September 13 - Elton's Emotional Eulogy: "Candle in the Wind" For Diana
True Nobility: Serving Others in Every Station of Life
This is the day Elton John released the single "Candle in the Wind 1997," a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, in the UK in 1997.
In today's lesson, we will explore how true nobility is defined not by titles or birth, but by our actions and character. We'll examine how Princess Diana's life and Elton John's musical tribute can inspire us to embrace our calling as God's royal priesthood. How can we embody true nobility in our everyday lives?
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." - 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
This Date in History
On September 13, 1997, the airwaves of the United Kingdom resonated with a melody that captured the world's collective grief. Elton John's "Candle in the Wind 1997" was released, a musical eulogy for Diana, Princess of Wales, whose tragic death just two weeks earlier had left millions in shock and sorrow.
Diana Spencer, thrust into the global spotlight at the age of 20 when she married Prince Charles in 1981, had captivated the world with her beauty, compassion, and vulnerability. Known as the "People's Princess," Diana revolutionized the public's perception of the monarchy. She championed causes others feared to touch, from AIDS awareness to the campaign against landmines. Her hands-on approach to charity work, often seen hugging AIDS patients or walking through active minefields, endeared her to millions worldwide.
However, Diana's fairy tale life was marked by turmoil. Her marriage to Prince Charles, strained by infidelity and incompatibility, ended in a high-profile divorce in 1996. Despite this, Diana remained a media favorite, her every move scrutinized by the press she both courted and fled.
On August 31, 1997, the unthinkable happened. Diana, along with her companion Dodi Fayed and driver Henri Paul, died in a car crash in Paris's Pont de l'Alma tunnel while being pursued by paparazzi. The news sent shockwaves around the globe, triggering an unprecedented outpouring of public grief.
Elton John, a close friend of Diana's, was approached to perform at her funeral. With lyricist Bernie Taupin, he reworked his 1974 hit "Candle in the Wind," originally about Marilyn Monroe, into a tribute for Diana. The opening line "Goodbye Norma Jean" became "Goodbye England's Rose," a nod to Diana's unofficial title.
John's performance at Westminster Abbey on September 6, watched by an estimated 2.5 billion people worldwide, was a defining moment of Diana's funeral. The single's release a week later was met with overwhelming demand. It debuted at number one in the UK, staying there for five weeks, and topped charts in numerous countries.
"Candle in the Wind 1997" went on to become the second best-selling physical single of all time, surpassed only by Bing Crosby's "White Christmas." It sold over 33 million copies worldwide, with all proceeds donated to Diana's charities, raising millions for the causes she had championed.
The song's impact transcended its commercial success. It became a cultural touchstone, a means for people to express their grief and celebrate Diana's life. The lyrics painted a picture of Diana as a compassionate figure who touched many lives, emphasizing her humanitarian work and her role as a mother.
In the years since its release, "Candle in the Wind 1997" has remained closely associated with Diana's memory and legacy. It serves as a reminder of her impact on the world and the outpouring of grief that followed her passing. The song's enduring popularity also speaks to the lasting fascination with Princess Diana and the continued resonance of her story with people around the world.
The release of this single marked a significant moment where music became a vehicle for public mourning and celebration of a beloved figure's life. It demonstrated the power of art to unite people in times of tragedy and to channel collective emotion into a force for good, forever linking Elton John's artistry with the memory of the People's Princess.
Historical Context
The release of "Candle in the Wind 1997" occurred during a period of profound change and reflection in British society. The 1990s had seen the royal family facing unprecedented scrutiny and challenges to its traditional role. Princess Diana, even after her divorce from Prince Charles in 1996, remained a figure of intense public interest and affection.
The decade was marked by a shift in public attitudes towards the monarchy, with many calling for modernization and greater transparency. Diana had played a significant role in this changing perception, often being seen as more relatable and in touch with ordinary people than other members of the royal family. Her high-profile humanitarian work, particularly her campaigns against landmines and her efforts to destigmatize AIDS, had earned her international acclaim.
