tag:rannonscall.com,2005:/blogs/blog-da6cd9b0-6b5e-4908-ad63-e54a12b8ecb6?p=3Blog2021-05-18T03:46:16-04:00Rannons' Callfalsetag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897272013-01-03T19:00:00-05:002013-01-04T04:57:59-05:00My Investment
<p> Question. What would you do with a million dollars? Pay off all your bills, buy a house, Buy a bigger house, car, boat, jet, clothes?</p>
<p> That's cool, there's nothing wrong with enjoying yourself and splurging a little bit! Can I borrow a dollar?!!!</p>
<p> This question has been on my mind for the past few years. My initial answer was the same as a lot of you, I listed the things I would do for me. As I said earlier, there's nothing wrong with that! My answer later evolved in that I looked at what I would do for the people I care about, those that I love.</p>
<p> I remember telling one of those people what I would do if I had a lot of money, how I wanted to be a financial blessing to them.</p>
<p> I'm paraphrasing their comment here but they basically said " So since you don't have a lot of money does that mean that you do nothing?" Ouch!</p>
<p> My thoughts on this have finally come to where God wants them to be. That is to be a blessing to those I know and don't know.</p>
<p> I am so glad that our first video wil be the song "Rannons' Call", it speaks plainly of who we are and why we are.</p>
<p> We have been led to be a blessing to a specific group of people that you will hear about in the future and we are excited! We want to be and will be a blessing to them. Because we are not millionaires it does not mean that we do nothing!</p>
<p> I have found that God has given me and has given us more than what we think we have. So what do we do with what has been given. Do we keep it for ourselves and hoard it? Do we only share it with people that we know and love? God forbid!</p>
<p> Invest it! Invest what God has given! Invest in people!</p>
<p> We call you this year to invest. We can not do this alone, but then again we are not suppose to!</p>
<p> My investment is in you.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21 </p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897202012-10-31T20:00:00-04:002012-11-01T04:52:37-04:00My Confession
<p>I have a confession to make. Everyone, and I do mean everyone has some things that they don't want anyone to know about. I'm no different, I have some too.</p>
<p> I really need you to not hold what I'm going to reveal about myself against me, please! First let me say I have only done it two times this year so it's not like I do it all the time. Second, I've seen other men do it! I know that's not an excuse, that it doesn't matter how many times you have done it or who else does it but that's my story and I'm sticking to it!</p>
<p> Ok enough of this already, I need to do this like taking off a band-aid and just say it. "I enjoy shopping for clothes". There, I said it. Like I said, I've only done it twice this year and I have seen other guys do it and guess what? It's not that bad, in fact I enjoyed it! I would look and see what I like and see how it would match up with something else and put together a whole ensemble, it's fun!</p>
<p> There is one thing I did not realize though. I have some expensive taste! Clothes are expensive!I did not have a clue that they cost so much! Trisha buys all my clothes. Basically I'm her 6ft. 2in.,200lb babydoll! She gets to dress me like she wants me to look. I don't mind, she has great taste, but boy, I did not realize clothes are expensive! I know I said that before but I just did not realize the cost. I never thought about it. I know I always wear quailty clothes and quailty cost money but I never really thought about how much money. </p>
<p> I have an understanding now. I understand now when she says that I have to change shoes before I work on the car, or change shirts before I work in the yard. You see I would just wear whatever I had on to do whatever I was going to do. I didn't understand the cost. Wow, it's like when you were a child and your parents made you take off your school clothes when you got home. Listen you guys can't tell anyone about this!</p>
<p> As I said I have an understanding now of the cost of things, and it ain't cheap! I try to take better care of what I have because I know the cost, I know the price, I know what it took for me to look like I do.</p>
<p> I just thought about something. It would be crazy for me to know what it cost, to know it wasn't cheap and to treat what I have as if it was free, as if it was cheap, as if it wasn't worth taking care of, as if it were nothing.</p>
<p> You know I'm going there but I still have to say it. Salvation is free but it comes with a cost. A perfect man gave His life for me, Jesus, who is the Christ. I have to do a better job with what He has given me. Life.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897192012-10-22T20:00:00-04:002020-01-12T11:02:43-05:00WHY THESE WORDS??!
<p>Every now and then, actually it's rare when I'm given words for music without being able to truly connect it to an event, real or imagined. But, I have noticed that in those situations the words are for a future event to come.</p>
<p> God will not give you a task, an assignment, a job a whatever you want to call it without giving you what you need to accomplish it.</p>
<p> Now I know why the lyrics I have for a new song are there, I have direction.</p>
<p> When doing what God has for you to do, going where He tells you to go, He will put people before you and just as important He will put you before others to be a blessing to them. He will let you know what you need to know, in time.</p>
<p> Don't worry, just move. He will direct your path.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897182012-10-13T20:00:00-04:002020-01-12T11:02:43-05:00The Unknown unknowns
<p>"There are known knowns. These are things we know that we know. There are known unknowns. That is to say, there are things that we know we don't know. But there are also unknown unknowns. There are things we don't know we don't know." Donald Rumsfeld</p>
<p> There were those who when they first heard this laughed. There were others who said "What in the world is he talking about!".I must admit that I was one who had to think about what he was saying. But once I did I was like "Yeah, that's deep."</p>
<p> It would seem that for most of us the known knowns and known unknowns are not a problem. We know what we know and we know what we don't know. But the problem for most of us is in the last part of Donald Rumsfeld's statement, the unknown unknowns.</p>
<p> We face and deal with our challenges based on what we know and what we know we don't know, not taking in account that there are things we don't know we don't know.</p>
<p> Case in point. Whenever God puts someone in front of me to help me accomplish a goal they almost always ask me "What do you want to know." My answer is always the same. "I don't know. I don't know what I don't know. Tell me what I need to know." I have found that people are willing to share their knowledge and will tell you what you want to know. But if you only ask questions about the things you know that you don't know then they will only give you the answers to those questions. The last thing I want them to say later is "Oh, you did not ask me about that." I always say "Tell me what I need to know."</p>
<p> God is here to help us with the known knowns, the known unknowns and the unknown unknowns. Don't be afraid to ask, just say Lord, tell me what I need to know.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897172012-10-05T20:00:00-04:002012-10-06T13:13:03-04:00The Bigger the Headache!
<p> The bigger the headache, the bigger the pill. That's a line from a song I used to listen to a long time ago. The cool thing about lyrics are that they can mean a lot of things, it just depends on the listener.</p>
<p> We've come a long way. Some of the sicknesses and diseases that at one time were deadly are now just mere inconviences. All we have to do is take a pill. If it is a little more serious take two! The bigger the headache, the bigger the pill!</p>
<p> Now we have an expectation, that whatever is wrong it can be quickly, efficiently, and painlessly cured. If not we begin to panic.</p>
<p> Unfortunately there is another expectation. We expect God to work in our favor quickly, efficiently, and painlessly! If not we begin to panic.</p>
<p> This is what I ask. Believe, have faith in God. Believe who He is and what He is. Our Father. There is so much He wants to, can do and will do for you, it's in His word. You will never have to go through alone, just ask Him, say, Father!</p>
<p> God is not a pill.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897162012-09-20T20:00:00-04:002012-09-21T13:09:42-04:00The Answer Is Simple
<p> </p>
<p> An interviewer was on the high speed train from Peking to Shanghai and asked a question of one of the passengers. A question about foreigners or tourist who come to visit. The old man, in answering the question talked about how those who site see in the big cities and urban areas are prone to think how progressive and modern China is.</p>
<p> He began to lament that the view of high rises and busy streets is only the smallest part of China that the tourist see. He went on to explain that most Chinese live in the countrysides of these huge cities and that they are poor, very poor. That the gap between most Chinese who are poor and the few rich is constantly growing.</p>
<p> As the high speed train stopped for a minute at the birthplace of Confucius the interviewer asked another question. "How", he asked, "do you solve this problem?"</p>
<p> The old man looked out his window at the place where Confucius was born and measured his answer to make sure he did not say anything that would get him in trouble with the authorities.</p>
<p> "The answer is simple", he said. "But it is difficult for those who have the power to solve it".</p>
<p> I know what the answer is. Your answer may be different than mine.</p>
<p> What's your answer? Let me know.</p>
<p> " The answer is simple, but it is difficult for those who have the power to solve it"</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897142012-09-16T20:00:00-04:002020-01-12T11:02:42-05:00Beam me up Scotty!
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/c46c5ba8810cb2a6414dff9a833c2a2d9b78f64e/original/wp-000202.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NjgxeDMyMiJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="322" width="681" /> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> "To boldly go where no man has gone before". Well actually others have gone where Rannons' Call is going, but it will be new to us! We are willing. Willing to do what we have not done,be what we have not been in order to go where we have not gone. Captian Kirk was never afraid and neither are we. More importantly Abraham was not afraid when God said "go" don't worry about where it is, I'll show you when you get there! Wow! Now that's some serious faith!</p>
<p> I recently heard a gospel artist talk about how it's time for something different in gospel music, an inclusion of different styles and how it needs to get outside the four walls of the church building. Hmmmmm.</p>
<p> From the beginning Rannons' Call has been different. From the beginning Rannons' Call has gone outside the building of the church to reach others. From the beginning Rannons' Call gospel music has been different. I love the reason why this is so. It's simply because it is who we are, it is what we have been called to do.</p>
<p> It would seem that in order to complete the mission we will have to be willing to do what we have not done. Be what we have not been.</p>
<p> To go where we have not gone. Don't be afraid to complete your mission, your calling, your vision, your dream. Captian Kirk wasn't, Abraham wasn't and neither are we! </p>
<p>We won't leave you, if you want to go.</p>
<p> The church has left the building.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897122012-09-06T20:00:00-04:002020-01-12T11:02:42-05:00MEDIOCRE
<p> </p>
<p> There's this thing that has been on my mind for a minute. I have thought on it,meditated on it and have come to a conclusion. After careful thought I have determined that it is not easy being mediocre.</p>
<p> Yes, I said NOT.</p>
<p> You see out of my own frustrations of falling, of failing, of not being where I want to be, I had to take a hard look at what it would take for me to be mediocre. I had to see if it would be easier for me to settle for less and not go through the struggle of wanting more, of being more. I needed to know what it would take for me to just be mediocre. In all honesty it would take a lot of work. Now I know that's not what we have been told, that in order to be mediocre all you have to do is nothing. But, I need you to hear me out and let me make my case.</p>
<p> I submit that it takes work to be mediocre. In order to be mediocre I would have to work at not having a dream, at not being a dreamer. I would have to put in my mind that I am less than who I am, and that's it's okay to be mediocre. I would have to work at convincing myself that I am not able to do no more than just enough to get by.</p>
<p> I would have to work at believing that all that God has for me to do is to live and die. To be mediocre I would have to have no faith that God has a plan for me to contribute and distribute to others what He has given me.</p>
<p> In hindsight because we know the end of the story, it is easy to chastise those in the exodus from Egypt who wanted to go back and be slaves again. They did not know it would be that hard to get to what was promised, but they knew what to expect in Egypt no matter how harsh. Now they would have to work at being less than what they were. They would have to put in their minds that it was okay to be less than what they were. They would have had to convince themselves that being mediocre was okay. That takes work, convincing yourselve that you are less than what you are.</p>
<p> After careful consideration I looked closely at what it would take for me to be mediocre, what it would do to me mentally. I have studied the pros and the cons and have come to this conclusion.</p>
<p> I would rather struggle for more than settle for less. I could'nt live with myself any other way. I don't want to say, "What if" because I did'nt do all I could to be all I know God wants me to be.</p>
<p> I would rather struggle for more than settle for less.</p>
<p> I would rather struggle for more than settle for less.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897102012-08-29T20:00:00-04:002012-08-30T11:50:02-04:00THE LIST
<p> A few years ago I was getting a checkup from my doctor, he asked the usual questions about my diet, exercise, etc.</p>
<p> My blood pressure was high so he asked if I had been under any stress. I said "What, other than life?!</p>
<p> Now I know Christians are not suppose to experience stress and that Christians know how to handle each and every situation perfectly! Unfortunately, I don't live in that world!</p>
<p> I like to think I'm pretty cool, No drama! That's what I think. Don't ask anyone who knows me!!</p>
<p> I recently had to rethink things because I was going over the list. You know, The List! I believe everyone has at least one. A list of things to do, the list of things you are not able to do. The list of things you didn't do. The list of things you should have done. I can make a list of list!!! You get the idea.</p>
<p> Ok, back to me rethinking my list. When I woke up a few mornings ago I immediately began to go over my lists. Yes, lists with an "S". I then said, "Father, thank you for giving me another day." I know this is a simple sentence, that some of us may say it matter-of-factly. But when I said it, it hit me. It was as if I was being reminded. Being reminded of who God is, what He is, and where He is. I know what I'm saying is nothing new. I know that we all know. But, every now and then it is good to be reminded. I feel my Help!</p>
<p> I still have lists. But, I'm cool, no drama. I have seen Him too many times cross items of my list! I feel my Help!!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897082012-08-20T20:00:00-04:002012-08-21T13:27:37-04:00REJECT APATHY
<p> </p>
<p> A while back I was getting on the highway when I heard a noise coming from my vehicle. I quickly pulled over, got out and sure enough I had a flat tire. No problem. I popped the trunk, grabbed the spare tire, lug wrench, jack....wait a minute, no Jack!</p>
<p> As I was comtemplating my next move a heavy duty pick-up truck with a huge trailer pulled over. The driver asked if I was okay. After explaning about my jack or lack thereof he quickly went to his trailer, pulled out a jack, got on the ground and jacked my vehicle up! I got the lug wrench and began to take the lugs off but it was the wrong wrench, it didn't fit! He went back to his trailer and got an assortment of sockets and in no time we changed the tire.</p>
<p> He loaded his tools and hopped in his truck so quickly that I had to hurry to catch him. I told him that I didn't have any money on me and that we could stop by an ATM. His response was "No, we are here to help one another" and he drove off.</p>
<p> There have been other times since then, when strangers have helped me without wanting or accepting anything in return. Although they didn't say it ,I believe it was because of that same thought, that we are here to help one another.</p>
<p> I recently listened to an interview with a super hero from Canada. Yes, a real, live super hero. Mask, cape, tights, the whole nine yards! He walks the streets helping the homeless in any way he can. His costume is his way of bringing attention to the plight of the homeless. There are others, the bicycle riders with trailers full of food, distributing to the needy, the woman in Maryland opening her doors to at risk girls, and so many more. All do it not for recognition, but simply because we are here to help one another.</p>
<p> In the interview with the super hero from Canada, there was something that was said that is hard for some to do, something we have to work at, and that is to "reject apathy".</p>
<p> Reject apathy. As the man that helped me would say "We are here to help one another."</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897062012-08-11T20:00:00-04:002012-08-11T17:23:11-04:00THEY
<p> "They". This word for me, means someone other than myself. "They" is a word that in my mind I don't use when writing a song. Every song I write is about me or someone that I know. Even when this is not the case, it is! I put myself or someone I care about in the moment, in the situation. It has to be personal for me, I have to feel the environment, it has to be real.</p>
<p> As long as there is a Bible and people, I will always have a song to write. All I have to do is read, look and listen to the Word and to people. There will be music in the message that can help get us through this life.</p>
<p> The song "Rannons' Call" came about because someone I know came to me because they were ridiculed for giving their last to a homeless person. She gave not knowing if the person would do what was right with the gift. Sometimes you have to take a chance.</p>
<p> All I could tell them was "God will honor your gift"</p>
<p> God will honor your gift.</p>
<p> I find it quite easy to walk by the homeless person, the victim of domestic violence, the veteran with scars on their body and in their mind, the single parent that can not make ends meet, the youth that has been bullied, the outcast because they look or act different and so many more. Quite easy. All I have to do is, in my mind say"they", and they become different than me. "They" become, invisible.</p>
<p> But, what if "they" were me. What if, instead of "them" it is us.</p>
<p> "It's so easy to chose not to see the pain, but she can't walk away. Not so easy." These are the lyrics that begin the song "Rannons' Call".</p>
<p> I want our first video to reflect the song and ministry of Rannons' Call. How to do this in a five minute video? I don't know! Yet! Prayer and meditation, prayer and meditation!</p>
<p> Give me your comments, suggestions, ideas. Do you want to help? Lend your experitise, talents? Let me know.</p>
<p> What if "they" were me. What if, instead of "them" it is us.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897042012-08-04T20:00:00-04:002012-08-05T01:43:20-04:00OUR FINAL CAMEO APPEARANCE WINNER!
<p>Our final cameo appearance winner is none other than....<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/b8bf5227ae8c2ef2b406c2caee28606da61d7768/original/omega-mebane.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MjA2eDIwMyJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="203" width="206" /> Omega L. Mebane!</p>
<p> Congratulations Omega! You're our final winner to make a cameo appearance in our very first video!</p>
<p> Omega was chosen from the final round of those who voted. We will contact you when it's time for the video shoot. Be prepared to spend some time hanging out with Rannons' Call!</p>
<p> Thank you to everyone who supported us by voting. To those who support us by buying Cds',downloads, attending our concerts and those who pray for our ministry.</p>
<p> Now it's time to start work on the video! From concept to final project I will keep you posted weekly on our progress.</p>
<p> Again thank you!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897022012-08-03T20:00:00-04:002012-08-04T01:40:59-04:00OUR THIRD CAMEO APPEARANCE WINNER!
<p>Our third cameo appearance winner is none other than....<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/68bbca8ff0522788c2e3960114ffed3b603ffcae/original/shawnette.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MTkyeDIwMCJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="200" width="192" /> Shawnette Pate!</p>
<p> Congratulations Shawnette! You are our third winner to make a cameo appearance in our very first video!</p>
<p> Shawnette was picked from the first round of winners and has been supportive of Rannons' Call from the very beginning.</p>
<p> Well, there is only one more name left and they will be chosen from this last round. It still can be you! The name will be announced tomorrow. Stay tuned!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60897012012-08-02T20:00:00-04:002012-08-02T19:48:53-04:00OUR SECOND CAMEO APPEARANCE WINNER!
