tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3858767789906197682024-03-14T04:00:41.111-04:00ShepastorA blog for female clergy to learn from, lift and encourage one another. Also a place to share resources and insights.Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.comBlogger512125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-65505916908361642882023-11-08T18:27:00.000-05:002023-11-08T18:27:10.338-05:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"> Shepastor: “More Than a Cover-Up…”</h1><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjybP6mSPyWCw62GbEp-A76lKOr1Zmk2QImKy4eIXXLxztVEp_n5EwMC4TW2-JqVIrqfuaM5MRV5NLn8BApI9Bin_jCvI4rN1PcT04pjpDPFOQQhFx5x38EGHdmO4p8SLDN6oqM8vjCjv4nNiXI2HZrmx3cnONL1zx0cQmdml09hHiegdzMgX-meOMGQ/s1000/Chipping%20Paint.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjybP6mSPyWCw62GbEp-A76lKOr1Zmk2QImKy4eIXXLxztVEp_n5EwMC4TW2-JqVIrqfuaM5MRV5NLn8BApI9Bin_jCvI4rN1PcT04pjpDPFOQQhFx5x38EGHdmO4p8SLDN6oqM8vjCjv4nNiXI2HZrmx3cnONL1zx0cQmdml09hHiegdzMgX-meOMGQ/w407-h271/Chipping%20Paint.jpeg" width="407" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">17 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Therefore,
if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:<sup>[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%205:16-18&version=NIV#fen-NIV-28895a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</sup> The old has gone, the new is here!</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> NIV<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">17 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Therefore
if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away;
behold, all things are become new.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> KJV<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It’s probably been over a year, or so, since I have
written my <i>Shepastor Blog.</i> It has been a season of abundance in terms of
ministry opportunities, education, civil engagement, and LIFE – TO GOD BE THE
GLORY!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Today, however, I was especially inspired to share
this message. May it be a blessing somehow…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div style="text-align: right;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">This morning as I looked out of the window, facing the
back of houses on the next street over, I noticed men on very tall ladders,
chipping away at old paint, in preparation, it appeared to repaint the house.
While that may not sound unusual, the house is HUGE! The tools they were using
did not look in anyway elaborate. They were using small tools and little by
little, chipping away at the old paint. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOlHJrfylqkA0J3BlznV5tBMft_2CldGGLD__pcIiWeonYHGOsj6PbSRv7KCEk1NQ5qL7iM9b2Eh8WTG1_efdRowqcEBy-AfOeXrs5CfiH1KGcYZy_APtRgyDeT_Cd2FQqGxqMb5zcihBTe5nz1_2v3P0g_-KqCcihWLVGyvRd-a-ccbXxaE02Z4DEH4/s1000/Chipped%20paint%20on%20a%20house.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOlHJrfylqkA0J3BlznV5tBMft_2CldGGLD__pcIiWeonYHGOsj6PbSRv7KCEk1NQ5qL7iM9b2Eh8WTG1_efdRowqcEBy-AfOeXrs5CfiH1KGcYZy_APtRgyDeT_Cd2FQqGxqMb5zcihBTe5nz1_2v3P0g_-KqCcihWLVGyvRd-a-ccbXxaE02Z4DEH4/w399-h265/Chipped%20paint%20on%20a%20house.jpeg" width="399" /></a></div></span></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"></span></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I said to myself, “My goodness, that’s A LOT OF
WORK!!!” As I watched them <br /> diligently working, I marveled at their persistence.
Watching them, I also thought about a commercial that has been playing, featuring
a “bathroom makeover” service. Usually, they just show workers placing a tub cover
over an old tub and then they show the beautiful new paneling.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgF8oig1Nwtvcmst4koPjyrTOSlZ5r43b4ZGtQfDIblScNlab0x1EixWKxC-wirfmUdz1424P5w1t9do0nSMoMzWeYizkePMTkwhdHkF3sMHUVUqB_uXClV-kwItqPBJpnU12fPFQyxddo63-T4VcdLXtPw3OafvR_T0POmIKlEgHMvqdipf4NCM9gWI/s1000/Old%20Tub%20remodel.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgF8oig1Nwtvcmst4koPjyrTOSlZ5r43b4ZGtQfDIblScNlab0x1EixWKxC-wirfmUdz1424P5w1t9do0nSMoMzWeYizkePMTkwhdHkF3sMHUVUqB_uXClV-kwItqPBJpnU12fPFQyxddo63-T4VcdLXtPw3OafvR_T0POmIKlEgHMvqdipf4NCM9gWI/s320/Old%20Tub%20remodel.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In the commercial yesterday, however, they showed a
bit more. They featured portions of the old paneling that was dirty, moldy,
deteriorating, and quite disgusting! They showed how the service workers
carefully removed the damaged areas, cleaned it out and then prepared the bath
area for the “new makeover.”<o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Considering all of these things, I was inspired,
moved, and drawn to the verse,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">17 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Therefore,
if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:<sup>[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%205:16-18&version=NIV#fen-NIV-28895a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</sup> The old has gone, the new is here!</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> NIV<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When we receive Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, Jesus
does so much more than simply a “cover-up.” He makes us “new!” Yes, we still
have areas in our lives where things get messy, proverbial dirt and mold may
creep in, but his blood continues, through faith to wash us clean. We are in
the “perfecting process.” Through Christ, the “old” no longer has dominion over
us. The decay, stench, and sting of death is no longer our destiny. Jesus “covers
us” and makes us new. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlm3QPD4pxXXwLJvF9GBovCS8Ain4BjpeaPmClCPpkIYcF41m_wENT72MojWSv2hyphenhyphen0mXpkLY3HrsIGXZm3jPQmhvSCuHa0jK9uFU2FSSya_lrNOiIe1V7Khfx8JcZeIfYaCW-ZWDKtkUkeiSCKCgkLacaINQKpEvHbWD6Bm0NklLKwpYAJzcW7rTB8d5k/s1000/If%20any%20man%20be%20in%20Christ%20Picture.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="709" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlm3QPD4pxXXwLJvF9GBovCS8Ain4BjpeaPmClCPpkIYcF41m_wENT72MojWSv2hyphenhyphen0mXpkLY3HrsIGXZm3jPQmhvSCuHa0jK9uFU2FSSya_lrNOiIe1V7Khfx8JcZeIfYaCW-ZWDKtkUkeiSCKCgkLacaINQKpEvHbWD6Bm0NklLKwpYAJzcW7rTB8d5k/w248-h350/If%20any%20man%20be%20in%20Christ%20Picture.jpeg" width="248" /></a></div>Just as those men worked diligently, patiently, to
chip away at the old paint on that big house, the love of God, the grace of our
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and the precious Holy Spirit, diligently,
patiently works with us – shaping us, molding us, teaching us, guiding us,
preparing us, “COVERING US,” as we learn more and more how to walk in the
newness of life! Our transformation is a process. <o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />Today, I encourage you – lift up your head. You are
NEW. Walk by faith and stop dwelling on the past – YOU ARE NEW. Allow the Lord
to complete the work in you that was begun the day you said, “YES,” to Jesus
Christ. TRUST in the strength, authority, and POWER of the blood of the lamb in
YOUR LIFE. It will take time. It will take patience. It will take work. But
keep walking forward. YOU ARE NEW!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Through Christ, God is doing more than a cover-up in
you. Through Christ, YOU ARE NEW!!! WALK, therefore, in the newness of your
life! Remember, even “new things” need tweaking!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I invite you to visit the church that I serve. Learn
more at <a href="http://www.rmgrcle.org/">www.rmgrcle.org</a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In Faith, Hope, and
Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Pastor Chris <o:p></o:p></span></p><div><br /></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-12101690615116622372022-11-23T00:10:00.000-05:002022-11-23T00:10:44.003-05:00<p> </p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 22.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Shepastor: “All is Not Lost…”</span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></sup></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jC-P1zPjHY8gwAokCur-7Khl5nQ9x3smPS2O2cGvnBU0eWT6J9vT6UyT_Xka1VlzOgYf8nbk8D3dixVqw7kdc5RZqKixPxfvhq1Kpd1cPOabsZfHRp3aeASyaXVHSs_avMpxfiAhUL7weQIWKnsKv_t4wmd-g_Rzpvw5AAke1efHSk1T8N_JKseW/s6720/shutterstock_2055565847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4880" data-original-width="6720" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jC-P1zPjHY8gwAokCur-7Khl5nQ9x3smPS2O2cGvnBU0eWT6J9vT6UyT_Xka1VlzOgYf8nbk8D3dixVqw7kdc5RZqKixPxfvhq1Kpd1cPOabsZfHRp3aeASyaXVHSs_avMpxfiAhUL7weQIWKnsKv_t4wmd-g_Rzpvw5AAke1efHSk1T8N_JKseW/s320/shutterstock_2055565847.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br />13 </i></b><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren,
concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have
no hope</span></span></i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
I Thessalonians 4:13, KJV<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Grief over the loss of loved ones during the holiday
season is not uncommon. While some are celebrating, others are mourning. Loss
of life, however, manifests in many ways. At times it feels like a dark grey
cloud is hanging over us, almost cutting off our ability to breathe. This passage
of scripture reminds us that we are not to be as those who have no hope… We
must remember, all is not lost.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Today as I sat waiting to be called into the doctor's
office for a regular checkup, I beheld a wonderful sight. An elderly couple
walked up to the receptionist desk with a bag full of gifts, a box of cookies,
and a large box of cupcakes. Immediately I exclaimed “How beautiful!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">A flood of memories washed over my mind. A bit of
nostalgia overtook me. I was reminded of a lovelier time, a time when people were
so appreciative of the hard work and dedication of others…a time of reverence,
sensitivity, and gratefulness…a time when people, in large and small ways were
internally compelled to externally spread thanksgiving and joy. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKYIMF6W9cLzL44Qq5VCjZC-yQa3aRaQ9SQmqCSkzJFT6Q8o1HDMBpLymc4TCyOBtcGI-awrWsawFofeK9ePYM3Hpey0-VII42_w6-ChEsc7PbjkECfB1mb_3QTumxXEONJnSCdhgGx4oy803wH33vkXNT3XFYtdeRjIZc4KsL53-QVBd5IsYQrSO/s5244/Cookies%20and%20cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3786" data-original-width="5244" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKYIMF6W9cLzL44Qq5VCjZC-yQa3aRaQ9SQmqCSkzJFT6Q8o1HDMBpLymc4TCyOBtcGI-awrWsawFofeK9ePYM3Hpey0-VII42_w6-ChEsc7PbjkECfB1mb_3QTumxXEONJnSCdhgGx4oy803wH33vkXNT3XFYtdeRjIZc4KsL53-QVBd5IsYQrSO/s320/Cookies%20and%20cupcakes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As I looked at that elderly couple, I thought out loud,
“How wonderful that you would bring gifts and treats to the doctor's office
today!” The wife, without hesitation said, “They all work so hard. We just
wanted them to know how much we appreciate them.” It was obvious that they were
from a different time…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This has been a difficult season. Three years of isolation,
sickness, death, and massive changes due to a world pandemic. Depression,
frustration, fear, anger, and despondency have invaded the lives of many. This
past week, several mass shootings have occurred. Senseless, brutal, and
infuriating acts of cowardice seem to abound. Our political systems are broken.
Systems of oppression, racism, and otherisms appear to be dominating our land.
Yet, in the midst of it all, we are called upon to not be as those who have no
hope.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTzQzr2lBCpKGEbKrfsN8Y0Q-KPZdjLLWrlFeaaJnzGRbI575YZec9TEZ7pRnTWkPG30H1i-SZuQhpdlvt7_CswOPJ5g4nFU2GRBOR7YC8pYhtiATFvHLfs0j5KZq3Pr78remOinam2iV6VHHqYnabySxidsDjMYcork1d0kudhwCPe5a3D1ZwXoK/s6606/shutterstock_1954427395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1166" data-original-width="6606" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTzQzr2lBCpKGEbKrfsN8Y0Q-KPZdjLLWrlFeaaJnzGRbI575YZec9TEZ7pRnTWkPG30H1i-SZuQhpdlvt7_CswOPJ5g4nFU2GRBOR7YC8pYhtiATFvHLfs0j5KZq3Pr78remOinam2iV6VHHqYnabySxidsDjMYcork1d0kudhwCPe5a3D1ZwXoK/w480-h112/shutterstock_1954427395.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">We have within us the power to shine light in the midst
of darkness. We have within us the authority to take back the territory that
the enemy of our souls has sought to affix himself within. Like that elderly
couple that made a decision to bring some joy, love, and kindness into a space
that so often is viewed as obligatory, we too can embody a message of hope, a
symbol of love, and a spirit of gratitude to our spheres of influence.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTraLb6ptoqA-97jJkJ2g66bvrD4GbhW889B-WWm4fumbV-MbrDtSCaFscIfO3Xy7FsDkc6VhQf6-x-Hzkw_XQVIlKEldoSoaKay2CdyrL0NWVPDjeWjX4VhObeBIvlc1_PZI3fnXQm9_ChXYvx2LRfHZYU7fmBjLrk2Fbfnw--2ECoXzKUCWJVzrY/s8453/Make%20a%20difference.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2820" data-original-width="8453" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTraLb6ptoqA-97jJkJ2g66bvrD4GbhW889B-WWm4fumbV-MbrDtSCaFscIfO3Xy7FsDkc6VhQf6-x-Hzkw_XQVIlKEldoSoaKay2CdyrL0NWVPDjeWjX4VhObeBIvlc1_PZI3fnXQm9_ChXYvx2LRfHZYU7fmBjLrk2Fbfnw--2ECoXzKUCWJVzrY/w542-h188/Make%20a%20difference.jpg" width="542" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">While cupcakes and cookies cannot wash away the pain
and suffering inflicted by death, or by wicked and evil beings, our labor of
love and our determination to show up with beauty can break through the fog. We
can offer the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit
of heaviness.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCeD_yqX9Qylgb4LkoAG2b4I_YKaDHsM6d1Dq2yw_gtSha6S9pgZhlag4HQOCTJo1Co40G4Ij8dH-LumwsE4sUXwC5VkuxFg0j9Y3W_FkDQjcILO37I7QRaG3f3JUFeRRm32oJchVaPcl_OuizpuQ5N4lBVvEX-Nzl2UqHOlSiRJfuhXqiBDD-Z0ro/s5568/Black%20Couple%20mourning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3712" data-original-width="5568" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCeD_yqX9Qylgb4LkoAG2b4I_YKaDHsM6d1Dq2yw_gtSha6S9pgZhlag4HQOCTJo1Co40G4Ij8dH-LumwsE4sUXwC5VkuxFg0j9Y3W_FkDQjcILO37I7QRaG3f3JUFeRRm32oJchVaPcl_OuizpuQ5N4lBVvEX-Nzl2UqHOlSiRJfuhXqiBDD-Z0ro/s320/Black%20Couple%20mourning.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As we prepare in America to celebrate the day of Thanksgiving,
may our gratitude be coupled with a determination to give love, which according
to God’s holy Word is the more excellent way. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">May the Lord bless you and keep you, may he make his
face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you, may he lift up the light of
his countenance upon you, and give you peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Remember,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>all
is not lost. Through Christ we are more than conquerors!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">To you and yours, happy Thanksgiving.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In Faith, Hope, and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-52995719993094838922022-11-02T01:46:00.002-04:002022-11-02T09:45:04.345-04:00<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 22pt; line-height: 107%;">Shepastor: “Your Voice, Your Vote, Our Realities…”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UOYk3Da2TLrCW1mlAsJHVeNcmWPAJjwLh0GV37EJGCIm9P8VvrsAPqwfBWjuVv4m6QUX2rotN3a2iqE4htfLMGlGXtHXcMB5Eywk118g1jCiSQCfE1R_PgaA66itJkHC9Lu67xHu4tUNYJc7s0e6ZB8TmXSXxbX28aaZ4hrvEgCZyOjtFz0LsE0x/s6000/Little%20Black%20Girl%20holding%20Vote%20Sign.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UOYk3Da2TLrCW1mlAsJHVeNcmWPAJjwLh0GV37EJGCIm9P8VvrsAPqwfBWjuVv4m6QUX2rotN3a2iqE4htfLMGlGXtHXcMB5Eywk118g1jCiSQCfE1R_PgaA66itJkHC9Lu67xHu4tUNYJc7s0e6ZB8TmXSXxbX28aaZ4hrvEgCZyOjtFz0LsE0x/w400-h266/Little%20Black%20Girl%20holding%20Vote%20Sign.jpg" width="400" /></a></i></div><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-no-proof: yes;"><br /><!--[endif]--></span></i><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">20 and said: "Praise
be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. 21 He
changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives
wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. Daniel 2:20-21, NIV<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Voting season across America has swooped down upon us
in a major way. Telephones ringing, snail mail and email boxes are bombarded
with requests for support for various candidates and issues. Television and
social media ads are filled to the brim with messages promoting, denying,
accusing, confusing, “playing hard and fast,” with things that have happened,
imagined or real</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfd-5wuPcEolMVbv2gEeF67btSU0qKmyRS-5B7FrrjXH3fJc5SGzIhyFRQ7giGhBjm9gXLPBjncLjK2UXTRAMx1X4t6i9Rud-vzKmKrqQdh9hcOFD3nE_ZKmFwzAZIYT0AL6DXYv7nllFRE6Vncg7iv0l7Z5G69ns1t9rKPCckzNbJw4-GLDkv8wgD/s8688/Protect%20our%20Vote.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5792" data-original-width="8688" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfd-5wuPcEolMVbv2gEeF67btSU0qKmyRS-5B7FrrjXH3fJc5SGzIhyFRQ7giGhBjm9gXLPBjncLjK2UXTRAMx1X4t6i9Rud-vzKmKrqQdh9hcOFD3nE_ZKmFwzAZIYT0AL6DXYv7nllFRE6Vncg7iv0l7Z5G69ns1t9rKPCckzNbJw4-GLDkv8wgD/s320/Protect%20our%20Vote.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Some are feeling overwhelmed and have tuned out all
the noise. Some are filled with anxiety and have become depressed. Others have
just made up their minds that their vote will not matter, so they withdraw from
the process.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />I would like to encourage
you to remember that YOUR VOTE COUNTS!</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"> Your vote could mean the
difference between children receiving healthy meals in schools or hunger. <b>YOUR
VOTE</b> could mean the difference between common sense gun control and the ever-expanding
proliferation of gun sales. <b>YOUR VOTE</b> helps to determine not only the
president, but who sits with life-time appointments on federal courts, as well
as who makes the decisions in the House and the Senate. <b>YOUR VOTE</b> influences
who will sit on the U.S. Supreme Court. <b>Take time</b> to learn about the
issues in your area. <b>Take time</b> to listen to and learn about the past
records and platforms of the candidates running. <b>Television ads are not the
best source!<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8HPYaRCAIopJyNW-oZhGkpIWwfz3xrDT_c9dN0g8k0s_EsbvGiY3eAVnn1JP09WqdF4ScWk-eoUuVV5HPFQzln190MWxn2p3tQe4HVmRYxlzxZWavMbjtFIiOWiNjCV2KrsnqCU7gmxH4rmt7YxPjc-X6oZbBreWkWQAh-A3UA7CQKOvGJVIgi059/s4096/Women%20Voting.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="4096" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8HPYaRCAIopJyNW-oZhGkpIWwfz3xrDT_c9dN0g8k0s_EsbvGiY3eAVnn1JP09WqdF4ScWk-eoUuVV5HPFQzln190MWxn2p3tQe4HVmRYxlzxZWavMbjtFIiOWiNjCV2KrsnqCU7gmxH4rmt7YxPjc-X6oZbBreWkWQAh-A3UA7CQKOvGJVIgi059/w356-h188/Women%20Voting.jpg" width="356" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Past generations</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"> were
beaten, bled, and died so that we could vote…<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Current generations</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">
are suffering because we won’t take advantage of our right to vote…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Future generations</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"> will
not have the freedoms, the access, and the opportunities that we are barely hanging
on to <b>IF YOU REFUSE TO VOTE.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Yes, THE LORD reigns over all, but <b>God has blessed
us</b> to have our minds, our hands, and our feet to help make a difference in the
world.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">On next Tuesday, November 8<sup>th</sup>,
2022 or before, head to the polls and VOTE.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"> Don’t “sleep” on
the mid-terms. <b>Your voice, your vote, helps to determine OUR REALITIES.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">See you at the polls!</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">In Faith, Hope, and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-23502826743079933592022-06-01T00:00:00.001-04:002022-06-01T00:00:00.197-04:00<p> </p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Shepastor: “The Long-term Consequences of Short-term Decisions…”</span></span></h1><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFDRjaUEQAA2z4XD1ZBcUWreAO247SWIaNw9ts0JZy_w4O-tl1l-lMZjm7R3GxYTAuFuFzyIe7_JWWEJVs_ZRAkON2K8pMXAU9lg5kQMV5GQwERxjePvsgo-vdIc_7B74eUrcSmxf6h7ujpKKdSHU4WXd9d-7KN4qXXG30dtF42mkOUq-fEANEJ8u/s318/The%20Payoff%20Paradox.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="318" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFDRjaUEQAA2z4XD1ZBcUWreAO247SWIaNw9ts0JZy_w4O-tl1l-lMZjm7R3GxYTAuFuFzyIe7_JWWEJVs_ZRAkON2K8pMXAU9lg5kQMV5GQwERxjePvsgo-vdIc_7B74eUrcSmxf6h7ujpKKdSHU4WXd9d-7KN4qXXG30dtF42mkOUq-fEANEJ8u/w398-h199/The%20Payoff%20Paradox.png" width="398" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">People ruin their lives by their own
foolishness and then are angry at the Lord.</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">
Proverbs 19:3 NLT</span></i></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">“Why is the Lord allowing all of these terrible things
to happen???” Across the ages, this has been the question of humanity. Some
become despondent, some shake their fists at heaven, and some become bitter and
cynical. While all of these responses are “human,” we must take a deeper look
a </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">how</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> WE find ourselves in the state that we are in. <br /></span></div><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The ramifications of bad choices reach far
beyond one individual. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Although it is critical for
individuals to recognize the consequences of bad choices in their own lives, we
must also come to grips with the fact that <i>societal</i> and <i>national</i>
sins are visited upon all under their umbrella. The following are some examples
of this principle:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When U.S. law makers wrote in an expiration date, a “sunset”
law (<a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/08/13/750656174/the-u-s-once-had-a-ban-on-assault-weapons-why-did-it-expire">read
more here</a>) for a ban on automatic assault weapons, it may have appeared to
be a good decision, in the short-term, but in the long term, that decision has
yielded horrific consequences. As individuals fight to maintain their “2<sup>nd</sup>
Amendment rights,” demanding unchecked access to AR-15, military style weapons,
more and more people are losing their rights to safe, healthy, peaceful
communities.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In Ohio, the state congress is reviewing a bill that
would allow any adult to carry a firearm in school buildings after only 24
hours of training. This short-term/short sighted decision will create an even
more dismal future/environment for our teachers, administrators, and children
with long-term consequences. Raise your hand if you want your schoolteachers,
administrators, custodians, cafeteria workers, counselors, etc., walking around
your elementary, middle and high schools with rifles, handguns or AR-15s…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Blaming mental health issues instead of loose
access to assault weapons for massacres…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In the short term, misguided discussions, and legislative
dialogue about blocking the mentally ill from getting guns <i>sounds</i> productive,
but it denies the truth and ignores reality. Consider this…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXE1v7TcIubWYyV9iWoH6mB5pq3Onu7YL89V7EAV_oKU9xmBPjIgPV7xmHzx8YnM4S-OVmcYHwH8dSU69SiwgnKmiPFws_uPIN_yZR-pmIz1PRhO7AAWYS7Q_nlwMAewmsmienHWVcDNyjFjsG8F3ispwBMe27waXTbo3niaI4fwrRu2aThRkD7i5F/s1975/Quick%20Facts%20about%20Mental%20Illness%20and%20Gun%20Violence.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1003" data-original-width="1975" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXE1v7TcIubWYyV9iWoH6mB5pq3Onu7YL89V7EAV_oKU9xmBPjIgPV7xmHzx8YnM4S-OVmcYHwH8dSU69SiwgnKmiPFws_uPIN_yZR-pmIz1PRhO7AAWYS7Q_nlwMAewmsmienHWVcDNyjFjsG8F3ispwBMe27waXTbo3niaI4fwrRu2aThRkD7i5F/w549-h280/Quick%20Facts%20about%20Mental%20Illness%20and%20Gun%20Violence.jpeg" width="549" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence
shares these facts:</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Approximately
one in five Americans have a diagnosed mental illness in a given year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Mental
illness is not the cause of gun violence. The United States has similar rates
of mental illness to other countries, but has a much higher rate of gun
violence<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">People
with mental illness are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators
of violence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Only
4% of the interpersonal violence is attributable to mental illness alone<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Past
violent behavior is the best predictor of future violence, regardless of a
diagnosed mental illness<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We need COURAGEOUS community and national
leaders who will do what is best for all, in the long term…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Behind closed doors, many U.S. legislators will acknowledge
that assault weapons/AR-15 and the like are not appropriate for the civilian population.
