I'M FINE WITH GOD...IT'S CHRISTIANS I CAN'T STAND

     I liked this book from the moment I read the title.  I'M FINE WITH GOD...IT'S CHRISTIANS I CAN'T STAND was published in 2008 by Harvest House Publishers.  It is written by Bruce Bickel (an attorney) and Stan Jantz (a marketing consultant) both of whom are believers.  "Every segment of society has its members of the lunatic fringe.  But Christianity seems to have a disproportionately high percentage of them."  This quote sets the tone for this particular book which is a critique of Christians who hold extreme views of one form or another. 
     The authors have a real problem with paranoid Christians, that is, those Christians who only listen to Christian music, only read Christian books, and probably homeschool.  They avoid contact with the world if possible.  This makes fulfilling the Great Commission impossible-that is, going into all the world and making disciples of all men.  The authors also have a problem with Christians who think science is the enemy of God and that most scientists are trying to disprove God.  They rightly point out that to be a Christian you should not have to believe that creation took place over six literal 24 hour days, or that the earth is a certain age.  In addition, they point out that Christians have added to the fundamentals of the faith.  No longer is it enough to believe that the Scriptures are inspired by God and inerrant, you also have to take all of the Bible literally, including the imagery used in the prophetic visions. 
     Bickel and Jantz do a good job of debunking the prosperity gospel, mainly by using the life of Jesus Christ as an example.  Christians are not all meant to be rich and live trouble free lives!  Those who fixate on the end of the world and just when that will be are another target in this book.  Rather than focusing on the end of all time as we know it, we should make the most of the opportunites we have in this lifetime to be a postive influence.   Christians who make terrible movies that are subpar to their mainstream counterparts are not given a pass in this book either.  Christian media should be just as good or better than secular fare, otherwise the world will write it off immediately. 
     Christians who don't study their Bibles, as well as those who only have knowledge about God without having a relationship with Him are also put under the microscope.  The authors spend a great deal of time writing about interacting with non-believers and those of other faiths.  It is time we stop seeing these folks as our enemies, the authors believe.  We need to learn to love all people and be ready to give a reason for our hope (that being Christ) when people ask us, rather than preaching at them.
     This is an important book for Christians to read.  I recommend it to those who love God, but find it hard dealing with their Christian brothers and sisters because of their quirks and quarks.  The Christian community could stand for the kind of thoughtful examination spelled out in this book.  This book also helps separate the fundamentals of the faith from our add-ons and subtractions over the years.  Thanks to Heather Wight for lending me this book.
    

HAWK NELSON IS CRAZY IN LOVE

     Hawk Nelson has gained the reputation of being a party band over the years, as was seen by their performance in 'Yours, Mine and Ours' starring Dennis Quaid and Rene Russo.  Their pop, punk, and rock sounds will appeal to fans of Relient K, MxPx, and Simple Plan.
     On CRAZY LOVE (2011, BEC Recordings) their fifth studio album, the boys share more deeply about their faith lyrically, without sacrificing their fun sound.  On 'Your Love is a Mystery' they sing: "God I messed it up again/I seem to do this all the time/Can You forgive me once again, or have I finally crossed the line?"  And later: "You know my faults/You know my wrongs and You still love me."  'Skeleton' reminds us that our secret sins will find us out, and only the truth will set us free.  'Done Holding On' is a song of surrender to God: "I'm giving up my secrets/I'm giving up my faults/Telling You I'm empty/Should have known all along...The Son has come/I wanna be free."
     The title track 'Crazy Love' was inspired by Francis Chan's book of the same name.  The song begins: "We're the ones who believe in the things unseen" and continues: "They say it sounds insane/We say we've been changed/By the power of crazy love/This world looks at us like we're ridiculous/Baby, it's all because of crazy love."  'My Next Breath' is a pretty ballad of acknowledgment: "I know that I am loved/Cuz You bought me with Your blood/I need You/I need You more than my next breath."

     'Joanna' is a relationship song that asks some familiar questions: "Should I call or should I run?/Turn around or just move on?/Either choice I make I'm scared will still be wrong."  The album, produced by Ian Eskelin, ends with 'Thanks for the Beautiful Memories', a song of gratitude to God for all the success they've had as a band.  I'm giving CRAZY LOVE a 78%.

     The deluxe edition of CRAZY LOVE comes with THE LIGHT SIDES (ACOUSTIC), an eleven song sampling of the band's earlier works presented in a more mellow fashion.  'California' is a fun song, with Beach Boys style harmonies and this neat play on words: "We'll never get bored cuz we can go boarding."  '36 Days' is about being on tour away from close family and uses harmonica.

     'You Have What I Need' sounds like a stripped down Billy Talent.  It speaks to the fact that you have to give yourself away to truly live.  'Everything You've Ever Wanted" is a moving ballad about a kid realizing that his broken family is not his fault.  'First Time' comes across like a Great Big Sea tune.  'Head On Collision' features 'Na na na na' gang vocals.  'Take Me' is a beautiful ballad about a longing to be loved and cared for: "Please help me get from worse to better/Before these tears soak through this lonely sweater."  I'm giving THE LIGHT SIDES (ACOUSTIC), produced by Steve Wilson, a 73%.