<p> </p>
<p> Our second cameo appearance winner is none other than.....<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/d4d97a65931df7ea48782ddf9faa12f76432e32b/original/mike-sexton.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MTgweDIyNSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="225" width="180" /> Mike Sexton</p>
<p> Congratulations Mike, you are our second winner to make a cameo appearance in our very first video!</p>
<p> We thank you for voting in both rounds for your choice for our very first video. We will contact you and give you plenty of time before your appearance, so be prepared to spend some time hanging out with Rannons' Call. Again congratulations and thank you for voting!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896992012-08-01T20:00:00-04:002012-08-02T00:05:22-04:00THE FIRST CAMEO APPEARANCE WINNER!
<p> </p>
<p> The first winner is none other than...... <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/f778afeeefb4a7abb0b46cdaf97aa524706c52a4/original/betsy-fulton.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MTgweDEzNSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="135" width="180" /> Ms. Betsy Fulton</p>
<p> Congatulations Betsy! In all honesty Betsy is one who we did not pick at random. She was the first to get our CD online and the first to vote in the contest. We wanted to do something special for her to show our appreciation. What better way than to have her also be the first one picked to make a cameo in our first video!</p>
<p> Betsy, although you live a few hundred miles away in Atlanta,Ga., don't worry! As I said before if you are chosen, no matter where you live, you will be in the video, we will make it happen! </p>
<p> Betsy, we will contact you in plenty of time so that you can pack your bags and be ready to spend some time hanging out with Rannons' Call!</p>
<p> Well, there you have it! Our first winner, Ms. Betsy Fulton. Tomorrow there will be another. It may be you!</p>
<p> I'm excited!!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896972012-07-31T20:00:00-04:002012-07-31T22:23:53-04:00THE FINAL VOTE!!
<p> </p>
<p> That's right this is it the final tally!</p>
<p> WE have the list, we have checked it twice. We know who has been naughty and nice. Hold up! wrong list. </p>
<p> First, we like to thank all of you who thought enough of the ministry of Rannons' Call to participate in the voting. There is only one first video, and that you took the time to vote means a lot to us.</p>
<p> To recap. There will be Four winners from the overall vote count that will make a cameo appearance in the video. We will post the names of each winner, one a day, for the rest of the week because you are special..Awwww.</p>
<p> So here it is, without further ado, the song you choose as our very first video is.......</p>
<p> Rannons' Call</p>
<p> Thank you again to all that voted. Stay tuned throughout the week to see the winners. I will also keep you posted weekly on the progress and process of the video as we go though the stages from concept to final product.</p>
<p> You know what, depending on how this goes, we may need some extras! You never know!</p>
<p> Keep us in your prayers, that our minds stay focused on being a blessing first and foremost.</p>
<p> Again, Thank You</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896952012-07-22T20:00:00-04:002012-07-23T08:32:28-04:00The Last Week!!
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<p> That's right! This is the last week.....to vote for your favorite song for our very first video. The last week to be in the running for a cameo appearance in the video! The last week to....Okay, that's all I've got. But you get the point! I'm excited!!</p>
<p> It would be cool if you could do everything you want to do, when you wanted to do it. Have everything you want to have, when you wanted it. Or would it?</p>
<p> There is so much I want for Rannons' Call, for us to be a constant witness, a constant help, a blessing to as many as God puts before us. And I want to do it NOW!!!!</p>
<p> Patience,hmmm, that's why I was singing that song today!</p>
<p> I trust,I believe,I will not be discouraged and...I will be patient. As long as Rannons' Call will be guided by God, what He has for us will be. I'm excited!!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896932012-07-15T20:00:00-04:002012-07-16T09:26:18-04:00EMPLOYED BY MY VISION
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<p> "EMPLOYED BY MY VISION". As I walked in to teach youth church Sunday, those were the words that were emblazoned on the front of one of the teenagers shirt.</p>
<p> We spent the whole time with each person talking about their hopes,dreams,passions, their vision for their lives and what they are doing to work at it.</p>
<p> That saying is a creation of one of the young man's relatives, and I plan on getting the full story from him soon and will share it with you.</p>
<p> For Rannons' Call the meaning of those words were a reminder. A reminder to stay humble in the mist of the hard work that it takes to make this ministry prosper. To not take anything or anyone for granted. To especially know that our success depends upon us being a blessing to others. Finally to remember that our vision for us really isn't ours but God's. Rannons' Call will continue to work at, to be employed by God's vision for us.</p>
<p> "EMPLOYED BY MY VISION" say it with me! "EMPLOYED BY MY VISION". NOW GET TO WORK!!!!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p> P.S. I always end my blog with this scripture because I know sometimes the work is hard!</p>
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Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896912012-07-07T20:00:00-04:002012-07-07T17:08:37-04:00AND THE WINNER IS!!
