Monday, October 26, 2009

No Regrets

Why is it, that when death comes to someone we love, some of us tend to have regrets of things we "didn't" take the time to do or say, with our loved one while they were alive?

We tend to start playing the "if" game.

"If" only "I" had come to see, visit, or shown this person that they really were worth my time instead of being busy doing ??????.

I, for one am guilty of that, sure I may think of them often, I'm always saying "oh,let me call so and so, ehh I'll call them after I finish this".
But do I ever make the time to call them, visit or even to reach out to them.

MAKE the time to "cherish, enjoy and value" whatever time you have on God's earth with those you Love, your husband, wife, mom, dad, son or daughter.

Tell them daily and show them that you love them and that you appreciate them.

God is awesome, God is good, very good - God is Love... take the time to let God know how much you love and appreciate Him as well.


"tomorrow is not promised"


I love you JESUS!!!!!!!

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Acts 14:17

Nevertheless he did not leave himself without witness, in that he did Good and gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons filling our hearts with food and gladness.


Life is good; sometimes we have to remind ourselves of that simple truth.
When the work of earning a living, raising a family, maintaining health and fitness, and managing relationships starts to overwhelm us, its good to think about how small our part in the universe really is. While we worry about our families and we preoccupy ourselves over our work, God quietly does His.

He keeps the earth rotating, the planets revolving, and the seasons changing. Without any help from us, He makes the sun rise every morning and set every evening. Everynight He tucks us in and changes the patterns of lights in the sky. He turns out the light so we can sleep, and turns it on again so we can see, work and play. Without lifting a finger we get to enjoy sunrises and sunsets. Our lawns get watered from heaven. Every year the season's change on schedule.

We don't need to pray about it or tell God that its time to send spring. All that He does should remind that "Life is Good" because "God is good", and He will always be there for us; all we have to do is call or reach out for Him. I'am so sure that He loves to hear from us, when we talk to Him be it through prayers or just carrying on a conversations as we do with our loved one's and friends.

Life will sometimes be difficult,painful and for now imperfect. Still it is good, for in all these things nothing can seperate me from God's lavish expressions of Love!
I Love my Lord with all my being and HE is my all. He will never deceive me. I walk with Him, I talk with Him and I know that if I'am an obedient servant, He will give me my heart's desire.

Sis Amy

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Holiday Baking

Hello, All,

As we get close to the holidays, I thought it might be fun to post favorite recipes. These are great for family, friends, and fundraising! :) I hear tonight the menu is meatloaf. Yum. Looking forward to the youth revival.

Peanut Butter Fudge

4 cups sugar
2 cups milk
1/4 stick oleo
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 large jar marshmallow cream.
Boil sugar, milk and oleo to soft ball stage, full rolling boil, stirring constantly, at least 10 minutes on medium heat. Remove from heat and add remaining ingredients, and beat till blended. Pour into buttered 9 X 13" pan.

Love to all,
Sis. D.

Monday, October 19, 2009

God's blessing in disguise...

1 Peter 1:3-9
3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.
4 whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakes of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
5 And besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge;
6 and to knowledge, temperance; and to temperance, patience; and to patience, godliness;
7 and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity.
8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins


I really want to take this moment to thank God for allowing circumstances that at the time I didn't understand, to happen in my life. I was feeling so tired, tired and tired all the time. My mornings consisted of ironing and getting my husband out the door then getting my kids ready along with myself and running out the door! My mind was constantly saying along with my mouth...gotta hurry, gotta hurry!I was constantly rushing from the moment I woke up til it was time to go to sleep. And was I cranky all the time, sometimes more than usual. I also felt like I wasn't giving as much as I could of myself to my husband, my children, my church, church choir and most of all my job as a Sunday school teacher.

About the middle of August I was told that our place of employment was shutting down. I was happy but sad and eventually realized regardless of how I was feeling this was going to happen. It took about a month for us to shut it down completely and at first I was lost, I didn't know what I was to do with myself. Now a month after being laid off I can see some of what God had and has in store for me. I'm learning to trust and listen not with me flesh ears but my spiritual ears.

Now I'm not at my best, but I thank the good Lord above for giving me the break I was really needing so that I can do my most, my best for Him and what He has planned for me. HIS will not mine! HIS time not mine...I praise you Jesus!!!!!

Sis Jovita

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Galatians 2:19-20

For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.

A lot of times we as sinners's run and keep running because we cannot forgive ourselves, and tend to forget the stripes that Jesus Christ took for us and how he suffered on "that wooden cross" for us. Jesus always forgives us because He loves us unconditionally no matter what we do.

I was in the world for quite a while and although I knew I was not living right, I always felt like I was "not" ready; I was too busy living my life, a life without meaning, a life with an on going maze, just a jumble of a mess. I kept running like a hamster on a wheel, getting nowhere fast. I was raised in church and I was a believer, but like the old cliche goes and most seem to think, the "grass is greener" on the other side. It took quite alot of bad choices and hitting rock bottom that I finally realized that a life without God, is No life at all.

I didn't realize that going to church was more than listening to the preaching, reading the bible, worship and praise, until a young man named David crossed my path. He asked me if I had ever had a personal relationship with Jesus. I answered "I guess not, what do you mean?". He went on to tell me how "in love" he was with Jesus and how Jesus was everything to him. At the time I was still out in the world (back sliding) and I did not want to hear anything about going to church, but from the day my friend had talked to me about having a relationship with Jesus a day did not go by that I wasn't thinking about having a relationship with Jesus.
I came back home to church and I finally experienced the relationship with Jesus that my friend had talked to me about. If it had not been for that relationship with my sweet Jesus I would not have been able to overcome all the pain and hurt that came with my 17 year old son's death. A lot of the times it takes a tragedy to bring us back to the Lord as it happened to me. My Lord Jesus was always there for me to run into His loving arms. I thank my sweet Jesus for His undying love, for His patience and for never abandoning me or my family. I love my Jesus so very much because He wakes me up in the morning and He tucks me in at night. He reminds me through the day of His love for me. When I get called home, if I can leave anything for my children it would be a legacy of "living a happy life for God, my Lord and Savior" who is, was and always will be the same.

Sis Amy

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Cupcake Wednesday

Hello, All,

On Wednesday's this month, I thought I might share some cupcake recipes. Those of you who know me well know that I LOVE to collect recipes. Hope you enjoy and love to all...Sis. D.

Candy Bar Cupcakes

Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup baking cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

FILLING:
6 ounces fat-free cream cheese
2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1 egg
2 Snickers candy bars (2.07 ounces each), finely chopped

FROSTING:
1/3 cup butter, cubed
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
3 tablespoons fat-free milk
1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions
In a large bowl, beat the sugar, buttermilk, oil and vanilla until well blended. Combine the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into sugar mixture until blended.
For filling, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg; mix well. Stir in the candy bars.
Fill 18 paper-lined muffin cups one-third full with batter. Drop filling by tablespoonfuls into the center of each (cups will be about half full). Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the filling comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
For frosting, in a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar. Bring to a boil; cook for two minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat; stir in the milk, then confectioners' sugar. Cool until frosting reaches spreading consistency. Frost cupcakes. Yield: 1-1/2 dozen.

Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Ingredients
1 package (14 ounces) banana quick bread and muffin mix
3/4 cup water
1/3 cup sour cream
1 egg
1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips, divided
1 tablespoon shortening

Directions
In a large bowl, combine the muffin mix, water, sour cream and egg; stir just until moistened. Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
Fill greased or paper-lined miniature muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 375° for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
For frosting, in a small microwave-safe bowl, melt shortening and remaining chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Frost cupcakes. Yield: 3-1/2 dozen.

Monday, October 12, 2009

"Thanks" for my Church Home and Church Family

Psalm 100: 4 & 5
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting And His truth endures to all generations.


