So This is Christmas... 2008

Wow. 2008... almost gone. And where did it go so quickly? I couldn't let this year end without one more journal entry. I purposefully went on 'radio silence' during all the election madness of November, and then the Christmas season was upon us (and numerous musicals and gigs, thank God!).

In the midst of all the holiday cheer, there are a select few Christmas tunes that I really enjoy. "Silent Night" and "Do You Hear What I Hear" are a couple of carols that ring my bell. But one song in particular has been rolling through my mind even now.

So this is Christmas
And what have you done
Another year over
And a new one just begun
And so this is Christmas
I hope you have fun
The near and the dear one
The old and the young

John Lennon wrote "Happy Christmas (War is Over)" as his ode to peace and the belief that love could triumph over war, hate, bigotry, and all the other ills that infect and affect mankind. This is not just an idealistic hippie dream of the 60's, but the fervent faith of a man proclaiming his heart-felt faith in peace.

And he was right... almost. In my own life, every attempt to change in my own power usually ended in disaster... or worse! I can't help but be reminded of my friend Martin in Belfast, Northern Ireland. After giving us a tour of that war and hate-torn city, he made a statement that still rings true. "The only thing that will bring peace to Ireland", Martin boldly exclaimed, "is the Love of Jesus".

Amazing! I know he was referring mainly to Belfast and the Irish 'Troubles", but his words are incredibly appropriate. On every hand we have our own 'troubles'; recession, unemployment, bankruptcy, political unrest... and almost in fulfillment of those dire prophesies, we have war, famine, and starvation. Somehow just hoping and wishing for Love and Peace to triumph is not enough.

And it's not. But God made a way through these troubles (notice I didn't say 'out of'). The Love and Blood of Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Check it out for yourself and see if it's not true.

So... this was Christmas and 2008. What have we done? What have 'I" done? In spite of the triumphs and trials of 08, I know that 2009 will bring it's own unique set of challenges, and that Jesus Christ is still the answer to the war that rages in my own life.

I'll leave you with the chorus of what is now my favorite Christmas song...

A very merry Christmas
And a happy New Year
Let's hope it's a good one
Without any fear
War is over over
If you want it
War is over
Now...

Wishing you Love and Peace in 2009... His!!

GV
December 31, 2008
www.project150.com

Breathe... breathe in the air...

Take a deep breath... hold it for a sec.. exhale. Now don't take another breath... hold that for as long as you can stand it. Now... take in the tiniest amount of air imaginable and hold THAT.

That is just a small taste of what my buddy David Gaines has been going through the past year or so. But thank God for medical doctors and the miracle of a double lung transplant. He's out of hospital and doing well back home in North Carolina. David is a life-long friend, and I couldn't imagine life down here without him. But I was convinced that God still had work for Dave to do... and apparently God agreed with me!

As close to home as that close call was, things got a little closer for us recently. My oldest son, Brandon (23) has dealt with asthma since he was a child, but with fewer and fewer issues as he's gotten older. So imagine our shock when Brandon had to hospitalized for a week due to a very severe asthma attack. The doctors never really could find what triggered such a massive attack. Right on the heals of one of my best friends going through issues with lungs... breathing... I was more than a bit apprehensive when Brandon's doctor decided to consult a pulmonologist. All I could think about was David's ordeal... was this the beginning of the same in Brandon?

Thank God for mercy! They finally determined the causes of the attack (a variety of factors) and initiated the proper treatment. Brandon's doing great and we're all resting much easier.

But I find it interesting how the enemy would like nothing more than to steal the breath from our lungs. With no air, there is no life of course... but even the slightest attack on our breath has major consequences. It affects our strength and stamina... it changes the way we live and work... and it silences our voice and the ability to proclaim the grace and mercy of the Father.

I am convinced from scripture that our very breath is from God. Genesis tells where God literally breathed live into man. And the apostle John relates where the resurrected Christ breathes on the disciples, imparting the Holy Spirit. Is it any wonder that the enemy wants to rob us of this God-given gift?

So now I find myself reminded to thank God as I take in a big gulp of O2. And I can't help but think of all the people who don't know Christ and how they really need air...

Waiting on the wind of the Spirit to blow...

GV

Sacred Blues and a "Point of View"

For those of you in the Birmingham area that attended the launch of the Genesis Coffee House series, you might recognize the shadowy figure in this pic... lol. For those of you who missed "Sacred Blues", well... I have a feeling that we'll be doing another such event. We had a packed house, a LOT of fun, and (most importantly), we helped raise several hundred dollars for the "Babies First" charity. Not bad... doesn't really make you blue, does it?

