Blogspot has been very valuable to me, but I have now moved to a Wordpress platform on my own website. All the posts on this site have been archived across. Go across and have a look!
Blogspot has been very valuable to me, but I have now moved to a Wordpress platform on my own website. All the posts on this site have been archived across. Go across and have a look!
I identify with this song because it reminds me of my own
circumstances, and that this world is not my home.
In 1987 I left my home town of Christchurch, to move to
Wellington for better work opportunities.
When I arrived, I felt a bit like a fish out of water: the
weather was worse, the pace of life was much faster, and the people were not as
friendly.
Inside I knew I had to make a go of it, but there was always
that niggle to throw in the towel and go back home.
But Christchurch changed. The people I used to mix with,
well most had moved on with their lives as well. More so now that the 2010/11 earthquakes have levelled
the CBD, and changed the entire landscape - when I visit, I can’t get my
bearings anymore because the iconic landmarks I used to find my way around, have gone.
Everything had changed.
Borrowing from the song, I was lost between two shores - Wellington
is fine, but it ain’t home, Christchurch is home, but it ain’t mine no more.
But then I remember that, as a Christian, regardless of
where I live, none of this world is my home.
Going back to the past is pointless, because it can never be
as I remember it.
And moving on to potentially something better is just as pointless, because I’ll just start pining
for what I have now.
So, I just wait.
I wait for Christ to return.
I wait to see Him burst through the clouds, or knit together
my separated bones from my rotten carcass in the grave - to carry me away to
the place he has prepared for me in advance.
A place where I will be content for all eternity: a place I
can truly call “home”.
Until then, I will never be completely satisfied with this
world.
…and that’s OK by me.
Enjoy!
Lyrics (courtesy lyricsfreak.com):
L.A.'s fine, the sun shines most the time
And the feeling is 'lay back' Palm trees grow, and rents are low But you know I keep thinkin' about Making my way back Well I'm New York City born and raised But nowadays, I'm lost between two shores L.A.'s fine, but it ain't home New York's home, but it ain't mine no more
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I'm not really a Country music fan, but this song has a special place in my heart. Hank Williams recorded this song way back in 1948, and it went on to become the top ranked 'Greatest Songs of Faith' in Country Music Television. The words read like a Gospel story - man buried under the weight of sin, and rescued and brought into eternal life by a gracious Saviour. In his later years, my Dad developed a real love for Country music. It was a bit of a shock for us all, because he really only listened to Christian music. But he regularly attended the local Country and Western Club, and would occasionally get up and loosen the vocal chords to whatever song the band were covering.
When the family learnt of this, we planned a nice surprise for him. On his 80th Birthday, six of us children all donned cowboy hats. With one of my brothers on the guitar, and myself on the harmonica, we all belted out a personalised rendition of this song that spoke about our big, blended family. He listened with tears in his eyes, and gave us a standing-O at the end! Enjoy!
Lyrics (courtesy azlyrics.com):
I wandered so aimless, life filled with sin I wouldn't let my dear saviour in Then Jesus came like a stranger in the night Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I saw the light I saw the light No more darkness no more night Now I'm so happy no sorrow in sight Praise the Lord I saw the light.
Just like a blind man I wandered along Worries and fears I claimed for my own Then like the blind man that God gave back his sight Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I saw the light I saw the light No more darkness no more night Now I'm so happy no sorrow in sight Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I was a fool to wander and a-stray Straight is the gate and narrow the way Now I have traded the wrong for the right Praise the Lord I saw the light.
I saw the light I saw the light No more darkness no more night Now I'm so happy no sorrow in sight Praise the Lord I saw the light.
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I love this song for the words. They talk of standing up for what you believe in, regardless of however people treat you. When you become a Christian, your attitudes and heart change direction 180 degrees, like going from swimming downstream to upstream. You feel like the whole world has now turned you into public enemy No.1. You suddenly find out who your real friends are. But that's OK, because Jesus already warned us that would happen: John 15:18-25 (NKJV) 18 "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it
hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet
because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore
the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, 'A servant is not greater
than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they
kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21
But all these things they will do to you
for My name's sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me. 22 If I had
not come and spoken to them, they would have no sin, but now they have no excuse
for their sin. 23 He who hates Me hates My Father also. 24 If I had not done among
them the works which no one else did, they would have no sin; but now they have
seen and also hated both Me and My Father. 25 But this happened
that the word might be fulfilled which is written in their law, 'They hated
Me without a cause.'
