Are you feeling unsettled? Are you searching for meaning? Throughout history, extreme conditions have led ordinary people out of obscurity and into great purpose. A purpose not born of self promotion or desire, instead a prominence born of duty and faith.
In the book of Esther, we find a woman whom history would have ignored if not for her courage to answer the call of duty in a time of crisis.
You may be familiar with the story of Queen Esther, she was a Jewish woman (most likely a teenage girl) who was chosen, by the godless king of the Persian empire, as the replacement for his rebellious wife. Shortly after Esther's appointment, a plot to eradicate the Jews from the empire was launched by a pompous government official named Haman. Mordecai, Esther's uncle, discovered the plot and implored Esther to intercede on behalf of her people. Up to this point, Esther had not revealed her heritage and was afraid to approach the king. Mordecai's words may be among the most important aspects of this account:
Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Mordecai knew the promises of God would not allow the Jewish people to be eliminated. Mordecai knew God would bring deliverance for His people, furthermore, Mordecai was convinced deliverance would come through the intervention of his niece, who was elevated to the position of Queen for this very purpose.
Today, we are facing a crisis none could have predicted. What is God speaking to your heart right now? Do you have a special talent or ability for such a time as this? Are you being prompted by God to step out and do something different, for such a time as this?
Peter stepped out of the boat into tumultuous conditions. David stepped onto the world stage, out of obscurity, only when a monster threatened God's people. Gideon, a virtual nobody, stepped up and delivered his people from enemy hordes.
Are you sensing God's call to step out in faith for such a time as this?
Queen Esther did not just jump and run, she spent a good deal of time in prayer and she enlisted the prayers of others. What is the burden God is laying on your heart? Does it seem too big to accomplish on your own? It probably is, however, this is when the true meaning of Philippians 4:13 comes into play:
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me
If God is calling you to do something, He will provide you with all the resources, strength and personnel you will need to accomplish His purpose.
Make no mistake, God does not need you, He does want you however. As Mordecai stated, God will accomplish His purpose, with or without you. Yes but, at what cost to you? Are you willing to sacrifice peace and purpose on the altars of fear or sloth?
The Revolutionary, Thomas Paine, said, "these are the times that try men's souls." Is God trying your soul today? Extraordinary times call for ordinary people who are willing to allow God to do extraordinary things through them. Are you up for the calling? Are you ready to step up and out? Are you ready to be used by God for such a time as this?
Now is the time and here is the place for you to put your faith into action and allow God to use you for such a time as this.
Now, go live as Christ... and give the devil hell!
Once in a while, something new and cutting edge comes along, something which defies tradition and stands up in defiance against the mundane. The much anticipated release of Dabster Gentlemen's second album, Answers, is a refreshing breath of fresh air. Answers remains true to the genre defying style fans fell in love with in Death or Life , this time, adding a little electric into the mix.
Uber talented master composer Myles Barfield creates a spirited musical experience, combined with the distinct vocals and lyrical profundity of the legendary Dale Thompson. Added to the mix is new comer Skipp Phipps, adding his talents to this already extraordinary collaboration to deliver something truly unique and most importantly, honoring to God.
From the first track - Take Me To The River, the listener is immersed in a fun, nostalgic, romp imbued with the innocence of the Jesus movement of the early 1970's. A wise choice for an opener as it immediately catches the listener's attention. The most single worthy song on the album sets the pace for what is to come and what follows does not disappoint.
First Breath Today, the second track has a definite southern rock/mountain music vibe. This fun rocker demonstrates the versatility in Barfield's compositional prowess.
Next up, Strange Fire is rollicking fun, and a bit tongue in cheek, lyrically reminiscent of Thompson's solo work with the Kentucky Cadillacs.
Dabster slows down and gets serious for a moment with Miracle which is a bit darker and contemplative. Single worthy in it's own right, Miracle demonstrates the depth and strength of the bands talent.
Hallowed Be Thy Name is two parts sacred hymn one part praise and worship and evokes a style reminiscent of early Native American musical traditions. Definitely a top prospect for second single.
Three Don'ts gets a little Calypso. A rollicking reminder of our standing in Jesus Christ.
Jesus Knows Where We Are is a nod to Dale Thompson's roots as a rock and roll superstar, recounting a show so loud, the police came and shut it down. This track sports a funky groove reminiscent of Bob Dylan's 115 Dream.
More Like Jesus is a veritable poetry slam set to a most fitting musical background.
Straight Is The Gate is an easy flowing jazzy piece reminiscent of Henry Mancini's Pink Panther work.
Of Halloween has an 80's pop rocker sound and takes a bold stand on a sometimes controversial subject. This track musically captures a fun, eerie tone, evoking childhood memories of Disney's Haunted Mansion.
The album wraps up where it began with a little nostalgia. Bonus track All Roads Lead Home, is a reminiscence of a more innocent time. Barfield lays the perfect musical foundation as we get a sneak peek into Dale Thompson's musical heritage.
Answers will appeal to the casual listener as well as the most discerning connoisseur. Compositionally eclectic, Dabster Gentlemen daringly blends styles most would never deign attempt and they pull it off. Combining the, decidedly not hard rock, compositions with the raspy powerfully high range vocals of Dale Thompson produces a fun yet musically mature experience no one could have predicted.
If you are looking for a musical experience like none other, or are looking to add to your Dabster Gentlemen collection click here
