Cowboy Church #236

 Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church. 

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Sweet Hour of Prayer.  This hymn was written by William Walford. Walford was a wood craver who had little to no formal education. However what he did have was a very close relationship with God. Those who knew him said that he knew the bible by heart and this man was even asked to share sermons at his church. One day around 1845 Pastor Thomas Salmon visited William Walford. Walford asked Salmon to write down a poem he had in his head. Salmon was so amazed by this poem that he right away sought to get it published. After Walford's death, William Bradbury wrote music for this poem and the hymn as we know it first appeared in the 1859 hymnal, Church Melodies. Bradbury had also composed music for such hymns as Just as I Am and He Leadeth Me. 

This is followed by Carrie Underwood with Because He Lives.  Though this song in many was feels like an old hymn it is actually much more recent than you might think. The song was written by Gloria and William J. Gaither and won an award for being the Gospel Song of the Year for 1974. In an interview the couple stated how this song came to be, “‘Because he lives’ was written in the midst of social upheaval, threats of war, and betrayals of national and personal trust. It was into this world at such a time that we were bringing our third little baby. Assassinations, drug traffic, and war monopolized the headlines. It was in the midst of this kind of uncertainty that the assurance of the Lordship of the risen Christ blew across our troubled minds like a cooling breeze in the parched desert. Holding our tiny son in our arms we were able to write: How sweet to hold our newborn baby, And feel the pride, and joy he gives; But greater still the calm assurance, this child can face uncertain day because He lives.’”

Afterwards is The Chuck Wagon Gang with their 1941 recording of O Rock of Ages, Hide Thou Me.

Next is Leroy Van Dyke with Just as I Am. Despite being written in 1835, this song is known by many today, because of it being used often in Billy Graham's Crusades. Nearly 100 years later in 1934, Billy will dedicate his life to the Lord at one of Mordecai Ham's revival meetings and this song was played during the alter call. With this it should come as no surprise that it was a favorite of the great evangelist and that he would use it in his own alter calls.  

Then comes Marty Stuart (with his mom Hilda Stuart) with the old Carter Family song, The Old Gospel Ship. It is important to remember that this life is not the end and as Christians, we should all know that one day we will take a trip on that old gospel ship. 

Next is Johnny Cash with I'm Gonna Try to Be That Way. While this song's message may seem simple, it is one we should all try to live. When we read or hear about what Jesus did during his time on this Earth, our reaction should be to try to do as close to what he did as we possibly can. 

Now for Charley Pride with Wings of a Dove.  This song was written by Bob Ferguson in 1958. However, most music fans would first hear the song when Ferlin Husky recorded it in 1960. That version of the song was a major hit staying number one on the country charts for 10 weeks straight. Naturally after this many more country singers (as well as some singers from other genres) would record this song, including Charley here. This version of the song comes from Charley's 1968 album, Make Mine Country. 

Then comes Bob Dylan with Do Right to Me Baby (Do Unto Others). This song comes from Bob's 1979 album, Slow Train Coming. This was his first album of Christian songs after having converted to Christianity. 

Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of Leaning on the Everlasting Arms. 

Now for Billy Graham giving a message on Johnny Cash's TV show.

Now for a 1938 episode of The Lone Ranger radio show. 

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:3-4

Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them. Psalms 126:2

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 

Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. Proverbs 16:24

Whoever gives thought to the word will discover good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. Proverbs 16:20

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 2:12

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35

For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. Deuteronomy 30:16

Thanks very much for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again. 

Cowboy Church #211

 Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing In the Sweet By and By. This song came about because of a friendship between composer, Joseph Webster and poet, Dr. Sanford Fillmore Bennett. One day Webster was depressed, and Dr. Bennett recognized this. Dr. Bennett asked his friend what was wrong. Webster replied, "Oh nothing. Everything will be alright by and by." These words brought up an idea in Bennett and he wrote down three verses and a chorus to this song as soon as he could. He handed it to his friend saying, “Here is your prescription, Joe.” Webster loved the lyrics and wrote music for them in practically no time at all. Dr. Bennett later said, “It was not over thirty minutes from the time I took my pen to write the words before two friends with Webster and myself were singing the hymn.” The hymn was first published in 1868 and went on to great fame since.

