2 corinthians 1:2 our God gives you everything you need, makes you everything you are to be - the message bible
i know, i know... to all you 'backseat' doctors and nurses, i should be in the bed and asleep if not just resting after being released from the hospital today BUT i was awakened and summoned to let this one flow... i tried to turn back over but... i tried to take a bathroom break and shrug it off but... i tried to raid the fridge (tony and those frosted flakes were callin my name... al! ....al!) and go back 2 bed but...
so since im here, up and typing here is whats in my spirit... i fell asleep praying, thanking God for the day, the events this weekend and my life. in that, i saw off my mom and lil sister back to houston, noted and thanked God for all who reached out, called, texted, emailed and did anything for me while i was going thru this weekend and last night... i am so sentimental, emotional, thankful and greatful for many things, but most importantly, relationship.
i am thankful for relationships on all levels. aquaintances, friendly, familial and personal.
while talking to a pastor friend of mine on saturday night, supporting each other in sermon preparation and encouraging each other for sunday morning, he shared with me this scripture. 2 corinthians 1:2 in the message bible.
well, needless to say, i viewed all events this weekend thru the positive prism of this scripture. God gives us everythng we need and makes us everything we are to be. wow! simply wow! what a positive, affirming, reaffirming and confirming scripture.
it is a statement of surety. it is a statement of certainty. what God has for me it is for me. whom God has for me to be, i will become. i have it all. i am goin to be all.
i can be sure that whatever transpires in my life, i am SURE God is going to give me what i need! no doubt, no defeat (in the words of my father... no negotiation, debate or discussion!). its a done deal. he will give what i need. i got what i need, because ive got him. i do not just have the resource, but i a connect with the source himself!
i can be sure that whatever transpires in my life, i am CERTAIN Godis going to make me who i am to be. i will transform. i will come into my own. you will mature into the man God has for you to be. you will grow into the woman God has for you to be. i am glad that it is God and not i, that will perform and bring to pass what he has put in me.
well, my spirit and thoughts expanded into the realm of interpersonal relationships between men and women in particular.
three things just kept ringing in my spirit and the bell got louder as the night got older... in a nutshell and outline form, here is what is in my spirit mind...
God will give... everything that i need
resources that will sustain / for what you need to accomplish
God will give... everything that i want
relationship that is specific / for you to you
God will give... everthing that i am to do
reason that is significant / for the specific relationship / for his sovereign will, wants and design
this is played out in the opening pages of Genesis in the garden with adam and eve.
resources. everything i need. God gave adam a garden. an entire area filled with resources. God gave adam animals, trees and land. each supporting and sustaining the life of the other. each interdependent on the other. the land fed the trees and the animals. the trees fed the animals and the man. and then the cycle comes full circle and commences again. it is what i like to call 'circular support.' each kept giving to the gain of the next. adam had all he needed to support himself and then some, including his future.
men, here me now. God gives what we need not just for us, but to support our future. the resources are for us and for beyond us. he had enough for himself and for whom God was about to send him and for what they were both assigned to do.
relationship. everything i want. God gave adam eve. note God did not give adam samantha or nicole. God gave adam eve. eve was specifically for adam. adam had it all in the garden God gave, except the intimate interpersonal relationship one needs with another in order to become all that they are to be. remember, the bible says in genesis that eve was to be adams help meet, help mate, a mate who helps.
note: sometimes in life, whom we so desire and are focused on 'being there' for us may not just be whom God has in mind and in store to 'be there' for us. so many times we bump heads with God because of our selfish desires and limited vision for our lives. we so often live in the now and the sensual. those things we can see, feel, taste and hear. however, God works in the spiritual, knowing whats best beyond our selfish senses. sometimes he will take somebody out of our lives in order to accomplish his will in our lives. he may bring them back or he may not. in the meantime, we are to remain faithful and stay righteous, just as adam did, until God moves again. then we are to be receptive and excited about what he does in our lives. whether it is to reconnect or to release, it is our responsibility to recieve his will for our lives.
God gave adam eve, who had the spirit and skill, as a matter of fact, the right spirit and requisite skill sets to be what adam needed her to be. there is someone out there who is a compliment to you and not a competition. there is someone out there who is a support and not strain. there is someone out there who is an encourager and not an endangerer. there is someone out there who will route for you, cheer for you, talk you up and push you along. there is someone out there who will lift you and not let you fall. there is someone who will respect you and not disrespect you. there is someone just for you.
reason. everything i am to do. God gave adam and eve a reason. together they were to tender the garden, be fruitful and multiply and have constant, intimate relationship with God himself. now this for us today is not about the technical specific instructions as much as it is to find your place in life with another whom God has given you to accomplish the assignment God has given you both.
in a larger sense, we are all to do and be what both adam and eve were. we are to first be responsible with what God has given us. we are to multiply, grow or mature what God has given us, outside and inside of us. we are treasure, invest and relish in the relationship we have with him as well, primarily.
i am thankful for the opportunities in my life to do just these things with whom i was in relationship with. i long and look forward to be able to share and give in this type of relationship even now. when it happens, it is goin to be on and poppin! ...me and her, like thicke, u got it, i got it, we got that magic yeah! (gotta be up on it to know what that is! ha!)
i am back to where i started now... God gives you everything you need, makes you everything you are to be.
everything means lacking nothing. nothing. no - thing and no - one.... there is so much i want to say about this, but just not in this note. though like general patton, i shall return. sleep is creeping up on me now. time for a breathing treatment as i watch the end of law & order and doze off into the early morning night. i hear the sheep now...
goodnite all. goodnite love.
