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What’s on your mind? This time of year can evoke images of the quintessential “lazy, hazy days of summer,” but in actuality my mind is spinning just trying to recover from the busyness of “Maycember.” If I’m not careful with my thoughts, I can easily get anxious and overwhelmed.
What we fill our minds with is important. Philippians 4: 7-8 says “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus…whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
When I’m worrying, am I focused on what is true? When I’m critical, am I thinking about things that are lovely? Comparing myself to others or dwelling on what I lack – that’s not an accurate picture or healthy view of things.
However, when we choose to dwell on God’s promises, we notice His blessings, even when things feel uncertain. Our minds may not understand His peace, but He covers us with it. We remember that He will redeem and restore; we start to recognize that we have nothing to fear.
Debbie has been on a challenging journey lately. She shares, “God has been using Lifesongs. I can’t tell you how often a song has come on – just what I needed to hear! God is good! God is faithful! You make a difference in people’s lives!”
Your generous giving means LifeSongs is there to help Debbie keep her thoughts focused on God’s goodness. Thank you! No matter what may be on your mind today, I hope that as you listen, you can reflect and ponder on God’s faithfulness through the song lyrics, the prayers, the encouragement, too, and allow God to fill your heart and mind with His truth and protect you with His peace.
Pat Barrett’s got a fire! He encourages the LifeSongs family with a Zoom into the LifeSongs Morning Show. Learn about his dad Marty – touring with Brandon Lake – and what the fire of the Holy Spirit is doing in younger generations seeking a true faith-filled life!
(Transcribed by UniScribe (https://www.uniscribe.co). )
– Your favorite musicians, exclusive interviews, local artists, all on the LifeSongs podcast. – It’s the LifeSongs morning show. I have Josh and I’m very excited to welcome via Zoom, Pat Barrett. Pat, how you doing? – Hey, doing great. Good morning. – Is Pat short for Patrick Patagonia Tree? – Yes.
Yes, it’s short for Pat with more T’s. No, I was, my actual name is Joseph. Joseph Patrick Martin Barrett. And my dad, I was like, “Dad, why didn’t you call me Joseph?” And his response was always like, “Well, I just didn’t really get around to it.” I was like, “Wait, what?” So I became, I was Patrick. And then when I was in fifth grade, there was another Patrick in our class. And my teacher was like, “I can’t do this. One of y’all has to be named something different.”
So she says, “Who’s going to be Pat?” And I just raised my hand. And then it became Pat from then on out. Your teacher couldn’t handle two Patricks in the class? See? And that’s why I’m like, did I remember that correctly? But I think I did because she was unwilling to do like the Patrick B or Patrick G thing. She wanted no last names. I don’t know why.
different time. I don’t know. Yeah, that’s just lazy. I’m 45, so, like, in every class of school, it was, there were 14 Joshes. Like, we were all Josh. Oh, yeah. Yeah. See, and that’s why I was a little surprised, because Patrick, we’re out there, but we’re not, we’re not a Josh or Steven or anything.
Ryan, you know, like we can do this. But she was like she didn’t she wanted none of that. Let’s talk about I’ve Got a Fire. The song and the album great for so many reasons. The song is is so great. The saxophone solo. Come on. Why can’t every song have a saxophone solo?
I know. I know. I’ve asked myself and I’m doing my part, okay? You are. Let the record show I’m doing my part. Your dad in the music video is the sweetest thing ever. The first time I saw the video, I immediately emailed a link to my dad so that he could watch it. It was like Field of Dreams. I just wanted to play catch. It was great. Yeah. Oh my gosh. That’s the feeling I had when we were filming it because it started off like, oh, this will be so fun and funny and joyful. And then also…
while we were filming it, I was like caught off guard by how emotional I was kind of getting. So I was like, I’m having a forever memory moment with my dad and I recognize that in real time. I also think like my kids seeing a video of their dad dancing in a fountain with his dad is such a, it’s just such a beautiful picture. And one day I hope if my kids ever asked me to do it, I’ll return the favor because
how much joy it’s brought me. So I just– Dad has also, since the music video, he’s jumped in on tour dates as well. Oh, I saw one of the live performances of him, like, working his way through the crowd. That was so great. He did that– he did that, like, four or five times during the Brandon Lake tour that we just wrapped up. It’s not only was that– was the music video such a sweet memory, it’s had this continuing fun father-son, like, experience for us. So it’s been really sweet.
I’m sure Brandon Lake was very cool with that idea because he brings his kids up on stage all the time. Oh yeah, oh yeah. Like I have video of Lake dancing with my dad while my dad’s got a cowbell. Oh my goodness. I mean, come on. There’s footage. Yeah, I mean, so it was not only like, oh, allowed. It was welcomed and encouraged and just, I mean, so wild.
I’ll tell you like every night, every night was different but definitely on that second leg like once you’ve done the tour, you’ve gone through the set that many times, you lean more into moments like that that make it that night so specific and special and different and we felt like kids out there. And I’m in my, again, I’m in my 40s so like
Getting to feel that way and to, at this point in my life, I’m still saying yes to Jesus. I’m saying yes to leaning in to the Holy Spirit and His leading and purpose and plan in my life. Like, the “I’ve got a fire” thing is just funny because Dad was such a picture of that for me growing up.
and something to model like kind of one of those like Paul like follow me as I follow Christ type things like gosh this was modeled for me like how the older I get I can still grow younger in faith and have faith like a child and grow in wisdom but never grow out of childlike faith
That’s what’s been really, really fun. And just a reminder, I felt like a kid again, you know, past six months. And I want to keep it. I want to keep that flame burning.
I’m so glad that you got to do that with your dad and that he’s been a part of this amazing season in your career, which is really cool. And how you got to feel that childlike wonder and to express yourself in that way, which for just a second, it clicked in my brain why I love the whole Sons of Sunday thing that you’re in. It’s like if the kids from the Sandlot started a worship band. Yes, yes, that feeling is…
I mean, it was like, my only regret is that we didn’t do it sooner. You know? Yeah. Because that has been…
What a great picture. I love the Sandlot. I mean, that was like my childhood. The feeling of doing something you love with people you love. When you’re doing your own thing and writing your own individual record, that’s got another joy all of its own. But when you get to do something like that and share it with guys and something that feels unique, it’s a new thing. It’s like, oh, you bring your peace. You bring your peace, your personality, the way you write, the way you see the world. And we’ve already had so many of those moments that we haven’t shared before.
behind the scenes writing song. So to kind of like let people in on that and continue, it’s the best. Is there a new Sons of Sunday project coming out? One More Day is being pushed on the radio things right now, but we’re still writing. We still write a ton and I would not be surprised. It hasn’t been recorded if that’s what you’re asking, but it’s always in the chat.
I don’t know if this song has been released for radio or not, but I was watching your performance in My Father’s Business the other day, and there’s a line that you sing a lot in the song that has just… It caught me off guard. It’s, God forgive us for times we called it praise, but it was show business. This is the heart behind the commandment of not using God’s name in vain. Our industry, the music industry, is so guilty of this all the time. Yeah.
How do you merge these two? This identity of, like, my job is to be on stage and to sing songs and to entertain, but also to lead worship and to be truly present with God. Yeah, I mean, that’s literally why I wrote the song is because I feel calling it attention is a polite word for it. It’s actually, it’s one of the things that Jesus warned the most about, and it was religious showmanship, right?
was a big deal to Jesus. Giving people the appearance of righteousness without the deep formation that happens in discipleship and walking with Jesus, which is why, I mean, when you read the Sermon on the Mount, so many of those things that he talks about have to do with no one else seeing them. So when you give,
Don’t let your one hand know what the other hand is doing. Don’t give to be seen by other people. Don’t fast to be seen. Don’t pray long, lengthy prayers and wear long, flowing robes of people. Especially in our world is a constant reality check. Why are we doing the things that we’re doing? Are you writing a song because you want to be famous? Or are you sharing a song because of the way it’s helped you in your life?
And I think that doing the internal work of like, okay, this is kind of what David prayed in the Psalms, Lord, search me and know me. You know, when I wake and when I rise, if there’d be any wicked way in me, lead me in the path everlasting. Like there’s a,
There’s a prayerfulness that, a deep prayerfulness and accountability for people who do public religious work. I think a really great way in practical terms would be for every one public moment that’s like you being the leader and sharing your spiritual songs and worship, for every one public moment,
there should be nine private ones. That’s good. So then the totality of your leaning into God and even leadership is not in front of other people. It’s behind closed doors. So then you never assume that position is more than what it really is. Because does God care about you more when the camera’s on or when the song’s out? No, He cares about you the same.
And sometimes we mix that up. And then it can get even deeper. I can open up my journal. As a songwriter, when you’re, oh, I need to write a song, I’m going to open the scriptures and I’m going to not read because I care about it, read because I need some content. Yeah, you’re mining content. Yeah. And so I think there’s that song. I’m so glad no one’s talked to me about that song, by the way. I love it. I love it. I think that’s a very abrasive…
check to myself. I don’t want to lead worship or say I’m leading worship when deep down I’m the one who wants the praise and I’m the one who wants the attention and I’m the one who wants the eyes on me. And that song is, it’s a prayer of mine. It makes me sad for the times that that’s been true. And then it’s also created a path to honesty of when I’m like, oh God, like I just, my guard was down back there and I was
I kind of lost sight of the goal. And I think there’s such mercy and grace that’s found there in repenting. And I think that’s one of the, in the song too, it’s not just about like, here’s a critique of what we’re doing. It’s like, no, here’s an invitation back to repent and to continually not take the high position to take the low one. I think when those practices are part of your life, it absolutely levels the playing field. You don’t think more highly of yourself than you ought to. And you stop
trying to get attention that actually belongs to somebody else. And I think it’s a daily walk, but I think it’s really important. The world is on fire. You got wars all over, viruses, the Met Gala, it’s all awful. The Met Gala! You just threw out the Met Gala! Yeah, I mean Zendaya didn’t even show up, so what’s the point? But every night on your tour, you get to see a very different kind of fire. You see young generations pouring their hearts out in worship.
What are you seeing that would bring hope to us? Oh, wow. Where do I even start? I am seeing a desire for authenticity that, especially in younger people, that will make you a little nervous. People are growing very disinterested in the pageantry of cultural, I want to say cultural Christianity, but I just mean like the showmanship without the deep, honest,
conversations revolving around it or people opening up their lives and sharing in real terms, not broad, how God is impacting and helping them. And some of it, I mean, I’m a songwriter, so like I care a lot about the word choice. I think oftentimes we are not practiced enough in saying the thing we actually feel. And so we end up saying things like, “Hey guys, pray for me. It’s just been a tough season,” which is true. But the Falcons had a tough season.
We can do better with how honest we are about our life. And when we’re honest about it, we can let God into it. When we’re explicit about the things that we feel, the good, the bad, and the ugly. And what I’ve found to be encouraging is when you lean into that, all of a sudden, you realize that God wants to be a part of every single area of your life.
not the showy ones. It’s funny that show business line, it’s a different, yeah, pageantry is the word. Like we’re not interested in playing church. Sure. I don’t want my kids, when my kids think about discipleship, I don’t want them to think about a building. I want them to think about a conversation with somebody who loves them and is helping share Jesus with them in their life in a way that makes an impact first. And then I also want them to think about church and all that stuff. But not only that.
So I think there’s even a more growing, there’s a hunger for that type of, there’s a leaning into that type of faith that I think really pleases the heart of God. And it makes the fire burn bright because it’s not dependent on all the other stuff. Thinking about the younger generations that bring this desire for something truly real, not something packaged, but something a little jagged, a little raw. They are probably the most
They know all the vocabulary when it comes to emotional health and mental health. They’ve been in counseling since they were two. But they bring that to the world of following Jesus and find
the truth is Jesus is God of that. He’s big enough to handle all these intense emotions and all these things. It’s not just you have to be in this box in order to experience Jesus. It’s He’s there with you. I’ve got teenagers at home, so I’m grateful that they’re entering into young adulthood in the next few years with that world present.
I’m more hopeful for them and their church experience than some of the stuff that I’ve experienced. Yeah, yeah. And I am often reminded, I mean, I’m the same way, but it’s even different for them. They have been marketed to their entire life. Right. Digitally, commercially. When Jesus and faith and spirituality feel like a marketing ploy or a means to
build some business or some brand or some other thing like that’s like you’re not going to trick them yeah so if it’s not real to you don’t think it’s going to come across as real to them and their ability to sniff that out is uncanny so and it should be a challenge to any other leader that has myself included where you’re like well if I just present it the right way then it’s going to feel like no
The invitation is to embody the things, the life that Jesus has invited us into, and not just talk about it. And you can tell, if we’re all honest, when you get around somebody and you’re like, you live this. So I think that’s the encouragement. It’s…
There’s too much on the line. Life is too precious. The invitation of God is too miraculous. There is a kingdom to participate in and talking about it and dressing it up really nicely in our Sunday’s best is not…
That’s not what we’re talking about. We’re talking about living a life of the life that Jesus came to show us and died and rose to display and give us like that. Like this is this is real. And that makes me really hopeful. I mean, when I say hopeful as a dad, I’m like, that’s that’s the right that’s the right conversation to be having.
Your favorite musicians, exclusive interviews, local artists, all on the LifeSongs Podcast.
(Transcribed by UniScribe (https://www.uniscribe.co). )
Have you ever dreamed of defying gravity, seeing the galaxy, exploring the stars? Astronauts are now going farther from Earth into space than ever before. I can’t fathom all that goes into a moon mission. And the amount of faith it takes to be willing to go on such a journey?
Wow.
Big picture: I trust in God. But there are many times I realize I’ve been leaning too much on my own understanding. It’s like I’m constantly trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. Letting go, giving it to God and allowing Him the control vs. gripping too tightly on our own takes faith. But He is making our paths straight. Even when things don’t fit in the neat boxes we’ve set up, even when the timeline is different than we expected, even when the outcome doesn’t look how we anticipated, He is at work!
Recently, things didn’t go quite as we’d planned. During Shareathon, over a thousand friends gave generously and, through Second Harvest, those gifts also helped provide over 8,500 meals to our community! We are SO grateful!
As for the budgeted need for LifeSongs, however, we came up about $20,000 short. This is one of those opportunities for us to lean on God, trusting He will provide. Would you pray for God to meet these needs? If you’d like to help, your gift can reach more people like Jessica.
She says, “I have listened to LifeSongs my whole life. It has brought me comfort when nothing else could. I’m learning to rely on HIM instead of myself. I need that connection with him. Life can be tough, but you truly make a difference. I hope this ministry continues to grow and touch others out there who need it. (We ALL do).”
God is using your giving to LifeSongs to provide comfort and connection for Jessica, and hope and encouragement for so many more. Our mission may not be to the moon, but you are joining us in something even greater: Sharing the love of Jesus. Thank you!
The Winter Olympics are here! Well, not here. In Italy, but their time has come.
Athleticism and coordination have never been strengths of mine. (I essentially failed every part of the Presidential Physical Fitness tests we were subjected to in school. Fun times.) Maybe that makes me appreciate those competing in the games all the more, though. Imagine if they featured a regular person (or me) in these competitions. That comparison would surely emphasize all the hard work and effort these athletes put in. (Also, comedic relief!)
We watch, we cheer, we are in awe of the accomplishment of nailing a triple axel on the ice or a bobsled team from an island nation winning a medal – but what draws us in most are the stories. What these competitors have had to endure, what they’ve overcome. How people in their lives believed in them and their dreams. Their determination, focus and faith.
You may not be competing for a medal on an international stage, but chances are you’ve had obstacles to overcome, dark days to walk through, opportunities to lean on God and the people He’s placed in your life to remind you of His goodness, to give you hope to cling to.
For Lindsey, that source was LifeSongs. She shares, “When I was going through one of the worst times in my life, LifeSongs was there. LifeSongs ministered to me through the ministry, and I felt Jesus through/in the music, always hearing exactly what I needed to hear when I needed to hear it. I am happy to continue supporting because I know how important this is and if it is a way I can spread God’s word, then it is my mission to do that!”
Because YOU gave, God used LifeSongs to help Lindsey through one of the biggest challenges in her life. It has inspired her to spread God’s word! If LifeSongs had medals of gratitude to award, you’d be at the top of that podium. Thank you for sharing the Hope of Jesus by giving.
If you had to use just three words to describe your January, what would they be? “Long, dark, cold.” “King cake time!” Or maybe “fresh new start?” (More than likely, it was all of the above.)
There’s just something about the start of a new year that has us naturally reflective and motivated. We’ve got a fresh resolve to try new things, eliminate some that haven’t worked, and focus on healthier habits in our lives. Writing in that prayer journal, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, opting for a slightly smaller slice of king cake – making even small changes can have bigger, lasting impacts.
That’s the idea behind LifeSongs’ Be Kind Bingo, too. You never know how a simple act of kindness might brighten someone’s day and have a ripple effect of HOPE in our world. It’s a fun way to make a difference in our community together as we love God and love our neighbors.
Rick shares, “Thank you brothers and sisters for sharing your heart for God throughout the year. You make it easier to be content in all situations and stay focused on Jesus through all trials and tribulations. As we move spaces through another calendar, may it always be one space closer to God and filled with more and more people doing His will on earth, as it is in heaven. We CAN and WILL do all things through Him! Thank you all for continuing to keep us focused and encouraged throughout the year.”
Would you join Rick and your LifeSongs family in sharing kindness and encouragement in 2026? Together, we can make a difference this year!
Some New Years celebrations arrive with fireworks and high hopes: this is gonna be THE year! Other times, New Years arrives and we find ourselves looking around, hesitant to declare any sort of triumph because, honestly, we’ve been burned.
We’ve purchased gym memberships that went unused.
We made spiritual goals that went un-met.
We prayed prayers that felt unanswered.
Can I offer some New Years’ advice? Don’t be afraid to declare your goals. Don’t let a hard fought past decide your hope-filled future. One of the great gifts of God is changing seasons and celebrations (the Bible is FILLED with them). We can go from wandering in the desert to living in the Promised Land at any moment!
Every new year/week/day is an opportunity to live for God’s Kingdom – to become who He is shaping us to be and experience God’s great Mercy. So make those plans and goals and hopes and dreams! Trust that no matter what happens, God has a plan, and that plan includes YOU in His Kingdom.
And thank you so much for living that faithful, hopeful life with LifeSongs. Together we can bring encouragement and hope to countless lives, yours and mine included
Happy New Year!
We hope your Christmas was filled with incredible joy, celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior!
As the year rapidly comes to a close, this is a wonderful time to reflect on the blessings of 2025 and look forward to the opportunities of the new year. LifeSongs is grateful for your partnership, which allows us to share Jesus with Southeast Louisiana every single day.
Your financial gift makes an incredible difference to this ministry! And since LifeSongs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry, your year-end gift is tax-deductible for 2025—but you must act before midnight on December 31st.
While the holidays are a time of joy for us, many are still searching for hope. Every song we play and every message we share is an opportunity to point them to Jesus. Thank you for making that possible. Each person God reaches through LifeSongs is because of you!
Karen said, “My radio stays on 24 hours a day in the house, in the kitchen. And I love the fact that when I wake up in the middle of the night and I hear the song that’s playing, I just love that. It’s just so much peace that flows through this house. And I know, it’s because of LifeSongs.”
If you are not currently a monthly donor, we encourage you to start the new year with a resolution to give monthly in 2026. Your recurring monthly gift allows us to consistently pursue our mission: “Sharing God’s love with Southeast Louisiana through authentic and uplifting radio.”
We are so blessed by your partnership. Your giving is what makes LifeSongs possible, and we are incredibly thankful that you choose to stand with this ministry as we head into an exciting new year.
To claim your tax deduction for 2025, your gift must be postmarked or completed at LifeSongs.com by midnight, December 31st. Your support now ensures we can hit the ground running in 2026!
The Christmas season is here! Is there a gift you received in your lifetime that you will always treasure? Maybe it’s something you got as a child, or something a loved one made for you. Perhaps it’s not something tangible, but something someone did for you or time they spent with you. There’s always a story behind a meaningful gift. What’s yours?
I can think of many that stand out over the years. A hard to find toy I didn’t think anyone knew I wanted. Homemade pottery from a relative. Someone giving the gift of their time – it may feel like a small gesture, but it can mean the world to someone who needs it.
Thanksgiving the day may be over, but a season of thanks & giving continues. As we reflect on the many things we have to be grateful for (and those memorable gifts we still treasure), let’s embrace a spirit of giving. You never know – your gift could be the one someone never forgets.
Breann recently shared with us, “I grew up in a small town in Canada and my family stumbled across your radio station, and it’s been our go-to station ever since. After my husband and I got married, we had a season of baby loss – it was an incredibly difficult time in our lives. In the darkest moments when I felt so broken, I would turn on your station and even though I was in pain, it uplifted my soul the only way that a Christian community can. I would cry and sing and just praise through it all. Our rainbow baby is just over 6 months old now and I want to thank LifeSongs for helping me to carry on through that season. The grief is still there but I know LifeSongs is just a click away in the times of celebration and also the times of pain. Thank you.”
Thank you so much for your generous gifts to LifeSongs. You are the reason LifeSongs was there for Breann when she needed it most. So many of us need a message of hope. As we celebrate this season with Christmas music on LifeSongs, our prayer is that anyone who stumbles across these familiar holiday songs would find the true thrill of HOPE: Jesus.
We wish you a merry Christmas and may you treasure the greatest gift ever given, our Savior.
I’m so thankful for the friendship and partnership we have with Global Maritime Ministries!
On Giving BACK Tuesday (The National Day of Giving #givingtuesday) we teamed up with the Port Ministry to give out Christmas treats and goodies to the truckers working the Port of New Orleans and it was such a joyful experience! We danced to Christmas music on LifeSongs to keep warm as we shared hot chocolate and coffee and cookies and presents with the hard working truck drivers.
It was the most Christmassy thing I can remember doing in recent years. I hope and pray you get to experience that real joy of Christmas this year – through giving and serving and loving well. And while Christmas music only lasts through December 25th, that spirit of love is alive and well all year long on LifeSongs! That’s because of your generous giving.
And we are so very thankful.
