2025_Jabez_Summer by greatersjc

The Jabez Report is published by The Magazine Ministry

Greater Saint John Cathedral 11425 Old Marlboro Pike

Upper Marlboro, MD 20772

301.574.5100

www.saintjohn.net

Bishop Kevin V. Gresham Sr., Senior Pastor

The Jabez Report reserves the right to edit, change or exclude any article or portion thereof that is deemed inappropriate, contrary to the mission of spreading the good news of Jesus Christ, and encouraging or winning souls to the ministry.

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Magazine Ministry

Executive Editor

Bishop Kevin V. Gresham Sr.

Editor

Sylvia Tyson

Editorial Board

Bishop Kevin V. Gresham Sr.

Sylvia Tyson

Janice Shields

Pastor Christina Williams

Brother Tony P. D. Williams

Photographs

Photography Ministry

Design/Layout/WEB Designers

Deaconess Wynnice Pointer-Napper

Minister Melissa Monroe

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Articles for inclusion in the Fall Edition 2025 issue are due by, September 14, 2025. If you have an article to contribute; business advertisement; testimony or have reached a milestone in your life; i.e., retirement; birth of a child; graduations or other accomplishments, please forward this information to: thejabez_report@saintjohn.net

A Message from our Bishop

Bishop Kevin V. Gresham Sr.

Jesus Is st Ill My Cha MpIon

Recently, I ministered a message entitled “Jesus Is My Champion . ” It was based on the Scripture John 21:25 (NKJV):

25And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.

The idea is that Jesus had done so much for the people that, if everything were written in books, the world would not be able to contain them. Then it dawned on me: John was referring to what Jesus had already done—not even considering what He is currently doing or what He will do in the future.

Now, if the world could not contain what Jesus did in just three years of His earthly ministry, what would we do with the record of what He is doing right now and what He will do in the days to come—acts so staggering that they defy documentation? Are you ready for this?

I believe the reason the Lord did not allow John to end his writings with a definitive conclusion, but instead left the door open for future possibilities, is because of two missing elements:

1. The date the Lord created you and

2. The date and circumstances when you found Him.

I believe a day is coming in the throne room of God when He will open the book and show you your name. Now, with John, we can all say together Amen .

By Sister Sylvia B. Tyson

Do you want the divine nature in your life? True Christians, having received God’s Holy Spirit, are given a measure of that divine nature . This is one of the Bible’s most precious promises. On the day of Pentecost, the Apostle Peter stood before thousands to preach . Acts 2:38-39 (NKJV): 38Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the [a]remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.

Luke 14:28 (NKJV) says For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it —“ The core message emphasizes the importance of planning and counting the cost before committing to something significant, particularly following Jesus. Discipleship requires serious consideration and commitment, as it may involve sacrifices and challenges.

2nd Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) says “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power of love and of a sound mind.” Without God’s Spirit, we cannot inherit His Kingdom. Through God’s Spirit, your human nature can change and you can truly begin to learn how to obey God and follow His ways. Romans 5:5 (NKJV) says “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Worldly hope is on irrational thinking, empty vanity, a humanistic philosophy and man’s deceitfully inspired prospects, resulting in disappointments, frustration, confusion and shame. However, Christian hope is an altogether different principle rooted in God’s trustworthy goodness

and the gracious promises of our Heavenly Father. Christian hope is on the never-failing Word of God and His many promises.

Romans 5:6-10 (NKJV) – says “For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners. Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His Life.” Yes, God’s awesome promise is that He will save us through the living Jesus Christ—our great High Priest who intercedes on our behalf .

The “faith chapter” of the Bible, Hebrews 11, tells us of God’s faithful servants who persevered in their faith despite dangers and obstacles all around them . What did they have in common? They were “strangers and pilgrims” in a society that mostly neglects or rejects the true God. They lived as “ambassadors” of the Kingdom of God. Though they had not yet received God’s ultimate promise—resurrection into the Kingdom of God as a very member of His Family—they received the promises that came by their faith.

