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JESUS TAKES UP HIS CROSS – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross (VIDEO)   LYRICS TO MUSIC: So he then Handed him On to them To be crucified   They took him And he went Out bearing His own cross   To the place Called the place Of the skull Golgotha   There they crucified him   MESSAGE SUMMARY:    From Rembrandt to Francis Bacon, most visual representations throughout art history portray Jesus carrying the entirety of the cross. Though this picture is common, it is unlikely. The object Jesus was made to carry would have probably been only the horizontal beam, known as the patibulum. A full cross would have weighed well over 300 pounds, a near impossible feat for someone post Roman flogging. The patibulum likely weighed somewhere between 75-125 pounds, and would have been placed across the nape of the victim’s neck, balancing upon their shoulders. It was sometimes tied to the victim’s arms.     Immediately preceding Jesus taking up his cross, we must remember that he had been brutally tortured and beaten. His body would have been beginning to break down. Yet, he is made to carry the object that would eventually administer his death. The physical weight of this crossbeam amidst the circumstances is unimaginable, and we know that eventually this weight required the help of a bystander (Mark 15:21).     Though its material mass was certainly substantial, how much more the weight that was immeasurable? This beam would support the weight of the world’s sins, as it raised the Son of God from the ground. This beam would eventually take the Son of God’s life, and usher in Jesus’ separation from his Father. This beam would become the emblem of Christ’s sacrifice, and be displayed for the remainder of history as such.   Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: Pray for a better understanding of both the physical and spiritual ‘weight’ of the cross. Where can you share in Christ’s sufferings? Pray that the symbol of Jesus’ death and resurrection would have true meaning, and be a light to the world. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Heartlessness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Kindness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 19:16-18: “Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle.”. Further Reading: Mark 15:20. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

JESUS IS SCOURGED AND CROWNED WITH THORNS – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross (VIDEO)   LYRICS TO MUSIC: He spoke his preparation he spoke of this time Said they will hand him over To be mocked to be flogged to be crucified   So they led him down to the post he knew To be tied and bound to be stripped and bruised With a scarlet robe wrapped around his frame They spit insults inside a deserving name   Then the whip falls down on his back You come again with your nine black straps Whip fall down you can have your day For these stripes will heal these stripes will save   You can strike this man you can make him bleed But some day you’ll answer On your knees   Wind those thorns make your cursed crown While you bind those horns trap a good reason There’s a sacrifice on the table set But Abe’s son was spared and the Lord’s he forgets   You can strike this man you can make him bleed But some day you’ll answer On your knees   Whip fall down would you make your mark You have set the stage you are just the start You have paved the way you are just the start…   MESSAGE SUMMARY:  When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, ‘Abraham, Abraham!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.’ And Abraham lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.” (Genesis 22:9-13). Genesis 22 relates quite possibly one of the most memorable occurrences in the Bible. God’s miraculous providence in Abraham’s situation is fascinating. At the call of God, Abraham went up to the mountains in Moriah. He intended to lay his one and only son Isaac on an altar, and sacrifice him unto the Lord. For this is what God had commanded Abraham to do. Just as the knife was raised, the Angel of the Lord stopped Abraham. There in a thorn bush, caught by his horns, is a ram. This ram takes the place of Isaac on the altar. This ram dies in Isaac’s place, and in doing so, grants Isaac new life. The prophetic imagery that pulses through this story is remarkable. A ‘lamb’ of God, whose head is entangled in thorns becomes the sacrifice required. A thorn-wrapped replacement for the one who deserves death. This image prefigures Jesus, centuries before he himself is crowned with thorns by the Roman guards. But Jesus’ suffering went far beyond the piercing crown he was bestowed. And this was only the beginning of his physical torment. We know from historical accounts that Roman flogging was a legal and common precursor to death by crucifixion. It’s intensity and duration differed, but its harshness and cruelty was second to none. The common instrument was a short whip with braided leather thongs. Attached to the leather strips were small iron balls or sharp pieces of bone. The recipient was stripped, and his hands were bound to a post. The back, buttocks, and legs were flogged. The abuse was intended to weaken the victim to a state just short of collapse or death. Roman soldiers would repeatedly strike the prisoner, creating deep contusions, cutting into the skin and underlying tissue, and eventually creating lacerations in the underlying muscle and bone. Pain and blood loss generally set the stage for circulatory shock. And so began the physical torment of Jesus. After beating him, the Roman guards mocked him, and adding insult to their physical abuse, they placed upon him a ‘twisted’ crown of thorns. And so, in what Abraham was prepared to do, God actually did. The only Son of the Father was cast into thorns and sacrificed in our place. We cannot forget that on the day of judgment, we will be like Isaac. Standing before God, we will deserve death. We will deserve to be flogged for our transgressions. But a King crowned with thorns has taken our place. ‘God made him who had no sin to be sin for us,’ (2 Corinthians 5:21). God knew that Isaac’s blood could not take away the sins of the world. Isaac could never bear the burden of all mankind. Jesus is the only one who could. Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: Meditate on Christ’s love which endured excruciating pain for you. Thank God for doing what Abraham was prepared to do. Thank Jesus for taking the death and punishment you deserve. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Resentment. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Compassion. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 19:1-3: “When Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe and went up to him again and again, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” And they slapped him in the face.”. Further Reading: Matthew 27:27-31; Mark 15:16-20; Luke 22:63-65; Genesis 22:13; Isaiah 50:6-7. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

JESUS IS JUDGED BY PILATE – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross (VIDEO)   LYRICS TO MUSIC: Husband come and hear my plea I’ve seen this man you keep He visits me between the walls of my dreams He comes upon the whitest righteous wings   I see the crowd turn and move as one They’re fools to follow themselves they’re fools in what they want   His blood’s upon their hands and on their children’s fate It wasn’t made to bathe their greed still it was made for this very claim   Do not break do not lose to the roaring round What they beg of you what their voices howl It’s an evil born from their bones that they don’t know   I heard you ask what you already know Where is he from where will he go It was he who said his kingdom’s not of here And a throne I cannot see is a throne that I must fear   Do not break do not lose to the roaring round What they beg of you what their voices howl It’s an evil born from their bones that they don’t know   MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In support of the gospels, a good amount of extra-biblical evidence exists about the man Pontius Pilate. We know he was the governing leader of the Roman province of Judea from approximately AD 26-36. We know he served under Emperor Tiberius. We know he was the man who ultimately decided Jesus’ fate, handing him over to the crowds to be crucified. Very little is known about Pilate’s wife however. Though Pilate’s interaction with Jesus is seen in all four gospels, all that is known about his wife comes from a single verse in Matthew. “Now as he [Pilate] was seated in the chair of judgment, his wife sent him a message, ‘Have nothing to do with that innocent man; I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him’ (Matthew 27:19). Dreams can be fascinating. Stirring, vivid collections of the senses can be produced in the mind, all while the body is at rest. Pilate’s wife’s dream must have been particularly impressive. So powerful and moving that she ‘suffered’ because of it. No more details of her dream are known beyond that it concerned Jesus, and that she somehow knew him to be innocent or upright. Maybe she saw Jesus coming on the clouds with glory. Maybe she saw him sitting upon the judgment seat. Perhaps her dream was just an encounter with Christ, and while in his presence she realized his holiness and simultaneously, her unworthiness. But this is all conjecture. What is known from scripture is that a woman sent her husband an urgent message, warning him not to condemn the man who stood before him. She had come to some understanding of who Jesus was, and her understanding led to knowledge and fear. The famous preacher Charles Spurgeon put it well. “Most dreams we quite forget; a few we mention as remarkable, and only now and then one is impressed upon us so that we remember it for years. Scarcely have any of you had a dream which made you send a message to a magistrate upon the bench.” It is truly a unique situation. God gives Pilate’s wife new perspective. God uses Pilate’s wife to warn him. Though Pilate certainly did not know it, this was no doubt one of the most crucial and important renderings of judgment in history. And amidst his deliberation comes a simple message from his bride. Don’t do it. Don’t condemn this man. But the crowds had a different message. “Crucify him!” Again and again. “Crucify him!” Pilate knows the truth. He says so himself, “the man has done nothing to deserve death,” (Luke 23:15), and he was even “anxious to set [Jesus] free,” (John 19:12). His wife’s plea only reiterates what he already knew. Jesus was innocent. He was faultless. He in no way deserved punishment. But as the crowd continued their chanting, Pilate’s anxiety grew in another way. Mark 15:15 says that he was ‘anxious to placate the crowd.’ How often is this our response? We know something to be true in our spirit, but everyone else contradicts it. The crowd or culture shouts, screams, and clamors with ‘Crucify him,’ and it becomes increasingly difficult to stand against them. It is a far easier path to blend in and become one of the mob, even if we don’t agree. So that is often what we do. Jesus says in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Despite his own feelings, and a unique message from his wife, Pilate chose the wide path of destruction. Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: Would you have chanted with the crowd that day? Pray for conviction to stand up for your beliefs. Ask God for integrity and strength at all times and in all circumstances, whether public or private. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will proclaim Him. (Philippians 1:15f). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 27:11-26: “Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” “You have said so,” Jesus replied. When he was accused by the chief priests and the elders, he gave no answer. Then Pilate asked him, “Don’t you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?” But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor. Now it was the governor’s custom at the festival to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd. At that time they had a well-known prisoner whose name was Jesus Barabbas. So when the crowd had gathered, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you: Jesus Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” For he knew it was out of self- interest that they had handed Jesus over to him. While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.” But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed. “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor. “Barabbas,” they answered. “What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked. They all answered, “Crucify him!” “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!” When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!” All the people answered, “His blood is on us and on our children!” Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.”. Further Reading: Mark 15:1-15; Luke 23:1-23; John 18:28-40. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

JESUS DENIED BY PETER – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross   LYRICS TO MUSIC: I said even if everyone else Turns on you I promise I never will I thought you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me…   I screamed even if I have to die I’m never never gonna deny you I thought you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me…   You used the words of an old gone man Said God will strike the shepherd down I know these lines have never been wrong before But I swear they won’t define me now I knew you were wrong wrong wrong Wrong about me… When she asked her question That servant girl she broke my heart I knew she was the message That you had spoken all along Two behind her followed in the prints her feet had made Said they’d seen me walking with you said my tongue gave me away But I swore against their charges claimed you I’d never known Just in time to hear the bird you promised lift its head and crow Lift its head and crow   Oh Jesus I wish you were wrong wrong wrong  Wrong about me…   MESSAGE SUMMARY:  Peter’s three-fold denial of Jesus is a well documented incident. Not only is it recorded in all four of the gospel accounts, but history has provided a wealth of art, music, and writing to immortalize one man’s set of egregious mistakes. A lesser known addition to this collection is a poem written by pastor John Piper entitled ‘Peter and John.’ The work examines Peter’s denial from some years after the fateful event, by imagining a reunion between the two disciples. Piper’s words are simple. His rhyme and rhythm straightforward. Still they paint a powerful picture of unbearable regret. As they reminisce, Peter confides in John that his denial of Jesus still haunts him. Peter’s mistake has grown into a plaguing remorse, despite any good work he can do in Jesus’ name. Though the conversation is entirely speculative, Piper’s assumptions could very well be true. Jesus predicted Peter’s behavior, and even with a warning, Peter turned his back on his friend and Savior. We know Peter was an emotional and zealous man. He was the one with the courage to step out of the boat in Matthew 14:22-33. He rebukes Jesus when Jesus predicts his own death (Matthew 16:22- 23). Peter draws the sword and cuts off the soldier’s ear in the garden. And when Jesus says that all of his friends will leave him, Peter declares with full intent and belief, “even if all fall away, I will not,” (Mark 14:29). Jesus’ reply must have been heart breaking to such a devoted man: “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “today - yes, tonight - before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.” What a blow this must have been to Peter’s spirit! It was a statement that directly challenged his devotion. But what Jesus says is true, even when it may confuse or be hard to stomach. Remember, Jesus also proclaimed that Peter would be the rock on which the church would be built. This too is true. And what an empowering truth that must have been! Peter certainly stepped into this role after Jesus’ departure. Not wallowing in his mistakes, but becoming the man that Jesus saw in him. Though Piper’s poem spends a good deal of its time illustrating Peter’s burden, it also accurately portrays Christ’s desire for full forgiveness and redemption. He ends the conceived conversation with John laying hands on Peter and praying for him: …And so John laid His hands on Peter’s head and prayed: Come now, O Lord, and touch with me, Come, Jesus, heal the memory Come, Spirit, spread a table here: No sin, no guilt, no pain, no fear. Come pour the cup and break the bread, And lift your servant Simon’s head, And feed him with your righteousness, And make the cup of blessing bless… Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: All of us are often like Peter. We want to follow Jesus, but we are weak. The truth is we love him in spite of our denials. Ask Jesus to forgive you for when you deny him. Receive his forgiveness. Ask Jesus to speak encouragement over you, and open your eyes and heart to the truth of who he has made you to be. Tell Jesus you love him. uhj TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Self-Centeredness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Love. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:66-72: “While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by. When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him. “You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said. But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway. When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, “This fellow is one of them.” Again he denied it. After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know this man you’re talking about.” Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.” And he broke down and wept.”. Further Reading: Mark 14:27-30; Matthew 26:69-75; Luke 22:54-62; John 18:25-27; Zechariah 13:7. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

JESUS CONDEMNED BY THE SANHEDRIN – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross   LYRICS TO MUSIC: Why do you come against me Why do you seek false testimony I tell you you will find none But still you say ‘Show us, show us you Son of God’   Two have brought their witness Saying ‘he will destroy he will rebuild in three days’ No words I say could sway you But still you say by the Living God ‘Show us, show us you Son of God’   What blasphemy what further need Now tell me people what do you think He deserves death every bit of it Come prophesy whose mouth forfeits this ‘Show us, show us you Son of God’ MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In the summer of 1933, John Lomax visited the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola with a singular goal: to collect and record American folk music. A pioneer musicologist and folklorist, Lomax was influential in the preservation of much of America’s folk music. But it was in that particular June, amidst a stifling Louisiana summer, that he recorded the oldest surviving rendition of ‘He Never Said A Mumblin’ Word.’ The now commonly known American spiritual originated in the deep south many years before Lomax’s recording. It chronicles some of the specific events during the crucifixion of Jesus, but within the simple words of the refrain lies its power: ‘And he never said a mumblin’ word, not a word, not a word, not a word.’ That Jesus would be falsely accused, spit on, and struck, and yet not speak out a word in his own defense is fascinating. Jesus becomes the definition of what it means to be meek. The people cry out for displays of his power, commanding him to ‘prophecy’ as they beat him with their fists (Mark 14:65), yet Jesus’ mouth remains shut. Why would Jesus allow false testimony after false testimony come against him, and not defend himself? Peter’s first letter to the exiles answers this question beautifully. “[Jesus] committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return, when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly,” (1 Peter 2:22-23). Jesus was able to be meek because he trusted his Father in heaven. Jesus was able to be meek because he knew his Father’s plan was perfect, despite blasphemous accusations. Jesus held his tongue because he trusted the only just judge. This can be incredibly difficult to do. Our culture often promotes, even rewards, self-centeredness and aggression. All the while, meekness is often associated with weakness and submission. Numbers 12:3 tells us that ‘…Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.’ As we know from Moses’ life, being passive and submissive was not his thing. Nor could this erroneous definition be applied to Jesus when he turned the tables in the temple (Matthew 21:12), or when he called out the scribes and pharisees for being hypocrites (Matthew 23:12-13). The Bible shows us that meekness does not mean weakness. The King of Kings is ‘gentle and humble in heart,’ (Matthew 11:29), but that in no way lessens his strength and power, ‘for all authority in heaven and on earth’ is his (Matthew 28:18). Before the chief priests and the whole council, as part of his Father’s perfect plan, Jesus only speaks when the high priest asks him, ‘Are you the Christ…’ To this question he replies with an all-powerful truth. ‘I am; and you shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.’ This is the man Jesus, meek and mild, yet possessing the full power of the Almighty. Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: When do you seek power when you should pursue peace? Ask God to create in you a sense of true meekness. Entrust your life, your circumstances, and your reputation to the One who judges justly. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:55-65: “The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree. Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with human hands and in three days will build another, not made with hands.’” Yet even then their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?” But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked. “You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” They all condemned him as worthy of death. Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him.”. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

JESUS BETRAYED BY JUDAS AND ARRESTED  – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross (VIDEO)   LYRICS TO MUSIC: Who is this that comes amidst The shadows in the night Swords and spears and one man’s kiss The weapons at their side His words are empty his lips no more Do what you have come for   Why do you march on him As though you have met your match Twelve legions wait upon him But his Father holds them back Choose wise the side you take up in this war But do what you have come for   For this is your hour this is the reign Of darkness unmentioned of darkness untamed   You ask his name as though He is some thief you’ve longed to see His answer short but shakes the air And drags you to your knees He stood in the temple he lived upon its floor But do what you have come for   For this is your hour this is the reign Of darkness unmentioned of darkness untamed So over and over his mercies can come To fly the banner high and victorious   MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In Matthew 26:14, we see Judas’ preparations for his betrayal: “[He] went to the chief priests and said, ‘What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?’ And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.” The Lord, the Savior of all mankind was bought and sold. Ostensibly without contemplation, Judas takes the priests’ offer, and exchanges his friend and teacher for money. If there ever was a priceless man, it certainly was Jesus. If ever there was a man too powerful and full of worth to be arbitrarily cast into bondage, it most definitely was Jesus. Yet, thirty pieces of silver claims him. It was not a particularly small fee, for we know the sum was able to purchase the ‘Potter’s Field’ (Matthew 27:7, Acts 1:18). But it was not an exorbitant amount either, probably equal to between a few weeks and a few months worth of the common laborer’s wages. Though the priests’ chosen fee seems small and insignificant, it simultaneously tells a deeply beautiful and prophetic story. In Exodus 21:32 we see that upon the death of a slave, the owner of that slave is owed “thirty silver coins.” The price that the Law fixed for a slave, the lowest of men, is the same price that was paid for the greatest of men. Jesus becomes the perfect example of his own words, “So the last shall be first, and first last” (Matthew 20:16). 1 Peter 2:7 tells us that for those who believe, “Jesus Christ is precious.” How true this is, and yet he humbled himself (Philippians 2:8) even in this seemingly minute detail. We know this was all part of God’s plan. The Gospel of Matthew reminds us that Messianic prophecy in both Jeremiah and Zechariah predict these events. Zechariah 11 paints a picture of Jesus as the ‘Good Shepherd,’ who is detested by his sheep. When his wages are ‘weighed out’ for his priceless work, thirty pieces of silver is all he is paid, an insultingly small amount. The Roman guards mocked Jesus, even spitting on him (Matthew 27:29- 31). But Jesus was insulted long before this, being bought for the price of a slave. This is Jesus. Sharing the worth of the lowest of men. Dying for every man, rich or poor, free or in bondage. Jesus even calls his betrayer ‘friend,’ as Judas kisses him and hands him over to the Roman guard (Matthew 26:50). Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: When have you taken advantage of our priceless Savior? Do your prayers reflect the way you esteem him? Jesus, the priceless Son of God, was betrayed by one of his closest friends. Have you ever betrayed someone for your own profit? Repent and ask Jesus for the strength to seek reconciliation. Have you ever been betrayed by someone close to you? Ask Christ for the strength to forgive them. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:43-46: “And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.” And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him. And they laid hands on him and seized him. But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. And Jesus said to them, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” And they all left him and fled.”; Further Reading: Matthew 26:47-56; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:1-14; Zechariah 11:12; Exodus 21:32. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say He Loves You: Part 5 The New Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB Sermon Series: Lent

JESUS IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross  LYRICS TO MUSIC: In the garden he waits For the very moment he has made Like the face before a fist Like the eyes before a kiss It’s beautiful anguish   In the garden he prays That this overflowing cup Could pass away And in this hour of need If there ever such a thing Out of fear I fall asleep Oh the hour has come… In the garden he bleeds But a glimpse of the coming sea And every angel up above Cannot calm the sorrow When a Father leaves his Son Oh the hour has come… MESSAGE SUMMARY:  Written in 1802, Beethoven’s only oratorio ‘Christ on the Mount of Olives’ (Christus am Ölberg) is intense, moving, and dramatic. A fifty-minute barrage of harsh yet beautiful German words pours from the mouths of a soprano, a tenor, and a bass. Unlike many of Beethoven’s contemporaries, Jesus’ humanity is fully embraced in his composition. Christ’s coming betrayal is witnessed amidst his own anguish and pain. From his very lips, the listener hears Jesus question his Father; every cry for mercy, every plea for help, every request for strength. Much like many other works of art, Beethoven’s piece sheds new light on Jesus’ suffering. It births new perspective, and makes the listener think, if even for a second, about the intricacies and complexities of the man Jesus Christ. It makes one ponder just what his betrayal meant not only to all humanity, but to Jesus himself. Understanding Christ’s humanity is something that is hard to do. Where does one begin? Few have experienced anything near the physical torture he endured, and to fully understand his spiritual and emotional anguish is impossible. For “he himself bore our sins in his body on the cross,” (1 Peter 2:24). This is certainly a weight no other could carry. He experienced the cup of wrath (Matthew 20:22), the fullness of God’s fury toward sin. But we know that he did so in a very human body. And it was in this body that the fullness of deity dwells (Colossians 2:9). We know he grew hungry (Matthew 4:2). We know he became tired (John 4:6). His emotions were no less real than any others’, as the author of Hebrews tells us, he lifted his prayers to the Father with crying and tears (Hebrews 5:7). Seeking to better understand Christ’s humanity will help us better understand how he saved humanity. Knowing the pain he endured can help us understand the frequent pain in our own lives. As Jesus prepared for his most difficult hours, the human nature of his closest friends took a prominent position. The disciples who accompany him cannot seem to stay awake in prayer. ‘For their eyes were very heavy,’ (14:40) seems to be a sorry excuse at such an important time. But oh how often we share the apostles apathy! Like the disciples, we often get distracted, lose focus, or fall asleep during prayer. We too await the magnificent return of the bridegroom (Matthew 25:1-13), but we so often cannot keep our eyes open. As Beethoven’s oratorio ends, we hear for a third time Jesus powerfully cry out “Nevertheless, not my will, but Thine.” What magnificent words to hear! That Jesus would fully embrace and admit his humanity, yet fully submit to his Father. These are the words that begin his journey to the cross, and usher in his final hours of sorrow. But they are also the words that allow for the world’s redemption. Despite the melancholy and heartbreak woven throughout Beethoven’s piece, the final moments of his work build in intensity, with flurries of rising notes and triumphant chords. It ends with the chorus singing: ‘Glorious worlds above us spire, Happy Seraphs sing your joys. Man, join in the holy choir, Hail the great Redeemer’s praise’   Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper   TODAY’S PRAYER: Thank and praise God for his perfect plan. Ask Jesus to give you a better understanding of his humanity. Ask Christ for forgiveness regarding your inability to pray, and for the strength to endure in prayer. Ask Christ to give you a sense of readiness and expectancy for his return. Praise and thank Christ for his willingness to endure the cross. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 14:32-42: “And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”; Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

GOLGOTHA EXPERIENCE FOR LENT – Jesus Walking in the Way of the Cross MESSAGE SUMMARY: INTRODUCTION by Poor Bishop Hooper -- Jesse Braswell Roberts Some years ago, I had the opportunity to spend a short time working and doing ministry in the Dominican Republic. During my stay in the southeastern city of La Romana, our group supported individuals living in the nearby ‘bateyes’, which are small, company-owned towns for sugar industry laborers. Mostly of Haitian descent, these workers often live in grossly impoverished conditions and work arduous hours cutting sugar cane by hand. I was fortunate to meet a certain middle-aged man there one warm afternoon, tired and sweat glistening, but with a strong presence and similar forearms. He told me that he worked as a mechanic, as well as holding other jobs, when he wasn’t ‘cropping cane.’ We spoke amidst rubble of engine parts and tin roof. His English was broken yet formidable, so conversation came somewhat easily. I do not remember a great deal of our particular words, and I am to this day ashamed that I cannot recount his name, but I do recall one moment vividly. Our words somehow made their way to the subject of vacation. I asked about time off in his particular situation. I assumed his response to be Sundays or certain holidays. His answer startled me. ‘One day,’ he said joyfully. ‘Good Friday.’ It was at that time mid-March, so his day of respite was ever approaching. He told me he was excited for that day. Imprudently, I inquired further. ‘What about Christmas?’ I asked. ‘No,’ he replied. ‘Why not Easter?’ Oh how I wish I could remember his next words exactly, for what he said was simple but powerful. Essentially, he told me that Good Friday was when Christ did the work so he did not have to. And for that he got the day off. And for that he was thankful. From that moment, my perspective surrounding this ‘holy day’ and the preceding Lenten season changed. Growing up, Good Friday was at best mentioned, a semi-afterthought on the backs of Palm Sunday and Easter. But here, this man’s only day of rest was the Friday before Easter. It was truly ‘good’ for him, and its goodness existed in ways I had never before pondered. It was years later that my wife Leah and I wrote the body of music that makes up ‘Golgotha.’ We were inspired to increase our community’s appreciation and understanding of what Jesus did on his ‘Sorrowful Way’ to the cross. As we explored the many traditions within the observance of Lent, we were drawn to the ‘Stations of the Cross.’ We found that it was built predominantly upon a bedrock of visual art. Christians over thousands of years had recounted Jesus’ last hours before his death in many strikingly beautiful ways. Our desire was to add to that beauty by creating new music. We wanted to write music that was rooted in scripture. Music that honored tradition, but also that invited the mind to see our Savior’s suffering in new ways. Not for our own entertainment or enjoyment, but rather so that we might offer him more thanksgiving, more praise, more adoration, and more love. I pray the words that follow would lead you into deeper relationship with our Savior Jesus Christ. Each chapter corresponds with a song of similar title, and I’d invite you to listen to the music as you read. I’d encourage you to have a bible with you, and look up the other scriptures that are cited. They’ll undoubtedly provide deeper understanding and beauty. At the end of each section, I’d invite you to pray. There are prompts provided, but they are intended to be starting places, not final destinations. With all of this, I must credit my acquaintance that day in the Caribbean sun. The Lord used his words to stir my heart. He made me think differently about the true work that Jesus did on the cross, and birthed in me an ever- growing appreciation for what Christ so magnificently accomplished there. I pray that in spending time with Jesus now, as he makes his way from the garden to the cross, the same would be true for you.           Jesse Braswell Roberts Written by Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper golgothamusic.com // poorbishophooper.com // Second edition ©2022 Jesse Braswell Roberts / Poor Bishop Hooper           TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus’ name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! (Luke 11:13). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 22:39-44: And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH’S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/   DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Is Your Life Driven by Anxiety, or Do You Walk with the Holy Spirit Who Is Working Out God’s Purpose in Your Life? MESSAGE SUMMARY: Where is God’s involvement in your life? God’s “life interventions”, in your life, can provide either a success or a setback. For example, we lose a job; or we get a job. God can turn our world upside down. It is not that we have done anything wrong; it is the Holy Spirit working out God’s purpose in your life. We need to hear what the Angels said in Mathew 1:20: “an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.’”; and we need to hear what Jesus said in Mathew 6:34: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”. If we follow the lead of the Holy Spirit in all aspects and seasons of our lives, we can see the birthing of another miracle in our lives.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Insensitivity. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Gentleness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 20:19-25; Luke 24:46-49; John 1:12; Psalms 78e:49-60. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Do You Have a Personal Relationship with God and Pray Directly to God, the Creator of the Universe, for the Needs of Others? MESSAGE SUMMARY: Will you come before God with your prayers, and for whom will you pray? We can and should come before God on behalf ourselves and others -- intercessory prayer. You and I are given the privilege of following Moses’ example when he prayed to God on behalf of his people in Psalms 102:1-2: “Hear my prayer, O LORD; let my cry come to you! Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress! Incline your ear to me; answer me speedily in the day when I call!". Because of what Jesus has done for us, we can exercise this privilege of praying directly to God, the Creator of the Universe. You come before God by talking to Him with your prayers and in a personal relationship with Him. For whom and what do you pray?   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Past Failures. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Grace. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 1:10-12; James 5:13-18; Exodus 3:1-15; Psalms 130:1-8. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Anxiety Is Never a Helpful Lens for Your Life’s Focus – “Do not be anxious about your life . . . seek his kingdom” MESSAGE SUMMARY: Put a name on the cause of your anxiety and offer it to the Lord in prayer. Anxiety is never a helpful lens though which to focus your life. As Jesus tells you, in Luke 12:22,31, that you should not be anxious and to seek first the Kingdom of God: “And he said to his disciples, ‘Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on . . . Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you . . .’”. Also, Paul tells us, in Philippians 4:14, that: “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. As a follower of Jesus today, why are you anxious? Remember, you have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus’ name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I can do what he asks of me. (Philippians 4:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 12:22-34; Matthew 6:31; Isaiah 35:4; Philippians 4:4-9; Psalms 78c:25-36. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

To Become Jesus Followers: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” MESSAGE SUMMARY: Every time you lie or cheat or lust or get stoned, you put a barrier between yourself and God because God is Holy. God’s Holiness prevents Him from communing with sinners. The author of 1 John tells us in 1 John 3:8: “Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.". God brought Jesus, who was both God and man, to live on earth. Therefore, Jesus’ blood sacrifice on the cross permitted Him to take on your sins. By His sacrifice, Jesus became the doorway for your personal relationship with God and a path for your Salvation from your sins (1 John 1:9-10): “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.".   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus’ name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Anxiety. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Peace. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 17:2-3; Philippians 3:7-10; Matthew 16:13-20; Psalms 78b:13-24. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

A Prior “Independence Day Devotional” as We Prepare to Celebrate Again - We Must Have a Great Spiritual Awakening that Returns America to God MESSAGE SUMMARY: Will you "Stand in the Gap" and participate in a Great Awakening and Spiritual Renewal in America? The signers of the Declaration of Independence, in 1776, began a revolution which led to the formation of the United States of America. This Revolution was rooted in the belief that all people are subject to the rule of God, even the King; and leaders are not above man’s law or God’s Law. Also, everyone is endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights. Many people have tried to deny that America's founders created a country which wove together the concept of self-governance with Christian principles. Now, it appears the focus, of many political and church leaders, is to eliminate ideas, laws, policies, and objects that relate America to Christianity, the Bible, or anything that smacks of God. Today, this focus away from God is succeeding. We all need to hear what our founders said regarding America’s Christian base. Not long after the enactment of the Constitution in the late 1700s, morality and church attendance declined drastically into a Spiritual Depression. The answer to this 1700s turn away from God became the nationwide implementation of "Concerts of Prayer", across all Christian denominations, which led to an American Spiritual Awakening. Today, through our actions, laws, and cultural revisions of our founding Christian principles, we have told God that we do not want Him around. Therefore, we must consider what God said He would do and what He has done in the past when people have turned away from Him, as told in Psalms 2:1-2,5,10-12: “Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against his Anointed . . . Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying . . .  Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.". In the past, as indicated in Psalms 2, God has withdrawn His presence, including His protection and divine wisdom, when people have turned away from Him. God’s presence has guided America for so many years, and the withdrawal of God’s presence in America would leave us to reap the consequences of our focus away from Him. Also, consider what the Lord said, in Ezekiel 22:30-31: "And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none. Therefore, I have poured out my indignation upon them. I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath. I have returned their way upon their heads, declares the Lord God.”. However, in Zechariah 1:3 and in many other promises throughout the Bible, God says to his people in the past and to us today: “Therefore say to them, Thus declares the LORD of hosts: ‘Return to me’, says the LORD of hosts, ‘and I will return to you’, says the LORD of hosts.". Will you "Stand in the Gap”, on behalf of your country, to participate in and lead a Great Awakening and Spiritual Renewal in America by returning America to God? We must have a Spiritual Awakening to return America to God.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, I come this day inviting you to cut those deeply entrenched chains that keep me from being faithful to my true self in Christ. In doing so, may my life be a blessing to many. In Jesus’ name, amen.      Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 44). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Presence. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ezekiel 22:30-31; Psalms 2:1-12; Zechariah 1:3; Daniel 4:31b-32; Matthew 22:19-21; Isaiah 29:8-24; Psalms 127:1-5 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

The Old Testament Law of “an eye for an eye” Was Reversed by Jesus in His “Great Commandment” in which Jesus Followers Are “to Love” MESSAGE SUMMARY: Jesus turned the prior teachings of the Law on their heels by commanding that personal relationships be based on “Love” not “Law and Justice”. Prior to the New Covenant of Jesus the Christ, the Jewish Law included "an eye for an eye . . .". Jesus, in Matthew 5:38-39, provides the cornerstone of His Greatest Commandment – “love thy neighbor as thy self” when He tells us: “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”. The Old Testament Law was for the Judges to help the courts punish people in an appropriate and consistent way. God’s Grace provided us with the means, if we so choose, for the forgiveness of our sins and for our Salvation and Eternal Life when our eternal death was the “Law and Justice” outcome of our sins.  God’s Grace sets the model for us to live a life of “Love” – “Love” God’s way.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus’ name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 5:38-42; Hebrews 9:15; 1 John 4:19; Psalms 77b:11-20. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How Does God Say I Love You, Part 4: Violation of the Covenant” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Wives and Mothers Need Respect and Support Today More Than Ever in These Days of Stress and Uncertainty MESSAGE SUMMARY: Wives and mothers need respect and support today more than ever in these days of stress and uncertainty, derivative of Covid-19 and cultural dissonance along with inconsistences in our social, educational, health, work, and our faith-based support systems. We are told, in the Wisdom of Proverbs 31:10-12, that: “An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.". Paul says, in 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17, that: “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.". After all, God ordained this special relationship for wives, husbands, and mothers as confirmed by Jesus in Matthew 19:5b: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh”.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Abba Father, I admit that I am often afraid and embarrassed to openly tell you all that is going on inside me — even though I know you know it all anyway. Teach me what boldness in prayer looks like as I draw near your throne of grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 112). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because I am in Jesus Christ, I will seek God’s perspective on my situation. For I know that in all things God  works together for good to those of us who love Him and are called according to His purpose. From Romans 8:28 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 2 Timothy 1:5; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Matthew 7:24-27; Psalms 77a:1-10. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How God Says He Loves Us: Part 3 -- The Covenant with Moses”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Through the Holy Spirit and a Personal Relationship with God, Jesus Followers Hear God’s Calls and Can Respond - “Here am I, Send Me” MESSAGE SUMMARY: Do you, like many Christians, see little, spiritually, going on in your life? As a Jesus Follower, God calls you just as He called the Prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 6:8: “And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me.’”. Therefore, as a Jesus Follower, you should be asking the question: “Am I ready for something spiritual to happen in my life; am I dressed and ready for His service?”