This is followed by The Statler Brothers with Oh Happy Day. This hymn was written by Philip Doddridge, a non-conformist minister from England in the 18th century. That means that he rejected the church of England. His original title for this hymn was Rejoicing in our Covenant. Engagement with God. While I think it is obvious why this is not the title for the song today, it does very much show what was intended with this song. The hymn was written in 1775, however it rose to the incredible popularity it knows today when The Edwin Hawkins Singers recorded the song with the arrangement we know today in 1967. After that recording it become a gospel standard recorded by pretty much anyone who recorded gospel music. 

Now for Ralph Stanley with Are You Washed in the Blood. 

Then comes The Blue Sky Boys with their 1936 recording of Take Up Thy Cross. When Jesus called the 12 he asked them to leave everything behind them and follow him. This is still exactly what we should do today. While this may not mean for us to leave behind our jobs, our money and our homes, we still need to leave behind our anger, our sin, our anxieties, our fears and our old way of living. God wishes to make us into a new creation. This does not mean we will lose what makes us unique or our interests (unless these interests are sinful and against God's word), however it does mean that we will be living in a new way and that that way will be for God.   

It is hard to believe that a song like The Man Comes Around was so late in Johnny Cash's career. Most of the time singer/songwriters don't release and certainly don't write their best music in their sixth decade, but as all music fans know Johnny was one of the rare artists with such a long career, who left this world at the top of his game musically.  At this time John was on fire for the lord. No longer was he the wild crazy man he had been in the 1950's and 60's, instead by this time he had become a true man of God, and wanted to do all he could for the lord before he passed away. He knew he had wasted too much of his life being controlled by sin and finally wanted to be a servant to God instead of to his own fleshly desires. At this time he was also seeing a musically resurgence, where he was more popular than ever and young audiences were embracing his new music just as much as they did any younger artist of their generation. What he wanted to do was to create a modern day gospel song that would speak directly to this younger audience and The Man Comes Around more than fit that bill. Because this song was so near and dear to him he spent more time writing it than any other song he had composed. In his book, Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon, Pastor Greg Laurie wrote "Personally I think it is the strongest song Johnny ever wrote. It is both biblical and personal, powerful and poetic."

Now it is time for Charley Pride with This Highway Leads to Glory. This song comes from Charley's 1971 gospel album, Did You Think to Pray. 

Then comes Anne Wilson with Devil. This song comes from her 2022 debut album, My Jesus. Anne stands as one of my favorite modern-day singers. 

Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1948 recording of The Old Rugged Cross. The song itself dates back to 1913 and was written by evangelist, George Bennard. Actually the first verse was written in 1912. It was written while Bennard was a part of a series of revival meetings in Albion, Michigan. He was worried about the complete disregard for the gospel around him and wrote this verse as a repose. Of writing it Bennard said, "I seemed to have a vision ... I saw the Christ and the cross inseparable." The song wouldn't be completed for several months, when he was leading meetings at a local church in Pokagan, Michigan. He played it for Rev. Leroy (the sponsoring pastor) and his wife, Ruby Bostwick, both of whom found themselves moved to tears. It was then incorporated into a service at that church on June 7, 1913. The song has the same effect today as it must have back then.

Now for a sermon by S.M. Lockridge. 

Now for the 4th Chapter of Gene Autry's movie serial, The Phantom Empire (1935).

The Film Daily, 1949

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever. Psalm 111:10

The fear of the Lord leads to life, so that one may sleep satisfied, untouched by evil. Proverbs 19:23

When Abram was ninety-nine years old the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless.”  Genesis 17:1

Sing to the Lord; praise the Lord! For He has delivered the life of the needy from the hand of evildoers.  Jeremiah 20:13

And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:32

And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Isaiah 58:11

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. John 3:16-18

Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.

