Christmas Celebration!

"For unto us, a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."- Isaiah 9:6

Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Because of God's love for us, he sent his only son to Earth to show us how to live holy and to die for our sins so that we can have the opportunity to live forever in the presence of God.

We pray that you and your family are enjoying this celebration of Christ. May God continue to bless you and shower his favor upon you and your family.  

Continue the celebration of  Christ with us this Sunday and every Sunday at our 8:30am or 11:00am services. For more information about our church click here: www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

Even When I lose, I Win

Romans 8:28-29 states, " And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  For who he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethern."

That scripture is everything!  Verse 28  means that God has purposefully and thoughtfully predestined his children to win.  It doesn't matter what obstacle we face, we were born to win.  Verse 29 reassures us that everything that we go through, is designed to conform us to the image of Jesus Christ.  So, even when we lose or it seems like we're losing, there's a lesson to be learned.  When we embrace the lesson, our hearts become more tender towards God and we mature in Christ.  Let's look at an Old Testament example of God's people winning even though they lost.

In 1 Samuel 4, the people of Israel become engaged in war with the Philistines.  During the first battle of this war, the Philistines killed 4,000 men.  What?!  God's people were destroyed by their enemies?  Yes, that happened.  The people of Israel were angry, discouraged, and because of the loss, they got desperate.  Instead of asking God for guidance, they prematurely sent for the ark of the covenant, which was a symbol of God's Divine Presence, and engaged in another battle with the Philistines (1 Samuel 4:3-9).  This time, Israel lost 30,000 men in battle and the ark of the covenant was taken by the Philistines.

In all of their losing, they were still winning.  The losses on the battle field were necessary in order to fulfill a prophecy (1 Samuel 2:34) and even though the ark of the covenant was taken, it was ushered into the enemy's camp where it destroyed the Philistines (1 Samuel 5:1-6).  The ark of the covenant was transferred from camp to camp for seven months destroying and plaguing the enemies of Israel (1 Samuel 5: 10-12).  Finally, the Philistines gave the ark of covenant back to Israel with offerings of gold and animals among other things (I Samuel 6: 1-12).

God does the same thing for us everyday.  Sometimes we make bad decisions, sometimes the enemy is trying to distract us and sometimes life happens, but in every thing, God is always working to ensure that we mature in Him and live the life that he intended for us to live.  Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."


Memory Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus said, "You are the light of the world.  A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org

Join us for an All White Casual Attire Praise Party with Casey J!

Atlanta's own Casey J is coming to the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse to lift up Jesus in our all white causal attire praise party on July 20th at both our 8:30am and 11:00am services.  Casey J is the worship pastor at Fresh Start Church in Duluth, GA.  She's graced the stage with gospel heavyweights such as James Fortune, Yolanda Adams, Tasha Cobbs and William Murphy.   Her anointed voice sets the atmosphere for worship and ushers in the Holy Spirit for a powerful move of God.  For more information about Casey J,  visit her website at www.caseyjmusic.com.

We look forward to worshiping with you on July 20th.  We will be wearing aFor more information about our events at the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse, please visit www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

Listen to Casey J with her anointed new single, "Fill Me Up.":  http://youtu.be/gh_eXL4s8Kg.

It's Our Home Coming!

Join us and bring a friend, Sunday, August 3, 2014 for a dynamic time in the Lord as we celebrate 41 years of serving God and bringing the lost to Christ.  Evangelist Sandra Riley will be our guest minister.  Evangelist Riley is an ordained minister and an anointed ambassador for the Kingdom of God.  She spreads the gospel both nationally and internationally through her organization, Just for U Ministries.  For more information about Evangelist Riley, visit her website at www.sandrariley.com.

This is just a sample of what you'll receive when you hear her live at Church of Atlanta Lighthouse on August 3rd.  Listen and be encouraged: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikAsWVl9c-M   

We, at the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse feel blessed to have her participate in our Home Coming services and we would love to see you, your friends, and family.  For more information about our Home Coming services, please visit our website at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org. 



