Donald Trump Invites 2 of Gospel Music’s Rising Stars to Coming Inauguration

Written by Vince Porter | @vopga

In just one day, depending on when you are reading this it may have already happened, Donald Trump will be inaugurated as the 45^th President of the United States of America.  In case you’ve been living under a rock, allow me to bring you up to speed.  A lot of people aren’t happy about this; just Google #TrumpsComingChallenge.  In the current era of social media, it seems as though you’re either for the next president or you’re against him.  There has been much debate about individuals participating in inauguration activities and this week this discussion made its way into gospel music.

Two of Gospel Music’s youngest, rising stars were invited to the Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C. to perform.  I’m talking about none other than Jonathan McReynolds and Travis Greene.  While both were invited, both will not be attending.  In a statement, McReynolds said that he “respectfully declined” because “I simply don’t believe this opportunity is for ME.”  Greene on the other hand accepted the invitation and in a video statement said with much time in prayer and counsel with spiritual advisors he felt compelled to attend. 

Listen… Whatever your political views and whether you are pro or anti Trump, one thing that should not be up for debate within the body of Christ is how much the PEOTUS needs to be surrounded by Jesus loving people right now.  As believers, we won’t always be called to go to comfortable places nor work with those we agree with.  So before you tweet or post about either artist or the decision they made, pray.  Pray for the artists.  Pray for Donald Trump.  Pray for America.  Pray.

Travis Greene and Jonathan McReynolds both released statements explaining their reponse to Donald Trump.  Keep reading below to hear both perspectives:

Travis Greene Speaks About Accepting Trump’s Invitation
(Hover over the instagram image below to watch Greene’s full video reply)

Family, I have something very special to share – and I wanted you to hear directly from me. We are redefining culture. Taking the light and love of Jesus, where it belongs.

A video posted by Travis Greene (@travisgreenetv) on Jan 15, 2017 at 6:15pm PST

Jonathan McReynolds Speaks About Declining Trump’s Invitation

“I declined because I simply don’t believe this opportunity was for ME.  (I wouldn’t have been able to sing any “Life Music” on my terms either.)  God’s people absolutely need to be there though, whether they are praying, speaking, or singing.  I pray the Body of Christ NEVER gets comfortable publicly rebuking ITSELF, it’s own people, when they take meetings, take opportunities, to affect and touch leaders, especially ones we don’t agree with.”

Read McReynold’s full statement below: