Song of the Week | Matt Redman 'You Never Let Go'

I don't think there's that much to say about this song. It sums a lot up for many different people and if you've never heard it, it might just show you what the love of Christ is all about. This is You Never Let Go by Matt Redman.

Live on TV

Watching the men's final of the Australian Open this morning, Murray currently one set down (come on Andy!) I wonder, even from the comfort of their sofas, cup of tea in hand and doughnuts ready to eat whilst watching, if there would be as many people tuning in to watching Jesus on TV as there are for this final of a tennis competition?

Forget the TV, would there be as many ticket sales as there has been for the sell out crowd around the colosseum-esqe tennis court? Would people be holding up banners with Jesus Christ's face on? Would they cheer for him, rally behind him and support him throughout?

I think back to the FA Cup match I was watching yesterday. Again, a sell out crowd for a sports team, with every single one of them knowing which side they support, giving their all to their team, not just with shouting and applauding, but with wearing their team colours. Manchester United shirts with Scholes, Giggs and Rooney on the back. How many people would turn up with Jesus's name or face on a shirt made up of his colours, any colours, all the colours as Jesus is part of the entire world. Would you wear a shirt? Would you stand up and say "Yes, I support Jesus, I believe in him" like you would do of a tennis player, football, baseball or basketball team?

Why is it so much easier to show your support publicly for sports teams, political sides and even on reality shows than it is to stand up and announce to the world that you are part of team Jesus. He is your manager, your coach. Do you see yourself as a true fan, or even more so, a star player on his team?

New interviews confirmed

Couple of new and exciting interviews confirmed for the near future...

LZ7

and


Sidewalk Prophets

Watch this space

Juan DeVevo Interview

Hello Juan from Casting Crowns.  How are you doing? Where are you currently?


Melodee and I are doing great. We are currently on a 2 month off time from the road where we decided, "Hey. let's redo most of the house. It'll be great since we don't like a clean house anyway". 


How’s 2011 going thus far?


January is almost over, so that naturally means I've already given up hope on my resolutions to not overeat and not yell at the dogs. 


If people don’t know Casting Crowns, how would you describe yourself?


Just a worship band who writes songs about people in whose live we get to take part and things God is still teaching us. 


How did the band first come together?


I was leading worship at FBC Daytona when Mark came on to be the youth pastor there, and shortly after me and Melodee got married, then Hector and Chris joined. 2 years later we moved to Atlanta where we picked up Megan, and it's been a mess ever since.

Where did the name of the band come from?


There's a verse in Revelation 4:11 where the elders are gathered around the throne of Jesus, laying their crowns at his feet. Since we are a worship band, we thought that was the ultimate picture of what life will be like in heaven.


When did you give your life to God and what made your life turn in God’s direction?


I'm pretty lucky in the fact that my folks were both believers and good ones at that. I was saved when I was 6.  No drugs, no alcohol, just a sinner. I didn't know everything, but I knew what I needed. I am a sinner, Jesus died to pay for it, I trust Him to get me to heaven.


You've been around for well over a decade and have released over 10 albums. Which would you say was the most successful album? And how would you define success?


They all have moments from them. Casting Crowns was the first, and I always hear the old way we did those songs in the back of my head. Lifesong has one of the most impactful songs we've recorded in Praise You in the Storm and the tour saw more poeple come to Christ than I've ever seen, Altar and the Door was the most fun I've had on a tour and very important songs like Slow Fade and East to West. Until the Whole World Hears has been a great worship CD for me and is kind of a statement to the effect of "You know how we told you to reach out to other people and not judge, and to watch your step as you walk through life? Well here's why...Jesus"
 

What’s your favourite track over the numerous albums? Which do you most enjoy playing live?


I never get tired of While You were Sleeping, it is just so sweet and its that classic (if there is such a thing yet) Casting Crowns blend of sweet music and convicting lyrics. Live is a toss up between What this World Needs and Holy One, and I don't think I need to explain myself there 


Would you say you prefer worship leading, or performing as a band?


