Pastor Reacts to “Hi Ren” by Ren

Ren’s GoFundMe for medical treatment: gofund.me/c6f207b3
I had not heard of Ren until a buddy of mine said that I had to listen to this young man’s song. Boy, am I glad that I did. Struggles that we face in life, whether mental, physical, or spiritual in nature, can have profound impacts on our whole being. Sometimes the church can get so caught up in identifying the problem, that we miss seeing the person before us. Thank you, Ren, for sharing so openly through song. I will continue to pray for Ren as he seeks treatment. His GoFundMe link is listed above.
Join Pastor Matt as he listens to Ren for the first time, performing “Hi Ren.”
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Written and Performed by Ren
Here is the link to the original video so you can watch it without any interruptions. Here’s the link: • Ren - Hi Ren (Official...
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Pastor Matt is the Lead Pastor at McMicken Heights Church in Washington state. A graduate of Simpson University with a degree in Christian Ministry and Leadership. He also enjoys gaming, particularly battle royale.
Hebrews 6:13-20 in its entirety. www.biblegateway.com/passage/...
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Section 107 of the Copyright Act provides the statutory framework for determining whether something is a fair use and identifies certain types of uses-such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research-as examples of activities that may qualify as fair use.
#Ren #reaction

[@sharis9095]

Because of a misdiagnosis Ren lived with physical and mental issues most people will never understand. It was almost a decade before a proper diagnosis (Lyme) and treatment started him toward health but there was long term and likely permanent damage. He is better but not well and is still in treatment. It gives Ren a unique perspective on life. Ren said he tried everything, every treatment, every religion, every fringe science. He also did a video called Dear God... where he questions the struggle - it is compelling. He did a song in which he uses the lyric... I walk through the valley of the shadow of sickness... I don't know why but that one sticks with me.

[@pastormattt]

That is 100% the Valley that he is in. I am moved by how many people commenting know so much about this young man. You, and all the other commentors love and support for Ren is impressive.

[@davemcc9642]

The song is called "lost all faith", Ren has been run through the mill with misdiagnosis for nine years, he is right now in Canada undergoing treatment for Lymes disease, his best friend commited the "S" word when he was younger and he still feels guilt for that, this man is an inspiration to millions of people that are connecting to him .... and the Renagades or Renaissance love him ❤

[@ladonnahafen9938]

Lost All Faith is a great picture of someone in their darkest moments who feels totally forsaken. Dear God is also a great one.

[@IronRaspberry]

@@pastormattt​​⁠ I 100% agree with all the comments above. Also, we know so much because Ren is an open book, transparent with his fans. He shares his thoughts, and his struggles with his fans, while trying to uplift others. He has a 1 million subscribers video that I suggest you watch, even if it’s in your own - it really gives inside into what kind of person he is. He also has some amazing interviews by reactors, that are worth checking out as well.

[@TheMCmace]

because Ren gives people hope@@pastormattt

[@stacym31]

Congratulations to Ren! He just got the #1 album in the UK!!! :)

[@dunny2000]

I’m not religious and neither is Ren as I have heard him say. But like Ren, I respect all religions without favouring any particular one. Just want to thank you for your understanding and compassion while reacting to this masterpiece of performance art. Great reaction.

[@pastormattt]

Thank you.

[@rickb.4168]

Why respect religions? seems weird to me. fear mongering, Slavery promoting, genocide, power grabbing, money grabbing. what's to respect?

[@hildehaerynck3088]

Religions divide people. Look at the news.

[@mysticstudios1210]

Ren confirmed himself agnostic today during the Treasure Hunt Live Stream that happened just before the premiere of Money Game pt 3

[@mysticstudios1210]

I should say, he has said that he has a fascination with others' depictions of the divine, which is why he mentions Samsara and Jana in other songs.

[@mburkitt7678]

My take is that the climax is the final verse, delivered by 'Hopeful Ren', in which he acknowledges that 'Dark Ren' exists as a part of him (two sides of a coin) and always will, but they are evenly matched (standing beside you) and that he, too, is relentless in the battle. This is also the first time Hopeful stands up to Dark and shows strength and resolve. In the monologue he said "There were victims and there were students", meaning there are those who lose the fight and those who learn to live with the fight. No one ever wins the fight and banishes Dark from their life.

[@bojkovszkyzsolt2280]

Scrolled down for this. +1

[@8Marko24]

Bravo for this comment. Underrated.

[@user-vj3pb6cg2h]

I felt that the final chorus of hoo's was the climax, where hope and chaos meld together in a crazy joyful melody and shout out to the universe. ❤

[@mburkitt7678]

@@user-vj3pb6cg2h I can see that and would agree on that interpretation as well.

[@sarcastichamsandwich5413]

I appreciate you pointing out the issues with the church on approaching mental illness. I was suffering from panic attacks in my high school years and the church I was going to told me I was being attacked by a demon. I found out a decade later that I suffer from severe social anxiety and I'm much better now that I'm on meds and am seeking therapy. I acknowledge that there may have been spiritual forces at play, but it really damaged my relationship with the church that no one suggested I see a doctor. Seeing a pastor recognize that really helps remind me that not all churches disregard mental illness and some may even acknowledge that they need to be solved with a doctor.

[@pastormattt]

Amen. I am glad to hear that your are doing well now.

[@todradmaker4297]

@@pastormattt In the days when Jesus walked the Earth many illnesses were thought to be the work of demons and exorcisms were a common treatment. In the Middle Ages they treated migraine headaches by drilling holes in the head to release the demons. Even in this day and age people like Ren are being misdiagnosed. There certainly are times when people need spiritual help but not at the expense of real medical solutions.

[@jasonstewart3996]

Welcome home my friend. To the Renegades. We are a proud group because our brother Ren has an amazing life and story to tell. It relates to us all and his intelligent views on mental health which he has suffered from aside from his other problems. He does a lot to lift us up and heal.

[@lesleyd2448]

Well said 💯💜

[@jonnybingo4062]

“That I won't retire I'll stand in your fire… Inspire the weak to be strong!” Inspirational. He doesn’t strum the last chord of the song to represent that it’s an ongoing battle and the dance is not done. “Face to face with the beast I will rise in the East.” I think of Jesus here without a doubt. Well done Pastor, God bless!

[@ProsperoFinch]

I associate the “face to face with the beast, I will rise from the East and settle on the ocean floor” as the personification of light, and of hope. From the preceding line, it is eternal and something we’ve met before. After every night, there is a dawn, and hope comes eternally in the form of the sun rising in the east and then eventually settling down across the horizon. It’s the cycle Ren talks about, that darkness and light are both eternal, and with the light of hope one has the strength to stand up to the lies and negativity of darkness

[@citizenY]

​​​@@ProsperoFinch "With the Light of Hope..." ✨🙏✨ Helping Others Personally Evolve

[@melaniebryant893]

I've always wondered if this is a reference to Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.

[@notmartinlewis]

Ren is a self-confessed Christian, so it may well be.

[@SandraP3796]

Beautiful reaction Pastor🙏🏻. Ren has been through hell and is still battling while getting treatment in Canada. His music keeps him going and he creates the most amazing music. He is a special person.

[@rodgersmith6891]

Hope you do more Ren reactions ! Your reaction to this was great, in particular, I hope you listen and give a reaction to Ren's song "Dear God".

[@Fertho]

I second the suggestion of Dear God.

[@emmafrench7219]

Me too ✌

[@pastormattt]

I will have to start a list of videos for review/ reactions. I look forward to hearing "Dear God", I can only imagine!

[@johnnybow7045]

One of the realest, most humble and most interesting reactions to this song I've seen so far (and I seen quite many). Thank you, sincerely!

[@pastormattt]

Thank you Johnny.

[@Lynds77]

​@nemoylacoy agreed , Matt I love your analysis with some insight on the scripture as well, please never stop

[@janmulcahy1458]

Ren is one of the most Jesusy people alive. He promotes kindness, love and compassion towards all and has had the effect of inspiring most who listen to his music. If you liked this, welcome to the Renegades 😊❤

[@Ink_Panther]

very true! Ren said Music is the closest thing to God that he knows. One could say on that basis, Ren is his enbodied Son/Prophet/Redeemer of Humanity/etc and the dedicated members of the reactor community are his apostoles, the Renegades are his Followers. An interesting concept!

[@janmulcahy1458]

@@Ink_Panther shall we start a cult that worships the pig boi😂😂😂❤️🐷 all hail his crispy baconness!

[@Ink_Panther]

@@janmulcahy1458 Ren has a photo with a white T-shirt on that says "CULT LEADER" , so I think he is in 😆😁

[@janmulcahy1458]

@@Ink_Panther excellent. I'll put his name on the list for senior druid 😂😂❤️

[@mortenrl1946]

@@janmulcahy1458 Commence decadent satyr prancing! 🤣

[@PoliticallyPink]

Really fantastic reaction! I loved that you saw his struggle as bigger than him before he shows that aspect. More Ren!

[@pastormattt]

It may turn out that I react/review all his songs. He seems to have a lot that are hard hitting and very impactful.

[@dmj4966]

Ren isn't particularly directly religious as far as I know, but as religious metaphor is universally understood it is a good shorthand motif. That said, if people can directly relate on a religious level and it helps them I suspect Ren would have no issues with that

[@pastormattt]

I don't know his thoughts on religion. I would assume he has had some positive encounters and some negative ones. But his work is very much relatable to Christians.

[@cultivatinggrace]

Ren is an explicitly self-proclaimed agnostic, but he does enjoy the symbolism of many different religions’ imagery. I’m sure he doesn’t mind that Christians find meaning in the way he uses some of these themes in his music.

[@IsaacDDuke]

@nemoylacoy yeah, like Romans 7. My pastor was preaching on that long before I saw Gollum/Smeagol. Simul Iustus et Peccator

[@danoodle72fly]

I would say 'spiritual', not religious

[@scottw5253]

Did you notice the shadows on the floor? One side the shadow is very dark, the opposite it is a very light shadow. The attention to detail in this video is exquisite. Ren is the producer for both the music AND the videos - this one and ALL of the rest of his fairly extensive catalog. He's a generational talent and I firmly believe that the spirit is working through him as he's become an inspiration for millions of people all over God's earth.

[@etechconnect48]

Yes. Very well said. You framed how I feel about this wonderful talent.

[@swyts]

I've thought that is one of the most unnoticed things, but there's a lot going on. Especially with the spoken word mention of shadows, even looking to his right where the darker shadow was when he mentioned it, I have to think it was intentional. I'd also say the shadows are dancing at different points, but you mainly see it with the head on, steady camera.

[@pastormattt]

The use of light was a masterpiece. The stage was obviously lit from other sources but those mixed with the two lamps in the background. Turning on and off, brightening, flickering, going out. I totally agree.

[@chipsounder4633]

Notice when he looks to his left, the lights hardly flicker and he has a calmness. When he looks right, the lights flicker and he has a sarcasm to his tone of voice. Its like that voice in your head that says one more drink wont hurt but putting down the drink is more rewarding in the long run. We all have these battles that aren't seen but are very real and can take over your life. Respect and love ❤ look after each other.

[@davideastham]

Ren's genre = Yes. Welcome to Ren theater. Ren is the most amazing soul I've seen in my 55yrs of life. I'm glad I found him last year and if you jump in, welcome to the rabbit hole.

[@gabbymcclymont3563]

Rens rabbit hole is wonderful and so positive. The extra money he rased £21k he gave to a RNLI station. It the UKs life boat, the station had tryed to find his friend who comited suaside, what a positive thing to do.(sorry im dyslexic)

[@pastormattt]

This song brings a lot of issues to the forefront that need to be discussed.

[@TheSpeakEasyLounge]

I consider this as Acceptance. Learning to live with and understand both the dark and the light, instead of fighting it. He is both. We all face these demons and deal with our own struggles. It's how we handle this, is what determines the kind of Human we become. I heard you say you have another channel, but you've hit the pinacle of artists to react to, if you continue on this journey there are so many amazing artists and performances out there that will blow you away. This is performance art and Ren is a master storyteller. I am not a rap fan, but there isn't anything he's done that I don't like. He is pretty genius! Congrats on the new channel, let me know if I can ever help out with tips, especially as it pertains to copyright claims. I've become pretty good at dealing with it all. lol. Cheers- Jen/The Speak Easy Lounge

[@helenjarvis7755]

Watching Ren for the last 9 months has been one of the informative and inspirational things I have been involved in for years Have been a follower of Jesus for 43 years since 17. During that time spiritual abuse from within the institution of church nearly destroyed me The last 12 years have been a liberation and adventure in the Spiritual meaning of life I asked for something to remove all the religion and this mans music has been part of the answer and afirmation in the Love that shines in the light and darkness of this life. It is a glorious and challenging dance Love in Jesus 💛

[@pastormattt]

Amen. I am sorry to hear that the church and organized religion nearly destroyed you. I have been sharing with my congregation lately that we need to not hinder people in their walk with Jesus. And there are some things that we need to adjust, change focus. We cannot lose sight of the fact that Jesus loves people, he wants all people to know Him.

[@tinymusikcodottv-Musikverse99]

@@pastormattt Nice. Teach them not to worship people. to not worship billionairs and politigians

[@mack_73]

I'm not religious, but thank you for the beautiful prayer. For me it's the thought that counts and you seem like a lovely person.

[@Silkytoaster]

Agreed - I think Ren would be very touched if he knew .

