Did I say I was living in the “manifold graces” of God in my last blog? Why, yes I did! You know, it’s a good thing that our God is omnipotent and all powerful and wonderful and stuff. I could honestly say we make Him work so hard to bless us except that I know He doesn’t work hard . . . nothing is hard for our God.
So two or three years ago before cancer had ever reared its ugly, demonic head in our family I felt as if God was inspiring me to start a publishing company. I began to research it at that time and just felt as if it was too hard to do. I had a day job that kept me quite busy and there were so many pieces to publishing that I put the idea on the shelf. Funny how we think we get to put God on a shelf until we think it’s time for His plan to work. Well, the idea came back to me during my journey through cancer and this time I had a bout with ‘chemo brain’ and I had to listen. This time around I knew it was Him talking and even my Bishop made a comment to me about doing some editing work for various people and that I should get paid for that work. Wow, that was pivotal!
For the first time I realized, rather recognized that my ability to edit is a gift from God! I mean, I’ve been correcting people’s papers and writing letters for people forever, but I just thought of it as something I had the ability to do. I was good at it. Now writing, oh yeah, I can do that…I’m a writer; I enjoy writing – that’s my gift. Who died and convinced me that I only have one gift? C’mon, tell the truth do you think you have ONLY one gift? And can you relate to being good at something, so good that people seek you out for it, but it’s not sexy enough for you so you kinda say “Oh, that’s just something that I do”.
Now, light bulbs are going off in my head and I get it. He already told me to start a publishing company and I have the skills and abilities to do it! Every story needs tension right, so that part of me that refused to budge was busy thinking up all kinds of reasons why this was just my ‘imagination’. Finally I asked God, “Lord, if this is your direction for my life, I need to visualize it, I need to have a name for it. How can I begin if I don’t even have a name for it?” And in true God fashion, the very next time I was in church Pastor Charisse was teaching mid-week service and was talking about a bookstore they had previously – Manifold Wisdom. And as she said the word ‘manifold’ a picture of the grace of God in my life flashed before me. And I knew it ~ Manifold Grace Publishing Company.
I began to vibe this name, it came alive to me and I began to envision what it would look like and how I wanted it to feel. The name changed to ‘house’ instead of ‘company’ because I’m much warmer than a company. As I began constructing these things around my company I recognized my purpose was to “help people share their testimonies with the world”.
Manifold Grace Publishing House is open for business but before I tell you more about that I want to encourage you to meditate your own life and seriously hear the things God is telling you to do. At my church, DWO, we pray for ‘destiny intersections’. It would take way too long for me to unravel the providence of God who made plans for me before the beginning of time and has established relationships in my life to help me fulfill my destiny – today. Trust me, the things I don’t know, He sends people my way to help me. That is a destiny intersection. That is the providence of God. That is the manifold grace of God.
So, listen, one of the first things I’m doing as Manifold Grace Publishing House is conducting a workshop, in conjunction with Kingdom Scribes Publishing called “So You Want To Write A Book Huh?” It’s going to be held on Saturday March 5, 2011 at the Redford Library – check out the flyer! And feel free to share it with anyone interested in the book writing process – if you’re coming – email me Darlene@manifoldgracepublishinghouse.com
Stay tuned! This is SO exciting. It’s getting GOOD!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Closing Doors
OMG!!! Can you believe it? I actually retired from AT&T on December 30, 2010! It happened so supernaturally that I knew it was time for that door to close in my life. After my successful journey through breast cancer I was confronted with several things, changes actually, that happened in corporate AT&T that quite discouraged me. OK, they made me angry! Afterall, I had invested 35 years with the company and I surely deserved better treatment than that. I won’t go into all the gory details here because I have much more exciting things to talk about, but suffice it to say one of the catalyst was losing 20 days of vacation time simply because my disability, my disease was not resolved during the same calendar year that it started in.
I had a bad attitude … no other way to say it; I was angry. On the day I reported back to work I met with Crystal (my money girl) and asked her “Can I get out of here?” She came and looked at the numbers and we discussed my plan forward. It was a good meeting but having a bad attitude was really bothering me. I had to pray about it. “Father God, right now I have a really bad attitude and I know it is not your will that I be angry or upset – worry. I ask you Father to help me get over this feeling. I did not spend 35 years with this company performing successfully to go out on a sour note, I’ve worked too hard. God help me get my joy back.” And I knew that when I did indeed “get my joy back” it would be time for me to leave.
BTW, a critical piece – I have a wonderful boss! She ‘cared’ for me from San Diego as best she could and because of it I decided that I was going to do everything she asked of me in exemplary fashion. And I did and the projects she gave me were things I liked so I dove into them with excitement. It got to the point where she would think of things she’d like for our team to do and I would figure out how to get it going and we’d work together on it and she’d say “I love it!” I got quite used to hearing that and forgot my prayer about getting my joy back. Well, it was back! It was now October/November and I was already thinking about how we were going to accomplish her plans for next year since I always vacation out the end of the year.
It was also time for my first mammogram since the end of my treatments. It showed there was no more cancer in the left breast but there was a blip – calcifications – in the right one and I had to have a stereotactic biopsy. And as I was whining to God about it (read my last blog) I was reminded that during the cancer journey He told me to start a publishing company. I was reminded that I was supposed to leave when I got my joy back –code word for ‘got my attitude together’. So in the face of these reminders I accepted the fact that it was time for me to retire.
I had no sooner decided to leave in March than we got word that our team was going to have to reduce; we NEVER had to reduce before! And fortunately or should I say supernaturally I was allowed to opt for a severance letter. Ordinarily, severance is at the discretion of the leadership team – you don’t get to choose to go! But my boss knew I was ready to go because I had asked her if I could get a severance letter earlier but there were none at that time. Anyway she worked it out so that I would indeed get this letter! That means I got a severance – bonus – of a year’s salary AND I got to retire with full retirement status/benefits!
I thank God that I’ve grown, as a person, to the point where I can go to God and say “Father, help me get my attitude together!” I asked, He did it and I retired from AT&T in good standing, leaving a great boss and a great team with a good attitude and a fat check to subsidize the pension which was a shadow of its former greatness, LOL. In any case, I closed the door on a 36 year career with joy and excitement at living in the manifold graces of a God who is SO providential that all I had to do was trust Him and live as He says and ‘forget not its benefits’!