Today, as Christians, we too can and should—and must —claim God’s promises. Those promises are not just for the heroes of faith you read about in your Bible— they are also for you! Search your Bible daily, and as you draw closer to God, thank Him for the many great and priceless treasures He wants you to claim!

By Minister Melissa Monroe

Genesis 2:1-3 (NKJV): “Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.”

The Importance of Resting

Many people may view getting good rest as unimportant or unnecessary. It is easy to get so wrapped up in work, school, sports, friendships, games, social media and even the holidays that we forget to rest. We keep ourselves so busy that we often neglect to return to our much-needed source of rest.

Johns Hopkins Medicine emphasizes the importance of rest and sleep for overall health and wellness . Rest can help people recover from illnesses, injuries and make people feel more energized and productive.

There are Some Major Benefits of Resting

• Brain Health: Sleep helps with brain plasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and process information. It also helps remove waste products from brain cells

• Immune System: Sleep helps boost your immune system, which can help you fight off illness and infections

• Energy: Sleep provides energy for your body, brain and it helps with muscle and tissue recovery.

• Mood: Sleep deprivation can make you irritable and affect your mood.

• Memory: Sleep helps consolidate memories, both short-term and long-term.

• Recovery: Rest can help you recover from illness, injury or burnout.

• Weight Loss: Sleep can help you eat fewer calories. All of these things depend on us obtaining the proper amount of rest .

A Short Story I talk with my oldest daughter, Sharis, every morning while she drives to work. I can always tell when she has slept for at least nine hours. Anything less than nine, “Whew!” Seriously, she sounds like a bear. Her voice actually grumbles. She is very irritable, yelling and laying on her horn at drivers, pedestrians, dogs and cats. If it is moving, she has something to say about it. However, her voice has a smile when she has had her nine hours. Can you imagine that? She toots her horn to allow drivers to cut in. It is amazing! I often joke with her that she definitely needs to get nine hours of sleep. Seriously, I am a witness to the power of rest in our well-being. Sharis confirms it daily!

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God declared, after six days of creating the earth and the universe, that the entire seventh day was a holy day of rest - the Sabbath. God gave it to us as a gift to return to Him and find rest. There are three primary forms of rest on the Sabbath, each connected to the others and designed to keep us in healthy relationships with God.

1. Physical 2 . Mental 3 . Spiritual

1. Physical Rest

God knows our bodies better than we do. He designed them! He designed our bodies to have proper sleep, nutrition and exercise. Our bodies need rest from hard work to regain energy and strength. When our bodies do not have the proper amount of rest, the mental and spiritual aspects of our lives can start to fall apart.

A great example of the importance of physical rest is found in 1st Kings 19 Elijah was terrified and discouraged. People who wanted to kill him chased him! God sent an angel to Elijah, who told him to eat, drink and rest to strengthen him for his journey. Elijah did exactly that and did great things for God.

2. Mental Rest

It is easy to define work as something that only labors your body, but there is much more to work than that. We know that even the leaders of the Old Testament rested on the Sabbath. For them, resting their minds is a need. Have you ever felt mentally exhausted after a hard test or a long day at work? Our brains need rest, too! Anxiety and depression are more likely to occur when our brains are constantly stressed and working.

Be sure to give your brain a break by spending time on something that does not require intense processing. Even today’s culture tells us that meditation is one of the healthiest forms of mental rest. It is no coincidence that prayer does exactly the same thing. When your brain is full and stressed, sit down, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths and talk with your Heavenly Father.

3. Spiritual Rest

Spiritual rest is often the first form of rest that we forget or cut out, yet we know scripturally it is most important! Nothing should outdo our relationship with God. David explains this in Psalm 27:4 when he says, “One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.” The one thing we should desire more than anything else is to be spiritually resting in God.

