KEEPING THE FAITH | You can grow even in a dark place
It’s hard to believe that before cellphones evolved, the art of capturing moments was a pretty cumbersome and expensive process.
Gone are the photo development booths to process our rolls of film before they were overexposed. Even the audible shutter of the Polaroid camera and the incessant flapping to get a full picture seems archaic.
However, professional photographers understand the craft requires an investment of time. I absolutely love the skillful eye of William “Bill” Lewis, a photojournalist who has a keen ability to capture and tell the story in a single snapshot. Whether it is the rippling waves on Lake Erie or the comfort extended to a sibling who misspelled a word in a spelling bee competition, his images draw you into the moment.
Don’t get offended if you are at a special event such as a wedding and you are requested not to take pictures. Often, a professional photographer has been contracted to archive these memories. Countless shots have been missed or marred by well-meaning amateurs gripping their phones and intercepting the moment.
A darkroom was once used to process the camera’s film and to create prints. A darkroom is an area that is completely void of light. The darkness allows the processing of the light-sensitive photographic materials. Exposure to light before the process is complete can destroy the picture. The technology and usage of digital photography has made darkrooms a rarity but not obsolete.
The process of development can apply to our relationship with God. You can grow even in a dark place. The seed is buried in the earth and is covered. Yet in the fullness of time, it bursts through the layers to reveal itself.
A caterpillar prepares itself to grow in darkness. It weaves a cocoon to cover it while it undergoes changes that we do not see. Inside its protective encasement, the caterpillar does not die but simply changes its form, finally coming out as a beautiful butterfly or moth.
There are some things God is doing in this season of your life that are hidden from everyone else, perhaps even from you. Your family and friends may not recognize what God is doing in your life on your behalf. Exercise patience. God has plenty of time and does not have to conform to it. A thousand years is simply a day to Him. In this instant, microwavable, got-to-have-it-now society, learn to wait on God’s timing. He may not come when you want Him, but He’s always right on time. Trust the darkroom process. God is developing, shaping and maturing you for a greater purpose.
1 Samuel 22:1-10 shares an account where in desperation to get away from Saul, David fled to Gath, which was considered enemy territory. The Philistines recognized David, and he feigned insanity. For refuge, David retreated and huddled in the cave of Adullam. David would live among his enemies, yet his mind was directed not toward his foes but toward God. David turned his attention to God instead of the problem.
It has been said that worrying is using your imagination to create something you don’t want. So when you find yourself in a dark place, keep your mind on things of God for encouragement. Whether it’s finances, work issues, health, marriage problems or a prodigal child, I encourage you to trust God in the dark space. While you may have fully developed, be patient as others may still be undergoing their development. God can step into your finances, your health, your family and your job just when you think there is no hope of restoration or salvation. God may reveal Himself in your darkest hour.
Isaiah 45:3 provides comfort in dark places as God declared: “I will give you treasures hidden in the darkness — secret riches. I will do this so you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, the One who calls you by name.”
This life offers many things that look good, sound good and even feel good — but they are toxic, and even deadly! Godly things take time to develop. Godly gems are being developed inside of you. Grace, strength and even favor is being birthed inside you right now. It simply does not yet appear all that God has in store for you. Undiscovered does not imply nonexistent. So do not give up trusting God, especially when it’s dark. The midnight is often considered the darkest moment, but it literally lasts only for a minute. If you can endure for the night, joys come in the morning.
As a child, we were told that if we were bad, Santa was going to bring us a lump of coal as a gift. In retrospect, what a great gift idea. Think about it — a diamond is nothing more than coal that was able to withstand intense pressure over time.
As a child of God, the enemy considers us naughty and not a friend of his — rightfully so! Therefore, we must have stamina to handle the increasing pressure and frequent attacks that are actually refining us, ultimately to shine as a precious jewel in the eyes of God. Our beauty and brilliance emerges from our endurance and resiliency, so continue to keep the faith.
Elders Speak
Each of the following people are recognized for their achievements at the highest levels in their fields yet reflectivity shared how they addressed opposition and disappointment regarding life challenges.
Serena Williams, the highly decorated tennis pro who recently shared her intent to retire, is attributed to once saying: “I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.”
The late Chadwick Bozeman, an actor known for his iconic roles portraying Jackie Robinson, Martin Luther King and the Black Panther, shared in his 2018 commencement address at Howard University: “God will move someone that’s holding you back away from a door, and put someone there who will open it for you.”
Michael Jordan, an American businessman and former professional basketball player, once remarked: “If you’re trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I’ve had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it or work around it.”
Finally, motivational speaker Les Brown simply said: “If you can look up then you can get up!”
Sacred Music
I want to acknowledge and appreciate the legacies of community icons who have been prominent in promoting sacred sounds through the years, such as Pastor Timothy Carpenter, Dr. Alton Merrell and Brother Arnold Wagner, Maestro Wilbert Ervin and the incomparable Janet Simon Write, who all skillfully introduced various genres of music in worship settings.
