My New Year’s Prayer for My Partners in Ministry

Today, i prayed and sent this prayer to those dear ones who minister most closely with me in ministry. i post it now below asking you to pray with me for them and for us and to receive the prayer as a blessing for your own precious life going forward. 

Dearest Philadelphia Church of the Nazarene DAB Members And District Staff:

As 2021 disappears in the rearview mirror behind us and 2022 arises on the highway of holiness before us, you continue in my deep and tender prayers. 

Lord Jesus, in Your Name, i pray for my partners in leadership, the DAB members and the District Staff of the Philadelphia District. Even now, i lift them and their precious families fervently before the Throne of Your Great Mercy. Remind them that whatever challenges and concerns they have are also Your own compassionate concerns, Dear God. 

O how You love us! Let the favor of Your peace and purity and power and presence rest upon us and within us. Lead us onward together in these unusual days. You can redeem these times that eternal souls may come to know You as their Savior and Lord before it’s too late. 

Enlarge our territory for Your glory. Finally, i claim Your promise in Jeremiah 29:14a CEB: “I will be present for you.” declares the Lord. Amen and Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Prayer for Perspective

LET US PRAY: Lord, i pray today, that we as Your beloved children would begin to realize that in the midst of our human sadness, there is also Your holy joy, in the midst of our temporary fears, there is too, Your forever peace, and in the midst of our ongoing distractions, there is surely the reality of Your deep compassion, not only flowing to us but also flowing through us to others. Amen. -kww

Amen. And Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Personal Prayer Almost Every Morning

i pray this personal prayer almost every morning of my life…

Lord Jesus, i want to be found living this day above and beyond worldly success… yes, being faithful, serving gladly, loving passionately, believing totally, praying always, living holiness, and thinking Christlike. 

Deo Volente — whatever You want, my Lord Jesus. Amen.

Pastor Kerry Willis  

My Sincere Prayer As A New Year Approaches

Almighty Personal God, Loving Abba Father:

You are our past, present, and future foundation. We Adore You.

Your Greatness is unrivaled. Your Holiness is unmatched.

We are grateful to You for the Year that is fading fast and for the Year that is rapidly rising.

Help us in Your New Year, Loving Abba Father, to worry less and to worship more.

We desire to teach our children to laugh by laughing with them; To teach others to love and trust by loving and trusting them.

We know that when You sent Your Love to Bethlehem’s manger, He came so we could really know You.

Yes Your Love came to be with us, to reign in us, to flow through us.

Help us in Your New Year to share Your Son, Your Spirit, and Your Everlasting Love with others.

We desire Loving Abba Father to hear Your love song in every sunrise, in the singing of the birds in our backyards, in the stories of our parents and grandparents, and in the visions of our children.

Help us to stop and to be still long enough and often enough to hear Your love songs, so that we may love You intimately, grow in life together, and light our world in Holy Spirit Unity!

On this day, we “rejoice” in Your Word and in this world You loved into being.

We are grateful to You for another New Year, for new opportunities on the horizon.

We pray for your light in darkness, for Your hope in seemingly hopeless circumstances.

We desire to be Your sent ones. Reign within us so we can effectively BE LIGHT! GO SHINE!

Forgive us where we have lived beneath our inheritance as Your children this past year.

We leave the past in your hands, and step out into the unknown New Year assured that You have already been in our future and will now go there with us, in us, and through us for Your glory.

We accept Your gift of a New Year and we praise Your name in advance for what's ahead.

We depend on You to help us be exactly who you want us to be – Your witnesses to Your world.

Yes, on this day You have made, I say “Rejoice!” And again I say, “REJOICE!”

In the name of the One called Wonderful--Jesus our Savior, our Lord for forever & today. Amen.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Christmastime Prayer

Dearest Father God, Your great faithfulness is like a forever fragrance to our faith especially at Christmastime. Your Spirit descended like a dove bringing Your Son from Heaven above to restore our Hope here on earth. Even now Your Presence is with us and within us. Blessed Holy Days are indeed what You’ve given to us for yet another December. We love you more than ever before because You first loved us the very most! Amen. -kww 

Blessed Holy Days to you.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Before The Morning

A dear friend sent me this song after we prayed together over a desperate situation happening in real time. The Lord heard our prayers and in moments the tide turned. The words in this song are for someone. Yes, for my friend, for me, and maybe for you, as well. 

https://youtu.be/6Hcwd5Y6B00

Just trust Jesus. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Hymn: “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded” — 1656

The concluding words of the old Hymn: "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" -- written down first in 1656 -- are my personal words of prayer, today: 

"O make me Thine forever, And should i fainting be. Lord, let me never, never, outlive my Love to Thee."

Here’s the hymn being sacredly sung:

https://youtu.be/JRjJ9nufa2c

Deo Volente. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Christmas is… Heaven is… [An Advent Thought]

On the fourth Sunday of Advent this thought came beautifully into my mind. The reason likely is that i preached on “Heaven” at a funeral service on Saturday and preached about Christmas on Sunday. 

This thought has my heart so inspired:

”CHRISTMAS IS GOD WITH US! HEAVEN IS US WITH GOD!” -kww

Yes, Immanuel now, inheritance later. 

All Joy to Your World! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Is Drinking Alcohol Ever Wise?

Some have asked me: "Is drinking alcohol always wrong?" 

i answer that question lovingly, yet sincerely with another question: "Is drinking alcohol ever wise?" 

And, another question comes to mind: "Isn’t causing someone to stumble, wrong?"

i once preached a weeklong campmeeting in North Carolina. One night at the altar time, a little girl, maybe 8-years-old, came alone and stood directly in front of me. When i leaned over and whispered, "What is your need," with tender tears she replied instantly. "My Daddy’s Drinking." 

Matthew 18:6 is very tender on my heart, even now, as i remember the home that little girl had to exist in. i hope our weeping prayer together that night healed her Dad’s lifestyle and changed her future. 

These thoughts about "Daddy" bring me to another wise reason for me to abstain from alcohol: "i want to honor my Daddy and my ancestors, who as far as i can remember, lived lives to the full without drinking alcohol -- back in the days -- when boundaries really mattered. i don’t want to ever move those "ancient boundaries." Lord have mercy. 

Finally, what if "our" drinking alcohol isn’t mainly about whether "we" can or cannot drink, but it’s about being hope to others who are desperate because of alcohol, and in the midst of their pain they just need one genuine example of someone Jesus is empowering to live life to the full totally apart from alcohol?

Just thinking and praying.

And, i have been called radical before, and i am good with that. So, blame it on my Loving God and Loving My Family and Loving My Neighbors [That includes anyone reading these words.]

P.S. And, it’s not about legalism. Surrender that.  It really is about Love. -kww 

* "As for whoever causes these little ones who believe in me to trip and fall into sin, it would be better for them to have a huge stone hung around their necks and be drowned in the bottom of the lake." Matthew‬ ‭18:6‬ ‭CEB‬‬

"Mary’s Boy Child" -- Boney M.

It wouldn’t be Christmastime if i, an island boy, didn’t share one of my favorite songs of the season with a delightful island beat -- "Mary’s Boy Child" by Boney M. 

[My favorite lyric is toward the end "O My Lord, You Gave Your Son to Save Us, That Sin Might Not Enslave Us!"]

https://youtu.be/8amHW-xdbzE

Blessed Christmastime!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Of Christmas Present and Christmas Presents Past

TODAY, CHRISTMAS PRESENT REMINDED ME OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTS PAST  

 One thing I miss most about "Christmases Past" is drawing names in our Middle School boys' Sunday School class and then trading the gifts with one another on the Sunday before Christmas.

I remember one year in particular. My friend, Mike, had not been present the Sunday we had drawn names with one another for the gift-exchange, but he did want to join our family for church on Christmas Sunday. Mike was all concerned about coming without a purchased and wrapped gift. You see, Mike's dad raised him and his other three siblings, because their mother up and left the family of six when Mike was in grade school. But, we were dear friends, and so I helped him figure out how to come to church and to save face with the other boys in our class on Christmas Sunday.

Here's how my plan came down. I suddenly remembered that Mike had a model car in his bedroom that he had never opened. I told him to stick the model car in a paper sack and to immediately put the paper sack in the classroom closet upon arrival. When it came time to exchange gifts, I quickly gave my gift to the boy whose name I had drawn, received my gift form the boy who had drawn my name, and then quietly gave that gift to Mike. I then made a beeline for the closet to get Mike's paper sack. I pulled Mike's model car out of the sack so fast, the other boys didn't have time to realize it had never been gift-wrapped. 

Mike smiled at me with a look of gratitude that is simply and profoundly unforgettable. My friend's dignity had been preserved and my heart was wondrously warmed in the process.

During "Christmas Present", I remember the Christmas presents the boys in our Sunday School Class exchanged on that very special Sunday of my "Christmases Past", and my heart is still wonderfully warmed because of the memory.

P.S. And, we know the Greatest Present of All is Heaven’s Boy born in Bethlehem to give us Joy! 

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”

2 Corinthians 9:15 NIV 

All Joy to Your World!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

 

Praying Mostly in My Head Nonstop These Days

It seems I am praying mostly in my head nonstop these days. 

And this song continues to be a part of my praying.

https://youtu.be/dBxSJWjB8vM

Pray with me and for me, dear friends. Grateful. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Favorite Christmas Verse is “Beyond Words”

“Praise God for his astonishing gift, which is far too great for words!” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9:15‬ ‭TPT‬‬

“Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭9:15‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“I thank God for his gift that words cannot describe.” ‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9:15‬ ‭GW‬‬

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9:15‬ ‭TLV‬‬

Jesus, You are Father God’s indescribable Gift! Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Incarnation and Human Suffering [My Advent 2021 YouTube Message[

Here is my Advent YouTube message for this third week of Advent 2021 — “The Incarnation and Human Suffering.” [It’s 15 minutes and 26 seconds in length.]

