...Are You Listening? Mt 28:6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
...This Issue Dr. Jones Words of Reflection
Lady Lisa Encouraging Words
Puzzle Monday Night Manna
Eva Johnson Spotlight
Denise Leblanc Let’s Talk About It!
April 2011
Newsletter Edition
Every Dream Has An Associated Cost Dr. Mark T. Jones Apostle & Founder Manifestations Worldwide Inc
There is no shortage of ambition in the house of God and among Godâ€&#x;s people. Most seem to have dreams, visions, and various revelations of the Lordâ€&#x;s will concerning their lives, or their futures. In spite of this reality, most never accomplish or fulfill their dreams because they either do not understand that every dream has a cost associated with it, or they are not willing to pay the associated costs. As we consider the will of the Lord for our lives in this season, it is imperative that we count the cost; and that we set our hearts to be all, do all, and have all that God has purposed concerning our lives. Understand believer, that nothing is free except salvation, yet it also cost someone,
something. Anything of true significance and true importance also has true value, and as such it has an associated cost. It is my encouragement to you, that you will allow yourself to see beyond the reality of being the benefactor of the lavish prophetic words that prevail over your life, and see rather the price that must be paid to fulfill Godâ€&#x;s will and purpose, and accept it.
Very often, people of purpose and destiny fail to leave an ineradicable mark on either society or mankind, only to retreat to the heavens without maximizing their God-given and intended potential. Dr. Mark T. Jones, Sr. is not only maximizing what God has deposited in him, but he is also empowering the people of God to fulfill their purpose on the earth. In this season, he is a voice for the voiceless. His messages compel the attention of those who seek to discover their purpose in life and launch their destiny.
Lady Lisa Jones
Pretty Wings As long as I can remember, I had a great fascination for butterflies; I just never knew what they went through for the beauty and grace to emerge. The way a butterfly starts out does not always seem favorable. In its beginning stages, as the caterpillar, it struggles to survive and sustain in the cycle of life. When I was in a deep emotional pit in my life, I read a poster in the daycare where I was employed at the time. This verse would be the first thing that I would allow to motivate me in the things of God. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. This scripture could not have come at a better time in my life. Reading this scripture was the anchor that would keep me emotionally afloat through the new storms that I would be approaching. I was struggling with my walk with God; which included pains from my past childhood abuse, both sexually and emotionally. Being new to Christianity I thought that life would be perfect and pain free. I never realized that all that I had endured was similar to the life of the caterpillar; thus finally coming to that moment in life where nothing else mattered. I was cocooning because that’s what I needed to do to be able to survive. Feeling that the cocoon was another form of punishment in my life, I was unsure;
yet, not knowing this was my escape. I felt alone, misunderstood, and unprepared for the next step or expectations of me now. As I began to struggle, I became uneasy when it was my time to emerge. For I assumed that the people around me would help, since they were stronger and well ahead of me in the process. I was cocooned “out there” in a place where many couldn’t reach me, but the Lord allowed that place to be intentional and strategic. He began to show me that the plan He had for me was not sexual abuse or the rape; he wanted me to process my pain in order to receive his purpose and peace. He wanted to prove to me that anger, guilt and shame would weigh my delicate wings down. Consequently, now I have emerged as the butterfly, contradicting what my past hurts and disappointments were trying to process me to be. Now, I realize that accepting his unconditional love was the beautiful beginning of my hope and future. Before, I was a lost and damaged caterpillar, but restoration in the cocoon has made me a devoted wife, loving mother, mentor and a survivor of childhood sexual abuse.
Lisa Jones "What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls a butterfly." ~ Richard Bach~
Charlene Pickens
Jamaican Style Curry Chicken From a Southern girl who grew up in South Florida around mom, grandmothers, aunties and a grandfather having his own farming business; I have enjoyed many years of fresh vegetables and southern style soul food cooking. My family also had the traditional parties that included a lot of soul food. Growing up this way, I was one who wouldn't try too many other foods (i.e. Mexican, Chinese, Jamaican etc..), especially pots that didn't look to tasty to me. (The stomach said no!). (Smiling) But, of course, one day my story changed. One summer we were having a Family Reunion. My cousin-in-law, from Jamaica, was cooking Curry Chicken. After being asked numerous times to taste it, I finally took a bite. Well; afterwards, I put the fork down and grabbed a plate to fix me a meal. Now, I enjoy trying new recipes to cook at home. So, I have included the same recipe that I now follow that I received from my cousin . Don't eat too much, but do enjoy.
