It's quite appropriate for the harvest and Thanksgiving to arrive in the fall. As the seasons change, it's a time for new beginnings - a time of transition. It’s a time to gather the bounty after months of tilling the soil, planting the seeds and nurturing with water. These are the rewards of laborious days in the fields worked by hard working people.
And what about our spiritual labors? Do we feel our prayers aren't answered as quickly as we expect? Always be thankful to God for He does all things well and in His own time. The closer we get to Him, the better we can understand His will. Patience is a virtue that everyone should strive to possess and our prayers do not fall on deaf ears. Our God knows the "how" and "where" and "when" the petitions of His children are to be answered. But remember, thank God daily for who He is and not for what He can do for you.
Brotherhood continually gives thanks our heavenly Father for what He allows us to do. And that's to sing His praises, to encourage believers and bring the lost unto the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. That is our mission.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing!
Monday, November 5, 2012
Friday, September 28, 2012
THE WORD OF GOD STANDS FOREVER
You're familiar with that saying, "the more things change the more they stay the same". The world we live in is ever changing to make life easier and more efficient. However, nothing can alter or change our relationship with the Lord. From everlasting to everlasting, He is God and that's it! He doesn't change, He doesn't sleep, He doesn't take a vacation and He doesn't forsake His children.
As for Brotherhood, we are "chomping at the bit" to get our fall ministry in full swing. However, we are patiently waiting on God's direction. Not easy - but necessary to follow in His will. We had a wonderful September opportunity to minister in song at a local church. Brotherhood was just part of the service but we're confident, by the congregation's response, to return for a full blown concert soon! We immediately felt God's presence as the people entered into worship without hesitation, praise God! Having all the wives present was an extra special treat, too! That's a rare occasion and we appreciate them so much.
With Dan & Mel out of town, Phil's busy with evangelism (he loves it!) and John & his wife had a blessed vacation drive back home to NYC and surrounding areas. The time spent together on the road was just as enjoyable as their NY stay. He is also working on new material for Brotherhood - more great songs are on the way! On a special senior night dedicated to old time gospel music, John served as song leader. Choosing old hymnal favorites, the crowd had a grand old time singing at the top of their lungs! To spice it up, John went around and poked the mike in front of many to catch their singing ability. Good voices everyone!
You're now caught up and we pray you are inspired to do something for Him today. Remember that "little is much when God is in it".
Be blessed and be a blessing!
As for Brotherhood, we are "chomping at the bit" to get our fall ministry in full swing. However, we are patiently waiting on God's direction. Not easy - but necessary to follow in His will. We had a wonderful September opportunity to minister in song at a local church. Brotherhood was just part of the service but we're confident, by the congregation's response, to return for a full blown concert soon! We immediately felt God's presence as the people entered into worship without hesitation, praise God! Having all the wives present was an extra special treat, too! That's a rare occasion and we appreciate them so much.
With Dan & Mel out of town, Phil's busy with evangelism (he loves it!) and John & his wife had a blessed vacation drive back home to NYC and surrounding areas. The time spent together on the road was just as enjoyable as their NY stay. He is also working on new material for Brotherhood - more great songs are on the way! On a special senior night dedicated to old time gospel music, John served as song leader. Choosing old hymnal favorites, the crowd had a grand old time singing at the top of their lungs! To spice it up, John went around and poked the mike in front of many to catch their singing ability. Good voices everyone!
You're now caught up and we pray you are inspired to do something for Him today. Remember that "little is much when God is in it".
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Friday, September 14, 2012
THE ANGST & BLESSINGS OF AUGUST
I'll be on vacation for awhile and wanted to send this out ASAP. The dog days of summer are over (I think) and looking forward to a blessed fall season. The Bible says, "don't look to the left or the right; just keep your focus straight ahead." We should always press towards the mark of the high calling of God. What is that calling? Well, first, it's being part of God's big family through salvation. And then, it's how can you serve God. If you're not sure, why not ask Him for help and guidance? If we love the Father we surely must desire to do whatever we can with the gifts He gives. It could be a prayer warrior, a caring shoulder, a neighbor's help, a listening ear, an elder, a teacher or... a minister (you never know).
