No Hidden Agendas

1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 (MSG)

"God tested us thoroughly to make sure we were qualified to be trusted with this Message. Be assured that when we speak to you we're not after crowd approval—only God approval. Since we've been put through that battery of tests, you're guaranteed that both we and the Message are free of error, mixed motives, or hidden agendas. We never used words to butter you up. No one knows that better than you. And God knows we never used words as a smoke screen to take advantage of you.

Even though we had some standing as Christ's apostles, we never threw our weight around or tried to come across as important, with you or anyone else. We weren't aloof with you. We took you just as you were. We were never patronizing, never condescending, but we cared for you the way a mother cares for her children. We loved you dearly. Not content to just pass on the Message, we wanted to give you our hearts. And we did.

You remember us in those days, friends, working our fingers to the bone, up half the night, moonlighting so you wouldn't have the burden of supporting us while we proclaimed God's Message to you. You saw with your own eyes how discreet and courteous we were among you, with keen sensitivity to you as fellow believers. And God knows we weren't freeloaders! You experienced it all firsthand. With each of you we were like a father with his child, holding your hand, whispering encouragement, showing you step-by-step how to live well before God, who called us into his own kingdom, into this delightful life."

Whether witnessing to the lost or ministering to the saved, we are encouraged by Paul’s example to …

a) Recognize our responsibility for the Gospel (vs. 4a).

b) Please God at all times (vs. 4b).

c) Speak with sincerity (vs. 5).

d) Be gentle like a nursing mother (vs. 7).

e) Care about people (vs. 8a)

f) Share our lives with others (vs. 8b).

g) Not sponge off others (vs. 9).

h) Behave like Christians (vs. 10).

i) Exhort, encourage, and implore like a father (vs. 11).

j) Help others walk in a manner worthy of God (vs. 12).

Source: Day 4: Caring Contacts: Living As Christ’s Disciple (http://www.theraponuniversity.org/dm1/dm1.14_day4.html)

A Soldier's Prayer

SOLDIER’S PRAYER
By Dead Prez


I WILL STAY TRUE TO MY SELF.

I WILL ALWAYS BE LOYAL TO THOSE WHO ARE LOYAL TO ME.

I WILL ALWAYS DEMAND RESPECT AND GIVE RESPECT.

I WILL PROVIDE FOR MY FAMILY AND RAISE MY CHILDREN TO LOVE THEMSELVES, AND BE INDEPENDENT, HONEST, AMBITIOUS, AND TRUSTWORTHY.

I WILL SACRIFICE MY PLEASURE FOR MY PURPOSE.

STRUGGLE BUILDS CHARACTER.

I’M NEVER IGNORANT.

I’M GETTING GOALS ACCOMPLISHED.

I WILL TAKE CARE OF MY BODY AND STAY PHYSICALLY FIT.

I WILL TRAIN TO PROTECT MY SELF AND THE ONES I LOVE.

I WILL CONQUER MY WEAKNESSES.

I WILL FACE MY FEARS.

I WILL LEARN FROM MY MISTAKES.

I WILL STAY HUMBLE.

I GIVE THANKS FOR WAKING UP THIS MORNING.

I’M THANKFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY.

MAY THE ANCESTORS WALK WITH ME.

ASHE.

A Poem for Father's Day!

Come Home Black Man

Come home Black man…
You who are searching for truth only to find recycled lies.

Come home Black man...
You who are struggling for release only to be burdened down by the strain of life.

Come home Black man...
You whose cynicism and doubt have bankrupt your faith.

Come home Black man...
You who are brokenhearted, disrespected, and devalued.

Come home Black man...
You who have abandoned your destiny and surrendered to an erroneous fate.

Come home to true love – pure, warm, and complete.
Come home to the everlasting gleam of divine light.
Come home to the ultimate sage and the greatest of all mysteries.
Come home to the grace of forgiveness and true liberation.

Come home Black man...
Come Home!

God is waiting patiently for your triumphant return.


Lynn Pinder © November 2007

Against the Odds!

They said he wouldn't make it.

They said his campaign wouldn't amount to anything.

They said the political machine wouldn't let it happen.

They said America was not ready for him.

They said it was impossible for him to win.

Yet, against the odds -

Barack Obama has become the first African-American, Democratic Presidential candidate and has proved that with God ALL things are possible!

CALL TO ACTION: We Can't Let Our Young People Starve

Dear Friends,

As I watched the news last night, I was moved by the actions of a group of young people from Baltimore who launched a hunger strike as a last effort to force the City of Baltimore to provide $3 million dollars in support of a youth initiative that would employ older youth in Baltimore to tutor young children. These young warriors – the epitome of youth development - are dynamic, articulate, and engaged in a righteous fight for justice. Their actions and behavior are in direct contrast to another group of older youth who also made the news last night for their viscous attack against a young barbering student last week.

