Pure, Unadulterated Joy

Today's message and prayer during Church of the Highlands 21 Days of Prayer is on fire!

Romans 12:1-2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

WOW WOW WOW!

Today's message and prayer at the Church of the Highlands was on fire! Here's the link if you want to hear and watch and see how thousands of people around the country are lifting up prayer requests for things that matter to you and society right now:

https://21days.churchofthehighlands.com/media/ce65242a-7a76-496a-a4c7-83a20f0f15ec

Today's 21 days of prayer is all about spiritual attacks on the family and encouraging us to put on the full armor of God. We need to step into our place of authority and fight the devil.

Ephesians 6:10 - 13  

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 

Be encouraged! Do not shrink back and be destroyed, stand in your purpose and your calling. Do not flee, Nehemiah 4:14  “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”

 

Focus on the home and believe God can do great things. This is what the pastor was preaching and praying for today and encouraged all of us to pray too. That we would have: 

 

1. Homes built on the Word of God

2. Homes will have a spirit of unity, established in prayer

3. Homes filled with children in love with God. 

 

I have been so blessed and encouraged as I follow along daily I just had to share and encourage others to join me.

It's been really amazing to see what I'm praying for manifest in real life too. I've been praying for our government officials, our country, my alma mater, my friends and their families, my family, my favorite celebrities, Hollywood, and whoever and whatever God brings to mind as I'm lifting up these prayers to Him.

 

I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in God's goodness. I believe in the power of God's truth. love and ability to change lives and circumstances.

 

I see it in my own life and in certain things happening in the country today which is why I have to write and share this with you to encourage you to join me in the final days of this amazing experience.

There's so much evil and darkness in the world right now. Wouldn't it be nice to have some light and encouragement in the midst of it? That's why I'm doing this. It changes my whole perspective and gives me encouragement that God is in control and He wins over the evil going on right now.

I think of this shocking story which you can read in full detail by clicking the link... Madonna Accused of Pornography and Child Trafficking in Southern Africa – Ethiopian World Federation Urges President of Malawi to Conduct Investigation  By Jim Hoft Published January 18, 2023 

 

Or this one: Gay Couple Allegedly Pimped Out, Made Child Porn With Adopted Children

 

I can't help but wonder if people praying for those caught in sex trafficking, human trafficking, and other abuses against children haven't caused these to come out now. I know I pray for that to end.

 

There's been too many women and children sex and human trafficked across our borders which is heartbreaking to me. The U.S. Department of State estimates between 14,500 and 17,500 victims are trafficked within the United States each year.⁴ An estimated 72% of these victims are immigrants.

 

When I think about it, all I can do is pray for our borders, for the people caught in the crosshairs and that God will intervene, give our government officials wisdom in handling it, and that we will have law and order once again. It's out of my hands...

And on the flip side, I see positive news happening that makes me feel good: 

 

1. Cancer Plummets, Guinea Worm Eradicated, Bye-Bye Ebola—3 Huge Wins for a Healthier Humanity

 

2. Alec Baldwin to be charged in fatal 'Rust' shooting 

I know some may not think Alec being charged is positive, but I've been praying there will be justice in the world and I think it IS manslaughter when someone deliberately points a gun at someone and shoots it, fake or not.

 

I'm also tired of celebrities literally getting away with murder as Bruce Jenner did in that fatal car crash. I also feel sometimes we have to go through hard times to trust in God, not ourselves. Perhaps Alec will turn to God now?

3. Biden’s Covid ‘emergency’ has become a well-worn, flimsy crutch

 

But enough of me and my opinions of what's happening in the world, let's get back to God and his will for our lives.:)

 

This is one of my favorite verses in the Bible and I hope it encourages you too: Jeremiah 29:11 ¹¹ For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for prosperity and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

 

And here's a musical version with sign language!

So! I hope this encourages and challenges you to join me as we continue our journey through the 21 Days of Prayer with the Church of the Highlands!

 

They have a great app for pray called Pray First which you can find in both iPhone and Android stores. And I like having the church app too because it makes it easier to find the message. You can also just watch on your computer. Whatever works! Just pray! 

 

God bless your day as my friend Ashley always says. If you'd like some worship music to play in the background as you go about your day, here's some I just found. 

Have a great week! I plan to!

 

 

 

 

Thank God for Black Preachers and other thoughts this 9th day of the riots, protests and looting. #BLM #LOVECONQUERSALL #Justice #peace

By Joy A. Kennelly

Have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised to see the peace marches happening in Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach yesterday. But while it's easy to march, it will be interesting to see if the white people marching decide to hire black people for more than delivering their groceries, their take-out orders, or retail jobs. I hate to say it, but talk is cheap and action means more when taken in a new positive direction. 

So, all you investors and celebrities living in the South Bay in your mansions, will you hire minorities on  your sets? Fund their startups? Rebuild their businesses? Fund their dreams? Or merely march once, figure you've done your civic duty and go back to your normal lives feeling better about yourselves? Will you donate to help change inner city kids lives? Will you recognize the constant threat of violence so many children grow up under with no hope for a way out of the vicious cycle because their parents aren't able to get out of years of systematic poverty? 

And yes, minorities do hold some of the responsibility for their situations, just like I do mine. I'm just saying, let's take the high road and create a bridge to another life rather than wave at them from the other side and wish them well. 

And that's all I'll say on that for now. 

I listened to a black preacher my friend Maria and my little Mom used to love named Creflo Dollar who really spoke to me this morning. I want to share the scripture he shared and how he shared it because maybe you need a little encouragement today too. I always love black preachers because they've been through some things and they get how much we need God in times like these. Sometimes I think white preachers are so far removed from the trenches minorities live with on a daily basis they just can't give the comfort necessary to those of us living with the nightmare on a daily basis.

Last night I had numerous thugs walking around near my place setting off fireworks - not just fireworks, cherry bombs that sounded like bombs. Firecrackers that sounded like gunshots. Finally I had enough and yelled at them to cut it out. Then I saw more going off and I called the police. The idiot dispatcher was like where is it? I gave them a general vicinity and because she still refused to understand I told her I'd go do her job for her and raced over to the street the largest display was coming from only to find a group of young kids. 

Interestingly though, earlier, down the street I heard what sounded like a domestic violence disturbance from the messed up house down the street and kept waiting for someone to yell for help. It eventually subsided so I didn't report it. However, when I raced out of my house to track down the explosions I saw a black guy wearing a hoodie scurrying away and two cars ran the stop sign to get away too.

This is my life right now. And what minorities live with on a regular basis in these low income neighborhoods.

I was so mad I called Maxine Waters and demanded she do something to make it stop. I also tweeted at her, and all the black bishops leading these congregations in the hood, and all the black politicians doing nothing to quell the unrest. Whether or not it does any good will have to be seen. But I felt better. LOL

Sometimes you just need to yell and scream which is why I understand why people are "peacefully" protesting. However, allowing Antifa to run wild and not report it as news is where the media is failing society. They're so intent on libeling our President they refuse to report anything else than that which is a total disservice to the black officer who lost his life due to looters, the black businesses that have been devastated, the black homeless living in DTLA and under the bridge near Otis, or anywhere you drive in California lately.

WE HAVE TO DO BETTER! WE HAVE TO REPORT WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON AND STOP BLAMING TRUMP FOR EVERYTHING. WE HAVE TO REALIZE GAVIN NEWSOM HAS DIVERTED FUNDS CONSTANTLY FROM THE STATE BUDGET DESIGNED TO TAKE CARE OF OUR VETERANS, OUR HOMELESS, OUR UNEMPLOYMENT, OUR SENIORS AND USED IT FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT CITIZENS.

At a certain point we either defend our state and our rights as citizens to live in a city that is devoid of corruption, or accept the results of it. Gavin Newsom acts like Robin Hood, only the poor people he thinks he's saving aren't who most normal people want him to save. We want him to save our Veterans, our Homeless, our Seniors and when he spends $150 million to save illegals I have a problem with that. BIG PROBLEM.

Who is going to bail out the businesses that were just ransacked, looted and damaged? Why are celebrities saying defund the police when they have expensive security protecting them? When will they be as defenseless as the rest of us to hear how insane what they're saying is, or who they're funding is? I just can't understand the depths of ignorance and self-righteous posturing I see. But then again, you may consider what I'm doing the same. LOL And therein lies the conundrum. 

I know I said I wasn't going to say anything else, but this really, really, really bugs me. And 140 characters in a tweet aren't enough to express my sheer frustration and anger at the lack of protection, leadership, and sanctity of human life I see in all areas of California administration. 

I'm glad Jamie Foxx, Stephen Jackson and others are in Minneapolis calling for justice. I stand with them. There needs to be change and justice, but you have to also realize this isn't a one-sided conversation. Watch this:

I was happy to hear Andrew Cuomo back off his statement criticizing the NYPD after what they're having to face with organized rioting. If you don't believe me, then believe this soviet since so many of you love Russia.:)

Or how about Investigative journalist.Winner of Alfred I duPont–Columbia Uni Silver Baton, multiple Emmys, Edward R. Murrow Awards etc Lara Logan Has No Agenda on Fox Nation Just read her twitter feed because it's all there: https://twitter.com/laralogan?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Saw this just now and feel it fits my thoughts today. 

And with that, I will close out this missive with the words of the Pastor I promised to share earlier, but then got fired up sharing something else.:)

Psalm 91: 1 - 16

 I DECLARE Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.^[a]

I DECLARE I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
    my God, in whom I trust.”

I DECLARE Surely he will save you
    from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.

I DECLARE He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

I DECLARE You will not fear the terror of night,
    nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
    nor the plague that destroys at midday.

I DECLARE A thousand may fall at your side,
    ten thousand at your right hand,
    but it will not come near you.

