www.gracenglorymagazine.org  1
scripture page
God Of All Comfort
II Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV) 3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV) 8
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Psalm 46:1, 10-11 (NIV) God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” 11 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. 1
10
2 May May2020 2020| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 2
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  3
May 2020
™
contents on the cover:
Saluting Mothers on the Frontline of the Coronavirus Pandemic Midchild Carter Sierra Chase Antoinette Coates Sabrina Tapp-Harper
Andrea Moore Dr. Eme Nelly Silva Britney Wallace Theressa Williams
Special Feature pgs 8-11 - May is Mother’s Day Month and this Mother’s Day we are honoring and celebrating the extraordinary women on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. A few of these phenomenal women take a moment to share how they keep it all together under all the pressure of being an essential worker and a mom.
Healthy Soul 14 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
16 MONTHLY MANNA
Rhoda Turner
Minister Carenda Deonne
A Mother's Love
The Danger of ‘Faking it Until You Make It’
18 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
4 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
Tracey George
Mary, The Master’s Mother
Healthy Mind 15 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Being Still
Healthy Body
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2 Contributors............................................ 6
19 HEALTH MATTERS
20 BODY BASICS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Charles & Ursula Harris
Coping Through Your Grief On Mother’s Day
Does Having a Strong Immune System Help Prevent Viruses?
From the Editor....................................... 7
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 5
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 Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill Rhoda Turner GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine By Mail! For subscriptions go to our website: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
For more information contact 443-813-6547 • 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. Follow us on facebook and twitter at: facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine twitter @gracenglorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
6 May May2020 2020||Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 6
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.
TRACEY NICOLE 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.
PASTOR RHODA TURNER
BISHOP SHIRLEY AND PASTOR TIM STANFILL Bishop and Pastor Stanfill are the co-creators of Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral. They are humble servants who live by God's word in everything they do in life, love, travel and business. When they are not spending time with family they run missionary programs in Africa; share their ministry across the globe; and manage 3 businesses. They have learned how to keep their fire burning and keep God first, no matter what tests life brings them.
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.
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.
Mothers:
from the editor
The Original Essential Worker
“Mothers love with all their strength, all their being, and all their hearts, and with that love they perform magic when called upon, move mountains when necessary, and give the moon and stars whenever possible. Mother’s Day is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. Who is this woman that we go out of our way to celebrate with such grandeur? All over the world, people will be busy shopping for this woman trying to find that one special thing that will express their love for her. Who is this woman that Hallmark goes above and beyond to describe? Who is this woman that songs and books are written about her? Poems will be read in church about her. Little children will proudly show off their ‘Crayola’ creations for this woman. Who is she? We call her Mother! There are countless ways to describe this woman. Her ability to love unconditionally. Her protective nature to keep her children from all hurt, harm and danger. She is a nurturer; she makes sure her children’s physical and spiritual needs are met. She is also her children’s first teacher, developing their minds to survive Jackie Epps in the world. Editor-in-Chief There are many attributes of this woman we call Mother. She is our refuge, our ‘way-maker’, our best friend. She keeps all of our heart’s desires and dreams close to her heart. Perhaps the most important attribute of this woman is her praying spirit. Her prayers cover her children when they are near and far. A mother’s love is the most powerful love we experience in life. When God created this woman, He knew that she would be an extension of Himself. The attributes of our mothers are strikingly similar to the attributes of our Heavenly Father. As we celebrate, honor and remember our mothers, let us Praise God for His wonderful creation! For the last few months we have heard the term ‘essential worker’ a countless number of times; truth be told mothers have always been essential workers. This Mother’s Day will no doubt be one for the history books; for many of us it will be the first time to have to celebrate Mother’s Day virtually. I am sure we will find many unique and creative ways to make this day special for Mom in spite of being apart. And even though we may not be able to physically give our mothers a warm and loving hug this Mother’s Day, find ways to show that love to her; I’m sure she will appreciate whatever gesture is made on her behalf. However you choose to celebrate or remember Mom this Mother’s Day, remember to lift in prayer those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones including those lost due to the coronavirus pandemic. Remember God cares…and earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. . . .
