Life in Session Cafe'

Bathroom . . . Christmas

2011-12-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

Another unconventional Christmas symbol has been born. We can see Christmas everywhere
when we're wearing vision enhancement tools. What might those symbolic optical visual enhancement tools be? It certainly looks like the list includes: eyes of faith, excellence through accountability, intentional preparation, dream fulfillment, daily fresh starts, unconditional love, confession of sin and purified from all unrighteousness, willingness to accept Jesus' death as Father's gift of restoration.

Christmas is a reminder that Father gave His best - Jesus. So when the music of the season fades, we will have someone of value with no receipt required. Who is this? He is Father's love embodied in
in human form to demonstrate His unconditional love, giving us all an opportunity to become all He created us to be.

Now, that's the merriest Christmas!

Christmas . . . A Kingdom Initiative

2011-12-25T10:14:00.000-08:00

Images plant concepts in our minds. The above image doesn't quite fit the conventional image of Christmas. I agree.

JESUS BROKE CONVENTION

He came from an eternal idea, one before its time - eternity. He connected men with God, so we would have a choice between life forever in the presence of Almighty God or forever separated from Father God. With all the technology of the day, the number one best book seller remains to be His chronicled word - the Bible.

JESUS BROKE CONVENTION

Christmas is why parking lots are built to maximum capacity in retail outlets for Christmas shoppers. Why? The last four weeks of the year is when many retailers earn 40% - 50% of their annual income. The remainder of the year those asphalt diagonal and parallel spaces lie dormant. Three hundred sixty days of minimal use . . . .

getting ready for the big one. Jesus doesn't even charge the retailers for licensing His birthday. He doesn't ask for residual income. Does He know what's occurring? We know the answer.

JESUS BROKE CONVENTION

He invites us to join Him in restoring HIS kingdom initiative . . . salvation, the seed of His birth - Christmas. He knows our hearts and still invites us to become His brother and know His Father. If this isn't enough, He expects us to break convention and be like Him. Well, let's not disappoint Him and give Him the best gift we can offer . . . our hearts. Hearts that are willing to say yes to His Kingdom Initiative . . . seeing His Kingdom come in our sphere of influence as it is in heaven.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

THANKSGIVING IS HERE!

2011-11-24T08:57:00.001-08:00

Well, I'm sure your kitchen may look a bit like ours. Our lives are pretty much the same. We all share the fruit of a disordered world . . . called sin. The good news for which we can give thanks is, Jesus
Christ is present to put our chaos in order. He mixes the right ingredients to give us a tasty delightful
life to share with others . . . This is real Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-21T22:01:00.001-08:00

This plant was given to me by my Mom - Mimie. I am very fortunate to have her as a "kneel in" mom. She has been a mid-wife for me and family. That's why this plant is so significant to me. It is blooming in off season. Our lives bloom by God's seasons, not natural seasons. When Father says He wants buds and flowers He makes it happen. Jesus said the fig tree will give no more fruit. Days later when he returned, the tree was dried up.

Our lesson: Wait on the Lord to flower the plant He gives you. Respect and honor the hands that give you the plant. He chooses those hands to remind you that He cares for you when you don't see or have any awareness of His presence. He chooses hands that know how to function in a kneeling position.

He chooses hands that will give thanks when the fruit that they plant is destined to return to bless and affirm them in their faith and obedience to Him. So now Thanksgiving has an enlarged meaning for me. It really says Father's Season of Increase comes through giving thanks. GIVE, a seed we all
possess. Giving always positions us to be in the flow of God's abundance. We must be willing to sow in an unnatural season to reap in a supernatural season.

May the God of everything and everybody, the LORD, bless you in this season and surprise you with kindness, anticipating a need and then filling it. May His presence actually become our greatest pleasure.

FOLLOW THE LEADER

2011-11-08T17:49:00.000-08:00

My Dad

2011-11-04T17:31:00.000-07:00


My dad loved me and my mother. He served his country and was a skilled professional painter. He was Father God's choice vessel chosen to create me in the image and likeness of Himself. I am grateful for and to my father for all he chose to give me in this life. May I love my wonderful children and incredible wife while serving this country through my gifts as a visual content producer. In so doing, I will give honor to the Son of the living God and our Father who leads me by the Holy Spirit.

After 31 years I visited my dad's grave site. Our fourth child, Joanna, encouraged, planned, and passionately pursued this needful encounter. The last time I saw my dad I was ten years old. He died when I was twenty four. Life sometimes is lived with vacuums unknown to us. Father God creates us all with a vacuum designed that only He can fill. I believe there's a vacuum that only dads' can fill.
That's why Father God says He'll be a father to the fatherless. Even though we don't understand these vacuums they still exist.

I have a new friend that is a very special friend full of wisdom, his name is Kirk. I listen to him describe choices he has made based on the relationship he had with his dad. If flows out of him like a running spicket. I can't share those experiences, that's a vacuum. Every man needs the imprint of his dad. It is this imprint that gives the male manhood. Without this experience it's difficult to become a man, but still be be a very successful male. A male can work, produce a child, earn great rewards on earth and even in spend eternity with Father God.

Jesus was a man. He did only what He SAW His Father do. A boy needs a man so he can SEE.

Oh God, thank you for allowing me by your grace to understand and now through your grace begin to SEE. Breathe on me Lord, fall on me. When this day is over and gone, still I am going to need you more. Cause you are the only one that satisfies . . . breathe on me . . . fall on me.

I love you Abba and thank you for choosing my earthly dad, just like you chose Jesus' earthly dad.

The Tide . . . It's Turning

2011-11-03T14:12:00.001-07:00

<div style="text-align:left; width:450px"><object id="myWidget" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.blurb.com/assets/embed.swf?book_id=2614416&locale=en_US" width="450" height="300"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><param name="movie" value="http://www.blurb.com/assets/embed.swf?book_id=2614416&locale=en_US"></param><a target="_new" href="http://www.blurb.com/books/preview/2614416?ce=blurb_ew&utm_source=widget"><img src="http://bookshow.blurb.com/bookshow/cache/P3652489/md/wcover_2.png"></img></a></object><div style="display:block;"><a href="http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/2614416?ce=blurb_ew&utm_source=widget" target="_blank" style="margin:12px 3px;">THE TIDE . . . IT'S TURNING Light Rail . . . Connecting Communities by Ronald Atkinson</a> | <a href="http://www.blurb.com/landing_pages/bookshow?ce=blurb_ew&utm_source=widget" target="_blank" style="margin:12px 3px;">Make Your Own Book</a></div></div>
Enjoy this narrative journal highlighting the historic Virginia Light Rail. Norfolk serves as the womb of transportation urbanization. The nation is going green and Hampton Roads is leading the way of Virginians to this sensitivity with the TIDE, Light Rail mobilization. Opening day saw record level participation that has carried through to high ridership. Let's ride the Tide!

I have had fun documenting this historic event for the city of Norfolk visionaries. I hope you enjoy the community exploration. Look for more Tide projects coming. See more images at www.urbanstockhouse.com

GPS . . .

2011-10-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

We Remember . . . . 9/11

2011-09-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, we remember . . . With the USS Cole in background and carnations in the foreground the U.S. imperfect flag on display reminds us that an element of our country has been shifted out of view. The circles below on the ground symbolize the foundation of flag elevation is UNITY.

As a country we must come to realize our strength begins and ends with Almighty God's approval of our hearts. Secondly, our individual choices must acknowledge Him in all our ways. Lastly, we must allow others the freedom to choose His ways that are higher than ours. Therefore, we choose to forgive not remember the offense.

The winds of 9/11 flamed attack leaves our nation forever changed. We're reminded we are not a perfect nation by Father's measure nor man's. Our flag's display reminds us that we are upheld not by our weaponry but by our care and concern. Care and concern that's willing to extend ourselves (like the ladders) for the safety of another represents our greatest arms to bare.

Let's leave them the TRUTH to remember, live by, build upon, and take to the nations to whosoever will receive it. Democracy is man's good attempt at God's best. That's why it's IN GOD WE TRUST. Let's live for the best not the good.

"Men must be governed by God or they will be ruled by tyrants."
William Penn

We remember you Father.

Let us not forget who our defender is . . . Jehovah Nissi. His banner is perfect and our foreground and background are always in sharp focus and assuring our eternal protection. Lord forgive me for not REMEMBERING you.

Jump Please . . .

2011-09-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Life leaves all of us with a need for a jump occasionally or seasonally. Lately I've learned that it doesn't matter how nice a battery looks as long as it can deliver the timely jump. The battery needing the jump may look perfect on the outside but may not be rechargeable or low in power. The battery that can deliver the goods may not necessarily look the greatest on the outside, but has the juice to get one going.

Life Lesson: Our rescue like the woman of Zarephath, may look meager and fruitless. However, if that's Father's voice or vessel of rescue, take it. Remember, Father does know best.

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

PRETLOW PLANETARIUM . . . CJ

2011-08-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

This photo was inspired by a genius of a man, CJ Oakley, and retired U.S. Navy Command Master Chief. CJ serves as Assistant Director of Pretlow Planetarium at Old Dominion University. In addition, he is an Instructional Support Manager for the Department of Physics. He was selected as Rookie Staff Member of the Year - 2008 and Staff Member of the Year - 2010. CJ has great vision and crossover of science and living; it's incredible. He gave me a little bit of the history of this wonderland planetarium prior to his take over. You'll have to visit Pretlow and hear first hand.

I saw a living example of what can be done when one sees in the dark, while others are hoping someone can make sense out of the dimness. The animation and drama programming displayed
with a stunning laser video system leaves the audience edutained (educated and entertained).
A retired military weapon specialist and husband of 30 years with three sons, he embodies a true educator. Monarch land has done well to capture this prize.

He is shooting for the stars with content, audience, and production values in mind. He awaits the smoke machine to yield more tactile experience to the viewer. To the left CJ rest with custom built scope he designed . . . . He's not looking but searching in the future. Thanks CJ.

See Photo - Media of Pretlow . . .

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

Light Rail . . . TIDE is here.

2011-08-19T18:55:00.000-07:00


At the MacArthur Square two trains hit the curve and are photographed using our new service, Photograph.Elevated http://www.assignstock.com/?page_id=70

Today I met Ms Ruth from Chesapeake. She is 90 but closer to 91. She was full of energy today as she awaited the arrival of the TIDE, Light Rail. I spotted her about 6:30ish am at the MacArthur station in downtown Norfolk, home of the shortest light rail in the country. Today Jeff and I imaged a lot of trains. I pulled away to capture some people . . . perhaps the real story. Tomorrow it's people all day at the 11 stations and neighborhoods, timing out from head to toe at about 7.4 miles or so . . . I think.

Lesson Learned Today: Father is not concerned about where we wind up but rather what's the position of our heart in the journey. Right heart yields correct destination . . . so I'll ride the TIDE tomorrow knowing the tracks are laid; hence, my destination is sure. All I have to do is buy my ticket and board.

I just need to get on board with Father God as well. Buy my ticket, give my
life continually in faith to Jesus Christ.

The image above is a band, Olde James River Jazzband, that I listened to today. They are a great foot tapping and atmospheric enhancing group styled with dixieland, ragtime, and swing Give'em a call, you'll be glad you took the musical ride . . . .

Remember stay focused.

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

Switch . . .

2011-07-18T18:23:00.000-07:00


Switch to Urban Stock House's culturally distinct and inspirational library as your visual content partner.					We're a visual voice in the marketplace propelling social entrepreneur interpretation to the visual content industry.

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

POWER

2011-07-12T19:54:00.000-07:00


Power . . . The Church must demonstrate power in the marketplace, power that can shake corporate communities to accept that Jesus is the Lord of the monetary system. He is GOD whether we "trust" Him or not. He's not Lord because it's a good slogan.

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

TIME . . . CHAIROS . . . DESTINY . . . Application

2011-07-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

The chairos moment . . . when God invades the chronos. In simple language, when God gives us divine connections. This experience results in responding to promptings of the Holy Spirit or commands from Father in His word or direction from daily living in obedience and sometime in disobedience.

Rob Monti, owner of Monti Design and Associate Pastor of New Life at Virginia Beach shared these thoughts today. I was most challenged. It was a chairos moment for me. I believe every Christ follower desires to flow in this relationship with Father. It is here that Dreams and Destiny are embraced and manifest. Dreams are the blueprints of the Kingdom of God entrusted to each Christ follower. The enemy's assignment is to destroy or alter these original blueprints. He forever has an all out assault on these precious blueprints.

we must protect

at all cost

these blueprints

How?

My dear friend Mike Johnson suggest how this is accomplished in the below note.

