April 2014
June 2012
How Should Christians Respond to “Noah” - the Movie? By Trevin Wax The Gospel Coalition
W
hen I first heard that a movie based on the biblical story of Noah was being made, I figured it would be some low-budget film along the lines of the television travesties we’ve seen about the Great Flood. The trailer reveals that much more time and money has gone into this film than I would have expected. Whenever Hollywood takes a biblical story as its basis for a movie, evangelicals tend to respond in one of two ways. 1. THE CRITICS First, there is the group that is primarily concerned with biblical accuracy. Taking any sort of dramatic license is akin to tampering with the text, which can lead to the solidification of errors in the minds
of the viewers. This group gets on blogs or comment streams and points out all the flaws and errors in the director’s vision for the film. • If it’s The Nativity Story, they point out that we don’t know the wise men were kings, or that there were three of them. • If it’s The Prince of Egypt, they point out that it was Pharaoh’s daughter, not his wife, who discovered Moses in the river. • If it’s The Ten Commandments, they remind us there is no biblical record of an Egyptian princess saying “Moossseeeess, Mooosseeeess!” so many times. • If it’s the History Channel’s
Bible series, they point out the Bible does not attribute ninja moves to the angels who helped Lot flee Sodom. You get the gist. This group wants biblical accuracy, and all movies are judged based on their ability to get the details right. 2. THE CELEBRATORS Second, there is the group that is flattered to see Hollywood pay any attention to the Bible at all. No matter what Hollywood does with the sacred stories, it’s “getting the word out,” or “making the Bible seem cool.” This group hosts preview screenings as a witnessing tool for the Lord (and a marketing tool for the
Cont. on p.21
Caught Serving p. 8
(New) Counselor’s Corner p. 10
In The News p. 15
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THE AMBASSADOR The Ambassador is a free, monthly publication promoting unity and revival among the local Yuba-Sutter area Bible-believing churches. The Ambassador has a circulation of 6,000 - 7,500 and is distributed in local churches and businesses in the community. The purpose of The Ambassador is to pursue the great commission of Christ by making disciples and to encourage, inform, challenge and connect the local body of Christ. We believe in the inspiration and authority of the Bible as the written word of God. We believe that God exists as One, in three distinct persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We believe that the atoning work of Christ (His death) on the cross and His resurrection is the ONLY means of salvation and the only way to Eternal Life in Heaven. We welcome editorial content from anyone wishing to promote the mission of The Ambassador. All articles and advertisement content is subject to the approval of the editor. Views expressed in The Ambassador do not necessarily reflect those of our sponsors or advertisers
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I Am
Are You A Blessing or Blessed? There are upsides to a downward turn of events, those unexpected circumstances in life you never want to experience. But what an opportunity the Lord has to love you through other people, and teach a lesson or reveal something in the process. You frequently hear it’s more blessed to give than receive. It is also easier to give than receive if you are selfreliant, prideful or lack humility. I am by no means saying anyone has these issues if they decline assistance; just potential reasons. There are legitimate reasons to decline, just be aware of the motives. If your toes, like mine, are feeling a little stepped on, perhaps a heart to heart is needed with the Lord. If everyone gave and no one received, then who would the giver give to, and how would they be blessed by giving if they could not give? There is nothing wrong in humbly receiving; it is not that you expect, demand or think it is owed. If we refuse a blessing, could we be robbing someone of a blessing? Are we perhaps not allowing God to show us His love, care and provision because He sent it through human messengers? Having recently experienced the other side of the coin, going from blessing others to being on the receiving end; I had a choice to make, accept or decline. Did I pass with flying colors, humbling accepting? Well…not 100%. The meal part was easy, after all I like food; but two saintly ladies showed up with meals, they also asked what they could to help and offered housecleaning. Now comes the failure part, the initial offer was easy to decline; knowing they were coming I had managed a little vacuuming. There was no sense of pride until…until they offered again specifically mentioning cleaning the shower. Why did they have to say “shower”, these two had not even been
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in my bathroom, how could they know I had just noticed a couple of spots on the wall? It was not much but it bugged me, and I had even called an individual who did housecleaning; however they were unavailable. So why was I now declining these two heaven sent volunteers offer to clean “the shower”? Yup, you guessed it, Pride! So did I potentially rob my friends of a blessing, reject the Lord meeting a practical need via human assistance? Not to mention I still have a dirty shower! Later I swallowed my pride, called and confessed, which didn’t feel good to the flesh either, but we enjoyed a good laugh. So what is the lesson? The Lord used my circumstances to reveal something on the inside. Not that I want a next time, but if there is, perhaps I will pass. But alas, the story didn’t end here… The next day another saint visits and wouldn’t you know it, she asks if she can scrub my floors, and yes there were a couple of spots on them too. Laughingly I relate yesterday’s shower story, being a quick witted smart-aleck, she offers to clean my shower. I do decline but not from pride this time. However, the next visitor asking about cleaning my shower, I am just going to hand them the supplies.
People ask if I speak Spanish. After being at the orphanage fourteen months, I should be better than I am which isn’t very good. Many of my students are non-verbal, so they respond to my “Spanglish” pretty well. In the meantime, I consider myself a Spanish language learner. A particular pair of verbs gives me fits, because they both mean “to be” in English. We use the words am, is, was, and so forth. In Spanish, one form is for permanent or more lasting situations, and the other has more to do with location or temporary situations. So if I use the form incorrectly, I may be saying I am sometimes Paula, or that I am permanently tired. Fortunately, my Spanish-speaking friends are very gracious and kindly correct my frequent mistakes. When Jesus walked the earth, he was never confused about his state of being. He knew who he was and is. That’s why he was able to remain silent during his trial until he was directly asked, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” “I am,” Jesus replied, resulting in the sacrifice of his life for our sins. This is the last recorded “I Am” statement of Jesus until the book of Revelation when Jesus triumphantly shouts, “I am the Living One; I was dead, and now
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look, I am alive for ever and ever!” (Revelation 1:18). Jesus is permanently and unchangingly our Lord and Savior, and he is the Son of God who is from the beginning. I am both fascinated and blessed by the I Am statements that occur in scripture. The consistent thread they weave validates the authenticity of our sacred writings. Did you know that they appear in multiples of seven? According to Dr. Henry Morris, founder of the Institute in Creation Research, there are seven I Am’s in the book of Genesis and twenty-one in Exodus. The Psalms contain seven I Am’s that tell prophetically of the future sufferings of the incarnate Christ. The second part of Isaiah has 35, Ezekiel has 70, and Jeremiah, 21. The smaller books of prophecy contain 21 “I Am” statements. That’s a total of 154 (22x7) that end with Malachi 3:6, “I am the Lord. I change not.” As we remember Jesus’ passion this month, we don’t understand how or why the Jews misunderstood him. He told them, as recorded in the book of John, that he is bread, light, a door, the good shepherd, and the true vine. Each of those allude to an Old Testament “I Am” statement they should have recognized. Most importantly, he told them and us: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (14:6) and “I am the resurrection and the life” (11:25). There’s no confusion for me that Jesus is always who he says he is. He rose from the dead as he said he would. He ascended to heaven as he said he would. Now we wait for his coming again because he said he would. The great I Am is my Lord and Savior. He’s alive and I’m forgiven! Happy Easter!
