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February, in the “marketing and retail” industry, is a month that is focused on expressing your affection toward those close to you. Valentine’s Day, Sweetheart Banquets, Love Notes, and assorted “Love-grams” will be the attraction of the masses for the next few weeks. Aisles and windows of stores have been displaying novelty type methods that are the “Perfect” way to say how much you care for that special someone. Heart-shaped candy boxes, florist making “windfall profits”, and even the most insensitive will seek a way to vocalize their love for someone dear.

But what is “Love”? Is it that fluttering in the pit of your stomach that you feel as a young person, when you come in contact with the person of whom you are attracted to? Or is it the ability to heap material gifts on a person to somehow attempt to prove your feelings for them? Over the past few days, I have been studying several passages which have been continuously referenced as “Love” scriptures. A couple of “new” perspectives have been brought to the surface for me to consider, and I present them to you for the same purpose (you may have already been down this road, but I have taken this as a fresh opportunity to rethink this concept).

1 Corinthians 13 is the Love Chapter. But consider the context of the passage, by reading not just chapter 13. Look at the complete body of work and notice that the preceding and following chapters are speaking of some powerful ministry tools and concepts. Then in the last verse of chapter 12 the writer says “You should set your hearts on the best spirituals gifts, but I shall show you a way which surpasses them all.” (Phillips)

He specifies several some of the previous “gifts” in the first three verses, and allows that without Charity (Love) these are immaterial or of no profit. He list a litany of things that Love will or can do, and ultimately says, “Of the three things that will last forever: Faith, Hope, and Love; the most important of these is Love.” (Beck)

At one point in my past, I was more concerned about getting the right sugar confectionery to the right person. Making sure that the candy heart said “Be Mine” to the right person. But then a few hours, or at the most days, later I was right back to the usual routine. I had really overlooked the true love that is eternal. The one that is longsuffering, self-sacrificing, unprovokable, and ever-enduring.

I guess the greatest example of Love we have is spoken of as the willingness to “lay one’s self down for a friend.” In John 3:16 we realize that the “whosoever” spoken of is us. GOD commended His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. It is unexplainable. But at this time it is worthwhile to stop and reconsider the love of GOD toward us.

Zion Music Group is overwhelmed by the responses of our Compilation #40. We have been abundantly blessed by how the songs have been a blessing to those who are touched by their messages. Included on the Comp are new releases from some of your favorite ZMG artists. Jerry Bennett’s “Oil And The Wine” is a powerful expression of the ministry of restoration. The Gardner’s song “Great Big God” articulates the AWESOME power of the GOD that we serve. The Tim Thomas Trio serves up a single titled “Bye Bye” that reminds us of His eminent return. For the “Quartet lovers” who like those strong worship ballads, Stateline has delivered a single that is reminiscent of the classics of recent years. “I Can Pray” will draw you into the Throne Room of GOD during your personal devotions. And the most exciting thing about these songs that I have mentioned is that they are only one track off of the recording projects by these artist that are filled with more great Gospel messages.

Also on the Comp are singles by The Dunaways and The McGruders, which will be loved by their many fans and followers. There are also offerings by new artist with fresh sounds and songs. Marty McMillin, Christy Ballestero, Myles Young, and Joni Ayn Clark are the kind of talent that will stop you in your tracks and make you take notice.

Great things are happening at Zion Music Group. This is already projecting as our best year ever. Oak Valley Studios are producing new projects weekly on major artists which you will be blessed by in the near future. On nearly a daily basis, we receive calls from seasoned performers and also beginning ministries who are seeking production assistance for moving their music to the next level. We are not looking to mass produce recordings with strictly our eye on the “bottom line” profit margin. But as a ministry, we desire to help you attain every amount of successful performance opportunity from your investment. Please call on our staff for a consultation before you embark on this very important aspect of your musical ministry.

Look for musical performances in regional locations from many of our artists, some of which will combine several in the same presentations. This will allow you to be blessed by multiple groups on the same “card”.

We look forward to more exciting opportunities in the near future. Our prayers are continuing for you in your pursuit of the Will of GOD for your life. We know He has a good plan for each of us. We ask that you will remember us in your seasons of prayer. We sincerely desire to do exactly what He has called us to do.

We welcome onto the Zion Music Group Team two new members. They will make the administration and promotion of our music more accessible to you. Melinda Hand is our National Radio Promotions Coordinator. She does a fantastic job, and knows what you like to hear. If you have any needs or suggestions concerning radio singles, Melinda welcomes your input. Melinda, we say welcome to the Team. And in every organization there is that one person who is the “Catch-All”. Meet Noel Walters. Noel is adept at so many things; it is really hard to list his areas of strengths. He is the voice that you will be greeted by when you call the Nashville offices. Noel, we say welcome to the Team. These two dedicated Christians will be intricate parts of what will be the “new” Zion Music Group of 2007. Come join in on the fun with us. Until next time, we remain – In HIS Service.

Eric McGruder
Zion Music Group
http://www.zionmusic.com

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