Clear For All To See
You could feel it when you got there, the excitement was in the air. Everyone was looking forward to hearing some tremendous music and there was curiosity there too. Kirk Talley would be there, how was he? What would he say? What would he sing? Some even wondered how would this crowd react?
The concert started a few minutes early because Joy Promotions had a surprise for us. Cystal River would open up the concert. What harmony those guys had! This is an up and coming group you want to watch for. They sang the old songs and the new songs and the crowd loved them all.
Then Hope's Call took the stage. The family harmony that is so much a part of SGM found an audience that truly appreciated their talent. What wonderful talent and their smiling faces made you believe they truly knew what they were singing about.
Next was Anthony Burger, what is there to say that hasn't already been said? From the soul stirring 'Great is Thy Faithfulness' to the fun 'Swingin my way back home' Anthony was in his element. "Hallelujah Chorus" always gives me chill bumps. Anthony doing what he does best, making a piano 'speak' hope, encouragement and joy ! Lori joined Anthony for “No More Night”, her talent is truly breathtaking.
For a moment I thought we had a sound problem because we began to hear what sounded like a radio station or CB cutting in and coming in over the speaker. Then I realized it was a message that someone had left on Anthony's answering machine being played.
As the message thanking his buddy for being there ended, Anthony began to sing and play "Whatever it Takes" -"There's a voice calling me, from an old rugged tree and it whispers, draw closer to Me. Leave this world far behind, there are new heights to climb and a new place in Me you will find."
Then the voice from back stage "Take the dearest things to me, if that's how it must be, to draw me closer to Thee. Let the disappointments come, the lonely days without the sun if through sorrow more like you I become". As Kirk and Anthony proceeded to sing the chorus together, the crowd was on their feet, clapping, yelling, crying, it was an emotional time. As he walked out on stage to the applause and cheers of a full house, you could see the joy yet apprehension on his face. And you could see the love on the faces of those in the crowd as they sought to encourage one who had been through the fire.
"Serenaded by Angels" is a must at any Kirk concert and he didn't disappoint us. "I'd Rather be Saved than Anything I know" was sung with such feeling and power. Followed by a Phil Cross song "When God Says No"....He says yes to so much more, really seemed to sum up the night.
Between songs Kirk shared his battle, the terrors and heartaches of the last 8-9 months, how many things were misrepresented by the secular media, his openness was touching and the pain you could feel as he spoke was heart-rending. He acknowledged his battle and then he shared with us the counseling session where he ‘saw' Jesus drop-kick the chains that had bound him for so long.
Kirk's pastor Tommy Patterson was scheduled to speak just before the break. He came to the stage and before preaching led everyone in “When God Dips His Love In My Heart” singing the verses and having Kirk, Anthony and the audience join him on the chorus. After telling us we needed a ‘little more soul' in our singing we did the second verse. This song led perfectly into the message of love and forgiveness, Pastor Patterson brought.
I've known Kirk for a lot of years. We have talked and joked and had some heated disagreements. But Saturday night I saw something I don't remember ever
seeing before when looking at Kirk, I saw a peace that wasn't there in the past. He is continuing with counseling and being discipled by his pastor. As they broke for intermission, Kirk was never able to leave the stage area as fans, friends and well-wishers surrounded him.
The second half began with Crystal River again for one song, or at least that's what the promoter thought but the crowd loved them and refused to allow them to leave with just one song. Hope's Call did a terrific job and then Anthony was back on the stage for more of his classic piano music. Everyone was on the stage as Kirk came back out. He looked at the lead and bass singer with Crystal River and asked if they knew in old SGM songs, while they looked a bit doubtful, they nodded yes.
Now Kirk's sense of humor was showing through as he got the bass singer and looked at his head from all angles before commenting, “I've got a comb on the van I can go get it for you.” I have to admit this mom had that thought the moment she saw him. Now he is a fantastic bass singer but that hair needed work! For those who have never seen Crystal River let me explain, imagine you have gotten out of bed with your hair all askew, then you stand on your head shaking it vigorously, you go to the upright position and you may have achieved his look.
Despite the hair, Kirk and Anthony had the boys join them for 'The Quartet' on "Glory Road" and brought the house down! The spontaneity that is the trademark of The Trio, was alive and well as The Quartet was formed and they sang and had fun on stage. An encore was necessary before the crowd was ready to allow that to end. Someone at the back requested "Beulah Land" and Kirk sang it after acknowledging it wasn't a song he knew real well. The program ended with Kirk singing "I Know Him" and being joined on the chorus by all the groups. "I know Him but best of all He knows me " certainly was the right song to end the concert on!
We had intended to head for home the next morning but before the night was over, Kirk had several of us changing our plans, including Anthony and family. When Kirk asked how many would be at his church the next day to hear him , a lot of folks raised their hands. Kirk looked at Anthony and said "Where are you tomorrow?". Anthony told him 'Chattanooga'. Kirk said 'In the morning?' and Anthony said 'no'. So again Kirk asked him 'Where are you going to be tomorrow? Want to come to my church?' Anthony agreed (after quickly checking with LuAnn! )
So Sunday morning found us at Marantha Church of the Harvest in Lenior City, TN. We arrived a few minutes after the service began. Kirk was at the keyboard and with the praise team was leading the church in worship.
