September 2010 Archives
Tribute to Tony Greene
For those who know Tony and Taranda Greene, today is a sad day. I do not know them personally but, as someone who’s listened to the Greenes for 25 years, I will miss Tony as well.
The first time I saw Tony was in 1993 at an outdoor concert where the Greenes performed with the Hoppers, the Bishops and several lesser known groups and artists. Having never seen the Greenes in person before, I enjoyed watching Tim and Tony’s interaction with each other and the way they poured their heart out for the few people who were at that concert. (Besides my family, I don’t think I’m exaggerating to say everyone else there were performers on the program.) My sister, who was 7 at the time, had on a shirt that matched Tony’s. She pointed it out to him and he was so sweet and took time to make a big deal about it which made her feel special.
Later on, I heard that he was engaged to a lady named Taranda and, when they married, I was happy for them. In a lot of ways, theirs seemed like a story out of a book. It’s been a blessing to watch their family grow with the addition of Belle and Josie. We’ve laughed and cried with them and prayed for them often the last few years but the family will need us to continue to lift them up in prayer. I can only imagine the heartache they are facing but I trust God to wrap His arms around them and carry them through this difficult time.
I was blessed to see Tony perform with the Greenes at the National Quartet Convention this month. The picture above was taken as they sang “Whole Lot of Heaven in the House.” I bet Tony can sing that with even more energy now.
It’s hard to understand God’s timing in taking His children Home but I trust Him. Life really is like a vapor–here today and gone tomorrow–but, as we hold to God’s unchanging hand, we don’t have to fear. Whether it’s our time to go or our dear loved one’s, His grace is there when we need it. He is there to take His child Home and comfort those who are left behind until the day we join them in an environment that we can now only imagine.
As Tim Greene and Phil Cross wrote, “I don’t have to know the reasons. I don’t have to ask Him why. I know He knows what’s best for me, best for my life. So I’ll daily surrender to what He has for me. I will keep on trusting God.” (“I Don’t Have to Know” from The Greenes’ Glimpse of Glory CD)
Prayer Requested for Tony Greene
I just thought I’d take a minute to ask all the prayer warriors who read my blog to please intercede for Tony Greene of The Greenes. I don’t have a lot of information except that he is in ICU with a collapsed lung. His wife, Taranda, has canceled their dates for this weekend and I have to say I’m feeling an urgency to cover them in prayer. Pray for strength and healing for Tony. Pray for peace for Taranda. Pray that God will bring in extra finances during this time that they’re taking off work. Pray that the Spirit of God will fill the hospital rooms so that no one will be able to deny His presence. It’s easy to focus on our own problems but, right now, let’s cover Tony, Taranda, their extended family and friends.
I was listening to “Miracle in Me” this evening. I have seen God do so many things, including raising people up from close to death. His hand is not short. He holds the power of life and death in His hands but I’m praying He will mercifully give Tony some more time with us. Thank you for joining me in approaching the Throne on their behalf.
Testifying of God’s Goodness
Songs like “Somebody Ought to Testify” and “I Just Got to Testify” keep coming to mind today since that’s exactly what I need to do: testify to the goodness of my Father.
This has been an interesting week for me. Last Saturday, I injured my leg and, although it’s a long story (in other words, typical of me, I have no idea what I did), it’s affected my walking. I’ve heard stories of people having to be on crutches or in a chair for weeks to months due to foot and leg injuries but I’m praising God that, one week later, although I still have to go slow and I’m trying not to overdo, I am able to walk and I feel like God’s giving me a quick recovery. It is so amazing to have a Father who loves me and cares for me that much.
On Wednesday, I came down with a sore throat and prepared myself to go through a long bout but, again, God is already touching my body and I feel like I may not have to go through a long drawn out, miserable cold or cough. I’m still fighting but I know God’s on my side and I’m trusting Him to allow me the downtime and rest that I need but not to exceed that.
