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Dottie Leonard Miller’s Legacy Celebrated in Memorial Service

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AMY TURNER

The founder of New Day and Daywind, Dottie Leonard Miller, was honored last Monday evening during a celebration of her life, bringing together many artists whose careers she influenced. The memorial service featured performances by several prominent gospel music groups, including Brian Free & Assurance, Greater Vision, Karen Peck & New River, and Autumn Nelon Streetman.

Billy Blackwood of The Blackwood Brothers, who maintained a close relationship with the Leonard family, shared meaningful insights about Miller’s impact on the gospel music industry. “Dottie’s vision was a magnet, and her passion drew artists to her vision,” Blackwood reflected. “Practically, everyone here today is a testimony to the reality of that vision.”

Miller’s influence extended far beyond the business aspects of the music industry. As Blackwood noted, “She collected friends and artists who would match her vision for spreading the gospel. And because she faithfully followed her calling, millions of songs in Christian products have touched lives around the world.”

Her dedication to spreading the gospel message through music created a lasting impact. “Her legacy is a testament to her determination, her faith, and her deep commitment to spread the message of the gospel,” Blackwood concluded.

The Meaning Behind ‘He Made A Way In A Manger’

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AMY TURNER

Lee Black’s Christmas song “He Made A Way In A Manger” tells a powerful story. The song, now 20 years old, was written by Black and his friend Steve Merkel.

The idea came from a Christmas card Merkel received. It had a simple drawing of a manger on the front with part of a famous Christmas lyric. Inside, it showed Jesus on the cross, finishing the lyric.
This inspired them to write a song connecting Jesus’ birth to his death. Black wrote the words, and Merkel composed the music.

Provided to YouTube by DistroKid He Made A Way In A Manger · Lee Black ‘Tis The Season ℗ 2796642 Records DK Released on: 2022-11-04

The song reminds us of a scripture from Jeremiah 33:15-16:
“In those days and at that time
I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David’s line;
he will do what is just and right in the land.
In those days Judah will be saved
and Jerusalem will live in safety.
This is the name by which it will be called:
The Lord Our Righteous Savior.”

This prophecy points to Jesus as the savior, born in a manger but destined for the cross.

Black reflected on the song’s meaning, “I think the joy of Christmas is tinged with just a bit of melancholy, knowing that the baby in the manger is going to be the Christ of the cross. But what a gift we’ve been given in that.”

The song captures both the joy of Christmas and the sorrow of Jesus’ sacrifice. It helps us see the whole story of Jesus, from his humble birth to his redemptive death.

A Gift of Love: Sharing the Spirit of Christmas

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JEFF TURNER

In this busy Christmas season, Jeff Treece of Sunday Drive reminds us of a precious gift we can give that doesn’t cost a thing – the gift of love and kindness.

Treece suggests, “At Christmas time, it’s the perfect time to share joy and be a light in the world.” He points out that while many people are rushing around trying to find the perfect present, Christians have an opportunity to make a real difference.

“If we, as Christians, just slow down a little bit and share the love when we get out amongst people,” Treece says, we can have a positive impact on those around us. This simple act of kindness aligns with the true spirit of Christmas.

Treece emphasizes the importance of this gesture, stating, “We want to take people to heaven with us, that’s the ultimate goal.” This reflects the Christian belief in sharing God’s love and message with others.

He adds a personal touch, saying, “Me, personally, I want the Lord to put his arms out and say, ‘Jeff Treese, you told body.'” This shows his deep desire to fulfill what he sees as a Christian duty to spread love and joy.

Treece concludes with a call to action: “So let’s share love. Let’s be the light out in the world this Christmas season.” This echoes the biblical teaching found in Matthew 5:16, which encourages believers to “let your light shine before others.”

Inspiration Behind the Steele’s song ‘On the King’s Shoulders’

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AMY TURNER

Brad Steele of The Steels took some time to be interviewed by Texas Gospel about thegroup’s new song, “On the King’s Shoulders.”

“On the King’s Shoulders is a song that was written by me and my dad,” Steele explained.

He told us the inspiration for the song came from an unexpected source. “We wrote this a few years ago after a sermon he had preached around Christmas time, ironically, where he talked about the portion of Scripture that says he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, Everlasting Father and the government will be on his shoulders,” Steele recounted.

The sermon sparked an idea that would eventually become the core message of the song. Steele continued, “He talked about in that sermon, all of the different things that we can put on his shoulders, all of the different things that he can take, he can take the load on his shoulders. And that gave the idea for on the King’s shoulders”

Like many inspired songs, it didn’t take long from start to finish. “So we wrote the song, and it was really a short co-write, only took about an hour-and-a-half, I would say, to write the song. Really just came natural,” Steele said

The Steeles had a clear vision for the song’s style and impact. “We wanted it to be a toe-tapper. Wanted it to be a fast, upbeat song that people could enjoy,” Steele shared.

However, beyond the catchy melody, there’s a profound message. “And of course, the message that people take away is that you know, whatever you’re going through in your life, whatever’s going on in our world and in our nation, he can bear the weight. He can take the weight of whatever is weighing you down on his shoulders”

The lyrics reflect this message of comfort and support. Lines such as “Each burden has a resting place. Every heartache has a home where worries all get much lighter because he will carry the load” encapsulate the song’s theme

The song also touches on the idea of perspective, with lyrics like “Jesus sees a grain of sand when we just see a boulder”

This imagery encourages listeners to trust in God to handle their problems.

For those facing unexpected challenges, the song offers reassurance: “If a storm has surprised you, there’s someone walking beside you. He has power in his hand, and he will help you stand”

Listen for On the King’s Shoulders throughout the day on Texas Gospel Canada!

Old Time Preachers Quartet Announces Final Performance

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AMY TURNER

The Old Time Preachers Quartet, based in Nashville, Tennessee, has announced their retirement after a decade-long run. The group, founded in 2016, will conclude with a final performance in 2026.

Les Butler, owner of the quartet, stated that the group’s mission was to combine preaching and singing in the traditional style.

“God had a plan and a time,” Butler said. “We have tried our best to execute on that plan.”

The decision to retire comes as two members of the group, Tim Owens and Lee McNeill, have taken on pastoral roles, making Sunday travel unfeasible. Adam Borden, another member, is now engaged in full-time evangelism with a busy schedule. Butler himself cited the growing success of his other ventures, including Butler Music Group, Family Music Group, and REAL Southern Gospel Radio, as factors in the decision. He emphasized the broader reach and impact of these ministries compared to the quartet’s travels.

Reflecting on the group’s legacy, Butler expressed gratitude to all past and present members, including Mike Holcomb, Jeremy Ballinger, Bob Sellers, and Isaac Moore. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by their families and thanked the pastors and promoters who supported their ministry.

The Old Time Preachers Quartet will honour most of their scheduled performances for 2025 and early 2026. Their final dates include appearances at the Spring Jubilee in Ringgold, Georgia, and Hullender Farms in Apison, Tennessee, in 2025, with their last scheduled performance at Teays Valley Baptist Church in West Virginia in January 2026.

Fans can continue to purchase the group’s CDs and USBs through their website after the retirement.