The Trinity Daily Devotion

February 12, 2012

2012-02-13T03:56:10Z

Rev. Sandra Florentino-Hutchins
Job 37:6

He orders the snow, 'Blanket the earth!' and the rain, 'Soak the whole countryside!'

WINTER SNOWSTORM

Nighttime predominates the winter season, and in some regions it has the highest rate of precipitation as well as prolonged dampness because of permanent snow cover or high precipitation rates coupled with low temperatures, and precluding evaporation. Blizzards often develop and cause many transportation delays. The winter season also hinders travel, sometimes resulting in little or no activity, but it can also be seen as a time of rest. Take a look at Job he is experiencing a winter in his life, and being told that all of his troubles have been orchestrated by God for a divine purpose. So in effect the winter’s of our lives is to demonstrate that God’s power cannot be understood in human terms, and is designed to make us humble. In this scripture we are told God orders the snow as a sign of purity and cleanness. Furthermore, it is God’s desire that we prevail, and be firm and strong when the season of winter comes upon us.

Here it comes....the snow! Are we prepared? Do we have our sweater, our hat, our gloves, our heavy coats, our boots? Don’t’ forget we need to stock the fridge? Remember we need a shovel, salt and snow-blower because we may be heading for a blizzard. I guess we’re ready, well maybe we’re ready. Let’s see! Winter comes to remind us of Godly strength and purpose. Winter is a time to rest and consider that we are snowed in by our troubles because we refuse to admit our own failures and shortcomings in the light of God’s grace. Now, it is a time for us to rest in the will of God. We must cloth ourselves with faith against the knee deep challenges that we face. We must stock up on hope that God’s promises are true. We need to grab hold of the shovel of love, then melt-down and blow away anything that stands in the way of obedience to God’s will. Yes, we are ready for winter because we have submitted to God’s purpose and plan.

Prayer

Lord our Creator, I am your servant here to do your will
Let it snow, blanket me and help me be still
Lord you bring my failings to light to show me the way
Your awesome power and might demonstrated every day
I need the winter as a reminder so I can see
Just how little in return you get from me.

Thought for the day

Always be ready for God's purpose!

February 7, 2012

2012-02-13T03:46:01Z

Minister Dr. Shirley G. Eloby Fleming
Mark 4: 35-41 (Good News Translation)

³⁵ On the evening of that same day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go across to the other side of the lake”. ³⁶ So they left the crowd; the disciples got into the boat in which Jesus was already sitting, and they took him with them. Other boats were there too. ³⁷ Suddenly a strong wind blew up, and the waves began to spill over into the boat, so that it was about to fill with water. ³⁸ Jesus was in the back of the boat, sleeping with his head on a pillow. The disciples woke him up and said, “Teacher, don't you care that we are about to die? ³⁹ Jesus stood up and commanded the wind, “Be quiet! And he said to the waves, be still! The wind died down, and there was a great calm.⁴⁰ Then Jesus said to his disciples, why are you frightened? Do you still have no faith? ⁴¹ But they were terribly afraid and began to say to one another, who is this man? Even the wind and the waves obey him!

Be Still!!

Beloved, most of us are familiar with this the sacred text. Jesus, our Rabbi, our teacher, has filled this story with numerous life lessons for his first and 21st century disciples. The lessons include wisdom regarding:

The certainty of storms in our life (even when we are traveling with Jesus) How to manage the storms of life
The tranquility or peace of faith
The need to rest and restoration in the storms of life, and
The faith development power of storms

At this point in my discipleship, I’m thanking and praising Jesus for the last three lessons.

Those who are involved and committed to the ministry of Jesus Christ in the 21st century can sometimes become overwhelmed by the demands of ministry and the desire to please God. When we decide to follow Jesus as true disciples, we will be confronted by personal (doubt, fear, faith) and societal (injustices of racism, classism and sexism) storms. (Side bar, if you are not confronting storms, you may need to reintroduce yourself to Jesus and the call of disciples through prayer and deeper bible study.) This scripture reminds us that sometimes we need to follow Jesus’ example and rest in the in the midst of the storms. You may be asking yourself how. This is the wisdom that the Spirit and time have shown me.

Remember, you/we are disciples and Jesus the one who is our model for ministry, rested in the midst of the storms of the first century. Jesus, the one who participated in the creation of humanity knows that our minds, bodies and spirits need rest. Remember, Jesus can control the wind and waves of our storms. Remember, God has other disciples to do his Will. Remember that Jesus is in the storm with us, and that he promised to never leave us alone. Remember, Jesus is inviting us to “go to the other side of the lake.” We can believe that Jesus can in fact get us to the other side. Even though the facts may make it seem impossible, God’s word represents the truth. We will get to the other side. Remember that storms provide us with an opportunity to nourish our faith. Our faith can be nourished by remembering our history with God. Lastly, if we continue reading this Mark story, we will learn that after Jesus rested and was restored He was able to do a great work. He healed a man who was possessed by a legion of demons.

