December 2014
Nick Vujicic GOD AT WORK THROUGH YOUNG LIFE Page 5
THE COSBY TRAGEDY Page 14
Imagine getting through your busy day without hands or feet. Picture your life without the ability to walk, care for your basic needs, or even embrace those you love. Meet Nicholas Vujicic (pronounced VOO-yee-cheech). Without any medical explanation or warning, Nick was born in 1982 in Melbourne, Australia, without arms and legs. Three sonograms failed to reveal complications. And yet, the Vujicic family was destined to cope with both the challenge and blessing of raising a son who refused to allow his physical condition to limit his lifestyle. The early days were difficult. Throughout his childhood, Nick not only dealt with the typical challenges of school and adolescence, but he also struggled with depression and loneliness. Nick constantly
wondered why he was different than all the other kids. He questioned the purpose of life, or if he even had a purpose. According to Nick, the victory over his struggles, as well as his strength and passion for life today, can be credited to his faith in God. His family, friends and the many people he has encountered along the journey have inspired him to carry on, as well. Since his first speaking engagement at age 19, Nick has traveled around the world, sharing his story with millions, sometimes in stadiums filled to capacity, speaking to a range of diverse groups such as students, teachers, young people, business professionals and church congregations CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
FLOPPING & FERGUSON Page 18
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GIFT OF HOPE By April James
JUST THE RIGHT TIME
before Him. Letting the Man of Hope, Jesus, be our hope instructor, for our hope is found in Him alone. Cast off the garments of hopelessness letting hope become the foundation of our life. Hopelessness and despair are giants to be slain. We may feel weak, small and intimidated at the giant Goliath (hopelessness). Let’s take one stone at a time, faith statement stones of “I am valuable and valued”, “I have a purpose”, “I am loveable/I am loved”, “I matter, my life matters”, “My future is full of hope and possibilities”, and throw them one by one at hopelessness. Let’s speak the opposite truth of God’s word to the negative lie the enemy whispers, until it becomes the louder voice. Tell Satan to put a sock in it - that we will no longer listen to and feed on his negativity. “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ, Jesus, has made me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:2 Open the gift of hope, let its light and warmth fill our soul bringing springtime to the winter season of life. Hope can transform every area. Look at life through the lenses of hope; see beyond the gray cloud - to the rainbow
Don’t let the pain of the past steal the hope of tomorrow! Pain is everywhere, it comes in all shapes, sizes and color, although the color is typically a dismal gray to black. It does not discriminate between gender, race or social status, it is all inclusive. It comes by friend and foe alike; whether intentional or unintentional. The pain may feel like a temporary sting or have long lasting crippling effects. Ongoing pain can cause one to lose hope, bringing a sense of hopelessness. Hope…What is it? Webster defines it as, The feeling of wanting something to happen and thinking that it could happen: a feeling that something good will happen… It is an expectation of good. It looks for the positive possibilities in God for what lies ahead. Paraphrasing Deuteronomy 30:19, He has put before us life (hope) and death (hopelessness/despair), blessing and cursing; therefore choose life that you and your descendants may live. Hope is a choice we make, let’s choose to walk and be filled with hope, choosing to lean into Christ’s hope, bringing past pains, hurts, failures and disappointments
CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
By Paula McBride Hogar Para Ninos, Vicente Guerrero, Mexico
It was a first for the mission’s school for disabled children and a first for a nearby Mexican high school. Three teenage girls finished the junior high program and passed entrance exams to qualify for high school. At the same time, personnel at Camalu High School were ready to set precedent and allow the girls to attend their school. The teachers even gave up part of their staff bathroom and allowed mission carpenters to remodel the space to accommodate the girls’ special needs. The last few weeks of school were bittersweet. We were happy for the girls, and very proud of them, but we would miss terribly the sparkle of enthusiasm they brought to our school. Months before the girls finished their studies, God orchestrated events in the United States. A grieving family was left with a brand-new electric scooter equipped with an attachment on the back to carry a walker. What would they do with it? How could it be used? They donated it to our mission! The process of getting a new electric scooter to the mission is complicated, but somehow it got to our truck in San Clemente, California, and got across the
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border. The miracle is that it got to our site the day before school was out for the summer. JUST IN TIME for my sweet student to be its recipient so she could transport herself to and from school! Also, just in time, a second girl was provided with a handmade contraption that turned her wheel chair into a hand cycle. The cycle part detaches and she parks it next to the scooter at school. The third girl is able to walk, so she takes the bus. At just the right time, these precious girls took a giant leap toward personal independence, and God gets the glory for His spectacular provision. Another event in history happened at just the right time. God did not use the word of prophets to speak to the nation of Israel for four hundred years, but He was fine-tuning events that would culminate in the greatest miracle of all. Under Alexander the Great, a common language was born by which the gospel could go out to all people. Even though Rome’s rule was brutal, there was a system of roads and safety of travel that could aid the spread of a message of peace. Most of all the people were ready. God allowed the human condition to sink so low that humanity would crave a relationship with
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Once upon a time, in Yuba City, two best friends tried out for the freshman football team. On the first day of practice, they met their assistant football coach, a man the team called, “Coach Brad” or “The Fun Coach.” Coach Brad (the director of Y-S Young Life) invited the pair to Young Life Club on Monday nights. When they asked him what Young Life Club was, Coach Brad told them, “There will be food, fun, and girls. And at the end we’ll talk about Jesus.” The two friends came to the first Young Life Club of the year, at a little coffee shop a block from their high school campus. They had such a good time that they came back again, and again. At football practice they asked Coach Brad questions like, “Can I believe in evolution and still be a Christian?” That fall they went with Coach Brad on a Work Crew weekend to serve in the Pits (washing dishes) at Young Life’s Woodleaf Camp. That winter they spent a weekend at Young Life’s Mountain Lodge. In the spring, one of them fundraised so that he could go on a mission trip to Mexico and build houses with Coach Brad. On the way home from Mexico he sat behind Coach Brad, and read the book of Mark in the Bible that Coach Brad had given him, asking questions as he went. That Sunday he attended his first church service at St. Andrews Presbyterian. The summer came and went, and soon these two friends were back at Young Life again, this time as Campaigners ( another
