Yesterday, a large contingent of our choir, orchestra and technical crew and some of their families braved some of the worst freeway traffic I have ever seen to go to Bluffton to do a concert that looked like it was going to be in the rain. They rode those buses for well over 5 hours in order to help one of our partners, Carl Martin, begin a church in that spiritually-needed area.

Many of you prayed for the success of this endeavor. The weather was horrible, but the rain stopped about 15 minutes before the concert was to begin. Because of the traffic, I could not get there in time, but I understand that the program was fabulous. We had over 350 people attend and at the end of the concert, Carl Martin made a very clear presentation of the gospel.

Our people then got back on the bus and headed home for a very late arrival in Spartanburg.  I am so proud of Mickey Henderson, our music staff, and all of those who made the sacrifice to be a part of this event.  They made an incredible sacrifice and experienced a very long day to share the real and complete message of Christmas.

That is what the 12 days of Christmas is all about. This is a time of opportunity in difficult and confusing times to share with great clarity and commitment the good news of the coming of Christ. This is a week that is filled with opportunity. I hope each of you will plan to be a part of these opportunities. Christmas has got to be more than what you like and what you get or your own set of traditions. It has to be about sharing the Good News in a clear and comprehensive way.

In the midst of our 600 hours of prayer, no matter what time you read this blog, someone will be praying for this ministry. It is exciting for me to think about that. The folks who made the trip to Bluffton in the name of the Lord were willing to do whatever it took to share the gospel. We need more heroes just like them.