(Mike operates, Breakthrough Church, a church marketing and communication strategy group)

"To come along side people’s dreams will many times bring you into their prayers before

they are known to them as prayers. God hears the heart’s cry and has given us the

privilege of introducing dreamers to the Dream-giver, Himself.

Reaching people through their God-given dreams is incarnational withreach. We

humbly approach people from within their world and seek out God’s deepest active

work in their spirit. This brings evangelism and discipleship together in a truly redemptive

work, and because it awakens internal fires, it is the surest path to genuine transformation.

From ‘masterpiece’ seed to maturity, this is purpose-driven discipleship

along the path of God design. In this way, withreach discipleship comes full circle as

dream-empowered people know experientially how to

empower others.

God’s dreams and purposes are found active in people and

in the redemptive purpose of whole communities (discovery).

Our role is also discerning and interpretive (nurturing),

and connecting, supportive, and celebratory (acting).

Berkley Our Dream is the first model of the Never Become Bigger Than The Cause Initiative. This School-Based Community Development project is in the early stage development located in Hampton Roads Virginia.

But the first step in the DNA process (Discover-Nurture-Act),

is to find the story, the ‘real story,’ of people, families, and

cultures, and even cities and nations. That is the great

adventure!"

M Y L I F E A P P L I C A T I O N

Kerry Lammi, photojournalist and peacemker and very close friend, provoked me to repentance as a result of reading his blog. Kerry's record in text and visuals challenged me to do one thing. Tell the stories on the inside of me through the images I have captured, simple BUT most profound. Kerry says it so much better than I can repeat; please visit his blog. Perhaps you too will repent and release the

GLORY - Father's story told through our lives.

The truth be told none of us make it on our own. We weren't designed to go it alone but to be interdependent in relationship with others and dependent upon God. Independence is the enemy's bait to isolate the Christ follower and derail Him from his/her Kingdom assignment. May we today be released into our destiny through embracing chairos opportunities. The Christ follower will be rewarded based on his/her fulfilling his his/her assignment-purpose-destiny. It's never too late.

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless. I will confirm my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers." (Genesis 17:1-2)

Could it be that walking before Father blameless allows Him to confirm His covenant? We must depend on Him. If we sin, trust Him - confess our sin. He will forgive us and empower our repentance to change our heart, thinking, and behavior. (IJohn 1:9)

WE ARE THE SOLUTION
TO SOMEONE'S POLLUTION

Let's flesh out this chairos living together . . . what's your dream?

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

Grand Slam . . . Honor

2011-07-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

Signed by the great John "Buck" O'neil, first Baseman and Manager. "He sent more Negro League veterans ashore to the white Majors than any man in baseball history: Ernie Banks, George Altman, Gene Baker, Francisco Herrera, Elston Howard, Connie Johnson, Sweet Lou Johnson, Satchel Paige, Hank Thompson and Bob Thurman. Treasure housed in Norfolk's collection. -Negro League Baseball Players Association

This is the second post surrounding athletic events. Could we be seeing something in the wings that is an indicator of character before benefit. You've got to read the article to appreciate the value of honor and integrity.

See this post: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/Fan-returns-3-000th-hit-to-Jeter-team-rewards-h?urn=mlb-wp12123

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

Hoopla about THE HOOP

2011-07-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

There is a new generation that is delivering the goods. They are in places we may not be looking.
You've got to read this story and be encouraged. The youth are listening and looking. Let's give them something to really shoot for . . .

(The STORY)http://articles.latimes.com/2011/jul/03/local/la-me-compton-student-20110703

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

Faith in the Workplace

2011-07-01T21:04:00.000-07:00

Faith in the Workplace (see left sidebar). This new addition to content will serve as a reminder, why the workplace is Father's strategic zone for restoration. This addition is a result of an inspirational message from Regent University's Dr. Clarke and Pastor of Restoration Christian Fellowship. See "I REFUSE" entry.

Bonnie Wurzbacher, Vice President for Coca-Cola, addresses professional calling in the first article. You'll appreciate what she says about personal calling; enjoy while reflecting on this weekend of Independence celebration. Let's consider the cost paid to access the privileges we sometimes take for granted. One privilege is the opportunity to work in a culture where we are free to WORSHIP the true and living God and share this eternal truth in all of the earth.

"Focus on what is right . . . this causes the wrong to come into alignment." Let's WORK on it.

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values in the marketplace.

I Refuse . . .

2011-06-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

We are the hands and feet of our Lord Jesus in the markteplace. Dr. Clifton Clark challenged me with this timely message to see my work as HOLY. I must allow my work to redeem (take that which was in place - taken out of place - then put back into its proper place) the workplace or marketplace, Colossians 3:23. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."

We must refuse to be passive in our labor. I'm challenged to allow my passion for photography & visual content, (which Father put into me) to direct my thinking, time, and tokens (money). That's why Life in Session Cafe' exists. It's here to be a restoration stop for those in the visual content marketplace. It's designed to put a purpose pump in our frappe!

Recently, a dear friend went to heaven. She was a spiritual daughter of ours. It quickly refocused my hearing Dr. Clark's message. (If you enjoy hearing Father speak to where you are, you'll enjoy regularly hearing him at RCF (Restoration Christian Fellowship) on Sunday evenings at 7:00pm, 149 Business Park Dr. in Virginia Beach's Business Park off Grenwich and Newtown Rd.)

I was refocused because I knew the Lord was alerting me to make my 3Ts count. Someone is waiting on what's on the inside of us. God has on purposed given us passions to guide our work and redeem (put back into its intended state) our sphere of influence.

Will you join me in making a commitment to REFUSE to allow opportunities to pass by without

giving them a HOLY consideration? We are the solution to someone's pollution.

Clifton and Marcia have a gifting for allowing the

Holy Spirit to unveil truth that propels the hearer

to believe and allow signs and wonders to follow

the disciple of Jesus Christ. And you know what, this is normal

Christian living. Isn't that great . . .

Thanks Clifton and Marcia!

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and visual content for the purpose of restoring positive life attitude imagery and values to the marketplace.

How are we thinking . . . ?

2011-06-25T16:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes life is not quite what it appears to be. Here at Urban Stock House, we produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography. Images that break the stereotype and encourage the viewer to see from right to left, rather than from left to right. We don't have all the photography you will ever need. However, if you want to communicate culturally relevant messages and empower positive life messages in the marketplace, then we are definitely a good fit to become your visual content partner.

Son's Day . . .Makes Father's Day

2011-06-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

My son, Joel, recently celebrated his 19th birthday. It was a great celebration the week before Father's day. His birthday was also the volleyball tournament day, his last tournament of high school. I had a decision to make. Do I attend the volleyball tournament? I am a big team cheerleader. Or, do I help complete preparation for this surprise birthday event?
(The collage below includes members of Joel's volleyball team, CLASH, friends from New Life Virginia Beach and family - thanks for making this a SURPRISE !)

I won't tell you which one I chose. But I would like to say, my son's celebration of the tournament and his birthday was a great memory for me. I saw my little boy morph into a young man at this celebration. Joel is quiet spoken, a man of a few chosen words. However, his actions are like the Encyclopedia Britannica, which he references for school. Joel's celebration of his birthday and tournament gave Father's day a context. It's simple for me. Children train fathers to care, commit, counsel, comfort, confront, and crash at night. Why?

Father's need relationships that give us authenticity and accountability. Joel has done that for me and now is serving aces in my life to be certain I finish well as a dad. Thanks Joel for 19 years of expert training. I know you will be a great father. May Father God bless you exceedingly.

Love,
Dad

242 UNITY

2011-06-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

18-40-30 HIKE . . .

2011-05-21T19:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it seems it takes a while for the vision to materialize. Habakkuk 2:2 tells us the vision will speak in its due season. DUE SEASON, seems to be the operative term.

18 was the years Joseph had to wait before his purpose was manifested before his brothers and Pharaoh.

40 years was Moses' tenure on the backside of the mountain. The burning bush was his indicator that his waiting period was up. He learned some new skills: shepherding, husband/father, and patience.

30 years the King of the universe and its creator learned obedience and grew in stature as He prepared for His assignment of redemption. Jesus chose the way of DUE SEASON, for He came in the fullness of time, through 40 generations; the eternal blood line was pumping salvation in the earth in DUE SEASON.

Coach Williams like us has had his season of preparation, though the 40 years have been incredible, the Father is only beginning to make his life message speak clearly to the heavens and earth. The King of Glory has given him a mantle to be passed. Position yourself for the pass, run your route with precision and definiteness . . . look for the ball . . . run your route completely . . . and look the ball into your hands.

BROTHERS . . .

2011-05-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Children grow together . . . they are planted together . . . they embrace to disarm disgrace . . . their differences command respect . . . their similarities amplify rest . . . at the end of the day all that matters is - He's my brother and I'm glad God swung us together.

Boys on Tire Swing

Urban Stock House is a culturally distinct visual content company that produces stock photography and DreamStory content for the purpose of creating positive life message and visual content values based campaigns in the marketplace. All photography on this site is owned by Urban Stock House and its library.

FRIENDSHIP

2011-04-26T18:34:00.000-07:00

Campus Life . . .

2011-04-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

Party . . .

2011-04-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

Waiting . . .

2011-04-09T19:56:00.000-07:00

Life sometimes requires a pause . . . trust the quietness.

Selective Focus

2011-04-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

When we go in and out of the zone . . .

Focus

2011-04-09T19:41:00.000-07:00

Common Ground

2011-04-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

What Are You Drinking?

2011-03-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

I WANT TO HEAR TRUTH

2011-03-19T05:32:00.000-07:00

Testimony . . . God's Timing

2011-01-05T15:06:00.000-08:00

http://tv.yahoo.com/early-show/show/30181/videos/23740307

I spotted this story today on the internet. This story reminds us that Father always has an angel on the path, to quote Elwood "Coach" Williams. This gentleman's story is so convicting. Never judge a book by its cover. Perhaps the book we judge most critical is the one we're writing about our lives daily.

We must remember that God looks at our lives from the finish line. He only ask that we keep running til we cross the tape. To cross the tape means we WIN. Let's finish strong. We can do it.

RECONCILIATION . . . Healing for the nations starts at Sunday 11am

2010-12-30T06:06:00.000-08:00

18% Gray . . . Inspired by Christmas Cafe'

2010-12-27T16:51:00.001-08:00

18% Gray

What is 18% Gray? In photography this term represents a meter reading within a camera. The camera reads all color from a standard. Here's an example. It reads white as 18% gray, so it's not seeing white as pure white but rather 82% white. It sees black as 18% black. Consequently there is not a true black but rather 82% black. It's the camera's process of keeping an average to have more consistent lighting without extremes -this is a simple definition.

So what does this mean? What you see is not what you get . . . unless you make an adjustment in setting your cameras lighting options. If you snap your shutter with the settings, like snow, as camera indicates, your photograph will be darker or under exposed. With digital photography today 95% of those photos taken with digital cameras would render an underexposed image. Why? No manual adjustment to the conditions were implemented.

Here's the spiritual application. When we take daily occurences without having quality time with the Lord we're shooting at 18% gray. The situations look normal but they really aren't. We're on automatic, yesterday's manna - sermon, quiet time, song, meditation. When we pull up the image on our computer screen we notice it seems a little darker than when the shutter was fired. You correct it with photoshop and it looks fine.

Here's the problem. Because you don't know WHY it's underexposed, the same approach will be followed the next time. The correction using Photoshop is not the solution, Photoshop is a crutch for not knowing the theory of the 18% gray rule. It's a rule. It doesn't change, whether you're shooting film or digital. It requires the human factor to be involved - our will.

As Christ followers I believe we've been shooting at 18% for so long that we don't remember what a properly exposed lifestyle to the Holy Spirit looks like. Consequently our outcomes are not pure and we're packaging a product that is not 100% proof but 82%. There is no spiritual Photoshop that is acceptable to the Art Curator, Father God. Unfortunately not until Judgment Day do we get His evaluation of the finished work. We can make adjustments now with His grace and mercy and receive the blue ribbon for our final showing. However, we must be willing to be still long enough to allow Him to speak to us. He really does want us to finish well. He's our Father and every father wants his child to finish well.

How do we correct this? Go back to the manual, the Word of God. Read it, meditate on it, live it, grow in it, and pass it on. This is the guarantee for a properly exposed life before the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. It requires no Photoshop adjustment only Holy Ghost correction.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company that produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography for the marketplace. ASSIGN/STOCK is the service division of Urban Stock House, providing commercial photography and photo media projects for government, businesses, faith-based, non-profit, and ad agencies. Give us a call for your next project.

911 . . . Time to Act

2010-12-16T18:14:00.000-08:00

Just considering the state affairs in the Kingdom . . . 911 = Terrorist . . .