After a few more songs, they took up the offering. Anthony was going to play for that. He got up and went to the keyboard. To say this was a far cry than what Anthony is used to playing is the understatement of the year. A tiny little keyboard on somewhat shaky legs, I wondered if it would still be standing when he finished.
For a second after he began, I really wondered what was going on, the look on Anthony's face and the first few notes just 'weren't right'. Then as he always does, he played the "Great is Thy Faithfulness"/"How Big is God"/"How Great Thou Art" medley with power and finesse.
After he sat down, Kirk explained that moment of surprise on Anthony's face. I'll try to quote him on this but I was laughing so hard, I may not have the quote down exactly, "Anthony has perfect pitch so when he got up here and played the first notes he knew I had left the transpose button on. He had to play the entire thing in a different key than he was used to playing for it to come out in the key he needed it in." Now Kirk is rolling laughing by this time. This was just another tribute to Anthony's talent.
Kirk shared some of the new songs he has written in the last month or so. "I'm Living A Life Of Love" has a powerful and heartfelt message. He and Rodney Griffen have written a catchy tune "Keep Puttin' One Foot In Front of the Other". And he and Phil Cross have teamed up for "I Still Remember" and "Love is Alive Forever".
He then did a 'mother song' the title came from a poem written by a lady who had just lost her child "I wish you a roomful of Angels" and it touched this mother's heart. Each of us who has known and loved a child , or any person for that matter, can relate to this message.
A few weeks previously a message had been preached at his church on Paul and Silas giving birth to "I Will Sing a Song of Praise to God" which has a wonderful message and would be a great addition to any P&W service.
An old favorite "No Other Word for Grace but Amazing" is as true today as the day it was written. "Lord, I Worship You" is another new one. For his pastor he had written "I'm Shoutin' The Victory" as that is his pastor's favorite phrase and Kirk has put it to a beautiful song.
Anthony slips to the keyboard as Kirk leaves it and Kirk sings "The Love of God". Kirk talks about his priorities changing and how he is open to whatever God has in store for him. He asks a friend, Connie Bolling from Atlanta to join him as he sings "Field of Grace". She does a tremendous job on Janet's part. He talks of this church being his 'field of grace'.
Finishing up the music portion of the service with "Where Sin Abounds, Grace Abounds Greater" Kirk turned it over to Pastor Patterson. His message on Restoration is something that everyone needs to hear.
I talked with Kirk about that after the service. He talked about his need to be there at the church for the discipleship and fellowship it provides. So he knows even if the 'circuit' welcomes him back, he must have the Wednesday nights there and he needs to limit
the time away or set aside some weeks that he doesn't do Sunday dates so that he can be in his church.
I recalled a statement I had made to someone last year looking at Kirk's schedule. I had been attempting to help Faye find a church for a booking. His schedule was so packed and he took so little time off. I said, "He doesn't even have time to think". In recent
months I've thought of that statement and realize his frantic push for dates was possibly his attempt to run from himself.
I have someone tell me a few weeks ago, 'it doesn't matter what he does or says I won't ever listen to him again'. All I can say to that is Gal.1:10 - "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted". Kirk is not denying or trying to explain away any wrong he has done. He is attempting to allow God to use him in whatever way God chooses.
We saw many things this weekend, but one thing that truly stood out to me, the value of true friendship. Many friends came to support Kirk along with many fans. One friend stood by his side and accompanied his singing. But the value of those friendships based on Christian love was clear for all to see.
Written by DeeAnn Bailey
Author: AGM
| Author's Website: http://absolutelygospel.com/
Written: 09/01/2004
| 
Category: Feature Articles
Comments: 115
RSS Feed
| (What's an RSS feed?)
|
Ads Sponsored by Southern Spin
Kirk,
Thanks for your wonderful report, Dee. I had the privilege of hearing Kirk the following w/e along with Anthony & Shane for the first time together as "The Trio". They did a fine job. Kirk also shared his testimony and was warmly received. I believe that this promoter was one of the few who did not cancel The Trio when the "news" broke back in Dec. It was good to see and hear Kirk; but I'll do without if God wants him elsewhere for his own good as well as the good of God's kingdom. I'm glad Kirk is will to be where-ever God wants him to be. Continuing to pray for him and his family and friends who have stood by him during this time.
I am happy about Mr. Talley' s comeback. I know that he strayed from what his foundation was, but come to think of it, haven' t we all. Sin is sin in God' s eyes, so those that say they wil never listen to his music again, should take another look at their own hearts.