Current gospel artists owe a debt of gratitude to figures such as Mother Gwen Morgan of Warren, who once toured with the Caravans for her trailblazing position. A talent in her own right, she often promotes and champions youths and young adults.
Pioneers such as Dr. Sophia Brooks and the late Dorothy Wigfall Green were actually paid professionals singing in local churches. Dr. Brooks was a television personality and host of the former WKBN community relations program “Expressions.” She was a member of the renowned Wings Over Jordan singing aggregation.
Mrs. Green’s contributions are still vibrant as the generations continue to bring music to our community. Her son, Jeff, is a musician and the visionary behind Jazz in the Park. Her daughter, Pamela, is an internationally recognized psalmist and prophet. Her grandchildren, Arielle and Joshua, are fruits of her deep roots.
I would be remiss if I did not note the accomplishments of my great aunt, Delores Ware-Spires, who was a nominee for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Whether she was belting out a gospel message with her robust alto voice or playing keyboards, it was her intent to bring Heaven to Earth.
Shout-Out
A very special thank-you to Donna Hageman, a retired educator and community volunteer who uses her voice to read “Keeping the Faith” and other articles to the visually impaired. This ministry helps others to see and give witness to the beauty of God. Hebrews 6:10 declares: “God is not unrighteous to forget your labor of love!” Bless you for your sustaining and impactful ministry. Your labor is not in vain. God and His people appreciate your commitment.
Wholesome Family Activities
Cleveland’s Hubb’s Groove, with Robert Hubbard, will close out the 2022 Jazz in the Park series from 3 to 7 p.m. today at Wick Park. As always, the concert is free. Extending continued blessings to Jeff Green and Jap Robinson for sustaining this community mainstay.
Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, 401 12th St., Campbell, is hosting its free Greek Food & Wine Festival as a fundraiser for the church. Today is the last day, and admission is free. You are invited to experience authentic Greek fare, including gyros, lamb sandwiches, tasty baklava pastries and wines. Rev. Father Steve Denas recognizes the festival as a way to share faith and Greek culture with the community. The festival will be held in the church’s community center.
Blessing Area First Responders
All active or retired Youngstown police, fire and emergency medical responders are invited to a luncheon at noon Saturday at 528 W. Indianola Ave., featuring Sly’s Original Barbeque. Retired YPD officer Ronnie “Sly” Jones and family are hosting this event to recognize these public servants in light of the 9/11 anniversary.
Faith in the Public Square
Pastor Johnathan Moore and Grace Family Church, 4478 Boardman-Canfield Road, Canfield, are extending an invitation to hear David Barton, a nationally known author and speaker, known as America’s Historian, and Chad Connelly, founder and president of “Faith Wins,” at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 12. They will be bringing a message of hope, revival and encouragement as they aim to help empower and equip pastors and faith leaders to stand strong in the faith and embolden the church to maintain its voice in the public square. You must register here for the event and lunch. Space is limited and anticipated to fill quickly, so an early response is encouraged.
Silver and GoldDebórah Benton and friends will host the first Valley Gold Holiday Classic “Big City” live event to celebrate the upcoming holiday season. Mayors Jamael Tito Brown and William “Doug” Franklin, along with their first ladies, Lynnette Brown and Kenya Franklin, will serve as community ambassadors. The formal event will be taped Nov. 12 at East High School, 474 Bennington Ave., and will be televised during the holiday.
The concert will feature a 10-piece orchestra led by maestro-conductor Dr. David Manning Thomas. The concert will offer a mixture of holiday classics, R&B and gospel. Performers include area talents such as opera diva Amber Monroe, R&B recording artists Blaq Rose, Mazhorell, Half Mile Home and the Lindsay Renea Dancers. There will be a special tribute and performances by Motown hitmakers Cornelius Grant and Glenn Leonard and celebrity talk-show host Debórah.
The Dignity of Work
As our country celebrates Labor Day, let us reflect upon the occasion and remember all those who labor and toil for the good of all our communities. Although Labor Day is not a religious holiday, it is an occasion to bless God for His provision through the labor movement. I am fully reminded and appreciative of the carpenter from Nazareth who labored on my behalf with His hands and body.
Dear Lord, the source of all wisdom and purpose, and the blessing of those who labor — be with us in our work to guide and govern our world. Give to all people work that enhances human dignity and bonds us to one another. Give us pride in our work, a fair return for our labor, and joy in knowing that our work finds its source in You.
We pray the blessing of Ecclesiastes upon each worker: “That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil — this is the gift of God.”
Keep every employee healthy, safe and strong. May the work of their hands provide the means they need to care for themselves and their families. Please provide work environments and conditions that allow all to do their jobs in safety, where they are respected and valued by their superiors and where they are rewarded by a sense of accomplishment.
May we exhibit Your grace and faithfulness in every task of every size to which we put our hands to doing. When our work on Earth is complete, allow us to rest from our labors and obtain our reward. Amen.
