So many people in these difficult times are struggling with health issues, financial issues, marriage/family issues, and concern over our government, our economy and world affairs. Many families who love and seek the Lord wholeheartedly are experiencing tragic devastation and loss. However, Scripture tells us to “not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God (Phil. 4:6).”

Scripture provides record of the Son of God, Jesus Christ in Spirit and in flesh, spending days and sleepless nights in prayer before His Heavenly Father, seeking to daily bring the will of Heaven to Earth. If the Son of God had to spend valuable time in prayer (He completed His earthly ministry in three years), why do the sons and daughters of the Most High God through Jesus Christ (His Body) think it should be any different for us?

Scripture contains and details much with regard to the Lord’s heart concerning prayer. If we are to be the vessels He can make the Earth His footstool through (Isaiah 66:1/Acts 7:49), we must follow the example of Christ and become a people of prayer who understand that today’s prayers matter. If we are to truly be the Body of Christ being prepared as His pure and spotless Bride to be presented to Him upon His return, we must walk in the revelation of praying His Kingdom come and His will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven as a daily prayer impacting today and all todays for generations to come throughout eternity! How else will His glory cover the Earth as the waters cover the sea except through a praying people who daily carry the heart and will of Heaven here on Earth (Hab. 2:14)?

We must purpose to pray continually (1 Thes. 5:17). If our words are spoken through the love of the Father, they will speak life into every individual and every circumstance. Isn’t that what prayer is all about: bringing the eternal life and all of Heaven’s goodness and abundance to Earth exactly as it is in Heaven? This command is not conditional as to whether we agree with what’s transpiring.

Let me offer a relevant example. Many in our nation strongly disagree with the liberal humanistic socialist agenda attempting to “change” and invade our nation, myself included. Our role as followers of Christ is to pray fervently for the hearts of those in positions of power and leadership to be transformed by the blood of Christ and the Kingdom of Heaven, and that the Lord would remove those leaders whose hearts refuse to follow His leading.

The sooner the Body of Christ understands our role as His house of prayer (Amos 9:11; Isaiah 56:7; Matthew 21:13; Mark 11:17; Luke 19:46), the sooner our King will be glorified by His love and mercy covering the nations. Prayer changes things, even when we don’t see the answers manifest how or when we in our limited human understanding expect. When we pray we can be assured that the Father is at work on our behalf (Isaiah 66:5) and works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called by His name (Rom. 8:28). Many years ago, the Lord gave me a song called, “Pray and Never Give Up.” This is the heart and will of Heaven and our daily assignment, because today matters, and today’s prayers matter for all eternity!

The Lord is causing His people to be stirred and stretched into prayers of faith, prayers of trust, prayers of hope, prayers of perseverance, and prayers of resting in Him; resting and knowing He is who He says He is and that He will do what He says He will do. How does He work? He established us to rule over the Earth through the authority we’ve been given by the blood of Christ, the Word of Christ and the Spirit of Christ flowing through our prayers! We don’t have to understand His ways because His Word says they are higher than our ways. We are to receive, love and trust Him enough to follow.

Therefore, remember how important today is, and how important is every prayer we pray. Everything about today is a gift. The sooner we thank Him for the gift of today and pray the things on His heart for today, the sooner His fullness of life will not only manifest in our daily circumstances, but also in the circumstances of others. Prayer is truly how we express our love to our Heavenly Father and His love through us to others. There is no greater purpose and there is no other way to bring His goodness and the unlimited economy of Heaven to Earth…today!

Don’t let this day, May 23, 2010, or the privilege of this opportunity, Global Day of Prayer, pass us by. Please visit www.globaldayofprayermn.com for information, resources, and radio station coverage of the Twins Cities Global Day of Prayer Event, Sunday, May 23, from 5-8 p.m. at Trask Worship Center, Northcentral University, Minneapolis, MN. See also: www.globaldayofprayer.com for additional resources and prayer downloads leading up to this signficant event, beginning May 13, 2010. This is the sixth time MN will join millions across the globe, 220 nations, participating in repentance and glorifying the name of Jesus Christ!

