On a visit to South Africa, I attended a church in Soweto, a township near Johannesburg. The music brought me great pleasure, although I did not understand a word, nor was I truly able to follow along. The sound was amazing; the singing enveloped and lifted me. There was no accompaniment, other than the beating of what seemed to be a pillow. That experience has led me to believe that music can bridge deep divides between people who are open to the connection. The South African Christians I met at that church in Soweto are very poor and are struggling to raise families in the midst of the terrible legacy of apartheid. Yet they welcomed and embraced the visiting American college students. We were inspired by them and by their music.
             Music has the ability to touch people's hearts and souls, even when the language used is foreign to the ears. People respond to music because of its power to touch them, to tell a story, and to stay with them. These qualities make music a significant potential tool for mission and ministry A generation ago, music played a primary role in the civil rights and anti-war movements. Songs were used to shape social opinions and to battle repression. Our generation needs to continue to use music as we seek to influence the social and spiritual directions of society. Music’s coupling of thoughts with rhythm and melody can move those who find it difficult to express their feelings. If we can influence those who make music to use positive images, progressive messages and spiritual values, we may be able to inspire people to embrace the teachings of Jesus and to do great things in our society and in the world.