ABOVE AND BEYOND
Original songs with a positive, encouraging message about everyday issues as well as life with God. Lyrics written by Mark Greenelsh. Music produced with AI-assisted tools.
Rise Victorious
Always Saving
Undone
Every Side
One True King
Beyond Your Dreams
Ripples of Love
Bonfire Butterflies
Three Hearts on a Hill
Showers of Grace
Three Hearts on a Hill
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
A mother and her daughter and son spend quality time together watching clouds on a beautiful spring afternoon.
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(Verse 1)
Hand in hand they climb the hill,
Mother, daughter, and her son,
Laughter floating through the air,
Spring’s sweet symphony begun.
(Verse 2)
The boy cups hands with a grass blade,
Whistle blown with puffed-out cheeks,
His sister weaves wild daisies bright
Into matching floral wreaths.
(Chorus)
Like clouds that drift across the blue,
These moments float and fade too soon,
But love remains when day is through,
A gift beneath the sun and moon.
(Verse 3)
They settle on the grassy slope,
Where dandelions sway and bow,
As cotton clouds parade above
On heaven’s canvas, vast and blue.
(Verse 4)
“A dragon there!” the young boy points,
“A horse!” his sister then replies,
“And look, a clown!” their mother laughs,
As shapes transform before their eyes.
(Verse 5)
They giggle at the memory
Of father dressed in polka dots,
His painted smile and floppy shoes
At birthday parties long forgot.
(Bridge)
Like gentle breezes shape the sky,
Experience molds these tender hearts,
The lessons learned while lying still
Will help them grow and reach the stars.
Slowing down to see with fresh eyes
Sharing wonders that they find
Three souls connecting on a hill
Uniquely forming, while intertwined.
(Chorus)
Like clouds that drift across the blue,
These moments float and fade too soon,
But love remains when day is through,
A gift beneath the sun and moon.
Undone
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
Although you might feel like you’ve reached your end, God is not done with you. Find lasting rest, renewal, strength, wisdom, and direction by trusting in God when you are fatigued from trials or trauma.
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(Verse 1)
Friendships fade like autumn leaves,
Career crumbles, dreams deceive,
Heart heavy with grief’s embrace,
Familiar world, a foreign place.
(Verse 2)
Values shift like desert sand,
Society crumbles where I stand,
Emotions raw, nerves exposed,
Foundations shaken, future closed.
(Verse 3)
Trauma strikes with sharpened claws,
Relentless blows without a pause,
No time to heal, no break from attacks.
Teetering on the brink of collapse.
(Chorus)
When storms of change leave you undone,
Seek God’s light, he’s the only One
Who can rebuild, renew, restore,
And lead you through salvation’s door.
(Bridge)
For in the depths of dark despair,
God’s whisper cuts through the air,
“My child, I’ve got you,” he declares,
His love breaks through, his presence there.
(Verse 4)
From ashes, he builds anew,
Friendships bloom, refreshed like dew.
Purpose rises from the pain,
His wisdom guides like steady flame.
(Verse 5)
Broken hearts, he tenderly mends.
His touch transforms, and chaos ends.
Through trials, your faith he refines.
In his light, hope brightly shines.
(Outro)
Rest in God’s unchanging grace,
Strength renewed in his embrace,
His perfect plan begins to show,
In him, you learn, you heal, you grow.
Always Saving
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
Jesus is always present with those who follow him although at times he waits to reveal himself in order to strengthen their faith. We see this truth at work when Jesus walked on water to join his disciples during a storm (Matthew 14:22-33).
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(Verse 1)
On distant shores, he bends his knee
Interceding for his disciples at sea.
Though waves may crash and winds may roar
His presence guards them, evermore.
(Chorus)
Jesus is always here
Though sometimes hidden from our sight.
He waits to reveal his face
To strengthen those who trust by faith.
(Verse 2)
Upon the waters, he treads with grace
Loving commander of time and space.
In storm and tempest, he draws near
His voice dispelling every fear.
(Chorus)
Jesus is always here
Though sometimes hidden from our sight.
He waits to reveal his face
To strengthen those who trust by faith.
(Verse 3)
Peter steps out, drawn to his Lord
Walking on water, faith taking form.
But fear casts doubt, he starts to fall.
Christ grasps his hand, heeding his call.
(Bridge)
No matter the trials you face today
God’s saving work is on display.
Trust and obey, he’ll see you through
Jesus is always saving you.
(Verse 4)
In the boat now, storm still rages
But peace descends, as fear assuages.
From worry to worship, their hearts take flight
For God’s own Son conquers their night.
(Chorus)
Jesus is always here
Though sometimes hidden from our sight.
He waits to reveal his face
To strengthen those who trust by faith.
Ripples of Love
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
Like a skipping stone touching upon a glassy pond, a young father and his son find ways to connect as they journey life together.