Artistic Jewels: I Carry Gifts The World Needs
the arts express’d
Spontaneous Expression Of Creative Arts, Gifts, And Talents
Hearing And Seeing The Frequencies Of Heaven On Earth
Training In Playing and Singing Skillfully

His Kingdom Come And His Will Be Done

Practical Teaching Tools
• A Vocabulary of Life
You Are A Good Idea: A Letter From God
I Am A Good Idea: A Letter To God
• I Have A Gift Within Me: Practical Teaching Lesson For Kingdom Jewels
Our Spiritual Kingdom Inheritance
Kingdom Jewels
• I Carry Gifts The World Needs: Transforming The Seven Mountains
• A Model For Hearing The Voice Of The Lord: Adapted From Matthew 6:9-13
• Hitting The Mark
• The Open Door: The Third Heaven
• The Open Door: An Invitation To The Throne Room
• The Open Door: Singing The Scriptures
• The Open Door: Singing The Scripture References
• The Open Door: Kingdom Warriors
• The Open Door: Unity Is Key
• A Vocabulary Of Life Word List

*ALSO AVAILABLE: No More Orphans! Intercessory Piano CD.
No More Orphans! Piano CD Background Information
All songs copyright 2010 Tammy Sorenson/Jaran Family Ministries/the arts express’d

Blessed Are
The words of this song come from Mark 10:16, Matthew 5:3-12 and Luke 6:20-26.

Lord, Your heart is breaking for the children…the hungry and the poor who cry in shame. Your Spirit is awakening Your people, who’ll tell them that You know each one by name. You’ve heard their cries for freedom. You’ve seen their hurt and pain. You love them as a Father and Your Son died for their gain.

Blessed are the poor and needy. Blessed are the ones who mourn. Blessed are the gentle and lowly, the Kingdom is yours. Blessed are the hungry and thirsty. Blessed are the pure in heart. Blessed are the persecuted, the Kingdom is yours.

Blessed are the merciful. Blessed are those who work for peace. Blessed are those who seek Your heart, sharing Your great love throughout the world. Blessed are the children. Your heart is breaking for them. Blessed are believers when they share and every child receives.

I Am
This song was inspired by the words Jesus spoke in the Gospels.

I see every face on every single child that nobody wanted; the world threw them away. I see every tear on every single face of every broken heart needing someone to look their way.

I Am the only answer. Don’t believe the lies they say. I Am the only hope you’re all crying out for this day. How did we get to here and how do we get to where we need to be?  Jesus is My Name.

I see every child, hungry, sick, abused, crying for someone to take away their pain. I see every child empty and alone fearing that no one cares or knows their name.

I Am the love you’re looking for. I Am peace and so much more. I Am your way, your truth, your life, I Am. I Am the freedom that you seek. I Am your strength when you are weak. I Am your shelter from this storm…I Am.

How did we get to here and how do we get to where we need to be?  Jesus is My Name. Do you hear My voice? Do you know My Word?  Jesus is My Name.

Every Child is a Gift
This spontaneous instrumental song was inspired by Psalm 127:3. The message of the song is contained in my new book, also entitled, No More Orphans! Every child is a God idea, and is therefore a good idea. Every child has been sent to Earth as a gift, and as a carrier of gifts the world needs. Every child is invited to receive our Heavenly Father’s greatest gift of love and eternal life through the sacrifice of His only Son, Jesus Christ. The gift of Holy Spirit within activates and empowers both the infinite treasure of Christ Jesus and the specific gifts He has placed within each individual. These gifts are to manifest and be carried as an expression of Heaven on the Earth.

For the Orphaned
This song passionately expresses instrumental intercession on behalf of everyone who has been abandoned, rejected, discarded, or orphaned by tragedy. The spontaneous music reflects the daily questions and the unknowns in being orphaned: wondering if anyone cares, of survival, and of existence itself. It also carries the promise of Jesus in John 14:18 to not leave us as orphans.

“Does anyone see me? Does anyone care about me? I have dreams of being wanted, of belonging, of being loved. There are so many like me needing to know hope, needing to know purpose, needing to know we have a future, needing to know Love. Does anyone see me?”

For the Poor
This spontaneous instrumental song came from meditating on Luke 6:20-21. Jesus promises the kingdom of God to those who are poor and hungry in this present age. The music reflects the heart of the Father and His promise to fill them according to the riches of His eternal Kingdom of Heaven.

For the Sick
This spontaneous song was inspired as intercession for a precious family standing in faith on 1 Peter 2:24 and the healing of their husband and father. I dedicate this song to the Ted Landmark family, and give glory and honor to our Heavenly Father for this family’s overcoming testimony of faith. Ted is now eternally healed in the presence of Jesus. I pray this song will comfort and heal the hearts of those who must stand strong in faith and walk out the unseen.

