My wife, Trina, and I were 13 when we first met. Having recently celebrated our 28 year anniversary, we have been through a LOT together since then! Looking back, we see so clearly how God has guided and protected us throughout our journey. The narrative we have lived up to this point, and God’s faithfulness throughout it, was the inspiration behind our instrumental piano album, “Lighthouse.”

When Trina and I were just newlyweds, we were facing the financial struggles many new couples encounter. Being self-employed, there were times when finances were extremely tight. At one point, facing $500 in bills with only $300 in the bank account, we were forced to place our trust entirely in Jesus, and He supplied our every need! He rescued us then and has many times since, bringing us back to shore. It’s incredible how God makes a way in every stormy sea and in every dark unknown. He truly is our lighthouse, always guiding, protecting, and providing.

There are times when circumstances lead us to a greater posture of reliance on God. When the winds pick up and the water grows choppy, He often calls us to deeper waters requiring greater dependency and faith in Him. Knowledge of my need for God is paramount, and I am constantly learning to depend on Him more. As I do, I am reminded we aren’t trusting our entire lives to just anyone, but to a loving, caring, benevolent Creator who is bigger and more powerful than anything we can imagine.

As I reflected on those difficult seasons of life, the album began to take shape. Halfway through production, I entitled one of the songs “Lighthouse,” and the theme of God’s protection and providence took root. That was also when I incorporated two deeply impactful hymns: “‘Tis So Sweet” speaks of our trust in God’s Word and His promises. It reminds us to place our lives in His capable hands. “Holy, Holy, Holy” so beautifully describes our almighty God — perfect in power, love, and purity.

“Lighthouse” is a perfect companion to our “Quietly” album, as both albums carry a powerfully peaceful ambience and message. And I believe these instrumental albums hold the same anointing as our “Hidden In My Heart” series as every beautiful melody and orchestration conveys the peace that only He can give. His light eclipses the darkness. He illuminates our way and charts the course before us. The same God who set boundaries for the sea guides us gently back to shore, and back to His heart. Just as John 8:12 says, “Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”