Peace and Blessings
www.gracenglorymagazine.org 7 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 7
Mothers On The Frontline
We are saluting, honoring, and praying for all the mothers who found themselves thrust onto the frontline of the Coronavirus pandemic, simply because they are essential workers. We call them our 'Sheroes'. We asked a few of these 'Sheroes' would they answer the following questions, here are their answers.... Being an essential employee during an unprecedented time, how are you balancing being a mother, taking care of your family's needs and your own self-care? Do you have any words or advice for other mothers on the front line?
◆◆◆ Theressa Williams, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC Family Nurse Practitioner for 2 1/2years, Registered Nurse for 7 1/2 years “It is difficult to balance being on the frontline, a mom, and a fulltime student. I have been working 7 days a week for over the last 3 weeks to take care of many patients with various disorders. Many people are suffering from anxiety and depression due to the pandemic, so it is important for me to care for them as well as be there for my family. I am also a student in a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program which I will complete later this year. I have to remember to take time for myself during this pandemic because I can’t help my patients reach their optimal level of health if I am not taking care of myself. Once I get home from work, I am able to relax and do fun activities with my 6-year-old daughter, Jade. My advice for mothers on the frontline is to take care of yourself, keep God first, and remember this too shall pass! Since we are on the frontline, it is important to take all the necessary precautions to stay safe in order to keep our family safe.”
◆◆◆ Sabrina Tapp-Harper-Major Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer “I have been in Law Enforcement serving since 1987, and retired from the Baltimore Police Department as a Major. I am the Mother of three children, a 13-year old daughter in the 7th grade, who attends Roland Park Country School, and who now has a rigorous distance learning curriculum; a 19-year old daughter, who is a freshman at Morgan State University, with a 4.0 GPA, who became a mom herself this past September; and a 29-year old son, who is a police training academy recruit, scheduled to graduate this summer. In unprecedented times like these, I hold fast to my faith, particularly when matters become unpredictable, even for those of us with expertise. This is also a good time to focus on healthy eating habits, even if perhaps you have never done it before. I realize that staying healthy and fit, mentally and physically (not just for me, but for so many others who depend on me daily) is more important now perhaps more than it has ever been. Stay safe and healthy!” 8 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
Antoinette Coates RN, BSN Charge Nurse at the University of Maryland Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology Ambulatory clinic that treats diabetes, transgender dysphoria, weight loss and endocrine disorders in adults and children. “I’ve been balancing my life and being an essential employee on the front line by not allowing myself to become overloaded and by getting out of my office to take a walk around the campus to break up the isolation. At home, I have been watching movies with my 4 and 18 year-olds. We enjoy just laughing and playing with my youngest, which is much needed family bonding time. These times together allow me to focus on how important family is and appreciating each other’s love. When I need a minute just to myself, I go out front and enjoy working on my lawn. This gives me something to look forward to as I pull up weeds and see my flowers blossoming and pretty. Small things seem to hold more value and are appreciated at such challenging times. A simple smile outside of the anxiety and saddening facts of this pandemic is critical to stay balanced in such uncertain times. Seeing the flowers grow makes me feel accomplished in a way because I’m able to see the progress of something so refreshing and appealing to the eye. My advice to other mothers on the frontline would be to just breathe, trust God and enjoy this time you have to spend with your family and caring for others. God sees what you are doing so He will ensure you are ok, like always. As a nurse, I rest assured knowing this is my calling and truly what I was sent to do. Although tomorrow isn’t promised, I take pride in the care I provide for others no matter the circumstances known to man.”
