Warner Baptist Church, Lacy Blvd, Falls Church,my Journal thru "Express News"

Friday, September 30, 2022

Why dedicate a full Sunday School lesson to the birth of Moses?

Article 7 Volume 12 September 30, 2022

What is so special about the birth of Moses?

When I first saw the lesson for October 2, 2022, I wondered why are we spending a whole lesson on the birth of Moses. (Exodus 2:1-10). My initial reaction was to see if I could see anything special about this birth that would merit a whole lesson dedicated to the topic. Well, before I started talking, l needed to do some research. I found out that there can be some justified reasons. But my reasons will differ from what is in the printed lesson. Four of my reasons follow:

1. The mother wanted to save her child. She knew that the king wanted to kill all Jewish babies. She hid the baby for 3 months. Then she decided to put him in a basket and sent the basket floating in the river. This act was nothing but faith. What if that basket would have sunk? Also, consider the Nile river was dangerous in many ways, It was a home for at least 10 types of venomous snakes; then there were the crocodiles that were subject to attack anything that moved. Yet. despite all of these dangers, the basket sailed untouched down the Nile river. I am going to assume these dangers did not exist in the part of the river where the basket sailed because Pharah's daughter bathed in the river on a regular basis.

God was in control.

The ironic thing is the basket floated where it could be recovered by Pharoh's daughter. When the basket was pulled from the river, and the daughter saw the baby's eyes and smile there was no way she was going to let anything happen to that baby. Despite the hate that existed by the Egyptians toward the Jews. This lady was going to protect this baby.

2. It was recorded that Moses's sister Marian was present when the basket was removed from the river. She recommended that Moses' mother be used to nurse the baby. The princess agreed and paid Moses's mother to nurse him. The princess however adopted him.

Despite the king's order to kill all Hebrew babies, this child came into his household and he could not order this baby to be killed. His daughter was very adamant that this baby was going to live in the household.

3. What we can take away from this lesson, is that attitudes changes when people really get together in an eyeball-to-eyeball meeting.

We can see how attitudes, based on race changed when the baby's welfare was a factor.

4. Moses grew up in the King's household with all the privileges of a king's son, he still had to remember that he was a Hebrew and there were some things that even the king could not or would not protect him from.

Summary: It is not always good to just read the Sunday School lesson and call it a day. I believe that you must read and study beyond what is in the Sunday School book. This lesson is not just about the birth of Moses but about the impact his welfare had on the 5 people featured in this story as well as the Hebrews in the forthcoming generations. God was in the midst. It was Pharaoh's intent to use the Nile river to drown the future of the Hebrew people, but God used the river as a means to save and protect the deliverer of the Hebrew people and lead them to prosperity.

Also, as you study and teach this lesson, there are many opportunities to inject some Black History into the presentation.

I say that black folks were real slaves who spent more than 400 years in slavery in the United States, yet most of our study in the church is about the Hebrews in slavery. Generally, we only talk about Blacks in slavery during Black History Month.

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady E. Bryant Sr., obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Sunday, July 3, 2022

Donna Pearson, 60, of Arlington, Virginia passed away on June 24, 2022

Article 6 Volume 12 July 3, 2022

Donna Pearson, 60, daughter of Reverend Matthew J. Pearson, pastor of Warner Baptist Church, Falls Church, Virginia, passed away on June 24, 2022, in Arlington, VA. She is survived by her son, Matthew D. Pearson, and father, Rev Matthew J. Pearson, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be on July 7, 2022, at Warner Baptist Church, 3613 Lacy Blvd, Falls Church, Virginia. Viewing at 10:00 a.m., and service at 11:30 a.m. Details of more funeral arrangements will be announced or published through other media outlets.

Attendees are asked to wear a mask.

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady E. Bryant, Sr, obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Sunday, May 8, 2022

Part 1. Tribute to my mother, A Chowan Indian from Hobbsville, NC. nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn: Roxie Eure Bryant was a dedicated mother

Article 5 Volume 12 Mother's Day May 8, 2022

Dedication: This history story is dedicated to my family members who may have a lot of questions in the future about their heritage

Subject: My mother's joy in life was working for the well-being of others

My mother was born in Hobbsville, NC in the early 20th Century. She was the youngest of eight children of Mary Emma Green Eure. The eight children were: Henry; Isaac; Mable; Irma Lou; Novella; Gladys; Estelle and Roxie Eula.

