10,000 Charms

In one of those articles that make you kinda scratch your head and just mutter, "No Kidding" Yahoo News tells us that the life span of Rock Stars is less than average, stating that they are likely to die prematurely. If that surprises you, it's time to come out of the bomb shelter.

The cat in the photo is Shannon Hoon, the former lead singer for Blind Melon. He's an Indiana boy. He felt incredible pain in his life. And he's dead.

I guess a lot of rock star deaths seem like accidents, but I have to wonder if people really just get to a point where they feel that there is no answer, no way out. No escape. Just typing that makes me think of a biography I read in high school about Jim Morrison entitled No One Here Gets Out Alive. Not a very hopeful title, and Morrison believed it to the point of death.

You and I may not know a rock star. We may not be able to come alongside of the next Shannon Hoon and point him to Life. But what about the other folks in our circles, our communities, who feel that there is no answer or no way out? They're there, you know. And Jesus stands ready to save them. Do we really live a life that reminds people - that clearly tells others - that in Jesus' arms there are 10,000 charms? May my life - and yours - be one that sings this old hymn . . .

Come ye sinners, poor and needy
Weak and wounded, sick and sore
Jesus ready stands to save you
Full of pity, love, and power
Come ye thirsty, come and welcome
God's free bounty glorify
True belief and true repentance
Every grace that brings you nigh
I will arise and go to Jesus
He will embrace me in His arms
In the arms of my dear Savior
Oh, there are ten thousand charms
Come ye weary, heavy-laden
Lost and ruined by the fall
If you tarry until you're better
You will never come at all