Prayer

Lord, teach me to survive and grow during the storms of ministry and discipleship. Let me always remember the necessity and certainty of storms. Let me always remember that storms are an opportunity and reminder of the necessity of rest, restoration, faith and humility in ministry and discipleship. Let me always remember that resting in the storm allows me to witness the power of God over the many storms in our lives.

Thought for the day

Sometimes we need to be still and let the God teach and develop us as we travel through the storms of life!

February 6, 2012

2012-02-13T03:37:08Z

Dorian Robinson, MIT
Mt. 22:36, NIV

Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?

The Ten or the Two?

My brother and sisters did you know the Ten Commandments are a set of biblical principles instructions that are not just a list of “Do not do” that come from God, but are God’s guide to the good life, the abundant life, a life full of blessings for you and me. A friend recently asked me about the Ten Commandments sadly, I was only able to name three or four. I was embarrassed, so I felt that I better do a personal review of the Ten Commandments. I also thought about how many other Christians believers like me who may not remember all the Ten Commandments. It is for this reason I wrote this devotion.

Brothers and sisters there's much more to these commandments than meets the eye. They're not just God's way of preventing us from having a fun time. The commandments are designed to protect us, our families and our communities. In other words, if we trust and obey the Ten Commandments of God he will protect us, guide us by transforming the way we think, what we do, and how we live, so we can have a happy life. It was at this point I came upon a scripture from Matthew 22: 36 - 40 in which a Pharisees asked Jesus “Teacher, which is the greatest Commandment in the Law? (Mt. 37) Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with your entire mind. (Mt. 38) This is the first and the greatest commandment. (Mt.39) and the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. (Mt. 40) All the law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Here I was trying to find a way to memorize the “Ten” which I will continue to work on, but in the meantime Jesus gave me a way to quickly remember the “Two” in Matthew. For me this is a win- win situation just like when a person, a new believer gives their life to Christ they are now a new creature on the winning team of God! For us to stay on the winning team we must have the instructions, God’s Commandments whether it be the Ten or the Two! We all should know both!

Prayer

Everlasting and Eternal God, help us to understand, except and obey your Holy word. Eternal God there is life, liberty and love in your word. Help us Lord to not only learn your commandments but live them every day! Amen

Thought for the day

Without instruction from Jesus we are all lost in this world. Only the creator can help us find our way. When was the last time you looked at the Ten Commandments or the Two Greater ones as Jesus described?

February 1, 2012

2012-02-06T02:00:56Z

Rochelle Cross, MIT
2 Corinthians 4:5

Public Servant!

Via a restaurant experience, God gave me revelation on the duties of a public servant. Out to dinner with my family, I verbalized my dissatisfaction with the service we received. When the server approached the table, failing to acknowledge the lateness of my food, I expressed my dissatisfaction. I pulled her to the side and explained how she was not performing to my standards.

After we left the restaurant, I verbalized to my son, plans I had to rectify a family dilemma. I was not satisfied with a situation. My sons reply, “at times you can be self absorbed.” His comment caused me to reflect on his comment, culminated with the restaurant experience.

The next morning, with reluctance I lay before the Lord; asking “am I self absorbed.” The Lord, my gentle teacher caused me to remember the comments of an acquaintance. My acquaintance is an army personal who has mastered the art of staying in uniform. When faced with public disrespect, he remembers that he represents the U.S. Army. When he is in uniform, he cannot display “conduct unbecoming an officer.” When we represent the kingdom, we must be mindful of the uniform at all times. God was revealing to me that I was motivated by pride and neglecting to put kingdom business first. Paul proclaims “For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:5-6)

We were in darkness and God said “let there be light” and Jesus Christ emerged on the scene. Jesus was equipped with the light of knowledge and because of kindness and mercy, sent us the gift of the Holy Spirit. Paul reminds us that because of God’s mercy, we ought to make his proclamation our main objective. For a slave seeks to please his master so we ought to seek to please our master, God of all creation.

Focusing on myself and taking my attention from the master, I may have missed an opportunity to let my light shine with the knowledge of Jesus Christ. The server may have been an opportunity to witness. May we never forget our purpose, the glorification of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Lord, keep me ever so mindful of your loving and kind presence.

Thought for the day

Lord may I never forget to represent!

January 31, 2012

2012-02-01T03:31:16Z

Deacon Bill Singleton
Psalm 41: 1-3

Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble.

