"A Journey with Voices of Hope and Healing"

"God's grace is sufficient." That's the recurring thought that has hung in my head since last evening's spectacular performance at Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church in Harlem where the collaboration of Opera Noire of New York and Stroke of Hope premiered. It wasn't just a 'performance' -- it was an experience! All present left with a bright burning fire that had been passed from torch to torch as the presentation progressed.

The founders, Hazella & Jeff LaVar, took us on a scripted journey of their personal experiences over the last decade with narration voiced by Donna Lyde (NY Network Board Member) and a brilliant cast of singers who created richly expressed images of emotional colors with the beauty of their voices and the passion of their souls. Just when you thought you'd been taken to the highest of heights, another voice would carry you to yet a higher level of spiritual consciousness.

By the end of the show there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Even the performers themselves were caught up in the wave of emotion as they began the final ensemble number. One soloist was so moved that he was unable to finish his line. But the final voice of support rang out in the form of his colleague who finished the line while embracing his overcome brother. What an incredibly appropriate ending to the fantastic journey that only God could lead us through! Nothin' but the Lord...nothin' but the Lord.

This is the beginning of a world-class production that God has created, orchestrated and illuminated. Education through entertainment...what an awesome match! Stay tuned to Upcoming Events. This is something really special that will evolve into a piece you simply CANNOT miss!!! What a beautiful blend of GOOD MUSIC and GOOD HEALTH. "Blest be the tie that binds." -soh nyc

Clarity

kirkwhalum.com

Somehow or another time froze for a moment as I looked at the label on the bar of soap in my hotel bathroom. (I know, I need to get a job)! The word SOAP was nowhere to be found on the packaging. Instead was written, "Clarifying Bar." My mind raced to wonder, "What is the connection between clarity and cleansing."

I believe that the Lord was saying that the clarity we seek, the clarity we need in order to know what to do and when to do it... is somehow tied to the cleansing work of the Spirit. 1John 1:9 says; "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness."

As you meditate on that scripture, let those two words, "cleanse" and "all," sink deep into your spirit. Allow God to first cleanse your conscience (He has already cleansed away the sins themselves) and then to give you the clarity that you need for the next leg of the journey. As he washes away the guilt, he will also point you in the right direction.

Kirk