Urban Inspiration

admin — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 23:58:43 +0000

The line between secular and gospel music is a thin one, and while a good number of artists have been able to successfully walk the tightrope of both genres, very few have been able to blend both sounds into one art form. Enter, Frank Henderson. Even though Frank Henderson is both a gospel vocalist and a minister, you won’t find him doing the traditional hand clapping, foot stomping, over-the-top performances normally associated with most gospel artists. That’s not Henderson’s style. With a mindset that’s in tune with R&B as much as it is sacred music, it s no wonder why both secular and gospel audiences were calling Henderson the R. Kelly of the gospel world when he first stepped onto the music scene. Blessed with a rich voice that can be both smooth and edgy, Henderson is a vocalist/songwriter and musician that you instantly notice once he takes the stage. More David Hollister than James Cleveland, Henderson blends a wide variety of sounds and styles in his music to create sound that’s all his own. With Henderson, you get some R&B, a bit of soul topped off with a little funk just for good measure. Some in the traditional church crowd might say that Henderson’s mixing gospel with the Devil’s Music. Henderson just sees it as his way of artistic expression. I see myself as a pioneer in the sense of you seeing a lot of people making a more authentic music, Henderson says. I’ve never put any boundaries on my music, so I plan on including anyone that wants to hear my sound. People like to categorize their lives, so I want to make my music where it’s not able to be put in a box, but just be considered good music. Henderson’s debut CD, Urban Inspiration, became a cutting-edge, independent classic in the gospel music world. With its sublime mixture of R&B and soul in a gospel package, Urban Inspiration gained the attention of secular radio, which was Henderson’s goal all along. Henderson plans to take his next album, which is currently being recorded, to an even higher plateau than Urban Inspiration reached. I m trying to take my music a little deeper this time, because I recognize that the audience I m trying to reach needs to relate to my sound better, Henderson says. My last album, I was talking about taking my music outside the four walls of the church, but I was still in some respects speaking church. This time I want to be more urban and relate to even more people. It’s that urban side of the music that keeps Henderson on the innovative curve of gospel. Although his lyrics give you an uplifting message of enlightenment, Henderson understands it’s not a sin to get your hips moving and fingers popping to get his message across. So be on the lookout, if Frank Henderson has his way, he’ll be moving you both physically and spiritually in the near future.

Respect the President

admin — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 14:07:32 +0000

I am extremely perturbed right now. There are so many things that I see happening in our political arena that is making this Pastor angry. Senator, Joe Wilson calls the President of the United States a liar on national television and within some circles, he [Wilson] is respected. Shameful! In addition, TV commentators have loose lips that are shaping public sentiment and causing Americans to have no faith in the process of electing our representatives. Sarah Palin, making snide and malicious ramblings, again! Scott Baio has the nerve to call into question the beauty of our First Lady? He better be glad that I’m not the “Prez” or we would have a “Come to Jesus” meeting. Too many people are being reckless with their mouths and attitudes toward the President. The Office of the President is an office of high esteem. It is the most powerful office in the world and must be respected. I teach the congregation at XCEL Fellowship Church that we are commanded pray for governmental leadership so that we can live our lives peaceably. (1Tim 2:1-2) Scripture also lets us know that “all authority is ordained of God…” and is established for our good. (Rom 13:1) Being commanded to pray for those that are in authority is God’s invitation to intervene in the realm of the political process. One can search YouTube to see the blatant disrespect and animosity toward all types of leadership, spiritual and secular. This is a roaring “check engine” light signifying the downward spiraling of our honor compass. Saturday Night Live (SNL) is a brand of comedy that must take some of the responsibility for this erosion of respect toward dignitaries. Their parodies regarding President, Barack Obama, Senator, John McCain, and Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton are way past the line of respect and honor.

I’m asking all Pastors in America and beyond her borders take the reigns of leadership and teach congregants what it means to have honor, respect, loyalty and commitment towards the World’s leaders. Let us not allow the people that are lead by us have skewed views and attitudes toward the President and lose hope in his effectiveness as a leader. America needs a sharp rebuke. Disrespect should never be tolerated. Let us rise and be the great nation that we all know we should and can be. America, watch your mouth and show some respect!

