The song Roxanne was re-released by the Police in Europe after the band’s popularity gained some traction. The lyrics of this song was inspired during a walk Sting took through the red light district while visiting Paris. Initially, the band thought their manager Miles Copeland would not like this non-typical song, imagining what it would be like to fall in love with a prostitute. As history unfolded, American listeners were introduced to Roxanne 4 years later through Police’s Synchronicity album in 1983.
Sting was not the only person intrigued by prostitutes as Matthew 9:9-13 conveys the audience Jesus concentrated on during his 3 year ministry. Jesus recognized that the healthy and righteous did not need his help. Thus, he spent his time outside of the disciples meeting with sinners like a divorced woman in John 4, another caught in adultery in John 8:1-11 and 2 different prostitutes named Mary. Although his own disciples did not understand Jesus’ reason for accepting prostitutes like John 12:1-8, he was a living example of compassion, forgiveness and love.
More than ever, there is a great disconnect within American culture. People dress differently, pierce multiple body parts and express themselves like never before in our lifetime. As a result, walls of prejudice, stereotypes and a wide range of beliefs have separated people before you even get to know them. Like a prostitute, who get’s strange looks from observers, preconceived opinions prevent strangers from ever exchanging words. May the love of Jesus, John 3:16-17, inspire individuals to display genuine concern like Sting to the Roxanne’s you encounter in life.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 