After the Sufferin' (song)

 No matter who you are or your position in life, you're going to face hard things in life. Life is hard. We all go through our own sets of suffering at times. Whether you're a cashier at Ingles trying to eke out a living to provide for your family and dealing with unruly customers at the outset of a pandemic or you're Bert being constantly frustrated and annoyed by Ernie- the suffering still comes. The Lord sends His rain on the righteous and the wicked. 

Even when it's hump day and you are trying to make it through a tough week at work at a dinky little job, you can take hope in knowing there's a point to the suffering- and an eventual end to it. And God uses it to draw us closer to Him and make us more righteous. And we know that the glory coming will make these sufferings seem light. And while we're in the midst of trying times, we look forward to Christ's coming- and trust Him to help us move forward in this life while we wait for redemption of our bodies and the freedom from corruption coming after the suffering is done.

"After the Sufferin' "

(parody of "After The Lovin' " by Engelbert Humperdinck; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 5/16/2020)

(Hebrews 12:1-17, Romans 8:18-30)

Though sin clings oh so deep- cast it off 'cause of

Witness throng that is close- cast off weights

Run with hope and endure- Eye Founder

And Perfecter of our faith

Endured cross, despised shame all for joy set before Him

My own faith- it just seems to go dry

Haven't struggled so much with sin now to the point my veins bleed- Why?

Spankings chasten me (echo: Spankings chasten me)

As a son disciplined by Love (echo: Son disciplined by Love)

And spanking's telling me (echo: telling me) I'm viewed as God's son (echo: God's son)

Though it stings now we'll reap after the suffering

Oh a bushel of fruit- righteous lives (echo: Oooohh!)

Strengthen up, make paths straight and be healed

With God's grace, no one pass by

Make it so that garden isn't springing a bitter root (echo: Ooohhh!)

Oh, and as for this summary, it's all in 12 Hebrews (echo: Ooohhh!)

So I bring you to read chapter 8 Romans 

Can't brush off like hair these hard times (echo: chapter 8 Romans)

But the glory coming when revealed that it makes suffering light (echo: when revealed, it seems light)

And I know creation is still waiting to be renewed (echo: Ahhh!)

Oh, set free from corruption (echo: free from corruption)

Spirit's adoption too

Yes, bodies' redemption (echo: bodies' redemption)

We're groaning, God, for You

Mmm- after the suffering

I'm waiting, God, for You 

Christ in a Nutshell (song)

(Note: I'm pulling a few more classics out of the archive. My last post referenced the lines I used in this parody so it only seemed fitting to post this next. I've included my original introduction from 2009 below. Since I had two others that seemed in a similar category of lyric-tweaking that already seemed to be such a good fit to talk about The Lord, I will post those other two soon too.)


    I've been wanting to share a few more parodies I've written recently and they most all deal with some things that have been coming up in church lately actually. And they're all really favorite songs of mine, some of which just struck me as being such a good song already that it would only take a bit of tweaking to bring about a really great song talking about The Lord. So I plunged in to it and God helped me bring the ideas into fruition.
    Here's a song that wraps things up nicely and just states really what Christ is about and what our life is about in Him. I loved the second verse so much and it worked so well that I left it mostly intact. Take some time and a sip out of your 70's-style Coke bottle and enjoy. ;-)

"Christ in a Nutshell" (parody of "Time in a Bottle" by Jim Croce)
(parody copyright by Nathan Ludwick 10/02/09)
(John 3:3, 3:16, 10:10, 14:6, Romans 8:1-2, 10:9, 2 Corinthians 6:2, 2 Peter 3:9)

If I could state Christ in a nutshell,
The first thing that He'd like to do
Is to save every name for eternity- He just can't wait
Just to spend it with you!

Since Christ can make change last forever
His Word conveys this is for you
Get saved and today
Christ will never condemn
Romans
8 explains- 1 and 2

(Chorus)
But you never seem to think about Christ
You do the things you want to do
But you'll find out
I've looked around enough to know
The only One I want to know is Christ, yes!

If I had a box just for wishes
And dreams that had never come true
The box would be empty except for the memory
Of how they were surpassed by You!

(Repeat Chorus)
and fade....

.............................................................................

Yemana's First Class (Barney Miller's Roll) (song)

Note: This is an older archive entry that I just thought was funny. :-)


This one I just had the idea for one day and just had to do it because it was too funny not to. This is another one of my favorite classic ‘70s rock tunes that even if your mama don’t dance and your daddy don’t rock and roll to- you’ll probably enjoy it. And it was just too fitting that I was able to fit one of my favorite characters’ names in from one of my recently newly engrossed in ‘70s sitcom favorites. (I’d known about the show but never really watched it until watching the first few seasons on DVD from the library. :-)) Even if I have to watch the show in a crumbling old building with questionable plumbing and a diverse group of wacky but hilarious and dedicated cops- Barney Miller keeps it all under control somehow and helps make it bearable. :-)

“Yemana’s First Class (Barney Miller’s Roll)”
Copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/31/2011
(parody of “Your Mama Don’t Dance” by Loggins & Messina)
(Proverbs 15:30 seems to be about the only applicable Bible reference here- lol.)

Yemana’s first class
And the sergeant’s no-go, Wojo
Yemana gambles
And uh, Harris just rocks the clothes
Then Dietrich comes around
And it’s time to lay Fish down
Where’s Chano?
He’s off the roll

Well, in New York state
There’s a lot to fill the plate for them
If they’re out on a stake
For muggers-(they’re) homely dates as women
You know there’s more confusion
You know whenever Luger (just) comes on in
I’ll say it again

And it’s all because
Yemana’s coffee’s bad
And Wojciehowicz just rocks the boat
Yemana’s work-challenged
And uh, Harris just writes novels
What Dietrich knows abounds
And it’s time to go (to) the john
For Fish is old
He’s not dead though

They pile into 12th. precinct
And type up their reports
They often do without things
‘Cause they know NY’s so poor
They’re just about, uh, losing
Patience- wanna scream!
There’s a lot on these guys
Haul in the suspects
“You got one call, Longhair”
“Marty- you’re coming with me”
“And no bargain pleas”

And it’s all on Barn
Yemana’s right hand
Man to Barney Miller, you know
Carl Levitt wants a chance
And finally gets it down the road
What Dietrich knows abounds
And he’s tied with Harris now
There’s ol’ Wojo
He rocks the boat
What do you know?
He got sarge- yo!
Where do they go?
To Barney’s roll!
………………………………………………….

Truth Springs Free (Glory Days) (song)

Note: This is an entry from the archives that I thought was appropriate with the new Mister Rogers movie out now, who is one of my modern Christian heroes! :-) This song pays tribute to a few of the saints who have gone before me that I can't wait to meet in glory days in Heaven!
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This one is my probably my third or fourth favorite from the boss of ‘80s rock. And it’s all about a number of my Christian heroes that have inspired me (although there are many others I could list than the song lists- like Rich Mullins, Keith Green, St. Francis of Assisi, Larry Norman, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Jim Elliot, my parents and family and friends and tons others. :-))
       But since I mentioned Mister Rogers earlier many times on this blog and I’ve espoused on something that was close on his heart (which you can read more about in “The Simple Faith of Mister Rogers” by Amy Hollingsworth- seriously, get it. I cry on certain passages in that book- so good!)- I definitely wanted to present this song of Christian heroes of the faith. I would have liked to known them, oh, but I was just distant- their candles burned out only for millions to begin. :-)) But we’ll meet in Heaven- and what a day- a glorious day- that will be!

