Grace&Glory 1
scripture scripture
6
Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Luke 2:7-14
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 7
December 2014 2021 | Grace&Glory 122 December
Grace&Glory 3
™
December 2021
on the cover: Pastor J. Kevin James, Jr Whitestone Baptist Church 3001 Baker Street Baltimore, MD 21216 www.whitestonebaptist.org
Cover Story pgs 8-11 This month we are welcoming to the Grace & Glory Family Pastor J. Kevin James, Jr.!
Pastor James is the newly elected Pastor of Whitestone Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland. Pastor J. Kevin James is a young pastor who shares with us his journey that led him back home to Baltimore City. Pastor James has a heart particularly for young pastors and we talk with him about this passion that led him to founding an organization just for young pastors.
Healthy Soul 20 JOY BRINGER
Season Bowers
Jesus is The Reason
26 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Pastor Rhoda Turner
The Perfect Gift 4 December 2021
24 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Elder Tracey George
The Birth of Something Big
28 MONTHLY MANNA
Min. Carenda Deonne
Reach For It
Healthy Mind
Entertainment
16 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Rejoice Again!
30 GOSPEL INDUSTRY NEWS
Ericka J.
Healthy Life
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2
32 HEALTH MATTERS
34 BODY BASICS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Charles Harris
Caregiver Role Strain
What is Your Body Telling You?
Call Tyson
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Contributors............................................ 6 From the Editor....................................... 7
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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 Rhoda Turner Season Bowers GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.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 advertising and more information contact
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6 December 2021 6 December 2021
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. ELDER 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. 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. 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. 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. SEASON BOWERS Season Bowers- is a Pastor, radio host, and Joy bringer! After spending over 20 years as a professional actor on stage, the Lord called her into full-time ministry. Season is passionate about releasing freedom and joy to the Glory of God in every way she can everywhere she goes.
from the editor
This
Christmas It’s Christmas time . . . a time of good cheer and holiday festivities, a time for singing carols, and a time for celebrating with family and friends. Twinkling lights, jingle bells, beautiful wrapped presents, and laughing children . . . these are the sights and sounds of Christmas. This time last year the sights and sounds of Christmas were very different and many of our Christmas traditions could not happen, and even this year we still need to be mindful of the safety of our brothers and sisters.
No matter what Christmas looks like this year, don’t let it stop the true meaning of Christmas. We will “keep” Christmas . . . may we keep it in our hearts that we may be kept in its hope. As believers the birth of Jesus is our reason for the season. The Son of God came to give us hope and peace to show us his Father’s love and compassion for everyone. “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel; which being interpreted is, God with us.” Matthew 1:23 The Christmas season comes at the end of the year and many may have mixed emotions about this year in particular. This year has been very challenging to say the least. Many of us suffered from the ravages of the pandemic. We suffered so much loss…the loss of loved ones, jobs, our homes, and livelihoods. Our mental well-being and stability was challenged and put to the test, stretching many of us beyond what we could bear. But I encourage you to still believe, in spite of everything that has happened. Purpose in your mind to celebrate the season with your whole heart anyway and this Christmas look up into the Father’s face and tell Him you have received His Christmas gift . . . our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Eternal life and endless joy are parts of the gift.