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(Verse 1)
Down a forest path they tread,
Son’s hand in father’s pressed,
Summer warmth upon their heads,
Hearts together, simply blessed.
(Verse 2)
Birdsong dances through the trees,
They spot a deer with big brown eyes.
Father points out mysteries—
Nature’s wonders often disguised.
(Chorus)
Like stones that skip across the pond,
Each touch a moment, brief but strong,
These days won’t stay, they travel on,
But ripples affect a lifetime long.
(Verse 3)
Flowers and trees the father shows,
“Stars guide you home when day is done.”
Seeds of wisdom that he sows,
In fertile soil of his son.
(Verse 4)
Leaf boats race on bubbling stream,
Laughter echoes as they go,
By the pond they gather stones,
Smooth and flat for a perfect throw.
(Verse 5)
The boy tells of trouble at school
Holding up a stone his father remarks,
“Water makes a rough stone smooth
Just as trials refine your heart.”
(Bridge)
Time flows like the water clear,
Children grow and seasons change,
But love, purposeful and dear,
Echoes far beyond our days.
Love echoes far beyond our days.
(Verse 6)
Homeward bound on winding trail,
Hand in hand they walk with ease,
Stories shared will never pale,
Special days, kissed by love’s breeze.
(Chorus)
Like stones that skip across the pond,
Each touch a moment, brief but strong,
These days won’t stay, they travel on,
But ripples affect a lifetime long.
One True King
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
Through humble surrender overcome the deadly mistake of creating a god in your image instead of serving God, the only true King, who created us in his image.
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(Verse 1)
Clay in hands, shaping gods of our own
Reflections distorted, mirrors of pride.
Life withers when truth remains unknown
When Creator and created switch sides.
(Verse 2)
Jesus came to reveal God’s face
While we sculpt idols from our desires.
We worship false gods, truth debased
Building thrones that will turn to fire.
(Chorus)
There’s only one King in heaven’s domain.
We bear His image, not the other way.
Surrender the crown not yours to claim
And rise in the life He gives today.
(Verse 3)
He came to heal what’s broken inside
But we hide our wounds behind walls of pride
Preferring bandages to being made whole
Denying the fractures within our soul.
(Verse 4)
He came to break every chain that binds
While we clutch our shackles, familiar and worn
Slaves to comfort, to fear, to our minds
Missing freedom for which we were born.
(Bridge)
Open your eyes to see
The throne you’ve tried to steal.
Bow down upon your knees
Before the God who’s real.
Die to self, live in Him
Let go of your control.
The mighty King who conquers sin
Restores and makes you whole.
(Verse 5)
He offers rivers of endless life
We demand puddles on our terms
Cursing the rain that ends our strife
When blessings don’t match what we think we deserve.
(Verse 6)
He wants to adopt you as his child
To walk as heir in His kingdom light.
Yet we wander fatherless and wild
Orphans by choice in the darkest night.
(Chorus)
There’s only one King in heaven’s domain.
We bear His image, not the other way.
Surrender the crown not yours to claim
And rise in the life He gives today.
Bonfire Butterflies
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
Getting to know someone special can be awkward, yet thrilling.
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(Verse 1)
Flames dance on the sand, a Friday night delight.
My heart skips as I spot him in the firelight
Stealing glances ‘cross the circle, shy and unsure
Wondering if he notices me, or am I just a blur?
(Verse 2)
Marshmallow in hand, he wanders to my side
My cheeks flush warm, nowhere for my smile to hide.
“Mind if I join you?” he asks with a grin.
I nod, tongue-tied, as butterflies take flight within.
(Verse 3)
We talk of classes, summer jobs, and favorite books.
Lost in conversation, I forget my nervous looks.
Toes in the sand, we laugh at shared jokes.
The bonfire’s glow softens as the night unfolds.
(Chorus)
Oh, bonfire butterflies, fluttering so free
Under starry skies, just him and me.
Awkward and thrilling, this moment so new.
Bonfire butterflies, I wish he knew.
(Verse 4)
Friends call from the pier, he turns to me and smiles.
“Want to join? The view’s amazing for miles!”
We stroll down the boardwalk, the ocean below.
Moonlight on water puts on quite a show.
(Bridge)
Waves crash in rhythm with my beating heart
I wish upon a star this night won’t part.
But headlights appear, his ride is here
The spell breaks softly, my joy tinged with fear.
(Verse 5)
He thanks me sweetly for a special night
Says he hopes to see me when school’s in sight.
I nod and look down, words stuck in my throat.
He waves goodbye and turns to go.
(Verse 6)
As he fades from view like a shooting star.
I’m left with memories of who we are.
Bonfire butterflies, take flight once more
Until we meet again on Monday’s shore.
(Chorus)
Every Side
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
God goes before those who trust him. He is present with them, and follows behind them, just as he did when he enabled ancient Israel to miraculously cross the Jordan River and enter the land he promised them.
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(Verse 1)
Like waters parting, a path revealed
God’s mighty hand, our future sealed.
For all who trust, he clears the way
Our provider, both night day.
(Chorus)
God goes before us, walks by our side.
He follows behind, a faithful guide.
Through every season, in joy or pain
He’ll never leave, his love remains.
(Verse 2)
Jesus, our shepherd, leads us on
The door to life, when hope seems gone.
His light illuminates our path.
His truth protects from Satan’s attack.
(Chorus)
(Verse 3)
Our daily bread, he will provide.
In his vine our branches thrive.
In suffering, he shares our load
Redeems our pain, opens what’s closed.
(Bridge)
Listen and follow, trust in his plan.
Devote your heart, take hold his hand.
He’s preparing you for what’s to come
As he keeps his promises, one by one.
(Chorus)
(Outro)
Walk in his will, surrounded by grace
Resting in him, growing in faith.
Join in his work, transformed each day
More like Jesus, in every way.
Showers of Grace
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
God’s grace like rain flows freely from heaven to cleanse and revive all who receive his transforming power by faith.
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(Verse 1)
Silver droplets from the sky,
Full of promise as they fall.
Like grace descending from on high,
God’s love reaching one and all.
(Verse 2)
Washing away the grime and dust,
As grace cleanses every sin,
Revealing beauty long encrusted,
God’s design shines from within.
(Chorus)
Thank you, God, for all you send,
A shower of blessing without end.
I trust and need you each day.
By your grace, Lord, I am saved.
(Verse 3)
Parched earth drinks the healing stream,
As withered souls find new life,
In grace’s flow, hope’s gentle gleam,
Quenching thirst and ending strife.
(Bridge)
Tender shoots push through softened ground,
As grace nurtures new belief,
In hearts once hardened, faith is found,
Bringing joy and sweet relief.
(Chorus)
Beyond Your Dreams
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
When you trust God and submit your choices to him, he gives his best. He faithfully provides in ways that exceed your expectations or understanding.
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(Verse 1)
In the desert of trial, a ram appears
Abraham’s faith, dissolving fears.
Isaac spared, a miracle unfolds
God’s provision, more precious than gold.
(Verse 2)
Waters part, a path through the sea
Moses leads, the captives break free.
Pharaoh’s army swallowed by the tide
In God’s deliverance, safely abide.
(Chorus)
Trust in the Lord, let his will be done
His plans are greater than anyone’s.
Surrender your heart, he’ll light the way
Beyond your dreams, his glory displayed.
(Verse 3)
A shepherd boy with just a stone
Faces a giant, but not alone.
David’s faith, a sling in hand
God’s victory across the land.
(Bridge)
From wisdom sought to strength in pain
Our weakness becomes our greatest gain.
From Jesus’ death, life blooms anew
Trust in his guidance, he’ll see you through.
(Verse 4)
On Calvary’s hill, love’s sacrifice
The ultimate gift beyond all price.
From death to life, the veil now torn
In trusting him, you are reborn.
(Chorus)
(Outro)
Choose to yield your will each day
To him who knows the perfect way.
For when you trust and follow him
He gives his best, exceeding what’s been.
Rise Victorious
by Mark Greenelsh ©2025
God promised salvation. At the cross Jesus delivered. Jesus’ death and resurrection secures victory for all who trust him.
___________________________________
(Verse 1)
On a hill drenched in crimson light,
Love poured out in darkest night,
The promise whispered through all time
Now fulfilled in sacrifice divine.
(Verse 2)
Chains of guilt now shattered fall,
Grace flows like a waterfall,
Where sin once scarred with deepest stain,
His blood washes, none remain.
(Chorus)
Jesus did what no one else could do,
Lived the life that we were meant to pursue,
Bore our death upon that rugged tree,
Rose again to set the captives free.
Through Christ alone is our victory.
(Verse 3)
Power rises with the dawn,
Selfish shadows now withdrawn,
His Spirit breathes new strength within,
To love and serve beyond ourselves with him.
(Verse 4)
The veil is torn, the way made clear,
To the Father’s heart we can draw near,
Rivers of life abundant flow,
Seeds of heaven here and now to grow.
(Chorus)
Jesus did what no one else could do,
Lived the life that we were meant to pursue,
Bore our death upon that rugged tree,
Rose again to set the captives free.
Through Christ alone is our victory.
(Bridge)
Jesus calls with arms spread wide,
“Come and rise to new life by my side,
Take my hand in abiding faith,
And walk in victory all your days!”
(Verse 5)
No longer strangers, orphans, lost,
We’re family purchased at great cost,
Around one table now we sing,
Children of the everlasting King.
(Chorus)
Jesus did what no one else could do,
Lived the life that we were meant to pursue,
Bore our death upon that rugged tree,
Rose again to set the captives free.
Through Christ alone is our victory.
(Outro)
God has done it all for you and me.
Through Christ alone is our victory.