Ironically, I finished the read on February 21, 2013 -- which is Cortne's birthday. Don't know what significance that is right now, but I know it was. I wrote in the margins, trying to outline various things that just stood out at me. First, let me apologize to you and all the gay and lesbian, beautiful, people! Ten years ago, I'm embarrassed to say that because of my own ignorance in understanding, I, too, had some reservations about my brothers and sisters who are in same-sex relationships. God dealt with me, severely, on it and caused my heart to line up with His word -- unconditional love just came flowing through me like a river! I was quite ashamed once the "truth" of it became clear. Your book helped further that truth. The Good News sealed it.
We tend to fear what we don't understand. I can't say that I understand everything that you write about, but I don't have to. I just love you in spite of me and in spite of you. ( I, definitely, love hanging out with God! Your book reveals Him, totally.) Isn't that how unconditional love works?
Secondly, thank you for writing "The Good News!" As I read through it...it was hard to put it down. I didn't just read it, I listened to you speak as though we were having a conversation. I heard your words; I heard your heart. It took much courage for you to reveal yourself like that. Coming from one who is so "guarded" like me, I am overwhelmed with you right now! After serving under your ministry for 18 years, I consider myself, my ministry--your offspring. Keep writing and I'll keep reading. Maybe you will experience reading one of my books in the future. I have about 3 in me.
I sign this note,
Respectfully yours,
Maxine S. Blake... and I add my AMEN!!
My dear Maxine...since you said you had originally intended to put this on my public FB page, but wanted me to read it first, I took the liberty of posting it on my blog without asking you first...this may very well be my favorite book review yet, for a number of reasons...you continue to walk in the same powerful anointing that has amazed me since the very first time I heard you sing many years ago...you have shown me grace more than once, and you have done it here again...I humbly thank you, and want you to know that I love you very, very much...
ReplyDeleteKevin InChristed Main said...
ReplyDeleteNice blog :)
Jake Gutierrez said...
ReplyDeleteI must read this book!!!
@Jake, you can order it on amazon.com or at www.jimswilleybooks.com
ReplyDeleteJake Gutierrez said...
ReplyDeleteThanks Bishop. I will be purchasing one ASAP. I look forward to reading it.
Jake Gutierrez...
ReplyDeleteI still need to plan a trip to come experience CITN and visit with you as well as Debye Swilley!!!
Carol Robinson-Toler said...
ReplyDeleteTRUER WORDS COULDNT HAVE BEEN PUT BETTER AS YOU SAID LAST NIGHT VOICES IN OUR LIVES ARE VERY IMPORTANT AND BISHOP THAT HAS BEEN SO TRUE UNDER THE MINSTRY GOD NOT MAN HAS GIVEN YOU. HAS REALLY FILLED MY LIFE WITH THE TRUTH I LOVE YOU AND THANKS FOR HAVING 3 GENERATIONS OF MY FAMILY UNDER YOUR MINSTRY WE LOVE YOU AND THANKS FOR BEING OUR BISHOP
Jean de Sousa said...
ReplyDeleteThat was a beautiful tribute! I know your heart was filled to overflowing and you deserve it. I never cease to be amazed at your courage and praise God for it. Love you and Ken.....Be Blessed
Maxine Blake said...
ReplyDeleteI am honored that you published my note to your blog. I love you, too. Blessings to you and everything you set your hands to...Max