I had been looking forward to this weekend for some time.  I knew that the Lord had something special prepared for us.  On Friday, we left CUC around 1p and headed to Havertown, Pa. to the "Got Mug?" Coffeehouse. There were eight of us in the van and the trailer was packed.  We had so much stuff that we had to put guitars in the van!  It was an uncomfortable ride but the Lord saw fit to make sure that the traffic wasn't heavy and the drive wasn’t too long! 

We were met by Ben Mell, who runs the coffeehouse and he also was part of the opening band for the evening.  The room was long with a tile floor which meant that it would be loud! (not that it isn't loud on most nights!!!)

I had the awesome privilege of playing with the opening band as well.  They have two different drummers, but neither of them showed up.  Gil, their awesome bass player, told me that both of the kids are seniors in High School so they probably were taking part in activities going on elsewhere.  The experience of learning five songs in 20 minutes is truly a GOD thing.  We pulled it off and the Lord truly blessed.

Then, it was Jakob’s Night’s turn.  I must admit I really felt God's presence at "Got Mug?"  He came in and brought a large host of angels and we played for them as well as the people that he allowed to come and listen. I would like to thank the United Presbyterian Church of Manoa for providing such an awesome venue for people to come and experience God through music.

I would like to thank Ben for assisting us when we first got there.  Also, thank you Ben for the beautiful music and for allowing me to be a part of the opening band.  Thanks to Gil for your kindness and musical ability.  The Lord has truly blessed you!  Thank you to Matt, Zack, and Sealey for your talents as well.  May God continue to bless you guys.  For the other young lady who sang, thank you as well.  Thank you Mrs. T and the rest of the kitchen staff for the good food and drinks.  Jessica, thank you for coming and praising with us!  God has plans for you...keep trusting in Him.

After packing up and saying our goodbyes, we headed down the road to Hershey, PA.  This is a place that has become dear to me as I'm sure it has to the rest of the group.  We arrived at the Smith's home in Hershey around 2a.  Saturday morning began with a wealth of activity.  Gerry, Susan, and Tia Smith were home so some of us got up and went downstairs to eat and talk with them.  I got to bed a lot later than most of us but, I heard a voice (Tia's) coming from downstairs so I had to get up and say hello.  Jen, Lucas, and Trisha (Ben’s wife) arrived at the Smith's home Saturday morning.  It was good to see them.  Lucas stole the show, as usual.  He is one of the coolest babies I've ever been around.   Well, business really picked up after breakfast.  Several of the group went running and Lester and Jen went biking.  There was also a volleyball game that went on later in the day.  Everyone was having a good time.  I took some time to read the article in the most recent CCM magazine talking about Nichole Nordeman.  She is awesome and her new CD "Brave" is in stores now!  (I've always wanted to do that!)

Well, around 3:30p we had worship.  We sang a few songs and then Jen read a devotional written by Michael Card, a contemporary Christian artist, from another of the CCM magazines Lester had brought.  The message was very thought provoking and challenged us to try God in ways that is not always easy.

After worship, we headed out to Hershey First United Methodist Church (FUMC) to set up for the next morning.  Pastor Mark met us there around 5p and we started to load in.  It's always good to see Pastor Mark.  He is always full of energy and wit.  Jim, the sound tech for the church was there as well.  He is always so helpful and respectful to us.  We loaded in, did a quick sound check, then we were off to K-mart!  I know, it doesn't sound like we have lives but hey, there are things that need to be done.  While the rest of the gang went in to K-mart, I headed to Sheetz to put gas in the van.  Unfortunately, I spilled some due to a leak in the gas pipe so we had that wonderful overrated smell of gas fumes!

We headed back to the Smith’s and awaited the arrival of their sons, Ryan and Aaron.  When we came to the Smith’s home last year, they were out of town until Saturday evening because they went to visit Aaron, who goes to the University of Maryland.  We had never met them before so, it was good to see them.  They were tired, but very gracious and kind to us.  After talking with Ryan and Aaron and getting smacked in the arms and chest by Tia's wet hair, I went to bed.

The next morning, we got up around 6:30-7:00a and got dressed, ate, and got our stuff together to go back to the church for the service that morning.  I must take a moment and say this: it sucks having to leave the Smith’s knowing that we won't see them again until the next year.  They are such a warm and loving family and only God knew that we would be blessed enough to be a part of their family if only for the weekend!  I love you guys and we as Jakob's Night think so much of you as well. 

We made it to church and, because of a wrong turn I made before getting to the church, by the time we got there, I had to find another place to park: not to worry, God had a space in mind.  As we began the first song, our energy was low but, as time went on, our spirits started to come alive!  The Lord again sent a host of angels to come and praise with us.  Pastor Greg, who just recently joined the staff at FUMC gave a short talk which was preceded by two short videos of the Youth on two different retreats.  In one of the videos, there was a guy who looked familiar.  The reason why he looked familiar was because he was sitting next to Pastor Mark during the service while the video was being shown.  More about him in a minute.  There was also some footage of Tia singing.  She looked so cute! The service concluded with Jakob's Night playing a few praise songs.  Our energy picked up with every song but, I must say that it had to be God because I know I was done!

About that guy sitting by Pastor Mark...his name is Dan, and he is a member of "Saline."  Dan is the rhythm guitar player for the band and he also sings background vocals.  Dan truly has a heart for young people and he loves to use his God-given talents in leading out at Youth camp.  Dan is truly loved at FUMC.  Dan and I met and talked for a little while and I truly enjoyed our conversation.

We had to wait until the church service was over upstairs in order to move all the equipment and instruments up there.  Dan was gracious enough to be a part of the moving process.  We also had other hands on deck such as Todd and Jill, Pastor Mark and Jim as well as the rest of Jakob's Night.  The process didn't take that long and the set up time and sound check went smoothly.  Members of Saline showed up later in the afternoon.  Gino, Saline's awesome lead guitarist showed up with his wife Isabelle and his sister Ilene who is a singer/musician as well.  As Gino "Guapo" puts it, "She is the talented one in the family."  He said she sings like Norah Jones! WOW!  Matt, the bass player, showed up as well.  Although I feel they could have used our bass player, they opted for Matt (j/k).  Matt is very talented and a great guy.  John, the lead singer also came a little later.  He is a good singer and it comes across very well that he loves what he does and that the Lord is leading in his life.  John aka "Kramer" showed up late!  What do you expect from a drummer?! Wait, that's not true because I also am a drummer...anyway, although frazzled, and even though he can't catch (Matt threw him his in-ears and he wasn't looking so, we had to look for them), their sound check finally started.  Although none of us had ever heard Saline live nor did we know who they were, the Lord had already set up the introduction through Dan.  It is true that one person can make or break your impression of the rest of the group by how they act.  Dan is a man of God, and it helped to pave the way for us meeting the rest of the group. 

Saline has an awesome sound and a lot of energy with many cool rifts provided by Gino and some killer chops by "Kramer."  This was going to be a concert we would never forget. 

It was time to go and mingle so, we all headed outside and hung out with the people who came to enjoy the sunshine, fellowship, and snacks that were there for the taking.  I went to the van to change clothes and while over there, I saw some kids who were selling Lemonade.  I bought some and told them of the concert at the church and told them to come.  I also went back to the church, and per their request, told all who were headed outside to go and support those kids.  They came to the concert!

Well, Saline kicked the off concert with a truly upbeat set and energy that was intoxicating!  What an awesome ministry they have.  They played for about 45 minutes and then Pastor Mark told everyone to go outside to get some pizza and return for Jakob's Night.  After watching Saline it made me hungry too, but we had to get ready.  At around 6:45p we took the stage and began playing close to 7p. The energy left over from Saline was still visible and the people stood and jumped around as much as they could with food digesting in their stomachs.  Even some of the members of Saline were there praising with us.  What a blessed event this was. 

During our set, we gave out a lot of free stuff and we also sang "Happy Birthday" to Michelle Devore, who came from Hagerstown, Md. with her family to see us perform. 

After it was all said and done and we said our goodbyes, we went out to eat at Friendly's with the Devores to celebrate Michelle’s birthday.  The food was pretty good but the time we had was even better.  Although the birthday girl was sick, I would say that she had fun.  Hope you’re feelin better Michelle.

I want to thank Pastor Mark for allowing us to be a part of a wonderful Youth event along with Saline.  I also would send up best wishes to his wife as she regains her energy after coming from the hospital on Saturday. 

I would like to thank Jim, the church tech, for being there and helping us get things together as well as being so accommodating.  You thoughtfulness will never be forgotten.

I would like to thank Pastor Greg for his words to us during the morning service.

I would to thank Todd and Jill for helping set up. 

Thanks to Saline for being such awesome ministers for God.

Dan-Thank you for coming in the morning and worshipping with us as well as helping us breakdown, set-up, and breakdown again!  I enjoyed our conversation and I pray that the Lord shows you which path to take.

Gino-You are a talented guy and the Lord has put you in your job for a reason.  May God continue to bless you and Isabelle and blessings to you Ilene, in your music.

John-I enjoyed hearing you sing.  Paster Mark was right; it would be something hearing you and Randy sing together.  May God continue to bless you as well.

"Kramer"- You rock!  Thank you for showing me some new chops and thank you for your kindness.  May God bless you and your family and may your little baby continue to melt your heart!

Matt-What can I say?  Thanks for your kindness and for the beginning of a cool friendship.  You play the bass pretty good too!  Keep it up!  I look forward to whatever the Lord has in store.  God bless you my man!

Nick-Although you are young, the Lord has given you a way to be used by him in making Saline sound in a way that everyone will be blessed by them.  May God guide you and in all your ways acknowledge him!

Thanks to Samantha, Meaghan, Lindsey and Don for coming and praising with us.

A very special thank you to the Devores for coming to Hershey.  It is ALWAYS a good thing when we see them in the audience.  Gary, I know you had to leave early but, thank you for bringing two of your guys with you.  You are the MAN!

Thank you to Wendell, Kevin and Ryan for coming and to my "Lemonade crew", Katie and Harry.  You guys are the best!  The Lemonade was really good!!

Last but CERTAINLY not least, thank you Gerry, Susan, Ryan, Aaron and Tia Smith for your undying love and your warm hearts and for opening their home to us!  I pray that the Lord continues to expand your territory and may He shower you with His grace and mercy daily!

Until next time...

Tim  

It was cold.  It was early.  It was New Year's Eve.  This New Year's Eve, however, would be different than any we've ever experienced as a band.  This was the first time Jakob's Night would be together playing a concert for several hundred people at The Dwelling Place (DP), an awesome venue located in Newport News, VA.  You see, last year I had the privilege of going to the DP for the New Year's Eve celebration and had such a good time that I shared my experience with the rest of the band. Then the Lord worked it out for Jakob’s Night to be a part of this year’s festivities!   

We all left Takoma Park around 7am  and met up at the DP around 11am.  We unloaded the van and set up for sound check.  The reason why we sound checked so early is because there were six other bands that would also be playing that evening.  When I said this would be a different experience, I wasn't kidding!

Something else that was unusual was the weather—when we left Takoma Park it was still pretty chilly but the forecast was for sunny and mild conditions!  What!?!  This is the winter season isn't it!?!  It was in the 60s by 1pm!  It was great.  I must tell you that I did pray the weather would be nice.  The Lord answered this prayer and then some! After sound check, some of the guys headed to the mall.  Randy went to sleep, and Ben and I hung out listening to the other bands sound check and we also played a little "H-O-R-S-E"…do I really need to tell you who won!?!  

The program was scheduled to begin around 8pm.  The group that opened up the night was called YWAM-Nashville—a group of talented young people who are dedicated to spreading the gospel through music, drama, and witnessing to each and every person willing to listen.  The members of this group are from different parts of the U.S. and decided to come together and tour the East Coast with one of their stops being the DP.  I would like to thank the members of YWAM, especially David, Gabe, Peter, Kristy and Megan for their ministry!  David, may God continue to lead you to help the young people with whom you come in contact!  Megan, may God be with you as you continue your ministry overseas!  You are missed!

The next musician to take the stage was Jasper.  This young man just recently moved from Ohio to the tidewater area.  Thank you Jasper for your ministry. The next group to the stage was Glowin' Moses, which is a group that we had heard much about but never heard them perform.  Thank you!  Glowin' Moses for your hearts, and your musicianship!  WOW!  May God continue to bless your ministry.  Nate, God has a plan!

After being amazed by Glowin' Moses, Nevertheless took the stage and stepped up what would be the beginning of an awesome worship experience.  Adam, the lead singer and leader of NTL, led us to the throne by showing us, through song, what it means to trust in God and let him lead in every aspect of our lives.  Thank you NTL for letting the Lord use you in such a marvelous way.  Adam, you truly have a heart for God!  We appreciate your ministry!

The Bekah Rogers band took the stage next and continued to lead us to God's throne.  It's always good seeing young people who are not afraid to give all they have for the Lord!  Thanks Bekah and your band for keeping God first!

Jakob's Night took the stage next and we played with reckless abandon!  It was one of the best times we've had on stage, and we could tell that the audience was having a blast as well.  I must say that JN has grown in so many ways, especially in our musicianship.  The Lord is blessing us in ways that we could have never imagined or hoped for.  It was a privilege to be a part of this worship experience!

Before Hampton 's Masters Commision blessed our hearts, we ushered in the New Year 2005!  What a celebration!  What a way to enjoy time with the Lord!  There's no other place I wanted to be that night!  Hampton 's Masters Commision brought the night to a close with a few Praise and Worship songs that touched the souls of all who stayed until the very end.  Praise God for his marvelous goodness and grace, given to each and everyone of us!

A special thanks to all who took the trip with us (Rachel, Gary and Candy, Elisa, Michelle, and Lauri), and to those who showed up later (Trisha).  It was a pleasure having you all come down to Virginia to support us!

A special thank you to my family for housing us and for the awesome food! (Cyd, you need to be slapped!)  We love you all very, very much.  Uncle Tim loves you the most! And of course, Cuddin was sad he didn’t get to stay and enjoy the food and fellowship!

To Corey, Bill, JR, and all the staff at the DP, thank you for allowing us to be a part of this celebration of what God has done and what he will do in the future.  May your ministry at the DP continue to be blessed!

Pam of K-LOVE, we love you so much and we are always glad to see you!  May God keep you and your family! Red, I thank you for your friendship and your love.  The Lord has plans for you still! Nate, as always, it was good to see you, bro! Arch Angel, you did your thang!  God bless you! Andy, thanks for being a loyal supporter of Jakob's Night.  I can't wait to come and worhsip at your church! To all those who I failed to mention, know that we love you all and thank you so much for your support!  My God bless and keep you.

Lord you are good and your mercy endureth forever!

What a time we had in Hershey! Well, that is, once we finally got there!!! I can't believe it took us FOUR HOURS! to get there. The trip was an unbelievable worship experience. One that we will never forget.