[@NixyRose72]

Ren is a one-of-a-kind artist. He's genius and humility and talent and skill all rolled together, and he's inspiring and also just a really nice guy who's been through a load of hellish circumstances. He really has inspired a love from his fans. God bless! Great reaction ❤

[@junction6_m27VNC]

Hi Ren is a great introduction to Ren, he’s from the UK and some of his new songs are all about fun and showing what a great wordsmith he is they are not as deep or meaningful as Hi Ren, The Tale of Jenny and Screech (full version) is Rens almost 14 minute masterpiece and a very difficult and emotional watch but is something that everyone should see

[@TheEverydayPoet]

My parents raised six kids at long distance from the community where they grew up, and my mother relied on women's magazines for our upbringing. Ren, in his formative years, had books, the internet, music, and his own mind. The wide variety of those exposures and explorations contributed to the exceptional variety of his skills and creations. He truly doesn't flinch from life... and he inspires others accordingly through an artistic kind of embrace. Thank you, Matt, for contributing to this variety and value by sharing your insights and perspective. Welcome to the Ren community.

[@JensRandolff]

Here is some additional information on Ren's story that I gathered from old newspaper interviews, articles, and Ren's public livestreams and posts. A handful of people frequently post an earlier version of my comment to various reactions that they copied and pasted verbatim, so if this is a repeat just ignore this comment. I keep editing the information, as needed, and have removed details about Ren that some found to be too personal, such as his full name and D.O.B. All the information here was gathered exclusively from sources Ren personally approved for public release. Ren is a Welsh musician/independent artist/producer, self-taught multi-instrumentalist. He pursued a career in music from an early age. In 2009, while studying music performance at Bath Spa University, Ren began to experience health issues and was struggling to attend his lectures, which eventually caused him to discontinue his studies and return home. In addition, Ren was signed by Sony Records in 2010 and was working on an album when his health deteriorated to the point that he was unable to go on; consequently, his contract with Sony was dissolved. Ren would later relocate to Brighton. Ren's illness often kept him in bed for up to 23 hours daily. Ren was initially misdiagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome, which led him to experience psychosis and develop PTSD. It would take seven years before a doctor in Belgium finally correctly diagnosed Ren with autoimmunity, Lyme disease, and resulting damage to the brain, organs, joints, and PTSD. Ren eventually underwent stem cell therapy in the United States, which improved his health, but it has not been a cure. Ren is in Calgary, Canada undergoing treatments such as IV therapy and other interventions five days a week, as well as surgeries (wisdom tooth removal and cavitation surgery). His Canadian doctor discovered that Ren also developed a condition called Mast Cell Activation Disorder (MCAD), which has affected the myelin sheath in his brain, his thyroid, and adrenals as well as his bones/joints. Hence, Ren is receiving additional treatments for this previously undiagnosed condition. He recently took a break from treatments and returned to the UK to visit family and friends, and to produce some very ambitious musical projects to be released soon. Let's keep supporting Ren as he undergoes his treatments. Check out and subscribe to his channel; if you are a content creator, ask your audience to subscribe to Ren. Ren's YT channel just surpassed 1 million subscribers. and his videos have garnered millions and millions of views. Listen to some of his earlier work, like and comment on his performances, and let's lift Ren's spirits. If you are a believer, pray for him. Ren is an artist with something to say to the world, and his work is important in these troubling times. Someone has finally created a Wikipedia page for Ren, so there is additional information available.

[@arklilbro]

Hi jens

[@yonahgrossman7319]

Ren asks some pretty tough questions of your boss in his song DEAR GOD. Should be right up your street.

[@pastormattt]

I have already added this one to the list that is growing by the comments.

[@JohnnyRingoB42]

He's not our boss, he's our loving father.

[@h4m4k1r1]

​​@@JohnnyRingoB42when will you guys accept the truth. It is all a made up story. It is fantasy. Every culture have there own ideas of god or gods, to explain what they can't cope with or understand

[@cvall1710]

Matthew 5:11 - “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.

[@Butterflyandhearts95]

A beautiful prayer for Ren. God bless you.

[@user-ol8by5qt8l]

Wikipedia - Ren Gill Also, I noticed you didn't subscribe. Join the one million RENigade subscribers and help support his music and medical needs.

[@pastormattt]

You are totally right. That was a quick remedy.

