"Old Church" Ladies Are Tearing Down the Walls of Old School Religion
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Do you shudder at the mention of a church lady who used to give you that "look" if you were talking too much during church?
Do you have vivid memories of being forced to sit for hours during a boring Sunday School class or a service that ran into late hours of the night?
Do you have memories of an old church lady that darkens your mood just by the mention of their name?
If you know what I mean, you know why the reputation of church ladies was battered; and you may be one of those wounded saints who have left the church and never plan on going back!
Join me on a journey that chronicles the near extinction of "Old Church" Ladies everywhere,
and find out why you might not want to completely give up on church... and transformed "old church" ladies like me!
Do you have vivid memories of being forced to sit for hours during a boring Sunday School class or a service that ran into late hours of the night?
Do you have memories of an old church lady that darkens your mood just by the mention of their name?
If you know what I mean, you know why the reputation of church ladies was battered; and you may be one of those wounded saints who have left the church and never plan on going back!
Join me on a journey that chronicles the near extinction of "Old Church" Ladies everywhere,
and find out why you might not want to completely give up on church... and transformed "old church" ladies like me!
"Old Church" Ladies Defined
She's the matriarch of familial religious tenets.
She's the gal who "is subject to her own husband", and trains her children to follow in her footsteps.
She's the one who runs the home, and decides who, what, when, where and how her children will conduct themselves.
In an ideal situation, that is exactly what being "Mom" is all about. Creating a home environment that will nurture the entire family is one of the things that women do best!
The church ladies that we are discussing today are the ones whose children became disillusioned and bitter about "church" as they understood it.
The old church ladies that are on the brink of extinction are those whose offspring have vehemently declared:
"I got out of that church, and I am NEVER going back!"
She's the gal who "is subject to her own husband", and trains her children to follow in her footsteps.
She's the one who runs the home, and decides who, what, when, where and how her children will conduct themselves.
In an ideal situation, that is exactly what being "Mom" is all about. Creating a home environment that will nurture the entire family is one of the things that women do best!
The church ladies that we are discussing today are the ones whose children became disillusioned and bitter about "church" as they understood it.
The old church ladies that are on the brink of extinction are those whose offspring have vehemently declared:
"I got out of that church, and I am NEVER going back!"
Don't Throw the Baby Out With the Bath Water!
The events of childhood are forever embedded in the hearts and minds of children, but especially of those who were raised by dogmatic church ladies.
A young "old church" lady can create as much damage as her elder counterpart.
The memory of harsh, and undeserved scoldings may still lurk in your memory banks, and you can still describe those incidents in vivid detail!
Now, after many years of living in faulty and unfulfilling "religion", the true nature and construct of old church ladies is finally coming to light.
The generations of those who have been battered by the mis-guided actions of dogmatic tenets are finally beginning to recover.
The harshness of religion that was poured on the young and tender at heart nearly wiped out the true nature of the Christian faith.
But, there's good news ahead!
A young "old church" lady can create as much damage as her elder counterpart.
The memory of harsh, and undeserved scoldings may still lurk in your memory banks, and you can still describe those incidents in vivid detail!
Now, after many years of living in faulty and unfulfilling "religion", the true nature and construct of old church ladies is finally coming to light.
The generations of those who have been battered by the mis-guided actions of dogmatic tenets are finally beginning to recover.
The harshness of religion that was poured on the young and tender at heart nearly wiped out the true nature of the Christian faith.
But, there's good news ahead!
When Old Church Ladies Come Full Circle...
I have been known as a church lady for most of my life. I was born and raised in a traditional Pentecostal church, so I spent most of my life attending church services, preparing for church services, or talking about church services.
Now that I have a grown daughter, I have been catapulted into the role of the "old church" lady at our house.
NOT!
At least not in the traditional sense... I am older, and hopefully wiser; and I have no intention of living the rest of my life under a dark cloud of the harsh rules imposed by what's known in the church world as "Legalism."
I've already done my time as an "old church" lady!
There are too many "old church" ladies who are still living in sadness and depression because of the dogmatic church rules and regulations that were planted during their own childhood.
The sad thing is, those who are trapped in gloom and depression are stuck there due to a faulty belief system.
They truly believe that those hard and harsh rules are what's known as the "Full Gospel," and it's what they have to do to be pleasing to God!
I know, there are many "old church" men that are in the same boat; but my perspective on that will definitely be from the female perspective.
Irregardless, male or female... church just ain't what it used to be!
Now that I have a grown daughter, I have been catapulted into the role of the "old church" lady at our house.
NOT!
At least not in the traditional sense... I am older, and hopefully wiser; and I have no intention of living the rest of my life under a dark cloud of the harsh rules imposed by what's known in the church world as "Legalism."
I've already done my time as an "old church" lady!
There are too many "old church" ladies who are still living in sadness and depression because of the dogmatic church rules and regulations that were planted during their own childhood.
The sad thing is, those who are trapped in gloom and depression are stuck there due to a faulty belief system.
They truly believe that those hard and harsh rules are what's known as the "Full Gospel," and it's what they have to do to be pleasing to God!
I know, there are many "old church" men that are in the same boat; but my perspective on that will definitely be from the female perspective.
Irregardless, male or female... church just ain't what it used to be!
"Church"
:For the denomination, see Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Christian Church and church (Greek kyriakon, "thing belonging to the Lord"; also ekklesia (Latinized as ecclesia, "assembly") are used to denote both a Christian association of people and a place of worship. In the phenomenological sense there are many such associations of people that call themselves Christian churches. In the New Testament the term ???????? (church or assembly) is used for local communities and in a universal sense to mean all believers.McKim, Donald K. Westminster Dictionary of Theological Terms. Westminster John Knox Press, 1996
So That Leads Us to the Question.... Just What Is Church?
When most people hear the word "church", they often think of the building in their neighborhood where "Christians" gather to worship.
The word itself brings to mind the church experiences that one has encountered in life thus far.
For some, memories of church are filled with loving and happy memories of Youth Camps, Sunday School and Vacation Bible Schools...
While others will bristle, and often explode into a violent outpouring of bitterness, resentment; and in many cases; anger and hostility toward God himself!
In worst case scenarios, embittered souls have
dis-avowed their connection to God entirely.
Bitter religion has spoiled the spiritual appetite of those who once relished the milk and meat of God's Word.
The word itself brings to mind the church experiences that one has encountered in life thus far.
For some, memories of church are filled with loving and happy memories of Youth Camps, Sunday School and Vacation Bible Schools...
While others will bristle, and often explode into a violent outpouring of bitterness, resentment; and in many cases; anger and hostility toward God himself!
In worst case scenarios, embittered souls have
dis-avowed their connection to God entirely.
Bitter religion has spoiled the spiritual appetite of those who once relished the milk and meat of God's Word.
Church
Sociologists have proposed various classifications of religious movements. The most widely used classification in the sociology of religion is the church-sect typology. The typology states that churches, ecclesia, denominations, and sects form a continuum with decreasing influence on society. Sects are break-away groups and tend to be in tension with society. Cults and new religious movements fall outside this continuum and in contrast to aforementioned groups often have a novel teaching.
Cults and new religious movements have been classified on their attitude towards society and the level of involvement of their adherents.
__TOC__
It's All About Perspective
I love the way that Jesus introduced his gospel in the Sermon on the Mount.
