Park and Pray Blogs

This is the day that the Lord has made we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

 

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My nephew used his Wii U game (Mii Maker) to remake my image into a game character. He carefully and thoughtfully selected her hairdo, facial expression, clothing, colors, posture and more.  I was amazed by his depiction of me. So, what if he uses my image in his game and wins! Win or lose, I will rejoice and be glad for reasons greater than the game.

Let us Park and Pray at 1:11pm
Lord, thank you for the gift of time, family and growing relationships. Thank you for renewing us day by day. We are your handiwork and a work in progress. Lord, you promised to bless us each day. You promised to always be present with us. You promised to love us unconditionally. What more can we ask of you, for your grace is sufficient. Help us to see your handiwork and rejoice in what you have done, what you are doing, and what you will do in our lives. ICN, Amen

Thanksgiving Prayers

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

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A Prayer For Thanksgiving

Almighty God, we offer our thanks and praise for all who are gathered around the table. Spirit God, make your presence known to us as we seek your blessings for the food we are about to eat from your bounty. Fill us with the gifts of your Grace, Peace, Light, and Love. Help us to share these gifts with our neighbors. In our Savior’s name, we pray. Amen. 

A Grateful Heart

Almighty God, in this season of Thanksgiving, we give thanks with a grateful heart. You fill us with your Word, clothe us with your Grace and anoint us with your Righteousness. Love Supreme, we sing praises and we give thanks with a grateful heart for your enduring love. In your Holy name, we pray. Amen. 

Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

Preaching & Praying in Germany

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

October 25, 2017, eleven Beneficent Church members and friends traveled to Offenbach Germany to visit our “Sister Church” and celebrate the 500th year of the Protestant Reformation. Pastors Michelle Madsen-Bibeau, Joachim, Christiane and I preached a combined sermon from Revelations 7:9-12 at the Evangelische Stadtkirche Church in Offenbach, Germany before our combined congregations. I preached from the pulpit.

Let us pray, God we come before your presence with praise and thanksgiving. We come from diverse cultures and languages but our faith in you O God is not diverse. We thank you for picking us up and carrying us when we fall down. Thank you for holding and blessing us with a renewed spirit when we feel down. Thank you for sharing your wisdom when we don’t know what to do. Redeeming God help us hold onto the palm branches that remind us of Jesus Christ, his sacrifice, and his promises. Bless us with pure robes, clean hearts, and the desire to serve you. May we live to love generously, honor the peace you give us and bear witness to the power of the living water that Jesus Christ offers us. To God be the glory forever and ever! In Jesus Name we pray. Amen

A Virtual Prayer Memorial to Honor Sargent La David Johnson

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

A butterfly is attracted to beauty. It clings to sweetness and embraces the aroma of each fresh flower. It does not destroy. It accents and honors life and creation.

We can honor Sargent La David Johnson’s life and preserve his legacy. Let us put away hurtful words. Sacrifice a few minutes today. Pause, “Park and Pray at 1:11 pm” in memory of Sgt Johnson. Say sweet words of comfort for his loved ones. Let us pray:

Loving God, thank you for the life and spirit of Sargent La David Johnson who sacrificed his life in service to our country. God in your grace and mercy comfort those who grieve. Silent the angry hearts who ignite painful gestures and blow harmful words like a hurricane of dissension. Quench the fires that burn through the fabric of truth and wholeness. Rescue us from fire and smoke that clouds our vision and attempts to turn lovers into haters. Shower our nation with your peace. Let your Light shine on the good and the wicked so together we might overcome that which weighs us down. Lift us up so we might truly be “one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all.” May we remember Sargent Johnson always with loving admiration. Bless us Almighty God to be great lovers of You and one another. In the powerful name of Christ. Amen

God’s Amazing Grace! Thank You All!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Isaiah 60:1

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Thankful for All who participated in the Service of Installation as Associate Pastor and Teacher Beneficent Congregational Church 

