Jesus Walks Double Time

Earlier this week, Kanye West premiered his videos for his song “Jesus Walks.” He made three versions of the video--one he didn’t end up liking, one that was considered too controversial for MTV, and one that fits within MTV’s standards. Kanye premiered the MTV-friendly video (the third version) on Monday (on TRL) and the controversial version on BET on Tuesday.

Between the two versions I have seen, the better one is the so-called “controversial” version. Apart from the fact that it’s a beautifully shot video, the imagery is more powerful and better fits the song. This version features different storylines that fit with the song’s message that “Jesus walks even with the most hated people.” I won’t soon forget the images shown in this video of doves appearing from within blocks of cocaine and a Ku Klux Klan member who walks with a burning cross (while he himself is on fire).

The other less controversial version of the video isn’t really bad, but pales in comparison to its predecessor. The message is the same, but it’s told in a tamer style. In this version, you get scenes of a homeless man, a prostitute, and a gang member all arriving in a church to look for redemption.

Regardless, the song is very good and I hope it can help repair the idea that all Christians are like Ned Flanders, Jerry Falwell, or Pat Robertson. I consider myself a Christian, and at times I am ashamed at how disrespectful and intolerant some people can be under the “Christian” banner.