Life in the Shadow Lands

“. . .a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. . .” (Hebrews 8:5)   “. . .a shadow of the good things to come. . .” (Hebrews 10:1)

             Several times I have played pieces written for the piano which are reductions from a large orchestral score.  These are called transcriptions or transpositions.  For instance, the symphonies of Beethoven are written for full orchestra and there are certainly moments when all the strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion are fully engaged.  Those moments can be quite spectacular!  There are tender moments when solo instruments, like a flute or an oboe, are accompanied by the strings producing a lush and tranquil landscape of beauty and longing.

            It is impossible for a piano transcription of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony to capture the majesty and magnificence of the soaring strings, the rich timbre of the cellos and double basses, the serenity of an alto flute, the mysterious sonority of the English horn, the power and triumph of the brass, the inspiring swell of the rolling cymbals and the electric punch of the timpani.  The pianist is limited to ten fingers and an instrument which produces a singular tonality.  Even the finest of players, taking full advantage of the instruments capability and the dynamic range, can only begin to convey what Beethoven had in mind. 

            And so it is for us who are sojourners on this brief landscape of the present age.  We find ourselves living in a season of the history of the Kingdom which is best described as a shadow; a mere transcription or reduction of the real score.  God, the Master Architect and Composer, has chosen to begin the composition of human history with the brilliant outburst of a grand and noble beginning where all is created perfect and described as very good (Genesis 1).  This movement is followed by a long and dark passage in the minor key where mankind tastes the bitter fruit of sin, heart break, failure, and dismay.  There are occasional moments of triumph interspersed.  All of this leads up to the grand finale of brilliant light where the fireworks are launched and the music takes on a grandeur of massive proportions.  Then the real music begins! 

            It may sound trite to say it, but in truth, the best is yet to come! We are going further up and further in where the great Well-Spring of Life will envelope us in His arms and everlasting joy will crown our every movement.  Soon, the full orchestra of the heavens themselves will converge into complete fulfillment. 

            Faith causes hope to become tangible.  Abraham lived in the land of promise before he and his descendants actually possessed it.  But, by faith, Abraham possessed it  in his heart and mind as his feet touched the soil.  If we could see into the future, we would trust God completely in the now.  Do not let your heart remain in the shadow lands.  Let your heart stake out  and walk the length of the land of promise. 

 2012 Galestorm Music Inc