Articles and thoughts by Steve Green.
An Unexpected Surprise
March 15th, 2010
As Marijean and I sat in our Jerusalem hotel room this morning having coffee and spending some time rehearsing the gospel, we were struck with an odd realization.
This week we have visited Capernaum and Nazareth. We spent time on the Sea of Galilee. (I actually caught a fish!) We saw the most likely place where Jesus was baptized and where the multitude of Israelites crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land. We walked places where Jesus walked and sat on the Mount of Olives overlooking the City of David. We are profoundly grateful for the privilege of visiting the Holy Land. Yet, as we read our pastor’s prayer/devotional for today our hearts were melted, our eyes tear-filled with emotion and our passion for Jesus stirred beyond what any experience here has done. Why is that? What a place cannot do, the gospel can! This is a remarkable land, but for the vast majority of brothers and sisters who will never make the trip, you already have the greatest treasure right where you are. You can this day, encounter Jesus in all of his grace. Here is Scotty’s prayer.
Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” John 4:29
Dear Lord Jesus, it would’ve been a holy joy to hear this broken, Samaritan woman reenact her collision with the gospel for her friends (John 4:1-42). Water from Jacob’s well was superseded by the water you alone can give—living water that slakes our death-doling thirst.
You exposed her sequential affairs with men then, instead of crushing her, you cherished her—you brought the gospel of the kingdom to the dark continent of her heart. And as she stood in the public square of her community, she was never so free. No longer any need to pose or pretend, she was “out there,” perhaps in the hearing of some of the six men with whom she’d been. “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?”
What but the gospel can give a man like me the freedom to be thoroughly known? Indeed, Jesus, you are the Christ—the Messiah… my Lenten Lord… the heart-knower… the lover of my soul… my righteousness from God… my only hope of glory…
Jesus, you’re the only one who knows every vain, foolish and evil thought I’ve ever conceived… every lustful, greedy fantasy in which I’ve engaged… Only you’ve heard every grace-robbing, grand-standing, gossipy word I’ve ever spoken… Only you know the ways I’ve failed to live up to the demands and delights of God’s Word, and the ways I’ve gone way beyond them.
Only you know my broken-cisterns of choice… my “empty-nothings”—my idols… my sequential attempts to find life somewhere else, other than in you. And as I enjoy your presence this morning, Jesus, I feel both indicted and invited by the gospel. I don’t have to mimic the words of my spiritual dad, I actually mean them… in this very moment. “Cheer up! You’re a whole lot more broken, needy and desperate than you think you are, Scotty. Cheer up! You’re a whole lot more welcome, accepted and loved than you ever hoped or imagined. Both are true because the gospel is true!”
Only this gospel can change me, and is changing me. What a wonderful, merciful Savior you are, Jesus… so very Amen, I pray in your transcendent and transforming name.
39 Comments »
Thank you for this morning encouragement from the Holy Land, Steve! Your ministry has been a blessing too me since I accepted Christ at one of your concerts (in Ohio) twenty-two years ago. What a great testimony this entry is to the power of the Gospel!
Comment by Molly Milligan — March 15, 2010 @ 8:09 am
This is precious, and you’re so right, Steve. The Gospel is not about a place, as special as the Holy Land is; it is about a Person, my Savior, Jesus Christ. To Him be glory!
Comment by Brian McCrorie — March 15, 2010 @ 10:28 am
Wow. This was powerful. Thank you so much for sharing!
…And he said, “If you’ll just drink this water, you’ll never thirst again!”
…
So come to this water
There is a vast supply
There is a river
That never shall run dry!
Comment by Beth — March 15, 2010 @ 11:57 am
Steve:
What a tremendous prayer. Your pastor has deep insight.
I think of our Lord’s words to a group of pensive disciples, “it is better for you that I go away.”
Yes, it is better! I’ve never been to Jerusalem but I am a temple for the Holy Spirit! It is better! Praise the Lord for Emmanuel.
Comment by Brian — March 15, 2010 @ 12:37 pm
Oh Steve -
The grace of God is amazing and beyond amazing and beyond whatever’s beyond that. Scotty has such a shepherd’s heart … it’s broken and bleeds in beautiful ways.