Bless the Lord, O my soul...
I had a bad attitude … no other way to say it; I was angry. On the day I reported back to work I met with Crystal (my money girl) and asked her “Can I get out of here?” She came and looked at the numbers and we discussed my plan forward. It was a good meeting but having a bad attitude was really bothering me. I had to pray about it. “Father God, right now I have a really bad attitude and I know it is not your will that I be angry or upset – worry. I ask you Father to help me get over this feeling. I did not spend 35 years with this company performing successfully to go out on a sour note, I’ve worked too hard. God help me get my joy back.” And I knew that when I did indeed “get my joy back” it would be time for me to leave.
BTW, a critical piece – I have a wonderful boss! She ‘cared’ for me from San Diego as best she could and because of it I decided that I was going to do everything she asked of me in exemplary fashion. And I did and the projects she gave me were things I liked so I dove into them with excitement. It got to the point where she would think of things she’d like for our team to do and I would figure out how to get it going and we’d work together on it and she’d say “I love it!” I got quite used to hearing that and forgot my prayer about getting my joy back. Well, it was back! It was now October/November and I was already thinking about how we were going to accomplish her plans for next year since I always vacation out the end of the year.
It was also time for my first mammogram since the end of my treatments. It showed there was no more cancer in the left breast but there was a blip – calcifications – in the right one and I had to have a stereotactic biopsy. And as I was whining to God about it (read my last blog) I was reminded that during the cancer journey He told me to start a publishing company. I was reminded that I was supposed to leave when I got my joy back –code word for ‘got my attitude together’. So in the face of these reminders I accepted the fact that it was time for me to retire.
I had no sooner decided to leave in March than we got word that our team was going to have to reduce; we NEVER had to reduce before! And fortunately or should I say supernaturally I was allowed to opt for a severance letter. Ordinarily, severance is at the discretion of the leadership team – you don’t get to choose to go! But my boss knew I was ready to go because I had asked her if I could get a severance letter earlier but there were none at that time. Anyway she worked it out so that I would indeed get this letter! That means I got a severance – bonus – of a year’s salary AND I got to retire with full retirement status/benefits!
I thank God that I’ve grown, as a person, to the point where I can go to God and say “Father, help me get my attitude together!” I asked, He did it and I retired from AT&T in good standing, leaving a great boss and a great team with a good attitude and a fat check to subsidize the pension which was a shadow of its former greatness, LOL. In any case, I closed the door on a 36 year career with joy and excitement at living in the manifold graces of a God who is SO providential that all I had to do was trust Him and live as He says and ‘forget not its benefits’!
Bless the Lord, O my soul...
Thursday, October 21, 2010
♫I’m a Soldier in the Army of the Lord♫
The Whole Armour
Shortly after I posted “Case Closed” I got the results of the mammogram back, they showed the left breast all clear! "Hallelujah, of course it was clear" I thought without wonder, but then he told me there were ‘calcifications’ that showed up in the right breast. It just so happened that I was at the doctor’s office the day after the mammogram. He had explained that it was unlikely the results would be back so quickly but he checked anyway and, what do you know – he had them. His demeanor changed quickly as he confidently assured me it was unlikely, after all I’d just been through, that these little rocks were cancerous.
I wasn’t worried about cancer, God had already told me no more cancer. But I was thinking “God I know you told me I am a warrior and I’m good with that but can a daughter be a princess for a few minutes before stepping back into warrior princess mode?” Yes, I was actually whining! It’s true, being the only girl – and oldest – in my ‘four boys and a girl’ family I was a little spoiled – not rotten, but spoiled. Then the four boys grew up and spoiled me too; gotta love them! But I never whined! I hate whining, I raised my kids with no whining and all the nieces, nephews and other assorted little people I love know I don’t like whining. Naturally it was just as distasteful when the words left my lips and I quickly recanted.
“Lord, forgive my momentary lapse, I guess I’m just a little battle weary and wanted a break but I know you are in control of every situation in my life and I’m doing my best to hear you at all times. I’m not afraid of cancer so whatever I have to do to work out this next situation I’ll do it. I’m your temple so you must be doing more physical renovations…I’m good with that. I’m in your hands.” Later Pastor Shari and I were talking and I mentioned it to her, she simply said “Stay focused! Don’t let this distract you, just go do what you gotta do and keep moving forward.” God has a way of sending reinforcements when you need them, it was a good witness. Anyway, a couple of days later, they did a ‘stereotactic’ biopsy that removed the benign calcifications and it only took about forty five minutes then I was on my way.
Fast forward to last Sunday when Bishop Ben explained “up/downs”. I had only heard of them from one of my favorite movies ‘Remember the Titans’ and as Bishop was talking I could faintly hear Denzel – I mean Coach Boone - in the background in the ear of one of his players who was doing up/downs saying “4th quarter, 4th quarter, 4th quarter”. Thanks Bishop for explaining up/downs, now I know what they’re for! So I did my first up/down (DWO style) Monday morning and had the most peaceful day. The Spirit of the Lord was speaking to me throughout the day and for some odd reason, I just did whatever He said. No, “I’ll do it later” or “nah, that’s not you God” I just did it and really enjoyed my day. Especially when he gave me great revelation of what being a warrior meant. I was in Ephesians 6 and you probably already know this because I did, but I saw it in a whole different way today, maybe you need to shine up your armour too! Check this out.
Ephesians 6:10-19
Paul gives exhortation to the Church at Ephesus that standing on your faith fights the devil.
Observations:
(10) We are to be strong in the Lord and in the power of ‘His’ might – not in our own strength. If we are strong in the Lord it is His might that vanquishes evil all we have to do is put on the Whole Armour!
