory to Him.

I think that recognition can be powerful and encouraging - and awards shows, such as the Doves, can showcase some high-profile talent, but I think it's important to be mindful to recognize those with whom we personally come in contact.   Perhaps it can be for someone who waits on you at a restaurant or who helps you at a department store, maybe those who are in public service, such as law enforcement or the military.  Maybe it's those with whom you serve in a local volunteer organization or at your church.   We can be challenged to show appreciation to people - and as we do it, we demonstrate the love and character of Christ, as we seek to build others up.