This past weekend I experienced an uncomfortable feeling in one of the urban communities of Hampton Roads. After witnessing three young 13 - 19 African American youth hassle and corral a 15 year old female, I realized something is VERY wrong in our country. It first began with my response. I was very uncomfortable with what I was witnessing. In all honesty I was SCARED, but fearful of what might happened compelled me to do something. While watching this incident I noticed another gentlemen on his cell phone observing the same behavior with no apparent concern.

I beckoned to him to assist and he readily responded, the youth fled and the young girl emerged from the courtyard between a church and commercial building unharmed. On another day I had witnessed a similar situation in the suburbs of Hampton Roads at 8:30am on a walkway in a community. This incident was at 12:30pm in a CHURCH parking lot.

I won't go into other details, but I will say I felt TERROR was upon this community. It seemed as if people were locked up in their homes with no vigilance or concern for what may be looming outside their door. It felt like vultures were ruling the community - preying on people and property and will.

Where is the CHURCH? Where are we? I think we're like the gentleman on the phone. We're blind to what we see or we're numb. I called Coach (above photo) and sounded an alarm. He coached me through what I had experienced and I was shocked. An effort is being mounted to combat the darkness and fear in our bedrooms, dinner tables, XBOX corners, and garages. Do we know the times like the sons of Issachar? They knew the times and did something about it.

The proper response for the Church is - "Seek the shalom of the city in which I have placed you, for in its peace, you will find peace." Jeremiah 29:7 Will you join "Never Become Bigger Than The Cause" initiative? We're beginning with BERKLEY OUR DREAM. One neighborhood at a time - one block at a time - one family at a time - one person at a time. What time is it? It's NOW time.

Stay tuned at www.canaanproductions.wordpress.com for updates and how you can become involved.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with a positive life message.

CHOICES

2010-09-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

What choices are facing our African American male youth? What is Father trying to
say to them and say to us through them?

Recently I heard a heart opening message titled: CHOICES by Dr. Clifton Clark.

King David made a choice . . . His was not to touch the anointed, King Saul. Dr. Clark stated one of the outcomes of our choices is our destiny and the destiny of others. Quickly I began contemplating some of my outcomes and associating them with choices. Needless to say I didn't like many of my outcomes that have affected me and my incredible family.

Purpose and destiny are God's implant upon our lives. I am learning to embrace these assignments implies constant inquiry of God which David did. A lesson I am freshly learning.
One's circumstances may be the result of choices of others, including Father God Himself, which was true of David.

David had done nothing wrong, God anointed and called him to be King. This was Saul's argument and disappointment. Position may not be our doing but RESPONSE or choices certainly are. Could it be that Father's will is to position us to make choices . . . ? He knows the choice we will make. He wants us to know the choice we make, so we can embrace His grace (favor) in our good and bad choices. Why? That our love for Him and confidence in Him will be based on who is not what we do - good or bad choices. Of course, He desires we make the best not just good or better choices. Choices come out of relationship. The relationship of intimacy and friendship with Father allows us to make God-Choices.

He wants God-Choices, so He allows conditions that will develop this Kingdom characteristic.
We can create our future today with best choices irregardless of past bad, good, or better choices.
So, let's encourage one another unto good works - BEST CHOICE!

Urban Stock House is a cause founded culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography company.

It's Time NOW . . . Come out!

2010-08-18T17:15:00.001-07:00

What Time Is It? - Part II

2010-06-03T23:44:00.000-07:00

There is a great unrest in the land. Recently I met a dear brother after hours who was carrying a hand gun on his hip (legally of course). As I record this entry I am having flashbacks of seeing this more recently than ever. I even remember seeing a young man 30ish pushing his toddler and walking his dog - PACKING.

Could it be we will soon be seeing Christ followers entering the worship center with automatic weapons on our hips along with our KJV gun? The question I am asking is which one are we loaded with . . . ?

This is a follow up to the previous entry . . . "What Time Is it"?

TRANSFER OF WEALTH

Father is waiting on us to align ourselves to demonstrate agape. The laws of the land cannot mandate nor sustain (Civil Rights Act is a great demonstration) this heavenly principle. It only took 40 years for the quest to repeal the Civil Rights Act and eat away at its provisions. The laws of man are made by man to suit man in his despair. Once the despair has passed or lessened, his heart reverts to its nature. Father knows this and gave Israel a divorce option because of the hardness of their heart.

This reality tells me my heart is deceitfully wicked how can I know it. This is not my revelation but scriptures' truth. Now that I agree with Father, I take his grace and mercy filled Word to govern my choices and adjust my perceptions.

I believe the Transfer of Wealth that the Church has been articulating and waiting for is in the earth. It's fullness and release is being timed by the condition of our hearts.

As Christ followers we are called to a higher standard than the prevailing custom of our culture. I believe the only reason we don't live the Kingdom culture is because we are in great need to practice the presence of God in order to practice His Kingdom rule in the earth. World-In . . . World-out . . . What you sow . . . Is what you reap . . . seed time - harvest time. As long as the earth remains, there will be seed time and harvest.

What Adjustment needs to happen?

Our answer can be found in Mephibosheth, King Saul's grandson.

Remember King David went looking for an heir of King Saul. He sought out the order of God for inheritance. When he found Mephibosheth, Saul's wounded (emotionally and physically crippled grandson, he invited and carried him to his place of honor. This is the challenge for the Body of Christ. Those in present leadership must hear the wind of the Spirit to seek out and empower those who have been assigned leadership and anointing in this 11th hour.

Those called must unlike Mephibosheth, step up to the King's table and embrace the responsibility and anointing.

We broke 300 treaties with the First Nation. The heart of man is selfish non caring. Civil Rights Act 40 years ago had a spirit of restitution now being seeing as a failed, they don't deserve nothing, everybody has rights . . .

Unfortunately as Christ followers who carry side arms because its safe and lawful also take on the heart of broken treaties and Civil Rights non responsiveness. For the most part these broken promises are to the advantage of our White brothers. But the enemy of our soul is not prejudice and he hates all Christ followers. He chooses to bring injury to us through one another. The answer is the prevailing agape that is required to silence his weak guns.

I believe if we do like David and seek out those who have been dethroned from their ordained position, healing will occur in the Body of Christ that will spill over into the enclaves of urban, suburban, and rural America. In Mephibosheth's case, he was out of position for a season by God's design. God set the time for it to be restored. When are we going to follow the wind of the Spirit to restore what Father has assigned? David himself knew about rejection. Remember his Father rejected him and had him tending sheep when the prophet was coming to Jessie's home to anoint the new king. Jessie had the anointed (on purpose) out of alignment to receive the blessing because Jessie was ashamed of his past. David was born out of order and Jessie didn't want the Prophet to get in his business.

Could it be our White brothers, out of shame, have put the anointed men and women of God to menial task in Kingdom assignments. David wasn't threatened by Mephibosheth. David received his position from God and was fully persuaded to his identity. One is only threatened and keeps others down when uncertainty clouds identity. The prophet didn't make David. The prophet only told David who he was. David needed a context for what he knew on the inside. All reality must be confirmed, "Peter, who do men say that I am."

Interesting to note that Father chose to protect his anointed King by barbarians. All things that we wouldn't do . . . God does without hesitation. We would choose those who have been to Bible College or son of a preacher. To be honest and we must in the 11th hour . . . the ungodly are watching this display of foolishness. They know that the 11th hour on Sunday morning has been the most racist hour in our nation under God's banner.

But remember this is the 11th Hour . . . the Church of our Lord is starting to look more transethnic, cross-culture, and racially undivided than ever. This is a glorious time to be a son or daughter of the most high God. Our White brothers must release what they have been holding on to (fear). . . our brothers and sisters of color must embrace what has been released by Father - forgiveness.

Those of color must release forgiveness and accept the new responsibility in the 11th Hour. They must come with forgiveness in heart and upon lips. They are in the place of creating an atmosphere of unity and blessing . . . Why?

They can choose to hit back after broken treaties and civil rights laws or bless by forgiving and allowing the Lord to restore 7 times what the enemy has stolen, remembering that the goodness of the Lord addeth no sorrow.

RECAP

The wealth transfer is waiting for our hearts to align to the 11th Hour. Our White brothers don't have to stop being Kings, they only have to be confident that in the 11th Hour Kings don't rule but the King of Kings sets a time for all things to be restored as He has ordained. He protected their anointing with the uncommon, now it's your turn to protect the anointing which is uncommon to this culture . . . the least of these. You must go and find them and put them in their God ordained position in the 11th Hour. And you know what this requires.

Men and women of color humble yourselves and forgive and receive the grace to lead by serving.

Your wounds are what paves the way for the lost to come into the Kingdom. Your choice to restore

and remove shame from your White brothers creates an atmosphere of hope for the lost who are ashamed of their past. The lost are brothers and sisters who need to know Daddy. Your wound of rejection is known to all; that's what makes you responsible in this 11th Hour to the nations. You must be prepared to go to the neighborhoods and nations. You are now the NN Army.

With this in order Father will transfer the wealth. The world will rejoice when the godly are in charge but the godly must be in charge not the religious. Here's the religious litmus test. If this citing doesn't move you to conviction, then there's a religious root that only the Holy Spirit can reveal. Conviction is the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He comes as a Coach not a cheerleader. He comforts and confronts. Sin should not be comfortable nor common among Christ followers.

Father is healing me of anger and resentment. I am an African American Christ follower full of gratitude to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and the Body of Christ who have loved me and ministered to me along this pathway of inner healing and restoration. Let's go forth boldly into His throne then into the kingdom's of this world and demonstrate the Kingdom of God in the earth as it is in heaven.

Favor to you . . . we can do it!

What Time Is It?

2010-05-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Dr. Joseph Umidi challenged me today to consider how I tell time. Father looks at time in a different measure. It made me think about clock instruments. Khronos time uses circular instruments whether analog or digital. However, stopwatch as illustrated has fixed points of time measuring beginning and ending. Interesting, even though this instrument is available, I didn't consider it as a clock; until I went through images in my USH library.

Observation: The scriptures says that when the Gospel is preached to every nation the end will come. Pastor Joseph stated today that mission experts say that task will be complete by 2019. Could it be that the measure of Christ is all around us but we need to be looking at the accurate measures.

Father controls the beginning and ending of time. So let's observe on the 31st of May, as indicated in window of stopwatch, Memorial Day. We want to remember the cost of freedom that has been paid by men and women of this country . . . could it be we have been preserved as a nation for the purpose of becoming a people and nation from which the Gospel would be preached from our shores to the nations until every tongue has heard the Good News? Could it be . . . Selah?

PROPHETIC NOTE

Whose hand is holding the watch? Hands of a person of color . . . African American.
What's the revelation you get? In the last days, the first shall be last and the last shall be first.

July 4, 2009 this announcement was made in the belly of our nation (click link)
http://urbanstockhouse.blogspot.com/2009/09/first-nation.html

"Don't criticize a man unless you have first walked in his shoes, if you've walked in them, offer him hope for his journey and walk with him until he gets it."

PROCESS

Ungodly beliefs by both current and newly assigned leaders must be repented of and receive inner healing and restoration. This is a time of healing . . . prerequisite to TRANSFORMATION. Demonstration is the fruit of transformation. The mountains of Media, Entertainment, Family, Religion, Economics, Education, and Politics must bow down to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company producing culturally relevant and inspirational stock photography. In addition, we producing positive life photo-media campaigns for corporate, faith-based, non-profit, and municipal clients.

Walking out the Dream . . .

2010-05-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

Life has a way of getting our attention. Urban Stock House is a simple stock photography supplier. We attempt to capture images that are everyday but angled from a POV that we may not normally integrate into our living.

Shoes . . . we all (most of us) wear them. Each shoe has a story . . . a dream they carry. Shoes tell us a lot about the "Dream Maker" wearing them. What does your size 11 say about your dream?

Keep walking out your dream . . .we need to see it.

CONVERGENCE

2010-03-30T08:15:00.000-07:00

There's a point in our lives where everything comes together. During this season all of the little things, intangibles, obvious, not so obvious, sweat, and unexplainable favor form an outcome of delight.
It's called CONVERGENCE.

This is an indicator of God's presence and persistence on our behalf. Be encouraged - rain or shine - let Him know . . . you're glad He's got your back. Life is great with and in Him. Remember, you can do it.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life attitude messages. All photography on this blog is property of Urban Stock and available for licensing.

Are You Angry Too?

2010-03-23T17:26:00.000-07:00

This is an illustration. Actually this student, Tairaceo, is a whiz in math. He is coached by Ms Jackson, "Teacher of the Year", a genius and an extremely gifted teacher. He forced himself to put incorrect numbers for the sake of this illustration. Thanks to you both.

