Cowboy Church #269

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing The Lord is Counting on You. This song is directed heavily at the duo's younger fans and is about the importance of Sunday school. This is appropriate because Roy had long been an advocate for Sunday School. In the early 1940's the rules for the Roy Rogers Riders Club included "love god and go to Sunday school regularly." This rule is especially interesting considering that it was before Roy gave his life fully to the Lord. After that of course his support for Sunday school grew even stronger. One time when he and Dale where taking part in a rodeo at Madison Garden, Roy spoke to his audience, "I heard some kid say it is sissy stuff to go to Sunday school. Don't you believe him. Sunday school is for he-men."

This is followed by Dailey and Vincent with Don't You Want to Go to Heaven. 

Afterwards is Porter Wagoner and the Blackwood Brothers Quartet with I'm Going That Way. This comes from their 1968 gospel album, In Gospel Country. 

Next is Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys with Shouting on the Hills of Glory. This comes from the 1973 bluegrass gospel album, Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys Sing Gospel Echoes of the Stanley Brothers. 

 Willie Nelson is of course everybody's favorite hippie-cowboy and up next is a very hippie-cowboy style song, The Troublemaker. This song points out that Jesus didn't simply fit the way many people try to conform him to be in their minds to fit their political and personal views and that hatred of those we don't agree with is something very unchristian. Though this song is in many ways very much of its time, there are ways in which it is still relevant to us today as we remember that Jesus Christ himself was countercultural. 

Next is The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1948 recording of The Touch of God's Hand. This song was written by one of the group's founding members (and one of my favorite songwriters), Bob Nolan.

Then comes Jim and Jessie with It's a Lonesome Road. This comes from their 1968 gospel album, The Lonesome Road. 

Today's musical selection ends with Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash (backed by The Carter Family and The Statler Brothers) with No Need to Worry. This version of the song comes from a televised 1971 concert in Denmark with Johnny Cash, The Carter Family, The Statler Brothers and Carl Perkins. 

Now for the 13th episode of The Lone Ranger TV series. 

The Exhibitor, 1956

Now for a message from the reverend Billy Graham. 

Psalm 118

1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

    his love endures forever.

2 Let Israel say:

    “His love endures forever.”

3 Let the house of Aaron say:

    “His love endures forever.”

4 Let those who fear the Lord say:

    “His love endures forever.”

5 When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord;

    he brought me into a spacious place.

6 The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid.

    What can mere mortals do to me?

7 The Lord is with me; he is my helper.

    I look in triumph on my enemies.

8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord

    than to trust in humans.

9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord

    than to trust in princes.

10 All the nations surrounded me,

    but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

11 They surrounded me on every side,

    but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

12 They swarmed around me like bees,

    but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns;

    in the name of the Lord I cut them down.

13 I was pushed back and about to fall,

    but the Lord helped me.

14 The Lord is my strength and my defense;

    he has become my salvation.

15 Shouts of joy and victory

    resound in the tents of the righteous:

“The Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!

16     The Lord’s right hand is lifted high;

    the Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!”

17 I will not die but live,

    and will proclaim what the Lord has done.

18 The Lord has chastened me severely,

    but he has not given me over to death.

19 Open for me the gates of the righteous;

    I will enter and give thanks to the Lord.

20 This is the gate of the Lord

    through which the righteous may enter.

21 I will give you thanks, for you answered me;

    you have become my salvation.

22 The stone the builders rejected

    has become the cornerstone;

23 the Lord has done this,

    and it is marvelous in our eyes.

24 The Lord has done it this very day;

    let us rejoice today and be glad.

25 Lord, save us!

    Lord, grant us success!

26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

    From the house of the Lord we bless you.

27 The Lord is God,

    and he has made his light shine on us.

With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession

    up to the horns of the altar.

28 You are my God, and I will praise you;

    you are my God, and I will exalt you.

29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

    his love endures forever.

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

Resources Used

Angel Unaware by Dale Evans Rogers 

The Life of Roy Rogers by Charles River Editors 

https://lantern.mediahist.org/

Cowboy Church #248 - Christmas Eve Service.

 Hello, my friends and welcome to a special Christmas Eve service of Cowboy Church. 

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers with a medley of Sleigh Ride and Jingle Bells. This comes from Roy and his wife Dale Evans' 1967 Christmas album, Christmas is Always. 