Dee - Great article! As you know, we were there for that whole weekend as well. It truly was an inspirational weekend! We left Lenoir City after church on Sunday for Texas. We came home with a strong desire to help Kirk. Yesterday we booked him here in East Texas for a concert scheduled for Nov. 19th, 2004, in Hallsville, Texas. We are thrilled out of our minds! For those of you who haven't heard Kirk's testimony, you must make an effort to do so. You will be so blessed. May the Lord continue to bless Kirk in his ministry.
Thanks for the kind words about the reporting. In truth in many ways it was the easiest thing I've ever written. The weekend was so full of love, laughter, joy and tears that it flowed quickly as I wrote. In other ways it was one of the hardest things I have every written.
Thanks Dee for a wonderful, and heartfelt article. I support Kirk fully and am glad to see him return to his ministry. As difficult as this has been for him, I do hope that it will serve to open the eyes of those many Christians who do not understand.
Thank you Dee for your wonderful report!I have glory bumps reading this!Kirk has a very powerful testimony for everyone to hear and I am praying that it will open hearts.I have been praying for Kirk and I will continue to keep him in my prayers.May God continue to bless Kirk in his ministry.
Oh, how wonderful to know this great news about Kirk. I'm so glad you printed this article. THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you so much for this wonderful report. I am so thankful that Kirk is singing and doing the things that he loves and was called to do. We have prayed for Kirk all along and we stand with him in whatever the Lord leads him to do. I look forward to someday seeing him in person in a concert! God bless you Kirk, we love you.
Excellent article!
Praising God for this report!!!!! I am wishing that Kirk could come to California - all these exciting things are so far away - but we are rejoicing in them with you......the God of miracles is alive and well TODAY
Thank you so much for this fantastic article. Kirk is definitely my favorite and I am so pleased he is again doing concerts. I love his music, his honesty, his humor and most of all his love for our precious God. He is an excellent example for all of us in his walk and his desire to follow God's will.
Thanks Dee for sharing this wonderful article. I just Praise God for all He has done in Kirk's life. I will continue to pray for Kirk. I want to thank Anthony and LuAnn for standing by their friend. May God Bless You.
Thanks for the article. Well done. I remember Kirk on a cruise when he was still with The Hoppers, I sang many times with him during his Cathedral and Talley trio days. I hurt for him when he went through his difficulties however, I as well as everyone else has had their share of shortcomings with our lives. Condemnation is never an option as a christian and those who condemn him should evaluate their own situations. Every garden has some weeds. it must be cultivated, hoed out, the soil must be tilled, and then it can begin to bring forth good food. I for I am behind Kirk and am thankful that he was able to find himself in the grace of The Lord. Our business of singing and of gospel music lost a great dael and I am glad that we can replentish that loss by his return. Welcome back Kirk.
THE'RE IS ABSOLUTELY FORGIVENESS FOR SIN...BUT WHEN YOU SMEAR IT IN CHRISTIAN AMERICA'S FACE FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR GREED...IT LEAVES US ALL EMPTY OF FAITH IN THE GOSPEL MUSIC INDUSTRY. KIRK MADE HIS MISTAKE AND HE HAS TO LIVE WITH IT. WE HAVE ALL FORGIVEN HIM...BUT YOU FOLKS ARE OUT OF YOUR MINDS AND HAVE PLACED YOURSELVES IN DANGER OF THE JUDGEMENT, FOR OUR FAITH IN YOUR CHRISTIANITY IS GONE. MAY GOD OPEN YOUR EYES! YOU HAVE OPENLY ADVOCATED "NO RETRIBUTION FOR SIN". NOW WE WITH WISDOM KNOW THAT OUR INDUSTRY IS COMPROMISED AND AN ADVOCATE OF AMERICA'S MORAL DEMISE...FOR THE "ALMIGHTY DOLLAR"!
Dee, what an AWESOME story!!!! You made me feel as if I was sitting right there beside you the entire time. I have not gotten to see Kirk in Solo but I have Anthony and your report makes me want to see Kirk. Thank you for giving us the report that we all needed.
I AM PRAYING FOR KIRK AND WISH HIM THE BEST IN LIFE. I HOPE TO HEAR HIM SING AND THAT HE'LL BE BACK ON THE ROAD AGAIN. LET ALL THOSE THAT HAVE NOT A SIN BE THE FIRST TO THROW A STONE JUST LIKE IN THE BIBLE. WE HAVE ALL SINNED JUST SOME OF US HIDE OURS. GOD BLESS YOU AND WE LOVE YOU. YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS.