agape,
pastor p
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
backdraft
there is a term in the fire fighting world that describes the very dangerous effect called a 'backdraft.' a backdraft is a situation which can occur when a fire is starved of oxygen; consequently combustion ceases but the fuel gases and smoke remain at high temperature. If oxygen is re-introduced to the fire, eg. by opening a door to a closed room, combustion can restart often resulting in an explosive effect as the gases heat and expand.
well, i wrote a note two days ago entitled 'tests and trials.' as a result of this note, i have recieved 'backdraft' on today. on my pastoral anniversary of all days. on a day of remembering, acknowledgment and celebration, comes combustible backdraft from a person i've sacrificed for and given my heart to (by the way, let me stop here and say be careful who you give your heart to. it is precious and has no defense). i was hoping for a word of encouragement or an expression of love from this person on today, however that was not the case. isnt it strange that the people you give the most to and sacrifice the most for are usually the ones to hurt you the most and on the deepest level. so now, even after being falsely accused in the middle of the night the other night, now i am being ridiculed and reprimanded on today. when will it ever end? or when will people ever change? when will people start to see, think and speak the good they have experienced or even the good they desire instead of looking for, thinking and speaking the negative the majority of the time? ...
note: we create the world we live in by the words we speak. just as God did in genesis chapter one when creating the world. he spoke it into being. the atmosphere responds to our announcements (a heart responds and resonates with what it hears). what we speak is a result of what we think. so what we think is ultimately the structure of our words and therefore the structure of our worlds. the Word itself says in proverbs 23:7 that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.
i have learned that what is in us will come out of us. proverbs 4:23-24.
i have also learned that you cannot change people. we are who we are and will continue to be ourselves until we are willing and ready to change. i have been here myself and see it in others all the time. so what do you do in the meantime?
well, when people lash out at you, more often than not, they are unhappy within themselves. someone once said, hurting people hurt people. few will ever admit it, so dont expect them to, but at least you know where they are more than likely coming from and can respond accordingly, Biblically. the Word says to love, bless, do good to and pray for those that do you wrong - matthew 5:44... just as Jesus did in his life and even more poignantly as he gave example of doing while being led to calvary and on the cross.
i know, i know, it is hard to do. it takes a second thought, and sometimes a third or fourth, because we in and of ourselves want to lash out, get back, set straight and prove them wrong, while at the same time prove ourselves right. it is the natural sinful self way. it is what theologians call the 'adamic nature.' it is the adam in us. the orginal sin from the orginal sinner showing up and showing out in us. however, it is not Gods way or design or desire. therefore, it is not blessed when we do it nor will it bring blessing to our lives. as a matter of fact, we lose all the 'inner spirit' blessings when we do. the 'inner spirit' blessings are found in galatians 5:22-23. conversely, we gain the 'inner spirit' blessings when we respond Godly according to the Word.
try not to take it personal. spritually, its really not them, but the enemy having his way with them. i know it is almost impossible to do because that is the way we immediately feel, but God will give you the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to do so, moment by moment. however, it is a choice. we choose to act and either react or respond in the manner that we do (oh, how many times have i written an email but deleted it. typed a text but changed it before sending it or even just caught my thoughts before they became words in a conversation knowing once they were out i could never take them back in). it is all a choice. it is our choice to put down and speak down to others as much it is our choice to empathize with and encourage others.
remember, what you do to others will eventually come back around full circle and be done to you. so if you lie on somebody, you will be lied on. if you cheat on somebody, expect to be cheated on. if you talk down to people, dont be surprised when somebody talks down to you. yet, if you encourage, support and love on someone, look forward to love, support and encouragement coming back to you, and usually when you least expect it but also when you need it the most. our actions have reactions. our seeds sown will bring a harvest to reap. so often i heard growing up this phrase, 'sow the wind and reap the whirlwind.' meaning, whatever you sow, no matter how little it may be (as a seed is), when it comes back around to you, it will come back in a multiplied form, lots more of (as a harvest is)!
if you want love, sow love. if you want encouragement, speak encouragement. if you want money, give money. if you want a friend, be a friend. remember, the 'backdraft' is coming. and it will 'explode' into your life! so fuel your fire with good and Godly thoughts, words and actions and watch God bless you in like manner in return.
i encourage you today to show love and not hate. show compassion and not disdain. give warmth and kindness and not be cold and condemning. you never know what tomorrow will bring. just think, what if it were the last conversation you where to have, or the last time you were to hear their voice or the last time you were to see them? what if? what memory will they be left with? what words will they hear ringing in their mind over and over again? what feeling will they have everytime they think of you? treat others the exact way you want to be treated, along with giving them what they need, and watch the change effect in your own life! ...ok, thats enough for now. gotta run, entourage is on!
your future is much greater than your past!
remember, you are greatly blessed, highly favored and deeply loved!
agape,
pastor p
well, i wrote a note two days ago entitled 'tests and trials.' as a result of this note, i have recieved 'backdraft' on today. on my pastoral anniversary of all days. on a day of remembering, acknowledgment and celebration, comes combustible backdraft from a person i've sacrificed for and given my heart to (by the way, let me stop here and say be careful who you give your heart to. it is precious and has no defense). i was hoping for a word of encouragement or an expression of love from this person on today, however that was not the case. isnt it strange that the people you give the most to and sacrifice the most for are usually the ones to hurt you the most and on the deepest level. so now, even after being falsely accused in the middle of the night the other night, now i am being ridiculed and reprimanded on today. when will it ever end? or when will people ever change? when will people start to see, think and speak the good they have experienced or even the good they desire instead of looking for, thinking and speaking the negative the majority of the time? ...
