then He said, “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.” He takes away the first that He may establish the second. (Hebrews 10:9)

Who do you know that will benefit from participating in this new online community to experience God in fresh and exciting ways?

Will you invite them? If so, when?

I’m thrilled to report what the Holy Spirit birthed this morning. The outcome from this will be extraordinary.

Tomorrow (March 24) I’m launching a brand new, 12-week series of webinars on Tuesday evenings covering much of the material in Henry Blackaby’s book Experiencing God. You, your family, and your friends are invited to participate in this world-wide, online LIFE group. This is free and will be inspirational and transformational. To learn more and register, see today’s Blessings of the Day.

What makes this LIFE group different than most, if not all, previous Experiencing God life groups around the world is that this one is online and will integrate online journaling. Because it’s online, people from different countries will be able to interact live during each webinar. God will use this venue to build and unite a vibrant online community of disciples of Jesus. And through the life and leadership coaching by Jerry Graham and me, participants will be propelled forward into their destinies.

In his outstanding book “Experiencing God,” Henry Blackaby writes, “In the mind and teaching of Jesus, a church was a vital, living, dynamic fellowship of believers. The Greek word “koinonia,” most frequently translated “fellowship,” is the best way to describe what a church ought to be.”

Henry Blackaby writes, “When God speaks, it is important to write down what He says.” While Henry talks some about journaling in his book, he doesn’t go into nearly the depth we will. Bruce Wilkinson, in his book “Secrets of the Vine,” shares how journaling played a key role in him breaking through to a deeper abiding in Jesus and a life filled with fruitfulness. Yet, Bruce doesn’t explain how to journal strategically.

On several occasions during my 2-way journaling, Jesus has told me, “Coaching people to journal to hear My voice is your sweet spot.” The LORD has wired me to be an UNCOMMON Journaler, spending hours each day journaling strategically. Why? Mark Jarvis says if a leader must jump six feet if he wants his followers to jump six inches.

There’s a huge miracle story behind the Experiencing God Through Journaling series. I’ll share more about that later this week.

Prayer Power
Most gracious and merciful heavenly Father, we praise You as the Master with the master plan. Thank You for birthing this UNCOMMON idea and opportunity today. May you bless the launch of this new online community. Thank You for the many, many people around the world who will be transformed as a result. Jesus, we humble ourselves before You acknowledging that You are the King of kings and the LORD of lords, the Holy One of Israel. Amen and hallelujah!

Blessings of the Day
1) “The Birth of Life Skills Coaching” [http://webinars777.com/the-birth-of-life-skills-coaching/] – free webinar at 11 am EST on Tues March 24, featuring Ben Stewart, my top business coach

2) “Experiencing God Through Journaling” [http://webinars777.com/gods-will-and-your-life/] LIFE Group – Tues March 24 (8 pm EST) is the launch of a vital, living, dynamic fellowship of believers, featuring a 12-week series of webinars

3) Download free Intro to UNCOMMON Journaling For Breakthroughs

4) Invest in my “UNCOMMON Journaling For Breakthroughs” ebook with audio

5) Begin 45 day free trial of The Journal software

“If we don’t act on a good idea within 24 hours, we are less than 50% likely to ever act on it. If we haven’t acted on it inside of days, then we are less than 2% likely to ever act on it.” – Bill Gates

Blessings to learn to discern God’s will as you live your everyday life!

Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!” (Esther 4:15-16)

What ACTION step will you take within 24 hours to TURNAROUND your life?

March 3 was the most profound day of my life!

During the weekly Marching Through Culpeper prayer call on March 10, Virginia Morton shared with our prayer team of 9 people that the keyword the LORD gave her for this week is TURNAROUND. God is a God of turnarounds. Virginia said she was drawn to the book of Esther and this week we focus on the story of Esther.

As mentioned in my YDB devotional sent earlier on March 10 titled “Organizing Your Life,” 94 people registered for Lynne Lee’s webinar interview of me and 34 people showed up live for the inaugural launch of her Christian LIFE Coaching Cafe on March 3.

Within just 48 hours of that TURNAROUND event, two people bought my “UNCOMMON Journaling For Breakthroughs” e-book and 28 more downloaded the free Introduction. And at least 5-7 guests on the webinar committed to join Lynne’s Christian LIFE Coaching Cafe. following my webinar.