◆◆◆ Sierra Chase Baltimore City School Teacher “My name is Sierra Chase and I often times wear many hats daily. During this pandemic, those hats seem to be a lot bigger. I am a teacher, a wife, and a mom of four, ages 15, 9, 7 and 9 months. During this time it has been extremely stressful for us all. Every day I have to care for a 9 month old, who is extremely demanding and requires ALL of my attention. In between the time of caring for the baby, I have to do online lessons for my 6th graders, be available for emails and chats from students and parents all day every day. I’m actually working more now than I was before the pandemic. I also have to be available for online virtual meetings with my colleagues and administrators; we are also meeting a lot more now than before the pandemic. This is only the beginning of it. I’ve also added many other hats to my regular quarantined life including but not limited to chef, referee, janitor, 2nd grade teacher, 4th grade teacher, 10th grade teacher, gym teacher and entertainer....The quarantine was taking a toll on me in the beginning, cooking 3 times a day, cleaning up 3-4 times a day and still trying to manage all of the other responsibilities. I was so anxious and on the verge of an anxiety attack, then I realized I needed to slow down and demand help from the other 4 people that live in our house! Schedules work for us! We created a cooking/cleaning schedule. The kids, my husband and I all have a day where we cook all the meals for that day and clean the kitchen. They jumped on board and we’ve been rocking with that schedule for about 3 weeks now. That was a huge relief for me! Next schedule was the work schedule. I minimized their work days to Tuesday and Thursday. On those days I’m available to MY CHILDREN to help them with their school work. Monday and Wednesday I do my work. Friday’s we all do family activities! We watch movies, play board games etc. I recommend to other moms to do more self-care!! I’ve learned to take care of myself more! Daily jogs and exercise help keep my mind sane! Don’t stress over the small things. I always look for the light in every situation to avoid fixating on the negative. I am thankful for what I do have and the love that is overflowing in my household.” www.gracenglorymagazine.org 9
Midchild Carter, Business Owner- L.C.L. Services LLC “I operate my own cleaning company, L.C.L. Services LLC. I have provided residential and commercial cleaning services to the Baltimore City and Baltimore County areas since 2016. My job has become much more extensive since the COVID-19 outbreak. Our standard cleanings are now just as detailed as our deep cleanings. Door knobs, light switches, handles, and railings are just a few examples of the frequently touched surfaces we sanitize each time we service a home or business. Part two of my job begins when I get home to my two-year old son, my four-year old daughter, and my fiancé. Unfortunately, I'm not able to touch anyone until I change my clothes and wash my hands. As an employee during this unprecedented time, I balance motherhood, family, and self-care by resting, exercising, and praying. I also find it helpful to record my personal experiences of COVID-19 in a journal. My advice to other mothers, who are working on the frontline, is to explain the pandemic to their children. It is important for children to understand why their social and academic lives have changed so suddenly and drastically. Explain the purpose of masks, gloves, and social distancing. Show them how properly washing their hands and covering their nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing can help prevent the spread of germs. If they know what's going on and how to protect themselves, they may feel a little safer.”
◆◆◆ Andrea C. Moore, RN/BSN Critical Care Registered Nurse Intensive Care Unit @University of Maryland Medical Center "I am the Mother of three daughters 21, 12, and 3 years old. Balancing work as a front liner with children can be quite difficult because I am very passionate about my profession and being a mother. Our lives have been uprooted and we now are a divided household. My children are gone during the week so I can work at the bedside of patients helping fight this virus and being there to comfort them during this time. We rely on Face Time moments to pull us closer together. My biggest fear was to bring something home to my family, so I take precautionary measures before I even get home by showering and changing my clothes before I leave a 12 hour shift from the hospital. I allow 24 hours in isolation to see if any symptoms appear before I allow myself around others. This time has been something unexplainable and with the love and support of family and recognition from everyone makes this challenging situation much easier and gives you just an added boost in momentum and confirms that you’re doing the right thing. I’m also currently enrolled in Walden University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program. Balancing work and school would not be possible without the help of their wonderful professors and staff. They have been very understanding of their students and our obligations as front line workers. With their support and continuous encouragement I have been able to see the light at the end of the tunnel and press my way forward. My advice to other mothers on the frontline is to find time for yourself during this pandemic and reward yourself with anything small or big to keep you going. Remember this is an emergency in a pandemic so always protect yourself so you can take care of your family and patients safely." 10 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
Britney Wallace Paramedic- Charles County Department of Emergency Services “During this pandemic I had to make a tough decision. I made the decision about two weeks into it all. I had to ask my brother and mom to keep my kids. I had to take the extra precaution to keep them safe. I went grocery shopping. I tried to clean and sanitize everything. Self-Care has been hard. During this pandemic, I interviewed out of my internship and became a cut loose Paramedic. During my first two weeks, I had a pulse-less baby and then a coworker, that I went through the academy with passed away. In between I would walk about 2.5 miles every other day; then I rolled my ankle and recovered from that. I bought a blender and started making smoothies to add to my kind of healthy eating habits. Now for self-care, I will be getting back to journaling, finding YouTube yoga videos or hip hop dancing, face timing my kids, and singing to what music feeds my soul. My advice to other mothers: YOU ARE AMAZING. Keep following your dreams through it all. This time will pass. Our kids will understand when they get older. IT IS OKAY TO CRY, SCREAM, and YELL. Most importantly, IT IS OKAY, NOT TO BE OKAY.”