Grandma Emma was a 100 percent Chowan Indian. Her father was Isaac Lee Eure an advocate for Indian rights. The family was farmers. There is no recorded history of slavery in the family. So, all indications are that my mother was a Chowan Indian girl, the daughter of a farming family.

When she was 12 years old she was given the task of caring for her older sister's seven children. This task limited her ability to attend school but somehow, she managed to get an education in reading, writing, and math. The level of her formal education is unknown.

In the late '30s, she met, fell in love, and married James Felmer Bryant, a farmer, who spent much of his early life helping care for his 9 younger siblings

My father and mother were the parents of seven children. They moved 5 times, in and around the Saratoga section of Suffolk before they finally were able to buy a house in the Pleasant Hills community of Suffolk in 1947. It was really a blessed day when we moved into that little house at 206 Baker Street.

The youngest child Elton ("Bow Bow") Ray was born in that house in 1949. His older siblings were Dallas Kaywood; Grady Eure; James ("Jeff"), Jr; Shirley Jean; Audrey Marie, and Albert "Pete" Lawrence: who passed away in August 2019. (All the children's last name is Bryant)

I am going to start tracking my mother's daily tasks in 1955. That school year she was tracking 7 children in 4 education facilities. High school, a 2-mile walk; elementary school, a 2 1/4 mile walk; neighborhood elementary school, 3 blocks, and a preschool somewhere in the community.

My mother's task was to see that all seven children were approximately dressed and went to their education facility.

Also, she had to make sure that all of them ate breakfast before they left home. Thus, she had to prepare breakfast. Before she prepared breakfast for the children, she had already prepared breakfast for my father and packed his lunch before he went to work at the sawmill.

My dear mother had accomplished all of the above before 9 a.m. Now, she can take a short break before going on to her next daily tasks.

(to be continued before May 31, 2022)

Part 2 Posted May 31, 2022

After a short break REB (Roxie Eula Bryant) begins preparing the wash load for the week. The children pumped 3 wash tubs full of water before they went to school. The water in thefirst tub is is heated with a portable electric water heater. (You put it in the tbub for about 20 minutes), the 2nd tub is rinse water #1, and the 2nd is rinse water #2.

She washes clothes twice a week for the whole family.

Piece by piece the clothes are washed and scrubbed on a scrubbing board and then rinsed in the two tubs with the rinse water by hands. Then the clothes are squeezed to remove the water.

Afterward, the clothes are hung on the clothes line, weather permitting.

After this task my mother takes another break. It is now noon time and REB has to start preparing supper for the nine member family. The supper will be ready at 6:30 p.m.

(to be continued)

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady Bryant, obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Saturday, April 30, 2022

Churches & religious organizations can use Building & Missionary donations only for designated purpose

Article 4 Volume13 April 30, 2022

Religious organizations, including churches, need to be mindful of how building and missionary fund donations are used

Building Fund Donations

There are a lot of churches raising money for building funds. But there is no formal plan in place to build anything. In some cases, it is something that was discussed as long as 30 years or more ago but nothing formal ever happened. In some cases, an architect is called in to draw up the plan. Money is raised and after a few years, the whole plan is abandoned. Sometimes more than $100,000 is raised and put in a building fund, and in some cases just maintained in the general fund and used for whatever is deemed necessary.

Can they do that? Well, this is not something for IRS ruling but is probable contingent on how state law rules apply to such matters. Many charities get around such laws by stating that the funds may be used for other purposes. However, that statement has to be made when or before the funds are collected.

What can the donors do? The donors can request that their donations be returned. There is a cy pres doctrine that allows charities to use funds as nearly as possible for the purpose given if circumstances have changed to the extent that the original intent is impractical. But such a ruling would have to go through a court or Attorney General and not a non-profit board.

Why would a donor want his or her money back? Well, they liked the idea that was advertised but not the decided use of their donation. In many cases, the donations are probably treated as general fund donations.