Young Life group for youth that want to go deeper). However, instead of coming alone, they brought three friends from school to the Tuesday night Bible study. In mid-September, both accepted Coach Brad’s invitation to attend a concert given by several local Christian bands. At the conclusion of the concert, the speaker shared about Jesus, and then gave an open invitation to the audience. They raised their hands at the invitation to accept Jesus into their hearts, and Coach Brad had the privilege of praying with all three teenage boys as they committed their lives to Christ. This story is a perfect example of the relational incarnational ministry of Young Life. Just as God chose flesh and blood relationships with people by sending his son, Jesus, to live among us, Young Life promotes radical change through deep relationships and life-on-life ministry. Young Life ministry begins with concerned adults who have a heart for lost kids—adults who are willing to pray for, live among, and build relationships with teenagers. Thank you for your prayers and support of Yuba-Sutter Young Life. Thank you for giving us the time and resources to pour into teenagers! If you would like to know more about Yuba Sutter Young Life, you can find us on Facebook, and if you feel lead to invest in our ministry, you can donate at: http://yubasutter.younglife.org/
INSPIRATION Remember Christmas Red reminds of the blood He spilt to wash away and cleanse all of our guilt White is for His actions, most pure. Through sinless perfection, He did endure. Green is for the life eternal we can obtain through our Lord supernal. The star shines like the one so bright that twinkled above that first Christmas night. The fir tree is for many things: the tree of Jesus - the father of kings, and for the needles pointing to the Lord-that little babe we all adored. The wreath shows one eternal round; the begin’ of the Lord cannot be found. The lights remind us that this babe is the light of the world, and born to save. The candy cane is for the crook; not one sheep or lamb the shepherd forsook. The Christmas bells we love to ring proclaim joy! The birth a newborn king. These symbols remind us that we, more like the three wise men all now should be. Earnestly seeking to find the new babe who humbly in a manger laid. - author unknown
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Ongoing Events PRAYER VIGIL FOR LIFE! Yuba-Sutter Right to Life is hosting peaceful, prayerful vigils in front of the Yuba City Planned Parenthood. All you need to participate is one hour and the desire to pray for LIFE. Please contact Heather Pugh at 751-9349 for date and time if you are interested. CROSSROADS CLOTHES CLOSET Crossroads Community Church, YC Shop at our - FREE Clothes given away! Open Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm KNIT & CROCHET WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP First Baptist Church of Olivehurst, 1777 - 8th Ave. Mon 10am - Noon Practice your yarn craft or learn a new one with us. Knifty Knitters are welcome. Bring your own project or work on a charity item that we donate to those in need in the community. Email yarncraftersforchrist@hotmail.com for info. •CHRISTIAN BUSINESS ALLIANCE LUNCHEON Every 1st Tue @ Noon Bonanza Inn, Yuba City Join us for Lunch, Fellowship and God’s Word! For info contact Dave Kugelman 530-632-9292 FREE KARATE CLASSES First Baptist Church of Olivehurst Mon 5:30pm FREE karate classes taught from a Christian perspective. 743-1831 for info, Pastor Miguel. •SAMARITAN VILLAGE MONTHLY MEETING 3rd Tue of each month, 6:30pm This meeting is open to all who are interested in helping with an orphanage in Tanzania. For info call Victor Savage at 671-2219. CELEBRATE RECOVERY Loma Rica Community Church- Moy Hall. Fri., 7pm. Call church office for more information 743-5435 EASTER SEALS STROKE SURVIVOR AND CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP. Meets 1st and 3rd Thursdays every month. Social and informational group to assist in life after stroke. Meetings are held at 1670 Sierra Ave., Yuba City from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Please call George Shaw, Facilitator, at 530-567-5282 if you are interested in participating and for more information.
•PURE DESIRE Embassy of Heaven Campus Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Road, Yuba City Chains are being broken. Marriages are being restored. A teaching series on sexual purity to offer men proven principles and practical tools to conquer pornography and other sexual sins. This 5-week curriculum lays out biblical strategies, scientific facts and teaches men how to use God’s weapons to conquer sexual sins. If interested call Mike @ 300-1132. •PRAYER Every Tues, Wed & Thur, 7:00 PM Embassy of Heaven Campus Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Road, Yuba City 530-671-3160 “My house shall be called a house of prayer.” (Matt. 21:13). The church today in is an all out war against the evils of darkness. The body of Christ is called to step up and be aggressive in their prayer life. •DIVORCE CARE Wednesdays 7:00 - 8:30pm Embassy of Heaven Campus Church of Glad Tidings - Bldg 500 1179 Eager Road, YC (Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd) Info: 530-671-3160 info@churchofgladtidings.com Divorce Care is a divorce recovery support group where you can find help and healing from the hurt of separation or divorce. Weekly meetings provide you with an ongoing “support team” as you deal with the issues surrounding your separation or divorce. You’ll learn how to deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERY F.I.R. Building: 723 D St., Msvl 7-8:30 p.m. Food Addiction: Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free Twelve Step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating, or bulimia. Meetings are held Tuesday at F.I.R. www.foodaddicts.org or call (503)960-5850 •CELEBRATE RECOVERY Praise Chapel Church - Sun. 6:30 p.m. Join us for great worship and open share group. For more info call 530-923-7204
Mark Your Calendars Don’t Sit on the Side Lines...Get involved
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•CRAFTSMEN FOR CHRIST The Bride Church, 655 Colusa Hwy, YC Meets every Tuesday at 6:30pm Men’s fellowship around the word and worship. All in the Body of Christ welcome! •AHOP Ascending House of Prayer Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 6:00 - 9:00 PM Embassy of Heaven Campus Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Road, Yuba City 530-671-3160 Praying and preparing for a new Jesus Movement, raising the Life of the glory of God in the face of Christ in America and in the nations. Come join us and experience the richness of His Love!
