Through Redeemed Eyes

Through Redeemed Eyes http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10599&blog_id=240624 The Arts team at NewChurch Georgetown will take a closer look at the music, culture and art displayed at NewChurch, through the lens of God's redeeming eyes. EN-US Copyright © 2012 NewChurch Georgetown http://www.triplePixel.com Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 GMT http://newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/thumbnails/240624-rss-thumbnail.jpgThrough Redeemed Eyeshttp://www.newchurchgtown.org/blog.aspx?site_id=10599&blog_id=240624 A look at music, culture and the srts through redeemed eyes. The Arts Team The Arts team at NewChurch Georgetown will take a closer look at the music, culture and art displayed at NewChurch, through the lens of God's redeeming eyes. The Arts Teamchris.graves@newchurchgtown.org no Holding Onto Hope http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=300273http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=300273 Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:00 GMT Music has always been central in my life.  Music was an escape for me.  A lot of standout moments in my earlier years have a song attached to it, whether it was the Beach Boys or Mozart, or the first time I heard heavy metal.  I have a playlist for just about everything and those lists range from punk to classical to country.  I have songs for jamming in my car, songs for spring cleaning, songs for when I’m happy and songs for when I want to wallow for a while.  Most of the important people in my life have or have had a song that was “theirs”.  It doesn’t matter if it’s been 5 days or 5 years since I’ve seen them, when I hear that song, I think of them.  Most major decisions in my life have a song attached to it.  It was usually what I heard when I made the decision and most of the time it was because what the song was saying influenced that decision.  It’s not that I let songs dictate what my choice will be, but rather I always felt like it came on at that precise moment to send me a “message”.  For a long time, I thought it was “the cosmos” or whatever.  Later, when I’d come back to God, I knew it was him.  For some people, they hear him directly, maybe when they are praying, maybe in some other way.  For some people, thick headed like me, he has to use another way to get his message across.  Sometimes it’s that perfectly timed email or phone call, but most of the time, for me, it’s in music.  When I need help or guidance, when I need consoling, when I need to be inspired or sometimes when I’m trying to figure out which path to take.  Some may call it coincidence or say I’m looking for meaning.  That’s fine.  I know what I know.  This past Sunday was a key example of it.  This last month has been pretty rough.  Trying to battle this odd medical thing with different experimental solutions, hoping one would work.  Then, getting into an accident which could have been much worse, but still left its mark.  The accident bringing to light a credit issue that popped up we were unaware of that would affect us being able to close on our house.  Then facing unexpected dental bills…  Just one thing after another after another.  We’ve worked so hard to get where we are trying to get.  We hadn’t begun building yet and with several things happening to stack the cards against us, we wondered if maybe we weren’t just supposed to stay put for now.  It’s not what we “want” and to stay put and not try to go ahead with the house felt like giving up.  Was that what we were supposed to do?  Or should we keep facing these obstacles with a blind trust that it will all work out somehow?  <div style="text-align: left;">And to add insult to injury, we see all these people who are just not good people who keep getting ahead.  Taking nice vacations, having the nice new clothes, driving the fancy cars and getting the house you dream of, whose kids have no health problems that need constant attention.  It’s deflating.  And sometimes it makes you wonder, what’s the point of being good if it doesn’t get you anything?!  If you can be a complete @#$ and get ahead, why shouldn’t I?  I know it’s because I’m not just looking at the here and now and that the rewards I’m really aiming for are in a life beyond this one.  I mean, we all know the answer in our hearts but sometimes, it’s hard to hear your heart when the petty voice in your head is screaming so loudly.</div> So all of this has been in my head constantly for several weeks.  I was going to write a note to hang on the prayer wall because I really was just starting to feel a little lost in it all.  And then we sat down for Quest and “the song” came on.  Always a song.  It’s not just my imagination or me trying to make something into something else.  God really does use music to get his message across because he knows I’m more likely to be paying attention and hear it.  The band begins to play “Holding onto Hope”.  I’ve never heard this song before but instantly I feel the warmth spreading through me.  I put my hand out at the same moment as my husband and I know he’s getting the message too.  A gentle squeeze of the hand, a soft smile and a chuckle. It was an answer to everything I’d been asking.  About people getting things the wrong way, about feeling the despair and about holding on through it.  There is a purpose for it. We still haven’t figured out what are next move should be in all this.  We’ve put that decision off for a couple weeks.  What is supposed to happen will happen when it’s supposed to happen.  The weight was lifted though.  In one short song, we became centered again.  It shut up the voice in our heads that was trying to lead us wrong. Whoever chose that song may not even be able to say why they decided to play “that song”.  But I know.  It was for me, for us.  It was an answer to a prayer I hadn’t even asked yet.  It wasn’t even a definitive answer of “do this” or “no, do that”.  It was simply, “child, I know your struggle and I have a plan for you.  I have not given up on you, do not allow the rest to come between us. <img alt="" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/andrea%20price.jpg" style="width: 400px; height: 378px; float: right; border-width: 1px;border-style: solid;" /> Keep the faith and I promise all will be revealed.”   Yes, I got all of that out of one simple song.  Hold on to Hope. It’s been my theme song this week.  Whenever I’ve been dealing with whatever thi ng that’s getting me down, I play that in my head and it instantly lifts me. It's funny, I didn't understand at first why they did things the way they did.  The pastor had said they don't play what you normally hear or repeat much because when you hear something so many times, you listen but you tend not to "hear" it anymore.  He was right.  If they played what most places did and stuck to a smaller general set, I would know the words or read from a book and be able to sing along like I did at every other church before.  But if they did, I would probably have missed the message I so obvi ously needed that day.  The band at church works really hard and I know they wonder if they are doing a good job or if they are reaching people.  They do and they are. - Andrea Price <div> </div> Music has always been central in my life. Music was an escape for me. A lot of standout moments in my earlier years have a song attached to it, whether it was the Beach Boys or Mozart, or the first time I heard heavy metal. I have a playlist for just about everything and those lists range from punk to classical to country. I have songs for jamming in my car, songs for spring cleaning, songs for when I’m happy and songs for when I want to wallow for a while. Most of the important people in my life have or have had a song that was “theirs”. It doesn’t matter if it’s been 5 days or 5 years since I’ve seen them, when I hear that song, I think of them. Most major decisions in my life have a song attached to it. It was usually what I heard when I made the decision and most of the time it was because what the song was saying influenced that decision. It’s not that I let songs dictate what my choice will be, but rather I always felt like it came on at that precise moment to send me a “message”. For a long time, I thought it was “the cosmos” or whatever. Later, when I’d come back to God, I knew it was him. For some people, they hear him directly, maybe when they are praying, maybe in some other way. For some people, thick headed like me, he has to use another way to get his message across. Sometimes it’s that perfectly timed email or phone call, but most of the time, for me, it’s in music. When I need help or guidance, when I need consoling, when I need to be inspired or sometimes when I’m trying to figure out which path to take. Some may call it coincidence or say I’m looking for meaning. That’s fine. I know what I know. This past Sunday was a key example of it. This last month has been pretty rough. Trying to battle this odd medical thing with different experimental solutions, hoping one would work. Then, getting into an accident which could have been much worse, but still left its mark. The accident bringing to light a credit issue that popped up we were unaware of that would affect us being able to close on our house. Then facing unexpected dental bills… Just one thing after another after another. We’ve worked so hard to get where we are trying to get. We hadn’t begun building yet and with several things happening to stack the cards against us, we wondered if maybe we weren’t just supposed to stay put for now. It’s not what we “want” and to stay put and not try to go ahead with the house felt like giving up. Was that what we were supposed to do? Or should we keep facing these obstacles with a blind trust that it will all work out somehow? And to add insult to injury, we see all these people who are just not good people who keep getting ahead. Taking nice vacations, having the nice new clothes, driving the fancy cars and getting the house you dream of, whose kids have no health problems that need constant attention. It’s deflating. And sometimes it makes you wonder, what’s the point of being good if it doesn’t get you anything?! If you can be a complete @#$ and get ahead, why shouldn’t I? I know it’s because I’m not just looking at the here and now and that the rewards I’m really aiming for are in a life beyond this one. I mean, we all know the answer in our hearts but sometimes, it’s hard to hear your heart when the petty voice in your head is... Holding Onto Hope, Andrea Price Everybody - Macy Gray http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=286714http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=286714 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 21:00:00 GMT Itʼs in our nature, isnʼt it, to say - “Itʼs ironic...” or “coincidence” when weʼve been thinking about something in our minds - anything, any subject - and then get “nudges” from the people we encounter, the movies and art that we see, the music we hear, and all the other circumstances in the daily routines of our lives? But is it irony, really? Donʼt they remind us...push us to continue to form our opinions or to take action. Isnʼt life and our relationship with God, for that matter deeper than coincidence? I believe that when Jesus promised that weʼd have a Helper and Counselor to speak to us, move us, lead us, and convict us, he meant EVERYWHERE we go and EVERYTHING we do. Not just church, not just Christian stores full of Christian art and media....but none of us are strangers to the words, “through redeemed eyes”, so Iʼll just get to the song for the week! I &hearts; this song. The “musician” in me digs the jam with the drums and bass... but the “writer/lyricist” in me always makes me pay special attention to the words. And like I mentioned at the beginning of this blog, I had the “typical” initial thought... “well, thatʼs ironic!”