Cowboy Church #197

 Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church. 

With Christmas not being too far off, I am going to start incorporating Christmas music into these posts. First up is a favorite for me Roy Rogers singing Silent Night. This recording comes from 1940 and it is part of a session he did with The Jimmy Walley Trio where they recorded a few Christmas songs together. 

Next comes Charley Pride with They Stood in Silent Prayer. This version of the song comes from Charley's 1970 Christmas album, Christmas in my Hometown.

Now for Tennessee Ernie Ford with It is Well (With My Soul). Though this is a hymn of hope and peace it was written in a time of great sadness. The song was written by Horatio G. Spafford in 1873. He had planned a European trip for himself, his wife and four daughters, however because of his work he was unable to go, and he let his family go without him and after he finished his work, he would meet them there. However, the ship was hit and quickly sank. Though his wife was saved all four of his daughters had gone down with the ship. Amazingly he wrote this hymn when approaching an area near where his daughters had sunk. 

Afterwards comes Willie Nelson and his sister Bobbie Nelson (on piano) with Are You Washed in the Blood. This hymn was written by Elisha Albright Hoffman (Leaning on the Everlasting Arms, Glory to His Name) in 1878. It first appeared in his book, Spiritual Songs for Gospel Meetings and the Sunday School. Yet it was strangely dropped from later versions of this book. This version of this classic hymn comes from Willie and Bobbie's 1996 gospel album Just as I Am. This album consisted of hymns and gospel songs that the two have known and held dear to them since they were small kids. 

Then comes The Carter Family with their 1932 recording of Church in the Wildwood. This hymn was written in 1857 by a music teacher named William S Pitts. On a stagecoach ride to meet his fiancé, he stopped in Bradford, Iowa. While there he took a long nature walk. Seeing an especially beautiful valley near Cedar River, he began to picture a church building here. The idea became engrained into his mind and even after he was back home in Wisconsin, he still couldn't stop thinking about it.  He later stated that only after he had written this hymn, was he at peace with himself. In 1962 the songwriter and his now wife, had visited the spot and found a church right there, even the same color he mentioned in the song.  

Now for Anne Wilson with O Holy Night. This hymn was written in 1847. The lyricist for the song was Placide Cappeau. Cappeau was a poet who rarely wrote about Christian subjects, however the local priest asked him to write a poem for Christmas mass. He didn't know what to write so he looked at the story of Jesus' birth in the book of Luke and tried to place himself there. He then asked his friend Adolphe Charles Adams (who had composed over 80 operas) to write some music. This hymn would gain controversy in France, when the church learned of its writers. Cappeau had left the church and joined the socialist party. Adams was not Christian, but rather Jewish. The idea that neither of the writers of a Christian hymn were in fact Christian, upset many church leaders. These church leaders denounced the song and deemed it not fit to sing in a church. Yet despite this the hymn was one of the most popular Christmas songs in France at the time. 

Gene Autry continues the musical selection with his 1956 recording of Everyone's a Child at Christmas. This song was written by Johnny Marks, who also wrote Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, a song that Gene would help turn into a Christmas classic. 

As today's musical selection ends, The Sons of the Pioneers ask the theological question, Will There be Sagebrush in Heaven in a classic 1947 recording. 

Today's movie trailer for Hop-Along Cassidy (1935). This is the first of 66 films in which William Boyd, would play the famous cowboy character. The last of these films would be Strange Gamble (1948). To say this movie series became a major success is a huge understatement. Hop-Along Cassidy movies would become a sensation, capturing the hearts and imaginations of all red-blooded American boys. Though the character had existed since 1904 as the star of a series of books written by Clarence E. Mulford, from this point on the character would be associated mainly with William Boyd. As if playing the character in 66 movies wasn't enough Boyd also played the character in a radio show that ran from 1948 to 1952 and a TV series which ran from 1949 to 1952. Boyd's version of the character owed little to the book character. Boyd's version was much more clean living and a role model for young kids. Few of these movies, radio episodes and TV episodes borrowed anything from the books for story material. 