note: we create the world we live in by the words we speak. just as God did in genesis chapter one when creating the world. he spoke it into being. the atmosphere responds to our announcements (a heart responds and resonates with what it hears). what we speak is a result of what we think. so what we think is ultimately the structure of our words and therefore the structure of our worlds. the Word itself says in proverbs 23:7 that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.
i have learned that what is in us will come out of us. proverbs 4:23-24.
i have also learned that you cannot change people. we are who we are and will continue to be ourselves until we are willing and ready to change. i have been here myself and see it in others all the time. so what do you do in the meantime?
well, when people lash out at you, more often than not, they are unhappy within themselves. someone once said, hurting people hurt people. few will ever admit it, so dont expect them to, but at least you know where they are more than likely coming from and can respond accordingly, Biblically. the Word says to love, bless, do good to and pray for those that do you wrong - matthew 5:44... just as Jesus did in his life and even more poignantly as he gave example of doing while being led to calvary and on the cross.
i know, i know, it is hard to do. it takes a second thought, and sometimes a third or fourth, because we in and of ourselves want to lash out, get back, set straight and prove them wrong, while at the same time prove ourselves right. it is the natural sinful self way. it is what theologians call the 'adamic nature.' it is the adam in us. the orginal sin from the orginal sinner showing up and showing out in us. however, it is not Gods way or design or desire. therefore, it is not blessed when we do it nor will it bring blessing to our lives. as a matter of fact, we lose all the 'inner spirit' blessings when we do. the 'inner spirit' blessings are found in galatians 5:22-23. conversely, we gain the 'inner spirit' blessings when we respond Godly according to the Word.
try not to take it personal. spritually, its really not them, but the enemy having his way with them. i know it is almost impossible to do because that is the way we immediately feel, but God will give you the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to do so, moment by moment. however, it is a choice. we choose to act and either react or respond in the manner that we do (oh, how many times have i written an email but deleted it. typed a text but changed it before sending it or even just caught my thoughts before they became words in a conversation knowing once they were out i could never take them back in). it is all a choice. it is our choice to put down and speak down to others as much it is our choice to empathize with and encourage others.
remember, what you do to others will eventually come back around full circle and be done to you. so if you lie on somebody, you will be lied on. if you cheat on somebody, expect to be cheated on. if you talk down to people, dont be surprised when somebody talks down to you. yet, if you encourage, support and love on someone, look forward to love, support and encouragement coming back to you, and usually when you least expect it but also when you need it the most. our actions have reactions. our seeds sown will bring a harvest to reap. so often i heard growing up this phrase, 'sow the wind and reap the whirlwind.' meaning, whatever you sow, no matter how little it may be (as a seed is), when it comes back around to you, it will come back in a multiplied form, lots more of (as a harvest is)!
if you want love, sow love. if you want encouragement, speak encouragement. if you want money, give money. if you want a friend, be a friend. remember, the 'backdraft' is coming. and it will 'explode' into your life! so fuel your fire with good and Godly thoughts, words and actions and watch God bless you in like manner in return.
i encourage you today to show love and not hate. show compassion and not disdain. give warmth and kindness and not be cold and condemning. you never know what tomorrow will bring. just think, what if it were the last conversation you where to have, or the last time you were to hear their voice or the last time you were to see them? what if? what memory will they be left with? what words will they hear ringing in their mind over and over again? what feeling will they have everytime they think of you? treat others the exact way you want to be treated, along with giving them what they need, and watch the change effect in your own life! ...ok, thats enough for now. gotta run, entourage is on!
your future is much greater than your past!
remember, you are greatly blessed, highly favored and deeply loved!
agape,
pastor p
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Thankful
I am thankful...
4 God
4 Jesus
4 the Holy Spirit
4 amazing, loving and sacrifical parents
4 a dad who sacrifices and for a mom who nutures
4 a supportive and loving brother and sister
4 a gracious extended family
4 the Word
4 a wonderful 'home' church
4 all the people who call The Love Church their spiritual home
4 friends. real true genuine friends who have always been there, even when i didnt see them and never left
4 non judgmental family, friends and people n my life
4 blue sky
4 green grass
4 cool breezes
4 white sand beaches
4 water... i love the water! i want 2 live on some water
4 jets skis.... yes, jet skis
4 the cry of a new born baby
4 the smell of clean after a short summer rain
4 aromatic candles
4 a meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite
4 the electricity in a loving and knowing touch
4 the sensuality in a kiss
4 the warmth in a hug
4 a look that speaks volumes, silently
4 the feeling after a good 'shout' in church
i am thankful...
4 those who walked away
4 those who came 2 stay
4 those who walked away, recognized, apologized and came back... these r the ones i trust
4 those who are still in my life
4 those encouraged me
4 those who convicted me
i am thankful...
4 all my infirmities
4 all my infalities
4 they make me more of the person i am 2 become
i am thankful...
4 every hurt, pain and tear, because it only made things clear
i am thankful...
4 the word love
4 the noun love
4 the verb love
4 the feeling of love
4 the ability 2 love
4 the expressions of love
4 the experience in love
4 those who gave me love
4 those who loved me inspite of me, even 4 those who took their love away
i am thankful...
4 His virgin birth
4 His sinless life
4 His vicarious death
4 His borrowed burial
4 His overcoming resurrection
4 His triumphant ascension
4 His ultimate return
i am thankful...
4 forgiveness
4 the blood
i am thankful...
4 that which money cannot buy
4 which the body cannot
which the mind cannot reason
4 which emotions cannot corral
i am thankful...
4 that which we cannot see, that is most powerful and meaningful 2 me, the supernaturaland
4 that i am most thankful
Thank you Jesus!
