A song to ignite memories of child-like excitement about Christmas and transform them into awe-filled wonder, focusing on the transforming work of Christ that begun with his earthly birth.
This is a reminder of why we come together to worship, bringing all of ourselves and offering whatever we can, but remembering that we're also sustained and supported when we're scattered within our communities. It has worked well to bring congregations to a more receptive place of encounter, particularly after a spell of high praise.
In the Psalms, Zion is not merely a name for Jerusalem, but a poetic reference to the place where God dwells, and where his blessing is available to his people. While the blessing is all from God, we do not receive it passively, but reach out for it actively in trust and obedience. Joy and peace begin in the fear of God, following Jesus in all our endeavors. As we trust God to provide, he will restore us in his time: individually, in our families, and in his kingdom to come.
Reading the story of the Prodigal Son, I was struck by how the father hugged his son and gave him a coat, a robe. He restored his status, clothed him. Suddenly I was reminded of the soldiers who took away the robe of Jesus, God’s Son, when He was crucified. They cast lots to decide whose it would be. Jesus laid down His robe, His authority, His dignity, His status, for me to be clothed with garments of salvation and wrapped in a robe of righteousness (Isaiah 61:10). I was so amazed that I wrote this song.
Written for the ‘Refugee’ month challenge for the Resound Worship 12 Song Challenge, June 2023. The wonderful Sue Crossman from Hopestream Worship provided vocals. This song reminds us that we have all been people in need, and if we follow Jesus’ example we will treat those we see in need as he did.
Note: The chords and sheet music are in the original key of B minor, but the recording with Sue is in G# minor.
This song is about Tithing and how it's the only time that God asks us to test him in Malachi 3:10. We want to be people that willing give to the creator who gave it all for us first.