Author: Instructor

Behold, Here is My Servant

Lenten-Liturgical Guide for 2015
Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
“ Where Jesus Saves”
220 Auburn AV Atlanta, GA 30303
The Reverend John Foster, PhD
Sr. Pastor

From The Foster Family
February 2015
Dear Bethel AMEC Family:
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son.
It is my pleasure to greet and wish you God’s blessings during this season of Lent. Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial. It is the way that we prepare for the most holy event in history – the crucifixion of Jesus the Christ.
Let us receive Christ by making a personal sacrifice, unconditionally, through both prayer and fasting. I thank God that God is still King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but will have everlasting Life!
Sincerely,
Rev. John Foster, Ph.D.
Senior Pastor and the Foster Family

From Your Editor
Unconditional Love
“I believe...unconditional love will have the final word…”
Dr. Martin Luther King, 1964
Beloved,
Welcome to Lent 2015! One definition of unconditional is free.; any gift or gesture offered without restrictions, that has no small print or no red tape attached. It is something that simply involves no obligation on the part of the recipient.
Unconditional love is like that. It is given freely, without obligation on the recipient’s part. More than any other Being on earth, a man called Jesus Christ of Nazareth gave unconditional love to the world. He demonstrated what it means to love and do so unconditionally. It is from this theme that we will engage the sub-categories of faith, forgiveness, peace, patience, giving, worship, and suffering over the next 40 days. I thank God, as always, for divine inspiration, a visionary Sr. Pastor, and participating hearts who made this possible.
Using the Lenten-Liturgical Guide
This year, our devotional is a collective of testimonials from our church family and voices of significance from our culture and the Holy Bible. What a blessing it has been to witnesses these heartfelt reflections! Saturday entries (except for Holy Saturday) include prayer, biblical text and now, a song (in a musical score format for your convenience) in preparation of the next week. You may use these offerings in your own private time, Bible study, as well as in worship settings. Holy Week will have a special format ending in a prayer of thanksgiving. Please take seriously the journal entry of commitment found on the Ash Wednesday page. Here, you begin Lent with a promise to God and yourself regarding your fast. May you be richly and unconditionally blessed!
Monica

The Meaning of Lent
Lent is the holiest of seasons on the Christian calendar and our spiritual prelude to Resurrection Day. It represents the 40-day period of penitence between Ash Wednesday and Holy Saturday. Sundays are considered celebration days and not counted in the Lenten calendar. Lent affords us the opportunity to recommit our lives to Christ.
About Fasting: Fasting symbolizes our commitment and sacrifice before God; it fosters a natural cleansing of the body and spirit and aids in concerted prayer and supplication and an “emptying” of ourselves. Of course, we should take responsibility for medical and health concerns; not all of us can eliminate food, but all of us can eliminate some type of food that we favor. If not, then there is a habit (television, gossiping) that we can eliminate.
There are biblical examples about fasting, and they may be found throughout Scripture (including the words of The Christ) and in various contexts. Begin by reading Jesus’ teaching to the disciples in Matthew 17:18-21; then, the words of Anna in Luke 6:36-37.
( Except where noted, all scriptural text is from the NRSV)

February 18
Ashes and Unconditional Repentance
When Jesus came out of the wilderness to begin his ministry (see Matthew 4), he spoke first on repentance. What better way to begin this 40-day testimonial than to repent unconditionally, our sins before the Lord! Our ashes remind us that we do not stand worthy, but we are forever standing in grace.
A Prayer for Ash Wednesday
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Have mercy on me, a sinner. I repent, now, that I have done wrong in your sight. Yet, because you are a benevolent God, because you are a merciful God, I am forgiven. I accept your forgiveness and rejoice in the knowledge that I am saved.
Please help me to maintain a disciplined spirit as I fast in your holy name. Help me to pray faithfully each day, beyond my normal prayer time, and to include you when I arise, throughout the day, and when I close my eyes at bedtime. Thank you, Dearest Savior for loving me; thank you, Lord for loving me unconditionally.
My Commitment in Fasting for the next 40 days:
(I will refrain from)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Scripture to read:
Daniel 9:3 - Then I turned to the Lord God, to seek an answer by prayer and supplication with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession...Also, read Matthew 4:1-11 The 40-day fast of Jesus

Thursday February 19
Testimony of Bro. Stan Pritchett
God’s love is different from what we share with our spouses, families and friends. He doesn’t love us based on how good we make him feel or our emotions; his love for us is unconditional. You see, I’ve come to know that God is love. You and I were created to love and worship him unconditionally. He sacrificed his own Son for us! That is the kind of love he has, and is very hard to understand. God’s love for us transcends any human comprehension! Amen!