The Foes of the Righteous

The Lord will protect him and preserve his life; he will bless him in the land and not surrender him to the desires of his foes. The Lord will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness. Many are the foes of the righteous, but blessed is he who is called by God’s name. We are called by God’s name but more importantly we have been chosen by God to be his children. As God’s people, we may be sick but not die, we may be down but not out, we may be going through but not alone, because God is always there to deliver us from anything that we go through. God said in his word in Hebrews 13:5b “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” We, the people of God can always stand on His promises.

Prayer

Loving and kind God in whose name we are called, we thank you for always being there with us. We thank you for your promise to never leave us alone. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Thought for the day

You never stand alone in all that you go through. God is always there with you.

January 29, 2012

2012-02-01T03:11:25Z

Katara Washington Patton
John 15:4, NLT

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

Abiding in Christ

As a child and new Christian, I used to wonder what all of those metaphors in the Bible really meant and how they could be applied to modern-day life. As the old folks used to say, “keep living.” Slowly, as we grow and live as Christians, things that didn’t make much sense begin to get clearer. And even for those of us who are mature Christians, as life unfolds, we can often get a bigger picture of the meaning of a passage. This happened to me recently as I reflected on a juvenile fiction series I was reading for work (one of the perks of working in Christian publishing is I often get revelations while working and being paid for my job, but revelations can happen anywhere if we are attentive). The main character in the book needed to crawl up in God’s lap and talk to God, to confess, to purge, to commune. As I read the words in the manuscript, I suddenly got a glimpse of my husband and our 17-month-old child. Right before Kayla goes to bed, she often sits with my husband in his big chair. She simply sucks her fingers. He, with his arm wrapped around her small body, gazes at the TV or talks to me about random thoughts. He is relaxing after a long day of work, she is settling down before bed; both are enjoying each other’s company. Not a word needs to be exchanged, no activity is needed to calm Kayla or stimulate Derrick. They are comfortable and at peace in each other’s company. I think they both look forward to this time together.

I think the picture of Derrick and Kayla is what Christ means when He tells us to abide in Him. We don’t need to always work to save souls and heal the hurt; we don’t need to always jump up and down in shouts of praise and proclamation (although there are clearly times when we should do these things). I think abiding means crawling up in our Lord’s lap and being, sitting, relaxing, enjoying the company of His sweet, sweet spirit. In His presence, I know all is well with my soul and I too can relax and enjoy the company of my heavenly parent. I need to be recharged and revived to do His will, less I become fruitless. Surely, my soul needs rest from work and the toils of life.

Thought for the day

Help me to abide in you today.

January 28, 2012

2012-02-01T03:06:47Z

Deacon Jiles Taylor-George, MIT
Psalm 1:3 KJV

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

The Seasons of our Christian Life

As we welcome, celebrate, and experience the winter season, it’s a reminder of the seasons of our spiritual lives (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter). Each season promotes growth in our lives and possesses different characteristics.

Spring occurs in our lives as we become knowledgeable of Christ and accept Him as our savior. During this season, our reading and studying of His word will fall on fertile ground and other times it won’t. Summer comes as we begin to notice the Word growing in our lives and producing fruit (“the things we used to do, we don’t do no more” – there is a change in our lives). In the Fall of our lives, we notice the death of some things, yet the new growth of others. Even the things we think are dying produce new growth in the Spring. Winter brings a rest to our spirits – we are not 100% active, we do what needs to be done to survive, knowing that this season as all of them is temporary. The weather will return to warmth and normalcy. Recently as I looked at the clean, white, beautiful snow this winter (2012), I meditated on the winter of our lives as Christians. We have accepted Christ (Spring); learned His word (Summer); grew in His grace and overcame challenges (Fall) and now we see our Christian growth hibernates (Winter) as the Fall challenges fertilize it. It’s not the end. New fruits will be produced in their season. The seasons will be repeated. We are preparing for the approaching Spring season. We thank Christ for the hibernation period. It is during this period we reflect; we are restored and renewed for the approaching Spring season of our lives. As Spring comes, we will rise up with new efforts / initiatives for the work Christ has assigned us in His vineyard. Each season of our lives produces fruit relative to the specific season. What season are you in? What fruits are you producing?

Thought for the day

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1 KJV

January 27, 2012

2012-02-01T02:31:31Z

Psalm 139:23-24

²³ Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

A Message in Psalms

This psalm when read in its entirety depicts a person speaking to God and relating some of the wonders associated with his/her development that began in the womb. There is nothing that God does not understand about us. Yet he continues to care for us. We are created as instruments of God’s love to be share with the community.

Anne E. Streaty-Wimberly, Professor of Christian Education at The Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, GA, states “Each of us also becomes an instrument of the truth of God’s assigned value and love, by what we do and say that mirrors this truth. This mirroring becomes possible only insofar as we are in relationship with God. This requires our giving up those things that make this relationship difficult or impossible.”