e i k c a J
EPPS
Christmas began in the heart of God. It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man. The best Christmas ever is not getting the perfect gift; it’s getting the true meaning of the season: the birth of Jesus! This Christmas remember and celebrate the coming of our Savior Jesus, the one who was chosen by God and sent with a purpose and destiny. This holiday season honor our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who was born to save all mankind and was sent to give us a hope and a future. Jesus Christ came that we might have everlasting life for all those who will believe. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11 Hark! the herald angels sing, “Glory to the new born King!” Grace&Glory 7
J. Kevin
Past or
Q&A Interview
JAMES, Jr. Whitestone Baptist Church Baltimore, MD
8 8 December December 2021 2021
Q&A G&G: Pastor James, welcome to Grace & Glory Magazine. It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to talk with you and feature you for our December Christmas issue. I would like to start with a few “getting to know you” questions. How would you describe yourself in three words and what is one thing that most people would be surprised to know about you? Pastor James: Let me first say, Thank You, for this awesome opportunity to be able to share with you in this December issue. It is truly an honor. In describing myself I would say that I am compassionate, driven, and passionate. One thing that most people would be surprised to know is that I used to play the tuba for years. G&G: Pastor James, most pastors have shared with me that ‘preaching the gospel’ was not what they initially had planned to do with their lives. Was it the same for you, did you have other plans for your life? Pastor James: Funny enough that was not the case for me. From a very young age I wanted to be a Pastor. The only way I can explain it, is there was something about the ministry that gave my spirit peace and excitement. As a young child, my dad really wanted me to play sports, to which I agreed, but assured him that, “I’ll do this sports stuff for now, but I am going to be a pastor.” Here we are twenty years later and I am doing just that. G&G: Pastor James, when did you realize the call on your life to preach the gospel? Was it a difficult call to accept? Pastor James: I was eight years old when I accepted my call to the ministry. My Pastor, at the
time, had been mentoring me and it was through that journey that I was able to define what this inner desire was. It had its challenges because I was still a child, with what seemed like an adult responsibility. However, I am grateful for my parents who stressed balance and grateful for my paternal grandmother who spiritually guided me as a fifth-generation preacher. G&G: Pastor James, ministry is not an easy road, what has been your most valuable lesson or experience? Pastor James: My most valuable lesson has been patience; patience is key. In ministry it is easy to become driven by the hype or the rush of this present age to be relevant; sometimes to the point of pushing yourself beyond capacity. Yet, patience is that element of the fruit of the Spirit that reminds me that is okay to be relevant, but the real desire should be to please God. G&G: Do you see yourself as a role model for young aspiring ministers? What advice would you give to young ministers today? Pastor James: In 2017, I created the Young Pastor Journey Network which is a safe space for Pastors 40-years-old and under, as well as for those that have been a pastor for ten years or less. I noticed I was often helping my comrades navigate ministerial moments. I wanted to create a space where we all could collaborate and benefit from the other. My advice to a young minister
Continued on page 10 Grace&Glory 9
Q&A Continued from page 9
would be to connect yourself with individuals that can help you to cultivate your calling, giftings, and knowledge. God has anointed you to impact the world you are connected to, so you want to be prepared. G&G: Pastor James, is there anyone you look up to who has been a mentor or leader in your life? Pastor James: I have been blessed to have quite a few mentors that have given me wisdom to empower my ministerial journey. One who comes to mind is my grandmother, Rev. Geraldine Stancil James. She has been an example of resilience and knowing your purpose. By age 21, she had been licensed and ordained in the Baptist Church, in a time where women were still fighting to be heard. My encouragement in ministry and understanding of pastoral care came through watching her serve her church and the Park Heights community. ♦ ♦ ♦ G&G: Pastor James, I understand that you are returning back to Baltimore to Pastor your home church White Stone Baptist Church. How did all of this come about? Pastor James: Yes, I was blessed to have been
10 December 2021
elected as Pastor of Whitestone this year. Previously, I had served Whitestone as Pastor to Children, Youth and Young Adults from 2012-2016. The only way I can put it is this was a move of God. I was proudly serving as the Senior Pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in East St. Louis, IL. We were growing immensely and impacting the community. Yet, through prayer and truly discerning the voice of God, I knew home was the place I needed to be. When I was elected by the members of Whitestone, this was confirmation for me. G&G: Pastor James, as the new Pastor of White Stone Baptist Church, what can the city of Baltimore expect from this ministry? What are some of the unmet needs in the community that the church will be addressing? Pastor James: Whitestone understands that our purpose in this city is to connect humanity to Christ through love, faith and service. We have been a lighthouse within West Baltimore community for over 80 years. It is my desire to lead our church further into being a safe space for an individual’s spiritual growth and to be a leading partner in our community. Our church is located within the West/Southwestern corridor; an area that needs resources and services. Presently, we serve our community through our weekly food pantry and just held a Black Wall Street event, which allowed the community to come in to
Q&A buy from Black Business owners. There is more to come.
G&G: Pastor James, considering the legacy of White Stone Baptist Church, what is your vision and hopes for the future of this ministry? Pastor James: My vision for Whitestone Baptist Church is simple; I desire for us to be a church that is spiritual strong and community respected.
G&G: Pastor James, what would you say to that hard to reach group, the youth and young adults, who might be looking for a church home to motivate them to come and worship at White Stone Baptist Church? Pastor James: At 30, I consider G&G: Pastor James, lastly you myself a young adult. One thing are not only a Pastor but a family I know about my generation man, tell us how you keep both and those after us, we want your family and your ministry authentic and purposeful balanced? experiences. Whitestone is the Pastor James: Yes, I am blessed place where an individual will to be the father of fraternal twins: experience L.I.F.E. - Love in Pastor James' Twins John and Sariyah Sariyah and John. It’s not easy action, Identity in Christ, Faith because fatherhood and being a development, and Empowerment pastor are demanding roles. I keep balance by doing through relationships. We are a ministry that houses my best to be organized and intentional. I always six generations within one building and it our desire want my children to know they are my number one to connect with all to move this City into a healthy priority and that I love ministry as well. direction.
Grace&Glory 11
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to your good health
Dr. Carla
DEBNAM Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
16 December December 2021 2021 16
Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Rejoice
We are at the end of another year. We have lived through political, racial and public health crisis. There has been so much coming at us that sometimes we did not know one day from another. This tension and testing have drained many of us and have caused some to become anxious, depressed and feeling hopeless. The current events may be troubling, but we have not fully succumbed to the mood of the moment. Somehow even amid covid, conflict and confusion we have found a reason to rejoice. We are not rejoicing because of what we are going through. We are rejoicing despite what we are going through. There are reasons to celebrate no matter what is happening around us. Philippians 4:4 encourages us to, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (NIV). This does not mean we ignore our feelings or suppress our hurts. It means that joy can be found near us because it is within us. We can shift our mindset when we intentionally seek to find “there is a bright side somewhere” as the old hymn reminds us. The bright side may not be found in the moment of our distress, but it is discovered when our prayer for peace is answered. The bright side can be when a family member we were estranged from gives us a call. The bright side can be in the conversation with a friend or the
Again
encouragement from a coworker. The bright side is closer than we realize and that is a reason to rejoice. We can rejoice again because our hope is not in people, positions, politics, or promises. Our hope is in Jesus, Immanuel, God with us! Our hope is in remaining connected to the vine as John 15:7 reminds us, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (NIV). Our hope is not this present world but in our eternal home. Our hope is in loving, forgiving and blessing those who despitefully use us. This does not mean we continue to let them abuse us, but we pray and keep it moving. Our ability to rejoice again in times like these is supernatural and amazing. The joy of the Lord is our strength and that enables us to rejoice. God can shift and transform our minds, hearts and souls as we feast on his word, fellowship with other believers and follow those who follow Christ. You and I can rejoice again because we have hope in the one who brings us joy and in the words of the angels, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14 (NIV). Rejoice again because peace is promised to those that believe. Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
Grace&Glory 17 17 Grace&Glory
18 December 2021
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joy bringer
Season
BOWERS 20 20 December December2021 2021
Jesus is the reason Tis the Season! Season’s Greetings. Jesus is the reason for the season. This time of year these phrases can be seen everywhere, and when your name is Season it’s the only time your name will appear on anything. Each year my mother loved to capitalize on the opportunity to use my name in clever ways. She would have me change our family’s answering machine greeting (remember those?) to “Tis the Season! You’ve reached the Marshall family” and she would sign our family Christmas cards, which always included, “Jesus is the reason for the Season” with “love, Jerry, Debby, and Season’s greetings.” I was not a fan.
It wasn’t until I was older that I began to appreciate the beauty and significance of this time of year. The season of Advent leading up to Christmas invites us to slow down and meditate on the hope, love, joy, and peace given to us because of the long-awaited promise fulfilled by the birth of Jesus. The word advent means
arrival. It’s a neat and tidy word, but the experience of waiting for an arrival often brings angst. When I found out my best friend was pregnant I was so excited. She was the first of my friends to be pregnant and, because I am an only child l, I didn’t have much experience with babies. I was ready to be the best auntie ever, but my friend and her husband had very different feelings. We were all full-time actors making a living on the stage. They were so worried that they wouldn’t have enough money, time, or energy to care for their child. Their eyes were wide with fear and while they were happy to be having a baby, you could feel their terror. My best friend’s grandmother shared a piece of wisdom that stuck with me. “Oh honey, all babies are born with a loaf of bread under their arm.” It’s an old Hebrew saying (and often found in Spanish-speaking cultures) meaning that parents need not worry about the costs to feed and raise a child because God will provide a way. The promise will come with provision. “Don’t be afraid!” the angel said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12 NLT) Hope is a beautiful thing, but anticipation can be a real killer, or so the saying goes. The reason for the torture is the threat of disappointment and the fear of the unknown. Most of us have had a few too many pie crust promises crumble in our hands. The Israelites waited for thousands of years for the arrival of the Messiah. Talk about long-suffering! But God always had a plan to fulfill His promise. Baby Jesus was born with a loaf of bread for the whole world. In fact, He was born in Bethlehem, which is literally translated as “house of bread.” Jesus says of Himself in John 6:35, “I am the bread
of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” He compared His own body to bread as He broke a loaf and said, "This is my body given for you...” (Matt. 26:26). He was the bread that not only would satisfy the world, but He said of Himself, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 6:35). Jesus was both the fulfilled promise and the provision. Jesus didn't only bring freedom and joy to the Israelites. Isaiah 49:5-6 indicates that while Jesus was in the womb the plan was for Him to also be a light to the Gentiles and all people to the ends of the earth. He fulfilled a promise to you too - a promise you may not even know you were waiting for. His birth brought joy to you by answering your cry to be saved. The Lord heard you. When you lost hope, He answered. When you cried out in fear, He answered. When you were abandoned and alone, He answered. He answered you by being born. The Father's one and only Son entered this world to save you. While you may not have felt it in the moment, that cry for help was heard and answered. Even though that answer came over 2000 years ago, it is supernaturally effective in this very moment - as if in your exact moment of need the baby Jesus was born just for you. It’s as if the angel who proclaimed at the birth of Jesus, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy”, was saying it directly to you. I recently heard hope described as the joyful anticipation of good. Because of the faithfulness of Jesus, His constant presence, and His abundant provision, we do not have to wait for the outcome to experience joy. He is here. Our beautiful bundle of joy. Jesus is the reason for the season, so let’s celebrate! Joyfully, Season Bowers
Season Bowers Pastor, Author, Radio Host, Joy bringer 619-807-8509 Follow the joy at seasonbowers.com Instragram, Facebook Grace&Glory 21
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trinkets to triumph
24 December December2021 2021 24
Tracey
GEORGE
The
Birth Of
Something Big
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and you are on the brink of birthing something B.I.G.! In this season of celebrating your Savior’s birth and gift giving, God is getting ready to give you a gift and it will be the birth of something B.I.G. The acronym B.I.G. is B – Blessing, I – Impact, and G – Glory to God. The gift He has for you is going to be a blessing to you and to others; it will make an impact; and it will give glory to God. God wants to use you to show forth His glory and wants you to share the gift He is going to give to you in this joyous season.
Jesus’s birth was B.I.G. and He was God’s greatest gift. He was born to be the Savior of the world and to offer salvation to anyone who would receive it. Since you received His gift of salvation, now greater works shall you do (John 14:12). The tailored gift God has just for you, coupled with the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), will be a blessing to others, make an impact, and give Glory to God. Samuel, the prophet, is the perfect example of the birth of something B.I.G. and the perfect gift given to his mother, Hannah, after years of struggle to conceive a child. Think of everything major he was in his lifetime: raised and reared in the temple, judge, priest, and prophet (1 & 2 Samuel). Samuel even had the privilege of anointing Israel’s first two kings, Saul and David (1 Samuel
10:1 & 1 Samuel 16:13). He is even listed in Hebrews 11 among the awesome examples of people of great faith. Like Samuel, God wants to do B.I.G. things for you too. ‘Tis the season to be jolly and to jump for joy for the gift you are going to get from your glorious God! With every birth of a gift from God, there is labor pains. These labor pains are from the enemy stepping up his attack trying to make you give up and not get the gift that God has for you. Stay focused and fixed on the fact that after the labor pains you will possess the prize. All of the attacks you may encounter is just an indication that your due date is near. It means that the gift God has for you is in position and about to be in your possession. This is the time to be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). You are on the brink of birthing something B.I.G. During this Christmas season, while you are giving and receiving gifts, give glory to God in advance while you are waiting for birth of something B.I.G. In the meantime, make room for the Master’s gift that will be manifested and believe God that this gift will be a blessing, make a major impact on others, and most of all give glory to God. Glory to God in the highest for the great gifts He will give to you. Merry Christmas! Elder Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 25 25
a woman’s perspective
Rhoda TURNER THE PERFECT
GIFT
When I was a child Christmas was my most favoritest holiday. I know that favoritest isn’t a word and using most in front of that word is grammatically incorrect. However, that’s how I felt. It was the holiday that I was truly excited about. As a child I started preparing for Christmas in November right after my birthday. I would look and see what gifts I didn’t receive so that I can place those requests on my Christmas list. The media portrays Christmas as a time of giving. It’s also orchestrated around a man named Santa Claus who gives gifts to all of the children who are naughty and nice. So, technically, I prepared for Christmas at the beginning of the year. I wanted Santa to bring me something through the chimney (that we didn’t even have) at midnight while I opened my gifts that evening, and he was supposed to bring them on his sleigh flown by reindeers. My expectations looking back, l made all of that a tad bit confusing. But I played along with a whole bunch of unanswered questions.
26 December 2021
Then one year my Mother answered all of those questions with a story and a Christmas theme. This year’s theme was entitled the “No Gift Christmas“. As a child I was like “wait what”? I’ve been so good purposefully so that I can stay on the “Nice list“, and now you’re telling me all that was in vain. That was truly upsetting because there were some individuals that I wanted to give a piece of my mind, but I couldn’t because of that nice list that I wanted to stay on. My mother began to tell us the story found in the 2nd Chapter of Luke. This was the parable that I’ve heard before during the Church’s Sunday School Christmas program where I would tremble in fear, because I hated memorizing the speeches that I knew I was going to forget. (I had horrible stage fright; to this day I’m still overcoming). As my mother proceeded she began to talk about Mary and Joseph, who traveled a journey to be counted (census) while Mary was with child that was conceived through an immaculate conception. As the story goes when Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem every place they went they were turned away except for a barn in the back of one inn that was referred to as a manger. As my mom was telling us this story she asked us to close our eyes and to imagine how they might have been feeling. At that moment I began to weep. My mother asked me why I was crying and I shared with her that I knew what rejection felt like and wanting to give up, but I kept pushing because I knew that something great was living inside of me. I know that’s how Mary felt. As Mary settled in she gave birth to baby Jesus who we refer to as the Ultimate Sacrifice. As the tree was without decorations and not a gift underneath it, I understood what I already knew… that Christmas isn’t about us giving to each other, or a tree, or the big meal that we didn’t have that year either. It was about the ultimate gift and that’s the gift of life. So, this year I challenge you to do what we do in our household. We give a gift to Jesus because it’s His birthday. Have you ever had a birthday party where everyone in the room got a gift but you? That would be bogus. It would be unkind to the guest of honor. This year give a gift to the person we celebrate. That gift doesn’t have to be a financial gift. It can be a gift of your time. Do something for Jesus that would make Him happy. Give a gift this year that will continuously give back to others. Give a gift that keeps on giving. Rhoda Turner
Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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monthly manna
Min. Carenda Deonne
28 December December 2021 28 2021
R each
Can you believe it? We are in the last month of the year. Just take a moment and reflect on all that God has not only done for you but also within you. It is my prayer that the things you contended with in 2021 you will not contend with in 2022. It is also my prayer that your level of spiritual maturity has shifted and elevated. You can not cross over into 2022 putting new wine into old wine skins. I want to encourage you in this last month of the year to reach for it! It is not too late to finish this year well. It is not too late to finish this year strong. I need you to reach for it no matter what it feels like or looks like. Keep your eyes on the Lord and see yourself stretching higher in this month. We all have a natural ability to reach, but I want to speak to you beyond your natural ability. I want to speak to the spirit of God that dwells within you. I want every gift in you to be stirred. I pray that your testimony in this last month of the year is that God exceeded your expectations.
Let me encourage you once more, it is not too late! Your story can change quicker than you can blink. Trust God now that He is bringing
For It!
you into divine alignment. That means some things in your life this month might shift and some people in your life might be shifted, but trust God! I want to remind you that in this hour God is saying, “Reach for it!” Now if man was making that statement, we already know that statement would yield limitations, but God is saying reach for it. That means, what is impossible with man is possible with God. That means God is speaking from a place of security because He knows the plans that He has for you. That means even when you think the Lord is not near, He is closer than you could imagine. Best of all, when God tells you to reach for it, He says it with love; and because we know that perfect love drives out all fear, I need you to stand in your God given authority and REACH FOR IT! You can accomplish that goal. You can write that book. You can go back to school. You can be the first in your family and nationally to achieve something. You can share your story without shame! When I launched my business, Carenda Deonne LLC, it was from a place of pain. I wasn’t on the mountain top. I wasn’t even
in the hills; I was in the valley. I had lemons coming from every direction. Truth be told, I had more internal lemons than external lemons. Nevertheless, I decided to reach for it. I decided to embrace change by building my inner man. I decided to shift my mindset and I speak the word of God over my life with boldness. I decided to heed to wise counsel. I didn’t just need to talk about my pain, but I needed layers of hurt to be uprooted. I tell people all the time making lemonade is a thing of the past. Now I am taking aim, by throwing those lemons back. What are you going to reach for this month? What is it in your life that you need to completely and totally surrender to? Can you hear the voice of the Lord speaking to you? Will you obey Him? Will you answer the call? Will you say, “Yes Lord?” Do not allow your pride, stubbornness or selfishness to hold you back? God is calling you to greater works, now is the time to REACH FOR IT in Jesus Name! Merry Christmas! Min. Carenda Deonne Your #1 Change Agent www.carendadeonne.com Grace&Glory 29 29 Grace&Glory
Kanye West I don’t think any of us saw this coming! I know I didn’t! It’s definitely safe to say, Kanye West has made his mark in Gospel Music, he began with his Invite only Sunday Services movement, featuring some of gospel music’s greatest hits, remixed, remade, and urbanized the Kanye way. This move has obviously paid off for him; he is sweeping the awards this year! At last month’s American Music Awards, he won “Favorite Gospel Artist” dominating the category amongst Gospel Music’s A List and legendary artists, Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Tasha Cobbs, and Koryn Hawthorne. Earlier this year, he won his first gospel Grammy, for “Jesus Is King”, his first Grammy in 8 years. Back in June, he took home, “Songwriter of The Year” at the BMI Trailblazer Awards. Jason Nelson Let’s Give It Up For The Home Team! Jason Nelson’s latest single “Residue” hit #1 on Billboard Gospel Airplay Charts. The project has also garnered Grammy attention for the first round, “Close” for “Best Gospel Album” and the single “Residue” for “Best Gospel Performance/Song”.
Kanye West
Maverick City Music I’m beginning to think, if you don’t have any knowledge of Maverick City Music, you must be under a musical rock! These SOLD OUT SHOWS in all these MAJOR arenas all across the country, has been mind blowing! Nothing but amazing things about the entire experience, from the opening of the show to close. To call it a concert, does not speak to what takes place when they hit the stage. Chandler Moore spearheads this all-star team of worshippers, Naomi Raine, Aaron Moses, Dante Bowe, Tiffany Hudson, Brandon Lake, Maryanne J George, Alton Eugene, and Harolddd. The tour also included spot date appearances by Kierra Sheard-Kelly and LaCrae. With this kind of crazy buzz, needless to say, they’ve entered into the first round of Grammys, and won quite a few awards. They even have holiday music being released, as well as a special Christmas Tour Date. Kirk Franklin Kirk Franklin is premiering his movie, “A Gospel Christmas” on Lifetime Movie Network, on December 4th. The movie is about a young assistant pastor that gets promoted as head pastor, at a new church. This takes place as they are gearing up for the annual Winter Jamboree. All the songs were written and arranged by Kirk Franklin, who will also be making a special appearance.
Jason Nelson
JJ Hairston JJ has released a single titled “Thankful”, most befitting not just for the holidays but it also speaks to giving honor and praise to God for what we’ve been able to survive in this current climate of the pandemic and the loss of loved ones, employment, sickness, etc. It’s available now at all digital media platforms. Vincent Bohanan Vincent will be releasing his new album “Live in Chicago” on December 3rd. In addition, last month, Thanksgiving week, he premiered the Official music video for his single, “Oh Give Thanks”, that’s literally being sang all over the world. Check it out!
Maverick City Music
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Follow me on twitter, www.twitter.com @MissEricka J, facebook www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson, or via email missericka75@yahoo.com
Stellar Awards The Stellar Awards “Tribute to the Holidays” hosted by Jekalyn Carr is airing from November 21December 31 with performances by VaShawn Mitchell, Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Charles Jenkins, Mali Music, Leon Timbo, Janice James and others. Check your local listings for air times; it will also be on Bounce TV, Christmas Day or via www.stellarawards.com.
gospel industry news
Kirk Franklin
Phillip Bryant DMV’s Own Master Producer Phil Bryant is making a lot of noise right now! Not only is he behind the music and production of Tamela Mann’s latest project, “Overcomer”, and the single “Help”, but he’s also Producer of the soundtrack for Tamela Mann’s first movie, “Soul Santa”, which released November 26, on BET Network and BET+. Phil is also behind the single “What Christmas Really Means” from the movie which is currently available at all digital media outlets. I have been a fan of this man’s work for quite some time and he definitely has the magic touch. Nadja Scott & Divine Anointing This musical aggregation is absolutely masterful! Another one for the Home Team, Baltimore! Its leader & founder “Girl Director” Nadja Scott is skillfully trained in multiple music genres and is a musician, as well. The group just recorded their reunion project last month and just released an incredible music video for their single “The Promise”, which happens to be one of my favorite songs, also featuring Phillip Bryant. The group is also signed to his label, Writerz Blok Music Group. Definitely check this video out, I love it, grab the album! Available at all digital media outlets and the video is available via You Tube! Congrats on making round one for this year’s Grammy nominations!
JJ Hairston
Vincent Bohanan
Stellar Awards
Nadja Scott & Divine Anointing
Phillip Bryant
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health matters
CAREGIVER ROLE STRAIN As family dynamics, relationships, and situations change, many individuals care for family members. This caring may involve providing the medical and non- medicalrelated needs of an ill spouse or partner, a disabled child, an aging relative, a neighbor, or a friend. Caregiving can creep up on you. It may begin as dropping off a meal at someone's home, doing the laundry for your mother, or taking your dad to a doctor's appointment. You find yourself doing the grocery shopping and refilling prescriptions. Gradually, you are doing more and more. At some point, you realize you have committed to taking care of someone else. Sometimes, caregiving is triggered by a significant health event, such as a stroke, heart attack, or accident. Maybe you suddenly realize that dad's memory lapses have become dangerous. Life as you know it stops, and all your energy goes to caring for your loved one. Caregiving has become your new career, and you adjust to a new normal. Although the caregiving role may be rewarding, it may also come with new and unique stressors. Caregivers may have jobs, child care, and family responsibilities coupled with the need to care for another. Caring for another can add pressure and strain to an already hectic and complicated life. The demands on a caregiver's body, mind, and emotions can easily seem overwhelming, leading to fatigue, hopelessness, and ultimately burnout. It can be particularly disheartening to see a loved one continue to deteriorate despite best care efforts. Caregiver role strain occurs when the caregiver feels they can no longer adequately carry out their responsibilities. Physical symptoms of fatigue, insomnia or excessive sleep, irritability, social withdrawal, concentration, frequent bouts of crying, and engaging in unhealthy coping methods such as alcohol and drug abuse may appear. Caregivers need to take care of themselves. Think about the emergency directions given on an airplane. Instructions are given to apply the oxygen mask to ourselves first 32 December 2021
before administering oxygen to others. When you care for yourself, you have the energy, focus, patience, and more to be a better caregiver. Take the effort to exercise frequently, eat balanced meals, work on hobbies and visit with friends. To help manage caregiver stress and feelings of being overwhelmed, do not refuse help from others. Small acts of kindness such as running errands, sitting with your loved one can provide welcomed support to the caregiver. Be prepared with a list of ways that others can help you, and let the helper choose what he or she would like to do. Focus on what you are able to provide. It's normal to feel guilty sometimes, but understand that no one is "perfect". Do the best that you can. Consider joining a support group. Groups are available online and in person. Group members can offer a safe space to share your feelings with people that will understand your situation. Support groups can provide access to resources. A support group can also be a good place to create meaningful friendships. Many caregivers have issues with sleeping. Not getting quality sleep over a long period of time can cause health issues. If you have trouble getting a good night's sleep, talk to your doctor. Plan to take a break. It may be hard to imagine leaving your loved one in someone else's care, but taking a break can be one of the best things you do for yourself as well as the person you're caring for. Assistance from home health care aides can relieve the caregiver of many daily tasks. Adult day care centers are available in many communities that provide safe care and social activities to keep your loved one engaged. While caring for a loved one will never be stress-free, implement strategies to help avoid the symptoms of caregiver burnout, and that put more balance in your life. Do not neglect your own physical and emotional needs. Getting information and training to build your confidence in the many tasks you perform. Seek support and information online on diseasespecific websites. Talk to your medical providers, state agencies on aging. The end Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels of burnout and role strain Assistant Professor at Coppin State University begins with saying, “I need DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu help.” healthytips025@gmail.com
Grace&Glory 33
body basics
How do you react to pain that you experience in your body? Do you ignore it or do your address discomfort immediately? We are so busy living our hectic lives that in most cases, we sweep our aches and pains under the rug and pray they go away. At times, we all suffer from some type of pain whether it’s a headache, backache, joint pain, and the list goes on and on. Pain is a good indicator that something is going on in our bodies, and we need to pay attention to it. When problems occur and we act on them right away, it decreases the risk of a more serious problem. According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, chronic pain affects approximately 100 million U.S. adults and costs $560 to $635 billion per year in direct medical treatment costs and lost productivity. When we engage in a regular workout program, we feel better. Exercise can be a natural treatment for chronic pain, depending on the level of pain. Of course, some situations will need medical advice or a trip to your doctor. Depending on the cause of the pain, a well-developed workout routine can help to decrease inflammation, increase mobility, and decrease the pain, without relying on any medication. Walk Your Pain Away A good way to prevent problems from happening before they manifest is to combine cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training to your daily routine. If you are currently dealing with joint pain or fatigue, a moderate 34 December 2021
walking program will help ease some aches and pains. By just increasing your movement a little each day will help to begin improving your body’s rejuvenation. Weight Lifting Does the Body Good Building muscles is important for stabilizing the joints and preventing future injuries. For people living with chronic pain, strength training is especially important. Building muscle helps you maintain proper posture and improves balance while reducing the risk of injuries that could lead to more pain. Working the muscles of the abdomen, hips, and back can significantly improve core strength and stability. Stretching is the Fountain of Youth Having a good yoga or stretching program is by far the best way to alleviate pain. Once you lengthen your muscles and release stress from the body, you will immediately feel restored and energized. Being more flexible is also a great way to avoid stiffness which often leads to injuries and pain. If you have experienced any type of long-term pain in your body, you should not hesitate, and CHARLES HARRIS see a doctor immediately. Fitness Expert Please take time to listen Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center to your body. It is always 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 speaking to you! 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com
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www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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