◆◆◆ Eme Nelly Silva DMD, FIDIA FAACP Airway/Cosmetic Dentist/Advanced Dentistry of Collegeville, PA Sadly, the world has stopped and changed the lives of many who are gone. The pain and sorrow will never be forgotten. I have two close friends that are in complete recluse because of sadness. I feel for them and many others like them. I have used this time to plant and grow. As a mom, wife, dentist and business owner, I am so intentional in every aspect of my life. I am truly blessed. I am truly blessed for the little things and the big things; the taste of life is so much sweeter. I have the opportunity to spend time with my two kids and husband; we often sit outside to watch the kids fly their kites. I have connected with my team- my employees to lessen their anxiety and to ensure them that we can do bigger things when we get back. I have created an Instagram workout session for everyone to get reinvigorated to lose the extra 15 pounds. I am ready to be the leader of my groups to create an opportunity. I am more connected with my sorority sisters. It can be anxiety filled emotion when we think we have to go and treat potential people that could be compromised. As a healthcare professional it is no different than what we see every day; we are exposed to infectious diseases that can compromise our lives. It’s what we do. We have to be prepared and smart. I love making an impact in the lives of many.
◆◆◆ www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11
Wait by Faith, Not by Sight: Shelia’s Story In 2010, Shelia Daniels started to feel unwell during her workday. It wasn’t until days later when she went to the hospital for shortness of breath that she discovered that she was having a heart attack. Through further testing, she was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. “I had three clogged arteries, the left side of my heart was enlarged, and my ejection fraction was at 15 percent. I was surprised,” she said. What also shocked her was the grim news her cardiologist gave her. After many efforts, she was told there was nothing else he could do to help her. “I felt like I was dying,” she said. His recommendation for her to see Dr. Feller, a cardiovascular disease and ventricular support specialist at the University of Maryland Medical Center, was her saving grace. Feller introduced her to the option of heart transplantation. “I never thought of getting a heart transplant. I never knew that was an option, “ she said. Daniels was put on the transplant wait list and her journey began. In 2014, she was invited to the Transplant Journey Conference held by the Transplant Recipients International Organization(TRIO) Maryland. There, she met transplant recipients, medical professionals, and others waiting for a transplant. Gaining more knowledge and support from the transplant community helped quell her fears. “Being there I felt more comfortable about the donation and transplantation process. They gave me hope and I started to live again,” she said. With this newfound perspective on life, Shelia became more active in her church, Set the Captives Free Outreach Center, strengthening her faith despite her health issue. “My faith lets me know every day that God is in control and I’m going to be alright,” she said She also got involved with TRIO Maryland and volunteers with The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland. As a volunteer, she helps educate the community on the same things she was once unaware of about donation and transplantation. “Through organ donation, you can save so many lives, “says Shelia. “There’s so many myths and I wish “Th people knew the truth.” Today, Shelia Daniels is still waiting for a heart transplant. And despite the struggle she faces with her health, she continues to live a purposeful life. “I try to live my life every day to please God and let somebody know the goodness of God.”
Like Shelia, there are over 3,000 Marylanders currently waiting for a transplant. Learn how you can give the gift of life one day at donatelifemaryland.org.
