Shane & Shane ‘Worship In The Word’

Written by: Celita Diaz-Perillo (Date written: 02/22/2022)

Shane Barnard and Shane Everett, of the contemporary music band, Shane & Shane, have spent the last 20+ years sharing their gifts with all of us, inspiring us to glorify our Lord and Maker, Jesus Christ, in song.

On January 28, 2022, Shane & Shane released their most recent album, Worship In The Word. It will be a “10-episode streamed series”, under the same title.

I recently had a discussion with one of my teens about the Christian music of today. He was disturbed by how much of the music speaks about us, us, us, but how little of it just spends time praising Jesus. Most of it does NOT focus on Him, but rather on the human condition, on our perspective, on our challenges, on our need, but distracts from the actual praise and worship of the One who deserves ALL of our attention.

I found it to be an informative and insightful discussion. I thought a lot about what was said, and I think that is why I appreciate this album so much.

The main focus of these songs is about giving honor to the One who deserves ALL glory, honor, and praise. It encourages people to seek Him, love Him, to see and know Him.

The album is a fantastic way to get people, families, and children praising and worshiping the Lord, while also memorizing scripture. Each song of this album is based on a portion of scripture, and there is no guessing, as each scripture is listed after the song title. That was helpful for me. I was especially impressed with the way the album began.

The song “First Things First” (based on Matthew 6) was the perfect beginning to this album; establishing, with an upbeat and cheerful tune, the importance of surrender and starting off on the right foundation. It paved the way to the rest of the album.

“Yes and Amen” (based on Ephesians 1) felt like the prayer of an appreciative, awed heart just soaking in Jesus’ Presence and His truth. Just glorifying His name, and acknowledging all He has done.

“Holy” (based on 1 Samuel 2:2) is a beautiful flowing of words and music that just pulled me into the worship, together with Shane & Shane and the choir. Even if I didn’t know the words, it didn’t matter. It was awesome. It also included a short piece of an old classic, which I love.

This album, Worship In The Word, reminds me of Psalm 22:3 “The Lord inhabits the praise of His people.” (paraphrased) I sincerely feel that this album will be a blessing to anyone wanting to know Jesus more. It is a way to include more of God’s Word in the day- whether at church, at home, in the car, while working out. The songs will be a sweet, living encouragement and edification; filling the listener with hope and joy.

4/5