Johnny Cash & His Faith
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries
10/17/22
John Carter Cash, son of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, says his father practiced his faith through his music. Click the link below to read the full interview.
Eyes on Jesus
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries
5/27/22
Please click the link below to read a story about refocusing our Eyes on Jesus.
Moment of Peace
Denise Viker, Parish Nurse
3/16/22
I came upon the video below of Sarah McLachlan singing the Prayer of St. Francis. It brought me a moment of peace, and I thought it might bring a moment of peace to others.
Be Still . . . and Listen
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries
2/18/22
God speaks to us every day. Sometimes it can be as strong as the crashing waves or as obvious as the rising of the sun. More often, it is in a still small voice. This brings us to the key word for our February Playlists, which is LISTEN. In the busyness of your day, take time to slow yourself down and find a place to be quiet before God.
Be reminded of the great blessings that He brings you every day.
Be reminded of His great love for you.
Be reminded that He hears you when you call out to Him.
Be reminded that He speaks to you, to guide you, to teach you and to draw you close to Him.
Be still and know that He is God. LISTEN . . .
Praying through Silence
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries
1/11/22
What do you expect to hear when you pray? If what you hear is silence, that can be a great way to pray. To read more on prayer and silence, click the link below.
I Will Carry You
Denise Viker, Parish Nurse
12/16/21
The song I’m sharing with you today–“I Will Carry You”– reminds me of Psalm 23 with the imagery of Jesus staying with us during the difficult times in life. If we are tired, anxious, afraid, or hopeless, this song reminds us that Jesus picks us up in His arms and chooses to be with us through it all. The lyrics also speak to forgiveness for past mistakes and remind us that Jesus chooses us every time. I pray that you feel Jesus coming close to you today and every day.
The Calling of a Parent
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
12/15/21
Click the link below to read about the important, significant work of a parent.
Inviting God to Dinner
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
12/14/21
Living Lutheran recently published an article with an all too common dilemma that parents face during dinnertime. The article helps give some guidance to parents about the importance of prayer during mealtime and how to teach our children about being thankful to God for your food and creative ways to help engage children. Click the link below to read the article from Living Lutheran on their website.
The Pattern of Worship
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
11/23/21
The article below is from the ELCA and explains the pattern of worship we typically follow during worship services as Lutherans. As the article explains, many other Christian denominations have followed this liturgical pattern for years and years. The article also stresses the importance of repetition to enrich and encourage vibrant participation from the congregation.
An Amazing Gift
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
10/21/21
I have Nick’s permission to share his story about donating a kidney last month. He’s doing well and inspiring us all with his amazing gift!
From Nicholas Selby…
I’m getting my left kidney removed today. It’s a minimally invasive surgery with a few small incisions (made by a robot, which is super cool). The kidney will get flown to Florida and transplanted. Thanks to some amazing math implemented by the National Kidney Registry, the donation is starting a chain so that other folks who need kidneys and have partners who are willing to donate but aren’t a perfect match can also get the kidneys they need. That means that, over the next few weeks, a partner of my kidney’s recipient will donate their kidney to someone else, who will have a partner willing to donate to someone else, and so on. Furthermore, instead of our recipients getting “okay” matches from a friend or family member, all of our recipients get the best match for them of the tens of thousands of people in the nationwide registry, enabling longer, better lives for all of our recipients.
This is a super safe procedure. The chance of me dying in surgery is about 1.3 in 10,000, and the probability that the kidney will help its new host is about 95%. There is no evidence that the quality or length of my life will decrease because of this surgery. Before being approved to donate, I underwent substantial physical and psychological testing to ensure that I am healthy enough to donate. I am blessed with some of the best medical professionals in the world on my team. My surgeon has performed 1,800 kidney transplants. Please pray for me, my surgery team, my recipient, and Ann and my dad, who are helping me while I recover. If this is something in which you might be interested, I would be honored to talk with you about it. Please feel free to reach out. I was inspired by a podcast, which you can check out here:
“Morning by Morning”
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
9/29/21
Sometimes it is hard to trust the direction that God is leading you. This song helps remind me that each morning God’s mercies are new. God’s faithfulness is great, and I will trust where God leads me. Watch the video of Pat Barrett singing his song “Morning by Morning” as you surrender to God’s will in your life.
