September 2010

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SEPTEMBER 2010

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contents on the cover: Pastor Marshall F. Prentice Zion Baptist Church 1700 N. Caroline Street Baltimore, MD 21213 410-837-4181

www.zionbaptistchurchmd.org

THE PASTOR SPEAKS 8-10

Q&A Interview with Pastor Marshall F. Prentice

Pastor Marshall Prentice and Lady Elvira photos by Tyght Shots Photography

features 13 MAYOR’S JOURNAL

15 WORD ON FINANCES

Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson

A Time of Wealth Transference

17 GOVERNOR’S PAGE

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19 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC

Back to Basics

20 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS

Erika J.

25 NUTRITION & YOU

Herline A. Knights

Avoiding the Freshman Fifteen

27 BODY BASICS

Charles ‘Chizelit’ Harris

Staying Healthy While Saving Money

29 TEEN CONNECT

Pastors Greg & Tonya Dennis

Rose-Colored Glasses

31 FASHION FOCUS/ HIS TO HIM

33 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE

Cassandra Vaughn-Fox

The Grace of God

37 WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Donna Williams-Ross

In Every Issue Contributors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Jamison “Jaye” Boykin

From the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Fall Preview

Scripture Page. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Carter’s Comment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

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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

Contributors

PUBLISHER

Jackie Epps

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jackie Epps

EDITORIAL

Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Herline A. Knights Charles ‘Chizel It’ Harris Pastors Gregory and Tonya Dennis Carla J. Debnam Jamison ‘Jaye’ Boykin Donna Williams-Ross Governor Martin O’Malley Ericka Johnson Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake

Mark L. Dennis

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tyrone Akins/ Tyght Shots Photography

GRAPHIC ARTIST

Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com

PS Printing Solutions

PRINTING

Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher.

Copyright 2010. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.

Advisory Board

Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Dr. Frank M. Reid III Sr. Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, MD Dr. Jerome A. Barber Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, Hampton , VA Dr. Michael A. Battle Sr. President, ITC Seminary, Atlanta, GA Dr. Timothy Boddie Friendship Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA Bishop John R. Bryant Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook Sr. Pastor, Believers Christian Fellowship, NY Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn-Fox/Media Executive Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault The Way Family Church, CA Dr. Dennis V. Proctor Pennsylvania Avenue A.M.E. Zion Church, Baltimore, MD Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Restoring Life International Church, MD Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD

2010 Specials

Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for all your advertising needs!

-Churches, Minsitries, Christian Schools, Choirs: Inform the community of your services, programs, etc.

-Salons, Boutiques, Specialty shops: Advertise your sales.

-Businesses, Realtors, Financial Advisors: Educate consumers of your services.

For more information contact: Valarie Taylor- 443-465-2020 or 410-370-2636/info@gracenglorymagazine.org

6 September 2010 | Grace&Glory

from the editor

What About the Children?

By this time most of the children have all gone back to school. The summer seems to be just a blur, time moves so swiftly now. I remember when summer seemed to last forever and the school year would never end. But before you know it this generation of children will be adults. However, statistics show that many of our young people will not make it to twenty-one. Thus the question, “What About the Children?” (Sung by Yolanda Adams).

What about the children? An alarm needs to sound for our children. Now more than ever the Body of Christ should be focused on our children. The plight of our young people seems very grim. Our communities are plagued with teen promiscuity, teen pregnancies, teen suicide, teen gangs, teen dropouts, teen drug addiction, teen murders, and the list goes on. When a young middle school age girl decides to rob and murder not one but two people, an alarm needs to be sounded. Instead of preparing to go back to school with her peers, this young girl will be entering another kind of schoolhouse . . . a jailhouse. Instead of learning academics and life skills to prepare her for the future, her future has been cut off.

These problems may or may not be happening in your backyard, but what happens to one of us happens to all of us. We are all part of the ‘big picture’. As believers we can no longer look the other way when it comes to our young people. We cannot just throw up our hands and give up on them.

Instead we have to throw up our hands and fight for them. We have to learn the weapons of spiritual warfare and stand in the gap for our children. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

Ephesians 6:12

Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief

This year as we pray for a successful school year for the children in our individual churches, don’t leave out the children who are outside of the walls of the church. Undergird those children with prayer as well. Pray for their safety, ask God to build a hedge of protection around them. Pray for their minds, ask God to give them a sound mind, a mind to love one another. Most of all pray for their salvation, ask God to snatch them from the hands of the enemy and place them on a solid rock to stay.

What about the children? We were once children and if it wasn’t for the love of those around us and their prayers, where would we be today?

Peace and Blessings!

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QI A the pastor speaks

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nterview With

Pastor

Marshall F. Prentice Zion Baptist Church Baltimore, MD G&G: Pastor Prentice, we salute you this month as you celebrate your 25th Pastoral Anniversary! I am very excited for this opportunity to talk with you. Most pastors have shared with me that ‘preaching the gospel’ was not necessarily what they had planned to do with their lives. Was it the same for you, did you have other plans for your life before your call to ministry?

Pastor Prentice: Thank you. It is the Lord’s work, and it’s marvelous in our eyes! Yes, I too, like other pastors had no plans to preach

the gospel. It was my desire to teach elementary school and eventually move up to administration, where I could have made effective changes for a better school system. I often say like the old television sit com, “Welcome Back Carter”. It was my ultimate desire to return to the school district from which I came, in order to impact and give back to the children and the community. I was so impressed with my teachers during my era that I wanted to promote a stronger school system.

G&G: Pastor Prentice was the call to ministry a hard call to accept? Was there anyone who significantly influenced your decision about ministry?

Pastor Prentice: The call was not a hard decision to make, but a serious call to answer. Professor Marshall Tweed, one of my Christian college professors, indicated that he saw a gift in me and that I should use that gift for the Lord. Also, there was Dr. Lehman Bates, my own Pastor, whom I admire and respect. He saw the gift and encouraged me. And here I stand today, Because of Calvary!

