The members who comprise the contemporary Christian vocal group known as SPARK – Ryan Johnson, Melissa Whitehead, Angelina Whitehead, Camille Tullis, Greg Wright, Jaxon Moffitt, and Noelle Bybee, a former contestant on NBC’s The Voice – are making an indelible impact on the world through their upbeat, inspirational music.
Not only are these dynamic singers and performers exceptional role models for their peers, but they are perfect exemplars of the scriptures that teach, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16). Every song that they sing is a living testimony of the unconditional love that the Savior has for all His children.
In a recent Worldwide Youth Devotional, President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invited every young man and young woman of the Church between the ages of 12 and 18 “to enlist in the youth battalion of the Lord to help gather Israel” by doing five things that would not only change them, but would also help them to change the world. One of the things that he admonished the youth of Zion to do is “to stand out; be different from the world.” He said, “You and I know that you are to be a light to the world. Therefore, the Lord needs you to look like, sound like, act like, and dress like a true disciple of Jesus Christ.”
Heeding the invitation given by President Nelson, SPARK released an inspiring cover of “Wonder” by Hillsong United on their YouTube channel on Sunday, 17 June 2018. In a blog entry on their official website, also dated 17 June 2018, they commented that their new music video “gives a bold testimony of truth and the new perspective we gain when we find Christ and begin to walk in His light.”
As you watch the amazing video, ask yourself, “How have I seen the wonder of God in my own life?” The answer may be an eye opening and life changing experience for some as they come to realize that the wonder of God is manifest in each of our lives daily in many ways – not just in grandiose ways, but oftentimes in small ways which may seem to be insignificant, and which we may at times take for granted. “Now ye may suppose that this is foolishness in me,” said Alma, “but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise” (Alma 37:6; Book of Mormon). The Psalmist also reminds us, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork” (Psalm 19:1).
As a bonus, SPARK also released a follow-up video in which several of their friends – Shaun & Nicole Johnson (brother and sister-in-law of SPARK member, Ryan Johnson), Yahosh Bonner, and Scott & Ryceejo – answered the question, “How Have You Seen the Wonder?” Their responses are both inspiring and enlightening.
The members of SPARK have said, “We are dedicated to sharing the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ through our platform, including providing positive content on social media. We believe music can make a difference.”
*The lead image for this article was found on SPARK’s blog.