Today I photographed Tairaceo and other students from St. Helena. No, it's not a private school but rather a public elementary school of a little more than 300 students in Berkley, a community of about 6,000 in Norfolk, VA. My observation . . . high expectations with focus, care, accountability, and teachable: parents, students, teachers, and administration always yield A+ outcomes. We'll be hearing more about this campus and their life skilled, character esteemed, and academic achieving graduates in decades to come. Well done Mrs. Hodges . . . Principal by principle.

Why should you and I be angry? Just one observation . . . when I took my ACT and SAT tests in 1971, no calculators were allowed. Why in 2010 are calculators allowed? Question . . . can students not calculate without a calculator? Do we know what this calculated observation means? Are we too busy to make simple observations like this?

I am angry with myself for keeping quiet about this foolishness. It's on me - NOT QUIET any longer.
Join me an countless others that are taking the "Dream Revolution" to the streets through our classrooms.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life attitude messages. All photography on this blog is property of Urban Stock and available for licensing.

Dream Shadow

2010-03-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Sometimes our dreams seem to be in the shadow. Others are always watching us walk out our dream. We just don't know who is watching. Our struggle often times is what encourages others to stay in the Dream lane. Danger always is lurking in the dream lane. Most of the danger is within us. You'd be surprised how many protectors of the dreams are sent by Father. Protectors we don't often recognize or sometimes embrace. Coach Williams calls them "angels on the path."

A West Virginia dear friend of mine (Todd - happens to be my Pastor) says we need "Ranger Buddies." Whenever God calls us to a task, He always sends us out 2 by 2. In the above photograph (click on it), you see a man that looks a little different than most around him. What the photograph doesn't show is he had a Ranger Buddy with him that day. I know because I photographed them both in other frames. I call him Delightful Dan, he is Lead Pastor at Providence New Life.

I can see one has to be intentional in this aspect of our faith walk. I note I have failed in this area. However, recovery is always on the menu with Father God . . . with lots of gravy.

Let's get back in the Dream lane. Others are watching. They are counting on us to finish well. We can do it.

DREAM Bullies

2010-03-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

Dream Bullies come into our lives by permission. The DreamWeaver allows them to penetrate for their benefit and ours. They benefit because their comfort zone is challenged. They want the Dream to slow down don't be so radical . . . it's not time . . . can't you wait . . . you're crazy.

The Dream Bully is fearful and they project this onto the Dreamer. Of course they are aware of what's occurring. That's why the Dreamer must know who He represents. The Dream is Father's. He's the author and finisher of the Dream. The Dreamer must never compromise the Dream . . . even though it may cost you your comfort zone . . . The Bully is challenged with the seed of the Dreamer. They will never be the same. The truth has busted into their comfort zone and they must contend with the truth - Jesus Christ.

The Dream sets us free - freedom is doing what I am created to do and be not doing what I WANT to do (be comfortable stay in my comfort zone). Comfort zone living is selfish and is perpetutated in our 7 Mountains - Family, Economic, Educational, Religious, Political, Media, and Entertainment.

Don't get caught in the comfort zone, a generation can die there and never reach the Land of Promise. Too much has been paid for us to occupy and and advance the Land of Promise.

YOU HAVE A DREAM . . . what is it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBa55sDTIiA&feature=PlayList&p=C8156D90D8B05355&index=28

3Cs to Birth Your Dream

2010-02-27T19:53:00.000-08:00

Every now and then, someone says what your're experiencing, thinking, and feeling. It's a chairos moment.

Father is elevating our dreams. This is His time. We are all so much closer than we think. He's sending angels along the path, in the words of Coach Elwood Williams. Listen to these words in this video and become more expectant. Romans 8:32.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZpcRemufO4

Visit the Dream Community at www.dreamspiration.net and become a confidant.

You’re invited to join this movement in the marketplace.

Whether a buyer, library contributor, or model, you

can make a quality difference in the hearts and

minds of the marketplace.

We believe that given the opportunity to move from good to best most people and corporate entities would say YES. With this tenant we’ve established the TVC Community. We’re extending to all vendors and clients the opportunity to join

this movement with a YES vote. The HOW is simple . . .

HOW?

Buyers . . .

Choose any of our culturally distinct and

inspirational stock photos and proceeds of

your purchase support Transformational Life Messages

on urban campuses in the U.S. and streets

of developing communities.

Library Contributors . . .

Receive compensation while empowering

youth, urban and developing communities with

life giving imagery and campaigns.

Models . . .

Corporate, non-profits, faith-based and

families can have photos included in USH library

and receive compensation or have

royalties donated to support Transformational

Life Messages on urban campuses

and marketplace plazas.

WHY?

Let’s Stop the BULLY

When we use our intellectual, relational,

technological and buying capital as a lifestyle of Transformation, we begin to see qualitative results in our communities. We stop the BULLY of unacceptable academic performance, jailed youth, gang

violence, negative birth rate in African Community, fear, doubt, unbelief, and . . .

Yes, you still purchase or produce visually authentic photography

with the best production values your capital can buy or earn. We’re all getting the picture - with only 1,070 words.

We’re sold!

SAINTS' . . . Saint turns injury into a sweet Cajun Delicasy - VICTORY!

2010-02-22T15:40:00.000-08:00

Like Joseph, Drew Breeze had to have an injury to be in the right place at the right time. Father God is in and present at all of our disappointments and injury. Keeping our eyes on Him is the key to VICTORY. What's your Super Bowl? You're closer than you think.

Urban Stock House . . . About Us

2010-02-20T16:30:00.000-08:00

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. USH produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography. In addition, USH designs photo-media (still photography, motion, web, and tabletop book publishing integrated) campaigns for corporate, small-business, advertising, editorial, and faith-based clients.

USH’s distinctive in the marketplace is underlined by the value that its visual content products and services exist to create character driven communication for the marketplace.

Secondly, USH joins a growing community of businesses that follow the model of
Social Entrepreneurs.

“A social entrepreneur identifies and solves social problems on a large scale. Just as business entrepreneurs create and transform whole industries, social entrepreneurs act as the change agents for society, seizing opportunities others miss in order to improve systems, invent and disseminate new approaches and advance sustainable solutions that create social value.

Unlike traditional business entrepreneurs, social entrepreneurs primarily seek to generate social value rather than profits. And unlike the majority of non-profit organizations, their work is targeted not only towards immediate, small-scale effects, but sweeping, long-term change.” -The Heroes, PBS.org

"Social entrepreneurs are not content just to give a fish or teach how to fish. They will not rest until they have revolutionized the fishing industry."
Bill Drayton, CEO, chair and founder of Ashoka

Community Empowerment: USH contributes a percentage of company profits to Canaan Productions, Inc. Canaan Productions, Inc. produces character and economic focused multi-media tools designed for youth, urban, and developing communities.

Our Dream

Through visual content production (stock photography) and distribution (campaigns) we intend to reshape the visual content landscape in the marketplace to reflect character driven communication that motivates the viewer from the inside out – rather than outside in .

Emerging Worship . . . "Transformational Cities"

2010-01-31T11:55:00.000-08:00

"There is a release of synergy as we partner with Heaven and merge our spheres as wll as our individual callings, anointings, and giftings. No one individual, church, business, or ministry is equipped to maneuver us into societal transformation, but we will find our ultimate purpose in partnership, not only with Heaven, but also with each other. God gave me a vision that highlighted the aspect of humility and partnership for the advancement that is coming in our cities in the nations."

-Emerging Worship by Roland Worton

It is here. The atmosphere has embraced the will of Father, that we might be one. This was the cry of Jesus to Father before He left. We will be one before He returns. As we approach Black History month, let us be mindful that all of creation is crying out of the sons of God to manifest or demonstrate the will of God or the works of God.

Let's with authenticity and intentionality begin building bridges between divided relationships, generational wounds, and theologically divided worshiping communities. Let's do it now. This month go to a worshiping community that is culturally distinct from yours. Embrace the differences of others and become more Kingdom sensitive. Let's Dream again . . . we can do it.

Pursuing . . . A God-Dream

2010-01-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

One trait of a God-Dream is that its capacity and process are greater than the carrier of the God-Dream. Jesus as our example chose 12 men to assist Him in fulfilling His God-Dream, that men and nations would come to know His Father.

Joel, my son, has a God-Dream. He wants to go to the Olympics as a volleyball athlete. He's only been playing organized sports for 18 months. In his second year his team won the league's championship competition in the Rec League. Joel, has had two outstanding coaches: Coach Rich and Coach Pat. Both men are extremely gifted coaches and humble men who love their players and families. Joel, couldn't have better. These men are committed to his character development and maximizing his gifting.

Along the way I noted Clash, his team, as a team elevated in a united WE focus. To be "we" focused one must have confidence in self and confident in those on the team. I've seen Joel grow in self-confidence and the team embracing his confidence while elevating theirs.

Coach Rich and Pat embraced Joel who had no experience but a God frame: lengthy, agile, disciplined, teachable, and eager athlete only waiting for patient empowering coaching.
Through these men I'm learning to be a better father and husband. Remember our God-Dream elevates all who are touched by our lives. We would be amazed at how this works.

My final thought . . . please go for your God-Dream. Please forgive us if we have not encouraged you or been nonchalant. It's not you; it's us. Somewhere along life's journey, we have strayed away from our God-Dream. We have developed a good lifestyle, rather than the "best". It's 2010 "the decade to win". Let's dream again . . . we can do it! Father God is waiting on us.

Please go to DreamSpiration Blog and post your dream at the site in post comment section. See my friend Sammy Ray Scaggs' book, DreamWeaver, on the site or go to his website: www.ps139dreamweaver.com to order this dynamic dream empowering book.

Thanks Joel for empowering daddy's dream - again.

Your dreaming partner - Dad

The FURNACE

2010-01-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

Well if you feel like you're in the furnace . . . you're not alone, Jesus is there with you. He's the Keeper of the God-Dream. Remember - litmus test of the dream is our ability to go ~~through~~ the fire. We don't get burned nor smell like smoke. We can do it . . . dream again.

DreamSpiration . . . "Where God-Dreams Do Come True"

2010-01-11T18:41:00.000-08:00

Here we go again. I want to announce a new photo-media project called DreamSpiration. DreamSpiration is a photo-media tribute dedicated to Coach Elwood Williams of Southside Boys and Girls club of Norfolk's Berkley community. This project will elevate your dream to reality. You will find dream resources to empower your dreams: books, entrepreneur curriculum for youth, and school assemblies. This site is a product of the media component of Project Sowing & Reaping, A School-Based Community Development Movement. See more about PSR at www.yesusa.com.

Enough for now, test launch date is January 15th, Martin Luther King's birthday. Website address will be announced on that date. Soft launch date is February 1, the beginning of Black History month. Full launch date is March 1.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with a positive life message.

DEPENDECE ON GOD . . . submitted by Carol Dixon

2010-01-07T02:09:00.000-08:00

Carol Dixon

I want to announce a new contributor to Life in Session, Carol Dixon. Carol is a long time friend of mine. We have worked together on various visual content projects over a twenty plus year span. She currently serves as the Assistant to President/Board Liaison of Regent University. Carol's contributions will come out of the epicenter of gifting - inspired NOW words from Father God. We may find them in devotions, as submitted below. Or she may release words from her journal, perhaps even words she receives while working during the day.

Liaison: communication or cooperation that facilitates a close working relationship between people or organizations.

NOTE: Carol serves in the natural in the capacity of connecting people and systems to optimum delivery. See how her natural gifting has a spiritual expression as well? A man/woman's gift makes room for them. The GIFT makes room. The gift is Father's implant into us for a reflection-consideration-attention to Him. This can be translated into the word glory.

However they come, we'll receive them from Father and embrace His loving care and talk time. In advance Carol, thanks for deepening our lives and ability to hear the NOW Word from Father.

What is a NOW word?

Now is defined as 0-5 seconds by Coach Al Hollingsworth of BOSS The Movement.

This is God's direct instruction for this moment for the hearer. These are words that come as announcements. Often these are words released to breakthrough the unconscious (where all life memories are stored); the subconscious (where the decisions, beliefs, and mind-sets brought about by life's experiences are stored; and the conscious (where one acts and responds to the world around them). These announcements or words are designed to impact patterns that need confirmation, correction, or conclusion.

Why is a Now word important?

It defeats the plans and strategies of the enemy and our flesh. The NOW word gives us faith (faith comes by hearing) to stand against the lies and deceptions attempting to crowd our mind, will, and emotion ultimately aimed at derailing our Kingdom destination.

