Friday, November 27, 2009
Thanks and Thankfulness
Thanksgiving is commendable, appropriate and pleasant, but gratefulness is better. Thanks is an action but thankfulness is an attitude. Thanks can be made from the heart but it can also be made with the lips only. Gratefulness will always be evidenced through a persons actions, words and thoughts.
It is about Character. Just as a person can give without being generous, or smile without being happy, or go to church without being spiritual, one can give thanks without being grateful. All point actions are good but nothing like the lasting goodness of character.
The difference is really seen when situations are not conducive to giving thanks. It is easy to give thanks in a thanksgiving atmosphere. Gratefulness, however, shines brightest when situations are unpleasant or even problematic. To be thankful when your hurting, grateful in tribulation, or positive through problems is evidence of great character.
Like all things character, thankfulness is a choice. We have the power and privilege to decide what character we will embrace. We can reject anger and embrace peace. We can reject despondence and embrace hope. We can reject selfishness and embrace sacrifice.
The same for gratitude. Some complain, murmur, sulk, criticize, scoff, demean, bemoan and grieve. They do so because of a choice based on poor values. The consequence is an unpleasant, witheringly bitter attitude of ungratefulness. Conversely, if one chooses to be grateful, even when life calls for complaints, that person exudes so kind, positive and encouraging attributes.
This is why Paul says that the Spirit-filled person is "Thankful for all things in Christ Jesus (Eph. 5:19)."
It is the season of giving thanks, but we must be people of gratefulness.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Growing Up

There were two men who levied great insults against the psalmist: Nabal and Shimei.
Nabal’s insult came when David was hiding from Saul. He slanderously denied help to David and his men though they watched over his shepherds for the year. It was a disrespectful, inconsiderate offense from a crass and base individual. To not help was a cultural wound, but to speak evil of good added salt to the wound. David reacted by mounting up with his men and riding to Nabal’s house with intent to slaughter all the men.
Shemei’s insult came when David ran from Absolam, who led a semi-successful coup against the throne. Shemei was a descendant of Saul, so he’d been holding a grudge for over twenty years. When he saw David and his men walking dejectedly from Jerusalem, he laughed, called names and even threw rocks at the man of God. David did not retaliate or allow his captain to kill him. Instead David said that perhaps God sent Shemei to insult him.
How did we get such a difference in reaction? Why did David go from antagonist to pacifist? What changed a hot-headed war machine into a patient, considerate and forgiving man of peace?
The answer my friends is Life. Life changed David from a rash avenger to a patient sufferer. Life humbled, changed and matured the Man after God’s own heart. The years from Nabal to Shemei included his sin with Bathsheeba, the rape of his daughter Tamar, the murder of his son Amnon and the rebellion of Absalom. These things would change anyone.
Life is producing a kinder, more thoughtful, less offended David Wilson. And I’m determined to learn the lessons without the loss. What is life producing in you?
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Dealing
The Psalmist said, "Oh that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest (Ps. 55:6)."
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Disciples of Dayton
A few weeks back I returned to .jpeg)
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I commend the audience for their patience and support through a not so celebrated subject – Stewardship. That is a hard subject for many, but
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009
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Friday, October 23, 2009
Change
“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;
wisdom and power are his.
He changes times and seasons;
he sets up kings and deposes them.
He gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to the discerning.
He reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what lies in darkness,
and light dwells with him.
-- Daniel 2:19-22
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
God Sees
That’s one of His names in Hebrew. Jehovah-Roi. It was articulated by Hagar after God miraculously provided water for her and her son Ishmael. The name celebrates a very comforting and encouraging aspect of the character of God. He Sees.
"But the Eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love."
Psalm 33:18 NIV
God sees my adversity – It is a comfort to know that when I suffer, God sees. A loving, benevolent Father watching over His child will move in response to danger. So often we feel that no one sees or cares about our troubles. That’s not true; God sees, knows and understands our trouble. This is why His Word is so important. By it He guides, comforts, restores and strengthens.
God sees my iniquity – It is convicting to know that when I sin, God sees. You can walk in the darkest night, wearing all black clinging to the shadow, and still God sees. In the closet, in the basement with the lights off, God sees. He see even what is on our hearts. This is not meant to cause paranoia, but one who reverences God can’t help but feel a great, burning desire to do right in His sight.
"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him." 2 Chronicles 16:9 NKJV
God sees my destiny – It is compelling to know that when I cannot, God sees. As he exists outside of the sphere of time, His perspective is timeless. He sees then, now and after, all at once. He knows the end at the beginning. Such vision is invaluable to the plans for my life. I cannot make the right decisions, choose the right path or endure the right processes without God’s perspective. His higher vision lets me know through His Word that, humble is the way, the meek inherit the earth and love conquers all. His vision reveals that, sin destroys a nation, tribulation worketh patience and good overcomes evil. What I need is faith. Trust to do as He say, even when it doesn’t make sense to me. “We walk by faith and not by sight,” can only be understood in the light of God’s perspective.
"The Eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth."
Psalm 34:15-16 NKJV
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Hallelujah for Hopewell
The Arlington Church of Christ in
150 came with him in obedience to the Gospel and thus began the Arlington Road Church of Christ. Awesome!Some of the members of that original group were there for the Anniversary. Excellent!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
Blessed
Monday, August 31, 2009
Stockholm
The recent rescue of Jaycee Dugard after 18 years of captivity touched my heart and provoked my spiritual mind. Jaycee was kidnapped at age 11, kept in a tent in a backyard, raped and abused for 18 years, and even had two children by the male captor.
What is bizarre is that she bonded with her tormentors. She helped run a business and did not take advantage of the opportunities to escape. This is called Stockholm syndrome. It is a psychological shift that takes place when a captive is first threatened then shown acts of kindness by the captors. The result is that the victim identifies with and defends those who are actually abusing them.
While shocking and incredulous at first, it occurs to me that this is a constant condition in the Spiritual realm. We once served sin but now we have been redeemed. Our old master kept us in slavery, paying us slave wages. Now, under a new Master, we serve righteousness and receive life everlasting. For some odd reason, we still go and visit that old master and work in the field we prayed to be delivered from.
“What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom 6:1-23).”
Amazing Grace!!!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
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"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."
Phillipians 4:19
Monday, August 24, 2009
Conversation
ere, meaning to turn around. So then, in a conversation you are abiding with and being turned around (to some degree) by who you are talking with.Scripture says, “Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him (Proverbs. 26:4).” “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (1 Corinthians 15:33).” It becomes clear etymologically and practically that we must be careful of our words and who we share them with.
Arguing with a fool makes you a fool. We know this to be true by the many childish discussions (or should I say ‘disgustions’) that we have witnessed or participated in. Tension rises, pressure builds, voices get raised and the wrong words are said. All for naught because it accomplished nothing positive.

To argue with a fool you have to meet him at his level. This means that you have to climb down into the ‘fool pit’ with him. The same is true for all unworthy conversation. The real results, after all the words and passions have passed, is that you have become that which you so despised.
It is about motive and value. If you know a person to be argumentive keep it simple. Or if the subject is not so important, brush it off. Wise men hold their peace but a fool answers every challenge. We don’t have to correct every mistake, answer every critique, silence every rumor, disprove every lie or confront every insult. The higher you rise the more things are beneath you.
By the way, it tickles my soul when someone tries to bait me into an argument and I reply, “Oh really, that’s awesome.” Or “Wow, I never looked at it like that before.” I send them merrily on their way while I save time and energy. If someone genuinely has a point or needs fruitf
ul contention, that’s one thing. But if they are out to belittle, or strut their stuff, they can take center stage elsewhere.I wonder if this principle holds true in the positive. If arguing with a fool makes me a fool, and evil communication corrupts good morals, then what happens when I speak with the wise and good. Abiding with and being turned around by wise men sounds like a good personal growth plan.
Wow! Maybe that’s why we all need to pray more.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Lyrics-
Monday, July 20, 2009
R.I.P.?
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Blogshot
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
The Transcendant Path
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Next...
Minister Howard Watson and his family made sure that I lacked for nothing. The members finally warmed up to me after they forgot about Bernard (inside story). We had a ball. When the Bible says that they "killed the fatted calf", I literally know what that means now. They barbecued a fresh calf and it was the absolute best Brisket I've ever had in my young life.I look forward to the great things God will do through that congregation as they follow their great leader.
And Then…
Next it was my pleasure to preach for the Country Club Drive Church of Christ in Fayetteville, N.C. http://www.countryclubchurchofchrist.com/ That church is doing a great job and is filled with very loving and receptive members. We challenged them each night from the theme, “Of Him, By Him and Through Him”. They took excellent care of Cathi and I.
ospel Quality (SWCC singing group) days with Gabby, their daughter. They are wonderful people. Bro. Mason always has some quick but gentle witticism percolating in his mind, while Sis. Mason has a smile that can make the rain stop. We had a great time with them, the Whites the Jeeters and many others who opened their homes or took us out to eat.Wednesday, July 1, 2009
It's been a long time
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Jim Clingman
We were thouroughly inspired and encouraged by Brother James during our Stewardship Workshop last month. With his special blend of historical proofs, political expertise and Scriptural truths, Jim lifted our hearts and pointed in the direction of economic relevance. Friday, May 1, 2009
No More Prayers for Nothing
We were boarding what would be a long flight. I was tired and wanted to stretch out and be comfortable. So far, the seat next to me was empty and I was so hopeful that it would remain that way. As the line of passengers began to dwindle I did something that led to a very life changing event. I prayed to God that no one would sit next to me.
Yup! I bowed my head, closed my eyes and sent up my request to the throne of God. I’d done so before. I thought nothing of it. But then an incredible thing happened.
In the midst of my prayer, before I could finish my one line request, I saw Jesus. He was praying in the Garden, leaning hard against a stone. Dust covered his clothes. Sweat was running off his face. Tears were in his eyes and his lips were dry.
He lifted his head,
turned to me.
And said,
“That’s what you come here for?”
The look on his face and the sound in his voice had an immediate effect on me. I felt so ashamed. How small I was. How petty and selfish I had been. A prayer for an open seat became clearly un-Christ like.
I determined then that I will no longer pray for nothing.
So what if I have to sit next to someone on the flight. So what if it rains and spoils my golf plans. So what if my team doesn’t win. So what if I have to make adjustments or alternate plans. I will no longer pray for that which matters none. I will endure the small things to become bigger and better.
I will pray instead for the things that Jesus died for me to enjoy – Self-control, wisdom, purity, virtue, patience, endurance, love and such.
I wouldn’t be ashamed to go to the Garden and pray for those things.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
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Sunday, April 12, 2009
Savior
He saved a marriage feast that ran out of wine.He saved our souls by dying on the cross.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
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Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Joy
Joy. There’s nothing like it. It’s the sweetest of all emotions. Highest of the high. Love can be tough, sadness has its depth, anger is hot, even fear has its excitement; but nothing is like joy.Joy. Often inexpressible, sometimes inconceivable but always incomparable. Joy is that heavenly feeling. Praise comes with it. Hope waits on it. Sadness flees from it. And love labors till it.
Joy. It’s the holla of Hallelujah, the life of the party and the shout of worship. It looks like a smile, sounds like a laugh and smells like fried chicken (or maybe fresh baked cookies).
The Greek word for joy is Xara (Chara). It is derived from another beautiful word Xaris (Charis), which means grace. Joy is therefore, according to Scripture, the state of gladness resulting from the gift of salvation through Christ.
Joy is more than common happiness. Hap means chance occurrence or events. Happiness is based on happenings, or happenstance which is therefore haphazard at best. The grace
of God is given through the once and for all time event of Calvary. As our joy is tied to an eternal, immutable event, then we ought to as Paul says, Rejoice always.Once again it is a matter of focus. If you look to chance occurrences for emotional highs, you will inevitably be disappointed, deflated or depressed. But if the work of God through Jesus Christ is the source of your joy, then you will never be ashamed. As always, we get to choose our emotional state by choosing what we focus on.
This is the only way one can -
Rejoice when persecuted (Mat. 5:12).
Rejoice in hope (Rom 5:2).
Count it all joy in temptation (Jam 1:2).
Rejoice evermore (I Thess. 5:16).
Rejoice in Suffering (I Pet. 4:13).

Get your mind right by getting your sight right.
Hope this hopes you.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Eyelight
Greed. It seems like it has made a comeback recently, but in reality, it has never gone away. Avarice, lust, covetousness has been the singular cause of some of history’s greatest misses. From Eve looking at the forbidden fruit, to David looking at Bathsheba taking a bath. From Ahab weeping for Nabioth’s vineyard, to Judas weeping because he sold the Lord. Greed turned Lot’s wife to salt, gave Merriam leprosy, sent Joseph to jail, got Achan and family stoned and buried Korah and associates.While that may be ancient history, greed and covetousness has been foremost in man’s destruction until this very day. Madoff and IGA are nothing new. Whenever you hear of oppression, slavery, murder, rape, adultery and such, greed has overcome someone’s heart and led them down the path of destruction.
Jesus says this of greed, “The Light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single (healthy or clear), thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore thy light be darkness how great is that darkness (Matt. 6:22-23).”
The meaning of this becomes clearer when you see the verses before it “Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth…., For where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” And then the verses after, “No man can serve two masters…, You cannot serve God and mammon.”
What the Lord is revealing to His followers is the pollution of greed and its corruptive power over the heart. As the eye is the source of light (Light = knowledge and truth), then the eyes must be kept clear. If not then it fills the body with darkness (Absence of light = wickedness and ignorance). Our souls either suffer from lack of light or flourish in the abundance of light. We must not let the lust for treasure and the service of mammon pollute our purpose.
Keep your eye focused on light and make sure that nothing blocks that focus and Light will fill your soul. Don’t let your soul become darkened by greed.
Burlington North Carolina
I'm proud to claim the minister, Darryl Cannady, and his wife Rita, as my co-labourer cousins. Concientious and considerate, they took great care of me. With their love for God's Word and His people, we look for great things from Burlington. God bless!
A bonus blessing was seeing my friends from Durham. That meant golf of course. I stunk big time the first day, but did better the next. Jamie Foxx finally got his revenge. http://expalot.blogspot.com/2008/01/southside-coc-in-durham-nc.html Don't get too comfortable Johnny, Spring is coming real soon.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Up North at Northside
The Northside Church of Christ, in Rochester, New York, is a great place to preach indeed. I had a splendid time preaching for their Winter Gospel Meeting. The hospitality, kindness and acceptance was only outdone by their readiness to hear the Word. They love to be taught the Word, and I love teaching it.Brother Walker, the Minister of this great work, was a gracious and conscientious host. I look forward to our fellowship continuing to blossom. He has an awesome task with a historical church. Their location could only be called a church campus. The church sits next to their Senior Assisted Nursing Home, which sits next to their School. They are representing Christ well. I was thrilled to hear him talk about a future greater than their great past. That’s visionary talk.
Northside has one of the most attractive buildings I’ve ever preached in.Special thanks to Joan and Brother Rustin for name dropping. Commendations to all the cooks and cake bakers. You shouldn’t have. No really. You shouldn’t have. Thanks to Brandon for the pix.
Funny Fact - . When people in Rochester talk about us in the city, they call us New York. A brother said “Ive been in Rochester all my life but I’ve never been to New York.” Tripped me out.