Unlike weapons normally used for hunting, like rifles, or even basic handguns, <b>military
style weapons are designed for war.</b> The bullets not only penetrate the
flesh and organs, but military assault weapons literally explode inside of the
body and decimate internal organs. No rabbit, deer, squirrel, racoon, etc.,
would be edible or even recognizable once hit with these bullets. Whereas regular
firearms can do much damage, their rate of discharge is much slower. Rapid fire
weapons literally, “spray,” bullets across a large area, with greater velocity,
force, and magnitude. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3g0eH_792-au6wdPjZoxvI--TWrFT2OODWXFTyUHsCOSDKga2eGf_UoPmDIZxo97h238NI_wVWtNFgUiblj_3MOFyMdJ0mW-z3DBIWGalAFT2ygrzMy9E46iFulm9JiEefniiyUg2D5cWiNd_ylUVw2ezHIxyChIb_XZxlSyccSyZdR9b2FD-oMS/s2047/Mural%20Across%20from%20Walgreens.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2047" data-original-width="1947" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3g0eH_792-au6wdPjZoxvI--TWrFT2OODWXFTyUHsCOSDKga2eGf_UoPmDIZxo97h238NI_wVWtNFgUiblj_3MOFyMdJ0mW-z3DBIWGalAFT2ygrzMy9E46iFulm9JiEefniiyUg2D5cWiNd_ylUVw2ezHIxyChIb_XZxlSyccSyZdR9b2FD-oMS/s320/Mural%20Across%20from%20Walgreens.jpeg" width="304" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Instead of allowing themselves to be “bought” by the
National Rifle Association (NRA), instead of fearing the loss of power, or
their seats in congress, WE NEED congressional leaders who will stand up and
say, “Enough is ENOUGH!” <b>The real problem IS access to high-capacity assault
weapons.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Hate-filled rhetoric, prejudice, bullying, abuse,
etc., are all contributing factors to the tragedies that have unfolded,
increasingly, yearly in the U.S. Other countries have these same maladies, but
not the same percentages of mass shootings. What is the difference between them
and us? <b>In short, ACCESS to high capacity assault weapons.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Can we put aside politics, greed, and partisan platforms
and vote for LIFE???<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The power resides within our hands.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
Will we make wise short-term decisions so that we will be able to enjoy
long-term health, freedom, and peace?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Will you stay at home and say that your vote does not
matter, and then complain about leaders who don’t have the nation’s best
interest at heart? Will you dig your heels in and demand the right to carry high-capacity
assault weapons?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before you
answer, prayerfully consider the words of our text…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">People ruin their lives by their own
foolishness and then are angry at the Lord.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
Proverbs 19:3 NLT<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-10520093745807786602022-03-02T00:00:00.001-05:002022-03-02T00:00:00.194-05:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"> Shepastor: What is the Lord Seeking?</h1><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Amos
5:21-24<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 16.5pt; margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://bible.cc/amos/5-21.htm"><b>21</b></a> I hate, I despise your
feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p style="line-height: 16.5pt; margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://bible.cc/amos/5-22.htm"><b>22</b></a> Though ye offer me burnt
offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I
regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts. <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p style="line-height: 16.5pt; margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://bible.cc/amos/5-23.htm"><b>23</b></a> Take thou away from me
the noise of thy songs; for I will not hear the melody of thy viols. <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p style="line-height: 16.5pt; margin-left: .5in; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://bible.cc/amos/5-24.htm"><b>24</b></a> But let judgment run
down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwYsNjdHDwY16lC8PJsON5GI4k2TcwVuFNUpkWVp3Ly8HgmnW7R6lcC-wdPvUbeAq8-COwxTUVgj6H23TaXI3F0kn7PfPIZXOc1bCLXGyIXBoQnK8lHD9MXmPRfJ6Fd-F0WtpXwN_zS-illre9IovUuFu3oAHfyePZJk1XKIVmr6Lm73orgrLXEkwP=s367" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="137" data-original-width="367" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwYsNjdHDwY16lC8PJsON5GI4k2TcwVuFNUpkWVp3Ly8HgmnW7R6lcC-wdPvUbeAq8-COwxTUVgj6H23TaXI3F0kn7PfPIZXOc1bCLXGyIXBoQnK8lHD9MXmPRfJ6Fd-F0WtpXwN_zS-illre9IovUuFu3oAHfyePZJk1XKIVmr6Lm73orgrLXEkwP=w449-h167" width="449" /></a></div><br /><div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">We are currently in the
season of the Christian Calendar called, “Lent.” For many, this is a season of
fasting from sweets, delectable and, goodies. The purpose is to sacrifice
something that we enjoy, in order to focus upon getting closer to the Lord. The
practice is admirable. Its intent is beautiful. But could the Lord be seeking women
and men that are willing to do more than to give up the chocolate bunnies,
cakes, pies, and meat on Friday?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
easy to give up those things, but what does the Lord really want us to give up?
What would truly be a “sacrifice?” </span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="text-align: left;">In Amos’ day, people were fasting, attending religious
gatherings, and even paying their tithes. But their hearts were far from the
Lord. They were checking a proverbial box of religious behaviors. Today we must
ask ourselves, “Are we any different?”</span></span></p><p class="MsoBodyText"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText" style="text-align: left;"><o:p> </o:p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">America is one of the wealthiest nations on earth. Yet in our
land of plenty, there are millions of people living in poverty, unable to meet
their own basic needs. Poverty exists in every state across the country—in
urban, suburban, and rural areas—and its reach crosses every barrier—age, race,
gender, and family situations. Poverty can be situational (people experiencing
a crisis such as illness, divorce, or unemployment), generational (families
living in poverty for two or more generations), or relational (isolated people
without a support network to turn to).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">People in poverty experience not only a lack of income or
material possessions, but a lack of such things as physical and </span><span style="font-size: medium;">emotional security, stable
relationships, and damaged self-esteem. Poverty is teaching millions of
Americans that they are not valued, that failure is to be expected, and that
hope is futile.</span></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><span style="line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: large;">Our
approach to poverty must change.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Meeting
immediate needs are wonderful, but if we don’t challenge the systems that
perpetuate poverty, our gifts are but band aids on devastating wounds that
require major surgery.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">We must fast from
more than candy and other sweets. God is seeking individuals that fast from
injustice! <br /></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhmLsHYXuO9KZDOJaCcUBrih6oKg-F9G60zaU7GHDNTMfL1leqC3nNvJCNKTBY7S1yhTbuLzAFjpR8qYxAHh-JBFy09EbDov80DHIJm94aXuHt7k5rhWk4PKBEgzoDlaC6siR_ZaQPeuHpZkX0i8t0QuGOo7xmD5Vc7cpAZc_sESJVUDgPg2fRpViz=s300" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhmLsHYXuO9KZDOJaCcUBrih6oKg-F9G60zaU7GHDNTMfL1leqC3nNvJCNKTBY7S1yhTbuLzAFjpR8qYxAHh-JBFy09EbDov80DHIJm94aXuHt7k5rhWk4PKBEgzoDlaC6siR_ZaQPeuHpZkX0i8t0QuGOo7xmD5Vc7cpAZc_sESJVUDgPg2fRpViz" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><span style="line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The
Lord is seeking women and men that will stand and vote for just laws. The Lord
is seeking women and men that will serve our Nation in just, merciful and godly
ways. Greed, deceit, oppression, racist systems and hatred must be confronted
by the people of God. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-size: large;">As the Church, we need to begin to prayerfully ask God in
2022, what new things can we do to help bring about relief and support to our
surrounding communities and the world.</span><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;">We need to ask ourselves the question, “Are we simply bringing before
the Lord meaningless fasts, burnt offerings and sacrifices of tradition and
that which does not require us to leave our comfort zones?” The Lord wants to
use us to help break some chains, open some blinded eyes, bring some relief, to
show His love and compassion to a dying world…to “do justice!”</span></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-size: large;">Let us prayerfully consider what we can do to help serve
this present age. As we fast and pray during this Lenten season, may our
fasting cleanse us from lethargic and selfish ways. May our fasting convict us
of empty practices. May our fasting pull us towards actions that give God’s
heart joy. May we fast from injustice! May the Lord find what He is seeking, in
us!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpm1jUchzGjuNdyKAQIvu032PN8MooX3dNiYxP26pQ55obV80yIQ99FUWeV8bWDUUCyqjslW-N6U9eGVpRkjWWYAnXBxkh6-zGBZR6_TEa7bor4INEaCN1Op9G1OhxEZWqjsLx47m-UEXESDKwwrzztgCWK5KlE8pFJtNs536sd8ygfsOG51yXKAsO=s275" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpm1jUchzGjuNdyKAQIvu032PN8MooX3dNiYxP26pQ55obV80yIQ99FUWeV8bWDUUCyqjslW-N6U9eGVpRkjWWYAnXBxkh6-zGBZR6_TEa7bor4INEaCN1Op9G1OhxEZWqjsLx47m-UEXESDKwwrzztgCWK5KlE8pFJtNs536sd8ygfsOG51yXKAsO" width="275" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><span style="font-size: medium;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Join Restoration Ministries of Greater Cleveland
TONIGHT via Zoom for our Ash Wednesday Service at 7:00 p.m., EST. Visit <a href="http://www.rmgrcle.org/">www.rmgrcle.org</a> for the Zoom link and more
information.</span></i></p><p class="MsoBodyText"><o:p></o:p></p><br /></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-38363328289811766952022-02-16T00:00:00.001-05:002022-02-16T00:00:00.212-05:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"> Shepastor: "Lean in and Bend..."</h1><div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvRXDUayhigS-huQFlK2MS130l3-H3Q8jo82OoxNlalcA0Tvp4CjFdfJvvy5Nux89m-3dYXV_R5BaYjBnDBliw8qTLvtABhbp9SnZvgXG-WZ5Z90aTxgtPthYL0CXVTNkfPU_Sq_x7OuFQ7NUVrU7fDdRbZg4GqVzjLk2V-8BD59Qt9zAMNznVqy5D=s300" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvRXDUayhigS-huQFlK2MS130l3-H3Q8jo82OoxNlalcA0Tvp4CjFdfJvvy5Nux89m-3dYXV_R5BaYjBnDBliw8qTLvtABhbp9SnZvgXG-WZ5Z90aTxgtPthYL0CXVTNkfPU_Sq_x7OuFQ7NUVrU7fDdRbZg4GqVzjLk2V-8BD59Qt9zAMNznVqy5D" width="300" /></a></div><br />The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. </i>Psalm 92: 12, ESV</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Over the past few months I have been engaged in pool therapy for my knees. After breaking my ankle back in 2019, my osteoarthritis escalated and greatly impacted my walking and climbing of stairs - UGGH!!! Pool therapy has been wonderful, especially since the pool is intentionally warm. I also look forward to spending time in the heated whirl pool following intense exercise in the water!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Although I am doing much better, my knees still are not "100%." I cannot walk for very long distances without taking a break and stairs remain a challenge. On a positive note, I have lost 27 lbs., (WOO HOO) and am growing stronger daily. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">The other day, I discovered something that made a world of difference in my stair climbing. While in the water, I experience no pain when doing stair exercises because the water takes the pressure off of my joints. But on dry land, it's a different story. Although better, pain is remains a part of the picture on stairs. The other day, as I began my journey upstairs, I approached the steps differently. <b>Rather than just bending my knee, I leaned in as I bent, placing my weight on my knee <i>while</i> I was leaning in. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI76tQx_CfW-q-RCuZ4irIZyB820J_qDM7gccXoAdZstSZGnXnsYevjPJw_EzzJEa4oKX16QiI-pH5vXRpR7s1_3OVjvDvdQxDRk9_2EkHlwEOjoULq1_-ztRn2EMvVZw8ZD0Fjh3Ou3ilnDxIQzil_7NOm5wLMskPjHUvxiCIQAMALYYOLii5i_93=s225" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI76tQx_CfW-q-RCuZ4irIZyB820J_qDM7gccXoAdZstSZGnXnsYevjPJw_EzzJEa4oKX16QiI-pH5vXRpR7s1_3OVjvDvdQxDRk9_2EkHlwEOjoULq1_-ztRn2EMvVZw8ZD0Fjh3Ou3ilnDxIQzil_7NOm5wLMskPjHUvxiCIQAMALYYOLii5i_93" width="225" /></a></div><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Wallah! No pain! I tried the same motion on the next stair. No pain! I continued all the way up the staircase, little to no pain! </span><b style="font-size: large;">I immediately thought about the actions of "leaning and bending" in terms of our spiritual walk with the Lord.</b><span style="font-size: large;"> Sometimes during prayer, we don't lean into listening, waiting and hearing God's directives. Instead, we "stiffen" our hearts, our minds, our decisions, etc., refusing to bend or lean in to learn more. So often, we approach prayer with our minds already made up, making our experiences more challenging.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Consider Palm trees. They are famous for bending, but not breaking</b>. They bend down during storms and strong winds. By leaning in and bending, they preserve their lives and ability to rebound and stand tall. We can learn a lot from palm trees! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUZJnN-RG-FgR6HihthGF9VB0-kLTzdrBNWK6Y4bYZTLdRxKfETYCNVUNBW-D0JEA7tB9a_LQ2DhZjuIn75KfBPrJW8reePk9xDfioRADAzZ_58bnz9-TauL8qV5XHo2d0wTDtjPD6SB8E44PVB5TG_CZQV7-881t2vgbIJlIleX_vE0G6p0-2cnxn=s315" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="315" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUZJnN-RG-FgR6HihthGF9VB0-kLTzdrBNWK6Y4bYZTLdRxKfETYCNVUNBW-D0JEA7tB9a_LQ2DhZjuIn75KfBPrJW8reePk9xDfioRADAzZ_58bnz9-TauL8qV5XHo2d0wTDtjPD6SB8E44PVB5TG_CZQV7-881t2vgbIJlIleX_vE0G6p0-2cnxn" width="315" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">When we refuse to be flexible, malleable, or open to God's voice, God's leading, different options, new perspectives, fresh ways, increased pain sets in. We become weary and discouraged. When <i>our plans</i> don't prosper, the pain increases. But if we choose rather, like palm trees, to lean in and bend, we may still experience some level of pain and discomfort, but as our spiritual muscles become stronger, we will find it easier to navigate God's new terrain for us. We will continue to grow strong and stand tall through Christ. We will discover a new, that God's plans are the best plans for our lives.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Today, I encourage you to lean in and bend to God's will and purpose for your life. When you do so, healing, strength and fresh vision will come your way! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPb-6hgmYKA7SQZFjpk5NFGuB9zvUIxPpwy0i9alJ4hZhWFkpFyND45N7bgTCuxuaAG56OstBzFK_5rkX9-PfuyP5zRKtXifYt_rKW7tzUDeoPnlZGkiUXfyR46tu_jMEjnBGkHDRlAOleXhF1EryQT3yFCcE-bVmkE24WG1VSC2dykOWWy3aCte3x=s300" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPb-6hgmYKA7SQZFjpk5NFGuB9zvUIxPpwy0i9alJ4hZhWFkpFyND45N7bgTCuxuaAG56OstBzFK_5rkX9-PfuyP5zRKtXifYt_rKW7tzUDeoPnlZGkiUXfyR46tu_jMEjnBGkHDRlAOleXhF1EryQT3yFCcE-bVmkE24WG1VSC2dykOWWy3aCte3x" width="300" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Pastor Chris</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">www.shepastorchris.org </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-44643933530784930232021-11-24T01:16:00.000-05:002021-11-24T01:16:11.608-05:00<p> </p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #c55a11; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 20.0pt; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #C55A11; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: lumm=75000; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: accent2; mso-themecolor: accent2; mso-themeshade: 191;">Shepastor: “Don’t
Skip ‘Thanksgiving’…”</span></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXYUY8NJ94Xz20F7XNkpZMp5B3AiLCWu0gfL_X-6NWUgBdHEuOJ9XoxMPl6bFUR7QQCyY3IXKkHztBnPLbA4fMVfpRSMt7kXuwGAXejCobjFJanV5SAFdYJznbWeUlAZth3ObGXYMCkk/s445/Be+Thankful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="113" data-original-width="445" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXYUY8NJ94Xz20F7XNkpZMp5B3AiLCWu0gfL_X-6NWUgBdHEuOJ9XoxMPl6bFUR7QQCyY3IXKkHztBnPLbA4fMVfpRSMt7kXuwGAXejCobjFJanV5SAFdYJznbWeUlAZth3ObGXYMCkk/w415-h105/Be+Thankful.jpg" width="415" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br />136 </i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">O give thanks unto
the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">2 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">O give thanks unto
the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">3 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">O give thanks to
the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">4 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">To him who alone
doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">5 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">To him that by
wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">6 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">To him that
stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">7 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">To him that made
great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever:<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">8 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The sun to rule by
day: for his mercy endureth for ever:<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">9 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The moon and stars
to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> Psalm 136: 1-9,
KJV<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Commercialism
has taken us by storm! Even my teenager said, “Mom, did you notice that the
stores put out Christmas decorations on Halloween????” Is it really because
people are excited about remembering the gift of the Christ child or is it something
else?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s
as if there is no “sale value” to the Thanksgiving holiday, so let’s just skip
it. <b>But we should never skip an opportunity to be thankful</b>. More than
turkeys, ham, dressing, pies and family gatherings, <b>we should take this
opportunity to deliberately refocus our thoughts upon our many reasons to
embrace gratitude.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Someone
might be saying, “So much is wrong in the world. There’s so much sickness,
death, divisions and destruction. Why should we be thankful?” Let me share a few
suggestions: </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2abYy1TUBoXcicERuAPwZc05_9TnO6BxVSQwgRxpc8md-I2ztJIgTUyLthg4T8zosZpWjTCqM3NkvJPwelOfXYNgte6WbZWxiPmEV4L3cIMKFBFpbgKPiZr7TDSNZHdeGKwS0ZHjDpCg/s225/There+is+always+something+to+be+thankful+for.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2abYy1TUBoXcicERuAPwZc05_9TnO6BxVSQwgRxpc8md-I2ztJIgTUyLthg4T8zosZpWjTCqM3NkvJPwelOfXYNgte6WbZWxiPmEV4L3cIMKFBFpbgKPiZr7TDSNZHdeGKwS0ZHjDpCg/s0/There+is+always+something+to+be+thankful+for.png" width="225" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Be
Thankful…<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The Lord woke you
up this morning – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Whatever you have
been thru, you are alive to tell the story – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Everyday is a new
opportunity to “flip the script” and do a new thing – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">No matter your
situation, God loves you, God is for you and God is with you – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">In America, you
have a voice, you can vote, you can make a difference – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">If you have food
on your table, if you can choose what you want to eat and have the ability to
go and get it – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">If you have a warm
place to sleep – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">If you can
remember good times with loved ones either still with you or “on the other
shore,” be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">If you are loved
and can give love – be thankful!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">v<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">If you can help
someone else – BE THANKFUL!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .55in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCscovG6AgiLCpfPXqb_5QShZZ4r5c4PoJi3W9hDUKKqsZ24pslQH4QBHFDuvCWK8fAORMrmLAi3RWH-Cx5ukphyJXPi5_pJLL-OwlIzlcjhL2YUXYk-CvrvmhblL_k1Jcmg5XkXCCB6Q/s289/Be+Thankful+for+what+you+are.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="174" data-original-width="289" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCscovG6AgiLCpfPXqb_5QShZZ4r5c4PoJi3W9hDUKKqsZ24pslQH4QBHFDuvCWK8fAORMrmLAi3RWH-Cx5ukphyJXPi5_pJLL-OwlIzlcjhL2YUXYk-CvrvmhblL_k1Jcmg5XkXCCB6Q/s0/Be+Thankful+for+what+you+are.jpg" width="289" /></a></b></div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Being thankful,
grateful, appreciative, changes your focus from all that is wrong to all that
is right</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">.
