N
ot long ago a friend of mine invited me to dinner at a Japanese restaurant in our city. Okay, let me be honest here, I do not do the buffet thing at all. It's just too great of a temptation for a brother like me to over indulge so I did not want to go initially, but I went just for the sake of Christian fellowship. But, when I walked into this place for dinner I was shocked at the atmosphere. There was never a boring moment at Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse. Blades were flying, fires were soaring, rice was cooking, shrimp was grilling, peppers were sizzling, chicken and steak were smoking, and everyone was having a great time. I had a reserved seat marked "guess who's coming to dinner" and I sat and watched a skilled Japanese chef prepare a table for me before me.
doing all that He can do to bless us. And one of those blessings is a table prepared for just for you. Here's what he says, "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies..." (Psalms 23:5a, KJV). How does it make you feel to know that God has plans for your future? What does it make you think to consider the fact the Lord is intentionally working to do things for you that you cannot do for yourself right now? What would you say if I told you that there was a seat at God's table with your name on it? Here's some shouting news for you that should bless the rest of your day. The Lord wants you at His table!!! But, what's at His table that makes it so great?
As I sat there watching that chef prepare my table with that little sign in front of me that read "guess who's coming to dinner" I thought a much greater table that is being prepared for everyone who loves the Lord Jesus Christ. If you are reading this devotional and you have been saved by the grace of our Lord by way of His finished work at Calvary you have a spot at the table which the Lord of heaven prepares for you Himself both in time and eternity! What's on the table you ask? Not just food, but faith. Not just dinner, but deliverance. Not just desert, but destiny. Not just potatoes, but peace. Not just juice, but joy. Not just salad, but salvation. And, not just veggies, but victory! In fact, I believe that a great invitation has gone out and there is a sign at the table of the Lord that says "guess who's coming to dinner" and you are the invited guest of Almighty God!
First of all, His provisions are at the table. Let me ask you a very personal question. What do you need from God right now? If you have no needs, praise the Lord. But, if you do have some real needs what are they? Perhaps you need healing in your body, restoration in your finances, strengthening in your family or guidance for your life. Maybe you need help for an area of weakness, liberation from an attack, deliverance from an addiction or just a prayer answered in a time of need. Whatever the case please hear this, God will provide! David says "thou preparest..." The Hebrew verb here is aw-rak and it means to set the order. It means to put out what is needed. Are you shouting yet? When God made room for you at His table according to David He set out what was needed. What a mighty God we serve that He would provide for us each moment, each minute, each hour, each day, each week, each month, and each year! Remember this, when you are in Christ and Christ is In you, your needs are His provisions!!!
One of the most popular verses in the Bible is the 23rd Psalm. It is where David writes the words to the most comforting Hebrew hymn ever written. In the heart of the hymn He is careful to remind us of the fact that the Lord is
Secondly, His protection is at the table. Here's a sad but true report. Everyone who smiles in your face is not your friend. Some of the people that are near you are enemies and in many instances you do not know it. There are people
who do not want to see the Lord bless you, there are others who laugh when you suffer and make snarling remarks like "it's about time the Lord punished them for all of the evil that they do to other people", and if left to them nothing good would ever happen to you at all. But, here's the question, why does a good God let these people exist? Why doesn't He just wipe them all out? Here's some more good news for you to celebrate life and living. The reason why God does not get rid of them is because He needs someone to bless you in front of! The text says that the Lord sits the table in "...the presence of mine enemies..." Tsaw-rar is the term used for enemies and it suggests one that works in close proximity to you to make sure that you are bound. But, get this while they are working to bind you God is working to bless you. In fact, you cannot have one without the other. Attempted binding and divine blessing go together like rice and gravy! So when your enemies are in your face do not move them but remind yourself you’re at the table! Your enemies work for God and while are trying to bind you God is busy blessing you!!! Thirdly, His person is at the table. Do you know that the most wonderful part about being at God's table? No it is not what’s on it. It is who's at it. Nothing on the table compares to the Lord who is at His table with you. In fact, if nothing was on the table at all just knowing that God would be there is enough to shout about. You see the terms used throughout the Psalm are very personal. "Thou preparest...before me...thou anointest my head..." It suggests that God is the person doing everything for you from beginning to end. It is a portrait of grace. Let's be honest. We don't deserve what the Lord has for us on His table or at His table. But, He's given it to us in spite of ourselves. Thank God for amazing, life changing, and life transforming grace! The sign read "guess who's coming to dinner" and I was the honored guest. What a joy it was! The food was off the chain. But, the greatest part of my night was the fact that I had a chance to meet the chef! You see in all other restaurants you meet the waiter or waitress; but not here. He prepared my table for me himself and I had a chance to shake his hand, make his acquaintance, and get to know him for myself. Can you hear the voice of God in this? The Lord has a sign at His table. No it may not say "guess who's coming to dinner" but it does say "come unto to me all that have labored and are heavy laden and I will give you rest..." And when you accept the invite and sit at the table the Lord does all of your preparations. You can meet Him for yourself. And, if you know Him like I do you can be satisfied with Him and forget about the table. He's just that good! Get to the table...your destiny awaits you there!