“Truth Springs Free (Glory Days)”
by Nathan Ludwick copyright 6/25/2011
(parody of “Glory Days” by Bruce Springsteen)
(Hebrews 11, John 13:35, Hebrews 12:1-4,1 Corinthians 15:51-58, John 3:16-17)

I had a friend-Was a good next door neighbor
Back in pre-school
He would show that Jesus loves you
Make you look to your true worth
Saw him embody Christ- Mister Fred Rogers
I was watching him; he was walking out
13:35 in John- Francis (of) Assisi
Gospel he kept preaching without words

Chorus:
Glory Days- (in) the sweet by and by
Glory days- well, we’ll meet on a golden shoreline
Glory days, glory days

Well, there’s a girl that stood up for God
Cassie, you did good- gun took ya (to) Heaven
Columbine- I cry- Rachel Scott- sigh!
God has those two kids and their steadfast witness lives on
There was a woman- Corrie Ten Boom- yup yup
She hid the Jews from Germans- wow!
Jesus got her out Nazi camps of genocide
She went- Chinese people smiling
She was a tramp for The Lord now

(Repeat Chorus)

(Now, I) think ‘bout going up to go dwell with Christ
And I’m going to meet Paul and Eric Liddell
And I hope ‘till I get Home I won’t just sit ‘round thinking about it
But do God’s clear will
Yeah, just sitting back waiting for The Rapture
Belittles all The Savior’s love while lives slip away
In Hebrews 11, list of
Godly warriors in

Hall of Faith
Yeah, (in) the sweet by and by
Glory days- well, we’ll meet on a golden shoreline
Glory days, glory days
I’ll be there praising Christ
Glory days- in the twinkling of an eye
Glory days, glory days!

(Background vocals)
(How ‘bout this? It’s alright! Ooh yeah!
For all time! With Christ! Come on up! Oh yeah!
Get real life in Christ! Ooh yeah! Oh yeah!
All right! All right! Come on up! Ohh!
Woohoo! Uh huh! Woohoo! Oh yeah! Woohoo! Ooh! Woohoo! Oh!
All right- Joy! Keeps up rocking now!
Keep on going! ‘Cause we’ll be Home now!
Bring us Home! Yeah! Bring us Home! Oohh! Hold on! All right!
Yeah!
[We’re in Christ! (Woo!) x5]
-With Christ! Let’s Go!)
…………………………………………………………

Lord, You're The Inspiration! (song)

(Note: Another favourite from the archives. It's always a good day to praise The Lord! Psalms 118:24)

This one is a favorite of mine by, by far, the best rock band with a brass section that I’ve ever heard! And Relient K did an awesome cover of the original classic on their “Is For Karaoke” album in 2011. (Which I do believe is what really introduced me to this song, though I had been familiar with the band for much longer.) And The Lord gave me a blessing in getting to visit the namesake of this band the year I wrote this along with some beloved friends. And through it all- He is the One who makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him. And He’s the One who drives me to write, live and do anything. He’s The Inspiration! 

“Lord, You’re The Inspiration”
(parody of “You’re The Inspiration” by Chicago)
(parody copyright by Nathan Ludwick 3/1/2013)
(John 10:1-16, John 10:27-30, John 6:37, Isaiah 61:10-11, Luke 19:10, Psalms 27:10, Jude 1:20-25, John 15, Hosea 1-3, Hosea 11, Jeremiah 31:3, Isaiah 26:3, 1 John 3:16, Romans 10:8-13, John 3:16-17, Psalms 25, Psalms 103, Psalms 19, Psalms 104, Psalms 189, Psalms 73:22-26, 1 John 4:19, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalms 8, Malachi 3:6, Titus 3:4-8, 1 John 3:1)

I know our love is meant to be
The kind of love that lasts forever
And I want You here with me
From tonight on past the end of time 
You sure know everywhere I go
You’re always on my mind, in my heart, in my soul 

Savior- You’re the Meaning in my life (Lord,) You’re The Inspiration!
You bring feeling to my life
You’re The Inspiration!
Wanna have You near me
I wanna have You hear me saying
You know I need You, Lord- yes, I need You! 

And I know, and I know, yes I know- 1 John 4:19
We only love ‘cause You first loved us!
Now I know, now I know, that I need You here with me
I’m with Christ on past the end of time 
You sure know everywhere I go
You’re always on my mind,
(You’re) in my heart, (You’re) in my soul 

You’re The Meaning in my life
You’re The Inspiration!
You bring feeling to my life
You’re The Inspiration!
Gonna have You near me
Gonna have You hear me saying
You know I need You, Lord- yes, I need You! 

Ohhh……. 

Always have You near me
Always want You (to) hear me saying
You know I need You, Lord- yes, I need You!  You’re The Meaning in my life
You’re The Inspiration!
You bring feeling to my life
You’re The Inspiration! (Always have You near me)- [background vocal]
When you love Somebody- Past the end of time
When you love Somebody- Always on my mind
You know I need You, Lord- tonight
When you love Somebody- Past the end of time
When you love Somebody- Always on my mind
(I need You, Lord- tonight)[background vocal] ……………………………………………………………………………….. 

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! Praise Him all creatures here below! Praise Him above, ye Heavenly hosts! Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost! Amen!  Peace and love of Christ to you. Hebrews 13:20-22 (especially verse 22- you guys know how short I keep these things. ;-)) 

God's Love (song)

 (Note: Another favourite from the archives. It's always a good day to praise The Lord! Psalms 118:24)

     And now for something we hope You’ll really like! These next two posts are love songs to God- to the God of my life who fills my life with His life and makes life worth living! And it’s all through God’s Love shown to us in Jesus. Praise God for His love!

  “God’s Love” (parody of “My Love” by Petula Clark)
 (parody copyright by Nathan Ludwick 3/1/2013)
(Malachi 3:6, Psalms 25, Psalms 8, Psalms 73:22-26, Psalms 139:17-18, Psalms 103, Zephaniah 3:17, Psalms 104, Psalms 19, Hosea 1-3, Hosea 11, Isaiah 61:10-11, Luke 19:10, Psalms 27:10, Matthew 23:37, John 15:9-17, Romans 8:37-39, Romans 8:1-4, John 6:37, John 10:1-16, John 10:27-30, 1 John 4:19, Isaiah 49, 1 John 4:7-21, Romans 10:8-13, Titus 3:4-8, 1 John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Jeremiah 31:3, John 3:16-17, 2 Peter 3:8-9, 1 John 3:1, Jude 1:20-25, Revelation 20-22)

My God is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My God is deeper than the deepest ocean Wider than the sky
My God is brighter than the brightest star That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change my God!
Something happened to my heart the day that I met You
Something that I never felt before
You are always in my life no matter what I do
And every day I see that I want You, Lord

My God is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My God is deeper than the deepest ocean Wider than the sky
My God is brighter than the brightest star That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change my God!

