Jason Whitehorn: Rants and Praises

Exciting, Exciting, Exciting

2009-02-20T12:33:00.002-06:00

There are a lot of cool things happening today - stuff to be praying about and praising about. Figured I'd highlight a few.

As we speak, Eddie Mosley, Pastor of GroupLife at LifePoint Church is speaking at a huge SmallGroup conference at Saddleback Church (a MEGA church that started as a SmallGroup itself in the home Mr. and Mrs. Rick Warren.) Eddie has the opportunity to encourage and empower TONS of people to make closer connections with each other and with God via this venue. Pray for him as he speaks.

At this very moment, four members of our church are heading to Africa to reach some people who have NEVER heard a word about God before. It is an AWESOME opportunity. As their flight is preparing to leave...please pray that lives for generations will be touched because of the messsage they carry.

And a HUGE praise for Steven Curtis Chapman. I just got word that he has four nods for Dove Awards this year...including Artist of The Year. On a side note, this is also the one-year anniversary of the day that Steven and Mary Beth's daughters Mari and Stevey Joy asked Jesus into their lives. They wanted to go "to God's Big House"! We can rejoice even today that Maria is playing in "God's Big House" today.

Hope YOU are having a blessed day, friends!

What I Love About My Wife

2009-02-14T10:17:00.004-06:00

All across the country today, men are paying attention to their wives. For some, it may be the first time this year that they have devoted time to their spouse. Keeping with the spirit that Valentine is more than just a card - I wanted to take a few moments to honestly and sincerely tell me wife why she rocks my world!

5. Her smile. The world can be upside down, in a rut, twisted and mangled from anything and everything horrid and my wife can give a genuine smile and the world goes away.

4. She truly is my "other half" - Where I fail...she is the victor. She knows my weaknesses...and she either becomes strong in that area - or pushes me to become strong myself. We can complete each other's sentences and, often, know exactly what each other is thinking. Take away my other half...and I am half of a man.

3. She likes to dance...and I hate dancing! So why is this a good thing? Her love for dancing and my fear of dancing allows me to share something with her that is genuinely true and romantic. When we dance, it isn't about a song. She gets this "special" look on her face that I cannot explain. It is a look of love. I rarely see that deep of a look any time other than when we dance. It is real. When we renewed our vows last year, I made a point as a surprise to her to dance with her on the dance floor. That was huge to me. I can perform before thousands with no issue...but I cant dance in front of family and friends without feeling veery strange. Guess I'll never be a candidate for Dancing With The Stars!)( I had the privilege and honor to sing Steven Curtis Chapman's "We Will Dance" to her at our reception...and then follow it up with a dance on the dance floor. I loved the way she looked at me. Guys...dance with your wives. Let her know that she is THAT special!

2. She is my biggest fan. I could care less if a million people like a song I wrote or performed. I care, however, if she does. She will, from time to time, sleep in old promotional shirts with my face on it "because they are comfortable"...but I know its because she loves me. I run any song I write now by her to see how it grabs her. I need that from her. I love randomly picking up the guitar just to play her a song or two. It makes her smile. See # 5.

1. She loves God - She loves God, earnestly seeks Him and wants to learn more about Him. You cant ask for more from a wife.

BONUS: She knows how to turn off the ceiling fan. That one...well...we will just err on the side of "she likes to save electricity." Don't understand it? Good...it probably wasn't listed for your personal understanding - but we know exactly what I am talking about.

No Words Can Describe...

2009-01-30T17:02:00.001-06:00

I have absolutely no words. No words. How? Why?

My Daughter's "Dream"

2009-01-18T19:21:00.001-06:00

My daughter has recently turned seven and is learning about Martin Luther King this past week in school. Her teacher gave her a project at school - to write down what she dreams about. Now, we are used to the normal with her :

"I dream I'll be a princess one day..."

"I dream that I'll be a cook..."

"I dream that I'll be like Cinderella..."

...but it was what she wrote that touched me and her mother - so after almost being to the point of tears...I sat her down in front of a mic and had her read her "I Have A Dream" project from school.

Feel free to click on the link to hear her read it. I've also included the text below (in her cute mis-spellings) so that you can follow along.

Click here to hear her read her "dream".

I Have A Dream

by Amber Whitehorn

I want all people to not have to pay alot. because they mite use up all of their money and will be poor. so please don't use so much money.

I want all snakes to not have pooysen. because if they do the mite bite somewon and and that porson will be hurt. so work hard to not git close to a snake. I want all test to not be hard. because if it is you will git itleste something wrong.

I want every body to Love God and Jesus and beleave in God and Jesus. I want everybody to go to church. And when people go to church don't be mean cause God and Jesus don't respect that because that is a sin.

Book Review: The Word of Promise - The Gift of Psalms

2009-01-17T17:18:00.002-06:00

Over the past few days, I've had the opportunity to read and listen to The Word of Promise - The Gift of Psalms from Thomas Nelson Publishers. This is, in my opinion, a must for worship leaders and worshipers everywhere. The books take a selection of some of the greatest and most impactful psalms as written in the book of Psalms. The Psalms are eloquently recited by various members of the entertainment community.

Have a hard time reading? No problem. This book comes with an audio version (included) on compact disk which makes it m ore convenient to "read". I was able to complete the book in my quiet time and while commuting back and forth each day.

Each Pslam selected has the Psalm set to music and is followed by a short devotional pertaining to the Psalm. Whether you are looking for your next favorite devotional book...or to learn more about the Psalms...this book/audio compilation is perfect!

Wanna learn more or purchase? Click here.

What an AMAZING DAY!

2009-01-12T00:11:00.002-06:00

It was a truly amazing day today as we unveiled our new glocal identity for our church. In a church with a century of history...we are pressing forward and under the identity of:

Click "play" below to see a short video that sums up what our church is all about.

LifePoint Church from LifePoint Church on Vimeo.

BOOK REVIEW: For The Tough Times

2009-01-10T00:36:00.002-06:00

For The Tough Times by: Max Lucado

Today, in my quiet time, I got a chance to read Max Lucado's For The Tough Times. At well less than 100 pages, this book is a small read - but speaks volumes of truth of how God always has, always is, and always will be in control.

Placed in the down-to-earth modern language of today that Lucado is known for, this book will inspire you to remember to let go...and let God. You'll look at familiar stories from the Bible in a new way while reading this book. I particularly liked Lucado's take on the story of Job.

All in all, the book is perfect for anyone going through any type of struggle or dark day in life. You'll find scripture-based inspiration to let you know that everything is in God's tender hands...even "for the tough times."

Click here to visit the Thomas Nelson website to purchase this book today!

2009-01-09T18:30:00.002-06:00

I received a copy of the book For The Tough Times by Max Lucado today. I'm looking forward to reviewing it here on the blog.

What have you been reading lately? Got a recommendation? Shoot it my way!

You can click here for a link to purchase the book.

SONG SEARCH: "Lead Me To The Cross"

2009-01-07T09:47:00.003-06:00

From Hillsong United comes a simple yet beautiful melody that is perfect for personal reflection or as a focus in worship. "Lead Me To The Cross" continues to prove that the latest Hillsong album is the best ever. I hope you enjoy.

Lead Me To The Cross

Savior I come
Quiet my soul remember
Redemptions hill
Where Your blood was spilled
For my ransom
Everything I once held dear
I count it all as lost

Chorus:
Lead me to the cross
Where Your love poured out
Bring me to my knees
Lord I lay me down
Rid me of myself
I belong to You
Oh Lead me,
lead me to the cross

You were as I
Tempted and trialed
Human
The word became flesh
Bore my sin and death
Now you're risen
Everything I once held dear
I count it all as lost

Chorus

Bridge:
To your heart
To your heart
Lead me to your heart
Lead me to your heart

Social Networking

2008-12-31T12:11:00.003-06:00

How interesting this past year has been! During the past year I was introduced to two rather interesting forms of "networking" - Facebook and Twitter. At first, these two mediums (especially Twitter) seems a little strange. "Why would anyone in their right minds just openly share what is going on in their life with the world?" Believe me...I asked the question at first and have since been asked the question repeatedly. I have to laugh when someone (one of our awesome lead guitarists...not to be specific, oh Goateed one!) actually Twitters "I just stepped in gum!" Sometimes the "tweets" are completely random...but sometimes they give me insight that, as a brother in Christ, I may want to know.

