HOW I GOT OVER

By Vernalee

Music, particularly gospel music  can lift your spirit and transport you emotionally. 

One such well known gospel song “How I got over” not only will lift you, but it is equally rich in its historical significance.  Allow me to explain.  During the Civil Rights Movement, songs were extremely meaningful and symbolic.  At the 1963 March on Washington after Dr. King’s stirring “I have a dream” speech left the audience of approximately 250,000 excited with inspiration, Mahalia Jackson followed it up with a rousing performance of "How I Got Over." Written in 1941 by the gospel singer Clara Ward after a cruel incident of racist violence, the lyrics tell her story.  The above video version performed by Joshua Nelson is so moving that it takes you to church wherever you are! His charismatic performance reminds me of my late lifelong friend Darryl Kingdom Maxey. Similar to Joshua, Darryl with his Mississippi flavor and theatrics had showmanship and gave it to his audience. An incredible pianist, he could play those ivory keys and sing melodically to the Heavens.  As you listen to Joshua and watch his dramatic performance, I’m sure that he will “rock your soul!”

Now, to get a double dose of great gospel singing that touches every muscle in your soul, listen to the late great Mahalia Jackson's version which will make you get up out of your seat and praise The Lord for his blessings and grace! The video’s footage is old but the message is everlasting. Happy Sunday and Blessings!

I LOVE THE LORD

By Vernalee

And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your

neighbor as yourself.” Luke 10:27

Saying you love someone is easy. It’s a mere utterance of words. Showing someone that you love them goes beyond lip service. It requires actions. If we can show love to others, we are doing exactly what God desires. The love starts with loving God in all things with your heart, mind, and soul. Our love for The Lord makes it easier to love your neighbor. It takes total commitment! It takes knowing that The Lord will never leave you or forsake you. It takes faith!

DAYLIGHT COMES IN THE MORNING

By Vernalee

Worry...

Many of us have worries and have worried. Often times, our worries are centered on areas that we cannot control, even remotely. Worry has a strange and inclusive quality. It consumes us and sticks to us like glue. We carry it around with us all day. It keeps us up at night. Oh my!

My Mother imparted many words of wisdom that have become permanently etched in my soul. She said, “Sugar, get you some rest and turn that thing bothering you over to The Lord. Daylight comes in the morning and hard times don’t last forever.” Thank God for Mothers! They have a way of showing you the light! Miraculously, their words shine brilliantly in your life and illuminate your path even after they are gone!

Photo credit; quote speaks.com