Smokey Mountain Rain

After a wonderful Saturday spent teaching a music workshop, we rested very well at the hotel last night. In fact, I feel as if I slept too hard. I was having a hard time waking up... until Tate and Spencer opened their eyes (and mouths). We're just hanging out this morning since the service is 1:00 this afternoon. Kim is going through Spencer's suitcase, declaring it a disaster zone, Tate is trying on Kim's clothes (which greatly concerns me), and Spencer is singing "Smokey Mountain Rain" with the assistance of Ronnie Milsap in the background on i-tunes.

Today promises to be an awesome of music, ministry, and friends. But first, I need to walk across the street to the RV company and pick up my newly repaired vehicle. They squeezed me in yesterday and repaired the fresh tank water hose for $5.61 (parts) and $110 for one hour's labor. Another prayer answered. You know how auto repairs can get ugly in a hurry. Tonight we'll be spending time with my stepdad's, newphew at his church. I say it this way because my stepdad is related to everyone east of the Mississippi, and south of Louisville, KY. We always joke with him about his family tree. He is a great guy with a wonderful, friendly and loving family.

I was right about today. It was one of the most powerful day of services/concerts we've had all summer! Singers are a dime a dozen. Musicians come and go. I've learned a long time ago there is always someone, somewhere who can sing and/or play better than I can. Talent alone doesn't get the job done. Talent doesn't save anyone's soul. Abilities can't change people's lives in a positive manner. I have to say that out of all the musicians and singers I heard in today's services, they weren't trying to perform. They weren't trying to impress anyone... except God. They didn't try to "out sing" the other guy or group. There is a difference in ministering in song, and simply singing a song. The world doesn't need another good singer. What we need are more singers who live the life they sing about, and who actually "minister" to the souls of the listeners. I was so impressed today by Darren Thomas. He went on last in the program, and once it was his turn, he simply began to lead the rest of us into God's presence. He didn't need an outline. He wasn't relying on lead sheets. His songs didn't have any live video footage playing in the background. There wasn't a stage filled with smoke and dry ice, with orange lights circling about the audience. When did we (the church) begin to think that God Almighty needed all of that extra stuff (I call it "fluff"), before He can move in a service. Note to all singers: If you feel you must have those "extras" for your song to be over-the-top, then maybe we need to change songs. Better yet, why don't we just change singers and allow someone whose life is anointed have a chance to sing. Oh my! I need to stop before I get too deep into this here. It is late and I might type something that will need to be edited out tomorrow. Ha! I'll save these thoughts for another time... another place.

But let me say that today was perhaps another life-changing time in my life. I've been encouraged in my spirit. I know God has his hand over my family's lives. He is preparing us for a new day. I want to be ready when His time is right. I want to be prepared when it is time to step out on faith and allow God to do His thing through us. Keep us in your prayers. I hope everyone has a wonderful week!