Dear friends, fans, countrymen,
We need some help in deciding on designs for the new Matt Papa T-shirts.
So, take a look, and leave a comment on which style or color you like.
Ex. "I like DWYL in white and the middle MATTPAPA shirt"
We value your opinion so let us know!
-The Matt Papa Team
3.10.2010
2.06.2010
FEB 2010 UPDATE
Hey friends-
Hope you are all very blessed!!! Here's an update:
INDIA:
On January 3rd of this year, I traveled with several other musicians and songwriters over to Mumbai, India to share Jesus with those precious people and to song-write. We saw many, many people come to Jesus for the first time! It was incredible. I would love to share a couple life-changing stories with you from the trip:
1. I was teamed up one day with a youth pastor from TX named Garrett, and we were sharing Jesus with a handful of folks in a home in the slums. Amazingly and sadly, many of homes we went into in the slums were FAR more hospitable than homes here in the states, despite the homes being about the size of a mini-van. Such was the case with this home. Precious people. We were sharing the story of the gospel, and throughout the entire story, one lady was bawling her eyes out. We were curious, but kept sharing. Eventually, we were so eager to know what was going on, we got our translator to just stop and ask her. He asked her. She spoke back to him. He chuckles. Laughing hard. Really hard. Even MORE intrigued now, we asked our translator, "what did she say to you?". He said to me, "The woman told me that she had a dream very recently that someone was in her home talking to her about some person who lived a long time ago named Jesus Christ. That person looked just like you" We were all FLOORED. Glory be to God!!! If you are doubting it, Jesus IS still definitely alive, well, and working in the world today.
2. On a train one day heading to a ministry site, I had a conversation that I will NEVER forget. His name was Ajay and he was probably around 22 years old. He had a red dot painted on his forehead, so I asked him what it meant. He said that he put it there because He had said his prayers to God that day (Ajay is of the Hindu faith). That was an obvious open door from the LORD to begin talking about the one true God. I asked him if he has ever heard of Jesus. He said yes. I asked him what he knew about Jesus. He said, "nothing". (Brothers and sisters there are MILLIONS of others just like Ajay in the world today, and apart from knowing Jesus they will perish. We must GO!!!) So I told him The Story. I started out at creation, talked about the fall, about sin, and about Jesus being born of a virgin. Went through the whole thing. Then, I'll never forget what happened next. I told Ajay that Jesus died on a cross for his sins. He was brutally beaten and executed so that he could be forgiven. Then I told him, "but 3 days later, Jesus rose again".
I will never forget the expression on Ajay's face. You would've thought someone just told him he won the 5 million dollars and free Chick-fil-a for the rest of his life (okay, so he's probably never heard of Chick-fil-a, but I would be real excited about that)! It was the most beautiful, child-like expression of wonder and faith I have ever seen. Then he said two words I will never forget (in a very cool indian accent). Ajay said, "It's true?!?". Never in my life have I encountered a more appropriate response to the resurrection and the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was AMAZED! And in that moment, as tears filled my eyes, and as religious callouses were breaking off of my heart like chains, I had the privilege of telling Ajay, "yes! it's true Ajay!!! it's true." Ajay didn't pray a "sinner's prayer" in that moment, but it sure looked like faith more than anything I have ever seen.
Brothers and sisters, who hear the gospel everyday, may we be PERPETUALLY MESMERIZED with the story of Jesus Christ. May we remind ourselves every day that IT IS TRUE. So walking the streets of Mumbai that day, the LORD gave me a song called "it's true". I hope you get to hear it soon.
