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My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love doesn’t know the first thing about God, because God is love – so you can’t know him if you don’t love. This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about – not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they’ve done to our relationship with God. 11-12 My dear, dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us – perfect love! 13-16 This is how we know we’re living steadily and deeply in him, and he in us: He’s given us life from his life, from his very own Spirit. Also, we’ve seen for ourselves and continue to state openly that the Father sent his Son as Savior of the world. Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we’ve embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God. 7-10
TO LOVE, TO BE LOVED
God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day – our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life – fear of death, fear of judgment – is one not yet fully formed in love. 19 We, though, are going to love – love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first. 20-21 If anyone boasts, “I love God,” and goes right on hating his brother or sister, thinking nothing of it, he is a liar. If he won’t love the person he can see, how can he love the God he can’t see? The command we have from Christ is blunt: Loving God includes loving people. You’ve got to love both. 17-18
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George Imaging George Imaging is a home/business inventory and asset control company that specializes in documenting and recording personal and business assets to ensure that home and business owners have an accurate account of their assets in the event of a disaster or other catastrophic event. George Imaging also offers administrative support, event coordination, and other services. Contact us for more information by calling 443-967-3397 or visiting our website at www.georgeimaging.com.
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Trinkets to Triumph Trinkets to Triumph is a Biblically-based blog, social media blasts, books (to be birthed), and bookings, by Elder Tracey Nicole George, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement to triumph over their angst, motivate individuals to recognize who they are and to edify individuals to achieve living your best life. It is a movement that model’s the stand the daughters of Zelophehad took when they argued their case to claim their father’s inheritance with Moses (Numbers 27:7). According to custom, women were not able to claim their father’s inheritance and their father had died and only had daughters. The daughters of Zelophehad decided to argue their case with Moses to convince him that they should have a right to claim their inheritance. Moses agreed and ruled in their favor. Trinkets to Triumph pushes and propels people to claim their inheritance and live their life according to royal standards. Book Elder Tracey Nicole George for your next event to experience an encouraging, Biblically-based, motivational moment by calling 443-967-3397 or emailing Elder Tracey at traceygeorge527@gmail.com. Follow Trinkets to Triumph on Instagram for daily inspiration and visit the website at www.traceystrinketstotriumph. com. Grace&Glory 3
February 2022
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on the cover: Deacon Danny George Elder Tracey George www.georgeimaging.com Traceystrinketstotriumph.com
New Destiny Evangelistic Church Bishop Allen and Dr. Sylvia Bryant, Set Gifts Edgewood, Maryland
Cover Story pgs 8-11 This month we are celebrating the Season of Love. We welcome Deacon Danny & Elder Tracey George ministry leaders at New Destiny Evangelistic Church in Edgewood, MD, where Bishop Allen & Dr. Sylvia Bryant are the Set Gifts. Danny and Tracey share their love story and journey to husband and wife and answer some candid questions about their marriage. They share that there were treats and trials along the way, but in the end, God blessed them and fulfilled their Dream to Destiny.
Special Features 20 MISSIONS MINISTRY
18 BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Association for the Study of AfricanAmerican Life & History
2022 Black History Month Theme: Black Health & Wellness
Kristy Herring
What is “missions”?
Healthy Soul 12 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH Elder Tracey George
Dream to Destiny
28 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE Pastor Rhoda Turner
What is Love? 4 February 2022
22 JOY BRINGER Season Bowers
Fire of Love
30 MONTHLY MANNA Min. Carenda Deonne
Do You Respect the Power of Love?
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
26 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
34 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Ericka J.
Love is The Answer
Healthy Life
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6
32 HEALTH MATTERS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
February is Black History Month
Call Tyson
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From the Editor....................................... 7
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Contributors For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Rhoda Turner Season Bowers GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
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DR. CARLA DEBNAM Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5. ELDER TRACEY GEORGE Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church. MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration. DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University. PASTOR RHODA TURNER Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ. SEASON BOWERS Season Bowers- is a Pastor, radio host, and Joy bringer! After spending over 20 years as a professional actor on stage, the Lord called her into full-time ministry. Season is passionate about releasing freedom and joy to the Glory of God in every way she can everywhere she goes.
