Back to Work With Joy!

We can best celebrate the birth of Jesus by returning to our every day duties with joy! This is what the shepherds did.  The shepherds had just seen angels, heard their marvelous music, and had seen the Christ child. After all this, we read that they "returned glorifying and praising God...." With joy the shepherds returned to their common, everyday duties of attending sheep. Christian joy, unlike worldly joy, fits one for duty. This is because Christ brings joy; Christ brings joy into the performance of duty.  He gives strength for the assignment because the joy of the Lord is our strength.

No doubt as they went about their tasks, those shepherds were joyful a very long time, if not the rest of their lives thinking about what they had witnessed. Shepherds were the least in the community, and were relegated to work on the outskirts of town because of the smelly, dirty job they did tending sheep. That they would be visited by angelic hosts, that the LORD would reveal himself as a baby to the likes of them, oh, what joy!  We should understand that Jesus doesn't come in "showy" ways, but in "lowly" ways. He was born not in a palace or a mansion, but in a stable in a manager.   He appeared not before kings and dignitaries, but before shepherds in a field. He came to extend peace and goodwill not just to certain pious people, but to all people (v14).  You can return back to work filled with joy not just after Christmas and the holidays, but on Mondays and on any day of the week knowing Jesus Christ was born. And because he was born, died and rose again, salvation is available to all who trust in him.  Jesus appeared to shepherds tending sheep, and He can show up on our jobs, even at school, on any day at any time in answer to prayer. He is Jehovah Shammah, the Lord who is present.  His name is Jesus, the hope of the world (Matt. 12:21).  His name is Immanuel, God with us (Matt. 1:23)   His name is Jesus, the One who saves his people from their sins (Matt. 1:21)!  Jesus saves!

Jesus Saves Ministries' Fifth Annual Hope Food Baskets Giveaway

This Thanksgiving, we experienced the blessed joy in giving. We held our fifth annual Thanksgiving Hope Food Basket Giveaway on Monday, November 20th at The Life Conference Suite, distributing 52 food baskets with turkeys, chicken, and all the trimmings, plus turkey/ham vouchers to additional families in need.  We are thankful not because we are so good, but because God is so good.  He deserves ALL the glory! 
Churches, ministries, organizations worked together supplying food, turkeys and financial support including coordinating ministry, Jesus Saves Ministries,  The Church of Truth, Broadway Temple AME Zion Baptist Church, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Dare to Care Food Bank,  Withers Academy of Music,  Old Testament Exegesis, and WLOU Radio.  Thank you to volunteers Minister Marian Anderson, Pastor Emery Lee, and Deacon Jerome Price for their service to our families in this initiative. 
This is a major give back for us because in one day we were able to feed as many families as we have fed between January and October 2017 through our Food Pantry at The Life Conference Suite.  It is our mandate to be a change agent in West Louisville offering life, love, faith, and hope to residence who need it the most. HOPE has been defined as Having Only Positive Expectations. It is our prayer that through efforts like this, each of us can do our part to share the hope of Jesus Christ and to offer hope to those in need.  Keep watching for our Christmas Food Basket Giveaway in association with Liberty Tabernacle Church at The Life Conference Suite.  Sincerely, Min. Angela Lee Price

Showing Gratitude in An Ungrateful World

Have you ever heard people say "thank you" insincerely because its the politically correct thing to say, or as if to way to end a conversation, "you may go," or "you're dismissed"?  There is a difference between Godly and worldly thanks.  With worldly thanks, there is no "holler up" to God as the provider of all things, and neither is there "follow up" with actions commensurate with the sincerity of our hearts.  In an ungrateful world, entitlement reigns supreme.  Very few say thank you because they believe they're supposed to get to what blessings they receive.  Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one, a foreigner, a Samaritan returned to say thank you.  Jesus asked the whereabouts of the other nine, then told the one, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well" (Luke 17: 11-17).
As believers, we ought be thankful to God not just at Thanksgiving, but at all times. David said in Psalms 34, "I will bless the Lord at ALL times.  His praises shall continually be in my mouth...."  All ten lepers were cleansed, but only one was cleansed and made well. Don't miss the blessing of thanksgiving. Psalm 107 states, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.  Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, those he redeemed from the hand of the enemy." And Hebrews, 12:28 states, "Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our 'God is a consuming fire.'"   What are you thankful to God for?  Let there be "follow up," with your "holler up."  Jesus saves!