Brotherhood has been called to minister in song but that's not for everybody. We enjoy sharing God's loving message to whomever regardless of age, culture, etc. We had wonderful, new concert experiences in August that God prepared. Wide spread announcements (incl. TV) fanned the flame as we held concerts at Upsala Presbyterian (Sanford) and the Full Gospel Businessmen's (FGBM) dinner meeting in Titusville. Had a surprise visit by my good friend, Max Pickering from The Pickerings. This family gospel group has been singing for a LONG time. Like Max has said - "longer and older than asphalt!"
There was a great response from people who truly enjoy good gospel music - old and new. They had no problem joining in as they knew many of the songs. God moved in a very special way at FGBM as we had individual prayer at the conclusion. Clyde was a gentleman who had severe shoulder problems with little movement. Phil sensed in his spirit that God was touching Clyde. A few days later, Clyde called to report he was healed as arm movement had returned - praise God!! Being able to reach into new territories always has unknown/ untold rewards and blessings. We look forward to what else God has in store for us - we'll just wait and see!
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Brotherhood has been called to minister in song but that's not for everybody. We enjoy sharing God's loving message to whomever regardless of age, culture, etc. We had wonderful, new concert experiences in August that God prepared. Wide spread announcements (incl. TV) fanned the flame as we held concerts at Upsala Presbyterian (Sanford) and the Full Gospel Businessmen's (FGBM) dinner meeting in Titusville. Had a surprise visit by my good friend, Max Pickering from The Pickerings. This family gospel group has been singing for a LONG time. Like Max has said - "longer and older than asphalt!"
There was a great response from people who truly enjoy good gospel music - old and new. They had no problem joining in as they knew many of the songs. God moved in a very special way at FGBM as we had individual prayer at the conclusion. Clyde was a gentleman who had severe shoulder problems with little movement. Phil sensed in his spirit that God was touching Clyde. A few days later, Clyde called to report he was healed as arm movement had returned - praise God!! Being able to reach into new territories always has unknown/ untold rewards and blessings. We look forward to what else God has in store for us - we'll just wait and see!
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
SUMMER ENDING
Are you happy or sad that another summer is nearly gone? We have the Summer Olympics, baseball, picnics, beach time and other outdoor activities still available. Very soon, some parts of the USA will start feeling the fall weather and begin wearing jackets and sweaters. Some Brotherhood members took vacation time and a life change, too.
Mel headed for the NC hills, Phil went west to CA and John was visited by his new grandson, Josiah, while working on new songs and original material. Dan is now a retired teacher and is returning to missionary work with his wife! Thank God, Dan will remain with Brotherhood, as their projects involve periodic travels to foreign lands. Their first task deals with language translation of the "Jesus" film in Asia. Pray for them both!
Won't it be great when we reach heaven and we no longer care or worry about the seasons, clothes, work, health, ministry or anything else in life? We plan and consider our earthly future with calculations of life expectancy, cash flow, wills and our anxiety starts to rise. Don't be foolish but also don't worry. Let's keep Christ first and foremost so that He can work in and through us. He will be the One to handle our needs and He will be the One who gets the glory. So, enjoy the summer days that lead into fall and know that God is in control all the time. You'll see how the "release of the reins" will bring peace and satisfaction. As the song says, "there IS joy in following Jesus."
P.S. Look forward to seeing you at one of Brotherhood's August concert dates.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Mel headed for the NC hills, Phil went west to CA and John was visited by his new grandson, Josiah, while working on new songs and original material. Dan is now a retired teacher and is returning to missionary work with his wife! Thank God, Dan will remain with Brotherhood, as their projects involve periodic travels to foreign lands. Their first task deals with language translation of the "Jesus" film in Asia. Pray for them both!
Won't it be great when we reach heaven and we no longer care or worry about the seasons, clothes, work, health, ministry or anything else in life? We plan and consider our earthly future with calculations of life expectancy, cash flow, wills and our anxiety starts to rise. Don't be foolish but also don't worry. Let's keep Christ first and foremost so that He can work in and through us. He will be the One to handle our needs and He will be the One who gets the glory. So, enjoy the summer days that lead into fall and know that God is in control all the time. You'll see how the "release of the reins" will bring peace and satisfaction. As the song says, "there IS joy in following Jesus."