I DECLARE You will only observe with your eyes
    and see the punishment of the wicked.

^{I DECLARE} If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”
    and you make the Most High your dwelling,
    no harm will overtake you,
    no disaster will come near your tent.

 

I DECLARE For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways;

 

I DECLARE they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

 

I DECLARE You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
    you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

 

I DECLARE “Because he^[b] loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
    I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

 

^{I DECLARE} He will call on me, and I will answer him;
    I will be with him in trouble,
    I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him
    and show him my salvation.”

Amen and Amen. May God bless the reading of His word and God bless you. 

What I saw in Santa Monica and Venice yesterday after the looting. Recommendations based on people I believe in and support. #silentmajority #blackouttuesday #tech #entertainment #America

By Joy A. Kennelly

I want to start off by saying these are my thoughts and if you're reading, then you must find them of interest. Just know, I'm not perfect. I don't have all the answers. I'm sharing from my heart and my worldview which may differ from yours. In fact, in all likelihood I know it does because I haven't heard this expressed in a public forum which is why I feel compelled to do so.

That's why I write.

To express a worldview I don't always read or hear when I look out into the world. May add value, may not. But these are my thoughts. It may also reflect certain parts of me that need maturing so give me grace as I will try to give you some too. And as I get these thoughts out of my brain on to "paper" so to speak, then I can look at them objectively and realize there are still areas of growth I need. (So I want to clarify that not all black men cheat, only the ones I happen to have "dated.")

I also look and see how far I've come from where I was. And perhaps, how much I still have to go. Journaling has a way of doing that which is why I love it so much.

Yesterday I drove down to Santa Monica after hearing the press conference put on by their city officials out of a desire to help with the clean up from the looters taking advantage of the peaceful protests. I woke up late, which is typical during this lockdown experience lately despite hours of sleep, and by the time I arrived, the majority of the graffiti, debris, etc was taken care of by Public Works and an army of concerned citizens. 

I drove around the entire city looking for an area I could help and to be honest, many people were doing the same by foot because it was really cleaned up. The business area curfew of 1:00pm had put a sense of urgency around the boarding up of the windows and street clean-up which I also feel was part of it. I posted a bunch of pictures and videos on my insta account here: www.instagram.com/joyakennelly

I was shocked and saddened at the same time. But also encouraged and the one thought that kept repeating in my mind was Look for the helpers as Mr. Rogers always used to say. And there were so many. It really warmed my heart and helped me to understand we are good people. We want to be kind. We want to hear. We want to be part of the change that is so necessary right now.

Look at Jimmy Fallon. What a lot of guts to be that vulnerable last night with his apology and guest choices.

I was further encouraged waiting in line at the grocery store to see a white couple invite a young black man to step in front of them to buy his small purchase when their cart was full. It's small gestures that show people they're seen. They're heard. They're part of us.

I listened to the heart of Miles McPherson, the pastor The Rock San Diego, and was sad to hear what he's experienced in his life as a black man, but also encouraged by what he had to say. I'm showing it here in full because you might have missed it and it's so powerful. He's a former NFL player, had a cocaine addiction, became a Christian, got his theology degree and now leads a 18,000 person church throughout San Diego.

And if you really want to do a deep dive, read his book, The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation, which you can find on Amazon, his church bookstore, and Barnes & Noble.

"Pastor Miles McPherson’s new book, The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation, offers guidance on this issue, by identifying the cultural influences that shape our attitudes on race, and explaining why we must honor the priceless value of God’s image in all people." 

I was also really encouraged by the images I saw from the Palos Verdes peaceful protest which you can view on my friend's instagram account too: https://www.instagram.com/p/CA8GEjFFGa6gAFWAEE-pMU7ZmxM7emaLZ2P8js0/ and here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CA8GvRLFDfhrckh7N_CmHH-zaily-_apteJp9A0/

If I had my phone with me when I went to the beach the other day I would have taken a picture of the lone female activist standing outside the Manhattan Beach library holding a sign that said, Black Lives DO Matter, Check your privilege. I asked her first if she was from there and she said yes. Then I asked if there was a lot of resistance, knowing the people who live there like I do having grown up with many of them and worked around them too. And again, she said yes.

I sometimes think people just don't want to examine themselves because if they did, then they'd have to change.

I see this in the tech industry which prefers to fund young, white males and excludes minorities (women, blacks, Hispanics.) When I left in 2014 only 4% of female founders were receiving funding. Last year I attended an investment seminar put on by a friend of mine to see if anything had changed. When I asked the most vocal female panelist what the stats were now, she said the marker hadn't changed one iota. It's the main reason I left.

I loved being around smart people who are so innovative, but also being around such a myopic viewpoint that only white men can produce anything of value was too oppressive and small-minded for me to continue to support or participate.

I find it ironic that one of the lead investors is saying he wants to review his view of minorities in light of all the riots and I had to comment, then consider funding minorities because I'm sure if he began reviewing his investments he would have to agree, it's woefully few and far between. Even his conference is probably all white. Not sure, but how many black tech companies have you heard about in this realm lately? Because you know only CEO's generally get a platform at such conferences and if they're not getting funded, then they're not having a platform either. 

Don't believe me? Then read this Crunchbase article:

Untapped Opportunity: Minority Founders Still Being Overlooked 

However, it's not all bad news. Check out this February 2020 article too:

25 Black Entrepreneurs Making Waves

Maybe if more investors see this article they will realize they're missing an entire investment category that has high returns. Perhaps hiring more minorities who are capable of analyzing the ROI potential from a real perspective might help. I say the same for hiring more female investors on their team too. The irony of leaving an industry is that it's like a guy you ignore, when you don't need or want them any more, all of a sudden you're that much more desirable.

Ironic, isn't it? Not to say anything will happen about the conversation I will have next week, but to even have it again after years of radio silence is interesting to say the least.

The entertainment industry is also very myopic, but I think having the changes that have happened recently in the Academy have begun to make a difference. Plus, the fact the film, Black Panther was so successful probably didn't hurt. "'Storylines with a strong black character or identity are crossing cultural boundaries to grab diverse audiences and start conversations. That insight is important for culture and content creators, as well as manufacturers and retailers looking to create engaging, high-impact advertising campaigns,'” said Andrew McCaskill, senior vice president, Communications and Multicultural Marketing, at Nielsen." excerpt from a 2 year old Forbes article which can read if you click the link.

However, it's still an issue which is why I admire Tyler Perry so much. And The Rock. And Kevin Hart. They didn't let race limit their lives and have accomplished so much and overcome so much. Doesn't mean I agree with everything they promote or stand for, or share, but the majority of it I do so...

The image that keeps coming to mind after reviewing everything happening recently is our country is like a child that is deeply hurting and throwing a tantrum where they're kicking and screaming and crying on the ground until they can't cry any more and lay there breathing heavily until they are quiet. I feel like we're still in the raising hell stage and it may take awhile before it ends because the pain, the loss, the heartache, the deaths, the injustice and the economic struggle has been so long, so deep, so below the surface of most white's perception it is taking something this drastic, (whether the protests are invaded by Antifa as I believe, or not), to create radical change. 

I was duly impressed by this one woman's interpretation as expressed in her book and which you can read an article on if you click the following link: Why I’m no longer talking to white people about race

by Reni Eddo-Lodge

 

For years, racism has been defined by the violence of far-right extremists, but a more insidious kind of prejudice can be found where many least expect it – at the heart of respectable society Listen to the audio version of this long read

I have lots of black friends, have dated numerous black men, have a mixed race son, and yet, even so, I still learn something about the black experience. I think as a country we need to continue to be open, to hear, to care and to share, but I also feel there needs to be radical changes to how dirty cops continue to escape justice, how tech investment is parsed out, and how entertainment is presented.

We need to change the messages, the system, the money structure to allow there to be true common ground. We can't speak it. We have to live it by our actions. When I ran my short film festival I always tried to represent diverse voices. I'll never forget a black filmmaker friend of mine saying how surprised he was to be the only black guy at the Kodak reception for filmmakers. I told him it was because his film wasn't the traditional black film and it was something white judges felt comfortable recognizing. I think it's changed since the 90's, but I've never forgotten his surprise. 

My son shared a petition he is sharing and I'm not sure how it will evoke change, or if it's feasible, but I offer it here simply because I support my son and his opinion. I'm in disagreement where he calls for the legalization of cannabis, because seeing how it's affected Denver, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, I don't believe it's part of this solution. I think it's a distraction. And I've told him so. But I will let you make up your own mind once you read it. I also am not saying that I believe all cops are bad. I'm just presenting this as part of the dialog needed and because my mixed race son is expressing his viewpoint.

Prevent police brutality with tangible solutions

And now, if you'll excuse me I need to get back to my life again. Been listening to a few webinars at the same time and now need to implement what I've been learning. 

 

 

 

 

Journey of Faith stepped up today to help the #Homeless crisis in the #SouthBay - here's how you can too.

By Joy A. Kennelly

Today I witnessed the most beautiful sight at my Torrance Journey of Faith campus I had to write about it.

Months ago, you may remember I wrote a blog about the lack of homeless resources offered through Journey of Faith church and the City of Manhattan Beach. I wrote the deacons at the church and the city council member I knew to challenge them to do more. 

Not sure if the City of Manhattan Beach has done anything with the homeless resource information I gave because I don't see it on their city website, but perhaps I'm not looking in the right spot?:) I hope they take what Journey of Faith is doing and consider doing more because when I visit the library there, I see homeless people around the city more and more.

