“Rise for Tomorrow” is a song of unity, hope, and action. It was conceived in response to the growing need for peace and understanding in our diverse communities. Rooted in the values of faith, the song serves as a call to Christians, Jews, and people of all beliefs to come together in a stand against violence, division, and injustice.

At the heart of “Rise for Tomorrow” is the message of unity and the power of collective action. The lyrics draw inspiration from both the Old and New Testaments, weaving together universal themes of peace, love, and justice. The song resonates with the biblical call to be peacemakers and to love our neighbors, acknowledging the rich traditions of both Jewish and Christian faiths while remaining inclusive and respectful.

Musically, “Rise for Tomorrow” blends contemporary and traditional elements, creating an anthem that is both inspiring and reflective. The melody is designed to be uplifting, encouraging listeners to join in a collective voice of hope. The chorus, “Rise for tomorrow, today we stand, with faith and love, hand in hand,” serves as a rallying cry, emphasizing the immediacy of the cause and the importance of standing together.

This song is not just an artistic expression; it’s a movement, a call to action for faith communities and individuals to step out of their comfort zones and make a tangible difference in their societies. It’s a reminder that change starts with us, in our communities, and in our daily actions. “Rise for Tomorrow” is an invitation to rise above differences, to celebrate diversity, and to work towards a future where peace and understanding prevail.

The song is also a testament to the belief that music can be a powerful catalyst for change. It can bring people together, transcend barriers, and ignite a passion for justice and unity. “Rise for Tomorrow” is more than just a song; it’s a message of hope and a blueprint for building a better, more inclusive tomorrow.

Title: Devotion for “Rise for Tomorrow”

Introduction:

Welcome to our devotion for “Rise for Tomorrow”, a song that calls us to stand together for peace and unity in our communities. This devotion seeks to deepen our understanding of God’s heart for unity and peace, drawing from the rich traditions of both Jewish and Christian faiths.

Scripture Readings:

1. Psalm 133:1 – “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”
2. Micah 6:8 – “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
3. Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Note: This reference, while from the New Testament, speaks universally to the value of peace.)

Reflection:

The call for unity and peace is a common thread in both Jewish and Christian scriptures. Psalm 133 celebrates the beauty of unity, reminding us of the goodness that comes when we live together in harmony. Micah 6:8 challenges us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly, embodying the virtues necessary for true community building.

In Matthew 5:9, Jesus speaks of the peacemakers, a principle that transcends religious boundaries, emphasizing the blessing and divine calling in being agents of peace. This reflects a universal truth appreciated in both faiths: peace is not just a divine gift but also a responsibility.

Discussion:

• How can we actively promote unity within our diverse communities?
• In what ways can we be peacemakers in our everyday interactions?
• Reflect on a time when you experienced true unity in your community. What did it look like, and how did it feel?

Action Steps:

1. Identify opportunities in your community where you can promote understanding and unity.
2. Engage in interfaith dialogues or community service projects that foster cooperation and peace.
3. Reflect on your daily actions and attitudes: are they contributing to unity and peace?

Prayer:

Dear God, Creator of all, guide us in our journey to build communities of peace and unity. Help us to embrace the lessons of our scriptures, to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with You. Grant us the wisdom to be peacemakers in our world, celebrating our diversity while finding strength in our unity. Amen.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on “Rise for Tomorrow”, let’s carry its message in our hearts and actions. Together, we can rise to create a tomorrow filled with peace, unity, and understanding in our communities.

Lyrics

Rise for Tomorrow

Verse 1

Hear the call from city to shore,
In this land of diverse lore,
A time to stand, a time to rise,
Underneath our Southern skies.

With open hearts, we make our plea,
To the churches far and wide,
Join us in this crucial hour,
In unity, we stride.

Chorus

Rise for tomorrow, today we stand,
With faith and love, hand in hand.
For a future bright and fair,
In this mission, we all share.

