Music

Reba McEntire has turned in a powerful rendition of one of the most beloved hymns of all time, “Because He Lives.”

Life can be overwhelming and unbearable at times. Situations and circumstances can push us to our very limits, leaving us wondering whether we have the strength and capacity to continue. Moments in life will pull, test and stretch our faith. 

Some instances may even cause doubts or questions to pop up in our minds. What is God doing? Where is God? What is His plan in all of this? Those are just some of the questions people have and will ask themselves whenever they encounter one of life’s valleys.

However, no matter what happens, we can rest assured that God is still in control and working. The Bible mentions that, in all situations, God works for the good of those who love Him. His Word also points out that He will never leave or forsake us, no matter what we face or are going through.

In a clip posted on social media, Reba sings a tune that reminds us that no matter what we may encounter in this life, we cannot give in or give up. It’s always worth going and living simply because He lives and is in control, and because of that fact, we can face tomorrow.

“Because He lives, I can face tomorrow

Because He lives, my fears are gone

Because I know He holds the future

And life is worth the living”

What a beautifully written chorus, masterfully performed by “The Queen of Country Music.” 

Those lyrics are essentially promises to anyone and everyone who may be enduring a trial or a hardship. God has not left, even though it may sometimes feel like it. And because He is still alive, working and on the throne, we can make it with Him right by our side.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you, and keep you from evil.”

Check out this moving rendition of ‘In The Garden’ performed by The Oak Ridge Boys.

“I come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses

And the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses

And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own

And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known”

What a great performance of this beloved hymn! The voices of The Oak Ridge Boys blend so well together, and it is so lovely to listen to them sing.

The Oak Ridge Boys are made up of lead singer Duane Allen, bass singer Richard Sterban, tenor Joe Bonsall, and baritone William Lee Golden. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of country hits and earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards. The group has scored twelve gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album—plus one double platinum single. They have also had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits.

“Beautiful song, reminds me that we're never alone with Jesus by our side,” comments one person on YouTube after watching The Oak Ridge boys sing ‘In The Garden.’

“I'm glad the Oak Ridge Boys are doing both country music and gospel music. The best of both worlds!” another person writes online.

The Oak Ridge Boys are among many other talented singers who have recorded ‘In The Garden.’ Some of those artists include Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Randy Travis, Ella Fitzgerald, Loretta Lynn, and Rosemary Clooney.

This popular hymn was written by C. Austin Miles, and it is virtually impossible to pick up a standard hymnal and find this song omitted. We hope that you enjoyed listening to this rendition of ‘In The Garden’ by The Oak Ridge Boys today!

Country music singer Lainey Wilson nailed her cover performance of the late Toby Keith’s hit “How Do You Like Me Now?!”

Unfortunately, death is a very real and sad part of life. It already has or will impact everyone’s life in one way or another. That’s why it is important to cherish and make the most of every moment God has given you on Earth. Everyone thinks they have plenty of time, but the fact of the matter is that the amount is likely much less than we’d like to know. 

Spending as much time as possible with loved ones should always be a priority. They could be here one minute and gone the next. Tell them you love and appreciate them often. No one will get tired of hearing someone saying, “I love you.”

In a clip posted on Facebook, singer Lainey Wilson covered Toby Keith’s classic “How Do You Like Me Now?!” during a performance at the CMT Music Awards. She absolutely nailed the song!

“How do you like me now?

How do you like me now?

Now that I’m on my way

Do you still think I’m crazy standing here today?”

The crowd was into her performance from the moment she opened her mouth and began belting out the lyrics. The camera caught many people up on their feet dancing and singing along with Lainey. They certainly enjoyed the musical performance that was happening right in front of them. 

The audience responded to Lainey’s spirited performance with a deafening round of applause. 

Before the clip ends, Lainey says, “We love you, Toby.”

Of course, her performance was a tribute to the late singer. Toby passed away in early February at the age of 62 following a battle with stomach cancer. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

The Vaeter siblings deliver a breathtaking ‘Hallejuh’ performance, and you don’t want to miss it. 