Once I thought Your Love was meant for anyone else but me
Once I thought You’d never call my name Now I always know like Gomer found, You still love me
For now I hear You tell me every page

My Love is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My Love is deeper than the deepest ocean Wider than the sky
My Love is brighter than the brightest star That shines every night above
And there is nothing in this world
That can ever change My Love!
My Love is warmer than the warmest sunshine
Softer than a sigh
My Love is deeper than the deepest ocean Wider than the sky
My Love is brighter than the brightest star That shines every night above
And there is nothing in the world
That can ever change My Love!
.................................................................

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! Praise Him all creatures here below! Praise Him above, ye Heavenly hosts! Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost! Amen!  Peace and love of Christ to you. Hebrews 13:20-22 (especially verse 22- you guys know how short I keep these things. ;-)) 

My God Brings Healing (song)

NOTE: This is one of my favourites from the archives! The original song is a great party song that gets a lot of energy quickly flowing so it seems quite appropriate for the parody version I did, which is essentially a praise and worship song to God for all the many ways, physically, emotionally and most importantly spiritually, that He brings healing. :-)
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Well, here's another parody for you. It's a lengthy one, but it’s all about how my God brings healing. And it offers many examples in The Bible of how Jesus brought physical healing to people and of course- it also shows how The Bible explains how Jesus brings spiritual healing through salvation!  You may not like this parody any better than eating your black eyed peas at dinner, but I got a feeling you’re gonna like this one. ;-)

“My God Brings Healing”
(parody of “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas”)
(parody lyrics copyright by Nathan Ludwick 5/27/2012)
(Matthew 11:1-6, Luke 4:14-21, Isaiah 61:1-2, Psalms 147:1-5, John 8:31-36, John 5:1-15, John 9, Mark 5, Luke 5:12-16, Psalms 23, Mark 7:31-37, Matthew 8:14-17, Isaiah 53, Exodus 15, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Psalms 103, Romans 5, Romans 10:4-13, John 20:30-31, John 21:25)

My God brings healing
In my life- go and read in John 9
I was blind, now I see all through Christ
I was blind when conceived so God could shine

For healing
Well, go right there and read in John 5
Paralyzed and I need some pool time
That’s when Christ came to me- made me walk right

It’s healing (Ooo-hoo)
Well, go right there and read in Luke 5
Leprosized and I need Jesus Christ
That’s when Christ came to me- sent it goodbye!

He’s healing (Ooo-hoo)
Well, go right there and read in Mark 5
Demonized and I need Jesus Christ
That’s when Christ came to me- sent it goodbye!

That’s why The Christ
Came live with us
Luke 4 now, honey
Get Kindles up (read)

Hearts’ wounds to bandage
Christ is my God!
Pump out that shofar
Let’s get Word out (for real)

I know that He’ll heal us all
If we get down and just bow
Jesus- move us all (kneel)

I feel blessed and
I wanna let you know
Just go pray now, “Save me now”
And give Him all control (feel)

Fills up your cup
Mazel tov!
Look how it’s spilling
Just shake it up (spill)

Christ saved us now
His love abounds!
We learned The Truth
Amen- look to 8 John then (free)

Let’s do it- look to it- just do it
32 [three two] in 8 John then- learn Truth and
He frees us up (free)

The Truth is like glue- it, resumes, renews, improves us
Christ Jesus re-dos us brand new- He (heals!)

‘Cause my God brings healing (Ooo-hoo)
Well, go right 7 read in Mark, a’ight?
Deaf and I really need Jesus Christ
That’s when Christ worked on me- (I) hear and talk right!

He’s healing (Ooo-hoo)
Well, go right there and read in Mark 5
“She is dying,” Jairus pleads, “Give her life”
And when Christ’s on the scene- raised her alive!

That’s why The Christ (Yay!)
Came live with us (He’s Christ Jesus!)
Matt. 8 now honey (17)
He took hurts up (Diseased for us!) (Real)

Took out our rashes! (Trashed it)
Christ is my God! (Christ is my God!)
Pump out that shofar (Come on)
Let’s get Word out (peal)

Fills up my cup (Read!)
Twenty-three (Psalms)
Look at it spilling (Oozing! Oozing!)
Just shake it up (Spill)

Christ saved me- wow! (Saved me- wow!)
His love abounds (Love abounds!)
I learned The Truth (Woooo!)
Amen- look to 8 John then

Let’s do it- look to it- just do it (Just do it!)
32 [three two] in- 8 John then (Read it) Learn Truth and
He frees us up (free)

The Truth is (Truth is)
Like glue- it (Like glue- it)
Renews us, improves us, resumes us (anew, yeah!)
Christ Jesus (reviews us), renews us (renews us), re-dos us (Yay!)
New in (Hey!) 2 Cor. (5:) 17!

He’s The One- He heals, yo!
Jehovah Rapha! (Psalms 103)

Read in Psalms- Healing flows
147 [one four seven] : (3- binds us up!) (heal)

Exodus 15- rock
Read it, don’t stop (26 rocks!)

You’ve looked ‘round, up and down
Around for God (God is in the Dock) (Real)

God came to save all names from burning (Choose Him!)
Died on Calvary but was raised on Sunday (Choose Him!) (Real)

Get-get-get-get-get Jesus!
I know you’ll be saved (saved!)
Pardoned for always
P-p-p- pardoned ‘cause He paid! (deal)

And He’s dealing (Ooo-hoo)
So tonight go and read God’s invite
Act tonight when you read Romans 5
That The Christ’s own obedience makes right (real)

He’s healing (Ooo-hoo)
So tonight go and read in verse 9 (read)
Romans 10- go and kneel- pray to Christ
Confess Christ and receive eternal life!

Woohoo!
………………………………………………………………..

Killer (song)

As a Halloween and Reformation Day treat, I thought these next two songs would be appropriate. This is sort of my Hell and Heaven suite. The first one is about one of the scariest figures in The Bible- the devil himself! The world paints a lot of false images and ideas about him, but the world doesn't know jack, son. The Bible gives us information about that old serpent throughout its pages and sometimes thinking about his and his demons' evil workings in the world can be more frightening than reading the latest Stephen King thriller. But even though he is a thief, destroyer and killer, we don't need to fear Him when we're in Christ because we know the One who has defeated sin, death, Hell, the demons and the devil. And in the end, his doom is sure- one little word shall fell him.

"Killer"
(parody of "Thriller" by Michael Jackson; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/31/2018)
(Genesis 3, Revelation 12, Ephesians 6, Zechariah 3, Matthew 4, Isaiah 14, Ezekiel 28, John 8:32-36, Job 1-2, James 4:7, 2 Corinthians 11:3 and 13-15, 1 John 4:4, 2 Corinthians 4:4, John 8:39-47, Luke 10:17-20, John 10:10, Genesis 4:1-7, 1 Peter 5:8-9, 2 Corinthians 6:2, Matthew 16:21-23, Romans 8:11, Romans 10:9-13, Revelation 20, Romans 16:20, Revelation 20:10)

He's closed in his sights and something evil's lurking in the garden
Pumping half-truth/lies, Lucifer's trying to just sow doubts in hearts
Adam and Eve- what terrors will resound after you taste it!
Now Earth's diseased- with horror, look how you bought all the lies
You're penalized!

