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scripture page
My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love doesn’t know the first thing about God, because God is love – so you can’t know him if you don’t love. This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about – not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they’ve done to our relationship with God. 11-12 My dear, dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us – perfect love! 13-16 This is how we know we’re living steadily and deeply in him, and he in us: He’s given us life from his life, from his very own Spirit. Also, we’ve seen for ourselves and continue to state openly that the Father sent his Son as Savior of the world. Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we’ve embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God. 7-10
TO LOVE, TO BE LOVED
God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day – our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life – fear of death, fear of judgment – is one not yet fully formed in love. 19 We, though, are going to love – love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first. 20-21 If anyone boasts, “I love God,” and goes right on hating his brother or sister, thinking nothing of it, he is a liar. If he won’t love the person he can see, how can he love the God he can’t see? The command we have from Christ is blunt: Loving God includes loving people. You’ve got to love both. 17-18
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Everyone has a dream and a calling. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi, MDiv, Episcopal Leader, Western Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church
Dr. Josiah Young, Professor of Systematic Theology Dr. Lorena M. Parrish, Associate Professor of Urban Ministries, Director, Community Engagement Institute/Center for Public Theology
(Center) Dr. Yolanda Norton, MDiv, MTS, Beyoncé Mass creator, Chair of Black Church Studies, San Francisco Theological Seminary.
Rev. Lamar P. McIntyre, MDiv, Senior Pastor, The Courts of Praise Christian Church
Jaleesa Hall, MDiv, Founder, Raising a Village Foundation Elliott Jones, MA, professional dancer
Jamice Holley, MDiv, Licensed Clinical Therapist & Minister
Dr. Lakisha Lockhart, MTS, Assistant Professor of Practical Theology, Chicago Theological Seminary
Dr. Beverly E. Mitchell, Professor of Historical Theology
Wesley Theological Seminary celebrates
Black History Month by lifting up the Beloved Community being built at Wesley. Our world-class Black faculty advances theological scholarship and models excellence for our students. Community Engagement Fellows follow their passions for ministry, and have started non-profit organizations to serve area youth while completing their master-level degrees. Our graduates leave Wesley prepared to follow their call to serve God’s people in many settings: as ministers in the local church, as academics, as professionals in other fields.
Prepare to follow your dream and build the Beloved Community at Wesley. Learn more at www.wesleyseminary.edu 75ND
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™
February 2021
on the cover: Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, Jr. Pastor Lenyar Robinson DreamLife Worship Center 4111 Deer Park Road Randallstown, MD 21133 www.dreamlifewc.com
Cover Story Kingdom Pivoting in a Pandemic
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Dr. Kenneth Robinson, Jr., Pastor of DreamLife Worship Center in Randallstown, MD, shares with us how to Pivot in a Pandemic during this global crisis. In his article Dr. Robinson explains the benefits of pivoting in a crisis and provides us with the tools for churches to keep afloat and leverage opportunities.
pg 12 Feature Article- Black History Month The Black Family: Representation, Identity, Diversity
Healthy Soul 14 PROPHETICALLY SPEAKING
20 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis
Pastor Rhoda Turner
Christian Resolves For A New Year
Do You See What God Sees?
16 MONTHLY MANNA
22 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Minister Carenda Deonne
Minister Tracey George
A Loving Home
Load Up On The Lord’s Love
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Healthy Mind
In Every Issue 18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam,
Be Intentional
Scripture Page........................................ 2
Healthy Body
Contributors............................................ 6 From the Editor....................................... 7
24 HEALTH MATTERS 26 BODY BASICS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Charles & Ursula Harris
Covid Vaccine Update
Fitness Is Better Together!
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Meet the Contributors For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Charles & Ursula Harris Rhoda Turner Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com PHOTO CREDITS Cover, photos pg 7,8,9 KFinch Photography kfinchphotography.com
Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. For more information contact 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Follow us on facebook and twitter at: facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine twitter @gracenglorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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JACKIE EPPS is co-founder and editor of Grace & Glory Magazine. Jackie's career in communications spans over 40 years in advertising sales, program sales, media planning and television production, working in radio for 11 years and shifting to television broadcasting in 1989. She also produces the Grace & Glory show, a faith-based television program that has been on the air for 18 years. DR. CARLA DEBNAM Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.
MIN. TRACEY GEORGE
Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church.
