More Than a Song

Some songs have a more powerful personal impact than others because they stir up memories of special occasions and important events in our lives. It may be a song from our wedding, a melody that takes us back to the carefree days of our youth, or lyrics that helped us through a tough season of life. These songs tend to stick with us through the years and evoke pleasant emotions whenever we hear them. There is a special significance to them which may not matter as much to others, but certainly carries great power for us.

There is a woman in history who had an interaction with Jesus which is recorded in the book of John. We don't know much about her except for this brief engagement. She met Jesus at a well in Samaria while looking for water and ended up finding the Savior she had been searching for all her life. Despite all her choices and the social and spiritual isolation that resulted from it, she found forgiveness, comfort, and value in the eyes of the Messiah.

She may not have had the songs of today to sing, but I would imagine that she could identify with the powerful lyrics of the song below as a result of her encounter. This redeemed woman could speak with authority on the rescuing power of Christ and how her world would change. If we could listen to this song with that story in mind it might make it as powerful to us as well.

Simple Prayer

This song reflects a simple prayer for me, my family, and the church I am blessed to be part of.

Washed By the Water

There is something powerful about water and the spiritual imagery of renewal and washing things clean. It has always resonated with my soul and stirs up waves of emotion that I believe were planted there by God to call me to something deeper. When it is tied together with music it vibrates a spiritual part of us that responds in a more intimate way than other mediums. It brings a desire to seek out the blessings of water and the renewal of life that God brings even through difficult times.

Even when the rain falls

Even when the flood starts rising

Even when the storm comes

I am washed by the water

Even when Earth crumbles under my feet

Even when ones I love turn around and crucify me

I won't never ever let you down

I won't fall

I won't fall

I won't fall as long as you're around me

Grace & Hope

One of my favorite artists is Josh Garrels, a uniquely gifted musician I stumbled on many years ago. He has a very smooth sound and I have only met a few people who enjoy him as much as I do. He has one song in particular, "Farther Along" that I have listened to several times in the last 24 hours.

I've always enjoyed the song, but was spurred to listen to it more intently recently. It is a moving song of grace and hope and the timing has been right for it to resonate deeply with me. It reminds me that I don't have everything figured out right now and yet I can have confidence in the future that God brings for me.

Every Hour

I am a fan of almost all types of music. I have widespread (and somewhat eclectic) tastes, but I always appreciate talent and the weaving of melodies and harmonies. I like finding new voices and unique approaches to old songs. 

I stumbled across a young man named Sam Robson several months ago who uses his abilities to highlight the beauty of older hymns. There is one in particular that continues to resonate with me-partly because of the message of the song and partly because of his beautiful performance. I listen to it frequently to remind myself of what I truly need.

Making Me New

I continue to see great evidence of God's gift of restoration. I see it in brand new marriages from broken relationships, in people walking confidently in God's grace despite a sordid past, and in the power of a radically transformed character. It's all reflective of the way God makes brand-new, beautiful things out of the rejected, discarded refuse of our life choices. Who couldn't fall in love with a heavenly Father who desires to do that for those He loves?

Not Alone

Certain songs seem to resonate with me more at certain times. It's often a reflection of my current circumstances, but it's also from meditating on powerful lyrics that seem to speak to my soul. My favorite worship song right now is one called, "Open Up Our Eyes" by the team from Elevation Church. It's a simply powerful reminder of God's constant devotion to His children. It sings of the comfort gained from knowing that He is actually fighting for us and doesn't abandon us. Sometimes that's the message we need to hear the most.

Overcome

Alright-I'll admit I still can't find a blogging rhythm & that posting song lyrics is a cheat, but this song has been rolling through my head and I want to share it.  I'll put a video at the bottom as well.  Truly anointed lyrics and good for all to reflect on.

Seated above, enthroned in the Father's love

Destined to die, poured out for all mankind

God's only son perfect and spotless one

He never sinned, but suffered as if he did

All authority, every victory is Yours

All authority, every victory is Yours

Savior, worthy of honor and glory,
worthy of all our praise, You overcame

Jesus, awesome in power forever,
awesome and great is Your name,You overcame

Power in hand speaking the Father's plan

You're sending us out, light in this broken land

We will overcome by the blood of the Lamb

and the word of our testimony, everyone overcome