I would recommend that churches have a Building Fund Account in their church accounts ledger. Then within that account have an account dedicated to special donations. Let's say the account has $5,000 from the General Fund and $8,000 from a special donor. The accountant needs $7,000 for a special need that is not related to building the specific object that the $8,000 was donated. So, how much money is available for him to use? You are right if you said $5,000. The $8,000 must be used for the purpose that it was donated.

Missionary Fund Donations

The same principles above apply to funds raised for missionary funds. Often these donations are commingled with other funds and no distinctions are made in the use of the money.

For example, Mrs. Wycova donated $25,000 to be used only for the sick and shut-in. The church had a shortfall on a non-missionary matter. Mrs. Fargo, the church accountant, decided it was okay to use $6,000 of Mrs. Wycova's donations. Was she right? No, she wasn't.

Summary

This presentation was just to pass along some information on church bookkeeping and accounting. Many people believe that it does not matter how the books are kept or how the money is spent as long as it is accounted for on the books. On the contrary, there are laws and rules for nonprofit accounting for churches and religious organizations. However, many, if not most, settle for the mom-and-pop storekeeping method of accounting. I recognizeC it is what it is.

The opinions and suggestions made in this article were strictly those of Grady E. Bryant, Sr based on his knowledge and experience. It is not intended to be a mandate for you to follow without consulting your accountant or attorney. and doing your own research.

Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Black churches teach primarily Jewish history in Sunday School; whereas, only a tab bit of Black history is taught

Article 3 Volume 13 March 8, 2022

Thought: In February, every year the public is bombarded with news about Black history; then in March back to heavy doses of Jewish history

When I consider the year-round Sunday School lessons and presentations in black churches; all I see mostly is the struggles of the Jewish people. The lessons stress how they went through slavery and were delivered from bondage. Emphasis is put on how God heard their cry and delivered them. To be clear, I believe all of this happen and needs to be taught.

But as I listen and study this material, I wonder about black history. Didn't we go through slavery? We were real slaves. When we were somewhat freed in 1865, we did not have gold, silver, animals, and lots of clothes. Mostly all we had was what we wore and a small bag of belongings. My great-granddaddy use to tell the story about how they were free, but oh so lost on where to go and what to do.

We were not 6 or 7-year slaves but lifetime slaves.

It would be wonderful if our study could include from whence we came and how God delivered us. We called on God and he heard our cry. We are blessed. We are not just about singing and dancing and sports. Our children need to know that we had a rich history in Africa before slavery.

In our church study of Jewish history, we study in-depth their journey and trials and tribulations through history. Whereas, when I think about it, Black history focus on the achievement of a few. Just consider, there are millions of black heroes and pioneers that we never hear about. To be a hero or heroine, you don't have to be in the news.

In the month of February, there is a lot published and talked about. I say this could be year-round. We don't have to just make it one month a year.

In today's society, there is a push back on teaching black history in schools. This means that children will know even less about their black heritage. However, if the black churches continue their present practice, black children and adults will continue to soak in a lot of Jewish history.

Can the black churches find a way to teach more black history?

Our history is more than about athletes and entertainers.

As a child in Mary Estes Elementary School in Suffolk, Va we were taught that Africa was a lost continent. We believed that Tarzen was the king of the continent. So, Tarzan, Jane, Boy, and a monkey were in charge of all those dark people in the movie or Africa. Then, when I got to East Suffolk High school it didn't get much better. I remember one of my classmate's reports about how great life was for black folks in South Africa. What could we say? Our access to news was very limited.

Today, it is very different but it won't matter if true Black history is not taught in churches and community educational venues. Don't put your hope in the school systems.

Friday, February 18, 2022

Sunday School Lesson: A forensic view-Nathan confronts David about Bathsheba. Feb 6, 2022. Part 2 Continued

Part 2 ( Continued from Feb 16 blog) February 18, 2022

Article 2 Volume 13

Uriah came to town but he did not go see his wife as David had planned. This action by Uriah surprised David. Wonder why?

I believe that Uriah may have been told that David had spent some time with his wife in the palace. See, even though Uriah was away in the war zone the news may have reached him. You would be surprised how much news can reach a soldier when he is away from home. ( when I was in the army, 3,000 miles from home in France, you would be surprised to know how many letters I received from different people about my girl back home),

This possibility became more evident when David sent for Uriah to take a break from the war and come home. So when Uriah came home, he was suspicious that something was going on so he spent his time with the soldiers.

When David confronted him he gave him an explanation. Uriah's action lead to David giving him a letter to take back to the military leader. This letter gave instructions to the leader to place Uriah on the front line where his chances of survival would be very limited.

David's plan worked. Uriah was killed fighting in the war.

When Bathsheba heard that her husband was dead, she mourned for him; then when her mourning period was over David sent for her. She came, and became one of his wives. She gave birth to his son.

The Lord was very displeased with what David had done.

Chapter 12. The Prophet Nathan tells David a Parable

The parable is in verses 1-4. (Read it in your Bible). So David's anger was stirred up when he heard the parable. He told Nathan that the man should be put to death.

Then Nathan told David that he(David) was the man.

Through Nathan the Lord remained David of all that he had done for him. David was told that there would be much adversity in his household in the future. David confessed his sin to Nathan.

Nathan told David that the Lord had put away his sin and he would not die for committing it.

However, because of this deed, the child who is born to you shall surely die. Then Nathan departed to his household.

(It is taught by many and believed by more that the lost of the child was the only punishment. However, there was lots of adversity in David's household and family in future years. Some of the adversity encountered were: (1) Absalom killed his half brother Amnon because he had raped their sister, Tamar. David was the father of all three of the children. (2) Absalom was killed by Joab the commander of David's army. (3) Solomon kills his half brother Adonijah for trying to seize his throne. Both are David's sons. (4) Absalom attempted to take over David's kingdom.

So, you can see there was a lot of adversity in David's household that have a direct link to his sin regarding Bathsheba).

David pleaded with God for the child to live.

Nevertheless, the child died. After the child's death, David went in to comfort Bathsheba, his wife. After, he laid with her, she bore a son. They named him, Solomon.

Conclusion

What this analysis reveals is that David may have had more than a one night stand with Bathsheba. The time period from the beginning of the affair to the child's birth was longer than 9 months. Uriah was probably aware of David's scheme and that is the reason he did not see his wife when he came home on leave. David's sin, in future years, lead to much adversity in his household.

God forgave David for his he sin and David received many blessings in future years despite the adversities encountered.

One of the take away of this lesson is to seek God's forgiveness and don't think that you can outsmart God. Pray, and do not grow weary in praying.

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Sunday School Lesson- A forensic view: Nathan Confronts David about Bathsheba. Feb 6,2022

Article 1, Volume 13

Sunday School Lesson about David & Bathsheba from a forensic view

Biblical Reference is 2 Samuel: chapters 11 & 12

The Presentation

This story has been told many times in many different ways about what happened, how it happen, and the consequences. I listened to or viewed the presentation of at least 4 teachers. They were all in agreement about the consequences.

When you follow the script as outlined in the Sunday School book you don't have enough time to consider too many other matters that might enhance the lesson. That is okay and acceptable.

The view is like this: David was on the roof late at night and he saw this naked (assumption) woman bathing, in her back yard. She was beautiful. He inquired about her and sent for her to visit his palace. She came Then she went back home. After she got home she sent word to David that she was pregnant. David inquired about her husband, Uriah who was serving in David's army.

I want to point out, that while this drama is unfolding, David already has 6 wives and some children. Where were they?

I am going to pause here. I believe you probably know the rest of the story as traditionally taught. For the rest of the story, I'm going to use some forensic insight study analysis.

First, let me tell you how this forensic analysis approach started with me. It was many years ago at Mary Estes elementary, a little 4 room school in Suffolk, Virginia that served the three black communities in the nearby area. Most of the children did not have any pre-school training prior to starting school in the primary/first grade combined class. The school had two outdoor toilets and a pump outside for water. The heat was provided by two inside wood/coal heaters.

**When I was in the first grade, my teacher taught me to keep reading until I saw the Duck. What she was conveying to me was that I had to keep reading and analyzing until what I was reading was clear in my mind. I had to be sure that I saw a duck and not a chicken or rooster. Then, when it became clear to me I could tell it over and over with a better understanding.

