Gary Durbin Blog

Josh Hoops

2012-01-28T15:16:00.000-05:00

Word Wednesday.::181

2012-01-25T11:39:00.002-05:00

Revelation 22:12 NIV

"Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done."

If the reward you're after has already come, then you're missing the true reward of life.....Jesus.

What's your Word?

Word Wednesday.::180

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

I John 5:2 NIV

"This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands."

Loving God will make us love others. If we love Him, we will love like He loves and whom he loves. This is obedience to God.

What's your Word?

Word Wednesday.::179

2012-01-11T11:06:00.002-05:00

I Peter 1:18-19 NIV

¹⁸ For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, ¹⁹ but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.

In other words...."Take the world, but give me Jesus."

What's your Word?

Word Wednesday.;;178

2012-01-04T10:58:00.002-05:00

Word Wednesday.::177

2011-12-28T18:33:00.002-05:00

Twilight in Four Seconds

2011-12-26T20:57:00.001-05:00

Big Christmas

2011-12-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

One of my Christmas presents this year is NBA games all day today.

Christmas Playlist

2011-12-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

What's on your Christmas playlist?

My Gotta Watch Christmas Flicks

2011-12-23T19:54:00.006-05:00

Every Christmas there's movies that I've just gotta watch.

Here's my picks:

What are the flicks you've just gotta watch every Christmas season?

Word Wednesday.::176

2011-12-21T15:58:00.003-05:00

Word Wednesday .::175

2011-12-14T10:26:00.002-05:00

Sunday Setlist 12.11.11

2011-12-11T11:24:00.000-05:00

Setlist with itunes links:
O Come All Ye Faithful
Everything Glorious
The Least I Can Do
Jesus Messiah

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

I Am a Celtic

2011-12-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Gotta Watch those Bylaws

2011-12-08T09:00:00.002-05:00

"After repeated conflicts with his church board about the direction of Family Life Center, pastor Dave Chandler decided to leave the church. But on his way out he used a little-known clause in the bylaws to singlehandedly hire a new worship leader: Bill MacNerny who specializes in “alien folk music” and “tunes for chickens and other intelligent beings.”

Click here to read the full article.

Wow...better check those bylaws every once in a while.

Word Wednesday .::174

2011-12-07T08:51:00.002-05:00

"Reason to Sing"

2011-12-05T19:39:00.001-05:00

Here's the new single from one of my favorite new groups, All Sons and Daughters. I can't wait to hear their new EP.

Sunday Setlist 12.04.11

2011-12-04T23:02:00.002-05:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Hosanna (Praise is Rising)
In Christ Alone
Here I am to Worship
Uncreated One

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Winter Wonderland with a Mraz Twist

2011-12-02T00:08:00.002-05:00

My buddy Mark Roach in a cool, creative video and song. Love it!

From the Attic

2011-12-01T11:26:00.015-05:00

Well, it's packing time for the Durbins. If you haven't heard, we're moving to Denver, Colorado. Last night, I decided to clean out the attic, and I had a blast to the past. Here's a few items I found...

You know you're getting old when YOUR sports cards are becoming legitimate collectibles.

This is one of my favorite gifts from my childhood. Jordan vs. Bird...I wanted this game so bad, and I'll never forget the day my Dad bought it for me.
This was before the GameBoy days...and it still works!

Last, but not least...this is a video that my friend Kurk and I made full of SNL type sketches we did in high school. We had a lot of fun doing these.
I'm definitely going to post some of these on YouTube.

Now, the attic is empty. I said goodbye to it when I closed the attic door.

Word Wednesday .::173

2011-11-30T09:00:00.003-05:00

BIG NEWS

2011-11-29T21:37:00.001-05:00

Gobble, Gobble

2011-11-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Here's my son in his school's play this week. He dances like his Dad.

