Day 18 - This Cornerstone

Music has always been powerful for expressing issues in society and in rallying for change. Popular songs about justice tackle the likes of themes of equality, human rights, and resistance against oppression, reflecting the enduring struggles and aspirations of people. These songs not only raise awareness about injustice, but also inspire and motivate listeners to take action.

A popular song which springs to mind is “Man in the Mirror,” released by Michael Jackson in 1988. It is a powerful anthem about personal responsibility and the need for social change. The lyrics, “I’m starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways,” emphasize the importance of self-reflection and taking action to address injustices in society.

Jackson’s vocals and the song’s uplifting melody inspire listeners to consider their own role in making the world a better place. The song highlights issues such as poverty and homelessness, urging individuals to recognize their power to make positive change through personal transformation and collective effort.

There are similar songs on the gospel scene, the likes of “In Christ Alone” by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. Written in 2002, the song was a collaborative effort between Townend and fellow songwriter Keith Getty. Stuart Townend explains, “Keith and I met in the autumn of 2000 at a worship event, when we resolved to try to work together on some songs. A few weeks later Keith sent some melody ideas, and the first one on the CD was a magnificent, haunting melody that I loved, and immediately started writing down some lyrical ideas on what I felt should be a timeless theme commensurate with the melody. The theme of the life, death, resurrection, and the implications of that for us, just began to tumble out, and when we got together later to fine tune it, we felt we had encapsulated what we wanted to say.” The song focuses on the redemptive work of Christ, which is central to God’s justice. The song reflects on how Christ’s death and resurrection brought justice and righteousness to the world.

In Christ alone my hope is found

He is my light, my strength, my song

This Cornerstone, this solid ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm…

Stuart Townend commented. “I’ve been amazed by the response to this song,” “we’ve had some incredible e-mails about how people have been helped by the song through incredibly difficult circumstances.” One e-mail described how a U.S soldier serving in Iraq would pray through each verse of the song every day, and how the promises of God’s protection and grace helped to sustain him through the enormous pressures and dangers of life in a war zone.

Townend says. “We in the West have had our sense of safety and security brutally torn apart by recent world events, and it's caused many to re-evaluate the foundations of their life. I feel that the song has helped to stir faith in many believers that God really is our protector; that our lives are in His unshakable hands.”

Yes, without doubt, Jesus is the answer.

Tom Bonnar