The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
We are therefore Christ’s Ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20)
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
May 2011
FREE
It’s STILL Legal to PRAY in America...for now
Seth Halpern Editor
You may have read the headline and thought “of course it is”. However, the way things are going in other nations including England and other parts of Europe, we cannot get too comfortable. For a bit of history, let’s remember that not too many decades ago the Bible was a primary textbook in public schools. Until 1962, each school day began with prayer. In recent years, lawsuits are bringing the removal of the ten commandments from our courtrooms. Traditional marriage is now simply an “optional” form of matrimony in several states. Up until very recently, you could share your opposing perspective on homosexuality or Islam in an open dialogue. Now many consider it “Hate Speech”. So much for freedom of speech! More and more organizations, both private and public (including the military) impose policies to disallow prayers offered “in Jesus name”. We have slowly but surely given away many of our rights as Americans. Yet, for now, we still have the right to gather for prayer in this country. Therefore, we MUST use that right by coming together to pray for our nation, state, and communities and their leaders. We live in a largely secular nation today. Regardless of surveys showing that more than 70% of Americans identify themselves as “Christian”, the reality is that less than 10% live a life committed to the God of the Bible. Our most prominent religion is the religion of self where the individual is on the throne. Despite the desire and design of our founding fathers, we have shifted away from the worship of God to the worship of man. Our idols are celebrities, and there is more loyalty and unity for our sports teams than for our churches. God is seen by most as either a cosmic Santa Clause or a cranky old warden. Prayer is wishful thinking or some
60th Annual National Day of Prayer Event Schedule th May 5 , 2011 7:00 -9:00 AM NDP Prayer Breakfast With Special Speaker Ken DeVore @ Church of Glad Tidings Hwy 99 at Eager Rd. Ticket Supply limited Contact Sponsor and host: Christian Business Alliance Dave Kugelman 671-3160 6:00 PM Community Prayer And Worship Meet at the Fountain Square In Yuba City Off of Plumas St. Hosted by: Pastor Balbir Subhkaram House of Prayer Church 933-6045
12:00 – 12:45 PM Prayer for Civic Leaders at 3 locations! City Hall in Yuba City 1160 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City Pastor James Anderson Cornerstone E F Church 674-3087 Sutter County Hall of Records nd 466 2 St, Yuba City Pastor Tim Kurtz Fusion Christian Fellowship 821-2224 Yuba County Board of Supervisors 915 8th Street, Marysville Pastor Mike Hunt Riverside Restoration Center 415-3369
The theme for this year is
“A Mighty Fortress is our God” and is based on the verse from Psalm 91:2 which states: “I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
innocuous sentimental chatter in times of tragedy. This, I’m afraid, is the place we have become. There is plenty of blame and accusation to go around. Unfortunately, that does not stop the problem nor change the course of our society’s demise. Only coming to the Almighty God in prayer can make that change. Legislation, as important as it is, may temporarily stop a leak of immorality, but cannot change the direction of the water flow. We need to come together in prayer for our neighbors, communities, state and nation. Arguments, petition, boycotts, and other exhausting activities cannot move the hand of the Almighty as can prayer. continued on page 9 - PRAYER
Sponsor Spotlight:
Jan Duke. . . pg. 12
WHAT’S INSIDE Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 2 Ministry Resources. . . . . Pg. 3 Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 4 - 5 Media/Entertainment . . . Pg. 7 Resources . . . . . . . . Pg. 9 - 10 Community . . . . . . . Pg. 11 - 12 Marketplace . . . . . . . . . . Pg. 15
The Ambassador
1
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
SPONSORS
Ministry Partners - The generous support of our Ministry Partners and Business Sponsors allows The Ambassador to be distributed each month Tree & Yard Work
530.237.6743
Tom Harris, Owner • Serving Northern CA
State License# 918402 • City License# 67038
Free Estimates
Please consider TREE
Residential/Business Lic# 69861
Selena Bisby
(530) 743-2363
Grange Insurance Agency
, INC.
supporting
Serving our neighbors since 1957
The Ambassador
673-7993
through Business
Certified Arborist
Sponsorship
Lic. Contractor #608859
Fully Insured P.L. / P.D. / Worker’s Compensation
Squeaky Cleaners
SERVICE
Jan Duke, Re/Max Gold TopPropertyCop.com
Short Sales save your credit 530-701-4820
JENINE L. TANABE
Straw Hat Pizza 540 Bogue Rd (Tower Market Center) Yuba City 671-5150
Sixth Day Fishing
Collins Lake
www.sixthdayfishing.net Jason Helms, Guide 530-635-5732
Northern California's Best family fishing lake
Ultimate Building Maintenance
Plumbing Doctor - 671-9111
1-800-286-0576 www.collinslake.com
MD DERMATOLOGY 414 G Street, Suite 204 Marysville 743-0301
David Hobbs Painting
A-1 Carpet Cleaning
SHUTTER-UP
(530) 673-3634
Window Coverings
Proforma by Kug
Ameriprise Financial
James Gallagher
Water Damage Restoration Carpets/ Windows/ Upholstery
(530)682-7727 Blinds* Shutters*Shades Lic. #890713
Dave Kugelman Promotional Products 530-632-9292
Brett Meyer Financial Planner 530-674-1111
Sutter County Supervisor (530)713-7505 jgallagher@co.sutter.ca.us
Shadd Janitorial Supply
Crosspointe Christian Books & Gifts
Robert E. Stark, CPA, MBA
Dwayne Tanabe Taxes-Bookkeeping &
530-673-0083 Roger Shadd/Owner 226 Bridge Street, YC
530-673-6188 646 Plumas St., YC
25 YEARS Sutter County Auditor-Controller
1 Cor. 1:18
suttercountyauditor.org 822-7127
Caldwell’s Creative Laminates
CURVES
Sperbeck’s
Fitness for Women
Landscape and Design
530-821-5845 Formica & Solid Surface
821-5898
1316 Woodward St. YC
Dave Greenetz Construction Inc. www.greenetzconstruction.com
"The Power to Amaze Yourself"
530-673-8334 Mike Sperbeck/owner
682.9602- lic.# 452975
Yvette Adams 530-743-6081 Auto-Home-Farm-Mobilehome
www.a-1clean.com
Beyond Blessed www.beyond-blessed.com Dessert Specialist & Custom Cakes
916-769-4148
Monroe Transmission Don Monroe 1397 Colusa Hwy Yuba City 530-751-2238
Mountain Top Yogurt Lincoln Plaza 1000 Lincoln Rd, Ste E
674-8950 Andy & Liz Garcia-owners
Dr. David A. Bradley Optometrist 747 Plumas St., Yuba City
673-8440 2 The Ambassador
530-742-2428 dhobbsptg@hotmail.com
Jim Whiteaker Sutter County Supervisor (530) 713-7504
Davis Family Insurance & Financial Services
Jwhiteaker@co.sutter.ca.us
530-671-2764 #0F27435
Gaiser Pets 714 Plumas St Yuba City (530) 751-8155 “Not Your Ordinary Pet Store”
A Farmers Insurance Agency Auto-Home-Life-commercial-Blue Cross 1650 Sierra Ave Suite 202A - YC 95993
530-671-1564 Marcos Gonzalez/Owner Janitorial/Carpet Cleaning & Yard Service
Doug LaMalfa STATE SENATOR - District 4 1282 Stabler Lane #630-257 Yuba City CA 95993 www.douglamalfa.com
The Feel-Good Plumbing Experience! We charge by the job not by the hour
Free in-home estimates License # 940985
Business Services (530)846-3335 dktanabe@yahoo.com
REMODELING
Christian Business Alliance 530-742-1423 “Building up Christians, Lifting up Christ” We meet at the Bonanza Inn the first Tuesday of the month from noon – 1pm.
