When a community comes together for a common cause, for something or someone they care about and believe in, something beautiful happens. They are hit with the realization that they are part of something much bigger than themselves. This was certainly the case when Ben Ellis, a Latin and Bible Teacher at Christ Presbyterian Academy in Nashville, looked outside his window to find the entire school, students and staff, standing there to support him in his battle with cancer. From below, they began to sing ‘Holy Spirit You Are Welcome Here’ and other songs of worship. According to a poster on Facebook, the decision was a spur of the moment kind of thing initiated by the high school principal himself. The video was shared by singer-songwriter Tim McGraw after he learned about it from a friend, a move that helped it reach tens of millions of viewers. Once you see it, you’ll understand why it has resonated with both religious and non-religious viewers alike.Four hundred students left their desks and showed up at their Latin and Bible instructor’s house to serenade and support him in his fight against cancer.
Here’s a sample of the lyrics: ‘Holy spirit, you are welcome here / Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere.’
That same day, the principal sent out a letter to parents explaining the change in schedule. Part of it read, ‘It was a powerful and moving outpouring of love that our students were able to bestow upon a man who loves us well.’ One parent commented, ‘Our children attend CPA and my high schooler LOVES Mr Ellis, he was her Latin teacher for 2 years. We ALL love Mr. Ellis and his precious family. The kids were giving back to him some of the love he has given to them. He is the definition of a teacher, a role model, a servant.’ Mr. Ellis’s own father, Bob Ellis, also responded on Facebook. “Ben is my son. Through his ministry and teaching, he has positively touched countless hundreds of lives directly and many thousands indirectly. He, his wife and children are a beautiful family.’
Another viewer wrote, ‘I’m not even religious and I wanted to take the time to say how beautiful this is. This is what being on this planet is supposed to be about. Taking the time to lift others up. Brings a joyful tear to my eye.’
**We aren’t here to over analyze your responses, labeling them as religious, spiritual, or simply representative of how communities should be. You can watch the video below, and know that whatever response you have is genuine.**