We are starting to prepare for our trip to Nepal in February, which brings me to the title of this blog: So Humbled. A few short months ago, a ministry trip to Nepal seemed more like a dream than a reality. We didn’t have the connections, awareness or funds to experience something like this. It is amazing what God has placed before us. Through our friends, Jim & Debbie, we were selected to lead worship at this missionary conference.

It was humbling to step out and ask friends and family to join with us in this ministry. We’re discovering that trust (or lack thereof) is an area that Pam & I are needing to work on. Being of the independent bent, this will surely not be the last chance to grow!

Even more humbling is how God has moved in the hearts of so many and with such generosity. I must say I have mixed emotions about this. I feel so unworthy for all of the support we have received. It’s not that I have a skewed, self-depreciating personal view. It is a deep sense of awe that the Almighty would move people hearts to bless us so. Perhaps it is a deeper glimpse into God’s grace – receiving abundantly more than I deserve. I know of His grace in my head and heart, but seeing it played out so clearly in everyday life is quite humbling. There is great honor and responsibility to be His ambassadors wherever He leads. MaryAnn, a missionary friend, shared her perspective that we are just instruments for God to use. We don’t have control of the situations we are in, just obedient service. I’ve heard that before in Christian circles, but it is coming to life in new ways for us.

Thank you for joining God in this ministry through your prayers, encouragement and giving. You are His hands, His feet, His heart reaching out to man. Thank you for letting us be instruments in your relationship with Him.

Humbly and Gratefully His,

“B”

face nord de la chaîne des annapurnas vue depuis le col du Kang La (5322)- de gauche à droite: Annapurna II, IV, III et Gangapurna |Source=travail personnel |Date=11/2004 |Author= Leridant |Permission= |oth)

Here we go – hang on!

In our previous “adventure letter” we likened our lives to a movie entitled “Brian & Pam’s Extraordinary Adventures,” We mentioned the possibility of several “episodes.” As you recall, episode 1 was about participating in the Inspirational Country Music Conference in Nashville.  You most likely have been following along with us in our blogs and Facebook updates about our trip.  However, if you have not “seen” episode 1 in its entirety, please let us know, we are happy to tell you about it.  Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers during this trip.

It is now time to release Episode II.  We have been invited to lead worship/music for the Annual BEE World (Biblical Education by Extension) Mission Conference in Pokhara, Nepal, February 12-18, 2012. The conference is a time of rejuvenation, connection, education, music & worship for missionaries that serve in restricted countries such as Asia and the Middle East.  I think I would need a whole year of rejuvenation if I were in their position!

Mornings and evenings will consist of mission reports, teaching by Dr. Robert Coleman and worship/music led by Pam and I.  In addition to leading music, if possible, Pam will offer her cosmetology & life coaching skills.

Pam and I are also in the process of seeking additional service opportunities to work with the Nationals before or after the conference.  This may include possibilities such as:  helping with an orphanage, school or farming.  We will keep you updated about what God brings our way.  Below are a few facts you may enjoy.

About BEE World: BEE World is an organization that works primarily in restricted access countries in Asia and the Middle East.  They provide comprehensive, interactive Bible education and training to pastors and church leadership that have no access to Biblical training.  You can learn more about BEE World at http://www.beeworld.org

Mission Conference Location: When we initially learned of the opportunity to go to Nepal, we must confess we really had no idea where it was.  For those of you who are like me – a bit geographically challenged – here is a map.  Nepal is a tiny country area between India and China.  Pokhara is located west of Kathmandu.  It is the second largest city inhabiting approximately 350,000 people.

Scenery: For all you hikers out there you might be interested to know that 3 out of the 10 highest mountains in the world can be viewed quite closely from Pokhara. It is also a base for trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit.  Annapurna is a section of the Himalayas in north-central Nepal that includes mountains that are 8,091 metres (that’s 26,545 ft!) Annapurna is tenth among Earth’s fourteen eight-thousanders – meters that is.   And we thought our Colorado “14ers” were high! Many of the mountains around Pokhara still have medieval ruins dating from the 17^th century.  I’m guessing we won’t be hiking any “8-thousanders or touring any medieval ruins this time.

Additionally, Nepal is among the poorest countries in the world.  Most Nepalese live on $1.00 a day or less and the average yearly income is $200.00.  80% of Nepalese are farmers.  The Nepalese Rupee is the currency and one Rupee is worth approximately 0.01 US.

We feel grateful, excited, and a bit nervous that God is leading us to participate in this adventure.   We have been asking God to present us with something that is so big that we could never accomplish it ourselves.  We asked for it, and now He’s giving it, so we sure aren’t going to back out now! If you’ve ever had to ask for prayer and financial support you know it’s not something that comes easily, at least for us.  So here goes…

We need to enlist a team of people willing to pray for us.  Below are a few specifics:

1. That we would continue to trust God to provide all that is needed for this trip and the next stage in our lives.
2. Opportunities to share His love with missionaries & the Nepalese people.
3. That God would remove any fear or obstacles that might keep us from being fully aware & present to what He is doing now and while on this mission.
4. Wisdom & clarity in how God wants to use this experience to fulfill His greater purpose in our lives & to impact the lives of others.

Next… we need to raise funds for this trip.  The conference is covering our lodging and some meals. We need funds to pay for airfare, additional meals, and funds for lodging and food for our additional time there doing service work.

If you feel prompted to get involved with us in this adventure, one way is to come to a “Going to Nepal- Support Gig” December 9^th, 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Genoa Coffee & Wine -2614 South Timberline Rd #101 Fort Collins, CO. This gig will include special guests – Mike Brown on bass, Andrew Bond on drums, & Kevin Van Winkle (Pam’s brother) on lead.  I will also have my demo cd’s there if you would like to have one. You may also contact us for other donation options.

Words cannot express our gratitude.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Gratefully,

Brian and Pam

Mary James, Tommy Brandt, Greg McDougal, Russ Murphy (not pictured: Chuck Day) Photo by Rick Hoiberg

A fantastic collection of talent and hearts for God!

Another night of fantastic evening showcases finished the schedule for the day. We did gather in the Crown Ballroom after the day’s activities for a late night gathering of musicians and fans. Everyone would arrange the chairs in a big circle and then each musician would have an opportunity to share a song. Sometimes people would join in with singing or playing or sometimes, just listen. I shared “The Wayfaring Stranger” on Tuesday night and Aubree sang “At Last” on Thursday evening. Another fun time!

A highlight of the trip was meeting two producers that the Bullocks had arranged. These were producers that were not associated with ICM. It was a valuable time of discussion and discovery about the music business machine that is Nashville. Thank you so much, Mike & Chris for sharing your valuable time and insight with us! I would love to work with both of you!

The pinnacle of ICM Week is the awards show on Friday night. This year it was held in the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in downtown Nashville – a lovely place!

Schermerhorn Symphony Center - Nashville

We all took a “Hummer” limo ride to the event.

Aubree was a top 5 nominee in two categories: New Artist of the Year & Youth in Music. Although, she didn’t win any awards, I think she is the tops in both of those (of course, I could be just a little biased)!

The evening and ICM week was completed by a Dinner/Reception back at the hotel. Hugs were shared, photos were taken, and contact info was exchanged as we said goodbye to our newest friends and the ICM family.

ICM Week was a quite an experience:  being surrounded by great music and fantastic people; away from the  distractions of everyday life. I parallel this with some youth camps that I attended as a Music/Youth Minister. We needed this time away to relax, reflect and  recharge our music and ministry batteries. Sadly, but realistically, we must  come down from this mountaintop and return to “real life.”  Where to go and what to do now? Well, that  will be another blog for another time! We have much to grasp, sift, sort out and prayerfully consider. We welcome your prayers as God reveals himself and  His direction for us on this new journey! Thanks for riding along!

On the Stage @ ICM Week

Wednesday afternoon, I had another opportunity to share three songs in an acoustic showcase in Maxwell’s Lounge. It was like being back home in some of our fine coffee shops – definitely in my comfort zone! I decided to mix it up a little and shared, “Down on the Farm” and “My God, My Friend,” from my demo CD and my arrangement of “The Wayfaring Stranger.” I also was fortunate to once again accompany the talented Aubree Bullock on a couple of songs. What a fun time!

Maxwell's Lounge, ICM - 2011

Maxwell's w/ Aubree!

With the help of the Bullock’s video and Pam’s work, here are a couple of youtube links of my performances. I hope you enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4OQAFZDPv8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bxm_jwXSmI&feature=related

ICM Week is very interesting and fun. We have already connected with many people who have the same passion for music and sharing that gift with others. It doesn’t seem like a competition, but rather a family gathering where people encourage and support each other. We were gladly welcomed in.

On Tuesday, we attended the Power Source Media appreciation luncheon at the Wildhorse Saloon in Downtown Nashville – great fun, food, music & company.

Brian & "the lovely Aubree"

Aubree & I both performed in the evening showcase on Tuesday evening.  Aubree did a fantastic job. I was fortunate to accompany her on one of her songs. I also was able to share “Far Behind” and “Struggler’s Prayer” in my showcase. Pam said it went very well – one of my best in recent years. I truly hope that the music and the message touched people’s hearts.

On the docket for today: Aubree & I will both be entering the Talent Competition this a.m. and then performing at Maxwell’s Lounge at 5 p.m. for our acoustic showcases.

I want to thank you all for your encouragement, prayers and support. You have been here at ICM week with us and we’ll continue to take you

on this journey that God is leading us on. Blessings!

Pam & I had just decided to make the trek to Nashville for ICM Week. I started collecting a hodgepodge of ideas for possible songs I could write. As I listened to some country music while remodeling, I noticed that many songs spoke of pain, hurt and someone that had “done them wrong.” Being the eternal optimist (or so I have been labeled at times), I was reflecting upon the idea that in God we have a friend: that we can trust, that cares deeply for us, and that embraces us with indescribable love. What a contrast from what we all have experienced in our fellow man at times.

Anyways, back to the story. Most of the inspiration came in the midst of tiling a bathroom for one of our remodeling clients (thanks, Marj!). I would take a few measurements, mark some tiles, and then head outside to cut. As I passed by a table, I would jot down an idea of how God is my friend. What is it in His character that I can cling to, find rest in, experience peace and comfort? After a day of tiling, I had two pages of ideas! Early the next morning, the song took shape. “My God, My Friend” reaches the zenith in the bridge – it is a praise of amazement in how that the God who created the universe would chose to love me with His infinite and indescribable love. WOW! Psalm 8 says,

³ When I consider Your heavens,
the work of Your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which You have set in place,
⁴ what is man that You are mindful of him,
a son of man that You care for him?

***  I just have a hard time wrapping my mind around that! ***

http://imgsrc.hubblesite.org/hu/db/images/hs-1998-18-b-web.jpg

Well, the Demo should be completed by now. A very big thanks is in order to my brother-in-law, Kevin and his band mate, Marty, for all of their hard work in making this happen. You guys rock (figuratively and literally)! Their band is Driving Karma – check them out!

Stay tuned for future blogs from our adventures at ICM Week – starting on the 24^th! Maybe see you there?!!!

Do you ever find yourself struggling like that in your life? I know that I certainly do! From past experience, I know that there are some things in my life that I definitely can’t change without God’s help. O.K., not some things, but all things! My heart cries out to God – “Save me, Lord . . .“ This is where “Struggler’s Prayer” comes from.

(Photo courtesy of Troy Roberts Photography)

A few years ago, I was leading worship at Celebrate Recovery at Crossroads Church in Loveland and was working through a 12 step recovery program. While “playing  around” on my guitar, I came across a haunting, finger-picking motif. It just  flowed naturally. The eeriness of the accompaniment led me to write the lyrics  of “Struggler’s Prayer.” This was a very personal, therapeutic work which I didn’t put  out into the public eye until now. The song has resurfaced in a modified form. I took the lyrics and applied those to another tune that I had been working on. I played both versions of the song for several people. At the suggestion of my friend, Brown Thunder (obviously a stage name – no one would name a baby that), I combined the chorus of “Struggler’s Prayer #1” with the  verse of the new version. It works amazingly well!

I was still hesitant to put this song out there, due to the personal nature of it. However, I decided to record it with the other songs on my demo CD. In a totally unscientific and biased poll, 4 out 5 listeners chose “Struggler’s Prayer” as their favorite song on the demo CD. It definitely has a piercing eeriness that touches the heart strings. I look forward to sharing it with you!

(On a side note: I strongly recommend Celebrate Recovery to everyone – since we all have hurts, habits & hang-ups in our lives that keep us from being who God created us to be!)

Coming Up Next:   Part 4: “My God, My Friend”

Down on the Farm.

Sisters, Julie & Diane and myself (literally on top of old "Smokey!")

I wanted to write a song that tells of my farm upbringing and some of the lessons that I learned from that. However, I decided  against mentioning some of what I learned: from my sisters tying me up to the yard light pole for a game of “piranha” (which, I let them); from wrestling with my brother until “the fang” move came out (yes, it was just like it sounds); or from playing an enthusiastic round of ”carmie apples” (don’t ask). I think those lessons are best discovered with the help of a trained therapist!

Seriously, I learned so much from my parents, family and friends while growing up on the farm in Iowa. These lessons helped shape my character and made me a much better person as a result. They have become an integral part of who I am. The old saying rings true that “you can take the boy out of the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the boy.”

Coming Up Next:   Part 3: “Struggler’s Prayer”

Why did I write Far Behind? What is the background or the inspiration? What in the world am I trying to say in it? About two years ago, this song started from noodling around up the neck of my guitar. A four chord progression quickly took root in my mind. Now, what to do with that? It sat there for a few months until Pam & I spent a week in Breckenridge, CO. One evening, I sat down and  tried to develop that motif. Things started happening! This may sound cliché, but I really feel like God gave me this song. Of course, He inspires all that I do; but with this one, it was very apparent.

I started writing with the idea of being tired of the struggles of this world and my longing to find peace and rest with God in the next life. However, I think God wanted me to take it in another direction. With the freedom that God gives through his grace, I don’t have to leave this world to find peace. He can break the hold (the “chains”) that past hurts, fears & regrets have over me. I can still live in this world and yet leave “this old world of sorrow far behind . . . .” This song takes an interesting turn from the opening to the end.

Far Behind is in the key of E, but is it major or minor? It’s hard to tell, since the predominant chord of the song is an E with no 3^rd. (That’s for all of us music nerds!)

Far Behind is the song I will be performing at ICM in the talent competition.  I hope that it encourages you when you hear it!

Coming Up Next:   Part 2: “Down on the Farm”

These boots are not only fashionable (in my “Colorado mind”), but they symbolize a conscious decision in my life; a decision to consider the passions and gifts that God has given me and pursue those more. Music and ministry are an integral part of who I am. They are two areas that, in the past, have taken a backseat to other commitments in my life. Now, the challenge: to make my balancing act a life-style change. “These boots were made for walking” and that’s just what I’ll do – I’m moving forward.

I’ll keep you posted from the teeter-totter that is my life!

Brian