by MJR | Nov 1, 2021 | Genuine Hope
But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on those in prison, and...
by MJR | Oct 29, 2021 | Genuine Hope
This morning I listened as a friend described a funeral she attended last week for a close relative. At the end of the funeral service, they played a song by a well known hard rock band. I asked her why that song and she responded that he listened to that song...
by MJR | Oct 28, 2021 | Genuine Hope
Music is an essential element to cultures around the world. Songs communicate the stories of life. Certain songs may stir up memories and inspire us. I often write about songs that have influenced my life at one time or another. Quite often, a sermon will remind me of...
by MJR | Oct 27, 2021 | Genuine Hope
The goal for these daily thoughts is to encourage you in the Faith. We should have a genuine hope as followers of Christ, but there are days and seasons of life that are sometimes discouraging. In those times, it is all too easy to get caught up in the present turmoil...
by MJR | Oct 26, 2021 | Genuine Hope
I’ve said before that music has been instrumental (pardon the pun) for my life as a follower of Christ. Many years after I first heard his music and his unique voice, I was reintroduced to the music of Matthew Ward some time ago. The lyrics of “Knowing...
by MJR | Oct 25, 2021 | Genuine Hope
This evening, Patrina and I joined in for a “sing-a-long” with David Crowder at the Taft Theatre in Cincinnati. Once again, I was reminded of the power of music and lyrics to communicate and reach the human heart, including mine. Consider these words from...