I think our aim is worship every time we get on stage. We want people to connect with Jesus and if that doesn't happen, then whatever they experienced will leave the moment they hit the exit.


What message do you want to give through your music?


The Way the Truth and the Life is Jesus Christ. We are broken and church will not save you. Jesus will.


Back to your roots, how did you first come to music?


My dad showed me my first few chords on guitar, and it became my therapy because I have a pretty bad temper, and the music soothed my savage beast.


Where do you find influences?


Musically, I've gone through every phase and listened to everything at one time or another. Spiritually, it was definitely my Dad.


How does the band write music, who does what, how does the process work?


Mark does a lot of the writing. Lately we've actually had some time to get our ideas together and work on them. in the past, we just gave our ideas to Mark, he went away for a couple of days, and we'd pray like monks. But most of the inspiration comes from us being in the church and living with people who are attacked, or are going through tough times, or loss, and God speaks to us through that.


Who would you love to perform with, past or present?


If I pick someone better than me, I would just want to watch them, however I always daydream about jamming with Third Day at the Dove Awards at some point.


What artists have you most loved sharing a stage with?


Nicole Nordeman was great to listen to her live, Leeland was great at leading worship, Steven Curtis Chapman is a legend. We have gotten to follow David Crowder Band for a few summers, and its amazing and disappointing, because when they're done, we still have to play.

What are you currently listening to on your mp3 player?


I told you I listen to everything, so...Beckah Shae (Pop) Night Owls (Hip-Hop) and Josh Garrels (Singer/Songwriter).


Who do you think is going to sum up the sound of 2010?

I have no idea. Mainstream music seems to be a lot of processed and dance music which I think is causing a groundswell in the acoustic/folk genre. CCM is being stretched again since artists are able to get their music out with how popular Digital music and social media have gotten.


God's Earth is a huge place, as you've toured internationally, taking you to all corners of the globe, where have you most enjoyed visiting, what cultures have you embraced?


I think I should have been born British, so I loved England. Hawaii was the prettiest place I've been. North Korea was definitely most memorable and we were treated so well, and I love the people of Africa.


Best live performance you’ve played?


Its always the next to the last date on tour. The last night you're thinking about going home, so your mind's not always into playing. Anytime before that is trying to iron out mistakes. I remember once I made it through with no goofs, it was the last night, in Nashville on the Altar and the Door Tour.


What do you miss the most when you’re on the road touring?


I hate missing my Middle School guys small group and Student Praise band.  It feels like I'm an outsider if I miss too much.


How has the Christian music scene changed over the decade or so that you've been part of it?


I think artistically, we're starting to trust God more, and branch out and most everything now is just good music.  We're not trying to be the Christian version of any band, and we're just making great music.


How does it feel to be in a position to inspire so many people, including young people to turn their lives to Christ? Thank you for turning my life towards him!


Humbling, keeps us accountable, and keeps us at our church, because we never want to lose touch with that.


If Casting Crowns was a Jelly Bean, what colour and flavour would you be and why?


Buttered Popcorn flavoured: at first glance you think it's going to be sweet, then you catch a bit of a salty flavour. Also a fine line defines the smell of buttered popcorn from sweaty feet.


Some quick fire questions:


Tea or coffee?


Iced Sweet Tea.


Summer or winter?


Depends on where. Summer in Michigan, Winter in Orlando.


Superman or Batman?


Batman. Superman was kinda dense, always got trapped by Luthor.


Mac or PC?


I don't like restarting my computer every 5 minutes, so Mac.


Bread or Wine?


In communion? The bread is great, but then your mouth is dry. Any wonder Jesus told us to do both?


Favourite passage from the Bible?


Colossians 2:13-14. Its the Gospel in a poetic nutshell.


What’s coming up in 2011 and next on the agenda for Casting Crowns?


Finishing a CD, playing in Brazil, doing a Fall tour, balance time on the road and with family and with students, Take my kids to every Kids Museum in the US (they come with us), Love more, Give more, Go more.


And finally, how would you describe the love of God for all those people who are unsure of their direction and of course those already on their journey with Christ?


