Our family is originally from the Midwest. While raising our children in Central Illinois, I enjoyed doing my work with the radio on, tuned into our Christian network. It was a friend to me and at times a lifeline in those busy years of child rearing.  My laundry room was tucked away with its own radio system to help pass the time while I folded an eternal stack of laundry several times each week.

One show I remember listening to frequently was Tony Evan’s program, “Urban Alternative.” I remember praying for this incredible orator and the work he was doing in the compromised urban regions of South Dallas. I admired him then and still do. His church, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, has remained prominent, and Pastor Evans has remained true to His Word and teachings.

The surprise of my life was God’s moving our family in 2000 to Dallas to work with the campus of Christ for the Nations. The campus was located in what at one time had been an elite area with rolling hills and beautiful grounds. However, soon the city began to expand toward the 85 acre campus, and changing times impacted the region. Coming as a stranger, I had no idea we were living in the hood where everyone was looking for a neighbor! I was just focused on the mission at hand and all of our family was grateful to be part of His plan. Then one day it hit me—we were neighbors of Tony Evans, and his church was just down the road from where we were living. God had sent us to the same region where I had been praying for my urban brother

The year my first book, “Seeing Beyond” was to be released, I met Tony Evans’ daughter, Priscilla Shirer. I loved her the first time I met her, and she was a tremendous encouragement to me as I faced new open doors and opportunities. If you have ever heard Priscilla teach the Bible, you will know why she is in demand. I recently told Tony, at our meeting at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention, that I knew his daughter Priscilla. He laughed big and said, “Everyone knows Priscilla.” Can the world really be this small and His sense of humor this great?

Psalms says it best. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.” I love His surprises with each tapestry thread intricately woven for the design of His choosing. Tony’s radio program might be based from a place we have held in common, but it is evident that it has not been an “alternative” plan but His strategic plan.

God bless you, Tony Evans, for your light that has made a difference and for your resounding voice that has brought His message of love worldwide. I have moved out of my laundry room and now to north of Dallas to join you on the frontlines of the sea of opportunity with my own radio feature. Thanks for blazing the trail for all of us to follow.

When you choose to look past the horizon… the sky is the limit!