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If you are like me, I’m sure you’ve discovered that it is nearly impossible to pray with desperation without desperate circumstances. I wish this weren’t true but I believe it is for all committed followers of Jesus Christ. Maybe things are somewhat stable in your life but that isn’t the case for the rest of the world. We need God’s help. Recent headlines confirm this: • Malaysian plane crash • Washington mud slide • Crisis in Ukraine • Nuclear threat from Iran Also, ongoing concerns regarding: • • • •
Increase in pain killer addictions as well as other addictions Sex trafficking Random shootings Continual breakdown of the family
I remember speaking with a man recently who was experiencing a variety of personal problems. Whatever crisis he presented, I mentioned that God was the only solution. His immediate response was, “you have the same answer for everything.” God! My reply, “Yep!” With that stated, I encourage each of you to designate a specific time of prayer each and every day AND consider joining me for the CBA and Ambassador sponsored National Day of Prayer Breakfast. Details are included in this edition. This world needs Jesus. Our community needs Jesus. For more information, contact me at 632-9292. David Kugelman is the president of the Christian Business Alliance which meets each Tuesday at noon at various locations. Dave welcomes your questions or comments on this article at drkug@comcast.net
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CALENDAR ONGOING EVENTS 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. CELEBRATE RECOVERY Loma Rica Community Church - Moy Hall. Fri., 7pm. Call church office for more information 743-5435. CROSSROADS CLOTHES CLOSET Crossroads Community Church, YC Shop at our - FREE Clothes given away! Open Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm AWANA Wed’s, 5:45-7:45 PM during the school year Evangelical Free Church 3785 Olive Hwy., Oroville For information please call 533-6866 Awana is a boys and girls club consisting of small group time, games, large group time. 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. 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. SAMARITAN VILLAGE MONTHLY MEETING Call 329-6619 for location 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 Tara at 329-6619 DIVORCE CARE Wednesdays 7:00 - 8:30pm Hosted at: The Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Road, YC Info:530-671-6069 www.YubaSutterMarriage.com A Divorce Care group is a special place of encouragement, information and sharing. Weekly meetings provide you with an ongoing “support
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team” as you deal with the issues surrounding your separation or divorce
nations across the globe. Everyone is welcome to participate.
Men’s fellowship around the word and worship. All in the Body of Christ welcome!
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
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
SPECIAL EVENTS
CELEBRATE RECOVERY Crossroads Community Church Mondays at 6:30pm 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 a Christ-Centered recovery. For more information contact Scott McCoy at 530776-7602 or Follow us on Facebook @Celebrate Recovery Crossroads Community Church GUITAR LESSONS Twin Cities Rescue Mission 940 14th St Marysville, CA 95901 Mondays at 4:45pm-6:15pm We are offering free guitar lessons led by Cliff Martin. Beginning and experienced guitar players of all ages are welcome. We practice chords as well as learn some Christian worship songs. All you need is a guitar! We hope to see you there. BIBLE COLLEGE Twin Cities Rescue Mission, in dining room 940 14th street, Marysville Tuesday and Thursdays at 8:30am-12:30pm We will be starting up our free Bible College again! Ephesians and James taught by Charlie Woods, 1st and 2nd Corinthians by Frank Weger, Gospel of John by Nancy Deeds, and 2nd Samuel by Roger Vaca. ACE OVERCOMERS Twin Cities Rescue Mission in dining room. 940 14th Street, Marysville Mondays, starting January 6th at 10am-11am This class will be taught by Joe Grinnell. The purpose is to overcome emotional, physical, and spiritual effects of abuse and dysfunction through biblical principles. Learning skills to help evaluate our strengths and vulnerabilities. Being able to control our emotions and have self-worth that no one can take away. Being able to trust God and rest in His promises. AHOP (ASCENDING HOUSE OF PRAYER) Tues, Wed and Thurs - 6PM Nightly Bldg 200 Embassy of Heaven Campus 1179 Eager Rd., Yuba City (Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd.) 530-671-3160 www.churchofgladtidings.com We are a place of Ascending and Contending prayer for the release of an inception of another Jesus Movement in California, a Righteousness Movement for awakening in America and another wave of prayer and missions to transform cities and
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. WOMENS CLOTHES CLOSET Twin Cities Rescue Mission, 940 14th Street, Marysville Tuesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10am4pm 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! BETHESDA HEALING WELL Third Saturday of each month 10AM - Bldg 200 Embassy of Heaven Campus 1179 Eager Rd., Yuba City (Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd.) 530-671-3160 www.churchofgladtidings.com Gathering for a time of soaking in God’s presence and then spending time to receive focused prayer for healing. CRAFTSMEN FOR CHRIST (NEW) The Bride Church, 655 Colusa Hwy, YC Meets every Tuesday at 6:30pm
“CAMO & AMMO” FAITH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL ANNUAL AUCTION /DINNER Hope Point Nazarene Church Friday, April 4, 2014- beginning at 5:30 p.m. This reservation-only event includes dinner, live and silent auctions, several drawings, live music and a lot of fun! Proceeds benefit the FCS Scholarship fund for families in need of tuition assistance. For more information call (530) 674-5474. FAITH CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL COSTA VIDA FUNDRAISER Costa Vida in Yuba City Tuesday, April 8th all day and evening (lunch & dinner) Tell them at the register that you are there for the Faith Christian High School Fundraiser and they will donate a portion of your “tab” to our senior class for their Grad Trip. SPECIAL SPEAKER “LYNN HILES” Sutter Community Church, 2900 Acacia Avenue, Sutter, CA. 95982 Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at 7:00 PM Sutter Community Church Presents “Dr. Lynn Hiles” Renowned speaker, author and weekly television host of “That you might have Life” appearing at 2900 Acacia Avenue, Sutter, California. STROKE SCREENING IS COMING TO YUBA CITY Grace Baptist Church 1980 S. Walton Ave. YC Wednesday, April 16, 2014 Early Detection is Key to Prevention! Preventive health screenings can detect your risk for serious disease. Call Life Line Screening at 1-888-653-6450 to preregister or for more information. MAUNDY THURSDAY First United Methodist Church, 3101 Colusa Highway, Yuba City, CA 95993 Thursday April 17th, 5:30pm Join us as we experience the last meal Jesus had with his disciples. We will have an abbreviated
If your church or ministry is having an outreach activity that you would like to promote in our calendar, please send your item via email to editor@ambassadornewspaper.com by the 15th of the month for a listing in the following month’s issue.
