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Unity in the Body of Christ
THE ECUMENICAL DREAM The ecumenical movement is defined by The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church as “The movement in the Church towards the recovery of the unity of all believers in Christ, transcending differences of creed, ritual and polity”. The modern ecumenical movement is generally understood to owe much to the evangelical revivals of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, which so powerfully crossed national and denominational boundaries. However, the ecumenical and the evangelical movements through the twentieth century took very different
paths. Put simply, though I do not believe unfairly, the focus of the ecumenical movement has been on visible unity of an organizational kind. The focus of the evangelical movement has been on the gospel, which both unites and divides. The difference expresses two profoundly different understandings of Christian unity. As you read the articles inside this January issue of America’s Good News we pray that you would develop a better understanding of what it means to be united as One Body in Christ.
UNITY IN THE CHURCH Good News Publishing USA 5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley, CA. 94561
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
THE UNITY OF THE CHURCH
By Linda Sizuela I recently came across a story of division in a church in Okalahoma City. This Christian church had been united for some time when they decided to paint a mural of Adam & Eve in the Garden of Eden on a huge wall outside the entrance to the sanctuary. It was to be beautiful and quite detailed. Only the most capable and astute artist would do. This church had a dedicated Pastor and the people were eager to come to church on Sunday mornings, including the children. As the drawing took on its own lovely depiction of the greatest story ever told about the beginning of life, the people excitedly cooed and
nodded to one another weekly as the mural became reality. Finally it was completed and the congregation stood in the foyer in amazement before the unfolding of brilliant colors, life size Adam & Eve dressed in fig leaves, and a snake in the tree with its slithering forked-tongue and beady-eyes. It seemed that one could walk into life’s history right there and
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Angel Food Ministries Coming to East County Pastor Carleton & Angela Booker Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, nondenominational food cooperative committed to providing food assistance to families throughout the United States. Angel Food was founded in 1994 by Pastors Joe and Linda Wingo and their family with the intent of helping their neighbors in Northeast Georgia where many textile mills had closed. See full story on page 11
Minister’s Heroic Stand For Integrity Every man seems to have a price. This writer is constantly amazed at how cheap one can buy a man or woman’s integrity. That is, except for Rev. John Anderson, who runs the Bay Area Rescue Mis- Rev. Austin Miles sion in Richmond, a homeless shelter with 325 beds. See full story on page 5
Holiday on Ice ........................ 2A Woman to Woman ........ ......... 3A World News ............... ........ 6A Don Huntington ......................... 7A
School of Theology ......................... 8A Women of Worth .......................9A Chaplain Johnny Jones ................13A Events Calendar ...........................16A
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America’s Good News
Unity IN the Church cont. become a part of God’s word. Eve’s long lustrous hair hung over her shoulders down to the ground as she offered her mate a bite of the forbidden apple . . . absolute perfection in every detail. Oh! Wait! Something is wrong! They have no navel! What, no navel? Oh, my god, they have no navel! Of course, there must be a navel. “No! cried out another, “They didn’t have navels. They never had an umbilical cord. God formed them from dirt and a rib, remember?” “Well, they look stupid with no navel. I want a navel on each of them.” “No, I don’t agree. They must not have navels.” “Wait a minute guys, I cannot be connected with a church that would have a
picture of Adam and Eve with no navel. I won’t!” A child looked up at his mother and said, “I think Adam should have an outie like me.” Another child wanted to know who were Adam & Eve’s parents? The startled congregation began to move from one side to the other as they chose to stand with those they agreed with, and there was division in the church. I don’t know if Adam & Eve had bellybuttons, and I don’t care. I am sure that their children had them and that God created the children as much as He did Adam & Eve. It is quite extraordinary what people find to be the utmost importance in belonging to God’s Church, and too often the reasons are not biblical. We don’t like someone in the church, the color painted on the church, the
Pastor is divorced. We don’t like Communion on Wednesday night, or the women wear too much make-up. They don’t meet “my” needs. Service begins too early in the morning. Not one of these reasons meets the requirements of God. We deprive ourselves and hurt our Heavenly Father when there is no UNITY in the church. Unfortunately, unity does not abound in the church these days as it should. People disagree and cause division over unimportant issues. Eph. 4:3 “Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace.” To build unity is one of the Holy Spirit’s roles. He leads, but we need to be willing to follow. Col. 2:2 “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so
IT’S BACK AGAIN IN BRENTWOOD! DON’T MISS
Holiday on Ice!
that they may have full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.” 1) A church must set an example for the world by being united in Christ’s Word. 2) Unity helps us cooperate as a body of believers as God meant us to, giving us a foretaste of heaven. 3) Unity renews and revitalizes ministry because there is less tension to zap our energy. Living in unity does not mean we will agree on everything; however, we must agree on our purpose in life, which is to work together for Christ. Our outward expression of unity will reflect our inward unity of purpose. PSALM 133:1 HOW GOOD AND PLEASANT IT IS WHEN BROTHERS LIVE TOGETHER IN UNITY!
