This has been one of the hardest issues to get together for a number of reasons. It is our most ambitious issue to date, and by that I mean it is the largest. Since the last issue my wife and I have had a rocky path to travel… I lost my job, which is as scary as it gets. We prayed, stressed, freaked out, prayed some more and then started our own thing with a business partner who offered us a great opportunity. Even great opportunities are stressful though, and it has been a crazy journey over the last 4 months. Seems like it is starting to even out now.
One thing that I would like to share because it has been on my heart and my mind a good bit the last few months… there is a truth that I am learning in a whole new way and it is, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness. Most gladly therefore, I will rather boast about my weakness, that the power of Christ may dwell in me” (2 Corinthians 12:9). I have seen the grace of God through some difficult circumstances the last few months, and while I am a poor example of what is ‘pure and holy’ on most days, I am humbled by the grace and love of my God… that He still loves and takes care of me (and my family) like He does, even in spite of myself. It is a truth worth sharing…
I am so pleased to bring this issue out. It has many diverse bands that are all amazing in their varied genres. The cover story with Bill Mallonee has been a long time coming. Bill is one of my favorite artists, definitely in the top 5 of all time favorites for me. I feel fortunate to call Bill a friend, and I am so pleased that we at Down The Line could promote him in the little way that we have available. Check out his music by following the links found in the article, and support his art! He has over 30 albums available for download through his website, and almost each one is only $7.99! This is truly independent, grass roots and word of mouth. www.billmallonee.net (other links found in the article)
(photo below courtesy of Mike Kanski)
