In the twenty-first century, we have too many pastoral leaders who say Lord, Lord and cohort with the devil and spiritually misguided politicians. In America, pastoral leaders are spiritually and morally obligated to consistently inform politicians that we live in a multi-cultural democratic society; whereby no citizen has special privileges or unfair socio-economic cultural disadvantages. Thus, the role of pastoral leaders, especially in the 21st century is to teach and preach the Word of God, in and out of season, and not seek to defend the indefensible: RACISM and SEXISM! Race is not biology, but sociopsychology.
More importantly, “God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things, and hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation” (Acts 17: 24-26). Hence, justice is a spiritual concept, and is oftentimes difficult to achieve societally, because the spirit of the devil is fathering the world and influencing politics in churches, especially Christian Right Evangelical churches.
Politics is of the world, because politics is about power, money, and a lot of pleasure mixed in-between. The Prophet Amos said it best: “But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream” (Amos 5: 23). God’s spiritual judgment and righteousness is pure, not color coordinated, because it brings the Godly-righteous punishment individuals deserve for their sins. Sadly, there are countless pastoral leaders across America today, who are dismayed and spiritually saddened at the partisan political stance recently taken by Dr. Ed Young, senior pastor of Second Baptist Church. Question: has Dr. Young become victimized by White rage?
An individual’s life spiritually is defined by the choices he or she makes. The choice by Dr. Young to embrace GOP Christian Right Evangelical ungodly politics from the pulpit was an unwise choice for many and varied spiritual reasons. First, Godly pure religion and ungodly partisan politics do not mix. Therefore, Godly pastoral leaders must always guard their tongue, because: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Proverbs 18: 21). Spiritual intellectual integrity is far more valuable than worldly power and wealth, because “Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool” (Proverbs 19: 1).
Fools invariably always talk and speak out of school and make a mockery of sin. Pastoral leaders should never misrepresent God’s word, because it leads to the spreading and dissemination of misinformation and confusion, and “God is not the author of confusion, but peace” (1 Corinthians 14: 33). It is for this reason alone that politics and religion do not mix. Thus, given Dr. ED Young’s sermon on Sunday, August 28, 2022, we must honestly ask: who are the spiritually reasonable rational Republicans who believe in multi-cultural democracy? Is America becoming her own worst internal enemy? Christian Right Evangelicals, know this: “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14: 40). Sadly, Dr. Young’s sermon was not decent and was out of God’s spiritual order, because it was about partisan politics, not about the Will and Way of GOD. Amen.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
