CRH/BSPM/BSPOPP AND CoyRH/SEATC Clerical 2024 Fall Holy Days NewsletterMAIN STUDY–AT THE END OF THE TRAILShalom alechem from the Hub City (or as I’ve recently grown to call it–my new Rome!!)!!! Here’s trusting that you and yours are found blessed, well, and whole in EVERY area of your life today as the seasons both outside as well as in our lives once again change and our thoughts once again turns homebound bound towards His holy throne and eternal Kingdom that shall never end and that will be the future home of those who truly love and trust Him.I still gawk in disbelief that it’s already been around six months already since I took the leap of faith by my chinny-chin-chin to formally move from the Malta of two years that I lived at south of Floydada to Lubbock to serve as my new official home city and international headquarters. It hasn’t been easy by any means–and there’s still plenty of struggles I face that are still present as challenges that must be overcome (marginal homelessness and transportation challenges and problems being among them). But considering where I was at this same time last year, I now overall find myself in a similar position to another spiritual traveler that the physician Luke describes this way in the last 20 or so verses of the Book of Acts:Paul Arrives at Rome11 It was three months after the shipwreck that we set sail on another ship that had wintered at the island—an Alexandrian ship with the twin gods[a] as its figurehead. 12 Our first stop was Syracuse,[b] where we stayed three days. 13 From there we sailed across to Rhegium.[c] A day later a south wind began blowing, so the following day we sailed up the coast to Puteoli. 14 There we found some believers,[d] who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome.15 The brothers and sisters[e] in Rome had heard we were coming, and they came to meet us at the Forum[f] on the Appian Way. Others joined us at The Three Taverns.[g] When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God.16 When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier.Paul Preaches at Rome under Guard17 Three days after Paul’s arrival, he called together the local Jewish leaders. He said to them, “Brothers, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Roman government, even though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors. 18 The Romans tried me and wanted to release me, because they found no cause for the death sentence. 19 But when the Jewish leaders protested the decision, I felt it necessary to appeal to Caesar, even though I had no desire to press charges against my own people. 20 I asked you to come here today so we could get acquainted and so I could explain to you that I am bound with this chain because I believe that the hope of Israel—the Messiah—has already come.”21 They replied, “We have had no letters from Judea or reports against you from anyone who has come here. 22 But we want to hear what you believe, for the only thing we know about this movement is that it is denounced everywhere.”23 So a time was set, and on that day a large number of people came to Paul’s lodging. He explained and testified about the Kingdom of God and tried to persuade them about Jesus from the Scriptures. Using the law of Moses and the books of the prophets, he spoke to them from morning until evening. 24 Some were persuaded by the things he said, but others did not believe. 25 And after they had argued back and forth among themselves, they left with this final word from Paul: “The Holy Spirit was right when he said to your ancestors through Isaiah the prophet,26 ‘Go and say to this people:When you hear what I say, you will not understand.When you see what I do, you will not comprehend.27 For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes—so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand,and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.’[h]28 So I want you to know that this salvation from God has also been offered to the Gentiles, and they will accept it.”[i]30 For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense.[j] He welcomed all who visited him, 31 boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him.It had been definitely a long journey for the Apostle Paul/Rav Shaul to finally get to the city gates of Rome–and not just in miles neither from his initial starting point in Jerusalem. Of course, his whole life up to that point from when he got struck blind on the road to Damascus and even the years right before that had basically been preparation for what now lied ahead for him in this new city. All you have to do is check out what he himself wrote to the church at Phillippi:Philippians 3:1-10 New Living TranslationThe Priceless Value of Knowing Christ 3 Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters,[a] rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith.2 Watch out for those dogs, those people who do evil, those mutilators who say you must be circumcised to be saved. 3 For we who worship by the Spirit of God[b] are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort, 4 though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more!5 I was circumcised when I was eight days old. I am a pure-blooded citizen of Israel and a member of the tribe of Benjamin—a real Hebrew if there ever was one! I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law. 6 I was so zealous that I harshly persecuted the church. And as for righteousness, I obeyed the law without fault.7 I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. 8 Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ 9 and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ.[c] For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. 10 I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death,…and also to the Believers at Corinth in his second epistle to them to get the full effect of how Paul/Shaul generally approached life up to that point in time…2 Corinthians 11 New Living TranslationPaul’s Many Trials 16 Again I say, don’t think that I am a fool to talk like this. But even if you do, listen to me, as you would to a foolish person, while I also boast a little. 