So as I’ve already divulged, I have somewhat of a soft spot for certain songs that probably aren’t exactly at the top of every other teenager’s playlists on their ipods. I listen to the ‘normal’ stuff too, but I’m not ashamed of the occasional hymn, or Sandi Patty song, or in this case- my love for the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. This choir encompasses people from all walks of life, and with stories and pasts as diverse as the city of Brooklyn itself. In fact CBN once called it “a melting pot of humanity.” But beyond that, they are extremely talented- having performed in venues such as Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden. I love their music, but perhaps the song that was the most striking to me of theirs is, “He’s Been Faithful.”
The title alone is very powerful to me because in three words, it just says it all. But I think a big part of why I love the song so much, is that it’s been a ‘theme’ of sorts in my family’s life. Three years ago when my great grandfather died, this song was performed at his funeral- and that was the first time I’ve heard it. Ever since then, the poignant lyrics have stayed with me.
At every crossroads, every tough decision, every trial, and every setback I am reminded that God has always been faithful, and will always continue to be. I feel like I am at a very introspective time in my life, where as I find myself at this ‘mile stone’–graduating high school and entering college, I am looking back over all that has happened thus far and I see more clearly than ever- He’s been faithful.
A few weeks ago, my family ventured up to Pigeon Forge for the Frank Family Reunion. My feelings about the reunion have always been mixed- I’m not going to lie, sometimes I do get bored. But I am thankful for such a strong Christian family. I know it sounds weird, but those reunions are in some ways almost like a ‘church camp’ type experience for me. On the last night we have what we call ‘family share time’ and all of the families talk about everything going on in their lives, and I love it when my Great uncle Paul talks. Uncle Paul is the patriarch of the family, and he’s pushing 80 years old, but when he talks, I am immediately drawn in to what he is saying, because you know it is going to be worth hearing. And I remember that his year, Uncle Paul told all of us to know that “above all–God is faithful.”
It is such a basic concept, but what a wonderful truth to know- that when all else fails our God will always be faithful, just as he told his disciples in Matthew 28, saying: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
He’s Been Faithful
Faithful To Me
Looking Back His Love And Mercy I See
Though In My Heart I Have Questioned
Even Failed To Believe
Yet He’s Been Faithful, Faithful To Me
-Lyrics to “He’s Been Faithful”, Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
GREAT POST!