Oh, mercy mercy me
Ah, things ain’t what they used to be…
The year was 1971 and Marvin Gaye’s popular environmental song made it to the top of the charts. I cannot tell you where I was when I first heard the song, but it is likely that I was in my 1968 VW Super Bug listening to Cousin Brucie on WMCA (AM) out of New York City. Perhaps I was driving to Rose’s house to pick her up for a date or to Adelphi University to have my brain filled with information; some useful, some not. Back in those days I tapped on the faux leather steering wheel cover (poorly laced by me) and sang along, never once thinking about how the song ended or what the message really was. It seems that a fair amount of the music I listened to in my youth was more about style than content, although there were certain artists whose lyrics did give me pause to think. My guess is most who read this either never heard the song or if you did you may not remember the topic or the conclusion. Gaye spends much of the song lamenting about the trashing of the environment which, by the way, did and still does resonate with me; however, I would not classify myself as a card carrying tree hugger. Rather, I see mankind charged with being stewards of the resources the Lord has provided—and we are to be wise stewards, but we are to use, not abuse the bounty He has provided. Now, here is the interesting thing—at least to me… I don’t know a thing about the late Marvin Gaye, but the last chorus reads as follows:
How much more abuse from man can [you] stand?
My sweet Lord
My sweet Lord
My sweet Lord
That is an interesting question—I guess I’d like to know a bit more about Marvin’s faith, because he stood in good company when he asked a probing question like that. It is a question that is asked again and again by serious, contrite individuals throughout the Scriptures. I guess I’d like to ask the same question, but not as it relates to the environment, although that remains important to me. You can pick the tune, but I think the Lord is far more interested in how we love our brothers and sisters, our neighbors, and- I’ve got to say it, not because I want to, but because He says it - our enemies.
How much more abuse from man can You stand?
My sweet Lord
My sweet Lord
My sweet Lord
I do look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Pastor J
Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?