Monday, April 30, 2012

How will you make the last day of April something special?

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jars of Clay

Jars of Clay formed in 1994, when Dan Haseltine and Charlie Lowell became friends at Greenville College. By the end of 1995, few had not heard their breakout song Flood. Ever since, this college rock band has pursued their art form with relentless touring, recording and writing.

While Jars of Clay's legacy as great songwriters is cemented, their latest album The Shelter is something a little different. They wanted something new to push their sound and their message past the wall of their own comfort zone. So they grabbed their friends who happen to be amazing song-writers and performers and got some fresh new ideas for song writing and recording. Making cameos as performers and/or song writers on The Shelter: Laura Story, Phillip LaRue, Mac Powell, Amy Grant, Brandon Heath, Leigh Nash, TobyMac, and more!

The Shelter broaches topics of social justice, per usual for Jars of Clay, but also a touch of something they have not focused on before: The Church. The Shelter is a love song to how the body of Christ can interact when following Christ in a broken world.

Album: The Shelter

Twitter: @jarsofclay

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Recording The Shelter



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SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  How many times did Elisha instruct Captain Naaman to dunk himself into the Jordan River to rid himself of leprosy?

A:  Seven times (2 Kings 5:10)

Whoo hoo! The latest Phillips, Craig & Dean album is head to Jamie in Delmar, MD!

Friday, April 27, 2012

Have a wonderful weekend!
Joelle is filling in for Josh today!



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.

Album: You Are My Child

Twitter: @afterthechase

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: No More (live)



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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Thursday, April 26, 2012

Next Thursday is the National Day of Prayer!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Salvador

Salvador is a jam band. More jazz influenced than anything else, they take the stage every night without a set list. They are prayed up and ready to see where the Holy Spirit will take them! The band hails from Texas and brings a country sensibility, with heavy Latin influences to their modern praise and worship music. And they are ok with a 10 minute guitar solo smack in the middle of the song!

Front man Nic Gozalez is married to Jaci Valasquez. It's safe to say that Christian music is their lifeblood. For the last couple of albums the guys have brought in some guest songwriters and expanded their creative process. It's been a freeing experience that has led to a more genuine worship experience for the band. And that's what a Salvador concert is all about: worship.

What's Up: Salvador is headed back into the studio for the first time in nearly four years!  By fall, expect an explosion of Latin flavored worship!

Bi-Lingual: Salvador usually releases their albums in both English and Spanish.

Album: How Far Is Heaven: The Best of Salvador

Twitter: @salvadormusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: What's going on with Salvador?



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What prophet was taken alive to heaven?

A:  Elijah (2 Kings 2:11)

Hooray for Tammy in Hurlock, MD!

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

How has the ministry of Joy 102.5 been a part of your life?
Share your story!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Holly Starr

Raised on a farm in the small town of Quincy, Washington, Holly Starr is not afraid of hard work. And that's good, because as an up-and-coming Christian artist she's got a hard path ahead of her! Her second full-length record, Tapestry was produced by Dove award winner Rusty Varenkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Meredith Andrews). She debuted in 2008 and has been putting thousands of miles on various vans, touring the United States and abroad.

Holly Starr is also focused on the global Church. She's worked with Compassion International ever since taking a missions trip to El Salvador.

Influences: Holly Starr is often reminded of the artists who have profoundly influenced her, a list including everyone from Superchick and Skillet to Nicole C. Mullen, Chris Tomlin and Mary Mary. She aspires to be that for other girls. As for her greatest influence, Starr says her older brother has had the most impact on her life. His shining example has been a steadfast beacon for Starr’s faith as she’s pursued her musical calling.

Family: During a trip to Israel, Holly discovered that she had Jewish ancestors. While leading worship in Israel, Holly met members of her grandmother’s family, whom she had never met and her grandmother hadn’t seen in over 60 years. She was able to reconnect the family members with her grandmother via Skype for a surprise reunion.