Thankfulness helps you to have hope, because you still have breath in your body
– change is possible! Thankfulness reminds you that through Christ, all things
are possible. Thankfulness renews your energy and strength, because it forces
you to realize all is not lost, you have been in the valley, but you are alive
to tell the story!</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">CHOOSE to be
thankful.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Oh
give THANKS unto the Lord, for God is good and God’s mercy endureth forever!!!
PRACTICE THANKFULNESS!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">May
you and your household have a healthy, safe, love-filled, peace-filled,
joy-filled Thanksgiving season!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">In
Faith, Hope, Perseverance and THANKFULNESS,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pastor
Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-60619205593130506922021-10-20T00:00:00.001-04:002021-10-20T00:00:00.229-04:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"> </h1><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 28.0pt;">Shepastor: “You Are Surrounded…”<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPQfOIPsdutAXWa7Q8Mntlpi7nnRTFamaN19ooJn4nyZfwZhkRJ1AMr6ac1BgHkjlNGtiLpcX0pA9Sumohk1KXL3OPjCZjOw98uWZsZROeaaucfFFz_dYWb3cno7kB3kDR07ZRRlbvf8/s330/Surrounded+by+witnesses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="153" data-original-width="330" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPQfOIPsdutAXWa7Q8Mntlpi7nnRTFamaN19ooJn4nyZfwZhkRJ1AMr6ac1BgHkjlNGtiLpcX0pA9Sumohk1KXL3OPjCZjOw98uWZsZROeaaucfFFz_dYWb3cno7kB3kDR07ZRRlbvf8/w399-h184/Surrounded+by+witnesses.jpg" width="399" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br />12 </i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Therefore, since
we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off
everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us
run with perseverance the race marked out for us, <b><sup>2 </sup></b>fixing
our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy
set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down
at the right hand of the throne of God. <b><sup>3 </sup></b>Consider
him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow
weary and lose heart. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Hebrews 12: 1-3, NIV<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br />Today
as I watched the news, I witnessed a strong, courageous and determined woman challenge
her colleagues to stand up for what was right, even if it was unpopular. The vast
majority of her colleagues have chosen to ignore what is blatantly wrong in
order to keep their seats. It appears that she is alone. She literally is one
of two individuals that had the courage to stand. Yet, she stood.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">As
I considered this woman’s conviction to stand for right over wrong, even if it
meant that she would be ostracized, criticized, cast out and cast down, I was
inspired. The inspiration did not come from her platform or her party
affiliation, but rather her tenacious spirit to be willing to “go it alone,” if
it meant losing a seat that she had worked for, most of her life.</span></div><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sometimes
people, due to fear of isolation, fear of being ostracized, fear of losing
support, money, prestige, etc., will remain quiet or even defiant against what
they know to be right. Young and older people are confronted by peer pressure.
Employees fear retaliation from co-workers or even their bosses. Church people
fear being frowned upon, cast out or called vicious names.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGa6cj9nqNycWWButR3eDZTo88_eNGJ8ZTURNZKME3cb7b9zW5pocCrAlgs9P9XOdJmjQNX6srvO5vEAO0F-PYSdMtRdeSR71MdgP_RvwgFVnz5Qc3qUrVupD4y2HUZk1Q_xOHV-MdLo/s300/Surrounded+by+witnesses+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGa6cj9nqNycWWButR3eDZTo88_eNGJ8ZTURNZKME3cb7b9zW5pocCrAlgs9P9XOdJmjQNX6srvO5vEAO0F-PYSdMtRdeSR71MdgP_RvwgFVnz5Qc3qUrVupD4y2HUZk1Q_xOHV-MdLo/s0/Surrounded+by+witnesses+2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">It
is hard to stand alone! But we must remind ourselves that we ARE NOT alone.
When we stand upon the Word of the Lord, when we stand for “doing justly,
loving mercy and walking humbly with God,” we are not alone. When we are
persecuted for righteousness’ sake, we are not alone. The majority is not
always right. The crowd is not always right. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">It
may feel like we are standing alone; but we are surrounded by a great cloud of
witnesses. We are surrounded by the angels of the Lord. We are surrounded by
the lives and the legacies of men and women who sacrificed positions in
society, sacrificed pats on the back, sacrificed going along with the majority,
sacrificed opportunities, sacrificed their lives, literally. We stand upon
their shoulders. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The
most important thing we need to remember when we feel that we are standing
alone, is that we are surrounded by our great and awesome God. Romans 8:31 may
have said it best, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” The love of God,
the strength of God, the peace of God enables us to stand for just, holy and
righteous causes, even if the world stands against us. You plus God is more
than the world against you!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">You
are not alone – remember that the Lord and those who have gone before you are
right by your side. Envision them cheering you on from the balcony of eternity
and STAND!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">In
Faith, Hope and Perseverance,</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pastor
Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style="color: #00b050; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 28.0pt;"></span></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-28671564461040208712021-09-08T00:00:00.001-04:002021-09-08T00:00:00.176-04:00<h2 style="text-align: left;"> <b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-size: 22.0pt;">Shepastor: <i>“What Happens When We Have to Wait?”</i></span></b></h2><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNWqXHz3_tKeaLgSGNI8z4a8EU_26Z5PpIc295N9SQogVIZno_RRntmDn7PfP2ilo8V0liXV4e2xVUMLZJ2SulUPphi5m_VOYbxbYw22Mef1jr_OhJIj4TZM5Sv9xBvQa-I2Jnu_CKVA/s300/Waiting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNWqXHz3_tKeaLgSGNI8z4a8EU_26Z5PpIc295N9SQogVIZno_RRntmDn7PfP2ilo8V0liXV4e2xVUMLZJ2SulUPphi5m_VOYbxbYw22Mef1jr_OhJIj4TZM5Sv9xBvQa-I2Jnu_CKVA/w427-h239/Waiting.jpg" width="427" /></a></b></div><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><br /></span></b></p>John 11:
11-7, New International Version (NIV)</span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">The Death
of Lazarus<o:p></o:p></span></b></p></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">11 </span></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He
was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. <b><sup>2 </sup></b>(This
Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume
on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.) <b><sup>3 </sup></b>So
the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">4 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">When he heard this,
Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s
glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.”<b><sup>5 </sup></b>Now
Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. <b><sup>6 </sup></b>So
when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days,<b><sup>7 </sup></b>and
then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”</span></i></p></div></blockquote><p><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRKut5qinzSbS50YvUbR3NiBHcVMUXtdD2qHrEiZhj3bC3UkBpwodgWHO7wUVDJccRp-Db4JM4Dz_92hc_kzagJqyh4aVVZUYg-bYtdGnioxSxI0uL4FU4JRV96WY-tdp6TB96aD8DDAg/s275/Woman+looking+distressed+waiting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRKut5qinzSbS50YvUbR3NiBHcVMUXtdD2qHrEiZhj3bC3UkBpwodgWHO7wUVDJccRp-Db4JM4Dz_92hc_kzagJqyh4aVVZUYg-bYtdGnioxSxI0uL4FU4JRV96WY-tdp6TB96aD8DDAg/w304-h202/Woman+looking+distressed+waiting.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #800180;"><b>What happens when we wait?</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Many of us are in a season of
waiting…waiting for this horrible pandemic to pass, waiting for the insurance
company to approve a much needed medication, therapy, etc., waiting on that
check to come, waiting for some special door to open… waiting. Let’s be honest.
Waiting feels overrated. It’s easy to tell others to be patient, wait your
turn, wait on the Lord and be of good courage, good things come to those who wait,
etc. But if we are honest, no one truly likes to wait, particularly in this day
and age when so much is given to us so quickly. </span></div><p></p>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">We want the fastest phones, the fastest
computers, the fastest cars, the fastest email or text responses. We want
everything in what we call “real time.” For those who use computers, nothing
can be more frustrating than typing in something on Google or trying to live
stream and we keep getting that annoying spinning wheel that indicates “buffering.”
In other words, your computer is waiting to connect with the internet’s signal
to show you what you are looking for. Uggghh!!!</span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">If we have to wait a short period
of time, we may not feel too bad. We may grumble a</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0jORCxoXno6ZqsZEej-cG9_KD6E1XQuJZGmVFUWZ_gEt4kkSyvtD2_YPtCwmTi7LCNhdZDrbm1OLySG-eqTd0XQQ6ndZiPb7Z9C2W38M97EDHhJ-1-DQJ5i6xi90xHlbbsjiA_63b2k/s310/Black+Woman+looking+out+of+the+window+distressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="310" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV0jORCxoXno6ZqsZEej-cG9_KD6E1XQuJZGmVFUWZ_gEt4kkSyvtD2_YPtCwmTi7LCNhdZDrbm1OLySG-eqTd0XQQ6ndZiPb7Z9C2W38M97EDHhJ-1-DQJ5i6xi90xHlbbsjiA_63b2k/w348-h198/Black+Woman+looking+out+of+the+window+distressed.jpg" width="348" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> little or we may even just “suck
it up” and keep pressing forward, knowing that the solution is just around the
bin. But what happens when waiting is prolonged? What happens when discomfort
turns into pain, pain turns into agony and agony begins to turn into despair?
What happens in our psyche? What happens to our outlook on life? What happens
to our hopes and dreams? What happens to our faith in God? <b><span style="color: #e69138;">What happens when we
have to wait?</span></b></span></div><p></p>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">At some point in our lives, we all
will have the occasion to be able to relate to both Mary and Martha. Mary and Martha were two sisters who were
very close to Jesus. Their brother
Lazarus was close to Jesus as well. Jesus was their friend. But he was more than that to them. They
recognized Him as the Lord. They
believed Him when He said that He was the Christ, the Son of the living God.</span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0re61aRgO3ieMZwoVFc5kEby8xhEjsZuBYQ8p-LoN68vBfr7UESHzweLi9XnEJ4FbHsmBVQQeI32YIYWg-OQ9pqt8uqxa08NoEAkyeKRdA8EAcmwQBN15asFDg0HUuHUTkZRAB3wQvas/s275/Woman+looking+depressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0re61aRgO3ieMZwoVFc5kEby8xhEjsZuBYQ8p-LoN68vBfr7UESHzweLi9XnEJ4FbHsmBVQQeI32YIYWg-OQ9pqt8uqxa08NoEAkyeKRdA8EAcmwQBN15asFDg0HUuHUTkZRAB3wQvas/w314-h209/Woman+looking+depressed.jpg" width="314" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">So, when Lazarus, their beloved
brother and close friend of Jesus became ill, they were confident that Jesus
would come immediately and heal him.
Even if he didn’t come, maybe he would do like he did for the
Centurion’s servant, only say the word and Lazarus would be healed. But for
some reason, Jesus delayed his coming.
Can’t you see Mary and Martha pacing the floor, running over to the
window, hearing footsteps coming down the cobblestone path and saying, “Is that
Jesus?” only to discover that it was
just another traveler, walking down the dusty road. Worry and fear began to transform into
confusion, anger and possibly resentment. Where was Jesus? Why didn’t He come when they called? </span></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp68mropJRU3CA6OOzUVfS2MlMnn13u8p9PF15XcFCkn5iyQkDyLaPiRJUMI2sHZK6A8hVKDz4okNw2DIsuOzVyLse0FyAq-Gtgweb9Y7VjyAxkRaelcxaUqkh-l6_CZTeYmRLmnA2zOg/s310/A+tear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="310" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp68mropJRU3CA6OOzUVfS2MlMnn13u8p9PF15XcFCkn5iyQkDyLaPiRJUMI2sHZK6A8hVKDz4okNw2DIsuOzVyLse0FyAq-Gtgweb9Y7VjyAxkRaelcxaUqkh-l6_CZTeYmRLmnA2zOg/s0/A+tear.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Where are you Jesus? My sickness is getting worse. Where are you Jesus? The bills are piling up. Where are you Jesus? I can’t find a job. Where are you Jesus? My child has gone astray. Where are you Jesus? Why are you taking so long to come to my
rescue?</span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">In light of the pain that Mary and
Martha were in and in light of the fact that we know that Jesus </span><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">knew</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> that they were in pain, Jesus’ words in verse 5 are puzzling…</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">5 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Now Jesus loved Martha
and her sister and Lazarus. <b><sup>6 </sup></b>So when he heard that
Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days,<b><sup>7 </sup></b>and
then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">What? Jesus loved Martha, Mary and
Lazarus, yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he went back to the city where
he’d come from, Judea and DELAYED his coming! How does that make sense? Because
Jesus was fully human and fully divine, He understood just how they felt…frustrated,
hurt, angry, disappointed. But what they did not know was that Jesus was about
to perform the GREATEST miracle they had ever seen – a miracle that would
strengthen their faith in such a way that no one or nothing could ever shake
their belief. <b>What they didn’t understand was that this period of waiting was
for God’s glory and their blessing!</b></span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #ff00fe;">What happens when we wait?</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> Even at
our most challenging points, when we wait, not in our own strength, but through
the strength and power of the Holy Ghost, we learn how to “glory in our sufferings.”
We can rise above our current situation and circumstance and know that somehow,
the Lord is going to </span><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">get </span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">the glory
and </span><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">bring glory</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> out of our situation. What
happens when we wait? The Lord teaches us how to persevere. <b>Listen to how the dictionary describes
perseverance…</b></span></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt;">“To continue in a course of action even in the face of
difficulty or with little or no prospect of success. To… </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DiSfPYIx6pg8V-34oogND_XlWHvGbpaXMqO90DiVKnwpmLQ_bcLvVMugKehNh3WlKr04XaQO_A5qicMLjluCPorvkNJBdr6udpjSSZMJaAZZdjEueY2ObKzdqVJhPDYjvEzwJvUCedk/s237/Woman+flexing+muscles+sillouette.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="237" data-original-width="212" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6DiSfPYIx6pg8V-34oogND_XlWHvGbpaXMqO90DiVKnwpmLQ_bcLvVMugKehNh3WlKr04XaQO_A5qicMLjluCPorvkNJBdr6udpjSSZMJaAZZdjEueY2ObKzdqVJhPDYjvEzwJvUCedk/s0/Woman+flexing+muscles+sillouette.png" width="212" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
<tbody><tr>
<td nowrap="" style="padding: 0in 2.25pt 0in 0in;" valign="top">
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">synonyms:<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
</td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in;">
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="sdzsvb"><i><span style="color: #1a0dab; font-size: 14.0pt;">persist</span></i></span><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">, <span class="sdzsvb"><span style="color: #1a0dab;">continue</span></span>, carry
on, go on, keep on, keep going, not give
up, struggle on, hammer away, be persistent, be
determined, see/follow something through, keep at it, show
determination, press on/ahead, stay with something, not take
no for an answer, be tenacious, be pertinacious, be
patient, stand one's ground, stand fast/firm, hold
on, hold out, go the distance, stay the course, plod
on, plow on, grind away, stop at nothing, leave no stone
unturned; <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Psalm 107:23-24 King James
Version (KJV) declares,</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">23 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">They that go down to
the sea in ships<b>, that do business in great waters;</b> <b><sup>24 </sup></b>These
see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Waiting places us in “deep waters.”</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span>The Lord
loves us. He does not want us to remain all of our lives in shallow waters. The
Lord knows that if we get everything we want, when we want it, how we want it,
the way we want it, we will never learn how to build up and flex our “faith
muscles.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84K7GnNWg3kMhXItFAsSk039aRBIzW-n1oPpjVMO42PsEj8OwVCLzZ5KSgVYNDJgwJhYAKe4pFEMwBmGX45tmmyBFYYEADD4ijGPQRE9EkHcji69X665ljwksipmndpfDCtXW1OCNk58/s1200/Trusting+Gods+timing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84K7GnNWg3kMhXItFAsSk039aRBIzW-n1oPpjVMO42PsEj8OwVCLzZ5KSgVYNDJgwJhYAKe4pFEMwBmGX45tmmyBFYYEADD4ijGPQRE9EkHcji69X665ljwksipmndpfDCtXW1OCNk58/w374-h195/Trusting+Gods+timing.jpg" width="374" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Lord knows that we will never
see the wonders of God in the deep, we will never see the miracles of God unfold,
we will never experience the power of God to resurrect that which was dead, and
take away that which was stinking in our lives unless we go through some Mary,
Martha and Lazarus experiences! </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">God’s timing is not our timing</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">. God’s
ways are not our ways. God’s thoughts are not our thoughts. We live in Kronos,
God lives in “Kyrios.” Kronos is the human time – like the clock on the wall. Kyrios
is the “fullness of time,” it is eternal, it is God’s specific time that He has
ordained for things go happen according to His perfect will and purpose for our
lives.</span></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">If we can hold out until our change
comes, we will see the Lord move the stones away. After some heart wrenching
discussion and tears, Jesus asked them to do something that seemed utterly
ridiculous. He told them to “remove the
stone.” But Lord, by this time Lazarus’ body is decaying and stinking. “Remove the stone.” But he’s been dead four days now – no doubt
his spirit has since flown to the bosom of Abraham. </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">“REMOVE THE STONE!!!” </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkgURBnxUpULqPChQWXUeUSdAdTlcYquuOXwUYLlchmd9jSJ4RV4l73TyjY-7Nzq_sxwoi8Ti52y0R1ZiWV8GF6CubW3gRwfOUpWGFiwi0x54prdbasnS-lY7c0N-VsBvSinPPjeqKlA/s311/Roll+away+the+stone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="162" data-original-width="311" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkgURBnxUpULqPChQWXUeUSdAdTlcYquuOXwUYLlchmd9jSJ4RV4l73TyjY-7Nzq_sxwoi8Ti52y0R1ZiWV8GF6CubW3gRwfOUpWGFiwi0x54prdbasnS-lY7c0N-VsBvSinPPjeqKlA/s0/Roll+away+the+stone.jpg" width="311" /></a></b></div><b style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Sometimes in our own lives, things
have died. Dreams have died. Hope has
died. Relationships have died. Opportunities have died. We may feel as though it makes no sense to
remove the stone because by now, we’ve accepted the fact that what we’ve been
hoping for, praying for, crying for may never happen. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; text-align: left;">At times, God allows things to die
in our lives so that we can experience the joy of resurrection. Oftentimes faith requires us to do what seems
ridiculous and believe what seems impossible.
Great things happen when you step out in faith. Great things happen when we have to step out
into the deep. Great things can evolve when we persevere in our faith even when
it looks like “game over!”</span></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">We’ve got to trust that if God’s
Word says it, He is able to deliver on His promises. Even when it looks like the Lord is delaying
His coming to help you – God is faithful.
Even when it looks like it’s over – Jesus is the resurrection and the
life. He can help you to remove the
stone of doubt, the stone of fear, the stone of defeat, the stone of despair,
the stone of hopelessness. Let Him bring resurrection power into your
life. Allow the Lord to do GREAT THINGS
in your life, while you wait!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;">
</p></div><div><b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-size: 22.0pt;"><i></i></span></b></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-68137974316497748392021-08-25T00:00:00.001-04:002021-08-25T00:00:00.257-04:00Shepastor: "An Invitation to participate in a research project..."<p> <span style="font-size: large;">Dear Shepastor Friends,</span></p><div style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 18.6667px;">As many of you may know, I am a doctoral learner at Capella University in the School of Counseling and Human Services. I am writing to invite you to participate in a research study. This study is a part of my doctoral education program. Participation in this research is voluntary.</div><div style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></div><div class="yiv6375944856MsoNoSpacing" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>The purpose of this study is to<i> </i>answer the research question,</b> <b>“What are the lived experiences of inequity of African American women who have led or are leading a struggling, non-profit organization in America?” </b>In this study, I will seek to learn about the lived experiences of inequity of African American women leading struggling, non-profit organizations in America. Within this context, the term “struggling” refers to organizations that are unstable and dysfunctional. This type of organization is sometimes called a “glass cliff” appointment. The “glass cliff” is a phenomenon describing the reality that women are more likely than men to be appointed to precarious leadership positions in unstable, dysfunctional organizations.</div><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 23px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are an African American woman nonprofit leader and you are interested in participating in this study, or you know someone who may be, please email me directly at <a href="mailto:Revcsmith1@cs.com">Revcsmith1@cs.com</a></span></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 23px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you!</span></p><p><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 23px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pastor Chris</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAyhE2hMh7PWFjkTBLw-vYfquHMKi_skACtuPbZIkozDZyi98OX61VtxsigHP9e70wccXz8fljzhFeynwYQiOXg2IxHhtizuko2n2g4PHVykrf92DyHZo42CdaBEGsM_LTF-HmJWwvs0/s2048/Capella+RECRUITMENT+FLYER+PICTURE+as+of+June+15th%252C+2021.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1626" height="686" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAyhE2hMh7PWFjkTBLw-vYfquHMKi_skACtuPbZIkozDZyi98OX61VtxsigHP9e70wccXz8fljzhFeynwYQiOXg2IxHhtizuko2n2g4PHVykrf92DyHZo42CdaBEGsM_LTF-HmJWwvs0/w543-h686/Capella+RECRUITMENT+FLYER+PICTURE+as+of+June+15th%252C+2021.jpeg" width="543" /></a></div><br /><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0f1419; font-size: 23px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-55241699244094487602021-07-28T00:00:00.002-04:002021-07-28T00:00:00.208-04:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #c00000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 20pt;">Shepastor: “The Power of Honest, Transparent and Respectful
Conversation…”</span></h1><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7hS2rTAKOy_OkMEbT1rsVfp1eK9ZtLf0qBuAkrm8OnRcoDX2K3B67H6iiRKtBeY_qGJK-lsEo9MmrtAOsLr7kfsxX2-O5ISCk76Van6-tz7EIiQMZSKWGt6eqjDWl6hl5YyCaQx7WeU/s626/Diverse+People+Image+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7hS2rTAKOy_OkMEbT1rsVfp1eK9ZtLf0qBuAkrm8OnRcoDX2K3B67H6iiRKtBeY_qGJK-lsEo9MmrtAOsLr7kfsxX2-O5ISCk76Van6-tz7EIiQMZSKWGt6eqjDWl6hl5YyCaQx7WeU/s320/Diverse+People+Image+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">12 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">So in everything,
do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law
and the Prophets.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">
Matthew 7:12, NIV</span></div></blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">For the last five years,
the <a href="https://www.commongroundcle.org/">Cleveland Foundation</a> has supported
a community wide initiative called, “Common Ground.” Common Ground is a
platform for community members to come together to discuss ideas, issues, concerns,
etc., to make our communities healthier, stronger, better. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">On July 27<sup>th</sup>,
2021, <a href="http://www.rmgrcle.org/">Restoration Ministries of Greater Cleveland</a>,
Inc., and <a href="https://www.localprayers.com/XX/Unknown/147503119413100/Faith-in-the-City---Euclid%2C-OH">Faith
in the City Euclid</a>, Ohio, hosted the conversation, “People, Place and
Shared Power: Where Are We On the Journey?” Our facilitator was Dr. <a href="https://www.moorecounseling.com/our-staff-1">Martina Moore, Ph.D., President
and CEO of Moore Counseling</a>. The basis of our conversation was the ground
breaking book,<i> White Fragility,</i> by Robin DiAngelo. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In preparation for our
discussion, the board members of our group came together to read the book and
discuss how the concepts, truths, and overall idea of the book impacted us as
individuals. Our conversations were open, honest, transparent and raw.