Here's what an article in the LA Times entitled Los Angeles’ homelessness crisis is a national disgrace  had to say about the homeless demographic:

"Contrary to popular belief, the homeless in Los Angeles are not mostly mentally ill or drug addicted, raving or matted-haired or frightening — although a sizable minority meet some of those descriptions. They are not mostly people who drifted in from other states in search of a comfy climate in which to sponge off of others; the overwhelming majority have lived in the region for years. Today, a greater and greater proportion of people living on the streets are there because of bad luck or a series of mistakes, or because the economy forgot them — they lost a job or were evicted or fled an abusive marriage just as the housing market was growing increasingly unforgiving.

It will surprise no one to learn that it is the most vulnerable among us who usually end up without a place to live. According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, more than 5,000 of the county’s 58,000 homeless people are children and more than 4,000 are elderly. About one-third are mentally ill. Some 40% are African American. Also heavily represented: Veterans. The disabled. Young people from the county’s overwhelmed juvenile justice system and its foster care programs. Men and women just released from jail, without the tools or skills needed for reentering society. Patients released from public hospitals — often with untreated cancers, infections, heart disease or diabetes. Victims of domestic violence." 

That's why, when I saw that Journey of Faith had prepared an amazing gift for the homeless we packed after service today, it brought me to tears to see Love in Action. Sometimes you don't think what you have to say matters to anyone and maybe I had nothing to do with this new direction, but I like to think I made a small difference.

A finished bag included a bottle of water, sanitary wipes, foot powder, bandaids, snacks, deodorant, toothbrush kit, socks, a McDonalds gift card, a list of the food bank resources in the area, and a pamphlet on the book of John

 

Loved seeing this little boy learning about giving back at such a young age.

Everyone was given a plastic bag to fill up after church this morning

 

Your community can do something similar very easily. Make a difference today!

If you don't have time to donate, but want to give, here's some resources who need your support. Doors of Hope in Wilmington is a shelter for women that isn't listed, but can use financial support too.

Your donation of money, time or resources will go a long way to helping people get back on their feet. Some of the organizations listed above include: 

Harbor Interfaith

"The programs we offer clients are funded by a mix of government and community support.  Without your help, we couldn’t offer programs such as The Children’s Center, the Associated Learning & Living transitional housing program, and others.  Please consider a gift today to help eliminate homelessness and poverty in the South Bay."

Click Here to donate cash.

• $60,000 pays for one year of case management to house 25 families
• $6,000 pays for childcare for one child for a year
• $1,000 pays for one week’s food supply at the Pantry
• $500 pays for a month of educational materials for the Children’s Center
• $100 covers the cost of Internet connection for the job-search computer lab
• $50 pays for lunch for the school-age children for one day of summer day camp
• $25 pays for one evening of “Movie Night” for our senior clients

Tax ID:  Harbor Interfaith Services, Inc., is a 501.c.3, tax exempt, corporation.  Your gifts are tax deductible.  Our Federal Tax ID number is 33-0031099.

1736 Family Crisis Center

1736 Family Crisis Center relies exclusively on donations and grants to financially support our programs. The Center is a private nonprofit corporation with IRS 501(c)(3) and California tax exempt status. Donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

DONATE ONLINE NOW

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Project Halo

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Family Promise 

Family Promise is a community-based approach, engaging both
the local community, as well as houses of faith in the effort to combat family homelessness.  Guests in our program receive a full complement of resources, support, and services as they work toward their own stability and self-reliance.

Doors of Hope/Beacon Light Shelter
We seek to identify the extreme challenges of homeless women and provide support to help them transition from despair to spiritual wholeness. 

There are very few female-focused shelters in Los Angeles, and this one is located in Wilmington. They always need clothes, food, and financial support. They are under the umbrella of Beacon Light Shelter and offer a warm dinner nightly to those in need and housing for up to a week. 

And that's your Sunday message for today. God is love. He loves those who are struggling. There is hope. There is a huge need. Please participate in any way you can.

God bless. 

Remembering Steve Jobs through the eyes of Walt Wilson, former Apple Managing Director, and me, a birthmom

By Joy A. Kennelly

This morning I attended the 20th Annual High Tech Prayer Breakfast which they claim as the largest networking event in Atlanta, GA with 1600 people in attendance and also, the earliest, beginning at 6am till 9am (I've been up since 4:30am to get there on time.:)

I had no idea what to expect, but since my friend, Curt Cain of iHealth Technologies, Inc., had invited me, I wanted to attend. We grew up in the same church in Manhattan Beach, CA and recently re-acquainted when he and his wife invited other CA "ex-pats" to a dinner this past week.

I have always felt a sense of family with other Christians because no matter how much time passes, there's a spiritual bond which ties us together no matter where we are, or what has happened. I really don't know how some people get through life without a spiritual component to their lives when I find such encouragement, support, and Godly love in my Christian life experiences. I know I couldn't make it living out here in Georgia without my faith in God and Christian friends. 

This morning's prayer breakfast was very inspiring to me on many levels as a result.

Back home in Los Angeles I have attended numerous tech conferences, networking mixers, seminars, and parties, and not once have I ever seen a spiritual aspect included. What a refreshing difference to meet CEO's, CFO's, Venture Capitalists, CTO's and more who are also following God and willing to be visible in this public realm by inviting men and women who have never heard the gospel to attend.

In light of Steve Jobs' passing, who I consider one of America's most brilliant innovators, it was very moving to hear Keynote Speaker, Walt Wilson, speak. He had been an early employee of Apple serving as the Managing Director of U.S. operations "as the company grew from just a start-up to a globally-recognized corporation with $5 billion in revenues."

Talk about a powerful way to start the day!

The host committee had gathered together to pray for Steve, his family and the prayer breakfast the night before when they heard the news of Steve Jobs' death. Walt said he had prepared a speech a few months back, but threw it all out at 3am.  He had planned to share what it was like working in Silicon Valley, working at Apple and his career, but felt what he had originally prepared wasn't appropriate after last night. 

Walt called Steve "My Boss, my Mentor, and my Friend" who had a thirst for excellence and never measured his success by market share.
He said Steve always wanted to the be BMW of the tech world and then revealed BMW really only held a 3% market share which was surprising to hear. 

What set Apple apart is it was always about computing, not the computers. It was about advancing technology more than anything else. Walt said Steve didn't care what anyone on Wall Street thought, or anyone else for that matter, which drew a laugh from the crowd. Walt also shared Steve always protected his family from his own celebrity which I admire. 

Walt shared only one personal anecdote of his experience working with Steve because it was difficult to speak so recently of someone he obviously cared deeply about. I would quote it, but want to preserve some of privacy of the breakfast.

However, I will share with you briefly Walt's story because it was fascinating to learn he had only graduated high school and served in the United States Marine Corps for three years which must have been great preparation for working alongside Steve Jobs.:)

He is currently "the founder and chairman of  Internet ministry Global Media Outreach (GMO). He was previously co-founder, chairman and CEO of Exclaim Technologies, Inc., an applications service provider in the business-to-business Internet market. Before that, he served as senior vice president and corporate officer of the consulting group Computer Sciences Corp. (CSC), a $16 billion, U.S. global corporation with 600 offices worldwide, employing over 100,000 people."

Pretty impressive, eh?

I've been attending numerous events this week; the Georgia Production Partnership monthly lunch meeting where I heard Comedy Writer, Dave Drabik of Fine Line Productions, speak; Inc and United Healthcare's holistic living panel seminar entitled Helping Businesses Grow Strong featuring Michael Tavani, co-founder of ScoutMob (mobile deals for the local curious), Sean Cook, CEO of Shop Visible, and CEO of Petrus Brands, Inc, Chris Morocco (Shane's Rib Shack and Planet Smoothie) which were great.

I've been meeting more CEO's and influential people here in Georgia faster than ever happened in CA. Hard to believe I've really only been here a little over two months after all.:) 

Have to admit though, although these other speakers were fantastic, informative and entertaining, this morning's breakfast spoke to me on a deeper level due to the spiritual component. When you consider Steve Jobs Stanford Commencement Address on living and know he died last night, it really puts life into perspective. 

"Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life," he said.

"Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart."

Here is his speech in its entirety because it's so powerful:

 

As Walt continued to speak, he challenged us to think about where we will spend eternity. If you died today do you know? He reminded us of the verses, Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." and John 3:17 "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

If you've wanted a fresh start, forgiveness of your sins, or simply to surrender your life to God because whatever you're doing isn't working, please consider asking Him into your life. He will answer you when you call upon Him. "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." I Peter 5:7 and “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13

I hope you do, but if you don't now, know God is there whenever you need him. I can tell you He has brought me through so much. I was personally touched to learn Steve Jobs was adopted since I'm a birthmother who has a 12 year old son I placed in adoption at birth. It was one of the hardest experiences to live through in my entire life.

When I see TV shows like Parenthood which recently mocked the sacredness of this experience in an episode called, "Hey, if you're not using that baby;" or see Glee's portrayal of a birthmother plotting to get her adopted baby back; or hear Grey's Anatomy recently wove an abortion subplot into their storyline, it grieves my spirit.

So much so, I wrote Ira Schreck of Schreck Rose Dapello Adams & Hurwitz, LLP who represents Jason Katims, to express my dismay. Here's a highlight to help you understand why this image of birthmothers and adoption in general needs to change:

"As a birthmother of a twelve year-old son I placed in adoption at birth, I was shocked and devastated to see one of the main characters asking a teen-age mother if she could, “Buy your baby.”

I admire how sensitively Jason Katims has handled Asperger and am writing to request he and his staff present adoption in the same sensitive manner. Children in adoption are not bought and sold. They are not cavalierly “given” away. They are thoughtfully, painfully, delicately “placed” with a family a birthmother considers will offer a better life for their child they feel they cannot offer at the time of their pregnancy.

 Please consider the ramifications of treating a human life so callously. Parenthood has the opportunity to present a side of adoption rarely seen on TV if done correctly. I would strongly urge Jason and all those involved with the success of this show to consider researching adoption through such resources as: www.birthmothers.org and www.adoption.com before writing any further episodes."

