How can music help us heal? A Conversation with Brian Craig

Brian is best known for some of the songs he's written that are sung by those in International Churches of Christ around the world -- songs like "Be with Me, Lord," "I Need Your Love," "Great Among the Nations," and “Anchor for the Soul.” Having written songs in the alternate rock genre for a long time he set out to write some really simple, easy-to-sing songs that could replace some of the ones he'd gotten tired of singing in church. Over time those songs caught on and are now favorites.    Of course now he's tired of those songs so he's always writing new ones. Like spiritual therapy his soul is renewed by the act of writing songs that express themes of devotion, heartache, exuberance, fellowship, and a desire to change the world. Brian has released several albums over the years and is currently working in the studio on recording his next release.   Brian has a Masters degree in Ministry from Pepperdine University and is currently serving in the LA Church of Christ as an evangelist, teacher, and minister of worship and media.  He has a beautiful wife and three kids he's crazy about.  He blogs at jbriancraig.wordpress.com and uploads videos to youtube.com/jbriancraig   1. We wanted to connect last year on your album Wait for the Lord My Soul and its relevance to mental health. Tell us about the journey you’ve been on with your health.  2. How would you describe the connection between art/music, worship and mental health? 3. What can you share about dealing with loss, faith, and surrender?  4. How does this relate to where we are as a church and where we need to mature?  5. What are you working on now?