You are Here (Dutton)

It's the coolest thing that's happened to me in the first quarter century of my life, so I don't mind sharing the link one more time. Here's a clip of this song being playing in outer space. Click forward to 0:58 to hear our friend, Shane, give us a shout out from the international space station:

STS-126 crew wake-up call, Flight Day 9

Christ is Risen (Matt Maher)

I met Matt Maher in 2005 when we were both community group worship leaders for the Passion Conference in Nashville. We had an immediate connection as I was good friends with his hero, David Crowder, and he was wearing a Darth Vader shirt that said "Who's you daddy?" What I love most about Matt is that he is a reminder of how much we have in common as Christians, if we remain focussed on the cross. Because Matt is not a southern Baptist, no. Matt isn't even a protestant. Matt, my friends, is...brace yourself...

Catholic (gasp!).

I've always relished the irony that a man from the Catholic Church, which is so often criticized for leaning on tradition over scripture, wrote a song called "Your Grace is Enough," which is one of the most Gospel-oriented songs being played in Protestant circles today. "Christ is Risen" is equally focussed on the cross, and is one more step in the process of unifying Christ's church.

Stronger (Hillsong)

I'm always encouraged, humbled, and strengthened when I hear about what's happening in Australia with Hillsong's ministry. Right now, you are sitting at your computer with, presumably, enough free time to be reading this worship blog. If you've been able to read this far, I would encourage you to take a few more moments and allow yourself to worship right where you are, in front of your computer, as you soak in God's presence with this video. And if you're by yourself, sing along. Out loud! Stronger - Hillsong 2008

When Heaven Came Down (Dutton)

If you've ever wondered what it's like to worship with us when we're on the road, this video is closest you will get to the experience. And 1:20 into it, you can hear the crowd singing the "Oh's" on this song: Dutton Worship Video #1

Our God (Chris Tomlin)

I was recently approached by a record label executive and asked about the music I write. After I poured out my heart, the executive informed me that worship music is "no longer the trend." I then informed the executive that "worship music" is the only eternal genre of music. She informed me that she was talking about current radio trends. I informed her that I only listen to my iPod, and then I conceded the argument. However, I was a little confused - after the conversation - when I looked at the charts and saw this song at #1. God will receive His glory long after worship music stops trending, but I am not going to take this era for granted. Passion, Hillsong, Chris Tomlin, and David Crowder albums consistently debut near the top of the secular Billboard 200 chart. To God be the glory.