Beginning verses as well as the last two verses which are the focus of this devotional are basically identical with the psalmist saying to God to search the thoughts and intent of the heart and to make any changes that God determines are needed. Wimberly continues with this thought and states, “In the presence of the knowing God, we are relieved of all necessity of pretending. This does not mean that our limitations are extinguished and our sins are no longer sins. What it does mean is that in the presence of the knowing God, even our limitations and sins can be dealt with. There is nothing that cannot be understood and dealt with in our lives in the presence of the all-comprehending God.”

As we prepare to minister to the community let us ask God to do the same as the psalmist.

Prayer

Father we come before you recalling the numerous times we have questioned our actions in numerous situations life presents. It is with sincere earnest that we express gratitude for your knowing who we are and the desires of our hearts to serve you.

Thought for the day

Thank you for the wonderful works you have placed within us to share with the community and the guidance you provide.

January 26, 2012

2012-02-01T02:22:25Z

Katara Washington Patton
Philippians 4:6, NIV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Waiting

My 2-year-old daughter has a problem with waiting; and so do I. Do you? Let’s start with Kayla…it’s easy to see her problem. Take for instance, just now. I asked her if she wanted more sliced apples. She said yes and smiled. She then followed me into the kitchen where about 4 slices of apples sat in the slicer. I usually slice an entire apple and then peel a few pieces at a time to give to her (I save the slices with peels for me…need the fiber…but I wait until I’m sure she’s had enough…sacrifices!) At any rate, when I’m taking the peeling off the apple, Kayla gets anxious and starts crying. Sometimes she jumps up and down; other times she throws a full blown tantrum. I’ve learned to ignore her…but inside I’m thinking: really?!!! Do you think I’m not going to give you these slices? I just asked if you wanted them? I’m your mother, have I ever withheld something good from you before?

Well, it’s easy to see how groundless and senseless Kayla’s tantrums are…but is it as easy to see when we get tired of waiting on God? There are times we think the prayer we’ve petitioned has fallen on deaf ears; there are times we think God is refusing to give us what is good and what we desire…and dare I say need. So we, much like 2-year-old Kayla, throw fits. We do it ourselves…we grab what we want even though it may not be the time, the person, the job, the thing God has for us right now. But because we think God is taking too long slicing those apples, we assume God is not going to give us what we desire.

Let us not be impatient or anxious…but in all things, through prayer and thanksgiving, present our requests to God (continuously)…and wait on God to do what is best for us.

Prayer

God give us what we need to wait on you for everything in our lives. Show us when to move, when to stand, how to move and how to wait. Keep us ever mindful of all you have done and continue to do for us as we wait in joyful anticipation.

Thought for the day

Let’s stop acting like 2-year-olds. God knows what we need!

January 25, 2012

2012-02-01T02:18:52Z

Deacon Edwina Hamilton
John 16:33 MSSG

“I've told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the world.”

Digging Beneath Turmoil Pt 2

In part one of this devotion I began by discussing a lack of enthusiasm for attending the seminar on DBT/Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Up to the date of this lecture, I felt my life had been filled with much turmoil. Being honest, many a day I felt as if I was going to lose it and couldn’t take another day of dealing with my circumstances. But God, often times causes reality checks by placing us in the right place at the right time.

Dr. Marsha Linehan, developer of DBT and a survivor of her own issues with mental illness, developed a therapy that discusses the struggle between the “emotional” mind, the “logical” mind and finding balance with the “wise” mind. Ever struggled with this? She discusses how we have no idea how many people with severe mental illness live what appears to be normal, successful lives. This in part because, such people are not in the habit of discussing their conditions; if we are honest with ourselves, but for the grace of God, many of us walk a tightrope hovering between good mental health and being on the verge of a breakdown. We have become a society that camouflages quite easily, too often busy juggling responsibilities, paying the bills, studying, raising families or just surviving and all the while weathering gusts of dark emotions or delusions that would quickly overwhelm any one of us. Dr. Linehan further discusses “radical acceptance” that embraces of the reality of circumstance while empowering the person in becoming an active participant in their breakthrough. She goes on to express it like this, an acceptance of life as it is, not as it is supposed to be; and the need to change, despite that reality it is, is sought. Pastor Moss started the year off with focus on the brother at the pool of Bethesda. It raised a question in my mind about the difference between being able to imagine and engaging in fantasy. I bet brother-man at the pool, often fantasized about being healed, but was not actively participating. Pastor put it like this; Fantasy never has any action nor is it rooted in reality. Imagination on the other hand can be acted upon.