Awesome Quote: "Without [Grace] I am a flour-less pancake." - Holly Starr

Album: Tapestry

Twitter: @hollystarrmusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Don't Have Love



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who was Ruth's mother-in-law?

A:  Naomi (Ruth 1:1-2)

Congratulations to Scott in Fruitland, MD!

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Donde Te Encuentro (Where I Find You)
by Kari Jobe | Genre: Praise & Worship/Spanish

Crazy Noise
by Hillsong Kids | Genre: Children's

The Last Missionary
by Stephen the Levite | Genre: Rap

Holy Hip Hop, Vol. 13
by Various Artists | Genre: Rap

Convinced
by 737 | Genre: Rap

I’m Free EP
by N.F. | Genre: Rap

Best Of The Best
by Haste The Day | Genre: Hard Rock

Return To Life
by War Of Ages | Genre: Hard Rock

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE


 

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Travis Taylor

“I am a worship leader at heart, so I write songs for the worship arena,” Travis says. “But I also write songs about my wife; songs about my kids; songs that are just about everyday life. Of course there is an element of faith that runs throughout these songs, even when I’m not singing specifically about God. I think good music is good music and I don’t think people will be confused by hearing a love song next to a worship song on an album, as long as both are great songs.”

Travis leads worship for his church in one of the ritziest neighborhoods in Hollywood. A long way away from his Texas home.  According to Travis Taylor, and this might surprise you, there are some crazy Christ followers in SoCal.  It's not just the decadence of the Hollwood scene.  As a worship pastor, he encourages everyone, in whatever it is they do not put themselves in a box, and live boldly for Christ.

Travis is a part of The Relic Federation - an upstart record label out of Dallas, TX that is driven by a desire for God's presence.  He writes and records with a couple of different bands these days.

Album: Sundays Vol. 2

Twitter: @Travis_Taylor_

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Travis Taylor EPK



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What part of Adam's anatomy did God use to create Eve?

A:  A rib. (Genesis 2:22)

Way to go Trudy from Sharptown, MD!

Monday, April 23, 2012

It's the last week of April - are you ready for May?
Graduations, weddings and the kick start to summer!
It'll be a busy month, and we'll be here to help you keep focus on Christ!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Tommy Renfro

Tommy Renfro is just a small-town boy from Ohio who is pursuing a Christian music career in Nashville.  It's a career building around Renfro’s passions: Music, faith, hope, and love.

Tommy's latest single "Show & Tell" gave him his first points on the Billboard charts and he's racing to finish a new EP before Summer hits.  2012 could be the big break for Tommy Renfro's career!

Album: Til They Ask Why

Twitter: @tommyrenfro

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: I Won't Let Go



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
Email me and let me know!

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who predicted the destruction of the third Temple?
(Hint: this prophecy came true in AD 70)

A:  Jesus (Matthew 24:1-2)

Whoo hoo! Score for Rob in Lewis, DE!

Friday, April 20, 2012

Much of the Joy Ride has been off the air this afternoon as our Tower Climbers do work on-site.  It's a good thing the work is happening - but unfortunate that you can't hear the great music in your car!  But you can listen ANYTIME from our website: WOLC.org.  CLICK HERE to stream Joy 102.5!

Have a wonderful weekend!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jason Gray

Just like Moses, Jason Gray has become a leader in his field despite the odds stacked against him.  He grew up as a chronic stutterer in an abusive home, but through the Grace of Jesus Christ, struggles to make his music about loving people.

Jason Gray is from Minnesota (Ducks fly together!). It's cold in Minnesota. He spent six years in youth ministry before going into full time music ministry in 1999.  Besides writing and performing his own music, he has collaborated with many other artists including Sara Groves, Andrew Peterson, Joel Hanson, Jason Ingram and more!

