It was one of those mornings that reminds us of why we do what we are doing. Rev. Ishee surprised us by requesting a song off the "Rhythm and Praise" CD that we had not intended to play and he asked us to start the service with "Down To The River." That made it so special, knowing that our songs and voices had touched the group enough last time we were there, months ago, that they wanted to experience those songs again.
It's hard to explain the feeling of "CHURCH" that was in the room Sunday. The chapel at Cumberland Heights is like something out of a story book: a capacity of around 75, wooden bench seats and beautiful stained glass windows.
There were no empty seats and folding chairs had been placed in the small aisle.
It was a strangely warm morning for January in Nashville so we threw open the doors and a warm breeze blew through the chapel. X-ALT's songs of praise joined by the voices of the congregation were carried on those breezes to the flocks that stood outside and they traveled over wires to the overflow room and God's presence was definitely felt. The congregation was on their feet and clapping and singing along - I tell you it was CHURCH!
The feeling of God's presence washed over us and our ladies voices blended together like the songs of angels! The band was tight and together and it was as if each song took things up another notch untill the bluesey version of "Amazing Grace" was played to close the service. Amazing Grace is Cumberland Heights theme song and they sing it at every service. As they sang along with us you could see by the smiles on their faces that they had been uplifted and strengthened and we are so proud that God has given us the chance to be a part of those blessings.
Rev. Ishee dismissed the group and we played them out with the song he had requested "No Place Like Home." Our drummer Eddie must have been feeling the vibe of the room as he started it "a bit" faster than usual, but believe me when I tell you - it worked - it was such a great upbeat way to end a morning of praise and worship.
We will be returning to Cumberland Heights this summer to help them dedicate their new sancturary and we can't wait!
Next weekend if everything works out we will be worshiping with the ladies at Metro Nashville's Women's Prison on Saturday and then with the good folks at New Beginnings SMC on Sunday. We ask that you keep us in your prayers as the X-ALT train keeps chugging along spreading the Good News of God's love thru song.
Be Blessed
V
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