. Are you ready to say: “Lord, here am I; send me.”? The call of the Holy Spirit to you may be diverse like: a) becoming a missionary in a third world country; b) being a Christian business leader; or c) taking a stand for Jesus that is not politically correct. Can you be as ready as Isaiah when he said to God’s call, in Isaiah 6:8: “Lord, here am I; send me.”? Are listening for God’s calls, and are ready to be sent? If not, why not?   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, in order to be with you, I need you to show me how to “create a desert” in the midst of my full, active life. Cleanse me from the pressures, illusions, and pretenses that confront me today so that my life may serve as a gift to those around me. Amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 26). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Inconsistencies. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Faithfulness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 8:12-17; Acts 2:1-4; Genesis 46:2-4; Psalms 76:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How God Says He Loves Us: Part 3 -- The Covenant with Moses”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

As a Jesus Follower” and in this “time of your life”, Have You Asked God to Walk with You? God Says, “I Am with You Always” MESSAGE SUMMARY: With your personal relationship with God, He is with you as you walk through all the times {“Seasons”} of your life, as Jesus tells us in Matthew 28:20b: “. . .I am with you always, to the end of the age.”. In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, God tells us about all the times of our lives: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.". In this “time of your life”, have you asked God to walk with you? Remember, “I am with you always”.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I can relate to the disciples who wanted to call down fire from heaven on the Samaritans and who fought over which of them was the greatest. Forgive my arrogance. Cleanse me and fill me with your power so that I might love well today for your name’s sake. Amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 138). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Inadequacy. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s Abundance. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; John 15:1-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17; Psalms 75:1-10. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How God Says He Loves Us: Part 3 -- The Covenant with Moses”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

God Does Not Care About Your Money; If Your Heart Is Pure and in the Right Place, Your Money Is in the Right Place MESSAGE SUMMARY: Sadly, too many of our hearts are filled with greed and envy; therefore, often, our treasure has become our “god”. God could care less about your money. God is concerned about your heart. To this end, God is concerned about the purity of your heart along with the placement of {His} your “treasure” in the right places. As Jesus tells you in Matthew 6:19-21: "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.". We gain further insight on the relative value of our Eternal Life vs. our earthly wealth in 1 Timothy 6:17-19: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”. If your heart is in the right place, then your money will be in the right place.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus’ name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be anxious. (Philippians 3:10). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 6:19-21; Matthew 19:16-30; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; Psalms 74b:13-23. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How God Says He Loves Us: Part 3 -- The Covenant with Moses”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Jesus Followers “Know God”, which Is “Eternal Life”, Because they Have a Personal Relationship with God MESSAGE SUMMARY: Your personal relationship with God, and knowing Him in your life, renders everything else in your life insignificant.  Knowing God and having that personal relationship with Him, through your prayer life, is summarized in John 17:3: “And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.". Jesus’ interchange with the Apostle Peter, in Matthew 16:13-18, exemplifies the importance of God’s gift to you of your access to Him on a personal one-on-one basis: “he {Jesus}asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.’”. How is your personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe, today?   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus’ name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Despair. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit’s fruit of Joy. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 17:2-3; Philippians 3:7-10; Matthew 16:13-20; Psalms 74a:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How God Says He Loves Us: Part 3 -- The Covenant with Moses”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Many “Christians” Are Unwilling to Come to the God in Penitence to Repent; They Do Not Have the “fire of God” or the Holy Spirit’s Engagement MESSAGE SUMMARY: We must maintain constant repentance with the Lord. Every relationship in our life is a day-by-day journey; therefore, our relationship with the Lord is, also, a continuous journey. In 2 Corinthians 7:10, Paul succinctly describes the difference between “grief” and “sorrow” for our sinful actions and true repentance: “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.". God can show us those things, in our lives, that He wants us to do or not do. Some of us have the “pilot light lit” because we have asked Jesus to bring the Holy Spirit into our lives; however, the “furnace isn’t engaged”. The “fire of God” is not in our lives because we are not willing to come to the Lord in penitence and to repent.   TODAY’S PRAYER: Lord, I come this day inviting you to cut those deeply entrenched chains that keep me from being faithful to my true self in Christ. In doing so, may my life be a blessing to many. In Jesus’ name, amen.      Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 44). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Fear. Rather, I will abide in the Lord’s . “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mathew 3:8-11; Romans 2:4-5; Psalms 32:5; Psalms 120:1-7. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY’S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach’s Current Sunday Sermon: “How God Says He Loves Us: Part 3 -- The Covenant with Moses”, at our Website: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB