As we approach Mother's Day, it's a time to reflect on the special bond between a mother and child. For many, music can play a significant role in fostering a connection with loved ones and God.
In this special Mother's Day feature, we'll hear from the NRT staff about how Christian songs have impacted their lives and relationships with their mothers.
From the powerful lyrics of Bethel Music’s "Goodness of God" to the message of gratitude in Brandon Lake's hit song, "Gratitude," these songs remind us of the unwavering love and support that our mothers provide.
Bethel Music - “Goodness of God”
It isn’t easy to pick just one song. As I thought about it, I think this is one of my favorites. Bethel Music's “Goodness of God” reminds me that He knew me before I took my first breath. He’s omnipresent, so even then, He knew all my life and loves me even so. When I wandered, He stayed right there with me. When I looked for Him, He was there with open arms. When I cried out in anger and frustration, He said in that small voice, “Be still and know that I am God.” He’s the God who sees. He’s the God who provides. He’s the God who goes before and says, “Follow me." This song brings me to thanksgiving, and giving thanks always comes before the miracle or realizing His grace. - Kevin McNeese
Brandon Lake - “Gratitude”
Worship artist Brandon Lake's hit song "Gratitude" has meant a lot to me and my family lately. I first heard it early last year, and it’s held a special place in my heart ever since. When I asked my mom about her favorite Christian song, I wasn't surprised when she told me, "Gratitude."
My mom, Peggy, shared that "the song reminds me that when I’m going through hard times, I need to be thankful for what I have and what God has provided for me."
Through the highs and lows of life, I'm so grateful that my mom has been by my side. Even through hard times, as she spoke about, God has provided for me, often through her. She's been such an encouragement and support in my life, and in the words of Brandon Lake, "I throw up my hands and praise [Jesus] again and again" for my mom. - Grace Chaves
Kari Jobe – “Forever”
After intense deliberation, my mom chose "Forever" by contemporary artist Kari Jobe as her favorite song. The artist has always held a special place in my mom’s heart; this melody's lyrics especially hit home with her. The imagery Kari weaves into the masterful vocal sways is heart-wrenching. The bridge also moves in a special way, with powerful lyrics: "Now death where is your sting/Our resurrected king has rendered you defeated." My mom and I adore church moments where the congregation becomes a choir, declaring this anthem of victory. It’s a favorite in our house, and I plan on playing it on Mother's Day to remind my mom that I know her favorite song and that she is very loved. - Selena Schulz
Downhere – “A Better Way”
My mom's favorite song is "A Better Way" by the rock band Downhere. She heard it in a dream and was awakened by a late-night prank caller. By relying on her fuzzy recollection of the melody, we managed to locate the song and get acquainted with Downhere and their music. Since then, they have been a beloved choice in our family. Over the years, I've introduced my mom to many songs. Her favorite has always been this one. It's an instant attention grabber for her whenever it comes on a playlist—even after discovering many other treasured Downhere songs. - Jonathan Francesco
7eventh Time Down - "Just Say Jesus"
From the first time she heard it, my mom's favorite song is "Just Say Jesus" by contemporary rock band 7eventh Time Down. Growing up, my mom loved listening to worship and alternative rock. She always listened to Christian rock bands like Thousand Foot Krutch, Stellar Kart, Kutless, and Vota. She told me that "Just Say Jesus" stood out to her because of its rock influence but primarily because of its powerful and honest lyrics. She loved that the song didn't "beat around the bush," so to speak, but pointed to Jesus in such a genuine and beautiful way that has touched her so many times. Keep worshipping and rocking out, Mom. - Bradden Ford
Brenda Waters – “Victory”
My mother's (Momma) favorite song is "Victory" by the late gospel great Brenda Waters. This song has minimal instrumentation, which helps to bring out the simple but potent message. "Oooo do it!/Ooooo fix it/Yeah, God's gonna make a way for me/Do it/Victory." It feels like an Old Negro Spiritual, but the message is timeless. My mom has seen her share of dire situations, and she would only make it through God's intervention. She's endured the loss of my father, her brothers, and her parents, but God has always been faithful. Thank you, Brenda, for writing this song. Her legacy and song live on. My mom and many others are grateful. - Dwyane Lacy
Cristy Lane – “One Day At a Time”
My mom loved listening to “One Day At a Time” by Christian and country music veteran Cristy Lane. My mom listened to the 1979 gospel song all the time. Although the song didn't sound pleasant to my brother and me, it's a song that our mother loves. A song that brings her closer to Jesus. A song that boldly speaks the truth: “Yesterday's gone, sweet Jesus/And tomorrow may never be mine/Lord help me today, show me the way/One day at a time.” - Paul Phillips
Assembled from the four corners of North America and many other corners in between, the NRTeam comprises staffers whose energy is equally dispersed towards loving and writing about the music they love.
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