"My folks they were always the first family to arrive
With seven people jammed into a car that seated five
There was one bathroom to bathe and shave in
Six of us stood in line
And hot water for only three
But we all did just fine
Talk about your miracles
Talk about your faith
My dad he could make things grow
Out of Indiana clay
Mom could make a gourmet meal
Out of just cornbread and beans
And they worked to give faith hands and feet
And somehow gave it wings
I can still hear my dad cussin'
He's working late out in the barn
The spring planting is coming
And the tractors just won't run
Mom she's done the laundry
I can see it waving on the line
Now they've stayed together
Through the pain and the strain of those times
Talk about your miracles
Talk about your faith
My dad he could make things grow
Out of Indiana clay
Mom could make a gourmet meal
Out of just cornbread and beans
And they worked to give faith hands and feet
And somehow gave it wings
And now they've raised five children
One winter they lost a son
But the pain didn't leave them crippled
And the scars have made them strong
Never picture perfect
Just a plain man and his wife
Who somehow knew the value
Of hard work good love and real life
Talk about your miracles
Talk about your faith
My dad he could make things grow
Out of Indiana clay
Mom could make a gourmet meal
Out of just cornbread and beans
And they worked to give faith hands and feet
And somehow gave it wings"
First Family Video
First Family Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
First Family: A Reflection on Faith, Family, and Miracles
Introduction:
Rich Mullins, an American contemporary Christian musician, is known for his heartfelt and thought-provoking songs that touch the depths of the human soul. One of his most poignant songs, "First Family," explores the themes of faith, family, and miracles.
Exploring the Main Messages:
"First Family" begins with Mullins reminiscing about his childhood. He reflects on his family being the first to arrive at gatherings, despite having to squeeze seven people into a car meant for five. The lyrics paint a picture of a simple, hardworking family who made the most of what they had. The line, "There was one bathroom to bathe and shave in, six of us stood in line, and hot water for only three, but we all did just fine," highlights their contentment and resilience.
Miracles and Faith:
The song then shifts its focus to the miracles and faith that characterized Mullins' parents. He describes his father's ability to make things grow out of Indiana clay, symbolizing his father's skill as a farmer. Mullins' mother, on the other hand, could create a gourmet meal out of humble ingredients like cornbread and beans. These talents are portrayed as everyday miracles, showcasing the extraordinary in the ordinary.
Mullins emphasizes the importance of faith and how his parents worked tirelessly to give it hands and feet. This suggests that faith should not be confined to mere belief but should be lived out through actions. Mullins pays tribute to his parents' unwavering faith and their ability to find beauty and meaning in the most challenging circumstances.
The Value of Hard Work and Love:
The song continues by highlighting the value Mullins' parents placed on hard work, love, and real life. He shares a glimpse into the struggles they faced, such as his father working late in the barn to fix tractors and his mother doing laundry for the family. Despite these hardships, they stayed together and found strength in their love and commitment to each other.
The verse, "Never picture perfect, just a plain man and his wife, who somehow knew the value of hard work, good love, and real life," encapsulates Mullins' admiration for his parents' resilience and their ability to prioritize what truly matters in life.
Inspiration and Song Story:
While the specific inspiration or story behind "First Family" is not widely documented, it is evident that Mullins drew from his own experiences and observations of his parents. Mullins had a close relationship with his family, and his songs often reflected their influence on his life. It is likely that "First Family" was born out of Mullins' desire to honor and celebrate his parents' faith and the values they instilled in him.
Analyzing the Biblical Foundations:
"First Family" aligns with several biblical principles and themes, making it a profoundly Christian song. Let's examine a few biblical references that support the messages conveyed in the song:
1. Contentment and Gratitude:
- Philippians 4:11-12: "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances."
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
2. Faith in Action:
- James 2:17: "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."
- Matthew 7:24: "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."
3. Value of Hard Work and Love:
- Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."
- 1 Corinthians 16:14: "Do everything in love."
The song's emphasis on the miracles found in everyday life aligns with the biblical idea of God's presence in all things. It encourages listeners to recognize and appreciate the wonders around them, no matter how small or ordinary they may seem.
Conclusion:
"First Family" is a touching and introspective song that reflects on faith, family, and the miracles of everyday life. It pays tribute to Mullins' parents and their unwavering faith, highlighting the values of hard work, love, and contentment. While the specific inspiration or story behind the song may not be widely known, its biblical foundations and messages resonate with Christian principles. Through its heartfelt lyrics, "First Family" invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and find beauty in the simplest of moments.