<p> We counted, triple checked and verified the vote in our contest to see what our very first video would be and guess what, we don't have a winner! It was a tie!</p>
<p> Who'd a Thunked?!!</p>
<p> I was so ready to start work on the storyline and concept but for now we have to put that on hold. So we need you once again to vote for one of the two so that we can have a clear winner. </p>
<p> There will be four, yes four people who will make a cameo appearance in our first video. One each from the list of the two songs in the originial voting,one from the song list that wins the tie- breaker and one more.</p>
<p> Here are the two that won the most votes for our first video.</p>
<p>#1. Rannons' Call</p>
<p> It seems that I see more and more people who believe in the trinity. Unfortunately their trinity is Me, Myself and I. I cannot and will not ignore someone in need spiritually or physically, to walk by as if they are invisible. Just like I can look in a persons eyes and see their joy, I also can look in their eyes and see their pain. No one wants to be inconvenienced, no one has time. Rannons' Call the song and Rannons' Call the ministry is about being a help, a blessing to others without thought of personal gain, of what's in it for me. It comes naturally because it is in us, it is what we are called to do.</p>
<p> I thank God for the person who inspired me to write this song, by me seeing her give of herself over and over and over again, even at high cost. </p>
<p>#2. Only One Chance</p>
<p> Chance Kyron Pate, 21yrs old, my nephew. I first wrote this song as a way to release my pain of losing him. I also wrote it for those who knew him and for those who loved him. I also wrote this song because Chance was more than just a few lines in the local news. But, this song began to evolve into much more. It began to also be about those who take this life for granted. God is a God of second chances but He only gives us one chance at life. As hard as this was to write, it was easy because of his mother. The words poured out of her, all I had to do was listen.</p>
<p> Chance was a Christian and there are so many who speak about his positive influnence in their lives.</p>
<p> So there you have it. Two of the most powerful songs I have written. Both about the life we live and how we choose to live it. Both deserving of being the first video. Please take the time to go to our lyric page and read the words to each and make your choice on our VOTE FOR ME !! page.</p>
<p> This is a vote where there is no wrong choice!!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
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Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896892012-06-30T20:00:00-04:002012-07-01T13:57:13-04:00An insightful year
<p> This year has been going along great. We have wrapped up our video contest, counting the votes and are preparing for an outdoor event in august. We have also begun crafting songs for our next release.</p>
<p> We have well over 20 songs and it is just a matter of choosing which songs blend well together as a collective work. It also takes time to really bond with the songs in a way that it flows from us, all the little creative nuances that God gives us to really get His word across.</p>
<p> We hope to have the video contest results in by next weeks blog so stay tuned!</p>
<p> So, again thanks for voting in the video contest and thank you for your prayers and support. </p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21 </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896882012-06-23T20:00:00-04:002012-06-24T11:42:15-04:00Last Up! Reginald Wade !
<p> Our last look insde Rannons' Call features non other than me!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/78f8f7797e389fc0fcf0ef02f5008813cb06b68c/original/img-0402.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MTYweDIwMiJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="202" width="160" /> Reginald Wade !!</p>
<p> Wow! What can I say about me as it relates to the ministry Rannons' Call?</p>
<p> It's all about giving what God has given, the lyrics the music. It's about using the gifts, the talents that God has given.</p>
<p> There is nothing like a song that speaks to you, that touches you where and when you need it. This is what I want this ministry to do.</p>
<p> Yes I've been told that we would be millionaires if we played secular music but, it's not about the money. It's about being a comfort, a light, a blessing, a witness.</p>
<p> I write about what I see in my life and the lives of others and point the way to Jesus. As long as there is a world and a bible, I will never run out of things to write about. The lives of people and the Word of God inspire what I write.</p>
<p> I believe that God will put before us those who will recieve what He has given us. So we will continue to be true to our style of music and to God. It's who we are. I kind of have to believe that He knows what He is doing!</p>
<p> The only way Rannons' Call is a success is because of you. Because the songs speak to you. We thank you for letting us minister to you and ask that you continue to support us.</p>
<p> There is music in the message..</p>
<p> Tune in next week as we start a new series. Don't forget to vote for your favorite song for our very first video. You may just make a cameo appearance!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
<p>20. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,</p>
<p>21. Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896852012-06-16T20:00:00-04:002012-06-17T11:24:35-04:00Next Up! Patricia Connor Wade!