“Morning By Morning”
Daily, daily I surrender
Grace for today is all that I need
Surprised by Your mercy
It’s new every morning
Awaken my soul to sing
Awaken my soul to sing
I will trust where You lead
I will trust when I can’t see
Morning by morning
Great is Your faithfulness to me
Breath by breath overtaken by want
One step at a time when I’m overwhelmed
Strength for today
Bright hope for tomorrow
I will trust with all my heart
You are good You always are
Morning by morning
Great is Your faithfulness to me
All fear be reminded
My future is secure
Oh, my Father has spoken
And He keeps His every word
CCLI License # 1031974
Do Something
Andrea Cain, Senior Pastor
9/13/21
During my sermon at our Tempe Site this past weekend, I used a song as part of the message. If you missed it, I want to share it with you. It’s called “Do Something” by Matthew West. It’s a powerful call to act on our faith. Click the link below to watch and listen.
Attitude of Gratitude
A Member of Desert Cross
8/23/21
Today Pastor Andrea gave a sermon titled Attitude of Gratitude. We had the opportunity to take blue stones representing God’s love along with blue cards with encouraging messages to share with struggling people. The cards included the message that we are praying for the person. After church, I stopped at the grocery store. On the sidewalk of the entrance to the grocery store was a disheveled man with a grocery cart packed with his possessions. It was already 93 degrees outside at 10:15 a.m. The man was in a pair of shorts, and shirtless, obviously trying to cool off in the shade of the building. As I passed him, I said, “Good morning,” and he responded, “Good morning.”
I entered the grocery store to buy an abundance of items, including things that I just wanted, not absolutely needed. As I did, I thought of this homeless man in front of the store. I remembered the blue stone and the blue card from church just 30 minutes ago. The Lord is presenting me with a perfect opportunity to pass on God’s love to this man. So, I bought a greeting card and a small gift card to Wendy’s, which is in the same parking lot of the grocery store. The greeting card had a message about God’s love on it. After checking out, I signed the card with a simple smiley face, placed the gift card inside with the blue stone and blue card, passing God’s love on to this man. As I left the grocery store, I gave the card to the man. He exclaimed, “You got me a card! It’s been a long time since anyone has given me a card.” Then he asked, “And what can I do for you?” “Nothing,” I said, shocked that this man, obviously so down on his luck, offered to help me! Then I said, “I hope it just brings some happiness to your day!” I left the parking lot so impressed with the ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE that he expressed. Thankful for a simple greeting card, not even knowing what was inside of it.
As I drove away, I had a difficult time not crying because my heart hurt for him, yet in my mind I was so impressed by his Attitude of Gratitude. I’m thankful to the Lord for presenting this opportunity to me to reach out with God’s love. God’s timing is truly perfect!
Sharing Space & Building Relationships
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
7/26/21
Click the link below to read how East End Temple and Cordoba House began by sharing space and moved to building relationships.
Sharing Space & Building Relationships
The Empty Chair
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
5/24/21
Click on the link below for a beautiful story about prayer.
Sing with Me!
Denise Viker, Parish Nurse
5/6/21
I love all kinds of music! I especially love country music! In the article below, Carrie Underwood talks about an online concert she did Easter Sunday. I missed that concert, but I saw her on the Country Music Awards last month. She sang songs from her new gospel album. It was amazing! Click the link below to read about her love for gospel music and for links to several of the songs. Enjoy!
At the Cross
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
3/15/21
What a tremendous promise. Jesus paid the price for our sins on the cross of Calvary. Our sins are washed away, and we are white as snow. We find forgiveness, hope and eternal life because of the sacrifice Jesus made for us. It is not of any great work on our part. It is because of the finished work of Christ. Praise be to God!
Mercy
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
2/22/21
What an incredible thing is God’s mercy. In it, we can find forgiveness, hope and purpose through Jesus Christ. As we remember the mercy that God has shown us, we can also show the same mercy to others around us. What better way to be a light in a dark world, than in shining the light of Jesus Christ in this way. Let’s change the world together! Click the link below to hear this message in “Mercy” by Matt Redman. You’ll also find the lyrics included here.
I will kneel in the dust
At the foot of the cross,
Where mercy paid for me.