INGREDIENTS: 2 lbs. cut up pieces of chicken 3 med potatoes( peeled ,washed, and cubed) 2 tbsp of Curry Powder Blended spices 1 1/2 - 2 cups of water 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tbsp of Garlic Powder 1 tsp parsley 1 tsp thyme 1 med finely chopped onion
INSTRUCTIONS: Wash the chicken and season it with curry powder and blended spices. Pour the vegetable oil in the pot. Add the chicken and let it cook on medium heat while stirring it. Ensure it turns a little brown. Afterwards, pour the water in the pot and continue cooking the chicken. Add garlic powder, onions, parsley, thyme and potatoes. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 2 hours.
It‟s yummy.!!!
PARTNERS: If you‟ve noticed a partner that‟s been missing, please email Pastor Antonio Miranda with his/her information. Pastor Miranda will contact this partner. antonio.emerge@gmail.com
He Took It To The Cross Oh how can I ever explain How HE bore my sin and shame Yet still for me HE died That in Him I am satisfied.
By: Jennifer Cole
It was not an easy load My burdens on Him bestowed The actual pain and grief Beyond compare and belief. HE carried the cross eighty and two miles Preparing for those nails For each step that was taken Brought me closer to my redemption Thirty and nine stripes was what HE took For no sins of His own says the book With nail pierced hands and sword through His side It was then I realized that JESUS' love has no compromise. Unforgiveness, backbiting and malice Lying, stealing and disobedience Were all OUR sins that condemned Him HE took it to the cross and buried them. So by His stripes we are healed Yes! Jesus Christ Our Lord and Savior His purpose has been revealed With His abundant Love and Favor
Have you ever needed your car fixed or your home air conditioning unit serviced? Have you ever needed to speak to a lawyer or see a doctor? Are you an accountant, computer technician, or landscaper? “It's in the House" ministry can connect you to someone who provides these services. What makes "It's in the House" ministry so amazing is that the providers of these services are a group of Christian people. These individuals are willing to serve with honesty and integrity. "It's in the House" is asking CFM family to be part of this great ministry. How? If you are an accountant, lawyer, technician, mechanic, or have a trade, please sign up at the welcome center or drop your business card in the glass jar. We look forward to hearing from you and can't wait to share your skills and services with others.
April 2011
JR EMERGE We ARE the NOW Generation!
Teaching a child about God can result in a lifelong relationship between your child and our Father. In Proverbs 22:6, the Bible says, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Remember….children are great imitators; being ambassadors of
Here is what’s happening at JR Emerge……. The Exodus of Moses….. The story is from the Bible and from the movie the Ten Commandments. Each quarter the students take a test to see how much of the information they have retained. Below are some of the highlights and key points we are studying:
Our Weekly Series………
Moses: How did he come to be?
The parables of Jesus….
His family!
What Jesus’ parables reveal...
Who was the first Priest?
How many parables are there….
Who was the first Prophet?
Lesson 1: What is a parable
Knowing how to read and understand the Bible!
Lesson 2: How to read a parable
Lesson 3: The parable of the two (2)
Parents Corner……. Meetings are on the first Monday of each month at 6pm. They are held in the JR Emerge Building. Fusion Sunday is April 24, 2011 The following students will be Graduating from Emerge Next Generation to JR Emerge:
1.
Melechi Stephens
2.
T.J. Williams
3.
Sidney Hanna
Happy Birthday!!! JR Emerge students, All who have Birthdays in
January February March Our Praise & Worship
Praise elevates us into God’s presence and power! It is our duty as teachers and parents to teach Parents please take some time and review children how to praise and worship God and not the lesson materials with you child. merely lead the singing. At JR Emerge we are Do not forget...summer is approaching and teaching our children how to express their love and soon our students will be out of school. We thanksgiving to God from their hearts! The bible ask that you incorporate reading the bible says the high priest and scribes were indignant everyday with them. when the children shouted, “Hosanna to the Son Take some time to head of David.” Jesus asked if they had never read over to the Christian Book Store this summer. “Out of the mouth of babes….You have perfected praise.”
