Monday, March 31, 2008

Reflections on Turning 50

Wow, I have so much that I want to say, and so little time in which to say it! We’re leaving for Korea early tomorrow morning and I’ve got a lot to do today to get ready for the trip…haven’t packed or anything…but if I find some time later today I’ll write a little more.

But I do want to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to everyone for the incredible birthday gifts, cards, money, checks, etc. Your generosity is very humbling and greatly appreciated!

All day yesterday was an amazing day in my life. I loved every part of the service…the worship (especially Let the River Run)…the video birthday greetings from Dr. Mark Chironna, Pastors Carey and Vannie Harrell, Bishop Johnathan Alvarado, Pastor Jentezen Franklin, and my son Jared, who is in Prague...the kids’ production (sort of a mini-Alvin Ailey dance troupe)...Taps, who was so anointed (when I first heard that he was going to dance to Now Behold the Lamb, I didn’t think that it was going to work, but as soon as he started, I totally got it, and it really ministered to me...and it was also great to celebrate with the other 1958 babies.

Judah’s rap and song just totally blew me away. In that one piece he completely captured every part of the message that I preach, and then combined it with a great cover of a 60’s classic (What the World Needs Now), and then ended with the Beatles (All You Need is Love)! Are you kidding me? That’s as good as it gets! And Jonah’s accompanying video translated it and communicated it to perfection (and he slammed on the drums). Dish and Dane (Daniel) were awesome, also, in a very Jimi Hendrix kind of way. I loved it, and was so proud of my boys. And my baby girl made me cry…the things she said are what every dad dreams of hearing his kids say.

And what can I say about Curtis’ “It’s a Wonderful Life” video? It may quite possibly be the greatest gift that I have ever received. I can’t even talk about it yet.

And my Mom was great, and Dad threw down with his too cool, old school preaching style. He did exactly what I wanted him to do.

And Debye was her usual gorgeous and wonderful self. She did a great job pulling all of my birthday celebration together. I loved every part of the service, and absolutely realize how blesed I am!

She and I will be out of the country tomorrow through Saturday. Assuming that everything goes according to schedule, I plan on being back in the pulpit (I need a better, less-religious-sounding term for preaching!) for the April 6th, 10AM service.

I’m taking my laptop with me, but it’s quite likely that I won’t be able to moderate the blog while I’m in Asia. So, if you want to post something, go ahead and send it…just know that you probably won’t see your contribution online until sometime late next Sunday afternoon. You can check back later in the week to see if I was able to post anything from over there.

In case you don't know, I’m turning 50 on Thursday, and I’ll be speaking that day at a leadership conference in Seoul.

Thanks for your beautiful feedback, and thanks again for giving me such a memorable birthday.

I really and truly love you all!

38 comments:

el ojo y la luz said...

Thanks for taking the time to post this message before you left. You will be missed, along with all of the other bloggers, this week. I know that you will be a blessing in Korea and you will be blessed as well. "See" you in April.

el ojo y la luz said...

I didn't write this but I thought it was worth sharing. Have a blessed day!


Dancing With God

When I meditated on the word Guidance, I kept seeing 'dance' at the end of the word. I remember reading that doing God's will is a lot like dancing. When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn't flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky. When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead, both bodies begin to flow with the music. One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing Lightly in one direction or another. It's as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other.

My eyes drew back to the word Guidance. When I saw 'G': I thought of God, followed by 'U' and 'I'. 'God, 'U' and 'I' dance.' God, you, and I dance.

As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust that I would get guidance about my life. Once again, I became willing to let God lead.

My prayer for you today is that God's blessings and mercies are upon you on this day and everyday. May you abide in God, as God abides in you. Dance together with God, trusting God to lead And to guide you through each season of your life.

This prayer is powerful and there is nothing attached. Interceding in prayer is one of the best gifts we can receive. There is no cost but a lot of rewards.

So let's continue to pray for one another. And I Hope You Dance!

Anonymous said...

Good morning beloved Universe!

Bish, your birthday celebration was a blast!

Loved the music & watching the kids while they sang and danced to "Love Train" and "Power of Love". Great energy!

Also loved, "Let the River Run", particularly the line, "let all the dreamers wake the nations!"