Sometimes we laughed, sometimes we cried, and sometimes we became angry. But
our conversation remained respectful with truths shared in love. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPd37JWFh-uFCgy8V6aXv1KOS-aP9COwzMJA93VgLG6RanEE_uuNlEFnUyTe3Ctm_FbxCVzZ2VYLo8CMsYZacxH8dFufxUuCJ5dRAfhnGmnRtJOMeUAB9gWGdMHbdcMNH_ubYec8UHwBs/s254/Diverse+People+in+Dialogue+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="254" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPd37JWFh-uFCgy8V6aXv1KOS-aP9COwzMJA93VgLG6RanEE_uuNlEFnUyTe3Ctm_FbxCVzZ2VYLo8CMsYZacxH8dFufxUuCJ5dRAfhnGmnRtJOMeUAB9gWGdMHbdcMNH_ubYec8UHwBs/w330-h208/Diverse+People+in+Dialogue+1.jpg" width="330" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Dr. Moore asked that each
of us share our experiences during the book discussion with our conversation
participants. Our participant audience of 22 individuals was diverse in terms
of age, race, ethnicity and religious beliefs. Following opening remarks from
the facilitator and the experience sharing from the book study group, everyone
was given an opportunity to respond and share.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Individuals transparently
shared their thoughts about racism. White participants shared honestly the
fears they had been taught to have over the years about African American people
and their culture. African American participants shared the realities they face
daily related to systems that were designed and continue to persist to oppress,
marginalize, penalize and disenfranchise minorities on every level. An Asian participant
shared the oppressions, aggressions and disappointments they face as they
experience “tokenism” from White people, and rejection from African American
people. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 150%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgzX1gj_9sBS5BRfDaA4ycao4VHnllki9TR7Iv4i22SpH0BjspiB92cI8vIJJQ_vTUQpMtT50leNG5x938EtsRLJEapq8PGRN9-JUo23lJ7uch6RK2e2AEuiPBgye9xUDxrLHMnQ6QrI/s320/Diverse+People+in+Dialogue+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="320" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgzX1gj_9sBS5BRfDaA4ycao4VHnllki9TR7Iv4i22SpH0BjspiB92cI8vIJJQ_vTUQpMtT50leNG5x938EtsRLJEapq8PGRN9-JUo23lJ7uch6RK2e2AEuiPBgye9xUDxrLHMnQ6QrI/w371-h186/Diverse+People+in+Dialogue+2.jpg" width="371" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">A young person responded
to a statement regarding fear of the African American culture. He shared that
most fear is based in a lack of knowledge about the culture. He also
articulately shared how history writers control the narrative, frequently
painting those they oppress in a negative light. It is therefore important for
people to get to know people for themselves, to read a more expansive repertoire
of literature, from the perspective of those from the culture and to understand
the systems that create and perpetuate poverty, “inner city” conditions and the
dangerous atmosphere that rightly engenders fear.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">WOW! What a POWERFUL
CONVERSATION!!! Following the sharing of ideas, thoughts and experiences,
participants all agreed that more dialogue is needed on these issues. Participants
exchanged contact information and made a commitment to spend time getting to
know one another. People expressed a desire to learn more and to engage in a
follow-up discussion in the Fall. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9L7qc-Gd34gC6YJb1JBXfVWVyA542lveOd6No7hazJRCY5ci6DMcpm1Lf1bwYPovIcJCaF60sdE_7nX79XdFEhl5k2VScJvm-hmvY8AMgZgQXazaOWPJ73r3EEaIieglBFbhA7LOA7Ug/s277/Glasses+Seeing+things+clearly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9L7qc-Gd34gC6YJb1JBXfVWVyA542lveOd6No7hazJRCY5ci6DMcpm1Lf1bwYPovIcJCaF60sdE_7nX79XdFEhl5k2VScJvm-hmvY8AMgZgQXazaOWPJ73r3EEaIieglBFbhA7LOA7Ug/s0/Glasses+Seeing+things+clearly.jpg" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">To God be the glory,
honest, transparent and respectful conversation produced the fruit of
meaningful dialogue, new friendships and hope. We began to "see" one another! With God, all things are
possible, even in a time of historic divisions in our nation. By faith, we will
walk on. By faith, together, we will overcome, someday…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In Faith, Hope and
perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-74146963743809401082021-07-21T00:00:00.001-04:002021-07-21T00:00:00.189-04:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"> Shepastor: "What Kind of Fruit Do You Bear 'On the Regular?' "</h1><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><span class="text"><b><i><sup><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></sup></i></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QSatnFwBHZ9cBfNko-xDXg9zZzwFuMmop316oXKLGNDQOHo2u4KM6WWTAxBQ9Slu6A82cubfz-cICQa0xmdQ6CVtH4zhELUI3cYZ-MTdy7cWKuAnCOo-kk5XCctT0HzGHsrRLGwJ7jQ/s259/Good+fruit+vs+bad+fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9QSatnFwBHZ9cBfNko-xDXg9zZzwFuMmop316oXKLGNDQOHo2u4KM6WWTAxBQ9Slu6A82cubfz-cICQa0xmdQ6CVtH4zhELUI3cYZ-MTdy7cWKuAnCOo-kk5XCctT0HzGHsrRLGwJ7jQ/s0/Good+fruit+vs+bad+fruit.jpg" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br />9 </i></b><span class="text"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we
have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with
the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that
the Spirit gives,<sup>[</sup></span></i></span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%201:9-14&version=NIV#fen-NIV-29475a" title="See footnote a"><i><sup><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">a</span></sup></i></a><span class="text"><i><sup><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i></span><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> <span class="text"><b><sup>10 </sup></b>so that you may live a life worthy of
the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work,
growing in the knowledge of God,</span> <span class="text"><b><sup>11 </sup></b>being
strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you
may have great endurance and patience,</span> <span class="text"><b><sup>12 </sup></b>and
giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you<sup>[</sup></span></span></i><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%201:9-14&version=NIV#fen-NIV-29478b" title="See footnote b"><i><sup><span style="color: #4a4a4a; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">b</span></sup></i></a><span class="text"><i><sup><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i></span><span class="text"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> to share in the inheritance of his holy people in
the kingdom of light.</span></i></span><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> <span class="text"><b><sup>13 </sup></b>For
he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the
kingdom of the Son he loves,</span> <span class="text"><b><sup>14 </sup></b>in
whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. </span></span></i><span class="text"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Colossians
1: 9-14, NIV<span style="background: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><span class="text"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In this text Paul is praying some detailed
prayers for the people of God, the new believers in Colossae. Specifically,
Paul prays:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That the Lord would fill them with the knowledge of his will
through all the wisdom and understanding given by the Holy Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That they would live a life worthy of the Lord, pleasing him in
every way </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5PzRfbKQUxGjQ9hMtM_7_wVtYGDXh-Q7Q2qTd_7xxlP3AEi8RxuBvBn6bHGERuV88P8GrIqr6dQIN2FFi_aBRNqbB0RdR7X65qDr6L5iWwCLLY2F4wVv4MHRcW65r3NRz1ZmDTFPnBo/s274/Praising+Woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="184" data-original-width="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5PzRfbKQUxGjQ9hMtM_7_wVtYGDXh-Q7Q2qTd_7xxlP3AEi8RxuBvBn6bHGERuV88P8GrIqr6dQIN2FFi_aBRNqbB0RdR7X65qDr6L5iWwCLLY2F4wVv4MHRcW65r3NRz1ZmDTFPnBo/s0/Praising+Woman.jpg" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That they would bear fruit in every good work, growing in the
knowledge of the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That they would be strengthened by God’s power so that they may
have great endurance and patience<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">It is so easy for us to say that we could never
be worthy of all that the Lord has done for us. And that is true. The scripture
says that “all of our righteousness is as filthy rags…” There is nothing that
we can do to make ourselves clean, right before the Lord. However, <i>we can</i>
live a life that is <i>worthy</i> of our Lord. In other words, through Christ,
and with the power of the precious Holy Spirit, we can “walk worthy.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Paul emphasizes that through the power of God’s
Holy Spirit, we can live a life that is worthy of our Lord. We cannot do it on
our own, but through Christ, we can do all things. Let’s consider his prayers
for them:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The first two things Paul prays are:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
</div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">(1)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That the Lord would
fill them with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and
understanding given by the Holy Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 150%; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">(2)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That they would live a
life worthy of the Lord, pleasing him in every way<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></blockquote><div>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">When we yield our heart, mind and spirit to receive God’s
word, when we pray to understand and apply God’s word to our lives, we will, by
faith, trust in the Lord with all of our heart, not leaning to our own
understanding, but instead we will acknowledge him and trust him to direct our
path. We will learn how to please the Lord….Trust, pray and obey!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Today’s focus is upon the third thing that Paul prayed for
the believers:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
</div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">(3)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">That they would bear
fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></b></p></div></blockquote><div>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast"><b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Paul prayed that they would bear fruit in every
good work and grow in the knowledge of the Lord. What does it mean to “bear
fruit in every good work?” To bear fruit means that there will be evidence of
our walk with the Lord. Jesus said, “they will know that we are Christians by
our love.” Jesus also said that good trees will not bear bad fruit. We will be
known by our fruit. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOiYD_S-fsrI3w_Pl5V_WXrzlx4Wo7EgucncuBFczZ23agmmEyDowX5-CsT0c4kYMANUD12a_5Sy-Th2haVVI_Jcs11PBEIySMnrpEHu42Yv3QrurlyZuHqk9sAgj0GmQznXmWelC1a04/s275/Choosing+Fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOiYD_S-fsrI3w_Pl5V_WXrzlx4Wo7EgucncuBFczZ23agmmEyDowX5-CsT0c4kYMANUD12a_5Sy-Th2haVVI_Jcs11PBEIySMnrpEHu42Yv3QrurlyZuHqk9sAgj0GmQznXmWelC1a04/s0/Choosing+Fruit.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">This does not mean that we won’t ever do
anything wrong. </span><b style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">It does mean, however, that our “record” of fruit, the <i>kind
</i>of fruit we bear, should be consistent</b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">. </span><b style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">What kind of fruit do we
bear on the regular? </b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">For example, an apple tree cannot bear oranges. A
grape vine cannot bear lemons. If we are living a life worthy of our Lord, then
our fruit will be consistent with the Spirit of Christ. We are known by our
fruit. We win lost souls to Christ through God’s love. It does not matter how
many scriptures you know, how many days you fast or how many committees you
join if you don’t have love. </span><b style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">What kind of fruit do we bear “on the regular?”</b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Our fruit is reflected in the way we behave</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">. Do we treat people
like we want to be treated? Do we forgive, even when the offender does not
apologize? Do we speak the truth in love? Do we have the joy of the Lord? Are
we the hands and feet of Jesus, helping others, encouraging others, serving
others, supporting others? </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">God’s people have the fruit of the spirit:
love, joy, peace, long-suffering, endurance, patience, meekness “against such
there is no law.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In other words, when we live a life filled with
the fruit of God’s Holy Spirit, we don’t have to worry about “the law,” for our
love fulfills the mandates of the law. Jesus said that we can hang all of the
law and the prophets on the two great commandments – the love of God and the
love of fellow human beings. <b>May we pray to bear good fruit regularly that
reflects the love of Christ!<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">A song writer put it like this… </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaictt9X1XYKdBN5YRbeNnsxEx8CiI9scrb23xgl5wJzlZ3AbI_ZWgNKMZTc35RAaQJC2VQh4cDiWGNO-7PcwePgevFRl9p1eUR09j8Q7DXkPg1ds3DIe2pHADOoOlWwYpS57gYNuleeU/s259/Walk+Worthy+of+the+Lord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaictt9X1XYKdBN5YRbeNnsxEx8CiI9scrb23xgl5wJzlZ3AbI_ZWgNKMZTc35RAaQJC2VQh4cDiWGNO-7PcwePgevFRl9p1eUR09j8Q7DXkPg1ds3DIe2pHADOoOlWwYpS57gYNuleeU/w328-h246/Walk+Worthy+of+the+Lord.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Day by day<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Day by day<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Oh Dear Lord<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Three things
I pray<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">To see thee
more clearly<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Love thee
more dearly<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Follow thee
more nearly<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #111111; font-size: 14.0pt;">Day by day<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">May we join Paul in this prayer not only for ourselves, but
for one another, that we will live a life worthy of our Lord, and bear good
fruit in the name of Jesus!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Check out this amazing forum happening on <b>Sunday, July 25th at 6:00 p.m.! See the information posted below...</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9c24r9eocTPggKshkYKtG7UzsfMQ0OQAKDlM6zHzYUM0nVRJrQN_-hGnlq8NMJHvkEJLhhRUS4ylY2m7TMyp1FgjwUecpdYK-yCylnxeNbQDCRIRorfdwRfnvOhmHqBRxJNAegFAP_0/s2048/PNBC+In+Pursuit+of+Wholeness+Listen+to+the+Women+THE-PROGRESSIVE-HOUR-II+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9c24r9eocTPggKshkYKtG7UzsfMQ0OQAKDlM6zHzYUM0nVRJrQN_-hGnlq8NMJHvkEJLhhRUS4ylY2m7TMyp1FgjwUecpdYK-yCylnxeNbQDCRIRorfdwRfnvOhmHqBRxJNAegFAP_0/w445-h296/PNBC+In+Pursuit+of+Wholeness+Listen+to+the+Women+THE-PROGRESSIVE-HOUR-II+.jpg" width="445" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-85234336370087023412021-07-07T00:00:00.001-04:002021-07-07T00:00:00.258-04:00<h1 style="text-align: left;"> Shepastor: "Lessons From the </h1><h1 style="text-align: left;">Wilderness..."<br /></h1><div><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3VOZnBHh6E__jJqgIZSm_Y5azIA_IOjmnaKQRFxQI6D-lRVbxnqpEn1aPEa1751frTTquSlaTjiOBtM4ZV3oidhshVbaTiare3ZublNXA-napdlMXAPqSNdDypty40SiLhyphenhyphenhBBM0D_k/s285/The+wilderness+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3VOZnBHh6E__jJqgIZSm_Y5azIA_IOjmnaKQRFxQI6D-lRVbxnqpEn1aPEa1751frTTquSlaTjiOBtM4ZV3oidhshVbaTiare3ZublNXA-napdlMXAPqSNdDypty40SiLhyphenhyphenhBBM0D_k/s0/The+wilderness+1.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br />Matthew 4: 3-11, NIV The
Temptation of Jesus in the Wilderness<o:p></o:p></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">3 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The tempter came to him and
said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">4 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jesus answered, “It is written:
‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth
of God.’<sup>[</sup></span></i><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204%3A3-11&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23214a" title="See footnote a"><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">a</span></sup></i></a><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">5 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Then the devil took him to the holy
city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. <b><sup>6 </sup></b>“If
you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written:<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">“‘He will command his angels
concerning you,<br />
and they will lift you up in their hands,<br />
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’<sup>[</sup></span></i><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204%3A3-11&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23216b" title="See footnote b"><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">b</span></sup></i></a><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">7 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jesus answered him, “It is also
written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’<sup>[</sup></span></i><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204%3A3-11&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23217c" title="See footnote c"><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">c</span></sup></i></a><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">8 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Again, the devil took him to a very
high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their
splendor. <b><sup>9 </sup></b>“All this I will give you,” he said,
“if you will bow down and worship me.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">10 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jesus said to him, “Away from
me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him
only.’<sup>[</sup></span></i><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204%3A3-11&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23220d" title="See footnote d"><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">d</span></sup></i></a><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">11 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Then the devil left him, and
angels came and attended him.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>The wilderness…</b>that place where we imagine solitude, the
sounds of nature, running brooks, tall trees, cool breeze, and “roughing it.”
That’s one image. The wilderness can also refer to a mental, emotional or
physical place of isolation, weariness, concerns about the present and future,
vulnerability. In this passage of scripture, we find Jesus in both the physical
and mental wilderness. After having fasted forty days and nights, and in
preparation for his earthly ministry, Jesus is confronted by Satan himself.
Humanly speaking, Jesus is at his lowest point…tired, hungry, alone and facing
major tasks and responsibilities ahead. The weight, no doubt, is heavy, hard
and harrowing! But Jesus went through this process to teach us <i>how</i> to
overcome the enemy’s tactics, and stand victorious through the wilderness. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdoDE9YGFU51A3cJdTeADK6u4aGiLUJmRv9To9QO7gSX6luoTgq18Ue7IjACKI4WM4stlX6Vehe80OUamDijcf6gV1FvQ5V2Puv9WKTARBRsMTGO-WMtAgA_kWiPeBvmIlgQHpneQs1A0/s403/Wilderness+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="125" data-original-width="403" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdoDE9YGFU51A3cJdTeADK6u4aGiLUJmRv9To9QO7gSX6luoTgq18Ue7IjACKI4WM4stlX6Vehe80OUamDijcf6gV1FvQ5V2Puv9WKTARBRsMTGO-WMtAgA_kWiPeBvmIlgQHpneQs1A0/w349-h142/Wilderness+2.jpg" width="349" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Jesus’ victory over temptation teaches us how to resist Satan
and reign victorious as we experience the wilderness.</b> As we read verses 3-11,
we should not look simply at “bread, suicide or worshipping the devil,” but
rather, we should see these as representations of categories for life. The
writer in 1</span><sup>st</sup><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> John puts it like this, “For </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">all</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> that
is in the </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">world</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">, the </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">lust</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> of the </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">flesh</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">,
and the </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">lust</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the
Father, but is of the </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">world</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">” (1 John 2:16, KJV).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">When the enemy came to Jesus, tempting him to turn the stones
into bread, he was appealing to Jesus’ human sensation of hunger. To understand
this more fully, consider what happens to a person when they fast for extended
periods of time. “With no carbohydrates coming in, the body creates its own
glucose using mainly fat. Eventually, the body runs out of these energy sources
as well. </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Fasting</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> mode then becomes the more serious starvation
mode. At this point, a person's metabolism slows down, and their body begins
burning muscle tissue for energy” (Medical News Today, online).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Your muscles begin to weaken. Starvation begins to set in.
When a person is in this state, they are extremely vulnerable. <b>This describes
physical hunger, but there are many kinds of hunger that can weaken,
debilitate, and break down a person.</b> When the devil told Jesus to turn stones
into bread, it didn’t sound like such a bad idea. I mean, why not? He was
starving, he was weak, he was tired. He had the power to do it. Why not? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b style="font-size: 14pt;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht3RDfQH_0C3FPnULnQTVX_qQrVqKVMjDCTBuSKtm8y_ZFQkt0Fvr1C7fbUUWgEt4CzRgNonfvzdE_g_6W6GdMmTunfQ0181dPvJcb2QTBFkvghyphenhyphenZ5Wifb3sRvCmWgKQ3acP_-Clz3mp0/s275/Just+because+you+can+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht3RDfQH_0C3FPnULnQTVX_qQrVqKVMjDCTBuSKtm8y_ZFQkt0Fvr1C7fbUUWgEt4CzRgNonfvzdE_g_6W6GdMmTunfQ0181dPvJcb2QTBFkvghyphenhyphenZ5Wifb3sRvCmWgKQ3acP_-Clz3mp0/s0/Just+because+you+can+pic.jpg" /></a></b></div><b style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />Here’s
lesson 1: Just because you <i>can</i> do it, doesn’t mean you should. </b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Jesus
was on a mission. He was in preparation mode and needed all of the spiritual
strength as a human being that he could garner. Although he was God in the
flesh, when <b>Jesus came to earth, he came as a human being, to teach us how to
walk, how to live, how to serve, how to forgive, how to have faith, how to love
and how to make it through our wilderness experiences</b>. Had Jesus used his super
natural gifts, which we </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">don’t have</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">, then he would have lost the
influence to show us how to overcome when we are hungry.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p><b> </b></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>When Jesus faced hunger, he stood upon God’s word…</b> “But he
answered and said, it is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by
every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” We all get hungry
physically. But we also get hungry in other ways…hunger for love, hunger for
physical touch, hunger for affirmation and encouragement, hunger for
fulfillment…hunger for relationship…hungry for fellowship, etc. None of these
things in and of themselves are wrong. But if they are fulfilled in the wrong
way, we will lose our authority to witness, to be an example, to show others a
more excellent way. We can ruin not only our testimony, but our life’s work,
our life mission, our life as we know it if we seek to fulfill hunger in
unhealthy and immoral ways.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p><b> </b></o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>Just because you can go where ever you want to go, doesn’t
mean that you should</b>. Just because you can attract or get involved with a
particular person, doesn’t mean that you should. Just because you can enter
into a particular business venture, doesn’t mean that you should. Pray, weigh
the consequences, ask yourself is it really worth it? Think about who will be
impacted by the decision that you are about to make to satisfy some passing
hunger. Understand that once you yield to the temptation that the devil dangles
before you, he leaves you to deal with the fall out, stands back to the side
and laughs.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Lesson #2: Don’t throw yourself down unnecessarily.</span></b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> The devil next tells Jesus to jump
off of a cliff, suggesting that if he does, the Father would send angels to
come and rescue him. Listen again to how Jesus responds…</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">7 </span></sup></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jesus answered him, “It is also
written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’<sup>[</sup></span></i></b><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204%3A3-11&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23217c" title="See footnote c"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">c</span></sup></i></b></a><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The devil loves to take scripture out of context. The devil
quoted Psalm 91:11-12 out of context…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">11 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">For he shall give his angels charge
over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">12 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">They shall bear thee up in their
hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Within context of this passage, these verses refer to accidents
or harm coming to a godly person unaware of a danger. <b>This DOES NOT suggest
that God’s people can take on foolish dares, deliberately put themselves in
unnecessary harm</b>, handle snakes, drink poison, jump in front of cars as a stunt
and expect “angels to lift you up.” This is a trick, a trap and involves
foolish pride. Sometimes people will knowingly get themselves involved in
foolish, ill advised, even sinful situations and then say, “the Lord will
protect me.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Lord </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">may</i></b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b> have mercy and keep you from death, but
that is not guaranteed.</b> Don’t fall for the devil’s trick. Jesus said, “do not
put the Lord your God to the test.” In other words, don’t do foolish, stupid,
ill advised, immoral things and then EXPECT that God will protect you. “Be not
deceived, God is not mocked. Whatsoever a man soeth, that shall he also reap.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">We all make mistakes. We all make ill-advised choices from
time to time. But understand that when such things happen, </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">if</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> we are
spared, it’s because of God’s </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">mercy,</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> not because God is obligated to spare
us. When we </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">choose</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> to step out from under the arc of God’s safety, God’s
Word, God’s guidance, we open ourselves up to unnecessary pain, sometimes
life-long anguish and scars. <b>Don’t put God to the test…don’t do whatever you
want and expect that God will rescue you from the consequences.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The final trick and trap Satan offers Jesus is to “give him
all of the kingdoms of the world, </span><i style="font-size: 14pt;">if</i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> he would fall down and worship
him.” </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Lesson #3: “Don’t fall for the ‘Okidoke! Worship God alone.’”</b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">
Listen to how Jesus responds…</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5LThWHFzSV4w9nUy6Kqutw4ZWRmdnx75lOPKVMnmcyaVQhObHx6lLGObKxHOJmup619XRpaNuiaPtSlXUaAl79vhe4VY1EFUea8t_wprheNLOIgchkrjGosPE-3e8ezklkgd1Ud3yJA/s259/Dont+fall+for+the+Okie+Doke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5LThWHFzSV4w9nUy6Kqutw4ZWRmdnx75lOPKVMnmcyaVQhObHx6lLGObKxHOJmup619XRpaNuiaPtSlXUaAl79vhe4VY1EFUea8t_wprheNLOIgchkrjGosPE-3e8ezklkgd1Ud3yJA/s0/Dont+fall+for+the+Okie+Doke.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">8 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Again, the devil took him to a very
high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their
splendor. <b><sup>9 </sup></b>“All this I will give you,” he said,
“if you will bow down and worship me.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">10 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jesus said to him, “Away from
me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him
only.’<sup>[</sup></span></i><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%204%3A3-11&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23220d" title="See footnote d"><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">d</span></sup></i></a><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">]</span></sup></i><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">”<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">11 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Then the devil left him, and
angels came and attended him.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Of all of the tricks and traps,
temptations Satan offers Jesus, I always thought this one was the most
ridiculous. Satan knows that Jesus is the Son of God. Satan knows that Jesus is
God- the Word made flesh. He knows that Jesus is a part of the God-head and
that God owns all – “the earth is the Lord and the fulness thereof, the world
and they that dwell therein…” (Psalm 24:1, KJV). What was he up to? Was he
appealing to Jesus’ self-worth and pride? Did he think that because Jesus was
adorned in human flesh that he would forget who he was, who the Father is?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The devil knew that Jesus was doing
this for us. He knew that Jesus, although fully divine, had taken on the
feelings, emotions, fears, struggles, hopes, desires, etc., of humanity, so
that he could relate to us completely. Therefore, the devil was appealing to his
human tendencies. Jesus knew that we would be faced with these same
temptations… “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of
life.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jesus knew that there would be times
when we wanted something…we wanted a position, or some power, or some material
things, some relationships, some opportunities etc., that appeared to be out of
our reach. And while the devil is not like God – the devil IS NOT omniscient.
In other words, the devil does not know everything. Only God knows all. But the
devil is <i>ancient. </i>In other words, the devil has been around a very long
time and he has learned the weaknesses of human beings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also remembers what made him fall – the
spirit of pride. Proverbs declares that pride goes before the fall.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74APPmc8h8jVKGBE07P_8mnYZJGJvPHrpO71htQXnIeTYwbXZCg6REUORliu1Mnjt3o7iewCLUp80yPgwhX7RWrnVu2Etb8SODuaHNM_7fcE40peDm7qa2YGaKx4VbdaMzTd23r6RCkg/s389/Worship+the+Lord+Only.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="129" data-original-width="389" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74APPmc8h8jVKGBE07P_8mnYZJGJvPHrpO71htQXnIeTYwbXZCg6REUORliu1Mnjt3o7iewCLUp80yPgwhX7RWrnVu2Etb8SODuaHNM_7fcE40peDm7qa2YGaKx4VbdaMzTd23r6RCkg/w410-h147/Worship+the+Lord+Only.jpg" width="410" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Satan was appealing to Jesus’ human
side, hoping that somehow, the prospect of having fame and fortune on earth
would cause him to bow down and worship him. <b>But Jesus summed up the answer for
us, for all time – “worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.”</b> The old saying goes, “if you dance to the
music, you’ve got to pay the piper.” My mother always said, “ill-gotten gain
will never serve you well.” You cannot accept the trinkets, the material
things, the position and the power, the fame and the fortune offered by the
devil and think that there is no price to pay.<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>Satan has NOTHING to offer you except
destruction, death and hell.</b> No matter how good it looks, no matter how sweet
it sounds, no matter how much of an “opportunity” it appears to be, it is an
illusion, a trick, a trap, a fleeting moment of pleasure that turns bitter in
your mouth, sour in your stomach and send you on a trip to the proverbial
emergency room with a massive bill! Satan is a loser. <b>You cannot win on his
team. Stay with God! Worship and serve the Lord who is worthy of all of our
praise! God has all power in His hand</b>. God is the giver and the sustainer of
life. God is able to keep you from falling. God is able to lift you up in the
presence of your enemies. God will supply all of your needs according to his
riches in glory. But most of all, God is the giver and the sustainer of your
life, not only here, but in eternity through Jesus Christ.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQzFNmdATLl4YTuJsUMsKdCYQG0pCdC7eJSEoMTMK88zjfX9Gl8NsvVJogi04HjiqtUwSEpUC7a34SZ_fgzBrrN2IVvJ5EyhjpZKS2Q7DlZl2WFmL676x4ZxnEH-jKiGs-QBOdGzs8ws/s302/Worship.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="167" data-original-width="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQzFNmdATLl4YTuJsUMsKdCYQG0pCdC7eJSEoMTMK88zjfX9Gl8NsvVJogi04HjiqtUwSEpUC7a34SZ_fgzBrrN2IVvJ5EyhjpZKS2Q7DlZl2WFmL676x4ZxnEH-jKiGs-QBOdGzs8ws/s0/Worship.jpg" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>Don’t fall for the Okiedoke! Learn
from Jesus’ examples and lessons from the wilderness.</b> Resist the devil and he
will flee from you. Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you. Follow the
Lord Jesus and daily, he will teach you how to avoid, resist and beware of the
tricks of the devil!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Until next Wednesday,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-top: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><br /></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-61440504310899045902021-06-09T00:00:00.000-04:002021-06-09T00:00:00.330-04:00<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #c00000; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 18.0pt;">Shepastor: “The Pain and the Necessity of the Long View…”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><a name="_Hlk30199985"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></i></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ejy7EMa6SurIN21C4ZZ6PkH79jfwVWresLcdHuw0VfmNaEtX97OarmzpkqHwdpUXfNDqvFtPNe1NpbBoglBtzNt-MVcj-pNH06R4bllvzRfdZC2MVt8jAFps2dP1rbgrthEYt2o58Ok/s225/Taking+the+Long+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ejy7EMa6SurIN21C4ZZ6PkH79jfwVWresLcdHuw0VfmNaEtX97OarmzpkqHwdpUXfNDqvFtPNe1NpbBoglBtzNt-MVcj-pNH06R4bllvzRfdZC2MVt8jAFps2dP1rbgrthEYt2o58Ok/s0/Taking+the+Long+View.jpg" /></a></i></div><i><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">All these people
earned a good reputation because of their faith, yet none of them received all
that God had promised. For God had something better in mind for us, so that
they would not reach perfection without us. (Hebrews 11:39-40, NLT)</span><o:p></o:p></i><p></p>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk30199985;"></span>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">In the words of the late
Dr. Elton Trueblood, every generation has the bittersweet task of “planting
shade trees under which we know full well we shall never sit.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">If individuals are
honest, it can be hurtful to realize and accept that some ceilings will not be
broken during our lifetime…some bridges still won’t get crossed, some doors
still will remain closed and some opportunities still may not happen. We are
still blazing trails, as it were. We can, however, take the proverbial mallet
in our hands, determine to join together, and beat upon ceilings, keep knocking
on doors and keep pressing towards the mark. Harlem Renaissance writer Zora
Neale Hurston declared, “Mama exhorted her children at every opportunity to
‘jump at de sun.’ We might not land on the sun, but at least we would get off
the ground.” </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLie2PNx9Vec0Vpl_WV1z0_c12a3qz7Z-Yt3xM4mctnkMq-hl9jay3zpOayTG0CTjjFxQY0Fq0KpiAiIK_OJfjvOyvHaWJTUBPwUsCtzM66u3IPGObBvc7aQKzNxu6EBIno7qCVrO-cNE/s300/Elton+Trueblood+Shade+trees+quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLie2PNx9Vec0Vpl_WV1z0_c12a3qz7Z-Yt3xM4mctnkMq-hl9jay3zpOayTG0CTjjFxQY0Fq0KpiAiIK_OJfjvOyvHaWJTUBPwUsCtzM66u3IPGObBvc7aQKzNxu6EBIno7qCVrO-cNE/w354-h198/Elton+Trueblood+Shade+trees+quote.jpg" width="354" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Change is not something
that happens quickly, easily or without struggle and sacrifice. The people in
our text all, in one way or another, through faith fought to bring about
change. Whether facing oppressive giants, or fighting to end unjust systems of
slavery or fighting to save children, families or nations, by faith, they
pressed on.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">James Russell Lowell, in
the Boston Courier, December 11, 1845 penned these famous words: (only the last
stanza…)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Though the cause of evil
prosper, yet the truth alone is strong;<br />
Though her portion be the scaffold, and upon the throne be wrong;<br />
Yet that scaffold sways the future, and behind the dim unknown,<br />
Standeth God within the shadow, keeping watch above His own. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPhGMysKMJLFYKrb2KgvRGIl8G6tPnpMEN0vHcrGKiPrhQF0GeWDhs7lvwlQOjgsPk7tyo184ofXr8cboeczreu4nwfd0HIPhOdD7aM1ZjQVFT2dONnr7bUqA682CiqoOsIN91ZTBXpE/s259/Women+Civil+Rights+Marchers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPhGMysKMJLFYKrb2KgvRGIl8G6tPnpMEN0vHcrGKiPrhQF0GeWDhs7lvwlQOjgsPk7tyo184ofXr8cboeczreu4nwfd0HIPhOdD7aM1ZjQVFT2dONnr7bUqA682CiqoOsIN91ZTBXpE/w287-h215/Women+Civil+Rights+Marchers.jpg" width="287" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The Rev. Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a young man when he was gunned down. And while he
saw several major victories evolve out of the blood splattered Civil Rights
movement, seeing all of the fruit of his labor was not to be. He was prophetic
when he declared that he had “been to the mountain top and seen the promised
land.” He declared, “I may not get there with you, but we as a people will get
there!” Dr. King had taken the “long view.” </span><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">The civil
rights leaders had to take the long view to fight for freedom. Rabbi Abraham
Joshua Hershel had to take the long view in order to march arm and arm with Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr., in the 1960’s in Selma, Alabama to be sure that all
Americans would have the right to vote. They
had to take the long view in Selma, where</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">half of the city's residents were black but only one percent
were registered to vote because the registration board only opened doors for
registration two days a month, arrived late and took long lunches (ref.
"Eyes on the Prize" documentary).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t-birNWzcSmel6_vYFqy3K6tj3nR4O1AuIEBAheXGyeE7n5BDgwlUuaP2qV7bUYsj2YyCnkQqLR8b3WmZpxxr1eFzh5csOVeHbheA2_4YaIGCA7BL7Urgilo8rsjvegTebDJQcSAmoU/s318/Dietrich+Bonhoeffer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="318" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t-birNWzcSmel6_vYFqy3K6tj3nR4O1AuIEBAheXGyeE7n5BDgwlUuaP2qV7bUYsj2YyCnkQqLR8b3WmZpxxr1eFzh5csOVeHbheA2_4YaIGCA7BL7Urgilo8rsjvegTebDJQcSAmoU/w339-h182/Dietrich+Bonhoeffer.jpg" width="339" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Dietrich
Bonhoeffer had to take the long view to stand up against the atrocities of the
Nazi regime as Hitler sought to annihilate the Jewish nation.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Sometimes faith urges you, presses you,
convicts you, compels you, empowers you to stand for what is right even against
seemingly insurmountable odds. Faith will embolden you, strengthen you, press
you, push you to go beyond the boundaries of yourself and with God’s help seek
to do something greater that will impact the lives of those yet unborn. It
takes the long view…<br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">But in our
own, individual lives where we might not be faced with standing up against a
Hitler, or facing attack dogs and fire hoses - in our everyday lives, how is
God challenging us to act out our faith?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Could God be calling us to think outside of the box?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Could God be calling us to volunteer in an
inner-city school to give some broken, poverty stricken, almost hopeless child
a hope for the future?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Could God be
calling us to write letters to our local representatives regarding unjust laws,
demanding that they change their opposing stance? Could God be calling us to
stand when others are sitting down, fallen asleep or have left the proverbial
room?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Could God be
calling us to help in our little corner of the world?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Sometimes faith presses us to move from our
comfort zones into places of discomfort and great possibility. Again, in our
own, individual lives, sometimes faith is calling us to move from a place of
complacency to becoming an active participant in the blessing and healing
process.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmsFqjUuI_Rr1E8YaYa69FFybOtcUduH4FEn1mp2Fn0J36LuKzUGSVlovBn7eaisWiTxv945w5RjVJCW-Up8lLRsqds0h0Xox9NJEO0edAd4A3lx6vhACHGIKTgj1psIA9lRuaeOm_xA/s300/Woman+taking+the+long+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmsFqjUuI_Rr1E8YaYa69FFybOtcUduH4FEn1mp2Fn0J36LuKzUGSVlovBn7eaisWiTxv945w5RjVJCW-Up8lLRsqds0h0Xox9NJEO0edAd4A3lx6vhACHGIKTgj1psIA9lRuaeOm_xA/w342-h192/Woman+taking+the+long+view.jpg" width="342" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">God is
calling us to take the long view…to plant seeds of faith, seeds of deliverance,
seeds of hope, seeds of investments, seeds of righteous living, seeds of
honor…to plant seeds that will help raise up a godly generation, a strong
generation, a faith-filled generation. God wants to use us to break some glass
ceilings, to push in some doors, to break down some barriers or at least do
some serious damage to that which is blocking the way.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">If all we do
is sing, “We shall overcome,” link arms, place wreaths on some tombs and
silently march in remembrance then we will have failed our predecessors. We
must do more than live in a past time paradise. We must do more than sing loud
hosannas and read poetry. We must speak truth to power… we must educate and
register people to vote. We must stand against unjust laws and systems that
crush the lives of children and youth through failed educational systems, “for
profit” prison systems, gang riddled, drug infested neighborhoods and over-crowded
class rooms with frustrated, overworked and under-paid teachers!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">We may not
get everything accomplished, but we must keep “jumin at de sun!” We may not see
all that we are hoping to come to pass, but we must do all we can, while we can
to lay the ground work for a better day ahead. May we have the courage to take the long view...</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">All these people earned a good reputation
because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised.
For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach
perfection without us. (Hebrews 11:39-40, NLT)</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,</o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p>Pastor Chris</o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><a href="https://www.shepastorchris.org " target="_blank">www.shepastorchris.org </a></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-73124812055938796162021-05-12T00:00:00.003-04:002021-05-12T00:00:00.209-04:00Shepastor: "An 'Aroma' or an 'Odor???' "<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Shepastor: "An 'Aroma' or an 'Odor???' "</span></h2><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEzA6eVUBw6H6H5DIl_WiAm07HnrOCygImt0zRKKg_ZgGaO7dWHzfnQ0-Rg9OXYQ2HUxCyq-Y4g031nY_odG3UwH70MdEYOq5zMOj1sQGwkSnaJwU-SeCHJHTUGh6Q__M1nyuObp06Xg/s225/The+Aroma+of+Chris.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEzA6eVUBw6H6H5DIl_WiAm07HnrOCygImt0zRKKg_ZgGaO7dWHzfnQ0-Rg9OXYQ2HUxCyq-Y4g031nY_odG3UwH70MdEYOq5zMOj1sQGwkSnaJwU-SeCHJHTUGh6Q__M1nyuObp06Xg/s0/The+Aroma+of+Chris.jpg" /></a></i></div><i><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">But thanks be to God, who
always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us <a name="_Hlk71663061">spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For
we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who
are perishing. </a></span></i><b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">(II
Corinthians 2:14-15, NIV)</span></b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 0.5in;"><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">When I was growing up, especially during the
holiday season, our mother would get up early and start preparing breakfast and
then on to preparing dinner. The <b>aroma</b> of the garlic pork (a Guyanese breakfast
dish, especially at Christmas), fresh rye bread, and eggs would fill the house.
