Friday, October 10, 2008

A Couple of Very Good Ideas
























My name is Jim Swilley, and I approved this message.

70 comments:

Anonymous said...

Dear Bishop,

I love what had happened on Tuesday with the GPF. It makes me feel now; I can be around with the ones that have different kind of beliefs as I do. Thank you for your role and your participation on the event, and also for including us to be part of this experience. I have two questions, regarding Tuesday’s event.
My first question is that: We are supposed to be a Church where the Holy Spirit dwells, forgive me for going there asking this question tonight. I was waiting, for Pr. Debye, to pray with fire of the HOLY SPIRIT to welcome the SPIRIT of GOD into the HOUSE she did not. Also I was waiting for the Nation of Worship, to lead the event with an electrifying song. To my very grand surprise they did not.

Second question is this: As my spiritual father, and as my Bishop, I hope I don’t offend you when I ask you this question, because I truly DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE MEANING OF THIS DEMONSTRATION. Besides, I did not notice you did any of the things they were doing.
My question is this: Can you please explain to me the meaning of the pouring of water into the Bowl.

And why you & Pr. Debye did not do it?
Please Bishop, don’t feel offended because I asked, these questions. I just did not get or understand the meaning of the whole scenario. Please help me understand! Thank you!
The Scripture say: my people die for lack of knowledge. I don’t to want to be, one that die for lack of knowledge.

Anonymous said...

For you night owls, I just put up a new article on my blog about "Intolorance - Peace, and maturity in Christ". Thought it might be interesting as I think it flows with what has been unfolding lately at CITN.

Gotta hit the hay...not really we do have matrises out here in Arky.
Den

http://not1lost.blogspot.com/

Erik said...

Hey All, A little off the subject at hand, but ……

A fun little accounting.

Backdrop – The whole Lucifer issue, highest angel, praise and worship king, wants to be more exalted, yada, yada, yada. More detail on the process. ---

So, God is hangin with Lucifer. God is concerned, Lucifer seems to be lacking the spark he once had, not so much into the glory and blessing, praise and worship. God asks,

‘What’s up Luci? , you seem distant’. Luci says ‘ Hard to say, just not feelin it, like I was. You are great and all, but it seems like a season is changing, know what I mean?’

‘Yeah’, God responds, ‘I actually do know (He knows everything)’ . Relieved, Luci asks, ‘What are You driving at?’ . God smiles, ‘Not much gets by you, which I like. I think a new career path will suit you. I have a new thing I am doing, and I think you will fit right in.’

‘You have my attention, Lord. With the intro from You, it sounds intriguing. Benefits and pay the same ?’

‘ Of course, and some really enjoyable perks’, is the Holy reply. ‘So, what’s the deal? I am in, You do not have to do the heavy sell, just give me the basics, I am sure I can ad lib as we go, I know You, and already am feelin the vibe of what you’re looking for’ Luci engages.

God, feeling Lucifer’s commitment, follows, ‘ The world I am creating will really benefit from an adversary, in actuality, a refiner. This will be something you will like, and you will see people talk and focus on you overtly more than they do Me. It will do your ego good. In fact, their fear will make you a god, just like you desire. Are you ready?’

Gratified, Luci agrees. Lucifer bows down and kisses god’s feet. ‘You know I am committed to You, I just needed to do something only I can do. There are several who can lead the worship. I know what You are asking only I can do, and I am thankful for the trust You have in me’.

Closing the deal, God encourages Luci, ‘It will be tough on you as well, as much as people will revere you, they will fear and ‘hate’ you. That may be hard to take, so I give you grace to deal with it. As an employee sanctioned by Me, I will direct you to specific people and provide you with stress points for you to work on them in general. It is really beneficial for the refining of this creation, so you will need to learn the expertise for a goldsmith, that I will teach you. I love the people I create, and the refining is important to Me. As My expert goldsmith, you, Lucifer, will be a critical aspect of the revealing of who they are. As much as I love you and all of the Angels, these people are something entirely new, innocent, frail, strong as I Am, and almost as knowing as I Am, while trembling. Beautiful, they do not see and they also believe. ‘

Luci, in awe of the insight and sensitivity God has, as well as God’s sovereignty in creating sovereign beings, while providing the area for them to grow into who they actually are in Him. Free to choose, and freely choosing Love, God, Peace without condition. Luci is thrilled to be part of that transformation. ‘The plan is excellent, free to your creation, and yet the ultimate place to arrive from all they have been created with. The Love of You, each other and themselves, all tied into You. Yes and Amen. I will work overtime to see this through. Thank You and Praise You for gracing me with this role in Your perfection. I will do it to the tee, the best adversary for Your creation and refiner in Your word’. Luci gladly accepts the role of assisting God’s creation, strengthening it as God directs. As a trusted employee of God, Lucifer submits to each assignment with a high level of skill and direction, as he enjoys regular consultation with God, Luci’s Creator. They often enjoy a good meal, as Lucifer worships God, and tells of the excellent growth of the faith of The Physical Creation God made, how they overcome in faith their struggles, how the refining with Holy Fire, some of which Luci applies at God’s direction.

God calls The Creation good. Love among each of His people, infinite expression, while all flowing through Her Peace, expanding in each cell of each soul, always. Interference burned away in the refining, by the refiner, (adversary) fire and brimstone, lake of Pur. perfect atunement used by God for expanding Peace.

All aspects woven together for the beautiful garment that adorns us and is us – refined by Pur, aka Luci, as directed and obedient to God.

SCRIBE said...

Good Morning...

Here is a word that God said needs to be shared... I shall post in 2 entries, this being Part 1.

Journal Entry: Thursday Evening
09 October 2008 @ 1737

"Shout Hallelujah! decalres the Lord of Hosts, for "I AM" comes to set the records straight and the houses of mine people in order. And when Divine Order is established in the places where mine people dwell and abide, this brings forth Supernatural Divine Order in mine temples, tabernacles, sanctuaries, cathedrals, mospues, and synagogues. Selah... For when the places that my people reside - both in their physical beings and abodes that they call homes are in continuous disarray, this confusion and division spills ovre into my Holy Places. Let them that have an ear not only LISTEN carefully, but discern by way of the Holy Spirit all that I am conveying in the here and now. Furthermore, those who continue to THROW ROCKS AND HIDE THIER HANDS, wearing garments of false humility, arrogance, haughtiness, and piety are hereby put on otice: Those things which have been sown into the lives of others shall also be reaped trillion folds over. And they dare not expect to receive the good fruits of the land if all they have sown is Chaos, Confusion, Discord, Gossip, Malice, Backbiting, Busybodiying, and Treachery amonst the body of believers while blaspheming by way of false prophecy through mutilation of the brethren in speech and deeds. Selah...

For this dear people should not be! Therefore, be mindful of mine admonishments and do not wage war against mine messengers as they boldly decalre mine Absolute Truth- wherefore is the Unpopular Gosple. For I AM the Lord of Hosts and I visit each person right they live according to the seeds which have been sown. I AM the Lord Almighty! I see all, hear all, and know all. Stand still and see the Salvation of the Lord int he land of the living. I come that you may find PEACE which surpasses all understanding and this PEACE begins with what resides in the hearts of individuals. for if one is at peace within himself, they will not incite needless commotions and dicord by playing as "go-betweens" and repeating every matter that they hear! selah... For all which is seen, heard, or know of is NOT discussion worhty. So, in all tings, allow the words of htey mouth and meditations of thine hearts to prove pleasing and acceptable to Me at all times. Just because one does NOT understand a thing or person does not mean that it should prove to be the latest "Hot Topic" of Talebearers to propogate disharmony and disunity. Selah...Amen. All tings that are discerned correctly as well should NOT be the topic for in depth discussion with others UNLESS it is for the betterment, awakening, or foreboding of one about to become entrapped due to spiritual blindness. And even in such matters, these are to be directed by way of the Holy Spirit. Selah...

I AM the Lord Almighty and I neither sleep nor slumber. I have a set time and season for all things, yet I AM not limited, hindered, or bound by timelines / timetables. I AM the Creator of Time and NOT a slave to time. Selah... Standfast and let they that have given up become Renewed and Transformed in the mind of Christ. My PEACE I grant thee in overwhelming measure, for htis season and anointing is NOT for the faint at heart, rebellious, wayward, deceitful, controlling, nor those whom babble incessantly of al that they think that they know while judging matters before the appropriate time, which they have no True Revelation of. Selah...

Anonymous said...

I was at GPF on tuesday and bishop
my mind is full of questions that i trust you to clarify. Every thing that happened was ok untill it came to the pouring of water in the bowl. sir, i feel it symbolizes that there are many ways to get to GOD. That is how my sprit sees it, I may be wrong, bish. I noticed that some of the spiritual leaders were chanting under their breath as they were pouring their water. Please sir what is the spritual importance of that action in the house of God on the alter of God. I asked this in love and your answer as bishop of this great house may help me to sort out this conflict in my spirit that I feel. I love God and his people, yet fully aware that Jesus is lord and that is the truth that sets free. love all.
from, anxious to know.

SCRIBE said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

I can feel what the previous bloggers were saying about GPF tueday. I just took bishop first sentence, when he said that he cannot promise us it is holy water.
there is nothing holy about that water. It may represent peace in the natural but in the spiritual only christ is our peace. I know that Jesus is a 'big boy" and can take care of himself, but he says if we confess him before men, He will confess us before his father.
love yah.

Anonymous said...

The pouring of the water was beautiful and I guess it is just differnet for every body, but, that is what it is all about any way. Right? Chant, light a candle, pray out loud in the spirit, meditate, what ever it is that you do. Its still one GOD. The water, for me ,symbolized simply a coming together. It was awesome.We wouldnt have asked any of them to not be free to worship the way they do, no more than we would have asked any of us to be good for that night. As far as Pastor Debye praying in the spirit, well she was full of the spirit and if she had been moved to do so she would have, I am sure. This was a geniune event. Please know that nobody was putting on a show for them or for us. I simply dont see the problem and wonder if maybe there is a religous spirit rearing its ugly head. UT OH! I know it may seem strange to some but really you dont have to believe any thing other than what you have always believed. Its ALL good.

Anonymous said...

This event was a planned hosted event and Nation of Worship had a schedule of songs, which by the way were very electrifying, where were you?
This was not a chuch service. Why be so critical. Hope you have a better understanding now....

SCRIBE said...

Continuation...(Part 2)

"I AM the Lord Almighty and I have come to set the records staright and mine people in order. And Woe be it unto those whom reject mine word and mock minemessengers whom are mine Bondservants where OBEDIENCE unto Me is NOT a choice, it is their LIFELINE! Selah... Woe be it unto they whom Value the Opinions of Others moreso than they do adhering to mine instructions! Let the Redeemed and Consecrated of the Lord take a stand to say- NOT mine will, Oh LORD, but THY WILL BE DONE above all else! Selah...

REJOICE! for I AM come to set in motion that which MUST BE cleaned up before mine Most Excellent Dimension of Glory is unveiled. While Mine People stand around whining that they are "waiting on Me"- the LORD JEHOVAH to bring about the necessary changes- they need not wait any longer; I AM HERE! I have been waiting on mine people to simply CHANGE THEIR MINDS! And as their mindsets are changed, Renewed, Transformed by the Consecration of their spirits thorugh the Holy Spirit Fire- THEN they shall grasp hold of not only the Fullness of Revelations that I desire to impart, but as well RECEIVE the Manifestation of Fringe Benefits and Perks. Selah...

Let everything that have breath Praise ye' the Lord of Hosts. Shout Hallelujah! for this is the Season of DIVING RECKONING! I AM the Lord Almighty in all mine Splendor and Majesty! It is the normal and usual thing for my people to want what "feels good", yet I AM come to impart that which IS GOOD FOR THEM. Just as a Life-Saving Medication- it does not necessarily TASTE GOOD, but shall prove to do the body good- bringing forth VIBRANT HEALTH and Renwed Vision / Focus. Amen.

REJOICE! and again I say Rejoice, for this is the day that I- the Lord Almighty have made and all should Rejoice and be glad in it! Amen. REPENT! for the Kingdom of God has arrived and everyting that has been done in and out of the throes of darkness is being exposed by way of the Glorious Light in CHRIST. I AM the Lord of Hosts unto the utmost and I AM all seeing and all knowing! Abandon that which is stagnant and dead within thee, thereby CHOOSING LIFE and Life More Abundantly. Mine PEACE is Plentiful for the taking, yet in order to be at PEACE and in the Flow of the Holy Spirit, one must be at PEACE within themselves through RIGHT RELATIONSHIP with Me- the Lord JEHOVAH. And when they commune in Right Relationship with Me, they are Facilitators OF PEACE among the brethren. Yet, dear people, do not misunderstand- everyone does NOT desire to do you well, even when you walk In the LOVE of CHRIST by way of the Holy Spirit. Love covers a multitude of sin, HOWEVER remain steadfast in Prayer while being Clothed in the FULL ARMOR of GOD that ye' may be Alert, Aware, then Guarded, Sheilded, and Protected from those Wolves whom come Dressed in Sheeps' Clothing seeking to devour the Deceived, naive, foolish, unsuspecting, and those not solidly Grounded in ME. I HAVE COME TO SET THE CAPTIVES FREE! Selah...Amen.

Let everything that have breath Praise Ye' the LORD! Carry on in Faith and Faithfulness unto Me, for I am the Lord Almighty,so look neither to the left or right, but staying Focused on Me and IN TUNE with the Holy Spirit as my people make a commitment to dwell in Mine Presence. For in Mine Presence, there is Security, Soundness of Mind, Renewal, Protection, and Rejuvenation of the Spirit, Healing, Wholeness, WISDOM, and Provision- encomapssing the PEACE which surpasses all understanding.

Shout Hallelujah! for the NEW SEASON has broken through sound barriers and blockades, leaving behind piles of rubble and debris from all foundations NOT BUILT on, in, through, and By ME- the LORD JEHOVAH. For as I AM LIFTED UP, MY SPIRIT shall draw all persons near unto Me- the Lord Almighty! Great is Mine Faithfulness indeed. REJOICE, for I AM that I AM, whom is MORE THAN ENOUGH! Selah...Amen.

