Monday, March 28, 2011

2011 Spring Friendraiser



Please join us in ministry by calling in your support!

410-543-9652 or toll free 877-569-9652

And you can give securely at WOLC.org

Thanks for being a part of the family!

Friday, March 25, 2011

Friday, March 25, 2011

Happy Friday on the Joy Ride!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Crystal Lewis




2011 marks 26 years of recording and performing as a Christian artist. Crystal Lewis has won countless awards, topped many radio charts and still is as relevant as ever! Crystal has released over 20 English albums and 7 Spanish albums - plus a children's record called Joyful Noise. Of course, she's done some fantastic Christmas albums as well and worked with her very own swing band called The Screaming Rays back in the swing resurgence of the late 90s.

Crystal recently stretcher her acting chops - playing the roll of The Gatekeeper in the Christian film The Wylds (based on John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress). She and her husband own and operate Metro One Records where they seek out new talent and work as producers. This journey began for Crystal Lewis when she was just 17 - and it doesn't appear to be slowing down any time soon!

Latest Album: Joyful Noise

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit


Q: What color was the stew Esau begged Jacob to give him?

A: Red (Genesis 25:30)

Congratulations, Kevin!

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Spring showers? Check. Now how about some Spring warmth?!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Kari Jobe




Kari Jobe knew at 10 that she would be a worship leader. Raised in a Christian home with a father who was a traveling minister, Kari began singing in church when she was 3. Through high school and college, Kari watched God set the path before her as she began leading worship in various places. She spent time studying at Oral Roberts University, Christ For The Nations and Dallas Baptist University, where she finished her psychology and Pastoral Ministries degree.

For the past six years Kari has been a worship pastor at her home church in Southlake, TX. She has been a featured singer on Gateway Worship projects and in 2009 released her self-titled debut album. "The album is about hope and life; it’s about lifting the broken off the floor and singing love over them" according to Kari.

Latest Album:
Kari Jobe

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: What prophet saw two female bears devour the children who had made fun of his baldness?

A: Elisha (2 Kings 2:24)

Congratulations, Caleb!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Happy Wednesday! The downward spiral towards the weekend has hit - but as my wife reminds me, "don't live for the weekend - just live!"

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Tammy Trent




Tammy Trent's ministry reaches all around the world, taking on such platforms as the Women of Faith and the Revolve Tour as a featured speaker and singer. And in Tammy's own words, "I commit my resources to outreach, service and ministry to help others discover a real relationship with Jesus Christ and to fully understand His promises and the eternal."

A powerful voice of hope comes with a heavy price. Tammy has been through unimaginable heartache. Her husband (Trent) died tragically in a scuba diving accident in 2001. Just as her career was taking off, life stopped.

Years removed from the tragedy, Tammy looks back and acknowledges God's constant presence through the despair: "There is hope. There is a future. God's got a bigger plan than any of us know. He's not surprised by any of this. I'm shocked. He's not surprised. My faith has been built on Jesus Christ. My hope has been built on Jesus Christ."

Latest Album:
Stronger

Children's Book:
The Log Family (Potty Training Book for toddlers)

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: In Luke's Gospel, who is the only apostle to actually investigate the empty tomb?

A: Peter (Luke 24:12)

Congratulations, GiGi!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY
What's New in Christian Music:


The Best Of David Phelps
by David Phelps | Genre: Southern Gospel

Closer
by Shawn McDonald | Genre: Adult Contemporary

Raising Up The Dead
by Caedmon's Call | Genre: Americana/Folk

Our God Is Near
by Brenton Brown | Genre: Praise & Worship

Echoing Angels
by Echoing Angels | Genre: Pop/Rock

Want more? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Aaron Shust



Aaron Shust is first and foremost a worship leader. In fact, he wrote his first hit songs for his home church. My Savior, My God was destined to be more than just a local favorite on Sundays. That song topped six different charts at once on its way to becoming the most played song of 2006 on Christian radio!

My Savior, My God earned Aaron Shust a trio of Dove Awards for “Song of the Year,” “Songwriter of the Year,” and “New Artist of the Year.” In no time, the Georgia-based songwriter was sharing the stage with the likes of superstars MercyMe, Bebo Norman, Casting Crowns, Michael W. Smith, Jeremy Camp, Brandon Heath, and TobyMac, in between his own headline stints!