CHARLES HARRIS Charles Harris is the owner of Chizel It Transformation Fitness. Charles is a highly effective fitness expert with a passion for health and wellness. He is a certified fitness trainer with the America Fitness Association of America with over 20 years of experience, and a certified Yoga Teacher at YogaWorks in Pikesville, Maryland. He is the author of I’m Too Cute to Sweat, What’s Your Excuse For Not Working Out?, and It Takes 21 Days To Get Fit. He currently teaches his mega cardio workout class throughout the state of Maryland.
DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University.
MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration.
PASTOR RHODA TURNER Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ.
ARCHBISHOP RALPH L. DENNIS ( rldkfcm02@gmail.com ) is Presiding Prelate of Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Ministries, and Pastor-Emeritus of Kingdom Worship Center in Baltimore, MD. He is also President and Chancellor of Dominion Leadership University (DLU) that he founded in 1984 as Ministers in Training Program. He is a prolific writer and sought-after preacher and teacher.
from from the the editor editor Black History Month originated in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson as Negro History Week. The month of February was chosen in honor of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, who were both born in that month. It has been set aside to reflect upon the accomplishments and achievements as well as the struggles and tribulations of a race of people who ended up on the shores of America many centuries ago. For one entire month, schools, churches, museums, and the media will celebrate and honor African-Americans and their history in every walk of life. I believe everything we do is history. From day to day we are constantly making history whether we realize it or not. That is why it is so important to make each day of our lives count. At the end of the day we should be able to look back over the day and make note of what was accomplished. As the days turn into weeks, months and years, those years become the fabric of our lives. Woven into the fabric of our lives are our successes, accomplishments and struggles that all become part of our history. As African-Americans, it is our responsibility to know Black History. We should know who we are and where we come from. Take the time to teach your children, they should learn all there is to know about their heritage. Black History should start with the family. We can pass our history along from generation to generation within our own families. We can celebrate our individual families’ successes and triumphs and support them during their struggles. I believe it will teach our children selfconfidence, self-respect and most of all self-love. Many of us may only be able to trace back two or three generations,
but we need to make it a point to tell our children about their ancestors, and repeat it as often as possible. We may not ever find that link that connects every black person to their African roots, but we will discover that there is plenty of rich ‘Black History’ right in our own back yards. And last but certainly not least, we can teach our children that through God’s word we can trace and link ourselves to the root that brought forth our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For the word of God tells us in Roman 8:16-17, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.” This month’s issue is dedicated to the history of AfricanAmericans. It is very exciting to add a new chapter each year of our lives to this ever developing story. Stick your chest out and in the words of the late James Brown, “Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud!”
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cover article
Kingdom Pivoting in a Pandemic During this global crisis as the COVID-19 pandemic causes an unprecedented shift in the economic landscape, businesses are adapting and pivoting to survive. COVID-19 savaged the U.S. economy as 2020 was its worst performance in 74 years. In order to survive or thrive, businesses must pivot to maintain or increase revenues. Pivoting is to turn on, revolve or swing or rotate. Subsequently, it’s a time for creativity, for Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, Jr. being bold and decisive DreamLife Worship Center and for thinking outside Randallstown, MD the box. It’s also a time for businesses to use their skills and facilities to find gaps in the market; and then quickly fill them. In fact, pivoting can provide a platform for growth once the world starts to recover. Businesses that have pivoted to keep afloat are often those in the best position to leverage opportunities moving forward. This is very true also for churches and ministries who want to maintain and even grow in this pandemic. There must also be some pivoting in the kingdom of God in order to stay relative and effective in these times. Unfortunately, many churches are still operating in an old paradigm or wineskin, therefore are hindering the glory of God because they will not pivot. Consequently, many churches have closed down, not just because of size but because of an unwillingness to pivot.
Why is it necessary to pivot?
If you can no longer see a viable way to achieve growth, it is time to pivot. Sometimes a business or church just needs to
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exert more effort, and other times they need to evolve or change direction. It is very important for me to note here that a church is a business. Yes, it is first a spiritual organism, but it functions in the earth as an organization. This understanding is what sometimes separates the growing churches from the stagnant ones. -One specific connotation of the term "pivot" in this sense is that it is not just a "change of direction", but a "sudden, rapid change of direction and focus". Generally it implies that the company is essentially abandoning its previous efforts in order to make a concerted effort towards a new goal. Lessons may be learned from the old project, and parts may be salvaged and repurposed; but the original plan has been cast aside and everyone is working toward a new end. Whether it's exploring new markets, services or products, pivoting can help create opportunities to expand revenue. Pivoting toward new markets, services or products is a great way to build on the foundation a business already has, to expand revenue and bring more profit to the organization.
What does it mean to pivot?