The enemy will try to tear us away from God by filling our lives with things that are less important than just being with Him. Remember not to neglect your time with the Lord when you get busy. Do not push aside the spiritual rest that we all need

Most importantly, we need to return to Christ in our rest. The Word says, in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Rest is like recharging your car battery. When your car battery is low, your car may have trouble starting, your lights may dim and your electrical system may experience issues. A low battery can also make your car less fuel-efficient. In other words, it will not function properly. Many of us do not see the value in getting enough rest. However, God knows that without proper rest, we will not be able to function properly and we will struggle to be who He wants us to be. Rest will restore your mind, reinvigorate your body and reconnect your soul to the Father.

Have you had enough rest? Let us take care of ourselves. I love you.

Amen

Common Threads

By Sister Janice Shields

Inthis article, I initially thought to highlight differences between young adults embarking on their post-high school/ college journeys and seasoned adults who are stepping into roles as parents or consultants for their adult children or navigating their transition into retirement. However, God redirected my thought process!

In a time when society often encourages us to distance ourselves, form cliques, negatively emphasize our differences and retreat into our circles, I discovered three “unique” concepts that are foundational for the aforementioned groups. These concepts transcend age and are timeless .

First, self-discovery is the process of examining and understanding yourself, your thoughts, emotions, values, behaviors and desires. Self-reflection is good!

Second, exploration in general terms involves being open to venturing into new experiences, ideas and environments. Stay curious! We are always evolving!

Finally, imagination, which defines the capacity to form mental images, ideas of things and places we have never experienced. There’s an adage/metaphor that says, “if you can dream it, you can achieve it!” Another one advises us to “reach for the stars.” Imagination is endless!

So, regardless of which end of the age lens that you see yourself through/in, remember that God created us and we have far more in common than we often realize .

When You’re Empty, God Is Still Full

By Pastor Christina Williams

Scripture: 2nd Kings 4:1–7 (NKJV)

Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt completely empty—emotionally, physically or even spiritually? Maybe you have stared into an empty refrigerator, unsure of where your next meal would come from. Maybe you have stood in front of an ATM, hoping for just a little relief, only to see “Insufficient Funds” flash across the screen. Perhaps, your heart has been empty, void of hope, joy or direction. If that is you, you are not alone. We have all been there in one way or another.

In 2nd Kings 4, we find the story of a widow who was also empty. Her husband was dead, her debts were high and her sons were about to be taken into slavery. Her life was a series of “empty” moments. She had nothing left; not in her bank account, nor in her pantry and not in her spirit. However, she had enough faith to cry out to the prophet Elisha.

Elisha asked her a simple but powerful question: “What do you have in your house?” She answered, “Nothing at all except a small jar of olive oil.” That small jar may have seemed insignificant to her, but it was all God needed.

Elisha told her to gather empty jars from her neighbors, as many as she could find. Then, in the privacy of her home, she was to pour her little oil into the empty vessels. The oil kept flowing and filling every jar until there was no more to fill. The moment the last vessel was full, the oil stopped flowing.

What a powerful picture! The oil represents God’s anointing, His provision, His presence and His power. The empty vessels are us. The oil did not stop flowing because God ran out; it stopped flowing because there were no more empty places to fill.

God does not need us to be full. He needs us to be available. He is looking for our emptiness, not so He can condemn us, but so He can fill us. The widow did not have much, but she had enough. She had faith and obedience, just what God wanted. She followed Elisha’s instructions without question and God did the miraculous.

So, what does this mean for us today? When we are empty, God is still full. When we feel we have nothing to offer, God reminds us that He is the source of everything we need. When life drains us, He is ready to pour out His Spirit if we just make space for Him.

You may feel like you are down to your last jar of oil, but God sees that as a starting point, not an ending. Let your emptiness become the invitation for God’s overflow. Remember, the oil will always flow where there is room for it.

God In The Fire With You

By Minister Reggie White

Scripture: Daniel 3:24–25 (NIV)

24Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire.” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” 25He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”

Goddoes not always keep us out of the fire—but He always promises to be in it with us. His presence sustains, protects and transforms us through trials.