The unmistakable aroma signaled that it was time to get up, come down to eat
and then to open our gifts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">I can also remember the <b>fragrance</b> of my mom’s perfume
as she prepared to go out with friends. I remember waiting with excitement to
see her walk back through the door…I’d run down the stairs to greet her as she came
in. I’d jump up, throw my arms around her neck, kiss her cold cheeks and again,
smell the sweet fragrance of her perfume. Conversely, I hated the <b>odor</b> of food
that had been too long in the refrigerator, or the scary, horrific stench of
the dead mouse caught in the trap behind some area out of sight! Both make my skin
crawl to this day!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqfEi73b0112Hq4MO-6wKCuc5J8VgY2lQCrPUULBIebinydtNT1RHXVZR8BoKAO0UgRCFKe0hvbnha9C2MeqfphfjEuVjfU7m7yamdzofFMB7Nixtp747ztUEHTkFXHVmwuEDjsLLw4s/s300/Bad+Smell.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqfEi73b0112Hq4MO-6wKCuc5J8VgY2lQCrPUULBIebinydtNT1RHXVZR8BoKAO0UgRCFKe0hvbnha9C2MeqfphfjEuVjfU7m7yamdzofFMB7Nixtp747ztUEHTkFXHVmwuEDjsLLw4s/s0/Bad+Smell.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>There is a distinct difference between a “fragrance/aroma”
and an “odor.” </b>The terms </span><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">fragrance</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">
and </span><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">aroma</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> stir up feelings of
something desirable, beautiful, delicious, mouth-watering! The term </span><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">odor</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> conjures feelings of sickness, nastiness, distasteful,
foul. Simply put, an odor stinks! No one wants to be told that they have an odor! Most wouldn’t mind being
told that they have a beautiful fragrance or that their food has a wonderful
aroma!</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">God’s Word tells us that Christ, through us, </span><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">“spreads everywhere the <b>fragrance</b>
of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the <b>aroma</b> of Christ among
those who are being saved and those who are perishing.”</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> In other words, when we
spread the good news about Christ, <b>it’s like we are spreading a beautiful
fragrance among people, spaces and places that are dwelling in odor filled arenas.</b>
Those who do not have a relationship with the Lord, through Jesus Christ are
trapped by sin and death.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAXxlicuQwOIAv5Dn_nWu8dYlcWqiWq1Sa7TmVLAVRvF5WyfW2lzQXJiFya4_C678D0k9AKtml4DEVv-fLwNpjIH5azRNcYlrN0-FbsrLyxwPPXHL5cpWDGCWABLwlt4t3irCv5WOHrA/s259/Skunk+Smell+Bad+odor.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAXxlicuQwOIAv5Dn_nWu8dYlcWqiWq1Sa7TmVLAVRvF5WyfW2lzQXJiFya4_C678D0k9AKtml4DEVv-fLwNpjIH5azRNcYlrN0-FbsrLyxwPPXHL5cpWDGCWABLwlt4t3irCv5WOHrA/s0/Skunk+Smell+Bad+odor.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Death
has a very distinct odor.</span></b><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"> It is sickening, overpowering, horrific. In like
manner, sin covers humanity with the stench of spiritual death and separation
from the Father. When we share the gospel of Jesus Christ, not only with our
words, but with the sweet fragrance of love, compassion, mercy, grace and
peace, it encourages those who are “being saved,” in other words, all who are
on the journey as well as those who are “perishing…” those who have not made
the decision to receive life through Christ.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>We
don’t want to contribute to the odor!</b> We spread odors by our attitudes, ugly
actions, hypocrisy and pharisaic behaviors. We spread odors when we see need
and look the other way, see suffering and neglect to offer comfort, see
injustice and neglect to speak truth to power. We are not called to spread odor,
but the fragrance and sweet aroma of Christ.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhv10HYv7cXSXraNhJP5owQzUnXRGVIXm9-gEKcsYBFJdzG8SjHSJhlxM2-9HLjs1SvyOOi8zOsIEUdNzBIWkGRI6_Mgw1ahP7-dD_1eWgF9pSGQIuNxcrH5qE0uhiejXcm43Gmacqekc/s275/The+fragrance+of+Christ.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhv10HYv7cXSXraNhJP5owQzUnXRGVIXm9-gEKcsYBFJdzG8SjHSJhlxM2-9HLjs1SvyOOi8zOsIEUdNzBIWkGRI6_Mgw1ahP7-dD_1eWgF9pSGQIuNxcrH5qE0uhiejXcm43Gmacqekc/s0/The+fragrance+of+Christ.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><b>What
are you spreading today?</b> May we seek the Lord’s guidance and strength daily to
spread the sweet fragrance and aroma of Jesus through word, deed and being.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">In Faith,
Hope and Perseverance,</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Pastor
Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/" style="font-size: 14pt;">www.shepastorchris.org</a> </div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-68827896625429229682021-04-28T00:00:00.004-04:002021-04-28T00:45:42.881-04:00Shepastor: “Forgiveness is a Challenge and a Process…”<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzoyP6nPQRaNHLa3kwlA7Z_hTSidlzyYuX35F2qgmmUslw0zaNi6RiP6dWF9SAM9hIheYZNvSwczZ3ODtr7y_luPQNLDG8_LOJsBIEp8Zxm9Tb9wWV5Pj6Ox1YWU-3h0k1ueOzKHRRPA/s310/Challenge+Climbing+a+ladder.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzoyP6nPQRaNHLa3kwlA7Z_hTSidlzyYuX35F2qgmmUslw0zaNi6RiP6dWF9SAM9hIheYZNvSwczZ3ODtr7y_luPQNLDG8_LOJsBIEp8Zxm9Tb9wWV5Pj6Ox1YWU-3h0k1ueOzKHRRPA/s0/Challenge+Climbing+a+ladder.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">19 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Surely thou wilt
slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">20 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">For they speak
against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">21 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do not I hate
them, O Lord, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up
against thee?<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">22 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I hate them with
perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">23 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Search me, O God,
and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">24 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">And see if there
be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. </span></i><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Psalm 139: 19-24,
KJV<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">We face many challenges in life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Challenges are inevitable</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In our society we make sport of
challenges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> At one time, o</span>ne of the most popular
shows on T.V. was the “Biggest loser.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This show focuses on weight loss challenges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The teams compete against each other to see
who can lose the most weight over a specific amount of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can tell you that losing physical weight is
a challenge!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take a year to lose fifty
and two weeks to gain it back!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a
challenge to lose physical weight.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">But there is another kind of weight that is
exceedingly difficult to lose - the weight of an unforgiving heart.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a challenge to forgive when you’ve been
hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a challenge to forgive when
you feel that you’ve been damaged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
a challenge to forgive when the perpetrator of your hurt never acknowledges the
wrongful acts committed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It can be a daunting thing to have to forgive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, as Christians, we know that this is what
God’s Word requires of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>Greater
yet, it is what the heart of God desires for us – to be free from the weight of
bitterness, brokenness and unforgiveness. </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSV4aoljyGE_ZaaS0tyb_cTRpDXFgDANIJg4exVE0efqOaDbrdgbH1a_xgo7J2Ckhd2IRCB5CMc89lswHaEXOwJmtr1w_WkAoWe5vcyH2aN_wZg0KKSW1ufDbCQIOzHMeVYUNnx_uBEWw/s300/Forgiveness+Let+it+go.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSV4aoljyGE_ZaaS0tyb_cTRpDXFgDANIJg4exVE0efqOaDbrdgbH1a_xgo7J2Ckhd2IRCB5CMc89lswHaEXOwJmtr1w_WkAoWe5vcyH2aN_wZg0KKSW1ufDbCQIOzHMeVYUNnx_uBEWw/s0/Forgiveness+Let+it+go.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /><o:p></o:p></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Some of the challenges of forgiving include:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s hard to forgive because it hurts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It aches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s a challenge to forgive because we desire justice – we serve a Just
God, we are made in God’s image and something down deep inside of us cries out
for justice and judgment against those who have done us wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want them to pay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want them to know that you can’t mess with
us and get away with it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want
somebody to kick their you know what!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s a challenge to forgive because we don’t want God to have mercy on
them – but to bring judgment down upon them.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s a challenge to forgive because often we are still suffering either
physically, emotionally, financially or psychologically because of another’s
misdeeds.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s challenging because very few find the courage to apologize for the
wrongs committed<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">And it’s challenging because so many times, it appears that we are
struggling while they are prospering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
have the dilemma of the Psalmist …“why do the wicked prosper?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Those are a lot of reasons, seemingly good reasons
we hold onto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no quick formula
that we can rattle off that will cause your pain to evaporate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>Forgiveness is a challenge</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It requires sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sacrifice is something that you give at a
cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it was easy, it wouldn’t be a
sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But forgiveness is a
sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a sacrifice because it
requires that you deny yourself the right to hold onto anger, to seek revenge,
to spew out poisonous, venomous words, thoughts and behaviors against the
individual(s).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><b>It is a sacrifice because
you have to make the decision to let it go and release it to God and trust Him
to make it right.</b><b> </b> It’s a sacrifice
because you have to trust God that He knows you’ve been hurt, He knows you’ve
been wronged, He knows what was done was unfair, unkind, unjust, uncalled for
and in some instances inhumane. But you
have to sacrifice all that stuff on the altar of love and forgiveness and trust
that God, who doeth all things well is going to heal you, and deliver them.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">The thing about perpetrators of wrong that we miss,
because our pain blinds us –is that they are dying, they are decomposing, they
are hood winked. The devil has sold them a false bill of goods and they think
that they are riding high.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Bible
declares, however, that we will reap, what we sow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you sow the wind, you will reap the
world wind.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 150%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZsg_NDNl1zqK0hqN3i6fa6TLO8AQvkTS_lAgXL6OuLX8mdaDIqQDutovL684JmPkXugEgoiDncqw5N_ds4BMYtMuNulqu60XnSdYKYqrkYVlqJDaP_v2HektVPr8BcI0Gq4OGjTapZVA/s275/Woman+Struggling.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZsg_NDNl1zqK0hqN3i6fa6TLO8AQvkTS_lAgXL6OuLX8mdaDIqQDutovL684JmPkXugEgoiDncqw5N_ds4BMYtMuNulqu60XnSdYKYqrkYVlqJDaP_v2HektVPr8BcI0Gq4OGjTapZVA/s0/Woman+Struggling.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">In spite of all of that, forgiveness is still a
challenge. We want folks to “get it!” <b>But
God’s heart is not like ours.</b> He
knows the heart, mind and soul of not only those who are walking upright, but
those whose hearts are hard toward him.
The scripture says that it is not His will that </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">anyone</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> perish…not the abuser, not
the oppressor, not the former police officer, Derek Chauvin, not white supremacists,
not murderers, adulterers, hate-filled people…not anyone. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>The Lord sees what we cannot see</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sees that they are headed for destruction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sees that they are headed for eternal
separation from Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sees that satan
has totally fooled them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God never wants
us to have to experience what Jesus took for us on the cross.<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">When Jesus took upon himself all of the sins of the
world, for a moments time, He experienced separation from His father – the
agony was so great that he cried out, “my God, my God why hast thou forsaken
me?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Separation from Him is so deep, so
agonizing, so excruciating, that the Lord does not desire that for anyone. We
desire mercy for ourselves, but not for our enemies. But while we were yet
sinners, Christ died for us. He cried out on the cross, “Father, forgive them,
for they know not what they do!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Forgiveness is not only a challenge, but a process.
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Jesus
himself went through a process as he contemplated the agony of the cross… “Father,
if it be possible, remove this cup…Father forgive them for they know not what
they do…My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me???” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">While some try to “theologize” Jesus’ utterances
away, <b>I would argue that Jesus was allowing the experiences of humanity to be
recorded so that we would understand a bit more about the journey</b>. It is so
easy for the Church… “religious folk” to demand that we forgive as soon as the
dagger has struck, as soon as the injustice has occurred, as soon as the pain
has sought to bury us. God’s grace and mercy, however, reveals another path in
the scriptures.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3DyTOXSCY2Pb8yhggJIxBmIRaKfqvYeayv2rA19Nh8IuSHeZRhfJrz3BGEMNP6Wbe4rV2MviE2W45KOrD8gf3E3Jzj10rgPSu29vhf5uwjUkR6HZQ4EvuzlncUwBI4_WkAWIH3b-RVo/s310/In+Process.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3DyTOXSCY2Pb8yhggJIxBmIRaKfqvYeayv2rA19Nh8IuSHeZRhfJrz3BGEMNP6Wbe4rV2MviE2W45KOrD8gf3E3Jzj10rgPSu29vhf5uwjUkR6HZQ4EvuzlncUwBI4_WkAWIH3b-RVo/s0/In+Process.png" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><b>David in the 139<sup>th</sup> Psalm declared, “Do
not I hate them that hate thee? I hate them with perfect hatred…</b>” His initial
response was hatred. He even justified his hatred by saying that he was just
hating these wicked souls because they were disrespectful to God! Deep down in
David’s heart, however, he knew that it was not </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">God’s</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"> hatred, but his own. David
then turned and prayed, “Search me oh God and know my heart, try me and know my
thoughts, see if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way
everlasting.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><b>David was honest with God about how he felt towards
his enemies. </b>He hated them! He was clear on his feelings. But then he prayed
and asked God to search him, try him to see if there was any wickedness in him
and lead him in the way everlasting. David went through a process…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Jesus desires that we, like Him, make the sacrifice
to forgive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is calling us to take the
challenge to forgive and be grateful when they repent. <b>Forgiveness and
gratefulness are what distinguishes us from the rest of the world.</b> Jesus
said that they will know we are Christians by our love. Forgiveness is a challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>It is not an event. It is a process.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does not mean that you automatically will
forget all of the hurt, all of the pain, all of the stuff that came along with
the wrong committed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>But it means
that you accept the challenge to begin the journey towards healing.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It means that you accept the challenge to get
it all out – tell God and maybe some other trusted human being all of the stuff
that is consuming you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get it out, look
at it, talk about it, dissect it and then ask God to help you release it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">We cannot do it on our own</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will be a process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if we begin the process, we will discover
that as we get it out, as we confess our hurt, our anger and our pain, as we
pray and ask God to help us go beyond it, we will find increasing the strength
to let it go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll find increasing
strength to feel sorry for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll
find increasing strength to genuinely pray for them and you’ll find increasing
strength to trust God for the outcome. We will find the grace, mercy and
strength to pray for their salvation and gratefulness when they turn from their
wicked ways.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 150%;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGCltfhtmoEu954cH0h_2zU9S6zK0ZJYa8poEnzl3kLHRR4XGYVKCXVWrWxSvmEME6kDNTTYWP9xQQG1XSn6KYM9EUC63CX5dm8p2SneJ_BfOsW2Stw4AZIYqp2u_FiUTjAV7jx2o650/s225/Forgiveness+does+not+diminish+justice.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLGCltfhtmoEu954cH0h_2zU9S6zK0ZJYa8poEnzl3kLHRR4XGYVKCXVWrWxSvmEME6kDNTTYWP9xQQG1XSn6KYM9EUC63CX5dm8p2SneJ_BfOsW2Stw4AZIYqp2u_FiUTjAV7jx2o650/s0/Forgiveness+does+not+diminish+justice.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">God is not unjust.
God will address wrong doing.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When God
forgives, He does not necessarily erase the consequences of our behaviors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But He will erase the eternal consequences of
damnation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we were yet sinners,
Christ died for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His forgiveness of
our sins came long before we had a mind to repent and turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We love Him because He first loved us.<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Ask the Lord to help you to forgive and to be
grateful today, be healed, be delivered and be set free.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-41300564692530549422021-03-10T00:00:00.001-05:002021-03-10T00:00:02.764-05:00Shepastor: “A Celebration of Women – Women’s History Month…”<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLzr-MePOvS1YN7OqqjF-XjLQVrbUO-xc3hvZ9GXBRonXpl39DwoKu-7758H_2q05QOQ8O3ouHZJWHv-IjfagTdwUbW87Uw84L6HvtKw8WWS8nr4zAFlyvxOJCMg-BqweRzVr_8LO9TU/s1080/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Alfie+Wines.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxLzr-MePOvS1YN7OqqjF-XjLQVrbUO-xc3hvZ9GXBRonXpl39DwoKu-7758H_2q05QOQ8O3ouHZJWHv-IjfagTdwUbW87Uw84L6HvtKw8WWS8nr4zAFlyvxOJCMg-BqweRzVr_8LO9TU/w384-h384/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Alfie+Wines.png" width="384" /></a><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> 29</span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Many daughters
have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.</span></i></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">30 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Favour is
deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she
shall be praised.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">31 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Give her of the
fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> <b>Proverbs 31:
29-31, KJV<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">March
is officially designated as “Women’s History Month.”</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">About
Women's History Month</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Women’s History Month had its origins as a
national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which
authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7,
1982 as “Women’s History Week.” Throughout the next five years, Congress
continued to pass joint resolutions designating a week in March as “Women’s
History Week.” In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History
Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987
as “Women’s History Month.” Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional
resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each
year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of
annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.”
These proclamations celebrate the contributions women have made to the United
States and recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course
of American history in a variety of fields. (Read more at <a href="https://womenshistorymonth.gov/about/">https://womenshistorymonth.gov/about/</a>
)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>This
week, Shepastor highlights a new book edited by Rev. Dr. Alfie Wines, </b></span><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"></i></p><blockquote><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wish-Someone-Had-Told-Me/dp/B08QRB3955/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Alfie+Wines&qid=1615346531&sr=8-1">I
Wish Somebody Had told Me: Equity for Women in the Church<span style="font-style: normal;">.</span></a></i></blockquote><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">In
this ground breaking work, pastors, leaders, professors and teachers, men and
women, share their insights regarding the inequities women in ministry continue
to face. But it doesn’t stop there. It also highlights the victories,
resiliency and hope for women called by God to serve this present age. Below are
quotes by a few of the women leaders included in this outstanding work…</span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJc6yWqDOk6D4AN1bDPtK5hXUAPahOCQHLHKR0fvrjosDci2WmSNpJ6D-3B2gUYkx61IfunCR2Eaa_mS6MQq_PntLxm9QI3Zor9TLCxhs-dCq7Q_CmAS6nDNn8MMcN3aiUAW8DP00Hh0/s1080/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Eileen+Campbell.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJc6yWqDOk6D4AN1bDPtK5hXUAPahOCQHLHKR0fvrjosDci2WmSNpJ6D-3B2gUYkx61IfunCR2Eaa_mS6MQq_PntLxm9QI3Zor9TLCxhs-dCq7Q_CmAS6nDNn8MMcN3aiUAW8DP00Hh0/w438-h438/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Eileen+Campbell.png" width="438" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVWHmsWQ_inYMxwer4C8bw6U1jN1nG1ky3aun9tLDIfXTZNFq0yaZlcNgjiFbc7H9spJt0BZ4FYZGMl02-yCkgZ-cb49Ui5rMs8oj2aBxScqqex4ZVgc0Cua8qodZPIAELEQ3ykJFqB0/s1080/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Courtney+Pace.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="423" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVWHmsWQ_inYMxwer4C8bw6U1jN1nG1ky3aun9tLDIfXTZNFq0yaZlcNgjiFbc7H9spJt0BZ4FYZGMl02-yCkgZ-cb49Ui5rMs8oj2aBxScqqex4ZVgc0Cua8qodZPIAELEQ3ykJFqB0/w423-h423/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Courtney+Pace.png" width="423" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eTsZlUx1MpipXOEJ-8uI8UUMeTTL43JnPLuffqHJo7p3IKDyTW7OvyeA9ljyOPFtoBgeCmHRSLidii3TsHZ_ThHVVzNgajk1VWlv0leSozaWYUmYb4ZHZzAiN9qQLhB1cavScmWOrdk/s1080/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Alfie+Wines+Quote.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eTsZlUx1MpipXOEJ-8uI8UUMeTTL43JnPLuffqHJo7p3IKDyTW7OvyeA9ljyOPFtoBgeCmHRSLidii3TsHZ_ThHVVzNgajk1VWlv0leSozaWYUmYb4ZHZzAiN9qQLhB1cavScmWOrdk/w428-h428/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Alfie+Wines+Quote.png" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAOt1qWMGIp83ctwz9wPmmDal5Po7N83eBom66lzXgAOuUUEjzWBda6QlExBesvPvuSVjri10tePcPExwdhyiURCH7mb1eOkVH8WGlcRMmN-MfoU0e1Ue-KlySirvtY6KFpkD_1L3FR4/s1000/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Jann+Aldredge+Clanton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="407" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAOt1qWMGIp83ctwz9wPmmDal5Po7N83eBom66lzXgAOuUUEjzWBda6QlExBesvPvuSVjri10tePcPExwdhyiURCH7mb1eOkVH8WGlcRMmN-MfoU0e1Ue-KlySirvtY6KFpkD_1L3FR4/w407-h407/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Dr+Jann+Aldredge+Clanton.jpg" width="407" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAzN2q0snwVD6LN9rFsQD8v_SFfrmVClwqUuFye3ti-wyJoMGTq9-WqwN2UD5_OeOU0NhLQntctDAB5QkXxMq_LcISV9pm8p6ZLgPKWlY00NRULcgyYYq5PgqCasriFpOYrNuo1EGj7oM/s1080/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Pastor+Chris.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAzN2q0snwVD6LN9rFsQD8v_SFfrmVClwqUuFye3ti-wyJoMGTq9-WqwN2UD5_OeOU0NhLQntctDAB5QkXxMq_LcISV9pm8p6ZLgPKWlY00NRULcgyYYq5PgqCasriFpOYrNuo1EGj7oM/w419-h419/Equity+Alfie+Book+Promo+Pastor+Chris.png" width="419" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You can purchase <i>I Wish Someone Had Told Me: Equity for Women in the Church by clicking </i></span><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: medium;"><u><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wish-Someone-Had-Told-Me/dp/B08QRB3955/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Alfie+Wines&qid=1615346531&sr=8-1" target="_blank">here</a></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;">Until next Wednesday,</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;">Pastor Chris</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org" target="_blank">www.shepastorchris.org </a></span></span></div>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-49031530918543706712021-02-10T15:13:00.011-05:002021-02-10T15:19:35.022-05:00Shepastor: "Pew Research Features Dialogue on the History, Impact and Future of the Black Church..." <p> <span style="font-size: medium;">Greetings Shepastor Friends!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As we celebrate Black History month, today, Shepastor highlights an upcoming Pew Research webinar on the Black Church, next Tuesday, February 16th at 3:00 p.m., EST. See details and the invitation below...</span></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuz0XOfmA4JWLE6Bk6-qN2OCSnyAnsCTBkCORxZBxFk8PpnnDuyFzT7EokmbcE4FlxIe627nHRjq-prhXCny7bAUxUFSzPkQz7OQxmhCMBfwiuYTOe-X1TFvguqCNcY413vTn1Tp0g4M/s1400/Pew+Research+Image+Webinar+on+the+Black+Church.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="1400" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuz0XOfmA4JWLE6Bk6-qN2OCSnyAnsCTBkCORxZBxFk8PpnnDuyFzT7EokmbcE4FlxIe627nHRjq-prhXCny7bAUxUFSzPkQz7OQxmhCMBfwiuYTOe-X1TFvguqCNcY413vTn1Tp0g4M/w488-h122/Pew+Research+Image+Webinar+on+the+Black+Church.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; color: #5555ff; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 0px;" valign="top"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="yiv1651282103email-root-wrapper" style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 600px; min-width: 240px; text-align: center; width: 600px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 0px;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="line-height: inherit; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 10px 5px 12px;" valign="top"><div style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14px;"><h2 style="font-size: 26px; line-height: 26px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: Arial; font-size: 22px; line-height: inherit;">Unpacking Black American Religious Life: Praising God, Opposing Racism, and Challenging Black Churches</span></h2></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="line-height: inherit; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 8px 5px 14px;" valign="top"><div style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/?utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=REL%20-%2021-02-16%20Release%20Day%20Invitation%20Black%20Religion&org=982&lvl=100&ite=7915&lea=1730445&ctr=0&par=1&trk=" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="cursor: pointer; line-height: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="border-bottom: none; line-height: inherit;">Pew Research Center</span></a> invites you to join a virtual presentation and conversation about findings from the Center’s most comprehensive, in-depth study of religion among Black Americans (to be released February 16, 2021). We will unpack the diverse religious lives of Black Americans by examining the role race plays in religious experience, the impact of religion and church on everyday life, and how social views, styles of worship and the content of sermons vary across different types of congregations.</span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="color: #5555ff; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 5px 5px 13px;" valign="top"><div style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Tuesday, February 16, 2021</strong></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">3:00 - 4:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 - 1:00 pm PT</p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="color: #5555ff; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 5px;" valign="top"><div style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit;">Presentation</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; line-height: inherit;">“Faith Among Black Americans”<br style="line-height: inherit;" /><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Dr. Besheer Mohamed</strong>, Pew Research Center<br style="line-height: inherit;" /><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Dr. Kiana Cox</strong>, Pew Research Center</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"> </p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit;">A discussion with</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: Arial; line-height: inherit;"><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Dr. W. Franklin Richardson, </strong>Conference of National Black Churches</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: Arial; line-height: inherit;"><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Prof. Cheryl Townsend Gilkes, </strong>Colby College<br style="line-height: inherit;" /><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Prof. Anthea Butler, </strong>University of Pennsylvania</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"> </p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit;">Followed by</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span color="inherit" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: Arial; line-height: inherit;">Q&A and discussion with the audience</span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border: 0px none; color: #5555ff; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 5px;" valign="top"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="line-height: inherit; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="line-height: inherit; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 10px; text-align: center;" valign="top"><table bgcolor="#deeaf6" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="yiv1651282103full-width" style="background-color: #deeaf6; border-radius: 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(88, 88, 90); line-height: inherit;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://aws.predictiveresponse.net/fwd.htm?redirect=https://forms.gle/ZNhmKYkppTMB3eCG8&utm_source=AdaptiveMailer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=REL%20-%2021-02-16%20Release%20Day%20Invitation%20Black%20Religion&org=982&lvl=100&ite=7915&lea=1730445&ctr=0&par=1&trk=" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="color: #5555ff; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; line-height: inherit; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span color="rgb(0, 0, 0) !important" style="border-bottom: none; font-family: arial; font-size: 17px; line-height: 17px;"><strong style="line-height: inherit;">Register Here</strong></span></a></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; color: #5555ff; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: inherit; text-align: center; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 0px;" valign="top"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="yiv1651282103email-root-wrapper" style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 600px; min-width: 240px; width: 600px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 0px;" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="line-height: inherit; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="line-height: inherit;"><tr style="line-height: inherit;"><td style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: inherit; outline: none; padding: 5px 5px 20px;" valign="top"><div style="line-height: 20px;"><p style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"></p><p style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">I hope that you will join me on this webinar for this enlightening and powerful discussion!</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Pastor Chris</span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org">www.shepastorchris.org</a></span></p></div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-82403396416881821152021-01-20T18:47:00.002-05:002021-01-20T18:57:49.608-05:00Shepastor: “Destiny…Providence…God’s Will…"<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEde5wCEZU76TPddAqSVQqYVDxERteczS9UlDkLaC3r2CScbHsfOxOzo0etXu7f9GRSI8LEXcDdPWEP71_acAsD10wEoghzCPsTlKjY5v2CWTwhElAyjtWzCRR8wGpWjKcBA0FQDnMMw/s346/For+such+a+time+as+this.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="346" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdEde5wCEZU76TPddAqSVQqYVDxERteczS9UlDkLaC3r2CScbHsfOxOzo0etXu7f9GRSI8LEXcDdPWEP71_acAsD10wEoghzCPsTlKjY5v2CWTwhElAyjtWzCRR8wGpWjKcBA0FQDnMMw/w407-h172/For+such+a+time+as+this.jpg" width="407" /></a></i></div><i><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">“…And who knoweth whether thou art come to the
kingdom for such a time as this?”</span></i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> Esther 4:
14b</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Due to a strange turn of events, Queen Vashti was
unjustly removed as Queen of Persia when she refused to perform lewd dancing
before her husband, King Ahasuerus and his drunken friends (Esther 1:1 and
following). Although she maintained her dignity, she has been maligned as a
rebellious wife and an arrogant woman (another blog for another day!!!). As a
result, the King began a search for a new Queen.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Long story short, a beautiful, “fresh” young lady
by the name of Esther was chosen. At the time, the King did not know that she
was a Jew. Eventually, she would be challenged to reveal her true identity when
her people were threatened with annihilation. Her uncle Mordecai urged her with
these words,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">“…And who knoweth whether thou art come to the
kingdom for such a time as this?”</span></i><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Esther 4:
14b<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Was it destiny? Was it providence? People of
faith declare, “It was God’s will, God’s purpose and God’s timing…” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Today our nation experienced another, “for such a
time as this” moment.</span></b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Following four years of turmoil, deep racial
divisions, “hyper other-ism,” tribalism and unprecedented deceit from a
presidential administration, <b>a new day has dawned in America! </b>Today, we
witnessed a “peaceful transition of power.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Today we witnessed the swearing in of the <b>first
African American/Southeast Asian Woman Vice President, in the person of Kamala
Harris</b>! Today we witnessed the first <b>African American man (Rev. Dr.
