My New Christmas Album: It Was Away in a Manger

🎄Hi friends! I’m so excited to tell you about my brand-new Christmas album called It Was Away in a Manger. It came out on October 31st, 2025, and I’ve been waiting to share it with you!

This album is really special to me because all the songs are original — my dad wrote them himself! They’re not the same old Christmas songs you’ve heard before. Each one has its own story, melody, and feeling that came straight from my heart.

Songs I Love Most

One of my favorite songs on the album is the title track, “It Was Away in a Manger.” It’s a soft and sweet song that reminds me of peaceful nights and the quiet magic of Christmas.

Another one I really love is “Joy to the World.” Even though it has the same name as the classic carol, this one’s totally new — it’s full of happiness and light, and it always makes me smile when I sing it.

Why I Made This Album

When we started writing these songs, we wanted to make music that felt warm and comforting — like sitting by the fire, watching snow fall, or being with the people you love. We hope these songs make you feel that way too.

You can listen to River and Me Ministries It Was Away in a Manger on all the music apps — and I really hope it becomes part of your Christmas season.

Thanks for listening and for sharing this special time with me. ❤️

Listen to the full album

Jump5 vs. PureNRG: A Personal Look at Fun, Faith, and Growing Up with Christian Pop

When I think back to the early 2000s, some of my happiest memories include dancing around my room to Jump5. Their high-energy songs and upbeat sound brought so much joy to my childhood. They were fun, wholesome, and full of life—and there’s something really special about that. Jump5 absolutely had a place in my growing-up years, and I look back on those moments with a smile.

But as I grew older, I naturally began to look for music that spoke more directly to my faith—songs that helped me think, pray, and reflect on Jesus in a deeper way.

That’s when PureNRG entered my life. I first discovered them around age 11, and their music immediately stood out to me. Their songs spoke openly and directly about Jesus, and that resonated with where I was spiritually at the time. Their lyrics felt bold, sincere, and rooted in faith, and they helped me think more intentionally about my relationship with God.

PureNRG’s music stayed with me through different seasons of life. Even now, I’ll occasionally revisit their songs—not just for nostalgia, but because the messages still mean something to me. Tracks like “Sweet Jesus” and “Savior” weren’t just enjoyable; they encouraged me to lean on the Lord and reflect on my faith in a deeper way.

Looking back, I see how music marked different chapters of my life. Jump5 represents joy, movement, and carefree childhood moments. PureNRG represents growth, reflection, and spiritual discovery. Both played a role, just in different ways.
If you’re interested, I’ve made two videos where I talk more in-depth about each group. Feel free to check them out—and I’d love to hear which songs from your childhood still stick with you today.

Disclaimer: I still listen to Jump5 sometimes, too. Especially their Christmas albums around Christmas time. It's just not music I find myself wanting to worship to.

Injured Bird | Iggy and Mr. Kirk | Season One, Episode One

Disclaimer, I NO LONGER WATCH IGGY AND MR. KIRK here's why...

Read my latest blog posts about Brave:

Brave Books Has Wizards in It — and That’s Not Okay

Brave books don't talk about God