Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Prayer of the Children

We had a tribute today. To all the victims in Connecticut.
Our Madrigal choir was asked to sing Prayer of the Children. I no longer have any doubt that we were inspired to sing that song our first term in choir.

That performance today was truly one of the most powerful musical experiences I have ever had. 
My heart goes out to all the children--including the friends of those that died, the siblings that will never see their brother or sister again. To the parents who never thought this would happen. To presents that will remain unwrapped presents on Christmas day. To the teachers. To all. Because the effects of this tragedy really do reach so much farther than the obvious heartbreak. I hope you do begin to hear the prayer of the children. 




(This is not my picture; it's just a picture from the tribute.)

Can you hear the prayer of the children?
On bended knee in the shadow of an unknown room.

Empty eyes with no more tears to cry, turning heav'nward toward the light. 
Crying Jesus help me to see the morning light one more day,
but if I should die before I wake, I pray my soul to take.


Can you feel the hearts of the children?
 Aching for home--for something of their very own.
Reaching hands with nothing to hold on to,
but hope for a better day, a better day.
Crying Jesus help me to feel the love again in my own land,
but if unknown roads lead away from home,
give me loving arms, way from harm.
Can you hear the voice of the children?
Softly pleading for the silence of the shattered world.
 
Angry guns preach the gospel full of hate,
blood of the innocent on their hands.
 
Crying Jesus help me to feel the sun again on my face,
for when darkness clears I know your near, bringing peace again.
Can you hear the prayer of the children.