From the moment of our birth, we are helplessly dependent. As we mature, we strive to be increasingly independent. In the process, we reject others' counsel, help, provision, and even their love. The greatest tragedy, however, is that in our rebellious and sinful nature, we do the same with God.

The theme of The National Christian Choir's 21st CD – People Need the Lord – addresses our universal condition. It focuses on the fullness that Jesus Christ brings to the empty lives of those who do not know Him or who have turned away from His forgiveness and love.

Christ commissioned His followers to share the Gospel. That commission continues through every generation. His instructions are to start with those closest to us and then reach beyond until the message of salvation touches all mankind. We who believe in Him are called to be missionaries at home and even to the ends of the world. To that end, we assembled 11 musical selections on People Need the Lord that are both intimate and global. Some speak to the wonderful quality of life we enjoy through Jesus Christ. Some speak to the call on us to share the good news of that gift with others.

You will hear on this recording some familiar and greatly loved hymns of the church such as Nearer, Still Nearer, I Love to Tell the Story, and All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name. You will hear expanded anthem arrangements of worship songs such as Our Heart and Reach Out and Touch. Among the loveliest moments on the recording are Twila Paris' How Beautiful and Dan Schutte's Here I Am, Lord. Among the most awe-inspiring moments are Eugene Butler's classic anthem, Go Ye Into All the World, Mark Bishop's best-selling anthem, Reach the World, and Chris Christensen's contemporary hymn, Song for the Nations. Of course, the title song has become a "classic" in our time, and a brand new arrangement was created just for The NCC.

As our singers have been learning and recording these selections, they have consistently reported their wish that every title on People Need the Lord could be in our 2007-2008 concert repertoire. That won't be possible, but you will be able to embrace and share all of these selections through this CD which we pray will reach your heart, our nation, and the world for Jesus Christ.