Ditto to everything else you appreciated. (Chandra's song gave me goose bumps!)

And for all the "1958 birthday babies", this may sound weird, (but whatever, I can't see you grimacing & you can't see me shrugging my shoulders - heh) but when you set your hula hoops against the stage, it sooo reminded me of the Olympic rings. (rubbing my arms again)

Can't believe the disco ball & "The Hustle" - too fun!

Your mom's tribute was blutimus. I remember a Mother's Day sermon she delivered @ the other sanctuary. Particularly, a teaching about a life lived between the dots and dashes. (poignant!)

I thoroughly enjoyed Pastor Swilley's sermon, "Is there a servant in the house?" (alright, now, I've gotta get a sweater)

Well! Well! Well! "A well is a center of activity". Loved that! When he mentioned the prodigal son eating husks with the swine, it reminded me of the words, "corn of heaven".

And even that's good news. Because it seems to complete Mark 4:26 (how a man cast seed into the ground, the progressive growth of it and then the harvest) The son was eating husks, but it was still from faith seed his father sowed. (that too out there?)

Enjoyed the explanation of PDA (been there - done that! And when it concerns prayer, it seems like I'm often anticipating the next orders.)

There's been so many references to "city set on a hill" lately. En route to service yesterday, I wondered about it. Specifically, like... how can an entire city be set on a hill? Is that like a really small city? Or a really big hill?

So, I'm arguing with myself about it, because I reasoned that Jesus went up to mountain tops. What's it all mean, I wonder.

If awareness is a hallmark of service, I've gotta work on this. (aaaaack - Lord, You know)

When you go to Korea, I hope you enjoy some yaki mondu (like a wonton or egg roll, only different - heh), bulgogi (marinated beef w/green onions) and kalbi (Korean barbecue). They're some of my family's favs - a little really good.

Safe passage to, from and in between. We'll miss you; will be out of the state when you return but hope to stream.

famman87 said...

Bish,

Great party yesterday!!! Always is, but it was an honor to honor you. Have a great trip. My prayers are with you... Will miss you,and will miss this too. It's amazing how very important something can become to someone in a very short period of time.
See you Sunday!

vaughn said...

Bishop, as a baby boomer born in 1958, I want you to know that I felt celebrated along with you. What a beautiful time of refreshing...I was amazed and very joyful at your BD celebration on yesterday. The Hula hoop was a hoot. I have to practice but I decided not to try in from of 1,000's of folks. Anyway...

Rev daddy threw down in the spirit. He said a lot of things, and the spiritual things with years of wisdom and understanding that he imparted to us was very timely and deep. I agree that the call to body as far as stirring up the gifts was very timely exhortation. We have many gifts and we can do so much more...most of us! I dream as your father dreams, that is for the power that worketh in "US" to be so infused by the Holy Spirit that people will work in our doors and get healed, delivered, filled in the holy ghost, set free and fired up!

It is awesome how the holy spirits works in my life, in all of our lives, in that the whole topic of serving has been in my conversations and events this past week. Bishop, in deed you are a general and you are a gift to the body and you receive us as gifts and that is spiritually discerned as well as evident in our life (CITN).

Yesterday I came to the stage area where you were receiving gifts and was really happy when I saw the congregation (the flock) flocking over you. I stood back and desired to continue to be an who God says I am, watchful and prayerful..

Well deserved. You have taught us to be celebrated as well as to celebrate. Just know that God knew exactly who was suppose to be there and what a beautiful outpouring of love to you by the people.

I can tell you that there was great joy exchanged on yesterday. Your daughter Christina (I have a Christina), also made me think and cry as I can only imagine how proud you must be of her "get it factor" to explain to us what she thought your true success was...to really love! Wow that is it..love never fails, never.

What a beautiful demonstration of God in you, to you and through you!

You have inspired me to create a blog pertaining to some ministry I do in the body. I am a student of alternative health such as herbs and supplements and I have assisted many in the body with information and I get a continual comment of how the recipients are blessed so I thought I would share some information the Lord has imparted to me.

Also, I have been blessed with the list of non-profits in the Covington area that assist it's citizens with food, rental assistance, clothes and with your blessings, I would like to share that on my blog. I am however, having a challenge with knowing how to accept or reject my comments although they are coming to my email! Could you assist me with that since you are an experienced blog moderator at this point!