Note: Corrected Scriptures referred to: 1 Tim. 3:16, Philippians 2:5-8, James 5:7-8 [In video i said “2 Timothy” and forgot to say chapter 2 when referring to Philippians.]

https://youtu.be/TusRjLtavoo

All Joy to Your World! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Treasuring Christmases Past

Hope these simple words i turned into a true Christmas story from my own life will somehow warm your heart as the Season of Advent advances. 

https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/d/1g2ZT1jjcc_hL8pcXUwpjEF_D7SZbow3LhBzCfTABjW8/mobilebasic

All Joy to Your World!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Christmases Past: "Writing" and Riding Down Memory Lane

Join me as today, i am "writing" down memory lane of Christmases Past. 

Something i really miss about Christmases Past is getting new pedal cars and bicycles.

i remember my first pedal car. It was a red fire truck, complete with a bell and a mesmerizing battery-operated, red-flashing light on the hood. It was one of the most wonderful and fun forms of transportation a boy could ever hope for. 

And when it comes to bicycles, i only remember owning two -- a green Schwinn cruiser and a gold English Racer with ten gears.

There's nothing quite like getting a new bike for Christmas. A bike was a thing of freedom especially when i was young. Riding the roads of the island i called home was in itself pure joy. In many ways my journey around the world started with pedals and spokes.

Yes, funny how my "writing" down memory lane, reminded me of riding down memory lane. The fire truck pedal car helped me go from walking to riding around the home place. The bicycle got me off the Willis property and onto the roads that would lead to the rest of my life.

As much as i love riding down memory lane, I am so glad that because of The Christ Child born in Bethlehem, today i am promised that the rest of my journey will be the best of my journey. 

All Joy to Your World!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Note: Rewrite of my Nov. 30, 2013 blogpost. 

Still Praying this Song…

Pray with me… 

https://youtu.be/2pLGNQkQgAE

GOD YOU ARE GOOD!!!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

May Your Bad Days Prove That "God is Good!"

This awesome song came my way today, i was not familiar with it, nevertheless, it is now the heart-cry of my soul… 

https://youtu.be/2pLGNQkQgAE

May My/Your Bad Days Prove that "God is Good!"

Pastor Kerry Willis 

HOPE / ADVENT

“And yet again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles. Praise him, all you people of the earth.” And in another place Isaiah said, “The heir to David’s throne will come, and he will rule over the Gentiles. They will place their hope on him.” I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans‬ ‭15:11-13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Lots of Hope in these words. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Psalm 100 — The Passion Translation

“Lift up a great shout of joy to Yahweh! Go ahead and do it—everyone, everywhere! Worship Yahweh with gladness. Sing your way into his presence with joy! And realize what this really means— we have the privilege of worshiping Yahweh our God. For he is our Creator and we belong to him. We are the people of his pleasure. You can pass through his open gates with the password of praise. Come right into his presence with thanksgiving. Come bring your thank offering to him and affectionately bless his beautiful name! For Yahweh is always good and ready to receive you. He’s so loving that it will amaze you— so kind that it will astound you! And he is famous for his faithfulness toward all. Everyone knows our God can be trusted, for he keeps his promises to every generation!” Psalms‬ ‭100:1-5‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Amen. Amen. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Reverse the Script

This powerful video i used a few years ago in a sermon came to mind again tonight. 

https://youtu.be/jgFU5Ak88-k

i believe…

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Goin’ Home

i told a dear friend i was preaching on Heaven this morning and he sent me this beautiful song that affirms the words i plan to share.

https://youtu.be/gToWAfHsIlw

Heaven awaits. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Jesus Redeems Human Frailty

Some days as human beings we can feel exhausted. And our nerves can be frayed as we may even wonder what good purpose our lives could have on such days. 

For example, after pumping gas in my vehicle, the pump did not produce a receipt so I had to go inside the store to request it. It was a very small thing, i know, but on a day when you are exhausted and the temperatures are colder, it can be a little frustrating, humanly. On the way out of the store with my receipt in hand, i spontaneously smiled at a little boy and he smiled back. i think my day has been worth living already. 

"My Jesus, You even redeem days of human exhaustion, frayed nerves, and little frustrations. Thanks for entrusting me to smile at a child on such a day. i am a grateful debtor. Amen." -kww #beingvulnerable 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Sweet By And By

7 years ago today my two brothers and i officiated our Daddy Billy’s homegoing and burial services. This hymn is giving me renewed anticipation for our great reunion day up ahead. 

https://youtu.be/JhNxXBTIjfk

We do not grieve as those who have no hope. 1 Thess. 4:13.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Are We? If Not, Why Not?

As we go through our lives, are we bearing fruit that will last? If not, why not? Is it because we are not asking in prayer and in His Name? Jesus has appointed us to go and to bear fruit that will last. 

"You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit--fruit that will last--and so that whatever you ask in My name the Father will give you." Words of Jesus, John‬ ‭15:16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

In our lives, Lord, be glorified, magnified, and satisfied. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Psalm 130 -- i Count on You, Lord!

What joy it was this past Lord’s Day to preach from Psalm 130…

"From the depths of despair, O Lord, I call for your help. Hear my cry, O Lord. Pay attention to my prayer. Lord, if you kept a record of our sins, who, O Lord, could ever survive? But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to fear you. I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word. I long for the Lord more than sentries long for the dawn, yes, more than sentries long for the dawn. O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows. He himself will redeem Israel from every kind of sin." Psalms‬ ‭130:1-8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Indeed, i am counting on You Lord! Amen!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My New Morning Prayer

i awoke praying this new prayer…

Dearest Lord Jesus: 

You were faithful in our yesterdays. 

You are still faithful in our nowadays. 

You will be faithful in our everydays. 

We needed You then. 

We need You now. 

We will need You next. 

There’s never a time when we won’t need You near. 

Be here. Be our Stay, for forever and today. 

Amen. Amen. Amen. -kww

Grateful,

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Abandon Sinning Altogether

"Yet if I had closed my eyes to my sin, the Lord God would have closed his ears to my prayer." Psalms‬ ‭66:18‬ ‭TPT

"If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." Psalms‬ ‭66:18‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Lord, i never want to cherish sin by ignoring it; i only want to confess all sin and to abandon sinning altogether, now and forever. This alone guarantees unhindered communication between You and me when i pray. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Powerful Testimony — Jesus Is The Greatest Jew Who Ever Lived

This Jesus-testimony is so very powerful on so many levels… 

https://youtu.be/F580WaNHhqg

Yeshua. Jesus. Messiah. Savior. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Bring Me Anything That Brings You Glory!

This song below is my deep prayer today and day-by-day, especially this line i pray in tender surrender: "Lord, Bring me anything that brings You glory! Amen!”

https://youtu.be/JtjxCx-7Hps

In my life Lord be glorified, be magnified, be satisfied. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Heartwarming Memory

In 1992, our family of four moved from the coast of North Carolina to Colorado Springs, Colorado, to attend Nazarene Bible College. My Granny Margery sure missed us and especially her precious great-grandchildren, Grayson, 5, and Allison, 3. Some nights she would call to make sure we put an extra blanket on them at night. She loved then so much she didn’t even want to think of them to being cold at our new home faraway from her in the Rocky Mountains. [This tender memory from almost 30 years ago warmed my heart tonight.] 

Grateful for such a heartwarming memory.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

I Am a Child of God

We are sons and daughters of a good, good Father. 

This song helped me deeply, this morning early:

https://youtu.be/68huKYbT3l4

My heart cries, ‘Abba Father!"

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Not Religion, A Relationship

Adam and Eve did not have religion they had a relationship with God. Therefore, when Adam and Eve caved-in to the serpent’s temptation to sin, they did not lose their religion, they lost their communion with God, also known as, their right relationship with God. As a result, when God came seeking Adam and Eve, it was not to revamp their religion but to restore their relationship with Himself aright again. 

Note: James Spruill’s initial thoughts with kww’s paraphrasing :)

My prayer: Lord, i want to know You in a right relationship. And because of The Cross, i can! Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

To Deliberately Continue Sinning is a Scary Scenario

"For if we go on willfully and deliberately sinning after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice [to atone] for our sins [that is, no further offering to anticipate], but a kind of awful and terrifying expectation of [divine] judgment and the fury of a fire and burning wrath which will consume the adversaries [those who put themselves in opposition to God]. Anyone who has ignored and set aside the Law of Moses is put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much greater punishment do you think he will deserve who has rejected and trampled under foot the Son of God, and has considered unclean and common the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and has insulted the Spirit of grace [who imparts the unmerited favor and blessing of God]?" Hebrews‬ ‭10:26-29‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Lord forgive. Lord forbid. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Immediate Family With Jesus

Reading recently in Mark 3:31-35 gave to me a beautiful truth to claim. Let me share the passage and then i will share the beautiful truth given to me:

“Then His [Jesus’] mother and brothers come. Standing outside, they sent word to Him, summoning Him. A crowd was sitting around Him, and they tell Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are outside looking for You.” Answering them, He said, “Who are My mother and My brothers?” Looking at those sitting in a circle around Him, He said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is My brother and sister and mother.” Mark‬ ‭3:31-35‬ ‭TLV‬‬

Here’s the beautiful truth given to me as i saturated in these words recorded by Mark: 

“EMBRACING [OBEYING] THE WILL OF FATHER GOD MAKES US IMMEDIATE FAMILY WITH JESUS HIMSELF!” -kww

Pastor Kerry Willis 

 

Emissaries for Jesus

Today, in reading Mark 3:14, from the Tree of Life Translation of God’s Holy Word, these words penetrated and even invigorated my mind:

"He [Yeshua / Jesus] appointed twelve (who He also named "EMMISARIES") so that they might be with Him and He might send them to proclaim the Good News…"

Love that word "emissary" -- envoy, ambassador, diplomat, delegate, attaché, minister, agent, representative, deputy, factor, proxy, suragate, liaison, messager, courier, herald, apostle. 