Well, let me first say hello and apologize for blogging so late. I've never been a blogger so please bear with me. It's going to be short and I pray sweet..Monday blogging is for Home and Family.

I'm thankful that I serve a forgiving and merciful God, whose grace is made new every day.

I thank Jesus for finding me "worth" the price.

Thank you Lord for blessing me with a the husband who will soon be in church with us. Thank you Lord for all my Kids.
Thank you Lord for blessing me with a "lay off".
Thank you Lord for the great Church family I get to spend time with. The Church I have the privlege to call my church home.
I'm just really thankful..... love ya'll

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Happy October!

Hello, All,

October is here and I'm off to a slow start. First of all, I will be hitting up several of you to blog at tonight's service. It would be awesome if we had some volunteers before then. :) Remember that we begin serving dinner tonight at 6:30. I believe the menu is ENCHILADAS!

Sunday night was just an incredible service. I love it when we wear out two drummers.

The fall has good things in store for our church...Youth Revival, Youth/Young Adult Fall Social, Revival for the church, Block Party, Thanksgiving Feast, Leadership Retreat, and on and on...

We are wrapping up Secret Sisters. Ok, 'fess up...who is my wonderful pal?

Sunday School is a happening place these days. This month we anticipate all of the classes moving to new rooms to have more space. The youth area is finished and looking great. Outreach is really going well. The group last weekend was really, really excited about some of the things that happened.

I want to say that I am so thankful for all of you. What a beautiful family that we have in Grand Prairie and what heart you have for ministry. I hope you have a beautiful day.

Love to all,
Sis. D.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

devotion

Jesus wants us to devote ourselves for his purpose.He says be like a child and you will enter the kingdom of heaven. A child listens and wants to learn how to be pleasing to their parents.To take their advice and mature from it. He also says he is no willing to let any of his sheep go astray. He's happier every time one of us make our way back to him.I love that he takes such joy in our well being. He also says give up everything for me and you will have treasure in the kingdom of god.Well Ill say i want all that and i love god and want to please my father who loves me.God deserves a lot from me.So I want to bring his sheep back to him. I'm trying to reach out to my generation.I know how happy he'll be when my tasks of winning souls comes to pass.I want my time to come, but for now I want to grow and advance my skills. I know my family and friends will be there praising one day. I claim it. I'm glad every time I reach someone with my testimony. I know it plants a seed and I want to be there to see that seed start to grow.Amen Amen I know god brought me back because I can still fulfill his purpose and I want to reach my goal!!!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

back in time

Sorry I am doing this so late. I was helping the ladies make peanut brittle. That was fun. Sis Lety Galviz was suprised on how crazy it gets when all these pentecostal ladies get together. Tonight I want to say that I am very thankful with what the Lord is doing in the church. I'm excited for the young people and all the kids that are attending on wednesdays.
I was thinking on a question that Vanessa asked me the other day. She asked "mom, don't you wish that we could go back in time before Papi broke his arm and was working?" I answered "yes, but we can't can we". Lots of time we all have wish that could happen, especially when bad situations happen in our lives. Many of us have done that we are not proud of, maybe when we were young and in school or we have said some things we should not have said. Sure I would want to go back in time before my husbands accident or when Victoria totalled my van. But we must keep trusting in the Lord and really believe that God is in control and that everything happens for a reason. Our main goal is to forget about what could of been or what should of happened and just do what God wants us to do now and in the future. We just have keep busy doing God's work and try and win some souls. Don't ever doubt God or His love for you.

Sis Nydia

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

devotion

I'm devoted to restoring my family.The one thing that means so much mo me in this life. I'm determined to see it come to pass. The things that has happened to me when i was young make me want to fight that much harder. Ive been through things that no one else knows about but god! As a child growing up Ive endured a lot of emotional suffering.Been hurt by people Ive trusted and loved.I believe that god has brought me back to fight and i know he wants to give it back to me. To turn every bad memory around. I cant wait to see my miracle to come to pass. I believe that there's something great instore for my family. Our past has effected us a lot and no one will ever understand for feel the way we do. I believe it will make me a stronger person though! Even though I have a lot of tears i know it will turn to joy!! Gods up to something! I guess i have to wait and see. I promise i wont give up! amen!amen! I'm glad that my past has given me a deeper drive and meaning to devoting myself to god! I'm glad that some have never been the places i have or felt the pain i have. I believe that i can break the cycle.By keeping it from happening to my family i have now. Everything happens for a reason even though it has been bad good has come from it too.I'm glad that god is watching over me and no one will ever hurt me in those ways again. I love how my little sister always says,"Don't you know were protected!"I believe it! thank you lord you are awesome!!

My Heart Today

My heart today is breaking....

As I shared with some of you last week, we have a situation in our school district where two of our students lost their mother. It is an extremely sad situation and we are working with the students to try to meet their needs. In talking this morning, we found out that they are completely out of food. These are good kids who keep getting up everyday and coming to school, doing homework, and trying to maintain a normal life. One is a high school senior and is trying to take care of his little sister, a 9th grader. We are heading to a food bank today to get food but just thinking of these kids and the normal needs of my kids is causing me to stop and wonder how we can minister. I'm sure they are without daily personal items, gas, supplies for school, etc. We are making a long-range plan and helping the young man get a part-time job. However, today there are two kids trying to do the best they can in a big, lonely world. Can you help? If so, see me at church. It doesn't have to be immediate but if you can help, I will make sure these kids get what they need.

31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory.
32All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
33He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

41"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
42For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink,
43I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'

44"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'

45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'

I love you, my family! Sis. D.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Families.

The topic for mondays are "Family and Home". Not that I think the topic is bad....it is just broad. I can go any directions I want, but most times, I get stumped. So here goes another attempt to keep your reading attention with boring stories, anectdotes and general questions....

I start this blog with this question.....how much "family time" do you spend with your immediate family?

Some people are so busy with the hustle and bustle of life, church activities, school, and cleaning that they don't spend quality time with each other.

I challange you to this....

Spend at least one evening at home together as a family. And do things together that does not require anything but good ol' time spent. Do not use the time spent as a reward, or a punishment, just use it to build your family.
Here are some ideas.....

Visit the zoo
Find out about your area's community center and/or park activities.
Wash the dog. (A neighbor's dog if you don't have one!)
Have a family slumber party.
Build a fort.
Get out the the family photo album.
Research your family history.
Play stickball.
Play hopscotch.
Play games
Clean the house together (Have a pick-up party.)
Make up a play. Take it to a nursing home.
Fly kites.
Go on a family trip/historical excursion.
Did it snow? Go sledding and make a snowman.
Make a collage out of pictures from old magazines.
Set up a lemonade stand on a warm day.
Shoot hoops together. Play H.O.R.S.E.
Draw pictures of members of your family.
Make a family calander
Tell stories around a campfire. (Or at the barbecue?)
Organize a game of capture the flag.
Make miniature boats and float them in some water.
Write letters to grandparents
Play freeze-tag.
Play broom ball.
Go for a hike.
Go for a bike ride together.
Go get ice cream and walk around the park.
Learn to play the guitar together.
Listen to classical music, lights off, lying on the floor, and take turns saying what it sounds like.
Attend community concerts or listen to a local band.
Organize a community clean-up.
Visit the library.
Go ice skating or roller skating.
Paint a picture, a mural or a room.
Learn how to use a compass.
Plant a tree or some flowers.
Learn the metric system.
Learn sign language.
Learn the Morse code.
Go swimming.
Go bird watching.
Walk the dog. (A neighbor's dog if you don't have one!)
Visit the countryside.
Visit the City. (Maybe on a bus?)
Pick berries/fruit together
Bake cookies or bread.
Make homemade jam.
Take treats to neighbors or friends.
Plant a garden.
Join a family choir.
Start a family journal.
Go to a museum.
Take a nature hike trail.
Play cards.
Start a family exercise group.
Sing (in the car).
Visit a local bookstore or library.
Make crafts together. Give them away.
Make Christmas ornaments together.
Write a story together.
Put a sleeping bag out in the back yard and watch the night sky through binoculars.
Go fishing.
Play touch football

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Lite Classic Pecan Pie


Good afternoon everyone. Next week will be the first official day of Fall. So we need to get into the baking mode. So I have given ya'll a recipe for a Lite Classic Pecan Pie. Hope you all enjoy!

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)

* 1 cup Karo® Lite Syrup*
* 3 eggs
* 1 cup sugar
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon Spice Islands® Pure Vanilla Extract
* 1 1/2 cups pecans
* 1 unbaked 9-inch deep dish pie crust

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DIRECTIONS

1. Mix syrup, eggs, sugar, butter and vanilla using a spoon. Stir in pecans.
2. Pour into pie crust.
3. Bake at 350 degrees F on center rack of oven for 60-70 minutes.
4. Cool for 2 hours before serving.


* Karo® Light or Dark Corn Syrup can also be used in place of Karo® Lite Syrup.

TIPS: Pie is done when center reaches 200 degrees F. Tap center surface of pie lightly – it should spring back when done. For easy clean up, spray pie pan with cooking spray. If pie crust is over browning, cover edges with foil.
*
High Altitude Adjustments: Reduce sugar to 2/3 cup and increase butter to 3 tablespoons. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees F.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

devotion

In my devotion I have to change my ways.The way I talk and dress and also the things I do. I'm glad because I have a little girl who looks up to me. She imitates the things I do.Shes very curious of the way Ive changed already. She watches me pray,sing and read the word.Samara says," I'm so proud of you mom!" In her eyes I'm succeeding already.I love that! I want to be a good mother and role model for her.One day my daughter had fever blisters in her mouth. She cried for a couple days I tried putting salt and peroxide in her mouth nothing worked.I told her "lets pray well do it together."We got on our knees and prayed the next day they were gone. She was so happy she said " IT WORKED!" I love you Jesus!Now when i read the bible she wants to also.She wants to learn so I'm teaching her bible verses. I'm so happy she has already memorized one! I want to teach her the best way of life. So in the future she know better than I did. She wont end up the places I did or around the kind of people I was around.She always complains that she scared at night and of monsters. So I'm teaching her the armor of god! In Ephesians 6:14 it says stand firm with then, with the belt of truth buckled at your waist,with the breastplate of righteousness in place,and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this take up the shield of faith,with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit,which is the word of god. She gets the concept of it that she can fight all the things that scare her with the armor of god! She puts it on when shes scared.It gives her confidence this is her favorite thing Ive taught her.This still helps me to this day!!I'm glad she wants to be like me!! She tells me I want to find a friend like you mom! Shes changed to now shes a little more girly. She was a big tomboy before we came to church and now shes wants dresses. Shes a little more friendly too!Our devotion is changing us for the better!!

Monday, September 14, 2009

Memories..

How do you document family traditions, memories, activities?

There are many ways for you to keep a journal of your family's memoires.

Basic Photo album:
This give you the opertunity to place the pictures quickly and as you go about life. Problem is, that typically there is no room to write a caption, or special thought that might go with the reason you snapped the picture anyways. The good thing about this method is that it is basically no fuss, nothing special to buy, except the pictures. It is just a hard time to remember to take the picture of the memory stick.....geez.

Scrapbook:
A scrapbook used to be where you could place things in a book to keep such as an article clipped from the paper, an award won, etc.
Now-a-days, they have gotten more complexed. A fancy suped up photoalbum, where you are able to write stories, memories, details of an event, as well as keep the "scraps" also. This can tend to be overwhelming, if you are a late scrapper. Keeping up with pictures is hard to do when there are so many events in a year. There is also the need for acid free papers, cool scissors and all sorts of other doodles and daddles of things you can buy to make your book fancy. But the end result is typically a fun family book that you can be proud of, and want to look at often.

Online photostorage:
I have heard of a few people using programs online such as flcker, photobucket and picasa as their families picture storage. This lends itself to an easier way of sharing your pictures with family and friends online.

Blogs:
This is more like an online journal. But there are templates and gadgets that you can add to your blog that keep family and friends updated on your life. It is as real-time as you want it to be (depends on how often you update it) You can add just text, or pictures if you want.

Cardboard box of pictures:
This is what my mom had.....you know...sort of like the sock basket.....it is where every picture ever taken is dumped...I don't like this way! ha ha.

I have done one of each at one point in life.....if at any time you want more information on any of these, get with me and we can chit chat about it...

Friday, September 11, 2009

Hair Updos For Church

Last night I was on you tube trying to find something quick and simple to do with my hair. We all know most of us ladies have kids so we don't have much time on Sunday mornings to do our hair. I know I don't! :0) Well here are some videos on how to do the do. On the first two videos there is some music playing in the background just turn your volume down please.


This hair style is very elegant and beautiful!


I love this one I really need to try it. Maybe this Sunday, you never know!


Just a few bobby pins, hair spray and your on your way. Alright everybody just one more!


It is very possible to do something to your hair even if it is forever long! These are just a few styles that I thought were very nice for Sunday morning or even Wednesday night. I can't wait for my hair to be like hers. I love it! This is our GLORY ladies. Well everybody I hope ya'll have a good weekend talk atcha next week!

Love Sis. Jessi :0)

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Hope all is well with everyone. With the kids going back to school I know that life becomes a little hectic with getting them ready, feeding breakfast, going to work, helping with homework and all the other hosework duties. Sometimes we get overwhelmed with all these things. There are times in our lives when we feel exhausted, frustrated, and wanting to just scream at the top of our heads. I know I do sometimes. Like the Bible says our help is in you Lord. I want to talk a little about our lost loved ones. After the message Bro. Duvall preaches Sunday morning about the prodigal son I was thinking about all those who have left the church to like he said "try to find something better out in the world". I text my brother after church and said "I wish you would just come back to church, I miss you". I really don't understand why someone would turn their back on God after all He has done for us and after feeling his mighty prescence. When another brother of mine had left the church, sometimes I was mean when I spoke to him thinking that would make him understand until my pastors' wife told me you are not going anywhere with being mean, so I stopped. I just tried to encourage him and it took some years of fasting and praying but eventually he came back. Most of the time a person leaves the church at a younger age and it usually because of friends that that person begins to associate with.. I want to say to all mothers we must be careful at all times who our kids associate with, especially teenagers.
Going back to my other brother, after the text he said "I don't think I will be back, because I don't agree with all the holiness standard" My heart sad for him, because he has lots of talents that could be used for the Lord. I began to think about his statement. The Bible says "Be ye Holy for I am Holy" how plain could that be for us. I know he was talking about wearing shorts because he likes to play sports. The way I look at it is that Holiness is just a small price to pay to make it to heaven. Whatever it takes to make it home, I'll do it. If it takes wearing skirts all the time, if it takes not cutting one's hair, if it takes not wearing jewelery or make up I'll do it. I will not let anything stop me from getting my crown and seeing Jesus. NOTHING IS GOING TO STOP ME FROM GETTING THERE. I would rather be safe than sorry and not make it to heaven for pettiness. Our main goal in life is to please God in every way. AT THE END, IT WILL ALL BE WORTH IT.

So if you have a lost love one have mercy on them and just keep praying that the Lord somehow touch their heart before His coming.

