I'm praying that you had a wonderful weekend and are preparing for an exciting holiday week! Happy Sunday is a bit late this week, my work schedule changed and I was extremely tired last night.
Pastor Zachary L. Lee used to talk about the vicissitudes of life; the ups and downs. It has been two weeks of ups and downs, but thank God he "always causes us to triumph in Christ!" 2 Corinthians 2:14 (King James Version)
My nephew, Charles A. Harper, Jr. was laid to rest on Friday, June 27, 2014. Nothing causes you to examine your theology like death. I've had several opportunities to discuss death with my children. The Word declares that, "Since the children are made of flesh and blood, it’s logical that the Savior took on flesh and blood in order to rescue them by his death. By embracing death, taking it into himself, he destroyed the Devil’s hold on death and freed all who cower through life, scared to death of death." Jesus has freed us from the fear of death. No, that doesn't make it any more pleasant to deal with, but we don't have to fear death when we have a relationship with Jesus Christ. We also discussed the fact that God is not killing people! He's not out picking flowers for his garden as some ministers would have you believe. There is only one entity that kills, steals, and destroys! John 10:10 says, "The thief approaches with malicious intent, looking to steal, slaughter, and destroy; I (JESUS) came to give life with joy and abundance." (Voice) Thankfully, my nephew had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. "God’s gifts and God’s call are under full warranty—never canceled, never rescinded." Romans 11:29 (Message)
This week I also had to privilege of helping get my young cousin, Tonnie White settled in his college apartment. Tonnie will be playing football for Scottsdale Community College. It was inspiring to see young black men moving toward their goals. It was wonderful to know that all of the young people are not out doing negative things. I salute them and their parents. Tonnie is the son of my amazing cousin, Sonya Brooks White and her awesome husband Donnie White. I got an extra special treat because my aunt Sophia Brooks Henson, the proud grandmother came to the valley as well. The ladies attended church with us on Sunday.
Reverend Elton Ford preached, "Lost in the House". He used Luke 15:8-10 as his reference scriptures. I love the Word! It is always fresh and relevant. Reverend Ford reminded us that we should never let our circumstances determine who we are! Even when you don't feel it, you must remember that you are loved and you are valuable. God sacrificed his only son for you! In this scripture text, a woman had lost a precious coin. Long before incandescent lights and Travertine tile, this woman had to light a candle and sweep her dirt floor to find the coin. She put in the effort because the coin was valuable. Everyday God is showing you his love and reminding you of your value. Psalm 19:1 says, "God’s glory is on tour in the skies, God-craft on exhibit across the horizon. Madame Day holds classes every morning, Professor Night lectures each evening." (Message) Don't you be lost in the house! Romans 2:4 says, "Do you take the kindness of God for granted? Do you see His patience and tolerance as signs that He is a pushover when it comes to sin? How could you not know that His kindness is guiding our hearts to turn away from distractions and habitual sin to walk a new path?" (Voice)
Reverend Ford shared another point that I really enjoyed. If you purchased a new Mercedes you would never take it to the Ford dealership for service. Well, I hope you wouldn't! LOL! You would take it back to it's manufacturer! God created us! He knows what we need when we need it! Even the Apostle James wrote, "If you don’t have all the wisdom needed for this journey, then all you have to do is ask God for it; and God will grant all that you need. He gives lavishly and never scolds you for asking." James 1:5 (Voice)
Love and prayers, Cynthia
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