This is followed by Johnny Cash with The Gifts They Gave. This song was written by John himself and first appeared in his 1963 Christmas album, The Christmas Spirit. 

Afterwards comes everyone's favorite cowboy/hippie Willie Nelson with It Came Upon a Midnight Clear. The song was written by Edmund H. Sears. This hymn first appeared in Boston's Christian Register, on December 29, 1849 (yes after Christmas). That version has a verse that does not appear in this version, "But with the woes of sin and strife the world has suffered long; Beneath the angel-strain have rolled Two thousand years of wrong; And man, at war with man, hears not the love-song, which they bring: O hush the noise, ye men of strife, and hear the angels sing!" This verse reflects the state if America at the time this song was written. The Civil War was approaching, and Sears found himself concerned with the division in our country. Unlike many Christmas songs, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear is not a song about peace on Earth but rather a plea for it. With the division and anger that is so prevalent today, this is a perfect Christmas song for our time. This song has been put to different tunes over the years and the two most prevalent are Carol (by Richard Storis Willis in 1850) and Noel (by Sir Arthur Sullivan in 1878). Carol is the preferred version of this song in the U.S. and is the one Willie performs here. The tune had been used for other lyrics dating back to when it was written in 1850, and was first used to accompany, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear in 1878. Willie's version comes from his 1997 Christmas album, Christmas with Willie Nelson.

Then comes Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with The Little Boy Who Couldn't Find Christmas. This is the A-Side of a 1954 Little Golden Record. The B-Side would be The Story of Christmas. 

Next is Martha Mears and The Sons of the Pioneers with a 1944 radio performance of Jingle Bells. James Lord Pierpont wrote this song in 1857. Despite being known as a Christmas song today, it was originally written with a different holiday in mind. Under its original title, One Horse Open Sleigh this song was written to be used in a Thanksgiving service at a Church where Pierpont was the organist. The song was so well received that it played again at the Church on Christmas day. For a song written to be performed at a Church, the original lyrics were racier than one would think and would be changed so that children's church choirs can perform the song.

Afterwards is Waylon Jennings with O Come All Ye Faithful. This hymn was originally written by John Francis Wade, who wrote the song in Latin under the name Adeste Fiedeles. Much later Frederick Oakley and William Brooke credited an English translation of this hymn. Instead of just directly translating the hymn, they also added some new stanzas. This version of the hymn first appeared in 1841 in FH Murray's Hymnal for Use in the English Church.

This is followed by Merle Haggard with Santa Claus and Popcorn. This song (written by Merle himself) comes from Merle's 1973 album, Hag's Christmas. It is important to remember with all the ways we celebrate Christmas, that this holiday is all about Jesus and all these ways we celebrate are there to pay tribute to him, including Santa Claus and Popcorn.  

Just in time for Christmas Eve, next is Gene Autry and Rosemary Clooney with The Night Before Christmas Song.  

Then comes Tex Ritter with his 1945 recording of Christmas Carols by the Old Coral.

Next is Randy Travis with God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. The origins of this hymn remain unknown. However, it must date back to at least the 1800's as it is sung outside Ebenezer Scrooge's office in Charles Dickens'  A Christmas Carol (1843). The Oxford Book of Carols (London, 1928) gives two different tunes to these lyrics. The first is known as the "Cornish" version and is rarely heard today. The second is known as the "London" version and is the one we most often hear today. The London version is believed to have first been first published in A Little Book of Christmas Carols, with Ancient Melodies to which they are Sung in Various Parts of the Country (1846). That this was published in 1846 makes many music and literary scholars believe that the Cornish version is the one that Ebenezer Scrooge probably heard.   

Today's musical selection ends with The Charlie Daniels Band with Jesus is the Light of the World. This comes from their 1980 album, Christmas Time Down South  

Now for a special Christmas episode of Roy Rogers' radio show.

Now for a Christmas message from the Reverand Billy Graham. 

Matthew 1:18-2:23

The Birth of Jesus Christ

18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:

23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,

    and they shall call his name Immanuel”

(which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.

The Visit of the Wise Men

2 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:

6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;

for from you shall come a ruler

    who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

The Flight to Egypt

13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14 And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt 15 and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

Herod Kills the Children

16 Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah:

18 “A voice was heard in Ramah,

    weeping and loud lamentation,

Rachel weeping for her children;

    she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.”