1. Opening Thought

We all face fires—crises, loss, rejection, pressure, temptation and suffering. When life heats up, we often ask, “Where is God in this?”

2. The Fire is Real

• Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were faithful, but still thrown into the fire.

• Obedience to God does not guarantee a pain-free life.

• Jesus did not say, “You won’t face trouble,” but “take heart, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33) .

3. God

Shows Up in the Fire

• Nebuchadnezzar saw a fourth man walking in the fire.

• Jesus (pre-incarnate or by divine presence) was with them in it

• God may not remove the fire immediately—but He transforms it into a place of revelation .

4. What the Fire Produces

• The men came out unburned—but their ropes were burned off (Daniel 3:27) .

• Sometimes, the fire burns away what has been binding us.

• Their trial led to a public testimony and God’s glory was revealed

5. Your Fire Has a Purpose

• You are not alone

• The fire is not forever.

• God’s presence is greater than your pain.

• You may not see Him, but He is there.

• What the enemy meant for destruction, God will use for refinement.

Reflection Questions:

1. What “fire” are you walking through right now?

2. How have you seen God show up in past trials?

3. What might God be freeing you from through this current struggle?

Challenge of the Day:

Instead of asking God to take away the fire, ask Him to reveal Himself in the fire.

Call or message someone going through a tough time today and remind him or her that he or she is not alone.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You, for You never leave me—even in the fire. When life gets hot and heavy, remind me that You are walking with me through it. Burn off what binds me, strengthen my faith and use this trial to bring You glory. I trust You, not just to deliver me from the fire, but also to be with me in it .

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Over Compliments

Complaints

WBy Brother Tony P. D. Williams

e live in a world that often seems to amplify complaints . From social media rants to workplace grievances, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of negativity, focusing on what’s wrong rather than what’s right . As followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard – to cultivate a heart of praise and gratitude, choosing compliments over complaints

Think about the impact of our words. A complaint, even if valid, can sow seeds of discontent, discourage others and ultimately dim our own light. It’s like a tiny crack in a window that, if left unattended, can spread and compromise the entire pane. Conversely, a genuine compliment can uplift, encourage and bring joy. It’s a breath of fresh air; a ray of sunshine that can transform a moment, relationship and even an entire atmosphere .

The Bible is replete with wisdom regarding the power of our speech and the importance of a thankful heart . Consider Philippians 2:14-15 (NIV): “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a midst of a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.” Here, Paul clearly instructs us to avoid grumbling and arguing He connects this not just to personal piety, but to our witness in the world. When we choose to abstain from complaining, we stand out We become beacons of hope and light in a society often consumed by negativity. Our blamelessness and purity are a direct result of our transformed speech.

Furthermore, Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) admonishes us: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” This verse provides a powerful litmus test for our words: Are they

corrupting or building up? Do they fit the occasion? Do they impart grace? When we offer a sincere compliment, we are actively engaging in “building up” speech. We are giving grace to those who hear, strengthening their spirit and fostering positive connections. In contrast, complaints often fall into the category of “corrupting talk,” tearing down rather than building up

Practical applications:

• At Church – Make it your business to compliment ministry workers who serve from their heart. Complaining can make people feel unappreciated for their hours of dedicated service. As we know, 5% of the people are doing 95% of the work at most churches.

• At Home – Consciously thank your spouse for cooking, cutting the grass, the flowers, or a thoughtful hug. Praise your children for completing their chores, doing well in school and being respectful .

• At Work – Tell your employees or co-workers that you appreciate them completing a task, making coffee, coming in early or staying late. Even though they are paid, it feels good to get kudos.

• At Restaurants or other businesses – Go out of your way to thank the waiter/waitress, cashier or salesperson for their assistance. Also, inform the manager about the outstanding service or product you received.