•BETHESDA HEALING WELL Saturday, October 18th at 10:00 AM Embassy of Heaven Campus Church of Glad Tidings - Bldg 200 1179 Eager Road, Yuba City Info: Ed Han 209-298-6102 Gathering for a time of soaking in God’s presence and then spending time to receive focused prayer for healing. LIFE @ HOPE POINT Hope Point Nazarene 600 N. George Washington Blvd, YC Wednesday @ 6:30pm for kids, 7pm for adults Join us for Life@Hope Point - groups for Nursery through High School ages and classes for adults - Parenting, How to Study your Bible, more so contact the church office at 671-1130 for more details.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY Crossroads Community Church Mondays 6:30pm-8:30pm We are a Christ-Centered recovery group that provides a safe place to share your struggles, experiences, victories, and hopes with others who are also going through to Christ_Centered recovery. For more info call 530.755.4149. Follow us on Facebook @ Celebrate Recovery Crossroads Community Church
•WOMENS CLOTHES CLOSET Twin Cities Rescue Mission, 940 14th Street, Marysville Mon,Tue,Thu,Fri 8am-Noon We now have a womens clothes closet at the mission! It is free and available to everyone. We accept donations Monday-Sunday of women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing!
•SATURDAY NIGHT SERVICE Word Of Life Church 1229 Buchanan Street, Marysville 6:30pm Contemporary Worship led by Leanne Whitley & Robbie Jellsey Relevant & Anointed Preaching- Pastor Stan Reynolds
Join us from noon to 1pm at the Bonanza Inn the first Tuesday of every month for a time of encouragement, fellowship and prayer with the
•ENCOUNTERING GOD 9:30 - 11:30 AM Every Tuesday Morning Embassy of Heaven Campus 1179 Eager Rd., Yuba City (Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd.) 530-671-3160 www.churchofgladtidings.com Our Tuesday morning meetings begin with a time of worship. Afterwards we rely on the Holy Spirit to lead us to minister to each other, encourage each other, and build our hunger and desire for the things of God. Childcare is provided. AWANA Wed 5:45-7:45pm during school year Evangelical Free Church 3785 Olive Hwy. Oroville For information please call 533-6866 Awana is a boys & girls club consisting of small group time, games, large group time.
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RUMMAGE AND CRAFT FAIR Praise Chapel, 398 Aylor Ave, YC Dec 6th, 8am -2pm Church will be holding a rummage/craft fair. New and used item: jewelry, music & electronics, scarves, and much more. Church Café will be open. For more info please contact 530-3001458 or 530-870-0511. HARVEST FESTIVAL Oroville- Mt. Ida Rd / Naranja Ave Follow signs Dec. 6, 2014, 10am-4pm Harvest Festival is a great community event that gives everyone a chance to have fun at the “Ranch”. You can also sample the product and take some home. With local food producers, the Hope Center food wagon, and many artesian vendors to capture some creative arts handmade. The Harvest
Special Events
Festival is a fun experience for the whole family. - See more at: www.mandarins4you.com
NEW YEARS EVE WATCH SERVICE Praise Chapel, 398 Aylor Ave, YC Dec 6th, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dec 31st, 8 p.m.- 12 a.m. Come join as we celebrate our 25th Watch Service by welcoming the New Year praising the Lord. There will be music, fellowship, food and a pertinent message for the coming 2015 year. For more information please contact 530300-1458 or 530-682-8483.
Celebrate
Jesusthis
Christmas Season
THE JOY STORY 2” Feather River Baptist Church 5400 Chestnut Rd. , Olivehurst, Saturday, 12/13, 2 p.m. matinee, 5 p.m. evening show Sunday 12/14 5:00 p.m. with Refreshments for all after the show Hear a fun and touching story of the most precious gift of all Everyone is invited to come and join us. Please bring your friends. Those who know Christ & those who don’t . Info -530-742-2227 “GASLIGHT & WINDOWS” December 12 – 16, 7pm nightly Embassy of Heaven Campus Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Rd., Yuba City (PLEASE SEE AD BELOW FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION)
“A CHRISTMAS CAROL” YC First United Methodist Church 3101 Colusa Hwy, Yuba City Dec 4 & 5 at 7:00 p.m. Saturday Matinee Dec 6 at 2 p.m. (PLEASE SEE AD BELOW FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION) Ministry Seminar “AUTHORITY TO HEAL” The Father’s House 10720 Live Oak Blvd/Hwy 99, L.O. Friday, February 6th 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 7th 9 – 4 p.m. The Bible speaks about the power of God in Jesus Christ to heal. In this seminar presented by Sierra Ministries you will become equipped in the biblical principles of Healing Ministry. This is a two day event, to register or for more information visit www.sierraministries.org.
