Vision Over Visibility

My friend, John Miller, and his wife, Pam are walking a long and difficult road - one of grief. They lost their son, Benjamin, March 10, 2009. He died, then he was born.

Since Ithe 6th grade, U2 has been one of my favorite bands. Their music and lyrics are arresting and speak to an unfamiliar place in my soul. Their music was not just delightful to my ears, it touched me deeply, but couldn't name where.

Much later in my life, I came to know the love of Jesus and remained a loyal U2 fan. Enter John Miller, a Christian U2 fan as well. For as long as I've known John, he's always helped me see God's redeeming power through the arts, music to be specific. I discovered that I wasn't alone in the way "secular" music can touch our hearts and move us deeply. John knew that feeling well and helped confirmed, tangibly, what my seminary professor drilled into my head, "Life is full of God." He knows our hearts and uses many ways to speak to us. (When I was a brand spanking new Christian, I was told to throw out all my "secular" music and listen ONLY to worship tunes. That did not sit well with me. I have been touched by God in heart-places by such bands as Dave Matthew's Band, Coldplay, and U2. I was not going to toss their music.)

Well, right now John and Pam are clinging to Jesus. And in their darkest of days, He is bringing them love and comfort through the arts; through the inspiring lyrics of Bono. I encourage you to follow John's story as he walks a road of sorrow, yet filled with grace. His website, "Vision Over Visibility," is truly moving and amazing.

Thank you, John, for sharing your un-wished journey with others. As brothers and sisters in Christ, may we carry even a small piece of your burden, as you continue to hold tightly to Jesus.

Grace & peace ~ deAnn