Choosing compliments over complaints is not always easy. It requires intentionality, self-awareness and a reliance on the Holy Spirit. As we progressively align our speech with God’s word, we will discover the joy of a grateful heart, and become radiant reflections of Christ in a world desperately in need of His light. Let us choose to shine like stars, radiating grace and building up those around us, one compliment at a time

Advancing Educational Equity through Federal Oversight

Submitted By Brother Anthony Simmons, Jr.

The shift from Plessy v. Ferguson to Brown v. Board of Education illustrates the damaging impact of segregation and highlights the vital role Federal oversight plays in education. This perspective supports the idea that eliminating the Department of Education could hinder efforts to resolve racial and economic inequalities, college funding concerns and ideological challenges driven by state-level policies .

Educational equality is a foundation of social justice in the U.S. Over time, landmark Supreme Court rulings have shown the negative effects of segregation and the critical need for Federal involvement Plessy v. Ferguson revealed the flaws of the “separate but equal” concept, while Brown v. Board of Education championed equitable educational opportunities.

Today, discussions about dismantling the Department of Education spark concerns over preserving these advancements . Federal oversight remains essential in fighting discrimination, upholding fairness and ensuring consistent educational standards nationwide . Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) upheld segregation laws under the “separate but equal” doctrine, reinforcing systemic racial inequality, particularly in schools. This ruling entrenched inequities, disproportionately impacts African American students with inferior facilities and opportunities. The effects lingered, shaping disparities in education for decades

While Plessy v. Ferguson illustrates the harm of segregation, Brown v. Board of Education challenged and overturned these inequities, marking a major step forward Brown v. Board of Education (1954) was a landmark in promoting justice in education, declaring that “separate but equal” schools were inherently unequal. By reversing Plessy v. Ferguson, it fostered access to fair opportunities and contributed significantly to the Civil Rights Movement Federal involvement was vital in

combating systemic barriers, ensuring state compliance with constitutional protections

Despite Brown v. Board’s progress, ongoing challenges make Federal intervention, especially through the Department of Education, crucial today. The Department of Education plays a key role in ensuring equitable access to resources and maintaining educational standards For example, the Department of Education ensures funds reach Title I schools, which serve low-income students and supports programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. It reduces discrimination and funds programs vital to students from marginalized groups. Without this Department, disparities may worsen and funding for higher education could decline

While criticisms of the Department of Education exist, its advantages outweigh concerns about bureaucracy and state control . Some critics believe Federal regulations complicate state-led initiatives. However, these arguments fail to address the risks of removing protections that benefit vulnerable communities. Without national oversight, inequalities may grow, reversing progress achieved through cases like Brown v. Board . Acknowledging this opposition is important, but Federal intervention remains essential for long-term equality.

The history from Plessy v. Ferguson to Brown v. Board of Education reveals the importance of Federal action in addressing discrimination and promoting fairness. The Department of Education embodies this commitment by protecting rights, ensuring resources and maintaining standards

Removing the Department would jeopardize decades of advancements, risking deeper inequalities. By maintaining Federal oversight, society can honor past progress and build a future where quality education is available to all ‒ not just a privileged few.

Senior Hour of Power

By Facilitators Min. Minnie P. Rascoe and Sister Theresa Jennings

Senior Hour of Power is an idea of Bishop Gresham. During the pandemic, he wanted to give seniors an opportunity to communicate with other seniors without having to leave home. We meet by phone every Thursday from 12:00pm - 1:00pm. During this time, we have praise time, scripture, opening prayer, song, devotion, words of encouragement, testimonies and closing prayer. Our seniors range from ages 55-92. Each senior is given the opportunity to participate in the program.

We have seniors calling in from New York, Georgia, Virginia, Washington DC, Greensboro, NC, Windsor, NC, Roseville, NC and South Carolina. Sister Theresa Jennings, one of the facilitators for the Senior Connection, connected with a 90 year old senior, who resides in a health facility, and gave her the opportunity to participate with us. Her name is Mrs. Jones and she is appreciative .

The Senior Connection would like to thank each and every person who has given of their time and talent to bless our group .

The call-in number is: 1(712) 432-0190 • Access code:274522#

Let Us Pray!

Prayer for Bishop Gresham and Family

By Sister Theresa Jennings Senior Hour of Power

Heavenly Father, we humbly petition you on behalf of our Pastor, Bishop Kevin V. Gresham, Sr. and family. We thank you for blessing Bishop Gresham with the anointing to serve and shepherd the disciples of Greater Saint John Cathedral for 36 years and pray that his latter years will be greater as you continue to pour out a fresh anointing of your Holy Spirit upon him. We pray that you keep him in good health, mind, body and soul. Grant him spiritual wisdom as he studies, meditate and pray over your Word to lead and counsel the disciples of Greater Saint John Cathedral. We pray for a unified body of disciples, Pastors and leaders to follow Bishop Gresham as he follows you with the vision for Greater.

We also pray for the entire Gresham family, our First Lady Denise and Dishon; we also pray and give thanks for our Executive Pastor Kevin Gresham, II, Callece, Kallie V and Klark. We pray your continued blessings over each of them, grant them the desires of their heart and allow no weapon to be formed against them

Father God we lift up ever disciple of Greater St. John Cathedral and their families we ask that you enlarge our territory, that we continue to walk by faith and not by sight putting our trust in you alone. Help us Holy Spirit, as your disciples of Greater to serve to our fullest capacity and in the spirit of unity. We pray for increase in our faith, family and finances.

We lift up those whose hearts are burden in sorrow and ask that you be the lifter of their heads and comfort them in their time of bereavement .

We pray supernatural healing for all who are experiencing health challenges and ask that you, Father God, extend your healing hand upon every name on the Attacking Cancer Together (ACT) list. Encourage them to know that you are Jehovah Rophe, the Lord who heals all diseases and we are covered by the blood of Jesus. We pray for wisdom, guidance for their healthcare professionals and support of care givers, family and friends. We are praising and thanking you in advance for the names of those who we will soon ring the bell, announcing they are cancer-free.

Father we love you, we adore you and give you all the praise you so rightly deserve.

In the name of Jesus, we pray and say Amen.

A Prayer — God Our Divine Protector

By Sister Dorothy Fairweather Senior Hour of Power

2 Chron. 32:8 – “With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles.” And thepeople were strengthenedby the words of HezekiahKing of Judah.”

Hezekiah’s Prayer

2 Kings 19:14-16 – “And Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers, and read it; and Hezekiah went up to the house of the LORD, and spread it before the LORD. Then Hezekiah prayed before the LORD, and said: “O LORD God of Israel, the One who dwells between the cherubim, You are God, You alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Incline Your ear, O LORD, and hear; open Your eyes, O LORD, and see; and hear the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to reproach the living God.”

2 Kings 19:19 – “Now therefore, O LORD our God, I pray, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You are the LORD God, You alone.”

Father, we ask for forgiveness in all areas of our lives in the name of Jesus.

Matthew 7:7-8 – “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.”

We depend totally upon You as our Creator. We are grateful for Your many blessings; we respond to You in love because You are love We come in faith accepting Your answers

Psalm 34:7 – “The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, And delivers them.”

Father, we pray for divine protection from hurt, harm or any kind of danger, seen or unseen from the youngest to the oldest among us and all others during day or night.

Psalm 31:2 – “Bow down Your ear to me, Deliver me speedily; Be my rock of refuge, A fortress of defense to save me.”

Father, we pray that you remain our hearing and seeing rock of offense when all around us appears to be so different from what we are used to. You are our hiding place during this season of life and we thank you for your ever-presence in peace .

Psalm 31:20 – “You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence From the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion From the strife of tongues.”

Father, we praise You for who You are; we praise You for what You do. We praise You because You are personal; we praise You because You are living and active, all knowing, all wise, and powerful.