Faith Christian Schools, Yuba City First United Methodist Church and The FCS Players proudly present
Charles Dickens’
A CHRISTMAS CAROL! The Gospel According to Ebenezer Scrooge!
A New and Original Musical Production Adapted and Directed by Paul DeMeritt
“A Story of the True Spirit of Christmas for All Ages!” Join Music Directors Lana Dodd and Jeff Poppinga, Associate Director Lindsay Roberts and the FCS Players in their Gala 22nd Anniversary Season for this landmark production featuring: The FCS Players High School Troupe! A Special Children’s Ensemble from Awesome After School Drama and FCS Elementary! Special Guest Performers! Festive Music, Drama, Dance and Song! A Remarkable and Joyous Holiday Experience for All Ages!
December 4 & 5 at 7:00 p.m. Saturday Matinee December 6 at 2 p.m. Yuba City First United Methodist Church 3101 Colusa Hwy, Yuba City
$12.00 General, $10.00 Seniors, Students & Active Duty Military Tickets are on sale at the door and Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm at FCS Players Box Office/FCHS Library, 3105 Colusa Hwy, Yuba City, CA (Box Office Closed Nov. 24-28 for Thanksgiving holiday) For More Information Call (530) 674-5474 or Visit Us on the Web at www.fcsplayers.com
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COMMUNITY Mission to Dominican Republic
Courtney Barlow Born and raised in Yuba City until I moved to San Diego to attend San Diego Christian College in 2008. It was there that the Lord deepened a desire for world missions. I have been blessed with the opportunity to be a full time missionary and will be moving to the Dominican Republic in February, working with an organization called Students International. God has given Students International a really beautiful vision and I’m honored to be a part of it. S.I. has full-time Native and American missionaries that live in Jarabacoa, D.R. and serve those in the community, as well as short term outreach teams from the States that work alongside the full-time staff. I will be living in Jarabacoa while building an Adaptive Physical Education program at the Special Education School. Students International’s Centro Especial Genesis is a school for mentally and physically challenged children and is the only school of its kind in the area. There, thirty children with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and severe learning disabilities are given the opportunity to learn in a loving and accepting environment. So many of these students don’t get proper
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nutrition and as well most need repeated muscular movement. My mission is to teach them about Jesus and help them move their bodies in a more active and fun way. I have been working with Students International for the past 3 summers as a student, intern, and volunteer and now I’m committing to serve at least 2 years. I’m overwhelmed with the opportunity God has given me and so blessed to be able to work full time doing something I’m passionate about. Prayer is so powerful and my hope is for this entire process to be covered in prayer. I ask that you please pray with me in these upcoming months while I am preparing to move, and for my future ministry in the Dominican Republic. My up-front costs are approximately $22,000 (need to raise before Feb. 2015) which includes: travel, missionary training school, language school, setting up housing in the D.R., and transportation. Once in the D.R., my monthly expenses will be around $1,500 which includes: rent, gas, utilities, food, insurance and other living expenses. Monthly support is and will be my biggest need throughout my service! Would you be willing to be a monthly supporter and receive regular updates of my journey? I would love for you to join me in this next step of the life God has given me. Thank you for prayerfully considering being a part of this ministry. The following link is a fast and easy way to donate. https://www.stint.com/donate. This link is also on my blog at www. courtneybarlow.blogspot.com where you can stay updated. Alternatively, you could mail a check (memo: Courtney Barlow) to Students International PO Box 2733 Visalia, CA 93279-2733
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Prayer Calendar for December 2014
2-Dec Cold/Winter Challenges across the nation 3-Dec Marriages, Restoration and Strength 4-Dec For those suffering loneliness during the holiday season 5-Dec Adoptive families & birth moms - Lifetime Adoption (p.3) 6-Dec Local Pastors and their families 7-Dec Orphan children- Samaritan Village (see p. 3) and other orphanages 8-Dec Military, All armed forces & their families. 9-Dec Addicted, Rehab ministries- Feather River Mens Center, Joshua House, Celebrate Recovery 10-Dec Teen Depression, Suicide 11-Dec Children and Children’s Ministries 12-Dec Local schools - Teachers and Students 13-Dec Christian Businesses-Ambassador Sponsors & others. 14-Dec Missionaries -Fruit, Provision 15-Dec Unity in and among local churches 16-Dec Marketplace Ministries-Opportunities to share at work 17-Dec The Ambassador Newspaper-Increased readership and Impact 18-Dec A Woman’s Friend - Unborn children/Pregnant Women 19-Dec Global Persecution-Safety/Courage of Believers 20-Dec Local officials and community leaders 21-Dec Middle East - For the peace of Jerusalem 22-Dec Sex Trafficking - pray for victims and their victimizers 23-Dec Homeless/Poor - Twin Cities Rescue Mission, A Hand Up, Salvation Army 24-Dec Local ministries (see p. 3) 25-Dec CHRISTmas Day! 26-Dec Sick/Afflicted, Healing and Comfort 27-Dec Thanksgiving- Give Thanks to God! 28-Dec Singles, Single Parents, Divorce healing 29-Dec Caregivers of elderly and disabled 30-Dec First Responders-Police, Firefighters, EMT, TIP 31-Dec New Year’s Eve- for safe and responsible celebration
David Holycross Helping families honor the lives of those they love since 1998
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The Fruit of Craftsmen for Christ By Steve Gilliss
point in the way he communicated with men, and people in general –“I started to live more in the moment. I tried not to rescue everyone but instead ask a deeper question. And upon that answer, ask another. All the while, praying for the Holy Spirit to lead”. The result was unmistakably different. Added Ouzts, “people began to open up. To trust. They could sense I cared more about their soul than directing a positive outcome in a given crisis. They were drawn into the Holy presence of a God who was active in all life circumstances: the good, the bad, the ugly. ‘The Question’ has become the launching pad of all CFC bible studies
today. According to the current Director of Ministry Operations, James Steele, “we have very few rules at CFC but one is NOT to rescue another man when sharing. Listen intently. And if you must speak, do so in the form of a question”. Steele has seen a dramatic change in his own life. He has seen breakthroughs relationally with wife Karli, their five sons and with other men. Added James, “I know I need real, authentic, fellowship with other Christseeking men & that this road to Heaven is a life-long journey to be embraced”. Another CFC regular, Steve Sovenski states his gratitude in the change he’s
After all, Jesus wasn’t just the answer – He was the question as well”.
