You probably know by now how much I adore symbolism. It’s one of the things I admire most about the biblical parables and scripture in general. My belief is that symbols are given by God’s Spirit to help show eternal truths that would, otherwise, not easily be understood. Within the proper context of a story, symbols can become wonderfully illustrative.
The song “Magnificent” by U2, released in 2009, provides both symbolism along with a shimmering guitar and iron-horse bass I can’t help but love. Its rich lyrical symbolism includes: Magnificent — The Magnificat [Latin: magnifies], also called the Canticle of Mary, is recorded in the Gospel of Luke (1:46-55); I was born to be with you (Psalm 139:13); only love can heal such a scar (John 15:13 + John 20:24-29); I was born to sing for you (Psalm 96:1-2); my first cry, it was a joyful noise (Psalm 98:4): Justified till we die (Acts 13:38-39).
Maybe Bono, the lead singer for U2, had it right when he said, “All the best songs are co-written by God, ya know!”
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Sources: Patheos + Sistine Chapel + Pexels - Markus Spiske