Born2wryte's Gospel Connection by Born2wryte Media Productions

Born2wryte's Gospel Connection™ Jason Bare Unveils the “Beautiful Design” Tamela Mann and “The Master Plan” “Worshiping God In Spirit And In Truth”..with Terry McAlmon “Mirror Mirror” The Gospel Stage Play by Jerri Fondren

JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise: The Best Is Yet To Come Kirk Whalum and “The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter “The GOOD NEWS” Sermon by Dr. J.K. Hamilton

Jan-Mar 2011 Volume 2 No. 1

Born2wryte's Gospel Connection™

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples”.

- John 15: 4-8

CONTENTS ___________________

FEATURES:

Let’s Talk About It 27-28 “Depression….Should Christians Suffer From It‖ by Born2wryte™

Born2wryte’s Gospel Connection™

PUBLISHER: So Let It Be Wrytten Media Publications™ gospelconnection@born2wryte.com

Industry News 6 Books That Inspire 10 Minister Alison Moore’s ―That Life Wasn’t Easy, but This Life Is Worth It‖ Editorial by Born2wryte™

“The Good News”: Sermon from Pastor J K Hamilton 13-15 ―Let This Mind Be In You‖ by Pastor J K Hamilton

Wryters’ Sanctuary 17 ―Things Aren’t Always What They Seem‖

Cover Stories: 19 Tamela Mann and ―The Master Plan‖ by Born2wryte™

20-21 ―Worshiping God In Spirit and In Truth with Terry McAlmon‖ By Born2wryte™

22 ―JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise: The Best Is Yet To Come‖

___________________ COMING SOON: The Diary of Amber Christian™

_______________________ EDITOR: Editor –In- Chief: Debra Born2wryte™ Kennard

debra@born2wryte.com

Gospel Music Billboard Cookin N The Spirit

Managing Editor: Kathryn Brown originalstorymaster@yahoo.com

_______________________ Photo Journalist and Videographer: Freddie Watkins Forever Photography Studio Www.bigsmilesforeverphoto.com

_______________________ Born2wryte’s Gospel Connection™ : 5909 Stone Meadow Ct. Arlington, TX 76017 817-210-8427 info@born2wryte.com www.issuu.com/born2wryte

By Born2wryte™

23-24 Jason Bare Unveils the ―Beautiful Design‖ By Born2wryte™

25 Kirk Whalum and ―The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter III‖ By Born2wryte™

Born2wryte’s Gospel Connection™ Magazine is a division of Born2wryte Media Productions™. Born2wryte’s Gospel . Connection™ is quarterly publication. No portion of this magazine, including without limitation, articles and listing, may be reproduced 3 of the without the written permission Publisher.

The Editor’s Word A division of Born2wryte Media Productions™….Born2wryte’s Gospel Connection™ (BGC) is an quarterly online publication whose target is both the “Churched” and the Unchurched”. Our focus is on helping and encouraging men, women, and children of all ages, and to uplift, and educate people on what sayeth the Lord. Part of our mission is to serve as a gateway to get and keep you connected to the “Spirit” and the “Word” of God. BGC would like to offer everyone an opportunity to write and have your work published in the Wryters” Sanctuary™ section of the magazine. The Wryters’ Sanctuary’s™ purpose is to be a vehicle for a positive outlet, as opposed to a negative outlet for the strongholds in our lives. Our prayer is that if at least one person is helped, healed or saved by what they have read in Gospel Connection, then we have a accomplished our goal, assigned to us by God. We will strive daily to accomplish this goal, over, and over, and over again…….until the trumpet sounds.

“Get Connected” 4

The Christian Music Hall of Fame has announced their inductees into the Hall of Fame for 2011. This year’s inductions include a very mixed group of individuals and bands which cover a wide range of Christian music. ―We believe these artists are most deserving to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to not only Christian music, but for their ministries as well,‖ states Andy Woolard, Director of Operations for the Christian Music Hall of Fame. ―We are excited to pay tribute to the great careers these artists have had and those who continue to encourage others with their music and ministries.‖ This year’s inductees are: ● DeGarmo & Key ● Nicole C. Mullen ● Dixie Melody Boys ● Jeoffrey Benward ● Take 6 ● Wayne Watson

● Susie Luchsinger

The inducted artists will be formally recognized during the 3rd annual Visionary Awards show to be held in the Dallas, Texas area on November 5, 2011. The Visionary Awards are an annual event highlighting the top talent in a variety of genres of Christian music. ―This year’s show will not only feature the awards presentations, but there will be lots of music from a variety of artists, comedy and much more,‖ adds Woolard. ―This will be a great night of music, laughter and fellowship. We already have confirmation from Babbie Mason and Bruce Carroll that they will both be attending the show. We have many more plans for a great show and will keep fans updated on our website.‖

___________________________________________________________________________________________ Gospel Music’s biggest acts Mary Mary, BeBe and CeCe Winans, and Kirk Franklin hit the road to bring the good news to your ears and feet this spring. Don’t be left out without your ticket. Mary Mary and the CeCe and BeBe Winans

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April 1, 2011- Detroit, MI -Fox Theatre April 2, 2011- Chicago, IL -The Chicago Theatre April 6, 2011 -Washington, DC- Lincoln Theatre April 8, 2011-Darby, PA -Tower Theater Fri April 9, 2011- New York, NY – Madison Square Garden Kirk Franklin and Steve Harvey have teamed up to bring you comedy and music with the ―Gospel Comedy Tour‖ Kirk’s new album ―Hello Fear‖ will be available March 29, 2011. will feature ―I Smile‖ and ―I Am‖ which are both on the radio now.

The Gospel Comedy Tour Featuring: Kirk Franklin and Steve Harvey  March 26, 2011- Tampa, FL St Pete Forum-

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April 2, 2011- Desoto County, MS -Civic Center April 9, 2011-Nashville, TN- Bridgestone Arena April 30, 2011- North Charleston, SC -North Charleston Coliseum May 7, 2011- Bossier City, LA -CenturyTel Center

May 21, 2011- Jacksonville, FL -Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena June 25, 2011- Del Mar, CA- Del Mar Fairgrounds (* Kirk Franklin Only)

The Church of God in Christ mourns the passing of Bishop Chandler David Owens Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake and the General Board of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) are saddened by the passing of General Board Member and former Presiding Bishop Chandler David Owens.

Bishop Chandler David Owens has died at 79 years of age in Atlanta, Georgia. An internationally known leader, Bishop Owens for more than 35 years faithfully served as a member of the General Board of the Church of God in Christ and from 1995-2000, as Presiding Bishop of the church. Presiding Bishop Blake, says ―the Former Presiding Bishop, Chandler David Owens’ contribution to the Church of God in Christ will forever be remembered in the annals of church history with gratitude, fondness, and respect. Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life. We seek the prayers of friends and saints around the world for His loving wife, Mrs. Shirley Owens, his children, other family members, and the membership of the Church of God in Christ.‖ Born in Birmingham, Alabama on October 1, 1931, Bishop Owens started preaching as a young child; his ministry spanned more than seven decades. He was a lifelong member of the church, traveled globally and ministered in practically every state in America. He first pastored in Newark, NJ at the Wells Cathedral COGIC, where he served for over 33 years until his move to the state of Georgia. While in New Jersey, Bishop Owens was also the Jurisdictional Prelate of the Third Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. Bishop Owens, with dedication and loyalty, served the Church of God in Christ in various leadership roles, including International President of the Youth Congress, Chairman of the Constitution Committee Second Assistant Presiding Bishop and First Assistant Presiding Bishop, Preacher, Teacher, Pastor of the Greater Community Church in Marietta, Georgia and Prelate of Central Georgia Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. His heart for missions led him to establish, financially and through various other means, churches, schools and transportation for ministries in the Philippines, India, Malawi and Central Africa. Bishop Owens will always be remembered for his electrifying oratory. His lifetime of experience at every level of church affairs made him a venerable fountain of wisdom and knowledge. He leaves to mourn, his wife, Mrs. Shirley Owens and three children, Chandler David II, Chandra Stephanie and Shirilitha Jeanette (deceased). He is the proud and loving grandfather of seven grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time. The Church of God in Christ is the fourth-largest Protestant religious denomination in the United 7 States, with churches in 60 countries worldwide and a membership of nearly 6.5 million members article courtesy of cogic.net

Playwright Jerri Fondren and Her Gospel Stage Play “Mirror Mirror” by Born2wryte™ Mirror Mirror is an exciting stage play that forces you to take a look in the mirror. It makes you ask the question, who do you see; do you see yourself or do you see an image of that person you believe is your soulmate? Do you see an image of God? The soulmate that you are searching for, do they reflect the image of God? Examine yourself. What are you really looking for when searching for that soulmate and what qualities must they possess? You can spend your whole life searching for that special someone if you are not looking for the right things. Mirror Mirror addresses the results of the choices that we make when searching for the one we desire to be our soulmate. It gives us an example of how there is no peace if we have not found that special someone who is a reflection of God. Mirror Mirror will make you laugh and it will make you cry, it will make you think seriously about a lot of issue, and then it will make you laugh again. Jerri Fondren wrote, co-directed, and starred in the play. A native of Memphis, TN, Jerri was born into a musical family, which naturally enabled her to be a ―phenomenal‖ singer/songwriter. Her other skills and talents have enabled her to also be a director and a producer. Jerri produced the TV Show, Jazz Gospel Beatz. Jerri now resides in Dallas, TX where she continues to keep the magic going as she continues to write and produce events to benefit the Kingdom of God. Jerri’s life experience of dealing with relationships is what lead her to write Mirror Mirror, in efforts of informing and encouraging others to wait on God. The co-star of this play has a rare and priceless talent that allows him to act, sing, and provide comic relief. His list of accomplishments is extensive, and his potential success is limitless. Rick Bernard James, remember his name because you will see it again, and again, and again. Everyone in the play has a beautiful singing voice, but Apostle Darrell Yancey is the one who brings the house down with his performance. You will not be able to sit in your seat when Apostle Yancey gets on the mic. If you have never heard applause so loud that it sounds like thunder, you will after Apostle sings. Not only does he capture the audience with his singing, but he catches them with his comedic talents as well. Playing one of the supporting roles is DFW’s own Ms. Carmina Barnett from KHVN Heaven 97. Carmina lends her beautiful voice to the dynamic singing performances throughout the play, as well as her pleasantly surprising comedic talent. Carmina is the host of the Midday Inspiration Radio Show on KHVN. She is also the host of the Home Grown Gospel Show which spotlights up and coming gospel artists from the DFW Metroplex. Carmina is the Vice-President of the Dallas Chapter of the Gospel Announcer’s Guild and a Board Member of the Texas Gospel Announcer’s Guild. Among Carmina’s many accomplishments and awards is her nomination for the Gospel Announcer of the Year for the 2010 Stellar Awards. There are several other talented and accomplished members of the cast that add to the success of this play. If the play had to be described in one word that word would be….‖Encore‖! To learn more about the Mirror Mirror play and cast members, as well as finding information on when the play is coming to your town, go www.facebook.com/jerrifondren. To see the video, click the following link. 8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_C-qMLbjtgQ.

2011 Super Bowl Gospel Celebration Was Just That......"A Gospel Celebration" by Born2wryteâ&#x201E;˘

Fantastic was the night as "gospel" took center stage with the NFL Players Choir and the "Who's Who" in the Gospel Music Industry at the 2011 Super Bowl Gospel Celebration. Israel Houghton was a part of the never ending excitement of the night. Israel wowed the crowd and ushered in the Holy Spirit with his heart-felt performance and set the tone for the entire evening. Each and every performer brought so much energy, showmanship, and passion to their performances, it made the entire place electrifying, and the audience was uplifted to heights beyond the stars. James Fortune, Israel Houghton, CeCe Winans, Mary Mary, Marvin Sapp, and Donnie McClurkin were all at their best last night, but they were not the only ones. The NFL Players Choir stole the show with their incredible performances, directed by Myron Butler. The choir is strong with talent and great vocals, with no shortage of members who can take the lead and carry the show; "Amazing". Then came the Voices of Destiny of Greater Zion Church from Los Angeles, California. They are the 2010 "Verizon Wireless How Sweet the Sound" competition winners who refused to take a back seat at last night's celebration. That choir made it very clear why they were winners. To sum them up in one word...."phenomenal". The night continued to get better and better as NFL Hall of Fame member Emmit Smith and his wife Pat made an appearance to give thanks to everyone on behalf of their charities. The list of celebrity sightings, as well as NFL player sightings was endless last night. The 2011 Super Bowl Gospel Celebration was a huge hit and I can not wait for it to come back to Texas.

“That Life Wasn’t Easy, But This Life Is Worth It” Editorial by Born2wryte™

That Life Wasn’t Easy, But This Life Is Worth It” is a gut-wrenching and thought provoking book that explores the author’s life from the period of ―despair‖ to ―Holiness‖. The author, Alison L. Moore, was born in Florida, and is a graduate from ―The University of Hard Knocks‖ and is a former ―Pharmaceutical Expert‖. Her rap sheet is said to include 16 years of homosexuality and 22 years of drug abuse. The book tells how Alison went from Homosexuality to Holiness, from Drug Addiction to being Addicted to God, from Alcoholism to being Anointed, and from Whoredom to Wisdom. In the book, Alison talks in detail about her homosexuality, drug and alcohol abuse, a number of tragedies, and how she came to give her life to God. She was not a child who was victimized by a broken home. She actually had a normal childhood with both parents. They were a middle income family. Alison’s parents provided her with the best of everything. She took ballet, piano and ukulele classes. They were a church going family and they vacationed in various cities and the Islands. So how does a seemingly normal kid end up participating in scandalous behavior? Alison tells you in her book. In the book, she also informs parents on what to look for in your child’s behavior, and what not to take for granted or fool yourself into thinking about your child. Equally as important, she has some do’s and don’ts for kids. After reading the book, I had several questions for Alison. More than anything, I wanted to know what her ultimate purpose was for writing this book. She replied, ―My purpose was to first give God the glory in my life. He instructed me to write this book to reach the nations, telling everyone about the goodness of Jesus and all that He’s done for me. This book lets people know: no matter what you’ve been through or what you’re going through, there’s nothing too hard for God. Through God all things are possible. In your darkest season, God will use your adversity to enlarge your vision‖. To receive a copy of the book “That Life Wasn’t Easy, But This Life Is Worth It”, you can send a check or money order in the amount of $13.25 to: Minister Alison Moore P.O. Box 926 Zellwood, FL 32798 Email: ministeralison@yahoo.com Promotions by GZ Underground, www.myspace.com/gzunderground.

March 5th is nationally recognized as World Day of Prayer. With prayer being our communication with God, it is something that we should try to do daily in order to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. God wants a relationship with us, and He desires and waits for us, with patience and longsuffering, to talk to Him. He does not mind hearing from us when we need Him most, but He is especially pleased to hear from us when we are not in trouble and just want to say hello and thank you. Let us now take that moment to give Him all the glory, the honor, and the praise. Prayer of Peace and Guidance: Oh Heavenly Father, God and Father of us all, we pray that we become instrument of your peace…… Where there is injury—pardon Where there is doubt—bring faith Where there is darkness—let your light shine Where there is sadness—bring joy Oh Heavenly Father, please grant that we not so much seek to be consoled as we seek to be a consoler. Where there is perplexity, help us to understand. Help us to love and forgive others inspite of how they treat us, for it is in the pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in the dying that we are born to eternal life. Father we know that all power is in your hands and that we can do nothing without you; our next breath, and our next step is determined by you. Please bless our world leaders; we pray that Your spirit rest upon them and through Your guidance, allow skillful and Godly wisdom to enter into their hearts so that they may do Your will. Make them men and women of integrity that as a nation and as a world, we will lead quiet and peaceful lives. To You, our refuge and stronghold in time of trouble and adverse difficulties, we thank you for this nation and for this world, its Leaders, Presidents, Kings and Queens alike. In Jesus’ name……...Amen!

Prayer provided by Bro. Charles T. Greene, Sr. Pastor of Oak Cliff Church of Christ located at 4650 S. Hampton Rd. , Dallas, TX 75232, 214-337-5800. 11

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR VIDEO The Book Of Life A Gospel Musical Stage Play Written & Directed By: Tammy Harris Filmed Live at The Potter's House in Dallas, Texas This play is a tool for the unchurched! Pastors & Church Leaders Order Your FREE Copy Today! For More Information www.ANuBeginningEnt.com Promoted By: www.NationwideMinistry.info

Sermon by

Pastor J.K Hamilton Photo by Willie Johnson

Pastor J K Hamilton is the senior pastor of Mountain View Church of Christ in Dallas, TX. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Pastor Hamilton moved to Texas in 1990 to attend Southwestern Christian College in Terrell, TX. Before completing the four year Bible program at SWCC, he met his beautiful ―Dallas Queen‖, Carol Burnett. Pastor Hamilton then went on to begin ministering in East Texas for four years before returning to Dallas. Pastor Hamilton humbly proclaims that he is just plain folk trying to make it to Heaven, and trying to take people with him. He believes that he is doing what he was put here to do, and that is preaching. He knows this because he has tried alternatives, and God keeps bringing him back to this point. Pastor Hamilton believes that he has been called to bring people to Christ, and to help them weight the tons and tons of baggage and bad laundry that block and eclipse the light of the Gospel. ―Some people can not even see Christ for their own issues and hurt and pain that stand in the way‖, says Pastor Hamilton. When it comes to preaching the word of God, Pastor Hamilton, chooses to focus on scriptural integrity. He does not try to go for emotions or sensationalism first. ―Sensationalism lasts only as long as the sermon. When the preaching is done, I do not want people to be as impressed with me as they are interested in the word‖, says Pastor Hamilton. Pastor Hamilton believes that with scriptural integrity, the Bible has the answer to everything; How to be a better husband, how to be a better wife, and it even has the answers for the fundamental issues of salvation. For Pastor Hamilton, preaching gives him a sense of fulfillment of his purpose. For him, it is rewarding to see a person go from drug addiction to doing the benediction; It is rewarding to see the power of God at work. You will find Pastor J K Hamilton at Mountain View Church of Christ located at 4111 West Illinois Avenue, Dallas, TX 75211, or at 214-339-7145. 13

Let This Mind Be In You© by J K Hamilton The apostle born out of due season wrote this epistle to the Church of Christ in Phillipi. Phillipi was where the apostle found himself after receiving a vision. The text says in Acts 16 beginning with verse 9.The text says that after he saw the vision he immediately endeavored to go to Macedonia to preach the good news of Jesus Christ. Paul finds himself in the chief city of Philippi and there the church of Christ was established in the household of Lydia and became very instrumental in the evangelistic ministry of the apostle Paul. This is one of the most beautiful texts in the New Testament. It shows us and instructs us as to how we can adopt the mind of Jesus Christ. He starts out in this 2nd Chapter of Philippians by requesting to them that they make his joy full by having the same mind and the same love. The Apostle expressed to them that by doing so his joy would be full. There is nothing more beautiful than seeing the people of God bound together in love; forbearing one another, forgiving one another, having the same mind, and not treating others in ways that we would not want to be treated ourselves. Paul writing from a Roman prison would feel joy in the middle of his situation knowing that God’s people in Philippi were striving to keep themselves together. This was one of the main focuses of the apostle. In just about every letter that the apostle Paul wrote to the churches of Christ he mentions something about unity. Then in verse 3 of our text he encourages them to keep their intentions pure by not doing things out of strife or vainglory. That word strife is a word that carries with it the idea of being in competition with someone else. The apostle Paul in essence is saying don’t get caught up in the rat race of keeping up. Don’t do things with the intentions of out doing someone else. Then he uses the word vainglory, which has to do with not doing a thing so that you can have your pride pumped up and your ego stroked. The apostle stresses the importance of humility. He encourages the church on an individual basis by saying let each esteem others better than themselves in lowliness of mind. Don’t be self centered and self-absorbed to where you become stingy with yourself. Then in our text Paul shows them the way that they can maintain the spirit of humility. He says let this mind be IN YOU which was also in Christ Jesus. Paul said IN YOU. When you have the mind of Christ in you, then it will be seen in the work that you do. For he says in verse 12b, work out your own soul salvation with fear and trembling. You can’t work out your salvation unless you have the mind of Christ in you. In order for us to see the immensity of what Jesus did, we need to understand what the bible says in John 1:1-3. The bible says ―in the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made‖. In other words, when light was separated from the darkness, Jesus was there. When the waters above were separated from the waters below, Jesus was there. When the first lion let out his ferocious roar and the first cow grazed in the field, Jesus was there. He was part of the ―us‖ committee when Jehovah God said ―Let us make man in our own image after our likeness‖. It was his hand that formed and shaped the first man. It was his breath that went down into his nostrils making him a living soul. He performed the first surgery when he took the scalpel of his will and made an incision in Adams side, extracted a rib and made Adam a wife. Man was always subject to look up to him because he sat high and looked low. But when the fullness of time came, Jesus emptied himself of his majestic glory. He poured out his sovereignty; he let go of his exclusive divine nature. Took off the divine robes of his deity and put on the dusty rags of a servant. God the son became the Son of God. He who knew no pain now becomes subject to pain. He who created man from head to feet now takes water and washes the feet of his creation. What humility. What meekness. And now he who knew no death subjects himself to the power of death. And the amazing aspect of it all is that he did not do it for his own good. He did not do it because he was curious about what being mortal felt like. God, through the wisdom of his providence, knew that in the 21st century there would be some people who would find themselves discouraged and would wonder whether or not he really understands what they’re going through; but he can say to them now through his word ―You have not a high priest which can not be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin‖ (Hebrews 14 4:15).

We can say "Hallelujah" that we praise a God who knows how we feel when we’re mistreated; A God who knows how we feel when we’re lied on and betrayed. He didn’t have to do it but he did it anyway. Praise God that we serve a savior who knows what it feels like to be in debt. As a matter of fact, he went through his whole life borrowing things: He was born in a borrowed stable: Luke 2:7; He was laid in a borrowed manger: Luke 2:7,12; He used as his pulpit a borrowed boat: Mark 4:1; He fed thousands with a borrowed lunch: John 6:9-11; He taught from a borrowed book: Luke 4:16,17; He slept in a borrowed bed: Luke 9:58; He rode as king on a borrowed beast: Matthew 21:2,3; He observed the Last Supper in a borrowed room: Matthew 26:18; He was mocked as king in a borrowed robe: Matthew 27:27-31; and He was buried in a borrowed tomb: Matthew 27:59-60. He went his whole life borrowing but praise God he never borrowed anything that he didn’t give back. When he borrowed that stable he gave it back. When he borrowed the manger he gave it back. When he borrowed the boat he gave it back. When he borrowed the lunch he gave it back. When he borrowed the book he gave it back. When he borrowed a bed he gave it back. When he borrowed the beast he gave it back. When he borrowed the room he gave it back. When he borrowed the robe he gave it back and praise be to Jehovah God when he borrowed the tomb he gave it back. In verse 7 it says that he made HIMSELF of no reputation. In verse 8 the text says he humbled HIMSELF, and became obedient unto death. You see there is a difference between being humbled and humbling yourself. I hear James say in James 4:10 ―Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up‖. Jesus says in Matthew 18:4 ―Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven‖. There is a difference between being humbled and humbling yourself. I don’t know about you, but I would rather humble myself than to have God humble me. What happens when God humbles a person? Ask Pharaoh and he’d tell you "God humbled me by dispatching a death angel to take the life of my first born son and then later by drowning us by allowing the waters of the red sea to come splashing down on us". When you have the mind of Christ you’ll always find yourself on the low road but if you trust in God, empty yourself of yourself and stay on the low road it won’t be long before God places you on the Highway. However, its not always an easy thing to take the low road... it’s not easy to: Apologize to a person even though you know within yourself that they should be apologizing to you; Still treat a person with kindness even though they treat you like garbage; Shake hands with people who greet you with their right hand and stab you with their left.; nor To forgive and forget (even if you do talk to Dr. Phil). The low road is often a hard and treacherous road. However, God will Only exalt low road people. God never exalts the proud but rather the humble because he sees so much of his son Jesus in people who are humble. When you’re truly humble: You don’t have to tell people about the good you do; You know that even if you don’t get rewarded down here you have your reward in heaven. When someone begins to open fire in a crowd the best thing to do is GET DOWN because you can’t get shot down if you’re down already. Many of us just need to GET DOWN and humble our selves by the mind of Christ. ■■

Gospel Artist Barry D

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Things Aren't Always What They Seemâ&#x20AC;? Author Unknown

Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it. When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied..."Things aren't always what they seem". The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest. When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel "how could you have let this happen!? The first man had everything, yet you helped him," she accused. "The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let their cow die." "Things aren't always what they seem," the older angel replied. "When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it. Then last night as we slept in the farmers bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I gave her the cow instead. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Things aren't always what they seem". Sometimes this is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way they should. If you have faith in God, just trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You might not realize it until much later. 17

Tamela Mann and “The Master Plan” by Born2wryte™

Tamela Mann, Actress, Singer, and now Songwriter, along with Myron Butler, has put together the master of lyrics, vocals, and musical instruments in one total package of her sophomore CD, craft-fully and adequately titled, “The Master Plan”. Every song on this CD feels like a testimony in which every living person can or soon will relate to. ―The Master Plan‖ is a brilliant synergy and perfect mix of old school and new school gospel music; Tamela wanted to make sure that she was able to provide something for everyone to enjoy. Even in choosing the tile of the CD (The Master Plan), Tamela's desire was to be able to bless people and give them something that they can use when they are going through trials and tribulations so that they can take comfort in knowing that no matter what and through it all God has the master plan and victory will be its result; you are not alone and God has your back. With each and every song on the CD being a blessing to all who hears it, Tamela humbly confesses that she is just a vessel trying to be used by God; a choice that a countless number of people will benefit from. Tamela believes that God is faithful and just. Regardless of what she is going through, she trusts Him; she trusts Him to be God and she wants to always allow Him to be God to see her through every situation that she is in. Knowing that God forgives, Tamela desires to do everything that she can to please God, and like most of us, she never wants to let Him down. The anointment on Tamela Mann is so powerful you cannot help but to accept and believe every word of praise that she professes. Tamela is exactly what you see and hear. She is kind, funny, compassionate, loving (with much love for her husband and children), and she loves the Lord. As she gives back with the gift that she has been given, she gives God all of the glory and honor. Tamela is a living advertisement for the character of Christ, therefore you believe every word of praise that she sings, and in her presence, humble you will feel because you know that God is present. Through her, you see God, and that is what she wants and works hard to continuously accomplish; and the words ―well done‖, surely He will profess to her. ■■ 19

Worshiping God in Spirit and In Truth with Terry MacAlmon by Born2wryte™

Humble, a gentle soul, one who passionately loves the Lord, and is proud to be a Christian, is what you feel when you talk to Terry MacAlmon. Now a resident of the DFW Metroplex, Terry is a world renowned Gospel recording artist whose talents were, not taught, but God given. Terry was born in New York State, but the family moved to Kentucky when he was 2 years old. Terry started playing the piano when he was at the tender age of 3. Raised in a Christian home, Terry would play songs he remembered from Sunday School class. Unsurprisingly, his parents realized that he had a gift. He played his first solo in the church at the age of 5, and he became the church pianist at age 11. Terry spent several years serving in music ministry positions for many churches, as well as traveling in concert work across America. The reason Terry chooses to continue to play songs of worship as opposed to other genres of music is because he always had a special place in his heart for the intimacy of a relationship with the Lord. Worship became popular in the 1970’s, when he was a teenager, and he took a liking to; it became his life and it became the highest way to serve God to him by worshiping Him with music, and writing songs of worship about Him, and to it he is committed. ―Playing songs of worship gives me a connection to my Heavenly Father. His love for me is unconditional, and it makes me want to love Him back‖, is what Terry receives from playing songs of worship. ―I know that it brings Him pleasure, and I think it is why we were created. I do not think I can do anything of a higher praise to Him than to simply worship Him in spirit and in truth‖. Moving his wife and children to Colorado Springs in 1990 was the beginning of an eight year wilderness for Terry. He said that God had a plan they could not see, but it was part of the journey that they now cherish. ―It prepared our heart for what he is doing for us now‖. Terry and his family went many years with a poverty lifestyle, but are now being abundantly blessed by God. Terry lets it be known that he and his family are now able to give to others because they remember how special it was when others gave to them, during some very hard times. ―He helped me go through all of it so He could show me that the gift and the anointing that He has put on my life all come from Him, and nothing happens outside of Him. It was a time to see God faithfully provide for us every month of every year‖. Terry did not know that God was going to see him through those hard times. There were times when he was banging his head against the wall, thinking that he had no gift, no anointing, no ability, and no calling. ―After a period of time you start to wonder, but only because we are human. We are clay pots with cracks in them. It is all we are at our best, and it is all we are at our worst‖. In November, 1998, God’s way of bringing Terry out of the wilderness was by giving him the vision to gather the worshipers and assemble for ―Lunch with the Lord‖. Terry said that every Wednesday for six years at noontime, God started bringing people in from all denominations, and people were being healed and relationships were being reconciled. ―It was wonderful to see so many facets of the Body of Christ coming together and leaving their labels at the door, and just worshiping Jesus together. 20

The menu for ―Lunch with the Lord‖ would be for Terry to just set up his keyboard, not on the platform, but on the floor. Then people would just begin to worship the Lord. There were no speakers and no announcements; there was nothing but worship for 60 minutes every week. Eventually, they started recording those worship meetings. People started buying CDs and taking them to other nations. ―God just began his own promotion program‖. Terry utilizes his gift in his involvement with Regional Worship Conferences and Seminars. With other worship leaders and people interested in worship, Terry talks about the presence of God, and how to get God’s presence back into our services. Terry talks to people, not on how to write a song or orchestrate worship, but about the Father’s heart and what He is after. ―It is what we need to be teaching our people, regarding worship and entering into the presence of God‖. Terry’s thoughts on the discontentment of gospel concerts being canceled and gospel music channels being pulled from television lineups is that ―Pure worship is a great threat to the enemy’s camp. The devil does not care about religion, but he hates relationship. The devil is lulling the Church asleep so that relationship turns into religion, and we do not experience God in our worship the way we use to, or the way we are so suppose to; That is the devil’s plan, but God has a better plan. God is greater than the enemy, and I think He is going to restore worship to the Bride‖. Terry MacAlmon is a man with an amazingly beautiful spirit, who without a doubt is all about God, God, and God. Anyone would be encouraged and feel blessed to have an opportunity to speak with him about his life, and about worshiping God in spirit and in truth. To find out more about Terry MacAlmon, and to purchase his CDs, DVDs/Videos and Songbooks go to his website at www.terrymacalmon.com. ■■

JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise: The Best Is Yet To Come by Born2wryte™

It has been an amazing 18 years since the inception of the group JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, and with God’s stamp of approval, they are still going strong and in their best season to date. At the top of the list of all the great things this year has brought JJ & Youthful Praise is the birth of JJ’s baby girl Jayell Lelah Hairston. Jayell is now 4 months old and the newest addition of her parent’s pride and joy. Additionally the group has been blessed with steady performances on a weekly basis around the country. Not only has JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise touched the hearts of people in the US, but they have also reached the masses across the great seas and made a difference in the lives of those living in Africa. On October 21st – 24th of 2010, JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, along with Kim Burrell and Hezekiah Walker, performed in Capetown, South Africa. With amazement and gratefulness in his voice, JJ informed me that the citizens of Capetown were already familiar with a couple of their songs. The icing on the cake of all the blessings the group has received this year is their 4 Stellar Award nominations. They have been nominated for “Choir of the Year”, “Contemporary CD of the Year”, “Contemporary Choir of the Year”, and “Praise and Worship CD of the Year”. JJ is extremely proud and grateful for the “Praise and Worship CD of the Year” nomination. JJ said that it is the first time that the group has been recognized in that category; it is what they have always done and do with each song and each performance, so it is a very special honor. The group has consistently been on Billboard’s Top 20 with each CD they have recorded, starting with their very first CD ―Awesome God‖ which was released in 1999, and they are redeeming great success with their most requested songs “Resting On His Promise” and “Lord You’re Mighty”. When asked how long he would continue to sing and perform, JJ humbly replied that he would do it until he could not do it anymore. Look for JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise for upcoming performances on TBN and The Bobby Jones Gospel Hour. Even with the platinum success the group has harvested this year, JJ feels in his heart that the best is yet to come! 22

Congratulations go out to JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise, and they are wished continued blessings from God, as they continue to be a blessing to others! ■■

Jason Bare Unveils the "Beautiful Design" by Born2wryte™

Photos used under Creative Commons from Wiselywoven, M. Keefe, DoktorSpinn

Born into a musical family, as well as having a Pastor for a father, Jason Bare was preordained to be both a Gospel Artist and a Pastor of praise and worship. At the tender age of 4, Jason began to play the keys at his father’s church, and by the time he was 12 Jason was writing songs of praise and worship. Jason continued to progress and develop his writing skills, as well as his vocal and instrumental gifts. Having fine tuned his gifts and having accumulated material from his life’s journey, including his Cousin Amanda’s life and the impact of her death, Jason is now ready to unveil his debut CD justly titled Beautiful Design.

The title song track is one that Jason wrote with his cousin Amanda many years ago, but they never finished it and as time passed, Jason actually forgot the place in which he had stored the song; for eight years, he tirelessly searched for that song, not yet knowing the significance of its existence. His cousin Amanda was weighted down with the stronghold of drug addiction for much of her life, even during the time she wrote the song with Jason. After a lifetime of battling her addiction, Amanda appeared to have been turning her life around and getting it together, but in 2009 at the age of 27, Amanda died suddenly of a medically-induced drug overdose. While packing for her funeral on the day of her death, Jason found the song he had written with Amanda, and it was then that he realized the significance of that song. ―I had searched for that song for years, and when I found it on the exact day she died, I knew it had to be a God-thing. I told her parents I had found it, and they asked me to sing it for her funeral. I wanted to put that song on the new CD so that Amanda’s life would be a beacon of hope for people. It also became a catalyst for me to get serious about music and use my life to make a difference for other people.‖ Remembering that Amanda had always said that the song was her story of grace, Jason was able to complete the last line in the chorus that he and Amanda had never gotten to, and now with and like the death of his cousin Amanda, it is finished….it is done. It has now been almost 15 years since Jason first began his journey of music ministry, but he feels as though he is just getting started. He now knows what God has called him to do, and he does not want to leave this earth with regrets of not walking in God’s purpose for his life. With God’s 23 strength, Jason has defeated his fear of rejection and of not being worthy or good enough to be a gospel artist. Jason confesses that God helped him to realize that if God called him to do it, then

God will also equip him to do it. Consequently, the thing that Jason wants most from the release of this CD is for people to find confidence in who they are in Christ, and for people to know that no matter what your calling is, fear not because you can not go wrong walking in the footsteps of Christ; do not hesitate to share with the world what God has given you; ―We are God’s mouthpiece and He uses us to go forth and accomplish things for Him‖. The Beautiful Design CD is the personification of praise and worship. The entire CD has a perfect mix of jazz, rock, and traditional gospel tracks, and it is vocally crafted to give everyone the pleasure of an ultimate devotion experience of praise and worship. The CD has already gained national attention and will be played in all Chick-Fil-A and Carmax locations nationwide. The CD is scheduled to drop on January 18, 2011 and the title track Beautiful Design is now available on www.amazon.com. To learn more about Jason Bare and the Beautiful Design, visit www.jasonbare.com, www.reverbnation.com/jasonbaremusic, and www.adamsprgroup.com.■■

Kirk Whalum and "The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter III" by Born2wryte™

Kirk Whalum released his new CD "The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter III" on March 16, 2010. It is definitely a must have for both Jazz and Gospel music lovers. The album includes a few heavy hitters by the names of the Legendary George Duke, Lalah Hathaway, Doc Powell, and Dallas' own Bishop T.D. Jakes. Kirk Whalum performed on the Sundance Square stage at the 2010 Main Street Art Festival. Not only is Mr. Whalum a great Saxophonist, but he is a great man and a priceless asset to the world of music and to humanity. Herein is the link of a few clips from my interview with Kirk. Don't miss it; you may just hear some things that you did not know about Mr. Kirk Whalum. You can view the interview in its entirety at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/profile.php? ref=profile&id=100000409826874. Also on Facebook you have a chance to download songs from the CD for free when participate with the Kirk Whalum Share.12. Just search for Kirk Whalum on Facebook and click on the Share 12 tab for instructions. Search for me (Debra Kennard) on Facebook to watch the interview in its entirety. ■■

26 Photo from Light Records

Depression….Should Christians Suffer From It? by Born2wryte™

Depression is a silent killer of everything normal. It is a killer of all hopes, dreams, aspirations, and it can literally take your life. When it takes a hold of your mind, you are no longer in control. It is like a cancer cell, and it ravages your mind with such a personal vengeance, your thought process is totally disrupted and confused. You are powerless to decipher between reality and imagination. Your perception of life and everything in it is completely twisted. Sunny days are cloudy or gray, good news is no news, something good is sure to be followed by something bad, and something bad will definitely be followed by something worse. Needless to say, happiness ranges from rare to nonexistent. Depression attacks your body by tricking your mind into thinking it needs no food, too much of the wrong foods, and/or too much of any and everything that will do damage to the body, as well as a host of numerous things that will lead to the ultimate demise of your very existence. How can this be, one might ask. Is depression not a choice? Aren’t people depressed because they choose to be in a state of depression? My personal answer to that question would be, is cancer a choice. It is said that depression and Christians do not mix; they can not co-exist; Christians should not be worried about anything; ―too blessed to be stressed‖, it is said. This belief is added stress for a Christian because there is the weight of guilt that they bare for having feelings of worry, stress, disappointment and grief. If we did not worry, stress out, feel disappointment or grief, we would not be human. So is one not a Christian if they experience human emotions? Is depression a product of the devil? Or does the devil play a part in depression at all? Maybe… maybe not. Can it be that perhaps depression is just a part of life, like being blind, deaf, mute, and crippled? Well, let us first obtain a better understanding of depression, by defining exactly what depression is. As defined by Wikipedia (Online Encyclopedia), Depression may refer to: Depression (mood), a common term for a sad or low mood or the loss of pleasure; an emotion that does not affect capacity to perform personal and vocational obligations. In everyday language depression refers to any downturn in mood, which may be relatively transitory and perhaps due to something trivia. In the field of psychiatry the word depression can also have this meaning but more specifically refers to a mental illness when it has reached a severity and duration to warrant a diagnosis. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) states that a depressed mood is often reported as being: "... depressed, sad, hopeless, discouraged, or 'down in the dumps'." In a clinical setting, a depressed mood can be something a patient reports (a 27 symptom), or something a clinician observes (a sign), or both. Clinical depression (also called major depressive disorder or unipolar depression when

compared to bipolar disorder) is a state of intense sadness, melancholia or despair that has advanced to the point of being disruptive to an individual's social functioning and/or activities of daily living. Okay, now I just need to find someone to help me understand the difference, if there is one. In the meantime, please write in and share your point of view. Doctors and Preachers, please write in to try and help someone to know about the reality of depression and what it truly means. Please help to answer the question…”Depression...should Christians suffer from it”? Please write down your thoughts and send them to gospelconnection@born2wryte.com and put the word Depression in the Subject line. ■■

From left to right: Da T.R.U.T.H and Barry D