Upcoming Events-2012 Calendar Events
Annual Prayer Breakfast Memphis Hilton 932 Ridge Lake Blvd Jan. 28, 2012 $25.00 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Annual Servant Award
Holy Nation Church of Memphis 3333 Old Brownsville Rd Bartlett, TN 38134 May 26, 2012 $25.00 For more information please call (901) 308-4417 / (901) 949-3409
OPM-Women Empowerment Conference 2012 Holy Nation Church of Memphis 3333 Old Brownsville Rd Bartlett, TN 38134 Aug 24 & 25 2012 $25.00 (reg. fee)
For more information please call (901) 308-4417 / (901) 949-3409
departments Founder and Editorial Director Verna V. Nickelberry Editor-In-Chief India B. Oliver Art Director Rushun Wiseman Contributing Editors Marlena Beal Josie Hayslett Contributing Writers Vanderbilt Brabson Paris Ducker Rhonda Hurst Cheryl Robinson Paola Tennon Layout Designer Denardo Crawford Marketing Consultant Joyce Parkinson jpconnection.com (901) 907-8557 Photographer Kendall Elem Sales Director/ Memphis, TN Janet Chestnut salesmemphis@ ordinarypeoplemagazine.org Sales Director/ Frisco, TX Will Odom tndimension.net (214) 514-2926 Videographer Gloria Hare O.P. Magazine Mail 8890 Bristol Park Cir. #103 Bartlett, TN 38133 (901) 949-3409 http://ordinarypeoplemagazine.org ORDINARY PEOPLE MAGAZINE is a quarterly publication and is distributed in Memphis, TN; Knoxville, TN; Frisco, TX; Atlanta, GA; and Orlando, FL.
contents Winter 2012
16 19
10 6
ON THE COVER/ LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
7
Editor-in-Chief Faith on the Move
10
IN THE SPOTLIGHT OPM Advisory Board Members
16 FOR YOUR HEALTH
Where is your faith in God?
19 Gospel Music/Artist Vashawn Mitchell Tops Winners List
23 MIRACLES & BLESSINGS The Hole in My Heart
25 29 Inspirational Words Faith In Action
31 From WithIn...
25 Let The Lady Speak Check Yourself
27 CONSIDER THIS
One And Forty Nine
All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole or in part without the founder/editor’s consent is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions or views of the editor. The publication of any advertisement in the issue does not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s products or services by the publication. © 2012 Ordinary People Magazine
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On The Cover
Standing from left to right; Mr. Noah Washington Jr., Mr. Alonzo Thompson Sitting from left to right; Ms. Sherron Chestnut, Ms. Jamekia Ward, Ms. Christina Walton and Mrs. Tabitha Walker
Letters to the Editor “Thank you so much for such a wonderful magazine. I always read it from cover to cover. I really enjoy the Inspirational Words.”
I loved the pictures in the Miracles & Blessings article in the Fall 2011 issue. Please share more pictures of your travel.
Ms. Kay Brown Knoxville, TN
Barbara
The Spotlight “Praise, Pray, and Prayer” in the Fall 2011 issue were very different from your normal spotlight stories. I can say that I did enjoy reading the article. Keep bringing us different. Unknown
6 | Winter 2012
Editor-in-Chief
Faith on the Move As we embark upon a New Year, many will spend time trying to make good on New Year’s resolutions, while others will have already failed. If this year is like others, it will present many challenges and obstacles that can be exhausting emotionally and physically. However, knowing that God has never left or forsook us encourages one to be hopeful of things yet to come. It is our faith in Jesus Christ that brings us through and reminds us that through Him, all things are possible. This issue of Ordinary People focuses on faith. Hebrews 11:1 states, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (KJV). In For Your Health, Paola Tennen establishes the connection between faith and healing and encourages us to lock into our ultimate power source, Jesus Christ. In Consider This, Vanderbilt Brabson III, reminds us that peer pressure is a considerable influence for both adults and children. As believers we must tap into the power of God and use Him as our standard rather than looking for the answers in others. In Let The Lady Speak, Rhonda Hurst encourages us to change, to grow, and to modify our behaviors rather than focus on New Year resolutions. Not only does she provide encouragement; she outlines a process to overcome the challenges of change. In Inspirational Word, Paris Ducker tells us to put our Faith in Action. That faith requires activity, movement through praise, praying, and diligently seeking God. Christ is our rock, and our reliance on Him requires relationship. My friends, find a place where you can reserve quiet time with God daily. Open your heart to Him and trust that He will lead you, provide for you, and meet your needs. Have faith and watch God move in your life. Ask God to open your spiritual eyes to see His hand moving in your life today, tomorrow, and always. Remember, God wants the very best for you. You just have to have faith in Him.
In Him, India B. Oliver Editor-in-Chief
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In The Spotlight
10 | Winter 2012
OPM
Advisory Board Members
Sherron Chesnut
Alonzo Thompson
Tabitha Walker
Sherron Chestnut, a native of Memphis, TN who, worship, work, and fellowship at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church where she absorb the teachings of our Lord and Savior. She is employed by a group of neurologists who share her passion in caring for others. As a vested employee, Ms. Chestnut started an after hours service for the company as well as an exercise class for the employees. Ms. Chestnut say that she believe that because God gives her “Grace and Mercy� everyday it is her responsibility to be grateful and show mercy to others. Ms. Chestnut is also a self-employed phlebotomist and has volunteered in communications at Memphis in May for nearly ten years.