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Free to the community; Register for a door prize! Children’s Easter Egg Hunt, Puppet Show & Party Presented by: F.R.B.C. & the B.U.G.S. Group For children ages: 2yrs - 12yrs old. Egg hunt, face panting, Jump house, snow cones, candy, cookies decorating, food, drinks, and a Puppet show. For more information call the office at: 530-7422227
Passover meal as its symbols and signs of Jesus being the Messiah are explained. The evening will end with experiencing the betrayal and arrest of Jesus in the garden. THE WAY OF SUFFERING JESUS Good Friday, April 18th, 9:30am Join believers from many churches as we carry the cross. We will begin at the Town Center Fountain in YC. Everyone is encouraged to come and participate as we join as one body reflecting on what Jesus suffered for all. It will also be a time of quiet prayer and worship. For info, call 530-6737709 GOOD FRIDAY SERVICES First United Methodist Church, 3101 Colusa Highway, Yuba City, CA 95993 Friday April 18th, 12:15pm During this service you will be surrounded by the sounds the last hours of the life of the historical and spiritual figure, Jesus of Nazareth. This service will give each participant a deeper appreciation of the sacrifice Jesus made before Easter.
FCS PLAYERS PRESENT “CHARLIE’S AUNT” First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall April 30 – May 3 / 7:30 p.m. and a special matinee and British High Tea on Saturday, May 3rd at 2:00 p.m. Open to the public. Tickets: $12 General and $10 Seniors, Students, & Active Duty Military and are available at the door or from the FCHS Library “Box Office” M-F 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call (530) 6745474 for more information.
Faith Christian Schools and The Award-Winning FCS Players
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WOMEN OF PURPOSE Fri. April 18th, 6pm 460 Woodbridge Ave, YC Everyone is welcome, any denomination. What is W.O.P. all about? It is the gathering of women with the same goal and purpose: To bring us into unity (Jer 29:11; Is.61:1-4). For more info, contact Letty Wilson- 632-6907
“Like Never Before” Together we can help reach millions of Bibleless people with Scriptures
April 30, May 1, 2 & 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday Matinee - May 3 at 2:00 p.m. First United Methodist Church of Yuba City 3101 Colusa Hwy, Yuba City
FREE EASTER EGG HUNT Shepherd of the Valley Church, 1302 Hooper Rd, Yuba City Saturday April 19th at 10:00 am Free community Easter egg hunt for kids 0-14, Over 4000 eggs with many prizes for each age group. Lots of parking available. Please call Dirk for further information at 530-788-8043
$12.00 General, $10.00 Students, Seniors & Active Duty Military Tickets on Sale from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Monday – Friday FCS Players Box Office/FCHS Library 3105 Colusa Hwy, Yuba City
CHILDREN’S EASTER EGG HUNT, PUPPET SHOW & PARTY Feather River Baptist Church Saturday, April 19th from 11:30a.m. - 1:30p.m.
For More Information Call (530) 674-5474 or Visit www.fcsplayers.com
Friday, April 25, 2014 – 7 p.m.
Special Speaker: Jack Popjes Wycliffe Canada Bible Translator (Brazil) Call for your complimentary ticket from Dennis or Dorothy Hurt. 534 -7169 Email dendothurt@sbcglobal.net.
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CAUGHT SERVING
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CAUGHT SERVING LEFT: Mobile Meals Ministry preparing to bless many people
RIGHT: Serving w/ Mobile Meals Ministry feeding & praying.
RIGHT: Raising awareness and funds to fight human trafficking locally by participating in the Restoration Railroad Fashion Show Fundraiser on Friday, March 7
LEFT: “Audience votes for Best Dressed and Most Outrageously Dressed
Photo: Hayes Noble Photo: Hayes Noble
LEFT: Linda Vaca and Kings Clay at Twin Cities Rescue Ministries Banquet
Photo: Lisa Ringelberg
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RIGHT: Joe Grinnell Shares his passion for God’s Word and the work of Twin Cities Rescue Mission
Photo: Lisa Ringelberg
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RESOURCES Tools
Facing Adversity and Being in God’s Will By Ron Edmondson Ronedmondson.com Saul told his son Jonathan and all the attendants to kill David. 1 Samuel 19:1 David was minding his own business one day, tending sheep, when God called him to be a king. Talk about a God moment. He didn’t ask to be king, but God said he was the one. He turned out to be a great king. Imagine that? God made a good pick! David had a heart modeled after God’s, according to the Bible. So, since God had chosen to bless David in such a way, why do we later find Saul trying to kill David? In fact, for some time Saul chased David. David hid out, all alone, which is the setting we find him in during the writings of many of the Psalms. David was God’s choice for king and yet he was placed in incredible adversity. What does this tell us? I think it says to me that sometimes God’s will for us will find us in the middle of trials in life. That’s right. His will for our lives. More importantly, I am learning that I cannot determine whether I am in God’s will based on whether or not my life is peaceful. Just because I have trials in my life, doesn’t mean I am not in the center of God’s will for my life. I love how Alistair Begg once said it. “We should not seek to confirm
God’s will by the absence of adversity.” Think about Biblical characters who faced great trials. Abraham who faced the trial of leaving his homeland, then the years of infertility. Moses wandered in the wilderness forty years. Joseph was sold into slavery. Ruth lost her husband. Nehemiah had to fight off naysayers. Daniel was thrown into a lion’s den. John the Baptist was beheaded. Paul wrote some of his best work in prison. All of these great servants of God faced persecution, heartache, and trials beyond most of our imaginations. Yet, all them, during the adversity, were right where God wanted them to be, in the center of His will. Yes, we would all like life to be peaceful. It is true that we can have inner peace and joy even in the middle of the storms of life. But God has not promised us a life free of problems. In fact, we can be perfectly within His will and still be facing adversity. It is often through the process of life’s difficulties that God makes us more like Jesus., teaches us more about Him and ourselves. Our character is defined in Adversity. Trust Him today, regardless of your circumstances! He is always working a plan!
By Linda Maldonado My mother and her younger sister used to love to play double solitaire. I remember when my aunt would come for a visit, after I went to bed, my mom and aunt talking and laughing in the dining room as they played the game. Sometimes I would go get a drink of water, just so I could watch them for a couple of minutes. They had such fun! Their laughter was contagious. My mother told me when they were young girls, they would hide playing cards in the trees, because if my grandmother found the cards she would tell them the cards were the ”instruments of the devil,” and would burn them. Tools are inventions of human beings, neither good nor bad, in themselves. They are just objects, useful if tending a garden, cutting paper or fabric, chopping vegetables . . . well, you get the idea. The devil can use anything as a tool for his own purpose. Anything that we humans desire or use for entertainment, can be turned into for his evil purpose of separating us from God’s Kingdom. Even God’s own creation can become a tool for evil. Remember the fruit Eve plucked from the tree in the center of Eden, and gave to Adam? Our Creator created sex for the purpose of reproduction of the species, and yes, for
enjoyment and pleasure between spouses. It is a wondrous, and awesome creation. However, when turned into a commodity, or in cases of rape, not so beautiful. I’m sure the Lord never created it to be a cheap, momentary thrill. People will even murder each other because of it, and their insane jealousy. If my grandmother were still here on Earth today, I have no doubt that she would label our various electronic devices ‘instruments of the devil.’ If you think about it, the very same object can be a life saving tool or an instrument of death. For example, if someone uses a cell phone to place a 911 call, lives can be saved. That same device can distract a driver and cause a deadly car crash. Casino games, and lottery tickets can be entertaining, and occasionally profitable. Yet if parents spend the family’s last dollar gambling, or buying that ticket, and there is no money for groceries, then it can be considered evil. It is not the object itself, but how we use it, that makes the difference. Anything considered ‘good’ can be destructive if used in excess, or in a nonproductive or negative purpose. Our Creator gave us the ability to think, so we may discern consequences before we act and the Holy Spirit to guide us.
