Lamb of God, You Show Us The Way

In much of my music writing, I try to render traditional Christian symbology in a new, relevant modern light. This choral work "Lamb of God, You Show us the Way" presents God as symbologically and literally alive in Nature (and as Nature), but waiting for us to recognize and respond to this Divine Presence in a way that affirms our humanity and the dependence we have on our planet and on each other. The intention behind this piece is that in order to heal ourselves and our planet, we need to become more conscious of the desire for The Divine to express within us, and develop unity of purpose and enlightened action for positive change. This work begins with an image of the Sacred Lamb lying in a field, enrobed in grace, original innocence, and innate worth. The idea here is the sacred Christian Lamb symbol presented as physically and spiritually alive in Nature, always mystically still and at peace within itself. The capacity and potential for all forms of transformation and healing are already present right here and right now, waiting to be realized. The Lamb appears as the spark of Divine Life within us and within our planet. But in order to be sensitive to the Divine Lamb's presence and message, we have to center ourselves, open our hearts and minds, and work together sincerely toward a common purpose. In the second section of the piece, beginning at measure 57, I explore the idea that, if we can return to listening to the sacred stillness of the Divine Lamb the "Agnus Dei" lying peacefully in the field of the physical world we can receive inspired guidance about how to effectively respond to climate change. The message of this piece is simply this: When we can see Spirit alive in Nature, listen to Mother Earth's "resounding cries" (measures 69-70), clarify our vision, and come together with strength as one human family, in earnestness and with coherent sincere action, we can make positive change for ourselves and our world.