We arrived at the Harbour Co. Coffee house a little behind schedule (2 1/2 hours to be frank!), but our spirits were high and our mission was still the same—to praise God with all that He has given us. We loaded in and set up all the equipment that we could use to perform in a very tight but intimate setting. There weren't many people in attendance but those who came were blessed. Little did we know that the weekend would only get better!

After finishing our set, we took time to hang out and eat and chat with those still chilling at the coffeehouse. It was nice to have a chance to sit down and catch our breath. The food and FREE! drinks were very good. Thanks to Brad and his assistant for providing us with all the mouth-watering food and delicious drinks!!

Thanks to Kathy, Norman, Megan, Lisa, and Sarah for hanging out and praising God with us (although Sarah, you weren't there for the concert!) A special thank you to Candy, Elisa, Tim, and Joel (our main roadie!) for coming from Hagerstown and gracing us with your presence! May God continue to bless you guys.

After packing up, we left the coffee house and headed for what would be the most God-inspired time we've ever had so far, as a band.

The beautiful home that we stayed in is owned by Gerald and Susan Smith. Before we arrived to their place, we were told that the owners would not be home. They would return on Saturday evening. WOW! I can't tell you how nice it was for the Smith's to allow us to stay in their home, not knowing who we were, let alone, ever having the opportunity to talk with us by phone or email. Believe me when I tell you that God loves you and will take care of you always. He knows what you need even before you ask!

Before we embarked upon our trip to Hershey , Pa. , there was a mix-up in the arrangements of who was taking care of our living arrangements for Friday night. God already provided the answer. He knew of a family who lived right outside of New York , that decided to make a move to Hershey , Pa. just ten years earlier. Little did any of us know that our paths would cross in such a marvelous way!

Friday night, before I went to bed, I decided to explore the Smith's home. I came across a small sign sitting on top of the China cabinet which read, "Because Nice Matters". More about this later.

On Saturday, after sleeping in, we ate some good food and then we had the most powerful worship experience that we've ever had! From the music that was sung to the story told by Lester, to the words shared in prayer, it was so awesome! We also re-dedicated our mission, as a band, to God.

On Saturday afternoon, we headed to First United Methodist Church for an evening concert. We arrived at the church and met up with Pastor Mark Mangum, the Youth Pastor of the church. There are many words that I could use to describe this man but the best one I could come up with is "energetic". He has the type of personality that will lift your spirits no matter what the circumstances.

As we made the preparations to play that evening, there was a feeling that this would be an evening we would never forget. Although there were about six people in attendance, the Lord moved in that place. After a little over two hours of music, we just sat around and talked for a while.

Thanks to John and Cheryl Biondo for being a part of the wonderful worship experience that we had. John, thank you for all the incredible photos that you took. Your artistic flare is a gift from God. Cheryl, what can I say? It was a pleasure meeting you and thank you for letting the Lord lead! May God bless and keep you both and may he expand your territory.

On Sunday morning, at the same church, we had the privilege of leading out in praise and worship as well as give a mini-concert during the time for the message. The place was packed and the Spirit "did his thing" to borrow a phrase from Pastor Mark. From "Ain't No Rock" to “I know You” (sung by Jeremy Robinson), to "In Everything Give Thanks", those in attendance hung on every word sung and every note played. What an awesome experience of worship that was!

I would like to thank Pastor Mark for letting the Holy Spirit "do his thing"! May God bless you, brother. I would like to thank the lady who came out as we were packing up and said, "I didn't get a chance to tell you this before because I had to go to the other service but, YOU GUYS ROCK!!!!!". Thank you to each and every person who came and experienced God through word and song, with us.

A very special thank you to Gerald, Susan, and Tia (my good friend!) for opening your home and your hearts to us. I mentioned the phrase, "Because Nice Matters" earlier. The Smith's have taken this phrase and brought it to life! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. Tia, may God continue to bless you as you grow in Him. You made our day! You definitely made mine!

A special thank you to Trisha for coming up and hanging out with us. Thanks also to Rhonda (for letting us borrow Steve for the weekend), and Jen and "Baby Lucas" (for allowing us to borrow daddy for the weekend!) We miss ya!

Please pray for my family. My father lost his mother this past Monday. God bless you all and, until next time..

11:15a  We left CUC and headed for Bucks County SDA Church, traveling in less than ideal driving conditions! We had the privilege of playing for "The Open Door Experience"(ODE), which happens once a month.  We had the privilege of playing for their first ODE last year, which was tremendous blessing to all of us.  This time was even better!  With the addition of Steve, our sound man, and the hard work put in to making the quality of our music even better, we took the ODE to another level.  The people in attendance were moved by the experience and I know Jakob's Night received a blessing as well. 

I failed to mention earlier that there was something wrong with our van.  Apparently, the van was leaking Anti-Freeze at what we thought was an alarming rate.  Little did we know it would make a testimony-filled ride home…more on that later.