As I was writing this devotional, I realized March 3 was a major TURNAROUND day, not just for me, but for many people around the world. My journaling e-book had finally been completed and was being offered for sale. During my two-way prayer time on March 3, Jesus told me:

“Randy, CONTRATULATIONS. You’ve made it. Today, the baby is being birthed. Your journaling book which has been 8 years in the making is finally complete and ready for sale. I’ve been looking forward to this day, not just for you, but for the many people who will benefit greatly from reading your book.

This book is about much more than journaling. It’s about much more than breakthroughs. It’s about developing a deep and abiding relationship with Me. It’s about understanding who I AM really is. It’s about learning to hear My voice so you can follow Me.”

About two months ago, Dr. Jerry Graham spoke a prophetic word to me that this journaling book might well be the log that when released unlocked a log jam of ideas and opportunities that God has been waiting years to birth. Over the past month, I’ve come to realize that applies to everyone who buys the book and follows through with my recommend 35-day growth plan.

Only those who take ACTION will receive. Highly successful people make decisions quickly and change their minds slowly.

Prayer Power
Most gracious and merciful heavenly Father, we praise You as the God of TURNAROUNDS. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who is the Revealer of all truth (John 16:13). Thank You that 2009 is the year of FRUIT. Thank You for the millions of people who will be impacted greatly in 2009 through their new habit of spiritual journaling. Jesus, You are my all-in-all. Thank You that every breath I take, every move I make is in You. Amen and hallelujah!

Blessings of the Day
1) Download free Intro to UNCOMMON Journaling For Breakthroughs

2) Invest in my “UNCOMMON Journaling For Breakthroughs” ebook with audio

Save $20 off the $97 retail price through March 15, 2009. Use Coupon code = 2009031501

3) Begin 45 day free trial of The Journal software

4) Join the Christian LIFE Coaching Cafe as a Member

First month of membership is free. Then only $27/month if you join by March 15. Membership fee increases to $37/month on March 16.

5) Become a JIREH Marketing Member (only $1 for first week trial period)

“If we don’t act on a good idea within 24 hours, we are less than 50% likely to ever act on it. If we haven’t acted on it inside of days, then we are less than 2% likely to ever act on it.” – Bill Gates

Blessings to choose to take ACTION with 24 hours to seize the extraordinary opportunities before you!

—————————————————————————————————-

A search of the Power Bible CD using “spirit truth” (NKJV) revealed the following:

• Ps 31:5 Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
• Joh 4:23 “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.
• Joh 4:24 “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
• Joh 14:17 “the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.
• Joh 15:26 “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.
• Joh 16:13 “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.
• Ro 9:1 I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit,
• Eph 1:13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,
• Eph 5:9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth),
• 2Th 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth,
  1Pe 1:22 Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart,
• 1Jo 4:6 We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
• 1Jo 5:6 This is He who came by water and blood–Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who bears witness, because the Spirit is truth.

P.S. Spiritual Journaling will transform your life!

Welcome! It’s no accident that YOU are here. Everything happens for a reason! Everything! There is no such thing as a coincidence. God has connected you to me to BLESS YOU – I mean to really bless you to help you break through in many areas of your life through journaling. The gates of heaven are open. The questions is, “Will you choose to receive?”

Journaling is the key
to unlock YOUR dreams!

Journaling is the key to unlock your DESTINY!

Journaling is Biblical. Our heavenly Father is the greatest Journaler of all times. The Bible is His journal – the most profound one of all times. And throughout time, the Holy Spirit has inspired millions of people to write to inspire others to greatness.

This book will absolutely change your life if you let it. You can download the introduction for free, so that you can see for yourself. All you need to do is put your first name and email address in the box below and you will have the keys to hearing God in minutes.

Your Break Through Is Just One Click Away!

UNCOMMON Opportunity
To learn more about Today’s life changing webinar “Introduction to UNCOMMON Journaling for Destiny,” CLICK HERE. Testimony: What a blessing! Journaling and using The Journal is revolutionizing my life. – Dan Paulsen

Secular coaches call it ‘intuition”.  LLC coaches have learned that we are really helping clients Hear God for themselves in a coaching conversations and discovering the empowering joy of their own voice in the process.  We train coaches to “listen to what really matters” by serving clients to hear, engage, embrace, and activate God’s Destiny Directions for them. – Joseph Umidi

Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ (Philippians 3:8)

On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your ability to consistently hear God’s voice?
What can you do to improve that?