(11) The purpose of putting on the Whole Armour is to stand against the wiles of the devil – not to go out, gun cocked to fight, but to stand
(12) The devil is principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world and spiritual wickedness in high places not flesh and blood – we are not to fight against each other (flesh and blood) but instead the fight is against worldly authority and rulers of darkness; evil; evil spirits
(13) We take the Whole Armour to withstand in the evil day and having done all to stand – so we know there are evil days and the whole armour helps us stand strong in them and when we have done all WE can, we continue to stand…not be moved, confident that our Lord will use the power of His might through us and in us
(14) Stand therefore w/loins girt about with truth – the loins control the lower extremities – hips for walking, procreation/reproduction, today referred to as your core. It’s where the strength to power your body comes from; your balance. Truth must be present in us at the core of our being, in our gut, our very essence/life
(14) Stand therefore having on breastplate of righteousness – a breastplate protects the heart – if your heart is injured/damaged you’ll definitely have trouble standing, it is your physical lifesource, it keeps oxygen and blood flowing to every organ necessary to keep you alive. It is also your spiritual lifesource – “with the heart man believeth unto righteousness…confession is made unto salvation” (Rom 10:10). David asked God to “create in me a clean heart” (Ps 51:10). The heart must be righteousness. I’m reminded of one of the Indiana Jones movies where he was seeking the Ark of the Covenant and while trapped in a cave or something his young sidekick warns him “Indy, cover your heart!” because that’s what those devil worshippers would try to extract from him. And that's what the devil wants to attack in you today. C’mon Saints, cover your heart!
(15) Feet shod w/preparation of the gospel of peace – our feet carry us to and fro and should ALWAYS be peace seeking. Ps 120 “I am for peace: but when I speak, they are for war” so we can expect the battles and the attacks but we must keep peace beneath our feet
(16) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked – ABOVE ALL, faith is your shield, remember the purpose of the Whole Armour is to withstand attack. ABOVE ALL indicates it is critical in your arsenal – being able to trust God completely (faith) is your strongest weapon…how else will you be able to quench ALL the fiery darts of the attacker. We must always battle for our faith, battle to keep that shield before us. We can never drop our guard…it has the ability to quench…
(17) Take the helmet of salvation – the helmet protects the head and while salvation occurs in the heart, the head must have knowledge of Him and His ways. The head must carry out directions per the heart. Like with the heart, injury or damage is life threatening. Once the heart is convicted it is the heads job to remind the body – with the knowledge of salvation, of God. It’s the heads job to keep track of every single situation God has saved you from; it records all of your faith-building ‘exercises’
(17) Take the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God – the one true piece of offense – the sword - is the sword of the Spirit, our guide, which is the Word of God. This is profound to me – as we march into battle we do so with only one offensive weapon the Spirit and the Word and we know they are one. It behooves us to sharpen our sword by making sure we know the Word and have it hidden in our hearts. Just as life and death are in the power of the tongue (Ps 18:20) we can ‘pull out our sword’ when attacked and speak life (the battle was won on the cross) or death (the devil is already defeated) in every situation.
But it doesn’t end there, we are now dressed for war, we’ve got our war clothes on, we’re in the army of the Lord. We go into battle with the truth embedded in our belly and with righteous hearts. Our feet seek the path of peace and we know Him as our Creator; our Savior. Our strongest weapons are our faith, which is the shield and the Spirit/Word of God, which is the sword. Now fully armed and protected we must receive our marching orders – (18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; - this is beautiful to me because our job in this army is to be in prayer and supplication for our brothers and sisters; for each other. That means we must keep the body of Christ, especially those on the front lines, on the altar in prayer and supplication (which is a humble, earnest prayer or petition). Wake up intercessors, praying in the Spirit. But then we ALL have a place on the front line as we pray (19) that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel. We must pray also that we, each of us, may boldly share the gospel, the mystery of salvation, of Christ, of a Father who loves us beyond the limits of our imagination…could YOU do John 3:16?
What are we armed and ready for? To fulfill the great commission (Matt 28:19-20)! We are armed and dangerous because our sword and shield is stronger than any weapon the devil has and the Whole Armour protects us from evil, from him. So let’s get out there! We are warriors, we are intercessors, we are to make known the mysteries of the gospel – in other words, share your testimony! Tell someone about your Father, your God and how Jesus saved you. Tell someone that He is real and He is alive in us …a very present help in trouble…Savior, Redeemer, Prince of Peace, Creator, Mighty Counselor, Deliverer, Healer, our dwelling place, the way, the truth and the life, a strong tower, the light, Holy One, the Alpha and Omega, Mighty God, everlasting Father, Jehovah, Yahweh. What is He to you? You got your war clothes on? The assignment is simple ~ get on your knees then stand your ground and then you’d better tell somebody!
That’s what being a warrior means to me…
Sunday, September 26, 2010
What A Night!
The air was thick with anticipation, excitement! It had been that way for the past couple of weeks. We had been calling our Pastor “Bishop-Elect” Ben for months and now, since about two weeks out, we began counting down. “12 Days to Promotion of the Faithful” and at that time our Pastor, Ben Gibert would be confirmed as “Bishop”.
It was no wonder we were excited; we’d gotten a history lesson; an explanation of the Promotion of the Faithful ceremony and a chance to witness a prophecy being manifested; not to mention experiencing a pride in our holy man of God who was being promoted. Afterall, he’d made it clear that because we were all connected, we were all going into another dimension together. Had we not ‘followed’ he would have had no one to ‘lead’. So here’s the deal, the elders of our church submitted a letter to Pastor Ben’s spiritual father, Bishop I.V. Hilliard requesting the process begin to confirm him as a Bishop. The letter was read in church one Sunday as was Bishop Hilliard’s affirmative response. It was on from there.
For the record, our Pastor has been shepherding other pastors as well as our DWO family. Destiny Outreach Ministerial Alliance (DOMA) was established to provide that covering and the Ministerial Development Institute (MDI) was born to provide “minister in training” experiences for those interested. Men of Valor (MOV), Women of Virtue (WOV), Prayer Engine are excellent discipleship opportunities for our family at large and there are NUMEROUS ‘arms’ in the church for all to serve in. If you are a DWOite then you understand the 7 Distinctives that are our mission and you know that we pray for Souls, Members, Manifestations, Resources and Destiny Intersections. We have a food bank to serve those who need it, ministries for children at every age, several yearly outreaches, health and wellness seminars/programs – I mean Detroit World Outreach is a great place to belong!