Verse of the Day: Colossians 3:15

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15 NIV http://bible.com/111/col.3.15.NIV

Book of 1 Timothy Review

Observe the Sabbath

The Spirit-Filled Heart

Highlights from Laughter Is Good Medicine

Simmons College of Kentucky ABHE Site Visit 08/31 by Jesus Saves LIVE | Religion Podcasts

What were you doing on this day in history?  This is a memory from August 31, 2009.  I thought I would repost on this last day of August 2017.  The Lord has brought Simmons College of Kentucky a mighty long way! 



Simmons College of Kentucky ABHE Site Visit 08/31 by Jesus Saves LIVE | Religion Podcasts: My guest is Rev. Frank Smith, Executive Vice President, Simmons College of Kentucky to talk about the school's ABHE site visit toward obtaining candidacy status in accreditation process; plus Jesus Saves Ministries celebrates 4th anniversary with $500 academic scholarship to Simmons Collge Student, Rev. Eileen Little and more!

Join Jesus Saves Ministries at Christian Health Care Center West, August 27th

Join Jesus Saves Ministries as we worship with the residents of Christian Health Care Center West on Sunday, August 27th, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM. CHCCW is located at 1015 W. Magazine Street in Louisville, KY. Rev. Michael Lee, Chaplain.

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Jesus Saves 12 Anniversary Video Greeting from Ange Canessa, Lexington, KY

Praise the Lord, Everybody! We have had an awesome 12th Anniversary Appreciation Luncheon on Saturday, August 12th! Several ministry partners sent video greetings, like this one from Ange Canessa, Lexington, KY! Thanks also to my sister, Jackie, (Jay Lee), Columbia, MD, and Maurice Jackson, Kansas City, MO who also sent greetings! Jesus saves!

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Jesus Saves 12 Anniversary Video Greeting from Jackie Lee, Columbia, MD

Jesus Saves Ministries partners and supporters from Columbia, Maryland, Kansas City and Lexington, Kentucky sent video greetings that were shared at our anniversary celebration on Saturday, August 12th. This one is from my sister Jackie, Jay Lee, from Columbia, Maryland. We bless God for her participation, prayer, and partnership over 12 years of evangelistic outreach! Jesus saves!

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Jesus Saves Celebrated 12 Years of Ministry with Appreciation Luncheon August 12th

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Min. Angela to Speak at Women of Promise & Praise Conference in Memphis, TN

Just super excited about traveling to Memphis later this month with Rev. Syvoskia Bray Pope and Rev. Lashonda Fletcher to speak at the Women of Promise & Praise Conference, and help celebrate their 10th Anniversary. Rev. Sheilah Easterling-Smith and her team have put together an awesome program that includes not only the preached word, but also impactful session speakers, and praise & worship! There's still time to register for this conference!

Haste Has No Blessing

By: Min. Angela Lee Price

Haste Has No Blessing!

Proverbs 2: 1-7
(V1) “My child, listen to me and treasure my instruction.
(V2) Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding.
( V3) Cry out for insight and understanding.

(V4) Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure.
(V5) Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God.
(V6) For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

(V7) He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly.” (NLT)

Our society has become conditioned to want things quick, fast, and in a hurry. We give a little and expect to receive a lot. However, an African proverb says, “Haste has no blessing.” Proverbs chapter 2 makes it clear that the “quick-fast-and-in-a-hurry” and the “give-a-little-receive-a lot” philosophies of life are not the ways of God.

Some things, such as gaining wisdom, knowledge, and understanding require considerable time, trust, prayer, and effort. In the opening verses of Proverbs chapter 2, we learn to “listen,” “treasure,” “tune,” “concentrate,” “cry out,” and “search,” for insight and understanding (vs. 1-4). We are to apply serious attention and devotion to the task. We are to give our all to knowing who God is. The Bible says when you do this, “then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. (V5)”

Are you giving more of yourself to the God who has given His all for you? Listen and treasure divine instruction. Tune your ears to wisdom. Concentrate on God’s Word. Cry out continually in prayer. Search the scriptures daily. The Lord grants knowledge, wisdom and understanding (V 6-7) to those who diligently search for it, and that is a treasure of good sense (V 7), a treasure worth seeking.

