Let me know nothing beside Jesus.
Let me know nothing beside the Lord.
Let me know nothing beside Jesus crucified.
- “Nothing Beside Jesus” by Young Oceans

During Holy Week I spent time reading and reflecting on Isaiah 53. Then on Thursday I discovered the blessed music of Young Oceans, especially their song Nothing But Jesus. It helped me focus on what is truly important in ministry and in life – Jesus. Too often I get wrapped up in ministry philosophy, teaching schedules, outreach opportunities, and serving the community. They are all good and important, but they are not Jesus.

Lord, I pray that I would know nothing beside Jesus. Help me reflect on your Gospel – the fact that you stood in my place and took the punishment for my sins – every day of my life, not just on Easter. Let my ministry, my life, my all, be defined by Jesus. Amen.

(Image via frozenchipmunk)

My wife received It is Well (the Kutless worship CD) for her birthday. I have been playing the one song almost nonstop because of the incredible lyrics:

If You washed away my vanity
If You took away my words
If all my world was swept away
Would You be enough for me?
Would my beating heart still sing?

If I lost it all
Would my hands stay lifted
To the God who gives and takes away

- “I’m Still Yours” by Kutless

Shall we receive good from God,

and shall we not receive evil?

- Job 2:10

God is good all the time, even in times of pain and suffering. But, are we still faithful to Him? Do we still trust Him in times of pain? Can we say, “I’m still yours”?

(image credit)