Bryan Sirchio [e-album] Wise As Serpents, Gentle As A Dove

This recording is actually a newly re-mastered double album, and includes just about every song from Bryan's first two solo recordings (Gentle As A Dove, released in 1989, and Wise As Serpents, released in 1990) -- the only song not included is "Looser Chains." These two recordings were always a double album in Bryan's mind, which is why he chose to take their titles from one verse of scripture, Matt. 10:16. "Gentle As A Dove" focused mostly on personal spirituality and "Wise As Serpents" mostly on social justice. Bryan feels that it's good to bring these together on one recording, because both of these aspects of the Christian life really need to be held together. This recording is a diverse album musically, ranging from some up-tempo acoustic based rock to a simple piano/vocal ballad. The songs are given to such themes as the need for prayer, the strength of gentleness, the need to slow down the pace of life, commitment to family and parenthood in particular, the identity of Jesus,, the need to leave the past behind and press on, the cost of discipleship, and recognizing Jesus in the people of the so-called "Third World." Several of the tracks help Christians reflect on the connections between first world affluence and third world destitution, and challenge those who follow Jesus to ask serious questions about what it means to have more than we need materially in a world in which so many lack the basic necessities for physical survival. This collection also features Bryan's popular and humorous song, "The Perfect Pastor."

Tracks:

Strands In The Web

Nobody For Jesus

Slow Me Down

Wise As Serpents

Yesterday I Saw Jesus

No Success Worth Failing You

Gentle As A Dove

Have You Prayed About It Yet?

A Miracle I Need

Press On

Perfect Pastor

Straight And Narrow Road

Things The Lord Requires

Staring At My Overflowing Plate

If My Soul Should Be Required Tonight

Don't Be Surprised

Born Of Blood And Love

You Are The Christ