For the War-Torn & Persecuted
This spontaneous instrumental piece was inspired by 2 Corinthians 4 and Philippians 4:7. As intercessory music, it reflects the tension, the monotony, and the perseverance of victims who daily battle living in the midst of war and persecution. It is also a prayer for His peace in the midst their storms.

For the Unborn
This spontaneous instrumental piece is wholehearted intercession on behalf of the sanctity of life, and contains a layer of sound intended to reflect life in the womb. For the Unborn represents being a “voice” for those who cannot speak for themselves. The Lord promises covering and deliverance from evil in Psalm 139:13 and Galatians 1:4. Until His heart and will on behalf of these precious and innocent ones manifests on the Earth, a sound must cry out.

Isaiah 61 for the Abused & Slavery
The melody of this song comes from the Hebrew translation of Isaiah 61:1-2, also decreed by Jesus in Luke 4:18-19. Christ in us IS the hope of glory. We are given His Spirit to carry His anointing and set the captives free. The word of the Lord never returns void, and always accomplishes what He sends it to do. This song intercedes for the release and manifestation of the purposes of Heaven on behalf of those who daily contend with the victimization of abuse and slavery.

Uri Harel and the Center for Biblical Hebrew has developed a program entitled, Bible Music Writer. His ministry  has been given a revelation of mathematically converting the letters of the Hebrew alphabet from any Scripture passage to music notation, thus literally releasing the musical frequencies of the spoken Word into the atmosphere. I creatively added the harmonies, rhythms and form to the melody of the converted Hebrew Scripture, transforming the spoken Word into a musical Word. For further information contact: CENTER FOR BIBLICAL HEBREW, MUSIC FROM GOD, PMT 542, 5555 North 7th Street, #134, Phoenix, Arizona 85014, Email: info@c-bh.com, Phone: 602-48-BIBLE, FAX: 602-932-2831.

Not Forgotten
As I have prayed and played spontaneously for all of the fatherless on the Lord’s heart, I hear His Spirit saying, “you have not been forgotten.” In Luke 12:6, Jesus says, “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Psalms 56:8 gives assurance of our Heavenly Father keeping record of all sorrow and collecting every tear in His bottle. Because of the good news of this revelation decreed in His Word, this spontaneous song reflects a light-hearted dance as the Father sings over each of His precious children.

These items are now available at www.theartsexpressed.com website store and on CD Baby! http://cdbaby.com/cd/TammyLSorenson

TO CONTACT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO SCHEDULE:
www.theartsexpressed.com or www.jaranministries.com
jaranministries@izoom.net or 763-262-2607

I first heard this song, “When the Music Fades,” at an Awake America Conference at the Target Center in Minneapolis, MN, as led by Lyndell Cooley, back in the Fall of 1999. Matt Redman, it’s writer, and many others have since made it a familiar worship song to many. As a worshiper, a pianist and vocalist, the song gripped the depths of my heart. I played and sang it over and over for many years. Back then, I actually thought I understood what the lyrics meant. Ten plus years later, I realize how much I had yet to learn about the meaning of these words, and about the true worship Jesus spoke of in John 4:23-24.

Over the course of the past ten+ years, since first hearing the song, I suffered a major car accident and survived, not only the accident, but years of doctoring and dentists. The Lord has moved our family four times. Our biological children have grown from ages 6 and 9, to ages 17 and 20 (we have twin 17-year olds). We traveled to Guatemala and adopted three children in 2002, who have grown from ages 5, 8 & 10, to ages 12, 15 and 17. We spent much of these growing years trying to train up all of our kids for the Lord and His Kingdom purposes, equipping both their natural and spiritual giftings according to His Word and to the leading of Holy Spirit. Our oldest son graduated from high school and technical college with a degree in audio production. He is currently preparing to “leave the nest” and pursue his calling as a professional musician. Within two years, three more will prepare to leave and pursue their callings as professional musicians, graphic designer/artists, photographer, and missions.

As a family, we have ministered at camps and conferences throughout the upper Midwest, and have been involved in worship ministry and/or children’s ministry leadership at four different churches in the midst of our moves. We shared ten Family Destiny Conferences together. We also did a CD project to spontaneously capture our journey as worshipers, musicians, and family. There have been many other significant family, music, and ministry “events;” too many to list for the purposes of this article.