The beautiful couple pictured below is Dirk Davis and Lynn Roberts. They are a blessing to the community both on and off the ice with their hearts bringing joy to all those who would come to know them. Lynn’s passion and experience is truly of the figure skating world. Having competed for the LA Figure Skating Club for 10 years of her younger life, she later taught for Ice Capades Challet in Orange County. Lynn has also skated as Cinderella at the Disney Park in Anaheim, while in her Junior/Senior years attending college at CSU Fullerton. Dirk Davis grew up in Concord and is a 28 year resident of Brentwood. He owned a cement business until about 10 years ago. But through all of the changes Dirk is still in the concrete/asphalt business which has been his trade for 30 years or more. His construction expertise and fortitude has made this seasonal ice rink a reality in East Contra Costa County.
Bless you both for bringing great family entertainment to the Delta region!
Dirk and Lynn STREETS OF BRENTWOOD PRESENTS
Open November 14th - January 10th Come and ice skate on a magnificient, twinkling light-filled ice rink protected from the elements by a gigantic outdoor tent! Truly a spectacular winter wonderland experience! Families and friends will meet at Brentwood Holiday on Ice! This is the “Coolest” place to be at The Streets!
Hours of Operation: Mon, Tues, Thurs 2:00pm - 9:00pm Weds & Sun 12:30pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday 12:30pm - 10:30pm
Holiday Hours Daily 12:30pm - 10:30pm Thanksgiving Day 12:30pm - 5:30pm Christmas Eve 10:30am - 5:30pm Christmas Day 12:30pm - 5:30pm Newe Years Eve 12:30pm - 9:30pm LEARN TO SKATE CLINICS Youth... Ages 5 - 15 Saturdays 10:30am - 12:00 noon Adult... Sundays 10:30am - 12:00 noon Clinic Cost $20 per student
Price of Admisssion $10 Skate Rental $5 Skate Pass Pricing (w/Skate Rental) 3 Session Skate Pass $40 10 Session Skate Pass $125 Skate Pass Pricing (No Skate Rental) 3 Session Skate Pass $25 10 Session Skate Pass $80 Private Ice Parties $500 Per Hour Before and after normal business hours Includes a 50 Skater group party.
Additional Skaters $10 each.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available NOW!
www.BrentwoodHolidayOnIce.com Ice Rink Phone Line 925.513.1702
Mayor Bob Taylor at the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Photos courtesy: Tim Vaughn & Sal Castaneda
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America’s Good News
Pastor Susan Holmes By Susan Holmes Psalm 133:1 reads, “Behold, How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Romans 15:5-7 says, “Now may the God Who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and Who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may (unanimously) with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). Welcome and receive (to your hearts) one another, then, even as Christ has welcomed and received you, for the glory of God.” Each one of us mothers understands full well the frustration of having children who constantly bicker and fight with each other. We know the embarrassment of having our children display jealousy, anger, selfishness, disobedience, or any other characteristic that misrepresents us as good parents to others. We know that others will judge us by the behavior of our children. This fact is sometimes sad but very true! How many times have
Woman To Woman we told our children, “Don’t act like that, others are watching you!” The same is true for our Heavenly Father, my dear sisters and brothers. We are to represent Him and His character to the world around us. When we bicker, fight, judge or display any attitudes of disunity, we are not representing the true nature of our Heavenly Father and His family correctly to others. The truth is that when we don’t walk in God’s love to one another in His family, we are showing that we are still spiritually immature and need to grow in the fruits of Holy Spirit. When we truly mature in the love of Christ we will display the nature and character of God. Remember a tree is known by its fruit, whether good or bad. True unity in the family of God is birthed out of His love in and through us and is good fruit. Disunity in the Body of Christ is sibling rivalry and is birthed out of our old selfish nature, which is bad fruit. We are being watched, individually and corporately. Each one of our personal lives is being watched and each of our churches are under the
“UNITY IN THE FAMILY OF GOD”
watchful eye of others. The question is: How do others judge our Heavenly Father by our representation of our Lord Jesus Christ? The heart of God for His children here on earth is for them to come together in unity to lift up the name of Jesus and to find ways to minister together to others. Then believers will display the answer to Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21, “That they all may be one, (just) as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be one in Us, so that the world may believe and be convinced that You have sent Me.” We need to choose to let go of anything that separates us from loving each other. We can choose to disagree agreeably. We are told to conform to the image of Christ Jesus, not each other! True unity is an attitude of the heart, not in us being identical cookie cutter cloned Christian robots! Our Father loves variety. Just look at the beautiful wonders of His creation around us. What would our world look like if the majestic sky said to the powerful ocean, “I don’t need you?” Or if the
mighty redwood forest said to the much needed apple orchard, “you are nothing?” Then why should we say to one brother or sister in the family of God, I am not in need of you? Each one of us was created for a divine purpose and plan. When we each fulfill the reason for our creation, we shine as radiantly as one bright shining star amongst the glorious cluster of heavenly entities to be seen by all mankind to testify that there is a God who can be seen through His wondrous creation. Let’s continue to come together in the Spirit of Unity, as One Body of believers to lift up the Name of Jesus and be His hands of love extended to our families, other churches, communities and our world! I pray that we as the family of God represent our Heavenly Father well! (All Scriptures are from the Amplified Version of the Bible)
America’s Good News
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UNITY IS A FACT Let us keep it and live it!