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Participants: Enno Fritsch, Organist; Rev. Michelle Madsen-Bibeau, Interim Minister, BCC; Earnest Cox Minister of Music, BCC; Delbert L. Collins, Soloist;
Sharon Mazyck, Soloist; Lon Plynton Guitar, Sheila Austin, Flute; CJ Washington, Drums; Ellie Alves, Dominic  Lemus; Lukas Enno; Michael Alves; Pastor Chontell N. Washington, Pastoral Associate, BCC; Diane Chain Cochran, Reader; Christeen Hum Estrada, Director of Children’s Ministries, BCC; April Brown, Reader; Walter Hope, Reader; Valerie Tutson, Story Teller; Rev. Dr. Kathy Henry, Reader; Rev. Dr. Damaris Whittaker, Keynote Preacher; Sylvia Delaney, Reader; Carlos Vega, Soloist;
Kevin Nelson, Chair Deacon, Reader; Rev. Barbara Libby, Interim Conference Minister, RI Conference, United Church of Christ (RICUCC); Frances Munro, President RICUCC Board; Rev. Gene Dyszlewski, RICUCC; Rev. Gary Bagley, RICUCC Committee on Ministry; Rev. Brendan Curran, Prayer of Installation.

Planning Committee Jay Frails (Chair), Jane Eastman, Paulette Littlejohn and family, Faith Washington and family, Rev. Michelle Madsen-Bibeau, Earnest Cox, Community Ministry Team – Kenny Alston, Sylvia Delaney, Jay Frails, Cindy Gorriaran, Gordon Hayes, Shara Plynton Ushers: Chris Alves, Irene Hope, Luke Krawszac, Niya Plynton, Shara Plynton

Cover Artwork Barbara Whatmough;

John Pagliarini Building and Grounds Supervisor; Michele Adamo, Office & Communications Manager; Juan

Special Thanks to Governor Raimondo for her letter and citation; Rev. Don Anderson, Executive Director Rhode Island Conference of Churches; Rev. Maren Tirabassi’s tribute.

Glory to God! Thanks to all present and in spirit for this wonderful celebration!

“On the Occasion of Your Installation by Rev. Maren Tirabassi

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

While we are limping away

and earthquakes and terrible fires,

and from great failures in compassion,

not to speak of the small

and so personal pain in lives

of all the folks in all our churches,

we do these simple things

that all the world calls crazy —

we put water on children,

and we install a woman of God.

We need your courage, Cleo

someone to send a dove

for an olive branch of peace,

someone to mix in a little leaven

and pulling over to pray at 1:11,

someone to carry spices to every place

where sad people need to hear

about the resurrection,

someone to speak Pentecost words

that does not know “churchy” language

but recognizes the truth in a life

that knows both mess and message,

the rim of the dark horizon

and the dawn of hope.

*************************************************************

God’s grace be with you this autumn day of celebration and every day of your ministry.

– Maren C. Tirabassi, October 8, 2017

PARK AND PRAY AT 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“At least 50 people were killed and more than 200 injured in a shooting on the Las Vegas Strip during a country music festival Sunday night. It is the deadliest mass shooting in US history.” CNN News

Awesome God we need you every hour, every minute and every second. Cover us with your love. Bless us with your grace. Merciful God, stop the bloodshed and assaults against life and livelihood. We pray for healing in our Savior’s name. Amen

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Holy mystery we name God
and in whom we find rest and shelter,
may your word bring healing
to the broken and bruised;
comfort to the grieving;
and assurance to the fearful.
By your spirit of grace
be present to those
whose troubles are known only to you
and those whom we name
on our lips and in our silence…
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
(Author Unknown)

Park and Pray at 1:11 pm for Houston!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Park and Pray at 1:11 pm for Houston

Lord, we park and pray at 1:11 pm and always for our brothers and sisters in the midst of the storm in Texas. Stop the storm, relieve the floods, part the waters and rescue all the people. Dry the land and rapidly recover the losses. May peaceful clouds rest over Houston and surrounding areas. In Christ name, we pray. Amen.

God stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. Psalms 107:29

A Prayer for Ministers who Traveled to D.C.

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. Psalms 50:15

Dear God, just as Jesus sent his disciples into a worn, torn and weary world, we call upon you to bless the ministers who gather at our nation’s capital. Bless their feet as they stand for justice. Bless their hands as they rest their paintbrushes against a new canvas. Guide each stroke with your words of wisdom. Bless their hearts to bear the burden of time. Help all to see the silver lining of righteousness flowing throughout the portrait. Merciful God, bless their minds to imagine your promise of love divine, a blazing gold frame. As they step away from their canvas bless them with peace, knowing that you’re a God that delivers and fulfills all your promises. God, we thank you for answering our call. In Jesus Christ’s name, we pray.  Amen

Two Are Better Than One

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

 Heaven & Earth Declare the Glory of God

Prayer Partner &  Artist: Barbara Whatmough

Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up. Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NASB)

Reflection:

I can’t imagine my life without prayer. I would feel spiritually naked. Appearing naked in public is not on my bucket list of things to do. Prayer offers an invisible layer of protection. It is an anchor and a parachute especially during unexpected times in my life. Imagine feeling like a flat tire or a deflated balloon. Prayer lifts, fills, strengthens and relieves burdens that weigh us down. Praying is a way to seek divine help, give thanks and celebrate God’s goodness. 

