Sing-A-Long With Tim

    
     Straight out of Orange County, Tim Timmons and his wife of 18 years, Hilary are currently residing in Nashville, Tennessee with their 4 children Malia, Noah, and twins Aaron and Anna.

     When Tim was living in Orange County he was a worship leader for almost two decades which is easily recognizable on his most recent album release through Provident Label Group/ Reunion Records. 

     One of the reasons I titled this review "Sing-A-Long With Tim", is because the musicianship on Awake Our Souls produces melodies that you can easily begin to catch onto and by the second chorus you are already joining right in with him the first time you hear each song.  That is a trademark quality of someone who has been a worship leader.  It's all about inviting everyone else into the moment with you blessing the Lord and encouraging one another. 

     Tim's last album Cast My Cares received a large amount of radio play and his goal with that album was to make believers of Jesus actually become followers of Jesus.  Not to just go through the set motions of how we are supposed to act, but to engage the world drawing them to Christ.  On Awake Our Souls Tim shares what his ultimate goal was behind the process and selection of songs he passionately captured.

     The opening title track Awake Our Souls is a high-spirited celebration asking God to open our eyes to the fact that the Kingdom of God resides inside of us.  We are carriers of the freedom that is given to the saints who have entered into a relationship with Christ.  In my opinion this song ends way too soon.  I could have used another verse in there somewhere.  It's one of those songs that takes you to a happy place. 

     Another toe tapper is Everywhere I Go, the message in this song is not to be afraid as long as we are walking with Christ. Knowing He is with us in every step we take, which brings comfort in all circumstances.  I couldn't help at one point mixing in the old country hit "Cotton Eyed Joe", and you will never be able to listen to it again without doing that either (If you know the song I am talking about).  This is definitely one you get stuck in your head quite a bit.  With great lyrics and a melody that won't quit this is sure to be a favorite among his fans.

     Tim continues the engaging melody pattern in, Like I've Been Changed.  "When I seek you first who knows what you will bring. Oh Jesus turn me upside down, shape my world till yours is found. Let my life show that I believe."  This song struck a chord with me bringing to remembrance a recent album review I did from Dan Bremnas.  Not that they sound like each other, but both of these guys are very good at creating earworms. 
     
     With all of the album reviews I have done I have come to the conclusion that if you make it through the third song on an album and you are impressed that's a good indication how things are going to progress.  Tim did not change my mind on this philosophy as he delivers throughout the entire album.    

     One video I must share happens to be one of my favorite songs right now.  Sometimes life can be overwhelming and we don't always understand situations and circumstance that we are currently facing. However, we find our way to the center of His grace and mercy placing our soul in His care.  He knows our struggles better than we do and this song although I had already grown to love it, really hit me right in my spirit the other day and has now been deemed my favorite on the album. Without further ado the video below for Rest My Soul.
    

    

     I feel Tim is easily able to express the lyrical components of this album because he is a living over-comer.  Being diagnosed with incurable cancer and fighting this battle for the last fourteen years of his life (told he would only live five by doctors) he doesn't stop that from letting him live freely as a wonderful Father, Husband and demonstrator of the gospel.  Not only does he share his tremendous faith through music, but also through an extended ministry he calls "Motel Church", which you can read about on his Website. 
 

     The Lord instructs us not to weary in well doing.  In The Outcome Tim demonstrates the importance of letting God lead our steps.  "To live the life you've put inside, till your work is done, I surrender the outcome. "  Trusting God with what He knows lies ahead has never been an easy task, but we learn that releasing the reigns to Him gives us joy unspeakable and full of Glory.  

     Right Beside Me, confirms the trust we find in Christ even when we can't see the outcome, we can look back and see that He has never left us.  "I'm here in the cold, in the dark, oh I'm overwhelmed but I'm not alone.  As I fix my eyes on you, I put my hope in you.  I can brave the storm, I can walk the sea.  I can step out on the waves cause your with me."

