Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Jesus Loves the Little Children. Jesus would state, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." There is no doubt that Jesus did love the little children and he loves us big children too. If we will humble ourselves and become like little children, the blessings he has for us are immeasurable.
This is followed by Carl T. Sprague with his 1927 recording of Last Great Round Up.
Afterwards comes Susan Raye with What a Friend We Have in Jesus. This hymn still has an important message for us today. When it seems like there is no one to turn to at any moment of our lives, Jesus is always there. He is always there to listen to us, no matter what. More than that though he deeply cares about every single one of us. A better friend than Jesus could never be found no matter how hard we try. What a friend we have in Jesus indeed. This version of the song comes from Susan's 1973 gospel album, Hymns by Susan Raye.
Then comes Zach Williams and Walker Hayes with Jesus' Fault. This comes from Zach's 2022 album, A Hundred Highways. This album is not to be confused with the Johnny Cash album of the same name.
Next is The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1941 recording of What Wonderful Joy. Though many don't want to give their loves to Jesus because they don't want to give up their sins, the truth is that the joy Jesus can give us is greater than anything we may get out of sinning. This song is about the incredible joy that only Jesus can provide. This recording is very much a duet between two members of the band. Lloyd Perryman and Bob Nolan share the main vocal duties on this song, and both sounds as great as ever.
This is followed by Rhonda Vincent with You Don't Love God If You Don't Love Your Neighbor. This song comes from her 2001 album, The Storm Still Rages.
Afterwards is Vern Gosdin with If Jesus Comes Tomorrow (What Then).
Today's musical selection ends with Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings with The Greatest Cowboy of Them All. This is a song about heroes and all of us have our heroes. While these heroes may be entertainers, writers, political figures, intellectuals and humanitarians, when you put any of them up against Jesus Christ, they simply pale in comparison. This because even someone who is great by human standards is nothing when compared to the glory of God.
Now for a sermon from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Today's movie is Cowboy from Sundown (1940) starring Tex Ritter.
Psalm 146
1 Praise the Lord.
Praise the Lord, my soul.
2 I will praise the Lord all my life;
I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in human beings, who cannot save.
4 When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
5 Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord their God.
6 He is the Maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them—
he remains faithful forever.
7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed
and gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets prisoners free,
8 the Lord gives sight to the blind,
the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down,
the Lord loves the righteous.
9 The Lord watches over the foreigner
and sustains the fatherless and the widow,
but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
10 The Lord reigns forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the Lord.
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy Trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Jesus in the Morning. Jesus should not only be on our minds when we go to church but all the time. He should be there when we wake up in the morning, when we go about doing our daily routine, when we get home each day and when we go to bed at night.
This is followed by Slim Whitman with He Bought My Soul at Calvary. Too often we take what happened at Calvary for granted without truly thinking about what it means. By this I do not only mean the pain and suffering he endured (though that has often become too sanitized in our minds), but also the fact that now we can have a close personal relationship with the God who created the heavens and the Earth.
Then comes Wayne Raney with his 1949 recording of Gathering in the Sky.
Next comes The Carter Family with their 1941 recording of Leaning on the Everlasting Arms. This hymn began with a man named Anthony Showalter. As a fan of gospel music and an elder in a Presbyterian church, he held many "singing schools" at various churches in the south. One day he received two letters from former students who were struggling after their wives had passed. To respond to these letters, Showalter consulted scripture. He came across Deuteronomy 33:27, "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms." After reading this verse lyrics for a song chorus went through his head and he wrote down, "“Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms.” After using this in the letters to his former students he sent this chorus to his friend hymnist, Elisha Hoffman. In the letter he also wrote, “Here is the chorus for a good hymn from Deuteronomy 33:27, but I can’t come up with the verses.” Hoffman then wrote the rest of the lyrics to which Showalter put to music. The hymn was published in 1887.
Next is Waylon Jennings singing Precious Memories on his 1976 album, Are You Ready for The Country. 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. Though Waylon did not record a great many gospel songs, he more than proved himself as an incredible gospel singer. The pure soul, emotion and power in his voice could not be more perfect for gospel music. Personally, Waylon's version of Precious Memories remains my favorite version of this classic hymn.