The Return to Nazareth

19 But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead.” 21 And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. 23 And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene.

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

Cowboy Church #233

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing 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.

This is followed by Willie and Bobbie Nelson with When We All Get to Heaven. On this recording Willie sings the classic gospel tune while his sister Bobbie accompanies him on piano. This comes from a 2013 gospel album the two made together called Just As I Am.  

Afterwards is Anne Wilson with Stars. This song will be on her upcoming album, Stars, which will come out on October 17, 2025. 

Next comes Patty Loveless with Two Coats. This recoding comes from her 2001 gospel album, Mountain Soul. 

Then comes The Monroe Brothers with What Would You Give in Exchange for Your Soul. They recorded this song on February 17th, 1936, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Next comes Johnny Cash with the self-penned He'll Be a Friend. This song is a very important one for us believers, reminding us that there will never come a time when God will not be there with us every step of the way. Whenever we feel that we are alone in this world, we can remember that we never are because God is always there and as Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Despite Johnny writing this song himself, many of the message is one Johnny would have to remind himself of in his darker moments. However, as anyone who knows Johnny Cash's story knows, it is a story of how God will never abandon us and no matter how dark the roads are, he is always there to lead us back to where we need to be. Johnny had done so much wrong, yet God not only redeemed him, but used his story and music to bring many others to Christ. If Johnny can be used by God and truthfully call himself a Christian, then we can too. This song comes from Johnny's 1959 album, Hymns by Johnny Cash. Johnny had wanted to be a gospel singer before he ever made music his career. Yet when he came to Sun Records, he was told gospel wouldn't sell like rock and roll or country music, so at Sun Johnny mostly recorded country and rock songs. However, when he moved to Columbia, he was free to record as much gospel as he wanted. His first album for Columbia (The Fabulous Johnny Cash) would feature a good share of gospel music and his second would be this full gospel album. 

Then comes Jean Shepard with Sunday Christian. This is the closing song on her 1969 gospel album, I'll Fly Away. 

Today's musical selection concludes with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1947 recording of The Sea Walker. This song was written by Tim Spencer, one of the group's founding members. Music was a major part of Tim's life from very early on. In fact when he was only 3 years old he was already singing at the church he grew up in. His love of things cowboy and western related also began very early as he had grown in awe of western movies and screen cowboys like Tom Mix, Hoot Gibson, William S. Hart and others were his boyhood heroes. With this it is no surprise that in 1931, he went to California to see how his talents could be used in Hollywood. Yet music always remained a major passion for him. As he worked in a warehouse, he would spend his weekends and time after working going around to all the country music radio shows, getting to know all the people he could. This is how he met fellow founding members of the Sons of the Pioneers, Bob Nolan and Leonard Slye (later Roy Rogers). The Sea Walker as well as being written by Tim also features him as the lead singer. The great Bass vocals in this song are courtesy of Hugh Farr.

Now for the seventh chapter of the Buck Jones movie serial, The Red Rider (1934). 

Now for a message from S.M. Lockridge.

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Colossians 3:12

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed. Proverbs 19:17 

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. Philippians 3:10

 I 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 16:33

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11

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

Cowboy Church #225

 Hello and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church. 

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing a medley of Whispering Hope and Star of Hope. This lovely medley comes from Roy and Dale's 1973 gospel album, In the Sweet By and By. 

This is followed by the Hayden Quartet with their 1910 recording of Nearer My God to Thee. This hymn was written by stage actress Sarah Flower Adams. She had had great success on the stage and was especially praised for her role in an 1837 production of Macbeth. However, her failing health made her have to leave the stage. During this time, she took comfort in writing hymns and poems. In 1841, her pastor was having trouble coming up with a hymn to fit a sermon about Jacob's Ladder. Sarah decided to write a hymn for this sermon and to get it done in time for the church service she wrote it in just a week's time. 

Afterwards is Willie Nelson and his sons Lukas and Micah Nelson with Come on Back Jesus. This recording comes from Willie's 2012 album, Heroes.  

Then comes Johnny Cash singing The Battle Hymn of the Old Republic. This performance comes from an episode of John's TV show that first aired on Sept. 27, 1969. Backing vocals here are provided by The Carter Family and The Statler Brothers. 

Next is The Sons of the Pioneers performing 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.