PETRA GOES BACK TO THE ROCK

     That's right folks!  Petra is back and this time they're going as CLASSIC PETRA.  BACK TO THE ROCK (2010)  is a noteworthy release for several reasons.  It marks the first time in 24 years that Greg Volz handles all the lead vocals.  He largely helped propel the band to fame from 1981 to 1986.  It also sees the return of long-time beloved and once dismissed drummer Louie Weaver.  Other band members on this project are Mark Kelly (bass), John Lawry (keyboards), and founder Bob Hartman on guitar.  BACK TO THE ROCK is being used to re-introduce Petra to the stage again.  International dates are set to begin this Spring, and stops at this summer's Cornerstone and Kingdom Bound festivals are already planned.  This tour will give many of us John Schlitt era fans the opportunity to see the Volz fronted version of our favourite band live for the first time.
     BACK TO THE ROCK consists of ten remade Petra classics and 2 new songs.  Bob Hartman's signature rock guitar work and solos standout throughout this album.  Fans of previous projects such as WAKE UP CALL and JEKYLL AND HYDE will appreciate this.  Hartman is one of CCM's best guitarists.  Of the remakes, three of my favourites are 'Angel of Light', 'Godpleaser', and 'Adonai'.  They are full of energy and spiritual passion, as well as encouragement to live the Christian life.  'Rose Colored Stained Glass Windows' looks at the state of the church: "Another sleepy Sunday safe within the walls/Outside a dying world in desperation calls/But no one hears the cries or knows what they're about/The doors are locked within, or is it from without?"
     What of the 2 new tracks?  'Back to the Rock' is a reworking of the song 'The Rock' from Greg Volz's 2009 GOD ONLY KNOWS solo project.  It reminds us we ought build our lives upon a firm spiritual foundation so we have staying power when we face the storms of life.  'Too Big to Fail' speaks of God being all powerful: "He stretched forth the heavens and He laid the foundations of the earth/All glory and honor and praise/To the One who lives and reigns." 
     Two more CD's are planned already, with the third said to be all new material.  It truly is a blessed time to be a Pethead!  For more info visit http://www.classicpetra.com/ or http://www.thepetrazone.net/.

SMITTY'S WONDERFUL ALBUM

     Michael W. Smith is one of the trailblazing male vocalists of Contemporary Christian Music.  Musically, his latest offering WONDER (2010, Reunion Records) will appeal more to his long time fans who have aged with him, more than to a teen audience.  There are some standout pop numbers here, but they tend to be of the lighter fare.
     Looking at the lyrics, the album could just as well have been called HOPE.  'I'll Wait for You' is about those times when God doesn't seem quite as close to us: "Now I lie awake at night/Tryin' not to think/But these are the hardest times I've ever seen/I'm still holdin' on."  'One More Time' picks up the theme: "When your destiny is out there in the distance/But the road ahead's a mine field in disguise/And you keep on moving/You just keep on moving/You will make it through this."  'Rise', a song that could just as well have been penned by Robert H. Schuller or Joel Osteen, nails home the point: "Stand upon the waves/And walk with me/Journey through the door/Come see what I can see/All the reasons we were made/Who we were meant to be/Rise, He's calling you to go."
     The other two themes on the record are a love for God, and a love for his wife Debbie.  'Take my Breath Away' finds him in awe of God: "See me, all I am/These empty hands/Are all I can give/That You would die so I'd live/Your sacrifice I can't believe/You fascinate."  'Take me Over' is a piano ballad: "With just a glimpse of Your face/All my fears melt away/Lost within Your embrace/I'm pouring out all my admiration/Jesus, Jesus/Take me over now/I surrender/Everything I have, I lay it down/All of me."
     Michael whispers 'sweet nothings' to his wife on 'Forever Yours': "Come walz with me through the twilight/And we will dance as seasons pass/We move together."  On 'You Belong to Me', he sings: "Oh girl, you are more than beautiful/How can it be that you belong to me." 
     WONDER is one of Smitty's stronger albums of late.  It is a seasoned, mature effort.  I'm giving it an 85%.

LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS

     Nick Vujicic was born without arms and legs.  What would you do in that situation?  In his book LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS (2010, Doubleday), Nick reveals his reaction and so much more.  Before I say anything else, let me say that I found this book very challenging.  It could take a lifetime putting some of the lessons into practice to master them. 
     Much like televangelist Robert H. Schuller, Nick believes you must believe in yourself.  You must believe God has a wonderful plan for your life.  You were created for a purpose.  No matter how bleak your situation may look and no matter how cruddy your circumstances may be, you can have a bright future.  This alone is a hard concept for me to grasp with my anxiety and depression issues sometimes.  I do believe it though. Nick is onto something here.  When things look hopeless or when times are particularly tough, we must keep pressing on.  One thing Nick encourages readers to do is to have an attitude of gratitude. Be thankful for the things you do have.  Eagerly anticipate and be thankful for the good that is to come in your life.  Vujicic also says a key to moving out of times of despair is to reach out and help others through their tough times. Again, easier said than done!
     Nick believes if you are going to have a fulfilling life you have to be willing to take risks as you pursue your passions and dreams.   It is also important to surround yourself with people who are supportive of you. 
     In the book, Nick shares how he moved from feeling terrible about himself, to now speaking words of inspiration in front of thousands of people. He writes candidly about facing his fears head on.  It is evident throughout the book that this Australian born 'bloke' has a great sense of humour. Nick shares how he has fun poking fun at himself.  He also shares how he has worked hard to become as independent as possible, though he still uses caregivers.  Amazingly, he writes how he feels other people have worse hands of cards than he does in life.  He talks of situations of dire poverty he has seen overseas for example.
     If you are looking for a highly inspirational book from the viewpoint of positive Christianity, this is the book for you.  If you are looking for something deep theologically, try something else.

WHO NEEDS SABBATH?

     Who needs Sabbath? Isn't it an outdated concept from some old history book? Don't tell that to author and pastor Mark Buchanan.  In his book THE REST OF GOD-RESTORING YOUR SOUL BY RESTORING THE SABBATH (2006, W. Publishing Group) Buchanan tackles the 'ancient' subject. In his mind we all need a time to rest. Whether you're a college student busy with papers and exams or a parent trying to take care of your kids and all that entails, it is a good and healthy thing to take one day a week-it need not be Sunday, and refresh yourself. God gave us Sabbath as a gift. Not only do we need to take a day a week to rest, we need to find times during our busy week to remember, reflect and anticipate. We need to reflect on who we are, who God is, what really matters to us.  A main enemy of Sabbath keeping is busyness. 
     The Sabbath points towards the eternal rest we will experience in heaven.  If we experienced perfect rest here, we would have no need for heaven.  Our citizenship is in heaven.
     Buchanan challenges the old idea of Sabbath being a time where you could have no fun. Not so many generations ago, you couldn't even throw a ball on the Sabbath.  Buchanan says legalism then, is another enemy of Sabbath keeping. On the Sabbath he says, we should do things that aren't necessary and things that we enjoy doing. 
     I have to admit I wondered how one could write a whole book on the Sabbath, but Buchanan has done just that and done it well.  He is a skilled writer.  If you find your life spinning out of control, with all your obligations and pressures pushing in on every side, I recommend finding time to read this book which offers solid practical advice on how to keep the Sabbath meaningfully, and find your center again.

SOMEWHERE DOWN THE ROAD

     Amy Grant describes SOMEWHERE DOWN THE ROAD (2010, EMI) as a "collection of songs about the journey of life."  The songs on this collection were written between 1982 and 2009.  Four of the songs are from 1997.  Amy writes: "I was asking a lot of questions about truth and reality in those last couple of years of my first marriage.  With so much uncertainty in my life, music was a safe place to explore the landscape."  Three of the four tracks from this period are co-written by Wayne Kirkpatrick.  'Every Road' is mellow, and like so many of Grant's songs over the years, could be addressed to God or a human love interest.  'Somewhere down the Road' is about the things we don't understand, and assures the listener that one day we will have answers to our questions.  'Come into my World' is a rough recording featuring just Amy and a guitar.  It is about someone whose life is falling apart and expresses a desire for companionship during the process.
     Six of the songs are from 2009.  The album opener, 'Better than a Hallelujah' is inspirational and speaks of how God wants communion with us: "We pour out our miseries, God just hears a melody/Beautiful the mess we are, the honest cries of breaking hearts/Are better than a hallelujah." 'Overnight' is a duet with her then seventeen year old daughter, Sarah Chapman, who has a pleasant voice.  It is a song for the impatient and the weary: "If it all just happened overnight/You would never learn to believe what you cannot see."  'Find what you're looking for', co-written by Mindy Smith is a tune about how to treat each other: "Haven't we all learned the best life lessons/By falling and falling down hard/If we're looking for somebody's failures/We won't have to look very far."  Two tracks, 'Hard Times' and 'Third World Woman' would have fit nicely on Amy's LEAD ME ON record.
     Also included on SOMEWHERE DOWN THE ROAD are a 2010 version of 'Arms of Love', originally recorded on 1982's AGE TO AGE, and 2001's 'Imagine/Sing the Wondrous Love of Jesus' from LEGACY...HYMNS AND FAITH.
     Amy Grant brings a seasoned artistry to this CD.  She also utilizes many talented performers including Vince Gill, Greg Morrow, and Chris Rodriguez.  I'm giving this light pop release a 4.5 stars out of 5.  Now 50 years old, I look forward to what she does next!