I have yet to hear a response and have avoided other episodes because that one was too painful. But to those in entertainment who write stories about adoption and/or abortion, consider this thought if you will...

What would the world be like if Steve Jobs' birthmother chose to abort him rather than choose adoption? He has impacted all our lives and he's just one of many talented, creative people who was adopted.

Here's a list of more famous adoptees and birthparents I bet you didn't know about:

Adopted Persons

Andy Berlin - entrepreneur: chairman of Berlin Cameron & Partners
Anthony Williams - politician
Aristotle - philosopher
Art Linkletter - comedian
Bo Diddley - musician, performer
Buffy Sainte-Marie - musician, actress
Carl-Theodor Dreyer - Danish film director
Charlotte Anne Lopez - Miss Teen USA
Christina Crawford - author
Clarissa Pinkola Estes - author
Crazy Horse - Lakota war chief
Dan O'Brien - decathlete
Daunte Culpepper - football player
Dave Thomas - entrepreneur: founder of Wendy's
Debbie Harry - singer 
D.M.C. - hip hop artist
Edgar Allan Poe - poet, writer
Edward Albee - playwright
Eleanor Roosevelt - First Lady
Eric Dickerson - athlete
Faith Daniels - news anchor
Faith Hill - country singer
Freddie Bartholomew - actor
George Washington Carver - inventor
Greg Louganis - athlete
James MacArthur - actor
James Michener - author
Jean Jacques Rousseau - philosopher
Jesse Jackson - minister
Jesus - adopted by Joseph the carpenter (Bible)
Jett Williams - country singer and author
Jim Palmer - athlete
John J. Audubon - naturalist
John Hancock - politician
John Lennon - musician
Langston Hughes - poet and writer
Larry Ellison - entrepreneur: chief executive of Oracle
Lee Majors - actor
Leo Tolstoy - writer
Les Brown - motivational speaker
Lynnette Cole - Miss USA 2000
Malcolm X - civil rights leader
Mark Acre - athlete
Matthew Laborteaux - actor
Melissa Gilbert - actress
Michael Reagan - author, talk show host
Moses - Biblical leader
Nancy Reagan - First Lady
Nat King Cole - singer
Nelson Mandela - politician
Patrick Labyorteaux - actor
Peter and Kitty Carruthers - figure skaters
President Gerald Ford - politician
President William Clinton - politician
Priscilla Presley - actress
Ray Liotta - actor
Reno - performance artist, comedian
Sarah McLachlan - singer
Scott Hamilton - figure skater
Sen. Paull H. Shin - politician
Sen. Robert Byrd - politician
Steve Jobs - entrepreneur: co-founder of Apple computer
Surya Bonaly - figure skater
Tim Green - football player/commentator
Tim McGraw - country singer
Tom Monaghan - entrepreneur
Tommy Davidson - comedian
Victoria Rowell - actress
Wilson Riles - educator

Birth Parents

Andy Kaufman - actor

Clark Gable - actor

David Crosby - singer

Faith Ireland - judge

Hank Williams, Sr. - country music legend

Kate Mulgrew - actress

Joni Mitchell - singer

Roseanne Barr - actress

Mercedes Ruehl - actress

Strom Thurmond - politician

Notice the list of birthparents is much shorter? There is so much stigma surrounding adoption perpuated by past and recent Television shows, and the media, which I hope will change soon. Use the resources I mentioned in my letter, adoption.com and birthmothers.org to write truthfully about us please.

It's also time we acknowledge there are three choices when faced with unplanned pregnancy, not just two - abort or be a single parent. 

If Steve Jobs adoptive parents hadn't first adopted him and then supported, loved and encouraged his individuality just think how all our lives would be different today. Embrace the third choice and allow Steve Jobs passing to signify more than just his technological advancements, but also the power of love.

Because when it all boils down to it, every human needs to feel loved. Even those who are unwanted, unplanned, or inconvenient.

Give life, give love a chance.... Adoption is a choice too. It's extremely painful, but you get through it and your child then has the opportunity to be a world changer, perhaps another Steve Jobs. You never know, right? 

And that's all she wrote. Have a great day. I was planning to cover the Driven Music Conference, but felt compelled to share this with you first after my experience this morning.

Today's the day though!:) Stay tuned. 

What a great weekend - just what the doctor ordered

By Joy A. Kennelly

This has been one of the most spontaneous weekends I've had in forever. Saturday included attending my friend's child's preschool graduation dinner celebration which is always adorable because they love my attention.

The littlest got to pick the restaurant and when I was telling Kirsten some of the questions I had asked at my last event like what is your favorite South Bay restaurant, Kira piped up and said what is yours Auntie Joy? I knew I had to win points so I said why Mimi's of course (since that's where she had chosen to celebrate.)

She was so thrilled she said "That was a good answer." all proud and all like she's got it going on with choosing great places to eat. Too cute. I just love those kids. I love Kirsten too. She's family to me and like the sister I always wanted. Good, good, good people.

Then spent some time with the parents who always crack me up because they bicker over politics like nobody's business (I think my mom has a slight crush on Newt Gingrich to be honest!) before dashing off home to get ready for The Young Dubliners at St. Rocke - a place I like to call the South Bay's House of Blues.

Very modern, sophisticated, stunningly beautiful lounge and restaurant. Highly, highly recommend a visit. Great music too. It's new so if you haven't heard of it, it's the one which replaced the old Pitcher House. You must check it out sometime. Tell 'em Joy sent you. :)

Didn't have a chance to experience the food since it was 11pm when the band came on, but did enjoy the ambiance and electric vibe of everyone attending. Lots and lots of fun. It was so nice to drive 15 minutes and be some place like that. Normally I drive an hour each way when I go to Hollywood. OY! With gas the way it is now too...

Sunday of course hit Bay Cities Community Church like I always do and heard Jim's Father's Day sermon on Understanding Men. I think I'm beginning to understand them more. Now just need to find one to practice on! LOL

I get that men compartmentalize things. I understand men can't multi-task. I also understand men think about SEX all the time. Let's see what else? Oh, men do nothing that's how they get unstressed whereas women feel better when we talk through our stress. So true! It was a good reminder though. I love going to church because I always hear what I need to hear to live a better life in all areas of my life.

Dashed to Dad's to give him his Father's Day card and gift. Was going to cook him a special dinner, but mom had started already so just made brownies instead. I'm much more of a baker than a cook so it's all good. I need to find a man who likes to cook!:)

Afterwards, spur of the moment, was invited to join a few friends to watch the USA vs. Barbados soccer match at Home Depot in VIP seats. I grew up playing AYSO soccer and thought maybe we'd see David Beckham. We were a wee bit late and if he played, we missed him. Bummer. I am a blonde though so if I got my teams mixed up... Sorry, my bad.

I got some great pix though which I'll have to upload another time. It was great to see the huge American flag in the stadium and see how patriotic everyone was. Go America!

I am absolutely LOVING this camera! It takes the best pictures so easily and quickly. Now if I would only read the manual I bet my pictures would be even better! (I'm not just saying that. Numerous people have said I should enter some contests and you know what? I'm going to! Why not. It's a fun hobby and I'm having a lot of fun with it.)

After the game came back to the Beach House Hotel to connect with some of Joy's friends. Yes, there are now two of us living in the South Bay and we're now the bestest of friends. With a name like Joy, you can't be unhappy for long right? I've only met two other Joys in my lifetime and we've always become fast friends.

There were too many women at the suite party (all very nice, but not what we had in mind so...) left to find greener pastures. Hit a few spots and then dropped into The Shore to share it with my friends. Chef Dave was there and made everyone the best appetizers ever.

I didn't know this, but apparently The Shore won numerous food awards recently by all the local papers. They're sending me the specifics and then I'll post them here to let you know too. They have been working very hard for over the past six months to build the restaurant side of the business since the live entertainment side is great. Yes, they do serve food and not just alcohol. It's true!

Mike, one of the owners, told me that they were extremely close to their 50/50 (I believe he said it was 46.1/ whatever the difference to that is) and since they have such an amazing chef and cuisine, it's only a matter of time before they're completely in balance if not over. I wish them well in achieving that goal.

That's what I like about these guys. They really see what they need to do and they're busting their butt to do it. Not that others haven't, but apparently Dave is one of the higher paid chefs in the South Bay and rightly so. The food is that good. (Full disclosure, I'm publicizing them now, but I would say it regardless. I don't lie and you know me! I love to eat!)

I don't have all the pix of the food and such uploaded yet, but promise to put them up soon. You will want to make the trek to the beach to check it out I promise you that. Here's a few to pique your appetite.

I'll post the press release for this upcoming tasting party soon too. Just waiting on a couple more things to finalize first ok?

After a lazy, fun, delicious afternoon being pampered and catered to by Chef Dave (delicious, fresh food and smooth wine), we wandered back to Joy's house to catch the final minutes of the Laker's game.

Go Lakers! It seems like high drama and totally fixed from an outsider's perspective because why else would the games go the full 7? Some of the injuries people have told me look totally fake, but hey, this is only my third game watching ever so what do I know?

That's what was so funny about today. I'm totally not that into sports and today was just filled with them! First soccer, then basketball. Oh, and even a little golf. What's happening to me? I don't recognize myself! Guess that's what happens when you hang in the South Bay long enough. That's what everyone else is into. Okay, now I get it.

It was just simply the best day. I'll upload pix soon. Have a good one. Now to get ready for my very busy week.

Good night!

I've been so inspired by Lysa Terkeurst this morning...

By Joy A. Kennelly

I just found an old devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries that I almost deleted without reading, but I'm so glad I took the time to read this! Lysa TerKeurst is the most amazing woman! She's the President of Proverbs 31 ministry which I'm always quoting here because I just love their devotionals so much.