For example, it is sad to hear news from another Worship Leader in another state how lost his secular job and is at risk of loosing his house. He is a great man who I first met because he started "following" me on Twitter - and I, in return, have "followed" him. Since then, we have shared numoerous experiences and have even written publications for each other. Despite that...this man who I have never physically met gets prayers from me daily and also gets prayers from my two children asking God to "please help Pastor __________ find a job and keep his house." How awesome is God that He can use a tool like Twitter or Facebook for that purpose.

Even well known pastors like my Facebook-friend Mark Batterson note the importance of these types of sites. Mark blogged one time of how these "tweets" give him an insight into the daily lifes of so many people - and it is true. When someone is in need - we can pray for them. When someone has a praise - we can rejoice with them.

Through things like Facebok and Twitter, I have gotten the pleasure of reuniting with old friends...finding friends that have taken on the same joy of writing, singing, worship leading, etc...and getting to feel like I'm still, in some way, connected with family and friends from all over the globe.

Thanks be to God that He is ever-so-current...and that He is far more technically savvy then we may give Him credit for....especially when we may balk at "why stepping in gum is interesting." Ah, you see...even little posts like that into the lives of our friends are important. After all, while he may not be graceful at where he places his foot on the ground - even my gum-trampling friend shows others that he is walking in the footsteps of Christ by the small little posts he leaves for all the world to see.

What are you telling the world?

The Day That "True Love" Died

2008-12-31T09:37:00.001-06:00

I posted this vid back in October, but a tweet from a friend yesterday reminded me of it again. Each time I play it...I find myself having to play it again...and again...and again. How true it is! Take a few moments and just concentrate on the lyrics - so powerful...so true...and He died for you!

True Love from Pace Hartfield on Vimeo.

2008-12-27T20:37:00.004-06:00

This is the last song that I wrote. Its a rough recording to give a scratch copy to work off of.

I'm interested in hearing your thoughts on this one. Please feel free to contact me via the website or personally at jason_whitehorn@live.com . I also welcome you to comment on the song in this blog.

Merry Christmas & Season's Greetings from the Whitehorns

2008-12-26T09:59:00.004-06:00

I know its been a while since I've posted - life has been a little hectic around the Whitehorn camp as I'm sure it has been for most. I've been working on a couple of projects and attempting to refocus some energy on writing while maintaining a healthy family balance at the same time.

We had a bit of downtime right between Thanksgiving and Christmas due to family illnesses but, thankfully, that seems to be behind us know. We got to spend the days before Christmas travelling to Mississippi to be with family, Christmas Eve with the Chapman's, and are planning to take a couple of other trips between now and the end of January.

Got to take a rant for a moment...I am still stuck with JasonWhitehorn.info as it seems our friend in Japan is still holding JasonWhitehorn.com ransom. (http://www.networksolutions.com/whois-search/jasonwhitehorn.com) After I left the music business for the first time a few years back, my site became dormant and the domain went away...some "thoughtful" person in Japan decided to scoop it up and, for whatever reason, seems to think it is prime internet real estate (at least the $10,000 plus price tag he has on my name suggests it.) Only on the internet will I ever find a place where someone will hold your name hostage and demand a ransom for it. Only on the internet will someone have the time to post a map to your home under the title "Nashville Celebrity Homes".

I'll digress on the rant....

It is my sincere wish that you have the greatest and most prosperous of years in the coming year. I've learned so much this year that true prosperity doesn't come from the amount of money in your bank account...but from the joy you have realizing all that God has done for us in this life and how blessed we trully are.

Until Every knee bows,

Jason Whitehorn

“My grandfather is dead”

2008-12-04T08:49:00.002-06:00

Who would have ever thought that the month of February in 2004 would be as cold as it was? The physical temperature was fine with highs between the 50’s and 60’s…but the chill I felt that February was numbing. I had come home from work and was doing some relaxing on the couch when my phone rang. To this day, I can’t remember if it was my mother or father who called…and I don’t remember the exact words said to me…but I remember being told a simple sentence that translated to “my grandfather is dead.” I vaguely remember not being able to speak and tossing the phone aside at the couch. My wife picked up the phone while I cried my heart into the couch cushions.

The details were chilling. My grandfather had spent the morning cleaning up after himself so my grandmother would not have to do any cleaning when she got home. She had gone to see a family member in the hospital. He changed clothes into an old t-shirt and an old pair of pants and went out into his garage. He had placed a note on the kitchen refrigerator – a note that we would later discover he had written well before the fateful day. He sat down on his favorite glider in the garage – and performed the unthinkable act.

After the initial shock wore off, my mind went where I am sure everyone’s mind goes: Why? Could I have prevented it? What happens to my grandfather now? Signs! There were no signs! How could we have missed this?!? I spent my next few months struggling with these thoughts and emotions.

Dealing with the guilt

Perhaps you have deal with or are currently dealing with the same issue. Perhaps you know someone who is dealing with the same issue. The quiet truth that I can provide to you is that God can heal your heart – and he provides us with many words in the Scriptures that answer many of our questions. It is easy to wonder “Why didn’t I see this coming?” or “could I have prevented this?” when dealing with the suicide of a loved one or friend. The truth is – it is rarely ever made known. I never knew that my grandfather was that upset with life. It turned out that he was going to have surgery on his hips and be confined to wheelchair for a short period of time. My grandfather simply did not want to subject his wife to his pain nor subject her to having to push him around and care for him. There were no signs…there was no idle talk…nor talk at all about suicide.

The Bible tells us in Proverbs that “the heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.” We hold our darkest fears inside. My grandfather’s suicide letter was written before he took his own life – but you would have never known it to talk to him. You may also wonder “Why could someone even think about suicide?” Having these thoughts is nothing new. In fact, we see references in the Bible to those who have at least thought about giving up their life for various reasons:

Job said “I’d rather choke to death than live in this body. Leave me alone and
let me die; my life has no meaning.” (Job 7: 15-16)

Jonah was so stubborn to follow God’s
word…stubborn enough that he uttered, “Lord let me die! I’d be better off dead.”
(Jonah 4:3)

Moses had the weight of his people on his
shoulders and spoke to God, “I cannot carry all these people by myself; the
burden is too heavy for me. If this is how you are going to treat me, put me to
death right now.” (Numbers 11: 14-15)

Paul even battled with life and
death saying, “If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful
labor for me. Yet what shall I chose? I do not know! I am torn between the two:
I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far.” (Philippians 1: 21-23)

You see, even the strongest of men had the thought cross their mind. We all deal with grief, sorrow, and emotion differently. Some of us – like Job, Jonah, Moses, and Paul – deal with it by voicing it…or crying out to God with it. Some people – like King Saul who was grieving over the murder of his sons – carry out their thoughts in a moment of anguish. The truth is, only God know someone’s heart. We can’t completely know what another is going through…nor does God expect us to take on the guilt of another’s decisions. Remember – it was their choice…not yours.

Suicide’s impact on salvation

Perhaps the biggest issue we deal with is that of Salvation. “What happens to my loved one now? Will they go to hell?” I do think that suicide is wrong…do not mistake that…and I do know that the Bible says “thou shalt not kill” and I do not think that God made the distinction of “thou shall not kill…unless it is yourself you kill” – but at the same time I think that the mere thought of the fact that God treats suicide as an unforgiveable sin is outside of the teachings of the Bible.
No single sin, save rejecting God completely, is documented in the Bible that would be certain to prevent entrance into Heaven. Salvation is the ticket to Heaven…Colossians 2:13-14 tells us that our sins are forgiven…all sins…past present and future. If the sins in our life after salvation prevent us from going to Heaven…then – let’s be honest with ourselves…how many of us would be going to Heaven? The truth is, we cannot put God in a box. We cannot micro-manage God. We cannot assume that God shows mercy, grace, and love only on those who perform certain sins – but not others.

To this day, I have my own troubles dealing with what happened four years ago. I put my faith, however, in the fact that God has a far better handle on the issue than I do. It is perfectly okay for us to cry out in confusion. The Bible spends so many verses talking about crying out to God. How comforting it is to know that God hears those cries! When a baby cries – his mother and father hear it. Whether it’s a cry of “I’m hungry” or “I’m hurting” or “I need a diaper change” – a good parent knows that the simple act of holding the child and reassuring “it’s okay” works. Much in the same manner, God holds us close to Him and tells us “its okay.” He did for me…and He can for you!

Being Thankful In Rocky Times

2008-11-28T08:17:00.009-06:00

Yesterday, the vast majority of us sat down to eating way more food then we had any business eating, watched a ball game on the tube, fellowshipped with family and friends, and - for the most part - pretended nothing else was going on in the world. After all, it was Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving Day - a day when we focus on what we are thankful for, realize how many things we have been blessed with, the head out at midnight or 5 AM the next morning to spend all the money you were thankful for having on "Black Friday" deals.

