The song "Ancient and Brave" by John Mark McMillan explores the concept of God's presence and the suffering experienced by humanity. The lyrics suggest that God, being ancient and brave, is aware of and feels the weight of the pain and tears of every woman and every man. The repeated question, "Where is God at a time like this?" expresses a common sentiment when faced with hardship and tragedy, questioning the role of a higher power in such moments. The song suggests that God is not distant or absent but intimately connected to humanity's suffering. The lyrics also acknowledge the existence of rage and fear within people. Just as God feels the pain of women and men, He also experiences the consequences of their actions, such as the rage and fears that lead to violence and suffering. The song poses the question of whether humans would still desire the power that God possesses if they knew it would lead to the suffering they experience. It challenges the idea that power and control are worth pursuing at any cost. The remaining verses use metaphorical language to describe God's power and actions throughout history. It speaks of God cutting mountains with volcanic rage, lighting the sky on fire, and parting the waters, referencing biblical events such as the biblical flood and the parting of the Red Sea. The mention of drinking the mortal cup symbolizes God's decision to become human and experience the senseless acts of violence and suffering firsthand. It suggests that God took on the burden of humanity's pain by sacrificing Himself. Through these metaphors, the song emphasizes that God is not distant or untouched by the world's pain, but intimately involved in it. The lyrics convey a sense of questioning and acknowledging the complex relationship between God and the suffering experienced by humanity.