Here's their Mission Statement off the website and I quote:

"Proverbs 31 Ministries brings God’s peace, perspective, and purpose to today’s busy woman.
               
Proverbs 31 Ministries is a non-denominational, non-profit Christian ministry that seeks to lead women into a personal relationship with Christ. With Proverbs 31:10-31 as a guide, Proverbs 31 Ministries reaches women right in the middle of their busy day through free daily devotions, radio program, speaking events, conferences, monthly magazine, resources, online communities, and Gather and Grow groups. We are real women offering real-life solutions to women who are striving to maintain life’s balance, in spite of today’s hectic pace and cultural pull away from godly principals. Wherever a woman may be on her spiritual journey, Proverbs 31 Ministries exists to be a trusted friend who takes her by the hand and walks by her side, leading her one step closer to the heart of God."

She was also featured on Oprah last year for her adoption of two Liberian orphans which inspired the rest of her community of Christian friends to adopt over 31 other orphans too! Here's a link to that story here. What an amazing testimony to her life and the influence she has had on so many people.

It brought tears to my eyes watching it again. Please take a moment to watch it too because you will love it! I had seen this Oprah show back then, but had no idea Lysa was involved with this ministry group at all. God is so amazing in how He uses the simplest, humblest people in the world to accomplish great things.

What a testimony to God's love, compassion, direction and care for those who are hurting. I have volunteered among Hungarian orphan children right out of college and my heart goes out to any child who must grow up without parents. No matter what we think of the upbringing we might have experienced, at least we had parents who loved us in their own way.

I'm grateful for the Christian values my parents instilled in me that I try to live out each day. I don't always do a good job of being Christ-like, but I'm trying at least. That's what so great about being a Christian. We're all human and we fail, but God loves us and accepts us right where we are. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us and became the way for us to have a right relationship with God.

What I love about that too, is that it's a free gift from God that anyone can take advantage of. It's not limited to race, upbringing, status in life, or anything else that society normally tries to discriminate against. When I was little struggling with this concept, I didn't think God would love me because of my freckles!

However, God's love and acceptance is pure, all encompassing and there for the taking whenever you're ready to reach out and accept Him into your life.

What's so amazing about God too is that He will change your life from the inside out. No matter how horrible a life you might have lived until this point, God will cleanse you of your sins and make you pure again. When we sin, we just need to ask for forgiveness, repent, and try to use that experience as a chance to move forward and not repeat it again. If you've been reading for awhile, you know I mess up constantly, but I do try to make amends and move forward.

My heart's desire from anyone reading my blog is to realize that yes, I can totally "F" up and I've done it publicly often. However, I also accept my error and confess my sin to you and to God to become a better person. God is so much bigger than anything bad we've ever done.

If you are reading my blog and wonder how can you too have a faith in God that will radically change who you are right now, then please read the following. I've taken it from a cool website called The Road to Salvation and if you click on the link, you can receive a free Bible.

I'm not the best evangelist so read what this person says as the way to come to know God and I quote:

"If you have made the choice to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior you may say this prayer as a way to express your new found faith in Jesus. The prayer and the words themselves do not provide for salvation, but the belief in what those words mean - the free salvation of God - is what is important to God. Prayer is talking with God. God knows your heart and is not so concerned with your words as He is with the attitude of your heart.

The following is a suggested prayer:

Dear God,

I acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I believe that He was born of the Virgin Mary. I believe that He died on the cross, that His blood was shed for my sins and that He arose from the dead. I confess that I have disobeyed your commandments.

I ask you to forgive me for these sins. I now ask Jesus to come into my heart. Be my Savior. Be my Lord. Be my soon coming King. I will live my life to obey your teaching as recorded in the Bible. Thank you, in Jesus name. Amen

Does this prayer express the desire of your heart? If it does, pray this prayer right now as a way to express and confirm your choice to follow Jesus. Christ will come into your life, as He promised and give you eternal life through his sacrifice on the cross.

Questions New Believers have

What is Salvation?

Who is God?

What is the Bible?

Who is Jesus Christ?

What is sin?

Why does God allow sin?

Can any sin be forgiven?

What is Grace?

How does faith in God's grace bring salvation?

Here's the answers:

Who is God?

God is the creator of the heavens and the earth, He is our savior, He is our heavenly Father to those who become His children by faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. God is eternal, holy, infinite, just, omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient and God is Love!

Isaiah 40:28

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth, He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom.

John 4:7-9

Let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love. This is how God showed His love He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might love through Him.

What is the Bible?

The bible is God's message to us, it is His Word and it can be trusted to tell us the truth about Him. The bible gives us insight into the will of God and prepares us to do His work.

Timothy 3:16-17

All scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Who is Jesus Christ?

Christ is the Son of God who makes us sons and daughters of God through faith. Christ is the only way to salvation.

John 14:6

I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

What is sin?

We sin when we commit acts which are contrary to God's holy standard of righteousness. We sin when we fail to do what we know is the right thing to do. We sin when we have unrighteous attitudes.  We have ALL sinned and must look to Jesus Christ for Salvation.

Romans 3:23

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Why does God allow sin? God created man with the freedom to choose. He did not want robots that were forced to respond to His every direction. He took a risk in order to have a relationship with His created beings.

Can any sin be forgiven?

Forgiveness is not based on the magnitude of the sin, but the magnitude of the forgiver's love. No sin is too great for God's complete and unconditional love. Forgiveness means that God looks at us as though we never sinned.

Isaiah 1:18

Come now, let us argue this out, says the Lord. No matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can remove it. I can make you as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can remove it. I can make you as white as wool.

What is Grace?

When the bible says we are saved by grace, it means that God has freely chosen to pardon our sin through  Jesus Christ. We do not have to earn God's love or work our way to heaven. By grace we are forgiven for our sin and restored to full fellowship with God.

Romans 6:23

The wages of sin is death but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

How does faith in God's grace bring salvation?

Man's belief that Jesus Christ paid the penalty for our sin is all that is required on mans part for belief or faith that Jesus Christ is the means of our salvation is the prerequisite. We do not have salvation without it. We do not receive God's free gift of grace without it.

Acts 16:31

Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.

Okay, that's all the sermon I have for you today. Thanks for stopping by my blog. I know you weren't especially expecting something like this and to be honest, I wasn't expecting to write something like this, but I just felt lead to do so because God has impacted my life in such a strong way.

May He impact yours too. God loves you and so do I! If you're looking for a church to visit this morning, I'd like to invite you to attend Bay Cities Community Church over in Redondo Beach, CA. We have an 8am service, a 9:30am service at this location. Then, over at our Lomita campus we also have a 9:30am and 11:00am if you live closer to that area. Click on the link here for all the directions and information.

There are other churches I like on the links to the left which I hope you'll consider visiting as well if you don't live near here. If you have said that prayer and want to grow in your faith, it's important to get plugged into a church family. Like any family there will be issues, but just know people will love on you and support you like you've never experienced anywhere else. We're not perfect, just forgiven! Trite I know, but true. That forgiveness is available to you too.

If you don't like the first church you visit, please don't give up. Just continue looking because one day you'll walk in and feel like you're home. Since this is Sunday, I just guess it was time for me to preach! Hope you enjoyed the read. God bless you and come back soon. I promise not to always preach, but God put it on my heart today to share His love with you.

Happy Sunday everyone!

 

Sunday sermon on servanthood - it's a good one!

I love my church and the people who go there which is why I just have to share about the message this morning.

Jim, my pastor, has really been teaching a great sermon series called What Are We Here For - What we believe and What it means: Living Out What God Desires. Here's the notes for your edification:

1. That We Live Life Growing. Growing in our Faith
2 Thessalonians 1:3:

Thanksgiving and Prayer

    ³We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing. Ephesians 4:12:
¹²to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up

Ephesians 4:14:

    ¹⁴Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming.

Ephesians 4:15:
¹⁵Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.

2. Growing in our Love for God

Colossians 1:10:
¹⁰And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,

3. Growing in our Understanding of Who Christ is

2 Peter 3:18:
¹⁸But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever!

II That We Life Life Connecting

1. Connecting with God in Obedience

John 14:21:
²¹Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."

2. Connecting to God in Prayer

Philippians 4:6:
⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

3. Connecting with Others in Love

John 13:34:

    ³⁴"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

III That We Live Life Serving - Giving Yourself Away

1. People that listen to God must serve.

Mark 10:42:
⁴²Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Mark 10:43-45:
⁴³Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, ⁴⁴and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. ⁴⁵For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

1 Peter 5:2:
²Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve;

2. We are to Serve in all areas of life.

Colossians 3:23:
²³Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,Colossians 3:24:
²⁴since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

1 Peter 4:10:
¹⁰Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

Galatians 5:13:

    ¹³You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature^[a]; rather, serve one another in love.

3. As we choose to serve we benefit.

1 Timothy 3:13:
¹³Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

Joshua 24:15:
¹⁵ But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."

God's Hope for All Humanity

1. God Wants People to Be Saved.

1 Timothy 2:4:
⁴who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

2. We Are Part of the Salvation Process.

Acts 1:8:
⁸But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Acts 13:47:
⁴⁷For this is what the Lord has commanded us:
   " 'I have made you^[a] a light for the Gentiles,
      that you^[b] may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'^[c]"

Matthew 5:13:

Salt and Light

    ¹³"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.

Romans 10:1:

    ¹Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.

3. Lasting Salvation is Available to Everyone

Romans 10:13:
¹³for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."^[a]

Acts 4:12:
¹²Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."

What this all means to us

1. We have work to do.

Matthew 9:37-38
³⁷Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.³⁸Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

1 Corinthians 15:57-58
⁵⁷But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁵⁸Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

2. Our Efforts really do matter.
Jude 1:22:

    ²²Be merciful to those who doubt;

1 Corinthians 10:31:

    ³¹So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

This sermon has been brought to you courtesy of Jim Mackinga, Pastor of Bay Cities Community Church. Hope you enjoyed the read! I felt rather convicted about my attitude towards my gig after hearing it and now want to be more servant minded. We shall see!

