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Mandisa writes a lot on her Myspace. She's preachy and long-winded. Her latest blog is about Sanjaya. She's repentant for thinking bad thoughts about him and pledges to pray for him every day this week.

An example of Mandisa's writing:

blog.myspace.com/index.cf...03c80c8480

Quote:

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For everyone else who knows that Sanjaya's universe has been cut short I couldn't resist breaking my usual blogging schedule because I am overcome with so many emotions. The results show just ended and I feel elated, convicted, hopeful, and saddened. When it got down to Lakisha and Sanjaya I was so fearful that Lakisha's "less than desirable" Country performance would result in her doom. Then it happened. Ryan announced that Sanjaya was going home and the crowd erupted in a thunderous applause. I was tempted to join in with them until my eyes turned to a little 17 year old boy with tears in his eyes. Then in what seemed like an instant my thoughts went to how he must be feeling in that moment. Here he was in the middle of what I know feels like an indescribable disappointment. I can only imagine that after all he had been through there were also feelings of mixed relief as well. As Ryan guided our attention to a clip of Sanjaya's journey, the latest victim of lackluster votes stood embraced with Lakisha. I wondered what was being communicated in that embrace that reminded me of a mother embracing her child. Was she saying "You will be ok"? Maybe "Take a deep breath, it is finally over"? Or possibly (and probably) just the simple, yet meaningful phrase "I love you". As we strolled down memory lane with what will probably be the most memorable contestant in Idol history, tears began to make the long journey down his young face. It was then that I felt an immediate sense of conviction. Ever since my time on Idol I have spoken freely about not turning reality tv contestants into characters. I explained that we were real people with real feelings, not just characters carefully planned out to entertain audiences. I even went into season 6 of Idol feeling this way. I tried to be very careful not to speak negatively about anyone that I did not know personally. I tried not to judge or interpret the meaning behind any actions. But somewhere along the line I fell into the trap dug by the media frenzy that surrounded Sanjaya. I tried not to defame him publicly in this or any other writings that I did. But I have to confess that I did not hold to that same standard in my private conversations with family, friends, or even fans. I am guilty of doing exactly what I asked others not to. And for that I am truly sorry and repentant.

Beginning tonight we will hear jokes about Sanjaya on late night shows, morning shows, radio shows, etc. We will see his sweet face and hear his timid voice answering a swarm of questions about his journey over the last few months. Some will inquire, some will encourage, some will laugh. I want to encourage each of you reading these words to join me in holding to a higher standard.

Let me tell you a bit about what Sanjaya will face this week. Right now he is preparing for an interview with "American Idol Extra". After that he will attend what is affectionately called "The Kiss Off Dinner" with his fellow contestants. I am confident that they will build him up before sending him out. Tomorrow morning, beginning at 4 AM, Sanjaya will begin a media blitz. He will endure countless interviews with radio, television, newspaper, and magazines. He will not get home until next week. For me, this was one of the darkest times of my life. I had countless questions and no answers. I shut out the Lord and everyone else who loved me. As a result I plunged into a deep depression that lasted for a long time.

I am pledging to pray for Sanjaya every day this week. Will you join me? Every time you hear someone speak of him, whether it is how glad they are that he is gone or how sad they are to see him go, will you allow this to spark you to intercede on his behalf? Pray specifically for clarity and understanding (pray Psalm 119:169 for him). Ask God to give him peace through the storm (Mark 4:39). Ask for the protection of the armor of the Lord (Eph 6). Pray for wisdom beyond his short 17 years (like Solomon in 1 Kings 4:29). Pray that he would get his value and identity from what God says about him rather than man (Prov 29:25).

I know that for several of you, praying may not be something that you do on a regular basis. It is ok. It is as simple as talking to a friend. You can speak out loud or even in your mind. God is everywhere. He loves you and hears you when you call on Him. I can guarantee you, He is listening. You don't have to sound polished. He just wants you to talk to Him. Give it try. You can start with this, and take it from there..."Not really sure where to begin here God. I just want to pray for Sanjaya. So for him, I ask for...................

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