His latest album is all about reaching those who feel cast asside.  “With all my songs, I want to be conscientious of the person who feels like an outsider, excluded because of their pain. I hope by acknowledging difficulty, heartbreak, and pain that I can cast a line for them to hold onto and be drawn in.”

Jason Gray also struggles with the pressure between art and business. "There is constant pressure in our entertainment oriented culture to be amazing and impressive," Jason says, "to wow audiences with gimmicks, to get on the charts. I wrestle against that because it can be a heart killer and completely irrelevant to God's calling in my life. I'd rather be real than impressive."

Album: A Way To See In The Dark

Twitter: @jasongraymusic

Tour: CLICK HERE 

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Remind Me Who I Am



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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Thursday, April 19, 2012

The best thing about Thursday is you know Friday is coming up next...

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Lincoln Brewster

Born and raised in a small town in Alaska, Brewster’s childhood was spent in a broken home. It was an environment darkened by his stepfather’s violent behavior and alcohol addiction. An environment from which Brewster and his mother sought solace in music.

As Brewster bonded with his mom through music, he began mastering a variety of instruments —including a stunning prowess on the guitar. It was this incredible talent that caught the attention of mainstream labels, landed Brewster a “gig” playing with rocker Steve Perry and earned him a mainstream record contract by age 19.

But God had other plans. After attending church with his high school sweetheart and now wife, Laura, Brewster yielded his life to Christ. Filled with a new passion and purpose, Brewster walked away from the promise of rock stardom to take a job at his
local church. This new trajectory eventually led him to a recording partnership with praise and worship label Integrity Music.

Lincoln's latest album is called Real Life. At its core, the album is about Grace. “My wife and I have been married for 16 years,” Brewster says. “My family is the biggest deal for me. I didn’t have strong male role models in my life as a kid. But God’s given me the courage to not let my past control my future… He’s given me the chance to be the father I never had and the husband I never saw modeled.”

Worship Stats: For Easter Sunday, Lincoln led worship for over 20,000 people in Sacremento, CA!

Album: Real Life

DVD: One on One (Vol 1 & 2)

Twitter: @lincolnbrewster

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Today is the Day



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What king of Babylon destroyed Solomon's Temple in 587 BC?

A:  Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 28:3)

Whoo hoo! Big win for Kayla in Seaford, DE!

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

How has the ministry of Joy 102.5 been a part of your life?
Share your story!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Chris Sligh

Chris Sligh entered the American Idol spotlight and earned a lot of fans.  Ultimately he didn't win the singing competition, but that time in the spotlight earned him a shot in the music industry.  While he could have written and performed in the secular market, Sligh felt called to use his talents to minister to Christians.

“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.” - Chris Sligh

Chris Sligh signed with Word records and has written and produced a couple of fantastic albums.  On top of his own music, Sligh writes and produces for other artists - in fact, he's penned over 150 songs for other musicians, both Christian and secular (including the Rascall Flatts hit Here Comes Goodbye.

“I’m not writing happy songs for you to clap along with,” he says. “I’m writing songs to challenge you to be a better person.” - Chris Sligh

More recently, Sligh has stepped out of the limelite to focus on being a husband and father - and most importantly a man of God.

Fun Fact: Chris was asked to play Shrek on Broadway, but it conflicted with his touring schedule.

Album: The Anatomy of Broken

Twitter: @ChrisSligh

Want More? CLICK HERE

Tumblr: CLICK HERE 

Video: Empty Me (live)



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?  Email me and let me know!

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  While King David envisioned the Temple, who actually had it constructed?

A:  Solomon

Way to go Carolyn from Tangier, VA!

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Pray for our tower crew as they continue their work.  We are still operating at low power, so if you can't pick us up on the home radio - try streaming the station via WOLC.org!