NYDIA

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

devotion

Devotion has its steps. Devoting yourself to Christ is more than just devoting yourself on Sunday! Its devoting yourself back everyday. It says in John 15:7 "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given to you." Jesus tells us this because we will fight everyday against the enemy. He doesn't want us to have eternal life. He wants us to fail and fall back. Jesus already knows what is to come so i love that he warns us to just remain in him. To pray everyday and grow from reading the word. The knowledge we have will prepare us for the fight to come. The bible gives us the tools to fight. You can never undo the knowledge you put in yourself. In John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you will have peace. In this world you will have trouble.But take heart! I have overcome the world!!" I love this verse because it gives us confidence that there's nothing god cant bring us through! I like the saying what doesn't kill us only makes us stronger!! So true every fight we make it through makes us that much stronger to have confidence that he will bring us through the next! The spirit gives life and our flesh counts for nothing! Keeping myself in the word helps me when i face those people who know who i was and what i use to do. When they ask me to smoke with them that it will be OK Jesus will forgive me. I love that the more i read the more i know better and I grow more fear of god that I know he watching and that nothings worth me giving in.Like it also says in Mark 8:36 "What good is it for a man to gain the world and forfeit his soul." Nothing I have in this life will leave with me. So i put pride in me knowing the word. The words I stain my heart with I will take and god can see. This world is a matter of who you will give your soul to.A god who wants to give you life love and peace. Or the devil who wants you to die and burn in eternal hell. It your choice who will you serve? I'm glad Jesus never reminds me of who i was but who i can now become.Those people cant break me down because I KNOW WHO I AM!! I'VE COME THIS FAR AND I WONT TURN BACK!!It feels so much better this way i love you Jesus!!

Monday, September 7, 2009

Monday chat with Layla.

Hello, it is me again. Your good ol' forgetful blogger friend Layla.

At last weeks ladies meeting after evening church, from across the room, Sister Duvall talked me into blogging again. Thanks for that. Maybe this is the motivation I need to pick my own personal blog back up...I have been slacking in that.

Family and Home is supposed to be the Monday topic. So, good luck to you readers, because I have a messy home and a crazy family....so I am not sure how enlightened you will be for this next month.

I am an advocate for music in the home. Every day I watch two babies and all day, as I go about my day, I either have "toddler tunes" or "Light Classical" playing. I find that music not only helps me with the kids, but it helps my piece of mind...well I say that, but I do admit the toddler tunes are for the babies, not me, I could do without hearing the rubber ducky song a million times a day...ha ha.
But with the music, when I have it on classical and Aaron and Alyssa are home, I find that they do not fight as much. They are more focused, and dare I say more attentive and thorough. I don't have to repeat my directions to them as much, and they are likely found reading, being creative with art, or wanting to do activities that require the use of their minds rather than the braincell sucking video games.
I would love to say they are learning Mozart, Chopin and all the other great composers, but their desire to work I think stems from their distaste for the music choice, but the soothing rhythms are what contribute to the peace in the home.
And with the babies, they get to hear educational songs that showcase ideas like abc's, nursery rhymes, etc.....

Now I am not saying that classical and toddler tunes are for everyone....but I do think that if we all incorporate a little more music into our children's lives, not only do they benefit from the words of the songs, melody, etc....but it could in fact help them in their walk with God.

I blogged here before about my favorite song/poem. Well that was one of many hymns I learned as a youth (among my favorite, Count your Many Blessings, How Great Thou Art) and that is one of many songs that come to mind when I am in situations that cause me to have to make critical choices for my spirit.

When I first came to Church with Jason, and alter call seemed crazy weird and albeit a bit uncomfortable for me, I used my favorite hymns to help me focus on Christ, rather than trying to figure you guys out. I would sit at my pew, not knowing or understanding worship, bent over trying to pray in different ways than I was used to, trying to put words into my mouth that even remotely sounded like praise, I didn't know how, so I would sing.
"When upon life's billows your tempest tossed, when you are discouraged thinking all is lost, count your many blessing name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done."
So I sang that song out loud, then I would heed it's directions, and start to name all the blessings in my life, which led to me then thanking Christ for those blessing, which then led to me praising.
I learned to praise through music.
I learned to lift Christ up through music.
I am touched to the core by hearing other's testimonies through the lyrics they write.

Another example of how music has helped me,

When at ladies conference, before service one afternoon, the bookstore lady got up and showcased a cd that was for sale. AS. SOON. AS. I. HEARD. IT. I knew I had to have it. I couldn't stop thinking about it, when service was over, i went right over and bought it. I would listen to that song I heard in the preview over and over again. I got home, Jason loved the cd, and started playing it at church as the prelude music. And then that unforgettable night, at the Kennons farewell, they were testing the sound in the sanctuary, and they blasted my song. I had a plateful of food, and heard them testing the speakers....I asked them to restart the song, because it was already half way through, I put my full plate down, walked into the sanctuary and joined the other two people in there and started praying, and praising....next thing I know, I look up and there were a roomful of people in there praising... now I am not saying I was the reason that happened, I am just trying to show how my desire for music, and the Spirit, led me to buy the cd.....and now everyone hears that song and it brings the desire of that night back into our minds and hearts

And you never know when your child will be in a situation, and a song they learned in Sunday School (or during service, or choir) will pop into their minds and keep them from making a bad choice, or help them learn to do good. Play good music for you and your family and it will benefit them more than your eyes can see. That is a promise.

Enjoy!


Friday, September 4, 2009

God Is Wonderful, He Is Alive and On The Move

Good morning everyone! I hope you all had a great week! I know I have! The power of God has been moving all around. I think it's in the water or something! = ) Well everyone I have to tell you about a young lady that I met about 3 weeks ago. Her name is Rosa Rodriguez. She has a 2 1/2 year old boy and has been facing some troubles in her life lately. One night we were just hanging out at my mother-in-law's house and she happened to be there with her boyfriend, Carlos, working on his car. We all went to the back to sit down and we started talking about Jesus our wonderful savior. She was claiming to be Catholic. Which was not a problem to me. I was just telling her about our Lord and how great he has been moving at our church. We got to the speaking in tongues and it kinda threw her off a bit. She said she went to church but never heard about that. We explained it to her and about everything that God can do in her life. We talked for a while. At the end before we were leaving I invited her to church and she was so excited to say yes. You could tell she was hungry for more. I woke up the next morning not knowing what to expect when I called her. But she was bright eyed and bushy-tailed ready to go! We got to church on a Sunday morning. It was a little unusual for her all the singing and worshiping. I had to explain what was going on. She then understood a little. Our Pastor spoke a wonder sermon as usual. She said that the sermon was speaking right to her. I told her that God knew she was gonna be here before she had even decided to. She had wanted to cry but was holding back. I said if you feel the need to cry you cry. Well the service was over and we all went to eat. As us Pentecostals always do. = ) Her boyfriend happened to come along. We tried inviting him to church but he was a little skeptical about it. He went that night. Well to make a longer story short she has been coming faithfully for about three weeks. This past Wednesday service we had an evangelist come and speak, Bro. Sam Emory. He is an awesome preacher. The service was about God is always there whether the times are rough or times are great we just have to seek him cause he is always on the move. The whole time the services was going on she was clapping and worshiping just like us. At the end of service he asked everyone who as never gotten the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in tongues to come down to the altar. She paused and looked at me and I told her to go. She went and the spirit of God rained on her. She was speaking in tongues. This is the wonderful gift that God has for everyone just waiting for them to seek him. After the whole service was over she was glowing. She said that her burdens have been lifted off of her. She felt so great and happy ready to receive more. Since that day we have seen each other everyday and she is still glowing with the presence of God. She is trying to live her life serving our mighty, powerful and merciful Creator. She can't stop talking about what has happened to her. Everyone God has a new cup of mercy waiting for us everyday even if we fail don't give up keeping going. God never wants us to give up. When the going gets rough turn to him and he will always be there. Bro. Emory said if you don't have a father here on earth, you always have a father up in heaven. Well everyone just keep my friend in your prayers so her walk with God will get even stronger. Thank you everyone for reading this. I hope it has gave you as much joy that it has given me. God is just waiting for us, he is always around. Hope everyone will have a blessed weekend in Jesus name.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Puerto Rican Tacos

Hello Everyone! Hope everyone is having a blessed day! I am about to tell you how to make Puerto Rican Tacos. I hope everyone will enjoy this recipe. = )

Your Ingredients:
~ Toothpicks
~ Seasonings ( Garlic, Salt and One Tomato Bouillon Cube)
~ Oil
~ Flour Tortillas
~ One can of peas
~ One potato
~ One pack of hamburger meat (est. @ 2.5 lbs.)
~ Lettuce
~ Cheese
~ Avocados
~ Chili
~ Sour Cream
~ Onions
~ Tomatoes
~ And whatever else you can think of to put in your tacos!

