We led the song “My Hope” yesterday from the upcoming “Stand Firm” project. This fun bluegrass tune gets so rowdy I felt the need for both a banjo and a harmonica! The track is filled with mandolin, cowbell, and about anything else we could find.
The song started with 1 Peter 3:13-17 as we studied through 1 Peter.
The Scripture
13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.
Verse 15 was our rallying point for the song. “You are set apart, here in my heart, come what may, still I will say You are my hope.”
Arrangement
While bluegrass tunes are traditionally songs based on a 1, 4, 5 chord structure, we tried to add a few color chords. We made the verse a walk-up system of chords with accidentals. The chorus served as a walk down. The bridge allowed for some chords with accidental notes that allowed for some vocal swells and fun melodic runs.
Ted Collins and Tracey Sutley sang lead on this song. Both of them have such strong voices that shine in this type of genre. They add control and flair to the song.
We are releasing the live worship album on January 26th, until then though, you can listen to the recording of it from last Sunday at church. You can view it here around the 18-minute mark.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
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