GOING DEEPER

     Stephanie Israelson's DEEPER STILL is somewhat of a departure from her pop/rock album LEAD ME THERE released two years earlier in 2007.  DEEPER STILL is decidedly a modern worship project, produced, mixed, and mastered by Andrew Horrocks in Kitchener, Ontario.
     Stephanie is the reigning Covenant Award Female Vocalist of the Year and one listen of this album reveals why.  The album kicks off with 'Reign in me', an upbeat song of surrender featuring good guitar work.  This is followed by a great, contemporary worship number 'Call on You' that evidences a fundamental confidence in God: "I will call and You will answer/You will be the light that shines upon my face/Your hand will guide me through the day." 'Mighty is Your Name' sounds celebratory and finds her in love with her God: "Mighty is Your Name above all others/I will celebrate You Lord/Mighty is Your Name/And I will praise and love You evermore."  'Alleluia', a radio single, is a ballad shining more light on why Stephanie is in love with God: "You are just and holy God and You see me through the blood/You have cleansed me from all sin and You overflow my cup."
     At least three songs look forward to the second coming of Christ, a theme too oft neglected in today's CCM.  'The Waiting' is a beautiful ballad acknowledging that we have to endure suffering before our Lord appears.  'Ageless One' pledges: "We will watch and pray awaiting Your return/Let us not grow faint/It's for You that we yearn." 'We Cry Out' has a more traditional feel to it to begin with, but then builds.  I could hear Crystal Lewis singing it.  It declares: "We're only here to tell the world about Your grace/Until the day You take us all away."
     The title track, 'Deeper Still' is a rocker that would have fit nicely on Stephanie's previous project.  Co-written with Andrew Horrocks and Naomi Knoll, it is about taking one's relationship with God to the next level: "Launch me out into the deep/Spirit take me/I will go deeper still in You/In You."  The only weak spot on the album is track seven 'I Will Tell'.  It is quite simplistic lyrically and seems better suited to a kid's praise project.
     All in all, this is a modern sounding record that I would recommend especially for 18-40 year olds.  It is clear that not only does Stephanie Israelson have a great voice, but she has a vibrant, loving relationship with her Heavenly Father as well.  I look forward to the next chapter in her recording career.  Thanks to David C. Cook Distribution Canada for carrying this release.

WHERE IS GOD WHEN IT HURTS

     With Christmas less than six weeks away the subject of this book, namely pain and suffering, is quite relevant today. Philip Yancey's WHERE IS GOD WHEN IT HURTS was first published in 1977 by Zondervan Publishing House. The copy I read was a revised and expanded edition put out in 1990.
     Yancey writes: "Many suffering people want to love God, but cannot see past their tears.  They feel hurt and betrayed. Sadly, the church often responds with more confusion than comfort." Some have rejected Christianity because pain and evil exist.  Some see pain as 'God's one mistake.'  I like the following quote: "I have never read a poem extolling the virtues of pain, nor seen a statue erected in its honor, nor heard a hymn dedicated to it."  Suffering calls into question our most basic beliefs about God. Nietzche said: "It is not so much the suffering as the senselessness of it that is unendurable."
     The author believes that pain is valuable in that it tells us something is wrong and thus, is a doorway to recovery.  Much suffering he believes, is a result of the fall of humankind. In the Bible, both God and Satan cause suffering.  In addition people in Scriptures have to endure painful consequences for their sinful actions.  There are times in Scripture though when people suffer and it is not because of something they have done.
     Yancey proposes that we need to focus less on why we suffer and more on our response to suffering.  James 1:2-4 makes it clear that we are to count it all joy when we face trials. You don't have to be joyful about what you are going through, but rather, be joyful about what it can bring about in your life-things such as perserverance, strength, and character.  Yancey writes: "Where is God when it hurts? He is in us-not in the things that hurt-helping to transform bad into good." We can have hope in the midst of our trials: "Hope means simply the belief that something good lies ahead.  It is not the same as optimism or wishful thinking, for these imply a denial of reality." Hope is more like courage than cheerfulness.
     Yancey says there is no avoiding pain and suffering in this world: "The cross of Christ may have assured the final outcome, but battles remain for us to fight."  Christ took on all our pain at the cross and we should take comfort in that: "The surgery of life hurts.  It helps me, though, to know that the surgeon Himself, the Wounded Surgeon, has felt every stab of pain and every sorrow." When Christ ascended into heaven after rising from the dead, He left us the Holy Spirit to comfort us. 
     On a practical note, Yancey makes a strong case that we are to bear each other's burdens. This is something the modern church needs to make a priority.  John Donne said: "No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main."  Yancey writes: "Today, if I had to answer the question 'Where is God when it Hurts?' in a single sentence, I would make that sentence another question: 'Where is the church when it Hurts?'  We form the front line of God's response to the suffering world."
     Christians can be encouraged by the fact that pain and suffering are temporary.  Yancey reminds us: "This is a groaning planet, and Christians expectantly await a world where every tear will be wiped away." We shouldn't be embarrassed to believe this.  Our bodies will be transformed to 'be like His glorious body.'  A secret to handling suffering is to nourish your spirit.  St. Teresa of Avila said "from heaven the most miserable earthly life will look like one bad night in an inconvenient hotel."
     In this book you will find an examination of the suffering people endured during the Holocaust, as well as the story of Joni Eareckson Tada, who was paralyzed in a diving accident when she was a teenager.  You will also learn how to redeem your pain.
     At Christmas, pain and suffering and loneliness come knocking ever the louder at one's door. Christians need to learn how to minister to those with physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs, rather than ignoring them or distancing themselves from them.  When Jesus walked upon this earth, He did not embrace pain with great joy. Rather, he healed many, and sought to relieve suffering.  This is the example we should follow.
    