Oh, I know the blog has kinks, but I already gave it to people on my personal email list so the comments are coming!

I hope you have time...in regards to your trip but if not..I understand. I am not sure if this is appropriate for you to publish so I will leave my blog address/yveinthenow.blogspot.com , my email address is vaughevan@gmail.com but the blog itself is Garden of Yve. By the way they say imitation is the highest form of flattery. I hope you receive the gift of flattery today!

We will pray (the watchmen for you for your trip in Seoul - how very exciting! We will pray in the spirit...unless you request something different! I pick up excitement in the spirit - I believe something phenomenal will happen there because you showed up! Peace and blessings, Yvonne (my pen name is vaughevan, for your information only)

I would be proud to have you as a teammember (I think that is what it is called) at your discretion and approval of course. Thank you

Anonymous said...

Since you're s'posed to be packing for the trip, thought I'd sneak back over here & share those great words Pastor Swilley read yesterday. In case somebody missed them:

I am a part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit Power, The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, or back away.

My past is redeemed, my present makes sense. My future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotion, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean on His Presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer and labor by power

My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, by companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, preached up, for the cause of Christ.

I am a disciple of Jesus!

I must go 'til He comes, give 'til I drop, preach 'til all know, and work 'til He stops me. And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me; my banner will be clear.


* Also, I loved Pastor Swilley's succinct formula for prayer.

"JESUS!"

Anonymous said...

Hey Bishop

Now that's what a party should be.
That film clip that Curtis did was priceless.
Judah and Jonah Both are very talented and I know how proud you are of them. The song and the video clip were awesome.
Man can your father bring a message or what.
The whole day was great.
You are so blessed to still have your parents and it is an honor to see them in service.
What I guess I'm teying to say is
Happy Birthday and may you have many more to come.
Have a safe trip.
See ya Sunday For The River that will flow through you.

Scribe said...

Good Morning FAMILY:

Bishop, once again, HAPPY BIRTHDAY and your celebration was spectacular. Glad that I got to be a part of through the Cyber Stream since I was unable to be ITB. Praying for the safety and traveling mercies of you and Pastor Debye on your trip to / in / from Korea.

Here is my contribution / gift to everyone for the day...

Written:
Friday- 31 MARCH 2006 @ 1100 Hours

"This is an awesome day to abide in ME- Jehovah GOD as I am with you always, even to the ends of the earth. I am in control and I have designed ALL THINGS to work together for good in your life. Those that I have joined together in Spirit and in TRUTH, let no man (person), place, or thing put asunder. This is your season for the miraculous and phenomenal to break forth suddenly and immediately- RIGHT NOW! So, rejoice as I- your Father in heaven load you down with precious gifts and spectacular ammenities that you never expected, nor anticipated. AMEN

Because I alone am the Lord of Hosts and never sleep nor slumber, I grant thee those very heathens as your inheritance, whereas the wealth of the wicked is TRANSFERRED DIRECTLY to you without fail or hesitation. Praise Me- the Great JEHOVAH GOD all the more, simply because I alone am your Father in Heaven and inhabit your praises. AMEN.

Oh, render unto Me- the Ultimate Thanksgiving, for restoring back to you everything that the enemy attempted to rob you of. There are no more delays- for the breakthroughs are breaking out and pouring forth RIGHT NOW. This is your day for delightful tokens of love and commitments of the heart. Praise ME- the Great JEHOVAH GOD all the more!

Hallelujah! AMEN.

DoubleBack Alley said...

Sahib,

Reflect on bro!! If 50 is the new 30, then what is 30? Must the new 10 from the way I see those wiseacres act. Grumpy today cause I have been jonesing for the blog for two days.

Hope your birthday was/is everything you hoped. Hoped you had something besides the church thing. Can't imagine your friends not doing something for you. Hopefully, it was a surprise party. I love to participate in those.

Got to see the service. The AV work you guys do is unbelievable. You sons and daughter really honored you. Mom Swilley is hot (can I say that?). Dad Swilley is heat. Debbie Swilley is incandescent. Curtis is off the charts, dude. That superimposing of your face over George Bailey's really got me.

Hope all goes well in Korea. Not sure of the puropse, but I am sure I will be made aware at the appropriate time. God Speed my brother.

Love you Heart and Seoul.

Ain't God Good?

Sheri Travis said...

Bishop,
Whaty an awesome celebration. I loved every single second of it. I felt like I was about to take out running down the aisles when Cindy sang Let the River Run. I agree w/ all the things the other bloggers have already written. I especially loved the salute by your children. I love Judah and Jonah video and song. They are so amazing. I cried by Christina's words. What a Honor. Everyone of us who love you and call you spiritual father could have given you a tribute, but for your Immediate family to Honor you in the way they did.My God, My God!!! My heart burst w/ joy. You and Pastor Debye are sooo real and awesome . You are simply the most georgeous couple ever!!!! I loved when you were standing behind her on the stage w/ your arms wrapped around her. That was actually one of my favorite parts. Everytime I reflect over the service, I have more oh yeah I forgot how much I loved that one. Sophia is like the cutest thing ever knife and fork eat her up!!!!!
We will be praying non stop for you and Pastor Debye. Can't wait to hear more about it Sunday!In my spirit I feel this is HUGE! I will miss you blogging, I'm still on this thing more than a person should b allowed. LOL. Gets me through Weds-Sat.
Much love and prayers!!!

PattiL007 said...

Amazing celebration, Bishop and a VERY Happy Birthday to you. I agree with all I heard here regarding the service...Dad did SO throw down and when he said that when we say "JESUS" All of heaven waits to see what we will do with that powerful name...well...I join Izumi...someone get me a sweater! It was really wonderful...all of it and I hope it was as satisfying for you as it was for us. We do love you so, Bish, you and your family...what a blessing(s)! Thank you, God, for Bishop, for Bishop's family, and for ALL OF CITN and everyone connected to it in any way! WOW!

I, too, have a great deal of excitement in my spirit for the Korea trip...I have no idea why or what for because you have not been specific with us, but it feels like a "full circle moment" of some sort and all of creation is sort of holding our collective breath to see what becomes of the whole adventure...does anyone get that or is it just me?

Regardless, our thoughts and prayers travel with you as does all the favor of God Almighty! You Go, BISHOP! (And Happy Birthday in Korea and in every language and nation!)

PattiL007 said...

Oh, and I totally agree with Creme--one of my fave happenings was when you had your arms wrapped around your beautiful bride. You are both such terrific examples for us all--the love you have/exude for God and for each other is inspirational and joyous. We are so blessed!!! Thank you for sharing with us and showing us THE WAY in all aspects!!! Happy landings!

Donald said...

I just noticed that you mentioned you would be turning 50 this week. Gee! That's the first I'd heard about that. Any of you other folks happen to hear anything about that?
I mean, I'm not saying that it's been mentioned before but when you get off the plane at the airport in Korea (pronounced Ko-rear in Mississippi) the airport workers will probably even know it.
I can hear it now, "Ah-h-h Happre Birtday to roo!" Oh my God, I can't believe that I just said that. That is as politically incorrect as I have been in a long time. I am sorry to all my Asian brothers and sisters. I just couldn't help it. Please forgive me I didn't mean anything by it, it was a moment of weakness.
On another note, I just thought of something my son told me while he was home for spring break that will show that the gospel that you preach does make changes in people's lives. I did not realize how much fear I and the church had put on him, but he said that when he was a kid that the most terrifying part of his day was when he was in school and had to write the word "assignment". He said he was always afraid that the Lord would come back after he had written the second "s" and before he had written the "i" and he would be sent to hell for having written a "cuss" word on his paper. He was serious. But, I'll assure you that he is very very much over that fear now.
Well I guess it's obvious that I'm having an easy day. Be blessed on your trip Bishop and Pastor Debye.

el ojo y la luz said...

Mystic, you are so right. It was inspirational watching Bishop and P. Debye holding one another. There was even a brief exchange and they giggled and smiled. Seeing your parents(Bishop and P.Debye) happy, in love, serving GOD and their neighbors, supporting and celebrating each other, enriches your life. We have the best spiritual parents and grandparents in the world. Bishop and Pastor Debye, Dad and Mom Swilley, and Bo and Shirley Flanders are awesome.

famman87 said...

Since you haven't left yet, I now have a bit more time to expound... Ready or not, here I come... I said this earlier, but I don't feel it was emphatic enough

WHAT A PAR-TAY!!!!!!!!!

(feel better about it now)

Every second was a true joy to be in.Every detail perfect. P.Debye rocks!!!

I said something the other day about you not doing it all by yourself, and I really thought about that even more yesterday, as I saw your family honoring you in such a way, and knowing how much they all speak into my family constantly. PD to my wife and myself. I get to see personally J & J speak/sing into my kids every week. Your love for them and them for you is sooooooo evident in everything they do.

Proof that the apple don't fall far all over the place yesterday...

Dude,your Dad kicks it!!( and I say Dude in only the most respectful way. I'm hitting a comfort zone here on the blog. If it's too much please put me in my place...)

Hope his message hit home to some folks. Far to few doing what needs to be done.

Happy e-lated ( as opposed to belated??)B-day. Hope they give you some cake and ice cream over there.

Iz, not to far out there at all. Kinda thought about that myself,having been there. We seem to be a very positive thinking lot here at CITN/BITN, now don't we?

All the mystery about this Korea thing makes me wonder... I've heard a number of phophesies concerning something happening with Bish and CITN that's never been done before...kinda makes me go-hmmmmmmm(picture an Arsenio-like finger on my chin)...Feelin' what some other folks are feelin'. Can't wait to get the whole skinny.

TTFN. Hope to still be hearin'from y'all, at least in the Spirit, this week.

Iris said...

Bishop, I truly enjoyed every part of yesterday’s celebration… As your family honored you… and paid tribute to you… I honor you… you are my Bishop… Pastor… Spiritual Father… and friend… You have touched my life in so many ways… Thank you… Thank you… Thank you… and HAPPY BIRTHDAY again… You are celebrated…

I also wanted to say to you… this trip to South Korea is an act of God… He is all over this… He has place his hand on you and anointed you to join hands with other influential world leaders to bring about a maturing of the mindset of God… the voices spoken this week will cause a ripple effect that will shake the nations to experience a true transformation from a “religious mind set”… to the unveiling of the true unadulterated God… What would take twenty to a hundred years to alter will come to pass in a NOW moment because of the words spoken this week by all who attend…

Because of what will happen this week… there will be a shift in the Spirit… This week will be a strong voice that influences all nations and religions… This week will change the course of history in the way people see God… There will be books written about this event and will be published around the world in many different languages… The voice of the Holy Spirit will declare that all are welcome at the feet of Christ… Heads will turn and become aware of the one God proclaims “All come!!!”…

Bishop… you are an ambassador of Heaven… one who is sent to proclaim NOW is the time that all nations will see How great God is… There is a shift… it is eminent… it is NOW…

Can’t wait until to see you and Pastor Debye ITB on Sunday…

Love,
Iris

Ebony said...

Ain't no party like a CITN Party cause the CITN don't stop!!! What a service!! Laughter, tears, awesome preaching. It was a once in a lifetime celebration for a once in a lifetime man. The music, the tributes. Thank you for allowing us to share such a special occasion with you. I know that everything in Korea is ordered, and I look forward to the report on Sunday.

Unknown said...

I feel like I'm catching a plane too! All day thinking, "I have to post to Iz/joy! Aaaackkk!" - I haven't forgotten your previous post question. Will post during the Asia break. I don't want to hurry an answer. I agree on the bulgogi. Yum. Had forgotten about yaki mondu. It's kegogi to avoid, right? (smile)

El, there's alot in those words "I Hope You Dance", thanks. I found LeAnn Womack's [I had to Google that PM!] book and bought it for my kids.

Ditto, famman 87. Creme and mystic, ditto, ditto. [I hear izjoy singing "de doo dah day!"]

Vaughn, I haven't checked your blog out, but looks like there'll be time this week.

DBA, 30/10. Funny.

ALL, reading your and Bishop's memories of Sunday's celebraton makes it seem like Clarence is playing his videos!.

Johnny, if you're here, see you ITB. Dennis, you go on vacation?

Laura, I'm looking forward to that River, too!