from the editor
Love Beyond Measure God loves each of us as if there were only one of us ~ Augustine February is Love month. Many of us will celebrate Valentine’s Day this month with a special someone; and many of us will not be celebrating with a special someone. Many of us will go out of our way to show that certain someone our undying devotion with acts and expressions of love and affection. There will be those who will feel left out of this celebration of love; feeling unloved and sad because of the lack of [what they think is] the ultimate love experience. While it is nice to celebrate those who have a special place in our hearts on Valentine’s Day, it does not mean that if you do not receive some expression of love on that day that you are not loved. If there is any doubt in your mind that you are loved this Valentine’s Day, let me help you out. There is someone who loves you unconditionally. This someone loves you no matter what you look like, where you come from, what your profession is or how educated you may be. There is someone who loves you that looks beyond your faults, your shortcomings or when you miss the mark. And guess what, you do not have to do anything for this love. You cannot buy it and you cannot earn it. It is a love that is there to accept and embrace . . . A love beyond measure. In case you are wondering who loves you beyond measure, it is God. Do you have any idea how much God loves you? I mean do you really know the scope and depth of the love of God? Romans 8:38-39 tells us that there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God. Isn’t that kind of love incredible? It is hard to comprehend a love like that. Generally speaking, we have experienced love in many different forms. We have experienced the love of our parents and our siblings. We have experienced the love of a significant other, our spouses and the love of our children. We have even experienced the love of friends, colleagues, neighbors, and church members, but there is nothing that can compare to the love that God has for us. We should not depend on or wait for another person to make us feel loved, wanted, or appreciated. We should not depend on another person to validate us or make us feel whole or complete. There is only one who can do all those things and that is God, the lover of our souls. Instead of wondering who loves you or if anyone will ever love you, there is only one promise of love that you can stand on and that is the love of God. God promises to love us always and forever. Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever. (Psalm136:26) I have put together a little ‘love’ list as a reminder of how great God’s love is toward us. God’s love is shown through Jesus Christ. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love,
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not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (I John 4:9-11) God loves and cares for us. But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. (Psalm 86:15) What God says about love. I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me (Proverbs 8:17). A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35). This month for Valentine’s Day choose to embrace it with joy and happiness, as a reminder of how much God loves you and His unselfish act of love towards you. “For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) I hope I have convinced you that you are loved beyond measure and that leaves only one thing left for us to do, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37) Happy LOVE Month! Grace&Glory 7
A Candid Conversation About Marriage G&G: Danny and Tracey, we are delighted to feature the two of you for our February issue and to talk with you about marriage. I understand that the two of you have been married for 13 years. What qualities were you looking for in a spouse? Were there any things that were deal breakers? Danny: The qualities I look for in a spouse is someone who communicates well, someone with a calm spirit, and someone who enjoys laughing and joking but can also get serious and learn the Word of God with me. A deal breaker would be someone that smokes cigarettes but since I would be searching for a Christian woman generally that wouldn’t be an issue. Tracey: Thank you for the opportunity to share our love story! The qualities I was looking for in a spouse was someone that would be true, faithful, committed, and dedicated to not only me but to God. I had one deal breaker: Jesus not being Lord over your life. My relationship with my Lord is the foundation of everything in my life. 8 8 February 2022 February 2022
G&G: How did this love story begin? What was your first impression of your spouse? Danny: Our love story began when my best friend’s wife told me that she knew the prefect lady for me and wanted me to meet her. She felt that we would be the perfect match for each other. My first impression of my wife was that she was a praying woman because when we first met, she always would tell me that she was praying for me and my mom because she knew I was traveling every week to see my mom who was in hospice at the time. Tracey: Our love story began with quick encounters at church and then conversations over coffee. When we first met, we would always grab a cup of coffee and just talk for hours. My first impression of Danny was he was my dream manifested. When I first saw him, he had all the physical characteristics I was looking for and, most of all, a man of God.
Q&A been the most challenging time during your relationship G&G: How did you know things were getting serious? Did you have any doubts or fears about getting married and what did you learn about each other? Danny: The most challenging time for me was early and making that commitment? Danny: I knew things were getting serious when I in our marriage, if we had a disagreement about decided to talk with her mother and something, I would hold our pastor about us dating. I had it in and would want to my doubts and fears but not about wait a couple of days to being committed. It was more about talk about it, but my wife me being good enough to be her would want to speak her husband. peace immediately. So, we Tracey: I knew things were getting came to an understanding serious when he made me a CD that life is too short, and with all these love songs on it and tomorrow isn’t promised most of the songs were some of my to no one, so we make sure favorite songs and he didn’t even that we clear our hearts know it. My only fear in getting and minds every night married was if my husband could before we go to sleep. be satisfied with just me and be Tracey: In the first couple Our Wedding Day – September 26, 2008 committed to only me. of years of our marriage, I had insecurities because of past hurts that made me G&G: In the early years of your marriage were there treat Danny like he would do the same thing to me responsibilities or changes that you were not ready for without him ever giving me a reason to feel that way. I and how did you cope with them? had it in my mind that he was going to cheat on me or Danny: I feel that in our early years do something to hurt me. He was of marriage it was hard because my so patient with me, and I still thank wife had been by herself for so many him to this day for not giving up on years. She wasn’t used to someone (a me. Thanks be to God I went up for man) making major decisions in the prayer one Sunday and asked God house. The way that I coped with this to remove all my insecurities and was we came to an agreement that we He did just that. I can honestly say would discuss everything, but I would that was the only issue we had in have the final decision. I told my wife our marriage and thank God I got that in a loving Christian marriage, over that hurdle. I feel free and the that is what a husband should do, be past 11 years have been amazing the covering of his household. after the first two rough ones. Tracey: I had to learn how to share. I was single for seven years before G&G: Being leaders of your I met Danny, so I had to learn that church, are there ever times when it wasn’t always about me and my you must leave your differences at feelings. I had to learn to let him take home and go to church with your the lead and trust his judgement. I am ‘game face’ on? What helps you to so glad I did because he has never love your spouse even when you failed or disappointed me to this day. disagree? Danny: I feel that being a leader G&G: I believe it is safe to say that comes with responsibilities and during 13 years of marriage there you need to leave any and all have been ups and downs. What has Date Day at Sight and Sound Theater in Pennsylvania Continued on page 10 Grace&Glory 9 Grace&Glory 9
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differences under the blood of Jesus so every time before we head out to church, we pray together and ask the Lord that if we have said anything in word or deed to forgive us and help us to forgive each other. What helps me love my wife even when I disagree is that I realize that we are one, but we are two different people that will not always agree on everything. Tracey: One good thing about our marriage is that we realize that we are one and are on the same team. If we have a disagreement, we discuss it and move on. We also know that there is a time and place for everything. If we did have what my pastors call an “intense fellowship” before church no one would ever know it because when we are at church, we are about our Father’s business and are there to serve and to worship and praise Him. And like Danny said, we forgive each other quick and move on.