ORPHANAGE:
So I am SUPER STOKED to tell you about this next thing. Through a series of events and things that the LORD has laid on my heart, we are going to be building an orphanage this year in the nation of India! God has given me a vision, based on James 1:27, to partner with Him in seeing 127 of these homes built across the world, Lord willing. Essentially, the vision is to create local church based and self-sustaining communities of people caring for widows caring for orphans. It is our attempt to live James 1:27. THIS SPECIFIC HOUSE, which I cannot give the exact location of due to security reasons, will be led and pastored by a precious brother in Christ named Mukesh. (I can tell you that the orphanage will be located in one of the poorest states in India.) After much prayer and research as to WHO we should partner with in building our first orphanage, the Lord connected me with Mukesh, a 29 year old pastor in India, WHO HAD BEEN GIVEN THE SAME EXACT VISION FROM GOD! It has been Mukesh's dream for so long to have a place for the hungry, poor, and crippled children of India to have a place to cared for and discipled. Now, by God's grace, his dream is becoming reality! He is a trustworthy brother and a powerful man of God. The ministry that Mukesh will have there will not only be an orphanage.....it will be a church, a school, and a home for widows....offering basic medical supplies and food for the community. A multi-purpose building is currently in the works. I AM SO STOKED!!! This place, Lord willing, is gonna turn that place UPSIDE DOWN for Jesus!! I cannot describe to you how excited I am, and how VAST the NEED is there. So many people without Jesus, without hope, without food, without health, and without homes. In the area where the orphanage will be, the gospel is virtually nonexistent. The WEALTHIEST people there do not have electricity. The homes that they live in are heaps of garbage. Children who are low in the caste system are purposefully physically deformed and mistreated. They need a home. They need Jesus. If we can reach the children with the gospel, we will reach the parents and the community. Until the multi-purpose building can be built, Mukesh and his wife are taking 5 (true) orphan children into their own home to care for them. This is a testimony to Mukesh's faith and deep burden for this place and these people.
For the time being, we are being assisted by an organization called Net India Ministries (since I have never built an orphanage before!! :). I would love for you to give toward this incredible place! The cool thing is, since the orphanage is essentially just me and mukesh, there are no overhead costs involved, so you can KNOW that all of your donation will go to this house!!! And since Net India has been so gracious to help us, you can also know that your donation will be a tax-deductable gift. In fact, you could be as specific as you like. If you would like to purchase food for the children, books, beds, toys, just tell us and we will make that happen. If you are interested in making a financial contribution, or if you have ANY questions about the orphanage, please send me and email (matt@mattpapa.com). I would love to talk with you about it!!! Glory be to God!
SPRING DATES:
The spring traveling has begun and it has already been wonderful and fruitful for the kingdom. Having Phil, and new additions Zach and Ben, on the road is such a blessing. They love Jesus!!! We are currently in our 3rd weekend and we have many more to come. Just last night, we saw 25 students accept Christ. We are so blessed to get to do what we do, and we hope to get to see YOU sometime this spring!
OPEN HANDS:
Praise the Lord, "Open Hands" has been really successful lately on Christian radio! Call your local station and request this song!!! The Lord is using it.
COMING ALBUMS:
Lastly, I wanted to let you know about future albums. I will be going into the studio in April (Lord willing) to record another "Scripture Songs" CD, which I am very excited about (will release in may or june of this year).....and this FALL I will be heading into the studio to record another full-length, full-blown, studio album (Lord willing to be released SPRING 2011). I've been writing a lot lately, so please pray for the Lord's anointing on these songs.
Well that's all for now. I can't say thanks enough for all of your support and encouragement over the years!!! I could not do this without it. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
PEACE!!!
Matt
Hope you are all very blessed!!! Here's an update:
INDIA:
On January 3rd of this year, I traveled with several other musicians and songwriters over to Mumbai, India to share Jesus with those precious people and to song-write. We saw many, many people come to Jesus for the first time! It was incredible. I would love to share a couple life-changing stories with you from the trip:
1. I was teamed up one day with a youth pastor from TX named Garrett, and we were sharing Jesus with a handful of folks in a home in the slums. Amazingly and sadly, many of homes we went into in the slums were FAR more hospitable than homes here in the states, despite the homes being about the size of a mini-van. Such was the case with this home. Precious people. We were sharing the story of the gospel, and throughout the entire story, one lady was bawling her eyes out. We were curious, but kept sharing. Eventually, we were so eager to know what was going on, we got our translator to just stop and ask her. He asked her. She spoke back to him. He chuckles. Laughing hard. Really hard. Even MORE intrigued now, we asked our translator, "what did she say to you?". He said to me, "The woman told me that she had a dream very recently that someone was in her home talking to her about some person who lived a long time ago named Jesus Christ. That person looked just like you" We were all FLOORED. Glory be to God!!! If you are doubting it, Jesus IS still definitely alive, well, and working in the world today.
