Inspired by a t-shirt found in a Guatemala market during a mission trip. This song is a take on the scripture John 3:16 from my personal viewpoint.
Even if your not a Christian you have to admit this song lifts your mood with it’s happy vibe and smooth guitar licks. Listen to it on a challenging day and see if it doesn’t make you feel better.
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Guatemala T-Shirt
During a mission trip when we had some time off, we decided to check out the local market in Antigua, Guatemala. Subsequently, I stumbled on a t-shirt that said “I Am Whosoever.” So, I purchased it and I am wearing the t-shirt in the photo on the left. Although I have long known about the Bible verse John 3:16 as part of my faith nevertheless, I have never seen this phrase presented in such a personal manner.
Accordingly I don’t know why it never occurred to me that this verse applied to me. Until now, I always saw John 3:16 as a verse you share with others so they can know how much God loves them. Additionally I remember looking at that shirt and being moved to gentle tears because it hit me the Bible verse applies to me too. Likewise, “I am Whosoever” because I believe.
John 3:16
In the meantime, you would have to live in some cave, under a rock to not be somewhat familiar with John 3:16. After all, Tim Tebow used to have it under his eyes on the football field during his collegiate career. To clarify if you are not familiar with John 3:16 from the Bible it says:
“For God so loved that world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” ~ John 3:16 – King James Version
I Am Whosoever
Likewise when we returned home from the trip, I casually put the shirt on, and that is when I discovered there is a song in this experience. At the same time I started thinking about what John 3:16 now means to me. After all, I identified as being this “Whosoever.” To illustrate this verse is now deeply personal for me. Again it is no longer just a verse to be shared with others, is a foundational pillar for what I believe.
At the same time thinking back on all of the many mistakes I have made in my life, I found myself humbled at the foot of the Cross. Humbled because despite my sins, failures, and shortcoming, God gave His Son to redeem me if I just believe, which I do. Without a doubt, I know I am not forgotten. Indeed I have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.
Now I am nobody special, one of the least of these. But here is the good news, God’s gift is free for anyone who will receive Him and believe. Consequently, from the freedom that comes in knowing Christ died for our sins, for my sins, I started humming this happy tune in my head. The Lord downloaded the words and this is how “I Am Whosoever,” was born.
Production Notes
Now I love writing and producing music. By the same token, I believe this is one of the things God created me to do. However for this one I wanted a Praise and Worship choral vibe. Primarily, I did most of the vocals but I solicited some help from my wonderful family. Afterwards we were all thrilled with the outcome and this is my first project together with two family members.
In conclusion, special thanks to my talented daughter, the artist Zoey the White Lioness and my husband James who helped with the background vocals. Specifically that rocky tenor voice you hear prominently on the bridge is Zoey.
Lyrics
Verse 1
Here I am again at the foot of the cross
It humbles me ’cause I was one of the lost
Just like the wind I did whatever I pleased
But You’re the Way, Truth and Life
You got a hold of me, ya see
Chorus 1
I am whosoever, I am the least of these
I was that lost sinner
But Your grace has set me free
I am not forgotten
Your blood redeems me
Oh-o, I am – I am – I am – I am
I am whosoever
Verse 2
I believe in John 3:16
Jesus says take a stand come and follow me
You live your life and do whatever you please
Accept the love of God
Open your heart and receive
Chorus 1
I am whosoever, I am the least of these
I was that lost sinner
Your grace has set me free
I am not forgotten
Your blood redeems me
Oh-o, I am – I am – I am – I am
I am whosoever
Bridge
God loves us
He gave us
His one and only Son
That whosoever
Will believe Him
Has everlasting life (repeat)
God’s gift to everyone
Chorus 1
I am whosoever, I am the least of these
I was that lost sinner
But Your grace has set me free
I am not forgotten
Your blood redeems me
Oh-o, I am – I am
Chorus 2
I am whosoever, I am the least of these
I was that lost sinner
The hour I first believed
I am not forgotten
My fears are relieved
O-o-oh, I am – I am – I am – I am
Outro
I am whosoever
I am whosoever
Here I am again at the foot of the cross
“I Am Whosoever”, from the Album “Bigger Than Me” | © 2020 Judith Baker (ASCAP) | Publisher LeBaker Music (ASCAP) | Music, Lyrics, Production and Sound Recording by Judith Baker | Background Vocals: James Baker, Judith Baker and Zoey the White Lioness | All Rights Reserved
