As I was driving to Phoenix the other day, I heard a version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” that I had never heard before.  It was a more modern version and it was very well done.  I have heard so many renditions of this popular song that I can’t even begin to list them.  I’ve heard from jazz versions to reggae versions, from country versions to punk rock versions.  And as I listened to the version by “Sachmo”, I realized that I had never heard a bad rendition.  Even the punk version could not destroy the purity and beauty of the song. 

Of the many artists and groups who have offered a rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” there is something that each hold in common.  Theses artist remain faithful to who they are.  They remain faithful to the genre, style and integrity of music which has led them to where they are.  And even though for some, a punk rock version might push our comfort zone, or even be outside our comfort zone, we can recognize a tribute to a milestone in American music that inspired the song to be offered by anyone and everyone. 

There’s something about this song that reminds us that there are some things in life that no matter how hard you try to destroy them, or tear them down, or change and transform them into something different than the original intent, it just can’t be done.  There are things of this world and in this world that have captured grace and beauty and no matter what, they will always convey and manifest just that; grace and beauty.

            I share this because this is true of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.  As much as there are forces in this world, known and unknown, that try to alter the beauty of the gospel, the grace of the gospel, the truth of the gospel, it becomes apparent to those of faith that this can not be done.  The gospel is the gospel and it is of God.  The gospel of Christ is not of this world and in so, as much as the world attempts to pervert it, the gospel will remain, at its core, in beauty, grace and truth.

            Brothers and sisters in Christ, you have received the gospel.  And when you are faithful and offer your rendition of the gospel, people will recognize the beauty, grace and truth of God through you.  When we live faithfully to our calling and our receiving of the gospel, in our own unique way, we are able to manifest God’s constant working within us.  You are an awesome and unique vessel of God’s beauty, grace and truth in this world.  Be alert and awake for your chance to sing.

Pastor Dan
Contact Pastor Dan at: pastor@mtzionelca.com