In each new phase of our lives, Thomas and I were learning how to live out the great commission. Simply put; "Preach the gospel, make disciples, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember; I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” With this foundation that began with faith in Jesus, the challenge was to seek him and to trust his guidance. Our confidence was in Jesus, our shepherd. Like Naomi said in the last episode; it was so important that we drew our children into the process of sharing the gospel with others. As parents we were learning that the greatest joy of our lives was raising our four daughters.

At this time we had a brand new challenge. Besides the church and school schedule, we were mapping out a plan to present the musical in the summer of 1986. Thomas had worked with at least 15 pastors in Munich, since 1976. They organized the gathering called “Fest zur Ehre Gottes” (Festival to Honor God), which I have talked about before.

A few times a year, they had special seminars and services that took place in old Lutheran churches. Usually, Thomas wasresponsible, for organizing and practicing with the musicians. Other times he was the translator for American or English pastors. The decision to plan an even larger event, as a 10year anniversary, was definitely a few steps up, from the tradition of normal church meetings. Just so you know, modern mega denominations didn’t exist in Germany. The only choice, was to find a public building, that wasn’t tooexpensive to rent. For the musical presentation a large stage would also be necessary. The pastors could only estimate how many people might come. At that point, they probably calculated, they would need seating for approximately 1000people. And even that big of an audience was hard for them to imagine.