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

Love Come To Life
by Big Daddy Weave | Genre: Pop/Rock

Rebel Transmission
by Newworldson | Genre: Adult Contemporary

Swell
by Deluge | Genre: Praise & Worship

I Choose Jesus
by Moriah Peters | Genre: Pop/Rock

Live From The Carson Center EP
by Josh Wilson | Genre: Adult Contemporary

The Sounds Of Daniel Bashta Deluxe
by Daniel Bashta | Genre: Praise & Worship

Big Band
by John Tesh | Genre: Adult Contemporary

Say It Now EP
by Julianna Zobrist | Genre: Pop/Rock

2X Skillet
by Skillet | Genre: Rock
*a remix album

The End is Where We Begin
by Thousand Foot Krutch | Genre: Rock

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Planetshakers

Planetshakers is a Christian youth movement that began as an annual conference and grew into an international ministry and large church in Melbourne, Australia. Now Planetshakers also has its own bible college which is located in several campuses throughout Australia. The first conference held in Adelaide in 1997 had 300 delegates, growing to reach 20,000 nation-wide by 2004.

Growing internationally, Planetshakers now also runs conferences in Malaysia, Singapore and South Africa, with a desire to expand to the United States of America. The main worship band has an ever rotating group of members - and at one time featured Australian Idol winner Guy Sebastian.

This Church/Band/Ministry now has 9 full time ministries including a massive outreaches to kids, youth, women and men.

Album: Heal Our Land

Twitter: @planetshakers

Conference: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: This Love



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
Email me and let me know!  onair@wolc.org

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who became angry when the people of Nineveh repented after he preached to them?

A:  Jonah

Way to go Dawn in Milton, DE!

Monday April 16, 2012

SPRING FRIENDRAISER!

Due to continued tower/antenna work, we are still broadcasting at a greatly reduced power.  Since a large portion of the Joy 102.5 family cannot even hear the station, we are postponing Spring Friendraiser until we are back up and running at full power.  But you can still give...

You can help the ministry by making a one-time or monthly gift right now!  You can CLICK HERE to make a safe and secure contribution online.

We are so grateful to each person, family and business that makes listener supported Maranatha, Inc. a multimedia outreach, spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to our neighborhoods and our world!


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 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 and a trio of Dove Awards for “Song of the Year,” “Songwriter of the Year,” and “New Artist of the Year.”

After living in Atlanta for ten years, in early 2010 he and his wife made the decision to pull up stakes and and move their young family back to Aaron’s Pennsylvania hometown. In less than a year, he was invited to take on the role of worship leader in the church he had grown up in.

“It’s a little church,” says Aaron. “No fancy lights, doesn’t have a great sound system. But it’s a part of the fabric of my life and my family’s life. My grandmother went to that church. My family has generations of roots there. It’s where I first heard the gospel and was baptized. I feel like this is my home, and these are my people."

The support of their local church became critical to Aaron and his wife as they walked through their son’s medical issues. Diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a rare and extremely painful condition, two-year-old Nicky was unable to take in any nutrition.  After many failed treatments, Nicky responded to some medication.  It was a mixed blessing because the treatment would require him to be on strong medications and steroids for all of his life.  Then came a miracle.  Their son’s tests came back normal. It was as if he’d never even had the condition. What was considered to be a permanent disease seemed to have disappeared. The doctor could offer no explanation as to why.

Album: This Is What We Believe 

Twitter: @aaronshust

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: To God Alone



What artists would you like to hear featured on The Artist of the Day?
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SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who predicted that the Savior would be born in Bethlehem? (Clue: It wasn't Isaiah or Zechariah)

A:  Micah (Micah 5:2)

Whoo hoo! Big win for Jan in Seaford, DE!

Friday, April 13, 2012

Have a wonderful weekend!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Parachute Band

Frontman Omega Levine and Drummer/Producer Sam de Jong formed New Zealand’s Parachute Band in 2007, picking up from where the original Parachute Band (1996-2006) had left off. Already, the band has toured relentlessly throughout America, Africa, Asia, the UK and Europe.