Hopefully, our time together will help them to not be so afraid of a visit to the Big City.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Psalm 63 - The Message
I've worked up such hunger and thirst for God,
traveling across dry and weary deserts.
So here I am in the place of worship,
eyes open, drinking in your strength and glory.
In your generous love I am really living at last!
My lips brim praises like fountains.
I bless you every time I take a breath;
My arms wave like banners of praise to you.
I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy;
I smack my lips. It's time to shout praises!
If I'm sleepless at midnight,
I spend the hours in grateful reflection.
Because you've always stood up for me,
I'm free to run and play.
I hold on to you for dear life,
and you hold me steady as a post.
Those who are out to get me are marked for doom,
marked for death, bound for hell.
They'll die violent deaths;
jackals will tear them limb from limb.
But the king is glad in God;
his true friends spread the joy,
While small-minded gossips
are gagged for good.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Blogshot
"If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small (Prov. 24:10)."
Friday, February 20, 2009
Should there be a Black History Month?
What do you think? I would like to know what my spiritually minded readers have to say. Chime in. Let's hear some thought provoking, purposeful, enlightening pros and cons.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Thanks Dr. Maxwell
Jamilla Lyiscott did her poetical spoken word thing with her characteristic relevance, cultural experience and intellectual excellence. She’s one of the best in the business. Thanks sis.
Then we saw a dramatic soliloquy by Jeremy Manzay, (aka – J. Kyle, aka – the dude that Denzil Washington threw water on and who later was jacked up against the window and arrested for selling heroine out of the cleaners in “American Gangster.”) http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewProfile&friendID=78095680 He helped us think about the cultural clash within an individual embracing Christo-centricity over ethno-centricity.
And then Dr. James Maxwell brought the key-note address. He is Minister Emeritus at the Roswell Avenue Church of Christ in Kansas City, Kansas and Vice President for Institutional Expansion at Soutwestern Christian College. His subject was the History of the Black Church. He helped us see the connection from Scripture, through the Renaissance, Slavery and the Reformation movement till now. We went from the Ethiopian Eunuch to Marshall Keeble and G. P. Bowser. Excellent!! His book, “Don’t Know Much about Church History” is a great resource.
On the next day, we had a discussion on the Charismatic Movement. Dr. Maxwell is one of the Brotherhood’s best apologists, and he showed it on Saturday afternoon. For over 2 ½ hours he presented the truth and answered questions concerning the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Miraculous Gifts, Prophetic Word and such like. It was an awesome revelation from the Word of God. A true “Spirit-filled time”.
Amen and Amen
Go to http://www.jamesomaxwell.com/index.htm for more info on Brother Maxwell and a book display.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
I Heard That Mr. President!!!
"Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America: They will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."
My favorite line so far, "Your people will judge you for what you build not for what you destroy."
Go Obama! Our Prayers are with you. "I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. As you make your requests, plead for God's mercy upon them, and give thanks. Pray this way for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Saviour, for he wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth (II Tim. 2:1-3)."
There are some really moving pictures at this site! Check it -- http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2009/01/the_inauguration_of_president.html
Thursday, January 8, 2009
The Pointe!!!
Rodney, Shalonda, Jackie, Harold and the crew have a special place in my heart. (In fact, if my calendar calculations are right,
God is blessing that congregation abundantly and I am glad to see it. Thank God for their hospitality, appreciation, personality and love for God.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Time Mastery
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The Manger’s Meaning
This is the time of year when a lot of emphasis is placed on Jesus as a baby in the manger. I’m not complaining at all, but I know that there is much more to Jesus’ coming than a birthday celebration and the nativity scene.He was born to have a body. Jesus was God in the flesh. John says, that the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us (Jn. 1:14). The body gave us a lasting living example of true righteousness. We can walk and talk like Him only because he came down here from up there.
He had a body to have blood. It’s the blood that washes away all iniquity. In fact, the blood is essential to our cleansing and covenant. The blood of Jesus is literally the blood of God. Perfect, powerful and perpetual, His blood remains effective. That is why it is still strong to save this sinful world.
He had blood so that He could die. It wasn’t the birth that saved us. It was His death. He took our guilt and punishment so that we could have His innocence and life. He is the repentant sinner’s divine substitution. This would not have worked had He come down with His godly substance.
This is the real meaning of the manger. He was and is God’s gift to man. Not to be ritualized but reverenced. Christmas is nice, but Christianity is the real deal.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Lord I lift your name on high.Thursday, December 4, 2008
Crushed for Stuff
In my ministry history I’ve seen heartbreaking evidences. Couples on the verge of divorce because of separate finances. A single mother ignoring an eviction notice so she could get a new weave. Economic enslavement, wanton wastefulness and purposeless pursuits. And the saga continues.
Eventually or evidently, subtly or obviously the All-Wise makes His point – “ And he said unto them, Take heed, and keep yourselves from all covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth (Luke 12:15)”
We should master money and things rather than letting money and things master us.
I wonder if the store closed after Damour died. Even more, I wonder if those who stepped on him kept on shopping.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Blog Shot
"And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! For then would I fly away, and be at rest." Psalm 55:6
Friday, November 28, 2008
Growing Gratefulness
God’s grace is unmerited, undeserved, and unconditional. Simply stated, it is not earned nor can it be repaid. God loves the unlovely, is kind to the coldhearted and saves the wicked sinner. Amazingly, He does this with no contractual agreement of reciprocity, no condition of lasting devotion, and no compulsional proof of repentance. Yet there is something God wants. There is a divine expectancy. Thankfulness.
God does what He does and loves like He loves with a hope, a faith even, that we will be grateful. God desires that we will have the decency, the honorableness, to show appreciation for His person and performance. “Because, although they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were they thankful…(Rom. 1:21).” This complaint is a revelation if viewed conversely. God desires glory and thanksgiving in light of His goodness.
Thankfulness is at first simple but transcends into a lifestyle. One begins with the common decency of telling God thanks. Thank him for life, for joy, for challenges, for mercy, for all things. As you thank God and show gratefulness, honor kicks in. You begin to recognize how inconsistent it is to receive gift after gift with thankfulness from someone that you do not respect or honor. So thankfulness leads to humility which produces devotion and service.
Let me be clear. Be grateful to God for everything. While we do not deserve His gifts, He certainly is worthy of our thanks. The real challenge is to grow your gratefulness to devotion and service. You cannot ever repay God for what He has done, but you can respect Him with your service and honor Him with your lifestyle.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart,
O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:16-17
Be grateful
Be godly
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Shepherd's Psalm
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Ahhhh. That was Gooooooood!
It all started with our 5th Annual Acapella Concert. We had 'Majestic Sounds' from Kings, 'New Day' from Harlem, 'The Enchanters' from Newark, 'Redeemed' and 'The Easternaires' from the Metro Area.
Everybody did an excellent job.
That made the Thomas real happy.
Praise God with me for the success of these events. Many thanks to the great people that made it work right.
For more pix go to http://shokofoto.com/BrklCollege_html/
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Abilene, Texas
The minister of this great church is Dr. Tony Roach, the Love Doctor Himself (Righteous Love). Dr. Roach is known across this brotherhood for his "God's Love Bank" studies. He is a prolific writer, effective teacher and great thinker. Every time we talked I was challenged and inspired to grow as a preacher. God has blessed us with Bro. Roach. You can check him out at http://www.godslovebank.com/
Special thanks to the White's for a few good times and old memories.
Shout out to Gerald, Randy and Tony - More Golf and less haircuts. Haha!!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Kings Church of Christ 5th Annual Acapella Concert
Tell all your friends in the New York area. Absolutely Free.
The Gospel at Gray Road
It was my extreme pleasure to serve the Gray Road Church of Christ for their Revival/Gospel Meeting. It is a great joy to deliver the Word to those who rejoice over the Word. Cincinnati, Ohio holds a special place in my heart because of the Minister Richard Rose, the Elders and Deacons, and the members of the congregation.
Special Bullets
- Golf outings with Otis Green, Ed Shaw, and Bro. Hudson. I wasn't the best, but thankfully not the worst. One day I will write the story of my near fatal, yet highly comical golf-cart accident.
- Cleavon Matthews and one of his Elders, Bro. Pettiford, came down for some golf. We played teams. I think I started a Cincinnati/Dayton rivalry. Bro. Rose rode along to talk noise.
- 2009 planning session with author James Clingman, the original 'Blackonomicist'. He has a relevant message.
- Country dindin with the Jasper Family. May God bless.
- The Freedom Center with Richard Rose. Sometimes it seemed like Bro. Rose knew the historical figures personally. No offense Old Man.
- Visiting the garden plots at the back of the church. Awesome!! Oh the land the land! Can't have that in Brooklyn.
- Huge portions of love and appreciation from most if not all.
God Bless you Gray Road.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Blog Shot
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Long Living
The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. – Proverbs 10:27Fear often gets a bad rep. Phobia. Frightened. Scared. Cowardly. These are negative aspects of the word fear. There are, however, some very positive synonyms of fear. The Proverbist teaches that this positive fear has great consequence -- prolonged life. In a world where everyone is trying to live longer, the fear of God somehow never makes the list for longevity secrets.
What is the fear of the Lord?
It is the Awe of God. – The fact that He takes your breath away when you try to comprehend His majesty.
It is the Respect for God. – The recognition that He holds the highest seat of all power and authority in the entire universe.
It is the Reverence of God – The proper esteem which humbles the proud, convicts the sinner and silences the critical.
It is the Mysteriousness of God – The paradox of an omnipresent eternal being that no one can see or has seen.
It is the Severity of God – The awful, nagging, consuming terror which continuously haunts the disobedient.
This type of fear will motivate one to the way of wisdom. And that wisdom will in turn result in long life. Theologically speaking, Jesus is the wisdom of God. Following him will give you Eternal Life.
.
Friday, October 3, 2008
"Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength."
Thursday, September 25, 2008
In the Valley of Elah
Thursday, September 11, 2008
35th Annual Southeastern Regional Lectureship