Author - “Peter The Leader”
Become a Business Sponsor
www.petertheleader.com
Call 933-1385
Janis Maasen
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
MINISTRIES
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
A Woman’s Friend Pregnancy Resource Clinic
Praise Chapel 398 Aylor Avenue Yuba City
is accepting applications for an Conquering Addictions, Restoring Lives, and Reuniting Families 12 Month Faith Based residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program proven to make a difference in our community. 2465 Birch Street Live Oak, CA 95953
CALL TODAY: Church of Glad Tidings
www.praisechapelyubacity.org
Administrative Assistant position.
530.870.0511 Sun. 9am & 11am, Wed. 7pm
Pastor Chris Madsen
The 32-hour week position requires bookkeeping and data base management experience and extensive experience using Microsoft Excel & Word. Contact
530-695-8006 LOVE UNLIMITED BODY OF CHRIST
Agape Lighthouse Community Church 2106 Pepper Street Sutter, CA 95982 Pastor BJ Wilson (530) 237-6351
evelyn@awomansfriend.org or (530) 741-9136.
1179 Eager Road, Yuba City
“To exemplify the Love of GOD in its unlimited existence;
Peter the Leader:
www.churchofgladtidings.com
Equipping the saints, making disciples, advancing the Kingdom”
Pre and Post Holy Ghost
Sundays 2 PM & 6:30 PM Tuesdays Comfort Suites 1034 North Beale Road, Marysville Al Barganier, Pastor
Peter's life is full of insecurity and fear UNTIL his transformation, by the power of the Holy Spirit, filled him full of authority, confidence and boldness!
530.671.3160 Saturday 7pm - Sunday 9:30am Wednesday 7pm
Living Word Christian Center Christian Books Gifts Christian Decor Church Supplies
530-534-1227 1533 Myers Street, Oroville
The Ranch A Ministry to Pastors & Seminary Students
Janis is an ordained minister - available for speaking engagements and weddings. She can be reached at (530) 675-9663 Books can be purchased for $12.99 at
www.petertheleader.com
We offer a peaceful place for pastors and/or their staff to get alone with God.
or at Crosspointe Christian Books in Yuba City
Encourage your pastor to come see us at The Ranch! www.TheRanchGrassValley.com
Church Sponsorships Available
Call (530) 844-1351 or e-mail us at: Raingerj98@wildblue.net for a reservation.
THE AMBASSADOR
Promote Your Ministry Here!
? 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 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
Editor/Publisher - Seth Halpern Advisory Board - Sean Blount & Dave Kugelman Design - Martin Virtual
The Ambassador
3
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
LIVING
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
To Be Content
Kid’s Corner
by John Imler
Ben Halpin
As I read Paul’s words from Philippians 4:11, my human nature tends to visualize the author as one who is perhaps now old and senile. One, who after an outstanding life as a servant of his Master, is now just ready to pack it all in and give up the battle. As he wrote these words, Paul is sick and in prison with little hope of seeing freedom again. Isn’t it natural that as he pens these words to the church at Philippi that he would desire to paint a rosy picture of his life in order to encourage them to remain faithful to Christ? How else could one explain words that are so unnatural to most of us: “to be content whatever the circumstances.” Was it really possible for Paul to have done this? Is it possible for us in today’s environment to experience the contentment that Paul spoke so easily of? Don’t we have far more issues to deal with than he did? Aren’t our lives far more complex that Paul’s life was? Yet in all he had suffered he was able to give us his secret. He hints of it in verse 12 with the words, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” Then he seems to shout at us in verse 13: “I can do everything through him (Jesus Christ) who gives me strength.” I recently read of a young Christian lady who, after suffering from cancer for several years and now needing hospice care, had this to say about her circumstances. “Having cancer isn’t what I would’ve chosen, but knowing that somehow, this is God’s perfect plan helps me have deep, abiding peace. Besides,
who better to bring the hope of Jesus to everyone who works in the cancer ward…than a cancer patient! Why shouldn’t it be me?!” And, “If my cancer is how others will know the hope, peace and joy of Jesus is real…then that‘s a life well lived.” Yes, Paul’s secret to contentment was discovered by Jenni Reiliing, a staff member of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch in Bend, Oregon. That secret is available to all who will believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:16-18).
“Having cancer isn’t what I would’ve chosen, but knowing that somehow, this is God’s perfect plan helps me have deep, abiding peace. Besides, who better to bring the hope of Jesus to everyone who works in the cancer ward… than a cancer patient!
John can be reached through his web page at www.faithrescued.com.
Going to church is like going to practice. If you don’t go every time, you won’t be as good as you could be if you had gone to practice. So if church is like going to practice then Heaven is like the big game. Going to church gets you better at understanding God like practice gets you better at playing the game. We must be encouraging as a team and support each other in coming to church. Hebrews 10: 24-25 says,” And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” This means that if a player is not planning to go to practice, we should encourage them to go to practice. Don’t avoid practice because everyone is critical to the team. In the same way we must encourage our fellow Christians to come to church because they are critical to the body of Christ, so that they can be prepared for the big game and be ready for the day when Jesus comes back. Going to church should be a priority because going to church is what strengthens us to do what’s right, and it is the root of our relationship with God. If you don’t go to church regularly, then you won’t be as strong as you could be if you did. You won’t be able to fellowship with other Christians who can give you helpful tips on living life as a Christian and you also get to spend time with your friends. Even though you may think it is boring, it’s really going to help you if you give it a chance. You might even enjoy it if you engage your-self into the lesson. I think that the Bible verses help guide you like reading the rule book at practice guides you in doing the right thing in practice, not cheating or fouling. Another reason to enjoy church is that you get to sing songs. Singing songs is another fun activity to do while you are at church. Therefore, you should attend church or practice even if you think you don’t need to learn any more. In conclusion we must attend church to be ready for the day when Jesus comes back. All in all, you should always attend church to help strengthen you so you are ready for the big game. Let’s play!
Professionals Dedicated to Protecting and Preserving Your Growing Investment Serving Our Neighbors Since 1957
(530)
TREE
SERVICE
, INC.
673-7993
www.richardstree.com
Certified Arborist Tree Trimming Cabling & Bracing Tree & Stump Removal 24 Hr Emergency Service Arborist Reports
10% DISCOUNT WITH THIS AD Fully Insured for P.L. & P.D.
Workmen's Comp.
4 The Ambassador
Lic. Contractor #608859
Excellent Massage Care
2500 Exp. 5/31/11
Reflexology - Deep Tissue Couples Massage - Hot Stone - Exfoliating Brenda Banducci, CMT, ABMP
(530) 701-4847 Senior Discounts
$
397 Del Norte Ave, Yuba City, CA 95991 ” Wonderful…I felt refreshed and energized!” Seth Halpern
Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage 30 Minutes Free Back Glow Treatment
I Love My Work”
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
LIVING
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
Hayfield Summers
Mom to Mom
By Paula McBride
by Jo Lynne Keough My daughter has learned to read the clouds. I realized this one morning when she tramped out the front door in pajamas to see what kind of weather she should dress for. The sky was blanketed gray that day. “Long sleeves,” she reported as she scurried into the house. Off she went to dig through her shirt drawer. Reading the clouds is a helpful skill, although clouds can quickly change. How many times have you left the house early in a thick sweater, only to peel it off by noon because the sun e m e rg e d a n d t h e c l o u d c o v e r evaporated? Even the weather scientists with advanced equipment don’t always get it right. In the Bible, clouds represent God’s glorious presence. For the Israelites and Moses, God led them in a pillar cloud by day. David called people to praise God “who rides on the clouds” (Psalm 68:4). For Peter, James, and John a cloud surrounded Moses and Elijah as they spoke to Jesus; then God’s voice sounded from the cloud. Daniel saw a futuristic vision of Jesus “coming with the clouds of heaven” (7:13). However glorious clouds can be (Think jewel-toned sunsets!), they can also block our view. When our resurrected Jesus ascended into heaven, clouds hid him from the disciples’ sight. Have you ever driven in thick fog? It can be impossible to see even twenty feet ahead when these low-lying clouds
“Cloudy Days”
settle in. Recently I’ve entered a cloudy season of life. Not the cumulous kind but the spiritual variety. Sometimes in my journey with the Lord, He has shown me the “path” ahead; by faith I can see what direction he is leading me. But at the moment, the path seems covered by fog. My way isn’t blocked, but I’m not sure in what direction He is taking me. At first I panicked, praying “God, remove the clouds so I can know what Your plans are.” But when He didn’t change my situation, I relaxed and remembered that He comes with the clouds. I suppose my good Shepherd is teaching me to “live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Like my daughter, I can learn to read these clouds. I can choose to “dress warmly” by spending more time than usual with God. When He chooses, the Lord will remove the clouds and reveal his plans. In the meantime, He is near me in this season. God is in the clouds.