Are you running from the realities of your life, fantasizing about a life you wished existed? Facing it with God, no matter what “it” is, then believing and actively seeking healing, makes a world of difference. Lord, often times we would rather stick our heads in the sand than face the truth.

Prayer

Please give us the courage to face our realities, the determination to make change and the ability to trust You in the process.

Thought for the day

hose struggling to accept the truth about issues revolving around mental health www.dbtselfhelp.com

January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T22:11:27Z

Babette Carlen Black, MIT
Jude 1:24-25 (NRSV)

²⁴Now to him who is able to keep you from falling, and to make you stand without blemish in the presence of his glory with rejoicing, ²⁵to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

STAY STRONG IN FAITH

Similar to the ending of the Letter of Paul to the Romans and the Second Letter of Peter, the ending of this Letter of Jude provides for us a doxology, which is often used in a benediction format as a form of praise at the end of a scriptural letter and at the end of a worship service. The praise is for and to God. As an additional caveat, the praise extends to offering believers hope, courage, and tenacity in holding firm to their faith. This particular Letter of Jude in the New Testament definitively indicates judgment against false teachers and includes warnings and exhortations for believers to avoid the wicked forces and the “scoffers indulging in their own ungodly lusts (verse 18). “ Such evil forces cause death, destruction, and division in this world. Instead, Jude’s letter empowers us to pray in the Holy Spirit and to keep ourselves in the love of God by looking forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. Also we are to have mercy, compassion, and love on ourselves and those who waver (verses 19-22). We are even to save others by “snatching them out of the fire; and have mercy on still others with fear.” Lastly, we are to avoid the danger of personal contact with those who indulge in sins of the flesh (verse 23). In other words, this very powerful letter is an appeal for you to contend for your faith in Christ Jesus. When I think of the word contend, I think about a boxing match. But instead of just being a physical battle, Jude’s letter is also a spiritual battle for your soul and the souls of all believers in Christ.

You do not have to feel alone in this battle by yourself. Verse 24 starts by giving us the assurance that God is able to keep us from falling. We have God, and we have each other to stay encouraged and stay faithful to the Lord, our God, the Most High!

Prayer

God, there are some days when we at times feel weak and powerless in this world. Help us to stay encouraged and not lose our faith. Furthermore, assist us to avoid people and situations that are not for our highest good in you. Help us to remember and to follow the best example of the human walk, Jesus the Christ. Give us discernment and peace in being aware of our surroundings. Help us to be strong in and through you and your Son Jesus, we pray. Amen!

Thought for the day

God is still able to keep you from falling.

January 23, 2012

2012-01-24T22:09:14Z

Deacon Edwina Hamilton
Jonah 2:5-7 NIV

“The engulfing waters threatened me, the deep surrounded me; seaweed was wrapped around my head. To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you, LORD my God, brought my life up from the pit. “When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, LORD, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple.”

D.B.T./Dialectical Behavior Therapy or better yet

This was not a seminar I’d looked forward to attending. First, as a counselor, I was embarrassed to admit that I did not understand the topic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, uh? Then, not anticipating still being at this same workplace, I felt attending was not something needed for my agenda. God knew better! The facilitator began his spiel and my mind began to wonder, with thoughts of all my turmoil (including my present place of employment). But there were words from the facilitator that slowly began to demand my attention. “Acceptance Theory”, “tolerating the moment for what it is right now” and “self actualization of a person not yet being what they are suppose to become”, all these words slowly demanded that focus be averted to that which was at hand. Then there was the testimony of the creator of this therapy. Her story captured my full attention and turned what looked like an ordinary seminar, into an encounter with the Almighty.

Marsha Linehan, developer of DBT has suffered from mental illness (specifically BPD/Borderline Personality Disorder) for most of her life. Dr. Linehan recently gave testimony of her challenges to her family, colleagues and the world. (New York Times-June 23, 2011) This is true testament of the importance of sharing our story, so that others can grow. She speaks of being in Hell, often times literally banging her head against the wall, many times resulting to cutting and burning herself. Overcoming that in itself is awesome, but to go beyond her circumstance, now that’s powerful. How was it accomplished? God showed up!

“One night I was kneeling in there, looking up at the cross, and the whole place became gold — and suddenly I felt something coming toward me,” she said. “It was this shimmering experience, and I just ran back to my room and said, ‘I love myself.’ It was the first time I remember talking to myself in the first person. I felt transformed.” (Marsha Lineham)

God, in combination with finding love for self, changed the world of one dealing with a mental illness. Her research led to the development DBT. It speaks of radically accepting self and the incorporation of prayer. Look at God!