This weekend was a lot of fun and I'll have to tell you about it some other time. Have a great week!

LA Inc, South Bay, Ralphs Grocery Store, Pavilions and the proposed Business tax hike

By Joy A. Kennelly

My stomach's upset from something I ate last night and I can't sleep so here I am. It's pretty bad when you get sick on the food you cook yourself! LOL It doesn't always happen, but sometimes it does. I think I need to learn how long you can keep uncooked meat in the fridge before it goes bad. Any chefs care to leave a comment?

Hopefully my girlfriends who came over last night aren't facing queasy stomachs too. I'm so bad. Oh well. Live and learn right? It could have been the rich chocolate cake I ate with whipped cream that Kirsten, my girlfriend, brought over too so I'll try to comfort myself with that thought. Or maybe the Martinelli's that Deborah brought over - that always affects my digestion for some odd reason too. Oy Vey!

In any case, just wanted to check in and say hi. I'm so thrilled that linking to that little address listing of Bay Cities Community Church has brought their real Web site to the forefront of Google!!! Now if any of you are interested in learning more about what my church is all about, or where it's located, check out the link ok? Would love to have you join me sometime. Seriously!

Jim Mackinga and his wife Sandy are the most loving, special people. Their whole family is really wonderful actually. Everyone I've met at this church is so friendly, open-minded and great. I just love being part of this community. Say hi to me, since I'd love to meet you as I don't know too many other people down here yet though. Who knows, if you walk through the door, maybe you'll see people you know already!

Did I tell you all that I had a meeting with the Director of Media Relations, Robin,  from LA Inc aka Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau to discuss future work together? We're in the negotiating stages so we'll see, but I'm hopeful this will work out well since they've always appreciated my work to date. It's all a blur on what I've shared here and what I haven't. Excuse me if I'm repeating myself.

I've been writing for LA Inc since 2002 and it's really helped me learn how to present the city of Los Angeles as a whole to the travel media. I've written copy for their Web site, pitched media for special events, and written numerous press releases highlighting all aspects of the city. I love it since it keeps me in the loop for the entire city and I enjoy doing the work. Plus, I'm good at it, if I do say so myself.:)

I'm planning to develop the travel aspect of my business as it applies to the South Bay since I have this experience, knowledge and connections gained from my relationship with LA Inc. Why not? Should be good.

Being away form the South Bay for so long I see it through a tourist's eyes right now. Sometimes that's good. Sometimes that bad. However, there's always room to grow in either direction so I'm excited to see where this new experience will take me and my hometown as a whole.

My Beach Writer group is excited about participating in my new endeavor which will be great because they're all very accomplished writers too. More to be revealed, but just know it's going to be good once it gets going.

I had a great meeting with Gary, my ad/marketing bud, yesterday too and we made some real progress on the concept. I'm excited to see where this all takes us since it has such great potential for positive outcomes for many people and businesses and the community as a whole. God is moving!

Just think - my public relations, Gary's design, and my Beach writers writing -- the skies the limit! I've been very fortunate to create a group of quality professionals (see my links to people I do business with  on the left of this column - those are my colleagues) who support my business in a variety of  ways which is great when I'm working with bigger clients. Now to get some interns to work with me and I'm all set.

So, for those of you still trying to decide what to do tomorrow (or should I say today since it's 4:30am in the morning Sunday - oy vey - someone give me a tranquilizer or pump my stomach...:) Ok, where was I? Oh yeah, what to do on Sunday after you've gone to church? Here's a few blurbs from the Easy Reader on a couple of fun events that only happen in the South Bay and I quote:

"Surfers Walk of Fame inductions
Eight surfing figures will be inducted into the Surfers Walk of Fame today at 4 p.m. Sunday at the base of the city pier. Inducted at the fifth annual Surfers Walk ceremony will be honorary members John “Whitney” Guild, Alf Lewis, Mike Stevenson and Donald Takayama, and pioneer members Toby Erlinger, Bev Morgan, Patrick O’Connor and Rosemarie Reimers-Rice."

The induction sounds cute and since you're down here, why don't you go to dinner, enjoy yourself and then hurry over to the beach to claim your "seat" for the huge summer Sunset Concert that happens at 6pm? Here's more details, again from the Easy Reader:

"It’s The Shondells, dude!
Hermosa Beach’s second Sunset Concert of the summer offers up the near-edible “Crimson and Clover” and “Sweet Cherry Wine” Tommy James & The Shondells. 6 p.m. on the sand, just south of the pier, and best get there early. 310-318-0280."

Now I'm not really into oldies music, but I am curious to see who is so I'll pop by for a bit. I just have this real curiosity about the people and the customs down here since some of it is new to me. I like to see what demographic these kinds of events appeal to too because then it helps me with my marketing.

If you know who you're trying to reach and what they like, then you have a better time of appealing to them. Just a little PR tip. Duh, right? But so many people just blindly create things without understanding the market and they fail as a result. That's why I'm trying to take as many meetings with influential people of the South Bay as possible so I understand where people's heads are at. We'll see.

I'm excited, more good meetings to happen soon. I'll keep you posted once there's a little more concrete plans in place. Hope you'll join me. I look forward to getting to know my South Bay neighbors better.

Ok, now that I've blogged, maybe I can go back to sleep. Have a good morning. Maybe I'll see you at the Pier events today! Just think, maybe an older, more mature, non-drunk population shows up for these events changing the demographic of the Hermosa Beach pier for once - what a novel concept, eh?

Would be nice to walk around there and not have to avoid the barf left staining the concrete from some stupid person the night before. ICKY! Since when is our Hermosa Beach Pier the place for 20 year olds to come and get wasted? Time to grow up people! 

Go to Alcoholics Anonymous, go to Rehab, go to church, go somewhere, but get your drinking under control if you're barfing in public and ruining a public place for others. YUCK. That's what I'm talking about people. The first step is accepting the fact you have a problem. If you need me to be the one to make you stop and look at yourself, then so be it.

I just hope you don't kill someone first driving home drunk before you wake up and smell the coffee. Yes Devin, everyone is responsible for their own drinking, but when it begins to affect the public and create the possibility for drunk driving, then that person's responsibility has obviously gone out the window and it's time someone speaks up. Plus, who wants to date or be married to an alcoholic? I feel like I'm doing an intervention for my city! Okay, enough of my soapbox. I need an Al Anon meeting.

I'll leave you with this cute story since it's so South Bay to me. Remember that very sweet slow boy I told you about who works at Ralphs? Well, last night I popped in for some things I needed for my dinner with the girls and he was in my check-out line.

As I was standing there waiting for the cashier to ring up the guy in front of me, all of sudden, quite loudly, I hear him say to me, "YOU LOOK BEAUTIFUL IN PINK TONIGHT." I was really embarrassed since he said it so loudly that people were turning to me and smiling, but I thought he was so cute and sincere I responded thank you and pretended like that happens to me all the time.

Then he tells me loudly again that his birthday is December 1 and do I know how quickly 8 months goes? VERY QUICKLY, very quickly. I agreed with him and made a mental note that I want to give him a birthday card on his birthday since it obviously means a great deal to him. He seemed content that I'd acknowledged him and was nice to him and didn't speak much until he wished me a great evening as he passed me my bags.

If you ever get a chance to visit the Ralphs down on Sepulveda just up from Pier Avenue, do. I think that guy is the sweetest person he makes me shop there because I enjoy my visits so much since he's so innocent and pure in all his communications.

I remember reading in some mag about another similar slow guy at another grocery store who was challenged by his store manager to make a difference as part of a store-wide initiative to bring in new business. This directive was given to the entire store, but this little guy took it to heart.

He began writing little positive sayings on slips of paper and putting each slip into people's grocery bags as he bagged their groceries. Pretty soon people began to stand in his line to receive the sayings they were so popular. He totally changed the m.o. of people visiting that store and business flourished ten-fold as a result of his small action. They began talking to each other in line and were happier.

That's how my little Ralphs guy makes me feel when I shop there. He's always courteous, interested in how I'm doing, and obviously cares about doing a good job. I think it's great that Roger Bacon of Ralphs has hired him. I hope he keeps him around for a long time. I hope that business flourishes just like that store with the other slow guy does.

Maybe Roger should implement the sayings too? Just think, maybe then he could afford the raise in business taxes that's being proposed - LOL. Does anyone else find that funny that he's so vocal about the measure? I could see some of the smaller stores in town being upset, but a major grocery store - give me a break!

Yes, it's a bummer to have to pay more taxes, but since when does $168 a year really pay for how much business you generate Roger? Where's your sense of civic duty?  Santa Monica charges small business owners twice that amount! Why shouldn't we bring our taxes current?

Going back to my original point of customer service being key, who knows what a different community this might be if that little effort to personalize your store's service was made? I don't know. Not saying it has to be done, but hey, if it worked at another similar store, then why not give it a try? You never know.

I do know that one of the main reasons I like shopping at the Pavilions down the street even though their prices are higher is because every single time I've ever asked for help finding something, the person working there who I've asked has personally walked me over to the section for my item and told me to have a nice day. That type of customer service is unheard of up in Hollywood. I love it!

It's nice to live in a community where you see familiar faces, people are sincere in their greetings to you when they see you, and there's a real sense of community tangible in the air. It's hard to describe to people who don't live here, but trust me, it's here. That's why I moved back and that's why I enjoy it.

On another note... I'm sure there's plenty of bars that have a lot at stake in this measure to increase the business tax too. Wouldn't it be nice if they actually gave back to the community rather than just take? Just a thought from an objective public relations specialist viewpoint.

