Another Monday, another playlist!

This week, the Jewish High Holy Days are in full swing (“Avenu Malkanu”). We then rejoin Moses and the Israelites in the desert, wandering and uncertain of what their next steps can or should be (“Shine”). It’s not about long-term planning anymore—this is about survival, quite literally. I’m struck by the faith of the Israelites in this moment, soldiering on in the wilderness in spite of doubt, regret, lack of food or shelter. I’m not sure I would have had their fortitude! God ultimately provides for them (“Big God”), and the Israelites come together once again (“Crowded Table”).

Moving onward, Paul’s letter to the Philippians encourages us to live in a Christlike manner in spite of what the rest of the world may say or do in response (“We Are Golden"). His messages about suffering for Christ as a privilege, while certainly intended as an inspiration for Christians to stand firm in faith, trouble me. Suffering is an unavoidable aspect of the human condition, and can allow someone to make meaning in their life—but calling it a privilege seems to glorify it unduly as something to be sought out. Pain may demand to be felt, but that doesn’t mean that actively seeking it brings one closer to Christ, or the way of love and care that Christ desires for us.

Our Gospel then tells the famous parable of laborers in the vineyard. I think of the laborers searching for work, giving a purpose to their day ahead and the opportunity to make meaning out of it (“Lilac Wine”). I think about the generosity of the vineyard owner, willing to share his wealth with those he hired and I wonder what may have inspired such giving (“Give It Away”). And then, as the parable ends, I marvel again at how the way of Christ fundamentally upends established social orders, and reveals a new way of abundance and care for one another (“Upside Down”). It’s a good reminder for me, that looking at things in a new way can shift my perspective, and help me see the love I might not have seen otherwise!

It’s my prayer that we all can take a moment to try and see things in a new way this week. Blessings to you all!

Read along with the lectionary here, and check out the whole playlist below.