"Back in the pulpit again" [Bishop, I told izjoy to stop with the Gene Autry imitation, but she can really do that "Whoopi-ty-aye-oh" well.]

Bishop and Pastor Debye, the lavalamp will stay lit the whole time you're gone!

Jesus Groupie said...

I thought I was going to explode from praising so much! I wanted to grab a mic and start sing with Pastor Jimmy. What a celebration we had! It was all excellent and out of the box. I have never experienced anything on that level and my heart is still dancing and being happy for and with you Bishop. You've done well and it shows in how your immediate family embraces you. Oh, and the way you and Lady Bishop embraced with overwhelming displays of affection was inspiring to us married folk. I love that example of how marriage looks and can look and should look. God I am glad to be here! Finally, there is a place for a misfit like me to fit.

tracy said...

Reflections on your 50th--I don't know if this will make it on or not before you go, if not I will know it is only for me right now and that's good too. Watching your 50th celebration touched a deep cord with me. All of the people loving you, celebrating you, connected with you and wanting the best for you. I realized what an awesome thing that is to have. Ya'll know how the Bible talks about a cloud of witnesses going before us? That 's in a spiritual sense, has He not also put a cloud of witnesses going before us in the natural too?Do we not have a "cloud" of people in our lives celebrating us in the good times and cheering us on in the hard times? Standing at the finish line saying "you ARE going to make it" " your latter will be greater than your former"," you are made of good stuff,"I love you"....I see our cloud cheering us forward-people who have loved us unconditionally, people we have sewed into spiritually and financially, people who lookat us and know that if we make it they will too. Anyway I really got this tonight =, so Bish thank you for the gift on your 50th.

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Thanks, everyone…I’m pretty much packed and just chilling a little…checking your beautiful messages...

...thanks for the great reviews from yesterday…my heart is very full of love for all of you…I’m actually having a little separation anxiety because I’ve gotten so used to connecting with you all every day, but I’m also very excited about this trip…your prophetic words about it here are very encouraging, and I feel completely covered by your prayers...

...earlier this evening I went to be with Pastor Lee over at Springfield for a prayer vigil for the young man in his church who was murdered last night…please lift them all up in prayer because this guy was really involved in the church (some of you know him because he visited Nexus)and they're really devastated…very tragic…anyway, I spoke to his congregation tonight…really feel in covenant with them, so I’m feeling a lot of things tonight…

...mostly, however, I am just enjoying the residual energy from yesterday…very thankful for everything…

...we have a layover tomorrow in LA for a while, so I may post something while I’m there if I can get online…

...it’s nearly 11 and I’ll be up for a while, so if you want to post something I’ll send it through…

...one more time, I really, really love you all!

el ojo y la luz said...

Thank you tracy. Never thought of the cloud of witnesses in that way before. If any of you have that cloud in the natural, be thankful for it. If you think you don't have look a little harder and maybe even ask yourself why. Even if you have a small cloud, there is someone out there celebrating, encouraging and building each one of us up. That was a really beautiful explanation.

famman87 said...

Not exactly sure why but...

The truth you speak has no past and no future….
It is, and that’s all it needs to be.

Hope it reaches you.

el ojo y la luz said...

We really love you too, Bishop. I know what you mean about separation anxiety. I have been logged on to this blog for days. I even take you guys with me in the car sometimes. I listen to your playlist instead of the radio. I will definitely miss the conversations and insight while you are away.

That's really too bad about the Springfield church member. I will keep them in my prayers.

el ojo y la luz said...

famman, I felt that as I read it. It says so much, I don't want to call it great or awesome or even amazing. Man, it goes so deep. Right to your core and all I can say is WOW!

Erik said...

Hello, the best of the best of the best , sirs !!!! (and Ladies) (Splash of MIB).

We are just all having an Enchanting time at the house party Bishop arranged some time back. Now, he is off to gather with other house party arrangers, probably discussing all of the great themes, conversation topics, music, food, drink and circulating flows. All of course, in conjunction with The Master party arranger. The One Who Says…. And there Is… How wonderful.

