WARNING – volatile & disturbing content!
You know, there’s something about a headline like that that reaches out and smacks you. It’s like putting a sign ‘wet cement’ or ‘wet paint’ up – it begs you to write your name in it or touch it!
So I thought I’d start this post with those words. My son (Josiah) is absolutely the most awesome kid I know (and I admit the bias right up front). Unfortunately for his wonderful mom, Josiah likes the same types of music I do. So I have the pleasure of turning my son on to some awesome tunes, and he does the same for me. This is the music that makes the two of us move, and it solidifies our bonds on many levels. It never ceases to amaze me the conversations music starts between us, and the teaching opportunities it opens up both ways.
A few months back, he calls me to his computer. ‘Dad – we’ve got to go and get the new album by this group. Listen to this!’ Hey, it was good stuff! Then the band released the video before the official release of the album. I was floored.
The song was about suicide. It’s not something we talk much about. In fact, it’s not something we think much about. But don’t think it hasn’t impacted folks – maybe even someone reading this. Less than a year ago a co-worker took his life, and I still get to see the impact it has on my circle of coworkers.
So if you were wondering what this post was about, now you know. And I hope it is thought provoking, maybe even discussion provoking.
Theologically – I have issues with this song’s lyrics. But then again, this song isn’t written (as far as I can tell) to preach. It seems to be more of a release. So I thought I’d start the discussion on some of the theological stuff.
Does the Bible speak of suicide? If so, what does it have to say? Now at this point, I could do the dirty work for you, the reader. But I don’t think I’m going to here, because this is a subject that perhaps YOU need to do the leg work on. Oh, I don’t mind answering questions (‘Don’t the Catholic’s have some issues around this?’ or ‘What do other denominations say about it?’ are good questions). But I’m wondering what YOU have to say about it and how God is using His word to speak to you on the issue. That’s what I’m wondering.
I admit – I love the music. I don’t have many Christian bands that are real ‘in your face’ on this issue (and yes, I love Christian rock / metal). And for the adults reading – I’m not wanting to upset our kids (I think you know I love them too!). But I’m wondering if we have the ‘guts’ (if you will) to discuss this issue with them. They are getting information about it in the world…are you ready for the discussion? Better check The Book first! And I’m guessing it’s been a while since you looked there for much on this issue!
Here’s the link to the video below (after the lyrics). I’ve also posted the lyrics below so you see the song is ‘clean’. If you don’t make it through the video, I understand. The first part is the lead singer expressing how he was touched by this issue, and giving out information to the suicide prevention hotline. Some folks in the church may need to know that information as well, it’s hard to tell…
Lyrics
“Inside The Fire”
Band – Disturbed
Devin
Won’t go to heaven
She’s just another lost soul,
About to be mine again
Leave her
we will receive her
It is beyond your control
will you ever meet again
Devin
No longer living
Who had been rendered unwhole
As a little child,
she was taken
and then forsaken
you will remember it all
Let it fill your mind again
[Chorus:]
Devin lies beyond this portal
take the word of one immortal
Give your soul to me
For eternity
release your life
to begin another time with her
End your grief with me
there’s another way
release your life
take your place inside the fire with her
Sever
Now and forever
you’re just another lost soul about to be mine again
see her, you’ll never free her
you must surrender it all
If you’d like to meet again
Fire
For your desire
As she begins to turn cold for the final time
you will shiver
till you deliver
you will remember it all
Let it fill your mind again
[Chorus]
Give your soul to me
For eternity
release your life
to begin another time with her
End your grief with me
there’s another way
release your life
take your place inside the fire with her
Devin
No longer living
Who had been rendered unwhole
As a little child
she was taken,
and then forsaken
you will remember it all
Let it fill your mind again
Video Link:
http://www.disturbed1.com/node/1411 (please note, video moved to the official band site, I’m not responsible for the content of other posts on that site!)