My question is...what are you thankful for...today? "But wait, we just did that yesterday," you say. "We even said prayers to tell God all that we are thankful for!" In today's financial woes, political "bailouts", and other rocks in our path - it is easy for us to slip away from the thankfulness we should have and, instead, focus on the problems we are facing.

Psalm 100 (Amplified Bible)

1 MAKE A joyful noise to the Lord, all you lands!

2 Serve the Lord with gladness! Come before
His presence with singing!

3 Know (perceive, recognize, and understand
with approval) that the Lord is God! It is He Who has made us, not we ourselves
[and we are His]! We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and a
thank offering and into His courts with praise! Be thankful and say so to Him,
bless and affectionately praise His name!

5 For the Lord is good; His mercy and
loving-kindness are everlasting, His faithfulness and truth endure to all
generations.

I love the way "The Message" puts verse 4:

4 Enter with the password: "Thank you!"
Make yourselves at home, talking praise.
Thank him. Worship him.

I am blessed to have a pastor who has been leading our church in a series called "Thriving In A Bear Market". Recently, my pastor shed light on just how "wealthy" we are. Wanna be leveled? If you're reading this blog...I can pretty much guarantee you that you, my friend, richer monetarily than 96% of the rest of the world.

The problem facing most folks who are now hit hard with economic crisis as individuals is that we can't seem to separate needs from wants. We "need" shelter....but we don't "need" the bonus rooms, two car garage, swimming pool, and all the extra square footage. We "need" have fellowship and communication with others...but we don't "need" a cell phone in order to do it with. The problem comes when we start viewing all the little extras in life as "needs" and when finances get to the point that we have to cut a cell phone out of a plan or make some other cut in spending - we balk and say "but I need that." As long as our perspective is geared in this direction - we may never see what we have to be thankful for.

Thank you, God that I may be struggling to make ends meet...that I am at a point in my life where I am selling stuff on eBay to bring in some much needed income...and all the while, when I strip it all away...never have you let me lay my head down to sleep without a roof being over my head...never has there been a day that I have done without food and water....and never has there been a day when you weren't watching over me.

It's the day after Thanksgiving...and we ALL have an abundance of things to be thankful for - regardless of the economic positions we are in.

Recently, I posed a question to some of my friends. The question was simple:

"If your time on earth were over today and you were standing before God, aside from thanking Him for His Son, what would be the first thing you would thank Him for and why?"

Here are a few of the responses...

Kyle Goen
Executive Pastor - FBCSmyrna : Smyrna, TN

"I would thank God for:
1. Thank Him for choosing me before the foundation of the world
2. For my wife and children
3. For placing in the home He chose me to grow up in
4. For giving me His Word so I could know Him and His ways more clearly."

Kyle Campos
Worship Pastor - Life Connection Church : Pheonix, AZ

"Grace. In all it's forms, grace has given me everything, my family, my breath, my salvation. All that is good in my life is a product of God's grace."

Micah Huebner
Worship Leader - FBCSmyrna : Smyrna, TN

"Well after my wife of course, it would have to be that we actually get to be a part of His plan on earth. He doesn't just save us and leave us alone. He saves us and allows us to actually have the privilege of serving Him while we are still here. I love that."

So what do YOU have to be thankful for? Make each and everyday "thanksgiving" ... and enter his courts with praise!

SONG SEARCH: Hiding Place

2008-11-11T16:39:00.005-06:00

Though the song is not new, it may be new for you : "Hiding Place" is a song from the awesome talent pool at New Life Church in Colorado. This song is one that can close your eyes to, earnestly open your heart, throw all your cares upon God, and feel His presense softly saying "I'm here...I am your hiding place"

The song takes on a whole new meaning for the folks at New Life. The church endured the resignation of it's originating pastor in November of 2006 after improper actions were discovered. It was, imagineably, a huge blow to the church...but one that would not be its greatest.

A little more than a year later, a young man walked into the church and openned fire. His bullets reached four people - and left two dead before the church's security guard wounded him. The gunman then took his own life.

Today...the church is still absolutely thriving and filled with God's love. Why? When confusion existed after their pastor's resignation...they sough solice in God. When they experienced an event later that is more horrific that any of us will ever endure (we would hope) ...they sought after God to heal the emotional wounds.

Can you imagine how much the words of this song now mean to that church? What about you? What wounds do you have? What fears do you have to lay on the Lord? I know my wife and I are uncertain about economic issues like many of you are...but isn't it nice to know that God is still in control? Many are concerned about the leadership of our country. Rather than open a can of worms of political discussion (read Romans 13...and, regardless of where your vote was cast, you will find the Spiritual End of Discussion), I will quote a young gal who is wise beyond her years. My niece - not even old enough to vote - posted a comment on her Facebook that simply said "Relax, we didnt't elect a new God...just a new president." Isn't it satisfying to realize...God still reigns!

Psalms 55:22 assures us that God will take our fears, our burdens, our darkest thoughts...and shoulder them...if we just let Him.

22-23 Pile your troubles on God's shoulders—
he'll carry your load, he'll help you out.
He'll never let good people
topple into ruin.
But you, God, will throw the others
into a muddy bog,
Cut the lifespan of assassins
and traitors in half.

And I trust in you.

Let God be your hiding place...and have peace. Take heart in the words of this New Life Church song...just as they took refuge in God in the midst of their shadows.

Veteran's Day Reflections : "Freedom"

2008-11-11T08:25:00.002-06:00

If you haven't already today...thank a Veteran! Veterans past, present, and departed have paved the way for and protected the freedoms we have today. Many of us, regretably, take our own freedoms for granted. Last night, I was reminded from the scriptures how God says we should use our freedom:

Galatians 5:13-26 (Contemporary English Version)

13My friends, you were chosen to be free. So don't use your freedom as an excuse to do anything you want. Use it as an opportunity to serve each other with love. 14All that the Law says can be summed up in the command to love others as much as you love yourself. 15But if you keep attacking each other like wild animals, you had better watch out or you will destroy yourselves.

16If you are guided by the Spirit, you won't obey your selfish desires. 17The Spirit and your desires are enemies of each other. They are always fighting each other and keeping you from doing what you feel you should. 18But if you obey the Spirit, the Law of Moses has no control over you.

19People's desires make them give in to immoral ways, filthy thoughts, and shameful deeds. 20They worship idols, practice witchcraft, hate others, and are hard to get along with. People become jealous, angry, and selfish. They not only argue and cause trouble, but they are 21envious. They get drunk, carry on at wild parties, and do other evil things as well. I told you before, and I am telling you again: No one who does these things will share in the blessings of God's kingdom.

22God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, 23gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways. 24And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. 25God's Spirit has given us life, and so we should follow the Spirit. 26But don't be conceited or make others jealous by claiming to be better than they are.

And finally, remember one very important veteran today...Jesus - who gave His life so that we could have the ultimate freedom:

John 8:31-36 (Contemporary English Version)

31Jesus told the people who had faith in him, "If you keep on obeying what I have said, you truly are my disciples. 32You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

33They answered, "We are Abraham's children! We have never been anyone's slaves. How can you say we will be set free?"

34Jesus replied:

I tell you for certain that anyone who sins is a slave of sin! 35And slaves don't stay in the family forever, though the Son will always remain in the family. 36If the Son gives you freedom, you are free!

Happy Veterans Day!

Song Search

2008-11-07T17:07:00.002-06:00

Thanks to our friends at OurRisingSound.com for pointing this great song out! Chris Lizotte has found a new rocking way to say "Thank You" to our Lord and Saviour with this sneak peak from Chris's “Signal Hill Revival” release.

The Internet Age

2008-11-06T14:33:00.003-06:00

According to GigaTweet, we are about 2 days until Twitter reaches one billion. Twitter has become wildely popular these days. I know I use it to "chat" with my friends, update my Facebook...and even send status alerts to show you when this blog is updated. As cool as it is, there are even churches using Twitter during services to post questions, praises, ect.

What is amazing is how were are able to use technology to spread God's Word. I have been a member for years of MostImportantThing.org which can be used seemlessly in a witness conversation. I used to carry cards that asked "Whats The Most Important Thing to you?" and simply gave the website for readers to go to if the simple question sparked their curiosity.

Today, we see more an more technology used ... Twitter in worship, using holograms in worship...the list goes on and on.