He often used the terms:
"Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time,"
and
But I say unto you..."
He was beginning to prepare the hearts of the people for the coming changes that were going to happen once he was crucified.
He often used the terms:
"Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time,"
and
But I say unto you..."
He was beginning to prepare the hearts of the people for the coming changes that were going to happen once he was crucified.
The Metamorphosis of the Old Church Lady...
...Has Produced a New Breed of Church Ladies
Fascinating Caterpillars
Fascinating Caterpillars Animated Slideshow
Many odd and interesting caterpillars are shown in this video, as well as the eggs they come from, and the pupae they metamorphosize into. The music is "286 5th Solo" by TECHNICIAN. Much more video, photography and documentation is available at http://lepidoptera.jcmdi.com/index.html. The Hi-Res version of this video is available on DVD. Visit http://technician.jcmdi.com/lepdvd01/lepdvd01.html for details.
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The Impact of This Discovery
There is definitely a shift taking place in the church environment.
Organized religion has become a shadow of it's former self as disillusioned and disheartened members have fled the corridors of their childhood churches.
Women (and men) whose identity is founded in "church" as they knew it are no longer doing business as usual.
Restless hearts have left traditional churches by the droves, and are on the streets of our nation; seeking to bring the change to the world that they are so desperately seeking for their own lives.
The problem is...
Organized religion has become a shadow of it's former self as disillusioned and disheartened members have fled the corridors of their childhood churches.
Women (and men) whose identity is founded in "church" as they knew it are no longer doing business as usual.
Restless hearts have left traditional churches by the droves, and are on the streets of our nation; seeking to bring the change to the world that they are so desperately seeking for their own lives.
The problem is...
Building a New Spiritual Foundation is a Lengthy and Painstaking Process
Those who have left the church due to negative familial and environmental factors are like the caterpillar who has reached the transitional stages of the pupa and chrysalis.
They have gorged themselves on the spiritual food of their family tree, and have gone underground in order to process the new thoughts that challenge, and often defy their spiritual heritage.
The processing of old thought patterns is a delicate process, and the flight to freedom must be precisely timed for the successful emergence of the butterfly.
It takes a lot of work to build a new set of wings, and if not done properly, the butterfly will never be able to fly...
A tragedy for such a beautiful creature, and a great loss for the rest of the world.
They have gorged themselves on the spiritual food of their family tree, and have gone underground in order to process the new thoughts that challenge, and often defy their spiritual heritage.
The processing of old thought patterns is a delicate process, and the flight to freedom must be precisely timed for the successful emergence of the butterfly.
It takes a lot of work to build a new set of wings, and if not done properly, the butterfly will never be able to fly...
A tragedy for such a beautiful creature, and a great loss for the rest of the world.
Old Things Shall Pass Away...
The butterfly instinctively knows that there is a new life waiting on the outside of this brittle and unyielding sheath which holds them captive.
The hardened shell that holds them captive is the final stronghold that ties them to their life as it once was. That strong casing is ALSO the defense that protects the new life until it has reached the maturity that is required for the flight to freedom.
Like the strong bonds of the pupa prevents the butterfly's flight to freedom...
The faulty perceptions of a disillusioned church-goer
is a powerful catalyst for change, but is also an inadequate instructor when it comes to forging life on a new spiritual foundation.
Once the food that was served by the dogma of religion has been digested and dispelled, the morphing church lady begins to hunger for truth and beauty that has eluded her for so long.
The freshness and beauty of a new world beckons loudly...calling the soul to come up higher!
The hardened shell that holds them captive is the final stronghold that ties them to their life as it once was. That strong casing is ALSO the defense that protects the new life until it has reached the maturity that is required for the flight to freedom.
Like the strong bonds of the pupa prevents the butterfly's flight to freedom...
The faulty perceptions of a disillusioned church-goer
is a powerful catalyst for change, but is also an inadequate instructor when it comes to forging life on a new spiritual foundation.
Once the food that was served by the dogma of religion has been digested and dispelled, the morphing church lady begins to hunger for truth and beauty that has eluded her for so long.
The freshness and beauty of a new world beckons loudly...calling the soul to come up higher!
The Butterfly Has An Internal Blueprint...
So do we.
Our soul knows where our life is going, and is the instigator of our life's circumstances!
There's a verse in the Bible that brings this issue to full clarity. It's in the old testament, and has become the guiding light for my life goals, objectives and purposes.
This is the text in the King James Version:
"For I know the thoughts I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."
Jeremiah 29:11
The New King James Version says it this way:
"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."
Jeremiah 29:11
The Bible has a lot to say about hope...
Our soul knows where our life is going, and is the instigator of our life's circumstances!
There's a verse in the Bible that brings this issue to full clarity. It's in the old testament, and has become the guiding light for my life goals, objectives and purposes.
This is the text in the King James Version:
"For I know the thoughts I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."
Jeremiah 29:11
The New King James Version says it this way:
"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."
Jeremiah 29:11
The Bible has a lot to say about hope...
"Hope Deferred Maketh the Heart Sick...
Sickness, Illness or Disease
A disease or medical condition is
an abnormal condition of an organism that impairs bodily functions, associated with specific symptoms and signs.eMedicine/Stedman Medical Dictionary Lookup!WordNet Search - 3.0 It may be caused by external factors, such as infectious disease, or it may be caused by internal dysfunctions, such as autoimmune diseases.
In human beings, "disease" is often used more broadly to refer to any condition that causes pain, dysfunction, distress, social problems, and/or death to the person afflicted, or similar problems for those in contact with the person. In this broader sense, it sometimes includes injuries, disabilities, disorders, syndromes, infections, isolated symptoms, deviant behaviors, and atypical variations of structure and function, while in other contexts and for other purposes these may be considered distinguishable categories.
...But a Longing Fulfilled is a Tree of Life." Proverbs 13:12
Hope
Hope is a belief in a positive outcome related to events and circumstances in one's life. Hope is the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/hope hope. (n.d.). The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Retrieved March 18, 2008, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/hope
When used in a religious context, hope carries a connotation of being aware of what Christians see as spiritual truth; see Hope (virtue). In Christian theology, hope is one of the three theological virtues (faith, hope, and lovePreviously called charity; however, in modern English charity commonly means giving alms to the poor and needy, so the word love is more accurate.), which are spiritual gifts of God. In contrast to the above, it is not a physical emotion but a spiritual grace. Hope is distinct from positive thinking, which refers to a therapeutic or systematic process used in psychology for reversing pessimism. The term false hope refers to a hope based entirely around a fantasy or an extremely unlikely outcome.
Ye Olde Church Lady... aka God's Grace Notes
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God's Grace Notes for the Times of Our Lives Headquarters
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"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans for hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Our Times Are In HIS Hands...
There is a time and season for everything. Life is filled with times of laugher, dancing, weeping, mourning, living and dying.
We have many, many choices in life. We also have many choices about what to do with our lives.
But, there are some things that were completely out of our control.
Things like the color of our eyes and hair, our physical appearance...
(although we have many modern conveniences that can help modify those realities!)
We don't choose our gender, our family of birth, or our time in history. Our parents, siblings and social status are appointed to us by the divine dictates of God.
These realities are immutable... we simply arrive on the scene of history when God decides that the world is ready for us...
The good plan that God has in mind for us often has a greater "expected end" than we can imagine for ourselves!