First you cook your meat in a deep pan. While your meat is cooking get your potato and dice it up in to little pieces. When the meat is done, rinse it with hot water. Put it back in the pan. Add you potatoes and your can of green peas in your meat. Add a small amount of oil so you can fry it just a bit. Season your meat with garlic, salt, and one tomato bouillon cube. Warm up you flour tortillas in the microwave for a minute so they will get soft. (Not to long because they will get hard.) Get your flour tortillas add your meat. Fold the tortillas in half. Then put your toothpick on the outer edge of your tortillas so your meat will not fall out. After that you are going to fry them until crunchy. (Not burnt.) Take out the toothpicks and add your toppings. Eat and Enjoy!
Love You All,
Sis. Isela

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

devotion

My devotion to god is the wisest choice I've ever made in my life.Before I came back to church I felt like the world was breaking me down. Like everything that could go wrong went wrong.I was suffocating in pain like I was running on my last breaths. The group i was in was lost and now face prison or death.The day I decided to devote my life back to Christ was the best day of my life!!!I felt like i was really born again.I love going too my church its my sacred place.His spirit is so strong. I can feel him hovering over me.Just the kind of love I'd been searching for.See god gives you good things when you seek him.When you just close your eyes and speak from the heart.I don't have that sickness in my body or the need to smoke anymore.I don't feel empty and alone.The devil had my eyes blinded and my ears locked to god.I didn't know he was always there.He saw everything I was going through,but he couldn't help me if I hadn't asked.When I did he gave my sight back I know where I need to be.I can hear his voice saying,"Don't look back I have better things ahead." Breathing life back into me.In Genesis 28:15 god says" I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go." He's my deliverer he's taken so much off of me. Isn't this the kind of love everyone searches for? He just gives and takes away!! All you have to do is devote your time to him and dwell on his name.His works are amazing,he's always watching and waiting for your cry out to him. I know that in good time my devotion will pay off and soon I will be free. Free to enter the promise land and free to fly into the arms of my maker.Ill tell you this he's worth changing for.You'll never forget the day you decide to devote your time to him! I don't!!!!

Monday, August 31, 2009

Memorizing the Bible A to Z

Good morning to all!

What a beautiful atmosphere there was in service last evening. The "sweetness" of God was so refreshing. We had a great ladies meeting afterward and then a meeting for Bible Quizzing. It looks like we will have beginner, junior, and intermediate teams this year! How exciting. Also, I can't wait for the festivities of next Sunday and the "Heels in the Kitchen" party tomorrow night. Let's all keep Nikki and little one in our prayers. They are inducing labor tomorrow.

One of my burdens lately has been our children and how to build a desire to memorize scriptures and become familiar with the Bible. It is the staying power of our spiritual life. In my daily devotional, James Dobson wrote "I'm suggesting that we stop and consider the brevity of our years on earth, perhaps finding new movitation to preserve the values that will endure." I Chronicles 29:15 states "For we are here for but a moment, strangers in the land; our days on earth are like a shadow, gone so soon, without a trace." How caught up with get with this earth. If we could just stop and shake ourselves and remind ourselves that we are here to prepare for the life to come. Truly, the things of this world will pass away.

I ran across this idea for helping your kids memorize scriptures. Perhaps you might want to try it, also. Use the ABC's and in 26 days, memorize 26 scriptures. Ready? Let's go...

A

Proverbs 7:2 Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.

B

Psalms 4:4 Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.

C

Galatians 3:26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

D

John 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

E

Psalms 8:9 O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!

F

Matthew 4:19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

G

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

H

Psalms 42:1 As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.

I

Psalms 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

J

Psalms 126:5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

K

Revelation 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

L

1 John 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

M

Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

N

Romans 15:2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.

O

Proverbs 15:17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

P

1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

Q

Psalms 105:40 The people asked, and he brought quails, and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.

R

Job 37:6 For he saith to the snow, Be thou on the earth; likewise to the small rain, and to the great rain of his strength.

S

Psalms 93:4 The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea.

T

Psalms 34:13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.

U

Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

V
Psalms 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

W

Psalms 86:11 Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.

X
Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Y

Matthew 11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Z

Psalms 119:139 My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words.

Love to all...

Sis. D.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

" In the Spotlight "





Joan Margaret (Martin) Cathey






Born on June 17, 1938 in McKinney, Texas to John and Alta Morris. She moved to Howe, Texas when she was 5 years old and that is where she went to school and grew up. She has 6 siblings 2 brothers and 4 sisters. She is the "baby" girl of the family but has a younger brother. She graduated High School after 13 years (she failed the first grade and began her working days). She worked at the cotton mill in Sherman, Texas where she met the man of her life.. Randy Martin. She just knew there was something different about him, he had the Holy Ghost and she wasn't raised in church. On her first date they went to a youth service and she was in amazement as the young people worshipped. She was not use to that.

She was married almost 23 years. The Lord blessed their home with 2 daughters.. Margaret Gail and Rebecca Kay. The Lord took her husband on to glory in 1982. Sis. Joan says that God has been good to her after his passing. He has supplied all of her needs and she knows he will not fail her now. During the later part of Randy's sickness the Lord gave them Rodney. He is a miracle which is another story. The Lord knew they couldn't handle 2 deaths so He took Randy and left her Rodney which is a blessing. In so many ways he is like his grandpa. Her youngest daughter Rebecca, has a daughter named Tiffany and a son named Joshua... they now live in Mississippi.

She moved to the Dallas area and just like the Lord she was put in contact with the Kegley family. In fact she moved right next door to them and the "kids" came over almost every evening. She received the Holy Ghost after they moved to Irving, she had been baptized already in Sherman. They raised their 2 girls in the UPC church in Irving. She later moved to Grand Prairie in 2001. She had looked at another church but just knew in her heart Grand Prairie was the place she would finally be.

" Childhood Memory "

Sis. Joan has lots of childhood memories... and would like to share one with us. It was winter time and the little creek, that ran by the farm was frozen over. They were skating and somehow she cut her leg... Her sister Venita set her on the bridge and put her headscarf around her leg and she had to sit there until they were done skating. They knew if she went to the house mama would make all of them come home. She had a loving home with parents who knew how to pray and as a family they did.

A little message from Sis. Joan:

" I love all of the people here and guess you are "stuck" with me until either I move back to Howe or the Lord takes me home. Thanks for letting me be a part of the church family and if I can ever do anything for anyone of you just let me know! "



God Bless all of you ladies..
Jessica M. Vazquez

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Chile Relleno's

Good Day to all... this recipe I tried this past Saturday and let me tell you it was what I called a "labor of love"! It is or can be time consuming, especially if you're trying it for the 1st time.
Everything needed is at your discretion...so plan accordingly :)

You'll need:


Poblano Peppers (I'd recommend small ones-not big ones)
Ground Beef or Turkey
Grated Cheese
Eggs (6 or more) (do this part after peppers are ready to be dipped)

Pepper preparation

1st-you take your peppers and toast on griddle or comal, you can press down on peppers as they get toasted..most of all try not to crack the peppers. try to toast as much as possible, I mean they can look black like their burn't. (Easier to peel)

2nd-Once peppers are toasted, wrap peppers in a towel put in a plastic bag so that peppers can steam.

3rd-once peppers have steamed take them one at a time and "peel" the skin off, the more toasted the easier to peel.