I do not have to fear because I believe in the One who casts out all fear. For the Dylan purists, here's a raw live version:
I also love this Sinead O'Connor cover version:
Lyrics (courtesy lyricsfreak.com): They ask me how I feel And if my love is real And how I know I'll make it through And they, they look at me and frown They'd like to drive me from this town They don't want me around 'Cause I believe in you. They show me to the door They say don't come back no more 'Cause I don't be like they'd like me to And I, I walk out on my own A thousand miles from home But I don't feel alone 'Cause I believe in you. I believe in you even through the tears and the laughter I believe in you even though we be apart I believe in you even on the morning after Oh, when the dawn is nearing Oh, when the night is disappearing Oh, this feeling is still here in my heart. Don't let me drift too far Keep me where you are Where I will always be renewed And that which you've given me today Is worth more than I could pay And no matter what they say I believe in you. I believe in you when winter turn to summer I believe in you when white turn to black I believe in you even though I be outnumbered Oh, though the earth may shake me Oh, though my friends forsake me Oh, even that couldn't make me go back. Don't let me change my heart Keep me set apart From all the plans they do pursue And I, I don't mind the pain Don't mind the driving rain I know I will sustain 'Cause I believe in you.
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We all do it, don’t we? Every time we go to watch our nations’
National sporting teams go into battle with anothers’, we stand and sing our
respective National Anthems with great gusto.
It fills us with pride. It gives us spectators a lift, and
those competitors a purpose for the battle – to defend their country’s honour
against the other.
Most National Anthems laud the beauty and spectacle of their
respective country, the spirit and pride of the people, and the honour to dwell
in its’ borders and be its’ ambassador to the rest of the world.
And there is nothing wrong with having pride in your own
country. But did you ever stop and give thanks to God for His bountiful provision,
and protection?
That is why I love the New Zealand National Anthem.
Yes, it
speaks of the gift of beauty.
But it also goes a step further to thank the Giver for the
gift, and ask for protection.
It is a prayer directed to the Creator of our beautiful country, although seldom treated as such.
The anthem was written as a poem by Thomas Bracken of Dunedin, in the 1870's. It was set to music in 1876, but only officially became New Zealand's National Anthem in 1977.
Actually, we have 2 official National Anthems. The original one, God Save The Queen, is still recognised, but seldom sung by New Zealanders.
God Defend New Zealand has 5 verses, but normally only the Maori and English first verses are sung. I love this folky version from Cindy Ruakere.
Enjoy!
Lyrics (courtesy Ministry for Culture and Heritage) E Ihowā Atua, O ngā iwi mātou rā Āta whakarangona; Me aroha noa Kia hua ko te pai; Kia tau tō atawhai; Manaakitia mai Aotearoa
God of Nations at Thy feet, In the bonds of love we meet, Hear our voices, we entreat, God defend our free land. Guard Pacific's triple star From the shafts of strife and war, Make her praises heard afar, God defend New Zealand.
Men of every creed and race, Gather here before Thy face, Asking Thee to bless this place, God defend our free land. From dissension, envy, hate, And corruption guard our state, Make our country good and great, God defend New Zealand.
Peace, not war, shall be our boast, But, should foes assail our coast, Make us then a mighty host, God defend our free land. Lord of battles in Thy might, Put our enemies to flight, Let our cause be just and right, God defend New Zealand.
Let our love for Thee increase, May Thy blessings never cease, Give us plenty, give us peace, God defend our free land. From dishonour and from shame, Guard our country's spotless name, Crown her with immortal fame, God defend New Zealand.
May our mountains ever be Freedom's ramparts on the sea, Make us faithful unto Thee, God defend our free land. Guide her in the nations' van, Preaching love and truth to man, Working out Thy glorious plan, God defend New Zealand.
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This song is especially meaningful for me, for three reasons: Firstly, the uplifting lyrics. They speak of true friendship and loyalty regardless of the circumstances. Secondly, the hauntingly beautiful voice of Art Garfunkel that sends shivers down my spine. Thirdly, this was my late mothers' favourite song. I remember that when it came on the radio, she would quickly turn it up and sing along at the top of her voice. A special song, with special lyrics, evoking special memories. Enjoy!
Lyrics, courtesy lyricsfreak.com: When you're weary Feeling small When tears are in your eyes I will dry them all I'm on your side When times get rough And friends just can't be found Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down
When you're down and out When you're on the street When evening falls so hard I will comfort you I'll take your part When darkness comes And pain is all around Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down
Sail on Silver Girl, Sail on by Your time has come to shine All your dreams are on their way See how they shine If you need a friend I'm sailing right behind Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind
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There is probably no other Christian anthem that stirs the heart like this famous hymn! Translated and composed by Stuart K. Hine, from the 1886 poem "O Great God", by Carl Boberg, it speaks of the awesome nature of our God - creating a special world for us to enjoy; loving us enough to spare us from His wrath in offering His Son as a sin sacrifice on our behalf; and the promise of eternal fellowship with Him after death. Here are the lyrics of the original version, but for a special treat I thought I would post a New Zealand Maori version. This song is sung at almost every Maori funeral. There is something special and heart-warming when the Maori folk come together with just a guitar as accompaniment, and sing with love and passion with their unique, hauntingly beautiful tones. I found this Maori / English version on Youtube, and it brought tears to me eyes. It is a tribute from friends of 'Audrey Phillips', and features (among others) artists Fourtunate, Vince Harder, and 2009 Australian Idol winner Stan Walker front and centre. Stan is a full-blooded Maori, even though he was born in Australia. These people are affectionately known as Maori Auzzies, or 'Mozzies'. It is obvious from the clip that not all of them know the words, but you can still worship with your eyes closed if that distracts you! Enjoy!
Lyrics to this version: Whakaaria mai Tōu rīpeka ki au Tiaho mai Rā roto i te pō Hei kona au Titiro atu ai. Ora, mate, Hei au koe noho ai (x2) (Translation: Show Your Cross to me Let it shine there in the darkness To there, I will be looking In life, in death Let me rest in Thee.) When Christ shall come With shout of acclamation And take me home What joy shall fill my heart Then I shall bow In humble adoration And there proclaim My God, how great Thou art Then sings my soul My saviour God, to Thee How great Thou art How great Thou art Then sings my soul My saviour God, to Thee How great Thou art How great Thou art.
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Here's one of those songs that can give you goosebumps when you hear it. It's a common song that's sung at football matches in the UK, adopted primarily by the Liverpool Football Club, being from the home of the band. It's a song of hope. When things are going from bad to worse, there will be something sweet at the end of it. It reminds me of the security I have in Christ. I can go through storm after storm after storm, and still feel secure in the knowledge that He holds my eternity in His hands (Psalm 121).
Lyrics (courtesy lyricsfreak.com): When you walk through a storm, hold your head up high And don't be afraid of the dark. At the end of a storm there's a golden sky And the sweet silver song of a lark.
Walk on through the wind Walk on through the rain Though your dreams be tossed and blown. Walk on, walk on With hope in your hearts And you'll never walk alone You'll never walk alone. Walk on, walk on With hope in your hearts And you'll never walk alone You'll never walk alone.
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This beautiful hymn touches my heart for a number of reasons:
Firstly, it speaks of the beautiful peace we can have when we know whatever gets thrown our way, we can have assurance that God is working things out for good for us because we love Him (Rom 8:28)
Secondly, it was one of my father's favourite hymns. He loved the old ones, and he sung them with great gusto. This was like his anthem, peace personified in a turbulent world. I remember singing this at his funeral, struggling to get the words out.
Lastly, the story behind the song.
Horatio Spafford was a successful lawyer and property dealer in the 19th century. However, he lost his son Horatio Jr to Scarlet Fever when he was only four years old. Then he lost almost all of his property fortune in the great Chicago fire in 1871.
In order to get away from Chicago, Spafford decided to move his family to England. However, when the time came to set sail, a business emergency prevented him from sailing, so he sent his family on ahead and promised to set sail a few days later.
Tragically his wife's ship was struck by a British steel ship and sank- most of the passengers drowned, including all four of Spafford's daughters. Spafford took the next available ship to Britain to be with his wife Anna. During the journey, the captain called him to the bridge to inform him that that he believed he was passing over the site of the shipwreck. Spafford then went to his quarters and penned this great hymn.
Horatio and Anna soon returned to Chicago, and were blessed with three more children. One of the sons they also named Horatio, but unfortunately he also fell to the same disease as his brother, at the same age as well.
Spafford knew tragedy. He suffered immeasurable loss. But he also had a great comforter in his God. He knew that all things ultimately work for good because God was in control. Six of his eight beautiful children were at home with The Lord, and he knew that was a better place for them.
Soak in the beautiful words of this amazing hymn, remembering God's wonderful peace and assurance.
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This song by Billy Joel has a whole lot of truth in it. Anyone can tell you what they want you to hear. And if you're desperate enough for the truth, you are willing to look in even the wrong places to find it, to our peril. But the problem is, everybody lies.
We lie to save face. We lie to protect others. We lie to cover the sordid truth. Then we lie to protect our lies. Then we forget which lies we've told to whom, and spend our time trying to cover this up with more lies. Then we die. Then we face God on Judgement Day. Then we find that we can't hide anymore for our lies. Then He tells us that lying lips are an abomination to Him (Prov 12:22). Then He tells us that all liars will have a part in the lake of fire (Rev 21:8). And that's the truth.