Jesus often prayed, in solitude and with others. Having a prayer partner may strengthen one’s prayer time and relationship with God. Imagine driving driving a car. One foot controls the pedal, the other foot controls the brake while God’s hands rest on the stirring wheel. It’s like a cord of  three strands that is not broken.

Let us pray: God, we thank you for the opportunity to call on you anytime and any place. You hear our prayers and answer us. Thank you for being with us and keeping us in your loving care. Your wisdom and guidance is a shield of protection. You bless us with your constant presence. You prepare us as your servants. You mend our brokenness and repair the tangled relationships in our lives. You soothe our pain and give us peace. You make us unmoveable, steadfast, faithful and faith filled. You ask us to love you, love one another, pray and live as your servant children. Loving God, thank you for calling us to partner with you like one of three strands bound together as a cord. Help us to answer your call daily and rejoice. The heavens declare the glory of God! In Your Holy Name. Amen.

Biologist affirms Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

matsumoto-700

“Everyday prayer is a cleansing and healing spiritual experience”  Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto
http://www.ric.edu/biology/Pages/newsMatsumoto.aspx 

Several months ago, Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto, a renowned RI College Professor of Biology, sent the following Blog for Park and Pray affirming it as an everyday prayer that “is a cleansing and healing spiritual practice.”  He retired, June 2017 after 34 years of service. Dr. Matsumoto is a remarkable liver transplant recipient, whose method of transplant contributed to the advancement of science. Matsumoto joined a clinical trial at Massachusetts General Hospital, and he became one of three patients to participate in an experimental method of organ transport.  Lloyd and his wife Terry are members of Beneficent Congregational Church United Church of Christ. IMG_1361Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto appreciates the power of prayer through his own personal experiences and relationship with God. His high risk surgeries and significant medical and surgical challenges didn’t change his commitment to pray daily. Lloyd believes God’s grace and his faith in the Divine saved his life. Prayer is a staple in his life.

Scientific Evidence Suggests Prayers Positive Effect

In 1988, Cardiologist Randolph Byrd conducted a landmark study at San Francisco General Hospital on the positive therapeutic effects of intercessory prayer on cardiac care patients.  The control group or patients who did not receive intercessory prayer required ventilator assistance, antibiotics, and diuretics more frequently than patients in the Intercessory Prayer group. This study and other data suggest that a prayer mediator or intercessory prayer to the Judeo-Christian God has a beneficial therapeutic effect in patients admitted to a CCU. This study laid the ground work for other related studies.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3393937

Try the A-C-T-S Prayer Method 

Adoration Loving God you're amazing!
Confession Merciful God I confess my sins and ask forgiveness.
Thanks Lord I come before you with praise and thanksgiving 
Supplication Almighty God help, save, heal and bless me.
I ask in the powerful name of my Savior, the Christ. Amen.

Prayer Chants (spoken repeatedly):

The Jesus Prayer – “Jesus Christ, Son of God have mercy on me.”

A Prayer for Mercy & Thanks – “Lord have mercy.” and “God, we thank you.”

Fear Not, Prayer is Powerful

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

expressions_shared.jpgPrayer is powerful. It’s a treasured investment. It’s free, available to everyone and useful. You can freely give it to anyone and freely receive it without conditions. The rewards are greater than we can imagine. When we park and pray at 1:11 pm, we set aside a time and place to intentionally enter into God’s presence.  We knock on God’s door with wonder and expectation. God knows our name, understands our desires, hears our prayers, and fulfills our needs according to God’s will and purposes. We set ourselves up for heartache when we schedule God’s response to our prayer. Our internal alarm clock rings and we expect God to disregard divine time and immediately obey our timed commands. Anxious and discouraged, we let go of our prayers and praying. We experiment with fear and other ways to fill the void.

It’s 1:11 pm, we pause, rest, stop, PARK and PRAY at 1:11 pm.