This thing called Grace, it’s all I got!

admin — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:32:03 +0000

Watch the clip first then read.

People that know me or even people that are apart of XCEL Fellowship may wonder why we [the administrative team] are driving from Raleigh/Durham to Oxford to assist in God’s vision for a church? Why drive 45 minutes to an hour to go to church? I’ve even ask myself as I take the Henderson-Petersburg exit to Oxford. Especially, when I had difficulty driving to Durham to another church that I thought was poppin’ love it, but “oooo-uhmmm it’s in Durham? I live in Garner! I’m gonna watch service on TV or Youtube.” Heck, let me be real about it. I didn’t want to drive to my mom’s church 10 minutes away from home. *Kanye Shrug* Back to the reason why I drive, well point blank and simple, it’s God’s vision and I accepted my part in His plan. Two, it’s not about me, it’s about the lost and the Steve Harveys of the world (see video). Three, it’s for the person(s) God has called XCEL Fellowship to shepard. That’s what it is all about.

*Yells* It’s Haaaard! For YEARS I was accustomed to my Sundays being used for school or something I wanted to do! Now, I gotta snap back into going to church? On top of that, I have to drive 2 hours round trip? Are-you-serious? The ponti (my car, a Pontiac) is holding on, my girl is hanging in there with me. WHEW…this thing called grace, is keeping her going! I have to tell myself consistently, despite how badly, I want continue my Sunday ritual of chillin’ with mom/ friends, cooking up dinner, watching the Carolina Panthers lose and then watching a B movie to laugh at; I have to remember there are Steve Harveys who needs us, need me. On a particular Sunday, I might be the only person someone listens to about God. There are those that want to have a discussion on the wondrous misunderstanding of God and I might have the words to unlock their destiny. I can’t be a “Holy-Roller” about it.

Let's go have a talk about Him without the snubs, condescension or prejudices.

It is easy as a leader to fall into an emotional trap akin to what Steve Harvey was releasing on the show. Leaders think they have to be problem solvers for every member and act like something must be said in comfort to the hurt. If you notice in the clip, Donnie McClurkin just prayed. Steve was going through something at that time needed spiritual revelation and God had not given Donnie a Ramah or Ramen word. Pastor McClurkin bowed his head and called on the Lord instead.

There are times and situations where you WILL NOT understand and you SHOULD NOT jump into everyone’s situation. When a person is trying to converse with God the surety that He is listening can seem like a void in their time-’o-need. In that case, people tend to search for someone that will tell them what they want to hear. If that is the case, it is leaderships responsibility to remind them of this thing called, grace. She always listens, provides and comforts. It is what God has sent to remind believers that when you get that “not being heard by God” feeling grace taps you on your shoulder to say, “C’mere give us a hug or Gurl/Maaaan, we are going to push this car down the road one mo’gin and protect you on the way to your assignment.”

1 Corinthians 2: 9-13 says,”…We speak of things which eye has not seen nor ear heard, and which have never entered the heart of man: all that God has in readiness for them that love Him…” You hear this quote often, but I think the next verses are key understanding how we should deal with understanding people, “…For us, however, God has drawn aside the veil through the teaching of the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everything, including the depths of the divine nature. For, among human beings, who knows a man’s inner thoughts except the man’s own spirit within him? In the same way, also, only God’s Spirit is acquainted with God’s inner thoughts. …we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which comes forth from God, that we may know the blessings that have been so freely given to us by God. Of these we speak–not in language which man’s wisdom teaches us, but in that which the Spirit teaches–adapting, as we do, spiritual words to spiritual truths.”

WRAP IT UP B!

It’s easy to assume that life’s experiences permits authority to counsel others. I am here to tell you, that is not so. We’ve have been assigned to specific individuals to provide Godly wisdom. Good intentions based on your “understanding” and not spiritual truth can destroy a life. I have accepted that I am assigned to certain people coming to XCEL for the purposes of fulfilling God’s will for XCEL Fellowship. I also have accepted that I can not, must not counsel everyone that walks through those doors. It is important to recognize my place and be prepared when time comes RECEIVE understanding. To all reading this entry, Stop trying to analyze what people are going through just because they share their story. God will come forth in His time using His language to give spiritual truths, IF you are truly the person to provide counsel.