Tracey: I communicate love and appreciation to my husband by constantly telling him “Thank you.” I consistently remind him that I am grateful for every big and little thing he does for me and our family. I make sure to affirm him by saying “there is a King in you” every single morning. I remind him tons of times during the day that “I love you, my rockstar.” I act silly to make him laugh. We keep our marriage alive and exciting because we have fun together. We study the Bible together. We try new foods together. We’ll go on weekend adventures and take day trips together. I believe our marriage thrives simply because we know and believe we are in this together.
G&G: What is your favorite thing about being married to your spouse? Danny: There are so many things that I enjoy about being married to my wife, but I would have to say it’s her always speaking life into me every day before I head out each day ♦♦♦ saying, “There’s A King In You.” Tracey: I have too many, but a G&G: How do you couple of things is that he listens communicate love and to me, takes care of me, and appreciation to your spouse? feeds me (LOL). I never have to Would you say you have a Celebrating Danny’s 44th Birthday in 2009 prompt him for nothing. I can ‘love language’? What do you mention something in general conversation and the next do to keep your relationship growing, alive, new, etc.? thing I know he is making it happen or it shows up. He is Danny: The way that I communicate love and a great cook, and he takes pleasure daily in making sure appreciation to my wife is I love surprising her when that I am fed well. I love that we like the same things she least expects it. Not waiting on a special day but a and seamlessly work together in every area of our lives “just because I love you” day. I love to see the smile on (home, church, business, etc.). her face when she comes downstairs in the morning or comes home from work, and she sees a bouquet of her favorite flowers. I know that what it took for us to fall in love it takes the same thing for us to keep growing in love as the years go by. I know that we have a love that is so strong that one of us always says what the other one is thinking. It even gets funnier when we both get ready to say something and we both say the same thing. I think that a relationship is like a new vehicle. As the years go by, you will have to change the oil, rotate the tires, etc. to keep your vehicle in good condition. A relationship is the same way. You will have to make changes and adjustments along the way. 10 10 February 20222022 February
G&G: Are there any married couples you look up to and admire? What is it that you respect about their marriages? Danny: I would have to say that I admire our pastors and how they are a team in and out of church. Tracey: I agree with Danny. Our pastors are who I look up to and admire. They practice what they preach. I admire their “family first” approach. They instill in us that our first ministry is our home and then church. G&G: Was there any advice you received before you got married, that has helped you during these 13 years of marriage?
Danny: Yes, let your main circle consist of you and your spouse because at the end of the day it’s you and your spouse. Tracey: I will always remember our pastors’ wise counsel during premarital counseling, “You are God’s provision for each other.” Trust that God gave you just what you needed and that is more than enough. ♦♦♦
Q&A
disrespected or embarrassed in public but also if I was degraded in private too. Tracey: I don’t struggle with forgiveness; it’s moving forward for me. Minor things I can get over and if it is major, I will forgive you, but I don’t think we could move forward in the same manner if you hurt me. There would be a shift.