Scripture Verse: Genesis 22:11-14 And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I. And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me. And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah Jireh; as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church was organized in 1894 by Reverend A. Venerable and 85 members from Live Oak Baptist Church. In December of the same year, the pastor and members purchased Lot 412, Block 57 at 527 Forsythe Street in Beaumont, Texas. In 1896 the first sanctuary was erected. Rev. R. T. Pullum became pastor in 1896 and served until 1898. In 1901, Reverend M.E. Robinson accepted the call to Pastor Antioch. He was committed to community education and the mission of the church. Antioch became a member of State and National Associations under Reverend Robinson’s leadership. In 1923 the first unit of a two story brick edifice was erected at 527 Forsythe Street. Reverend W. S. Brent became the fourth pastor. There was tremendous growth during his tenure. He served from 1929 to 1934, during which time the second unit of the church was built. The first baptistery was installed, and the congregation was organized into auxiliaries and departments. Reverend Levi Stanmore accepted the pastorate in 1934 and provided leadership until 1937. In 1938, Reverend Raymond H. Johnson accepted the spiritual call to pastor Antioch. He founded the Eastern Progressive Association of which Antioch is still an active member. Under his guidance, the church purchased a Wurlitzer organ and retired a $28,000.00 mortgage. Reverend R. E. McKeen was then called to serve as Pastor. During his tenure he served as a tutor and mentor for countless young men who later accepted the call to the ministry. Reverend R. E. McKeen’s tenure ended 1957. Reverend Edward W. Brown is the only pastor to serve two tenures. During his first tenure in 1958, his administration was characterized as having visions for future growth and development of the church. In 1972-1991, the church purchased 4.03 acres of land (Washington Blvd.), a fifty passenger bus and carpeted the church. When Revered Brown resigned in 1968, Reverend U. L. Sanders was called to serve as pastor; he served until 1969. In 1970, Reverend Robert Castle, III was called to serve as pastor and remained until 1971. In February 1972, Reverend E. W. Brown returned as pastor of Antioch. The sanctuary on Washington Blvd. was dedicated on July 29, 1973. In 1978, the Education Building was completed and dedicated in memory of Sister Vinnie Bowser. With God’s help and Reverend Brown’s guidance, the church mortgage was retired and a symbolic celebration was held on June 14, 1991. In November 1991, Reverend Brown retired as pastor of Antioch. Reverend Phillip L. Hodge, Sr., as the twelfth pastor, accepted the call on November 8, 1992. During his administration, many changes were made that resulted in an increase in the membership, revival of several choirs and the BTU program. Reverend Hodge led the congregation in a direction with new programs: New Members’ Orientation class, Youth Explosion Ministry, Fellowship Breakfast, a live Sunday morning Radio Broadcast, and the Tape Ministry. Additionally, a second organ was purchased and a new sound system was donated. On July 16, 1995, Reverend Hodge tendered his resignation as pastor.
In 1996, the membership of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, called Reverend John R. Adolph to become its Pastor. Under his leadership, the congregation is learning how to truly live by “the Bible”. With a diversified membership, more than 50 believers have answered the call to evangelize and dedicate their lives to serve as ministers of the gospel, and over 50 plus new Ministries have been added. We, as a church are becoming the vision that we proclaim so often. Membership has grown from 250 to over 7,000. A Christian daycare center (Noah’s Ark Christian Day Care, Inc.) was established on the grounds (Washington Blvd) in September 1998. In the year of 2000 the church purchased 20 plus acres on Cardinal Drive to construct a new edifice. We entered the new house of worship December 31, 2005. Pastor Adolph has lead Antioch to a whole new dimension. Homes, under the auspices of Antioch, have been built on newly established streets for low income families, a youth activity center/school has been built and serves as a charter school, an extension church in Baytown has afternoon service every Sunday, and living facilities for senior citizens is soon forthcoming. Antioch morning worship services (7:45a, 9:45a, 11:45a) can be seen each Sunday on Streaming Faith.