Raphael Warnock) and the first Jewish man (Jon Ossoff) sworn in as Senators of
Georgia</b>. Today we witnessed the <b>first National Youth Poet Laureate, in
the person of Amanda Gorman</b>! WHAT A HISTORIC DAY!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">But one of the most powerful things we witnessed
today was the swearing in of </span><b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">the </span></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg168Z55HUbj6sIYbcdcNmics1xXhYrbf8hqTOcQQvJhBH0RZvW1PNRrpRA4r83oHsJOmhjvcqqLQVITMRR1mISWdo-cw0kwmH9iW2brmJlR_0Ph1ZYLX9mdeh2yrAuzvdT2dhdTXrx64/s312/Trust+God+He+knows+what+He+is+doing.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="162" data-original-width="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg168Z55HUbj6sIYbcdcNmics1xXhYrbf8hqTOcQQvJhBH0RZvW1PNRrpRA4r83oHsJOmhjvcqqLQVITMRR1mISWdo-cw0kwmH9iW2brmJlR_0Ph1ZYLX9mdeh2yrAuzvdT2dhdTXrx64/s0/Trust+God+He+knows+what+He+is+doing.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"> oldest person to ever become President of
the United States of America, Joseph R. Biden, age 78!</span></b><span style="font-size: medium;"> His story is particularly
inspiring because of his life journey. A man who struggles with stuttering, a
man who came from “blue collar” America, a man who did not attend an ivy league
school, a man who lost his first wife and daughter on the week he was to be sworn
in as a U.S. Senator. </span><b><span style="font-size: medium;">He is a man who ran for the presidency no less than
three times (1988, 2008, 2020)!</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Many thought that he was too old. Many thought
that he couldn’t talk right. Many thought that he was not progressive enough. <b>You
name it, he was not the 1<sup>st</sup> choice…until now… </b>Now, Joe Biden became
just what our nation needed… a man filled with wisdom, dignity, calm, stability
and experience…a man who is respected on “both sides of the isle…” a man who
has a shot at bringing our country back together.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">What made the difference?</span></b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Did he change? Did he gain some different attributes? Did he
somehow get a makeover? <b>NO! The difference was God’s timing!<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">God’s timing is always different than our timing.
You may think that your time has passed. You may feel its too late. You may
have tried several times and failed. <b>But God has a time, a space and a place
where your gifts will shine through, your purpose will be made clear and your
new day will dawn!<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 14pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSPpssqu7ooPkzHH7bKA92AFlhU3XjmQdExR0plv4RqWWyQPsfAZpojT8MWjKJ1oG7YwKVhIiPjxWT_g0mZ-QaxDxku1yVJhm_TmwuRiagpw-LRtuFW8iXnqwcYoLSP9iReT6og4mBxs/s275/The+Lord+will+fulfill+His+purpose+for+you.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMSPpssqu7ooPkzHH7bKA92AFlhU3XjmQdExR0plv4RqWWyQPsfAZpojT8MWjKJ1oG7YwKVhIiPjxWT_g0mZ-QaxDxku1yVJhm_TmwuRiagpw-LRtuFW8iXnqwcYoLSP9iReT6og4mBxs/s0/The+Lord+will+fulfill+His+purpose+for+you.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">In the “fullness of time,” you will break out on
the left and the right! You will make the difference that you were called to
make. <b>YOU WILL fulfill all that God has ordained for you to accomplish. <o:p></o:p></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Don’t give up. Don’t be thwarted by the nay sayers.
Keep on doing what the Lord has made you to do. Be the best YOU that you can,
by the power of the Holy Ghost and God’s grace.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Your “for such a time as this,” will be revealed</span></b><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">In Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-87398013200185051572020-12-30T00:00:00.001-05:002020-12-30T00:00:02.423-05:00Shepastor: “As We March into the New Year…”<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"></span></sup></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaC4ZRLl_Uzw5GGWktR3ixa06OdL_MSCMGOLWBUoBuscB_kfzzwaPUq3e4oOnfGmeD4SZoEfhGas5D5U0lPqgUkVKR4KHPAl3MOWwP4Y1aOW6wbMDNDKfZa3lJxevTKZX-gTT_6qX1uA0/s272/Things+to+Remember+for+the+New+Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="185" data-original-width="272" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaC4ZRLl_Uzw5GGWktR3ixa06OdL_MSCMGOLWBUoBuscB_kfzzwaPUq3e4oOnfGmeD4SZoEfhGas5D5U0lPqgUkVKR4KHPAl3MOWwP4Y1aOW6wbMDNDKfZa3lJxevTKZX-gTT_6qX1uA0/w345-h234/Things+to+Remember+for+the+New+Year.jpg" width="345" /></a></i></div><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-size: 14pt; vertical-align: super;"><i><sup><span style="font-size: 14pt;">18 </span></sup></i></span><i style="font-size: 14pt; vertical-align: super;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Therefore
encourage one another with these words…</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt; vertical-align: super;"> </span></i></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>1<sup>st</sup> Thessalonians 4:18,
NIV</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">As
we march towards 2021, may we by faith remember the following…</span></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">God
is with us<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">We
must encourage, comfort and build up one another<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Our
peace is not of this world, it “surpasses understanding”<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">We
are more than conquerors through Him that loved us<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">We
can do all things through Christ that strengthens us<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Faith
is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen…<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Trust
God at all times<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Your
labor is not in vain…<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote></blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Be
encouraged!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Happy
New Year!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">In
Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pastor
Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-66170883790839694152020-12-16T00:00:00.003-05:002020-12-16T00:03:07.889-05:00Shepastor: “True Joy”<p><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRG8TexAodtDpqeoseQhr92mxgPhLdipvPDeNr1Asg2gT93CSK7CL8orV6o5wQAlfmWjH2LG11T94itjj4AZousSZbaACbw7wTsYBp_sQQVfTn6J4WSy5SREnxMrU66lF1n_QDgFkaOwI/s311/True+Joy.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="162" data-original-width="311" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRG8TexAodtDpqeoseQhr92mxgPhLdipvPDeNr1Asg2gT93CSK7CL8orV6o5wQAlfmWjH2LG11T94itjj4AZousSZbaACbw7wTsYBp_sQQVfTn6J4WSy5SREnxMrU66lF1n_QDgFkaOwI/w398-h207/True+Joy.png" width="398" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Galatians 5:22-23, NIV</span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><b><i><sup><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">22 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">But the fruit of the
Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><b><sup>23 </sup></b>gentleness and self-control.</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><b><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Nehemiah 8:10 NIV</span></i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Nehemiah said, "Go
and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing
prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the
LORD is your strength."</span></i> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">In observance of the <b>3<sup>rd</sup> week of Advent</b>,
today we turn our attention towards the topic of <b>Joy</b>. Some may ask the
question, “How can we discuss being joyful in the midst of all of this pain?”
The CDC has warned that we could see more than 3,000 deaths per day if the
COVID-19 pandemic is not controlled. Many are losing or have lost their jobs
and do not know how they can make it. Parents and teachers are struggling with
online learning. The list goes on and on. How and the world can we discuss
joy???<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">In Nehemiah 8:10, as the people of Israel listened
to the priest Ezra read from the book of the law from sunrise until noon, they
mourned their life circumstances. They were struggling to rebuild the city that
had been left in ruins after Babylonian captivity. They were struggling to rebuild
the wall around the city that was a source of protection and safety. </span><b style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">But more
than that, they were struggling to rebuild their faith and their damaged
relationship with God.</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">As Ezra read the sacred text, the people
mourned and wept. They wept because they had fallen away from righteous living.
They wept because of their sinful disobedience. And they wept because of the
consequences they faced as a result of their foolish, wicked and idolatrous
ways. Upon seeing their pain and grief over their past sins, Nehemiah, in so
many words told the people, “You can’t do anything about your past. Some of
this pain is due to the consequences of cultural and individual sin. </span><b style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt;">You can’t
change the past. But you can make up your mind right now to walk with God and
live consistently for Him! The joy of the LORD is your strength.”</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExV4BRV36V0_RAuDJz4v7btNTYt017xU74nLfyy4RERTyCIAcT_Ll-FWnZpT6fs3CX85rUu2ErKHYVYblWRvn-PddGQcffEqmCXAx3EUvv-T2E4LKvmHOvRnaeBW4qr71oa057IwqWn0/s225/Joy+in+Gods+Presence.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExV4BRV36V0_RAuDJz4v7btNTYt017xU74nLfyy4RERTyCIAcT_Ll-FWnZpT6fs3CX85rUu2ErKHYVYblWRvn-PddGQcffEqmCXAx3EUvv-T2E4LKvmHOvRnaeBW4qr71oa057IwqWn0/s0/Joy+in+Gods+Presence.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">This joy that Nehemiah spoke of had to be
deliberate.</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> It had to be a decision
to embrace the forgiveness, love and opportunities that God was offering them
at that moment. This understanding of
Joy transcends feel good emotions. It is
larger and more intent than happiness.
Happiness is based upon what is “happening.” <b>But “Joy” is based upon
our faith, hope and trust in Almighty God, no matter what is happening</b>. This
Joy produces strength, faith, hope, endurance and the blessed assurance that
the God we serve loves us unconditionally and wants us to move forward, no
matter how sordid or corrupt our pasts may have been. This joy reminds us that God is our refuge
and strength, a very present help in the time of trouble.</span><p></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The New Testament
Book of Galatians reminds us that <b>Joy is one of the “fruits of the </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTCq4ynPrF48RQyY7kGNWwzY6ayJGZFCYXAUIUD6fTV9Ggva8fIucl1h5CN8ZaCgKO9HEkICXjZr4WD6bUjK8x2y-WqPXE9Snhtlk-bywJRplY3i2jhYBOgDxvGMP-jF4QA6ZHJ124Ow/s300/Fruit+of+the+Spirit+Joy.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTCq4ynPrF48RQyY7kGNWwzY6ayJGZFCYXAUIUD6fTV9Ggva8fIucl1h5CN8ZaCgKO9HEkICXjZr4WD6bUjK8x2y-WqPXE9Snhtlk-bywJRplY3i2jhYBOgDxvGMP-jF4QA6ZHJ124Ow/s0/Fruit+of+the+Spirit+Joy.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Spirit.”</span></b><span style="font-size: medium;">
In other words, the child of God has a depth level peace, contentment and
assurance that no matter what life may bring, God is with us! </span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">Feelings will rise and fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><b>True joy,</b> however is a daily decision to remain focused upon the
God who is able to “keep us from falling and to present us faultless before His
presence with exceeding joy!” (Jude vs.24) <o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">True joy</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> is sustained within us when we purposefully, deliberately,
intentionally make the choice to see God in the midst of our every situation
and circumstance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">It
is the decision to trust God in all things, to praise God in all things and to
believe that God is with us and is available to help us not to slip back into
ungodly and destructive ways.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Depression,
oppression, perpetual sorrow, sadness and worry do not befit, suit or look good
on the child of God.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The oppression of
the enemy does not suit, befit or look good on the child of God because our God
is bigger than any trial, situation or circumstance that the enemy can throw at
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Emotional bondage, constant
complaining, constant drama in the life of the child of God is not befitting,
does not suit, does not look good on the child of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does not suit you!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">That does not mean
that we won’t experience sorrow or worry, or struggle or trials or
problems. <b>But what is means is that the
child of God walks in the conviction that “weeping may endure for a night, but
joy comes in the morning!”</b><b> </b> The child of
God walks in the blessed assurance that the Lord’s mercies are new every
morning – great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BT0RitaGuFhnQhHvhLepo-gCebg4H_HegH07VNHqGvNS749vMaX9f9LoDzQq8P9eo3WeA2Fn7SKaMphgTzUpyfy1Qrjug5DZ_G4Jl-qjKP5ESLMNfILWC3b9jhikwSLu-hZ75mfI6h8/s280/Joy+in+the+midst+of+suffering.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="280" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BT0RitaGuFhnQhHvhLepo-gCebg4H_HegH07VNHqGvNS749vMaX9f9LoDzQq8P9eo3WeA2Fn7SKaMphgTzUpyfy1Qrjug5DZ_G4Jl-qjKP5ESLMNfILWC3b9jhikwSLu-hZ75mfI6h8/w334-h215/Joy+in+the+midst+of+suffering.jpg" width="334" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The child of God
walks in the favor of God, knowing that everything is somehow going to work
together for our good.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Therefore, the
child of God “puts on” the garment of praise, and makes the bold declaration,
“I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my
mouth… and praises God in advance for His blessings and His deliverance.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The child of God lifts up holy hands, bows
down his or her head, shouts in triumph, plucks the strings of their hear and
declares, “be exalted, O God above my situation and circumstances – I will let
your glory be all over me!”<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The child of God
understands that God is mighty to save, that His compassions fail not, that He
is a provider, a keeper, a sustainer, a deliverer. <b>The child of God also understands that we are
the hands and the feet of Jesus.</b><b> </b> God
wants to use us to help relieve pain, to help feed the hungry, to help clothe
the naked – <b>Our joy in the Lord is obvious to all by the love and the care
and the compassion that we show.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">True Joy</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> gives more than just lip service, <b>true joy produces
“life service.”</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The way we walk, the
way we talk the way we treat people, the songs we sing, the love we show, the
compassion we give, the prayers we pray, the gifts and talents we share all are
examples of our joy!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">Be intentional about keeping
your joy.</span></b><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Resist the temptation to wallow in the past, </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGo-hpzig4SehvK4nsRf3nTD1vbrrl0yn4qZVd0HWcVZlFj7m4-dMIb2hRntaSh_9ElpQUSK-IiSqw4T-TxgyeUTmjJv0I2nrcVXrbwqTDeVtraTrcHlvEZAx0rkh_RCqhnGLMMI-Axy8/s262/Intentional+Joy.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="262" data-original-width="180" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGo-hpzig4SehvK4nsRf3nTD1vbrrl0yn4qZVd0HWcVZlFj7m4-dMIb2hRntaSh_9ElpQUSK-IiSqw4T-TxgyeUTmjJv0I2nrcVXrbwqTDeVtraTrcHlvEZAx0rkh_RCqhnGLMMI-Axy8/w213-h310/Intentional+Joy.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>in <span style="font-size: 14pt;">depression, in
self-pity, in anything that drains you of the strength and vitality available
to you through the love of God our Father, the grace of our elder brother,
Jesus Christ, and the sweet communion of the blessed Holy Spirit. </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Be
intentional about keeping your joy! </b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Put on the garments of Joy and Praise! </span><b style="font-size: 14pt;">Be
intentional about keeping your joy! </b><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Determine to keep your spirit filled
with the joy of the Lord and praise each day. May you walk by faith, continually
give God praise, live in peace and remain determined to keep your joy!</span><p></p><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">In Faith, Hope and Joy,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-88952752658244857772020-11-25T01:44:00.000-05:002020-11-25T01:44:58.578-05:00Shepastor: “Confident Thanksgiving and Praise”<p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnxohuf8b1v_lMzr9Xxbd1c9KGFQNlJHj9b1acmLKAuH0xsBoawvZtJo5KuGNbV3XHNKYKFJCWchdPV-zqIToz1WJsteZdahQGU_feUZgUtDDtANmDkYxxeePQxHaiB6MJSThCi9e1oo/s300/The+Power+of+Thanksgiving+and+Praise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnxohuf8b1v_lMzr9Xxbd1c9KGFQNlJHj9b1acmLKAuH0xsBoawvZtJo5KuGNbV3XHNKYKFJCWchdPV-zqIToz1WJsteZdahQGU_feUZgUtDDtANmDkYxxeePQxHaiB6MJSThCi9e1oo/w301-h194/The+Power+of+Thanksgiving+and+Praise.jpg" width="301" /></a></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Make
a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.</span></i></p></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">2 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Serve the Lord with
gladness: come before his presence with singing.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">3 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Know ye that
the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">4 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Enter into his
gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him,
and bless his name.<o:p></o:p></span></i></p></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">5 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">For the Lord is
good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Psalm 100, KJV<o:p></o:p></span></p></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> <br /></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">It is Thanksgiving week
in America. However, many may be struggling to be thankful in this season. Many
are struggling with the loss of loved ones, employment and “Covid fatigue.”
Frontline workers are exhausted, struggling as they work in over crowded hospital
wards, intubated patients, grieving families and limited PPE. Our Nation is
deeply divided over a plethora of issues. It’s a tough time! How do we “enter His
gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>Let’s consider the
following…</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>We serve a God that loves
and cares about us.</b><b> </b> The psalmist said,
“We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and
into His courts with praise. Be thankful
unto Him and bless His name. For the
Lord is good, his mercy is ever lasting and His truth endureth to all generations.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>We can thank God even
before we see the answer, because we have the confidence that He <i>is </i>the
answer.</b><b> </b> We have the confidence that God
can and will take care of His own. We
can thank and praise God with confidence because when we trust God, we know
that no matter what comes, God is going to carry us through. Yes, we face disappointments. Yes, we face trials and tribulations. Yes, we
have struggles and pain. But God carries
us through them all. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHov7-xOyi17qWJtC1K5fqKS5woWcCedYS-icPUXfXUeHSr3TtgVpEuAxG7axXYpl8MPKn2G34VxjXFb2Mmkwo8H7m6bHlMKylufZmPxB5Vw1MFVr9WYcWT89L06143vdOFllKKLwMNv8/s245/I+am+grateful+thanksgiving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="205" data-original-width="245" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHov7-xOyi17qWJtC1K5fqKS5woWcCedYS-icPUXfXUeHSr3TtgVpEuAxG7axXYpl8MPKn2G34VxjXFb2Mmkwo8H7m6bHlMKylufZmPxB5Vw1MFVr9WYcWT89L06143vdOFllKKLwMNv8/w271-h227/I+am+grateful+thanksgiving.jpg" width="271" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The child of God <i>will</i>
face trials and struggles, but the child of God knows that God is right there
by his or her side, leading, guiding, comforting, encouraging, loving,
supporting, providing, making a way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
promised never to leave us or forsake us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He promised to give us springs in the desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He promised to make the crooked places
straight and the rough places smooth in our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He promised that no weapon formed against us
would prosper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He promised that when the
enemy comes in like a flood, His Spirit would raise up a standard against him.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>God said, </b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-size: large;"><i>I am the
Lord that healeth thee.</i><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><i>Fear not, for I
have redeemed thee; I have called thee by thy name, thou art mine. </i><b style="font-style: italic;"><sup><span style="color: black;">2</span></sup></b></span><i><span style="font-size: large;"> When thou passest through the
waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow
thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned, neither
shall the flame kindle upon thee</span>. </i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Isaiah 43:1-2 (ASV)</span></blockquote><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>In other words, child of
God, there’s nothing that you will face in this life that God cannot see you
through.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may feel as though you
can’t make it, you can’t take it, but stand upon God’s Word and declare, “I can
do all things through Christ that strengthens me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes God changes our situation and
circumstances and sometimes God changes us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes God moves mountains and sometimes God moves us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes God heals our bodies, and sometimes
He simply heals our minds and spirits.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">God’s Word in Philippians
4 encourages us not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and
supplication, with thanksgiving, we should let our requests be made known unto
God. The promise is that the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will
keep our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>Today, I encourage you to
choose thanksgiving and praise.</b> Even in the midst of your struggle and trial, choose
confidently to bless and praise the Lord. Meditate upon all that you do have.
Honor the Lord for all that He has already carried you through. Thank Him for your
life. Praise Him for salvation. Trust Him for your future. <b>Be confident, not in
yourself, but in His faithfulness. God will carry you through!</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">This Thanksgiving and
always,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"></i><blockquote><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">May the Lord bless you
and keep you,</i><br /><i style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">May the Lord make His
face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you,</i><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><i>May the Lord lift up His
countenance upon you and give you peace.</i></span></p></blockquote><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><i></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">In Faith, Hope and
Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-89879231706499729592020-11-18T01:12:00.000-05:002020-11-18T01:12:16.334-05:00Shepastor: Master Class Highlights, "When God Sends Women..."<p> <b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">8 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. <b><sup>9 </sup></b>Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. <b><sup>10 </sup></b>Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Matthew 28: 8-10, NIV</b></span></p><p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2gNjO5hh1EiaYWbaFUfAS5QcGIxEWTvnxp9a1MD4qdwOwMwV-uMdR7RTDqvHiMYkbR-ntSujyLU5e3hLoAQgOH4glxxAyrl4T9CjF7w1kwjDAS4WX0EfAcpTo2WwhyphenhyphenhiBVyQdN5ILms/s1350/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Masterclass_When+God+Sends+Women+Nov+2020.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="431" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2gNjO5hh1EiaYWbaFUfAS5QcGIxEWTvnxp9a1MD4qdwOwMwV-uMdR7RTDqvHiMYkbR-ntSujyLU5e3hLoAQgOH4glxxAyrl4T9CjF7w1kwjDAS4WX0EfAcpTo2WwhyphenhyphenhiBVyQdN5ILms/w345-h431/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Masterclass_When+God+Sends+Women+Nov+2020.png" width="345" /></a></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Shepastor: “When God Sends Women…”</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbyyZnFFDq2yLxuCnUZz46yOoqfEKeQ9ddVwabTjSkFHBTjDGA268u_-ERZ-QhZOL4exEglRc_uOjnJ76kEKcKqJS3HFUR72HQP8EferNh3oEI9KkcZA9e9ykPUGaQe0cL9_9E35C87PY/s1897/When+God+Sends+Women+Flyer+Session+3+2020.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1897" data-original-width="1536" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbyyZnFFDq2yLxuCnUZz46yOoqfEKeQ9ddVwabTjSkFHBTjDGA268u_-ERZ-QhZOL4exEglRc_uOjnJ76kEKcKqJS3HFUR72HQP8EferNh3oEI9KkcZA9e9ykPUGaQe0cL9_9E35C87PY/w344-h424/When+God+Sends+Women+Flyer+Session+3+2020.jpg" width="344" /></a><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Jesus’ ministry was inclusive.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> He did not adhere to the societal norms that marginalized and disenfranchised people based upon their race, gender, religion or ethnicity. Jesus loves us. This particular passage of scripture shows how Jesus was not concerned about the fact that those who came to the tomb first were women. He did not dismiss them and say, “Go get men. These women can’t carry my message!” <br /><b>NO! Jesus entrusted the women with the first word from the tomb! “Tell them that I am ALIVE!!!”</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18.6667px;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">What an honor and blessing it was </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">to the meet each week, November 2nd, 9th and 16th, 2020, with BEAUTIFUL Sisters who came together to listen, share and participate in the 3 week Master Class, “When God Sends Women,” (Based upon my book, <i><a href="https://www.shepastorchris.org/my-book" target="_blank">Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling: Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors</a>, Judson Press, 2013) </i>on the weekly Zoom Women’s Ministry program, “Let’s Talk.” Women shared openly and transparently as we explored together the concept and realities of the “Stained Glass Ceiling.” </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">We discussed barriers spoken and unspoken, words of wisdom, caution and encouragement and the importance of ”allies and power brokers.” I owe a special debt of gratitude to Rev. </span></span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Jewel M.</span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;">London</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: times; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and Dr. </span><span style="font-family: times;">Carol Lynn Patterson </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: times; white-space: pre-wrap;">who invited me to teach the class and provided their platforms weekly for the sessions. They also embraced, advanced and continue to advocate for the <b><a href="https://abhms.org/ministry-opportunities/give-now-online/online-donation/" target="_blank">“Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling Endowment”</a></b> for African American Women Senior Pastors of small, struggling congregations. I also shout out Pastor Patty Harris for sharing her radio platform for the replays of the classes. You can still hear session 3 on “Free Your Mind,” (See flyer above). To God be the glory for the GREAT things He has done!!!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIaiScdUkT8qinVmRGn9Ye8-apGJwcxKrLadVnFZTBzVRUwi6uKDV1BLAdKJdqEgwLR67VKNim8IZO5Jevgvy8R7LHz0OwiblKGJAykR55kpL4tuydsfkHHxFnrhtW5O7ZF1DOvecjEc/s279/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Published+Cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="181" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIaiScdUkT8qinVmRGn9Ye8-apGJwcxKrLadVnFZTBzVRUwi6uKDV1BLAdKJdqEgwLR67VKNim8IZO5Jevgvy8R7LHz0OwiblKGJAykR55kpL4tuydsfkHHxFnrhtW5O7ZF1DOvecjEc/w246-h379/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Published+Cover.jpg" width="246" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">While the class was free, participants were encouraged to make a donation to the <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://abhms.org/ministry-opportunities/give-now-online/online-donation/">Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling Endowment</a> </i>(select the pull down menu and click on <b>ISOE Beyond the</b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Stained Glass Endowment</b>)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">. This fund was born out of a desire to help African American women pastors to survive and thrive. So often women in general and African American women in particular find themselves only receiving calls to “Lazarus” churches (learn more about that in the class!). This endowment will offer 2 grants per year to two selected pastors based upon the grant criteria.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;">During Session 3, we invited “allies and power brokers,” to join us. We were blessed by the presence and words of <b>Rev. Miriam Mendez</b>, Executive Minister of American Baptist Churches of New Jersey; <b>Rev. Jeffrey Johnson,</b> Senior Pastor of Eastern Star Church of Indianapolis; and. <b>Bro. </b></span><b>Vincent Dent</b>, Chief Development Officer of the American Baptist Home Missions Societies.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: times; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KltFmeTWHrCmDluPn2Va7YCJUk0zWLPDJdnvrKC7hXF5fqym-7Nn775LjfsjRscQmfD17qHWwe5O3EVUYqGgzp0n7E5PEubtezmRsSxGaOMuuu5DeMdmOG3yyGMXc40QRhtNGKDQi0E/s2010/Chris+and+Daddy+Lacy+at+Mt+Zion+Me+in+white+robe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1308" data-original-width="2010" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KltFmeTWHrCmDluPn2Va7YCJUk0zWLPDJdnvrKC7hXF5fqym-7Nn775LjfsjRscQmfD17qHWwe5O3EVUYqGgzp0n7E5PEubtezmRsSxGaOMuuu5DeMdmOG3yyGMXc40QRhtNGKDQi0E/w412-h268/Chris+and+Daddy+Lacy+at+Mt+Zion+Me+in+white+robe.jpg" width="412" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Each guest shared their own personal experiences as or with women in ministry, the authenticity of our calls, the importance and necessity of our leadership and the necessary response of the Church. I also thank my own spiritual father, my seminary pastor, the <b>Rev. Dr. Cleopatrick Lacy,</b> for speaking to us about his history of learning and serving alongside women in ministry, as well as the doors the Lord has blessed him to open for women pastors, including me!</span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><b>While the class has ended, the mission continues! </b>We praise God for those who not only verbally recognize, but support and advocate for the women God chooses to send! May we continue to press on, by faith!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="text-align: justify;">(To support the Stained-Glass Ceiling Endowed Fund give online at ABHMS and click the </span><a href="https://abhms.org/ministry-opportunities/give-now-online/online-donation/" style="text-align: justify;"><span>GIVE NOW</span></a><span style="text-align: justify;"> button and access the drop down menu and select <b><i>ISOE Stained Glass Endowment</i> or mail your check with “<i>Stained Glass Endowment”</i></b> in the memo section to: American Baptist Home Mission Societies, 1075 First Ave., King of Prussia, PA 19406. If you have any questions about giving, please contact ABHMS’ chief development officer, Vincent Dent at vincent.dent@abhms.org or 610.768.2420.)</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 14pt;">In faith, hope and perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 14pt;">Pastor Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-18078012007583427732020-10-28T02:22:00.002-04:002020-10-28T02:29:53.267-04:00Shepastor: "When God Sends Women..."<div class="separator"><p class="MsoNormal" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">8 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">So the women
hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his
disciples. <b><sup>9 </sup></b>Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he
said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. <b><sup>10 </sup></b>Then
Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go
to Galilee; there they will see me.”</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> <b>Matthew 28: 8-10, NIV<o:p></o:p></b></span></p></div><p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 18pt; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2gNjO5hh1EiaYWbaFUfAS5QcGIxEWTvnxp9a1MD4qdwOwMwV-uMdR7RTDqvHiMYkbR-ntSujyLU5e3hLoAQgOH4glxxAyrl4T9CjF7w1kwjDAS4WX0EfAcpTo2WwhyphenhyphenhiBVyQdN5ILms/s1350/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Masterclass_When+God+Sends+Women+Nov+2020.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2gNjO5hh1EiaYWbaFUfAS5QcGIxEWTvnxp9a1MD4qdwOwMwV-uMdR7RTDqvHiMYkbR-ntSujyLU5e3hLoAQgOH4glxxAyrl4T9CjF7w1kwjDAS4WX0EfAcpTo2WwhyphenhyphenhiBVyQdN5ILms/w320-h400/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Masterclass_When+God+Sends+Women+Nov+2020.png" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Shepastor:
“When God Sends Women…”</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Jesus’ ministry
was inclusive.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">
He did not adhere to the societal norms that marginalized and disenfranchised people
based upon their race, gender, religion or ethnicity. Jesus loves us. This
particular passage of scripture shows how Jesus was not concerned about the
fact that those who came to the tomb first were women. He did not dismiss them
and say, “Go get men. These women can’t carry my message!” <b>NO! Jesus
entrusted the women with the first word from the tomb! “Tell them that I am
ALIVE!!!”</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">In
the upcoming Master Class, <b>“When God Sends Women,” </b>I am privileged to
share the lessons from my book, <b><i>Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling:
Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors</i></b><i>.</i> The classes will
explore experiences of women pastors…words of wisdom, caution, encouragement
and insight. Classes will also highlight current and past trends regarding the
disparities and inequities women pastors face as they seek and answer pastoral
ministry calls. Participants will also have an opportunity to engage "Power Brokers," those who stand on "the other side of the door" and help advocate for women pastors!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIaiScdUkT8qinVmRGn9Ye8-apGJwcxKrLadVnFZTBzVRUwi6uKDV1BLAdKJdqEgwLR67VKNim8IZO5Jevgvy8R7LHz0OwiblKGJAykR55kpL4tuydsfkHHxFnrhtW5O7ZF1DOvecjEc/s279/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Published+Cover.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="181" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIaiScdUkT8qinVmRGn9Ye8-apGJwcxKrLadVnFZTBzVRUwi6uKDV1BLAdKJdqEgwLR67VKNim8IZO5Jevgvy8R7LHz0OwiblKGJAykR55kpL4tuydsfkHHxFnrhtW5O7ZF1DOvecjEc/w257-h396/Beyond+the+Stained+Glass+Ceiling+Published+Cover.jpg" width="257" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">While
the class is free, participants are encouraged to make a donation to the <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://abhms.org/ministry-opportunities/give-now-online/online-donation/">Beyond
the Stained Glass Ceiling Endowment</a> </i>(select the pull down menu and click on <b>ISOE Beyond the</b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Stained Glass
Endowment</b>)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">.
This fund was born out of a desire to help African American women pastors to
survive and thrive. So often women in general and African American women in
particular find themselves only receiving calls to “Lazarus” churches (learn
more about that in the class!). This endowment will offer 2 grants per year to
two selected pastors based upon the grant criteria.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
thank my wonderful and beautiful Clergy Sisters, Rev. Jewel M. London and Rev.
Dr. Carol L. Patterson</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> for inviting me to teach this class. These GREAT
Women of God are doing PHENOMENAL THINGS in the Kingdom and are truly lifting
others as they climb.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Register
for the class, <b>“When God Sends Women”</b> featured on “Let’s Talk,” today!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Follow
the links below to purchase the book and to register for the class...<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please
join us for a 3-week Master Class (Mondays, November 2<sup>nd</sup>, 9<sup>th</sup>,
and 16<sup>th</sup>, 8:00 p.m., EST) for women called to Pastor. The class is based on <i>Beyond
the Stained Glass Ceiling: Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors</i>. Please
order your book directly from the author and facilitator, Pastor Christine A.
Smith (Let's Talk Week 5). <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Master
Class begins Monday, November 2 so click here to Order Book today - <a href="http://shepastorchris.org/my-book?fbclid=IwAR3YsjihDm5q9a_SQ9a-FaoMOUSzMo6OMgkwM5z1h2x3ZgHE-cOmbn_KtjM" target="_blank"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: blue; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">shepastorchris.org/my-book</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; margin: 0in 0in 0in 0.5in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Click
Here to Register for the Master Class: "When God Sends Women" <a href="https://bit.ly/CTPMasterClass?fbclid=IwAR3YsjihDm5q9a_SQ9a-FaoMOUSzMo6OMgkwM5z1h2x3ZgHE-cOmbn_KtjM" target="_blank"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: blue; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">http://bit.ly/CTPMasterClass</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; text-align: justify;">(To support the
Stained-Glass Ceiling Endowed Fund give online at ABHMS and click the </span><a href="https://abhms.org/ministry-opportunities/give-now-online/online-donation/" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">GIVE NOW</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; text-align: justify;"> button and access the drop down
menu and select <b><i>ISOE Stained Glass Endowment</i> or mail your check with
“<i>Stained Glass Endowment”</i></b> in the memo section to: American Baptist
Home Mission Societies, 1075 First Ave., King of Prussia, PA 19406. If you have
any questions about giving, please contact ABHMS’ chief development officer,
Vincent Dent at vincent.dent@abhms.org or 610.768.2420.)</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">In
faith, hope and perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;">Pastor
Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/">www.shepastorchris.org</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385876778990619768.post-11249462925463122652020-10-07T00:00:00.001-04:002020-10-07T00:00:08.813-04:00Shepastor: “Six Reasons Why We Should Vote…”<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fJ2nTmlKAsLyE6ZUIG6TBJUzrSnGU_YIzX6JK19o23bHDgugx6oSz8d3m8E1g6DIbrAb4c439IFZNY6CFKo6N-ZONzg-WuZfmFvxbmSiyvXHZ4dW3tGUPuQFQ5aa5Kcdks5Gjr8IeDA/s269/Vote+like+your+life+depends+on+it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="187" data-original-width="269" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fJ2nTmlKAsLyE6ZUIG6TBJUzrSnGU_YIzX6JK19o23bHDgugx6oSz8d3m8E1g6DIbrAb4c439IFZNY6CFKo6N-ZONzg-WuZfmFvxbmSiyvXHZ4dW3tGUPuQFQ5aa5Kcdks5Gjr8IeDA/w371-h258/Vote+like+your+life+depends+on+it.jpg" width="371" /></a></p><br />
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Jeremiah
29:7 Common English Bible (CEB)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><i><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">7 </span></sup></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Promote the
welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile. Pray to
the Lord for it, because your future depends on its welfare.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> Jeremiah 29:7,
CEB<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The
year 2020 has been a challenging, strange and painful year for many, to say the
least. To date, over 210 thousand people in America have succumbed to COVID-19.
Many small businesses and individuals have been devastated by the economic
avalanche prompted by the pandemic. Families have not been able to mourn and
celebrate the lives of loved ones who have died in the ways to which they are
accustomed, honoring their sacred traditions. Many places of worship have had
to shift from in person worship to some form of technological means. The nation
is deeply divided along racial, theoretical, economical and ethical lines.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_2" o:spid="_x0000_s1027"
type="#_x0000_t75" style='position:absolute;margin-left:310.2pt;margin-top:42.2pt;
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o:title=""/>
<w:wrap type="square"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">On top of all of
this, we are in the throws of one of the most contentious presidential
elections in modern history. Many are so exhausted and daunted that they are
losing hope. Numbers of young people are looking on in disbelief. Some have
even suggested that their votes will not matter. But before you join the
“What’s the point” club, consider the following reasons why we all should vote…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zxF9kLsZocndQJVFE0so1PgCV3vKd3HV5wdEZAbMKzzfnDI6oqJnnbF29GtNbKJApjqgx_frwLN5MnDfFN2RblUyBN552vSjAaYOeeLew63K3EpWmsaMxMCMUQHcCfvjxRm7R915nfY/s259/Dont+sit+this+one+out+vote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="259" data-original-width="194" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zxF9kLsZocndQJVFE0so1PgCV3vKd3HV5wdEZAbMKzzfnDI6oqJnnbF29GtNbKJApjqgx_frwLN5MnDfFN2RblUyBN552vSjAaYOeeLew63K3EpWmsaMxMCMUQHcCfvjxRm7R915nfY/w219-h292/Dont+sit+this+one+out+vote.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> 1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Voting is your way
of having a say…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> When you cast your vote for presidential candidates, judges, levy’s, council
representatives, and any number of issues, you are adding your voice of
agreement or disagreement. Your vote could literally change the course of
history! When you neglect voting, you are voting by default!<b><o:p></o:p></b></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> 2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Voting is your
responsibility as a citizen…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> Everyone can complain. Everyone can talk
about what is wrong. But when we vote, we participate in the election process.
When we don’t vote, we have no right to complain about the way things are. To
be a responsible citizen is to take part in the process.</span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> <br /></o:p></span></b></p>
<div style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">3<b>. Voting empowers
you to help make a difference</b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">In the words of our focus scripture
verse, </span><b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Promote the welfare of the City…”</b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> When we vote, we have an
opportunity to promote, move forward and positively influence the places where
we reside. Issues regarding health care, jobs, wages, fair and equal standards,
diversity, immigration, the environment, education, etc., all rely upon the
voices of the people. Congress is moved by their electorate. They represent us!
When we don’t vote, we leave them to their own devices and those of the
lobbyists. Money, not your best interests govern.</span></div>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">People died so
that we could vote…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
Blood was shed. Bodies were beaten. People mobilized and marched. Individuals
were attacked by dogs, blasted by water hoses, burned, lynched, humiliated,
jailed…all so that all citizens in America would have the right to vote. <b>Voting
rights were EXPENSIVE to obtain</b>. We must honor, be grateful for and
appreciate this right, not only with words, but with the action of voting.</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8emniiQiflfiKRD4ZQpeqxts6xdvLtxfDmPqCiNj7YPbc2Obgz8dfIVpu3Y3BcDBhxZJjZ8Heqf-F1VEscs2uieIgNhEL4mBOaNwi4Hf2eqL9LBPsg1_qJT2i3sOgW8rX4TWdejolZe4/s277/Every+Vote+Counts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8emniiQiflfiKRD4ZQpeqxts6xdvLtxfDmPqCiNj7YPbc2Obgz8dfIVpu3Y3BcDBhxZJjZ8Heqf-F1VEscs2uieIgNhEL4mBOaNwi4Hf2eqL9LBPsg1_qJT2i3sOgW8rX4TWdejolZe4/s0/Every+Vote+Counts.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> 5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">People die
unnecessarily when we don’t vote…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> There are those who suggest that young
people aren’t moved by the reality that people died for their right to vote. <b>If
you feel that way you must consider that people are dying unnecessarily when you
don’t vote</b>. We need your voices to help demolish antiquated, unjust, racist
systems that perpetuate models of brutality and death. We need your votes to
help improve upon and expand systems that show promise, but need an overhaul.
You need to vote, if for no other reason, than that you should be concerned
about the country and the planet that will be left for you.</span><p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></i><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">You should vote
because your life depends upon it…</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">The Lord told Jeremiah to tell the people,
<i>“Pray to the Lord for it, because your future depends on its welfare…”
</i>Your future, our future and our welfare, our wellbeing, our prosperity, our
health depends upon the communities, nation and world we build. Here in
America, that is determined by our vote. <b>Our prayers must be coupled with
our action of voting.</b> Some will argue that the Electoral College makes the
determination and not our vote. But remember, the Electoral College is <i>influenced</i>
by our vote. When we vote in mass, we can far surpass the 270 electoral votes
for a president to win. Also remember, the president is only one branch of a
three-branch government (Executive, Legislative and Judicial). Even when our
preferred leader does not win, we can still influence outcomes by having a
balanced legislative branch (the House and the Senate).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Use
your voice. VOTE!!!<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">In
Faith, Hope and Perseverance,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pastor
Chris<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.shepastorchris.org/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">www.shepastorchris.org</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16429236141587234665noreply@blogger.com0