17 Such boasting is not from the Lord, but I am acting like a fool. 18 And since others boast about their human achievements, I will, too. 19 After all, you think you are so wise, but you enjoy putting up with fools! 20 You put up with it when someone enslaves you, takes everything you have, takes advantage of you, takes control of everything, and slaps you in the face. 21 I’m ashamed to say that we’ve been too “weak” to do that!But whatever they dare to boast about—I’m talking like a fool again—I dare to boast about it, too. 22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. 23 Are they servants of Christ? I know I sound like a madman, but I have served him far more! I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. 24 Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. 26 I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.[c] 27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.28 Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak without my feeling that weakness? Who is led astray, and I do not burn with anger?30 If I must boast, I would rather boast about the things that show how weak I am. 31 God, the Father of our Lord Jesus, who is worthy of eternal praise, knows I am not lying. 32 When I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas kept guards at the city gates to catch me. 33 I had to be lowered in a basket through a window in the city wall to escape from him.NOW this rockstar rabbi who was a disciple of the great Jewish sage Gamaliel and who would eventually become his Meshiach’s personal emissary to the Gentiles–THIS rabbi who went through so much as he approaches the Rome city limit sign finds THIS sight awaiting him at the city outskirts:Acts 28:11-15 New Living TranslationPaul Arrives at Rome 11 It was three months after the shipwreck that we set sail on another ship that had wintered at the island—an Alexandrian ship with the twin gods[a] as its figurehead. 12 Our first stop was Syracuse,[b] where we stayed three days. 13 From there we sailed across to Rhegium.[c] A day later a south wind began blowing, so the following day we sailed up the coast to Puteoli. 14 There we found some believers,[d] who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome.15 The brothers and sisters[e] in Rome had heard we were coming, and they came to meet us at the Forum[f] on the Appian Way. Others joined us at The Three Taverns.[g] When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God.ESPECIALLY make sure that you note verse here:Acts 28:11-15 New Living Translation Paul Arrives at Rome 15 The brothers and sisters[e] in Rome had heard we were coming, and they came to meet us at the Forum[f] on the Appian Way. Others joined us at The Three Taverns.[g] When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God.Those of us who have been on long journeys away from home usually find a sense of excitement, relief, and pleasure in either getting to the final destination we planned to go to and/or seeing the most familiar landmarks of our hometown after being gone from home for a long time. Paul by the longings of the Holy Spirit/Ruach Ha’Kodesh had been anticipating getting to Rome. Now here he was to a place he had never been before. How now would his thoughts and reactions be after so long a journey? And what does that have to do with this year’s Fall Biblical Festivals?If there’s one thing that’s self-evident about this time of years, it is what this same Apostle wrote to the church at Thessalonica:1 Thessalonians 4 New Living TranslationAgain, the Apostle admonished us–The Hope of the Resurrection 13 And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died[f] so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.15 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died.[g] 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died[h] will rise from their graves. 17 Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 18 So encourage each other with these words.Again, the Apostle admonished us–18 So encourage each other with these words. BUT WHAT, pray tell, MIGHT THOSE WORDS BE? And how might he after getting this far to the end of this particular trail be thinking and wanting to write about to the rest of his brethren throughout the known world at that time? In my humble opinion and analysis, here’s a quick short list of things he probably had on his mind upon seeing the city lights of Rome for himself for the first time in his life:(1.) He probably didn’t have it too far from his mind about what all it took just to get here in the first place. All those times he had to constantly run for his life and leave trusted friends and brethren behind suddenly without notice…Oh–he sure didn’t forget those people who whipped his back real good with a cat-of-nine-tails those 40 lashes save one. Times in prison, times he went cold and hungry; persecuted constantly by just about everyone and everything he knew because he dared to believe that Jesus/Y’shua was the Messiah and unashamedly proclaimed Him without compromise to the entire world. I’m sure those things were still pretty fresh on his mind as he looked out in the distance to the dominating Rome city water tower and skyline ahead of him.(2.) He remembered all the people and places he had encountered along the way. You probably wouldn’t blame him if he were still a bit steamed and soreheaded and desperata\ely desiring to give certain people a piece of his mind. BUTINSTEAD you’d probably be just as amazed to find out how easily he probably forgave all of those people who in the past did him wrong, left the judgment and results to his God, and hopefully entreated his God to open their eyes to these wrongs, come to repentance, and be reconciled to God.