I feel like I’m inoculated from the power of music. I’m rarely moved by a song anymore. A hazard of being a music maker maybe. But God has moved me through this song, Death In His Grave, by John Mark McMillan over and over again.
It’s on his newest album, The Medicine, which releases today. Go get it. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Beautiful, innovative, poetic, intelligent, subversive, theologically robust, sonic sweet tea and biscuits, transcendent.
Enjoy.
Death In His Grave (Performance Video) from john mark mcmillan on Vimeo.
Lyrics:
Though the Earth Cried out for blood
Satisfied her hunger was
Her billows calmed on raging seas
for the souls on men she cravedSun and moon from balcony
Turned their head in disbelief
Their precious Love would taste the sting
disfigured and disdainedOn Friday a thief
On Sunday a King
Laid down in grief
But awoke with keys
Of Hell on that day
The first born of the slain
The Man Jesus Christ
Laid death in his graveSo three days in darkness slept
The Morning Sun of righteousness
But rose to shame the throes of death
And over turn his ruleNow daughters and the sons of men
Would pay not their dues again
The debt of blood they owed was rent
When the day rolled a newOn Friday a thief
On Sunday a King
Laid down in grief
But awoke holding keys
To Hell on that day
The first born of the slain
The Man Jesus Christ
Laid death in his graveOn Friday a thief
On Sunday a King
Laid down in grief
But awoke with keys
Of Hell on that day
The first born of the slain
The Man Jesus Christ
Laid death in his graveHe has cheated
Hell and seated
Us above the fall
In desperate places
He paid our wages
One time once and for all
Disclaimer: I wasn’t asked to write this post by John Mark, his label, his mama or anyone else associated with him and I’ve not been reimbursed for doing so. It’s just such stinkin’ great music that I couldn’t help myself.
Tater Mama says:
Oh my. That is amazing!
Shayne says:
John Mark McMillan is just all different kinds of awesome.
Jeff says:
WOW… Thanks Shaun for sharing… I just found a reason to go to Itunes and spend money…. sigh! John Mark McMillan nailed that one… I just pray other will hear it and understand… The man got up, and left death behind… for all of us.
Andy says:
You tweeted about this song a few weeks ago and I’ve been awaiting the release of the CD since then. Got it yesterday and I’m loving it.
Thanks for sharing
Josh says:
Gifted doesn’t begin to describe this fella…
Carole Turner says:
I like that song but I honestly detest “How He Loves”. Every version of it is awful to me. I know, I will be banned from commenting now, I’ve said I don’t like the anthem. Sorry.
Kelly Robinson says:
Losing. my. mind. such a relief not to see overly orchestrated hair and performance…there is a genuine grungy-grace too it. great song…great video too. rock on brother
Kris says:
Really lovely. From a poetic standpoint, it reminds me Rich Mullins.
Cindi says:
Absolutely powerful!
keith says:
Hear, hear!!!
Kevin says:
Absolutely, a great call Shaun. John Mark’s songs all truly connect with me, like the first time I heard “Welcome Home.” Take care, Kevin
Petra says:
All about Jesus! Glory to Him!