Scarlette Jasper
Field Personnel in Appalachia
Many of you know that my late husband, Charles Brian Jasper, was a singer, songwriter, musician and DJ. Music was a huge part of our life together. He was greatly influenced by the Beatles and shared the love of their music with me. You may not think of the Beatles when you reflect on prayer, but there is a spiritual dimension to much of their music.
“Let It Be” was written by Paul McCartney (although credited to Lennon-McCartney). During a tense time in recording the title album, Paul was inspired by a dream where is late mother, Mary, appeared to him, stating these simple words, repeated like a mantra in the song “Let It Be.” They are simple words, yet they carry the weight of surrender. In Scripture, we hear a similar invitation: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Letting it be is not passive resignation; it is an act of trust. It is releasing control and resting in the quiet assurance that God is still at work, even when life feels uncertain.
In “All You Need Is Love,” credited to Lennon-McCartney, we hear a bold, almost childlike declaration. At first glance, it may feel overly simple; but spiritually, it reflects one of the deepest truths of the Christian faith: “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Love is not merely an emotion; it is the very nature of God, the force that holds creation together, the calling placed upon our lives.
Then there is “Imagine,” written by John Lennon. Though not explicitly religious—and at times even challenging traditional faith—it expresses a longing for unity, peace and a world without division. It’s as relevant today as when it was written. For believers, this longing echoes the prayer of Jesus in John 17: That all may be one. Even in its tension, the song invites us to consider how we might participate in God’s vision for reconciliation. And in the gentle meditation of “Here Comes the Sun,” penned by my favorite Beatle, George Harrison, we hear resurrection language. After a long, cold winter, light breaks through again. It reminds us that darkness does not have the final word. Hope rises. Joy returns. God’s mercies are new every morning.
Last but not least, the Beatle that I have seen perform in person the most times, Ringo Starr, probably has the most spiritual and faith-based themes in his music, especially in his later career. “Oh My Lord,” “Thank God for Music” and “Free Your Soul” are just a few. His tracks often reflect themes of gratitude, peace and spiritual seeking. Peace and Love, Ringo.
Music is a large part of my spiritual life; it lifts me and draws me closer to God. May you find peace and joy in various ways of experiencing prayer.
Prayer
Gracious and ever-creating God,
You speak not only through Scripture, but through melody, rhythm and the longing of the human heart.
In the quiet refrain of “let it be,” teach us to trust You more deeply. When we try to control what we cannot hold, gently remind us to rest in Your presence.
In the bold cry that “all you need is love,” root us again in Your truth—that love is not shallow or easy, but sacrificial, enduring and divine.
In the dreaming of peace and unity, stir within us a holy imagination—that we might become peacemakers in a divided world, participants in Your kingdom here and now.
And when we walk through seasons of shadow, bring us back to the promise that the sun will rise again. Let hope break through our despair, and light awaken our souls.
God of harmony and grace,
tune our hearts to Your Spirit,
that our lives may become a song of love, peace and faith.
Amen.