'Cause he's a killer, thief and liar!
And God's Son's gonna save you from the beast though His heel he'll strike
You know it's written- Genesis line
3:15 prophesies that Christ will crush the snake's head- that's right!

You read some more- bam! Ezekiel shares from where he did come
"You were in Eden- anointed as a guardian cherub"
You chose thug life- you know that this is just in 28, son
You were exiled when there was evil creeping up inside
You're out on your behind

'Cause you were filled with killer pride
O Day Star, son of Dawn- Isaiah chapter 14 writes
You said, "I will be like Most High"
Your flight has been denied because Jehovah's always Most High

The devil's fall-
12 Revelation gives a pass backstage
Third go with Satan in star wars of Heaven- 4th. line
(The demons' side)
Since the dragon's tail swung wide

They're out to get you- those demons and dragon- 17 line
They will possess you unless you take The Saviour's offer now
Now is the time- go 2nd. Corinthians 6:2- it's there
All through The Christ- He'll save you from the terrors of your sin
He'll make you clean

'Cause He was killed for sinners' plight
And Christ's life was restored by Holy Ghost
Romans 8:11- right!
World, there's a killer, thief and liar!
Won't quit 'til out of time- serpent's a-accuser, tempter, imitator angel of light!

Read in 1st. Peter 5:8- right!
The lion roars at your door- 4 Genesis
The 7th. verse mind
World-roaming killer still at large
So let's read Romans line 16 verse 20- God wins!

(Background vocals: He's gonna school him- that's right!)

(Spoken:)
Dark forces trawl across the land
The midnight hour draws closer at hand
(Since) devil's fall, he's out for blood
To tempt mankind- call evil good
And whosoever shall be found
Without their soul's name written down
In Lamb's Book of Life- they're bound for hell
Those bought by Christ- to joy eternal

(Background vocals: I'm in The Lamb's Book of Life! Will ya be?)

(Spoken:)
Look out! Resist temptings- (and) beware!
He'll run as 4:7 James shares
1 Peter too- Read 5:9- boom!
The God within you's greater too!
And though snake fights to sway your mind
Adversary's marked for Gehenna
For more, read John's Apocalypse
'Cause He will burn forever!

(Ah ha ha ha!)
(Laughter and fade)
...........................................

This World's Not Worthy (Song)

Here is another parody song I've been wanting to share for a while now. It is a musical reminder of the truth of Hebrews 13 that tells us that those of us who follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour are sojourners in this land- aliens on this planet- and exiles in this time given. On our journey we seek to share God's love and truth with others and especially when we get depressed and disappointed in the passage of time, we always look to our true homeland in Heaven and remember that we are citizens of Heaven first. This world is not our home- we're just passing through. This is a song to encourage us in the wilderness and remember the great cloud of witnesses that have gone before us detailed in Hebrews 11. Keep soldiering on as a good soldier of The Lord Jesus Christ. And invite everyone in and trust the Holy Spirit to work from there- He's called out gypsies, tramps and thieves....

"This World's Not Worthy"
(parody of "Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves" by Cher; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 9/24/2017) (Hebrews 11, Hebrews 13, Galatians 3:28, Revelation 21-22)

We're sojourners and vagabonds all travellin' now
We're wanderers like Cain for the Son of God now
Pop in Hebrews 11- read good
Preach and live The Gospel- tell 'em like Hall of Faith- our witness cloud

Fibs, thieves, vamps redeemed
You'll hear us from ol' Abel on all down
'Cause Jesus' blood speaks better word
God had the Christ die for sin and come back now
Use faith and get saved now

Enoch deployed without the death deal
Noah survived- filled ark with animals deal
Sarah's 90, but she had a son
(Abe) rode without a compass
Abe proffered his begotten like God would do with His Son

Crips, Bloods-- Gangs redeemed!
God's power to save people knows no bounds
He's called out hippies, drunks and kings
We're one in Christ- Galatians 3 spells it out
So lay bigotries down

The younger did fool him, but Isaac blessed them both
Jacob followed suit- young'uns blessed
Joe's bones- take 'em- Israel in travel
And he's hidden 3 months, Moses child- uh huh
He'd rather suffer as God's child- uh huh

Kept Passover- The Lamb's blood was sprinkled on post
His people had dry land through the Red Sea- Egypt? No
Jericho's through- Rahab welcomed spies
Picture of The Gospel- Christ's the Scarlet Ribbon- welcome Him inside!

Gideon, Barak- peeps
God's Spirit came on people for a time
He called out Jephthah, Samson- see?
And David right along with Samuel
There's more than I can tell

Swindling, pimps, sex fiends
Delivered- for the City coming down
Thank Jesus! City that we seek
Is there with Christ- all the sin's forever bound
By faith we're Heavenbound

(So come on) Gypsies, tramps and thieves...

All Out For Love (song)

Everybody loves love. The entire world's population all has that desire to love and be loved- to have someone to hold and talk to and care for and to know that this person does the same for them. It's been said that we need love like the air we breathe. But what happens when that air supply runs out? It seems for many people, they fall into love easily enough but then they later fall out of love as well. It's certainly true that feelings come and go- and that's exactly why a marriage can't be based on feelings and physical attraction. It has to be deeper than that! A marriage covenant is a vow taken before God and man that unites one man to one woman in holy matrimony until death do them part! The rise of the "no fault" divorce laws led our society away from God's standard and gave people an easy out to to avoid putting the blame on any one individual. There is no such thing as a no fault divorce- either you truly commit to giving the rest of your life to another person or you don't. God hates divorce and only allowed for it as a concession for man's hard hearts. (And Jesus further clarifies that it's only allowable in the case of marital unfaithfulness. See Matthew 19) And commitments are not often easy to keep- they take a TON of hard work and effort, but the end results are always worth it. And for those in Christ, we don't undertake this effort alone; we can only truly have a successful marriage of Godly love for each other when we are in Christ. When we have experienced the love He showed through His death and Resurrection that pays for our sins, we can then share that love with others. (1 John 4:19) And when we love, we must show that it's real by our actions! Just as the Good Samaritan literally went out of his way to cross over and help the hurt Israelite, we must go totally out of our way- give of our money freely- give of ourselves- do whatever it takes- to share the love of God with others. The example Jesus gave in His parable in Luke 10 shows us a picture of real self-sacrificing love. That's exactly the kind of love God shows us- and the love He expects us to show others. We don't fall out of love- we must go all out for love!

"All Out For Love"
(parody of "All Out of Love" by Air Supply; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 2/18/2018)
(Ruth 1:16-17, Song of Songs [or Song of Solomon] 8:6-7, Jeremiah 31:3, 1 John 3:16-18, John 3:16-17, 1 Corinthians 13, Romans 5:8, 1 John 4:8-12 and 4:19, John 13:34-35 and 15:13, Matthew 5:27-32, Philippians 2, Matthew 19, Malachi 2:13-16)

We're tying the knot 'til we're dead and we're gone
I'm linked in with you better or worse
I know I loved you but what's up now with you?
Lamenting we've drifted apart
You wish I would stare at you like that first March
Some time in our life we let go
I could beg you, "Don't leave"- what a sorrow it'd be
But baby- is it really so? Love has ceased to flow

We're all out of love- our vows have come untrue
You know that sometimes the feelings say, "So long!"
We fall out of love- it's not me, it's not you
We'll call it "no fault"- just say that our love's gone wrong

I want things to come back as they were before
The way Jesus long ago designed
Well, read Genesis 2- Do you see 24?
Go Matthew 19- quoted by Christ

And what does it say? A man and woman unite
They're wed- the two become one
Let no people break- pull apart what God's made
Let's love please with all we've got- all through God

We're all out of love- And 1 John 4:8's true
I know You define the meaning of real love
You showed how to love- Crucified; empty tomb
No love is so great as laying life down for buds

So what do you think of this?
What 10 Luke teaches us
Priest and Levite pass by
Samaritan goes to assist

Went all out for love- To go cross street to dude
You know priest, Levite- they leave him- say "So long!"
They talk about love- what is it without proof?
You must demonstrate to show it's not a gong!

It's all about love! 1 Corinthians 13
It's patient and kind- believing in all things
No self-proud with love- No envy- it's not rude
Endures everything- rejoices with Truth not wrong

(You) don't fall out of love- It hopes in all things, dude
Its own way denies- Unending- No "So long"s
(So) go all out for love! We're nothing without it, crew
Of faith, hope and love- the greatest is love- God's Love!

[Background vocals:
In 8 Song of Songs- Love's as strong as death, dude
The knots- it keeps tied....]
.....................................................................................................

Making Love Based on Nothing at All (song)

Everybody loves love. The entire world's population all has that desire to love and be loved- to have someone to hold and talk to and care for and to know that this person does the same for them. It's been said that we need love like the air we breathe. Yet some find that air supply in the wrong way. Some don't really want love and the lifelong commitment that comes with it in the context of marriage- the union of one man and one woman to each other that God designed. Some people just want sex for their pleasure and want to enjoy it with anyone and everyone and don't want to deal with the consequences that come with sin. This is the ideal generations have grown up with, learning to give out "love" for free, but The Bible makes clear that love always has a price. It costs something of us to truly love one another with the romantic love of eros. It demands a lifetime commitment which we recognize with the ceremony and vows taken in holy matrimony before God and man. And then when our culture is betrayed by the values society has taught us, finding that "free love" also brings abuse and rape and abandonment of parental duties, we seem so perplexed to understand why. When we follow the pattern that Jesus has shown us, we are delivered from so much pain. Let's model our love on the love He showed for us by dying for us to pay for our sins and rising again. (Romans 5:8) Instead of making love based on nothing at all, let's keep love based on the standard God has set. (Philippians 2) It's really He who causes any of us to know true love or to truly love one another at all.


"Making Love Based on Nothing at All"
(parody of "Making Love Out of Nothing at All" by Air Supply; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 12/31/2017)
(1 Corinthians 13, Song of Solomon [or Song of Songs] 8:6-7, Philippians 2, Hebrews 13:1-8, 1 Corinthians 6-7, Ephesians 5, Exodus 20, Deuteronomy 5, John 3, Matthew 5:27-32, 1 John 4 [particularly verse 8 and verses 18-19])

You know just how God whispers
Even though you disavow the Christ
You know just where to find The Answer
But I know you love the lie
You know just how to fake it
And you know just how to scheme
I know just why you hate The Truth
'Cause it exposes your sins- come clean!
And I know that when he touches you
Even though his lines are smooth
I know when he pulls you closer
You don't know when he'll let you loose
And I know it's right hard waiting
In YOLO zeitgeist- live your life!
The world's never gonna give you everything that God will give you
Don't you know nothing really satisfies?
And I know the word "virgin" is
The world's open mark of shame
They ignore all the rules and when sin shows out and breaks 'em
Then they always go and lay out the blame
But it won't go to libido
That's been messed up by The Fall
And I mourn for how they do it

Making love based on nothing at all
Making love when there's no ring that's on
Breaking God's Ten Commandments- The Law!
Taking love out- a sex free-for-all!
Hey, "free love" 's always lying- it costs!
Babe, real love takes commitment- your all!
But your "love" 's based on nothing at all!

And the line 19 in chapter 4 of 1 John says
We love due to God's for us first
And you see love is defined by God, verse 8 says
When Christ died for unright(eous)
Redeeming Love- 1 Corinthians 13 Love
If we're goodniks without love then we're through
You can make like prophets, know all mysteries sought
And burn out like a beacon but if loveless- for naught
'Cause love's not arrogant, rude, envying with boasts
Not wrongdoing- rejoices with The Truth

Its own way denies- stays humble
Irritated it is not
Undertakes every weight, it's hope is found through all things and
Believes all- an all-enduring rock!
Love- verse 8- it lasts forever!
Prophecies (and) knowledge disappear just like tongues
And now faith, hope and love just abide- they all remain
You know the greatest of these three now is Love
But whenever you make love without Truth
What you really want is sex for free- no cost
We're delivered so much pain when first- "I do"

We're in love- matrimony- it calls
Hey, true love waits 'til rings are put on
Babe, real love waits to first tie the knot
Hey, "free love" 's always lying- it costs
Herpes, AIDS, Gonorrhea, et. al.
Maybe not- but STDs aren't all
Taints your love for everyone you hold
You can't love them as your one above all
Chaste, pure love's not a gift you can give
Faking love just like Blanche Devereaux
Making love a slut and open case for all
Shape your love like Dorothy's wise calls
Like her mom, spout truth but lovingly now
Make your love St. Olaf's innocent Rose
Golden Girls- Rose of Sharon beats all!
Proved His love- made Him nothing for all
He is God! Became servant of all
Died for love! Rose up third day, you all
Make your love Philippians 2 style
Make your love based on God's love for all!
............................................................................

Have Your Way, Lord Jesus (Any Way You Want It) (song)

In this journey of life there are many paths to choose. Of course, all the various paths ultimately follow along only two roads- either the broad one to destruction or the narrow one to Life. There are so many choices to make and often we want to do things our own way. Of course, that's when things all go wrong. There are many plans in a man's mind but it's the Lord's will that prevails. He knows what's best and will work things out for our good in His time. It's so much better to say now to God, "Thy will be done" and leave things in His hands any way He wants it.


"Have Your Way, Lord Jesus (Any Way You Want It)"
(parody of "Any Way You Want It" by Journey; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 3/14/2017)
(Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 13:32-42, Luke 22:39-46, John 18:11, Job 13:15, Daniel 3:16-18, Philippians 2-3, Romans 8:28, Romans 12:1-2, Psalms 16, Psalms 20 (especially v. 4), Psalms 37, Proverbs 16, Romans 9, James 4:13-17, Psalms 73 (especially verses 23-28), Psalms 84 (especially verses 10-12), John 6:68, Luke 9:23, Proverbs 19:21)

Any way You want it
That's the way I need it
Any way You want it

I love to plan
I love to dream
I try everything
Proverbs behooves
God must approve
Entrust to God your dreams

All right! All right!
Oh, 16 writes
You roll dice- hold tight
(The) Lord places rolls right

It lands
Any way You want it
Have Your way, Lord Jesus
Any way You want it
I say, And the way I want it
Might not be how I need it
Any way You want it, (Lord)

Jesus alone
My mind renews
What would God have me do?
They're all just dung
My longings
If not for God my King

All right! Psalms writes
16:6 writes
(The) Lord holds tight- my life
Oh, the lines fall nice(ly)

Any way You want it
Have Your way, Lord Jesus
Any way You want it (oh)
I say, And the way I want it
Might not be how I need it
Any way You want it (Lord)

I said, "Whoa!" "Whoa!"
I'm done! Cross on! Roll on!
(Oh,) (Luke says)
Anyone who wants to
Travel with Lord Jesus
Deny oneself (and) wants- oh, oh!
And cross weighs- you're on it
Luke 9:23-yeah
Walk the way God's calling (Oh!)

He said- And the way you're walking
That's been laid by Jesus
Godly's ways are guarded
37 Psalms, yeah
That's line 23, yeah
Go the way God wants it

Give your way to God then
Trust Him, wait and be still
And your faith's rewarded
'Cause Yahweh you're wanting
That's verse 4- so delight
Your heart craves for God then (Ohh!)

20:4 in Psalms then
Watch the way you read it
Only if God wants it (Ohh!)
Any way you want it?
That's the way we lost Eden
Monkey's Paw and Faust- no!

Any way You want it
Have Your way, Lord Jesus
Any way You want it, (Lord)
Any way You want it..........
...................................................................................

God Plans (Trust and Obey) (song)

Note: Here's another old favourite from the archives. Just like one of my favourite hymns says, "Trust and obey for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey."

The Bible says that we are worth much more than the birds that are sold for a penny- we’re worth much more than a flock of seagulls even! So if God thinks of us and takes care of us (Luke 11)- why would we not just simply trust Him and obey Him? Don’t run away- trust and obey!

God Plans (Trust and Obey)
………………………………………………
(parody of “I Ran (So Far Away)” by A Flock of Seagulls) (copyright by Nathan Ludwick 6/9/2013)
(Genesis 1-3, Numbers 13-14, Jonah 1-4, Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalms 33, Proverbs 19:21, Proverbs 16:33, Proverbs 16:25, Proverbs 16:1-3, Proverbs 16:9, Jeremiah 29:11, John 14:1, John 14:23)

I walk alone- Genesis dude
I never thought I’d meet a girl like you
Eve’s the girl I choose
We got ensnared by serpent’s lies
Opened our eyes and realized we’re nude
Heard God striding through

And we scrammed- we panicked and hid away
God just asked- He asked where we were- Hey!
We couldn’t get away

A cloud appears above our heads
And fire by night- both guiding our whole crew
Guides us to subdue
The Lord’s behooving- in Numbers read
The Lord says what is real is Canaan’s through
The Lord will conquer, dudes!

But we ran! We ran from God’s plan- Hey!
Promised Land- we’re banned ‘cause we didn’t obey!
40 year desert stay!

Received command to preach (to) this place
“You go to Nineveh now”- I refused
A big fish stopped my coup
Spat out on land to try again
Been floating in fish three days (and) nights- I’m through
God’s will will come through

When I ran, I ran so far away
I should have just done what’s right- obey!

When God plans, His plans come true always
So don’t run- just go trust and obey!
(Trust and obey!)

………………………………………….

Will You Believe and Ask Him? (song)

Note: Another favourite from the archives. One of my magic references in the song- "The Magician", a short-lived action/adventure show that utilized magic as a means of stopping the bad guys and starred Bill Bixby, recently finally got a DVD release! :-) And that deeper magic of Aslan is finally set to come back to theaters in the near future with things moving along nicely with "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Silver Chair" movie! We must believe in (deeper) magic! Of course, it's always timely to consider Christ and His claims and what we will do with His offer of salvation. As 2 Corinthians 6:2 says, now is the day of salvation!
..............................................................................................................................................


This recounts a specific incident in The Bible. It’s about a certain magician who came face to face with the most powerful magic he’d ever seen. And when he got a lovin’ spoonful of that magic, he just had to have it at any price. But what he didn’t realize was that if you just believe and ask, this magic is totally free! (And yes- bonus points for catching the various magic references I just had to make- especially the one at the end! For Narnia- and The Lion of Judah!) 

“Will You Believe and Ask Him?” 
(parody of “Do You Believe in Magic?” by The Lovin’ Spoonful) 
(copyright by Nathan Ludwick 4/24/2010) 
(Acts 2:38, Acts 8:4-25) 

“Will you believe and ask Him right into your heart?” 
Now then Simon believed that sorcerer upstart 
And his magic- well, it used to be groovy 
Acts 8 reveals Simon’s like an old time news reel 
Philip tells him ‘bout The Master- how He’ll free your soul 
But it’s like Simon now felt a learner in a brave new world 

Yeah, Houdini’s magic- don’t bother to choose 
Earvin Johnson’s Lakers; Orlando and crew 
Bibxy’s “Magician”- or then Merlin beguiles 
They can’t buy off the faith no matter how hard they try 
The peeps start talking- Simon’s not The Divine 
Now they got Christ, so they get baptized 

Then they receive The Spirit- Pete and John laying 
Their hands on them wowing Simon- “Are you selling?” 
“And maybe, if the money is right” 
Well, Pete cuts him off now, stating, “You ain’t right” 
“Your sins- renounce them, baby, then you’ll see” 
“How the magic’s in The Spirit and The Spirit’s in me” 

Yeah, Will you believe and ask Him? 
Yeah, believe in the passion of God’s own Son 
Believe in the power of Resurrection 
Believe deeper magic that can set you free 
Ohh, talking ‘bout Aslan 

Do you believe in Aslan? (Do you believe like I believe?)[background vocal] 
Will you receive Redeemer? (Do you believe like I believe?)[background vocal] 
Will you believe and ask Him? (Do you believe like I believe?)[background vocal] 
(Fade) 
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 

Pre-Fallen (song)

Note: This is another favorite from the archives. I thought it was fitting to pull this one out in tribute to Mr. Tom Petty in light of his recent passing. I hope he truly loved Jesus as he mentions the girl in his "Free Fallin' " song does and I hope he's in Heaven now.

This one is a bit like John Milton’s works. It describes how we got a “Paradise Lost” but it also describes how we can get “Paradise Regained”. Jesus has already done the job! And though we still live in a fallen world, it doesn’t have to be a heartbreaker as the initial outlook was. Rather, Jesus is a heart saver and when we give Him our lives, it’s like we’re pre-fallen!

“Pre-Fallen”

(parody of “Free Fallin’ “ by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers)

(parody by Nathan Ludwick 12/31/2010)

(Romans 3, Romans 10, John 7:37-38, John 8:32-36, 1 Peter 1:18-23, Genesis 3, John 1:12, Matthew 11:28, John 14:1-6, Revelation 3:20, Matthew 10:8, Ezekiel 36:25-29)

In a good world, we’d love The Father,

Love Jesus and The Holy Ghost too

In a good world- baby, now sinless

Rejoices- it’s like Eden 2!

(And) it seems long away- living in Laodicea

There’s a tree with flaming sword to guard

What a sad day when we go and eat forbidden

We’ve been bad, boy- it’s breaking God’s heart

(Genesis) 3- the fall of man!

Adam (and) Eve- we’ve all sinned!

And it’s handed all down through Man’s family

Move east now- 1st. Peter 1- read on

And all the bad, oi- it’s planted in the marrow

But The Good Lord can form us brand new hearts

And now, uh- He’s – He’s calling!

Yeah, get a free- overhauling

He’s calling- it’s, uh- Jesus calling and uh,

We’ve fallen, read, uh- 3 Romans and uh,

I want ya right now- read in 10 Romans

In verse 9, get saved by The Christ

We’re gonna be called children of God then

Gonna leave this world far behind

[And we’re free

(Free falling into Jesus’ calling and uh)

We’re all in

(Free falling, I’m really all in and uh)

Yeah, we’re free

(Prefallen- it’s like we’re prefallen and uh)

We’re all in

(Free falling in uh, Matt. Eleven two eight (11:28)) ]

[Repeat above and fade]

(Recall in Matt. 10- free calling and uh)

Yeah, we’re free!

[alternate line for repeats]

…………………………………………………………………………………………

What If You Believe? (song)

The world is often dubious, brothers and sisters. The world is dubious of the claims of Christ and His followers. There are so many things that are listed as excuses. The world at large finds the tenets of Christianity to be only what a fool believes. Of course, if we're out of our minds, it's for Christ. And He takes the vain and foolish things of the world and confounds the wise. Yes, it may seem like foolishness to believe that God would love us all so much that He became a man and died on the cross for us and rose again in order that we might have forgiveness of sins and eternal life in Heaven instead of the eternal damnation in hell we deserve. But what if you believe what the world calls foolishness? Explore the evidence and truly consider the words of Christ- and you might find it making more and more sense minute by minute as God reveals Himself to you. This song talks about the encounters of Jesus with His first disciples and the miracles He showed to Nathanael and all the others who dared to believe. They left what they knew and believed on Christ. Now what if you believe?

"What If You Believe?"
(parody of "What A Fool Believes" performed by The Doobie Brothers and written by Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 2/11/2017)
(John 1)

He came in somewhere back 2000 years ago
The quintessential Yule log scene
Triune God is incarnate
Creator joins the created- Here comes Jesus Christ

His cousin's so wild-
Jesus' Messianic herald
Saw Him coming near- Johnny called out to say
"Behold, the Lamb of God
Who takes sins away"- Jesus!

They seek the place of the Christ
The Baptist's made ID twice
And disciples move there- (both) following
Son of God asks what they want to know
They're wanting to go

"Well, come and you will see"- They see
What wise men and the prophets all so longed to see
Andrew then leads
His own ol' brother (named Simon)
To Jesus Who calls Peter- fisher of men

Come way back in here- John 1- go!
Where in Galilee Jesus just states His invite
"Come follow Me"- Philip's on board

He went to Nate- "We've found Christ"
Nathanael balked but went to Christ
He surprises him, "Saw you under fig tree"
"Son of God," Nate says- How else would He know?
"You're the King of Israel!"

But what if you believe? You will see
Some wild things- so much powers far greater than these
Angels ascending
Come down like a ladder on Son of Man
With Heaven opened
Now that all you believe- you will see!

But what if you believe? You will see
Some wild things- so much powers far greater than these
Angels ascending
Come down like a ladder on Son of Man
With Heaven opened
Now that all you believe- you will see!

He's Gone (song)

Psalms 126:6 says that those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him. I hope this parody song that's hauling oates will bear some seeds for sowing and see sheaves brought about that I and those who let the seed of God's Word grow in them will all come Home with shouts of joy! :-) And this is definitely a song of joy as, though it starts on a dour note, the sour taste of death sweetens into a triumph of life and life eternal over death. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? Jesus has conquered you forever and He's gone from that tomb! And because He lives, we can live also. :-)

 "He's Gone" (parody of "She's Gone" by Hall & Oates; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 12/11/2016)
(Matthew 26-28, Mark 14-16, Luke 22-24, John 13-21, (particularly John 20), Romans 10:13, Romans 6:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15, 1 Corinthians 6:14)

Everybody's crying- needs consolation
Son of God's dying to save me
But The Christ must bleed, yeah
Receives a drink and He yields His spirit
Now we're scattered sheep, ooh, what will be?

Chorus 1:
He's gone, He's gone
Oh, why?
Oh, why?
I better learn how to face it
He's gone, He's gone
Oh, why?
Oh, why?
I'd say the devil's celebrating
He's gone, He's gone
Oh, why?
What went wrong?

Get up Sunday morning- look in on Saviour
Empty tomb- just linen- Mary's sad
About face and thinking it's the gardener
Woman, why do you weep?
Lord's taken away from me

Chorus 2:
He's gone, He's gone
Oh, why?
Oh, why?
She said, "Sir, where have you laid Him?"
In John, in John
20- Rabboni!
You see, the devil only bruised Him
Praise God! Praise God!
He's alive!
God has won!

Now I'll spend eternity in the Heavenlies
'Cause the cross of the Crucified took my wrongs away
And anybody that will call His Name is saved
Grave- where's your victory? 'Cause Jesus' gone from thee!

Chorus 3:
He's gone! He's gone!
The Christ did rise!
And in our turn, He will raise us!
He's God! He's God!
The Lord Jesus Christ!
One day the devil's gonna say it
Then he's gone
And we're gone
With Christ
In Heaven!

(Repeat Chorus 3)
...................................................................

Hosanna (song)

Note: Here is another entry from the archives, just barely in time for Palm Sunday, depending on what part of the world you're in. :-) And I just thought it might be worth noting- I wrote this song back in 2009 or so and then about 2 years later, I heard ApologetiX release their own take on this same song with the same parody title. (And theirs is a great version too, of course!) But just for the record- I wrote this before I ever heard their version. And if you haven't heard this group- go check them out!

This is a classic early 1980s song. This is a song of praise to Jesus, describing the reaction of one who greeted Him at His triumphal entry on Palm Sunday. God so loved the world that He gave His Son to die for us and rise again! I can never get over God's love for us! It's so amazing! :-) Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise! Enjoy this musical account of the events of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem- how quickly the crowds went from shouts of praise to shouts of "Crucify!" Thankfully, the story continues past there. Like Toto and Dorothy got home at the end of the story, Jesus made it back from the grave so that He could one day take us all Home in the end!

(Note: "bg vocal" just means "background vocal")

"Hosanna" (parody of "Rosanna" by Toto; copyright by Nathan Ludwick circa March 2009)
(Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, John 12, Psalms 84, James 1:17, Luke 6:23)

All I wanna do when I wake up in the morning is feel alive!
Hosanna, Hosanna
I never thought that a God like You could ever care for me- Hosanna

All I wanna do in the middle of the evening- behold Your might!
Hosanna, Hosanna
I didn't know You were looking to be all I could ever need!

Chorus 1:
Not quite a cheer since it meant "Lord, save"- Hosanna, yeah!
Twenty-one Matthew has to say:
Greet You on the way- Greet You Palm Sunday-Hosanna, yeah!
He comes in the Name- Greet You, Son of Dave- Hosanna, yeah!