Word Wednesday .::172

2011-11-23T14:16:00.003-05:00

Book Review - Lucky

2011-11-21T20:38:00.009-05:00

Lucky by Glenn Packiam

Luck is such an interesting, multifaceted word. We use it by attributing someone's success to chance. We also use it in an envious way. We express jealousy over someone else' good fortune by saying, "They are so lucky." In Glenn Packiam's new book, Lucky, he explores my latter explanation of this interesting word into a spiritual realm.
This book is a great, thought-provoking exploration of the be-attitudes. He points out that the greek origin of the word "blessed" is "makarios", which is actually a secular term that Jesus used to express the idea of "happy or fortunate". I loved the thought process that Glenn exudes about the word "blessed". It's definitely a word that gets inserted way too quickly into conversations.
The heart and message of the book is to help us understand that as sons and daughters of God, we are blessed or fortunate or....lucky. Glenn says, "Jesus meant for His sermon to be viewed as the way to live as the people of God, not the way to become the people of God."
This is a challenging read that will inspire you to see the Kingdom of God come through your life, so as to worship our Lord and also to be a blessing to others. He goes on to say, "Carrying hope to the hopeless, being a blessing to all peoples is our original design, a design now restored to us in Christ."
I loved this book as much as Glenn's last one, called Second Hand Jesus. It's challenging, thought-provoking and educational.

Click here to get it today. You won't be sorry...you'll be lucky.

Word Wednesday .::171

2011-11-16T09:47:00.002-05:00

Album Review - Hymns & Sacred Songs

2011-11-15T16:16:00.014-05:00

Hymns & Sacred Songs by Leigh Nash

So...all I needed to hear was the name Leigh Nash. Anyone that knows that name, will probably be intrigued by her new album & will most likely be pleased with it.

On her newest release from Kingsway Music, she has done a project that just makes sense. Hymns & Sacred Songs is a beautiful marriage between Leigh's voice and some very rich songs.

It's a very universal album. I think this will speak to all kinds of people in all kinds of walks. The track that stuck with me first was her version of "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing". I absolutely loved the arrangement, recording, and the melody change. Great stuff!

I was pleasantly surprised to hear the song "Power of the Cross", which is a Getty's song. I really hope to see this song gain some more traction because of this recording. It's just an awesome song.

If you're a Sixpence None the Richer fan, this is a no brainer. Get it and enjoy it!

Click here for Itunes to purchase "Hymns & Sacred Songs" today.

Sunday Setlist 11.13.11

2011-11-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Setlist with itunes links:
All Because of Jesus
You Alone Can Rescue
Give us Clean Hands

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Word Wednesday .::170

2011-11-09T09:43:00.002-05:00

20 years ago today...

2011-11-07T09:48:00.002-05:00

...I was, ironically, yet typically playing basketball in our church gym. I was in Junior High and my youth pastor walked in the gym & said, "Magic Johnson has aids." I thought he was kidding. I didn't believe him for a while. I don't think I really, truly believed it until I watched the press conference. As a die-hard Celtics/Larry Bird fan, I had a huge connection to Magic. He was our ultimate rival. It was devastating. It's cool that 20 years later he's still with us. He really brought a lot of awareness to the subject. The video below is from a documentary about Larry & Magic. It's probably the most impacting moment on the film when Magic shares how Larry was there for him, when most of his "friends" turned their backs on him.

Sunday Setlist 11.06.11

2011-11-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Our God Saves
God is Able
Jesus Paid it All
How He Loves

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Tebowing

2011-11-04T08:38:00.002-04:00

I'm not a huge Tim Tebow fan, but I definitely admire his character. He's been consistent, and that means a lot.

What's your thoughts on the whole Tebowing craze?

"Heal Me" on CCLITV

2011-11-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

One of my new songs, "Heal Me" is on CCLITV. You can click here and go check it out. It's a video from one of our worship services at Bethany. Let me know what you think of the new tune.

Word Wednesday .::169

2011-11-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

Album Review - Economy

2011-11-01T07:39:00.009-04:00

Economy by John Mark McMillan

WHOOOA....Economy is.....WHOOOA.

To be honest, I was a little nervous about this project, because The Medicine was soooo good. Sophomore albums, to me, are the ones that tell us if this artist is the real deal. It seems to be easy to release a first major label album, because you already have the best songs. The question is, can they bring more to the table in the next couple of years?