Afterwards is The Sons of the San Joaquin with Unclouded Day.
After this comes Johnny Cash and Billy Graham with Preacher Said, Jesus Said. Johnny and Billy were great friends and John often appeared at the Billy Graham crusades and played a major role in leading many people to Christ. This song has Johnny singing with inserts of Billy Graham quoting Jesus. The message of this song was not only timely then as well as timely now. It will always be timely. When things are darkest and we don't know who to believe or trust, we know that we can always count on the words of Jesus Christ to be as true as they ever were.
Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1941 recording of What a Wonderful Joy. Words cannot describe just how joyous it will be when we reach heaven. The Bible doesn't describe Heaven in much physical detail, probably because our minds cannot even comprehend how great it will be.
Next comes the C.S. Lewis essay, Must Our Image of God Go?
Next comes a 1942 episode of the Red Ryder radio show.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23
And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:5
Love one another. 1 John 3:23
I can do all this through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalms 46:1
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honor, and life. Proverbs 22:4
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7
They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Psalm 112:7
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing Take My Hand, Precious Lord. This song was written by Thomas A. Dorsey after the passing of his wife and newborn son in 1932. Though Dorsey had given his life to the Lord and was moving away from his career as a blues singer instead writing gospel songs and even pastoring churches. Still after the death of his beloved wife and child, he began to question his faith. Instead of giving up his faith he turned to prayer. He prayed that God would lead him through all the troubles of life. He put his prayer to music (George Allen's Maitland) and this turned out to be one of his most popular songs.
This is followed by Del Reeves with Learning to Lean. This song was written in 1976 by John Stallings, an evangelical pastor, who also wrote southern gospel songs. No matter how long we have been walking with the Lord, all of us are still learning how to lean. Though we may get better all the time at learning to lean on the promises of God, there is always room for improvement and as we continue our walk with the Lord and go further along the process of sanctification, we shall always be becoming more and more like Jesus. Because of this our faith should never stay still or remain stagnant.
Now for The Statler Brothers with Things God Gave Me. It is too often that us Christians take for granted all the blessings God has poured into our lives. Many of them are just things that we simply accept and don't think about. However God gave us each one to bless us and to show us just how much he loves us.
Next comes The Monroe Brothers with their 1936 recording of Drifting Too Far from the Shore.
Then comes Bob Dylan with Covent Woman. This song comes from his 1980 Christian album, Saved.
Now for the Sons of the San Joaquin with It is Well. 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 Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings with The Greatest Cowboy of Them All.
Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1948 recording of The Old Rugged Cross. he 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.
Now for a message from the Reverend Billy Graham.
Now for the next chapter in Gene Autry's movie serial, The Phantom Empire (1935).
The Exhibitor, 1950
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
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Acts 16:30-33
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:16-18
A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed. Proverbs 15:1
Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment. Ecclesiastes 11:9
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
While there is no mistaking this for a great movie, or even that good of a movie, there is no doubt that this is exactly the film, that those who see it want to watch.
Before this movie was announced, I don't think anyone was excepting Elizeth Banks' next feature film to be this (it is not quite Pitch Perfect 2 (2015) or Charlie's Angels (2019)). This is inspired by a true story about a bear getting ahold of a lot of cocaine and ingesting it (country music legend Waylon Jennings may at one time owned the bear). That is where the similarities between the real story and this movie end. In real life, the bear died from an overdose (I can't believe I just typed that sentence) and in this film she goes on a very violent killing spree.
The best thing about this movie is definitely its sense of humor. I actually laughed quite a bit watching this movie. It knows how it has a premise that no one can really take seriously. Because of this, the movie doesn't take itself seriously either. Because of this the film is just as much of a comedy as a suspense or horror movie. The humor is just as crazy as the premise and is often times of a very dark variety. While this type of humor may not appeal to everybody, it is quite funny. Just as much humor comes from the interactions between the human characters as it does with watching a bear snorting cocaine. Because of this there is even quite a bit of fun to be had in the scenes that don't feature the bear and the comedy only gets better when the bear is on screen.