(3.) But even as he thought about those who did him wrong, his thoughts also probably turned towards all the saints and believers he met and got to know in all the places he was blessed to travel to through the years. He probably thought of brethren he remembered such as that Lydia in Thyrtira who took him into her home and graciously spent times of sweet fellowship with him and his traveling colleagues or those Berean brethren who received what he preached, took the time to give him a fair hearing, and examine the Scriptures themselves to see if the things Paul/Shaul told them were truly so.He also most likely thought of his compatriots such as Apollos and maybe even Peter himself that were also doing the exact same things he was doing (and whom Paul even dared to call on the carpet a time or two when Peter got a little offbase theologically on something). He kept in mind other standup folks he knew such as Priscilla and Aquila and also thst guy Epiphroditus who bent over backwards for him to see that Paul while he was in prison got all that he needed thanks in part to the supplies the Believers in Phillippi arranged to send him. Coming to the end of this particular trail was probably for Paul/Shaul not just for his own sake, but also for the sake of his most valued friends and partners who make the necessary sacrifices to help Paul get to his eventual destination. (4.) He would probably remind us of a similar time coming down the road for all of us that he wrote the Thessalonians about13 And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died[f] so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.15 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died.[g] 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died[h] will rise from their graves. 17 Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 18 So encourage each other with these words.He might also like to remind us that this life is not all there is. Just like Paul finally getting to Rome, he’ll probably tell you that there will be a time where we’ll also soon be going to a place that we all have never been before–but that will very much also feel like our final true home and destination. And when we finally get to THAT place, we’ll never have the desire ever again to leave, stray, or wander away …because at that time for us, there will NEVER truly be ANY place like THAT Home.(5.) Then Paul/Shaul would recommend that in the meantime while we wait for that opportunity to go to that final place, we first consider the advice he would have given to these same believers in Rome that he wrote to before he got here:Romans 12 New Living TranslationA Living Sacrifice to God 12 And so, dear brothers and sisters,[a] I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.[b] 2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.3 Because of the privilege and authority[c] God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.[d] 4 Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, 5 so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.6 In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. 7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. 8 If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection,[e] and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.[f] 12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.14 Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. 15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! 17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say,“I will take revenge; I will pay them back,”[g] says the Lord.20 Instead,“If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.”[h]21 Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.And then with a wistful smile and twinkle in his eye, he’d probably tell us–”And if you do these things, you will do well in pleasing the Master and in doing all the things He said and commanded us to do before He left us.”(6.) It would be at this juncture that Paul’s traveling companion and official physician Luke might jump in and remind us of something interesting about the way he specifically ended his account of the book of the Acts of the Apostles. “Have you noticed something about the way the Lord had me to END that book?” He’d especially try to point out with his finger the LAST two verses of Chapter 28:0 For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense.[j] He welcomed all who visited him, 31 boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him.We’d then clearly see for ourselves one big thing about the particular story about Paul/Shaul and the other Apostles. The book of Acts is written in such a way where there is NO CLEAR-CUT DEFINITIVE ENDING! IN FACT–the story STILL continues WITH ALL OF US…i.e.--the story hasn’t quite finished for us yet. After all of this, I think Paul/Shaul once he met the Roman brethren and entered the city gates for himself wouldn’t say that it was actually the END of his current journey–but only the BEGINNING! Then he’d probably turn around and say to us as he now officially starts his “contending in Rome” era–”Thank you, Lord, that You FINALLY got me here to this place. It’s definitely been worth every mile of the trip. Now, it’s showtime–time for me to get busy and get down to business and to work!”Just like it wasn’t the end of Paul’s story getting to Rome, so it is with our story pertaining to us. While we all await His final Glorious Appearing, let’s all remember during this Fall Feast season that His final overall redemption story for all mankind wil not for now en WITHOUT US involved in some way within it. Let us do our part while we still have time and opportunity to do so to make His Name famous in everything we do. That way, we’ll have no regrets when He finally lets us arrive in that place we’ve never been before…but that will serve as our final Ultimate Home and destination for the most ultimate of wedding suppertimes.Then as Paul gives us one last look before we part ways with him for now so that he can finally get settled here in Rome, he’d one more time reemphasize the following final reminder from our state department of highways:The Hope of the Resurrection13 And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died[f] so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.15 We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died.