The risen Christ IS here still by His Spirit in all His glory. May we be smitten and smashed. I so appreciate the way you’ve stewarded His grace over the years. And I almost laugh knowing how well you seem to know it’s His grace that gives you the grace to carry His grace. Don’t stop!
Blessings upon you and Marijean as you soak it all in there where He touched down on earth …
Love you brother -
Dan
Comment by Dan Page — March 15, 2010 @ 2:02 pm
Hi Steve,
I am so glad that you have had the opportunity to go to Jerusalem, a friend of mine had the same opportunity and it profoundly changed her family’s life. I may never have the same opportunity, Scotty’s right we have it in the gospel. I want to thank you so much for your ministry ( music ) My family and I have been trough a very tough year I had a Heart attack a year ago …lost my job was diagnosed with diabetes. and to top it off my wife lost her job three months ago…but GOD IS GOOD ALWAYS!!!! your music has really lifted my spirits so Thank you!
Keith, Springfield Oregon
Comment by Keith — March 15, 2010 @ 4:36 pm
I was so excited as I read this blog entry. Thank you for making the glorious Gospel shine even more brilliantly today for all who read this. You are right, those sacred places without the Saviour are only historic views.
Comment by Emily Mitten — March 15, 2010 @ 7:43 pm
One day I would love to travel to Israel and see those places!
Comment by jonathan abel — March 16, 2010 @ 9:56 pm
Thank you Steve for the way you minister to each person. I saw you at Northside Baptist Church in St. Petersburg,in 2009. Your voice is still as great as it ever was. You and WEs Hampton are two of the best vocalists in the world. Keep singing for JESUS. Have a Blessed Easter.
Comment by Joan Lackore — March 19, 2010 @ 7:24 am
Dear Bro.Steve, Thank you so much for sharing that with us today.Your Pastor truly has great insight into God’s Word.That prayer truly blessed my heart.Your music always strengthens me in Christ.I listen to it every night as I fall of to sleep.Your musicalong with other songs of praise to our Graet God He has used to help me deal with pain that I deal with almost on a daily basis.May God richly bless you & Marijean!!Glad to hear that you are safely home.
Comment by Ruth — March 19, 2010 @ 7:44 am
Hi Steve,
As I make trips to Argentina every year..I would love to have a new project by you in Spanish…any in the making?
Comment by Darwin Lay — March 19, 2010 @ 5:58 pm
Darwin, I did record a new Spanish project, but only for release overseas. We may be able to get you some to take with you. Call our office and talk to David.
Steve
Comment by steve — March 19, 2010 @ 6:00 pm
Oh Steve,
Thank you so much for sharing that prayer…WOW!!! Tremendous words from the Lord thru Scotty. Your concert at The Cove in ‘08 really blessed me…I can imagine hearing you sing in the Holy Land. I had the privilege to go there in 1996…it was an amazing and unforgettable experience. From being baptized in the Jordan to getting up early and watching the sun rise while sitting along the Sea of Galilee and a devotional time with communion in The Garden…all were wonderful. As awesome as all of that was - walking where He walked, it is nothing compared to knowing Him as personal Savior and Lord!! We are so blessed!
Thank you for your ministry.
Blessings,
Cindy
Comment by Cindy, Columbia, MO — March 19, 2010 @ 6:36 pm
Thank you so much for your wonderful, spirit-filled music during our trip to The Holy Land. I especially appreciated the song that you and Marijean sang at the concert on Wednesday night…
The Household of Faith…it was a song that was sung at our wedding. My husband passed a way a year ago on that very day, and it was a blessing to hear the song, remember him, and give God thanks for the gift of our time together. God bless you both.
Comment by Jan Cornelison — March 20, 2010 @ 2:03 pm
Jan, it was a great trip and a privilege to be along. Thanks.
Comment by steve — March 21, 2010 @ 1:05 pm
Hi Steve:
I’m glad you had a blessed visit to the Holy Land. May God continue to bless you and Marijean as you ministered together back in here in North America (and Canada?)
I’m looking forward to your concerts in Canada, especially the Oshawa booking. I would also like to know how I can get a copy of your latest Spanish recording project?
It’s wonderful to serve a God of “unexpected surprises”. He always knows what is best for us. Take care and God bless!
Sing-cerely,
Mark aka. MC Stretch
Comment by Mark La Flamme — March 22, 2010 @ 2:22 pm
Steve,
Thanks for sharing your experiences and blessings on your trip to Israel.
I have such a burden for Jewish people..coming to know the Messiah..that it must be awesome to be at the place where He will bring them home. And yet, thanks for the reflection by Pastor Scotty on these matters. When Christ is at home in our hearts, He reigns.
Blessings,
Natalie Kleefisch
Comment by Natalie Kleefisch — March 23, 2010 @ 9:36 pm
Hello, I heard the song “Houseful of Faith” this morning on the radio. This has been the first time in a very long time. The first my husband and I heard song. we gave our marriage to the Lord. We have been thru nightmares and valleys. The Lord is always there. We have been for 36 years. Our familys did not give us 1 year. But the Lord did. Thank you for the song.
Mark and Linda Huber
Comment by Linda Huber — March 24, 2010 @ 7:28 am
Just found your website and read the prayer that was posted. Thank you so much Steve for your ministry. May God continue to bless you, your family and your ministry.
Comment by Doreen Dath — March 25, 2010 @ 8:13 am
That brought tears to my eyes! He knows us, and He loves us! VERY good news!!
I saw on facebook that you are going to be in Peachtree City next weekend. I’m so disappointed that I won’t be able to come to your concert. Please come to Atlanta (or close by) again soon. God bless you and your beautiful family.
Kim
Comment by Kim — March 25, 2010 @ 4:46 pm
Steve,
My husband and I have been blessed so far with three wonderful children, ages 3, 2, and 2 months. The older two absolutely LOVE your “Hide em’ in Your Hearts” videos, and I am so excited to see the Gospel taking root in their little hearts. They love to sing and dance to your songs, and I love it because they are learning scripture. Are you planning to make any more children’s videos?
Brittany
Comment by Brittany — March 26, 2010 @ 12:43 pm
Hi steve,
I do hope i have the chance to go on that same trip you have gone on. I have listened to all of your songs since 1989 and your songs have greatly impacted my moms life and mine. my mom died about a year ago and all of the albums i was missing of yours she had. I even had the opportunity to sing a couple of your songs in church. I pray that the lord keep unsing your voice and your ministry to touch the lives of people who are hurting. God bless you and your ministry. if you can send me an email of your up and coming concerts if any.
Ron
Comment by ron barakat — March 27, 2010 @ 6:02 pm
I have just recently lost a baby..She was stillborn and her death has been hard to bear.
The Lord has taught me so much..One thing is that he is in control and he knows all of our needs.
Reading this has just furthered my trust in Him and that to remember that he will always be with us and that He loves us.
Thank you
Jeannie Calderwood
Comment by Jeannie Calderwood — March 30, 2010 @ 11:01 am
I’m so sorry for your loss and the heartache. No words can soothe your pain. Only our Lord can be that near to you at this time. May the Lord give you sustaining grace.
Steve
Comment by steve — March 30, 2010 @ 3:27 pm
Are you no longer with Sparrow Records? Just curious… the new album is fantastic.
Comment by Jeff — March 31, 2010 @ 8:24 am
Jeff, I was with Sparrow for 24 years and all ended well. The model for today’s musicians is very different from when I first started. I’m excited about the new project and God has provided some great avenues for marketing and distribution. All is good!
Comment by steve — March 31, 2010 @ 3:30 pm
Great! Any loss suffered would be theirs;) But glad to hear nonetheless. I agree, the music industry as a whole (I am a singer myself…beside the point), is so dramatically different even from 5 years ago…However, God will do what He will do, when He wants, and more importantly HOW He wants. Thanks for your response.
Comment by Jeff — April 2, 2010 @ 12:20 pm
Dear Mr. Green,
I have been listening to you for a very long time and I love your albums very much. Your songs have been a blessing to listen to! THANK YOU!
p.s.
I was Thrilled to find out you came out with a new album! God bless you and your ministry!
-Joel
Comment by Joel Parrish — April 2, 2010 @ 12:32 pm
Hi Mr. Green,
I remember when i bought the very first
album and i loved it. My favorite praise is I Am the Vine. Since then i have been listening to all your praises especially in spanish. Since i am spanish it is a great blessing. They are wonderful and a blessing to my life. God Bless you and your ministry!