I will end this with two Moral-A-Tee (coming soon) quotes:
1 Corinthians 2: 11-What you THINK and What IS are two different things.
or
1 Corinthians 2: 11-*SIGH* Let God Handle it! You ain’t THAT Smart.

That’s my time folks.
VEE

Organizing for Expansion

admin — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 02:24:19 +0000

Sometimes WE are praying for things that we really don’t need to pray for. In the body of Christ we’ve made prayer the key to obtaining from God when in reality it isn’t. For instance, “Lord, I really need a mate and I’m praying to you because I know you’re able”…..sounds good on first glance, but is prayer really the way to go about securing a mate? I personally don’t believe so. I think that we should be able to talk to God about anything and that all of our request should be made known unto him, but sometimes in OUR efforts to appear righteous and holy we forget that prayer is a conversation and that after the conversation we have to “organize” for the answer to our requests. I believe that if we were to start organizing for the things that we need, God would grant them. Organization is key. From what I read in scripture God has always planned [organized] for what he was going to do. When he wanted to send his Son into the earth, he began to organize right in the garden of Eden. He spoke of the “seed” that would bruise the serpents head. He spoke through the major and minor prophets of a coming savior. John the baptist was sent to “organize” or prepare the way for the lamb of God. So what is it that you’re wanting from God? Organize for it and you will see the hand of our father extended from heaven to grant you your request(s).

Pastor Frank Henderson is a young man that lives in Raleigh, North Carolina and absolutely loves God’s people. XCEL Fellowship Church is where he pastors full-time in hope of reaching the city of Oxford, NC. He can be reached at www.xcelfellowship.com or by emailing xcelfellowship@gmail.com all day, every day.

Broken Compass: Reaching the Lost.

admin — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:00:19 +0000

The first component of XCEL Fellowship’s Mission statement is to Reach the Lost. The Bible asks in Romans 10:14, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”

The first thing we need to learn in reaching the lost is knowing how to start up a conversation that will lead into introducing salvation. When I am talking with a non-believer, my goal is to see how is God working in their life and then I can bring the conversation to a point where we look at God’s word. There are 5 key points to knowing how to begin a conversation that ends with the word of God.

1. Find out what their needs are.
2. Talk about current issues or the NOW.
3. Talk about spiritual issues, ask the non-believer what are their opinion or views on the topic.
4. Talk about the Kingdom of God (Heaven).
5. Talk about the word and what it says about salvation in Jesus.

It is also important to help a non-believer understand that you care about them as an individual and their soul. Often, people spend all day preaching and feeding their spirit man only to deprive the outer man. God intentions for us is to be well spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. The bible tells us in John 10:10, “I come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly.” That scripture says that there is much more than just material things we are to receive. I believe the word, “abundantly” in this scripture lets us know that we can have more of Him spiritually, more of Him mentally, more of Him emotionally, and more of Him physically. God is more than just a good feeling on Sunday mornings. He is a realistic God that we can live and be with here in this world, everyday.

That is why it is important when evangelizing the word of God that we first find out what the individual’s needs are. Secondly, reintroduce their soul to Jesus and provide an opportunity for salvation. Third, express that God cares and desires to help the inner and outer man.

God Bless You and remember “It’s all about the SOULS!”
Migdalia De’Leon

Gospel Glossary:
There are four components to the “life” of a human, but only three are discussed the spirit, body and soul.

Spirit/ Inner man is the intuition God gave to us a directly in Genesis 2:7, “Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.”

Body/Outer man is the frame which connects us with the physical world and the vessel for the five senses. Romans 7:18, “For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not.”

Soul is the person’s mind, will and emotion as expressed throughout the book of Psalms; for example Psalms 139:14, “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.”

Non-Believer/Lost an individual who does not believe or accepted salvation through Christ Jesus accordance to Judeo-Christian principles.