For more info and registration forms go to-http://www.sside.org/files/35thAnnualSoutheasternRegionalPacket_Final.pdf
Update: Lectureship was great. Thanks Durham. Southside Church of Christ gets the job done. I even got a chance to participate. Expositionally, that is.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Celebrate to Emulate
This is why worshipping the Lord is essential. It is a celebration of God. We sing and pray in recognition and rehearsal of His great acts, lovingkindness and awesome glory. We clap our hands in applause; we lift our voices in songs of cheer at the incomparable majesty of God. We ask for blessings like a fan ask for autographs. We bring the gifts of our first fruits, tithes and offerings. We even get to hear Him speak to us, and tell us the secrets of life.
Something happens in this celebration, or rather, something should happen. As we celebrate God for who He is and what He has done, we are transformed into His image. Not an image of physical features of course, but the image of His character, the likeness of how He is, the semblance of what He does. This is what worship is for. We can Celebrate God in order to Emulate God. We become Godly by embracing the character and the likeness that we adore so much.
In fact, to do otherwise is a mockery of worship.
What sense would it make to;
- Thank God for loving you sacrificially, and then get into a fight over $20 with your sister?
- Praise God for His perfect holiness, and then pollute yourself with your iniquity of choice?
- Applaud God for His awesome works, and then laze back on the couch until next Sunday?
- Confess to God for His grace and mercy, and then hold a grudge for someone looking at you the wrong way?
If we celebrate Him we must emulate Him. True worship transforms the worshipper into that which He worships. Therefore, worship God for a change.
“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (2 Cor. 3:18).”
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Blogshot
"He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city (Proverbs 16:32)."
Friday, August 15, 2008
God is not a Fad!!!
While that is expected and accepted in fashion and such, it is totally ridiculous to treat God in that way. God is not a style. He does not change. He doesn’t come in or go out. And He certainly isn’t affected by someone else’s value. He is God, the eternal I Am.
I have seen people treat God like a new fashion. They make statements like “After I tried everything else and failed, I tried Jesus.” Or “When all else fails, pray.” That’s poor phrasing from poor thinking. The results is an on again off again religion. An up and down faith. An in-season, out-of-season lifestyle.
Practically speaking, when one ‘tries God’ they make an effort to follow Him. That sounds good until trouble makes its inevitable entrance. Hard times, heartache, opposition, not to mention persecution will turn a ‘try God’ mentality into a run for the hills reality. No wonder so many change their clothing in order to cater to the crowd. Some even make a switch because they get bored.
Trying God does not work. Commitment, devotion, submission to His will is the only way to find meaning and fulfillment. Any other way will not last. Let’s not look at God and His way as an elective or sample pack. Recognize that He is more essential than life itself. To quote Yoda, “Do or not do, there is no try ."
Monday, August 4, 2008
“If It Smells Good…”
About three times a week I would drive past a food factory very early in the morning. I would smell all kinds of wonderful scents and flavors. Sometimes it would be the unmistakable smell of bacon, sausage, or baked bread with cheese. As it was early in the morning, and this was before Cathi learned the joy of cooking breakfast for her man, I would enjoy the scents, rubbing my belly while imagining what was going on in that giant kitchen. I could almost smell it.
Much later, I overheard someone giving directions for that same area. In it they referenced the Purina Factory. And that’s when it hit me. It wasn’t Nabisco. It was Purina! As in Purina Puppy Chow!! I didn’t smell snacks, I smelled dog food.
Talk about a paradigm shift to the negative. The same smells that used to tantalize my senses became offensive and nauseating. What I thought was wonderful at the first I found out was unacceptable and inappropriate for human consumption. Knowledge made the difference.
Here is the profundity. Don’t get excited over how things smell, determine where it comes from. Knowledge of the source will determine the appeal. Sin looks and smells good as long as you don’t consider the source and its effect.
“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof is the way of death (Prov.14:12).”
Saturday, July 19, 2008
No Vacancy
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Blog Shot
My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word.
Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
- The Psalmist David
Friday, July 11, 2008
Selling Yourself Short
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Thank God for Forty
Blog Shot
"Behold, he shall come up and fly as the eagle, and spread his wings over Bozrah: and at that day shall the heart ofthe mighty men of Edom be as the heart of a woman in her pangs." Jeremiah 49:22, KJV
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Brother Intern
Introducing Johnathan Harrell, new student of expository preaching and relevant ministry. Johnathan, aka Johnny V., aka Joe Nathan, aka Brother Intern is doing a super fabulous job at the Kings Congregation. He is a student of Southwestern Christian College by way of Sheldon Heights Church of Christ in Chicago.I think he is learning a great deal about preaching and ministry. We got to hear him for the first time as he shared some deep thinking on John 3:16 a few days back. He did a great job and we look forward to seeing his development.
I have been told by many that he is a songster, a melodian if you will. I found this as proof, thought you'd enjoy.
Go Johnny V!!! (said with Brooklyn accent) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEzLCe_qG9U
Friday, June 20, 2008
Five Stones in Hand
We all know the story of David and Goliath. While it is the classic tale of good versus evil, it is also proverbial in that the little guy beat the big guy. Everybody loves the one who beats the odds and overcomes great disadvantages to do the impossible. Rocky, Luke Skywalker, Rudy and Seabiscuit are some examples.
With just one stone from the river bed, a lad named David killed an eight foot muscle man named Goliath. He won the battle for the host of Israel in the valley of Elah. What a shock that must’ve been. No wonder that David would later become one of the most notable figures in Scripture.
As amazing as it is that it took just one stone, it is also profound that he had five stones in hand. In fact he had a staff as well. He was prepared for a longer fight than it took. In my mind David thought, “First I’ll stand at a distance, hit him with this, then this, then move in hit him with this and this, step closer hit him good with this, feint like I have another stone and then ram this staff down his big mouth!”
Maybe David didn’t think like that but we do know he had more going for him than his blessedness. He did not go into this momentous battle counting on a one stone miracle. He had supplies, strategy and his secure faith in God.
The thought is that faith in God doesn’t mean that you fail to have a strategy or plan. God may be with you and will give you the victory, but that doesn’t exempt you from doing your part. God’s part is awesomely wonderful, but we still have our part to play.
-He answers prayer, but diligence still matters.
-He will make a way out of no way, but you should still look where you are going.
-We are blessed and highly favored, but we should still wash up and dress to impress.
-He gives us a ready recollection, but we still must study to show ourselves approved. 
-God will provide, but you should still have a retirement plan.
-He has given us the victory, but we still must fight the good fight of faith.
David’s five stones is a great lesson for us all. Pray, pray and pray, but be ready with five stones. Never think you are so blessed that you need not be prepared.
“There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise: The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;… (Prov. 30:24-25).”
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Bird Poop Beauties
Yup. You heard me. Bird poop is smeared on people's faces in search of that healthy, exuberant glow. http://in.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idINN2542211820080425
The world seems to be going mad. Poop on the face just about says it all.
What a wonderful world this would be if we were half as concerned about inner beauty as we are about external temporalities. The countenance of character is wondrous to behold. A pleasent smile, a twinkle in the eye and a beautiful mouth speaking blessings and kindness. That's beauty, poopless beauty. Don't put poop on your face, try some principles in your heart.
Nightingale dropping treatment - $200. Wonderful personality - Priceless.
" Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price (1 Peter 3:2-4)."
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Flood Waters
"Save me Oh God, for the waters have come in unto my soul... (Ps. 69)."Friday, June 6, 2008
"Ezekiel 16"
Three relevant thoughts come from this passage.
I. God has a harsh reaction to sinfulness. This chapter is one of the hardest hitting, soul-shocking passages in Scripture. Red hot indignation, incredulous observations and divine retribution are evident in God's message through the prophet. Sin is the reason. It is a grand reminder that God is provoked by immoral living.
II. God knows where you come from. In the above quote, God is erasing Jerusalem's pride over their heritage. He essentially says, "You weren't all that. You were the unwanted offspring of heathen parents." Ouch!! Those were hard words for pious Jews. Good words for some of us as well. Perhaps not so dramatic, but God knows the real story behind our made for testimony tales.
III. The thoughts and intents of men have no power over the Word of God. They say 'die'. He says 'Live'. I'm going to listen to what God says. It makes perfect sense that the highest perspective has the greatest power over my life. I should listen to what He says rather than man. I need to constantly hear what God has to say about my life.
Let's live in such a manner that God is pleased with our lives.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Happy Birthday Relevant Revelation