I am thankful that through something such as this, one can share what God is doing in his/her life to help others along their walk as well. It takes courage to do what was done. As has been said many time, we all fail God in many ways. Most hide our shame and sin, some get brought to light. I want to applaud those Christians out there who have shown the true "CHRIST LIKE ATTITUDE"! For all our righteousness is as filthy rags in Gods eyes. WE All sin, but there is Forgiveness! AMEN! Who said anything about Greed? Kirk will have to live with the error of his past mistakes much like we all have to live with the knowlege of our failures and past sins. I am sure we each wake up each day and remember, But thank God He cast them as far as the east is from the west never to be remembered again! We as Christians do not need to be placing our faith in "GOSPEL MUSIC INDUSTRY" or in "CHRISTIANITY" as a whole. Christ and HE alone is who we need to place our complete faith and trust in. I have said this many time, if we get our eyes off of ministers, singers, deacons ect. and focus our attention on Christ, We would be the Christians that we need to be! I am totally confused by Jim's last statement. I guess in essence we are to turn our backs on the sinner and walk away? Is that what Jesus did? Heck no, you found him ministering, loving and caring for the "the woman at the well, The woman caught in adultry, ect.." common people, common sinners. Get the point? We are all sinners, saved by HIS GRACE! Praise God, Christ mercy and grace far exceed we humans.I have spoken my peace. Prayin for you Kirk. Write some more music from the heart!
Dee, what a marvelous report! It made me think I was there instead of having to miss it. Kirk is one of my favorites & I have dearly missed him. I have been praying for him since all of this started & will continue to pray for his new ministry. I hope he comes out to my neck-o-the-woods before long, so I can hug his neck & tell him I'm behind him. I dearly love that boy!
God is good all the time & all the time God is good.
Elaine Harcourt
Hey Dee,I just went back and saw where Glenda Grant booked Kirk fo Hallsville Tx.Praise God,I will get to see him.We are only about an hour and half from there.
AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for this wonderful news. Glad to hear that Kirk is singing again. I'm sure the majority of folks wish him only the best. We're all on a journey, but sadly a few folks choose to take the 'cynic' route. (re: Jim's awkward comments, above)
Thanks, Dee for this great report. I truly admire Kirk for what he is doing. He is so talented and his songs have blessed so many. I appreciate friends like Anthony who has truly been a friend to Kirk and stood by him and encouraged him. Thanks, Anthony!
We were so happy to know that the concert went well. It is so good to know Kirk is doing good,we allways kept him in our prayers, and we hope for a return to gospel music if that is what god has in his plans. we suport him and we love him, Thank you so much for the information on the concert.
WOW! What an awesome report about Kirk Talley returning to minister. Kirk, you've been in our prayers from the start. We know that God will bring you through this fire and you will come out with a fresh new ministry to help those in need. God Bless You Kirk!
Kirk,
I am glad that Kirk is doing so well. I am also praying for him, that he keeps working through everything he has too.I also want to give Anthony a big thank-you too, for standing by Kirk
Thank God for the blessings of Kirk's return and for all the answered prayers on his behalf. Welcome back and keep on singing.
Thanks so much for the wonderful article on Kirk. I have been praying for him daily and I know God has delivered him. He is a wonderful singer and I am glad for Anthony and everyone who has stood by him in this trying time. Keep up the good work Kirk and writing songs.
I forgot, thanks for posting this article. It was very nice.
And again I say Thanks for the report you did about Kirk. I am not surprised because God is so good and takes care of things so much better than we can even think or do. Thank you,Lord.
Hey There, I just wanted to say I think that is so great Dee that you posted this on here! I'm so glad to hear about Kirk and how that went! I cant wait to see Kirk again in concert! I miss him so much!! Kirk my prayers and love is still with you!!!!
Welcome back,Kirk.What an awesome God we serve.Satan can not keep God's people down.My will continually be with you!Keep on keeping on,One foot at a time!It Is not the storm that shows who we are,but who we are on the other side of the storm!God Bless!
Welcome back to the road, Kirk. We all have been praying for you in my family. We love to hear you and see you sing. God is always there for us all. And that includes you too. In Chroist Love, Candance Lynn Howard
Dear Kirk,
so glad to see that kirk is back doing what he does so well.god bless you kirk
Such a good report and so good to be able to see how God has worked in Kirks life,he is and always has been one of my favorites.wonder how many of us would like to have our sins brought before the world? Sure God has a great Ministry in store for Kirk.Am still Praying for him as he struggles and am encouraged by his sincerity.Thank God he still has his sense of humor.
Grace,Grace God's Grace Grace that is Greater than all my sin!I Believe that says it all
The most important thing that we can do for Kirk is to pray daily for him. We should be a source of encouragement and not criticism to him as he seeks to walk in obedience to the Lord. Thank God for the pastors and other leaders who are standing by him and holding him accountable through this process. That's the way that the body of Christ should work.
Dee,
Kirk has always been my favorite. I'm so thankful that he has had good friends to stick beside him...You know, the bigger and better the Christian that does the Lords work the harder Satin has to work to make them fall. I feel sure Kirk renewed his faith and love for God and I just pray that God will keep a hedge around him to keep Satin and his demons away, because we all know they will be working overtime. I love you Kirk!!!