In a world yearning for solace and connection, the enchanting harmonies of Daylon, Daura, and Devon Veater, known collectively as Life in 3D, resonate like a beacon of hope. With their latest breathtaking cover of "Hallelujah," these siblings once again weave a tapestry of beauty and emotion that transcends the ordinary and touches the soul.

From the first haunting notes to the triumphant crescendo, their rendition of Leonard Cohen's timeless classic is nothing short of mesmerizing. Each voice blends seamlessly with the others, creating a symphony of sound that transports listeners to a realm of sublime tranquility of God’s arms. It's as if heaven itself has opened its gates, and the angels themselves are lending their voices to proclaim the glory of creation.

But it's not just their impeccable vocal prowess that captivates audiences—it's the depth of emotion infused into every lyric, every note. With each heartfelt refrain, they channel a raw authenticity that speaks to the human experience in all its joys and sorrows. Their rendition of "Hallelujah" becomes more than just a song; it becomes a prayer, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith to carry us through life's darkest moments.

As the music swells and soars, it's impossible not to be moved by the sheer magnitude of their talent and the sincerity of their performance. In their voices, we hear echoes of grace and redemption, reminders that even in our brokenness, there is beauty to be found. It's a reminder that no matter how lost or alone we may feel, there is always hope on the horizon, a light that shines brighter than any darkness.

In the end, Life in 3D's rendition of "Hallelujah" isn't just a song—it's a testament to the power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite us in our shared humanity. It's a reminder that even in our most vulnerable moments, we are never truly alone, for there is always music to guide us home.

Psalm 98:4-6 "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the Lord, the King."

Listen to this stunning live performance of ‘The Dutchman’ from Celtic Thunder and be in awe of the beautiful vocals and lyrics.

“The Dutchman's not the kind of man who keeps his thumb jammed in the dam

That holds his dreams in, but that's a secret that only Margaret knows.

When Amsterdam is golden in the summer, Margaret brings him breakfast,

She believes him. He thinks the tulips bloom beneath the snow.”

‘The Dutchman’ was written by Michael Peter Smith in 1968 and has become a beloved folk song over the years. The song is about an elderly couple living in Amsterdam, with Margaret being the title character. The unnamed Dutchman is senile, and Margaret cares for him with sadness over what has happened to him over the years. When Margaret is away, the Dutchman wanders and imagines. He is only grounded when his dear wife returns. The song’s overall story is one of unconditional and undying love. 

In the music video, Celtic Thunder is performing ‘The Dutchman’ live from Ontario, Canada. And they did a beautiful job putting their own twist on the song.

Celtic Thunder is an Irish singing group that first came together in 2007. They are known for their eclectic, theatrical-style shows, and the Celtic Thunder Band backs the group on their concert tours. Their live shows are known for the use of dramatic set pieces, visual effects, and highly choreographed staging.

We hope you enjoyed this performance of ‘The Dutchman’ from Celtic Thunder today and the music was able to bring a smile to your face.

Proverbs 3:3-4 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

The supremely talented and gifted Kelly Clarkson mesmerized with a breathtaking cover of a timeless and beloved tune, “Over the Rainbow.”

Many people want to be singers, playing to thousands of adoring fans every night. Just look at all the people who try out for shows like American Idol, America’s Got Talent and The Voice. Everyone wants to believe they have what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive field like entertainment.

However, sadly, that’s not the case at all. While many people may and do try out for those shows, the judges are the ones who have to crush those dreams as they gently let them down, telling them thanks but no thanks. 

Kelly Clarkson was one of those people who tried out for those programs and most certainly has what it takes. She is the original American Idol. Since winning the first season of the popular singing competition show, she has become a household name due to her stunning voice. She has the ability and range to hit notes most other singers cannot. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kelly turned in a stunning performance of “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a stripped-down, jazzy version. The focus is solely on Kelly’s vocal performance, as it should be. 

“Someday, I’ll wish upon a star

Wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

High above the chimney tops, that’s where”

Because of her voice, Kelly can nail classic, beloved songs that others would not even think of trying. There is likely little that Kelly cannot sing or cover and make sound as good as and even better than the original. 

