Songs of Pain and Trouble

As a pastor and worship leader, I have been noticing a glaring hole in the choices of music that I have to use in the church. Whether songs from centuries ago or more modern selections, songs that deal with the reality of pain and trouble in this life are noticably missing. At times there are a few phrases that reference a "Job" like experience, but then the lyrics quickly run to the happier side of life. But that is not how life works, does it? Pain, tragedy, suffering of all sorts rarely appears for a moment and then disappears behind shimering skies. Those I know who are dealing with the painful realities of life have been trudging through for months and years with no answers in sight. Are their songs that connect with their experiences in life?

Now there are! With some expections, JJ Heller is one of those rare artists who deal with life as it is. The following video is of her song "Your Hands." It is worth a listen.

Tim Keller on the Missional Church

Christmas is Changing the World

What's the best Christmas present that you have ever given? One that I remember was the Christmas when I gave my wife a bag of cat food. Really...it was good because that meant that I was giving in on getting a kitty. She was thrilled!

But cats aside, how many of the Christmas presents that you have given changed another person's life? I'm not sure any of mine have, that is until this year. This year my wife and I gave money to Living Water International in honor of several family members. Living Water Internataional works to provide clean water access to people in over 25 countries around the world. I've never been with out access to clean water, so it is hard for me to imagine living in these kinds of situations. But the reality is that over 1 billion people on this planet do not have access to clean, safe water. So a gift to Living Water International actually changes people's lives. So even though it is Christmas Eve, it's not too late to give a gift that will really make a difference. Check out their ministry at www.water.cc and consider donating any amount. Who knows, it just might change your life as well!