**writer's metaphor

Continuing the story using forensic analysis insight

We know that Bathsheba went to David's palace after he sent for her. But apparently, it was not the same night. Look, he had to gather some information about her. So, when she did come, apparently they spent some time talking and getting to know each other. I'm not convinced that she did not know he was on the roof looking at her. So, she cunningly took her time doing what she was doing. She may have spotted David on the roof prior to that night.

How long did she stay? The Bible does not say. It could have been a day or maybe even a month.

However, after her stay she went back home. It was, most likely, at least 5 weeks before she informed him she was pregnant. See, it takes time for women to be certain. Immediately, the idea was brought forth to bring her husband home from the war. Was it David's idea or Bathshea's? (I am aware of at least 5 similar situations, and in each case, the plan was executed by the woman. My awareness may be based on something I read).

David arranged for Uriah to come home from the war and spend some time with his wife. Uriah came home but he surprised David. He did not spend any time with his wife. Wonder why?

( To be continued on Friday, February 18, 2022)

Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Sunday School Lessons: Do your study encourage you to read and search the scriptures more?

Article 1 Volume 12

Topic: Sunday School Lessons: Digging a little deeper September 28, 2021

I have been either a Sunday School student, teacher, or administrator, for more than 60 years. During that period I have learned a lot about the Bible. In the past 18 months, since Zoom became popular in churches, my desire to know more about the Bible has increased. Of course, I cannot bring up or present every question I have in class, because it would take up too much time or deviate too much from the lesson plan. I remember the times in my little wooden church in Suffolk, Virginia when one question from a student would consume about 30 minutes of the Sunday School hour.

Below are some of the points I'm going to be writing about in October and November 2021. My intent is to share what I found out by digging a little deeper or would like to know more about.

1. Noah's Ark. Did a lot of nonbelievers help him build it?

2. The power of Abraham's faith.

3. Where did the son of Adam and Eve go to find a wife?

4. The scripture gives varying answers on the topic of baptism. Where do you stand? When was baptism introduced in the Bible?

5. Is it true that once a person is saved, he/she is virtually guaranteed a seat in heaven?

6. Were the contents of the gospel in circulation before either book of the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John), was written?

7. How come 75 or more percent of the book of Mark is in Matthew and Luke books?

8. Do you believe that each writer independently gathered their information from the same sources?

9. Can you define the different types of Love? When is it okay to say, "I love you?

10. Do you believe Ester worshiped and believed in God? Read the book before you answer.

11. Explanation of the difference between Founded and Established when determining the beginning dates for schools, churches, colleges, and organizations.

Well, that is enough to keep me busy for October and November. Oh, there is one more thing, many of us really cling to the old King James bible. What do we know about King James? Look him up on google.

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady E. Bryant, Sr obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Monday, July 27, 2020

Rev Matthew J Pearson preaches about you examing your progress with God and man

Article 3 Volume 10

Date: July 26, 2020 Place: Warner Baptist Church

The service was broadcast via Zoom. Several members participated in the service. Sister Clara "Tinka" Payne was the facilitator.

Scripture; Luke chapter 2: 41-52
Text: Take a look at your progress with God and man

Sermon
**Jesus earthly parents made their annual trip to Jerusalem to attend the feast of the passover.
On their way back home they noticed that Jesus was not with them.When they could not find their twelve-year old son among the travelers they returned to Jerusalem and found him in the temple talking with the teachers. These type of encounters with teachers and elders enabled Jesus to increase in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
We see that Jesus was gathering knowledge that would enable him in later life to deal with all kind of situations,as he went forth carrying out the the mandate of God.
You will note that Jesus stayed focus on pleasing God. His actions pleased some men but not all. That is alright. Work to please God and man can fall in line. Some will and some won't. That is okay as long as you are doing what is right. Man will double cross you, so strive to please God and he will be with you through troubling and good times.
So, in conclusion, examine how you are progressing with God and man. But be focused on pleasing God.
Amen.
_________________________________________________________________________
That is the gist of the sermon today today. I encourage you to read Luke Chapter 2 in its entirety. It is on your phone. Just google the book of Luke and go to chapter 2.
_________________________________________________________________________
** The sermon was slightly augmented for presentation and enhancement purposes.
You will note that Jesus was talking with men whom he could learn from. He was not engaged in slander and gossip. What about you?
________________________________________________________________________
Copyright (c) 2020 Grady E. Bryant, Sr. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady E. Bryant, Sr obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Saturday, July 18, 2020