     Tim has a desire for the living water inside each believer to pour out to others who need to experience the hope we have in Christ.  Spring Up confronts this, questioning if we believe are we truly living it out? "Spring up a well in my soul and let the flood go.  Open the gates every heart and let the river flow.  Till we can see till we believe that you are everything.  All that we need."  

     Though most of the album is filled with higher tempo melodies there are a few beautiful worship songs that are just as challenging to all of us who truly want to become all that God calls us to be. All I Really Want is a beautiful invitation from someone asking God to take complete control of their lives.  "You are welcome to come have your way.  You are welcome to move in this place. Take over my heart, take over my soul, take over my life spirit of God."

     One of my favorite songs, Finally Breathing emotes so much freedom in what one comes to grasp as they embrace surrender.  I truly feel the passion that was lightly wrapped around this lyric and the presentation poured out of his heart. "If all I do is just survive, I'll waste this one and only life.  Your love moves me to my feet, it's like I'm finally breathing."  This is a truly beautiful work of art.  

     You Are God (That I May), is the only song I have not talked about yet.  First I must say this is a great radio song.  I can see a lot of people being truly blessed by this.  However, this song though simple in lyric, has a profound deep statement that causes me to cry every time I listen to it.  If we as people could grasp a hold of what Tim shares in this song 
no matter what they face they would realize they still win. Though we can be broken down and hurting, struggling and not understand why, God is still good.  

 

"I'll praise you, not that I have to, not that I ought to, but that I may." 

    
     What a privilege we have to worship our God in spirit and in truth.  No matter what our current circumstances may look like, one thing we can always count on is that He already knows the outcome and just trust Him.  All I can say is allow Tim's new album to Awake Your Soul, and try to catch him on tour with Mercy Me through November 14th.

 “We talk about all these things I’ve known about my whole life — like freedom in Jesus and overwhelming joy — but I’ve never known it until now and it’s just this awakening in my soul. The goal of this record is to invite people into a new reality of the Kingdom of God that is around us all the time.” -Tim Timmons

 

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Sidewalk Prophets Delivers Something Different

     On August 28th, 2015 Sidewalk Prophets released Something Different through Word Label Group . For those who have been following these young men since they hit the waves in 2009 with their first album, These Simple Truths you will not be disappointed with the new addition. With this being their fourth album, including Merry Christmas To You (great stocking gift by the way), fans patiently waited for the album reveal.

Big Dan Taking Care Of Business in Hillsboro, Ohio

     By "new addition" I am also referring to "Big Dan" or so seems to be this young man's nickname given by the "band elders". I have to give a quick shout out to Daniel Macal, he had some big shoes to fill and this young man has went above and beyond. 

     He fits in perfectly with the rest of these talented guys and let me just say, since I have seen him live in action he can definitely carry his own weight!  Rock on Big Dan! 

     The first hit off the new album Prodigal, delivers an incredible testimony of the redemptive power we find in Christ in a celebratory melody.  No matter what we've done, or where we have been He's standing there with arms open wide to welcome us back into His loving arms. Registering in the top five of Christian music charts since it's release is no surprise!  

Official Prodigal Video

     One of the most creative songs for me personally is If You Only Knew.  It's written as a contemporary conversation ballad between a simple person as you or I with their Heavenly Father responding to some heartfelt questions and desires. It made me get choked up the first time I heard it, which seems to be a skill these guys have with lyrics. 

 "All you need's a little faith. What about what I deserve? Well that's the beauty of my grace. What about my debt. I've already paid the cost. What about my sin? You see I nailed to the cross. You were never meant to handle all this on your own Just give me everything you have inside And let it go."

Dave Has Such a Powerful Gift in His Voice

     The title track, Something Different actually surprised me. I thought to myself, "Wow they are rocking it out a bit here." The exceptional thing about this album is that they have maintained the powerful testimony of faith in lyrics and still provide something different (pun intended) in every song.  