Mr. Thompson, an entrepreneur who has a vast amount of experience starting and operating his own business for the last 15 years. Which include a financial consulting company, deli, and janitorial establishment. He enjoys mentoring to young people through coaching and development. He served in the United States Navy for 22 years as Career Counselor, directing and advising recruits on their careers. Mr. Thompson has over 20 years experience with media communications to include public presentations, video editing and camera recording. He served as Chief Zone Supervisor for Recruiting affairs in Missouri, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Mr. Thompson has been married for 21 years (Franchesca Thompson) and he serves as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at his church.
Tabitha G. Walker, has worked for the
past two decades as a medical office as-
sistant for a variety of specialist. She has
covered areas in the front office, medical records, and medical billing. Her scope
of experience spans throughout the state of Tennessee; in areas of Nashville,
Chattanooga, and Memphis - where she currently resides; working with Internal
Medicine for both adults and in pediatric, Endocrinology, Dermatology, Nephrology, and currently Gastroenterology.
Tabitha is a United States Army veteran, having served during Desert Storm Desert Shield. She enjoys reading, movies, traveling, and trying new foods.
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Christina Walton
Jameike Ward
Noah Washington Jr.
Christina Breana Walton is a graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Medicine, Health, & Society. Her goal is to attend medical school to become a doctor (Obstetrician/ Gynecologist). Currently she is a flight attendant for Pinnacle Airlines, which is a regional carrier for Delta Airlines (Delta Connection). She is faithful member of Holy Nation Church of Memphis serving in areas such as the Youth Department (Youth Leader), College Ministry (Secretary), Music Department (Choir Member), Sunday School Department (Empowerment Hour), Hospitality Department, and the HNC Petals of Love Girls Camp (Advisory Board Member). Overall, she enjoys doing community service, traveling, reading, and writing.
Jameike Ward, a Human Resource Generalist with the University of Tennessee Medical Group. She is a graduate of Christian Brothers University (in Memphis, TN) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Currently she is pursuing a Master degree in Counseling Psychology, as she aspires to become a Licensed Practical Counselor.
Captain Noah Washington Jr., is a native
12 | Winter 2012
of Jackson, Mississippi. CPT Washington enlisted in the United States Army in 1993 and was commissioned through the Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning, Georgia in 2005. He has had the honor of serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom V and Operation Iraqi Freedom VII earning the Combat Action Badge and the covet Bronze Star Medal twice. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Park University and a Masters of Science in Human Resource Development from Indiana State University. CPT Washington is married and the father of three children
Word Search
THE BIBLE C E I J C R E A T E D Y
U K Y F I R M A M E N T
X Z J C R E A T U R E P
T O O P Y C Q C E F D W
S S E N K R A D R L O X
Y Q C L K U E U G O G R
Adam Created Creature Darkness Eden Eve
Y T K Z H V I L V R S J
U T H U E T M M N D I A
E I E G F F A M I L Y W
K I T U I K D J J O U V
I A L M H N A N N Q Y K
I J E E D E N E D Q R N
Family Firmament Fruitful God Lord Night
ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 13
For Your Health
God? Where is your faith in
by Paola Tennon RN, BSN, MBA/HCA, CCM
F
or centuries faith and spirituality have been
He is. We are also, secure in our belief that God sent His son,
associated with healing. II Corinthians 5:7
Jesus Christ, to take the punishment for our sins. Through His
tell us that “we walk by faith and not by
sacrificial life, shedding of blood, death and resurrection we are
sight. In Matthew 17:20 Jesus is recorded as
justified with God the Father. We are made right through our
saying: “Because of your unbelief, for verily
faith… (Romans 3:22-28). It is faith that ignites our belief in
I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain of
God and our spirituality is enhanced through prayer, meditation
mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain remove…and it
and supplication. This strengthens our faith and enables us to
shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” To
invite God into our lives.
summarize several definitions of faith is to say that: Faith is an unwavering or unquestionable belief in something or someone.
One might ask what does faith and spirituality have to do with
There is complete trust and confidence without evidence of
our health or what we may be going through? The answer is
proof.
simple, “Everything!” God is the provider of all things and
Spirituality deals with religious devotion, prayer, practices, beliefs, and duties. It plays a major role in the lives of people of faith. It is a spiritual lifestyle that incorporates powerful biblical principles. Our spirituality and religious beliefs are based on our trust and faith in God and are rooted in God’s Word. Hebrews 11:6 tells us that “without faith, it is impossible to please God…for he that cometh to God must believe that
16 | Winter 2012
represents our power source. Psalm 147:5 states “Great is our
seen in the positive effects related to the promotion of health,
Lord and of great power: His understanding is infinite.” The
physical and psychological wellness and improved outcomes.
transforming power of God is what is needed to change our
A 2005 article entitled “Is there a connection between faith
mindsets, to increase our faith and our belief in that which we
and health?” References the role faith plays in prevention
cannot see. The entire chapter of Hebrews 11 is a testament as
and recovery from illness. A review of the accumulated data
to the power of faith in God.
from over a 30-year period included many stories of healing. Analysis of the data was placed in three categories:
Spirituality, faith and healing are three concepts that are
1. Reversal or complete healing from disease; 2. Delay in the
intertwined and faith unlocks the door to spiritual health and
progression of illnesses such as Cancer and heart disease; and
wellness. The faithful have long believed in this connection.