Help wanted…no resume required!

admin — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:01:07 +0000

I started off writing this to myself about myself while I was thinking about my role at XCEL and my role in Corporate America. I hope that others will view this introspection of my relationship with the Father and my new responsibilities as, helpful.

According to Merriam Webster, the word ‘administer’ etymology is minister or servant: to manage or supervise the execution, use, or conduct of, perform the office of administration, furnish a benefit, to manage affairs.

Many times when a job in administration is available, people are quick to get that resume in, baby because I have gots to make this chedda! So I can make it rain!

Men and women don’t like to get their hands dirty anymore. Folks wanna sit up top in the big chair, eat the big piece of chicken, observe, instruct, and evade. People get excited about the monetary rewards of leadership. Commissions, bonuses, and perks because you’re the boss, right? The subordinates have to do what you say. Who cares that it may require long nights, frustrating days, and event-less weekends. Time for friends and family will come later. To paraphrase Drake we’ve got the money, the cars, and the clothes, and the ho-ho’s (you know, the little Debbie Cakes)…I suppose; after the kids are grown, friends and family have slipped into eternal sleep, two ulcers, a heart attack, and other ailments later… I just want to be successful. To what benefit is it to have material things, yet never to have fulfilled the purpose and will of God? Where is the administration in your life? So caught up in THINGS that the focus has been taken off HIM.

He is looking for you to manage or supervise His gifts, the execution, use or conduct of your talents, perform in the office of administration in the body of Christ, furnish the benefits of Jesus Christ to the lost and manage the affairs of His cause. (see definition above)

To be an administrator in God’s kingdom, there isn’t a form to complete or a resume to submit. No application needed. You can start immediately. “Before you were formed in the body of your mother I had knowledge of you, and before your birth I made you Holy; I have given you the work of being a prophet to the nations…”(1) because God ordered you a hot steamy cup of destiny when you were born.

Being a prophet is being one who speaks about God and his works. We are the immediate organ of God for the communication of His mind and will to men.(2) As a prophet we are to communicate His mind and will to men using our respective gifts and talents. It’s my job as an administrator to assist the Pastor by making sure XCEL Fellowship offers its members benefits, keys, tools, knowledge and skill to go out and Reach the Lost, Equip the Saints, and Manifest Christ Worldwide. One’s voice can manifest in teaching, writing, singing, cleaning, fundraising, encouraging or through any gift God has given us to Reach the Lost, Equip the Saints and Manifest Christ Worldwide. That is your anointing and we must do it while:

Loving Jesus,
Loving your service / gift,
Being dedicated,
Being responsible,
Accepting constructive criticism and,
Rebuking fear.

“The harvest is indeed plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore to the Lord of the Harvest, that he may send out laborers into His harvest. Go your ways. Behold, I send you out as lambs among wolves.” Be an administrator in God’s way, “…into whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat the things that are set before you. Heal the sick who are therein, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God has come near to you.” (3) It’s not about THINGS, MONEY, POWER, POSITION….it’s about HIM.

With all that I am,

Vee

1. Jermiah 1:5
2. Deuteronomy 18:8
3. Luke 10:2-3,10

Crystal Lewis – Trust Me

About

admin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:34:56 +0000

A brand new, diverse, eclectic, down-to-earth and biblical ministry in the heart of Oxford, North Carolina designed with YOU in mind. XCEL is a body of believers that are committed to seeing Oxford BE all that it can be. @ XCEL you will find people of like faith that are one in spirit and focused on the mission. Birthed in the heart of church planter and lead pastor, Frank Henderson, XCEL is attracting those that are ready to be included in what God is doing. Pastor Frank is committed to helping ALL achieve their God-given dreams. One visit to XCEL and YOU will NEVER be the same! Jesus IS Lord!

The Power Of Tenacity!

admin — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:51:09 +0000

At some point and time EVERYONE feels like giving up. Setbacks zap our confidence and our belief in ourselves to the point that although we serve a God with ALL power WE feel like none of that power can make a difference for us or our situation. I believe that it’s at those times that WE all have to dig down a lil’ deeper and summon that God-given ability that helps us to get it done. Sometimes the mandate to reach Oxford, North Carolina seems daunting. Many tell us that we’re not needed. That people are content. We press on anyway knowing who sent us and being confident in HIM. Many men and women in scripture have had their times of wanting to give up or pack it in. One particular prophet stands out in scripture to me. His name was Moses. His story is one of escaping death, growing up rich, neglecting privilege, identifying with the less fortunate, making heinous mistakes, being exiled into obscurity, returning in power AND eventually ALMOST accomplishing his God-given goal. Imagine what it felt like to know you’re NOT the son of a Pharoah, but the son of slaves. Imagine your desires to defend ‘your people’ taking you to a point of accidentally committing a murder. Imagine believing that your vision or dream is dead because of it. Imagine being exiled and a fugitive from justice. Are you getting it yet? Imagine returning to a people that think you’re more problems than they need. Imagine having a vision and seeing further than the people you’re called to reach can fathom. Imagine the resistance of the world’s most powerful Pharoah, being trapped in a desert with people that are complaining daily knowing that maybe this is more than what you signed up for. The great thing is that he did bring the children of Israel out of bondage. The sad thing is that he didn’t usher them into the promised land. The lesson in this is that no matter what you’re going through, exemplify TENACITY. No matter what THEY say, exemplify TENACITY and no matter how many times you stumble and fall…..Get UP and exemplify TENACITY! As long as you’ve got breath, It’s your right. Don’t let God or yourself down!

Sincerely Yours :: Kim Person

admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:15:16 +0000

Propelled by excellence and driven by a divine calling on her life, Kim Person, a four time Apollo Award Winner, is setting a new standard for female gospel artists. Kim’s unyielding sense of purpose is evident both on and off stage. As for the depth of her character, she is humble – but not meek. She is submissive – but not subservient. Kim Person is a strong woman of God.

Raised in a small town in North Carolina, her grandparents were determined she was destined to make a difference in the music industry. From the age of 2, they stood her up on a cement block and let her minister to crowds in song. Today, as a national recording artist, her compelling sound has touched the hearts of many and has helped many to quench their thirsty spirits.

Kim’s experiences have given her the privilege of performing at select major venues for legendary favorites like Donnie McClurkin, Angelo & Veronica, Bishop TD Jakes, Vicki Winans, Deitrick & Damita Haddon, Kurt Carr, Hezekiah Walker, Karen Clark-Sheard, Helen Baylor, Yolanda Adams, and more. Kim tours nationally and her extensive schedule keeps her busy spreading the “good news”.

The ministry of her music has been seen on The Inspirational Network (INSP), The Black Entertainment Today (BET), The Word Network, NBS, ABS and CBS – reaching audiences of over 100 million viewers.

Applauded for her vocal range, melodic sensitivity and ability to evoke the presence of God through music, Kim has performed at numerous major conventions including the 2001 Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA), Shirley Caesar’s Outreach Convention and Springfest 2001.

Female Vocalist of the Year

2 Time NCGAG Winner

4 Time Apollo Award Winner

McDonald’s Gospel Superfest III New Artist Showcase Winner

The NCGAG Project :: Various Artists

admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:11:32 +0000

The artist on this compilation are already making great strides and joint venturing with the NCGAG and it’s pioneering spirit will prove to be a new way of doing things in the music industry.

From track 1 to track 17 you will enjoy the moving, uplifting, hand clapping, foot stomping sounds of artist like Warren Caldwell, Shontae, Anthony Jones and the UWF Mass Choir….Be sure to check out the up and comers like Mr. Johnnie Foster and Cin~Sier yall with that Chicago style “Goodtime”. Of course some industry sophmores are in the mix as well and still giving it to the people like the champions that they are. Kim Person, Brotha2Brotha and Frank Morrison-Henderson are already known to the CD Baby Family and will NOT let you down here. Mercy and Grace round out the project from Nation of Praise featuring Mr. Jaye Nixon on leadz, a former Savoy records artist. THIS ALBUM IS SIMPLY A NEEDLE DROP!