[g] 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died[h] will rise from their graves. 17 Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. 18 So encourage each other with these words.May THAT day AND place come speedily–even in our own days…Wishing you all the best to you and yours during this special Fall Festival season in THAT Matchless Name of Him who is now helping me contend in my new Rome….Coy RHSPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:(1.) I’d especially like to ask those led to do so to join me in appropriate intercession and prayer not only for Israel and its people in its current state of war against both Hamas and Hesbollah, but also in particular those in East TN/western NC affected by the foods that were the result of Hurricane Helena. One of my cousins just happens to live in the Asheville area in a town that’s about seven miles north of Asheville proper. When I texted him immediately upon hearing about those floods, he told me that he himself was fine personally save for losing some of the back treeline around his property–but that there were a number of his neighbors and people trapped in their homes and still waiting for water, power, and cell service to come back on. He told me that overall the scene out that way was sheer devastation. I urge people that wish to help in the disaster relief efforts due to road closures still prevalent right now to consider monetary contributions to such organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Blessing, and Kenneth copeland Ministries who are usually very active in various relief efforts as these as you might be led to do so.(2,) Here's a friendly reminder from your state department of highways that you can still get your copies of all four of our current releases available through BSPOPP such as “Walking From Lockney to Jerusalem”, “A Message from Siberia”, “sowing In Tears”, and “A’Wise and A’Foolish In Canaan’s Land”. Keep in mind that a portion of the proceeds of the sales of all BSPOPP books after basic expenses are paid goes to help various restorative justice ministries stay financially strong and prepared for futrure ministry. You can get more detailed information on all of our current BSPOP releases at https://coyrhseatcbspm.wixsite.com/walking and also access our Amazon pages through our good friends at texashighplainswriters.com through their “member Books page tab. On the member books page, just simply click on to the picture there of “Walking From Lockney To Jerusalem” to jump immediately to all of our BSPOP book Amazon pages. (And please don’t dforget to consider patronizing some of our distinguished West Texas author colleagues while you’re there on the Texas High Plains Writers site…)(3.) We leave for you two different special Sukkot gifts this time…the first is actually a new song the Lord just happened to get me to write just now about our featured topic of today’s MAIN STUDY. The second is our latest photo just for you courtesy of the good folks at Circle J photography here in lubbock who we happened to recently encounter at the West Texas Small Business Summit that was held here in Lubbock just a few weeks ago. Enjoy and have a great Fall Holy Day season!!!AT THE END OF THE TRAIL Lyrics(Music:) Think Southern Gospel–along the lines of the the style of Jason Crabb and the Crabb Family) (Start the song a cappella on the first verse, then add instrumentation as you go along…)(Verse 1:) It’s been a long hard journey From Jerusalem to here I can’t believe I finally made it After all these many years The Lord so many years ago Said to me loud and clear This was the place I needed to go to To finish my race of years…(Chorus 1:) At the end of the trail In a place they once called Rome Is now where I find myself No longer wanting to roam As the city lights are calling me And summon me towards His throne To a place that I’ve never been But they say is just like home…(Verse 2:) To all the ones who caused me trouble And persecutions galore I say, “Father, please forgive them– They know not what they’ve done…” And for all my friends and partners Who helped me along the way It’s for their sake I got here And by his grace one thing seems clear…(Chorus 2:) At the end of the trail In a place they once called Rome The trials and tests I suffered Are now just memories It’s only by His grace that I survived And by His love He saw me through As I come closer finally Towards a place I might call home…(Bridge:) The city limits sign And the city lights all beckon me I throw down all my burdens And hug my loved ones so dear…(Chorus 3:) At the end of the trail In a place I’ve never been The shooting wars all are over I’m finally safely in His den It’s a feeling I’ve never had Since I don’t know when Here at the end of my trail In a place I now call home.{Final Ending:] It’s here I will finish my course And at this point I’ll stay At what is now the end of my trail At this place I now call home.(Repeat last two lines–then end by singing lines–”Lord, I’m home…I’m finally home…I’m home….I’m finally home…”)© October 3, 2024; music and lyrics originally written by Coy Reece Holley and property of Broken and Shattered Promises Online Publishing and Productions. All rights reserved.
I'm a paragra.
BROKEN AND SHATTERED PROMISES MINISTRIES 2015 FALL FESTIVALS MINISTRY E-NEWSLETTER
(FULL NEWSLETTER WITH MAIN STUDY AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD VIA MS WORD ATTACHMENT BELOW--)
Howdy to all once again from the flatlands of West TX as we wind up a special time in the Jewish month of Elul focusing on the theme of repentance and prepare for the upcoming Fall Festivals ahead. But first--a word from our sponsor of today’s broadcast...
