In the church of hip-hop, Run-D.M.C.'s Joseph "Run" Simmons, Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels, and Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell are the apostles who broke onto the scene some 30 years ago to spread the word of rap music one verse at a time.
But in the Pentecostal Church, Run is the chosen one. The founding member of one of hip-hop's most influential groups is actually an ordained Pentecostal minister who, for some time, has been preaching the word of God. However, the good preacher is still holding onto his musical roots, playing a DJ set at LIV this Friday.
"Stay connected!" Run recently tweeted. "Happy is that people, that is in such a state: happy is that people, whose God is the Lord." That's Psalm 144:15, one of several Bible verses peppering Run's Twitter timeline. But unlike some folks who tweet scripture, Run has a fun and friendly mission. His faith-based message isn't laced with self-righteousness. Rather than portraying himself as a model Christian or trying to convert people to his faith, the rapper gives off the impression that he truly wants to help his followers improve their lives through love and encouragement.
In the wise words of Rev Run: "Go forward! Work hard & be positive! Remember! The world owes you nothing because the world was here before you."