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RESOURCES Waiters Tell Their Stories on ‘Sundays are the Worst’ Website By Jim Denison Denison Forum on Truth and Culture Christianheadlines.com After hearing numerous stories about churchgoers who are rude to waiters at Sunday lunch, the pastor of Preaching Christ Church in Kingsport, Tennessee set up a website called “Sundays Are The Worst.” Here those who work in service industries can anonymously tell their stories of abuse at the hands of Christians. Some of them are truly shameful. A Christian who had to wait tables on Sundays to pay her college tuition notes “a certain attitude I often encountered that if I was working on a Sunday I must obviously be a godless heathen unworthy of even common courtesy.” A white water rafting guide complains about customers who tip him with a pamphlet about salvation that looks like a $20 bill. “This will not pay my rent,” he wants to tell them. Another person writes about customers dressed in Sunday church clothes who are “rude, obnoxious, selfish, and downright mean.” The writer adds, “I am a Christian but watching people act like this what kinda message are we sending about going to church and being a Christian?” One pastor was demanding and rude to his waiter, then placed 35
cents in his hand, quoted “silver and gold I do not have but what I do have I give to you,” and drove away in “his shiny Cadillac.” Here’s the flip side of the issue: scientific studies indicate that Christians on the whole are good tippers. According to one report, “the vast majority of Christians tipped at or above the normative 15 percent of bill size.” In fact, the more frequently people attend worship, the less likely they are to penalize wait staff for perceived poor service. How do we reconcile such findings with the perception that believers are so rude to servers? To me, this fact is clear: one cruelty outweighs a hundred kindnesses. Think about your own experiences. How many compliments do you remember the week after you receive them? How many insults? I can still quote an especially cruel statement made to me in high school. Pain endures in our memories long after happiness fades. A rude Christian in a restaurant injures the cause of Christ more than 30 kind Christians advance it. Remember that in a culture growing ever more hostile to the gospel, it is more imperative than ever that Christians demonstrate the relevance of our faith by our love. The “works of the flesh” include “enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger,” but the first “fruit of the Spirit” is love (Galatians 5:21, 22). Fruit reveals the kind of tree that produced it. Which tree do you want to be today?
Receipt reads: “I give God 10% why do you get 18”
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Counselor’s Corner: Having A Bad Day? Some of you may be having a great day, while others of you may say, “I’m not just having a bad day but a bad year.” Many people who struggle tend to fear that their bad days are due to something deep about who they are. They may also believe that what is happening to them is because they are inadequate Christians. The Scriptures state that we will experience trials of many kinds when we choose to follow Jesus Christ. He does not promise us a life that is free of problems. We are admonished to cast all our cares upon Him, as He does care for us. However, the tempter will come and try to get us to doubt God’s love for us by having us look more at our circumstances than toward the cross. (1 Peter 1:6, 5:7) If we are having a bad day, we should be careful in judging the cause of that bad day. If we have truly turned away from the sin in our lives and accepted the gift of God in Jesus Christ then we should seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance if we have had any part in bringing about our circumstances. We need to be careful about judging our spiritual standing before God by what is happening in our lives. When things seem crazy and overwhelming, “Be still, and know that I am God”. (Psalm 46:10) Pastor Elaine is the Counseling Director at Hope Point Church of The Nazarene. She can be reached at (530)671-1130 x 16 or PastorElaine@ identityAbuse.com.
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
CONSIDER CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS! Special Pullout Edition
Understanding differences between secular and Christian education is critical if parents are to make an informed decision in favor of their child. We offer the following comparison so that parents can see that in every area of education there is a significant difference in approach. These two different philosophies reflect who is the ultimate source of truth. Please read and pray through these.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
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The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
CONSIDER CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
Enrollment
Open
Strong in Education, Strong in
Tuition Assistance Available
www.fcs-k12.org Elementary (K-6th) 2620 Colusa Hwy. Yuba City, CA 95993 (530) 674-3922
Secondary (7th-12th) 3105 Colusa Hwy. Yuba City, CA 95993 (530) 674-5474
Call for more information
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Grace Christian Academy and Preschool Happy Birthday to us! This year marks our 35th year serving the Yuba-Sutter community. We are an outreach ministry of Grace Baptist Church located at the corner of Bogue and Walton in Yuba City. Our school began out of the desire of church members to have a biblically based educational option for their children. Our mission has not changed over those thirty-five years. It is still our goal to provide an excellent academic education, all the while keeping a biblical, Christ centered focus throughout the curriculum. We do so in a close family environment. Both the academy and preschool are blessed with dedicated staffs who, in some cases, have been here for many years. We also have a wonderful support staff dedicated to the success of the school. And what is really telling, is the number of parents who continue to show support for fundraisers and provide volunteer assistance for the teachers and projects long after their children have graduated! We are truly blessed by these people! The academy serves kindergarten through eighth grade students of all ethnic backgrounds. The preschool serves Pre-K, threes, and recently added a classroom for two year olds in order to fill a necessary need in our community for working parents. Please give us a call at 530-674-7210 for more information or to schedule a tour. We look forward to hearing from you.
GRACE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY and PRESCHOOL 1980 S. Walton Ave., Yuba City
Educating young minds and developing character in a family environment. Schedule a campus tour today!
530.674.7210
Preschool now enrolling for Summer Kids Kamp!
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CONSIDER CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
Adventist Christian School Adventist Christian School is a Seventh-day Adventist School. The word Adventist refers to our Christian belief in the coming of Christ; Seventh-day refers to our practice of worship on Saturday, the Sabbath; Christian, of course, refers to our embrace of Christ. Our school in Yuba City is part of a world-wide parochial school system that educates and embraces students with diverse ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds. Our highly qualified and caring teachers are guided by a Christian philosophy and faith. As a Christian school, we encourage students to develop their own faith relationship through personal decisions. As a Christian school, we perform in church programming, sing Christian songs, pray and regularly memorize Bible verses as part of our curriculum. As a school with high expectations for our students, we individualize our educational plans and meet each of our students with challenges and interventions. See the diversity of educational experiences available to our students by visiting our Facebook page. A four-year, independently financed study, showed that students at our schools outperformed their peers at the national average in every subject area. Students also scored higher than their expected achievement based on assessment of individual ability - a factor few other schools measure. One of the most dramatic findings is that students who transferred to Adventist schools saw a marked improvement in academic achievement. The more years a student attended an Adventist school, the more his/ her performance improved. Research also showed high economic and socioeconomic diversity. In North America, the Adventist Church runs almost 1,000 schools, many of which are small and rural. It was found there is no relationship between the size of the school that students attended and achievement. -www.acselementary.org
• • • • • • • •
K - 8 curriculum Safe Christian environment 21st century technology qualified and credentialed teachers differentiated education plans Excellent art and music instruction Class size limited to 15 students On-site Montessori daycare - 7 am to 6 pm
a developmentally sound education as unique as your child
369 Harding Road, Yuba City 530-673-7645
WWW.ACSELEMENTARY.ORG
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CONSIDER CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS Noah’s Ark Preschool Noah’s Ark Preschool is a ministry of Gray Avenue Christian Church committed to teaching preschoolers about God’s love, spirituality and Christian values. We strive to provide a nurturing environment where children are treated with respect and dignity. Our curriculum uses a theme-based approach utilizing a variety of materials, activities and teaching methods. Our program addresses the four developmental domains of social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth to provide the whole-child with the foundation needed for their next school experience. Our graduates are ready for the challenges of Kindergarten. Noah’s Ark fosters a partnership between every family and our school staff to ensure that each child receives the support and encouragement they need for a positive preschool experience. Our staff is a team of experienced, qualified, caring preschool teachers that are dedicated to providing quality care and instruction to the children in their care. Our teachers and director continue their education by attending seminars and classes in the field of early childhood education to keep updated with new ideas and information. Noah’s Ark Preschool has been in business in the same location for over 30 years. We are often referred by existing families to new families. We offer both full and part time program options with competitive rates and sibling discounts. We are open year around. We offer an after school program for K-age 12 and provide pickup from April Lane School. This program also provides care during school vacations and summer vacation. We are very excited to announce the opening of our new infant center serving families with infants ages 6 weeks – 24 months. We look forward to hearing from you. Please call 674-5464 for more information or attend our open house and BBQ in May to meet the Noah’s Ark family, see the preschool and enjoy some fun activities.