DO YOU SUFFER FROM STUPIDITY? HAS FOOLISHNESS HORRIBLY OVERTAKEN YOUR LIFE? HAVE YOU SHOT YOURSELF IN THE FOOT ONCE TOO OFTEN OVER A STUPID MISTAKE YOU NOW REGRET MAKING? NEVER FEAR, MY DEAR! The answer’s just a phone call or email away--when you partake of KING DAVID’S CASTOR OIL ELIXIR! Foolish decisions will soon be a distant memory in your life when you partake of KING DAVID’S CASTOR OIL ELIXIR! This hermetically-sealed and specially-formulated blend of herbs, spices, and castor oil is GUARANTEED to promote better mental health and common-sense decision making! No longer will you need to act like a fool in social situations when you take just a teaspoon a day of this ELIXIR--for you will seem like the smartest person on the planet. AND for today’s broadcast only, we’ll give you your first month’s supply for ABSOLUTELY FREE (plus a million dollars for shipping and handling)!! Just stop by this website-- kingdavidthinksI’mstupid.com! That’s kingdavidthinksI’mstupid.com! But order now--supplies are limited! Again, the website is kingdavidthinksI’mstupid.com! Order NOW!
[Editorial Note (LOL): The above announcement is STRICTLY an under-the-table paid announcement NOT necessarily endorsed or condoned by BSPM, BSPOP, or CoyRH/SEATC Clerical Services and was ONLY written as a joke! You may laugh now if you haven’t already done so...for the above is absolute balderdash! This is a ficticious announcement of a company that DOES NOT EXIST and was strictly written to make a point! DO NOT send the emails or Facebook posts--IT’S A JOKE! GET IT? GOOD!]
Seriously, have you ever felt like what was just described in our little commercial above? Just recently, I’ve been down that road again--and I even found out that even King David went through a similar experience just like I did. I believe that not only myself and King David have something to say to you about it...but more importantly, HE (as in your Creator Himself) has good news and an idea or two how these problems can be overcome for you during these Fall Festivals coming up. I’ll have more to say about it in this edition’s MAIN STUDY after I first get some very important ministry announcements out of the way...
MINISTRY ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(I.) THE LATEST RELEASE FROM BSPOP--”Sowing In Tears--A Journalistic and Poetic Retrospective”
AND NOW--for those that aren’t aware, we at BSPOP are happy to let you know about our latest book release called “Sowing In Tears” that was formally debuted at the July 2015 Downtown Plainview Association Artwalk. “Sowing In Tears” is a collection of some of my past poetic works that the Lord has had me to do over the years as well as selected essays and special interviews from my past work with Suite 101.com (now defunct). Among the highlights of this special collection include a six-part interview with Pearl Harbor survivor Lee Soucy and various articles and essays dealing with the current state of our state’s criminal justice system and also American Evangelicalism. But what will be worth the price of the book alone is a special two-part article series featuring a Worldview Weekend presentation given in Amarillo, TX by Darrell Scott (father of Columbine High School shooting victim Rachel Scott) that you will not want to miss. A word of warning, though--due to some problems with printing, you might need to get some good reading glasses and/or magnifying glass devices to read some of the print. But for those willing to take the risk, it’ll be worth the effort to read some materials that will inspire and challenge you to see some issues you may have not completely considered in a brand-new light. “Sowing In Tears” is now available both on Amazon and also directly from BSPOP in paperback form only.
(2.) SPECIAL UPDATE ON BSPOP BOOK PURCHASES
And here’s a friendly reminder from your state department of highways to let you know that the other three books that my God has had me to write throughout the past 20 years are still AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE RIGHT NOW on Amazon.com as well as directly through Broken and Shattered Promises Online Publishing--”Walking From Lockney To Jerusalem: My Life In The Worldwide Church of God”; “A Message From Siberia”, and “A’Wise And A’Foolish In Canaan’s Land: Detailed Bible Studies For The Believer”. How can you do so? SIMPLE...
Just do one of the following things to get your copy of each of these books in your hot little hand--
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Stop by the Broken and Shattered Promises Online Publishing website to see a brief description of each book, download FREE sample intro chapters to each book to get a little taste of what each of them is like for yourself, and then get details on how to order each of these books-- http://coyrhseatcbspm.wix.com/walking (no www. necessary on the URL) [FYI--You can also type in to any search engine “Broken and Shattered Promises Online Publishing” or my name to find the website in case the above link isn’t exactly right...]
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If you absolutely can’t wait to get them yourself, then by all means go directly to http://www.amazon.com and type in the search engine “Coy Reece Holley” to get a listing of all three books available. [Note: If you purchase directly via Amazon, the prices might be a little higher--but ALL books WILL be available in both print (paperback ONLY--sorry, campers) and also (except for “Sowing In Tears”) e-book form for those willing to subscribe to Amazon Kindle.]