From their inception, Parachute Band’s intent has been to take New Zealand’s leading worship songs and introduce them to the world. Grammy Award-winning worship outfit Casting Crowns recorded a version of the band’s song ‘Mercy’ on their album Until the Whole World Hears.

History: Parachute Band are an integral part of Parachute Music; a globally reaching Christian music organisation in New Zealand. Parachute Music runs training events for musicians, artist management and bookings, a recording studio, and the high-profile Parachute Festival which annually attracts over 25,000 people.

Matins & Vespers: The new album title references a worship tradition of the early church.  They participated in the discipline that mimicked the cycle of the day.  Matins are the morning songs of praise with the sunrise - to stir the soul and declare God's goodness.  Vespers are evening prayers of quiet personal worship.

Album: Matins: Vespers 

Twitter: @parachuteband

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Saviour of the Broken Heart



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who was swallowed by a big fish and then thrown up on dry land?

A:  Jonah

Score for Ann in Mears, VA!

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Pray for our tower crew as they tackle some work at our transmitter site!

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Big Daddy Weave

Formed at the University of Mobile, the quintet—Mike Weaver, Jay Weaver, Joe Shirk, Jeremy Redmon and Jeff Jones—has earned a reputation both for the musical conviction that has carried their songs to the top of the charts and for the joy and passion that have made their live performances such moving and memorable experiences.

The new album Love Come To Life is three years in the making and has literally gone through the fire...  A devastating fire swept through guitarist/producer Jeremy Redmon's house and studio.  That along with health issues, exhaustion and a number of other trials have served to deepen the faith of this band of brothers (technically Mike and Jay are brothers).

Jeff the drummer adds that this new album is by far the most intimate look into what God has been doing in the lives of the band-members.  Mike Weaver says, "This is a record of the realities of life and of how God is faithful, always.”

Big Daddy Weave is:
Mike - Songwriter/Lead Vocals/Guitar
Jeff - Drums
Jay - Bass/Vocals
Joe - Saxophone/Keyboards
Jeremy - Guitars/Vocals

Album: Love Come To Life (Due out April 17th!)

Twitter: @bdwmusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: What Life Would Be Like



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  How many people did the king see inside the fiery furnace?

A:  4

Way to go Josh!  See you at the Agnew/Diaz show in 2 weeks!

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Josh Wilson

Josh Wilson grew up the son of a preacher in Lubbock, Texas. His debut album Trying to Fit the Ocean in a Cup became one of 2008's biggest success stories. The album was called “the future of Christian pop." and his songs Savior Please and Before the Morning rocked Christian radio coast to coast. This year, Josh Wilson released See You - which has already garnered him awards and accolades, along with radio hits.

“Faith is being sure of what we hope and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1

The tension between faith and sight is what See You is all about. Josh is quite the accomplished musician, playing 20 instruments on the record, including, ukulele, hammered dulcimer, and the glockenspiel!

I Refuse evolved as Josh was reading David Platt’s book, Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream. While reading the book, Nashville was hit with a huge flood. It was devastating to Josh's community and spurred him to not just cop out with prayer and go along his merry way - but to step out in action to help his community.

Awards: Last month at the ASCAP Christian Awards (held in Nashville), Josh Wilson was awarded for his songs I Refuse, Fall Apart and Jesus Is Alive - PLUS at the end of the night we was awarded as the ASCAP's Songwriter/Artist of the Year!

Album: See You

Twitter: @joshwilson

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Fall Apart (acoustic)



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Why were Daniel's friends thrown into the fiery furnace?

A:  They refused to bow to a golden statue of the king. (Daniel 3:14-15)

And the tickets go to... Richard in Delmar, MD!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

The Moment We’ve Been Waiting For
by FIKE | Genre: Praise & Worship

Heal Our Land
by Planetshakers | Genre: Praise & Worship

Center Of It All
by Desperation Band | Genre: Praise & Worship

Fearless
by Travis Ryan | Genre: Praise & Worship

Safe Place
by Kristene Mueller-DiMarco | Genre: Praise & Worship
*From Jesus Culture

Manifesto [We Believe]
by Various Artists | Genre: Praise & Worship

Precious Memories
by Alan Jackson | Genre: Country

Musical Revival
by Forever Jones | Genre: Gospel

Fighter
by Manafest | Genre: Rock

X 2012
by Various Artists - "X" Series | Genre: Rock

True Defiance
by Demon Hunter | Genre: Hard Rock

The Good Life
by Trip Lee | Genre: Rap

My Story
by Papa San | Genre: Reggae

Kind Of A Big Deal
by Chonda Pierce | Genre: Comedy


WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Point of Grace

Point of Grace first came to be 19 years ago at Ouachita Baptist University. Despite nearly two decades of Christian music stardom, at it's essense are women who are trying to live their lives right, be good wives and raise their children the best they can. In conjunction with their new album, they released a new cookbook, Cooking with Grace, featuring personal photos and stories to help raise money for an African orphanage.

The two-time Grammy nominees have sold more than 6.5 million albums and earned 24 consecutive No. 1 singles (27 total), a feat unmatched by any artist in any genre. They’ve also won 10 Dove Awards.

The title track of their upcoming album A Thousand Little Things was actually the last song written for the album.  Something felt incomplete and after a meeting with their producer the group began to flesh out what was missing - a sense of gratitude.  So with an ever growing list of things the women found themselves grateful for, the song was born and ultimately became the crowning jewel of the entire album.

Album: A Thousand Little Things (due out May 2012)

Twitter: @PointofGrace

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: How You Live (acoustic)



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  What kingdom took over Israel and took Daniel and others captive?

A:  Babylon (Daniel 1)

No correct answer!?  I'm shocked!

Monday, April 9, 2012

I hope your Easter was memorable and worship-filled!
If you have yet to connect to a local expression of the body of Christ - let us help!
CLICK HERE for our Area Church Directory.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Francesca Battistelli

Francesca Battistelli's last couple of years were more like a whirlwind than actual time! Bursting onto the scene with My Paper Heart, an album so rich with sincerity and filled with radio hits, made 2010 something of an out of body experience. And to think this was not the life Francesca set out for ...

At only six years old, Francesca was an aspiring actress. She longed to be on Broadway - singing and dancing and acting. Francesca’s passion for life on the stage wasn’t all that surprising, given her mom and dad’s extensive theater background. In fact, they met when her dad was the assistant conductor for the national tour of “The King and I,” while her mom played Anna, the show's female lead opposite Yul Brynner.

And when Francesca was 15, she put her skills to good use in an all-girl mainstream pop group in Orlando, an experience that helped pave the way for what she does today. But when the gig eventually ended, Francesca says she was thankful for an opportunity to clear her head. “Not long after, I recharged my batteries by going to this youth ministry that I absolutely loved,” Francesca shares. “It was there where the Lord really captured my heart for Christian music. I started playing guitar and really longed to bring something authentic to the scene that even non-Christians could listen to.”

Inspiration for Hundred More Years: “We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”—E.M. Forester

Francesca married Matthew Goodwin in 2009 (he plays drums for her band now) and they welcomed baby Matthew into the family this past September. The 2009 Dove Female Vocalist and New Artist Of The Year released her sophomore album Hundred More Years, featuring the hits This is the Stuff, Motion of Mercy and the brand new Angel By Your Side.

Album: Hundred More Years

Twitter: @francescamusic

Tour: CLICK HERE  (She's in Marlton, NJ April 29th!)

Want More? CLICK HERE 

Video: This Is The Stuff



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Isaiah compared the wickedness of Jerusalem to what two cities destroyed during Abraham's time?

A:  Sodom & Gomorrah (Isaiah 1:8-13)

Big win for Nahan on Princess Anne, MD!  Tune in all week for special Todd Agnew & Jonny Diaz prizes (including concert tickets)!