Where the wrath I deserve,
It is gone, it has passed.
Your blood has hidden me.
Mercy, mercy,
As endless as the sea.
I’ll sing Your hallelujah
For all eternity.
We will lift up the cup
And the bread we will break,
Remembering Your love.
We were fallen from grace,
But You took on our shame
And nailed it to a cross.
Mercy, mercy,
As endless as the sea.
I’ll sing Your hallelujah
For all eternity.
Mercy, mercy,
As endless as the sea.
I’ll sing Your hallelujah
For all eternity.
May I never lose the wonder,
Oh, the wonder of Your mercy.
May I sing Your hallelujah.
Hallelujah, Amen.
May I never lose the wonder,
Oh, the wonder of Your mercy.
May I sing Your hallelujah.
Hallelujah, Amen.
May I never lose the wonder,
Oh, the wonder of Your mercy.
May I sing Your hallelujah.
Hallelujah, Amen.
May I never lose the wonder,
Oh, the wonder of Your mercy.
May I sing Your hallelujah.
Hallelujah, Amen.
May I never lose the wonder,
Oh, the wonder of Your mercy.
May I sing Your hallelujah.
Hallelujah, Amen.
I will kneel in the dust
At the foot of the cross,
Where mercy paid for me.
Lord Have Mercy
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
2/17/21
“Lord Have Mercy” is a Michael W. Smith song with a message suited for Lent. Click the link below to read the lyrics and listen to its message.
Advent Gift of Music
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
12/9/20
As we journey through the seasons of Advent and Christmas, I am reminded of two of the most famous modern songs about the birth of Jesus Christ, “Mary, Did You Know” and “Breath of Heaven.” Click the link below for a fascinating arrangement of both songs put together in a compelling anthem by Charlotte Ave and Anthem Lights. Watch, listen and be blessed!
Amazing Grace
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
10/29/20
“Amazing Grace”
Chris Tomlin | John Newton | Louie Giglio
Verse 1
Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost but now I’m found
Was blind but now I see
Verse 2
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
Chorus
My chains are gone I’ve been set free
My God my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love amazing grace
Verse 3
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures
Chorus
My chains are gone I’ve been set free
My God my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love amazing grace
Chorus
My chains are gone I’ve been set free
My God my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love amazing grace
Verse 4
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine
CCLI Song # 4768151
God of Justice
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
9/14/20
Below you’ll find a link to “God of Justice” presented by Daniel Decker. We’ve also included the lyrics. The song includes a call for action for each of us.
“God of Justice”
God of Justice Saviour to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served
Jesus You have called us
Freely we’ve received
Now freely we will give
We must go
Live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward
Keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go
To act justly every day
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God
You have shown us what You require
Freely we’ve received
Now freely we will give
We must go
Live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward
Keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out Lord
(REPEAT)
We must go
Live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward
Keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go
Be Thou My Vision
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
8/10/20
I recently listened to many of the songs by Shane and Shane off their Hymns Volume 2 album. Shane and Shane present classic hymns with a refreshing modern accompaniment. The website below is a blog post that briefly reviews the album and lists the tracks. Scroll down to the hymn titles and enjoy listening to some great music today.
Road to Christianity
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
7/20/20
Grace is a gift from God. This amazing gift can be challenging for some to understand. Click the link below to read about one man’s experience.
Your Will be Done
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
7/6/20
Click the link below for a song by CityAlight. During these trying times, it is important for us to see the bigger picture. As “Thy Will be Done” concludes, the chorus reminds us: “Father, not my will, but Yours be done.” Take a few minutes to listen and calm your heart and spirit.
Ever Be
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
5/5/20
I adore this worship song. As we live through these difficult days, the Almighty God saves us, empowers us, hears our prayers and changes us to be more like Him.
Let this music and melody speak to your heart as it has mine. Click the link below to watch and listen.
“Ever Be”
Your love is devoted like a ring of solid gold,
Like a vow that is tested, like a covenant of old.
Your love is enduring through the winter rain
And beyond the horizon with mercy for today.
Faithful you have been and faithful you will be.
You pledge yourself to me and it’s why I sing
Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips.
You will be praised, You will be praised.
With angels and saints we sing worthy are you Lord.
