Take Courage Sons
Today we're getting on a plane... again. We've been in England with my (Isaac's) family for a week. And now that we're almost over jet lag, we're heading out again. It's been a long road, this moving to Indonesia. We've said goodbye to family and friends, and now we're waiting in another airport. I'll admit that we're tired; I might even admit to some sadness. We and everyone we say goodbye to have been calling this an "adventure" because we want to capitalize on the excitement of it all (and it IS exciting). But mostly we call it that to avoid facing the reality of goodbyes, fatigue, and culture shock. I have to admit though, that while it has its merits, I don't find the concept of "adventure" to be an adequate refuge or strength. And I'm sure it won't be an ever present help in times of trouble.
About a month ago, Kacie and I discovered that we had both been meditating on and finding comfort and purpose in the same song. I could spend several pages describing our thoughts on the lyrics and how we apply them to our journey now, but instead, I'll just leave you with the words and let you listen to the song for yourself.
"Rise" by Josh Garrels:
Listen here: http://joshgarrels.bandcamp.com/track/rise
I hung my head, for the last time
In surrender and despair.
Before I’m dead, I’ll take the last climb
Up the mountain, face my fears.
The time has come, to make a choice
Use my voice for the love of every man.
My minds made up, never again
Never again, will I turn round.
Though they may surround me like lions
And crush me on all sides
I may fall, but I will rise.
Not by my might, or my power, or by the strength of swords
Only through, your love, my lord
All we’ve lost, will be, restored.
Take courage sons, for we must go under
The heart of darkness, and set them free.
But don’t lose heart when you see the numbers;
There’s no measure for, the faith we bring.
It’s given us, to overcome
If we run, where the spirit calls us on.
The greatest things, have yet to come.
With the dawn, we will rise.
Though they may surround us like lions
And crush us on all sides
we may fall, but we will rise.
Not by my might, or my power, or by the strength of swords
Only through, your love, my lord
All we’ve lost, will be, restored.
Farewell! Our love to you all,
Isaac, Kacie, Judah, and Elly
