Ebenezer Chronicle Spring 2019
Do You Believe?
Not your typical Christmas play, ‘Just Believe’ featured a Christmas theme with a deeper message. As you may recall, in the play, a popular choir prepares to perform at a large and important venue; however, circumstances prevent them from performing. Instead, they receive the opportunity to perform as a retirement home. Although, not initially excited, the young choir find a kindred spirit in the ‘old folks’ they perform for and with. Through their experience, they are reminded that Christmas is about Jesus and bringing his message of salvation to a fallen world. It was a short, but uplifting musical that inspired and entertained with a collection of songs both new and traditional with something for everyone – swing, jazz, country, and hip-hop. As the Christmas season and 2018 have wrapped up, let us still remember that when God closes a door, he always opens a window. No matter what 2019 brings, as the musical stated, we are to know, trust, and believe that Jesus is always there with us.
Kendra James
Renewed
The frost of life had left me cold.
Things were dark and dreary in the hole.
Despair and doubt had boggled my mind.
Thinking no hope of renewal for the next time.
Who could revive my tired soul from that cross
disappointment and fear?
Who would want to come near knowing all the hidden secrets within
so much sin.
I ran but could not hide
His presence was everywhere: in the trees, rain and sky.
Oh so high. He watched me from a zygote to an adult. My up and down, above and beneath waiting long with outstretched arm.
Oh, my child, come, trust and see the love that is true
Blood so strong and powerful, it cleanses, heals, making you new and free.
No money needed, paid in full.
It cost my Savior, His all.
He knew from the beginning the Father’s plan
He came to save the sinner man.
From self-destruction, indignation and self-reliance.
Seek Him first and every need He will supply.
A promise for all who abide. Spring has sprung, hope is bright.
Renewed in body soul and mind.
For I have found, the true source of life:
Christ the Savior, sustainer and friend.
The One who will keep me to the end.
My frost and gloomed
Is now heat and broomed.
I am Renewed.
Grace Padmore
Be Encouraged by the Practical Biblical
Truth of Exodus 4:7-8
- God sees (Exod.4:7)- your present affliction, burdens, struggles, distress, and predicament.
- God knows (Exod.4:7) – about everything you are presently facing, including your trials, troubles, suffering, pain, distress, disappointments, and yes, your tears. (Psalm 139: 1-12)
- God hears (Exod.4:7)- So, call out to Him about what you are facing presently. (Psalm 34:5)
- God promises deliverance (Exod.4:7)- There is an expiration date on your present “rock in a hard place situation”.
- God will bring you OUT of your insufferably burdensome place, and bring you into your PROMISE LAND, in this life- a better place of Divine favor, purpose and destiny. (Deut. 23, Psalm 27:13, 1 Cor. 12:13).
- God is able (Eph. 3:20). Believe God, beloved (Roman 4:20-21).
- God will work things out (Rom. 8:28) and make a way out for your (Isaiah 43: 19)
Therefore, wait on Him (Psalm 27:14, Isaiah 40:31).
Pastor Randolph Jones
A Broken Heart
(1979 album: All That Matters)
So you got your heart broke in two,
And you hurt so bad
You don’t know what to do;
And you think that you’re the only one
who’s ever felt this way
But there was sure another one another day.
CHORUS:
And He died of a broken heart,
It broke for you and me.
He loved us more than words can say,
And more than we could see
His death was not from pain He felt
While hanging on that tree
No, He died of a broken heart For you and me.
And it seems you’ve come to the end
and you’re standing all alone without a friend
And you’re just so sure that no one’s ever hurt this bad before,
But there was One who hurt this bad and even more!
CHORUS:
And He died of a broken heart,
It broke for you and me.
He loved us more than words can say,
And more than we could see
His death was not from pain He felt
While hanging on that tree
No, He died of a broken heart For you and me.
Dallas Holm
Prayers of Faith
Lord, I pray that You bless me wherever I go. I’m getting older now, that’s what my parents have been saying, that’s what I’ve been told. I’ll be exposed to new things now, some new revelations while encountering some old. I thought I didn’t know how to deal with my problems. I need a guide, what do You suppose. I’ve been in this worldly world all my life I suppose. My religion is like a stamp I wear on my head. You can see it, so bold. Before I do anything, You hold me back and make me listen to the truths I’ve been told. Stop going after things you don’t need right now, your youthful not old. So as I step into this new time I pray that you hold me so close. Show me all the signs and show me where to go. Bless me with like minded people and give me the future You want. I don’t want to go astray although the devil may taunt. I need to stay strong, I know that’s what You want and I want. So bless me and give me everything that You want for me and keep me sound in my thoughts.
Jada Williams
Lord, heavenly Father! Thank you for blessing me with a sound mind and continued faith. You are wonderful and awesome in all things. Lord, I asked for a new job and you gave me what I wanted. Lord, I am asking you now to give me a job that will fulfill my needs. I ask for a position where I can provide for my family, exceed beyond the position’s and supervisor’s expectations, grow intellectually, have co- workers who are patient and supportive in my work product, a mentoring atmosphere, an innovative environment, a healthy environment, productive days that go by fast but are well appreciated. A supervisor who is a Christian without prejudices and is a fair manager. An employer who truthfully understands work life balance. A position where I can work remotely as needed and not be penalized. A 9-5 position where it isn’t needed to break even. No co-workers who are manipulative, insecure with people, mean spirited, gossipers or lazy. A position that has a fair balance of work amongst the team. An employer who treats employees like humans and not slaves. Managers and co-workers who know how to effectively communicate, offer constructive criticism with a kind heart and mentor for the next level up. Managers who want to see team members succeed. A firm who is generous in all things. Lord, I ask you for all these things because you are my Lord and almighty God of promises. I ask of these things in the holy name of Jesus amen!
Charmaine Williams