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(UPDATE:) For those that don’t have computers and/or Net access, they can also call, write, and/or email me to pre-order each of the books directly from myself/BSPOP (paperback version ONLY--which I will be more than willing to assist you in obtaining as needed) at the following addresses and/or phone numbers: (NOTE: Please note new changes in my phone numbers due to a recent additional phone number I have added AND NOW OUR BRAND-NEW business and ministry mailing address...)
Broken and Shattered Promises Online Publishing
P.O. Box 1501
Plainview, TX 79072
Email: CoyRH_SEATCBSPM@yahoo.com
(806) 451-7475 (cell)
PLEASE by all means feel free to print and send copies of the enclosed order form and even this newsletter to those you know in your own circle of influence that wouldn’t otherwise have access to this information so that they can also have the opportunity to be blessed themselves by the information presented in each of these books.
Check out the last few pages of this newsletter for the book cover of “Sowing In Tears” as well as the covers for all current BSPOP releases and my brand-new order form that you can download and/or print as necessary to request these special releases from us...
[Special Note:] (A.) If you attempt to call me on my cell (especially for a book order), please leave a voicemail if I do not answer right away due to the fact that it is one of my methods of how I must currently screen my calls and make efficient use of my limited cellphone minutes. Also, (especially since I’m currently having to deal with some challenges with both my own hearing as well as cellphone clarity), please speak VERY slowly, LOUDLY, and DISTINCTLY as is possible to make sure that I am able to hear your information and then attempt to call you back.
(B.) In light of my recent release of “Sowing In Tears”, those who contact me directly to do your book purchase should note the following BRAND-NEW BSPOP price and rate structure:
BSPOP ALL RELEASES SPECIAL (ONLY if you order through me directly INSTEAD of through Amazon): ORDER ALL FOUR BSPOP BOOKS FOR JUST $50!! (Price includes all applicable Texas state/local sales taxes and shipping and handling...Please allow several weeks for me to be able to ship your order to you...) (SPECIAL NOTE--If you order this special, you MUST be willing to take a copy of each BSPOP book release for the price listed...NO MIXING AND MATCHING OTHERWISE ALLOWED!)
Individual books can also be ordered directly from BSPOP for $20 each INCLUDING all applicable Texas state/local sales taxes and shipping/handling. Please see the attached book order form for more detailed instructions on how you can order any and/or all BSPOP books. Those who are either outside the U.S. OR who are inside the U.S. who desire faster PRIORITY SHIPPING should add another $20 (U.S. dollars) to the total price of the order to help defray our required costs for additional shipping and handling charges.
Whatever way you decide to order any and/or all of these books, I feel that you will be truly blessed as you join me in each of these unique literary journeys my God has taken me on over the years and gain new practical insights and concepts about the Word of God and on some current issues facing the universal Body of Christ that you may have not previously considered. And if you like some things of what you find in each book, please don’t keep the words to yourself--but instead encourage others to take the following advice I’ve recently suggested to others about these important books--”Do like they do in Chicago...buy early and buy often...buy for friends, buy for neighbors, buy for strangers if you must--BUT by all means, BUY, BUY, BUY, BUY, BUY!!!!” (I’ll end my obligatory commercial message this right there at this point...hah, hah, hah...)
BSPM/BSPOP UPDATE AND PRAYER REQUESTS:
We at BSPOP want to first formally thank both the Downtown Plainview Association during the July Artwalk and also Templo Sinai Pentecostal Church during the recent “Rally For Jesus” for their recent help in allowing us at BSPOP and BSPM to get the word out about “Sowing In Tears” and also upcoming BSPM activities.
Significant progress has been made over this past summer on the technological front--especially in regards to making the overall website much more functional and usable to all. The new book order form (attached at the end of this letter) is part of the evidence of it--which is now downloadable directly from the website as an MS Word document and can either be printed for snail mail or even sent as an email attachment. And you can now even download FREE sample intro chapters of each book to get a small taste of what each book is like BEFORE you buy.
Speaking of the website mentioned above [ http://coyrhseatcbspm.wix.com/walking ], you hopefully have already noticed how everything is now linked to the website so that we will not have to rely so much on cumbersome email to communicate business and ministry messages. If you haven’t already done so, please stop by the website from time to time for vital updates not only on book purchases, but also for the plans and direction the Lord may be taking this particular ministry.
