Recycling...

Recycling

Theology in the Trenches

By Kathleen Kjolhaug

Smiles gave way as the townspeople gathered in clusters giving pats on the back once the theatrical performance ended. Young aspiring students engulfed in the moment smiled back. Sincere appreciation was intentional. After all, they’d worked together for the past several months to make this happen.

Parents cleared schedules in order to help follow through with the mandatory practices. Teachers made it top priority to do what they do best…teach. Extra hours were given. Personal cash forked over to add a final touch here and there; it all paid off. Laughter filled the seats as the audience appreciated every ounce of the final product performed to perfection.

The music teacher, back from contest with her students, was among those congratulating the artists. The history teacher mingled nearby. She’d been away at contest with a performer or two and arrived just in time for them to partake in the opening act. The football coach sat front and center while the young people held their audience spellbound.

With a tap on the shoulder, genuine conversation ensued.

“Your daughter did great! Where is she headed next year?”

“She’s going to the U of M and wants to major in Political Science. She’d like to work at the United Nations some day,” mama offered. The young performer had been inspired along the way.

The music teacher continued giving voice to kind words falling upon ears within reach as she intentionally moved through the crowd. Lifting up others came easily. You see…it wasn’t that long ago since she, too, had been in school receiving pats on the back from her teachers and community members. It wasn’t that long ago since she, too, had been encouraged to develop her gifts. It wasn’t that long ago since she, too, had left home going off to learn so others may in turn keep learning. Little did she know that one day, she would be among those in line to give back to the very community from which she’d so authentically received.

I watched. And, as I did, I took note. I took note that the obvious message this giver gave was that it was not about her…but about others. I took note that the same giver of music at school was the same giver of music in church the next morning. I took note that the same encouragement given to students rolled over into joy while directing the choir. I took note that the voice resonating large came from behind the piano from which she played.

I’m not sure if you’re a fan of recycling or not, but Luke 6:38 is. “Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”  Amen.