Music and the Spoken Word today had a "freedom" theme, in line with the celebrating of Independence Day this coming week. It was a very fun and rewarding broadcast to be a part of as I enjoy singing songs that center on such themes.
I think these patriotic songs that we sing each year at Memorial Day and Independence Day are being more and more--or less and less--appreciated by people. Those who long for our country to be more of what it once was and have it return to traditional morals and values and freedoms that it was built upon, are in the "more and more" camp. Those who are perfectly fine with the way this country has become are probably in the "less and less" camp.
Don't get me wrong. I still believe our country is a great country. I, like you, still enjoy the freedoms we have and the opportunities this country affords us. And for that, I'm very grateful. At the same time, I'm saddened by the actions (or inactions) of our current government, by the decisions handed down by our judicial system, and by the abuse of power demonstrated by the current presidential administration. I'm also saddened by a growing trend of selfishness, of intolerance, of disrespect, and of amorality.
Indeed, the scripture in 2 Timothy 3 fits nicely in describing what times we live in:
1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof. . .
So what can be done?
I don't claim to have all the answers, but some, I think, are found in some of the lyrics we sang today. Here are a few of those lyrics for your thoughtful pondering and spiritual interpretation:
I hear a distant song: it fills the air.
I hear it, deep and strong, rise up in prayer:
'O Lord, we are many; help us to be one.
Heal our divisions: let thy will be done.'
I know the time will come when war must cease:
A time of truth and love, a time of peace.
The people cry, 'How long?
Till all our world can join the song
Of freedom, freedom.'
(From John Rutter's piece, DISTANT LAND. Click HERE to listen)
Our fathers' God to Thee,
Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright,
With freedom's holy light,
Protect us by Thy might,
Great God our King.
(From Samuel Francis Smith's MY COUNTRY 'TIS OF THEE. Click HERE to listen)
May we all do just a little better.
Until next time, God be with you.