Afterwards is Tompall Glaser with his version of What a Freind 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. 

Today's musical selection ends with Cal Smith singing Jesus is a Good Ole Boy. This recording comes from his 1974 album, Country Bumpkin.  

Now for a sermon from Charles Spurgeon. 



 

Now for an episode of The Lone Ranger radio show. 

Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. Proverbs 14:29

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:36

Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Psalm 31:3

A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself. Proverbs 11:17

Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 1 Peter 3:9 

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

Cowboy Church #223

 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 Dick Robertson with his 1933 recording of The Last Round Up.

Afterwards is Willie Nelson with It's Not for Me to Understand. Willie talked about this song in his book, It's a Long Story: My Life, "The questions raised by the Bible - questions that had been entertained by deep thinkers like Khalil Gibran and Edgar Cayce - had no easy answers. I imagined a blind boy in a school yard, listening to the other children play. Again, the questioning began ... 'It's Not for Me to Understand' became one of the key songs and led to even more pleadings on my part. The sign came in the form of the lyrics. I don't feel that I wrote them. More accurately, I have to say that I felt like I channeled them." This song comes from one of Willie's best albums 1971's Yesterday's Wine. Willie himself would say, "I thought Yesterday's Wine was my most honest album to date."

Then comes Backwoods Bluegrass with 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 comes The Sons of the Pioneers with What Wonderful Joy. The group recorded this song in Chicago in September 1941.  

Now for Merle Haggard with a medley of Take My Hand Precious Lord and Jesus Hold My Hand. This comes from his 1971 gospel album, The Land of Many Churches. On this recording The Carter Family is providing the background vocals.  

Afterwards is The Stanley Brothers with What a Friend We Have in Jesus. This is truly a lovely recording of this old hymn. 

Today's musical selection ends with Johnny Cash with his self-penned I Came to Believe. John recorded this song in 1984, however the song would not be released until 2014, after John had passed. It was released on the album, Out Among the Stars, which was a collection of newly discovered lost recording sessions John did in the 1980's.

 

Now for a sermon from Martin Luther King Jr. 

Now for an episode of Roy Rogers' TV show.

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29

But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes. 1 John 2:11

The rich and the poor have a common bond; the Lord is the maker of them all. Proverbs 22:2

You shall not oppress a hired worker who is poor and needy, whether he is one of your brothers or one of the sojourners who are in your land within your towns. Deuteronomy 24:14

You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt. Exodus 22:21

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

Cowboy Church #220

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing Sweet Hour of Prayer. Prayer is one of the important parts of a Christians life but it also something that many Christians don't spend enough time doing. I admit myself to having been guilty of prayer far less than I should. Yet talking to the God of the universe is an incredible privilege we have and one of the greatest blessings in our lives. 

This is followed by Thomas Rhett, Reba McEntire and Chris Tomlin with Be a Light. This performance took place at the 2020 CMA Awards. 

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."

Afterwards is Mountain Faith with Love Lifted Me. This hymn was written in 1912 by James Rowe and Howard E. Smith. Rowe's daughter would later state, “I can see them now, my father striding up and down humming a bar or two, and Howard E. playing it and jotting it down…The two huddled together, working line by line, bar by bar, composing this hymn in tandem.”
, 
Then comes Harry Macdonough and Haydn Quartet with their 1906 recording of When the Roll is Called Up Yonder. 

Next is The Sons of Pioneers with their 1951 recording of Wonderous Word of the Lord. 

Now for Rex Allen with I Won't Need My Six Gun in Heaven. 

Today's musical selection ends with Willie Nelson and his self-penned gospel song, In God's Eyes. Speaking about this song in his autobiography, It's a Long Story: My Life, Willie stated, "I needed to remind myself that, although I've strayed from the straight and narrow, I never strayed from my core beliefs. In 'In God's Eyes,' the next song in the sequence, I made that very point." This song comes from Willie's 1971 album, Yesterday's Wine. About this album Willie would state, "I looked up and simply began asking questions. Rather than keep those questions to myself, I put them into songs. The songs became my own particular prayers, my own personal reflections. I strung those prayers and reflections together in a loose-fitting suite. Music critics were throwing around the term 'concept album' - like the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club or Marvin Gaye's What's Going On. I suppose you could say this new notion of mine came together as a concept album. Rather than trying to write a bunch of hit singles, I simply followed the natural path taken by my mind."