We pray, “Lord have mercy!” Awesome God, forgive us for worrying about matters that seem to make us more anxious. Thank you for reminding us that “truly you know the plans you have for us, to prosper and to give us a future and a hope.”(Jeremiah 29:11) God, make your presence known to us all. You know what we need for today and tomorrow. Comfort all who are afflicted. Heal all who are wounded and brokenhearted. Satisfy our hunger and thirst for your grace, righteousness, goodness, and mercy.  Bring relief to all who are without shelter and loving support. “Give us this day, our daily bread.” We pray in Thy Holy Name. Amen.

 

Prayer is Powerful

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Prayer is powerful. It’s a treasured investment. It’s free, available to everyone and useful. You can freely give it to anyone and freely receive it without conditions. The rewards are greater than we can imagine. When we park and pray at 1:11 pm, we set aside a time and place to intentionally enter into God’s presence.  We knock on God’s door with wonder and expectation. God knows our name, understands our desires, hears our prayers, and fulfills our needs according to God’s will and promises. We set ourselves up for heartache when we schedule God’s response to our prayer. Our internal alarm clock rings and we expect God to disregard divine time and immediately obey our timed commands. Anxious and discouraged, we let go of our prayers and praying. We experiment with other ways to fill the void. Finally, we lament, “Lord have mercy!”  It’s 1:11 pm, let’s pause, rest, stop, PARK and PRAY at 1:11 pm:

Awesome God, forgive us for worrying about matters that seem to make us more anxious. Thank you for reminding us that “truly you know the plans you have for us, to prosper and to give us a future and a hope.”(Jeremiah 29:11) God, you know what we need for today and tomorrow. Make your presence known to us all. Comfort all who are afflicted. Heal all who are wounded and brokenhearted., Satisfy our hunger and thirst for your grace, righteousness, goodness, and mercy.  Bring relief to all who are without shelter and loving support.
We pray in Thy Holy Name. Amen.

Words Like Leaves On a Tree

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

 

Our words are like leaves on a Tree. Some leaves need to cling to the branches until they mature. Some leaves need to hold onto to their stem until their pain is fermented. Some leaves like words should not fall from the tree until it is certain it can stand on its own word. Once it is released it can never return back to the tree, its source. It gathers on the ground as a community of words, phrases, messages and metaphors as a blanket of thoughts. It gathers as a heap of expressions blown around. Then, carried away to distant places where it finally settles as dust. It becomes a memory and a seed that offers a new thought, a grand idea and words that cling to us like leaves on a Tree.

Park and Pray at 1:11 pm
Creator God bless the life that is mine to hold and beg for your Grace and Mercy. I pray that I may not wander too far from the tree. “May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to You, O GOD, my Source, my Strength,” my Love, and my Heart Desire. (Psalms 19:14) In Your Name I pray.

Image (http://bible.com)

The R.I Promise

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

I believe the R.I. Promise opens the doors to a better future for Rhode Islanders. 
Please visit http://www.RIpromise.com
Please join me in a virtual prayer for divine intervention. “Park and Pray at 1:11 pm” Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing at 1:11 pm please stop, park and pray:

Holy One, we give thanks to you for your infinite power and unconditional love. Bless us with wisdom to overcome our limitations and nurture our gifts. Bless the RI Promise, as a way that many may achieve a fulfilling life. Bless us with these and other seeds to grow our society. Bless our present and future generations with a future that holds your promises for us. Amen.

To learn more about the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship proposal, please visit http://www.RIpromise.com

Reverent Submission

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

img_1413-1Friends, I am convinced that when we park and pray at 1:11 pm we engage in reverent submission. When we practice reverent submission we release our hands and our hold on our lives. We surrender our will and allow space for God’s will to manifest in our lives.

When we say the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” What is God’s will for us and for our situations? We often believe our will is not satisfied when God’s will, different from our will, prevails.

Friends, trust God to hear your fervent prayers and petitions. Depend on God to do whatever is best in your life. Pray, asking in Christ’s name. Just as Jesus’ prayers were heard you will be heard because of your reverent submission.

Prayer

Dear God, we long to do your will. Thank you for teaching us how to pray through lessons on Jesus’ prayer life. Help us to release our will, which holds us back from discerning your will. May the righteous desires of our hearts be fulfilled. In Christ name, we pray. Amen.

