INSPIRATIONS

"So many different things inspire me in my songwriting - Bible passages, paintings, books, poetry and, of course, life experiences. I want to share some of these things with you and maybe they will inspire you too!"

I. LIGHT OF THE WORLD This painting by William Holman Hunt inspired me to write the song "Open the Door". The painting depicts Jesus, the light of the world, standing at a door which is overgrown with ivy and weeds. The door represents the door to someone's life. Jesus is knocking at the door and waiting to be invited in. There is no handle on the outside of the door; we must open the door from the inside to let Jesus into our life. We have the freedom to choose. The painting had such a profound effect on me that I just had to write a song about it.

II. GOD ON A HARLEY

This book by Joan Brady (Simon & Schuster) is a funny and inspirational story that touched me. I have read it several times and get something new out of it every time. I highly recommend it!


III. THE PRAYER OF JABEZ

And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying,
"Oh, that You would bless me indeed,
and enlarge my territory,
that Your hand would be with me,
and that You would keep me from evil,
that I may not cause pain!"
So God granted him what he requested.

I have read the book The Prayer of Jabez by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson (Multnomah Publishers) many times and I say the prayer as often as I think of it. I have been truly blessed and seen my territory enlarged!


IV. ALPHA PROGRAM

ALPHA is an inter-denominational Christian course about exploring your faith and developing a closer relationship with Jesus. It involves sharing a meal together, music, watching a video hosted by Rev. Nicky Gumbel and then having small group discussions about the topic presented in the video. Topics include "Who is Jesus?", "How can I be sure of my faith?", "Why and how should I pray?", "Who is the Holy Spirit?", "Does God heal today?" and others. Although a little hesitant at first, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and have been inspired in my music and my life in general. I have since been involved with numerous Alpha programs in churches of different denominations, providing the music ministry for them.

V. ST. MATTHEW AND THE ANGEL This painting by my husband, Anthony, is based on the painting "Saint Matthew and the Angel" by Guido Reni (Italy, 17th century, possession of the Vatican). It beautifully depicts St. Matthew writing his gospel with the assistance of the angel. The painting hangs in our home and its depth and beauty takes my breath away.

VI. BIBLE PASSAGES

These are some of my favourite passages from the Bible:

"Praise ye the Lord! O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good! For his mercy endureth forever."

Psalm 106:1

"The Lord will work out his plans for my life, For your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever."

Psalm 138:8

"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never, loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance."

1 Corinthians 13, v. 4-7


"In that day you will sing: Praise the Lord! He was angry with me, but now he comforts me. See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation."

Isaiah 12, v. 1-2


"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord.

Jeremiah 29:11


To Him, who is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us, To Him be the Glory...

Ephesians 3:20