We have tried to be obedient to follow the Lord’s leading in such way that everything we have known and loved, with the exception of our marriage and our children, has come and gone…good friends, homes, church families, jobs, things we loved to do together, music, pets…to name only a few. When we moved to our current location, we were told that faith is spelled R-I-S-K, and that was what we needed to be willing to do, in order to follow the Lord wholeheartedly in His Kingdom purposes for our entire family.

As of July 4, this past summer, 2009, Jaran Family Ministries officially ended: our music and our ministry. It was not at all what I had expected, hoped or dreamed, but we want the Lord’s will, not our own. He was clear that we were to pray over our children, anoint, and release them to do and be all He has purposed and called each of them to. We sold our ministry motor home, exactly when, where, how, and for the exact price the Lord prompted us. Now, at the onset of 2010, we wait on Him to lead and guide us into this next season; particularly for our kids’ individual callings, and His plans and purposes for the arts express’d (see www.TheArtsExpressed.com). I am currently working on a book, entitled, “No More Orphans,” subtitled: “I Am A Good Idea…I Have A Gift Within Me…I Carry Gifts The World Needs.”

I have spent the past twenty years parenting, homeschooling, teaching music, and serving the Lord in children’s/worship/house of prayer/and family ministries. Today I awakened to revisit the lyrics of the song that propelled us through these past ten years up to this juncture in life. I understand the meaning of the words, “When the music fades, and all is stripped away, and I simply come,” with very different eyes than I did ten years ago. I desire more deeply than ever to bring Him something of worth that will bless His heart in 2010, so I simply “come.”

“Lord, let everything in this coming year – in my life, in our marriage, in our family, in the lives of our kids, in this nation, in this generation, and in the Kingdom plans and purposes You desire on Earth as it is in Heaven – be all about You. It’s truly is all about You, Jesus!”

When the Music Fades – Matt Redman
Copyright 1999 Kingsway’s Thankyou Music

When the music fades, and all is stripped away, and I simply come;
Longing just to bring something that’s of worth that will bless Your heart.

I’ll bring you more than a song,
For a song in itself is not what you have required.
You search much deeper within, through the way things appear,
You’re looking into my heart.

I’m coming back to the heart of worship, and its all about You
It’s all about You, Jesus.
I’m sorry, Lord, for the things I’ve made it,
When it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus.

King of endless worth, no one could express how much You deserve,
Though I’m weak and poor, all I have is Yours, every single breath.

I’ll bring You more than a song,
For a song in itself is not what you have required.
You search much deeper within, through the way things appear,
You’re looking into my heart.

I’m coming back to the heart of worship, and it’s all about You,
It’s all about You, Jesus.
I’m sorry, Lord, for the things I’ve made it,
When it’s all about You, it’s all about You, Jesus.

We have been learning to stop striving, controlling, and acting independently of Holy Spirit. We have been learning to let go, and to let Father God through Christ in us take the lead. We have been learning to walk in deep intimacy and relationship, as opposed to religion and “good works.” We have been learning to discern powers and principalities at work in regions/nations, as opposed to being personally offended or frustrated with people. We have been learning to see our own circumstances and all that’s going on in the world around us from Heaven’s perspective and not our own. We have been learning to exchange a life that vacillates between the natural and the spiritual, for a life completely dependent on Holy Spirit in a supernatural way. In that place, we have been learning how to cooperate with Holy Spirit in order to bring His Kingdom to come and His will to be done on Earth as it is in Heaven.

We have been on a journey that others before us have traveled as our examples. What Mary and Joseph must have incurred as they humbly and obediently trusted in God to walk them through the incredible calling He had purposed for their lives! Their unyielding faith and trust in Heavenly Father brought forth the birth of the Savior and Restorer of all mankind: the one and only reason we even celebrate Christmas today!

Our own unyielding faith, humility, trust, perseverance, and obedience will result in the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, who came to Earth first as a humble babe and the Lamb that was slain, being revealed in every sector of society in every nation: government, media, education, arts and entertainment, science and technology, business, church and family. The glory of the resurrected Jesus Christ, through the power of Holy Spirit, has been prophesied to rise and manifest through His Kingdom people.

I believe He has prepared a people even for such a time as this: a people who have said, “Yes, Lord, I will follow, regardless of the cost. I will seek You and I will obey. You are my Savior AND my Lord. My heart’s desire is You, Lord, and I say, ‘yes,’ to the identity Jesus purchased on my behalf as Your son or daughter. I say, ‘yes,’ to You fulfilling and advancing Your Kingdom plans and purposes on Earth in and through me. I say, ‘yes, Lord!’ Let the world experience Your love and compassion through more of Jesus in me…whatever it takes, Lord, I am Yours. I am learning to surrender my heart, my will, my mind, my emotions my circumstances, and my all to You, Lord!”

“Cancer will not defeat me. Financial disaster will not defeat me. My family being broken will not defeat me. Being isolated and alone will not defeat me. Depression will not defeat me. Losing it all will not defeat me. The enemy of my soul will not defeat me. Yes, Lord, I am learning to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the words of my testimony!”

We are most certainly living in difficult times, yet from Heaven’s view, these are amazing and exciting times! ‘Tis the season to let faith arise, and to give Him all the praise, thanksgiving, glory and honor! ‘Tis the season to seek and find Him. I absolutely love to celebrate the miracle of the first Christmas! There is such joy to be experienced in this season if we allow Joy Himself to manifest in our lives and in our families! He truly desires to exchange our sorrow for His joy, and our ashes for His beauty. He delights in turning our mourning into dancing!

I am counting down to Christmas and 2010 with greater anticipation and expectation of His glory being displayed for all the world to see and experience! There may be those who wonder if they’ve been forgotten. ‘Tis the season to focus on His truth: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end.”

I love a word Holy Spirit spoke through a 10-year old boy in December of 2007. For specific details concerning this word please read my article, entitled: A Season of Expectation. Below is a promise awaiting His manifestation:

Word Received in Kingdom Kids – 12/16/07 – Danny (age 10, grade 4)

The 2008 Christmas Gift!
I herd (heard) God say “I am giving you a gift to all that no one haves (has). It is so precious that the glory of it is shining briter (brighter) than the sun! It’s power is felt all over the earth!” I herd (heard) God say agian (again).”What I speack (speak) is important. It’s might is so far beyond yours.” He said agian (again), “This Christmas I am giving you a restorement (restoration?). My perpose (purpose) is berdond (burdened) on your harts (hearts) so now you know what to do! For now all will (be) and are healed. I am soon coming so rase (raise) up mighty warriors to win the battle that has allready bine (been) won by the blood of Christ. We won and now are going to flood your homes with the glory of me!!!!!”

I remember being slightly puzzled at this particular word because the boy had written, “The 2008 Christmas Gift!”, in big letters at the top of the page. I remember wondering if the boy had mistakenly gotten the year wrong, knowing 2008 was just around the corner, or if there was more to be revealed than we could understand at the time. I also remember how we all waited so expectantly for something spiritually significant in Christmas 2007 that didn’t manifest tangibly in this realm. Another Christmas of expecting the manifestation of this word came and went in 2008.

We now find Christmas 2009 rapidly approaching, at the conclusion of a year in which our nation has changed significantly. Many Believers have been in such a place that if the Lord Himself does not break into their circumstances there are no other options…no other hopes…no Plan B’s. Regardless of whether it’s the need for a miracle healing from cancer, a financial miracle, a breakthrough from hope long deferred, etc., we have had yet another year to stand in faith on His promises; to persevere through trials and tribulations; and to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the words of our testimony. We’ve been given yet another year to live and pray in expectation and anticipation of our Heavenly Father breaking into our circumstances, and of the Lord pouring out His Spirit (Christ in us) in greater measure throughout the Earth (the hope of glory). In the midst of it all, I again find myself more stirred, more thankful, more in love with Jesus, more emboldened in the revelation of who He is in me, more excited, and waiting with an ever increasing measure of expectation of what the Lord is about to do this Christmas. I do not know yet understand why the word given through this young boy was dated 2008, but I do know the Lord has a perfect time and season for everything under Heaven. I know He is sovereign and He sees everything from an eternal perspective that we can only see dimly through.

I also know when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord raises up a standard again him (Isaiah 59:19). Throughout this past season, the enemy has come in like a flood against so many of the Lord’s people, and he has certainly come in like a flood against our nation. As we cross over from Thanksgiving, to Christmas and into the New Year, we, His Kingdom kids, will focus our eyes upon Jesus, worship Him, give Him thanks and praise, and watch expectantly in this joyous season for a manifestation of His glory to pour out on His sons and daughters in greater measure. It truly is a season to sing, dance, laugh and create!

I believe there is a 2009 Christmas gift coming that cannot be compared to anything or anyone, or described with any words; one the generations will always remember. It will resound with the glory of the Lord, as on the very night Christ first came to earth – the first Christmas – many years ago. This Christmas gift, however, will surpass the first, because the first time He came as a child; as flesh; as a lamb; to one location on the earth. His life, death and resurrection paid the price (the ultimate and final sacrifice as the Lamb of God), and accomplished the will of our Father to reconcile anyone who believes in their hearts He is their Savior and confesses Him as Lord…anyone who desires Christ to be living in them through the power of the Holy Spirit. I believe a greater measure of Christ in us is about to be poured out ALL OVER THE EARTH (not just in one location) through those who have received the Father’s revelatory love as sons and daughters, having been adopted into His Kingdom as co-heirs in Christ; willing to be the footstool He’s been waiting to rest on (Acts 7:49)…vessels of Heaven’s love and dominion all over the Earth. An abundant harvest is about to be reaped eternally for the Kingdom of Heaven…all for Jesus, who is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords!

As a manifestation of His glory, supernatural and creative anointings and strategies are about to be poured out and carried into all sectors of society through the sons and daughters of the Most High God. All the world will come to understand there is only one God, and there is only one way that reconciles us to Him…through Jesus Christ, His only begotten and beloved Son. There truly is no greater love. It’s always been about love, and His story is the greatest love story ever told. It’s the love of our Heavenly Father and the love of His Son for all mankind, and the amazing gift He was willing to give. Isn’t that what Thanksgiving and Christmas are all about?

When Christ finally returns at His second coming, He will come as a Lion in all His glory (the Lion of the Tribe of Judah). He is about to roar through His Church – through His multi-generational, multi-denominational, multicultural Body of Believers – His sons and daughters – and He will take back all the enemy stole from Him, from His Kingdom and from His people (“we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against the powers and principalities of darkness”). He will take dominion on the Earth (His Kingdom will come and His will will be done on the Earth just as it is in Heaven) through His people who are carriers of His glory and anointing…through the manifestation and revelation of His love…through creative miracles (healing, financial, provision, protection, deliverance, suddenlies, etc.)…through the creative arts and creative strategies in every sector of society…through the Church He is building that the gates of hell cannot prevail against. He will return for a Bride who has made herself ready and prepared herself for her Bridegroom.

To those who have a revelation of our King and His Kingdom: get ready for His 2009 Christmas Gift…get ready for His anointing…His supernatural creative anointing…get ready for a supernatural revelation of His glory to manifest on Earth as it is in Heaven!

Word Received in Kingdom Kids – 12/16/07 – Danny (age 10, grade 4)

The 2008 Christmas Gift!
I herd (heard) God say “I am giving you a gift to all that no one haves (has). It is so precious that the glory of it is shining briter (brighter) than the sun! It’s power is felt all over the earth!” I herd (heard) God say agian (again).”What I speack (speak) is important. It’s might is so far beyond yours.” He said agian (again), “This Christmas I am giving you a restorement (restoration?). My perpose (purpose) is berdond (burdened) on your harts (hearts) so now you know what to do! For now all will (be) and are healed. I am soon coming so rase (raise) up mighty warriors to win the battle that has allready bine (been) won by the blood of Christ. We won and now are going to flood your homes with the glory of me!!!!!”

There is only one answer, regardless of what government, the media, our educational systems, business and economy, the arts and entertainment industry (including sports), family, and yes, even the church, are trying to tell us. The only true answer: Jesus – period. We must keep our eyes and our lives focused on Jesus more intently and more purposefully than ever before, if we truly desire to get to where we need to be in the midst of what’s going on all around us; in the midst of all we are personally having to discern and walk through.

There are multiple “voices” attempting daily to capture our attention and support: every voice is trying to convince, attract, or direct us in whatever path the experts (man) in that position or field have determined to be the “change,” the “right way,” or the “direction we need to go.” This is precisely why our nation has become so polarized throughout the past season. People have been “blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming” (Ephesians 4:14). Jesus is the only way we need to concern ourselves with (John 14:6). The foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and Jesus is the only way to our great need for God’s wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:25). (In spite of certain political agendas, America’s motto remains, “In God we trust.”)