As I sat watching the two stories, the urgency in the demands of the young people participating in the hunger strike pulled my heart strings as did the response of our City leaders. I heard the following comments from our City leaders: “The money has been allocated. We don’t have $3 million dollars. We’re willing to work with the young people if they will compromise.” And I wondered why should our young people have to compromise? These young people are our leaders today. Why can’t we – the adults – figure out a way to invest in them?

Although the City of Baltimore may not have the funds to support another youth initiative, it has access to wealthy business partners who might contribute financial support if they were asked. Corporations, production companies, developers, and investors - like the Ritz-Carlton, Struever Bros. Eccles & Rouse, Inc., the Marriott, Constellation Energy, the producers of the WIRE, and HBO - could easily write-off the expense of another youth initiative in Baltimore without it ever having to be a burden on the City’s “rainy day” budget. If one were to do the math, only 20 corporations, production companies, businesses, developers, foundations, and investors would need to contribute $150,000 to support the youth initiative as proposed by the young people on the hunger strike. A sponsorship of $150,000 by 20 corporations, businesses, developers, and investors could easily turn into a win-win situation and an awesome long-term investment for everyone in this city.

As Baltimore transcends into a city of renaissance, its leaders must think outside the box in terms of supporting a variety of viable initiatives to provide positive youth development for the older youth and children of this City. We need to ask our City leaders to rethink their response to these young people. I hope you will join me in taking the following actions in their support:

1. Email and/or call City Council members (the email addresses are above/telephone number is 410-396-3100). Ask City Council to find 20 corporations, production companies, businesses, developers, foundations and/or investors doing business in Baltimore to invest $150,000 to support the youth initiative as proposed by the young people of Peer to Peer Youth Enterprises;
2. Email and/or call the Mayor’s office (the email address is above/telephone number is 410-396-3100). Ask Mayor Dixon to work with the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Business Partnership, other quasi-governmental agencies, and commercial partners to invest $150,000 to support the youth initiative as proposed by the young people of Peer to Peer Youth Enterprises;
3. Forward this email to at least five other people. Ask family, friends, and colleagues to email and/or call City Hall and to forward this email to at least five other people.
4. Pray. Pray that we, adults, step up and take more responsibility for taking action to alter the educational and economic realities of the young people in this City.. Pray for the health and safety of our young people. Pray for more economic and educational opportunities for the parents and caregivers of the youth of this City.
   

We all have a responsibility for enhancing the lives of children and youth in Baltimore. These young people who are participating in this hunger strike have organized and come together with an impressive plan. They deserve to have nourishment for their bodies, minds, and spirits. Let us adults - come together and fulfill our obligation to them.

Sincerely,

Lynn Pinder
http://www.thetakeactionnetwork.com/
http://psalmsofthedaughter.com/


(The pictures above were copied from http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-md.protest31may31,0,5185493.story and http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-md.protest31p120080531053544,0,3884865.photo. These young people are not affiliated with The TAKE ACTION! Network)

Join Dr. Myles Munroe for LEAD SUMMIT 2008 at Restoring Life International Church (www.restoringlife.org) located 401 Reisterstown Road (21208) on Friday, May 16th (7 p.m.) and Saturday, May 17th (10 a.m.) Register online at www.restoringlife.org or call 410-415-6400 to register via telephone !

Praise God! I just self-published my first book, and it has been an extraordinary journey!

While completing my book, I came up with the idea to launch a publishing company (http://www.takeactionpublishing.com/) that would help people minster through writing about the love of God. You can support this writing project by clicking on the Donate Button toward the bottom right of this page. In exchange for any donation you feel moved to give, I will forward you a copy of my newest book, Psalms of the Daughter.

A subsidiary of Create-A-Book Baltimore, TAKE ACTION! Publishing will help aspiring and seasoned authors use online resources to print Christian-themed works of fiction and non-fiction. Additionally, TAKE ACTION! Publishing will also help individuals and organizations document their stories of challenge and/or triumph in taking action against social, environmental, and economic injustices.

This offer to receive a free copy of Psalms of the Daughter is only applicable to individuals who have found their way to my personal website and who wish to sow into TAKE ACTION! Publishing. Please note if you see me in public or visit one of my business sites (http://www.takeactionpublishing.com/ or http://www.thetakeactionnetwork.com/), I will ask you to pay the regular cost for Psalms of the Daughter. Thanks!

God Bless,
Lynn

P.S. - Please pray for healing and restoration to flow in the hearts, minds, and bodies of individuals and families throughout Baltimore, MD!

Growing Pains....

2007 and 2008 have by far been two of the most difficult years for me. Yet, through it all I have probably grown leaps in bounds in my God walk. I have experienced some major professional and personal changes that have pushed me to a place in my faith that I honestly didn't know existed. Through it all, I have to admit that I have learned some amazing things about myself and others. I thought I would share a few with you! Let me know what you think!