___________________________________________

Dependence on God

"For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end." Hebrews 3:14

My people, heed My words; yes, do not walk carelessly, nor lay out your own paths on which to travel. You cannot know what lies in the distance, nor what adversity you may encounter tomorrow. So walk closely with Me, that you may be able to draw quickly upon My aid. You need Me; and no matter how well developed your faith is or how mature is your growth in grace, never think for a moment that you need My support any less. The truth is that you need it even more. For I shelter the newborn from many of the trials and tests I permit to confront those who are growing up in spiritual stature. You cannot grow unless I bring into your lives these proving and testing experiences.

So hold more firmly to My hand as you journey on in your Christian walk. Trust not in your own increasing strength, for truly, it is not your strength but rather My strength within you that you feel. You are as vulnerable to the treachery of the enemy and as frail as ever; but your knowledge of Me has deepened, and because of this your trust in Me should come easier.

Move forward with courage and confidence; but always allow Me to walk ahead and choose the right path.

From: Come Away My Beloved

January 6, 2010

Submitted by Carol Dixon

Wealth is caught & taught . . . Who's your Banker?

2009-12-29T21:16:00.000-08:00

We Are The Reason . . .

2009-12-25T02:33:00.000-08:00

TODAY IS MEANT FOR US FOR HIS PLEASURE

Thank you Jesus for volunteering to come into the earth in a three piece suit: faith, hope, and love.

Today you remind me that you agreed with your Father, now my Father, to cancel my debt. You put aside who you were for 33.5 years to pay my infinite tribute - you always make good investments. Therefore, I realize the value of my life is not who I was born to . . . not my skill set . . . nor my purpose and destiny.

My value is sonship. Royalty redeemed royalty . . . Father sent my brother (Jesus) to get me out of a pit. Unlike Joseph's brothers who put him in a pit. They didn't have the courage to kill him nor the courage to live with him. How often have I handled my conduit of blessing and destiny in the same manner?

The lack of courage is FEAR. The opposite of fear is LOVE. Perfect love cast out fear . . . love always believes the BEST. Father so thought the BEST of the world that He gave his only begotten son . . .

This Christmas Jesus, I embrace your birth with this startling revelation, WE ARE THE REASON for THE SEASON. You came for us . . . the prodical sons. He who has seen you has seen Father. Thank you Lord for thinking and believing the best in me, even when I'm in and at my worst.

Focused,

Ronald

HOW ARE YOU DOING COMMERCE?

2009-12-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

by WAR - BARTER & TRADE - CREATIVITY

We choose commerce by CREATIVITY!

There are three ways of doing Commerce: 1) By War - where you take what you want by force. This is the reason for much of the devastation around the world. We are offering an alternative method - by teaching and promoting business based of God’s principles of business; 2) By Barter and Trade - This is promoted and encouraged on our website and is a very good way of doing business in this "cash poor" economy. The biggest problem is fairness in trading equal values. Our one year goal is to start a barter Club to regulate and co-ordinate barter between Club members; 3) By Creativity - This is our primary goal for a business model. It uses our God given dreams vision and ideas to birth businesses, ministries and fruitful lives.

http://www.bossbusinessnetwork.com

Urban Stock House is cause founded visual content company that produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social multi-media campaigns for corporate, advertising, editorial, faith-based, non-profit and small business clients.

U R B A N I T Y . . .

2009-12-02T20:15:00.000-08:00

Rev. Bill Brown

Bill Brown, an apostle to the city, from Trinity Christian Community of New Orleans coined this word today. My mentor declared that Jesus loves the city - URBANITY. He said, " Pray for a city like a new convert and Father will give you the city."

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company producing culturally disctinct stock photography and social multi-media campaigns for corporate, education, faith-based, advertising, editorial, non-profit and small business clients.

Taco . . . First Nation Style

2009-11-28T13:39:00.000-08:00

YUMMY

First Nation taco is a true delight . . . yep, it's authentic.

Making a difference . . . Project Sowing & Reaping

2009-11-27T20:42:00.000-08:00

Now is the time to experience new models of Kingdom living in the marketplace. Project Sowing & Reaping is one such project. Simply put, these Kingdompreneurs are social entrepreneurs with a faith-based focus designing creative initiatives. One such effort is called the YESUSA Dream House. Can you imagine a smart house hi tech home built in the inner-city in 4 - 6 weeks, paid off (with all debt in 10-15 years) and families given skills and support to turn an investment portfolio into $100K without changing one's family budget. Now that's something to shout about. See more about this effort at www.yesusa.com

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media campaigns for corporate, editorial, advertising, faith-based, small business and non-profit entities.

Happy Thanksgiving . . . Thank you First Nation

2009-11-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

This is First Nation month. Fitting, because of this nation we have a nation now called the United States of America. This day of celebrating Thanksgiving, we should especially honor this nation for their embracing foreigners looking for refuge.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media productions for corporate, education, faith-based, advertising, and editorial clients.

Does Jesus still heal . . .Thanksgiving time?

2009-11-24T10:43:00.000-08:00

Miraculous Healing for Alliance Man

April 7, 2009

Editor’s note: The following testimony of healing comes from Dan Kidd, a member of Glenview Alliance Church in Glen Rock, Pennsylvania. Dan, 46, had a stroke five years ago that took away his speech function. But all that changed recently when God miraculously intervened with His divine touch.
Five years ago, I suffered a stroke and lost my ability to speak, forcing me to communicate with a dry-erase board. Sunday, March 29, marked almost five years of praying for God’s divine healing in my life. As the youth worship band sang “How Great is Our God,” I struggled to think through the words in my head. Suddenly, I felt a “presence” or wave flow through me. I starting mouthing the words, then verbalizing them, and sound was coming out of my mouth. The first words I audibly sang were “How Great is Our God.” I began crying and walked outside, knowing my speech was returning at that very moment.
Some family and friends followed me out and asked what was wrong. I told them on my dry erase board that something just happened during the service, and my speech was coming back. I asked them to sing something-I wanted to see if I could follow along. With each song they sang, my words became clearer. I knew at that moment God had healed me.
We went back inside the church, and during the closing song, I walked up to the front and asked the pastor if I could say something from the pulpit. I said, “Hi, this is Dan. I am back.” I shared with everyone what had just happened and thanked them for praying for me for so long. As I told them that this is truly a miracle, I held up my dry erase board and said, “One more thing.” Then I broke the board in half.
Since then, I have been to three doctors, including a neurosurgeon, all of whom said that my healing is a true miracle. They have never seen anything like this before.
Many times I cried to the Lord, vowing that if He ever returned my speech, I would tell everyone and give Him the glory. I thank all who prayed and never gave up on me, and I give praise to God for what He has done. How great is our God!
Read more stories of divine healing in the February 2009 issue of alife. Also, look for “God’s Healing Arsenal” by Paul King, to be published in the July issue of alife.
(Story from THE ALLIANCE, Living the Call Together)

Urban Stock House is a cause founded Visual Content Company that produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media projects for corporate, advertising, editorial, faith-based, education, and small business clients.

FALL . . . . Fell

2009-11-24T08:54:00.000-08:00

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visua content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media campaigns for corporate, faith-based, government, educational, advertising, and editorial clients.

Jesus . . . Is He a Captalist (entrepreneur) or Kingdomist (kingdompreneur)? Part 1

2009-11-22T16:39:00.000-08:00

How do I know which one I am?

This is an easy question to answer. How so?

1) When you put a deal together, do you first see how much financial sense it makes? 2) How much money or security will you make in the transaction. 3) How it can help, empower, bring salvation to people at the lowest cost?

This is capitalism to the core.

KINGDOM

1) Father what are you saying you want to accomplish in this financial opportunity? 2) Who and where are the least of these you desire to bring higher and empower to release your glory (you show up) for men to see? 3) Lord, show me how to decrease and you increase in this transaction.

Let's be honest, unfortunately sometimes Christians are attempting to be good stewards by following the capitalist model. We handle our personal and corporate finance by the system of "In God We Trust" rather than in Jesus' name. We do recently know they are attempting to strike "In God We Trust from our currency. Do we really get a clear picture? One can quickly identify that capitalism is a pagan system not KINGDOM. Why? It operates on the premise of supply and demand. Do you understand that paradigm?

It's saying - Father ran out of stuff to create for everyone, so He needs man to balance the scale by creating an economy to control the supply by price. That works if you're in the 3 percentile that controls money in the capitalistic system. That's why we lost $21.8% value of our assets based wealth within the last year. We're now second to England in national asset-based wealth. Africa has always been and still remains as wealthiest continent in natural resources. But the Kingdom system says GOD owns the cattle on a thousand hills. This is simply saying Father owns it ALL. He doesn't need our finite fearful system of exchange to fund and supply His Kingdom. The fish at the sea for taxes is our model.

We have funded missions on the same capitalistic system. We say a soul cost xxx dollars to save. The less it cost the better stewards we are . . .

Let's look at this faulty thinking.

Missionary A is leading one soul to Christ a day = 365 souls a year.

Missionary B is leading one soul to Christ a year = 1 soul a year, but trains that one to do the same in one year. If you follow this pattern all the way out to 30 years, one a year's production is almost equal to one a day at about 12 years. The problem for the capitalistic Christian is that's too long of a rate of return - ROI. This impatience is consistent with our refinancing or buying new homes every 5 years. Changes local assemblies whenever, "I don't like what the church is doing". We are breaking covenant marriages at a 50% rate.

A little test . . .

Which one do you honestly think would give more honor to Father God? Yep the 365 . . . Why? ROI, return on investment. Here's the problem. The rate of return - ROI is too short for a Kingdom measure. Kingdom time is frequently a generation (40 years) to see results. Father took 42 generations to release Jesus into an earth suit. Jesus' ROI in his twelve disciples in 3 years is staggering. Perhaps Kingdom investment has two critical items to address. The seed and the sower of the seed must be compatible the Kingdom message and method.

Capitalism doesn't require character to be attached or related to the seed/money.

THE GOLDEN NUGGET

We perpetuate this capitalistic system in the Biblical Model of missions: Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the Uttermost parts of the earth. We teach indigenous Christ followers of Bangladesh, capitalistic values to measure their success in the Kingdom. Why? That's what is done in Jerusalem or U.S.
They carry this out now in their culture (their Jerusalem) and send out missionaries with a capitalistic value rather than a Kingdom value.

In this scenario, the Christ followers in Bangladesh wouldn't cross-culture to reach groups within their Jerusalem. This is called E1-A. They maintain an ethnocentric style ministry. What they do would generate good results, but the more than you can imagine factor could not be approached. The healing and city transformational aspect of the Gospel is minimized. Why? Kingdom living takes a whole Gospel to a whole city. We become apostles and Christ followers of cities not our local assemblies or denominations.

Capitalism must control supply, set-up distribution systems, determine value, and then replicate this sequence.

Another Kingdom example, remember when the men were working in the field. The late comer was paid the same as those who had worked all day. The earlier workers were angry. Why? They earned what they agreed to. The late comer got the same - what he agreed to.

Kingdom's economy is set by Father not a governing system, be it capitalism, socialism, or communism.
Any system that we give priority or preference to in lieu of the Kingdom of God is a no-no. All systems are only conduits for the Kingdom to manifest. The system is the carrier not the PRODUCT.
Mary was the carrier not the PRODUCT. We worship Jesus not Mary.

Do we see the pattern . . . we want it ALL and we want it right NOW?

I believe we are deceived and have produced an additive strategy with a selfish (let me see it and have the glory) attitude. The truth is in the pudding. The Church of America has been self-focused, self-serving, and self-giving in our finances.

"Because you say, 'I am rich, and have gotten riches, and have need of nothing;' and don't know that you are the wretched one, miserable, poor, blind, and naked; I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, that you may become rich; and white garments, that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes, that you may see." Rev 3: 17-18

We give less than 1% of 1% of ALL money collected to reach those who have never heard of our Lord - 2 billion people.

You want to hear something even more strange. You would think that those who give the most (percentage of income) would be made captains over Kingdom funds. I believe Jesus identified that as the Publican and Widow story. Research tells us that the poor give MORE (percentage - not how much you give but how much do you have left over after you give, that's what Father measures. When is the last time we've had the poor serve as Trustees over Father's money? We tend to do it the capitalistic style, just like in the 2012 movie. Those who had the money got to buy tickets to escape the end of the world.

How do we correct this thinking? It's quite simple. Spend time with Father and be honest about ourselves, circumstances, and expect Him to speak. Kingdom, we have access to the throne - capitalism, we pay someone to hear from God for us.

I wonder if that's why less than 1% of 1% gets to those reaching the 2 billion who have never heard of Jesus Christ. I believe we will all have some surprises on Judgment Day.

If McDonald's funding strategy looked like that, they would be out of business. They are in the business of selling hamburgers. If they were giving 1% of 1% of revenues

to take the number one position in fast foods, they would be out of business.