The Now Generation Mark T. Jones Jr. “EMJAY” Students’ Ministry Leader
In Emerge Student Oasis, the students are learning that they are not what‟s to come, but they are simply the NOW. Oftentimes, young people have a plan to first fulfill their desires and then later college, career and family; then finally receive Christ‟s salvation. In the book of Jeremiah the first chapter, God calls and commissions Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nations. “I am too young,” said Jeremiah. “Don‟t say that you are too young because you shall go to all I send you, and whatever I command is that what you will speak, responded God.” God doesn‟t look at age; He looks for a willing vessel and a heart that is loyal to Him. There are positions set in place that God has ordained for young people and they must realize it. In the last days I will pour out my Spirit on ALL flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions (Joel 2:28). This is being actualized now in the earth. God is pouring out His Spirit and it‟s time for the young people to take their place and seek the face and heart of God for their lives. Parents must recognize and allow their children to grow and become that which God has purposed and ordained for their children‟s lives. One of the ways that we raise our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, Ephesians 6:4, is by allowing them to have their own relationship with God. There are many parents who want their children to have a relationship with God through them. Meaning, based on your [the parent‟s] experience, that‟s how you train your children to engage God. Indeed, that is putting God in a box. Your children did not go through what you went through. They were uniquely gifted and crafted by God with their own purpose and calling. This is a new generation and God wants to do a new thing in the lives of your children, but you have to trust God. My encouragement for the parents is that you will encourage your children that they are the now and they do not have to wait until some later time to come to God. For God has a plan for them NOW.
Feature Series for this Month
Life in the Hedge In this dynamic series, Dr. Jones shares with all believers the life God intended them to live; hedged in and protected from all satanic devices.
The Lord has empowered the ministry to cultivate and mentor prophets into their destiny and to train them of their purpose to under gird Apostolic vision according to the Word of God. Revive! The breath of God breathes upon you. “You shall not die, but Live.”
Prophetess Michelle Guess Founder
Obey the Lord Your God By Prophetess-Elect Meshell LaVergne
God wants us to obey Him. It is mentioned in every book of the Bible. Just as children are required to obey their parents, we must obey our Heavenly Father. It does not matter how small or insignificant it may be. Allow Him to take you out of your comfort zone. Take a look at some in the bible - Abraham, Moses, Noah, Joshua, Esther, Daniel , Isaiah, Jeremiah, Solomon, David, Ezekiel, Jesus, Mary, Paul, and John - the one thing they had in common was their love of the Father. No matter what God asked them to do, no matter how much suffering, no matter how much persecution; they were obedient to God's word through faith. Because of the revelation of God's love for them; they returned the love through obedience, even if it meant severe persecution. God is looking today for this same type of obedience from us. God is a God of order and process. He is building the foundation in you step by step. Allow Him to pull out of you what is required to walk out your calling. Obey God and let Him reveal his plans to you for your life. Obey! Obey! Obey! God wants to bless you according to Deuteronomy 28, but He can‟t unless you are obedient. You are a special treasure to Him, thus He wants to reveal to you that which has been concealed. Obedience comes from the desire to follow Jesus no matter what happens or where it leads you. Don't let the spirit of intimidation take your focus off God‟s instructions for you. Obedience to the little things will begin to unlock the treasures in your heart. God says in 1 Samuel 15:22, “It is better to obey Him then to sacrifice..” Meditate on what God is asking you to do to be obedient.. It is not about your will, but the will of the Father, as Jesus said in the Garden of Gethsemane. Submit yourself to God's will and receive God‟s blessings. Obey the Lord. God promises will be fulfilled on its appointed day. You must be obedient to His word.