Jesus Is The Way

By:  Min. Angela Lee Price

Jesus told his disciples in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the father except through me."  Jesus had just finished supper in the upper room with them when he gave us one of His very greatest gospel texts
. 

In my sanctified imagination, Thomas must have been overwhelmed and in a daze!  Jesus had already shared so much, that Judas would betray him for 30 pieces of silver; that Peter would deny him three times.  Then, Jesus declared He was going to heaven, and they were extremely concerned.  In John 14:  1-4, Jesus declared He was going to heaven.  And yet he told his disciples, “do not be troubled (v1).  Believers ought not be troubled today despite all that is going on in the world, and here’s why. First, we can take God at His Word.     When Jesus said, "Trust in God, and trust also in me,"  he was reminding his disciples to trust in God's Word (v.1).  Scripture had  spoken of Jesus' impending crucifixion and his resurrection.  Sometimes we miss important information when circumstances become overwhelming.  We must remember  to trust God's Word. Secondly, We can trust in Jesus. Jesus is the Logos, the Word made flesh who dwelt among us.  The Word was with God and the Word was God in the beginning (John 1:1-2). Jesus is God.  What is true of the Father is also true of the Son.  That is why it's important to study the written Word of God so that we can learn more about the incarnate Word of God, Jesus. Jesus said in Matt. 24:35, Heaven and earth will pass away;  but my words will never pass away." 

Not only can we trust in God and trust in Jesus, but the benefit of that trust is  everlasting life for the believer.  Believers are going to heaven. Heaven is not a state of mind (Rev. 21).  Heaven is a  place prepared personally by Jesus who said, "I am going to prepare a place for you" (v2). Finally,  Jesus is coming back for us.  Notice, Jesus said, "I will come and get you."  Jesus is not merely going to send for us.  He is going to personally escort us to the Father's house!  Isn't that good news?!  The Bible tells us to "encourage each other with these words" (1 Thessalonians 4:18).  In heaven, there will be no more fear, death, pain, or sorrow.

Thomas caught the tail end of his statement.  Jesus said, You know the way to the place where I am going" (v4).  Thomas must have woke up.  "We don't know where you are going,"  he blurted out, "How can we know the way? (v5)  Jesus then provided answers to three pertinent questions that have continued to be sought out by  the lost, the learned, and the longing down through the ages.  Those questions are "How can I be saved?", "How can I be sure?", and "How can I be satisfied?"

For lost people, Jesus answers the question, "How can I be saved?  He says, "I am the way, No one comes to the Father except through me" (v6). Jesus clearly explains that the only ones who will enter heaven will be those who have accepted him as the way, the truth, and the life - not the people who have performed the greatest number of deeds.  Jesus does not tell them about the way, nor does He show them the way.  He does not even guide them along the way.  He says He is the way!

For the learned, Jesus answers the question, "How can I be sure?"  He says, “I am the truth.”   Everything that is true of God the Father is true of me.  Jesus replied to Thomas, "he who has seen me, has seen the Father" (v9). You can be sure when you put faith in Jesus Christ. 

The word "truth" is used in Scripture in two ways:  true as contrasted with false; and genuine as contrasted with unreal.  Although both apply to God, when we speak of the truth of God, normally His genuineness is contrasted with false gods of other religions.  The Scriptures declare Jesus as the one true God (John 1:1-2; John 17:3).  There are no attributes of deity that the Jesus does not possess.  Jesus is the only way to have a relationship  with God (Romans 10:9; Acts 12:4; John 3:16). 

For the longing who ask, "How can I be satisfied?, Jesus said, “I am the life,” that is, life in eternity and life on earth.  In fact, John 14:6 is one of the seven “I AM” statements of Jesus in the book of John. He is bread when you are hungry and water when you are thirsty.   He is the light of the world,  the door, the Good Shepherd, the resurrection and the life, and the true vine. 