Train children to live the right way, and when they are old, they will not stray from it. Prov 22:6 (NCV)
“Seek not to grow in knowledge chiefly for the sake of applause, and to enable you to dispute with others; but seek it for the benefit of your souls.” ~ Jonathan Edwards
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Faith Christian School Non-Denominational K-12 School “Strong in Education, Strong in Faith” If you are looking for a Christ-centered education for your children, Faith Christian School (FCS) in Yuba City is an excellent option. Established in 1975, the non-denominational K-12th grade school provides a Christ-centered, Bible-based curriculum encouraging students to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and to pursue excellence in moral character; academic achievement; emotional, social, and physical development; and service to others. Students are challenged to strengthen basic skills, to think critically, to view the world from a Christian perspective, and to strive for excellence in every area of life. FCS faculty and staff are men and women from a variety of denominational and educational backgrounds who are qualified and dedicated. FCHS is accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Below are a few facts about the school. Detailed information can be found at: www.fcs-k12.org • A Beka curriculum - phonics emphasis at elementary level • College preparatory and advanced placement courses • Concurrent enrollment available with Yuba Community College • Physical fitness stressed at every grade level • Competitive and championship sports programs-High School is member of the CIF and SMAL • Fine arts include a variety of mediums and opportunities • Music at all grade levels (band, orchestra, choir-elementary only) • Award-winning, regionally recognized theatre arts program • Community service at every grade level with international outreach in high school • Extended Day Care before and after school • Tuition Assistance available • Over 90% of graduates go on to colleges and universities Call for more information or to schedule a tour: (530) 674-5474 (secondary) – (530) 674-3922 (elementary).
“I am afraid that the schools will prove the very gates of hell, unless they diligently labor in explaining the Holy Scriptures and engraving them in the heart of the youth.” ~ Martin Luther
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IN THE NEWS...
British Hospitals Used The Bodies Of Aborted And Miscarried Babies To Heat Their Buildings By Morgan Lee Christian Post Reporter A Channel 4 show airing on Monday night reveals that the bodies of thousands of preborn babies were included as clinical waste in 10 National Health Service (NHS) trusts and subsequently incinerated. Two others admitted to burning the human remains as part of their “waste-to-energy” plants. Health Minister and Conservative Member of Parliament, Dr. Dan Poulter, decried the practice as “totally unacceptable.” “While the vast majority of hospitals are acting in the appropriate way, that must be the case for all hospitals and the Human Tissue Authority has now been asked to ensure that it acts on this issue without delay,” Poulter said in The Telegraph. In response to the Channel 4 report, the U.K. Department of Health banned the practice on Sunday. Twenty-seven NHS trusts incinerated at least 15,500 fetal remains over the past two years and parents were often not consulted about the hospital’s intentions for the baby remains, the Channel 4 report also claims. In at least one hospital, Addenbrooke’s in Cambridge, administrators informed nearly 800 mothers that the remains of their
miscarried or aborted babies had been cremated. While Ipswich Hospital cremates the remains of miscarried and aborted babies, it reportedly still incinerated 1,101 fetal remains over the past two years, because it burns the waste from other hospitals that had not maintained a similiar policy. Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust denied that it had done anything with fetal remains that had not been previously discussed with parents “both verbally and in writing.” “The parents are given exactly the same choice on the disposal of fetal remains as for a stillborn child and their personal wishes are respected,” it said. Drew Belsky, a spokesperson for the prolife activist group Live Action, called the news “horrifying.” “There’s really not that much more to say about this than ‘Soylent Green is people.’ We’re finding ourselves in a society, whether [people] are alive or dead are being used as resource for the benefit of others. This completely flies in the face of how we’re supposed to treat people,” Belsky told The Christian Post. “There is an inherent dignity to every human being that we are finding just completely trampled in many cases, but
Cont. on p.19
School To 8-Year-Old: Jesus Is No Hero By B. Christopher Agee United States Justice Foundation Second grade students at Cerro Gordo Elementary School in North Carolina were recently given a fairly common assignment. The kids were asked to think about who they consider to be a hero and begin writing a paper explaining their decision. When 8-year-old Ryleigh Watts returned to class and informed her teacher who she wanted to honor, however, her mother said she was told to “write about something different.” Who was the proposed subject of young Ryleigh’s paper? Jesus Christ. “I think she should have freedom to write about what she wants to write about,” Heather Watts said of her daughter. “If she wants to write about Jesus, she should write about Jesus.” According to a local NBC affiliate, the school disputes the controversy, explaining “we have learned that students were not restricted from writing on any topic of their choosing.” The official statement encourages “our parents and guardians to contact or visit their child’s school to address any concerns.” Ryleigh and her mother, however, are not budging from their original story. Watts met with both the school’s principal and her daughter’s teacher and reports that the situation has not been rectified. The young girl, she confirmed, must still find a new hero for her report.
The ordeal, Watts concluded, amounts to the school trampling on a student’s constitutional rights. Freedom of speech and religion are clearly delineated in the Bill of Rights; and, as she noted, both are being attacked through this assignment. Obviously, students in school are held to a somewhat stricter standard than Americans in other environments. Rejecting an 8-year-old’s report based only on her admiration of Jesus Christ, however, is objectively discriminatory. Much to the chagrin of many leftists, there is no basis for schools – or any public place – to ban personal displays of Christianity. Activists across the nation, however, seem to be pursuing that very goal. In reality, Ryleigh’s choice made much more sense than any other imaginable subject. Christ left a perfect place to lay down his life for all mankind. If ever there was a story of heroism, the Gospel is it. Unfortunately, today’s morally bankrupt public education system apparently has no room for such a message of love and hope. Profane rappers like Jay-Z are heralded as role models by this administration, while kids idolize vampires and other monsters brought to life by leftists in Hollywood. Either of these choices, one might assume, would have been enthusiastically embraced by Ryleigh’s teacher.