. Hereʼs why: <div> </div> I have been thinking a lot about social justice and how the scope of injustice just seems to get bigger and BIGGER as time moves on. A trusted friend told me to read a book called Starving Jesus where authors, Gross and Mahon challenge their readers to move in areas of compassion ministries and social justice.Their book is a rally cry to Christians across all denominations and all ages to get “off the pew, [and] into the world.” Itʼs worth the read! I have also been rediscovering Derek Webbʼs discography and had stumbled onto these lyrics:  <blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border: none;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><img src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/derek%20webb.jpg" alt="Derek Webb" style="width: 200px; height: 240px; float: left;" /> so what must we do - here in the west we want to follow you - we speak the language and we keep all the rules - even a few we made up - come on and follow me - but sell your house, sell your suv - sell your stocks, sell your security - and give it to the poor - what is this, hey whatʼs the deal - I donʼt sleep around and I donʼt steal - I want the things you just canʼt give me.  </blockquote> (Click for all about Derek Webb: <a href="http://www.musictory.com/music/Derek+Webb" target="_blank" re_target="_blank">http://www.musictory.com/music/Derek+Webb</a>) Pretty convicting song for us N. Americanʼs who think we have this “church” thing figured out. All of this pointed me to biblical truths about what God expects from us when dealing with poverty. Lovers of mercy and justice. Because God loves justice and mercy. So, thatʼs where I was mentally and spiritually when this song, Everybody started playing on my Pandora station. The lyrics that caught my focus were: <img src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/Macy-Gray.jpg" style="width: 225px; height: 235px; float: right;" alt="Macy Gray" /> <blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border: none;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Live for yourself and you will live in vain You live for others you will live again You're either enemy or you are the friend You're talking talking we'll be glad when you're done Ain't what you say it's what you do with your love Everybody Everybody Everybody Everybody Get up get out and do something, go do your part start chipping in Everybody (Yeah Yeah) </blockquote> This is someone, outside of the perceived “Faith” communities (labeled “secular”) calling for social justice from EVERYBODY. Hereʼs the music video if you want to hear the song again. (Remember, “redeemed eyes”, people...some social justice examples expressed may not be agreeable to all). Our world is increasingly divided between rich and poor. The Bible is clear that Godʼs people have always had a responsibility to see that EVERYBODY in their society was cared for at a basic-needs level.  <blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border: none;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Ruth was able to glean wheat from Boazʼs field because God had instructed those who controlled the land " to not harvest everything, so that there would be food for the poor." </blockquote> <blockquote class="webkit-indent-blockquote" style="border: none;margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Paul pleaded, “Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed,” he wrote, “but " that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their " plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, as it is written: ʻThe one who gathered much did not " have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too littleʼ” (8:13-15, TNIV). </blockquote> For Christians, this is a justice issue or, or even more, a moral issue. It is not our fault that people are poor, diseased, starving, and thirsty... but it is our responsibility to do something about it. So, Iʼm left with a desire to change my thinking. To focus on doing my part. Like really doing it. Not just writing checks every month to the kids we sponsor. Not just serving from time to time at a homeless shelter, or throwing a “buck” at the drunk guy at our intersection. These things are great. If youʼre doing them...keep doing them. But at what point do we really understand the weight of the story of the rich young ruler? And what do we do with that? Alison Brown Itʼs in our nature, isnʼt it, to say - “Itʼs ironic...” or “coincidence” when weʼve been thinking about something in our minds - anything, any subject - and then get “nudges” from the people we encounter, the movies and art that we see, the music we hear, and all the other circumstances in the daily routines of our lives? But is it irony, really? Donʼt they remind us...push us to continue to form our opinions or to take action. Isnʼt life and our relationship with God, for that matter deeper than coincidence? I believe that when Jesus promised that weʼd have a Helper and Counselor to speak to us, move us, lead us, and convict us, he meant EVERYWHERE we go and EVERYTHING we do. Not just church, not just Christian stores full of Christian art and media....but none of us are strangers to the words, “through redeemed eyes”, so Iʼll just get to the song for the week! I ♥ this song. The “musician” in me digs the jam with the drums and bass... but the “writer/lyricist” in me always makes me pay special attention to the words. And like I mentioned at the beginning of this blog, I had the “typical” initial thought... “well, thatʼs ironic!”. Hereʼs why: I have been thi nking a lot about social justice and how the scope of injustice just seems to get bigger and BIGGER as time moves on. A trusted friend told me to read a book called Starving Jesus where authors, Gross and Mahon challenge their readers to move in areas of compassion ministries and social justice.Their book is a rally cry to Christians across all denominations and all ages to get “off the pew, [and] into the world.” Itʼs worth the read! I have also been rediscovering Derek Webbʼs discography and had stumbled onto these lyrics: so what must we do - here in the west we want to follow you - we speak the language and we keep all the rules - even a few we made up - come on and follow me - but sell your house, sell your suv - sell your stocks, sell your security - and give it to the poor - what is this, hey whatʼs the deal - I donʼt sle ep around and I donʼt steal - I want the things you just canʼt give me. (Click for all about Derek Webb: http://www.musictory.com/music/Derek+Webb ) Pretty convicting song for u s N. Americanʼs who think we have this “church” thing figured out. All of this pointed me to biblical truths about what God expects from us when dealing with poverty. Lovers of mercy and justice. Because God loves justice and mercy. So, thatʼs where I was mentally and spiritually when this song, Everybody st arted playin g on my Pandora station. The lyrics that caught my focus were: Live for yourself and you will live in vain You live for others you will live again You're either enemy or you are the friend You're talking talking we'll be glad when you're done Ain't what you say it's what you do with your love Everybody Everybody Everybody Everybody Get up get out and do something, go do your part start chipping in Everybody (Yeah Yeah) This is someone, outside of the perceived “Faith” communities (labeled “secular”) calling for social justice from EVERYBODY. Hereʼs the music video if you want to hear the song again. (Remember, “redeemed eyes”, people...some social justice examples expressed may not be agreeable to all). Our world is increasingly divided between rich and poor. The Bible is clear that Godʼs people have... Social Justice, Everybody, Macy Gray, Derek Webb, Circles, Alison Brown Discovering Who You Are? - Start With Silence http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=283442http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=283442 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT I challenged the people of NewChurch take at least an hour of their time this week to seek silence with God.  Those stories of seeking "who I am" in these moments of silence will be shared below.  I hope you enjoy the stories of transformation being shared. Thanks, Chris Graves I challenged the people of NewChurch take at least an hour of their time this week to seek silence with God. Those stories of seeking "who I am" in these moments of silence will be shared below. I hope you enjoy the stories of transformation being shared. Thanks, Chris Graves silence, self reflection, who are you People Are Strange Here At NewChurch Georgetown http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=282657http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=282657 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT ...And that is the way we think it should be. ...And that is the way we think it should be. The Doors, People Are Strange, Common Interest, People Are Strange I Felt Like I Belong http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=282655http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=282655 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT <div style="text-align: justify;">As a preachers kid, I have an extremely jaded opinion of organized religion. As such, I tend to stay quiet and in the back ground. I watch for hypocrisy so that I can use that as my excuse for not attending. I am not sure how to react when I cannot find this. </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> I thought I was staying under the radar at church. Not that I don't mind helping where I can, or participating when asked. When I walked in the door this morning I was approached by several people offering their condolences on my Saints loss but also talking about how great a game it was. The sermon or "conversation" today was about belonging. I felt like I belonged today. Michael Price <img alt="" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/370552_100000491204262_1875997983_n.jpg" /> As a preachers kid, I have an extremely jaded opinion of organized religion. As such, I tend to stay quiet and in the back ground. I watch for hypocrisy so that I can use that as my excuse for not attending. I am not sure how to react when I cannot find this. I thought I was staying under the radar at church. Not that I don't mind helping where I can, or participating when asked. When I walked in the door this morning I was approached by several people offering their condolences on my Saints loss but also talking about how great a game it was. The sermon or "conversation" today was about belonging. I felt like I belonged today. Michael Price Michael Price, Belong, Belong, New Orleans Saints, NFL, Football, Common Interest Belonging http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=282590http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=282590 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMT When my brother moved into my house in Georgetown, he asked me to start attending churches with him.  Jason and I had just met and I knew his family was very involved in a particular church, but he was not a huge fan.  I had been raised in a Mid-Western, Bible-Thumping, rust-belt church from birth to age 14 when I told my mom that I would find my own church.  I went to a Methodist church in my tiny hometown for about two years, and then stopped going altogether. What I remember most was not feeling welcomed, or unconditionally loved and celebrated.  More than once I went head to head with the pastor of my mom’s church about not being able to ask questions.  When I wanted someone to explain how you could believe in God, a being you cannot see or talk to directly, I was reprimanded for even asking.  Needless to say, when my brother asked me to attend church with him, I scoffed at the idea, but finally agreed that I would look at churches with him, but would not attend regularly. Jason was raised in a churched household as well.  