                

Join Us on Pentecost Sunday

Pentecost Sunday is the seventh Sunday after Easter that acknowledges and celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples.  Jesus promised that when he decended into heaven that he would send us a comforter, a helper, the Spirity of truth, the Holy Spirit, to lead, guide and keep us connected to our Heavenly Father (John 14:15-17).   His promise was fulfilled in Acts 2:1-4,"When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.  And suddenly there came from heavven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.  And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them.  And  they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."

On Sunday, June 8th, we will be celebrating Pentecost with guest speaker Apostle Gregory Kelley, Pastor of Restoration of Life through Jesus Christ Ministries, Inc.  We invite you to come learn more about Pentecost Sunday and celebrate Jesus Christ with us.

For more information, please visit our website at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

7 Characteristics of a Good Solider

 The 7 Characteristics of a Good Soldier

1. Intergrity- The ability to remain faithful and ethical to complete the mission.
2. Dicipline-  The ability to stay focused and remain consistent despite your emotions.
3. Endurance- Relentless determination to finish the mission.
4. Intelligence- The ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills appropriately to any situation.
5. Good Judgement-  The ability to be ethical and fair when deciding on a course of action.
6. Courage- The ability to move forward in difficult situations.
7. Tact - The ability to deal appropriately with others in challenging situations.

Today we acknowledge and celebrate the integrity, dicipline, endurance, intelligence, good judgement, courage and tact of all of our men and women in the military, both past and present.  We're truly thankful to God for blessing them with these characteristics to protect us and they are always in our prayers. Have a safe and blessed Memorial Day.

Please visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

Join Us As We Celebrate Our Mothers

Mothers - what would we do without them?

Each year Mother’s Day is celebrated around the world; a day our thoughts are focused on our mums.  As far back as 1600, Mothering Sunday has been celebrated. Originally it was a day when children (many of them working already) were given a day off to visit not only their mother, but their ‘mother church’, or the church their family attended.  Mother’s Day is still an opportunity for children, young and not so young, to show their mum some appreciation for the contribution they make to their life and let her know she’s special.

Since the start of the human race it has been a mother’s role to not only give birth to children, but constantly care for them and put them first.  The very first woman Eve was given her name because it means ‘mother of all living’.  The role of parents is a full time emotional roller coaster that never seems to quite stop no matter what age your children are!

Throughout the centuries many mothers have had an extraordinary ‘behind the scenes’ influence on their children and the lives they go on to lead.  A particularly outstanding example of great motherhood is Mary the mother of Jesus.  She nurtured Jesus from a baby to adulthood, shaping his knowledge, understanding and attitude for a life of service that would follow.  Although remaining in the background, Mary was clearly a key figure in his life.

Let’s not just remember our own moms  this Mother’s Day, let’s consider the wider picture and be thankful for the mothers down the ages who have given so much to so many.  If you don’t usually attend a church, why not give it a try this Mothering Sunday and celebrate Mother’s Day in the way it was originally intended?  Together, as a wider family, at church.  Hope you can make it.  

Please join us at  this Sunday Church of Atlanta Lighthouse,  1380 Boulevard SE Atlanta  Ga 30315

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org

Live Life More Abundantly

Everybody wants to live an abundant life.  As a matter of fact, that's one of the reasons why Jesus sacrificed his life.  In John 10:10, Jesus said, " The thief cometh not but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."  But how do we live life abundantly?  Well, one of the main keys to having  an abundant life is understanding how to live the way God intended.    Proverbs 4:7 states, " Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."  On Wednesday night our ministers are prepared to impart you with wisdom and understanding to help you live better and to help you experience the life that God intended for you.

Join us this Wednesday, April 30th at 7pm for our Small Group Life Lessons.  Learn practical ways to improve your life and live abundantly.

Choose from 4 small groups:

Minister Jonathan White will teach in the sanctuary on the importance and methods of training children to love, respect, honor, reverence, serve and fear God.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." -Proverbs 22:6

Minister Daunte Gibbs will teach in the chapel on effective yet simple study habits and tools to understand and research the Word of God.

"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me:  seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children." - Hosea 4:6

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  -2 Timothy 2:15

Minister Ervin Lawrence will teach in the downstairs kitchen are on how to overcome the storms of life.

"Beloved think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."  1 Peter 4:12, 13

Minister Patricia Crawford and Lady Candee McKibbins will continue teaching new converts in the Large Sunday School room away from the Sanctuary.  They will teach understanding the salvation experience, maintaining your salvation, and the role of the Holy Spirit.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

Scandal....

The bible is filled with amazing life lessons that come from the lives of real people who went through some of the same things that we experience today (Ecclesiastes 1:9).  In addition to everyday challenges, there were also some scandalous occurrences that happened throughout the bible such as the situation of adultery and murder with David, Bathsheba, and Uriah (2 Samuel 11),  the issue with Ananias and Sapphira withholding money from the church (Acts 5:1-11), and the time when Solomon had to decide who the real mother of the live baby was (1 Kings 3:16).  Even though all of those examples were major scandals, perhaps, the biggest and most referenced scandal in history happened when Judas, one of the twelve disciples, betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

The day before Jesus was taken to be sacrificed, he celebrated the Passover and his last supper with his disciples.  While they ate, Jesus brought up the fact that one of them would betray him.  The bible states that the disciples were upset and they asked, "Is it me?"  Jesus didn't respond to the other disciples ;however, when Judas asked the same thing, Jesus said, "Thou hast said."  Even though Jesus was in the middle of the biggest scandals in history, he continued forward in love and temperance and stayed focused on his mission all the way to the cross.  Jesus has given us the best example of how to live through challenges and even through scandals.  His sacrifice is the reason why we can rejoice during good times and hardships.  His love for us is the reason why we have an opportunity to receive eternal life.

We would like to invite you, your family, and friends to the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse this Friday at 7pm for our Good Friday service and this Sunday for  our Easter Resurrection services at 8:30am and 11am to celebrate our Great Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

Calling All the Youth!

Join us on Sunday, May 18th at 8:30am and 11:00am for our Youth Day Celebration!  We're excited to have our guest speaker,14 year old Licensed Minister Daja Jennings https://socialcam.com/v/QbUOuUZu.  

Bring your friends, family and classmates to rejoice in the Lord with us.   For more information, visit our website at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Learn How to Let God's Power Work!

Have you ever had questions about how God works or have you ever wondered how God can use you to advance his Kingdom?   Join us Wednesday, April 23rd at the Christian Family Worship Center, with Pastor McKibbins as we learn  how to let God's power work in our lives.  For more information, please visit our website at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.  We believe that God wants to accomplish great things through you and we look forward to seeing you there!

Come Celebrate Jesus With Us

Easter Sunday is almost here and we are excited to invite you, your friends, and family to celebrate the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ with us.  Also, if you or someone you know, are not able to make it to church, but have internet access, we will be streaming our Easter Resurrection services and our usual Sunday services on our website.  For more information visit us at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.  We look forward to seeing you!

Sermon Notes: God is Accelerating Your Destiny

This past Sunday, Pastor McKibbins spoke prophetically about how God is accelerating his people in this season.  However, we, as children of God have to be in a place of accepting the things that God has for our lives.  That means that we have to give God a complete, "Yes!" to his will and his plan.  Pastor McKibbins gave us 4 great points to help us understand how to move forward in the things of God.

4 Things to Accelerate Your Life Now

1. Get rid of Distractions.

    A distraction is anything that prevents you from giving full attention to your goal or focus.

    1 Corinthians 7:35 says, " I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion tot the Lord."  When we focus on God and his purpose for our lives, he will give us the desires of our heart.   Psalms  37:4-5  says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.  Commit your way to the Lord; trust him and he will act."

2.  Get rid of Diversions.

     A diversion is someone or something that works to knock you off course.

     James 4:17 says, "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it , for him it is sin."  We always have to pray and ask God for wisdom and discernment concerning the people and things that are in our lives.  Some people and things may appear to be good for us, but in the end those people and those things might destroy us.  Ex: Delia appeared to be good and helpful to Samson, but she was the one who betrayed him and caused his life to be cut short.

     

3.  Get rid of Deviations.

     A deviation is an action that alters God's original intent. 

      Joshua 1:7 says,"Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you.  Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go."  

4.   Get rid of Devices.

      A device is an addiction(of any type) or something that has a hold over you.