The music industry in 1997 was at a crossroads, with traditional formats like CDs coexisting with emerging digital technologies. Pop music was diverse, with Britpop, hip-hop, and electronic dance music all enjoying mainstream success. In this context, Elton John, already a music legend, represented a bridge between classic rock and contemporary pop.
Globally, 1997 was a year of significant events. The handover of Hong Kong from British to Chinese rule marked the end of the British Empire. The world was becoming increasingly interconnected through the growing use of the internet and mobile phones. These technological advancements were changing how news spread and how people connected, setting the stage for the global reaction to Diana's death and the subsequent release of the tribute song.
The late 1990s also saw a growing culture of celebrity, with increased media focus on the personal lives of public figures. This trend had both positive and negative impacts on figures like Princess Diana, who often used her fame to draw attention to important causes but also struggled with the intense scrutiny of her private life.
In this complex social and cultural landscape, the release of "Candle in the Wind 1997" became more than just a musical event. It was a moment that encapsulated the public mood, the changing nature of fame and royalty, and the power of popular culture to shape collective memory and emotion.
Did You Know?
Elton John has only performed "Candle in the Wind 1997" live once, at Princess Diana's funeral. He vowed never to perform it again unless requested by Diana's sons.
Today’s Reflection
The concept of royalty has captivated humanity for millennia. Kings and queens, princes and princesses - these titles evoke images of power, privilege, and prestige. Yet, history shows us that a royal title doesn't always equate to noble character. Some monarchs have been remembered as tyrants, while others, like Princess Diana, have left legacies of compassion and service that far outshine their official titles.
This disconnect between title and character raises an important question: What truly defines nobility? In the eyes of the world, nobility has often been a matter of birth or bestowed honor. But God's perspective turns this notion on its head. The Bible introduces us to a radical concept: a "royal priesthood" composed not of those born into earthly monarchies, but of all believers in Christ.
Peter writes to early Christians, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV) This verse isn't speaking to a select few, but to all followers of Jesus. It suggests that in God's kingdom, true nobility is accessible to everyone, regardless of their earthly status.
But what does it mean to be part of this royal priesthood? It's not about wearing crowns or living in palaces. Rather, it's about embodying the character of Christ and serving others as He did. Jesus, the King of Kings, demonstrated this when He said, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Mark 10:45 (NIV)
Princess Diana, despite her royal title, seemed to grasp this concept. She used her position not for self-aggrandizement, but to serve others, particularly those marginalized by society. Her actions echo the biblical call to true nobility - a nobility defined by character, compassion, and service.
For modern Christians, this idea of a royal priesthood is both a privilege and a responsibility. It means we have direct access to God, no longer needing human intermediaries as in Old Testament times. But it also means we're called to represent God to the world, serving as His ambassadors in our daily lives.
In practice, this might look like advocating for the vulnerable in our communities, showing kindness to those society often overlooks, or using our skills and resources to benefit others. It's about recognizing that whatever our job, social status, or life circumstances, we have the high calling of representing God's kingdom on earth.
Elton John's tribute to Diana, "Candle in the Wind 1997," resonates with many because it celebrates a life marked by compassion and service - qualities that align closely with biblical ideals of nobility. While Diana's actions weren't explicitly tied to Christian faith, they exemplified the kind of selfless care for others that we, as believers, are called to emulate. This reminds us that true greatness isn't defined by titles or positions, but by how we treat others and the positive impact we make in their lives.
As members of God's royal priesthood, we're called to a higher standard of nobility - one defined not by birthright or worldly acclaim, but by our reflection of Christ's love and service to others. Whether in grand gestures or small daily acts of kindness, we have the opportunity to embody this true nobility, fulfilling our calling as representatives of God's kingdom on earth. In doing so, we not only honor God but also inspire others, leaving a legacy that, like the lingering notes of a tribute song, continues to touch lives long after we're gone.
