Maria
She's too young to understand
But old enough to feel the pain
Of living where no love can grow
With no hope for change
Maria
Her world is an angry place
But she makes sure the scars don't show
And with every hurt
Her tender heart is growing cold, but...
Who, who's gonna love Maria?
Who, who's gonna touch her
With the tenderness she longs for
Like a desert longs for rain
She's got a hunger deep inside
And with every tear she cries
She wonders if there's someone
Out there somewhere
Who's gonna love Maria?
She looks in the mirror now
And the little girl is gone
But still the search for someone's love
Goes on and on for Maria
But does anybody care
Or even notice her at all?
Is anyone listening close enough
To hear her call?
Maria, if you can hear me
Please know that you're not forgotten
Somebody's trying to get to you
"Maria" by Steven Curtis Chapman is a deeply moving and heart-wrenching song that tells the story of a young girl named Maria who is living in a world devoid of love and hope. The lyrics vividly portray the pain and longing in Maria's heart, as she navigates through an angry and harsh environment, desperately searching for someone to love and understand her.
The song was inspired by a tragedy that struck the Chapman family in 2008, when their adopted daughter, Maria Sue, passed away at the age of five. Maria had been adopted from China and had faced many challenges in her short life. This devastating loss led Steven Curtis Chapman to write a series of songs that would eventually become the album "Beauty Will Rise," where "Maria" is featured.
The song speaks to the universal longing for love and acceptance, especially in the midst of difficult circumstances. It reminds us of the importance of reaching out to those who are hurting and marginalized, to offer them the love and compassion they desperately need. Maria's story serves as a powerful reminder that every person, no matter their background or circumstances, is deserving of love and care.
In the Bible, there are several verses that relate to the theme of the song. One such verse is Isaiah 41:10, which says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." This verse reminds us that even in the darkest of times, God is present and offers us strength and comfort. It is a reminder that Maria, and others like her, are not forgotten, but are seen and loved by God.
Another verse that resonates with the message of the song is Matthew 25:40, where Jesus says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This verse reminds us of our responsibility to care for those who are in need, to reach out to them with love and compassion. It challenges us to see the face of Jesus in those who are hurting and to extend a helping hand.
The story behind "Maria" and the album "Beauty Will Rise" is a testament to the power of faith and hope in the midst of tragedy. In an interview, Steven Curtis Chapman shared how his family's journey through grief led them to a deeper understanding of God's love and sovereignty. He expressed that the album was a way for him to wrestle with his pain and find hope in the midst of it.
"Maria" is a song that touches the deepest parts of our hearts. It reminds us of the brokenness in our world and the need for love and compassion. It challenges us to be aware of those around us who are hurting and to extend love and care to them. Through its poignant lyrics and powerful melody, "Maria" invites us to join in the mission of bringing hope and healing to those who need it most.
