THE REBEL JESUS

I have enjoyed the music of the Chieftains for many years. I think I purchased their CD called The Belles of Dublin over 10 years ago. The Chieftains are a traditional Irish band  from Dublin, Ireland. Their sound, which is almost entirely instrumental and largely built around uilleann pipes (the national bagpipes of Ireland), has become synonymous with traditional Irish music and they are regarded as having helped popularize Irish music across the world.

The Chieftains from Last.fm

One song on this CD that has always captivated me is The Rebel Jesus. The words describe a Christmas scene and how many of us go about the Christmas season. We buy presents for our friends and family, we may take an annual pilgrimage  to church, and we might consider giving something to those less fortunate.

All of these are good, but as the song instructs us, there is more.  Read these words of the third verse:

"We guard our world with locks and guns
And we guard our fine possessions
And once a year when Christmas comes
We give to our relations
And perhaps we give a little to the poor
If the generosity should seize us
But if any one of us should interfere
In the business of why they are poor
They get the same as the rebel Jesus."

As we look back at 2012, we are thankful for the many who have "interfered in the business of why they are poor" by volunteering at and financially supporting your Faith in Action. You are Faith in Action. Also, we are asking for your continued support in 2013 as we focus on the "why they are poor." 

The Rebel Jesus
(Click on The Rebel Jesus to hear this song.)