• I've learned that being a Christian means different things to different people.
• I've learned that many Black women in management treat other people badly.
• I've learned that many Black women in management suffer from insecurities and control issues that make it impossible for almost anyone, especially other Black women, to walk in their gifts.
• I've learned that when hard times hit life still goes on.
• I've learned the best way to overcome difficulties is to keep pushing for success, even if it is difficult to see a solution.
• I've learned the value of standing up for yourself and speaking out against a wrong situation, even when it seems like you are fighting a Goliath.
• I've learned the importance of forgiveness.
• I've learned that a "Hello" doesn't hurt anybody and to speak even when people don't speak back.
• I've learned that everyone isn't striving for excellence; some people are satisfied with just getting the job done.
• I've learned the power of a smile.
• I've learned that some people are just petty.
• I've learned the power of communication. I've learned how important it is to be able to express your thoughts with confidence and clarity.
• I've learned the importance of creativity, flexibility, and integrity.
• I've learned that life is full of opportunities to continue learning and growing.
• I've learned to cherish play time.
• I've learned to cherish my time of worship and prayer.
• I've learned to have patience with myself and others.
• I've learned that some people may never change.
• I've learned to move on!

"We live by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)

America's Promise

"I realize that some folks are supporting Hillary Clinton and if you are, you still need to read this. To me this photo is a picture of a strong man who, in the face of a setback, is cherishing a moment with the support of a strong woman who is 100% behind him. Together, they are making history. This is the America I want to live in. This is what our families should be like and can be like."

*Author Unknown*

My New Year's Resolution

Happy New Year! I read a wonderful article about resolutions in Our Daily Bread at http://www.rbc.org/odb/odb-01-01-08.shtml.

I have adopted the following resolutions for the 2008 year:

1. To do whatever is most to God’s glory;


2. To do my duty, for the good of mankind in general;


3. Never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life;


4. To study the Scriptures steadily, constantly, and frequently;


5. To ask myself at the end of every day, week, month, and year if I could possibly have done better;


6. To expect more for myself and walk in true faith;


7. To laugh more;


8. To love unconditionally;


9. To hold sacred my body, my mind, and my spirit;


10. Until I die, not to act as if I were my own, but entirely and altogether God’s.

I pray that this New Year brings you infinite joy, peace, and blessings!

Wishing You and Your Family a Merry Christmas, a Happy Kwanzaa, and a Blessed New Year!

Taking A Selah Moment...

*excerpted from the 12/16 reading of Our Daily Bread*


"......take a 'Selah moment' to pause and worship God during the day.

• Be silent and listen to the voice of God (Psalm 46:10)

• Pause from a hectic schedule to be refreshed in spirit (Psalm 42:1-2)

• Interrupt the day to do a spiritual inventory and be cleansed (Psalm 51:1-10)

• Accentuate the joy of God's provision through thanksgiving (Psalm 65:9-13)

• Exalt the name of God for answered prayer in spite of disappointment (Psalm 40:1-3)

• End the day by reflecting on the Lord's faithfulness (Psalm 119:148)"

- Written by Dennis Fisher

My Testimony...

*This video was shared by BrothaAjay at http://youtube.com/watch?v=JXsi290F6b4&feature=related *

MEAN TO BE FREE

don't wanna be half/thing.

don't wanna be less/than/thing.

don't wanna be confined/defined/refined.

don't wanna be inna box.

don't wanna be yawn/okay/but/no/time/for/that/now/thing.

don't wanna be guilt/thing.

don't wanna be screech/thing.

don't wanna be finger/point/thing.

don't wanna be weeping/thing/fussing/thing/cussing/thing.

wanna be free/wanna be free/wanna be free.

twenty-four hours a day/

seven days a week/

fifty-two weeks a year/

straight up, dead ahead,

no breaks, no tears, no fears free!

mean to be free!

mean to be free!

mean to be free...

Written by Pearl Cleage

Thought for Today...

Compassion is love in action!

Lord, when I learn that someone is hurting.
Help me know what to do and to say;
Speak to my heart and give me compassion,
Let Your great love flow through me today.
- K. De Haan

"Ask the Holy Spirit to place someone on your heart to help in Jesus' name. Then take action. Make a difference today. Send a card. Give a gift. Offer a ride. Make a call. Love in deed is love indeed."
-Dave Branon

*Excerpted from Our Daily Bread*

Come Home Black Man...

Come home Black man...

You who are searching for truth only to find recycled lies.

Come home Black man...

You who are struggling for release only to be burdened down by the strain of life.

Come home Black man...

You whose cynicism and doubt have bankrupt your faith.

Come home Black man...

You who are brokenhearted, disrespected, and devalued.

Come home Black man...

You who have abandoned your destiny and surrendered to an erroneous fate.

Come home to true love - pure, warm, and complete

Come home to the everlasting gleam of divine light.

Come home to the ultimate sage and the greatest of all mysteries.

Come home to the grace of forgiveness and true liberation.

Come home Black man ...

Come home! God is waiting patiently for your triumphant return.

Lynn Pinder © November 2007

To My Sisters in the Lord.....

There comes a time in every woman's life when she has to take a close look at herself. Not at her circumstance, not at what she did, not how unfair life is, or at who made you do it. She has to just look at herself...