BY WILL BYRNS From the Editor’s Desk
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eflecting back to the time when I was first born again and still a new believer, I would always ask these questions; “why are there so many denominations?” And, “do all of the different denominations have separate doctrines when it comes to gospel foundations?” This curiosity burned inside of me because I was hungry for the real truth. Why are other churches different from the one I go to? What do they really believe and why is my church the ‘right church’ for me? After years of reading the Bible and being strengthened by mature Christians surrounding me, I now can answer all of those perplexing questions that I had as a new Christian. The Lord had me on the right path from day one as a new believer. Why? Because it goes back to what I said about being “hungry for the real truth.” If we are going to worship the one true living God and devote our lives to Him, then we should do all we can to know who He is and what the truth of His word tells us. It only makes sense, right? It saddens me to know that there are growing numbers in this world that are
being led astray with the ‘Universalism’ message of ‘all roads lead to heaven.’ The multitudes of young believers are being taught to believe manmade rules that you won’t even find in the Bible. The Apostle Paul clearly addresses this in the book of Galatians. (No Other Gospel) I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! Galatians 1:6-8 This unity of the church is a fact. Thus the Spirit declares, “There is one body;” not, “You must create one body.” The unity of the church is not to be created by us, for it is a gift of God’s sovereign grace. Instead, the church is called to “keep” the “unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3). The Body of Christ needs to keep the
unity of the Spirit and battle against the darkness that is in the world today. The church cannot be so naïve in not recognizing that we are in a time of spiritual warfare. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 I want to encourage you today to search the scriptures and find the truth of the gospel. Do not be led astray. Do not be thrown into confusion. When we stand together on God’s truth, no weapon formed against us shall prosper. We can move mountains when we come together in agreement on the scriptures. If you want to see a revival in the Delta Region and beyond like never before, let
it begin with you, understanding the truth of God’s word. When that takes place you will love your brother as the Bible commands us, and not work against your brother in Christ by being judgmental. In 1John 4:19-21 you will find in the scriptures that the love of God and our brothers cannot be separated. “Whoever loves God must also love his brother.” Let the words of John 17:23 come alive in your life as a believer. Stay united and ‘Tell the World that Jesus Lives.’ John 17:23 “I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
John 17:23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
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America’s Good News
CCMC IS BACK! 2010 Don Huntington Coming in January to the Contra Costa Ministers Conference Wednesday, January 27th, 2010 The Nines at Brentwood Golf Course Cost $20.00 100 Summerset Dr., Brentwood 11:45 AM to 1:30 PM
Don Huntington, editor 110° magazine “Put Your Whole Self In.” Don Huntington is a dynamic speaker, a professional ghostwriter and the Editor In Chief of 110° Magazine. On January 27th Don will be speaking to us on the topic “Put Your Whole Self In.” When I asked Don what that was about, he replied: “The only way to make life worth living is to throw yourself with complete abandon into the tasks and challenges that come to you; to „put your whole self in‟ to whatever you do, moving at a full gallop down the pathways of your life. A sold-out life begins with vigorous relationships as you become good for yourself, good for others, and good for Heaven’s sake. Engage completely in life. “Run with perseverance the race that is set before you,” the Bible says; or, as The Message translation paraphrases it, “Strip down, start running—and never quit!” Join in on the fun as our local biographer throws himself completely into the task of motivating and inspiring the CCMC community on January 27. If you are in ministry or any area of community outreach and would like to attend, contact Ron or Pat Reagan at 925-240-1242 or email pmreagan11@comcast.net Please RSVP by January 22nd.
Psalm 96 1 Sing a new song to the Lord ! Let the whole earth sing to the Lord ! 2 Sing to the Lord ; praise his name. Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. 3 Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does.
SEEDS FOR THE SOWER “Father,” cried a boy, “the rubbish is on fire!” “Put a hose on it,” he shouted. But the fire kept burning, and he asked, “Did you put the hose on it?” “Yes,” said the boy, “but it burned too.” The father didn’t make it plain. But our Lord made this plain. He said, “I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me.” He’s not a way, but the only way. Jesus alone is the way to God. In Him alone we have access to God. He alone can lead us into the presence of God without fear or shame. Come to God through Him, won’t you?