I am excited about this extra bit of news; I'm finally beginning to work on my new CD project! This new record, under the working title of 'Point of View', is going to be a blast to make. I've spent the last few years writing, and I feel like I have some of the best songs I've written. Time will tell, won't it?

So, hang on for the ride. I'm going to attempt to document the work in progress on this blog. Keep an open mind and keep me in prayer!!

More to come...

GV

Sacred Blues!

Hey! Me and some of the P150 guys are playing at this event.
Here's the official word on this cool new concert series. Glad we can help kick it off! Hope to see you there!

GV

Genesis Coffee House series presents “I Have A Hope; An Evening of Sacred Blues”

Leeds, AL, 7:30 pm, June 20th, 2008 – The Genesis Church will kick off its coffeehouse concert series this June with “I HAVE A HOPE; An Evening of Sacred Blues” with Liturgical Autopsy featuring Rick Sutton, 2Blu, The Lucky Stiffs, George and the G-Men and George Vinson’s Project 150.

The coffee shop will be open from doors at 6 PM till 7:15 serving coffee, tea and assorted desserts. Come early and enjoy the company of other blues lovers.

This first event will be a benefit for “Babies First of Birmingham”. The Babies First program provides residential group care for single young mothers and their babies. The reality of life has come too soon for many young women. Babies First provides opportunities for both mother and child, including housing, education, and job opportunities. Go to http://umch.net/locations/birmingham.htm for more information.

For additional information on “I HAVE A HOPE; An Evening of Sacred Blues” contact Rick Sutton or go to www.myspace.com/genesiscoffeehouseseries for updates and links to the artist. You can also download a full size poster of the event there.

The Genesis Church is a new United Methodist congregation located at the River Oaks Golf Course (formally Terry Walker Golf Course) in Leeds, AL. The church website is www.thegenesischurch.org.

Johnny Fever

For 7 years I was the Director of Technical Ministries for the Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, AL. During those years God placed about 25 folks into my ministry there... yes, I'm talking about those wacky, wonderful, and sometimes weird people who were the tech volunteers. Each of them brought passion, dedication, and their own unique set of skills to the task of enhancing our worship services, week in and week out. I miss them terribly!

But even since moving to the Nashville area almost 3 years ago, I still try to keep in regular contact with as many of them as possible. I was saddened to learn this past weekend about the passing of Mark Groenke, probably the one person in our crew that personified all the qualities I described above. Every person on our crew was vital, and I could safely describe each of them as a 'right hand man (or woman)", but Mark would arguably be at the top of that list.

One of the things that made Mark wonderful was his selflessness. So it's no surprise to learn that he had been fighting a battle with MS... I don't think any of us knew that about him, and we were all very close. Just like Mark to keep such a thing to himself! In fact, we all lost touch with him after he moved to Florida a few years ago.

Mark was truly unique. As my main backstage manager, Mark would handle any situation with speed and professionalism... along with a dry wit that would have you rolling on the floor. At the time, he sported shoulder length grey hair and a huge mustache, baring more than a passing resemblance to WKRP's "Dr. Johnny Fever", hence that nickname (one of many, trust me...lol).

I could go on and on about my buddy, but will spare you. Those of you who knew Mark share my grief at his passing, but can rejoice in the fact that we WILL see our buddy again in heaven. If I know Mark, he's rearranging that backstage area right now... and probably has a few angels laughing uncontrollably... lol.

John "Mark" Groenke


GROENKE, JOHN "MARK", 57, joined our Heavenly Father Tuesday, June 10th, 2008. After an 18-week battle (he WON) in the SICU at a local hospital. Preceded in death by his mother, Lois Ann Nelson and his father, John H. Groenke. He lives on through his children and grandchildren. Daughters, Lindsey (Paul) Correia of Hoover, AL, Shelly (Sean) Payne of Vestavia Hills, AL and Tania (Jon) Tate of Gulf Breeze, FL. Grandchildren, Ashton, Tate, Olivia, Miller, Connor, Austin and Ali. Sister Marcia (Ken) Lanier, Stepmother, Joy Groenke and many family and friends. Mark's true passions in life were food; he enjoyed cooking and entertaining, a life long race fan and music lover. He was a father, friend and joker. He will be deeply missed and remembered for touching so many lives. Daddy, may I have this dance? Love, Booka. Visitation will be held Saturday, June 14, 2008 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held Saturday at 3:30 PM at Southern Heritage Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request that those interested contribute donations to the National MS society.

Mark... I miss you, my friend. Get things ready for the band up there, willya??