We got to shake hands, fist bump and hug nearly a hundred truck drivers and share stories while chugging lots of hot cocoa. The men and women who keep goods flowing in and out of the Port of New Orleans literally make our modern lives possible. And they were so kind and excited to celebrate Christmas with us on a blustery December Tuesday.
Our friends at Global Maritime Ministries work all year long with Port workers, and the men and women who serve aboard the ships that flow in and out of New Orleans and other locations in Southeast Louisiana. They share the Gospel and the love of Jesus every day to folks who are far from home – folks who then take the seed of the Gospel with them around the world! Be in prayer for those efforts and be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see how the Good News is changing lives at sea!
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Mmmmm…I can almost smell the cornbread dressing and the pecan pie already. Thanksgiving is almost here! I love this opportunity to sit down together and connect over a family meal. Putting phones away and welcoming friends and family to the table is something I count as a blessing. Even though there may be awkward moments or tension, food allergies or burnt pie crusts, there are also stories to share and laughs to be had together. And the food!
While it can be tempting to give in to frustration or focus on what we lack, I want to encourage you to look through a lens of gratitude. We have so much to be thankful for! We are blessed by a God who loves us. That is reason alone to be grateful. 1 Chronicles 16:34 reminds us to “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever!” One way we can express our gratitude is through our actions. With a thankful heart, let’s extend this great love to others. Invite them to your table. Choose forgiveness. Be kind and encouraging. Bring joy to others. Let someone know how much you appreciate them and why. Be a generous listener. Look for opportunities to share the HOPE we have in Jesus.
In fact, we’ve got one way you can do just that, coming up Thanksgiving evening at 8pm! That’s when LifeSongs becomes your Christmas soundtrack. Why Christmas music? There are so many people searching. Looking for connection, for comfort, for hope. Our prayer is that those who may stumble upon LifeSongs and hear a familiar holiday tune would find the true “thrill of HOPE” in our only source, and in the reason we have to celebrate: Jesus. Please pray for them, invite them to the table, and that they stick around, even after Christmas, to continue hearing messages of good news and great joy on LifeSongs.
Christmas may be a rare season that has its own soundtrack, but there are so many songs of gratitude and thanks that might be perfect to incorporate around your Thanksgiving table! Here are a few of my favorites:
Happy Thanksgiving! My heart is full of gratitude for you. Now, pass those sweet potatoes!
Josh got to meet/chat with Patrick Mayberry on the LifeSongs Morning Show. This Tennessee native is an incredible and humble worship leader with some exceptional new music! Give the podcast a listen to be super encouraged… and wowed by Patrick’s ability to lie directly to Josh’s face. #maybeitsMayberry
An annual tradition as old as stuffing – Josh chats with the turkey experts from the Butterball Talkline! Are you already defrosting your big centerpiece? It might be a little too early for that actually. But if you want the official PANTS of Thanksgiving then you need to give this a listen!
Visit Butterball.com
Call 1-800-BUTTERBALL
Text 844-877-3456
To chat with a bonafide turkey expert!
Transcription
Josh: It’s the Life Songs Morning Show. Hey, I’m Josh and I’m very excited to have a professional that we all need to know and love. Michael Maddox, the Turkey Talk line expert from Butterball is with us this morning. Michael, welcome to Life Songs.
Michael Maddox: Good morning, Josh. Thank you for having me, and I’m, I’m very happy to be here and talking about Butterball Turkey.
What, what a wonderful.
Josh: Now down here in southeast Louisiana, Michael, when we prepare a Turkey, it is, it is 50 50 between smoking it and deep frying at a lot of Cajun deep fried turkeys. But are there any new Turkey trends this year that we should know about?
Michael Maddox: We see a lot of, you know, a lot of different techniques and things and you know, for us we say the open pan method is the recommended method, but.
My father likes to deep fry his as well, and we see cooking in the bag. So we do, we actually have Butterball University that we have our 50 experts that we do every year like that. And just kinda looking at new trends, but also looking at people who have those electric roasters and kind of looking at different ways just to try to accommodate everyone who was kind of cook the cookie different ways.
Josh: So we should not shove a whole frozen butterball Turkey into the air fryer and expect it to be ready in half an hour.
Michael Maddox: Correct? Yeah. That would be, that’s called not having butterball Turkey for lunch that day because it’s, yeah, not a, not a good idea.
Josh: Awesome. Michael. Um, what is the deal? I sound like Seinfeld there.
What’s the deal with Thanksgiving hosting pants? This is popping up all over the internet right now. Where did this idea come from and how do I get me some.
Michael Maddox: Yeah, great question. Yeah, this year we’re helping holiday hosts get a leg up, uh, by partnering with Hedley and Bennett to create Thanksgiving hosting pants.
And these are just fun pants and giving confidence to the seasoned veterans, but also to the new host, right, because they’re getting kind of nervous about hosting. And so, you know, we dress for success and confidence and those kind of things. And so if you visit thanksgiving hosting pants.com. And they’re gonna be available the first three Mondays of November while supplies last.
And you can get these wonderful hosting pants by Butterball and a Headley and Bennett, and they’re blue and yellow. Let our Butterball colors, and it was kind of fun. They have a place for a thermometer, a place to hold your towel, a place from other gadgets, even has a bottle of openers. Hydration’s important this time of year.
And then also a um, 1-800-BUTTERBALL little sticker on there, a emblem on there in case you need to sneak into the closet and give us a call and help you out.
Josh: I hope they have some stretch to them, right, because if I’m eating Turkey, I’m gonna correct. Yeah. All right. Michael. Social media presents a lot of creative ways to rere prepare Thanksgiving leftovers.
I’ve seen stuffing waffles, which looks cool, wraps and all kinds of stuff. Do you have a favorite way of eating leftover?
Michael Maddox: You know what’s kind of funny and it, it’s, it’s, it’s kind of a unique one is, is making a, like a Thanksgiving day sandwich, but you put everything on it, right? You have a nice baguette or a nice, uh, like a submarine bowl, uh, bread like that.
Josh: And we call it a Poe Boy down here.
Michael Maddox: Oh yeah. Po Yeah. I, I love New Orleans. I’ve been there quite a few times and, and myself, I brush it with some garlic oil, and then you put the cranberries, like the cranberry chutney on there. You put the stuffing on there, the Turkey on there. I’m a spicy person. I like a little bit of like jalapeno, uh, cheddar cheese or jack cheese on that, and it’s just wonderful way to have that sandwich and kinda all the best of all worlds and an easy hand ready bite.
Josh: Yeah, Michael has won me over to the leftover sandwich. That sounds like a phenomenal recipe. So Michael, what are the ways that the Life science family can get in touch with Butterball? If we need some help, if we need some tips, if we need some recipes, where do we go? Who do we call? What do we do?
Michael Maddox: Sure.
Great question. butterball.com would be their website and it has great recipes on there. It has some how to videos. It has a product locator, so in case you’re trying to get a certain one. If you’re trying to figure out how much you need per person or how big a Turkey to get, that’s on there as well. You can also do text and chat.
You can also call 1-800-BUTTERBALL and we are here available to help you from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM uh, central standard time. And on Thanksgiving we have extended hours because we start early in the morning and we go into the evening like that, trying to help, uh, help the host with their butterball turkeys.
And also we can help with side dishes and sauces and all those kind of things too, which is fun.
Josh: Yeah, can we just give a round of applause to the Butterball team members that literally take their Thanksgiving and give in an active service to care for all of us? Trying desperately to impress our in-laws like that is a ton of work, a lot of stressed out people, and we are grateful for all that you guys do at Butterball.
Michael Maddox: Well, thank you so much. ’cause it’s our 44th year of the Butterball Turkey talk line. And what’s fun is we have over 50 culinary experts, so chefs, teachers, food sciences, registered dieticians. So for us it’s, it’s a good, great group of people together. And we, we have a wonderful time because we’re passing the love on and having fun talking and texting and chatting with, uh, the hosts.
Josh: Well, just because the Thanksgiving meal is mostly beige doesn’t mean it can’t be packed full of flavor. Thank you so much, Michael for. Spending some time talking with us and um, we’ll have all the links and stuff up for butterball on life songs.com and I’ve gotta go order those pants now, those Thanksgiving hosting pants.
Michael Maddox: Thank you Joshua, my pleasure to be with you and your listeners today.
Vance Hughes is not only the Underwriting Director at LifeSongs, but a proud Veteran. Each year he hangs with Josh and they talk about service life, resources for our Veterans and offer our thanks.
To all the service men and women in the LifeSongs family: Thank you.
Hey guys, it’s Gabby:)
College was one of my favorite seasons, but I look back and realize how confused I was. I walked through college and graduated with very little clarity on where I would work when that season ended. I felt overcome with the pressure from others and myself to be successful and wondered why the Lord had blessed others with the clarity I so desperately wanted. All I knew was all I had ever known, and that was that I had a deep appreciation for connecting with people. For years, I had told people I felt called to ministry–but again these answers didn’t feel like they were creating a neon lighted sign towards a specific position or opportunity.
But God calls us to depend on Him, even when we aren’t getting the answers we would like at the pace we’d like them.
So, I started teaching. I taught for a year, got married and taught for another year. Teaching was fun …and exhausting. At times, it felt right but I was still wondering if that was where God wanted me long term. I went to Passion Conference, like I do every January where I received an infamous text from Libby, asking me if I was at all interested in a possible position at LifeSongs. I didn’t answer for days. The thought of being on the air made me physically sick. I had allowed the time waiting for where God called me to make me so insecure. But my husband and I prayed about it and I felt the Lord leading me to jump. Following Jesus with our obedience often feels like that —the biggest free fall you could imagine. But God is always with us, waiting to see if we will trust him enough to jump, and he catches his kids every time.
I could’ve let my insecurity, fear, comparison and anxiety completely rob me from where God was calling me. But I am so thankful the Lord gave me direction and grace for each day as Libby so kindly taught me what all the buttons on the board in the studio meant–THERE ARE SO MANY BUTTONS GUYS.
It’s time for my next free fall.
My husband and I were called to serve some students in a cute, small town in Alabama, which if you know me, you know that I am a city girl through and through. But if I learned anything from my season at LifeSongs, it is to know God and follow him. He will fill those blanks. He will equip us with everything we need to be obedient where he has called, but it’s all impossible unless we depend on him.
Thank you for letting me encourage you, serve you and love you during my time as a LifeSongs team member. This sweet season at LifeSongs was so fulfilling for me, because all I got to do was make much of Jesus and do my best to love his people well. What a blessing that I will always look back on with gratitude.
Much love and prayers to the ministry of LifeSongs and the city of New Orleans. God has big things in store, all we have to do is jump.
MercyMe’s guitarist Barry Graul hangs with Josh on the LifeSongs Morning Show to get pumped about the upcoming MEGA concert with MercyMe, TobyMac & Matthew West! Tickets are still available HERE. MercyMe has a new record, a new movie and like 4 tours they are juggling – so lots to chat about!
Barry Graul (MercyMe) | LifeSongs Morning Show (edited for clarity)Josh: Thank you so much for choosing Uplifting LifeSongs, and I’m thrilled to introduce Barry Graul to the LifeSongs family. Barry, you play guitar with MercyMe and we’re gonna see you very soon at the Smoothie King Center, September 27th.
Barry Graul: Nice. Looking forward to that.
Josh: How long have you been writing songs professionally in Christian music?
Barry Graul: Oh, maybe pushing about 30 years.
Josh: That’s an incredible run.
Barry Graul: Yeah, that’s pretty good.
Josh: When you write a guitar lick, do you immediately think Bart’s gonna turn this into a song about heaven again?
Barry Graul: I have thousands of guitar licks, I think saved and for one to be used is pretty, pretty awesome. So I don’t care what he uses it for.
We never pay the bills. It doesn’t matter.
Josh: All right, so this tour with Toby Mack and Matthew West, this is like the biggest Christian music concert of the Fall across the country. I think between the three of y’all, the different acts, you’ve provided most of the hits for the last three decades.
Barry Graul: We’ve actually done two tours previously in the past two years with Toby. And it’s a pretty good time. We don’t hardly do festivals anymore. We pretty much take the summers off, which is when most festivals happen. And so we don’t get to play music with our friends or people that we know and love.
And so to be able to put a tour together where we can all be of one mind, you know, and get out there and do what we do, in different ways, you know, it’s, uh, yeah, we’re looking forward to it. A lot.
Josh: You guys really are in a place of mentorship when it comes to, to CCM (Contemporary Christian Music) today because you’ve been a part of so many groups and been a part of so many other groups’ stories – like you played in Whitecross, which is awesome.
You played some with DC Talk, right? I saw PFR on your Wikipedia page. They were my first love in Christian music.
Barry Graul: You know, they’re coming out with a new record, right?
Josh: No way – for real?
Barry Graul: Yeah. Yes. They’ve been working on it at our studio.
Josh: I’m thrilled that they’re all alive.
Barry Graul: Yeah,
Josh: because this was a long time ago.
Barry Graul: I’ll be sure to tell Joel that.
Josh: My first interaction with Christian Radio… They were doing an interview on WAY-FM in Nashville. (Yeah.) This was back in the early nineties and they had just released Goldie’s Last Day, which I was obsessed with.
And I called them, I asked them about their dog. They thought I was a little girl ’cause my voice had not dropped yet. And yeah. So I’m thrilled to hear that they’re still good.
Barry Graul: Yeah, man. Yeah, it’s gonna be good.
Josh: I remember when they came out it was, it was like, this is the second coming of the Beatles.
Barry Graul: Okay. Right. Yeah. You’re gonna love it. You’re gonna love it.
Josh: We’re talking with Barry Graul of MercyMe right now, and Barry, I Can Only Imagine 2 comes out in theaters in February of next year.
Barry Graul: Yes. Yes.
Josh: So is this like also a biographical film or are we going into uncharted fantasy sci-fi territory?
Like is it mercy me in space? Is this actually the third Dune movie?
Barry Graul: Man if only that were true. Oh, I still want to use a lights saber.
Josh: How involved are you guys in the band with the film production and the movies?
Barry Graul: I mean, our likeness is being used. We have actors…
Josh: You don’t have someone shadowing you, learning how to really get into the mind of Barry?
Barry Graul: You know, I had to send out a couple videos of how I played a couple things. That’s about it. And it’s gonna be great. We actually saw the very latest cut about two weeks ago, and man, it was really good. Really good. And it’s, it’s got some really funny moments too. So there’s emotional on both sides, you know?
And so, yeah, I think it’s, I think it’s gonna resonate.
Josh: Let’s play a little game. I like to call: Why Not? And this is actually based on the new music video you guys just released for. Why not now? Why not me? (Oh my goodness.) Looked like you guys had a lot of fun filming that.
Barry Graul: I can’t believe we actually did it in one day.
That’s what I can’t believe.
Josh: Was that filmed on like one of y’all’s properties?
Barry Graul: That’s in our studio. On our studio property, yeah.
Josh: You can check out the video by the way, on lifesongs.com. So first let’s start with why not now? What have you been putting off in your life that you should probably take care of?
Barry Graul: Whew. Hmm. I’m sure it’s fixing something that my wife wants me to fix.
Josh: Yeah, same. My, my car desperately needs an alignment.
Barry Graul: Yeah. Yeah, that’s about it. I’m actually pretty organized guy, so yeah.
Josh: Nice. Are you a a spreadsheet guy?
Barry Graul: Oh, no, no, no, no. A list guy. Definitely a list guy. Yes. Yes.
Josh: Lot of lists. Yes. I think that’s probably my most used app on my phone is my My Note app.
Barry Graul: Oh yeah. It just has so many notes. I love my notes.
Josh: Next question. Why not me? What do you get picked for last? And you kind of resent that?
Barry Graul: Hmm. Basketball, although it’s not one of my favorite sports to play after I rolled my ankle.
Josh: I was gonna say a relay race for me. Like, you know, they have the person who’s the anchor in a race?
I am just like outright an anchor. So the the song, Why Not Now? Why Not Me? talks about believing what Jesus thinks about us. What would Jesus tell you this morning that you need to hear and have a hard time believing?
Barry Graul: Hmm. He would say, and I know this, but he would say that I am forgiven for everything because sometimes I don’t really believe it. (Mm-hmm.) Grace is a hard thing to really grab a hold of sometimes because sometimes there’s so many reminders and your memory and it’s Satan just, you know, trying to steal you away from relationship. Thank goodness for forgiveness and mercy.
Josh: That’s a really good answer. Extend an invitation to the city of New Orleans to join you in concert September 27th.
Barry Graul: We love New Orleans and that’s why we’re coming to play there. Come out and see Toby and Matthew West. It’s gonna be a great time and we’re gonna worship together. It’s gonna be great. So come on out!
Welcome, September! Are you glad to say farewell to August? This year, in particular, August felt long. Maybe it was the 20th anniversary of Katrina. Did those conversations dominate your world, too?
As we sit with this marker in time, I feel a mix of not wanting to dwell in the Katrina space we lived through, but also never wanting to forget or minimize its significance. Can you relate? It’s a weird place to be. A place I tend to look for hugs, humor and hope to lean on.
My reflections on that time lead me to not just relive the painful moments, but to look at what has come of them. To not sit in what was, but to see how God has used it since and look toward what could be. What WILL be? My prayer is that God will bring whole healing to our community. That He will help us to truly love our neighbors well, to come together and reflect His light to encourage others. That we can laugh together, cry together, eat together and continue to allow Him to write our stories, and the collective story of redemption and hope in New Orleans.
How about you? What’s your story, and what do you hope for in the chapters to come?
I’m so grateful that in every experience, in every moment big and small, we haven’t had to go through them alone. We are in this together, and in every season, we can lean on each other, care for one another, and be a reflection of Jesus to our community.
It’s because of your support for LifeSongs that we have been able to weather the storms of life together, and the reason we are still here, every day, proclaiming the goodness of God. Thank you for your generous commitment to this ministry, and to bringing Hope to our deep-rooted swampy lil’ corner of the world. You belong here.
Josh & Libby talk about the last 20 years in a post-Katrina New Orleans – share stories – dream about the future! Including excerpts from local pastors and LifeSongs listeners.
We look back at what GOD HAS DONE in the past two decades. What good came from tragedy? What changes did He make in you and your life that you can now look back and say “I see Jesus in the storm”?
Thank you for being part of the LifeSongs family! We’re so grateful we get to share God’s love together through hope & encouragement.
If God has used this ministry to have a positive impact in your life, used a song to encourage you when you needed it most, we want to hear about it! Everyone has a story to share, and when you share what God is doing in your life, you encourage others!
Share your story with us below the video:
Share Your Story Everyone has a story to share. How has God moved in your life? Has HE used LifeSongs to impact you and your family?
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- Story*Tell us about what God has done/is doing in your life or share how we can pray for you today.Has God used LifeSongs in your life? Is there a special song or particular artist that has impacted you in a big way? Interested in becoming a LifeSongs Volunteer? CLICK HERE!
Gabby spent some time talking with Matt Maher about his new song “Wait” – and the Spiritual lessons he’s been learning as he “walks the walk.” Enjoy the podcast or read the transcription below!
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Matt Maher (@mattmahermusic)
LifeSongs: Your favorite musicians, exclusive interviews, local artists all on the Life Songs podcast.
Gabby: Hey everybody. I’m Gabby at LifeSongs from the Afternoon Show. Get to sit here with Matt Maher. So excited for us to get to know him just a bit better. Matt, I’ve been listening to your song about waiting this new song that just came out so excited about that.
I feel like as believers waiting is a topic that is kind of uncomfortable.
Matt Maher: I would say I’m a husband and dad. I’ve been married 15 years this year, and I have three kids, and so a lot of ideas like this are sort of happening on the way is, I guess is the best way to say it, because when you’re a parent, you really don’t get much of a break.
Yeah.
Being a dad and being a songwriter. You know, a lot of it is just leaning into God saying, okay, listen, you gotta talk to me on the way here. But I’ve been in a season where like everyone, I think some of it’s like our relationship with these things called cell phones and smartphones and social media has become pretty invasive increasingly, and.
It gets hard because it ultimately, as good as it can be, it can be a really big distraction. It can distract us from praying. It can distract us from our relationships. It can distract us from whatever tasks we’re actually trying to do in the present moment in the real world. And so we had, we went to New York a year ago for a couple days to go see a musical and to just kind of be a family and see the city eat food.
You know, you can walk 20,000 steps in a day and go to a museum and like eat some really great food. So it, it’s, it was, it’s kind of a fun combination. And uh, we were walking to a musical and I remember I was just holding my daughter’s hand and. Just being in the moment and grateful for the moment and then looking up and seeing a billboard and there was this white billboard and it just said it can wait.
And it’s one of those things where I say songs for a lot of songwriters, particularly Christian music and worship music, but all songwriting is a form of catching revelation. You’re revealing something about you and what you’ve been through your life experiences, your circumstances, and it’s just a combination of the words and the music itself.
It’s become a way in which you’re speaking of something that truly is transcendent, like a deeper truth. Before the song, I just had the phrase of that, of it can wait, it sort of became more of a personal prayer. The book of Isaiah chapter 40, and it says, those who wait upon the Lord, he’ll renew their strength.
They’ll run, not grow weary, walk in, not grow faint. They’ll rise up on wings like eagles, which is kind of what became the bridge of the song. And then the, the verses of it really just started being more of a reflection on, I think what a lot of are, a lot of things that people are struggling with right now.
Fear, anxiety, our imaginations being hijacked, creating false narratives about ourself and the world around us. And I just think that the gospel and the scriptures. I have so much to say that like those experiences are part of the human experience. People have been experiencing these things for millennia.
Mm-hmm. And that’s why God and his goodness gave us his word, so that we can be reminded of that and also be encouraged. To have access to, you know, that throne of grace as Paul says in scripture that we can run to.
Gabby: Thank you so much for sharing. Me and my husband have been in a little bit of a, a hard season ministry wise. Hmm. And my coworkers, ’cause we’re, my husband’s a pastor here in the area and my, uh, coworkers sent me that song and they were like, you really need to like, listen, not just listen, but like you need to hear this.
Matt Maher: Wow.
Gabby: And it was really encouraging. And so I just wanna Thank you. I always appreciate when artists, ’cause I just feel like there’s something really special about music and about worship. Softens the heart and it really just gives us that space away from all those interruptions that you just spoke about.