Jakob's Night would like to thank Madeline for having us come and be a part of a wonderful worship experience.  Thanks to Pastor Ryan Bell for opening the doors and minds of his congregation and allowing us to make a joyful noise.  We also thank Jen Foulke for introducing us.  We would also like to thank Mr. Ortiz and Sonny for coming up with Lester and sharing in the time of praise to God. 

Thanks to Monica, Kayla, Cameron, Chris and DP for hanging out with me! 

There was also another special event that happened on September 18, 2004.  Lucas Abdiel Ortiz was dedicated to God!  What an awesome, all-important event that was.  May God be with Lester, Jen and the rest of their families as well as Jakob's Night and all others that will come in contact with Lucas.  May we exemplify what it means to be Christian examples for Lucas to follow. 

After we said our goodbyes, we headed out to get a bite to eat.  As I mentioned in the beginning, our van was leaking anti-freeze inside the van.  So, as we prepared to leave, Randy, Steve and Wil checked the radiator and the reservoir to try and find the leak.  Steve found one leak under the dashboard on the passenger side—the floorboard was absolutely soaked. Steve diagnosed the problem as a failed heater core. We made a stop at the gas station and picked up some anti-freeze and added what we thought we needed to make it back home.  We drove to a nearby restaurant and had a good time while there.  Little did we know the Lord had sent his angels to do a minor repair on our van in order for us to make it back home. 

We left the restaurant and headed to the van and what we found didn't look good. There was so much anti-freeze on the ground!  It seemed as though all the anti-freeze we put in the reservoir at the gas station had leaked out!  We had two choices: Wait it out overnight in PA., or chance it by driving home with the distinct possibility of destroying the engine in the van.  We took a vote, and most of us wanted to head home.  Elisa said that we should pray and that's what we did.  Led by Randy, we poured our hearts out to God to give us safe travel and for help to make it home without any problems.  I prayed silently and later shared with Elisa that I wanted the temperature gauge to stay on "N" (on the dash, the word "normal" is spread across the area designated for the temperature gauge).  Isaiah 41:10a says, "Fear not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am thy God...We started the van and, with a little bit of fear in our hearts, headed home.  I could go on about how, after about 10 minutes, the air was calm in the van and the mood was as if we were riding in the hands of God, which we were.  The temperature gauge either stayed on "N" or below.  The van rode as if nothing had happened to it, and we made it home safely.  God is truly our "refuge and strength"!

When we took the van in for repairs the mechanic noted that the temperature gauge was broken, so the ‘cold’ reading we were getting was totally false. They replaced the heater core, the gauge, and some hoses and the van is back to normal. It’s just amazing that we made it home—a true testament to God’s power.

We had the privilege of once again playing at CUC, our home.  This show was a test of sorts, because usually we have had a not-so-favorable response from our folks at CUC.  We stand corrected!  What an unbelievable experience we had.  The crowd was pumped, we were pumped, and the spirit was moving throughout the place.  The response from all who attended was overwhelming! From "Perfect Summer Day" to "Give Thanks"; from " Ain't No Rock" to "Real", words can't do justice to what the atmosphere was like this night!  Praise God for showing us that it's not our doing at all, but His.

Jakob's Night would like to thank Mike Kelly and the Agape Cafe staff for being such gracious hosts, as well as all our fans that came out to support us.

I would to thank Tara for coming and hanging with us. (Praying for you girlfriend!)  I would also like to thank the "Lady Pioneers” for coming and supporting us. (I Believe!) Thank you Mike B., Jeff, Ralph, Jerome, Miguel, Jeremy and his new friend (Aah!); Calvin and Michelle Kilmer and their friend Kim for coming. (Make it to B-ball on Wednesday just for me!)  To Sarah, Trisha, Michelle, Rich and Melissa Reinhardt and Rich's Mom and Dad, thanks for supporting us as well.

A special thank you to Jen and Lucas for gracing us with your presence--Lucas is such a cutie!  I’m looking forward to my turn babysitting!

May God bless you all and until next time!

Tim

On Friday morning, September 10th, at 7:15am, we headed out from Takoma Park to Kettering, Ohio for a concert at Kettering College of Medical Arts (KCMA). We stopped in Hagerstown to put fuel in our bodies, which I must say was a good thing. The Cracker Barrell (CB) has to be one of our favorite stops. There’s something about "Momma's Pancakes"; those mouth-watering country biscuits and corn bread, and the sweet tea! Wow!

After eating at the CB, we continued down the road to Kettering. We arrived a little after 5pm, and proceeded to unpack, set-up, sound check, collect ourselves and then eat. The concert started around 7:45p and although the place wasn't packed, those who were in attendance enjoyed themselves. I want to thank Brendan Prutzman for having us come and be a part of the wonderful worship experince that took place this past Friday night. While at KCMA, we stayed with the Morettas, who have been so gracious to us each time we’ve visited there. We know that we have a very important person in the band that's related to Amy, and we thank the family as a whole, for making us feel as important. I also want to thank Jim and Jane Nesbit, Robin Vanderbilt, Glenn and Myra Hoffman, and Nikki and Rob, who showed up late, but still made an appearance. Congratulations to Greg and Christi on the addition to their family. Aden(sp) is so cute! 