Father is doing some great things in the Body of Christ in the U.S. and around the world. It's found in BALANCE, letting the lesser things die, so the greater things can live.

Let's be willing to get new wine skins and receive new wine. Let's join Father in what He's doing in the earth.

Let's leave the familiar and embrace the DREAM . . . there's one deep on the inside of each of us. Father planted in there and timed its activation upon our birth into the earth.

It starts with a relationship with the Dream Giver, Father God. He's willing and able to fulfill His Dream within us.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. All photography in Life in Session Cafe' is owned by Urban Stock House and available for licensing.

What's Your Dream?

2009-11-20T21:03:00.000-08:00

CURTIS . . . . He's Living His Dream

Curtis Keys, owner of Ripple Studios, is truly living his Dream. Don Roberts just did a voice over at Ripples for a multi-media project I am doing. Don was smoothed as sand on the dunes, but Curtis is like oil on a race track. He makes one glide with creativity and focus with EXTREME skill.

How do you know if you're living your dream?

There's a good chance that those around you are beginning or in the process of living their dream. Becky, Curtis' mother in covenant, is finalizing her dream of producing her first CD. Becky is an extremely gifted vocalist and radiant artist.

Working with gifted professionals like Curtis and Don is a treat indeed. Thanks guys for making this project Sweeeeet.

Urban Stock House is visual content company producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media campaigns.

Let Justice Roll Down . . . The Shift is on

2009-11-17T19:54:00.000-08:00

"God says, "Athletes are about to arise and penetrate the Kingdom of darkness. Economists are about to come forth from young men and young women, and the African American people shall rise up and say, 'We have been given the honor and the privilege to go into the marketplace and to build pulpits, and to bring people to Christ,' and so it shall be that I shall put My mantle upon this nation," says the Spirit of God."
Kim Clement

DREAMS . . . New Generation

2009-11-14T08:47:00.000-08:00

NEW GENERATION OF DREAMERS

They are Kingdompreneurs . . . believing to see. They have counted the costs. These Kingdompreneurs are like Nehemiah. They are taking their skills and influence to the marketplace to rebuild the walls. And guess what, the 7 Mountains are ready to respond. This is the time to press in and see the glory of our Father cover the earth as the waters cover the sea.

We can do it, Dream again!

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media campaigns for corporate, small business, educational, non-profit, faith-based, advertising, and editorial clients.

JUBILEE . . . 4Rs

2009-11-13T16:56:00.000-08:00

Dreams . . . They Bring Jubilee

As we declare the year of Jubilee there's an implication of restoration. Restoration (Father already had this plan in place before Adam hit the seen . . ."Before the foundation Christ was slain.") began in the Garden. It's the same location that dominion began. It is Father's heart that all creation be restored to the intent of its original OWNER, God Himself. This intent was creating us to be in fellowship with Him. If we walk in true fellowship with Him we are poised to do the same with man. Out of true fellowship comes: relocation - reconciliation - restoration - redistribution.

Restoration implies two at odds. Reconciliation is a heart matter. Restoration is the fleshing out of the heart - walking out our faith. Reconciliation is the CROSS - Restoration is the TOMB. Living out of the tomb experience means there is reality or manifestation of this incredible gift of grace in the forgiveness of our sins. This reality compels me to a life of a disciple . . . disciplined to be a restorer of the breech. My first domain of restoration is confessing and restoring my personal issues as revealed by the Holy Spirit.

This drifts into inner healing where our souls dominate our flesh and spirit. Our prosperity (normal Kingdom living) is directly related to our soul . . . "I wish you would prosper and be in good health even as your soul prospers." The disciple must DECIDE daily to hear the Holy Spirit and make adjustments in our thinking, feeling, and cultured tanks of reference. Our soul is only disciplined by a renewed mind. Daily doses of the word in reading, mediation, and memory is the out growth of studying to show ourselves approved (not by man but by Father). This is not an online class but rather an inline lifestyle - ETERNAL LEARNERS.

The DREAM is that without restoration there can be no Jubilee in the earth. A function of Jubilee is acknowledging that everything belongs to God. Hence, we manifest this by returning to others what Father had deemed to give. It's called forgiveness (debt - generational abuse - broken treaties (300 to the First Nation by the United States. By the way that's every treaty made.). We have left off the fleshing out of our repentance and restoration in the Body of Christ. Could it be that our nation is being judged by our lack of being disciples. That's good news because the change then happens in Father's House not the White House. The decision that must be made is to become disciples and not voters. For in Father's Kingdom there is only Theocracy no Democracy. The disciple doesn't vote, he only says, "Yes master, your will be done not mine." The American Christ follower is challenged greatly by this truth. So the question then becomes what are we modeling as we take the Gospel to the nations . . . are we spreading democracy or theocracy.

If we check the fruit, we might find the answer to where is the Jubilee. Gen. M Arthur called for disciples (missionaries in WW II) we sent democrats (soldiers).

That's why our evangelism is closet style - our dominion is closet style - our presence is closet style.

Transformation means there is evidence - restoration (relationships) and redistribution (stuff - land, wealth, repositioning, etc.) put back in original and intended order. Could it be that the lost are awaiting a demonstration of the Gospel - restoration and redistribution to begin with us, the Bride? Jesus had an exit plan (40 days after his resurrection, He was out of here). What is our exit plan in our mission initiatives (with evidence of restoration and redistribution)?

Jeremiah was quite ticked when the Jews were enslaving one another with gangster usury-interest.

Remember David the man after God's own heart . . . David understood covenant and redistribution. That's what compelled him to look for Mephibosheth. He was committed to bring what belonged to Saul's lineage (not his good bud Jonathan). Remember Saul was out to do him in. As the Body of Christ we really have to deal with this issue of restoration and redistribution. We've got to get it right
. . . and we all know it. Guess what, we're going to get it right . . . it's part of being spotless.

Our faith needs to be verified. It will only be verified, if we accept this process of becoming a disciple. May Father's favor continue to give us unlimited grace to become disciples and followers of our Lord.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media for corporate, education, small business, faith-based, government, advertising, and editorial clients.

November Nor'easter . . .

2009-11-12T14:14:00.000-08:00

DREAMS . . . when storms come.

Today the November Nor'easter blew through . . . blowing through. The landscape of my backyard is being rearranged. The Dream is like the bench . . . it withstands the storms. The chair could not withstand the wind gust.

Principle

After the storms of our lives, what's still standing? Chances are whatever it is . . . that's the dream.

I Think I'll Have Some Coffee . . .

2009-11-12T02:33:00.000-08:00

Dreams, where do they have their beginning?

A thought, "I think I'll have some coffee." The coffee bean has always been in the earth. Then it was cultivated and marketed. Made its way to our local docks in bags. Headed to our location of pickup to be prepared or already a simmering brew.

The Dream that's in our thoughts and accepted - is activated immediately and everything like the coffee bean begins to come aligned to our having occasion to experience the dream. Things present come from our thoughts because Father has already prepared them before we need them.
Care means anticipate a need and satisfy it before the need manifest - Father cares for us. While we were sinners Christ died for us. Jesus paid the price for my pride, fear, impurity, and multitude of other sins before I was born. He didn't wait until I got everything spiritually or politically correct.

He simply said, "I think I'll take care of Ronald's sin." It was done. Now He had to live out that dream, but I benefit today just as you have the opportunity. I'll drink to that - kiwi juice!

God's Dream has been in us forever. We have always been with God. He simply chose a time to put us in earth suits and give us an expression in time in the earth. Just like He did our Lord Jesus.
Jesus' dream is for us to know Father.

A QUALITY OF OUR DREAM

It ultimately leads others to know Father. This fact alone is the great motivation to go for the Dream, it will draw others to Father God and then to eternal life. Let's do the dream . . . we can do it . . . He will help us.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media campaigns for corporate, small business, faith-based, education, advertising, government and editorial clients.

DREAMS . . . How do I reach my dream?

2009-11-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

CORRIDOR PRINCIPLE

Gilda recently encouraged me to get going with my dream - speak into this generation through Dream based multi-media assemblies. Today I received the same word from SAM, a dear friend of ours.

So what's the Corridor Principle have to do with this process? Well, I learned through BOSS that as I move toward my Dream, Father draws to me relationships, strategies, divine appointments, and resources to complete the task.

Key Activator - just get started, don't need a Mercedes, a VW will do just fine. Father only ask for something to work with - our faith in action. BOSS The Movement is a great sustaining leadership training tool for all the Dreamers willing to move towards the dream. Coach and team will empower and untangle you. You can do it!

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography and social media campaigns for corporate, faith-based, small business, educational, advertising, and editorial clients.

DREAMS . . . can keep you up all night . . .

2009-11-10T01:09:00.000-08:00

INDICATOR . . . pumpkins are seasonal for me. It reminds me of fall - time of harvesting and seeding. Dreams allow us the joy of harvesting and seeding in the same season. We can see the up and down, favorable and not so favorable, sunshine and rain all as working for the dream.

The DREAM GIVER can give us this true perspective . . . it makes living continuously focused . . . no longer accepting the ordinary and familiar. We were made for the Dream of the DREAM GIVER.
What's your Dream?

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography for corporate, educational, small business, faith-based, advertising, and editorial clients.

DREAMS . . . Pathway to Transformation

2009-11-09T06:15:00.000-08:00

Dreams, come to connect us with the Dream Giver. What's your dream? It's never to late. The Dream is His gift or invitation to join Him in what He is doing. Become a prisoner of your dream to be free. Freedom is doing what I am supposed to do (my dream) rather than doing what I want to do - my thing.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography for corporate, educational, advertising, editorial, small business, and faith-based clients.

THE DREAM GIVER . . .

2009-11-07T13:40:00.000-08:00

This image was inspired by Bruce Wilkinson ( author of the title The Dream Giver - this is the book cover) in the context of the "Community of Dreams Summit" recently held in Virginia Beach, VA.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded culturally distinct and inspirational visual content company. We produce stock photography and social media campaigns with positive life messages.

Fun . . .

2009-11-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

Life gives us many pleasures. Gilda enjoys making afcans for family and friends.
It's her demonstration of love and FUN. Do a fun thing today . . . make Daddy smile.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography.

DREAMS . . . The Broken Zipper

2009-11-04T05:23:00.000-08:00

This morning and last night I was looking for a piece of luggage for my wife Gilda. Gilda joined me this morning 5:30am to intensify the search. Together we found nothing. However, there was one piece that I noticed last night had a broken zipper. I pointed it out to Gilda and she said, "there is definitely something on the inside". Our son, Reuel, was given permission to bring total disablement to the bag by destroying the zipper. Needless to say, there was the bag we were looking for . . . not one but two. Which meant Gilda could make a choice.

OBSERVATION

1. Searching for Dreams is like the missing luggage. Dreams are tucked away and need to be unpacked. We know where they are - We are familiar with them - We may have had some access to them in the past (thoughts, some degree of success, . . . )

2. Dreams require a willingness to bring total disablement to those life patterns, relationships, thinking, fears, lack of trust, past offensives, pleasures, finances, unforgiveness, etc. that are hiding the dream. The great news is that we KNOW the bag that the dream is hiding in.

3. We need dream partners. Reuel came in and was given permission to destroy the blockage. We had to be willing to give up any further utility of the broken zipper bag. It cannot be used for travel any longer.

PRINCIPLE

Dreams are close to us and identifiable. We must be willing to have dreams unpacked and identify trusted hands to bring total disablement to dream hindrances.

See this dream . . . may it inspire us all to unpack The Broken Zipper!

Click on elderly woman at link.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded culturally distinct and inspirational visual content company.
We produce stock photography for corporate, educational, faith-based, government, small business, advertising, and editorial clients.

TRUTH UP . . . Youth are waiting . . .

2009-10-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

They are always watching . . . they know adults better than the adults. What adults don't realize is they are God's zone of repentance.

What do you mean? Repentance is a change of my mind . . . changed mind means adjusted attitude (which impacts altitude). Attitude is the heart of a person coming in line with truth.

YOUTH are TRUTH Reactors.

They respond to the truth of our hearts - attitudes. "Go to bed", adults often make this announcement between 8pm and 11pm. The heart of this statement gets a reaction. The reaction (disrespectful response, silent opposition, slammed door, grandchildren that choose unhealthy families - a.k.a. gangs, lawmakers that devalue life by choosing abortion as a means of controlling ethnic balance and women's rights. These are only a few results when the zone of repentance is ignored.