Now for an episode of the Red Ryder radio show.

Now for a message from S.M. Lockridge. 

Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10 

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalms 18:2

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, Philippians 2:14-15 

And to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me. Micah 7:7

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4 

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

Cowboy Church #204

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with The Bible Tells Me So. This song was written by Dale herself. 

This is followed by Vernon Dalhart and Adelyn Hood with their 1930 recording of Sing Hallelujah. 

Then comes Willie Nelson with his self-penned gospel song, In God's Eyes. Speaking about this song Willie stated, "I needed to remind myself that, although I've strayed from the straight and narrow, I never strayed from my core beliefs. In 'In God's Eyes,' the next song in the sequence, I made that very point." This song comes from Willie's 1971 album, Yesterday's Wine. About this album Willie would state, "I looked up and simply began asking questions. Rather than keep those questions to myself, I put them into songs. The songs became my own particular prayers, my own personal reflections. I strung those prayers and reflections together in a loose-fitting suite. Music critics were throwing around the term 'concept album' - like the Beatles' Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club or Marvin Gaye's What's Going On. I suppose you could say this new notion of mine came together as a concept album. Rather than trying to write a bunch of hit singles, I simply followed the natural path taken by my mind." (quotes come from Willie's autobiography It's a Long Story: My Life).

Afterwards is Chris Tomlin, Florida Goergia Line and Thomas Rhett with Thank You Lord. This comes from Chris Tomlin's 2020 album, Chris Tomlin and Friends. This album featured the Christian singer performing various songs with popular country singers. 

Next is The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1947 recording of The Sea Walker. This song was written by Tim Spencer, one of the group's founding members. Music was a major part of Tim's life from very early on. In fact, when he was only 3 years old, he was already singing at the church he grew up in. His love of things cowboy and western related also began very early as he had grown in awe of western movies and screen cowboys like Tom Mix, Hoot Gibson, William S. Hart and others were his boyhood heroes. With this it is no surprise that in 1931, he went to California to see how his talents could be used in Hollywood. Yet music always remained a major passion for him. As he worked in a warehouse, he would spend his weekends and time after working going around to all the country music radio shows, getting to know all the people he could. This is how he met fellow founding members of the Sons of the Pioneers, Bob Nolan and Leonard Slye (later Roy Rogers). The Sea Walker as well as being written by Tim also features him as the lead singer. The great Bass vocals in this song are courtesy of Hugh Farr.

Then comes Melba Montgomery with Crossing Over Jordon. This recording comes from her 1966 gospel album, Hallelujah Road.  

This is followed by Chosen Road with Blessed Assurance. This hymn came about when songwriter Fanny Crosby visited composer Phoebe Palmer Knapp. Knapp played a tune for Crosby and asked what came to her mind with that tune. Crosby said, "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!" She then immediately followed it with more lyrics that would be in the finished song. The song was published in 1873 and first appeared in a monthly magazine for which the editors were Joseph Fairchild Knapp and Phoebe Palmer Knapp (who were husband and wife). When it later appeared in 1887's Gospel Songs, No. 5 by Ira Sankey, this we lead it to greater fame as it would be commonly sung in the revivals of Dwight L. Moody and Sankey. By 1889, the hymn commonly appeared in Methodist hymnals. 

Today's musical selection ends with Johnny Cash singing Jesus Was a Carpenter. What I love about this song is that it takes about what happened back when Jesus was on Earth, but it puts it in a modern context even looking at many of today's political and social issues. This shows that the Bible is just as true today and that even after all these centuries we can still apply it to what is going on in our world today. The very idea of praising Jesus in socially conscious folk song, paints a great picture of what Johnny Cash and his music were all about. This recording comes from his 1970 album, Hello I'm Johnny Cash. 

Now for some of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans' home movies. 

Now for a sermon from Martin Luther King Jr. 

