Become New with John Ortberg The Most Courageous Song I’ve Ever Heard
Nov 26, 2025
This episode shares a touching true story from Burundi, highlighting the extraordinary courage of a Hutu teacher known as 'Little Bird.' In a time of conflict, he chose to pray for his executioners and led his fellow condemned in a powerful hymn of surrender. Discover how his final act became a beacon of hope, transforming soldiers' hearts and lives. The discussion emphasizes the profound concept of Christian hope during life's darkest moments, urging listeners to practice gratitude and trust.
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The Life Of Little Bird
- Little Bird (Benyoni) grew up joyful, musically gifted, and became a beloved teacher and school principal in Burundi.
- He recorded songs for a Christian radio station and led music whenever Corrie Ten Boom visited, making him widely known for faith-filled joy.
The Arrest And Final Request
- Soldiers rounded up Benyoni and eleven Hutu teachers and marched them to a hill to be executed amid ethnic conflict in Burundi.
- Benyoni accepted leadership, asked to pray for the soldiers, and requested to sing before they were shot.
The Last Song On The Hill
- Benyoni led the twelve condemned men in an old hymn, 'Out of my bondage, sorrow, and night, Jesus, I come.'
- They sang all four verses with full heart and then were executed by the soldiers on the hill.