Journal #8 Christianity as a Living Reality

Submitted by Thomas Barry

 The most important aspect of christiany as a living reality to me is the gateways to
exploring life and faith, specifically music.

Christian music has played a major role in my life, and in the development of my faith
and relationship with god. Worship music I learned as a kid growing up in the church had a
significant impact on the way I learned, the childrens songs taught me about the bible and
the way I should live my life. These children's songs taught me important lessons such as
treating people with love, reading the bible, accepting others as well as the most important
that god loves me.

As I grew in age as well as my faith music still had a large impact on the way I lived
my life. Listening to music is one of my favorite ways to worship, I listen to music while doing
chores, driving, praying as well as doing work or school work. While listening to music is
when I feel closest to God and when I feel the strongest connection to him. I also used this
connection to music as a way to learn instruments to use as my own tool of worship.

Finally music is the tool I use to spread the word of god. I listen to music with others,
as well as showing my friends new songs I have found. I also play music to spread its
message as well as help others worship. I have worked at multiple summer camps where I
have played in the worship teams to play and teach the music to youth, as well as playing in
my home church’s worship team and brass band. I have also helped record some christian
music which is available online for free to anyone in hopes of someone finding it and it being
able to help them on their christian journey.

Music has been very impactful in my life and I believe it's also a great way to help
new christians explore their faith.