LuAnne McNabb 1958-2009

I'd like to share a letter from my friend brother Darwin Benjamin at the passing of our mutual friend and sister in the Lord, LuAnne McNabb. May it remind you to live every moment to the glory of the Lord!

"It is with great and exceeding joy and humility that I write to you in regards to my sister in the Lord, LuAnne McNabb. I deeply apologize that I could not physically be with you, but know I am with you in spirit! I've asked my good friend Pastor Ed Han to represent me and my family by reading this short letter.

First, my condolences to the family, but please don't despair, rather celebrate that LuAnne is with her Lord. What God has done, no one can reverse. Honor her life with change by growing closer to Jesus. Let your light shine in these dark times to influence someone else for God's glory!

The Scripture says, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8). Now I know we all have drama in our lives and weakness, but there is strength at the Cross, in the Word, and through Jesus! When I think of Sister LuAnne, one word comes to my mind "JOY!" That’s what she always portrayed to me, even in drama. Oh my!

We would get together and talk about what the Lord had done for us and in us. Then we would get to shouting and laughing and dancing, no matter where we were. And of course we both would cry! Man I loved that about her. She was one white lady who could fire me up for the Lord with her zeal. I could look into her face, for she was my biggest cheerleader in audience. Even if I stunk, she never let me know. She would say, “Brother I love your fire. I love hearing you preach and dance.” I hope she realizes she was preaching to me! Her laugh, her smile, her giggle and her voice when she sang was one who I feel was sincere, for she loved her Jesus. She knew what He did for her - she knew.

Unfortunately, we as people often judge people who are different from what we understand, not realizing that they are gifts from God to encourage and love others. For the gift God has given us is individuals like LuAnne, to build His kingdom. I thank God for my sister and what she personally did for me. She always expressed "Joy" to me, even when she didn't talk! I pray that you remember how she sparked your life, or at least tried to. And I pray that you will spread the joy of the Lord in remembrance of her life, and let’s finish what she was unable to complete! The Joy of the Lord is our strength! I for one will keep my joy and honor her life by influencing others! LuAnne, I’ll see you in heaven for eternity. I LOVE YOU MY SISTER! Rev."D"

P.S. Somebody please come to Jesus today, because even at her death, God is calling you to Life in Christ! Please don’t let this moment pass you by - LuAnne was prepared for death by receiving God's gift to the world, Jesus Christ who paid it all so you could have it all! Come!"

Being a Witness Where You Work

W – Your Work is your Witness & Worship

Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all the while giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

Philippians 2:14-15 “In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you. You are to live clean, innocent lives as children of God in a dark world full of crooked and perverse people. Let your lives shine brightly before them.”

I Timothy 4:16 “ Keep a close watch on yourself and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right, and God will save you and those who hear you."

Philippians 1:27 “But whatever happens to me, you must live in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ, as citizens of heaven. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing side by side, fighting together for the Good News.” conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel

O – Seek Opportunities to bless and encourage

Romans 8:14 “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.”

R – Redeem the time – Be productive. Use your time wisely

Ephesians 6:5 “Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.”

K – Let Kindness be your way of treating people

Ephesians 4:32; 5:2 “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you … Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him.”

Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

John 12:32 “And when I (Jesus) am lifted up on the cross, I will draw everyone to myself."

I – Intercede for those around you

I Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”

I Timothy 2:8 “I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.”

N – Let them see your New Nature – Even in trials

James 1:2 “Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy.”

G – Give first - faithfully and consistently

Luke 6:38 “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

II Corinthians 9:7-9 “You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, "Godly people give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will never be forgotten."