Deciding to have joy is an act of resistance. Embracing joy, especially in the face of adversity or authoritarian rule, is a forceful and defiant act, a way of reclaiming agency and challenging those in power. Joy contains the seeds of hope. Joy undermines those trying to control others through fear and intimidation. Yes, joy can be considered as bravery, for joy can take courage, as often expressed in the tradition of African American spirituals. “Yonder Come Day” and “I’m Gonna Sing!” are two new choir pieces that will remind us of the bravery and joy of celebrating your own culture and spirituality when surrounded by darkness. As Sojourner Truth said: “I will not allow the light of my life to be determined by the darkness around me.”
Thank you all for your comments. We’ve just posted the sermon on our YouTube channel. Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coeijjTr504
I agree with the other posters. Please make this sermon available. I want to rewatch it and share it with people. In my 10 years of attending, this was the most powerful sermon. I feel like I now have permission to be joyful and angry (about the current situation) at the same time. Danke sehr, lieber Michael.
I would also like to have Michael’s whole sermon available to share and to revisit myself – it was inspiring! Is it available?
This was a moving, motivating, sad, scary, joyful address.Te music was outstanding! I was in attendance, and would love to be able to revisit (rehear) the entire service (or message) recorded online and share it with my family. Is that available?