If you have a hard time reading the following page, click on it and use your touch screen to zoom in. 

The International Photographer, 1937

Now for a sermon from S.M. Lockridge. 

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people! Selah Psalm 3:8

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. 1 Peter 1:13

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Galatians 6:8

But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." Isaiah 43:1-2

Joshua said to them, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous. This is what the LORD will do to all the enemies you are going to fight.” Joshua 10:25

Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again. 

Cowboy Church #117

 Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church. 

Today's musical selection begins with Charley Pride singing In Jesus' Name I Pray. This song comes from his 1976 album, Sunday Morning With Charley Pride (his second all gospel album). Up next is Johnny Cash singing All of God's Children Ain't Free. This song is from the 1965 album, Orange Blossom Special. In his Johnny Cash biography, The Man Called Cash, Steve Turner calls this "Cash's most folk-inspired album." This is no coincidence  as John's heart was drifting heavily towards the current folk scene at this time. He had preformed at the Newport Folk Festival was spending much time with Bob Dylan, was recording songs by current folk songwriters such as Peter La Farge, and was addressing politics and social commentary in his music in a way he did much less often in the 1950's. This album contained three songs written by Bob as well as some more traditional folk music. This song (written by John himself) was a protest song of the type that was popular in the folk work at this time. This is followed by Mel Tillis singing How Great Thou Art. Around 1886 Swedish pastor, Carl Boberg is said to have been caught in a violent thunderstorm. When soon after he saw the sun return and birds singing, he fell to his knees in amazement of God's incredible majesty. He then wrote the words to this song as a poem. Supposedly serval years later he was surprised to hear a congregation singing his poem to an old Swedish folk melody. Its first English translation was in 1925 by E. Gustav Johnson. However this version simply never caught on and has faded into obscurity. In 1927 it received a Russian version by Ivan S. Prokhanoff. This version inspired English missionary Stuart K. Hine, who began writing his own version. When Hine returned back to England in 1939, he brought this song with him and it is this version that we know so well today. The hymn reached a new popularity with Billy Graham's crusades. George Beverly Shea later remembered, "We first sang in the Toronto, Canada, Crusade of 1955. Cliff Barrows and his large volunteer choir assisted in the majestic refrains. Soon after, we used it in the ‘Hour of Decision’ [radio broadcasts] and in American crusades. In the New York meetings of 1957 the choir joined me in singing it ninety-three times!" Next comes Roy Rogers singing Read the Bible and Pray. Though this song's advise may sound obvious, it is still something that even the most devoted Christians need to be remind of sometimes. The more time we spend in God's word and in prayer, the more we become in tune with the things of God. Yet when we skip or overlook these things our mind drifts away from the things of God. It is so easy to fall into this trap (I know I have), but by doing these two simple things we can avoid it and keep our minds set on the things of God. Afterwards is Hank Williams singing The Battle of Armageddon. Hank recorded this song in 1949, but it was not released until after Hank's death. The song was written by Roy Acuff (a legendary country singer in his own right) and Odell McLeod. However the song truly has the feel of a Hank song. Though his best known gospel work is the upbeat and fast paced, I Saw the Light, Hank recorded a lot of songs filled with dark and moody imagery based off the book of Revelation. This is followed by The Monroe Brothers with their 1936 recording of My Savior's Train. This is followed by The Charlie Daniels Band with A Day in the Life, an original song from their 1996 Christian album, Steel Witness. Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1947 recording of The Old Rugged Cross. The song dates back to 1913 and was written by evangelist, George Bennard. Actually the first verse was written in 1912. It was written while Bennard was a part of a series of revival meetings in Albion, Michigan. He was worried about the complete disregard for the gospel around him and wrote this verse as a repose. Of writing it Bennard said, "I seemed to have a vision ... I saw the Christ and the cross inseparable." The song wouldn't be completed for several months, when he was leading meetings at a local church in Pokagan, Michigan. He played it for Rev. Leroy (the sponsoring pastor) and his wife, Ruby Bostwick, both of whom found themselves moved to tears. It was then incorporated into a service at that church on June 7, 1913. The song has the same effect today as it must have back then.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God  not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. John 3:16-18

