Sigh. Despite positive feedback on my interview, they decided not to go with me. This is becoming a recurring story for me this time, probably a direct result of having to compete against many other skilled people in this economy. The positive feedback keeps me from feeling crushed, but coming in second place doesn't pay any bills.
With that context, I found this music video really refreshing. I probably shouldn't tell you that it's a simple tune written to help kids memorize scripture, because then you might not play it. But there's something about this, with Beatles-esque "Kinetic Typography" that just… well, trust me. Press play.
(Hat tip: the accidental seminarian)
Hey Jon, I actually liked this. I would not have watched it except you convinced me.
Also, the first thing I saw when I came to your blog today was the as for Star Trek episodes and it made me laugh for some reason. I can't believe you can actually buy them on iTunes!
Thanks for the joy!
Posted by: Joel | May 16, 2009 at 06:55 PM
Hi bro,
I'm so sorry they made the wrong decision to go with someone else!
But I know God will sustain you -- what a FANTASTIC song and video -- you are right, very Beatles-esque.
Hey, if retail therapy helps, the HRM watch left in Friday's post -- and I included a couple books I think you'll find interesting. Well, one hilarious, the other interesting =O)
Hang in there bro,
~ Keith
Posted by: Keith Seckel | May 16, 2009 at 08:50 PM
Joel,
Yeah, I guess I'm so tired of "stuff" that normally the still frame would be a turn-off to me: The big scripture reference, the name of the group… So I'm glad you liked it.
And hey, I'm a geek. classic Star Trek episodes for a buck, woot!
Posted by: Jon Reid | May 16, 2009 at 09:54 PM
Keith,
Isn't that song better than good, but surprisingly good?
It was strange, but as I grieved over not getting the job — gosh, that sounds fancy. I was curled up on my bed crying. Anyway, as I did that, in the core of my grief, I felt God's presence and a strange, unexpected peace.
I look forward to my "retail therapy," ha ha! Good grief, you sent books as well? I can't wait…
Posted by: Jon Reid | May 16, 2009 at 09:59 PM
sorry about the job. :-( been through those times, ya never know what is waiting around the corner when god shuts a door! The video was great!
Posted by: Starr | May 17, 2009 at 04:50 AM
Thanks, Starr. Glad you liked the video, I just shared it with the family this morning at the breakfast table.
Posted by: Jon Reid | May 17, 2009 at 02:19 PM
It sounds like you are doing exactly what that scripture says, and God is sustaining you.
I'm so sorry, though. I'll keep praying. And ditto what Starr said.
And yes, the song is surprisingly good, I really liked it!
Posted by: Sami | May 17, 2009 at 08:29 PM
Jon, sorry abt the job thing, but if it brings you closer to the Lord, you're right where you need to be.
Great video - I liked the part where the word LORD is upside down floating on the water, carrying the word YOU. :-)
Posted by: Helen | May 18, 2009 at 11:37 AM
Most excellent song/video. I was just looking the other day for good scripture songs. I learned a couple with my church growing up and I still remember them. Dt 7:9 and 1 John 3:1. It's such a great way to memorize. So I went right on over to http://www.youtube.com/seedsfamilyworship to see what else they offer. Ps 55:22 was already a favorite, so that was fun, and so is Phil 4:6 (it's pretty good, too, I'm guessing you've seen it already? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jd35-M-xLX4&feature=channel_page ). Now if I can just find Galatians 5:22-23 in a good tune online somewhere. I've heard it in song before, but I can't find it online. Let me know if you happen across it somewhere!
But especially for you in your current circumstances, have you seen Psalm 34:18's song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnAi12cggig&feature=channel_page
Then of course, there's the 12 song soundtracks without video: http://www.seedsfamilyworship.net/media_listen.php
Boy am I having fun with this - thank you so much, Jon!!! I am so sorry for this long, frustrating path you're treading. Thanks for spreading joy and faith even as you walk the dark valley. Song 12 of the soundtracks is another great one...for you now and anyone anytime.
Posted by: Katherine | May 18, 2009 at 01:53 PM
Sami, things got harder for me after I posted this — maybe just a delayed reaction. I've had to keep this song in my head. I appreciate your continued prayers.
Posted by: Jon Reid | May 21, 2009 at 10:55 AM
Helen, there was something about this video that made me think, "Helen in particular would really like this." :-)
Posted by: Jon Reid | May 21, 2009 at 10:59 AM
Katherine, I hadn't explored their other songs. Thanks especially for the Phil 4:6-7 song. Talk about a different style!
Singing the scriptures is such a great way to memorize them. When I attended my brother's bar mitzvah, I was struck by how they didn't just read the Torah, but they actually learned a particular melody and cadence from the cantor. So this isn't a new idea!
Posted by: Jon Reid | May 21, 2009 at 11:22 AM