For King & Country Concert Recap

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Posted by: Jenna Perry | Monday, September 30th, 2024 (12:00am)

Wow. We knew For King and Country was going to be a fun concert, but I don’t think any of us were prepared for just how awesome it turned out to be! Joel and Luke Smallbone (the duo known as For King and Country) truly know how to captivate an audience. In fact, we knew we were in store for something special from the moment we first entered the arena. 

Before the concert began, we could already see the main stage covered by a giant curtain billowing in anticipation of what lay behind it. A long catwalk bordered by various lights and strobes extended into the audience, giving the band plenty of room to move, run, and dance. This long stretch of space provided a greater view of the performers no matter where someone was sitting in the arena. Weekend host Susan Krews and I were delighted to experience what it’s like to be in front of thousands when we had the opportunity to stand on that very stage and “warm up” the crowd by sharing a little of what WCSG is about! 

However, the “wow factor” really took hold when the first song began and the giant curtain dropped with the music’s crescendo, revealing individual square stages descending from the ceiling. Each platform held drum sets, band members, and of course, Joel and Luke themselves. Even when these smaller stages were not being used, they continued to lower, raise, and tilt; embedded with an array of lights that coordinated with the music, resulting in an impressive creative backdrop.  

Just before intermission, Luke took a moment to talk about their movie, “Unsung Hero,” sharing details about their childhood, their family’s struggles, and the many blessings they’ve experienced through God. He explained that their family’s story of losing all that they had and the hardship that followed was a perfect segue to their appeal for the audience to consider sponsoring a child through Compassion International, an organization For King and Country pours into. It was a beautiful reminder of the opportunity we can each take to support children and families in other countries who are struggling to meet basic needs. 

After intermission, the music continued using a variety of instruments. I particularly enjoyed the violin and cello, a combination that blended beautifully with the other instruments and vocals. The assortment of drum sets was a treat too! Joel and Luke gave an unforgettable performance, and the night will be a memory I won’t soon forget. 

I feel incredibly blessed that WCSG was able to bring For King and Country to Grand Rapids—they truly know how to put on a phenomenal show. It was also a privilege to meet so many members of the WCSG listening family. We love getting out into the community and hearing what God is doing in your life. From the incredible music, the unique stage design, and the opportunity to connect with you, the concert was a beautiful evening filled with worship and a celebration of our amazing God! 

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