So I just wanna say genuinely thank you so much for the authenticity that you show in your songwriting and the obedience.
Matt Maher: You are so welcome. Thank you so much.
Gabby: And you did talk a little bit about like the interruptions and the struggle and the battling with prioritizing. And I assume that’s very hard when you’re on the road, when you’re songwriting, when you also have a family.
There’s so many things. My husband and I were just talking at church with our congregation about just how hard it is in culture to prioritize and to take space away from your phone that’s constantly there, you know, battling for your attention. Can you give us some insight on what it looks to, uh, be intentional with rest in calling that you have?
Matt Maher: Yeah, that’s great. In my life, I’m realizing there are non-negotiables. And spending time with the Lord every morning just reading scripture and giving a bit of space, even if it’s five, 10 minutes in the morning. Yeah, just to start is something that anybody can consistently do. And inviting God into the details of your day is very, very important.
I think as you grow in your life and as the circumstances of your life change, your discernment has to change. So like I’m a songwriter right now and I actually haven’t had a ton of time to work on songs. I’ve been mostly with my family, spending time with my kids. But what I’ve been learning to do is to say, you know what, God, you’re the source of inspiration.
And you know that, you know, like Paul was a tent maker. So I always say like, my songs are my tenths in a way.
Gabby: I love that.
Matt Maher: Uh, and, you know, traveling and playing music is, you know, it’s the way, it’s the way that I’m providing for my family, but it’s like, I also know that you would never want me to lay down my family.
On any altar in the name of productivity or in the name of success or in the name of anything else. So I’m, I’m just learning to kind of surrender and trust. Think what you know, hopefully time in life gives you a bit of wisdom enough to look back and realize that the moments in your life when you were most productive, you worried the least about the way in which you’re able to provide for your family are actually the times when you were focused on that.
The least, and you were more focused on being present, more focused on being with your family, more focused on being available to God, and then operating from a mindset of abundance. And not scarcity. I think it’s the, the sense of being in right relationship with God, being in right relationship with those you’re most closest to attending to the responsibilities that, that, you know, that God actually wants you to put first.
Mm-hmm. Um, and then like, as you grow in life, you just learn, you have to invest your time differently. You know, I’m, I’m 50, we drove, uh, 11 hours from Buffalo where my in-laws live. Back to Nashville, and I got back last night at like, my goodness, seven 30. And if this was 10 years ago, I would’ve ate dinner with my family.
I would’ve hung out with my wife for a little bit, and then I would’ve came back here to my studio and worked till probably one in the morning. And now what I’m learning at this season of life is like, actually no, I need a better night’s rest and I’m gonna set my alarm and get up earlier. I’ve sort of transitioned from being a night, a night owl.
To like, hopefully a morning songbird.
Gabby: Love that.
Matt Maher: Yeah. That like,
Gabby: awesome.
Matt Maher: It just kind of happens in life. So like, I would say operating from a, from a place of rest I think is, it starts in here and it starts in here. And then I think the physical aspects of like orienting your schedule in a way. Mm-hmm. Um, yeah.
I mean I look at Sundays as the day of the week that I’m journeying towards. And the start of my week that I’m moving from, and I take that real seriously. So I think it’s really important to everyone. You gotta have one day, and if you’re in full-time ministry, it obviously is not gonna be Sunday.
Gabby: Nope.
Matt Maher: But you gotta find a day where you can really, truly, you’re not what you do. Mm-hmm. That’s not who you are. And that’s really, really, really important. I, there’s a book I’ve been reading called From Strength to Strength. Okay. By a guy named Dr. Arthur Brooks, and he is a professor at Harvard University who is a devout Christian.
He’s a fellow Catholic. He’s very vocal about his faith. Very open,
Gabby: super cool. Yeah,
Matt Maher: and he’s, I went to a conference last year on human happiness. He said a lot of people graduate from college and they think it’s like love things, use people, worship yourself. And he would say that’s the problem is it’s a bad orientation of things that we’re made to do.
So you should use things, you should love people, and you should worship God.
Gabby: Mm. I love that distinction. Yeah. It’s
Matt Maher: a very simple formula to happiness. Mm-hmm. Stuff doesn’t make you happy.
Gabby: Yeah, that’s true.
Matt Maher: Well, so more of it isn’t gonna make you happier. I find that I’m happiest in my life when things are rightly ordered, and a lot of that I remember in ministry is kind of having to delegate, but then having to just set things aside and really trust in God mm-hmm.
That he’s gonna provide in these areas where I need, I need provision.
Gabby: Thank you so much for sharing. I feel like when we choose to sacrifice those things, that should be lower on our priority list. The Lord is so good to bless us. Yes. Because upon God, I trust you so much. Mm-hmm. That I’m going to rightly order my life to honor you. And I feel like he operates more than out of abundance in our life.
And we reap such a reward that is more than we could have ever earned by. Operating in this workaholic mindset, this over productivity, like kind of that our culture’s kind of racing towards the next thing. How in your life, since you’ve gotten your life rightly ordered, and you’re really striving to honor the Lord, have you seen the Lord just really, have you just witnessed his work and your life and his reward in your life because you’ve chosen to prioritize this in a different way?
Matt Maher: Yeah. I mean, I think when Paul says things, you know, I urge you to offer up your bodies as a living sacrifice to God, and he talks about your mind being renewed.
Gabby: Mm-hmm.
Matt Maher: That it’s not just like metaphysical mumbo jumbo.
Gabby: Right?
Matt Maher: Like we actually think that grace does have a physiological aspect to. Improving our emotional and mental wellbeing.
It’s a bit of a mystery and we don’t fully understand it, but as Christians, we’re not just a bunch of people who sort of believe that there’s this world of science and that exists over there. And then there’s this world of faith that exists over there. Like it’s much more
Gabby: intertwined.
Matt Maher: The, the lines are much more intertwined and so, and so I think there’s just a basic thing of like as human beings, like when we live an ordered life.
Yeah. I mean, I would say this song, for me, weight is a song. It’s an example of like, God showing up and providing in a season where I even in the midst of struggling was like, I’m gonna make first things first.
Gabby: Yeah.
Matt Maher: And, um, because I hadn’t written a song in a while and, uh, and I’ve been trying, and I would say that when I am making these like little decisions.
I can see the fruits of it in the relationships that I have primarily with my family. I’m more patient with my kids and I’m, it’s not perfect. It’s not, doesn’t mean like my kids still don’t do things that like irritate me. It’s just that I have more margin, it feels like within myself. I have more capacity to patiently show grace in my life.
Towards those and others around me, I find myself less inwardly focused, which as an artist is something that, it’s kind of comes second. It’s kind of with, comes with the gift in a way, because that’s where the music comes from, is you have to kind of, like, Jesus kind of leads you into your heart. He takes you by the hand and leads you in and shows you stuff that, um, that you need to sing about or you need to, you know, sing your way out of.
And, um. Yeah, I mean, I just think that overall I’ve become a more patient person. I become a happier person, feel like I’m operating in the gifts of the spirit and exhibiting the fruits of the spirit. These aren’t just sort of like intangibles. These are very tangible things that our communities and the people that we live and work in see around us.
You know? And I think some of it’s hard because I think part of the problem is that we struggle with, if I see someone who looks like they’re having a hard time, I don’t know how to talk to them about it. Of like, how you doing?
Gabby: Yeah.
Matt Maher: And um, because, and I don’t know if it’s because church culture for a while was so maybe more sort of like morally confrontational versus the idea now that I think people are becoming more and more comfortable with sharing the fact that they’re not thriving,
Gabby: which I love the authentic Yes.
The realness. That’s
Matt Maher: real and that’s authentic.
Gabby: Yes. And,
Matt Maher: and it doesn’t mean that. That like God’s not part of your life, right? It just means that, okay, there’s a couple, maybe there’s a couple things here that are just out of alignment or out of order and we just need to make a few. Yeah.
Gabby: You know,
Matt Maher: God needs to make a few small adjustments.
Gabby: Mm-hmm.
Matt Maher: But it can have a pretty, pretty big effect.
Gabby: You’ve talked a lot about just family and how important that this is, these rhythms that you have with your family. Putting the Lord first. What role would you say as we’re here at, this is a Christian radio station, what role would you say that worship, having a culture of worship in your home plays?
Matt Maher: I travel and I literally talk and sing about Jesus.
Gabby: Yeah.
Matt Maher: And so kids watching you do that publicly, it’s not the same as around the dinner table? Mm-hmm. Or it’s not the same as when they can’t sleep, and then it’s the middle of the night and you’re. It’s kind of when, that’s what I’m realizing is that’s when they want to see it the most is in all these other areas.
And it’s like if I want my kids to have a relationship with God, God made me to be a model for them. If I want my kids to worship Jesus, I need to model what that looks like. I can’t expect them to just sort of have this incredible relationship with God if I don’t, if I’m not modeling it or I’m not talking about my own.
Mm-hmm. Or demonstrating that. Prayer is a very, very crucial part. You know, praying is like breathing and it’s something that we kind of like all can lose sight of. The importance of praying with my kids, praying over my kids. Music’s obviously a huge thing in our family, so we’re always singing songs and kids now are more and more are writing songs.
And so yeah, it’s a beautiful thing and the ability to sing that together and pray that together. It is very, very special. I’m trying to be home almost every Sunday now because I want my kids. To grow up seeing us worshiping God together, that it’s like, once again, if, if I’m trying to impress upon them, this is the most important yes.
That you could ever make with your life is a daily yes to Jesus, then I want to be around to demonstrate what that yes looks like, but also that we can say yes together as a family that we’re gonna make a decision. You know, every family is like a domestic church. It’s a small church, and so as a family together to say.
You know, loving God and loving neighbor is our North star and you know, this is what we’re doing as a family, you know, and not just one day a week, but all the time.
Gabby: So encouraging. Matt, thank you so much. I know that it’s so important to have conversations like this. The world can often be so discouraging.
And so I feel like just seeing families that are trying and ’cause we’re never gonna be perfect, but trying in this broken world, yes, for the effort of just like leaning on the Lord and his strength and those waiting periods and, uh, just making, making it a habit of worship and, uh, including that culture of just having a Sabbath.
I, I’m so encouraged by all of your just answers in this conversation. Thank you so much for taking the time and we really appreciate you, your music. Your ministry and just you sharing your gifts.
Matt Maher: Thank you so much.
LifeSongs: Running Audubon Park or Walking the Lafreniere Track. You belong here. Uplifting LifeSsongs.
I’m not good with transitions. Neither is my son, which has been on full display this summer as we switch gears between travel and camp and out of town visitors and playdates and more.
Summer can be like that. It’s just long enough to enjoy a break, but not long enough to really settle into any sort of rhythm or routine. It’s great, it’s fun, it can be jam-packed and exhausting, and just when you think you’re getting the hang of it, it’s time to shift back to the routine of school and life and all the things.
My family’s summer season has been filled with family and friends, visits that were long overdue and also heartbreak and loss. Lots of laughter and plenty of tears. Somedays, we hold both simultaneously. The time together is so sweet and compacted, and it can then amplify the distance when it’s time to part.
I’m constantly learning that life-long lesson from Ecclesiastes 3. God designed life to have a cyclical nature. We go through different phases, experience different seasons, and each one has its own purpose and place. This isn’t a random thing! It’s part of God’s plan for nature, our world, and for us, too. And as hard as it is for me to do so, I know I can embrace each moment, the joyful ones, the ones where we weep, the ones that feel uncertain, because He is unchanging. There is hope and purpose when we trust in Him.
So, as the shift happens from sunscreen to composition books, from sno-balls to PSLs, from hellos to goodbyes, let’s accept and welcome each season, knowing that each one has purpose, and we can find our peace through them all in Jesus.
Josh had the privilege of spending some time on the phone with Chris Llewellyn of Rend Collective. The conversation goes all over the place – from the shores of Northern Ireland to Christmas tree traditions and the need for good therapy. You can listen to the entire podcast here – or read the transcript below.
Josh: Hey, good morning. It’s Josh on the LifeSongs Morning Show, and I’m thrilled to welcome Chris Llewellyn of Rend Collective to the show. Chris, thank you so much for, for calling in.
Chris Llewellyn: Oh, I appreciate you having me. Thank you.
Josh: I’m so in love with the album Folk and the new song Fight of My Life, and we’re gonna get to that in just a minute.
But first, a little history about Rend Collective. You guys started out as a youth group band,
Chris Llewellyn: That’s exactly right. Yeah. Um, it’s essentially, it’s a Bible study that’s got wildly outta control at this point. Yeah, we didn’t actually make music together at all for about the first five years. We were kind of late teens trying to do some things, trying to work out faith and life and God and everything else.
And so we just opened up the Bible together and, and try to work out how to, how to apply that to our own lives and then bring it to everybody who was in our little coastal town of banger. Uh, I guess it was a very local scale back then. We, we went to the pubs and the clubs and. We’d stand outside and we would, we’d preach the gospel as best we understood it, and it was a, a really, really sweet time. After a while of doing that kind of ministry, you know, people were starting to move away and it didn’t make sense for us really to start meeting together anymore. So we thought before we would kind of disband that we would use our gifts and, and try to make a little memento of this time and that memento was really our, our first album that turned out to be. Mm-hmm. We thought it was just for sharing with our own community. Um, my mom still has probably 200 copies of that ep, yet it found its way into the hands of Martin Smith who passed it on to Chris Tomlin, who made the mistake of believing we were a real band and invited us on.
Josh: That’s awesome.
Chris Llewellyn: Invited us on. Yeah. One of his biggest tours up to that point, the And If Our God, is For Us Tour. The craziest story: It’s a Bible study who got invited onto tour with Chris Tomlin, who were like. Yeah, we can be a band and here we are.
Josh: Well, as, as someone who lives like 6,000 miles away from Bangor, Ireland, I am super glad that there was this comedy of errors that that led to, I guess the Rend collective experiment was a success.
Chris Llewellyn: I’m glad for that review. Uh, not everyone reviews it that way.
Josh: When I was a teenager, I was also in a youth praise and worship band. This is back in the nineties, and it’s really wild how 30 years can fly, but. I, I’ve noticed a lot of my friends from back in that day, they’re no longer really walking their faith out, and that breaks my heart.
Have you guys seen that or have you seen just like a, a tremendous growth.
Chris Llewellyn: Hmm. That’s interesting. It’s probably about 50/50 is the truth. And the people who, the people who are still walking out their faith are, are walking it out in increased strength. And I think the other 50% kind of did fizzle away and, uh, and do their own thing.
And I’m always thinking about that, that parable of the sewer. Mm-hmm. You know, we, we spread the gospel, we throw out that seed, but ultimately it’s the Holy Spirit that makes it take hold or take root. It’s interesting and sad to, to see the ways that it gets snatched up or, or ignored or, or choked out.
But also it’s really inspiring to see whenever a, a big sequoia grows up out of the ground. Mm-hmm. You know, big, it’s a special thing. Life of faith isn’t as easy as it seems.
Josh: No, no. It’s pretty brutal sometimes.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah. Jesus asks us to carry our cross. Um, I think that that means that at times it can feel really heavy.
He also says that his burden is easy in his yolk is light, and I think that both of those things are weirdly true if you’re willing to enter into that little bit of complexity of understanding that grace is light, but life is heavy.
Josh: The new album Folk is great, by the way, Chris, it feels kind of a, like a return to form to like the, my Lighthouse era a little bit.
Chris Llewellyn: That’s kind for us. It felt like putting on, you know, you know that sweater that you keep at home and uh, it’s the one that you wear when. I don’t know when the kids are in bed and it’s time to watch your own show.
Josh: Yeah.
Chris Llewellyn: It’s like that’s what it feels like to put on folk music for me. We can wear other clothes, don’t mind dressing up, but uh, the old sweater was calling to us again.
Josh: So speaking of wearing other clothes, by the way, like, and I mean this in the most positive way possible, the last album before this one, the one with Hallelujah Anyway on it, that album. Yeah. It felt to me in the best way imaginable like a dive bar band, like you guys had like done a circuit of saloons around Nashville and just like, kind of adopted a little bit of that edge sound to it.
And I loved it. I thought it was great.
Chris Llewellyn: That’s really kind. Yeah. I, I think, I think that was true. It’s a little bit more, that’s literally our experience. I’m glad it, I’m glad it came through. We were spending more time because of the pandemic we had. We had spent so much more time in Nashville.
Josh: Mm-hmm.
Chris Llewellyn: ’cause we had to make a call basically of, are we gonna be Ireland side or Nashville side? And we, we were in Nashville, so I think finally a little bit of the Tennessee did, did creep in. A little bit of Broadway is in there. So that’s gotta be sense.
Josh: So hard to be so far away from your people in the midst of that pandemic.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah, it really, it really was. I mean, I, I don’t think anybody really gives 2020, uh, a five star review, but Yeah. Right. Uh, I’m, uh, I’m grateful for where it’s led us and, you know, we were just so fortunate the way that that spun out. It didn’t really, I’m so sad for the people that it, that it impacted really closely, but that, that wasn’t our story.
It. It didn’t really come that close to me and my family and I, I suppose I’m, I’m grateful for that at the same time as I, I’m heavy for the people that it costs a lot.
Josh: Yeah. I think some of us definitely fight off some of that survivor’s guilt.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah. That, that’s exactly the right terminology.
Josh: We’re talking about Chris from Rend Collective this morning.
Fight of my Life. When you guys decided to publish this song, I imagine you did not take into account how many times you were gonna have to share your story of struggle when talking about the single, because that’s gotta be so emotionally exhausting.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah. Um, this is a song I thought was always gonna be for myself.
There’s always a certain portion of songs that I have that I write for me, and that’s okay. They, they just live and, and they’re for me. They’re, they’re for me to work through a, a moment in my life. And then they never see the light of day. ’cause I don’t think they’re gonna connect with anyone else. And that, that was the bucket I had fighting my life in.
It was kind of, it was a bit of a diary overshare, and I, I thought it would come across as an, as an overshare. And I thought that it would come across as maybe like, it would make people feel hopeless, not hopeful. Um, and yet I, I played it for my wife and some of my close friends and they just say, you know, honestly, that this is one of the most resonant songs that you’ve ever written.
It feels like you’re. Like you’re talking about an actual human experience and not just talking about theology. Yeah. Um, and it was at that point that my ears started to perk up and I was like, I wonder if I take the risk of. Of talking about this journey, if, if it’ll bring people on board and it only be, give people a little bit of language to talk about their own struggles and it, it’s been amazing to see the response just, it is just, it’s beautiful when people say drop into our dm’s and had a few people say that, that this has been the nudge that they needed to go and actually seek therapy.
And I always feel like God and therapy is a nearly unbeatable combo in the face of depression. So that’s a good word. That means a lot to me, you know?
Josh: I’m so grateful that, that your story told through this song, Fight of My Life is able to give people that vocabulary, to give people that reminder that they’re not going through this alone.
That this is a, actually a very common experience.
Chris Llewellyn: Well, that’s right. And it’s not even a hopeless experience. I think that’s what I love, that the song kind of communicates and even communicates it just by the, the style of the song is almost at odds with the content. It’s like the sweet song that you’ve ever heard about depression.
Josh: You’ve got this manic ness in the, the lyrics and this, this edge to it. But the song is all joyful and happy and folky.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah, exactly. And I really like that. I think that reflects something about what it is to walk through depression as a person of faith. Mm-hmm. Uh, as a person of faith, a person who believes that Jesus walks through it with you.
There, there is a sense in which even in those really, really dark moments, there’s still joy present with you. It’s a fruit of the Spirit and the Spirit’s with us and those brokenhearted moments. So. You know, we talk a lot about this piece that passes understanding. You know, that’s a scripture verse, not, not of me, quote.
Uh, but I also think there’s a joy that passes understanding that comes with us whenever we, we, we walk with Jesus. You know, it’s just the age we’re living in honestly, that, that 95% of people are, are carrying hard things.
Josh: And maybe it’s middle aged too, man.
Chris Llewellyn: Could be. I mean, middle, it’s not great.
Josh: No, it’s really not like it’s really, really hard.
But you know what that, I think in those moments, and you talk about this in the song, like the hope we have in Jesus of when everything is made right. It’s, it’s worth holding onto that hope, and this will have been worth it. This valley will have been worth it because there is such joy that we’re gonna have, and it’s gonna be no more tears someday.
And that’s not that far away anymore.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah. I’m, I’m always, I’m always hardened by the fact that in the end it’s all gonna wind up with a wedding feast, I, I can cope with that.
Josh: Yeah. BT Dubs, this is just an aside. Um, I didn’t realize you were from Banger Ireland. I need you guys Oh yeah. To do a cover album and call it Bangers for Banger and Oh, that’s perfect actually.
Honestly, I just, all Irish songs like, you know, limit it to just a couple U2 songs, but like
Chris Llewellyn: it would be great. Goodness mate, you’ve got my head spinning. ’cause I mean, bangers from Banger contains the entire catalog of Van Morrison. The entire catalog is Snow Patrol. A decent amount of U2 too.
Josh: I’m already saving up to spend all the money on the vinyl when you make it.
Chris Llewellyn: yeah. All right. Uh, obviously I can’t give you any credit because, you know, I, I have to come up with all the ideas, but Yeah,
Josh: yeah, yeah.
Chris Llewellyn: Take it,
Josh: take it,
Chris Llewellyn: take it as you need it. You’ll, you’ll see it and you’ll, you’ll know what you did.
Josh: I do. And I’ll be very proud. I will. And I’ll tell everyone and they’ll be like, “sure, Josh, whatever.”
Um, now here in New Orleans, Chris, we are celebrating full on Christmas in July on Life songs. And I have to tell you that the simple fact that you included Billy Mac’s Christmas Is All Around on one of your Christmas projects, has brought me and my wife so much joy, like you can’t even know. And I really hope someone has played it for Bill Nighy.
Chris Llewellyn: I hope so too. You know, um, I, I, I think for us that that moment in that, in that movie is just, it’s iconic Yes. For so many reasons, but, uh. It’s hard to imagine Christmas without it. So, uh, it’s just, it’s a little reference to what actually goes on in our families and how we actually celebrate Christmas.
