WELCOME TO 1159 AND COUNTING DOWN BLOG PAGE

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE - AND MORE IMPORTANT- HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

I am so thrilled to be providing you with a sneak peak of my new book cover for THE FEATHER & THE SWORD.   It is my desire to have this exciting book available through Amazon.com by December 31, 2017.    I can't think of a more appropriate way to begin a New Year (2018) than with TRUTH that we can share with everyone in our daily sphere of influence.   

Apologists today would love for everyone to embrace homosexuality as the norm, but Church Leaders and Christians must not endorse or condone what God calls an abomination and a sin He abhors.     Yes, we are to love those who are in the gay and lesbian lifestyle, and have compassion for them in their plight.  However, we must never mistake our bestowing the Love of Jesus on them as a stamp of approval for their choice of living in sexual sin.   

I chose the title of "The Feather & The Sword" for several reasons; first, the feather symbolizes the gentle touch or "feather stroke" we give with the Love of Jesus towards others; and The Sword symbolizes the power and strength of the Truth of God.   Both the Feather and The Sword points to Jesus Christ--and what I call "the divine rub" - The LOVE & TRUTH together is what brings an individual into the "Totality of Salvation, Deliverance and Eternal Right Standing with Our Heavenly Father.   The Love of Jesus is not what gets anyone into heaven, but rather, "The truth that sets the captives free" (John 8:32).    In truth, "the divine rub of LOVE and TRUTH" are needed for every sinner today.   

Most Christians do well in loving the homosexual who comes into the church today.  Where they tend to be less effective is in sharing the Truth that homosexuality is a sin that God calls an abomination.  Christians CANNOT only LOVE the gay or lesbian--we also have the responsibility to point them to TRUTH.   So many folks  in Christendom today are working so hard to get homosexuals into their church-- and indeed, it is a great first step in reaching out to the gay community and their need to be "set free from the bondage of sexual sin".   However, commendable as it may be, Christians are loving these precious souls right into hell if they are not leading them to the need for repentance.    It is our responsibility to let these individuals know that homosexuality is a sin and that gays and lesbians will not enter the kingdom of heaven.  (1 Corinthians 6:11)   But many Christians are intimidated or afraid to "offend" their homosexual friends and family members with the TRUTH.      What I say to you as a form of both encouragement and warning is:

I WOULD RATHER OFFEND YOU INTO HEAVEN WITH TRUTH THAN LOVE YOU INTO HELL WITH LIES 

I have heard it said, and I have said it a few times myself, "Truth hurts, but it sets you free".   I was 25 years old and a living as a proud gay man in Northern California when a young, beautiful Latin gal walked up and boldly told me that homosexuals can't get into heaven.  As she blew cigarette smoke in my face, she added, "It's true, all gays and lesbians will end up in hell".    Needless to say, I was highly offended at this seeming obnoxious little twit, but the Seed of Truth was deposited in my heart that day-- and it began to germinate over time.   I chewed on what she had said for many days, but inside, I knew that what she was saying was true.   There was something inside of me that knew that beyond what seemed like a hateful thing to hear, it was actually exactly what I needed to hear at the time.     Again, I reiterate, YES, I was OFFENDED and yet, I knew deep inside this gal had told me the TRUTH-- the same TRUTH that soon afterwards would "set me free".   I gave my life to Jesus Christ--recognized that homosexual is a sin and I repented and my life has NEVER been the same.  (This was almost 29 years ago).

As an interesting side note, I ended up marrying this same bold, feisty, little Latin beauty and together, she and I became Youth Leaders (and I returned back to God's Original Blueprint for my life-- His Plans and purpose for my life has continued for almost 29 years now)  GLORY TO GOD!   

This is why I have written "The Feather & The Sword".  Church Leaders and Christians SHOULD NEVER COMPROMISE or water-down THE TRUTH THAT SETS THE CAPTIVES FREE!   I praise God that someone had the courage to tell me the truth 29 years ago-- if folks only "Loved me with The Love of Jesus" but never showed me my need for repentance, I would not be the Servant of God I am today (and more important, I would not be going to heaven when I pass from this world into eternity).    

I encourage you to get a copy of my new book "The Feather & The Sword" through Amazon.com (Book and Kindle).   I am feverishly striving towards achieving an publishing date of December 31, 2017.  I appreciate all of your prayers folks!

May God richly bless you this holiday season.   Be blessed and be a blessing to someone else today in Jesus' name.   Amen! 

Love, Prayers, and Blessings, 

Jay

  

WELCOME TO 1159 AND COUNTING DOWN

November 29, 2017

Hey everyone, I am thrilled to announce that I am in the final stages of completing my new book entitled ""The Feather And The Sword".    The Holy Spirit has inspired me to share the powerful message of what I refer to as "The Divine Rub"; The Love of Jesus Christ and The Sword of Truth.    Many Christians and Church Leaders are doing a great job of bestowing the Love of Jesus on members of the gay community who come into the church today.  I respectfully refer to this as "the feather stroke of the love of Jesus".  However, what these same Saints are not doing is sharing the truth that homosexuality is a sin that God abhors.   This is the second side of "the Divine Rub" (The Sword of Truth).    If we do not share the Love of Jesus AND The Word of Truth with these precious souls, we are loving them right into hell.  These individuals must recognize homosexuality is a sin and that there is need for repentance.   If all we are doing is bestowing the Love of Jesus on these precious souls, and not leading them into all truth, then again I regrettably say, we are loving them right into hell.

In my new book I share a Phrase The Holy Spirit placed on my heart:

I WOULD RATHER OFFEND YOU INTO HEAVEN WITH TRUTH THAN TO LOVE YOU INTO HELL WITH THE ABSENCE OF TRUTH. 

The Holy Spirit has revealed to me that there are three demonic principalities that have been assigned to The Church today; The Spirit of Fear, Intimidation and Manipulation.    It is Satan's goal to keep Christians and Church Leaders (Pastors) from speaking the unadulterated Truth of God.  He desires that Pastors (and Christians) keep from sharing the Truth in the Holy Scriptures that "may offend someone in the congregation"; or, the Pastor will alter Truth to appease what itching ears want to hear; or the Pastor will omit these passages of holy scripture in efforts to protect "the attendance and the "tithers" and avoid what may stir up discomfort (which is another word for "Conviction").  

The Holy Spirit has also shown me a vision of what is soon to come to America in the near future.

THE VISION:    In my vision, I was sitting in a church with a large congregation of Saints.  The Pastor was up behind the podium and he was preaching from 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (where Apostle Paul is telling his congregants in the Church of Corinth there is a list of sins that will keep people out of heaven.   In this list, he shares that drunkards, liars, adulterers and homosexual will not enter the kingdom of heaven.)    The Pastor, in my vision, was lovingly sharing, in particular, about the issue of homosexuality being a sin.  Suddenly, the doors in the back of the church swung open and five men dressed in military uniforms, wearing blue helmets and carrying military rifles, marched up the center of the aisle; they were reciting an "addendum to the First Amendment of the Constitution of The United States of America (Freedom of Speech and Religion), and that the Pastor was in violation of hate speech and a hate crime (because he was preaching against homosexuality).   The Military Officer in charge handcuffed the pastor and they lead him out the back door of the church.   As they were leaving, the Pastor assured His congregation that everything was going to be okay and to pray.    I was sitting in the front row of the church and join everyone in silence and shock.   Suddenly, like sprouting weeds in a garden, individuals began to rise up and started applauding - about 30 members of the congregation standing gathered in the center of aisle and began cheering and declaring, "This is another victory for the LGBT community".   

(End of Vision)

I believe The Holy Spirit was revealing to me that the so called "violation" the Pastor in the vision was guilty of was  "Hate Speech" and "Hate Crime".   These terms are going to become the norm in America-- which means that anything that is preached from the Church pulpits in our nation that may "offend" someone who is living in these sinful lifestyles (homosexuality, adultery, drunkards, etc.,) (but homosexuality in particular with this vision), will be charged with a violation of hate speech or hate crime.   I also believe this vision indicates that there will be gays and lesbians who will be among congregations and will serve as "watchman" who will readily report when any Pastor begins to preach truth from the Word of God.    (Duly Note:   After pondering on this vision, I was curious about the blue helmets these military soldiers were wearing and I began to research and found that the United Nations military wear blue helmets.   So in my vision, this could indicate that the U.N. Military Forces were now playing an active role in what very well may be a part of The One World Government.)

Saints of God, we are currently experiencing a short season of God's mercy in this nation and I do believe America will still be judged for her Sin of Lawlessness (Sexual Perversion, Abortions, and so many other acts of defiance against God Almighty.   The time is fast approaching when there is going to be a shift in our government leadership and a new world order will eventually be established.   The day will come when Holy Bibles are outlawed and replaced with a One World Religion Bible; and a One-World Religion will be required in all houses of worship throughout the world.   Also, Great Persecution is coming to our nation, but rest assured that with great persecution also comes GREAT REVIVAL.   The Holy Spirit has revealed to me that a great revival is coming to The United States of America, but it will not be as many Christians believe it will come and in what form.   He has told me that "Revival will arise from up out of the ashes and debris of great destruction".    Revival will bring the refiner's fire to God's People -- The Bride will be holy and sanctified.    In great darkness and chaos, God's People will serve as "The Salt of the Earth" and "Light of the World" and many souls will give their lives to Jesus Christ.   

I am asking myself, how do I conclude this blog page after sharing such things, so I will simply say, "GOD IS LARGE AND IN CHARGE!   GOD IS IN CONTROL!    REJOICE SAINTS OF GOD BECAUSE HIS WORD TELLS US THAT IN THE END WE WIN-- THANK YOU JESUS!     

May Father God richly bless you all during this holiday season.   And let us all declare what the real reason for the season is-- The Birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.   Have a joyful, blessed Christmas with your family and friends. 

Be blessed and be a blessing to someone today in Jesus' Name!  

Jay

WELCOME TO 1159 AND COUNTING DOWN BLOG PAGE

November 26, 2017

This morning I began studying 2 Timothy, Chapter 4 -- Apostle Paul was giving his final instructions to his servant and friend, Timothy.   As I read through each passage of holy scripture, I found one thing that stood out to me most-- Apostle Paul KNEW he was close to the Finish Line of Heaven.   He was aware that he was about to wrap up his final season (assignment) here on earth.  Many folks would debate on whether or not God lets a person know that their Final Season here on earth is coming to an end.   I personally believe God does speak to certain people about how they are now running in the Final Mile in the race towards Heaven's Finish Line.   

As I pondered on the things Apostle Paul admonished young Timothy with in his final instructions as he approached the finish line towards heaven, I began to question what advice I would leave behind to those individuals whom I may have had the privilege and honor of guiding, challenging, teaching and inspiring in their faith walk.    Like leaving a legacy, not of materialism or fortune, or a tangible inheritance (which we all should stride to do so if we are able to do so for our children and grandchildren), but what wisdom did we bestow on those God allowed our lives to touch along the way.  

I know I have little to nothing of great worldly value to give to my son as an inheritance, but I do believe, nevertheless, that I do have a legacy of my faith to leave as an example of how my son should stride to become more like Jesus Christ everyday!    As I have thought about the issue of leaving a legacy it has brought back fond memories of when my son, then age 11 years old, looked me in the eye and said, "Dad, you are always so nice to EVERYONE!"    Ever since I became a born-again Christian, folks have taken notice of my having The Gift of Mercy and The Gift of Exhortation (All Glory To God).   I love people and I always want the very BEST for them in everything they endure in life.   I know I've made a hill of mistakes along my journey, but I have also seen God turn those "hills of mistakes" into "Mountains of His Mercy and Grace"-- Praise God that He turns around what the enemy meant for evil for good.   I know God has saved me from myself (and the sinful nature I am working to overcome daily)-- many times.    I feel there have been times when I have cashed in on His Mercy far too many times-- but I am reminded in His Word "His mercies are NEW every morning".     This is not a pass to just keep repeating the same sins again and again.   The Holy Spirit is an expert on revealing to us how we can overcome anything that tends to try to cause an entanglement in our lives.    I praise God for all the chains that have fallen from my life and the shackles that have been loosed because Jesus set this captive free.   Amen?    