Just imagine the parties to follow, after they all exchange notes, edifying tips, and especially how to bring in the others that seem to miss the joy of the insightful & witty conversation. I am quite certain that soon, many, many more will open the invitation and will be coming to the house parties all over the world, each with their own themes, with the most wonderful costumes.

In the meantime, we have opportunities to make this particular meeting place welcoming to those who may have picketed the party, before they actually opened the invites. Probably sensitive in a challenging way, without scaring them, just edifying , confirming them, and uplifting, in a real way.

This is going to be great. Bishop is off expanding the party with others doing the same, and we are doing a bit around here to spruce up the energy, keep everything ready, top form, enough ‘seats’ where incoming find their spot. We will be creating those ‘seats’. There is a lot to do, but it all flows. All over the world, scales will fall away, and all will see how great God Is.

I know we like to say ‘our’ God, but really, there is no ‘our’ / ‘their’ God. I know we all know this, but we keep saying something different, that whole possessive thing is…. just limiting , (until, of course, ‘our’ means everyone that ever lived , lives, or will live, and that means the same to everyone who says and hears ‘our’ in relation to God) especially since we are entering a whole new unlimited ’ness’, that includes absolutely everyone.

Just saying….. Sr. Pastor Swilley reminded us of how we will be welcoming all those who may have a hard time coming in,, and I don’t think he meant the ones with self harming behaviors, but the ones who have been trying to keep others looking down. We do not have a problem for those with personal issues, but, the mean ones are not so likeable, but, we welcome them too, even if they are not so nice at first. Personally, I like the questionable characters, they are usually very nice. The stiff ones are often mean. I don’t like that. Will probably need the rest of you to point out their nice qualities please to help me uplift them too. Even with that small ‘bump’, the fun and beauty is increasing exponentially, so, wooooo hooooo Praises to God.

Erik said...

Hey everyone, remember, we can all carry on in these days on the CITN service blog. All the aliases can be used ,... etcetera, etcetara , etcetera, per Yul.

Kettly said...

Good Morning Bishop,

Fritz told me sunday was a very great day. Very prophetic and very Spiritual.I apologize for I couldn't be there to celebrate with you,but know this,that I was there with you in spirit.

A little notes on you're fifty:
Now that you're "FIFTY",you live 600 months;18262 Daya;438,288 hours;26,297,280,minutes. 1,546300,800;seconds.
Bon Vayage Bishop. God bless you and Pastor Debye.
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Unknown said...

Erik?! I was enjoying sugar plums dancing and your Whistling Happy Tunes and Shall We Dancing woke me up! Hmmm--maybe that's why I was enjoying sugar plums?

Well, anyway, Practical Prophet Erik, now that I'm up, I loved your "welcoming those who picketed the party" and "there is much to do" list. So right.

And prophet Iris! And prophet famman87! What El said, said!

Machion, have you noticed that disjointed Picasso guy in the room next to you? He just came in 'cos he saw you are here and us loving you.

What El said, Tracy!

I had not heard about the Springfield loss. My prayers are added too.

separation anxiety? I don't have separation anxiety. [fingers in ears] lalalalalala

Bishop and Pastor Debye,I woke up also remembering this crazy pneumonic for how to say "You're Welcome" in Korean "chew on my navel". Crazy, but it sticks--obviously. Actually pronounced "chow mah nay oh".

Thank you is "com som knee dah" (com and som sort of like calm and psalm - [hey that's cool!] - without the L sound). If you get connectivity in LA, here's a site where you can hear the real deal:

http://english.tour2korea.com/02Culture/KoreanLanguage/handy_korean_phrases01.asp?kosm=m2_9&konum=subm2_1

or "Tour2Korea.com", culture tab, handy Korean phrases.

Back to sugarplums, ALL!

tracy said...

El- you are so right even a small cloud can produce alot of "rain". Also cloud in Websters means - and I am SOO paraphrasing "a visible body dispersed in the atmosphere" Coolio.
Praying for Springfield Baptist and family of young man. That su#$%. Also Bish and Pastor Debye could Korea be your "suddenly"?

Leesa said...

Our prayers are with Pastor Lee and his congregation during this difficult time. I am so sorry to hear about this.

Bish, WOW! Your celebration at CITN was outstanding! Pastor Debye is the BEST! Everyone here at our "blog party" has recounted things so perfectly. I add my agreement!