There are a lot of characters in this film and we follow too many for a movie with this short of a runtime (95 minutes). Because of this the characters can come off as hit or miss. The kids and the mom are quite likable. While there is not much depth to any of them, there is just enough for us to want all three to make it out safely. The main human villain is also (while one note) very easy to hate to the point, where he is quite a bit of fun. Unfortunately, the rest of the human characters are all bland and not as entertaining or likable as the should be.
The suspense scenes with the bear fall a little flat for me. While they are extremely violent and there is a bit of fun to the over-the-top gore, these scenes rely only on gore and some jump scares (that don't work at all). Because of this there is never that feeling of suspense or dread about when the bear is going to show up or who he might kill next. There are a few scenes where you can tell the filmmakers are trying to create a bit of this type of suspense but it doesn't quite work. This could have made the movie much more fun. The film also has a lot of awkward dialogue that simply doesn't work.
I don't think of this as a great movie, or even that good of a movie, but I still had a fun time watching it and I am sure many of you will too.
Hello my friends and Merry Christmas. It is time for a special Christmas service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with the medley of What Child Is This? and Sweet Little Jesus Boy. This medley comes from the duo's 1967 Christmas album, Christmas is Always.
This is followed by one of my Christmas favorites, Waylon Jennings' version of Away in a Manger. Waylon's voice fits this hymn so perfectly and there is no other version of this song that quite matches the power of this one. Away in a Manger has also been called Luther’s Cradle Hymn. The reason for this is that it was once believed to be written for Martin Luther, who would have sung it to his children. This proved to be false. It was in fact written for a collection that was meant to celebrate Luther's 400th anniversary. Some think that this rumor was started to help sell the song. It is unknow who actually wrote this hymn.
Gene Autry is not only one of the most prized singers for those of us who love cowboy music, but he is also the artist, who helped popularize three of the most popular Christmas songs, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman and Here Comes Santa Claus (the latter of which, Gene co-wrote). As a special treat this Cowboy Church post includes Gene's version of all three of these songs.
Next is Emmylou Harris singing Light of the Stable. Emmylou recorded this song in 1975. She would later state "Light of the Stable is one of my favorite tracks we ever cut. It was the jelling of the original recording group, the combination of Brain's [Brain Ahern] production and how incredibly creative those guys were was perfect. There is almost more space on the track then there are notes and I always loved that." The song would become the title track of her 1979 Christmas album, which I personally consider one of my favorite Christmas albums.
Now for Tennessee Ernie Ford singing Joy to the World. I think in many ways when we say that Christmas is a joyous time, we too often don't fully comprehend just how joyous it is. We are not just simply spending time with family or giving and receiving gifts. We are celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The one who would die for our sins and who deeply loves us. even when we feel no one else does. There is no greater joy in the world than to know Jesus Christ and to feel his presence with us. Joy to the world indeed. Let us all rejoice together as we listen to Cousin Ernie sing this classic Christmas hymn and let us pay close attention to the lyrics.
After this is The Sons of the Pioneers with Christmas on the Plains.
Then comes The Statler Brothers with Who Do You Think. I hope that this Christmas all of you will believe such a thing.
Now for one of my favorite modern-day singers, Anne Wilson with her song Kentucky Fried Christmas. Even if like me you never lived in Kentucky this is an easy song to relate to as it talks in depth about the Christmas traditions that we hold dear. Still this song acknowledges that Christmas is first and foremost about Jesus Christ.
Today's musical selection ends with Johnny Cash singing Hark the Herald Angels Sing.
Rather than just a movie trailer today, since it is Christmas I am sharing a whole movie. Enjoy a delightful Christmas themed western, Trail of Robin Hood (1950) directed by the always wonderful William Whitney and starring the one and only King of the Cowboys, Roy Rogers.
Now for a Christmas message from the Reverend Billy Graham.
Luke 1:26-2:40
In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!"
Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. Don't be frightened, Mary," the angel told her, "for God has decided to bless you! You will become pregnant and have a son, and you are to name him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!"
Mary asked the angel, "But how can I have a baby? I am a virgin."
The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby born to you will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she's already in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God."
Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant, and I am willing to accept whatever he wants. May everything you have said come true." And then the angel left.
A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. At the sound of Mary's greeting, Elizabeth's child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, "You are blessed by God above all other women, and your child is blessed. What an honor this is, that the mother of my Lord should visit me! When you came in and greeted me, my baby jumped for joy the instant I heard your voice! You are blessed, because you believed that the Lord would do what he said."
Mary responded,
"Oh, how I praise the Lord.
How I rejoice in God my Savior!
For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,
And now generation after generation
Will call me blessed.
For he, the Mighty One, is holy,
And he has done great things for me.
His mercy goes on from generation to generation,
To all who fear him.
His mighty arm does tremendous things!
How he scatters the proud and haughty ones!
He has taken princes from their thrones
And exalted the lowly.
He has satisfied the hungry with good things
And sent the rich away with empty hands.
And how he has helped his servant Israel!
He has not forgotten his promise to be merciful.
For he promised our ancestors -- Abraham and his children --
To be merciful to them forever."
Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home.
At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiance, who was obviously pregnant by this time.
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the village inn.
The Shepherds and Angels
That night some shepherds were in the fields outside the village, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terribly frightened, but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news of great joy for everyone! The Savior -- yes, the Messiah, the Lord -- has been born tonight in Bethlehem, the city of David! And this is how you will recognize him: You will find a baby lying in a manger, wrapped snugly in strips of cloth!"
Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others -- the armies of heaven -- praising God:
"Glory to God in the highest heaven,
And peace on earth to all whom God favors."
When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Come on, let's go to Bethlehem!" Let's see this wonderful thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
They ran to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. Then the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished, but Mary quietly treasured these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their fields and flocks, glorifying and praising God for what the angels had told them, and because they had seen the child, just as the angel had said.
Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived.
Then it was time for the purification offering, as required by the law of Moses after the birth of a child; so his parents took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. The law of the Lord says, "If a woman's first child is a boy, he must be dedicated to the Lord." So they offered a sacrifice according to what was required in the law of the Lord -- "either a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons."
Now there was a man named Simeon who lived in Jerusalem. He was a righteous man and very devout. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he eagerly expected the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,
"Lord, now I can die in peace!
As you promised me,
I have seen the Savior
You have given to all people.
He is a light to reveal God to the nations,
And he is the glory of your people Israel!"
Joseph and Mary were amazed at what was being said about Jesus. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, "This child will be rejected by many in Israel, and it will be their undoing. But he will be the greatest joy to many others. Thus, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul."
Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, and was very old. She was a widow, for her husband had died when they had been married only seven years. She was now eighty-four years old. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. She came along just as Simeon was talking with Mary and Joseph, and she began praising God. She talked about Jesus to everyone who had been waiting for the promised King to come and deliver Jerusalem.
When Jesus' parents had fulfilled all the requirements of the law of the Lord, they returned home to Nazareth in Galilee. There the child grew up healthy and strong. He was filled with wisdom beyond his years, and God placed his special favor upon him.
Thanks for joining me and I hope that all of you have a very merry Christmas and feel the presence of Jesus Christ our Lord with you not only this Christmas but for the rest of your life. God bless you all and Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Star of Hope. This song comes from their 1967 Christmas album, Christmas is Always.
Next comes Johnny Cash with his wonderful version of What Child is This. I always find it incredible that the one and only son of God would leave heaven to come to Earth as a human. He never had to do this. He never had to experience pain, hunger, temptation and weariness. He never had to go through the intense torture of the cross but still, he did because he loves us that much. If we were to be honest how many of us would have done the same thing in his place. If we were to be honest, none of us would have.
Now for 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 Gene Autry with his 1959 recording of Santa's Coming in a Whirlybird. Other than Bing Crosby, Gene Autry is one of the singers most associated with Christmas time. His recordings of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Here Comes Santa Claus (which he co-wrote) and Frosty the Snowman helped bring those songs to prominence and make them the Christmas classics they are today. This silly little song may not be as well-known as those others, but it is still a lot of fun.
