For those of you ready to become an author with me, let’s start here. (don't forget to visit the official course here Before you can start writing it’s essential to choose your audience. Most people start with a thought, or a story they have that they want to share or a “God inspired title” … and that’s okay, but what really helps shape the book is asking. Today’s Writing Move: - Finish this sentence:“This book will help readers go from ______ to ______.”or Finish this sentenceThis book will help ___________ go from _______ to _________." - Identify who the book is for. - Do NOT overthink — clarity beats perfection. 👉 Your book is not about saying everything. 👉 It’s about changing something. Be sure to CLICK HERE to get more info on Author Clarity in the OFFICIAL CLASS COMMENT YOUR AUDIENCE BELOW

LENT DAY 1 – Ash Wednesday From Thorns to Thrones: Marked by Mercy Main Scripture Psalm 51:17 (ESV) “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” Bible Teaching & Lent Connection Ash Wednesday invites us into repentance, not humiliation. Your manuscript emphasizes that ashes represent confession and appreciation for grace. God is not looking for perfection — He is looking for surrender.Lent begins with a heart posture, not a performance. Ashes say: - I acknowledge my need - I receive God’s mercy - I begin again Short Story / Testimonial A father and son had not spoken in years. Pride built walls neither would tear down. One day, the father mailed a simple note: “I’m sorry.” No excuses. No explanations. The son called that night. Healing began with humility. Black History Connection – Richard Allen Founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Connection:After facing racial discrimination in a Methodist congregation, Allen didn’t abandon faith — he built a church rooted in dignity and repentance before God. Lesson:Humility before God empowers dignity before people. Closing Prayer Lord, create in me a contrite heart.Mark me with mercy, not shame. As I begin Lent, I surrender fully to Your grace. Amen. BE FREE TODAY: COMMENT BELOW Today I will start Lent by fasting from _____________________. Share with us below what you will be fasting from if it's not too personal.

PRE-LENT DAY 6 –Strength for the Journey Scripture – Isaiah 30:15 (ESV) “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” Word: Strength Practical Teaching Pre-Lent builds endurance for the wilderness season. Jeremiah 33:3 Connection Trusting God strengthens the one who calls on Him. Black History Spotlight – Matthew Henson Arctic explorer who accompanied Robert Peary to the North Pole. Lesser-known fact: Henson was likely the first person to actually reach the geographic North Pole, though recognition came decades later. Connection: Quiet strength often goes unnoticed — but it endures. Going Beyond Tip Strengthen your spirit with rest before you sacrifice. Prayer Lord, renew my strength in quiet trust. Prepare me for the journey ahead. Amen. MAKE A PLAY: what gives you the most strength in God?

COMMENT BELOW ... WHAT DOES MAKING SPACE FOR GOD MEAN TO YOU? Making Space Scripture – Psalm 46:10 (ESV) “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Word for the Day: Stillness Practical Teaching Before Lent begins, we must slow down. Lent is not something we rush into — it is something we enter. Stillness is the doorway to depth. If we never pause, we cannot hear. Jeremiah 33:3 Connection God promises to reveal “great and hidden things.” Hidden things require quiet spaces. Stillness prepares the ear for revelation. Going Beyond Tip Schedule 10 uninterrupted minutes today with no phone, no music — just silence before God. Black History Spotlight – Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays Who He Was:Dr. Benjamin E. Mays was a theologian, educator, and longtime president of Morehouse College. He mentored generations of leaders — including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Lesser-Known Fact:Before becoming a prominent educator, Mays spent years in disciplined theological study and spiritual formation. He was known for beginning each school year with deep spiritual reflection and moral vision-setting, not hype. His leadership was rooted in contemplation before action. He once said: “Not failure, but low aim is sin.” Why He Fits Day 1 (Stillness):Mays believed clarity comes from reflection. He understood that leaders must think deeply before moving publicly. Stillness shaped his vision. Prayer Lord, quiet my heart. Teach me to be still before You. Prepare me for deeper places as Lent approaches. Amen.

Have you had a chance to listen to Wed night’s message? Did you know life can sometimes feel as cold as a snow storm…but God can you can use inclimate weather like situations to give you: - Defend and Protect - Demonstrate How Powerful He made You - Distinguish you as Peculiar - Destiny Preservation click the video, skip to the message (or watch the entire service) and share your BIGGEST TAKEAWAY IN THE COMMENTS. WED Night we: - Prayed together and increased the volume - Had powerful praise and worship - Heard a word from 2 Samuel 23:20-21