3. For those not completely cured data showed an increase in
There are multiple references given in the Holy Bible.
coping with illness through prayer and other spiritual practices. In this study, we can see
Examples include: A Canaanite woman (Matt. 15:22-28); the leper (Luke 17:11-19); the woman with the issue of blood (Luke 43-48), the blind man (Mark 10:46-52) are only a few. Just as physical, mental and emotional health are important to our overall well being; so too is spirituality or
“The physical benefits associated with faith and healing are seen in the positive effects related to the promotion of health, physical and psychological wellness and improved outcomes.”
what would be considered positive outcomes. However, we must remain realistic and understand that everyone will not have these outcomes. Instead, some will have to endure their trials in pain and anguish while others will transition into death. Nonetheless, we should remember that not only
spiritual health. It has long
does simple faith benefit our
been said that humanity is
health by leading to thoughts
inclusive of body, mind and spirit or soul. Furthermore, though
of hope, optimism and positive expectations as stated by Dr.
there is much controversy, many continue to believe there is
Jeff Levin in his book “God, Faith and Health.” Faith also
a spirituality/religion and health connection. Many studies
helps to provide an inner peace and assurance that is needed
have been conducted with this connection in mine. They have
in whatever circumstance we may face and regardless of the
shown that if there is an imbalance in one of these elements, the
outcome. In the book, “The Cancer Survival Guide: Practical
health of the others seems to be impacted. Additionally, a study
Help, Spiritual Hope”; the author coined these words: “Even
presented by the American Cancer Society showed that faith
when you hit bottom you still have a rock to stand on! That
can reduce stress, loneliness, pain and anxiety.
rock-The Lord God- is your power source!” How profound and
Clinical trials are also being conducted by the National Institute
it holds true.
on Health Clinical Center. They are related to Psycho-SocialSpiritual Healing in connection with chronic or life-threatening
Pointers that will help during times of trial:
illness. Although the topic of faith and healing remains
1. Empower yourself with knowledge regarding your specific
debatable, there is evidence in the hundreds of stories of healing
illness or circumstance.
and personal testimonies, which are given every day. “And the
2. Change the way you think about things; be realistic about
prayer of faith shall save the sick; and the Lord shall raise him
your situation.
up…” James 5:15
3. Seek counseling as needed to help you deal with your transition or loss.
The physical benefits associated with faith, and healing are
4. Embrace the transition: recognize your strengths and ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 17
understand your limitations.
increased endorphin (a chemical in the brain) that promotes a
5. Prioritize and set achievable goals.
sense of well being.
6. Accept assistance graciously.
5. Get the proper amount of sleep. (7-8 hours daily
7. Delegate difficult task when possible.
uninterrupted if possible). 6. Maintain a positive attitude. Take time out to laugh. This
Helpful strategies for improving your health:
actually reduces stress and promotes healing. Romans 5:1-4.
(Increase wellness through diet, exercise, rest and stress
7. Think healthy thoughts. Worry only causes stress and brings
reduction.)
about uncertainty and fear.
1. Maintain timely visits with your healthcare practitioners as
8. Maintain a regular prayer life and take refuge in scripture.
directed.
Remember: “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity,
2. Eat healthy. This helps maintain and strengthen your Immune
but of power, love and self discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7
System. 3. Stay hydrated. Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily. 4. Exercise and maintain a healthy weight as directed by your healthcare practitioners. Research has shown that exercise helps decrease depression, increases flexibility, tones muscles,
References Agne, M. & Guralnik, D. (2000). Webster’s New World College Dictionary, Fourth Edition (pp 510, 1382). Foster City, CA: IDG Books Worldwide, Inc. Colbert, D. (1999). The Bible cure for depression and anxiety, Lake Mary, FL., Siloam Press Publishing Company. Colbert, D. (1999). The Bible cure for cancer, Lake Mary, FL., Siloam Press Publishing Co. Johnson, J. and McGee, M.G. (1998). How different religions view death and afterlife second edition, Philadelphia, PA. The Charles Press, Publishers Seifter, J. and Seifter, B. (2010). After the diagnosis: Transcending chronic illness,New York, NY, Simon and Schuster Inc. Strom, K. M. (2002). The cancer survival guide: Practical help, spiritual hope, Kansas City, MO, Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City. Spirituality and your health-Understanding the connection, Retrieved January 1, 2012 from www.faithandfitness.net Annals of internal medicine: Faith and healing excerpt, Retrieved December 27, 2011 from http://annals.org/search?fulltext=faith+and+healing&subm it=yes&x=15&y=12 Is there a connection between faith and healing? Retrieved December 29, 2011 from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/release/27202.php
18 | Winter 2012
Measuring your spiritual fitness, Retrieved December 29, 2011 from http://www.faithandfitness.net/node/132? Spirituality and health, Retrieved December 29, 2011 from http:// familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/emotionalwellbeing/mental-health/... Spirituality and medical practice: Using the hope question as a practical tool for spiritual assessment by G. Anandarajah and E. Hight (American Family Physician January 2001) retrieved December 26, 2011 from http://www.aafp.org/afp/20010101/81. html
