I followed instructions carefully and patted myself on the back exit by exit and turn by turn until there were no directions left. I looked around and realized I was in downtown Nashville. “That’s ok,” I thought. “Chattanooga has a movie theater downtown too.”  I thought it was strange that I seemed to be in a parking lot. Even so, I pulled on up to the waist-high stop sign and then down came the flexible arm gate.  Just to the right I noticed a sign: “WARNING!  ONLY ONE CAR ALLOWED AT A TIME!”  Hmm…“Maybe this leads to a bridge that only one car can cross at a time- I know I’m in the right place,” I assured myself.  Suddenly, three barriers arose right out of the pavement under the gate. It was like something out of a movie!

     “WOW! They are serious about allowing one car at a time to cross the bridge,” I giggled. “Who knows, perhaps Dolly and Queen Latifah decided to come after all and they tightened up security!”  I could only guess, I couldn’t see around the corner. About that time, I looked in my rear-view mirror and noticed a state patrol car behind me and a state patrol officer approaching my car. Sternly he said, “You can’t be here!”  God must have sent an angel to cover my mouth because I almost blurted, “Oh yes I can, I have a media pass… Take me to Karen Peck!”  Instead I asked, “really- why?” He said, “You are at the State Capitol Building!”

       I was in the middle of down-town Nashville at 4:55 pm and I had no clue how to get to where I was supposed to be. I had followed the directions, but it didn’t matter because they were WRONG!  I burst into tears, handed over my directions to the officer and shouted, “WHERE IS THE MOVIE THEATER?”

      I’m grateful he was kind enough to set me on the right path, and also for the Nashville business men and women who allowed me to cut in front of them to get to it! AND I’m grateful for my husband who guided me straight to the theater over the phone. I made it to the premier in plenty of time, but would you believe I had a smart phone with a built in Navigator with me the whole time that I had never taken the time to figure out how to use?!?! (blushing!)

     As embarrassing as this story is, there is a reason I’m sharing. This experience reminded me what “lost” feels like! It’s been a while- but believe me “confusing” is how it felt! The situation also reminded me what it’s like to be denied access.  If there is one word to describe how I felt that day, “stunned” would be it. Hmmmm….

     How many people will get to the end of their lives thinking they are going to heaven only to realize they were wrong? How many of those will have had the gps (Bible) sitting on the shelf unused? I was SO sure I was in the right place right up until the barricade rose up, the arm gate slammed down and the gate-keeper marched out!  I was sincere, but sincerely wrong!

     We still have the opportunity to warn those around us who are lost before they are stunned with the realization of access denied! I don’t know about you, but I’m fired up and ready to lead people out of the confusion and show them the way! My prayer is that you too are encouraged to share the love of Christ. It is only through Jesus Christ we are saved and today IS the day of Salvation!

(Rhonda’s Editorial “Letter From The Editor” Published in SGNScoops Magazine, Feb 2012)

The enemy wants us to give up! It gets wearisome to drown out the voice of discouragement as we run toward the finish line. The enemy is out to kill, steal, destroy and when he isn’t up to that, he is busy distracting us. The apostle Paul was no stranger to obstacles and adversity! Charles Stanley says in his devotional , I LIFT UP MY SOUL, this about the beloved missionary: “Paul’s goal was to take the gospel message to Asia. Three completed missionary journeys proved he had a plan and a purpose. Personal testimonies bear witness that he achieved his goal, but not without cost. No one completes the race of life without facing many trials and tribulations.”

As we carry out our tasks, we will face opposition, adversity and obstacles. Over the next few months, I want to address obstacles to finishing well. Obstacles such as interruptions, discouragement, hidden sin, lack of spiritual discipline and more. I want us to run this race together because God needs us on His team. Yes! He needs us!

It’s amazing to think the God who created and sustains the entire universe knows exactly where we are, what we’re doing, what we’re thinking even before we think it! God is certainly aware of our circumstances, situations and our future. God knows everything. God owns everything. God was. God is. God is the first, the last. He is the author and the finisher and the list goes on. God is sufficient, yet He needs us. Throughout generations, God has consistently used ordinary people to be his hands and his feet on earth.

I ran across a verse several months ago that helped me understand the concept of God needing me. Honestly, I lingered at the verse for a while; it just didn’t fit into my theology. God is completely sufficient isn’t He? Well…the verse that jumped off the page from Eugene Peterson’s paraphrased version was Proverbs 19:17. “Mercy to the needy is a loan to GOD, and GOD pays back those loans in full.” I read it slowly again and again. “Mercy… to the needy… is a loan to God.” “Mercy to the Needy is a LOAN to God.” Honestly, I didn’t like the concept of “loaning” anything to God, so I read it again and again. Being that I’m somewhat of a skeptic- my next thoughts were: “This isn’t the REAL Bible- it’s just a paraphrased version” so I went to the internet and looked at actual translations and yes- the Bible means: When we show mercy to someone in need, we are loaning or “lendeth” (if you prefer) to God no matter which version suits your fancy!