Thanks for the wonderful praise report, Dee. I'm very happy for Kirk. Paul said, all he had to offer God was filthy rags, and like someone said above, the rest of us are no different. I am thankful for pastors and churches like Tommy Patterson and Lenoir and for the committed Christians who love enough to restore those who are in fault. The only difference between Kirk and us is that the world knows about Kirk's sins. Christ is the only answer for our sins. He calls us to repentenance and offers us complete forgiveness. In him is our hope and strength. I will continue to pray for Kirk and his restoration team. And, I will continue to not only play but to be moved by the marvelous music he has provided us over the years. May God bless and keep Kirk and us all now and forever.
Kirk:
Kirk
It's always difficult in a situation like this to know how to react. The fundamental problem is that all we see of Kirk is the impression he leaves on stage, in his press releases, etcetera, etcetera, and the question always remains, how real is it? Is the story he gives us the real story? Realizing that the stage persona in the past was not the real Kirk does not help my dillema. Why should I believe that he is telling the truth now?
KIRK, hang in there!! I know how hard this is, first hand! We love you!
I would feel different if Kirk would have came out on his own, but he got caught...that is why he is sorry..I think great Kirk if all is well with you and the Lord but to sing again this soon NO...You have hurt the bussiness you say you Love so much and there is a price to pay for your sin...
I'm sorry, but the price for our sin was paid in full 2000 years ago. Sure, there are consequences when we sin, but anyone who would say that Kirk has not suffered consequences has obviously not seen or heard the hateful things that have been said about and to him. As Christians we were given the opportunity to help a fallen brother and instead many of us chose to kick him while he was down. I am thankful that he was able to press on and receive the help he needed and can now share his testimony with hurting people. I look forward to seeing him in person and celebrating what God has done in his life! Thanks, Dee, for writing such a great article!
Amen and Amen, Kristy! We spent the an August weekend following Kirk around for two concerts and a church service at his church. What a wonderful experience it was! We came home feeling that the Lord wanted us to do something to help Kirk. We have booked him in concert here in Texas in November. Kirk says he is no longer "in the business." He will go anywhere that anyone wants him to sing and to give his testimony. God has given him a testimony that needs to be shared, and that's what Kirk is going to do. If you haven't heard it, please make every effort to do so. You will be blessed.
My wife and I have been praying for Kirk since his email list informed us of what was going on. I am so glad to hear that he is singing again, and that most people seem to have real Christian attitudes about him. The devil is very active and I know he will use some "Christians" to try to discourage Kirk, but I also believe that Kirk will come shining through.
Kurts journey back is such a testimony that with our forgiving God ALL sin is covered by his blood. I'm sure others trapped in this life style are encouraged, along with their friends and family.
Thank you for your excellent article about Kirk. I was there at the concert and went to his church and everything that you reported was true. He was so sincere with his testmony and his singing was excellent. My daily prayers were answered, I wish that everyone could see that the Lord has won. May God continue to bless Kirk.
Thank you for your excellent article about Kirk, I was there for the concert and also at his church and everything that you reported was true. He was so sincere in his testimony and his singing could not have been better. My daily prayers were answered, I wish everryone could see that the Lord has won. May God continue to bless Kirk.
Jim,
Hi friend Kirky, I am still praying for you too. So is My Friend M. R. In AR too. We pray that We can come to atlanta, TX to see you in November too. God Bless You in All you Do for HIM your friend With Him, Karol
I must admit i am still a bit skeptical about Kirk Talley's quick turn about. I think if it was me, to somewhat convince others, i may do free concerts for awhile. After all, he was brazen enough to take the money and the fame with it for all those years, and now to simply confess and start taking it again? Just an opinion.
Cindy, every is entitled to their opinion and I respect that. I do have a couple of questions for you though.
First, from your statement it seems you believe that Kirk 'lived the lifestyle and tried to deceive people'. Why do you believe that? What if, he stuggled with the temptation just as many others have stuggled with other tempations and tried to live the way God directed in spite of the temptations? How do you 'know' that isn't what happened?
Also, Kirk has made it plain he will go anywhere God opens the door for him to go. Not once in talking with Kirk about churches did the $$ come into the conversation.
Now don't misunderstand, I know he has bills and he needs an income so I'm sure he is grateful for any offerings or payment he receives but if you think that is what he is about, you haven't talked to him or heard him speak.
And to 'simply confess and start taking it (money) again', if you think anything about the last year has been simple for Kirk, you really don't understand.
DeeAnn
TGIF Today God Is First
Reply To Cindy ABOVE! Do you have bills every month? Do you have to buy gas for your car? Food? Well, dear, So Does Kirky too! "Yes, Mam" Kirk should ask for say" Airfare(If far away enough to fly)A certain ammount-"Let's just say Oh, $500.00?" plus a love offering too, and overnight in Hotel if it is necessary for him(Kirk) to get to another Concert date, and meals too! We do get hungry if WE don't eat our meals? In no way, would our Church ask Kirky to come and Minister to US for anything LESS THAN THE ABOVE THINGS THAT ARE NEEDED, So He can PAY HIS BILLS TOO! Amen. Pray about this and you should understand what I've "shared" with you, Amen. Thanks for replying, but JUST see, Cindy that ALL have Bills to pay Expenses etc. PTL. Karol and M. R. In ARK.
