BRAND NEW BROADCAST!!!
We enjoyed a wonderful time being hosted by The Good Life 45 on November 15, 2012. James McKey and Robert Elkins joined me for a spectacular performance of 'God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen' and title song 'Presence' from the album 'Presence.' I was also able to share about our recent accident and God's protection... what a blessing to proclaim to all who hear that He and His Presence are REAL!!!
Please take the time to watch and listen... I pray it will touch your heart and soul and increase your faith. Love you all and enjoy this preview to Christmas at the Good Life!!
WATCH NOW
*****
It has been a week... and I am still processing what an AMAZING absolutely INCREDIBLE and BLESSED Night of Worship last Sunday, November 4, 2012. When God shows up, there's just no other explanation. Faith Hall was PACKED, and the Holy Spirit was at work. There are no words, really... but I'm going to do my best to express thanks and credit where credit is due.
First of all, Thank you LORD for being there. Without you, we can do NOTHING.
Second, I want to thank First Orlando led by Pastor David Uth and the worship ministry led by Jon Marks. You believed in me enough to grant me a night to plan and share 'Prelude to Christmas.' Thank you for investing in me.
Third, my family. Tim, Zak and Dillon... you all were SUCH a hit, and how special it was to introduce my family and play together for the glory of God. What a dream come true.
Fourth, my stage team. I am without words. The band...Robert Elkins, James McKey, Mark Poole, Doug Pierce, and Doug Mathews.... I've never heard you all play better. The singers... Angie Elkins, Sharon Coffey, and Lindsey Guillot. How beautiful are your voices, and even more your hearts. Mandy David, you are in a class by yourself... the work of your signing hands is beautiful. Choir... Roberto Bruno, Christie George, Marian Smith, Kacie Melvin, Larissa Galloway, Deejay Staana. Thank you for your enthusiasm and your love. My mom, Kathy Rodgers, on cello, and Bob Franklin on trumpet. You both added so very much. Dancers... Xio Seliga, Janeen Livings, Michal Lynn Tweedie, and Amanda Cox. How much fun was that? I love pretending like I can dance for a few steps, but you all accomplish so many amazing things with so much grace. A special thanks to Mandy and Janeen for the incredible duet on 'Breath of Heaven/Mary Did You Know?'... ok, TEARS!!!
Fifth, my support team... George Livings, thank you for producing and calling the show. You have an incredible gift and I appreciate you using it for God's glory and also to help me. Teri Hummel and Lauren Johnson... thank you for making the screens rock. Chris Clatterbuck, you and I both know that without you, nobody would hear anything worth hearing. The stage can be full of talent, but without your gifts, nobody would hear it. I am in awe. And speaking of that, Jeff Atkisson, without you, nobody would see it... or enjoy looking at it. Your lighting talents amaze me. Derrick Mackenzie, you and I go way back. I appreciate your servant heart and always being there to help with whatever is needed. Jared, thank you for helping also! Bobby Falconnier, you gave of your time and talent to help the program go live on the stream, and I thank you along with an unseen crowd that tuned in. Joan Peterson, you did so much in preparation for this event, most of which I don't even know... but I do know that you were responsible for getting the promo done (kudos also to Jared Wells for poster design), and that you made the stage look beautiful. Suzie Gentry, thank you for arranging for all the product tables and all of your people making that area look stunning. Stephanie Mullins, you decorated me!!! Thank you for giving of your time and supporting me 110%, as well as making my eyes sparkle. And my husband, Tim Smith, you never cease to amaze me with the photos you capture. I have never seen anyone catch moments like you. I'm so glad you found me in your lens one day long ago. Not to mention, Mandy's husband Tim David also helping to catch the moments that Tim would have missed while on stage...
My point is, it takes a team. They're probably tired of hearing it, but I mean it every single time. I appreciate everyone who brought their gift to bear on Sunday, November 4. It was special because each person's gift shined and brought God glory.
Anyone wanting to watch the recorded live stream from last Sunday, the Prelude to Christmas Night of Worship has been preserved online thanks to the priceless help of Bobby Falconnier.... Here is the link to Lori Jean Smith and Friends on Ustream.
If you live in the Orlando area or visiting in December, please check out www.singingtrees.org and don't miss the Singing Christmas Trees at First Baptist Orlando! I will be featured in a special number... but even aside from that, trust me, you don't want to miss this program. The team that puts this together are the same talented and gifted people who I just mentioned... and it will definitely knock your Christmas stockings off! Hope to see you there!
*****
GREAT NEWS!!! The Prelude to Christmas Night of Worship with Lori Jean Smith and Friends will be streaming live... only for those at a distance who cannot attend live and in person, please! 
Here is the link for streaming: www.ustream.tv/channel/lori-jean-smith-and-friends or try http://ustre.am/Qf9w to access the stream.
It is going to be an unbelievable night where we will all experience the presence of God in a new and amazing way. Love and blessings to you all! I can hardly wait!
*****
What a blessed and wonderful past few weeks. God has taken me to a number of churches that have been hungry to worship, and I am so excited about what the Holy Spirit continues to do in people with music. That is the part that is beyond explanation... when we worship, God inhabits our praise! I stand amazed, and will continue to serve Him every chance I get.
*****
Happy Summer everyone!!! It has been a lot of fun (much needed) to slow down, take time by the pool or beach or anything else with water nearby, and reflect on what God has done in the past year. I know we always say that time flies, and sometimes it is hard to figure out what on Earth we have done with it. But this year has been different. I know where the time has gone, every moment holding a blessing from God. This time last year, the band and I were getting ready to record 'Presence', and now a year later, God continues to reveal his AMAZING Presence to me... As I fill my calendar with places to join you all in worship around the country this fall and Christmas season, just know I am praying that God will continue to prepare you to experience Him in a fresh, new way! Peace and LOVE!!!
*****
If you are interested in having me come to your church or special event for a concert in 2012-2013 please
email me or click the email link in 'The Loop'... I would love to be a part of your church's worship experience or special celebration!