We have many, many choices in life. We also have many choices about what to do with our lives.
But, there are some things that were completely out of our control.
Things like the color of our eyes and hair, our physical appearance...
(although we have many modern conveniences that can help modify those realities!)
We don't choose our gender, our family of birth, or our time in history. Our parents, siblings and social status are appointed to us by the divine dictates of God.
These realities are immutable... we simply arrive on the scene of history when God decides that the world is ready for us...
The good plan that God has in mind for us often has a greater "expected end" than we can imagine for ourselves!
Choose You This Day Whom You Will Serve
"...choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood,
or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
Joshua 24:15
or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
Joshua 24:15
Blessing or Cursing, Life or Death... It's a Matter of Choice
The book of Deuteronomy contains the law that God laid down for the people that he intended to be his chosen people.
The children of Abraham happened to be the family that God chose to teach about how to live in His ways of holiness.
It was then their task to enforce the laws of God within their own nation, thereby becoming an example and conduit to bless the rest of the world.
The children of Abraham happened to be the family that God chose to teach about how to live in His ways of holiness.
It was then their task to enforce the laws of God within their own nation, thereby becoming an example and conduit to bless the rest of the world.
God Speaks...
1 Hear now, O Israel, the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your fathers, is giving you.
2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you.
3 You saw with your own eyes what the Lord did at Baal Peor. The Lord your God destroyed from among you everyone who followed the Baal of Peor,
4 but all of you who held fast to the Lord your God are still alive today.
5 See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the Lord my God commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are entering to take possession of it.
6 Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people."
7 What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him?
8 And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?
9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Deuteronomy 4: 1-9
2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you.
3 You saw with your own eyes what the Lord did at Baal Peor. The Lord your God destroyed from among you everyone who followed the Baal of Peor,
4 but all of you who held fast to the Lord your God are still alive today.
5 See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the Lord my God commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are entering to take possession of it.
6 Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people."
7 What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him?
8 And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?
9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Deuteronomy 4: 1-9
The Trouble Begins With Parents Who Are Ignorant of the Laws of God
Our beautiful earth was corrupted when Eve gave forbidden fruit to Adam, and he received it.
Their disobedience led to a state of spiritual atrophy that has led to the decline of the human experience ever since...
The instruction to Adam and Eve was to be fruitful and multiply. There was no pain in their environment.
All of that beauty was interrupted by the response to a very subtle temptation. We've been on a journey of recovery since the day that Adam and Eve were dispelled from their garden home.
Their disobedience led to a state of spiritual atrophy that has led to the decline of the human experience ever since...
The instruction to Adam and Eve was to be fruitful and multiply. There was no pain in their environment.
All of that beauty was interrupted by the response to a very subtle temptation. We've been on a journey of recovery since the day that Adam and Eve were dispelled from their garden home.
Every Succeeding Generation Must Make the Same Choice...
Choose you this day whom you will serve.
To serve God? or not serve God...
It's a principle that demands the answer to the question:
What does it mean to "serve God?"
There are as many answers to that question as there are people and denominations, so how can people ever expect "The Church" to be of any true benefit to the world in which we live?
Denominations are often sharply divided by antagonism, resentment and disagreement between various church leaders.
When the definition of serving God is presented with such open hostility and animosity between church leaders; it's little wonder "the world" has fled the halls of our churches.
To serve God? or not serve God...
It's a principle that demands the answer to the question:
What does it mean to "serve God?"
There are as many answers to that question as there are people and denominations, so how can people ever expect "The Church" to be of any true benefit to the world in which we live?
Denominations are often sharply divided by antagonism, resentment and disagreement between various church leaders.
When the definition of serving God is presented with such open hostility and animosity between church leaders; it's little wonder "the world" has fled the halls of our churches.
When Good Intentions Are Overshadowed by Misguided Judgment
This falling away from organized religion has been in part; due to the repurcussions of the injuries created by "old church" ladies and "old church" men.
While our spiritual forefathers thought they were doing the right thing, they wreaked havoc on the young hearts and minds of their own children.
Again, I say... There's good news ahead!
While our spiritual forefathers thought they were doing the right thing, they wreaked havoc on the young hearts and minds of their own children.
Again, I say... There's good news ahead!
Old Church Ladies Are Coming Out of Our Shells... and We Have Something to Say!
The internet abounds with websites, blogs and online communities that are faith based and Christian focused.
Those are the signposts and soap boxes of the old church ladies and churchmen who have made an exciting discovery...
Vast multitudes have discovered that there is a church "out there"... in that place beyond the walls of traditional churches.
Hmmm.... rather like Jesus when he left the synagogue and began to go teach and preach.
It's that place beyond schedules and church bulletins...
It's in prison cells and hospitals, homeless shelters and mental wards. Those are the places where you will find this new breed of Christians.
It's a new church that has been shrouded in darkness.
Indeed, the "ministers" of this new church look very much like the community they've been called to serve!
Homeless, addicts, prostitutes, poverty-stricken... it's hard to tell that there is a priesthood hidden in the hearts of people who dwell in these dark places.
But, indeed; there IS a priesthood hidden there...
These noble souls are finding their way to freedom, and casting off their spiritual "pupa." There is a priesthood rising that is like unto Melchizedek, Priest of Salem.
Those are the signposts and soap boxes of the old church ladies and churchmen who have made an exciting discovery...
Vast multitudes have discovered that there is a church "out there"... in that place beyond the walls of traditional churches.
Hmmm.... rather like Jesus when he left the synagogue and began to go teach and preach.
It's that place beyond schedules and church bulletins...
It's in prison cells and hospitals, homeless shelters and mental wards. Those are the places where you will find this new breed of Christians.
It's a new church that has been shrouded in darkness.
Indeed, the "ministers" of this new church look very much like the community they've been called to serve!
Homeless, addicts, prostitutes, poverty-stricken... it's hard to tell that there is a priesthood hidden in the hearts of people who dwell in these dark places.
But, indeed; there IS a priesthood hidden there...
These noble souls are finding their way to freedom, and casting off their spiritual "pupa." There is a priesthood rising that is like unto Melchizedek, Priest of Salem.
The Discovery of a Lifetime
There's a spiritual rumbling taking place all across our country. Indeed, all across the globe...
Former "old church" ladies and "old church" men are stepping into the new identity that is part of the transformation which has been taking place in their lives for many, many years.
A great army is rising up from the ash heaps of the dark memories created by a defiled and desemated childhood.
Tainted religion, neglect and abuse that burned through young minds like fire through a dry and brittle forest has given way to renewed minds that are lavishly dressed in new garments of praise.
Former "old church" ladies and "old church" men are stepping into the new identity that is part of the transformation which has been taking place in their lives for many, many years.
A great army is rising up from the ash heaps of the dark memories created by a defiled and desemated childhood.
Tainted religion, neglect and abuse that burned through young minds like fire through a dry and brittle forest has given way to renewed minds that are lavishly dressed in new garments of praise.
Again, I Say... There's Good News Ahead
The battle between good and evil is coming to a crescendo that is thundering throughout the heavens.
"Old church" ladies and "old church" men who have discovered the genuine love of God are no longer willing to sit quietly by while the children of our nation suffer at the hands of deviant predators.
We are no longer willing to be silent while there are MILLIONS OF HOMELESS CHILDREN
living on the streets of our nation.