He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. Acts 16:30-33

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Romans 10:9-10

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.  Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other. “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. Whoever hates me hates my Father as well. If I had not done among them the works no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. As it is, they have seen, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’ “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning. John 15:1-27


Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22

Do everything without grumbling or arguing. Philippians 2:14

And he believed the Lord and He accounted it to him for righteousness. Genesis 15:6

 But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Genesis 50:20

Thanks for joining me come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again. 

Cowboy Church #105

 Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church. 

Today's musical selection begins with The Statler Brothers with Noah Found Grace in the Eyes of the Lord. This is followed by Flatt and Scruggs with a gospel classic, Precious Memories. Though this is a sweet uplifting song, it was based upon a tragedy. In 1922, John Wright lost his five year old son. Wright would later say about this song, “’Precious Memories’ was born in the midnight hours as I bathed by pillow with tears, likewise all my songs came through life’s severest tests.” Though this is a very famous hymn, John Wright only received $36 for writing it. He would remain a janitor that was always struggling to make ends meet for his entire life. The harmonies in this version are absolutely incredible and have to be heard to be believed. 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus was another hymn born out of personal tragedy.  Louisa M. R. Stead was happily married and one day her, her husband and their four year old daughter had a day at the beach, when they heard a scream. They went to see where the scream was coming from and saw a little boy drowning in the sea. Her husband tried to pull the boy out of the water but the boy pulled the husband down with him. Louisa and her daughter Lilly watched helplessly as the two died before their eyes. It is unknown when the song was actually written, but it is known that it was inspired by this tragedy and how God helped pull her through it as she soon went back on the mission field. The song was first published in 1882 a collection of hymns entitled Songs of Triumph. The version of this song used in this post is performed by Alan Jackson. Next comes The Purple Hulls with Whispering Hope. This beautiful hymn comes from the pen of Alice Hawthorne (the pen name for poet Septimus Winner), who is best known for her contributions to children's music with songs like, Where, Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone? and Ten Little Indians. This is followed by Roy Rogers with A Cowboy's Sunday Prayer. This comes from his and Dale Evans' 1959 album, Jesus Loves Me. Afterwards is Johnny Cash singing Spiritual. This recording comes from his 1996 album Unchained. The backing band on this recording and this whole album was Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. In the documentary film, Running Down a Dream, Tom Petty stated that this was one of his favorite albums to make. This is followed by Gene Autry singing Dear Hearts and Gentle People in a clip from his movie, Beyond the Purple Hills (1950). Backing him up here are the Cass County Boys. Next is Charley Pride and Dolly Parton performing God's Coloring Book. Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of Dwelling in Beulah Land. Roy Rogers (than Leonard Slye) sings lead vocals. It would not be long after this that Roy would leave the Sons of the Pioneers for his solo film career. In fact his first starring movie role would only be released only a year after this recording. Dwelling in Beulah Land was written by C. Austin Miles (who also wrote the gospel classic In The Garden) and was first  published in 1911. C. Austin Miles once said, “It is as a writ­er of gos­pel songs I am proud to be known, for in that way I may be of the most use to my Mas­ter, whom I serve will­ing­ly al­though not as ef­fi­cient­ly as is my de­sire.” 

Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes. Psalm 119:135

He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.  Matthew 28:26-27

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense ; he has become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18

Blessed is the one whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. Job 5:17

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and  believe in your heart  that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. Romans 4:20-21

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Colossians 4:2

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:6

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16

But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28

Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Matthew 26:41

Thanks for joining me come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again. 