Resources Association of Cancer Online Resources www.medinfo.org American Cancer Society www.cancer.org National Library of Medicine www.nim.nih.gov National Cancer Institute www.cancer.gov Medline www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed
Gospel Music/Artists
VASHAWN MITCHELL TOPS WINNERS LIST AT 27th ANNUAL STELLAR GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS Rising Gospel Superstar Vashawn Mitchell Earns Six Awards, Including Artist of the Year; Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Kim Burrell, The Rance Allen Group and Smokie Norful Also Score Multiple Wins
NASHVILLE, TN (January 16, 2011) - Rising Gospel music superstar Vashawn Mitchell topped the list of winners during the 27th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards announced Saturday night during the show’s taping at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry House Theater. Mitchell took home six awards, including Artist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Contemporary Male of the Year and Praise and Worship CD of the Year for his 2011 album, “Triumphant.” “I am grateful to stand here,” a gracious Mitchell said, also acknowledging other artists in the category, his family, label and social media fans. “I’ve been coming to the Stellar Awards a long time and I’m glad I waited my turn.” Hosted by the legendary Dorinda Clark Cole and Marvin Sapp, ten awards were presented over the course of the two-hour Stellar Awards show, with 28 additional awards announced during pre-show ceremonies on Friday and Saturday. Winners were selected by online voters. From the start, the evening was catapulted to a heart-pumping level of praise as Kirk Franklin took the stage. In a productionpacked opening number, Franklin performed a combination of his latest hits, including “Smile,” which was awarded Song of the Year during the show. Franklin also took home three additional honors, including CD of the Year, Producer of the Year and Contemporary CD of the Year. Franklin dedicated his awards to his team, pulling them up on stage to share the moment during his acceptance for CD of the Year and later stunned the crowd when he shared his award for Song of the Year with fellow nominee Darius Polk who penned Vashawn Mitchell’s “Nobody Greater.” “Because God has been so kind to me.....He’s given me more
than I deserve or could ever earn,” said Franklin. “I want to be a good Christian and I know to do that, I have to encourage others. That song “Nobody Greater” has ministered to me so deeply. If you don’t mind, I would be honored to share this award with [Darius Polk] because that song is incredible.” Other top winners of the evening included Mary Mary, Kim Burrell, Smokie Norful and The Rance Allen Group who were honored with two trophies each. The New Artist of the Year award was presented to Y’anna Crawley who graciously thanked God for the opportunity to perform and use her gifts for his glory, as well as the fans for listening to her music. The show was filled with stirring performances, including a collaborative medley of “Sweeter” by Kim Burrell; Jessica Reedy brought the audience to their feet with a rendition of “Put It on the Altar;” Le’Andria Johnson masterfully sang “Jesus;” and Martha Munizzi delighted the crowd with the spirited praise song, “Excellent.” Other big performers included William McDowell, whose rendition of “I Give Myself Away”
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transformed the Grand Old Opry House into a spirit-filled sanctuary, with the visibly moved crowd joined together in worship. A high-energy Hip Hop collaboration by Canton Jones, LeCrae and Da’T.R.U.T.H. culminated in a soulful rendition of “Awesome God.” Fred Hammond, Earnest Pugh, Richard Smallwood & Vision, James Fortune & Fiya, Ricky Dillard & New G all delivered powerhouse performances to the delight of the full-to-capacity crowd.
top our previous 25th Anniversary show, but we did. Our 27th Annual Show was in fact, our best ever from start to finish.”
The show also recognized the great accomplishments of some of Gospel’s brightest stars. John P. Kee received the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award for his accomplishments over a career that spans three decades and was serenaded by Isaac Carree, Sheila Lakin, Lowell Pye and Zacardi Cortez. Dorothy Norwood, dubbed “The World’s Greatest Gospel Story Teller,” received the Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award, presented by the veteran show host. Vy Higgensen, the first woman to host a morning show on New York radio as well as produce a faith-based musical on Broadway, received the Thomas A. Dorsey Most Notable Achievement Award for her work with the “Gospel for Teens” program.
AT&T ARTIST OF THE YEAR VASHAWN MITCHELL, TRIUMPHANT, EMI GOSPEL
The annual praise-raising celebration began with star-studded red carpet arrivals featuring luminaries from Gospel, television, film and politics, such as Tina Campbell (from Mary Mary), Teddy Campbell, Ernest Pugh, James Fortune, Vashawn Mitchell, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Isaac Caree, James Fortune, Shirley Murdock, Dr. Bobby Jones, Dorothy Norwood, Kurt Carr, Richard Smallwood, Dottie Peoples, Kim Fields, Regina Bell, Martha Munizzi, Trin-I-Tee 5:7, Wess Morgan, LeCrae, Canton Jones, Jessica Reedy, Le’Andria and others. The 27th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will air in nationwide syndication from January 21, 2012 to February 26, 2012 and premiere on GMC Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 8 p.m. EST.
The Stellar Awards’ official title sponsor is AT&T; American Airlines is the official airline of the Stellar Awards.
