In Luke 9:23, it reads, “And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” I know there are some people who feel like in the midst of denying themselves they have simply begun to lie to themselves. I know this to be true because that is something that I have dealt with. There was a point in my walk where I simply wanted to give up hope. I thought that if this is not burned out of me by now maybe it is something that is meant to be apart of me. I had such a desire to live righteously and it seemed like everyday I was forced to deny or oppose ungodly thoughts. This on-going opposition in my thought life caused a lot of personal duress. I began to feel that my whole Christian walk was a sham. However, I did not understand that my denial had stopped my opponent from scoring.

Sometimes it can be discouraging to feel like you are denying the same thing over and over again but it is not going away. It can feel as if you are living a lie. Take some time to look up at the scoreboard, the opposition is not winning. In Psalm 41:11, David said it like this, “By this I know that thou favors me, because mine enemy does not triumph over me.” Be encouraged, you striving for righteousness is not in vain. You may have to deny the same opponent daily but your enemy has not triumphed. If you stay in the game you will become so conditioned that you will be able to stop the opposition from even getting the ball in motion. You are not living a lie! You are living in denial of all things that are not God! You are victorious! Stay on the Path!

About the Author:Path contributing writer Calvin Walker has been writing editorial content for Path MEGAzine since 2007.  Calvin’s ability to break down the word of God with thought provoking analogies and real life analysis makes an impact on Christians seeking a closer walk with God.  An accomplished author, Walker released his debut book titled “The Gallery” early 2010.  Click here to read excerpts and purchase Walkers’ inspirational novel.  Email calvinwalkerauthor@yahoo.com

We at PATH wanted to take this opportunity to wish all of our Subscribers a Happy Thanksgiving.  We encourage you to take this time to Thank God for your many blessings.  Upon reflecting on my blessings, I was reminded about how easy most of us have it compared to others.  I learned to stop saying why me?   

This is a year that saw Path MEGAzine visit Haiti and participate in the relief efforts there.  We went to the Holy city of Jerusalem, and even reported on New Orleans 5 years after Katrina.  Through the travels, I realized how truly blessed I was.  I was thankful to be an American, Christian, and thankful for the promises of God.

Even when things feel like they’re spinning out of control, realize that you are loved and favored by God.  We as Christians know what the end is going to be.  So why worry?   The word of God says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.-Philippians 4:6

With that I want to share one more of my favorite Thanksgiving scriptures, and thank you for letting PATH come into your homes and places of work.  We encourage everyone to seek out and stay on the PATH God has for your life!  

Have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving,

Kris Patrick
Publisher

R&B Star Montell Jordan says on his twitter page that he will be leaving R&B to Pastor the Victory World Church in Norcross, Georgia.  Jordan’s tweets include,

You can visit Montell’s twitter page by clicking here.  Montell was propelled to stardom with the hit song “This is How We Do It.”  Welcome to the ministry Montell. Now that’s how you do it!  ;0)

Radio and TV personality Steve Harvey is already worried about keeping his material clean on his upcoming comedy tour – because he’ll be joined by gospel star Kirk Franklin.

The comedian and the gospel star announced this morning that they’re heading out on the road together starting in March, and Harvey says it’ll be a challenge trying to make sure he doesn’t offend the singer’s fans.

Franklin sums it up this way: “Steve brings the jokes and I bring that Jesus!”

Harvey is the new host of the TV game show “Family Feud.” Next month, he releases the book “Straight Talk No Chaser,” the follow-up to his best-selling “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man.”

Franklin recently released his own book called “The Blueprint.”  Rumor has it, that Kirk is in the studio recording a new CD that’s due out in March.  I wonder if it’s a coincidence that this tour starts around the same time as his alleged CD release.  My guess is that Kirk sees this as a great cross-over opportunity to reach mainstream audiences with his new project.  To a Gospel artist, crossing over means big album sales.  Only time will tell though.