4th-cut pepper about half way starting from stem and clean out all seeds. Watch out for the vein in the pepper you pull it and it might tear the pepper. (This part was messy and had my Mom frustrated)


Once your done with the pepper and all it's preparation, take whatever your choice of stuffing is and stuff into pepper. Don't overstuff, you want it to close.


You then take some flour and gently rub it on the outside of the pepper, now you're ready for the egg batter!



Egg batter

First your going to only use egg "whites" and mix them with mixer to get "fluffy"
you want the batter to be stiff. (You'll know its good to go when you can turn your bowl over and it doesn't fall out!)
Once your done with your egg whites, "fold" the yellow into the whites.



Make sure your OIL is hot!!!!

(You can take a drop of batter and drop it in oil, IF it floats and stays on top, your oil is ready)




NOW your ready to fry the Peppers.

This is why I called it a "labor of love", alot of work! My husband loves Chili Relleno's and said they were good for our (my Mom and I)first time!

Enjoy and God bless!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Greetings To All In Christ On This Beautiful Day

Sorry that I am posting this late, but I really have had a busy day today...
I want to start off by thanking my Lord and Savior cause he has really been good to me. Have you ever heard of the saying, "When it rains , it pours."
Well first of all I know that many of you all know that my husband has been without a job for about six months. We are living off his unemployment checks barely making ends meet. Keep in mind we have our mortgage, utilities, car payment and etc. to pay. Well lately we have had a lot of blessings coming in to help us, all because we have trusted in our on time God. We have faithfully paid our tithes and given the last of what we have for offering. Not saying this to brag but to let all know that it is very important to pay our tithes and to give an offering. God will always provide if you just trust in him.

Another thing that I am thankful for is that Pastor Duvall baptized my Dad today. Some of you know that my Dad is a preacher. He has been preaching for more than 25 years. His church is nondenominational. He was baptized in the name of the father, son and the holy ghost. I had found this out about 3 or 4 years ago. I told my Dad that he had to be baptized in the name of Jesus. Keep in mind that I had given him scriptures to back up everything that I had told him. He flat out told me that he didn't want to talk about it because he didn't want to confuse me. I told him that he could not confuse me because I know what the bible says about Jesus name baptism. We left it at that. Well for the past few months my Dad has been going through some hard times. My Dad has had many people besides me tell him that he needs to be baptized in Jesus name. Out of the blue he calls Pastor Duvall. They had a conversation on Jesus name baptism. Pastor Duvall gave him scriptures just as I did. WALAH! He was baptized in Jesus name today August 25, 2009 at 10 o'clock in the morning. After this miracle was done he was praising and worshiping our wonderful Savior. As he was leaving the church he told Pastor Duvall that he might bring his whole church to baptize them all in Jesus name. This is what praying, fasting and reading your bible does. Now you know why I said, "When it rains, it pours."

Monday, August 24, 2009

A Clean Slate

Hello, All,

I'm a little late in posting today because it is a day of new beginnings and I have been swamped. We started off the morning with Convocation in my school district. This is a time when we all get together and reflect on the successes of last school year and roll out our goals and themes for a new year. As I sat in the convocation, my mind starting thinking of new beginnings.

One of the things I loved most about teaching in a college was that every 15 weeks my life began fresh. I got a new group of students, possibly new classes, etc. I like fresh starts. I looked around convocation this morning and saw teachers and principals who were very stressed out and tired at the end of last school but ready to go again with a fresh vision.

In our family, we take time every few months to self-reflect and have "fresh starts". Truly, I think the ability to self reflect is so important. I have watched people through the years who never take time to sit down and analyze their life and walk with God. They keep making the same mistakes over and over. This is not how God intended for us to live. The Word of God says, "Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23). He meant for us to have fresh starts but we have to have a desire to start again. How often do you reflect on your spiritual life, family life, ministry life and determine what needs to be adjusted?

Last fall we found our family was in a whirlwind. After about two months of each one of us constantly on the go, we sat down and determined we needed a new plan. We determined that we would eat dinner together every night no matter what, we determined that each child would have alone time with us. Fresh starts make us better.

As you enter into this school year, look at your family and make some fresh starts. Someone once said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Live God's way...His mercies are new every morning so that we can start over! Keep the successes of yesterday but turn the failures of yesterday into a new beginning.

Love to all!
Sis. D.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

" In The Spotlight "
















Cruz Casas

Born on May 3, 1948 in Thorndale, TX to Grorio and Lola Ortiz. Sis. Cruz comes from a small family... she has 1 brother and 3 sisters. Her brother is Raymond and her sisters are Teresa, Mary, and Stella. She also has 5 children.. 4 boys and only 1 girl.. Her sons are Jerry, David, Andrew and Victor. Her only daughter is Esther. She also has 7 wonderful grandchildren who she loves so very much!

Sis. Cruz grew up in Thorndale, TX lived there several years.. she worked out in the fields to help support her family... back then it was something that just had to be done to help the family... In 1968 she moved to Dallas, TX... where she has lived here since... she later met her husband. In 1992 she was happily married to Francisco Casas to whom she is now widowed.


" Favorite Memories "

In 1974 Sis. Cruz was invited from Sis. Lucy Gilbert to the First UPC Church in Grand Prairie. She attended this church and also made it her home church... she was involved in teaching Sunday School for the 2-3 year old children. It has been about seven years since she was teaching. She enjoyed every bit of her time spent with the little ones.

" Through the Years "

She is a faithful member of our church and is currently involved in the Outreach ministry, and enjoys the opportunity to witness to others about giving their lives to GOD. She is a witness to others at outreach and has been faithful to her ministry. She is also in charge of our Sunday morning breakfast crew. She cooks and cleans and makes sure that all of our children and our community kids have a good breakfast before sunday school. She is very motherly to all of the children. We appreciate everything she does in our church. She does great works for the Lord... we love you Sis. Cruz!!


Love you guys,
Jessica M. Vazquez

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Chicken Mole with Mexican Rice

1 pack of Chicken (Breast, legs, thighs or Whole-cut)

1 Jar of Mole (he always buys "Rogelio" Bueno)

1 Regular Jar of Peanut Butter

3-4 tbsp of Garlic Powder

3-4 tbsp of Onion Powder

Rice (your choice as to how much)

1 small can of Tomato Sauce


Chicken

Boil chicken til chicken meat is tender or falling off of bones, leave boiled water and chicken in pot.

Water should be about 1/2 inch just above the chicken.

Use tablespoon to scoop out Mole and drop scoop in water, Mole should be dissolved by you completely. (Should you find an easier way for this part of having the Mole dissolve, please let me know! I can let him know!)

Use tablespoon to scoop out Peanut Butter. (Peanut Butter dissolves pretty easily, and amount of Peanut Butter is up to you. He usually uses like 3/4 of the Jar)


Rice (you can cook the rice @ the same time you start boiling the chicken)

Take pan add oil then take Rice add your seasoning of choice.
Stir Rice around we want Rice to be "browned" a little.
Pour in tomato sauce - stir
Add water to rice, stir and then let cook for 10-20 minutes (if needed add water)
Rice should be soft when you bite into it

Then serve rice on plate top with chicken Mole!



P.S. My husband Frank (he) shared this recipe with me. He's really the cook of the family and ask those in the family that have tasted it they'll say it's really delicious!

E N J O Y!!!
Sis Jovita

Monday, August 17, 2009

Life at GPUPC

Hello, All!

Hope you all are having a great Monday. I thought I would post some pictures of different things that have been happening around the church this past month. We are a busy people. I found myself on Saturday night trying to remember what I needed to bring for a fundraiser or youth event on Sunday. I think it was the first time in about four months that we didn't have a pre or after-service event. :)

Block Party

Last Saturday was a great block party! Pastor said he thinks it's the best one we have had and I agree. It was wonderful! Thanks for all who came out to minister to the community.
























Upstairs Remodeling

As many of you know, we are out of space upstairs. We started an extensive remodeling project that will give us more room for every class. Thanks to all who have been working so hard!

