In John 10:10, he stated, "I have come that you may have life and have it more abundantly," in other words, until you are satisfied.

The reason we can have relationship with God the Father is because Jesus paid the penalty for our sins on the Cross.  Jesus died, and rose again which is the Resurrection is all about.  Yes, Jesus is the way!  Not only is Jesus Christ the only way to eternal life, He is the only way to abundant life.  Salvation, deliverance, healing, and spiritual growth cannot come any other way except, through Jesus Christ. He is the way!

 

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Jesus Saves Ministries 12th Anniversary Celebration

It is hard to believe, but Jesus Saves Ministries, Louisville will be celebrating 12 years of ministry beginning in August. Truly, we have come this far by faith leaning and depending on the Lord! We could not have done ministry for 12 years without the many people, friends and family, the Lord has sent our way, who have connected with us in sharing the message that Jesus saves.  The first of two anniversary events will take place on Saturday, August 12th, our actual anniversary date, and the second on Saturday, September 9th. Not only are we celebrating the 12th anniversary for Jesus Saves Ministries, but also it is the fourth anniversary on August 16th for out meeting facility, The Life Conference Suite. So, this is a special invitation to our friends in ministry, family, and faithful supporters to join us for one or both events. It's our way of saying thank you and showing love to you for your kindness as volunteers, ministry partners, and contributors to Jesus Saves Ministries.   Our guest speaker at the appreciation luncheon will be the dynamic Rev. Tina Patterson, the newly appointed Pastor of Mosaic United Methodist Church, Louisville. Leading in praise and worship, Min. Demetrius Gunn & True Purpose.  Min. Kevin Wharton, Sr., Minister of Music, Cable Baptist Church will be our clinician.  Email, text, inbox, or call to confirm your attendance. Join us as we give God praise for the things He has done!  We walk by faith and not by sight! This event is free! Seating in Limited. Call 502-415-1001 to reserve your seat!  Jesus saves!

WLOU/WLLV RADIO HOSTS SUMMERFEST PRAYER BREAKFAST, WE BELIEVE IN WEST LOUISVILLE

By:  Min. Angela Lee Price

On Friday, June 16th, WLOU/WLLV Radio hosted their Sixth Annual Summerfest Prayer Breakfast. The breakfast has held at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage.  The theme was “We Believe In West Louisville”  The prayer breakfast is the kick-off event for Summerfest, the stations’ all-day, outdoor family festival in Chickasaw Park held on Saturday, June 24th. 

Prayer breakfast guest speakers included Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer; Passport Health Plan CEO, Mark Carter; YMCA of Greater Louisville CEO Steve Tarver; and keynote speaker St. Stephen Church Sr Pastor/Simmons College of Kentucky President, Dr. Kevin Cosby.  Leading in prayer, St. Stephen Church Administrator, Cheri Mills and Mt. Sinai AOH Church of God Pastor Gena Redmon, and King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church Pastor, Rev. Charles Elliott.  Michael A. Young With In God's Presence ministered in song.

WLOU/WLLV GM Bill Price opened with the welcome, and Passport Communication Director Michael Rabkin, and Metro Councilwoman Barbara Sexton Smith gave responses to the welcome.  News Anchor Stephan Johnson served the emcee. The event was sponsored by Passport Health Plan. 

Pastor Kevin Cosby, Sr. Pastor, St. Stephen Church and President, Simmons College of Kentucky was keynote speaker.  His message was entitled, When Prayer Gets Abused. 

Prayer gets abused when prayer hurts someone else; 2)When prayer hurts ourselves; 3) When prayer is a substitute for intelligence, 4) When prayer turns God into an errand boy; 5) When prayer is a substitute for faith/action.  “There has always been prayer, and there will always be prayer, but, there has to be more than prayer,” said Rev. Kevin Cosby.  “You have to pray and work.”

For the fourth year, Jesus Saves Ministries served as the coordinating ministry for the event, providing guest speakers, volunteers and support in several areas, our largest project of the year.   The prayer breakfast drew more than 300 attendees.  To God be the glory for the things He has done!

Sermon Highlights: Dr. Kevin Cosby, When Prayer Gets Abused

Pastor Kevin Cosby, Sr. Pastor, St. Stephen Church/President, Simmons College of Kentucky was keynote speaker at the WLOU/WLLV Summerfest Prayer Breakfast, June 16, 2017, at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage.  His message was entitled, When Prayer Gets Abused. 

Prayer gets abused when prayer hurts someone else; 2)When prayer hurts ourselves; 3) When prayer is a substitute for intelligence, 4) When prayer turns God into an errand boy; 5) When prayer is a substitute for faith/action.  Scripture references:  2 Kings 20:1-7; Matthew 6:1-6; & Exodus 14:13-15.

Listen for Pastor Cosby's sermons on the St. Stephen Church weekly radio broadcast on 1240 Love WLLV, in Louisville, Ky, Tuesdays 9-10AM.

Slideshow: Summerfest Promotes Family, Fun, and Community

Slideshow




A gospel festival in Chickasaw Park aimed to help neighbors with their goal of "Taking Back Your Streets."
Source: Rob Thomas/WAVE 3 News

Memorial Day Tribute In Loving Memory

Guardians Tag Ministry

As we observe the Memorial Day Holiday, we pause to  remember our loved ones who have gone on to glory.  We honor and salute our active service men and women, veterans, and those whose lives were lost in war.  We thank God for their strength, bravery, and commitment to serving and protecting our country.  May the Lord continue to be with them and their families.

Brothers and Sisters, we do not grieve as if there is no hope.  We have this blessed assurance from Scripture that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.  Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die (John 11:25-26).  Jesus said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God; trust also in me.  In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you may also be where I am" (John 14:1-4).
 
Though we may miss our family members, friends and loved ones on earth, we can rejoice knowing that we will see them again since anyone who dies in Jesus Christ lives in heaven.  Revelation 14:13 states, "Then I heard a voice from heaven say, 'Write:  blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.'  'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.'"   What glorious benefits of salvation we have! 

Remembering our dearly departed family members, active military, and veterans by reflecting on their godly influence in our lives is one of the many ways to give honor to God for his blessings toward us!  Have a blessed Memorial Day Holiday.  Jesus saves!

Romans 6:23 ESV
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

John 14:6 ESV
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Philippians 3:20-21 ESV  
But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lo body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Revelation 21:3-4 ESV 
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

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WLOU/WLLV Present the 6th Annual Summerfest Prayer Breakfast, June 16th!

Passport Health Plans presents the Sixth Annual WLOU/WLLV Summerfest Prayer Breakfast 2017 Friday, June 16th, 11 AM at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage.  Make plans now to attend!  The theme is "We Believe In West Louisville."

Our keynote speaker is Rev. Dr. Kevin Cosby, Sr. Pastor, St. Stephen Church & President, Simmons College of Kentucky; also speaking, the CEOs of the newly announced companies moving to 18th & Broadway,  Mark B. Carter, Passport Health Plan; Steve Tarver, YMCA of Louisville; along with Councilwoman Barbara Sexton Smith.

Leading in Prayer:
Cheri Mills, Administrator, St. Stephen Church/Founder, 1Voice Prayer Movement; and  Rev. Gena Redmon, Pastor, Mt. Sinai AOH Church of God/ Director of the Office of Resilience and Community Services. The musical guests will be Michael A. Young with IN GOD’S PRESENCE.  Stephan Johnson, WDRB will be the guest emcee.  A delicious brunch will be catered by Donald’s Catering.

How to Reserve Your Prayer Breakfast Tickets:
Individual, church & company tickets are now available at WLOU/WLLV Radio and The Life Conference Suite, 2001 W. Broadway, Suites 13 & 10 during regular business hours, M-F, 10:00A-5:00P. Tickets are $25 each;  Tables of 10, $250; Table of 8, $200. Tables receive a name-designated table tent. Reserve now in advance by calling the WLOU/WLLV Business Office, 502-776-1240, Ext. 112 or The Life Conference Suite, 502-415-1001. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted. Pay in advance or at pick up. Make checks payable to WLOU Radio with “Prayer Breakfast” in the memo.  To request an invoice, email Angela Lee Price, jesussaves838@gmail.com.  Do you believe in West Louisville?

Nehemiah Baptist Church Hosts Expungement Seminar This Saturday

Jesus Saves Celebrates the Savior With Free Community Breakfast

Jesus Saves Ministries and  The Life Conference Suite  presented "Celebrate the Savior" Free Community Breakfast & Worship Service on Saturday, April 15th.  The celebration included praise and worship, prayer, and the preached word.    Rev. Dennis Prince inaugurated our new vintage keyboard, Amatullah Shabazz ministered in song. Pastor Ruth Wilson led us in prayer and exhortation.  Rev. Michael Lee's message on Jesus and the thief on the Cross was entitled, Just Read the Sign(s).  The sign over Jesus on the cross and those that accompanied Jesus throughout his earthly ministry told of who he was.  If only they had been read and properly understood.  This was an awesome word!

Rev. Milton Seymore, co-host on the Justice Resource Center radio broadcast on 104.7 FM, stopped by, and we met some new friends, including radio listeners who joined us at this Easter celebration. Shouts out and much love to Brenda Willis James, Rev. Dennis Prince Jr.,  Amatullah Shabazz, and her son Zechariah,  Sylvia Harper,  Jerome and Sharon Price, son, Brandon Flippins, and "Chef Bill" on the griddle for volunteering their time and, talents to this community event. Much thanks to Sam's Club for goodies for our goody bags, and muffins! We thank God for another opportunity to lift up Jesus Christ.  Congratulations to Sylvia Harper, winner of a pair of tickets to see Kirk Franklin Live, May 20th!

TGIF! Thank God It's Good Friday!

By: Angela Lee Price

A "bad" thing happened to Jesus on Good Friday, so what makes Good Friday so "good'? Jesus was falsely accused, scorned, rejected, whipped, humiliated, and nailed to the Cross on Good Friday. He suffered an agonizing death that day at the hands of the Jewish and Roman authorities.

What happened on Good Friday definitely was not good, but the results were very good for you and me. Scripture tells us that because Jesus endured the suffering of the Cross, Christians can shout, T.G.I.F.!, thank God I'm forgiven and it's Good Friday!

Good Friday is good because Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Isaiah 53:5 says, "He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." What can wash away are sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

Good Friday is good for another reason. Jesus defeated Satan and his evil forces at the Cross. Colossians 2:15 states, "And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them at the cross." Hebrews 2:14-15 says, "Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death-that is, the devil-and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death."

Finally, Good Friday is good because it proves to us that when you put your faith in Jesus, it ain’t over, as Maurette Brown Clark sings, until God says it’s over! A lot of conversation occurred up on the Cross as Jesus died between two thieves. Jesus prayed to God. One thief taunted Jesus. The second thief rebuked the first thief. The second thief asked Jesus to remember him in His kingdom. Finally, Jesus promised the second thief that he would be with Him that day in paradise. In lst Peter 3:8 we read, "For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body, but made alive in the Spirit." Acts 4:12 says, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."

Good Friday is good because our sin debt was paid, Satan was defeated, and it proves that through faith in Jesus Christ there's hope for eternal life even in our darkest hour. For these reasons, you can say, T.G.I.F.!, thank God I'm forgiven and it's Good Friday!

Proverbs 18:24: I Have A Friend

Jesus Saves Ministries Celebrates the Savior with Free Breakfast Easter Weekend

Jesus Saves Ministries & The Life Conference Suite are hosting a Free Community Breakfast, Celebrate the Savior, Saturday, April 15th, 10:00 AM- 12 Noon, The Life Conference Suite, 2001 W. Broadway.  Join us for a delicious, hot breakfast plus, prayer, praise and the preached word with exhorter Pastor Ruth Wilson, guest clinician Rev. Dennis Prince, and guest psalmists.  Rev. Michael Lee, Chaplain, CHHCW will bring the message.  This free community breakfast is part of our "Least of These" initiative to feed and clothe residents in need.  We are in need of door prizes and giveaways.  Call Min. Angela Price, 415-1001,  or drop off at The Life Conference Suite,  M-Thur, 10-5. Space is limited.  Doors open at 9:30 AM!  Gotta thank the Breakfast Club, Brenda Willis James, Sharon Price, Min. Marian Anderson!