Afterwards is Cowboy Copas with his 1947 recording of Jingle Bells. This recording was the B-side to Cowboy Copas' version of Irving Berlin's White Christmas.
Now for Charlie Rich 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.
Then comes The Chuck Wagon Gang with their 1936 recording of A Beautiful Life.
Afterwards is Elvis Presley with O Little Town of Bethlehem. The lyrics to this hymn were written by Phillips Brooks in 1865. He wrote the words this hymn after taking a group of Sunday school children on a pilgrimage to Bethlehem. The music was written by Louis H. Redner, the church organist. There was originally another verse to this hymn, "Where children pure and happy pray to the blessed Child. Where misery cries out to thee, son of the undefiled; where charity stands watching and faith holds wide the door, the dark night wakes, the glory breaks, and Christmas comes once more." However, Redner objected to the words "son of the undefiled." Brooks briefly changed the line to "son of mother mild" before dropping the verse all together. This hymn appeared on a small leaflet in 1868 and in The Sunday School Hymnal in 1871.This version of the hymn comes from Elvis' 1957 album, Elvis' Christmas Album. This album met with controversy upon its release for the rock and roll versions it had of classic Christmas songs and the contemporary rock and roll Christmas music. This was considered to be disrespectful. However, this song is performed in a rather traditional manner. It is also simply a lovely version of this classic hymn.
Then comes Anne Wilson and Josh Turner with an original song released earlier this year called The Manger.
Today's musical selection ends with Waylon Jennings singing O Come All Ye Faithful. It is unknown who wrote this hymn but it first appeared in a 1751 collection of hymns by John Francis Wade. Some believe that the hymn was actually written by Wade but there is no definitive proof for this.
Now for C.S. Lewis with his essay, What Christmas Means to Me.
Today's movie trailer is for the Roy Rogers film, Bells of Coronado (1950). This is a fast paced and fun western that shows Roy to his best advantage. Roy works here with his frequent co-stars, wife Dale Evans, horse Trigger and sidekick Pat Brady (who not only appeared with him and movies but was a regular on his TV show). Also in this film are Foy Willing and the Riders of the Purple Sage, a popular country music group at that time. They appeared in quite a few western movies for Republic Pictures around this time including quite a few with Roy Rogers. The movie was made in Trucolor, a color process used by Republic Pictures that was cheaper than Technicolor but was still quite pleasing. The director of this film was William Whitney, who directed many of the Roy Rogers films of this time. Before working with Roy Rogers, William Whitney had been one of the best directors of movie serials and even directed the beloved Adventures of Captain Marvel (1941), often considered one of the greatest movie serials. This made him very well versed in the type of quick action that these films were known for as well as the knowledge of how to make a good movie on a lower budget. His movies with Roy Rogers were some of the most atmospheric and memorable films he made. These movies also showed Roy moving from his earlier more elaborate outfits to more naturalistic clothes and spent quite a bit of time with Roy's animal co-stars. William Whitney remains one of the favorite directors for acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino, who has shown the ability to talk in depth about William Whitney.
Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Matthew 7:21
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18
Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 3:19
Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. James 5:13 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9
I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. Luke 15:7
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 12:2
Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you. Genesis 28:15
And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness. Gensis 15:6
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. Josuha 1:9
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Gene Autry singing Somebody Bigger Than You and I in a clip from the feature film, The Old West (1952). This is followed by The Louvin Brothers singing If We Forget God. This song reminds us that God and the bible should not ever leave our lives and the way we live them. The bible is not something that should be viewed as belonging to past time and is no longer relevant today. The bible is just as important and relevant today as it ever was, because God is the same yesterday, today and forever. What he has declared as truth back when the bible was written he still declares as truth today and if we don't take heed of the word of God than we allow the devil to rule this world and sin to run rampant. We as believers are meant to be a light in this world of darkness, not as part of the darkness of this world. Next is Hank Williams singing Wealth Won't Save Your Soul. This song reminds us that nothing can save our soul, except for our lord and savoir Jesus Christ and that the things of this world are but temporary and we should keep our mind on eternal things instead of on gaining the fleeting possessions of this world. This is followed by the Charlie Daniels Band with a bluegrass version of the gospel classic Are You Washed in the Blood. This recording comes from the 2003 album How Sweet the Sound: 25 Favorite Hymns and Gospel Greats. Afterward is The Blue Sky Boys with their 1936 recording of Didn't They Crucify My Lord. Listening to this song should remind us that even when you sin and do evil, Jesus doesn't stop loving us and wanting us for his friends. Reno and Smiley then join in with I'm Using My Bible as a Roadmap. Following is Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings with a song John wrote himself, The Greatest Cowboy of Them All. Up next is the Sons of the Pioneers with their 1948 recording of Rounded Up in Glory. Today's musical selection ends with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing The Love of God.
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. Proverbs 3:13
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22
Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy. Proverbs 12:20
When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan. Proverbs 29:2
Then Jesus gave the following illustration: “Can one blind person lead another? Won’t they both fall into a ditch? Luke 6:39
Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts. Proverbs 4:23
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7
Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 1 Chronicles 16:11
Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. James 5:13
But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you Matthew 5:44
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Colossians 4:2
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Thanks for joining me come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello again my friends and welcome to another installment of Cowboy Church.
We begin or musical selection off with an original song from The Sons of the Pioneers called The Sea Walker. This song was written by one of the group's founding members Tim Spencer and the group recorded it in 1947. The next song is Johnny Cash's Man in White. This song is told from the perceptive from the Apostle Paul. Like how Paul had a huge influence on John (and on me as well). John would even write a Christian book about Paul which was also called Man in White. Next comes a rare often unheard of song. This song is called My God and I and performed by Waylon Jennings and Buck Wilkin (of Ronny & the Daytonas, and the writer of this song). Next comes Charley Pride performing Time Out For Jesus from his 1971 gospel album Did You Think to Pray. Next comes The Statler Brothers performing the Gospel classic When the Roll is Called Up Yonder. Next is Gene Autry performing God's Little Candles in a clip from the feature film, Pack Train (1953). Last but not least is Roy Rogers and Dale Evans performing the classic gospel song, How Great Thou Art from their 1962 album The Bible Tells Me So.
Now enjoy a silent short western starring the one and only Broncho Billy Anderson, Broncho Billy and the Greaser.
“Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.” Daniel 12:13“His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” Matthew 25:21“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 "“For You have been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; for the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.” Isaiah 25:4
So Happy Trails to you until we meet again and god bless.
Hello my friends and welcome back to cowboy church.
We begin our musical selection off with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans performing It is No Secret What God Can Do from their 1962 gospel album The Bible Tells Me So. Next Gene Autry performs Music by The Angels from his feature film, The Old West (1952). Next is The Carter Family's 1934 recording of Gospel Ship. I Dreamed of the Great Judgment Morning is said to be Hank William's longest recorded song. This song actually dated back to 1894 and was written by Rev. Bertram Shadduck and Leander Lycurgus Pickett. Roy Acuff also recorded this song, but did shorter version that cut out many of the lyrics. This recording is from 1951 off of the Mother Best radio show. Next are the Sons of the Pioneers' 1937 recording of Lead Me Gently Home Father. At this time Roy Rogers was still a member of the Sons of the Pioneers before his famous solo career. Next is Waylon Jennings performing a song he wrote himself, I Do Believe. This song was originally from the 1995 Highwaymen (Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings) album, The Road Goes on Forever. On that album as well as the songs they did together each member did his own solo song. Though the songs they had performed together where written by other these solo songs were written by the one who performed it. We end with Trace Adkins performing the gospel classic Wayfaring Stranger from his 1997 album Big Time.
Here is a 1949 article from Photoplay magazine about popular movie western stars.
The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe. (Proverbs 18:10)Now we see things imperfectly as in a cloudy mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. (1 Corinthians 13:12)Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Isiah 64:8Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
