Only The Great High Priest
Ive written hundreds of songs over the past 40 years. I love Jesus, the word of God, people and music. I play guitar, bass and sing. Thank you for listening!
My music is about the new life found in Jesus Christ. He is our access to the Father and is worthy of all praise and glory. He has taken our sins away by the selfless sacrifice of His death upon the cross. He is deserving of songs and worship.
The sound of my music is influenced by the delta blues and artists that have followed through the 60s and 70s who have taken this music and written folk, Americana, and Rock n Roll.
Thank you for listening to my songs, and also the collaboration projects, thank you to all who contributed to these songs..
Story behind the song
"The Great High Priest" emerges as a deeply spiritual and uplifting song, eloquently weaving the themes of faith, redemption, and companionship with God through life's trials. Crafted by John Matteson and Richard Shekari, this piece stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and rich acoustic foundation, primarily led by John Matteson's evocative guitar work. The production, guided by Richard Shekari's skillful mix and mastering, encapsulates a sound that is both polished and intimately raw, striking a chord with listeners seeking solace and strength in their spiritual journey.
Verse 1, sung by John, beautifully sets the stage with a narrative of personal struggle and the quest for divine intercession. It highlights the Christian belief in Jesus Christ as an advocate and saviour for humanity, touching on themes of grace and redemption that resonate deeply with believers. The chorus amplifies this message, proclaiming the unique and exalted role of Jesus as the Great High Priest, Prince of Peace, and King of Kings. It's a call to worship and a reminder of the peace and salvation found in Him.
Richard takes the lead in Verse 2, extending a hand of fellowship and encouragement to listeners. His words echo the communal aspect of faith, urging believers to support one another and to persistently seek God amidst life's challenges. This verse emphasizes the importance of community and mutual upliftment within the faith journey, encouraging a collective trust in the Lord.
The outro serves as a prayerful conclusion, invoking the Holy Trinity and dedicating the song as an offering of praise. This part beautifully encapsulates the song's essenceworship and a desire for spiritual guidance and presence in the believers' lives.
Overall, "The Great High Priest" stands as a testament to faith's power to bridge the divide between the divine and the earthly, offering listeners a musical sanctuary for reflection, worship, and reassurance. Its production values, combined with the earnestness of its lyrics and the warmth of its delivery, make it a poignant addition to contemporary Christian music, likely to be embraced by congregations and individual listeners seeking solace and inspiration in their faith walk.
Lyrics
Only The Great High Priest
Intro:
00:00
Verse One: (John)
00:16
How will I cross this great divide
Between me and the Lord who will come to my side
There is One who took my place
For sin and death I deserve this fate
There is One who pleads my case
Jesus comes along side as I run this race
He lives on I know His word is true
I will trust in His Spirit He can live in you too
CHORUS: (Richard)
00:49.5
Only the Great High Priest can wipe away our tears,
Only the Prince of Peace can restore what time denies.
He is the King of Kings; let's exalt His holy name,
In Him alone is peace found; bring your burdens unto the Lord.
VERSE 2: (Richard)
1:20
Don't give up; set your eyes on the Lord.
When you feel down, you can call on the Lord.
Life isn't easy, brother, I know.
Hold my hand; let's put our trust in the Lord.
Don't give up; set your eyes on the Lord.
When you feel low, you can call on the Lord.
Life ain’t easy, sister, I know.
Hold my hand; let's put our trust in the Lord.
CHORUS: (Richard)
1:52
Only the Great High Priest can wipe away our tears,
Only the Prince of Peace can restore what time denies.
He is the King of Kings; let's exalt His holy name,
In Him alone is peace found; bring your burdens unto the Lord.
Verse 3:
2:24
(Guitar Solo)
Outro:
2:56
Father, we are here to glorify Your name.
Jesus, teach us Your ways, O Lord.
Holy Spirit, arrest our hearts for the Lord.
Dear Lord, take our sacrifice of praise.
Copyright 2024 John Matteson and Richard Shekari
Words: John Matteson and Richard Shekari
Guitar: John Matteson
Mix and Master: Richard Shekari
