Rigoletto: Can an Opera Reveal the Meaning of Life?

I’ve wanted to attend a service at Redeemer Presbyterian in New York for the longest time. Yesterday it happened. I preached at Richview in the morning, then got on a plane and arrived in Manhattan with plenty of time to make it to the 6:00 service. When I made it to the service, I thought that I had the wrong place.

Turns out I was in the right place. Redeemer put on an abridged performance of the opera Rigoletto, followed by a lecture by Tim Keller and a time of Q&A. They call this an open forum, which is something they do a couple of times a year. It’s designed “specifically for those who are exploring the claims of the Christian faith.”

At first I was disappointed not to catch a regular service, before I caught myself. What’s not to like about a performance with singers from the Metropolitan Opera, followed by a time of reflection by Keller? I settled in and it was amazing.

I’m going to have to come back another time for a regular Redeemer service, but last night was outstanding.

Today a group of us are meeting with Ed Stetzer for the day. Tonight we have tickets for Letterman, and then tomorrow we’re at the Dwell Conference. Looks to be a good few days.