Here in America

This past week, Betsy and I needed some refreshment and we found it in a surprising encounter--with the late Rich Mullins. Finding a documentary about his life on Youtube, we decided to watch it together to learn more about his life and his music. We were both refreshed by the testimony of his life because he tied so many of our loves together. He is a poet like Betsy; enjoys writing songs like me; has a strong affinity with the poor, harking back to our experiences and loves for Our Community Place and Early Church in Harrisonburg; he cares about the peoples of the world and is passionate for the KINGDOM OF GOD as we are.



Betsy knew some songs I didn't know and vice versa. But our favorite was one that I have loved for many years, called (ironically enough) "Here in America." The lyrics of this song are incredibly beautiful and the music together with it moves me to worship every time. Powerful! If you have a few minutes (and a good internet connection), watch/listen to this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjP7A8Jp9vI&feature=related
(sorry for the previous link, which was inaccessible to you Americans without a charge. This one's pretty rough, so hopefully they won't ask... STILL an awesome song!)

Much love to you from our short retreat in Jerusalem! ("The Holy King of Israel loves us here" too! :)

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122)...

Philip