He was baptized Catholic and attended the Church of God after school program.  In his words, he was “a loosely raised Christian”.  After a long dry-spell, that was born out of events that contributed to a strong distrust in God, Jason began his own, almost ironic, church-research experiment in Portland, Oregon. His idea was to use the Yellow Pages to pick different churches, take notes on why their approach failed to connect him to God, and figure out why he felt so alienated from the Christian community through a more ‘scientific’ approach.  That came to a quick end when the first church he visited stopped him ten feet in the door, extracted as much personal information as possible, and would not stop calling or visiting his home after that first Sunday.  What he also remembers noticing is that the church sat parishioners based on their attendance seniority and financial contributions (or so it appeared). Though both of us had a list of reasons to shy away from the Christian community, we found strength in braving it together so we started with some churches in the area, most of which we found on line, or Jason had heard of, or his father recommended.  One morning we were running late, my brother’s girlfriend was in town, so we did a quick search online for casual/cowboy churches in Georgetown and found our way to NewChurch.  That Sunday, I couldn’t tell you what Lee spoke about, but I remember him talking about NewChurch’s perspective on being a church for the un-churched.  I remember thinking that it was about time somebody came up with that idea. So, we were interested.  Jason and I attended once a month or so, and finally had the conversation that we felt we could use the community and guidance we believed a church offered.  As we attended more regularly, we thought we were ‘under the radar’… that no one noticed us.  Frankly, we were thrilled about it too.  We were tired of over-greeting, intrusive hand-shakes, false friendliness and the other awkward and intrusive moments shared with strangers at other churches.  After about six months of regular attendance, Jason and I decided to join a Front Porch.  As we looked at the summaries of each group after Quest, Mike Rainey approached us to see if we had any questions.  Before we knew it, we were exchanging stories about West Point (my brother was a graduate), cycling, and any variety of shared personal interests.  It was so natural to talk to someone… Jason and I felt familiar with the place and comfortable with the people (although we knew none of their names or backgrounds, and believed they knew nothing about us).  Later that week, Mike reached out and invited Jason and I to join he and his wife, Lisa for dinner at the Salt Lick.  The whole week leading up to it, Jason and I made jokes about ‘having dinner with a couple from church’ and how likely it was that our unconditional, universally accepting, but rough and rowdy ways were going to offend this nice couple.  Not having many female friends, myself (despite my desire or best attempts), I was sure that my bartender’s mouth would at the very least scare this woman away, and we would not possibly have anything in common. We could not have been more wrong. Dinner was fun, engaging and we didn’t mention religion, faith or church (aside of explaining how we started attending) even a little.  As it turns out, Lisa and I have tons in common.  Jason and Mike started making arrangements to ride bikes together.  It was a fantastic evening, all around.  We learned that we had been ‘under observation’ so to speak, for a while.  Nearly everyone in the congregation who attended regularly recognized us, yet no one ever intruded upon our process of getting comfortable.  Jason even had a nick-name, that was obviously one of affection, recognizing his distinct beard and his uniqueness.  I had braved the blue communication card our second or third time there, and as promised, no one showed up at my house.  No one called. (And yes, I entered real, accurate information.) It was seamless, the way that we suddenly felt appreciated, recognized and loved.  We didn’t have to do anything to earn that either.  We literally just showed up.  It took us about 9 months to get comfortable, to allow ourselves to demonstrate an interest in this community of people.  Little did we know that it would lead to great friends, a remarkable and strong community which is supportive of our adventures and our growth, much less finding the inspiration to be baptized.  Becoming a part of NewChurch has been a fantastic growing experience, built on the foundation of being a church for me… for us… for the Unchurched. <img src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/Pixie%20and%20Jason.jpg" alt="Pixie Gray and Jason Renna" longdesc="Pixie Gray and Jason Renna" style="border:1px solid #000000;width: 325px; height: 244px; float: right; margin-top: 1px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 1px;" /> Belonging, Pixie Gray and Jason Renna When my brother moved into my house in Georgetown, he asked me to start attending churches with him. Jason and I had just met and I knew his family was very involved in a particular church, but he was not a huge fan. I had been raised in a Mid-Western, Bible-Thumping, rust-belt church from birth to age 14 when I told my mom that I would find my own church. I went to a Methodist church in my tiny hometown for about two years, and then stopped going altogether. What I remember most was not feeling welcomed, or unconditionally loved and celebrated. More than once I went head to head with the pastor of my mom’s church about not being able to ask questions. When I wanted someone to explain how you could believe in God, a being you cannot see or talk to directly, I was reprimanded for even asking. Needless to say, when my brother asked me to attend church with him, I scoffed at the idea, but finally agreed that I would look at churches with him, but would not attend regularly. Jason was raised in a churched household as well. He was baptized Catholic and attended the Church of God after school program. In his words, he was “a loosely raised Christian”. After a long dry-spell, that was born out of events that contributed to a strong distrust in God, Jason began his own, almost ironic, church-research experiment in Portland, Oregon. His idea was to use the Yellow Pages to pick different churches, take notes on why their approach failed to connect him to God, and figure out why he felt so alienated from the Christian community through a more ‘scientific’ approach. That came to a quick end when the first church he visited stopped him ten feet in the door, extracted as much personal information as possible, and would not stop calling or visiting his home after that first Sunday. What he also remembers noticing is that the church sat parishioners based on their attendance seniority and financial contributions (or so it appeared). Though both of us had a list of reasons to shy away from the Christian community, we found strength in braving it together so we started with some churches in the area, most of which we found on line, or Jason had heard of, or his father recommended. One morning we were running late, my brother’s girlfriend was in town, so we did a quick search online for casual/cowboy churches in Georgetown and found our way to NewChurch. That Sunday, I couldn’t tell you what Lee spoke about, but I remember him talking about NewChurch’s perspective on being a church for the un-churched. I remember thinking that it was about time somebody came up with that idea. So, we were interested. Jason and I attended once a month or so, and finally had the conversation that we felt we could use the community and guidance we believed a church offered. As we attended more regularly, we thought we were ‘under the radar’… that no one noticed us. Frankly, we were thrilled about it too. We were tired of over-greeting, intrusive hand-shakes, false friendliness and the other awkward and intrusive moments shared with strangers at other churches. After about six months of regular attendance, Jason and I decided to join a Front Porch. As we looked at the summaries of each group after Quest, Mike Rainey approached us to see if we had any questions. Before we knew it, we were exchanging stories about West Point (my brother was a graduate), cycling, and any variety of shared personal interests. It... Belonging, Common Interest, Pixie Gray, Jason Renna, Welcome, NewChurch Barton Hollow by The Civil Wars http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=274377http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=274377 Sun, 27 Nov 2011 15:00:00 GMT Today, during Quest, will be taking a look at what it means to be an externally focused church.  During our planning of Quest, we discovered a great song to illustrate the importance of being externally focused.   At some point in our lives, we’ve have all been “a dead man walking.”  During that time, we consistently walked or ran in search of “something” to rescue us from our self, our choices, our sins. Some of us eventually came to the realization that ourself, our friends, our preacher and even our second chances can’t save us from our evil nature.  However, many people still live their lives like a man on the run, running from their past failures and sins, like they have a bounty on their head.   Here is the cool thing, the bounty was already paid by The Father.   As NewChurch, we are to saturate the city with the love of Christ, so that people know they do not have to run any longer.  There is a safe haven in community. There is life abundant when you love others. I hope you enjoy Barton Hollow by The Civil Wars. <div> </div><div class="Listen"><a href="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/enclosures/Barton%20Hollow%20Blog.mp3"><img src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/images/listen.png" style="margin-right:10px;" border="0" alt="" /></a></div> Today, during Quest, will be taking a look at what it means to be an externally focused church. During our planning of Quest, we discovered a great song to illustrate the importance of being externally focused. At some point in our lives, we’ve have all been “a dead man walking.” During that time, we consistently walked or ran in search of “something” to rescue us from our self, our choices, our sins. Some of us eventually came to the realization that ourself, our friends, our preacher and even our second chances can’t save us from our evil nature. However, many people still live their lives like a man on the run, running from their past failures and sins, like they have a bounty on their head. Here is the cool thing, the bounty was already paid by The Father. As NewChurch, we are to saturate the city with the love of Christ, so that people know they do not have to run any longer. There is a safe haven in community. There is life abundant when you love others. I hope you enjoy Barton Hollow by The Civil Wars. The Civil Wars, Barton Hollow, Chris Graves, Sin, Preacher, Alabama Clay, Walking, Running, Bent http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=274248http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=274248 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 23:00:00 GMT <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">I have a hard time expressing how much weight lifted off my shoulders when I realized I was bent and that my imperfections, my sins, my human failings were not things that must be purged from existence before I was worth a damn. The Creator of all things Loved me not despite my sin but simply loved me wholly and entirely, sins and all. Bent was a way to express that.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">It seems a simple thing to say but being that this was suddenly real for a 29 year old man who had called himself a Christian since he was five, grown up a pastor's kid, been a youth pastor, camp counselor, and worship leader, it was likely everything I thought I believed suddenly becoming real. It was like I was waking up. And it didn't come while reading a book about recovery, or in a prayer group or during a powerful moment in a worship service. It came while working on the tiny crew of a full length independent film about a stalker. It came while staying at the house of two of my best friends, who were both on the same crew. It came quietly after a long day of shooting, alone on guest room floor trying to write a little bit about how I was feeling. To paraphrase I wrote about being broken. Being bent. Being imperfect. Both by my very nature and by deliberate choices. I was fallen. And Human.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">And suddenly, having said all of that out loud...I felt very loved.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">It hasn't been perfect. I still struggle. I'm still very much Bent. But the road to reconciliation with myself, being the hardest person for me to accept and forgive, is much shorter than the 20 year walk it had been.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">So Bent, the film, is for me. The clinically depressed kid since grade school. The guy who lived a daily life of faking it to get by. Who had become a full on addict to escapism, especially in the form of pornography and chatting sexually online. Who was headed for a divorce and worried every day about the future of his relationship with his young daughter. And who, screw ups and all, forgave himself.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">And it's for all the other "screw ups." For the depressed and the ashamed and the anxious. The ones that compare themselves to everyone else. The ones who listened to one person's bull shit lie and began believing every lie they told themselves. Who believed that had to "get better" before they could be healed by the Great Physician. Who thought they had to be "good" to be loved by the author of love. Who needed to be spotless before being washed in the blood.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">We're all Bent. And that was the best news I'd heard in a long time.</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">Aaron Kirk</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">Writer/Director of Bent</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">Influential art during my "waking up"</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">Searching For God Knows What by Donald Miller</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">Out of the Silent Planet by CS Lewis</div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;"> </div> <div style="color: #000000; text-align: justify;">And the music of Thrice, Listener and Enter the Worship Circle </div> I have a hard time expressing how much weight lifted off my shoulders when I realized I was bent and that my imperfections, my sins, my human failings were not things that must be purged from existence before I was worth a damn. The Creator of all things Loved me not despite my sin but simply loved me wholly and entirely, sins and all. Bent was a way to express that. It seems a simple thing to say but being that this was suddenly real for a 29 year old man who had called himself a Christian since he was five, grown up a pastor's kid, been a youth pastor, camp counselor, and worship leader, it was likely everything I thought I believed suddenly becoming real. It was like I was waking up. And it didn't come while reading a book about recovery, or in a prayer group or during a powerful moment in a worship service. It came while working on the tiny crew of a full length independent film about a stalker. It came while staying at the house of two of my best friends, who were both on the same crew. It came quietly after a long day of shooting, alone on guest room floor trying to write a little bit about how I was feeling. To paraphrase I wrote about being broken. Being bent. Being imperfect. Both by my very nature and by deliberate choices. I was fallen. And Human. And suddenly, having said all of that out loud...I felt very loved. It hasn't been perfect. I still struggle. I'm still very much Bent. But the road to reconciliation with myself, being the hardest person for me to accept and forgive, is much shorter than the 20 year walk it had been. So Bent, the film, is for me. The clinically depressed kid since grade school. The guy who lived a daily life of faking it to get by. Who had become a full on addict to escapism, especially in the form of pornography and chatting sexually online. Who was headed for a divorce and worried every day about the future of his relationship with his young daughter. And who, screw ups and all, forgave himself. And it's for all the other "screw ups." For the depressed and the ashamed and the anxious. The ones that compare themselves to everyone else. The ones who listened to one person's bull shit lie and began believing every lie they told themselves. Who believed that had to "get better" before they could be healed by the Great Physician. Who thought they had to be "good" to be loved by the author of love. Who needed to be spotless before being washed in the blood. We're all Bent. And that was the best news I'd heard in a long time. Aaron Kirk Writer/Director of Bent Influential art during my "waking up" Searching For God Knows What by Donald Miller Out of the Silent Planet by CS Lewis And the music of Thrice, Listener and Enter the Worship Circle Bent, Slumber No More, Aaron Kirk, Thoughts, Lies, Truth A Welcome By Josh & Chris http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=273842http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=273842 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 21:00:00 GMT During our Slumber No More Conversation Series over the past three (3) weeks, Josh Herrington and Chris Graves shared some very special welcome videos with us.  After numerous request, here are those videos once again in one combined blog post.  I hope you enjoy! Week 1 - Pirouette by Josh & Chris Week 2 - A Twisted Welcome by Josh & Chris To see the original Bent movie, from which this welcome video was birthed, visit <a href="http://www.fromthetopturnbuckle.com/" target="_blank">From The Top Turnbuckle</a>. Week 3 - An Artsy Welcome by Josh & Chris Please let us know us know if you would like to see more videos from Josh & Chris. During our Slumber No More Conversation Series over the past three (3) weeks, Josh Herrington and Chris Graves shared some very special welcome videos with us. After numerous request, here are those videos once again in one combined blog post. I hope you enjoy! Week 1 - Pirouette by Josh & Chris Week 2 - A Twisted Welcome by Josh & Chris To see the original Bent movie, from which this welcome video was birthed, visit From The Top Turnbuckle . Week 3 - An Artsy Welcome by Josh & Chris Please let us know us know if you would like to see more videos from Josh & Chris. Welcome, Video, Painting, Twisted, Bent, Pirouette God in Art http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=271570http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=271570 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 15:00:00 GMT I had an experience where God spoke to me through art. I was attending a women's conference and noticed a painting that was painted during prayer and time with God. It said "Hope" in large blue letters with gold and yellow swirling and a river flowing out of its base. I was needing assurance that what I was battling personally was going to be taken care of. As I focused intently on the painting , God said: it's going to be ok. I am going to heal your wounded heart. I will restore what you have lost . I will fight this battle. Hold on to Me. Focus on me . I've got this. I am your stability. After this, much healing and comfort began to follow. In the past two months since then , He began to bring it to pass! Art early does speak! Also , since then, in my time with God, I have been drawing with pastels what He shows me in prayer. God really is immeasurable in the myriad ways He reveals Himself. Sincerely, Nancy Guevara I had an experience where God spoke to me through art. I was attending a women's conference and noticed a painting that was painted during prayer and time with God. It said "Hope" in large blue letters with gold and yellow swirling and a river flowing out of its base. I was needing assurance that what I was battling personally was going to be taken care of. As I focused intently on the painting , God said: it's going to be ok. I am going to heal your wounded heart. I will restore what you have lost . I will fight this battle. Hold on to Me. Focus on me . I've got this. I am your stability. After this, much healing and comfort began to follow. In the past two months since then , He began to bring it to pass! Art early does speak! Also , since then, in my time with God, I have been drawing with pastels what He shows me in prayer. God really is immeasurable in the myriad ways He reveals Himself. Sincerely, Nancy Guevara Nancy Guevara, Art, Slumber No More I Have Slumbered... http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=271569http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=271569 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 15:00:00 GMT <div style="text-align: justify;">In reference to "slumbering through life" , there was a time when that was reality for me. I had so many walls, defenses and pain. Staying numb and " asleep " in my area of desire was easier than feeling pain and getting in touch with my true desires. I have since decided to pursue healing and a deeper relationship with God. This involves waking up to life and what He has to offer. It also involves loving again and being willing to embrace pain in order to come alive. I'm finding that being alive and embracing pain is way better than being asleep and going through life in a daze. Slumbering No More, Nancy Guevara</div> In reference to "slumbering through life" , there was a time when that was reality for me. I had so many walls, defenses and pain. Staying numb and " asleep " in my area of desire was easier than feeling pain and getting in touch with my true desires. I have since decided to pursue healing and a deeper relationship with God. This involves waking up to life and what He has to offer. It also involves loving again and being willing to embrace pain in order to come alive. I'm finding that being alive and embracing pain is way better than being asleep and going through life in a daze. Slumbering No More, Nancy Guevara Nancy Guevara, Slumber No More I Am The Highway http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247646http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247646 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT <style> @font-face { font-family: "Calibri"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 10pt; line-height: 115%; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri; }.MsoChpDefault { font-size: 11pt; font-family: Calibri; }.MsoPapDefault { margin-bottom: 10pt; line-height: 115%; }div.WordSection1 { page: WordSection1; } </style> It’s weird how God sometimes speaks to you and through which media he sometimes chooses. I’ve heard this song for years and never once gave it a second thought on how it pertained to me being a follower until I was driving to the church for band practice one evening listening to the Audioslave CD my little brother accidentally left in my truck. <div align="justify"> </div> Before coming to NewChurch I was not Unchurched, I was completely opposite. I came from a very legalistic southern Baptist church and got completely burned out on being told every day what was God’s will for my life. I didn’t quit going to church because I had an attitude at God or out of rebellion like everyone told me. In fact, whenever I started going to NewChurch the same people told me that it was not God’s will for me to come here! I quit because I knew that there was more to being a Christian than letting someone else tell me where and how I am wrong every week. My journey is special to me, what may be God’s will for me may not be for you. That’s part of your journey to discover that no one else can do for you. How can someone else tell me exactly what is God’s will for me when I was created uniquely by God with my own Journey?! <div align="justify"> </div> This song made me think to myself that regardless of what people tell me or think of me that I am who I am, I am unique and I am who God created me to be and that is my Journey to live it out. <div align="justify"> </div> I am not your rolling wheel I am the Highway, I am not your carpet ride I am the sky. I am unique and myself, I am designed by God. Josh Herrington <a href="http://www.amazon.com/I-Am-The-Highway/dp/B00137MMO6" target="_blank">Purchase I Am The Highway by Audioslave</a> It’s weird how God sometimes speaks to you and through which media he sometimes chooses. I’ve heard this song for years and never once gave it a second thought on how it pertained to me being a follower until I was driving to the church for band practice one evening listening to the Audioslave CD my little brother accidentally left in my truck. Before coming to NewChurch I was not Unchurched, I was completely opposite. I came from a very legalistic southern Baptist church and got completely burned out on being told every day what was God’s will for my life. I didn’t quit going to church because I had an attitude at God or out of rebellion like everyone told me. In fact, whenever I started going to NewChurch the same people told me that it was not God’s will for me to come here! I quit because I knew that there was more to being a Christian than letting someone else tell me where and how I am wrong every week. My journey is special to me, what may be God’s will for me may not be for you. That’s part of your journey to discover that no one else can do for you. How can someone else tell me exactly what is God’s will for me when I was created uniquely by God with my own Journey?! This song made me think to myself that regardless of what people tell me or think of me that I am who I am, I am unique and I am who God created me to be and that is my Journey to live it out. I am not your rolling wheel I am the Highway, I am not your carpet ride I am the sky. I am unique and myself, I am designed by God. Josh Herrington Purchase I Am The Highway by Audioslave Josh Herrington, Audioslave, I Am The Highway, Designed By God, NewChurch The Story http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247442http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247442 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:00:00 GMT <style> p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }.MsoChpDefault { font-size: 10pt; }div.WordSection1 { page: WordSection1; } </style> <div align="justify"> </div> I am naturally a shy person. And it takes awhile before I feel safe enough to completely let me guard down. But once I feel safe in a new friendship I am true and loyal to the end. The song, The Story, is definitely one of my favorites. It will lift my mood in an instant if I’m feeling down. I think what I like most about it is it reminds me that no matter what I am going through in my life I have people who want to hear about it. I am surrounded by a community of people who know me, care for me, and genuinely want to walk life with me. I am of course talking about my husband, Chris. But it’s not just him. I feel like the artist is referring to only one person in the song, but I am fortunate to live life intertwined with others beyond my immediate family. That brings great comfort to me. However, because I am an introvert I could have missed out on sharing my story with those I live life with. It would be very easy for me to sit back and go about taking care of my own family without ever stepping out of my comfort zone into other relationships. I know this is not how God has designed us. He creates us with relationship in mind. He creates us so that we will tell our stories to others and they in turn will share their own. One of my favorite lines in the song is: <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> “All of my friends who think that I’m blessed, they don’t know my head is a mess” <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> I think one of the hardest things for me to overcome as a young woman is not having to walk around as if everything is perfect all the time. It’s a lie even if I try. The wonderful thing is through stepping out and trusting others (over time) with my raw emotions and thoughts I don’t have to pretend. I can be the “real” me and not be afraid of rejection. I can share the messiness that does go on inside my head knowing that as part of my story it will be embraced by others that I choose to share it with. And as we see-saw through life sharing our stories back and forth that bond of friendship and love will grow stronger. Becca Graves <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Story/dp/B00138H0H4" target="_blank">Purchase The Story by Brandi Carlile</a> I am naturally a shy person. And it takes awhile before I feel safe enough to completely let me guard down. But once I feel safe in a new friendship I am true and loyal to the end. The song, The Story, is definitely one of my favorites. It will lift my mood in an instant if I’m feeling down. I think what I like most about it is it reminds me that no matter what I am going through in my life I have people who want to hear about it. I am surrounded by a community of people who know me, care for me, and genuinely want to walk life with me. I am of course talking about my husband, Chris. But it’s not just him. I feel like the artist is referring to only one person in the song, but I am fortunate to live life intertwined with others beyond my immediate family. That brings great comfort to me. However, because I am an introvert I could have missed out on sharing my story with those I live life with. It would be very easy for me to sit back and go about taking care of my own family without ever stepping out of my comfort zone into other relationships. I know this is not how God has designed us. He creates us with relationship in mind. He creates us so that we will tell our stories to others and they in turn will share their own. One of my favorite lines in the song is: “All of my friends who think that I’m blessed, they don’t know my head is a mess” I think one of the hardest things for me to overcome as a young woman is not having to walk around as if everything is perfect all the time. It’s a lie even if I try. The wonderful thing is through stepping out and trusting others (over time) with my raw emotions and thoughts I don’t have to pretend. I can be the “real” me and not be afraid of rejection. I can share the messiness that does go on inside my head knowing that as part of my story it will be embraced by others that I choose to share it with. And as we see-saw through life sharing our stories back and forth that bond of friendship and love will grow stronger. Becca Graves Purchase The Story by Brandi Carlile Becca Graves, Brandi Carlile, The Story, Life, Head This is Who I Am http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247174http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247174 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:00:00 GMT <style> p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }.MsoChpDefault { font-size: 10pt; }div.WordSection1 { page: WordSection1; } </style> This is not a particularly deep song. Its lyrics are not complex or layered. It is about as straightforward as a song can be. So why is finding something to say about it so difficult? Besides the fact that I’m not much of a writer and that this blogging thing is fairly new to me, I think it might be that, while the song itself is fairly simple, it deals with one of the most complex questions rooted in the soul of all of us. “Who are we?” Third day, just like the rest of us, begins by listing things about ourselves. We are mothers and daughters, fathers and sons, brothers and sisters. Then we move on to characteristics and traits. Lovers and fighters, saints and sinners. Go a little deeper and we come up with things that we’re good at. It’s safe to say that all of these are acceptable answers when someone asks us who we are. But, as followers of Christ, is there more to it? <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> So take me as I am, <div align="justify"> </div> But please don’t leave me that way. <div align="justify"> </div> ‘Cause I know that you can <div align="justify"> </div> Make me better than I am today. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> It can’t be said much better than that. We are certainly the sum of all the parts listed in this song. But as followers, we desire to have those characteristics shaped and molded by God. To be made whole in him. And, through Christ, be a new creation. A creation that is all of these things; as well as a child of God. Thad Bergstrom This is not a particularly deep song. Its lyrics are not complex or layered. It is about as straightforward as a song can be. So why is finding something to say about it so difficult? Besides the fact that I’m not much of a writer and that this blogging thing is fairly new to me, I think it might be that, while the song itself is fairly simple, it deals with one of the most complex questions rooted in the soul of all of us. “Who are we?” Third day, just like the rest of us, begins by listing things about ourselves. We are mothers and daughters, fathers and sons, brothers and sisters. Then we move on to characteristics and traits. Lovers and fighters, saints and sinners. Go a little deeper and we come up with things that we’re good at. It’s safe to say that all of these are acceptable answers when someone asks us who we are. But, as followers of Christ, is there more to it? So take me as I am, But please don’t leave me that way. ‘Cause I know that you can Make me better than I am today. It can’t be said much better than that. We are certainly the sum of all the parts listed in this song. But as followers, we desire to have those characteristics shaped and molded by God. To be made whole in him. And, through Christ, be a new creation. A creation that is all of these things; as well as a child of God. Thad Bergstrom This is Who I Am, Third Day, Thad Bergstrom, NewChurch Escape the Cage http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247132http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247132 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 21:00:00 GMT <div class="Listen"><a href="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/enclosures/05%20Escape%20The%20Cage.mp3"><img src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/images/listen.png" style="margin-right:10px;" border="0" alt="" /></a></div> Alison Brown, Josh Brown, Shy Tree, Escape the Cage, NewChurch Sugar http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247125http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=247125 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 19:00:00 GMT Josh Brown, Sugar, Creativity, Sculpture Vitruvian Man http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=246421http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=246421 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 19:00:00 GMT <style> p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }.MsoChpDefault { font-size: 10pt; }div.WordSection1 { page: WordSection1; } </style> In a discussion with Ron about an illustration for “Designed By God,”he suggested “The Vitruvian Man,” by daVinci. I concurred and carried it out with an added “Finger of God” in Michelangelo style. Both artists are, of course, considered masters. These images connect my thoughts to the truth that God, the greatest master, created each of us as an awesome masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10). Also,they remind me that we, as followers, are part of the one body, each part being and potentially serving an integral and valuable part to make a whole. Perhaps this is the ultimate way we can give back to God who has given us so much. My hopes are that this image will also inspire you to greater service in the one body with gratitude to our Creator who so wonderfully made us. <div align="justify"> </div> In Christ, <div align="justify"> </div> Nanc Hanrahan In a discussion with Ron about an illustration for “Designed By God,”he suggested “The Vitruvian Man,” by daVinci. I concurred and carried it out with an added “Finger of God” in Michelangelo style. Both artists are, of course, considered masters. These images connect my thoughts to the truth that God, the greatest master, created each of us as an awesome masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10). Also,they remind me that we, as followers, are part of the one body, each part being and potentially serving an integral and valuable part to make a whole. Perhaps this is the ultimate way we can give back to God who has given us so much. My hopes are that this image will also inspire you to greater service in the one body with gratitude to our Creator who so wonderfully made us. In Christ, Nanc Hanrahan Nanc Hanrahan, DaVinci, Creator, Designed by God Free to be Me - Francesca Battistelli http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=246389http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=246389 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT The song "Free To Be Me" is an inspiring story of young woman who, like so many of us, doesn't quite have it all figured out, or put together. This song is a testament to her realization that God has waged and won a war for her imperfect self, and has plans to use her for just exactly who she is. She compares her imperfections to dents in a fender, rips in jeans, an incomplete puzzle, and just plain clumsiness. She follows all of that with rejoicing that when we give in and allow God to show us who we are to be ... not necessarily what we are to do ... but who we are to be ... we realize that He already created us to be exactly who we are. We are, quite simply, free to be ourselves. It is a good reminder to me, an incurable perfectionist, that even when I feel I've got absolutely nothing to offer, for some glorious reason, God simply asks me to be the me that He created me to be. Song: Free to be Me Album: My Paper Heart Artist: Francesca Battistelli At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream A war's already waged for my destiny But You've already won the battle And You've got great plans for me Though I can’t always see (Chorus) ‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender Got a couple rips in my jeans Try to fit the pieces together But perfection is my enemy On my own I'm so clumsy But on Your shoulders I can see I'm free to be me When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow But things don't always come that easy And sometimes I would doubt (Chorus) And you’re free to be you Sometimes I believe that I can do anything Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring But You look at my heart and You tell me That I've got all You seek And it’s easy to believe Even though (Chorus) The song "Free To Be Me" is an inspiring story of young woman who, like so many of us, doesn't quite have it all figured out, or put together. This song is a testament to her realization that God has waged and won a war for her imperfect self, and has plans to use her for just exactly who she is. She compares her imperfections to dents in a fender, rips in jeans, an incomplete puzzle, and just plain clumsiness. She follows all of that with rejoicing that when we give in and allow God to show us who we are to be ... not necessarily what we are to do ... but who we are to be ... we realize that He already created us to be exactly who we are. We are, quite simply, free to be ourselves. It is a good reminder to me, an incurable perfectionist, that even when I feel I've got absolutely nothing to offer, for some glorious reason, God simply asks me to be the me that He created me to be. Song: Free to be Me Album: My Paper Heart Artist: Francesca Battistelli At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream A war's already waged for my destiny But You've already won the battle And You've got great plans for me Though I can’t always see (Chorus) ‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender Got a couple rips in my jeans Try to fit the pieces together But perfection is my enemy On my own I'm so clumsy But on Your shoulders I can see I'm free to be me When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow But things don't always come that easy And sometimes I would doubt (Chorus) And you’re free to be you Sometimes I believe that I can do anything Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring But You look at my heart and You tell me That I've got all You seek And it’s easy to believe Even though (Chorus) Free, Me, Designed by God, being, doing, jeans, fender, Francesca, Battistelli, Lisa Rainey Faith Darling - Why I Knit http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=246374http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=246374 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 14:00:00 GMT <style> @font-face { font-family: "Times"; }@font-face { font-family: "Times"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: Times; }.MsoChpDefault { font-size: 10pt; font-family: Times; }div.WordSection1 { page: WordSection1; } </style> During quest last week, I spun some soft Shetland wool into yarn. This week, we are knitting tiny hats to donate to the St. David’s Medical Center NICU in Austin. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> All my life, I’ve loved to make things with my hands. Growing up in a family of 9 children, we didn’t have a lot of money for extras. Instead of asking for accessories for my doll, or furniture for my dollhouse, I was always trying to figure out ways to make it all myself. Out of necessity was born innovation; my grandma taught me to knit, and my mother to sew. My dad was a general contractor, so we could always find bits and pieces of wood, bottles of wood glue, half-used tins of house-paint, and hammers and nails. One time my dad built us a clubhouse in the backyard because he didn’t want to make us a tree-house that we could fall out of. We promptly sourced some wood and nails and built ourselves a rickety ladder to climb the roof of the clubhouse, and that’s where we’d play. I’m not sure my dad knew that. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> When I started having my own children, I started knitting in earnest, realizing that it was a versatile and useful art that could just as easily transfer from my living room to the playground. Being able to create sweaters, mittens, hats and socks as I watch my children play is immensely satisfying. Every time that I clean my house, the children immediately throw Cheerios on the floor. Every time I make dinner, it is promptly eaten. When I knit, however, I can watch a beautiful project evolve, stitch by stitch, and I can feel like I actually made progress with something that day. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> Second to the joy of creating things is the joy of sharing it. I like to blog about my artistic adventures in spinning yarn, knitting, sewing, cooking and baking, showing progress pictures of my work, sharing stories about my creative process, and getting feedback from my fellow blogging friends and readers. I love finding meaning in the mundane and beauty in the stark simplicity of the everyday. Faith Darling <div class="Listen"><a href="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/enclosures/Faith%20Darling%20Knitting.mp3"><img src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/images/listen.png" style="margin-right:10px;" border="0" alt="" /></a></div> During quest last week, I spun some soft Shetland wool into yarn. This week, we are knitting tiny hats to donate to the St. David’s Medical Center NICU in Austin. All my life, I’ve loved to make things with my hands. Growing up in a family of 9 children, we didn’t have a lot of money for extras. Instead of asking for accessories for my doll, or furniture for my dollhouse, I was always trying to figure out ways to make it all myself. Out of necessity was born innovation; my grandma taught me to knit, and my mother to sew. My dad was a general contractor, so we could always find bits and pieces of wood, bottles of wood glue, half-used tins of house-paint, and hammers and nails. One time my dad built us a clubhouse in the backyard because he didn’t want to make us a tree-house that we could fall out of. We promptly sourced some wood and nails and built ourselves a rickety ladder to climb the roof of the clubhouse, and that’s where we’d play. I’m not sure my dad knew that. When I started having my own children, I started knitting in earnest, realizing that it was a versatile and useful art that could just as easily transfer from my living room to the playground. Being able to create sweaters, mittens, hats and socks as I watch my children play is immensely satisfying. Every time that I clean my house, the children immediately throw Cheerios on the floor. Every time I make dinner, it is promptly eaten. When I knit, however, I can watch a beautiful project evolve, stitch by stitch, and I can feel like I actually made progress with something that day. Second to the joy of creating things is the joy of sharing it. I like to blog about my artistic adventures in spinning yarn, knitting, sewing, cooking and baking, showing progress pictures of my work, sharing stories about my creative process, and getting feedback from my fellow blogging friends and readers. I love finding meaning in the mundane and beauty in the stark simplicity of the everyday. Faith Darling Faith Darling, Knitting, Knit, Designed, By God I Love Your Presence & Iris http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=245689http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=245689 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:00:00 GMT <div align="justify"> I Love Your Presence is one of those songs that has few lyrics, but is very moving nonetheless. We don't do very many 'sing-along' type songs, mostly because (I believe) they're sometimes repetitive and a bit dull. I'm not usually one to listen to 'churchy' music, but this is one that definitely gets stuck in my head, and I find myself humming it without even thinking. It speaks of the peace we find in just being in His presence. This is something I've really tried to focus on in the past year or so, which is sometimes difficult with three kids and a demanding job. It's amazing though, how much easier life is when you just take a breathe and remember that He's got everything under control, even if you don't. Josh decided we should try it with the chorus from "Iris" by the Goo Goo Dolls inserted into it, since it has a similar chord progression. It sounded pretty<img align="left" style="width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/../Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/Board.jpg" /> good, but we wanted to push it a little further and incorporate a few more elements of the song. So, I sat down at the computer and spent about 4 hours mixing stuff together until it sounded right. I'm extremely happy with the result, it's very seamless and flows well. I like the lyrics also, when viewed in the context of this song, it's like a plea to truly be known by God, even if the world around you is falling apart. Chris Graham </div> I Love Your Presence is one of those songs that has few lyrics, but is very moving n onetheless. We don't do very many 'sing-along' type songs, mostly because (I believe) they're sometimes rep etitive an d a bit dull. I'm not usually one to listen to 'churchy' music, but this is one that definitely gets stuck in my head, and I find myself humming it without even thinking. It speaks of the peace we find in just being in His presence. This is something I've really tried to focus on in the past year or so, which is sometimes difficult with three kids and a demanding job. It's amazing though, how much easier life is when you just tak e a breathe and reme mber that He's got everything under control, even if you don't. Josh decided we should try it with the chorus from "Iris" by the Goo Goo Dolls inserted into it, since it has a similar chord progression. It sounded pretty good, but we wanted to push it a little further an d incorporate a few more elements of the song. So, I sat down at the computer and spent about 4 hours mixing stuff together until it sounded right. I'm extremely happy with the result, it's very seamless and flows well. I like the lyrics also, when viewed in the context of this song, it's like a plea to truly be known by God, even if the world around you is falling apart. Chris Graham Chris Graham, Goo Goo Dolls, Iris, I Love Your Presence Hello World http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=245080http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=245080 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:00:00 GMT <div align="justify"> Once it was decided that the song Hello World would be on the schedule for this conversation series I wanted to research the story behind the words. I discovered the concept behind this song is about fifteen years old. The writer, David Lee, originally wrote the song lyrics when he was 27 years old. David Lee originally titled the song Hello Heart and put the song in storage until a few years ago. Lee teamed with Tom Douglas and Tony Lane to re-write the tune. The changed the chorus, the first verse and finally the title. Hello Heart then became Hello World. <img alt="" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/file:///Users/ChrisGraves/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/moz-screenshot.png" /> When Lady Antebellum was recording their fourth album, Need You Now, they were searching for one more ballad to be added to the work. Someone from within the studio had Hello World, recorded as a demo, on their iPod. Lady Antebellum fell in love with the message of the song. It's a big ballad, the song they close their show with. It's really powerful. I am reminded once again of what I have come to realize over the past 10 years of my transformation of becoming a fully functioning follower. I am dedicated to loving my neighbor as myself. The bridge of the song can easily be an anthem for living in community. "Well the empty disappears and I remember why I’m here. Just surrender and believe and I fall down on my knees. Well hello world, Hello world, Hello world!" For so long I lived a life glorified and please with myself, because I had accepted the "call" and I would now get to spend eternity in the Kingdom. It theological error on my part. The kingdom, can be inherited, enjoyed, and shared now. There is a huge world out there crying out for love and community, will you join me in saying Hello! ? Chris Graves </div> <div align="center">Traffic crawls, cell phone calls Talk radio screams at me through my tinted window I see A little girl, rust red minivan, she’s got chocolate on her face Got little hands and she waves at me Yeah, she smiles at me Chorus Well, hello world How you been Good to see you, my old friend Sometimes I feel cold as steel Broken like I’m never gonna heal And I see a light, a little hope in a little girl Hello world Every day I drive by a little white church It’s got these little white crosses Like angels in the yard Maybe I should stop on in, say a prayer Maybe talk to God like He is there Oh, I know He’s there Yeah, I know He’s there Well hello world How you been Good to see you, my old friend Sometimes I feel as cold as steel And broken like I’m never gonna heal And I see a light, a little grace, a little faith unfurls Well hello world Sometimes I forget what living’s for And I hear my life through my front door And I breathe it in Oh, I’m home again And I see my wife Little boy and little girl Hello world Hello world Well the empty disappears I remember why I’m here Just surrender and believe I fall down on my knees Well hello world Hello world Hello world ? ? </div> Once it was decided that the song Hello World would be on the schedule for this conversation series I wanted to research the story behind the words. I discovered the concept behind this song is about fifteen years old. The writer, David Lee, originally wrote the song lyrics when he was 27 years old. David Lee originally titled the song Hello Heart and put the song in storage until a few years ago. Lee teamed with Tom Douglas and Tony Lane to re-write the tune. The changed the chorus, the first verse and finally the title. Hello Heart then became Hello World. When Lady Antebellum was recording their fourth album, Need You Now, they were searching for one more ballad to be added to the work. Someone from within the studio had Hello World, recorded as a demo, on their iPod. Lady Antebellum fell in love with the message of the song. It's a big ballad, the song they close their show with. It's really powerful. I am reminded once again of what I have come to realize over the past 10 years of my transformation of becoming a fully functioning follower. I am dedicated to loving my neighbor as myself. The bridge of the song can easily be an anthem for living in community. "Well the empty disappears and I remember why I’m here. Just surrender and believe and I fall down on my knees. Well hello world, Hello world, Hello world!" For so long I lived a life glorified and please with myself, because I had accepted the "call" and I would now get to spend eternity in the Kingdom. It theological error on my part. The kingdom, can be inherited, enjoyed, and shared now. There is a huge world out there crying out for love and community, will you join me in saying Hello! ? Chris Graves Traffic crawls, cell phone calls Talk radio screams at me through my tinted window I see A little girl, rust red minivan, she’s got chocolate on her face Got little hands and she waves at me Yeah, she smiles at me Chorus Well, hello world How you been Good to see you, my old friend Sometimes I feel cold as steel Broken like I’m never gonna heal And I see a light, a little hope in a little girl Hello world Every day I drive by a little white church It’s got these little white crosses Like angels in the yard Maybe I should stop on in, say a prayer Maybe talk to God like He is there Oh, I know He’s there Yeah, I know He’s there Well hello world How you been Good to see you, my old friend Sometimes I feel as cold as steel And broken like I’m never gonna heal And I see a light, a little grace, a little faith unfurls Well hello world Sometimes I forget what living’s for And I hear my life through my front door And I breathe it in Oh, I’m home again And I see my wife Little boy and little girl Hello world Hello world Well the empty disappears I remember why I’m here Just surrender and believe I fall down on my knees Well hello world Hello world Hello world ? ? Chris Graves, Hello, World, Lady Antebellum Roll Away Your Stone http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=244088http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=244088 Sun, 13 Mar 2011 14:00:00 GMT <div align="justify"> <style> @font-face { font-family: "Arial"; }@font-face { font-family: "Arial"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }.MsoChpDefault { font-size: 10pt; }div.WordSection1 { page: WordSection1; } </style> </div> <img border="3" align="left" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/27857_399082423570_699173570_4064846_2043602_n.jpg" style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); width: 175px; height: 234px;" />My husband is an aspiring perfectionist; you just have to look at how he arranges the donuts to see that. He played violin for years as a child and young adult, ultimately playing in a youth symphony. His Great Grandfather helped to balance (or corrupt) his classical training, by sharing his knowledge as a self taught, down home, Irish Fiddler. Great Grandfather has been gone a long time now and Jason hasn’t played a great deal over the last few years, only tuning up now and then for the children’s entertainment. So when he was invited to join the excellent NewChurch band to play this song, there were some mixed emotions. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> The story in this song is from the perspective of a new Follower of Christ. He’s realized that he’s been trying to fill the void in his soul with worldly things and that just hasn’t worked. He’s trusting in the understanding that through God’s grace his previous choices have been forgiven. What he’s questioning, however, is whether the people, the Church, will also extend that same Grace. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> The lines that particularly resonate with me come part way through the song: <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> It seems as if all my bridges have been burned, You say that’s exactly how this grace thing works It’s not the long walk home that will change this heart, But the welcome I receive with the re-start <div align="justify"> </div> I remember very clearly feeling that same anxiety, when in my mid 20’s, I re-started my life as a Follower. I was a single parent and felt that all my bridges had been burned, and quite rightly so. I came to understand that a lot of my relationships had been unhealthy. That I was not a ‘safe’ person and I needed to let God do lot of work on me (and that work still continues). But I was fortunate that I was gently mentored and loved by a lady who had known me since I was a child. Through this woman, I experienced what we are called to do as a Church. Number 5 on Pastor Lee’s list - The culture is one of forgiven sinners, not self-righteous religious Pharisees. She is a strong and faithful Follower and during the previous few years when I had turned my back on God, she had continued to love me, regardless. I had never felt any condemnation from my friend, but I was filled with shame that someone like her could continue to love a very unlovable me. She always saw me as forgiven and celebrated with me when I was able to accept this gift too. Her welcome at my re-start was unconditional. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> The last three lines of the song speak defiantly. I live in this world but chose, at that turbulent time in my life, to reject those worldly things that threatened to take my soul. I reclaimed and re-started my authentic self as a Follower of Christ. <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> But you, you’ve gone too far this time You have neither reason nor rhyme With which to take this soul that is so rightfully mine <div align="justify"> </div> <div align="justify"> </div> So, as I listen to my perfectionist husband re-start his life as a musician, I see so many parallels with my path as a Follower. It isn’t always harmonious and sometimes, there are a few bum notes. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Roll-Away-Your-Stone/dp/B0038BIQW2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1299909281&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Purchase Roll Away Your Stone</a> Alicia Yoder My husband is an aspiring perfectionist; you just have to look at how he arranges the donuts to see that. He played violin for years as a child and young adult, ultimately playing in a youth symphony. His Great Grandfather helped to balance (or corrupt) his classical training, by sharing his knowledge as a self taught, down home, Irish Fiddler. Great Grandfather has been gone a long time now and Jason hasn’t played a great deal over the last few years, only tuning up now and then for the children’s entertainment. So when he was invited to join the excellent NewChurch band to play this song, there were some mixed emotions. The story in this song is from the perspective of a new Follower of Christ. He’s realized that he’s been trying to fill the void in his soul with worldly things and that just hasn’t worked. He’s trusting in the understanding that through God’s grace his previous choices have been forgiven. What he’s questioning, however, is whether the people, the Church, will also extend that same Grace. The lines that particularly resonate with me come part way through the song: It seems as if all my bridges have been burned, You say that’s exactly how this grace thing works It’s not the long walk home that will change this heart, But the welcome I receive with the re-start I remember very clearly feeling that same anxiety, when in my mid 20’s, I re-started my life as a Follower. I was a single parent and felt that all my bridges had been burned , and quite rightly so. I came to understand that a lot of my relationships had been unhealthy. That I was not a ‘safe’ person and I needed to let God do lot of work on me (and that work still continues). But I was fortunate that I was gently mentored and loved by a lady who had known me since I was a child. Through this woman, I experienced what we are called to do as a Church. Number 5 on Pastor Lee’s list - The culture is one of forgiven sinners, not self-righteous religious Pharisees. She is a strong and faithful Follower and during the previous few years when I had turned my back on God, she had continued to love me, regardless. I had never felt any condemnation from my friend, but I was filled with shame that someone like her could continue to love a very unlovable me. She always saw me as forgiven and celebrated with me when I was able to accept this gift too. Her welcome at my re-start was unconditional. The last three lines of the song speak defiantly. I live in this world but chose, at that turbulent time in my life, to reject those worldly things that threatened to take my soul. I reclaimed and re-started my authentic self as a Follower of Christ. But you, you’ve gone too far this time You have neither reason nor rhyme With which to take this soul that is so rightfully mine So, as I listen to my perfectionist husband re-start his life as a musician, I see so many parallels with my path as a Follower. It isn’t always harmonious and sometimes, there are a few bum notes. Purchase Roll Away Your Stone Alicia Yoder Mumford & Sons, Roll Away Your Stone, Grace, Alicia Yoder, Church Secrets http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=243206http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=243206 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT I’m a pretty good liar. Well, maybe “liar” isn’t the right word. I don’t like to be open about issues affecting me—let alone discuss them with anyone. I would rather shove issues deep down inside and never have to deal with them than be open and actually admit I have a problem. So when I am surrounded by a community that values an “Authentic faith and life”, it makes me a little uncomfortable. I know I need to be real. I know I need to be genuine, honest and open about what’s really going on. I hear my Pastor share openly during Quest about his struggles and see the freedom that brings and I read James 5:16, “Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed.” So maybe I should give this a shot. So that’s my sec<img align="left" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/../Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/OneRepublic.jpg" _moz_resizing="true" style="width: 250px; height: 202px;" />ret. I’m learning to be real with God, myself and others. Like the song says: “Tell me what you want to hear Something that were like those years Sick of all the insincere So I'm gonna give all my secrets away This time, don't need another perfect line Don't care if critics never jump in line” “I'm gonna give all my secrets away.” Angela Herrington I’m a pretty good liar. Well, maybe “liar” isn’t the right word. I don’t like to be open about issues affecting me—let alone discuss them with anyone. I would rather shove issues deep down inside and never have to deal with them than be open and actually admit I have a problem. So when I am surrounded by a community that values an “Authentic faith and life”, it makes me a little uncomfortable. I know I need to be real. I know I need to be genuine, honest and open about what’s really going on. I hear my Pastor share openly during Quest about his struggles and see the freedom that brings and I read James 5:16, “Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed.” So maybe I should give this a shot. So that’s my sec ret . I’m learning to be real with God, myself and others. Like the song says: “Tell me what you want to hear Something that were like those years Sick of all the insincere So I'm gonna give all my secrets away This time, don't need another perfect line Don't care if critics never jump in line” “I'm gonna give all my secrets away.” Angela Herrington Angela Herrington, Secrets, One Republic Safe Place http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=243205http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=243205 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT I think what I like best about the song "Safe Place" is that it reminds me I can be quiet with God. I don't have to do anything or be anything in order to be with Him. I can just rest and be safe and <img align="right" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/Safe%20Place.jpg" style="width: 250px; height: 188px;" />accepted. Sometimes it's as simple as putting your head down in a quiet room and remembering that Jesus saved you and you are safe just as you are. The music almost lulls me to sleep and I let go of my own need to somehow impress God with my own spiritual performance, and let the truth that I am entirely accepted take my breath away. Jessica Kirk I think what I like best about the song "Safe Place" is that it reminds me I can be quiet with God. I don't have to do anything or be anything in order to be with Him. I can just rest and be safe and accepted. Sometimes it's as simple as putting your head down in a quiet room and remembering that Jesus saved you and you are safe just as you are. The music almost lulls me to sleep and I let go of my own need to somehow impress God with my own spiritual performance, and let the truth that I am entirely accepted take my breath away. Jessica Kirk Jessica Kirk, Safe Place, Church Jesus In New Orleans - Over The Rhine http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=242848http://www.newchurchgtown.org/blogentry.aspx?site_id=10599&entry_id=242848 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:00:00 GMT The music of Over The Rhine has, in a rather profound way, served as the soundtrack to much of my wife’s and my relationship over the years. Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, this husband and wife duo have birthed simple, soulful melodies for their extremely loyal fan base for over 20 years. My wife, Faith and I love all of Linford and Karen’s work but there was just something captivating about their 2003 double-di<img align="right" style="width: 250px; height: 125px;" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/../Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/overtherhine-sp1.jpg" />sc set Ohio. We bought this record shortly after its release, during our first big family move from New York to Georgia and on our way down south we were fortunate enough to see the band play live in central Pennsylvania. <div align="justify"> </div> Upon arrival in Georgia, Ohio was on regular rotation in our humble, two-bedroom apartment, especially during chance dinner parties with friends. It’s one of those records that you can just let play, but certainly not because it is mere white noise. Whenever we’ve played the music of OTR for people, there are nearly unanimous expressions of adulation, which is definitely awesome but also frustrating because most people have never heard of the band. As Linford jokingly remarked once, “We talked about the fact that we [have] 21 new songs and not one damn hit.” Most of this stems from the fact that these two artists have upheld a sedulous pursuit of uncompromising work, never willing to acquiesce to big-selling formulas. <div align="justify"> </div> <img align="left" style="width: 250px; height: 313px;" src="http://www.newchurchgtown.org/Content/10599/Through%20Redeemed%20Eyes/Over%20The%20Rhine.jpg" alt="Over The Rhine" />Of any song on Ohio, song number four, “Jesus in New Orleans” immediately jumped out as my favorite. The simple poetry of finding Jesus during chance encounters with strangers speaks so profoundly of simply being the church to someone wherever you are. In a conversation with Peter, Jesus himself said something about where two or three are gathered together, there He is in the midst. <div align="justify"> </div> It is these simple statements of introspection, failure, and love that Over The Rhine so masterfully weave into their art. Check out a lengthy review of Ohio here (insert hyperlink: <a href="http://www.overtherhine.com/cd11_reviews.php">http://www.overtherhine.com/cd11_reviews.php</a> ) as well as detailed reviews and notes on their other 20 records. Greg Darling Over The Rhine (courtesy of Greg Darling) The music of Over The Rhine has, in a rather profound way, served as the soundtrack to much of my wife’s and my relationship over the years. Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, this husband and wife duo have birthed simple, soulful melodies for their extremely loyal fan base for over 20 years. My wife, Faith and I love all of Linford and Karen’s work but there was just something captivating about their 2003 double-di sc set Ohio . We bought this record shortly after its release, during our first big family move from New York to Georgia and on our way down south we were fortunate enough to see the band play live in central Pennsylvania. Upon arrival in Georgia, Ohio was on regular rotation in our humble, two-bedroom apartment, especially during chance dinner parties with friends. It’s one of those records that you can just let play, but certainly not because it is mere white noise. Whenever we’ve played the music of OTR for people, there are nearly unanimous expressions of adulation, which is definitely awesome but also frustrating because most people have never heard of the band. As Linford jokingly remarked once, “We talked about the fact that we [have] 21 new songs and not one damn hit.” Most of this stems from the fact that these two artists have upheld a sedulous pursuit of uncompromising work, never willing to acquiesce to big-selling formulas. Of any song on Ohio , song number four, “Jesus in New Orleans” immediately jumped out as my favorite. The simple poetry of finding Jesus during chance encounters with strangers speaks so profoundly of simply being the church to someone wherever you are. In a conversation with Peter, Jesus himself said something about where two or three are gathered together, there He is in the midst. It is these simple statements of introspection, failure, and love that Over The Rhine so masterfully weave into their art. Check out a lengthy review of Ohio here (insert hyperlink: http://www.overtherhine.com/cd11_reviews.php ) as well as detailed reviews and notes on their other 20 records. Greg Darling Over The Rhine (courtesy of Greg Darling) Greg Darling, Jesus, New Orleans, Over The Rhine