     After jamming out to a message about how people are supposed to see something different in us, they come at you with power ballad Everything In Awe. I cannot begin to count how many times I have skipped to this song repeatedly. It has nothing to do with the fact that it's one of my favorite songs. Well, OK you got me it probably is for that very reason, but who can deny the majesty of our Almighty Father? Not to mention the fact that Dave kills the passionate power vocals at the end that they build up to.  

     To Live As Christ conveys a sentiment of great faith especially in the times we live in today. We are all called for such a time as this to pick up our cross and lead people to Christ. "For me to live is Christ to die is gain.  My great desire is to be with you, but this is the place you chose for me, this is the place you chose for me. To lift my cross and give everything.  This is the time you gave to me."

     One of the most important aspects of the body of Christ is that we become united together for purposes far greater than we can comprehend.  Sisters and Brothers shares this emotion with cheerful enthusiasm. 

     Ain't Nobody (Till You're Loved) is a jubilant tune that reminds Dave of his time living in Hawaii.  I must say I am a bit jealous he used to live there. My husband and I visited awhile back and my husband didn't want to come back home, so this is his favorite song on the album.  Mainly because Dave wore a leis around his neck when we seen them perform it at Rock The Smokies . 

      Sometimes we all face difficult situations and circumstances. However, with God His word says anything is possible. Impossible encourages those who may be struggling with staying hopeful or doubting His sufficiency. "Some would say it's foolish, stepping on the waves. Some would say it's over when you're buried in the grave. We're calling all the dreamers, with passion in their eyes. Calling all believers out into the light. Even when it's hopeless, out of our control just let go, watch our God do The impossible, the impossible. Everything is possible."

     I'd Rather Have You and Closer (featuring Tamela Mann) are certain to be favorites from those who purchase the album. These two songs really brought some new soulful sound that I really enjoyed myself. Lyrically they both emphasize how important it is to focus on growing closer to God regardless of what other people chase, we have to seek Him first and we will be blessed.  Don't miss these gems they are remarkable and Tamela and Dave bring down the house...or the car wherever you may be listening to Closer at.

     There are several messages on Something Different that can minister to people on so many different levels.  Go For It encourages you to step out in faith and lay everything you have out there for God to use.  Keeping your eye on the prize and holding steadfast in your faith.  

     Solider On is zealous battle cry to push on through trials and tribulations no matter what may come our way.  Rising in the name of the Lord, refusing to wave a flag of surrender.  "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.  We got to soldier on, we will soar on wings like eagles."

     The most poetic deeply searching number on this album is definitely won by Homeless Heart.  Anyone who can look back on their life and reflect these emotions expressed through every lyric in this song will be moved by this message.  I can see many people who have possibly lost their way with God connecting so deeply with this song that it reconnects them to Him knowing they are not the only one who has been where they are now.  For this cause I am going to post the lyric video below.  

Ben jamming in Hillsboro, Ohio

     It's very difficult for me to pinpoint what my absolute favorite song is off this album simply because there are so many different styles and messages.  
     The only way I can decide is by returning to the night a few months back when I seen them live in Hillsboro, Ohio and they performed Come To The Table. My heart is grieved for those who don't know our Lord and Savior. I could not help but weep when in that public festival they blasted these vocals. I thought of the all-inclusive invitation that Christ offers and my heart spilled out in tears. I began to think of everyone walking around and standing there unaware of how much God has already given to them if they would just open their hearts and receive Him and come to the table.  Hands down most powerful song on this album and probably one of the best songs they have ever created. 

"To the thief and to the doubter. To the hero and the coward. To the prisoner and the soldier. To the young and to the older. All who hunger, all who thirst. All the last and all the first. All the poppers and the princess. All who fail you've been forgiven. All who dream and all who suffer. All who loved and lost another. All the chained and all the free. All who follow, all who lead. Anyone who's been let down. All the lost you have been found. All who have been labeled right or wrong. To everyone who hears this song, Ooh Come to the table. Come join the sinners you have been redeemed. Take your place beside the Savior. Sit down and be set free"

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                                         DAN                       BEN                              DAVE                       JUSTIN                           CAL

     I remember hearing Ben say at a concert recently that this is the type of album he's been hoping they would make for a really long time. Considering they have a blast on stage when they are performing is a good sign that he is completely satisfied with what they have created!  For those who have yet to buy the album if you can't tell by now I highly recommend it and make sure to Catch Them Live Near You!

