6/15/20
Friends for Life,
“It’s nice to be important but it is more important to be nice.” I’ve heard this for so many years. It really means something when you apply it and recognize what it really means. I want to pause and take the time to say how much I appreciate those who were cooperative with our Pastor’s Aid Ministry and took the time to record a video and send it in. I shared with the two preachers that were scheduled for Pastor’s Aid Day that we would have to do something else, and they understood 100%. Sis. Richelle Prince asked for permission to send a notification or two out and I shared with her that she could. Let me be honest, every Pastor needs a Pastors Aid Director like Sis. Richelle Prince. I thank God for her and her willingness to assist her pastor where needed. This is a task that she handles with grace, dignity, and dedication. My wife and sons, who are part of me thank the Director and the Pastor’s Aid Ministry for the kind words, encouraging text, check in phone calls, and monetary blessings that you shared with us on last Sunday. I pray that The Lord will bless each and every one of you really good!
We are looking forward to another high Sunday next week for Father’s Day! We want to honor all of our fathers on that day. It is a wonderful thing to be a leader, and every father should be according to the Word of God. Adam was to lead and direct. It’s God’s plan. Our plan is to have a unique “Friendship-Texas Boil with a Louisiana Twist.” Well, you might not know what that means right now, but come on Sunday and you will be able to “taste and see!”
I also ask each one of you to be present on this Sunday. There will be a special program after our morning worship. If you are not able to attend, I understand but hopefully you will watch on our YouTube Channel or Facebook Page. I’d like for everyone to look for a “bell icon” on both pages and make sure that you have enabled YouTube and Facebook to notify you when we go live. That way, you will know each time your church is streaming. If you need assistance, please let us know and we will assist you. We will start presenting the Sunday School lessons soon online, so we want you to be part of it and learn as much as possible. Our Prayer Calls have continued to be a blessed experience. With a little singing, praying, bible lessons, and announcements. We have been able to remain connected and talking to God together as fellow brothers and sisters. We will keep the call in number for each week. It’s a free call 346.248.7799 then type in the Meeting ID of 837.6216. No participant ID. If you are having any issues, please call the church office and we will help you.
We continue to keep each other lifted. We keep those who are grieving and sick on our minds. Be an intercessor every day. I believe that many of us have grown spiritually stronger since March of this year. Let’s continue to get closer to God. This is not a time to be doubtful or to stray away. This is a time to be a faithful follower to His will and to His way. I want to strongly urge you to remain prayerful regarding your decisions. Keep a mask covering your mouth and nose. If others desire to talk with you, it’s ok to request them to remain six feet away. I have done so in public. It’s not the norm, but it is necessary right now. Don’t be afraid to speak up. That’s what has helped us regain the attention of the world regarding the killing of black people. I like many say, enough is enough.
Our community was at a point where it was almost “just accepted” that another black was killed or beaten. This is the time for things to change. It’s naive to think that the change will happen overnight. It’s also immature to think that the answer is solely in police reform. That’s a start but it is not the answer. Brothers and sisters, it’s a systematic problem. It may take generations to see the outcome of the complete change. Let’s be part of it. We may not see the completion of it in our lifetime but at least we can do what David did for his son named Solomon. Search the scriptures and you will find a wonderful temple erected for God. David provided the materials needed to make the temple a success endeavor. It didn’t have David’s name attached to it, but without him assisting, it may have not been completed or done so with such class and dignity. Please hear me clear, I am not asking you to go out and participate in the protest around the globe. I don’t think that’s wise considering we are in a pandemic unless you are able to exercise the “distancing space” needed. I am asking you to vote, complete the census, encourage more blacks to apply to the police department, encourage our young people to understand the law of the land, and most importantly look to the Author and Finisher of our Faith! As I shared on last Sunday, he is the one that will open the door that no man can shut!
