A Strange Way to Save the World Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"A Strange Way to Save the World" is a powerful and thought-provoking song that delves into the humility and unexpected nature of Jesus Christ's birth, as seen through the eyes of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. The song, performed by Janet Paschal among others, captures the essence of wonder, confusion, and ultimate realization that God's ways are not our ways, emphasizing the divine plan behind the nativity story. Through its poignant lyrics, the song invites listeners to reflect on the unconventional method God chose to bring salvation into the world.
### Breakdown and Analysis of the Lyrics:
1. **Joseph's Perspective and the Humility of Jesus' Birth**:
The song opens with Joseph reflecting on the unexpected journey that led him to Bethlehem. The lines, "I'm sure he must have been surprised / At where this road had taken him", express Joseph's astonishment at the unfolding events. This sentiment echoes the humility of Christ's birth, not in a palace, but in a stable. This scenario is contrary to human expectations of how a savior or king should come into the world, highlighting the theme of divine humility (Philippians 2:7).
2. **Questioning the Divine Plan**:
As Joseph contemplates the situation, he questions, "Why me? I'm just a simple man of trade / Why Him with all the rulers in the world?". These lines illustrate the perplexity and unworthiness Joseph might have felt, being chosen for such a monumental role. It reflects the biblical theme that God often chooses the most unlikely individuals to fulfill His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
3. **The Significance of the Manger**:
The reference to the stable and hay underscores the humble and lowly circumstances of Jesus' birth. It challenges the expectations of a messiah's arrival with grandeur and power, instead presenting a savior who is accessible and relatable to the common man (Luke 2:7).
4. **Mary's Role and the Virgin Birth**:
The song touches upon Mary's ordinariness with the line, "Why her, she's just an ordinary girl". This highlights the miraculous nature of the virgin birth, a fundamental Christian belief that signifies God's power and the fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 7:14).
5. **The Unconventional Salvation**:
The repeated line, "But this is such a strange way to save the world", encapsulates the core message of the song. It reflects on the paradoxical nature of Christ's incarnation and the divine wisdom in choosing a path that defies human logic and expectations. The incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus represent a unique approach to salvation, emphasizing God's love and grace (1 Corinthians 1:23-24).
### Bible Verse References:
1. **Philippians 2:7**: "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men."
2. **1 Corinthians 1:27-29**: "But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence."
3. **Luke 2:7**: "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn."
4. **Isaiah 7:14**: "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."
### Conclusion:
"A Strange Way to Save the World" is a profound reflection on the unexpected and humble beginnings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the depth of God's love and the mysterious ways in which He works. Through Joseph's perspective, the song invites listeners to ponder the divine wisdom behind the nativity story, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the unconventional path God chose to bring salvation to humanity.