G&G: In today’s society G&G: Is there anything that you wish Christian marriages seem to end you had known or done earlier in your in divorce just as frequently as marriage? Anything you did not figure out their secular counterparts. What until later that you would advise a newly do you think it means to be a married couple? good spouse? What makes a Danny: No, I would just advise a newly successful marriage? married couple to talk and understand Danny: I feel being a good that you will not agree on everything. spouse is using the 80/20% rule Tracey: I wish I didn’t bring past hurts knowing that one day you may and insecurities into the first couple of have to give or do more than years of our marriage. My advice would your spouse but at the end of the be to make sure you are healed and day it’s 100% love between the remember to not treat your spouse like Picture in front of fire place: Christmas 2021 both of you. I feel a successful they were the ones that hurt you. marriage consists of you getting to know your spouse over the years and making the adjustments to keep each G&G: Lastly, how has your faith in God played a role in other happy and in love. your marriage? Tracey: To be a good spouse you must be friends first. Danny: I can truly say that we have kept God in the A true friend will keep it real with you and keep you center of our marriage. He is the third person in the straight. Communication is the key to a successful three-string cord in our marriage that cannot be broken marriage. Danny and I talk about everything and keep (Ecclesiastes 4:12). each other abreast of every area of our lives. Tracey: I believe we have a successful marriage because we put G&G: Which of your marriage vows do you think is the our faith first in most important? our marriage. Danny: The most important marriage vow to me is “to We always pray have and to hold from this day forward.” That means together, anoint from here on out, I receive her and will take care of her. each other with Tracey: My favorite part is “for better or for worse.” oil, study the Bible You know from jump that there will be good days and bad together, and days. You are making a vow that no matter what state we serve in ministry are in, we will stay together. as a unit. We keep God at the center G&G: I am sure forgiveness plays a key role in a and like Danny successful marriage. Are there any situations that can be said, He is the difficult or even impossible to forgive? third person in the Danny: Forgiveness is a major part of a successful three-string cord in marriage, and we have to use Jesus’s model and forgive our marriage that each other 70 times seven (Matthew 18:21-22). Words cannot be broken Sweetheart Selfie can hurt. I would struggle with forgiveness if I was (Ecclesiastes 4:12). Grace&Glory 11
trinkets to triumph
Tracey
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Dream to Destiny I had the perfect picture of him in my mind. I prayed and praised God in advance for him. I now pursue my purpose with him. His name is Danny, my dream manifested. Since we are celebrating the season of love, I want to share with you my journey from Ms. to Mrs. that was full of treats and trials but in the end, God blessed me to dare to dream, fulfilled my destiny and gave me double for my trouble.
We are friends first. We also date often and a good number of our dates are “date night in.” These are my favorites! We usually eat and play our made-up game of “name that song.” Is our marriage perfect? Absolutely not but we serve the perfect one, Jesus. Knowing that gives us the consolation that come what may, we can conquer anything and are always victorious.
Love Lost I was courting a guy and eventually got engaged. We got down to our last counseling session and he declared that he was not willing to serve God. This was alarming to me because my Lord was everything to me. I thought, “How can two walk together if they do not agree?” (Amos 3:3). This perfect relationship was missing the major link, Jesus. I called the wedding off and ended the relationship. People couldn’t believe I ended my relationship over this one thing, but they failed to realize this one thing was my everything.
Looking for Love – Your Camel is Coming One of my favorite Biblical stories is when Abraham sent his servant to find a wife for his son, Isaac, with specific instructions, confidence that the angels will go before him, and ten camels loaded with gifts (Genesis 24). His servant was successful because he first prayed for victory. The servant didn’t even get a chance to finish his prayer before God had Rebekah positioned and coming to encounter the servant. While he was still praying, God answered his prayer and Rebekah showed up. Both parties were blessed when they saw the camels coming. Rebekah and her family received gifts that the camels carried, and Isaac saw the camels coming and went out to meet them when the servant came back with Rebekah.