Our Pastor has taught us that Praise is how we enter His house and Worship is how we engage the Holy Spirit to touch us each and every time we come together; unity is critical. If you were to poll the house I dare say you’d get a different list of favorite Pastor Ben messages. Ok, so my short list – just off the top of my head – includes Never Alone, Order of the Uncommon, God’s Kingdom First Priority, Body, Spirit, Soul; Never Going Back, to name a few, and a message that warned of having “vampire faith”. We don’t live in a bubble and in a city like Detroit it would be ridiculous to pretend that we don’t know we are of difference races, ethnicities, income levels and social status. But you know, we really don’t see each other by color unless it’s purple. You rarely hear someone describing another by saying “you know, the white girl…” or “he’s a black guy” unless a last resort.
How’s that for a quick synopsis of my church?! Now back to Friday night. A nice chunk of the main sanctuary was reserved seating for Pastor’s family, clergy etc., and there were no empty seats. The balcony was full with only seats for the Praise and Worship team available and they were in full effect that night stretched across the whole choir stand. Pastor Ben had already told us it would be a formal ceremony, but of course it would be done DWO style. The excitement in the room was on everyone’s face as the Prayer Engine was on duty at the altar. Out of towners who came back to witness the promotion were reuniting with family. Pastor Matt and Minister Johnnie were syncing up all the last minute details and you could see the anticipation on them as well. And when the first chord was struck – it began.
Although we had Praise and Worship in our seats (not at the altar), it was still as exciting as ever…we just rocked shoulder to shoulder! Minister Deborah Plummer called the ceremony to order and the congregation (including those in the overflow room) hushed. Minister LaShun Franklin became ‘mistress of ceremony’ introducing Bishop and Lady Hilliard, the Confirming Council, and the processional. Finally, she announced the entrance of our Pastors – our Bishop Elect and our beloved and lovely co-pastor. We were all standing, waiting; where is he? – what is he doing?
Then I remembered his suggestion that we take it all in, that we breathe through the moment and I knew he was standing there doing just that. I knew he was holding his wife’s hand, exhaling memories of the prophecy by his first spiritual father that this day would come. And he drank in the room, he felt the energy of the room and he thought of Jack Wallace who fathered him and created legacy. And he’ll probably always remember the first face he saw as he looked around. He probably thought of his Mom and Dad, wishing they could’ve been there. He probably thought about all that Bishop Wallace went through to establish this body and how Mama Gael supported her husband’s vision and her ‘sons’ succession. I wonder if he thought about a few short months ago he lay nearly debilitated in a hospital bed with doctors convinced that he would never again preach a message. I imagine he squooze Pastor Charisse’s hand gently “Baby here we go!” I’m pretty sure he probably said “Father I thank you for the power of your word…”
There were more than quite a few teary eyes in the room as they entered victoriously, with pride, excitement, expectation and humility. Now, that’s just what I saw, I suppose one day the tale will be told of exactly what they experienced in that moment. But we experienced a very special ceremony where a lot of very special words were spoken and when they were all done the Bishops appointments were presented. Then a very special hand-washing ceremony preceded the pouring of oil upon him. When that oil began to roll down him I think the whole room swayed or swooned. At least we did in the section where I sat; oh, we felt the oil rolling down his garments! Such very special moments occurred that will never be forgotten. I’ll never forget him kneeling in complete submission to the moment. I’ll never forget him standing, spiritually drunk, swaying in the power of the Spirit of God – Bishop Benjamin A. Gibert! I’ll never forget this new beginning…
It is customary, no, it is Biblical to raise a “Levitical offering” to establish the office of the Bishop. By the time the people who were giving five hundred dollars or more were done over one hundred fifty thousand dollars had been raised. Then the rest of the congregation gave. No one begged for one dollar! Bishop Hilliard only said “Hear God!”
When “The Bishop” (our Bishop) took the mic we were SO full. He was too as he honored those who so strongly impacted his life and poured into him. But he had jokes “give me a thirty minute clock!” (In DWOspeak that’s code word for 1 hour, 10 minutes.) His remarks were so heartfelt; so transparent, so Bishop Ben.
It was a great night. And we will never be the same!
It was no wonder we were excited; we’d gotten a history lesson; an explanation of the Promotion of the Faithful ceremony and a chance to witness a prophecy being manifested; not to mention experiencing a pride in our holy man of God who was being promoted. Afterall, he’d made it clear that because we were all connected, we were all going into another dimension together. Had we not ‘followed’ he would have had no one to ‘lead’. So here’s the deal, the elders of our church submitted a letter to Pastor Ben’s spiritual father, Bishop I.V. Hilliard requesting the process begin to confirm him as a Bishop. The letter was read in church one Sunday as was Bishop Hilliard’s affirmative response. It was on from there.
For the record, our Pastor has been shepherding other pastors as well as our DWO family. Destiny Outreach Ministerial Alliance (DOMA) was established to provide that covering and the Ministerial Development Institute (MDI) was born to provide “minister in training” experiences for those interested. Men of Valor (MOV), Women of Virtue (WOV), Prayer Engine are excellent discipleship opportunities for our family at large and there are NUMEROUS ‘arms’ in the church for all to serve in. If you are a DWOite then you understand the 7 Distinctives that are our mission and you know that we pray for Souls, Members, Manifestations, Resources and Destiny Intersections. We have a food bank to serve those who need it, ministries for children at every age, several yearly outreaches, health and wellness seminars/programs – I mean Detroit World Outreach is a great place to belong!
Our Pastor has taught us that Praise is how we enter His house and Worship is how we engage the Holy Spirit to touch us each and every time we come together; unity is critical. If you were to poll the house I dare say you’d get a different list of favorite Pastor Ben messages. Ok, so my short list – just off the top of my head – includes Never Alone, Order of the Uncommon, God’s Kingdom First Priority, Body, Spirit, Soul; Never Going Back, to name a few, and a message that warned of having “vampire faith”. We don’t live in a bubble and in a city like Detroit it would be ridiculous to pretend that we don’t know we are of difference races, ethnicities, income levels and social status. But you know, we really don’t see each other by color unless it’s purple. You rarely hear someone describing another by saying “you know, the white girl…” or “he’s a black guy” unless a last resort.
