Evelyn Wanjiru - Celebrate/Shangilia Lyrics
Lyrics
Celebrate Jesus celebrate Jesus
Celebrate Jesus celebrate Jesus
Shangilia Yesu shangilia Yesu
Shangilia Yesu shangilia Yesu
Shangilia shangilia
Shangilia Yesu shangilia Yesu
Ametenda makuu
makuu eeehmakuu eeh
Ametenda makuu eeh
Bwana wa mabwana eeh
wa majeshi eeh
Jehovah adonai eeh
Shangilia Yesu shangilia Yesu
Shangilia Yesu shangilia Yesu
Video
Evelyn Wanjiru - Celebrate
Meaning & Inspiration
Evelyn Wanjiru's song "Celebrate/Shangilia" is a vibrant declaration and invitation to worship. The title itself embodies the song's core message, as "Shangilia" is the Swahili word for "celebrate" or "rejoice." This dual-language title immediately sets the tone for a song that bridges cultural expression with a universal message of faith and joy. The simple, repetitive structure of the lyrics, starting with the direct command "Celebrate Jesus celebrate Jesus" and its Swahili counterpart "Shangilia Yesu shangilia Yesu," makes the song highly accessible and encourages immediate, enthusiastic participation.
The foundation for this call to celebration is clearly articulated in the Swahili verses: "Ametenda makuu," meaning "He has done great things." This declaration provides the central reason for the worshipper's joy and thankfulness. The lyrics further elaborate on the greatness of the one being celebrated by referencing powerful names and titles for God: "Bwana wa mabwana" (Lord of lords), "wa majeshi" (of hosts), and "Jehovah adonai." These titles emphasize God's supreme authority, power, and sovereignty, highlighting that the "great things" are the work of an almighty and deserving God.
Released on December 6, 2018, the song's accompanying video typically captures the essence of a live worship experience, characteristic of Evelyn Wanjiru's presentations. The background often features a worship team and a setting designed to facilitate collective worship and expressive praise. The energetic repetition and clear message are well-suited for a communal worship environment, whether in a church service or a public event, aiming to unify believers in a shared expression of joy and gratitude towards Jesus.
The themes presented in "Celebrate/Shangilia" resonate deeply with various scriptural calls to worship and thankfulness. The declaration that God "has done great things" echoes sentiments found in passages such as Psalm 126:3, which states, "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." The imperative to "celebrate" or "rejoice" aligns with numerous biblical exhortations to praise the Lord, for example, Psalm 100:1-2 encouraging shouting for joy and worshipping with gladness. Acknowledging God with titles like "Lord of lords" and "Lord of hosts" reflects reverence for His supreme authority and power, referenced in scriptures like Deuteronomy 10:17 and throughout the Old Testament when speaking of the God of Israel's armies.
Ultimately, "Celebrate/Shangilia" functions as a powerful anthem of praise. It serves to shift focus from challenges to God's finished works and His inherent greatness. The song's directness and joyful energy are designed to inspire thankfulness, activate faith, and encourage believers to actively express their celebration of Jesus Christ for all that He has done and for who He is. It is an invitation to remember God's mighty deeds and respond with unbridled joy and worship.