Biologist affirms Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

matsumoto-700

“Everyday prayer is a cleansing and healing spiritual experience” Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto
http://www.ric.edu/biology/Pages/newsMatsumoto.aspx

Several months ago, Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto, a renowned RI College Professor of Biology, sent the following Blog for Park and Pray affirming it as an everyday prayer that “is a cleansing and healing spiritual practice.”  He retired, June 2017 after 34 years of service. Dr. Matsumoto is a remarkable liver transplant recipient, whose method of transplant contributed to the advancement of science. Matsumoto joined a clinical trial at Massachusetts General Hospital, and he became one of three patients to participate in an experimental method of organ transport.  Lloyd and his wife Terry are members of Beneficent Congregational Church United Church of Christ. IMG_1361Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto appreciates the power of prayer through his own personal experiences and relationship with God. His high risk surgeries and significant medical and surgical challenges didn’t change his commitment to pray daily. Lloyd believes God’s grace and his faith in the Divine saved his life. Prayer is a staple in his life.

Scientific Evidence Suggests Prayers Positive Effect

In 1988, Cardiologist Randolph Byrd conducted a landmark study at San Francisco General Hospital on the positive therapeutic effects of intercessory prayer on cardiac care patients.  The control group or patients who did not receive intercessory prayer required ventilator assistance, antibiotics, and diuretics more frequently than patients in the Intercessory Prayer group. This study and other data suggest that a prayer mediator or intercessory prayer to the Judeo-Christian God has a beneficial therapeutic effect in patients admitted to a CCU. This study laid the ground work for other related studies.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3393937

Try the A-C-T-S Prayer Method 

Adoration Loving God you're amazing!
Confession Merciful God I confess my sins and ask forgiveness.
Thanks Lord I come before you with praise and thanksgiving 
Supplication Almighty God help, save, heal and bless me.
I ask in the powerful name of my Savior, the Christ. Amen.

Prayer Chants (spoken repeatedly):

The Jesus Prayer – “Jesus Christ, Son of God have mercy on me.”

A Prayer for Mercy & Thanks – “Lord have mercy.” and “God, we thank you.”

God Is Able

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Are you able to ask God to supply your needs?

You’re invited to “Park and Pray at 1:11” pm in spirit with us.

God is awesome and radically able to do more than we imagine.  image

The One Who Made a Cross

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

The hidden cross is not hiding from us. It’s offering us the naked truth about the Resurrection. He’s no longer here. Christ is risen, indeed he’s risen.

The naked cross is not naked. It is only stripped of the crucified one. It’s smooth brown satin finish reminds us that God can wash all our sins away. We are set free.

The cross, the nails and a stand holds us upright. The cross shields us from the intersection of life and death. Oh cross stay with us while we catch our breath.

The cross leads us, guide us and walks with us all the way. Show us how to care for you cross. Should we carry our burdens on our shoulders?

Breath on me, oh lovely cross. Fall down on my knees. Teach me to seek forgiveness. Oh cross that I may forgive all this day and always. In the name of one who bore the Cross. Amen.

Have You a Zechariah Moment?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“Let the trees of the forest sing for joy.” Ps 96:17      Artist Barbara Whatmough

“Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”  Luke 1:11-13 NIV

Reflection

How often have you prayed and wondered if your prayers have been heard? Maybe the answer to your prayer is not what you expected to hear. Maybe fear stands in the way of you knowing your prayer has been heard and already answered. In a figurative sense try meeting God at the right side of the altar. Breathe deep and release all fears. Receive the assurance that your prayer has been heard. Now boldly go forth and testify. Thank the Still Hearing and Speaking God for hearing and answering all prayers.

Let us pray

Spirit of the Living God fall fresh on me. Call my attention to the many ways you speak to me. Open my ears so I will hear you. Help me to know that you answered my prayer. Open my eyes so I will see the path forward and move according to your will.  I release all fear and I celebrate the joy of your presence in my life. In praise and thanks I pray in my Savior’s name. Amen

 

A Prayer at 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Dear Family and Friends,

It’s been more than two years since I have intentionally prayed for you daily at 1:11 pm. While  praying for you, I hoped you were praying with me in spirit at that same moment. I’d like to believe we were praying together. I’m inviting you to sign on and partner with me by enrolling in this blog as a follower. I’d love to hear your comments, testimonies and prayers. Here is the prayer I am inviting you to pray with me at 1:11 pm. daily:

Dear Holy One, 

We come to draw from your Great and Mighty  Fountain and receive your love, comfort and peace. As we “park and pray” today, we thank you for your unconditional love and constant presence.  

We realize that at times we come with a long list of requests without considering your promises or plans for us. We often seek to satisfy our needs instead of considering your desires for us. Lord, we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness.  