How’s that for a quick synopsis of my church?! Now back to Friday night. A nice chunk of the main sanctuary was reserved seating for Pastor’s family, clergy etc., and there were no empty seats. The balcony was full with only seats for the Praise and Worship team available and they were in full effect that night stretched across the whole choir stand. Pastor Ben had already told us it would be a formal ceremony, but of course it would be done DWO style. The excitement in the room was on everyone’s face as the Prayer Engine was on duty at the altar. Out of towners who came back to witness the promotion were reuniting with family. Pastor Matt and Minister Johnnie were syncing up all the last minute details and you could see the anticipation on them as well. And when the first chord was struck – it began.
Although we had Praise and Worship in our seats (not at the altar), it was still as exciting as ever…we just rocked shoulder to shoulder! Minister Deborah Plummer called the ceremony to order and the congregation (including those in the overflow room) hushed. Minister LaShun Franklin became ‘mistress of ceremony’ introducing Bishop and Lady Hilliard, the Confirming Council, and the processional. Finally, she announced the entrance of our Pastors – our Bishop Elect and our beloved and lovely co-pastor. We were all standing, waiting; where is he? – what is he doing?
Then I remembered his suggestion that we take it all in, that we breathe through the moment and I knew he was standing there doing just that. I knew he was holding his wife’s hand, exhaling memories of the prophecy by his first spiritual father that this day would come. And he drank in the room, he felt the energy of the room and he thought of Jack Wallace who fathered him and created legacy. And he’ll probably always remember the first face he saw as he looked around. He probably thought of his Mom and Dad, wishing they could’ve been there. He probably thought about all that Bishop Wallace went through to establish this body and how Mama Gael supported her husband’s vision and her ‘sons’ succession. I wonder if he thought about a few short months ago he lay nearly debilitated in a hospital bed with doctors convinced that he would never again preach a message. I imagine he squooze Pastor Charisse’s hand gently “Baby here we go!” I’m pretty sure he probably said “Father I thank you for the power of your word…”
There were more than quite a few teary eyes in the room as they entered victoriously, with pride, excitement, expectation and humility. Now, that’s just what I saw, I suppose one day the tale will be told of exactly what they experienced in that moment. But we experienced a very special ceremony where a lot of very special words were spoken and when they were all done the Bishops appointments were presented. Then a very special hand-washing ceremony preceded the pouring of oil upon him. When that oil began to roll down him I think the whole room swayed or swooned. At least we did in the section where I sat; oh, we felt the oil rolling down his garments! Such very special moments occurred that will never be forgotten. I’ll never forget him kneeling in complete submission to the moment. I’ll never forget him standing, spiritually drunk, swaying in the power of the Spirit of God – Bishop Benjamin A. Gibert! I’ll never forget this new beginning…
It is customary, no, it is Biblical to raise a “Levitical offering” to establish the office of the Bishop. By the time the people who were giving five hundred dollars or more were done over one hundred fifty thousand dollars had been raised. Then the rest of the congregation gave. No one begged for one dollar! Bishop Hilliard only said “Hear God!”
When “The Bishop” (our Bishop) took the mic we were SO full. He was too as he honored those who so strongly impacted his life and poured into him. But he had jokes “give me a thirty minute clock!” (In DWOspeak that’s code word for 1 hour, 10 minutes.) His remarks were so heartfelt; so transparent, so Bishop Ben.
It was a great night. And we will never be the same!
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Case Closed!!!
Well All, on Wednesday September 8, 2010 I had a surgical procedure to remove the port once inserted in my shoulder area to facilitate administering chemotherapy! That means the CASE IS CLOSED!!!
What a tumultuous season in my life! Keep in mind that tumultuous means “overwhelming turbulence or upheaval”. OMG, does overwhelming even begin to describe it? And “upheaval” ~ seriously? Let me show you what I mean, now I’m not bragging but I’m showing you the magnificence of my God, our God. Since April 2009 I’ve been “upheaved” by the following overwhelming turbulent activities:
• Cancer pervaded our family as my youngest brother battled it
• Cancer attacked me; and btw, there was no history of cancer in my family ~ AND THERE IS NO HISTORY OF IT NOW ~ In Jesus Name!
• I spent a wonderful 4th of July 2009 in Martha’s Vineyard with my sister-in-law, her kids and my extended family…my youngest brother was preaching one of his last messages at Gateway Church and could not attend
• I was asked by a beautiful family to become God-mother to their 3 children – God bless them
• My youngest brother transitioned to be with Jesus
• I engaged a holistic doctor to help me understand my body and how to “help chemotherapy kill cancer cells” and not take me down
• God blessed me to buy a beautiful condo
• I had chemo, lumpectomy and radiation
• I lost 36 lbs – ON PURPOSE – and am working on losing 30 more
• A speeding ticket I got while on chemo, that was costing me $900 in associated fees got overturned when I wrote the judge a letter of explanation
• I spoke at a women’s conference at my brother/sister-in-law’s church
• I completed “Leadership Acclimation”, “Bible Overview”, “How to Study the Bible” and “Faith Concepts” at DWO while going through chemotherapy
• I got a new car
• I wrote 3 songs ~ Your Great Love – a love song to my heavenly Father; His Word is True – a song inspired by my Bishop’s testimony as prophecy was being manifested and Abide – a song He gave me while on the radiation table
• I began a publishing company (stay tuned, more coming!)
• Discovered that I really liked having very little hair (after chemo caused it to fall out) – I would NEVER have cut off my hair but I sure enjoy it short like this!
• During cancer journey God spoke several Words to me that changed my life and my faith:
o “Your faith has made you whole!” (while confessing healing)
o “Read Zephaniah 3:14-20” (while asking what do I say to my
head when I’m believing for healing but I can still feel the lump –
especially 3:20)
o “You’re not going to do chemo!” (right before my 1st
treatment…and I never got sick…I didn’t ‘do’ chemo)
o “Submit to Jeremiah 29:11 and Ephesians 3:20” (He has
plans for me that are exceeding abundantly above what I could ask or
think!)
o “You said you wanted me to make it clear!” (when I was
refusing to do radiation, telling God “If you want me to do it you
need to make it so clear because I don’t want to do it but I DO want
to do what you say.” He began changing my mind in spite of my
obstinance which caused me to ask “God how are you gonna change my
mind in spite of myself?”
