Why religious songs?It has to do with my upbringing in a Catholic school and all the retreats and youth communities I'm a part of. Studying in a Catholic school, I was exposed to Jesuit (a religious congregation) songs because we sing them a lot when we celebrate the mass. I loved singing them and continue to sing them even with the youth groups I'm a part off. Singing these songs is a way for us to bond together even though we may not normally mix because we come from different walks of life. Songs which I label Church songs fall into this category. (Love is the Answer is an example.) Now as for the Steven Curtis Chapman songs, I was exposed to them by a friend of mine who helped me out while I was in college. I was experiencing low moments in my life, and he helped me out by sharing the Gospel with me. My friend's words cheered me up and helped me develop a more solid faith in Jesus Christ. Now it just happened that while I was riding in his car one day, he played a tape full of Steven Curtis Chapman songs. I suddenly got hooked. Before this experience, I was never really a fan of Gospel music because it kinda struck me as weird to be worshipping God in such a lively, charismatic, and rock and roll type of singing. As I said before, it's a culture thing among Filipinos to worship God through more solemn type of songs. But I found Steven's music to be full of meaning and inspiration. The lyrics spoke out to me and I really could relate with what he was talking about. He's very honest and shares openly his experiences and ideas through his songs. He's not a hypocrite, or someone entertaining others just for a buck. He sees everything as a part of his ministry to serve God. I don't know if I'm making any sense, but let me just summarize in one line by saying that I believe in him and in Him whom he represents. Anyway, from then on, I became a fan of Gospel music. I feel that a lot of people stereotype Gospel music as something only weirdos get into. People get turned off by Gospel music fans. It's like if you're into Gospel music, stay away from me! But I realize only after going through life's struggles, pains and difficulties that the hope found in the words of these Gospel songs offer the only answer to the question of life's meaning. It's hard being a true Christian in this world which is why I look to Christian song writers to help me out. I know they too struggle with their faith, and so we can somehow relate with each other through the song. I guess that's why I'm suddenly into Gospel music. I just need a lot of hope and guidance in life. I'm hoping that through these MIDI files, a lot more people will get to know more about God, more about good values, and more about loving others. This doesn't mean that I can't appreciate other types of music. I like some songs by Metallica for example. I like a little of everything, but I'd just like to focus whatever style of music I'll develop around God. Who knows, maybe a techno religious song will come up in the future? :) Comments? Mail me at reystarr@pusit.admu.edu.ph.
|
