When I first listened youth worship songs back in 2003, I thought the music just wasn't me. Nearly 10 years later, after I've gone through adolescence and get my taste changed, I can say I'm loving every bit of it, especially songs that could connect us to God in a deeper, more spiritual way. Frankly, worship songs are the best love songs ever written because, quoting from my friend, Christianity is not a religion, but a real relationship with God.
That album I was listening to was To The Ends Of The Earth by Hillsong United. They have been producing an album annually, I think, and if you haven't come across youth worship music before, please don't be surprised if you thought they're contemporary, pop or even rock music. But for 2011, in my humble opinion, I think Hillsong United has created an album that's so different, so enlightening and bringing us ever so closer to God that Aftermath is simply their best record.
And when's a better time than 2011 to bring new hope, more inspiring meaning to the word aftermath.
It's customary for a youth worship album to have a few fast and slow songs (praise and worship). But for the only quick-tempo song in Aftermath, it's one of the best Hillsong has composed, challenging us to take that leap of faith.
The first and last song of this album are my favourites, out of a beautiful range of tracks with simple, engaging lyrics. While it's better for me not to delve on the doctrinal meaning of worship because of my shallow theology knowledge, the songs speak for themselves - of who God is and what He can do in the midst of hopelessness. Uplifting us is the songs' resemblance of God's love, hope, power, strength and, especially, His word
The bridge, starting from 3:49, is why God understands and is able to solve and guide us through any hardships. Anthem of every believer!
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33. Through the songs' bridges, particularly those of Take Heart and Awakening. I could really feel that God would bring dawn to break the darkness, if only we would look upon Him and ask for His unfailing love.
Like the rising sun that shines
From the darkness comes a light
I hear Your voice say
This is my awakening
From the darkness comes a light
I hear Your voice say
This is my awakening
*To listen to all tracks, click here.