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I am Marben Bland, Pastor of the Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Athens, Georgia, with a Living The Word moment.

Jonathan, son of King Saul, demonstrated the ultimate sacrifice through loyalty and faith — not to his father’s throne, but to his friend David. His devotion was rooted in righteousness, choosing God’s purpose over personal gain.

Rodney Maxwell Davis, a Marine from Macon, Georgia, also embodied that same spirit of sacrifice. Raised in the deep Jim Crow South, he laid down his life during the Vietnam War, throwing himself onto a grenade to save his fellow Marines — without regard to their race or background.

On this Veterans Day, we honor all who wear the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Every day, in places near and far, they represent the very best of our nation — men and women willing to give the ultimate sacrifice, just like Jonathan and Rodney, out of love, faith, and courage.

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Prayer isn’t just words; it’s a living conversation with God. In this message, The Reverend Marben Bland reminded us that The Lord’s Prayer is more than a ritual; it’s our foundation for every kind of prayer petition, lament, confession, praise, and intercession.

When we pray earnestly, God listens. Whether we’re asking for daily bread, seeking forgiveness, or standing in the gap for others, prayer transforms our hearts and strengthens our faith.

Learn the prayer. Live the prayer. Teach the next generation to pray.

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In this powerful message from Philippians 1:21, Rev. Marben Bland reminds us that death isn’t the end for believers — it’s the doorway to eternal life.
Drawing from childhood memories, Paul’s letters, and today’s real-world challenges, the sermon reveals how faith in the resurrection leads us to live out God’s grace with purpose and compassion.

We are called to believe, repent, and live out our faith, reflecting Christ’s love through action — caring for the poor, the hungry, and the sick.
Death is not defeat; it’s the start of our forever home with the Lord.

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In this heartfelt sermon celebrating the life of Mamie “Julia” Stephens, Rev. Marben Bland reminds listeners that Julia’s life was a living testimony of care for bodies, families, and souls. Drawing on 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 and Isaiah 9:6, he shows how Sister Julia embodied compassion in her work as a caregiver, her devotion as a mother of four sons, and her quiet strength within the Greater Bethel AME Church family.

Rev. Bland paints a portrait of a woman who served others with love, discipline, and joy — a woman who knew the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace personally. As her earthly body rests, her spirit rejoices in a new heavenly body with the Lord.

The message closes with an invitation — just as Sister Julia cared for others, she would want each of us to care for our souls. “If you died today,” Rev. Bland asks, “would you be with the Lord?” Through prayer and faith, listeners are invited to find the same peace and eternal home that Sister Julia now enjoys.

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In 1973, while aiming to surpass Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record, Hank Aaron signed a historic endorsement deal with Magnavox, a leading American electronics company known for manufacturing televisions and home entertainment systems. During a time when major consumer brands seldom chose Black athletes as national spokespeople, Aaron’s character and excellence made him a trusted figure for mainstream America. His contract became a cultural milestone, paving the way for future generations of Black athletes to venture into business, branding, and influence. Jesus in Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” When we walk in integrity, God can use our platforms and positions to break barriers and open doors for ourselves and others.

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The final command of Jesus is made in Matthew 28:19, and it could not have been clearer: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” These were not just parting words—they were marching orders for every believer. Yet today, distractions pull our attention in a thousand directions. We fill our schedules with activity, but often neglect our true assignment: teaching, baptizing, and guiding others to follow Christ. The Great Commission is not just about church membership but about transformation—walking with people until they grow into mature disciples. The challenge before us is to refocus, reclaim our purpose, and resist the pattern of distraction. When we realign our hearts with Jesus’s mission, we become active participants in God’s redeeming work, advancing His Kingdom one disciple at a time.

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I am Marben Bland, Pastor of the Greater Bethel AME Church In Athens, Georgia, with a Living The Word Moment.

When God called Moses from the burning bush in Exodus 3, Moses didn’t have the best résumé. He doubted his speaking skills, questioned his worth, and even considered refusing the mission. But what mattered most wasn’t his ability — it was his availability. God assured Moses, “I will be with you.” Through his willingness to show up, Moses became the leader who brought Israel out of Egypt.

God often works through those who simply say, “Here I am.” Your availability allows God’s power to work through your life, no matter your skill level. Don’t underestimate what God can do with a willing heart. The best ability is to be ready when He calls.

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