How would you respond if an angel suddenly appeared before you? It seems in each case in the Bible the first words out of the Angel’s mouth is, “Fear not!” I’m not sure what kind of image comes to mind of what angel’s look like for you, but I’m sure with their sudden appearance there would be fear. I think…
The term “Evening Light” is an old Church of God phrase referring to the thought that we are in the last days. Christ’s return is imminent. Our men’s quartet group decided to call ourselves, “The Evening Light Quartet.” I’m not sure if that is communicating that we are senior adults in the group and we are in our evening light…
“God Heard My Prayer” was written back in 2017 when I was trying to work out the issue of God not always granting what I asked for in prayer. No matter how godly I thought the ask was there were times nothing happened. At that time our church was praying about whether to continue or close the church down. It…
One of the most significant acts of unity in the Church is in sharing Communion. Believers all over the world celebrate communion. It is the great reminder for all of us that Christ’s death is the reason we have forgiveness of sin. Communion is the one symbolic act that all Christians, no matter their theology, share. I had looked for…
Music Sheet: Come Thou Long Expected Jesus – Rejoice (2) Chord Sheet: Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus Video:
Just like “Babylon Has Fallen” this song was inspired while I was preaching through the book of Revelation. In Chapter 15:13-15 we find the “Song of Moses and the Lamb.” These verses celebrate the greatness of our God and His justice and holiness. I think this is a great worship song but also a wonderful statement of the underlying theme…
Back in 1998 when I was dabbling in music composition and I wrote a song for a Christmas program for my Church in Oceanside, CA, “Del Oro Hills Community Church.” We had great fun with it when the ladies of the Worship Team added some background vocals like “shoobee doowah” etc. This is written with the thought in mind that…
While writing a Christmas musical for my Church in Oceanside, CA, in the year 1999, the thought occurred to me that in my life at that time I wanted to worship at the manger. Joining the Shepherds and Wisemen all gathered around the manger. I wanted to experience that moment. From my perspective I know the whole story of birth…
After a few months of attending Lynchwood Church of God, Gresham, OR, I was invited to sing in a men’s quartet. I’ve not been a fan of Gospel Quartet music most of my life and have tried to avoid it whenever possible. However, after singing with these guys I’ve acquired a taste for it. In fact I’ve taken several of…
Years ago in Oceanside, CA, I preached a Sunday sermon talking about Joseph of Arimathea. It captivated my heart and imagination thinking about being the one who carried Jesus’ body off the cross. Consider that Joseph was not only a member of the Sanhedrin but also a believer in Jesus as Messiah. What a dramatic and deep emotional conflict must…
In 1999 I had ridden on a bike tour of the Oregon Trail with my brother, David Shrout. He’s the cyclist. I’m just the tag along. After my return I began thinking about my goals for the future. I had dabbled in composing off and on over the years but never really made a serious effort. I decided that year…
I wrote this song while preaching through the book of Revelation. I was working on someway to remember all the things that happen as a result of Babylon falling. I wrote it in a blues form since it seemed to be sad and victorious at the same time. It is both a warning and an invitation to the Church to…