With all of the reports we are hearing daily (i.e. left media news verses right cable news), how do we really know which one is telling us the truth? Jesus is the only truth (John 14:6, 17:3, Ephesians 4:21,1 John 5:6). Unless He lives in us and His Spirit is teaching us, there is no way to discern the real truth in these times we are living in (John 16:13). If we’re not keeping our eyes on Jesus, and are not being led by His Spirit of Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Might, Knowledge and Fear of the Lord, we are at risk of being deceived by those vying for our attention; those who do not really know Him, and those who are being used by the father of all lies (John 8:44, 1 John 2:22). (There are multiple references and warnings in the New Testament pertaining to our vulnerability to lies and deception. The original sin occurred because of deception (Genesis 3). The devil is a master deceiver and he knows how to manipulate man to deceive and be deceived.) The end result of deception is fear and death.

If we are truly honest with ourselves, we are currently experiencing on almost every level and in almost every sector of society, the fruit of a culture with a spirit of death. Even conservative cable news is not able to speak into a culture of life, because they report and expose “what is seen” from a natural perspective (which is of course, negative or fearful, because “rotten” is the fruit of a culture with a spirit of death). The media is not speaking life and hope into the lives of their viewers (speaking or prophesying the unseen according to the truth of Scripture or to the revelation and leading of Holy Spirit). As Christians, we are being called to a new level of carrying the life of Christ – the fruit of a culture of life – to a world around us in need of choosing life. Unless our eyes are focused on Jesus, the only true life, (John 3:16-17, 14:6), we will not be able to think life-giving thoughts, much less speak life-giving words or carry life-producing actions into our families, schools, workplaces, or communities.

Fact: we are accountable for the next generation. They are trusting the adults (parents, teachers, mentors, and leaders) in their lives to equip them in the way they should go. If our eyes are focused on anything or anyone other than Jesus Christ, we will fail them. In this season, we need to cry out to the Lord, who alone empowers us to keep our focus on Him, and who alone is able to guide, protect, and provide for us. We must stay on the path of truth and life. We need to lead our children and youth on this very path of choosing eternal truth and life. We cannot entrust this generation to our government (not executive, legislative nor judicial), to our educational systems (I have such a burden for our children and youth who are being immersed in humanism, but that is for another article), to the media, nor to the arts and entertainment industry. This is first and foremost, the responsibility of the family (mothers AND fathers), and then, for the Church to come alongside the family to encourage, support, equip, and edify.

We, the Church, MUST NOT COMPROMISE the truth of the Word (for the sake of being politically correct or seeker sensitive), nor can we be complacent or indifferent to this challenge. Let us continue to “press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things…Only let us live up to what we have already attained” (Philippians 3:14-16). Let us rise up and answer His call to speak and carry Life and Truth throughout this nation and into this next generation.

I awoke one morning earlier this year to the question posed at the beginning of this article: “How did we get to here?” The following words are the words the Lord sang through me in answer to this question:

I Am
Copyright 2009 Tammy Sorenson/Jaran Family Ministires/the arts express’d

I see every face on every single child
That nobody wanted
The world threw them away
I see every tear on every single face
Of every broken heart needing someone to look their way

I Am the only answer
Don’t believe the lies they say
I Am the only hope
You’re all crying out for this day
How did we get to here?
And how do we get to where we need to be?
Jesus is My name

I see every child, hungry, sick, abused
Crying for someone to take away their pain
I see every child empty and alone
Fearing that no one cares or knows their name

I Am the only answer
Don’t believe the lies they say
I Am the only hope
You’re all crying out for this day
How did we get to here?
And how do we get to where we need to be?
Jesus is My name

I Am the love you’re looking for
I Am peace and so much
I Am your way, your truth, your life
I Am

I am the freedom that you seek
I Am your strength when you are weak
I Am the shelter from this storm
I Am

How did we get to here?
And how do we get to where we need to be?
Jesus is My name

Specifically seek to be informed via websites such as Generals International (Cindy and Mike Jacobs: www.generals.org), Glory of Zion International (Chuck Pierce: www.gloryofzion.org), and the United States Reformation Prayer Network (USRPN National level: www.generals.org/prayer/rpn and state level(s): MN/RPN www.calltothewall.org), to name only a few. An important and Urgent Call to Prayer: Signs of the Times came out today, September 20, on www.elijahlist.com, from Lou Engle (please don’t delay in checking out the details on this alert because it pertains to this week: September 21-25). Prayer and fasting for the 40 Days for Life campaign begins in the midst of this prayer alert as well.

