Update

Things have been pretty hectic since The Atonement came out in February. Just before the release I had the privilege of ministering at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis, home to one of my modern heroes in the faith, John Piper. It was a pretty surreal experience. Those of you who are familiar with Lampmode's music know that we incorporate excerpts from his sermons in a lot of our stuff. His emphasis on the supremacy of Christ in all things and the enjoyment of God as humanity's chief purpose has greatly influenced my theology and practice over the years.

As I was on the plane to go there, I was humbled by the thought that I would have an opportunity to co-labor with someone used so greatly by God in our generation. When deejay essence and I arrived, we were warmly greeted by the saints there, who seem to have the glory of God in their DNA. One of the families from Bethlehem Baptist hosted us and they were extremely hospitable. I was scheduled to minister at the Saturday service before communion (They asked me to do "Were You There") A concert directly following the service was also on the agenda.

One of the highlights of my time there was walking into a room to pray with the elders before the service. As I approached the door, I heard the sweet sound of the worship team and elders praising the Lord while singing an a cappella version of my favorite hymn, "And Can It Be". It was quite a joy to join them in worshipping the Saviour. It was quite an experience.


I've been doing a good amount of travelling recently. I've had opportunities to serve in places like Louisville, Chicago, California, Knoxville and even Hawaii (I know- don't pity me for suffering for the Kingdom in Hawaii :-) All in all, it's been an amazing year. Another recent development is that the Lord has opened the doors for me to do music full time, which is an answer to prayers from years ago that I had all but forgotten about. All in His timing. Right now, I have my sights set on starting seminary in January, if the Lord opens that door. I also have a new cd coming out on October 14th, entitled Storiez. I'll give more details about that in future blog posts.

As far as The Atonement is concerned, I have been absolutely blown away by the response. I wasn't expecting it. One of the more encouraging (and somewhat suprising) things about it is how many people who aren't into Hip-hop who have appreciated the album. It serves to demonstrate how God's truth can transcend musical style or genre. I praise God for giving me a platform to communicate His glorious truths! I certainly don't deserve it. For those who have been edified by the album, I am still working on a listener's guide, which basically breaks down each song from a musical, lyrical and theological standpoint. Also, we are going to be recording a live version of the album (on September 25th in Denton, Texas) with a full jazz band and original new musical arrangements. In providing a different musical backdrop for the lyrics, we're hoping to bring out different aspects of the truths being communicated. If all goes well with the live recording, we'll release it sometime next year, Lord willing.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my ministry. Please forgive me for not being faithful in my blog posts. Quite honestly, it hasn't been a priority for me. I've received messages recently that indicate that there are a few of you out there who are interested in what I have to say and disappointed that I haven't written more. I hope to post more now that I have some more time.

grace and peace,
shai