Apostle Paul was young Timothy's mentor and in the aforementioned passages of scripture (2 Timothy, Chapter 4) Paul is giving final instructions to Timothy because Paul knew he was fast approaching heaven's finish line.    I pose a question to you my friends!    If you knew you were on the last stretch and stride in the race towards heaven's finish line, what is the last advice or words of encouragement would you leave to those you mentor, disciple, fellowship with in your sphere of influence?      

We all should be living as if our tomorrow may never come and today is our last day on earth!   Would you be able to say without a shadow of doubt that you have run the race to the best of your ability and have been obedient to do the "assignments" Father God has asked you to do?   I know, for me, I make a sincere attempt to live today with the idea of fulfilling whatever Father God has asked of me to do in my daily walk with Jesus.      Jesus Christ is the Author and Finisher of my faith and I desire to complete every assignment to the best of my abilities before I am called Home to Heaven.   My personal prayer has been, "Lord, please allow me to complete the work God has asked me to do and may I be able to leave this world when you say "Jay, It's time to go home", knowing that I have been successful in advancing the Kingdom of God during my life here on earth.      

My friends, I pray that you always are found fulfilling all that Father God has assigned you to do and that Jesus Christ is in the center of every area of your life.   Live your life like today is your last day my friends.    Be blessed and be a blessing today. 

Much love, prayers and blessings, 

Jay

 

STANDING IN GOD'S WAITING ROOM! (GOD'S TIMING IS RARELY IN SYNCH WITH OUR WRISTWATCH)

Welcome to 1159AndCountingDown Blog Page 

Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint".

I remember so vividly watching my mom flutter around the house on a mission to rid the house of hibernating dust bunnies and stale odors.   She would insist that I and my brothers, her four "volunteers" (NOT!), open up all the windows; shake out every rug that wasn't nailed down, and bring out every cleanser and air freshener stored under the sinks in the kitchen, the pantry and the bathroom.

As mom reviews her check-list, you would recognize this familiar scenario as "Spring Cleaning".   But what if my mom would have begun shouting such orders in the middle of Winter?   We would insist that she was in the wrong season in her efforts to do "Her Annual Spring Cleaning" project.   The massive snow drifts that now block your front door due to harsh winter weather would prevent Mom (and her "team") from doing everything that is on "The To-Do List" for the Annual Spring Cleaner.   

Why did I even bring up this story at all?   Because I remember that as the snow and ice began to melt, and the first signs of flower sprouts breaking through and into the full view of the sun, there was an expectation; an excitement that the seasons were changing.  A person would almost have to experience five to six months of a long, cold winter season (ie., Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota, New York, and other states) to understand the excitement and great anticipation of seeing nature awaken like Rip Van Winkle and his long winter's nap.   There were days, when I would sit wrapped in a thick layer of blankets and homemade quilts, longing to see the snow and ice melt away.    As much as I wanted it to happen when I wanted it to happen, it was really all about the Cycle of Seasons which God Himself has determined since the beginning of time.   Speaking of "time"-- no matter how much I desired for Spring to come sooner, it was always on God's Timing...His Perfect Timing, that Spring did finally arrive-- and with Springtime life sprang forth and reminded mankind of just how magnificent and glorious is Our Creator's Artistic Design of Creation. 

Many of us have heard the phrase "All On God's Timing".  Or "God's Timing is Always Perfect".  These well known phrases sound good until a person has to adhere to what really lies behind these sayings-- waiting until God says things will happen.  I realize God is  Omnipotent (All-Knowing) concerning everything in our lives.   He knows what lies ahead for my life and  yet, this doesn't stop me from wanting to get things done on "My Timing".   I sometimes feel as if He is lagging in His timing because it doesn't mesh with when I think, pray or hope things happen.    Admittedly, God's Timing is Always Perfect -- and He is God and I am not so who am I too argue - Right?

Most of my family and friends know that I have often described myself as a "race horse at the starting gate"....just waiting for that Starting Shot to be fired.    I am like that horse caged in and anxiously awaiting for the little gate to spring open so I can dash toward the finish line and win the prize.   I have always been a competitive guy who hits the ground running.  I am a stickler for following the rules, but this doesn't mean that I am not always looking for a fair and honest shortcut or an alternate quicker route. God knows this about my character and I believe this is why often times He doesn't reveal to me too much of His plans for my life because He knows I would take off in a mad dash into my future and try to fulfill everything without seeking His wisdom.     I'm learning, the older I get, that I can no longer tackle tasks and assignments on my own strength--- because my body isn't in its early twenties anyone.  Can anyone else relate?   But there is also the biblical truth found in the holy scripture below:

John 15:5 Jesus says,  "I am the Vine; you are the branches.  If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing".

 So as I enter into this new season in Grand Rapids, Michigan, my childhood stomping grounds, I must allow "God's Timing" to unfold all that He desires for me to do in any assignment He gives me over the next few months.   I also must grow LESS anxious as the Race Horse at the gate-- because God may sound the Starting Shot at any time and I want to be ready and focused to run the race HE has planned out for me-- a race towards "heaven's finish line"with hopes of crossing it with great success.   I also must remember that "Jesus is The VINE and I am a Branch and that as long as I remain connected with Him, and He with me, that I will able to bear much fruit.  However, apart from Him I AM ABLE TO NOTHING!   Duly Note:   This applies to ALL authentic believers and followers of The Lord Jesus Christ!!

I pray that over the next few months I will be able to be a resource of encouragement, inspiration, knowledge and godly insight, and a blessing to all of you who follow this blog page.    

