Advent Devotional - Day 16: by Frank Raike

December 14, 2009

READING: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not despise the works of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.”
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-22

I recently attended the Michael Jackson Movie, This Is It. I went to the film, not only because my wife asked me to go with her, but also out of sense of closure and finale.

Many years ago, I had met Michael and had a brief opportunity to work one of his concert tours, as a lighting operator. In retrospect, I recall that he didn’t have the ego or the arrogance that many self-absorbed rock stars think they are entitled too. He was nice and polite to everyone around him, no matter what your contribution was.

My brief moment around Michael Jackson was nothing particularly special. The concert moved from city to city, a couple times a week. However, Michael’s music came and evolved at a time when music videos were just becoming a fad and MTV started to define a generation. It was my generation.

Michael Jackson’s death earlier this year, seems to me that part of my generation has come to an end. It’s done; this is it.

From the movie, I find meaning in Thessalonians 5, in the presentation of Michael’s music, art, and performance. The film, This Is It, incorporates film footage that was taken during rehearsals from March through June at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The film captures the pure creativity of Michael. The film is constantly filled with musicians, choreographers, and crew, but the focus is forever on Michael Jackson. Watching him prepare for the concerts, one truly understands what it takes to be the best in music performance. To make the best at what God gave him.

What I brought a way from this film the most, is an appreciation of Michael’s disposition as a gentle, sweet soul, who was also a perfectionist. He was joyful and genuinely grateful to those around him. On the concert stage, he was sanctified and blessed in music, singing of caring for the world and loving his fellow man. His life might have ended, but his spirit lives on.

Jesus Christ, help us to remember to use our gifts that you have given us to the fullest, so we may shine for Christ wherever we go. Amen.