SPOTLIGHT Ms. Eva Johnson More than a single mom living in Tampa, Florida, Eva Johnson is a grandmother of three grandchildren who reside in Albany, New York. Ultimately, she is a woman who lives for God! Born in Harlem, New York, her family moved to Queens when she was 2 years old. She was raised in the Apostolic Church called “Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith” or COOLJC. They were very strict, very religious, and very traditional. After turning 19, she left the church and told her mom she would never return to church again, especially not that church. Many years later; after going completely into the world clubbing, partying, drinking, fornicating (at one point the doctors thought she had HIV, but tests proved negative) - she found herself desiring to return to church. Believing she could still “be in the world”, she went to a Baptist church. Yet, Eva knew in her heart that her mother's prayers were sustaining her through it all. Eva stated; “My defining moment came when my mom asked me if I thought I was saved and if I spoke in tongues.” With her mother speaking to her with the love of Jesus; Eva wept, knowing it was time to give her life to Christ. “It was like Jesus was speaking directly to me.” Her sister invited her to church; a deliverance ministry. When the preacher gave the altar call, he laid his hands on Eva. Immediately, she began to speak in tongues and dance all over the church until her jacket came off. Also, she lost her shoes, but didn't care. “God had me and from then on I never let Him go!” Eva testifies how being a believer became everything to her. God proved Himself by being everything she needed. For without Him, she would
have not been alive today. She didn‟t attend any church until Jesus put His desire in her heart because she refused to be spit or vomited out of God's mouth due to being lukewarm. (Read the book of Revelation). Her mom told her that the school wanted to place her in Special Ed because of her sickness. She also had a stutter/lisp so she couldn't pronounce words correctly. When she was 10 years old, she had constant nosebleeds. With her head over the toilet as the blood gushed out of her nose; her mother cried, prayed and said "Eva, you have to believe. Do you believe God can heal you?” Eva replied, "Yes, mommy." The blood trickle slowed down and stopped. From that day on, she never had a nose bleed like that again. Consequently, the doctors were amazed to see a person still alive with a 3.6 blood level (We are to have at least 11 -13). God carried Eva through that and more. (“The devil has been trying to take my blood, but he has no control over the Blood of Jesus that sustains me today.”). [This is just one of Eva‟s testimonies . She is currently writing a book on the many testimonies God has given her.] Eva has been a covenant partner at CFM for three years. She desired to join the partnership in December 2007, but was scheduled to go to Brooklyn, New York to assist her former church with a
choir concert. Finally; in February of 2008 after a series of mishaps, she attended for the first time and knew she belonged. Yet, at that time, she didn't follow the Holy Spirit's prompting to join that Sunday. So, all week she had to ask God's forgiveness for disobedience. She later joined the following Sunday.
to send the right person. No rush. I see myself just completely yielded to God, helping people grow in Christ and myself just getting as close to God as possible. “
Eva is currently the Department Administrative Coordinator at an Engineering firm. She is also trained as a Dental Assistant, and has an Early Eva responds, “I love that CFM is a complete min- Childhood Certification. istry; teaching, preaching, worship, dance, youth ministry, the vision, missions etc. I love the free“God is pretty much in every area of my life”, she dom God has given me to flow in the ministry He stated. “I know I need Him more and I know there has placed in me and also to grow into more and is more that I can do for Him. I am just in the Flow more of what God wants me to be. It is Awesome and the Dance with Him willing to do whatever He and all my friends from NY want to come here! wants for my life.” Article by Denise L. Griffith On the natural side, I would like to be married but to whom God chooses for me. I will wait on Him
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT .by Denise Griffith
I am no beauty expert, but I am a woman who understands when it is time Denise Leblanc for a break! Sometimes, we as women get so caught up in everyday stuff that we lose ourselves and our connections to our self image. A pedicure is a great way to let loose, relax and rediscover yourself. However, this treat does not have to be a solitary event.
Have a girlfriend or special “sistah” meet you at a spa or nail shop. Plan a “pedi-party” for you and a couple of gal pals. Trying a new shade of color can also add some excitement to this event and even lift your spirit. Hot pink, tangerine orange, or a French manicure are the hot trends for this summer! As Christian women, our appearance should be a compliment to our true beauty which comes from within (holiness)! (1 Chronicles 16:29)
Monday Night Manna
ACROSS
“Surviving Attempts of Spiritual Assassination”
1.
