THE LIGHT 98.5 Vanderhoof

Former WNBA All-Star Tamika Catchings-Smith discusses some of the challenges ...

When BBC Music Magazine asked one hundred fifty-one of the world’s leading conductors to list twenty of what they believed to be the greatest symphonies ever written, Beethoven’s Third, Eroica, came out on top. The work, whose title means “heroic,” was written during the turmoil of the French revolution. But it also came out of Beethoven’s own struggle as he slowly lost his hearing. The music evokes extreme swings of emotion that express what it means to be human and alive while facing challenges. Through wild swings of happiness, sadness, and eventual triumph Beethoven’s Third Symphony is regarded as a timeless tribute to the human spirit.

Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians deserves our attention for similar reasons. Through inspired words rather than musical scores it rises in blessing (1:4–9), falls in the sadness of soul-crushing conflict (11:17–22), and rises again in the unison of gifted people working together for one another and for the glory of God (12:6­–7).

The difference is that here we see the triumph of our human spirit as a tribute to the Spirit of God. As he urges us to experience together the inexpressible love of Christ, Paul helps us see ourselves as called together by our Father, led by his Son, and inspired by his Spirit—not for noise, but for our contribution to the greatest symphony of all.

To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/110/29 3679 Robert Reinsch (Doubt, False Doctrine, Suffering, War) Robert’s parents become concerned when he begins reading a Bible different from their own, and he questions many of their practices based solely on church traditions. Then his cousin and closest friend is killed in combat, and he struggles to understand how a loving God can allow suffering. While serving in the military, Robert is led on a journey of deepening His faith in God. He eventually attends Bible College and becomes a pastor until his health forces him to retire, still trusting in God’s love.