God knows it really takes a “hands-on” lesson for me to get certain truths, and He proved Himself personal and faithful to me later in the day. I was visiting my father-in-law in the nursing home just before he passed away. I stepped out of the room to give my husband and his brother a little privacy to talk. I walked the halls and then noticed a precious little lady nestled in her bed reading her GIANT Bible. Oblivious to me standing near her doorway, I watched her struggle to put her heavy Bible on the night stand. The moment I saw she needed help, I darted through the door and said, “Can I help you with that?” She appreciated my help as I told her how it blessed my heart to see her curled up with God’s word- obviously still cherishing it. We talked a minute and she asked me to remember her in prayer. I told her I would and asked if there was anything I could do for her before I left. She said she was really thirsty. I noticed her cup waaaaay across the room, so I offered to get it for her. The little lady sipped and sipped like she had been thirsty for hours. As I held her cup and she sipped, Jesus so sweetly reminded me… “Mercy to the needy is a loan to God.” It dawned on me that I had just “lendeth” unto the Lord and needless to say, tears filled my eyes, I felt His presence so near.

I asked her if it would be ok for me to pray for her right there and she was most appreciative. Just as I said “amen,” the lady said, now I’m going to pray for you! Boldness and authority boosted her frail voice as she prayed for me and my family and specifically for protection and for God’s blessings. Needless to say, the tears spilled over because the second half of the Bible verse that I had barely noticed earlier had now pretty much hit me over the head… “And God pays back those loans in full!” Oh how I needed someone to pray over me that day!!! God delivered full payment on the spot!

God needs us to be His agents of mercy and grace. He needs us to be vessels of His love. He is counting on you and me to lay aside our agendas and accomplish HIS will! Ministry is tough and when we’re making progress, you better believe we are a target for the enemy. Friends, don’t lose hope, don’t give up! We have a calling on our lives! I challenge you to go back to the day when God made your assignment clear in your heart and mind. Ask Him to renew your passion, re-kindle a new flame. Rely on His faithfulness to accomplish His purpose through you! We will walk through the ministry obstacles together in the months ahead, but know no matter where you are, it’s never too late to get back on track! God is counting on you and is ready to help you with everything He expects and asks! This January, let’s commit to FINISH WELL!

Why is it so important? We never know when our “finish” will be. This past year, we buried my father-in-law. James Frye was a wonderful man of God. He served faithfully for years in the local church. I’m sure most of you lost family and/or friends in 2011. Our industry lost several giants too. The truth is, none of us know when we’ll stand before the Lord face to face. So- let’s take a deep breath and keep the truth of God marching on! Don’t Give UP! THE RACE IS ON!

(Published SGNScoops Magazine January 2012)

It’s been another awesome month at SGNScoops Magazine!! If anyone is around me for 5 minutes, they will know Gospel Music is a major love in my life! I believe in the power of gospel music with my whole heart and soul! I’ve been the one singing on the stage while people flood the altars. I’ve also been in the audience observing people around me with tears streaming and hands lifted. Many times, I’m the one in the audience with tears streaming and silently praying to make things right and better with my biggest love of my life- and that’s the Lord Jesus. Gospel Music is powerful- I love it, and it’s my calling!

It was fun to talk with Karen Peck about her involement with the movie Joyful Noise. If you read my editorial in the magazine- you’ll see Karen has met her match in the “blonde-department!” I had an ordeal getting to the premier- and I guess you could say.. “an episode!” hahaha.. But- I just think it is absolutley amazing to hear the story of how Karen was hand-picked- she didn’t pursue this- the opportunity knocked on her door! Karen walked through and now has brightened up Hollywood with her big smile reflecting the BIG Jesus living in her heart!  Karen exposed Hollywood to Southern Gospel Music and we are so proud!!!  Ya know- it’s ALL ABOUT PLANTING SEEDS and being willing to plant where God sends ya! Make sure you get the Joyful Noise Soundtrack too- it’s over the top!

It was cool to talk to my friend, Brenda Denney of Second Generation too!  I wish you could have heard the way she said, “FAVOR!” It was so cute- sing-songie! But wow.. Our Brenda was a contestant on The Price Is Right and won the showcase! She told everyone what she does and gave God all the glory. My interview with her is in the magazine! Check it out! Also keep in mind that Brenda & 2nd Generation will be releasing a new album this spring! Be watching.. Hmmm.. I bet she mails a copy to Drew Carey and she better mail one to me! hahaha.. It will be great- and I’m looking forward to it!