Jeremiah 36:26 – “reminds us that you hid Jeremiah and the scribe Baruch from the King Jehoiakim’s men. God had given them the word to forgive them; but Jehoiakim burned the words.”

Though Jehoiakim burned the Word of God that was given by Jeremiah for repentance, redemption, prayer, supplication, petition, forgiveness, healing and protection, it was not used as God intended. Today, we can pray the Word of God back to Him for our hearing and answers by way of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In the name of Jesus, we pray and say Amen.

Prayer for Healing

By Sister Joyce Tillman Senior Hour of Power

Dear God, I have been charged to ask that You rain down on us! First, I say thank You for our beautiful world! I am asking You to forgive us of all our sins. Please forgive us for all things that we have done against Your Word, Your people, animals and all living things dwelling in this world .

Biological scientists estimate that collectively the earth’s 5 to 40 million species of organisms which make up a total of some two trillion tons of living matter, or biomass that You have put in our world depend upon You. Dear God, what a wonderful world You have created for all of us

God, are You unhappy with us for what we have done to Your world and Your people? Please forgive us for we truly do not know not what we are doing. Today, there are 195 nations/countries and 8 billion people leaning and depending on Your promises!

We ask that You shed Your grace and mercy upon all of us; i.e., our families, friends, co-workers and neighbors wherever they may be. Bless, keep and supply their needs! We know that You are God alone. Enter our homes, work places, schools, universities and go on the mountains and into the valleys.

Wherever we find ourselves, go with us and let us know that You are beside us and have not left us. Please forgive us for whatever we may do that is displeasing in Your sight! Give us whatever we need in order to better ourselves and take good care of Your world! We thank You in advance.

My cousin asked me to pray for the world and I was quiet for a moment. Then I said to her “how can I pray for the entire world?” It seems like a monumental task! However, God spoke to my spirit and said, “My daughter, I’m the same God you talk to every day. Nothing has changed! Talk to Me, I am the problem solver, lifter of souls and a burden-bearer. I am all that you need. Just open your mouth and talk to Me. I am here and listening.” I simply said “Thank You God for quieting my spirit and making the weight of the world seem lighter! It is not my burden to bear.”

Always remember, all we need to do is take our cares to God in prayer. I am asking You today, in the only way I know how, to bless and take care of Your beautiful, wonderful world, our people and all that dwells therein!

It’s in Your name, Jesus, Our Blessed Savior, Our God Almighty, that I say thank You for listening and reminding me.

In the name of Jesus, we pray and say Amen.

A Prayer for First Responders

By Brother Lee Knight Senior Hour of Power

O Lord, Protector of those who rush toward danger for the sake of others.

We thank You for the bravery, selflessness, and strength of our first responders firefighters, police officers, paramedics and all who stand between crisis and calm. Grant them clarity of mind in chaos, steady hands in urgency and peace in the aftermath of pain .

Bless their families who carry the weight of silent sacrifice and wait through long hours with hopeful hearts. Wrap each responder in Your shield of safety. Guide their decisions, restore their energy and fill their hearts with courage renewed daily.

Let them know they are never alone. May their service be a light in the darkest moments.

In the name of Jesus, we pray and say Amen.

Getting To Know God

By Pastor Ruth Whitehead Senior Hour of Power

Lord, my God, as I consider all You have done for me from birth until now, my mind reflects on Your written Word. Psalm 139:13–17 (NKJV) – “13For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. 14I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. 15My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them. 17How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!”

Father God, in my infinite mind, I get to know You in the fullest of my existence all Glory and Honor belong to You.

Ephesians 3:14–21 (NKJV) –14For this reason, I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15From whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height – 19to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever.

In the name of Jesus, we pray and say Amen.