ANNOUNCEMENTS:     I AM BEGINNING A YOUTUBE PODCAST TITLED "THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM" AND MY NEW RADIO PROGRAM CALLED "1159 WITH JAY HUDSON" WHERE I WILL DISCUSS CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS IN TODAY'S SOCIETY, PROVIDE BIBLICAL INSIGHTS AND AS THE HOLY SPIRIT LEADS ME TO DO SO, I WILL ALSO PROVIDE PROPHETIC WORDS.       PLEASE SHARE THIS BLOG SPOT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.  AND I WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS AND OTHER BLOG SPOT ARTICLES.   

MAY FATHER GOD'S FAVOR SHINE UPON YOU EVERYWHERE YOU TO GO!   BE ABUNDANTLY BLESSED AND BE A BLESSING TO SOMEONE TODAY IN JESUS' NAME! 

LOVE, PRAYERS, AND BLESSINGS, 

J.

 

THE GOOD SHEPHERD'S SHEEP KNOW HIS VOICE AND FOLLOW HIM!

Welcome To 1158AndCountingDown Blog Page

Therefore Jesus said again, "Very truly I tell you, I am the Gate for the Sheep.  All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the Sheep have not listened to them".

(John 10:7-8) 

I must preface what I am about to talk about by giving credit to a precious Sister-In-Christ named Brenda Strohbehn Henderson (petalfromthebasket.com).   As I began writing my blog page today, I realized that I have been running around in circles; trying to get everything on my "To Do List" done today.   My personality type is one who sets goals and objectives daily and if I am not successful in fulfilling EVERYTHING on the "To Do List", I feel like I have not had a productive day.     This frustration rolls into the time I attempt to spend time in The SECRET PLACE with Father God.   As much as I would like to say that I discard any of the personal frustration from earlier in the day, I tend to bring a pocketful of disappointment in myself into my fellowship and communion time with Father God.  I am a former semi-professional actor of stage, and as "talented" as I may have thought I was when I was younger (and far better looking LOL), Father God could see right through any attempts to mask my inner frustrations.   There are so many VOICES that continually vying for our attention-- these "Voices", though some have very legitimate things to share, there are other "voices" (what I refer to those inner voices that tend to cause inner turmoil on the battlefield of the mind.   Can anyone out there relate to this?    

Again, may I draw your attention to Blogger and Writer, Sister Brenda, and her beautiful Blog page.  

It was while I was researching to find particular scriptures in the Bible that referred to voices that continue vying for our attention throughout our entire day (and night), that Sister Brenda's Blog Page showed up on my IPAD screen.   As I read her incredible blog addressing the very same issue I was planning to address today in my blog, I felt comforted to know that I was not the only one who has the challenge of following the right voices.  From this point in my blog page, I would like to refer you to this precious sister's website because she so eloquently shares about this same challenge of hearing all of the voices (good and bad) that continue in attempt to pull us away from hearing The Good Shepherd's Voice.   Her website address is as follows:     petalsfromthebasket.com    

THE SHEEP HEAR THEIR SHEPHERD'S VOICE AND FOLLOW:
The Bible describes our relationship with God as in the relationship between JESUS (The Good Shepherd) and WE (The Sheep).    We must understand that the responsibility of a Shepherd (at least in the Middle Eastern Culture) is to protect the sheep from danger and enemies.  The shepherd makes sure  that the sheep have nourishing food to eat and sufficient clean water to drink. But the Middle Eastern agricultural practices are very different than ours are in North America.  There a shepherd does not keep the sheep penned up for 24 hours a day and bring fresh food and clean water to the sheep like we do here.   A Middle Eastern shepherd does not use a dog to herd the sheep like we sometimes do here.  And the Middle Eastern shepherd also does not use a dog to to herd the sheep from pasture to pasture as is done in Australia and New Zealand.  In the Middle East, sheep may be penned up for safety at night. But during the day, the shepherd directs his or her sheep, not with barriers, and not with force, but with his or her voice.  The shepherd talks to the sheep and sheep follow the shepherd because they know the voice of the shepherd.   

JOHN 10:2-4 says, "The ONE WHO ENTERS by the GATE is THE SHEPHERD OF THE SHEEP.   The GATEKEEPER opens the gate for HIM, and the SHEEP LISTEN TO HIS VOICE..  HE CALLS HIS OWN SHEEP BY NAME AND LEADS THEM OUT.  When he has BROUGHT OUT ALL HIS OWN,  HE goes on ahead of them, and HIS SHEEP FOLLOW HIM BECAUSE THEY KNOW HIS VOICE".  (My Emphasis)    

DULY NOTE:   The terms used in this aforementioned passage of scripture:   

1)   The ONE WHO ENTERS by The GATE (Shepherd of the Sheep)

2)  The GATEKEEPER (This is not referring to The Shepherd who is there to bring His Own Sheep out of         the gate of protection during the night hours.   The "Gatekeeper" was an individual who made his or her    
     wages on providing a "Lodging for the Sheep during the night hours)" until The Shepherd Came to          
     Bring His Own Sheep Out.

3)  The SHEEP LISTEN TO HIS (The Shepherd's) VOICE

4)  The Shepherd Calls His Own Sheep BY NAME and LEADS THEM OUT.

5)  When He has brought out ALL HIS OWN, He goes on AHEAD OF THEM; and

6)  HIS SHEEP FOLLOW HIM Because They KNOW HIS VOICE 

In conclusion, my friends, I want to encourage and challenge all of us to pray for great clarity in our ability to hear (and discern) the Voice of The Good Shepherd (JESUS CHRIST).   We all experience MANY other voices that constantly bombard us -- demanding our attention, and although there are some very legitimate voices we should adhere (and tend to) (ie., our spouse, our children, spouse, "paying Cesar what is due Cesar (Bills Y'All) etc.,) we must also be certain that these "voices" (legitimate and those that the enemy will use to distract us from taking the time to get before GOD in THE SECRET PLACE and spend time in quiet fellowship), we DESPERATELY NEED to spend time in(Your "War Room of Prayer), or driving on the way to work....wherever Your Secret Place with God may be)-- More than ever, especially with Heaven's Clock that reads "11:59 and counting down" we need divine Wisdom, Discernment, Encouragement, Holy Insights and Instructions from The Holy Spirit of God in This Final Moment.   

I love you all and pray that I am able to serve as a resource of encouragement, inspiration, blessing (and The Holy Spirit may impart a divine perspective that may challenge you in your daily with Jesus Christ and Almighty God).     I would love to hear from you.  Getting feedback is a great gift to a blogger-- we need the encouragement as much as we desire to encourage you, our readership (my friends).  Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment on this blog site or you can contact me with your comments, thoughts, suggestions, healthy critiques or concerns at:   JHudson1159@gmail. com 

Be blessed and be a blessing to someone else today in Jesus' Name! 

J.  
 

 

 

WE MUST WORK WHILE IT IS DAYLIGHT FOR THE NIGHT IS COMING WHEN WE WON'T BE ABLE TO DO SO!

WELCOME TO THE 1159AndCountingDown Blog Page

"While it is daytime, we must do the work of Him who sent me (Jesus).  Night is coming, when no one can work.  While I (Jesus) am in the world, I am the light of the world." (John 9:4) (My emphasis)

Duly Note:    There is a sense of urgency in what Jesus is telling his disciples in the passage of scripture in The Holy Bible-- He tells them to "while it is daytime, we MUST do the WORK of Him (God) who sent me (Jesus).  (My emphasis)   Jesus also declares in this passage of scripture that "While I am in the world, I am the light of the world".   Now please allow me to show you another scripture found in Matthew 5:13-16 (See Below)

"You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?  It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.  You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and it under a basket, but on a lampstand, ad it gives light to all who are in the house.  Let Your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven". (Matthew 5:13-16)

So we see that the Bible refers to JESUS as "the light of the world" (John 9:4); and then we see how "Disciples/Christians of Christ" are referred to as "light of the world" and "salt of the earth". (Matthew 5:13-16)--however, notice that this aforementioned passage of scripture speaks of the importance of the "light" and the "salt"-- in short, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of our being "the light" by NOT hiding it under a basket - but let us BOLDLY shine brightly on the HILL (Mountain) for ALL to see (and that they will come to hear TRUTH that will set them free); and Jesus also warns about us (the salt) losing its flavor (demonstration of divine passion and the only thing that can satisfy the hunger in our souls); and if the salt (our godly passion for God's Truth) does lose its' flavor, then our testimony falls to the ground only to be discarded (ignored by men as the useless salt is trampled under their foot).    ONLY SATAN IS THE ONE WHO IS ALWAYS UNDER OUR FEET BELOVED OF GOD.  

I wanted to preface this blog with the aforementioned scriptures because I do have a strong urgency in my spirit that as long as it daylight--which I believe means that there is coming a time when Christians are NOT going to have the liberty of Free Speech and Freedom of Religion because Christianity, God, Jesus Christ and THE WORD are all defensive because the TRUTH contradicts their choice of sinful sexuality and lifestyle.    Christians will begin to be seen as "The Resistance" to an "Progressive  (Liberal) One World Government.    Our preaching The Word of God will become "Hate Speech" and our sincere approach to "Deliverance Ministry" (casting out demons, and BOLDLY sharing our testimony of what we have now because of our acceptance of the free Gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ, Our Lord and King; and as we boldly unite in declaring God's Faithfulness and His Transformation Power in our lives.   

Just as many individuals, including the religious leaders in those times when Jesus had his earthly ministry and taught TRUTH that set the captives free, AND, demonstrated the Reality and Power of God through the glorious display of miracles, signs and wonders.    There were countless individuals who appeared before the kings and rulers of that day-- sharing how a man name Jesus healed them of blindness (John 9:1-12); casting out of demons (the Gerasenes Demoniac - Mark 5:1-20); 

DULY NOTE:   Matthew 10:7-8 (The Ministry of The Twelve)

Jesus gave final instructions to His Disciples--the same instructions that He is still speaking to us today:   Jesus said, "As you go, preach this message:  The kingdom of heaven os near.  HEAL THE SICK. RAISE THE DEAD, CLEANSE THE LEPERS, DRIVE OUT DEMONS.  Freely you have received, freely give".   (My Emphasis)

Saints of God, I have shared all of these things so that you would be encouraged to no longer sit on Your God-given Gifts and Talents.   God blessed you with those gifts (Natural and Spiritual) that you will use them to "advance the kingdom of God....and that He WOULD RECEIVE ALL THE GLORY, HONOR AND PRAISE!    Some of you have been given incredible gifts from God and you have laid them on a shelf in some closet and there they sit - gathering dust and useless - wasting away!  Am I being too harsh?   I stand apologetic on this matter because if ever there was a time to picking those dusty gifts and talents up, it is now.  I am praying that you would experience a REKINDLING....a FIERY RENEWED PASSION for the God-given/assigned Gifts (Natural and Spiritual) you thought you would never use again.  Someone right now is saying "I am too old and surely God can't use me now---I have retired and I don't sing, play an instrument or really get "involved" with the local church anymore".   Well, I am telling you, in The Name of Jesus Christ, and by the divine instruction of The Holy Spirit, that you rise up out of your Lazy Boy Chair and dust off those gifts that you stashed away in the attic; or in an old barn; or in a tool shed in the backyard.  Do Not Hide "Your LIGHT under a basket beloved of God!   And Use The SALT to bring Godly savor and flavor into someone's life today!      

And by the way, with all due respect, WE NEVER RETIRE WITH THE CALL GOD HAS ON OUR LIVES WHILE WE ARE STILL HERE ON EARTH (We may slow down the pace as we get older, but we still press ONWARD and UPWARD in the things of God (AMEN?)-- Our assignment on earth may change the day JESUS, The Author and Finisher of Our Faith, says "It's Our Time To Go Home to God and His Kingdom".   Although some of us will "depart from this world and enter God's Heavenly Kingdom", I also believe there will be plenty to do up in heaven as well- so The Reality of RETIREMENT (as much as it feels good for a season) is over folks!

In conclusion, I am always trying to "Work while it is still daylight" and I am always thinking of creative ways in which I am able to SPREAD THE TRUTH to those who are lost and wandering about with The Shepherd to guide them safely home.   I am adamant about our need to utilize  EVERY media resources and venues we can to spread The Gospel of Jesus Christ.  In saying this, I am beginning a new YouTube Channel entitled:   The Elephant In The Room at 1159.    I won't give away much, but I will say that I will be discussing many issues that folks nowadays choose to ignore and call "The Elephant in the Room".    I want to talk about hot topics in today's world (and The Church) in loving BOLDNESS and straight talk because it is 11:59 on heaven's Time Clock and it is counting down folks!   So join with me in doing everything you can with EVERY gift and talent God has given you to display HIS GLORY IN THIS FINAL MOMENT.    Please stop by my new YouTube Channel - The Elephant in The Room @ 1159.    I appreciate all of our prayers and if you feel lead by The Holy Spirit to financial support this ministry "1159" (and counting down) I do have a new PayPal Account that will allow you to do so.    

As always be blessed and be a blessing to someone else today in Jesus' Name!     Love you guys and gals!  Please keep your comments coming - it encourages me and lets me know I may be speaking inspiration into someone's life.    Thank you all!  

J.

WILLIE WONKA HAS NOTHING ON GOD'S GLORIOUS AND MAJESTIC WORLD OF PURE DELIGHTS THAT AWAIT HIS CHILDREN IN HEAVEN

 WELCOME TO 1159AndCountingDown.Blog Spot

WILLIE WONKA'S "WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION" IS NOTHING IN COMPARISON TO GOD'S GLORIOUS AND MAJESTIC "WORLD OF HOLY AND REAL CREATION OF UNFATHOMABLE DELIGHTS" THAT AWAIT HIS CHILDREN IN HEAVEN 

NOW HOW IS THAT FOR A TITLE FOR A BLOG PAGE?    Stay with me folks, and it will all pan out and make more sense as you read on. 

Hey Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I pray you have been having a blessed and productive day in The Lord on this beautiful Thursday, August 24, 2017.    My day has been a bit hectic, but only because I wake up with an active mind and a long list of "THINGS THAT I NEEDED TO GET DONE".    It seems the older I get the longer that "TO DO LIST" gets.   Perhaps it is because, when we are in our early fifties and grow older, we finally arrive at a place in our lives where those things that we once thought were so crucial (successful careers, financial gains, fame, and the best of everything we thought life had to offer) aren't what is important at all.  When a man finds himself facing the reality that he is now in his mid-fifties, early sixties, his paradigm shifts -- he slows down and begins to stop and smell the roses-- the very same blooms that he has planted in a garden that he never took the time to establish and nurture.  Okay, enough with the "middle age blues" song and  dance stuff folks.    Who am I kidding?  Yes, I may find myself not caring as much with what other people may think of me.   And yes, I live in the real world where I am no longer young, fresh and as agile as I was in my early twenties.  But phooey on deciding to grow old, crotchety and inactive.  Who cares that when I go out to a restaurant the waitress just assumes I am a Senior Citizen and I get 10% off of my bill when I go to cash out my ticket...Thank you God!    

I jokingly tell folks I meet that it is a good day when I wake up and my name and picture isn't in the Obituary section of the local newspaper.      If I am still breathing then God still has work for me to do.  I am determined to keep pressing on in this life and when you surrender your life to God and His plans and purposes He has for you, I tell people to get ready, hold on tight, and prepare for the ride of your life.  My body may be 54 years old, but in my spirit, I am in my early twenties and by His grace and mercy, I believe I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me - Amen?   You know folks, there are even times when I find myself standing in utter AWE and AMAZEMENT at God's Faithfulness to His Promises.   It is as I stand in this amazement that I oftentimes feel like a young boy who is experiencing things in life for the first time again.    

When God reveals Himself to me in various ways, I find myself becoming giddy like a child in a candy store (much like the scene when Willie Wonka finally reveals his secret "World of Pure Imagination" to the chosen few children, who have found the Golden Ticket.   As they enter the mysterious majestic building and welcome the children into The Grand Room of Sugary Delights, the children scramble about discovering that everything they see is edible; oversized flowers that have cream-filled centers; a river made of hot chocolate with billowy marshmallow fluff; and taffy vines that cling to on an edible white chocolate picket fence and so much more..    If it is not obvious to you yet, the 1971 movie entitled "Willie Wonka and The Chocolate Factory" was one of my favorite childhood movies.  The big reveal of The Grand Room and everything being edible and made of candy always had me drooling and salivating.   As kids the only time that I and my three brothers saw candy was at Halloween.  Now I realize that in certain Christian camps today, parents forbid their kids from celebrating this holiday because it is affiliated with Satan.    I personally would offer kids today to celebrate a Harvest Festival at a local church where they still can dress in appropriate costumes and play games and receive plenty of candy.   However, back in the early 1970's my parents only saw the holiday as something that allowed kids to dress up in fun costumes and go door to door in the neighborhood and get candy dropped in a brown shopping bag.      I must interject with a confession here:    I didn't use a chintzy old brown shopping bag-- I used one of those large plastic Yard Leave Bags; and yes, I would circulate the entire neighborhood (up to twelve blocks minimum), come home and put on a different costume and try to change my voice and go to the same houses for a second portion of goodies.     I know folks, I desperately needed Jesus back then!   My attempts to "double-dip" in the second time around disguise wasn't always a success because some elderly lady would yell at me, "Say, you've already been here earlier...that's you isn't Jerry Hudson?"   Of course, this would abruptly end my quest for seconds.   I wouldn't be as bummed about failing to bring in more sweet loot a second time around, but I would be frustrated that I wasn't able to disguise my voice when I hollered "Trick or Treat" at those same doors again. (Perhaps that is why I became an actor when I grew up-- I learned how to disguise my voice as I studied the various accents from other countries.   I do a mean "British Accent" and I'm not too bad with a "French Accent" but I sometimes slip and slide into a "Spanish Accent".)  