From the News Desk perspective- I think it’s really cool to see God use our own SG Stars to shine right smack dab in the middle of the world!  Did you get the news about Jason Crabb lighting up twitter with a country interview… A whopping 1.4 million people was reached! So- yeah, SG is invading the world- but the sweet thing is- It doesn’t seem to be affecting who they are. 

I got tickled at Karen Peck’s twitter update a few days after the Hollywood premier. She said something like- A few days ago I was walking the red carpet, today I’m walking in the rain at the grocery store parking lot!  I also got a chance to see Karen in concert last week, and I can tell you- she hasn’t traded her calling for Hollywood! She loves the Lord with all her heart, she shares the gospel with boldness and she’s still out at the table praying with people and hugging necks! Including my little neck!

Same with Jason Crabb- and all the Crabb Family. It was cool to see them a few weeks ago doing the same. It doesn’t matter how successful they are- they are still as sweet as ever. I got a chance to talk to Jason about their new album- which is in the magazine. Also, Jason gave my Ally a guitar pick for her Jason Crabb Guitar Pick Collection! And what a sweet-heart Kelly Bowling is! I had run into her and Mike at the Joyful Noise Premier and shared with them my “ordeal” at the state capitol building! When I saw Kelly, at the concert a couple weeks later, the first thing she said was- “Did you make it home that night? I went to bed thinking about that and worried about you!” I have found everyone with Crabb attached to their name to be precious! The Crabb Family released their new album this week- and it’s GREAT! Check out my concert review in the magazine.

Although I love what I’m doing- there are MANY times I KNOW I’m way out of my comfort zone! I’m so thankful for our publisher and my friend- Rob Patz! Rob has mentored me carefully for the last 8 months. He has taught me so much and has patiently put up with me! He’s pushing me to do things I’ve never done- I think that means he believes in me! lol… Rob has been pushing me to do video interviews for a while. NO-WAY has been my reply! At NQC last year, I ran away and HID- wouldn’t have anything to do with those kind of interviews…

BUT.. this past week I spotted Ben Isaacs (multi GRAMMY nominated and highly decorated award winner- I’ll add!) before the concert and approached him to say hi. On a WHIM, I asked if he would mind updating our readers about how their new album is coming along! So- this was my first time to do that and I still can’t bring myself to watch it yet! lol… I know I know- No Gum  and look at the camera!  I will do better next time! ha ha… Afterall- I have Lorraine Walker and Rob to teach me! I’m scared to watch it because I’m afraid you’ll hear my heart pounding louder than Ben’s words… or maybe my sweat was dripping off my palms and down my face. And- I just can’t stand to see myself nervsously patting Ben on the arm! I remember doing that and the thought crossed my mind- “Stop petting him, Rhonda- he told you he was a teddy bear, NOT a puppy!” Oh sometimes I should not speak my thoughts outloud! hahahahahah

Thank you to my sweet friend, Shauna for tagging along with me, getting pictures and video at the Isaacs concert.  What a friend- she didn’t even make fun of me when I floated back to my seat literally sweating from being so nervous!    As I wiped sweat from my for-head and caught my breath- I said, “You’ve just seen me go out of my comfort zone!”

Yes- I’m completely out of my comfort zone, but I love it! This is my promised land- I’m claiming it. God has given me this opportunity and I’m going to keep working at getting better! Make sure you check out our website for the latest in SG and Christian Country News. From the website you can download our FREE magazine AND participate in Diamond Awards Voting. I just can’t say enough about our staff at SGNScoops! They are truly like family- I love them and they love me! http://www.sgnscoops.com/. I’m totally JAZZED about the March issue!!!! STAY TUNED!

I was so nervous when my phone rang because I had never met Ernie- good grief… he just travels the world and his last dvd went “gold!” So- add in he’s a “yankee”- and yeah, I was terrified at first. hahaha.. I eventually knew I couldn’t lose the accent and I soon realized he’s human like the rest of us! ha… :-) I have to say when I hung up the phone I felt like I had talked to Jesus. Not that I have an unhealthy idea, but after listening to the reasoning behind his new album and how it all came to be- it was very apparent that God is giving him messages (songs) and is giving him the people (audiences all over the world) to deliver the messages to and Ernie is meeting them where they are by stretching his style somewhat. So- sounds like a Jesus kind of thing to do if you ask me!!!!   You go, Ernie Haase!  Oh- and wish Ernie a happy 25th anniversary in ministry on his facebook page and be looking for his new album in February- It totally sizzles! No.. it smokes!

Also- in this issue.. I had the pleasure of attending Jubilate- compliments of Gaither office woo hoo… I had the honor of talking to Gloria last month about her Christmas book- which was amazing by the way. I’m thinking I need to talk to her again so she can motivate me to get all this Christmas stuff DOWN since she inspired me to put it UP! HELP!  But.. I did try to give our readers a front row seat to Jubilate! And wow- yeah.. Heaven on earth! lol

 Also- I tried to do the same for the Voices Won Anniversary. Their Anniversary Singing was just wow! Voices Won are my buddies from MY home town and I am so proud of them…Well, Well, Well… Jaron’s ears must be burning, he’s calling me right now! hahah. hold on……OK….. But- Yeah-Voices Won sang on Main-Stage at NQC last year and made me PROUD!!!  They hosted their annual anniversary 2-day event back in November and invited us down. It was GREAT!!! He just told me a minute ago about their  plans for 2012′s anniversary singing and it is going to be as good as ever- STAY TUNED!!! EXCITED!!!  AND…By the way- both concerts I reviewed were just amazing and my husband- he is quite the photographer, isn’t he?!?!?! He took all of the Jubilate photos, the Finish Well photos and Voices Won for January’s issue. He’s DA-MAN!!!!

And.. in this issue my Finish Well- Recognize that good-looking young red-headed boy?  That’s mine- my baby, Austin running a Cross Country Race. The pictures fit my article too well!!

And- Wow! I got to talk to the Isaacs! All I can say is what wonderful, talented and anointed people they are! They were so down to earth during the interview. Ben actually broke out singing to me in the Scoops booth! And they taught me something!  They enlightened me about the story in the Bible where Jesus made mud and put on the blind man’s eyes. I had no idea that Jesus didn’t LEAD the man to the pool. And the Isaacs taught me that Jesus instructed the blind man to go to a certain pool to wash and according to the map, he had to pass other pools on the way. The song “Waiting In The Water” has turned out to be my favorite on the whole album- I guess because I got the first hand explanation!   Well- it’s amazing! Their whole new album is over the top! I listen to it every day! Go Get One!

I LOVE my Scoops Ministry. I am learning from the best and it’s such an honor. I’m seeing first hand how our artists need our prayers and support! They are real people with real struggles. Pray for them daily, buy their music and go see them in concert! It is such an honor to play a role in the media connecting fans and artists. Gospel music is life changing, I believe that with my whole heart!

AND-  Please check out the WHOLE magazine.  We have the most talented staff EVER! In this issue my friend John Mathis nailed me to the wall with an article about indecisiveness! We have great features, soup recipes and other encouragement!  I am so blessed to be writing with the best  of the best! Check out the magazine HERE…http://www.sgnscoops.com/ All you have to do is Click on the cover on the left and give the free down a couple minutes to load! Enjoy and please share the link with your friends… OOOOOHHHHHH  And- Rob would kill me! I almost forgot THE DIAMOND AWARDS!!!!! Shame on Me!  The Diamond Awards is our fan-based, fan-driven awards show. YOU can nominate YOUR favorite artists and groups- so  please vote, encourage your friends to vote and your favorite artists to get the information out too!

And that’s MY inside Scoop… go get the whole scoop…. It is ABSOLUTELY FREE!!!! And sign up to be on our mailing list! http://www.sgnscoops.com/

Last week, it seemed like every time I tried to plan music for the upcoming Sunday Worship Service, I was interrupted. I had to have everything planned and music pulled by Wednesday night rehearsal, and by now it was Wednesday afternoon and I still hadn’t finished. It seemed the harder I tried to get done, the more random the interruptions were and the more annoyed I became. Just as I finally had everything spread out on my desk, my husband called to say he had to work late and our youngest son had a hair-cut appointment at 5:00. I slammed my song-books shut, packed away my lap-top and stormed off – AGAIN. You can just imagine how I felt when I walked into the salon only to find out the appointment was actually for the next day! I would like to say I was patient in every interruption, but unfortunately, that was NOT the case. I was snappy. How dare they bother me while I’m trying to do God’s work? I had driven myself into a fit-throwing pity party when I remembered the words of my good friend, Karen.

Several years ago, Karen shared with me about the power of interruptions. Jesus saw inconveniences as ministry opportunities! Wasn’t He on the way to heal Jarious’ daughter when the woman with the bleeding issue reached out? All through the New Testament Jesus was interrupted, but He taught us to minister to whoever is right in front of us at any given time. Often times, we get so focused on our ministry, we forget what ministry is all about. Simply put- Ministry is about people. Leadership is about serving. Worship is about living a lifestyle that reflects adoration for God- (not Sunday Morning Music!) and that includes loving people! If we love God, we will love what He loves!

