02-12-25

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
February 12, 2025
I’m guessing we all have gotten a song in our head, and no matter what we have attempted to do, it would not leave. A few days ago, I heard on the radio the Alphaville song, “Forever Young.” I have been singing and humming the song ever since. For those who have experienced my poor attempt at singing, I apologize (mostly to family). The key line in the chorus is: “Forever young, I want to be forever young.” The meaning of the song was always a bit of a mystery to me, though I have come to learn that it was not simply a nostalgic song about remaining forever young. The song, released in 1984, was an honest reflection of people’s fear of nuclear war and the potential annihilation of everything. The lyrics emphasized the importance of maintaining youthful optimism and resisting the debilitating effects of despair on one’s spirit. Though as I sang the lines I could remember, I will confess that I sort of wanted younger joints, and yearned for the sleep I got when I was a kid. But in the end, my hope is to maintain a somewhat younger attitude and perspective on life. I fear becoming a curmudgeon, yet I have known in the life of the church so many amazing people in their 70’s and 80’s (even 90’s) who have continued to be curious, unafraid of change, full of joy, and just fun to be around. But maybe, instead of attaching such attributes to the young, it would make more sense to simply attach those attributes to any human being who is trying to live life to the fullest. 

Spirit of hope and joy, continue to keep me appreciative of all that life has to offer, especially when my mind remains open and my soul full of love. Amen.