P.S. Look forward to seeing you at one of Brotherhood's August concert dates.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Monday, July 9, 2012
STARS & STRIPES FOREVER
Our nations' freedom celebration took place once again on the 4th of July. As usual, it was highlighted by food, family, music and firework spectaculars. As a proud American, I'm glad to join in this annual event that was made possible through determined efforts of our forefathers and the many wars and lost lives in the process. There had to be a cost.
The American flag is our symbol for freedom - the stripes represent the original 13 colonies and the stars stand for each state in the USA. The story of America's freedom came at a great price but. more importantly, so did our eternal salvation. It was through His shed blood, His bearing of our stripes, His bearing of our sins, the Lord Jesus Christ was a one-man army. That bright Star of Bethlehem showed so much love for all mankind to allow Himself to suffer in agony and endure the pain in human flesh to save us all! And, He would've done so even if there was but one person left in this world. The world, no matter how big or small, needed a Savior and so, Jesus came.
Aren't you glad the HE chose to provide that through His death on the cross? We need to always remember that One Star who wore the Stripes meant for each one of us. May we be forever grateful to our Lord, the sinless & blameless One, who made the way to eternal freedom!
P.S. Be looking for upcoming Brotherhood concert dates in August. And, in other news, The Dixie Melody Boys are looking for a new lead singer. So.. if interested and ready to relocate, feel free to give them a call.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
The American flag is our symbol for freedom - the stripes represent the original 13 colonies and the stars stand for each state in the USA. The story of America's freedom came at a great price but. more importantly, so did our eternal salvation. It was through His shed blood, His bearing of our stripes, His bearing of our sins, the Lord Jesus Christ was a one-man army. That bright Star of Bethlehem showed so much love for all mankind to allow Himself to suffer in agony and endure the pain in human flesh to save us all! And, He would've done so even if there was but one person left in this world. The world, no matter how big or small, needed a Savior and so, Jesus came.
Aren't you glad the HE chose to provide that through His death on the cross? We need to always remember that One Star who wore the Stripes meant for each one of us. May we be forever grateful to our Lord, the sinless & blameless One, who made the way to eternal freedom!
P.S. Be looking for upcoming Brotherhood concert dates in August. And, in other news, The Dixie Melody Boys are looking for a new lead singer. So.. if interested and ready to relocate, feel free to give them a call.
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
DIVINE APP'T. BEFORE FATHER'S DAY
The time is just flying back and there's much to do in a short span of time. Family matters, end of school year and planned church move to our new complex has kept Brotherhood members busy outside of gospel music! As Father's Day approaches, we are reminded that we are doing the Father's business and seek to honor Him in all things. And, Brotherhood believes in divine appointments (read on).
Brotherhood just returned from our weekend trip to Florida's west coast. At the 3 marvelous concerts in 2 days, we were reacquainted with some old friends and made new ones along the way. It was so good meeting Pastors Ernie, David and Don as well as Steve, Matthew, Vickie, Barbara, Patricia, Helen (the hugger) and so many others!
On Saturday, the folks at Pinellas Park Church of the Nazarene sang along with the old, traditional songs and enjoyed the newer ones, as well. Thanks, Reggie, for your hard work to promote monthly gospel concerts in that Florida region. The Sunday AM concert at Faith Assembly (St. Petersberg) was blessed; Brotherhood always look forward to those morning services. That's when we're able to not only sing, but preach and have altar work time - praise God! We concluded Sunday evening at East Point Assembly (Tampa) where we gave our all to encourage the congregation and uplift the pastor. It was a great way to top off the entire weekend where we saw many receive or rededicate their lives to Christ and prayed a special blessing over the "next generation" of the church.
All the pastors were appreciative but, more importantly, blessed to receive from the Lord rather than give. Pastors need a break to get recharged and re-energized to continue His great work work. Brotherhood looks forward to returning in the future, Lord willing. We had a blast!!
In other news, John continues to write songs and is a contributing gospel music columnist. After hearing about his book, John was contacted by the college editor of his alma mater's magazine "Lehman Today". After an interview to gather some personal/professional updates, they plan to publish his authorship accomplishment in the fall/winter 2012 edition. Thank God for another avenue of opportunity to share God's message.
