Ohio Respite #3 – Day 1 – Musical Musings in March

March 24th, 2015 dsisler

 

I’ll be in Ohio the rest of the week getting Mom settled at home. There will be no time to write, so please enjoy older Musical Musings in March posts. Have a great first full week of Spring!

 

“The New 23rd” – Musical Musings in March

 

???????????????????????????????Today’s melody is from another great song writer. Ralph Carmichael. It’s true that Mr. Carmichael is credited with some secular tunes (including the soundtrack to The Blob in 1958), he has been faithful to use his talent to bring others to Jesus through his music.

 

It’s been years since I’ve thought of today’s melody. I’ve read and re-read the Psalm it is based upon many times, but this song has been stored away in the recesses of my melodious heart. Now, however, the memories of this song are flowing.

 

It was popular when I was a child and it could be heard in church services or television programs (perhaps you remember some of those) or conventions. It was beautiful sung with full orchestration or a cappella. It was meaningful whether sung by a great choir or a soloist in the local church. And if given the chance, I’m sure it would be the same today.

 

You see, the message is timeless. Psalm 23 has been used throughout generations to comfort the hurting. To give hope to those who need a boost. To give guidance to those who have lost their way.

 

Today I pray that you’ll find what you need in this version of the 23rd Psalm. It has been especially meaningful to me.

 

“The New 23rd”

 

Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything that I need.

He lets me rest in meadows green and leads me beside the quiet stream;

He keeps on giving life to me and helps me to do what honors Him the most.

Even when walking through the dark valley of death, valley of death,

I will never be afraid, for he is close beside me,

Guarding, guiding all the way;

He spreads a feast before me

In the presence of my enemies.

He welcomes me as His special guest.

With blessing overflowing, His goodness and unfailing kindness shall be with me all of my life

And afterward I will live with Him forever, forever in His home,

Forever in His home, forever in His home.[i]

 

Christine Wyrtzen’s version of this song can be heard by clicking here.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “The New 23rd”, Words and Music by Ralph Carmichael; based on Psalm 23, Lexicon Music, Inc., 1969.

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“Wash My Sins Away-Make Us Holy” – Musical Musings in March

March 23rd, 2015 dsisler

 

With Easter quickly approaching, we’ve been watching more and more television programs about Jesus and His life. While I can’t say that I agree with everything I hear in these programs, I do like that my television hours are focused more on Jesus and that His Name is being spoken for millions of people to hear.

 

MusicAgain, with Easter quickly approaching, my heart and mind turn more often than not to the events of Jesus’ final week on earth as a human. It was probably an emotional roller coaster week for all involved, including our Lord and Savior.

 

Celebrations. Reflections. Joy. Grief. Professed allegiance. Denial. Honor. Laughter. Tears. Betrayal. Pain. Amazement. Surprise. Anger. Fear. Singing. Rejoicing. I’m sure there were plenty more.

 

And again, with Easter quickly approaching, let’s not take for granted what Jesus went through so that we might know Him in a personal way. His blood and sacrifice made a way for us to be cleansed of our sin. And with the cleansing of our sins, we have the opportunity to become more like Jesus.

 

Friend, let’s not waste a single moment living the way we used to live. Because of the cross and Jesus’ resurrection, we are able to live holy lives. With just one drop of Jesus’ blood, we are able to reflect Jesus’ face and His glory. What an amazing God we have!

 

Today I share a medley of “Wash My Sins Away” and “Make Us Holy.” Each one leads us to the cross and the transforming power we find in Jesus. I pray that you will allow the blood of Jesus to wash away the grit and grime of your life and then, allow God’s Spirit to make the change so that others may see Jesus in us.

 

“Wash My Sins Away”

 

I have brought to You a contrite heart

I do not want my sin to separate me from You

So I kneel at the cross where Your blood was shed

Let it wash all over me

 

Chorus:

Let it wash

Let it wash

Let it wash my sins away

Just one drop, one precious drop

Will wash my sins away

 

I have brought to You a broken heart

I do not want my sin to separate me from You

So I kneel at the cross where Your blood was shed

Let it wash all over me

(Chorus)

 

“Make Us Holy”

 

Make us holy and pure

To be reflect Your face and Your glory

May our lives be wholly Yours

So we bring glory to Your name

 

We surrender to Your grace

Hearts that are willing to be changed

So the world will behold You

In our lives[i]

 

Click here to listen to the Maranatha! Singers perform these two songs.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “Wash My Sins Away/Make Us Holy,” 1998 Maranatha! Music.

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What Do You Know? – Musical Musings in March

March 22nd, 2015 dsisler

 

When my granddaughter was much younger, I used to say, “well, what do you know Joe?” Her response was always the same. “My name isn’t Joe, it’s Joy!” She is one smart cookie!

 

IMAG1492I don’t claim to be a smart woman and what I do know, I give God the credit. My memory isn’t all that great and my ability to learn has slowed. But with God in the middle of my learning experiences, I am able to “know” just a little bit more each day.

 

So what do you know? Are you allowing God to help you when you don’t feel adequate? Are you seeking God’s guidance when you need to remember something? The greatest and best Tutor is at your fingertips. Why not learn to rely on Him in every area of your life…including remembering and learning.

 

Today’s blog post is a repeat from last year’s Musical Musings in March. Enjoy!

 

“I’m Amazed” – Musical Musings in March

 

There are some things in this world that amaze me. Like the fact that we had warm temperatures yesterday…in the 50’s. Then a storm from blew through and overnight we received an inch of snow! At least it’s not the foot or two they are getting in the mountains.

 

I’m amazed at technology. The things that someone thought to try (and in some cases tried over and over until they got it right). We’ve come a long way just in my lifetime. From typewriters to computers. From film cameras to digital phone cameras. From filmstrips to DVD’s. From record players to iPods.

 

I’m amazed that we’ve been able to send men and women into space. Some have walked on the moon. We even have a roaming robot on Mars!

 

God’s creation always amazes me. The beauty of nature. The unique features of our world. The abilities and instincts of the animal kingdom. The amazing inner workings of the human body.

 

I’m amazed at the kindness of people. My heart is touched when I see goodness. I find deep joy when compassion is shared between individuals.

 

But most of all, I’m amazed at what God has done for mankind. For me. He has redeemed us through His Son. When I was most unredeemable, God amazed me.

 

Yes, God’s love, mercy, compassion, and grace amaze me every day. I pray that I never take any of these for granted.

 

I heard today’s tune on the radio last week. I love the grandiose of the arrangement, the richness of the soloist’s voice, and the hundreds of voices that backed up that beautiful voice. But most of all, I was captured by the song’s lyrics.

 

I recalled feeling alone and empty. I recalled the times I chose to wander and go astray. I recalled living a life of weakness. And then I recalled how amazing it is to live in God’s love. Yes friend, it is amazing!

 

Maybe this is a song for you. Take a look at what you can find through God’s amazing love and grace. Then reach out to Him. And you too will be amazed at what He has done for you.

 

“I’m Amazed”

 

No one knew how alone I was feeling,

And the emptiness I tried so hard to hide.

Though I laughed and said my life was fine without You,

I was covering up the secret tears I had cried.

 

Then one day someone told me of Your mercy,

And the love you have shown on a hill call Calvary.

There You died and purchased my redemption,

When You broke sins power and set my spirit free.

 

Chorus:

I’m amazed that You love me,

I’m amazed how You care.

Through Your precious blood I found pardon.

And my sins are washed, they’re all washed away.

All my sins are washed away.

 

Yes it’s true, there’s been days when I’ve failed You.

Lord you know the many times I’ve gone astray.

But I’ve learned Your love is stronger than my weakness,

And Your ear is open every time I pray.

 

No one else has ever cared for me like You Lord,

Other friends could never be as close to me.

I’m not afraid to face the problems of tomorrow,

Knowing You are everything I’ll ever need.[i]

 

Jason Crabb joined the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir to record this song. Click here if you’d like to listen. (This is the only version I could find of this song…the original version has been removed…still, it’s a great song to listen to!)

 

Life is too short to wander this earth with unamazed eyes, ears and hearts. Take a look around you. Find something to be amazed at today. And please be sure to thank God for His amazing gift…abundant life!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “I’m Amazed,” words and music by Carol Cymbala, Carol Joy Music, 2005.

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“Hide Me Behind the Cross” – Musical Musings in March

March 22nd, 2015 dsisler

 

You’ve probably been wondering what happened to me today. I know, it’s 12 hours later than I usually post. But I do have an excuse and I am sharing a great song with you today. So I’m praying you’ll give me a little slack.