Maybe these seem like little things to you but, to me, they are huge. In a way, it’s what I expect of my Father but I don’t ever want to take Him for granted. He could easily keep me laid up for six weeks but His mercy astounds me. I’ve actually appreciated the time to slow down a bit and re-connect with Him. It’s been way too long since I’ve focused on Him and His love for me and I’ve forgotten how much I miss that feeling. I needed the reminder to do that and pray I will be more instant from now on.
I will hopefully get to my NQC coverage next week but, for now, I just want to thank God for loving me and being here and for being real. I feel sorry for those who don’t have a God to turn to. I don’t know why He turns toward me but I’m so thankful that He does.
A Quick Note
I’m sorry I have not posted anything for a while. I had planned to cover the National Quartet Convention last week but did not have good internet access so I will plan to post the highlights soon. I’m sure other blogs were able to do live coverage but, if you’re like me, I’m sure you don’t get tired of hearing different perspectives on various aspects. I may not get to this until next week but want you to know I haven’t forgotten and will attempt to do that for you. I hope you all are having a great year. It’s hard to believe it’s already Autumn but I’m thankful that God controls each season. I look forward to seeing what this season holds.
Heading for Louisville
It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since the last National Quartet Convention but here we are again and I, for one, am filled with anticipation of everything God is going to do this coming week. Let’s be faithful to pray for the groups and attendees, that everyone there will receive the touch they need from God. He knows what the needs are and it’s not difficult for Him to meet those needs. I pray that those who have a close walk with Him will be a Light to those who don’t know Him or those who don’t have that close relationship that they desire.
The ministry I work for (Wisdom’s Gate) will have a booth (#302). If you are at the Convention, please stop by and say Hello. We will be running a conference special of half price subscriptions to the magazines we publish and we’ll have copies available for purchase if you would like to look through them before subscribing. You may especially be interested in the latest issue of An Encouraging Word since there is an article by Taryn Fowler (Scott Fowler’s wife) and Shelia Heil (whose articles appear in most issues of An Encouraging Word). I’m not at the booth much but hopefully our paths will cross and I’ll be able to meet some of you.
One thing I would advise you in: for those who attend the convention, make sure you’re not worshiping the singers but go prepared to worship the God who created music and inhabits our praise. The people who deliver the music are simply vessels who have been obedient to use the gifts God’s given them but most of them can use encouragement too so be sure to tell them how God has used them or their music in your life.
Have a blessed week and travel safe. For those who are not attending the Convention, please keep us in your prayers as well and I’ll be sure to fill you in on some of the highlights throughout the week.
Reflecting on the Cathedrals
Earlier today, I was listening to the Cathedrals’ The Best of Times CD which got me thinking about the first time I saw them in concert. It’d been about three years since I’d been to a concert, we had just moved and somehow we found out that the Cathedrals were going to be doing a love offering concert a couple hours from us. I was excited when I found out we could go. I never dreamed I’d get to see them and here we were!
We sat in the back and, as we waited for it to start, my brother and I went to look at the product table. I don’t remember what we bought at first but we found a couple things and then went to enjoy the concert. As we sat through the first half, even my brother was impressed. At half time, we went and bought some more product. After the concert, we went back to the table and the man started giving us deals. I think he was getting a kick out of us but we didn’t care. We were having fun.
I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to see the Cathedrals. There were so many groups I missed but what a blessing to have met George Younce, Glen Payne and Roger Bennett while they were alive. After the concert, George came back to the back row and gave us each a hug. He never knew how much that simple gesture would mean to a girl in her early 20s but I’ve never forgotten it and he’s held a special place in my heart ever since.
As I reflect over the various members who have come through the Cathedrals and the way they interact with people and make everyone feel so welcome, I realize they learned from one of the best. George would be so proud. May we all be so personable and full of love for others.