2. On a train one day heading to a ministry site, I had a conversation that I will NEVER forget. His name was Ajay and he was probably around 22 years old. He had a red dot painted on his forehead, so I asked him what it meant. He said that he put it there because He had said his prayers to God that day (Ajay is of the Hindu faith). That was an obvious open door from the LORD to begin talking about the one true God. I asked him if he has ever heard of Jesus. He said yes. I asked him what he knew about Jesus. He said, "nothing". (Brothers and sisters there are MILLIONS of others just like Ajay in the world today, and apart from knowing Jesus they will perish. We must GO!!!) So I told him The Story. I started out at creation, talked about the fall, about sin, and about Jesus being born of a virgin. Went through the whole thing. Then, I'll never forget what happened next. I told Ajay that Jesus died on a cross for his sins. He was brutally beaten and executed so that he could be forgiven. Then I told him, "but 3 days later, Jesus rose again".
I will never forget the expression on Ajay's face. You would've thought someone just told him he won the 5 million dollars and free Chick-fil-a for the rest of his life (okay, so he's probably never heard of Chick-fil-a, but I would be real excited about that)! It was the most beautiful, child-like expression of wonder and faith I have ever seen. Then he said two words I will never forget (in a very cool indian accent). Ajay said, "It's true?!?". Never in my life have I encountered a more appropriate response to the resurrection and the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was AMAZED! And in that moment, as tears filled my eyes, and as religious callouses were breaking off of my heart like chains, I had the privilege of telling Ajay, "yes! it's true Ajay!!! it's true." Ajay didn't pray a "sinner's prayer" in that moment, but it sure looked like faith more than anything I have ever seen.
Brothers and sisters, who hear the gospel everyday, may we be PERPETUALLY MESMERIZED with the story of Jesus Christ. May we remind ourselves every day that IT IS TRUE. So walking the streets of Mumbai that day, the LORD gave me a song called "it's true". I hope you get to hear it soon.
ORPHANAGE:
So I am SUPER STOKED to tell you about this next thing. Through a series of events and things that the LORD has laid on my heart, we are going to be building an orphanage this year in the nation of India! God has given me a vision, based on James 1:27, to partner with Him in seeing 127 of these homes built across the world, Lord willing. Essentially, the vision is to create local church based and self-sustaining communities of people caring for widows caring for orphans. It is our attempt to live James 1:27. THIS SPECIFIC HOUSE, which I cannot give the exact location of due to security reasons, will be led and pastored by a precious brother in Christ named Mukesh. (I can tell you that the orphanage will be located in one of the poorest states in India.) After much prayer and research as to WHO we should partner with in building our first orphanage, the Lord connected me with Mukesh, a 29 year old pastor in India, WHO HAD BEEN GIVEN THE SAME EXACT VISION FROM GOD! It has been Mukesh's dream for so long to have a place for the hungry, poor, and crippled children of India to have a place to cared for and discipled. Now, by God's grace, his dream is becoming reality! He is a trustworthy brother and a powerful man of God. The ministry that Mukesh will have there will not only be an orphanage.....it will be a church, a school, and a home for widows....offering basic medical supplies and food for the community. A multi-purpose building is currently in the works. I AM SO STOKED!!! This place, Lord willing, is gonna turn that place UPSIDE DOWN for Jesus!! I cannot describe to you how excited I am, and how VAST the NEED is there. So many people without Jesus, without hope, without food, without health, and without homes. In the area where the orphanage will be, the gospel is virtually nonexistent. The WEALTHIEST people there do not have electricity. The homes that they live in are heaps of garbage. Children who are low in the caste system are purposefully physically deformed and mistreated. They need a home. They need Jesus. If we can reach the children with the gospel, we will reach the parents and the community. Until the multi-purpose building can be built, Mukesh and his wife are taking 5 (true) orphan children into their own home to care for them. This is a testimony to Mukesh's faith and deep burden for this place and these people.
For the time being, we are being assisted by an organization called Net India Ministries (since I have never built an orphanage before!! :). I would love for you to give toward this incredible place! The cool thing is, since the orphanage is essentially just me and mukesh, there are no overhead costs involved, so you can KNOW that all of your donation will go to this house!!! And since Net India has been so gracious to help us, you can also know that your donation will be a tax-deductable gift. In fact, you could be as specific as you like. If you would like to purchase food for the children, books, beds, toys, just tell us and we will make that happen. If you are interested in making a financial contribution, or if you have ANY questions about the orphanage, please send me and email (matt@mattpapa.com). I would love to talk with you about it!!! Glory be to God!
