M'Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine 2013 Spring/Summer

Limited Edition

Modern Beauty In Christian Living

CHRISTIAN MAGAZINE

PUT YOUR TRUST IN GOD... NOT MAN! 2013 SPRING/SUMMER EDITION

Featured Article

Mission Impossible Kyauta Gajere

INFORM

•

EDUCATE

•

INSPIRE

HE IS RISEN...

JESUS THE CHRIST

HONORING & PRAYING FOR OUR FIRST FAMILY! table of CONTENTS

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FROM CHIEF EDITOR TEESHA WALKER

FEATURED ARTICLE MISSION IMPOSSIBLE

A WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER: FOR IT IS WRITTEN ELIZABETH JACKSON

MESSAGE: THE MATTER OF DYSFUNCTIONAL BEHAVIOR

BY PAUL D. LANDREW

INVITATION TO CHRIST

SALVATION- WHERE WILL YOUR SOUL SPEND ETERNITY?

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Material may not be reproduced in whole or in part, in any form without written permission from our company.

CO-Founder/Publisher Elizabeth Jackson

Photographer Ferrell Phelps Jr.

EDITOR Byron Jackson Jr.

Staff WRITER/Editor Kyauta Gajere

Advertisement Director Ronald Dupree

STAFF WRITER Alfred Thompson

Chief Editor Teesha Walker

Ad SalesperSON Pamela Survillion

Assistant Editor Pastor Melvin Kirks Jr.

TEESHA WALKER

from Editor//

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All previous M’Bracing Beauty Magazines are available for viewing, downloading, and or printing at the link above.

Sowing a Seed While Waiting on Your Harvest Regardless of your religious background, we have all been taught the principle of sowing and reaping. Matriarchs in our families and communities have all declared “You reap what you sow” or “What goes around comes around”. These are usually responses to a negative event that occur. They are a means to scare you straight or to make you think twice about an action you plan to take. But what if these were used to encourage a brother or sister in Christ at the most vulnerable time in his or her life? We could possibly change their outlook from one of a consequential state to believing God on a very powerful promise.

Galatians 6:7, Ecclesiastes 3:1- 2b and II Corinthians 9:6 all confirm that a harvest will develop out of whatever you sow. As the body of Christ we must take heed to three important objectives regarding the process of sowing and reaping.

First, reaping does not occur immediately after sowing. As with

everything else in life, there is a period of processing between sowing and reaping. Time is needed for growth and maturity. Not only must the seed grow but we as Christians must also mature and grow. Some of the blessings that God have for us will require more stability and wisdom in order to handle what is given. He would never prematurely give us anything knowing that we are unfit and unable to care for it.

and quantity of your sowing. Your seeds will need the proper lighting (the word of God) and irrigation (tears and sweat from prayers and labor).

In conclusion, we must never forget that this process is continuous. Always sow the proper seeds for the season of your harvest.

You cannot reap a summer fruit in a winter season. It will not share the same benefits. The harvest time is

Secondly, you will always reap not the end. It is the beginning of a more than what you sow. One seed is new process of sowing and reaping. planted, it blossoms into a tree and the Out of your harvest new seeds tree bears the fruit of that one seed.

Within the core of the fruit there are are produced. You must plant these so multiple seeds to start the process all that you will not experience a one-time over again. God is revealing two things: harvest. Leave a legacy for the future a) your harvest will always be greater farmers (generations) behind you. than the seed you sow; b) your harvest will always produce new seeds for sowing.

Thirdly, you will reap only what you have sown. You cannot plant grape seeds Teesha Walker, and expect apples to grow. Although God Editor-in-Chief is merciful and gracious, He is not blind.

What you sow is what you will reap. Do not allow setbacks in life affect the quality

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The Rodney Owens Story | M’Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine

Mission Impossible

“Mr. Hunt. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, involves the recovery of stolen items… You have forty-eight hours to receive your assignment... This message will selfdestruct in five seconds” (Mission Impossible II, 2000). Our mission as Christians is to live righteously, which contrasts drastically with the worldly culture we live in. Our mission seems impossible in fact, humanly speaking it is, but with God everything is possible (Matthew 19:26).

Mr. Rodney Owens is the visionary behind Serenity Pathway, Inc. It is a Houston based transitional home that facilitates men’s recovery from substance abuse. He has accepted his God–given mission in this cause. He is a man with a tremendous story, who exemplifies what God is capable of doing in the lives of any that trust in Him.

Where it began. In 1997 I went to treatment. I had a drug and alcohol problem.

I went to treatment to seek help. At the time I had been married for 5 years. We were going through marriage counseling and I got tired and I wanted to seek other help to get my life back, because that was not how I was raised. I made some decisions in my adolescent days that put me in that position to seek help through the criminal justice system. I went to treatment and found a new way of living. I knew I could live a productive and successful life without drugs and alcohol. When I graduated the program (12 steps, Texas House Programs therapeutic community), I learned a lot about myself. I learned a lot about being a man and being accountable. After I graduated, I thought I was going back to corporate America, but realized that God had other plans for me. I ended up working at a residential adolescent program, similar to the program I had graduated from. From that moment, I knew that it was my passion and my calling in life. I was able to share my life, testimony and my story with these young people. I was

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by Kyauta Gajere letting them know that there was a way that they could change their lives and could live a happy, productive and peaceful life; a life of serenity. I worked there over a period of 13 years. I started off as a part-time tech and after a couple of years I was promoted to operations manager. Eventually, I became a part of the treatment team. The treatment team was comprised of 7-8

professionals, counselors, therapists, a nurse and me.

We made decisions that we thought were best for each individual resident. It was a co-ed facility. I realized that my job was never physically hard; it was more mentally and emotionally difficult. The reason was because the 13 through 17 year old children all saw me as either a brother, a father or an uncle. With that, I felt an enormous amount of responsibility.

These kids were broken, they had lost trust in adults because adults had lied to them, abused them physically, mentally and sexually, the whole nine yards. These kids were starved and I knew the responsibility God had placed on me with these young kids.

The Vision. God gave me the vision to open Pathway to Serenity and work with me. I said, “Well I like working with kids God. Men are hard headed, their stubborn, their set in their ways.” God said, “Your story about what I brought you through will give you the ability to touch and have an impact on these men lives and they can be back in

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these young people lives, where they don’t end up in a half-way house.” Around 2005, I was at a TD Jakes’, Man Power Conference, when I got this vision. I came home and I was on fire. I went back to work and was so consumed in my work that I ran from God. We were on vacation in Washington D.C. when God spoke to me again and said, “Its time.” I was like, okay. When we got back to the hotel, I told my wife, God spoke to me again. He said it’s time. I was really convicted this time and there wasn’t any more running so when we got back I started looking for real estate. I called my niece, who is a realtor, and I told her what I was looking for. What I‘ve learned in this profession is most recovering addicts, once on the road to recovery don’t have the willingness to do certain things like they did when they were on drugs or alcohol.

Most addicts will walk to one end of town and into another to seek their drug. When they get to recovery they don’t have that same zeal or that same willingness. Things have to be made available and ready for them, like a bus stop a block away would be really convenient for them so they won’t complain. I found this place off Crosstimbers and Toliver. We went to look at the house and I said, “Oh this is perfect”. The bus stop is near the front porch, the store is around the corner and I had the amount of rooms that I wanted. It was also about 6 blocks from the local 12 step meeting facility. I told my niece I wanted it. I asked her to find out how much they wanted and to make a cash offer. She called me back a n d told m e t h e house w a s going to be auctioned. I told her, “I still need to find a house, let’s keep looking.” About a month later she called, and said I should turn on my computer because they were auctioning off the house and it was being marketed online within the 50 states.

There were a lot of investors also looking at this property. I understood the process and registered to start bidding. My niece called the next day and said, ”You know your max, why don’t you just blow them out of the water?” At that point, there was maybe an hour left for bidding before the closing. I submitted my max, $25,000 and I won!

What God revealed to me was what He has for me is for me; no matter who else desires it. I wanted a transitional living facility because in a transitional living facility they can transition from one place to the other with ease.

Passion and Impact. I received my license and multiple contracts and we’ve been working in men’s lives daily. I have fulfilled my passion for the past three years.

One of the kids had such an amazing impact on me; he was like a son to me. When he was at the facility, I took him to set up his first checking account and purchase his first car.

I also taught him how to tie a tie and helped with his interviewing skills to get a job. He got that job but was later killed in a car wreck.

Losing him motivated me even more and was one of the many driving factors to opening Pathways. His dad was an active user and was never there for him. I was the only father figure he had ever known. I still keep in touch with his grandmother and I dedicated the facility to him. His name was Phyllis Brandon Green. There was another young lady that completed the program successfully. She enrolled in college, made the Dean’s list, and now works for Bank of America. Normally the primary counselors at the facility present the diplomas; however, she wanted me to present her diploma because she said that I helped her more than anyone else. Our relationship, since then, has been wonderful.

She invited me to her graduation at Lamar University. She said, “Mr. Rodney, none of this would have been possible if it was not for you.” I told her, “As much as I would love to take the credit, it was God, it wasn’t me.

God put you in my life and you trusted me and look at the results.” There are hundreds of success stories. I will never forget this one young lady that came through our program.

She stayed in the program for over a year.

Right before she got ready to graduate, her name came up when we realized someone

was using drugs on the facility grounds, which is not permitted and is a cardinal rule.

A group of us got together and decided she was going to have to be discharged or start the program all over again. I remember talking to her in my office and she said, “Mr. Rodney, I didn’t do it, I wasn’t a part of it.” I told her that I believed her but she would have to start the program over again.

I wanted her to prove to us that we were wrong. She was hurt and lost a lot of trust in us as mentors, adults, professionals, but she stayed and she graduated. For a long time she had some resentment towards the program and the facility but we always kept in touch. A couple of years after later, she called stating that she was struggling with sobriety. She started drinking so I got her into another program that I knew about.

Many times there are things that occur and most alcoholics self-medicate to numb that feeling. She started doing well after a while, but then her mother called and asked if I was sitting down. Anytime a conversation starts like that, I don’t like it. She told me that they found her dead in her bed and I freaked… literally. That is when I felt like it was getting too hard and I could not handle it. This was not what I bought into. Before the funeral service I was in denial. I did not believe it until I saw her. She had everything in the world to live for. She had 2 beautiful kids and when we talked everything was going well. I guess the pressure of life and everything else she was dealing with caused her to take her life.

I wondered what a 20 year old would face that was so heavy. This experience also just fueled the desire to open Pathway.

which helped with the whole process. A good friend of mine that I met while we were at treatment together in 1997 knew of my vision to open my own treatment center/ program. He initiated a lot of programs and now is my program director.

God had already placed all the people in place before I received the vision. When we first opened up, I remember our first client. I was so grateful for what God had done for me, my wife, and pathway.

My wife and I just celebrated 20 year and if you were to ask her in 1990 what job she would be doing in 2012, the answer would not have been a drug counselor. My wife comes from the mortgage banking business with over 20 years of experience. When we first met she did not know that I had a substance abuse problem. I hid things very well. I have been sober now for 15 years and she found her true calling as a drug counselor.

“Mr. Hunt, this isn’t mission difficult, its mission impossible.

Difficult should be a walk in the park for you.”

(Mission Impossible II, 2000) The call to walk as more than conquers (Romans 8:37), in places where we are sheep amongst wolves (Matthew 10:16), is not difficult because with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

God has designed each individual with purpose. His plans for us outweigh the scope and understanding our finite thoughts can begin to grasp. He has called us to great and wonderful things if only we listen, obey, and align ourselves with Him. He has strategy; He gives wisdom and He will equip us with what is essential to

Provision for the Purpose. I tell finish our task. God has a specific mission people all the time, God does not give you for you…have you chosen, like Rodney a vision without provision and He also gives Owens, to accept it? us the needed resources. When I got ready to get my state license, the person that “...With God performed the inspections worked with me at the Odyssey house for about 5 to 6 years. All Things are Possible” (Matthew 19:26).

She knew of my integrity and character Ad spaces Available

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A Word From The Publisher “In Genesis 3:1-3, that serpent of old tempted Eve with the same tactics he tempted Jesus with in His day. He may have changed partners, but he is still using the same old tricks.

In Matt 4:3,4 Satan tempted Jesus by leading Him into the wilderness after he had fasted 40 days. In like manner Satan tempted Jesus and Eve, he will also tempt you. Satan did so through the physical appetite, personal gain, and to receive power and glory.” GB Commentary

\\ For It Is Written //

“J

esus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship your God, and Him only you shall serve (Matt. 4:10 nkjv).”

Matthew shares an all too familiar story of Jesus being tempted

by Satan, which all of us can relate. He also showed us how Jesus triumphs over Satan’s tricks. Although there are many things we can take from Matt 4:8, the one thing I suggest we take and apply to our daily lives is Jesus’ quote, “For It Is Written.” Jesus showed us how we too can overcome the tricks of the enemy. This is where our faith must increase in order for Satan to flee! When were facing difficult times in our lives, oftentimes, we tend to worry, and worrying oftentimes leads to bad decisions, which can take us out of the will of God. In Matthew 4:3 the

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the temptations of this world, especially knowing that God tempts no man. Jesus defeated Satan by quoting four Profound words, “For it is written.” When we start to increase our faith Satan will come in and plant doubt by manipulating a situation to mislead you or He knows what’s going on in our lives and the minute we lose sight of God and replace it with doubt, here comes Satan.

Selah (He that have an ear...)

“The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace.” I encourage you my brothers and sisters to remember the words Jesus spoke and watch the devil flee. Also, keep in mind that although Satan may flee he will return, so while he’s away eat on the Word.

bible calls Satan the temper. After Jesus fasted 40 days and 40 nights he was led into the wilderness. Satan appeared to Jesus in three areas, 1.) The physical appetite, by telling Jesus to make those stones bread (Matt 4:3), 2.) The desires for personal gain or popularity, “If You are the Son of God,” Satan said in Matt 4: 6, and 3.) An easy path through power and glory (Matt 4: 8,9). He wanted Jesus to worship him in order that he might grant Him all the kingdoms; Apparently Satan didn’t know that Jesus’ Kingdom is greater than his and that one day his earthly kingdom shall will be destroyed.

We must know that Satan’s kingdom is temporary, so that we will not be tempted and compromise the Word of God. Satan is very subtle Oh, Taste and see how good the in his tricks, but Jesus set an great Word is! example as to how we should handle

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Elizabeth Jackson, Publisher

The Matter of Dysfunctional Behavior By Dr. Paul D. Landrew Photo by Ferrell’s Photography

As bad as this behavior is in the normal run of business and operations, it is worse when the business is working to implement change which is intended to bring about improvement and growth. Dysfunctional behavior serves to rob the organization of valuable energy and creativity during the time it is needed most. It is important that those who are unable to function in boundaries of change and growth must be identified, reassigned or removed for the good of the organization.

When an initiative is begun to bring new operational elements into an organization there will always be behavioral implications. The swift and savvy leader will recognize some contributing factors and work to mitigate as best he or she can these factors in order that they might achieve the desired outcomes from their efforts.

Churches and ministries while we like to identify ourselves as “organisms” must accept the fact that we have “organization” for the “organism”.

Yes we are living and breathing, but we must also understand that we are likened unto a body with has functional structure and organization. When you as a ministry leader or a leader in your organization are tapped to bring about change to the group, you will do well to be aware of some causes of dysfunctional behavior.

O

ne of the greatest challenges of leadership is to be confronted with dysfunctional behavior. Dysfunctional behavior is behavior that runs in opposition to the expected norm of an organization. Whether that organization is a family, business, church, school or other enterprise, there can be dire consequences when it is plagued by dysfunctional behavior.

Simply stated, five major causes of dysfunctional behavior are:

perspectives of those who are ultimately affected by it.

1. New systems and approaches require department, group and people boundaries to be redefined. People may have to move or be given expanded roles and responsibilities or have duties taken away.

Although the change may bring greater effectiveness resistance can be experienced simply because the status quo is being upset.

5. The method of introduction.

Exactly HOW is this change or new initiative being introduced and implemented.

2. There is an effect on the “informal” structure. The informal structure of an organization is the system of values, ethical codes, taboos and special working relationships. Anything that seems to undermine or change the “informal” structure can be viewed as too intrusive.

3. Some of the older or more tenured people in the organization see change as threatening. There can be a strong belief that the system will replace them.

4. The implementers of change can do so without due consideration given to the opinions, fears, anxieties or

What Does The Dysfunctional Behavior Look Like?

1. Aggression – an attack (physical or non-physical) against the object believed to be causing the problem.

2. Projection – when people blame something or someone for their own shortcomings.

3. Avoidance – People withdraw from a situation because it is too frustrating for them.

Being equipped to identify this behavior and being able to effectively deal with it will certainly put you as leader in front of the pack in your organization. The ability to deal with dysfunctional behavior points to the fact that you not only have insight but influence. You will be seen as one who can put the good of the team and the organization above the seeming selfish need of the one or the few. Take some time and identify the dysfunctional behavior around you and then go to work getting it corrected.

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\\ Prayer of Salvation: JUST BELIEVE! // Romans 10:9,10

You Can Receive Jesus Christ Right Now by Faith - Through Prayer:

"He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. Matt. 28:6

“Lord Jesus, I need You to come into my life. I thank You for dying on the cross for my sins, and arose from the dead. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving me of my sins and giving me eternal life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.”

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Now That You Have Received Christ!

The moment that you received Christ by faith, as an act of will, many things happened, including the following:

1. Christ came into your life. Rev. 3:20 and Colossians 1:27

2. Your sins were forgiven. Colossians 1:14

3. You become a child of God. John 1:12

4. You received eternal life. John 5:24

5. You begin the great adventure for which God created you.

John 10:10; II Corinthians 5:17; I Thessalonians 5:18 Can you think of anything more wonderful that could happen to you than receiving Christ?

“As soon as you can find a Bible believing and Bible teaching Church so that you can begin to hear and study the Word of God. Remember, Faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” Paul D. Landrew

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AFTER YOU PRAYED THE PRAYER OF SALVATION BELOW ARE SOME SUGGESTED CHURCHES YOU MAY CONSIDER GOING TO FOR MORE BIBLE BASED TEACHING AND GUIDANCE IN THE WORD OF GOD. Pastor Paul D. Landrew Loving Word Fellowship Church 170 Rittenhouse Houston, TX 77076 501 Murphy Rd. Stafford, Tx 77477

Pastor Henry Thomas True Fellowship Baptist Church 3115 N. Fry Katy, TX 77449

Pastor Bennett T. Cortez Greater Faith Baptist Church 9235 West Montgomery rd.

Houston, TX 77088

Pastor Raynard Hillis Christian Community Fellowship 790 West LittleYork Houston, TX 77088

Pastor John Aldoph Antioch Missionary Baptist Church 3920 West Cardinal Drive Beaumont, TX 77705

Pastor Demetrius Moffett First Church of God 911 Main Street Orange, TX 77630

Pastor Roland Booker Just Church Ministry 13547 Bammel North Houston Houston, Tx 77066

Pastor Melvin H. Kirks Jr. Bridge Crossroad Church 12515 Fondren Ste. F Houston, TX. 77035

Pastor Byron Jackson Sr. Spring Chapel CME Church 23486 FM Rd. 838 Overton, TX 75684

Pastor Charles Tompkins New Prairie View Baptist Church 4303 Seaky Rd. San Felipe TX 77473

Pastor Andy Woods Sugar Land Bible Church 401 Matlage Way Sugar Land TX, 77478 What The Bible Says About Our Greatest Salvation “Christ took our punishment and died in our place. Since our attempts at righteousness will not satisfy God, Christ clothed us in His righteousness in such away that when God, the Father, looks upon us, He does not see our sin; He sees only the righteousness of His Son, Jesus Christ.” L. Moyer Hebrews 2:1-4 -“What has been the greatest moment of your life? For some people, the answer might be their wedding day, the birth of a child, or an important promotion. But for believers, the best experience is salvation, when their eternal destiny was changed. New Christians often have a fervor to share their faith. In time, however, many find their hearts cooling as they focus less on their relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Hebrews 2:1 instructs, “Therefore we must give the most earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.” Salvation is God’s amazing solution to man’s sinful condition: it is His gift of rescue - through the death of Jesus- from the penalty of our transgressions.” Charles Stanley

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Sharon Baker: Founder of Prettiest Pearls

Above: This Is Where It Began! Prettiest Pearls Board Meeting

A. Prettiest Pearls was established to give all school aged girls the opportunity to develop self-esteem and create a healthy & successful life while dealing with the challenges of adolescence. We want to prepare the girls for independence by teaching them Christ-centered ways to achieve their goals and dreams.

Q. What was the catalyst that motivated you to begin this organization/ministry?

A. Proper planning prevents poor performance!

While working as the facilitator of Young Ladies for Christ, I learned early failing to prepare the girls would result in preparing them to fail. One issue that needed to be addressed was that many girls did not view themselves as the precious gift God said they were. They desperately needed to know and hear that they were valued as an original by God. He loves us so much that He created us in His own image. Self-esteem is not a lesson you teach; it is a quality you nurture.

In order to nurture, you must make time. Time is the sacrifice that must be paid, it can be paid now or it can be paid later. It is my prayer that every Prettiest Pearl girl will be so immersed in the word of God that they will demonstrate

2012 Prettiest Pearls Conference:Speaker- 2nd-left: Demika Z Godfrey L-Dietra Madison, 3R-Freda Robertson and Right- Sharon Baker

opportunity. Q. How long has Prettiest Pearls been in existence?

Q. What is the primary purpose for this A. Prettiest Pearls was officially founded in 2010. organization/ministry?

God’s

Q. What is the vision of Prettiest Pearls?

left: Photo by Liz Jackson

Prettiest Pearls //

love

at

every

A. The primary purpose is to teach young girls how to achieve positive results from all challenges. Prettiest Pearls are taught practical application skills accompanied with faith-based empowerment. The girls of Prettiest Pearls have Potential. The girls of Prettiest Pearls have Endurance. The girls of Prettiest Pearls are Available for growth in all areas. The girls of Prettiest Pearls promote Reliability because her word is her bond. The girls of Prettiest Pearls show Love because it is the greatest gift. The girls of Prettiest Pearls display her SelfWorth because she was created by the original maker.

Q. What are 5 short term goals you have set for Prettiest Pearls?

A. Prettiest Pearls Inc. is anticipating an active year with our girls. A few of our short term goals include the following: * Prettiest Pearls Conference 2013 * Prettiest Pearls online Book Club * Prettiest Pearls Scholarship Foundation * Prettiest Pearls Purse Drive for girls’ shelter * Black College Tour

Q. What was the greatest impact Prettiest Q. How can a person donate or volunteer for Prettiest Pearls?

Pearls had on its members?

A. The Prettiest Pearls conference has been our greatest impact. It is a phenomenal experience used to set the necessary tone in laying a firm foundation based on God’s Word and what He says about young ladies.

“You have to know who you are before you can be the BEST YOU, you can be.”

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A. Prettiest Pearls Inc. is a 501(C) 3 organization. If anyone is interested in donating time, resources, or money to any one of our causes or our overall mission, visit us at www.prettiestpearls.com or mail to: Prettiest Pearls, 13940 Bammel North Houston, Suite 224 Houston, TX 77066.

Photo by Liz Jackson

2012 Black College Tour: Top: The Conference: Right: The Bus Trip Bottom: The College- Clark Atlanta University

S

haron Baker is the founder and executive director of Prettiest Pearls organization.

She is the wife of Rodney Baker and the mother of three beautiful children. She has been employed with Continental Airlines for 25 years. Her church affiliation is St. Stephen Baptist Church under the leadership of Paul D. Landrew, Senior Pastor / Teacher.

Sharon is the proud facilitator of the “Young Ladies for Christ” for 16 years and has the unique ability to connect to girls from all walks of life. Her point of passion is to help all school age girls develop their self-esteem and self-worth.

She encourages them to access the tools necessary to acknowledge the transformation that will help them realize their full potential. Unless knowledge, experience, wisdom and information is shared, they fall short of their intended purpose. Sharon states “our girls are our most natural resource, they are our future.” She whole-heartedly feels that the strongest evidence of love is sacrfice. The Prettiest Pearls an organization that is designed to assist young ladies to enhance and enrich their lives. The primary goal is to achieve positive results from any challenges or situations that may arise in their life. We strongly believe that 90% of how you react to adversity will determine the success of the outcome. Prettiest Pearls implements the fact, “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”, in every area of their existence. Girls are taught skills that are used with practical application with a faith based empowerment.

Prettiest Pearls have Potential.

Prettiest Pearls have Endurance.

Prettiest Pearls are Available for growth in all areas.

Prettiest Pearls promotes Reliability because her word is her bond.

Prettiest Pearls shows Love because it is the greatest gift.

Prettiest Pearls displays her Self-worth because she was created by the original maker.

Above: Prettiest Pearls 2012 Black College Tour-Howard University in D.C.

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A Portrait of Enduring Strength

By Cassie Landrew, First Lady

“I

Cassie Landrew, First Lady

t’s okay honey, Mommy’s here.”

Like food to a hungry child, ointment on a painful injury, or water to a drought-ridden crop, these words are like magic to a sick child. Whether a son or daughter is described as a daddy’s girl, a daddy’s boy, or even a mama’s boy, the fact remains - when a child gets sick, he or she only wants Mama! Although fathers are taking on the primary role of parent and caretaker for their children now more than ever, the impetus still falls on mothers as the primary source of enduring strength and source of emotional security for their children. Mothers leave a permanent imprint on us and teach invaluable lessons that remain with us for a lifetime.

Specific experiences from our childhood have made lasting impressions upon us. As we encounter modern conflicts, stresses, life-changing choices, etc., we indelibly think back to a time when our moms taught us valuable lessons that apply to so many of our current situations.

regard from God. Consequently, Jesus had poignant words for people who prayed such prayers in the church. His instructions found in Matthew 6:5-8 states, “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. …

But you, when you pray, … do not use vain repetitions as the Heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be Like them… “ Prayer that is taught by example and that develops perseverance and endurance over time are precursors to ultimately teaching them to “survive in order to thrive.” In the words of Reverend Jakes, “Whoever you are and whatever your heritage is…study it and treasure it. Know the strengths and weaknesses of your people…, for those things belong to you.”

The role of a mother is priceless.

The myriad roles and responsibilities she is able to maneuver and manage, the ups and downs of life’s setbacks, the losses and lack, the trials and triumphs, all make her a “rock of ages” that just keep going on and enduring until the end. These characteristic traits must be passed on by strong, Christian mothers to their children as a prayer legacy that perseveres and endures, as well as a desire and hunger to survive in order to thrive. Our mothers imprint as a portrait of enduring strength will remain with us for a lifetime.

While reading Reverend T.D. Jakes’ book Mama Made the Difference: Life Lessons My Mother Taught Me, I’m reminded of so many lessons that I learned as a young girl growing up. Every childhood lesson learned is encapsulated within the pages of such a powerful and reflective source.

Reverend Jakes eloquently dispenses a broad range of lessons that forces us to reminisce. One of the most powerful is that Christian mothers teach us how to pray. In order to pray a prayer that moves God to change things in our lives, we must first be exposed to powerful, fervent, movable prayers ourselves. James 5:16 states, “The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” God wants a prayer from the heart – a real, deep prayer from those who are aware of our desperate need for Him in our lives. For example, a major terminal illness such as a life-threatening medical diagnosis for a child, or terminal illness for a loved one requires prayer that is relentless, intense, urgent, unceasing, passionate, and desperate. A fearless resolve to stop at nothing is what it takes. Prayers that are HAPPY MOTHERS DAY! uttered to impress others will get little

12 www.issuu.com/mbracingbeautymagazine

Honoring OUR Mothers: HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. Ex. 20:12

Cassie Landrew, First Lady

Alberta Landrew

Janet Jackson, First Lady

Mother Ruth Cortez

Elizabeth Jackson

Gladys Phelps

Mildred Gregory

Michelle Obama, First Lady

Betty Carter, First Lady

Beulah Davis, First Lady

Laura Thompson

Bettie Banks

Shirley Schell

Abigail Pitre

Mary Elizabeth

Williemae Kirks, First Lady

Naomi Hughes

Saphonia Jones

Delisha Booker, First Lady

Enola Cossey

Raychelle Hatchett, Jamarsha Hill, Evelyn Jackson, Jackie Jackson, Pamela Survillion, Margie Collins, Annie Price, Toshia Beal, Yvette Cossey, Bobbie Creeks, Sharon Baker, Victoria Scott, Krishonda Potts, Dee Franklin, Renita Taylor, Mary Sampy, Debra Youngblood, Rose Bener, Sis. Katherine, Vivian Sneed, Enola Cossey, Ingrid Calhoun, Dietra Madison, Patricia Love, Patricia Brock, Toni Faust, Angie Hillsman, Bridgette Smith, Nikki Sweat, Neekeita Singleton, Roberta Parker, Carla, Kimmie Laday, Mindora Johnson, Cynthia Conley, Latisha Coxx Bonnie Norris, Angela Cooper, Jackie Collins, Alyce Collins, Jackie Mullins, Sabrina Collins, Cynthia Davis, Teesha Jones, Aisa Jones, Sandra Bonner, Jasmine Breedlove, Ashley Seawright, Darice Breedlove, Virgina Curl, Yalonda Chamber, Rolanda Crawford, Vickie Cortez, Mrs. Ethel, Wavely Grant, Darlene Ratcliff, Jamerian Hatchett, Vickie Jackson, Mary Hatchett, K’Ora Hill, Tonya Jenkins, Marteba Johnson, Cora Jones, Lavondia Menephee, Uletha Norris, Ruth Mayon-Cortez, Beverly Myles, Tonja Pyles, Ayahanna Norris, Oshia Campbell, Mary Simmons,AnnieAllen, MeMe Brown, Sandra Faust, Mary Hatchett, Sharnelle Jones, Denetra Upton, Demetria Parker, Tonie McClammy, Jennifer Theus, Nathlia Clayton, Alfretta Hicks, Dena Clayton, Toni Parker, Neisha Cortez, Erica Cortez, Dominique Sneeze, Regina Walker, Kimmie Laday

Happy Mother’s Day To All The Mothers In The World!

God Bless all the mothers who name did not appear on this page!

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M’Bracing Beauty Christian Magazine | Puzzle

BOOKS of THE BIBLE Can you find 30 books of the Bible in this paragraph?

“This is a most remarkable puzzle. It was found in an airplane seat pocket by a gentleman on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied for hours. He enjoyed it so much that he passed it on to some friends. One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his Johnboat. Another friend studied it while playing his banjo. Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper column. Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involved she brews a cup of tea to help her nerves.

There will be some names that are really easy to spot. That’s a fact. Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam especially since the book names are not necessarily capitalized. Truthfully, from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a minister or scholar to see some of them at the worst. Research has shown that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in this paragraph. During a recent fund raising event, which featured this puzzle, the alpha Delta Phi lemonade booth set a new sales record.

The local paper, the Chronicle, surveyed over 200 patrons who reported that this puzzle was the most difficult they had ever seen. As Daniel Humana humbly puts it, “The books are right there in plain view, hidden from sight,” those able to find all of them hear great lamentations from those who have to be shown. One revelation that may help is that the books like Timothy and Samuel may occur without their numbers. Also keep in mind that the punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal. A chipper attitude helps you compete really well against those who claim to know the answers. Remember, there is no need for a mass exodus; there really are 30 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in this paragraph.” unknown 1. 2. 3. 4. 5

6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

11. 12. 13. 14. 15 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

21. 22. 23. 24. 25.

26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

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Global Ministry SALVATION

DISCIPLESHIP

Photo: lib.utexas.edu

Photo: courtesy of searchquotes.com

FAITH

Martin Luther King Jr.

Heb. 11:1-3

Rom.10: 9,10

Matt. 28:18-20

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“I just want to do God’s will. And he’s allowed me to go to the mountain. And I’ve looked over, and I’ve seen the promised land! I may not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight that we as a people will get to the promised land.”

“To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Martin Luther King

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