Prayer

Lord, we are fallible and can do nothing without You in our lives. Father, please open our eyes to the realities of who we are, grant us discernment in seeking direction and open the doors to change that allow up to become who you intended us to be. In the name of Him who makes a difference in life and hope, Jesus-Amen.

Thought for the day

The challenges of facing mental illness can be overcome!

January 22, 2012

2012-01-23T05:45:36Z

Dr. Darreyl M. Young-Gibson
Matthew 28: 19-20

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’

RED FLAGS

One afternoon I received a call from a woman who asked me if I would like to participate with some female ministers in a two-week study group of Korean women in Seoul, Korea. I stated thanks, but no thanks, because I did not know any Koreans and was not interested in going to Korea. Several days later I received a second call from the same person asking me if I would reconsider and that the Korean trip was all expenses-paid. Again, I responded no thanks. After hanging up the phone, I asked myself, “Are you crazy? They are offering you an all expenses-paid trip to Korea.” I called the woman back and apologized for not accepting her offer. I informed her that I would love to go on the all expenses-paid trip to Korea. I asked if my friend Charlotte, who was Director of Christian Education in a Chicago Korean church, could also go. She asked me if my friend was also African-American. When I responded yes, she said OK. So my friend Charlotte and I joined the study group of four Caucasian women and one Japanese woman.

We met in a Korean restaurant in Chicago to discuss the trip. Charlotte brought up the first red flag: the group leader was Japanese. Charlotte informed me that Koreans intensely disliked the Japanese because of the treatment Koreans endured under the Japanese 35-year occupation of Korea that ended with World War II. Charlotte questioned how a Japanese woman could lead a study of Korean women. When we arrived at our Korean living quarters in Seoul, the second red flag was raised when the women refused to allow Charlotte to make a collect call to her family to let them know that she arrived safely in Korea. The next day, Charlotte and I asked the group of women for our return airline tickets and for our monetary stipends provided for our expenses. They complied. Charlotte and I then left to go to a neighborhood store. While we were gone, the group of women packed their belonging and left us – with no forwarding address. I suggested that we go to the American Embassy for help. Charlotte said first we should go to Prayer Mountain to pray and after that go to Kwanglim Methodist church. After praying at Prayer Mountain, we went to Kwanglim Methodist church – the largest Methodist church in the world.

While we waited to meet the minister, we heard the Wednesday night service over the loud speaker. Although I did not speak Korean, I told Charlotte, the Holy Spirit was in there. The church members were singing and speaking in tongues. We later met with the minister and told him how we were abandoned by the group of women we were traveling with. The minister, Rev. Sundo Kim told us, “You will stay in our missionary dorm.” The church had just built their missionary dormitory and Charlotte and I were their first visitors. Rev. Kim provided us with a Mercedes Benz limousine and one of the church’s ministers as our driver to tour and sight see Seoul. The dormitory cooks prepared our meals. We worshipped with them, went to ‘dawn prayer’ with them, visited other churches, youth group meetings, and orphanages. Rev. Sundo Kim introduced us during Sunday’s church services, and after church, many of the members came to us wanting us to touch them and their children to bless them. We were driven to the airport on our departure date. Jesus told his disciples “and remember, I am with you always to the end of the age.” Jesus was with us. When we were abandoned in a foreign country, we went to pray at Prayer Mountain, and then we went to church. We trusted God and believed the word of Jesus. God blessed us and took care of us beyond all of our expectations.

Prayer

Gracious and loving God, thank you for the problems that beset us every day, for if we didn’t have a problem, we wouldn’t know that you could solve them. Thank you for being a very present help in time of need. Amen

Thought for the day

When life hits you with unexpected problems, the first thing to do is pray, thanking God for God’s goodness, mercy, and for working out the problem. Then go to church to praise and worship God.

January 17, 2012

2012-01-23T05:41:51Z

Minister Victor Parrott
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NRSV)

¹⁶So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, ¹⁸because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.

The Reality of Mortality

As I grow older, I am becoming more aware of the reality of my mortality. The once prevalent feeling of invincibility has been replaced with the truth of my vulnerability. Aging does indeed have a way of humbling one by imposing heretofore non-existent physical limitations. But the key point is that these limitations are physical.

Fortunately, there is also a spiritual dimension to life. And, generally, there is an inverse relationship between the physical and the spiritual dimensions. As physical vitality diminishes, spiritual awareness and maturity increases. It is the spiritual aspect of being that will extend through eternity. So as Paul notes, the physical challenges, afflictions and failings cannot be compared to that which exists in the spiritual realm because this earthly existence is but a brief occurrence on the timeline of life.

Therefore, if you don’t see or hear as well as you used to, move as quickly as you once did or are impaired by some other infirmity, take heart. God is developing you spiritually for this life and the one to follow.