Homeless, abused, kidnapped, abandoned, left for dead...
The wrong people are paying the price for these kinds of atrocities in our "civilized nation."
The good news is that many voices are clamoring for change. Old church ladies and churchmen are stepping up to the microphones of blogs, newsletters, online communities and the printed media to say
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
"Old church" ladies and "old church" men who have discovered the genuine love of God are no longer willing to sit quietly by while the children of our nation suffer at the hands of deviant predators.
We are no longer willing to be silent while there are MILLIONS OF HOMELESS CHILDREN
living on the streets of our nation.
Homeless, abused, kidnapped, abandoned, left for dead...
The wrong people are paying the price for these kinds of atrocities in our "civilized nation."
The good news is that many voices are clamoring for change. Old church ladies and churchmen are stepping up to the microphones of blogs, newsletters, online communities and the printed media to say
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
The Church Outside the Church is Changing the Face of Every Church!
Old church ladies and churchmen who have wrestled with their spiritual identity are no longer seeking permission to speak their minds.
(Case In Point: Yours Truly)
Those who left the church due to emotional and spiritual injuries have recovered, and are passionately praying for those left inside the church who are still held captive to religious dogmas.
There is freedom and liberty in Christ, and it's our mission to carry that message to our world that is so desperately in need of hope and encouragement.
Judgment truly begins at the house of God.
We're longer content to sit on church pews and declare that "Something Needs to Be Done!" We're hitting the streets of our nation, and
BECOMING THE CHANGE that we want to see in our nation.
Jeremiah 2:9-1-1 (c) 2008 Connie Walcott All Rights Reserved
(Case In Point: Yours Truly)
Those who left the church due to emotional and spiritual injuries have recovered, and are passionately praying for those left inside the church who are still held captive to religious dogmas.
There is freedom and liberty in Christ, and it's our mission to carry that message to our world that is so desperately in need of hope and encouragement.
Judgment truly begins at the house of God.
We're longer content to sit on church pews and declare that "Something Needs to Be Done!" We're hitting the streets of our nation, and
BECOMING THE CHANGE that we want to see in our nation.
Jeremiah 2:9-1-1 (c) 2008 Connie Walcott All Rights Reserved
We've Been Through the Fire, and We've Been Through the Flood...
Many "old church" ladies and "old church" men have experienced some of the worst that life has to offer.
There is a generation who has passed through the refiners fire, and it has has done it's work well.
Old pain is gone...this new breed has been birthed through their time in the dark presence of God. Old doubts, pains, fears and turmoil have been cast off in favor of an intimate relationship with Christ himself.
This resilient task force is taking the lead in this invisible church that has been planted on the outside of the portals to traditional churches.
The pain of the past has been forever purged, and a striking new breed of Christians has emerged to take the helm of a brand new ship.
There is a generation who has passed through the refiners fire, and it has has done it's work well.
Old pain is gone...this new breed has been birthed through their time in the dark presence of God. Old doubts, pains, fears and turmoil have been cast off in favor of an intimate relationship with Christ himself.
This resilient task force is taking the lead in this invisible church that has been planted on the outside of the portals to traditional churches.
The pain of the past has been forever purged, and a striking new breed of Christians has emerged to take the helm of a brand new ship.
The S.S. Fellowship
There's a new vessel that's been forged from the remains of the once shattered lives of "old church" ladies and "old church" men.
The fellowship of suffering has given way to the transforming power that was instigated when Jesus was crucified.
Gone are the days of rigid rules and dress codes... the dawn has risen on bold and courageous new lives that are robed in righteousness, founded on integrity and deliberate adherence to intentional living.
Gone are the days of flying by the seat of our pants. Old church ladies who have been around the block know the dangers in the neighborhood.
We are a task force that can forever change the state of our nation... and our world.
"Old church" ladies come from good stock. What looks like extinction has really been the underground development of a highly qualified team of motivated, educated and passionate problem solvers!
The fellowship of suffering has given way to the transforming power that was instigated when Jesus was crucified.
Gone are the days of rigid rules and dress codes... the dawn has risen on bold and courageous new lives that are robed in righteousness, founded on integrity and deliberate adherence to intentional living.
Gone are the days of flying by the seat of our pants. Old church ladies who have been around the block know the dangers in the neighborhood.
We are a task force that can forever change the state of our nation... and our world.
"Old church" ladies come from good stock. What looks like extinction has really been the underground development of a highly qualified team of motivated, educated and passionate problem solvers!
LOOK UP...
LOOK UP, AMERICA.... HELP IS ON THE WAY, AND WE ARE IT!
Transformed "Old Church Ladies" Have Something to Say... and Matthew West Has Set It to Music!
Matthew West at Amazon
Something to Say
Amazon Price: $9.97 (as of 11/27/2009)
If you're living, if you're breathing...
You've got something to say!
Matthew West Is Fast Becoming Another One of My Favorite Artists
- Matthew West
- Matthew West downloads at Amazon
Transformed Old Church Ladies Have Something To Say... AND Something to Do
"The Year of the LORD's Favor
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion-
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called (oak?)
trees of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins
and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
that have been devastated for generations.
5 Aliens will shepherd your flocks;
foreigners will work your fields and vineyards.
6 And you will be called priests of the LORD,
you will be named ministers of our God.
You will feed on the wealth of nations,
and in their riches you will boast.
7 Instead of their shame
my people will receive a double portion,
and instead of disgrace
they will rejoice in their inheritance;
and so they will inherit a double portion in their land,
and everlasting joy will be theirs.
8 For I, the LORD, love justice;
I hate robbery and iniquity.
In my faithfulness I will reward them
and make an everlasting covenant with them.
9 Their descendants will be known among the nations
and their offspring among the peoples.
All who see them will acknowledge
that they are a people the LORD has blessed."
10 I delight greatly in the LORD;
my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
11 For as the soil makes the sprout come up
and a garden causes seeds to grow,
so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise
spring up before all nations.
Isaiah 61:1-11
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion-
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called (oak?)
trees of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins
and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
that have been devastated for generations.
5 Aliens will shepherd your flocks;
foreigners will work your fields and vineyards.
6 And you will be called priests of the LORD,
you will be named ministers of our God.
You will feed on the wealth of nations,
and in their riches you will boast.
7 Instead of their shame
my people will receive a double portion,
and instead of disgrace
they will rejoice in their inheritance;
and so they will inherit a double portion in their land,
and everlasting joy will be theirs.
8 For I, the LORD, love justice;
I hate robbery and iniquity.
In my faithfulness I will reward them
and make an everlasting covenant with them.
9 Their descendants will be known among the nations
and their offspring among the peoples.
All who see them will acknowledge
that they are a people the LORD has blessed."
10 I delight greatly in the LORD;
my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
11 For as the soil makes the sprout come up
and a garden causes seeds to grow,
so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise
spring up before all nations.
Isaiah 61:1-11
Jeremiah 2:9-1-1 (c) 2008 Connie Walcott All Rights Reserved
Binding Up The Broken Hearted Requires More Than a Passing... "Good Luck on Your Journey"
For too long the church has been letting people die from serious spiritual wounds that are festering inside of shattered hearts and minds that are housed in humanity.
The church has it's own vernacular.
"New Babes in Christ", or "Baby Christians" are terms used to define someone who has just had a "spiritual awakening" or has "recently been saved."