Have you ever admired a woman who has been through changes in her life? Or have you made up in your mind that she is just messed up? Before you make this mistake, take a closer look. A woman who has endured the most unusual life is someone of wisdom, someone who has been chosen by God to go through things that have made her stronger.

Think of all the great women in the Bible: Mary Magdalene, Ruth and Naomi, the woman with an issue of blood, and Esther, to name a few.

Mary was a prostitute, a very uneasy woman. But by the time Jesus was done with her, she was His closest follower. Esther was unfortunate in marrying an abusive man, but by the time God was done with her, she had married one of the wealthiest men in the land!

Women are so quick to beat the next one down instead of trying to hold her up.

Before you wonder, ' What's up with her?' ask yourself, 'What's up with me?'

That woman could be my mother, sister, aunt, in-law, stepmother, niece, grandmother, great-grandmother, neighbor, friend, or co-worker. That woman could be ME.

Women are the carriers of life, not the channels of death. Let's build and encourage each other, as did Ruth and Naomi. Share this with all the women in your life.

Encourage and love, forgive and forget, and trust that the woman that receives this message will be touched in some way!

*Author Unknown*

A drunken man was in an Oldsmobile they said had run the light that caused the six-car pile up on Highway 109 that night. When broken bodies lay about and blood was everywhere, the sirens screamed out eulogies, for death was in the air.

A mother trapped inside her car was heard above the noise. Her plaintive pleas near split the air, "Oh, God, please spare my boys," she cried! As she fought to loose her pinned hands, she struggled to get free, but mangled metal held her fast in grim captivity. Her frightened eyes then focused on where the back seat once had been, but all she saw was broken glass and two children's seats crushed in. Her twins were nowhere to be seen, she did not hear them cry and then she prayed they'd been thrown free, "Oh, God, don't let them die!

Then firemen came to cut her loose, but when they searched the back they found therein no little boys, but the seat belts were intact. They thought the woman had gone mad and was traveling alone, but when they turned to question her they discovered she was gone.

Policemen saw her running wild and screaming above the noise in beseeching supplication,"Please help me find my boys! They're four years old and wear blue shirts. Their jeans are blue to match." One cop spoke up, "They're in my car, and they don't have a scratch. They said their daddy put them there, and gave them each a cone. Then told them both to wait for Mom to come and take them home. I've searched the area high and low , but I can't find their dad. He must have fled the scene,I guess, and that is very bad."

The mother hugged the twins and said, while wiping at a tear,"He could not flee the scene, you see for he's been dead a year." The cop just looked confused and asked, "Now, how can that be true?" The boys said, "Mommy, Daddy came and left a kiss for you. He told us not to worry and that you would be all right. And then he put us in this car with the pretty, flashing light. We wanted him to stay with us because we miss him so, but Mommy, he just hugged us tight and said he had to go. He said someday we'd understandand and told us not to fuss. And he said to tell you, Mommy, He's watching over us."

The mother knew without a doubt that what they spoke was true. For she recalled their dad's last words, "I will watch over you." The firemen's notes could not explain the twisted, mangled car and how the three of them escaped without a single scar. But on the cop's report was scribed in print so very fine,"An angel walked the beat tonight on Highway 109."

*Author Unknown*

Spoken Word

*The video above was shared by foreverfocused at http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=d967ccc167929e2ee94a*

Condolences to Kanye West and Family

Kanye,

I extend my deepest sympathy to you and pray that you remember to praise Him even in this storm! God Bless!




*This video was shared by henderlovesjesus at http://youtube.com/watch?v=uHdcyue0bSw*

Who Am I?

*The video above was shared by peggydejarme at http://youtube.com/watch?v=ZGU76is9BuY*

Motivation for Today

If the Lord has you on hold... Hold on!

If the Lord has said "NO" to you... Thank Him!

If the Lords is molding your heart and mind... Go with His change!

If the Lord opens doors that you have asked Him to open...Praise Him!

Be blessed wherever you are in your life today!

God has His hands on the situation!


You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)


You say: "I'm too tired"
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)


You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you
(John 3:16 & John 3:34 )


You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)


You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5-6)


You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)


You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)


You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )


You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)


You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)


You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)


You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)


You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)


You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)


*Author Unknown*

Imagine.......

*The video above was shared by Gospelcity at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL6vw5xI0Bg *

Every Soldier Counts

*The video above was shared by Firstfamilyfilms at http://youtube.com/watch?v=60e0qMxSki0 *

Introducing..........

Gospel Jazz by Mark Allen Felton



*The video above was shared by GospelStroll at http://youtube.com/watch?v=21tNUOVh33k.

Supernatural Women's Conference 2007

*The following video was shared by oclamor.com at http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=347926520bfa959f1524&page=73&viewtype=&category=mv

Spoken Word

*The video above was shared by sergio2634 at http://youtube.com/watch?v=fhK6_-ztGKQ *

In Your Eyes.....

In your eyes I see a landscape.
Majestic mountains,
And lush green valleys.
In your eyes I see a journey.
A road traveled,
With many unexpected bends.
In your eyes I see a butterfly.
Caged and unfamiliar,
spreading its wings.
In your eyes I see an ocean,
Whose depths hold untold secrets.
And whose sandy shores bear no footprints.
They say that the eyes are the windows to our souls,
But I believe that the eyes reveal much more.
They reveal our past,

our future,
Our pleasures and pains.
They reveal our dreams,
As well as our fears.
Look deeply enough and you can see,
Our strengths and our weaknesses.
We use our eyes to say,
That which we cannot say.
We also use them to hide
What we do not want to show.
What are you hiding in your eyes?
What is it that you don’t want seen?
There’s no need for shame.
No need to be afraid.
Because…..
In your eyes I see such beauty,
A signed masterpiece of God.
In your eyes I see a puzzle,
Simply searching for it’s missing pieces.
In your eyes I see passion,
Waiting to be fulfilled.
In your eyes I see longing,
To have someone to trust.
My heart can read you,
Better than you think.
It knows your thoughts and feelings.
Because it’s been there too.
It softly sings to you,
As it reaches out in your direction.
Offering you sincere warmth and solace.
Yet you resist its gentle entreaties.
Ignoring that it sees you.
How can you, when I’m looking in your eyes?

*Written by Jeffrey Moore*

http://360.yahoo.com/profile-ZMXM.Bcmc6PFJVIoMXw.pzFUFjxpsOI-?cq=1

Unify or Die Conference

FREE! - Last of Jena 6 FREE!

September 20, 2007 - A Day to Remember Our Collective Action to Save the Lives of 6 Young Men

Support the Jena 6

Parents of the Jena 6

Sign Mos Def's Petition Regarding Jena 6: http://www.petitiononline.com/aZ51CqmR/petition.html

*The following text is excerpted from http://www.colorofchange.org/jena/message.html*

Last fall in Jena, Louisiana, the day after two Black high school students sat beneath the "white tree" on their campus, nooses were hung from the tree. When the superintendent dismissed the nooses as a "prank," more Black students sat under the tree in protest.

The District Attorney then came to the school accompanied by the town's police and demanded that the students end their protest, telling them, "I can be your best friend or your worst enemy... I can take away your lives with a stroke of my pen."1 A series of white-on-black incidents of violence followed, and the DA did nothing. But when a white student was beaten up in a schoolyard fight, the DA responded by charging six black students with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

It's a story that reads like one from the Jim Crow era, when judges, lawyers and all-white juries used the justice system to keep blacks in "their place"--but it's happening today. The families of these young men are fighting back, but the odds are stacked against them. Together, we can make sure their story is told, that this becomes an issue for the Governor of Louisiana, and that justice is provided for the Jena 6. It starts now. Please add your voice:

http://www.colorofchange.org/jena/

The noose-hanging incident and the DA's visit to the school set the stage for everything that followed. Racial tension escalated over the next couple of months, and on November 30, the main academic building of Jena High School was burned down in an unsolved fire. Later the same weekend, a black student was beaten up by white students at a party. The next day, black students at a convenience store were threatened by a young white man with a shotgun. They wrestled the gun from him and ran away. While no charges were filed against the white man, the students were arrested for the theft of the gun.2

That Monday at school, a white student, who had been a vocal supporter of the students who hung the nooses, taunted the black student who was beaten up at the off-campus party and allegedly called several black students "nigger." After lunch, he was knocked down, punched and kicked by black students. He was taken to the hospital but was released and was well enough to go to a social event that evening.3

Six Black Jena High students, Robert Bailey (17), Theo Shaw (17), Carwin Jones (18), Bryant Purvis (17), Mychal Bell (16) and an unidentified minor, were expelled from school, arrested and charged with second-degree attempted murder. Bail was set so high -- between $70,000 and $138,000 -- that the boys were left in prison for months as families went deep into debt to release them.4

The first trial ended last month, and Mychal Bell, who has been in prison since December, was convicted of aggravated battery and conspiracy to commit aggravated battery (both felonies) by an all-white jury in a trial where his public defender called no witnesses. During his trial, Mychal's parents were ordered not to speak to the media and the court prohibited protests from taking place near the courtroom or where the judge could see them.

Mychal is scheduled to be sentenced on July 31st, and could go to jail for 22 years.5

Theo Shaw's trial is next. He will finally make bail this week.

The Jena Six are lucky to have parents and loved ones who are fighting tooth and nail to free them. They have been threatened but they are standing strong. We know that if the families have to go it alone, their sons will be a long time coming home. They will lose precious years to Jena's outrageous attempt to maintain a racist status quo. But if we act now, we can make a difference.

