August 3, 2008

All Things Praise
Words by Holly Dwan and Matt Stevens
Music by Holly Dwan

This is the title track from our recently released worship album, “All Things Praise”. Based on Psalm 148, Holly put together a narrative of the way God’s creation gives glory to Him. One thing I appreciate, in both the song and Psalm 148, is the inclusion of the earth, animals and humanity. Certainly, there is a difference in God’s design for a person and a tree, but humans are created to reflect God’s glory, just as any other part of His creation.

“Snowfall, winds blow, nations bow – they all praise your name”

Before The Throne Of God Above
Words by Charitie Bancroft, 1863
Music by Vikki Cook
Arrangement by Sojourn Church, Louisville KY.

We were going to introduce a new original song this week, but it was not quite ready. The band thankfully spoke up about this in our pre-service rehearsal. While the subject matter of the new song deals with repentance, something our church is going through right now, the band was right- it wasn’t ready. In the midst of worshiping through “Before The Throne of God Above” in the 9:30 service, I was struck by the beauty and depth of the poetic lyrics, and was reminded that the lyrics of the new song especially need some work. There really should be a standard on all accounts when introducing new songs, so they can stand next to a song like this one.

Sermon: John 20:24-29
Thomas gets a bad wrap- he didn’t believe in ghosts, and the church dubs him “Doubting Thomas”. Pastor Tyler Jones preached on the real issue here- that Thomas was separated from community during this time. In addition, we are like Thomas in that we demand from God before we believe. The response of Jesus is beautiful, as Thomas is invited to draw near to the God of heaven. What grace!

God Of My Life, To Thee I Call
Words by William Cowper, 1779
Music: Clint Wells, Brian T. Murphy and Benk Pocta

What a beautiful song this was after the sermon! As God drew the broken and shameful Thomas to himself, and calls us in the same state, we sing these lyrics:

“God of my life, to Thee I call;
Afflicted, at Thy feet I fall;
When the great water-floods prevail,
Leave not my trembling heart to fail.”

Heartsong
Words and Music by Colin and Holly Dwan and Matt Stevens

Another track from our album “All Things Praise”, and yesterday the opening lyrics were right on with the sermon, “Worthy Jesus, You are holy. Everlasting, clothed in glory.” Pastor Tyler confessed that when he first learned about the grace and love of Jesus, he lost sight of the holiness of Jesus- the great I AM. This pendulum swings through the life of a Christ follower, and sadly rests on the extremes in some individuals and churches. There is one God, and He is both holy and loving- we should not elevate or diminish either!

Wholly Yours
Words and Music by David Crowder Band

The luxury of doing a mix of hymns, originals, and contemporary worship songs is that we can pick and choose. Every church can, but there are logistics in doing a certain number of songs each week, and if you only sing contemporary songs, you’re limited. We do few contemporary worship songs, but his is a great song, and a concept that we are continually learning at Vintage21 Church - Jesus died, and he gets it all.

“So here I am, all of me
Finally, everything
I am wholly Yours”

Feel free to comment on the day’s set, or ask questions about songs!

This week’s recap of songs is posted in collaboration with other worship leaders on the “Sunday Setlists” blog carnival at fredmckinnon.com