I Am
Why this song?
It seems like every week I see a new study that talks about how, in an age where we are more connected than ever, people are feeling isolated and lonely.
Running groups, mom groups, craft groups, you name it. People are looking to make connections and stave off their feelings of loneliness. It’s even a big reason than many people join churches.
But when we sit alone and the devil is tempting us to despair because even though we are connected to all these people, we still feel alone, God tells us this comforting truth: I am holding on to you.
Song Breakdown
The first verse describes the love of God seeking us out and finding us when we feel alone. When that love hits us, it overwhelms us, as described in the following verses.
One line in the bridge sticks out to me: “This is why it’s to you I run.” It brings to mind the verse from 1 John: “We love because he first loved us.”
Use in Worship
This is an easy song for those looking to lead worship with a guitar. It’s in the beginner-friendly key of G and uses an intuitive strumming pattern. The melody is also straightforward and catchy.
In worship, we receive spiritual rest by being reminded of God’s promises to us. This promise, to be with us, is one that can be repeated every week. The song fits in a wide variety of contexts.
Resources
O Holy Night
Why this song?
Why suggest one of the most famous and popular Christmas songs of all time?
First of all, I find this song doesn’t show up in many hymnals, so many congregations may have to look elsewhere for resources for it. I wanted to provide those resources (the lead sheet for this song is free).
Secondly, it’s a song that can be performed in a number of different styles and arrangements and I wanted to share one of my favorite versions by Josh Garrels.
Song Breakdown
A few years ago, the Christmas Eve sermon at Illumine centered around a phrase from the first verse: “Till he appeared and the soul felt its worth.” That’s this song in a nutshell.
The song, both lyrically and musically, does an excellent job of capturing the broad range of emotions associated with the birth of Christ. There are quiet contemplative moments and there are massive joyful moments.
When we fully understand and appreciate what happened when Christ came to earth, we can’t help but (as the chorus says) fall on our knees. Out of shame. Out of joy. Out of sorrow. Out of thankfulness.
Use in Worship
Admittedly, this song has a fairly narrow range of uses. While you could certainly try to use it sometime other than Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, it would certainly be a little strange.
While it may lack in occasions for use, it does not lack in arrangements. We have provided the free lead sheet that Illumine uses when performing it, but the lead sheet does not limit the different styles and instrumentations you can use.
Resources