NEWSBOYS-BORN AGAIN

     I have two initial thoughts after listening to the NEWSBOYS latest full length project with new lead singer Michael Tait, BORN AGAIN (2010, Inpop).  First of all, this sounds neither like a NEWSBOYS record, or a TAIT project.  It sounds like a fresh new band for the most part.  Secondly, the album strikes me as being one of the most blatantly Christian albums lyrically I have heard in the Christian market lately.  It is a textbook of sorts for the Christian lifestyle.
     BORN AGAIN leads off with the title track, which is a good rock number that describes what the process leading up to conversion can be like: "I found myself looking into the mirror/Knew I wasn't who I wanted to be/Was living life the way I wanted/But my eyes reminded I'm not free."  'Escape' is another rocker, this time about fighting temptation.  It encourages believers with these words: "Press toward the Light/And the Light will ground you/Go with the flow/And the flow will drown you" and "Don't believe the hype/It's such a letdown."
     'One Shot' and 'When the Boys Light Up' are about sharing one's faith in Christ.  The latter song also addresses those who thought the band was done when lead singer Peter Furler retired from the road: "All the doubters-I heard 'em say/Now the band's gonna fade away/But the boys are back for a second act." And that they are!
     'Way Beyond Myself' has a contemporary, techno feel to it, and features female vocals by Chanel Campbell.  'Impossible' feels like a R&B song, and lyrically will be appreciated by possibility thinkers with a Christian bent.  'Running to You' and 'On your Knees' are both melodic numbers about prodigals returning home to God the Father.
     'Mighty to Save' is a great cover song for this band, which emphasizes the Good News and shining it brightly: "Saviour, He can move the mountains/My God is mighty to save/He is mighty to save/Forever, author of salvation/He rose and conquered the grave/Jesus conquered the grave."  The cd closes with a good cover of dc talks's 1995 hit 'Jesus Freak', with rapping duties handled by KJ52.
     Not only is BORN AGAIN a good pop/rock album, more importantly it encourages youth to give themselves wholeheartedly to Jesus. And this could start a spiritual revolution!
     I'm giving this one an 87%.

SWIMMING IN THE OCEAN

     THE OCEAN is Bebo Norman's seventh studio project.  It was released September 28, 2010 on BEC Recordings.  It opens with a nice pop song, 'Everything I Hoped You'd Be', which expresses a desire for an intimate relationship with God: "Take me to the river/Lead me to the healer/Let it wash me over, oh my soul." 'God of my Everything', of which there are two versions on the album, one being more radio friendly, similarly petitions God: "Oh God of Heaven, come and hem me in/Gather the pieces that are broken/Show me the wonder of You again/Oh God of Heaven."
     'Could you ever look at Me' finds his voice sounding ragged.  It is a ballad about how God is the center of his wife's world, and not him: "I hope you never look at me the way you're looking at the ocean/Cause in the sunrise I have seen I was never meant to be/The light of your world." 'The Middle' is a ballad about relational struggle that I could see Michael Roe doing.
     Two inspirational tracks at the end of the album are noteworthy.  'I hope you see Jesus' is co-written and sung with Laura Story.  Norman's vocals are appropriately shaky on this one: "Instead of anger, instead of unbelief/Instead of weakness in the heart of me/Instead of a wounded soul that sometimes loses faith/I hope you see Jesus." Do I hear an "Amen" from the congregation?  'Remember Us' is a song of surrender to God: "When the light of day is gone/And our suffering is long/We lift up our needful song/To the Maker of all."
     OCEAN is produced by Bebo Norman and Jason Ingram.  Ingram co-writes and performs on the album as well.  I recommend this one to fans of light pop artists such as Sara Groves.  I'm giving it an 80%.

HOW TO BE BORN AGAIN

     I just finished reading HOW TO BE BORN AGAIN by respected evangelist Billy Graham. The book was published in 1977 by Word Books.  That's right, thirty-three years ago!  Of the new birth, Graham writes: "Some have thought of the new birth as a single event in time, while others use the term to speak of all God wills to do in our lives.  Ultimately, there is a mystery about the new birth; we cannot understand everything about it, for our minds are finite." I found this to be an interesting quote. Graham points out that humans try to fill the void in their lives and souls with many things including fame, alcohol, eastern religions, and academics.  Of intellectuals, he writes: "They would like to save themselves, because pride nourishes self-esteem, making us believe we can manage ourselves without God." What a grave error this is! Graham believes that we should not reject the Gospel just because we don't fully understand it. There is much in life we accept but don't fully grasp. He writes: "If the human mind could fully prove God, He would be no greater than the mind that proves Him."
     Graham tackles the question of the eternal destiny of those who have never heard of Christ: "I am convinced that when a man sincerely searches for God with all his heart, God will reveal Himself in some way.  A person, a bible, or some experience with believers will be used by God to reach the one who seeks." This answer will not satisy everyone, but I think it is pretty decent.  Graham believes there are false religions who will use Christian terms such as 'messiah' and 'salvation', so we have to be on the lookout.  He believes, as do I, that there is only one way to heaven: "Nothing could be more grossly wrong than the old cliche that 'any religion will do, as long as you're sincere'." He reminds us that Abel brought God a blood sacrifice that pleased Him, while Cain did not.
     Sin is what separates us from God. It is 'living for self'.  He writes: "Sin is like cancer.  It destroys step by step. Slowly, without our realizing its insidious onslaught, it progresses until finally the diagnosis is pronounced; sick to death."  There is hope though.  God sent His innocent and pure, only Son, Jesus, who was fully God and fully man at the same time, to redeem us.  Graham proclaims: "The only human hope for peace lies at the cross of Christ, where all men, no matter what their background of nationality or race, can become a new brotherhood." The resurrection of Christ is key to the Christian faith. If Jesus did not rise up after three days, then our faith is worth nothing, and is 'folly'.  If we believe in this tremendous event there is much to be gained: "If you trust the resurrected Christ as your Lord and Savior, He will be with you when you die, and will give you life with Him forever."
     In order to come to Christ, we must repent of our sins and change our lifestyle.  Johnny Cash is an example of someone who did this. Only God can help us do this.  (Anyone who is a Christian knows this is a lifelong process in many ways in my opinion).  When we become a Christian, we are forgiven of our sins, past, present, and future.  We are adopted by God, and filled with His Spirit.
     To conclude the book, Graham prescribes three things to help a new Christian grow in their faith. These three things are spiritual food if you will. They are Scripture reading (the Bible), prayer, and Christian fellowship (church, small prayer groups, etc).
     Having been a Christian since 1986, I found HOW TO BE BORN AGAIN, to be a good refresher on the basics of the Christian faith.  It was also a good reminder of how salvation works and what follows.

LISTEN UP!

     Cindy Morgan's fourth album, LISTEN, was released in 1996 on Word Records and was produced by Brent Bourgeois.  It begins with 'The Master's Hand', which is about reliance on God during life's difficulties: "You carry me through the hard times in life/Oh and You rescue me from the storms in the night."  'Moon Days', the rockiest song on this project has a similar theme.  If it were to be covered by one of today's more popular artists, I'd choose Natalie Grant.  'To Fly' is a story song of sorts.  It is a pretty ballad that finds her on a train imagining what it would be like to rise up above life's hardships and find purpose: " 'Cause in our hearts/We seek the part/God designed for us."
     The lyric for the title track 'Listen', was written by Cindy's father Cova Morgan in the 1970's.  It is a plea for people to listen to the Gospel with their ears and their hearts.  'Gravity' concludes that we need God's help to believe in Him and that it is crucial that we believe: "Dear Lord, help us believe now/In the true light, burning tonight/'Cause we won't survive/If we don't believe now."
     'The Promise' is a ballad about the pain of divorce.  At the other end of the emotional spectrum, 'They Say it's Love ("Stars")' is a jazzy, fun, pop tune about falling in love.
     LISTEN is a fine pop album.  Impressively, Cindy wrote ten of the twelve tracks alone.  Vocally at times she sounds like Tammy Trent.  I'm giving this one 84%.

WE CRY OUT-THE WORSHIP PROJECT

     Jeremy Camp arrived on the Contemporary Christian Music scene in 2002 with his debut album STAY.  Ever since, he has been a force to be reckoned with, winning Male Vocalist of the Year in 2004 and 2005.  He has had nineteen number one hits!

     His latest release is his second worship album, WE CRY OUT-THE WORSHIP PROJECT (2010, Bec Recordings).  The album starts off strong with two stellar, guitar driven songs.  'Jesus Saves' written by Tim Hughes and Nick Herbert, is sung with determination and declares: "Free at last/What a joyful noise we'll make/As we join with heaven's song/To let all the world know that Jesus saves/Raise a shout to let the whole world know/That Jesus saves."  'Not Ashamed' written by Jeremy Camp and Jon Egan, is sung with resolve: "Even tho few may stand and proclaim Your great name/It's the life I want to live/Cuz I'm convinced there is none like You." 'The Way' is performed with the Joy of Africa choir and invites God's glory to fill the land.  How much that is needed in this day and age cannot be overstated!

     The title track 'We Cry Out' written by Jeremy Camp and Brenton Brown, is a beautiful, mid-tempo song that fans of the Newsboys worship material should enjoy.  It is celebratory: "We will cry out to You/Your loving kindness and Your truth/It has delivered us/You have delivered us." 'Unrestrained' is a ballad about wanting to be purified by God.

     I have two criticisms about the album as a whole though.  The first is that some of the songs are so mellow that they seem more aimed at people, probably ladies, in their forties and fifties.  'You are the Lord' written with Matt Maher, and 'Overcome' written by Jon Egan, are examples.  Die hard worship fans will appreciate the songs though.  My second criticism is that there are some covers of songs already overdone by other artists in the field.  How many versions of 'Mighty to Save' do we need?