As I had my pity-party, I reminded the Lord of how the day had started so well. After all, I got up early to read my Bible. He reminded me that as soon as my time was up with Him, I shut my Bible and said, “ok, Jesus- I have to go to work now!” It was as if I had treated God like a parent dropping off a child at day school. I released myself to go to my work and expected Him to go ride the clouds of glory until I spoke to Him at supper, and again at bed-time.

 So what is life-style worship all about? Jesus condensed everything expected of us down to two things: Love God. Love People. My attempt at “Loving God” that day was the equivalent to having a quiet time out of obligation as I looked for material to share with others. My attempt at “loving people,” well… I didn’t. I was on a mission to plan worship when I could have worshiped God by extending His grace to the people at my fingertips. My heart’s desire is to be an effective worship leader, but I’m realizing that it goes far beyond what happens with the music on Sunday mornings. People are desperate to know the God I sing about is real and relationship with Him is actually attainable- for them! They need to know THEY can access the throne room- not just watch me go!
The only way I can demonstrate the authenticity of my relationship with the living God is to love people.  When people encounter the holy love of God, they worship. When people encounter the holy love of God through people, the response is the same. Worship as a lifestyle for a lifetime (not just on Sunday)s is my goal!

Thank you, iLevite Magazine for publishing this article July 2011

What comes from the heart truly touches the heart! I didn’t come up with that saying, but wow isn’t it true?  It’s especially true when it comes to gospel music. After interviewing many great artists, song-writers and listening to testimonies at the National Quartet Convention, my heart is overwhelmed by the power of gospel music.

I had a chance to visit with Squire Parsons and listen to him explain how scripture and personal experience is where he gets inspiration to write.  I would dare to say, most gospel songwriters agree. I’ve heard the phrase “gospel music changes lives” so much in my life, it’s almost become cliche’, but  I’m respecting the power of gospel music in a fresh way. Obviously- there is power in the biblical truth of the lyric and the beauty of the music stirs emotions and softens hearts. I’m convinced that many gospel songs are saturated with the anointing of the Holy Spirit and  thus demands a response.

Perhaps my passion for gospel music has been resurrected because I was given many new CDs at NQC. To say I’ve been blessed is really an understatement. However- being blessed is just the small part of it. Gospel music is more than feel-good songs. The truth is… gospel music is STILL changing lives. I admit as I was listening to one particular song this week, God dealt with stubbornness in my own heart. The song did more than “move me”- I was convicted by the truth of the lyric and prompted to confess and move into a deeper relationship with God through Christ. Now that’s the power of gospel music! I was also moved to tears recently as I listened the Bowlings Miracles And Memories CD.  Kelly Bowling shared how she came to Christ as a little girl while she was listening to gospel music. Again- that’s the power of a gospel song!

I’m convinced gospel music is a powerful tool God uses to restore hope, heal broken hearts and soften the hardest ones. He uses it to soothe spirits, bring peace to trouble minds and to draw people to Himself.  I’m proud to report gospel music still proclaims the majesty of God, still clings to the cross and stands by the necessity of  Christ’s shed blood as humanity’s only hope. Gospel music is convinced the tomb is empty and is persuaded that living victoriously is possible through Christ. Gospel music is still excited about the resurrection of saints and is still looking toward the eastern sky. Trust me, gospel music still banks on the promise of eternal life by grace through faith! Gospel music is sacred and has the ability to point people to Christ leading them to life changing encounters with the living God. I’m a personal witness. My heart has been personally touched, my life has been changed and I am most grateful!

May God- through gospel music continue to bless us all and in return may we give 100% of our lives to Him and pour all of our love on Him! He deserves nothing less. If I can serve you in any way, email me at rhonda@sgnscoops.com.

Published SGNSCoops “Letter From the Editor” October 2011

(Published SGNScoops Magazine September 2011)

I’m so excited to introduce my Grandmother this month! There’s not another person, in my eyes, that illustrates this month’s topic of “faithfulness” like she does. I will introduce her later, but first- let’s look at “Faith.”

In the Christian life, everything begins and ends with faith. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 12:2 that God initiates AND perfects it too. First we step out in faith, and then we walk in faith. As we’re walking, God will test our faithfulness. When we pass the faithfulness test, God will lead us into new realms of ministry requiring a new leap of faith. Following an intense time of faith-testing, a God-initiated ministry will emerge. I believe our Christian life follows this cycle until we’re called home.

The Discipleship Tools website gives a great explanation of faithfulness: “Faithfulness is the Fruit of the Spirit we give to God so He can change us inside and out. It is the ability to take what Christ has done in us and be a blessing to others with loyalty and trust. Faithfulness goes against modern psychology and society’s thinking, as it requires us to move beyond ourselves, whereas psychology tells us to be selfish putting ‘me’ first, rearranging the world to {meet} our needs which creates self-destruction and broken relationships. We have to keep the goal of faithfulness in our minds always, as it will allow God to work deeper in us then we respond to His call.”