     If you have a testimony about how Sidewalk Prophets has ministered to you please message me on our Glorified Pitstop Facebook Page. I would love to share it with others who read this.

Where The Light Is Shines Bright!

Dan Bremnes Releases His New Album 

"Where The Light Is"

     Where The Light Is, has definitely shined bright on this young British Columbia singer/songwriter. With a passion for all aspects of music and a heart that loves the Lord Dan Bremnes is beginning to see his dreams unfold. 
 

     I just so happened to be musically introduced to this talented young man who opened up for Casting Crowns in Ohio recently.  They seem to have a habit of introducing me to people whose music I already like but haven't connected the name to the songs yet.

     After signing with Capitol CMG and Sparrow he released his current single Beautiful in 2014 which you can currently hear still riding the Christian Radio waves.  This song expresses how God changes our perspective when we truly see His plans for our lives.  "You changed me from what I used to be, opened my eyes so I can see you're making this life so beautiful."
 

     Dan is no stranger to live performance or studio recording and to be honest he sounds just as good live as he does on his album. Dan's Mother, Lillis always encouraged him to chase after his dream.  I'm sure she is smiling down on him as he celebrates with his beautiful wife and child applauding as her son released his album on July 9, 2015.
      The title track  Where The Light Is (video below) is actually one of my favorite songs. As his latest release people are really going to start connecting the dots to this amazing new talent in the industry.  I love the lyrics and Dan's vocals are spot on.  I was actually surprised when he sang this live, it was the first time I heard it and I was highly impressed. Those are not easy notes to hit especially for a guy and he knocked it out of the park. 
 

     Heart on Fire is an up beat tune about a person who wants God to set them ablaze for Him. This song is simply one of those ones you instantly hum along to the first time you hear it by the second chorus.  "Surround me, consume me, there's nothing that I want more than to be completely surrendered, devoted, yeah I'm all yours.  You're all I'm living for."

     One of the softer melodies, In His Hands is a beautiful rendition of how God is in control of everything. Sharing some powerful moments in his own personal life Dan sets the picture for others displaying all things, sorrowful and joyful God sees them all.  Not only does He see them but He is with us all the while. "So many things I don't understand, but He is God and He knows all of them. He's got the whole world in His hands.  He's reaching out let us run to Him."

 

     During the concert intermission Dan made himself available with Niko Xidas (drums not pictured) and Drew Middleton (keyboards/guitar) to meet with fans and take photos.  My friend Christy and I had our friend Jeff take the photo below.  We all enjoyed the concert so much and it was such a blessing to have the opportunity to meet these gifted young men. 

L-R Drew Middleton, Christy, Me, Dan Bremnas

 

     I couldn't wait to listen to the whole album after hearing him sing Born Again live.  This is a call to the whole body of Christ to step up to the plate.  "Give me a heart that beats brand new.  Give me eyes that search for you. Every day, every step till my final breath I wanna live like I've been born again."

     He Knows is another song that shows how far Dan can push his vocals.  This song is so encouraging to those who question difficulties in life. Beautifully delivered in a message that helps you find comfort in situations that we may not understand. Some of the best lyrics on the album this is sure to be one of the favorites by his fans.  I know it is for me anyways and I would call myself a fan now."He knows every pain, every tear you've cried.  Every single part of you. He knows every doubt, every fear that you fight, the battles you've been going through."

     We all go through different stages in our lives creating moments through music that we relate to for one reason or another more so than others. While reviewing this album I happened upon track seven, Wide Open quite literally. This song wins my favorite award.  Recently stepping out in faith to try to follow the direction I believe God wants me to go this song just hit home.  Not to mention it's just in every aspect fantastic.  Lyrically, vocally and melodically this song could not be any better. "Well I'm a little afraid of what I don't know.  I know You're here and You won't let go.  If I step out would you catch my fall?  Whatever You want I'm wide open."

 

      I still cannot get over the fact that when I seen Dan open up for Casting Crowns how much he looked like Nick Fradiani (pictured to the right) who won American Idol this past season. I mean really? What do you think? Am I freaking out? I thought wait a second is that Nick? (My brief sanity check)

      So anyways, moving along with this brilliantly crafted album. Produced by a list of talented writers and producers there is not a doubt in my mind this album will exceed the expectations of many listeners.  

    Faith Is, reminds me quite a bit of something you would hear from Mercy Me. Hesitating to move waiting on direction from God is something we all struggle with at times, but God's promises are true to His children if we just step out in faith. "Into the unseen, God you can take me. Into the place where my world and Yours meet. Silence my doubt and let all I am be found in the place where my world and Yours meet."

     Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy.  Holding onto past mistakes and past regrets.  God's grace and mercy hung on that cross for your forgiveness. Over is a reminder that all that stuff that keeps weighing you down is history.  "It's over, yesterday is washed away, so go ahead and turn the page leave the past where it's at.  The cross has covered that, it's over."

     One thing I Am Sure of is that you will love this song and this entire CD.  This is definitely going to be on the radio eventually and actually would be a fantastic corporate worship song for churches to use.   It's a proclamation to the truth of God's word.  "I place my hope, in the truth I know. No matter what this life may bring.  Your love will not let go, I am sure."

     Closing out this album Dan slows down the pace with At Your Feet (Surrender).   This song made me think of Sanctus Real  and a lot of their worship songs that I have fell in love with over the years.  It's raw and simple and heartfelt, you simply cannot deny the connection to the lyric. "I lay my life down at your feet. God of mercy, you are worthy I give you every part of me."  

       If you are a Christian music fan and Dan Bremnas has not made it on your radar, this is your fellow sister sending out a signal. I noticed while scoping out his Tour Schedule that he's going to be joining some amazing artists! The longest tour he will be on will be All the Earth is Holy Ground Tour  (video below) with Tenth Avenue North and Sidewalk Prophets. That's one I am going to have to try to catch! I would recommend you checking out when they are heading your way also!  Maybe I'll meet you at one of them and be able to share your testimony along with the review!
 

 

 
     This album is certain to shine into your spirit and awaken strength and passion inside your heart.  Be Blessed and be a blessing! 

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Casting Crowns Tour With Kyle Sherman and Dan Bremnes

Amazing Night of Worship and Amazing Testimony

     On July 11, 2015 Casting Crowns traveled to Huber Heights, Ohio to ring praises through the brand new Rose Music amphitheater. Opening for the group was the British Columbia native Dan Bremnes.

    I have always found it quite interesting that each time I catch a Casting Crowns concert they are introducing me to a face of someone whose music I already like but just have not connected a name to it.

     Dan wins that special award tonight, in 2014 that award went to For King & Country and they walked away with 3 K-love Fan Awards this year so Dan is following in some pretty promising footsteps. Though there are several musicians on his latest album, this particular evening he was joined by Drew Middleton on keyboard/guitar and Niko Xidas was playing drums.

    
     He also has a new album out titled Where the Light is released June 9, 2015. I was familiar with his song Beautiful, which is also on the WOW hits 2015 album. In my opinion we are just seeing the surface of possibilities for this young man. He was passionate in his performances and sharing his heartache of the unexpected loss of his Mother. 

     I was unaware of the fact that Mr. Kyle Sherman was going to be a part of this concert because I did not see that on the advertisement. With that being said it was an unexpected blessing.  I remember meeting this young man last year when he was touring with The Afters.

     Kyle has got to be one of the friendliest musicians I have met and you can tell he has a blast on stage leading everyone in worship.  He recently completed a brand new album titled Already Here consisting of several original songs and a few covers. The album is set to release late August or early September but you can pick up pre-releases at some concert venues he attends. I loved how he incorporated the audience in his catchy song Holy, you just can't help but sing along.  Keep your eyes open for my album review later this month!  For now you can see his first video off the new album, You Said My Name (below).

   
     One of the most amazing things about Casting Crowns is that when they are on stage they make you feel like you are at church with them.  You can tell that these wonderful men and women of God enjoy being so involved in their home churches because they seem to exuberate so much natural passion in what they do. 

     There is a quality in the genuineness that they bring to the stage that is admirable.  In a time when I feel Christian's have an issue distinguishing between performance and praise this is a group that puts their heart out there in all they do. The worship and spirit in what they present to their fans and fellow brothers and sisters speaks for itself. 

     Mark Hall, who is the well known lead singer of the group always shares wonderful stories with the crowd. Not only through his wonderful sense of humor but also through the testimonies and stories that have birthed some of the greatest songs in Christian music history. A lot of the songs that they share on their albums are created through life lessons and segments of teachings that take place at their home churches. It's no wonder that so many of their songs are relatable to such a vast number of the Body of Christ. 

     Throughout the evening it appeared that the Crowns could have just started playing the instruments and the crowd would have sang all the songs without them having to sing a peep. There was such an awesome echoing factor in the amphitheater during Thrive when it came to "Oh-Oh-Oh-Oh (ah you get the picture)" that sounded fantastic. 

     Before the brief intermission Mark begin to speak about his recent battle with cancer. For those who are unaware of the situation, in March of this year he had his right kidney removed due to a cancerous mass his doctor found. Thankfully everything seems to be healing now but during that season the group was still on tour and he said many of their songs were like he was singing to himself. The lyrics were speaking directly to him and little did he know God would turn them around to give him strength.

     Casting Crowns are a huge influence in many Christians lives with songs that inspire and encourage. Through the years seeing the spiritual kinship that fans have formed with the band, I cannot imagine how close the band has come to each other. In this photo I think I captured a glimpse of the love that this group has for Mark and how thankful they are along with the rest of the body of Christ that he is in the recovery stages now and able to sing again. Praise God.

     One thing I did before going to the concert that weekend was pray about who God wanted me to speak with to share their testimony in the review.  I didn't get a response until we walked into the entrance that day and I heard Him whisper, "You will sit next to them."  I began doubting my discernment when I walked down the aisle to my seat and realized I was sitting next to a very young girl between 9-12 years old.  I thought to myself, how in the world could a girl that young have a testimony?
 

     I began to tear up as I seen these young kids next to me raising their hands praising the Lord.  I thought to myself how badly their generation needs them to shine that bright light into such a lost world.  During the time Mark was talking about his recent struggle he asked everyone in the audience who has overcome or fought a battle with cancer to please stand.

     In that moment one of the young girls sitting next to me stood up prosthetic leg and all.  My heart began to break as God revealed to me that age does not carry the testimony; but the heart reveals the trials and the triumphs. 

     Dawn Thomas brought her three kids Kierstin, Faith and Hunter  to the concert along with Mickayla (left). After speaking with her I found out she was very close friends with Mickayla's Mother Renee.  I wanted to make sure it was OK with her family to speak with them and share her testimony before going into much detail at the concert that night, so Dawn and I exchanged phone numbers.  

     I remember standing there talking to Mickayla who I had initially stereotyped as a "little girl, who couldn't possibly have a testimony at such a young age."; to seeing her as a strong young woman who has become an amazing inspiration to others. That night at the concert was the first time she had heard Praise You In The Storm and it really ministered to her.
 

     Grandma was the families glue and they all draw strength from her.  It's no doubt as you speak to them why they are encouraged and held up by her.  She has overcome some tremendous battles herself.  A fighter of MS and victorious over breast cancer amongst many others situations God prepared Sheila to speak life into all of them from day one. 