<p>This week's look inside Rannons' Call features non other than. Ahhhhhhhh.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/62793aa4bf76b04e223fba51d3a5ddcd09c2edd0/original/trishas-fav-0018.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MjIzeDMzNSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="335" width="223" /> Patricia Connor Wade!</p>
<p> Trisha wears many hats for Rannons' Call. She's our booking agent,contact person,and so much more. Oh yeah,she is also our lead singer!</p>
<p> Before Rannons' Call there was Trisha,so she has been here before the beginning and knows the challenges and joys of this ministry.</p>
<p> As a lead singer Trisha's job would be easy if all she had to do was just sing, but she can't. You see,the melody is the only thing,other than the lyrics that I know exactly what I want, maybe! Things such as pronounciatons,dynamics, every little twist,I know what I want it to sound like. Before there are any adjustments to the presentation of the lyrics, she first has to do these things like I want them in order for us to decide if there are any changes to be made.</p>
<p> What makes her job even more challenging,to convey the lyrics exactly how I want them is that, I can't sing! How in the world can she know how to sing what I want if I can't show her?! First you have to know a person, how they think, second you have to be patient,third you have to be prepared for a whole lot of "yeah that's it", "No, that's not it","Do this", "Try that", fourth, you have to be patient. I know I said patience twice, but patience is what she has with me when we are developing a song and I appreciate it!</p>
<p> Again, knowing me has made her job easier! Oh Oh, I think I better clarify that statement! She understands me, my thought process and the flavor I want the song to convey.(Nice recovery!)</p>
<p> There is music in the message. Trisha's name can easily be beside mine on every lyric I have ever written. If she has doubts on a phrase or word we change it. She sings with the conviction of a person who believes what she sings,and she won't do that unless she believes it.</p>
<p> Most importantly, Trisha knows the Word of God,has a deep understanding of the Word of God,and lives the Word of God,and thankfully she is my minister. She continually encourages me in the vision for Rannons' Call. She has what I call "That Crazy Faith"! I need that from her, But, then again, God already knew that.</p>
<p> Don't forget to vote for your favorite song for our very first video and tune in again next week for our final look inside Rannons' Call. I wonder who's left!!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
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Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896832012-06-09T20:00:00-04:002012-06-10T00:02:25-04:00Next Up! John Harvell !
<p> This weeks look inside Rannons' Call takes it to the stage with none other than our own......</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/46c614b9046642311fd546c67c14f924727c068e/original/john0054.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MzAweDIwMCJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="200" width="300" /> John (Big John),(Wiggs) Harvell</p>
<p> Proverbs 18:16,"A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men." </p>
<p> The first thing I said to God was "Lord, I need John". If God's Gift to me are the words, and my assignment is to go out and deliver them in song, then I knew I needed John. I had not seen him in a long time, did not have his phone number or knew where he lived, but....the Lord made room for my gift and honored my request and put John before me!</p>
<p> I don't play without him!</p>
<p> That's about as plain as I can get, I don't play without him. Yes, he is a great bass player, yes, his style compliments Rannons' Call. But, it's about more than that with John and myself. He sees what I want a song to convey musically, he knows where I want it to go. His presence is such that I don't even look to hear what he's doing in a song, it's already and always there. John will sometimes hear a song that we are developing and say" This has that or this flavor", and I'm like,yeah. He hears what I hear. I truly wish I could describe what it means to have someone with you who hears what you hear,and sees what you see.</p>
<p> John is also our resident quailty control. If you almost miss a note, not miss a note but almost miss a note, he will hear it! When he says we have done a good job on a song,you better believe it's tight! He doesn't do a lot of talking so when he does speak, I listen. He's not going to say it twice so I try to get it the first time! Whether it's about a particular song, the music in general or the ministry itself, I listen. His opinion carries a lot of weight with me and I value it. </p>
<p> In co-writing "Open Eyes" with John he really made it easy. He already had the musicial foundation and most importantly the biblicial inspiration. He said "I want to talk about the power of God", and then he was specific and began to talk about Ezekiel 37:1-14. It is from that passage of scripture that the words came to me.</p>
<p> I always look and marvel at how Jimi Hendrix,when in concert would decide to do something totally unplanned in a song and would look over at Billy Cox to let him know. Billy Cox would never look up but would be right on every note Hendrix would play! It's about more than knowing the song, You have to know the person to do that, there has to be a connection. John and I know each other and I can't stress this enough, he hears what I hear, sees what I see. </p>
<p> He is my friend and...I don't play without him.</p>
<p> Tune in next week as we continue to take a look inside Rannons' Call. Also,don't forget to vote for your favorite song for our very first video. You may just make a cameo appearance!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896812012-06-02T20:00:00-04:002012-06-02T17:57:14-04:00Next up! Jasper Salary!!