You Father the orphan. Your kindness makes us whole.
And you shoulder our weakness,
and your strength becomes our own.
Now you’re making me like you, clothing me in white,
Bringing beauty from ashes for you will have your bride
Free of all her guilt and rid of all her shame,
and known by her true name and it’s why I sing
And it’s why I sing
Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips.
Simply Lent
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
3/2/20
Join us each Wednesday at Desert Cross Lutheran Church for special Lenten Worship Services entitled Simply Lent. During this time of solemn reflection and preparation for Easter, we will be singing Holden Evening Prayer. Holden Evening Prayer was written in 1985-86 by Marty Haugen while he was the musician-in-residence at Holden Village, a Lutheran retreat center in Washington State. This lovely setting of vespers follows the traditional form while using contemporary and inclusive language.
To watch and listen to Holden Evening Prayer from St. Olaf College, click the link below.
Epiphany: Unfolding the Discovery
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
1/29/20
Epiphany began earlier this month on January 6th. The season will carry us through February to Lent. Use the link below for a resource provided by the Women of the ELCA to dig deeper into Epiphany.
Epiphany: Unfolding the Discovery
Love Came Down to Bethlehem
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
12/23/19
As we wait for Christmas, we think about gifts and giving. Let us remember the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. The little baby, born in a lowly manger who is Emmanuel, which means God with us! This song powerfully reminds us of this great and eternal truth, that God sent His Son so we might know Him. Glory to God in the highest!
Click the link below to listen to Matt Maher’s song about this gift.
Advent Songs
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
12/2/19
As we start our Advent waiting and approach Christmas, some of us may already be listening to Christmas songs on the radio or in our living rooms, it is important to note that there are many beautiful songs written for Advent.
Click on the link below to find a list of centuries-old classics as well as some more recent original songs. Tell us about your favorite Advent songs in the comment section below.
Revised Common Lectionary
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
11/26/19
Since Desert Cross Lutheran Church is a part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we follow the Revised Common Lectionary. The Lectionary follows a three-year cycle of scriptures designated as Year A, B, and C. Each year of the Lectionary focuses on one of the synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The Gospel of John is read periodically in all three years and is especially frequent in Year B.
This year we’re also using the texts from the Revised Common Lectionary during our Education time. It’s a great way to connect WE╬ogether Worship with WE╬ogether Education.
Click the link below to read more details about the Revised Common Lectionary from the ELCA’s website.
Come to the Table
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
11/20/19
This is such an incredible song about the church and the hope that we find in Jesus Christ. No matter our background, strengths, weakness, talents or burdens, there is healing, hope and forgiveness in the loving arms of God.
Click the link below to listen.
Share your thoughts through the comment section below.
Hold Me Jesus
Daniel Decker, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Tempe
10/23/19
Every now and then a song crosses my path that strongly impacts me. “Hold Me Jesus” by Rich Mullins is one of them. From the first time I heard it, I felt the power of the lyric and the beauty of the melody. This song speaks to the trials in our lives and the God who is always there to carry us through.
Click the link below to listen.
Share your thoughts below in the comment section.
Amazing Grace
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
9/11/19
For many, “Amazing Grace” is a favorite hymn. I think this video is very inspiring and wanted to share it with the people of Desert Cross. It features Jon Batiste, Music Director of The Late Show, and Tori Kelly, pop singer, performing the hymn. What’s really amazing? This is completely unrehearsed.
Click the link below and enjoy a few minutes of beautiful music.
What is a Disciple?
Michael Lottes, Director of Worship & Music Ministries – Gilbert
8/19/19
This year WE╬ogether will use a theme word or phrase each week to help connect our Worship and Education. The weekly theme will emphasize a key idea from our Lectionary Gospel text. WE╬ogether begins Sunday, September 8. Our Gospel Lesson for that week is Luke 14:25-33, and we will focus on the word Disciple. In the Gospel text from Luke, Jesus speaks frankly about the costs of discipleship.
So what does it mean to be a disciple? The article below illustrates some different ways in which we are called to be disciples. We are called to discipleship through being a worshiper, servant, and witness. Read the article and share a comment.
Desert Cross Faith Formation 
Beautiful! Both songs, just beautiful! Thank you! ❤
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Another great Rich Mullins song.
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