As I’ve been preparing to preach the fifth part of my sermon series on stewardship this Sunday—and the potentially difficult topic of witnessing—I’ve thought about the importance of authenticity. If we are who we say we are, and our faith is what we say it is, how could we not share our faith in some way? I’m not saying I have all the answers on how to do it, but surely bearing witness to the love of Christ starts with authenticity.
In this regard, I’m reminded of the great Swirling Eddies (fronted, incognito, by Daniel Amos leader Terry Scott Taylor) and their tribute to Mr. Authenticity, Billy Graham.
[Click the play button to listen to “Billy Graham,” from the Eddies’ long out-of-print masterpiece Outdoor Elvis. You can find it on eBay here.]
I don’t know about those other guys
There’s somethin’ in the back of their eyes
But Billy, you’re the man
Who don’t use sleight of hand
Ain’t wearin’ no disguise
I love you, Billy
I love the simple things you say
And you never seem to get in the way
No one is quite like you
Compassionate and true
“Just as I am,” I say
I love you, Billy
Hey Brent, good to see the Swirling Eddies reference. I was a DJ in college and I played them all the time. I don’t think I played _Outdoor Elvis_ as much as I did _Let’s Spin!_ I think there was a tune called “Rodeo Drive” and another one, “I’ve Got an Idea.” Also I loved that really short hilarious one called “The Unsuccessful Dutch Missionary.” Thanks for the reminder of a great band.
“I have crossed the great water and come in peace, Kemosabe.”
I still love Daniel Amos and all the related side-projects. Terry Taylor is an unsung musical hero of mine. I even saw the Lost Dogs (heard of them?) at Eddie’s Attic a few months ago. They consist of Terry Taylor, Mike Roe (of the 77’s), and the two guys from the Choir. They rocked.