The synonym for "emmisary", "proxy" really touched me deeply. A "proxy" is someone given authority to represent Someone else!" Wow! 

Penetrating, indeed! Invigorating, as well! 

Pastor Kerry Willis  

Ephesians on Evil

My Mom and i were sharing recently on the phone and words from this passage became the topic. Read and pray through this passage prayerfully and carefully. Hearing the words written to the Ephesians on evil seem sadly to fit the world we now live in.

"Imitate God, since you are the children he loves. Live in love as Christ also loved us. He gave his life for us as an offering and sacrifice, a soothing aroma to God. Don’t let sexual sin, perversion of any kind, or greed even be mentioned among you. This is not appropriate behavior for God’s holy people. It’s not right that dirty stories, foolish talk, or obscene jokes should be mentioned among you either. Instead, give thanks ⌞to God⌟. You know very well that no person who is involved in sexual sin, perversion, or greed (which means worshiping wealth) can have any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Don’t let anyone deceive you with meaningless words. It is because of sins like these that God’s anger comes to those who refuse to obey him. Don’t be partners with them. Once you lived in the dark, but now the Lord has filled you with light. Live as children who have light. Light produces everything that is good, that has God’s approval, and that is true. Determine which things please the Lord. Have nothing to do with the useless works that darkness produces. Instead, expose them for what they are. It is shameful to talk about what some people do in secret. Light exposes the true character of everything because light makes everything easy to see. That’s why it says: "Wake up, sleeper! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you."  So then, be very careful how you live. Don’t live like foolish people but like wise people. Make the most of your opportunities because these are evil days." Ephesians‬ ‭5:1-16

Lord have mercy. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

They Prayed Together

This seven-word description of the early Jesus-believers recorded in the Bible moves my heart deeply: 

“They all joined together constantly in prayer...” Acts‬ ‭1:14‬a NIV‬‬

Lord, help us as those who believe in You to pray together as often as possible. As we seek Your heart together, surely You will hear us and prove to be our Helper, our Healer, and our Holiness. Amen. 

Let us pray… yes, together! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Word, The Truth, Your Word!

i love these words recorded in Mark 2:2a TLV — “He [Jesus] kept proclaiming the word to them.”

Think about this powerful idea: “The One Who was Himself, The Word, kept proclaiming The Word to the people.”

 “Truth’s shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of Your Word makes my pathway clear.” Psalms‬ ‭119:105‬ ‭TPT

Deo Volente — as God wills. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

A Moving Gospel Passage

These words penned by Mark make up a moving Gospel passage i love to preach from: 

“Jesus and his companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, he went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority—quite unlike the teachers of religious law. Suddenly, a man in the synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, “Why are you interfering with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” But Jesus reprimanded him. “Be quiet! Come out of the man,” he ordered. At that, the evil spirit screamed, threw the man into a convulsion, and then came out of him. Amazement gripped the audience, and they began to discuss what had happened. “What sort of new teaching is this?” they asked excitedly. “It has such authority! Even evil spirits obey his orders!” The news about Jesus spread quickly throughout the entire region of Galilee. After Jesus left the synagogue with James and John, they went to Simon and Andrew’s home. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with a high fever. They told Jesus about her right away. So he went to her bedside, took her by the hand, and helped her sit up. Then the fever left her, and she prepared a meal for them. That evening after sunset, many sick and demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. The whole town gathered at the door to watch. So Jesus healed many people who were sick with various diseases, and he cast out many demons. But because the demons knew who he was, he did not allow them to speak.” Mark‬ ‭1:21-34‬ ‭NLT‬‬

O how i love You,  Jesus. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

At the Foot of the Cross

This sacred song is strong on my heart today…

https://youtu.be/hk7_SBxYSZs

Grateful for the Cross, Jesus. 

Pastor Kerry Willis

Maranatha — Repeat of My Life’s Heart Cry

On my blog i sometimes repeat the best stuff, like today, i am reposting the link of my own life’s heart-cry ever since December 2017 when i first heard this song: “MARANATHA!”

https://youtu.be/87bx0j8EoYQ

Come Lord Jesus, Come!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Don’t Give Up On Longevity

Perhaps one of the quotes most people will remember me saying once my life’s work has ended is: "Longevity is/will be the greatest convincer!" 

Often when i have found myself at an empasse with someone in a hard conversation, rather than prolong an argument i simply say: "My life lived over the longhaul will be my argument." In other words, "Longevity is/will be the greatest convincer!" 

Finally, i began this post to encourage you with this specific idea in mind: "Please don’t give up on longevity." We’ve all heard it said: "Good things come to those who wait!" i would like to strengthen these words in this way: "Good things come to those who wait on/trust in the Lord over the longhaul."

Another way i encourage myself in this vein is to say often to myself and to others and to even pray the words below to the Lord Himself -- and i will share the words in a prayer now: 

Dearest Our Almighty God: You had the first word! You will have the last word! And i believe You will have the next word. Amen."

Because of our Lord’s faithfulness, longevity will truly be the greatest convincer!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Your Voice

“Lord… Open my ears and bless me with the sweetness of Your voice.” -Prayers on Fire 

Today, someone asked what i missed most about my Dad. i didn’t even have to think three seconds before i answered: “i miss His voice!” 

Lord, Your voice is my reward. Attune my listening to hear and obey everything You say. i also long to hear Your voice say to me: “Well done!” 

i am a great and grateful debtor. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Your Holy Presence [My True and Tender Prayer]

"Lord, the glory of Your Presence builds my faith. Amen." - Prayers on Fire 

Jesus, my life’s very essence is Your Holy Presence! 

i long for You in unfathomable measure, for You alone are my most Beloved Treasure!

Inside my soul please always see, that i want my whole life to belong to Thee!

As my earthly life is fast passing by, assure me when it’s over to You i will fly! 

i pray all of this truly and tenderly, knowing you will now and forever remember me!

Amen. -kww

Pastor Kerry Willis 

 

Repentance

SHARE THE WORD — Words of Jesus… “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” Mark‬ ‭1:15‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ 

There is no true transformation for the soul that sadly refuses to turn from sinning. Repentance is turning from sin and turning to Him. -kww

Lord, help us to practice obedience in repentance. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

“Come Now And Overwhelm Us With Gladness!”

“Let the sunrise of your love end our dark night. Break through our clouded dawn again! Only you can satisfy our hearts, filling us with songs of joy to the end of our days. We’ve been overwhelmed with grief; come now and overwhelm us with gladness. Replace our years of trouble with decades of delight. Let us see your miracles again, and let the rising generation see the glorious wonders you’re famous for. O Lord our God, let your sweet beauty rest upon us. Come work with us, and then our works will endure; you will give us success in all we do.” Psalms‬ ‭90:14-17‬ ‭TPT‬‬

We pray this prayer with the Psalmist. Amen.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Holy Spirit Still Speaks To Us Everything Jesus Has Said

Some say God doesn’t speak to people anymore in these days we are living in. i couldn’t tenderly disagree more. These words spoken by Jesus are the reason why:

"But when the Father sends the Advocate as My representative--that is, the Holy Spirit-- He will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you." John‬ ‭14:26‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Sounds like to me, God the Holy Spirit, our Lord’s representative, is still teaching and reminding -- yes, still speaking to Jesus-believers even in these days we live in, especially in these days we live in. 

On the witness stand of your life let me be the first to testify, yes, God is sometimes silent, nevertheless, God still speaks, too. 

The last two weeks as i have prepared messages from God’s Word, the Written Word has been loud and the Holy Witness has been giving me deep Jesus-teaching. The Lord is speaking to me, yes, in indescribable ways, but also in undeniable ways. 

Speak Lord, Your servant is listening. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

P.S. In those times when it seems i am not hearing from God, i ask Him to examine my trust and my obedience. That almost always seems to bring His tender voice back alive again in my life. Ask the Advocate to speak the words of Jesus into Your life. It’s His joy-description! 

The Seasons Point to Creator God

For me personally, the four seasons of each year point me to Creator God. It’s autumn now, and my wife, Kim, and our hound dog, Lucy, just took a few days to explore the beauty of the fall foliage. i have lost my breath several times already. Yes, my Creator God’s spectacular painting of every leaf causes me to worship Him outloud. 

Also, it seemed to me every tree was praising Creator God, as well. Isaiah 55:12 is truly in effect as we drive these colorful mountain roads. Listen to the words recorded by the prophet Isaiah: "You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands." Isaiah 55:12 is truly in effect because the prophet is a truth-teller. Creation recognizes its Creator. 

My mentor, James Spruill, calls my fascination with fall -- and the other three seasons as well -- as "worshiping with your eyes!"

If you’re having trouble praising Creator God, take a walk outside. Maybe the trees will clap their hands unto God and get you started in adoring Creator God afresh and anew for yourself. He is worthy of all our worship! He is worthy of all our praise! 

Let’s celebrate Creator God with the rest of Creation! 

Pastor Kerry Willis  

Teach By Living — Feel the Heartbeat of Another

The authentic rabbi promises “to teach his student by living.” The teacher and the student covenant to help each other on the journey. Make sure your heart is big enough to feel the heart beat of another. Make sure your heart is focused on people. - John Haines 

These thoughts inspire me. 

Pastor Kerry Willis

Clearly, EVERYONE Needs the Hope of Jesus Being Present… ALWAYS!

These two verses from Mark’s Gospel move my heart deeply. In reading this account in Capernaum where Jesus was staying shows a clear vision of the pain and anguish people have in this life. Clearly, everyone needs the Hope of Jesus being present: 

"When evening came, at sunset, the people [of Capernaum] brought to Him [Jesus] all the sick and those who were afflicted by demons. The whole town gathered together at the door." Mark 1:32-33 TLV 

People Need the Lord to be present! All people. Why? Hope has a Name -- JESUS!

Here’s the best news, spoken by Jesus Himself to those who will belong exclusively to Him: "And remember! I Am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20b TLV

Clearly, EVERYONE needs the Hope of Jesus being present… …ALWAYS! -kww

Pastor Kerry Willis

My Off-The-Grid Prayer from a Maritime Forest

My wife, Kim, and our hound dog, Lucy, are taking a few days “off the grid” in a Maritime forest. If you know anything about me, you know nothing quite inspires my inner man like a prayer-walk in tall trees near the water. It’s so therapeutic to my being. i am grateful for this short yet sacred time to prayer-walk over and over again. 

Life moves so fast, doesn’t it? That’s why we just decided we needed to pull the plug for a short season of seeking Jesus with minimal distractions. We didn’t know our phone service, along with texting, emailing, and social media usage would be relatively nonexistent here, however, it’s a blessing of sorts. If i walk Lucy a mile away, i get like a-half-a-bar of service. (In other words, as i write this blog post, maybe it will post online and maybe it won’t. It’s all good either way.)

Here in the the deep woods my heart of devotion is turning to prayer. Pray with me if you will:

Dearest Lord Jesus. You know how much i need and want intimacy with You without interruption. All Your children do. 

Take over my entire heart, mind, soul, and strength. i have no desire to lead my own life. You are my exclusive Lord, so lead me according to Your agenda. i say “Yes” in advance to whatever You want. And to my total surrender, i also speak “Amen!” “So be it!”

i belong only to You Jesus. You gave Yourself for me, so i give myself to You. Gain glory from my story for Your sake, alone. You are my King of Everything. Amen, again! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Obey, Don’t Delay!

“Immediately, Jesus called them and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired hands and followed Him.” Mark 1:20b TLV

Let us not delay going with Jesus, today. -kww

[Obey, don’t delay!]

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Matthew 4:1

“Then (after His baptism) Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” Matthew‬ ‭4:1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Dr. Stephen Manley preached on this verse tonight in Hershey, Pennsylvania. These are the words that are still penetrating my thinking:

“…led up…”

“…by the Spirit…”

“…to be tempted…” 

“…by the devil…”

Spoiler alert: JESUS WON THE BATTLE!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Prayer: Jesus, Fill the Nets!

Recently, standing in one of my personal storage areas, i was praying beside my Dad’s last shrimp net and my red wooden cross. This is the fervent prayer i prayed: "Lord, my Dad harvested shrimp to sustain our family physically so our family could now harvest souls spiritually. Fill the nets for Your glory. Amen." -kww 

For such a time as this! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

7 Sobering Words Jesus Spoke

THINK ABOUT THE 7 WORDS IN ALL CAPS BELOW… 

“So Jesus explained, “I tell you the truth, THE SON CAN DO NOTHING BY HIMSELF. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.” John‬ ‭5:19‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Go ahead, read especially those 7 words again. Sobering, heh? 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

As Jesus Was Leaving Jericho…

“Then they came to Jericho. And as He was leaving Jericho with His disciples and a large crowd, a blind beggar, Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was sitting beside the road [as was his custom]. When Bartimaeus heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout and say, “Jesus, Son of David (Messiah), have mercy on me!” Many sternly rebuked him, telling him to keep still and be quiet; but he kept on shouting out all the more, “Son of David (Messiah), have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called the blind man, telling him, “Take courage, get up! He is calling for you.” Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said, “What do you want Me to do for you?” The blind man said to Him, “Rabboni (my Master), let me regain my sight.” Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith [and confident trust in My power] has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and began following Jesus on the road.” Mark‬ ‭10:46-52‬ 

Imagine Jesus asking the blind man “What do you want Me to do for you?”

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Jesus… Adonai.

Jesus, You Are Adonai, The Emphatic Plural of Majesty — My Lord and Master, My Owner and Sovereign, My Protector and Provider. Amen. Amen. Amen. -kww

https://youtu.be/x9P5q_xo2a0

Grateful,

Pastor Kerry Willis 

A Powerfully Encouraging Verse from The Love Chapter

This verse from The Love Chapter of the New Testament has been so very powerfully encouraging to me of late…

"For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God]." 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13:12‬ AMP

Lord, You know me so much more than i know You, nevertheless, Your Word gives me hope that one day i will know You as much as You know me. i worship You, my Almighty Personal God. And i love You so very much because You first loved me and You will forever love me most. Amen and Amen. -kww

Hope is Alive!

Pastor Kerry Willis

Surrender Breeds Undeniable Evidence

When we surrender to God -- asking Him to have His way in our lives -- others will know it, often before we will know ourselves. -kww

Surrender Breeds Undeniable Evidence. -kww

Jesus, i wave the white flag over my life nonstop! Amen!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Roped-Bracelets

Years ago as a local pastor, i recruited men in the church to be part of a crew that i called “The Pastor’s Prayer Patrol.” At one time 49 men had signed their names to the roster. 

i asked only two things of the men: 1. Pray for me at least one day each week and 2. Pray with me whenever possible at our once-a-week Thursday 6:10 a.m. Dawn Patrol Prayertime at the local church. It revolutionized us as men and it revitalized the ministry God had entrusted to us as Jesus-believers, together.

i often gave visible tokens to these dedicated men to remind them how essential prayer was. One such token i once gave to each man was a roped-bracelet. The story of the roped-bracelet was first shared with me by a historian at a lifesaving station along the coastline of my native Outer Banks, yes, overlooking the Graveyard of the Atlantic. He shared how seamen of old believed it to be bad luck to learn to swim. The crews believed that to learn to swim would mean to ask for a boat-sinking somewhere along their sea journey. Yes, that was pure superstition. But not the roped-bracelet part. 

The roped-bracelets were worn by each crew member in case the ship did sink or they might fall into the waves and/or be knocked unconscious overboard, whereby another crew member could save them from drowning by catching the roped-bracelet with a boat hook and thereby pull them from a watery grave. 

As prayermen we wore the roped-bracelets for years as a visible reminder that we really do need each other especially in prayer. 

Well, yesterday in Cape May, N.J., i happened into a nautical-themed shop and lo and behold they had roped-bracelets for sale. i purchased a navy blue one and told the sales clerk a short version of the roped-bracelet seaman’s story. She smiled knowing she will probably now sell some more. Amen and Amen.

Praying Always.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

We Must Give Up Our Lives If We Want to Save Our Lives…

“Then, calling the crowd to join His disciples, He [Jesus] said, “If any of you wants to be My follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow Me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for My sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? If anyone is ashamed of Me and My message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when He returns in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” Mark‬ ‭8:34-38‬ ‭NLT‬‬

My life, i give to You, Jesus, because You gave Your life for mine. Amen. -kww

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Because He Lives

This song of hope blessed my heart recently. You’re welcome. 

https://youtu.be/BrTT-fSthbM

Maranatha.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Change the World

Lord, let my relationship with You change the world. Don’t let the world change my relationship with You. Amen. -kww

Presence Matters Most! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

“Jesus Loves the Little Children, ALL the Children of the World!”

The Word of God is so very powerful and wonderful. Recently, in Mark’s record of the Gospel, the words written in chapter 10 (the whole chapter) have been really riveting to me, personally — heart, mind, soul, and strength. 

Here’s one portion of the passage: 

‬‬“One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so He could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering Him. When Jesus saw what was happening, He was angry with His disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to Me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then He took the children in His arms and placed His hands on their heads and blessed them.” Mark‬ ‭10:13-16‬ ‭NLT‬‬

How must the disciples have felt when they realized they were not allowing those that Jesus wanted to come to Him to actually come to Him? The little children, that is. 

In the culture of that day, children were not often highly valued. Generally speaking, they were to be invisible and silent. Yet, Jesus did not succumb to the culture of His day. He went against the culture and let everyone know that children were highly valued to Him. Why? Truly, “Jesus loves the little children, ALL the children of the world!”

This thought is on my mind, today. In the culture i live in now, do i highly value those that the world does not highly value? Is there anyone i think Jesus does not want coming to Him? If so, Lord forgive. Lord forbid. 

My prayer is: Lord, let the little children realize Your loving presence for them through me. And not just the little children, but ALL the children of the world, especially the ones who are seemingly invisible and have sadly lost their voice. Reach through me to save those created in Your image. All of them are precious in Your sight. Make them to also be precious in mine. Amen. 

Presence Matters Most.

No Invisible People. UNITY!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

“…future generations will be told about the Lord.” Psalms‬ ‭22:30‬b NIV

Beware

These words were strong in my thoughts this morning:

“BEWARE: TIME MARCHES ON. ETERNITY UP AHEAD.”

Say the Name, JESUS!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Afterglow “Hearts Aflame Autumn Awakening” -- Cape May, NJ 2021

Dearest Lord, In the afterglow of our Hearts Aflame Autumn Awakening, i deeply thank You for this sacred season when my brothers, Billy Joe and Stephen, and i were invited to preach revival together in Cape May, New Jersey. Even our mom, Lady Melba, and my son, Grayson, were able to join us, along with our family friend from North Carolina, June Carolyn Guthrie. It was such joyous time to share Good News and to fellowship with others hungery for holiness. Mom called our days "Heaven on earth." i couldn’t agree more. We need seasons of holy spiritual focus and opportunities to be close to other Jesus-believes. Our lives cannot go on victoriously apart from set aside times to rest and to reset our trust in You. During such seasons You are able to examine us and surely correct any spiritual slippage in our souls. i believe this is what we experienced and i also believe our earthly time together will prove to have made eternity delightfully different in some way. We are grateful debtors that Your presence embraced us especially. Enable us now to be Your witnesses more wonderfully than ever before. Amen. 