If you are on your journey with Jesus, then your course is set. Your purpose is already realized. It is your journey with Christ. Every other detail is a circumstance for you to realize the character of God and an anvil to shape you into His Son.


Thanks Juan, have a blessed day!

Listen to The Fear

There's been a new five week course compiled by the Bishop of Sheffield, Dr Steven Croft entitled Exploring God's Mercy. The course suggests that Christians use popular songs and clips from films at the start of each session to set the tone for the theme to be discussed that week. As we approach Lent the course is supposed to allow us to explore the Bible in a new way, and what better way then to use modern technology and ways of life such as YouTube, twitter, iPods, iPads, podcasts to bring together scriptures and inspire individual prayer and group discussion.


“The depth, strength and constancy of God’s love is of course a lifetime’s journey and Exploring God’s Mercy is designed to take groups or individuals further on that journey," he said. 


The course focuses on five images of salvation: the weekly sessions are entitled Lost and Found: Hungry and Satisfied; In Prison and Set Free; Sick and Made Well; Storm Tossed and Comforted; Living the Fruitful Life.

As one of the recommended songs to start sessions off with was the Lily Allen song The Fear, here you go...

Song of the Week | Tim Hughes 'Here I Am To Worship'

We don't spend that much time on this earth, as we found out yesterday when a beloved member of our congregation slipped away. A lovely member of the church, active and passionate about her faith, welcoming to newbies like me and my Mrs when we first arrived. For that I thank her so much. There are many things we plan to achieve, dream of reaching, strive to become whilst we live our lives on this planet, but perhaps the one thing we should put in pole position is praising our Lord. Indeed, we are all here to worship and knowing that trust in God, putting our faith in him, we all know where we are going after this life if we live how he wants us to. Worship and praise him, remember those who have been lost, but be assured of where they are now.

Man of Science, Man of Faith

No, not the season two premiere of Lost. Apparently there are two men. Ones of Science, ones of Faith. For a long time scientists have been trying to explain the beginning of the universe, the creation of our world. You can take away the test tubes, elements tables and Bunsen burners, it's all explained somewhere much more accessible.

Genesis, it reads 'in the beginning God'. What more do you need. At the start of all things, there was God. Regardless of whatever else, science has tried boiled it down to something like a -43rd of a second moment where something happened, but whatever else, however else you try to explain it, in the beginning God. The Lord was there, and life building towards what we know life to be now, began. That moment when the world was created, whatever else was there, God was there. That is what being a man of faith is about.

You can dissect as many frogs as you wish and science is fantastic to discover developments to cues for disease. There is only so much being a man of science will explain. become a man of faith, put that faith in the Lord and know that God is creator of man, heavens and earth. If you take one thing from this weekend, whatever you're doing, remember, in the beginning God.

Sonicflood Interview

Hello Rick from Sonicflood. How are you doing? Where are you currently and how was 2010 for you? 

Well it's been a wild as my wife ran for Congress in Tennessee's 5th district and then we moved to Virginia. Phil our guitar player went back to Australia and our good friend, Ron stepped in. Then Mckendree got married and moved to Pennselvania... so pretty crazy!

If people don’t know what you and your music are about, how would you describe yourself? 

We are people who live for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and we play music that communicates our love and devotion to Him. The sounds that we use musically vary from 'rock' to 'pop' to 'ballad'... we grew up on rock and roll and its the type of music that we like to play but we let the song dictate the sounds that we use.

Your band name is taken from a line in the book of Revelation, what made you decide on that name and were there any other 'options' you had on the table? 

Revelation 19:6 says Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.

In this passage the worship of the King of kings will sound like the roar of rushing waters, or like a flood and the word sonic is another word for sound so we say that 'sonicflood' is the sound of the roaring worship of heaven because Christ has defeated all sin and sickness.

When did you give your life to God and what made your life turn in God’s direction? 