What a great publicity angle to say, "Yes, we're making a shitload of money (excuse my French as my friends always say) from this city and as a result, we've decided to do the right thing and give back to the community by being willing to pay more taxes since we obviously use a lot more of the cities resources in police, trash, and other business." What a great story that would be to the greater Los Angeles area!

I can see it now - the Los Angeles Business Journal, The LA Times, CNBC and other news outlets picking up this story. Very interesting thought, eh? Maybe they'll read my blog and find it interesting that a city that has had the same business tax for years and years is having such great difficulty even putting a measure on the ballot for the general public to vote on. What are they afraid of?

I doubt the Beach Reporter finds it a story though seeing as part of the service the Manhattan Beach Chamber offers is an article in that paper for membership. Kind makes it difficult to keep your editorial perspective clean when your advertising revenue is generated by so many of the businesses you're writing about right? So many small papers will offer you a story if you buy an ad (not saying The Beach Reporter does it though) and I find that practice despicable from a journalist standpoint.

If someone has to buy their way into a paper to have a story written what does that say about the integrity of the story? It happens all the time with small papers though. The ad department begins to control the editorial which makes the balanced ethical reporting of an issue go out the window.

That's why when people want to pay me as a PR person strictly based on whether or not I can guarantee they'll get media coverage I refuse. If the media is doing their job, then they won't be bought and I won't influence them to write a story about my client unless there's a real news story there. That's why I'm real particular about who I work with and very selective on when I send out press releases.

If I can't help you or I don't think you're newsworthy, I won't take your money. I just turned away a short filmmaker the other day who was just oozing money because I didn't think his film would get picked up as news until he got it into a festival. Now him as a filmmaker, he was very interesting and I could see him personally getting coverage now, but a short film- not so much. I used to produce film festivals for years and know this world quite well.

Plus, I bounce things off my other colleague, Marcia, who also has done lots of film publicity and she agreed with me. We always collaborate. Same with my friends Kim Koury and Adrienne Dorsey. Great people to collaborate with.

I have found it interesting that every press release I've ever sent The Beach Reporter which has been picked up by other news sources numerous times, hasn't been picked up by that paper. Makes me wonder if my letter to the editor will see the light of day since I'm not a chamber member, nor have I bought an ad to promote my services since that would defeat what my business is all about! Maybe since my letterhead has my Santa Monica mailing address there's a bias in that regards too? Who knows...LOL

Ok, back to the proposed Hermosa Beach Business Tax Increase issue at hand.

What's up with the "private" meeting on July 31? I don't get it.  Makes you wonder what the city council is thinking doesn't it? What's going on behind those closed doors? Aren't they supposed to be the ones who help the city to take care of itself? Why wouldn't this measure not be a no-brainer - raising the current tax of $168/year to something that's commensurate with your business revenue?

I'm confused and just asking that's all. I'm not into politics, but thought that's why people put these people in office-- to make the city a better place to live, not keep things status quo. Think of the money that would bring in the city! Pretty amazing things could be done then.

That's one of the things that drive me crazy about the South Bay (small town politics!), but there's a lot of good things down here too which I'd rather focus on and move forward with. Stay tuned.  But don't worry. I'm not running for office any time soon. Have you ever watched the city council meetings on TV? BORING!!!!!! It's like watching paint dry. However, the city characters do liven it up a bit when they speak their piece.

So, now I really better try to go back to sleep because I want to hit the 9:30am service of Bay Cities and get chuched. And no, I didn't misspell that word - that's a spillover from my days at my gospel church.

See ya!

Entourage, The Blog/Zine Network, Frontline Writing, Bay Cities Church, Trilogy Spa

By Joy A. Kennelly

Entourage was great tonight! Totally cracks me up. Can you imagine hating someone so much and then being stuck working with them over and over again? I can't! This plot line is great - can't wait for next week.The drug scene was a little excessive though. I wouldn't doubt this type BS goes on in Hollywood, but I've been very fortunate never to be a part of it. Not my scene. At all.

Moving right along.

Met with my Blog/Zine Network group today which was interesting as usual. We had more new people join us (for some reason I'm having deja vu. Did I write this last month? Oy vey!) Learned some new blogging tips which is always helpful. That's why I started this particular blog with my "byline." We'll see what happens doing that. Just curious.

David Tandet of Frontline Writing had some interesting Web sites for us to review and utilize in the future. I would tell you, but then I'd have to shoot you since you haven't joined the group yet! Just kidding. But seriously, if you want to learn about blogging, join us. I'm going to start inviting more guest speakers to come and we'll all learn how to grow this type "business" together!

Bay Cities Community Church was good as always. Sometimes music just hits my spirit and today I was tearing up again. I can just see myself on stage crying occasionally if I do sing with the worship team, but hey, I'm an emotional person and music can hit your emotions. So! We shall see!

Enjoyed hitting Trilogy Spa Hermosa Beach today after church for a bit. Was supposed to have a friend join me, but she was upset I switched day spas on her last minute so she bailed. I felt really, really bad at first, but after enjoying the rain shower and the floating water bed experience, I was feeling no pain. I really like their mango coconut sugar scrub - I smell so yummy! Don'tcha wish you were here with me right now? I smell good enough to eat! LOL

I was feeling pretty good about myself after that treat. I guess it showed because men were real attentive to me at the smog place. I must buy more dresses! It's nice to be feminine, especially since it's been so hot.

Now to get up early and take care of business. Last night some of the drunk idiots either visiting people here, or who live here were talking loudly and trying to climb our back wall at 3am. The bastards. I almost yelled, but when I opened the window wider I think they got the hint and shut up. OY VEY! More drunken idiots in the South Bay. Oh well.

I know I'd hear drunks a lot in certain parts of Hollywood too, but I've just never lived near this type behavior before - lucky I guess. At least people haven't been doing their stupid "Woo Hoo" calls since I told one of my neighbors that whoever did that at 2 and 3am were asses. Word travels fast I guess. It's not Georgia's Rules - it's Joy's Rules. JUST KIDDING!

I just find it highly disrespectful to be loud and obnoxious when people living here have small children. Maybe those "Woo Hoo" people have moved out or something. Good.

I'll get off my soapbox now.

Life is good.

I love my place, love my pool, love my friends down here, and love the beauty of the South Bay.

I just love being able to drive down PCH and look over to see the ocean whenever I'm at a crossroads of streets. There's just something majestic about an endless ocean that goes off into the horizon.

And with that, I'll bid you good night.

Sleep tight. God bless.

This little devotional came just at the right time - check it out

This isn't something I've written, but something I receive daily called "Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional." It blessed me (especially in light of what's going on with me right now) and I hope it does you too.

Welcome to Encouragement for Today Daily Devotional, a free devotional from Crosswalk.com, the world's largest Christian website.

June 29, 2007                                             Honest Prayer

By Rachel Olsen

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

 Devotion:

Have you ever shaken your fist at God over His answer to your prayers, or lack of answers?

Have you grown angry with Him over the injustices in your life?

If so, you’ll be able to relate to the prophet Habakkuk, living roughly 600 years before Christ. His book of the Bible begins with this complaint: “How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save me. Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate wrong?” (Hab.1:2-3, NIV). God answered Habakkuk by telling him to be patient and to watch, that He will do amazing things and usher in justice, but only in His timing.

Passionate, honest, gut-level, even angry prayers have been recorded through out the Bible. Habakkuk wasn’t the only one to complain. Moses, Gideon, and Elijah all questioned God. Job questioned his reason for existence, and cursed the day God made him. Job said, “I loathe my very life; therefore I will give free rein to my complaint and speak out in the bitterness of my soul. I will say to God, Do not condemn me, but tell me what charges you have against me. Does it please you to oppress me, to spurn the work of your hands...?” (Job 10:1-3, NIV).

In his anguish Job accused God of afflicting people for no reason (Job 9:17), overwhelming people with misery (Job 9:18), not caring about injustice (Job 9:22, 24), and laughing at the pain of the innocent (Job 9: 22). Of course these accusations are not accurate, but it is true that is how we often feel in times of severe suffering or testing. God knows our deepest thoughts and feelings, so it’s futile to think we can hide them from Him. Better to come clean with how we really feel, get it off our chest in prayer, and clear the way to hear and receive God’s answer or comfort.

I’ve complained to God for allowing my loved ones to die or fall deep into sin, for allowing valuable things to be stolen from me, for allowing my reputation to be unfairly tarnished, for allowing physical suffering in my body, or for not allowing what I feel I deserve. I have found the best thing I can do is honestly take those feelings to God where they can be traded for His perspective and His comforting assurance. Though God may not always change my circumstances the way I want Him to, He can and does change my perspective on those circumstances and enable me to endure them.

God listens when we complain about injustice. He hates seeing the unrighteous prosper as much as we do, particularly when it’s at the hands of the innocent. He understands when we feel shortchanged or opposed. Read through the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life and you’ll be reminded just how much Jesus can relate!

I urge you to be honest before God in prayer today. While maintaining a degree of holy respect for Him and thanksgiving for your life, pour out the good, the bad and the ugly of your feelings. As Habakkuk, Job and others discovered, God can handle your intense emotions and questions. Though He rarely explains Himself fully to us – perhaps because we can’t fully understand this side of eternity – He does flood us with His power, love and peace when we come humbly and honestly before Him and pour out our heart.

Dear Lord, it’s hard for me to understand Your ways. It’s hard for me to overlook offenses. It’s hard for me to deal graciously with the difficult situations or people in my life. Sometimes I grow angry with You for allowing them into my life. But I don’t want to be a bitter, miserable person. Help me to see through Your eyes, and to endure all that You allow into my life with Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Just a reminder of God's goodness

This came as just the right time. I hope you're encouraged by it as much as I've been. Amen.