Unlike infants, baby Christians are birthed into adult human bodies. The expectations for someone who has just become a follower of Christ are much too demanding.
Just as babies need full time attention during the earliest years of their lives, new born Christians need more than just "a word" from their "spiritual parents."
Newborn spiritual babes need protection, provision and the committed caregiving that instills a sense of security, well-being, and establishes the foundation for their journey into spiritual adulthood.
Not to mention unconditional love!
The church has it's own vernacular.
"New Babes in Christ", or "Baby Christians" are terms used to define someone who has just had a "spiritual awakening" or has "recently been saved."
Unlike infants, baby Christians are birthed into adult human bodies. The expectations for someone who has just become a follower of Christ are much too demanding.
Just as babies need full time attention during the earliest years of their lives, new born Christians need more than just "a word" from their "spiritual parents."
Newborn spiritual babes need protection, provision and the committed caregiving that instills a sense of security, well-being, and establishes the foundation for their journey into spiritual adulthood.
Not to mention unconditional love!
Baby Christians Need a Fully Loaded Diaper Bag!
Diaper Bags Are Loaded By the Parent, For the Essential Care of Their New Baby
New babies don't know what to do with that wide array of baby gear. They just belt out their demands for food, clean diapers or time to be cuddled... fully expecting their needs to be met.
Diaper creme can't prevent a rash on baby's bottom if the use of the topical ointment isn't applied by someone who is acquainted with diaper rash!
Like Mom, or Dad, or Auntie, or Grandma...
While dialogue with your newborn is essential for bonding, it's only the tip of the iceberg of the demands on a responsible parent.
Diaper creme can't prevent a rash on baby's bottom if the use of the topical ointment isn't applied by someone who is acquainted with diaper rash!
Like Mom, or Dad, or Auntie, or Grandma...
While dialogue with your newborn is essential for bonding, it's only the tip of the iceberg of the demands on a responsible parent.
Old Church Ladies Who Have Recovered From a Dark or Rigid Childhood Know Full Well What Spiritual Babies Need
The fact that there are millions of homeless children walking the streets of America enrages me beyond description.
Children who are uncared for have no hope of growing into responsible, productive and happy individuals.
They need an intervention, and the new old church ladies and churchmen are beginning to network and speak out about the inadequate strategies of our political and religious structures.
Disciples of Christ are charged with the task of creating viable solutions to our most pressing social concerns.
The hearts of "old church" ladies and "old church" men are blazing with a passion to change the underlying structures of lives that have been broken; seemingly beyond repair.
We've been down the road of destroyed lives; and we know what it takes to restore and repair the lives of those who have been hit with the storms of poverty, abuse, abandon, neglect and overwhelming sorrow, and the bad government that keeps them there!
We all know that JESUS is the "how to fix it" that I speak of, but we're working our way to the details of how He does it!
Children who are uncared for have no hope of growing into responsible, productive and happy individuals.
They need an intervention, and the new old church ladies and churchmen are beginning to network and speak out about the inadequate strategies of our political and religious structures.
Disciples of Christ are charged with the task of creating viable solutions to our most pressing social concerns.
The hearts of "old church" ladies and "old church" men are blazing with a passion to change the underlying structures of lives that have been broken; seemingly beyond repair.
We've been down the road of destroyed lives; and we know what it takes to restore and repair the lives of those who have been hit with the storms of poverty, abuse, abandon, neglect and overwhelming sorrow, and the bad government that keeps them there!
We all know that JESUS is the "how to fix it" that I speak of, but we're working our way to the details of how He does it!
It's Time to Clear the Streets!
I'm not willing to keep silent while there are children in my city and my country who have no place to call home.
HOMELESS CHILDREN IN MY CITY AND MY COUNTRY NEED AN OLD CHURCH LADY LIKE ME.
Our nation is filled with desperate, starving people who are begging God for someone to help them.
I'm not the only "old church lady" who has been forever changed by the healing that has been taking place in our lives.
There is an innumerable company of those of us who have become
"Churchless Christians."
That doesn't mean we've become backsliders... that means we've spent our time in the desert, listening to the voice of Jesus, and we have come out of the wilderness of our own lives.
We are burning with the desire to seek out and rescue those are still invisible to the rest of the world, and are still held captive to the poverty and pain of their childhood injuries.
God has been developing an elite task force who has been on special assignment...
He has shown us what went wrong, and better still;
He has shown us how to fix it!
HOMELESS CHILDREN IN MY CITY AND MY COUNTRY NEED AN OLD CHURCH LADY LIKE ME.
Our nation is filled with desperate, starving people who are begging God for someone to help them.
I'm not the only "old church lady" who has been forever changed by the healing that has been taking place in our lives.
There is an innumerable company of those of us who have become
"Churchless Christians."
That doesn't mean we've become backsliders... that means we've spent our time in the desert, listening to the voice of Jesus, and we have come out of the wilderness of our own lives.
We are burning with the desire to seek out and rescue those are still invisible to the rest of the world, and are still held captive to the poverty and pain of their childhood injuries.
God has been developing an elite task force who has been on special assignment...
He has shown us what went wrong, and better still;
He has shown us how to fix it!
Old Church Ladies Are Boldy Proclaiming That It's Time to Put Our Money Where Our Mouth Is
14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?
15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.
16 If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?
17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
James 2:14-16
15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.
16 If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?
17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
James 2:14-16
Pure and Undefiled Religion is to Care For Widows and Orphans
The Needs of Those Who Lost Their Loved Ones on 911 Are Obvious...
Not one person who lost a family member on that dark and dreadful day wants to bury their memories of the precious son, daughter, mother or father they lost that day.
The pain of the sacrifices made that day will live on forever in the lives of those who now have an empty seat at their family dinner tables.
Those families deserve gentle care, tender mercies, and help with the financial burdens that were thrust upon their lives.
The pain of the sacrifices made that day will live on forever in the lives of those who now have an empty seat at their family dinner tables.
Those families deserve gentle care, tender mercies, and help with the financial burdens that were thrust upon their lives.
Those families need to talk about, think about, laugh and cry about the memories of their loved ones.
They need to cradle special momentos, keepsakes, photos, movies and pictures of happy times together...
They need us to be able to share in their journey of grief. They need us to listen, to care, to be gentle.
They don't need the added burden of inadequate finances to cope with while they are reeling under the onslaught of grief that stabs at their heart in every moment of every single day.
There's a piece of themselves missing, and that is a sad reality that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
They need to cradle special momentos, keepsakes, photos, movies and pictures of happy times together...
They need us to be able to share in their journey of grief. They need us to listen, to care, to be gentle.
They don't need the added burden of inadequate finances to cope with while they are reeling under the onslaught of grief that stabs at their heart in every moment of every single day.
There's a piece of themselves missing, and that is a sad reality that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
The SS New York
Let Us Never Forget
The SS New York is a Navy Battleship that has been built using steel from our fallen twin towers.
The ship's motto is:
Strength Forged Through Sacrifice. Never Forget.
The ship's motto is:
Strength Forged Through Sacrifice. Never Forget.
The SS New York
- Official Site of the USS New York
- Strength Forged Through Sacrifice. Never forget.
- Leadership of the USS New York
- Meet the crew of the USS New York
Those Who Lost Loved Ones in Hurricane Katrina Endure the Same Tragic Losses
The repair and restoration of the buildings and cites of that were destroyed in the double fisted blows of Katrina and Rita will never be able to ease the pain of families who lost their loved ones.