“Just put one foot in front of the other,” I challenged myself as I labored up the hill. Lifting my waterlogged boots over growing alfalfa, I inched my way up the hay field, one hand grasping my end of an irrigation pipe and the other reaching out for balance. I dared not glance toward the other end of the pipe where my sturdy stepson handled the weight with youthful exuberance and a humorous air of superiority. Hayfield summers, I call them now—the precious time with Kevin, moving pipe at dawn and dusk, every day of the week. The labor was the hardest I’ve ever done, but years later there’s a bond I have with Kevin that I don’t have with the other kids. It’s a relationship built on hard work and its fulfilling harvest. He was the strong one; I was weak and clumsy. He slowed his steps for me, and I learned to keep up. He could have moved the pipes alone, but a shared task is faster and more fun. As hard as it was to get up in the morning, the glory of sunrise nourished our souls. At the end of the day, there was the satisfaction of a job well done. Boy! Did dinner ever taste good! When Jesus walked the harvest field of earth, He didn’t offer His followers an extended vacation. He said they would have to do hard things. Many would be rejected, families would be divided, and some would be tortured and killed. They would be asked to take up a cross and follow Him—but not alone. “Come to
me,” Jesus said, “all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light” (Matthew 11:28-30 NLT). King David, an expert in both tragedy and triumph, wrote, “Give your burdens to the Lord and He will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall (Psalm 55:22). I slipped and fell plenty during those hayfield summers. I even stabbed a pitchfork through my foot, but it’s the companionship I remember. Kevin was so patient with me, so humble and gentle (when he wasn’t teasing!) He never chided me for being slow, and I was never afraid of rattlesnakes when he was near. Being with him made the work a delight. Some of us stubbornly hold on to our burdens like a wobbly rancher balancing a forty-foot irrigation pipe all alone. What a gracious gift our Lord Jesus Christ gives when He asks us to roll our burdens on to Him. He desires a companionship with us that comes from spending time together, walking in step, sharing the load, and anticipating the harvest. Let’s meet with Jesus each morning, work with Him all day, and go to bed satisfied in the nourishment of our souls. Even our food will taste better!
Greenetz Construction “We Take It Personal”
Kitchens Baths Remodels 682.9602 greenetzcontruction.com License #452975
The Ambassador
5
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
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
Right to Life Monthly Meeting 1st Wed., 7pm (1st Wed of every month) St. Isisdore’s Community Parish Hall Conference Room. Business Meeting open to the all interested in pro-life issues. For more info, visit www.ysrtl.org
ME Dessert (Marriage Educators) Mon 6:30-8PM (Monthly 2nd Monday) @ The Cookie Tree, YC 1st timers Welcome! Have a cup and a cookie while listening to what others are & planning to do to strengthen relationships and families. If you have an interest in strengthening relationships, we can fan your flame. Call Robbie @671-6069 or visit www.YubaSutterMarriage.com
WISE (Women In Search of Excellence) Bible Study Cornerstone Church Tue. 7pm
FREE Karate Classes First Baptist Church of Olivehurst Mon 6:30pm FREE karate classes taught from a Christian perspective. 743-1831 for info, Pastor Miguel.
DIVORCE CARE Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Road off Hwy 99 Wednesdays 7 - 8:30pm A Divorce Care group is a special place of encouragement, information and sharing. Divorce care groups meet weekly, providing you with an ongoing "support team" as you deal with the issues surrounding your separation or divorce. Info: 530671-6069 www.YubaSutterMarriage.com
Weekly Recovery Groups Crossroads Community Church Sunday 7-8pm, Thursday 6:30-8:30 We also offer a Grief Recovery Group on Wednesday Evenings from 7 to 8 p.m. For more information, please call Joyce Jordan at: 674-3441.
Celebrate Recovery Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church Tues 7pm - 674-9210
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.
6 The Ambassador
AWANA cont. Awards are given for Bible verse memorization and handbook achievement. For ages 2 through the eighth grade. Prayer Vigil for LIFE! Last Wed of each month, 4-5pm Join us as we gather with people of faith throughout our area, as we peacefully pray on the sidewalk at the Yuba City Planned Parenthood. We meet on the last Wednesday of the month. For more info, please contact Heather Pugh (530)751-9349. WestWord Riders Motorcycle Ministry Gridley Grill, 484 Hwy 99, Gridley May 21st, 8:30am The WestWord Riders motorcycle fellowship meets the 3rd Saturday of each month. Meetings are followed by a planned ride so dust off that helmet and join us! For any other information contact Willy Alongi at 701-1045. FREE YARN CRAFT Class First Baptist Church of Olivehurst – 1777 8th Ave, Olivehurst Monday’s, 10am. CELEBRATE RECOVERY Hope Point Nazarene, 600 N. George Washington Blvd, Yuba City Wed, 6:30pm Hope Point Nazarene, 2727 Fir Street, Live Oak Fri, 6:30pm Join us for this Christ-centered recovery group that provides a safe place for you with people who will love you through your pain, and celebrate with you during your victories. The group meets weekly, so visit us any time. Contact Jim Myers at 635-4688 for more information. Knit & Crochet Women's Fellowship First Baptist Church of Olivehurst, 1777 - 8th Avenue 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. Contact Vivian 530-3019841 for further information. Couplehood Wednesdays 6:45 - 8:45pm Church of Glad Tidings www.YubaSutterMarriage.com How can we protect our relationship from becoming another statistic? What can we do to keep our love energized? Couplehood teaches how to protect, nourish and transform your relationship into an enduring and fulfilling connection. Info: 530.671.6069
52nd Annual Salad Luncheon “Tribute to God in Flowers” First Presbyterian Church, Huston Hall, 1940 Freeman St., (corner of Sampson St. & Rideout Way) Marysville Sat, May 7, 11:30am Tickets available at the door, Suggested donation $7.00 per person, to reserve your spot for the 11:30am seating please call the church office at 530742-5541. Proceeds benefit the Women’s Ministry.
