The story of Exodus – not the Biblical one, but the one written by Leon Uris based on the story of the refugee ship, featured a song that is quite beautiful. The music, the singing, but even the words. Exodus was about leaving one land for another.
The lands in which we were persecuted, for the land of our forefathers.
Sometimes when the world gets crazy – when kites are being used as weapons and former Knesset members are being arrested for spying, it’s time to step back. So many people grew up with this story. But how many people look at the words to the song…
For example, “I see a land where children can run free.” That’s exactly what Israel is today. A special place where children are respected, cherished, free.
Another part that has special meaning, “If I must fight, I’ll fight to make this land my own. Until I die, this land is mine.” The first part is perhaps the most significant. “If I must fight.” Fighting has never been our first choice. Not then, not now.
More, “This land is mine, God gave this land to me. This brave and ancient land to me.” Truth…then…Now.
Exodus Lyrics
This land is mine, God gave this land to me,
This brave and ancient land to me.
And when the morning sun reveals her hills and plains,
I see a land where children can run free.
So take my hand and walk this land with me,
And walk this lovely land with me.
Though I am just a man, when you are by my side,
With the help of God I know I can be strong.
So take my hand and walk this land with me,
And walk this golden land with me.
Though I am just a man, when you are by my side,
With the help of God I know I can be strong.
To make this land our home,
If I must fight, I’ll fight to make this land our own.
Until I die, this land is mine.