NTL said...

I honestly believe that the Holy Spirit was hovering over the water in the bowls. After having hovered over the waters of the whole earth, I feel real secure that He had control over this situation of a few bowls of water.

If Jesus could turn water into wine, I'm sure the Holy Spirit could keep just plain water, just plain water.

Anonymous said...

There is much value to the symbolic pouring of water into one bowl from diverse worshipers of God.

The water is a joyful form of worship that when directed to one God gives greater power to the love that is sought by all.

I also love the factual thought of Bishop having used the term water to describe the word of God to us.

peacemaker said...

"My name is Jim Swilley and I approved this message."
Dude, that's beautiful!

It seems as if some still haven't quite grasped the meaning and significance of the GPF, or even today's post yet, but I believe at some point, they will. And they will without our prodding or critisims coaxing them along. God knows I remember when I not only would not have gotten it, I would have denounced the whole thing as "anti-christ". Now, I KNOW better.
I trust the spiritual evolutionary process to carry those who hunger and thirst through unfamiliar, sometimes uncomfortable, territory, yet at the same time, resonating within their hearts the rightness of what is "different".
I hear pure hearts really searching for answers. I believe they will receive them when they are ready for them.

Tuesday night needs not to be defended. Those who are enlightened know the significance of that most profound night in the life of CITN and the destiny of Bishop and Pastor Debye.

For those who may be struggling with the meaning of that night or what it represented; stay open to Spirit. Be mindful in the days ahead. Clarity will come. What ever you do though, and what questions you may ask, do so in the spirit of love and unity; not critisim and judgment. For the latter brings nothing but gross separation.
Ecclesiastes 1:7 says: "All rivers run into the Sea; yet the Sea is not full..."
God and the family of God is much bigger than tradition has taught us. No one is excluded...regardless.

In the Spirit of Peace,
PM

NTL said...

PM,

Perfect.

Anonymous said...

Re: "Be more concerned about what God thinks about you, than what people think about you."

I love thanking Him for how His thoughts are to all my generations. That they're very deep, very high and very precious - the sum of them, very great. I love that His thoughts are not mine, but can be if I ask in faith.

Pic 2 - I love that I see an entirely different scenario this morning, than when I've previously studied this pic.

What are the people doing?

Some hold, some comfort, some celebrate, some offer a cool drink.

Some bring a song.

Anonymous said...

And some pray.

Anonymous said...

Some cover.

Some offer grain.

Some break bread together.

NTL said...

izumi/joy,
and some, who are caring less and less what man thinks, are about to dance like David danced, and then some.

Anonymous said...

Nothing to lose - Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there's LIBERTY!

be FREE... YEAH... FREE... YEAH

NTL said...

izumi/joy

WHOOO HOOO!!!

The Pastor Debye kind...

Anonymous said...

Taking a look at Tue. night ..
All the people coming together as one.
Ya know we came together as one before.
Think about it (our birth).
Religion is taught.
We are born into someone else's religious mindset.
Usually our parents.
Those who don't or haven't been brought up with a religious mindset are searching.
Religious mindsets can bring people in or run them away.
Remember we are people first.
Our spirit shows we are connected with first the Father and then with each other.
Love your brother no matter what belief he is.
It's way past due that we should embrace each other's belief and learn the difference so we can see how much we really are alike.

Personally I would love to have each one come back and tell us a little more about their belief or share... for example...for the Rabbi to come and explain the Sader.

How cool is it to learn about about others.

Peace

Shalom

Anonymous said...

Nothing to lose

WOOHOO - small step for man; giant leap for mankind! In an Izumi of the Universe translation!

Son of Zadok said...

Scribe, that was an awesome word as always. When God speaks to you like that, I want to listen. The words always ring true with me. I'm sure Bishop is taking time to make a thoughtful response to those who have questions about the GPF Tuesday night. I admire those who would ask the questions. It is neither wrong or a lack of faith to do so. I, like peacemaker, can relate to a time when I would have cried out "anti-Christ!" at any such display as Tuesday night. However, now I'm starting to see just how Christ centered an event like Tuesday is, and how rather "anti-Christ" the Pharisaical/separatist beliefs are which I held myself for many years. An amazing thing happens inside of you when you really see that God loves everyone and gives up on no one. It allows you to trust in the truth that everyone is working out their own salvation. Now scripture clearly states in 1 John that the liar is the man who denies that Jesus is the Christ. Many are lying to themselves in that regard. However, In the same chapter it goes on to say that everyone who does what is right has been born of him. Two very interesting statements. 2 John goes on to say anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God, what are Christ's teachings? The same chapter states I ask that we love one another. And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. Is Christ the absolute way, truth, and life? Most assuredly, but what is the sign that Christ is in you. That we do good and love one another. Tuesday night was an act of doing good and love for each other. To me the water being poured in the bowel represents our lives being poured into each other. It's a symbolic gesture that we are one family under God. You know church, many are going to come on their day and say Lord, Lord, we did this and that in your name, and they will see He hasn't been Lord in them at all. Why were they corrected? Was it for loving others wherever they were on life's path. Was it for embracing, fellowshipping with, and loving others? A million times no, it was quite the opposite, it was for not caring for others.
Now you can say what is taking place seems to denote that there are many "ways to God". I'd say your right. Thank God! However, when one passes from this life, who will meet them their? The porter and the door, Jesus Christ will. And if they've had His Spirit in them all along, they will be well pleased to finally see the One who was behind the goodness in their life. However, many who confess Christ as Lord will see what spirit they were really of, and its not going to be well with them. That should "scare" you more than a Global PEACE Festival at CITN!
I know we are saved by grace, but our faith should be an activator to acts of love in this life, and by this fruit we will know we are saved. God's Spirit is working in each of us. Just because someone has not come to the full revelation of repentance through Christ does not mean Christ is not working in them. You see; He loves the righteous and the unrighteous; He sends the rain for the good and the bad. My point is; if we have Christ, we will be the most loving, unifying people on earth. If someone has 100 sides, we will see the best side! We must see Christ in others. And if they don't confess Christ, that is between them and God. Their was no urgency in Jesus ministry for the masses to confess His name; He commands us to love each other. Our command is to love. And maybe by loving them, they will see Christ in you!
It's been said their are many windows, but one light. Praise be unto God we know who that light is, but God forbid we ever forget again the significance of what that light means in how we treat each other.
Let God work in every life, it doesn't diminish Christ in you, it enhances it. You are not compromising your faith by allowing others the room to express theirs; you are enhancing your own and allowing Christ to shine in you!

From the Prophecy:

I come that you may find PEACE which surpasses all understanding and this PEACE begins with what resides in the hearts of individuals. REJOICE! for I AM come to set in motion that which MUST BE cleaned up before mine Most Excellent Dimension of Glory is unveiled.

What if when we finally love one another, the Glory falls and then all shall know. If we don't have this love, we will not be able to contain that which the Lord wants to pour out. Be patient. Let God be God. Pray; meditate on your love for Him and He will guide you in all truth. Let Christ live in you and we all will be changed.