You know,
Josh: it, it literally, it is an instant smile for my family. Like, it’s so good. It’s so ridiculous. I mean, the song itself, it’s terrible itself and the way
Chris Llewellyn: it’s rewritten is so poor. It, it just, it makes it perfect.
Josh: But your cover of it. Makes it an actual song. Like in the movie it’s garbage, but you guys make it such a joyful, wonderful Christmas song.
Chris Llewellyn: Thank you. I think, I think that’s, uh. Joy. Yes. I, I totally agree. I, I still, uh, as a songwriter, I look at it and go, that is a nightmare. That’s a nightmare. The
Josh: if, if you ever like, this is just like one of those secret things. It’s like when third day would throw in a kid’s choir to like get it on the radio.
If you start spelling words in a song, it’s gonna be an instant hit. Like you spell Christmas. We’re in,
Chris Llewellyn: we’re good. Do you know? Yeah, I, because kids love it. Yeah. In particular, they’re like, especially if it’s a word they can spell, it’s like you’ve got an instant kids Classic. Yeah.
Josh: You guys at this point have had many Irish Christmases and probably some American ones too.
What are the big differences and the best of each?
Chris Llewellyn: Oh my goodness. Yeah, I have had a few, so I’ll say American Christmas has met my expectations of being exactly like Home Alone house energy. Yeah. Yeah. Like we always have all the relatives and it’s absolute chaos and pizza boxes everywhere. And, and there’s something that, that chaos is special.
Uh, I, I really love it. I, I love, um. In America, you tie your Christmas tree to the top of your your car. That’s not something you’re allowed to do at home. So that always feels like a really nice little throwback to like watching National Lampoon’s Christmas and watch them to do that.
Josh: So you don’t wanna go out and dig your own tree up.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah. Maybe not have the full experience that he had, but the part with the trees. Okay. And, and then I think what, what’s special about Northern Ireland Christmas is just the intimacy. I think particularly about like candlelight midnight services on Christmas Eve, uh, in these little Parish churches. And then, you know, pubs that stay open a little bit late on that, on that Christmas Eve, they accommodate it and there’s just something so cozy and like Shire energy.
Yeah.
Josh: That happens. Yeah. There’s such dramatically different, almost opposing forces, and yet both of them are a hundred percent Christmas.
Chris Llewellyn: Agreed. Yeah. Uh, yeah. I’m glad I got to experience ’em both justly,
Josh: or maybe sometime soon you’ll get to go experience like an Australian Christmas or a Fiji Christmas or a Hawaiian Christmas and just get away for a little while.
Chris Llewellyn: Yeah, I think I need to do that for sure. Um, yeah, we actually, we’re working on a Christmas album right now, which in the heat of July in Tennessee. It takes a little bit of imagination, but, um, yeah, we’re, we’re, we’re actually in film Christmas mode right now.
Josh: Chris, thank you so much for, for talking, for sharing your heart, for the music that you guys are bringing to the table.
It’s always a joy and we love you here in New Orleans. Anytime you guys want to come, even not just to play a concert, if you just want to go out to dinner, we’ll take you out. Okay.
Chris Llewellyn: Alright, I’ll, I’ll take you up on that dinner in New Orleans. Yeah, come on. We do it right? Yeah, you do.
Living in New Orleans , you know food is our love language! We practically focus every gathering, celebration or milestone around what we are eating . I even have a few friends that have specific foods they want served at their funerals!!
I love food. I mean, what’s not to love? There’s the taste, the satisfaction, the variety, the smell (most of the time), and of course, the delight of something sweet and the sensation of something salty. (Blend the two, and I can hardly resist.) Then there’s breakfast food: eggs, bacon, pancakes, coffee. You know it must be a good thing if restaurants serve it all day long. But I don’t think there is anything more delectable than freshly baked bread, do you? Pull a warm roll apart with your fingers, pop in a bite, and it will practically melt in your mouth.
Oftentimes, people often refer to the aroma of fresh-baked bread as “heavenly.” Jesus calls Himself the bread of life in John 6:35, after all. Truly, there is something heavenly about bread. In John 6, after Jesus fed the five thousand with only a boy’s small lunch, the crowd begged to see him do it again. They wanted more bread, and I can’t say I blame them. I have a feeling it tasted delicious. Not to mention, the Jews knew the story of their ancestors living on manna in the wilderness, so if Jesus could provide bread in the same way, then they’d have reason to believe His crazy claims.
But Jesus doesn’t give in to their baiting. He takes the opportunity to point them to something better, and in doing so, He makes a connection between the manna God gave Israel and Himself. Jesus said to the crowd in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread he will live forever. The bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”
The Bible isn’t just a book. It’s nourishment for the starving soul. The Psalmist testifies in Psalm 119, “If your instruction had not been my delight, I would have died in my affliction” (Psalm 119:92). Then he goes on, “How sweet your word is to my taste—sweeter than honey in my mouth” (Psalm 119:103). Coincidently, do you know what else tasted like honey? Manna. Exodus 16:31 tells us it “tasted like wafers made with honey.”
I love that God didn’t give Israel bland food but gave them something sweet to eat. Likewise, Christ’s words are not bland. They are the sweetest, most delectable feast, especially for the anxious, lost, or hurting soul. There is nothing better for us to consume than the living, breathing Word of God. It is a gift from the Lord intended for nourishment, enrichment, joy, and satisfaction while we wait for the return of Christ.
My friend, just as we will suffer from malnutrition if we do not eat nutritious food, so can our souls suffer from malnutrition if we do not consume the Word of God. Trying to live your life without a regular infusion of Jesus is like trying to live your life without food.
There is a feast awaiting you in the delightful words of Scripture. I am soo looking forward to my next round of comfort food as I open my bible along with a side of fresh baked bread!
Libby got to hang with some future leaders – some inspiring young women – some GIRL SCOUTS!
These girls want to invite you to Cookies for a Cause, this Saturday (June 21) from 10 AM – 6 PM at the Cox Store in Metairie (4852 Veterans Memorial Blvd).
For each box/case of cookies sold, another will be donated to Second Harvest. It’s also our last chance to stock up on cookies to use as Hurricane snacks later in the season… just saying.
I believe that both the best and worst decisions made during my life were done with great influence from the community around me. This is why it’s vitally important to be careful and intentional about the people we invite into our lives and the influence in which we receive from them.
Influence is a powerful thing and the people of our city are being influenced by an overwhelming amount of things that are heaping more lies– hopelessness – division – death –and confusion across our city. People are seeking hope wherever advertised. Anything to get hope for the next moment. I think of the words in Scripture, that we should not find ourselves like the world, but we are told to live commissioned in the world–representing the love of Christ, inviting others to find the hope that they can not find anywhere else.
I don’t know about you but I have a burden for our city. When I really sit down and think about those that are lost and broken just within blocks of where I live, it makes me really sad. I want us all to ask the Lord for sensitivity from the Holy Spirit for our city and a driven heart to do what must be done to cover every heart and street in our community with the hope and love of Jesus. Just thinking of the transformative power of Jesus changing New Orleans through the Gospel gets me so PUMPED.
One problem–this will cost all of us. If we live fully surrendered to Gospel efforts it will absolutely cost us our comfort. The comfort of living for ourselves, thinking thoughts, spending time and money that help cushion our way of living so that we can put the things of God first.
I think about the paralytic in the Gospels. I imagine the friends could have been using their time and energy to do anything else, but they were racking their brains trying to figure out how to get their sick friend to Jesus to the point of lowering him through a roof so he could meet the everlasting source of healing and hope.
That’s what we asked the listeners of LifeSongs to do with the also very sick city of New Orleans these last couple of days during Friendraiser – inconvenience yourself so that others may see that they have a God that knows them AND Y’ALL DELIVERED. Because of the friends that chose to invest their money in the provision and hope of others–over ONE THOUSAND people lacking basic needs like food will have meals provided for them for A MONTH. How awesome is that—That’s the miracle working power of God moving through each of you.
Thank you for your love for Jesus, South East Louisiana, and allowing that love to move you to GIVE.
Summer is here! We hope this season brings you moments of rest, joy, and new experiences. As things slow down a bit, we’re excited to try something new at LifeSongs—our first-ever Summer Friendraiser!
Mark your calendars: Wednesday, June 11th – Friday, June 13th. During these three days, we’re inviting 100 friends to give $100 each to help raise $10,000 for the ministry of LifeSongs. Every dollar goes towards sharing God’s love through uplifting music, encouragement, and hope across Southeast Louisiana.
We know this season hasn’t been easy financially. Families, churches, businesses, and nonprofits alike are navigating tighter budgets—and LifeSongs is no exception. That’s why this summer, your generosity will go even further.
During LifeSongs Summer Friendraiser, your gift will also help support our friends at Giving Hope NOLA—a nonprofit that serves communities locally and around the world with food, clothing, shelter, and spiritual encouragement.
When you give to LifeSongs during our Summer Friendraiser, you’re doing 2 incredible things:
1. You’re investing in LifeSongs, keeping the message of God’s love flowing through this ministry.
2. You’re feeding 10 people for an entire month through Giving Hope NOLA.
Together we’re feeding the helpless with Giving Hope NOLA and feeding the hopeless through LifeSongs!
Thank you for prayerfully considering a Summer Friendraiser gift of $100—or whatever amount God places on your heart. We’re grateful for you.
Are you a thrill-seeker? The type of person who loves the extreme? Or are you more of a play-it-safe kind of person? There’s probably a spectrum between those two, and maybe we all fall a bit more in the middle, but I know I definitely lean more toward the familiar and comfortable range.
Climbing a mountain, riding the most extreme roller coaster, eating the spiciest food on the Scoville Scale – those don’t really draw me in. Even simply trying something new can trigger a sense of anxiety deep inside. But what about the times we feel that nudge to do something “scary?” The times we feel like we might be called to move into some sort of transition, despite the nerves, the concern, the uncertainty?
We recently traveled to visit family across the country, and my 8-year-old had plenty of opportunities to try new things. He ran head first into the waves of the Pacific Ocean. He worked up his courage to ride a log flume. He took a hike through the Redwoods. He met new people and tried new foods. And while these things may seem small, I could feel God working on my own heart as I watched Gus “be brave.”
When we seek a sense of calm or peace in our circumstances or in the controlled environment we’ve created for ourselves, it may feel like the more comfortable option. But the truth is, we’re not really the ones in control.
I’m still nervous about the idea of change, especially when it’s on a bigger scale than a log flume, but I know that obedience to what God’s calling us to leads to far more true and lasting peace than trying on our own. Imagine how terrifying it must have been for Peter, Andrew, James and John to fully leave their careers as fishermen and follow Jesus! It required risk, sacrifice and trust.
The unknown can be scary no matter what. Wisdom and worry can be difficult to distinguish for those of us who tend to make decisions based on worst case scenarios. But if God is calling you to it, He will be in it! He is working for our good. We simply have to trust Him.
Is He calling you to take a (big or small) leap of faith? Because of Jesus, we can leap without fear because every step He tells us to make will turn out for our good.
I love Summertime. It’s not my favorite season – that’s Fall – but the relaxed attitude, the delicious watermelon and the sunshine are all calling my name! That also means I need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the beginning of any plans we make in order to put on sunscreen.
I’m very fair skinned – but even if you soak up the sun and spit out a rich tan – you need sunscreen. I’m not a doctor, but I have a long list of them in my MyChart App – including a dermatologist (they don’t like it when you call them “skin doctors”). My dermatologist has hounded me to up the Sun Protection Factor as much as possible and so I’m passing along this plea as a public service announcement.
God painted you – wrote on your very DNA – and when we don’t care for our bodies as best as we can, it’s like we’re smudging His GOOD work. You might not feel like a masterpiece, but you are. Fearfully and wonderfully made is how the Bible describes you (Psalm 139)!
Stay hydrated – wear sunscreen (don’t forget to reapply) and live, laugh, love your way through what will be an amazing Summer of Fun!
Now, if you’ll excuse me – I need to cover myself in white goop so I can take my son to the pool with his friends, while I read a book and try not to turn into human bacon.
Happy Birthday to Me!
I’m about to celebrate my birthday at the end of this month. No, not a milestone, but a decent number on the age scale! I’ve found myself really reflective this year as I’ve had to move my mom to an assisted living facility. It’s been a whirlwind of to-do’s getting her settled in along with handling her finances. We are also in the midst of planning our daughter’s wedding coming up at the end of this year. I’m full on living the sandwich generation life!
My mom has had a few adjustments in her new life. Coming to the realization that she now has physical limitations has been hard for her. Giving up driving did not come easily for her as it truly was her last bit of independence. However In true ‘Weezie”(my mom) style, she had her little pity party and has now embraced her new adventure! Making friends and crafting and learning how to Uber ! I’m so proud of her and her resilience. She doesn’t focus on what she’s lost, but is focusing on what she’s gained . She will be the first to tell you that her new beginning is an opportunity to be used by Jesus! Wow! I remember not so long ago having a conversation with her and her being so sad for her old neighbors and now she’s overjoyed at the possibility that she can impact twice as many people !
She’s already started planning her 85th birthday which is coming up in July ! She wants a big Celebration with her old and new friends. Imagine celebrating your birthday like you’re 10 years old again. Full of joy, excited for the year ahead, doing something you love with the ones who make you smile.
Why do so many of us stop celebrating as the years pass? Birthdays come and go – maybe there’s a dinner involved, a few cards, some well wishes online. We move up one number, and it’s business as usual. What would it look like to really celebrate our years again – to begin shifting our focus from the fear of aging, to the rich, full lives God is calling us into as the years pass?
But what does God say about it all? If we listen to the One who created us, we will hear all about grace and goodness; not fear and resistance.
He reminds us more than once in His Word that growing older is an honor. “Gray hair is a glorious crown…” Proverbs 16:31 CSB.
The more years we live, the more experiences we’re given to learn from, and the more wisdom and perspective we gain to see life in new and beautiful ways. When we see someone in their later years (or when we look in the mirror and it’s us!) let’s remember what a gift that is.
Some of us also fear growing older for physical reasons. Aging is often seen as a loss of control. Maybe our bodies aren’t able to do what they once could; our memories aren’t as sharp; we begin to need more help than we used to. As the years pass, our fear of the unknown may grow stronger.
But the truth is, we’ve never been in control anyway! From the moment we were created – whether we’ve realized it or not – we’ve relied on our Creator for every breath. Growing older helps us to shed that illusion of control more and more, and to rest in the promises of our loving God. Whether we’re 9 or 90, He vows to be with us every step of the way:
“I will be the same until your old age, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will bear and rescue you.” (Isaiah 46:4 CSB)
Celebrate Life Every Day – Whether you’re celebrating your birthday or that of someone you love, remember that every day in every life matters. Don’t wait for a milestone to make it extra special. Look in the mirror and cherish your laugh lines; remember how they are created.
Over the last few months I have been working with a local coffee company to help bring back the LifeSongs Blend coffee. Sirincci Coffee Company in Slidell has stepped up to the plate and brought our team in for a tasting. They pulled out the red carpet for all of us!
I met Cody, the owner of Sirincci, about a year ago in a business meeting. I knew that he was a genuine guy. Over the last few months I learned that he was a Believer and he and his wife attend church on the Northshore and enjoy Christian music.
I talked to him about getting some spots on the air with us so that you guys, our listeners, could know of an inviting safe place to stop in and get your Bible reading done or study for that next lesson or even just relax. We set a meeting at the shop on Front street in Slidell. As soon as I walked in I was greeted and was made to feel like they were happy I was there.
Cody and I sat down and discussed business and Christianity. It was a great conversation and he was excited about getting on LifeSongs. The relationship built from there. We then had our tasting and now we have the NEW LifeSongs blend coffee. It will be coming out soon y’all. BE READY!
This made me think about how God put people in our lives and how his plan works out for the better of all involved. I am pleased to say LifeSongs and Sirincci Coffee Company are partners in the walk for sharing God is Good all the Time!
*If you would like to partner with LifeSongs, as a business or organization – contact Vance Hughes by email Vance@lifesongs.com or calling the office, 504-816-8000!
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Ever feel like you’re running on empty and can never catch up? Every month seems busier than the one before? Same! Between work, family, chauffeuring kids, errands, and whatever else life throws our way, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos.
If you feel like you’re doing ALL the things, so did Martha. She was running around trying to be the perfect host, while her sister Mary was just chilling with Jesus. And Jesus praised Mary! Sometimes we need to stop doing all the things, like Martha. And just sit with Him, like Mary.
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.” – Luke 10:41-42
Working hard is good! But when working hard becomes everything, it’s not so good. God wants us to trust Him enough to rest.
“It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night… for God gives rest to his loved ones.” – Psalm 127:2
God created everything in six days… and then rested. If the Creator of the universe took a break, maybe we should too!
“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.” – Genesis 2:2
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re always behind — me too! And we’re not alone. But there is rest and peace in Jesus. So let’s start small. Take 5 minutes, or maybe 5 seconds! Breathe. Pray. Just be. God’s not asking us to do it all. He’s asking us to come to Him.
The hardest thing God ever asked me to do was stay.
Not go. Not act. Not build.
Just… stay—especially in a place I didn’t want to be.
Jesus came back from death.
Like, for real. After everything. After the cross, the pain, the burial…He shows up again.
Wounds visible. Voice familiar. Breaking bread with His disciples like old times.
And just when you think finally, He’s here to stay…
He leaves again.
But before He goes, He gives them one simple instruction:
“Stay in Jerusalem.”
Not “Go tell the world.”
Not “Start something new.”
Just… stay.
That part always hits me.
Because if I’m honest, I don’t like staying.
Especially not in hard places.
Especially not in places that remind me of failure or trauma or things that didn’t work out the way I hoped.
And that’s what Jerusalem was. It was the place where everything had gone down. Where Jesus was crucified, where fear was still in the air, and where following Him could get you in serious trouble.
If I had been there, I would’ve wanted to bounce. Head anywhere but back into that mess.
But they stayed. They trusted. They waited.
And I can’t help but wonder, how?
Because I know what it feels like to be in the in-between.
That space after God shows up in a powerful way… and then it feels like He disappears again.
Where you’re just sitting in the place He told you to stay, watching everybody else get their miracle while yours feels stuck in traffic.
Ever been there?
You’re doing the right things.
You’re showing up.
You’re trying to be faithful.
But deep down, you’re wondering: Why not me? Why not yet?
And maybe you’ve got people telling you to “just keep trusting,” and sure, you nod your head and smile. But inside, it’s getting harder to believe this whole thing is leading anywhere good.
I get that.
I’m walking through some of that right now.
But here’s the thing I keep coming back to:
Those disciples had no idea how long they’d be waiting.
We read the story knowing Pentecost was 50 days away – but they didn’t.
For all they knew, it could’ve been 5 days or 5 years.
They stayed anyway.
Not because they were superhuman. Not because it was easy.
But because Jesus had promised something better was coming.
And even when they couldn’t see it, they chose to believe Him.
So here’s what I’m telling myself – and maybe it’s what you need to hear too:
If you’re in the middle right now…
If the miracle hasn’t come…
If it’s hard to stay in the place He told you to be –
Don’t run.
Don’t rush the process.
Don’t assume silence means absence.
Sometimes the greatest move of God is on the other side of the waiting.
He sees you choosing faith over fear.
He sees your quiet obedience.
He sees you staying put when everything in you wants to give up.
And He’s not ignoring you. He’s preparing something.
So hang in there.
Your Pentecost is coming!
He would love first
As we approached and walked through this season reflecting on the Easter events, I found myself overhearing many conversations around me with one common theme–I will respect when it’s deserved. I will love when I am loved. I hear this conversation topic and have two thoughts, 1) I get it. That is the natural response I have in my flesh sometimes. Love me and I will love back– punch me, and in my anger and pride, I will punch harder.
Then conviction kicks in like a double shot of espresso. That’s where number two comes in–2) I would be really disappointed if I got what love I deserve.
God shows me unconditional love everyday. His love doesn’t have strings attached. His love doesn’t require me working to earn it. It is simply given. And that love is what has transformed me and many i love from death to life. I wear this bracelet that says H.W.L.F– which stands for He would love first. He didn’t wait for love to be shown before He loved. That’s the love I both fail to give and strive to give.
Before I begin this story, I just want to preface that if you haven’t heard me talk about it on LifeSongs, I LOVE PEOPLE. Since I was a small child, my parents recognized that God designed me extremely interpersonally and relationally gifted, desiring positive connection with those around me. This has been my greatest strength and weakness as I have grown into a young adult believer of God and deep lover of his people because Satan knows the quickest way to distract my heart is to create conflict within what I treasure most, relationships.
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, back to the story. I could reach into my vault of relational tensions and conflicts and pull out a much more vulnerable example– but this one works just as good without completely oversharing. (Which I have the tendency to do.)
I worked as the receptionist at my grandfather’s insurance agency during the summers and breaks during high school. This was my first official job and opportunity to build friendships with my coworkers and you best bet– I wanted to be friends with everyone in the office. This was not at all a challenge to me if not for ONE coworker. There was this woman I worked with and from the very beginning we did not get along. Day in and day out, it was very obvious to me that she did not like that I was there. Of course, this bothered me. It felt to me that she had made false assumptions about me, which was hurtful. But I remember the Lord drawing me to show her the love and care that I wished she would finally show me. So, I began writing her encouraging notes and leaving them on her desk every single day. Looking back, this is just how I would want someone to respond if I were giving sad, mad at the world vibes. And this is the love God has shown me when I am at my most broken towards him. Even in our apathetic avoidance, and bad attitudes—He pursues us. This woman and I became great friends soon after I started writing these simple but impactful notes. She would start and end her day talking to me and we even went to lunch together every week.
It’s so easy to love when we feel like it, but when we don’t we have a choice to make. One of last week’s uplifting words was John 13:34, it says: A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you.
As Christians, we are called and commanded to love as Christ loved. He chose to love when He was disrespected. He chose to love beyond what people deserved. He chose to love and not rely on His feelings, rather the Lord to source this LOVE. Seeing a person who doesn’t feel seen. Showing compassion instead of piling on criticism and condemnation. Dying to give those who killed Him—eternal life.
Our world has this idea that love is given when love is gotten. But that’s not what this verse says, and it’s not what Christ did. When it’s hard to love, let’s remember that we were loved in our sin, may we be Christ, may we show Christ to others by extending this love, especially when it’s hard and we don’t technically feel like it.
The world sees enough love given on conditional terms, but I believe with all my heart that if Christians took up this radical, unconditional love Jesus demonstrated for the Church, we would see the world begin to come to a state of repentance.
Last weekend I went to a concert and my husband gave me a budget. I totally lived a YOLO life and did not stick with the budget I was given. When I added up all the money I spent, I instantly felt anxious knowing I deserved criticism and not compassion. But, my husband showed me grace, understanding and forgiveness even though I didn’t deserve it.
The most beautiful moments in my life were the ones when I received love that I truly didn’t deserve. Those are the moments that soften my hard heart and draw me to repentance. Those are the moments I most vividly see God characteristics displayed in His people. And those are the moments that make me want to be like Jesus.
May we, the Church, multiply these moments, so that we may multiply those that come to a saving belief in Jesus Christ.
Libby & Jamie MacDonald are just too great together! Check out their chat and learn about Jamie’s hit song “Desperate” and why she’s spent so much time in prison! For real…
*The following is a transcript (using A.I. via Restream) of the interview between Libby & Jamie MacDonald
Hello, Libby. Hey. How are you?
I’m good. How are you?
You’re so cute.
Oh, thank you. Can I be long ways like you? Is this better? Long?
Oh, yeah. That’s awesome. Yeah. You look adorable too. I love your fit, your hair, your bangs, everything.
I look back at pictures of me with long hair, and I’m like, yeah. That there was no sass. It was just looking average. So we’ll keep the sass.
It suits you. It looks good. It looks good.
Thank you.
Well, we wanna welcome singer songwriter, artist behind the song Desperate, Jamie MacDonald to LifeSongs. I’m so excited to get to know you and for our listening family to get to know you more as well. So let’s start with the obviously important facts. You love sardines. You’re from Michigan. Right? Anything else we need to know upfront?
I’m a dog lover.
Oh, alright. Excellent.
Yes.
How many dogs do you have?
I have one, big greyhound black lab, and she’s old and gray, and she’s so sweet. And Aw. We’re we’re pals. We’re inseparable.
Oh, awesome. So there’s only room for one in your heart right now?
Well, we have, I live with a roommate who has a dog too. So there’s a tiny little hairy dog. I forgot what it’s called. Yorkie.
Yorkie. Okay. Yeah. Sure. Yeah. It’s it’s not your dog. So, you know, whatever.
Yeah. Right. Right. Something else running around over here.
Okay. Exactly. So you love dogs. Love music? It’s clearly God’s calling on your life, but it’s been more behind the scenes until recently. Can you tell us a little bit? Share some of that journey with us?
Yeah. So, I mean, for the past five years, I kind of haven’t released any music. So this is all kinda happening very suddenly. It’s been really, really exciting, but I had a kind of a hard five years laying down music, looking after my dad who was in the final stages of dementia and Parkinson’s. Kind of reconnected with him over the pandemic after years of not having my dad in my life. So it was just an interesting, but really beautiful plot twist in my life where I just thought, okay. I never imagined I’d be living with my dad and helping look out for him.
Sometimes he didn’t know who I was. A lot of the time he didn’t know who I was, and it was just some really hard things that we walked through together in the hospital and having falls and, you know, just I didn’t have any friends or family in Georgia, so it was really just my dad and I, and I hadn’t ever cared for anyone with a mental illness, so there was just a lot happening.
Mhmm.
But God did an incredible work in my heart and, during kind of the final few months of his life, I got invited to sing in a prison, and it was kind of the first thing of me stepping back into doing music. And I thought, okay. This feels safe for me because I’m really broken and I know these women are also really broken and so I don’t have to show up with any, you know, amazing like best foot forward, I can just show up and be myself and sing and share my gift and so that changed my life. I showed up and they were, there was a choir of women who all have a life sentence, and they had rehearsed one of my songs. And so, as I was coming down the hallway to meet them, I could hear, you know, a song playing in it live, and it was my song. And so I walked into all these faces singing my song back to me with so much joy, and I just break down crying, and it was the most hope I had felt in years. And so from then it was just like, okay, I know I’m right where I’m supposed to be and, I never wanted to leave after that.
I mean, I started, we did a wonderful performance after rehearsing for about a month, right there in the prison. And then after that, it was like, well, I can’t stop coming now. I’ve been coming weekly. And so I ended up joining staff there, as a volunteer to teach songwriting weekly. And just these girls became my closest friends, and a lot of them are my age and had been in there for almost twenty years already and just completely filled with the joy of the Lord and so much strength.
So they were actually the ones who walked me through losing my dad and, you know, I thought I was showing up to give them something and they were pouring into me and carrying me this whole time. And so, when I saw, you know, the result of Christian music on them in the prison and how much they live and breathe on Christian radio and Christian music. I was like, okay. This is huge and it’s this is so important. And if I could get a song on the radio, I can reach all these prisons at one time.
And I just kinda saw this new purpose in, music, and it felt really just kind of God was breathing on it. And I thought, I don’t have to ask God if this matters. I know this matters. And so I I was like, let’s go sign a record deal and let’s get a song on the radio. And, and now, like, you got it. Let’s do this. And then now it’s not much later. And it doesn’t always happen that way, but I just kinda in my head, that’s how it happens. You sign a record deal, and then you’re on the radio. And I guess it that’s not always how it goes, but this time it was. So God was like, well, this is what she expected. And so I guess I’ll I guess I’ll do that.
Oh, it’s so beautiful. I but you’re so right. You know, the power of music, it’s it’s really it’s so healing, you know, just talking about your dad. And I bet music was able to … my mom’s in the early stages of dementia as well, and there’s something so powerful about music, reconnecting memories, and kinda restoring some relationships and firing those neurons that haven’t, those muscles that haven’t been used in a long time. And Yes. Gosh. I just think that’s so powerful to go from that with your dad to then being in the prison with these women who were having life transformation. The power of music and how God’s using you is just awesome.
Thank you so much. And I’m so sorry to hear about your mom. Oh, lovely. Do you guys do you guys ever have moments where you’re listening to music together and it’s just kinda, like, activates, like, more in her brain? It unlocks something.
It really does. Yeah. It’s incredible. And it it’s amazing to watch because it seems like how can that possibly, how can that possibly be? But it really it really does.
Yeah. Yes. I saw the same with my dad. Sometimes I couldn’t have a normal conversation with him. Most of the time, I couldn’t. And Yeah. I would put on a song, which he hadn’t heard all of his favorite music in years because he just you know, with the mental illness, he forgot about all his music. And I still remembered from when I was a kid, the songs that he liked from the eighties and, like, old Christian songs and, I don’t know, Petra and Michael W. Smith. And so I’d pull up one of his old favorites and suddenly, he’s just you know, Jimmy was back, and he could remember things. And he wanted to talk about his boxing career and then talk about, you know, being married and having us kids.
And it was just like the music unlocked those memories for him. And he knew every word to the songs too, which was cool to see. Because he hadn’t heard them in fifteen, twenty years and with his mental illness, none of that mattered. And he, all the words were still right there, and it was so beautiful. Beautiful.
Oh my gosh. So I guess Christian music, has that been a a part of your life for a long time? Like, do you have any old CCM jams that you rock out to or that you love?
I mean okay. So when Place in This World just made a comeback, that was, like, the best thing ever because I have loved that song my whole life, and my dad used to sing that when we were kids. And and the message has just always meant a lot to me because I’ve always felt that way. Like, where do I belong? Like, is there something I can call my own in this world? It’s just, like, it’s so fun to belt that song with all your heart, and it’s always been a part of my life. So for it to now be back on the radio, I just kinda feel this little wink, like, looking up to heaven and thinking about my dad.
Like, he’s up there jamming to this too because this has always been his favorite song, and now it’s back on the radio. And I don’t know. It just feels really special, but that’s definitely a a jam that’s always been alive for me and I love the new version. Yeah. It’s awesome.
And, you know, who knows what song might play next? Maybe Desperate, perhaps. You never know.
I love what you said about the song Desperate, which is connecting with so many people. And I think you described it like, the lyrics as giving language as a tool to help us in those moments when we feel so heavy, and things are out of our control. And it is just such an anthem. It is so powerful, and I can tell it came from a very deep well. Can you share with us a little bit about just how that song came to be?
I, like I said, I was living in Georgia and going through just, like, some of my hardest times. Lost my dad in August of 2023, and shortly after, I was offered a record deal. And so it was just, like, walking off the grief of losing my dad and just that whole five years, which was just so isolating and really, really tough. I was afraid to step into these writing rooms as a new artist because I couldn’t pretend I was okay at at that time, you know. I was in the midst of heavy grief and loss and, not to mention not having done music in five years and just feeling like I don’t know what I’m doing, and it was just cool to see God kind of breathe on all of that and say, No. That’s actually why I have you here because I want you to write from that place and I have something I’m gonna give you that, you know, is gonna help a lot of people and you wouldn’t have it had you not just walked through what you walked through.
And so now I’m, you know, walking in the writing rooms and, even still I’m processing a lot and it wasn’t that long ago. So I’m still in different phases of grief and, facing some other things in my family, but I’m not afraid to write about that stuff anymore because I’m seeing the way it’s connecting to people. And I think there’s a time coming where I’m gonna get to write about this new season I’m in and there’s gonna be joyful, songs. And I do have a few on the way that are more joyful. My next single is going to be, a bit more just like upbeat in Gospel.
And I feel like that reflects my true personality more than, some of these other ballads that I’m doing, but I just love that God is using, like, my darkest time to bring light and hope to other people. And I, I’m always gonna be bringing the heartfelt ballads because I’ve just got a lot of experiences to draw from.
Yeah, yeah, if you gotta go through the tough times there may as well be a purpose, right?
Exactly. Exactly and it’s, it’s just like casting this, almost like a rainbow over all that happened. You know? It just feels like hope. Yeah. Yeah. It feels like hope.
Yes. That’s like a song title right there.
I’m just I was just thinking that.
I’m looking forward to that one. That’s gonna be a jam.
Oh, okay. Well, we’ll make sure you get your little cut since you help to highlight this moment.
Perfect.
So that’s what I’m hoping for.
Okay.
I know we only have a couple minutes left, so we’re running short on time. I just wanna do a really quick little Lifesongs Lightning Round. You can tell us which of these you might be more Desperate for, if you will. Just answer first thing comes to your mind. I was gonna say dog or cat, but I already know the answer to that one.
Yeah. Okay.
Dog. Right?
Dog.
Okay. Sure. Coffee, tea, Bone broth?
Bone broth. Yeah.
Okay. Yeah. Alright. I had a feeling.
She knows me.
What about summer or winter?
Summer. Absolutely. Summer. Yeah.
Yeah. Beach or mountains?
Woah. That one’s hard right now.
It is hard.
Mountains.
Mountains. Okay. That’s okay. It can change. It can fluctuate. I know sometimes it’d be beach. That’s alright. Okay. Early bird or night owl?
Night owl, but I’m having to change in this season, and I’m struggling.
Yeah. That’s where the bone broth comes in handy. Right? Gets you gets you going first thing.
Yeah. Yes.
What about a rainy day or a sunny day?
Sunny. Yeah.
No questions. Yes. This is a tough one. Call or text?
Oh. Text.
Text. Yeah. Okay. And do you like surprises or or no?
I think I’m growing to like surprises. In the past, probably not, but I think as I grow and heal, I’m just more open to everything. And Yeah.
That’s a great answer. Is there a surprise you can think of that you got?
Just the best? I got invited up to Capitol [Records] a couple weeks ago, and they said, we just want you to come up and high five the team, which was, like, a radio team, which is five people. And they’re like, yeah. We just wanted, come have you high five us because, something to do with your single, going to radio, Desperate. And so I show up there, and it was the whole entire staff all waiting, you know, to celebrate.
And then, you know, they let me know that Desperate made history for the most radio spins debut single of all time. And I just, there was a video of me, and you can tell I’m like, what’s going on here? Because it was just I was surprised. I wasn’t… I’m a slow processor, so I’m trying to say, like, why is everyone in this room? I thought I was high fiving five people.
I may have, like, you know, done things differently that morning. Maybe had some coffee first to be like, I’m here. I’m awake. I know what’s going on. I was like, AH. But it was so beautiful. And, yeah, I just feel so supported and loved in this season. So I think I feel like a safe place for anything.
Yeah. I love that. That’s awesome. Well, thank you for being so vulnerable and and sharing your story with us and just being a part of what God’s doing. It’s so great to see his purpose over your life and and that he’s using you uniquely you exactly as you are in such a beautiful and powerful way. Appreciate you joining us today.
Thanks for having me, and I hope to talk to you again soon.
I’ve had so much fun chatting with you. Thank you so much.
Alright. Bye bye.
There’s a very blurry line between caring for the needs of the people God puts in your life – and taking care of yourself. And honestly, it is something I struggle with. I’m the type to give all I have to give and then collapse and fall apart – and I’m convinced that is neither healthy, nor Holy.
Maybe it was how I was raised – maybe it is a misunderstanding of masculinity – maybe I’m just busted in the head, but for as long as I can remember I’ve been a hard worker. Not that hard work – or working hard is bad. In fact it is really good. Until a point. My problem is I never can tell what that point is until I’m well past it.
Do you also take on more than you can handle because it has to get done and no one else seems to be stepping up? That could be in family relationships – household chores – tasks at work – serving at Church – any number of ways and places. For me – I tend to throw myself at tasks to keep from being still – because in the stillness I have to wrestle with my own need for grace and patience and forgiveness.
The world has put a tremendous focus on self-care in recent years, to a fault. We are not called to live a self-centered life, but rather a servant’s life for Christ. That said, Jesus modeled getting away from the crowd – even from his friends and family – to rest in the Father. For some of us, that is even more uncomfortable than doubling down on serving, working or doing anything to keep from stopping.
Especially now, during this season of Lent, building up to the celebration of Resurrection Sunday, can I encourage you – and me – to be intentional about doing the hard work of not working.
Stop. Sit still. Confess. Cry.
Let the God who loves you so much He sent His only Son for you hold you close and fill you with His Spirit.
I grew up in small churches, singing old hymns along to the piano. So many of those lyrics still stay with me today. Lyrics like these:
Count your blessings, name them one by one.
Count your blessings, see what God has done.
If you only hear the chorus of this hymn, it seems like a happy song and it is! But it’s not speaking of easy times. The verses speak of storms, burdens, and conflict. And in those times, it is most important to count our blessings! It helps us remember what God has done in the past, so we are reminded of what He will do in the present and future.
My son is starting high school this year and I have anxiety as he starts a new phase of his life at a new school. But I’m reminding myself to count my blessings. God has led us to each school my son has attended – preschool, elementary school, and middle school. And that reminder is giving me peace that He has led us to this high school.
At LifeSongs, God gives us a similar reassurance. As a radio ministry that is supported by our listeners, we come to you twice a year and ask for your financial support. We call this Share-a-thon, and it can be a bit daunting. But God has provided through listeners, like you, for 45 years. So, we count our blessings, and we remember that He will provide for LifeSongs again!
We count you as a blessing to this ministry! Without financial support from listeners like you, LifeSongs would not exist!
We’ll soon have LifeSongs Fall Share-a-thon. Your monthly gift of $30, $50 or any amount makes this ministry possible. Your single gift of $100, $500 or another amount encourages others to do the same.
If you give BEFORE our Fall Share-a-thon, you will help us with a special $50,000 match!
We appreciate you prayerfully considering supporting LifeSongs.
School is back! With it begins the start of a new season for many families. New schools, grades, routines, friends, and experiences. It can be exciting, but it can also be nerve-wracking!
Growing up, my family had a “tradition” of being fashionably late to almost everything, including school. It was our family trademark! We were known for it far and wide. It wasn’t that we didn’t try; mornings just always seemed to get the best of us. But every new school year, we were determined to change! For the first couple of weeks, we were like clockwork—early to rise, dressed and ready, and even had time for breakfast together. There was something magical about those early days, the smell of new school supplies, the excitement of seeing friends, and the promise of a fresh start.
But soon enough, the reality of early mornings began to set in. The novelty wore off, and our perfectly timed mornings became the usual scramble—lost shoes, missing homework, and last-minute lunch-making. What was new and exciting quickly became old and mundane, and before we knew it, we were back to our familiar routine of rushing out the door.
That shift from excitement to mundane is something we all experience. It’s easy to be enthusiastic when things are fresh and new, but maintaining that energy as the days go on can be challenging. This is where the power of consistency comes into play. Consistency isn’t about maintaining the same level of excitement all the time; it’s about showing up and giving your best effort, even when the novelty has worn off. It’s in those everyday moments, those small actions, that we often find the most growth and progress.
In our spiritual lives, consistency is equally important. Just as a student benefits from a consistent study routine, we benefit from regularly spending time with God. Whether it’s through daily prayer, reading the Bible, or simply reflecting on His presence in our lives, these practices help us grow closer to Him. It’s not always about having profound spiritual experiences; sometimes, it’s about faithfully doing the small things, day in and day out.
So, as we embark on this new school year, let’s commit to the power of consistency. Whether it’s in our studies, our relationships, or our faith, let’s strive to be consistent in our efforts. It might not always be thrilling, but it will be rewarding! As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Let’s embrace this new season with a spirit of dedication, knowing that with God’s help, we can persevere through all the ups and downs. Our prayer is that this school year be filled with growth, learning, and the steady presence of God’s love and guidance every day.
What are your expectations? Somehow, I think unrealized or unmet thoughts (by ourselves or others) about how something will turn out can take a toll on us. We can’t possibly know how every situation is going to unfold, but managing our expectations can help if things take an unexpected turn. And by “managing,” I mean letting go of the tight grip we have on our own ideas and allowing God to take the reins.
The U.S. men’s gymnastics team took home a bronze medal this year in Paris – their first medal in SIXTEEN years! Can you imagine the weight of those expectations over the years? And yet, in a way, it’s actually unmet expectations that contributed to their win.
In what might be the most pressure-packed situation you could imagine in men’s gymnastics − the last routine of the last rotation of the Olympic final − Stephen Nedoroscik’s incredible performance on pommel horse ultimately helped secure the bronze medal for the team.
Stephen started in gymnastics when he was just 5 years old. By the time he was in high school, he noticed that his gymnastics path wasn’t exactly going as he had expected. He wasn’t progressing the way he’d thought he would. So, at the tail end of high school, he decided to let go of how he thought things were going to be and instead focus on one thing: the pommel horse. He went all in. And because of that, Team USA has a bronze medal for the first time in 16 years!
Maybe you feel like you need to be great at everything. Maybe you feel like you’ve got to balance every spinning plate in your life. Maybe, it’s time to reframe those expectations.
Proverbs 16:9 says “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
What is God asking of you? What’s He calling you to do? Focus on him, go all in! Trust that He is in control and know that He has great plans for you.
My husband and I recently flew to Indianapolis for a work trip. In the process of arriving at our destination, we ran into every possible problem. Our first flight was delayed a number of times. As we were FINALLY boarding the plane, my husband’s carry-on got taken and measured by the airline team and he was told it was too thick to board with and that they would check the bag. (Spoiler Alert: We didn’t see his luggage for three days.) Because of our first flight being delayed, we found ourselves desperately sprinting (Home Alone style) through the absolutely MASSIVE and confusing Dallas Airport to try to make our connecting flight….and ICING ON THE CAKE, we missed our connecting flight from Dallas to Indy.
We wandered the airport trying to find someone to help us with very little success until we saw a customer service desk, where we received no help. Every interaction with the airline was a bust and we became super discouraged that we would never get to our destination.
After gathering ourselves we found our phones flooding with encouragement. Also, my husband’s sister who lives in the Dallas Fort Worth area dropped everything to come pick us up. She generously offered her room at her college to my husband and I. The next day, she made sure to show us some of her favorite spots before dropping us off at the airport. That night we made it to Indianapolis and found ourselves being constantly blessed with needs being met from start to finish of our trip.
This chain of events got me thinking about the temptation of doing life alone. The pandemic got many of us used to and more comfortable with doing life separate from others. When we choose to place ourselves within a community and in situations where we have to manage interactions with others, there is the understanding that it will be messy. But these interactions, encounters and experiences give us opportunities to bear the joy of Christ, which is impossible if we live removed. The truth is we need people, mess and all. Though I may have to make friends on road trips for the foreseeable future as I may be avoiding air travel.
We at LifeSongs would love to hear of how someone was a blessing to you in your life. Share with us by calling or texting 855-856-8581.
Josh and Nancy missed the good ole days when they were the dynamic duo of the LifeSongs Morning Show – so they put on some sunscreen, kicked the kids in the pool and had a little chat covering everything from Summer to the Olympics to competitive hog dog eating and even the bravest little donkey in the world!
Enjoy some time with your besties by the pool!
Hey LifeSongs family, as we are entering into Hurricane season I wanted to talk about a group of people that are always ready and prepared for disasters.
We are all gearing up and making our preparations as to what we are going to do if a hurricane heads our way. Where are we going to go? What are we going to bring with us? Some even, like me, watch the storms and wait till the last minute to decide to leave. As a Military man and a person who wants to help anyway I can, I will most likely send my family and stay behind to watch over our stuff and to help those in need.
Like me, there is a group of people in the NOLA area that has made it their mission to help others with tragedy strikes…
One Voice NOLA is a local team of amazing people that prepare for disasters all year long so that they are ready when the time comes and they are called into action. Most recently they were called to Slidell for the tornado, as well as Texas to help with the flooding relief efforts. This group of people pack up in trailers and RVs and head to the areas where they are needed to bring supplies, food and most importantly: prayer. They set up shop and give away hot meals and supplies each day. They offer prayer services for anyone and everyone including others that are there serving and helping the communities. That is what the love of our GOD looks like.
I was speaking with Jamie, one of the masterminds behind this operation, and he said that they were packing up and headed back home from Texas. He asked that we pray for them as they are now in the mode of getting the supplies they are going to need for this year’s Hurricane season. I asked that you all join me in prayer and pray for this team of selfless people and provide for all their needs so that they can meet the needs of our amazing city as we come into this Hurricane season. How amazing to watch the hands and feet of our GOD work together! Thank you One Voice NOLA. Thanking GOD in advance for all he will do through you guys!