I can see God's grace still riding through Jerusalem on a donkey's hide
Hosanna, Hosanna
I didn't know that a God like you would take a humble ride- Hosanna!
All I have will praise You- now You'll never ever have to bleed stones dry
Hosanna, Hosanna
11 Mark, 19 in Luke and 12 John- so rad!

(Repeat Chorus 1)

(Instrumental break)

Chorus 2:
Not quite a cheer since it meant "Lord, save"- Hosanna, yeah!
Now read on and I have to say:
Read through all of James (Yeah!)- One, one seven (1:17) says- Hosanna, yeah
He gives all good things (Hoo!)-Give Him all the praise-Hosanna, yeah!
Read Luke 6 today- Twenty-three- it's a Bonanza, yeah!
Leap pews- Jesus saves! Need You all my days- Hosanna, yeah!

........................................................................................

Sweet Ol' King James (1611 mix) (song)

This song felt appropriate to post around April Fool's Day, even though I'm a day off. (April Fool's! Not that being late in posting something counts as much of a joke.) And even though I do treat this song in something of a joking manner, I do want to make clear that I don't mean it with any disrespect. The reason I feel that this kind of song is almost, dare I say, Taylor-made for this holiday, is because it's a parody of a song by a guy called James singing about another James- and my version sings about yet another James- King James. Some Christians feel very strongly about his Bible translation and hold to it to the point of excluding any other translation- to the point of even denouncing other translations as demonic works of some sort because they don't render God's Word exactly as the good ol' Textus Receptus. I just find the argumentation to be ridiculous at times because it's only divisive to the church. Sometimes we have to just agree to disagree agreeably.
 2 Timothy 3:16 says that all of Scripture is God-breathed and it's useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. And I believe all the translations of The Holy Bible are useful for the same purposes as well. In 1 Corinthians 1, the issue is raised about some following Paul, and some Apollos, and some Cephas (i.e. Peter) and still others saying, "I follow Christ." I think that's the important thing to remember- we who follow Christ above all else need to love each other and serve as one united body of believers in Christ, just like Jesus prayed in John 17- and as yet another James wrote about, by the Holy Spirit's guidance. (see James 3)
So whether you dig the New Living Translation or you're down with the New International Version or the North American Standard Bible or the English Standard Version- or you're rocking out with 1611 King James Version- come together as one in Christ and let's seek to love each other above all. After all, Jesus said the most important commands for us- "Thou shalt love The Lord thy God with all thy heart, soul, mind and strength and love thy neighbor as thyself."

"Sweet Ol' King James (1611 mix)" (parody of "Sweet Baby James" by James Taylor; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 1/29/2017)
(Proverbs 30:5-6, Psalms 119:89-90, Psalms 119:96-97, Psalms 119:160, Romans 13:8-14, 1 Corinthians 9:15-23, Psalms 18:30, Matthew 18:15-20, Matthew 5:38-42, Matthew 5:9-15, Matthew 7:1-6, Matthew 7:12, Luke 6:31, John 15:12, James 1:19-20, Hebrews 12:14, Psalms 133, Philippians 1:15-18, James 3, John 17, Mark 9:38-41, Luke 9:49-50, 2 Timothy 3:16, Luke 9:55 (in the footnotes), Romans 14, Romans 12:9-21, 1 Corinthians 3, 1 Corinthians 14:20, Galatians 5, Ephesians 2:18-22, Ephesians 4, 1 Peter 4:8, John 15:8, John 13:34-35, Titus 3:1-11,1 Thessalonians 5:12-28, Colossians 3:11-17, 1 Corinthians 10:23-33, 1 Corinthians 1, 1 Corinthians 8, 1 Corinthians 11:1, 2 Corinthians 10:7)

There was this one Calvinist, in England he reigned
He ordered a Bible- KJV-only folks champion
He spoke in the natural good King's English canon
Writing for commoners, translators arranged
Erasmus dude's write-up assists all the scribes there
52 top men- about 7 years
In 1609, then the whole thing's reviewed there
The chief one of all, Rich Bancroft- overseer
And then came 400 odd years

Chorus 1
Goodbye, all you new translations
Rocking out (with) sweet ol' King James
"Thees", "thous", "verilys" too- vernacular I use
Won't just let you read out of NIV
I'm rocking out 1611 James

Now there're verses you remember because of the flow
Jesus spoke just like in Cambridge sixteen oughts then (i.e. 1600s)
His birth, prayer, baptism- we recount like that James king
It's been filed inside thee- 'cause the Western mores did mold

Philippians 1:18- well, we praise when Lord Christ's preached
They're wrong if using NASB (or) ESV(?)
It's wrong 'cause they leave off verses most others can't find(?)
They're included in footnotes? If it helps you to read-
Olde English works just fine for me

Chorus 2
So, goodbye, all you new translations
What about wisdom?- 3 James
133 in Psalms- united brothers- How cool!
Can't we just please agree to disagree?
Be unified like Jesus prayed

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Christ Extends and Tarries (song)

Whether you're in the dawn of your life or the twilight years, one thing holds true for all of us- we all will die one day. (Unless you get a cool deal like Enoch or Elijah where God just takes straight up home to Heaven without dying. ;-)) And one day, we will all meet God and all face His judgment. And none of us match up to His standards of perfection. Thus, the judgment we all face is one of absolute guilt that deserves absolute punishment- eternity in hell. This is not the outcome The Lord wants for anyone- He loves us all so much He sent Jesus to die for us and rise again so that we would have an escape. Jesus met the standard of perfection for us and when we accept the work He's done on our behalf, God imputes Christ's righteousness to us and sees that in us instead and accepts us as His own children. Of course, it is up to us to grab hold of God's offer of love and forgiveness and trust Him, even as He continues to seek us out. One day He will return and time for that will be up. We don't know when that day will come or when we will die, but we do know that The Lord is patient and long-suffering with us- to Him a day is like 1000 years and 1000 years like a day- He has waited 2000 years since Christ's death and resurrection and He's waiting still. He doesn't want anyone to perish but for all to come to repentance. Come accept His offer today while there's still time.


"Christ Extends and Tarries" (parody of "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 1/8/2017)
(Hebrews 9:27-28, 2 Peter 3:1-10, Isaiah 54:8, Jeremiah 31:3, John 3:16-21, John 6:35-50, John 10:27-30, 2 Corinthians 6:2, Romans 10:9-13, Ezekiel 18:23, Romans 2:4)

Heartbeats pass
Count on it- promise it!
Now to the grave
(Do) you stand with God? Well, I'm afraid you'll fall
But what will you stand there on?
Self-righteous doubt? Suddenly goes away as you bow

Once it's over...

(Chorus 1)
Christ has died and been raised- (He's) waiting for you
2 Peter 3:8- with The Lord a day's like a thousand years
Millennium's a day to The Lord!

Christ waits still
Dutifully calls Jesus
"Call on My Name"
I will not have anyone cast away
Whose handed by Father to Me
All He draws- 44 in John chapter 6

Come- you're chosen

(Repeat Chorus 1)

(Chorus 2)
So call upon God- believe- Christ will find you
Christ has got you eternally- He has loved you with eternal love
His love wants to see no one lost

Come, whosoever
God has chosen

(Repeat Chorus 1 and Chorus 2)

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