Then Bishop Elect Ben confirmed it when in Faith Concepts he
talked of Hezekiah and how God answered his prayer for more
time but did not miraculously heal him – “but gave him the
prescription for healing”
o “Don’t you know you are my temple?” (as I sat worriedly in
the wait - room to get nuked)
I wanted to share this with you because I know you have prayed for me and with me. AND because my holistic doctor helped me learn very important lessons on health. But even before then U-Count, a healthy living program @ church, had me primed. If we become good stewards of our body, we are less likely to succumb to these attacks, let’s face it, they’re not always attacks. They’ve been telling us for years to stop smoking, lose weight, go walking (exercise), stop eating fried and processed foods – eat healthy, fruits and vegetables especially, drink enough water, eliminate stress, get enough sleep so your immune system can repair and fight those nasty intruding abnormalities like cancer cells! God does not want us on the battlefield, in the boardroom, in the marketplace, in ministry with bodies that are weak and disease infested. Sorry y’all, I’m getting up on the soapbox aren’t I? Not trying to beat you up but you know what? Doing these things will even help you hear God better; so put Him first. He will fight your battles – He already did when His Son died on the cross!
So, the case of cancer is CLOSED!!! To God be the glory for He promised it in His Word. If it’s one thing I learned for sure – you cannot allow anything to challenge your faith! Your weapons (Ephesians 6) are all based on faith in Him who is able to keep you from falling! If you, or someone you know is in need of healing please let me know and I will add them to my prayer journal and be in agreement with you for fixed, full and whole healing IJN Amen!
Oh, and just in case you haven't done it yet, take time to add up the blessings in your life! When you think about it...he does so much more for us than we give Him thanks for. Count your blessings and acknowledge that we serve an awesome and wonderful God. It's not cliche, when praises go up - blessings come down!
What a tumultuous season in my life! Keep in mind that tumultuous means “overwhelming turbulence or upheaval”. OMG, does overwhelming even begin to describe it? And “upheaval” ~ seriously? Let me show you what I mean, now I’m not bragging but I’m showing you the magnificence of my God, our God. Since April 2009 I’ve been “upheaved” by the following overwhelming turbulent activities:
• Cancer pervaded our family as my youngest brother battled it
• Cancer attacked me; and btw, there was no history of cancer in my family ~ AND THERE IS NO HISTORY OF IT NOW ~ In Jesus Name!
• I spent a wonderful 4th of July 2009 in Martha’s Vineyard with my sister-in-law, her kids and my extended family…my youngest brother was preaching one of his last messages at Gateway Church and could not attend
• I was asked by a beautiful family to become God-mother to their 3 children – God bless them
• My youngest brother transitioned to be with Jesus
• I engaged a holistic doctor to help me understand my body and how to “help chemotherapy kill cancer cells” and not take me down
• God blessed me to buy a beautiful condo
• I had chemo, lumpectomy and radiation
• I lost 36 lbs – ON PURPOSE – and am working on losing 30 more
• A speeding ticket I got while on chemo, that was costing me $900 in associated fees got overturned when I wrote the judge a letter of explanation
• I spoke at a women’s conference at my brother/sister-in-law’s church
• I completed “Leadership Acclimation”, “Bible Overview”, “How to Study the Bible” and “Faith Concepts” at DWO while going through chemotherapy
• I got a new car
• I wrote 3 songs ~ Your Great Love – a love song to my heavenly Father; His Word is True – a song inspired by my Bishop’s testimony as prophecy was being manifested and Abide – a song He gave me while on the radiation table
• I began a publishing company (stay tuned, more coming!)
• Discovered that I really liked having very little hair (after chemo caused it to fall out) – I would NEVER have cut off my hair but I sure enjoy it short like this!
• During cancer journey God spoke several Words to me that changed my life and my faith:
o “Your faith has made you whole!” (while confessing healing)
o “Read Zephaniah 3:14-20” (while asking what do I say to my
head when I’m believing for healing but I can still feel the lump –
especially 3:20)
o “You’re not going to do chemo!” (right before my 1st
treatment…and I never got sick…I didn’t ‘do’ chemo)
o “Submit to Jeremiah 29:11 and Ephesians 3:20” (He has
plans for me that are exceeding abundantly above what I could ask or
think!)
o “You said you wanted me to make it clear!” (when I was
refusing to do radiation, telling God “If you want me to do it you
need to make it so clear because I don’t want to do it but I DO want
to do what you say.” He began changing my mind in spite of my
obstinance which caused me to ask “God how are you gonna change my
mind in spite of myself?”
Then Bishop Elect Ben confirmed it when in Faith Concepts he
talked of Hezekiah and how God answered his prayer for more
time but did not miraculously heal him – “but gave him the
prescription for healing”
o “Don’t you know you are my temple?” (as I sat worriedly in
the wait - room to get nuked)
I wanted to share this with you because I know you have prayed for me and with me. AND because my holistic doctor helped me learn very important lessons on health. But even before then U-Count, a healthy living program @ church, had me primed. If we become good stewards of our body, we are less likely to succumb to these attacks, let’s face it, they’re not always attacks. They’ve been telling us for years to stop smoking, lose weight, go walking (exercise), stop eating fried and processed foods – eat healthy, fruits and vegetables especially, drink enough water, eliminate stress, get enough sleep so your immune system can repair and fight those nasty intruding abnormalities like cancer cells! God does not want us on the battlefield, in the boardroom, in the marketplace, in ministry with bodies that are weak and disease infested. Sorry y’all, I’m getting up on the soapbox aren’t I? Not trying to beat you up but you know what? Doing these things will even help you hear God better; so put Him first. He will fight your battles – He already did when His Son died on the cross!
So, the case of cancer is CLOSED!!! To God be the glory for He promised it in His Word. If it’s one thing I learned for sure – you cannot allow anything to challenge your faith! Your weapons (Ephesians 6) are all based on faith in Him who is able to keep you from falling! If you, or someone you know is in need of healing please let me know and I will add them to my prayer journal and be in agreement with you for fixed, full and whole healing IJN Amen!
Oh, and just in case you haven't done it yet, take time to add up the blessings in your life! When you think about it...he does so much more for us than we give Him thanks for. Count your blessings and acknowledge that we serve an awesome and wonderful God. It's not cliche, when praises go up - blessings come down!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
A Year Ago Today
I was laying on the floor trying to catch a cool breeze in the hot August evening. I was thinking about my family – Roosevelt in a Mexican hospital being treated for cancer issues. Eileen and the kids were there as were Paul and Jeff. Three of my four brothers in prayer and in love – in Mexico. Jeff interrupted my little reverie to tell me “He’s gone, but it ain’t over yet!” Somewhere inside I knew it…we’d spent so much time fasting and praying and believing that like many of us – we don’t take the cue from the Father.
As I lay there I rolled over on my face and cried out to God “God, I know he’s up there with you now so can you kick him out? Can you send him back? He has children who need him and he’s my baby brother…” Typical 1st born syndrome, as if this is in any way a reflection of me! Well, I could neither control it nor influence it as I waited – in the silence, God was silent. And I knew.
I knew that some things would go unsaid, that some things would be unfinished. I knew he wouldn’t get to see the condo God blessed me with and he so desperately wanted me to buy. I knew Eileen and the kids would miss him terribly – us too. I knew he wouldn’t be in pain anymore. I knew he had stepped into heaven and wouldn’t want to come back. In that moment I knew what heaven must be like because I knew how much Roosevelt loved being a father to Trinity and Israel and a husband and a brother and an evangelist and a mentor to young people. I’d been with him when he visited a church for the first time in 4 or 5 years and the kids so fondly remembered him because he’d done a youth camp there. I knew that him being in the presence of the Father meant that I would see him no more on earth. How encouraging that was; to get a glimpse of heaven through the eyes of my absent baby brother.
So a year later, no longer broken hearted I write in memoriam to the baby boy. By the way, Eileen has provided an update/tribute on YouTube , beautifully done. I’m so proud of her, she’s been out on the road a bit, sharing the good news of the gospel, the kids have gone with her too, and they’ve shared publicly! Praise God! They’re working on the legacy and we’re even going to be working on a project together. I’m very excited about that! Eileen has been asked to do a missions trip to Malawi, Africa this fall…the same one Roosevelt did around this time two years ago. NuNation is thriving and on July 18, 2010 graduated their very first class! God has been so very good to them.
And He has been an amazing God to me! Last year this time I knew I would have to deal with breast cancer – but I decided not to. I decided to believe the word of the Lord, accept my healing and while waiting for the manifestation of it begin caring for my temple as if the Holy Ghost dwells therein. My cancer experience was wonderful because I was never sick; just a little queasy every once in a while. So while ‘in treatment’ I, lost my hair & got a wonderful near bald look that I really love and it looks good on me too (so I’ve been told!). I bought a beautiful condo – SUPERNATURALLY!!! Trust me when I say “God did it!” One of the side effects of chemo is ‘chemo brain’ – well, chemo brain allowed me to slow down and hear God. I even learned to let God finish His sentence and have gotten so much revelation because of it. I’ve written 4 songs, 2 of them during this cancer journey. I’ve got 2 more books to write. I’m starting a publishing company called Manifold Grace Publishing House. I’m back to work now, just got a new car, have lost 35 pounds (have 30 more to lose) and ♫ I FEEL GOOD, like a child of God should♫ A lot can happen in a year.
Rho has often said he learned a lot from me, well, once upon a time he was my baby – he and Jeff. And I learned a lot from Rho. I learned that trusting God is the only way, there is no stronger force in my life than my faith. We are already creatures of love – God is love and we are created in His image, but faith; faith allows grace to propel you and cover you and rescue you and protect you and save you. Faith gives you wings as the stronger yours is the higher you soar, the more you can see miracles, the clearer your destiny path becomes. To quote Rho “there will always be fear and there is always faith ~ choose faith, God has not given us the spirit of fear!” In honor of my brother I encourage you to have faith! Have faith to know God as a Father, a Healer, a Miracle Worker, the Ultimate Banker, the Prince of Peace, the Comforter, the Answer to every prayer, the Restorer, the Problem Solver! Have faith to live the life God has for you, it’s so much better than what you can ask or think.
Finally, thank all of you who have remembered Rho, you should know that we appreciate your thoughts and your prayers. You can check out Eileen's website @ http://pthirtyone.com/
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Exciting Updates!
Greetings!
About a month or so ago my cousin Paulette called me because I had not sent out an update about my health. She was like “oh, you don’t send out the emails anymore?” Well, a month later, I’m just getting to send the update – but before I do, I’ve got to share an awesome testimony with you. It’s part of what’s kept me so busy. Now forgive me if bore you with all the details, but they demonstrate just how providential God is. This entire journey is like God took my face in His hands to say “don’t you know that I have plans for you, (Jer 29:11) that I am in control! (Col 1:15-17)”
August 2009 – realizing that my lease was about to expire EOM I’m talking to God, “God, I can’t afford that lake house I want and it’s time to get out of this apartment – what should I do?” The very next Sunday Pastor Ben is preaching a post victuals message about the value of the blade (Mark 4:26-28 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear) and had Reggie stand as illustration of the man who wants the house on the hill but can’t afford it. Reggie gets the opportunity to buy a house he can afford and decides to buy it instead of saying “that’s not what I’m believing God to do”. Then – uh, I kinda stopped listening (just kidding) – I had my answer.
On Monday I went online and instead of starting the search at 500K (I dream in Technicolor) I asked God “OK, what price do I start at?” 50K is what came to mind. I put it in and the very 1st entry was the condo I NOW LIVE IN (see pictures above). Well, it was gorgeous in the picture so I got in my car and did a drive-by. Even better! I asked God who should I get to show it to me, He said call the lady. On Thursday I called the listing agent to see the house on Friday and when she finally called me back she explained there was an offer pending and she was out of town but would still show it to me on Monday when she got back. For some reason I said yes. She called me back the next day and told me the lady with the offer had just gotten laid off and had to withdraw her offer. She has to re-list the property but will do it after she shows me the house. When I saw it I said “yes, I want it what’s next?” She knew a banker – I was talking to God “who should I get financing with?” He said stick with the lady. Her banker got an approval letter right away, she talked with the owner who said he would accept my offer and on Tuesday – a week and a day after I first went online – the deal was inked and we just had to wait for the sellers bank to approve the deal. It was a short sale and the sellers bank has no priority for these since they’re going to take a hit…it took four months.
In the meantime –
• I texted my baby brother Roosevelt, he had been threatening to come and find me a condo. He was very excited when I told him and simply texted back “Get It!” Before the week was out he had passed away, complications from surgeries to get rid of colon cancer.
• In November I began my 1st chemo treatment
• I began cleaning up my credit report…removing errors, answering. And do you know that every single thing I thought was an obstacle, was an obstacle, in my mind. Even a bankruptcy! God even asked me once, rather indignantly I thought “are you really worried about that?”
• I learned lessons about expectations, character, how to listen and really trust God – life changing lessons
• Disability check was late, dwo-ites walked up to me and gave me money, they had no idea what I was going through, even my sister-in-law blessed me out of the blue
December 2009 – my newfound banker and real estate agent worked really hard to close this case in 2009 and on December 29, I closed on this beautiful condo. It’s 1600 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath, finished media room in basement townhouse with a covered 2 space carport. It took 3 days to move, even though I gave away a bunch of stuff, threw away a bunch of stuff but I’m finally all moved in. . . and every morning when I wake and look out the window at the pine trees covered with snow I remember He said “You live in a green brook” and I thank my heavenly Father for setting me in a beautiful place. . . a green brook. And I remember that the lover of my soul is my Jehovah Jireh. . .go figure, in the midst of chemo treatments I buy a condo AND move.
Thanks for listening to my testimony and remember He will do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think! (Eph 3:20) And my new address is:
August 2009 – realizing that my lease was about to expire EOM I’m talking to God, “God, I can’t afford that lake house I want and it’s time to get out of this apartment – what should I do?” The very next Sunday Pastor Ben is preaching a post victuals message about the value of the blade (Mark 4:26-28 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear) and had Reggie stand as illustration of the man who wants the house on the hill but can’t afford it. Reggie gets the opportunity to buy a house he can afford and decides to buy it instead of saying “that’s not what I’m believing God to do”. Then – uh, I kinda stopped listening (just kidding) – I had my answer.
On Monday I went online and instead of starting the search at 500K (I dream in Technicolor) I asked God “OK, what price do I start at?” 50K is what came to mind. I put it in and the very 1st entry was the condo I NOW LIVE IN (see pictures above). Well, it was gorgeous in the picture so I got in my car and did a drive-by. Even better! I asked God who should I get to show it to me, He said call the lady. On Thursday I called the listing agent to see the house on Friday and when she finally called me back she explained there was an offer pending and she was out of town but would still show it to me on Monday when she got back. For some reason I said yes. She called me back the next day and told me the lady with the offer had just gotten laid off and had to withdraw her offer. She has to re-list the property but will do it after she shows me the house. When I saw it I said “yes, I want it what’s next?” She knew a banker – I was talking to God “who should I get financing with?” He said stick with the lady. Her banker got an approval letter right away, she talked with the owner who said he would accept my offer and on Tuesday – a week and a day after I first went online – the deal was inked and we just had to wait for the sellers bank to approve the deal. It was a short sale and the sellers bank has no priority for these since they’re going to take a hit…it took four months.
In the meantime –
• I texted my baby brother Roosevelt, he had been threatening to come and find me a condo. He was very excited when I told him and simply texted back “Get It!” Before the week was out he had passed away, complications from surgeries to get rid of colon cancer.
• In November I began my 1st chemo treatment
• I began cleaning up my credit report…removing errors, answering. And do you know that every single thing I thought was an obstacle, was an obstacle, in my mind. Even a bankruptcy! God even asked me once, rather indignantly I thought “are you really worried about that?”
• I learned lessons about expectations, character, how to listen and really trust God – life changing lessons
• Disability check was late, dwo-ites walked up to me and gave me money, they had no idea what I was going through, even my sister-in-law blessed me out of the blue
December 2009 – my newfound banker and real estate agent worked really hard to close this case in 2009 and on December 29, I closed on this beautiful condo. It’s 1600 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath, finished media room in basement townhouse with a covered 2 space carport. It took 3 days to move, even though I gave away a bunch of stuff, threw away a bunch of stuff but I’m finally all moved in. . . and every morning when I wake and look out the window at the pine trees covered with snow I remember He said “You live in a green brook” and I thank my heavenly Father for setting me in a beautiful place. . . a green brook. And I remember that the lover of my soul is my Jehovah Jireh. . .go figure, in the midst of chemo treatments I buy a condo AND move.
Thanks for listening to my testimony and remember He will do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think! (Eph 3:20) And my new address is:
25163 Greenbrooke Dr.
Southfield, 48033
Now, I had my last chemo treatment almost 2 weeks ago. My oncologist was very excited at how well I did with chemo and how well chemo did dissolving the tumor but there is still a tumor. Surgery to remove it is scheduled for March 17. After recovering from surgery, they plan radiation and I really don’t want to get nuked, but trust me, I’m listening to God because if that’s how He will manifest healing then I know radiation can’t hurt me! Can you believe I went through chemo treatment from November thru February without getting sick or catching a cold! Well, last week it caught up to me! But, my God is so good! My immune system is doing a pretty good job of fighting those nasty germs. Keep praying! Pray for wisdom and excellent precision for the doctors and all those who will be involved in this next phase of my treatment. Pray for a supernatural move of God on my behalf and pray that I continue to hear God directing my way with no distraction. As you know I’ve already received the healing and I’m just walking out the steps, knowing that manifestation rests in the hands of the Great Physician! Thanks for your love and your prayers.
Love,
Darlene
Darlene
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