I really believe that John Mark McMillan is the real deal. He's certainly brought some more to the table on his new album, Economy. The sign of a good song is if it grows on you. There's a lot of that on this album. It didn't initially hit me the first time through listening to it, but the more I listened, the more I loved. Great writing!

The first song that hit me was "Love You Swore". All I could think of was "Secret Garden" by Bruce Springstein, which is an incredible compliment. As far as corporate worship, "Who is This" has probably the best chance to make it into some church services. The other stand outs were "Our Hearts Bleed", "Sheet of Night", and "Daylight"......which brings me to my first critique. I really didn't prefer how the album started. I would've like to have heard "Daylight" right out of the gate.

My only other critique is.....WHOOOOA.....there was a lot of.....WHOOOOA on this album. Don't get me wrong....I catch myself singing everyone of the WHOOOOA, but it may have been a little overkill, in my humble opinion.

I think the best thing I can say is, if you liked his first album, The Medicine, you'll love Economy. A truly solid Christian album that doesn't sound like Christian radio.

Great job Integrity and John Mark!

Click here for Itunes to purchase "Economy" today.

Sunday Setlist 10.30.11

2011-10-30T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
The Earth is Yours
Mighty to Save
Keep the Faith
You are My King

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

S-A-T-U-R-D-A-Y

2011-10-29T11:35:00.000-04:00

Word Wednesday .::168

2011-10-26T10:05:00.002-04:00

Word Wednesday is posted every Wednesday. Each week I post a scripture that I've read that week that has spoken to me in a fresh way. I believe that if we read God's Word every day, He will give us at least one scripture every week that will impact us. Sharing Scripture with each other is like iron sharpening iron. Leave a comment and share a scripture that has impacted you this week.

Here's the scripture that stuck this week:

Acts 28:1-6 NIV

Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. ² The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. ³ Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. ⁴ When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, the goddess Justice has not allowed him to live.” ⁵ But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. ⁶ The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead; but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.

A couple things stick out to me. First, it shows how judgmental people can be and how quick they can be judgmental. They didn't know Paul, but they quickly became experts on him and his past based on the subjective, present circumstances. Secondly, it shows how people tend to extremes instead of balance. Not only did they change their judgment on him, but they went the total extreme other way. First, he must be a murderer, and then he must be a god. There is zero balance here. Same old story still happens today. It seems like we'll never learn.

What's your Word?

Sunday Setlist 10.23.11

2011-10-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Happy Day
God is Able
Uncreated One
The Least I Can Do
You Gave Your Life Away
Christ is Risen
Up From the Grave

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Becoming the Liturgy

2011-10-22T10:54:00.001-04:00

I saw this at a conference this year. Very thought-provoking...

My Thoughts Exactly

2011-10-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

Word Wednesday .::167

2011-10-19T10:33:00.002-04:00

Sunday Setlist 10.16.11

2011-10-16T16:12:00.002-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Alleluia (Our Praise is)
All We Need
My Peace
O God Our Help (Same God)

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Word Wednesday .::166

2011-10-12T10:00:00.002-04:00

Sunday Setlist 10.09.11

2011-10-09T21:11:00.003-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Our Prayer
Radiance
Kingdom Come
May Your Kingdom Come

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

NBA 2K12....LARRY!!

2011-10-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

This is definitely on my wish list...Gotta have the Larry cover!

Word Wednesday .::165

2011-10-05T08:52:00.002-04:00

Want or Need: Smart Phone

2011-10-04T08:48:00.002-04:00

In an ever-growing materialistic society, it's becoming more difficult to distinguish the difference between what we really want and what we really need. It's time for you to weigh in on this discussion. It's real simple...is it a want or a need?

SMART PHONE

WANT or NEED?

Sunday Setlist 10.02.11

2011-10-02T20:50:00.002-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Like a Lion
Cannons
Your Name
Blessed Be Your Name

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Word Wednesday .::164

2011-09-28T09:51:00.002-04:00

Our Prayer

2011-09-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a new song I wrote based on the Lord's prayer. Let me know what you think. Critiques are very, very welcome. Don't be shy.

Great Benefit of Social Media Era

2011-09-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

I'm not a Google Chrome fan, but this captures the "why" of social media.