In yesterday’s devotional titled “Changing Lives – Breaking Through,” we continued with our theme of Christ-enabled living, impossible living, heroic living. Yesterday’s key message: “When you change your thinking and your HABITS, you will change your life.” You were presented with an opportunity to participate in today’s life-changing webinar to change your thinking and habits.

Today at Noon EST, Jerry Graham and I are hosting an introductory webinar about our outstanding 5 week Journal 201 course titled “UNCOMMON Journaling for Destiny.” Rev. Matt Gregory and Dan Paulsen will be sharing their first hand testimonies of the impact of our prior course. Even if you are not available, you can receive a link to the recorded webinar simply by registering. CLICK HERE to learn more.

While preparing the PowerPoint presentation for today’s webinar, I was prompted to write down some of the new fruit I personally experienced from the Journal 201 course. Here is a partial list:
1) Began using The Journal myself
2) Got connected to Debra Thompson Roedl and the Wealth Alliance Group
3) Transformation Virginia was officially launched
4) Launched my own web store with products, courses, and memberships
5) Soul Purpose Church (my church) formally adopted “Coaching you to discover and fulfill your soul purpose” as its mission
6) Door opened for an alliance between Team Destiny and Lifeforming Leadership Coaching
7) I bought a brand new bicycle. My old one was more than 25 years old (literally an antique).

In my August 22 devotional, I mentioned that Joseph Umidi was my top new contact in 2006 and Debra Thompson Roedl has been my top new contact in 2008.
 
On August 19, Joseph sent the monthly Lifeforming Leadership Coaching e-newsletter promoting our webinar to his 1,500 or so contacts. In his message titled “Coaching with an ‘Ear To Hear’,” Joseph wrote:
 
“I am pleased to offer all of our coaches the unique combination of 2 keys to Hearing God for yourself that will translate into more effective “hearing” with your clients.  This is the unique combination of journaling and coaching to clarify what God is saying to you and giving you the ability to help your clients discover the same for them. Dr. Jerry Graham and Dr. Randy Peck have collaborated to design this life changing 5-week process for you that I highly recommend.”
 
Debra Roedl is regarded by some as the top internet marketing strategist in the world. When I met in person with her at the Marriott Crystal City (VA) on August 16 (the same day as The Call DC), she committed to promote our combo journaling and coaching courses. to her Wealth Alliance contacts around the world.

A few weeks ago I talked to Buddy Smith, Executive Assistant to the Chairman for the American Family Association. He told me he is willing to have Jerry and I interviewed about our combo coaching and journaling courses on Today’s Issues (American Family Radio). AFR has more than 1 million listeners nationwide.

Obviously God has His mantle of favor on the “UNCOMMON Journaling for Destiny” course. On behalf of all our Team Destiny teammates, we invite you to be blessed by registering for today’s webinar. Even if you aren’t available today, you will receive a link to our recorded webinar just for registering. Our target audience is people who are passionate to know God and make Him known. We are training champions for Christ. To register for today’s webinar, CLICK HERE.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, we praise You as an intimate God – as a God who speaks to us regularly. Thank You for training me to hear Your voice, which makes life flow so much easier. Bless each reader who chooses to register for today’s webinar to learn to hear Your voice. Thank You Jesus. You’re my all in all. Amen and hallelujah!

Link of the Day
Unthinkable: The Scott Rigsby Story

Blessings to develop an ear to hear God’s voice!

When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but with the humble is wisdom. (Proverbs 11:2)

What have been your favorite highlights for the Beijing Olympics?
What makes those especially touching to you?
How do you see God working through these Olympics?

I love the Olympics and what they mean to the spirit of competition, inspiration, and good will among nations. We hear so many neat stories and witness unusual twists of events that shape the destinies of not just individuals, but even nations. Today I’d like to share some of my personal favorite highlights and low points following the first 3 days of the Beijing Olympics.

Highlights of Beijing Olympics 2008

1) The Opening Ceremonies were the most spectacular ever. The synchronization of thousands of Chinese performers was incredible.

2) Record Olympic attendance (7 million people) with great sportsmanship manifested by the Chinese people. According to Ariel Rittenhouse, a synchronized diver who placed fourth, “It is amazing being here, because, in the United States, you never have crowds like this or anything. And they go crazy.”