SPRING DATES:
The spring traveling has begun and it has already been wonderful and fruitful for the kingdom. Having Phil, and new additions Zach and Ben, on the road is such a blessing. They love Jesus!!! We are currently in our 3rd weekend and we have many more to come. Just last night, we saw 25 students accept Christ. We are so blessed to get to do what we do, and we hope to get to see YOU sometime this spring!
OPEN HANDS:
Praise the Lord, "Open Hands" has been really successful lately on Christian radio! Call your local station and request this song!!! The Lord is using it.
COMING ALBUMS:
Lastly, I wanted to let you know about future albums. I will be going into the studio in April (Lord willing) to record another "Scripture Songs" CD, which I am very excited about (will release in may or june of this year).....and this FALL I will be heading into the studio to record another full-length, full-blown, studio album (Lord willing to be released SPRING 2011). I've been writing a lot lately, so please pray for the Lord's anointing on these songs.
Well that's all for now. I can't say thanks enough for all of your support and encouragement over the years!!! I could not do this without it. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
PEACE!!!
Matt
11.19.2009
9.28.2009
Join In the Singing
Hope everyone is enjoying Matt’s single, Open Hands. The time has come for you to join in the singing, and we’re makin’ it easy for you. FREE lead sheet with chord charts is now available by emailing info@centricitymusic.com Please pass it along to your worship leader, and let us know if your church adds the song. How fantastic would it be to have all 50 states singing “I surrender all I am with open hands, with open hands.”
9.23.2009
Thoughts on "SEE YOU AT THE POLE"
What an incredible thing.....3 million students turning out to pray for their campuses and their nation!!! What a blessing and I PRAISE GOD FOR IT....but I wonder....what if this wasn't just a one day event? I think too often Christian's rely on "events" to feed their faith instead of the CONTINUAL work of the Holy Spirit, the Word, and prayer. It's much easier for others to feed us than for us to feed ourselves....easy when something is chosen for us rather than us choosing something for ourselves. WHAT IF STUDENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY DID "SEE YOU AT THE POLE" EVERYDAY? We would see revival in this nation I am sure of it!!! And not only that, but it would foster a mentality in students that they are not just students but CAMPUS MISSIONARIES....MISSIONARIES that happen to be students, meeting daily for prayer for the salvation of their campus. What if our Christianity wasn't driven by events, but by a REAL desire to see people come to Jesus? What would that look like? I think it MIGHT look like a "see you at the pole" EVERYDAY - passionate, CONTINUAL prayer that the world would see and say, "this is NOT an event".
9.14.2009
DAYSTAR AND TBN
Hey friends....just a heads up that I will be on Daystar and TBN later this month talking about the new album and singing open hands. Tune in!!! who thinks i should sing "woe to you"?
8.19.2009
Let's Pray
Brothers and Sisters...
Hello all! I hope you are doing fabulously well today. Just wanted to send this little note out to you to remind you that Your Kingdom Come releases nationwide into stores in ONE WEEK!!! Next Tuesday, August 25th, it will be put onto the shelves, so I wanted to send this email to ask you to PRAY....NOT that this album would sell big or be the greatest thing to ever hit the Christian music world. Please don't pray that. But pray with me that God would use this album to fuel the great commission....to make His Son and His glory known among all nations. His name, His renown, all over town, all over this world.....
It's was PRAYER that started this journey.
In the fall of 2007 the LORD began laying new songs, dreams, and purpose on my heart....it was heavy and it was different. As I prayed for His heart, God began breaking my heart for the lost and the last more then ever before. So I spent some time writing and decided to head to the studio. Inspired by the late Keith Green, I made it my goal for this album that for EVERY HOUR we were recording in the studio, I wanted SOMEONE to be PRAYING. Why? Jesus said "Apart from Me, you can do NOTHING!" That's life changing for me. That means no matter how great the songs, the music, or the playing is, without Jesus it's ALL worthless! So, desiring this record to be doused with prayer, I began emailing many of you, making my FEEBLE attempts to ORGANIZE (not my strong point) and schedule a team of prayer warriors for "Your Kingdom Come". I made an excel spreadsheet and plugged in hundreds of names and times. It took a lot of work. So many of you were faithful, willing, and ready to pray for this CD and you had not the faintest clue of how it would sound. But you prayed. Every hour you prayed. Many of you prayed for hours. And you know we hit some bumps in the road, but by God's grace and the power of prayer, we got a record out of it.