Also (as I’ve mentioned in the last newsletter), due to other personal necessities (despite the fact that I’m not necessarily a social-media guy), I’ve been forced to reestablish a Facebook page that had been long dormant. I’m now happy to formally announce a NEW additional QUICKER way you can stay in touch with us for current news on BSPM and BSPOP!! That’s by stopping in to our new Facebook page at www.facebook.com/brokenandshatteredpromisesministries ! You can also use the search function on Facebook as well to look for either “Coy Holley” or “Broken and Shattered Promises Ministries”. Our new Facebook page is now the QUICKEST way to keep an eye between Newsletter editions on what’s going on as far as BSPM and BSPOP. Those who are more social-media inclined are more than welcome to stop by, give us a like, post comments, questions, etc. about anything related to BSPM or BSPOP.
Work still continues on baby steps towards formal incorporation and other more pressing concerns of BSPM. There’s still a few more things that will remain before BSPM is incorporated as the 501(c)(3) that it will need to be--but the journey continues to proceed as finances permit and our God graciously permits and allows. We are still also working with one source for the development of the necessary ministry/business logos that will be required to operate and pictorially represent the essence of what BSPM, BSPOP, etc. plans to become.
AND NOW A MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT CONCERNING BSPM--
I think the press release that follows says it best on something BIG that is about to come--
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\Broken and Shattered Promises Ministries
P.O. Box 1501
Plainview, TX 79072
Cell: (806) 451-7475
Email: CoyRH_SEATCBSPM@yahoo.com
Website: http://coyrhseatcbspm.wix.com/walking
PRESS RELEASE:
BSPM ANNOUNCES THE START OF MONTHLY MEETINGS
Broken and Shattered Promises Ministries wishes to formally announce that starting in September after the beginning of the new school year, a series of monthly prayer and organizational meetings will be held focusing on the needs of those affected by the criminal justice system in Plainview and Hale County, TX.
BSPM founder and organizer Coy Holley says that these upcoming monthly meetings will hopefully be used as an impetus for both clergy and lay leaders all across the Body of Christ in the Plainview/Hale County area to start a coordinated and mobilized effort to minister to the varied needs of several groups that he feels have been long neglected: prisoners and ex-offenders as well as their families, correctional officers, law enforcement officials, and victims of violent crime.
Holley says that these initial monthly meetings ideally will consist of appropriate invited speakers currently working in various areas of the criminal justice system within the local area giving ministry volunteers presentations about what is currently going on in their particular area of criminal justice and also what ways the Body of Christ in the Plainview/Hale County area can help further and facilitate those efforts as well as times of Spirit-led prayer in regards to any issues brought up to the ministry as a result.
Holley throughout his years in working within various parts of what is now called “restorative justice ministry” says that he has been privileged to see the system for a number of different viewpoints--and that this personal learning process is now influencing the way he plans to approach the establishment of such a ministry on behalf of the Body of Christ within the Plainview/Hale County area.
“...When I first wound up starting on this journey, things were totally different than they were when I first moved to Plainview in 1996. Alcohol is now legal in the majority of this county--and economic conditions within Plainview are dramatically different than they were just 15 or 20 years ago when I first made the Austin Heights community my personal home.
“...But one thing right now remains constant among us--and that is the increasing effects that crime has on us all. And I’m not just talking safety, either. Families are torn apart by loved ones who are now incarcerated. The victims of those same crimes caused by those who offended them scar them for life unnecessarily and leave them forever changed--sometimes for the worse. Our local police, sheriff’s deputies, and COs in our local prison units daily go through literal trials by fire every time they put on their uniforms, get in the car, and head for work.
“...And to be honest with you, what have I seen the Body of Christ doing to help them out some to make their burdens a little easier? Not much--at least from what I keep seeing from my vantage point... I’m tired of our churches sitting here while Rome burns doing absolutely nothing about this. And most don’t even realize the possibility that some of these same people who have been impacted by our criminal justice system are possibly also sitting in their congregations for church services and activities each week--or even worse, don’t care or (most of the time because these folks are ashamed to say anything) are afraid to do something about it...
“...That’s why after this next school year starts I’d like to personally challenge like-minded people like myself within our local and area churches to join me in getting together to find out what’s really going on within our own area from qualified speakers who work within the system on a daily basis and find out exactly from them how can we as the Body of Christ do our part to make this city and this county a better place to live and work.
“...I envision Plainview and Hale County as a place where the Body of Christ can play an integral part in helping those being released from prison get a proper second chance after having served their time to learn to live again on the outside in a way that is truly compassionate, but yet requires them to work towards being responsible and accountable individuals that can make positive contributions to this community and county. I see it as a place where the broken and shattered lives of those who have been affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse can be able to turn from being victims into true victors in Him and end what I call their “Krystalnacht” of suffering. And I see this city and this county as a place where law enforcement and corrections officials can truly feel NOT just in words, but more importantly ACTIONS that they are appreciated and supported by our churches and congregational members both city and county-wide.”