Fundraisers

We have had many fundraisers to send out youth to Youth Congress, kids to Camp, and now for the family life center. Whew! Fun at the church....




























As you are getting ready for your kids to go back to school, consider putting in a family devotional time each morning. Our national youth secretary was saying that growing up his family read a chapter of the Bible together each morning before leaving for school. He said by the time he graduated, he had heard the entire Word of God many times.

I am very much enjoying all of the blogs this month. Keep up the good work! "Heels in the Kitchen" has changed to September 1st. More to come....Secret Sisters also coming soon.

Love to all!
Sis. D.

Friday, August 14, 2009

" In The Spotlight "
















Hazel Inez Stubblefield

Born on June 7,1921 in Charleston, Texas to Paul and Maggie Slakey. She came from a very small family. She had 2 brothers and 2 sisters.


" Childhood Memories "

On March 17, 1936 her boyfriend named Olen Stubblefield went to her school and said "Let's go get married" and that is what they did without even telling her parents. Her friend from school went and told Hazel's mother that she left school to go get married. When they went back to her house her mother said "you could have at least told us that you were going to get married." They had 2 boys and then when the boys were 14 and 17 they had a daughter.

" Through the Years "

When the boys were very small her husband went into the army and served in WWII. In the early 50's they decided to move to Dallas for better jobs, and in 1953 they moved to Grand Prairie and built them a house. While trying to build their house they were also building the first Pentecostal church in Grand Prairie, They had been having services in a tent.

She worked for Erlangers Sewing Factory, which mainly made mens suits, until her little girl decided to throw a fit and beat her back to the car while trying to drop her off at the babysitters house. So she just went back home and called her job and told them she wouldn't be back. She then started sewing from her home and had several people that she sewed for. She made all of her own clothes and also made all of her daughters clothes, even the coats for winter, until her daughter became a teenager and decided she wanted bought clothes. Then when her granddaughter came along she made alot of her clothes. She has made lots of baby quilts and has given them away for baby shower gifts. She has even had people to want to buy them to save for when they had grandchildren before she got rid of all them and couldn't make anymore. She also served as a church secretary for several years.

She was a very good cook and had the best tea to drink ever. On suday mornings she would get up really early and cook her Sunday Dinner before church. When church was over there would always be someone coming over for dinner. Her boys were always telling their friends they could eat with them and their was always plenty. On Christmas and Thanksgiving if someone at church did not have family to be with they were always invited to dinner. Bro. Craig Warren would come by and bring his own glass just to get a glass of tea. It has been said that when you come thru Sis. Stubblefields back door it would say eat because there was always something sitting their to eat on. Her complaint now is that her daughter can not and will not cook or sew like she did. She was a second generation Pentecostal and now has great grandchildren that are 5th generation Pentecostals. She has 8 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren and one on the way, She has always loved the last one just as much as she did the first one and has helped raise most of them. Wonderful lady, loving and caring to everyone.

Love you guys,
Jessica M. Vazquez

Thursday, August 13, 2009

We Are Measured by Gods Pattern

God is a God of formulas and patterns. Everything accomplished in scripture was thru a pattern or a formula designed by God.
Example in the structure of the tabernacle and in today church is also design in a pattern for redemption and salvation today.

The book of Acts is the church of today. The book of Acts is where the church begins and where it stayed. Acts is where God laid out the plan of salvation. It is the complete story of redemption for humanity. The message is still as powerful as when it was written. When God measures me (notice I said God, not my friends) …. I say God Measure me according to the book of acts. The Acts message is not worn out. We are not a book of Mathew Church or a book of Mark Church we are the book of Acts church.
We can’t make it with good singing or good theological education or an organization or with charisma ….
Where are the sons of Levi with the power of unction flowing out of them?
We need to get to the place where we say I don’t care what people say or what you think. I want to be measured by the book of Acts. There is power in the Holy Ghost …We are standing in the greatest hour the apostolic church has ever seen. God is calling people to him. We are anointed by God! I pray God give me a hunger for apostolic anointing.
I thank God for our pastor and his wife they are the measures in my life. We all need a Godly measure influence in our lives. Someone who when you get confused or don’t know which way to go have the authority to direct us. We need to go to them and say measure me... check my prayer life keep me straight. Don’t be afraid of going to them. God has placed them in our lives to guide us. Our pastor is our Sheppard and he will help guide us threw. When you feel like giving up or throwing in the towel get in the word of God and get down on you knees and seek his face. Surround your self with Godly influence. Get involved in your church reach out to the lost souls. There are so many people that are hungry for the book of Acts experience. I have such a heavy burden to spread the good news to people in Grand Prairie.
I must tell people that there is a formula there is a pattern we must follow to get to heaven. We must follow the book of Acts.

Oh God hear us from heaven hear our cry touch our city we are your people crying out in desperation. God measure me….do I witness like I should? God do I Love Like I should? God do I give like I should? My prayer is Lord make me a vessel, Lord a vessel you can use. In Jesus Name.

Love you guys,
Jenna

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Good Morning!

Pray all is going well with ya'll! This recipe is very, very easy.
I for one, love the Alfredo taste! A co-worker and good friend brought it to a potluck and I just had to have the recipe.


You'll need:

Boneless chicken (your choice I usually get about 1 ½ - 2 pounds)

2- Jars of Alfredo Sauce ( I use Ragu Creamy Cheesy alfredo)

Italian Seasoning

Garlic Powder

Onion Powder

Pasta Noodles (your preference)

1tbsp Butter


Bring noodles to boil, add about a spoonful of butter and half a spoon of salt to the water before I add the noodles.

After chicken has boiled cut the chicken breast into small pieces or small cubes
you then take a pan add olive oil and let pan heat up, sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder to the chicken breast pieces and place them in the pan with olive oil. Stir til chicken has browned a little.

Drain your pasta, add your chicken and then your alfredo sauce, stir until the alfredo sauce is distributed evenly.

Put back on stovetop to heat a little more and it’s ready to serve.



Hope ya'll will enjoy it as much as I do!




Hope ya'll don't mind but I'm going to add another favorite email


As you know, we need food to feed our spiritual body, and
that food is the Word of God. It should help you plan
a 5 course meal, and it is titled........

Soul Food

I love the taste of T-bone steak,
Delicious every bite,
But there's nothing like the Word of God,
For my spiritual appetite.

The Word of God has milk and meat,
And even ice cream and cake.
Take a slice of the Bread of Life,
And coffee to keep us awake.

Open your Bible and turn to Psalms,
For David's famous buffet.
You can drink all the wine of the word you want,
And still feel fine the next day.

There's enough of the Word for everyone,
And no one has to cheat.
The Word of God is a smorgasbord,
So take all you are able to eat.

Let's have a little long suffering,
Job gives the recipe.
Patience is the main ingredient,
Self denial is the fee.

Wrap that up in temperance,
It may not make much sense,
Cover that with contentment,
Then add some joy for strength.

Let's have love for dessert,
Jesus made this dish,
Cream of joy and peace together,
Sift out all selfishness.

Add some deeds of righteousness,
Enough to make it sweet.
Humility is the frosting,
That makes the dish complete.

Or are you on a diet,
Cause the race seems hard to run.
For a weight losing menu,
Try Hebrews 12 and 1.

Are you suffering from malnutrition,
And don't know what to do?
Your spiritual growth! seems hindered,
Try I. Peter 2 and 2.

If when every time you battle,
the enemy always wins,
Try some Holy Ghost Protein,
And spiritual vitamins.

God's Word can feed millions,
And still have plenty left.
Because the Word of God is Soul Food,
Sent from the World's Greatest CHEF.


Until next time....and with much, much LOVE!!! :)

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

School Supply Update!

Here is an update I have received about the school supply donations.

Sis. D has purchased all the rulers, spiral notebooks, and glue.