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Last month, I detailed the history of Craftsmen for Christ (CFC) –its inception, it’s re-location to Yuba City and how the ministry has assisted thousands of people in need all over the world. Over 30 chapters of CFC are now in operation across the country. While helping the needs of the orphan, widow & the poor (a direct command from Jesus) remains a central mission of each CFC group, founder Bob Ouzts discovered something missing along the way. According to Ouzts, “we were meeting the physical needs of individuals, families & ministries, but failing to fully minister to their spiritual infirmities. We were holding weekly men’s bible studies, and while there was growth, most men remained ‘stuck’. We were merely scratching the surface regarding the ‘secret sins’ that haunt most men”. Bob adds, “we realized that when a man shared something deep they’d largely kept hidden from the rest of the world, there was a rush to rescue the man –to dispense prayer, advice & scripture”. And while Bob understood the obvious merit to such responses, there was little movement toward a sustained Christ-centered lifestyle. The Question: Bob recalls the turning
seen in himself –“I am getting married in December & now view marriage entirely different. I have a restored relationship with my daughter because I’m learning how to forgive & surrender as Christ did for me”. At his core, Sovenski admits “I have been selfish & self-centered my whole life”. Kirk Funk, who also regularly attends the Tuesday night fellowship, says he is drawn to CFC because of the willing transparency of the men to share hidden sin. Funk adds, “I am now questioning my own motives in given circumstances. Do my actions line up with God’s will? More than ever, I have a desire to see God move in my own life & in the lives of other men”. Bob Ouzts summarizes by drawing on scripture; “Proverbs 28:13 says ‘Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy’…….. It’s unfortunate that in many cases, there is pressure within the church to ‘look good’ and to ‘say the right things’ while their private lives reveal something much different. I (we) are learning to relate in a way that breaks down barriers to Christ.
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CAUGHT serving The Local Community Caught In The Act Of Serving
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Sun. Jan. 18 • 2pm MLK DAY
Mon. Jan. 19 • 2pm Tickets available at the Sleep Train Arena box office, by phone at 800-745-3000 and online at Ticketmaster.com Groups of 10+ Save on Tickets! Call CJ at 800-641-4667 x119 for details.
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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 • NICK VUJICIC
Paul -- D.O.B. 10/10/ 2006 Paul is a twin to brother, Joseph. Both were born near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. Their mother was a member of the Sonja Tribe who are nomadic hunter gatherers. She traveled 45 miles from her tribe to a Convent to deliver, but then she died. The people at the Convent traveled to the Sonja Tribe to bring the babies back to them, but the Tribe’s belief is that caring for children whose mother has passed away following birth is a bad omen, so they refused to accept the twins. Paul and his brother then stayed in the Convent and were baptized at the age of one month. Then they were transferred to Samaritan Village. Paul is a student in class 1 Primary at St. Monica school. When he and his brother are not in school, they enjoy playing. A gift of $60. monthly will provide for Paul’s care at Samaritan Village
Orphanage. A monthly sponsorship for a child is $60., but any amount either one time, monthly or even yearly is greatly appreciated. Our website provides a link to Paypal and donations may be made online via credit card for your convenience, or checks may be mailed to Samaritan Village at the address shown below. You may follow us on Facebook @ Samaritan Village Orphanage, on our website @ http://www. samaritanvillageorphanage.com/ and through our quarterly Newsletter. The all volunteer Board and friends of Samaritan Village meet monthly and you are invited to attend the meetings to learn more about this life saving work. Please call Joan @ 530-755-2588 for information and meeting information. To sign up for our Newsletter, please drop us a note at the address below and include your name, mailing address and email address (if available). As always, we solicit and covet your prayer partnership for these little ones whom God has placed in our care. Samaritan Village Orphanage, Inc. P.O. Box 444 Yuba City, CA 95992 Tax ID#68-0214955 501c 3
of all sizes. Today this dynamic young evangelist has accomplished more than most people achieve in a lifetime. He’s an author, musician, actor, and his hobbies include fishing, painting and swimming. In 2007, Nick made the long journey from Australia to southern California where he is the president of the international non-profit ministry, Life Without Limbs,
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 • GIFT OF HOPE
of promise and possibilities. Become a hope starter, be the spark that ignites life and passion in a dry soul. Plant seeds of hope in the garden of someone’s life, it only takes a moment; one little seed can
the One True God. In his letter to the Galatians that traveled on those Roman roads, Paul wrote, “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full right of sons.” As brothers and sisters in God’s kingdom, we know that Christ’s coming was at
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Give the Gift of Hope!
just right time the first time, and what a glorious relationship we enjoy with Him and each other. But that’s not the end of the story. Christ will come again and take us to be with Him forever. Just as the time was right the first time, so it will be right the second time. Let’s hold fast that guarantee as we enjoy the Reason for the Season. Merry Christmas!
