Tracy Stuffle Benefit Concert

Last night was such an incredible reminder of why I love southern gospel music. The Tracy Stuffle Benefit Concert was a picture of the church loving on Tracy, Libbi and their family.

I had a meeting last night so I missed the first hour of the concert. I got home just in time to see the Perrys take the stage, and Jason bring Libbi on stage. I loved hearing her sing, and she sang with such raw emotions. She gave an update on Tracy and said that doctors and nurses had told her many people who had been through what Tracy has have not made it as far as he has. She said that they are not out of the woods yet, but they are farther than they were. She is asking for prayer and fasting starting Thursday morning through Monday morning. The prayer is that they will not have put a permanent shunt in his brain. Also, prayers for complete healing and restoration of his body.

Phil Hoskins, pastor in Kingsport, Tenn., had the artists gather around Libbi to pray and anoint her. All the artists stood around her with their hands on her and the audience stood with their hands outstretched. Just watching online, I got chills watching as believers rallied around all lifting up their voices and interceding on Tracy's behalf. As the prayers died down, you could hear one voice start to sing. It was Libbi's, as she started "Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus." Amazing, powerful moment!

In most other genres of music, you wouldn't see artists and fans rally around a group and donate their time and resources to support and pray for them. Last night was such a beautiful picture of the ministry of southern gospel. It's all about encouraging and lifting up believers and telling others about Jesus (10 people made professions of faith at the concert).

As for the concert itself, the lineup of talent was incredible, and it lasted for more than four hours. Even after several hours, the crowd seemed to still be going strong. Joseph Habedank and Jason Crabb worked really well hosting together. For more on the concert and the artists who were there, Daniel and YGG both live blogged the event. Also, Heather Ruppe Day posted several videos on SocialCam.

The concert will be rebroadcast on XM/Sirius's enLighten Channel 18 and Dish TV Channel 6018 on Wednesday, March 20, 2013 at 6 CST, Saturday March 23 at 6:45 CST and Sunday March 24 at 8:45 PM CST.