Friday, May 30, 2008
Blog Shot
"Fear God and keep His commandments. for this is the whole duty of man." - Solomon
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Seeds
Seeds are amazing things. They are remarkable mechanisms from the wonderful workshop of the cosmos creator. I was reminded of it while planting Spinach earlier this year. Something we usually take for granted has some very awesome and thought provoking qualities.Amazing #1 – Seeds look nothing like what they shall become.
Dry and minuscule will become large and leafy. Hard and bitter becomes soft and sweet. A berry can become a bush, while a nut can become a tree. There’s great potential in those little pieces.Amazing #2 – Seeds look dead, but are really dormant. That means alive but in super slow-motion. There are things going on inside the seed but at an
indecipherable rate. They can remain vital for many years in such dormancy. When they come into the right environment they awaken, springing to life. A symbol of resurrection. Interesting note, water and light (two symbols for truth), create the wake-up alarm environment for seeds.Amazing #3 – A seed contains the stamp of divinity. Scientist know what makes up the seed, (the chemical processes, the genetic material), but they can’t get their own to work. That’s the life quality. The spark of God. It can only be illustrated and imitated but never has been duplicated.

Amazing #4 – They get there. They hide in fruit, ride the breezes, float on water, stick to fur or in my case, come in packages of 500 mg for $1.69. But they sure do get around. They were designed that way by the God of all creation who does global things greatly.
Amazing #5 – Seeds are prolific multipliers. Normally, one seed will produce one plant, bearing much fruit or flowers. Each fruit and flowers has more seed. Some even have hundreds. This is multiplicity on a scale that boggles the mind.

Amazing #6 – Versatility. Seeds are used for more than growing. Some are ground, pressed, baked or boiled as food. Some seeds are valued for their exotic flavor. They are even used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. God put all of that into seeds. Awesome.
Amazing #7 – Greatest of all, the concept of the seed is used symbolically in Scripture. It is used for: Children and generations – (Gen.12:7). Faith – Mat. 17:20. Christians – Mat. 13:38. The Holy Spirit – I Jn. 3:29. The Word – I Pet. 1:23. Jesus Christ – Gal. 3:16.

Hope dealing through seed sowing. May God help us all to grow.
Monday, May 26, 2008
"Memoria"
The Struggle - Good and Evil, Light and Darkness, Truth and Error.
The Place - Gethsemane and Calvary
The Antagonist - Satan, aka Lucifer, Diablos, Beelzebub, the Serpent, the Dragon, the Accuser, the Wicked One, the Prince of the Power of the Air. He was a liar and a murderer from the beginning who sought to dominate the lives of men through the fear of death in order to diminish the glory of God.
The Hero - The Messiah, aka Jesus, Emanuel, Savior, Lord, Deliverer, the Lamb of God, the Great Shepherd, the Way, the Truth, the Life, the Bread of Heaven, Justifier, Redeemer, Teacher, the Light of the World, the Fullness of God, the King, the Word, Counsellor, Creator, Majesty and on and on. Suffice it to say He was God in the flesh, who came to do what we could not.
The Battle - On the cross of Calvary, amongst the curses and the flies, naked and exposed before a mocking crowd, thirsty between two thieves, a betrayed, beaten, and whipped Christ did the unthinkable - He died.
The Victory - The Devil never saw it coming. Such self-deprecating strategy was beyond the mind of Satan. If the Devil would've figured it out, he never would have crucified the Lord. Jesus died to get to Satan's domain, bring him under control and open a way for His followers. Then He did the incredible - He Arose.
And He lives for evermore.
"King of my life, I crown thee now
Thine shall the glory be
Lest I forget thy thorn crossed brow
Lead me to Calvary
Lest I forget Gethsemane,
Lest I forget Thine agony;
Lest I forget Thy love for me,
Lead me to Calvary."
If everybody loves a hero, they ought to love Jesus Christ.
"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God (Heb 12:2)."
Thanks Again Jackson
Thank God for Richard Wiggins, the Minister of this great work. He has the heart of a soul-winner and ambition for God's glory. Great things will come out of his dedication and vision.
So many members blessed me with tokens of love. Sister McRae, for her wonderful help. The Longstreets, Woods, and Ellis families for Crawdads, Golf, Iron-Man and Red Velvet Cake. Brother Wilson is a happy preacher.
"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil. 1:6)."
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
The Divine Family
The word Family is a special word with special meaning. It is powerful in its descriptiveness and dynamic in application.
It is primarily used to describe the relationship of a group of people. Normally it conveys togetherness, covenant and a sense of belonging. To say one is a member of a family is to say that one is part of a larger whole. Every culture, age and race has some equivalent understanding of family. Whether the word is house, clan, blood or kin, family conveys an almost spiritual commitment and connection.
Paul says that God is the Father (Eph. 3:14). Jesus is called our brother (Heb. 2:11). The Holy Spirit is our adoption agency (Rom. 8:15). We are called children of God and joint-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:15-17). We are called the family of God (Gal. 6:10).
Thank God through Jesus Christ for the Family of God. We all can belong to the greatest, most meaningful family that there is.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Divine Help versus Self Help
eternity.Self-help has been a hot topic for the past century. Samuel Smiles published ‘Self-Help’ in 1859 with the opening statement “Heaven helps them that help themselves.” That statement was actually a paraphrased quote from Benjamin Franklin’s, ‘Poor Richards Almanac’ of 1733-1758.
The movement gained momentum in 1936, with the entrance of the famous book ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’ by Dale Carnegie. Presently there are countless books, video and audio resources, groups, lectures, seminars, retreats, etc. Some sources are legitimately helpful while some rely on mysticism and superstition.
While this blog moment is not meant to deride selfhelpology (or is it selfhelpdom), it must be understood that no one can help us like the Divine Helper. I read many sources and works in the Self-help genre, but all pale in comparison to what God says. Truth be told, the best of the self-help works really are regurgitated, modernized principles borrowed from God in the first place.
One of the greatest statements of self-help in scripture, therefore the world, is found in James 4:10. “Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Also in I Peter 5:6, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time.” This is a repeated theme in scripture. It is illustrated in real life stories as well as pointedly admonished. It works. The way to get up is to go down, the way to get more is to give it up. Humility is the key because it resembles the character of Jesus Christ.
Humility has a number of demonstrations, but all of them lead to exaltation.
Humility means obedience. That will exalt you.
Humility means worship. That will exalt you.
Humility means service. That will exalt you.
Humility means compassion. That will exalt you.
Humility means carefulness. That will exalt you.
Humility means sacrifice. That will exalt you.
Divine help is paradoxical. The best way to help the self is to get the self out of the way. Denying self and embracing the person, character and Lordship of Jesus Christ is the best thing you can do for continued, meaningful, Godly success.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
A.D. Building Demolished
Monday, April 28, 2008
Destiny Matters
Brother David Jones, Minister of the Schrader Lane Church of Christ, in Nashville Tennessee is our guest preacher for our Spring Revival. It's only Monday, but I'm hyped by his message.Blogger Been Busy
Spent a few days in Myrtle Beach with the fam. Had a good time with the Wilson party-of-five. Nice hotel, great scenery and a lot of things to do.A highlight of the trip was our stop in Durham NC. We dropped in to see our friends at the Southside Church of Christ and had a blast. William Stephens and the congregation treated us so nice it made me blush.
Played golf with the S.S. crew and the star of the show was Brian Moss, aka - Big Little. He spanked that ball like he was playing for money. I didn't stand a chance. He was an inspiration. I did tie Brother Stephens though, but he had a bad game against my regular. Oh yeah, Brother Matthis was there too...................
Thanks again Durham. I thank God you're only an eight hour drive away.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Growing Conditions
It's sowing time!!! Time to till the soil, fertilize it, smooth it out and drop some seeds. Ohhh, I can't wait to start growing some veggies. Yet wait I must.Even though it's springtime, it is still too cold. The day temps may get up to fifty or so, but the nights drop down to the low thirties. Not good for new growth. Needs to get a little warmer for the conditions to be right for growth. (That's why the front room of my house looks like a plant nursery.)
The same thing works in life as well. Growth is a response to the righ
t conditions. The environment can excel, retard or impede one's development. For instance, tomato plants will still grow through a touch of frost, but it will struggle through the season and produce a few small tomatoes. Best to wait till the end of May.
My veggies need nutritious soil, moderate warmth, 6-8 hours of sunlight and balanced moisture. If the seed meets up with these conditions it responds by growing. It's not magic, not even science, it's designed that way by God, the Original Grower.
In like manner our lives grow in response to the right conditions. Physically, you need healthiness, cleanliness, rest and security. Mentally, you need insight, positivity, challenges and relaxation. Emotionally, you need acceptance, association and appreciation. Spiritually you need God.
Often, we want to force growth. We read 'how to' books, and listen to accomplished people to do what they do or do what they tell us. But the fact is, you can't make something grow, you can only place it in the right environment.
I wish preaching could make my veggies grow. If so, I would put in a good three hours a day, screaming and hollering in the back. But preaching doesn't help veggies. It barely helps... well, never-mind.
"I planted, Appollos watered; but God gave the increase (I Cor. 3:6)."
"For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessings from God (Heb. 6:7)."
Monday, March 31, 2008
64th National Lectureship in Alabama Recap
Holla at me. Let me know what I missed.
Hamilton went. Said he enjoyed it. But he enjoys any reason to get out of town. So who else?
Saturday, March 29, 2008
"We Hope Because He Lives"
Let us speak of the Resurrection. (I know, I know!!! Sorry. Easter came too early for me this year.)Paul says in I Corinthians 15:9, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.”
This statement is part of a passionate apology to the church at Corinth concerning an embarrassingly illogical false teaching. Some of the faith had dared put forth that there was no such thing as the resurrection from the dead. Paul lays out many arguments against that false teaching throughout this chapter, but the first argument resonates in my heart.
He basically says that if there is no resurrection, then what are we doing here? In fact, who are we anyway? Resurrection is key, the central theme of our beliefs. Without it life is limited to the here and now, hustle and bustle, ups and downs of a meaningless, hopeless, temporary existence. If this is all we have to look forward to, then we are most miserable.
The Resurrection is so integral, that if it did not happen, then all teaching of Scripture and all belief in Jesus becomes vain. He is Lord of all because He conquered all. If He was not resurrected then He did not overcome death, hell and the grave. He would then be Lord of some and therefore a great liar, and we the greatest of fools. Every Christ-centered hope, doctrine and belief would cave in without Him rising from the grave.
Paul says, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” Housed within this logical equation is a great statement of faith. Conversely it says, “We are not at all miserable because we have hope in Christ beyond this life.” This means that present circumstances are not indicative of future possibilities. Believers have a tiptoe expectancy of the future. In this life and after, we believe that better things are coming.
We groan sometimes but not miserably. We cry sometimes but not despondently. We suffer sometimes but not hopelessly. We believe in better days, and happier times because of the Lord we serve. He rose from the dead to let us know there’s a good ending to this story.