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM Kingsmen Concert Crossroads Community Church, YC. 751-9168 Thu, May 12th ,7 p.m. There aren't many groups today who can boast the kind of far-reaching legacy that comes with a 53year career as one of gospel music's most influential artists. The Kingsmen emerged in the 1950's and continue the legacy of unleashing music that solidified them as pioneers in the southern gospel music field. Free! REALLY BIG Rummage Sale Fri, May 13 (7am – 4 pm) & Sat May 14 (7am – 2pm) First United Methodist Church 3101 Colusa Hwy, YC (George Washington at Colusa Highway) Samaritan Village Benefit Concert Crossroads Community Church, YC Sun., May 15th, 6pm Yvette Carter and friends will be performing a wide variety of gospel music for your enjoyment. Donations raised at this event will support orphans in Tanzania. For more info call 329-6619. Parental Rights Amendment Presentation Grace Baptist Church, Corner of Bogue Rd/Walton Ave, YC Sun, May 15, 7p.m. A United Nations Treaty will remove the rights of fit American families to direct the raising of their children. International judges would make public policy for America on families and children. Learn how the Parental Rights Amendment will give constitutional protection to American families. Come with questions. Visit: www.ParentalRights.org Faith Christian High School Senior Project Presentations First United Methodist Church Y.C. Mon, May 16, 6:30 p.m. Top five senior presentations are delivered to a panel of judges and a local audience. Students must present their side of a controversial issue in a persuasive manner and answer questions from the audience at the end of their presentation. All are welcome. Admission & refreshments are free. Rock ‘N Worship Experience Hope Point Nazarene Church, YC Fri May 20th, 7pm All are welcome to come to this free concert featuring Rock and Worship bands from the area. Prizes and Giveaways all night so don’t miss it! A love offering will be taken and all proceeds will support the youth mission team going to Brazil this summer. Contact Rachel 674-9097 for more info. The Art of Marriage North Valley Calvary Chapel: 613 Bogue Rd. YC May 20 6:30-9:30PM & Saturday, May 21 9am-4pm A marriage conference for couples of all ages. Cost is $25 and it includes dessert on Friday, lunch on Saturday and a workbook for the couple to share. Please call the NVCC office @530-674-5296
PICK-A-PARTNER (aka “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk or Jerkette”) Church of Glad Tidings 1179 Eager Road, YC May 20-21 Pt1 Friday 6:30-9:30pm Pt2 Saturday 8:30am - 2:00pm Info: 530.671.6069 www.YubaSutterMarriage.com In this workshop you'll learn everything you need to pick the best partner for you. Plus, you'll learn how to grow your relationship while lessening the risk of injury, so that it will be a healthy union that lasts. Janet Paschal in Concert Crossroads Community Church, YC. 751-9168 Sat, May 21st ,7 p.m. 16 solo albums, multiple Grammy and Dove award nominations, Female Vocalist of the Year, numerous Radio hit singles, performances at the Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, Grand Old Opry, and the list goes on and on. Janet Paschal is an inspirational gospel vocalist and performer. It’s a Free concert. Women’s Banquet with Janet Paschal Crossroads Community Church, YC. 751-9168 Sun, May 22nd,6 p.m. Our Annual Women’s Banquet, entitled “Divine Design” will feature guest speaker, Janet Paschal, an elegant dinner and a special gift for every lady attending. Tickets must be purchased in advance and the cost is only $12.00. Call the Bobbie Hensley (530) 218-7059 for details. Campership Ice Cream Social First Presbyterian Church, Marysville May 22nd, 12pm after worship in Huston Hall You are invited to come and enjoy a delicious bowl of ice cream with lots of toppings. Campers are raising monies for campership. Donations accepted. Who can resist a bowl of ice cream right! Faith Christian High School Senior Baccalaureate Service First United Methodist Church Y.C. Sun, May 22, 3 p.m. Come celebrate with us as we speak blessings and affirmations over our senior students. Faith Christian Kindergarten Graduation First United Methodist Church Y.C. Tuesday, May 24, 2011 - 7:00 p.m. Faith Christian Elementary Year-End Program Hope Point Nazarene Church Y.C. Thursday, May 26,2011 - 7:00 p.m. Annual awards are presented, music presentations and celebration. Everyone is welcome. Faith Christian High School Senior Commencement Ceremony First United Methodist Church Y.C. Friday, May 27, 2011 - 7:00 p.m. Graduation ceremony-keynote speaker is FCS School Board Member, Linda Hall. Everyone is welcome. Faith Christian 8th Grade Graduation First United Methodist Church Y.C. Saturday, May 28, 2011 - 3:00 p.m. Reception immediately following ceremony with display of student photo collages.
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
ENTERTAINMENT/MEDIA A Peek At My Bookshelf Recommended Reading by Deena Peterson
“Delirious: My Journey with the Band, a Growing Family, and an Army of Historymakers" ponsored by Martin Smith with Craig Borlase
I've enjoyed their music, but to be honest, I've never thought much about the journey, or about the people who make up the band. In an enjoyable and easy to read book, front man Martin Smith takes on the journey that is "Delirious". "Delirious" performed together for seventeen years, but the journey began long before that. Martin shares his early days, beginning as an infant with a lifethreatening disease and how God answered his parents' prayers, to the time he met and fell in love with his beautiful wife, Anna. Along the way he shares from his heart, giving us glimpses into his relationship with Jesus, his thoughts on worship, and his heart for the lost. As lead singer for the band, Martin takes us on a world tour, so to speak. He shares about the concert that broke his heart and opened his eyes to suffering and poverty around the globe. His heart for missions is huge, and his passion is infectious. Martin also shares about his family and his struggles to make music, touring, minstry and family all work together. You'll also read about his decision to leave Delirious to minister at home more. "Delirious" contains ups and downs, valleys and mountaintop moments, and successes along with a few failures.
S
by
Some inspiring posts found on Facebook
When it comes to parenting how can the days be so long yet the years so short? ~ Unknown
We tend to be devoted, not to Jesus Christ, but to the things which allow us more spiritual freedomthan total surrender to Him would allow. ~ Oswald Chambers christian books & gifts
646 Plumas St., YC 530-673-6188 www.crosspointebooks.com
$3 Off!
It is important to start right, but it is imperative to end well. ~ William Culbertson
Peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God. ~ J. Oswald Sanders
Worry is making a down payment on a problem you may never have! ~ Joyce Meyer
Featured Book (with this ad) thru 5/31/11
Genuine, honest and vibrant...three words I'd associate with "Delirious", the book. I found Martin's story engaging and it left me with a lot to think about. Even made me want to pull out my Delirious cd's for a fresh listen! Whether you're a fan of the band or you're just discovering them, I think "Delirious" is worth the read. Happy Reading! Deena Peterson An Independent Reviewer Totally Dependent Upon Jesus!
For more book reviews by Deena visit deenasbooks.blogspot.com
Newcastle Yuba City
9093 Old State Hwy Newcastle, CA 95658
off the “wall”
916-663-4116 530-751-2238
1397 Colusa Hwy Yuba City, CA 95993
Gas prices... everything through the roof....Ugh!! (The list goes on) Scripture: Rejoice in the Lord and again I say rejoice... How? Think it through...Prices are high - but I have a car... No car: Bus... No bus: I have feet and can walk... It is so easy to focus on the bad... When we have sooo much to be grateful for! HE will meet ALL our needs - and then some! ~ Joan Smith Greatest man in History, named Jesus, had no servants, yet they called Him Master. Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet he conquered the world. He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was... buried in a tomb..., yet He lives today ~ Unknown Since the curtain is torn from top to bottom, don't dawdle in the courtyard of the temple, run for the altar. ~ John Piper
Select used quality Christian books now available at JJ’s Tools 980 Gray Ave, YC (next to Brocks) The Ambassador
7
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
POLITICS/CULTURE The Book The Publishers Wouldn’t Print A Queer Thing Happened To America - By Michael Brown (Editors Note - I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Brown on The Ambassador Radio Show a few weeks ago. It will be available on our website soon. The book is a definitive volume on the subject and an important work for someone serious about understanding this issue and the problems resulting from it.) Forty years ago, most Americans said they didn’t know anyone who was homosexual and claimed to know little or nothing about homosexuality. Today, there’s hardly a sitcom without a prominent gay character, movies like Milk and Brokeback Mountain have won Oscars, and even People Magazine celebrated the marriage of Ellen Degeneres and Portia DeRossi. Forty years ago, the word “queer” was considered to be an extremely insulting, ugly slur. Today, we have books like Queering Elementary Education and The Queer Bible Commentary, while Queer Eye for the Straight Guy was a cable TV sensation and even school children are learning the meaning of “Gender Queer.” Forty years ago, people were fired from their jobs for being gay. Today, college professors have been fired for taking issue with same-sex practice, counselors have been dismissed for refusing to affirm gay and lesbian relationships, and even pastors have been arrested for saying that homosexual behavior was sinful. A Queer Thing Happened to America chronicles the amazing transformation of America over the last forty years, literally, from Stonewall Inn to the White House, and addresses the question head-on: Is there really a gay agenda, or is it a fiction of the religious right? Written in a lively and compelling style, but backed with mas s ive res earch and extens ive interaction with the GLBT community, this forthright and yet compassionate book looks at the extraordinary impact gay activism has had on American society from nursery school to college, from the pulpit to Hollywood, and from science to semantics - also analyzing the foundational arguments of the gay civil rights movement and exposing the extreme intolerance of those calling for tolerance. This could easily be the most controversial book of the decade. Read it
8 The Ambassador
and find out why the publishing world was afraid to touch it. From the back cover: From a conservative pundit: “Book publishing is a difficult business now, and no media is willing to promote a book that opposes homosexuality. . . . Economic self-interest is going to make it very tough for a publisher to say yes.” From a conservative publisher: “There would be a very concrete, though difficult to measure financial penalty to pay for publishing your book. . . . Practically speaking it could actually destroy the firm . . . .” From a bestselling conservative author: “Honestly, there is no NY publisher . . . who will touch this manuscript.” From the head of a New York City publicity firm: “Unfortunately [he] spoke with his team and he doesn’t have anyone willing to take on Dr. Brown’s book.” From a publishing insider: “I’d be better off burning the money in my fireplace. . . . The economics of publishing a book like this are bleak.” From a top literary agent who farmed the manuscript out to a number of major publishers: “Most thought the material was too controversial....all felt that the title would need to be changed.”