I grew up going to church up to 3 times a week sometimes more depending on the time of year but my relationship and understanding of God's character was confused and lacking. I grew up in a very legalistic church where I never fully understood the love of God. I believe the Father of Lies or satan wants us to have a confused idea of God's nature so that our relationship with God becomes twisted or shallow. I remember watching several of my friends that I grew up with in church, in fact leave the church and any semblance of a faith in Christ soon after they graduated High School. I was blessed to have a nurturing family that challenged me to find my own relationship with God by searching the Word and letting it permeate my heart. At age 11 I became very ill and I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. I truly believe having to deal with that illness for 27 years made me even stronger because I found that we cant rely on anything but God to make us whole and have real life. And a great testimony to His Might and Power is that the Lord healed me from that disease which is completely impossible by man's strength - But with Christ all things are possible!

Inspirational! You've released 10 albums since your beginning over a decade ago. Which would you say was the most successful album? And how would you define success? 

I believe all our albums have been successful because people have been affected by the songs from all our releases.... is that cheating? I define success by achieving a goal and our goal has always been to change the world by the power of obedience to God and persistance in the face of adversity. We have been faithful to do what we beleive the Lord has called us to do and because of that fact the Lord has used our offering to His glory and as His servants - we are grateful and humbled. All glory to our Saviour and Lord!

What’s your favorite track over the numerous albums?  

My favs change over time but the song I'm currently digging is 'Psalm 91'


Which do you most enjoy playing live?  

I most enjoy the spontanious times in the set which are mingled with scripture and Hymns... following the leading of the Lord is a blast!

What message do you want to give through your music?  

That the most important thing in life will ALWAYS be your relationship with the Creator of the Universe and that you have accepted Christ as the Son of the Living God... Jesus Christ is the Way the Truth and the Life, there is no other way but through the Son!

Back to your roots, how did you first come to music?  

Singing in church is what I remember, then leading worship in church. The next thing I remember was dragging my dad's bass guitar down from the attic and then having him teach me a few things. Sitting in my room and playing music was my refuge during my younger years and music came easy to me so i liked it. I got into some garage bands and into gigging in bars in those years while at the same time leading worship on Sunday then I got into a Contemporary Christian band called Big Tent Revival and then moved into Sonicflood.

Where do you find influences?  

I have been influenced by popular music and by the Hynms I used to sing. My dad had some albums from the 60's and 70's that I listened to as well. I did go through phases of what I listen to but im a sucker for a hooky melody line and a catchy chord progression and it doesnt matter if its Jazz, Rock, Pop or Gospel.


Who would you love to perform with, past or present?  

Hmmmm, The Beatles, Chicago (in the 70's), U2, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Hendrix, Abba, the Bee Gee's, the Eagles, George Benson, Chaka Khan, King David and the first Levite Priests in the temple.

What artists have you most loved sharing a stage with? 

Most recently Tammy Trent, Matt Redman, Delirious, Mercy Me and Hillsong.

Who do you think is going to sum up the sound of 2011?  

The use and abuse of auto-tune!

God's Earth is a huge place, as you've toured internationally, taking you to all corners of the globe, where have you most enjoyed visiting, what cultures have you embraced?  

Ooooh, that is a difficult question because everywhere we have been has led us to meet so many amazing people and experience so many wonderful cultures but I do love Guam.

Best venue you’ve played? 

The best venue I've played is in an orphanage in India surrounded by children!

What do you miss the most when you’re on the road touring? 

Of course I miss being with my family the most, there was a time when we were out for about 2 and a half weeks and when I got home my little girl had grown and changed so much that I just stood in the front yard and held her and cried... I dont want to miss my children's childhood!

How has the Christian music scene changed over the decade you've been part of it? 

WOW, what hasnt changed! The whole industry has been turned upside down because of all the technological advancements, namely the personal computer and the internet. Big record companies arent getting the record sales they used to in the 90's so there are tons of cut-backs and without the capitol to invest in new artists, many people are deciding to go indie (independant). Also with the advent of the internet, cd sales have almost bottomed out... people are downloading their music now sometimes on their phones! So it's wild and I cant wait to see what happens next. If you want to survive this industry you must learn to think outside the box - way outside the box!

Let's go outside the box then...if Sonicflood was a Jelly Bean, what color and flavor would you be and why?  