Sunday Setlist 09.25.11

2011-09-25T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
All Creatures of our God and King
Our God
How Great is our God
Our Prayer (not yet recorded)

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Word Wednesday .::163

2011-09-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

Album Review - The Playlist

2011-09-20T11:00:00.000-04:00

The Playlist by Rita Springer

Integrity Music Description:
Integrity Music announces the September 20 release of The Playlist, the first studio-recorded album from renowned worship leader/songwriter Rita Springer.
Springer, who is known for penning worship songs such as “Make Us a Prayer,” “Worth It All,” “I Have To Believe” and “Oh How You Love Me,” previously released six independent CDs. Her most recent, In This Forever, was recorded live at Gateway Church near Dallas, and is now available through Integrity to all major digital service providers including iTunes and Amazon.

Almost 10 years ago, I was introduced to the music of Rita Springer when I bought her album "Effortless". When I put it in, I could instantly hear and feel the heart and intensity of this artist.

Now, with her new album, The Playlist, I can still hear and feel that heart and intensity. When I think of Rita Springer, I think of Spirit-filled, Spirit-led and gifted. What you'll get with this release is the sounds of a seasoned musician, singer, song writer, and worship leader.

The stand-out tracks for me were "In This Forever", "Made for This" and the haunting "This Blood".

This is a great, solid album for corporate worship or personal worship and meditation.

Great job Integrity and Rita!

Click here for Itunes to purchase "The Playlist" today.

Nicholas Cage is a Vampire?

2011-09-19T22:41:00.003-04:00

Apparently a photo has surfaced recently, supposedly from the 1870's, and was pretty popular on Ebay. The seller "believes" it is actually actor Nicholas Cage and that he is a vampire, which would explain how he has lived all these years. This is my wife's favorite actor, so she'll be excited to know that he won't be dying any time soon. Maybe he'll have a shot at a role in a Twilight flick. It's not like he hasn't been in any bad movies lately. Click here to read the article.

Gungor...More Gungor

2011-09-19T11:07:00.001-04:00

No production needed with these amazing artists. Incredible.

Sunday Setlist 09.18.11

2011-09-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Today is the Day
Like a Lion
O God our Help (Same God)
You Never Let Go

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

"For the Glory of the Father" on CCLITV

2011-09-16T09:00:00.001-04:00

One of my new songs, "For the Glory of the Father" is on CCLITV. You can click here and go check it out. It's a video from one of our worship services at Bethany. Let me know what you think of the new tune. It will actually be on my new EP, due out this Spring.

3:16 THURSDAY::::week twenty-four

2011-09-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

Revelation 3:16(niv)

"So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth."

Life is too short to not live on purpose. Let's not mess around with the time we have. Live with passion and faith for our Lord Jesus Christ.

Word Wednesday .::162

2011-09-14T08:42:00.001-04:00

Keep the Faith - Tim Hughes

2011-09-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

This song is rocking my church right now. Soooo good. This is footage of us singing it in a recent worship service. Thank you, Tim Hughes, for writing it.

Click here to get it on Itunes.

So, what song is rocking your church right now?

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-04:00

Today is my Mom's birthday. She rocks! Here's some good times from the 80's...

Sunday Setlist 09.11.11

2011-09-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
O Praise Him
Keep the Faith
Mighty to Save
Merciful God (not yet recorded

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Helloooo....McFly!

2011-09-09T20:01:00.002-04:00

If they had power laces, I might consider it.

3:16 THURSDAY::::week twenty-three

2011-09-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

I John 3:16(niv)

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for  us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters."

Jesus is love...Christ in us makes us love.

Word Wednesday .::161

2011-09-07T14:55:00.002-04:00

Album Review/Q&A - The Sounds of Daniel Bashta

2011-09-06T09:00:00.003-04:00

The Sounds of Daniel Bashta by Daniel Bashta

Have you heard of Daniel Bashta? If not, you’ve probably heard one of his songs. If you have heard of him, then you know what that song is…”Like a Lion”. What you’re getting ready to find out is that this is not another one hit wonder. Today marks the release of his debut album with Integrity Music called, The Sounds of Daniel Bashta.
When you have a moment, go to http://danielbashta.com and read his compelling story. I’m sure you’ll find depth there in this artist.
You’ll also want to go get his album as well.

The Sounds of Daniel Bashta isn’t your average worship album, and that statement is exactly what Daniel wants to hear about his album. He is setting out to bring a fresh, prophetic voice to the Church, and he makes no apologies.

The opening track, “Dreamers”, is an appropriate call to worship challenging God’s people to awake and dream big. The other song that I just can’t seem to shake is “Freedom Calling”, which has a raw, gritty drive that doesn’t waste a moment beginning with the line, “It’s time to let my faith arise”, and then continues with lines like, “miracles are coming…"
Like John Mark McMillan’s version of “How He Loves”, Daniel’s version of “Like a Lion” far surpasses any other versions out there. It truly is a message for the church to sing and proclaim. Another immediate song for the church that I’ve used in corporate worship is “Heaven”. It’s a simple, yet powerful ballad for any corporate worship setting.

The other standouts for me were “With Everything”, “It’s Happening”, and “Awakening”.

Daniel was also gracious enough to do a Q&A with me…

Q&A

Gary: I believe the greatest songs grow on you. “Like a Lion” has definitely grown on me. What’s the story behind that song?

Daniel: Beautiful, I’m really glad you phrased it like that. I think the best stories are those that grow on you, because it means there are new conversations taking place after the first time you have heard it. If a story gave away the plot on the first page it would not be much of a journey. When I write, my mission is to take people on a journey. I’ve been on a personal journey the last few years, challenging my belief in who my God is and in my love/hate relationship with the church as a whole. A few years ago I had a pastor tell me he felt that I was not called to be a worship leader. I think when God has birthed in you a dreamer, pioneer spirit, there will always be dream killers that will try to curse the dream. Around the same time I had a friend tell me that he didn’t know what I was going through, but all he could see was this lion spirit that was caged up. I needed some supernatural healing. I started writing Like a Lion, “My God’s not dead He’s surely alive, He’s living on the inside roaring Like a Lion”. It was a breakthrough anthem for me. The healing process had begun. I started working on the verses and the phrase, “my faith is dead I need a resurrection somehow.” There’s a reason that Jesus said in Matthew 17:20-“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” This was a very honest line for me. There could never be a resurrection unless there was a death and I really felt that that this line would resonate with this generation. I’ve heard so many stories of broken dreams and bitterness coming out of the church. We need the God of restoration to awaken our lifeless steeples. This line was not a statement saying my faith in God is dead, but my faith to believe for the impossible had become desolate. In the bridge it says “come shake the ground with the sounds of revival”. I used plural sounds for a reason. I truly believe with all my heart that this next great awakening will not just be one sound, but it will be the eclectic explosion of the sounds of this generation. I really felt compelled to use the word revival too. Unfortunately that word has become more of a cliché word in our churches. We throw it out there like it’s a normal occurrence and I think that word sums up an image of the old charismatic tent revival where churches would advertise on their billboards revival meetings on this date and time.

The heart of this phrase is that God, in all His power, would roar and revive every dead heart and dead things would begin to dance again. It’s an anthem of hope, the roar is alive, and I can see it spreading!

Gary: You’ve been involved in church and worship your whole life. What kind of vision has God given you as a church leader?

Daniel: Wow, I have a buffet of answers for this question.