The Jesus Story and Forgiveness

The Jesus Story is a story of forgiveness. Many times the Gospel writers describe people seeking God’s forgiveness from Jesus and Jesus granting it. In fact, our Savior’s first words from the cross were a plea to the Father for those who had crucified him: “Forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

The issue of forgiveness marked our Lord’s ministry again and again. The apostle John describes a woman who had been caught in adultery. Some Pharisees brought this woman to Jesus, hoping to pit what he would say against what the Law of Moses had commanded. That Law, you see, said that she should be stoned. Saying nothing, Jesus simply “bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger”(John 8:6).

I wonder what he wrote. Perhaps it was something like, “Hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matthew 7:5). Whatever Jesus wrote that day, the Pharisees insisted on a response. Finally, the Savior straightened up and said, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7), and then he continued to write.

At that, they left, one by one, humbled and with nothing left to say. When they had all gone, Jesus asked the woman, “Has no one condemned you?” (v. 10).  “No one, sir,” she responded. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus said. “Go now and leave your life of sin” (v. 11). Jesus had the authority to forgive sins and to set individuals free from guilt and shame. He has that same authority today. He speaks words of pardon and peace into our own troubled hearts: “Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Post Your Reply:

We all get angry and judgmental at times and want to "throw stones." Instead of throwing this stone, someone wrote on it a very important truth about Jesus and forgiveness, "Jesus Is My Rock." What one truth about Jesus would you write on your stone?

Wednesday: The Jesus Story and Humilty

This devotional from the Lenten 6-week series, Life. Death. Victory.

The Jesus Story and Thankfulness

The Jesus Story is a story of forgiveness and humility. It’s also a story of Jesus’ thankfulness. On one occasion, Jesus took five loaves of bread and two fish and fed more than 5,000 people! (Matthew 14:13–21). The text says, “Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves” (v.19, emphasis added). I wonder what else might have been on Jesus’ mind at that moment.

Perhaps he was giving thanks to the Father for his call to be the Savior of the world. Perhaps, too, he thanked God for the power to do miracles, for the little boy who had shared his lunch, and for his faithful (if not always discerning) disciples. Perhaps he was giving thanks for the spiritual hunger of this throng of people, for their thirst to hear the Word of the Lord.

Post Your "Thankful" Point of Power:

Can you cite times in the Bible when Jesus thankful? Can you think of examples in your life where Jesus took a little and turned it into a lot? What are you most thankful for?

Post your favorite Scripture of thankfulness!

If you have already posted something on thankfulness on this site--because we have talked about it a lot--post a blog here for new members to read!

From the CTA Inc. series Life. Death. Victory: The Jesus Story.

Jesus Saves Ministries Worships At CHCCW, March 26th

We praise the Lord for another opportunity to worship with the staff and residents of Christian Health Care Center West on Sunday, March 26th here in Louisville, Kentucky!  Truly, the Holy Spirit was in the place!  Jesus Saves Ministries friend and ministry partner Sis. Erica Dean brought along members from her church, ⛪ First Virginia Avenue Baptist Church to lead in praise and worship, Assc. Pastor Malone, Sis. Irma Dortey, Sis. Mary Schekels-Jones.  Min. Marian Anderson, New Horizon Worship Center, read scripture and led in a call and response prayer based on John 3:16.

 
My message on prayer was entitled, The Art of Rising, 1 Chronicles 4:9-10.   I encouraged the residents to not let someone else's false understanding of who they are negatively affect their relationship with God and people. They should not give up on believing God will bless them indeed.  Seniors have a place of honor with God (Eph. 6:2, Prov. 16:31, Lev. 19:32), but problem of dishonor in society, particularly in the US.  Jabez, too, had a place of honor, but a problem of dishonor, his name, "Son of Sorrow," that had the potential to adversely affect his future performance.  But he was a praying man, and God blessed and enlarged his territory, empowered him, and kept him from evil and from doing evil to others.  God is no respector of persons (Romans 10:13, John 3:16, Psalm 71:18-19)), but character and honor gets his attention (John 15:7, 1John 3:22; James 5:15-16; Psalm 34:15).  Jabez had a city named after him where families of scribes continued to learn and teach the good knowledge of God (1 Chron. 2:55).