Movie Review: Country Music - A Film By Ken Burns

Michael's Movie Grade: A-

As every reader of this blog knows, I am a huge country music fan. As such it is no wonder that Ken Burns' recent country music documentary had such an appeal to me. It certainly did not let me down in the least.

This is a very in depth look at the history of country music. However how wide reaching country music is, this film could no cover everything. There were artists I wished could have been discussed much more. For instance The Sons of the Pioneers and Roy Rogers (and Dale Evans receives no mention at all) only got passing mentions and I certainly would love to have heard more about Lynn Anderson, The Statler Brothers, Jim Reeves, Johnny Rodriguez, Tex Ritter, Charley Daniels, George Strait and Tompall Glaser. To cover that much would have been an impossibility, so this becomes little more than nitpicking. There is a lot to learn in this movie even from country music buffs like me. Also it is really nice to see DeFord Bailey get the attention he deserves. As a harmonica player myself DeFord is definitely an influence on me. I also loved that they payed tribute to country music from artists who are not known for country such as Ray Charles, Bob Dylan and The Byrds.

The highlight of this movie is the interviews. We get to see true country music legends discuss country music. It is always a joy to see Kris Kristoffeson, Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Hank Williams JR. (when the film focuses on Hank Williams Sr. the subtitle under Hank Jr literally says "Hank Williams Jr. - Son"), Dwight Yoakam, and Willie Nelson. It was also a very nice surprise to see Merle Haggard and Little Jimmy Dickens, who had passed away recently. Charley Pride always seems like the nicest guy in the world whenever I see him talk. If there is anybody in country music I would like to be friends with, it is Charley Pride. Charley is of course one of the all time great country singers and I wish more people I knew were fans. Marty Stuart shows how he truly is country music's resident historian. Emmylou Harris is a delight and her passion for country music can be felt each time she talks. Dwight and Merle often stole the show. They both would sing the songs as they were talking about them and even singing brief snippets of the songs, you could hear the incredible emotion in their voice fully be reminded of why these two are such great singers. They just have a perfect way with words and a great sense of humor. I love Merle stating that if anyone doesn't like Bob Wills they are under suspicion with him, or Dwight saying that Lovesick Blues is sentimental to its core but also sticks its middle finger up at the world. Hearing Dwight yodel that song is also a highlight, and I want to see him do a full cover of that song.

Plus getting to hear songs by all those previously mentioned plus Jimmie Rogers, The Carter Family, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Lefty Frizzell, Pasty Cline, Gene Autry, Roy Acuff, Buck Owens, Bill Monroe, Townes Van Zandt and more certainly didn't hurt the film at all.

Most of all though this film is a love letter to country music and a lovely heartfelt one at that. I found myself singing along with each song, remembering why I fell in love with the genre. This movie made me fall in love with Country music all over again.

-Michael J. Ruhland  

Cowboy Church #27

Hello again my friends and welcome to another service of Cowboy Church. 

We start our musical selection with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with their 1956 single, Thank You God. This song was written by husband and wife team Jill Jackson-Miller and Sy Miller. The song was released as a little Golden Record with the songwriting team's most famous composition Let There Be Peace on Earth as a B-Side. Next comes one of Roy Acuff's most famous hits, The Great Speckled Bird. Though this song was originally credited as written by Roy himself, Roy would later state that the song was actually written by Reverend Guy Smith. Though this song was recorded in 1936 it would not be released until 1938. A few months prior to this release Roy had performed the song on the Grand Ole Opry to a very positive reaction. This song has been covered by many over the years, but Roy Acuff's version still remains the best. In 1953, singing cowboy Rex Allen had a hit with Crying in the Chapel. This was more than a decade before Elvis Presley had his famous hit with the song. After this comes The Sons of the Pioneers' 1947 recording of The Sea Walker. This song was a Sons' original written by one of the group's founding members, Tim Spencer. Next comes Johnny Cash performing No Need To Worry live in 1971. He is backed by The Carter Family, Carl Perkins, The Statler Brothers and his usual backing band The Tennessee Three. This is a high energy performance that is incredibly fun. This is followed by Charley Pride's 1968 recording of Wings of a Dove. We end with Hank Williams performing his lovely original composition, House of Gold.  Hank recorded this song in either 1948 or 1949, but it was not released until 1954, after his death. Despite this the song has rightfully become a gospel classic.

