13 December

Dear Friends,

The phrase “Slechte mensen zingen niet” has perplexed me since I first heard it in an Afrikaans song. The full version of the old Dutch proverb is: “Vrees niet waar weerklinkt het lied, slechte mensen zingen niet,” which translates to, “Fear not, where the song resounds, evil people do not sing.”

As we enter a season of singing—filled with carols and joyous celebrations—it's worth re-evaluating this old saying, especially amidst the ongoing uncertainty of global conflicts.The prophet Amos presents a different perspective on this matter: “Even though you offer me your burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them; nor will I even look at the offerings of your well-fed animals. Take away from me the noise of your songs; I will not listen to the melody of your harps. But let justice roll down like water and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”

From Amos’ perspective, singing can also serve to mask pain, injustice, and suffering. He warns against singing if it becomes a cover-up. As theologian Dirkie Smith reminds us, history shows that evil people do indeed sing. In Elmina, Ghana, you can find Psalms engraved in the chapel walls that sit above slave dungeons. One of the famous scenes from the movie Schindler’s List features soldiers firing happily while Bach plays in the background. Woody Allen’s quote makes the same point: “I just can’t listen to any more Wagner, you know...I’m starting to get the urge to conquer Poland.”

As we enter this wonderful singing season, may the melodies of our voices harmonize with the beauty we create in the world around us. Let our singing resonate in every corner of the globe as it celebrates new hopes and endless possibilities.

Rev Marius Louw