     WE CRY OUT-THE WORSHIP PROJECT showcases great musicianship throughout, including Camp's band, as well as industry vets Scott Dente and Jerry McPherson on guitars.  The album was produced by Brown Bannister and Jeremy Camp. I'm giving it a 75%.

     A trailer for the album can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjH5MqH_jbc

REFLECTING ON WHAT MATTERS MOST

     Cheri Keaggy released her third album WHAT MATTERS MOST on Sparrow Records in 1997.  It opens with a bouncy, pop number 'What a Privilege' which features her uncle, Phil Keaggy by way of guitar solo and backing vocals.  The song is about intimacy with Father God: "I'll drink from Your cup/And You can fill it up/I know there'll be enough."  Next up is the title track, a ballad featuring album producer Phil Naish on accordion.  This song is decidedly about priorities: "What matters most/Is how much we love/What matters most/Is how much we give/What would it matter/If we just lived/Without loving our God/Without loving each other?"
     'Overture to Freedom' is a gorgeous instrumental track with Cheri on piano, accompanied by The Nashville String Machine and Concert Master Carl Gorodetzky.  The strings are arranged and conducted by the late Tom Howard.  When I listen to this, I can picture the graceful movements of ice skaters or dancers.  'Freedom Calling' is an inspirational anthem featuring The Soul Children of Chicago.  It shares the essence of the Gospel with these words: "There's only One who can give breath to life/Dead on a cross and then risen alive/So I could know freedom/And you could know freedom/And we could have freedom in Christ."  'Part of Your Story' is pretty and compels the listener to enter into a relationship with Christ: "Can you not sit at my table/We could be the best of friends/If you would just let me in/But you won't/'Cause you don't think you're in need."  Handing the reigns of one's life over to God strongly clashes with much of what today's society says is important and desirable.
     'His Banner over Me' and 'Glory Be' are great, original praise and worship songs.  I recommend this project to fans of Erin O'Donnell, Sara Groves, and early-era Amy Grant.  I'm giving it an 85%.

THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL

     Given the creative title of, and the theatrical pictures in the booklet for Mercy Me's latest project on INO Records, THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL (2010), one is led to believe that it is a concept album that tells a story.  This does not seem to me to be the case though.  That being said, some of the songs would fit nicely on a concept CD.
     There are several good songs on this project.  The title track is a pop song, with Beatles influence.  It wouldn't sound out of place on Randy Stonehill's WONDERAMA.  THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL  is about the importance of doing small acts of kindness that benefit others: "He wakes up every day the same/Believing he's gonna make a change/Never wonders if but when/I guarantee he can find a way to reach out and make somebody's day."  'Crazy Enough' is slow and groovy and continues on the same theme: "Call me crazy/But what if we learned to love our brother for nothing in return."  One of my favourites is 'Beautiful', a song for when one is weary and downtrodden.  The message will ring true with everyone from the lonely college girl away from home to the overbooked soccer mom.
     Fans of Mercy Me's more worshipful tunes like 'I can only Imagine' and 'Word of God Speak' are not left out on this latest disc.  'All of Creation', already a Christian radio hit, and 'Only You Remain' will satisfy. 
     The problem with THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL as an album is that there are three or four forgettable songs such as 'Move' and 'Won't You be My Love'.  The latter is similar thematically to Casting Crowns' 'If we are the Body', but is inferior to it.  While a new band might be forgiven this many average songs on an album, Mercy Me has been around the block enough times that expecatations should be higher.
     I'm giving THE GENEROUS MR. LOVEWELL a 70 percent!

GOD'S POLITICS

     GOD'S POLITICS-WHY THE RIGHT GETS IT WRONG AND THE LEFT DOESN'T GET IT was written by Jim Wallis, editor of Sojourners magazine, and published by HarperSanFrancisco in 2005.  This book is a thoughtful examination of personal faith and how it should influence one's politics.  Though Wallis writes mainly about the U.S. political scene, the faith principles he lays out can easily be applied to other countries as well.
     It doesn't take long to figure out that Mr. Wallis is not a fan of the Religious Right, represented by suich televangelists as Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell, and Focus on the Family head James Dobson.  He is an evangelical Christian though.  He feels, as do I, that the Religious Right has hijacked American Christianity.  In their version of Christianity, it almost seems like abortion and homosexuality are the only issues Christians are interested in.  Dangerously, this is often combined with a strong support for war as God's means to bring about peace.  Wallis, thus, was not a big fan of President Bush either.  Walllis sees no Scriptural proof that Jesus would support war, especially an unjustified one. Can  you say 'weapons of mass destruction'?"
     The Republicans are not Wallis' only target however.  He criticizes Democrats for not being willing to discuss spiritual and moral issues more openly.  He makes a strong case that neither party is properly addressing to the full the problem of poverty on home turf-this while millions are being spent on war.  Both parties need to tackle the environmental issues of our day as well.
     Wallis believes one can be morally conservative, but liberal when it comes to social issues.  One can support 'civil unions' but not 'marriages' when it comes to homosexuality.  There should be room in both political parties for people who hold these beliefs.  Furthermore, various faith groups in the U.S. must join together to fight for a better America.
     My only complaint with GOD'S POLITICS is that there is a fair bit of repetition when it comes to Wallis' major points.  This should not deter one from reading it though.