In fact, new homes and new lives just make the gaping hole in their own lives even more evident, and amplifies the loneliness.
Our nation responded with immediate disaster relief. Victims were evacuated, and transported to places of safety.
Once the people and animals were rescued, thoughts turn to cleaning up the devasted areas. The cost in human loss is immeasurable, and the financial cost is astronomical.
In fact, new homes and new lives just make the gaping hole in their own lives even more evident, and amplifies the loneliness.
Our nation responded with immediate disaster relief. Victims were evacuated, and transported to places of safety.
Once the people and animals were rescued, thoughts turn to cleaning up the devasted areas. The cost in human loss is immeasurable, and the financial cost is astronomical.
There's a Cry Coming Up From the Hearts of the New Old Church Ladies
Something Stinks in Zion!
Our nation is sitting on the ruins of invisible storms that have devastated millions of lives in our nation.
Those who endured storms of cataclysmic proportion are still watching and praying for the signs of the rescue team that will be first on the scene of their storm ravaged homes.
The storm that rocked their world has long ceased, and millions have been buried alive for many, many years. The stench is beginning to rise, and people are beginning to search for the source of the foul smell that is permeating our nation.
Indeed, that particular storm has moved on and is still actively, intermittently wreaking havoc all over the world. Many are in mortal danger, as the storm hovers just outside the scope of antiquated spiritual radar.
Our nation is sitting on the ruins of invisible storms that have devastated millions of lives in our nation.
Those who endured storms of cataclysmic proportion are still watching and praying for the signs of the rescue team that will be first on the scene of their storm ravaged homes.
The storm that rocked their world has long ceased, and millions have been buried alive for many, many years. The stench is beginning to rise, and people are beginning to search for the source of the foul smell that is permeating our nation.
Indeed, that particular storm has moved on and is still actively, intermittently wreaking havoc all over the world. Many are in mortal danger, as the storm hovers just outside the scope of antiquated spiritual radar.
Like Emergency Teams Who Restore Damaged Water and Power Lines After a Storm...
This new breed of "old church" ladies and "old church " men are responding to the emergency sirens that have been long lost in the din of the celebration of our modern culture.
Technology and creature comforts are a valued commodity in and of themselves; but they also add fuel to the fire of the worst of mankind.
Sexual predators no longer have to enter a family's home to gain access to innocent and vulnerable children.
Thieves no longer need your wallet to steal your identity.
If we choose to intentionally create the personal environment that fosters faith, we must constantly monitor the voices that boom from our televisions, radio and the internet.
The quiet sanctuary of home must be guarded incessantly in order to live a life that exemplifies our moral and spiritual convictions.
If we are to maintain a place of integrity and righteousness within the walls of our own homes, we must constantly choose to turn the dial, flip the switch or change the station.
Technology and creature comforts are a valued commodity in and of themselves; but they also add fuel to the fire of the worst of mankind.
Sexual predators no longer have to enter a family's home to gain access to innocent and vulnerable children.
Thieves no longer need your wallet to steal your identity.
If we choose to intentionally create the personal environment that fosters faith, we must constantly monitor the voices that boom from our televisions, radio and the internet.
The quiet sanctuary of home must be guarded incessantly in order to live a life that exemplifies our moral and spiritual convictions.
If we are to maintain a place of integrity and righteousness within the walls of our own homes, we must constantly choose to turn the dial, flip the switch or change the station.
Building With Invisible Materials
The invisible walls of an invisible church must be built with invisible tools and materials.
Faith, courage, and obedience to the laws of God are some of the materials that are used to create the church that includes all of God's children.
That includes those who are living outside the halls of a traditional church.
We are redeemed from the curse of the law, not the law itself.
Love God, don't kill, keep your stories straight, and deliberately teaching your children the Word of God are still fundamentals to those who are disciples of Christ.
Besides that, it's a happy place to live...
There's an inexplicable joy that comes from spending time with God. Everyone says they want to get to know God better, but we shrink from the dark circumstances that are designed to draw us closer to him!
Faith, courage, and obedience to the laws of God are some of the materials that are used to create the church that includes all of God's children.
That includes those who are living outside the halls of a traditional church.
We are redeemed from the curse of the law, not the law itself.
Love God, don't kill, keep your stories straight, and deliberately teaching your children the Word of God are still fundamentals to those who are disciples of Christ.
Besides that, it's a happy place to live...
There's an inexplicable joy that comes from spending time with God. Everyone says they want to get to know God better, but we shrink from the dark circumstances that are designed to draw us closer to him!
Are You a Spiritual Safe Place?
DO NOT WORRY:
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?
For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6: 25-33 NIV
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?
For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6: 25-33 NIV
Old Church Ladies Have Been in the Dark Presence of the Lord
Everyone seems to think that once you become a Christian, that your life is supposed to magically become the fairy tale kingdom that we have assigned to our comprehension of heaven.
While that kingdom IS that eutopia beyond our wildest imaginations, God's kingdom on earth is built through the vehicle of humanity.
Not the magical twitch of ones nose that creates an instantaeous bypass of the work of the Cross.
Christ in us, the hope of glory is a journey that we take one step at a time.
* "Rejoice, for the steps of a righteous man are ordered of God."
* "Our times are in His hands..."
* "He who began a good work in us is faithful to complete it."
* "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2
The psych term that comes to mind is:
BABY STEPS!
While that kingdom IS that eutopia beyond our wildest imaginations, God's kingdom on earth is built through the vehicle of humanity.
Not the magical twitch of ones nose that creates an instantaeous bypass of the work of the Cross.
Christ in us, the hope of glory is a journey that we take one step at a time.
* "Rejoice, for the steps of a righteous man are ordered of God."
* "Our times are in His hands..."
* "He who began a good work in us is faithful to complete it."
* "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2
The psych term that comes to mind is:
BABY STEPS!
Jesus, Bring the Rain
Jesus - Bring The Rain - MercyMe
Just since August 2005, the Lord has seen us through Hurricane Katrina, cancer, and the death of a child. In the morning I lay my requests before you, Dear God, and I wait, in EXPECTATION. Be merciful, Lord, have compassion, though I have done nothing to earn Your grace. Intercede for me Lord Jesus. Fill my heart and soul Holy Spirit. Only in You do I hope, My Redeemer, the Lord God Almighty. You alone are Holy. Jesus, Bring the Rain. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; A time of war, and a time of peace. http://www.youtube.com/bondservant007 http://www.myspace.com/bondservant007 You can read (every version of) the bible online at http://www.biblegateway.com/ You can read or listen to excellent biblical teaching online at http://www.preachtheword.com/sermon/1... You can read this little book online "Jesus Loves Me" at http://www.jesuslovesme.org/ You can read my blogs, listen to more music, and find more links at http://www.myspace.com/bondservant007 You can listen to my favorite online radio station at http://klove.com/ You can post a comment, rate this, etc. PLEASE do so - to help spread the MESSAGE of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Where is God when things go wrong? Read this book online at http://www.preachtheword.com/bookstor... Always ride with your LIGHTS ON! A lot of the beautiful, Spirit filled artwork featured in this video is from gwen@drawneartogod.com - Please let her know that her light is shining in her worshipful creations. And - a number of people have messaged me that they have shown this video in their church - Praise God! Joy comes in the morning!