Erik, have you ever watched these videos? I'm not saying yes or no, but it's food for thought.

youtube.com/watch?v=iA4yHtLCmxs&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=3ZKsiM5uIfw

Anonymous said...

Bishop,
Everytime I open the blog, or come to the church, or listen to one of your cd's, I am amazed at the gift that God has given to you and how eloquently the Holy Spirit works through you.
Today's post was perfect!

PM- I totally agree with you...

It seems as if some still haven't quite grasped the meaning and significance of the GPF, or even today's post yet, but I believe at some point, they will.

Son of Zadok said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Son of Zadok said...

I know I went on enough already, but one final thing comes to mind. St. Xavier was one of the greatest men of God the world has ever known. He preached to the greatest and spent so much of his life working and loving with the very least. He went all over the world, into India, Japan, and even broke ground in China, where he gave his life for the gospel. St. Xavier, like many great men of God, came to a greater understanding of Him in this life and his means and message was not orthodox to the church, but it was God! Eventually when preaching the gospel, he would even refer to other religions holy books as "scriptures". You know something, people came to Christ by the thousands because of his love and understanding. We could learn a lot from great men of faith as he.

Anonymous said...

Refine & Redefine me oh, Lord!

Anonymous said...

soz, we are. In Africa, the Philippians, Peru and the Americas, he is known as Bishop Jim

Son of Zadok said...

Their are those of you who need God to show you more concerning these things. I encourage you to go to this site and scroll down to the bottom of the page and listen to a sermon entitled, Why I Am Not a Canable. It will bless you. In fact, if you've never heard Charlie Osburn's testimony at the top of the page, give that a listen sometime. It might change your life, it really did mine! All of the sermons on this page are so full of truth and life. Add it to your favorites.

fishfulthinkin.com/audio_teachings.htm

Son of Zadok said...

Yes Anon, Bishop Jim. I think God has his hand on that one.

Anonymous said...

And some carry treasure in earthen vessels!

Son of Zadok said...

Pastor Dennis,

I'm apologize, but your writing is just to good and too important not to post here today for those who might miss it. I hope you don't mind me bringing it over here.

From not1lost.blogspot.com

I to was once full of arrogant intolerance of others differing beliefs than my own. But I have seen that this approach to others differing beliefs is not acting in love. Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails;……... (1Co 13:4-8 NASB) Our brother Paul the apostle said this in this same chapter which had the purpose of pointing out that the highest achievement of “religious works” in any category was futile and useless, even considered to be absolutely nothing without love. Jesus said “have love for one another as I have loved you” and we know that He certainly was tolerant of many of their misunderstandings and shortcomings on many occasions. In another place where the apostle Paul was dealing with peoples disagreements on spiritual perspectives, he said “Now about things offered to images: we all seem to ourselves to have knowledge. Knowledge gives pride, but love gives true strength. If anyone seems to himself to have knowledge, so far he has not the right sort of knowledge about anything;” (1Co 8:1-2 BBE) Here Paul is saying that all people “think to themselves” that they have knowledge of a certain thing. And even if they “are right” as here in their knowledge of others having a false “image” (understanding) of God; this knowledge is not building up but tearing down relationships with their knowledge. Paul is saying you would be better off; even though “you know” they are wrong in their belief; to keep your knowledgeable mouth shut and love them right where they are. And in so doing this would “build up” the foundation to build a relationship where honest respectful dialog can come forth. And in so doing the truth will always come out you don’t have to worry about that; the Spirit of Christ Jesus in you will always prevail as long as we act in love. When we walk in the Spirit of Christ, keeping in step with the Spirit in our daily path we will see progressive revelation of the Kingdom of God around us and through us. But when we begin to walk in the flesh the outcome will also be evident; “Now the works of the flesh are obvious: ………hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish rivalries, dissensions, factions, …….and similar things. I am warning you, as I had warned you before: Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God! (Gal 5:19-21 NET.) Oh let the frozen chosen of their denomination or religious system here this! If you cannot walk in love toward your brother with whom you disagree, YOU ARE NOT FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT OR EVEN IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD! But you are following the flesh and all of its selfish, corrupt evil ways; while you think you are “doing the Lords work”. Listen to the Lord Jesus Himself, I like the way the Message Bible has it "Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults--unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.” (Mat 7:1-5 MSG)

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Mat 7:12 NIV)

"Teacher, which command in God's Law is the most important?" Jesus said, "'Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.' This is the most important, the first on any list. But there is a second to set alongside it: 'Love others as well as you love yourself.' These two commands are pegs; everything in God's Law and the Prophets hangs from them." (Mat 22:36-40 MSG)

“I can see it now--at the Final Judgment thousands strutting up to me and saying, 'Master, we preached the Message, we bashed the demons, our God-sponsored projects had everyone talking.' And do you know what I am going to say? 'You missed the boat. All you did was use me to make yourselves important. You don't impress me one bit. You're out of here.” (Mat 7:22-23 MSG)

Do you see, we “miss the point” when we try to cram our knowledge down people’s throats that we think are wrong, with our arguments, questioning and debating. We are not walking in love and therefore not fulfilling the redemptive purposes of God in the earth. And I say this is true no matter whether you are a Christian, Muslim, Hindu, American Indian, or whatever; when we walk and live in love for our fellowman, within that relationship of loving interaction and conversation, the truth will come forth. We do not have to fret and worry as Jesus said. The Spirit of Christ can take care of Himself and knows what is best in each individual case. He is always working “behind the scenes” for the furtherance of the Gospel and the good of all. I have complete confidence in this process because it is operating within the Spirit of God Who is love and Who cannot fail.

I heard you say “what about Jesus” Jesus the Christ said Himself, that He was in The Father and The Father (God) was in him and They are One if you have one you have the other. Through the cross God in Christ Jesus has shown the world His love for them, Jesus said “if I am lifted up I will draw (literal Greek - to Drag irresistibly) all people to myself”. We say we have Jesus abiding in us through the Spirit of Christ; If we through the love of God embrace, accept, forgive, and give worth to all we come in contact as He did all humanity through the Cross, that kind of love will irresistibly draw all to Christ, this my friends is the “GOOD NEWS” every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus Christ as Lord to the Glory of God the Father Phil. 2:10-11 (not forced to fake it) but by their free will; happily, exuberantly, heartily rejoicing in the realization of the plan of salvation and indescribable love and power of our Awesome God to all and will be all in all 1Cor 15:28, Eph. 1:23.

Rev. Dennis D. Caldwell

Bishop Jim Swilley said...

Hey bloggers,

I crashed after posting last night, and I’ve been busy with something else all morning, so, imagine my surprise when I logged on and saw 32 comments posted here already today.

I’m a little saddened that anyone connected to CITN would misunderstand what happened Tuesday night, especially since I went to such great lengths to explain it all in the Sacrament Service last Sunday night, and because the communion that we took to prepare for the GPF was so anointed. Maybe those who misunderstand weren’t at church Sunday night.

I really shouldn’t even have to do this, but, again, I’ll explain it to those who question.