I LOVE IT WHEN WE EAT RIBS. THEY REMIND ME OF YOU.
Adam made the same joke every time they ate ribs. Eve secretly hated it.
Please Patronize Our SPONSORS & ADVERTISERS.
They keep the presses rolling!
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
RESOURCES
The Sinner’s Prayer Greg Koukl - Stand to Reason - Str.org
Over the years I've become increasingly concerned with one tactic of some well-intentioned ambassadors for Christ: leading a person in the "sinner's prayer." It can be meaningful, but it has a liability. The prayer goes something like this: “Lord Jesus, I am a sinner. I believe You died for my sins so I could be forgiven. I receive You as my Lord and savior. Thank You for coming into my life. Amen.” Now, the prayer itself is fine. I prayed a version of it in 1973, initiating my own walk with Christ. I’ve used it since to assist others in expressing their faith for the first time. On occasion, though, I notice something alarming. When I ask if a particular person is a Christian, the response I hear is, “Well, they prayed the prayer.” It’s as if the words were magic; if someone just recites them, they’re in. I fear we’ve inoculated a whole generation of people who got a partial injection of Christianity and are now resistant to the real thing. They prayed the sinner’s prayer, got their “fire insurance,” and then disappeared, never to be seen again. When confronted with the Gospel anew they shrug, “Been there, done that. Now leave me alone. I have a life to live.” Here’s the antidote: The goal of an ambassador should never be getting someone to pray a prayer, but rather to follow Jesus. When we emphasize deciding for Christ instead of living for Him, we often get spiritual miscarriages instead of spiritual births. Our sense of safety can’t come from simply saying a prayer.
So the next time you lead someone to Christ, consider bypassing the sinner’s prayer. There’s no precedent for it in the Bible anyway. In the New Testament, baptism served the function of heralding one’s entry into the Body of Christ. Rather, enjoin the one who is spiritually hungry to satisfy his appetite day by day by following the Savior. Give him some guidelines on how to do that. Tell him about prayer, fellowship, and Bible study. Instruct him in forgiveness, regeneration, and justification. Don’t let him forget, though, being born again is the beginning, not the end.
The goal of an ambassador should never be getting someone to pray a prayer, but rather to follow Jesus.
Sign up for the
Ambassador Email Update News, Events, Contests & More
Stay “In the Loop”
PRAYER continued from cover One day each year, the first Thursday in May, we recognize prayer as a nation. This May 5th, thousands and perhaps millions of people will gather together to pray. We have several opportunities to gather this year beginning with the annual National Day of Prayer Breakfast which will be held at the Church of Glad Tidings at 7am. Other activities are planned throughout the day (see sidebar for schedule) This will be a day to exchange our arsenal of opinion, argument and accusation, for spiritual weapons against the enemy of our souls, who seeks to kill, steal and destroy. Let’s come together to praise, worship, and petition the God of all Creation, through the Holy Spirit, in the name of His Son Jesus. If we don’t, we just might lose that right too!
Send your email address to editor@ambassadornewspaper.com
What will your kids do this summer??? How About a Great Summer Camp, Performing Arts and Ministry Opportunity that is Loads of Fun and Christ-centered? Faith Christian Schools and the Award-Winning FCS Players 14th Annual Young People’s Summer Theatre Program Hit the Stage with One of Two Great Productions:
Doctor Dolittle! -OR- THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE!
The Aurora IPL with Radiofrequency More Advanced than Laser! Permanent Hair Removal
All skin colors • All hair colors Fotofacial Technology
Brown or Age Spots • Redness Broken Blood Vessels Jenine L. Tanabe MD Dermatology 414 G Street, Suite 204 Marysville Call 743-0301 for a free Aurora consultation and ask about our packages and specials
For 14 Years the Sacramento Region’s Premier Summer Drama Camp!
Daily Theatre, Voice and Dance Training! Classes: June 13 - July 16, 2010 Monday – Friday, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm Produced by Paul and Anne DeMeritt w Ages 7-18 w All Levels of Experience Welcome! w Lots of Great Parts for Boys and Girls! w Quality Musical Theatre Training from Dedicated Professionals! w Theatre Games! w Daily Devotions and Snacks! w Safe, Supportive Christian Atmosphere! w Be a part of an Exciting, Professionally Produced Production in July!
Performances: July 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 - 7:30 pm Saturday Matinee, July 16 - 2:00 pm Spaces are filling fast! Call 530-674-5474 for More Info, Or Download an Application at www.fcsplayers.com!
The Ambassador
9
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
RESOURCES
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
For What Saith The Scripture? Short Lessons From The Greek New Testament By Pastor Michael A. Carling - Free Grace Baptist Church
The Offense of the Cross A Disturbing Precedent in Italy By: Chuck Colson
Last month, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Italian public schools have the right to display crucifixes. The case has been widely viewed as a crucial one. As Roger Kiska of the Alliance Defense Fund put it, “A loss in this case would have meant, in essence, that it would be illegal under the European Convention on Human Rights to have religious symbols in any institution anywhere in Europe.” Before you start celebrating, though, you ought to know that this may be a very mixed blessing. When you take a close look at the court’s reasoning, it becomes clear that there are some disturbing implications to this ruling. In the New York Times, Professor Stanley Fish, a liberal relativist, writes that the court based its decision largely on the idea that “the crucifix is really not a religious symbol.” Fish justifiably asks, “Who knew?” Who, indeed? It seems the court decided that the crucifix is now an “identity-linked,” “historical and cultural” symbol -- a symbol that stands for “the liberty and freedom of every person, the declaration of the right of man, and ultimately the modern secular state.” In other words, it stands for pretty much anything but the death of Christ for the redemption of fallen mankind. For the Christian, that poses a real dilema: If the crucifix is to be stripped of its meaning like this, is it worth displaying in schools, or anywhere at all? If “the offense of the cross,” as Paul put it, is gone, what’s the point? And that’s not all. The court went on to state, “In Christianity even the faith in an omniscient god is secondary in relation
to charity,” which makes the cross an inclusive symbol. Even Stanley Fish, who’s writing from a liberal, secular perspective, is driven to wonder about all this. “What we have here,” he says, “is a union of bad argument and bad theology. As a Christian virtue, charity presupposes the God it is said by the majority [of the court] to transcend...Generous though it may be in many respects, Christianity is hard-edged at its doctrinal center and that center is what the crucifix speaks.” Fish may not be a Christian, but I think he’s pretty much nailed it. Ironically, I think he might just understand it better than many in Italy, where the practice of the Christian faith has been steadily eroding for many years. Christians believe that everyone is welcome at the foot of the cross -- but we also believe with German martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer that “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” That’s why Stanley Fish is right in saying that a crucifix can never be what the court called “an essentially passive symbol.” On that point, I wholeheartedly agree with him. Religious symbols matter because they convey meaning, and that’s why we Christians support the right to display them. Without that meaning, without Christ’s death and resurrection, the cross doesn’t matter -- and neither does our faith. This is the liberal cause: strip all sacred symbols and words of their meaning. The real lesson here is that before we take up the fight for the cross, we had better be sure we understand what it is we’re fighting for.
In Acts 1:15-26, we find the account of the replacement of Judas in order to bring the number of our Lord’s apostles back to twelve and to fulfill that which was written in Psalm 69. Two individuals were appointed, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. In vs. 24-25 we read,
“And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, that he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.”
Listen to
Note the words “which knowest the hearts” in vs. 24. These words are translated from one word in the Greek. That Greek word is kardiognw/sta which is a compound of kardi,a {kar-dee'-ah} “heart” and ginw,skw {ghin-oce'-ko} “to know.” In their prayer for the Lord to reveal to them which of these two men He had chosen, they addressed our Lord with the title of “heart-knower.” Indeed, the Lord Jesus Christ is the “heart-knower” of all men.
The
Ambassador Radio Show Hosted by Seth Halpern NEWS INTERVIEWS DISCUSSION
Fri. 5pm repeated at 9pm and Saturday at 7pm
KCYC
-LP
104.7
Thurs. 5pm
ENCOUR AGING WORD R ADIO
repeated at 9pm and Saturday at 5pm
Taking Back Christianity with Sean Blount & Dave Kugelman
Discussing important issues of faith and culture
www.Ambassadornewspaper.com 10 The Ambassador
Listen to Bob Fromm on The Encouraging Word weekdays at 9:01am & 7:05pm
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
COMMUNITY
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM CBA MARKETPLACE MONTHLY
Do You Have Faith For “Faith Night?”
E C N A I L ESS AL
by Dave Kugelman The Christian Business Alliance and the Ambassador Christian Newspaper will (once again) be sponsoring “Faith Night” with the Gold Sox on Friday, June 17th. Dave Dravecky who used to play with the San Francisco Giants will once again be the guest speaker. Dave has a powerful testimony that he will be sharing regarding salvation and allowing God to work in the most difficult circumstances in your life. For those who remember, Dave spoke three years ago at the end of the Gold Sox game. Unfortunately over 50% of the crowd left before Dave spoke. This year Dave will speak before the game allowing everyone present to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We Need Your Help! The sponsorship for Faith Night is normally $3,000; however the Gold Sox
reduces that rate each year to $1,500 which the CBA has paid. This year the CBA does not have the financial resources to pull this off so we are asking for 15 CBA members to donate $100 each to pay the sponsorship fee. As of this writing, we have two people committed leaving 13 more donors needed to step forward. Please consider helping us fund this incredible outreach event. Many in attendance may be hearing the Gospel message for the first time. To donate or for more information contact David Kugelman at 632-9292. Kug is the president of the Christian Business Alliance which meets each Tuesday at noon at various locations. To be included on the weekly emailing lists, contact Seth Halpern at editor@ambassadornewspaper.com.
“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news” Isaiah 52:7 Can you help bring “Good News” to our community? The Ambassador needs volunteers to help deliver to locations throughout Yuba, Sutter, and Butte counties. If you can help once a month for an hour or two, please call The Ambassador at 530-933-1385 or email editor@ambassadornewspaper.com
Business Printing & Checks P O orma by Kug Logo Design Presentation Folders SCREEN PRINTING EMBROIDERY PENS, MUGS BUSINESS
STATIONERY
Shirts / Jackets / Hats (screen printed or embroidered with your logo)
Call For Quote
530-742-2423
& FULL LINE OF
BUSIN
“Building Up Christians, Lifting Up Christ”
Calling All Followers of Christ!
The Christian Business Alliance would like to invite you to our midweek meetings
Current members: A-1 Carpet Cleaning - (530) 673-3634 - www.a-1clean.com Maria Altizer- Live Oak Collision Center - (530) 695-1818 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 Brent Davis - Davis Family Insurance - (530) 671-2764 Christi Dutcher Jon Fullerton - Sierra View Mortuary - (530) 742-6957 Shelley Gallagher - Gallagher Ranch Larry Geweke - Larry Geweke Ford-Kia - www.geweke.com Debbie Gilstrap - Sierra Central Credit Union debbie_gilstrap@hotmail.com Pamela Givans - Breakaway Theater Productions Marcos Gonzalez - Ultimate Business Maintenance - (530) 671-1564 John L. Guth - AttorneyEstate Planning - www.johnguthlaw.com Seth Halpern - Ambassador Newspaper - editor@ambassadornewspaper.com David Hobbs Painting - Cont. Lic#880562 (530)742-2428 Marilyn Hoffman - Associated Brokers - (530) 682-1930 Bill & Cassandra Hoon - A Better Yard Care - (530) 788-5899 Rodney Hick Brad Indelicato - Dolco Packaging - bdi26@comcast.net Dean Ingraham - Retiredrandd54@syix.com Bill Jens - Yuba Sutter Healthy Marriage Project - (530) 671-6069 Dave & Robin 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 Ronda Putman Becky Reimers - A Woman’s Friend - (530) 741-9136 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 Jim Whiteaker - Sutter County Supervisor - jwhiteaker@co.sutter.ca.us
PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS David & Robin Kugelman - Owners -
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
www.proforma.com/kug
The Ambassador 11
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
COMMUNITY Testimonies of God’s Grace Connie “My name is Connie. As soon as I learned that Jesus loved me and died for my sins I invited Him into my heart. Unfortunately, my home was a very scary place where my alcoholic Dad became violent when he was drunk. Instead of learning about God’s love, forgiveness and peace, I learned rejection, fear and shame. As a teenager, I turned away from God to the things of this world, only to find so much more of the same. As an adult, I tried to be the best Christian wife and mother I could possibly be! We went to church off and on, but I always put everything else before God – my family, my home, my career – I lived life my own way on my own strength. It’s no wonder that when my son was killed in a car accident on Thanksgiving Day of 2002, all the faith and strength I had died along with him. I thought, Okay, God! If you’re not going to take care of my kids, what else are you not going to do? So rather than turning to God when I needed Him the most, I turned to drugs and alcohol again. Only this time I tried Methamphetamines. I was hooked instantly! Sin begets sin – this addiction took me to some of the darkest places you could ever imagine! I came so close to
Sign up for the
losing my life but for the grace of God I finally got desperate and prayed to God for a way out. He told me if I would let go of everything and step out in faith, He would plant my feet where He wanted me to go. I had no idea He would lead me to Teen Challenge. I had believed so many lies about myself and God, but now I know that if I believe and trust in Him, there is nothing I can do to make Him love me any more – or any less. Jesus already did it all on the cross. I finally realize that the death of my son was the fire of God testing my life. There was nothing left because it was all wood, hay and stubble. Most people don’t get an opportunity to see that until it’s too late, but God is giving me a second chance to build my life upon the Rock. God is so merciful! A couple of months before my son died there was an altar call where the Holy Spirit tarried until he went forward and accepted Jesus as his Savior. I came so close to spending eternity apart from God and my son, but God is faithful even when I am faithless. It is my desire to live out the rest of my life His way in His strength. I want to thank everyone for, providing me this wonderful opportunity to know Jesus’ resurrection power for my life.”
Ambassador
Email Update News, Events, Contests & More
12 The Ambassador
Stay “in the Loop” Send your email address to
editor@ambassadornewspaper.com
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
Sponsor Spotlight Jan Duke Jan Duke & Associates, Re/Max Gold Years in Business: 7 years Slogan: Protecting the Rights and Credit of Real Estate Clients Years in Yuba-Sutter Area: 20 years Hobbies: Golf, Reading Favorite Quote/Verse: Proverbs 3:13-15. The man who knows right from wrong and has good judgment and common sense is happier than the man who is immensely rich. For such wisdom is far more valuable than precious jewels. Nothing else compares with it. Wisdom gives: a long, good life, riches, honor, pleasure and peace. Inspiring Persons: President Ronald Regan "Hot Button"/Passion: Helping people. Previously as a counselor of families with troubled teens, and now as a Realtor, I help homeowners through short sales. Every real estate transaction today faces challenges. I love working through them to a happy conclusion. Home Church: Hope Point Nazarene Why do you support The Ambassador? This is the Christian community and we can speak the truth about our faith in Christ without concern that a contrarian view will be tomorrow’s letter to the editor. I like to see Christian businesses represented and prefer to do business with a Christian. Message to the Community/Other Comments: I’m very excited to be traveling to Israel with my sister for several weeks this summer. As a Christian community, I believe we have failed to stand united with Israel. May 15 is Christians United For Israel Sunday, a single day for thousands of churches around the world to unite in prayer and action in support. In 5 years this organization has grown to over 500,000 strong.
Please visit: www.facebook.com/ChristiansUnitedforIsrael Consider subscribing to The Torch, the magazine that provides timely information about Israel and the Middle East and the Muslim religion.
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
OPINIONS
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
Gay History 101 By Jon Skillman
“But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the deepest of the sea.” Matthew 18:6 During the Massachusetts gay marriage debate and later in California’s campaign for proposition 8, some folks expressed concerns about unforeseen ramifications of gay marriage. One such concern was that public schools would be required to teach children that the gay lifestyle is a viable and acceptable alternative. Now, I seem to remember those who expressed such concerns were labeled bigots and mocked as homophobic fear mongers. Well surprise, surprise! In this morning’s paper what to my wondering eyes did appear… “Bill Mandates Gay History.” Yikes! Who could have seen that one coming? And guess what? This bill, when enacted, will join six other such gay mandates already entrenched in our public education code. I wonder, how many laws does it take to turn a lie into the truth? In the article it explained how this bill is needed to curb bullying. Wait a minute… is being bullied the exclusive domain of the homosexual? I think not. Besides, I’m pretty darn sure a gay history class isn’t going to keep big Bruno Magurski from pummeling little Melvin Snivley. Hey, here’s a novel idea: Why not teach civility, ethics, respect, and, dare
KCYC
-LP
104.7
ENCOUR AGING WORD R ADIO
I say it, morality? The article goes on to argue; schools teach African-American, HispanicAmerican and Asian-American history. While this is true, I’m not really sure Gaysian American qualifies as a race? I don’t mean to be flippant here but why do they persist in trying to equate homosexuality with ethnicity… Homosexuality is not a person it is a behavior. Jesus commands us to love one another, and yes, I believe He means everybody. He does not, however, command us to condone or except sinful behavior. What I find particularly disturbing about this whole thing is a number of “Christian Churches” seem to be in direct opposition to God. The California Council of Churches, for example, actively campaigned against Proposition 8. When I asked why they would do such a thing they simply stated, “because we don’t think homosexual behavior is really sinful.” Really? Well, God sure does! In fact His Word is pretty darn explicit on the matter (see Leviticus 18:22, and Romans 1:24-27). God defined sin and we are not afforded the luxury of redefining it to fit our particular ideology. And I believe churches that preach such doctrine are doing a great disservice to their congregations. Jesus warns in Matthew 18:7, “Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come.”
The Ambassador Radio Show
www.ambassadornewspaper.com WE NOW RAIN DO ALSO TTERS GU
A BETTER YARD CARE
H A N DY M A N WORK
Commercial & Residential
• Lawn Care • Sprinkler Repair • Weed Removal • Pruning • Trimming • Clean-ups CALL HOON FAMILY GARDENING
Office (530) 673-3722 Cell (530) 788-5899
License #66287 Liability Insured
The Ambassador Ministry would like to thank the following people for their Individual Sponsorship Kay Andrus Michael Barrett Marty Brown Warren & Lucy Campbell Pamela Givans John Imler Brad Indelicato Hope Ithurburn
Sandi Juri Sue Kochi Jim & Darlene Myers Maria Paras Bud & Linda Preston Mimi Robarge Jon & Pat Skillman Art & Mary Ann Whitten
God Bless Each of You for your support of this ministry and our community
If you would be interested in supporting The Ambassador as an Individual Sponsor ($15 - $20/month) please contact Seth Halpern at: editor@ambassadornewspaper.com or call 530-933-1385 or visit us online at www.ambassadornewspaper.com
The Ambassador 13
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
OPINIONS
WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
God’s Design; One Accord
AS WE SEE IT
By Patti Navarro
What if the entire church, known as the body of Christ, was merely diverse in purpose? What if, when we looked at denominations, we could see God’s purpose rather than the apparent division that seems to exist? Maybe if we looked with a different set of eyes we could see that being in one accord is more than attainable. It’s all in our heads. But remember, God can work miracles. Since Jesus gave us the example of His church actually being His body here on this earth, He being the head, let’s look at this differently. People throughout time have split from one another because of disagreement in doctrine opening another church because they think “those guys” have it wrong. However, have you ever considered that God has actually utilized that flaw in our human nature to gather us in segments based on the diverse purposes of His body? It can’t be stressed strongly enough—we need each other! If the church, known as the “body”, was all knees, how would that body operate? Diversity is not necessarily division. What if the Baptists were merely the toes of the body? Toes are certainly an absolutely necessary part of the feet. Without toes, there is no balance when the body needs to walk from here to there. The Baptists emphasize memorization of Scripture and the fruit of the Holy Spirit. That is the epitome of balance. The Bible is the plumb line for all doctrine, interpretation of doctrine and deciphering God’s will for one’s life. Thus being an internal balance for the body as well as an external one as it moves forward in ministry to the world.
Pentecostal or Charismatic denominations emphasize the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Some of the gifts include hospitality, tongues, interpretation of tongues; prophesy, the working of miracles, etc. While the Pentecostal or Charismatic churches emphasis is on the gifts and manifestations of the Holy Spirit, as well as the offices held by individuals to keep the body healthy, and the Baptist’s emphasis is on memorization of scripture and the fruit of the Holy Spirit, they both have very distinctive purpose. Those purposes are to be met within that same body, known as the church. We a r e A L L o f u s , e v e r y denomination, non-denomination, individual group whose members profess that Jesus is the Christ, God come in the flesh, the son of the living God who died for our sins and raised again, ALL of us… We are ALL in this together. We need to iron our wrinkles, un-spot our garments and be busy getting ready for our Savior’s return! Jesus is coming for a church wholly without spot or wrinkle… Better get those irons out and iron out your differences! Get back to walking in His light so the blood of Jesus can wash you and bleach out those spots… He’s coming soon! This article is meant to challenge your thinking and challenge any prejudices that may lie within you, so that you can identify them and see them for what they are; the work of the devil. Division is one of the highly-used devils tools. He uses lies, hurt, stubbornness and bitterness to bring it about. If you haven’t done so already, come out of agreement with the devil today!
Squeaky Cleaners Cleaning/Janitorial Services Business/Residential Floor/Carpet care Light/Deep Cleaning
(530) 743-2363 “If it doesn’t squeak, it isn’t clean!”