Rev. Matthew Pearson delivers message on a scattered church being together in spirit

Article 2 Volume 10
Date of Event: July 12, 2020
Place: Warner Baptist Church

A scattered church can still be together in the spirit

The service today was broadcast by ZOOM. The listeners were treated to some outstanding gospel music by 4 members of the church. They were: Sister Charlene Purdy, Deaconess Shirley Saunders, Deaconess Lillie Warner, and Brother Rick Ellibe. Deacon Guy Williams rendered the prayer for the service. Sister Mary Walker presented a poem and Sister Carolyn Edwards gave a brief history that was highlighted about her experience growing up in WBC with emphasis on homecoming day. Sister Clara "Tinka" Payne was the facilitator.

Reverend Matthew Pearson, the pastor, was the preacher for this homecoming day service.

Sermon & Scripture
Scripture: Acts 8th Chapter and Genesis 49:10
Subject: A scattered church and the gathering of the saints

Sermon
Today, Homecoming Day, for this church, we are celebrating in a different manner. No food, guest preacher, visiting preacher and church, and many other things we did be tradition or custom through the years. Be it that we are in different locations, we can still let people know about the goodness of God and salvation. God has made a way for us to come together through electronic means.
Although we are scattered today in different places we can still worship together and share God's Word. In the scripture, the messengers were scattered throughout the region after persecution against the church occurred. In chapter 8, verse 4 the scattered men went everywhere preaching the Word. They did not let the conflict stop them. Philip was outstanding.* *
Today, we are hindered somewhat by Cov-19, but it cannot stop us. God has made it possible for his Word to still be delivered and the unsaved to be saved.
Though we are scattered, the day will come when the scattered saints of God's church will be gathered and brought home. So let us go forth lifting up God's name, even Cov-19 cannot stop us from doing that. Show love and be good and encouraging and helpful to each other and remember that God is still good and merciful to us. This Cov-19 will come to an end.
**In verse 12, Philip went down to Samaria and preached the things concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, and both men and women were baptized.
Amen.
_______________________________________________________________________________

That is the gist of the sermon today. I encourage you to read Acts chapter 8 in its entirety. it is on your phone. Just google the book of Acts then go to chapter 8.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Rev Pearson is in his 49th year (48 completed) as pastor of WBC and still delivering inspiring and uplifting sermons.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*** The sermon was slightly augmented for presentation and enhancement purposes.
======================================================================
Copyright(c}2020. Grady E. Bryant, Sr. All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady Bryant, obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Monday, July 6, 2020

Onward with the Preach Word: Rev Stan Bradby delivers message on surviving thru the C-VD-19 Crisis

Article 1 Volume 10 July 6, 2020
Date of Event: July 5, 2020 Place: Warner Baptist Church

An Anchor of Faith

Rev Stanley Bradby delivered a timely message, through Zoom, on surviving thru the current crisis we are experiencing.

I'll present my recap of the service:

Scripture: Psalm 27:1-3 (The Lord is my light and salvation -whom shall I fear...)
Text: An Anchor of Faith

Sermon

In times like these, some people can manage better than others. Many are not prepared for this crisis. They have put their faith in men, women, money, and worldly possessions. However, we must know that God is the answer. God has all power. Consider how he opened the Red Sea for the Israelites to cross over to dry land and the many other miracles that he performed in the Bible.
We need to know that God has a plan to deliver us through this crisis. We must be steadfast and trust God. We must be or get anchored in the Lord. If you do that then everything is going to be alright.
People often ignore signs and do foolish things, like not wearing face masks, congregating too close, not washing hands, and not adhering to other advised safety precautions. It is better to do the right thing than try to explain why you did the wrong thing.
These are tough times but we must still show passion and love for one another. It is not hard. Just do it and you may be surprised at the blessings that come your way.
In closing, if you have Jesus, then you have somebody who can carry you through. Just believe and be anchored in the Lord. Are you anchored?
(I recommend that you read Psalm 27 in its entirety. You can do that on your phone through Google.)
(The message was augmented slightly for presentation purposes. )

Copyright 2020 Grady E. Bryant, Sr. All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady Bryant, obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Black Folks: Why Do You Attend Watch Meetings?