4 God
4 Jesus
4 the Holy Spirit
4 amazing, loving and sacrifical parents
4 a dad who sacrifices and for a mom who nutures
4 a supportive and loving brother and sister
4 a gracious extended family
4 the Word
4 a wonderful 'home' church
4 all the people who call The Love Church their spiritual home
4 friends. real true genuine friends who have always been there, even when i didnt see them and never left
4 non judgmental family, friends and people n my life
4 blue sky
4 green grass
4 cool breezes
4 white sand beaches
4 water... i love the water! i want 2 live on some water
4 jets skis.... yes, jet skis
4 the cry of a new born baby
4 the smell of clean after a short summer rain
4 aromatic candles
4 a meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite
4 the electricity in a loving and knowing touch
4 the sensuality in a kiss
4 the warmth in a hug
4 a look that speaks volumes, silently
4 the feeling after a good 'shout' in church
i am thankful...
4 those who walked away
4 those who came 2 stay
4 those who walked away, recognized, apologized and came back... these r the ones i trust
4 those who are still in my life
4 those encouraged me
4 those who convicted me
i am thankful...
4 all my infirmities
4 all my infalities
4 they make me more of the person i am 2 become
i am thankful...
4 every hurt, pain and tear, because it only made things clear
i am thankful...
4 the word love
4 the noun love
4 the verb love
4 the feeling of love
4 the ability 2 love
4 the expressions of love
4 the experience in love
4 those who gave me love
4 those who loved me inspite of me, even 4 those who took their love away
i am thankful...
4 His virgin birth
4 His sinless life
4 His vicarious death
4 His borrowed burial
4 His overcoming resurrection
4 His triumphant ascension
4 His ultimate return
i am thankful...
4 forgiveness
4 the blood
i am thankful...
4 that which money cannot buy
4 which the body cannot
which the mind cannot reason
4 which emotions cannot corral
i am thankful...
4 that which we cannot see, that is most powerful and meaningful 2 me, the supernaturaland
4 that i am most thankful
Thank you Jesus!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
where are the michelle obamas?
i am watching these democratic national convention proceedings (note: i was supposed 2 b there 2morrow with friends n celebration of such a historic occassion but im home debating goin 2 the ER 2nite) 4 reasons other than choosing a candidate 2 vote 4. i am observing these goings on 2 take note of the human condition and importance and influence of interpersonal relationships, both good and bad.
let me say this up front, i am simply enamored with michelle obama and her very public, visible and without shame or fear, reverence, respect and deep love 4 her husband barack. her public displays of affection. it is simply enthralling 2 watch her eyes light up and her smile widen and beam like a ray of sunshine after a short light rain that clears the air, when he enters the room, or n this case, pepsi field.
as i watched her response and reaction 2 him, i sat n envy and n wonton desire 2 have such a woman who would act n such a way 2 me. she alone, n a crowd of thousands, was his biggest cheerleader and most ardent fan. nobody smiled wider, nobody clapped harder, nobody cheered louder, nobody was up on their feet quicker, nobody looked prouder than michelle obama. i bet when barack entered 2nite at the end of bidens speech, if she could have jumped the rafters and bolted down 2 the stage 2 engulf her man with a full body hug and congratulatory kiss, she would have. the power of non verbal communication is incalcuable and priceless.
now catch this, she is accomplished n her own right. all by herself. intelligent. articulate. stylish. charismatic. confident. harvard trained, yet she still deferes 2 her man. she still looks @ him like he is the next best thing since sliced bread. she still touches him like they r teenagers n puppy love. she still smiles, looks him n the eye and listens when he speaks.
all women should take note and keep reference. i believe @ least half of the reason mr barack is where he is 2day, if not more, is because of the 'backing' of mrs michelle, not the berating. 2 many women tear their men down n private, disrespect their men n public and wontoningly carry on about their men 2 his face on a daily basis and wonder why he is the way he is, and things r the way they r. if u want 2 get there n life, wherever there is 4 u, get urself 2gether, find ur place and do ur man right!... u just might end up being 'first lady.'
women, u must understand that u have miraculous powers. u can either build a man up or tear a man down. u can either raise a man 2 heights he has never known or drown a man 2 depths he has never seen, simply by ur support or non-support, both verbal and nonverbal. most macho men will never admit this without being threatened but... a woman has the power 2 lift a man or let him fall. a woman has the power 2 push a man forward or drag a man backward.
even the Bible says n Proverbs (21:9) that it is better 2 live on a corner of the roof than 2 share a house with a quarreling woman!
her actions and words r the catalyst 4 us 2 compete, the encouragement 4 us 2 engage, the power 4 us 2 perform and the will 4 us 2 war! so often we get and gain our inner strength, speaking humanly now, from the woman who believes n us, despite us. she knows us yet she has faith n us. if she says we can, we believe we can and most times we do. there r fewer sweeter words than 'honey, i believe n u!' the lights can be cut off, the car can repossessed and the house can be foreclosed on, but if she says everything is alright, i know ur doing ur best and things will get better, i am with u to the end, we will do our d****st to make it happen! the old tried and worn phrase is true, behind or besides, whichever is ur fancy, every good man is a better woman! ha! gotcha on that one! but a formidable truism nonetheless.
as the young urban crooner ne-yo sung 'im a movement by myself, but im a force when we're 2gether. u make me better.'
i want my michelle obama!
let me say this up front, i am simply enamored with michelle obama and her very public, visible and without shame or fear, reverence, respect and deep love 4 her husband barack. her public displays of affection. it is simply enthralling 2 watch her eyes light up and her smile widen and beam like a ray of sunshine after a short light rain that clears the air, when he enters the room, or n this case, pepsi field.