The breakup was devastating. I didn’t know if I would ever find love again, but I was willing to risk it all for my Lord. I wiped my tears one evening and promised myself my mourning was over. I prayed, “Lord I did this for you, now do this for me: give me double for my trouble.” Love Without A Limit I met Danny through a mutual friend. He was her husband’s best friend who, at the time, was going through a distressing divorce vowing to never to marry again. Our friend knew after he was done healing, he would be ready for love again. She knew I was single and ready to meet my mate. Since Danny started attending our church, I also had my eye on him but never made a move. He approached me one day and, after a few encounters, we went out for coffee. Fast forward eleven years from that day, we are still having conversations over coffee. We dated exactly for one year and got married. The first couple of years was saturated with struggles because of my insecurities. With God’s grace, we were able to conquer those shady situations that I created in my head and our bond became stronger. The biggest blessing in our marriage is communication. We walk in wedded bliss because God is at the center of our lives. We make it a point to together pray, study the Bible, and serve in ministry as a unit. Jesus is the key part of the three-cord braid of our marriage that is not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
Your camel is coming. In the meantime: • Write the vision of your desired mate including negotiable and non-negotiable items. • Give all of your time to God in the meantime. • Be who you want to attract. • Be ready and occupy yourself in the meantime. • Let God bring you your mate. • Wait on the promise of God and never settle. Love at Last - D.R.E.A.M. Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). God gave me double for my trouble and exceeded my dream for my mate. Taking matters into your own hands only delays the process. I created the acronym, D.R.E.A.M., to encourage singles to dream and believe God for their mate because, “Dreams Really Eventually Appear Manifested.” Don’t grow weary in well doing for in due season you will reap if you faint not (Galatians 6:9). Dare to D.R.E.A.M. because Dreams Really Eventually Appear Manifested. Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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missions ministry
Kristy
What is “missions”? One of Merriam Webster’s definitions for “mission” is a ministry commissioned by a religious organization to propagate its faith or carry-on humanitarian work. For years, this was the backdrop of European colonization, followed by more recent practices of engagement where 20 February 2022
Herring
American Christian leaders traveled to Africa or Asia to preach the Gospel with missionaries distributing food to the poor and almost certainly spending time playing with orphaned children. However, today’s mission experiences are evolving into relational encounters that celebrate collaboration and honor the diverse ideas, cultural norms, and indigenous best practices of others as an avenue to display the love of Christ and His will for His people. Essentially, “missions” is an opportunity to build a relationship with a community and to partner in long-term work to improve lives-spiritually and practically. Many organizations, like Ministry Beyond Myself
(MBM), a nonprofit in Windsor Mill, Maryland, embraces this type of engagement. Created in 2007, MBM supports children and families through education and economic development projects in Baltimore, Maryland, La Haciendita, Mexico and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. We are known for our dedication to relationship building and partnering with communities for change. Through our programs: not orphans, The Great Connection (TGC), Beyond C2 and Para La Comunidad (For the Community), MBM continues to deepen its impact and expand its reach. Locally, TGC offers community engagement workshops for churches, while Beyond C2 provides global education courses and servicelearning opportunities for youth. MBM also partners with local organizations on projects to build relationships with newly arrived migrants and refugees to support their resettlement. In La Haciendita, Para La Comunidad
supports women-led startups including a community store, home based barbershop, and nail salon. We have also funded irrigation projects and planted hundreds of fruit trees. COVID-19 and recent frigid temperatures have negatively
impacted small businesses in this community of 600 families and an infusion of funds is desperately needed for their recovery. In 2018, MBM partnered with Emilio Carranza Primary School and CSR Santa Isabel y Dolores Clinic. We have provided curriculum, classroom equipment and constructed bathrooms. Like most schools, Emilio Carranza has had limited in-person instruction. Consequently, students need laptops and access to the internet to participate in
online learning. Similarly, the clinic faces many challenges. It has limited resources yet serves four communities and regularly needs medical supplies and functioning equipment. A fully operating clinic is critical as the closest hospital is 45 minutes away. Prior to the pandemic, MBM hosted bi-annual service-learning trips to Mexico allowing us to regularly deliver needed supplies. In addition to working in Mexico, we provide educational support to children in Santo Domingo. Last year, we launched a popup school for children in a squatter community. After a fall hiatus, we are reopening this year from January to June. This outreach is in addition to our sponsorship program that pays school expenses for children in an orphanage. MBM is committed to children and families and will continue to model relationship building in its mission work worldwide. Kristy Herring is the Founder and Executive Director of Ministry Beyond Myself. For more information email info@ ministrybeyondmyself.org or call 443-595-7626. Be sure to visit www. ministrybeyondmyself.org TODAY!
Grace&Glory 21
joy bringer
Season
BOWERS 22 22 February February2022 2022
Fire of Love
It’s cold! As I write this I am bundled and cozy, wishing I had a fireplace. The smell, the crackle, and the flickering glow of a fire brings comfort and joy. There is something about a fire that conjures up feelings of romance and love. Perhaps it’s because a fire draws us in close.
I was in my mid 20s when I was informed that the word was “bonfire” not “bond-fire”. I was a bit embarrassed, yet grateful to be corrected, however, I still choose to call it a “bond-fire”. Isn’t that what happens? A bonfire brings people together, it is meant to be shared. Stories and songs, food, laughs, intimacy and wonder happen around a fire. It’s ancient. Fire has been a part of human existence since the beginning of time and vital to our survival, but it’s not just important to us, fire is important to God. Scripture speaks about fire in many ways. It is first mentioned in Genesis 3 and used to guard the gates of Eden and all throughout as a symbol of the presence of God, a name for the Holy Spirit. It's used for purification and strengthening, a tool of destruction, and even a sign of the glory of God. Growing up we had a firepit in our backyard. My dad loved a roaring fire, but what good is a firepit if there is nothing to burn? Anytime my father saw a wood pallet on the side of the road, or a large piece of wood just about anywhere, he would pull over, and put it in the back of his truck. “This will burn!” He would say with boyish anticipation. But it wasn’t just the fire that brought him joy. He loved the process: finding the right wood, gathering the kindling, arranging all the
pieces to achieve the perfect placement for optimum oxygen flow, the strike of the match, and of course the moment of greatest delight - ignition.