The color would be blue-green, the color of the ocean and it would taste like the new rain...

Some quick fire questions: 

Tea or coffee? 

COFFEE!!!!!

Summer or winter? 

SUMMER!!!!

Superman or Batman? 

BATMAN!!!!

Mac or PC? 

MAC!!!!

Bread or Wine? 

Neither, I'm allergic to wheat and yeast. I prefer meat and veggies.

Favorite passage from the Bible? 

Psalm 103 ...' He heals all my diseases!'

What’s coming up in 2011 and next on the agenda for Sonicflood?

Leading worship around the world, writing and recording new songs...

And finally, how would you describe the love of God for all those people who perhaps get embarrassed about being a Christian, those who are unsure of their direction and of course those already on their journey with Christ?

I would describe God's love this way. When I was a new father. I was holding my first born there in the hospital and suddenly realized that every fibre in my being was in love with this little baby girl and then out of nowhere, I heard God's voice whisper to me that He loves me that much but His heart and love for me is infinite! WOW! the Lord's love for us is endless as He showed the world when He let His Son be sacrificed for us all! This is a love that we must share - not hide!


Thanks Rick! Have a blessed day! 

Bandstand - Sidewalk Prophets

Introducing Sidewalk Prophets. Not a new band by any means, they've been around and paid their dues for a long while. Hailing from Indiana, they put themselves on the music world's map indefinitely with 2009's release entitled These Simple Truths. The album contains the single The Words I Would Say which has this year been featured on Wow Hits 2011.

Even though they've been around since 2003, they won the 2010 Dove Award for New Artist of the Year. They have shared stages with Newsboys, MercyMe, Third Day and Jeremy Camp and their following is ever growing.

“We love performing,” Dave Frey says simply and you get the impression that is the simple truth. “But we also love the people we perform for,” he adds, injecting a layer of complexity to the equation. Integrating worship with real life - that is one of the simple truths Sidewalk Prophets has learned to live by.


Follow the band on twitter @swprophets

Member of the Bored?

It's Wednesday. The middle of another week. Perhaps you're at work, on the bus, travelling somewhere somehow, or maybe at home, a day off, not sure what to do, that pile of washing doesn't look that appealing and there's nothing on the television. Life seems a drag, it feels like you're living for that weekend, a weekend that goes by all too quick. Who decided that working 5 days out of 7 was a good idea? You're in a routine that you don't want to be in, a job you don't like, don't have any drive to get things done. Sound familiar? Is this you? Maybe you're becoming a member of the bored?

You're not the only one out there you know, feeling the same. Millions upon millions of people a day just go into autopilot mode and crack on with their everyday lives. There is a slight difference between you and those other folk on the street though. You believe in God. Maybe you feel like he's not watching over you and the only relationship you have with him is you believing he's there. Give more to him than that. Give him your entire life. Put your life in his hand, have faith that he will see you through, position you in a place where you can make a difference. I guarantee, if you start trusting in him, and letting him guide you, you will no longer be bored, your life will have purpose. You will become inspired and be able to tell those around you to trust in him as well. He will give you that purpose, he won't let you be bored.

Meredith Andrews Interview

Hello Meredith Andrews. How are you doing? Where are you currently?

Great! I'm sitting in my living room watching the snow fall outside. It's a cold day in Chicago!

How’s 2011 going thus far?

So far, so good! I was in Haiti during the second week of January spending time with about 50 orphans. Being with the people of Haiti and seeing the hope they have in Jesus regardless of their circumstances was absolutely the best way to kick off the new year.

If people don’t know what you and your music are about, how would you describe yourself?

I'm a worship leader at Harvest Bible Chapel outside Chicago. My goal in writing music is to express the honesty of my heart to the Lord, attempt to capture at least a glimpse of His majesty and goodness and love in each song, and relate to the listener in a way that will ultimately draw them closer to Jesus.

When did you give your life to God and what made your life turn in God’s direction?

I was raised in a Christian home and gave my life to the Lord when I was six years old. Even as a kid, there was an awareness that I was made for something bigger than myself, and I experienced the presence of God at a young age. God began to reveal Himself to me through His Word and other means, and I simply responded to His beckoning.

