"Rebels," Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers

Y'all watch this here. Tom Petty broke his hand having a temper tantrum during the recording of the studio version of the song in 1984. "Rebels" is also remarkable as an example, along with the Band's "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," of how white rock stars could indulge in nostalgia for the Confederacy (though certainly not for slavery) with evident impunity. I love this live version because of the horns at 3:55, twinned with Mike Campbell's guitar. I'm a sucker for a horn section.

"Life Is Waiting": Sermon For I Advent

Because our lives are usually taken up with destinations and outcomes, we're prone to be impatient on the way. We're also tempted to believe that if we achieved our most precious dreams -- bigger house, better relationship, perfect health -- then we'd be happier. During Advent, Christians are invited to find contentment in process instead of completion. After all, when Christmas Day finally comes, it will be over before we know it. Why not practice letting the waiting (with apologies to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers) be the easiest and happiest part? My Sunday sermon is here.

Achy Songs: "Unbreakable Heart" (1993)

Carlene Carter. Song by Benmont Tench of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers