Well six months ago, Steffi Kobl emailed me with this crazy idea to come to Germany and sing at her church – CZO.  I told her it sounded like a great idea and I would pray about it to see if God would give the green light.  Then she emailed me again.. her gears had not stopped turning… and suggested I not only sing at CZO, but also at other churches and organizations in Europe.  Wow!  I thought… God was developing a European “Not Ashamed” tour without my even asking.  Is He an AWESOME God or what?  Needless to say, I was excited as the plans developed over several months time.  The green light was evident in the open doors!

 So, here it was July 2, 2000 – the night so many, including myself, had been waiting for.  Time for me to step to the front and share the message God had given me.  Our schedule had been quite busy up to this point, and I did not know if I would have the energy needed to minister… but as the time drew closer, I have to tell you that my level of excitement rose, and God provided all the energy I needed.  I knew it really had to be HIM doing it and not me… as I always remind myself – I am but a vessel. 

 To be honest, Steffi is the one I was worried about.  She had been soooo busy with events other than my concerts, and her sleep had been minimal.  She was translating for my concert, so her wits had to be about her… and I did not know if this would be so.  But as we prayed prior to the concert, I knew God would provide all we needed!!  And, of course, He did.  Steffi did a fantastic job translating my testimony and prayers.  We actually had quite a good time working together in this way for the Lord.

 It was quite an overwhelming feeling of joy when the people clapped for an encore.  I had never experienced this before… and it brought me much joy to sing another song for them.  When I asked which one they would like to hear, they yelled out “erste Lied”… meaning “the first song”… Walk of a Winner!  What fun we had!!

 After the concert, I found it rather interesting how many people approached me and told me not to be discouraged about the lack of response during the altar call.  Each person, although approaching me at different times, stated that Germans are very “inward” people and do not express much on the outside.  They said that I should take faith that lives were touched deeply…  that a lot had happened on the inside.  I thought that was so sweet of them to tell me this – and I received it as a gift from God that He was working in their hearts… I wouldn’t always have the privilege of seeing it outwardly at the concerts.  Hallelujah and Amen!!

 I also received prophetic words that were affirmations regarding my life’s path.  I always try to remain open when listening to each person that approaches me.  Such listening skills enable me to minister to their needs more specifically as I pray… and also, I never want to miss a word from the Lord for my life.  He uses all kinds of avenues to speak to us, if we are listening.  Sometimes in the hustle and bustle after the concert, I don’t focus enough on listening clearly to one person… and this is something I am working to better in myself. 

 I had two very dear ladies from the church pray for me.  God always provides the means for my Spirit to be refreshed when I am emptying myself for His glory.  Thank you Lord.

 Another major thrill was in a conversation I had with a man who desires to GO!  He shared his hunger for something more in his walk with God.  His job, his service at the church… it was all good – but he had an ache inside for something more… to reach the lost!  Wow!  Awesome!!  God willing, he will be leaving for YWAM in Philippines… eager to find his place in reaching the lost for Christ.  Hallelujah for people who ARE NOT ASHAMED of their love for Jesus, but rather, who are EXCITED to tell of His great love!!  I pray for more hearts like this – giving up everything that is comfortable to be in God’s will – to make disciples of the nations!!  YESSSS!!  I can’t help but overflow with exuberant joy as I recall this conversation and the excitement in his eyes to seek hard after God and to reach the lost.  It only added to the fire I already have!!

 On that note, I will close this session of sharing… and many thanks to everyone at CZO who played a part in making it a success for the Lord.  Special thanks to Martin, left (sound engineer) and Dieter, right (photographer for the concert) and of course, my friend and my prayer partner – Steffi! 

 Jesus said “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”  Matthew 28:19-20.

 Until my return to USA –

May everyday offer you a sunset this beautiful... from Bavaria to you...

 Tammy