But it doesn’t end there. It takes effort to keep a fire burning. Bonfire enthusiasts, and anyone past the honeymoon phase in a relationship can attest to that. To enjoy a continual burn, there must be fire, but to keep the fire burning there must be something to burn. And that takes effort. When it comes to love, it’s not the flowers, chocolate, or diamonds that keep the fire burning (although they don’t hurt), it’s the real love stuff that makes a difference. Real love, according to scripture, isn't flowery and sweet. It’s not cute or packaged perfectly in a little blue box. Real love according to the Word is sacrificial (John 15:13). It’s the sacrifice that we make on the altar of love that keeps the fire burning. In the book of Leviticus, the Lord gives Moses very clear instructions regarding the offerings and sacrifices, and He says, “The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out” (6:13). Did the Lord need the sacrifices of the people to keep the fire burning? No. God can create fire on His own. The fire was a sign of the Lord’s continual power, ministry, and love on behalf of His children. But again, why did God need the people to provide the wood or sacrifices to keep it burning? I believe it’s not that He needed it, He wanted it. The Lord desires for us to be in relationship with Him, to receive His love, and in return give our lives. The sacrificial offering was worship, a sign of their love and gratitude.
Often in the beginning of a relationship we are willing to sacrifice anything to be with the one we love. Similarly, as new believers we are willing to give up everything to follow Jesus, but over time if we aren’t careful the fire often fades. Perhaps, because we get comfortable. We become casual and familiar with the one we love and lose sight of their value. We stop contributing and our focus fades. A fire without fuel dies out. An unwatched fire can cause destruction or even bring ruin. Not so with the fire of God's love. His love for us, for you, never dies out; even if we neglect it or turn away. But why would we want to? His fire brings belonging and comfort, provision and protection. We draw strength from it. It gives us focus. It brings light and hope in the darkness. Next to the warmth of His loving fire we find rest. If your fire has gone from a roaring passionate one, to a barely smoldering ash pile, perhaps it’s time to sacrifice; to lay something on the altar that has taken your focus away from the eyes of love that burn for Him. The fire of Jesus’ love never goes out, because His sacrifice was ultimate. The fire of God is meant to purify and strengthen. I want that! I want my love for the Lord to be pure and strong. A love that burns bright so that others will be drawn to Him. As we celebrate love this month (but it certainly is worth celebrating everyday) let us be determined to put fuel on the fire of love for the Lord; laying ourselves down for the One who burns eternally for us. Season Bowers
Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509 Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook Grace&Glory 23
24 February 2022
Grace&Glory 25
to your good health
Dr. Carla
DEBNAM Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
26 February February 2022 2022 26
Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Love Is the Answer Our world is getting to be more challenging to navigate every day. The rules of engagement continue to change at work, in worship and in the world. We have become more cynical, more closed off and more cautious than ever. It is not only because of the pandemic but over the years we have become desensitized to the needs of those around us. We have cut off our care, concern and compassion for others and even ourselves. This has led to a way of life that shuts us off from conversations, compassion and care. How can we get past these mounting social, emotional and mental stressors without being overtaken by them? We must live with radical love. Love in action not just with words will help us through these turbulent times. Living through the tsunami of grief, sickness and pain that we see now and will be around for years to come requires us to become free to serve others in ways we have not done in the past. It is more than meeting the physical needs of people. But we must be like Jesus who went out of his way to meet up with the woman at the well who had been married five times
and the man living in the cemetery cutting himself. These encounters changed the trajectory of their lives. This is what people need today. They need us to go out of our way to meet them where they are and encourage them to have hope. Hope and love are the keys to enduring and overcoming the racism, classism, sexism and other ‘isms’ of the world. Hope is not unrealistic or uninformed, but our hope is in the active presence of God. Hope spurs us on to action and action is what encourages change and change takes time to manifest. We love because God first loved us. We care because God has compassion for our needs. We keep pressing because love never gives up. We can doubt our ability to love unconditionally but we cannot doubt the love of God. God gave his one only son that we might have everlasting life. Love is the answer and always will be because we were created from love and will be united by God’s love until Jesus returns. With love motivating us, we can get through the worries that will keep us from hoping and trying and working to overcome them. Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Grace&Glory 27
What is Love? Rhoda
a woman’s perspective
TURNER
There is a song by Kirk Franklin that I often sing. The song is simply titled "Love". What resonates with me the most is this one particular verse. It says, “Love a word that comes and goes. But few people really know what it means to really love somebody. Love though the tears may fade away I'm so glad your love will stay 'Cause I love You and You show me Jesus what it really means to love”. God has given us a blueprint on how to love, and it is laid out in His Word. Matthew 22:36-40 is our instruction manual. ““Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”” The beauty of the blueprint is that it isn't just given to us to read and try to figure out how to implement it on our own. Our loving Father takes it a step further and actually SHOWS us how to love by example. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 (NKJV) says: “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 28 February 2022