Sis. Julie has purchased 5 boxes of crayons, 5 boxes of map pencils, 5 reams of Notebook paper, and 15 glue sticks.

So for all you late shoppers here is the list of what we still need:

25 boxes of crayons

25 reams of notebook paper

15 glue sticks

and since Sis. Julie was one of those rebellious ones who bought something that was not on the list we could use more map pencils.

Love You Guys!

Monday, August 10, 2009

Fruits of the Spirit

But the fruit of the spirit is...(Ga. 5:22)

LOVE: See that you love one another with a pure heart fervently. (I Peter 1:22)

JOY: God filled you with joy in believing. (John 17:13)

PEACE: Have peace with one another. (Mark 9:50) He is our peace. (Eph. 2:14)

LONG SUFFERING: Long suffering of Lord is salvation. (II Peter 3:15)

GENTLENESS: O beseech you by gentleness of Christ. (II Cor. 10:1)

GOODNESS: O how great is the goodness. (Ps. 31:19)

FAITH: The substance of things hoped for. (Heb. 11:1)

MEEKNESS: Walk in meekness. (Eph. 4:2)

TEMPERANCE: And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness. (II Peter 1:6)
Against such there is no law.

If we live in the spirit, let us also walk in the spirit. (Ga. 5:25)

Block Party School Supply Update!!!!!!

Praise God everyone! How exciting a Block Party is around the corner! I love to see what God does through our reaching out to our community. When I was at camp this summer with all the kiddos I looked around at our group and we had such a diverse group of kids I was so thankful and extremely happy to be a part of 1st UPC of Grand Prairie and the vision we have. Ok so here is an update on the school supply donations that we have received. Great Job everyone for donating I was able to create 29 packs of giveaways and 1 complete 3rd grade backpack stuffed with the entire list of 3rd grade supplies. So our goal is to have 50 to hand out but we can do better than that. I have 30 more sets of pencils so I say lets create 30 more sets and the sets include

Ruler
Glue
Glue stick
1 spiral wide ruled 70 sheet
1 3 punch wide ruled notebook paper
24 ct crayons

So I need 30 more of each of the above listed items. Let me know who can do what and I will do the rest.

If you want to be rebellious and donate other items I can work with that too :)

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Language of Apology

As promised last week, this week information about the language of apology. As those of you who have been married for awhile or had close relationships with others know, an apology can "make or break" a situation. Visit this Web site to take a quiz and find out your love language or language of apology.

The Five Languages of Apology

Expressing Regret

“Expressing Regret” is the Apology Language that zeroes in on emotional hurt. It is an admission of guilt and shame for causing pain to another person.



The Languages of Apology:
How to Experience Healing in All Your Relationships


For those who listen for “Expressing Regret” apologies, a simple “I’m sorry” is all they look for. There is no need for explanation or “pay back” provided the apology has truly come from the heart.

“Expressing Regret” is a powerful Apology Language because it gets right to the point. It doesn’t make excuses or attempt to deflect blame. Above all, “Expressing Regret” takes ownership of the wrong. For that reason, “Expressing Regret” is understood as a sincere commitment to repair and rebuild the relationship.

The “Expressing Regret” Apology Language speaks most clearly when the person offering the apology reflects sincerity not only verbally, but also through body language. Unflinching eye contact and a gentle, but firm touch are two ways that body language can underscore sincerity.

To learn more about this Apology Language, take a good look at Gary Chapman’s book, The Five Languages of Apology.

Accept Responsibility
It is very difficult for some people to admit that they’re wrong. It makes them doubt their self-worth, and no one likes to be portrayed as a failure. However, as adults, we must all admit that we are sinners and that we will make mistakes. We are going to make poor decisions that hurt our mates, and we are going to have to admit that we were wrong. We have to accept responsibility for our own failures.

For many individuals, all they want is to hear the words, “I am wrong.” If the apology neglects accepting responsibility for their actions, many partners will not feel as though the apology was meaningful and sincere. Many partners need to learn how to overcome their ego, the desire to not be viewed as a failure, and simply admit that their actions were wrong. For a mate who speaks this apology language, if an apology does not admit fault, it is not worth hearing. Being sincere in your apology means allowing yourself to be weak, and admitting that you make mistakes. Though this may be hard to do for some people, it makes a world of a difference to your partner who speaks this language.


Make Restitution
In our society, many people believe that wrong acts demand justice. The one who commits the crime should pay for their wrongdoing. A mate who speaks this love language feels the same way towards apologies. They believe that in order to be sincere, the person who is apologizing should justify their actions. The mate who’s been hurt simply wants to hear that their mate still loves them.

There are many effective ways to demonstrate sincerity in an apology. Each mate must learn the other’s love language in order to complete the act of restitution. Though some mates may feel a though all is forgotten with a bouquet of flowers, that may not necessarily work for all mates. Every mate should uncover what their partner’s main love language is (Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Physical Touch, and Receiving Gifts) and use that specific language in order to make restitutions in the most effective way.

For a mate whose primary apology language is making restitutions, no matter how often you say “I’m sorry”, or “I was wrong”, your mate will never find the apology sincere. You must show strong efforts for making amends. A genuine apology will be accompanied by the assurance that you still love your mate
and have a desire to right the wrong-doings committed.


Genuinely Repent
For some individuals, repentance is the convincing factor in an apology. Some mates will doubt the sincerity of an apology if it is not accompanied by their partner’s desire to modify their behavior to avoid the situation in the future.

It’s important to remember that all true repentance begins in the heart. A mate must feel poorly for hurting their loved one, and rely on God’s help in order to truly change. Admitting you are wrong creates vulnerability. It allows your mate to get a glimpse of your heart. The glimpse of true self is assurance that the apology was sincere.

One important aspect of genuinely repenting is verbalizing your desire to change. Your mate cannot read your mind. Though you may be trying to change inside, if you do not verbalize your desire to change to your mate, most likely they will still be hurt.

Many people have problems with repenting when they do not feel as though their actions were morally wrong. However, in a healthy relationship, we often make changes that have nothing to do with morality and everything to do with building a harmonious marriage.

It is also important to make a dedicated plan for change. Often apologies involving repentance fail because the person never set up steps of action to help ensure success. A person must first set goals for their change. After you create realistic goals, then you can start implementing a plan to change. Taking baby steps towards repentance instead of insisting on changing all at once will increase your chances of successfully changing your ways.

It is important to remember that change is hard. Constructive change does not mean we will immediately be successful. There will be highs and lows on the road to change. You must remember that with God’s help, anyone can change their ways if they are truly and genuinely ready to repent.

Request Forgiveness
In some relationships, a mate wants to hear their partner physically ask for forgiveness. They want assurance that their mate recognizes the need for forgiveness. By asking forgiveness for their actions, a partner is really asking their mate to still love them. Requesting forgiveness assures your mate that you want to see the relationship fully restored. It also proves to your mate that you are sincerely sorry for what you’ve done. It shows that you realize you’ve done something wrong. Requesting forgiveness also shows that you are willing to put the future of the relationship in the hands of the offended mate. You are leaving the final decision up to your partner – to forgive or not forgive.

Requesting forgiveness is not easy. It often leaves one vulnerable to the fear of rejection. Along with the fear of rejection is the fear of failing. Many people have a hard time seeking forgiveness because it means admitting that you have failed. The only way to overcome this fear is to recognize that it is very common amongst mankind. The commonality makes it okay to be a failure. It allows a stubborn mate to apologize to their partner and become a healthy individual.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that there is a difference between asking for forgiveness and DEMANDING forgiveness. When we demand forgiveness, we tend to forget the nature of forgiveness. Forgiveness is a choice the offended party is supposed to make. Demanding forgiveness takes away the sincerity of asking for it.

Remember not to treat forgiveness lightly. It is something to be cherished and appreciated. The act of forgiveness is hard on both ends – for the person who’s asking and for the person who’s accepting.