Nashville-based singer-songwriter Andrew Ripp is known for his honesty and openness about his struggles and triumphs. In January 2023, he celebrated his 15th sobriety anniversary, a milestone he is proud of. Andrew strives to create authentic and truthful music, even if it means exploring spiritual themes that may not be as accessible to everyone. He believes we must hear songs about love, redemption, and overcoming adversity.
Andrew's music is relatable and inviting, making listeners feel like they are lifelong friends. His hit song "Jericho" from his album Evergreen expanded his audience and left them wanting more from this talented artist. Another popular song, "Fill My Cup," showcases his ability to connect with listeners by addressing the challenges of life and the need for a savior. Recently, I spoke with Andrew about his latest single, "Roses."
Please tell me the personal story behind this song.
I remember a moment of solitude with God on my front porch in Nashville, Tennessee. At that time, I had a one-year-old daughter, so the front porch was the only peaceful place where I could connect with God. As usual, I sat on the glider, but my mind was filled with distractions. However, I remained still and quiet, and eventually, the to-do list in my head subsided. At that moment, I looked to my left and noticed the rose vine that had been there for ten years, but I had never seen it in this way before. I thought of their beauty; no wonder we use them as a symbol of love.
Then I noticed the thorns down the vine, and my imagination ran wild. I saw how God used the beauty He created to be the very thing that man would use to take His life. And he made all of this knowing that it would be used against His son. “Planted the tree where He would die, put thorns down the vine, and then He wore them.” That’s where the idea came from, even though God gave me this song. I don’t feel like I wrote it. I feel like I received it as a gift from the Lord to share and show people this perspective on the cross—the most beautiful love story ever.
Which Bible verses connect to the message of the song?
Isaiah 61:3(NKJV): “To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified."
Revelation 21:5(NIV): He seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then He said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."
2 Corinthians 5:17(NKJV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
1 Peter 5:6-7(NIV): “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Romans 15:13(NIV): "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Lamentations 3:22-23(NKJV): “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”
Lyrics
Ever wonder what was on the mind of the maker When He turned all of our sorrow into fields of grace Right here in the middle of earth and heaven Caught between the romance and the pain Can’t you see that
He must’ve known about the heartbreak long before us He must’ve known about the mistakes; still, He chose us Planted the tree where He would die Put thorns down the vine, and then He wore them And love is the blood-red stain, the beauty that the pain exposes Maybe that’s why God made roses
God is in the whisper if you listen closely Winter means that spring is just a breath away So, don’t go any faster than this very moment Sing a hallelujah the pouring rain Can’t you see that
And just like petals falling to the ground We fall into the one whose resurrection’s here and now All things made new
He must’ve known about the heartbreak long before us He must’ve known about the mistakes; still, He chose us Planted the tree where He would die Put thorns down the vine, and then He wore them And love is the blood-red stain, the beauty that the pain exposes Maybe that’s why God made roses
Closing Thoughts
We should never feel ashamed to express our dependence on God and show Him reverence. Our story is not over yet, and God is still writing our stories of redemption. He wants us to know that He is faithful to complete what He has started in all of us who have put our hope and trust in Jesus for our salvation.
The song "Roses" has resonated with me lately as I realize Jesus commands us to trust God completely, no matter our circumstances, personal distractions, or concerns. God wants to be at the center of our heart's desires, not just in our minds. Although we change our minds quickly, our hearts are more devoted.
When I listen to this song, I face some challenges. I question whether I am simply compartmentalizing my life or transcending my realities when I worship the Lord. I also wonder if I recognize that Jesus is my Lord, regardless of how I'm feeling or what I'm going through.
Andrew Ripp sings enthusiastically, expressing unashamed praise and gratitude to our Savior. His music is inspiring and emotionally moving, with earnest and worshipful lyrics. Listening to this song feels like eavesdropping on Andrew's prayer.
This beautiful song encourages us to pray to God to break our pride, live a life of redemption, and move closer to who we are meant to be in Christ. We should allow God and His Holy Spirit to transform us to be more like Jesus and move closer to His glory, even if that means asking God to fill our cup.
Our worship is an offering, but God made the way for us to be with Him. Worship is about giving God our best and offering ourselves to Him. We must submit ourselves to Him and His goodness, allowing His blood to cover and run over us. We need to give everything we have to Him. As God's Word in Jeremiah 29:13 says, we should search for God with all our hearts, and we will find Him. We serve a loving and merciful God who accepts us as we are, not who we pretend to be. I love singing this song back to Jesus, telling Him plainly that I need no other than Him.
Sometimes, individuals may believe that worship is limited to attending a religious gathering or participating in musical activities. However, worship should be a thoughtful and intentional act. It involves placing our value and worth in something rather than simply going through the motions or engaging in it mindlessly. You can participate in worship by singing along with the breath God gave you: “He must’ve known about the heartbreak long before us/He must’ve known about the mistakes. Still, He chose us/Planted the tree where He would die/Put thorns down the vine, and then He wore them/And love is the blood red stain, the beauty that the pain exposes/Maybe that’s why God made roses.” Amen to that. Merry Christmas. Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth, peace.
NRT lead contributor Kevin Davis is a long-time Christian music fan and an avid collector. He credits the message of Christian music for leading him to Christ. He lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and three daughters.
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