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.” This Scripture tells us what love is and what we should be willing to do for love's sake." Love is defined as “an intense feeling of deep affection”. Love is also a verb; it shows action. God showed us His love in action with the giving of His son; where He (Jesus) chose to show His love by willingly dying on the cross for our benefit. His love action was to give us life eternally. He showed us a love that is patient and kind. I pose this question to you: what are you willing to allow to die, to leave alone, let go of, or give away for love's sake? When I married my husband, I didn’t know much about being a wife. I had seen other wives, and had gotten advice and stories from other wives, but I didn't have firsthand knowledge or experience. All that I knew was that I loved him, and that I was willing to make him happy, even if it caused me some unhappiness. It took me to understand what love is and is not to understand that I didn’t need to be something that I was not because of love. He loved me in spite of my flaws and my inadequacies. Because of love, he was willing to suffer for a long time while I learned how to clean and cook and what it means to be a wife in the context of our relationship. Let me pause here to say that cleaning and cooking is not what defines a wife or is the "job" of the wife. Each marriage must define roles and responsibilities that work for them. For my marriage, I wanted to cook and clean. I wanted to fill that role for my house. And vice versa, because of love I was willing to suffer long while he learned what it meant to be a husband and to assume the responsibilities that that role would look like for us. You see, love is an action; it is something that gives even if you get nothing in return. We love in spite of a response. I encourage you to take inventory of how you love, what it looks like in action. Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
Grace&Glory 29
monthly manna
Min. Carenda Deonne
30 February 2022 30 February 2022
Do You Respect The Power of
LOVE ?
How do you define the word love? When you hear that word, what is the first thing that comes to mind? In addition, what is the first thing that comes to heart? Has your definition of love changed or shifted while going through the vicissitudes of life? Is your heart hardened, or are you receptive to the power of love?
I think Stephanie Mills got it right in her hit song, “I’ve learned to respect the power of love.” In that song she tells love I need you; I want you beside me, I trust you, I believe in you, and I adore you. What a dynamical way to describe love, and one’s desire for it. One thing that I have learned is that love is not just about the tingly emotions, but also the act of obedience. The bible defines love in 1 Corinthians 13:48a as patient, kind, does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. When you think about that definition, those words are all acts of obedience. Many of us have witnessed the feelings and emotions of love, but have we obeyed in patience, truth, and kindness? Not only must we focus on what love is, but we cannot forget to also focus on what love is not. I love the good book because the bible leaves no stone unturned. How often have you experienced the depth of love by being obedient to what love is, as well as to what love is not? As many of us enjoy roses and chocolates on February 14th, I pray that you would ask for
God to deepen your obedience in love. I also pray that as you go deeper in your obedience, so will your intimate love relationship with Christ; followed by yourself and others. How has God been patient, kind and trustworthy to you? How have you been patient kind and trustworthy to yourself? How have you been patient, kind and trustworthy to others? In addition, how has God acted in obedience to display what love is not? How have you acted in obedience to display what love is not to yourself and others? Until you envelope love through observation and obedience, the impact and power of love will be diluted. Love is not just a gift, but also an act of obedience. When you have a moment, reflect on John 3:16 that states, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” Remember, when you tell others you love them, it is a serious matter. There are times when you may feel God’s love is a far off, but please trust that His obedience to His word towards you is a love that will never fail. I want to encourage you today, to take your level of obedience of love to another level; may this year you truly experience and express the power of love! Live Life on The Promise of Impact! Min. Carenda Deonne Your #1 Change Agent www.carendadeonne.com
Grace&Glory 31
health matters
Let us celebrate African American History Month. Let's reflect on what it means to be a person of color today. African Americans are living longer. The death rate for African Americans 65 years and older has declined approximately 25% over 17 years. Still, African Americans are more likely to die at an earlier age. African Americans and Hispanics are more likely to have chronic health conditions. Minority communities experience increased heart disease, hypertension, substance abuse, diabetes, and depression. Studies show that younger African Americans live with or die of many conditions typically found in white Americans at older ages. Chronic disorders start early in our communities, causing individuals to succumb to the effects of the disease soon. Isolation from the Covid-19 pandemic has escalated the appearance of mental health issues. The U.S. Office of Minority Health reports suicide was the second leading cause of death for blacks or African Americans, ages 15 to 24. The death rate from suicide for black or African American men was four times greater than for African American women. Multiple factors impact the health status of minority communities. Widely accepted as social determinates of health (SDoH), areas of concern include housing, education, safety, access to nutritious food, and health care. Minority communities are plagued with substandard housing. Many individuals live in overcrowded neighborhoods and homes infected with pests, mold, and other hazards. Multiple studies identify the lack of structured learning programs in inner-city schools that support the learning needs of minority students. Violence and trauma significantly impact emotional and physical health status. Inner-city areas are food deserts where higher-priced food is available in limited grocery outlets. Minorities often delay in accessing health services due to lack of insurance, mistrust of the healthcare system, and lack of knowledge. Maryland is focused on reducing the effects of the social determinates of health that affect residents of Baltimore. A legislative
bill sponsored by then Sen. Shirley Nathan Pulliam, representing Maryland's 44th Legislative District and chair of the Senate's subcommittee on minority health disparities of the Health and Government Operations Committee, established the SDoH Taskforce. The Taskforce, chaired by Yolanda Ogbolu, PhD, RN, CRNP, and Dr. Chris Gibbons, works to identify and examine the conditions contributing to our community's health inequities. The Taskforce functions within several subcommittees; housing, social justice, education, workforce development and jobs, and health and human services. Dr. Harolyn Belcher of Kennedy Krieger Institute and myself co-chair the subcommittee on health and human services. We meet monthly with others, working synergistically to identify programs and resources that support the health and wellbeing of minorities in Baltimore. We host public forums and collaborate with non-profit agencies to reduce health disparities in our city. African Americans must make conscious efforts to improve their overall health. Reducing the consumption of cigarettes, alcohol, and high-fat diets is essential in reducing chronic disease and extending the lifespan. We must provide support through programs and initiates that increase knowledge of health hazards and foster the adaption of wellness behaviors that will change the trajectory of our health outcomes. Partnerships with community-based agencies and churches can help disseminate information and close the knowledge gaps in communities. 2022 could be the year to re-set the health outcomes of minorities in Baltimore. Consider working with my subcommittee or other subcommittees of the SDoH task force. We welcome your collaboration. Access the SDoH Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels Assistant Professor at Taskforce at https://www.umaryland. Coppin State University edu/sdh-taskforce/ DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com
32 February 2022
Grace&Glory 33
gospel & entertainment news
34 2022 34 February February 2022
. J a k c i Er
Gospel & Entertainment Tyler Perry/Madea Don’t Call It a Comeback! She Is Back Like She Never Left! February 25, 3:00pm EST on Netflix, the premier of “Madea’s Homecoming”. When asked what made Tyler Perry bring Madea back, his response was, “I was looking at the state of the world and how polarized it is, nobody’s laughing. Nobody’s getting the chance to belly laugh anymore, what tool do I have in my arsenal that can bring that kind of laughter.” Well said, and so true! We are ready and need a good laugh! I can’t wait to see it! I will be making it a Watch party, movie night, join me! Sydney Poitier Another legend in Hollywood has transitioned last month, the amazing actor, film director, and diplomat Sydney Poitier, transitioned on January 6, 2022, at the age of 94, in Los Angeles, CA. He truly made history and broke barriers in the motion picture industry as the First African American to win an Academy Award, in addition was deemed as The First Black Movie Star. He was an advocate for his race and fought racism by rejecting roles that were stereotypical. Poitier’s resume, roles, achievements, awards, and honors span over several decades, I can even remember as a child honoring him during Black History Month as we shall continue to do for years to come. You have made our people proud and have raised the bar for Black Hollywood and theater. Salute! Regina King Our heartfelt prayers and love go out to actress and director Regina King, in the unfortunate loss of her son Ian. No mother should have to feel the pain of having to bury their child, especially to suicide. Ian was an artist and Deejay; he was 26 years old. Ian was King’s only son, and they had a very tight knit relationship, so one can imagine what this journey has been and the road ahead, let’s keep Regina and her family lifted in our prayers. Tasha Cobbs Leonard Congrats to Tasha Cobbs on being honored at the Annual Urban Honors for Inspiration Impact.
News
NAACP Image Awards The 53rd Annual NAACP Image Awards will take place on, February 26, LIVE on BET, 8pm EST! You don’t want to miss this night celebrating and honoring the people of the African American Culture who are making major strides for our people, in various and diverse areas of achievement from entertainment to social justice! Congrats to all the nominees, Cee Winans, Kirk Franklin, Tamela Mann, Todd Dulaney, Jonathan McReynolds, Mali Music and Sounds Of Blackness to name a few. Keyondra Lockett Congrats to Gospel Artist Keyondra Lockett (formerly of the group Ziel’) and her sister Kim Lockett, they are making major moves in the spirit of Black History Month by launching their unisex fashion line Jolie Noire. The line will be sold in Target stores, as part of their 8th Annual Black History Month Collection. Congrats Ladies, BROWN GIRL POWER! I love it! This month, we are celebrating Love and The History of our amazing Black people, Feb 14 is love day, but we should already be intentional in making people feel loved all year long, especially in the climate we have been experiencing, give some and show some! LOVE YALL REAL BIG IN REAL LIFE!
Tyler Perry/Madea
Sydney Poitier
Regina King
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
NAACP Image Awards
Keyondra Lockett
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www.gracenglorymagazine.org
36 February 2022
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