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Marcus Gray, known as FLAME, is a GRAMMY®- and Dove-nominated, Stellar Award–winning Christian rap artist. He's also a graduate of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and holds a master's degree in systematic theology. His three recent EPs (Extended Plays)—Extra Nos (2020), DayBreak (2020), and Christ For You (2021)— feature songs packed with the richness of Lutheran theology. You'll hear FLAME speaking and performing music at the LCMS Youth Gathering mass events. Q: How did you get into performing? What's your favorite part about it? A: I started performing in grade school. I was in dra- ma class and the band in addition to being in the drum corps. It was the element of self-expression that attracted me to live performance. Although I was an introverted only child, performing proved to be the perfect outlet for me. My favorite part has to be losing myself in the mo- ment—being consumed by the music, the message, and the response of the audience. It's one of the most freeing experiences. Q: What advice would you tell a young artist who wants to use their craft to tell others about Jesus? A: I'd tell an upcoming artist to enjoy the developing process for what it is. Those will be some of the most memorable and fun times. I'd also tell them to not be in a rush to get exposure. Don't be desperate for a viral moment. Enjoy each stage of the process. Work through the stage fright. Get comfortable discovering your particular strengths and skills. Get used to being in front of people. I'd also say learn the music business so you can protect yourself, your creative property, and make a living, potentially. Another important thing to note is if the artist desires to share their faith in music, I'd encourage them to give adequate attention to learning good theology. Not only learning it in your head but in your daily living and conversation. This will show up in your art and will help others work through things in their lives based on your clear presentation of godly ideas centered around a Christian worldview. Q: What difference has a supportive adult made in your life? A: It's a game-changer to have someone cheering you on. They can offer insight, pay attention to things that may have escaped your mind, encourage you when things don't go as planned, and celebrate with you when things go well. This is crucial. Q: Why do you think it's important for youth across the Synod to gather together on a large scale like this at the LCMS Youth Gathering? A: There is something unique about rallying together around one central theme or cause. In this case, we are rallying together around Jesus—in particular, the Gospel as articulated by Lutheran thought. There is a distinguishable sweetness that Lutherans have pre- served that must be highlighted and exposed continu- ously. Students should experience this confidence and celebrate the legacy of such a tradition all while seeing it contextualized for contemporary concerns. This type of gathering builds boldness and passion in the person. It will drive camaraderie and encourage others to be "Lutheran out loud," as I like to say. Which ultimately means to be a Christlike force in the world, honoring God and serving neighbor. Q: What one thing do you hope happens at the Gath- ering? A: That through these grand efforts and creative ex- pressions developed by the Gathering, the burdened consciences would find rest in the Good News of for- giveness—all while having fun doing so. Q: What does "Christ in all things" mean to you? A: It communicates to me the nearness of Jesus in the full panorama of my human experience. I can close my eyes and trust that His intentions for me are good. Q: Any encouragement you want to give adult lead- ers who are leading teens at the Gathering? A: Mostly, I'd like to say thank you for your willingness to serve in your vocation as an adult leader. I know it comes with unique challenges. Yet, as these students age, you will be one of the persons they recall with great fondness, who served them in one of the most turbulent and confusing stages of the life cycle. Great is your reward. Hear FLAME share more on faith, vocation, and song- writing on the Concordia Publishing House Podcast (podcasts.cph.org). w Lutheran Life 17

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