Take Over is Aaron's third label release and continues to showcase honest, worshipful lyrics that come from the heart and mind of this songwriter/worship leader.

Latest Album:
Take Over

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: In John's Gospel, who is the first person to see Jesus' empty tomb?

A: Mary Magdalene (John 20:1)

Congratulations, Nate!

Monday, March 21, 2011

Monday, March 21, 2011

Happy Spring! It's the first day of Spring - and I'd like to personally ask you for prayer. Next week (beginning at 6:00 AM March 28th) we are holding our Spring Friendraiser. It's a call to everyone who has never before partnered with Joy - or perhaps it has just been a long time since you've committed to financially supporting this incredible ministry. Please pray for both your heart and the hearts of others to be willing to join in what God is doing through WOLC and The Manna.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Laura Story




Laura's voice is familiar in the Christian music world. She's been nominated twice as Female Vocalist of the Year at the Dove Awards. She wrote the No. 1 worship hit “Indescribable” recorded in 2004 by Chris Tomlin. She leads a women's ministry through the mega-Perimeter Church in Atlanta and her lyrics have permeated North American Church culture. But despite great success, she's had her trying times.

Shortly after marrying Martin Elvinton in 2006, Laura's husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor, kept alive at one point by breathing machines. How did these newly-weds survive? “Life is filled with things you don’t expect, but the Bible tells us to respond by trusting God and continuing to worship him,” Laura boldly states.

Her husband has since had a full healing and recovery, but through the scary times Laura wrote an album full of the hope that comes from faith. Blessings hits shelves in just a couple of weeks!

Offstage, she and Martin love to be outdoors, riding bikes or trekking their way through the book 50 Hikes in North Georgia.

Latest Album: Blessings (due out April 12th)

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Which Gospel records the graves opening after Jesus' death on the cross?

A: Matthew (Matthew 27:52-53)

Congratulations, Trish!

Friday, March 18, 2011

Friday, March 18, 2011

2 Days until Spring!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Tenth Avenue North




In 2009, Tenth Avenue North went from buzz-band to New Artist of the Year at the Dove Awards. Their debut (2008's Over and Underneath) had garnered radio attention - critical acclaim - and a hectic touring schedule. Critics weren't as pleased with their sophomore album "The Light Meets The Dark" (which I personally think is GREAT) but it still landed them more radio attention and secured the band in the pantheon of current power groups.

It all began for Tenth Avenue North when Mike Donehey and Jason Jamison met at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida. They recruited guitarist Jeff Owen and began booking themselves in churches and youth camps from Florida to Colorado. Again - if you are starting a Christian band - lead worship, play the retreat circuit and watch what happens!

Featured Music Video: The Light Meets The Dark

Latest Album:
The Light Meets The Dark

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: What Pharisee couldn't understand what Jesus meant by being "born again?"

A: Nicodemus (John 3:4)

Congratulations, Chris!

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Thursday, March 17, 2011

3 Days until Spring!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
After The Chase




Nathan and Jenna Strong are After The Chase. With a very post-modernist spin, After The Chase shares the Gospel through music and lyrics, with a strong focus on missions, social justice and the environment. They hope that their music showcases the power of a heart given to Christ - and the behavior that someone who loves and respects God's creation would show to others - even when they are very different from yourself.

They get their name "After the Chase" referencing God chasing down his bride (the Church). It is a romantic name - meant to help us recapture our First Love. After The Chase is really a part-time gig for the Strongs. Nathan still works full time in the tech industry and the couple lead worship at their church in California.

Latest Album: Make Me New

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Who angered his father (the king) by unwittingly breaking a fast while pursuing the Phillistines?

A: Jonathan (1 Samuel 14:24-27)

Congratulations, Sarah!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

4 Days until Spring!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Pocket Full of Rocks




In 1995, Michael Farren and drummer David Rollins started Pocket Full of Rocks to lead worship in their local Texas church. As time passed, the band branched out to colleges and churches throughout Texas and Arkansas. Later on teaming up with organizations like Street Rock Ministries, Pocket Full of Rocks began to crisscross the country from Washington, D.C., to California, leading worship at youth conferences and retreats.

Pocket Full of Rocks owes its name to a song from its early days. They wrote a song called Pocket Full of Rocks and became known as the Pocket Full of Rocks band at youth events. The story behind the song is the story of David—before he was ever a great king, he was simply a boy with a "pocket full of rocks," believing God would do something great using any of the small things he himself could offer.