3) President Bush’s attendance. He is the first sitting U.S. President to attend the Olympics held out of the U.S.

4) Michael Phelps first gold medal victory in the 400 meter Individual Medley

5) The comeback story of American Dara Torres. She became the oldest swimming medalist in history, at the age of 41, by taking silver with the U.S. 4×100-meter freestyle relay team. Twenty of the 31 other women in the relay Sunday were not even born when Torres first took the Olympic plunge at the age of 17 in 1984. Torres’s anchor time of 52.44 seconds was better than any other woman swimming that leg except for the 100-meter world record holder, Libby Trickett of Australia.

Torres was already the oldest Olympic female swimming medalist in history, after coming out of retirement the first time to take gold in the medley relay in Sydney in 2000. But after this latest, more improbable comeback, she is now the oldest swimming medalist of either gender. She is now the first American swimmer to compete in five Olympics and has won 10 Olympic medals, the most on this powerhouse American team, although Phelps already has nine (and counting).  On August 16, Dara goes for gold in the 50-meter race.

6) Park Tae Hwan becoming South Korea’s first swimming medalist ever by winning the men’s 400-meter freestyle at the age of 18. What a comeback for someone who disqualified in the finals in the 2004 Olympics in Athens after a false start. This was especially neat to me because my wife is a full-blooded Korean.
 
7) The story of the 43 year old woman gymnast competing for Germany in her 5th Olympics. She won the team gold medal for Russia at age 19. Her search for a cure for leukemia in her young son led her to Germany and the German team.

8) Michael Phelps got his second gold medal in his quest for eight thanks to a late comeback in the 400-meter freestyle relay by Jason Lezak, who lunged to the wall just ahead of the French anchor. The U.S. team’s time of 3 minutes, 8.24 seconds shattered its previous mark of 3:12.23 set the night before in preliminaries. This victory silenced the arrogant boasts made by the French relay team beforehand.

9) The stunning comeback of the USA women’s gymnastic team after a very auspicious start. Samantha Peszek, who had been expected to compete in all four events in qualifying, was practicing a tumbling pass when she injured her left ankle shortly before the team came out to compete. Her teammates said they heard a pop. Martha Karolyi, the women’s national team coordinator, decided to hastily rework her lineups, with Chellsie Memmel and now Peszek, both out with ankle injuries, competing only on the uneven bars.

Low Points

1) Without a doubt, the low point of these Olympic Games has been the stabbing death of Todd Bachman when he was attacked at a popular tourist site in Beijing. Todd was the father of former Olympian Elisabeth Bachman-McCutcheon and the father-in-law of the U.S. men’s volleyball team.

2) The loss of the second of two twin brothers (Paul and Morgan Hamm) for the U.S. men’s gymnastic team.

3) On the uneven bars, Liukin, a U.S. gold-medal favorite in the event, fell backward on her dismount, rolling awkwardly onto her back. Her father and coach, Valeri, leapt off the podium in disappointment.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunity to watch these amazing Olympic Games in Beijing. While we don’t understand the details, we know LORD that You are shaping the destinies of nations as a result of these Olympics. Bless the remaining 14 days with Your peace and good will. May there be much eternal fruit as a result. Thank You Jesus. Amen and hallelujah!

Link of the Day
U.S. Gymnasts Overcome Injuries in Qualifying

Blessings to soak in the Olympics with God’s eternal perspective!

As for me, You uphold me in my integrity, And set me before Your face forever. (Psalm 41:12)

How do you overcome fear of failure to walk out your destiny?

Yesterday, I received an email from Mac Anderson, founder of Simple Truth, titled “Unleash the power of creativity.” This morning I decided to pass on that inspiration to you. Here is what Mac shared:

Tom Peters gets it. He said…

“I’ve spent a good part of my life studying economic successes and failures. Above all, I’ve learned that everything takes a back seat to innovation.”

Tomorrow comes at us with lightning speed, and your competitive advantage is a fleeting thing. As leaders, we must create an environment that puts innovation front and center. Your people must know it is the key to your company’s survival.

You must create a climate that rewards risk and creative effort. Your people must not fear mistakes, but understand that honest mistakes can be life’s main source for learning.