Perception cannot be _____________. 4. Perception management is an investment in ____________, but doesn’t consider character. 6. Jesus pursued His ________ path of transition. 8. Perception management causes an individual to perform to the ____________ of people. 10. Jezebel spirits thrive on fearful and errant ___________. 2. 3. 5. 7. 9. 10.
DOWN
Perception management perverts the purpose of headship and _____________. Perception management is based on _______. Perception management is the cousin to ______________. Kingdom administration is always assaulted by _________ spirits. Jesus always withdrew to one solitary place for one defining _________. Perception management causes an individual to perform to the ____________ of people. 10. Jezebel spirits thrive on fearful and errant ___________.
Food for Thought Several years ago, a movie entitled “Vantage Point” surfaced at the theatres. The story explored the assassination attempt of the American president through the eyes of eight different individuals. Each time the scenario unfolded from the beginning, a new vantage point or perspective was shown revealing additional details. Many times, our lives chronicle this movie. Some believers allow so many different viewpoints to penetrate their lives that God’s vantage point is edged out. Consequently, some believers use God as an afterthought; thus allowing other individuals to furnish additional details about and for their lives. Their lives remain fixated on these superfluous vantage points; while seeking prestige, reputation and notability. Somehow; believers have leaped into this movie scenario - with new scenes emerging each time a different perspective is given. The differing perspectives have emerged from prophets, family members, businesses, friends and sometimes even self. Each angle of some believers’ lives is being scrutinized and dissected with disastrous results. However; God’s vantage point for your life has not changed. His view/perspective is the only resolve for your life as a believer. He formed you in your mother’s womb and has “known” you before the foundation of
the world. Even through the situations and circumstances in your life; the Lord has been humW. J. Weems bling you, preparing you, maturing you — to conform you to the image and likeness of Christ Jesus. Hence, believers, I implore you to open your spiritual eyes! See beyond your natural habitat. See beyond “surviving”, working and “paying bills”. See beyond the house, the car, and the expectation of “millionflow”. See beyond just performing and being “busy for the Lord”. Allow Christ, the Anointed One, to TOTALLY erect Himself within you to the only position of Lordship. Allow Him to infiltrate your nostrils, your mind, your emotions and your will. Subsequently, you’ll begin to “see” from His vantage point. “…..seek
ye the kingdom of God.” “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.” “And this is life eternal, that they may know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, who thou hast sent.” “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” “…...love one another, as I have loved you.” For it’s only God’s vantage point that will ultimately complete your story for His glory.
Gail Boles
The
Previously; I lived a „less than‟ life, and experienced many unhealthy relationships. was date raped and abused; physically, emotionally & sexually. I was a woman who certainly didn‟t know what constituted abuse. Nor did I have any idea regarding empowerment and honor of myself. My personal journey was profound. Consequently, I left behind co-dependency, allowance of compromised boundaries and painful relationships for the love and life I truly desired. Today, so many women believe that unless they are being „hit‟ they are not being abused. Physical abuse is so much more. There are many signs of an abusive relationship. The most telling sign is fear of your partner. If you feel as if you have to walk on eggshells around your partner—constantly watching what you say and do in order to avoid a blowup—chances are your relationship is unhealthy and abusive. Other signs that you may be in an abusive relationship include a partner who belittles you or tries to control you, and feelings of self -loathing, helplessness, and desperation. To determine whether your relationship is abusive, answer the questions below. The more “yes” answers, the more likely it is that you‟re in an abusive relationship.