What a great article! You put into words exactly what I was feeling. I was at the concert and it was such a pleasure to see Kirk on stage again. I have a lot of respect for his willingness to share his testimony during this difficult time. It is evident that God is working in his life. God bless you Kirk!
I have read the last THREE Comments and I agree with them, Cindy,(ONE Doubts?) above in Comments, Yes, I have seen Kirk in A Concert since HE was Forgiven, Delivered, and HE is being USED By Our God in a Great Way now. PTL. We should ALL lift Kirk Up in Prayers, ask God to give him renewed strength Everyday and OPEN Door's for him to Minister to ALL People, EVERYWHERE! Yes, He has bills to PAY too! He should get about What Comments the Karol Kline mentioned in her Comments too! Sounds good to me. God bless you Kirk, keep on keeping on for God..Margaret Renee Golmes
Thank you to all of yall who posted wonderful things about Kirk. He is a friend of mine and I love him dearly. People, he has repented and asked for forgivness and he has also asked for prayer. Why not give it to him???? Kirk has blessed many of you throughout the years with such music as: He Is Here, Serananded By Angels, Triupmphantly The Church Will Rise....... need I go on, cause I WILL!!! To those of you who have had negative comments about Kirk, go to one of his concerts and see him in action for yourselves, and as for Cindy, I bet you know NOTHING about how a concert is run. Please become learn about the processes and then return. I don't want people to think that I am being hateful but when people attack friends of mine I have to say something. I have heald it in long enough now and it is time for the inuindos, bickering, and speculations to stop! We are Chirstians. Christ himself said to pray for one another and to forgive those who ask for forgiveness and that hatred is just like murder so tell me know, who is really in the wrong as of today?
As usual..the above people took most of what i said and put it in their own words. I said I was a little skeptical. That doesnt mean you have to be skeptical. I didnt say God hadnt forgiven him. I didnt say he should go broke and live in a shelter some place and I didnt say that he would not get any prayers from me. but I think if the truth were known, you would find out that Kirk is very well off financially from the years he spent basically just living a lie. If he feels like he is doing what he should be doing now, then thats his decision. I simply meant it would be a nice gesture on his part to put the money aside. It would be interesting to know if he is charging though. But as mentioned above , I havnt heard his story...but i could show you a letter he wrote..but in fairness, that was writtn before he asked forgiveness. So, if God is in it Kirk, praise the Lord. if he isnt..well...
After reading the last few comments, I think I may understand what Cindy is saying. And I think she knows how a concert is run as well as some other things. But it sounds like she, as well as others, is hurt by what she feels to be taken advantage of for a lot of years. I also understand, to a point, why she feels Kirk should do some expense only or free concerts. No one wants to see Kirk suffer more than he already has, including Cindy, this I beleive. But it isnt in our hands at all, just like everything else. God will take care of it in His time and His manner. I guess thats all. God bless you all.
Cindy and to the other Readers,
Hi Everyone that has commented to me about my comments! I am a Friend of Kirk's too, have LOVED him for ever, since 1995, when I first met him at NQC that year, If anyone think's My comments were against Kirk in ANY WAY, THEN YOU'RE ALL wrong, very wrong! I received 4 OR 5- comments at my email and ALL seemed to think that I am not a friend or a FAN of Kirk, OR as I've called him this name"KUKY", and Kirky too! Went to Talley Family Reunion, had pictures made with him, his Family too, So YES, I really do "LUV" him, but he doesn't take me serious when I see him and tell hin this,OK? He was so nice to me when my son went to Heaven in 1995, He gave me The "Serenaded" cassette, talked with me for a long time at his Booth too! So, someone Mis-understood my comment's in other Comment very much on Kirky,Amen. MRG
Dee,
I remember back when I found out what happened with Kirk. To say I was disappointed was an understatement. I've been praying for him ever since, like I never had before. Even now, there are those who love Kirk and his music who I haven't told for fear of how they might react. I can certainly understand the mindset of the skeptics, the cynics, and the critics; and where they come from.
.
Kirk, "God bless and restore you WHOLLY" Saten's job is to DESTROY any who are influential and can be a blessing to others. It's ONLY by HIS
There have been so many comments of every kind in response to this article. There is one thing that answers it all....Jesus Redemptive work on the cross. That covered it all...period! Here is how I said it awhile back.
I have known the Talley family for sometime.