Runtime: 348
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curated content from YouTube
Babies Raising Babies
Today's society is filled with babies birthing babies... the task of raising those babies is falling on the shoulders of grandparents, the church and our nations penal system.
Our society is filled with children who are pregnant with the responsiblity of the new life that will soon be brought forth from their body...
Long before they are mentally, physically, emotionally, financially, socially and spiritually equipped to govern their own young lives!
The responsibility for governing a new life is epitomized in the traditional roles known as Mom and Dad. That role was instigated by God when he told Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply.
Father God had already provided everything they needed to live in comfort and beauty while they were basking in the pleasure of his presence.
The gift of children who would continue to do the same was the crowning glory of their relationship!
A pristine world, a loving companion, and most importantly; a set time to converse with God on a daily basis...
God's original plan was for his children to engage with him; up close and personal, face to face, and with a complete absence of fear!
Our society is filled with children who are pregnant with the responsiblity of the new life that will soon be brought forth from their body...
Long before they are mentally, physically, emotionally, financially, socially and spiritually equipped to govern their own young lives!
The responsibility for governing a new life is epitomized in the traditional roles known as Mom and Dad. That role was instigated by God when he told Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply.
Father God had already provided everything they needed to live in comfort and beauty while they were basking in the pleasure of his presence.
The gift of children who would continue to do the same was the crowning glory of their relationship!
A pristine world, a loving companion, and most importantly; a set time to converse with God on a daily basis...
God's original plan was for his children to engage with him; up close and personal, face to face, and with a complete absence of fear!
The Rambling Rose
You'll have to bear with me as this lens is long on exposition...
I told you, I'm a reformed old church lady; and I have something to say!
A rose garden is a beautiful place, but it requires some dirt, some stinky fertilizer, heat and pressure, water and light... and someone who knows how to prune, protect and is patient enough to allow the rose the time it needs to grow and develop to it's full potential.
Did you ever notice that the beautiful scent of roses attracts butterflies? Beautiful images come to mind when you think of both... butterflies and roses.
BUT, the process that produced both of those lovely creatures was a long, slow, and painful procedure.
Very much like the transformation of an old church lady... and I for one; am glad to have made the trip!
I told you, I'm a reformed old church lady; and I have something to say!
A rose garden is a beautiful place, but it requires some dirt, some stinky fertilizer, heat and pressure, water and light... and someone who knows how to prune, protect and is patient enough to allow the rose the time it needs to grow and develop to it's full potential.
Did you ever notice that the beautiful scent of roses attracts butterflies? Beautiful images come to mind when you think of both... butterflies and roses.
BUT, the process that produced both of those lovely creatures was a long, slow, and painful procedure.
Very much like the transformation of an old church lady... and I for one; am glad to have made the trip!
Spectacular Butterflies Animated Slideshow
A video slideshow featuring images of interesting and spectacular butterflies from the JCMDI website, accompanied by music from TECHNICIAN. Much more video, photography and documentation is available at http://lepidoptera.jcmdi.com/index.html The Hi-Res version of this video is available on DVD. Visit http://technician.jcmdi.com/lepdvd01/lepdvd01.html for details. :D
Runtime: 223
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So, What Now?
What happens to the butterfly who has escaped the shell of their captivity?
What happens to the rose that has come to maturity, and has reached the peak of it's beauty?
What happens to transformed old church ladies?
What happens to a scattered and tattered group of old church gals that have been subjected to the dark presence of God?
What happens to the rose that has come to maturity, and has reached the peak of it's beauty?
What happens to transformed old church ladies?
What happens to a scattered and tattered group of old church gals that have been subjected to the dark presence of God?
The answer to that question makes me LOL, because I see the scope of God's plan in having bred so many old church ladies.
There is an army of us who have been force feeding our faith in order to come to believe that God really loves us.
We've been working really hard at talking ourselves into believing that we really matter to Him.
We've been speaking, AND weeping our fears to God, little realizing that he has been refining, polishing, cutting away our doubts and pains. He's been grooming our hearts to fully trust his words.
There is an army of us who have been force feeding our faith in order to come to believe that God really loves us.
We've been working really hard at talking ourselves into believing that we really matter to Him.
We've been speaking, AND weeping our fears to God, little realizing that he has been refining, polishing, cutting away our doubts and pains. He's been grooming our hearts to fully trust his words.
The Glory Storm Cometh...
We're discovering that He really loves us, and if we can come to believe that; we can come to believe that we too, shall DO the greater works that Jesus told us we would do!
It's time for transformed church ladies to stand at the ready...
the lights are down in the house;
there's a hush over the audience,
and the conductor is ready to step to the podium.
The GLORY STORM is coming, and it's going to be an awesome display of the power of Almighty God.
It's time for transformed church ladies to stand at the ready...
the lights are down in the house;
there's a hush over the audience,
and the conductor is ready to step to the podium.
The GLORY STORM is coming, and it's going to be an awesome display of the power of Almighty God.
Can I Get a Witness?
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- Gandree Gandree Sep 19, 2008 @ 10:21 pm
- Amen and Bravo. I love where you said, "The generations of those who have been battered by the mis-guided actions of dogmatic tenets are finally beginning to recover." You are right, there is a new stirring in the land and it is us :0)
I look forward to seeing more of what God has laid on your heart. I think I will add a plank to the platform about "women shall keep quiet in church". If we are the church, it's going to be pretty hard to stay quiet...Keep up the good work, Connie!
Here Are Some of the Rules According to Old School Religion
You have heard that it was said of them of old time...
In years gone by, some of the gospel that was enforced by old church folk went like this:
* Thou shalt not wear jewelry
* Thou shalt not wear makeup
* Thou shalt not dance
* Thou shalt not drink coffee
* Thou shalt not go to movies
* Thou shalt not go to professional sports games
* Thou shalt not swim in public
* Thou shalt not re-marry unless your companion dies
* Thou shalt attend church service everytime the church doors are open
* Women shall not speak in church, and will be obedient to their husbands
* Women shall not cut their hair
* Women shall not wear pants
"But I say unto you..."
These are some of the types of religious rules and regulations that Jesus spoke of when he was confronting the Pharisees.
Church has come a long way in transforming those old rules and regulations that overpowered the joy of salvation with harsh and rigid rules of performance.
Churches are doing an amazing job of creating new strategies to help meet the needs of those who have recently become a part of the family of God, but there's more to be done.
* Thou shalt not wear jewelry
* Thou shalt not wear makeup
* Thou shalt not dance
* Thou shalt not drink coffee
* Thou shalt not go to movies
* Thou shalt not go to professional sports games
* Thou shalt not swim in public
* Thou shalt not re-marry unless your companion dies
* Thou shalt attend church service everytime the church doors are open
* Women shall not speak in church, and will be obedient to their husbands
* Women shall not cut their hair
* Women shall not wear pants
"But I say unto you..."
These are some of the types of religious rules and regulations that Jesus spoke of when he was confronting the Pharisees.
Church has come a long way in transforming those old rules and regulations that overpowered the joy of salvation with harsh and rigid rules of performance.
Churches are doing an amazing job of creating new strategies to help meet the needs of those who have recently become a part of the family of God, but there's more to be done.
There is still a lot of "RELIGION" in the church, and that's the stink that must be swept from the world of Christianity.
