When was the last time you listened to the music of Brian Poole and the Tremeloes? Probably never I’m assuming. Most likely because you have never heard of them before. In 1962 Brian Poole and the Tremeloes auditioned for a spot on the artist roster of Decca records. Around the same time, another unknown British band was also auditioning for a place on the labels roster. With only one slot available the company had to choose between the two bands. They eventually decided to go with Brian Poole and the Tremeloes. The band they rejected was the Beatles, who, if you weren’t aware, went on to sign with EMI Records and became the most successful band in the history of music.
Somehow the team at Decca Records were led to believe that "guitar groups are on the way out”, which led them away from John, Paul, Ringo, and George. This decision has gone down in history as one of the worst ever made.
Being able to see the future would be such a useful skill to develop. It would make tough decisions so much easier to make if we had a guarantee of the outcome ahead of time.
Unfortunately, we don’t get to take a peep into our futures. God alone can do that. Instead, we are invited to walk in trust, not certainty. That being said, we aren’t left to blindly guess about every possible decision. This is where discernment steps up. Discernment isn’t about predicting the future, it’s about seeing clearly in the present. From a Christian perspective we understand discernment as both the outworking of wisdom and experience, as well as a Spirit-given ability. Discernment looks beneath the surface, to weigh what is true and good, and then to choose the path that leads toward the best outcome for people and for the glory of God.
When it comes to discernment some people have more of it than others. This is normal and natural. We can’t all be good at everything. But the people who are very discerning are the people you want in your life, the one’s who can help you see the things you are oblivious too. This is just another example that highlights the reality that people need people. There are people who need to be blessed by you, just as you need to be blessed by others.
Regardless of what communities you already have around you, I hope you also see the Avondale School community as one you belong in.
Pr Michael Chapman
Head of Campus Ministries
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