God/Rush

The first time I heard these songs, I was struck by how much they challenged me in my journey of following Jesus. Both are from the "Farewell To Kings" album by Rush. Years later, I am still struck by how profound and prophetic the lyrics are.

A Farewell to Kings

When they turn the pages of history
When these days have passed long ago
Will they read of us with sadness
For the seeds that we let grow?
We turned our gaze
From the castles in the distance
Eyes cast down
On the path of least resistance

The hypocrites are slandering
The sacred halls of Truth
Ancient nobles showering
Their bitterness on youth
Can't we find the minds that made us strong?
Can't we learn to feel what's right
And what's wrong?
What's wrong?

Cities full of hatred, fear and lies
Withered hearts and cruel, tormented eyes
Scheming demons dressed in kingly guise
Beating down the multitude and
Scoffing at the wise
Can we raise our eyes and make a start?
Can we find the minds to lead us
Closer to the Heart?

Closer To The Heart

And the men who hold high places
Must be the ones to start
To mould a new reality
Closer to the Heart

The blacksmith and the artist
Reflect it in their art
They forged their creativity
Closer to the Heart

Philosophers and ploughmen
Each must know his part
To sow a new mentality
Closer to the Heart

You can be the captain
And I will draw the chart
Sailing into destiny
Closer to the Heart