Comment by Benita — April 9, 2010 @ 5:35 am
what a wonderful comment on our life in christ .thanks for so richly and abundantly encouraging me to day.I will nener forget the concert I went ,so powerful.thanks .please think about commimg to phoenix az. some time
Comment by kathy flanagan — April 9, 2010 @ 1:00 pm
Steve,
Thank you for this new, beautiful album. As I was listening to “God is Love” for the first time, I was overwhelmed with the reminder that God will have the final word. Recently, personal trials have tested my resolve but this song brought tremendous comfort to my heart as it reminded me of God’s great Love which has already won the victory. Also - thank you for recording great music which bridges the generations. My children love your recordings, too! They talk about wanting to meet you and I am always delighted in promising that one day they will sing in the same choir as you - together worshipping our great God. I praise God for your ministry and testimony. God Bless!
Comment by Diana - Colorado — April 12, 2010 @ 9:10 am
Amazing and so true!!!!!!!! Be blessed
Comment by Sarah — April 14, 2010 @ 6:44 am
Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful inspiration!It’s so encouraging to be reminded that no matter what we are, no matter how much we fall, God loves us and will always be there to pick us up! Thank you so much for your ministry to so many people. The music that I have of yours I love and I am so blessed by! It brings me closer to God to hear words that are matched with His Word in beautiful music! So thank you! God gives each of us gifts, but when they are used His way, for His glory… well, the world is going to hear about our Lord!! Praise the Lord!!! And thank you for being a faithful srevant!
Comment by Hannah Philley-WA — April 15, 2010 @ 11:27 am
Ciao Steve, voglio ringraziarti, per la missione che porti avanti, per i tuoi album, e per la tua fede in Dio.
Iddio mi ha grandemente benedetta attraverso il messaggio dei tuoi inni, mi ha aiutata quando c’è stato una divisione nella nostra comunità, quando ho accudito mio figlio in ospedale che lottava tra la vita e la morte, quando ho perso la mia unica sorella, quando ho perso i miei genitori e in tutte le difficoltà della mia vita. Sei il mio cantante preferito e le parole dei tuoi inni toccano sempre il mio cuore e mi mettono in comunione con Dio.
Grazie, Dio ti benedica
Comment by Carmela Ligorio — April 16, 2010 @ 7:09 am
Gosh!, loving to read your xperience there man!, and i was listening you song “Tienen que saber” and after I read your post… I think we have an important mission in our life.., and this is for sure spread gospel to any creature in this world… just talkin’ about his love and his wonderful plan to us… We needa talk and the holy Spirit will do what he needs to do =)… God bless you my dear brother in Jesus
Comment by Winston — April 16, 2010 @ 12:50 pm
This is wonderful! How amazing that God loves and cherishes us broken people.
Comment by Meredith — June 15, 2010 @ 1:53 pm
Steve..interesting how we behold our own breakage. If not for Him, it isn’t pretty. I, too, visited Israel 3 years ago with a good friend. Early one morning, we went down to the Sea of Galilee to swim. All I can say is it was like the feeling of swimming in Fiji water…luxurious. Israel and her people share our own heartbeats. Keep singing for Him.
Comment by Debbie O'Brien — November 20, 2010 @ 12:05 am
Steve, I have “We Believe” bookmarked on my computer. Each time I listen I am lifted to a new resolve to live worthy of Christ’s sacrifice for us.
I listen and sing along with you and it is always a great blessing to my soul. May God grant you strength and desire to press on honor Him with the talent He has given you. I hope to see a live concert someday . But look forward to joining my voice with you in Glory.
Comment by Doug Anthony — December 22, 2010 @ 9:00 pm
Hello bro.Steve;I recently saw you and your dear wife Marijean on a Billy Graham Classic from 1986. You and your wife was singing together and the love and the anoiting that was on you all durning your singing was profound to me. It was obvious to me the love that you all have for one another and the video with your kids was priceless. i’m striving to have such a home. i wanted to found your updated information and came apron your site here. you have a great blog here. Just want to say thanks Steve for you commit to Jesus Christ and your family. God Bless you and your family Steve. peace out.
Comment by Joe Hodges — March 26, 2011 @ 8:33 pm