Her version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” hits all the right notes, making it worth listening to repeatedly. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Legendary actress and singer Judy Garland turns in a superb performance of the timeless tune “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Since the invention of music, musicians have likely been covering and playing one another’s tunes. This time-honored tradition has been practiced for years and will likely continue well into the future. It’s a way to honor and pay respect to someone else and their work.

Also, who doesn’t want to hear different interpretations of classic songs? How would The Beatles’ “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” sound if Dolly Parton, Pentatonix, or some other artist or group performed it? I’m sure they would add something to it to make it their own and leave their mark. But, of course, we all know that “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” will forever and always be a Beatles tune.

While everyone loves covers of classic songs every now and then, the original version is best, most of the time. Paul Simon’s and Art Garfunkel’s “Sound of Silence” has been covered by nearly every artist and band in existence, but the original is still far and away the superior version.

Another song that gets the cover treatment a lot is “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the song Judy Garland performed in “The Wizard of Oz,” the beloved 1939 film. Sure, some of the covers of that lovely song over the years are enjoyable, but Judy’s version remains number one. No one will ever top it. 

In a clip posted on social media, Judy is captured on camera beautifully singing those memorable and iconic lyrics. 

“Somewhere I’ll wish upon a star

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

Away above the chimney tops, that’s where you’ll find me”

Kelly Clarkson, Willie Nelson, Ariana Grande and many others have covered the iconic song, but Judy Garland’s original is simply unmatched, and will forever remain that way. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

A young woman turned in a spectacular performance, nailing her cover of Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best” on American Idol.

The latest season of American Idol is moving along quickly, swiftly approaching its inevitable conclusion. The judges – Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan – have whittled the group of aspiring singers down, sending many of them home after they failed to meet and exceed their expectations.

The program has reached the portion of the season where the American public has a say in who stays and goes home. So now, not only are the participants performing for the three judges, but they must also win the hearts and votes of people watching at home. 

From the thousands who tried out to the hundreds who made it onto the show, only 24 singers remain. Now, the contestants are in Hawaii, at Disney’s Aulani resort, where they all take the stage and sing in front of a live audience on the beach.

One of the people who has made it through the series of cuts is Nya. In a clip posted on YouTube, the young woman takes the stage and dazzles the audience and those watching at home with a beautiful rendition of a timeless classic from the late Tina Turner, “Simply the Best.”

As Nya sings two of the song’s verses, it’s clear that everyone loves what they hear from the young woman. They shout, cheer and clap, showing her their approval and appreciation. However, when she reaches the song’s memorable chorus, the audience really lets her hear it.

“You’re simply the best

Better than all the rest

Better than anyone

Anyone I’ve ever met”

Nya is an incredibly talented young singer who will be tough to beat. It will be interesting to see how far her talented and unique-sounding voice will take her in the competition.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

American Idol contestant Kennedy Reid’s stunning cover performance of the timeless classic “Fancy” had all three judges on their feet.

There are some songs and performers that only a few people would dare to cover. Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, The Beatles, and Elvis Presley fall into that exclusive category. Their songs and sound are so iconic, memorable and beloved that everyone can instantly detect any error, slip-up or variation from the original. 

Another legendary performer who fits into that category is Reba McEntire. She has produced dozens of timeless tunes throughout her illustrious and successful career. She did not earn the nickname “The Queen of Country Music” for nothing. If you’re going to cover a Reba song, you better bring it because if not, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kennedy did just that and more with her cover of “Fancy.” She sounded absolutely terrific as she let loose and brought so much energy and enthusiasm to her performance. 

Her stunning performance brought all the judges – Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan – to their feet. She owned the stage, giving the impression that she had been doing this for years.

“Well, I remember it all very well, lookin’ back

It was the summer I turned eighteen

We lived in a one-room, rundown shack

On the outskirts of New Orleans”

You don’t have to be a country music or a Reba fan to appreciate Kennedy’s performance. It was so energetic and enthusiastic. It was an entertaining and infectious performance in which Kennedy showed off her vocal skills and her ability to play to the audience and get them involved. 

It's safe to say that Kennedy will be tough to beat as the competition progresses. That performance is sure to resonate with people voting.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Two supremely talented and musically gifted siblings, The Malpass Brothers, turned in a spirited and soul-stirring rendition of the beloved gospel tune “Keep Your Eyes on Jesus.”

The world is full of distractions. Due to the rushed and often frenetic nature of everyday life, it can be easy to become too focused on something happening or going on in one’s life. Yes, life, what happens in our lives, and those friends and loved ones in our lives are important. 

But it’s essential to keep things in perspective. What may seem like a monumental, life-changing matter at the time probably means very little in the long run. All people tend to do that, but what did that pressing issue really mean in the grand scheme? Not very much at all.

That’s why keeping our focus and eyes on Jesus Christ is paramount. The Bible says in Matthew that we are first to seek His kingdom and righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. 

Also, Christ will offer His guidance and care during life’s storms. He has always been faithful; there is no reason to believe He won’t be this time.

In a clip posted on YouTube, The Malpass Brothers sing a tune about remaining focused on Christ and avoiding the many distractions in life that can change our focus and attention.

“Keep your eyes on Jesus

When the tidal waves of trouble ‘round you roll

Keep your eyes on Jesus

He will calm the storms of life that cost your soul”

That is an absolutely beautifully written chorus about Christ’s love, protection, guidance and faithfulness. Those lyrics are also words that Christ’s followers can trust and live by, knowing that whatever may come up and happen, He is still in control and at work.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

One young singer’s outstanding cover performance of ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” captivated the audience and the judges on American Idol. 

The current season of American Idol is quickly approaching its season finale, during which another winner will be crowned and named the next American Idol. However, before a winner can be named, the contestants must continue to battle it out, week after week, showing their musical talent to the judges, the audience and those watching at home.

The competition on American Idol is always fierce. All the contestants badly want to become the next winner. That’s why they must continually turn out one astounding vocal performance after another. One off performance or even a missed note could be the difference between winning the competition and going home.

In his latest appearance on the popular program, Roman Collins gave a stunning vocal performance, showing off his voice and ability to play to the crowd. He sang Marvin Gaye’s hit “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You.)” 

It was a show-stopping performance. Roman started belting out the lyrics, and seconds into the performance, the judges were already impressed. Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan both audibly registered their approval of Roman’s rendition of the Marvin Gaye classic.

Luke said, “Wow,” several times before standing up and clapping to the tune's beat. Katy Perry and Luke even began dancing around as Roman provided the sweet, soulful sounds. 

Not long after Luke and Katy’s dance routine, Lionel and Jelly Roll are also on their feet as they enjoy Roman’s impeccable vocal performance on the outdoor American Idol stage. 

It’s unclear what critiques or complaints someone could have about Roman’s performance, which was marvelous! It should be listened to and watched multiple times.

Psalm 104:33 “I will make songs to the Lord all my life; I will make melody to my God while I have my being.”

The incredibly talented group of musicians, The Petersens, turned in a toe-tapping performance of an original bluegrass tune, “Wrong Side of Tomorrow.”

Who doesn’t want to do or be better tomorrow than they are today? Everybody alive wants to wake up in a better position, whatever that may look like, tomorrow than they did the previous day. But there is a big difference between wanting something and doing something. 

Anyone can dream about achieving or being something. However, making a dream a reality takes time, effort and work. Sadly, most people who are on the path to making their dreams a reality become too easily discouraged. One little bump in the road is enough to derail most individuals. 

But then there are other times, even when we genuinely want to and work toward changing our ways, when we continually fail. We may ask ourselves the following questions: At what point will I actually change my ways and get my life on the right track? 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the Petersens sing an incredibly catchy tune about this very situation. “Wrong Side of Tomorrow” is about a man who desperately wants to change his ways but, despite his desires, knows that he will not. At what point will the man change his direction? The lyrics ask how far he must fall before he does something about his life course.

