| We were
called to minister through our music in 2002. God gave us many confirmations
that this was our calling.
First
there was the encouragement we received from our many good band-friends
and festival promoters. Marilyn's beautiful voice and clearly understood
lyrics received continual compliments. The witness of a husband-wife
team singing gospel music with harmony and joy drew listeners to them wherever
they performed.
In the
year 2000, Marilyn began to receive songs. Original lyrics and melodies
would come to her in the middle of the night. Most of these songs
were gospel in content. It wasn't long before the collection grew
to over 150 songs. Why did God give her these songs? Did He
mean for us to share them?
In June
of 2002 while camping in Toronto, Canada we met a lady who was attracted
to our music. As we conversed she told us about a Bible conference
in California (our home state) that she thought we would enjoy. We
attended the conference and the message spoke directly to us, giving us
courage to step out and follow God's calling.
Then
we received a copy of the book Purpose Driven Life from an old friend
who we had not seen in 40 years. As we read the book we were amazed
as the thoughts expressed coincided with God's leading in our lives.
This book reaffirmed our calling to move forward and share our music.
Everything
seemed to be coming together at once and we felt compelled to step out
on faith. At first it was not easy for us, but God smoothed our path.
It
is such a blessing to share our music and reach out to those elderly people
who
are confined to retirement and care centers.
We enjoy
reaching out with our music at Bluegrass festivals. The Sunday program
gives us a chance to share our bluegrass gospel music and many of Marilyn's
original bluegrass gospel songs. Camping out over the weekend offers
opportunities to touch other campers with our message through songs.
Wherever
we camp we play our music and enjoy sharing with other campers. Often
we will meet a new musician and our music draws people to our campsite
where we get acquainted and reach out to them.
We share
our music at churches, retirement homes, convalescent hospitals, festivals,
campgrounds, jamborees, fund raisers, special events and private gatherings.
Audiences continue to grow and our joy overflows with love as we share
our music.
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