Friday, April 6, 2012

The Good Friday Joy Ride is all about worship.

Easter Sunday is coming up!
Need a place to worship?
Visit our Area Church Directory.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Addison Road

Jenny Chisolm met Ryan Simmons at Baylor University in Waco, TX. They began writing songs together and not long after the group started booking shows. Ryan played acoustic guitar and Jenny sang. It became apparent that they needed a full band, so they enlisted a couple of friends: Jay Henderson on drums, and a friend from church, Ryan Gregg, on lead guitar. Thus was born The Jenny Chisolm Band.

In 2002, Ryan and Jenny were married, and they moved to Dallas to become a full-time band. Eventually they changed their name to "Addison Road." It was named after a sound tech who had a baby named Addison. They liked the name Addison and put Road at the end of it for no real reason. Jenny just didn't want to be the moniker that the band went by anymore.

The band's line-up has shifted from time to time, but Jenny and Ryan are still at the core. in 2010 the band held a YouTube competition to fill an opening on drums! After many tryouts, the band invited Richard Scott into Addison Road! Pretty cool way to join an established Christian group!

Big Break: Addison Road got their big break when MercyMe invited them to join the Rock 'n Road Worship show.  At the time, Jenny was very pregnant and the band usually only did one song each night of the tour - but still made a big impact and they continue to gain momentum!

Album: Stories 

Twitter: @addisonroad

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: This Little Light of Mine

Thursday, April 5, 2012

HISTORY LESSON

What is Maundy Thursday?

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Laura Story

Laura Story wrote the No. 1 worship hit “Indescribable” recorded in 2004 by Chris Tomlin, married a handsome athlete named Martin Elvington the next year, and began working in music and women’s ministry at the 4,000-member Perimeter Church in Atlanta. After signing an artist deal with the INO Records, her 2008 national debut won a Dove Award for Inspirational Album and earned Laura two consecutive nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year—all blessings, indeed.

But amidst that success a brain tumor hospitalized her husband in 2006. The faith Story sang about was put through the unexpected fires of fear and loneliness; most young newlyweds don’t imagine being kept alive at one point by breathing machines or having to find their way through significant post-operative vision and memory loss.

Throughout it all, Laura's faith kept her focused on Jesus. It's that faith that is explored through lament and praise on her new album Blessings. Offstage, she and Martin love to be outdoors, riding bikes or trekking their way through the book 50 Hikes in North Georgia. She also meets women from church for coffee a couple of times during the week, talking one-on-one about the lessons their congregation explores in Sunday worship. And it all pours back into her musical gift.

Blessings abound as Laura is expecting her first child and won her first GRAMMY Award this year!  I expect she'll sweep the Dove Awards where she's nominated for just about everything.

Album: Blessings

Devotional: What If Your Blessings Came Through Raindrops?

Twitter: @LauraStoryMusic

Tour: CLICK HERE  (Her Spring tour features Mandisa & Brit Nicole - it's called Girl's Night Live)

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Video Tutorial: Immortal, Invisible



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  How did Haman plan to retaliate for Mordecai's failure to bow to him?

A:  He wanted to have Mordecai (and all the other Jews) hung on the gallows. (Esther 3)

Way to go Lisa in Melfa, VA!

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Easter is just a few days away.
How are you preparing your heart for this most important celebration?
We'd love to pray for you.
CLICK HERE and let us know how we can cover you in prayer.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Christ for the Nations

Christ For The Nations is an international, interdenominational organization which exists to train and equip men and women with the Word of God in the power of the Holy Spirit and with a lifestyle of worship, to reach the nations with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Worship Leaders Nicole C. Mullen, Kari Jobe, Russ Taff, Tommy Walker, Kevin Jonas and many more have been both trained and equipped to spread the heart of worship around the world through Christ for the Nations. Christ For The Nations Institute (CFNI) started out with a group in 1972 called the "Luminaires" and quickly broke into multiple focussed groups of ministry. Every year, since 1974, Christ For The Nations has been producing live album recordings that are created out of the students, staff, and alumni's hearts. Some of the music that has come out of Christ For The Nations include songs "As The Deer Panteth For The Water" by Marty Nystrom, and "When I Think About The Lord" by James Huey.

