Valentine Song

Click above to listen to a portion of For Such a Time as This as you read, from the new album Climb to the Sky. Visit climbtothesky.com for links to this new album, music video, CD, MP3 Album, Sheet Music, Spotify, iTunes, and Amazon.

Have you ever asked yourself, “How can I expand my Valentine influence?”

This idea was revealed to me recently, when the story of Esther was viewed with a perspective of not wasting our influence. The famous verse from her story is at the bottom of this post, and inspired this piece of music. As you are listening, take a moment and ask God to help you notice “divine appointments” on this Valentine’s Day 2017. These will offer opportunities for you to expand your influence. Here is how and why this idea has inspired me to keep alert today, and in the days ahead…

Instead of striving to grow my influence, or comparing my influence with others, this idea focuses on making the most of every opportunity. What if I am watching to notice “for such a time as this” moments, when I can expand my influence? This Valentine’s Day, try looking beyond your closest loved ones (spouse, children, family, friends, etc.) to share love, kindness, encouragement, or a smile with others. This will expand your influence and is likely to increase your joy at the same time.

Just yesterday my morning was “interrupted” by a phone call from friends I had not seen in a long time. As they shared their stories to catch me up on their life, I expanded this moment by listening well, acknowledging their struggles, and encouraging them. Immediately following this I had to resolve a missing part with an employee at a retail store. His customer service was outstanding, and I took a few extra moments to praise him. A few minutes later as I ordered coffee and interacted with the barista, I was able to compliment him, smile, and lift him up for his excellent work. I hope these examples s inspire you to expand your Valentine influence today! Every opportunity is precious to God, and none of them are “small” in His eyes.

Won’t you join me in sharing some love a little beyond your comfort zone today?

“And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” — Esther 4:14 (NIV)

Throughout January I was composing and recording seven new songs for the 2013 album Open Spaces, coming in August-September. This kept me from sharing new blog posts with the written word, but now I am back and will be posting throughout 2013.

Things don’t usually happen this fast, but in a matter of hours over the past week, a new Valentine love song, Pure Fountain, was inspired by Song of Solomon, Chapter 4. These piano meditations express the poetic words of the Lover to the Beloved, and birthed a new MP3 single and music video to share for Valentine’s 2013. You can listen to a 60-second sample here and also enjoy listening and viewing the brand new music video below. I hope you enjoy!