Press On
“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)
It’s so easy to lose sight of the goal but that’s the very thing, as Believers, that we ought not to do. When you become weary or discouraged, disillusioned or just plain worn out, look up. God is not as far away as He may seem. Sometimes He’s just waiting for us to acknowledge Him or ask for His help. Don’t stop; don’t turn around; don’t give up. Keep pressing on. You WILL hear that “Well Done.” It may not come as fast as you’d like but it will come and, when it does, your rejoicing will far overshadow every trial on earth!
This is War
This is War
by Mike PayneLife is like a battlefield
The enemy is out to kill
We can’t let him tear the Kingdom down
We’re not fighting flesh and blood
It’s between the bad and good
We can’t stop until the trumpet soundsThis is war
It’s not a game we’re playing
This is war
Brother, hear me what I’m saying
Pick up your sword and shield
Get on the battlefield
Satan’s army’s come to kill
This is warSatan’s army roams the land
Seeking souls of falling man
Leaving broken homes and hearts in misery
We must lift the mighty sword
The word spoken by the Lord
‘Cause when the devil hears the word
He’s got to flee
It seems like the longer I live, the more the spiritual battle intensifies. I don’t know if it’s always been this way or if it’s getting more intense as satan knows his days are numbered and he’s scrambling to see how many Christians he can discourage and defeat but it seems like I no sooner win one battle than another ensues. At times I find myself borderline exhausted but thankful for the renewal of the Spirit. This isn’t a fleshly battle after all. It is truly one that is Spiritual–one that we can’t win by fighting in our flesh.
Ephesians 6:11 tells us to “Put on the whole armor of God!” It’s not enough to have a few bits of armor. When facing an enemy who wants to destroy you, you’ve got to have the full set. For space reasons, I won’t list it all here but I would encourage you to read prayerfully through Ephesians 6:10-18 and make sure you have every bit of armor you need. I don’t think things will ever get easier. If anything, they may get harder but I long with Paul to be able to say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) As Christians, deserting is not an option. We’ve got to stand firm. If we are faithful until death, we will receive a “crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)
The Wages of Sin
“The wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23a)
From the youngest age, any child who grew up in church has memorized this verse but I was reminded recently how true this is. Death is not always instantaneous in your body shutting down and your heart ceasing to beat. Death can also be a gradual demise, a mind that can no longer think clearly, a body that should be healthy now riddled with decay and disease. For a lot of people, their family no longer wants anything to do with them, thinking they’ve gone too far. These are the people who are dead while they yet live. Modern-day leprosy in a sense but they don’t have to shout “Unclean!” Anyone can tell that already.
I’ve seen young people who look twice their age merely because they have allowed satan to control their mind and body. Regardless of which sins they participate in, one look into their hollow eyes lets you know how unhappy they are in reality.
As Christians who, in our minds, have not experienced this depth of depravity, it can be easy to look the other way and walk quickly by but Christ has called us to a life of compassion and love for even the vilest sinner. We need to use wisdom in how to reach out and who to minister to but, if we are open to Him using us, He will show us what we need to do. He has not saved us because we are better than others. He saved us because He is not willing that ANY should perish. But for the grace of God, you and I could be that beggar on the street. Let’s make sure we are shining with the love of Jesus and be willing to reach out a hand to help those in need as the Spirit leads.
Highlights from the National Quartet Convention 2010
I debated on whether to do a really long blog post featuring the whole week or if I should do each day separately. Since so much time has gone by and so as not to drag it out forever, I decided to do one big post with all the highlights. this may be extra long but it may not take long to skim the details. I have not read the other blog reviews of NQC so hopefully I’ll have some new insights or details that have not yet been covered.
In previous years, I’ve focused more on attending concerts in Freedom Hall but not going to a lot of the showcases. This year, I was able to see some of the lesser known groups perform and I’m glad I did.
Monday afternoon was my first time to see the Crist Family. I’ve been hearing good things about them but it was nice to experience them in person. They sang “Big Hallelujah” and “Joy’s Gonna Come in the Morning.” The group was very charismatic, especially Tami, so I can see why people like them. I picked up their latest CD and, although I haven’t had a chance to listen to it yet, I look forward to doing so.
