The back story of my 1st song as an Independent Artist: "Through That Door" and how it still affects me today!
Matthew 28:19-20 (NASB)
19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
In the early 2000’s, I was part of a Gospel Blues Band. As most bands do, that band did eventually break up. Our mission core was to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ! Still wanting to share the Gospel through music, I decided to strike out on my own and give it my all.
First Song as an “Indy”
One of the first songs I wrote as an “Indy” was of an experience I once had. I was a pilot on a trip which started out ok but quickly ended up a mess! Later on that day though, it turned into a God glorifying experience. The story of that day turned into a song I wrote entitled “Through That Door”.
The “Back” Story!
When I was an airline Captain, I would have many interesting trips assigned to me. Some flights would go through major hubs such as NYC. One particular week as I was getting ready to leave the hotel room for my trip, I stopped what I was doing! I was staring at the backside of my closed door and I knew that I should stop and spend some time in prayer. I knew that just outside that door, our old adversary the devil was out there ready to do a number on me (1 Peter 5:7-9) and I wanted to be ready! The only way to do that was to stop and pray and prepare my mind.
The day started out normally, but due to circumstances, my trip changed and I got stuck in a big city. So instead of getting upset, I started looking for opportunities to share. At dinnertime I went out of my room to grab a bite and as I went down a main road, I came across a homeless man. He wanted money ( I did eventually help him), but at the same time he was in a hopeless state, needed help and I was willing to stop, share and pray for him. He really also wanted someone to talk to him and maybe provide encouragement. I’ve done that several times on layovers and sometime it is welcomed, sometimes it is not. That day, he at least listened.
This trip ended the next day and I was headed home to my wife and family. As I was getting ready to turn in for the night, I thanked God for my wife and the opportunity to share His free gift of salvation. (Romans 10:9-13)
Even today before I go out the door of my hotel room, I look at that door and remember that trials and hard times are going to come my way. I also know that opportunities are going to come before me and that He will hold me fast. I know that if I continue to put Him first by taking a few minutes to prepare, the victory through it all will be His.
My Gift To You!
This particular post has been a bit longer than usual, but even so I thought some of you might find it interesting. As my “thank you” for taking a few minutes to share your time with me, I’m offering a free download of the song I’ve just posted about: “Through That Door”.
Click Here to get the free song!
Click on the link above and it will take you right to it. No strings attached, no requirements to sign up or buy anything else, just a gift. ( If you do wish to sign up to follow me, I think that would be great. There is also an opportunity to purchase my music if you want to, but that is up to you. )
I appreciate feedback. If you would like to send me a quick email to mike@jmikewills.com, I’d love to hear from you.
J Mike Wills 