Prayer

O God, the Giver and Sustainer of life, we give You thanks for life that extends beyond that which is visible and tangible. Amen.

Thought for the day

Aging has its advantages.

January 16, 2012

2012-01-23T05:33:49Z

Minister Victor Parrott
Matthew 12:46-50 (NRSV)

⁴⁶While he was still speaking to the crowds, his mother and his brothers were standing outside, wanting to speak to him. ⁴⁷Someone told him, “Look, your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.” ⁴⁸But to the one who had told him this, Jesus replied, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” ⁴⁹And pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! ⁵⁰For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

Who Is My Family?

Television is a powerful medium. It has the ability to shape opinions and influence perspectives. For example, two shows in particular have offered viewers their versions of the ideal family structure. From the 1950’s to the 1960’s, it was Leave It to Beaver. From the 1980’s to the 1990’s, it was The Cosby Show. Whether it was the Cleavers of Leave It to Beaver or the Huxtables of The Cosby Show, an obvious gap existed between those TV families and many real life family structures.

The Cleavers and Huxtables were middle income families. They were headed by a father (male) and a mother (female). Both families had children who were the biological offspring of the mother and father. What was the implication for families that didn’t meet those criteria? Were they to be considered deficient or defective? Country singer Shania Twain might suggest otherwise.

Twain revealed that her biological father abandoned their family. Fortunately, her mother, who was white, remarried. But the family still didn’t earn enough money to be considered middle income. Nevertheless, in honor of her Native American stepfather, Twain identifies herself as Native American. Twain’s idea of family includes those who love and care for one another.

It’s not the amount of household income that determines whether or not a family exists. Neither is having a biological mother and father in the household a deciding factor. Family members don’t even have to have a common bloodline. So, if your family doesn’t meet the criteria of the Cleavers or the Huxtables, don’t lose heart. What’s important is that the family members love and care for one another. If that is the case, then they are family because they are doing the will of God.

Prayer

God of mercy, we thank you for our families no matter how they are configured. Amen.

Thought for the day

Family is as family does

January 15, 2012

2012-01-23T04:01:07Z

Deacon Bill Singleton
Acts 28: 3-5

Shake it off

Paul gathered up a bundle of sticks and was putting them on the fire when a snake came out and fastened itself to his hand. The natives saw the snake hanging on Paul’s hand and said to one another, “This man must be a murderer, but fate will not let him live, even though he escaped from the sea.” But Paul shook the snake off into the fire without being harmed at all. The Good News Translation. In this 28th chapter of Acts, Paul has survived a ship wreck only to make it to shore and be bitten by a poisonous snake. We as people of God have survived another year. Many of us came into this New Year carrying heavy baggage from last year, we, like Paul need to shake it off. It doesn’t matter what it is, if it is destructive to us we need to shake it off. You may have been in a bad relationship; you need to shake it off. You may have been stuck on a dead end job and been passed over for promotion by someone less qualified; you need to shake it off. If your finances are pulling you under, your children are giving you problems, or maybe depression is dragging you down; shake it off, give it to God. The evil one uses these and anything that might cause you to doubt God, or feel like ending our relationship with God as weapons against us. Isaiah 54:17 says “But no weapon formed against you will prosper.” No weapon used to discourage or hurt us can be successful because we CAN shake it off, we can give it to God to handle.

Prayer

Thank you Lord for taking from us the loads that could crush us.

Thought for the day

We don’t have to die from the problems that fasten themselves to us each day, we can shake them off.

January 14, 2012

2012-01-23T03:51:01Z

Deacon Vanessa LeNoir
Psalm 30:5

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

Joy Will Come in the Morning

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. There are times when it looks like darkness is all around and we do not know what to do or where to go. There seems to be clouds everywhere. Life as we know it has come to an end. Sometimes it happens suddenly while at other times it is gradual. My mother pass 2 years ago. My life style has changed. I recall how growth takes place in darkness. Once a seed is planted it takes time for the plant to grow though the soil, yet we know that it is growing. The same thing happens when changes occur in our lives, even in the midst of storms.

Prayer

Father God thank you for keeping me in your arms and giving me peace..

Thought for the day

Father God thank you for keeping me in your arms and giving me peace.

January 13, 2012

2012-01-23T03:41:04Z

Alden Bell
John 5: 1-5

¹ Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals. ² Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda, and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. ³ Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed, ⁴ and they waited for the moving of the waters. From time to time an angel of the Lord would come down and stir up the waters. The first one into the pool after each such disturbance would be cured of whatever disease they had. ⁵ One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. ⁶ When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?”

Do you want to be healed?