The lyrics to “Wrong Side of Tomorrow” are somewhat like what Paul wrote to the Romans in Romans chapter 7, the section where he writes about doing what he does not want to do. Paul wanted to change his ways and hated what he was doing, but he continued doing it.

Human beings are fallen creatures who cannot change themselves. We can change and turn away from our old ways only because of God’s love, mercy, grace and forgiveness.

Romans 7:15 “And I have no clear knowledge of what I am doing, for that which I have a mind to do, I do not, but what I have hate for, that I do.”

The legendary Dolly Parton has given a dazzling cover performance of the late Tom Petty’s song “Southern Accents.”

Dolly may be in her late 70s, but the “Jolene” singer has not shown any signs of slowing down. Instead, she has stated that she has no plans to retire and will continue performing for as long as possible. And if you’re lucky enough to find something you love doing, why not keep doing it for as long as possible?

Age seems to be nothing but a number to Dolly, as she still sounds as good as ever. She continues to perform and release new music and videos to accompany those tunes, including one for her cover of “Southern Accents.” 

The official video for her cover of Tom Petty’s “Southern Accents” was posted on YouTube. While Dolly may not have written or performed the song initially, the song’s title and lyrics sound like something that she would do, given that she is a Southern girl. 

“There’s a southern accent where I come from

The young’uns call it country

The Yankees call it dumb

I got my own way of talkin’”

In the video, Dolly sits and sings at a piano, picks up several items scattered throughout a house, and looks longingly at them. As Dolly goes through the items, various clips of the song’s original writer, Tom Petty, are played. 

Also, several of the items that Dolly picks up and others that the camera catches are related to the late Tom Petty. She looks at and feels a guitar, and there is a quick shot of a Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers record.

It’s clear that Dolly’s cover of “Southern Accents” is a tribute to Tom, remembering his life and his contribution to music. 

Once again, as she often does, Dolly knocks this song out of the park. Her voice sounds great and does not sound like it’s coming from a woman in her 70s. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

A young woman turned in an epic, fantastic cover performance of the beloved praise and worship tune “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” on American Idol.

Life, as wonderful as it can be, is a series of unknown events. No person can be entirely sure what will happen from one moment to the next. Those who say they know exactly what will happen from day to day are either liars, crazy or probably both. 

Everything in life can be changed without a moment’s notice. Your world can be turned upside down, leaving you feeling alone, distraught and trying to make sense of your new reality. A loved one could be here one second and gone the next. 

However, no matter what happens, when we rely upon God’s guidance, direction and protection, we can rest assured that He is in control. It may not seem like it at the time, but God has a plan and will never let us go. We may venture into unknown waters and circumstances, but God stands beside us through it all. 

Abi Carter, a young woman who has made it into the top 24 on the latest season of American Idol, performed Hillsong UNITED’s hit “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” – a song about experiencing the unknown and having to rely upon God during the instances. 

“And I will call upon Your name

And keep my eyes above the waves

When oceans rise

My soul will rest in Your embrace”

The audience responded with a well-deserved round of applause to Abi’s emotional and moving performance about trusting in God during times of trouble and uncertainty. It’s unclear how far Abi will go in the competition, but with her latest performance, she was able to share a wonderful message of faith in and reliance upon God with a massive audience.

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

What a compelling performance by popular street performer and YouTube personality Allie Sherlock! 

Allie is known for her amazing covers of popular songs performed on the street in Dublin and shared worldwide on YouTube. Allie is only 18 years old but has a powerful singing voice and can engage the audience watching her on the street.

This particular song, ‘Proud Mary,’ is upbeat and catchy. It has become quite a popular song; most people recognize it when they hear it. 

‘Proud Mary’ is a song by the band Creedence Clearwater Revival and was first released as a single in January of 1969. Ike and Tina Turner then released their own version in 1971, for which they won a Grammy in 1972. 

Guitarist John Fogerty wrote the song in just two days after being discharged from the National Guard. 