Lyrics (curtoesy lyricsfreak.com)
If you search for tenderness
It isn't hard to find You can have the love you need to live But if you look for truthfulness
You might just as well be blind It always seems to be so hard to give
Honesty is such a lonely word Everyone is so untrue Honesty is hardly ever heard at I need from you
I can always find someone To say they sympathize If I wear my heart out on my sleeve But I don't want some pretty face To tell me pretty lies All I want is someone to believe
Honesty is such a lonely word Everyone is so untrue Honesty is hardly ever heard And mostly what I need from you
I can find a lover I can find a friend I can have security Until the bitter end Anyone can comfort me With promises again
I know, I know
When I'm deep inside of me Don't be too concerned I won't ask for nothin' while I'm gone But when I want sincerity Tell me where else can I turn Cause you're the one that I depend upon
Honesty is such a lonely word Everyone is so untrue Honesty is hardly ever heard And mostly what I need from you
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OK, first up is getting my priorities straight... As a Christian, God is centre and foremost to everything in my life. It therefore seems an appropriate place to start this journey. This song thanks Christ for dying on the cross in my place, so that when I stand before God on Judgement Day, He can dismiss those sins that Christ covered up, and grant me eternal life.
Phatfish is a UK Worship band that continuously pumps out biblically sound worship songs. They have quickly become my favourite worship band.
The music is modern - not generally my taste, but because of the lyrics I can bear it! Enjoy!
Lyrics (courtesy Lyricsfreak.com):
I see You hanging there, nailed to a splintered wooden beam, Drinking pain and sorrow, breathing agony. And in those dark, dark hours as life drained from Your flesh and bones, I know my life had it's begining at Your cross, And I thank You.... (CHORUS) For the cross where You bled, For the cross where You died, For the cross where You've broken Satan's back, For the cross where You won, For the cross of victory, For the cross where You paid the price for me. You were my substitute in laying down Your life for mine, Being cursed and bearing God's wrath for me. You were crushed by my sin - Your punishment has brought me peace, By the wounds You suffered I'm alive and healed. And I thank You.... (CHORUS) Two days in the grave and then You rose up from the dead. Now You reign in glory, rule in righteousness And I was raised with You, free at last from all my sin, Safe forever in the home of my King. And I thank You.... (CHORUS) I'm free at last from all my sin, safe forever with my King (repeat to fade)......
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Hi All Welcome to my new blog! I really just started this blog so that I would have a collection of some of my favourite music. There are moments in your life where you hear a song, and it strikes a chord (pardon the pun!) in your soul. This can be anything from a Nursery Rhyme to an Anthem, Beethoven to The Beatles, Opera to Organic Punk (no, I didn't make that up, google it for yourself). Everyone has their tastes, and no two people have the same. So what influences mine? Well firstly and foremost, being a born-again Christian has an enormous sway. This immediately discounts songs that have blasphemous lyrics and themes against my Creator. I subscribe to the old adage of garbage in, garbage out. If my mind is being stuffed with impure information, then my mouth, hands, and feet will surely follow. Having said that, I can't just label all non-Christian music as worthless. Some have themes we can all identify with and relate to, while still having a clear conscience from our beliefs. While singing '3 Blind Mice' doesn't glorify God as such, it only offends Him if it becomes a replacement of my worship of Him. That's how I see it, anyway. I grew up in Christchurch, New Zealand, in the early 60's. Being the youngest of 6 kids, I lived quite a sheltered life - I was protected from a lot of all the goings on in the world. This included a lot of the music I was subjected to in my early years as well. I can remember my parents singing to Ray Charles' 'I Can't Stop Loving You' on the radio in the kitchen. I can remember my mum humming hymns while doing the housework, and everyone tells me she used to sing 'Sleepy Joe' to me, to wake me in the morning. I can remember my sister dancing to all the protest folk songs in her paisley dress and a flower in her hair. I remember my other sister crooning to The Bay City Rollers 'Saturday Night', dancing to Abba's 'Waterloo', as well as doing the Brooklyn Shuffle to the Bee Gees 'More than a Woman' (she'll probably slap me for saying that...). I remember my brother's obsession to Boney M's 'Night Flight To Venus' album, as well as Meatloaf's 'Bat Out Of Hell'. Hmmm, not very honouring there, are we? (I'll definitely get a slap for saying that...) As for my own taste, well it was probably more middle-of-the-road easy listening. I could handle a bit of rock, but none of the head-banger stuff. I enjoyed singing along to songs whose lyrics had some sort of meaning for me. I couldn't be bothered with songs about sexual escapades . Meatloaf's "Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad' seemed pointless to me - 'I want you, I need you, but there ain't no way I'm ever gonna love you' - how stupid is that? Anyway, I don't want to give away too much - you'll work it out as you go along! I will be tweaking things here and there as I go, so don't be surprised if the next time you visit things have changed. First music post coming soon... Enjoy!