[@phaedralewis285]

Ren went nearly 8 years misdiagnosed and being told that basically it was in his head, which led him to doubt everything, feel hopeless, battle with psychosis, and even wishing at times his illness would claim him. He wrote a song, Dear God, which shows the fear and doubt he began having. My heart breaks at the thought of how lonely and lost he must have felt. But I am so glad that now that he is doing better, his new album, tracking to possibly debut at #1 in the UK, is a collection of more hip hop / rap songs that he wrote while battling his illness. Lost, Lost All Faith showing just how desperate he was. I find it amazing how he can be so vulnerable showing all sides of himself during this battle and not shying away from topics of faith and mental health. It seems to be touching so many people in such a positive way. Even his very dark stories, like Jenny and Screech shed light on generational abuse and start conversations that may help people.

[@christinemclaurin2631]

What a beautiful way to end a reaction video! ❤ Have a blessed day sir.

[@adtheladj]

Hey. Really enjoyed this reaction, really sincere and loved the prayer at the end. Thanks for sharing and as others have said, watch Dear God, would be awesome to get your opinion on that one - Lost All Faith is an interesting one to watch, too. Welcome to the Ren rabbit hole! Blessings!

[@pastormattt]

Thank you. We may just have to see how deep the rabbit hole goes!

[@elkookoo]

You're not fighting to win. You're fighting not to lose. You're fighting to live another day so you can keep fighting

[@NixyRose72]

Every second of every day... it's exhausting. Sometimes, you just want to stop dancing altogether. Bow (or, in my case, curtsy) out and just say goodnight. Excellent description, though. 😊

[@maccart67]

Well said mate, thank you 🌻🇦🇺

[@catherinehodges2018]

LOVED your reaction. I would really like it if you would react to The Tale of Jenny and Screech (full version) Keep up the good work!!!

[@johnnybow7045]

Yes, please!

[@pastormattt]

That sounds like an awesome title. I have never heard it. I will add it to the growing list of recommendations.

[@mikepiccione886]

Thank you for what you do I appreciate this video😊

[@pastormattt]

Thank you Mike.

[@joelspaulding5964]

We ALL go through this to one extent or another. The archetypes of angels and demons, the modern Gollum and Smeagol- they hit all of us, for a reason. Excellent reaction

[@karend582]

Thank you for praying for Ren at the end. I can relate to his struggle with hope and despair. Doctors can only do so much. When I finally turned to the Divine Physician, Jesus, I started to get better. It is a long journey and I am held up by grace and prayers.

[@Stickywicket1keet]

His story is a play, a thing that sticks and makes you listen

[@mariamanasewitsch2977]

The song resonates to every generation bcuz at some point we’ve all battled our inner negativity. There’s 3 “persona’s” the last Ren accepts that there’ll always be negativity & he’s resigned to continue on his journey with both sides working together. Thank you for your reaction. I enjoyed it immensely.

[@TheEverydayPoet]

Each reactor contributes fresh aha's like you mentioned. There seems to be no end to these wonders!

[@lisas6388]

I am not religious, but I very much appreciated your prayer at the end. Thank you❤

[@vanessadrazich8535]

Ren has Lyme disease that he has severely suffered through for ten years and is been in Canada getting a new treatment. When he was misdiagnosed they put him on phyc meds that made him crazy. He also lost his best friend while he was going through this to suicide. You should listen to the live version of freckled angels dedicated to his friend Joe

[@pastormattt]

Oh man. I hadn't heard about his friend. I will check out "Freckled Angels".

[@vanessadrazich8535]

@@pastormattt yeah, Ren was running to get to him before he jumped off a bridge and he was gone when he got there. Check out the song suicide too. He talks about it at the end

[@Silkytoaster]

@@pastormatttRen made the song Freckled angels about 10 yrs ago in memory of his friend Jo who died then this yr he released a song called Su!cide which talks of his struggles with that topic then he shortly after released a much more hopeful song For JO -where he sings about his grief on loosing Jo . All three songs are absolutely brilliant .

[@AudioVile]

Your reaction was VERY insightful!! You picked up on things with your first listen that I didn't recognize until 4 or 5 times. I've listened to this 'official video' many times. I have also listened to at LEAST 50 reactions. Many reactors mention Smeagol and Gollum, but you were the first to recognize the differences Smeagol/Gollum versus Ren/Ren. I hadn't thought of that after EASILY 100 times hearing this. You are VERY perceptive. I'm sure that help you a great deal as you follow your path. Best wishes! Great reaction!

[@pastormattt]

Thank you.

[@Chitsukee]

The pendulum is a dance I have been forced to learn too. Sometimes I forget and start fighting to win again. But trying to win against a pendulum is foolhardy, and every sway back feels like a loss of battle, along with the fear of failing the war. It's easier to live with it if you know that just as the pendulum sways away from you into worse, it will always come back into better. It is the eternal sway that gives comfort and faith in recovery. For me at least.