as i watched her response and reaction 2 him, i sat n envy and n wonton desire 2 have such a woman who would act n such a way 2 me. she alone, n a crowd of thousands, was his biggest cheerleader and most ardent fan. nobody smiled wider, nobody clapped harder, nobody cheered louder, nobody was up on their feet quicker, nobody looked prouder than michelle obama. i bet when barack entered 2nite at the end of bidens speech, if she could have jumped the rafters and bolted down 2 the stage 2 engulf her man with a full body hug and congratulatory kiss, she would have. the power of non verbal communication is incalcuable and priceless.
now catch this, she is accomplished n her own right. all by herself. intelligent. articulate. stylish. charismatic. confident. harvard trained, yet she still deferes 2 her man. she still looks @ him like he is the next best thing since sliced bread. she still touches him like they r teenagers n puppy love. she still smiles, looks him n the eye and listens when he speaks.
all women should take note and keep reference. i believe @ least half of the reason mr barack is where he is 2day, if not more, is because of the 'backing' of mrs michelle, not the berating. 2 many women tear their men down n private, disrespect their men n public and wontoningly carry on about their men 2 his face on a daily basis and wonder why he is the way he is, and things r the way they r. if u want 2 get there n life, wherever there is 4 u, get urself 2gether, find ur place and do ur man right!... u just might end up being 'first lady.'
women, u must understand that u have miraculous powers. u can either build a man up or tear a man down. u can either raise a man 2 heights he has never known or drown a man 2 depths he has never seen, simply by ur support or non-support, both verbal and nonverbal. most macho men will never admit this without being threatened but... a woman has the power 2 lift a man or let him fall. a woman has the power 2 push a man forward or drag a man backward.
even the Bible says n Proverbs (21:9) that it is better 2 live on a corner of the roof than 2 share a house with a quarreling woman!
her actions and words r the catalyst 4 us 2 compete, the encouragement 4 us 2 engage, the power 4 us 2 perform and the will 4 us 2 war! so often we get and gain our inner strength, speaking humanly now, from the woman who believes n us, despite us. she knows us yet she has faith n us. if she says we can, we believe we can and most times we do. there r fewer sweeter words than 'honey, i believe n u!' the lights can be cut off, the car can repossessed and the house can be foreclosed on, but if she says everything is alright, i know ur doing ur best and things will get better, i am with u to the end, we will do our d****st to make it happen! the old tried and worn phrase is true, behind or besides, whichever is ur fancy, every good man is a better woman! ha! gotcha on that one! but a formidable truism nonetheless.
as the young urban crooner ne-yo sung 'im a movement by myself, but im a force when we're 2gether. u make me better.'
i want my michelle obama!
Friday, August 22, 2008
a word about a wedding
words r not winsome enuf and adjectives r inadequate 2 definitively describe the joy n my heart n the happiness n my spirit 4 alan & deidra. my lil brother iz married and i gotz a brand new sis!
who woulda thunk it? who would predicted it? who woulda believed it? from international playboy 2 committed husband ... yall did it!...
ive been waiting 2 write n post on the this feeling and the weekend itself, yet everytime i sat down 2 pen, i could not contain my thoughts n feelings 2 words n keystrokes... even now, this is difficult 2 transcribe.i will b back later with a 'tim russert' type no holds barred eyewitness report of the haps... but 4 now, let it b known i havent been this excited n a long time . i recieve happiness from seeing others happy n being blessed!
the support shown n the love expressed by corinth and many friends and well wishers from around the country was overwhelming. it was literally astounding! i must admit i was sadly surprised by the conspicuous absence of a few whom i thought would have been n attendence, if 4 no other reason than simple relationship. u can tell who is n ur corner when u r experiencing things n life that mean the most 2 u by who is there. yes many come 4 many varied reasons. i call them 'wedding watchers.' ...some come 2 criticize, others 2 critique and still others 2 compare. others come 2b nosey, while still others 2b known that they were there. however, some come 2 genuinely celebrate with u n ur season. these r the people we need more of n our lives. christian celebrators not holy haters.
4 the christian celebrators, the faces, smiles, voices and touches i recieved, felt and saw this weekend (from folks who were there) i will never 4get n will always b treasured n my heart and mind. i have lost a measure of respect 4 some, but i have n turn gained a higher level of respect 4 some others. our pastor has taught us over the years, n iv heard it endlessly @ home growing up, that just ur presence is powerful, 4 it alone speaks volumes. conversely, ones absence is just as powerful and it 2 speaks volumes... ok, enuf of that...
4 everyone who helped 2 make the night special for my little brother and his bride, i thank you from my heart. i applaud you from my spirit. u not only made it special 4 them, but u also made it so very special 4 my mom n dad and 4 me... if u could hug each of u i would.
i shall return when the feeling is flowin' 2 give u the patterson paparrazi version of the rock star weekend...
till then... live like ur n love, everyday!
remember, u r greatly blessed, highly favored and deeply loved!
agape
pastor p
who woulda thunk it? who would predicted it? who woulda believed it? from international playboy 2 committed husband ... yall did it!...
ive been waiting 2 write n post on the this feeling and the weekend itself, yet everytime i sat down 2 pen, i could not contain my thoughts n feelings 2 words n keystrokes... even now, this is difficult 2 transcribe.i will b back later with a 'tim russert' type no holds barred eyewitness report of the haps... but 4 now, let it b known i havent been this excited n a long time . i recieve happiness from seeing others happy n being blessed!
the support shown n the love expressed by corinth and many friends and well wishers from around the country was overwhelming. it was literally astounding! i must admit i was sadly surprised by the conspicuous absence of a few whom i thought would have been n attendence, if 4 no other reason than simple relationship. u can tell who is n ur corner when u r experiencing things n life that mean the most 2 u by who is there. yes many come 4 many varied reasons. i call them 'wedding watchers.' ...some come 2 criticize, others 2 critique and still others 2 compare. others come 2b nosey, while still others 2b known that they were there. however, some come 2 genuinely celebrate with u n ur season. these r the people we need more of n our lives. christian celebrators not holy haters.