I would say we have become spoiled as a whole.I think you can look back at history and see how every generation has evolved from the last and how every new generation will always push to see how close we can get to the edge. It’s just who we are. The same thing has happened in our worship. 10 years ago to become a wealthy person from writing a worship song for the church was not an easy thing to do. Today it’s not that uncommon. We are all such technological junkies. We love the bright lights, the big screens, the sexy Vegas shows. Somehow, our churches now represent all of these things. It also seems like it’s a popular demand to always be upgrading. Nothing is ever good enough, spoiled. How many intelligent lights must we have, how many HD projectors and LED walls must we have. How many holograms of preachers can we have? Now don’t get me wrong, I am the worst because I really do love all of these things, but my belief is that we love to rely on the glitz and glamour instead of the power and presence of God. We substitute our programs and agendas instead of really allowing the Holy Spirit to be uncontrollable and mess up all of our plans. There are so many incredible gatherings and churches that are learning that this is the key and the truth in seeing a generation unleashed. God is not coming back for a sexy Vegas church, He is returning for a warrior bride, a bride that has been rejected and stained, a bride that is full of broken misfits and dreamers, a bride that was once dead but is now beautiful.My vision for the global church is that we become epicenters of restoration to our communities and see wild, raw transformation spread to every family.I think one of the biggest epidemics right now in the church is lack of true pastors or fathers. There is a dying world searching for their real Jesus in some way. The church needs to wake up and father a generation and launch a movement of sons and daughters that are so creative and full of dreams. I don’t think we need to just be trying to change culture but that we should actually be the leading voice of our culture.

Gary: You’ve got a distinct voice. Who were your musical and vocal influences?

Daniel: My belief is that no artist should just blend in. If you look back at history there has never been a revolution that has happened with a group of people that have adapted to culture. God has put in each of us a unique piece of the puzzle of His heart. We were created to stand out. Having a unique voice or distinct voice is not always the easiest thing to accept because it produces a huge spotlight over you. But for me, anytime I hear or see some form of art that stands out, it captures my attention.

If I look back at some of the artists that have shaped me and continue to shape me each of them have such a commanding sound. Keith Green, Kevin Prosch, David Ruis, Martin Smith, Bono. I think the most impacting thing about each of these artists is that their sound continues to spread from one generation to the next. They were/are visionary artists writing songs of Hope that can’t be contained. You can hear the emotion and conviction in each of their voices. Conviction for me is the one thing that will set you apart.

Gary: You’ve recently signed with Integrity. Congratulations! How has the transition been from independent artist to major record label?

Daniel: It’s been quite the transition indeed. Honestly the music industry as a whole is in such chaos. When it comes to record labels, I had a lot of different voices telling me to run as fast as I could away from the sinking Titanic. When we started the process of talking to a few different labels, it was as if they already had the formula developed and they were just try to fit some new ingredient into their old manufactured stencil. The relationship between an artist and label should be like a marriage. For me, an artist should accomplish what God has called them to do regardless of circumstances. Label or not, it should not stop you from pioneering the unknown. I’m really excited and humbled to be a part of the Integrity family. They get the meaning of this. It’s not a dictatorship, it’s a partnership. I believe in their mission and they believe in mine. Together we are charging hell, and seeing heaven invade earth.

Gary: I’ve really enjoyed listening to your new album, “The Sounds of Daniel Bashta”. What kind of effect on the Church do you hope to see from this album?

Daniel: I believe God has given us a very prophetic sound. This is another word that the evangelical world has done such a poor job in displaying the true essence of this word.

For me being prophetic means we are speaking undeniable life into dark hopeless places. I love how the Bible talks about when Jesus showed up in a city, he disrupted all forms of normality. My prayer is that when people listen to this project they are taken on a journey and that we stir up a commotion with the spirit behind the songs. My prayer is that when people listen to these songs that something happens suddenly in their lives that dreams come alive again, and that miracles will take place. I believe that dreams were never birthed to just survive; I believe dreams were made to conquer all. During the process of making this record my wife and I were on the most radical adventure of adopting. In the middle of recording the project our son was born and became a Bashta forever. I can still listen back to different tracks and remember where we were on the journey. I pray that this spirit of adoption is translated through different songs and that the story of hope echoes with such fierce passion! I want this record to catapult us as the church to put our worship into motion and see nations shake!

Gary: What are some words of wisdom for those who are writing songs for the local church?

Daniel: Art was never meant to be flawless. For me the most beautiful art is dirty and full of guts. Otherwise I would say it is less art and more of a reusable concoction.