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The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
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would like to thank the following people for their Individual Sponsorship Brad Indelicato Marty Brown Warren & Lucy Campbell Sandi Juri Chuck David Sue Kochi Carrie Pederson Bob Gilbert Wendell Prine Pamela Givans Jeff Royce Rich & Joan Hackney Jon & Pat Skillman Tom Harris An out of state donor Marie Hiebert
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Mobile Meals Ministy By Mario Johnson
Almost three years ago, I fell flat my face. I was totally broken. Little on did I know at the time that brokenness is a requirement for God’s usefulness. I’m getting ahead of myself. At that point, I turned to God and began a journey that has changed my life and He gets all the credit. One day, about 2 years ago, sitting around the house, God put on my heart to make 10 quality lunches and pass them out to homeless on the street in the Yuba City and Marysville area. I told my wife, Donna, what I was going to do and asked her if she wanted to do it with me. She agreed and that was the beginning of God’s work, in us and the Ministry. Initially, unsure of ourselves and very new to serving and blessing others, our delivery was kind of like rolling the window down half way, tossing the lunch out and then speeding off. In the beginning, we made the lunches at home and bought all of the items. Later, Linda Ouzts came alongside of us and the three of us continued. After months of serving and acknowledging that we had created a ministry, we decided to name it Mobile Meal Ministry. Our purpose comes from Matthew 25:35- “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me”
When you are doing God’s purpose in your life, He provides an increase. Soon, we out grew our homes and moved our lunch preparation to the Bride Church. Others came alongside us and some donations came forth. We also expanded deliveries to Linda and Oliverhurst areas. At that time, we delivered in our own cars. However, God put it on my heart to buy a yellow van to deliver food, clothes and other items. Due to the continued increase, we moved to our much larger current location, the Craftsmen for Christ warehouse. We have also matured in Christ and pray for the people. God has allowed us to bring many to know Jesus as their Savior. We still get donations, food or money, volunteers and Craftsmen For Christ funds a good portion of the expense. Currently we make 200 lunches each Saturday or 10,500 a year, and bless the same number of homeless, we affectionately call “Love Targets”. I thought I was blessing the less fortunate, however I learned that I was receiving the greatest blessing. If this sounds like something you feel God is putting on your heart, then show up at the warehouse, 613 Bogue Road, Yuba City, Saturday mornings at 8:30 and join in the privilege to bless and serve our neighbors. We have all ages (individuals and families) volunteering. If you have questions, call me at (530) 632-3701.
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
Christian Business Alliance. All are welcome! Paid for by the Committee to Elect Nate Black for Sutter County Auditor-Controller 2014 FPPC # 1364404
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COMMUNITY Samaritan Village Orphanage Tanzania, Africa Can You Sponsor Jackson?
Jackson (DOB: August 8th, 2001)
Jackson is 12 years old and a good student at Lady of Mercy School in Arusha, Tanzania. He enjoys playing outdoors and helping others. His life has been blessed since first coming to Samaritan Village as a 3 month old baby. Jackson has a twin sister, Jacqueline, who also is a child at Samaritan Village. Their mother was mentally ill and attempted delivery in the road because she could not find the hospital. People found her and brought her to the hospital where she gave birth, but the mother disappeared afterward. Jackson and his sister stayed at the hospital for three months and then were transferred to Samaritan Village because no one came to claim them. A gift of $60. monthly will provide for Jackson’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 Tara @ 530-329-6619 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
“...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matt 25:40
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Prayer Calendar
\
for
April 2014 1-Apr 2-Apr 3-Apr 4-Apr 5-Apr 6-Apr 7-Apr 8-Apr 9-Apr 10-Apr 11-Apr 12-Apr 13-Apr 14-Apr 15-Apr 16-Apr 17-Apr 18-Apr 19-Apr 20-Apr 21-Apr 22-Apr 23-Apr 24-Apr 25-Apr 26-Apr 27-Apr 28-Apr 29-Apr 30-Apr 1-May
Local officials and community leaders Families of Malaysian Air Victims Drought-Pray for rain and those most affected by lack of it Adoptive families & birth moms - Lifetime Adoption (p.3) Marriages, Restoration and Strength For boldness & protection to stand for Truth without compromise Jackson & other orphan children- Samaritan Village (see p. 3) Military, All armed forces & their families. Addicted, Rehab ministries- Feather River Mens Center, Joshua House, Celebrate Recovery Homeless/Poor - Twin Cities Rescue Mission, A Hand Up, R.E.S.T Teen Depression, Suicide Area Youth-Local Youth ministers /Youth groups Ambassador Radio Show /KCYC 104.7 for listener impact Missionaries -Fruit, Provision Passover - For Jewish people to know Yeshua (Jesus) Marketplace Ministries-Opportunities to share at work The Ambassador Newspaper-Increased readership and Impact Jobs for unemployed/underemployed Global Persecution-Safety/Courage of Believers EASTER! For many church visitors to hear the Gospel Middle East - For the peace of Jerusalem Sex Trafficking - pray for victims and their victimizers A Woman’s Friend - Unborn children/Pregnant Women Local ministries (see p. 3) Children and Children’s Ministries Sick/Afflicted, Healing and Comfort Christian Businesses-Ambassador Sponsors & others. Singles, Single Parents, Divorce healing Caregivers of elderly and disabled Russia/Ukraine and other world unrest National Day of Prayer-Unity among churches
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HOSPITALS Cont. from p.15 especially in the cases of our weakest brothers and sisters who are the pre-born children. Whether they are miscarried or aborted — they are people and we have to treat them that way.” Belsky added that a recent conversation with a libertarian on Twitter underscored to him the need for society to take human life more seriously. “He gave me the argument that ‘How can these embryos be people? It’s not like you’re giving them funerals or anything,’” Belsky relayed. “It occurs to me that it’s a truly warped sense of morality when you are determining who is and isn’t a human being based on who gets funerals. When stories like this come out, when aborted babies get incinerated to provide heat for other people, it starts to look like a really depraved sort of ideology on the meaning of human dignity is taking root and we really have to work hard, every single one of us, to make sure that stops happening.” Current members:
Newcastle Yuba City
9093 Old State Hwy Newcastle, CA 95658
916-663-4116 530-751-2238
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A-1 Carpet Cleaning - (530) 673-3634 - www.a-1clean.com Kathy Baum - Operation Christmas Child - (916) 747-2212 Ron Brasier - A Hand Up Ministry - (530) 671-1360 Marty Brown - KCYC-LP FM - (530) 674-5296 Kathleen Caldwell - City of Live Oak - (530) 695-2112 Fred Cox - Richard's Tree Service - (530) 673-7993 Chuck David Carol Dodds - A Woman’s Friend - (530) 741-9136 Dennis Gable - Operation Christmas Child - (530) 695-1495 Bob Gilbert - www.yourbettertomorrows.acndirect.com - (775) 722-1212 Pamela Givans Marcos Gonzalez - Ultimate Business Maintenance - (530) 671-1564 John L. Guth - Attorney/Estate Planning - www.johnguthlaw.com James Halpern - Remembrance Video Tributes - www.remembrancetributes.com Seth Halpern - Ambassador Newspaper - editor@ambassadornewspaper.com David Hobbs Painting - Cont. Lic#880562 (530)742-2428 David Holycross - Holycross Memorial – 530-751-7000 Brad Indelicato - Dolco Packaging - bdi26@comcast.net Bill Jens - Yuba Sutter Healthy Marriage Project - (530) 671-6069 Sandi Juri Dave Kugelman - Proforma by Kug - (530) 742-2423 Clay Maynard - Consultant - (530) 790-6611 Jerry Munz - JM Construction Co. - (530) 682-5316 Jared Nunes - Sutter Health Chuck & Miriam Page Ronda Putman Darrell Sayles - Love Unlimited Body of Christ - luboc2004@yahoo.com Roger Shadd - Shadd Janitorial Supply - 530-673-0083 Robert Stark - Sutter county Auditor/Controller - suttercountyauditor.org Dwayne Tanabe - Taylor Accountancy Corp - dktanabe@yahoo.com Jenine Tanabe - Jenine L. Tanabe, MD Dematology - (530) 743-0301 Kim Worthy - Stretch-A-Buck - 530-674-2275
Rich Fellowship, Powerful Prayer, Refreshing Presence of God! We meet at the Bonanza Inn the first Tuesday of the month from noon – 1pm.