      Romans 1:28 says, "And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done."  In these times, there are so many subtle devices or addictions that are available that range from gossip to television to social media.  However, by spending more time with God, we can connected to him and build up our resistance to those things that are contrary to God's will. Jesus said, in Luke 10:19, "Behold, I have given you authority to tread on the serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you."  

For more sermons and updates, visit our website: www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

The Season of Lent

Lent Season is a 40 day period of reflecting on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  During this time, Christians fast, repent, and strengthen in spiritual discipline.  This year,the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse will be participating in a church fast that includes a 21 Day Financial fast, followed by a Daniel Fast.

 As a guide for our financial fast, we're using, "The 21 Day Financial Fast," by Michelle Singletary.  This is a spiritually scriptured based book that gives step by step instructions on how to become debt free through budgeting, saving and investing.  It will challenge the way that you think and feel about managing money.  If you truly want to become a lender instead of a borrower, join us on this fast and start living the life that Jesus intended for you; a life free from every type of bondage.

"The 21 Day Financial Fast," is available here: http://www.amazon.com/The-21-Day-Financial-Fast-Freedom/dp/0310338336/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394728873&sr=8-1&keywords=The+21+Day+Financial+Fast.

For more information about this fast, visit our website: www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

How Do You Glorify God?

The definition of worship means to show reverence and adoration to God.  It's a sacred and wonderful experience in which we glorify God for his power, faithfulness, love and forgiveness.  However, for some, worship has become more of a chore than a joyful experience.  For others, who are new to the faith, it might be confusing at times.  Whether you're new to the faith, a seasoned Christian or a Worship Leader who wants to enhance your church's worship experience, join us Sunday, March 23 @ 8:30am and 11:00am at Church of Atlanta Lighthouse for a fresh revelation of how to experience the power of God through worship. Our guest speaker is Evangelist Melodie Lovely.  Our guest panelists are Pastor Daniel Smart, Evangelist Melodie Lovely, and Pastor John Paul McGee.  We look forward to worshiping with you!

Please visit our website @www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.

It's Real. It Works. It's Always Available. It's Prayer.

The definition of prayer is: a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God.  God's will for our lives is to give us hope (Jeremiah 29:11), to prosper us ( 3 John 1:2), and to provide a way for us to seek forgiveness and healing from him ( 2 Chronicles 7:14).  All of those promises are available to us through prayer.  

Prayer has a restoring power within it that renews the spirit and refreshes the soul.  We, at the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse invite you to join us in prayer and fellowship with the Christian Family Worship Center on March 15, 2014 from 10:00am-12:00pm.  Our very own, Pastor Timothy McKibbins will be the guest speaker.  We want to pray for you, your family and our community.

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org

Join us for an Observation of Black History Month

A Brief History on Black History Month

Black History Month started as Black History Week in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson and his organization, the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History.  The 2nd week in February was chosen to honor the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.   

Woodson felt that it was necessary for the self worth and growth of Black people in America to realize that their history didn't start with slavery. Woodson also wanted to highlight the contributions of Black people to America and the world.  

According to Woodson, "Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history."  In 1976, Black History Week grew into Black History Month and was officially recognized by President Ford.


We, at the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse, would like for you, your family, and friends to join us in this great celebration of Black History.  We look forward to seeing you.

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org.  God Bless You!

A Character Building Situation

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations; Knowing this that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.  

-James 1:2-4

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace.  In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."

-John 16:33

A Character Building Situation

Have you ever been in a situation that was just the worst?  Or have you ever been in between a rock and a hard place? Me too. Those experiences are what I like to call Character Building Situations.  I, along with several other Georgia residents, had my character tested during the recent inclement weather that we experienced last week.  As I traveled on the roads trying desperately to reach my children, dodged icy spots and other drivers that slid around the slick streets, I began to get frustrated and discouraged.  My circumstances looked bleak and I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to pick up my kids from school that day.  I felt like I was trapped in a nightmare that wouldn't end.  

However, anytime that I'm confronted with tough situations, the scriptures above tend to come to my mind.   I've learned that in the mist of frustrating times or character building situations, there is always a lesson to be learned and there is always something to be grateful for.  With every character building situation, I realize more and more what James meant when he wrote the previous scripture.  