Why you might ask? Because GOD is Good all the Time!
Leanna Crawford is a sweet, sweet singer/songwriter who you first met with her break-out single I Know A Place. Leanna joined Josh on the LifeSongs Morning Show to share about her writing process, what she loves about New Orleans and to face the LifeSongs Lightning Round!
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Leanna Crawford (@leannacrawfordmusic)
One of my favorite authors is a priest named Henri Nouwen. He’s got some tremendous insights into life. Here’s what he said one day:
Sometimes we are called to do great acts of kindness or make great sacrifices. But this is seldom normal.
Usually we have the opportunity for many small acts of love and service, and are called to make many
small sacrifices. The significance and power of these cannot be underestimated.
Simple acts of charity can be done by anyone—a child or adult, in any area of life. Just one act, word, can
make a profound difference. Even a testimony that we heard about through LifeSongs, regarding a young
man in drug recovery. His life has spiraled out of control and he came into a rehab program. A good step.
And in recovery circles, small things matter. Each morning he made his bed. No big deal you might
say—but for him it’s a big decision as he never bothered much before. He makes his bed as a commitment
to getting better—to his getting over drug addiction. He listened to LifeSongs, He read his Bible. He does
it on purpose and strengthens his resolve to make his life have purpose too. As he smooths out the sheet
wrinkles, he feels God is helping him sort some personal ego problems as well.
If you read the Bible you’ll see that God likes small things. it’s his specialty to take insignificant
smallness and turn them into amazing strategies. Many of the events started out small—like people we
read in the Bible who felt inadequate and scared. Yet God wanted them to be leaders and take a big step
forward—a boy with a small lunch gave his meal to Jesus who blessed this and fed 5,000. Small things do
matter. Small financial gifts of support have a BIG impact. I have personal experience with how our
family started giving small and God has allowed us over the years to give more than we could have ever
imagined!
The day of big things is coming. Until then, do not neglect the day of small things. As long as we are in the day of small things, then, our job is to bear the Spirit’s fruit of faithfulness as we wait for God to bring the big things (Galatians 5:22–23).
Your gifts of financial support help LifeSongs see and share, by faith, all the big things right in front of us. Thank you for your faithfulness and thank you for believing BIG!
Can you believe 2024 is nearly halfway over? How did you spend the first five months of the year? Time flies so fast that it’s often easy to forget all the good that is happening. But Psalms 46:8 says, “Come and see what the Lord has done, the amazing things he has done on the earth.”
And God is doing amazing things through YOU and your support of LifeSongs!
Your giving:
– provided over 14,000 meals for families in Southeast Louisiana
– sent over 8,000 local students back to school with supplies
– shared the Gospel through a shoebox gift with 100,000+ children
– helped countless lives be changed by the Good News
Thank you so much! You’ve earned some fun and plenty is coming your way during LifeSongs Days of Summer Fun! You can:
– share a daily “Moment of Joy”
– skate the night away at Airline Skate Center every Tuesday 6-8pm
– solve the mystery of the “Secret Sound” & win
– crank up the AC for Christmas in July
– introduce others to LifeSongs for encouragement & fun all summer long
Do you know what else is fun? Supporting LifeSongs! When you support LifeSongs, you are giving a gift to your community. Each day LifeSongs reminds Southeast Louisiana that God Is Good All The Time.
Make a difference in your community with your monthly gift of $30, $50, $100 or another amount. Share the Good News with your single gift of $100, $500, $1000 or any amount.
Thank you for prayerfully considering supporting LifeSongs. We hope you will join us for a fun-filled summer!
I do not have an extensive wardrobe. I rotate the same shirts and pants each week. Most days I wear the same shoes (a pair of black New Balance sneakers) because they are comfortable and don’t attract attention. But I was feeling feisty a few weeks ago, preparing to go to Miramar Beach for the Lauren Daigle Kaleidoscope Weekend. I wanted some sock-free slip-on shoes and saw
Josh & Elena at Kaleidoscope Beach Weekend
that Van’s had released a wide cut of their classic checkerboard slip-ons. After a little deal searching, I ordered the new kicks and have enjoyed having a little variety in my footwear.
But I noticed a change in my swagger with the new shoes. When I wear the old school slip-ons (#nosockssaturday), I feel different. I feel a little more laid back – a little less stressed – a little more “come what may.”
Maybe that’s why the Apostle Paul told the Church in Ephesus to “put on the full armor of God” (Ephesians Chapter 6) … I mean if new shoes can make you feel like a new man or woman, how much more of a change should we experience when we intentionally clothe ourselves in the attitude of Christ!?
Pray with me as we clothe ourselves spiritually with the “Armor of God”:
Father, thank you for providing us the steps to take to prepare ourselves to live this life well, as sacrifices for Your Kingdom.
We put on the BELT OF TRUTH and BODY ARMOR OF (Your) GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS, knowing You declare what is Right from Wrong and we are protected from the enemy because your Righteousness is perfect and strong.
The SHOES OF PEACE help us walk in completeness with your Spirit inside of us, as we dwell on your Good News. And we hold the SHIELD OF FAITH which protects us from the devil’s attacks.
Our minds are protected by the HELMET OF SALVATION – You redeem our minds daily, replacing the darkness of our worries with the confidence of Your Love. And when we speak, we wield the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT – Your words, not ours, bringing hope to everyone in our lives.
In Jesus name, Amen.
The flowers are in bloom, festival season has begun and students are donning caps and gowns to march across the graduation stage. This time of year can be a time of big changes, from weather to schedules to life in general. (Congratulations, by the way, to the Class of 2024! May God guide you on His path for what’s next.)
Maybe it’s been awhile since you held that diploma. Chances are you’ve been through many changes since then. Can you think of an experience, a moment or time that was a life-changing season for you?
Julie in Houma shared this: “Over 20 years ago I was at work just coming back from my lunch hour. I was in my car about to head back in when I started hearing Christian lyrics on the radio and discovered LifeSongs! Because that moment changed my life forever, I will forever love LifeSongs. I stay thankful, I stay encouraged, I get to hear beautiful Christian music, all day everyday. I’m just so grateful for LifeSongs and how they remind me of how good our God is to me and my family.”
I’m not someone who typically loves change. It can be hard. But the idea of God using this ministry to change lives is one I welcome! Imagine a change that brings more gratitude, encouragement and hope! God is doing that through this ministry in Julie’s life, and in the lives of so many others who listen. And it’s your support that makes that happen! Thank you!
May we embrace the newness of this season with thankful hearts, together. Look at what God is doing! Thank you for being part of changing lives.
Adam Agee might be the newest Newsboy – but he’s a veteran of Christian music. He’s been a pop-punk band front-man, worship leader and even did a stint as the lead singer of Audio Adrenaline before finding his forever-home with the Newsboys. We’ll get to see him on stage with Michael Tait and the rest of the Newsboys on May 10th – but you can hear his story now, because he Zoomed into the LifeSongs Morning Show with Josh!
View this post on InstagramA post shared by NEWSBOYS (@newsboys)
Coming to New Orleans, Friday, May 10th – more than a concert – a CELEBRATION with family and fans! Newsboys presents WORLDWIDE REVIVAL NIGHTS!
WHO: The Newsboys
WHEN: Friday, May 10, 2024 | 7 PM (Doors Open at 6 PM)
WHERE: Victory Church | 5708 Airline Dr. Metairie, LA
INFO: CLICK HERE for tickets. (Starting at under $30, with family rates, VIP and Artist Circle seats!)
Seph Schlueter joined the LifeSongs Morning Show where he crushed the LifeSongs Lightning Round, geeked out about Lord of the Rings and offers some lovely encouragement on trusting Jesus. Thanks Seph – for great songs – and a new friendship!
It’s the LifeSongs morning show, and if you have listened to LifeSongs any over the last several months, you have heard Counting My Blessings by Seth Schlueter. You’ve also heard me accidentally butcher Seph Schlueter’s last name multiple times, but I’m so excited to have Seph here on the LifeSongs Morning Show with us. How you doing, man?
I am so good, dude. And common, common problem. I, I did it to myself. The last name, man. It’s rough.
I love Counting my Blessings. I was looking at your website earlier. You’ve got another song you just did a video for. That song is even better. Like it’s so good, dude.
It is so funny because like, all of these songs were written like two years ago, so it’s funny that they come out and I’m like, oh yeah, I forgot, like, I like this one, you know? But also at the same time, like really excited because I’m like, I’ve been writing so much in those two years and I have new stuff that I’m even more excited. So it’s just funny how that all at all pans out.
You know, you’re a really great songwriter and it’s awesome to play you here on LifeSongs.
Thank you man I super appreciate it.
So tell us about the song that has introduced you to the LifeSongs family. Tell us about Counting My Blessings.
Yeah, man. Counting my Blessings. Like I said, I wrote it like two years ago. It was me and two friends, a guy named Jordan and a guy named Jonathan. We were talking about life, talking about just like all the things going on. And it was this really cool moment where like, for all three of us, the way we phrased it was kind of like we were living in the answer to prayers that we had prayed years ago. You know, like years ago, we had prayed for this to happen in our families, this to happen in our lives, this to happen in our careers. And it’s like, whoa, we’re living in that. And so often we’re so focused on like the next big dream, the next big goal, the next upcoming thing that we just forget to pause and just thank God for, like what he’s done. We wrote just from that place of wanting to give God gratitude and just fix our eyes on Him, because, you know, there’s going to be easy moments and there’s going to be tough moments. It’s like not everything is perfect. But in those moments, if you pause and look, you can always find a reason to be grateful.
I get messages all the time from LifeSongs listeners that are like, I was having a rotten day, and then you played that song from Seph and I started Counting My Blessings, started listing them out, and it completely changed my outlook on the day.
Oh praise God, that’s so cool. That’s what I love to hear. Like, that’s that’s the reason I do what I do. And I know why you do what you do. So, like, that’s so cool.
We’re talking with Seth Schlueter on the LifeSongs Morning Show. Seph, who are you? Like, give us a little insight into to. You know, you were born in Pennsylvania, grew up in Ohio, but, like, tell us about yourself. Let us, let us inside the mind of Seph Schlueter.
Scary place. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania. Moved to Ohio when I was 13. I’ve been here since. Worked as a missionary, grew up in an awesome Christian family my whole life, but really gave my life to the Lord as a as a sophomore in high school. Just it’s where I really encountered him. And it wasn’t in like a big, powerful moment. It was literally just coming to Him day to day in prayer. And just He became more and more real to me and I wanted to give my life to Him, wanted to serve him. Ministry and music is the way that He’s called me to do that. So I’m just so blessed that I get to do this, you know, full time that this gets to be what I love to do. I’m a nerd. I love superheroes. I love Lord of the Rings, I love Star Wars, I love reading I love exercising. I did a marathon and a half marathon last year. I did a triathlon. I just got married six months ago. That’s the most important thing. My wife’s amazing. Yeah, man. Life is beautiful. I’m so blessed.
That’s awesome. You look like a Lord of the Rings fan. Like you’ve got the Legolas hair.
I’m, like, trying to be like Aragorn or Legolas, you know, just like, give me a sword and, like, medieval garb, and I’m ready to go.
True story. I just saved this on my Instagram feed. It was a REEL of someone getting a tattoo of literally just the map that Tolkien had drawn of middle earth all. It was like a full sleeve up his arm, and I’m like, that’s the coolest tattoo I’ve ever seen.
That is epic. There are people who have, like, learned the whole Elvish language. Like, I’m not quite there, but I do respect it.
You said you were into running. You know that they have this running club that you can be a part of that tells you the distances and the topography to run, to go across Middle Earth.
That is crazy. It never ceases to amaze me. Like how far people will take like their their fandom. Yeah. Like that is that is next level. That’s so funny.
So let’s have a little fun with the Lightning Round. I’m just going to give you some quick yes or no. 1 or 2 options. You just fire off your answers as best you can. If we get sidetracked, that’s cool. Ready? All right. Lifesongs lightning round with Seph Schlueter. Coffee or tea?
Coffee.
Correct answer. Summer or winter?
Summer.
Okay. So you like the beach or mountains?
I like both of them a lot. The ideal is like, right in between. I can be on the beach, and then all of a sudden I turn around and I’m right there on the mountains. Yeah.
So like California.
Yeah, we we had our honeymoon in Costa Rica, and that was kind of like it too. Like there was like mountains right there. And then also like beach right there. It was crazy.
So you have grown up in the era of social media. Do you have a preferred social media that you use, or are you on the other side of that now? And just like I’m out.
I like have such a love hate relationship with social media, Instagram is the one I use the most. I don’t really do TikTok except to repost the things that I’m posting on Instagram. I actually find LinkedIn is kind of fun. I feel like LinkedIn provides the most value out of any social media that I’ve like, been a part of.
Is LinkedIn a social media thing? I thought it was just where you posted your resume?
No. People post things like, you know, business hacks, life hacks, whatever, all sorts of things. So that’s kind of fun. There’s so much negative things with it and it’s so draining, you know. So I think it’s like one of those things where I see it being used for so much good, but also you just have to have a lot of really good boundaries and discipline with it, because otherwise it can it can drain you in so many ways.
So very wise. All right. Dog or cat?
Dog.
Early bird or night owl?
Both actually, which is a dangerous place to be, but I typically try to order my schedule so that I’m more of an early bird and less of a night owl.
That’s hard to do, though, with your career. Like you perform mostly in the evenings, right?
I know, I know, and I’m intrigued to do it, to see how it all plays out because I’m about to go on tour, so it might shift a little bit, but typically I try to be up every morning by 540 and I try to go to sleep by like 1040. So it gives me like seven hours of sleep.
That’s that’s good. That’s really healthy. Very again, very wise. That’s very wise. Is your wife gonna get to go on tour with you or is she going to be working?
She’ll be able to come to some of the dates, but she’ll be she won’t be, like, on the bus with us, so.
That’ll be hard.
I know. Now, the nice thing is, it’s only like four day stints, so it’ll be like, I’m gone for four days, and then I’m back and then gone for four days, and then I’m back. So it’s not the worst.
Perfect spring day. Is it going to be rainy or is it going to be sunny?
That’s a great question. I think I would love like a little morning rain. So you could kind of get rain in the morning and it’s like just kind of this nice little drizzle, like kind of misty and then it gets really sunny and then by the time evening comes around, it’s thunderstorming and you can just get in and get cozy. I cheated.
I mean, it sounds like the perfect day, honestly. And finally, peanut butter, crunchy or smooth.
Ooh. I go back and forth I think in general smooth.
Yeah, I agree with you on that. I think people who always choose crunchy, there might be some like mental health issues that we have to contend with.
We may need to pray for them, but like it’s it’s all cool.
Well Seph, that is the end of the Lightning round. You did great. All correct answers. Toed the line a couple times.
I was close to failing.
Give LifeSongs family just one word of encouragement. What has God been teaching you lately that you would share?
I think just dependency. You read the Beatitudes, you pray with so much of what Jesus has spoken, and so much of it is like, blessed are the poor in spirit. Do not be anxious about anything. Just like learning to be dependent. I think in our world today you hear self-made man, self-made this – all me, me, me. And it’s like, no, I want to be a God made man, you know? Like I want to be that kind of person that just that is relying on the Lord, that’s able to lean back and trust in my God, you know, in my father to take care of me. So my word of encouragement is just trust God. You know, it doesn’t mean you just sit back and do nothing. I’ve heard said, God can’t drive a parked car. You got to at least get the car moving, but trust Him to take you to where he needs you to go and just trust Him to provide for you in every step of the journey.
Great word. Thank you, Seph Schlueter for hanging out with us. It’s awesome to get to meet you.
Yeah, such a pleasure.
Thank you.
“Throw Me Somethin’, Mister!” That’s the cry heard all over New Orleans today, by kids and adults alike, hoping coconuts, rubber chickens and plenty of beads rain down upon them. Sometimes it feels like those float riders are holding back. Other times, they are unhinged – freely dumping the goods.
The thing about most of those throws, though, is that no matter how badly you thought you wanted it in the moment, once you get home or even back to your car, you realize that you’re saddled with a useless rubber chicken or weighed down by a million beads. (Unless, of course, you can save them for next year and, in turn, generously recycle that haul!)
(This is probably a weird way to talk about generosity, but hey, it’s New Orleans. And it’s Fat Tuesday.)
What if we could be generous in ways that mattered? Not just excess stuff, but freely giving to others by dedicating time to them, purposely being kind, using our talents to help those around us or donating financially? When you take the time to sit with someone who needs it or encouraging someone who’s going through a tough time, that’s giving. That’s being generous. And there’s something pretty awesome about being on the giving AND receiving end of kindness. It’s like a feel-good infinity loop!
2 Corinthians 9:7-8 says, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
So, as the excess broken beads on the streets are washed away and we prepare our hearts for Lent, maybe we can do so with a realization that it’s not just “stuff” we can be generous with. We can ask God to give us a benevolent heart, one that encourages us to cheerfully and freely give to others, motivated by His great love for us. That is so much MORE (in 2024) than plastic throws!
P.S. – Thank YOU for so generously giving to support the ministry of LifeSongs. We’re incredibly grateful to serve our community by sharing God’s love together!
I wish we all had personal cheerleaders. (Shout out to Logan Cain, of the band Cain, who is an actual cheerleading champion!)
Imagine having a team of folks whose sole purpose is to pump you up, encourage you when you are down, and, I guess, spell out simple words. (That seems to be a big part of cheerleading.)
Honestly, this is a dream we can MAKE true, by being each other’s cheerleaders!
“..your morning show is the best part of my day, especially on the way to school where I am a middle school teacher. I often share your words/news/comments that I hear on the way into “work.” The Holy Spirit has given you a gift. Thank you for sharing it on air. You & Libby are amazing humans. I thank God for you both and the rest of your team at Lifesongs.”
-Sheila David
Sheila is an exceptional cheerleader! I feel ten feet tall and so grateful because of her encouragement. The truth is, the LifeSongs team isn’t anything but WILLING. Just like you! We’re willing to be a light. We’re willing to admit our shortcomings and how God more than makes up for them. And we’re willing to use whatever talents, skills and finances God has given us to share His Love with Southeast Louisiana and the world!
Because of your generous support of LifeSongs, I want to give you a T-H-A-N-K-S!
What’s that spell?
BTW… Here’s Logan Cain showing off his cheer-skills…
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Logan Cain (@logodash)
Josh got to spend time chatting with author, Dr. Ed Uszynski about the upcoming Weekend To Remember in Baton Rouge! This podcast features tons of stuff you didn’t hear this morning on The LifeSongs Morning Show! (Plus, all the charming stuff that aired on LifeSongs Radio)
And don’t miss FamilyLife’s Weekend To Remember!
Are you investing in your marriage? Speakers Tim & Joy Downs and Justin & Sharita Bilson will lead a Weekend to Remember. This FamilyLife event is all about putting your best foot forward in marriage, whether you are newly engaged or have been married for decades!
WHAT: Weekend to Remember with FamilyLife
WHEN: Friday, April 12 – Sunday April 14, 2023
WHERE: Baton Rouge Marriott | 5500 Hilton Ave. Baton Rouge, LA
INFO: Register HERE now!
There is a discounted room rate when you register for the Weekend to Remember.
Prices vary with military discounts and pastors and their spouses can attend for free!
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Wallpaper.
Yeah I said wallpaper!
When was the last time you thought about putting some wallpaper up to give your home a face lift? I had to see this for myself. Why? Because the only thing I remember about wallpaper is that it was a pain to get off the walls. I didn’t like it and it was messy. Well…
LifeSongs recently partnered with The Pattern Collective in Metairie. I had to go see this for myself. First off you can never miss this building. It is bright Pink and bold with a beautiful new sign. I walked in and was greeted by Brittany, the owner. She was excited to visit with me. I asked a lot of questions, the most important one was “Why Lifesongs?” I will get into her answer in a minute.
I asked about wallpaper and she blew me away with the knowledge she had. She made me a believer in WALLPAPER. The amazing designs; we are not talking yellow ducks and stripes here, we are talking beautiful art. Then I noticed the fabrics! Her designers from all over the world not only design the wallpaper but they also make fabric to ensure your home is matching and looks the best it can.
What a visit! Now to the answer that made me feel even better about meeting with Brittany. When I asked her “why LifeSongs” her reply was amazing, to say the least. She said “I listen to LifeSongs everyday!” She went on to tell me that she operates under biblical principles and never wanted to be a pushy business. She wants to give her clients the information to help them make the best decision.
You know that is an amazing way to run your business and when you see the pink building on Metairie Road stop in and say Vance sent you.
You know, the way Brittany runs her business reminds me of what Jesus did while he was here on Earth. He came to give us the information we needed to know about His Father, our Father, Heaven and Hell. He was never pushy about following Him. He showed us the facts, told us stories, and showed undeniable love – all to ensure we have the best information to make the best decision!
Jesus did this all while letting us know that we still have FREE WILL. Then He gave his life so that our sins can be forgiven. Why would He do that you might ask?
Because GOD is GOOD all the TIME!
*If you want to connect your local business or ministry with LifeSongs – contact vance@lifesongs.com or call the office at 504-816-8000.
Happy new year! It’s natural this time of year to reflect back on the previous year, and to set some intentional goals and healthy habits as we start a new year. I hope your 2024 is off to a fantastic start.
January can be tough. The holidays are over, it’s cold, and it’s still getting dark so early! Too early, even for someone like me, who loves a good early-bird dinner special. Now that the Christmas lights are put away and we’re thrust back into our routines this winter, sometimes we’ve got to find ways to combat the darkness – with light.
The sun and stars are bright, sure, but they burn their own light. The moon, on the other hand, shines in the darkness as it reflects the light of the sun. That’s how I want to be! Not shining my own spotlight, but reflecting the light of the Son of God. That Light of the World combats so much more than literal darkness. How can we be intentional about reflecting Jesus in this new year?
One way is to encourage others, and one of the ways we can do that together daily is through scripture. LifeSongs posts a daily Uplifting Word on social media each day. Would you share that with someone you know? It’s a great way to start off 2024 uplifted, and to encourage others, too. Plus, as a bonus, every time you share the LifeSongs Uplifting Word this month, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the upcoming Zach Williams concert!
As we reflect on 2023, let’s reflect God’s light and love to those around us and encourage more in 2024!