SO TEACH THEM TO FAIL QUICKLY, AND OFTEN, TO ENABLE THEM TO REACH THE NEXT PLATEAU.

Every now and then a simple book comes along that deals with a profound subject in an unforgettable way. Paper Airplane is that book; and it teaches a valuable lesson about courage and creativity for people of all ages. It takes less than 30 minutes to read, but the “a-ha moments” are priceless. It’s one of my all time favorites.

So, if you haven’t seen Michael McMillan’s 3 minute inspirational movie titled Paper Airplane, you’re in for a treat! Just click on the link below and share it with friends and co-workers.
 
Live with passion,
 
Mac Anderson
Founder, Simple Truths
 
Mac Anderson is the founder of Simple Truths, a company dedicated to publishing great gift books that reinforce core values. Mac also founded Successories, Inc. the leader in designing and marketing products for motivation and recognition. Mac regularly speaks to corporate audiences on a variety of topics, including leadership, motivation, and team building. Mac has written three books and co-authored 5 more all available at http://www.simpletruths.com.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, we praise You as the Creator God, the most creative, innovative Being in the universe. Thank you for Tom Peters’ simple, yet profound message about innovation. Bless each of us with the courage to overcome the fear of failure and be willing to take risks to walk out our destiny. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Link of the Day
Paper Airplane Movie

Blessings to overcome the fear of failure, take risks, and be innovative for the LORD!

‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams.’ (Acts 2:17)

What dream is currently brewing in your heart, waiting to be birthed?

In yesterday’s devotional titled “Experience the Miracle,” I shared about miracles and visions. Incidentally, if you’re available between 1-1:30 PM EDT today, you are still invited to participate in today’s webinar (web seminar) led by Rev. Ron Davidson, founder of Gleaning for the World. To register, click here [expired registration].

Today I’d like to share about Lori Tingley and Dreams Come True Ministries. Lori is the wife of Dan Tingley. They live in Norfolk Virginia. My wife and I have been to their home for dinner and they visited us and Michael and Cindy Stay in Culpeper.

I first met Dan in August 2006 when I attended a 2 day conference at the Founder’s Inn in Virginia Beach. This event was co-sponsored by Regent University and Os Hillman with the International Coalition of Workplace Ministries. The first person I met when I walked into the conference room was Dan. He was maning a table for Lifeforming Leadership Coaching (LLC). Later that day, I met Joseph Umidi, co-founder of LLC. It was through my daily email that I stayed in touch with Dan and Joseph. As a result, the two of them first came to Culpeper together in December 2006 for a Healthy Virginia meeting sponsored by our Pray Culpeper team.

Dan owns 3 companies and works part-time as a marketer for LLC. He travels a lot, so my daily email has been an important way to stay connected with him. In January 2008, Dan contacted me, asking for my help to build 3 websites for him. Today, Jon Monroe and JJ Phillips, two of my workers, teamed together to get the starter website rolling for Divine Dreams. The video of Lori on the home page is awesome. You can see that at today’s Link of the Day.

Dreams Come True Ministries was founded in 2000 by Lori Tingley as an outlet for her singing and speaking interests. Raised in the church as the daughter of a Baptist minister, Lori started singing and playing the piano early. In 2000 she was able to use the talents of a song-writing friend and record her first CD. Lori began traveling and giving concerts and performances to promote her CD. On several of this occasions, Lori began to share personal stories and thoughts about her walk with the Lord. Her singing ministry became dual focused.

The name “Dreams Come True” represents the hopes and aspirations of people everywhere who are searching for something unique that they were put on this earth to accomplish. Lori believes that people everywhere want to be convinced that the things they think about doing and wish they could make real, are possible because God Almighty is the great Dream-Giver. DCT Min. is called to use the Word of God to open up people’s eyes to the reality of their personal God given dreams. Through thought-provoking and encouraging studies and talks, Lori challenges listeners to apply the truth of the Bible to their lives, in whatever circumstance they find themselves. Lori believes that the Lord is the only One who can meet all of our deepest needs. He made us and knows us better than anyone.

The purpose of Dreams Come True Ministries is to provide people with the resources they need to first of all, become more like Jesus in all areas of their lives, be it in marriage, family, work or any relationship. Secondly, DCT Min wants to help people discover, define and develop their God- given dreams so that they can be “wholly mature, complete in every good work…”

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, thank You for Dan and Lori Tingley and their precious friendship. Thank You for people like Lori who encourage others to have the boldness to live out their dreams. Bless their family and ministries LORD. May many, many people be inspired by Lori’s powerful message. Thank You Jesus. Amen.