On Saturday, September 11th, a few of us went to Kettering SDA for church. It was the first time Kettering had three different services, each geared toward a certain audience. They had a 9am traditional service and, at 10am, they had what was termed a "classical" service. At 12:15pm, they had their "contemporary" service, which we attended. The music was presented by the former members of "Stick Men", a wonderful praise band that opened for us a couple of times when we came to KCMA in the past. The music was great, and the spoken word was challenge filled. Thanks to Greg, Matt and the rest of the praise team for their ministry.

On Saturday afternoon, we headed to West Jefferson, Ohio—to the Mustard Seed Cafe. It's located about an hour east of the Dayton/Kettering area. The cafe has a small, intimate feel but the heart of the people there is large! We didn't need to set up most of our equipment (which was a blessing!), but the music filled the room and the Lord took our offering to him and allowed us to be a blessing to all who came. What a time we had there. It's funny how God can take a place so small and bring such a huge blessing to us as well as others who came! We are always amazed at what God does for us!! I would like to thank Susan for her hospitality, the food, and for making us feel at home! May God continue to expand your territory! I would also like to make mention of a few people I met while at the Mustard Seed Cafe. Trevor, may God continue to bless you as you find new ways to serve him and I hope we come back to "your" place soon! Brooke and Elizabeth Rebecca, thanks for the chat and for sharing some of God's love with me!

We left the Mustard Seed around 12:00am and made it home a little after 7:30am. The Lord kept us safe and Ali G kept us laughing!

Thanks to Lisa for all that she did to put this weekend together! It was good seeing you and hanging out! The "Steak 'n Shake" is becoming one of my favorite places! Thanks also for the beanie! May God continue to bless you as you continue to further your education at OU!

Thanks also to Rachel, whom I met through Wil, our bass player, for hanging out with us and giving Wil and myself rides (after we jumped your battery! lol), and for always supporting us with your presence. 

God bless you all and until next time...

On Saturday, June 5th, we headed to one of our favorite places...the "Common Ground" coffee house. It is always a blessing worshiping with the folk there. Although the crowd was really small, the angels came in full force and took over and filled every seat there. I love this place especially because of the kids. Although the kids run around having fun and, it seems as though they aren't really paying attention, something also grabs the attention of a few, and that is what our mission is. We can't change every heart but we can plant the seed. God will take care of the rest. After a special night, we stayed at the Cordy's home a little ways from the Common Ground. I can't say enough about the love we received from the Cordy's. From the food to the comfortable sleeping areas, and the conversations, as well as the two beautiful energetic daughters! It was awesome! Waking up in the morning and seeing the mist hovering over the dew drenched grass and hearing the beautiful sounds of nature and the sun rising in the east...wow! The Lord of all creation!!

On Sunday morning, June 6th, after leaving the Cordy's home, we headed to Mountainview Community Church for an awesome time of praise and worship! There's nothing like seeing people coming together and singing praises to the name of the Lord. Thanks to all the people of Mountainview for showing us God's love in so many ways. To the Pastor, Bryant, the Cordy's, Steve, and all the other people who helped to make this such a special time with the Lord, we thank you!

On Friday, June 11th, we played at the Spencerville SDA Church for their Friday night youth service. Though the room was small, the place was full and the Spirit of the Lord took over and consumed the place. Thanks to Jude for kicking off the evening. I have a special place in my heart for this group because Matt Murray is the one to start it. He is very special to me and I'm glad to see him using his talents for the Lord! The night was wonderful, and we thank all who came out to support us and praise with us.

On June 12th, Sabbath morning, we played at Cornerstone Praise Ministries for their praise and worship service. It was Youth Sabbath, so they had the puppet ministry as well as special music done by a brother and sister act! We just love worshiping at CPM!

On Saturday afternoon, we headed to Hagerstown to play at the One Way Cafe. This was a concert I was truly looking forward to. On March 6th, Wil and I went to support Blake and "Forgiven" celebrating their two year anniversary! What a blessing that was. When the Lord is in the house, there is nothing that can prepare you for what is about to take place. From the hospitality, to the food, to the prayer's and the music! God is an awesome God! The One Way Cafe has never charged for entry into its doors. There's always plenty of food, and the blessings just keep on coming! Thank you Blake and Marion for your friendship to the band, and for your prayers and support of our ministry! Thanks to all the people who attended our concert and made the night even more special.

On Friday night, June 18th, we went to the Crossover Cafe, located in Hyattsville, MD. What a time we had at this venue. The host for the evening was Rob Mercer, who we will have the privilege of accompanying on an upcoming CD project. Thanks to Melody Barnes, Angela Stevens, and of course, Minister Kwesi.

On Saturday, July 3rd, on a hot afternoon, we were blessed to be the first to kick off the Summer Concert Series at New Hope SDA Church. The temperature was high and there was a call for rain but, while praying that the Lord would hold the rain, the large ominous cloud that was overhead moved off to the south and the sun came out in ALL its splendor! What a God we serve. Not only did it not rain, but there was a small breeze that blew in at the right time to cool us a bit, as well as the trees shading us as we ministered to those in attendance. Thanks to my Pastor, David Nueman, Cheryl Rhoda-Wu and the rest of the staff that helped make this event a success.