First of all, this was not a CITN service, which is why it didn’t take place on a Sunday or a Wednesday. This was something that CITN hosted. It would have been rude of us to have invited people from everywhere just to have them sit there and watch Debye and me do everything. She and I were on a planning committee for it, along with several others from different faith groups. And we didn’t participate in the water ceremony because they already had Christian and Pentecostal representation from those who had come from other states.

The water pouring ceremony was something that they came up with at the last minute in Washington for the GPF in August. They usually do a ceremony where they light candles and hold them up, but the security for the Washington Mall wouldn’t allow fire that close to the Capitol building, so the water became the alternative. But it turned out to be so effective that they asked if they could do it here, as well.

All I could think of when I saw it the first time was:

They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:2-4)

That passage was written about people in the wilderness, who lived centuries before the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. So when the GPF leadership asked my permission to repeat the ceremony, I was happy for them to do it. It is symbolic on many levels.

Providing bottles of it to the people was Debye’s idea…a way for people to remember what happened that night, and a reminder to them to pray for peace and unity…and someone in the church donated them. Our guests from around the world were profoundly grateful for them.

And I’m sure some of the people were, indeed, praying or chanting. Many of them could get into a lot of trouble with their own people for being in a Christian church. This was a new and challenging experience for them, and they, especially the leaders of Mosques and Synagogues and Temples, were very brave to do it.

But I think my bigger question would have to be, how could anyone who heard Nation of Worship’s anointed performance of “He Lives In You” Tuesday night not find it to be BEYOND electric???!!! It was one of the most powerful things I have every heard in my life! And to any of you who were a part of it, please don’t let anyone’s critical words here dampen your spirit…you were all amazing, and everyone else knew it.

Anyway, that’s all of this kind of discussion I want on here today. I liked the last two days of comments much better, and want to get back to that flow.

May God give us all greater understanding.

Jesus Christ is Lord.

Anonymous said...

Just got this in an e-mail and it sort of goes along with today 2 pic words.

What goes around comes around

The man slowly looked up. This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new. She looked like that she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.

'Leave me alone,' he growled.

To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows.' Are you hungry?' she asked. 'No,' he answered sarcastically. 'I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away.' The woman's smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm.

'What are you doing, lady?' the man asked angrily. 'I said to leave me alone.

Just then a policeman came up. 'Is there any problem, ma'am?' he asked.

'No problem here, officer,' the woman answered. 'I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?'

The officer scratched his head. 'That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?'

'See that cafeteria over there?' she asked. 'I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile.'

'Are you crazy, lady?' the homeless man resisted. 'I don't want to go in there!' Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up.

'Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything.'

'This is a good deal for you, Jack,' the officer answered. 'Don't blow it.'

Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived. The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table.

'What's going on here, officer?' he asked. 'What is all this. Is this man in trouble?'

'This lady brought this man in here to be fed,' the policeman answered.

'Not in here!' the manager replied angrily. 'Having a person like that here is bad for business.'

Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. 'See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place.'

The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled. 'Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?'

'Of course I am,' the manager answered impatiently. 'They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms.'

'And do you make a goodly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?'

'What business is that of yours?'
'I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company.'

'Oh'

The woman smiled again. 'I thought that might make a difference' She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. 'Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?'

'No thanks, ma'am,' the officer replied. 'I'm on duty.'

'Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?'

'Yes, ma'am. That would be very nice.'

The cafeteria manager turned on his heel 'I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer.'

The officer watched him walk away. 'You certainly put him in his place,' he said.

'That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this.' She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest She stared at him intently. 'Jack, do you remember me?'

Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes 'I think so -- I mean you do look familiar.'

'I'm a little older perhaps,' she said. 'Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry.'

'Ma'am?' the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry.

'I was just out of college, the woman began. 'I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat.'

Jack lit up with a smile. 'Now I remember,' he said. 'I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy'

'I know,' the woman continued. 'Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble. Then, when I looked over, I saw you put t he price of my food in the cash register I knew then that everything would be all right.'

'So you started your own business?' Old Jack said.

'I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business, that, with the help of God, prospered.
She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. 'When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office.' She smiled. 'I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet.

If you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you.'

There were tears in the old man's eyes. 'How can I ever thank you? ' he said.

'Don't thank me,' the woman answered. 'To God goes the glory.
Thank Jesus... He led me to you.'

Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways. 'Thank you for all your help, officer,' she said.

'On the contrary, Ms. Eddy,' he answered. 'Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget. And... And thank you for the coffee.'

If you have missed knowing me, you have missed nothing. If you have missed some of my emails, you might have missed a laugh.

But, if you have missed knowing my LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST, you have missed everything in the world.

Have a Wonderful Day. May God Bless You Always. And don't forget that when you
'cast your bread upon the waters,' you never know how it will be returned to you.

(Hope this is repeated many times today!)

God is so big He can cover the whole world with his Love and so
small He can curl up inside your heart.















~ Mar Kirk

Erik said...

Hi Anons,

517 and 528 . Peace and Love.

The pouring of the bowls of water into the larger bowl represents many things, all blessed. One is a display of the many membered body, each unique experience of God, then all as One Body, but unique, like Paul wrote about. (Ear and the pancreas are very different, very different perspectives and functions, probably could not understand the other, but both important, unique, parts of the same body and the blood touches every part).

Sometimes the perception of The Christ ‘ The Body’ ( which encompasses everything) is seen only from the perspective of one part. The ear knows the body from its own connection, and that is OK, it does not diminish the pancreas’ view. Remember, there is no definition that fully describes The Christ, indefinable. The Christ includes every relationship with God that we have ever heard, and many more we have not. The Universe is really big, and The Christ is limitless.

Tue night was a celebration of unique parts of The Body. Jesus is the human manifestation, portrait in one physical body, but is not all that is Christ. All that is Christ is everything you can see, touch, think of, believe in, taste, smell, and hear, and more. Remember, Jesus made way for The Spirit of God, The Holy Spirit, Jesus came before that display of the manifestation of The Holy Spirit. The Spirit already existed and was long present within us, remember Jesus told the Pharisees The Kingdom of God was even within them. The ear and the pancreas do not need to use the same words, dress, style to share the Joy of The Body, because the blood that runs through every part, The Spirit of God, connects them in peace. The knowledge of God fills every crook and cranny of existence.

We celebrated The Whole Body , parts that were there and parts that were not, Tue night. Freely in each our own vision, and together in the same Spirit. That is The Christ. See, every knee does bow, and tongue confess, we all know The Christ in whatever perception. We each are a part, in each unique and valid way.

The water in the Spirit and the physical) was some of the holiest water most of us have probably ever been part of, because The Body, The Christ was re membered , mixed, multi unique parts in harmony, experienced as One . That is The Kingdom of Heaven, that we brought to earth as it is in Heaven. It is available every second of every day. God’s will IS done on Earth as it is in heaven.

Son of Zadok said...

Isn't the only bad question the one not asked. Bishop, you stretch our faith, but sometimes a sore muscle needs a little massage. It's all good.

Anonymous said...

It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see.

Henry Davis Thoreau

tracy said...