CHCCW Chaplain Rev. Michael Lee did  an amazing job sharing segments of the resurrection story pertaining to the Last Supper and Jesus washing the disciple's feet as prelude to communion.  Our hearts were saddened to learn of the recent home going of resident, Sis. Winburn who often played piano for ministries who worship at CHCCW. She was the epitome of a senior saint who mastered the art of rising.  She was loved by so many, and will be truly missed.  We wore rose color and shades of pink to commemorate the midpoint of lent.

Please Keep the Sweeney Family in Your Prayers

Join Jesus Saves Ministries at Christian Health Care Center West March 26th

Rejoice! Today, Thursday marks the midway point of Lent! For those observing the 40 days of Lent, the third Thursday, represents the half-way point in our time of spiritual reflection, prayer and repentance. The midpoint of Lent is traditionally viewed as a time of celebration that occurs on the fourth 4⃣ Sunday. The point of Laetare Sunday or Rose Sunday, as it is called, is to provide encouragement as we progress to the end of Lent. Join us this Sunday at CHCCW for praise, prayer 👏 and the preached Word as we encourage all to press toward the mark for Jesus! Jesus saves!!!

Serve Well to Lead Well

Contrary to popular belief the way up is not up.  The way up is down! Jesus got down! So, take out your towels, and prepare to get down, and wash a few feet! In John 13, Jesus washes his disciples’ feet. He does this just before the Passover Celebration. It was the very night that Jesus instituted the ordinance of the Lord's Supper at the Passover Meal. There, He gave an object-lesson on servant-leadership and humility. Scripture says he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and pour water in a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples' feet and wipe them with his towel (vs. 4-5). In verses 14-17 He says, “And since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. How true it is that a servant is not greater than the master. Nor or messengers more important than the one who sends them. You know these things-now do them! That is the path to blessing” (NLT). 

Today we have a lot of chiefs and very few Indians.  Everyone wants to be like Jesus but very few want to sacrifice and put in the work.  Truth be told, the disciples did not always serve Jesus well before his death. If we are going to lead like Jesus, preach like Jesus, teach like Jesus, and love like Jesus, we must begin by serving like Jesus.  So, get your towels out, sisters and brothers! Get your towels out because we must serve well to lead well! Elisha served Elijah well and received a double portion of Elijah's anointing.  Joshua served Moses well, and was God's choice to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. Timothy and Titus served the Apostle Paul well.  You must serve well to lead well because Jesus was the perfect servant-leader! Jesus said what the Father said, and Jesus did what the Father sent him to do, to save us from our sins (John 3:16).  Jesus was obedient even until his death on the Cross (Romans 5:8).  And the Father raised Him from the dead. Now, Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us (Hebrews 1:3; 12:2).  And his Holy  Spirit indwells the believer.   But after Jesus' resurrection and ascension, the apostles were fully committed to the cause of Christ.  Remember his instruction to the disciples at the Last Supper. Servant-leadership takes obedience, hard work, compassion, and commitment, and humility.  Serve well to lead well.  Jesus saves!

Here is what God does for the humble:

1. God give joy to the humble.  "The humble will see their God at work and be glad.  Let all who seek God's help live in joy. Psalm 69:32.
2. God rescues the humble.  "You rescue those who are humble."  Psalm 18:27
3. God takes care of the humble.  "Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud."  Palm 138:6.
4. God supports the humble.  "The Lord supports the humble, but he brings the wicked down into the dust."  Psalm 147:6.
5. God fills the humble with fresh joy.  "The humble will be filled wsith fresh joy from the Lord.  Those who are poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel."  Isaiah 29:29.

Here is a promise from God:
"Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."  Matthew 23:12

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Jesus Saves Ministries, Celebrating 11 Years of Lifting Up Jesus Christ!