GV

Empty 71

In all my many travels, I get to play a lot of different kinds of places and events. I mean a LOT! C'mon... I've played American Dixieland to Muslims in the Middle East! lol

I was reminded of a student camp I played a couple of years ago over in the eastern part of Tennessee, for a church denomination known for their 'exuberance' in worship, and for their disdain of 'modern cultural influence'. As many of you know, I am the essence of modern culture (lol), with no better example than my hip/cool hoop earring (properly threaded through my left lobe, as everyone knows is the 'correct' bit of cartilage for straight guys).

Alas, this bit of chrome proved to be a point of contention for the Elders of this group. When I arrived on scene to play the first night of a week-long camp, the band leader (a friend of mine) said that I'd need to remove my ear-wear. This was not an unreasonable request... but I typically don't get this at events designed to reach students. I quietly complied and the night went on (and on and on and on).

The next night came and I arrived a bit early. My band leader buddy once again pulled me aside and explained that he had 'taken some heat' on account of my worldly fashion statement. Apparently the Powers-That-Were observed my earring and wondered... "who is this worldly guitar player? How can he possibly lead our students in worship? He's wearing what? An EARRING? Tool of Satan!! He's obviously NOT a Christian!!"

You can imagine my reaction! When I explained to my friend that I wear a hoop as a sign of being a life-long bond-slave to Christ, he understood and assured me that he had tried to defend me. Despite the fact that I've been a believer since the age of 13 (and an ordained minister since 2004), I was 'weighed in the balance and found wanting'. At least I was allowed to come back and finish the camp... lol (my buddy and his group have since broken ties with this denomination).

On the ride home that night, I immediately thought of the scripture in Matthew where Christ talked about how we shouldn't judge people, unless we want to be judged as well (Matthew 7:1). In this era of 'rock star as human billboard' I thought about showing up the next night with a clever yet enigmatic phrase scrawled on my hand... EMPTY 71.

Get it? MT 7:1? MT? Empty?? I know you get the reference. People who judge are no worse than the Pharisees who would publicly denounce and deride those of lesser spiritual insight. Truly these self-appointed judges are nothing more than empty shells, embracing a form of godliness but denying it's power.

But even though I was wrongly judged, I deemed it hypocrisy on my part to attempt to judge them in however subtle a manner. But that phrase, Empty 71, has stuck with me. From time to time I think about using it, in an effort not to be a judge of others, but as a reminder that I have NO right to judge any one.

So if you see me out playing a gig, and you see Empty 71 written on my hand, rest assured that my heart and head are asking God to forgive me for being so empty and judgmental, and to fill me instead with the Spirit.

Empty 71... I rest my case!!

GV

One Quarter Later... C'est La Vie!!

Hi gang!

I just realized that it's been almost an entire quarter-year since my last posting... for shame! lol As usual, I will plead too much activity... thank God that it's true!

And because of all the things that have transpired since late January, it's a difficult task for me to 'hone in' on just one topic to share. I've traveled all over, from Mississippi to Wisconsin, been down to Birmingham almost weekly, done sessions with gospel & soul legend Roscoe Robinson, played on a Dove award winning kids worship project, been to prison a couple of times (!), and endured personal triumph and tragedy.

But you know... that's life! The French have a wonderful term for it; "c'est la vie". Ttranslated literally as 'this is the life', it has neither a positive or negative association. But being the 'glass half full' guy that I am, I see it as 'this IS the life'! So many people think that being a Christian means no more problems, everything is great, etc. But Christ never promised us this (or a rose garden either). I am firmly convinced that the most effective faith-statement we make in life is how we respond to life, with it's challenges and rewards.

The past 90 days or so have brought me into contact with believers in a variety of settings. Each of these folks are going through 'life' in a big way. Some of these brothers and sisters are in situations that society looks down upon (prison, halfway houses, etc), and are there because of poor choices. Others are living in the prison of their relationships, enduring trials not of their making... walking prisoners in a sense.

But the reason I am so intrigued and impressed by them is the way they are responding to these trials... with the quiet hope and resilient inner joy that only a changed life in Christ can create. I have a song on 'Spheres of Influence' called 'A New Heart' that is based on Psalm 51:10. The Message Bible says it like this:

"God, make a fresh start in me,
shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life."

Even as a Christ-follower, I can have chaos in my life. But what an incredible promise that no matter what we face, God can and will make a fresh start. He can shape my life in the same way that He shaped and molded creation from nothing and into an awe-inspiring work of art.

C'est la vie?? You bet it is!!