MILESTONES
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BY REV. AUSTIN MILES
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Minister’s Heroic Stand For Integrity Shows Unity With God
by rev. Austin miles Every man seems to have a price. This writer is constantly amazed at how cheaply one can buy a man or woman’s integrity. That is, except for Rev. John Anderson, who runs the Bay Area Rescue Mission in Richmond, a homeless shelter with 325 beds. His is a compassionate ministry which provides for the needs of the downtrodden. With caseloads increasing due to the economic crisis, the mission is constantly in need of funds. Not enough, however, for Rev. Anderson to sell his integrity. Richmond is a city that is struggling with constant violence, crime, and murder. It was the scene of a recent gang rape of a 15 year old girl who had gone to a high school dance. Richmond’s problems can be solved, said the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians to the board of supervisors, by building an Indian casino at Point Molate. This will give the city a new look, generate income for the city as well as providing employment in the community, which will reduce crime. A tidal wave of opposition slowed the procedure until the tribe met again with supervisors and gave them specific figures about how much the city,—the county and the state would be given each year, (in the millions) which would pay for improvements, security etc. To deal with their opponents, they also promised huge amounts of money each year if the measure passed, and this included charity organizations like Rev. Anderson’s Bay Area Rescue Mission. Slight pause for this observation: Gambling consists of games of chance (they say). So [if] it is by chance, how would the casino operators be able to state the exact amount of money, in the millions, that they could pay out if the measure passed? The operators know for certain that a casino like the one proposed would take in over a billion dollars a year (their profit). They know that for fact. So is it really a game of chance? Or is it rigged to only pay out so much money? Just remember that those fancy hotels and glitzy casinos were not built by you winning! Rev. Anderson went to the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors where the measure would be discussed. He brought with him some clients of his shelter whose lives had been ruined by gambling. They testified that they had lost everything to gambling and wound up on the streets. They told how easy it is to become addicted to gambling. Lisa Vorderbrueggen, writing for the East County Times reported that nearly every opposition group has, or is negotiating a lucrative deal with the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians. Then, she writes, “behind the scenes, casino proponents have urged Rev. Anderson to meet with the tribe.” He told them that he would not accept money from Indian casinos, “since gambling goes against the principles that we believe and stand for.” He went on to say, “We were not angling for money. We see the devastation that would come about as a result of a casino like the one proposed.” And it appears that he is the only organization that rejected the proposed pay off. Complications began two days after Rev. Anderson took his heroic stand. The Contra Costa Health Department suddenly showed up to inspect the facility. An inspector showed up a day or two later. When Rev. Anderson asked why the inspector was there, he blurted out that his visit was routine, “not the result of a complaint.” The inspector said it, not Rev. Anderson. Why of course, that visit, two days after he testified before the County Board of Supervisors, was purely coincidental. Then the County Health Department demanded upgrades inside the shelter that would cost Rev. Anderson, $45,000. And this is a time when donations are down11 % and their expenses are up 18%. A tip of the beret to Rev. John Anderson of The Bay Area Rescue Mission, who stayed true to God and himself. He is the rarest of men….a man who cannot be bought. A minister of integrity who would never offend God. He is totally devoted to the ministry God has entrusted him with. His pure actions resulted in this headline in East County Times (11/22/09): “Shelter Denounces Casino Cash.” We need more ministers like John Anderson. He demonstrates the ultimate unity-unity with God To see my review of an excellent book which lays out clearly the gambling game, google, “Gambling-Don’t Bet On It.,” visit my website by going to: www.revaustinmiles.com
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America’s Good News
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National Religious Leaders Release Historic Declaration on Christian Conscience
World News Briefs Courtesy: Onenewsnow.com
Evangelist Oral Roberts dies in Calif. at age 91 Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) - Evangelist Oral Roberts, who rose from tent revivals to found a multimilliondollar organization and an Oklahoma university bearing his name, has died. He was 91. His spokesman A. Larry Ross said by phone from Carrollton, Texas, that Roberts died Tuesday Dec. 15th of complications from pneumonia in Newport Beach, Calif. He had survived two heart attacks in the 1990s and a broken hip in 2006. Roberts overcame tuberculosis at age 17, and credited that triumph with leading him to become one of the country’s most famous ministers. By the 1960s and ‘70s, the Oklahoma-born Roberts had reached millions around the world through broadcasting, publications and personal appearances. Oral Roberts University, chartered in 1963, became a Tulsa landmark. Evangelist Billy Graham, who just turned 91 himself in early November, describes Roberts as “a man of God and a great friend in ministry.” Graham recalls that he invited Roberts to speak at an evangelism conference in Berlin in the 1960s, and that during a telephone conversation a few weeks ago Roberts told him “he was near the end of his life’s journey.” The respected evangelist says he looks forward to the day he will see Roberts again in heaven.
WASHINGTON, D.C., Press Conference Unveils 4,700-Word Statement Signed by Some 150 Orthodox, Catholic & Evangelical Leaders
WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 20, 2009—Today a group of prominent Christian clergy, ministry leaders and scholars released the Manhattan Declaration, which addresses the sanctity of life, traditional marriage and religious liberty. The 4,700-word declaration issues a clarion call to Christians to adhere to their convictions and informs civil authorities that the signers will not—under any circumstance—abandon their Christian consciences. Drafted by Dr. Robert George, Dr. Timothy George and Chuck Colson and signed by more than 150 Orthodox, Catholic and evangelical Christian leaders, the Manhattan Declaration was made public at a noon ET press conference held in the Lisagor Room at the National Press Club.
Manhattan Declaration A Call of Christian Conscience
Christians, when they have lived up to the highest ideals of their faith, have defended the weak and vulnerable and worked tirelessly to protect and strengthen vital institutions of civil society, beginning with the family. We are Orthodox, Catholic, and evangelical Christians who have united at this hour to reaffirm fundamental truths about justice and the common good, and to call upon our fellow citizens, believers and non-believers alike, to join us in defending them. These truths are: 1)The sanctity of human life 2)The dignity of marriage as the conjugal union of husband and wife 3)The rights of conscience and religious liberty. Inasmuch as these truths are foundational to human dignity and the well-being of society, they are inviolable and non-negotiable. Because they are increasingly under assault from powerful forces in our culture, we are compelled today to speak out forcefully in their defense, and to commit ourselves to honoring them fully no matter what pressures are brought upon us and our institutions to abandon or compromise them. We make this commitment not as partisans of any political group but as followers of Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen Lord, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The main points of the declaration are listed above. To see the full declaration, or to sign the declaration, go to www.manhattandeclaration.org
Finding hope during Allie Martin - OneNewsNow unemployment
A Colorado-based ministry is helping those affected by tough economic times. Biblica, formerly known as the International Bible Society, has launched a downloadable online resource called Employing Hope: Rebuilding Life When You’ve Lost Your Job. Find them online at: www.biblica.com. The resource features 20 short scripture readings and devotionals and an introduction that addresses the reality of unemployment while giving hope through God’s Word. Sue Hyde, outreach director for the ministry, says there is a common theme to the site. “[It’s] that God is still in control and that he cares for them, and he’s walking this path with them,” she suggests. “Each reading includes applicable comments to introduce the scripture text we’ve chosen for those readings, and then a time of reflection questions to help people think and not just gloss over the issues that they’re facing.” The online resource also features tips on balancing a household budget and ways to serve others and have a more economical life. It can be downloaded as a PDF file, or it can be emailed. “We are experiencing an economic crisis unlike anything most of us have been equipped to handle,” Hyde states in a press release. “People need hope and encouragement to remain emotionally and spiritually strong in these tough times. Our hope...is that they’ll use these resources and find them helpful....”
Great Pick Up Lines. In a day and age when all you ever get are sensational headlines and celebrities with their trashy bad behavior, it’s nice to know there is a magazine that covers inspiring stories about real people and real issues in our communities.
“The One site for your News right Now” Your Latest News From A Christian Perspective
Whether it’s a story about prayer in public schools, workplace restrictions on Christians or battles for biblical truth within our denominations, the American Family News Network (AFN) is here to tell you what the newsmakers are saying. AFN is a Christian news service - with more than 1200 broadcast, print and online affiliates in 45 states and 11 foreign countries - that exists to present the day’s stories from a biblical perspective. We not only feature the latest breaking stories from across the United States and around the world, but also news of the challenges facing Christians in today’s society. At OneNewsNow.com, you will get your news from reporters you can trust to give the latest news without the liberal bias that characterizes so much of the “mainstream” media. For a refreshing and informative change in where you get your news, log on to OneNewsNow.com.
Pick up a copy today, and smile.
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SENIOR MOMENTS
America’s Good News
SENIORS AND HUNGER
PUT YOUR WHOLE SELF IN
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BY DON HUNTINGTON
BY PRISCILLA STANLEY
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From time to time we all need a ‘Helping Hand’
Recently our church outreach ministry ‘Helping Hands’ provided Thanksgiving dinners for the needy and prepared approximately 250 takeout meals for a senior complex in our area. The next week I was told that the seniors were overjoyed by the meals. Some cried, and said they were now able to have a real Thanksgiving meal. In some cases, it may take a lot of talking and patience to be allowed to deliver a Thanksgiving dinner to certain senior facilities. With one particular facility, we were almost denied the opportunity to lend a helping hand and provide food for seniors in need. This should not be. Why prevent a church from providing much needed food to seniors? The reason was ‘they might talk about God.’ But what they seem to forget is that America was founded and built upon the foundation of our heavenly Father. When did we become a country that allows what our forefathers fought for get to the point that God is a problem? God is the solution to our needs and salvation. There are many non-profit organizations in our country that provide food, clothing, shelter and even jobs to the needy under attack. The Salvation Army has helped so many Americans for years. The Salvation Army is known as one of the largest providers of social welfare in the world. They have one and a half million members in one hundred and eleven countries. They are respected in those countries, but what about our country? They face opposition for doing what God expects us to do for those in need. Jesus tells us to feed the poor and give drink to the thirsty. He says that what we do for the least of his people we do for him; Mathew 25: 37-40. We are called to feed the hungry, to battle poverty and suffering. Poverty and starvation were common in Jesus’ day, and even today there is still far too much of it taking place around the world. Our call to help the starving remains relevant. Jesus taught that when we do good deeds for the weak and downtrodden, it’s as if we are helping Jesus himself. Here, he makes it clear that he values kindness done to a stranger and to those who struggle to make ends meet. Feeding the hungry and helping the poor are incredibly basic acts of service, but they’re integral parts of the Christian life. Those who serve the needy here on earth will find that they have been serving God as well. Many may say, ‘where is their family,’ Is that really the point? For me the most important point is seniors are going hungry. These seniors built our country; many fought in the wars for our freedom and helped establish programs to take care of those in need. They are now in need and find it difficult to receive it. We live in the world’s most bountiful food producing country. The number of seniors who suffer from hunger in the United States is growing rapidly, according to The National Council on the Aging (NCOA). President and CEO of NCOA, James Firman said, “seniors who experience hunger are at risk for serious health problems.” Hunger can be life threatening to seniors. Statistics show that hunger increases the risk for stroke, aggravates pre-existing illnesses, and limits the efficiency of many drugs. It also increases depression which more than seventyfive percent of seniors seventy and over suffer from. According to the USDA, more than three quarters of a million Americans over 65 and living alone have difficulty providing themselves with a steady supply of food and experience some degree of hunger. I am so thankful that the managers of the senior housing complex finally opened their hearts to allow us in. We can now provide them weekly with food, clothing and a little conversation. I would like to acknowledge Safeway Foods, Food Max and Panera Bread for helping us with our food program. We are now affiliated with Angel Food Ministries where seniors can purchase prepared meals at a reasonable price. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those wonderful people who also donate clothing to Helping Hands ministry. Helping Hands isn’t just for seniors, they help anyone in need.