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:30-31

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his [Jesus'] mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Titus 3:5

Thanks for joining me for another service of Cowboy Church join me next week for more. Happy trails to you until we meet again.



-Michael J. Ruhland

  

Cowboy Church #26

Hello my friends and welcome to another service of Cowboy Church.

We begin our musical selection with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans performing a medley of three gospel songs on the country variety show Hee Haw. The songs in this medley are Old Time Religion, Daddy Sang Bass and Cowboy Camp Meeting. Old Time Religion was an old gospel standard dating back to 1873. Daddy Sang Bass was written by early rock and roll legend Carl Perkins but is best remembered as a hit song for Johnny Cash. Cowboy Camp Meeting was an original song by The Sons of the Pioneers, a group that Roy used to be a member of. This performance comes from the 30th episode of Hee Haw, which aired in 1970. Next comes Hank Williams performing an excellent version of the gospel standard Where He Leads Me on his Mother's Best radio show in 1951. After this comes Dwight Yoakam performing the gospel classic, In the Garden. This video shows one of the reasons I love Dwight so much. Listening to him talk is just as much fun as listening to him sing. He is also not afraid to let his heartfelt and human side be shown. The This video comes from a 1992 TV special tribute to Minnie Pearl. Next comes Johnny Cash and the Carter Family performing a high energy version of  Gospel Boogie on Hee Haw. Following this is The Carter Family's 1934 recording of I'm Working on a Building. Now I am feeling a bit wild while writing this. You know what that means? That's right it's bluegrass time. So enjoy Flatt and Scruggs, performing Crying Holy Unto the Lord. Of course no one could ever or will ever play banjo better than Earl Scruggs and he certainly gets to show off his banjo playing chops here. We end with Charley Pride performing Church In The Wildwood.

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. Isaiah 12:2

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Luke 6:31I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. Lamentations 3:22There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

Thanks for joining me for another round of Cowboy Church. See you again next week. Until then Happy Trails to You Until We Meet Again.


-Michael J. Ruhland

Cowboy Church #16

Hello again my friends and welcome back for another edition of Cowboy Church. 

We start our music off with The Sons of the Pioneers performing Cowboy Camp Meeting in the 1946 Roy Rogers film, Rainbow Over Texas (1946). This catchy upbeat gospel tune was written by the group's own Tim Spencer. Next up comes Gene Autry and Smiley Burnette performing a short comedic song called Uncle Noah's Ark. This version comes from the feature film, Roundup Time in Texas (1937). Smiley Burnette wrote this song and as many of you probably know, he often played Gene's sidekick in these early films. After this the King of Western Swing, Bob Wills No Disappointment in Heaven in a classic 1936 recording. Next comes Charley Pride performing In Jesus Name I Pray from his 1976 album, Sunday Morning With Charley Pride. After this comes a thought provoking song from Willie Nelson's 1971 Yesterday's Wine album, called It's Not For Me to Understand. After this comes a rare, but very fun gospel song sung and written by Johnny Cash called Sanctified. We close our music with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans performing Jesus Loves the Little Children in a lovely 1955 recording. 

Now for a classic episode from TV's The Roy Rogers Show (1951-1957). This episode is called Fishing For Fingerprints and is the second episode of Season 6 (the last season of the show). 




"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." Ephesians 2:8"So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ." Romans 10:17“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9Thanks for joining me see you again next week. Until then Happy Trails to you until we meet again.






-Michael J. Ruhland