4 the christian celebrators, the faces, smiles, voices and touches i recieved, felt and saw this weekend (from folks who were there) i will never 4get n will always b treasured n my heart and mind. i have lost a measure of respect 4 some, but i have n turn gained a higher level of respect 4 some others. our pastor has taught us over the years, n iv heard it endlessly @ home growing up, that just ur presence is powerful, 4 it alone speaks volumes. conversely, ones absence is just as powerful and it 2 speaks volumes... ok, enuf of that...
4 everyone who helped 2 make the night special for my little brother and his bride, i thank you from my heart. i applaud you from my spirit. u not only made it special 4 them, but u also made it so very special 4 my mom n dad and 4 me... if u could hug each of u i would.
i shall return when the feeling is flowin' 2 give u the patterson paparrazi version of the rock star weekend...
till then... live like ur n love, everyday!
remember, u r greatly blessed, highly favored and deeply loved!
agape
pastor p
hip hop 4 hiv
sponsored by the city of dallas, 97.9 the beat and the mlk, jr family clinic, the hip hop 4 hiv event is an initiative 2 raise awareness and educate the community on the viral influence of aids n the black community.
2 lure the youngsters out, called 'testing 4 tickets,' the sponsors r hosting a concert on the steps of dallas city hall with some of the hottest hip hop artists 2 date. david banner, mike jones, bun b, young berg, day 26 and more, including local artists as well. i did see the local rapper coming up King's wrapped chevrolet tahoe. he is a resident of my community ssol (south side on lamar), a great guy and family man. go support king.
i am encouraged 2 c education and awaressness being raised n our community. the parking lot was full even across the street at madison high and the lines were outside the door. channel 11 news was on hand to lend media support as well as 94.5 and 104.5.
from the dallas city hall website, here some startling statistics concerning aids nationally, state-wide and in our city...
HIV/AIDS Statistics
• U.S. – About 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV/AIDS. New technology shows that the incidence of HIV is higher than previously known (with estimates at 56,300, rather than the originalestimate of 40,000, new HIV diagnoses each year). It is estimated that 25% of those infected with HIVdo not know it.
• State of Texas – over 60,000 Texans are living with HIV/AIDS, with about 5,000 new HIV diagnoseseach year
• Dallas County – over 13,000 in Dallas County are living with HIV/AIDS, with over 700 new HIV casesreported last year (2007).
aids is a silent killer n our communtiy whereas most carriers r unaware they have the disease. many pass it on to unsuspecting others thru irresponsible behavior and pure ignorance. unfortunately, more often than not, those who do know their status and are positive, cannot afford the exhorbitant prices of the medical cocktails of pills and treatment available. not must we raise awareness, but we must also lower costs for treatments for the average human being. if it can be affordable in africa, it can be made affordable in these united states.
the person you r grinding on a whim, 'hooking up with' on the sly, doing whenever they come to town, dating, engaged 2 or even married 2 just may b a carrier of the disease. u cannot simply 'look' at someone and judge whether or not they have the disease. it is known 2 even lie dormant n the body on an average of 7 yrs b4 becoming active n the body. professionals recommend being tested every 6 months.i encourage u 2 respect urself and get tested. if not then 4 urself, 4 whomever else enters ur life and their loved ones. think beyond urself. ur status affects more than just u. life is more than just u!
however, this 'pre' awareness is great n that it gives one the opportunity 2 engage n preventive action. self awareness, responsible action and disease education r great deterrents 2 contracting the disease. my prayer is that this is more than a concert 4 the throngs of youth i saw who were standing n the heat 2 get tested 2 get a ticket. my hope is that this ticket is entree n2 a proactive lifestyle of positive and informed choices and responsible behavior.
many kudos and 'big ups' 2 mayor tom leppert, mayor pro tem dwaine caraway and his 'teen summit' initiative 4 taking a stance and showing concern 4 our community. mr caraway is a non-stop community changing machine and a political dynamo. also 2 rickey smiley who is always on the grind n the community, concerned about the people and making a tangible difference n the lives of many. the lives that will b saved as a result of this effort cannot b counted nor can a price tag affixed 2 them. there is a 'fresh wind' blowing thru dallas city hall and it is cool and refreshing. soon the deserts of many forgotten or simply neglected communities will become oasises of pride and progression because of the work of few who still believe n a better future 4 all dallasites.
ps. u guys know i love pictures but my digital cameras battery was depleted. i took a picture with my sidekick phone but cant download it 2 my computure! ... ill keep trying! :-)
live, laugh and love 4 life is not promised!
agape,
pastor p
2 lure the youngsters out, called 'testing 4 tickets,' the sponsors r hosting a concert on the steps of dallas city hall with some of the hottest hip hop artists 2 date. david banner, mike jones, bun b, young berg, day 26 and more, including local artists as well. i did see the local rapper coming up King's wrapped chevrolet tahoe. he is a resident of my community ssol (south side on lamar), a great guy and family man. go support king.
i am encouraged 2 c education and awaressness being raised n our community. the parking lot was full even across the street at madison high and the lines were outside the door. channel 11 news was on hand to lend media support as well as 94.5 and 104.5.
from the dallas city hall website, here some startling statistics concerning aids nationally, state-wide and in our city...
HIV/AIDS Statistics
• U.S. – About 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV/AIDS. New technology shows that the incidence of HIV is higher than previously known (with estimates at 56,300, rather than the originalestimate of 40,000, new HIV diagnoses each year). It is estimated that 25% of those infected with HIVdo not know it.
• State of Texas – over 60,000 Texans are living with HIV/AIDS, with about 5,000 new HIV diagnoseseach year
• Dallas County – over 13,000 in Dallas County are living with HIV/AIDS, with over 700 new HIV casesreported last year (2007).
aids is a silent killer n our communtiy whereas most carriers r unaware they have the disease. many pass it on to unsuspecting others thru irresponsible behavior and pure ignorance. unfortunately, more often than not, those who do know their status and are positive, cannot afford the exhorbitant prices of the medical cocktails of pills and treatment available. not must we raise awareness, but we must also lower costs for treatments for the average human being. if it can be affordable in africa, it can be made affordable in these united states.
the person you r grinding on a whim, 'hooking up with' on the sly, doing whenever they come to town, dating, engaged 2 or even married 2 just may b a carrier of the disease. u cannot simply 'look' at someone and judge whether or not they have the disease. it is known 2 even lie dormant n the body on an average of 7 yrs b4 becoming active n the body. professionals recommend being tested every 6 months.i encourage u 2 respect urself and get tested. if not then 4 urself, 4 whomever else enters ur life and their loved ones. think beyond urself. ur status affects more than just u. life is more than just u!
however, this 'pre' awareness is great n that it gives one the opportunity 2 engage n preventive action. self awareness, responsible action and disease education r great deterrents 2 contracting the disease. my prayer is that this is more than a concert 4 the throngs of youth i saw who were standing n the heat 2 get tested 2 get a ticket. my hope is that this ticket is entree n2 a proactive lifestyle of positive and informed choices and responsible behavior.
many kudos and 'big ups' 2 mayor tom leppert, mayor pro tem dwaine caraway and his 'teen summit' initiative 4 taking a stance and showing concern 4 our community. mr caraway is a non-stop community changing machine and a political dynamo. also 2 rickey smiley who is always on the grind n the community, concerned about the people and making a tangible difference n the lives of many. the lives that will b saved as a result of this effort cannot b counted nor can a price tag affixed 2 them. there is a 'fresh wind' blowing thru dallas city hall and it is cool and refreshing. soon the deserts of many forgotten or simply neglected communities will become oasises of pride and progression because of the work of few who still believe n a better future 4 all dallasites.
ps. u guys know i love pictures but my digital cameras battery was depleted. i took a picture with my sidekick phone but cant download it 2 my computure! ... ill keep trying! :-)
live, laugh and love 4 life is not promised!
agape,
pastor p
Monday, August 4, 2008
Laying To Rest A G.O.A.T.
Today we laid to rest one of the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T.)
Dr. C A W Clark was a redwood among grass. Someone said today in their eulogistic remarks that he was short in stature but he cast a long shadow that covered generations. I am one, in the many of the multitudes, who resided in the blessings of the shadow of Dr Clark.
Dr Clark was that unusual phenomenon in humanity that only comes along every so often. One whom is so gifted and graced by God that even his peers do not try to emulate him. They just marveled at him. however, generations since him, have dissected, copied and emulated his style, tenor and tone to preaching. As younger preachers, we were amazed at Dr Clark. he was a godfather of preaching. As older preachers, we are most thankful for a man like Dr Clark, he is a friend to all.
He is so unique, and a rarified phenomenon that he is studied in the halls of academia in the highest eschelon. How can a 7th grade drop out now have students at Harvard University studying his life, his preaching prowess and preaching style? From missing school and being unable to procede beyond the 7th grade because of the economic need to pick cotton, to the top eschelon of ivory halls in academic excellence at the highest level.
His use of the english language is only as remarkable as he was a stutterer as a youngster. Yet, across the nation and even the globe, throngs came to hear him preach. I remember going to the national convention as a yongster with my parents, just like it was yesterday, and going to hear Dr Clark preach. There was always only standing room only, people lined around the walls and standing out in the foyers and hallways just to hear him preach. he drew crowds like a moth to a flame. The anointing that exuded from this man as he preached is something I have not experienced on that level, in such a huge venue, since. The atmosphere was charged with the electricty of the Holy Ghost! I remember saying to myself then, that's what I want to happen when I preach!
He was both an economist and an artist of words. Dr. William J Shaw, President of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. said today during the eulogy that Dr Clark 'never wasted words.' When Dr Clark spoke, for those of you old enough to remember, he was like E F Hutton, when he spoke, people listened. Really listened. We hung on his every word.
In college, he would come to the North Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where Dr Cameron Alexander is Pastor, once a year for revival. My friends and i, who are now young pastors, never missed a night. In the middle of exams, we where there every night. Sitting in the balcony, amazed at the artistry, imagination and anointing of this man. We wanted to preach like Ceasar! We got our hands on every tape, every video, every manuscript that we could. My friend jamal actually broke the tape in the cassette one night while we listened to Dr Clark, because he had played it so much, the tape just popped!
I am a recipient of 'generational blessings.' I have been privilaged to meet and have relationship with people without whom the relationship wth my father, would not have been. For this i am grateful, simply because it is of no fault of mine and i am so undeserving. Since being in dallas, Dr Clark was one of those blessings. I would go and sit and talk, well really listen, to Dr Clark on many occassions. The depth of his wisdom was deeper than the sea beds. His derth of knowledge in things spiritual and practical was beyond a blessing to me. He and the late Dr E K Bailey, were both the guiding forces for me here in Dallas, through my crucible at another church, for which I will forever be indebted to the both of them.