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? Psalm 56:3-4

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. Isaiah 26:3-4

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 1 John 4:18

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6

My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. John 17:15

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24

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

Cowboy Church #196

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with a wonderful version of the classic hymn, How Great Thou Art. In the book, Happy Trails: Our Life Story, Roy tells of a story that had to do with this song. "I'll tell you about one time we nearly got into a real war with the promoters: at the World Championship Rodeo at Madison Square Garden in 1952. During the first rehearsal I started to practice 'How Great Thou Art,' a religious song I wanted to make the centerpiece of our musical act. There's a line in that song that goes, 'Then sings my soul my Savior God to Thee...' Someone in the front office heard the rehearsal and came to me that night to tell me I wasn't allowed to mention Christ at the rodeo. 'It might work for the kids in Houston, Texas' he told me, 'But this is New York. You can't preach to kids here.' I told him I wasn't preaching but that the Savior was a part of the song and I fully intended to sing that song in New York or anywhere else we performed. They suggested that I could change the words of the song so it didn't mention Him. I'm not one for grandstand plays but I told those fellas that if I couldn't sing 'How Great thou Art' just how it was written, Dale and I would pack up and leave town. The song stayed in the show. That year we did forty-three performances over twenty-six days and broke all Madison Square Garden attendance records."

This is followed by Anne Wilson with a live performance of God and Country. 

Then comes George Jones with Cup Loneliness. This self-penned gospel song was the title track of George's 1967 gospel album. 

Afterwards is Mainer's Mountaineers with their 1936 recording of What Would Give in Exchange for Your Soul. 

 When Bob Dylan made his 1962 debut album (simply titled Bob Dylan), he was not yet known as a songwriter or a poet. Instead, he was an interpreter of old folk songs. Though this first album featured two songs written by Bob Dylan, the majority of the album consisted of old folk and blues songs. One of these was the gospel-blues tinged In My Time of Dyin'. The liner notes for the album state, "Dylan had never sung In My Time of Dyin' prior to this recording session. He does not recall when he first heard it. The guitar is fretted with the lipstick holder he borrowed from his girl, Susie Rotolo, who sat devotedly and wide-eyed through the recording session." This is in my mind one of the highlights off the album and one of my all-time favorite vocal performances by Bob Dylan. Despite the many jokes about his voice, there are quite a few times, when he turned in a great vocal performance and this is one of those times.

Now for  The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1947 recording of The Sea Walker. This song was written by Tim Spencer, one of the group's founding members. Music was a major part of Tim's life from very early on. In fact when he was only 3 years old he was already singing at the church he grew up in. His love of things cowboy and western related also began very early as he had grown in awe of western movies and screen cowboys like Tom Mix, Hoot Gibson, William S. Hart and others were his boyhood heroes. With this it is no surprise that in 1931, he went to California to see how his talents could be used in Hollywood. Yet music always remained a major passion for him. As he worked in a warehouse, he would spend his weekends and time after working going around to all the country music radio shows, getting to know all the people he could. This is how he met fellow founding members of the Sons of the Pioneers, Bob Nolan and Leonard Slye (later Roy Rogers). The Sea Walker as well as being written by Tim also features him as the lead singer. The great Bass vocals in this song are courtesy of Hugh Farr.

Now for Willie Nelson and Bobbie Nelson with Revive Us Again. Bobbie Nelson was Willie's sister and is the piano player on this track. 

 

Now for the C.S. Lewis essay, Myth Became Fact. 

Now for an episode of Gene Autry's TV show.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3 

 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:3

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23

But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love. Psalms 33:18

Thanks for joining me. Come back in a couple weeks  for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again. 

Cowboy Church #195

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Near to the Heart of God. This hymn was written by Cleland McAfee, a pastor and choir leader at the Presbyterian Church at Park College in Parkville, Mo. This song came about after his two infant nieces passed away from diphtheria. His daughter recounted in her book, Near to the Heart of God, “The family and town were stricken with grief. My father often told us how he sat long and late thinking of what could be said in word and song on the coming Sunday.... So he wrote the little song. The choir learned it at the regular Saturday night rehearsal, and afterward they went to Howard McAfee’s home and sang it as they stood under the sky outside the darkened, quarantined house. It was sung again on Sunday morning at the communion service.... The hymn was first included in The Choir Leader, October, 1903.”

 This is followed by Willie Nelson with his self-penned gospel song, In God's Eyes. Speaking about this song Willie stated, "I needed to remind myself that, although I've strayed from the straight and narrow, I never strayed from my core beliefs. In 'In God's Eyes,' the next song in the sequence, I made that very point." This song comes from Willie's 1971 album, Yesterday's Wine. About this album Willie would state, "I looked up and simply began asking questions. Rather than keep those questions to myself, I put them into songs. The songs became my own particular prayers, my own personal reflections. I strung those prayers and reflections together in a loose-fitting suite. Music critics were throwing around the term 'concept album' - like the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club or Marvin Gaye's What's Going On. I suppose you could say this new notion of mine came together as a concept album. Rather than trying to write a bunch of hit singles, I simply followed the natural path taken by my mind."

