I figured that would get your attention.
The thread I started this morning was one I felt compelled to share because on the attached video it spoke of the shame of AIDS. It spoke of those that needed an example of grace because for so many dying with AIDS there haven't been many examples to cause them to believe that God's grace was sufficient for even their needs.
Many of you I've known or I've met through my years of association with the UPCI. I didn't leave the UPCI, but I realized that it had left me. I am dying of AIDS. I know longer will hide in shame for I was made in my God's image: Though flawed and scarred, I won't ever forget his work in my life. I've lost my wife, my family, my church, but I thank God everyday that I have not lost my faith. I didn't let the tragedies of life harden my heart. I'm no saint by any stretch of the imagination, I'm just a product of my maker's hands.
This day was significant for me in many ways. First of all, for me to telling you of my condition was liberating and a huge step for me personally. The other significance of this day was when I began typing this post, I heard the many thousands who were marching in today's AIDS walk along Allen Parkway. I live just off of Allen Parkway in downtown Houston and I forgot that today was the march.
I was there marching with them this time last year, though I was ill, I finished the walk. I didn't want to believe it would be my last one, but somehow I knew it would be. I'm thankful that there are those that take the time to care about raising awareness and funds in the battle against AIDS.
I've been very emotional today realizing the tremendous need of workers to minister to the outcast of our society: Workers who know Jesus and could be an effective tool of the Lord to reach those nearest to death.
Through my ministry, I've worked side by side with many people including gay ministers. Many who meant well by devoting their time to AIDS suffers, but became an obstacle to their salvation. Without the power of the Holy Ghost and the authority of Jesus' name the devils won't leave those on their death beds. He almost has them for eternity.
I've witnessed souls that at the very last moment screamed Jesus, Jesus! The screams of one bound for hell. There are people on this forum who have been deceived if they think there is no hell. Sit beside a bed of a man who saw the demons coming for him, who earlier denied there ever was a Christ and yet spent his last bit of energy screaming in terror for mercy.
We are living in the last days and there is such a spirit of deception that's been at work for many years and it is now that we see the fruits of that spirit. That spirit is the spirit of the Antichrist. God wants us to live in liberty and grace, but don't comprise the truth to the point that deception.
This week God showed me that his word was true once again. I had been contemplating for several months whether to sell my house and move to something more manageable. I have all this space, but I only live in three rooms. It just didn't make a whole lot of sense to stay here.
I was approached by a lady I knew while working and she told me that God had spoken to her about me and she had a home that she wanted me to come look at. It just so happens that she lives in a home directly behind the one she wanted me to look at.
She lost both of her parents in the last two years and never had any children. She had been lonely and while praying in a Catholic mass the Lord whispered my name to her. I was able to go see the home this week and I knew it was God's plan and his timing.
He promised to give us the desires of our hearts if we would follow him and not only does he give us what we desire, he ensures that every detail is giving to us.
I wanted two master bedrooms for privacy if the time came that I would need assistance and personal care. Also, I wanted a space for my home office and lots of windows to let in the sunshine. Not only did he give me all of that, but each bathroom has those big cast iron tubs, with the claw feet just like the one from my childhood. Only Jesus knew that I wanted a big cast iron tub with claw feet that I can take long baths.
I thank my loving Jesus who gave me life and hope through the darkest of times. I lift him up and give him all that I have for he is all that I ever wanted. He is my everything. I spend every day with him: He loved me and accepted me when no one would: He never left me when others fled: He was my family when I had no family: He gave strength and encouragement when hope seemed all but lost.
I apologize for this being so lengthy, but I'm not sure if after what I've disclosed if I would be welcomed back. I would want you to know that people need love and fellowship regardless of what society would think of them. Give a part of yourself to minister to others outside of your comfort zone. I'm not asking for myself...I'm asking for those who would never ask for fear of being rejected.
May God richly bless you and keep you in perfect peace. Never put limits on the grace and mercy of our Father.
chosenbyone
livingbygrace
PS: Cooper you keep fighting the good fight and pray daily that God would heal the wounds that you may not even see: Sister, Rhoni, send me an email. I'm looking forward to your visit next month: RRford, Coonskinner and Malvaro give Rhoni a break and pick on each other for awhile: Dan thanks for sharing your tunes and being a cool brother in the Lord. You made me laugh on days that laughter was much needed: Falla39 thank you for being a lovely example of a Christian: Barb your sweet nature really shines on this forum. Your toughness and your smile reminds me of my dear mother: Felicity don't change a thing....your simplistic style of writing and your wit brought many smiles....you're so sweet.
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