I have been privileged to even preach in the great pulpit and tall steeple of his church, the Goodstreet Missionary Baptist Church on five or six occassions. Dr Clark was a friend to youung preachers. For this I am also grateful and thankful. He has left an indelible imprint on my life that will never be erased.
I am thankful for his life, his preaching, his encouragement, his support, his wisdom, his jokes, his laughter and his smile.
Oh yeah, Isaid, I cried. i did. A friend of mine made joke about it today, but it was no laughing matter to me. But then again, he did not have a relationship nor the history that I was privileged to have with Dr Clark.... Leaving the church, headed to the cemetary, seeing the four horse drawn carriage that carried his body through the streets of Dallas brought tears to my eyes. Seeing cars stopped on the opposite side of the street and people getting out to take pictures of the procession brought tears to my eyes. Tsee people standing at attention in their yards and even one day care, charter school had their children and youth out in the front, standing, taking in the sights and sounds of this moment brought tears to my eyes. The regality of the moment did not escape me, as Dr Clark was royalty among preachers.
As I think about the days happenings and the life of Dr Clark, and how he has invested in my life, tears are now coming to my eyes. Goodnight on earth to you Dr Clark, but good morning to you in heaven, where God will wipe away the tears from all weeping eyes.
agape
Dr. C A W Clark was a redwood among grass. Someone said today in their eulogistic remarks that he was short in stature but he cast a long shadow that covered generations. I am one, in the many of the multitudes, who resided in the blessings of the shadow of Dr Clark.
Dr Clark was that unusual phenomenon in humanity that only comes along every so often. One whom is so gifted and graced by God that even his peers do not try to emulate him. They just marveled at him. however, generations since him, have dissected, copied and emulated his style, tenor and tone to preaching. As younger preachers, we were amazed at Dr Clark. he was a godfather of preaching. As older preachers, we are most thankful for a man like Dr Clark, he is a friend to all.
He is so unique, and a rarified phenomenon that he is studied in the halls of academia in the highest eschelon. How can a 7th grade drop out now have students at Harvard University studying his life, his preaching prowess and preaching style? From missing school and being unable to procede beyond the 7th grade because of the economic need to pick cotton, to the top eschelon of ivory halls in academic excellence at the highest level.
His use of the english language is only as remarkable as he was a stutterer as a youngster. Yet, across the nation and even the globe, throngs came to hear him preach. I remember going to the national convention as a yongster with my parents, just like it was yesterday, and going to hear Dr Clark preach. There was always only standing room only, people lined around the walls and standing out in the foyers and hallways just to hear him preach. he drew crowds like a moth to a flame. The anointing that exuded from this man as he preached is something I have not experienced on that level, in such a huge venue, since. The atmosphere was charged with the electricty of the Holy Ghost! I remember saying to myself then, that's what I want to happen when I preach!
He was both an economist and an artist of words. Dr. William J Shaw, President of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. said today during the eulogy that Dr Clark 'never wasted words.' When Dr Clark spoke, for those of you old enough to remember, he was like E F Hutton, when he spoke, people listened. Really listened. We hung on his every word.
In college, he would come to the North Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where Dr Cameron Alexander is Pastor, once a year for revival. My friends and i, who are now young pastors, never missed a night. In the middle of exams, we where there every night. Sitting in the balcony, amazed at the artistry, imagination and anointing of this man. We wanted to preach like Ceasar! We got our hands on every tape, every video, every manuscript that we could. My friend jamal actually broke the tape in the cassette one night while we listened to Dr Clark, because he had played it so much, the tape just popped!
I am a recipient of 'generational blessings.' I have been privilaged to meet and have relationship with people without whom the relationship wth my father, would not have been. For this i am grateful, simply because it is of no fault of mine and i am so undeserving. Since being in dallas, Dr Clark was one of those blessings. I would go and sit and talk, well really listen, to Dr Clark on many occassions. The depth of his wisdom was deeper than the sea beds. His derth of knowledge in things spiritual and practical was beyond a blessing to me. He and the late Dr E K Bailey, were both the guiding forces for me here in Dallas, through my crucible at another church, for which I will forever be indebted to the both of them.
I have been privileged to even preach in the great pulpit and tall steeple of his church, the Goodstreet Missionary Baptist Church on five or six occassions. Dr Clark was a friend to youung preachers. For this I am also grateful and thankful. He has left an indelible imprint on my life that will never be erased.
I am thankful for his life, his preaching, his encouragement, his support, his wisdom, his jokes, his laughter and his smile.
Oh yeah, Isaid, I cried. i did. A friend of mine made joke about it today, but it was no laughing matter to me. But then again, he did not have a relationship nor the history that I was privileged to have with Dr Clark.... Leaving the church, headed to the cemetary, seeing the four horse drawn carriage that carried his body through the streets of Dallas brought tears to my eyes. Seeing cars stopped on the opposite side of the street and people getting out to take pictures of the procession brought tears to my eyes. Tsee people standing at attention in their yards and even one day care, charter school had their children and youth out in the front, standing, taking in the sights and sounds of this moment brought tears to my eyes. The regality of the moment did not escape me, as Dr Clark was royalty among preachers.
As I think about the days happenings and the life of Dr Clark, and how he has invested in my life, tears are now coming to my eyes. Goodnight on earth to you Dr Clark, but good morning to you in heaven, where God will wipe away the tears from all weeping eyes.
agape
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