[@user-dy7bv4he2d]

I'm Buddhist but I love your reaction. Welcome to Ren!

[@gailhogan93]

Ren to me is very relatable. I'm glad he uses his music to reach others who are suffering & giving his beautiful voice to end Mental Health Stigmas. 🙏

[@JesseJames7-8-9]

Hey, I’m agnostic and very secular. However I was moved by your prayer for Ren. Thank you 🙏

[@pastormattt]

Thank you. I offered what I have.

[@markanderson8631]

Ren is a once in a generation talent… I am a Christian, but I’ve also questioned God, myself at times… as well as millions of other people, including Ren… he is on another level than most artists musically… I just wanted to say I genuinely loved your reaction and comments

[@lisamayreed6399]

I pray for ren and myself others who live with these battles❤ ty so much pastor for reacting ❤

[@craigmitchell604]

This whole reaction was quite simply…very nice. Praying for Ren was so very beautiful. Thank you.

[@joshfreeman5488]

Our boy REN just hit #1 Album in the UK billboards 🙌🏼🫶🏼

[@moraysimpson2710]

This is one of the most important songs ever, describing the human condition as well as Shakespear could and how we can rise above what is put in front of us to try and bring us down. Hope wins out, which is such an important message to us all, as we all will be brought to our knees at some points in our life and we need a way to find a way back up to the light.

[@ozwaltreacts4709]

Amazing reaction man and, to be honest, I came into it mad judgmental, because I've been through it trusting churches. But when you talked about a slaughterhouse it drew me in. I have the same illness he has and it's been a bunch of times I was locked in a shed literally unable to leave and dying from allergen exposure that I felt like one of the millions a year who die from that, and I expected it. It felt so alone like I was in a slaughterhouse. I managed to catch it and stayed alive. Lots of people don't. You seem to see things and I respect that. Got a subscriber from me.

[@rockyroad64]

Thank you pastor. Thank you for your insight and prayer for Ren. "Dear God" is a very thoughtful provoking video you might check out. I'll be back to watch it! God bless.

[@noraenssor]

Pastor Matt, many thanks for being "brave" enough, and caring enough to react to this autobiographical piece of art. - Many thanks also, for laying Ren's case (& the cases of many thousands of others) at the feet of our Lord and Saviour, Yeshua Hamashiach 🙏🙏🙏.

[@pastormattt]

Amen.

[@lilgit9969]

Despite everything Ren has gone through and is going through, he never fails to lift up other people always. He's an absolute inspiration to so many people to be a better version of themselves.

[@a382453]

Ren was bitten by a tick and contracted lime disease... then misdiagnosed for 10 years as mental problems while the untreated damage grew.

[@pastormattt]

That is what I have heard. I knew nothing about him till after filming this video but I have been looking into his life more. I think the pig masked, bloody, nurse that wheeled him in was a testament to how he felt towards the medical treatment he endured.

[@stevevaden3971]

The battle of good vs evil rages on. We will not experience total victory until Christ returns.

[@memremacm]

Ren has been greatly affected by the suicide of his friend Joe many years ago. He has some very special music about that. “For Joe” and “I Forgot How to be Me” are great representations of that affect. He has a duet called “Chalk Outlines” which is vey moving as well. Of course he has the sillier side you may not appreciate, but so much of his music is heartfelt and loving. I hope you will check out more. 🥰

[@cilyoda]

I’ve watched 100+ reactions to this video. It’s really nice to hear a new perspective, thanks, subscribed.

[@pamdei9699]

I absolutely loved your reaction. Much love

[@philneff2457]

"The Church" and I rejected each other (I was 'Cast Out') 25 years ago. Though I've continued to be a Christian, in that I continue to live by His teachings, I've viewed most churched people with disdain, amplified by their utter disregard for what Jesus said was the most important thing, to treat others as we want to be treated. I think I would go to your church. You seem worthy to lead me in my quest.

[@pastormattt]

Sorry to hear that the church has placed a hinderance for you with your relationship with God. I apologize. Most "sins" are a failure to love. Keep on loving people.

[@deanweir8458]

Great reaction. Nice to hear it from a religious perspective. Lovely prayer for Ren 😊 much respect for that. You should react to Sick boi, Suicide, Dominoes, and the Tale of Jenny and Screech, which is in 3 parts. Watch/listen to all 3 parts together and in order. Take care 😊❤

[@ethanatk]

I lost my faith a long time ago, but this reaction was nonetheless incredibly moving, especially the prayer at the end. GG Pastor Matt

[@pastormattt]

Thank you for sharing. I have talked with many that have lost their faith. My prayer for them, and now for you, is that God would restore it again.