Glory to God in the highest,
AND ON EARTH PEACE, GOOD WILL TOWARD MEn
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which was established in 2005. Nick says, “If God can use a man without arms and legs to be His hands and feet, then He will certainly use any willing heart!” Nick’s latest foray into radio will expand his platform for inviting men and women all around the world to embrace the liberating hope and message of Jesus Christ.
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RESOURCES
“Why Should I Go To A Counselor?” An Interview. What is an LMFT? A licensed marriage and family therapist, a title used by California department of Consumer Affairs for those with a Master’s degree and have passed the state licensing exam. As a Christian counselor, how do you differ from other counselors? Because I am an ordained minister in The Church of The Nazarene, I am able to apply Biblical principles to medical/emotional/mental health issues. Thus, I am able to combine Godly wisdom with psychological education to address problems. What is the most common problem people have? Typically relationship issues caused by feelings of worthlessness. This can be work relationships, family, friends or significant others. Is there a certain group of people who tend to have this problem? Sadly, this problem can be seen in toddlers through senior adults, rich and poor, male and female, Christian and non-Christian alike. Why is worthlessness such a big problem? Primarily because people place their self-worth in things that are fluid, such as their bank accounts, job performance, appearance, weight, approval of parents or friends, etc. How does Christianity impact feelings of worthlessness? It actually depends on the level of commitment to Christianity. Those who truly believe the tenets of the Christian faith have stable self-worth. Those who act like Christians and/or only partially believe will continually have doubts. You claim your counseling is ‘effective’, how so? Primarily because God revealed to me the simplicity of the problem and I have seen countless people find freedom, even those who are deemed incurable by secular psychology. People will say that it’s too simple but eventually agree and find healing.
Why is this so hard to believe? Most people who call themselves Christian would ‘say’ they believe it, but not confidently and joyfully. The messages of evil, whether from family or coworkers or culture at large are so loud and repetitive it drowns out the truth if people are not careful. Also, we do a very poor job in the American Church telling and showing each other the Love of God. How can we change this trend? First, you have to believe the truth for yourself, then tell children every day how special they are to God (and treat them accordingly). The most powerful thing I do is look someone in the eyes and with a smile on my face, speak to them what God would say, “I love you, I created you, you are important to me and unique on purpose, I am always here for you and will never abandon you, I am excited about your life ahead and can’t wait to meet you again!” Why does this work? When people realize their God-given identity has been abused by the outside they can begin to believe the truth about themselves. When we speak truth into each other we bring the power of The Holy Spirit into the situation; and the truth never comes back void (Isaiah 55:11). “The truth shall set you free” – Jesus, The Messiah (John 8:32) Pastor Elaine Briefman, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is the Associate Pastor of the Hallwood Community Church. If you have a question you would like her to answer, she can be reached at PastorElaine@ identityAbuse.com or (530)713-9919.
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So what is the primary message people need to hear? “God gave you a unique identity at birth; you are eternally valuable to Him; evil will tell you lies about your identity; you can choose to believe truth”
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Licensed Marriage and FamilyTherapist Associate Pastor Hallwood Community Church 2825 Highway 20 Marysville, CA, 95901 (530) 713-9919 www.identityAbuse.com PastorElaine@identityAbuse.com
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IN THE NEWS
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Learning From The Bill Cosby Tragedy By Jim Denison Denisonforum.org Bill Cosby has been an American icon for decades. As Dr. Cliff Huxtable, he was star of The Cosby Show and the quintessential American father. He wrote the bestseller Fatherhood and was a spokesman for Jell-O, Coca-Cola, and other venerable American institutions. His comedy act has sold out theaters around the world. How tragically things have changed. A comedian recently called him a “rapist” in a video that has now gone viral; last week a woman wrote an op-ed in the Washington Post claiming that Cosby assaulted her numerous times. The allegations go back to 2005, when a woman claimed that Cosby drugged and sexually assaulted her in his home. He denied the allegations. More than a dozen women (one of them wrote the recent Washington Post article) then said they were prepared to testify to similar stories of assault; the case was settled before going to trial. Responding to the recent furor, Cosby’s lawyer said Sunday he will not dignify “decade-old, discredited” claims of sexual abuse. However, the comedian has cancelled an appearance on the “Late Show with David Letterman” and postponed an engagement with “The Queen Latifah
Show.” Cosby has never admitted to sexual abuse, nor have such charges ever been proved in court. However, he has admitted to an extra-marital affair, paying $100,000 over 20 years to keep it a secret. A recent biography claims there were other affairs as well. Clearly I have no idea whether sexual assault charges against Bill Cosby are true. Nor is it always true with celebrities
that “where there’s smoke, there’s fire”—the financial incentive to make false claims is obvious. But by his own admission Cosby has repeatedly placed himself where he should not have been. Once again, Jesus’ prohibition against lust (Matthew 5:27-30) has been proven valid. God warns us that “desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is full grown brings forth death” (James
1:15). Now Bill Cosby’s private life will always be part of his public story. Consider a similar story. University of Southern California football player Josh Shaw claimed last August that he sprained his ankles while jumping into a pool to save his seven-year-old nephew. He later admitted the truth: he jumped from a balcony where he and his girlfriend had been arguing after someone called the police. Last week a sports broadcaster in Dallas commenting on the story made this observation: “Never lie, because someone out there knows the truth and you’ll have to remember all the dirty details.” That’s good advice. This morning I was struck by Psalm 128: “Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways! You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you” (vs. 1-2). When we fear and reverence God, we will walk in his word and ways. When we do that, we position ourselves to be blessed by his grace. Then he can do with us and for us far more than we can do with and for ourselves. My wife often encouraged our sons to “live a life God can bless.” How you end the race matters far more than how you began it. What do you need to do today to finish well?
