August 6, 2014 (Wednesday)
Bill and Gloria Gaither have had a tremendous impact upon Christian music. Together, they have written more than 700 gospel songs. They have won many impressive awards and have influenced many famous gospel artists who have followed in their footsteps to become ardent missionaries in music.
Some of their hymns have been incorporated into standard hymnals published by the great gospel publishing houses.
Who among us has not been blessed by their songs? Their lyrics as well as music touch our hearts. For instance, haven’t you been thrilled to the core as you sang with others, “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow?” Or, how about, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus–there’s something about that name?” Have you ever heard the Gaither Vocal Band sing, “There is a River?” I tell you, a heart that can resist the call of that song must be made of stone.
And the Gaithers are not the only musicians who have influenced us in our Sunday worship. There are many others. Our choir brings special musicals at Easter and Christmas, written by people alive today. Sometimes they present other special programs of music written by contemporary Christians alive in the Spirit.
Do we love the old hymns? Oh, yes, yes, yes! Is there room in our hearts for additional songs? By all means.
I have loved preaching. It’s vital. But it goes hand in hand with music in worship. All of it–words or music–is used by the Lord to reach the Lost and encourage the Saved.
You can sample some of these songs by visiting YouTube.