I believe that as songwriters we should be prophesying over the church and a generation. I think each songwriter has a specific anointing that they should tap into. For me personally, I don’t think God needs me to write a song saying How Great He is, because one is already being sung around the world. As the ultimate Creator I think He loves when He hears poetry that sounds so different and unique describing Him in ways that only we can do. I think this pure, raw worship attracts Him to show up in unlikely places. Stay true to who God has called you to be. Write songs for your gatherings that will impact your community. Write songs that are the heartbeat for what God wants to do and not what he has already done. Don’t be typical; do not settle for something average. Write art that is full of conviction and not production. Tell the story of redemption with a fresh perspective of the cross. Be a megaphone to shout anthems of hope to the broken world.

Click here to purchase The Sounds of Daniel Bashta today!

Person of Interest

2011-09-05T09:00:00.001-04:00

I will be checking this show out. Hopefully its great & it won't get cancelled.

Sunday Setlist 09.04.11

2011-09-04T19:41:00.002-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Not to Us
Glory to God Forever
Cannons
I Am Free

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Weatherman Arachnophobia

2011-09-02T21:26:00.000-04:00

3:16 THURSDAY::::week twenty-two

2011-09-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

I Peter 3:16(niv)

"keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against  your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander."

It's ok if people shoot at you, as long as they're shooting blanks.

Word Wednesday .::160

2011-08-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

⁶ He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.

This scripture grabbed me this week like it never has before. I think I finally get what Jesus is saying here. Its real simple. The disciples think they need more faith, but Jesus tells them they just need faith. A small amount of true faith in God will open our eyes to the miracles of our Lord.

What's your Word?

Sunday Setlist 08.28.11

2011-08-28T12:00:00.001-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Beautiful Savior
The Earth is Yours
Amazed
How He Loves

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Manifesto

2011-08-27T21:07:00.002-04:00

Probably my favorite song right now.

Ghosts Upon the Earth

2011-08-26T21:08:00.002-04:00

If you haven't heard the epicness (new word) of Gungor's last album, Beautiful Things, click here, download it, soak it in, come back and thank me in the comments. (It's actually on sale right now).
On September 20th, I'll be enjoying their next album, "Ghosts Upon the Earth", with an Itunes gift card I've been saving. Click here to pre-order it on Itunes. Can't wait!

3:16 THURSDAY::::week twenty-one

2011-08-25T09:00:00.001-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

James 3:16(niv)

"For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."

We sin because of selfishness. When we do what we want to do, instead of what God wants to do, we lose sight of our purpose of giving God the glory, and therefore evil surfaces.

Word Wednesday .::159

2011-08-24T10:51:00.003-04:00

²⁸ He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

One thing that God has been showing me is that we greatly misuse the word "blessed." We ascribe blessed to things that are not blessed, mostly for justification purposes. Jesus gives this woman a dose of reality. It probably busted her bubble. May Jesus continue to bust our bubble and give us true perspective on life. May we treasure His Word more and more and obey, which leads to true worship.

What's your Word?

Pre--Blessed Food

2011-08-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

They forgot to include Chick-fil-A. I'm pretty sure that's pre-blessed.

Want or Need: Gym Membership

2011-08-22T09:00:00.000-04:00

GYM MEMBERSHIP

WANT or NEED?

Sunday Setlist 08.21.11

2011-08-21T12:00:00.001-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
All Because of Jesus
Everything
Beautiful Scene
Today is the Day

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

3:16 THURSDAY::::week twenty

2011-08-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

II Timothy 3:16(niv)

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,"

God's breath and Word is such a gift to us.

Word Wednesday .::158

2011-08-17T09:00:00.002-04:00

Album Review - To the Travelers

2011-08-16T17:00:00.001-04:00

T o the Travelers by Hadriel

Hadriel is an independent Florida-based band comprised of Nate Young, Drew Eales, Rob Polischuck, Nathan Beam, Patrick Chin & Josh McDonald.
Their album, To the Travelers, is an obvious picture of their hearts for Christ. From the first track on, you hear lyrics that are honoring to God and scripture.

The opening track, "Savior I Call", gives you an instant taste of who they are, musically and lyrically, which is total quality. My favorite song on the album is "We Will Stand". I look forward to experiencing this one live in corporate worship. Musically, it's got a great emotional drive to it, and it's got fresh lyrics like, " ...we'll stand, because the blood of the Lamb has set us free."

The other stand-outs for me were "So in Love", which had me singing the hook for a couple days, and "Tonight", which was obviously written in a very real and vulnerable time.