Friday February 20
Testimony of Bro. Floyd Baxter
Unconditional love is predicated on unconditional patience, and it requires a strong relationship with the Lord. The Lord gives me what I need to be a loving father, dedicated church leader and most of all, committed child of God who loves in the worst of times and best of times. He gives me what I need to love others despite how they may treat me; it is how we are all expected to love. We do this willingly as Jesus loved us!

Saturday February 21
Preparing for Coming Week
Our Scripture
“Your faith has made you whole.” (Matt. 9:22)
Our Prayer
Lord, so many times, you healed unconditionally in response to the unconditional faith of the sick. May we believe, and where we do not, help our unbelief.
Our Song

Monday, February 23
Unconditional Faith
When we strive for unconditional faith, it means that we truly lean on the Lord for our existence. Though we cannot see, we believe; though it is dark, we believe; though death is at our door, we still believe that God is in control.

Tuesday February 24
Testimony of Sis. Miriam Redding
The Lord blessed me to watch a young girl of 11 years blossom into a young woman of 21 years. It was during this time that I taught and counseled her. I laughed and cried with her, as she went through her difficult life. She died from AIDs at 21 with a faith that I had never before witnessed. Just before she died, she said to me, “Don’t mourn for me; I know that Jesus is waiting for me to come home.”
Wednesday February 25
Testimony of Bro. Bill Davis
Unconditional is a term that speaks to the character of God. Everything we have heard and read about God is complete and unequivocal. Therefore, we who seek to serve and worship Him must take on that characteristic in our faith. While still a child, I was taught to trust in God. One night during a confrontation between my mother and a neighbor, they threatened to kill each other. When I heard it, I began to pray that no one would get hurt. My faith that God would answer my prayer was unconditional. Shortly after I prayed, my mother returned and the confrontation ended. I thank God for the faith to call on Him in my distress. We who say we believe in God and in his son Jesus Christ, need a faith that is without limits. I pray that God grants us one that will not shrink, one that is total and unlimited in every way, and may we be willing to share the good news of our faith with others.

Thursday February 26
Testimony of the Dogs and Crumbs Woman
(see Matt. 15)
I am a Canaanite. To many, I am but a dog; not worth helping. No Jew has a reason to help me; but, one did. I was desperate. My daughter was possessed and with evil spirits. I had heard of this man called Jesus, and I found him. His followers wanted to push me away, but I persisted. When he hesitated, I told him, “ even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” He marveled at my faith, and at that moment, my daughter was healed!
Friday February 27
Testimony of David the Shepherd Boy, the King
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.6 surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Saturday February 28
Preparing for Coming -Week
Our Scripture
“Father, forgive them...” (Luke 23:34)
Our Prayer
Lord, you gave us the model prayer of forgiveness from the cross. Give us forgiving spirits and clean hearts. This we pray in your blessed name.
Our Song

Give me a clean heart so I may serve

Give me a clean heart

Monday, March 2
Unconditional Forgiveness
Having to forgive someone who has hurt you or who you think has (we do misunderstand one another) may not be easy to do, but it is the godly thing. To stay angry and carry grudges not only hurts the angry person, but also those innocent people who have to be around that person’s anger. Ask God to lead you away from an unforgiving, vindictive and bitter heart; because there, the Holy Spirit cannot be with you. Instead, invite the same Jesus who forgave his murderers from the cross, to show you the way to forgive others as you want to be forgiven.

Tuesday March 3
Testimony of Sis. Lois Youngblood
I have gone through some difficult times in my life, but losing my son was the hardest thing I have had to endure. I had to ask God to take the hatred and bitterness I felt toward the policemen who killed my son in an accident. I prayed earnestly, and the Lord answered my prayer. I forgave the police officer, because I knew I would be worse off than he had I not done so. My soul is at peace.
Wednesday March 4
Testimony of Hon. Nelson Mandela
“As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison.”