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Keep Yourself in the Pink of Health
Refuse to be ill. Never tell people you are ill; never own it to yourself. Illness is one of those things which a man should resist on principle. (Edward George Bulwer-Lytton) One of the evidences of remaining completely engaged in life is to become too busy and having too much fun to worry about circumstances in the world that I can’t do anything about, or even to worry about the condition of my body. I heartily applaud Bulwer-Lytton’s prescription for health and have practiced it myself for years. Plato made the comment, “Attention to health is life’s greatest hindrance.” He was right! I just don’t have enough time to worry about whether I’m starting to come down with something or wondering if I should engage in some preventive health measures. I’m thankful every day for my good health. I may be dead of some dreaded disease by the time anyone reads this but, if so, I will have gone out by ignoring the condition as long as possible. Fretting about the state of my health — whether I am coming down with something or whether I should be dosing myself with some medicine or vitamin supplement…, now that would be a nightmarish way to live. The other thing I refuse to be concerned about is the condition of the times I live in. Ralph Waldo Emerson made the profound observation, “This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it.” And he lived through the Civil War! As with everything else in life, my response to such things as health and the condition of the world around me all comes down to my attitude. Of course, terrible things are going on in this “veil of tears” — problems with poverty and the environment that I need to fight against. But none of these evils has the power to overthrow my internal experience of joy and even delight. Heaven teaches me every day what to do with my time, to use terms from Emerson’s quote. Anybody brought by a time machine from Emerson’s world into ours would think that he or she had been transported to a paradise. Things like indoor plumbing, modern hospitals, the Internet, air conditioning, air travel, the interstate highway system, malls, Walmarts, DVD players, and hi-definition TVs would seem to belong to a heavenly level of existence. What’s wrong with us, that so often we are not able to receive with delight the wonderful gifts our technological society has given us? The problem — my problem — comes down to the fact that if my life is untouched by grace, I will be miserable even if I live in a time and place providing Aspirin and flush toilets. Helen Keller enjoyed her life though she was both blind and deaf. My grandmother laughed her way through cancer and terminal rheumatoid arthritis. Billy Graham maintains a smile on his face while dying of Parkinson’s Disease…. My friend who was undergoing chemo for serious cancer, kept cheerfully working and playing in between the times he is in the bathroom throwing up. And somewhere it says that Jesus, himself, died “for the joy set before Him.” I refuse to be concerned about my health. I’m going to enjoy the good things that come to me as a citizen of America in the 21st Century. I will enjoy the products of all this marvelous technology without making any sacrifice for them! I’m in the pink of health living in the best of times. A principle of grace is infecting my attitudes in both of these areas. Try This 1) Whenever you begin to worry about your health, look around you and make mental note of five things that make your life pleasant. 2) “Count your many blessings; name them one by one.”
America’s Good News
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Priscilla M Stanley, Broker
New Sunday Evening Spanish Service at Mountain View Christian Center
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Using God’s laws to help create an environment to educate our clients as they transition into their homes.
Pastor Edbar Martinez
Nuevo Servicio en espanol, los domingos en la tarde en Mountain View Christian Center Cada domingo a las 5:00 p.m. 'Ven y ve lo que Dios puede hacer en tu vida". Estas aburrido de la misma rutina?. Ven y experimenta un "Nuevo comienzo" y siente La Presencia de Dios. Estoy emocionado acerca de este nuevo ministerio, y lo que significa amarnos unos a otros; crecer y construir relaciones uno a uno y especialmente con nuestro Dios Padre. Acompananos y unete a nuestra familia, para un tiempo de alabanza y compartir, a la vez que aprendemos acerca de la Palabra de Dios. Nos encanta divertirnos, disfrutar y conocernos unos a otros. Y cada mes nos juntamos y tenemos una pequena fiesta. Estamos seguros que tu no te lo quieres perder!!!. Te esperamos cada domingo a las 5:00 p.m. En Mountain View Christian Center. 5000 Amaryllis Street, en Oakley
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SEEDS FOR THE SOWER Abe Lincoln wasn’t a handsome man. He often joked about his homeliness. Once, in a debate, Douglas, a rival, called him “two-faced.” Lincoln turned to the crowd and said, “I leave it to you. If I had two faces, would I be wearing this one?” But there are some who have two faces. They’re saints abroad, but devils at home; they’re fair without, but foul within. You’ll find hypocrites in commerce as well as in church. But there’s one place where you’ll not find hypocrites – in heaven. The Bible says, “The hypocrites’ hope shall perish.”
Pastor Edbar Martinez
A big sale was in progress, and the department store was swarming with bargain hunters. In the confusion a little boy ran over to the Lost and Found Department, sobbing, “My mom’s lost!” But he, not his mother, was lost. How many others are lost, and don’t know it? Something’s lost when it’s in the wrong place. And you’re lost because you’ve wandered away from God. But you don’t have to find Him. He has come to seek and to save you. You’re just a step from Him. That step is turning around. Turn around, and you’ll find yourself in the arms of the seeking, loving God.
every Sunday at 5Pm Are you bored with the same old routine? Come and experience a new beginning and feel the presence of God’s hand moving in your life. I’m excited about this new ministry and what it means to love one another, grow and build relationships with one another and our heavenly Father. Won’t you please come and join our family for a time of worship and fellowship as we learn the word of God. We love to have fun and enjoy ourselves so we make sure to get together each month for a fiesta. We meet every Sunday- 5pm at Mountain View Christian Center, 5000 Amaryllis Street in Oakley, CA. Call 925.625.9570 for more info.
Colossians 3:14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
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2 Timothy 2:15 “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
School of Theology President Pastor Tyrone Holmes
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The School of Theology is a comprehensive 22 course program that enables students to start and pursue a Biblical education based on a foundation of Biblical studies. Students will have the opportunity to graduate from the School of Theology and then continue their education towards a Bachelor of Biblical Studies Degree. The goal of the School of Theology is to equip men and women of God to develop and use their spiritual gifts for the work of the ministry in the Body of Christ.
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America’s Good News
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WOW
! y a D a r o f s Princes Left - Pastor Kim Moreno, interviewing Christine and Colleen at the Women of Worth gathering.
Left to Right - Christine Rivera and Colleen Hasenpusch share testimony with the Women of Worth.
Pastor Kim Moreno with a young Woman of Worth
By Gina Dacus About a month ago, Pastor Kim announced that a Princess for a Day would be selected by those that wished to submit a letter of nomination. The Princess of the Day would not need to belong to Mountain View Christian Center. The chosen Princess for a Day would be picked up in a limousine along with the person that nominated her and be driven to the Cabanas in the Garden in Brentwood for a day of pampering and spa treatments. While at the spa, the woman’s house would be cleaned and her refrigerator stocked. Gifts of jewelry, a Diamond Hills Gym membership and a number of gift cards were also included. At December’s WOW, a video clip was shown where the nominator, Christine Rivera shared her nomination letter. Most of us have witnessed video clips on television describing a particular incident or situation. However, the video clip illustrating Christine’s testimony about the person that she nominated was powerful and moving. The nominated woman had overcome much in her life and still desired to pursue God despite her circumstances. The woman nominated represented many of us in the room at various times of our lives. She was a woman of God and because she still stood in faith at the end of her trials, God had proved that she was more than a conqueror. The winner for the Princess of the Day was Colleen Hasenpusch. After the presentation, Pastor Kim shared a message about David from 1 Samuel in Chapters 27 – 29. As she stated, “No matter what the enemy does to set you up, God’s word said that the Lord is a restorer of stolen property”. In this story, David thought that he lost his family and property because they were stolen, but not destroyed. In these passages, God was faithful to David. In the end, David was able to claim what was stolen by the enemy as well as the enemy’s property. There was a process that David used in his obedience that Pastor Kim shared. 1. Don’t try to get your stuff back before the Lord
Pictured all around Women of Worth enjoying the friendship, food and free prizes.
2. Don’t get ahead of the Lord. 3. Get on your knees when everything is gone. 4. Before you go and look for your stuff, get on your knees for instruction from the Lord.
WOW lifting their hands in worship to the Lord.
Author Gina Dacus
Some of you reading this story may be wishing that you could be Princess for a Day. Your own story of surviving and pressing through your storm may qualify you. Some may be going through a situation where you feel all is lost and you will never recover. Yet, I know from personal experience that God is able to give you a Princess for a Day experience if you let him. Despite what has happened in your life, I challenge you to seek the Lord in the midst of your situation. Seek God like you expect him to move in your life. Go into your prayer right now with the mindset that God is your provider, your healer and your restorer. We all have an opportunity to be a Princess for a Day because the word of God is full of promises. The word of God says that we are heirs to the kingdom, a royal priesthood and a chosen generation. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). In order for you to partake in the delightful experience, you have to first be willing to surrender, be transparent, and trust God who is more than able to pamper you from the inside out and from head to toe. Be blessed!
Romans 15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, Ephesians 4:3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:13 Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
America’s Good News
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Teen Missions Int. shares Christ through nutrition Mission Network News Teen Missions offers nutrition seminars for mothers to teach them how to properly care for their babies. (MSH photo) Zambia (MNN) ― In a country already ravaged by HIV/AIDS causing hundreds of thousands of children to be orphaned, ancestral worships customs threaten to kill thousands more. Teen Missions International has 15 rescue units throughout Zambia, providing aid since 2002. However, among the Ushi tribe and other people groups, they have developed another ministry to help dispel lies, geared toward mothers. For generations, these people have practiced ancestral worship, or witchcraft. They believe that when children are ill at birth, they are possessed by evil spirits and cursed. Kathy Vanderpool with Teen Missions says, “When children are born, many of them don’t survive. And that could be because of lack of food or medical issues. If they are not well, they are immediately taken to the witch doctor. Usually it’s difficult for them to survive, so they continue to be sick.” The witch doctors place charms on them, and the mothers hope their children will improve. However, when the babies continues to get worse, they again return
to the witch doctor, who is unable to give the babies the proper care they need. That’s why Teen Missions has set up nutrition seminars to teach mothers the correct way to care for young children. Vanderpool said the country does provide some basic care for moms when children are born, such as shots. However, the mothers’ seminars are the only programs aiding the mothers with nutritional information. At the seminars, mother’s are taught about the importance of a clean water sources and what food they need to give their babies for proper nutrition. For many babies, it is the difference between life and death. “It’s a real need, and the facilitators have an opportunity to share Jesus Christ through nutrition and the health classes they have. They also have a Bible study with moms when they come for this nutrition seminar,” Vanderpool said. In fact, one mother brought her baby to Teen Missions for prayer and healing. “And the Lord was gracious and healed that baby,” Vanderpool said. News of the event spread to other young mothers, and soon they were bringing their babies to Teen Missions for healing, instead of the witch doctors. Through this, Teen Missions has been
able to share with their mothers the salvation message and introduce them to the true Healer of their children. It costs $4,000 to continue these seminars for a six-week period and fund the units across Zambia. Consider donating today by going to their website at www.teenmissions.org. Also, pray for more mothers to come to the seminars and for blinders to be removed from their eyes that they see the truth of Jesus Christ.