G&G: Pastor Prentice what is your definition of a Pastor and has the role of the Pastor and the church changed since you began in ministry considering the advantages of technology today and the impact of streaming services, satellite ministry and mobile phone messages? What do you believe it takes to be a good pastor in our world today?

Pastor Prentice: A Pastor is a servant leader who serves the Godhead (Father, Son, Holy Spirit). A Pastor is an under shepherd to the congregation. A Pastor preaches, teaches, prays, and nurtures the flock wherever God places him to serve best. The role does not change. Learning to use the resources that are available to us can be helpful in serving the congregation. The lives of people have become more technical, so we must use technologies they are acquainted with. We can become antiquated, and some members have not been taught or trained in that way. We must keep up with the times. To be an effective preacher, teacher, or Pastor today, one must have a heart for the people, and love them as God loves us. God said he would give us Pastors after his own heart (Jeremiah 3:15).

G&G: With the influx of new ministries and hundreds of churches and ministries in the Baltimore community, what sets the Zion Baptist Church and your ministry apart from other churches and their ministries? How would you best describe the ministry of the Zion Baptist Church?

Pastor Prentice: Balance is the key. It is evident to me, that Zion is no different than any other church. However, Zion is characterized by its love. Many people who visit the ministry often make reference to the abundance of love they receive when they come to Zion.

The love of God permeates, saturates and radiates throughout

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the pastor speaks our church. Zion is a well balanced church for both the young and senior leveled persons. It caters to each group with common ground, and that is Christ Jesus. The Word is what we believe. We Testify of God’s love, and we allow God to Transform our lives into His image.

This is our mission statement: Teach, Testify, Transform. We are also traditional in our hymns and old Negro spirituals; therefore, blending the gospel with praise and awesome worship.

G&G: Pastor Prentice the saying goes, “Behind every successful man is a good woman.” No doubt Lady Elvira Prentice is a very important part of your 25 years of pastoring. Would you share with us how Lady Elvira has impacted your ministry down through the years?

Pastor Prentice: I would prefer to use the term, beside every successful man. Lady Elvira is a God- centered woman. She has been a balance of support to the ministry. First, she is a servant of God. Also, in the role of my Nubian Queen she is a wife, mother, companion, and my best friend. As a child of God, she oversees the youth who come to Zion through The Baltimore City Youth Works Program. She has been the Director of our Christian Education Department for many years, serving God, Pastor, and the church. Lady Prentice is an anointed woman of God, with a pleasing personality and a beautiful smile that radiates the love of Christ. Her appreciation and love for me is encouraging during this journey of pastoring. Lady Prentice is God sent.

G&G: Pastor Prentice it has been said in today’s society that it is hard to tell the

difference between believers and nonbelievers. During your years of pastoring have you found any areas of ministry frustrating or difficult? What should be the focus of the church in these wavering and swiftly changing times?

Pastor Prentice: I found challenging moments because of what I call perversion of the gospel, which sends confusing messages to people. The church which stands as a voice of God has been conditioned to tone down the voice of God, so people will feel comfortable living in ways that are contrary to the true gospel of Christ. It is often referred to as being politically correct, culturally correct, and socially correct. We are made to feel guilty for standing up for our moral beliefs. Immoral behavior has infiltrated the church, and has become the norm among many churches. However, His truth is still being preached to those willing to hear and receive it. 2Timothy 4:2 reminds us that we must preach the Word in season and out of season, and John 8:32 declares, The truth will make us free.

G&G: Periodically in the media there is controversy that surrounds pastors and ministers. For many of our youth today trust is a major issue for them when it comes to church. How do we gain the trust of our youth and what are some things that can be done to attract them to church?

Pastor Prentice: There needs to be a consistency of Christian character in teaching and in living. Although the message must be true gospel, the method may need to change. If young people could see and witness the power and demonstration of God in the lives of people today, I believe it would attract them, encourage them, and move them to a point that they too would embrace the fellowship/ worship within the body of Christ. There needs to be consistency and balance of His Word, His Spirit, and application of Him living in His people. He is living proof of a loving God. G&G: Pastor Prentice lastly, can you share with us where you believe ministry is headed in the coming years, what do you believe is on the heart of the Father?

Pastor Prentice: Optimistically, I hope ministry will impact lives in a way that God intended from the beginning, when he sent forth his disciples. Ministry must continue to testify of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jim Rayburn, stated, “It must first meet people where they are, address their needs, and lift up the gospel of Jesus Christ.” We call this evangelism. I repeat, The message must remain the same, but the methods have to be altered. Ministry must be about kingdom work, not religious rhetoric. The true gospel, when preached, will lead people to the saving grace of Christ through sanctification. We must continue to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God, in Christ Jesus (Phil 3:14).

Lady Elvira & Pastor Marshall Prentice

Interviewed by Jackie Epps www.gracenglorymagazine.org 99 www.gracenglorymagazine.org

from the pastor’s desk

Zion Baptist Church Celebrates the 25th Anniversary of Pastor Marshall Frank Prentice

Pastor Marshall Frank Prentice Zion Baptist Church 1700 N. Caroline Street Baltimore, MD 21213

Pre-Anniversary Services: Tuesday, September 7, 2010 6:45 pm- Worship Services at Zion Tuesday, September 14, 2010 6:45 pm- Worship Services at Zion

Anniversary Services: Sunday, September 19, 2010 7:45 am & 11:00 am Worship Services & Reception at Zion Pastor Lehman D. Bates, Guest Preacher

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Dr. Marshall F. Prentice is the Pastor of Zion Baptist Church, a progressive, urban congregation in the heart of Baltimore, Maryland.

Pastor Prentice, a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, graduated from Geneva College with an equivalent of a double major, Elementary Education and Theology. He received a Master’s Degree in Counseling Education from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Divinity Degree from the Samuel D. Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia.