Link of the Day
Dreams Come True Ministries – Lori Tingley shares in her video about Divine Dreams

Blessings to live out the dreams that God has placed in your heart!

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

What will be the ultimate legacy of Jeri Bradley in the future of Culpeper and Virginia?

On January 15, I was very sad to discover that Jeri Bradley had died the day before. Not only did Jeri have a profound and positive impact on Culpeper, but on me as well. Thanks to Jeri and her husband Al Gaige, I was able to host “A Life of Blessing” on their local B&G TV station from Nov 2004 thru Nov 2005. The interviews I did on that show opened many doors of opportunity. Pray Culpeper and this devotional are just some of the fruit from that.

In her Jan 15 front page article titled “Jeri Bradley dies of cancer,” Allison Brophy Champion wrote:

“She (Jeri) was a respected public figure who led a mostly private life. It was other people’s stories that she wanted to tell and she did it with style and professionalism. Jeri Bradley did it her way. The dark-haired local TV personality and broadcaster died from cancer Monday in her Culpeper home. Bradley was diagnosed with the illness in September. She would have turned 60 next week.

To the very end, Bradley was dedicated to her work. It was what she loved. A mother of two daughters and grandmother of four, Bradley also deeply loved her family; her parents were living with her when she died. Bradley and her husband, Al Gaige – the man behind the camera – celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary January 2.

In August, even as she was preparing for surgery, they launched an educational television station in partnership with the George Washington Carver Training Center on U.S. 15. ‘Now is the fun part,’ she said at the time of the station’s unveiling. ‘We want to make this the heartbeat of our community.’”

When I learned Jeri’s funeral was going to be a private one, I emailed Al Gaige to ask for permission to attend. He gladly invited me. The thought that went through my mind is that a grain of wheat must first die to yield 100 grains of wheat. Jeri sowed so many positive seeds into our community while co-managing Culpeper’s first local TV station, that we will see an abundant harvest from those in the next few years. I believe her final legacy in the future of Culpeper and Virginia will be much greater than while she lived.

This morning I had the privilege to attend Jeri’s memorial service at the Clore-English Funeral Home. Al told me he had received more than 1,000 emails from friends of Jeri this week. I was deeply moved by the many personal testimonies of people richly blessed by Jeri. Chris Lindsey moderated this service. I learned that he married Al and Jeri 8 years ago. Chris told Jeri’s family and friends we were here for a “celebration.”

After David Gilmore played his guitar and sang a touching song, we watched Al’s short DVD titled “Celebration of a Life … Jeri Bradley.” One person on that DVD described Jeri as a voice of reason. Another person said Jeri used to say a child needs 3 things – love, time, and respect.

Next, Bob Beard honored Jeri. He told how Al and Jeri adopted his family when they first moved to Culpeper 9 years ago. He read a letter from Dr. David Cox, superintendent of Culpeper School Public Schools. Dr. Cox described Jeri as always focused on quality, both the interviews and the TV set. He said his own life has been richer because he knew her and she was his friend.

Next came testimonies from Emily and Nancy Beard (Bob’s daughters), Michael Antoletti, (Jeri’s son-in-law), and Gary Close (Culpeper Commonwealth Attorney). Gary began by using simple words to describe Jeri such as infectious laugh, adventurous, honest. He said Jeri loved life and lived her life to the fullest. She did that by investing in family, friends, and community. Gary said, “Jeri had a profound and positive impact on Culpeper.” She asked tough questions, but allowed you to say what you wanted. She helped establish a quality local TV station.

David Martin told “The story behind the story” – how he had helped the Culpeper Town Council approve the new cable TV station in 1996. Allison Brophy Champion shared how Jeri had made a big difference in her life. On the last day that Allison saw Jeri in December 2007, Jeri told her, “I miss people having a voice.” Next, Pam Jenkins, former Culpeper Town Councilwoman, paid a great tribute to Jeri.