You've had a number of releases. Which would you say was your most successful and how would you define success?

I'm going to take a guess and say that The Invitation was the most 'successful', simply because it sold more than my other projects. (I honestly don't keep track of the numbers. I choose not to.) I believe that success is less about record sales and more about being faithful to God's calling. If I've sought to honor the Lord through my music and ministry and loved people sincerely, I have done what God as asked of me.

What’s your favourite track from your albums? Which do you most enjoy playing live?

The River and Show Me What It Means are probably my favorite tracks from The Invitation. Come Home and What It Means To Love are very personal to me. Live Through Me is a bit of a departure from what I normally write. All Will Fade Away talks about the temporary nature of this world and the joy that will come when we finally see Jesus. These are all from As Long As It Takes. I enjoy playing each of these songs live as well as You're Not Alone because I know how much it resonates with people.

What message do you want to give through your music?

The Gospel. I know that sounds simple but it's everything. I want to communicate the relentless, unfailing love that God has for each individual in a way that will inspire the listener to run after Him in return. When that happens, we get a glimpse of God's heart for the world , and that becomes our heart as well. I hope to write songs that challenge the Church to rise up and be the Church, to love the world like Jesus does and put that love into action.

Do you prefer worship leading or performing as a Christian artist?

I honestly love both. I will say that there's nothing like leading the people of God into the presence of God, however. And when it comes to singing songs I've written, I see it not as a performance but as a time of ministry where I can share the stories behind the songs and hopefully encourage the hearts of the audience.

Your last album As Long As It Takes was released at the start of 2010. What is your favourite track from the album?

That's a hard one. All the songs from As Long As It Takes were so personal and vulnerable for me, so they each have a special place in my heart. Perhaps Come Home is just slightly above the rest. It's a song I wrote for my brother, Derek.

Back to your roots, how did you first come to music?

My mom and I used to sing together in our church and other area churches. I sang my first solo when I was six and basically never stopped singing. :) When I was twelve I began singing back ground vocals and playing tambourine for our youth band and that eventually morphed into playing keys and leading worship.

Where do you find influences?

Rita Springer. Nichole Nordeman. Darlene Zschech. Mother Teresa. My parents.

Who would you love to perform with, past or present?

Past: Keith Green. Present: U2. :)

What artists have you most loved sharing a stage with?

Matt Maher. Michael W. Smith. Phil Wickham. Natalie Grant. Chris Sligh.

What are you currently listening to on your mp3 player?

The new Taylor Swift record.

Who do you think is going to sum up the sound of 2011?

I'm going to go with producers Max Martin and Dr. Luke (i.e. Katy Perry).

God's Earth is a huge place, where have you most enjoyed visiting, what cultures have you embraced?

Haiti, Guatemala and India would be my top three favorite places I've been outside of the US, not necessarily because of the country itself but more because of the people and culture. I miss my home state of North Carolina. I'm intrigued by New Orleans. I wish I could live in Southern California or Hawaii.

What's the best live performance you’ve played?

I'm not sure what the best would be, but I have lots of memorable ones. A show in particular that stands out to me is one we did in upstate New York back in October. Sold out venue. Just me and my husband Jacob on keys. A solid hour and a half of ministry. It was an unforgettable night of worship.

What do you miss the most when you’re on the road touring?

In this season of life I am able to take my two favorites with me on the road: my husband Jacob and baby boy Maverick. If I miss anything it would probably be my bed. :)

If Meredith Andrews was a Jelly Bean, what colour and flavour would you be and why?

Let's go with Passion Fruit. A little bit of sweet, a little bit of tangy, and a whole lot of passion for life.

Some quick fire questions:

Tea or coffee? 

Tea

Summer or winter? 

Summer

Superman or Batman?

Superman

Mac or PC? 

Mac

Bread or Wine? 

Bread...if it's wheat or whole grain. :)

Favourite passage from the Bible? 

Acts 20:24 - "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me: the task of testifying to the Gospel of God's grace." I love John 15 as well.