5 Reasons Why We Count Our Trials as Joy

1.  God won't let us be tempted beyond what we are capable of handling (1 Corinthians 10:13).

2.  God uses these situations to help us recognize the areas in our lives that need improvement (Ephesians 2:10 and Philippians 1:6).

3.  These situations are opportunities for us to grow in integrity (Romans 5:3-4). 

4.  Our trials and temptations will only be for a season (Ecclesiastes 3:1-7).

5.  Jesus overcame the world which makes us Over-Comers as believers of Christ (1 John 4:4).

After considering those scriptures I began to calm down.  I prayed for peace, for the other drivers, and the kids at school waiting to go home.  Even though it took almost 4 hours to get home on one of the scariest drives I've ever experienced, we made it home safely.  My faith in God grew, my patience increased and I was able to experience God's peace during a trying time.  Always remember to seek God in your character building situations.  God bless you!

Please visit us online at churchofatlantalighthouse.org.  

  

Remember, Celebrate, Rejoice, Act

Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  He was a minister, husband, father, dreamer, a nonviolent leader and activist for Civil Rights and equality in America and around the world. 

Dr. King made the biblical principles of love the foundation of the Civil Rights Movement.  He understood and applied the importance of scriptures like, 1 Peter 4:8, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” and Matthew 5:39, “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.”

When he was arrested, he practiced love.

When attempts were made on his life, he practiced love.

When his house was bombed, he practiced love.

When he was attacked and wrongfully accused, he still practiced love.

 Let's continue to follow in the footsteps of this remarkable man, today and everyday by practicing love.

 

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org

Ride or Die Reality Check

"Ride or Die," is an Urban phrase used to describe a strong commitment to a person, cause or an objective.  So, if you "Ride or Die," for someone or something, it means that you wholeheartedly stand by that person or thing no matter the cost.

A lot of times we ride or die for people and things that don't satisfy the voids in our lives.  It can be tough to deal with the reality of giving our all to someone or something without receiving the same commitment in return.  If you've ever felt this way, consider changing who or what you "Ride or Die" for.  Let's take a quick look at two people who were truly ride or die.

Paul...that "Ride or Die" Dude

Paul was originally named Saul.  As Saul, he had a strong commitment to destroying the Saints of God (Acts 9).  In his mind, he felt like that was his purpose.  He was empty and unfulfilled.  No matter how many Christians he put in jail or had murdered, it was never enough.  One day God spoke to Saul, humbled him, changed his heart, gave him a new name and a new purpose.  From that time forward, Paul became fully committed to the ministry of Jesus Christ.  In Philippians 1:21, Paul wrote, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain."  That's the kind of Ride or Die situation that doesn't disappoint.  

Ruth...the Original "Ride or Die" Chick

The story of Ruth is so Ride or Die that an entire book of the bible is named after her.  Ruth was Naomi's daughter-in-law.   Ruth, her sister-in-law, Orpah and Naomi were widows.  When Ruth and Orpah's husbands died, Naomi prayed over them and told them to go back to their own people and serve their own gods (idols).  Orpah went back, but Ruth stayed with Naomi.  Ruth 1:16-17 states, "But Ruth said,'Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you.  For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge.  Your people shall be my people and your God my God.  Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried.  May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you."  Eventually, Ruth's faithfulness lead her to Boaz, her new husband.

In both of these examples, Paul and Ruth had to make a decision to change their "Ride or Die" mentality.  When Paul turned away from his own righteousness, he was able to receive the righteousness of Jesus Christ and minister the good news of salvation.  When Ruth made the decision to deny her heritage, her traditions and her gods to follow Naomi and the one true God, she was able to receive the favor of God and his goodness.

At Church of Atlanta Lighthouse, Pastor Tim challenged us to be the type of people who will Ride or Die for the ministry of Jesus Christ, especially right now in this new year.  We have wholeheartedly accepted the challenge and we invite you to do the same.  Live a life worth living.  Ride or Die for Jesus Christ.

Visit us online at www.churchofatlantalighthouse.org