Chains Set Us Free

Listen you poor, puny, proud black child Standing on street corners and living in poverty. Listen you educated, sophisticated woman and man Seeking prosperity in this American society. Don’t you know: Chains set us free? Listen to this black sister’s voice People of color everywhere. It’s time you realized, our release from oppression Came only through the power of prayer. From Africa our strong-willed ancestors Brought rhythm, song and dance. Such gifts lifted wounded spirits And despite heavy burdens, they sought to advance. In bondage slaves cried out to God Just like the Israelites did in Egypt long ago. The heavier the chains, the more fervent the prayers Till finally God commanded, “Let My people go!” Don’t you know: Chains set us free? Slave ships delivered chained bodies Of a people who were born free Growing from belief in native religions to belief in Jesus They obeyed the LORD who urged, “Come unto me.” “Repent black child, come back to me,” Is Jesus, the Savior’s cry, “I am the Lord and I change not, On me you can still rely. “Call to me and I will answer you, And set you free once more. Trust me, wait patiently, and remember, From bondage to freedom, I, Alone, Am the Door.” You must never forget black child: Chains set us free.