On Friday, July 9th, we headed to Virginia for a couple of concerts. We first went to the Vineyard Cafe, located at the Vineyard Community Church, in Virginia Beach, VA. The church was very nice and the stage was huge! There was also an opening band called "Hemotheory" which set the evening off in a wonderful way! The whole evening was wonderful, and God moved in a mighty way. Thanks to Neil and the rest of the staff at the Vineyard for everything! We can't wait to come back!

On Saturday night July 10th we played at the Dwelling Place! WOW!!! What an AWESOME time we had there! I can't begin to explain what took place that evening. You just had to be there. Don't worry, we have pictures, and they'll be up on the website soon. I wish that we played at the Dwelling Place once a month! That would be such a blessing. Adam Johnson, I can't say enough about you and your band "Nevertheless". You guys touched our hearts. Let's do it again soon. To Cory and the rest of the awesome staff at DP, you guys truly have an anointing and we thank you for providing such a wonderful wholesome atmosphere for the youth and young at heart. There's nothing that even comes close to praising the one who gives us life! What an awesome experience we had worshiping with you. To my family...thank you, as always, for your love and for the wonderful time we had hanging out with you all. I love you...Hey Cou'ins!!! ("Cuddins" to Wil) To the CCNN family...what can I say about you all. We have been truly blessed by your love for us and for your undying support...we can't wait to come and worship with you all again. To the Ellingtons...my extended family! I love you all and can't wait to spend more time with you guys. Thanks for everything!!! Thanks to Nate (keeping you in prayer bro), and to Alan who drives over an hour each way (blessings to you). To Hope and Kiah...may God bless you as you make that move to the west coast to go back to school. I'll be praying for you! Lacie...always good to see you! To Pastor Terry and Wendy...we'll be praying for your new addition to your family!!

On Thursday July 15th we were able to be the featured band for the last day of camp at the beautiful West River camp grounds in Maryland. If you've never been to West River, you need to go! It is such a beautiful peaceful place to be. Well, we played for over 100 kids and staff and enjoyed the fellowship of all that attended the camp. The Lord grants us so many awesome venues at which to play, but I think this one was extra special. Why the Lord allowed us to be a part of this, I don't know, but I thank him for the opportunity He gave us to change lives!

On Saturday afternoon July 17th we had the pleasure of being a part of the X-Press-O Cafe Summer Festival once again. This time we were able to perform outside. Boy, was it hot out there, but the Lord was ever present as well. Thanks to all the staff at X-Press-O who make things so pleasant for us every time we come there. May God continue to bless the Iverness Praise band (Casey, keep playing those drums, Girl!), Redeem the Day, Under Command (Sorry it rained when you started playing! I know things continued though…). Much love to my man Josh...I love you man!


On Friday July 23rd we took a quick trip to Upper Marlboro, Md. to the 4th Friday's Praise Festival, held at the Reach the World Fellowship Church. I must confess that, when we first pulled up to the place, I wasn't to impressed with what I saw. The Lord knew what we were in for, but, because of my finite mind, I could only see what was in front of me. The Lord is truly the one to whom I need to look to always because he showed up in such a mighty way, I don't think any of us expected it! Praise be to God for giving us such awesome unexpected gifts! Thanks to Lisa Gilliam and the rest of the staff. May God bless you all!

On Saturday, July 24th, it was back to CPM. The Lord showed up in a mighty way, as usual. We're looking forward to the 14th of August!

On Saturday August 7th we played at Joe's Place in Baltimore. Unfortunately, Shannon and his wife weren't there, but Danny and Sam did a wonderful job in his place. The concert was awesome, but the time of praise and worship along with the time of prayer was beyond words. The God we serve is more powerful than any human thought imaginable. He takes what little praise we can offer him, and turns it into something that is too marvelous to explain. God is good, all the time!!!!

Well, I pray that God's peace be with you all and know that Jakob's Night loves each and everyone of you and keep us in your prayers always.

Much Love,

Tim

I also wanted to thank Pastor Tony, Sandy, Elaina (the quiche dish was awesome), Hope (hi Kiah), Ed, Haley, Rachel, AJ, Carol, Jennifer, Red, Carolyn, and all those who I didn't mention for making our time at CCNN so wonderful! May God continue to bless you all.

Well, 2004 is under way with some really great concerts. Actually, what I like best about the concerts are the fans. Now that we actually have some, they are really, really great-especially ones that come all the way from Ohio to see us at the Common Ground in Culpeper, Va.-go Lisa! What the rest of the band doesn't know, is that she really came to see my Tyrannosaurus Rex impersonation. Then there's always Kenny, who didn't drive as far, but who has nonetheless become an unofficial 8th member of the band (behind our manager, Elisa, who is contending for 7th member). Sorry buddy, but unless you want to be a full time/no pay roadie, you'll have to stay 8th. We were also extra glad to see Steve "tech wizard" Christiano and his wife Rhonda in Culpeper. That actually made our night!

