Yet another area in which The Martins are heard as a unison "voice" is in their concept of ministry and sense of calling in the world. Judy muses, "The Martins is very much a ministry, but the word 'ministry' by itself can sound a little cold or even cliched. We do want to see people reached and their lives changed by the Lord, but that should be a passionate experience. We want folks to know it's us they hear singing, but it's Christ they feel touching them and changing them. There's nothing else like it in the world." During a concert, this philosophy of reaching people for Christ is evident in all portions of the program. We hear it in the emotion of the soaring melodies so expertly delivered. We listen as it's verbalized in the carefully crafted lyrics. We see it in the expressions of joy on their faces as they sing about their Savior. And we witness it first hand in the way they reach out to the people in the audience in a humble, caring and honest way, remaining accessible to their fans after a concert in order to shake their hands, listen to a need, or to pray with them.

Lastly, the "voice" of commitment to the importance of family resounds solidly from the trio. Each is unapologetic in their view that family should come first and should be the foundation on which our society is built. Their concerts are geared to minister to family members of all ages, and the Martins practice what they preach by carrying their families with them on tour whenever possible. At other times a break is coordinated into the group's busy schedule to allow time with spouses and children at home. Jonathan honestly comments, "It can be hard and it takes effort. It doesn't just happen. Every day you've got to get up and talk to God, and then make a conscious decision - a step of faith -

that with God's guidance and grace, everything is going to be all right." As we sat talking, he brought out an automated photo album bearing a picture of his children along with a recording of their voices telling him "goodnight." He smiled at the sound of their voices and then confessed, "This helps me get through the long hours on the road." The genuineness in his voice was unmistakable.

Joyce concludes, "Over the years God has kept confirming: 'You're on the right track. Keep walking. Keep walking.' So we have. We've felt His hand on us every step of the way, and it's been the time of our lives." To that confirmation I add "Keep singing! Keep singing! Our world desperately needs your voice."

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Jana Jones Uttz is a freelance writer, Covington Tennessee.