Verse 2

From the red earth to the sea’s foam,
In this vast land we call home,
We voice a song of unity,
For peace and harmony.

In every church, in every town,
Let the bells of freedom sound,
Gather ’round, let’s make it clear,
For justice, we persevere.

Chorus

Rise for tomorrow, today we stand,
With faith and love, hand in hand.
For a future bright and fair,
In this mission, we all share.

Bridge

Six weeks to go, the time is near,
A gathering of hearts sincere,
Let’s spread the word, let’s light the flame,
In love and peace, we proclaim.

Verse 3

This is our call, let’s not delay,
For our unity, let’s pray,
In every step, in every word,
Let our unity be heard.

Chorus

Rise for tomorrow, today we stand,
With faith and love, hand in hand.
For a future bright and fair,
In this mission, we all share.

Outro

As we march towards the day,
Let’s lead in love, show the way,
For a world of peace, let’s vow,
“Never Again Is Now.”

Lead Sheet

• Key of G Major:
• Tempo of 100-110 BPM
• 4/4 Time Signature:

Storyboard descriptions for music video

1. Introduction (0:00-0:20)

• Visuals: Slow, aerial shots of different Australian landscapes transitioning to urban church exteriors.
• Music: Soft, instrumental intro of the song.
• Emotion: A sense of vastness and tranquility, inviting viewers into a reflective space.
• Camera Movement: Smooth, sweeping aerial shots.

2. Verse 1 (0:21-0:40)

• Visuals: Diverse groups of people entering churches, synagogues, and community centers.
• Music: Gentle build-up of the melody, introduction of soft vocals.
• Emotion: Warmth and inclusivity, showcasing diversity.
• Camera Movement: Steady, close-up shots of faces, transitioning to wider group shots.

3. Chorus (0:41-1:00)

• Visuals: Congregations singing, intercut with images of community service and charity work.
• Music: Full chorus, more instruments joining, uplifting tempo.
• Emotion: Joyful and inspiring, highlighting communal engagement.
• Camera Movement: Dynamic, moving between close-ups and group shots.

4. Verse 2 (1:01-1:20)

• Visuals: Community leaders speaking to groups, interfaith meetings, people of different ages and backgrounds interacting.
• Music: Continuation of the second verse, a slight increase in intensity.
• Emotion: Cooperation and dialogue, a sense of coming together.
• Camera Movement: Gentle pans across groups, focusing on speakers and listeners.

5. Chorus (1:21-1:40)

• Visuals: People holding hands, forming human chains, community gatherings in parks.
• Music: Repeat of the chorus, maintaining the uplifting feel.
• Emotion: Unity and strength in numbers.
• Camera Movement: More dynamic, possibly incorporating overhead shots.

6. Bridge (1:41-2:00)

• Visuals: Scenes of past conflicts or protests contrasted with peaceful demonstrations and vigils.
• Music: A slight mellowing, adding depth to the emotional impact.
• Emotion: Reflective, acknowledging past struggles but focusing on peaceful resolution.
• Camera Movement: Slow-motion shots of peaceful gatherings, contrasted with quicker cuts of past conflicts.

7. Verse 3 (2:01-2:20)

• Visuals: Visuals of people making positive impacts in their community, like helping the needy, environmental clean-ups.
• Music: Building back to the full strength of the melody.
• Emotion: Hopeful, action-oriented.
• Camera Movement: Engaging, ground-level shots showing action and involvement.

8. Final Chorus and Outro (2:21-End)

• Visuals: A large, diverse group gathering in a symbolic location, maybe a famous Australian landmark, singing together.
• Music: Full chorus with all instruments, a grand, emotional climax.
• Emotion: Euphoric and triumphant, a sense of achievement.
• Camera Movement: Sweeping shots of the crowd, ending with a panoramic view of the gathering.
• End Credits: Roll over the final scene, with details of the event or call to action (website, contact info, etc.).