As of today, I have two "Projects" going on on Facebook. One is a group called "Saved!" which hass no other purpose other than to let people in Facebook proclaim for others to see that they are saved. My most recent project is a cause called "Jesus Loves You" which simply passes along the message that...well..."Jesus Loves You"! I hope that it spreads like wildfire. In less than 48 hours, it has grown to over 50 members. It's my goal to start something within Facebook that hass the potential to reach the millions of Facebook members and let them each know that Jesus Loves Them...and that He gave His life for them. (If you haven't already...PLEASE join the cause and invite others to do so. Facebook Causes REQUIRE us to set up a benficiary for donations, so I chose Shaohannah's Hope, an AWESOME group with a fantastic purpose. It was started by Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman. We are proud to know much of the Chapman family, so it is an honor for us to help support the endeavors of our friends.)

All this talk of using technology and the internet for God's glory sparked a question with me? What MORE can I do? The internet is vast...and there is more to be done. So I ask....what are YOU doing online to promote God and His purpose?

I normally do not post a lot of comments sent to this blog...but I want you to be an intregal part of this discussion...so feel free to comment below and let me know how you are using the internet or other technology for God's glory!

2008-11-01T20:28:00.002-05:00

When my son accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior three years ago - I was ecstatic. I was on the third day of a children's revival and had seen about twenty kids each night who had accepted Christ. When my son stood up on the third night to accept Jesus ... well ... I'm sure you could imagine my elation. I can imagine the emotions my son had...because I went through the same emotions before.

Oh, to return to those days. Tonight, as I turn my clocks back in the house...I'm going to turn myself back to those days. I'm returning back to the days when all was new, when all I ever wanted was to study God's Word, and had the newness of being a Christian.

How Will God Use You?

2008-10-31T22:54:00.004-05:00

I was just reading the latest Worship Leader Magazine and saw an article from Paul Baloche. In the article, he shares how 20 years ago, he had no desire to ever sing any lead vocals, much less be the voice for God he is today. No, instead - Paul's take on life was "I'm just a band guy." Paul goes on to share how all that changed one day when the band was playing softly, and the worship leader asked in the microphone if Paul would come forward and lead the congregation in song while the worship leader prayed with some people up front. He was never the same after that.

The point is...Paul was someone content to sit on the sidelines and do nothing more than be "a guy in the band." God, however, had different plans for him. What kind of plans does God have for you? Paul's "sideline" was just blending in the back with the band. Perhaps your "sideline" is sitting around knowing that you have a desire to serve...but are too afraid to take a step of faith with Him guiding you.

This next weekend, we will have the chance to audition several people who have decided that they want to step out of the sidelines and audition for our worship team. Maybe you are a wiz with the camcorder...couldn't God use you running a camera at your church? Perhaps you have a green thumb. Could God use you to create beautiful floral creations for the sanctuary?

But how can these small things do anything for God? Yes, Paul was a musician and came forth to be a worship leader...but I can assure you, the job he was doing before is an important one. Without the guys in our band backing us...the whole worship experience would not be the same. You see, God uses us to help let His light shine. A couple of months ago, we had the pleasure of having an out-of-state woman fly in to our church in order to be baptized. Why, you ask? Because she watched our services online and felt God's calling into obedience in baptism. She wanted to fly to the place that ministered to her. Thanks be to the folks who ran the cameras, produced, directed, the audio folks, lighting folks, and the website director who made it all possible for the woman to come to her decision. Now, I ask you...would you consider what all of these folks did trivial in comparison to the end result for one out-of-state woman?

So I ask....how will God use you?

Jesus Jedi

2008-10-31T14:06:00.000-05:00

Enough said.

:SONG SEARCH: "Glorious One" by Steve Fee

2008-10-30T00:48:00.002-05:00

Steve Fee has created some awesome worship songs. His song "Glorious One" is no different. It's lyrics paint a picture of what it will be like to stand in God's present and be able to do nothing more...than worship the "Glorious One".

Our hands are lifted high
our hearts are bowing reverence
and we're surrounded by
the glory of Your presence

with every creature every tongue
we're lifting our voice to the Glorious One

Glorious One
Glorious One
Light of the world
You outshine the sun
King of all Kings
eternity sings
Glorious One

God of infinite worth
with hands that carve out the ocean
You hold the universe
and still You run to the broken

with every heart that's been redeemed
we're lifting our song to the Glorious King

there is none more beautiful
there is none more wonderful (repeat)

URGENT Re-post on behalf of a friend

2008-10-28T14:37:00.002-05:00

You know I don't post anything unless it is significant....and saving children to me is pretty important. It is why I passed along the information from my friends, the Bynums. Together, you helped her raise the money needed to adopt another child away from a bad situation. Now, I ask another favor on behalf of the sister of a good friend of mine, Micah Huebner. PLEASE take a moment to read and pray about the re-posted email below.

---------------------------------------

We are finishing up our home study and dossier and getting geared up to send it to our agency and then off to Ethiopia. It has been three months since we accepted the referral for our next sibling set of three, and we are reaching the deadline to have everything turned in and ready.

BUT, we still need over $19,000 within 3 weeks to be able to do this. Our three kids in Ethiopia can't wait much longer, so we are desperate to get the funds in ASAP. Not only will this mean that our three will have a family THAT MUCH SOONER, but it will also allow for three more children to move into the orphanage and begin their own journey to a family. Three lives are hanging in the balance here.

We are asking everyone who reads this to prayerfully consider giving to this adoption journey. Your gift of even $25 goes a long way in the end. Or perhaps you might be able to give a great deal more. Maybe you own a business that could make a substantial tax-deductible donation. Or perhaps your church would consider contributing to this cause.

Please forward this email your friends and family and refer them to our blog site at www.blessingsfromethiopia.blogspot.com.

We are trusting God to provide, but He does it through people, so we earnestly need the village to come together for this one...one more time!

If you feel led to be part of this journey, either again or for the first time ever, we (and all of our children) would be eternally grateful. We know that in this crazy economic era, giving is more difficult. Trust us, though, that this is an investment that will lend you eternal rewards.

If you feel led, you can donate in one of the following ways:

First, you can donate directly to us via the link on our blog site. It will take you directly to our paypal account where you can donate securely. Every penny will go straight to our adoption fund.

Or, you can donate directly to our agency and receive a tax-deductible receipt for your gift. To do so, follow these instructions:

To send a check, make it payable to CWF and put Kirk and Heidi Weimer in the memo line.

Mail checks to:
CWF (christian world fund)
Attn: Tracy Froidcoeur
777 South Allen Road
Flat Rock, NC 28731

OR

o give an instant, secure donation online, go to the Christian World Foundation website.

IMPORTANT: Select CWA/CWF General Fund. Then click next to CWA Family and fill in the information for us: Kirk and Heidi Weimer.

EVERY PENNY OF YOUR GIFT WILL GO DIRECTLY INTO AN ACCOUNT SPECIFICALLY FOR OUR ADOPTION EXPENSES.

Thanks so much to all of you who are coming alongside us in this miraculous endeavor. We are eternally grateful for every single cent that comes our way to bring these three precious ones home to their family. We are awaiting miraculous provision and praying for every penny of this process.

Many blessings to you forever,
the weimers

PS- Please email with any questions you might have.

"Worship Storytellers"

2008-10-24T23:54:00.005-05:00

A few years ago, I had a group of friends who had one passion in life - songwriting. We all had a profound love for assembling verses and choruses along with the sensations we got writing the "perfect bridge"...and life was great. We called ourselves "Storytellers". As a songwriter, you get the ability to craft words in such a form - such imagery that it can make people laugh, make them cry, recall a certain time in their life, or reflect on the future. It is powerful stuff.

Somewhere along the way, I decided to simply sing songs. My love for singing turned into a game and gamble for a recording contract, a label deal, and a road down the best-paved path of "good intentions". Now, I'll be honest, it was a fun ride and I made a lot of good friends. It isn't uncommon to hear a new song by an artist on the radio these days and say "I know - hung out with - performed with - recorded with - wrote with - or am friends with him or her." (Take your pick) And while I miss those days to a certain extent...the truth is - I longed for something different.

I had a long heart to heart years after those "hay-days" with my now good friend Ron Alley. We were sitting eating lunch one day and I told him about how I wanted to give up on everything secular because I felt the Lord pulling me to doing only works that glorified God. Ron smiled and reminded me of one very important lesson - he reminded me that everything we do should be to glorify God and that we can do it in the strangest of places. Ron went on to give the scenario of taking any given popular secular artist - and hearing someone from a church saying "you know, you should use your talents for God. Why not sing contemporary Christian instead?" His point was this - imagine for a moment if that secular artist did just that? Yes, it would be awesome to me (here goes my emo side) if John Mayer became a contemporary Christian artist...or a worship leader, for that matter - but what if John ended up taking his life in a different direction instead? What if John Mayer did the music he did today - but led his life as a Christian and...even for a brief moment...let it be known of his faith and God and spoke - even briefly - about what his faith meant to him.

Now, what if I did the same? What if I didn't give up on my secular music? It was a point well taken........

....but I don't think for a moment that Ron was saying "this is what you need to do - definitively!" You see, I've thought very seriously since that day about breaking back in to that world again. I just cant shake a stirring inside of me for music, singing, and songwriting. Tonight, thou, everything in my being came clear - I want to sing, write, lead, and live for God.

I just recently finished a song called "Masterpiece". It is a song that contains the spirit of what Ron and I talked about - letting God's light shine in all that we do...even if it isn't "Christian". After finally finishing a much-needed second verse, I played it for my wife and asked for her thoughts. We talked for a bit and then I told her "you know what I want from this song? I want just one person to hear it despite the number of times God may allow it to be heard and say "I want to give my life to the Creator!" I can't think of any greater joy than this!

I find more and more each day that I have that longing to help foster a spirit of Worship in others. As I do...it allows me to worship in every area of my life. Just today, when the final shoe fell, I was contacted by an A&R consultant about the possibility of using one of my secular songs in a movie. (Where were the A&R's back in the day when I would have begged for them to call?) I told Crystal about it - but couldn't find joy in it. Why? Perhaps its the fact that I have always been around some for or fashion of leading others in worship. I was probably nine or ten years old when I led my first church in worship. I grew up - did "my own thing" despite God only to return years later to be a Worship Pastor. Then, another hiatus and a few months of saying "No, God...I can't" only to have God tug at my heart to join my current church's worship team. I couldn't have been happier to return to that love.

A little later, I thought - "I really need to write more songs. I haven't done that in who knows how long" and the reality started sinking in that I wanted to stop with all secular writing - and write the music that means most to me - the music that led, in part, to my finding Salvation. It wasn't long after I had pretty much decided to give up all that was secular in my music offering that I got an invitation to join my church's songwriter's group. We have an amazing wealth of talent in our church - and I count it an honor to be a part of them...but I don't think it is a mistake. God knows where my heart is. I want to tell God's story. I want to be a "Worship Storyteller". I want to start "warming up" now for the day that I get to sing like the angels in Revelation who couldn't seem to stop singing for God.

Who knows where this may take me. I may write commercial or I may write just for personal worship. I may write worship songs for our church or I may write songs worthy for play on a Christian station. All I know is that I long again...and it feels GREAT! I'd return, at this point, to being a Worship Leader/Pastor in a heartbeat...or I'd be just as content to write a song for others to Worship Him with. Regardless of the path I walk as I find where God is leading...a few things are sure:

I want to sing, write, lead, live for God - and tell God's story.

"Go Tell It" .... He saved your life! An Awesome thought!

2008-10-16T15:24:00.002-05:00

I think this is the greatest written line in a song...plain and simple..."HE SAVED YOUR LIFE!" I loved singing it...and I love how folks even here at work have talked to me on a level they have never done before. Its making some ripples for God!

Just Watch...

2008-10-10T16:17:00.002-05:00

Forget "More Cowbell" ... Fee gets "More Cymbal"!

2008-10-10T14:00:00.002-05:00

How NOT to get in the church band...

True Love

2008-10-09T14:14:00.000-05:00

Yet another video fromthe same church....

True Love from FC Post on Vimeo.

New Creation

2008-10-09T13:45:00.001-05:00

Wow! That's all I can say. You talk about bringing a different level to Worship! Thanks to Kyle Campos at Our Rising Sound for frist showing this!

New Creation from FC Post on Vimeo.

Just want to see where this lands.

2008-10-06T17:02:00.002-05:00

I'm saying "goodbye" to my old secular country days and, instead, focusing on writing Christian songs and worship songs.

I had an 8 year old secular song at a site called "OurStage" last month and it ranked 186 by the time it was done. I didn't go out and solicit votes - instead - I wanted to see how the song handled on its own merits.

For this last go-round...I want to give my friends and family the opportunity to listen and vote this time. so........ click here:

My myspace page and Reverbnation page will soon be taken down. You can view them here:

http://www.myspace.com/jasonwhitehorn
http://www.reverbnation.com/jasonwhitehorn

PLEASE Pray and Help My Friends - the Bynums

2008-10-02T21:34:00.002-05:00

Friends, I wanted to pass along a blog entry from an awesome couple that go to church with my family. They have an exciting opportunity to adopt their already adopted daughter's full sister who is just about to be born. The problem is, they need to collect $12,000 in 48 hours.

PLEASE do not let the dollar amount shock you - there are so many intimate details that I don't feel the need to share in this blog - but let us say that you will be helping in a HUGE way to make SO many differences in this world. PLEASE pray that God will reveal to you how you may be able to help the Bynums...and then click the link below to learn more.

http://adoptionphotoblog.com/

Accoustic Live Version of "Praise The Father, Praise The Son"

2008-10-02T14:05:00.000-05:00

Who Is Your Audience?

2008-10-01T14:14:00.002-05:00

I have set on my cellphone a ringtone of "Audience of One". This is the song that I try to let my worship in song attest to. If you've never heard it before...or if you've heard it amillion times before but never taken the time to just sit a moment, close your eyes, and let it minister to you - take a moment to do so now.

We recently had an opportunity as songwriters to talk with EMI CMG Vice President Casey McGinty at on of our meetings. He discussed the number of times that he wrote songs and became frustrated that there was no one there to hear them...and then the satisfaction and joy he got to realize that there was, in fact, someone of utmost importance there to hear them...his Audience of One.

Thank GOD that we have Him to hear us - and that it is HIM that we serve and sing to!

"Take My Life" - From "New Song Cafe"

2008-10-01T09:18:00.001-05:00

This song is great for both private and congregational worship. The words are simple yet powerful. Enjoy!

Fireproof - The Movie: A MUST See For All Couples!

2008-09-30T22:39:00.000-05:00

Defend the Weak

2008-09-26T14:04:00.002-05:00

Matt Redmond recently led the song "Everlasting God" at a pre-conference. He changed the last line of Brenton's awesome worship song. Take a look at the video.

And so we must defend the weak / and comfort those in need / you lift us up on wings like eagles

iLevite Fellowship : The "Facebook" for Worshipers

2008-09-25T23:56:00.001-05:00

View my page on iLevite Fellowship

Go join ... I'll see ya there!

Praising God For Pocket Lint

2008-09-25T13:47:00.002-05:00

In his book “In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day” author Mark Batterson makes a statement comparing two differnt types of people:

I think there are basically two types of people in the world: complainers and worshipers. And there isn’t much circumstantial difference between the two. Complainers will always find something to complain about. Worshipers will always find something to praise God about. They simply have different default settings.

In his book "Wild Goose Chase", he talks further about praising God and thanking Him for some of the simplest of things. I actually tried this one day - as I got ready that morning, I thanked God for a few obscure things...even pocket lint (there's a purpose for it...right?) As I drove to work, I started thanking God for steering wheels, floormats, cell phone towers, cardboard, gasoline ... it became less and less trivial...and more and more "look at all these things that we have and here are their purposes...these are all from YOU, God!"

We may all have "default settings". Regretably, I'm both a worshiper and a complainer. If something wrong is going on in my lfe...believe me...someone is gonna hear about it. I even try to counter-balance this fact by answering the simple question of "How was work" with "it was there..." just to avoid complaining. The truth is, we can change these default settings if we complain. You see, when I took my drive to work that day, I found it impossible to complain about anything when all I could do was thank God and praise him for all that he created.

Take a look at Paul and Silas. Beaten and battered by a Roman crowd, Paul and Silas were in a prison and had plenty of reason to complain. What did they do?

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God, while the other prisoners listened. Suddenly a strong earthquake shook the jail to its foundations. The doors opened, and the chains fell from all the prisoners. (Acts 16:25-26)

So here they are, in a dire situation - and they were singing praises to God! When the earthquake came - they were calm...they were worshipers - not complainers.

Believe me, I will have to fight hard to take the same dose of advise that I am giving each of you - but find those opportunities to always be thankful for what God has done. You can praise him without singing...you can worship without complaining...you can find the beauty of God even in the worst of situations...and even you can find a new way to look at.......

....pocket lint.

New Look

2008-09-22T23:26:00.001-05:00

Had to get a "facelift" on the blog tonight. Thoughts? I'm going to be changing up some stuff to add some Worship Leader Resources as well as some songwriting resources soon...and wanted to "spruce things up" a bit.

