One of the videos from YouTube that is taking the culture by storm occurred a few weeks ago in a Macy’s store in Philadelphia. The Opera Company of Philadelphia invaded the mall in Center City with 650 vocalists who, unknown to shoppers, had arranged what was called a “flash mob” burst.
At a specifically calibrated moment in time, the choir burst into singing The Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah to unsuspecting patrons. You can see what is described as a random act of culture at the YouTube link:
The Messiah is an English oratorio composed by George Frideric Handel during the summer of 1741. It premiered in Dublin, Ireland on the 13 April 1742. Handel continued to revise it until it reached its final rendition in 1754. This work of art has brought inspiration to every generation during these last 250 years and is now a common expression of Christianity as we prepare for Christmas celebrations.
What is really amazing is that the Messiah was not just an incredible masterpiece of Christian music but it became one of the strongest expressions of Christian doctrine ever produced. Messiah presents an interpretation of Christianity’s view of the Messiah, or the anointed one, and portrays him as Jesus Christ. Take a good look at the lyrics and they unabashedly proclaim Christ’s person and work. Just one random pick reveals Handel’s blatantly religious bias: “The kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our lord and of his Christ and he shall reign forever and ever. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah.” The Bible is quoted from beginning to end.
This masterpiece covers three stages of Christ’s life by drawing upon prophecies concerning Christ’s life, His crucifixion and John’s revelation of Christ’s present state in heaven. The wording of the oratorio is a study in theology. There is no political correctness messaged into the material. It exalts Jesus Christ as Lord over every culture.
As a Christian, I was blessed when I heard this random act of culture, but what was more surprising to me was the response of those present. The blogs say it all: “Just beautiful!” “[It was] moving beyond words.” “That was awesome.” “This is one of the greatest things to happen in Philadelphia in a long time.” “[It] brought tears to my eyes.” “[It] gave me goosebumps.” “Beautiful! Totally moving. I wish I could have seen this live! Random acts of Culture…I LOVE IT!”
What was noticeably absent in the commentary was reaction from the few who seem to find something wrong with anything Christian in the public arena. I was expecting to hear someone spout their objection on the basis of separation of church and state. I anticipated that there would be complaints from shoppers who felt that they were assaulted by Christians pushing religion in a public place.
However, this random act of culture appeared to strengthen the faith of many of those who were there. One older man stated, “I just received my first present for the season. My eyes are moist. The years washed away and I was a young boy at church. The feeling that ran through me made me feel young again and renewed my faith.”
Not everyone shared the same joy from this expression of faith but they equally valued the experience. One shopper shared, “Why make this political? I am not Christian, but [I] can enjoy the piece for its cultural relevance! It’s beautiful for what it is, not for being Christian!” Another described it as “an act of culture and not an act of faith.”
I understand this view, but for me, this event was encouraging. It tells me that there is a cord that can be struck within North America in regards to the place Christianity has within culture. I value Canada’s multi-cultural focus, respecting the beliefs and values of many faiths, but multi-culturalism can lead us to the devaluing of every culture.
Canada has a deep rooted connection to the Christian faith. It is interwoven into every aspect of our history, our political and educational institutions, and our social traditions. As secular as we are told that we are, we are still deeply connected to the umbilical cord of Christianity.
Every nation I have had the privilege of visiting values and promote their religious history, whether it is Islam, Buddhism or Hinduism. The list is endless. There is no confusion identifying their fundamental religious belief system. When you enter the country you are taught to respect what they respect.
Maybe it is time for Canada to do the same. Honouring our Christian roots and heritage is nothing to be ashamed of but something to be celebrated. It is possible that through this Random Act of Culture event, we are seeing the renaissance of Christian faith within North American culture.
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