[@renejensen7799]

If REN ever see this reaction, im sure he will apreaciate you did pray for him Pastor:)

[@mldkenny]

The beauty of making this comment, not only to say what an amazing reaction you have done, but it is seeing someone really understand Ren and the power of his message and also knowing that I have become part of an unique community with the Renegades. I never experienced such a loyal and active fan base, something really special. There are many sides to Ren and I would suggest something like " Penitence " " Humble " or " Ocean " if you were to do more, I have subbed so I hope so!

[@ladonnahafen9938]

Ohh! Humble is a great suggestion. Dominoes too!

[@kalenaquinones7963]

Thank you, Pastor, for your prayer. We all want him lifted up.

[@matthewhowsden1924]

I appreciate your calm, thoughtful take. Thank you.

[@amyf9835]

Thank you for viewing Hi Ren with care and understanding and not judgement which I have seen some reactions fail to do. To view Ren and a few other artist putting their hearts out about mental illness or struggles they have had with both faith and humanity can often be hard for some to see, but for many of us it is like taking a deep breath and feeling some tension release. Songs like this and others have expressed emotions, conflicts, and thoughts that are hard for many of us to convey. Sometimes these struggles take us further into the shadows for a while and we have to fight to the point of exhaustion to crawl out from that place. I hope you and others keep this in mind when delving into the music. It’s not always pleasant to see some of the music from our journey into the dark. It’s not always easy to see/hear the battles. But maybe seeing/hearing will help a family member, a friend, a pastor, or even a medical professional view our lives with more understanding.

[@Gigikelli]

Amen Pastor amen. We are all praying for your beautiful soul Ren. Surround.him by your love

[@lowwatthalo1654]

He got to a point in his illness where he was open to 'spiritual' healing, in whatever form it would bring relief. He tells us his own tale without being preachy, just poetically factual & you can take whatever you want from it, which makes the messages within all the more powerful. As with most of us in the western world, the Biblical imagery is always a rich vein that the vast majority can easily understand to reference. I think here it provided labels for his inner 'demons', his struggle & his reaching the point where he appears to come to terms with and integrate his darker side into a whole, rather than fight an unwinnable war. You reach an age where everything he presents here has almost nothing new, is full of clichés/tropes/references... and yet... he has turned this into something so compelling, so relatable (what it must be like to people who suffered some or all of his trials) & something so engrossing. This performance is so much greater than the sum of its parts. Had he accompanied a guitarist, it would yet be a masterpiece, but he played & acted in character throughout. Check out 'Crutch' which he wrote years ago while he was at a very low ebb during his illness, then 'Money Game' which is a scathing social commentary which holds up a mirror to us all.

[@jessicamcdonald9788]

Thank you for praying. I stand with you and pray with for Ren and others struggling like him. In Jesus name. Amen.

[@JorgeM523]

Thank you! Thank you for your view. You made a difference in all the reactions I have watched on "Hi Ren"

[@sylentstorm8422]

Beautiful reaction. I love this.

[@paolab2077]

I'm 29 and currently learning to walk with God and Jesus - Ren's song had a big part to play in me initiating this journey, whether he himself believes or not. I really loved your reaction - thank you and thank you for the wonderful prayer at the end

[@pastormattt]

Awesome to hear. Glad to be able to walk beside you on this journey with Jesus.

[@MindsWide]

Love your analysis of this. Thanks for sharing Pastor.

[@Red5x5x5]

Ren's message is essentially there is no battle, except to realise that there is no battle. You are one being, and to have peace, you need to accept that you have negative and positive aspects, and stop externalising aspects of yourself which you dislike. The battle is to accept yourself, complete, and find a way to keep on moving forward through life with whatever abilities and disabilities those aspects give you. "We must not forget, that we are human beings."

[@darthmocker7379]

good job, i've watched a lot of Hi Ren reactions and so far you are the only one that i've seen question at that point if it's his own story life.

[@norahdenovan8658]

REN is a talented genius. You need to go down the rabbit hole of this utterly gifted beautiful man. He has been through hell himself& it’s ongoing. He is helping people everyday. Love you REN ❤

[@Almcosta25]

Amen. I thank you Pastor Matt for sharing with us your feelings about this song, about Ren, and also for the Love of God you reflected im the prayer. Grace and Peace, from Porto, Portugal

[@kimdavis5594]

Of all the reactions, you're the only one that prayed for him and I appreciate that. I will pray for you. Thank you

[@joelspaulding5964]

We ALL go through this to one extent or another. The archetypes if angels and demons, the modern Gollum and Smeagol- they hit all of us, for a reason. Excellent reaction

[@TanyaQueen182]

Ren seems to be an amazing young man. His music is so real. Love him.