Specific dates, places, and times for these meeting are yet to be determined. Those interested in further information about BSPM and/or who wish to be a part of this special ministry effort can contact Mr. Holley at their earliest convienence on his cell at (806) 451-7475 or via email at CoyRH_SEATCBSPM@yahoo.com . Information is also available on the BSPM website at http://coyrhseatcbspm.wix.com/walking as well as on the Coy Holley personal and Broken and Shattered Promises Ministries Facebook pages.
UPDATE ON THE ABOVE--Due to extenuating circumstances, we have decided to postpone the official start of these meetings until after the conclusion of the current Fall Festival season in October at the earliest. If you have a desire, leading, and/or calling of the Lord to join us on the ground floor of this brand-new and exciting ministry endeavor, please keep an eye on our BSPM Facebook page for further updates and/or call or email us for more information on how YOU as a part of the Body of Christ can truly make an impact on those affected by the criminal justice system.
ALSO--ANOTHER SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Once again, my good friend, Dr. Ross Jutsum with State of the Heart Ministries will be making his way to the Amarillo area once again next weekend (Sept. 12th and 13th) with visits to Amarillo, Tulia, and Clarendon. Those interested in further details should call Sammy or Julia O’Dell at (806) 358-2915 for specific places, dates, and times. Those that will take the opportunity to hear Dr. Jutsum in concert will be very much blessed in doing so.
PRAYER REQUESTS: In the meantime, those particularly led to do intercession and prayer for certain things for myself and others would do well to pray for the following:
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) Lynda Holley (my mother)--It’s been over two years since she became a permanent resident at Prairie House Living Center. She still has her day-to-day struggles and challenges (not only physically, but even sometimes with the changes in roommates that she sometimes has), but has held up well so far all things considering. She can still be contacted for those that wish to send her well-wishes and encouragement at the following address:
Ms. Lynda Holley
Room #209
@ Prairie House Living Center
1301 Mesa Dr.
Plainview, TX 79072
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) Ruth and Eddie Young (mother and son)--Both of these good saints also have been forced due to ongoing medical problems to call Prairie House home as well. I have know both of them for several years through going to New Covenant and have faithful members of that church for years.
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) I also have several other close friends at Westridge Manor in Plainview (one of whom I personally consider to be my second mother) that would very much appreciate prayer for the various situations and challenges that face them.
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) Speaking of Plainview New Covenant Church, as a result of the recent retirement of Ron and Marianne Brunson as pastors after 36 years of faithful and devoted service, the members of the Board of Directors of New Covenant have appointed Dennis and Doris Hartley (currently senior pastors of Dare To Believe Ministries in Plainview) as the new senior pastors and overseers of New Covenant [effectively creating a brand-new “joint venture” between DTBM and New Covenant].
Also, several other churches in Plainview within the past year have made the decision to enter into mergers/consolidations (or however you may wish to call it) of some sort including what is now United Assembly of God (the merged congregations of where once were Southside Assembly of God and Glad Tidings Worship Center) and Trinity Life Church (the new union between the Nueva Vida/New Life Assembly of God and Trinity Fellowship Church. Prayers for all of these newly-combined church fellowships would be much appreciated for increased unity and common purpose together in our Lord as they go through the transition phases of their development as combined congregations serving as representatives of the Body of Christ here in Plainview.
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) Denis and Brenda Dufrenne (Lubbock)--Various continuing health and other challenges
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) MYSELF and BSPM/BSPOP--Open doors and increased opportunities as He leads and guides as well as for discernment and wisdom as to what to do in each of them and for the sensitivity to the direction of the Spirit as to what would be appropriate for me to do as far as each particular situation is concerned:
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) Increased sales on all three books--and also additional opportunities for myself to get the word out on each of these and promote them...
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) Complete repayment of ALL currently existing personal debts and obligations (and/or even Divine cancellation of all debts as He may allow) so that I can be much freer to finally do all that He may eventually desire for me to do
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) Open doors to be able to FINALLY find the woman that He would have me to date and eventually marry as my future wife, bride, and special partner in ministry with
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) Open doors from Him to FINALLY be able to ACTIVELY pursue the ministry efforts that He may have for me to do--and the resources, wisdom, discernment, etc. necessary for me to do so