As part of mission support, Antioch has an outreach program to aid cities in Africa. A well has been built in Haiti and we are supporting the building of a church in Ghana. Backpacks and school supplies are sent annually. Pastor and members have traveled to Haiti, Ghana, and Accra to spread the word and share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am Alana Crook, born in Port Arthur, Texas on September 12, 1995 to Donald and Virginia Crook. I am the youngest of two brothers and two sisters that I love dearly. From the day I was born, I was a member of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church that was then pastored by Rev. Randy Vaughn. I requested to be baptized when I was about five years old. This was the beginning of my relationship and love for our wonderful God. A few years later, we became members of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. Becoming a member brought me out of my shell and gave me more confidence. As I got older, my relationship with God grew as well. In 2013, I graduated from West Brook Sr. High School. I was a cheerleader and the President of Antioch’s Youth Council. During my senior year of high school, I participated in many ministries in the church, such as the step team, choir, the founder of Block out Bullying (B.O.B) and the soon to be founder of Young Successful Women. This ministry will someday help other young mothers like myself to never give up and to always look forward to what God has in store for us.
Less than a year into attending Stephen F. Austin State University I became pregnant. Soon after, many of my friendships began to suffer as I began to isolate myself. My mentor at the time, Ms. Anjerrika Bean came to my home to help me find a way to understand what life held for me. She taught me that sometimes I may have to do this on my own regardless of who’s there to help. She also told me the sin was not in my child that she is a blessing, and I will one day realize that my life wasn’t over. I lived every day of my pregnancy in depression and now I regret not being thankful to go through such an amazing and remarkable experience. I gave birth to Addison Danielle Square on my birthday in 2014. That day I stepped up and took on the responsibility of being a mother. The first couple of months were rough as I had to find a way to get out of a nasty funk. I went to a therapist and took antidepressants looking for answers. Every solution a doctor or therapist gave me had turned into a dead end. I felt as if there was nothing that would help me. I was able to take care of Addison with love and care but couldn’t find a way to make myself happy. The struggles of depression, feeling alone, and having people turn on me brought me to an all-time low. Thankfully, there are many people in my life that truly helped me get through the hardest. I felt like I was a failure and everyone thought I was worthless. Little did I know that turning my back on family and friends because I was embarrassed of something so sweet and amazing meant I was turning my back on God. It took me months to understand why I was going
through so much. I had the answers in front of me all along and ignored the one true reason to be happy. God gave me an amazing gift on my birthday and every birthday. He gave me a life to take care of. He showed me how to be strong for my daughter. To never let her see or feel my stress when things were wrong. My relationship with God has grown more than I could have imagined. Every single day I wake up smiling, thanking the Lord for waking us up another day. I thank Him for the opportunities he has given me: letting me continue school, get a great job and have a daughter that will love me no matter what. I know I will succeed and my eyes have been opened. Now I can finally lift my hands and say “Thank you Lord for changing my life.” I plan to graduate next year with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and will pursue a master’s degree soon after. One day we will make it to the top and my daughter will be tremendously proud of me. I have the chance to experience every challenge before greatness with Addison and that’s such a blessing. This extraordinary two-year-old blows my mind every day. She can form words and sentences and even recognizes numbers, shapes, and colors.. There is never a dull moment in raising a child -- especially when the child is a total diva. She could brighten up anyone’s day that may need a pick me up. She is an amazing child and I can’t wait to watch her grow up. Every day we share a prayer before bed and a special bond no one could ever break. We love to give hugs and kisses to show how much we appreciate each other. She may not be able to understand but just to have someone love you no matter what happens is a great feeling. There are challenges with raising Addison; she suffers from Bell’s Palsy. We spend a lot of time going back and forth to the doctor getting blood tests, MRI’S, and EEGs, Sometime I feel so helpless because I can’t ease her pain.. Having Addison has taught me what life is truly about. If there is anything I could say to other single parents it’s to never give up and to stay strong. Being a single parent doesn’t mean your life is over. You are important and you deserve every blessing coming your way. You are a phenomenal woman and a strong man and it’s time to lead our little ones to greatness. Always put God first and he will give you everything you have ever desired and more. Never forget: There is someone who truly cares for you. You are never alone! Keep your head up and shine! Addison Square, mommy loves you! You bring me so much joy. You taught me how to love myself and to appreciate every blessing. You are my precious jewel that I will always treasure. One day you will grow up to be a phenomenal young lady. It will be the fire in your eyes that will show the world who you are. You are loved! -Mommy
There’s a ministry here for you! Get up, Get Active, Get Involved! Join a ministry TODAY!