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The Ambassador Ministry
would like to thank the following people for their Individual Sponsorship Brad Indelicato Kathy Baum Marty Brown Sandi Juri Warren & Lucy Campbell Sue Kochi John Nicholls Chuck David Carrie Pederson Bob Gilbert Wendell Prine Pamela Givans Jeff Royce Rich & Joan Hackney Jon & Pat Skillman Tom Harris Julie Stamper Marie Hiebert
God Bless Each of You for your support of this ministry and our community
If you would like to experience the peace and transformed life that God can provide through Jesus Christ and you are willing to commit your life to the only one who can truly set you free from your sin, you can pray to the Lord right now and ask Him to forgive you of your sins. Because of what His Son, Jesus, did by dying on the cross, your sins will not be held against you by God anymore. You can experience freedom for the rest of your life on earth and then have a life in Heaven with God for eternity. God’s part of the deal is already done. Your part is to confess your sins, repent (or change your ways) and believe that He is Lord. If your life is out of control, let Him take over control.
If you would be interested in supporting The Ambassador as an Individual Sponsor ($20/month) please contact Seth Halpern at: editor@ambassadornewspaper.com or call 530-933-1385 or visit us online at www.ambassadornewspaper.com
For help, questions, or more information, contact us at The Ambassador or any of the churches listed on page 3.
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IN THE NEWS
PETITION TO CANCEL ‘19 KIDS AND COUNTING’ EXCEEDS 125,000 SIGNATURES Carrie Dedrick | Editor, ChristianHeadlines.com A Change.org petition was launched this week that is pushing to cancel the TLC show “19 Kids and Counting.” According to the creator of the petition, the conservative Christian Duggar family is promoting an anti-gay stance and fearmongering against homosexuals. The petition reads, “End LGBTQ fear mongering by the Duggars. The Duggars have been using their fame to promote discrimination, hate, and fear-mongering against gays and transgendered people. You need to take a stand on the side of justice and cancel their show.” Parents to 19 children, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar recently posted a photo of themselves kissing and encouraged other married couples to do the same. “God designed marriage to be a loving, dynamic relationship between a husband
and wife for a lifetime. God loves marriage and it is supposed to be full of love, joy, fun and romance. We challenge all married couples to take a happily married picture and post it here,” the couple wrote on Facebook. John Becker, who operates the LGBTQ blog The Bilerico Project reportedly posted a photo of he and his husband of nine years kissing. The photo was removed from the Duggars’ Facebook page prompting outrage from supporters of marriage equality. Most recently, another petition has been launched in support of the Duggars and “19 Kids and Counting.” The petition supporting the Duggars had reached nearly 12,000 signatures at time of publication. (Ed. Note: to see and/or sign the petition visit www.lifesitenews.com as of this writing there are more than 178,000 electronic signatures for this petition!)
HERE A BULLY, THERE A BULLY EVERYWHERE A BULLY, BULLY By Jon Skillman Have you noticed the emphasis being placed on bullying lately? Bullying is really nothing new. It’s been around since “The Fall.” Remember the bully of the beach kicking sand in the face of the ninety-eight pound weakling, or the bully of the school pummeling the class nerd. But bullying has evolved…it has gone hitech. Now, the bully can actually be the class nerd tapping away at his keyboard, or a cheerleader attacking her rival on social media. But wait, there’s more! Christians today face a new breed of bullies; the political bully, the ideology bully and the litigation bully. The political bully brings the full weight of their elected office to bear on those who dare to oppose their agenda. They seem to believe that ideology trumps constitutionality. A classic example of a political bully is the mayor of Houston Texas who subpoenaed five local pastors to turn over their sermons and any and all correspondence. She did this to see if the pastors had spoken out against a pending city ordinance (a morally sensitive ordinance). Fortunately, a loud outcry from the Christian community forced the mayor to rescind her order and she has been backpedaling faster than democrats from Obama. But the most heinous bully facing Christians and the Church today is…the litigation bully (think ACLU). These denizens of our legal system rarely have to enter the courtroom. They simply threaten the small and the meek with a lawsuit hoping their victim lacks the will
or the resources to defend themselves. This tactic often works even when the victim is standing on solid constitutional ground. This is especially effective against churches and schools. Case in point: The American Humanist Association’s threatened lawsuits against several small schools to cease and desist in any participation in Operation Christmas Child. This is a program where people voluntarily fill shoeboxes with toys, candy, etc. that are then shipped to children in poverty stricken areas around the World. Well, evidently those benevolent humanists object because Operation Christmas Child is a Christian charity and has that offensive C word in the middle. Well, being an inquisitive mind that wants to know, I googled off to the AHA website to see just what kind of Grinch organization would do such a thing. Their motto pretty much says it all: “Good with out a god.” Aha, if this is good, without a god…I think I’ll stick with the good of God. Jesus says in Mark 10:18, “No one is good—except God alone.” Then, on the AHA “About Us” page I came across this truly sad statement. “No deity will save us…we must save ourselves.” Well good luck with that one! But here’s what I don’t understand about humanists and others of their ilk. You have your worldview and are free to pursue it. Christians have both a worldview and a spiritual-view, and The Good News is for all the people. God does not bully you into accepting it…why must you bully those who do?