It’s a way to describe fundamental changes young businesses often need to make in order to achieve their missions and visions. When costs or in this case, church revenue is down, it will require that you rethink how you staff, equip, and organize your business. Change is a natural and expected part of running a church. Even the scripture tells us that we are changing from glory to glory, going from faith to faith in the kingdom of God. Whether big or small, strategic pivots need to be carefully planned and well-timed. At our church, DreamLife Worship, we have made several pivots in the pandemic. Some were popular and others were painful, but each pivot empowered us to grow during the pandemic.
How do you know when your church is ready to evolve to its next phase?
Since we have established that the church is an organization, let’s look at some organizations that have pivoted over the years. What does Starbucks, Twitter and Nintendo all have in common? They’re all companies that pivoted their initial focus into something new, eventually becoming industry giants. Starbucks started out selling espresso machines, Twitter was a platform for finding podcasts, and Nintendo produced all sorts of different things (such as vacuum cleaners!). By changing focus, they were able to pivot into the successful companies we know today. Pivoting was first introduced by entrepreneur Eric Ries in 2009 and is defined by the Financial Times lexicon as a shift in strategy. Starbucks, Twitter and Nintendo are extreme cases, but in reality, pivoting exists on a
cover article sliding scale. Pivoting, large or small, is crucial for any entity, church or business for several reasons. Let’s look at a few…
In summary, pivoting is to turn on, revolve or swing or rotate. To evolve or change direction in what you’re assigned and called to do in a more profitable way. Pivoting 1. Everything is changing at a rapid pace, and the world of is not the Holy Spirit’s job in your life and ministry, but ours. church business is no exception. Sometimes the church has He is there to lead, remind and empower us once we surrender lost it relevancy in a community because she forgets that we our will. are called to minister to the everchanging needs of people in an “Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, The Holy One of everchanging culture. Israel: “I am the LORD your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go.” Isaiah 48:17 NKJV 2. Pivoting can create opportunities to expand revenue. Here’s another version of these same verses and more. Churches have found out that pivoting to virtual services “The holy God of Israel, the LORD who saves you, says: “I has actually increased their exposure. am the LORD your God, the one who Consequently, allowing them to grow in scope wants to teach you for your own good and in potential donors. and direct you in the way you should go. “If only you had listened to my 3. It’s easier to stay relevant. Some of the best commands! Then blessings would church ideas/realizations come after testing have flowed for you like a stream that different things. Ministry is all about trying never goes dry! Victory would have new things, moving forward, studying culture, come to you like the waves that roll on implementing the changes to meet community the shore. Your descendants would be needs and seeing results. Part of this process as numerous as grains of sand, and I involves making conclusions about what is would have made sure they were never truly working and what is not. This often destroyed.” Go out from Babylon, go requires church leaders to pivot. These choices free! Shout the news gladly; make it aren’t’t always easy (change rarely is) but are known everywhere: “The LORD has often better for the church in the long-run. saved his servant Israel!” When the LORD led his people through a hot, 4. It can reinvigorate the church. Pivoting is dry desert, they did not suffer from Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, Jr. a great way to bring new life to the business or thirst. He made water come from a and Pastor Lenyar Robinson church organization. All churches must evolve rock for them; he split the rock open, if they want to stay current with their culture. Becoming stagnant and water flowed out. “There is no safety for sinners,” says or irrelevant is one of the worst things that could happen to a the LORD.” Isaiah 48:17-22 GNB church, and one of the best ways to avoid this is through the Also, God will give us the foresight and insight, along with strategic use of pivoting. the creative ideas to pivot, so we can grow and prosper even in a pandemic. Look at what Solomon said about God’s wisdom 5. You Want To Make Your Church A Stronger within us. Proverbs 8:12 “I wisdom dwell with prudence, and Version Of Itself. The desire to take your church to new find out knowledge of witty inventions.” levels of ministry and profits requires change and adaptation. Major shifts on the demand side are also occurring in the It requires a break from routine and old habits. It will require kingdom of God for the growth and expansion of His will in a mindset shift with a full understanding of the importance the earth. We see many examples of innovation throughout of evolving. Ask yourself, “What is really going to change the Scriptures. They are not just limited to creating products, to become better?” Then, set your goal in the next quarter to but they also include creating a new breed of animals, major begin improving effectiveness and efficiency. At Dreamlife, building constructions, guidelines on how to successfully we made significant changes in our virtual and community approach life, medical procedures, and even how to bring outreach services. We invested in the highest level business change in the culture. Truly there is nothing new under the sun, internet services and upgraded media equipment to better our as Solomon told us in Ecclesiastes 1:9. presentation online for virtual services. Also, because of the increasing need for food and essentials of families, we partnered My prayer is that these innovations inspire you to be like your Father, the first Innovator. As you pivot, God will give with Maryland Food Bank to feed over 800 plus families this you new innovative ideas so you can grow your business or past year during the pandemic. Subsequently, we are a much church for greater kingdom impact. better ministry than before the pandemic because we pivoted.
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DreamLife Outreach
10 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
DreamLife Pakistan
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black history month When Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week in 1926, he realized the importance of providing a theme to focus the attention of the public. The intention has never been to dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience, but to bring to the public’s attention important developments that merit emphasis. Over the years, the themes reflect changes in how people of African descent in the United States have viewed themselves, the influence of social movements on racial ideologies, and the aspirations of the black community. The 1960s had a dramatic effect on the study and celebration of black history. Before the decade was over, Negro History Week would be well on its way to becoming Black History Month.
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prophetically propheticallyspeaking speaking
Christian Resolves for a New Year For Christians, the cheer of Christmas Day is not the thing itself, but our collective annual reminder that the thing itself actually happened and is just as true every day of the year, and every moment of the day, as it was two millennia ago. Christ came. God himself, in the person of his Son, dwelled among us, as Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis one of us, and then died, rose, and ascended. The cheer of Christmas is not a single calendar day in 365 that ends at midnight. The cheer of Christmas is a fixed, objective reality for the Christian, every bit as true today as yesterday. “The decisive event has happened in the coming of Christ, and work remains to be done, in us and through us.” And we are called to live on. History, and our lives in this age, is not yet over. The decisive event has happened in the coming of Christ, and work remains to be done, in us and through us. New days come. New years come. And God calls us to build our lives — years that have not yet unfolded — on the cheer of Christmas; to bring that great unchangeable Christmas past into the present and live a different future because of it. For such a week as ours is a simple and obscure New Testament blessing that marries the cheer of Christmas behind us with a catalyst for action in the days ahead of us. It is an easy blessing to overlook since it’s tucked into the middle of the epistle, instead of appearing at the end. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. (2 Thessalonians 2:16–17) Observe here how decisive divine action in the past fuels the engine 14 February 2021 | Grace&Glory 14 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
of the present to energize new life — our lives — and produce fresh strength for the times to come. The Father Loved and Gave While the blessing bleeds into the future — for life yet to be lived — Paul can’t help but rehearse what God has already accomplished in the past. The divine genius of Christianity, which sets it off from every other so-called religion, doesn’t begin with “to-dos,” with the onus on us to perform, but with the great, unchangeable “dones” of the past. For Christians, the past is not just the past. The past, as it reveals the God who is, is power for the present, as he is present. Paul has something particular to pray that “our Lord Jesus Christ himself” will do for us in the present, but he wants us to know that Christ won’t be going rogue to do it. He and his Father are working in concert, and in mentioning “God our Father,” Paul rehearses what is done, finished, accomplished, and unalterable: he “loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace.” Your right standing with God isn’t owing to your doing, but his. Long before he called you to anything, he loved you and demonstrated it in history, almost two thousand years before you were born. “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). There is a priceless doneness to the Christian faith. “By a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14). From the cross, Jesus declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30). On his finished work, we come into relationship with God by faith alone, not by any action on our part. Eternal Cheer, Solid Hope Paul mentions here two “dones” in particular that are ours in Christ: eternal cheer (“comfort,” Greek paraklēsin) and good hope. The cheer that is ours, by grace, in Christ, is not fleeting. It is not temporal, thin, or cheap, but real, strong, never-ending, eternal. Its source is not in us, fickle as we are, but secure, outside of us, in Christ himself, who is not fickle but resiliently faithful.