It's been PRAYER that started this journey, PRAYER that got us through, and I want it to be PRAYER that sends this thing out to be used for the LORD and for His Kingdom.
I believe that prayer is a weapon more powerful than any force in this world. Here's what else I believe: I believe that no matter how good the "marketing" for this album is, no matter what the music on this album is like, and no matter even how many copies of this album get sold....that GOD DETERMINES THE COURSE, THE EFFECT, AND THE FRUIT THAT THIS ALBUM WILL HAVE. So let's pray!!! I invite you to fast and pray with me on this tuesday the 25th of August that the LORD WOULD USE THIS ALBUM FOR HIS KINGDOM AND GLORY AMONG THE NATIONS. Believe with me that God can take this piece of plastic and make it into a weapon that strikes down the enemy and makes him fall from heaven like lightning.
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him."
1 John 5:14-15
May GOD get ALL the glory-
Matt
Hello all! I hope you are doing fabulously well today. Just wanted to send this little note out to you to remind you that Your Kingdom Come releases nationwide into stores in ONE WEEK!!! Next Tuesday, August 25th, it will be put onto the shelves, so I wanted to send this email to ask you to PRAY....NOT that this album would sell big or be the greatest thing to ever hit the Christian music world. Please don't pray that. But pray with me that God would use this album to fuel the great commission....to make His Son and His glory known among all nations. His name, His renown, all over town, all over this world.....
It's was PRAYER that started this journey.
In the fall of 2007 the LORD began laying new songs, dreams, and purpose on my heart....it was heavy and it was different. As I prayed for His heart, God began breaking my heart for the lost and the last more then ever before. So I spent some time writing and decided to head to the studio. Inspired by the late Keith Green, I made it my goal for this album that for EVERY HOUR we were recording in the studio, I wanted SOMEONE to be PRAYING. Why? Jesus said "Apart from Me, you can do NOTHING!" That's life changing for me. That means no matter how great the songs, the music, or the playing is, without Jesus it's ALL worthless! So, desiring this record to be doused with prayer, I began emailing many of you, making my FEEBLE attempts to ORGANIZE (not my strong point) and schedule a team of prayer warriors for "Your Kingdom Come". I made an excel spreadsheet and plugged in hundreds of names and times. It took a lot of work. So many of you were faithful, willing, and ready to pray for this CD and you had not the faintest clue of how it would sound. But you prayed. Every hour you prayed. Many of you prayed for hours. And you know we hit some bumps in the road, but by God's grace and the power of prayer, we got a record out of it.
It's been PRAYER that started this journey, PRAYER that got us through, and I want it to be PRAYER that sends this thing out to be used for the LORD and for His Kingdom.
I believe that prayer is a weapon more powerful than any force in this world. Here's what else I believe: I believe that no matter how good the "marketing" for this album is, no matter what the music on this album is like, and no matter even how many copies of this album get sold....that GOD DETERMINES THE COURSE, THE EFFECT, AND THE FRUIT THAT THIS ALBUM WILL HAVE. So let's pray!!! I invite you to fast and pray with me on this tuesday the 25th of August that the LORD WOULD USE THIS ALBUM FOR HIS KINGDOM AND GLORY AMONG THE NATIONS. Believe with me that God can take this piece of plastic and make it into a weapon that strikes down the enemy and makes him fall from heaven like lightning.
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him."
1 John 5:14-15
May GOD get ALL the glory-
Matt
8.18.2009
FRONT PAGE OF iTUNES CHRISTIAN!
Your Kingdom Come is FEATURED on the front page of iTunes Christian music page!!! Praise GOD!!!
8.14.2009
CONTEST!!!!
Want to win a FREE concert/party with Matt???? http://jesusfreakhideout.com/contests/contest2.aspx
8.10.2009
Wednesday night...
Hey GA friends....
We're playing in Villa Rica on Wednesday night at Midway Baptist Church. Come hang with us!!!
matt
We're playing in Villa Rica on Wednesday night at Midway Baptist Church. Come hang with us!!!
matt
8.07.2009
WELCOME!!!
Welcome to the new site. I heart Centricity Music! Enjoy and stay tuned for lyrics, chords, media, and goodies. blessings-
matt
matt
8.04.2009
The Mission
Every tribe, tongue, and nation. Gathered before His throne…singing His praise.
Rev 5:9-14
Whoever calls His name will be there. But how will they call His name if they never hear it?
Rom 10:13-14
God’s heart is breaking for those who don’t know The Way.
1 Tim 2:4
He has placed that heart in ever true believer, and out of that heart our mouths must speak.
2 Cor 5:20
The gospel will be preached in every nation, and then the end will come.
Matt 24:14
But how will they preach unless they are sent?
Rom 10:15
It is up to us. We must go.
Matt 28:19
Rev 5:9-14
Whoever calls His name will be there. But how will they call His name if they never hear it?
Rom 10:13-14
God’s heart is breaking for those who don’t know The Way.
1 Tim 2:4
He has placed that heart in ever true believer, and out of that heart our mouths must speak.
2 Cor 5:20
The gospel will be preached in every nation, and then the end will come.
Matt 24:14
But how will they preach unless they are sent?
Rom 10:15
It is up to us. We must go.
Matt 28:19
7.31.2009
End of Summer news...
Hi friends!
Hope you are doin swell. Just wanted to give you a BRIEF update (I think I REALLY will be brief this time).
The summer was really incredible. Thank you SO MUCH for all your prayers. The older I get the more I'm realizing that I am far more a product of prayer than of my own petty efforts or abilities. God just does too many things in spite of me. Some really genuine ministry took place this summer: Hundreds began a relationship with Christ, MANY called to missions and ministry, and tons of students that I personally spoke with were set free from hurt, unforgiveness, bitterness, and addictions. Go God!!!
The first single from YKC called "Open Hands" was by far our biggest song of the summer...the song that people continue to say ministers to them. Well I've got news for ya....you can buy the song NOW on iTunes!!! Go get it and be blessed!!!
Classes begin very soon. Very excited about the challenge to my mind and heart. More updates soon.
Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. (Eph 6:23-24)
Matt
Hope you are doin swell. Just wanted to give you a BRIEF update (I think I REALLY will be brief this time).
The summer was really incredible. Thank you SO MUCH for all your prayers. The older I get the more I'm realizing that I am far more a product of prayer than of my own petty efforts or abilities. God just does too many things in spite of me. Some really genuine ministry took place this summer: Hundreds began a relationship with Christ, MANY called to missions and ministry, and tons of students that I personally spoke with were set free from hurt, unforgiveness, bitterness, and addictions. Go God!!!
The first single from YKC called "Open Hands" was by far our biggest song of the summer...the song that people continue to say ministers to them. Well I've got news for ya....you can buy the song NOW on iTunes!!! Go get it and be blessed!!!
Classes begin very soon. Very excited about the challenge to my mind and heart. More updates soon.
Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. (Eph 6:23-24)
Matt
7.17.2009
"Open Hands" Lyrics and Chord Chart
"Open Hands" lyrics and chord chart can be found at www.mattpapa.com/openhands
6.13.2009
June 2009 UPDATE
Hi friends!!!
It's been a while since I've written update...LOTS of changes happening 'round here, and yet God is NEVER-changing and always faithful! There are so many things to praise HIM for, but I will try to be BRIEF (and yet most of you know I am terrible at that :)
1. I am a DAD! How crazy is that!!! Her name is Paisley and she is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. We are so blessed...she is healthy and Lauren is healthy. You can check out my facebook if you want to see pictures. Please pray that she will come to know JESUS and that we would be Godly parents to her!!!
2. My wife and I (and little Paisley) now live in North Carolina where I will be starting school this fall at Southeastern Seminary. I am REALLY stoked and ready for the mental and spiritual challenge. My desire is that my music, more than ever before, would be filled with God's Word and that He would prepare us for whatever He has in store for the future. We will still be ministering on the weekends, during the summer, and wherever the LORD opens doors. So please pray for that.
3. For those of you who have followed our ministry for a while, you will remember Phil Smith and Jon Huff who used to travel with us and play drums and bass. Well, I am excited to say that they are back! They will be attending school with me at Southeastern and also traveling. Totally a God-thing how it all worked out.
4. I have just recently begun a relationship with Centricity Music, a Christ-centered label who I am proud to work with. They will be releasing the NEW "Your Kingdom Come" into stores on August 18th. The new version of the album will have 3 BRAND SPANKIN NEW songs on it that I promise you will love! You can check out the first single on our mypace.....it's called "Open Hands". The LORD has already been using the song powerfully this summer at camps. So if you can please call your local radio station and request the song! Also pray that God would take this album....this 5 loaves and 2 fish....and touch it and bless it to feed people for the sake of His Kingdom and His mission on the earth!
5. In about 2 weeks, we will release a BRAND NEW CD called "Scripture Songs and Hymns". I am really excited about it.....it's SIMPLE, yet profound - b/c the songs are HEAVY on Scripture. The hymns on it are original, and I think you will find the whole CD to be refreshing as you let the scriptures soak into your heart and mind. Great for students and adults alike....check it out!!!!!
6. Many of you know about our partnership with Compassion, well we have begun a similar relationship with a company called ONE VERSE. They are gnarly. The purpose of their organization is to get the Scripture into EVERY language in THIS GENERATION! There are over 2,000 languages that don't have the BIBLE in there heart language!!! That is a PROBLEM. Check out their site at oneverse.org and be a part of getting God's word to the world.
7. ok, I think I'm done. Stay in touch with us please....and keep us in your prayers. God is doing cool stuff here....and all over this world! Let's partner with HIM in His mission......give our lives away for the sake of the gospel....stop living for status or wealth, but for the glory of Christ and the redemption of this broken world. He's called you to speak. He's called you to go....to love. Will you today?
huge blessings...
Matt Papa
It's been a while since I've written update...LOTS of changes happening 'round here, and yet God is NEVER-changing and always faithful! There are so many things to praise HIM for, but I will try to be BRIEF (and yet most of you know I am terrible at that :)
1. I am a DAD! How crazy is that!!! Her name is Paisley and she is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. We are so blessed...she is healthy and Lauren is healthy. You can check out my facebook if you want to see pictures. Please pray that she will come to know JESUS and that we would be Godly parents to her!!!
2. My wife and I (and little Paisley) now live in North Carolina where I will be starting school this fall at Southeastern Seminary. I am REALLY stoked and ready for the mental and spiritual challenge. My desire is that my music, more than ever before, would be filled with God's Word and that He would prepare us for whatever He has in store for the future. We will still be ministering on the weekends, during the summer, and wherever the LORD opens doors. So please pray for that.
3. For those of you who have followed our ministry for a while, you will remember Phil Smith and Jon Huff who used to travel with us and play drums and bass. Well, I am excited to say that they are back! They will be attending school with me at Southeastern and also traveling. Totally a God-thing how it all worked out.
4. I have just recently begun a relationship with Centricity Music, a Christ-centered label who I am proud to work with. They will be releasing the NEW "Your Kingdom Come" into stores on August 18th. The new version of the album will have 3 BRAND SPANKIN NEW songs on it that I promise you will love! You can check out the first single on our mypace.....it's called "Open Hands". The LORD has already been using the song powerfully this summer at camps. So if you can please call your local radio station and request the song! Also pray that God would take this album....this 5 loaves and 2 fish....and touch it and bless it to feed people for the sake of His Kingdom and His mission on the earth!
5. In about 2 weeks, we will release a BRAND NEW CD called "Scripture Songs and Hymns". I am really excited about it.....it's SIMPLE, yet profound - b/c the songs are HEAVY on Scripture. The hymns on it are original, and I think you will find the whole CD to be refreshing as you let the scriptures soak into your heart and mind. Great for students and adults alike....check it out!!!!!
6. Many of you know about our partnership with Compassion, well we have begun a similar relationship with a company called ONE VERSE. They are gnarly. The purpose of their organization is to get the Scripture into EVERY language in THIS GENERATION! There are over 2,000 languages that don't have the BIBLE in there heart language!!! That is a PROBLEM. Check out their site at oneverse.org and be a part of getting God's word to the world.