The Body of Christ as a whole can no longer be silent, nor can we delegate prayer to those few devoted and committed prayer warriors in our churches, or to those who attend local houses of prayer. We cannot put off until tomorrow that which the Lord has set before us to do today! We urge you to please get connected and unite as a multi-generational Body of Christ, and truly begin to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). It’s time to get our children and youth involved in prayer on behalf of something bigger than themselves. Many of these current prayer issues will impact them directly. It is time to unite, to rise up and to be the Church that Jesus Christ died and was resurrected for, putting faith into action through the power of the Holy Spirit, through the power of the blood of Christ, and through the power of His Word.

The Scripture verse on our Home Page the day I wrote this article (verses we daily subscribe to rather than select ourselves) was, “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them” Matthew 18:20. It is not a coincidence I was prompted to write this article on the same day Matthew 18:20 was the selected Scripture verse! His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9). We don’t have to understand; only have faith to believe that prayer changes things (James 3:17). It’s time to believe the truth of the Word of God and come together as His Body, the Body of Christ, in unity with each other and with the Father’s heart, to pray (Unity in Christ transcends all cultural, denominational, or generational barriers of any and every kind!). Who knows if you have come to the Kingdom “for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).

Our drummer, guitarist, song writer and audio production specialist, Jaran, will continue to be available periodically, but is plugging in at Substance Church in Fridley/Roseville on a more regular basis, as well as following the Lord’s leading for his own calling. Our bassist, guitarist and songwriter, Jadan, will also continue to be available to The Arts Express’d, but is additionally pursuing his own personal call at the Lord’s leading to plug into Evangelist Crusaders in South Minneapolis, Substance Youth Group Worship Band, and the Kelli Rae band; he is also studying graphic design and developing his artistic giftings.  Our singer, keyboardist and dancer, Jessa, will be involved in both The Arts Express’d and Substance Youth Group Worship Band; she is adding the study of photography to her giftings. Jenna, Jocilyn and Josiah will be a part of The Arts Express’d as well; Jenna pursuing art, intercession, missions and spiritual gifts; Jocilyn pursuing prophetic dance, creative writing and spiritual gifts; and Josiah pursuing the Word, evangelism and spiritual gifts.

Tammy is currently seeking, receiving and writing specific and detailed revelation from the Lord concerning The Arts Expressed. “Who,” “what,” “why,” and “how” have been revealed, while details pertaining to “when” and “where” are still in progress. When all of the specifics have been completely revealed by the Lord, they will be written on The Arts Express’d site, as well as some of the teachings on this site. Tammy will be teaching The Arts Express’d more independently (equipping the equippers), along with prophetic psalming and worship (imparting, calling forth, activating and releasing gifts in those being equipped to equip others). Kevan will continue to be involved in all of the preceding aspects, as revealed and led by the Lord.

Thank you for your patience and for your prayers as we seek Jesus first; His Kingdom and His righteousness. We know that all things will be added unto us (Matthew 6:33) for the glory of His name!

Rock the River (see event promotion below) was an amazing day of worship, testimony, salvation, healing, fellowship, Kingdom family, unity and summer weather fun! It brought much glory to the Lord and MANY were blessed by His presence, His goodness, His mercy, His gifts, and His love! There are specific details available on various websites, including Global Day of Prayer MN site, and Rock the River/Franklin Graham sites. The Lord is so abundantly faithful, and this event was strategic in moving Minnesota and this nation forward in His Kingdom plans and purposes for such a time as this!

Event Promotion
Don’t miss the Rock the River Tour this Sunday, August 16, 2009 from 2:30 P.M. – 9:30 P.M. at Harriet Island Regional Park in St. Paul, MN! Gates open at 1:00 P.M.. Franklin Graham will bless all with a message, there will be seven hours of amazing music with Kirk Franklin, Flyleaf, Superchick, Canton Jones, Decemberadio, Flame and LeCrae, and JSAW will present incredible skateboard performances. Great vendors, great food, great prizes, great summer weather, and great fellowship promise to make this an exciting day for all! Bring your friends, your family, anyone the Lord puts on your heart, and come expecting surprises, celebration, and the Lord to embrace the Twin Cities area with His presence! ]]> http://jaranministries.com/rock-the-river.htm/feed 0