I love this album and this band. They definitely have their own feel and style with a little Hillsong United and Elevation Worship mixed in. I'm excited to see how God uses their music.

Click here to check them out on Facebook.

Realignment Bumper Video

2011-08-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a bumper I made for our new sermon series that started yesterday at Bethany.

Sunday Setlist 08.14.11

2011-08-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Unchanging
Cannons
Hosanna
Kingdom Come

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Hurt

2011-08-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

It was destiny that Johnny covered this song. Challenging and haunting.

Happy Birthday to My Wife

2011-08-12T09:37:00.004-04:00

So, it's my wife's birthday today. She is amazing, incredible, awesome, etc.

If you don't like her, it's simple.............you're a weirdo.

In honor of her birthday, I'm asking all you who know her to comment on this blog and say why you think she's great. So, help me out and load up the comments here on the blog, even if you've already said happy birthday to her on facebook.

Leave a Comment and tell Jennifer why she's great!

3:16 THURSDAY::::week nineteen

2011-08-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

I Timothy 3:16(niv)

"Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great:

He appeared in the flesh,
was vindicated by the Spirit,
was seen by angels,
was preached among the nations,
was believed on in the world,
was taken up in glory."

This mystery brings clarity and purpose to our lives....and true godliness.

Word Wednesday .::157

2011-08-10T11:30:00.002-04:00

Want or Need: IPad, Kindle, Nook, etc.

2011-08-09T09:00:00.000-04:00

IPad, Kindle, Nook, etc.

WANT or NEED?

Merge Game Night

2011-08-08T09:00:00.001-04:00

Here's a promo video I made for our church's upcoming Game Night. I very much enjoyed this one.

Sunday Setlist 08.07.11

2011-08-07T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Alleluia (Our Praise is)
All Creatures of our God and King
Keep the Faith
Forever

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Denim...

2011-08-05T09:00:00.001-04:00

3:16 THURSDAY::::week eighteen

2011-08-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

II Thessalonians 3:16(niv)

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. "

True peace comes from God.

Word Wednesday .::156

2011-08-03T10:45:00.002-04:00

Album Review - Alive

2011-08-02T09:00:00.001-04:00

A live by Brothers McClurg

The newest release from Integrity Music is "Alive" by Brothers McClurg, formerly known as Relevant Worship.
This is a solid EP with some great songs for the church. The title track is probably the strongest which was previously released by Integrity's All Sons and Daughters. The other stand outs were "Living Water" and "Beautiful Grace".

I think this will speak to the Casting Crowns fans out there more than anybody.

Click here for Itunes to purchase "Alive" today.

Sunday Setlist 07.31.11

2011-07-31T12:00:00.000-04:00

Setlist with itunes links:
Hosanna (Praise is Rising)
Our God
Everlasting God
Kingdom Come

Flow Sheet from Planning Center

Also part of Sunday Setlist.

Book Review - The Millennials

2011-07-30T00:00:00.001-04:00

The Millennials by Thom and Jess Rainer

Watch out world...here comes the Millennials. The Millenial generation spans from those born from 1980-2000. This book is a study of around 1,500 Millennials born from 1980-1990. These are the current 20-30 year olds in our society. As a church leader, I've been looking forward to reading this book.
I have a huge heart and burden for the unchurched of our culture and the Millennials are easily the most unchurched generation in history.
I think Thom and Jess did a great job in taking a pretty unbiased survey of this generation. It definitely had a Christian slant, naturally, but it felt real. I appreciated the hope that it revealed and, more importantly, the challenge at the end of the book to the Church.

The Millennials are coming! Are we ready for them?

Great job, Thom and Jess Rainer! This was a very challenging book that church leaders need to read.

Follow @TheMillennials on Twitter to see some quotes from the book.

3:16 THURSDAY::::week seventeen

2011-07-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

3:16 Thursdays is a series of blog posts focusing on the 3:16 passages throughout the Bible that have really stuck out to me in my studies from Genesis to Revelation.

Colossians 3:16(niv)

"Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and  admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs  from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts."

Pure instruction for the Church.