<p>Continuing our series "Inside Rannons' Call" is our very own.....drum roll please!</p>
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<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/b1a78810bfee5040770126bc4fadfe124fb3a36d/original/img-0391.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MjI2eDIwNyJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="207" width="226" /> Jasper (Scoot) Salary!</p>
<p> "Can you play?" These were the first words I said to Scoot when I met him! You have to understand that I have encountered people in the the past that may have thought more highly of their skills than they should or to be nice about it, needed more time to develop them!</p>
<p> Jasper looked at me, gave me a humble answer and sat down to play. He finished,got up, and I looked at him and said,"Yeah, you can play!!"</p>
<p> For some, drums are just a means for the rest of the band to keep time,to fill in some space. When I hear Jasper play, I hear an instrument. He has a feel, no it's not a feel, it's a gift,where he knows what sounds to create to make the music more than what I invisioned. There have been so many times when I have missed a note or forgotten where I was in a song because I was so busy listening to Jasper. I hear him do something an just have to say to myself ,"Man, that was Sick!".</p>
<p> Our songs have a flavor that goes from country to rock, to everything in-between and Jasper does it all with skill and passion effortlessly. He's not just a drummer,but a musician whose weapon of choice are the drums.</p>
<p> When we go out to minister in song and I have Jasper behind me,yeah,I just smile. It's a feeling,a connection. </p>
<p> So,not only can he play, but his style of play is perfect for Rannons' Call. When you hear our music keep in mind that there are only 3 instuments. We recorded our CD live. No overdubs, no layers!</p>
<p> On top of all of this, he is a friend and more so, a student of Gods' word. It doesn't get any better than that!</p>
<p> Tune in again next week as we continue our look inside Rannons' Call,and don't forget to vote for your favorite song for our first video! You may just make a cameo appearance!</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896792012-05-26T20:00:00-04:002012-05-26T17:52:01-04:00First Up: Valerie Sharpe!
<p> As promised last week I thought it would be a good idea to share with you an inside look at Rannons' Call. My perspective,thoughts, if you will,about what makes us indiviually unique and how it complements us as a whole.</p>
<p> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/393681/2f448f8f0df3c08c0b9d6ebfe07dca8912b26a71/original/img-0406.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MTQ3eDEzNiJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="136" width="147" />So, without further ado! First up is Valerie Sharpe!</p>
<p> Valerie is our background singer. I have come to realize that not only is her role critical to our sound,but that it is also hard and can sometimes be overlooked!</p>
<p> Lets look at it this way. A lead singer will sing a song in the key that's best suited to their voice. A background singer has to sing in that key whether it compliments their voice or not. They also have to make their voices blend and not just harmonize with the lead singer,which means that they make sure they breathe when the lead breathes,offer the same inflections,dynamics,phrasings to the words, the notes. This doesn't mean that they sound like the lead singer, but their voices have to compliment each other. Believe me, I have seen and heard people who can sing but cannot do these things. Valerie is able to do all of these things.</p>
<p> More important than being a great singer is your ability to connect with the other members. Valerie is funny,witty and definitely has a sharp (pun intended) tongue! She makes rehearsals a lot more fun!</p>
<p> With just three instruments and two vocals we fill up a room with sound and Valerie plays no small part in making this happen. She is serious about getting it right and always comes prepared with her best. Valerie is committed to the ministry of Rannons' Call. It's about being a blessing to someone through the words, the music, the song. She takes that seriously and we can't ask for anything more. Thanks Val.</p>
<p> Don't forget to vote for the song that we use for our first video and be sure to check us out next week as we continue to look inside Rannons' Call. </p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21</p>
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Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896772012-05-19T20:00:00-04:002012-05-20T07:58:45-04:00Inside Rannons' Call
<p> Over the coming weeks I thought it would be a good idea to highlight or give a mini profile so to speak, of the members of Rannons' Call. It will be from my perspective. To let you see what I see in them,what they bring to the table, Their unique qualities that makes the ministry of Rannons' Call special. All are gifted individually, and collectively we complement each others gifts to the point that I know God has put us together for such a time as this.Next week kicks off our first profile so stay tuned!</p>
<p> Also, don't forget to let us know what song you would like for us to use for our very first music video, there's still time. </p>
<p> Thank you for supporting us and letting us be a blessing to you.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21 </p>
Rannons' Calltag:rannonscall.com,2005:Post/60896752012-05-14T20:00:00-04:002021-05-18T03:46:16-04:00One Year Anniversary!
<p> Well it's been one year since the debute of our first CD and the response has been great! We not only have a great fan base here in the U.S., but we are a blessing in Russia, China and other countries as well! We have more than enough material for our next CD and it's only because of Gods' hand upon us. But, before we go into the studio for our next CD I really would like to do at least one video.So this is where you can be a great help. You tell us which song you think should be our first video! Who knows, you might make a cameo appearance!</p>
<p> We really need your help in this. Ministry through song isn't the easiest thing in the world but,it's what we have been called to do, and we will give you and God our best! Again, help us pick our first video, we need you. </p>
<p>Thank you for your support and prayers.</p>
<p> Reginald</p>
<p> Ephesians 3:20,21 </p>
Rannons' Call