7. ok, I think I'm done. Stay in touch with us please....and keep us in your prayers. God is doing cool stuff here....and all over this world! Let's partner with HIM in His mission......give our lives away for the sake of the gospel....stop living for status or wealth, but for the glory of Christ and the redemption of this broken world. He's called you to speak. He's called you to go....to love. Will you today?
huge blessings...
Matt Papa
1.12.2009
"Pray without ceasing"
I love my wife. She is an amazing woman, and we spend a whole lot of time together...especially since she is able to travel with us most of the time. We laugh a lot, talk about Jesus, talk about life, talk about the Georgia Bulldogs, argue a little, talk about ministry, music, food, etc...and all of that interaction generally takes place within the normal course of a day. However there are some times...during the day or during the week...where we need to have a special conversation...a meeting where one of us may say, "Honey (or some other term of endearment), can we talk for a minute?" Then we'll step into a room, have focused conversation for however long it takes...then once we are both satisfied and at a point of peace, we'll continue on with the day.
"Pray without ceasing" (1 Thes 5:17) is a difficult pill to swallow, but if seen through the lens of the above metaphor, it unlocks a powerful truth about RELATIONSHIP with God. A lot of us pray, especially when we need something, but few people "pray without ceasing". Imagine if during my day I never said anything to Lauren, even when she was standing right next to me, or riding with me in the car...that would be pretty awkward!!! Then imagine if out of the blue I said, "hey lauren, we need to talk..." I'm sure she would think, "finally i'm gonna figure out what's going on with him!"
Here is a powerful truth: Prayer is communion with God. Communion with God can take place at any or every moment throughout a day. Focused Prayer, or prayer as we typically perceive it, is like a special conversation. It's like coming to your Father and saying, "Abba, can we talk for a minute?" Then you go to a quiet place, get on your knees, and have focused conversation with Him. But here's the key: that focused time of prayer falls within the context of you talking to God throughout the day...about the weather, about people you love, about decisions, laughing with Him, wrestling with Him, crying with Him, just being His friend. That's what it means to pray without ceasing.
"Pray without ceasing" (1 Thes 5:17) is a difficult pill to swallow, but if seen through the lens of the above metaphor, it unlocks a powerful truth about RELATIONSHIP with God. A lot of us pray, especially when we need something, but few people "pray without ceasing". Imagine if during my day I never said anything to Lauren, even when she was standing right next to me, or riding with me in the car...that would be pretty awkward!!! Then imagine if out of the blue I said, "hey lauren, we need to talk..." I'm sure she would think, "finally i'm gonna figure out what's going on with him!"
Here is a powerful truth: Prayer is communion with God. Communion with God can take place at any or every moment throughout a day. Focused Prayer, or prayer as we typically perceive it, is like a special conversation. It's like coming to your Father and saying, "Abba, can we talk for a minute?" Then you go to a quiet place, get on your knees, and have focused conversation with Him. But here's the key: that focused time of prayer falls within the context of you talking to God throughout the day...about the weather, about people you love, about decisions, laughing with Him, wrestling with Him, crying with Him, just being His friend. That's what it means to pray without ceasing.
12.08.2008
New Site!
Hi everyone....i know....it's been a LONG TIME COMIN....but here's the new site. hope you enjoy and have a blessed holiday season!
matt
matt
10.27.2008
AMMAN!!!
Hi friends. i'm coming to you from amman, jordan today. woke up at 4:30. my sleeping schedule is WACk.
at 5:00 this morning i was startled by the sound of the call to prayer...the islamic city-wide, audibly projected call to prayer. if you have ever heard it, it is a terrible sound....the sound of the praises of a god who is dead....and who brings death....the sound of death it is.
we're going to see PETRA today (not the 90's christian rock band)....the gorgeous place here in JORDAN with TONS of history. google it and learn about it.
well i'm off. grace and peace-
mp
at 5:00 this morning i was startled by the sound of the call to prayer...the islamic city-wide, audibly projected call to prayer. if you have ever heard it, it is a terrible sound....the sound of the praises of a god who is dead....and who brings death....the sound of death it is.
we're going to see PETRA today (not the 90's christian rock band)....the gorgeous place here in JORDAN with TONS of history. google it and learn about it.
well i'm off. grace and peace-
mp
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