Yes Yes I know this blog needs lots of help…Sorry not much of the blogger type, but it is neat when I get to share some cool stories.

I recently went to Alabama to do 6 concerts in 3 days. It was a very tiring time, but I was tremendously blessed. He never ceases to amaze me at how he blesses when we are faithful. I was able to do 2 school sessions at Westbrook Christian Academy and had a blast. First i shared with the elementary and than I was able to share with the secondary kids. At one point as I let the kids ask me questions, I was mobbed by them after I autographed a CD and I asked who wanted it. I had to apologize to the teachers for the disruptiveness and mass chaos… ha ha ha

The most amazing thing is that I received word that a couple of the kids either rededicated their lives to the Lord or received Him as Lord and Saviour…now that is awesome and the main reason I do what I do.

Later that day I had a tremendous opportunity to visit BIG OAK RANCH where John Croyle a former defensive end who played under Paul “Bear” Bryant opened his heart to abused and troubled kids. I could write on and on about how amazing the place was and how God truly blesses them, but I would encourage you to visit the site and read all about this great organization and pray about how you can help them. It was truly a GOD thing to see how this one guy, who followed the voice of the Lord instead of taking a ride to the NFL, helps so many children who are deserving of a second chance at life. I really felt the joy and love of these people who run this organization and they truly enjoyed what they did….now go to the site!!!

For the rest of my trip, I sang at 4 other venues and was blessed beyond measure. I cannot wait to visit again next year and bring my whole family to meet all of the lovely people that I met, now who I call my friends.

Til Next Time,

J

Well guys my wife and I got back from Nashville, and we had a really good time, of just being together. It was the first time in our 10 years that we ever left our children for more than 2 nights. Staci was a little bit worried, but she soon got over it. Of course tho as we were away Chloe decides to have a fever and get all blotchy on us. That added a bit more stress to the situation, but in the end, everyone was fine.

The reason we even went to Nashville, (during our anniversary) was to network, get insight and enter a competition for GMA called Immerse. This was the very first time I have ever contemplated about doing something like this, but I thought it would be a good learning experience, and it certainly was.

Ok people hold your breath because the information below may startle you…

I learned that even tho it is called the Christian Music Industry/Business, it is just that a business. Yes I know I should’ve already known that, but hey we all have some sort of blinders on. I learned that selling merchandise, CD’s, tickets and being the trend are all what you need in order for you to be successful at this “business”. Money and networking are also key points. The last thing on their mind (not all, bust most) is the ministry aspect. I went to a few “classes” they had their and it was all about trends. They had the college years trend, with Bebo, Caedmon’s Call, Jars of Clay etc., They had the singer/songwriter trend, with Chris Rice, Scott Krippanye, Ginny Owens, etc., They had the worship trend where everyone jumped on that bandwagon…the trend goes on and on. As far as I know, their hasn’t been a handicapped trend…don’t see one in the future as well.

What I did learn was to be thankful and content with where God has me. I am very successful in raising three beautiful girls, having a healthy loving marriage and following the steps that God pre-ordained for my life. This was one of the things that Michael W Smith spoke about at this event which rings so true. He stated that he thought it was all about him in the past, but as he gets older he realizes it’s all about Jesus. You can get all these great earthly awards, recognitions and atta-boy’s, but what do they really mean when we leave this earth. Your answer = absolutely nada. I’d much rather have known that I TRIED to live my life for HIS honor and glory to the best of my ability, than to pour my heart and soul and time away from my family (my 1st priority) into something that I can get recognized for down here that is quickly fading. Unfortunately some of the artists that they had perform haven’t really come to that realization. Not naming any names, but most performers were very self absorbed, I did this and that, and self glorified themselves that it was almost comical. Went to an evening concert, and wasn’t impressed. This girl performed and she hardly even sang. She sells records, but has more effects on her microphone and backing tracks than Ashlee Simpson. I did not feel God at this point of the concert. Than a group came out, that I really liked and felt they’re humble attitudes. I am now a new fan of Leeland. These guys from Baytown, Texas really showed their emotion, heart and love for Christ. It really was refreshing, and I really didn’t know much of their music prior. I even walked past em outside prior to the concert, and only recognized them cause of Leeland’s red hair. After the evening concert I felt that they were one of the few who were in it for the real reason.

After the concert they showed up on powerpoint who was a semi-finalist from the category that I entered. Lo and behold my name popped up. So I was pretty excited yet still looking forward to the following day to showcase my talent that God had given to me. I sang “Home” by Daughtry that following day and thought I did very well…but later on I did not receive admission to the finals. I was one of 75 people who was cut down to 6. I received some critiquing on my “performance”…some stated I need a broader vocal range, more musicianship (playing skills/technique), more audience appeal, and my marketability is non-existent..there’s that no arms thing comin back to haunt me…lol

I tried to take all the things that are out of my control in good spirits, but I was very disappointed. I was like this is how the world treats me, not Christian people…but they did, and they do…so what’s next…?