Your Holy Word reminds us of your promise to answer our prayers. We are reminded to keep the faith and that you will bless us with the righteous desires of our heart. Loving God, strengthen our faith so our joy may be fulfilled.  

Merciful God, help us master those things in our lives that interfere with our relationship with you and others. Help us to know your presence in tangible ways. Loving God in your presence we find love, peace, comfort, healing, safety, financial security and shelter from the storms in our lives. Almighty
God, bless us abundantly. Bless us while we sleep, while awake, when we talk, walk, live, breathe and have our being. Bless us now, to be still and know that You are God. Bless our going out, our coming in now and always. In Christ’s Name we pray. Amen 

Your name will be added to the Prayer List Page once you sign on as a follower of this blog. Thank you for “parking and praying at 1:11 pm.”
God’s Abundant Blessings,

Pastor Cleo

Just Pull Over

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

It’s hard to drive while having a conversation with God.Sometimes we have to just stop and pull over. It takes all the strength left within to say “Lord have mercy!” Some things make us want to holler and throw up both our hands. What we see and what we hear these days troubles our thoughts. Then once and a while a sweet current blows our way and reminds us that we are not alone. God is present in the midst of changes, chaos, surprises, blessings and more. Sometimes we come face to face with a Stop sign that we ought to obey. It nudges us to stop, park and pray at 1:11 pm because we can make a difference in our lives and their lives.

I’ve Seen the MountainTop!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Feb. 12th, the final show and my second time seeing the MountainTop at Trinity Rep Theatre. I’m still thinking about this extraordinary performance by Joe Wilson, Jr. and Mia Ellis. They are two gifted actors, whose personal journeys are unlike the characters they portrayed.

Imagine it’s 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee and you’re looking through a window of the Lorraine Hotel. You watch the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and a decoy maid who was really an angel. It’s King’s last hours before he’s assassinated. The maid knows every bit of his story from the beginning to the end.

February 14, 2017, I’m still thinking about the MountainTop images, messages and meanings. I’m convinced there’s a connection with God’s redemptive power and promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

I reflect on these words by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
And this I know that I must

Fear not.

Have faith.

Be not alone.

For I am convinced
God is here.

God loves us.

God hates evil.

God forgives

God gives

Eternal life.
Thank God.

Thank you.

A Chosen Instrument 

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

expressions_shared.jpg

REFLECTION

I keep thinking about my post-election dream, vision, warning or revelation. It was three o’clock in the morning when I woke up to relieve my full bladder. I turned on my cellphone and I was shaken by the news that Donald Trump won the election. I leaned into my bathroom sink and prayed, “Lord have mercy! What does this mean?” I felt as if I received a blessed assurance that the answer was found in this passage Acts 9:11-20. Could it be that our next president “this man” is the chosen instrument and one whose scales will fall from his eyes? I thought about this passage for several days and I listened to the many voices throughout our nation. Then I parked and prayed this prayer at 1:11 p.m. for him and our nation as I rested in peace.

Let us Pray the Prayer of Saint Francis (revised)

Lord, make him an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let him sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy. 

O divine Master, grant that he may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive, 
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, 
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.

I Can’t Face It Alone

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

120_martin_luther_kingImagine, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., said, “I can’t face it alone?” He was a dynamic leader, a pillar of strength and he is still an inspiration. But, he was like many of us who reach a breaking point. Some of us may fall down on our knees and look up. We might stretch out our hands like a beggar and surrender to the Almighty. At times we feel like we don’t have enough strength to calm our shivering heart. We struggle to confess our fears and acknowledge our limitations. Finally, we let go and let God. When we come to a point when we can say, “I can’t face it alone,” then, what seems impossible happens.  We rise, turn the corner, and arrive on the doorstep of hope.  We receive the gift of grace, unmerited favor from God. We join with Dr. King and others whose witness marks the beginning of renewed strength and healing. Maybe you know someone who says “I can’t face it alone.”

Today, I learned that three children in my church community recently lost their young father. He rapidly succumbed  to uncontrolled asthma. My heart goes out to these children. I want them to know they do not have to face it alone. God is present in good and bad times. But, are we present and are we in God’s presence? Dr. King’s prayer, “Lord, I can’t face it alone,” is a powerful and profound truth that we “can’t face it alone.” But, with God, we can face it.