Thank-you for this encouraging article. Kirk has a special place in our hearts and the terrific news of his restoration is so exciting. All of us have experienced failure in some area of our Christian walk but many never do what it takes to make restitution. Perhaps some simply don't trust the cleansing power of The Cross.
ahhh gee Kirk is BACK!!!i have read all the comments and have thought about some,GOD is an awesome GOD!!!! Kirk i am sure you have heard many stories about what a blessing you have been and that you are but i want to think you for being a light to my daughter you came to somerset and sang one night after the convention opened i took my youngest daughter to hear you as i had never heard you before either and boy did you ever sang that night and what a blessing you was, my daughter was very young at that time and the world could have took her in but she looked at me some days later and said i want to be just like Kirk Tally,well to see the look on my face was one of kinda shock and i said well dear i dont think that can happen you are a little lady and he is a man so she looks back at me and says no mom i want to be just like him and serve that GOD he serves and i will so i said oh ok he does serve a big MAN so i hope you will do that and yes she does.......but then to read what went on i said a few years to self that Kirk was the way he WAS but i never said it to her nor did i ever put him down i kept telling the devil get behind me and then when it did come out as truth i told my daughter and all she said was " well he will be back and our GOD is a forgiving GOD and we continued to listen to his music and hear it on the radio...so no matter what reason Kirk is out there for God has forgave him and why cant others? i am sure their are alot out there that dont need to throw rocks at that glass house....my dad always told me to clean my own door step before i tryed to clean someone else's.....so through the years i have learned what that meant...so Kirk stay steadfast with God and he will stay steadfast with you....dont let the world bring you back down...keep up keeping up with God and make him your focus and you will have a beautiful life... and THANKS for being that one little inflaunce in my daughter's life and a time in mine that could have went wrong with her....and by the way Kirk you have saw her many times at your singings and one time you was busy and didnt give her a hug or talk to her and her lil heart was broke but i told her you was busy and had so many around you that you just didnt have the time for all....cant say she accepted it real good but she went on...so in the end , a person never knows how they reflect back on others without even knowing it and what a hug sometimes can do to even a kid....we used to kid her and tell her Kirk was her first love and she still agrees to this and she is now 18 but hey so what to me i had rather it been someone that served a forgiving GOD than a drug , drink or maybe worse...she still looks to see where he is going to be so she can go see him..so THANKS for what you did Kirk without knowing it.....and may God keep you in his arms and walk with you and you do what GOD wants you to do NOT what Kirk wants....love ya Kirk........always in mine prayers....Kay
Time will tell.
Dean, you're right. At this moment that's all we can say. Kirk may prove to have conquered his past . . . or he may stumble again. What Kirk needs is prayer, whether you believe he has changed or not.
Dean,
What a marvelous article, Kirk has always been my favorite, I am delighted he is following the will the Lord. He will only be better for doing so.
thank you so much for this heartwarming article.
Thanks Dee for the article written on Kirk Talley. I have been praying for him everyday since everthing came out about him. We must have a forgiving heart, because that is what God wants us to have. I also had a son that was having problems the same as Kirk. The Lord has delivered him and he is now happily married. God still answers prayer. Keep on singing Kirk. You have a God given voice.
Thank you for the great report for all of us who are unable to go to his concerts because there are no concerts in the north country. We love you Kirk and will continue to pray for you. Can't wait to hear you in person some day.
This is mainly for Cindy and any others who might agree with her thinking:
I have been listening to Kirk Talley since he was in the Cathedrals...and I was just a little girl.
Welcome back Kirk. It's about time. You are loved and appreciated. Enough said . . . Michael Sykes
To me, it doesn't matter if he "fell" or not. God uses those who are willing to serve Him, imperfections and all. We as humans aren't perfect and God understands that. This is why He is a loving and forgiving God. God used Kirk to bless people the whole time Kirk was struggling with his sexuality. Why would God stop now just because people know about it? To me, Kirk's message is just as powerful now as it ever was. He is in my prayers and I know God will continue to help him.
I would like to respond to Helen's comments. Yes, I agree 100% with what you shared. None of us are perfect. We have all at one time stumbled and failed in our walk with Christ. God's love is pure and without blame to us. If we are to be like Christ, we too must show the same love toward our fellow man. When a man turns from his wicked ways, God tells us then will he heal our land and bless us. Kirk, if you ever do have the chance to read this, please know that you are in our prayers. Don't look back, but focus your life upon Jesus Christ our true and faitful redeemer. He alone can change us and make us into a beautiful vessel of honor for him. God Bless You!
Kirk,
I agree with Marci. I would like to be more confident, but how?
In response to Phil's comment saying he was torn as to whether to support Kirk, because he couldn't be sure. I would suggest that you pray sincerely about it and God will reveal to you what you should do. There are ministries that I have supported in the past, and then was disappointed by them, but as long as I gave as unto God, I will still be blessed and the one who mis-uses the support will be responsible. This being said, though, I sincerely believe that Kirk has had a transformation and if I ever have the opportunity to go to one his concerts I'll be proud to support him.
I am trying to understand the thinking of the skeptics about Kirk's sincerity and his healing. I think that I can see where you are coming from BUT - my advise to you is to go and see him in a concert and listen to his testimony. He is a very sincere and humble man - I'm sure you will come away a believer!!!
Kirk was born gay. It is doubtful he will ever be able to change his orientation. (even if he wants to) But God is not interested in Kirk's orientation anyway. All he wants Kirk to do is minister to those who are in need of help. Kirk, please keep spreading his word of acceptance.
