Today has been a very interesting day, to say the least. My husband texted me while I was at camp to let me know that Michael Jackson had passed away. I was immediately struck with sadness. I haven’t been fond of him for many years now, but his accomplishments as a young talent are staggering. His impact on society in music, fashion and dance are still being seen through-out this next generation.
In the 80’s, my brother was in the Mt. Morris Ensemble. It was a group that many of us younger kids longed to be part of when we grew up. I remember hearing my brother sing at my school… and the songs they sang were from the “Thriller” album. This is a connection with my school years, my brother, my friends, and then my love of music. All intertwined and all part of who I am today.
My sadness, also stems from looking at such a talent and wondering where his life could have gone. What decisions made him choose the path that he chose? So much to offer, yet in so many ways, wasted! I wonder if he knew God? I wonder if… at night, he wished that his life had been different. I’ll never know. But, today… I wonder!
But while today was filled with sadness … it was also filled with JOY! I have been here at camp for 2009 Crusaders Camp. These kids are amazing. They love to worship God with their song and with their dance. They love to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. During this week, at least 61 children have received the Holy Ghost for the first time. These are lives that are truly amazing!!! I listened tonight as a young girl read a poem about what this camp means to her… her words brought tears to my eyes as she talked about the services being her favorite part. How they are free to worship God, and trust in him, to be themselves with him.. to give him all their fears and burdens.
I watched as tears rolled down their faces during altar call… worshiping God with their whole heart. Truly an amazing and beautiful site! I’m glad this is where I am. Some times when reflecting on a loss.. you look around and see there is so much to gain! Life, Love and God! My prayers are going up for these kids and their walks with God. They are a new generation!
Today while the world was shocked by the loss of a music icon, a person that many worshiped (an idol to them) … these kids knew whom they worship! Not man, but the One True God!
I am so thankful that my children know who God is. They have never heard of Michael Jackson, they don’t know the beautiful talent that he had…but they DO know that God is the one and only God. They know that they have freedom to worship Him, and they do so without any hesitation.
God-given talent is nothing without a heart to worship the God that bestowed the talent upon you.