Its the "foolish things of the world that confound the wise"...you are leaving on April 1..how interesting! This is not a natural/normal trip ...this is a Divine assignment. I completely expect both of your bodies to be infused with the life-force energy!It will be as if you are translated.... your bodies do not suffer the "normal" jet lag and recovery! Iris..Right on! They are going to LOVE you! Bishop, I pray your birthday celebration continues and your are both honored and blessed beyond measure! Keeping you in prayer! Leesa

Anonymous said...

OK, first off, I think I got the answer to the cosmic conundrum from my Sunday question (city set on a hill).

This morning, I awoke with the realization (forehead slap) that it's all about the LIGHT. Not limited specifically to physical location. (why God, why, didn't I see that before? aaaaack!!)

Mystic - I agree w/your sentiments, "All heaven waits to see what we will do with that powerful name." God of angel armies! Whoa!

Happy birthday to: Bo Flanders,
Millie Hull, Nina Kofa & John Miller. (don't bother sweeping up those little .... that's cyber confetti)

famman87 & avatar :)

Adding prayer of agreement for the undergirding of Pastor Lee's family & church. In the midnight hour God's gonna turn it around.

For all encountering faith challenges, He'll turn it around. And around, 'til it works in your favor.

Teezy313 said...

Bish and Pastor Debbye,

Have fun in Korea!! Blessings and safe travels to both of you!!

Luv ya much,

TEEZY

Kettly said...

Dear Family in the Lord,

Today in the (YITN)the word for today is:"PURE GOLD".

1)Today I will live in the now because my life has been purified by the fie of the Holy Ghost and I am coming forth as gold that is refined to the point of being transparent.Having been purged,I can live this day with no pretense
phoniness or hypocrisy,giving myself permission to be a real person seeking the real GOD in the real world.

Questions: 1-Have you been in the fire yet?
2-If you have,how was it?
3-Did you come out purified?
4- Having been purged.Did you like the experience you went through?

Having been through the fire myself
it was one experience that I went through that was good for me.I've learned when we going through the fire to be purged out from stuffs inside that's not pleasing to our Father.So, its our Father ways of saying welcome home my son/daughter
now,you are ready for whatever I may presented to you to handle,
before I couldn't but now I know I can.Know that FAITH and OBEDIENCE
can removed mountains.
I say today if you have not experience the fire yet,you need to. Ask the Lord you to have a
deeper relatioship with Him.I can tell you it's worth going through the fire.
May the Lord Bless All of You Today.
Remember to keep Bishop and Pastor Debye,to yours and mine prayers today.
LOVE YOU ALL.
KETTLY

Unknown said...

Hi Leesa! Good to "see" you.

So many awesome prophets in the house! Anybody need a glass of water?

Anonymous said...

Salutations Bish & Pastor Debye!

It's already tomorrow where you are. It's you! In the future! And you look much better than you did just then.

"A dream is an answer to a question we haven't yet learned to ask." - Fox Muldar

A: Wisdom, understanding, a desk, a writing table, an ergonomic chair, prophetic pen with supernatural ink.

A mountain bicycle.

A Ma TouQin (instrument) and supernatural ability to play it to spirit heart strings.

A writing room with many windows. Clarity in seeing the secret place of the Most High. Permission to translate insights.

Walking shoes that never wear out. Renewed youth that bubbles forth every morning.

Fortification with the multitudes of watchmen. Quickened understanding & awareness. Peace and goodwill towards & from others.

Impartation from all the blessed hands that shake yours. Benefits from those who serve, impart into and encourage you.

Expansiveness of spirit. Travel & fellowship with visionaries.

Good news, a good word from Godly messengers, a good laugh, a good night's sleep. Good health.

His steadfast love and tender mercies. Healing wings.

A larger key ring.

A lamp.

Golden apples in silver settings.

Q: What does Daddy bring me?

Unknown said...

izjoy! Glass of water to you too (smile)! The "larger key ring" was a set in silver gold apple to me. Wow.

Fun to ponder what our spiritual Mom and Dad will bring back for us from Korea?

Anonymous said...

Fun to ponder - yes. Even more delightful, is going there via Holy Spirit Express & translating it back! (hehe)