In this week's episode, Dennis Jernigan shares the story behind his song, "Regalion's Song", from the album "The Chronicles of Bren: Captured – Songs for the Journey". That mp3 is available at https://www.thechroniclesofbren.com/store/captured-songs-for-the-journey-album/ The lyrics can be found below.
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You will find the show notes and lyrics below:
Welcome to The Dennis Jernigan Podcast, where we journey together toward healing, hope, intimacy, and refuge, ultimately fostering a deeper connection with Jesus. Through the years, I've learned one thing for certain: God doesn't waste a single moment. He redeems our sorrows, our wounds, and even our failures.
Hey there, I'm your host, Dennis Jernigan, and I'm thrilled about the upcoming episodes on the podcast, diving into a topic I'm truly passionate about. As you know, I have been going through the songs I wrote for my fantasy first book in the fantasy trilogy, The Chronicles of Bren - specifically, the songs for book 1, Captured.
It was my goal to paint an allegorical representation of salvation in Christ and a Christ-centered worldview in such a way that unbelievers would be presented with their need for Jesus and would see the great transformative power of His resurrection. The Chronicles of Bren subtly weave in images of Jesus and the discovery of one's identity in Him.
But wait, there's more! I've penned not just one, but two book series. The initial trilogy, The Chronicles of Bren, sets the stage for the adventures that follow in the upcoming fourth book of The Bairns of Bren series. In this second series, my grandchildren take the reins as heroes, leading us on an exhilarating journey. Stay tuned for updates on the release of book 4 in this captivating saga.
This week's featured song, “Regalion’s Song,” born around 2015 or 2016, delves into the depths of the spiritual realm of pride and the power of forgiveness.
Regalion means ‘royal’ or ‘royalty’ – Even though Regalion is a minor character in the book Captured, he represents a major bit of wisdom. Regalion spent his early life rather selfishly. His choices led his son, Lucian, to believe many lies about himself. In a sense, Regalion was in prison long before we meet him in the dungeon. He was imprisoned in his own heart with selfish pride and bitterness. The simple act of seeking the forgiveness of his son proves not that Regalion was weak…but that he was finally realizing the mighty strength of transparency and honesty, owning and admitting failure…and embracing his son in spite of Lucian’s shortcomings. Regalion represents hope. As long as we have breath – regardless of our circumstances – there is hope.
[Pro 13:12 NIV] 12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
Let’s listen to Region’s Song and hear the heart cry of a broken heart.
SONG
[Psa 42:5 NIV] 5 Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
I often find it easier to receive God's forgiveness than to forgive myself. But then I remember that to not do so is one of the most prideful things I could possibly do! And there is the matter of not forgiving others which essentially locks us in the prison of our own mind. Ain't nobody got time for that!
[Col 1:13-14 NIV] 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
And it goes without saying that pride comes before every fall, but we have good news according to first Peter chapter 5 which says,
[1Pe 5:5-11 NIV] 5 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
I trust that this series of songs on my podcast hasn't been too overwhelming for you. These narratives offer me a unique insight into the hearts of my grandchildren. Many of them are reaching an age where they grasp the allegorical essence and its profound significance, and for that, I am truly grateful.
May you discover joy and solace within the pages of the books and the melodies of the songs. They serve as uplifting - and, I’ll admit, sometimes scary - companions, guiding you to encounter Jesus even amidst life's toughest trials.
Thank you for tuning in to The Dennis Jernigan Podcast. For more about my journey, music, and more, visit dennisjernigan.com. Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram, and explore my music on various streaming platforms. If you're keen on joining my team, consider becoming a Patron at patreon.com/dennisjernigan. Your support means the world to me!
The book "Captured" is now available on Amazon in paperback, ebook, and audiobook versions. I encourage you to delve into "Captured" and then enjoy the songs inspired by its characters, all available for FREE. Simply head to https://www.thechroniclesofbren.com/store/captured-songs-for-the-journey-album/ to download the complete collection at no cost.
Thank you once more for being a part of today's podcast. Remember, you are deeply loved by God and by me. Be quick to humble yourself when pride raises its ugly head and be quick to seek forgiveness when you have wounded another. Now, I challenge you to rise as the warrior for God's kingdom you are called to be today. Cast off the enemy's lies, embrace the truth of your identity in the Lord, and go forth as the cherished son or daughter of your Heavenly Father.
Regalion’s Song
WORDS & MUSIC
Dennis Jernigan
©2015 Dennis Jernigan
Verse
I thought I had been forgotten
Would never be seen again
So long in this dark dungeon
Most thought I'd come to the end
Betrayed and then belittled
But I was merely a fool
Replacing love with status
Rubbish in place of a jewel
And then I see you
And the damage I've done
I was so wrong
Will you forgive me, my son?
Chorus
I can see a little light
Somewhere in the distance
Somewhere in forgiveness
The answer will be known
I can see a little light
Just there on the horizon
Now I’m realizin’
I’m not that far from home
Just to be known by you
To be loved by you
Just to be seen right through
I am home
Verse
At times life can be a battle
Relationship, like a war
Selfishly fought for myself
But what was I fighting for?
This is no way to live life
On top, but what have I gained?
I, by my selfishness,
Drive what is most precious away
And then I see you
And the damage I've done
I was so wrong
Will you forgive me, my son?
Chorus
I can see a little light
Somewhere in the distance
Somewhere in forgiveness
The answer will be known
I can see a little light
Just there on the horizon
Now I’m realizin’
I’m not that far from home
Just to be known by you
To be loved by you
Just to be seen right through
I am home
Chorus
I can see a little light
Somewhere in the distance
Somewhere in forgiveness
The answer will be known
I can see a little light
Just there on the horizon
And now I’m realizin’
I’m not that far from home
Just to be known by you
To be loved by you
Just to be seen right through
I am home