 

???????????????????????????????After my husband went to work early this morning, I napped. However, Mom woke me up with the news that she thought she needed to go back to the emergency room. After talking with her doctor, we headed to the hospital. At the end of a long day, all I can tell you is that we are heading to Ohio on Tuesday. Mom will see her doctor next week and a plan of action will be set in motion.

 

When we arrived back to my house, I asked Mom what her favorite song was. Her all-time favorite is “Pieces of April” by Three Dog Night. But she knew I wanted something to write about here, so added that her favorite religious song is “Hide Me Behind the Cross.” I had heard her mention it before, but never followed through with listening to it.

 

After listening to this song, I am embarrassed to say that I should have long before today. It’s beautiful. The lyrics. The melody. The harmony. It is a song that should be my favorite song. So I’m not going to say any more. Just share this beautiful piece of music with you. Enjoy my Mom’s “favorite” song.

 

“Hide Me Behind the Cross”

 

Lord as I seek to serve You,

May You find in me what’s pleasing to Your heart.

I leave my will at Calvary,

Taking on a nature humbled by Your scars.

 

For I know it’s only through Your love,

That who I am is hidden by Your grace.

Let my desires be overshadowed,

As I recall the purpose of that place.

 

Chorus:

Hide me behind the cross,

Where my gains become as loss.

And only Your glory is in view.

Your power will be revealed.

The more that I am concealed.

Hide me behind the cross,

So the world sees only You.

 

If I rely on my strength

To be a source of hope for those in need,

The only profit I would gain

Would be the empty honor of my deeds.

But with all of self behind Your cross,

The splendor of Your love stands free to shine.

Illuminating with Your power,

Reaching souls so You alone are glorified.

(Chorus)[i]

 

You really must listen to this one. Please click here to listen to Gold City’s version of “Hide Me Behind the Cross.”

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “Hide Me Behind the Cross,” Words and Music by R. E. Patton

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“There is None Like You” – Musical Musings in March

March 20th, 2015 dsisler

 

I have found that there is an abundance of music for me to choose from for my musical writings. I have also found that I’m amazed when I realize I haven’t written about specific songs that have touched me deeply through the years. Today’s song is one of those songs.

 

0005030206R-849x565I am coming to a close in my Bible study of Gideon and while I was very excited for the possibilities of Gideon and Israel, I was disappointed that in the end, the Hebrew nation returned to their idol worship. But, I knew better. I’ve read Scripture. I’ve studied the Old Testament. I knew Israel continued in their cycle of following God and turning from God. But I thought this time, just this time, they would have understood.

 

You see, Israel searched and searched for what would satisfy their spiritual longing. They worshiped all of the idols their pagan neighbors worshiped. All the while, the One they were looking for was right in front of them.

 

I realize that I do the same thing in my life. I search and search for the one thing to satisfy me…and all the while my Creator who created me to crave Him and Him alone, stands before me.

 

Perhaps you do the same thing.

 

So what are some of the idols we exalt in our lives instead of God? Possessions, passions, goals, hobbies, habits, entertainment, eating, desires, a person. This is the short list. But you and I know that any one of these things can and will take priority over God if we allow it in our lives.

 

When we are convicted by God’s Spirit that we have an idol to remove, it’s time to toss it out to the curb. No questions. No excuses. No deals.

 

Israel had many opportunities to follow and serve the One True God. My friend, we do too. As today’s song says, “we can search for all eternity Lord, and find, there is none like You.”

 

Nothing will ever be able to take the place of God in our lives. So isn’t it about time we stop trying? Please don’t let another day go by without making God the Lord of your life…all of your life. Perhaps you can begin by singing this song.

 

“There is None Like You”

 

There is none like You,

No one else can touch my heart like You do,

I can search for all eternity Lord

And find, there is none like You.

 

There is none like You.

No one else can touch my heart like You do,

I can search for all eternity Lord

And find, there is none like You.

 

Your mercy flows like a river wide,

And healing comes from Your hand.

Suffering children are safe in Your arms,

There is none like You.

 

There is none like You.

No one else can touch my heart like You do,

I can search for all eternity Lord

And find, there is none like You.[i]

 

Click here to spend a few moments in worship.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “There is None Like You,” Words and Music by Lenny LeBlanc, Integrity Music, Hosanna Music, 1991.

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  • "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19

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