Therefore, whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. – St. Luke 12:3
HOUSTON – I love magic shows. I enjoy watching magicians use various skills to deceive our eyes into believing some random object is floating in midair, has changed colors, or disappeared. My favorite skill to watch is sleight of hand. Sleight of hand is defined as skillful deception. The best magicians can literally stand inches away from you and use sleight of hand to deceive you into believing the unimaginable. However, the truth is, it is just an illusion. A trick skillfully constructed to deceive the eyes. Darkness, in my opinion, is Satan’s sleight of hand. He skillfully uses darkness to deceive many into believing “that which is done in darkness will remain in darkness”. When I speak of darkness, I mean those things done behind closed doors, out of public view, and those things done and spoken amongst confidants. The Gospel of Luke sheds light (literally) on the illusion of darkness and reveals the truth about the things men and women believe will remain in darkness. Here are some things to consider to avoid Satan’s sleight of hand.
God’s Omnipresence.
God is everywhere at the same time and He is listening and watching. There is no place on earth you can go, and God is not present. Many have proven throughout the years; how easy it is to deceive and withhold information from man. However, God knows what we are going to do before we know what we are going to do. Ask yourself, will my actions please God? If the answer is no, pray and ask God to reveal His will for your life. Satan’s greatest illusion is convincing so many to lie, cheat, steal and kill to achieve the things we desire in life. Satan thrives in darkness. He never reminds us of this truth revealed by the Gospel Luke. “What’s done in the dark will come to light”.
What is the worst-case scenario?
I missed a lot of fun as a youth and admittedly, God Omnipresence was not being considered. There was however (and still today) one consistent thought on my mind “what is the worst thing that can happen if I get caught, if someone finds out, or if this is revealed? “Considering the worst- case scenario always kept me out of trouble. As a child, I had a great relationship with my parents. I knew my parents loved me and on occasion, that love was revealed through discipline. So, in part, I considered the worst-case scenario to prevent beatings (I meant to say disciplined). God loves us. As our heavenly parent, He disciplines us when we walk in darkness. If you consider “what is the worst-case scenario”, it will decrease your odds of being disciplined by God.
Someone always has a camera!
Understand this God will use any and everything, including technology to reveal this truth: what’s done in the dark will come to light. Let’s face it, cameras are everywhere. Because of technology, actions committed in darkness are a click away from the rooftop. While we cannot control the person(s) recording us, we are capable of controlling our actions. Live your life in way that is pleasing to God and beware of Satan’s sleight of hand.
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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.