It’s Christmas, y’all! One of the great things I get to do as a part of the LifeSongs family is work hand in hand with local business owners. I love that I get to go out into the world and talk to business owners that put Jesus first!
One business that does that so well is Jocias Vintage Market in Houma. I recently took a ride out to Houma to visit with Cindy, John and their daughter. They took time out of their day to give me a tour of their marketplace. The first thing you will notice is John and Cindy greeting you as you walk in, and how truly happy they are that you are there. It’s a personal touch you don’t get from a corporate or chain store. Then you will notice the Godly messages all over the store! Yet another thing we do not see too often in big box stores. Last but not least you will see how clean the place is and how organized the merchandise is. These are all the things that you will only see and can expect from a locally owned and operated business like Jocias Vintage Market.
I loved my visit at Jocias Vintage Market. No picture will give this place the justice it deserves, and the warmth you will feel when you walk in. John and Cindy have a passion for their business, their clients and GOD. Join me in wishing them success in this holiday season.
Jocias Vintage Market is a safe fun place to go and get your Christmas shopping done. Merry Christmas! And remember, shop local, be safe and know that GOD is GOOD all the TIME!
It’s not hard to find something to be thankful for. God has given us breath in our lungs and a new day! Family, friends, jobs, homes – the list goes on and on. And yet, if I’m being honest, it’s not always praise and thanksgiving that I’m spouting. Why is it so easy to focus on what we think we’re missing vs. all that we’ve been given?
Life is crazy busy, maybe busier than it’s ever been. I think maybe that’s part of it. We’re so busy “doing,” that we feel overwhelmed – and that can lead to complaining. If we don’t keep that in check, it can become our default setting. Yikes!
Can we challenge ourselves instead to be purposeful in our gratitude? When our days feel like one big blur that leaves us exhausted, let’s thank God for the gift of today, the day He has made. When life feels hard and we’re in a season of waiting, let’s thank God for His perfect timing as He works it all out for good. Those days that feel filled with setbacks and aggravations? We can thank Him then, too. Thank Him for being present, even in the smallest of trials.
When our perspective shifts away from ourselves and onto God (who is so generous He gave up everything for us!), we can find fresh hope, beauty, joy and purpose all around us. Thank God! And thank you for joining me on this journey of thankfulness. I’m grateful you’re part of this LifeSongs family.
And if you’re thankful for God’s generosity and looking forward to celebrating the Greatest Gift ever given, be sure to join LifeSongs for your Christmas soundtrack, beginning Thanksgiving evening at 8pm. Why Christmas music? We know just how many people are searching for some comfort and joy these days. Our prayer is that those who may stumble upon LifeSongs and hear a familiar holiday tune would find the true “thrill of HOPE” in our only source, and in the reason we have to celebrate: Jesus. Please pray that they stick around, even after Christmas, to continue hearing messages of good news and great joy on LifeSongs. We have so much to be thankful for!
About a week ago Josh asked if I could write my blog for this week about my experience with the Lysa TerKeurst event, “You’re Going To Make It Tour.” The event featured Lysa TerKerst, Hope Darst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle and took place at Covenant Church in Houma. I can tell you I was very happy to go and looking forward to receiving some new wisdom. I have read quite a few books by Lysa and love the music of Hope Darst.. I had not heard about Dr. Muddamalle, but figured he was going to be great as well, considering the evening lineup.
Proverbs 16:9 “The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
I began the evening with expectations of being able to settle in and listen once we did our meet and greet with our Houma friends. The hour plus car ride flew by with Elena and I catching up and chatting. We never get to hang that much in the office, so the fellowship was long overdue and made the ride go so much faster.
We get to Covenant Church a couple of hours early and are greeted by some of the church volunteers that are helping for the event and it’s like we were part of their church family ! We had some sort of kindredness with them as they held the door open for us. Some even offering to help carry our gear in! I knew we were with “our people” when a volunteer named Christy came right up and “un-poofed “ my hair that went frizzy, thanks to the humidity on the bayou!
Elena and I spent the evening by our LifeSongs table. It was as if we were in a wedding reception receiving line: non-stop friends from Houma swinging by, telling us Hello and sharing their LifeSongs Stories.
A little side note: Houma girls have some of the best shoes I’ve ever seen! Also very curious on what hair products y’all use, cause even my extensions were out of control!
The event was packed ! I loved catching up with the Welch family; our faithful friends from Joe’s Boots in Houma. So many familiar faces that we had not seen in a while!
Next thing we know it’s almost 9:00! I didn’t get to listen to Lysa or Hope or see who Dr. Muddamalle is. I expected to receive something from the event, which I did, just not in the way I thought I would. Our Houma night encouraged Elena and I so much. So much joy with our Houma friends! They really love their LifeSongs! They even joked how they switch back and forth between the 2 frequencies of 89.1 and 89.5 to keep tuned in to LifeSongs.
I left the evening feeling so grateful to be part of the Houma family! I got to be in the company that evening with some friends that have generous hearts and I’m not just talking financially. Our Houma family that we got to hang with have an amazing spirit of joy, that’s contagious! And they live our LifeSongs tag: God is Good, All the Time!
Thank you Houma. Thank you for welcoming LifeSongs into your hearts.
Thank you for being our LifeSongs Bayou Beacon of Light!
Daniel Waghorne owns and operates Uplift Aerials out of Southeast Louisiana – and we are just getting started with his LifeSongs partnership! I (Vance) met with him recently to get his story and I was blown away.
Daniel works in the Film/TV/Movie industry, and in a big way. Basically he is the go-to guy for drone shots in Hollywood South. Uplift Aerials has done work on NCIS New Orleans and a whole lot more. You name it – Daniel was the aerial guy for it.
Your probably know that Hollywood has been on strike for some time. That brought Uplift Aerials’ business to a halt. However Daniel continues to find work, and he says it’s only because he is a Christian. People in his field call him and ask how he is surviving and he gets to say “Because of my Jesus!”
Think about that! Let’s admit it, in the film industry, Jesus is not a name that is used in the right manner too often.
Daniel Waghorne is super excited to work with LifeSongs – to be a blessing because God has blessed him. Pray for Daniel and his businesses, Uplift Aerials, that GOD continues to use him to show what faith will do for you, even when HOPE is gone.
Thank you, GOD, for putting people like Daniel into the LifeSongs family. Here is a man showing a world that has cut GOD out, that the Bible is so true. With GOD all things are possible!
WHY?
Because GOD is GOOD all the TIME!
I was shooting some baskets with my kids (Kaylee and Ben) and, well … it had been a while. I was rusty. The ball clanged off the rim over and over until finally I settled down and found my follow through. That’s the secret to nailing your shot – not just the set up, but the follow through. And that got me thinking about other things in life that take a little warming up, before you are rewarded with a SWISH instead of a CLANG…
I’ve been so impressed and so grateful for the follow through of the LifeSongs family who committed to give during our Fall Shareathon. Faith in action! You didn’t speak empty words of support, you are stepping up to the line and trusting God to provide as you follow through on your promise. It’s amazing to see. It’s powerful to be a part of this ministry family, sharing God’s Love with Southeast Louisiana and the world!
What other ways can we follow through in life? What are the things in this walk with God that take a little extra effort, but are always worth the time? For me, I guess it starts with being more intentional in my prayer time and getting up a little earlier on Sunday for Bible Study before the worship service. How about you?
Sometimes, we fall short. That’s true in life, and in Share-a-thons.
We wrapped up our recent fundraiser falling just a little short of where we hoped to be. (Just 3%!) Still, our hearts are incredibly grateful.
As for me, I fall short what feels like constantly. Example? My parenting skills. I wish my son ate more fruit/veggies. We try! And he’s a willing participant. He just doesn’t really seem to keep going. (More than 3% short on that one!)
I get frustrated in traffic. I over-schedule my days. I get stressed out by finances and overwhelmed by my circumstances. I’m simultaneously not doing enough and doing too much. You get it. I fall short. (A lot.)
When I do, I know I need more fruit in my life. And not the kind Gus needs to eat more of. I’m talking about the fruit of the Spirit. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Those things are a result of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives. Which means, I need more of Him.
Spending time with God may feel daunting when we’re already overwhelmed and tossing out unused produce. But the reality is, He’s always with us, always ready to spend time with us. It doesn’t have to be some formal, planned out event. We can spend time with God when we read His Word. We can spend time talking to God on our commute. We can listen to His voice as we’re preparing dinner or taking a walk.
LifeSongs has been a huge part of reminding me of God’s constant presence. I spend time reading His Word daily through the LifeSongs Uplifting Word emails. I spend time in prayer as I drive through those school zones. I listen for Him to speak to me through the songs I hear on my drive each day, and I get to talk to Him during that time, too. Which means YOU help me plant the seeds that lead to that good fruit in my life. Thank you for giving to support this ministry, and for helping to make those moments possible each day.
Here’s to more fruit, in our diets and in our lives!
Thanks to the over 1,100 friends who gave to this ministry during our Fall Share-a-thon. I’m Julie Headrick, General Manager of LifeSongs.
We wrapped up our Shareathon, just 3% short of the goal. LifeSongs is listener-supported, and each day we share Hope through authentic and uplifting radio during a time when that message is SO NEEDED.
And when you give – you are doing the same! Your support is still needed. You can give right now, RIGHT HERE!
This is a note from our dear friend Greg Rodgers – who listens to LifeSongs with his family, all the way across the Atlantic Ocean in England. (And as of today, he has a flight booked to come to the LifeSongs Family Reunion on September 30th!) Not only does Greg listen and rock a LifeSongs sticker on his motorcycle, but he gives too. And in his own words – here’s why:
It’s mega exciting to give so many people the great opportunity to contribute and share into such an amazing, world reaching, 24/7 ministry which CHANGES LIVES FOR JESUS…
What an amazing, wonderful privilege we, as listeners have to be able to join in with the existence of such a ministry. Wow… that’s a serious blessing for us, the listener.
Shareathon is a two-way street.
LifeSongs has blessed my family and filled the ears of my children for five years now; at home, in the car, on my motorcycle, in the tractor, on vacation, in the tent. I am grateful for every single person who is blessed by their giving to keep you guys on air to bless us all again. It is just an awesome thing.
Of course if Shareathon goes on for a LONG time then it becomes a complete pile of pants for you guys.
We will pray but it will be finished in God’s timing, not ours. When everyone our heavenly Father wants to bless for their giving has given, Shareathon will be complete.
We love all of you guys and appreciate your hard work keeping your ministry on air and always encouraging and uplifting!
THANK YOU
Greg Rodgers – England
We’ve hit the point in the year when our days are jam-packed.
I’m Julie Headrick, General Manager of LifeSongs Radio and if you’re feeling like there’s nothing left, we’ve got good news for you. Jesus is already carrying the weight of the world on His shoulders, so we don’t have to!
We may not be able to control WHAT happens, but we can choose our response to it. We can turn to God and ask for His help. And LifeSongs is here to remind you to do just that.
That reminder is available on LifeSongs to anyone struggling with feeling “at capacity,” thanks to your support of this ministry. We’re so grateful that we get to do this together. And together, we’ll kick off our LifeSongs Fall Share-a-Thon very soon. Your monthly gift or single gift makes the uplifting encouragement you hear on LifeSongs possible. And you don’t have to wait to make a difference with your support, make a gift today!
“Silenzio” is Italian for “Silence.” I chose to use the Italian version of the word to show just how romantic and exotic silence can be. It’s been said that the ...
Hi, my name is Vance Hughes, Underwriting Director for LifeSongs. I get the privilege to work with a lot of different kinds of people who are involved with LifeSongs. I ...
Jordan St. Cyr spent some time hanging on the LifeSongs Morning Show and even gave us a mini-concert! Enjoy this live recording of “Rescue” from the LifeSongs Morning Show! ...
We are so excited for the new school year … and maybe a little nervous too. We encourage everyone to sign up their school to be an official LifeSongs Prayer ...
It’s almost Fall Ya’ll! I know, we are still technically in summer, but it’s been so hot that I feel if I look forward to the next season, it might ...
PACKED. What comes to mind when you hear that word? Maybe it’s lunches and book bags. Or maybe bottled water, snacks and batteries in your hurricane kit. Or maybe you ...
The general manager of Lifesongs (Julie) and I are very alike. So similar that it makes me stare at her (hopefully in a non-creepy way) wondering how this came to ...
I love the sound of waves lapping against the sandy shore. It’s my favorite thing about any beach trip. It is one of the most peaceful sounds on planet earth, ...
Can I be real with you? When I first started on the afternoon show, I was terrified to be on-air. It’s gotten easier overtime, but it wasn’t that long ago ...
School is out for summer! And for students, the end of the school year marks the achievement of passing a grade. All the hours in class, homework, and studying has ...
I recently took my 6-year-old shopping for a toy he’d saved up for. While I was worried about how long we were taking and if the people in line behind ...
I imagine that having thorns hurts the rose as much as it hurts the person that gets pricked by it. And while the rose knows that the thorn is a ...
When people find out I work in radio, often they ask me if I ever get nervous talking to crowds of thousands (or tens of thousands) of people every day. ...
This week LifeSongs is THRILLED to welcome the newest voices of the LifeSongs family. Courtney is joining Josh on the LifeSongs Morning Show, and Libby is moving to Mid-Days so that Melanie can take you home each afternoon! All week we’re getting to know the newbies and giving you chances to WIN CONCERT TICKETS!
Please welcome these awesome women to the LifeSongs Team by sending them emails (courtney@lifesongs.com and melanie@lifesongs.com) or posting on the LifeSongs Social Media pages.
Length of Time at LifeSongs: Not NEARLY long enough but technically about 95,400 seconds and counting….
Favorite LifeSongs Concert: I have only been to one (so far) and it was the WinterJam concert in 2016. It was my son’s first concert ever so that was really special.
Favorite LifeSongs Artist: I love them all but my favorite would have to be Sanctus Real because I can get my friends who don’t like contemporary worship music to vibe out to them.
Guilty Pleasure: I’m not that guilty about my pleasures
Favorite Part of Being in the LifeSongs Family: I’m a super-fan turned team member! Like what???!!! And also that I can share with people my testimony about how God will water your seeds and dreams when you aren’t able to do it yourself.
Favorite Non-Radio Related Activities: Googling random things, organizing my Google calendar (I just really like Google), Big Brother binge watching and devising a plan to finally become a professional beach volleyball player.
One Word That Describes You: Coachable (I’m upgrading from just being teachable.)
Length of Time at LifeSongs: I’m new here! You can find me on-air weekdays from 3 – 7 pm!
Favorite LifeSongs Artist: Lauren Daigle.
Guilty Pleasure: French Pastries.
Favorite Part of Being in the LifeSongs Family: The people! We have the best staff.
Favorite Non-Radio Related Activities: Scuba diving, collecting passport stamps, and making fresh guacamole.
One Word that Describes You: Whimsical
Coach Jonathan Sochia and high school football player Levi Sochia chat with Josh on the LifeSongs Morning Show about the awesome New Orleans Homeschool Saints! This high school football program was designed for home school students and private school students without a football program, age 12-18.
Conditioning training starts soon and Summer practices are just around the corner.
Learn more on homeschoolsaints.org or like them on Facebook!
LifeSongs WISHES we could send you on an all expenses paid Senior Trip around the world … but that was not in the Shareathon budget. We can, however, celebrate the graduating Class of 2023 the way our families traditionally celebrate major milestones and accomplishments…
With chips and guac!
A Señor Trip!
Share with us (below) all about what sets your graduate apart for a chance to win the GRAND PRIZE*: A $150 gift card to the local Mexican restaurant of your choosing!
*The GRAND PRIZE drawing will be done randomly from all entries to this contest. The winner will be contacted directly by LifeSongs Radio and upon selecting their preferred restaurant, LifeSongs will then purchase the gift card (physical or digital) and send that to the winner.
- Name* First Last
- Phone Number*
- Street Address*
- City*
- State*
- ZIP Code*
- Email*
- Brag on You Grad*
- CommentsThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
With changing seasons comes change. We often like to plan for these changes and transitions. I’m sure most of us have Summer ’23 planned to boot- from summer camps to vacations. But no matter how much we plan there will ultimately always be things out of our control.
God is not bound to my space nor time and nothing and I mean nothing takes Him off guard. So, take the unexpected plans and run with them because God is already there in the midst of all of the craziness.
Happy Summer!
If you would’ve told me THIS when I was a kid, I would’ve laughed in your face and probably said you were crazy!
I’m JoJo and this is my final LifeSongs blogcast.
You can ask anyone from my childhood if they would’ve thought I’d be on the radio! And guaranteed, their answer would be ABSOLUTELY NOT! (I wouldn’t have believed it myself!)
Somehow though, God has a way of doing the impossible and making something out of nothing.
That’s exactly what He did for me.
As a person who went to school to be a hairdresser, NOT a radio personality, I honestly didn’t know how to communicate very well. (which sounds strange!) But God did what only He can. He took what was buried wayyy down deep inside of me and brought what you hear today to the surface.
He equipped me with the strength, ability, and wisdom to become who I am today, and He gave me incredible people here at LifeSongs to guide and teach me.
I walked into LifeSongs 8 years ago with only direction from the Lord and a heart for His people, and God has used me in ways I never thought imaginable.
It’s been a humbling, rewarding, and fulfilling journey, but sadly, God has said it’s now time for me to step into a new adventure of entrepreneurship. You know what this means? This isn’t the last of me, yet only the beautiful beginning!
It’s a scary, yet exciting transition that I know without a doubt that God is guiding, but my heart is really devastated to close this chapter in my life that’s meant so much to me and it’s because of YOUR welcoming arms since day 1.
You accepted a sock lovin’, taco eatin’, crazy hair coloring, Toby Mac fan girl from Da Parish and for that I am BEYOND grateful.
YOU have impacted my life in big ways, and that’s something I will cherish forever.
This isn’t goodbye, but simply I’ll taco you later, friend.
“Let’s get together, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah!” Hayley Mills performed as twins Sharon and Susan in the O.G. Parent Trap. I also love the Lindsay Lohan version, but I grew up watching the hijinks of Hayley Mills. I found myself humming that tune Friday night as we set up the LifeSongs table display at Raising Cane’s River Center.
It’s been a while since I went to a major concert like Friday’s Always Only Jesus Tour with MercyMe, Taya and (my boi) Micah Tyler. It’s been a while since I’ve been in a crowd of thousands anywhere, actually … a consequence of the global pandemic and my own natural inclination towards solitude. But there I was, with my wife Elena, plus JoJo and Jennifer, excited to experience a worshipful night together!
Being together is sort of essential for human beings. Our God-in-three-persons designed us for relationships. Our own messed up hearts try to pull away from that, thinking we are supposed to be self-sufficient, but it is truly not the blueprint for our hearts. In fact, the Bible warns us to not draw into isolation in Hebrews 10:25, “[Don’t give] up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
So I guess I just want to say “thank you” to everyone who got together with us over this blitzkrieg of concerts (three major tours in just 5 days!?). There’s going to be a lot of other fun things – other concerts, gatherings and whatnot – and I am beyond excited that we’ll do it all TOGETHER!
Darren Mulligan got up EARLY to hang out at the LifeSongs Studio and chat about The Healer Tour – TONIGHT – at the Pontchartrain Center!
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NEW DATE! NEW VENUE! AWESOME CONCERT!
Get ready for an amazing spring – Casting Crowns has extended The Healer Tour and are bringing the show to New Orleans!
Tickets are on sale now!
What: The Healer Tour featuring Casting Crowns, We Are Messengers & Ben Fuller
When: Monday, April 17th
Where: Pontchartrain Center | 4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner
Tickets: On Sale NOW!
Mark Hall, front-man for Casting Crowns, chats with Josh about The Healer Tour on the LifeSongs Morning Show! Catch up with Mark and then see him TONIGHT at The Healer Tour at the Ponchartrain Center in Kenner!
NEW DATE! NEW VENUE! AWESOME CONCERT!
Get ready for an amazing spring – Casting Crowns has extended The Healer Tour and are bringing the show to New Orleans!
Tickets are on sale now!
What: The Healer Tour featuring Casting Crowns, We Are Messengers & Ben Fuller
When: Monday, April 17th
Where: Pontchartrain Center | 4545 Williams Blvd. in Kenner
Tickets: On Sale NOW!
You know, I was brought up Catholic. And not a practicing Catholic… When I say I was brought up Catholic, I mean that is what I told people when they asked; like on doctors forms or even when I went into the Navy. It was more of just what I said. I went to Catholic school and went to church when the class went, but Sundays were reserved for fishing with my dad.
My son made me the father of two teenagers this week, he turned 13 (and my daughter is 17). It made me sit back and think: how am I doing? How are my wife and I doing as Christian parents? Are we raising them the right way? Are we teaching them Biblical principles? Are we leading by example? Are we showing the kids what it’s like to be a Christian?
I really sat with this for some time, wondering if I was doing this right. So I prayed on it, then I decided to ask my son on his birthday what it meant to him to be a Christian.
Stay tuned for his answer….
Vance III’s answer:
“For me what it means to live in a Christian family, it means that we all love each other very much. That we believe in God and Christ for what He did for our sins when He died on the cross and that we are going to celebrate him very soon coming up for Easter for dying on the cross for our sins. We already celebrated Christmas because that is Christ’s birthday.”
Well there you have it. He gets it and understands. I know without God leading this family we would have some concerns. But with God in charge we can’t miss! Why? Because God is Good all the Time!
It’s always great to hang with a Smallbone! Joel of FOR KING & COUNTRY Zoomed into the LifeSongs Morning Show to prep us for tomorrow night’s WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR Tour in Biloxi!
FOR KING & COUNTRY return to the Gulf South with the What Are We Waiting For Tour Part II! April 13th – Mississippi Coast Coliseum! Tickets are on sale now!
WHAT: What Are We Waiting For Tour Part II
WHO: FOR KING & COUNTRY
WHEN: Thursday, April 13, 2023 | 7:00 PM
WHERE: Mississippi Coast Coliseum | 2350 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS 39531
INFO: CLICK HERE for tickets today!
I recently had the privilege of visiting Israel. I cannot think of a better way to kick off the New Year than being literally where Jesus walked.