Under the pastorship of Dr. Lehman Bates, Pastor Prentice was licensed and ordained by Victory Baptist Church in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Seven years prior to becoming the under shepherd of Zion, he served as the Pastor of the First Antioch Baptist Church of Greensburgh, Pennsylvania. An anointed and beloved man of God, Zion disciples affectionately refer to him as “Pastor”.

Pastor Prentice, a humble servant, has held many positions since coming to Baltimore. Some of those positions include: • Past President of Clergy United for Renewal of East Baltimore (C.U.R.E.) • Past President of the Progressive Baptist Convention for the State of Maryland

• Past Co-Chair of Baltimoreans United in Leadership Development (B.U.I.L.D), Clergy Caucus Standing firmly on the doctrine of his favorite scripture- Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jews first, and also the Greek”, Pastor Prentice has preached the Word in Africa and throughout the United States.

A great supporter of higher education, Pastor Prentice’s leadership is evident in the church’s support of the United Negro College Fund, Coppin State University, Morgan State University and other historically Black colleges and universities. In obedience to God, one of Pastor’s visions has become a reality. In September 2004, Zion opened the first Christian middle school in Baltimore that is devoted solely to educating students in grades 6, 7, and 8, Zion Christian Middle School.

On February 28, 2009, Pastor Prentice received the Coppin State University Vision Award.

Pastor Prentice is married to the former Elvira Johnson, and they are the proud parents of three – Tonya, Preston and Kevin. They are also the proud grandparents of two grandsons, Brandon Jamaal and Konner Anthony.

scripture page

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.

11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.

12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

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mayor’s journal

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word on finances

A Time of Wealth Transference The term wealth transference is not stated in the scriptures, however the scriptures validate that there are seasons and times when God causes the wealth of this earth to be lost by those who abuse its purpose and come into the possession of those who will use it for its intended purpose. I don’t want to sound too political, yet I want to share with you what I see happening in the earth, economically. In the book of Revelation, we see a prophetic picture of what can happen when politicians and businessmen use the wealth for just self pleasures and immorality. (Revelation 18:1-3) Revelation 18:1-3 (New King James Version) The Fall of Babylon the Great 1

After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illuminated with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily[a] with a loud voice, saying, “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a prison for every foul spirit, and a cage for every unclean and hated bird! 3 For all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury.”

This account in Revelation speaks of Babylon’s fall. Babylon is a type of the World’s system. It speaks of its philosophy, ideals and cultural environment; a culture or spiritual climate whose dominating influence is self-pleasure, not the pleasures of God. In the last several years we have seen God judge the spirit of Babylon in this nation. Recent corporate and CEO collapses are not coincidental, but a prophetic picture of how those who abuse God’s resources can lose it. God is a just God and His purpose for wealth in the earth is not just for personal pleasures and comfort or even to be used to oppress and control the poor, but rather to serve and empower them. (James 5:1-5) James 5:1-5 (New King James Version) Rich Oppressors Will Be Judged 1 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days. 4 Indeed the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and

the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth.[a] 5 You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury; you have fattened your hearts as[b] in a day of slaughter.

When we are blessed with the abundance of resources and wealth, it is so important we stay humble and be ready and willing to distribute and share with others. Also, I believe above all, use the wealth to produce good works. In other words, use the resources to add benefit and value to human lives; empower and rebuild our desolate neighborhoods; create new jobs and opportunities for others to live productive lives.

Here lie the core reasons for wealth transference.

1. God is a Just God. Wealth transference is predicated on the promise that God still executes justice in the earth. (Proverbs 13:20) Proverbs 13:20 (New King James Version) 20 He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed.

2. God is a covenant keeping God. According to Deuteronomy 8:18, wealth is to be used to establish or manifest His covenant in the earth.

Deuteronomy 8:18 (New King James Version) Dr. Kenneth O. 18 Robinson, II And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His Pastor & Certified covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Estate Planner

This passage is an end-time account that depicts God’s judgment To book Dr. Kenneth against those who abuse the wealth. I feel it is appropriate here to say that God has no problem with people enjoying the wealth and riches Robinson for a financial we might acquire. The challenge is to use it also for its intended seminar in your area purpose. God’s plan for the financially successful is stated here in the or at your ministry, Apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy. (I Timothy 6:17-19) please call

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (New King James Version) 410.415.6400 Instructions to the Rich 17 Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18 Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, 19 storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

God’s purpose for riches and wealth can be abused by those who possess it and then there must be a wealth transfer. (Ecclesiastes 2:26) Ecclesiastes 2:26 (New King James Version) 26 For God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to a man who is good in His sight; but to the sinner He gives the work of gathering and collecting, that he may give to him who is good before God. This also is vanity and grasping for the wind.

What should be the posture of the believer in this time of wealth transference? It is certainly not to be passive but rather aggressive. We cannot in these times just sit back and say, “God will take care of me.” Although, this is a true statement, it should not invoke a passive attitude toward acquiring the wealth and resources that must come into the ownership of those who will not abuse it, but use it to promote good and advance the Kingdom of God.

There is a grace on the church in this season to get wealth despite the economy. God used Joseph as an economic prophet of his day, and his wisdom made him the HEAD and not the TAIL of his nation. He used the wealth and resources of Egypt to preserve and save his family; and to become a blessing to those who were in need. (Genesis 37 or 38)

I strongly believe that He will use the believers in Christ of our generation to acquire the wealth of this world and use it to preserve their families from the poverty and to serve the needs of our society.

Tips to be a wealth transfer recipient: 1. Trust God and not money. Our faith cannot be in cash, but in Christ. This means we must walk by faith and not by sight.

2. Take a risk. There is no financial success without taking a risk. “If you want something you’ve never had, you’ve got to do something you’ve never done.”

3. Get out of debt. This is the most important financial decision you can make today as a believer in Christ. Freedom from the spirit of debt will loosen the enemy’s control over your finances and position you for increase.