     At the age of nine Mickayla mentioned to her Mother that her leg was hurting her.  The first instinct most parents have in this situation is to write them off as growing pains and give them some tylenol.  Dustin and Renee were no different than anyone else and as parents of course you don't want to think it could be anything else. It wasn't much later when the pain became more intense and her leg began to swell.  A visit to the ER at Upper Valley led to her being transferred to Dayton Children's. 
 

L-R Mickayla with her parents Dustin and Renee and her with her sister Caitlin on the right

     Two days before starting fourth grade, this vibrant young child was about to be told she had cancer. At first Mickayla was upset asking "Why Me?" she didn't fully understand what was going on and the whole family was initially just in shock.  Renee said, "You hear about other people's kids with cancer and never think it is going to hit home." 

     The initial treatment involved 12 rounds of chemotherapy. However due to a wait period to be approved for a 70,000 dollar port it took 13 rounds of chemo and several hospital stays and blood transfusions.  The internal process did not take and her ankle deteriorated around her calf causing the discussion of a prosthetic limb. Dr. Mayerson who is one of the highest rated cancer surgeons in the country discussed the procedure with Mickayla and talked to her about how he trusted God to guide his hands. 

In memory of Jessica Joy Rees 4/8/99-1/5/2012

     Another thing that inspired Mickayla was the Jessie Rees Foundation.  While Jessie was fighting two brain tumors as a ten year old girl she asked her parents to create joy jars to give to other children fighting cancer to shine a light of love on them and encourage them through their difficult journey.  Though Jessie is no longer with us, her legacy lives on and her spirit still shines into the lives of others like Mickyala who received one of the joy jars. 

     Mickayla loves inspirational songs and they increased the fight within this already positive young girls heart.  She said, "I still continued to thank God because it could have always been worse. It broke my heart to see all those little babies in there fighting for their lives and they didn't even understand what was happening to them.  At least I did understand and I was able to be encouraged through a lot of prayer and other people praying for me all over the world."
 

Follow Mickayla's Journey and encourage her on facebook!

     As a local spokesperson for Walmart who strives to earn money for Dayton Children's Cancer Center , Mickayla continues to encourage others.  The fight that she battles everyday as a young woman gives strength and encourages not only her family and other children but grown adults who confront the same horrible disease. 

     As someone who loves to sing and dance she has shared the song Stronger by Kelly Clarkson in her church. A young woman at the age of 12 she decided this month to be baptized in Christ.

     Coming forth out of the water she will be rebirthed into the mission she was designed to walk in. A testimony for generations to see that her fight is not in vain. She has come out stronger more aware of the presence of God and the comfort we receive when we call out to Him in our time of need.

Mickayla with her Grandmother Sheila

     One of the things her parents and Grandmother Sheila wanted to ask all parents is to listen to your children.  If they are sore and the pain seems to continue to persist take them to the doctor.  The sooner you catch a problem the better chance you have of fighting it.   Though Mickayla will always have to go in for check ups she is positive of one thing, God will comfort her and she feels blessed that those who support her on her prayer page continue to remember her and others who fight this fight in faith!

     I asked Mickayla if she was standing in front of a young girl getting ready to enter the 4th grade who was just diagnosed with cancer what she would say to her and this was her response.
 

     "Cancer does not care about a person's age when it attacks you.  So I would say this to anyone facing this battle. Don't ever feel like you are alone, because you are not.  Don't ever give up no matter what.  Always continue to pray and encourage others who are fighting just as hard or harder than you.  I am thankful no matter how hard it has been for me, I am still alive and not everyone gets that chance to keep fighting."
 

     In a time when it seems Christians are undergoing so much persecution for their faith it's hard to describe what happened that wonderful evening as Casting Crowns exited the stage.  As the crowd echoed Glorious Day (video below) in unison it was a picture if only for a brief moment in time of the unity of the Body of Christ and the spirit of God demonstrated from breast to breast among His Bride.  Those moments are hard to explain if not personally experienced.  There was no denying the presence of the spirit of God that was there that day and one day He's coming back again.  Amen!   

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." -Revelation 21:4

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