The tour begins in Atlanta on March 19 and will make stops in Tampa, Nashville, North Charleston and Jacksonville. Dates are still being added.

Normal E-Blast Rate: $200 per E-Blast

The Sale begins today, Tuesday, November 23, 2010 and ends Monday, November 29, 2010.

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Path MEGAzine is pleased to announce our Thanksgiving & Black Friday Sale.  This sale is always our biggest sale of the year, and your one chance to get Ads at our lowest rates once per calendar year.  The Sale begins today, Tuesday, November 23, 2010 and ends Monday, November 29, 2010.  The sale will cover discounts on E-Blasts, Banners, and Commercial Ads that play on the Path MEGAzine.com website.  Just in time for your advertisement to air on our December issue where the site will get visited by over 20,000 different viewers.

Now is your chance to finish the year off strong, or jump start your New Year business.  Path is one of the leaders in Christian, faith-based, and Gospel promotions.  Boasting over 105,000 email subscribers and one of the most visited websites in Gospel.  Nominated for a Crystal Mic Award for E-Blaster of the Year by the Gospel Announcers Guild, the Path will aid your desire of making your name, ministry, business, brand, event or product a household name.

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TBN is bringing viewers a week of quality, family-friendly Thanksgiving programming to kickoff this year’s holiday season.”TBN seeks to do more than merely entertain,” says Paul Crouch, Jr., TBN’s chief of staff. “Our goal is to inspire people, engage their minds, and encourage their spirit through positive programming that speaks to the heart of people from all walks of life.”

“This Thanksgiving TBN is rolling out the preverbal red carpet,” say’s TBN publisist, Suzie Zahn of WDC Media PR. “Viewers are being treated to a wealth of inspirational films and classic motion pictures, that are ideal to cozy up with family members and loved ones, and watch together,” say’s Zahn.

From all the old classics to contemporary new films, TBN provides a cornucopia of Thanksgiving week viewing choices, beginning on Thursday, November 25th with the miniseries Jesus of Nazareth and ending on Sunday, November 28th with the classic motion picture, King of Kings.

Airing this week on TBN:

Jesus of Nazareth is an epic chronicle of Christ’s life beginning with the wedding between Joseph and Mary, and proceeds through Jesus’ birth, his encounter with John the Baptist, and all the way to the grueling, transfigurative end. The all-star cast includes Anne Bancroft, Laurence Olivier, Michael York, James Mason, Rod Steiger, and Robert Powell as Jesus. Jesus of Nazareth airs Thursday, November 25th at 2PM and 7PM (parts 1 and 2 air at 2PM / parts 3 and 4 air at 7PM).

Facing the Giants is an action-packed, family-friendly drama about a high school football coach who must draw up a new game plan both for his team and for himself. From the award-winning producers of Flywheel, Facing the Giants tells the tale of an underdog team and a losing coach who must face fear and failure on and off the field. It airs Friday, November 26 at 2PM.

Fireproof: You would think that no challenge would be too great for a brave fireman (Kirk Cameron) who rescues people from burning buildings. But the challenge of restoring his marriage becomes the heart and soul of this touching story of one firefighter. Fireproof airs Friday, November 26 at 7PM.

Angel of Pennsylvania Avenue: Set during the Depression, when a Detroit man loses his job and is arrested for a crime he didn’t commit, his children are determined to spring him from jail in time for Christmas by enlisting the help of President Hoover. Saturday, November 27th at 8PM.

King of Kings is the story of Christ who brings hope to the Jews in conquered Rome during King Herod’s brutal reign. When Jesus is born in Bethlehem, some recognize him as the future king of the Jews. The film reflects the many different ways that Christ’s message is received. King of Kings airs Sunday, November 28th at 7PM. Please note that the schedule times are PST, and are subject to change

By Kenny Taylor

As tributes to this Gospel Music Icon continue, Washington DC stepped forth over the weekend to honor and celebrate this great man and his music.  The event was held at The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square and included a cadre’ of DC-based psalmists who worked closely with Bishop Hawkins.  Hosted by Radio One’s Winston Chaney, the “Belle” of Howard University gospel programming, and Ms. Jacqui Gales Webb, a full evening of Hawkins music was re-visited with the help of Lady Tramaine Hawkins and sister Lynette Hawkins Stephens.