Thursday March 5
Testimony of the Paralytic
(see Matt. 9)
It was the strangest thing...here I was, paralyzed; I could not move, could not walk, could not do anything without someone assisting me. My friends came to me one day and said they were taking me to see this man from Nazareth who was healing people. I asked them, “how do you know he will heal me? They said, “we believe.” Well, when they finally got me to him, he looked at me, and said something I did not expect. “Your sins are forgiven.” That was what he said! Not, “you are healed” or “you can walk now,” but “your sins are forgiven.” I got up and walked, and I felt like a new man; not just on the outside, but on the inside. I was saved!
Friday March 6
Testimony of the Thief: a Paradise Experience
(see Luke 23)
No one, no one could be less deserving of forgiveness than the mean, despicable people who killed this kind, godly man. I could not believe my ears when I heard him say, “Father forgive them…”! I realized then, he must be the Messiah, the true Savior. I hung there suffering my just punishment, and I could feel life ebbing away; looking at him, I could hear his own racking, haggard breaths. There wasn’t much time. I thought, if he could forgive them, then surely, he could forgive me! I told my friend to shut up when I heard his insults; then, with my last breath, I turned to this man they called the King of the Jews…

Saturday March 7
Preparing for Coming -Week
Our Scripture
He will … keep (you) in perfect … peace (Is. 26:3 AMP)
Our Prayer
Lord, in the midst of a storm, when we grieve a loss, when we feel, we have nowhere to turn, be our Peace.
Our Song

Monday, March 9
Unconditional Peace

Unconditional peace represents a kind of inner substance that we cannot define. Perhaps Paul had the idea in mind, when he penned the phrase, “a peace that passes all understanding.” I cannot understand how she does it; she lost her child, but she seems so peaceful...he is unemployed, but he does not seem worried…As God’s children, maybe our best witness is when we have a peaceful countenance when everything around and in us is in chaos. Only the One who stilled the storm can give us this kind or peace! Claim it today.
Tuesday March 10
Testimony of The Reverend Joyce Young
God is always near even when we can't feel his presence. His promise is true that he never leaves us nor forsakes us. I am so glad that God gives peace in the midst of our storm and that we can count on God's unchanging hand to touch, support, guide and heal us unconditionally. Our trust and faith ignites God's mercy and grace letting us know that all is well in spite of what we see. God is a way maker; that gives me peace.
Wednesday March 11
Testimony of The Reverend Charmain Purvis
So many times we are in a situation where things are out of our control. We feel pressed on every side. When a family member’s life was in the balance again, my first response was the overwhelming desire to try to fix the situation. However, I experience God’s unconditional peace, when there are no answers, there is not enough time, or a means to fix it. So I pray, not always initially and at times don’t even know what to pray for…and the Holy Spirit makes intercession for me. Ultimately, there is an overarching presence of God’s unconditional peace.

Thursday March 12
Testimony of Horatio Spafford
(the composer of “When Peace like a River”)
In November 22, 1873, after sending my wife and children ahead of me on holiday, I received devastating news. While crossing the Atlantic on the steamship Ville du Havre, they were struck by another vessel; 226 people lost their lives, including all four of my beautiful daughters. Only my wife, Anna survived the tragedy. “Saved alone,” she telegraphed, “saved alone.” In my heartbreak, God sent me comfort and the divinely inspired words, “It is well with my soul.” I wrote them and peace, like a river, flooded my soul!
Friday March 13
Testimony of Sis. Hagar the Maidservant
(see Gen. 16, 21)
“God sees you, there.” I cannot think of any words before or since that moment that have given me more peace. In the middle of a wilderness, with no hope and angry from rejection, I knew I was lost. I felt so hopeless. It was when the angel of the Lord came to me, however, that I knew all would be well. I was in this position, not once, but twice. It is not easy taking orders from a woman who despises you after forcing you to sleep with her husband! My people are a proud, strong nation, and I found it hard to back down from my mistress. In the end, though, I knew only God would grant me safe passage and freedom. I took my son, and we found water. At that moment, we also found peace.

Saturday March 14
Preparing for Coming -Week
Our Scripture
“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away...” (Job 1:212b)
Our Prayer
Lord, in a microwave, high-tech society, give us the patience to wait on you; to listen to you, to pray to you, to sit with you, to witness for you — this is our prayer.
Our Song

Monday, March 16
Unconditional Patience
Patience is not a trait we all share. Perhaps the saying, “patience of Job” stemmed from the fact that some people are able to endure more than others. Nevertheless, a prayer to God consistently and with sincerity will bring patience into your heart. Pray today, that God gives you a receptive spirit to wait on him; meanwhile, know all is well!
Tuesday March 17
Testimony of Sis. Azira Hill
All my life I wanted to be a health professional; God granted my dream. Caring for my husband was a privilege, a learning and growing experience, and I got better understanding of "TLC" ( tender loving care). I was able to execute it in the practice of my profession, by the grace of God which was manifested through the joy, patience, energy and satisfaction I had daily. I received so much more than I gave; to God be the glory!
Wednesday March 18
Testimony of Preacher Jarena Lee
I knew God had called me to preach, but it was around 1810, and the AME Church was not having a woman preacher in the pulpit! I preached anyway. When I spoke with Bishop Allen he turned me down; would not license me. I preached anyway. It was a long, lonely journey. Finally, some eight years later, when the Holy Spirit was so full within me, I was able to preach a powerful word. The Lord spoke through me, and to Bishop Allen who was there in the congregation. He changed his mind; soon after, I became the first woman licensed to preach in this Zion. All praises to our God and King!

