RETRORELEASE: “Why Am I Here?”

The Universal Question

Is there anyone who has not asked “Why am I here? Where did I come from?  Where am I going?”

What IS the purpose of life?

Because I write songs based on scripture, I am usually writing “answer” songs.  This is one of the few songs I’ve written that ask questions without giving any answers.

And yet… this song resounded with many audience members who came to see the musical Hidden Treasures: A Musical Revue of the Parables of Jesus Christ. After performances, I routinely quizzed attendees about their song preferences and this song was mentioned many times as a favorite.

Wanda Sieber sings, "Why Am I Here"

Wanda Sieber sings, “Why Am I Here”

I love this song too, because – like most people – I have asked myself this very question.  This song, along with “Children of Light”, speaks to me, personally.

The Parable:

“Why Am I Here?” is the musical follow up to the retelling of The Parable of the Rich Fool, which is found in Luke 12:13-21.

Lynna Burton & David Robertson in the Parable of the Rich Fool

Lynna Burton & David Robertson in the Parable of the Rich Fool

This video clip begins with an explanation of parables.  The reenactment of the parable begins at :29 and the vocal begin at 2:35.  Lyrics to “Why Am I Here?” are here.

Wanda Sieber in The Parable of the Rich Fool.

Wanda Sieber in The Parable of the Rich Fool.

Take Heart!

Like the character I portray on stage, many people first read parables and think, “That’s it?  I don’t get it!”

Hang in there, my dear friends – parables are delicious stories whose deep truths are revealed to the listener over time.  These stories told by Christ have been the basis of many of my life-decisions and I treasure the principles I have learned through my study of the parables.

– Wanda