Rounding off the line-up was Richard Smallwood alumnus: Ms. Dottie Jones, who blessed the house with “Lord I Love You,” Loree Slye Montgomery, ministered “Be Grateful,” and Minister Dennis Sawyers who belted “Marvelous” with such passion that it visibly moved the excited congregation of Hawkins enthusiasts. Minister Sawyers performed the song at the Kennedy Center with Bishop Hawkins at his last national public appearance.

With contributions by Jimmy Russell & BOC, Brian Spriggs & Nu Worship, Ryan Vincent Ford & Ministry, Sunday’s Best’s Clifton Ross, Wyomme Parris, Co-Pastor Veda McCoy, Chad Gilbert, and Taiwan Bradford, the stage was set for Lynette Hawkins Stephens who blessed the house with the Hawkins classic, “Special Gift.” Closing out the evening of reflections was The Lady Tramaine Hawkins who re-visited the iconic “Changed” and “Going Up Yonder” as well as ministering her latest hit, “I Never Lost My Praise.”  The “live” clips of Bishop Hawkins and recollections by participants ushered in some of the most overwhelming moments of the evening. Additionally, commendations from the city of Washington DC and Prince Georges County, Maryland were presented.  “This is really, really nice” remarked Cheryl Jackson of DC’s Praise 104.1.  

Congratulations Pastor Jerome Bell, Attorney Ron Magnus (GMWA), Jimmy Russell, and Maryland Family Christian Center for making this Celebration a great success.

 (L-R) Atty Ron Magnus, Lynette Hawkins Stephens, Pastor Jerome Bell, Lady Tramaine Hawkins, First-Lady Tonita Bell

Winston Chaney – Radio One & Jacqui Gales Webb – Howard University FM – Guest MC’s

Also Read: Sheila Jackson Lee Speaks on Gospel Music Heritage Month: Tribute to Gospel Legends

Rapper Ja Rule will be starring in upcoming faith-based film “I’m in Love with a Church Girl” about an ex-convict who is now a pastor.

The movie also stars popular actress and musician Adrienne Bailon (member of the now disbanded Cheetah Girls), born-again Christian Stephen Baldwin and renowned music artist TobyMac.

“I’m in Love with a Church Girl” was written by Pastor Galley Molina himself while still in his prison cell. He tells the story of how he was at the top of a major drug trafficking ring in the mid-1990s and how he turned his life around after someone engages him to rethink about his faith.

He is now the youth pastor at Evergreen Valley Church in San Jose, Calif.

“In 1996, I was sentenced to five years in prison,” he said. “During that time, even before I was arrested I was already attending church. It’s not like I went away and then found God. God and I were already having some time together. God used this; that’s why we tagline the movie ‘God sometimes uses extreme measures to deal with extreme circumstances.’”

While he was pitching the film idea, studios wanted to make it into a street movie about gangs and violence, he said. But he refused to use the glamor of the rap world. He commented, “You probably rarely hear any hip hop in the movie; it’s all big-boy string orchestra and beautiful worship songs.”

Molina is proud to announce that he did the all the casting himself. He stated that he chose both Baldwin and Bailon for their strong Christian background and for their talents, and he knew Ja Rule from his music days.

“Ja Rule has been ministered to. He’s a dear friend. We’ve been praying for him a lot. He’s been open; he’s been so [receptive] to the word,” said Molina.

Molina also founded his own independent production company, Reverence Gospel Media, from which he hopes to release two faith-based films a year. “I’m in Love with a Church Girl” is his debut film for the company.

The youth pastor had originally intended to recount his story in a book but decided to go with a film. He noted that the movie would appeal to both the urban and Christian audiences.

A street guy, he said, would say “Yo, this is really hot, I like it, it’s such a cool story,” while a Christian would say “Hallelujah God, this is a great story, this is inspiring.”

“I realized you can’t draw the line. God’s people are God’s people,” he noted.

The movie is slated for release in 2011.

Also Read: Bishop Eddie Long Case Gets Trial Date: Early Mediation Set For February

Gospel CD Sales: Rap Artist Lecrae’s latest release Rehab stays atop the Billboard Top Gospel Charts for a third consecutive week. The album also enters at #8 on the Top Christian Albums charts and #14 on the Top Rap Albums Chart. Fresh, the latest release from Tye Tribbett, enters this week at the #2 spot. Just Love: Deluxe Edition from Brian Courtney Wilson moves to the #3 position while Israel Houghton’s Love God. Love People. The London Sessions comes in at #4. The compilation album Coco Brother Presents: Stand 2010 leaps to #5 rounding out the week’s top five albums. In other chart news, Aaron Neville’s latest I Know I’ve Been Changed debuts at #10 while The Promise from Y’Anna jumps eight places to #23.

In radio, the most played was “I Believe” from James Fortune & FIYA featuring Shawn McLemore and Zacardi Cortez celebrates their fourth consecutive week atop of radio charts. “He Wants It All” from Forever Jones takes the #2 position, while Vashawn Mitchell’s “Nobody Greater” hold to the #3 position. “I Choose to Worship” from Wess Morgan moves to #4 while Marvin Sapp’s “The Best In Me” is #5. Jonathan Nelson’s “Expect the Great” is #6, William Mc. Donald’s “I Give Myself Away” is #7. “I Want to Say Thank You” by Lisa Page Brooks comes in at #8. “It’s About Time for a Miracle” by Beverly Crawford is #9, while Brian Courtney Wilson’s hit “All I Need” spends its 84th week on the charts at #10.(November 22, 2010)

Lawyers for both sides in Bishop Eddie Long’s case met for the first court hearing Friday, saying they wanted to resolve the dispute quickly.

Attorney William Hill spoke on behalf of the Atlanta megachurch pastor during the status hearing at the DeKalb County courtroom. Long, who faces allegations of sexual misconduct from four young men, did not attend. Both parties agreed to a mediation session slated for early next year.

“The case could benefit from early mediation,” said Hill.

A judge set the mediation hearing for February. A tentative trial date is scheduled for July 7, reported Atlanta-based station WSB-TV. If mediation talks fail and the case goes to trial, each lawsuit could be tried separately or together.

Jamal Parris and three other young men have filed lawsuits against Long, the head pastor of the 25,000-member New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The lawsuits allege that the minister lured them into sexual relationships by using his position and lavishing them with gifts.

“The court can see from each of the complaints they are detailed complaints as to what the acts and allegations that are complained of by our clients,” said B.J. Bernstein, the attorney representing the four plaintiffs.

Long has officially denied the allegations, stating on the first page of responses to all four lawsuits: “The Plantiff’s claims to sexual misconduct are not true.”

In the response, Long said he mentored the young men and took them on trips but denied that any sexual activity took place.

New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, which is also listed as a defendant in all four lawsuits, said in its formal response that it could neither confirm nor deny the sexual allegations, although it confirmed that Long took the four men on trips.

Since the allegations became public, Long has retreated from public engagements. In September, he canceled a radio interview with the Tom Joyner Morning Show. And earlier this month, Long backed out of a scheduled appearance at a large Christian rally held at the Georgia Dome.

Long has vowed to fight the allegations, comparing his battle to that of David and Goliath.

“I have never in my life portrayed myself as a perfect man. But I am not the man that’s being portrayed on the television,” he told his congregation on Sept. 26, shortly after news broke out about the lawsuits.

Also Read: Bishop Eddie Long’s Church, New Birth Releases Statement and So Does the Churches’ School