Gerald Wolfe was the emcee Monday night and that was probably my biggest concert night. I saw Greater Vision, Tribute Quartet, The Inspirations, The Perrys, Squire Parsons, Gold City, Dixie Melody Boys, the McKameys, The Collingsworth Family, Naomi & the Segos, and Brian Free & Assurance.
I didn’t get to many of the concerts on Tuesday so will move along to Wednesday.
Thursday was the Bluegrass showcase. I was never into bluegrass growing up but I’ve learned to appreciate some of it in recent years. The performers were The Watkins Family, The Rochesters, The Isaacs, The Primitive Quartet, Cody Shuler & Pine Mountain Railroad, and a surprise visit by Jerry Salley. They also gave away awards that night as follows:
Female Vocalist: Becky Matthews (Rochesters)
Male Vocalist: Ben Rochester (Rochesters)
Instrumentalist: Ben Rochester (Rochesters)
Group: The Primitive Quartet
New Artist: Triple L Band
Song: “I’m a Soldier” (Rochesters)
Later that evening, I got to see the Diplomats and the Freemans back to back. Both groups were excellent. I’m still becoming familiar with the Diplomats but I think the Freemans were better than ever.
On Friday, I went to see Canaan’s Crossing. Some of you may remember me reviewing one of their CDs a couple months ago. I’ve enjoyed what I heard so it was neat to see them in person. Tina Miller seems like a neat lady and is very talented. I picked up their new CD too so I’m sure another review will be coming sometime in 2011.
That night I also saw The Kingsmen, Triumphant, The Easters, the Perrys, and I loved the finale of one of my favorite songs: “I Wish I Could Have Been there.” I don’t think I will ever get tired of seeing them perform that and I hope they never get tired of singing it.
Saturday‘s showcase was a tremendous highlight for me. It was the 100th Anniversary celebration of Southern Gospel music and the reunions that stage held were some that I never thought I’d see.
First of all, the LeFevre Quartet, the Blackwood Brothers and the Chuck Wagon Gang sang a few songs to honor their heritage. Then Lulu Roman sang “Two More Hands” and “King of Who I Am”–two songs which I remember well from the 1980s.
Dony, Reba and Destiny McGuire did the tribute to the Rambos with a medley of songs the Rambos had made popular. I missed having Dottie there but have to trust God in His timing. Buck Rambo joined them on “He Looked Beyond My Fault,” “Tears Will Never Stain the Streets of That City,” and “Things Are Gonna Be Better.”
The Nelons sang, “The Son’s Coming Up, “Son Go Bring My Children Home,” “O For a Thousand Tongues,” and “We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown.”
Scott Fowler, Gerald Wolfe, Danny Funderburk, Mark Trammell and Glenn Dustin paid a tribute to the Cathedrals, and then Ed Hill, Dewayne Burke, Rick Strickland, Michael English and Clayton Inman formed the Singing Americans to sing “Home,” “Glory Road,” and “I Bowed on My Knees and Cried Holy.”
What a wonderful afternoon. It was about two hours long but they packed a lot into that short amount of time.
On the main stage that evening, the performers included the Inspirations, the Primitive Quartet, the Blackwood Brothers, and the Mark Trammell Quartet.
I felt so blessed the whole week. Some of my friends didn’t arrive until Wednesday or Thursday but I met some new friends and enjoyed time with people that I don’t see but once a year. I still didn’t get a full ice cream cone but was able to finish some of my sister’s ice cream in a cup. We also never got around to getting our annual funnel cake but maybe next year.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my review. There’s a lot that I’ve probably forgot to mention or highlight but I’ve given you an overview and this, along with what’s been covered on other blogs, should fill you in on what you missed if you weren’t able to attend. If you were there, I’d love to hear about anything special God did for you that week. He is so faithful!