GV

"An 'Epic' in the Making"

Everyone loves a good story... I know I do. Early on my parents helped instill in me a love of reading, and from that love I learned pretty quickly how to tell stories (not always just for the entertainment value...lol). I guess it's no surprise that after falling in love with music that I'd eventually try my hand at song writing. It's storytelling set to music after all! Like any skill or talent, my early efforts were almost always terrible, despite what loving (and tone-deaf) parents would say. Even after 30+ years, some songs come more easily than others (and yes, some are still terrible...lol).

But every so often it happens that you find a melody and a turn of phrase that invokes a powerful reaction. The best of these moments occur when Holy Spirit breathes life into our feeble artistic and all-too-human creations. And far too infrequently you 'discover' a song, almost as if The Song was waiting there all along for you to finally unearth it... as if the Spirit led you to the 'dig site.'

I've had that happen a couple of times in my song writing career thus far. These rarities are treasured all the more as I understand that it doesn't usually work this way. And almost without exception one of the qualities of these songs is that they tell a story... a story both uniquely personal yet universal. The best compliment a song writer can receive is to be told that "... you wrote that song just for me."

Which brings us full circle back to The Story. One of my favorite authors is John Eldredge (Wild at Heart, Waking the Dead, the Sacred Romance). A while back he published a short little book called Epic, a wonderful distillation of the themes discussed in Waking the Dead. In less than 100 pages or so he talks about how our best-loved stories are simply mirrors of a greater Story. And that by looking into what makes us love these tales, we can see the finger of God writing on our hearts.

Rather than give you my 'book report' version, go buy this book and check it out for yourself. See if you don't get as excited as I am when you realize that through the arts God is telling The Story of his love for us and his longing for us to be reunited with Him. But better yet, each one of us has a chapter and a role to play in this incredible adventure.

Over the coming months I'll be sharing with you our theme for Project Onefifty this year, one almost directly inspired by the ideas in Epic. Our goals and events haven't changed... we're still doing coffee houses, mission trips, concert events, CD projects and the like. But my prayer is that we'll be telling our story more effectively (and often) and through this telling, The Story will be shared with people all around the world.

I'll leave you with the 'teaser' for this theme:

Rescue•Reveal•Redeem•Restore
God is waiting for you

Sounds 'epic' to me!! Let's go!

GV

New Year's Resolution: Day 15

Happy New Year! Yes, I know it's about 15 days late... but you know me and my blogging schedule... lol! I must say there are some exciting things in store for me and Project Onefifty this year. Please keep us in your prayers... you'll be the first to know just how exciting!

One of my resolutions for this year (besides the usual list... get in better shape, bring world peace, etc.) is to finally read the Bible all the way through. Now, I've read every book, but never sequentially from cover to cover. One of our buddies, drummer Steve Sample has accomplished this feat several times! The fact that Steve became a Christ-follower in his 40's just confirms we can sometime forget just how important and life-changing God's word is.

So, I'm on Day 15... that means I'm close to finishing the book of Genesis. Just a day or so ago, I was reading the story of Joseph, his sale into slavery by his jealous brothers, his rise to favor and subsequent fall from grace into imprisonment. It's significant how God provides his way of escape, but only after waiting for years. That God restores Joseph is incredible; but not only is he restored, he rises to one of the highest places of authority in Egypt and sets the stage for fulfillment of prophesy and the long-term freedom we have in Christ.

A great story and a great truth! And here on Day 15, I find myself in a period of waiting... much like Joseph. No, I'm not in prison or been sold by my brothers (although they probably wanted to sell me a few times when we were growing up!). Since our move to Tennessee a couple of years ago, we've seen God do some great things through P150. We've been in Japan, and Ireland, and even the Middle East. It's humbling to remember how God has used our music and ministry to plant seeds of change in the lives of people all around the world. We've put down great roots here in TN, gathering a new support group and encountering ministry opportunities we'd never dream of doing. But we know we've just scratched the surface of what God has planned.

But even in the midst of activity, we still are waiting for the next step. I am so excited about the new CD project coming. I've just finished the writing stage and have entered pre-production. It's going to be a challenging project, not only for the production team, but I fully believe that lives will be challenged in an amazing way through the truth in these tunes.

One of the new tunes was inspired by our friend Rashel Ross and her victory over cancer, and contains lines in the bridge that really sum all this up for me:

"I will not waver
I will not live here again
I will remember the promise
But waiting is the hardest thing to do...
I wait for you"

I pray that you find patience in your time of waiting. Remember God's promise of love, mercy, and grace...

It's gonna be a great year!!

GV


"I Wait for You" (copyright 2008 Vinsongs Music, ASCAP)