Grateful for forever and today. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

“It’s Me…” [Awaken Me, O Lord!]

We live in a world where everybody thinks someone else needs fixing. That’s a scary place to be. Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. i want to see You. -kww #awakening 

This old spiritual song comes to mind:

https://youtu.be/Kyd1M3U5VsQ

Lord, awaken me. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Emmaus Road Inspiration

These words from the Emmaus Road Bible story inspire my soul: 

“As they sat down to eat, Jesus took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them. Suddenly, their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And at that moment he disappeared! They said to each other, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?” Luke‬ ‭24:30-32‬ ‭NLT

Let us experience a real Jesus awakening. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis

Awakening

i am praying for a spiritual awakening. This song helps to express my desires, at least in part… 

https://youtu.be/idQ1n3cdgfo

i want to see You, Jesus. 

Pastor Kerry Willis

A Spectacular September Sunday Afternoon… etc.

It’s a spectacular September Sunday afternoon and all is well. My hounddog Lucy is running and playing and barking, all-the-while, as multiplied hummingbirds are flying in and out and all about in the summer breezes above my head. The clouds look like cotton candy against a soft blue sky, the grass is full and green, and the air is crisp and clean. Even, three mourning doves perched on the neighbor’s roof are adding peace to my heart, mind, soul, and strength. 

And to think, God prepared all of this for me to enjoy. Makes me anticipate with mysterious wonder just one marvelous thing…

…What else might God be preparing for those who love Him? Whatever it is, it’s beyond even spectacular!

"… No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." 1 Corinthians‬ ‭2:9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Indeed, All Is Well!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Remembering 9/11/2001 -- 20 Years Later

After 20 years, i still vividly remember September 11, 2001. i was vision pastor at Harrisonburg First Church of the Nazarene in Virginian’s Shenandoah Valley. 

On that terrible Tuesday morning, i had a golf tee time with three other staff members and four of our senior citizen guys from the local church. On about the ninth hole, my executive assistant, Angela Sipe, called my cell phone. "Have you heard about what’s happening at the Twin Towers yet?" i had not. After a brief understanding about the morning confusion, i lost all interest in golfing. We quickly rode the golf carts back to the clubhouse and made our way back to the church.

i remember thinking, "Is this World War III?" Once back at the building, our whole staff gathered in the teen room and watched the rest of the morning happen live on tv. The pain was indescribable. Immediately i called for a sacred assembly, yes an evening prayer vigil. The church was packed with members and neighbors. What a solemn gathering. 

i heard about a chapel service that day at our Nazarene Global Minsitey Center near Kansas City, where one of our General Superintendents, Dr. Jerry Porter, was asked to speak. He came to the mic and said only two words and then sat down: "JESUS WEPT!" 

In the wake of this horrific day, these words recorded in 2 Corinthians, chapter 4, were my confidence and still are: 

"We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken." -- From 2 Corinthians‬ ‭4, The Message Paraphrase

i love You. i need You. i want You, Jesus! Still on September 11, 2021. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Word Needs to See the Kingdom

The problem with the world is the world cannot depend on us as the church to live what we preach. When the world looks at us they need to see the Kingdom of God. -LaMorris Crawford 

Lord remind us Your Kingdom is within us. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Preview of Heaven

“… I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a great roar, “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!” Revelation‬ ‭7:9-10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

This Scriptural preview of Heaven is powerful for me as a pilgrim journeying THERE…

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Antidote to Exhaustion

"The antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest; the antidote is wholeheartedness. You’re so tired through and through because you are only half here and half here will kill you after a while." Brother David Steindl-Rast

Jesus, lead me on a journey to wholeheartedness. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Do Actions Really Speak Louder Than Words?

This 15-minute video is astounding to me… 

https://youtu.be/OPzfxvJ9cq8

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Religion Ruins. Relationship Recreates.

Because Jesus did a good deed on the Sabbath Day -- healed a man with a deformed hand -- the religious leaders went away from "church" angry. They began "to discuss plans for killing Jesus." Though Jesus saved a life on the Sabbath Day they preferred to destroy a life -- His life. Beware: Religion ruins. Relationship recreates. 

-kww

[Thoughts from Mark 3:1-6 NLT]

Lord Jesus, i want to be a sanctuary of Your saving presence. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

“Have No Fear of Sudden Disaster”

“My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly. You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.” Proverbs‬ ‭3:21-26‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Lord, let Your Word be my way forward to forever. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Equally

As i prayer-walked this morning, i just started speaking these tender, spontaneous words from my sincere soul to my Dear Lord and Savior: 

“Lord Jesus, i love You, i need You, i want You — equally. Amen.” -kww

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Beauty for Ashes

When i was still a local pastor, one weekend i invited Crystal Lewis to come and lead us in worship. Sevetal of her songs are especially sacred to my own soul. This is a more recent edition of one -- "Beauty for Ashes."

https://youtu.be/uILSyi___Oo

Let’s sing the Scriptures! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

What? Versus Why?

My friend and colleague, Pastor Wes Tink, shared this link with me today. i will simply say it is profoundly amazing. What? vs. Why? 

https://youtu.be/1ytFB8TrkTo

In Jesus we discover the Answer to why.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Nothing i Desire Compares With You

Today, when stormy weather was threatening, I sang this song [link below] to the Lord walking through "my outdoor cathedral." He is worthy to be worshiped always. Sing it to Him along with me now: 

https://youtu.be/0RjXVFDRqQk

And, O Come Let Us Adore Him, as well!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Jesus We Adore You -- A Simple and Sincere Prayer

A simple and sincere prayer…

Jesus, we adore You; we place our lives before You.

No one else has so loved us or given their all to save us.

You’ve proven to be The Friend above every other friend.

In Your Name we trust, find real faith in us. 

Amen and Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

"My Daddy’s Drinking"

💭 All week long my mind keeps rewinding a campmeeting moment when i was preaching -- many summers ago -- in North Carolina. It was, it seems, a Tuesday evening service and the district leader had asked all pastors to come and stand upfront with anointing oil for the corporate prayer time. Next the people were invited to come to one of the individual pastors to be anointed and prayed over. 

As i stood amongst the clergy holding a small bottle of olive oil, i remember thinking no one will likely come to me because i was the guest preacher and surely folk would go only to the pastors they personally knew. And i was fine with that.

Yet, i was wrong. One person actually came straight to me. It was a precious 8-year-old girl. i bent over and leaned in close and asked her in a whisper what her prayer request was? Shaking slightly, she tearfully said in a most beautiful, yet broken southern accent these three hard-to-forget, heart-wrenching words: "My daddy’s drinking." My own heart broke in half immediately. 

As i passionately prayed specifically for her little hurting heart and her daddy’s drinking, i lovingly wept along with her for Jesus to hear and to help. i never saw her again. i later learned she had ridden unaccompanied by a parent on a local church van to the district gathering. 

i am unsure why i haven’t been able to get this old memory out of my thoughts all week, and still again tonight it’s what i am thinking, but maybe it’s for some daddy or mommy who has a child desperately seeking and praying that you will seek Jesus and His healing deliverance for an addiction that is breaking your dear child’s heart and maybe even tearing your family apart. 

Lord, Your grace is still amazing and surely You are close to the broken-hearted. [Psalm 34:18] Help souls to seek You for new mercy and real restoration. Amen. 🙏🏼

Note: "And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil." Mark‬ ‭6:13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Jesus saves. 

Pastor Kerry Willis

You Are Highly Valued!

You know how it seems some people don’t see your value? 

YEAH THAT’S NOT JESUS! 

He gave His very life to purchase you from, sin, death and Hell. -kww

Think on this truth and let Love Himself -- Jesus -- embrace you!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Her Name is Angel from Atlanta -- "Showing Up"

Today, my son and i are in Atlanta, Georgia, for live-and-in-person Major League Baseball. Though our Braves lost to the Yankees 5-1 in the first of a two-game challenge, all is still well. 

Being together at professional ball diamonds has been our cherished daddy-and-son pastime for the past 25 years. We’ve had quite a fun run so far, approximately 30 MLB games to date. (Maybe tonight the Braves will even the score by beating the famous sluggers from the Bronx?)

As much as we enjoy baseball, no doubt the holy highlight happened today at lunch. Ever since we arrived i have sensed a strong impulsion to have a meal at a certain wings restaurant near our hotel. As we entered the establishment around noon, there she was. Yes, the young hostess was wearing a mask, yet one look into her sullen brown eyes and i sensed she was desperately hurting. Something about her demeanor was seemingly hopeless. 

Immediately, Jesus began reaching for her in compassion through me. i knew the biggest reason we had driven south to Hotlanta this summer was surely for this encounter. 

Her name is Angel. As she showed us to our table we had an especially unusual and deeply meaningful conversation while pent up tears streamed nonstop down her cheeks. Before leaving we would have two more tender talks and many more tears. She shared her story with Grayson and me and we prayerfully embraced before leaving. Jesus was so undeniably present. 

Please pray for Angel from Atlanta. She’s been having nightmares about an upcoming date on her calendar. Let me just say, "Monday will be a big day for her life." She is only 25 years old and she needs new mercy from the God Who formed her and Who is for her. It was all to obvious that we were sent presently into her precious life to encourage her and to remind her "God is not mad at her. God is mad about her!" 

The final words i said to Angel were these: "If we never meet again here -- and we probably won’t -- please promise i will find you in Heaven." She promised. Then, i said, "There will be many angels in Heaven, but i will be looking for Angel from Atlanta!" Her parting smile was so full of hope! Unbelievable how her countenance transformed from seemingly hopeless to surely hopeful in an hour. 

Prayer: Dearest Jesus, i am so humbled and grateful that You would entrust us to be found "showing up" presently in Angel’s broken life, so You could be found "showing off" personally as her restoring Lord. i am a great and grateful debtor. Even now, i intercede for this cherished soul, Angel from Atlanta, asking that Your mercy will continue to renew everyday in her life, especially as this coming Monday approaches and then beyond. Turn her scary nightmares into Your splendid dreams. Amen and Amen. 

Presence Matters Most!

No Invisible People!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Added note: On the way to the ballpark later in the day, i sensed the Lord leading me back to the restaurant to tell Angel i had asked my friends to pray for her. Her smile enlarged as her hope expanded. Thanks prayer partners. In Eternity we will get the rest of the story. To God be the glory. 

Absolute Freedom

O that i could somehow truly describe to those in bondage the absolute freedom that is mine and can also be theirs only in Jesus! 

Let it be so, my rescuing Lord. 

Pastor Kerry Willis

Jesus Calls Matthew — “No Invisible People”

What a blessing this Lord’s Day to preach from this passage recorded in the Gospels:

“Then Jesus went out to the lakeshore again and taught the crowds that were coming to him. As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at his tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me and be my disciple,’ Jesus said to him. So Levi got up and followed him. Later, Levi invited Jesus and his disciples to his home as dinner guests, along with many tax collectors and other disreputable sinners. (There were many people of this kind among Jesus’ followers.) But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with such scum?’ When Jesus heard this, he told them, ‘Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.’” Mark‬ ‭2:13-17‬ ‭NLT‬‬

So glad to be one soul among those Jesus has called. i believe He calls every soul. With Jesus there are no invisible people. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Lord, My Heart Adores You and Your Holiness [My Prayer]

My Lord, my heart adores You and Your holiness. i live to love You. You alone are Everything i desire. 

My Lord, my heart adores You and Your holiness. i breathe to please You. Your wonder cannot be surpassed by anyone or anything. 

My Lord, my heart adores You and Your holiness. Apart from You no good thing can i expect to ever experience. 

My Lord, my heart adores You and Your holiness. To be a sanctuary of Your Presence is the utmost purpose and passion of my existence on earth and for all Eternity. 

Amen and Amen. 

Deo Volente — whatever God wants!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

"He’s Always Been Faithful"

Yesterday, while listening to "Softly and Tenderly" by Sara Groves, this song also came up. It blesses my heart. 

https://youtu.be/BPnXMITllRI

Almighty God, You are always faithful.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Ye Who Are Weary Come Home

This old song of invitation reminds me of altar calls inside the old Free Grace Wesleyan Church chapel located alongside the Old Ferry Dock Road on Harkers Island, North Carolina. i am grateful for my childhood church. 

https://youtu.be/57aBt-cRZ2E

Softly and Tenderly Jesus is calling,”Come home.”

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Some Days Your Nerves Seem Frayed -- "Homesickness for Heaven"

i have learned so much from my family and especially my Mom, Lady Melba. My Mom’s maiden name is Davis. She has taught me that some days your nerves seem frayed. And it’s alright. In our immediate Davis family tree, "bad nerves" have been a reality. Those who don’t understand it, just don’t. Those who do understand it, just do. 

If all of this nerve-talk makes no sense to you, it’s okay, it really is. Yet the idea of nerve problems is a reality for many people. And here’s the clincher, it’s not usually an indicator of your spiritual life. It’s just part of being human.

So, why am i writing this today. Honestly, because some days my nerves seem frayed. And, i have some of that Davis DNA happening in my own life, today. Want an example of what it’s like? The smallest of tasks can seem daunting, even overwhelming. It’s like an unpredictable yet undeniable paralysis of the mind. 

Is it a big deal? Not necessarily. Just somewhat "unnerving." At times i feel a little up in the air mentally and life seems a little raw emotionally. There’s no apparent reason for it. 

So, i will simply keep looking to Jesus and know He will help me to carry on. Maybe the Davis’ "bad nerves" is akin to what the apostle Paul called "a thorn in the flesh." It’s part of what our family has dealt with for generations. Nevertheless, in it all, God has proven over and over and over again that His grace is enough. Here’s the good part, while at times my human nerves do seem frayed, yet always Jesus is my holy hope and stay. 

So, all-in-all, all is well. In fact, when people ask me what "frayed nerves" feels like, i always say: "Homesickness for Heaven." 

"But we are citizens of Heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for Him to return as our Savior. He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like His own…" Philippians 3:20-21a NLT

i hope my vulnerability helps you in some way, today. Writing about it helped me break through a little. 

Another thing my Mom taught me: "Let us pray one for the other."  Grateful. Very. 

Trusting always. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Night Prayer

My Dearest Lord,

As night has fallen and sleep seems close, i must confess You love me most.

Your kindness truly floods my days and Your grace continues to amaze. 

With morning Your loving mercy will renew, and give me strength to keep on trusting You.

Amen and Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Righteous Rest -- A Prayer

Lord Jesus, i love to hear Your voice and i always especially need Your words of rest recorded in Matthew 11:28-30…

"Then Jesus said, ‘Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.’" Matthew‬ ‭11:28-30‬ ‭NLT‬‬

i am so very grateful, dearest Jesus, that You alone know my true needs and You tenderly care so very much about restoring rest to my life -- heart, mind, soul, and strength. i am forever in need and in want of Your real presence. Amen. 

You are my Righteous Rest, Loving Lord!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

i Am Not Abandoned — A Prayer

Your awesome presence, dearest Jesus, is everything, all the time, to me. 

Apart from Your everlasting embrace, i would be totally lost for forever and today. 

i rejoice in knowing You continually come after me, always desiring to know me deeply and to flood my existence with Your holy kindness. 

Thank You precious Lord for Your amazing compasssion towards me; it cannot be denied. 

Your very presence is my vital essence. i am not abandoned by You, for surely i am among Your beloved ones. 

i am a great and grateful debtor. i want to be incredibly devoted to You without end. Amen. 

Maranatha! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Minister Mercy and Happy Happens

"He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he."‭‭ Proverbs‬ ‭14:21‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

If we will minister mercy to the poor, happiness will find us. -kww

Homework: Let’s be merciful in generosity to some neighbor poorer than ourselves today and see if holy happiness happens in our lives. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

From Complicated to Simple

“When life gets complicated, simply trust Jesus!” -kww

“Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Hebrews 11:6 

Lord, i want to trust You in these days. Give me faith. -kww

https://youtu.be/SjFIhTNDyz0

i want to be found believing totally.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

We Will Understand Someday

“Jesus replied, ‘You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.’” ‭‭John‬ ‭13:7 [NLT]

https://youtu.be/Jl0r58RdLVU

Simply Trusting.

Pastor Kerry Willis  

"Redeemed and Restored" -- My Return Message at Harrisonburg Nazarene on August 8, 2021

Thanks Pastor Adrian Mills and Harrisonburg First Church of the Nazarene in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. It was a blessing to return today with Good News to the local church i pastored some 24 years from 1994-2018. It truly was a sacred privilege. 

My message from Mark 2:1-12 was titled "Redeemed and Restored." 

Here’s the YouTube Link:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UKJdvRX7i1M&t=8s

Have Good News! Must Travel!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

i Awoke With a Verse Strong on My Mind

This morning i awoke with a single Scripture reference extremely strong on my mind. 

i immediately looked it up— Matthew 8:7 NLT:

i am sensing i should share it publicly just in case someone needs to claim it, today. 

“Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.”

Pray always.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

‭

For He Is So Precious To Me [Jesus Is…]

In talking with my Mom, Lady Melba, today, she reminded me of this old song of the church and said she sings a portion of it almost every day of her life. Today she quoted the last verse to me on the phone and I had to go and find a YouTube link to share on my blog. I pray that Jesus is precious to you and to me.

https://youtu.be/Ck029ME6R0g

Please Love Jesus Passionately!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

A Sacred Privilege to Preach from Mark 2:1-12 This Coming Sunday

i am blessed to preach from this passage this coming Sunday, August 8, 2021, on my first return to the pulpit in 3 years at Harrisonburg, Virginia Church of the Nazarene where i pastored for 24 years from 1994-2018. It is a sacred privilege. 

Mark 2:1-12 [NLT] © 1997 Edition

[1] Several days later Jesus returned to Capernaum and the news of His arrival spread quickly through the town. [2] Soon the house where He was staying was so packed with visitors that there wasn’t room for one more person, not even outside the door. [3] Four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. [4] They couldn’t get to Jesus through the crowd, so they dug through the clay roof above His head. Then they lowered the sick man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. [5] Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My son, your sins are forgiven.“ [6] But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there said to themselves, [7] “What? This is blasphemy! Who but God can forgive sins!” [8] Jesus knew what they were discussing among themselves, so He said to them, “Why do you think this is blasphemy? [9] Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven’ or ‘Get up, pick up your mat, and walk’? [10] I will prove that I, the Son of Man, have the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, [11] “Stand up, take your mat, and go on home because you are healed!” [12] The man jumped up, took the mat, and pushed his way through the stunned onlookers. Then they all praised God. “We’ve never seen anything like this before!“ they exclaimed.

i love bringing Good News!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Secret Times of Prayer

“Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.”‭‭Mark‬ ‭1:35‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Lord, help us to find our secret times to restore our strength as we seek Your face in prayer. Amen. 

Pray always. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Just When You Thought…

“Just when you thought God had exhausted His kindness, His compassion comes and pulls you out of hiding…”

Lyrics from a song sung Saturday night at Pittsburgh Nazarene Family Camp, 2021

Lord, You’ve been so, so kind to me!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Do You Love Me?

This question the Resurrected Jesus asked Peter on the shores of the Galilee is deep in my thought-life this week: "Do You Love Me?"

Actually, i believe this is the most essential question we must answer if we really want to be devoted disciples of the Lord. 

If we truly do love Jesus, the proof will be in our full surrender to His desires for our lives. Peter would prove his love for Jesus in part by surrendering everything familiar to him as a fisherman to become what Jesus wanted him to be, yes, a fisher of souls and also a feeder of sheep, a shepherd. 

Peter was asked by the Lord to exit his comfort zone to prove his love for Jesus. And we know Peter did just what Jesus asked of him. The fisherman also embraced his discomfort zone, yes, in addition to pulling nets to catch lost souls, he also leaned into shepherding the flocks of the Good Shepherd -- not catch and release, but catch and then care for the Lord’s lambs and sheep. Will we surrender all of our dreams for our own lives for His Heavenly vision? Will we give up our right to ourselves to Him?

If we want to be His disciples, we must begin by answering the very personal question Jesus is asking us: "Do You Love Me?" 

Let’s Love Jesus Passionately!

Pastor Kerry Willis

Here’s Nothing. Here’s Everything. The Greatest Exchange.

"When we surrender our all to Jesus it’s like we are saying to Him, ‘Here’s Nothing’ and then hearing Him say back to us, ‘Here’s Everything!’" -kww

"For God took the sinless Christ and poured into Him our sins. Then in exchange, Jesus poured God’s goodness into us!" 2 Corinthians 5:21 TLB

Lord, thanks for calling me into the Greatest Exchange, ever -- all of me for all of You! Amen.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Jesus Knows Busy

Sometimes even in kingdom work, busy happens… 

“One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon He and His disciples couldn’t even find time to eat.” Mark‬ ‭3:20‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Be busy about the Father’s business…

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Amazing Teaching

"Jesus and His companions went to the town of Capernaum. When the Sabbath day came, He went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at His teaching, for He taught with real authority--quite unlike the teachers of religious law." Mark‬ ‭1:21-22‬ ‭NLT

Lord, please preach, teach, and reach with Your amazing authority through me. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Catch

My Dad passionately fished his whole life to feed his family. He never forgot it was ultimately all about the catch. Dad endlessly gave His all to increase the harvest in his nets. As a fisher of souls, i never want to lose sight of increasing God’s family. Lord forbid that i would see “fishing” as a mere pastime and forget the tragedy of empty nets. -kww

Go fish.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Man on the Middle Cross Said…

My friend and ministry partner, Rev. BW, sent me this video clip. It blesses my heart. I pray you will also be blessed by it… 

https://youtu.be/xk9wgJBoEd8

In Christ Alone…

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Say The Name of Jesus — He Alone is Our Salvation

“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among people by which we must be saved [for God has provided the world no alternative for salvation].” Acts‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let’s say aloud the Name that saves us — JESUS!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

A Moving Story of Compassion About Jesus

This is such a moving story of compassion about Jesus…

"A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. "If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean," he said. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. "I am willing," he said. "Be healed!" Instantly the leprosy disappeared, and the man was healed. Then Jesus sent him on his way with a stern warning: "Don’t tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed." But the man went and spread the word, proclaiming to everyone what had happened. As a result, large crowds soon surrounded Jesus, and he couldn’t publicly enter a town anywhere. He had to stay out in the secluded places, but people from everywhere kept coming to him." Mark‬ ‭1:40-45‬ ‭NLT‬‬

These are the things i wrote down as i read this account:

* The man with leprosy came, knelt and even begged to be healed. 

* He wanted to be healed and Jesus wanted to heal him. 

* Even though Jesus told him not to tell others, the man could not keep such Good News to himself. 

* As a result, the crowds gathered around Jesus so heavily that Jesus had to move to secluded places yet the people still came to where Jesus was. 

My prayer: Jesus, You were The Hope of the world then and you still are. Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Traveling Preacher

“So He traveled throughout the region… preaching…” Mark 1:39b [NLT]

Humbled beyond description and blessed beyond measure that these seven words concerning Jesus’ joy-description seem to closely define my own call these days. -kww

”How beautiful are the feet of those who bring Good News…” — From Romans 10:15

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Goods News -- Beautiful Feet

i preached on this powerful passage Sunday evening. i love these Good News words Jesus shared….  simple yet profound:

"After John (the Baptist) was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. "The time has come," He said. "The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!" ‭‭Mark‬ ‭1:14-15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

”How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news…” — From Romans 10:15

How beautiful are the feet of Jesus! --kww 

Believe totally.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

“Church Attendance”

Many today don’t attend church probably because the church isn’t absolutely perfect. 

Jesus knew the synagogue of His day wasn’t absolutely perfect, nevertheless, we read these words about His “church attendance” in Mark 1:21 [NLT] — “Every sabbath day He went into the synagogue...” Yes, Jesus believed in showing up. 

Meeting together in a faith community must truly matter. 

Just thinking outloud.

Pastor Kerry Willis

Humbled and Grateful and Encouraged

This morning a friend sent me a message saying this passage reminded them of me for some reason. i am humbled and grateful and encouraged…

“Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance! I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety. For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave. You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.” Psalms‬ ‭16:5-11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Presence Matters Most!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Fear

My dear friend, Dr. Brian Charette, wrote this devotional piece on the topic of fear for our Philadelphia District Church of the Nazarene family. i believe you will appreciate it as well.

Click link:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OIfmRcf2FGiVCd5EeFv5i83C1f46AuLHl_So0v0vxiI/mobilebasic

Fear? Not!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Turn Your Eyes…

This sacred song has been on my mind and across my lips since early morning… 

https://youtu.be/j5qc0EcNgqw

Jesus, i look to You. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Joseph of Arimathea Loved Jesus of Nazareth Passionately

After reading these words recorded by Mark immediately after Jesus died of crucifixion, i can only tenderly say: "Joseph of Arimathea loved Jesus of Nazareth passionately…

"This all happened on Friday, the day of preparation, the day before the Sabbath. As evening approached, Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.) Pilate couldn’t believe that Jesus was already dead, so he called for the Roman officer and asked if he had died yet. The officer confirmed that Jesus was dead, so Pilate told Joseph he could have the body. Joseph bought a long sheet of linen cloth. Then he took Jesus’ body down from the cross, wrapped it in the cloth, and laid it in a tomb that had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a stone in front of the entrance. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where Jesus’ body was laid." Mark‬ ‭15:42-47‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Please love Jesus passionately.

Pastor Kerry Willis

“… Listen to My Teaching…”

“Then Jesus added, ‘Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given—and you will receive even more. To those who listen to My teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.’” Mark‬ ‭4:24-25‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Understanding requires listening… -kww

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Deo Volente. Amen.

This morning i awoke with these words in my thought-filled prayers:

"Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done…"

i posted these words on social media and a friend sent me this powerful song link titled "Amen!"

https://youtu.be/txwm368ViHM

Pray always. Deo Volente. As God wills. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Mock Worship

These words make my heart definitely tender towards and desiring to be true to my Jesus…

“The soldiers took Jesus into the courtyard of the governor’s headquarters (called the Praetorium) and called out the entire regiment. They dressed him in a purple robe, and they wove thorn branches into a crown and put it on his head. Then they saluted him and taunted, “Hail! King of the Jews!” And they struck him on the head with a reed stick, spit on him, and dropped to their knees in mock worship. When they were finally tired of mocking him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him again. Then they led him away to be crucified.” Mark‬ ‭15:16-20‬ ‭NLT‬‬

My Jesus i love Thee…

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Make Me One Mind With You, Lord.

i am not sure i can describe what i want to communicate today, but i am going to just begin sharing and see where it goes. 

This morning when i awoke, i sensed the Lord desiring me to seek His mind in a somewhat new and unique way. It was so intriguing. It was like he wanted me to silently focus and just to think on the issues going on in my life and ministry while simulataneouly aligning these issues at hand with the people and appointments written on my calendar presently and in the upcoming days. i could hardly believe the peace this practice brought to my inner being. 

i often counsel people to turn worry into worship. It was a little bit like that. It was almost like He was trying to get me to see the meetings with people i have over the next couple of weeks as being actual answers to some of the ministry challenges i have had on my mind. And it really helped me. i actually could see some answers coming together as i trusted the Lord in this manner. 

The best way i know to say it is the Lord is answering one of my nonstop prayers “to make me one mind with Him.”

i don’t know what else to say at this point except “i recommend trying to comprehend what i am attempting to share.” 

Basically, i am inviting you to believe that God is working all things for our good and for His glory. 

This song also comes to mind: 

https://youtu.be/WTJ2WYjhCVs

Think Christlike.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

"Jesus Said, ‘I AM… You Will See…’”

This passage from Mark’s account of the Gospel story concerning our Lord Jesus moves me deeply… 

"Then the high priest stood up before the others and asked Jesus, "Well, aren’t you going to answer these charges? What do you have to say for yourself?" But Jesus was silent and made no reply. Then the high priest asked him, "Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?" Jesus said, "I Am. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven." Mark‬ ‭14:60-62‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Maranatha -- O Come, Lord Jesus, Come! Amen. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Fourth of July Message in Song

On this Fourth of July as i reflect on freedom, this message in song is tenderly on my heart…

https://youtu.be/Q7EPZV56PuA

Please Love Jesus Passionately!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Tears

In talking with my Mom, Lady Melba, today, she said this verse has been on her heart:

"They that sow in tears shall reap in joy." Psalm‬ ‭126:5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Then Mom said something that fascinated my heart: "Some people who say they don’t want tears can give theirs to me. Tears lead me to the joy of God’s presence."

Pray always.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

If We Reject and Don’t Accept Jesus, Judgement Comes.

"I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark. I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world and not to judge it. But all who reject me and my message will be judged on the day of judgment by the truth I have spoken." Words of Jesus, John‬ ‭12:46-48‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Father God, help us to hear and obey Jesus and never to reject Him or His message, for judgement will then be upon us. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. 

Please accept, don’t reject, Jesus -- The Truth!

Pastor Kerry Willis 

My Prayer Request

Today, a dear pastor sent me a message asking: “May I ask how I can pray for you?” 

This was my reply:

“Thanks. Yes. That the mind of Christ would be being formed within me moment-by-moment. That i would trust Jesus in all things with childlike faith without interruption.” -kww

Pray always.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Purify Our Pouting

Lord please purify Your people from pouting lest real persecution arrives and catches us weak in self-pity. Amen. -kww

Pray always.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Saturday Night Revival — “Surrender”

On Saturday night and Sunday morning, i was blessed to preach in revival at Reading, Pennsylvania. The Lord strongly met us in both services and the beautiful altar responses were like Heaven touching earth to my soul. 

Saturday night was beautifully unusual. i quoted one verse, Galatians 2:20, and then it was like the Lord built a fire wall between me and my notes. It was great. He gave me every sentence to speak until the conclusion. Let me just say: “The messenger was amazed and grateful.”

Here’s the service if you have time to watch. Warning: It’s close to two hours from beginning to end. 

https://youtu.be/YJz4676IAjI

i surrender all again! 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

The Truth That Sanctifies…

"The Truth that sanctifies begins with cleansing of heart and motive, a life surrendered to The Divine Will, and personality possessed by and filled with The Holy Spirit -- and i very nearly missed the Way." -- Samuel Chadwick 

Surrendered to the One Who is The Way, The Truth and The Life -- Jesus Himself. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Comforting Thoughts

When spiritual warfare is underway in our lives, let’s remember the enemy does not give us more attention than our Father God does. -kww

Early this morning the Lord seemed to be speaking these words deep to my weary mind. Comforting thoughts indeed.

Believing totally.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Words of Jesus, Mark 12:38-40

“Jesus also taught: ‘Beware of these teachers of religious law! For they like to parade around in flowing robes and receive respectful greetings as they walk in the marketplaces. And how they love the seats of honor in the synagogues and the head table at banquets. Yet they shamelessly cheat widows out of their property and then pretend to be pious by making long prayers in public. Because of this, they will be more severely punished.’” Mark‬ ‭12:38-40‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Please Love Jesus and all others passionately.

Pastor Kerry Willis  

Mourning

“The heart of the wise [learns when it] is in the house of mourning, But the heart of fools is [senseless] in the house of pleasure.”Ecclesiastes‬ ‭7:4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Blessed [forgiven, refreshed by God’s grace] are those who mourn [over their sins and repent], for they will be comforted [when the burden of sin is lifted].” Matthew‬ ‭5:4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Love passionately. 

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Prayer is About Relationship with The Everlasting Father -- Father’s Day 2021

i was blessed to preach on this Holy Father’s Day Sunday morning for both services at Lynchburg, Virginia, Church of the Nazarene where my youngest brother, Stephen, is lead pastor.

The services were similar but my message was somewhat different in the second service. i am posting it below. If you need encouragement for your prayer life, perhaps this will be helpful.

https://youtu.be/kzq-aWw6Zlo

Love passionately.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

Dreaming About Daddy

It’s Father’s Day Weekend 2021 in the good ol’ U.S. of A. When my Daddy, Capt. Billy, was living, he missed his own Daddy, Capt. Gray, fiercely, like i miss him now. My Daddy often had dreams about his Daddy. Those dreams were so inspiring. 

Well, last night i awoke after dreaming about my Daddy…

i was somewhere away from our home and was getting ready for a wedding and realized i had the wrong suit of clothes. i had a gray, pinstripe suit and needed my black suit. i phoned Momma and Daddy and they agreed to drive the suit i needed to wherever i was. 

On the phone call -- as i gave them driving directions -- i could hear Daddy joking in the background and making Momma laugh as usual. 

Finally, they arrived in their old, light-blue, Pontiac Catalina with a white vinyl top. i got the right suit of clothes from them. There was joy in the atmosphere and in my heart. Then i awoke. It was 5:30 a.m. Been kind of smiling ever since. 

As i have reflected on the dream, i do surely know my Momma and Daddy did all they could do to live as sanctuaries of the presence of the Lord, in part, to make sure their three sons got the right suit of clothes on for the Married Supper of the Lamb. 

i am a great and grateful debtor. Indeed. Happy Father’s Day in Heaven, Daddy. In the sweet by-and-by, we shall meet on that beautiful shore. 

Love passionately.

Pastor Kerry Willis 

"Holiness Unto the Lord" by Pastor Dan LeRoy

Humbled to read this writing by one of my friends and mentors in life, Pastor Dan LeRoy:

My dear friend Kerry Willis is the district superintendent of the Philadelphia District for the Church of the Nazarene. He’s a Harkers Island boy who grew up in our Free Grace Wesleyan Church there. My dad was his boyhood pastor. 

Kerry is a great, Spirit-filled advocate for holiness. Kerry is one of those people the Lord chooses to wear like a coat. 

He tells the story of riding his bicycle to the church on the Old Ferry Dock Road to watch my dad and Samuel Davis, the Island sign-painter, hang a fifteen foot wide sign on the front wall of the sanctuary, prominently placed above the pulpit for all to see. It read, ‘Holiness Unto the Lord’, in gold, Old English script on a natural stained board, in high gloss finish. It just shines. 

Kerry says witnessing the hanging of that sign was a moment of inspiration that has impacted his life to this day. ‘Holiness Unto the Lord’ got deep into his heart. 

There was one thing about us, back in the day. Our church neighbors around the corner had a brass cross sitting on their communion table inscribed with the Latin phrase, ‘In Hoc Signo’. 

Not us. 

We didn’t even have a brass cross in that little Island church. And if we were going to have a sign, it wasn’t going to be in Latin. It was going to be in English, and it was going to be bold, and it was going to tell you who we were and what we believed. And we were going to do our best to live up to that sign. We didn’t always accomplish that, but it wasn’t for a lack of trying. 

That sanctuary burned down in a lightning storm a decade ago. The congregation had just finished a new sanctuary and the old sanctuary, attached to the new construction, had been converted into a fellowship hall. 

The ‘Holiness Unto the Lord’ sign had just been moved from the old sanctuary and was placed over the entrance doors in the new sanctuary. By God’s intervening grace, the fire that destroyed the old sanctuary burned right up to the side door of the new sanctuary, but came no further. 

The battle for the heart, soul, mind and future of The Wesleyan Church will be won or lost in the same proportion ‘Holiness Unto the Lord’ is lived and proclaimed by the pastors and people of The Wesleyan Church. 

I’m talking about that holiness that, by the power of the Holy Spirit working in us, is best described as Christlikeness. The kind of dynamic that does not simply confine itself to being ‘personal sin management’, but is characterized by the love of God filling us in such a way that it transforms every aspect of our lives, and overflows into all our relationships, everywhere we have influence, and into every dark place we take it. 

May we be like the young Kerry who has never gotten over his encounter with the Holy One through his boyhood church’s testimony of ‘Holiness Unto the Lord!’

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify us through and through. May we be kept blameless until the day of his appearing. May we know the reality, by faith, that the One who calls us is faithful, and he will do it!

It is for real. It is for now. It is for you.

Pastor Dan LeRoy, Retired Wesleyan District Superintendent 

A Few Words from Pastor Kerry’s Daily Journal

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

i love you Jesus, nevertheless i know You loved me first and You love me most. 

i want to thank You, Lord, for this week of campmeeting with the Philadelphia District family at the Erma Holiness Campground in Cape May, New Jersey. 

On this Tuesday, the double-blessing day for the Hebrew, i want to give thanks for a new double-blessing my life -- Claire and Tom Rivera. Lord, this couple from our Royersford, Pennsylvania congregation drip with Your presence in my life. (And o how they love You and their pastor, Peter Clarke.)

Claire and Tom are relatively new to the Church of the Nazarene. Their compassionate ministry in their local church and community is called "Illumination" and o my, are they examples of their mission name.

Claire and Tom have been so excited to attend their first holiness campmeeting. Weeks before the event their social media posts were inspiring me and many others. The week before the gathering Claire sent me these words in a text: 

"Hi Pastor Kerry!! i just want to let you know that i am SO EXCITED for holiness camp. Tom and I are there the whole time. If you need logistic support (help with set up/clean up, to bring anything, worship team vocal fill in, etc. etc.) feel free to put us to work. I have no idea what to expect so I can’t predict what you may need. Just want you to know there are two pairs of hands willing to help."

i immediately forwarded the Rivera’s phone numbers to John Sharpless, our campmeeting servant leader and he connected right away with Claire and Tom. Talk about a match made in Heaven! Wow! Praise the Lord!

We are only in Day 3 of our summer spiritual get-together and Claire and Tom are basically lighting up the whole campground. They are the first ones in the tabernacle each service and have been working behind the scenes alongside my wife dear Kim and Shannon Gipple who leads the Erma Camp staff, etc. Claire and Tom have quickly and beautifully found their place at the beverage table for each meal and the water cooler in the tabernacle and when i just left the dining hall kitchen area after breakfast Claire was washing dishes and Tom was hauling heavy trash bags to the dumpster. They are illuminating and transforming the atmosphere as carriers of the presence of Jesus.

Lord, help us all to be revived and to show up as carriers of Your illuminating and transforming presence wherever we may be or go. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. 

P.S. Claire and Tom Rivera have been the highlight for our evangelist, Dr. Stephen Manley. He just gravitates to them before and after every service. 

Friends, it’s really true! Presence Matters Most! 

Pastor Kerry Willis