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
"I Surrender" is a soul-stirring contemporary Christian song that delves deep into the theme of repentance, redemption, and the transformative power of divine love and mercy. Crafted by the collaborative geniu of John Matteson and Richard Shekari, the song features a rich blend of poignant lyrics, heartfelt vocals, and compelling guitar work that together create a deeply moving worship experience.
The song opens with a verse from John, setting a reflective tone as rain symbolizes the moments of divine contemplation and realization. It speaks to the listener's heart with a powerful narrative of God's unwavering faithfulness, even as one strays. The chorus, a declaration of surrender to Jesus, elevates the song into a worshipful commitment, making it a universal prayer for believers.
Richard's verse complements the opening with its emphasis on personal transformation and the guiding light of Christ. It reinforces the message that it is through Jesus’ sacrifice that one finds the true path away from darkness.
The bridge, sung by John, offers a moment of awe and gratitude towards the Almighty's endless mercy and the ultimate sacrifice of His Son, encapsulating the song's essence of surrender to God's will.
"I Surrender" is more than just a song; it's a spiritual journey, inviting listeners to reflect, repent, and commit their lives to Christ. With its beautiful melody, compelling lyrics, and the heartfelt performance of Matteson and Shekari, the song is poised to touch many hearts, making it a valuable addition to worship sessions and personal moments of prayer. Its timeless message of faith and surrender is sure to resonate with believers around the world, marking it as a landmark release in contemporary Christian music.
Lyrics
I Surrender
As the rain pours down upon my door, I think about my God
How He has been faithful as I ran the other way
He is still knocking will I let Him come inside
Is there room within my heart,
It is for me He died
I surrender to You, now and forever.
Thank You, Jesus; You are the life.
I surrender to You, now and forever.
I’ll praise You, dear Lord; You are, yes, You are the Christ
You shed light, Lord, on my sinful ways,
And led my feet off the path that leads to harm.
You shine bright, Lord; it’s true, You are the way,
I’d be lost without You, Lord, please stay.
I surrender to You, now and forever.
Thank You, Jesus; You are the life.
I surrender to You, now and forever.
I’ll praise You, dear Lord; You are, yes, You are the Christ.
So now I bow before You Father on Your throne
I think of Your great mercy, all the things You have done
And how Your love pours down through the gift of Your Son
Holy, Holy, Holy is my God from above
I surrender to You, now and forever.
Thank You, Jesus; You are the life.
I surrender to You, now and forever.
I’ll praise You, dear Lord; You are, yes, You are the Christ.
Copyright 2024 John Matteson and Richard Shekari
Words: John Matteson and Richard Shekari
Guitar: John Matteson
Mix and Master: Richard Shekari