“For Christians, the past is not just the past. The past, as it reveals the God who is, is power for the present.” And the hope that is ours, by grace, in Christ, is not a hope that goes bad, or might prove untrue. It is solid hope, good hope — hope that God will make good on. In a world teeming with thin, empty, deceptive, bad hopes, this one is good. It will not disappoint. So, first, Paul accents the action of the Father, action that is nonetheless together with and in and through his Son. He loved. He gave. And these past graces have clear present implications. Jesus Cheers and Strengthens Paul then prays for Christ’s present action, not yet ours. We will get there, but don’t put yourself forward too quickly. Stand back and let the Godhead lead. Just as both Christ and the Father acted in the past, but the previous accent was on the Father, so now, in the present, they work in concert with the accent on the Son. Now may Christ himself, Paul prays, cheer your hearts and strengthen them. Christ’s cheering of our hearts is not only done, accomplished in the past. It is present. He is doing this now for his people. He does it today. He will do it tomorrow. Jesus loves to cheer our hearts. And, get this, he doesn’t just make us happy — wonderful as that would be — and leave us weak. He cheers and strengthens (“establishes,” Greek stērizai). He makes our hearts strong, meaning ready to act. This is a remarkable prayer: that Christ himself would instill us with cheer and strength. Christ himself supplies the power for us to feel and resolve and do what God has called us to do. Christ himself as strengthener — strange at it may sound to some ears — is actually a well-worn refrain for the apostle Paul. “I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord” (1 Timothy 1:12). Jesus gave him strength, he says. And he testifies that when he stood alone, “the Lord stood by me and strengthened me” (2 Timothy 4:17). So Paul says to Timothy, “Be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:1), and to us all, “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might” (Ephesians 6:10). And of course, Paul declares so memorably in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through [Christ] who strengthens me.” The apostle even speaks of his own toiling “with all his energy that [Christ] powerfully works within me” (Colossians 1:29). The risen, reigning God-man himself provides energy for his people to do what he’s called them to do. He sits enthroned at his Father’s right hand, and he is not inactive. He stands ready to cheer your soul and strengthen your body. And now to what end? So, now we have two comforts — two cheers. The eternal cheer we have been given in Christ by the Father. And now a present cheer in Christ from Christ himself. And now, finally, our action, our part,
our calling, our resolves: “in every good work and word.” Work Like a Believer The past and present actions of Christ and his Father make for an amazing recipe for a Christian work ethic for the New Year. Divine grace forms the foundation and provides the power by which we now act, in faith, through words with our mouths, and works with our hands and feet. Buoyed and fed by such grace, we “let our light shine before others, so that they may see our good works and give glory to our Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). We might call this the “Believer’s work ethic.” That term may be misunderstood by some to mean that Believers work hard because they view success as a sign that they are elect. That is a serious misunderstanding. Rather, the true “Believer’s work ethic,” if we’re going to refer to such, would be a label to put on the precise dynamics we have seen here: the previous and primary action of God in Christ, including present cheer and strength, leads to eager and energetic activity in his people, for the good of others. For Everyday Works and Words In other words, because we are justified before God by faith alone in Christ, we are secure enough to expend our lives in the cause of Christ. Heaven is secure. Now what? Let’s change things on earth. The finished work of Christ, and the completed aspect of our justification, liberates us for the ongoing work of sanctification and acts of love to serve others. Knowing ourselves secure in Christ, and empowered by his Spirit, unleashes us to speak good and do good in the world, rather than turn inward to constantly try to fix ourselves before God. “Heaven is secure. Now what? Let’s change things on earth.” Christianity, emphatically, does not make people lazy. Rather, it makes lazy people, at long last, into serious workers. The gospel, in the power of the Spirit, makes us increasingly “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14). Those who are saved in Christ “not because of works done by us in righteousness” (Titus 3:5) are finally freed, and divinely empowered, “to be ready for every good work” and to “devote themselves to good works” (Titus 3:1, 8, 14). May Christ himself make it so in this next year. May the Christmas behind us, true today as ever — in its certainty and cheer — send us hopefully, and energetically, into the unknowns of the year, and life, to come. ◆◆◆ Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis Dennis (rldkfcm02@gmail.com) is Presiding Prelate of Kingdom Fellowship Covenant Ministries, and Pastor-Emeritus of Kingdom Worship Center in Baltimore, MD. He is also President and Chancellor of Dominion Leadership University (DLU) that he founded in 1984 as Ministers in Training Program. He is a prolific writer and sought-after preacher and teacher. Though retired from pastoring, he yet spends much of his time seeking to improve the quality of life for the people of God, through training, equipping, empowering and mobilizing the saints.
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monthly manna
A Loving Home!
For those of you who may not know, I am a hopeless romantic. One of my favorite movies of all time is Love Jones! What a classic. I am also a firm believer that love is a healer. I was blessed to come from a very loving home. My parents were affectionate, supportive and compassionate. No matter what the world and others were doing to discourage me, I could always find love at home! I knew I would feel better once I got home. I knew that everything would be okay, once I turned the key. What does love look like in your home? When your family comes home, and when friends come and visit, can they find peace, support, trust and affection? Or is their unforgiveness, strife, stress and turmoil. Take inventory in this season of your life. It is so imperative that your home be a place of security and safety. Many of us may not be maximizing the love within our home because we are not communicating. Show love towards your family by talking not texting. I remember growing up we would all sit at the table together. We didn’t have to compete with our cell phones. I know you are important, but your family is more important. Love one another to set boundaries and create that family time. Another thing you can do to create a loving home environment is remember and meditate on what the bible teaches about love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 states: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not selfseeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.” We will experience disappointment in our lives, but be encouraged that love never fails. Also, remember there are at least four things that love itself is committed to. It will always protect, trust, hope and persevere. These are four love principles that are sustainable for the foundation of your abode. It’s not about how big your house is. It’s not about how many rooms it has. It’s about can love be found there; can trust, protection, hope and perseverance be found there? I encourage you to fill your home with love! Maximize the greatness of love in your home like never before. I get joy when people come and visit me and they can rest comfortable! That confirms that love is a settling force of comfort, peace and tranquility. Take inventory this month and let go of anything that would cause a crack in your home’s foundation. Please don’t allow the enemy to bring division, kayos and confusion. The bigger the house does not mean the greater the love! I pray that the love within your home, big or small, remain prosperous, Min. Carenda Deonne never lacking www.carendadeonne.com in its power 888-473-2221or admin@carendadeonne.com purpose. Live life on the promise of IMPACT!
16 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
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to your good health We have seen a lot over the last few months that have been troubling and disturbing. Our relationships, country and jobs are all in flux. We are searching for peace, purpose, meaning and hope in this season of uncertainty. Even though we have ushered in new government leadership, the vaccine is being distributed and the winds of change are in the air, we must take time to look within to determine what is next. This is the time to reflect on our present with an eye toward our future. We must begin to explore the options that before last year seemed impossible or out of reach. This is the time to look forward with hope and focus. Now is the time to be intentional. Being intentional is necessary because life is coming at us fast and time can slip by us. This is especially true when we do not explore our options, make plans or at least dream about the future. These are times of unprecedented change and it is pulling on us in many ways. Procrastination is not always an option or our friend when decisions and
opportunities can be time sensitive. That is why we must be deliberate in our actions in order to insure we participate in the building of a new future. Ecclesiastes 3 tells us, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.” We can count on God’s timing to help in realizing our goals but we must also be active in using our gifts, talents, and skills to prepare us when timing meets purpose. Seeing your vision come to pass is possible but you must stay focused and walk in faith. Continue to renew your mind through the word of God,
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staying connected to community and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We must be particular with our preferences and make sure they are in agreement with our vision. Time waits for no one and we have witnessed that personally and as a community. Be selective, be choosy, be picky, be creative, be hopeful but also be intentional. We know for Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, certain that Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Renaissance God is. CounselingChristian Center
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woman’s perspective
Do You See What God Sees? When a glass filled to the middle with water is set on a table there will be some that see the glass as half empty while others will see the glass as half full. However, the amount of liquid in the glass is seen by the individual, the fact remains that it is still a drinkable liquid. It is still something to work with. This pandemic hit and it hit hard. While some are looking at this situation through the lens of seeing what can be done to make their situation better others are looking through a different lens; one that lends to self-pity and ways to drown in their sorrows. What type of person will you be? Which lens have you chosen to view your current circumstances through? We were all made in His image and likeness, but how many of us really trust God in all things (including a pandemic)? Have you chosen to trust God like this "certain woman" found in II King 4:1-7? “A certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets cried out to Elisha, saying, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the LORD. And the creditor is coming to take my two sons to be his slaves.” So, Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?” And she said, “Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil.” Then he said, “Go, borrow vessels from everywhere, from all your neighbors—empty vessels; do not gather just a few. And when you have come in, you shall shut the door behind you and your sons; then pour it into all those vessels and set aside the full ones.” So, she went from him and shut the door behind her and her sons, who brought the vessels to her; and she poured it out. Now it came to pass, when the vessels were full, that she said to her son, “Bring me another vessel.” And he said to her, “There is not another vessel.” So, the oil ceased. Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest.” See, the woman in the parable was in debt and about to lose something that she cherished. She was about to lose her children because of her debts. Elijah gave her a Word and she made a conscious decision to abide by that Word given. Her obedience to the instructions in the Word saved her family. As we are clamoring back from this pandemic, we need to get on 20 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
our knees, pray, and see what God is telling us to do. Some of you can look in your house and see what your hands can create for the benefit of others. It is going to require you to have faith, trusting and believing that this too will pass. The Word of God gives us several parables where trusting God was needed, and because of this trust and faith God provided. With all the changes that the pandemic has caused, you can be tempted to look at what you don’t have anymore, at all the things that have been removed from your immediate presence. But don't focus on those things, look at what you do have left; what is remaining. God has the ability to add to it or breath on what is remaining causing it to multiply. We serve a God who is concerned and cares for each of his children. There isn’t anything He won’t give to us if we ask and believe. The amount of faith that is needed isn’t much at all. All that is needed is faith the size of mustard seed. I remember there was a time in my life not too long ago where I had to exercise my faith and trust God to supply my needs. I would look in the refrigerator and would pray over what I had, asking God to multiply it. I prayed that I would have more than enough. The next day came and I did the same thing. Giving thanks as I wondered what we were going to eat. I didn’t worry about the next day. I was just remaining thankful for the present day. I knew that God would do the same thing the next day. Every day He provided. He did it time and time again. My mother used to sing this song around the house when I was younger and I’m not sure who wrote it. But the song said, “Only believe, only believe all things are possible if you only believe. Only believe, only believe all things are possible if you only believe.” Instead of looking at your glass as half empty, try to look at what can be done with what’s inside of the glass, remaining thankful in the moment for what you Pastor Rhoda Turner have, knowing that you will come out Christian Faith Fellowship Church of your current situation victorious. Chandler, AZ You just have to trust and believe. www.cffaz.org
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trinkets to triumph
Load Up On The Lord's Love The Lord wants to load you up with His love! He does not need a special day or occasion to shower you with His love. He promises to daily load you with His benefits (Psalm 68:19). His benefits include demonstrating His love for you on a daily basis. Loading up on the Lord’s love is simply allowing Him to be everything you need Him to be in your life. When you let Him love you, He can fill every void in your life. Loading up on the Lord’s love gives Him the opportunity to show you that He is loyal to you, that He longs to fellowship with you, and the confidence that He wants to give you a life loaded with His goodness. Some people search high and low to find love to no avail. As a believer, you have the blessed assurance that you have all the love you need because God is love (1 John 4:8). Loading up on the Lord’s love lifts you up and boosts your confidence. You unapologetically live, move, and have your being in Him (Acts 17:28). His daily loads of love assure you that you can do everything that you desire because His love will illuminate the path for you. Loading up on the Lord’s love eliminates any fears that you may have and gives you the confidence that you are not alone because He is with you always (Matthew 28:20). God’s perfect love is able to cast out all of your fears (1 John 4:18). Loading up on the Lord’s love gives Him the opportunity to show His love for you by being your provider and protector. His love ensures that you lack 22 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
no good thing (Psalm 34:10). The Lord’s love not only provides for your needs but also gives you the desires of your heart when you delight in Him and the love He has for you (Psalm 37:4). His loads of love protect you from all hurt, harm, and danger by providing His angels to watch over and protect you (Psalm 91:11). The Lord longs to give you His loads of love in exchange for any burden you may have. Loading up on the Lord’s love allows you to give grace to others and love them in spite of an offense. It is easier to pardon the pain and show love in spite of a hurt because God’s grace and mercy does the same for you. You are able to learn from the low blow that hurt you, forgive the trespass, and show love regardless of any wrongdoing. This type of love covers a multitude of sin (1 Peter 4:8). Loading up on the Lord’s love helps you to spread love. The Lord loads you with His love for you to give love to others and to be a blessing. It is always a blessing to give to others the kind of love that overflows with patience and kindness (1 Corinthians 13:48). Load up on the Lord’s love so you can show others that Jesus is the way, the truth Tracey Nicole George and the life (John 14:6). www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com Load up!
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health matters
COVID Vaccine Update
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic in the early months of 2020, governments across the world have urged pharmaceutical companies and scientists to develop an effective vaccine against the coronavirus. The United States and other countries are engaging in opportunities to vaccinate and protect individuals across their countries. State and local governments are charged with developing plans to administer the vaccine to essential workers and vulnerable members of their communities. Here are quick facts about the coronavirus vaccine: • Two vaccines are currently available for distribution to individuals in the USA. The Pfizer vaccine and the Moderna vaccine are administered by intramuscular injection. Each vaccine has over a 90% effectiveness rate in preventing the spread of the coronavirus in adults. • Both vaccines must be administered in (2) doses to be effective. The Pfizer vaccine must be administered in 21 days between the first and second doses. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the interval is 28 days between the first and second doses. • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states there is some wiggle room for that second dose — while also emphasizing that it's still essential to get fully vaccinated as soon as possible. Information provided by the CDC identifies that the vaccines may be scheduled for administration up to 6 weeks (42 days) after the first dose if it is not feasible for the individual to receive the second dose of the vaccine within the recommended time frame. • Minor side effects sometimes occur with each vaccine. Some individuals report redness and pain at the injection site, headache, • The vaccines will not CURE an individual that has the coronavirus. The vaccines PROTECT an individual from catching the virus. • The vaccine will be administered to essential workers first. This group includes hospital and healthcare workers, law enforcement officers, firemen, and paramedics. • Individuals who have chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart diseases, lung disease, and kidney disease, or older adults who live in nursing homes or long term residential care facilities are 24 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
also being vaccinated. No vaccine is approved for children under 16 years old. • Side effects from the vaccines include experiencing minor flulike symptoms, redness, and pain at the injection site, and feelings of tiredness after receiving the vaccines. These symptoms can be treated with rest and a mild over-the-counter pain reliever. Serious allergic reactions are rare. • Two other vaccines are advancing through clinical trials and completing FDA review. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine has a 90% effectiveness rate in producing antibodies that preventing COVID-19in adults. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine requires just a single dose, and it does not have the cold storage requirements of the other vaccines • The AstraZeneca vaccine is approved for emergency use in the United Kingdom. It is not approved for use in the US. Advantages to the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine include that it can be stored at higher temperatures, does not require subfreezing temperature storage, potentially making it more available to regional pharmacies and nursing home residents, and workers.
and costs less per dose. The vaccine has a preliminary reported 70-90% efficacy depending on the amount of vaccine given. The vaccine will be administered in several phases. Maryland is implementing phase 1A-B of the recommended vaccination plan. For more information, see the CDC Coronavirus vaccination website.
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Dr. Denyce Watties Daniels Associate Professor at I am administering the vaccine as a Coppin State University volunteer with the Baltimore City DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips 025@gmail.com Health Department.
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body basics
Fitness Is Better Together! Two is better than one, for they can help each other succeed. Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NLT)
What’s the one thing that will help you accomplish your fitness goals this year and keep you motivated? The answer is right next to you. Your spouse! Having your significant other as your accountability partner will be your secret weapon in 2019. Who would be better equipped for the assignment than the person who knows your strengths and weakness? Working out with your mate will be the game changer this year. Outside of work, your spouse is the one person you share the most time with, so he/she should know your food triggers and excuses and recognize the obstacles that easily distract you. This is the time of year when everyone starts to hit the gym, attend fitness classes or attempt to do an in-home fitness routine to fulfill their New Year’s goals. Over the years, I have discovered that one of the secrets to making goals become a reality is to have a person that you are accountable to. Having someone that can keep you on track and support you in your fitness journey is imperative. Working out with your mate has benefits in many more ways beyond just the physical and spiritual realms. It can enhance your relationship romantically, cut down on doctor visits, and improve your health for future years to come. This is a great way to catch up on each other’s day and to share some quality time together. When you have a common fitness goal with your significant other, it will encourage and support you when you feel like giving up. Start with a healthy eating regime that can include other family members. It can be quite challenging when one person is eating healthy and the other person is eating unhealthily. Making healthy nutritional choices together is the foundation toward living a healthier lifestyle. Sharing quality time with your mate without always going to an expensive restaurant is a great way to eat better and save money. Let’s look at a few ways to put a plan together. 1. Fit Wife Happy Life. Studies show that after jointly participating in physical activity, couples report feeling more satisfied with their relationship and more in love with their partner (Aaron, Norman, Aaron, & Hayman, 2000). Exercise is a perfect example of the type of invigorating activity that can have these positive effects. It’s the physiological arousal, rather than the novelty or challenge of the activity that drives romantic attraction (Lewandowski, & Aron, 2004). This suggests that sharing a fitness goal (such as training for a 5K), taking regular runs together, dancing, or having a date night at the gym can boost the quality of your romantic relationship. 2. Improve Your Flex Apeal. Helping your mate shed those unwanted pounds and seeing them sculpt their bodies will bring a freshness and spark to your relationship. It is so exciting to see how this physical change impacts other aspects of your relationship that will flow into other areas of your life. Just try it and see. 3. Keep The Fire Burning. We should never lose the attractiveness in our relationship. Helping each other grow physically and spiritual is a great relationship builder. We can take better care of our loved ones when we take care of our own well-being. When we are energized and physically fit, we put our selves in a position to be a blessing to others. So, grab your partner’s hand and invite him or her to join you with your gym workouts, neighborhood walks, and outdoor sports activities. Not only will you both benefit physically, but it can also help to build a closer bond between the two of you. 26 26 February February 2021 2021 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS Fitness Experts Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com Facebook:Charles Harris Instagram: charlesironmanharris
Charles and Ursula Harris Fitness Experts
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www.gracenglorymagazine.org
28 February 2021 | Grace&Glory
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