Thursday March 19
Testimony of Dr. Rosa Baxter
There is a thin line between unconditional love and patience. As a mother, loving unconditionally surpasses all ordinary forms of love and takes us to another place. When you are challenged with a child that you love dearly, yet are not sure if you can provide what they actually need rather than what they think they want, it is a true test. It means you have to love them in spite of themselves — it is that “tough love” that comes with a price. I know that only with unconditional patience, can I give of myself in this way.
Friday March 20
Testimony of Sis. Hannah
(see I Samuel)
Have you ever had a prophet or servant of God laugh at you or doubt you when you were deeply sincere and at your lowest moment? Have you ever prayed and prayed until you thought you had nothing else to give, until your very soul almost died? I did! I was barren, and poured out my heart before the Lord, just to have a respected leader in the church to accuse me of being drunk! I have never been so embarrassed in my life. It was like a knife in my heart, but I stayed on my knees and waited for God to answer. I knew if I was to have faith, it meant also to be patient without reservation. My patience was not in vain, for Samuel was born to me. Hallelujah!

Saturday March 21
Preparing for Coming -Week
Our Scripture
Give and it will be given you... (Luke 6:36a)
Our Prayer
Christ Jesus, giving of ourselves is what you require. Our money, our gifts, our talents, and our time are yours. May we work to have a more giving spirit, and not just during Lent, but in all that we do!
Our Song

Monday, March 23
Unconditional Giving
Giving is an opportunity to make a difference — a meaningful difference in the lives of others and in the life of the Church. Money is not the only form of giving and is probably the least life-changing gift. With our hands, we can tidy a room, sign to a person who is deaf or open a welcoming door; with our pens we can write inspiring and uplifting messages; with our voices we can preach a soul-stirring sermon, pray a convicting prayer, or sing an alleluia! To give of ourselves without any expectation of reward is the kind of giving that lasts.
Tuesday March 24
Testimony of Bro. Ed Jones
Tithing represents unconditional giving in its truest form. When I tithe, I’m trusting in the Lord for his direction, and I have seen evidence of that all through my life. God answers my call; he blesses me. I also know that every blessing that does come my way, is not for me. I must pass it on.
Wednesday March 25
Testimony of the Reverend M. Gwen Senatle
In my life, I have learned that unconditional giving is an act of sharing and expecting nothing in return. I do not worry about how and when the gift is going to be used. If I give cash to the homeless person, I do not worry if he/she is going to bu beer or liquor. Of course, the greatest example of unconditional giving is God’s giving his only begotten Son while we were yet sinners!

Thursday March 26
Testimony of the First Christians
(see Acts 4)
We have just prayed and been filled with the Holy Spirit! Hallelujah! The disciples of Jesus of Nazareth are teaching us to be as one. As on other occasions, we have come here together and are now on one accord. There is so much power in unity! We have prayed together, and now we have given together. We gladly lay our offerings at the feet of Peter and others so that the church’s work can continue. We do it without hesitation an in a spirit of unconditional sharing. We know now, that these possessions are not our own, but the Lord’s.
Friday March 27

Testimony of the Widow
(fr. Mark 12, Luke 21)
Here I am in front of all of these influential leaders. The Sanhedrin probably think very little of me. The priests know I only have this coin to give. I place my coin in the basket, and then...there! A man is smiling at me. He is saying something to his group of friends. There is something special about him. His eyes look on me with admiration! Rather than pity, he seems to offer acceptance. I walk away feeling that something has happened just now. It is something that I cannot explain, but I know I have been changed forever.