Providing resources for the completion of church buildings, caring for orphans, supporting the nation of Israel, humanitarian relief efforts, establishing and strengthening international Bible schools and the distribution of Christian literature. On top of that multi-layered ministry is the CFNMusic label, producing modern worship music and training worship leaders to carry the cause of Christ around the world.

Album: 37

Twitter: @CFNMusic

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: Christ for the Nations Worship Conference 2012



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Whom did Elijah revive from the dead at the home of the widow in Zarephath?

A:  Her son.  (1 Kings 17:20-22)

Score for Christine in Laurel, DE!

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

NEW RELEASE TUESDAY

October Baby Motion Picture Soundtrack
by Various Artists | Genre: Pop/Rock

Into The Glorious
by Christy Nockels | Genre: Praise & Worship

For You From You
by Dan Macaulay | Genre: Praise & Worship

Heartache To Hope
by Holly Spears | Genre: Pop/Rock

Number 1's Volume 1
by Steven Curtis Chapman | Genre: Adult Contemporary

Working on a Building
by Various Artists | Genre: Country

I Win
by Marvin Sapp | Genre: Gospel

Once In A Lifetime
by Smokie Norful | Genre: Gospel

Worship Soul
by Anita Wilson | Genre: Gospel

Love On The Outside EP
by Willet | Genre: Rock

Plans Within Plans
by MxPx | Genre: Punk

X 2012
by Various Artists - "X" Series | Genre: Rock

Something Cold EP
by Phao | Genre: Rock

Dangerous
by KJ-52 | Genre: Rap

WANT MORE? CLICK HERE

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Jadon Lavik

Jadon was born in Redmond, Washington, where he was raised in a Christian home with his parents and two siblings. Although he had some experience with music early in life playing violin and guitar, he was most energized about sports and desired to pursue a baseball career. But after an internship at Saddleback church in Southern California, the calling on his life became glaringly obvious.

Jadon Lavik's seminary background gives him a true concern with using Biblical theology in his worship songs. It is sometimes easier for a songwriter to go with what feels good. Spiritual candy. But Jadon deals with the depths of God's word in his writings.  Now married with two kids, Jadon ministers in the local church and tours the country playing music whenever he can.

Studio: Jadon is working on a new hymns album due out this Fall!

Album: Art & Soul 

Twitter: @jadonlavik

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

Video: To The Cross - a tutorial



SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who hid a hundred prophets in caves to prevent them from being killed by Jezebel?

A:  Obadiah (1 Kings 18)

Hooray for Don in Salisbury!

Monday, April 2, 2012

The countdown to Easter is on!
Have family coming into town?
Are you traveling this week?
Please be safe and know our prayers are with you.

ARTIST OF THE DAY
Living Anthem

The word Anthem means “a song or hymn of praise”. Collectively and as individuals the band says it's their hearts' cry to not only lift up God through song but with every aspect of their lives.  They strive to lead the church in the pursuit for us to all live our anthem!

Living Anthem consists of: Matt Seagle, Lucas Budde, Toby Holloman and Jeff Bowman.

Indie Life: The band recently parted ways with their label (ala Switchfoot) to run their band in house.  They have been recording new music over the past couple of months, hoping for a late summer release for fans.

Album: How Beautiful The Cross EP

Twitter: @LivingAnthem

Tour: CLICK HERE

Want More? CLICK HERE

SCRIPTURAL PURSUIT

Q:  Who is believed to be the author of Ecclesiastes?

A:  Solomon

Way to go Judy from the sunny shores of California!  Well, California, MD...