I had many sites that I enjoyed like the Wailing Wall and the Upper Room, but for me, there is something very special about the Garden of Gethsemane. I felt this the first time I visited Israel and again this time. Gethsemane is the place Jesus prayed before enduring the cross. For each site there was a devotional. A young man led us in a devotional there and highlighted this verse:
“He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:39 (NKJV)
I don’t always like to do the hard stuff, but sometimes that is exactly what God is calling us to do. The very thing we don’t want to do. The route that takes longer. As we celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior this weekend let us remember even Jesus said not my will but yours Lord. Let us each have that level of obedience to follow God even when we do not feel like it.
I am a planner. I like a routine and knowing what to expect. But I’ve worked at LifeSongs for 25 years now and been a part of approximately 50 Share-a-thons and not one of them has been the same or predictable in any way.
I love data. Math is my love language. And no matter how much data input and analyzing I do, the Share-a-thon math is not mathing. There is no pattern to be seen. There is no figuring out which hour is going to be great or which day is going to be slow. It’s always a little nerve wracking. But we just have to prepare as much as we can and trust that God is going to provide through you, our listeners. And He always does. And YOU always do.
This Spring Share-a-thon, I was even more nervous than usual. Over the past couple of years our LifeSongs team has gotten smaller and smaller. This is the smallest staff we’ve ever had heading into a Share-a-thon in decades. There were some shifts when there was only one person answering phones and other shifts when one sick person was on the air alone, because their co-host was home with a sick child. But even short on staff and what felt like running on fumes, God provided everything!
Similarly, we also noticed that there are less of you who are doing more. You who give monthly are also giving single gifts. You who had already given once, called back and gave again. We know it’s not easy to carry a heavier load and we thank you for stepping up and ensuring that this ministry is provided for. God provided everything, through YOU!
If you are not currently giving to LifeSongs, we are always in need of financial support. You can give now at https://lifesongs.denarionline.com/Donate?shareathon=202109shw
Sometimes life looks like skimming your pool of tree tassels while the wind is blowing and more of the pollen producing structures keep falling even after you’ve scoop them all up.
It’s like a constant flow of using the net to get them out of the pool and as soon as you get those out, more keep falling into it!
Like you can’t catch a break!
In case you didn’t know, there is a giant oak tree in the back of my yard. It’s so tall that it towers over our back fence and pool.
So naturally, leaves are always falling in it. (Hence my blog from January!)
What’s falling from it this time is called catkins or tassels. They look like stringy, brown worms.
They release pollen into the wind which in turn covers our cars from front to back with a nice coating of yellow dust!
While a lot of the country is dealing with snowstorms, New Orleans residents are covered in pollen!
I saw a meme that says “It doesn’t snow in the south, it pollens!” (I’ve never heard anything more accurate!)
While we are focused on going through car washes to get the pollen off of our cars and out of our pools, it can feel like a never ending task.
Like why even bother trying to remove it?
It’s just going to come back the next day, and I’ll have to do the work to remove it all over again.
Life feels this way.
It feels like as soon as you take 2 steps forward something happens again in life pushing you even more steps back.
It gets to be mundane and really frustrating.
You toil trying to remove all the bad things from your heart and life, but the trees around you keep dumping their pollen leaves on you and before you know it, you’ve given up because it’s too much to keep up with.
Friend, it’s your job to do what the Lord has called you to. It’s God’s job to do the rest.
Only He can quiet the storm.
Only He can silence the winds and waves.
Only He can change the seasons.
Do what you can with the resources God has given you, but leave the rest up to the Lord.
He can part the sea, slay giants, and move mountains, but he wants YOU to be the vessel He uses!
Sometimes life looks discouraging because you are tired of scooping tassels out of the pool, but God is bringing you into the next new season so hold on.
Spring is coming……
And so is the LifeSongs Spring Fundraiser!
You don’t have to wait until next week to be part of the giving family. You can do so right now at lifesongs.com!
Do you have a daily routine? I’m a creature of habit. From big things to small ones. I mean, it’s like muscle memory, turning down the roads that lead me to my daily stops (work, school, home, Domino’s…). But when those roads are closed or the carpool line changes or the parking lot at work is being reworked, I am shook. (Is that a thing “the kids” say still?) Seriously, it takes me a really long time to adjust. Re-routing takes a LOT of getting used to. I guess I’m on “auto-pilot” much more than I realize.
I feel like I’ve had lots of opportunities to be more adaptable lately, with changes continually shaking up the familiar and comfortable. And while I can’t say I’ve “enjoyed” those curveballs, I can choose to look at them as something God is doing, and trust Him in the process. He IS in control, after all. I mean, if I can trust my GPS to re-route me when needed around the torn up parking lot, I can DEFINITELY trust the ultimate Navigator to lead me in the right direction, right?!
And His timing is perfect. The 40 days of Lent have begun, and this can already be such a special time to be reminded of God’s sacrificial love for us. It’s time to intentionally create space by shifting gears out of auto-pilot into a new routine, habit or discipline and focus on and appreciate what is always there: our HOPE in Christ.
Thank you, by the way, for supporting this ministry and helping LifeSongs share that message of hope every day (and on every route).
The LifeSongs Family is growing and we’d love to have you join the good work of sharing God’s Love with Southeast Louisiana, Southern Mississippi and the World! Experience is a plus, but we are also excited to show you the ropes!
JOB OPENINGS
DONOR RELATIONS/OFFICE ASSISTANT
LifeSongs has a passionate team that loves God and desires to share God’s love with our community. Sound like you? We are looking for someone to join our team to maintain and strengthen relationships with our listeners and donors by assisting with front office and donor relations.
Responsibilities include communicating with listeners/donors via phone, email, text and in person, assisting in listener giving (including processing and tracking payments, direct mailing, etc.), serving as a receptionist, coordinating volunteers, and assisting with other in-office needs.
This is a part time, in-office position with a specific need for weekday afternoon availability.
To apply for this position, please CLICK HERE.
Best qualified applicants will have:
– previous office work experience
– excellent written and verbal communication skills
– computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
– excellent time management and organizational skills
ON-AIR HOST/CONTENT CREATOR
Do you have a relatable personality and the gift of connecting with others in an authentic way? LifeSongs wants to hear from you! We are looking to add an on-air host and content creator to our team. This is a part-time position. Responsibilities include engaging with listeners by creating and sharing content consistent with the LifeSongs mission on social media and on the air.
If you have a passion to make a difference in this community and share God’s love in a relevant and meaningful way on the air, in person and online, CLICK HERE to apply.
Best qualified applicants will have:
– strong social media background and skills
– proficiency with marketing and branding techniques
– the ability to effectively reach people on social outlets, expand the scope and reach of digital platforms, and connect users to the LifeSongs brand
– prior experience in audio production, studio familiarity and voice talent
“I wish the world would stop so I could catch up!” The words my 17 year old son said to me after he returned from a recent retreat with his high school senior class. The trip was a very reflective time for him as he is about to embark on his next phase in life, off to college . He has some decisions still to make, where is he going, what is he studying and he is nervous about making the wrong decision.
It hurts my momma’s heart to think that he is so overwhelmed. I get that feeling too sometimes, where you think about things so much, or decisions that have to be made and you end up with “analysis paralysis”, and not wanting to make a decision at all!
I can be overwhelmed by family issues, work, school, finances and commitments, often all at the same time. What’s hard is that these seasons seem unavoidable, and I’m left with little choice but to plow through if I hope to receive a harvest.
In seasons of overwhelm, my sinful nature becomes evident. Everything is so cloudy that I can’t see Jesus. I get impatient and snappy with my family. I try to cut corners and slack on my responsibilities instead of doing what I said I would do because I feel justified by my excuses. I often walk out of step with the Holy Spirit. I am not loving, kind, gentle, self-controlled, peaceful, joyful, patient or faithful.
In times when I am broken down and tired I need grace. I need to experience God’s grace, be strengthened by God’s grace, and be motivated by God’s grace. But I have to go to the throne to get grace!
“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most” (Hebrews 4:14-16, NLT).
It’s encouraging to me that Jesus can sympathize with my weaknesses. Jesus, too, is familiar with being broken down and tired. He knows how it feels to be tempted to sin, but didn’t. As a result, I have a holy High Priest who beckons me near to the throne of grace despite the foolishness of my life. Because I am forgiven in Jesus, there is grace for me! I can go to God with full confidence that He will not condemn me for all the ways I feel like I failed in the midst of my overwhelm.
I feel overwhelmed and tired, but God is able!
I feel like I’m going to snap, but God rescues!
I feel like I’m out here in these streets all by myself, but God is my friend!
I wish I could tell my son that his feelings are temporary and that this time of feeling overwhelmed will pass. Unfortunately, from here on, his life will be filled with seasons of ups and downs. My prayer for Him is that he will learn to grow to receive God’s Grace to get him through!
2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (ESV)
When the going gets tough, do you cut and run? My wife (Elena) and I joke about how if we won a billion dollars, we could just disappear. I think at one point she started planning our family bug-out bags. It’s a panic-reaction to stress; fight or flight.
Life can be hard and sad and frustrating. Responsibilities and bills and monotony and disappointments and middle age…
Here’s the thing about being a Christian… This life isn’t about us anymore. The very first sentence in Pastor Rick Warren’s bestseller The Purpose Driven Life is, “It’s not about you.” God called us to serve His Kingdom and we can trust Him to take care of us, no matter what problems we face in this world.
Being a Christian is hard sometimes. Jesus warned us in John 16, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” But we don’t always act like that is true – that Jesus has “overcome the world.”
When Christians bail (hey, that’s the name of this blog!) on our responsibilities (which include: to love and care for the broken, be a light in the darkness, the city on a hill and the salt of the Earth) it isn’t just our own lives we are diminishing, it’s us failing the Kingdom of God.
But faith isn’t about pulling ourselves up by our own bootstraps – it’s about God’s Spirit enabling and equipping us to take on the challenges of the journey. There will be times when that journey feels exciting and fresh and then times when it feels like God has forgotten us.
But He hasn’t. Nothing can keep you from His Love (Romans 8:38-39). So don’t bail on The Calling when life gets hard. Shine brighter! Pray deeper. Worship honestly. Or like Anna of Arendelle says, “Do the next right thing.”
To all my brothers and sisters who daily take up their cross and keep doing the next right thing – THANK YOU. Thank you for your service to God’s Kingdom. Thank you for demonstrating to others how it’s done.
*Below is a picture of Christian Bale since I used his name as a pun.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Christian Bale (@christianbale_)
**Also, sorry for not writing about love or whatever since it is Valentine’s Day. I really don’t care for this holiday. Do you know when the last time I got flowers was? Never. Guys like flowers too. Stupid Valentine’s.
Here at LifeSongs Radio, we say “God is good all the time.” And movies like God’s Not Dead say things like, “God is good all the time and all the time God is good.”
These are great sayings and the words could not be more true.
I know this to be true because of the words in the Bible and all of the amazing songs we play on LifeSongs. But I have to admit I sometimes have a hard time believing the words “God is good” when life gets tough.
When unforeseen circumstances happen in my life.
When I witness tragedy after tragedy.
I find my praises to God going from “God you are so good” to questioning “God, are you good?”
I’m a thinker and I have always asked “why?”
Answers to my many questions will most likely never go answered, but in the midst of my questions, my hurting, and how I may perceive things-my God is good.
Matthew 5:45 (NLT) says, “In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike.”
Just because we live a life for Christ does not mean we will be free from burdens, free from pain, or free from brokenness.
But the wonderful thing about the goodness of God is that He promises to be with us in the midst of the storms of life.
And man oh man, does that make Him so so good!
The beauty and peace of walking with God is that He never leaves us nor forsakes us.
Today, be uplifted. Fix your eyes on Jesus instead of the issues of life and recognize in the midst of rain and unexpected circumstances that God is with you and wants to be your JOY through your trial.
Cling to him, trust Him, and never let your circumstances change your perspective of how good our Heavenly Father truly is!
I’m off to a slow start this year after testing positive for Covid on New Year’s Eve. And it may seem like it’s too late to start something new, but we’re only 3 weeks into the 52 weeks we have this year! And these resolutions are something to work toward this year, not something to perfect from the start.
The past couple of years I’ve been trying to think about New Year’s resolutions a little differently. I answer these questions and then make my New Year’s resolutions based on the answers:
How can I treat myself better?
How can I bring myself peace?
How can I bring joy to the people I love?
At the beginning of last year, I made a resolution to treat myself better by “asking for help.” It is definitely an ongoing process, but I am getting better at it! That is one resolution that I will carry over into this year. In 2022, I also began meditating and going to counseling to bring myself peace. Both of those things have been so helpful to me and I will continue them in 2023.
What about you? How can you treat yourself better this year? How can you bring yourself peace? How can you bring joy to the people you love? Share with me via email – julie@lifesongs.com.
And if your resolutions involve getting fit, check out LifeSongs.com/GetFitBit for your chance to win a Fit Bit from LifeSongs!
The weather across the US has been quite kooky lately.
From floods in Cali, to snow storms in NY.
Here in Southeast Louisiana, we are used to it being spring (or summer) temperatures one day and winter the next.
Sometimes, all 4 seasons happen in one day! (Believe it or not, that’s not unusual!)
The last storm that blew through our area swirled so many leaves in my yard.
We do have a bunch of trees along our back fence line, but piles and piles were dumped in the yard and surrounded my pool.
Thankfully, the day I decided to rake them up was a beautiful day full of sunshine so I didn’t mind getting outside to soak up all the Vitamin D!
Raking them was a lot of hard work! (Plus, I didn’t even get to finish because the rake broke!)
One thing that hit my heart when my hands were sore and blistered up, and my back was in pain is that seasons and cycles don’t just happen externally in the world around us, but internally.
Whether intentionally or by accident, there are “trees” in our lives that get planted, watered, grow, and produce fruit. It can be a harvest you expected or unexpected fruit you weren’t planning for. But there comes a time when the leaves that once were vibrantly colored emerald, fall off and hit the ground waiting to be raked up to make room for the new cycle of life to take place.
Friend, allow this new year to change your life.
It’s time to rake up the dead things that maybe worked in the past but aren’t working now.
It’s time to make room for the fresh, unique things God is doing in your business, faith, and marriage.
So grab that rake and begin the process! (And yes! It’s hard work, but worth it!)
Out with the old mindset, temperament, and things that so easily trip you up, and in with the mind, attitude, and perspective of Christ.
It’s totally ok to mourn the process of removing the decaying, dead leaves, but then rejoice and dance because you know that God not only gives life and life more abundantly, but He makes all things new!
Ezekiel 17:24
“‘And all the trees will know that it is I, the Lord, who cuts the tall tree down and makes the short tree grow tall. It is I who makes the green tree wither and gives the dead tree new life. I, the Lord, have spoken, and I will do what I said!’”
I was shoving the last handful of red and green holiday M&Ms into my mouth when I received an email notice that my gym is officially closing. Mind you, I have not stepped foot in this gym since maybe November 2019, but still. It’s officially now no longer an option – much like those seasonal mint M&Ms. Great. How am I supposed to get healthy now?!
The good news is, it only takes a little bit to get fit. It can be as simple as making a small adjustment here and there to create a healthy habit. How does LifeSongs fit into your routine this year? Join us as we start this new year with some healthy habits – like regularly listening to LifeSongs for doses of hope! Download the FREE LifeSongs app, and take us with you – as you focus on getting fit physically, we’ll help with the spiritual encouragement along the way! Maybe “getting fit” looks like exercising more or drinking more water (or putting down those M&Ms), or maybe it looks like taking a few deep breaths, writing in a gratitude journal, or starting your day in scripture with the LifeSongs Uplifting Word email.
Would you join us? Let’s kick off this year with some healthy habits, like listening to LifeSongs each day! Not only are we starting 2023 with health, hope and encouragement together, but you could also win a Fit Bit and hang with Lauren Daigle at an upcoming exclusive live event! Click here to get started! And keep listening to LifeSongs to hear encouragement on your journey to get fit, try healthy habits and start the new year UPLIFTED!
So many things are going on at this time of year! Do you remember your parents telling you about how fast time flies and it goes faster as you get older?
I heard this phrase recently “ I wish you could know you are in the good old days before you left them!” These words ring true no matter what season of life you are in.
This Christmas season is a little different for me, my daughter doesn’t live at home anymore and my son is now looking at going away to college. I find myself so reflective and thinking of those crazy busy times when the kids were younger. You know all of the school programs and “Angel
Tree” parties and kid-centered events that happen at Christmas time. When I was in the midst of all of the busyness, I loved it, but it was also another “to do”. I often felt like I just wanted to say no to some events so as a family, we could just slow down and embrace the season of Christmas.
Well now, I’m slowed down and I’m missing the busyness! I miss the school Christmas programs and the Girl Scout cookie parties, along with kids’ church PJs and hot chocolate fun nights! I miss cuddling my little ones and reading the Christmas Story to them as they are in their onesie pajamas.
I know I’ll have to let my kids go and reset my Christmas Season expectations as they journey into adulthood. But I also know we have had the best days and my kids so sweetly remind me of the traditions they will carry on. They even promise they’ll let me read the Christmas Story to their kids! (I promise I didn’t guilt them into it!)
I hope this year, especially as we are more like we used to be(pre-pandemic), you soak in every moment and smell and sounds and etch the memories, no matter where you are in life!
Christmas Season is an amazing reminder that we are living in the best days. We get to celebrate the greatest gift of a sweet baby as a promise to save the world! Imagine Mary soaking in that memory as she held our savior in a manger! My favorite Christmas song is Oh Holy Night. No matter the version or who sings it, it gets me, the lyrics speak to the heart and meaning of this time of year.
O Holy Night
The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth
Long lay the world in sin and e’er pining ‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees O hear the angels voices. O night divine O night when Christ was born O night divine, O night, O night divine.
Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming, With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand. So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming, Here came the wise men from Orient land. The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger; In all our trials born to be our friend.
He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger, Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend! Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace. Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother; And in His name all oppression shall cease. Sweet hymns of joy in grateful raise we, Let all within us praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever, His power and glory evermore proclaim. O night divine, O night, O night divine.
I don’t want to be warm, I want to be on fire. Let me explain…
Does your office or home get stupid cold in the Winter? I swear it feels like the AC is running in the LifeSongs office even when it’s 40 degrees outside. For that reason most of us wear sweatshirts every day or have blankets at our desks – and the boss (Julie) actually has a small heater that she keeps running under her computer desk.
If you enter Julie’s office it’s like walking into a vision quest hut in the desert. There are ambient lamps, essential oils float through the air and it is a good 15 degrees warmer than anywhere else in the building. It’s calming. It’s peaceful. And most of all, it is ALWAYS warm. It’s where we retreat to when we can’t feel our fingers – which is very frustrating to Julie because she is also extremely busy and doesn’t have time for us to visit her sweat lodge.
Being warmed up is a beautiful thing. A cup of hot chocolate during the Winter – the perfect blanket on the couch – heated seats in your car – a fireplace crackling… it all just feels luxurious and comfortable. But warm isn’t exactly a good thing for a follower of Jesus. In fact, Jesus used the metaphor of being hot, cold or lukewarm for God’s Kingdom and the most offensive to God was being warm. (Revelation 3:15-17)
A warm Christian is comfortable. They aren’t passionate or, on the other end of the spectrum, against the cause – they are simply taking up space. I think a Christian simmers down to a comfy warmth when their focus becomes safety and satisfaction instead of Loving and proving their Love through generous acts and compassion. (James 2)
I’m guilty of being a warm Christian. I crave comfort and safety and familiarity. So much of my lived-out faith becomes about me, me, me instead of Him, Him, HIM! Thankfully, there’s Grace. And the Holy Spirit pushing and gnawing at my heart to step up, out of the selfish, comfy warmth and into a Fire that is all consuming.
Prayer works!
The family and I went to Tennessee this past Thanksgiving to visit my wife’s brother and his family. They have a small cabin in the woods on the side of a mountain overlooking a beautiful lake – it is so beautiful!
The journey began Tuesday night right after LifeSongs Skate Night. My wife was home with the kids packing up and getting us ready to leave for our ten-hour drive. (I love driving at night with my family asleep and no one on the road.) We wrapped up skate night and I drove the LifeSongs mobile back to the station. Then I jumped in my truck headed home, and loaded her up – Packed the kids in the back seat with blankets and pillows and the wife in the passenger seat with much of the same.
We had drinks at the ready and snacks for days. We were ready to roll out and begin our adventure!
I drove all night and into the morning, enjoying the views from the deer on the side of the road to the mountains and the beautiful GOD-painted canvas all around me. As we turned down the road leading to the cabin I woke up my family and they were so excited. My goal was to catch a few Z’s and then spend time with everyone but that did not happen. I decided to stay up and just hang out.
As the day came to a close it was time for me to turn in and boy was I tired. I reached in my bag for my CPAP machine only to find that there was no mask for me to sleep with. I was beside myself! I was so tired yet I did not have the equipment I needed to get any sleep. I was so upset. The smallest thing was looked over and missed, not due to anyone’s fault, it was just missing.
The next day was Thanksgiving and there was no way anyone was going to be open for me to even buy a mask. I was not going to be able to stay there and not sleep for 4 days. I told the wife to get a good night’s sleep and that we are going to have to leave the next day. She said pray! I said, “I will pray but there is no way prayer is going to open a store on Thanksgiving.” The night was so long that I would sleep for 20 min at a time and wake up in a panic from not breathing.
Daylight started to creep in and the wife woke up and started calling places around the area. To my expectations, all she got was answering services. We started the day cooking, well warming up food, and she kept praying!
Then GOD answered her prayer and showed me that no prayer goes unheard!
Brandye got a phone call from a weird number and on the other end was a guy who happened to listen to the message that she had left. He said, come to my store I will meet you there and sell you a mask.”
I almost fell out! GOD answered Brandye’s prayer – I was in shock. Here was a guy taking time away from his family on Thanksgiving to help me out! That has to be GOD! We jumped in the truck, drove an hour away, and got my mask.
I ate Thanksgiving dinner and dove into the bed strapped on my new mask and slept like a baby for about 5 hours. I woke up and enjoyed the rest of the trip with my family.
I will never doubt the power of prayer again and always count on God. Why you might ask…..Because God is Good all the Time!
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