Let's Eat

STRAWBERRY LEMONADE POUND CAKE

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup fresh strawberries, diced

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1-2 tablespoons milk adjust for desired consistency

For Garnish (optional)

Fresh strawberries

Lemon slices

Who can resist the sweet, zesty allure of a Strawberry Lemonade Pound Cake? Imagine biting into a slice of moist, buttery cake bursting with real strawberry pieces and bright, tangy lemon—every bite tastes like a cheerful summer picnic . This recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of classic pound cake with fruity, citrusy notes reminiscent of a refreshing glass of strawberry lemonade

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan

2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.

3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined.

6. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix lightly to distribute evenly.

7. Gently fold in the diced strawberries using a spatula, being careful not to crush them

8. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula

9. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with foil if the top starts to brown too quickly.

10 Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and enough milk to reach a pourable consistency.

12. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices if desired

NOTE

Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Don’t over mix the batter to avoid a dense cake.

July

20th – Men’s Day

26th – Young Adult Date Night for Married and Dating Couples

August

3rd – Pastor’s Appreciation 17th – Prayer for Youth

September

16th, 23rd & 30th – Revival 14th – Super Sunday 28th – Founders’ Day

THEME FOR 2025

Think on This:

Dealing with life’s challenges and difficult times can be…well, challenging. In our darkest moments, we often feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to navigate these obstacles. However, the good news is, you are not alone. People have been facing adversity since the dawn of time, and their wisdom can be a guiding light during your own tough times. – Anonymous

Take a moment and realize how blessed you are. – Anonymous The time is always right to do what is right. – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr

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Services We Offer:

Furniture Moving: From single items to entire households, we make it easy and stress-free.

Vehicle Transportation: Safely transport your car or motorcycle to your new location.

The Greater Christian Community Daycare is now enrolling for our 2025 - 2026 School Year. Spaces are available in our 2, 3 and 4 year old classrooms. Tours are scheduled daily. Please call the Daycare on 301-574-0935 to schedule a tour or check us out at gccdc@saintjohn.net.

Hours of operation: Monday ~ Friday 6:00am to 6:00pm

The A.C.T. Ministry (Attacking Cancer Together) is continuing to intercede on behalf of those suffering from cancer; cancer survivors; caregivers; family members of cancer patients and those who support them. If you would like to be included on the prayer list, please use the link shown to complete the form. Information is on our website at saintjohn.net. This prayer opportunity is open to everyone. Please ensure the office has contact information for anyone on the prayer list who wants to receive personal prayer and wellness checks.

Prayer, Praise and Study

On Tuesdays @ 7pm via YouTube . Don’t forget to subscribe and Hit the Like Button .

We are excited to introduce the Care Connection Network, a new ministry dedicated to providing support for individuals facing mental health concerns. In today’s challenging times, it’s more important than ever to prioritize our mental well-being, and we are here to offer assistance and guidance. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, or any other mental health issue, the Care Connection Network is here to help. Our compassionate team is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where you can seek guidance, resources, and encouragement. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careconnection@saintjohn.net or visit us at bit.ly/careconnectionnetwork.

Senior Connection

Calling All

Seniors (young at heart) are invited to join us on Thursdays at 12 noon for prayers, testimonies, and a sermonette.

The call-in number is 712-432-0190 access code 274522#.

Women’s Prayer Call

Join us for our

The D.I.V.I.N.E. Women’s Ministry wants to pray with you on their Thursday Prayer Call at 6 a .m . The call-in number is 712-432-0190 access code 274522#.

Join us on Fridays at 6am for the Men’s Prayer Call. Please use your phone to scan the QR code or click on the following link to join our Google Classroom to get Connected!

The Share Team is in need of many “Angels” to help our church’s disciples and community. The Share basic packages are $25 each month. Also, we gladly accept can or dry goods for the baskets as a welcome addition to the nutritious food that will go on the table for many families in our community! All orders are on a first come first served basis until we run out. You may purchase as many packages as you want! Place your order by email at: share@saintjohn.net. We thank you in advance!

Greater Saint John Cathedral Bishop Kevin V. Gresham Sr., Senior Pastor