Please add your voice to the voices of these families in Jena, and help bring Mychal, Theo, Robert, Carwin, and Bryant home. By clicking below, you can demand that Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco get involved to make sure that justice is served for Mychal Bell, and that DA Reed Walters drop the charges against the 5 boys who have not yet gone to trial.
http://www.colorofchange.org/jena/

Thank You and Peace,
-- James, Van, Gabriel, Clarissa, and the rest of the ColorOfChange.org team

July 17th, 2007

References:

1. "Injustice in Jena as Nooses Hang From the ‘White Tree,'" truthout, July 3, 2007 http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/070307B.shtml
2. "Racial demons rear heads," Chicago Tribune, May 20, 2007 http://tinyurl.com/yvh7t5
3. See reference #1.
4. See reference #1.
5. "'Jena Six' defendant convicted," Town Talk, June 29, 2007 http://tinyurl.com/ysxtgg
Other resources:
NPR: Searching for Justice in Jena 6 Case (streaming audio) http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=11756302
Democracy Now! - The case of the Jena Six ... http://www.democracynow.org/article.pl?sid=07/07/10/1413220
Too Sense: Free The Jena Six Now http://halfricanrevolution.blogspot.com/2007/07/free-jena-six-now.html
While Seated: Jena Six http://www.whileseated.org/photo/003244.shtml
Nooses, attacks and jail for black students in Jena Louisiana http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/6/28/144445/384
Justice In Jena, by Jordan Flaherty http://www.zmag.org/content/print_article.cfm?itemID=12783&sectionID=30
The Perpetrator becomes the Prosecutor (and other related entries) http://friendsofjustice.wordpress.com/blog/
'Stealth racism' stalks deep South http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/this_world/6685441.stm

TAKE ACTION!

(1) Sign Mos Def's Petition: http://www.petitiononline.com/aZ51CqmR/petition.html

(2) Write a letter to Governor Blanco and District Attorney Reed: http://www.colorofchange.org/jena/

(3) Take A Stand on September 20th with Michael Baisden in Jena, LA in Support of Jena 6: http://www.michaelbaisden.com/Article.asp?id=470156

(4) Pray for Jena 6, their families, their accusers, and the town of Jena.

*The video above was shared by 40acresmule at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMVoV6JMsdA*

My Testimony

*This video was shared by yakwild at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-EGzskcdp0 *

My Testimony

*This video was shared by lightrecords at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBIaDVQ3-lQ *

My Testimony

*This video was shared by clchco at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ricI52X5oVI*

My Testimony

*This video was shared by Jellygar94 at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFx-E4YloKw *

Poetic Deliverance

*This video was shared by P4CM at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6VlxEJCzuA *

Poetic Deliverance

*This video was shared by gasegjesoigp at http://youtube.com/watch?v=8AY7lWG_8H0*

Da' T.R.U.T.H.

*This video was shared by Truthonduty at http://youtube.com/watch?v=VgyaC4X3H48 *

Psalm 139

*This video was shared by salford920 at http://youtube.com/watch?v=cHdQoZiVK9I *

Poetic Deliverance

*This video was shared by todomi at http://youtube.com/watch?v=9Qm0vcbaffk*

Who I Am

What makes me weak? My fears.
What makes me whole? My God.

What keeps me standing? My faith.
What makes me compassionate? My selflessness.

What makes me honest? My integrity.

What sustains my mind? My quest for knowledge.

What teaches me all lessons? My mistakes.

What lifts my head high? My pride, not arrogance.

What if I can't go on? Not an option.
What makes me victorious? My courage to climb.

What makes me competent? My confidence.

What makes me sensual? My insatiable essence.

What makes me beautiful? My everything.

What makes me a woman? My heart.

Who says I need love? I do.

What empowers me? My God & Me.

Who am I? I AM AN AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN!

--Author Unknown

Opened and Closed Doors

*The following text was sent to me by two of my buddies in Christ*

OPENED AND CLOSED DOORS

We need to learn to thank the Lord for closed doors just as much as we do for open doors.

The reason God closes doors is because He has not prepared anything over there for us.

If he didn't close the wrong door, we would never find our way to the right door.

Even when we don't realize it, God directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors. When one door closes, it forces us to change our course. Another door closes; it forces us to change our course yet again. Then finally, we find the open door and walk right into our blessing. But instead of praising God for the closed door (which kept us out of trouble), we get upset because we 'judge by the appearances.' And in our own arrogance, or ignorance, we insist that we know what is right.

We have a very present help in the time of need who is always standing guard.
Because He walks ahead of us, He can see trouble down the road
and HE sets up road blocks and detours accordingly.
But through our lack of wisdom we try to down the roadblocks
or push aside the detour signs.

Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying "Lord how could this happen to me?"
We have got to realize that the closed door was a blessing.
Didn't He say that "No good thing will He withhold from them that love Him?"

If you get terminated from your job - don't be down, instead thank God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves - it might be a better job, or an opportunity to go to school.

If that man or woman won't return your call - it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go). One time a person had a bank he had been doing business with for many years tell him "NO" for a $10,000 loan. The Lord led him to call another bank. That bank approved a $40,000 loan for him at a lower interest rate than his own bank had advertised.

I'm so grateful, for the many times God has closed doors to me, just to open them in the most unexpected places.

