Take the Baton

Last night, I attended the viewing for Bishop Steve Perea's mother, Maria Conception Perea or Concha, as she was lovingly called. I did not have the privilege of knowing her personally, however, as the night moved forward, I wish I had.

The testimonies that were shared were inspirational, encouraging, and challenging. Though my heart grieves for my Pastor, I was greatly blessed. Even in death she has touched my life. This is what I have learned.

• Pray for your family and extended family by name.


• Make every house a home for all.


• Be an encouragement, even when you could use some encouraging

As I pondered on the wonderful memories that were shared, this verse came to mind. Hebrew 12:1 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

Many saints have gone before us and it would be, as my Nana use to say, " a dirty shame", for me not to pick up the mantle and carry on in the fight. This is my prayer to throw off the hindrances and press on, looking at the landmarks of victory of those who have walked this way before.

Concha, thank you for pouring into my life and encouraging me through what you have done for others. Suemmi said it best,"when I grow up I wanna be like her", ...me too.