SINGLES PARENTS’ MINISTRY
Congratulations to Tanisha Brown in receiving her Master's Degree in Strategic Leadership. Her Graduation Ceremony will be in December 2016. We are so proud of you and keep up the great work. The Single Parents’ Ministry enjoyed a Ladies' Night Out with A Movie and Dinner Evening on September 9, 2016. The theme was "Denim and Diamonds" and all the ladies were absolutely BEAUTIFUL. Thank you to all who participated. Each Lady received a silver coins with a spiritual message of encouragement to remind them God is with them ALWAYS. The Single Parent's Ministry met Tuesday, September 20, 2016 for the Monthly Fellowship. Mary Simon shared information regarding protocol for meeting room reservations at the church, use of Information Station and other Leadership information. Praise reports and Prayer request were also completed. Special thanks to Donna Guilbeau and Tanisha Brown for their generous monetary donation to pay for Mary Simon to attend the Leadership Retreat in Galveston, Texas in October 2016. What a blessing from God and for their unselfish act of kindness. The next Single Parents' Monthly Fellowship is Monday, October 10, 2016, in Fellowship Hall A, at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, at 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Please bring the children with you to the ministry fellowship as it is so necessary that they witness our Love for God. You do not need to be a member of Antioch to participate in this fellowship. If you have any questions, please contact Mary Simon, Ministry Leader at mrysim@sbcglobal.net or via Facebook or any parent who is actively involved in the ministry.
PRISON-OUTREACH MINISTRY Praise God from whom All Blessings Flow! To God Be the Glory for what He is doing behind the Prison Walls!! Brief report from the Ministry: On September 3, 2016 the Prison Ministry Team visited the Federal Medium Complex, we held worship service and preaching of the Gospel. There were 55 inmates in attendance and 25 first time salvations! On September 17, 2016, the Prison Ministry Team traveled to Dayton, Texas to the Planes Women Prison to bring the Gospel to the women behind the prison wall. There were over 250 women in attendance and over 50 first time salvations! To God be the Glory!! Please keep praying for the women, men, and youth behind the prison walls as well as the Prison Ministry Team, we appreciate the prayers and encouragement as we continue bring the Gospel behind the Prison Walls!! UpComing Events for October October 17-18, 2016- 8:00 AM- 12:00 PM- Larry Gist Unit- Evangelism EV2 Training Inmates October 24-25, 2016- 8:00 AM- 12:00 PM- Larry Gist Unit- Evangelism EV2 Training Inmates Local Jefferson County Jail and State Prisons Visits upon request from inmate or family members. Call Rev. Albert Chargois to schedule visit.( contact info below) If you have any questions regarding Prison Outreach Ministry or would like to be a part of the ministry, please call Rev. Albert Chargois@ 409-861-1277- HM/ 409-201-1216 Cell or email: albertchargois@sbcglobal.net.
GOLDEN YEARS’ MINISTRY All members who are 55+ or anyone who likes to fellowship with mature adults are invited to join us. Meetings are the 1st Monday of each month at 1pm. We are planning many interesting and informative activities.
S.W.A.T./THERAPON MINISTRY Will meet October 19, 2016 in Kononia A @ 6:30pm. We will conduct various studies that will help hurting and healing individuals, etc. Our first lesson will be on FORGIVING a root cause that stunt growth in the believer. Also, those who are Therapon Belief Therapist (CBT) will receive your CEUs through these classes. Our meeting date will be the third (3rd) Wednesday of the month @ 6:30 pm in Kononia A. If you have any questions or concerns please call or email me. 409-363-4533, vaughn6042@sbcglobal.net.
GRADUATION MINISTRY -
DDM - Deadlines Do Matter! October 17th
6:30 pm.
November 5th
10:00 am. Community Service at Pelican Bay Assisted Living Facility
December 11th 2:00 p.m.
Scholarship & Financial Aid Session
Community Service in Partnership with Antioch’s Outreach Ministry at Weiss Park
Don't wait and don't miss out on important information. Check us out on Facebook at Antioch Graduation Ministry, twitter @AMBCgrad and Instagram @AMBCgrad. For more information contact Dr. Porchanee' A. White @ 409.840.5941 or at porchanee.white@gmail.com.
CHRIST’S DEBUTANTES MINISTRY -
CHRIST'S DEBUTANTES, INC. presents class of 2016 Commencement Ball Saturday, November 12, 2016 at Seven o'clock in the evening Holiday Inn & Suites, I10 & Walden Road, Beaumont, TX $40 Per Person / ATTIRE: Black Tie & Formal Tickets available at Information Desk. Contact Lady Dorrie for further details. 409-842-3145; Ext.109
There’s a ministry here for you! Get up, Get Active, Get Involved! Join a ministry TODAY!