Singing it out

As many of you know, music is a huge part of my life. I really like finding and listening to songs with lyrics that express how I'm feeling at the moment. In addition to listening to songs, I love singing the songs with lyrics that resonate with my mood, that have put into words the thoughts I couldn't organize. Sometimes, belting a song at the top of my lungs just lifts the weight off my shoulders and gives me a freeing feeling. With all that being said, I recorded a handful of praise and worship songs yesterday with Matt Brenner at St. John's. This was therapeutic for me for several reasons: I was in my favorite chapel, I got to sing till I almost had no voice (after having sang at vigil choir, reunion, noon choir and 5pm choir), the songs had lyrics that are close to my heart right now, and now I have recordings of those songs (which I haven't managed to find anywhere else). Among the songs that were recorded was the NFK91 blessing song. I was on music team for that retreat and helped write that song and I swear, it's as if my past self was writing these lyrics for my present self:

When we need forgiveness, we fall on our knees

We trust in your love and your mercy

When we’re lost and alone, we fall on our knees

We pray for your guidance and help

We fall on our knees in humble adoration

We praise you for the wonder of the cross

Though our minds may not comprehend your will

We have faith to follow in your path

May God take our suffering and all of our prayer

And send down his blessings upon you

That you might know His ways and be filled with His grace

Be strengthened to glorify His name

Isn't it amazing how God intertwines our life stories like this? Anyway, I am listing the songs we recorded below and if you would like a copy for your own listening pleasure (pleasure is loosely used here- they aren't the most polished of recordings), feel free to either leave a comment here saying which ones you want or you can email me your selection.

I offer my life

I give you my heart

Job's song

Lord I want to know you more

Hungry

Jesus, all for Jesus

In your hands

Jesus lover of my soul