“Because he lives, I can face tomorrow
Because he lives, all fear is gone
Because I know, who holds the future.
And life is worth the living just because He lives”
"Hopedealing"
Monday, March 17, 2008
64th National Lectureship Speakers and Workshops
The Lectureship is just a few days away. The line up of speakers and workshops promises to be explosively edifying. I'm sorry I will miss it. For those who are going, make sure you register and have a good time. Those who are not going, this is what you will miss.
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Great Confession
"I believe that Jesus is the Christ, the son of the living God."Undoubtedly, the greatest words that mortal tongue could utter. Sweeter than the 'Mama' of tender infancy. Weightier than the 'I dos' of holy matrimony. To confess Jesus as Christ, to recognize His Lordship, is the singular greatest truth one can admit. Deciding to follow him as Lord is the best, the most important decision one can make.
The word CONFESS, is a compound word meaning to speak (-fess) along with (con-). Confessing that Christ is Lord is to speak alongside God. It is to agree with God about the position of His son. Awesome.
Confession also carries with it a sense of grudging admittance. An almost embarrassing compliance made under duress. Like what is said in repentance from sin or what is given to the police after an interrogation.
I think this comes in to play when one acknowledges that Jesus is Lord.
Second, it recognizes the singular act of dying for our sins. He became Lord uncontested after the resurrection. The rising from the grave is directly connected to the sacrifice on the cross. That sacrifice was for the sins of the entire world. He took the fatal beating that each of us deserved. It makes sense then, that we feel guilt in the admittance of His Lordship. It shows respect for the price paid for His throne.
Regardless, we should hold fast that true confession. Lordship makes life make sense. Submitting to His authority is not giving up anything; it is gaining everything.
"More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ (Phil. 3:8)."
Friday, March 7, 2008
The Jigsawed Life

During the Christmas Holidays I enjoyed one of my favorite hobbies – Jigsaw Puzzles!!! I’m not sure why I like them so much. I think it has something to do with my incredible ability to make sense out of chaos, or bringing the hard to see out into the open. (Can I get an Amen?)
One thing I know, when those different pieces come together and create an image, I get happy. Endorphins are flowing and the mind is at peace. It’s a unique thrill to identify and organize 1500 little pieces to make one singular, unified, beautiful image.
It reminds me of life. Each of us has the goal of bringing all of the pieces of our lives together into the desired image. You'd love to just do it all at once, but time, trial and error, experience and such like, must have their place.
Look at these similarities between life and jigsaw puzzles.
1. You need patience, lots of patience in both.
2. The more pieces, the more time and effort.
3. Everybody doesn’t get into puzzles.
4. It helps to have a semblance of the finished product in front of you.
5. Some pieces you can’t figure out, but others are pretty obvious as to where they go. Like borders, grass, sky, etc.
6. The mystery pieces become plain towards the end.
7. Some may want to help and can be of great aid.
8. Some may think they want to help, but give up saying, “This just ain’t my thing.”
9. Watch out for kids! Dominic likes to “make” the pieces fit.
10. Don’t lose any pieces. That’s very frustrating at the end. But it doesn’t destroy or ruin the picture.
11. Sometimes it is overwhelming when you get stuck.
12. But it is a great feeling when the pieces fall into place.
13. You’d be surprised how walking away, doing something else or taking a nap will help you to see a connection hiding in plain sight.
14. Friends and family are amazed and complementary of your rewarded patience.
I hope you see it.
I hope it hopes you.
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure (I John 3:1-3).”
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Sojourner Defined
Isabella Baumfree, a.k.a. Sojourner Truth was born into slavery around 1797 in Upstate New York. She became a famous Abolitionist and Women’s Rights Activist. She was a freedom fighter, speaker, writer and politician. She even recruited and travelled with Black soldiers during the Civil War. Her story is one of pain and sorrow leading to purpose and glory. Her early life included slavery, beatings, rape and the indescribable pain of watching your children sold off to other owners. Her later years were focused on freedom as an influential abolitionist. This victory over tribulation is evident when you consider the people she had dealings with in her purpose; Abraham Lincoln, Susan B. Anthony, Ulysses S. Grant, and Fredrick Douglas.
This is an excerpt of her famous speech made at a women’s Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio in 1851. It became known as the “Ain’t I A Woman” speech because of the refrain.
“Well, children, where there is so much racket there must be something out of kilter. I think that 'twixt the Negroes of the South and the women at the North, all talking about rights, the white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what's all this here talking about?
That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain't I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm! I have ploughed and planted, and gathered into barns, and no man could head me! And ain't I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man - when I could get it - and bear the lash as well! And ain't I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain't I a woman?
Then they talk about this thing in the head; what's this they call it? [member of audience whispers, "intellect"] That's it, honey. What's that got to do with women's rights or Negroes' rights? If my cup won't hold but a pint, and yours holds a quart, wouldn't you be mean not to let me have my little half measure full?
Then that little man in black there, he says women can't have as much rights as men, 'cause Christ wasn't a woman! Where did your Christ come from? Where did Christ come from? From God and a woman! Man had nothing to do with Him.If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back, and get it right side up again! And now they is asking to do it. The men better let them.
Obliged to you for hearing me, and now old Sojourner ain't got nothing more to say.”
Would to God that we all could deal with life so victoriously. She did more than ‘just get over it’. She chopped it up, packed it down and traded it in. Pain and sorrow are often prerequisites to destiny.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Friday, February 15, 2008
Nat Turner – The Black Sheep of Black History
Nat Turner’s story is a vital part of the Freedom Saga. No, I doubt there will be any holidays, stamps or highways named after him, but his story must be heard. Trust me, if the enemies of freedom could erase any part of the struggle, they would choose this one. In fact, it wasn’t till I was an adult that I heard about Nat, the ‘property’ of Samuel Turner.He was an intelligent, ultra-religious and driven young man. One of the few slaves who could read, Nat was said to have spent long hours reading the Bible. He would often have visions that he believed were from God. Once, after running away and hiding in the woods for a month, he returned to his master after having such a vision. These visions, coupled with atmospheric phenomenon, during the dark ages of America, birthed the destiny of Nat Turner.