Worship With The Masses

2008-09-22T16:56:00.002-05:00

So there I am last night making a first...taking part in an online worship event that one worship leader in Atlanta just decided to begin. Its amazing to think that technology can outreach like this. God is staying vcurrent and relevant to today's times. If you get a chance...take a watch. Its simple...just a few guys in front of their laptops...doing worship!

http://www.ragamuffinsoul.com

Forgiven - Awesome Song!

2008-09-21T22:55:00.001-05:00

I'm digging this song for its power and truth. Can tell where it could take a little different arrangement for worship...but, WOW, the words! Simple and honest and true!

McWorship : Drive-Thru Church Ideology

2008-09-21T02:16:00.003-05:00

I remember vividly having a discussion with an associate pastor the day I changed the order of worship. The amount of songs were the same, but the manner in which the songs, opening prayer, announcements, baptisms, etc were changed. It was my job to arrange the Worship Service - so I was within my mellon...and, after four nights of praying about it - I really felt that my new layout was more condusive to worship. My Associate Pastor...didn't agree.

What was the issue? Being dead set and stubborn in old ways? Not so much - the main issue came out in his words: "Jason, we have to be out of here by 11:30 and that is of the utmost importance. We can't change the order and get us off time." Wow! I took the time to explain that the songs and my order would run the same time as our normal service, with no difference in the time needed for the pastor to preach. The scary part was that the associate pastor felt that this was of the utmost importance.

Worship...true worship...is of the utmost importance. We live in such a society of drive-thru's and technology designed to speed every life process up - that we tend to expect the same type of drive-thru mentality of "first window, pay...second window, pick up food..." at our churches. We sing songs in a habit rather than a true state of worship - we refuse to learn new songs because we're afraid of the one person out there who "doesn't like that new stuff" and "just wants the hymns" and we get locked in routine. Routines...and worship can become a bad match.

I'm reading the book of Malachi right now. God gives the priests and folks of Isreal an earful thru the prophet Malachi in the book for being half-hearted in their worship. As a matter of fact, there are some pretty strong words being poured out from our God.

It makes you question every aspect of what you are doing in worship. Is it true? Is it what God wants? Is it for a clock, for a few people...or for God?

God gives a promise in Malachi 3:10:

"put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need."

Don't get caught up in McWorship. Get caught up in God.

I'm truly thankful that I attend a church at FBCSmyrna where worship is real and worship is not constrained - where it is realized that worship isn't just music and songs - but the whole experience of connecting vertically with God from the music...to the message. I am truly honored to be a part of the worship team at FBCSmyrna.

If you happen to read this blog and are from the Smyrna area - I welcome you to worship with us. Take a vist to www.fbcsmyrna.org to learn more.

"Pure Praise" - A FREE Book You MUST Get

2008-09-19T23:17:00.003-05:00

(thanks to my friend Micah Huebner for pointing out this awesome find!)

No matter what role in worship you have (and we all have one, don't we?) you should check this book out. It will rock your socks! Until November 30th, you can download an awesome nine week study geared towards worship folks called Pure Praise: A Heart-focused Bible Study on Worship! Did I mention that the book is being offered 100% FREE???

Just head on over to Next Level Worship's blog and you can grab your own copy after providing some basic information. (Don't worry, I've gotten no spam.)

I am truly lovin' the daily devotionals and I hope you will, too!

In Christ,

Jason

Gospelr ......... The Christian Twitter

2008-09-19T21:00:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my friend Sully for turning me onto this new tool. Gospelr is a great new tool that functions much like Twitter and even interacts with Twitter but also gives you the ability to "chat it up" with other Christians.

Give it a shot, you'll enjoy!

The Adoption.......ALMOST Done

2008-09-19T20:11:00.002-05:00

Went to the courts today to take the proper steps to complete the adoption of the kids. Final court date is October 8th and there will be two new Whitehorns. (They've always been Whitehorns at heart...but now the last name will be official.

October 8th, 2008 at 12 noon ... I'll be the happiest daddy in the world!

Chris Tomlin Sings Country

2008-09-16T13:59:00.004-05:00

I'm STILL laughing!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2noSI8CJ8w

(Sorry, embed is disabled by the original poster....but it is FUNNY!)

Evolution of a Worshiper

2008-09-15T23:08:00.004-05:00

I first saw this cartoon in an issue of Worship Leader Magazine and laughed so hard until I realized how sad it is. Someone once said we laugh at things that we find a bit of truth in. Sadly, the cartoon rings true with so many folks.

Why have we gotten so..."stiff"? For some, it may be fear. I once heard someone say "I want to go to a church where I can feel comfortable raising my hands in the air if I want to without thinking that everyone is looking at me." For others, it may be that the Spirit doesn't cause him/her to respond with arms stretched into the heavens. To each of these - I'll attempt to address.

To the scared worshiper...guess what? You're not there to please anyone in that church but to praise God! Paul, writing to the Ephesians, said we are to worship "singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord" (Eph. 5:18) and even tells the Corinthians how they should worship when they go to church:

"When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation" (1 Cor. 14:26).

It's your interpretation - and if the Spirit moves you to raise you arms in the air...then raise 'em high!

I had to laugh because of a comment my wife made to me. She said, "you know, when the camera gets a close-up of you on the jumbo-screen and your arms are raised...you look like you have no neck." We had a good laugh because we finally figured out it was because of one of the many camera angles that our videographers takes at an upward angle that gives the "no-neck" appearance. (I'm also about 10 pounds heavier on the screens .... but that's another issue) It's one thing to have a laugh about it after the fact with my wife...but would I change my emotions or be self conscious of how I look on camera while I am glorifying God? Not at all! My worship is to God, not to my image.

The bottom line....worship from your heart - and worship how you feel comfortable. Don't let outside sources (unless, of course, its the Holy Spirit) influence you!

Worship Workshop

2008-09-15T15:21:00.002-05:00

When Paul Baloche speaks - I like to listen. He has a lot of insight for Worship Leaders. If you have a small worship team or a well developed team - this is a video you will want to listen to. Sometimes we all overdo it.

I am blessed to be at a church where music comes from the heart as if it were poured from the soul of Heaven itself. The musicians are awesome and have hearts of gold - but it the music comes from listening to each other - and to hearts and where the Holy Spirit is leading. Take a watch/listen to this video.

Part One:

Part Two:

No wonder there is a vision for "Two United States"

2008-09-15T14:56:00.002-05:00

I've often pondered why the statement exists about there being "two United States" - alas....I have it figured out.

With all these extra states...there HAS to be another USA involved!

Men, SPEND TIME WITH YOUR WIVES....

2008-09-15T12:07:00.003-05:00

I would say that this post take a break from my Biblical posts - but it doesn't. The Bible admonishes us to love and honor our wives - and this past week, I've gotten to get closer to my wife and have loved every second of it.

We got to take a honeymoon together for the first time in over five years as husband and wife. We got to spend plenty of dates with each other - more dates than we have been on in more than ten years than we have been together. That is sad.

We let our lives get so consumed with our day-to-day tasks that we forgot about us. We forgot that we still have needs. Even when I was leading Worship and my wife was Preschool Director at our last church, she started a "Parents Night Out" once a month to help other parents have time together - but the shear organization alone left us with barely enough time to go out and grab a quick bite to eat on our on - so we never got to trully partake of the time utilization then, either.

We've now learned a lesson - we HAVE to take the time for oursleves...to go out on dates...to be 16, 17, 18...whatever the dating age is (32 if you are my daughter) and just date.

The bottom line....HUSBANDS....date your wifes! I think in today's day and age, God would have made it a verse in the Bible.

Last, but not least....I LOVE MY WIFE!

Going On A "Honeymoon"

2008-09-08T07:26:00.004-05:00

As you know, me and my wife finally had the wedding ceremony we never to have five years ago when we were wed at the home of a judge-friend of mine. While it was nice - a "ceremony" it was nice. We decided it was high time to have a true cermony complete with gown, wedding party and the works.

That was a few weeks ago...

Now, we are taking on the joyous task of having our honeymoon ... finally. We will be heading back to the same spot where we took our renewal of vows - Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

We will be taking the week to spend some quality time with each other. You'll find that, this week - I will not be blogging as much or spending as much time online. I'm gonna find out what it is like when you stop spending time worrying about work and music and the rest of life's business...and start concentrating on your wife!

More from the "Goose"

2008-09-04T23:47:00.001-05:00

Read a statement in Mark Batterson's new book that made an impact and I wanted to share. Just take it in for a moment and think about it:

"It takes more to react like a Christian than it does to act like a Christian."

Sometimes it takes a simple line to get ya thinking and reflecting.

"Lay It Down"

2008-09-03T18:29:00.001-05:00

Simple lyrics...yet speaks volumes...a great worship song written by Matt Maher and Brenton Brown.

Everything I am
Everything I long to be
I lay it down at Your feet

Everything I am
Everything I long to be
I lay it down at Your feet

I lay it down
I lay it down
I lay it down
At Your feet

Oh pearl of greatest price
No act of sacrifice
Can match the gift of life I find within Your gaze
Oh, what a sweet exchange
I die to rise again
Lifted up from the grave into Your hands of grace

More "Strange" Finds

2008-09-02T17:06:00.003-05:00

More while searching through yearboks...These two cats look vaguely familiar. Can't seem to place the "hood"lums, though.

Found some interesting stuff......

2008-09-02T14:41:00.004-05:00

SO I was surfing around today...and found some interesting yearbook pics. Micah, you have some relatives that we aren't aware of??? And WHATS up with the hair?

2008-09-01T12:25:00.002-05:00

Ok....if you know me, then you know that I love the Worship music of Chris Tomlin (can't call my cell without hearing a Tomlin song...) and you can't know me for long without knowing my close love for the Chapman family...so this song is an awesome "throwback" from the New Song Cafe.

What's totally awesome is to think of a man who seems to trump all in Contemporary Christian like Steven say that, when asked to do the WOW cd, he was beginning to do a Tomlin song. Man, that is a compliment.

Ok......I'll digress from my Chapman-Tomlin rant for a moment.

The song "We Fall Down" is written from where a few of Tomlin's songs are sourced from - Revelation 4.

6and before the throne there was(N) as it were a sea of glass, like crystal.

And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are(O) four living creatures,(P) full of eyes in front and behind: 7(Q) the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with the face of a man, and the fourth living creature like an eagle in flight. 8And the four living creatures,(R) each of them with six wings, are(S) full of eyes all around and within, and(T) day and night they never cease to say,

(U) "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty,
(V) who was and is and is to come!"

9And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne,(W) who lives forever and ever, 10the twenty-four elders(X) fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast(Y) their crowns before the throne, saying,
11(Z) "Worthy are you, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power,
for(AA) you created all things,
and(AB) by your will they existed and were created."

I think about the same thing when I sing songs like Revelation Song! Imagine the scene...angels who can't stop singing praise and Worship the King of Kings! Can you imagine? I actually LONG to hear that ... and that is what this song is all about!

Corporate Worship Tunes....

2008-09-01T10:48:00.001-05:00

Funny...but makes a point....

2008-09-01T10:02:00.003-05:00

Found these on GodTube. There church that did a series called "What Should A Christian Look Like?" To Illustrate their series, they did a whole set of videos that parodied the "Mac vs/ PC" commercials.

While they are funny...they make you think. Why do so many people tend to try to fit in to the rest of the world instead of just letting His light shine within us?

Glad I'm not in the market....

2008-09-01T09:46:00.001-05:00

Now I've seen it all.

"Its All About You"

2008-09-01T08:34:00.003-05:00

Wow! Isn't God just awesome?!? You know, one of my favorite songs to lead is "Jesus, Lover of My Soul (It's All ABout You)" because of the trueness of the words. I can't begin to tell you how many times life each week would get me so wrapped up and self centered...I'll admit that there were times that I would wake up on Sunday and drive in for pre-Worship rehearsal and think "God, I'm not even worthy to be doing this today with as __________ (insert the week's emotion) as I feel today." But as I sang that song, it would all be so clear and so true. It is all about Him!

Now that I'm worshiping at FBCSmyrna I'm once again reminded of the "joys" of waking up early on Sunday morning to rehearse after having practices throughout the week. I know there may be some who love getting up early - but you can ask my wife...I'm not one of them. Despite my issues with getting up in the morning - do you know what makes it all awesome? The hearts that the whole team has! Now, don't get me wrong...I wouldn't trade my previous teams away and cast them to the wind...but these guys make it so enjoyable. Despite the shear number of times that we go over these songs - they don't just become words...when it comes time for Worship...God is there...and (loved the prayer, Micah...so I have to include it) ... "God sings over us"! It's hard not to raise my hands, smile, cry, and just sing!

Chasin those geese.....and riding horses?

2008-08-27T22:42:00.002-05:00

If you haven't already, go out and buy Wild Goose Chase. If you haven't started Chasing God - what are you waiting for? He made you...He claimed you...He's calling you...DON'T JUST STAND THERE!!!

Now that we've gotten that out of the way...

I can't begin talking about this book without thinking about a stand-out portion from another great book The Man In The Mirror. In that book, the author talks about living your secular life and spiritual life. He likens it to a circus horse rider. You've seen him/her before. The rider stands atop two horses, carefully balancing both, switching balance between the two as he/she rides around the arena. It's easier as the horses ride together, but if the horses start drifting apart, the rider has to make a choice between the two as to which one he/she wants to stick with.

Its the same with our lifes on our adventure with God. We can have our spiritual life and our secular life...but we if those horses split....which one are you gonna choose?

Worship was awesome...

2008-08-24T12:34:00.004-05:00

Worship was awesome this morning and music was spectacular and I finally pickup up my copy of the book Wild Goose Chase. I'll be blogging more and more as I redo the book and let you know how God is taking me on my new adventure. listen

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Is it just me? or is...

2008-08-24T12:34:00.003-05:00

Is it just me? or is it impossible to sing the song "Revelation Song" without wondering what it would be like to be up in heaven, Singing before the throne of God with all the angels. Holy holy is the Lord God Almighty. Man isn't that song awesome. listen

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Wild Goose Chase

2008-08-23T00:45:00.001-05:00

This Sunday, I get to start my new journey heading on a Wild Goose Chase. This is a new book by an awesome guy named Mark Batterson. I encourage you to go out and pick up a copy of the book yourself and learn more about getting back into a new adventure with God.

Stay tuned to the blog as I will be posting my thoughts and daily devotions about the book.

(A special thanks to Sully for the opportunity, in advance, to read the book!)

The TECH-Church

2008-08-22T13:58:00.002-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me at how far we seem to leap and bound in the technology field. I was reading a blog yesterday about "missing things from 90's worship" and I realized just how far we've come today in the technology front.

At my church, we have a fantastic crew of folks who make services flow in a seemless manner using various forms of multimedia and the end result is pure worship.

I had to do a double-take today when I realized how much more the doors were openned out there between our day-to-day life and the church itself.

Take...Twitter. I use Twitter daily. I keep up with friends. They keep up with me. We talk about when we are in need of prayers, leaving for work, praising for joy....or sending pictures wearing hats that no person in this world should wear (Sorry, Micah. Greg Norman, you are NOT, brutha!) - but all in all it is an interseting tool that we use on a daily basis.

I took a look at Wikipedia and what it had to say about Twitter and was suprised to see this:

Westwinds Church in Jackson, Michigan uses Twitter as a part of its weekend worship services and introduced the concept of Twitter Church [12]. Westwinds runs training classes for Twitter and encourages members to bring laptops and mobile devices to church. On occasion, the Twitter feed will be live on the screens in the auditorium and everyone is encouraged to give their input, make observations, and ask questions in an interactive worship format.

Wow! Twitter in church! Kind of puts new meaning to "following" someon in Twitter...especiialy if you're trying to "Twitter Jesus!"

Cardboard Testimonies

2008-08-21T11:07:00.003-05:00

A worship pastor friend of mine in Facebook that went to my old high school posted this AMAZING video from YouTube. I had never seen it before but it is AWESOME. How true is this? What would your cardboard testimony say?

"Healer" part 2

2008-08-21T09:20:00.003-05:00

Let me clarify - based on an email conversation last night - the difference in how I feel we should be handling this mishap as Christians.

Is what Mike did fraud? Yes. There is no doubt about it. Is what WE do as Christians turn our back on Mike for what has happened? ABSOLUTELY NOT! What Mike has done is no worse than the sin I have in my life. Don't get me wrong...I don't want to make it seem as if it is small to have "made up" an illness for all to believe - but my point is not that. My point is that sin is sin. The Bible says that we have all sinned. God views that sin the same. Mike is dealing with that sin now - and we should be praying for him.

My previous post was in regards to the many who are now posting on YouTube saying "this song is a fraud and should be taken off of here and the radio and never played again..." absolutely not. The song still stands as a true anthem. God will continue to work through the song. Guess what...God will continue to work through Mike, too.

Don't forget to give him your prayers. I'm sure he could use them. So could the congregation and youth he led.

"Healer"

2008-08-20T11:31:00.004-05:00

So...sad news today. The writer of the song "Healer" (an awesome song, btw) seems to have turned out to be a fraud. I can't help but think back to a recent editor's note in Worship Leader magazine that talks about how God manifests in many areas, though. The editor talked about how they did a cover article back in the day about Mel Gibson and the "changes" the Passion made in his life. We all know how that seemed to have turned out. But straddle that fence for a moment. Look on a broad scope. Chase that Goose for a moment! (Love that buzz phrase, don't ya) Didn't he do wonders for millions of other people? Its not about him! Its about what God did through the medium of a movie.

Guess what? "Healer" is still about what God can do through the medium of a song with other people. And ya know what? God can heal disillusion and deceitful folks, too!

"What we need is more Studds in church"

2008-08-19T18:04:00.003-05:00

Wow wow wow wow! I cannot WAIT to read this book! Mark Batterson's new book Wild Goose Chase hit the stores today. Mark put out snippet of the book on his blog. Man...talk about a quote!!

What is most lacking in the church of Jesus Christ is not education or resources. Keep learning, but we are educated way beyond the level of our obedience. And keep giving, but we do not lack the resources to alleviate poverty or fight injustice or spread the gospel. We are the most resourced church in the most resourced country the world has ever known. You what is most lacking? Good old-fashioned guts.

The will of God is not an insurance plan. It's a daring plan. And more often than not, the will of God will involve a decision that seems unsafe or insane. Dare I suggest that the twenty-first century church needs more daring people with daring plans?

In the words of a daring twentieth century missionary, C.T. Studd: "Some want to live within the sound of church or chapel bell; I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of hell."

The church needs more Studds! And you can quote me on that.

- from the book Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson

"God of This City"

2008-08-17T20:17:00.003-05:00

This is another one of my favorites that I thought I would share (thanks to Micah). It ranks a close second to "Honestly" by Elias Dummer.

“The Greatness of Your Name”

2008-08-17T14:54:00.002-05:00

I must say, I am so impressed with the work God has done through Micah Huebner and Scott Mills new song that was "debuted" today at FBCSmyrna during our Dare U To Move series. (wow, can I possibly fit any more hyperlinks in there?) The song fit so remarkably well in with the purpose of the series, but also fits well in with our global purpose with the Lord's work in general. As soon as I get the dynamic duo's permission, I'll post lyrics, music, etc on the blog as it is one I would recommend using in worship. AWESOME song!

"Everlasting God"

2008-08-16T16:23:00.001-05:00

No matter how you cut it, these words will just rock your socks off and speak volumes to your soul! Lead it sometime if you haven't lately.

Let me clarify that...

2008-08-08T13:13:00.002-05:00

Let me clarify that last blog, while me and Crystal are out for our anniversary this weekend I won't be doing any official blogging, so I'm using a handy tool called Jott to do my blog. Stay tuned for little shot bursts of blog here and there. listen

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I'll have to admit that...

2008-08-05T19:09:00.002-05:00

I'll have to admit that I actually liked watching a little bit of American Idol this last season, and liked David Cook, and just realized that the song "Dare You To Move" was actually performed on the show by David Cook. Interesting since the upcoming series, "Dare You To Move" has the song included in it. Just thought I'd share. listen

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"Don't Let The Sun Set"

2008-08-05T14:26:00.003-05:00

You'd think you've heard the phrase a million times in your life until you hear it from a friend you admire - a friend who has a right to say it. Over the past couple of months, my heart has been in such deep prayer for Steven and Mary Beth and the kids - Jim & Yo and the entire extended family for what has transpired with Maria.

In all the prayers I could have for the Chapman's....leave it to Steven to have the prayer for the rest of us that we would not let the sun set on differences or issues...and that we would hold each day we spend with each other so dear. I am so guilty of harboring ill against a setting sun.

I am so thankful that God is using Maria's life and using Steven and Mary Beth and the family to touch others today - that good things can come from an otherwsie tragic situation. Tears of joy come to my eyes to know the truth in what Steven says...."if I believe anything that I sing about - I will dance with my Cinderella again."

Amen, Amen...and Amen!

Prayers for the Chapmans

2008-08-04T16:29:00.002-05:00

The Chapmans have decided to speak publically for the first time to a national audience (aside from Steven's concerts) by several television interviews. Steven, Mary Beth, Emily, Caleb, and Will will be talking to Good Morning America, Larry King Live, and People Magazine about the May 21st tragedy with Maria.

It's joyous to know that God can use this to His advantage - but puts me in a state of prayer at the same time. This puts the Chapmans in a very vulnerable state. Let's all join together and ask prayers of intercession for them as they take part in these interviews.

"Jesus, Messiah"

2008-08-03T22:31:00.002-05:00

I love this song from Chris Tomlin. Its on the New Song Cafe. Notice how Chris makes mention of how beautiful the name "Messiah" is. Isn't it? Ironic the the "Annointed One" (Messiah) gave the ultimate annointment when he died to make atonement before the Father for the sins of the world. How could your heart not cry out "Jesus! Messiah!" in worship?!?

No blog today. I'm spending...

2008-08-02T16:43:00.001-05:00

No blog today. I'm spending time, my family celebrating my daughter's 7th Birthday. It's hard to believe that my little angel is 7 years old but the last it's true. Have a good day. listen

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What If We Treated Worship Like NBA Games?

2008-08-02T04:08:00.003-05:00

Caught this video on blog.worship.com and thought I would share.

Pastor's Search for the Holy Grail (Monty Python style)

2008-08-01T18:04:00.002-05:00

Hmmm....what would ya get if ya cross Pat with Monty Python? This "Pastor Cory" beat us to the punch. Funny, though. Take a look.

Hey guys, I found this...

2008-08-01T12:50:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, I found this really cool tool called Jott. It lets me call my cellphone and then speak into the phone and jott transcribes my voice into my blog. So, I'm actually speaking the words to my blog right now. Pat Hood you've really got to get this tool. The only downside is, unlike your sermons, there is a time limit. listen

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Who Do You Go To Church For?

2008-07-31T17:40:00.003-05:00

Love the message here!

Do You KNOW That Your Redeemer Lives?

2008-07-31T11:42:00.003-05:00

When you sing worship songs - or any song for that matter - do you just sing the words...or do you really meditate upon what the song trully means? I want to share with you some thought that I shared with a friend of mine online last night who was having some issues with his some trials. This thought focuses around an awesome Nicole C. Mullen song "Redeemer".

Let's think for a moment beyond the music, beyond the amazing voice that Nicole has -and go deeper into what Nicole was worshiping about when she wrote the song. You see, Nicole wasn't the original author of the words "My Redeemer Lives!" ... Job was!

“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the
earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see
God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My
heart faints within me!” (Job 19:25-27 ESV)

To understand how important Job's statement is, we have to understand where Job is coming from. Most of us understand that Job has just been through deep grief and is about at the end of his rope at this point - yet Job still proclaims "I know that my Redeemer lives!"

What is trully amazing about this is the sheer amount of faith that Job has. No, this isn't normal faith. You see, Job is believed to have been one of the first books of the Bible written. There was no Matthew....no Mark...no Revelation. There was no series of sermons that Job got to go to hear that Christ was born, died, buried, rose and ascended to Heaven to prepare a place for him. Job didn't get the memo that his Redeemer conquers death in the end and that no matter what he does - no matter how weak or little he does...CHRIST's grace and Love is sufficient. No - Job knew one thing:

Job Loved God. Job believed that no matter what happened to him - his Redeemer lived.

Wow! How awesome would it be to have THAT kind of faith to NOT be that certain of the outcome, yet be that confident of our love of God and Jesus that we could say, in the midst of troubles, "MY REDEEMER LIVES!"

In Christ,

Jason Whitehorn

The NEW Blog

2008-07-31T10:33:00.002-05:00

So....Mr. "I'm Super-Cool Tech" lost my password for my old blog so I had to start a new blog. Sadly, I can't access it any more. What's even worse is that it took having to comment amount Micah's passion for Ninteno gloves (if you must ask...you just weren't cool enough to remember) to be forced to remember my password in the first place. This set off a chain reaction of events which, alas, resulted in the new and improved Jason's Rants & Praises Blog. (Same stuff as the old one...new blogger name.)

As always...God Bless....and send all complaints to Micah Huebner for the Blogger namechange mishap.

In Christ,

Jason