There is no doubt that the crowd watching Allie is enjoying her music. They are standing around watching intently, smiling, and taking photos and videos. She really can stop traffic with her musical abilities.

“Big wheel keep on turnin'

Ooh, the Proud Mary keep on burnin'

And we're rollin' (rollin'), rollin', yeah (rollin')

Rollin' on the river (rollin' on the river)” 

The chorus to ‘Proud Mary’ gets in your head, and you can’t help but want to sing it out loud. During Allie’s performance, she engages the crowd to sing with her. “I want everybody to help me out. It’s really easy, just one word…rollin’,” she tells everyone watching. She starts to sing, and the crowd does their part, responding with “rollin’.” 

Allie not only sings the song but also plays the guitar at the same time. She is focused and animated, which makes for such a beautiful performance of the popular song. 

“Sing to him, sing psalms to him: talk you of all his wondrous works.” - Psalms 105:2 

The legendary Dick Van Dyke had a sweet and heartwarming response after watching others perform a “Mary Poppins” dance routine.

There are only a couple of entertainers who are thoroughly beloved by basically everyone. Betty White, John Wayne, Michael Landon, James Stewart, Loretta Lynn and Fred Rogers all belong in that exclusive category. However, sadly, all of those mentioned have since passed away. But the work they left behind is still enjoyed by legions of fans.

The only people in entertainment who garner that level of universal love and admiration who are still alive are Carol Burnett and Dick Van Dyke. Despite being in their 90s, both remain fairly active, popping up on television from time to time.

Much like them, their work is also cherished and beloved. Who doesn’t love The Carol Burnett Show and The Dick Van Dyke Show? You’d have to work hard to find someone who does not enjoy one of those programs.

In addition to his legendary television sitcom, Dick has other notable works. He has appeared in several iconic and beloved films. The musicals “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “Mary Poppins” immediately come to mind.

In a clip posted on YouTube from a program celebrating Dick’s marvelous and legendary career, entertaining the masses with his charm, wit and boatload of talent, he was treated to a dance routine from “Mary Poppins.” The dancers recreated the rooftop dance routine as Dick looked on with joy and glee. He was clearly tickled to death to watch the performers recreate the number from the 1964 film.

Following their performance, Dick praised the dancers and said it reminded him of how much he enjoyed making the film.

“Everything, right on the money,” he said. “It’s just so exciting to see it. It reminds me of what a good time I had. I’m so blessed by this evening.”

Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I will say, rejoice.”

What an exquisite children’s choir!

In this YouTube video, we listen to the PCA Honor Choir’s ‘Ride On, King Jesus’ performance. The choir is from Prestonwood Christian Academy, located in Plano, TX. The mission of their vocal program is to “expose every child to multiple aspects of music, to enrich the PCA Community with a healthy and vibrant artistic culture, and to glorify God as we strive for excellence in the development of the musical gifts He has given.”

The choir, composed of around 70 kids, gives a beautiful performance of this African American spiritual. It was arranged by Joe Cox at the ACSI Choir Festival in February of 2024. 

‘Ride On, King Jesus’ was composed by Hezekiah Brinson, Jr in 1990. The lyrics begin with:

“Ride on King Jesus,

No man can-a hinder me.

Ride on King Jesus,

No man can-a hinder me.”

This spiritual song is ideal for a choir’s performance, as seen in this video. The music flows together phenomenally.  

The song is about being with Jesus, going to heaven, and how no man can hinder you if you are with him. Such an important topic to consider today when we have so many distractions. Keeping your eyes on Jesus is a must. 

Songs such as these that talk about Jesus and who he is to us are important and have been around for a long time. They remind us of what is important in life and where our focus should be. Songs can translate such meaning and importance, and the PCA Honor Choir does an excellent job of doing so. 

“Fear you not; for I am with you: be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.” - Isaiah 41:10

Brothers of Heart gives a magical performance of ‘Seven Bridges Road’ in this YouTube video from Gaither Music TV. It was filmed live at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN and is the official video for the song. 