A  Prayer written by Dr. King:

I Can’t Face It Alone

Lord, I am here taking a stand for what I believe is right. But now I am afraid. The people are looking to me for leadership, and if I stand before them without strength and courage, they too will falter. I am at the end of my powers. I have nothing left. I’ve come to the point where I can’t face it alone. (M.L.K.)

Prayer is an Excerpt from ,”Thou, Dear God”: Prayers that Open Hearts and Minds,
For more prayers visit http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/christianity/galleries/thou-dear-god.aspx?p=4#gDID38mvtalxVDyo.99

 

All I Wanted For Christmas

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

As a child I sang, “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth, my two front teeth, my two front teeth.” But I don’t sing it anymore. I’m no longer a child, I have my two front teeth and I seek a greater desire. 

I can’t think of any gift that I rather have for Christmas than Love. Love is free, available and accessible everyday. There’s an unconditional fountain of Agape Love. The invisible Divine Light, Spirit Breath, Holy Wind, God is Love that knocks on the doors of our hearts.

The gift of love gives us hope not despair, faith not fear, and peace not turmoil. 

“Love bears ALL things, believes ALL things hopes ALL things, endured ALL things.” Love is the muscle that never gives in or gives up. Love never dies. Love is the gift that keeps giving. 

Today, I sing “All we need is LOVE. All we need is LOVE. All we need is LOVE, LOVE…LOVE is all we need.” I sing “Love Lifted Me.”

Waiting on the Lord

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

It will be said on that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, so that he might save us.
This is the Lord for whom we have waited; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation. Isaiah 25:9

Waiting is difficult to do these days. 

We rev up our motors hoping red lights quickly change to green.

We  deliberately press “Enter” with precision and repetition hoping our devices will respond quicker.

We turn off our ovens too soon, prematurely shut off the burner and rush to pop open a vintage bottle of wine that lacks savor.

We race up the escalator only to discover we’re going the wrong way.

We pray with rapid-firing speech while speeding pass the Divine Drive Through.

We  expect God to deliver us without ever opening the windows of our heart and hands.

Let Us Pray

Thank you God for Advent, a time to wait for the Star, God’s Light onto our path.

Thank you God for Advent, a time when we rise like freshly baked bread.

Thank you God for Advent, a time when we dare to stop to sing O Holy Night.

Thank you God for Advent, a time that prepares us to receive Jesus, the Christ.

“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Advent, the bridge to Christmas where we touch that blessed hope, peace, joy and love.

My God, we thank you! Amen.

‘Tis the Season to be…

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

imageA time to be born, and a time to die;

a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which 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; Ecclesiastics 3:1-4 KJV

Reflection:

What season best describes where you are today? Why?

Let us Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

Loving God, Master of the Seasons in our lives, lands, seas and world. We call on you.

You touch us, blow on us, rain down on us and remind us you are near, here and with us.

You cover us with snow, slow our pace and draw us closer to you.

You satisfy our shivers and quivers, with your soothing blanket of sunlight.

You carry us over hills, under valleys, and through the seasons in our lives.

Today, in the midst of our bubble wrap, gift cards, tinsel and carols, we remember the story of Mary and Joseph’s search for an Inn.

We celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Christ, and the Son of God.

Loving God, lead us to the shelter of your Holy Presence.

Guide us to your manger, a birthing place where Christ is born within us.

Bless us with renewed faith and hope.

Thank you for being a Refuge and a Shelter.

Thank you for the gift of Christ in Season and at all times.

We thank you for hearing our prayers and our praise, in Christ’s name. Amen

 

A Heart for Thanksgiving Prayer

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

God of Life
We give you thanks O Mighty God for each breath
As we inhale, we embrace the power of your love
We hold onto your peace
As we exhale, we release the forces that drive us apart from you

God of Love
We give you thanks O Merciful God for each moment
As we spend time resting in your presence
We wait for you
As we listen for your still speaking voice

God of Plenty
We give you thanks O Bountiful God for each fruit
As we celebrate the harvest of your Spirit
We remember your call
As we prepare to serve a table of blessings for all

God, our Provider
We give you thanks O God for life, living and being in you
As we feel your unconditional love
We are grateful for your provisions and yet we yearn
As people who need you.

