He doesn’t do it halfway! I have to share with you an opportunity that has been “given” to me. But first, a little history.
I have had the privilege of participating in a lot of overseas trips in my lifetime. From the ones I can remember, I’ve been to the following countries: England, Germany, Russia, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, France, Italy, South America, Canada and Japan. There might be more, but my brain doesn’t remember like it used to. On all of those trips I was also involved in music ventures in some way.
Ever since my double-lung transplant in 2008, I’ve wondered if I’d ever be able to travel internationally again. I really had a desire to, and have had a couple of opportunities to since transplant, but either the timing didn’t work out or my health didn’t cooperate. Another thought was in my head about a year and a half ago, I really had a desire to visit the Middle East. There were a lot of reasons, some obvious and others not, but I had what you might say was a “burning desire” to go. I looked at several opportunities, but most were too expensive, so I shelved the idea thinking, “Lord, if you want me to go, you’ll have to provide the way.”
After several months of this desire I received a call from a friend of mine here in town. He and his wife had spent some time in the Middle East and had recently returned to live here. My friend contacted me about a possible invitation to go with him, and other musicians, to the Middle East as part of a concert series! All expenses paid and, WE get paid as well for participating! My heart jumped, and then I jumped at the opportunity!
So, after almost a year of schedule changes and formatting of the group, etc. it’s official, I’ll be leaving for the Middle East on Saturday, May 19! I can’t share all the details with you about this trip right now, I can do that after we return. But for now, I do covet your prayers for protection and “opportunities.” Duke has cleared me for travel and I’m still feeling great, so off we go!
Wow! Like I said, when God answers prayer, He doesn’t mess around!