Article II, Volume IX December 31, 2019
(Mrs. Elizabeth Hall funeral information
is on the previous page (Article 1, Vol IX}

Watch Meeting

It is a long-time practice for black folks to be in a church when the New Year comes in. It is said by many that this practice started in December 1862 to celebrate the Emancipation Proclamation that was signed by Abe Lincoln on September 22, 1862, to free slaves, (not all), effective on January 1, 1863. The story goes, the slaves went into the church on New Year Eve as slaves and came out on January 1,1863, after midnight, free from slavery.

(This story was originally published on my blog, All in All, Expressions of Grady E. Bryant on December 30, 2012

You can continue reading it at www.myopinions999.blogspot.com

Me? I'm headed to a watch meeting. I'm going to be late but I'll be on time.
You must read my Watch Meeting experience at www.esh60.blogspot.com

Happy New Year!

People who visit this website, also visit: www.esh60.blogspot.com
and, www.churchmatters999.blogspot.com
and, www.myopinions999.blogspot.com

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady Bryant, obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Monday, December 30, 2019

Elizabeth Hall, 89, Bailey's Crossroads, Va Community Activist, Passed Away

Article 1, Volume 1X December 30, 2019

Mrs. Elizabeth Hall, Community Activist, Civic leader, and spokesperson

Mrs. Elizabeth Hall, a long-time resident in Baileys Crossroads, Virginia died on December 26, 2019, in Alexandria Hospital, Alexandria, Virginia.

She was a long-time member (over 60 years) of Warner Baptist Church. Reverend Matthew J. Pearson is the Pastor.

Mrs. Hall was a retired Federal Government worker and at the time of her death, she was an employee and a volunteer worker at the Baileys Community Center in Baileys Crossroads, Virginia.

Funeral arrangements are pending. Upon completion, they will be announced by some communication means.

Update from family: 6 P.M. 12/31/19, funeral service will be on Thursday, Jan 9, 2020. No decision on the place and time.

Update: 4:30 p.m. 01/02/2020. Funeral services will be on Thursday. January 9, 2020, at Warner Baptist Church, Lacy Blvd, Falls Church, Virginia. The viewing will be from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and the service will commence at 10 a.m.

People who visit this site also read: www.esh60.blogspot.com
and: www.myopinions999.blogspot.com

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady E. Bryant, Sr, obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Warne Baptist Vacation Bible School is in session this week June 18-22, 2018. Lesson Outline for Thursday June 21.

Article 3 Volume 8

Topic for Week: God Makes a Way 24/7, 365!

All of the lessons this week in all of the classes relate to the topic.

The subject for the adult class lesson on June 21: Dressed by God

Following is the lesson outline for the adult class

Scripture: Luke 12:22-31

Phil 4:5-7

1. Treatment of all people

2. Don't be anxious about anything (Pray)

3. I GOT SHOES

a. Slave Ancestors

(Sing about shoes) (clothes) (gold) (shouting)

b. Look for a brighter day

4. Anxiety about our needs

(food, clothes, rent, mortgage, car note, tuition, clothes)

(Do you have enough?)

(Gospels directed at certain groups)

5. Rich worry about dying rich than they do about living rich

6. Tell brother to share family inheritance

7. Brief discussion about inheritance

8. Rich man wanted more! ! Was he motivated by greed or worried about

not having enough?

9. Never consider unclean what God has made pure (Acts 10:15)

10. Lilies like dandelions or wildflowers

11. Pray and give thanks ( Phil 4: 6)

12. How can you simplify your life?

13. I'm going to leave you in the hands of the Lord (two minutes)

14. Amen

Teacher: Deacon Grady Bryant

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady Bryant,obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Black History Month: We are Black History

Article 2fo

The folks of yesteryear paved the way for many of the changes we see. The changes they influenced made the doors ajar. But the trail blazers of following years have helped open the doors a little bit more.
(To be continued)

Disclaimer: The news and views expressed on this site are strictly those of Grady Bryant,obtained from information made available to the general public through bulletins, public events, announcements, and services that were open to the general public. This website is not officially endorsed by Warner Baptist Church.