12 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
First Baptist Highland Park “A Bible Believing, Christ Centered & Spirit Led Congregation” 6801 Sheriff Road, Landover, Maryland 20785
Tel: 301.773.6655, Fax: 301.773.1347, Web: www.fbhp.org
JOIN US FOR OUR ON-LINE WORSHIP ONLY (during the COVID-19 pandemic)
WEDNESDAY – 12:00 NOON SATURDAY – 6:30 PM SUNDAY – 7:30 AM AND 11:00 AM www.fbhp.org AND www.lightsource.com. call in to (302) 202-1102, conference code 192857
Weekly Worship Schedule
Saturday: 6:30 PM Sunday:7:30 AM & 11:00 AM, 9:30 AM - Sunday Biblical Institute Wonderful Wednesdays With Jesus: Worship & The Word, 12:00 PM & 6:45 PM www.gracenglorymagazine.org 13
woman’s perspective
A Mother's
LOVE With Mother’s Day approaching us this month and with our new stay home act, it has brought a new appreciation for teachers. I’m a mom and a teacher, and I saw myself rise to the occasion and perform duties that I only get to work on in small increments. Assisting your children in a couple hours of homework is one thing, but having to teach a lesson has taken on a new depth. I’ve found myself saying to myself, "I know you don’t act like this at school. So why am I getting all this negative feedback." My daughters have cried more at home with me teaching them than ever before. It’s been both rewarding and exhausting at the same time. It has been a sacrifice of my patience and peace of mind. People have often shared with me that I have the patience of Job. These last couple of weeks, I’ve seen more Peter then Job! Parenting is rough and sacrifice is what we do for the common good. I’ve sacrificed so much for my children, but they are my children. If I don’t show them that I will put everything and anything before them then who will. It’s my responsibility to be that to them and for them. They are a product of what I created, and it’s my job to sacrifice. Just like Jesus was a sacrifice for us, we have to sacrifice things for them. 14 May May2020 2020| Grace&Glory | Grace&Glory 14
Let’s look at Mary the mother of Jesus. Her sacrifice started with the conception stage of Jesus’s life. She trusted the Holy Spirit, not knowing what Joseph would do once he found out that she was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. She knew that she was chosen by God to carry and nourish His son, Jesus. The sacrifice continued when she witnessed him dying on the cross to save the lives of others. As a mother, I don’t want to imagine the depth of that pain at all. There is a parable in the Bible concerning King Solomon where he gave an order to saw a baby in half, because he didn’t know which mother to believe. 1 Kings 3:16-28 reveals to us that the real mother of the boy was willing to give up her son to another so that his life would be spared. Why do we sacrifice? We sacrifice because we love. A mother’s love causes the mother to make difficult decisions for their families. We may not understand why those choices were made, but trust me, they were made with their child(ren) in mind. Just like Mary and the woman in 1 Kings, women all around the world continue to make silent sacrifices for their children. They don't brag about what they give up, and in most cases the child will never know all that the mother sacrificed on their behalf. I want to salute all the mothers who continue to do their best to be good mothers to their children. Your sacrifice doesn't go unrecognized. You are seen. You Pastor Rhoda Turner are loved. You are valued. You are Christian Faith Fellowship Church appreciated. Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org Happy Mother’s Day!
Being Still
to your good health
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10 We are in a season that is unprecedented. We have been sequestered from the world around us not by the court system, but by the unseen and previously unknown virus called COVID-19. Our world and community is experiencing something that hasn’t happened since 1918. This experience has left us anxious, depressed, lonely, and confused. Many of us have had our faith tested in ways we thought would only happen when we lost a loved one or faced a divorce, an addiction or some other painful time in our lives. This pandemic has pushed all of our buttons at once and has caused us to question our level of faith, our mental health and our financial stability. With this in mind we all need to focus on our priorities. Now is the time to put in place a few habits that would insure our wellbeing in a crisis and beyond; building resilience to make it through the storms of life is key. What we learn now can help us as we face trials and tests in the future. Creating and maintaining new ways of connecting and making meaningful rituals are essential. Staying connected to your family and friends is something we once took for granted but realize is more important than we once imagined. There are ways we can keep our mental, physical, and spiritual health a priority by having a routine that is holistic and integrates mind, body and spirit. We know that life is precious and this virus has shown us that we cannot take our relationships with family, friends, coworkers or our faith for granted. Tomorrow is not promised and we want do our best to be in fellowship with one another and to express our love and concern beyond this crisis in our world. Find those places and experiences that bring you joy and plan to do all of these as time and resources allow. Learn what you can as our world takes a pause. Being still may be the best thing we have done in a long time. Make the most of it. Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  15 15 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 
monthly manna
Let me ask you a question. How many times have you quoted the phrase, “Fake it until you make it?” For me, I have heard it in conferences, church services, and plenty of phone conversations. I remember giving people hi-fives and thinking that’s exactly what I needed to do. Well, that all changed when I decided to TAKE AIM! When you take time to sit still and think about it, do you really want to “fake it until you make it?” Do you really want to cut corners, give a false impression and even risk your integrity and character? I have come to the realization that sustainable success comes from hard work. If I fake it until I make it then what?