Brothers of Heart is comprised of four men, Jimmy Fortune, Bradley Walker, Mike Rogers, and Ben Isaacs. Jimmy is a country music singer from Virginia who sang tenor for the Statler Brothers for 21 years. Bradley is a bluegrass and country music singer and songwriter from Alabama who is the youngest of the group at 46. Mike is a multi-instrumentalist born and raised in South Carolina. Ben Issacs is the bass player and vocalist for the Issacs and is from Tennessee. 

Brothers of Heart has been dubbed the “Country, bluegrass, gospel dream team” by Cowboys and Indians Magazine. 

Together they create a lovely bluegrass melody with their voices and instruments, including the guitar. It will make you want to get up and dance yourself. 

The song they are singing, ‘Seven Bridges Road’ begins with:

“There are stars in the southern sky

Southward as you go

There is moonlight and moss in the trees

Down the seven bridges road”

The song was written by Steve Young and was recorded in 1969. It is an ode to Woodley Road, which is a rural two-lane road in Alabama. The Eagles recorded the song in 1980, and many people are familiar with this version of the song. 

Brothers of Heart received a ton of encouraging comments on this video. One commenter says, “This music is real genuine, and we do not have enough of it. Thank you gentlemen you’re the best” and another, “What a nice robust sound.Those voices are really moving some air. A very rich sound.” 

“My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.” - Psalms 57:7 

This beautiful Celtic song will bring you to tears and have you missing your own hometown. 

This YouTube video is a clip of Celtic Thunder performing ‘Song For the Mira.’ This performance took place in Kansas City in 2011. 

Celtic Thunder is a group of men from Ireland and Scotland ages 21-42 who feature songs that celebrate a common Celtic heritage. The first ever Celtic Thunder show occurred in Dublin, Ireland, in 2007, with the first CD released in 2008. 

As we can see with this performance, the men can create some magical music together with their amazing sets. As the men perform, we see an outline of a ship. It is almost as if they are singing on a ship or a deck near a ship. They also have a younger boy singing with them for this performance. 

The song they perform, ‘Song For the Mira,’ was written in 1973 by Allister MacGillivray. The lyrics talk about missing and longing for the Mira River region of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

“Out on the Mira on warm afternoons

Old men go fishin' with black line and spoons

And if they catch nothin', they've never complain

I wish I was with them again”

The lyrics talk about how wonderful and magical a place it is and how they hope to be back there again soon. When listening to the song, even if you have never been to the area, you can picture what a place like the Mira is like. The song may also remind you of times when you have missed your own home and yearn to be able to return to it someday. 

The song has been covered more than 300 times and gained popularity when Anne Murray released it in 1982. 

“A man's heart devises his way: but the LORD directs his steps.” - Proverbs 16:9

A young woman turned in an absolutely soul-stirring and moving performance of the beloved song “Goodness of God.”

Life is an experience that can often overwhelm. Many of life’s situations would have even the most level-headed and well-adjusted person crying out for help and guidance. Going through this life alone, without any assistance, is a near impossibility. 

Circumstances can leave people feeling like they are carrying the world's weight on their shoulders. Those are burdens that no one can and should attempt to handle themselves. Luckily, there is one who tells us to cast our worries, burdens and cares upon Him. 

Without God’s constant love, mercy and grace, no one would have a chance, and all would be lost. Or they would find themselves worn down and overburdened, weighed down without God’s assistance. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the young and talented Claire Crosby and the entire Crosby family perform a tune about God’s unfailing love, mercy and grace. The beautifully written lyrics of “Goodness of God” remind us about the powerful, mighty and faithful God we serve. 

“’Cause all my life, You have been faithful

And all my life, You have been so, so good

With every breath that I am able

Oh, I will sing of the good of God”

In life, some situations will pull, stretch and test your faith. There will be instances when you might question God’s plan or even if He’s still in control and at work. But we can all rest assured that He is still there during whatever we’re dealing with or going through. God is always loving and faithful, working in situations even when He appears absent. As the Bible tells us, God works for the good of those who love Him. We can all hold onto that promise during life’s trials and tribulations.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is true, who will give you strength, and keep you safe from evil.”