Everyone LOVES new assignments, but no one likes what it takes to get there. No one likes tests, but you can be sure that if you are experiencing an intense period of testing- let me just say, “Congratulations- God’s about to do something in your life!”  Relax and know the testing period is the tough part and God will be faithful when you are unfaithful, for He cannot deny who He is (2 Timothy 2:13). When we lose a battle during the test, we have to get back up, own it and ask for help. God is faithful enough to give more chances for us to get it right. God does require obedience, but He also looks at the heart. He’s not impressed with flawless performance or perfect behavior. More than anything, God wants us to be faithful to be honest before Him. He wants us to be faithful to OWN our sin and/or weakness and be faithful to continually depend on Him for help. When we’re faithful in honest communication with Him, we’re on the right track of passing the test. The truth is, God’s work in us will develop the quality of faithfulness if we are faithful to admit we can’t do it ourselves.

There is always a sigh of relief once the test is over, but just about the time we slide into a new comfort zone, God nudges us right out of it!  When God initiates ministry- it’s going to be impossible to pull it off on our own. As the Holy Spirit initially whispers the call, our flesh responds in resistance. “I can’t do that, I’m not qualified, experienced, or trained,” we whine.  “Lord- not me, I’m broke,” we contest. “Lord, not me I’m too old,” some of us wail.  Yes, I admit I’ve used “I’m too old!” That excuse didn’t work for Moses; it didn’t work for me OR my Grandmother.

My Grandmother stepped into a relationship with God 60 years ago. To celebrate her spiritual birthday, she spent time in prayer at the little church where she placed her faith in Christ. If Grandmother were writing, she would be quick to say, she’s never looked back since deciding to follow Jesus.

During her 60 years, God blessed her faithfulness and granted her many ministry opportunities. In her younger days, she taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, served on the church board and filled many roles within the local church. In fact, she’s been faithful to attend church three times a week- and joined only 3 different ones in the whole 60 years.

In addition to church ministry, Grandmother had a special talent for creating beautiful flower arrangements. As a florist, she kept her church decorated each season and brought countless smiles to shut-ins, friends and family with her gift of flowers. When Grandmother wasn’t able to keep up with making the flower arrangements, she devoted herself to a vital prayer ministry.  For many years, every Thursday was her day to lock herself inside the church and cry out to God on behalf of her family, church family and friends.  I’m sure that’s why I’m saved and am in ministry today.  A lot of people would have been done with serving the Lord by age 85, but not my Grandmother. At age 85, still longing to share her faith, the Lord opened the door for her to write and publish her life-story and testimony. Grandmother released her first book “I’ve Come, Lord” three short years ago.

In July 2011, my sweet Grandmother suffered a stroke and was sent to a nursing home for rehabilitation. For the first time in 60 years, she was sure that ministry was over. “Many times I have walked the halls of this very place bringing flowers, candy or gifts. I always noticed the little ladies sitting in their wheelchairs in their rooms- I was on the outside lookin’ in. I never dreamed that I would someday be the one in the wheel-chair lookin’ out,” Grandmother explained. “When I got here, I just knew my time was over, that God was done with me and I began to cry- but you know what, Rhonda? God put me here- He is still on the throne! He knows there are people here that I’m supposed to tell about Jesus,” she said waving her little hand.

Grandmother passed her faithfulness test and God began to open new doors of ministry for her at age 88, right there in the nursing home! Her smile and kindness infiltrated the building, and she’s been giving out her books left and right too. She’s been there for a few weeks and everyone knows her- the patients and the entire staff. She’s often called upon to open activities with prayer. Maybe she’s called upon because she gave all of her BINGO prize money away-with a cheerful heart! As she rolled past another patient the other day she asked, “How are you?” “Angry,” he replied. “I’ll be back to see you, then,” she said. Without a doubt, Granny’s on a mission! The other day she told me, “I don’t know if I want to leave here, but when I do- I believe I’m gonna write another book!”

My Grandmother’s picture is in God’s album of faithful heroes and I want my there too. To get there, we have to start with being faithful in our honesty with God admitting we can’t be faithful without His help. Thank goodness HE that started the good work in us WILL perfect it in my Grandmother- Juanita Cronnon, in you and in me to the very end! And as my Grandmother would say, “Well, Glory be to God!”

Reference: (http://www.discipleshiptools.org/apps/articles/default.asp?articleid=36691&columnid=4166)

Immediately, he turned and gave my pastor a bear hug, then on his own, he went to every single person circled around and hugged them and thanked them.  The love of God had entered into his heart and he couldn’t help himself but to give it away.  As he made his way around the circle, it dawned on me that everyone there had played a role in his salvation over the last few weeks. Yeah, the preacher had been preaching messages, but there were also friends that had made themselves and their home available to have him over and answer his MANY questions.  There were some that had shaken his hand at the door and smiled.  Some had extended their shoulder to comfort him in the recent loss of his son. There were some that had been praying for him, and some of us had ministered to him in song. We all had extended the love of Christ so much until he came to the point of desiring to experience it first hand.  GOD USED A TEAM!

When a person comes to Christ, he is an individual- with a head- or a mind of his own. Once a person steps into the covenant relationship with God, he is immediately no longer an individual with a whole body and head- but rather he is integrated into a family with Christ as head.  He died with Christ as an individual -whole person and was resurrected a part!  Yes- a part of the family of God.  He died with Christ and rose up a foot, or an arm, a hand, an eye or something else. Whatever the body part, he was raised to be a PART of the beautiful body of Christ. The body of Christ is indeed beautiful and works together to bring others into the body.  

 God has given me sort of a mixed bag of body parts- lol… He has given me the ability to sing, play and write.  I am so excited to have the opportunity to team up with SGNScoops so that I can use my writing as a tool and be a part of spreading the gospel through media.  I love being the one on the front lines offering the invitation, but I also know it’s just important to encourage and promote others that are doing the same.  I am excited to use my gifts in writing to transparently share my faith, encouragement and help others share the good news of Christ. 

This week has been amazing for me, I’ve have had the opportunity to personally lead someone to Christ and I’ve had a front and center view of someone receiving Christ.  All I can say is I am sooooooo fired up!  I am determined to plant seeds, water them, harvest them and will do everything I possibly can to help others in ministry do the same thing.  At SGNScoops, I am the Editor in Chief and will serve at SGMRadio.com and on the Diamond Awards Planning Board. I believe with all my heart the clock is ticking and we must work together for the cause of Christ!  If I can serve you in any way, please email me at rhonda@sgnscoops.com

Hey My Christian Friends,

I was reading I Corinthians 15 this morning and was reminded:  “Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for Him is a waste of time or effort.”  (I Cor 15:8)Wow… jump in, give everything you’ve got, don’t hold back, give all or nothing when it comes to doing the work of the Master.  What is that work?  SPREADING THE LOVE OF CHRIST!  That’s it…

I just want to challenge you to be mindful and LOOK for opportunities TODAY, June 22, 2011.  Whoever is in front of you at any given time is your ministry assignment.  Love extravagantly, smile, hug, listen and share!  I believe with all my heart Jesus is coming back soon.  Until then, THROW yourselves into the work of the Master- it’s not a waste of time.  Most of all- ask God for help.  Ask Him to open your eyes, open your ears- and He will guide you all the way.  Also- be mindful of your own salvation.  How grateful are you?  Your gratefulness will determine your faith- sharing drive!  Really- think about what God has done in your life?  Doesn’t that make you want others to experience the radical love and grace you’ve experienced?   Ok…Ready?  Hurl yourself full force into Kingdom building TODAY…Don’t hold back…  You’ll be so glad you did!  DONT BE SHY!!!!!

Oh yeah- one last thing.. woopsie already said that,.. ok- the final thing… Please don’t wait for the “church” or the preacher or those in ministry to do this!  It’s not JUST the church’s responsibility to win the lost- it’s ALL of our job.  Start where you are… SHINE YOUR LIGHT, baybee- right in your own world!  D.L. Moody said the only wrong way to evangelize is to NOT!  – Well, I don’t know if those were his exact words- but close enough… Ok.. NOW, GO!   MAKE Disciples!

Recently, I had the privilege of singing at a Christian Men’s Event.  I was really intimated and nervous, but turned out to be one of my most memorable singing experiences of my life. God showed up, showed out and was truly there in a tangible way.  As I sang “How Great Thou Art,” just as I got to the lyrics, ” I hear the rolling thunder,” just at that very moment God sent the most beautiful, gentle rolling thunder in the distance.  I will never forget the smiles of amazement and the worship that took place.   Before the song was over, the men were singing along- all on their feet worshiping our GREAT GOD with adoration!  My knees grew so weak, I could hardly stand- I knew I was experiencing a Sacred Moment, standing on Holy Ground!  With that cherished memory forever imprinted on my mind, I can’t help but wonder what it was like at the Last Supper- talk about a sacred evening!  Jesus had washed the feet of His disciples, explained the New Covenant and instituted The Lord’s Supper.  I have to say, in light of my experience, I would give anything to see what happened next.  I’m trusting God has this historic scene on dvd ready for me to check out when I get to heaven! :-)  Matthew 26: 30 tells us, “After SINGING A HYMN, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Hmmmmm…..Slowly- “After singing a hymn”… “After SINGING a hymn”… “After singing a HYMN?”  First of all, a group of men singing- Powerful!  But- JESUS singing?  WoW!  I’m a singer- I can’t help but wonder- what was His voice like?  Was He a low, mellow bass?  Could He sing tenor and sound like a girl?  Was He a strong lead, or blend in as smooth baritone?  Hmmm… His voice did calm the raging sea…and raise Lazarus from the dead…. Hmm… But, scripture does say there was nothing about his appearance that drew attention to himself- maybe his voice was very human- Hmmm.. did he struggle with tone, pitch?  Was His voice raspy and crackle-ly? I don’t know…  but I do know- they sang.  The word “singing” was translated as the same word describing Paul and Silas singing in prison. 

Hmm.. “After singing a HYMN, they…”  What hymn?  A hymn to me is “Amazing Grace,” obviously they didn’t sing that!  What hymn?  No one can honestly say for sure- only God and the disciples were in the Upper Room that night, but I can pass along what Biblical Scholars speculate.  The book of Psalms was the official hymnbook in that day.  Most- if not all Psalms were set to music and sung in worship, as they traveled to festivals, meal times and as they worked in the fields.  Psalms 113-118 and 136 are called the “Hallel” or hymns of praise.  Many scholars explain, the Psalms/hymns are broken up and sang at different times during Passover.  Traditionally, Psalms 113-114 were sung before the Passover Meal, the rest were sung in sections and at the end.

No one truly knows, but I can’t imagine Jesus not keeping the traditional customs of the Passover.  I had to go read those passages and will share some of those verses.  Psalm 116:1-4-  ” I love the Lord, because He hears my voice and my supplications.  Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I shall call upon him as long as I live.  The cords of death encompassed me, and the terrors of Sheol came upon me:  I found distress and sorrow.  Then I called upon the name of the Lord.  ‘O Lord, I beseech Thee, save my life!’  Vs. 9-15-  “I shall walk before the Lord in the land of the living.  I believed when I said, I am greatly afflicted.  I said in my alarm, all men are liars.  What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me?  I shall lift up the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord.  I shall pay my vows to the Lord, oh may it be in the presence of all His people.  Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones.”  Psalm 118:1-  “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good;For His lovingkindness is everlasting.”  Vs 6-8-  “The Lord is for me;I will not fear;  What can man do to me?  The Lord is for me among those who help me; therefore I shall look with satisfaction on those who hate me.  It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.”  Vs.  14-  “The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.”  Vs. 17- ” I shall not die, but live and tell of the works of the Lord.”  Vs 20-24  “This is the gate of the Lord; the righteous will enter through it.  I shall give thanks to thee, for Thou hast answered me:  And Thou hast become my salvation.  The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner stone.  This is the Lord’s doing:  It is marvelous in our eyes.  THIS IS THE DAY WHICH THE LORD HAS MADE; LET US REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT.”  Vs 27-29-  “The Lord is God, and He has given us light; Bind the festival sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.  Thou art my God, I extol Thee.  Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;  For His lovingkindness is everlasting.” 

Again, I don’t know Jesus sang those exact words, but I do know He SANG!  Jesus could sing knowing that in a few hours following, he would be spat upon, mocked and shamed.  He sang knowing His beard would be ripped from his cheeks and chin.  I whine when I get my eyebrows waxed!  Jesus sang knowing He would be stripped of His garments and a crown of sharp thorns would be forced down on His head.  I can’t take a splinter under my skin!  Jesus sang knowing He would be beaten unmercifully with an inch of His life.  Until seeing “The Passion of the Christ,” I didn’t realize that not only did Jesus sustain injuries causing His blood to pour, but His skin was literally shredded causing His blood to spray out as well- and I hate paper cuts!  Jesus sang knowing his arms would be stretched out, dislocating his shoulders-breaking his tendons as spikes would be driven through His wrists.  Jesus sang knowing a huge spike would be driven through both of His feet.  I can’t imagine- I hate to stub my toe!  Jesus could sing knowing he would hang on a rough cross, gasping for breath- in severe physical and emotional pain.  How did he do it?  How could He sing?  Probably the same way He endured the cross.  Hebrews tells us, He kept His eyes on the reward that was to come.

Jesus sang.  How often do we say- or think- “I’m not in the mood to sing?”  How about- ” I have nothing to sing about.” Maybe- “I just don’t feel like singing.”  Jesus sang-  Maybe with His eyes closed and arms lifted.  Maybe choking back tears.  Maybe- with great joy and enthusiasm.  I don’t know- but I do know Jesus sang, now what is my excuse?  What is yours?

May God bless you and keep you- and may you sing to the Lord a new song- for He is good!