The reason his story is so shaded and controversial is that he fought back. Turner led the greatest or most horrific, (depending on which side of freedom you stand) slave revolt in American History. In August of 1831, for 48 hours in South Hampton Virginia, Nat and a group of about 50 other slaves and freed blacks, methodically and quietly killed 57 white men, women and children.
After a militia of slaveholders ended the rebellion, Nat was tried, convicted, hung and then flayed, quartered and beheaded. 58 men suspected of involvement were also hung. In months to come, an estimated 200 slaves were beaten, hung and mutilated by angry mobs of whites. The abolitionist movement was halted in that area, as whites became polarized concerning slavery.
Nat’s legacy undeniably removes the myth that slaves happily embraced their subservient state.http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/black_voices/voices_display.cfm?id=20
Today, Nat’s legacy is on trial. Some hail him hero, others call him lunatic.
Some call him freedom fighter; others call him blood thirsty opportunist. I say that he is the logical result of the cruel, heinous, diabolical, dehumanizing crime of slavery. Hate begets hate. Radical situations produce radicalness.
I call him, inevitable.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Making Love or Love Making (Valentine's Special)
I bet I have your attention now. Sex does that. Ice cream, shaving cream and chewing gum commercials use it, why not me. (I ought to have at least 30 replies on this one)Actually I’m not talking about sex. I’m really talking about love. Real love. Not that hush puppy, mushy, gushy play-play love, but real love. The love that originates from God is not the same as what passes for love down here.
One of the most blaring examples is to call sex, love making. I’m not even talking abou
t illegitimate sex; I mean the divinely authorized sexual activity between a husband and wife. Having sex is not the same as making love. Though sex makes your head swoon and your heart palpitate don’t confuse it with love. Love making takes a whole lot more than that.To equate sex with love exalts the temporary, carnal, human experience to the heights of divine character. It is symptomatic of the self-seeking, self-pleasing spirit that rules the hearts of the unregenerate man. God desires to raise us to His level, we try to bring Him down to ours.
Here’s my list of reasons why sex (marital) should not be called making love. I’ll start it you finish it. Blog away.

1. Real love is not conditioned on the “mood”.
2. Sex requires chemicals, love requires spirit.
3. You must eventually stop having sex (at some point), but love must continue.
4. The Bible calls it due benevolence or “knowing”.
5. Love is what your children ought to see, not sex.
6. The term was paraded and applauded by hippies.
7. You have to study the character of God to create love.
8. You give much more than your body to make love.

9. Making real love is not about performance but selfless sacrifice.
10. Loving your enemies ain’t sexy.
11. Sex can make a baby, but it can’t raise one.
12. Eros love is not mentioned in Scripture.
13. Sex is episodic, but love is eternal.
14. Sex doesn’t always go right, but love never fails.
15. Proof of love doesn’t come during the honeymoon but after surviving some marital crisis.
16. Sex will put you to sleep, but love will send you to the cross.

17. Sensuality is physical, love is spiritual.
18. Physical disability, even paralysis, is no hindrance to real love.
19. You can’t fake love (not for long).
20. …..
Friday, February 8, 2008
Vocabulationistic Frustrations