GETTING SNAPPY

     2007 saw Hokus Pick receive a Lifetime Acheivement Award from the Canadian Gospel Music Association.  Ten years prior to that, the band released what may well be the strongest album of their career.  SNAPPY contains the hit, horn-filled song 'I'm So Happy', a celebration of good things coming one's way: "Playing guitar in a band/Just got back from Disneyland/Driving a new 4X4/Ed McMahon is at my door."  It's good to see that over the years Hokus Pick didn't lose their quirkiness, even as their musicianship improved.  In this respect they could be compared to Barenaked Ladies.
     Russ Smith and the rest of the guys in Hokus Pick present a realistic view of Christianity on 'We are the People': "God never promised the skies would be blue/Smooth sailing all the way through/He never promised sun without rain/Joy without sorrow, peace without pain."  Love is a theme examined on SNAPPY.  The album opener, 'Faith, Hope and Love' states: "Love is patient, love is kind/It never withers, even in the grind."  The chorus of 'Our God' declares: "Our God loves us all/So let's all love our God."  Fans of the band's earlier, peppy material will enjoy 'Comfort Song' that exposes the fault of putting trust in anything but God: "I put my comfort in my looks/My face has grazed the front of magazines and books/I don't want to get beat up by a crook/I put my comfort in my looks/Give it up, let it go/Step out of your comfort zone/God is great, we are lame/Yeah (x6) really lame."
     I'm giving SNAPPY an 88%.  This is a fun, guitar driven album, conveying truths we all need to be reminded of.  SNAPPY was released on Freedom Records.

CHLOE

CHLOE came out in 2009. This film stars three heavyweights, Julianne Moore as Catherine, Liam Neeson as her husband David, and Amanda Seyfried of Dear John and Mean Girls fame as an escort.

The movie begins with Seyfried narrating matter of factly what her job description is.  In other words she describes what is required of her physically and mentally in her profession.  I feel that this was a good way for the movie to start as the flick is based around Catherine hiring Chloe to see if her husband is indeed being unfaithful to her, as she suspects.  The whole subject of escorts is a touchy one, no pun intended.  It certainly stirs a lot of emotions from people of all walks of life, so I found this tale intriguing. 

You could view this movie from several viewpoints. First, take the viewpoint of Catherine, the wife.  Imagine the betrayal you would feel if your partner cheated on you. The range of thoughts you would have would be wide. Inadequacy, anger, hurt, sadness, grief, despair, jealousy-you'd be a ball of flaming emotion!  Then, the viewpoint of the husband.  The lure of a younger woman, the thrill, the desire, the lust, the unknown, the game. But then, the guilt, the realization of what one has done to his family, and the sorrow and grief.  The matter of whether one could be trusted ever again.  Finally, the viewpoint of the escort, or the prostitute, or just the 'other woman'.  The excitement, the conquest, the need to be loved and feel valued. The worry about being found out. The question as to when the affair will come to an end. The abuse suffered for the money taken. 

This is one of those movies that will make you think about what you are watching. Amanda Seyfried is quick becoming one of my favourite actresses.  The movie is not excessive in its' skin content considering the subject matter.

CHLOE is a pretty good movie.  It was however slow at points and not put together the best in my opinion.  I'll give it a 3 out of 5 stars.

GOING TO CHURCH WITH PATTY GRIFFIN

     Patty Griffin released her gospel project DOWNTOWN CHURCH on Credential Recordings earlier this year.  It begins with the slow 'House of Gold' that showcases her powerful voice.  The song stresses that having assurance of where your soul is going is more important than having wealth.  Tell that to Wall Street!  Death and what follows it are recurrent themes on the album.  'Move Up' is a rockabilly Elvis style tune that speaks of going to see Jesus and relatives that have gone before.  'Death's Got a Warrant' is super heavy on the percussion and reminds us we can't escape death: "God's got your number/He knows where you live."  Buddy Miller joins Griffin on 'Never Grow Old'.  It talks of how we will praise God forever 'when our work here is done.'  'We Shall all be Reunited' gives us the hope that heaven has no sorrow or separation.
     Griffin shares some Bible stories on DOWNTOWN CHURCH.  This is something oft lacking in CCM songs.  'If I had my Way' is a bluesy song telling the tale of Samson and Delilah.  'The Strange Man' tells both the story of the Samaritan woman who meets Christ at the well, and the story of the woman caught in adultery.  Jesus is the 'Strange Man' because of the countercultural ways he deals with these ladies.  'I Smell a Rat' is the funnest song.  I could hear either Dolly Parton or Christina Aguilera singing it!  It is both fun and accusatory: "You won't tell me where you been/Whiskey running all down your chin." 
     I highly recommend this CD to anyone wanting to hear a truly authentic album by a genuine artist. Visit http://www.pattygriffin.com/ for more info on her.