What is it that you struggle with? What keeps you from walking? How many years have you waited to be made whole in your brokenness? I really do love this story in today’s scripture there are for me new revelations here continually. I think we as Christians really do believe in the power of prayer, but there are times we struggle with and pray about our own crippling issues for extended periods of times.

I recently discovered in my own life my prayer for years for God to give me the strength and tools I needed to overcome the issues in my life that leave me weak, unfocused and spiraling out of control down destructive paths had been answered throughout the years. I realize now God has given me the personal fortitude and made available to me all the resources I needed to resist every temptation I faced in this area of my life. During this time of recent discovery God spoke to me in my spirit and ask: Do you want to be healed? I also remembered that God had asked me this question many times before and I had never answered the question. I had become familiar with my struggle. Forty-six years ago when I was twelve a demonic force afflicted me and living and wresting with my affliction had become more comfortable and familiar than living without it. Therefore, believing in the power of prayer I never ask God to remove this from my life because God would do it and then I would have to face life alone without my forty-six year companion and without the daily struggle. Today I say yes! I finally answer the question and my soul says yes, yes, yes!

Prayer

Lord God I pray, help us to hear your voice.

Thought for the day

Give us the strength and courage we need to answer the questions you pose and if we need to say yes help us say yes, yes, yes!

January 12, 2012

2012-01-16T04:07:03Z

Minister Dr. Shirley G. Eloby Fleming
Mark 12:30---NIV

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[g] There is no commandment greater than these.”

Christ’s Prescription for Health

Christ spoke these words in response to request to tell the teachers which of the laws was the most important. Beloved, I believe that God is sending us a prescription for health through the words of this sacred text. It a powerful message for those of us who are making our annual resolutions to live a healthier life in 2012. We know that health is more than access to affordable quality health care. We also know that much of health is determined by social determinants (such as income, education, our sense of identity, our sense of worth, our relationship with each other, and the environment in which we live).

In this summary of God’s law, we can hear God’s call to love God with our total being heart, soul, mind/intellect and strength/actions)—put God first. We belong to God. Secondly, God calls us to love our neighbors with an agape love—free ourselves of hatred and grudges. We must be willing love in a way causes us to sacrifice ourselves for well-fare of others. Lastly, it calls for us to love ourselves. (This is an important law that we often ignore.) We are loveable. We must also be mindful that as stewards of God’s earth, we are to treat the earth with love.

Imagine a kingdom/world where God’s great commandment to love reigns. Because love and justice are inseparable, justice would roll like a mighty river” (Amos 5:24). God’s children know who we are and whose we are. All of God’s children would have enough to eat, a safe and comfortable place to call home, a good education and equal access to opportunities for fair wages and good jobs. This would indeed, be the kingdom of God coming to of earth creating a healthy people and a healthy place.

By now you are wondering, if I’m delusional! How is this possible? With God all things are possible (Philippians 4:`13). We just need to pick up our mat, and join the Holy Spirit in moving creation toward health and it will be the loving kingdom of God on earth.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be the instrument of radical love that your word calls me to be. Lord use me to transform your world into the just, loving and compassionate kingdom of God on earth that is in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6: 9-13). In the end, Lord, you get all the glory for it is in you that I live, move and have my being (Acts 17:28).

Thought for the day

Love can heal, transform, liberate, bring health and wholeness to God’s people and God’s earth!!!

January 11, 2012

2012-01-16T04:01:25Z

Dorian Robinson,
Trinity MIT Program
Luke 18: 27

“And he said, the things which are impossible with men are possible with God.”

Your Mission Is Not Impossible

My brothers and sisters in order to have a victory in your life, you must turn every impossible situation over to Jesus. Jesus specializes in the impossible! If you have questions and need some answers, talk to Him. If your mountains are crushing you, speak to the mountains that they be removed. Many times we find our problems are bigger than us. We find ourselves worrying instead of praying. Jesus waits for us to run out of solutions. We may feel that our friends can help, but in reality we find they can only pray for a favorable outcome for us. Jesus waits for you to run out of steam, to run out of solutions, so you will finally turn everything over to Him. Is there anything impossible for God? When you are at this point, He becomes the source of everything you need. The only way for your relationship to work with God is for you to let Him take full control. If you don’t let go and let God you will find Him standing in the background, and letting you make an even bigger mess of it. You see, your mission, your outcome is only impossible if you don’t turn it over to God!

Prayer

Heavenly Father open our eyes so that we may see that the answer we seek to any problem that we are faced with is not impossible to overcome because the answer lies in You! Help us to look up to the hills to which our help comes from. It comes from you! Help our belief and faith in you to pray more, and worry less. Amen.

Thought for the day

There is nothing impossible for God! The devil wants you to self-destruct by taking your eyes off of God and to focus on your circumstances. Whatever you need, God’s got it. He has everything you need.