In times of tragedy, people often ask... “if there is a God, why did he let this happen?” I don’t have an easy answer for that, but I will say this: God DID let it happen to his own Son as well; although Jesus was fully God, he was also fully human. Human enough to pray “Please Father, if there is ANY way, please let this cup pass over me.” The truth becomes clear that in the bitter road of carrying our own crosses, we are also walking towards our own resurrections, in big and small ways.
This song, “For All Once Broken,” uses a hymn text by James Quinn for the verses, which I’ve set to a new tune and added a chorus. I’m a very big fan of this prolific hymn writer, and like many of his songs, these words struck me. I was drawn to the second verse:
“O heart your love for all outpouring, With pain upon the cross you bled. Come now with light, our life restoring; O heart by which our hearts are fed.”
When I was confirmed (many years ago!), I received from my uncle the first holy medal I’d ever worn. It was a Sacred Heart medal, just like the one he wore. The image of the Sacred Heart became my first “devotion” although I didn’t know the word at the time. For me, it was a picture of how much God loves us and a picture of Jesus’ love for us made visible. In fact, nothing about Christianity makes sense without love. God is love. Jesus is God’s love incarnate. When we see with the eyes of faith, we see with the eyes of love.
“For All Once Broken” can be found in Steve’s most recent album, High Above Our Way. Over the years it has become more and more evident that Steve has been blessed with the gifts of storytelling and music. This album gives listeners another opportunity to appreciate his God-given talents. Consisting of nine contemporary songs, it is great for liturgy, prayer and reflection.
Voicing: two-part Instrumentation: Guitar Topics/season: Eucharist, Longing for God, Real Presence, Suffering of Christ, Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest Communion Song, The Liturgy of the Eucharist Communion Song
Steve Angrisano is one of the most effective and versatile ministry leaders in the Church today. Always rooted in a spirit of humility and faithfulness, his ministry has grown out of who he is: a committed witness to the life and love of Jesus Christ. This makes him a popular choice for youth rallies, retreats, concerts, parish missions and faith formation workshops.