Bryan Olesen takes us behind the songs of Casting Pearls national debut release, "Casting Pearls".
Weighted
Sometimes I feel defeated and like I'm just existing, which means I'm missing out on a lot of what life has to offer. Having salvation is obviously wonderful, but this is a song that says we shouldn't stop there. Let's not dwell on the guilt of past and the fact that we're fallen. Let's put the focus on the new life we've been given, and the fact that there's a God who loves us. There's abundant life out there that a lot of Christians do't live out because they haven't dropped the weight of the past that's been lifted by Christ.
Wastin' Time
There is something in man that believes there is a God, but we have developed our own paths to God. The chorus of this song screams that there is nothing we can do to save our lives. This is the beauty of salvation. We are helpless without God's love. But He has shown His love for us. We are called to believe in what Christ has done for us on the cross. It's a simple and wonderful truth.
Alright
This song talks about never forgetting what you have in Christ. It's a light-hearted way of reminding people that it's "going to be alright." Even if we are stuck in traffic or feel let down by someone, everything is going to be fine. If there's rain falling from the sky or the sunshine is bright, we've got a lot to be thankful for.
Whole World In His Hands
Tim Hughes wrote this song but I thought it was fitting for Casting Pearls, and I've becoem pretty attached to it. I've been attached to that title ever since I was a little kid, and I think the lyrics are very universal.
All About Love
I co-wrote this one with Mark Heimermann (dc talk). It's a fun rock song that focuses on the different perspectives of someone eagerly wanting to share their faith. No matter what method someone uses to share God's truth, it has to be "all about love" because that is the foundation of our faith.
Focus
The initial inspiration came from our drummer. He lost his father last November, though the song is not specifically about that situation. It's about going through a traumatic time. It's about reaching that point of desperation and calling out to God for His comfort, peace and love. That's when we need to be reminded of all His promises.