BlakeHuggins.com

In preparation and anticipation for his upcoming book Everything Must Change, emerging church leader, Brian McLaren has joined forces with Aaron Strumpel over at Restoration Village in creating a new music project called “Songs for a Revolution of Hope.” I haven’t been able to find a track listing , but one of the songs, ironically titled “Atheist” has found its way onto YouTube. The song has evoked some feedback and as one can imagine, most of it is critical. I’m sure the whole project will spark many reviews, but the only two I read (or cared to read) on the single were over at The Slice and The CCM Patrol. The former is more of an attack on McLaren in general, the latter is more of a critical review.

Anyway, I can see why the critics might be upset. I’m sure if they haven’t yet, they’ll accuse McLaren of creating his own deity to serve his own agenda. But seriously, what’s wrong with the “agenda.” What’s wrong with a God of peace and justice, non-violence and mercy? Perhaps it would be better if we called the “agenda” what it really is–the truth. I suppose “blowback” should be expected when one assumes the role of prophet. The truth is hardly comforting at times, but it must be told. I found the song refreshing especially considering what gets labeled as “christian music” these days. People like McLaren and Derek Webb are reclaiming the prophetic voice by using subversive art. Somebody’s got to do it. Someone as to rise above all the “noise” and ask the tough questions.

We need these modern day prophets. We need them to tell us that violence will never be redemptive or salvific. Just as Jesus pioneered a new way of non-violent subversion and truth-telling, we need McLaren and Webb, et. al to hold our (and I use the term “our” very, very broadly) actions and their underlying theological ramifications accountable, to hold them up to a mirror of truth.

It’s not a popular thing to do, but I for one applaud it. I’m waiting for the next video…

~bh ><>