Hi, Jim P. I saw Kirk in July at Pigeon Forge,TN and personally I could see a remarkable difference in him, his counteaunce too, Kirk sang under so much anointing that night it gave me Holy Spirit 'chill' bumps too. you should have been there too. Try it, I challange you or anyone else with doubts about Kirk's deliverance to go and hear him, talk to him too as I did in July this year. Thank God for delivering him completely!!! Karol and Marie
"Kirk was born gay." - Jim P
I feel the same as Marci, that everyone is jumping to defend this person, but if it was someone in their lives it would not be defended so fast. that is so true.
if GOD has forgiven him then we as christian must forgive him and he is a great worker for GOD and he has suffered alot over this. It is not for us to judge but that is GOD'S . Please come back and start singing again because you have such a talent to write wonderful songs and to let the public know how things are going for you. I pray that GOD is number one in your life and you do what GOD ask of you,no matter what people say!!! GOD BLESS YOU IN 2005
I'm with Dee Ann, AND Gal:1:10, When God forgives ANY of Us He doesn't take it back, It's forgiven forever, Amen. I've seen Kirk since he began giving his testimony, singing and God has put a very powerful anointing on him like never before in his Ministry too, God bless you and your Ministry with Him, We are praying for you, supporting you in all that you do for Him. Your friend with Him, AR Lady.
I find it so sad that Christians have to debate this. Have you ever fallen? Have you ever sinned? Have you asked for forgiveness? Has God extended you His grace? As a born-again Christian, I am thankful that His Grace exceeds all my downfalls, and that when I fall, if I ask Him, He forgives me. Why do we make this situation so big? Have you not all sinned? Do we not all know gossips, backstabbers, people who let a little "bad word" slip here and there, people who are divorced and remarried? I'm not condemning ANY of them..but they're forgiven if they ask. And so is Kirk. Does some sin require more grace? Do some sins need more forgiveness than others? That's not what my Bible says. All have sinned. Where sin did abound, Grace did much more abound. And the state of Kirk's heart and his true intentions is between He and God. We are not to judge, lest we be judged. Had I been in the town circle that day, when the harlot was broght forth to be stoned...and had Jesus shown up, drawn in the sand and said "He who is without sin may cast the first stone"..I would have had to turn and walk away. I think most of us would. I, as a born again Christian, need to be daily guarding my own heart, and continually striving to grow closer to The Lord through prayer and bible reading. I don't have time, nor should I make time, to be deciding what others need to do be better christians. I can pray for others, I can lovingly help direct them if the opportunity arises, but I shouldn't make them look bad to make myself look more spiritual. I'm so thankful for grace, for mercy and for forgiveness that's given over and over. I don't understand it totally, but I'm continually amazed and overwhelmed by it. God is so, so, so, so, so, so good.
So many Christians quote the Bible and say that being gay is a sin. All you hear from churches is how the Gays are ruining the country and corruptimg our kids. Don't allow them in Boy Scouts, or to be teachers, or to be married.
Rose, the Bible teaches that anyone can repent of sin and be forgiven. If someone does that and we forgive that isn't about picking which 'sinners' we will accept, it is about understanding we all sin, we all can fail but thankful God can and does forgive and as Christians we are to do the same.
I am going to preface my comments with a few things. One though I have always been impressed with Kurt's talent I have never been much of a fan because of two things. A. I've always had a funny negative "feeling" about hime. B. Because his demeaner in person never impressed me when he was with the Cathedrals. (Which I have since found out was more fear and shyness then snobbery-my mistake). I feel that homosexuality is a sin and very wrong, even an abomination.
In Kirks testimony on his website he says "I still feel the attraction, the struggle daily." Were not talking about the struggle to quit smoking. Were talking about an abomination. I am a woman. If I look at a man in lust, then that is a sin, but it is a "natural" sin. God made me to be that way. God did not make me to look at a woman in lust. He did not make anybody else that way either. It is natural for opposite sexes to attract. Sodomy is an abomination to God. It is evil. It is demonic. Completly against God.
I didn't know that God had a rating system of sins. I thought they were all alike in His eyes. I also didn't realize that the struggle not to sin was a sin in and of itself. We all have struggles, some open struggles, some not so open, some more "acceptable" in people's eyes, some not quite so acceptable. In Proverbs 6:16-19, God gives a list of sins that He considers to be an abomination. A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false withness and one who sows discord among brethren. Nowhere in that text is homosexuality mentioned. If my pastor stood up and said he was struggling with same-gender attraction (NOT acting on it), I would pray for him, but I wouldn't feel he was less qualified to lead. It's no different than a pastor who deals with the sin of gluttony, lying, lust towards the opposite gender, drinking, smoking, gambling, etc. I understand that my pastor is a human as I am. Why should the fact that he has struggles, as we ALL do, keep him from ministering to others? As I said when I started this reply, I don't believe that God ranks sins as "natural sins" and "unnatural sins."
