Modern Disciple Magazine for Men (MDM4M), published in Canada
AUGUST 2004
MD: It's interesting that you realize the importance of relationships. It seems like the artists who don't understand that are at a disadvantage.
JR: By nature, artists are often quiet and introverted. You have to remember that people don't come just to hear you sing, they come to know you. To find out who you are. That is something that we take very seriously. Without those relationships, it is not going to work.
MD: What is the mission of Building 4:29?
JR: We were inspired by Ephesians 4:29, which is
where our name comes from. We really want to talk to the high
school and college-age kids and remind them that the words that we
speak are very important. We have always been united under the
same cause, to speak to young people about the importance of God
in our lives and how small people like us can do big things. We
want people to recognize that they can be world-changers if they
choose to live in a way that's Godly.
It is true that every word we choose to use, there are people
watching and listening to see how we live.
MD: Has this become more clear to you since becoming a father?
JR: Yes, it has been several things. With my son,
with every word that I use, with even tone, I could accidentally
crush his heart, by using the wrong tone of voice.
I think that we have to show compassion and mercy and grace, in
spite of all the things that are horrible in this world, we have
to show Christ-like love.
Also, since signing this record deal, we will be places where
people will recognize us. That shouldn't be a big deal, but that
made us even more aware that we need to be living our mission all
the time.
On a side note, whatever comes from this interview, I want it
recognized that we are not anything that amazing, we're just
willing. You don't have to know the Bible frontward and backwards,
you just have to be willing to follow Christ and He can use you
to change the world. That's been proven over and over again in
the Word