Good response Bishop, although not necessary. I knew when I got on the blog this morning it wasn't going to be who likes tomatoes and who doesn't kind of day! Tuesday was so powerful that a few naysayers or excessively curious or just plain old religious comments could never dampen the effects of it on my spirit and the spirits of the majority represented. It will stand to be one of the most inspired and enlightening events of my life. So thanks again for opening the door to our "tent" and welcoming ALL of God's people.

Anonymous said...

I thought GPF meant Global Peace Festival, a festival about global peace. And to think that I thought the water in the individual bowls meant each ones agreement to world peace, and that the pouring of each ones bowl into the big bowl was that each one was agreeing with the vision of world peace, and that each participants beliefs had nothing to do with anything except that they were all coming together as one, only in the agreement for peace. I am shocked that I missed it. My bad.

Anonymous said...

Amen to what Tracy said.
Sissiedo

Anonymous said...

Anon. at 12:51 am. I am aware that you wrote Dear Bishop, but you probably know that your blog went over www and therefore, I would like to speak to some of your concerns or questions.

You state that we are supposed to be a a church where the HOLY SPIRIT dwells...please allow me to address this. Let me say, that I know (I am intimate with) the evidence that the Holy Spirit abides in the CITN because we have this treasure in earthen vessels. In other words, the Holy Spirit is there because He lives in us...thus the song, He lives in you.

I am not sure how long you have been a member of church in the now, but Bishop ministered 5 or 6 years ago "Encountering the Dance with the Holy Spirit"...I think that is the title, I may have embellished the name for my purposes, but please believe me it is not intentional. Maybe the dance was with God...but I am sure after my explanation you will understand the point.

Anyway, Bishop says sometimes you can lead, "if you establish a thing, God will decree it"..I am paraphasing. Other times God is saying "to follow Him because He is doing more than we can hope or imagine". In other words sometimes we totally don't know what God is up to so we have to in blind faith, follow Jesus, trusting and never taking our eyes off the author and finisher of our faith.

There are other times, because we are as gods (small g) in the earth and we are creators, God has given us the authority to lead and to walk in the dominion He has given us.

So I liken it to the Holy Spirit. Pr. Debye nor Bishop nor anyone else need to pray with fire for the Holy Spirit to be present. He is....the I AM. He just Is in the NOW.

That takes me to some of my understanding of the Holy Ghost. First let me say, we are a spirit, we live in a body and we have a soul.

The Holy Spirit has been present in church in the now with a tangible fire that healed me instantly when I entered the doors. His healing anointing was there.

Other times I experience a tingling, especially in my left arm, HIS SPIRIT, which lets me know that He has anointed me to heal. Now remember, It is all the Holy Spirit.

There are times I enter the sanctuary and there is such a heaviness in the spirit that the Holy Spirit gives me a unction for deep intercession. Sometimes he compells me to go to intercessory pray because of the groanings He places in my belly. It is then my job to go into the sanctuary and ask for an exchange for heaviness for a garment of praise. This is all the H.S. work.

There are times when the Holy Spirit gives me all of the prophetic and revelatory gifts for a particular body like in prison ministry that is so evident that the guards are being slain and healed and time stands still as He uses me to lay hands on and opens eyes (literally and spiritually).

In my own life, there have been times that I have been literally walking through hell (very recently) and the Holy Spirit will give me an open vision of what is going on in the spirit and this overwhelming peace which is His manifestation of the Prince of Peace.

My mom had open heart surgery a couple of years ago and it was canceled a couple of times, and we were all very concerned for her very life. The morning of the surgery, The Holy Spirit gave the entire family this overwhelming peace and I knew that the Prince of Peace was very tangible with her and the entire family. Everyone of us in different states felt that same peace that surpassed our understanding. I knew it was well. I actually went to work that day and my colleagues were amazed at the peace that was on me. It was all Him.

The Holy Spirit uses visions and dreams, and word of knowledge and word of wisdom and prophecy, and healings and miracles and the spirit of counsel and tongues, the interpretation of tongues and sometimes He will use the wind.

I believe the Holy Spirit is behind the "shaken" that the earth, the economy, wall street, main street has been experiencing, especially in this season we are going through. He is the wind and He can and does cause havoc.

Now please don't misunderstand, because the Lord is good but He is the true husbandman and the true vine as opposed to the pharisical vine. He is still known to shake it up from time to time. It is all part of His plan and His plans are good (Jeremiah 29:11)

So, in making the point about the Holy Spirit (apparently I can write a book about His different manfiestations, just in my life alone), He is there, He was there and He is...The AM.

I guess what I am saying is we can't always define him by fire because we really can only describe Him because he is beyond defining.

In regards to the Nation of Worship, I know our choir has that name, but did it ever occur to you that we "CITN" body, is "The Nation of Worship?

In the house on Tuesday, many many nations were represented. And after all, we speak to nations...so I declare to you...BE FREE.

Electricity for some is a matter of perception.

You are aware that perception is specific to your own paradigms, your family, your culture, your religion, your socio-economic background, your filters...etc. I was personally electified before I got there, so I brought the electricity.

On the second question, Bishop and Pr. Debye and CITN was hosting the GPF. Think about the times you have hosted. You are serving, not being served so normally the host or hostess has a different role than the guest.

I believe that the interfaith water exchange was symbolic of good will and peace which would line up with the gospel as the angelic hosts sung at Jesus birth.

One more thing about prayer, I believe as long as the Holy Spirit is evident, the pray can be a whisper, and tongues or even in a thought when we understand that so a man thinketh in his heart...so is he.

One time when I was at the Youth Detention Center in Gwinnett, a young woman approached me after service and was shy about what she wanted to tell me.

Well, after entreating her for a couple of minutes, she leaned over and whispered in my ear, to pray for her suicide. I asked her what she meant, (buying time as I was afraid at what her answer would be) and then she told me she had been on suicide watch and has repeatedly tried to kill herself because she had been molested by her mother's boyfriend and yet she blamed her mother because her mother didn't detect it.

Wow, what was I, in my finite existence going to do with that prayer request.

I hugged her and prayed in the spirit very gently and I pleaded with the Holy Spirit to help her for my sake, for His name sake. And guess what, the Holy Spirit filled that room in such a powerful way, we could barely stand. The guards wept and we were all in awe to feel the tangible evidence of God's spirit. The holy spirit came into that room and did a healing for this young woman. To God be the glory. I was only a vessel, but with God's spirit, she was touched by His spirit.

The next month when I returned, she had reconciled with her mom, gone home and they took her off of suicide watch and she had returned to school.

So my dear brother or sister from 12:57 am, we can entreat the holy spirit in different ways and we must remember never ever to think that God or God's people will fit into our way of thinking or doing things because His thoughts and way are so much higher than our ways.

Your questions are good and thought provoking and I pray that you receive them with a whole heart, and that God gets the glory.

I know Bishop will probably have a different take but I pray that answered some aspects of your questions.

Water Walker

vaughn said...

Let me say, I think questions are good because then there can be answers. Bishop has been asking all week, What do you think? and the responses were not forthcoming but somebody put the krunk in our tank (LOL)

I believe that answers are always there residing within us because God is in us. So this is good, what a blog is suppose to be. Just remember blogs worketh by love.

This the best dialogue we have had since the GPF and I think it is cool that the initial blog of the day, caused the bloggers to get on their A game.

Come on guys, you have to admit, a a little spice goes a long way.

Vaughn Evan

NTL said...

donald,
You two better come to GA quick,
it's getting out of hand. And you best bring your big belt.

Erik said...

SOZ ,

Thanks for posting Pastor Dennis’ blog entry. Yes and Amen!

Anon 1231 -

Yes, you are right, it is about agreeing on Peace. Yes, it is about Love, all Loving each other. Embracing in The Spirit, Enjoying The Peace that we are all part of the same Body, each focus echoes the other. God is the substance that everyone and every , government, culture, expressions of faith are made of. We are at peace with God, and each other, - that is celebrated. The power of agreement in the Spirit and The Natural, in and for Peace, as you saw the bowls represented. For the deepest Peace and connection, of course each person overtly connects with God as they add agreement. That is the Peace that passes any natural understanding, and enhances natural peace, because it is Super Natural – natural and more.

Donald said...

NTL, I had a feeling it was going to get to this.
OK, let me check my calendar and see when I can get up there and wade around in some of this good stuff.

Linda Luke said...

Hiya all~

Was wandering whether to post this or not on the Nile pic...anyways here goes.

I don't know if it means anything or not?...but it's interestig (at least to me).

A little over 5 years ago I met Rahab. (Biship I am sure you remember she and her sister from Nairobi Kenya)I instantly connected with her and as she was a newcomer down here in South Georgia I asked her where she went to church because I was going to invite her to mine. With her accent I thought she said 'Church In The Nile'. I am like I have never heard of Church In The Nile, where is it? She is like ...Church In The NOW in Conyers. I thought this was rather cool when I saw the your picture on the Nile and the comments about Church On The Nile.

Anyhow...BLESSINGS everyone!~PEaCe~

~we're each here for 'such a time as this~!

Linda Luke said...

ps...thanks for the reminder show to others the kindness, love, mercy, grace, etc...that we (I) want shown to me as well as the only opinion that really matters is~GODS!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cRecHK4isw

...is a super touching video!

~chill

Friend4Life said...

Hey Bishop!! One question I have for you today...How are you doing? ((smile)) Maybe we need to put the tomato sign up again..LOL

"A Couple of Very Good Ideas"--those 2 Ideas every-1 needs to follow. The God one really spoke to me today.

Thanks again 4 doing what u do, Bishop!!

Peace & LOVE <33,
~L.W.~

NTL said...

To late in the season for tomatoes,
but pumpkins are in.

Son of Zadok said...

Beautiful crownjewel...

A Prayer.....

Foreigner - I Want To Know What Love Is

A great scene in this video at 2:58

youtube.com/watch?v=z9OGfBGOCpk

I gotta take a little time
A little time to think things over
I better read between the lines
In case I need it when I'm older

Now this mountain I must climb
Feels like a world upon my shoulders
I through the clouds I see love shine
It keeps me warm as life grows colder

In my life theres been heartache and pain
I don't know if I can face it again
Cant stop now, Ive traveled so far
To change this lonely life

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

Im gonna take a little time
A little time to look around me
Ive got nowhere left to hide
It looks like love has finally found me

In my life theres been heartache and pain
I don't know if I can face it again
I cant stop now, Ive traveled so far
To change this lonely life

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
And I wanna feel, I want to feel what love is
And I know, I know you can show me

Lets talk about love
I wanna know what love is, the love that you feel inside
I want you to show me, and Im feeling so much love
I wanna feel what love is, no, you just cannot hide
I know you can show me, yeah

I wanna know what love is, lets talk about love
I want you to show me, I wanna feel it too
I wanna feel what love is, I want to feel it too
And I know and I know, I know you can show me
Show me love is real, yeah
I wanna know what love is...

Linda Luke said...

....ps...thought after i posted how this may have sounded...chill NOT meant to anyone~chill is what I am doing! (you know like u mood on myspace~chill) just wanted to clarify~

G8TRGRL said...

MY tomato plants are still producing... Pastor Margo knows...

Erik-- love, love your narrative; I definitely have some friends who could stand to read it...

... and as far as the water from Tuesday goes. My oldest, in his 11 year old wisdom just today at lunch said, "yea, Mom, and if at night you wake up from a bad dream, you could open up and put some on your pillow so you can sleep in PEACE".

For me, it is a touchstone and a reminder to pray for peace, our family, our humanity-- similar to what Rev. Swilley said in his closing.

(btw--I do have to admit, the holy water thing stirred that catholic girl familiar spirit for AN INSTANT; then I shook off mom-an-'em and saw it for the unity it represents)

... and another thing-- was it just me, or was the Rabbi telling us to "live long and prosper" with his hands? (Trekkies, you get it).

Happy Friday!
ttfn

Anonymous said...

Hey everybody,
I am a confessed blurker, but today I have to speak up for CITN, my Bishop and P. Debye. I attended the GPF and I must say it completley changed my vision from the inside out. I will never see anybody I look at the same. From the water, to the "He Lives In You" song, then ending with our AWESOME N.O.W. singing We Speak To Nations. Other than personal family events in my life NOthing has changed my perspective on life and everyone in it more than that night. Although I do agree that people have the right to their opinion or their outlook on that night, they also have to be prepared for the backlash that may come with it. Especially when you are on this site knowing there are so many people here who LOVE, RESPECT and TRUST Bishop, P Debye and everything they stand for. I just had to give my 2cents worth. Ya know when somebody is talking about your mama or daddy, it kinda stirs something up in ya! I am open to hearing others opinions as long as mine can be heard as well.

I thought this was interesting too, we just got back from seeing Beverly Hills Chihuahua, and one part in the movie all the Chihuahuas were together and the sort of leader of them said something like this "there are all kinds of different sizes, colors and breeds of Chihuahuas and they all look different, but if you look past that and see into our souls we are all more alike than you see on the outside" My kids got that and said, so thats what you were trying to tell us about Tuesday night, and I simply said Yes!

PEACE!!! Shara

Son of Zadok said...

Yo Quiero Taco Bell !

Larry Usher said...

"I found a new way of living.
I found a new life divine.
I have the fruit of the Spirit.
Abiding, abiding in the vine. Abiding in the vine, abiding in the vine.
Love, joy, health, peace, He has made them mine.
I have prosperity, power and victory, abiding, abiding in the vine."

Just a song from yesteryears I was meditating on & singing today.

Love God and your neighbor as yourself...and the world as we knew it melted before us...

Larry

word ver: OAYXU- Open And Yearning Xciting Uganda...

Anonymous said...

I put the water(from the GPF) on my forehead this morning during prayer for healing and yep you guessed it. I WAS HEALED... Completely. I was very sick and couldnt work and felt the Holy Spirit speak to use the water sitting on my desk, so, I anointed myself with it. It is Holy Water. I dont know. Pretty cool huh?

Ebony said...

