Some people say it's boring, that no-one knows the words; others that it's too pro-monarchy. But watching the nation's top athletes blasting it out with tears running down their faces would surely move the hardest of hearts.
Having said that, Jamaica's sprinters haven't just wowed me on the track - their national anthem made me really stop and listen; not because the tune is the catchiest I've ever heard (that accolade surely has to go to the Italians), but because the words were so profound.
Jamaica
Eternal father, bless our land
Guide us with thy mighty hand
Keep us free from evil powers
Be our light through countless hours
To our leaders, Great Defender
Grant true wisdom from above
Justice, truth be ours forever
Jamaica, land we love
Teach us true respect for all
Stir response to duty's call
Strengthen us the weak to cherish
Give us vision lest we perish
Knowledge send us, Heavenly Father
Grant true wisdom from above
Justice, truth be ours forever
Jamaica, land we love
Guide us with thy mighty hand
Keep us free from evil powers
Be our light through countless hours
To our leaders, Great Defender
Grant true wisdom from above
Justice, truth be ours forever
Jamaica, land we love
Teach us true respect for all
Stir response to duty's call
Strengthen us the weak to cherish
Give us vision lest we perish
Knowledge send us, Heavenly Father
Grant true wisdom from above
Justice, truth be ours forever
Jamaica, land we love
An anthem that asks for God's guidance? That teaches respect and care for the poor? A song that calls for wisdom and truth? That's amazing! No wonder they absolutely smashed it!
I wonder whether there's any link between the global impact the two relay runners that sang it out - Bolt and Blake - have had compared with their incredibly successful, but relatively unknown teammates - Carter and Frater.
You may think this is a completely ridiculous observation, and it definitely helps that they are such great sportsmen and personalities, but I truly believe that God honours those who honour Him (1 Samuel 2:30).
And as every football fan knows, you only win when you're singing... Or is it the other way round? :)
You should hear my sister sing the National Anthem!
ReplyDeleteNational Anthem - Liz Peak - Big Nasty Hill Climb 2012
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7avMm83IYrE