4. Think Big. Wealth is the accumulation and abundance of assets and resources. You cannot be afraid of more if you’re believing for wealth. Wealth is not a bad word in the Kingdom of God. Surround yourself with big thinkers and leave the small thinkers alone. I have found out that “thinking big,” is contagious.

In my conclusion, we must understand as believers we are in the world but not of it; we are in the recession, but not of it. The scripture says, “He became poor, that through His poverty we might become rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9) Therefore, our economy is not limited to a stimulus plan, but is derived from God’s plan.

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16 September 2010 | Grace&Glory

governor’s page

STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

MARTIN O’MALLEY GOVERNOR STATE HOUSE 100 STATE CIRCLE ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND 21401-1925 (410) 974--3901 (TOLL FREE) 1-800-811-8336

TTY USERS CALL VIA MD RELAY

A MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY Dear Friends, On August 17, I had the pleasure of swearing in the Honorable Michele D. Hotten to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals. Judge Hotten is the first African-American woman to hold a position on any appellate court in Maryland.

Judge Hotten fills the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable James P. Salmon. She brings to the appellate court extensive experience as a trial judge, as well as a diverse legal background in both private practice and government service. For 15 years, she has been an Associate Judge on the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County, serving as the Civil Coordinating Judge. Before that, she spent a year as an Associate Judge for the District Court for Prince George’s County.

Many judges and lawyers have written to me to describe Judge Hotten as impeccably prepared, uniformly fair, and a devoted legal scholar with a truly legendary work ethic. Those qualities, in addition to her sense of justice, compassion, and wisdom will allow her to excel as an appellate judge.

Before her appointment to the bench, Judge Hotten worked in private practice, representing individuals, companies, and local government in a variety of matters, including insurance cases, medical malpractice lawsuits, criminal trials, and administrative law issues. I am confident that she will serve well on the Court of Special Appeals and handle its notorious case loads with efficiency, integrity, and fairness.

Please join me in congratulating Judge Michele D. Hotten on her appointment to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals.

Sincerely

Martin O’Malley Governor

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to your good health

Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC Executive Director Renaissance Christian Counseling Center

School is back in and the time for learning has begun. Students are being acclimated to their new courses and extra-curricular activities and adults are juggling work, school and home demands, too. During this demanding season of life, it is good to take time out to review the methods and practices that will make life more manageable and less stressful. Tension is sometimes heightened during this time of getting back into gear with the normal routine now that summer is unofficially over. The stress of managing multiple priorities can become overwhelming and bring persons into a cycle of actions that ultimately drain them and decreases productivity. Starting this busy season off in the best frame of mind takes implementation of a few skills we can all use to help us: time management, priority setting and organizational skills.

Time management is an important factor in reducing stress and getting the activities on our schedules completed. A blank calendar located in a place that everyone can see is one-step toward making sure everyone’s schedule is documented. Getting a handle on the whereabouts of the family, staff at work or your own personal schedule will enable you to make adjustments that take into account the time needed to accomplish the task as well as the time it may take to get from one appointment to the other. Knowing when to leave the house, work or meeting helps you get to the next place on time. After documenting all of the activities, priority setting is the next step. Some events on the calendar may have to be shifted or eliminated based on the priorities you set in your family, work or church.

Setting priorities is easier said than done. Priorities change based upon what is going on and who is sets them. It is critical to know what should be eliminated and what is necessary. This can be challenging when you have to set priorities for multiple person and in multiple settings. No matter what area of your life takes precedence, make sure that you have adequate time for family, friends, worship and Bible study. Many times these are the areas we squeeze out when school, work and sports commitments seem to take over. God should be first on our priority list and on our schedule. In our fast paced over committed lives, the things and ways of God get pushed to the background. James 4:13-15 reminds us of the finiteness of our lives, “Now listen, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money. Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” We can make our schedules and set priorities but ultimately, the Lord orders our steps.

Getting back to basics is a theme that we all can adopt in our lives. Simplifying our lives and eliminating the tasks and activities that are not in line with the vision we have for our family, faith or work life will take time. For some it will take an assessment of our lives in order to ease the stress of our daily lives. For others it means reorganizing what is on the ‘to do’ list. Life can become complicated but with a little time, spent prioritizing your schedule and eliminating the unnecessary tasks on your schedule you can find the time to do the things you have squeezed out of your life. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 19

gospel industry news

Gospel

By Ericka J.

Jonathan Nelson . . . Baltimore,

if you missed the live recording session of Jonathan Nelson featuring PURPOSE back on February 26,2010, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, he’s coming home for the ‘official’ CD Release concert of his latest project “Better Days.” The concert will be held on Tuesday, September 14, 2010, 7:30pm at the Empowerment Temple AME Church, Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, Host Pastor.

In speaking with Jonathan about bringing the release back home he says, “I’m releasing in B’mer because it’s my home, it’s where it all started for me. I’m so excited about it! I cannot wait for Baltimore to hear and be inspired by this next offering. I also want the up and coming artists to see how if you’re faithful over a few things, in due time God will reveal a greater work in you. Don’t lose your dreams or hopes, but “BE” what he called you to be.”

His single ‘Expect the Great’ released mid June is already in the top 20, currently charting at #14 on Radio Billboard Charts and still climbing!

‘Expect the Great’ was inspired by a concept given to him by another notable Baltimore singer/songwriter Darien Dennis to whom Jonathan says, “He’s eternally grateful to.”

Another Baltimore singer/songwriter on this project, making his mark James “Jimmy” Johnson is doing a great bit of writing these days, and is the mastermind behind the title cut ‘Better Days’. Grammy Award Winning producer Aaron Lindsey partnered with Jonathan to produce 20 September 2010 | Grace&Glory

this album, “helping to create a global sound for global appeal.” Baltimore’s Own Kenny “Babyboy” Shelton, is the musical director of this project and brought amazing concepts to the album. His twin brother Pastor Jason Nelson, and Kierra “Kiki” Sheard are also featured on the album and will be singing on September 14, for the release concert!!

Jonathan Nelson’s songs have been known to deliver powerful, encouraging, energetic, and catchy lyrics making him one of the industry’s most sought after songwriters.

His writing style has been likened to greats such as Walter Hawkins, Richard Smallwood, and his mentor Donald Lawrence. Tunes like ‘Everything you Are’, ‘I Am Healed’, ‘My Name is Victory’, and ‘Champions’, the titles alone speak volumes!!!

I talked with Jonathan about the album and wanted to get his take on his latest creation and here’s what he had to say, “ I believe that this is my best CD yet!

The songs will be Faith Declarations like ‘Called to Be’, ‘Performance’, and ‘Expect the Great’. This Cd is more aggressive musically and truly heartfelt. From the song ‘Another Way’, (inspired by my dad’s traumatic ordeal) to ‘I Am Your Song’, makes this project complete along with Purpose’s melodic influence. My favorite songs by far are ‘Performance’, ‘Expect the Great’, and ‘Called to Be’. We had

so much fun creating this CD. ‘Cry Holy’ and ‘Praise Saved My Life’ will be sung in many churches across the globe.”

What’s next for Jonathan Nelson? “To promote this CD across the world, to empower and encourage the people of God. To help them see and hear clearer. I won’t stop till my Mission is accomplished! Hope to see you all on September 14th, 7:30 p.m. at Empowerment Temple!”

September 14, 2010 you need to be at Empowerment Temple to show our brother our love and support! Jonathan we are proud of you, and ‘Expecting the Great’!

David Frazier . . . another well-

noted songwriter! If you don’t know him by name, you know him for his works! David Frazier is responsible for the writing of some of gospel music’s major hits! Let me familiarize you with his music. He’s penned several

gospel industry news

Music songs for Bishop Hezekiah Walker & Love Fellowship Choir songs including ‘Second Chance’, ‘Power Belongs God’, ‘I Need You to Survive’ (which will be in all Hymnals in 2011, been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, three movie soundtracks, recorded in French, Spanish, and German), ‘How Much We Can Bear’, ‘We Made It’, ‘Holy Thou Art Holy’ on Karen Clark- Sheard’s debut album, and ‘Change Will Come’ on Jonathan Nelson’s debut album. He’s also written for Yolanda Adams, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Professor James Hall & Worship and Praise, and Baltimore’s Own Mt. Hattin Baptist Church Choir.

David has just released Volume 3 of his series Psalms, Hymns, and Spirituals. It has sold more than 14,000 copies independently in eight months. His first single on that project ‘Favor’, which is in heavy rotation, so much so, Pastor Shirley Caesar, recorded it and released it as a single herself, and is now nominated for a 2011 Stellar Award for ‘Song of the Year’! This is David’s third ‘Song of the Year’ nomination. His second single ‘Be a Worship’ released in June has now surpassed ‘Favor’ in downloads on iTunes. This album has no computerized music, all real strings, horns, etc., and features some of gospel music’s noted musicians, Jamar Jones (The Potter’s House), Cory Henry (Brooklyn, NY), and PJ Morgan. My personal favorite on this album is ‘God has a Plan’. I LOVE IT! When I asked David to give advice to aspiring songwriters he said, “One of the keys to successful song writing is finding obscure topics and subject matter, and making them musical and singable, causing people to remember it and grasp onto it.” In his songwriters’ workshops he teaches, “When writing you should always pray and ask God to open your ears to the sound of heaven, then you will write songs that will outlive you.”

That’s information to grow on songwriters . . .

both seasoned and aspiring!

You can purchase David Frazier’s music in Baltimore at the Upward Way Christian Bookstore on York Road. Online at amazon. com, cdbaby.com, davidfraziermusic.com, on face book www.facebook.com/davidfrazier, or follow him on twitter www.twitter.com/ daveslyric

Ricky Dillard & New G . . . announced

David Frazier

publicly at the recent taping of Bobby Jones Gospel, in Washington, D.C. that Ricky Dillard & New G have signed to a new label Light Records, and before the year is out they are planning to do a live recording!!!!!

U know Ricky Dillard never fails to deliver GREAT CHOIR MUSIC! I’m so excited for them! Congrats you guys! More details to come!!

Fantasia Barrino

Ricky Dillard

Fantasia Barrino

. . . on August 9, 2010 singer Fantasia, was hospitalized for an overdose of aspirin and sleeping pills.

On August 11, she was released from the hospital, and is home recovering in her North Carolina home. Whether it was accidental or intentional, has not been confirmed. However, we the Body of Christ have got to continue to cover our own! Even when they venture out and spread their gift mainstream or secular.

That’s when the enemy feels he really has them!

“Fantasia as a fellow PK (Preacher’s Kid) and I’m covering you in prayer that God will restore your joy, health, and your relationship with him!”

Follow me on www.twitter.com/MissErickaJ, www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson, Love You much family! Till next month . . . Take care! U survived it, so live because of it, live thru it, live above it and live in spite of it! No matter what your ‘it’ is JUST LIVE!!! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 21

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24 September 2010 | Grace&Glory

Avoiding Avoidingthe the Freshman Fifteen Freshman Fifteen

nutrition & you

Despite the ubiquitous warnings, books and discussions about the “freshman fifteen” and early academic weight gain that many students succumb to the first year of college, students continue to pack on the pounds their first year away from home at colleges and universities. Many students are savvy, and recognize that they earned their larger size by over-indulging at the ice cream bar in the dining hall, too many late night pizzas, using their dining money on giant boxes of M&Ms (and eating 16 servings at once) or eating their way through too many care packages sent from home. The added pounds legitimately mollify very few freshmen.

For the registered dietitian, working with students who are struggling with new weight gain requires a combination of education and behavioral change work. Since students are living a new lifestyle, many times in a new (and temporary) housing situation, without access to a kitchen, often limited funds and unknown food handlers, education requires a detailed look at all aspects of food choices to be effective. Following are some tips to help students get back to a healthier weight.

Herline A. Knights, RD, LD

• Drink water. The easiest calories for most students to cut out are the wasted calories on sugary drinks, juices and sodas. Unlimited soda and juice bars in dining halls promote over consumption. The only thing a student should drink like water is water. Caffeine may be a part of late night studying for students – diet sodas and low fat milk in coffee are better choices than high calorie alternatives.

• The Boy Scout motto. Be prepared. Stocking a dorm room mini-fridge and makeshift pantry with water, fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, whole grain crackers, cereals and granola bars will set students up for success. Asking for care packages to be sent with favorite cereals, pre-portioned low calorie snacks, dried fruits and nuts is a great way to keep undergrads on track.

• Schedule meals. Plan classes so that there is time for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, instead of back-to-back classes. Eating every 3 – 5 hours will prevent snacking all day long, skipping meals or grabbing convenience foods – all which may lead to excessive caloric intake.

• Go green. Begin each meal with a piece of whole fruit, raw or steamed vegetables or a salad with light dressing. When getting back in line at the dining hall for seconds, students should be educated to revisit the fruits and vegetables, instead of the starches and fats. It is really hard to gain weight from overeating fresh fruits and vegetables, so these foods should be encouraged.

• Go lean. Choose lean protein sources of fish, chicken, pork and beef. Good sources of protein are also going to include eggs, legumes, tofu and nuts. Broiled, baked, grilled, steamed and poached foods are the most healthful. Avoid sauces, gravies and marinades as much as possible.

• Sleep and exercise. These essentials are not negotiable. Sleep is required for a well-oiled metabolism. Exercise is vital to maintaining a healthful weight.

• No food in the library. Keep snacking and studying separate. Use study breaks as a time to have something to eat. Choose single portion or preportioned snacks that contain carbohydrate with a little fat and or protein.

• Portion patrol. Patrol your tray to make a sure your plate looks like what would normally be given in a TV dinner, on an airplane or in a high school cafeteria ‘hot lunch’ line. Choose only one “new” food to try at a given meal (it will be served again) and fill the rest of the tray with familiar foods, fruits and vegetables. Don’t put desserts on your tray, or you will eat it. If you really want a sweet after a meal, make a special trip to get it. When the meal is over, leave the dining hall!

• Hungry? Before each meal, check in with yourself to see if you are really hungry. If you are eating for a reason other than hunger, see if a glass of water, conversation with a friend or short walk will fulfill the need.

Reference Selkowitz-Litt A. The College Student’s Guide to Eating Well on Campus. Bethesda: Tulip Hill Press, 2000.

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body basics

Staying Healthy While Saving Money!

A

Charles Harris III AFAA Certified Fitness Trainer

lthough the economy is tight, we are still fortunate in many ways. This is the perfect opportunity to get back to the fundamentals of life by enjoying family and friends. Hang in there. Your breakthrough is coming! If you are considering eliminating some luxuries, don’t let fitness be one of them. Make taking care of your health a top priority.

There are many ways to use these tough times to your advantage. A healthy lifestyle is essential because it helps relieve stress and release endorphin to keep us emotionally stable and happy. The last thing we need is to lie around and let our surroundings consume us. I always say that it’s hard for the devil to hit a moving target. It’s important to get involved with activities that make you feel good and boost your self-esteem.

Staying healthy and being active does not have to be an expensive journey.

You can join or start a walking club or group fitness class in your community. This is a free and easy way to lose and/or maintain your well being. Your local recreation center or YMCA is a great place to find fun affordable activities year round. Cycling is also a great way to enjoy the outdoors and keep fit. It’s also cheap on gas! From a nutritional stand point, most people eat better during the summer. It’s the perfect season to take some time off from the kitchen and grill your meats and vegetables. This will help you look and feel healthier.

Before leaving the house, make sure you carry some water and healthy snacks with you. This will help cut down on drinking fatty beverages and making bad food choices. Get in the habit of eating small portion meals throughout the day. Eating more frequently will boost your metabolism and prevent you from impulse eating. So now that the summer is winding down, here are a few tips to help you get started:

10 Affordable Ways to Stay Healthy!

1. Get involved with a walking or running group at work, church, or home.

2. Find an enjoyable habit and stick with it (gardening, tennis, basketball).

3. Get a fitness trainer and split the cost with some friends.

4. Prepare your food at home and avoid eating fast foods.

5. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid carbonated beverages.

6. Give back to the community by donating your time to a youth group.

7. Get some fitness DVD’s and workout at home.

8. Grill your meats and vegetables instead of cooking in the kitchen.

9. Take time to do something for YOU! 10. Spend some quiet time to rest, relax, and meditate on the Word of God! www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27

28 September 2010 | Grace&Glory

teen connect

Rose-Colored Glasses The summer swiftly moved by us and it was a blast! There were lots of things to do and enjoy. One of the fun things we did this summer was take a trip to Ocean City, Maryland.

While on the boardwalk, we stopped at several sunshade huts to try on different glasses. The ones that attracted us the most (not necessarily looked attractive on us LOL!) were the various colored glasses. Red was the color of choice and interesting enough it spoke to what we believe is a distraction to most young people’s lives. If someone thinks about or looks at something with rose-colored glasses, it is known as thinking that something is more pleasant than it really is . . . ask us how we know.

How many times have you thought about – “If I could trade my life for somebody else’s” or “I wish that I could do what my friends are doing?” You are looking through rosecolored glasses. Yes, it may seem that they have it all together and that things are great! However, you have no clue what someone may have been through or goes through, to be who they are or have what they have. It is amazing that we look at someone else’s life and jump! Yea jump to do something that

we were not necessarily supposed to do. That’s life though!

Here’s a challenge . . . check out a sunshade hut or sunglass store. Put on some rose-colored glasses you will be surprised! Everything around you will change. The thing you thought was cool or hip because your friends were doing it will suddenly become tinted (tainted). In other words it is not all that it appears to be.

One of the other things we noticed while wearing these rose tinted glasses is that they affect your normal vision.

After walking around all day with the rose-colored glasses on, other colors you could no longer describe. Blue is now purple! But it is only purple because of the object that obstructs your view. Then we noticed after removing the shades, that your vision has to take time to adjust back to seeing clearly. In our experiment everything had a tint of blue until our vision began to adjust.

You may need time as a youth or young adult to see things for what they really are. Ask God to adjust your vision so you can see things for what they really are. Learn to see what God is showing you and not what people want to present to you.

This school year be careful not to put on rose-colored glasses. In fact be the best YOU ever this year!

Pastors Gregory & Tonya Dennis

Serve at Kingdom Worship Center

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FALL review P

fashion focus – his to him

OMG! Boy did we get our share of the summer heat, and personally I think it will last a little longer than we expect before the fall weather kicks in. I found it very difficult to really make a fashion statement because the heat and the humidity were so unbearable. I found myself trying to dress as lightly as possible, usually by watching the weather channel before deciding what to wear that day. As I observed the styles, it was basically T-shirts, tank tops and shorts and even no shirts; needless to say I think it will be a while before you put away your summer gear, however you can get a head start for fall.

JAMISON “JAE” Autumn one of my favorite seasons where you can layer BOYKIN with light weight sweaters and hoodies for that brisk night air. What you will see this fall is plaid and printed shirts, dip tie dye shirts being sported with sleeves rolled up with fitted jeans, almost a western look with a twist. The no iron look will apply to the dress and casual plain front slacks, tapered dress shirts with the tie slightly undone and the top button unfastened as well. You will also see some short sleeve shirts this fall as well, the riveted zip-up fitted shirt with the banded waist which will also look great with the skinny jean.

Lightweight jacket season, here’s what new this fall, the tapered denim jacket as well as the mil-thorpe track jacket style, gives you the waist style military jacket similar to the perforated jackets from last year but with a higher collar. A fantastic look with a T-shirt and fitted jeans and just a reminder eventually you will go from your summer jeans to your fall jeans.

Suits are back and hotter than before. Styles featured this season are the conservative two button contemporary silhouette suits in your basic colors, black, gray and black. Also white houndstooth worn with the varsity spread, Windsor spread and cutaway spread shirts. Paul Frederick has the finest designs in these shirts as well as the ties to complete the look. This season you will see more striped and patterned shirts worn with the printed and striped ties, Coordinating this style into your fall wardrobe really put things into perspective and really says you know what you’re doing.

Hat wear for this season for that casual look to top things off will be the military patchwork, the block cadet and the fedora which are always a classic and gives that extra spin to most ensembles.

As the temperature drops I will be here to give you more hot fall fashions and this season you will make a statement without saying a word. Remember to embrace, possess and be blessed. Jae www.gracenglorymagazine.org 31

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Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Out Foxed Media, www.outfoxedmedia.org

I

a woman’s perspective

am blessed to work in the wonderful world of media. It has been a very blessed journey. I have had the opportunity to talk and mingle with some of the world’s celebrities in the entertainment field and politics. My career has been a one of a lifetime experience and I am grateful.

I am currently working on a documentary of two very interesting people. Their love story is one that most would think was unsavory. But after weeks of conversation one thing I have realized is that the statement that I constantly chant, “It’s by the grace of God,” is realer then I ever knew.

Let me share this with you. When you are sitting wondering about why you are struggling or feel like you are against a wall, remember you have breath, life, and opportunity to make the next day better. God spared your life to right your wrongs. Take advantage and move forward. Press on!

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word of encouragement

O

Where Are You Fishing and Who Are You Fishing For?

Donna Williams-Ross

nce when he was standing on the shore of Lake Gennesaret, the crowd was pushing in on him to better hear the Word of God. He noticed two boats tied up. The fishermen had just left them and were out scrubbing their nets. He climbed into the boat that was Simon’s and asked him to pull out a little from the shore. Sitting there, using the boat for a pulpit, he taught the crowd. When he finished teaching, he said to Simon, “Push out into deep water and let your nets out for a catch.”

Simon said, “Master, we’ve been fishing hard all night and haven’t caught even a minnow. But if you say so, I’ll let out the nets.” It was no sooner said than done—a huge haul of fish, straining the nets past capacity. They waved to their partners in the other boat to come help them. They filled both boats, nearly swamping them with the catch. Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell to his knees before Jesus. “Master, leave. I’m a sinner and can’t handle this holiness. Leave me to myself.” When they pulled in that catch of fish, awe overwhelmed Simon and everyone with him. It was the same with James and John, Zebedee’s sons, coworkers with Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “There is nothing to fear. From now on you’ll be fishing for men and women.” They pulled their boats up on the beach, left them, nets and all, and followed him. [Luke 5:1-11 – The Message Bible] Even though the description in the Bible for these verses of scriptures is about Jesus calling His disciples, I want us to look at another angle of these same verses. I therefore have entitled it, “Where are you fishing and who are you fishing for?”

Using the boat belonging to Simon Jesus taught the crowd. When He was finished teaching the people, Jesus told Peter to push out into the deep water to let down the nets for a catch. Here was Jesus telling these seasoned fishermen, who had fished all night and caught nothing to go back out into the deep water and let down their net for a catch. Peter protested for they had fished hard all night and perhaps thought to himself that they knew much more than Jesus because this was their trade – their livelihood. However, he would do it, because Jesus told him to. In the scriptures above, we see Peter being obedient and they had such a huge haul of fish that the other boats had to go help them with the catch.

Where are you fishing? Are you fishing close to the shore or are you going out into the deep as Jesus told His disciples? When you are close to the shore, you are in control of what you are able to see. It is when you are out in the deep that you are no longer in control and God has to work through you to bring the lost to Himself. In other words as you yield yourself to the Holy Spirit, He can then do His work through you.

We are living in a time when being close to the shore is not going to cut it. We are dealing with men/women who are lovers of themselves and not lovers of God, selfish, self-centered, high-minded, etc. Sad to say that selfishness, self-centeredness and high-minded attitudes are exactly what is happening in the church also.

However, if you are willing to trust God and launch out into the deep and become vulnerable and transparent you will become a fisher of men. It is time out for fishing close to the shore while people are overdosing, committing suicide, killing parents and family members, some are cold and others heartless to the point of getting what they desire in spite of the cost. Please note that it is not because the people necessarily want to be used to kill, steal and destroy, they are just pawns in the hands of the devil. The Body of Christ has to remember that we are not fighting against flesh and blood [human beings], but principalities, powers and wicked spirits in heavenly places. BODY OF CHRIST – watch and pray because time is winding down – the day of the Lord’s return is closer than when we first believed.

What are you fishing for? Are you fishing for the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh or the deceitfulness of riches? In other words are you fishing for celebrity status, the praise of man or flock abuse? Instead it is time to fish for those who have no knowledge of Christ, e.g., the unchurched, the unloved, the derelicts, the prostitutes, those who were abused and molested as children and now think it is appropriate to live an alternative lifestyle, etc.

I encourage you to launch out into the deep at the prompting of the Holy Spirit and become the fisher of men that God has ordained for you to be.

Prayer: Father, in the Name of Your Precious Son Jesus, I may not always remember that part of my assignment is to be a fisher of men, but I purpose in my heart to be more conscious of the events happening in the world right now and take my rightful place in the Body of Christ to win the lost at any cost. Amen. www.gracenglorymagazine.org

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G

carter’s commentary

ods FIRST IFT TO MAN

Genesis 2:18-4:2

In every age, God has seen fit to meet the needs of His own, even from the beginning.

God is a giver, and it pleases Him to do so. Having created Adam, God knew that he would be unspeakably lonely if he were left to exist (as a human) alone. (Note: in my book entitled Harold’s Hermeneutics I discuss some of the theology associated with this aspect of the Creation Story, in chp.1. Go to www.newshilohbaptist.org to order a copy.) Therefore, the very first need of man that was met by God was the gift of a woman; namely, Eve. “And the rib which the Lord had taken from man, made he a woman.”

All creation paused and waited unexpectedly. Stillness reigned in the garden. Long before our ancestors said that He was a doctor who’s never lost a patient, He had already come to be known as the first Surgeon, as He performed the first operation. The trees provided the shade for the hospital theatre. Adam was given earth’s first anesthetic. The birds hushed their songs.

The Holy Spirit had arranged every detail according to the divine requirements. Then, Heaven’s great Surgeon leaned over His patient and with skill born of deity went to work. He, alas, closed the wound on Adam’s side and pleasingly gazed at His unconscious patient. What a wonderful surprise would await Adam when he would come to himself and open his eyes, again.

“And the Lord God brought her to man.”

She was indescribably lovely (play on words… again, note Harold’s Hermeneutics). She was as dignified and befitted the queen of creation. Her eyes were lit with inquiry and pleasure as she scanned her surroundings, especially Adam. She was both tempered and soft… softer than the morning dew. Her movements were graceful and effortless, and when she spoke, joy thrilled the Surgeon’s heart. She was fascinatingly beautiful. Like all that had been created before her, she was good, and very desirable.

Poor Adam was simply speechless. It was the first love at first sight. He wondered if it were a dream; if this earth angel would disappear immediately at his awakening. But, he was awake. He rubbed his eyes, and she was still there. Poor Adam. He was shy, inexperienced; he had never had a sweetheart. Yet, love was born in his soul.

The wedding took place within the sacred precincts of God’s open-air cathedral. God, the Father of the bride, gave her away; humanity’s Best Friend stood at the groom’s side; and the Holy Spirit was the officiating/presiding minister. When the first service of holy matrimony was over, the angelic choirs of heaven sang their anthems accompanied by those birds who could no longer hold their peace. The couple honeymooned amidst the tranquility that only that garden could provide, as the first couple set off on their life’s journey walking hand in hand.

“Therefore shall a man… cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”

They talked. They planned. They shared. They loved. Time passed until stark tragedy overwhelmed them. They sinned and forfeited their unique and innocent companionship with their creator, God. They, as a result, were cast out of their garden home.

Yet, in their time of shame and sorrow, a new miracle—another first—occurred, and their future grew bright again with promise. Eve whispered her secret to Adam. His heart overflowed. He watched her quiet preparations and when she smiled, heaven filled his heart. They could hardly wait for the coming of their treasure… their very own bundle of joy.

“I have gotten a man from the Lord.”

On that blessed day, Eve looked into the starry eyes of her child and knew that her gift… their gift had come from the Lord. That night, there were three at the altar. In due time, there’d be four. Eve had become the first female, the first wife, and the first mother. And, thus the purposes of God began to unfold. For out of this ancient narrative, the earliest (yes, the first) foreshadowing’s of God’s Great Miracle emerge.

Indeed, He always sees the end from the beginning; and so our firsts are often His lasts. He saw and knew that in the dim and distant future, the second Adam would sink into a deep “sleep.” He saw the miracle that he would perform when, through the death of the cross, having been cut in his side, the bride of Christ would be brought into being. He knew that He so loved what He’d created that He’d give His only begotten Son…. He saw and He knew that the Church, radiant as the morning, without spot or blemish would be presented to the Bridegroom and one day, at the marriage supper of the Lamb, the voices of heaven would ring with the songs of the redeemed.

Written in loving tribute to the First Lady in my life, my wife of 26 years (Aug.11).

Happy Anniversary!

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