Well what’s next is continuing to be a good husband, father and leaning on God to guide me thru everything He wants to bring me thru. I am blessed beyond measure!!

A few people I enjoyed getting to know for very brief periods of time were:
Michael O’Brien - soloist/ex lead singer of Newsong
Bubba Smith - producer
Jeff Nelson - producer
Mitchell Solarek - manager

After I knew I was not advancing, I wanted to at least go downtown and see Nashville and all its glory. So since Staci (bless her heart as Texans say) agreed on this Anniversary trip which was pretty much all for me, (she has never been to Nashville and could care less) I at least wanted her to have a good time since Hawaii was not on the agenda this year.

We had a great time just enjoying each other’s company and sight seeing. We went to the country music hall of fame, and also studio B where my favorite singer of all time, Elvis, recorded many many albums.

We also went on a boat trip that included a very nice lunch and show with Tim Watson. He is a crck up and more than anything a phenomenal fiddler. We really had a blast.

Thanks for reading. Hope I didn’t bore you too much, I know it’s long winded. I’ll try to be a better blogger, I swear….

Off to Alabama….

Jon

Well I know an update is needed, so here it goes. About 3 weeks ago my friends (band ie., Johnny G, J-Moon, Britton and JG) and I headed to New Braunfels to do an outreach. It was called Freedom ‘09 and what an amazing time we had! We had close to 2,000 people show up for the event that was promoted by K-love and Chick-fil-a. At the end of the evening they gave a harley away, and it was won by a lady whose hubby always wanted one, who was in Iraq serving our country. So I thought that was really awesome. Now he can come home and ride his bike after a much difficult tour of duty.

The guys and I were the ones who did the praise and worship for the event, and I always consider it such a huge honor and a very humbling experience when I can lead others to the throne of our creator. It is never a performance or a show, it is a out-pouring of our cries, praises and thanks to Him. I know that not only were we blessed but were able to be a blessing to the crowd. We had a blast. I can’t wait for the next event. This is what it’s all about. I want to say that if it weren’t for my guys, It wouldn’t have gone so awesome as it did, so a big Thanks to each of them and their families who came and supported them. You guys rock!!

The main speaker was big james henderson who is a trip and who could rip your arm off if you shake his hand. Glad I don’t have any…hahaha

He did a testimony/strength presentation that really changed some hearts. We had kids and adults alike just flood the stage as BJM asked people to come forward. There is an amateur video shot of this on youtube. Click here for linky goodness.

Well guys nex time I will blog is after my wife and I get back from Nashville. We will be meeting with booking agents and record label execs, etc., To get a label or agent would be great, but pray that the people God has me set up with want this to be about the ministry and not about the money. It’s still a business, but we need to remember why we do what we do and WHO we do it for.

Oh and remember the thing that I was hoping would happen…well yup it never came to fruition, and after watching what I have been watching, I’m glad it didn’t…and as Forrest Gump put it so plainly “That’s all I have to say about that”.

Peace,

I wanted to show you guys an article that was done on me by Christi at the Huntsville Item. I couldn’t have been more pleased with it. I linked it here, so you can dload the .pdf format for it.

Article

Thanks For reading, and tell me what ya think!

I will blog next week about the One True Freedom Festival me and my band will be doing. I am leading the Praise and Worship and sharing some testimony. Please pray that lives or a life will be touched, because even if one life is changed, it is worth it all!!

Til Laters,
Jon

Well, I know I told you guys about leading p and w at my church for the Bill Glass Ministries, and I forgot to show you some shots. It was an awesome time tho. To see all these people from different backgrounds, and from all sort of creeds was amazing to see them all there for one thing…To Share the Love of God.

It is always very humbling for me to be allowed such amazing opportunities to leading people into the throne of God. I find it to be the best thing on earth. My pastor shared his testimony of how much of a hard heart and feelings he had for convicts while working in the system, when one of the inmates actually was the reason he gave his life over to Christ. That’s why it is so fun and awesome to go in with him. These guys really respect him as a person, and can see the change from where he was, to who he is now. And the stories they share, you’d never think it was the same person… HaHaHa

So my guys and I had a blast leading all these people and so I thought I’d share some photos.

God Bless You All,
Jon

Well the other weekend, a bunch of my family and friends went down to Ft. Worth and we met up with Bill Gaither and the Homecoming Tour. I was able to sing and share on the Saturday afternoon concert. It really does amaze me that God puts me in all these different situations to share my talent and love for Him. I mean one moment I am with Bill Gaither and the next I am singing for convicted murderers. How crazy is that? God has a great sense of humor, but the awesome thing is that where He wants you to be, how unorthodox it may seem to you, He knows it’s the right place.

My booth by the GVB

Talking with Bill

Please keep me in your prayers as there is something I am hoping comes to fruition, but I don’t want to go into detail about it. Just pray that if it is God’s will for my life, He will open the door and I will walk through it.