I go Blog MIA for a few days and miss a lot of stuff. As far as the GPF goes, too many times churches say they want "interfaith dialogue" and for us to "come now and reason together", but there are always provisos, quid pro quo and other things attached ((as long as you agree I'm right and you're wrong). And there's just too much of that in the world right now. I think it's awesome that for one night we can put that aside. And I in no way shape or form feel as if the gospel was compromised. If anything, more people will probably say "maybe Christians aren't as judgemental as I thought" or "They let me be who I am there, and I like that" That was one of the things my friends who visit CITN love about it is the diversity there.What's especially beautiful was the reconciling of mothers who lost children to gang violence. I saw an HBO special a few months ago where the mother of an israeli girl killed in a suicide bombing wanted to talk to the mother of the Palestinian girl who initiated the attack to tell her "there was no reason for our daughters to die", the Palestinian mother met with her, but felt that her daughter died fighting for something she believed in, and refused to see things from the Israeli mother's point of view. It was at that moment I thought that the notion of "peace in the middle east" was a pipe dream we wouldn't see this side of eternity (or until the post rapture/tribulation millenial reign, whichever came first).If you can't unite in grief, what can you unite on? Now with nights like tyhe GPF service, it's giving me second thoughts.

Ebony

"Many people know Him, but they do not know His name. Many people know His name, but they do not know Him"- Bishop J.E. Swilley

linda said...

Good Evening Bish and bloggers,

I am still reliving the GPF every spare moment that I have. The two ladies testimonies were amazing to me. That is truly God.
Thank you Bishop for your vision.

Let there be light

Linda

Unknown said...

Re: you "Approved this Message"! Funny…thanks for the SMILE!
Pics seem prophetic for the day too…


“Be more concerned with what God thinks about me than what people think about me”---I've been pondering the importance of this as it relates to an understanding of the Body of Christ. If the “body” is limited to a local tabernacle of believers [for discussion’s sake] for me this admonition takes on an importance I hadn’t considered before. (I apologize in advance for this “semi-developed” pondering—but its what I’ve got for now.)

This year I have had eyes to see and ears to hear the body of Christ at CITN ministering to me regarding a physical need. Mostly, there have been no “discordant” words, only healing words. [Thank you, Father, I’m guessing you knew I needed a base to work from and I thank You, again, for this place that You are building and protecting.]

There have been amazing confirmations, especially in the beginning, but now they are mostly “small confirmations”, usually unknown to the speaker and as is often the case with a confirmation, a bit difficult to explain the intricate connections. But they have consistently arrived to bless me and keep me on track. I collect, ponder and draw strength from them for the walk of faith and not sight. They are God’s words coming to me through the Body and it is very, VERY cool.

So, the point is—for me, what people think, and say, I really ponder—listening for God. And just thinking about the possibility of “discordant words” (words I can easily imagine coming from my previous church associations)…is making me want to more frequently say to the Holy Spirit, “Set a guard over my lips!”--and do unto others as I would have them do unto me.

So, starting this morning, and now well into the evening, I’m thankful, Bishop, for two very good ideas for sailin' my vessel--until we all come to a full understanding of the unity of the Body of Christ.

Day Early Happy Birthday, Blog!

[okay, that was cool--Decided to check the front page--Elvis' song was first up! and happens to be sandwiched between Garth and Twila. Amazing.]

tracy said...

I often ask Bailey her take on things going on because so many times she has something really cool to say and a very unblemished take on things. So......I am getting her hair brushed and getting her jammies on for bed and I say Bailey-if I have a bowl of water and Dad has a bowl of water and Jesus has a bowl of water and the devil has a bowl of water and everybody we know-even the people different from us have a bowl of water and we mix all the water together what do we get? And she goes "a birthday cake". Weird Avatar should refer to a birthday!

Unknown said...

On the road--had to pull over to say, tell Bailey I love her!!

Anonymous said...

Perhaps Love

Perhaps love is like a resting place
A shelter from the storm
It exists to give you comfort
It is there to keep you warm
And in those times of trouble
When you are most alone
The memory of love will bring you home

Perhaps love is like a window
Perhaps an open door
It invites you to come closer
It wants to show you more
And even if you lose yourself
And don`t know what to do
The memory of love will see you through

Oh, love to some is like a cloud
To some as strong as steel
For some a way of living
For some a way to feel
And some say love is holding on
And some say letting go
And some say love is everything
And some say they don`t know

Perhaps love is like the ocean
Full of conflict, full of pain
Like a fire when it`s cold outside
Or thunder when it rains
If I should live forever
And all my dreams come true
My memories of love will be of you

Anonymous said...

INTERESTING INDEED. BY THEIR FRUITS, THEY SHALL BE KNOWN. WE NEED TO BE MANIFESTING FRUITS OF LOVE, PATIENCE AND PEACE ESPECIALLY WITH THOSE WHO DONT UNDERSTAND SOME THINGS AND WANT TO KNOW BY ASKING. THAT IS HOW WE GROW BY HELPING ONE ANOTHER AND THAT IS WHY I BLOG HERE. TO KNOW THAT I AM FREE TO EXPRESS MYSELF IS TRUE FREEDOM. EVERYBODY'S IN PUT IS GOOD AND INDICATIVE OF WHERE WE ARE. NO ONE IS WRONG OR RIGHT. AS I SAID EARLIER, TUESDAY NIGHT WILL BE A CONTINUES REVELATION TO ME AND TO SOME OF US TOO. THE CHURCH OF GOD IS MARCHING ON, I AM MARCHING ALONG, TO GLORY TO GLORY, AMEN.WITH LOVE, MERCY.

NTL said...

Mercy,
May the Lord bless you and keep you in all your ways, and may everything you touch, including the hearts of the saints, be blessed. Peace be unto you, and all that is yours. I thank the Lord for that warrior spirit that dwells in you. You are an awesome person of God.

Son of Zadok said...

Is today going to top the great tomato post? How many comments was that 73?

Anonymous said...

74

Larry Usher said...

The two moms at the GPF were definitely water walkers, walking on the water of the Spirit of Love...no denying it, no containing it, no explaining it...it just is- and it is GOOD!

Blessings, peace & joy,

Larry

...where exactly is that shoreline? I thought I had sight of it a minute ago...


word ver: QCVAJI- Queer Connections Validate A Jesus Idealogy

Anonymous said...

To those of you who are gossiping about the Bishop and this house because of the involvement with the Global Peace Festival,
There was not one person in the meeting on this past Tuesday that God, the creator of creation did not create, with the same thought in mind that He created each one of you who is doing the gossiping.
There is not a one of you who is any better (by any means) than anyone who attended the metting.
This was a meeting of global peace and the enemy is using you to tear down what God has brought together by love.
I ask everyone of you who has been doing the gossiping to repent from this wicked way, in the name of Jesus.
By your own choosing, you left this house and yet you continue to "check in".
I wish you had it in you to just come back, because if you didn't wish you were back then you wouldn't be "checking in".
I know it, you know it and God knows it.

Erik said...

Mercy,

Amen.

Friend4Life said...

Happy "8th" MONTH Anniversary, BITN!!

Good night, B;B;B;NO;MB (Bishop,bloggers,blurkers,night owls, morning birds) ((smile))

2DAY IS A NEW DAY--"REJOICE, REJOICE, EMMANUEL"; "SHALL COME TO THEE, O ISRAEL"--been listening to Christmas music>>((F4L is JOYFUL))