Common Ground was much fun because we got to do a new song, as has become the custom there. I think we're calling it "Start to Breathe". Elisa said it made her cry, so I told her we would work on it some more. She assured me that her tears were because the song was so powerful. Very cool! Also very cool was the fact that the CG concert was sort of a three-year anniversary concert. We didn't even realize that Feb. marked three years of Jakob's Night until we were driving down there, so we made everyone have a good time.

As always, for me at least, the highlight of the night was "Give Thanks". That song just JAMS! I give thanks every time we play it. Sometimes it's eight minutes, sometimes it's 15. That's why it's so cool, 'cause we never know until it's done.

At least the highlight at Common Ground was musical and didn't have anything to do with misunderstood utterances over the microphone like last week at the Washington Spanish church. Ok, I need to clear this up with everyone who was there. During the band member interview, I did not say "I am wonderful with Mexicans," however, I did say, "I am one fourth Mexican." I wondered why there was so much nervous laughter when I said that, and I just stood up there believing they were laughing with me. I don't know how many T. Rex impersonations it will take for me to forget that.

As much fun as we have, we receive confirmation at EVERY show that this is God's band. It is still so moving when people come up with tears in their eyes and say that they were truly blessed. The fact that our music can have an actual affect on someone's relationship with God… WHAT!?

I woke up early ready to go to our monthly gig at Cornerstone Praise Ministries. Unfortunately, there was a ton (okay, 6"-8") of snow on the ground, so the church service was canceled. That meant that I could go back to sleep for a few hours before leaving for our gig in Williamsburg, VA at Uncommon Grounds. Yeah!

The band got together around 2pm to pack up the van and trailer and head out. The trip usually takes about three and a half hours, but we left a little earlier because of the snow and the possibility of traffic on the beltway. What, traffic on the beltway at 2 in the afternoon on a Saturday? Of course, there's always gridlock around DC and we're beginning to hate it, but that's for another journal entry.

We were all excited because Ben and Lester picked up a power inverter for the van, meaning that we could watch DVDs and play Playstation 2 while traveling! However, that excitement was soon dampened when I couldn't figure out how to get the Playstation to hook up to the van's tv. And we really wanted to watch Fred Hammond's new DVD. His group jams, plain and simple.

We got to the coffeehouse on schedule and set up our stuff in quick fashion. Once we did our soundcheck we made room on the stage for the opening band, Simple Life. They were performing as a three-piece that night, so we didn't have to move too much gear around. After that we ate some food provided by Lace and the rest of the Uncommon Grounds staff. Thanks guys!

Simple Life rocked out for about 45 minutes. Their set featured a drum solo that was off the hizzle. Sorry, had to write that. Then we played a 90 minute set that featured some out-of-this-world organ soloing by Jeremy on the band favorite, "Give Thanks." I felt especially locked in with Tim. Every time we play a venue that has a very small performance space, we seem to really jam. I think it has something to do with being right on top of each other. I can really feed off the other musicians and vice-versa in that setting. However, it becomes a little difficult to jump around like I usually do. Randy told a poignant story before we played "Heal Me" that particularly touched a few members of the crowd. Every time he tells the prodigal son story it hits me. The Holy Spirit was definitely working! We closed out the set with the rocking "It's Real." Everyone was jumping to the rhythm and I almost fell over tripping on Tim's cymbal stand. I told him about hogging my space, but you know how drummers areJ

We arrived at the Thomas' at about 1 in the morning. They're Tim's family and they've quite simply adopted Jakob's Night. Every time we're in the area, they take us in. We are so thankful for them. They not only take us in, but they feed us too! And boy do they ever have some good eats!

After eating we tried to sleep for what amounted to approximately 4 hours. We had to get up early to be at Calvary Chapel of Newport News by 7 am. Amazingly, we did it. We love playing at CCNN, they are the nicest people. We got to see Ed and his two daughters, and we got to meet his wife, too. Also, Sandy was there. She hooked us up with the gig and hooked us up with some great eats. And we really enjoyed both of Pastor Tony's sermons. He really knows how to make it plain!

CCNN has two services, so we played slightly varied praise sets for each. At the end of the first service we played "Down on My Knees" and at the end of the second service we played "Change My Name" and because it was the last time we were playing in 2003, we closed with "Ain't No Rock." Man, we love that song and everyone in the audience appeared to love it too. Afterwards we were absolutely blessed by the church members. They bought all of our remaining merchandise that we had with us (T-Shirts and CDs)!

On the way back we stopped at Cracker Barrel, which is now a tradition when we're traveling. As usual, we ate too much. Then I drove the rest of the way home. Of course, on the way back, Ben figured out how to hook up the Playstation to the tv. So, while I was driving I was constantly tortured by sounds of glee and frolicking coming from the back. Lester, Randy, and Jeremy played Madden 2004, NBA Live 2004, and Lord of the Rings the whole way back. Next time, somebody else is driving.