Thanks for Reading, and if what I am praying is God’s will, I will be blogging about it very soon, so check back often.

In His Love,
Jon

Well I feel like I always have to apologize regarding this blog. Either I am too busy to do it, or too lazy. I will not ask you guys to vote on which, cause I am afraid most will vote that latter…so just read and enjoy the many updates.
Well during Spring Break we went to visit our cousins who live in Biloxi, MS. We had a great time with Jack and Vera and the girls had a blast. See below for a few shots of them running around at the beach.

Sadie in the Sand

Anna building Sandcastles

Chloe in her new shades

While we were there we also visited the nasa John C. Stennis Space Center. It was very interesting, but the girls just liked getting in the space suit. I think I enjoyed it more than them…I even landed a shuttle via virtual reality with my feet. I destroyed 50 shuttles before I finally landed one.

Here are the 3 of us in suits…

We did so much that it never ever really feels like a vacation now that children are in the mix. It is always go, go, go. From the Ocean to the Game Room, the Mardi-Gras style St. Patty’s Day Parade to the boat, YaYa and Jack always have an agenda that keeps you on the non-stop action. We had a great time, and love them dearly. Thank you both for your love.

Well last week I went to a great church in Spring Texas called Sawdust Road Baptist Church. We had a blast and not only was I able to bless others, but I got a bunch in return. It never ceases to amaze me that God is such an awesome all-knowing loving God. He truly does take care of his children. We had such a great preacher named Bro Ed Ethridge. What an Awesome Awe-inspiring preacher he is. There’s not too many preachers that I enjoy listening to, or can keep my attention (maybe it’s because I watched too much tv when I was younger), but Bro Ethridge is one…as is my brother Rudy Sheptock and CF Hazlewood.
I would just like to encourage you this week to get in the Word and pray on a daily basis. My wife and I really are enjoying doing this together as we make each other accountable. Pray for me this week as I do all of you. I will be leading p and w at my church next Thursday night eve for a Bill Glass volunteer service, than singing Sunday morning for Bill Glass as he brings a message to us. I really am looking forward to leading p and w as it is my heart’s desire to lead His people into the throne room. I’m also looking forward to his message, since his ministry is to prisoners and that’s the most awesome place I have had the privilege and pleasure of ministering.
Well below are some shots I got from the church…Beacuse i know how much you guys love to see my pretty face and amazing attire.

Take Care and God Loves You!!
JS

The continuing saga of my so called blog…late as usual, but always entertaining with wit and dry humor.

Well Christmas time has sprung in the Sheptock household. The girls were very excited and this year was really funny watching Sadie tear into everything and not really caring much for the gift inside. I should have bought cardboard boxes and had Staci wrap them for her and she still would have had the time of her life.

Bags full of Gifts


Sadie getting in her fullback position, ready to tackle the sack that Santa left for her.


Anna and Sadie Head First in the Bags


Yo Gabba Gabba is Awesome!!

Chloe wants no part of it

Well Another season has come and gone, but God’s faithfulness is never failing. We had a great time of carols, hot chocolate, Rudolph, Frosty and the Peanuts Gang. And before we opened any gifts we remembered what Christmas is REALLY about. I’d like to quote a Charlie Brown Christmas

Charlie Brown:
(shouting in desperation) Isn’t there anyone out there who can tell me what Christmas is all about?
Linus Van Pelt:
Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you. Lights, please.

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the lord shone round about them, and they were so afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you this day is born in the City of Bethlehem, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men’”. That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie brown.

I pray you had a chance to Thank God for the greatest gift He has ever given to us, His son Jesus Christ. I hope you had a great ‘08 and you’ll have a fine ‘09. Keep checking back here periodically to see what plans God has in-store for my blessed family.
Til Next Time,
JS

Well i didn’t think I could get any lazier or more slackerer (if there is such a word) but leave it to me to do just that. For this I am sorry, but unfortunately you’ll get used to me.
Well we had a tragedy over the holiday season. Santa had brought Anna a hamster last year and unfortunately almost a year to the date, Shaggy as we like to say expired. We had a memorial for Shaggy and at the funeral service we sang these words by one of my favorite musical artist of all time Weird Al Yankovic. (We substituted Harvey’s name with Shaggy)

Shaggy Shaggy
Shaggy the Wonder Hamster
He doesnt bite and he doesnt squeal
He just runs around on his hamster wheel
Shaggy Shaggy
Shaggy the Wonder Hamster
Hey Shaggy!!

So Anna played with Shaggy almost every single day and was very very distraught, so mommy and daddy cried as well…it was our first dealing with death with Anna. So unfortunately in our time of mourning, I guess I slipped up and said that she could get a puppy. We already have a dog Buster who is my faithful companion, but I guess she thought she needed one too…so here is Sophie.

Pray I have patience in potty training, because yes she’s cute an all, but well you get the idea.

Til Next Time (and it won’t be a month)
JS