Tag Archives: pianist

S.A.N.S. Episode 246: To Know You

You have to love music to pursue this career for 25 years. Such is the case of Nichole Ellyse Nordeman who begam performing in 1997. Over the past quarter of a century, Nichole has done a little bit of everything. This includes serving as a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and pianist. One of my favorite songs by Nichole is To Know You.

Thus says the Lord: Let not the wise and skillful person glory and boast in his wisdom and skill; let not the mighty and powerful person glory and boast in his strength and power; let not the person who is rich [in physical gratification and earthly wealth] glory and boast in his [temporal satisfactions and earthly] riches; 24 But let him who glories glory in this: that he understands and knows Me [personally and practically, directly discerning and recognizing My character], that I am the Lord, Who practices loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord, Jeremiah 9:23-24.

The title of To Know You reminds me of the words spoken by an Old Testament prophet. Jeremiah sends an important message to Israel. Don’t get caught up in your gifts, skills, and talents that you have received. Rather, focus on the source, the giver of life. When you get to know to Person behind each gift, James 1:17, you will rejoice like the lyrics of To Know You.

by Jay Mankus

S.A.N.S. Episode 220: Sweet Dreams

Today’s song comes from a duo with special voices and a talented pianist. I stumbled upon Andra and Mara while searching for new artists on You Tube. The lyrics of Sweet Dreams aren’t focused on fantasy. Rather, upon experiencing a special dream, Andra and Mara are eager to act upon the message they received. Perhaps. the dream that inspired this song was similar to what happened to Mary and Joseph.

For in a multitude of dreams there is futility and worthlessness, and ruin in a flood of words. But [reverently] fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is], Ecclesiastes 5:7.

King Solomon looked down upon dreamers who spent most of their time thinking rather than acting. Subsequently, if Solomon heard this modern song, he would applaud this like the apostle Paul’s words to a teenage pastor in 2 Timothy 1:6-7. The phrase fan into flame compliments the lyrics “I’ve gotta go now” suggesting the need to take action. May this song speak to your heart.

by Jay Mankus