Keep trusting the Potter's hand for He always knows what's best for us. Be blessed and be a blessing!
Brotherhood just returned from our weekend trip to Florida's west coast. At the 3 marvelous concerts in 2 days, we were reacquainted with some old friends and made new ones along the way. It was so good meeting Pastors Ernie, David and Don as well as Steve, Matthew, Vickie, Barbara, Patricia, Helen (the hugger) and so many others!
On Saturday, the folks at Pinellas Park Church of the Nazarene sang along with the old, traditional songs and enjoyed the newer ones, as well. Thanks, Reggie, for your hard work to promote monthly gospel concerts in that Florida region. The Sunday AM concert at Faith Assembly (St. Petersberg) was blessed; Brotherhood always look forward to those morning services. That's when we're able to not only sing, but preach and have altar work time - praise God! We concluded Sunday evening at East Point Assembly (Tampa) where we gave our all to encourage the congregation and uplift the pastor. It was a great way to top off the entire weekend where we saw many receive or rededicate their lives to Christ and prayed a special blessing over the "next generation" of the church.
All the pastors were appreciative but, more importantly, blessed to receive from the Lord rather than give. Pastors need a break to get recharged and re-energized to continue His great work work. Brotherhood looks forward to returning in the future, Lord willing. We had a blast!!
In other news, John continues to write songs and is a contributing gospel music columnist. After hearing about his book, John was contacted by the college editor of his alma mater's magazine "Lehman Today". After an interview to gather some personal/professional updates, they plan to publish his authorship accomplishment in the fall/winter 2012 edition. Thank God for another avenue of opportunity to share God's message.
Keep trusting the Potter's hand for He always knows what's best for us. Be blessed and be a blessing!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
TIME TO "SPRING" AHEAD!
Outside of Easter/ Resurrection Sunday, I'm not really a big fan of springtime anymore. Why? Because it's the time we always turn our clocks ahead and lose an hour of sleep. That's what they say about the first night but what happens afterwards? For me, the mind and body take longer to adjust so I awake long before the alarm and start yawning at 9:30 at night! It took me a few weeks to catch up with everything, so I'm thankful that it's finally over! It takes that phrase "to everything there is a season" to a whole new level of meaning for me.
In April, Brotherhood made a return engagement at the Volusia Music Club. We enjoy this event since it gives us the chance to connect with a wide range of talented people from various denominations. Hey... sounds a bit like what heaven might be like!By request, Brotherhood also took part in a Talent/Karaoke night which showcased our "other" talents such as comedy and acting. Dan is, by far, our best at both but big Mel is getting his acting legs under him, as well. Being a New Yorker, the Hee Haw skit was a bit of a stretch for me but was so much fun! Our thanks to Phil for putting it all together - it actually worked. I felt better when we concluded with a few "real" Brotherhood songs. As you can see, Christians can, and do, have fun!
The May schedule is still being worked on with a few ministry possible opportunities in a short window. Brotherhood continues to prepare diligently for our summer weekend road trip. This year we are headed west - west Florida, that is. We'll be in the Tampa/ St. Pete. area June 9-10 and will provide details to all our 'Hood followers living in FL.
Continue to keep us in your prayers and keep going strong for Him. We hope to see you "down the road" sometime soon!
In April, Brotherhood made a return engagement at the Volusia Music Club. We enjoy this event since it gives us the chance to connect with a wide range of talented people from various denominations. Hey... sounds a bit like what heaven might be like!By request, Brotherhood also took part in a Talent/Karaoke night which showcased our "other" talents such as comedy and acting. Dan is, by far, our best at both but big Mel is getting his acting legs under him, as well. Being a New Yorker, the Hee Haw skit was a bit of a stretch for me but was so much fun! Our thanks to Phil for putting it all together - it actually worked. I felt better when we concluded with a few "real" Brotherhood songs. As you can see, Christians can, and do, have fun!
The May schedule is still being worked on with a few ministry possible opportunities in a short window. Brotherhood continues to prepare diligently for our summer weekend road trip. This year we are headed west - west Florida, that is. We'll be in the Tampa/ St. Pete. area June 9-10 and will provide details to all our 'Hood followers living in FL.
Continue to keep us in your prayers and keep going strong for Him. We hope to see you "down the road" sometime soon!
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