Wow, talk about jumping onto a Rabbit Trail?   Sorry about that folks.   Let me get back to my story about Willie Wonka!      I found the idea of those children tearing open the wrappers in the chocolate bars in hopes of finding the Golden Ticket very intriguing.   In fact, for weeks after watching :"Willie Wonka and The Chocolate Factory" I would rush out to the local drug store down the street and buy as many Hershey's chocolate bars I could with the money I would make from my paper route.  Of course, I know this sort of thing only happens in Hollywood movies, and I never found a "golden ticket" when I tore open those wrappers, but I never stopped looking for one either (and I had more than my share of stomach aches from all of that chocolate)..   Oh, but to be one of the chosen few who would retrieve the Golden Ticket-- and now I can say that when I met Jesus Christ and made Him my Lord and Savior, I received THE GOLDEN TICKET (The Gift of Salvation and Redemption through Jesus Christ).   A peculiar analogy?  Perhaps!.   But I do think it is a very approprie homology indeed!    Like the Dove Award Winning Song by Christian Artists Mercy Me - I CAN ONLY IMAGINE - It is true!   I can only imagine, or perhaps I really can't begin to fathom at all, what Heaven is going to be like.    A Golden Ticket (The Gift of Salvation because of Jesus Christ Our Lord, Savior and Redeemer) and Streets of Pure Gold?   I have heard from those whom have experienced The Blessed Privilege of Visiting Heaven that the flowers sing, the River of Life is like a shiny sheet of glass and the colors are breathtaking and almost indescribable!   (And for those of you who know me well, I have already been asking God for a couple of Zebras grazing in the backyard of the home Jesus has built for me-- who knows, maybe these zebras (and all animals in heaven) will also be able to talk!   This is why I say it is almost Unfathomable to begin to imagine what Heaven is going to be like.   

.      

1 Corinthians 2:9New King James Version (NKJV)

⁹ But as it is written:

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.

Thank you for visiting my blog page and please stop by again.    Also, please tell your family and friends about this new blog page.   Stay tuned, because I never know when The Holy Spirit may give me a Prophetic Word or a Word of Knowledge, or have me share a divine Vision or Dream for You (and/or The Body of Christ).   Be blessed and be a blessing to someone today in Jesus' Name!   

Much Love, Prayers and blessings Ya'all!   :}

 J.

CARRYING HEAVY LOADS THAT GOD NEVER INTENDED FOR US TO CARRY IN LIFE!

Welcome to 1159AndCountingDown Blog Page

Hello My Brothers and Sisters-In-Christ,

I pray your Wednesday is blessed so far.    I have had the most tremendous week so far and I love to testify of God's faithfulness, love, mercy and gentle Hand of kindness.   In giving GOD ALL THE GLORY, I share the following.   I moved here to Arkansas on May 10, 2017 with a few pieces of furniture, some clothing, my side-kick Toby (my Bichon Freise) and a broken heart.    I was leaving a relationship where my former wife and I were not on the same sheet of God's Plan for our lives.    We were basically heading in two very different directions.    God changed things in a fast amount of time and within a six day period I was arriving in Arkansas-- a place I had never been to before, but I came here out of obedience and the leading of The Holy Spirit of God.   Now let us fast forward to today, August 23, 2017 and so much has changed for the good - praise God!      My once bare little home is now full of furnishings with beautiful furniture, framed art work on the walls, three fully furnished bedrooms, a washer and dryer, an awesome vehicle that was given to me with keys, the PAID IN FULL receipt, the Title and a full tank of gas as well-- and the list of blessings goes on and on.  Please know that if I am boasting I truly boast in the Lord for it is He who I give ALL GLORY!   This is a very big change for me since I have always considered myself to be a minimalist.

I served in the United States Army where you had a ruck sack (duffle bag) and when we were out in the deep dark woods on a "mission" or military exercise, the Army cook would toss us an MRE (Meals Ready to Eat)-- and when you managed to tear those freeze-dried pouches open, you never knew whether you would get a small can of beef stew, green eggs (no lie), or spam (the Army called it ham in a can, but I knew it was really spam (processed with "who knows what").   After the military, I really learned that it was a good thing to always travel light-- too much baggage can hold you back from moving forward sometimes.   Well, I believe it is the same thing that happens to us as Christians.  God has a plan for our lives and sometimes the journey is a long one until we finally reach wherever the Holy Spirit is leading us.   God has never intended for you and I too carry unnecessary baggage on our backs. 

We, as human beings, find ourselves picking up things along the way:   bad habits, wrong relationships, addictions and vices, and STUFF just to try to fill the void that only JESUS can fill in us.   Come on my friends, you all know what I am talking about- Right? 

One example of having too much stuff for the sake of having stuff around to make me feel like I was accomplishing something with the finances God was giving me was when I noticed, one day, while my wife was out shopping (again) for more stuff, that our little space was becoming even smaller-- to some, it may even seem like we were becoming hoarders.   Allow me to continue to share.

My former wife and I lived in a small modular or manufactured home (some use to call these kind of homes "Mobile Homes").   When I was growing up, there was a stigma that came with folks who lived in trailer parks or in a mobile home on the back of some rich family's property.   These folks were also referred to as those who "lived on the wrong side of the tracks".  I remember when I was a boy growing up in an middle class family-- I had a friend whose family was very wealthy.     One day, as I was standing outside of the front door of his parents "House and Gardens Model Home", waiting for him to join me for a day of rough housing in the woods that were about a mile away in an old suburb (The "Forbidden Zone" according to his parents)..  I remember his mother whispering, "Are you still friends with that Hudson Boy?   You know his parents don't have much money sweetheart and these are not the kind of folks your father and I want you to associate with"!   REALLY?    I was so young and didn't really concern myself with any of that Hosh Posh Arrogance.  In fact, it didn't matter to me how much money and fancy things anyone had-- I was a kid,  and I just wanted to go out in the woods and roll around in the mud, climb trees and trudge through the smelly old crick looking for bullfrogs and tadpoles.   These are things kids should be concerning themselves with-- not whether the friends you are playing with are Elitists or Simpletons.    Like my dad always would say, "They all put their pants on the same way-- one leg at a time".   Some would call him a simple man for saying that, but I call him an incredible man of wisdom (and common sense).   I have always said, "I would rather have a certificate in Common Sense than a wall full of degrees of higher education any day".  

Folks can be so prideful and arrogant!    It is no wonder Jesus, in His earthly ministry, hung around with those "who lived on the wrong side of the tracks".  He may have also associated with some of the wealthy at times, but we must remember that the "respectable and highly esteemed" of Jesus' day were the Religious Leaders:  The Pharisees and Sadducee.   Remember this as well-- Jesus called these folks "snakes and vipers" (Matthew 23:33).  He also warned them by saying "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!  You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside, but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean" (Matthew 23:27).   WOW!   You go Jesus!   Now that is keeping things real isn't it!   Jesus saw right straight through their hypocrisy and this is why the religious leaders despised Him.   And then when they began to hear the reports that Jesus was telling folks He was the Promised Messiah, this had to enrage them even more.  I can only imagine what some of them may have been thinking as they would lay on their beds pondering these things about Jesus.  "If He really is The Promised Messiah, I was rebuked and called a viper, a hypocrite, and a whitewashed tomb full of bones that are dead and everything unclean.   My facade is now revealed, but not by any man, but by JESUS Himself.  Oh, I am in serious trouble if I don't get things right between God and I".   But I can only speculate if any of these religious leaders pondered such thoughts on their beds.   In fact, I believe their anger and resentment towards Jesus festered and drove them onward in their goal to kill this man...this Jesus who calls Himself The Son of God....The Messiah and Savior of The World.   Anger and pride together is like an spiritual Atomic Bomb.   As both anger and pride fester and grow it pushes a man to do horrible things-- even crucify the very man who willingly came from heaven when He said to The Father, "Send me.  I will go and save mankind".   This same man (The Son of God) willingly gave His life by being crucified-- hung on a cross at Calvary (Skull Mountain) as the very people whom He came to redeem back unto Our Heavenly Father drove nails in His feet and hands.    THANK YOU JESUS FOR DYING THAT I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE AND I CAN NOW COME UNTO THE FATHER THROUGH YOU AND YOUR PRECIOUS BLOOD YOU SHED ON THE CROSS.   

It is amazing how giving our lives to Jesus Christ changes the way we see things in life.   Growing up I wanted to be a professional Singer (and stage performer).    According to my mom, and some awards and trophies I received in winning talent shows, others thought I had great potential as well.    But life has a way of taking us down roads we never imagined we would find ourselves traveling..   I graduated from high school and while everyone else was readying themselves for going off to college, I was looking for a job that would pay me a couple of pennies above minimum wage.  I was also having to share a house with four or five other guys so we could all afford to live on our own-- staying far from the other option of  having to live in our parents basements until we were in our forties.   Now that is a scary thought-- for the Child and for the Parent!   Then in December 1981, a hard harsh winter storm hit the small suburb where I was raised in Michigan, and I remember trudging through snow drifts in search of something-- not even sure what that something really was at the time-- but I knew there had to be more for me.   I still had dreams and aspirations to do something big and important in my life, but how was I going to get out where I could see more of the world?    So I signed the dotted line and joined The United States Army.  Not exactly the dotted line I was hoping I would one day sign--I wanted to sign with a record label and make music- but joining the military - REALLY?    Even Uncle Sam raised an awkward eye brow when he saw me entering the Basic Training Post.    Don't fret folks, I am not going to share my whole testimony.   You can always read my story in its entirety by getting it on Amazon.com (The Devil's Misfits:  My Testimony by Jay L. Hudson)  (I know, it's a shameless plug but advertising costs are crazy folks so I have to use this venue to save me some money!   NOTE:  And just in case you are wondering why my author name is different from my name listed on this blogger page - it's a Pseudonym - a Ghost Writer name -- but it's all still ME!.  

In closing this particular blog, I conclude by once again saying that life can be strange and many times we don't see our dreams and aspirations being fulfilled.    However, as we continue to surrender ourselves to God's Plans and Purpose that He has for our lives, we discover that no matter where we are on this journey, He is right there by our side every step of the WAY (Jesus Christ said, "I am the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE; no one comes to the Father but by me" (John 14:6)   

I am incredibly and eternally grateful to JESUS CHRIST for being my Lord, Savior, Redeemer and The Lover of My Soul.    I am the Man I am today and the man I hope I become one day because of God's Transformation Power-- His amazing and mighty Hand that continues to mold me into the Image of His Son Jesus Christ.

I pray that you have been blessed, inspired, encouraged and maybe even challenged in your Faith Walk today.   I thank you so much for visiting my Blogger Page -- and I would love to hear from you.   You can contact me at my email account:    Jhudson1159@gmail.com 

Be blessed and be a blessing to someone today in Jesus' Name!   Love you all!

J.

PS:   Before I forget, I realize that my past "Blogger Articles" are listed sequentially from The Past (2015) to (some of 2017).   As I was pasting these past "articles" I wasn't giving much thought to the date sequences.   So you will begin to see my Blogger Articles are starting to reflect today's recent date (August 2017).   Sorry if there is any confusion on this matter.    I would like to encourage you to view some of my past 'Articles" because I have included the Prophetic Words from God and Visions and Dreams as well (from 2015 thru to 2017).    Thank you for your patience and understanding.    I am indeed a "Work in Progress" and I am "Under Construction". Ya'll! LOL

GLORY TO GOD - MY REDEEMER LIVES -(SONG POSTED)

WELCOME TO 1159AndCountingDown Blog Page 

I JUST HAVE TO TELL EVERYBODY THAT MY REDEEMER (JESUS CHRIST) IS ALIVE AND WELL! AND BELOVED SAINTS OF GOD, HE IS COMING BACK VERY SOON! WILL YOU BE READY MY FRIEND?

My redeemer lives on Sing! Karaoke | Smule

Nicole C. Mullen - My redeemer lives recorded by jaypaulie35 on Sing! Karaoke. Sing your favorite songs with lyrics and duet with celebrities.

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