Earlier tonight my heart was broken when told, rather rudely, that edificatious was not a word. While fruitlessly searching for justification, I found this site on Meriam-Webster's online Dictionary. Thought it was funny since I make up so many words. Enjoy.
Top Ten Made-up Words
ginormous (adj): bigger than gigantic and bigger than enormous
confuzzled (adj): confused and puzzled at the same time
woot (interj): an exclamation of joy or excitement
chillax (v): chill out/relax, hang out with friends
cognitive displaysia (n): the feeling you have before you even leave the house that you are going to forget something and not remember it until you're on the highway
gription (n): the purchase gained by friction: "My car needs new tires because the old ones have lost their gription."
phonecrastinate (v): to put off answering the phone until caller ID displays the incoming name and number
slickery (adj): having a surface that is wet and icy
snirt (n): snow that is dirty, often seen by the side of roads and parking lots that have been plowed
lingweenie (n): a person incapable of producing neologisms
Popular Culture
ESPN-onage (n): secretly viewing an all-sports network when your wife leaves the room
polkadodge (n): the pseudo dance when two people attempt to pass each other, each moving in the same direction
scrax (n): the waxy coating that must be scratched off an instant lottery ticket
LANGUAGE
dunandunate (v): to overuse a word or phrase that has been recently added to one's vocabulary
lexpionage (n): the sleuthing of new words and phrases
whinese (n): a language spoken by children or spouses on long road trips
WEATHER
slush turtle (n): the snow that collects on your mud flap
spinter (n): the season between winter and spring where everything is drowning in a slush/mud mixture
sprummer (n): when spring and summer can't decide which is going to come first—hot one day, cold the next
PEOPLE
headset jockey (n): a telephone call center worker at the other end of a toll-free number
knitpicker (n): a person who selects your knitted sweaters. Beware the Christmas knitpicker or the put-the-family-in-the-same-sweater-for-the-photo knitpicker.
stealth-geek (n): one that hides nerdy interests while maintaining a normal outward appearance
ANATOMY
fumb (n): the large toe
jimberjaw (n): a protrusive chin
wibble (n): a trembling of the lower lip just shy of actually crying
MENTAL & PHYSICAL CONDITIONS
asphinxiation (n): when you are sick to death of unanswerable riddles
museum head (n): being mentally exhausted, and unable to take in anything more; usu. follows after a full day at the museum
precuperate (v): prepare for the possibility of being ill
TECHNOLOGY & THE INTERNET
shanghaIM (v): Instant Messaging somebody who's in the process of IM-ing somebody else, causing them to inadvertently type (and possibly send) their message to you
vidiot (n): one inept at programming a VCR
wurfing (v): the act of surfing the Internet at work and rationalizing that it is for work purposes
TRANSPORTATION
detroitus (n): car parts found alongside the highway
(n): when two or more immobile vehicles are parked next to each other
pregreening (v): the tendency to creep forward while waiting for a red light to change
FOOD
onionate (v): to overwhelm with post-dining breath
smushables (n): the groceries that must be packed at the top of the bag or separately to avoid being mangled by the time you get home
spatulate (v): remove cake batter or other substances from the side of a mixing bowl with a spatula
MISCELLANEOUS
dringle (n): the ring-shaped stain on wood caused by condensation from a glass of liquid
espacular (adj): especially spectacular
furgle (v): to feel in a pocket or purse for a small object such as a coin or key
hoyle (n): the point at which a genius transcends our reality and becomes a madman
nudenda (n): a nudist's unhidden agenda
optotoxical (adj): of or pertaining to poisonous looks that could kill, esp. from a spouse
parrotise (n): a haven for exotic birds, esp. green ones
quackmire (n): muddy edges of a duck pond
sinspire (v): to compel one to be creatively wicked
sprog (v): to go faster than a jog but slower than a sprint
Announcing Kingsverse Blogspot
Hear Ye, Hear Ye!!!
This is the Kings Church of Christ’s poetic exposition
Check out the site and you could be in the next position
To use your poetic giftedness to empower the world, your sisters, and your brothers
With glory to God, fulfillment to self, and inspirational blessings to others
If you’re not a poet you can check it out and leave a comment too
Kings Verse is currently featuring
Several Kings poets
And soon to be featuring YOU!!!
--Jamila Lyiscott
Kingsverse Administrator
Parade Parallels
unds and sights were amazing. One million plus fans packed in all along Broadway Avenue, paper of all sizes flying everywhere, with deafening cheers for everything and everybody. Oh yeah, and the Super Bowl Champion Giants. That was basically it at the parade. My son David and I had a good time.Of course being who I am and doing what I do, I gained some spiritual insight through the physical occurrences of that day. I saw a parallel of fans in a parade to Christians and worship. The applause of regular Joes in adoration of their heroes, their champions, is easily analogous to Christians praising, lauding and applauding the Savior.
First, I was reminded that quiet worship makes absolutely no sense. I’m not talking about funerals or private prayers, etc. I’m talking about the celebration that happens when the fans of Christ come together. When I saw the supposed millions of New Yorkers cheering their champs, I thought of worship. There was vibrancy, an electric pulse throughout the crowd. It was cold but everybody was hyped about the Giants. They were so excited they cheered for policemen, firemen, street sweepers, busses, even toilet paper flying through the air. Why? Because they recognized the accomplishment of a hometown football team. They celebrated the winning of a title and a trophy.
How then can we be quiet for the Christ? After giving up a glorious throne, living a impoverished but perfect life, He died on a cross for our sins. And that with no halftime!! How can we silently and somberly sing sad songs for the Savior? I am not speaking of the extreme, mindless, disorder of charismatic chaos, but praise is like a parade, not a funeral.Second, you could tell something was coming by the noise of the crowd. There was a lot of waiting time, moments when nothing was happening. In fact, we were around the corner of the main street, so we were blind to the process. But the noise of the crowd let us know when something was happening. It flowed up the canyon of heroes like a living thing. I, who could not see, was alerted by those who could see, that the champions were coming. So I got my camera ready.
In like manner, the church has a unique position in salvation. The noise we make over the coming King should prepare the world for action. A world, off the path, blind to the light, distracted by their personal agendas, should hear our noise and know that Jesus is near. They, who cannot see, should be enlightened by the praises of those who can see, that the Champ is coming. Get your life ready.
Third, I was taking pictures of heroes taking pictures of me. Not me personally, but you know what I mean. The Superbowl champs were more focused on filming our celebration than being filmed themselves. It reminded me that in worship, we are on display. Not to the world, the church or angels, but primarily God. He pays attention to our worship. He adores our praise. We think He is on stage, but in actuality, He is the audience judging our performance. I wonder if He ever falls asleep or boos a lackluster effort. Yeah I know, He never sleeps or slumbers, but you get my point.“But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt thou compass him as with a shield (Ps. 5:11-12).”
“O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph. For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth. He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet (Ps. 47:1-3).”
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
64th Annual National Lectureship for the Churches of Christ
March 24th-27th, 2008 in Birmingham, Alabama. Sunday, February 3, 2008
Super Bowl Champs New York Giants
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHSuper Bowl Champs
Friday, February 1, 2008
Fredrick Douglas
Douglas is my favorite champion among the great heroes of the movement. His story strikes a resounding chord in my heart, because he went from slave to abolitionist. He broke out of his bonds and then came back for those left behind. Sounds familiar.This would go on for days until Fredrick learned the entire alphabet. Brilliant. Even today, many don't know how to take a loss in order to win. He went from ignorant slave, to educated slave, to runaway educated slave, to prolific writer, famous orator, charasmatic leader, and Ambassador of the United States. All from stealing ABC's. He did more with a stolen education than many of us do with free.
"Those who profess to favor freedom and yet depreciate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground, they want rain without thunder and lightning. They want the ocean without the roar of its many waters."Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Memories of the A. D. Building
As I get older, memories become more precious to me. That may be because I am approaching the time when there is more behind than in front of me. When I saw the pics of this week’s disaster, I felt like an old friend had died. Sounds dramatic I know, but it’s true. Though inanimate in nature, the Administration Building was the nexus of very important and memorable events. Some of which helped to define and shape who I am today. At the Jack Evans Administration Building;
I struggled hard to learn Greek (and English for that matter).
Practiced with the Accapella Chorus, Gospel Quality, Celestials, Restoration and 2 consecutive Summer Tours.Wrote Flying Home, Kiss Away the Pain, Died For All, Keeping the Dream Alive, Psalm 13 and Hear My Cry. (There was a piano in one of the rooms.)
Met with G. Lee as the Ambassador Club President.Got some funds from President Evans during fiscal hardship.
Argued often with fellow Bible students over issues that still haven’t come up in over 15 years of relevant ministry. Go figure.
Hashed out solutions for school bill with Brother Howie.Got academic detention from Brother Foster for wrong place wrong time incident. Of course I was innocent. It was all politically motivated. This is my blog after all.
Had a three way argument with Rudy and Robert. Funny now, but not then.Preached for first time and broke out into uncontrollable tears during Mission Study.
Got in trouble with Chief for giggling at his “Bursting gillies” remark during security detail. (Don't ask)
“Southwestern I will remember…”
Do you have any memories to share?
Monday, January 28, 2008
Open Letter To SWCC Alumnus, Former Students and Friends
January 27, 2008
Re: An Open Letter to all SwCC Alumni, Former Students and Friends
Dear Alumnus:
As you may be aware, the campus of our alma mater experienced a devastating fire early this morning. Fire engulfed the Jack Evans, Sr. Administration Building and the adjacent Science Building, which are now total losses. The offices of senior administrators and their staffs were housed in the Evans Administration Building, many of whom had worked there for several years. In addition to certain campus files and records, they have lost countless personal belongings, school artifacts and valuable resource information which cannot be replaced.
The fire destroyed the newly renovated Ben Foster Jr. Memorial Auditorium, which comprised most of the second floor of the building. Countless hours of manual labor and thousands of dollars were spent into restoring the “small auditorium” to its former glory in honor of a very special student. The loss of the old Science Building displaces the Student Support Services Program and many additional stored records were lost. All that remains of the former Evans Administration Building are the four skeletal walls of its outer core.
Having seen it with my own eyes, I can assure you that it is a shockingly overwhelming site. Late this afternoon, I stood with students, faculty and alumni with our mouths open totally taken aback by the horrific site of what had been a staple on our campus since its inception. It is difficult to put into perspective the impact this fire will have on the daily operation of the college as that will be determined in coming days and weeks. The Evans Administration Building was many things to many people providing classroom space, daily chapel services, seminars during the annual Lectureship, gospel meetings, and so much more.
The good news is that no lives were lost and the fire was contained to its immediate site not impacting a nearby faculty residence or the other buildings around the circle. While this is a devastating moment in the history of our beloved school, I certainly believe that it can serve as a defining moment for the Alumni Association and her members.
I was able to visit with Dr. Evans this afternoon regarding what action can be taken to assist the administration’s efforts at this time. Before anything significant can be done, Dr. Evans must wait for the report from the fire marshal and the insurance adjuster. At that time, he will issue a formal statement unveiling any building plans in which we might participate individually and collectively.
As we await direction from Dr. Evans, we must be prayerful and thoughtful about our commitment to our college. While the buildings stand in ruins, our precious memories are alive and well. The fire may have burned the buildings, but I pray that it will ignite our sprits toward a renewed energy and love for our dear school.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.” I trust that we will be the bright stars who let our light shine upon the campus for the world to see. No matter what additional organizations respond to the call for help – or which ones do not – the alumni have a unique opportunity and responsibility to assist however we can.
I have attached pictures from the site in order for you to understand the significance of the fire. The apostle Paul tells us in Romans 8:28 that “all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.” Southwestern has certainly served His purpose through the years and even this temporary setback will be used for good.
Please stand ready to assist the college when the call for help is made. Southwestern deserves nothing less.
“When I grow too old to dream, Southwestern I will remember…”
Sincerely,
Natesha Wyrick Cathey
President, National Alumni Association of Southwestern Christian College
Cc: Dr. Jack Evans, Sr.
President, Southwestern Christian College
Darryl Cheeks
Chairman, Southwestern Christian College Board of Trustees
PO Box 10 Terrell, TX 75160 (972)524-3341 ext. 156
Southwestern Christian College Fire Pictures




To you I'll be true
And through the years
That come and go
I'll think of you in my heart.
Update January 29
A video recording of the fire and aftermath can be seen at http://www.gospelitv.com/


















