50 Songs
Through the decades music has been an important part of my life. When I was three years old, I sang my first solo on the stage of the New Gallery Center in London. (No, I’m not a soloist.) I’ve sung in choirs since grade four, and have been a worship music leader. I’ve often said that if we keep singing the songs of our faith, it would be hard to give up on Jesus. We may shed tears as we sing or listen to the words, but they can keep us grounded because in them we find comfort, inspiration, hope and purpose. Fifty years ago, I decided to follow Jesus. No turning back.
These songs take us back to children’s Sabbath School, Happy Songs for Boys and Girls, and The Singing Youth. Perhaps like me, when you were a young child you sang these songs. We tend to classify then as children’s songs, but these are not trivial little ditties. They contain depth, wisdom, and profound truth. They taught me of God’s love and gave me a purpose for my life. We would do well to sing them today as adults.
I Have Decided to Follow Jesus
The B-I-B-L-E
Wide, Wide as the Ocean
This Little Light of Mine
Brighten the Corner
Dare to Be a Daniel
Yield Not to Temptation
True Temperance Boys and Girls
Tell It Again
I’ll Share My Faith
I Would Be Like Jesus
Can the World See Jesus in You?
He Keeps Me Singing
I Have a Song that Jesus Gave Me
Make Me a Blessing
The Captain Calls for You
These simple choruses express our personal commitment to and a longing for a relationship with Jesus in the here of now. Some of the gospel songs and hymns express the essence of our Advent hope to see Jesus soon. I am Bound for the Promised Land was the theme of our wedding and has become the mission statement of my life. The songs of the Second Coming reflect my longing to be with Jesus, my parents, and others who are sleeping until Jesus comes.
God Is So Good
Whisper a Prayer
Jesus Is the Sweetest Name I Know
What the World Needs is Jesus
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
If You Want Joy
Into My Heart
I Want to Be Ready
My Home’s in Heaven
I am Bound for the Promised Land
When All My Labors and Trials
Somewhere Beyond the Blue
Beyond the Sunset
Come Thou Fount
We Are Nearing Home
It Is Well with My Soul
Lift Up the Trumpet
These worship songs express different aspects of the life of a disciple of Jesus. I’m very grateful that the program included I Have Come to You performed by Charles and Julie Reid. When at the age of eight, Chuck made the decision to be baptized, his father—Robert, was inspired to write the words and music of this song for Chuck’s baptism. Also, thank you to Chuck for performing for the first time , “May all who come behind us find us faithful.” No turning back.