Denominations are still overflowing with chaos and dissension that causes people to steer clear of church doors. Little wonder that only 4% of our youth are projected to become Bible believing saints.
Thank heaven for old church ladies who have been trained to be first on the scene to help nurture those who are coming to the end of their time in the dark presence of God!
The time has come for the older women to teach the younger women how to be keepers at home... No, that does not mean that you simply stay at home to cook, clean and have babies!
The homeless population of our nation is a dark reflection of the fact that millions are in desperate need of home.
Old church ladies truly are home builders, and it's our job to pass that legacy on to our children.
So, with that in mind...grab your hard hat, and let's take the next steps that will forever change the state of our nation, and the whole wide world!
Denominations are still overflowing with chaos and dissension that causes people to steer clear of church doors. Little wonder that only 4% of our youth are projected to become Bible believing saints.
Thank heaven for old church ladies who have been trained to be first on the scene to help nurture those who are coming to the end of their time in the dark presence of God!
The time has come for the older women to teach the younger women how to be keepers at home... No, that does not mean that you simply stay at home to cook, clean and have babies!
The homeless population of our nation is a dark reflection of the fact that millions are in desperate need of home.
Old church ladies truly are home builders, and it's our job to pass that legacy on to our children.
So, with that in mind...grab your hard hat, and let's take the next steps that will forever change the state of our nation, and the whole wide world!
Our Biblical Mandate
OLDER WOMEN TEACH THE YOUNGER
3 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good.
4 Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children,
5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.
Titus 2:3-5
HERE'S WHERE WE BEGIN:
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
James 1:27
3 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good.
4 Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children,
5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.
Titus 2:3-5
HERE'S WHERE WE BEGIN:
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."
James 1:27
Hold Fast - Mercy Me
An encouraging vid to Hold Fast by Mercy Me about the different issues in this world and things that people go through. Please comment. I need advice on how to make my vids better. **the pictures and footage in this are not mine and I realize the footage does not really go with the message if thought about in context with the episodes but they fit by themselves** **also, i realize that there are other videos similar to this one but I did not realize that until well into finishing it so I apologize**
Runtime: 278
324601 views
379 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
What Can We Hope To Gain By Leaving Old School Religion Behind?
Steve Brock is one of my personal heroes. He has a powerful voice, and can bring you to your feet as he shares his gift of song.
When you look deeper into his life, you can understand why he is able to sing with such passion and unrestrained praise.
He and his wife lost their 16 year old son, David, to an accident involving a drunk driver.
You can only understand their grief if you have lost a child of your own. Tragic losses like this either cause us to turn our backs on God in anger, or run to him in complete brokenness.
Steve has chosen the latter... he has embraced healing from this devastating loss, and has found comfort in the arms of Jesus.
When you look deeper into his life, you can understand why he is able to sing with such passion and unrestrained praise.
He and his wife lost their 16 year old son, David, to an accident involving a drunk driver.
You can only understand their grief if you have lost a child of your own. Tragic losses like this either cause us to turn our backs on God in anger, or run to him in complete brokenness.
Steve has chosen the latter... he has embraced healing from this devastating loss, and has found comfort in the arms of Jesus.
You can feel the depth of his spirit everytime you hear him sing his praises to the Lord.
He doesn't hesitate to share the story of his grief, and he understands people who are consumed with overwhelming emotion.
He is a comfort to the broken hearted... by simply sharing his voice, his story, and his never ending love for worshipping the Jesus who held him during those dark hours.
Religion has no place in the life of Steve Brock, he is a man with the fire of God shut up in his bones; and I highly recommend that you spend some time basking in his music.
You will find healing and comfort in the life of this man who is a spiritual powerhouse, as well as a spiritual safe place.
Purchase music at Steve's Website
He doesn't hesitate to share the story of his grief, and he understands people who are consumed with overwhelming emotion.
He is a comfort to the broken hearted... by simply sharing his voice, his story, and his never ending love for worshipping the Jesus who held him during those dark hours.
Religion has no place in the life of Steve Brock, he is a man with the fire of God shut up in his bones; and I highly recommend that you spend some time basking in his music.
You will find healing and comfort in the life of this man who is a spiritual powerhouse, as well as a spiritual safe place.
Purchase music at Steve's Website
Strength for Today and Bright Hope For Tomorrow
Amazon Price: $2.10 (as of 11/27/2009)
Steve Brock sings "Days of Elijah"
Lyrics: "Days of Elijah" These are the days of Elijah, Declaring the word of the Lord: And these are the days of Your servant Moses, Righteousness being restored. And though these are days of great trial, Of famine and darkness and sword, Still, we are the voice in the desert crying 'Prepare ye the way of the Lord!' Behold He comes riding on the clouds, Shining like the sun at the trumpet call; Lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee, And out of Zion's hill salvation comes. These are the days of Ezekiel, The dry bones becoming as flesh; And these are the days of Your servant David, Rebuilding a temple of praise. These are the days of the harvest, The fields are as white in Your world, And we are the labourers in Your vineyard, Declaring the word of the Lord! There's no God like Jehovah. There's no God like Jehovah!
Runtime: 309
40698 views
24 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
A New Hallelujah
Church just keeps getting better and better!
When the first note of New Hallelujah reaches your ears, you KNOW that something wonderful is in the air!
Michael's stage presence in New Hallelujah is a stunning display of the quiet confidence that the Bible tells us is our strength.
His face absolutely glows with love, and as his voice fills the air; you will find that you are completely captivated by the love of Christ!
Praise and worship has overtaken a generation who dares to sing a new song, and it truly is the sound of spiritual freedom!
There is a dazzling new church arising from the ashes of shattered spirits and broken dreams...
Jesus is the reason for this glorious new song, and like Michael; we intend to make him known, and make him famous... just as it should be!
Bless you, Michael, for sharing your gift with the world. We love you, Brother!
Michael's stage presence in New Hallelujah is a stunning display of the quiet confidence that the Bible tells us is our strength.
His face absolutely glows with love, and as his voice fills the air; you will find that you are completely captivated by the love of Christ!
Praise and worship has overtaken a generation who dares to sing a new song, and it truly is the sound of spiritual freedom!
There is a dazzling new church arising from the ashes of shattered spirits and broken dreams...
Jesus is the reason for this glorious new song, and like Michael; we intend to make him known, and make him famous... just as it should be!
Bless you, Michael, for sharing your gift with the world. We love you, Brother!
Let the Church Arise!
Here's The Portal Back to My Toy Shop
If you found your way here from my Bible toys lens, thanks for taking the time to stop to learn more about "old church" ladies... Now, just click the link to head on back and finish your shopping for Bible toys!-
Toys, Games & Crafts Teach Kids About the Bible
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Learning is a sensory experience for most people, but especially for children! When it comes to learning abstract principles, it's even more important to get their motor skills involved. So, let's explore some Bible toys, games and crafts tha...
"Old Church" Ladies Rock! by God's Grace Notes... aka Connie Walcott is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Based on a work at www.squidoo.com.
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God's Grace Notes for the Times of Our Lives Headquarters
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"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans for hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
by gods_grace_notes
I'm an "old church" lady who is on an adventure to change the reputation of "Old Church Ladies" everywhere.
We've had enough of the religious statu... (more)
We've had enough of the religious statu... (more)
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