Line-Up:
Michael Farren (vocals)
Alisa Farren (vocals, Michael's wife)
David Rollins (drums)
Jody Crump (bass)
Ryan Riggins (electric guitar)
Kyle Lee (rhythm and acoustic guitars)

Latest Album:
More Than Noise

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Who held a long feast when the 1st Jerusalem Temple was dedicated?

A: Solomon (1 Kings 8:65)

Congratulations, Matthias!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

5 Days until Spring!

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY
What's New in Christian Music


How Emptiness Sings
by Christa Wells | Genre: Adult Contemporary

Between Redemption and the Pain
by Gordon Gregory | Genre: Pop/Rock

The War Within Us
by Onward to Olympas | Genre: Hard Rock

Reviews and more? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Scott Krippayne




This Seattle based singer-songwriter has contributed more to Christian music than you can imagine! Not only has he had his own successful career of recording and touring - but over 150 of his songs have been recorded by other Christian artists including Point of Grace, John Tesh, Avalon, Jaci Velasquez, FFH, and Sandi Patty. Plus in 2007, he wrote This Is My Now with his pastor Jeff Peabody which was chosen as the coronation song for the final of American Idol Season Six.

Krippayne has also authored two books; Hugs for Teens and More Than A Story. More Than A Story is a daily devotional. While Scott could have easily stayed in Nashville and done the traditional CCM thing - he's joined a growing movement of his peers to relocate back to his hometown - work in his local church - and continue to use his gifts while focusing on his family.

Latest Pop Album: Gentle Revolution

Latest Worship Album: Exalted Worship

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Who tried to coax Joseph into going to bed with her?

A: Potipher's wife (Genesis 39:7)

Congratulations, Jean!

Monday, March 14, 2011

Monday, March 14, 2011

6 Days until Spring!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Addison Road




Addison Road formed when Jenny Chisolm met Ryan Simmons at Baylor University in Waco, TX. Originally called The Jenny Chisolm band - a few friends from church played with the band as they went to school. It wasn't long before Jenny Chisolm became Jenny Simmons (cause they got married...) and the band became Addison Road, named after a sound tech's baby.

The band led worship at Richardson First Baptist Church and played the youth retreat circuit in the South. In the spring of 2009,the band toured with the Rock and Worship Road Show, along with Jeremy Camp, MercyMe, Hawk Nelson, and Tenth Avenue North. However, Jenny was pregnant with her first baby and thus the group sang only one song per show. Still this was their big break - garnering more fans and connections with other groups.

Last year the band experienced some major set backs while on tour. Their tour van caught fire and they lost clothes, baby toys and sound equipment. However, fans and local churches around the country rallied for the band, buying new clothes and equipment for the band, who missed just a couple of shows during their tour, despite the crippling fire.

Latest Album: Stories

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Who cut off the ear of Malchus, the high priest's servant?

A: Peter (John 18:10)

Congratulations, Scott!

Friday, March 11, 2011

Friday, March 11, 2011

Happy Friday!

9 Days Until Spring!
Time to start prepping the lawn mower...

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Shane & Shane



These Texans average over 250 shows a year. Constant touring and ministry can be quite a drain on relationships, but these best friends have a lot of fun - and they bring their families on the road with them as much as possible. Shane Barnard and his wife Bethany Dillon (also a Christian recording artist) just welcomed their first child into the ever growing family circus that is Shane & Shane.

Latest Album: Everything Is Different

Want More? CLICK HERE

Have a GREAT weekend!

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Thursday, March 10, 2011

10 Days until Spring!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Natalie Grant




Natalie Grant is an award winning singer and songwriter. She's nabbed mulitiple female vocalist of the year awards at the Dove's and is never far from the top of the charts. Her latest album Love Revolution has already produced a handful of radio hits as well!

But Natalie is not afraid to take time off the road to simply be a wife and mom to her three kids. She is adamant about fulfilling those Biblical roles first and foremost - always keeping her famly before her incredibly successful career.

Beyond her artistry, Natalie Grant is an advocate for victims of human trafficking. The Home Foundation, which Grant created in 2005, has raised over a quarter of a million dollars to fight the trafficking of women and children for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

Latest Album:
Love Revolution

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: What cousin of Jesus was thrown into prison for criticizing the marriage of a king?

A: John the Baptist (Matthew 14:3-4)

Congratulations, Adrian!