Total
Woman
Your Partner’s Violent Behavior or Threats – Does your partner: have a bad and unpredictable temper? hurt you, or threaten to hurt or kill you? threaten to take your children away or harm them? threaten to commit suicide if you leave? force you to have sex? destroy your belongings? Your Partner’s Belittling Behavior – Does your partner: humiliate or yell at you? criticize you and put you down? treat you so badly that you‟re embarrassed for your friends or family to see? ignore or put down your opinions or accomplishments? blame you for his own abusive behavior? see you as property or a sex object, rather than as a person? Your Partner’s Controlling Behavior – Does your partner: act excessively jealous and possessive? control where you go or what you do? keep you from seeing your friends or family? limit your access to money, the phone, or the car? constantly checks up on you? Listen, NO man is worth dying for; especially when he‟s the one killing you. If you‟re unclear about your identity and preferences, life and others will easily penetrate your flimsy sense of self and mold you into „what‟ or „who‟ they are. Surrounding yourself with people who value you is an important part of the healing process. Seek help to gain strength. It is vital that you remember what makes you a unique and valuable person. Be empowered to flourish.
Signs that you’re in an abusive relationship Your Inner Thoughts and Feelings – Do you: feel afraid of your partner much of the time? avoid certain topics out of fear of angering your partner? feel that you can‟t do anything right for your partner? believe that you deserve to be hurt or mistreated? “I came that you may have life and have it more wonder if you‟re the one who is crazy? abundantly." John 10:10 feel emotionally numb or helpless?
Pearls of Wisdom Son Screen Often time, we position ourselves around individuals and places that seem harmless; however, this exposes us to spiritual danger. If we are not discerning, these individuals and places may seem innocent and we may allow them to flow at will in our space and lives. So the question one may ask is what happens when we have opened doors subconsciously, giving Satan the opportunity to interfere. The Bible declares in Ephesians 6:11, Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Just like our natural bodies need protection from the sun, God protects us through His son Jesus Christ. According to 2Timothy 4:18; The Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. Jesus protects us from the unknown or unconscious even after we have opened a door in our life. For instance, if someone comes to your house and knocks on your door, the first thing one may ask is who it is, then make the decision if they are going to open the door. Indeed, some individuals donâ€&#x;t ask who it is and simply open the door; positioning themselves as an easy target. However, The Holy Spirit is like a screen door that protects us from individuals and unexpected dangers which may seem innocent in the natural, but have evil intentions. Since The Holy Spirit is like our screen door, He protects us even after we have opened a door in our life, through fornication, lying, jealousy, and other aspects of sin which open doors for the enemy to enter. Often times, one may subconsciously open the door for Satan through things one may allow for entertainment, certain environments, and even relationships. Although one may open the door for the enemy, The Holy Spirit stands in the gap protecting and interceding for us from the danger that lurks outside seeking to find its next victim. Through discernment, being sensitive to the Holy Spirit and renewing our mind by reading the Bible we can prevent the enemy from sneaking into our lives unconsciously or in disguise. Through the blood of Jesus Christ our Lord and savior, we can repent of our sins and be made new! Just like every aspect of our body must be protected by some mean, our spirit man must be protected as well. For instance, we apply sun screen to our bodies, to protect us from the sun rays; therefore, we must apply the blood of Jesus over our life to protect us from the enemy. One of the greatest things about the blood of Jesus is that we can apply the blood of Jesus over our families for their protection, forgiveness, cleansing, victory, and so much more. When we ask God to cover us with the blood of His Son, I believe the Lord constructs a hedge of protection around our life. Applying the blood of Jesus Christ is activated by faith in Jesus Christ. By faith we believe in the sacrifice that was already made by Christ through the blood that was shed when He died for all of our sins. Therefore, we must know and understand that God supplies, but we must first apply; through prayer and believing that itâ€&#x;s already finished through Jesus Christ, our Lord and savior. So where do you need to apply the blood?
This is the season to Manifest‌..
Our Vision Proverbs 29: 18 “Where there is no vision the people perish. Our vision is to teach the end-time church of the essence of kingdom life, and to communicate deep, spiritual truth in a simplified manner. The Center for Manifestation was released from the heart of God to be a refreshing force to the body of Christ. While the central theme and essence of this ministry is to prepare the way for the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, in part this purpose is accomplished by retraining the saints as to what their God-given roles and responsibilities in the church are. It is also the vision of this ministry to bring healing and deliverance to those who have been hindered from moving into position for the latter rains. This is the season for the manifestation of the sons of God!
3102 E. Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610, Ph: 813-241-6919, Fax: 813-217-5460