You had a child not so long ago. Massive congratulations! How are you finding being a mother? Will you still continue worship leading, writing music and performing?

Thank you! It's been the most amazing journey of my life. The Lord is teaching me so much of His love for me through my boy, Maverick. It's not without its challenges (there have been days where I didn't brush my teeth until 4:30 in the afternoon) but it's such an indescribable love. And yes, I started leading worship again at my church just two weeks after he was born and have been traveling since Mav was one month old. He's my little roadie. :)

How does it feel being in a position where you can influence so many young people?

Do you feel the pressure or does God talk easily through you and your music?

I don't feel a pressure necessarily, but it's not something I take lightly at all. Being able to influence young people is one of the biggest privileges and responsibilities of what I do. I hope to encourage young people to run after the Lord knowing that nothing can fulfil their lives like He can.

What’s coming up in 2011 and next on the agenda for Meredith Andrews? Nappies aside :)

Haha, well there will be plenty of those for sure. :) I will continue to lead worship at Harvest every weekend I'm not on the road. I'll be leading worship for a couple women's conferences coming up including Girls of Grace and Extraordinary Women. I hope to do a tour with another worship artist and organization called Children's Hope Chest that will revolve around informing and mobilizing the Church to get involved in orphan care. I hope to return to Haiti before 2011 is out. There may even be a new record on the horizon; I'll definitely be writing new songs so we'll see what happens!

And finally, how would you describe the love of God for all those peoplewho are unsure of their direction and of course those already on their journey with Christ?

Since I've been a mom, the Lord has pretty much revolutionized the way I understand His love. I know how much I love Maverick no matter what he's doing at the moment. Whether he's screaming his head off or laughing or even leaking out of his 'nappie,' my love for him never changes. How much greater then is the love the Father has for us! His love is not based on our performance or position. He doesn't love us more on our good days and less on our bad days. His love for us is always relentless and sacrificial and unconditional. He loves us because we are His (1 John 3:1). He even went to the cross to prove it. And there is no greater love than that.

Thanks Merdith!

Song of the Week | Casting Crowns 'Your Love Is Extravagant'

I remember last year, the youth group at church fronted an evening service. It was about extravagant love. There was a part of the service that always sticks with me where, one of the leaders spoke about God's extravagant love for each and every one of us. He demonstrated it by pouring a can of coke into a glass. It filled the glass about 3/4s full. He then opened another can and continued pouring until the glass was full to the brim. This is how much we are loved by people around us, and this is how much you may think God loves you. But actually, he continued pouring so that the glass overflowed and there was a waterfall of coke, God loves you more than that, he has extravagant love for you. I was in charge of sound that service and suggested playing this song. It really does hammer home just how extravagant God's love is for you, me, and each and every person on this planet.

A Day By The Sea

Today, my good wife and I went to the seaside, Filey to be exact. I know, it's January and it's the north of England, perhaps not the best time to visit the coast, but we love it there so much. Not only does the sea air fill your lungs with goodness, refreshing you and giving you that well deserved break from the world of work, it's also where we got engaged.

There really is something about the sea. It's inspiring (take a look at the film I made there, by the sea a couple of years ago), it provokes thoughts that perhaps wouldn't appear in your head otherwise, it has a life of it's own, flowing in, rushing out, removing the footprints from the sand and replacing them with a smooth line of beach. Much like Jesus. Not only did he describe himself as the 'living water' he also took away our sins. Much like that tide we saw today at the coast.

I hope you can take a trip to the seaside soon. Forget about the cold wind sweeping inland, ignore the sand in your shoes, go ahead and treat yourself to some fish and chips and just stare out over the waters and be at peace, knowing the living water has washed your sins away.

Some New Year Interviews

Good evening all!

Just thought I should update you as I've been busy chasing some interviewees this week!

The first one is with Meredith Andrews

and the second is with Juan Devevo from Casting Crowns

I've also been trying to get hold of the outstanding interviews from last year as well! BeBe Vox, The Afters, Chris August and Sonicflood. Keep an eye out!

