It seems that every time I post about a song, it’s the greatest song ever. And I’ve written about a few in the months I’ve been doing this. But you might also notice they cover a bit of a range.
So sure, I’ve told you that Supertramp’s Crime of the Century is the greatest album ever made, and that Steely Dan’s “Aja” is an absolute masterpiece; but I’ve also told you my favorite Sousa march (“The Pathfinder of Panama”) and explained how rap is the perfect medium for Christian music because of its ability to pack so many words into just a few minutes.
Yet among the songs I love, there are more than just those I think are well-produced or that bring me satisfaction in listening. I’ll admit, most of what I say here is just talking smack. I mean, yes, “Aja” is incredible, but I’m also not so naïve as to think there are not some less-discerning people out there who might not agree.
And still there are certainly songs out there that may not be as well-known, but mean the world to some people because they raise deeply-held emotions and memories. I have one such song that I believe is not only great on its own – as a matter of fact, it enters this story for just that reason – but is also deeply meaningful to me for other reasons that are far more important.
You’ve probably never heard of Jenny and Tyler, but they make some beautiful music. Their song, “The Kingdom of Heaven,” was a favorite of mine from the first time I heard it. It’s a song that points directly at our ultimate hope in God. But for me it’s also a reminder that there are people around the world who are willing to give up everything to bring that message of hope to others who are lost and wandering. I am so blessed to know a family who was willing to do just this, and some years ago as I was spending time with them, the mother asked me my favorite song.
At the time I was really enjoying “The Kingdom of Heaven” (because, like I said, it was just a great song). She wanted to hear it, and as I played it for her, I explained its meaning. I remember so well the moment when she started to sing along, and it was beautiful.
This is why the song means so much more to me. Not only do I love the music and the words and the message of hope; but every time I hear it, I think of that beautiful family and the joy of the mother sharing her love by singing the words to a song she had only just heard in a language that was not her own.
And so every time I hear it, I miss them and pray for them…more important reasons than it just being a great song…