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way." (Psalms 37:23)

The mountain top is glorious, but it is in the Valley that I will grow!
Always Remember God gives you...
Enough Happiness to keep you Sweet
Enough Trials to keep you Strong
Enough Sorrows to keep you Human
Enough Hope to keep you Happy
Enough Failure to keep you Humble
Enough Success to keep you Eager
Enough Friends to give you Comfort
Enough Wealth to meet your Needs
Enough Enthusiasm to make you look forward
Enough Faith to banish depression, and
Enough Determination to make each day a better day than the last.

Life must be lived forward but can only be understood backwards.
Commit to the Lord in whatever you do and your plans will succeed. (Proverbs 16:3)

If you love God share this. He will continue to open and close doors for you.

-Author Unknown-

My Testimony

*This video was shared by nomorefear at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jj_UqJv5Rtc*

My Testimony

Christians by Maya Angelou

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.

When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!

Today I Smiled...

Today I Smiled

Today I smiled, and all at once things didn't look so bad.

Today I shared with someone else, a bit of hope I had.

Today I sang a little song, and felt my heart grow light,
And walked a happy little mile, with not a cloud in sight.

Today I worked with what I had and longed for nothing more,
And what had seemed like only weeds, were flowers at my door.

Today I loved a little more and complained a little less,
And in the giving of myself, I forgot my weariness.

*Author Unknown - This poem was emailed to me by one of my cousins*

*This videos was shared by RRaymonDD at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkynTSM1jFw *

A Prayer for the Miners in Utah

Father God,

I come before you today asking for mercy and grace for the miners trapped at the Crandall Canyon Mine in Utah. Lord, your Word tells us that all things are possible through Christ. I ask for safe passage of the trapped miners and protection for the rescuers. Lord, I ask that you send your angels to bring comfort and peace to them, their family members, and friends. Lord, I ask that your Holy Spirit flow in this situation speedily. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!

My Testimony

*This video was shared by koolchrisiangirl at http://youtube.com/watch?v=ns1tPabbSWE *

My Testimony

*This video was shared by jellygar94 at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rSJ5oHqcvs*

Good Advice

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will.

You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken.

You'll fight with your best friend.

You'll blame a new love for things an old one did.

You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and

you'll eventually lose someone you love.

So take too many pictures,

laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.

Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.

*Author Unknown* - The photo and text above was sent to me by one of my email buddies.

My Testimony

*This video was shared by musicmoqul2007 at http://youtube.com/watch?v=dTmWEk9GFNc*

My Testimony

*This video was shared by philwashington at http://youtube.com/watch?v=qSn8rY8Md5A*

Motivation for Today

Philippians 4:6-7 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

I Can Only Imagine

*This video was shared by amstelutz at http://youtube.com/watch?v=S70gwFcSK9k *

Motivation for Today

Proverbs 4 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society

Proverbs 4

Wisdom Is Supreme
Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.
I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.
When I was a boy in my father's house, still tender, and an only child of my mother,
he taught me and said, "Lay hold of my words with all your heart;
keep my commands and you will live.

Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them.
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, [a] get understanding.
Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you.
She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor."

Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many.
I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble.
Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.

Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men.
Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.
For they cannot sleep till they do evil; they are robbed of slumber till they make someone fall.
They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence.
The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
shining ever brighter till the full light of day.

But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.
My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.
Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.

Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.
Make level [b] paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

Motivation for Today

*This video was shared by NarrowPathRecords at

http://youtube.com/watch?v=ikoHxYBHf-4 *

Supernatural Woman Conference 2007

www.supernaturalwoman.org

Motivation for Today

*This video was shared by yakwild at http://youtube.com/watch?v=e-EGzskcdp0 *

My Testimony

*This video was shared by ccsweetstuff at http://youtube.com/watch?v=JVVHLWDym2k *

Spoken Word

*This video was shared by yaquann at http://youtube.com/watch?v=wg1qNOBVpeY*

America for Ghana

*The text below is from an email I received from Carmen Cook*

Dear Friends,

Greetings. I would like to once again invite you to join us on our next annual medical mission and cultural trip to Ghana this coming December 2007. Please refer to our web site for details. (www.americaforghana.org)

Departing on Dec. 8th from JFK Airport. Total cost quoted for two weeks is $3200 assuming we are a group of ten or more. This include air, hotel and ground transportation, and lots of bottle water.

$100 deposits must be forwarded to us by NLT 30 APR 07 to make your group reservation. You may then pay the balance in increments and final payment must be paid by Nov. 1st. respectively.

Please be sure you want to do this before you commit your funds. Once your reservation is done and you change your mind, the airlines will not refund. You will need Yellow Fever vaccination and a Visa. Please let me know any questions or concerns you may have.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Blessings,

Carmen Cook

Founder/President

America For Ghana Foundation

www.americaforghana.org

(386)216-0899

Motivation for Today

Philippians 4:13 --- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flats called Jobs. But, if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, insurance called Faith, and a driver called Jesus, you will make it to a place called Success.

--Author Unknown

Christian Rap

*This video was shared by blueonline6 at http://youtube.com/watch?v=SnHY07XRq10 *

Motivation for Today

*The following text was excerpted from http://blog.christianitytoday.com/giftedforleadership/*

Several years ago, when I was just beginning in ministry, I conducted a workshop at a women’s retreat on the doctrine of vocation—and I was petrified. It was the first time I put together a comprehensive teaching session, the first time I delivered more than a 15 minute speech, and the first time I realized the value of having solid people to surround me when in a leadership position.