Saturday March 28
Our Scripture
Worship the Father in spirit and truth… (John 4:23a)
Our Prayer
O Lord, we worship you, in spirit and in truth, because you are indeed a worthy God, you are our Deliverer, our Savior, our Healer, our All.
Our Song

Monday, March 30
HOLY WEEK
(Monday through Maundy Thursday)
Unconditional Worship
Worship is what God created us for!!! Isn’t it a wonderful reality that God made all of creation for worship? That means we do not have a choice, whatever our attitude, our circumstances, our “ups” and “downs” of the day. I find that whatever situation I am in, when I turn my attention to God and not myself…worship blesses me even in my present reality!!! OUR PURPOSE IS TO WORSHIP THE MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH!!! So let us treat worship with the highest reverence. Worship GOD in God’s sanctuary. Worship God in our daily walk. Worship God because God is worthy. With all our heart, mind and soul, LET US WORSHIP THE EVERLASTING GOD!!!
Tuesday March 31
Testimony of Bro. Aaron Richards
Praise that I give up to the Lord as I sing is the sole reasoning for my joy and happiness. His grace and mercy has protected my family and has richly anointed us to serve and proclaim His word to His children. Through prayer, praise and exaltation, God has blessed me with a 4.03 GPA for my first semester in college. Recognizing His presence in my life, has afforded me His guidance and love. I know trusting in God always, ensures His rich blessings for me.
Wednesday April 1
Testimony of Sis. Rose Schofield
When I worship through signing, I am not focusing on the people or my environment. I’m listening to God and what he wants me to do through my hands. I trust him unconditionally to lead me into worship so that I will inspire and help others. Once, when I signed for a deaf Brother, I told him I was not proficient, but he smiled and said, ”It’s OK.” Just give yourself over to the Lord unconditionally, and it will be OK.

Maundy Thursday April 2
Unconditional Suffering: Testimony of Sis. Sylvia McRae
In May of 2004, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. I was shocked, devastated and fearful at first; and all I did was cry and pray. I thought Lord, is this the end for me? What am I going to do? Then a small voice spoke and said, “Sylvia stop crying, this is not your battle.” I began to pray and ask the Lord for a divine healing. I decided to have a lumpectomy, which involved chemotherapy and radiation and five years of chemotherapy medication through a daily pill. This was my daily prayer that brought me through my suffering: “Bless the Lord, O my Soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgives all your iniquity who heals all your diseases...who crowns you with love and mercy” (Psalm 103:2-4). All my diseases are healed! In submission, I have come through. My life is preserved and strong in God! I confess this day that I am healed!

April 3
Unconditional Suffering
The Testimony of Mary, Mother of Jesus
As I gazed mournfully up at my oldest child, watching his labored, painful breaths and the agony in his eyes, I thought back to when he was born. He was such a sweet baby! I knew he was bound for greatness, but I did not know the horrifying, egregious price he would pay. I did not know that he would be beaten mercilessly and mocked so; that his body would be torn to shreds and that he would cry out to his heavenly Father in such despair. I was so distraught for him; if only I could ease his suffering! As tears flowed freely down my face, I saw him look down at us. I heard him tell John to take care of me. My dearest Lord! In the midst of your own brutal punishment, you still think of others. I never loved my son more than at that moment. Jesus of Nazareth showed the world that day what it meant to truly love. He showed us how to give our all without thought of the consequences. It was a kind of love that came through the sacrifice of his life on that cross. It was unbelievable; it was unimaginable; it was unconditional.

Holy Saturday April 4
Our Scripture
“He is not here; he has risen as he said...”(Matt 28:6)
(Read your favorite Resurrection Narrative)
Our Prayer of Thanksgiving
As we come to the end of our Lenten journey, we rejoice that our renewed Resurrection journey is just beginning. We thank you, Lord! We thank you, and we have faith in our everlasting Savior; we are forgiven as we forgive others; we are at peace in the midst of every storm; we are filled with a patient spirit as we wait on our breakthrough; we give as it has been given to us; we worship with our hands raised and hearts humbled; we are willing to suffer in the name of Jesus; and we do it all, UNCONDITIONALLY.
And so it is.

Unconditional
is a publication of the
Department of Christian Education Ministries
Big Bethel AMEC Atlanta, GA
All Rights Reserved, © Copyright, February 2015
404 827-9711 www.bigbethelame.org
ALL TEXT TAKEN FROM NRSV UNLESS NOTED
John Foster, PhD, Senior Pastor
Monica C. Jones, PhD, Editor
(Also, contributors for Monday & other meditations)
Contributors
Dr. Rosa Baxter
Bro. Floyd Baxter
Bro. Bill Davis
Sis. Azira Hill
Bro. Ed Jones
Sis. Sylvia McRae
Dr. Stanly Pritchett
The Reverend Charmain Purvis
Sis. Miriam Redding
Bro. Aaron Richards
Sis. Rose Schofield
The Reverend M. Gwendoline Senatle
Sis. lois Youngblood
The Reverend Joyce Young

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