Listen, your labor, hard work and commitment is not in vain. When I was a trainer for Bed Bath and Beyond, we use to tell employees, “Don’t over promise and under deliver.” I recently decided to add an additional service to Carenda Deonne LLC to help newly entrepreneurs in their marketing and branding. I feel confident in this new addition because I know I put in the work. I spent four years at the Fashion Institute of Technology with my degree in marketing, I am an entrepreneur, author and business women who has had to utilize marketing objectives on a consistent bases. If I “faked it until I made it” I would not be able to share my experience or expertise because I would have nothing to show for it!
When I accomplish things in life, I want to tell people my true story that includes the struggles I went through to get to where I am. Have you ever looked at the definition of fake? Well, let me unpack that for you. Fake is defined as not genuine, counterfeit, forgery or sham. So do you really want to fake it until you make it at the cost of deception and deceit? I know I don’t want to. So can I propose that you change your thought process? Be very mindful what you are saying and agreeing to in this season of your life. I would rather you be honest about your accomplishments and or success even if it takes you ten years to get there. Faking it until you make it might get you there faster, but so will the unraveling of your fall.
If you want to truly shine, it takes more than words. Your words have to align with your actions and you should have something to show for the hard work that you have put in. So please take aim, don’t fake it until you make it. It is a very dangerous phrase that will not sustain you. It is a phrase that will not fulfill you. It is a phrase that will only lead to disappointment. It is time to put in the work, let your words align with your actions, stay true to your convictions and stop lying to get ahead. Let’s get ready to taste Carenda Deonne the real meaning of www.carendadeonne.com what making it is all admin@carendadeonne.com 888-473-2221 about! You are worth it Twitter @cdpgem and so is your destiny!
It is time to build honorable character. Let me say that again! It is time to build honorable character. It is time to be honest about who you are and what you can deliver; with the resources you have. If you are ready to desensitize from that phrase, get ready to put in the work. Get ready to invest in you. Get ready to stand on your convictions. Get ready to be true to yourself at all times, even when there is temptation.
16 16 May May2020 2020| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
Facebook @carendadeonne
Instagram @carendadeonne Live life on the promise Blog @ www.carendadeonne.wordpress.com of IMPACT!
#livelifeonthepromiseofimpact
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  17
trinkets to triumph
A Mindset Like Mary, the Master’s Mother
Mary, Jesus’s mother, manifested our Master! May is the month to celebrate mothers and what better way to pay tribute to all of the mothers than to look at the life of Mary, the Messiah’s mother, and encourage mothers with the fact that when you are open, obedient and about your Father’s business, miracles, signs, and wonders will follow. Can you imagine Mary’s mindset when the angel, Gabriel, told her that she was going to give birth to the Savior of the world? Imagine all of the thoughts that were going through her head. She probably was like, “Me, the Messiah’s mother?” Even with what most likely seemed like a mound of emotions in Mary’s head, her love for God made her answer be, “May everything you say about me come true.” (Luke 1:38 TLB) Mary immediately made up her mind that she would be available for God to use to birth the Messiah, she was open to receive the anointing to do so, and she was confident that she was able to achieve this great feat if God said it to be so. Mary believed Gabriel when he told her, “With God nothing is impossible,” (Luke 1:37) and made herself available to be used by God. God had a plan for Mary and she was willing to play a part in the plot to conceive and give birth to Jesus, your Master, Messiah, and the Mighty One. She agreed to God’s will and was available to fulfill the prophecies of the coming Savior. She had faith in the Father so much that she trusted Him with her life. Mary knew the potential consequences of Joseph finding out that she would have a baby that wasn’t his. She knew only God could work a situation out that was worthy of withdrawal from the wedding of her dreams and the possible doom and death she would experience under normal circumstances. Mary had a mind over matter attitude and stuck to her stance to stand on God’s word and believed and stood on her statement, “May everything you say about me come true.” (Luke 1:38 TLB) Mary trusted God’s word and His plan for her life. She used her faith instead of her fear and was determined to be Mary, the Master’s mother. Many didn’t have Mary’s faith in God. There are examples in the