[@maccart67]

Thank you Pastor Matt. Ren’s creativity has been helpful to so many beautiful and struggling people. 🌻🇦🇺

[@swtblake]

You've just made me have a revelation in my faith because of the thought provocation you gave me. And I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for that.

[@winterlady]

Your review is insightfully and I’ve seen many. Can’t wait to see more reactions to Ren. I recommend the Moneygame series, Sick Boi and What you Want (for fun)

[@michaeldoherty7434]

It’s a beautiful and powerful performance. Yes he has been through tough times but his ability to tell the story is remarkable

[@farkas419]

Pastor Matt, hello from Tacoma, WA! Great reaction, if I didn't already have a church home, I'd probably consider visiting yours. More pastors need to be like you.

[@lesleyd2448]

Love Ren! 💜 This young man has helped me heal. 🙏

[@dannydevlin1893]

It was really nice that you prayed for Ren live on your video 💫💫

[@hollyspeckle]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this, Matt, I really enjoyed hearing them. And I loved joining you in a prayer for Ren at the end! Other reactors ask you to subscribe at the end of videos, but I think sending a blessing is a nicer idea 🙏🏻

[@assassin8or]

Beautiful reaction Pastor, thank you

[@myzelleutube]

I found your channel by this reaction. It’s message is so powerful and moving. It makes me cry every time I hear it. I relate to your reaction as I grew up 2/3 baptist and 1/3 catholic. I lost my way for many years. I’m finally coming back to something that fundamentally works for me. Thank you for your input, and please never think you are talking too much. Reactions should be primarily your take on the material. So many reactions are futile, and add zero substance to the topic. God bless and have a great day! ❤🙏 👼 🤲 😇 ❤

[@MrStoner312]

I liked this view of the reaction dude you got my sub haven’t heard one like this yet I like this song so I been goin through the reactions to find good perspectives of songs so you earned my sub good job dude keep it up

[@2FuZy2]

Great reaction! Hoping to see more.

[@CherylMiller-rd2tx]

Thank you very much for your review. And thank you for your prayer for Ren. God Bless you.

[@alanwarren5033]

PERFECT closing, brother

[@Lynds77]

@RenMakesMusic he needs to hear this ❤❤ Bless you Matt.

[@jrbush1]

This is Ren Gill from Wales.While Ren doesn’t claim to be a Christian, you can hear his knowledge through many of his songs. Thanks for praying for him. I believe he is a true seeker. And as many have said, Ren is a genuinely good human being. We should all learn from him.

[@wereintheendgamenow5137]

One of my favorite reactions to this I’ve seen and I’ve watched genuinely 100 by now. I’d love to see u do Insomnia by Ren. I genuinely connect with it and would love to hear ur breakdown

[@maggiemay6625]

Thankyou pastor for that prayer I welled up it was beautiful I need prayer today so I took your service on board Amen🇬🇧

[@stonedwookiee278]

I"m an avowed atheist sitting here half drunk praying along that Ren can finally find peace in his struggles with psychosis, and that I can find peace through Jesus for my own psychoses. My eyes haven't been dry this whole video. Please pray for a sinner like me and Ren to finally find salvation in Christ, the Eucharist for our own inner demons. We're a coin with two different sides.

[@pastormattt]

Let's pray right now. Father I ask that @stonedwookie278 find your peace now, no more waiting. Over power them with your love and peace, surround them with people that exhibit your love to them in their lives. Provide any medical needs that they may need in their battle with psychosis. Amen. If you ever need to chat more, feel free to join my discord, I am more active on there than youtube comments.

[@cindyjenkins2537]

We all have sinned brother and fall short of the glory of God. Whatever season are in, come. Come as you are. Please just come and he will meet us where we are. Praying for you my friend. Praise the Lord.

[@ravenscroftholly1296]

You may say your an athiest but if you hear the problem and know your actually not. No judgements just pray

[@staceyshaffer180]

“Lost All Faith”, “Sick Boi” and “Hold On” are amazing and will give you more insight into REN. Great reaction, new subscriber 🙏🏻

[@TinaGregory-qv3dt]

Master piece

[@elsvaughn7959]

I do wish that i could believe in some kind of higher power. I love that Ren doesn't prescribe to any religion, but uses motifs that will be recognized by most of the western world. I also love that he's found a reason for perseverance and good, which is nothing more than there is no dichotomy..