Afterwards is Jimmie Widener and the Voices of the West with their 1955 recording of Whose Side Are You On. 

Then comes J.E. Mainer's Mountaineers with their 1946 recording of Before Judgement Day. 

Next is The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of Power in the Blood. Though there may be many tough times we may face in life and days that seem overwhelming, the blessing of Jesus Christ and the power of his love is greater than any hardship we might face. Roy Rogers sings lead on this track and the great bass vocals are by Hugh Farr. 

A Singer of Songs in my mind gets down to the essence of Johnny Cash and honestly when I first I found out I was surprised he had not written it. What is interesting is that when interviewed about this recording for the Unearthed Box set, Johnny stated, "Good song but I don't know whose it is." Producer Rick Rubin in comments for the box set stated that he felt this was "one of the most touching and emotional of all the songs." However, he admitted "I have no idea where it came from. I don't even remember recording it." He wondered how he could have possibly missed putting this song on one of the albums he and Johnny did together. Johnny's song John Carter Cash however shed light on where this song came from. "Every once in a while, I'd bring in a song or two - he knows instantly, when he hears a song, whether it will work out for him or not. This was written by Tim O'Connell." This song was recorded during the sessions for Johnny's third album for Rick Rubin, Solitary Man. Johnny was at heart simply a singer and a storyteller and he knew that there was no greater story than that of Jesus Christ. 

Today's musical selection ends with Mac Wiseman with Hold Fast to the Right. 

Now for a message from S.M. Lockridge. 

Now for an episode of The Lone Ranger radio show. 

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 14:27

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 

Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:18

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

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

Cowboy Church #181

 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. This song reminds us that we are not only to leave a small part of the day with Jesus as our focus but all day long as well as every day. We should wake up each morning with Jesus on our mind and go to bed each night the same way. While few of us will succeed with this every day, we will find that each day we do it will be an enriching day that will makes us grow as a person. This song comes from Roy and Dale’s 1973 gospel album, In the Sweet By and By.

This is followed by Anne Wilson with Songs about Whiskey. This comes from her most recent album, 2024’s Rebel. 

Afterwards is Johnny Cash with 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.

Then comes Mainer's Mountaineers with their 1937 recording of Carry Your Cross with a Smile. 

Up next is Jim and Jesse with Where the Roses Never Fade. This recording comes from their 1964 album, The Old Country Church.

Afterwards is the Prairie Ramblers with their 1936 recording of How Beautiful Heaven Must Be.

Up next is Willie Nelson with Unclouded Day. This song was written by Josiah Kelley Alwood in 1979. Alwood described why he wrote this song stating, “It was a balmy night in August 1879, when returning from a debate in Spring Hill, Ohio, to my home in Morenci, Michigan, about 1:00 a.m. I saw a beautiful rainbow north by northwest against a dense black nimbus cloud. The sky was all perfectly clear except this dark cloud which covered about forty degrees of the horizon and extended about halfway to the zenith. The phenomenon was entirely new to me, and my nerves refreshed by the balmy air and the lovely sight. Old Morpheus was playing his sweetest lullaby. Another mile of travel, a few moments of time, a fellow of my size was ensconced in sweet home and wrapped in sweet sleep. A first-class know-nothing till rosy-sweet morning was wide over the fields. To awake and look abroad and remember the night was to be filled with sweet melody. A while at the organ brought forth a piece of music now known as “The Unclouded Day.” A day and a half was bestowed on the four stanzas.” This version comes from Willie's first (and best) gospel album, 1976's The Troublemaker. This recording features Willie at his best as this is one of the most fun and energetic versions of this song and Willie's voice and guitar playing are in top form. Gospel means "good news", so it is no wonder that so much of it is so joyful and this is about as joyful as it gets. 

Today's musical selection ends with Sons of the Pioneers with Will There be Sagebrush in Heaven. This recording comes from their most recent album, 2024's Campfire Spirituals. The group had previously recorded this song in 1947, though the group of course had a completely different line up at that time.  