scripture where unbelief was displayed instead of believing God’s messages of the miracle of motherhood. Some people didn’t believe God’s messengers like Mary did. Sarah laughed when she heard that she would have a baby (Genesis 18:9-15). Zechariah doubted this deed could be done (Luke 1:18). Sarah and Zechariah’s reactions didn’t match Mary’s mantra, “May everything you say about me come true.” (Luke 1:38 TLB) Imagine Mary’s mindset when she had to birth her baby in a barn and years later witness and watch Him be beat and then bleeding hanging on a cross to die for the sins of the world. Imagine the strength it took for Mary to refrain from coming to her son’s rescue. Mary’s mindset and only consolation in this situation was that He had to go through this suffering in order to save the world from sin. The love of a mother made Mary stay and witness Him suffer when most abandoned Him during His time of anguish. She knew His suffering would be the world’s salvation. You can use Mary as a mentor in believing that God can do miracles, signs, and wonders in your life when you obey His word. Mary was able to witness Jesus’s first miracle when He turned water into wine at a wedding when the wine ran out (John 2:1-11). She told the servants to, “Do whatever He tells you to do.” (John 2:5) She knew for a fact that He was capable to perform a miracle if they did what He told them to do. What is God telling you to do? Like Mary found favor with God (Luke 1:30), His favor is on you too. God is speaking to you and letting you know that He has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). Like Mary, be open, obedient, and available for God to use. Let your response to His call on your life be, “May everything you say about me come true.” (Luke 1:38 TLB) Your end result will be, “Blessed is she that believed for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:45) Match Mary’s mindset and give God a praise in Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com advance for your performance as a result of His power! 18 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
health matters
Coping Through Your Grief On Mother's Day It’s Mother’s Day. For many, it’s a time of joy and laughter even in the newly devised virtual world we live in. We traditionally gather with family to celebrate the matriarchs that undergirded our families. Mothers reflect on their children. Mothers cherish the moments when their children take the opportunity to honor them. The celebration of Mother’s Day is reciprocated generationally. Mothers acknowledge their daughters with children. Children celebrate their mothers, grandmothers, and those that serve as mother figures in their lives. However, the loss of a mother or child can change the perspective of a Mother’s Day celebration. The loss of a mother or child will change your world forever. Mother’s Day is just one of many days that make that loss feel even more profound. Bereaved parents and children may feel angry, cheated, heartbroken, or all of these at once. Whether it’s the first or the fiftieth Mother’s Day, the feelings of loss can be devastating. Remembering those that we have lost on Mother’s Day can be bittersweet. When you’re fortunate enough to have an affectionate and nurturing mother, you never stop craving her kind of love. Individuals often explain that losing a child is like losing a part of themselves. These losses create a void in your life. For many, the day becomes about just getting through. Obviously, there is no replacement for your mother or child, but there are constructive ways to deal with the day that might make you feel closer to their memory and to the people in your life. As friends and loved ones, we need to develop ways to effectively support those that may be grieving during Mother’s Day. We need to understand that some may choose to retreat and try to forget the day altogether. You can support your loved ones that choose this method of coping by not forcing them to go out. Send a text message to say you are thinking about them. Deliver a basket of food or flowers to their doorstep. Allow them the space that they need to cope with their grief. If you are the one that is grieving over a loss, be selective of the T. V. programs you watch. Mother’s Day themed advertising and