Finally, Erica, Jeri’s oldest daughter, read a stirring letter she had written about her mother when Erica was only 18 years old. From that letter I learned that Jeri had been a wonderful stay-at-home mom during the entire time both her daughters were growing up and that she made family meals every day.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, thank You for the profound and positive impact that Jeri Bradley had on me and the Culpeper community. I pray that you will keep alive Jeri’s dream to make the educational television station at the George Washington Carver Training Center the heartbeat of our community. May we see a 100 fold return on all the good seeds that Jeri and Al have sown in the past decade. Thank You Jesus. Amen and hallelujah!

Links of the Day
Photos from memorial service for Jeri Bradley

“Jeri Bradley dies of cancer” – Culpeper Star Exponent newspaper article on Jan 15, 2008 – see below

The dark-haired local TV personality and broadcaster died from cancer Monday in her Culpeper home. Bradley was diagnosed with the illness in September. She would have turned 60 next week.

To the very end, Bradley was dedicated to her work. It was what she loved.

A mother of two daughters and grandmother of four, Bradley also deeply loved her family; her parents were living with her when she died.

Bradley and her husband, Al Gaige – the man behind the camera – celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary January 2.

In August, even as she was preparing for surgery, they launched an educational television station in partnership with the George Washington Carver Training Center on U.S. 15.

“Now is the fun part,” she said at the time of the station’s unveiling. “We want to make this the heartbeat of our community.”

Indeed, Bradley knew how to get people to open up.
She began her on-air career in local radio – today’s WJMA of Orange – in 1994. Bradley was Gaige’s news director and the two did a morning show together.

In 1996, the couple took over as station managers at Culpeper Channel 21, the government-run cable access station.

Here, she and Gaige coined the phrase, “That Culpeper Feeling,” and made it into a slice-of-life program – the station’s flagship show for many years.

“To us, ‘That Culpeper Feeling’ is the essence of Culpeper, where friends take care of friends. It’s a wonderful community spirit,” Bradley said in an April 2006 interview.

In 2002, Bradley and Gaige left Channel 21, branching out into their own television enterprise with the creation of B>V and Channel 23. Broadcasting from a new, home-based studio, they went on the air in April 2003, ever devoted to sharing Culpeper’s stories.

Bradley never shied from asking the tough questions either, and many a local, state and national politician passed through her studio, perhaps sweating a bit under the bright lights. By mid-2006, B>V had produced more than 250 original shows. It went off the air in May of that year as the production end of the business took off – creating documentaries, corporate videos, interpretative historic videos, etc.

Bradley always did the talking. Gaige preferred to stay behind the camera.

As she reflected on the 10-year anniversary of “That Culpeper Feeling” in 2006, Bradley talked about Brandy, a little girl she had met a decade prior at Camp Fantastic, a summer retreat for children with cancer.

“It took every ounce of my being not to cry because here you have this 15-year-old struggling with cancer and yet she’s so wise,” Bradley said. “The next year we went back and she was gone.”

Wayne English, funeral director at Clore-English Funeral Home of Culpeper, considered her a friend. He is handling her final arrangements though the funeral will be private.

“Her vitality,” English said when asked for what Bradley would be remembered.

Gaige agreed.
“Kicking up her cowboy boots and walking in the wind with her beautiful black mane just flowing,” he said of how he’d remember her. “That and the love she had for her kids, her family.”

Jeri was a great friend, said Chip Coleman, head of Culpeper Human Services, and not just because, “She was always right on top of the issues.”

“One of my most fun things to do was have lunch at her house; she was a great cook,” he said Monday night. “She would fix steak salad, bleu cheese dressing, and a group of us would just talk politics. For hours.”
That was her style.

Allison Brophy Champion can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 101 or abrophy@starexponent.com
 

When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement. (Acts 15:31)

Who and in what way can you show appreciation to today?

I subscribe to the Simple Truths email newsletter. Yesterday I received the year-end message from Mac Anderson, founder of Simple Truths. Now I’d like to thank you for letting me be part of your life in 2007 by passing along Mac’s message and link to one of his all-time favorite inspirational movies. Enjoy!

“This is our last newsletter in 2007. And what a wonderful year it has been! Katherine Graham, the late publisher of the Washington Post once said, “To love what you do and feel that it matters, how could anything be more fun!” This is exactly how I feel! I am so honored and fortunate to be able to share my values through our beautiful gift books and short
inspirational movies.