14
The Ambassador
In Praise of Black Ice By Seth Halpern
Seth Halpern - Editor
Many years ago when I lived in New Jersey, I was driving home after an evening church meeting during a bitter winter storm. I was about to enter the highway when I spun out on some black ice and found myself completely turned around going the wrong way at the edge of a steep embankment. After my heart decelerated back to normal and I let out a huge exhale, I saw that I was now facing the sign for the highway entrance to the opposite direction. I was getting ready to make a U-turn when I looked at the sign again and realized that this “opposite” direction was actually the correct way! Even though black ice is not at the top of anyone’s “fun list”, this usual obstacle forced me to go in a different direction- the right one! Oftentimes, temptations, distractions and obstacles in our lives come from either the world, our flesh, or the enemy of our souls in an attempt to throw us off course. However, there are times when these “alleged” obstacles are really God’s protection and/or provision for us. Sometimes we innocently wander off track and something like black ice spins us around and shakes us up to change directions. Sometimes, as in
the story of Jonah, it’s not so innocent but rather a rebellious nature. Although, we are stubborn enough to choose the wrong road, I’m grateful that God loves us enough to keep us on the right one. I certainly could have chosen to ignore the signs (both the spiritual one of the ice, and the natural one at the highway entrance) and gone back in the direction. Do you have obstacles in your life? Could it be a sign of God’s love encouraging you to change directions? Just like black ice, our obstacles may be scary and we ask that it be removed, but sometimes they are a gift from God to lead us on the right road home.
Pruning Removals Topping Trimmings Fire Clearance Stump Grinding Cabling • Firewood Sod • Sprinklers Insect Spraying/Injecting TREES Yard & Gutter Cleaning Lawn Maintenance
Big T’s
Lic.# 69861
PO Box 802 • Yuba City • 95992 Tom Harris, Owner • Serving Northern CA
Selena Bisby- Owner/Operator
Fully Insured P.L. / P.D. / Worker’s Compensation State License# 918402 • City License# 67038
Senior & Military DISCOUNTS
Specializing in Hazardous Work
530.237.6743 www.BigTsTrees.com
10% discount when you mention this ad
The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties
AMBASSADOR WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM
MARKETPLACE
FINANCIAL/INSURANCE
LANDSCAPING
KLOTZ Mobile Detail
DWAYNE TANABE
A BETTER YARD CARE
LOVING CARE
(530) 315-3272 rob.klotz@yahoo.com
“We can help free up your weekends!”
Business Services (530)846-3335 dkennethtanabe@msn.com
In Home Registry Serv. Inc. Licensed Nurse/Companion Care
MONROE TRANSMISSION
HOBBIES/ENRICHMENT
Taxes-Bookkeeping &
General Yard Care & Maintenance
“..make you a new heart & new spirit” (Ez 18:31)
Cassandra Hoon
530-592-4010
Son Light Glass
Big T’s Tree Service 530-237-6743
Leaded, Stained, Mosaic & Fused Classes, Supplies & Custom Designs
Tree trimming * removal * stump grinding www.bigtstrees.com
Don Monroe 1397 Colusa Hwy Yuba City 530-751-2238
530-673-3722
530-755-6602
DAVE GREENETZ CONSTRUCTION INC.
HOME MAINTENANCE
www.greenetzconstruction.com
JJ's Discount Tools & Merchandise
REMODELING
682.9602- lic.# 452975
HILBERS INC. CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS 1210 Stabler Lane, Yuba City www.hilbersinc.com 530-673-2947
JENINE L. TANABE MD DERMATOLOGY 414 G Street, Suite 204 Marysville 743-0301 PETS
GOT JUNK? PINTARELLI FAMILY HAULING & CLEAN UP *Trash & Debris Removal *Move in/out *Rental & Foreclosure Cleanouts *Handyman & much more *lic. & ins.*Very Dependable*Reasonable prices
Call Mike Pintarelli : 530-701-6726
Country Vet Clinic, Inc 4839 E. Butte Rd, Live Oak "Treating all creatures Great and Small" Jerry Long, DVM & Assoc.
New & Used Tools Buy - Sell - Trade
530-755-4129
Squeaky Cleaners Residential/Business
“If it doesn’t squeak, it isn’t clean!”
Richard’s Tree Service 530-673-7993 Certified Arborist www.richardstree.com Lic. 608859
Jesse's Pet Grooming "Where Your Pets Are My Passion"
717 Sutter St., Yuba City
635-5921
Lic# 69861
Selena Bisby
(530) 743-2363
PROFORMA BY KUG Dave Kugelman Promotional Products www.proforma.com/kug 530-632-9292 FINANCIAL/INSURANCE
DAVIS FAMILY INSURANCE & FINANCIAL SERVICES A Farmers Insurance Agency Auto-Home-Life-commercial-Blue Cross 1650 Sierra Ave Suite 202A - YC 95993
530-671-2764 #0F27435
TB Banducci’s Plumbing Inc
Excellent Massage Care
Residential/Commercial/Service
“A Touch Like No Other”
Tony Banducci – 32yrs exp.
Brenda Banducci 530-701-4847 397 Del Norte Ave, YC
(530)701-7079
www.tbplumbinginc.vpweb.com lic #609982
Yuba City Pest Control P.O. Box 2, Yuba City, CA 95992 Ph. (530) 755-2555 Fx. (530) 755-4672 "Quality Service Guaranteed"
eXfuze Seven+ botanical supplements: acai, fucoidan, goji, seabuckthorn, noni, gac, mangosteen
Robert E. Stark
674-0345, stark@otnusa.com
List Your Business Here!
"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."
Impact The Community AND
Reach New Customers. Advertise your business in The Ambassador Marketplace!
530-933-1385 editor@ambassadornewspaper.com
The Ambassador 15
In Loving Memory of those who served
You and Your Family are Invited to
Army Air Corp
1st Lt William F Jens Pilot shot down over Germany in WWII
Major Duane W. Dively Died 6/22/05 while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom
James E. Ellis, USN Master Chief 9/26/1921 - 12/17/2009 Served in WW2 George Lairson 10/17/1940 - 3/28/2011 Marines Albert Rhoades 3/15/1940 - 3/6/2011 Army Eugene Synak 4/19/1925 - 3/16/2011 Marines WWII Terry Delozier 12/16/1943 - 3/2/2011 Army William Leach 9/8/1925 - 3/21/2011 Army James Waggoner 10/24/1939 - 3/27/2011 Army Frank Arnoldy 1/5/1926 - 2/6/2011 Navy WWII Joe Don Stewart 8/7/1923 - 2/16/2011 Air Force WWII Myron Svoboda 9/16/1933 - 2/20/2011 Army Herman Dewitt 1/10/1920 - 2/20/2011 Army Barrett King 11/30/1937 - 12/26/2010 Army Charles Forsythe 3/28/1928 - 12/16/2010 Navy WWII
Memorial Day Tribute May 30, 2011 9:30 am seating 4900 Olive Avenue Olivehurst, CA (530) 742-6957
PRESENTATION OF COLORS American Legion Post 807
VFW Post 4095
NATIONAL ANTHEM INVOCATION Pastor Al Jolley SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS SPECIAL EVENTS American Legion & VFW will lead a procession to the Garden of Valor American Flag area Laying of a Wreath in Honor of Fallen Military Personnel Beale Air Force Base Color Guard Taps Jet Fly-over Retirement of Colors For More Information Please Call (530) 742-6957 www.sierraviewfh.com
Fred Evans 11/15/1925 - 11/9/2010 Army Major Charles Thomas Bruce World War II Charles Neuerberg 9/8/1922 - 9/23/2010 Army WWII Lester Standiford 11/8/1924 - 9/27/2010 Army WWII Edgar Gee 8/18/1921 - 10/15/2010 Air Force WWII Korea POW Charles Thompson 5/10/1924 - 10/17/2010 Air Force Olivia McCommas 10/23/1972 - 7/31/2008 Air Force Clarence Wayne Bailey 6/12/1923 - 4/6/2002 Army WWII Sam Head 1917 - 1988 Army WWII William T Record 10/6/1918 - 2/5/1995 Army WWII Leroy Tyler 9/14/1936 - 4/9/2009 Army Wallace McClain 9/26/1933 - 2/18/2011 Army David L. Dobbs 5/29/1924 - 4/19/2011 Marines WWII Herbert K. Vierria US Army WWII Jack Frye Special Forces (POW) Viet Nam