Give Me a Year

going live at 2PM EST. I was building my audience. I had enough sense to know when you have something to say, you need people to listen. Just as when you are a leader, there must be a collection of followers. If when you look behind you and see no one is there, who or what are you leading? But it’s too early to get into that type of thinking. Let me continue to set the stage for GIVE ME A YEAR.
Before I get too far ahead of myself, I deem it necessary to take you back to January 7, 2018. The first Sunday of the new year. It snowed all night leaving a silky canvas of white on the trees and yards. Truly a majestic sight to see, but not to drive on. I got up that morning and debated (with myself) as to whether or not I was going to place my precious Cadillac on those icy, freshly salted roads or watch a sermon on the internet. Unfortunately, there was no anointing on the internet so I knew I had to get out in the elements. But the one thing about elements is if used correctly, they give and sustain life (that is the science teacher and Biology major in me, lol).

I trusted the elements and attended Maranatha Worship Center where Bishop Truman Martin is the presiding prelate (and established dentist in the city). Bishop Martin was in rare form that morning. He delivered a fiery message speaking about what God is prepared to do for those that believe and have enough faith to conceive. So glad I made the right choice. I, as well as the other congregants, were inclined to listen further. See, when I attend worship services, I continue to read scripture while the minister delivers the message. I am a reader and like to see what the scripture says for myself. I encourage you to do the same. In all aspects of life, seek out information for yourself. Do not take everyone’s word at face value. It’s like Ronald Reagan said, “trust, but verify.” Here is proof you must read for yourself. Finish this for me: The race is not given to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, (finish it here). I am certain many of you said, “to the one that endureth to the end.” Now, if you have your Bible, turn with me to Ecclesiastes 9:11. What does it say? Again, “trust, but verify” The true essence of learning takes place when the realization of truth or facts unknown become common to you based on your personalized study. When acquiring knowledge, seek out several sources before drawing an infinite conclusion.
Ok, back to the service! Bishop Martin preached the story of the fig tree that bore no fruit found in Luke 13:6-9. In this parable, there was a man that owned a vineyard. On his vineyard, there was a fig tree that bore no fruit. The owner of the tree spoke to the gardener and stated for three years, he had come to the tree to view its branches in anticipation of finding fruit only to be disappointed because it had yet to bear any fruit. He insisted that the keeper of the vineyard cut the tree down. His argument was based on the premise that allowing the tree to consume the elements and nutrients found in the ground was a waste. He stated that something more productive and gratifying could can be grown in its place. He was looking for a tree that would satisfy his appetite immediately. Isn’t that just like us? We want what we want, when we want it. No time for excuses because excuses don’t excuse and explanations don’t explain. If we don’t see what we want to see when we want to see it, we are prepared to move on to something else. From this, please begin to emulate patience. You may be tired of a situation or job that is not productive. Instead of quitting, be patient. Good things come to those who wait. They me be getting on your nerves, but trust me, at some point, they will get off them and you will begin to appreciate your profession again. Patience is the key to overcoming. Often times, quitting only provides temporary relief. Walking away from tasks incomplete or assignments unfulfilled may bring about a sensation of gratification and vindication, but how many of us have termed relationships, be it personal or professional, only to be miserable a few days later sitting with a tumultuous amount of regret and in some instances, inconceivable debt? Give it time. As scripture records, be anxious for nothing.