For weekly reminders, updates, or to join email editor@ambassadornewspaper.com
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NOAH Cont. from Cover moviemakers, of course). They find the good in any semblance of spirituality coming from Hollywood. • If it’s Bruce Almighty, they start a group discussion about how God may or may not be like Morgan Freeman. • If it’s The Passion of the Christ, they invite their lost friends and neighbors over for dinner and a bloodbath. • If it’s Spiderman 3, they do a sermon series on revenge and the spirituality of superhero movies. No matter how bad the movie might be, it’s better than not engaging it at all. Make the best of a good Hollywood film! What’s Right and Wrong in These Approaches? I’ve deliberately caricatured the worst aspects of both these groups, but I don’t want us to miss the fact that there is something to be said for both reactions. The critics are right to maintain a high view of the Bible and to judge everything by its standard. They’re also right about a movie’s ability to solidify mental pictures and details in our mind, whether they reflect the Bible well or not. The celebrators are right to see an opportunity whenever Hollywood jumps on a biblical bandwagon. It’s easier to talk about spiritual things with your friends and neighbors when millions of people are flocking to spiritually themed films on the weekend. Where these two groups go
wrong is in they tend to overplay both panic and promise. The critics overplay the danger of a biblically inaccurate film, tending to see all artistic license as sacrilegious. The celebrators overplay the promise of a Hollywood blockbuster, expecting spiritual fruit to come, not from the Word, but from pixels on the big screen. NOAH That brings us back to Noah. It looks like 2014 will be interesting for having an epic film based on a Bible story. No matter what Hollywood does with Noah, we should recognize the backhanded compliment in having biblical source material as the basis for a film. The reason Bible stories are appealing is their built-in familiarity, plus their emotional resonance. So, the jury is out on this film. How will Noah be portrayed? As a righteous man or a pragmatic dealmaker? How will God be portrayed? As a righteous judge purging the world of wickedness or a bloodthirsty tyrant who can’t wait to destroy the earth? What kind of conversations will come from this film? Will we have the opportunity to talk with people about the nature and character of God? About the nature and character of righteous faith? I recommend Christians watch this movie the way we watch any movie
– with discernment and wisdom. We shouldn’t overhype the movie’s flaws and miss the bigger opportunity. Neither should we see the movie as the most promising method of evangelism to appear in recent days, as if the Word of
God needs visual representation in order to maximize its power. What about you? How will you respond to Noah the movie?
HEY MOM AND DAD!!! What will your kids do THIS summer? How About a Great Christ-centered Summer Drama Camp? Faith Christian Schools, Yuba City First United Methodist Church and the Award-Winning FCS Players 17th Annual Young People’s Summer Theatre Program
Hit the Stage with THE SACRAMENTO REGIONAL PREMIER OF :
Disney’s PETER PAN Jr. Classes: June 10 - July 12, 2014 Monday – Friday, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Ages 7-18 All Levels of Experience Welcome! Lots of Great Parts for Boys and Girls! Quality Musical Theatre Training from Dedicated Professionals! Daily Devotions and Snacks! Safe, Supportive Christian Atmosphere! Be a part of an Exciting, Professionally Produced Production in July! Financial Aid Available!
Performances: July 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12 - 7:30 pm, Sat. Matinee, July 12 - 2:00 pm Spaces will fill fast! Call 530-674-5474 for More Info Or Download an Application at www.fcsplayers.com!
The Brownsville Mercantile
Sutter Community Church
A Great Selection of Quality Items!
Renowned speaker, author and weekly television host of “That You Might Have Life” appearing at
Brownsville Mercantile sells quality items from over 100 consignors, mostly locals. We offer a wide range of items including: Home Decor, Kitchen, Bath, Cards, Gifts, Jewelry, and much more! Mon thur Sat 10-5 6838 Willow Glen Rd. Brownsville 675-1133
(across from the Golden Eagle Market)
Presents Dr. Lynn Hiles
2900 Acacia Avenue Sutter, California Wednesday, April 9, 2014 7:00PM To watch Lynn Hiles weekly television program speaking on grace and mercy, go to www.lynnhiles.com For more information and/or accommodations, please contact Candis Villalpando at (530) 300- 4082
The Ambassador
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EDITORIAL VIEWPOINT
By Jon Skillman
“Passing” Thoughts
the Easter Bunny the Spring Bunny and the Easter “Egg” the “Rainbow Nugget” or some other silly concoction. I do not oppose such a movement, in fact, I’m all for it! Neither the bunny nor the tinted eggs have any relevance to the true meaning of Easter. Move the rodent and its colorful cackle-berries to a secular spring fling where all can sing, dance and tiptoe through the tulips. I may even partake of a “Peep,” hunt for “Rainbow Nuggets” among the flowers and the trees or nibble the ears off a chocolate “Spring Bunny.” But on Good Friday I’ll be reflecting on how my sins nailed the Son of God to a cross where He died an agonizing death. I’ll be thanking God for His saving grace that saved a wretch like me. And on Easter Sunday, I’ll rejoice in the risen Christ who paid my sin debt in full and praise God for His promise of eternal life with Him. This is all available to even the most wretched of wretches. All you have to do is turn from your sinful ways (repent) and put your trust in Jesus as Savior and Lord. No matter what you may have done, or how far you may have fallen, no one is beyond the Grace of God. You know, spring is often equated with rebirth…it’s the perfect time to be born again. Die to your sinful nature and be born again in Christ. Do it…and have a Happy Easter!
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AS WE SEE IT
LOSE THE BUNNY
I can always tell when we are nearing a Christian Holiday. The first clue of the approach of Easter seeped out of the comic strips of this morning’s paper…one cartoonist lampooning the Bible while another snickered over creationism. By the time you read this I predict the spring season on Christian bashing will be in full swing. Skeptics and atheists will ramp up their efforts to debunk the Bible, belittle believers and redefine the Easter season as a celebration of the rites of spring. I mean, really, who wants to think of the brutality of Christ’s crucifixion on such a beautiful spring day? And who wants to be reminded that the resurrection of Christ puts a whole new circumstance on the meaning of death…especially those dire consequences for the nonbeliever. But it seems easier to put one’s faith in an egg-laying rabbit than a loving Savior. I can understand that a furry little bunny and pastel colored eggs are pretty darn comforting when compared to the reality of death. I can see the attraction to the rejuvenating theme of spring. Hey, I love the season, the renewing cycle of life, the birds and the bees, the flowers and the trees and a thing called love… it doesn’t get much better than that. But these are things to enjoy, not to worship. This is where things like Earth Day run off the rails…it becomes the worship of the created, not the worship of the Creator. I foresee a movement to rename
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
Recently, I’ve seen and heard of several notable people passing from this life to the next. It seems like that is a daily occurrence among people I know. Perhaps that is a sign of my own aging. Two of those that come to mind are my friend Dean Ingraham and (someone I would not befriend) Fred Phelps. Both were men of influence. Dean’s was positive; Fred’s was negative. Both left a legacy. Dean- a legacy of love; Freda legacy of hate. Dean knew Jesus and humbled himself before Him and others. Roberta, the love of his life passed away several years ago leaving him broken-hearted, but anticipating seeing her in Heaven with Jesus, his Lord and Savior. Dean was man of truth, involved in many community projects including the founding of Faith Night at the Gold Sox. He served with the Christian Business Alliance, The Ambassador, and his church, among other organizations, faithfully doing what God had called him to do.
Seth Halpern - Editor Fred, however, became infamous for spewing hate in the name of Jesus and hurting countless people at the most vulnerable of times- their loved one’s funeral. Fred, if you didn’t know, was the leader of the Westboro Baptist Church. Let me clarify, that I do not believe there is anything resembling “Baptist” or “Church” from their actions. Hope, healing, and redemption were not part of the “gospel” they proclaimed. Dean built bridges to help introduce Christ to people. Fred muddied the name of Christ to those who need him most. Dean saw most, if not all of his family members come to salvation by faith in Jesus. He will see them in Heaven and get to enjoy them forever. Unfortunately, for Fred and his clan, I shudder to think what their reunion will look like. What legacy will you leave?
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Dean Ingraham sharing a message to the CBA in January
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The Ambassador
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
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MONROE TRANSMISSION Don Monroe
1397 Colusa Hwy Yuba City 530-751-2238
MARKETPLACE
HOME MAINTENANCE
LANDSCAPING
DANIEL JONES PROPERTY CARE AND MAINTENANCE
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Bus./Home/Indust. Maint. *Lawn Care *Preventive Maintenance *Installs *Repairs “Gladly serving to keep your investment solid” DAN JONES 530-301-4722 electrical87@yahoo.com
Tim's Total Truck Repair Mobile and emergency Service
Complete Diesel Repair and Welding 25yrs exp
ASE cert. Master Tech.
(530) 870-7217
DAVE GREENETZ CONSTRUCTION INC. www.greenetzconstruction.com
Impact The Community
Yuba City Pest Control
P.O. Box 2, Yuba City, CA 95992 Ph. (530) 755-2555 Fx. (530) 755-4672
530-673-7993
Certified Arborist www.richardstree.com Lic. 608859 HEALTH BEAUTY
Excellent Massage Care “A Touch Like No Other"
Brenda Banducci 530-701-4847
397 Del Norte Ave, YC
eXfuze Seven+
botanical supplements: acai, fucoidan, goji, seabuckthorn, noni, gac, mangosteen Robert E. Stark
682.9602 - lic.# 452975
"Quality Service Guaranteed"
674-0345, stark@otnusa.com
HILBERS INC.
A-1 Enterprises
JENINE L. TANABE
REMODELING
CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS 1210 Stabler Lane, Yuba City www.hilbersinc.com 530-673-2947
Now offering Handyman Services Call us at (530) 673-3634 Contractor’s License # 728636
MD DERMATOLOGY 414 G Street, Suite 204 Marysville 743-0301
LANDSCAPING
PETS
Window Coverings (530)755-3474
A BETTER YARD CARE
Country Vet Clinic, Inc
Lic. #890713
General Yard Care & Maintenance
SHUTTER-UP Blinds * Shutters * Shades
PROFORMA BY KUG Dave Kugelman Promotional Products www.proforma.com/kug 530-632-9292
“We can help free up your weekends!”
530-788-5899
Cassandra Hoon
All Seasons Tree and Turf Care, Inc. " Your Landscape and Tree Doctor" www.allseasons.ms
(530) 755 - 1304
4839 E. Butte Rd, Live Oak "Treating all creatures Great and Small" Jerry Long, DVM & Assoc.
Furry Family Care & Training Services
www.furryfamilycareandtraining.com furryfamilycareandtraining@yahoo.com 530-844-2824
Health Grooming-In Home Pet Sitting-Dog/Puppy Training-Rehab
Promote Your Business Here!
PHOTOGRAPHY / HOBBIES
Son Light Glass
Leaded, Stained, Mosaic and used Glass Custom Designs & Classes
530-755-6602 980 Gray Ave, YC (next to Brock's)
Piano Tuning & Small Repairs * Music Lessons * by an experienced teacher
Don Pitter 530-822-0134
Standard Tuning for $90!
RETAIL
Stretch-A-Buck! Dollar Discount Store 451 Queens Ave, YC 530-674-2275
"Get MORE for your BUCK!"
"MarketPlace ads should not be considered as an endorsement of The Ambassador as to the spiritual commitment of the advertiser. The Ambassador does not and cannot "monitor" spiritual commtiment of its advertisers."
Call (530) 933-1385 or email: editor@ ambassadornewspaper.com
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Christian Business Alliance and The Ambassador Christian Newspaper present
National Day of Prayer Breakfast with
Francis Anfuso Francis Anfuso was born in 1949 in Brooklyn, NY, one year prior to his father being elected to the first of five terms in the United States Congress. Unfortunately, his father’s absorbing career left little time for family, as his attention was fully given to his work. From 1981 to 1997, Francis and his family traveled, speaking and conducting training seminars in churches and Christian conferences in 10 nations. As the founder of Christian Equippers International and 21st Century Ministries, he developed textbooks, booklets, tracts, seminars, music albums, videos and training courses for Christians throughout the world. In 1997, he started The Rock of Roseville (www.rockofroseville.com) near Sacramento, California. Thousands have visited The Rock and been touched by the Spirit of God and countless lives have been changed. Francis is the author of twelve books and can be heard across America by millions of people each day on KLOVE Christian radio. Francis and Suzie have been married over 37 years. They have twin daughters (also in the ministry) who have blessed them with seven grandchildren.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Church of Glad Tidings Hwy 99 at Eager Rd., Yuba City Buffet Breakfast
BAFB Color Guard Tickets $15 $120 table of 10
Tickets available at Crosspointe Christian Books
646 Plumas St., Yuba City
(For more information contact David Kugelman at 671.3160 ext. 204
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