Just a Reminder

By Melissa Taylor

“I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” Psalm 16:8 (NLT)

Devotion:

A few months ago, I went to a weight loss center. Once again, I was ready to lose weight. The first thing my encouraging counselor asked me to do was to write a letter to myself. “Why?” I asked. She replied, “I want you to remember how you feel right now and why getting healthy is a priority in your life. Over time, you may forget. If you do, I’m going to mail it to you to serve as just a reminder.”

I have found that I often need reminders. I’m a visual person, so visual cues are quite useful to me. I have scripture cards on the inside of my cabinets to bring God’s Word to mind during the day. There is a picture of my niece in my car to remind me to pray for my sister’s family. My laundry room is covered with post it notes containing God’s Word reminding me to be thankful for the laundry I am doing and the blessings who wear those clothes. In our kitchen we have a calendar containing the family’s schedule and my life could not function without the reminders I keep in my daily planner. We need reminders to keep us on track, but we also need to be reminded of how special God is. 

A few years ago I went to the store in search of a card for my husband. It wasn’t our anniversary or his birthday; I just wanted to get him a card reminding him of how special he was to me. An unexpected thing happened that day. The first card I picked up read:

In this stressful world,

Yours is the presence that quiets me,

The voice that calms me,

The touch that comforts me…

…the love that helps me remember what is most important in each day.

You’re everything to me.

As I closed this card, my eyes filled with tears. The words were beautiful, only they weren’t meant for my husband. They were meant for my Lord. I did not buy my sweet husband a card that day, and I think he would understand. I bought a card for God instead, to serve as just a reminder.

The words on this card remind me Who I can turn to, Who can comfort me, and Who should be my everything. And that person is not my husband. As great as Jeff is, he can never meet those needs in my life. No one person can - only God can. I need that reminder every day. Not only did I purchase this card, but I wrote a note to God on it and signed my name to it. 

Be encouraged today that God wants to be your everything. He desires to be number one in your life. If you are like me, you may forget that at times. I carry that card around with me for that very reason, to serve as just a reminder.

Dear Lord, In this stressful world, Yours is the Presence that quiets me, the Voice that calms me, the Touch that comforts me, and the Love that helps me remember what is most important in each day. You’re Everything to me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Some words of encouragement

Just in case you're feeling the weight of the world too, here's some verses that Pastor Jim Mackinga from Bay Cities Community Church shared today from his sermon "Making My Life Better" which really encouraged me.

BTW, if anyone is interested in joining me sometime, the address is: Baycities Redondo 400 S. Broadway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 ph: 310 373-1818 services at 8am & 9:30am - I hit the 9:30am. Love to have you join me there!

Okay, here's some words of encouragement for today:

Ephesians 3:17b-21:
¹⁷And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, ¹⁸may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, ¹⁹and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

    ²⁰Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, ²¹to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Jeremiah 29:11-13:
¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Proverbs 21:2-3:

    ² All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart. ³ To do what is right and just
       is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Psalm 16:8-12:

    ⁸ I have set the LORD always before me.
       Because he is at my right hand,
       I will not be shaken.

    ⁹ Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
       my body also will rest secure,

    ¹⁰ because you will not abandon me to the grave, ^[a]
       nor will you let your Holy One ^[b] see decay.

    ¹¹ You have made ^[c] known to me the path of life;
       you will fill me with joy in your presence,
       with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Hebrews 12:2-4:
²Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Psalm 18:30-31:

    ³⁰ As for God, his way is perfect;
       the word of the LORD is flawless.
       He is a shield
       for all who take refuge in him.

    ³¹ For who is God besides the LORD ?
       And who is the Rock except our God?

Psalm 56:4:

    ⁴ In God, whose word I praise,
       in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
       What can mortal man do to me?

Proverbs 12:20:

    ²⁰ There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil,
       but joy for those who promote peace.

Proverbs 17:20:

    ²⁰ A man of perverse heart does not prosper;
       he whose tongue is deceitful falls into trouble.

2 Corinthians 5:17:
¹⁷Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

That's all for now. I've got a lot to do today, but couldn't resist sharing these verses to encourage you wherever you are right now. I know they encourage me!

God bless and Happy Sunday.

 

Now for a little Biblical history lesson

Hidden Things

By Wendy Pope

“He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness,
       and light dwells with him." Daniel 2:22 (NIV)

 
Devotion:

Recently, and quite unexpectedly, a dear member of our church passed away. It started out as a normal day. He was to celebrate his 73^rd birthday with his wife of 50 years that evening. After a workout at the local gym, he died. His death, though sudden to us, was no surprise to the Lord. The Lord was ready to give this precious man his final inheritance.

God never wastes an opportunity to teach us something, if we will listen. I had just finished reading the account of Moses' final charge to the Israelites before crossing the Jordan into the long awaited Promised Land. The descendents of those enslaved by the Egyptians were ready to claim their land after living in the desert for 40 years. All the descendents expect Reuben, that is.

Reuben approached Moses and asked if his tribe could claim the land on the east side of the Jordan. He explained to Moses that his people could build a fortified city there. The land was fertile and right for harvesting. He agreed to fight the battles with the others, to ensure the conquering of Canaan but when the battles were over he wanted to return to the land east of the Jordan.

This puzzled me. Why would Reuben, after surviving all those years, turn down the promise the LORD was ready to fulfill? I could not understand it. Then I traced Reuben's history and discovered the reason. Many years before this time, Reuben, who was the first born son to Jacob, defiled his father's marriage bed by sleeping with his father's concubine. This sin was not revealed until Jacob was on his death bed. At this time, Jacob took away the "double-portion" birthright that was due to Reuben as the firstborn. The sin was revealed and the blessing was removed. Now, it all made sense to me.

Reuben knew that when he crossed over the Jordan he would not get the finest property. He would have to watch someone else get his blessing. Therefore, he made is own arrangement. His own plan to get what he thought would be the best. Little did he know, years later the land he chose as the best would be the first taken into captivity by the Assyrians.

What we think is hidden from God is not. We gladly exchange the potential pain and consequence that comes from confessing our sin for the "greener pastures" the enemy offers. We don't realize when we do make this exchange; we also forfeit immediate forgiveness and redemption into a right relationship with Jesus. We needlessly spend life separated from God. We aren't fooling God, we are only fooling ourselves. He knows all things that are hidden in the darkness. 

Don't wait until you are on your death bed to find out you've missed your birthright. Your birthright is described clearly in John 10:10, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." As a child of the Most High King, you stand to inherit an abundant and full life now, today. If you want to know how to do this, how to collect your inheritance click: Do You Know Him? 

Allow God to bring into the light that which is dark and restore your brokenness.

 Dear Lord, I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I want Your forgiveness for the all times I have attempted to hide things from You. You are Truth and only You can set me free. Today, I want to live in Your freedom. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Check out today's Variety on Faith in Hollywood!

You can do it online at www.variety.com - I think they did an excellent job of presenting a well-balanced thorough examination of everything Christian in Hollywood. It's located in the lower right corner. Keep scrolling and you'll see it. If you want to read it online you better look today though because I don't know how long they showcase things on the site. You can always buy the actual mag too though.

The only article I thought was silly was the one about the Pentecostal Preacher who was given a vision to create a film company and has a huge budget attached to his first film. Pentecostal people are always a little out there in my opinion, but I guess Variety had to show "our" weirdos too. At least the other articles were well-balanced, reflective of real Christianity, and well-researched. Not that that one isn't, it's just focused too much on one guy who just happens to be a weirdo.

Sometimes first time filmmakers don't realize they need to prove themselves with smaller films, do well, and then go after larger budgets. Why would an investor give millions and millions of dollars to someone with no experience, no track record, no connections? It's just like in the real world, but people seem to think because it's a film it makes it different. Maybe that's why they're called artists. All passion, no business sense.:)

The article I'm really enjoying is the one entitled Perspective from a Christian Critic. Here's three paragraphs that I especially liked. And I quote:

"In addition to relying on Christian media outlets and leaders, religious moviegoers can turn to thorough, often spoiler-filled content descriptions, especially when considering what their children can see. Web sites like Kids-in-Mind.com and ScreenIt.com provide parents with painstakingly accurate lists of how much sex, violence and foul language there is in any given film (few would be surprised to learn there are 63 F-bombs in Chris Rock's "I Think I Love My Wife"). (I THOUGHT THERE WERE A LOT, BUT NOT THAT MANY! NO WONDER IT BUGGED ME!)

"Conservative parents are bothered by sex, while liberal parents are more sensitive to violence; conservative Christians are very upset about language containing religious profanities, while liberal Christians are more upset about the F-word, etc.," (I THINK I'M LIBERAL BASED ON THIS ANALYSIS BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT BUGS ME!) says Aris Christofedes, editor of Critics Inc., the parent company of Kids-in-Mind. "Our reviews are basically a list of ingredients, similar to what you find on food item labels."

These days, Baehr says, Christians have more options at the box office than they did two decades ago. For every "non-Christian" film like "Brokeback Mountain" or the latest "Harry Potter," there's a Christian-friendly film like "Narnia" or "Superman Returns." "In the '80s, one of the only movies with positive references to Jesus Christ was 'The Trip to Bountiful,' but now the figure has risen to 50% of films. That's a very good sign."

Here's her bio: (Formerly AOL's Moviefone Mama, Sandie Angulo Chen writes movie reviews for parents at Common Sense Media.)

If you're at all curious, check out complete coverage on the Variety site! Very interesting reading (at least to me!) Maybe that's what influenced the network to keep Studio 60 going... Who knows?

Have a good one. Off to play on Deal or No Deal. Look for me wearing the lime green jacket on the surprise neighborhood visit. HA! Got to keep my life interesting - too much publicity makes me bored - although I am getting good responses from my latest outreach. Will keep you posted.