For in you O God we live and move and have our being
(Acts 17:28)                                               Rev. Cleo 11/23/16

Finding Your Center

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Finding Your Center
Rev. Cleo Graham
Inspired by Ephesians chapter 4

This past Sunday Beneficent Church, my home church invited each person in the congregation to break off a thread from one skein of yarn. Although Delbert helped some of them do so, I noticed people pull one strand of yarn from the center of the skein. Each one held onto their thread during our prayer time and when we recited the Benediction while standing together in one circle. I marveled at the way the children used their peice of yarn to creatively make bracelets, rings, adorn their hair and clothing. I left with the image that we are one people, woven together, attached, at times pulled apart, broken, tied together and knitted. I think we naturally return to our center which is often the Center of something greater than ourselves.

Where is your center? Is your center found in a skein or a circle? Here’s why it matters. “Skeins are longer and more narrow, and are designed to be pulled from the center. Pulling from the center is neater overall, and the yarn won’t roll around. Balls are rounder and shorter and are not wound to have a center pull end. If you try to pull from the center of a ball, you will get a tangle.” http://www.redheart.com/articles/what-is-the-difference-between-balls-and-skeins-of-yarn

Centering prayer helps us focus our attention on God. Finding our center allows us to connect with our Higher Source and avoid entanglements when we are tossed and pulled along life’s journey. Park and pray at 1:11 pm offers a way to find the Divine Center in our day and lives.

Prayer
Loving God, you are the Center of life and source of all goodness. You keep us grounded in your love. Thank you for providing ways for us to connect with you and with each other. Bless the many strands of lives woven in our communities. Help us to live into the moral call to unite and grow in love, to embrace peace, to have mercy and do justice for all. May we recognize we are your handiwork, a work in progress. We are stronger, greater and secure when we center our thoughts and ways on you. In Your Holy name, Amen.

A Prayer For Rest and Healing

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

​Lord of life, I park and pray at 1:11 pm to remember You call me your child. You call me to rest in Your care. Help me to remember that rest is not achieved through a distressed heart, troubled thoughts, vindictive  behavior  nor can rest come through haste and discontent. In my moments of rest, O God show me how to “Be still and know that You are God.” Show me how to release my grip on my ways and open my heart and hands to Your guidance. Awesome and Loving God show me how to let go of my will, relax, and lean on You. Help me to lean into Your will and wait knowing that Your will is on time, perfect and good. Now, as I rest in Your divine peace, may I gather strength for the day and bright hope for a renewed ambition. I park and pray at 1:11 pm with thanks for the blessings of time, rest, thy Holy Word and presence. In my Savior’s name. Amen.

A Prayer for Our Children and Veterans

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Park and Pray at 1:11 for the children

Who wear the flags on their faces

Who wear the shades of all races

Young Americans, 

They march as one representing many nations

Waving the flag in many directions

Listen to the children sing “This land is you land, this land is mine land, this land was made for you and me.”

Let us prayer

O God, who comforts us, who wipe our tears and shoulders our fears.

Help us sing “You Got the Whole World in Your Hands”

Merciful God, hold us, America, the USA, the red, white and blue

Remind us O God we are in your palm too!

We thank you for our children who remind us that we have a future and

 a hope. We give thanks for all who serve our country as veterans, 

volunteers, canvassers, prayer warriors and more.

Unite us as one nation under God. Amen

Fuel for the Spirit

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

I parked and I captured this photo. I was inspired by the light and the green that broke through the openings in between the rocks. I prayed this post election prayer written earlier. 

Dear God, 
Emotions are scattered and often numb

You console and remind us

there is work to be done

it’s a tough message, a rough lesson

we may not want to hear

but we’re told to listen as it rings loud and clear.

We asked for change,

a jumpstart, a way to fulfill our needs

but like a rose that grew from a tainted seed

the unexpected happened right under our feet

like a landmine, like an explosion

like a tough bed of thorns

like darkness before a noonday storm

but, another way of listening is born.

My God! You often remind us

of One who lighted the Way

the Divine One who taught us how to pray

the Lord’s Prayer,

give us this day, our daily bread, we say

Then, we receive bread that’s hard to chew

Dear God,

In your holy presence we remember

our jaws are not broken

our hands are not chained down

yes, many hearts are sorely bruised

our eyes are wet and yet, opened too

Merciful God, awaken us to the reality that

You, O God Governs

Not man or woman

Not polls or pollsters

Not sound bites, hash tags, sweet or bitter tweets

Not likes, strong mikes or uncanny might,

Rules this country or world

It is the unseen Spirit, the Holy Light

That fuels our spirit and gives us the grace,

gives us the reason and the hope to be a light.

                                                       Cleo 11/10/16

Park and pray at 1:11 pm