Every year, for the last 50 or so, the garden city of Vina del Mar in Chile hosts what has become the most prestigious Song Festival throughout South America – screened live on TV all over the continent. This year it was won by the representative from Spain, Salvador Beltran who received a “Silver Seagull” and a cheque for 30 thousand US dollars. However, the winner was upstaged by Cuban singer Danay Suárez who had been disqualified in the final for changing the words to her song “Dejando el Mundo” (Leaving this World).

The words she inserted were a Christian message of hope, God’s love, faith in Jesus and the defeat of evil. Throughout the contest her song had been far and away the outstanding performance,
but she was aware that, according to the rules, she would be disqualified. Nevertheless, the unthinkable happened. After lengthy deliberations, the judges, in an unprecedented decision, awarded her an “Inspirational Prize” and a coveted Silver Seagull, plus the customary 30 thousand US dollars awarded to winners.

The 31 year old Cuban singer had only come to faith in Jesus and joined a church in Miami, where she is based, one year before. Her Cuban upbringing had instilled atheism in her heart, but she became inspired by the wisdom of the words from Psalms and Proverbs. As she received her prize on stage, with TV cameras rolling, she boldly announced: “Today God has trampled on the Serpent’s head,” as she proclaimed a message of salvation and blessing upon the nation of Chile.

In an interview back in Miami, she explained her sudden change of lyrics before the final. “I told my Father God, Father, we’re going to win a “Silver Seagull” for Cuba!” But He replied, “Danay, don’t let pride get in the way, you just do what you have to do…” “For me its more important to see souls saved,” she added. Since the event she has received hundreds of messages from Chilean churches saying how much they have been inspired and built up by her bold, public witness.

Source: Protestante Digital; Armonia Noticias

Bible Study: Joshua 1:9

AUGUST: PRAY DEEPER that the whole Chilean nation will be blessed by this event. Give thanks for the judges willingness to consider a special prize for Danay and the respect they showed for the things of God..