Church in Styria

So, today I played my first church service in Europe, performing a Mozart Mass. It was a special service, with the Bishop in attendance. It was the last service the Benedictine Monks are serving in Styria. I found this out afterwards from someone who understood what was being said during the service. The monk, who was in charge of the order here in Styria, passed away in an accident and apparently they were unable(?) to find a replacement. So, from what I understand, they are now leaving the area.

The church was a modest building, which was honestly refreshing. After seeing all the ornate alters and stained glass windows, it was nice to be able to worship in a building that feels like it reflects my position before God and not the other way around. I don't think the simpleness is anything to be ashamed of.

I think I've said it before, but these ornate churches require (from me) a special humbleness to worship in them. To not get caught up in the glory of something man made, but rather the beauty and glory of God that is reflected. It is honestly not something I'm used to. (That's not to say I haven't been in nature or a beautiful place, and been moved by the beauty of God reflected. But, they are seldom designated places of worship). But, even knowing the purpose of these churches, it's proven more difficult than I imagined to feel able to come before God as I am: dirty and in need of sanctification. When I come before God, I know I have little to offer. But, sometimes seeing what's around me, causes me to wonder if maybe other people have something to offer. That's neither true nor the point, I realize. But, regardless, it's sometimes difficult to enter in knowing who I am and how God sees me and not speculate at what everyone else looks like and has to offer.

This brings me to this post I keep thinking about that I read earlier this week...

http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/10/its-just-a-fking-little-16th-note-but-you-have-to-play-it/

...Good art really does expose who you are. What your strengths and you weaknesses are. I've recognized that early on with Bach, like the post above mentions. Which is one of the reasons why I think I require extra courage to play it the older I get. But, I never expected a building to expose my weaknesses: my tendency to compare myself to everyone around me. When what I need to be doing is looking towards my perfection in Christ. But, this building also shows my strengths. Being able to see the beauty around me, for who it is. The strength to appreciate, to soak in, and fully experience. And, my desire to enter into worship wherever I go.

I like the honesty with being laid bare. Coming as you are. For that is the only way we can come before Jesus. It's Jesus, adorned, who comes before us, inviting us in.

These places, they all just lay me bare differently.

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Well, this afternoon after church I had a lovely day to myself. I went out to lunch and had one of my favorite greek dishes: Dolmathakia. And, of course, some baklava.

I then went to the park and set up my hammock and commenced to have some quiet time with God, completed by a wonderful nap afterwards. For the record, I only fell out of my hammock once. Everyone here is trying to find ways to combat the heat (it's 99 degrees and almost 10 pm). Blurg. Most people went swimming (which I did yesterday and will do again tomorrow). But, today, I decided to take to the shade and read beneath some trees. Quite rewarding if you ask me, and well worth it.

Dolmathakia

Baklava