The 2012 Award Winners are:
SONG OF THE YEAR KIRK FRANKLIN, I SMILE - HELLO FEAR, VERITY GOSPEL MUSIC GROUP MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR VASHAWN MITCHELL, TRIUMPHANT, EMI GOSPEL ALBERTINA WALKER FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR KIM BURRELL, THE LOVE ALBUM, SHANACHIE ENTERTAINMENT GROUP/DUO OF THE YEAR MARY MARY, SOMETHING BIG, COLUMBIA RECORDS/ MY BLOCK RECORDS NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR Y’ANNA CRAWLEY, THE PROMISE, ID MUSIC GROUP/ UNIVERSAL/FONTANA DISTRIBUTION CD OF THE YEAR KIRK FRANKLIN, HELLO FEAR, VERITY GOSPEL MUSIC GROUP
Don Jackson, CEO and Executive Producer of the show said, “Our 27th special was by far our most diverse program to date, with performances that spanned the entire spectrum of Gospel music including Hip Hop, Rap, Contemporary, Praise & Worship, and Traditional. I never thought we could
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CHOIR OF THE YEAR RICKY DILLARD & NEW G, KEEP LIVING, LIGHT RECORDS/ENTERTAINMENT ONE
TRADITIONAL CD OF THE YEAR SMOKIE NORFUL, HOW I GOT OVER: SONGS THAT CARRIED US, TREMYLES MUSIC/EMI GOSPEL
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR KIRK FRANKLIN, HELLO FEAR, VERITY GOSPEL MUSIC GROUP
URBAN/INSPIRATIONAL SINGLE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR VASHAWN MITCHELL, NOBODY GREATER TRIUMPHANT, EMI GOSPEL
CONTEMPORARY GROUP/DUO OF THE YEAR MARY MARY, SOMETHING BIG, COLUMBIA RECORDS/ MY BLOCK RECORDS TRADITIONAL GROUP/DUO OF THE YEAR THE RANCE ALLEN GROUP, THE LIVE EXPERIENCE II, TYSCOT MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT CONTEMPORARY MALE OF THE YEAR VASHAWN MITCHELL, TRIUMPHANT, EMI GOSPEL TRADITIONAL MALE OF THE YEAR SMOKIE NORFUL, HOW I GOT OVER: SONGS THAT CARRIED US, TREMYLES MUSIC/EMI GOSPEL CONTEMPORARY FEMALE OF THE YEAR KIM BURRELL, THE LOVE ALBUM, SHANACHIE ENTERTAINMENT TRADITIONAL FEMALE OF THE YEAR BEVERLY CRAWFORD, LIVE FROM LOS ANGELES VOL. 2, JDI RECORDS CONTEMPORARY CD OF THE YEAR KIRK FRANKLIN, HELLO FEAR, VERITY GOSPEL MUSIC GROUP
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR - SHORT FORMAT VASHAWN MITCHELL, NOBODY GREATER TRIUMPHANT, EMI GOSPEL MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR - LONG FORMAT DEITRICK HADDON, CHURCH ON THE MOON, VERITY GOSPEL MUSIC GROUP TRADITIONAL CHOIR OF THE YEAR MISSISSIPPI MASS CHOIR, ...THEN SINGS MY SOUL, MALACO CONTEMPORARY CHOIR OF THE YEAR SHEKINAH GLORY MINISTRY, REFRESHED BY FIRE, KINGDOM RECORDS, INC. INSTRUMENTAL GOSPEL CD OF THE YEAR MOSES TYSON, JR., MUSIC REMASTERED & SACRED ORGAN, TYMO RECORDS SPECIAL EVENT CD OF THE YEAR BISHOP PAUL S. MORTON, BISHOP MORTON CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF MUSIC, LIGHT RECORDS/ ENTERTAINMENT ONE RAP HIP HOP GOSPEL CD OF THE YEAR LECRAE, REHAB: THE OVERDOSE, REACH RECORDS CHILDRENS PROJECT OF THE YEAR PURE N HEART, TEEN PURE IN HEART LIVE, MUSIC2CHANGEU
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QUARTET OF THE YEAR THE RANCE ALLEN GROUP, THE LIVE EXPERIENCE II, TYSCOT MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING OF THE YEAR MARTHA MUNIZZI, MAKE IT LOUD!, EPIC MUSIC PRAISE AND WORSHIP CD OF THE YEAR VASHAWN MITCHELL, TRIUMPHANT, EMI GOSPEL SPOKEN WORD CD RECORDING OF THE YEAR SELAH, LOOK AT YOU LOVING ME, PAUSE AND THINK MINISTRIES GOSPEL RADIO OF THE YEAR MAJOR MARKET (3 M AND ABOVE) KJLH - 102.3 FM, LOS ANGELES, CA LARGE MARKET (1 M - 3 M) WHAL-95.7 FM/1460 AM, MEMPHIS, TN MEDIUM MARKET (500,000 - 1 M) WLOU - 1350 AM, LOUISVILLE, KY SMALL MARKET (UNDER 500,000) KOKA - 980 AM, SHREVEPORT, LA INTERNET RADIO STATION GOSPELSYNERGY.COM/SYNERGY1RADIO.COM, CHICAGO, IL GOSPEL ANNOUNCER JOHN HANNAH, WGRB - 1390 AM, CHICAGO, IL The FrontPage Firm Tosha Whitten-Griggs / tosha@thefrontpagefirm.com Prudence Bailey / prudence@thefrontpagefirm.com (213) 351-0042 (Photo Credit: Moses Robinson / Courtesy of Central City Productions & The FrontPage Firm)
22 | Winter 2012
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Miracles and Blessings
“The Hole in My Heart” – The Cassie Young Story
This is a true life story of Miracles and Blessing; of a fourteen year old abused wife and mother whose child was abducted by his own father. Mrs. Young tells about her faith in God and knowing with God all things are possible. “I will tell the world of God’s blessings in my life. After you read a little about my story you will see God’s grace all around me. Through all the turmoil in my life one can truly see the Lord upon me. To know that what is impossible for man is possible with God. Knowing when you are at your wit’s end there is Jesus standing by.”----Mrs. Cassie Young In 1966 at the age of fourteen, I met and married a man twice my age. Not listening to my mother’s advice almost cost me my life. You might say that I was an ugly duckling at the time and this man showed me all of the attention I thought I needed and wanted. In the beginning everything was great but all at once I was introduced to beatings, rapes, kicks, and even being urinated on, all in the name of “I love you”. Everything in the word of abuse had been done to me: black eyes, burst ear drums, broken arms, and much more. I felt like a caged animal with no way out. I had blamed God for allowing this man to hurt me so bad. Yes, I had the nerve to do that. I thank God for Jesus because he picked my prayers up and took them to the Father on my behalf. Praise God! Bruises became a part of my life. There were daily beatings. Why? There was no reason, he didn’t need one. I know now that God was not the blame. If only I had listened to my mother and God, but I just needed to find out for myself that this wasn’t what I wanted or needed. I had walked away from my mother’s teaching and had put God
on the back burner like some of us still do. Praise be to God, He doesn’t give us what we deserve. His grace and mercy keeps us day by day. We must go through some things in order to get to where God wants us to be. All the abuse and pain was for God to get the glory when he brought me out. You can pray, praise, and shout your way out. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and that light is Jesus. The kicks, the stomps, there was still even worse things to come. I had told my mother I couldn’t even pray anymore because God didn’t hear me. My mother said, “Sister just keep praying, God hears all prayers of his children.” Then it happened! My son at the age of seven months was ripped from my arms and it would be over 38 years before I would see him again. He was even told I had died at his birth. Oh, but my God, he found me! My God, my God! The devil meant it for bad but my God flipped the script. Impossible for man -- but God all things are possible. ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 23
I am a blessed kept woman, kept by the power of God. It was over 38 years to man but in God’s eye sight it wasn’t even a day. Because with God a day is a like a thousand years and a thousand years is like a day. For our time is not the Lord’s time. Bless His holy name. Look at what God had done. He leaded my son back to me. He told me, “Mom, even though I was told all my life that you were dead I had felt like you just weren’t dead.’ There was a “Hole in My Heart”, but God has mended it. Thank you Jesus, for my miracles and my blessings. God is still in the miracle and blessing business. Just pray a little while longer don’t give up on God He will never give up on you. I am a living witness. I know it was God’s hand on my life the day my son was taken from me. I felt his little legs slip out of my hands. I asked God to help me and that is just what he did. He gave me the strength to endure the years without my son. The God I serve, He is an on time God. He had never left me alone. There had been times in my life that I couldn’t feel His presence, but He was there all the time. Prayer is the key, and faith unlocks the door. The Bible says man should always pray. Prayer is a gift from God; we can talk to him through our prayers. What a blessing! Just to believe that God is, is not enough. God’s word to us states, “As you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord, then you are saved.” The truth is that I disobeyed my mother when she had told me this man was too old for me and I didn’t know what I was doing. Was she ever right! If I had listened I wouldn’t have been beat and stabbed; well not at the age of fourteen anyway. But I thank God he didn’t turn his back on me. I am so thankful that I did have a relationship with God because His love for me and you is real and pure. In 2007 I founded and started Under His Wings Ministry to let victims know I am somebody in Christ. A nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching God’s word and healing from domestic violence. I am a survivor! Thank you Jesus.
24 | Winter 2012
And every victim can be through Christ Jesus. Jesus said, “I came that you may have life more abundantly. Forgiving is a big part in your healing we must forgive in order for our Father in heaven to forgive us. When I think of all the years without my son, I know true miracles and blessings from my Lord are real. I didn’t lose my mind, praise God, He kept me sane and when I could no longer stand the pain He came and stood right beside me and held me and told me I was his own and He loved me. No weapon formed against me shall proper. He kept me moving by this the Lord is my life whom shall I fear? Psalm 30:5b “Weeping endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning.” As always I live by this Motto, Matthew 19:26, “But Jesus beheld them and said unto them, with man this is impossible but with God all things are possible.” (KJV)
Let The Lady Speak
new ear
new ou by Rhonda B. Hurst
With the New Year ahead of you, it is the perfect time to start
we should simply make New Year Modifications. Webster’s
building a better you. We often get caught up in gift-giving
dictionary defines the term “modification” as a slight change or
for our loved ones. We help the less fortunate during the
alteration made to improve something or make it more suitable.
holiday season. We even exhaust our efforts and our finances
Therefore, instead of making resolutions that we never intend
in an attempt to ensure that our co-workers and professional
to keep, we should simply start making simple alterations to our
colleagues know just how much we appreciate them. What
lifestyles that will help us be better and live well in 2012.
about you? The New Year is the perfect time for you to make yourself a priority in your life. You owe yourself a better you.
I am confident that making New Year Resolutions is not the real problem. The real issue is the challenge of change. To lose
Have you ever noticed how every year automobile manufacturer
weight requires a change. To save money requires a change.
like Chevrolet, Ford, Buick, Chrysler and Cadillac make
To build better relationships requires a change. To be a
modifications to their vehicles? It seems like our automobiles
better parent requires
keep getting better and better. Whether it is a slight change to the body style or improvements to the performance features, today’s automobile manufacturers are making the necessary modifications to make their cars, trucks and SUVs more appealing in every way. This should be the same standard for us as today’s Christians. Each year we should pause and make an assessment of what will make us and our lives better. We should be open to making personal modifications that will help make us more appealing to God. Have you ever wondered why we bother to make New Year Resolutions? We never keep them! They sound really good in January and February but usually by March; our New Year Resolutions have literally “marched” right out of our minds. I have found a unique way to save us some drama and disappointment. Instead of making New Year Resolutions, ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 25
a change. To become physically fit requires a change. To
you reach this goal. Think about it, the more rigid or extreme
develop a closer walk with God requires us to change. We want
the goal is, the less likely it will be that attractive or attainable.
to be better, but many of us cannot overcome the challenge of
Setting practical goals and giving yourself the adequate time to
change.
work on these goals will determine your success.
This brings me to some great questions. How do we get past
4
the challenge of change and start making lifestyle alterations to
MAKE THE COMMITMENT AND MONITOR THE PROGRESS…
become better? Can we really change and break old habits that
Write the vision and make it plain! Keep a journal of what you
we have had for so many years? It is really quite simple if you
are trying to accomplish, the goals you are trying to reach, and
take the following steps.
the lifestyle changes that you need to make. Whether it is your
1
health, finances, relationships, education, career or developing DECIDE WHAT YOU NEED TO IMPROVE…
a closer relationship with God, we must be willing to make the
Notice the words “need to improve.” Ask yourself, is this an
commitment and monitor our progress. In writing our goals
improvement that I WANT to make or one that I NEED to
down, we are better able to keep up with our scheduled tasks
make. It is easier to find motivation to do something that you
for each accomplishment. It also helps us to remember what
really need to do than something you just want to do. Sit down
tasks need to be done and allows us to check them off as we
where you can be alone and undisturbed, and make a list of all
complete them. Overall, monitoring our goals will help provide
the things about you, and your life that you need to improve and
us direction and keep us focused not only on our goals but on
be specific. Then write down what you need to do or steps you
the big picture.
need to take to make the necessary improvements.
2
Remember that making resolutions is not enough. It is time DEVELOP SELF CONFIDENCE…
for us to make modifications to resolve the problem areas in
Self-confidence is extremely important in almost every
our lives. Perhaps you made resolutions in the past but did not
aspect of our lives. People who lack self-confidence can
follow them through. Perhaps you were not serious enough;
find it difficult to become successful in life, in marriage, in
your desire was not strong enough, or you were simply not
relationships, in parenting and even in their careers no matter
committed enough. The good news is that this is a New Year
how hard they try. Achieving goals, improving your life and
which gives us a new opportunity to change and improve our
finding true happiness is almost impossible to do when you do
everyday living.
not believe in yourself. There will be times when you get up in the morning, and things aren’t the way you had hoped they
The secrets to building a better you and getting to a new level of
would be. There will be other times when people disappoint
new living is to simply follow a plan, keep up your enthusiasm
you and let you down. However, that is when you have to tell
and don’t give in when confronting difficulties and obstacles.
yourself that things will get better and will work out for your
Believe in yourself and have faith that you can accomplish the
good. Those are the times when you must remind yourself
goals you set for yourself. Make a plan for what you want to
to trust your own judgments and opinions, to keep your life
achieve and stick to it. You might not always end up exactly
focused on believing in yourself, and all that you are capable of.
where you thought you would, but you’ll be better for the
People can give you encouragement, but it’s up to you to have
journey.
self-confidence that you can accomplish whatever you desire to accomplish.
3
SET REALISTIC GOALS…
When we set goals that are not practical, we set ourselves up for failure and disappointment every time. Losing 30 lbs in thirty days is impossible when you are not willing to change your eating habits or establish an exercise plan that can help
26 | Winter 2012
Consider This
Forty Nine One And
A
group of forty-nine students were secretly asked by a professor to take part in an experiment. The professor drew and labeled two chalk lines on the board. As part of the experiment, he instructed the fortynine students to all agree that the line labeled as “A” was the longer of the two lines when asked, although it was obvious to everyone present that line “B” was at least four or five inches longer. Once the students understood these simple instructions, they were dismissed and instructed to return at a designated time. The students later reconvened in the classroom at the appointed time; however, this time they were joined by a student who was not aware of the professor’s experiment and previous briefing. The professor directed the students’ attention to the chalk board and instructed them to raise their hands when he pointed to the longer of the two lines already drawn in chalk on the board. When the professor pointed to the shorter line labeled “A”, all
by Vanderbilt Brabson III
forty-nine of the students quickly raised their hand in agreement that this was the longer of the two lines. The unsuspecting student looked all around the classroom and was utterly amazed to see all hands up, except his; agreeing line “A” was the longer line. Unwilling to be different, the student slowly slipped his hand up in the air. Most of us dismiss “peer pressuritis” as a disease, which afflicts only the young. However, this malady is no respecter of age or person, striking both young and old, Christian and non-Christian alike. For the Christian, succumbing to peer pressure is merely symptomatic of a more grave condition—misplaced priorities. When our priorities become misplaced, the first thing that suffers is our relationship with God. And when our relationship with God suffers, the power and effectiveness of our ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 27
Christian witness suffer as well. Most of us would quickly argue, “Wait just a minute, I would never have raised my hand like that student did in the classroom with forty-nine other students. Well, let’s look at this in a little different way. When you and I laugh aloud at those really crude, inappropriate jokes told by nonbelieving coworkers, classmates, and friends, are we not raising our hand? When we intentionally ostracize someone because a friend, family member, or associate of ours dislikes that particular person, are we not raising our hand? When we engage in activities on our job or at school, which we know violate Christian principles just to be considered a team player, are we not raising our hand? When we overspend, trying desperately to keep up with the Jones, are we not raising our hand? It’s been said, “Any old dead fish can flow downstream.” It takes a live fish to swim upstream against the current. Likewise, it takes a Christian with the right priorities to stand and march against the current tide of popular opinion and peer pressure. The psalmist declared, Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly; nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scournful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law doth he meditate day and night (Psalm 1:1-2). The psalmist recognizes our unsaved friends and associates can have a profound effect on our lives. However, he points out God’s blessings are promised to believers who are not distracted by such associations. Instead, the blessed believer delights him- and herself in studying and meditating upon the scriptures to glean from them daily wisdom and insight for living. The psalmist goes on to say, And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper (Psalm 1:3). As believers, nowhere in scripture are we commanded to avoid associations with nonbelievers. There is no better way to witness to someone than through association. However, believers cannot afford to become distracted and influenced
28 | Winter 2012
by such associations. To prevent this from happening, we are encouraged by the scriptures to continually read and internalize God’s word. The blessing promised when we do this is our lives will be spiritually fruitful and prosperous (Galatians 5:22-23), and God will become first in our hearts and lives (Matthew 6:33). What about you? Have you succumbed to peer pressure? Are your associations with nonbelievers overly influencing you? Do you want—do you need God’s help in getting your priorities straight? If this is true, tell Him so. Please pray the following: Dear Heavenly Father, I admit I have not been seeking first Your kingdom and Your righteousness as Jesus said we should. I have allowed myself to become distracted by my associations and the lures of this world, and I am so very sorry. Please forgive me and cleanse me. Touch my heart right now and please be first in my heart and life. Give me wisdom and power for each day to obey You and to walk before You with an upright heart. I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen. “Character is always lost when a high ideal is sacrificed on the altar of conformity and popularity.” Charles Spurgeon. Spurgeon was a British Reformed Baptist pastor who still remains highly influential among Reformed Christians of different denominations. © December 2011 Vanderbilt Brabson III, Author ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Inspirational Words
Faith In Action by Paris Ducker
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. HEBREWS 11:1 (NIV)
ordinarypeoplemagazine.org | 29
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance
situation I am in “came to pass” and yours will too!
about what we do not see. HEBREWS 11:1 (NIV) God made us a promise that is pure as silver refined seven times Faith is an action word. We cannot sit still and wait for our
that He would deliver His people, (us). How long Lord can
promises to come to pass. Faith requires activity, movement
be a question regarding our lives, cycles, situations, issues of
through praise, praying and diligently seeking God. It is
the heart and spiritual stagnation. Even when we can (in our
through faith, perseverance and confidence that we will receive
carnal minds) justify to the Lord “I have been in this situation
our promises, “...do not become sluggish, but imitate those who
too long – How Long Lord?” We must gird our spiritual loins,
through faith and perseverance inherit the promises.” Hebrews
dig deep for spiritual strength and follow the instructions of the
6:12 (NKJV)
scriptures provided above.
How many times have we taken a look at the state of our lives?
Wrestling with dark thoughts:
There are times when it seems as if everything is spiraling down around us. It is easy to cry out to God like David “Help
Speak God’s Word; Proclaim Victory over Your Plight.
O Lord” (Psalms 13). We can identify with that everything that David spoke about then because it is happening now. However,
Sorrow in your heart:
in the midst of all the bad news, forecasts, the downturn of the
economy, downsizing God gives us the same promise He gave
Rejoice in the Lord Always – Again I Say Rejoice.
David way back then; He would NOW arise, protect us from those that malign us.
Worrying whether the enemy will gain victory after all:
Someone once said, “Don’t doubt in the dark what God has
Know That Your Redeemer Lives!
shown you in the light” When it seems as if you can’t see your way out; this is when you press in with your faith. The
REMEMBER: No Weapon Formed Against You Can Prosper.
word tells us that without faith, it is impossible to please God. Romans 12:3 tells us God has dealt to every man the measure of
Foes Rejoicing over Your Fall:
faith. The disciples asked Jesus one day to increase their faith. In Luke 17:6 Jesus responded by saying, “If you have faith as
Stand Upright, Walk Upright, March to Your Victory.
a grain of mustard seed, you might say unto this sycamore tree. Be you plucked up by the root, and be you planted in the sea;
And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue;
and it should obey you.”
and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to
It is time to be transparent, I truly identified with David in
godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
Psalms 13. Very recently “Help O Lord” was my cry to the
— 2 Peter 1:5-7 (KJV)
Lord also. My faith barometer was barely visible. I wasn’t sure how I would come out of this severe situation, and I questioned
Let’s continue and for some of us begin to trust in God’s
every decision, change, move, and relationship attack. Instead
unfailing, unconditional, everlasting love! He has been good
of proclaiming my faith in God and his redeeming power,
to me and I know He has been good to you! And because He
I focused on my situation. That did me no good and I had
doesn’t change, keeps His word,
to actively exercise my faith by proclaiming victory in my
sings over us when we can’t sing over
situation. I had to beseech my soul to again become confident
ourselves, and is concerned about
in what it was I hoped for and had assurance for what I could
every facet of our lives.
not see or touch. Now I could go on; but ya’ll I have to get to the good part!! Yes there will a happy ending to my plight. That
30 | Winter 2012
From Within... When every, I read or hear this scripture, I can’t help but to think of my youngest son, Shelton E. Oliver. From a small child, he had so much faith that it was frightened to me. I’m not sure how he came about his faith, how it happened or when it happened, but it was, and still is unbelievable. I must confess, at one time I wished that I had his type of faith. The kind that you never question rather something would happen, but knew that it will happen without a shadow of a doubt.
“Now faith is the substance of things hope for, the evidence of things not seen.” Heb. 11:1 (KJV)
I remember listening to a sermon once and the minister mention “faith the size of a mustard seed” in his text. Instantly, I wanted to see what a mustard seed looked like. How could I compare this faith to the mustard seed size? In fact, the mustard seed is very small, not like any seed that I had seen before. So, if that was all the faith I needed, then what if I had faith larger than the mustard seed? Was this the faith that my young son had? And so, it is the faith of my young son whom I gained the same faith to dream, to explore, and to live. Having the faith to believe that the impossible will become the possible! Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” Heb. 11-3 And as always, Love, Peace, and Increase…
Verna
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The “Each One Reach One” church growth challenge is an initiative that challenge members of Holy Nation Church to....
• Be a witness and win souls for Christ • Compel individuals without a church home to visit Holy Nation • Challenge individuals to become members of Holy Nation • Spread the vision of Holy Nation in the Memphis and surrounding community We are extending ourselves to the Memphis, West Memphis and surrounding communities to come and grow with us as we impact the world for Christ!
3333 Old Brownsville Road Memphis, TN 38134 For More Information Call: (901)491-6403
Andrew and Shirley Perpener, Pastor