"Ring the Bells of Freedom!"

Our fieldtrip today was centered on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and our guide took us to the Separation Wall that separates Israel from the West Bank.  Without going too much into the politics of the whole issue, let me just say that the Lord has given me limitless opportunities having been born in America.  While the practical side of “freedom” can be complex (I refer the reader to modern politics), America is built on the right to exist and live happily without fear of molestation.  

Being right next to that wall was a surreal experience—it is something that has caused such remarkable controversy, such a barrier to life and civilization.  It separates families, causes political strife, and even generates armed resistance in some instances.  But, I take comfort in the fact that (at some point) the Separation Wall will come down; all do, even if not till “the End” (remember Berlin of ’89?).  Here’s a picture (there was a little boy drunk out of his mind across the street, by the way--grotesquely poetic):

I discovered a song by Bon Jovi that I listened to during the entire field trip yesterday to keep me in the right mood (“Bells of Freedom”).  The conflict is difficult (to say the least) for those living here, but there is still a message of hope: those hard moments in life that we think we can't overcome are surmountable, especially with the help of the Savior.  Even when faced with death, still they can "stand their ground and ring the bells of freedom!"  Think about the conflict in the Middle East as you read the song.  I’ll put some words in Mr. Jovi’s mouth and say that Jesus’ influence is implied in these verses ;)

"Bells Of Freedom"
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38BE-4fBiHE
or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WydNJpLi3OI)

I have walked all alone On these streets, I call home
Streets of hope, streets of fear Through the sidewalk cracks Time disappears
I was lost, on my knees On the eve of defeat
As i choked back the tears There's a silent scream no-one could hear
So far away from everything, you know it's true
Something inside that makes you know what you've got to do

Ring the bells, ring them loud
Let them ring here and now
Just reach out and ring the bells of freedom
When your world's crashing down like you've lost every round
Stand your ground
And ring the bells of freedom

Up the steps of the church Through the fields in the dirt
In the dark I have seen That the sun still shines for the one who believed
So far away, so full of doubt, you needed proof
Just close your eyes, and hear the sound inside of you

Ring the bells, ring them loud
Let them ring here and now
Just reach out and ring the bells of freedom
When your world's crashing down like you've lost every round
Stand your ground
AND RING THE BELLS OF FREEDOM!