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

11 Days until Spring!

TIPS FOR SPRING
HOME MAINTENANCE


1. Clean off and update the home entrance. Winter weather can wear down steps and railings. Painting the front door can radically change your curb appeal!

2. Clean off the roof and gutters. Debris can pile up and shorten the life span of your roof.

3. Check for water under the house. If you have a crawl space - get dirty and make sure water runs AWAY from your house.

4. Clean the inside garbage disposal and trash cans. Eliminate those odors so that your home can smell as fresh as Spring!

Want more? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY

Calling Glory



Calling Glory is a four piece band that started in early 2008 with one goal in mind, to write songs in response to what God has done and is doing in their lives. The band's prayer is that listeners will not only hear the gospel through their music but that those around them will also witness it at work in their own personal lives.

"We hope that we can not only encourage the body of Christ, but also challenge them to go deeper in their relationship with Him" - front man Dana Potvin.

Hailing from Athens, TN this group is still hammering it out, hoping for a big break. If you or your church is interested in booking the band, all they ask for is traveling expenses and a Love Offering. CLICK HERE to contact them.

Calling Glory is:
Dana Potvin - Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Keys
Jones Beene - Electric Guitar
Drew Crabtree - Bass
Sam Brocato - Drums

Latest Album:
Daylight EP

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: What prophet revived the son of the widow at Zarephath?

A: Elijah (1 Kings 17:8-24)

Congratulations, Richard!

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

12 Days until Spring!

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY
What's New In Christian Music:


Anthem Song
by Aaron Gillespie | Genre: Alternative/Worship

Passion: Here For You
by Passion Worship Band | Genre: Praise & Worship

Death, A Destination
by Demon Hunter | Genre: Hard Rock
*3-CD set of all of Demon Hunter's albums

Ad Astra Per Aspera
by Abandon Kansas | Genre: Rock

50 Year Celebration
by The Mighty Clouds Of Joy | Genre: Gospel

Want reviews? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Kutless




This Oregon based rock group is in the midst of a second musical career. After selling nearly 2 million records and touring the world as a preeminent Christian rock quintet, Kutless found a new voice producing quality worship records.

Their first worship album was Strong Tower - and not only was it a hit with critics and fans, but it revealed the true nature of Kutless' calling - to bring people closer to Jesus. In any industry there is pressure to repeat success and Kutless approached the matter hesitantly. They didn't want to produce another worship record just because everyone loved the first one. The band knew that worship has to be authentic. With much prayer and council from their pastors, Kutless created It Is Well.

This task required a great humility from a group of guys who started Kutless to make rock music. Kutless bass player Dave Luetkenhoelter said, "We let go of some of the expectations among ourselves and also realized the heart determines what is worship, not necessarily musical style . . . This isn’t about who we are but who God is."

Latest Album: Kutless: The Beginning

Want More? CLICK HERE

Featured Video: Everything I Need

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: According to the Law, what is the penalty for anyone who attacks his mother or father?

A: Death (Exodus 21:15)

Congratulations, Dan!

Monday, March 7, 2011

Monday, March 7, 2011

13 Days until Spring!

Beginning Monday (March 14th) a new Christian financial program called Money Wise will join the Joy! 102.5 programming family at 2:30 PM! Money Wise is hosted by Howard Dayton (of Hey Howard!).

ARTIST OF THE DAY
No Other Name




No Other Name is made up of brother/sister duo Sam and Laura - and their friend Chad. This trio met while attending Belmont University in Nashville. All three were quick to notice their musical chemistry and No Other Name was fashioned instantaneously! The three singers were able to trade off taking lead and harmonize with one another effortlessly.

No Other Name loves to perform at churches, where they work closely with church music ministers, choirs and revival leaders to seamlessly blend their style with the vision of the local church.

After 10 years of touring and recording, No Other Name was finally nominated for this year's New Artist of the Year at the 42nd Annual Dove Awards (airing Easter Sunday on Gospel Music Channel) - you can help them win! CLICK HERE to learn how.

Latest Album:
Lead You To The Cross EP

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit


Q: Who is the youngest son of Adam mentioned by name?

A: Seth (Genesis 4:25)

Congratulations, Alex!

Friday, March 4, 2011

Friday, March 4, 2011

And the weekend begins ... NOW!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Todd Agnew




In the span of 48 hours, Todd Agnew went from a single, touring musician to a home-owning married step-father of two. Life changes. Fast. And through it all, Todd learned that he will always need Christ. That need defines our existence - and that is why his new album is entitled Need.

The new relationships in Todd's life forever changed his attitude. He used to pride himself in busting down the doors with truth and flying out of town like a whirlwind. Now his wife has shown him the power of love and grace - seeking those relationships that bring real change in a person's life.

The Stories: CLICK HERE to hear Todd explain his new music.

Latest Album:
Need

Want More?
CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: At the dedication of Solomon's temple, 120 priests played what type of instrument?

A: Trumpets (2 Chronicles 5:11-14)

Congratulations, Pam!

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Thursday, March 3, 2011

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Chris Sligh




American Idol has become a spring board for some of today's best new Christian artists! Enter Chris Sligh. Idol was his introduction to America. And even though he didn't win AI - the spotlight led to his nabbing a Christian recording contract with Word Records.

“I chose to be in Christian music. I walked away from a mainstream record deal because I felt like this was where God had me.”

On top of writing, producing and touring with his own music and band - Chris Sligh also writes and produces for other groups. To date, he's written over 150 songs for a writing contract - including a Rascal Flatts hit "Here Comes Goodbye."

Latest Album:
The Anatomy of Broken

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Who looked out her window and was ashamed to see her husband (King David) dancing in the streets?

A: Michal (2 Samuel 6:16)

Congratulations, Jacqueline!

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

It's a beautiful day outside - but I know many are experiencing heartache and hard times. If that is you - we want to pray for you.

CLICK HERE to share your prayer requests and we will pray for you, specifically.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Justin Unger




Justin Unger wants to create - just like the Creator - "..as a songwriter I believe that each new melody and lyric is nothing shy of a miracle, and even a gift from the Chief Creator Himself."

Justin was raised in a Christian home in Phoenix, AZ. Justin says that it was in 8th Grade that he really made his faith in Christ his own. Middle School is usually a time when we search for our identity - and Justin found his identity solely in Jesus Christ. It was in the summer after 8th grade that Justin wrote his first song titled “To Know You Love Me” with his grandfather Larry Wright.

After winning a songwriting competition in Colorado in 2000, Justin moved to Nashville (still in high school) to nail down a recording contract with Atlantic Records. Justin joined the group Across The Sky and began touring - opening for Mark Schultz, Avalon, Downhere and many others. Two years of touring passed quickly. Justin got married and he and his wife welcomed their first child, Carson.

The Unger family then headed to Prescott, AZ where Justin became the worship leader at The Heights Church. Flash forward to today - Justin is still leading worship and recording and touring on the side. Now his family is four kids strong and life is full!

Latest Album:
Some Good Advice

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q: Who built a city called Enoch, east of Eden?

A: Cain (Genesis 4:17)

Congratulations, Josh!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Stepping into the driver's seat is Corey Franklin!
Tell Corey "hello" on our Facebook page.

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY
What's New In Christian Music:


Hundred More Years
by Francesca Battistelli | Genre: Pop/Rock
*featuring her latest hit "This Is The Stuff"

Know Hope Collective
by Know Hope Collective | Genre: Praise & Worship
*the new musical project from Audio Adrenaline's Mark Stuart and Will McGinniss

The Mission Field
by Blessid Union Of Souls | Genre: Pop/Rock

Tapestry
by Holly Starr | Genre: Adult Contemporary

The Valley
by Eisley | Genre: Pop/Rock

But wait, there's more! CLICK HERE for reviews and more new music!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
John Waller



John Waller's career began in the 1990s with his Christian rock band According to John. Now he's best known for his hit songs The Blessing and While I'm Waiting. The Georgia native and wife Josee headed to Colorado after A2J disbanded. There they helped launch Southlink Church. His second music career really soared with the movie Fireproof featured While I'm Waiting on its acclaimed soundtrack.

Joshua 24:15 is the inspiration for John's upcoming release. He has taken nearly two years to write and produce As For Me and My House saying, "You really have to walk with the Lord and you have to experience life and allow the Lord to teach you something."

If you visit johnwallermusic.com you can sign his The Joshua 24:15 Declaration - committing yourself and household to serving the Lord!

Free Song: CLICK HERE

Latest Album: As For Me And My House (Coming May 3, 2011)

Want More? CLICK HERE

Scriptural Pursuit

Q:

A: