I know that the subject of the Lord comes up in a context like this and can make people feel uncomfortable. But I've been thinking about it a lot lately. I personally don't really believe that the Bible is a literal book of history, but I also believe that we don't know anything about how the universe works or who or why or what we are. Sometimes I'll think of a prayer or a hymn and put it in the context of my own philosophy. I find when I do this, especially with some of the older hymns, it really opens a door for me to find comfort in the world. I feel it the strongest with the Elvis gospel song "Known only to Him." The song is message to the Christian who is asking the reason for their suffering. The reply is that we will never know the reasons for God's action but never the less he is a constant and in control. I believe it is the same with the universe, I may never know the great hidden secrets of the universe but I know that it is bigger than me and I know that it will go on long after I'm gone. When I listen to the original recording I am really moved by the thought of a church choir singing this message, dealing with one of the oldest human dilemmas of being alive and not really being sure why. I think the great thing about this song is that it is open enough to put your own philosophy and your own story into it and hopefully find your own comfort in the words.