I think it’s appropriate that I sign off in 2007 by sharing one of my all time favorite inspirational movies…The Simple Truths of Appreciation. It’s symbolic for our appreciation for you…our customers and newsletter subscribers.

It only takes 3 minutes to watch…but will be hard to forget! Also, please share it with friends and family. I guarantee they’ll thank you for doing it! So just sit back, turn up your speakers and click on the link below.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, thank You for those who choose to receive and read these daily e-prayer devotionals. Teach and guide them to be people of appreciation. Thank You Jesus. Amen.

Link of the Day
The Simple Truths of Appreciation movie

Blessings to show appreciation to people every day!

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. “For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Who can you share the wonder of Christmas with this year?

On December 10, I sent a devotional titled “Letter from Jesus about Christmas.” In response to that I received several thoughtful replies. The one from Vickie Pittman impacted me the most. She made some excellent points. Here are a few excerpts from Vickie’s email:

“I usually don’t ‘react’ to any of your daily emails, but today’s concerned me a little!  I read the rest of the letter and, by the end, it was much better.  However, you have a lot of influence and I get concerned when we are encouraging people to not take a stand, even in seemingly small things.  Per the letter in your daily email, I agree that we should be friendly to all we see in the stores, on the street, etc, and I agree with not shopping on Sunday and some of the action points stated.  However,  the few people that are speaking up against removing all references to Christmas don’t represent the majority view at all …

It is what  happened in Nazi Germany when there was a slow and methodical change and millions were murdered and tortured.  It is what is happening across the world now…

The word Christmas in a catalog may seem insignificant, but at least people are finally stepping up and saying ‘we have had enough’.  From the top of our government down to every “holiday’ program in our communities,  the few are trying to remove any Christian reference.  I agree that Christmas is way too commercialized, but, for many people, it is one of the few times a year they may reach out to a church, attend a service and make some statement that they believe in the one true God.   I commend those who are taking action – in a legal, responsible way, to let their voice be heard. Our founding fathers had to do the same.  Although, I do see the letter’s point in that people seem to focus on the wrong things at times – much like the Pharisees wanted a good appearance but their heart attitude was wanting.  Christians are not standing up for what matters in way too many arenas. Our freedoms are being eradicated on a daily basis.”

While posting emails into my journal on December 12, I discovered that Dr. Jerry Graham sent a devotional to his email list on the morning of December 10 (the same day as me) titled “Letter from Jesus” with the same topic as mine. That was absolutely amazing considering we had never communicated in any fashion about this. For some reason, God is raising a red flag to pay attention.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, thank You for people like Vickie who are bold enough to warn me when they think I might be abusing my influence. Thank You for the gift and wonder of Christmas and the love and joy that is manifested during this season. At this special time of year, we all renew our sense of wonder in recalling the story of the first Christmas in Bethlehem nearly 2,000 years ago. Thank You Jesus. Amen.

Link of the Day
Reagan’s Christmas Message – outstanding video clip at Sermon Spice

Blessings to stand up for what matters most (Jesus)!

But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matt. 19:26)

How do you react when you see people develop their ability to do what seems impossible?

Yesterday as I was sorting emails in the Inbox of MS Outlook, I came across Jack Stagman’s email that he forwarded to his entire YTB (Your Travel Business) email list in response to Dr. Jerry’s Graham’s devotional titled “More Overcomers.” Here is what Jack said:

“I read this story and watched a  moving youtube video and I thought about how easily we sometimes give up when adversity strikes. This couple in the video against all odds persevered, did not give up and came out champions. Will you become a YTB (Your Travel Business) champion during 2008 or will you quickly give up when challenges are at your doorstep. You may consider signing up for this daily email.”

I then watched the YouTube video and it really inspired me. It reminded me of the greatness within each of us that will manifest when we pursue our God-given passions doing what He created us to do.

Visit today’s Link of the Day to be inspired! This is one of the most magnificent and touching performances I have ever seen! It is living proof that a strong spirit can conquer any physical limitations!

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, thank You for the many examples You give us of people overcoming adversity to manifest greatness, both in our current day and age as well as in the Bible. Thank You for Your promise to never leave nor forsake Your children. Bless those who read this message to be overcomers. Thank You Jesus. Amen.

Link of the Day
Ma Li and Zhai Xiaowei – magnificent ballet on YouTube

Blessings to be living proof that a strong spirit can overcome adversity!