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EDITORIAL •••
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FLoppinG and ferguson
Destructiive Reaction to the verdict of the grand jury decision in the Ferguson, Mo., shooting of Michael Brown on Nov. 25, 2014. By Seth Halpern, Editor You probably have a few questions right now. “What in the world is ‘flopping’? or “With all that’s going on in the world right now, why on earth are you talking about ‘flopping’? Both are very good questions that I hope to answer here. First, “flopping” (as used here) is a basketball term used when a player pretends to be fouled but really wasn’t. Sometimes it’s hilarious. Unfortunately, it often works and the player is awarded with the ball or a free throw. In the NBA (remember I’m a big Kings fan, so if you have any free tickets –oh sorry I got distracted!), “flopping” is a violation, so, technically, acting like you are a victim when you’re not can get you a hefty fine. The problem is that although it is a huge part of the game and happens on almost every play, it has very rarely been enforced. It’s become a part of strategy, a part of the game, a part of basketball culture and those really good at pretending get rewarded. Ok, enough about basketball. Do you, like me, see this as a part of our larger culture? People who haven’t been victimized
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claiming to be victims and receiving a reward? It seems like those with the best lawyers or the best “witnesses” (note the quotation) often get what they don’t deserve. From the woman who sued McDonalds for the coffee being too hot (and won!) to the Wendy’s customer who claimed to find a finger in her chili (but lied about it), to people who claim to have been victims of crimes but truth exposed often paints a very different picture. Folks, we are a society of blamers, a culture of victims and I’m sick of it. Let’s take responsibility for what we do and stop blaming others for it. This is what troubles me about Ferguson. A man was killed and an officer’s life and career were ruined. Who’s to blame? That was the Grand Jury’s job to decide. They examined every witness, every piece of evidence, and every question answered. Now they, the prosecutor, and police departments across the nation, are being blamed for the destruction of Ferguson, MO. No! The destruction, looting, burning and mayhem of Ferguson is due to the troublemaking, and disruptive criminals that joined the “mob” and took
part in that destruction. Al Sharpton and other “Civil Rights” activists (and even news reporters) want us to believe that it’s because of their “disappointment and anger” over the decision that caused the rioting. Give me a break! MLK would not have led this rioting. I wasn’t there when Officer Wilson shot Michael Brown and neither were you or most likely any of the people causing this destruction. We know that white police officers shoot black men. They shoot white men and women, as well as Hispanics, Asian and others. That does not make it a crime. They are trained to shoot when there is a viable threat. Usually (but not always) people who don’t pose a viable threat tend to not get shot by the police. There are bad cops with attitude or emotional problems and they need to be punished. But the “victim card” is simply played endlessly in our
Seth Halpern - Editor society. Society may encourage “flopping” and even reward it. But God does not. He says to take responsibility for our actions and to live peacefully. “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you”. Eph 4:31,32 “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.” Prov 12:22
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The Ambassador
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‘Twas The Night We Discovered Christmas By David Kugelman
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the town Not a Christian was speaking they were afraid of a frown; The atheist’s message was presented with zeal In hopes the 9th circuit would grant their appeal; God’s people were silent all snug in their beds While the ACLU spewed lies that poured in our heads; And Mamma cried in her ‘kerchief, as I hid under my cap, I was too weary to fight so I settled in for a nap, When deep in my dream there arose such a clatter, God gave me a vision to see what was the matter. I saw through a window something that flashed, I hoped and I prayed that my hopes were not dashed. Just as there’s excitement of new
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fallen snow, God said pay attention, I have something to show. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a beautiful angel with a message to hear.
‘
And then in a twinkling what I heard wasn’t a spoof, It was heavenly angels proclaiming the truth.
felt small like an elf, It brought such conviction to be aware of myself.
I marveled and looked and was turning around, My heart was in shock, it was Jesus I found.
He looked into my eyes and lifted my head, I experienced His grace and had nothing to dread.
He appeared like lighting so lively and quick, I knew in a moment this wasn’t a trick.
He was dressed all in white from His head to his foot, I felt so ashamed as if covered with soot.
He said you’ve allowed the messengers of shame To mock and malign Christ’s wonderful name. Now Marilyn Manson, Newdow, and others, Ted Turner and Stern I wouldn’t want as my brothers.
He said do not worry on what you may lack, I am your Savior, I’ll cover your back.
He spoke these words with no sign of a smirk, There’s a message to share, waste no time get to work.
They have lied and they’ve cursed and caused many to fall, Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!
And out of His mouth there was wisdom to know, His countenance was perfect it was even aglow.
I felt such conviction, I wanted to cry. But I knew in my heart, not to quit but to try. While still in my dream, I had something to do, I wanted to scream, I wanted to sue.
His eyes—how they twinkled! His voice was so merry! His love for me unending, like a wide open prarie.
He had some sort of message held tight in His teeth, It was the story of Christmas displayed like a wreath. To be next to Jesus I
Christmas is coming, acknowledge my birth, I came as your Savior to restore your good worth. Proclaim me to others, let your voices be heard, Don’t let the profaners destroy my good Word. And when he was finished, he took off like a missile, I jumped to my feet as if stung with a thistle. But I heard Jesus exclaim as he left me that night, Merry Christmas to all, go and share this delight.