Grace and Gratitude Posted May 04, 2022 By JasminPatterson_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need to Know
Life.Church Worship is the worship team from the growing multi-campus Life.Church, led by Pastor Craig Groeschel. Life.Church, which is known for using creativity and media to spread the gospel online and at its physical church locations across the U.S., is also serving the body of Christ by writing solid songs of worship for the Church. The collective has released Grace Upon Grace as a follow-up to their 2019 album, God So Good.
Speaking about the project, Life.Church worship leader, Stephen Cole, told media website Movie Guide that the songs were written as prayers people can sing to God. He said that the focus was on two themes: freedom and grace. During an Instragram Live, Life.Church Worship members revealed that the album was recorded live at Life.Church weekend church services.
What It Sounds Like
Fitting for its theme of grace, this album is uplifting from start to finish. The music is bright and energetic and the lyrics inspiring and hopeful. On this album, Life.Church worship, maintains a modern sound while keeping the feel of corporate worship. The album features co-writes with beloved worship leaders and songwriters Matt Redman ("Finished Work of Christ") and Matt Maher ("Inheritance").
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
Each song on Grace Upon Grace highlights aspects of what God has done for us because of His grace. The songs are prayers of gratitude, celebration, and remembrance of the love, joy, freedom, and spiritual inheritance we have in Christ. From title track, "Grace Upon Grace:" You wash away my guilt and make me clean/Revealing what you meant for me to be/Mercy wrecked my heart now I can see/Your love restoring every part of me/Grace upon grace upon grace/You cover us with/Grace upon grace upon grace
Best Song On The Record
"Inheritance" wins for best song. Each line walks through key biblical truths about the saving work of Jesus and its impact on our lives. It's a beautiful snapshot of the gospel that's rich in theology and packaged in an engaging, singable worship song to God. Co-writer, contemporary singer Matt Maher, is the lead vocalist on the song. His passionate heart as a worshipper draws the listener in to worship passionately as well.
Final Word
I've followed Life.Church and Life.Church Worship for several years now. Throughout their time in ministry, they continue to grow as worshippers and songwriters who are not only leading their own church in praise of God but leading the entire body of Christ. Grace Upon Grace will refocus your heart on the simplicity of the gospel and help you articulate your gratitude to God.
