Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Equipped With Instructions

Exodus 14: 15-16
15 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on.





In my quest to understand the Bible at 11 years old, I began reading from Genesis with so much excitement no one could contain it. When my teachers would read at school, I felt so much inspiration from the words spoken. When I read at home I felt excitement and confusion. I asked a lot of questions and frustrated a lot of adults. I realized the lessons I received then were designed to carry me through my season as an11 year old. I  had a strong desire to just absorb the Word and to figure out what to do to go to Heaven.



As I read the book of Exodus I could relate as Moses offered up excuses to not move when God instructed him. Moses mentioned his speech impediment. I can remember being pulled out of class because of stammer. I absolutely hate speaking and felt so much anger when my teachers requested that I  read out loud. Certainly they were trying to embarrass me. I could hear the students laughing and a couple of times a chuckle from my teacher.



God never sent Moses without instructions and equipment. The task seemed enormous and Pharaoh was unrelenting. Moses saw the problem and God saw the possibility. How often do we focus on the problem? How often do you feed the problem with our lack of faith?



I know that if I am asked to speak or pray out loud there is a strong possibility that I will stammer. But I resolved many years ago I will not let that stop me. I know to stop, think, continue. When I pray I am speaking to my Father, I certainly can’t let fear get in the way of that. There are people to speak and pray eloquently. It’s a wonderful gift. I am not a speaker, orator or narrator. But I do have God’s word in me. And because of that, I recognize the possibilities of the wonders of God  in my life.



Remember this song?

I ‘m gonna pray when the spirit says pray


And obey the spirit of the Lord.



Prayer Dear Lord, I am thanking you for the possibilities of hope, love and joy in you. You never fail, Lord ; therefore I depend solely on you. I desire wholeness in you Lord knowing you can take any perceived shortcomings and use them to glorify you. For that, Lord I am grateful. ~Amen
16 Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

God Bless Our Children, A Reward from the Lord

Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, children, a reward. Psalm 127:3

My heart is overflowing with a mixture of emotions thinking about the young life of Trayon Martin


GONE…..

Here one moment enjoying the simple pleasure of a walk to and from a store.

Here one moment enjoying quality time with his father.

NOW GONE…..

Yet another life taken and in 2012, we are still seeking justice. I wonder what my Uncle James and my Grandmother Rachael would think if they there here to witness this. This could have been any one of our sons. And it is that fact that troubles my spirit. It breaks my heart that when many look at my husband, my sons, my father, my uncles, my nephews, they appear invisible. Yet in plain sight I see the strength, perseverance, and hard work of engineers, veterans, scholars, educators, lawyers, entertainers and politicians.

I look at my young sons and appreciate yet another teachable moment. As a mother of 3 boys, my husband and I began the lessons early. It’s wasn’t always easy explaining to our sons how some of their teachers, play ground mates, principles, policeman, and coaches will see them. We stressed the importance of being true to themselves and prayed without ceasing that when confronted with racial issues, whether blatant or subtle, that they would handle the situation worthy of the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King.

Yet the words don't always come easy when you look into the eyes of a 5 year, a 10 year, a 15 year, or even a 21 year black man whose very existence is constantly being attacked. Yet, the truth prevails. You my child were made in His likeness and many are frightened because they feel different. You, my son, always hold your head up and your chest out and be proud of who you are! Lord, Lord help us all....

We have to teach our kids early about their worth and their value. We have to show them through our lives how Great God Is. We have to instill in them purpose and positive esteem. It is our responsibility!

Another day has brought us another opportunity to help someone else, the family of Trayon Martin. We have to continue to seek justice. The media storm raining down showers to clear the dust and details are slowly being revealed.
I am praying for the families affected by this tragedy. I am praying for justice and healing and for us to continue to love one another while we can.



Justice for Trayon Martin…

Justice for a sons whose voices has been taken…

Justice for a mother and a father enduring unspeakable pain


Prayer Dear Lord, thank you for the sun rising this morning. We ask that you be with the family of Trayvon Martin and that justice is served for yet another black boy killed. We ask Lord that we allow your word to penetrate our hearts instead of hate. We will continue to give you honor and praise. Amen