It’s been a time honored tradition in our family that we tend to play Jesus Christ Superstar at least on Easter Day when driving to our family celebration, or else we tend to try and watch it together in the days leading up to Easter. This year it was on repeat for the entirety of Holy Week.
The production is, naturally, controversial amongst Christians, but in our years of struggle and doubt, it was nevertheless the hand that continually pointed North. Even when cynicism and ennui were doggedly biting at our ankles, JCS remained inspiring, deeply touching, and existed as a constant reminder of where we wanted to be in our faith—a sort of promised land of authenticity and sincerity—even when we were lost wandering in the desert.
The last time my husband did a recording of one of the songs from the album (Heaven On Their Minds), I remember thinking I’d never known he could sing that well. And I have always known he was an incredibly gifted singer. This went above and beyond anything I’d ever heard from him before, both in technical ability and in passion.
It was hard to imagine he could have topped that, but I genuinely think this year’s choice is the best singing he’s ever done in his life. Something that would have felt impossible only a mere year or two ago.
I think it comes down to the authenticity and sincerity in a year where the Lenten season—and Holy Week more specifically—have proven deeply transformative.
Meditating deeply on the Passion throughout the week is not a joyous undertaking, and the solemnity of the season was indeed heavy on our hearts.
But today Christ Is Risen. Today is for rejoicing in His return!
So where Gethsemane is one of the most painful chapters of the story of the Passion, if not for Christ’s physical suffering then for his isolation and deep anguish in contemplation of what was to come, today comes the defeat of sin. The defeat of death. The triumph of our Lord and Savior, risen from the tomb on the third day. Hallelujah!
In that spirit, I wanted to share my husband’s take on Gethsemane, which he recorded on Maundy Thursday as part of our vigil for Good Friday. Perhaps the hardest song in the entire musical to sing, not only for how it is written, but also for what it is.
I hope you enjoy ❤️🔥
Happy Easter! He is Risen! ✝️