Practical Application
Embrace your role in God's royal priesthood by intentionally serving others this week. Choose one area of your life—work, family, or community—and look for opportunities to show Christ-like compassion. This could mean offering help to a struggling colleague, spending quality time with a family member, or volunteering for a local charity. As you serve, reflect on how these actions align with your identity as part of God's chosen people, and how they represent true nobility in God's kingdom.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us into Your royal priesthood. Help us to embrace this high calling by serving others with the love and compassion of Christ. Guide us to see opportunities for service in our daily lives, and give us the courage to act on them. May our actions reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Supplementary Study
"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."
This verse reinforces our lesson's theme by emphasizing the importance of selfless love and honor in our relationships with others, mirroring the noble character we're called to embody as God's royal priesthood.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
This passage directly challenges worldly notions of nobility and success, calling us instead to a life of humility and concern for others' welfare, which aligns perfectly with our discussion of true nobility through service.
"The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
Jesus' words here provide a powerful reinforcement of our lesson's central theme, defining true greatness not by worldly status but by one's willingness to serve others, echoing the concept of nobility we've explored.
Final Thoughts
The concept of nobility extends far beyond royal titles or societal status. As followers of Christ, we are all called to a higher form of nobility - one that is defined by our service to others and our reflection of God's love in the world. This calling transcends our earthly positions, challenging us to see every role and relationship as an opportunity to demonstrate true greatness through compassion, kindness, and selfless action. By embracing this divine definition of nobility, we not only honor our status as God's royal priesthood but also leave a lasting impact that echoes through eternity.
Community Engagement
Share your thoughts or use these questions to get the conversation started.
How did Princess Diana's actions challenge traditional notions of royalty?
In what ways can we, as Christians, embody the concept of a "royal priesthood" in our daily lives?
How does the idea of true nobility being defined by service rather than status challenge your personal views of success?
Can you share an example from your life where you've seen someone demonstrate "true nobility" through their actions?
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In tomorrow's lesson, we confront the fragility of life through a rock legend's heart-wrenching loss. How do we find strength when our world crumbles in an instant, and what can we learn about cherishing every moment with those we love?
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Bonus - Did You Know?
The recording session for "Candle in the Wind 1997" took place at Townhouse Studios in West London and was completed in a single take.
The B-side of the "Candle in the Wind 1997" single was "Something About the Way You Look Tonight," which became a hit in its own right in many countries.
Despite its massive sales, "Candle in the Wind 1997" is not eligible for inclusion in the Guinness World Records for the best-selling single of all time because it was released as a double A-side.
The Pont de l'Alma tunnel, where Diana's fatal crash occurred, was named after a battle in the Crimean War and has long been associated with conspiracy theories due to its unique design and location.
In the week following Diana's death, florists in the UK reported selling enough flowers to stretch from London to Balmoral Castle in Scotland, a distance of over 500 miles.
George Michael, another close friend of Diana's, provided backing vocals for "Candle in the Wind 1997," though his contribution was uncredited at his request.
The Westminster Abbey performance of "Candle in the Wind 1997" was recorded and considered for release, but Elton John vetoed the idea, feeling it would be inappropriate to commercialize that particular rendition.
(1997) CANDLE IN THE WIND - ELTON JOHN LYRICS ("Goodbye England's Rose" Princess Diana, 1961-1997)
From the archives: CBS News reports on Princess Diana's death in 1997
Additional Resources
Diana: Her True Story - In Her Own Words - Andrew Morton
The Diana Chronicles - Tina Brown
Elton John: The Biography - David Buckley
The Day Diana Died - Christopher Andersen
While I absolutely do not like or approve of Elton John's lifestyle, I have always loved his music. My teen and college years were the 1970s, so his music has been a part of the bulk of my life, even today. He and Bernie Taupin were simply a musically genius duo. I truly admire what he did with this song and the fact that he will not perform it live except under specific conditions.
I really like the paragraph after Royal priesthood I think. About serving others. When Jesus came he said 2 things- love God and love your neighbor as yourself. It's that simple and I love that you incorporated it into this article. You embody that with your writing and it's important....it's what each and every one of us(that accepts Jesus) is supposed to be doing. It's an honor to know you my friend!