Now for a message from the Rev. Billy Graham. 

Now for an episode of Roy Rogers radio show. 

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 

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalms 23:4

The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. Psalm 118:24

The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. Proverbs 11:3

To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice. Proverbs 21:3

Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. Hebrews 13:18

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such 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. 

Cowboy Church #171

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

Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with May The Good Lord Take A Likin' To Ya.

This is followed by Kitty Wells with Let's Regain the Garden. This recording comes from Kitty Wells' 1965 gospel album, The Kitty Wells Family - Gospel Songs.

Afterwards is Tex Ritter with his 1955 recording of These Hands. On this recording Tex is backed up by The June Nelson Singers and Nelson Riddle with his orchestra. This song was written by Eddie Noack, a country singer who had a hit with his 1968 recording of Leon Payne's murder ballad Psycho. Out of the song's Noack wrote, These Hands is probably the most popular. Johnny Cash, Hank Snow and George Jones also recorded it.  

Then comes Williamson Branch with Oh How I Love Jesus. This hymn was based off a poem by Frederick Whitfield. This poem was entitled The Name of Jesus and originally appeared in 1855 in hymn-sheets and leaflets. It would appear in 1861's Sacred Poems and Prose, which was a collection by Whitfield himself.

This is followed by Willie Nelson with his self-penned gospel song, In God's Eyes. Writing about this song (in his autobiography It's a Long Story: My Life) Willie stated, "I needed to remind myself that, although I've strayed from the straight and narrow, I never strayed from my core beliefs. In 'In God's Eyes,' the next song in the sequence, I made that very point." This song comes from Willie's 1971 album, Yesterday's Wine. About this album Willie would state (again in his autobiography), "I looked up and simply began asking questions. Rather than keep those questions to myself, I put them into songs. The songs became my own particular prayers, my own personal reflections. I strung those prayers and reflections together in a loose-fitting suite. Music critics were throwing around the term 'concept album' - like the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club or Marvin Gaye's What's Going On. I suppose you could say this new notion of mine came together as a concept album. Rather than trying to write a bunch of hit singles, I simply followed the natural path taken by my mind."


A Singer of Songs in my mind gets down to the essence of Johnny Cash and honestly when I first I found out I was surprised he had not written it. What is interesting is that when interviewed about this recording for the Unearthed Box set, Johnny stated, "Good song but I don't know whose it is." Producer Rick Rubin in comments for the box set stated that he felt this was "one of the most touching and emotional of all the songs." However, he admitted "I have no idea where it came from. I don't even remember recording it." He wondered how he could have possibly missed putting this song on one of the albums he and Johnny did together. Johnny's song John Carter Cash however shed light on where this song came from. "Every once in a while, I'd bring in a song or two - he knows instantly, when he hears a song, whether it will work out for him or not. This was written by Tim O'Connell." This song was recorded during the sessions for Johnny's third album for Rick Rubin, Solitary Man. Johnny was a heart simply a singer and a storyteller and he knew that there was no greater story than that of Jesus Christ. 

Next is The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of Power in the Blood. Though there may be many tough times we may face in life and days that seem overwhelming, the blessing of Jesus Christ and the power of his love is greater than any hardship we might face. Roy Rogers sings lead on this track and the great bass vocals are by Hugh Farr. 

Today's musical selection ends with Don Gibson with God Walks These Hills with Me. No matter what we may go through in life God walks every hill with us and we are never truly alone. This recording comes from Don's 1964 gospel album, God Walks These Hills.

Now for the Roy Rogers movie, The Arizona Kid (1939). This film also features Gabby Hays who simply makes every B Western he is in better simply by his presence. Stuart Hamblen, writer of such songs as It Is No Secret (What God Can Do), This Ole House, Texas Plains, Open Up Your Heart (And Let the Sunshine In), (Remember Me) I'm the One Who Loves You and Hardrock, Coco and Joe, plays the villain. This movie was directed by Joseph Kane, who specialized in making fast paced and fun B Westerns. He directed films starring such great cowboy stars as Roy Rogers, John Wayne, Gene Autry, Ken Maynard and William Boyd.

Now for C.S. Lewis essay, Good Work and Good Works.

Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 1 Peter 3:8

Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

Whoever is wise, let him understand these things; whoever is discerning, let him know them; for the ways of the Lord are right, and the upright walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them. Hosea 14:9

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