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EXO tour Madagascar, Mauritius and Reunion Island [ 13 July - 03 August 2003 ]
Matt. 9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
On 13th July 2003 (the day after Esther's 3rd birthday) Steve departed for a tour with the band EXO. This tour covered three Islands, Madagascar, Mauritius and Reunion. EXO is a leading French band, though the band has is very internationally flavoured. The members come from Spain, United Kingdom, Switzerland, America, Belgium and of course, France. The band is led by Chris and Laura Christensen, and Thierry Ostrini.
Steve has been the Musical Director for EXO for about seven years now, having toured many French nations such as Conga, Brazzaville, France, Belgium, Guadeloupe, Martinique, etc.
EXO arrived in Madagascar on the 14th July and had a few days to acclimatize before the first concert.
"The first thing you notice is the immediate poverty of the country, but yet you also see such incredible hope in the eyes of the people."
Just a stone's throw away from the poverty-stricken streets was the hotel where the band was staying.
"Though we appreciated the quality of the accommodation, it was so vivid the lack of financial equality we always face as we travel to various nations."
The band played their first concert on the 16th July in a 7000 seater hall (the largest hall in the country). The tickets were equivalent to a third of the average earnings for an individual. Though this may be an estimation at best, it was a huge 'wake-up call' for the band as to how the general finances need to be handled more carefully in order to self-finance concerts in the various poorer countries.
As EXO played to the thousands, a scripture came to Steve's mind. "Silver & gold we do not have, but such as I have give I thee". It was such a warm and spiritually charged atmosphere seeing so many hands in the air worshipping Jesus - the one who loves the people of Madagascar very much! You are blessed nation!
EXO played two concerts with more people attending the second night. Though it was a financial stretch for the organizers, Jojo and Dede, we bless them in the name of the Lord.
Just before leaving, one of the other concert committee members, who in fact is head of the very first School of Commerce in Madagascar, asked Steve if he knew anyone who could help their country with recording albums. Immediately Steve promised to do whatever he could to advise them, as well as offering his time free of charge. What a wonderful way to return one's gratitude for the great hospitality, probably way beyond their financial capability.
"It is always my heart's desire to pour out all that God has blessed us with, in terms of our musical capabilities and heart to serve the nations, into countries like Madagascar. I am thankful to EXO for the opportunity to be a part of the team. May God bless Madagascar."
"God WILL reward your diligence and commitment to His Kingdom. We love you Madagascar "
And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right
2Th. 3:13
EXO tour Madagascar, Mauritius and Reunion Island [ 13 July - 03 August 2003 ]
'The first thing you notice is the immediate poverty of the country, but yet you also see such incredible hope in the eyes of the people'
Pics: Top left: EXO band with the hospitality group Far right: The anticipating crowd Bottom left: Steve with the band