Before the workshop began, I shared my concerns with two special women: Ardath and Nancy. Ardath, ever the prayer warrior, prayed with me during the hour-long drive to retreat center and Nancy, a longtime friend, offered me the support of her presence by sitting in on the workshop. Through them, I was able to find the strength and encouragement I needed to move forward through a moment of trepidation to do what God had called me to do.

In Exodus 17, we see a similar thing happened in the life of Moses, albeit on a far grander scale. The Israelites were encountering their first opposition while wandering in the desert. The Amalekites, a group of nomadic raiders, attacked the people of Israel. While Joshua led the troops into battle, Moses, along with Aaron and Hur, watched the battle from a nearby hill. Exodus 17:11 reads, “So it came about when Moses held his hand up, that Israel prevailed, and when he let his hand down, Amalek prevailed.” Eventually, Moses became weary, and so Aaron and Hur responded by holding up his arms until the Israelites were able to finally defeat the Amalekites.

Often, when we think of the leadership of Moses, our minds are flooded with images of his heroic deeds. Moses the statesman, confronting the Egyptian pharaoh and negotiating the release of God’s people. Moses the shepherd, leading the Israelites through the Sinai desert. Moses the conduit of God’s miracles, stretching out his hand to part the Red Sea. Moses the legislator, descending Mount Sinai with two stone tablets containing God’s laws. But Exodus 17 reveals to us another aspect of Moses’ leadership: the willingness to accept the assistance of others.

One of the common temptations in leadership is succumbing to the pressure of having to “have it all together.” We may be tempted to hide our fears and weaknesses, feeling that we need to be strong for others. We may find it difficult to trust others with our insecurities and doubts, believing that this would somehow compromise our integrity as leaders. Such tendencies are rooted in our cultural ethic of self-reliance, and they can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation that will ultimately handicap our effectiveness in ministry. To truly grow as leaders, we must, like Moses, be willing to embrace the support of trusted friends and advisors.

But how can we forge such relationships? Here are three suggestions for how to begin:

1. Taking it to God. Relationships should be grounded in prayer. Pray that God will surround you with godly people and reveal to you those people he has placed in your life to support you. Pray that God will strengthen and bless these relationships.
   
2. Taking risks. Authentic, meaningful relationships require a certain level of vulnerability. When building relationships, be willing to take the risk of being misunderstood or rejected at times.
   
3. Taking time. Relationships don’t happen overnight. Like the carefully cultivated plant, they need space and time to grow. Build space in your schedule for activities and time with friends. Ardath and Nancy, like Aaron and Hur with Moses, held up my “arms” in a time of need. Who’s holding up yours?
   

*The text above was written by Halee Gray Scott*

*This video was shared by nomorefear at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jj_UqJv5Rtc *

Motivation for Today

Hang in There!

"Our present troubles are quite small and won't last very long.
Yet they produce for us an immeasurably great glory that will last forever!"
(2 Corinthians 4:17)

Does there seem to be a problem waiting for you no matter where you turn?

Do you sometimes wonder if your dreams are ever going to come to pass?

Maybe you've asked why God would allow you to struggle in your job, your relationships, your health, or some other area of life. God allows you to go through challenges because He knows it's the struggle of life that builds strength in you.

If God simply delivered you from every struggle every time, then you may not continue to grow and learn to trust Him. When you persevere through difficult times, you'll begin to realize a greater level of joy, peace, victory, and abundance than you ever dreamed possible.

Remember, God loves you too much to leave you where you are.

He's preparing you for something better!

God, thank You for giving me what You know I need.
Help me to learn and grow through my struggles as I trust You to bring me out stronger than ever. In Jesus' Name… Amen!

*Author Unknown: The text above was emailed to me by one of my co-workers*

My Testimony

*The video above was shared by jkstar09 at

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuihT9wRc34*

Encouragement for Today

*The following story is excerpted from the July 2007 eNewsletter by Steve Arterburn*

There was a little boy and his sister visiting his grandparents on their farm. Johnny was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods; but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner. As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head and killed it. He was shocked and grieved!

In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile; only to see his sister watching! Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing. After lunch the next day Grandma said, "Sally, let's wash the dishes" But Sally said, "Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen." Then she whispered to him, "Remember the duck?" So Johnny did the dishes.

Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, "I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper." Sally just smiled and said, "Well that's all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help" She whispered again, "Remember the duck?" So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help.

After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's; he finally couldn't stand it any longer. He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug and said, "Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you."

And so it is with us. Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done...And the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt, fear, bad habits, hatred, anger, bitterness, etc.) ...whatever it is...You need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing. He has seen your whole life. He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you. And, always remember:

God is at the window!

My Testimony

*This video was shared by Jeff432007 at http://youtube.com/watch?v=vvNQHq19_sk *