Song of the Week | MercyMe 'Beautiful'

There are times when we all feel down, sometimes that feeling is emphasised at the start of a New Year like we are now. A mere 10 days into what is overblown to be this new start, new chances, new opportunities and that feeling you have of yourself, that negative feeling is consuming you. Perhaps you feel ugly, and there are many ways of feeling ugly. Not just visually, but inside yourself as well as on the surface. Whatever you feel, the reality of it is that you are beautiful. We are all handmade by God, in his own image, and you are so much more than what people make you out to be. Put your faith in the Lord this year and realise that the cross took every bad thing away. This song by MercyMe explores this theme, this emotion, this feeling. You are loved - indeed treasured, special, and above all, his.

Resolutions

It's over a week now since we all celebrated the coming of a new year, another year on since the birth of our saviour and I'm fairly sure that a number of you have given up on your resolutions already.

That's not a criticism, merely an observation. It's difficult to give up chocolate when a week before you've been handed a mountain of selection boxes as gifts. The same goes for 'getting fit', first you've got to shift that extra few pounds that everyone seemingly puts on over the festive period. Other resolutions include quitting smoking - not an easy objective to complete at all, falling in love - surely that happens when you meet the right person to fall in love with, you don't just make this happen, and becoming more charitable, though everyone says charity starts at home. 

Perhaps, rather that these type of 'generic' resolutions, you should cast these aside and think about what God wants you to do? Maybe simply praying more would be good, however it shouldn't be a resolution because we should all pray more and it shouldn't take a New Year to kick us into action. Maybe invite a friend to church, or get involved in the church more yourself rather than just attending the services?

I think the main thing we should remember, is to not get so caught up in our daily routines and lifestyles, that you become oblivious to God. As it says in Romans,' Be up and alert to what God is doing'.

Latest Christian Music News

Christian artist Rebecca St James has had an amazing 2011 already. She got engaged on Christmas Day in Tennessee. Rebecca has said to friends, "We are truly amazed at finding our dreams and ideals met in the love we've found. We are exceedingly grateful for this precious gift from God." Her signature song "Wait For Me" has helped to inspire girls and women all over the world to be models of purity before marriage for over a decade.

Plenty of Christian artists in the nominations for the Grammys. Israel Houghton, Forever James and Switchfoot have all been nominated. Make sure to tune in on February 13th to see the outcome.

Congratulations to Natalie Grant on the safe arrival of her third daughter. Born in December Sadie Rose joins twin sisters Isabella and Grace. "Perfect, healthy and GORGEOUS!" tweeted Natalie as Sadie arrived a week early.

Winter Jam 2011 kicks off it's 45 date tour in the States this weekend. The gig boasts the likes of the Newsboys, Red and Kutless. The pre-show party brings Chris Sligh, Sidewalk Prophets and Chris August to the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte.

To celebrate the New Year, Phatfish have laid on an album deal combo for their new disc 'Anthems' and any record from their back catalogue. Choose from 'Heavenbound', 'Purple Through the Fishtank' and even grab a Lou Fellingham solo album such as 'Step Into The Light'. Offer available through their website.

Finally...Last month, Mark Hall lead singer from Casting Crowns spoke about how the band not only want to reach out to families of army troops, but the troops themselves. Hall said at a church in Atlanta that a serviceman came up to him when the band played over in the Middle East for the troops. The solider said: "I've heard your music before; my wife listens to your music; but the things that you said [in the concert] and the songs that you sang have really given me hope to get through this." Let's hope that the rest of the troops fighting for our countries can have the same hope and faith.

Song of the Week | LZ7 'This Little Light'

I first heard this track at Breakout 2010. LZ7 took the stage and got everyone jumping to their beat, with their unique way of praising the Lord. They also told of how they had been signed up to the same label as N-Dubz and Dizzee Rascal, which is definitely a good thing, bringing them to a wider audience, allowing them to spread the good news through their music.

It reached number 26 in the UK singles charts in October 2010 and hopefully made a lot of youth think about their faith. Make sure you shine your light this New Year. Enjoy.