Children grow to become youth to speak into the lives of adults when they are offended, neglected, appreciative, achieving, and looking for love. Father God uses the voice of those who are familiar to us. Why? He doesn't want strangers speaking into our lives with entrusted TRUTH that will bring transformation. (Jesus tells us the natural response of harden hearts . . . "a prophet is of no regard in his own household"). Jesus also said He couldn't do many miracles in His own hometown, because people kept seeing His youth (they grew up knowing this little guy) and would not believe.

Perhaps this revelation is hard to swallow. To reject our youth's observation is to reject God Himself.

Father God loves us so much, He will use obscured messengers . . . remember the donkey story?

Donkey speech is a serious consequence or circumstance that occurs to get our attention. Father loves us to much to allow us to go unchecked.

LESSON:

Listen to our youth . . . they are in pain. They don't like mommy and daddy not living together (even when they are occupying the same home). They are speaking the heart of Father God. We can choose the right way not popular or convenient path. Let's not silence the zone of repentance.

I am speaking as a father of six for 25 years . . . one who is learning to listen.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography. We design social media campaigns for corporate and non profit entities to prioritize values in the marketplace to yield optimum outcomes.

PRAYER . . . Young Black Men . . . . They're Crying for Help

2009-10-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

What are we listening to that will make us ready for divine appointments that Father has prepared for us to make Him known? WORD UP!

God's presence in the midst of a robbery (see video). . . The Lord has divine appointments for Christ followers.

Pressure always brings up what's on the inside. Sometimes we're surprised at what comes out.
Father always places us in dependent situations, so that our interdependent relationships with others encourages others to trust Father for more. Notice dependent on Father interdependent with others, what's missing?

~~INDEPENDENCE~~

The big lie . . .

The enemy loves this deceitful thinking, because then he can pick off the Christ follower. Do not be deceived . . . depend on Father and walk with others. When we follow this strategy, we'll be surprised to discover the King in us.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography.

Faith Like Potatoes . . .

2009-10-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

SEE IT . . . . I saw the movie "Faith Like Potatoes." I'm not a movie watcher, but our children love to see me cry and enjoy finding faith thrillers for dad. This is a faith thriller . . . you'll need to see it to believe it.

Here's POTATO PRINCIPLE

Harvest season sometimes is underground. The harvest is ready but you have to dig where you planted.

OBSERVATION: Unlike most items harvested: corn, tomatoes, cotton, etc, potatoes harvest but are underground out of view. One must dig underground where they were originally planted. The ground must be broken to harvest not just to plant.

Could it be our harvest is ready but just sitting waiting . . . Why? We've got to dig ONE more time.

Let's get our harvest! Others are watching and hoping it's a HUGE crop. BUMPER . . . .

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography for corporate, small business, non-profit, editorial, advertising, and faith-based clients.

Corporate Buyers . . . Stock Photography - Urban Stock House

2009-10-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

Can you guess which photo was used by Hewlett Packard and McDonald's corporation? USH has users from small business, non-profit, faith based, editorial, ad agencies, government, and Fortune 500. Culturally distinct and inspirational images are needed regardless of your company size.

Give us a call . . . we want to be your visual content partner. See you in the neighborhood!

Email us or call with correct answer and get a free Alex Haley poster while supply last. This collector's item was photographed by Ronald Atkinson on Mr. Haley's farm in Knoxville, TN. Photographed four months prior to his death; it may be the last formal portrait session he experienced.

urbanstockhuse@gmail.com
757.427.6091

USH Team
Your Visual Content Partner

Urban Stock House . . . . Culturally Distinct & Inspirational Stock Photograpny

2009-10-10T18:23:00.000-07:00

Who is Urban Stock House?

Urban Stock House is a cause-founded company that produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life attitude messages. In addition, we produce and distribute values-based campaigns in the marketplace for corporate, small business, municipal, and faith-based entities through the "transformational social entrepreneurial network".

We're creating a visual content atmosphere that begins to transform our cultural values into productive character and marketplace outputs. Let us serve you to make your next project credible and culturally relevant.

Ouch . . . . Healing Hands!

2009-10-10T08:06:00.000-07:00

Recently I injured my back. Oh, what pain shot through my body. Its been nine days since this incident. May I share my personal obersavation of PAIN - TRUE EVAULUATION - HEALING?

Pain . . . I have never known pain like this in 56 years. I could not bend over without great discomfort. new ways of getting in and out of bed, changing socks, traveling in car, and many more had to be learned.

True Evaluation . . . The evening before the incident I was encouraged along with others to pray for protection in the coming week. Little did I know that lifting a 5 gallon gas can would lead me to such an encounter with Father - Abba. It was while lying on my back with much time on my hands that I learned a valuable lesson regarding my relationship with Father.

What was the lesson? I haven't been trusting Him in the capacity that He desires. It's that simple. My healing would later reveal this in more detail.

Healing . . . After my work day was over, I remembered Gilda (my wife) was at the home of a masseuse. I called and went over and got a touch of the healing hands of Donna. This event revealed more things about my bod. Now I am consciously making these lifestyle adjustments. This treatment and a second brought great relief, but still more needed to be done. The next set of healing hands were those of Chad, our chiropractor. He took x-rays and made three adjustments within less than 3 minutes. I am now moving and working with great body freedom - still working towards 110% recovery.

Bit by bit . . . .
Bite by bite . . .

LESSON: Father (Abba as drawing above indicates) is always aware of where we are, where we're going, what we'll need when we get there, and how we will respond. TRUST gives us freedom to enjoy the purpose filled journey. Life is about the journey. Why? We're going to live forever, either in His presence or absent from Him.

He has hands along the way that He has prepared to help us. He is teaching me to ask and trust more. Father always gives us more than WE can handle. Life is in Him, the one that we move with . . . He's not interested in our living our life apart from Him. He's pained by this because we settle for so much less and are riddled with a life of frustration (which is anger that is managed which is a generational emotional time bomb).

SOCIAL NOTE: Chicago teen recent murder is a result of this whole principle. Healing hands is the only resolve for Chicago and Detroit. Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads schools need to be alerted to a an emotional time bomb on those campuses.

SOLUTION

Accept pain as a teacher getting our attention to allow the intrusion of others into our lives to accomplish what we cannot do on our own. The beauty is, Father never intended it to be done solo. If so, why would Father - Abba have given Jesus to die a brutal death on our behalf. Father loves us.

Thanks for caring enough to read this lengthy entry.

Painting by: Charlotte from Charles City, VA

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We hold the value that social media is a responsibility of corporate, small business, and non-profit entities. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography for corporate, government, faith-based, educational, editorial, and advertising clients. All photos in this photoblog are available for licensing for your next project.

Confess . . . NOT . . . Express Anger

2009-09-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

Confession is good for the soul (mind, will, and emotions). A dear friend of mine, John Teeling stated this proverb for healthy living.

Benefit . . . confessing acknowledges and operates in truth. Jesus said He is the way the TRUTH and the life. When we confess truth this puts our words in His realm of Lordship. He acts on truth - He is truth.
We must leave it alone after this point, less we become like those with whom we are angry.

Jesus angered but did not sin. How then do we accomplish this act of integrity? We must be honest with ourselves - others - God. Honesty attracts Jehovah Shalom. It is an invitation that He won't deny.

The First Nation has a cause to be angry, and those that want justice do as well. So then what is our posture? Confess the mess and rest . . . Father God will put all things in order. The key is not to attempt to do Father's part. We don't have a clue to this end. Jesus' method was quite unique.
He forgave his accusers and murders and declared before God that they were ignorant.

I don't know that I could have done that . . . my recent track record indicates I would have failed miserably. Let's forgive and allow Father's favor to be extended towards us in ways we cannot imagine. Pray for reconciliation within and without the First Nation as they prepare their hearts to receive Father's glorious plan for their lives.

THE GATHERING

2009-09-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

T H E P OW W O W

HONOR, HUMILITY, & FAMILY

Real Men Dance!

These posted images were gathered from the Pow Wow in Charles City, VA.

First Nation . . .

2009-09-27T11:43:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2009, Williamsburg, VA

DECLARATION

During the "BLAZE MANIFESTO" in Williamsburg, VA there was a prophetic announcement made to the United States of America from the womb of the nation.

The First Nation has been given the mantle of leadership in the Body of Christ. In addition, men that have been enslaved by other men have also been promoted to leadership in the Body of Christ. In days and weeks to come we shall see this word come to pass. Let us honor Father by honoring His choice.

Remember king David . . . The man of God went to the home of Jessie and asked is there another. As he gazed upon Jessie's sons they were strong, intelligent, and cultured but he did not find the anointed among them. David, the chosen one was assigned to tend sheep on this day. It is suspected that Jessie assigned David to this task because he was ashamed of his birth process, not of honorable origin. Jessie's dishonor was Father's choice.

So to the new leadership, look to your Father, who has anointed and chosen you. Do not take your value from the systems of men nor your ethnic origin. You are fearfully and wonderfully made for Father's purpose of discipling the nations.

do not be angry nor hate . . .

Your leadership will be opposed as was David's. Forgive and love those who resist you for they have resisted our Father - Forgive them for they know not what they do.

Urban Stock House produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life messages. All images on this photoblog are available for licensing from Urban Stock House library.

Unlocking Families

2009-09-25T05:49:00.000-07:00

Look at these facts...
... 75% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck.
... 95% of married couples fight about finances.
... #1 cause of divorce in America is financially related.
... Average 28 year old has over $66,000 in debt.
... Last year the average American spent $1.22 for every $1.00 earned.
... 62% of Americans will retire with less than $10,000 income per year.
(Breakthrough Media)

"Money answerth all things."

How does one obtain SMART money?

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography.

I Used to Think . . . . the Church

2009-09-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

The Church
is a living organism. We are coming to know who we really are.

Urban Stock House is a culturally distinct inspirational visual content company. We produce stock photography for faith-based, educational, corporate, editorial, advertising, government, and entertainment markets.

Fruit Juice . . . . What does ours taste like?

2009-07-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

On assignment Wednesday in Highland Park of Norfolk I captured this cultured organic fruit arrangement at the stand of the "Norfolk Lady." She is quite the fruit vendor.
It serves as a backdrop to some thoughts that have been challenging me of late regarding my personal relationship with Jesus Christ and growing productively in this relationship - ENJOY!

This past Sunday my dear buddy Kirk shared some powerful insights about the identity and authenticity of the Christian DNA. The thought I've been pondering 5 days now is the "squeeze produces the juice". Kirk said, "When you squeeze an orange you get orange juice, when you squeeze a Christ Follower you should get the word." I'd like to put a twist on this and say, "we should produce Spirit juice" from the fruit of the Spirit.

Lately my juice has been lacking in deficiency. I'm thinking Father allows for the squeezes that I might make adjustments and hang on the vine (spend time with Him)
more. Thinking about Him, seeing life from right to left (as in finished), pondering ruling with Him for eternity (that impacts how I now live). This is fresh Kingdom thought for me.

This thought process alerts me to a new friend I met through a media forum, John.
I've been thinking about his question to me, "what is my interest or passion?" This is not verbatim but in the spirit of his question.

This morning 12:30am while returning home from a house moving event, out of my spirit I thought about cell groups. These are how these thoughts formulated:

1) Cells are the smallest part of our bodies. When we have cells in local chruches that means the cell will have the DNA of that local assembly. How powerful it would be then if we had the DNA of Christ empowered resurrected Body in cell operation. Neighborhoods would be exploding in the expanse of the Kingdom.

If the Christian family functions the way church planters' cell models are designed to: nurture, disciple, reach out (withreach preferred) then we would truly have exponential growth as my dear passionate brother James Lee verifies in his lifestyle of Kingdom living.

In this new neighborhood I'm moving into, there has been police cars each time a truck load of items have been moved in the evening. This is good news for me because it means there is a lot of overt enemy activity which means our family (a natural cell) has been dropped into this war zone. We have been qualified to SEAL (Serve Eternal Ammunition of Love) the deal.

Most of the times as Christ Followers we attempt to avoid these neighborhoods. Why? What is the condition of our fruit? I didn't choose this neighborhood but Father led me to it. My heart has been for this kind of community for decades. Father allowed a hickup in my life that has put me just where my heart is without me being aware of it.

Thought, could it be the juice that is in us is placed there by Father (at conversion)?
He nurtures us on the vine so that at the most strategic time we will mature and produce much "spirited juice" which influences others to seek Him.
Could it be that this occurs in our natural cell (families) in the most dynamic fashion? What would community reach look like if we mobilize families (natural cells) to SEAL their communities. Families begin inviting our neighbors over for meals once a month. I mean really doing it faithfully. Call our neighbors - give them birthday cards - BORROW their lawnmower - listen to their challenges and victories - become the learner. Maybe they would ask the question . . . .

When Jesus fed the multitude before He preached, there's a pattern to observe.
We tend to see the multitude but the event always had a seed - the power of one.
The little boy with the lunch. Big opportunities normally start with seed resources. This is true of all growth patterns. However, the observer starts with the multitude and we miss our SEED RESOURCES. What do I have in my hand. We can spend a life time accumulating and never produce.

SEED - FRUIT - JUICE
(Remember process)

Juice comes from fruit. It takes a lot of fruit to produce a portion of juice. The life of the fruit is the seed - juice is the converter that is mainstreamed. The juice is absorbed in the blood stream to yield nutrition and maximized function of the body. The fruit is what is seen on the vine. Purpose is why the vine produces fruit.

Juice is the power to yield TRANSFORMATION personally, in our family, community, city, nations, and the new millennium. The squeeze comes to test . . . are we ready?

Just some thoughts because my Friends Kirk and John released Kingdom Juice.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company. We produce culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life alternative messages.

DISTANCE . . . trust, the stone to slay independence

2009-06-16T07:01:00.000-07:00

Last night my wife Gilda and I met with a very talented media professional - Janet of 5 Stones Entertainment.
She confirmed our reality. We ALWAYS need others to help us see the forest for the trees.

Regardless of how successful one may be . . . . others can see a segment of our lives, abilities, strengths, weaknesses, etc
that we will never be able to see unless we receive from others. This is the interdependent life Christ has called us to live
in with one another. It's a life of humility.

We're to be dependent on God and interdependent on each other . . . we are to prefer others to ourselves.

The DISTANCE project of Dream Music21 that I recently shot is a great example. It took 5 of us: producer, office manager, videographer, production assistant, and photographer to capture Savanah. I photographed her in a way - perhaps she has never seen herself. By me seeing her in this light photographically others now see her in a dimension previously unseen. For two hours our lives were interdependent. And the results were wonderful. What would the life of others be if we gave them two hours of uninterrupted focus and then used our giftings to advance them. Well, that's what Janet of 5 Stones Entertainment did with us. That's Father's invitation to us each day - time to come into His presence, so we can see the forest for the trees.

To go the DISTANCE in life we must trust others . . . . by trusting others who we do see; we're trusting our Father who we do not see. Let's live in trust today and see greater dimensions of the FOREST.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life messages.

ENERGY CONVERSION

2009-05-14T01:05:00.000-07:00

Principles of Kingdom Capital / Energy Conversion

All Capital Must be Converted for Value

*
Energy converts back to mass when slowed down
*
Matthew 6:10 speaks to invisible Heaven manifesting on earth
*
Romans 1:20 states that the "invisible thinks of God convert to things that can clearly be seen by things that are made."
*
Dollar capital must convert to the purchase of land, labor goods, and services.
*
Fossil fuel must convert to oil; oil must convert to gasoline, gasoline must convert to combustion power that turns engines and runs motors for value.
*
Intellectual capital must convert to skills. Skills must convert to economic opportunities in order to have value.
*
Relational/influence capital must convert to favor with man for value.
*
The highest form of capital is SPIRITUAL CAPITAL (God's glory in us). This converts to favor with God and man.
*
God's Word is His glory in us and must be converted from logos to "rhema" to action for power.
*
Deuteronomy 28:1 states "Hear it (hear the Word); See it (convert the Word to perception); Do It NOW (take action immediately/0-5 seconds) - and Kingdom blessings will overtake you!"

BOSS THE MOVEMENT, www.bossthemovement.com

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company that exists for the purpose of producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life messages.

School-Based Community Development

2009-05-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

We have to become intentional about seeing our youth TRANSFORMED. The Church is Father's instrument of manifesting the Kingdom of God in the earth.

Here's the analogy Yankee Stadium is the domain of the Kingdom of God. Home plate is the Church. The Kingdom of God is bigger than the Church. Youth are called to the Kingdom of God which is a place of rulership, servant leadership, blessing, honor, and purpose. They are hungry . . . that's why gangs exists. They receive blessing and honor and purpose in that environment. However misguided and misrepresenting it is . . . it's offering that which Father has given the Church to offer.

Thanks Mike for making it plain through www.breakthroughchurch.com that it time to step up to the plate. PLAY BALL . . . .

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company producing culturally disinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life attitude messages.

withreach vs outreach

2009-04-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have finally found in the earth what my heart and soul has been crying for the last 7-10 years in my journey as a Christian. I couldn't put the language to it.

Dreams, visions, ideas lie within every person. They are planted their by God from eternity (the beginning). They become spiritually awakened when we give our lives to Jesus Christ and trust Father God to lead us for the PURPOSE: dream, vision, and idea placed within us. Simple isn't it. Without God our lives are never lived for the purpose that He intended.

People around us daily have unawakened dreams. What if we asked them whats their dream?
The answer opens the door to who they really are . . . not who they've become or who others have affirmed them to be.

See more about "Withreach" at http://www.breakthroughchurch.com/withreach/withreach.htm

Urban Stock House is a cause founded visual content company producing culturally distinct stock photography with positive life messages

WOMEN . . . saving the seed!

2009-04-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

African American women, these are from Southside Boys and Girls Club in Berkley (Norfolk, VA), are continuing to play a serious role in nurturing the seed. Like Moses was rescued from the Nile by the Princess of Egypt and nursed by his mom and transported by his sister to the water way of safety. All of these women provided the initial formation of his life. His life had a destiny for the nations.
As Mother Day approaches let's remember the women of our lives that Father has placed strategically to prepare the seed to lead a nation to know the true and living God.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company that exist for the purpose of producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive lie messages.

Thinking . . .

2009-04-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

The new generation is a thinking one. Thinking leads to questions . . . questions lead to answers . . . and answers lead to right choices.

What are we giving them to think about? How about giving them some TRUTH. 1% of youth in America have a Christian World View. What does that mean . . . Well things like: a man and woman in covenant constitutes a marriage . . . there are absolutes . . . the Bible is the word of God . . . there's only one way to be in relationship with the true and living God - Jesus Christ . . . sin . . . forgiveness . . . heaven and hell do exist . . . missions is a lifestyle not an event . . . parents aren't to be tolerated but honored . . . discipline is love in action - its absence is selfishness, fear, anarchy, and gang rule

What a thought!

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company that produces culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with positive life attitude messages.

What's the COMBO?

2009-04-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

The combo is DESIRE. We all need a prayer room . . . a place where we can meet with Father. Prayer is listening and talking to Father God. You and I are so special that He gives us access to Him with our our combo. Let's take advantage of His promptings. The Creator of planet earth invites us to come into His presence. How big is that? Well think about it in this way. Jesus created the sun and the earth. We can fit 960,000 earths into the sun. How's that for perspective. That's the one giving us the invitation to come into His presence.

This helps me appreciate the magnitude of God and man. We live on a little culdesac in the earth. The earth revolves around the son not us. Let's join with Him in prayer and go out and take territory.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company. We produce positive life attitutde stock photography.

MARCH KINDNESS . . . "Get Your Heart In The Game"

2009-03-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

Since this is "March Madness", this post is most timely. I recently spoke with a very successful coach, Elwood Williams. He suggested a four point coaching strategy that's a guaranteed success pattern for on and off the court.

These are the steps in priority that he would coach a basketball player:

1) Learn to move without the ball
2) Learn how to handle the ball
3) Learn how to pass the ball
4) Learn how to shoot the ball

A special note: He would have rims with no backboards to insure players become pure shooters.

You put the parallels together . . . too numerous to illustrate here. I'll address the first step. Moving without the ball is the same as serving, positioning yourself to be in the most strategic position at the immediate moment. You're setting your self in a position so you can be an OUTLET for others, a rescuer.

What does this mean? One has to be able to anticipate the needs of others and then be willing to move away from where the action is or the cheers are . . . behind the scene so you are ready when pressure is too great.

What does this look like in day to day decisions?

Dad works hard for now and the future. He puts his desires on the back burner, so the 11 year old will have an opportunity in 7 years to make an educational choice. Mom, chooses to mend garments, so she can give to the orphan in Cambodia, who only needs $10 a month to eat healthy for 30 days.

A local Church decides when it builds its 2 million dollar campus to build a high energy efficient home in the inner city for a missionary family to have long term impact.

A high school senior on purpose decides to relinquish a senior trip to take the summer to serve the autistic through a local hospital.

LET'S LEARN HOW TO MOVE WITHOUT THE BALL and be in strategic position to provide an outlet for an easy basket. It takes vision - faith - skill - listening - fitness to play a whole game by moving without the ball.

Our motion is not predicated on what we have. It's predicated on what Father wants to give us. He's looking for the open man. He has the ball!

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company producing culturally distinct and inspirational stock photography with a positive life message.

Marshmallows For Dollars . . . .

2009-03-04T09:41:00.000-08:00

Recently YESUSA, a mutli-media motivational media group, participated in a collaborative entrepreneur camp sponsored by Regent University's SIFE team, Tranformed Community Outreach and Farm Fresh Corporation. Both Transform Community Outreach and YESUSA are members of Institute for Black Charities. IBC's strategic marketplace funding pipeline encourages its members to work and formulate collaborative networks to comprehensively experience city transformation.
This is a great example of philosophy in action. Great job guys!

This photo illustration is the type of imagery that Urban Stock House is bringing to the marketplace to transform thinking and cultural perceptions. These students were eager and engaged as "out of the box participants".

We are a "cause founded" company. YESUSA is an organization that we support technically and creatively. See their profile at www.yesusa.com

ER . . . .

2009-02-24T07:30:00.000-08:00

When we see ER it normally refers to Emergency Room. Well as you can see I haven't made a post since Christmas. So let me say to you happy new year. My life has been in a state of ER - Everlasting Restoration.

The most recent incident was last weekend. My wife went to the Emergency Room three times last week and twice over the weekend. My daughter, who is married, went to the Emergency Room as well at the same hospital within a hour of my wife's arrival. Here's the clincher . . . . for the EXACT same condition.

How do you recognize warfare? . . . Acts of terror, fear, sickness, and disease designed to steal life and cause confusion in the heart of Father's Kingdom. This is a prime example. The objective of warfare is victory for others not just the one engaged in the activity. Think about it . . . . Civil War . . . . Gulf War . . . . Vietnam Conflict . . . Iraq . . . those engaged in the front line are there on behalf of themselves an others . . . MOSTLY OTHERS.

EVERLASTING RESTORATION . . . Jesus fought the Everlasting War and He won. We are only picking up the spoils in the daily battles we encounter. The enemy has ignored the outcome. He refuses to wave the white flag. Well we are continuing to take the ground that Jesus gave us in Luke 9:1 - "Then he called His twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases."

We have to create some M.A.S.H. (Mad At Sickness & Hell) units in the battlefield. When we committed our lives to Jesus we enlisted for war. So let's get on our fatigues and get dressed for the battle we win.

Urban Stock House is a cause founded company that produces culturally distinct stock photography with positive life alternative messages.

2008-12-25T05:54:00.001-08:00

Sewing . . . A Christmas Revelation

2008-12-25T05:15:00.000-08:00

My wife, Gilda, is an excellent seamstress. She always has something in her hand: calculator, book, needle, or measuring cup. She's a true Proverbs 31 woman and our household is beyond blessed to have such a treasure.

Well, this morning about 3:00am I was her assistant as she is still completing two quilts for the girls and another 1/2 way done. She ran out of thread. I saw the machine twirling with no stitching being done. I asked her what's happening. She instructed me that the machine sews at the top and bottom of garment to interlock the stitches. She was putting thread on the bobbin which goes beneath the machine out of view. I was only familiar with the needle portion of the thread not the bobbin.

PRINCIPLE

1)
ONE spool TWO functions. Jesus came to earth as the thread of life - fully God and fully man. He had a heavenly function and an earthly function. We had to have both in order for the needle (salvation) to weave into a perfect pattern all of the elements of our life that needed to be made whole: spirit-soul-body. He left nothing unattended to . . . the birth of Jesus was the beginning of the knitting of the garment. This is important because Jesus completes everything He begins. He is Alpha and Omega. His death-burial-resurrection is not the completed tapestry but it allows us all the opportunity to be included in the final outcome - His Church. His return will complete the bride's garment. This spotless garment bearer will rule and reign forever with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

2)
Heaven and earth are working in concert on our prayers. Psalm 34:15 "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry."
Like a baby crying, it registers with mom NOW. Let's wait with expectancy. He's got it! For 42 generations they waited for the Messiah to be born. It won't take 42 generations for our prayers to be manifested . . . but in the appointed time. He is faithful . . . He's present now!

Thimble of Principle:

Let us not be caught off guard by judging our present situation by what we see. There's more thread working on our situation. It's interlocking the promises of God that are yea and amen.

Merry Christmas from Urban Stock House team.