programming can have a profound effect on those hurting from loss. Limit your time on social media sites. Skip the Mother’s Day brunch, if you are prone to crying and extreme sorrow on Mother’s Day. Understand that your emotions may seem uncontrollable. Your behavior can move from laughter to crying depending on the memory you are experiencing. Do not feel guilty over any emotions you may feel. Plan a constructive and time-consuming activity to redirect your grief. Plan the day to work in the garden, cook meals for the upcoming week, or clean out your closet. Put on your headphones, get to work, and before you know it the day will be almost over. Talk about your mother or child at your comfort level. Share fond memories of your mother with your children. This activity reaches across generations and provides you with the perfect opportunity to bring your mother into your relationship with your kids. It will help you and your children to feel close to her memory. Donate to a local charity in the memory of your child. Doing something for others is a great way to pay tribute to your child’s memory. Create new traditions. This can make the day a special one. Spend the day doing something your child or mother would like. Maybe it’s fixing their favorite meal, or visiting a place they enjoyed. While there are no clear cut ways to cope with the loss of a mother or child. There are ways to ease the pain Dr. Denyce Watties Daniels of grief that the day may bring. Assistant Professor Have faith in God. Believe that College of Health Professions God is present in your time of Coppin State University sorrow and grief. Acknowledge DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu God’s presence. His love will healthytips 025@gmail.com strengthen you. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 19
body basics
Does Having A Strong Immune System Help Prevent Viruses? Why is improving your immune system so important, especially now! God has designed our body in such a magnificent way that we are able to fight off so many colds and viruses without us realizing it. Our immune system is so awesome that even when we encounter bacteria because of carelessness, it’s fighting for us. Kind of what God does for us. But, sometimes because of our lifestyles, we can be our own worst enemy in weakening our immune system. Here are some reasons how: • Uncontrolled Stress • Excessive Smoking and Drinking • Poor Eating Habits • Being Overweight and Obesity • Lack of Rest and Sleep These things will weaken our immune system and when that happens, a virus has a better chance to invade our body which can cause us to become sick. When our immune system is overstressed, the body has no defense and we will start to show symptoms such as fatigue, running nose, cough and fevers. It’s at that point we need to combat a cold or virus based on what is prescribed by a pharmacist or doctor. In some minor cases, we can use over the counter medication to fight off such illness. 20 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
Every cold and virus impacts the body differently, so we have to make sure we are approaching it in the right way. My whole fitness philosophy has always been to keep our immune system strong to prevent any cold or virus from attacking our bodies. No entry allowed!!! God has already done His part with providing us with the greatest machine every created. It’s up to us to take care of ourselves. Let’s Build a Strong and Healthy Immune System Our first line of defense is to choose a healthy lifestyle. Following general goodhealth guidelines is the single best step you can take toward naturally keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Every part of our body, including our immune system, will work for us when we give it the love and support it needs. Now here are some things we can do to make sure our immune system is fully charged and equipped when we’re battling against a virus, including COVID-19. • Don't smoke. • Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables. • Exercise regularly including cardio
and resistance training. • Maintain a healthy weight. • If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation. • Get adequate rest and sleep. • Take a daily multi-vitamin. • Drink plenty of water. • Increase your vitamin C intake. Having a healthy immune system is always in our best interest, especially during this global pandemic. It is essential that we take all precautions to keep our immune system and body ready to fight this battle. We declare that it is already done in Jesus name! Be Safe and Be Healthy.
CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS,
Fitness Experts Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  21
VISION Where there is no vision... PROVERBS 29:18a
NEW SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr., Pastor
Worship Opportunities SUNDAY • 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. (as scheduled)
Mid-Week Worship
Early Morning Prayer DAILY • 6:00 a.m.
Educational Ministries
WEDNESDAY • 7:00 p.m.
Saturday Church School • EACH SATURDAY, 9:00 a.m. The Carter School of Music • MONDAY-SATURDAY
Holy Baptism
Broadcast Ministries
FOURTH SUNDAY • 5:30 p.m.
Holy Communion
FOURTH SUNDAY • 6:00 p.m.
Sunday Morning Service • Live Stream, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. via our website newshilohbaptist.org Sunday Morning Joy • Sundays, 8:00 a.m. -12:00 noon, Magic 95.9 FM Grace & Glory • WMAR, 5th Sundays, 7:00 a.m.
2100 North Monroe Street • Harold A. Carter Way • Baltimore, Maryland 21217 Phone 410-523-5306 Fax 410-523-9812 Email info@newshilohbaptist.org For more information visit us online at www.newshilohbaptist.org
A Church Determined to Live with Christ 22 May 2020 | Grace&Glory
www.gracenglorymagazine.org  23