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America’s Good News
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Angel Food Comes to Contra Costa County Feeding America One Box at a Time Over 18 Million Served Oakley, CA Staff report Pastor Carleton and Angela Booker are the co-directors for a new ministry outreach to the people of East County called ‘Angel Food Ministries.’ Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, nondenominational food cooperative committed to providing food assistance to families throughout the United States. Angel Food was founded in 1994 by Pastors Joe and Linda Wingo and their family with the intent of helping their neighbors in Northeast Georgia where many textile mills had closed. Beginning with 34 families, today Angel Food Ministries proudly serves hundreds of thousands every month. “We can’t possibly reach everyone,” said Pastor Carleton Booker. “But there are other churches in surrounding communities that can reach their area. If a church in Pittsburg partners up with us they can bless families close to them that need this food program. I want to bring churches together to fulfill the need that Jesus talks about in Matthew 25:35.” For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. (NIV) Pastor Carleton also noted, “We are one of the many
fingers in this large food network. We are just a distribution point and churches can come from anywhere to pick up food; from Concord, Bay Point, Walnut Creek or right around the block from us in Oakley. We are blessed to be a part of Angel Food and help meet the need in the community.” “Most food programs that I have seen don’t usually give you meat, but with Angel Food you can feed a family of four a balanced meal for a week for thirty dollars, said Pastor Carleton. “In this day and age we have seen unemployment on the rise and people need help in feeding their families. We are not out to proselytize anyone or take anything away from major local stores. This is a relief program for the community and people in need.” Angela Booker was very enthusiastic about the program and offered her insightful thoughts… “This is high quality food and I especially care about the children being fed a nourishing meal. You can use food stamps with this program and they even have prepared seniors meals available with Angel Food. It’s an awesome ministry that cares for people and offers hope through the gospel message of Christ.”
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MORE FACTS ABOUT ANGEL FOOD Through its food distribution program, Angel Food Ministries also donates money back into churches and community groups nationwide. In 2008 alone, it donated $5.2 million back into more than 5,000 communities, and over $20 million since it was founded. Providing a hand up not a hand out! Angel Food was founded on the principal of helping out neighbors and friends in times of need. Every month, Angel Food creates a tasty menu that consists of both fresh and frozen food items. Because of our buying power and low overhead we are able to sell a box of food directly to you for just $30! That’s a cost savings that will help you expand your food budget every month. One box of food assists in feeding a family of four for about a week or a single person for nearly a month. The food you find in an Angel Food box is of the same high quality one would purchase at a food retailer. There is no limit on the number of boxes an individual or family can purchase. Angel Food has no qualifiers and participation is open to anyone and everyone. Because Angel Food is a non-profit organization, if you or your organiza-
tion purchase food to donate to someone in need in your community, that gift may be tax-deductible as a charitable donation. Angel Food’s mission is to reach out to anyone in need. Angel Food crosses all denominational lines and works with churches and synagogues throughout the country. We also work with a wide variety of community groups such as the Salvation Army, the Boy Scouts of America, the American Red Cross, VFWs and many others. Our mission is to reach out to anyone in need! If your church or group would like to partner up or volunteer with us in providing food for the surrounding community; or if you would like more information about Angel Food Ministries, you can reach Pastor Carleton & Angela Booker at 925.625.9570 ext 226 You can also reach Angel Food Ministries at www.angelfoodministries.com .com
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America’s Good News
Sweet Toothed Christians By Kimberly Timmis Kennedy History tells us Christianity has its roots in great miracles and tremendous suffering. But people of today don’t want to think about the sufferings. People instead flock to the message of riches, goodness, love and peace. These sugar dripped messages are sure nice to hear, but they are far from the truth of many people’s lives. Can we have ideals, and trust the Lord for the best? Of course! But if we are to be honest with ourselves, reality is that the Bible says, Christians will be persecuted, and believers will suffer. You ask, “What about the Word of Faith?” “What about the Promises of God?” They still exist of course! But how long do you think it took for Job to be restored? It didn’t happen overnight. It took time. A great deal of time. John the Baptist, the cousin of Jesus was left in prison. Why did Jesus not deliver him from prison? He knew John was in jail, yet Jesus continued to perform signs and wonders. Did that mean Jesus abandoned John? No! But it is one
of those moments in History that we have to trust in the Lords divine knowledge and sovereignty. If we look at Isaac and Ishmael, we see that Abraham and Sarai were impatient. Sarai did not wait on God. She suffered shame, embarrassment and impatience. If she only waited on God and not try to enrich her life herself by having Hagar and Abraham create a child, history would be different. Sarai suffered, and could not trust God for His timing. She wanted to sweeten her life, her way and in her time line. If Sarai and Abraham saw the future and how their choices would impact the world as deeply as they do, they would not have seen their time without their child as a time of suffering. We want to sweeten our lives. But at what cost? Can we bear to hear the truth? Can we bear to be patient? The truth is that countless people have suffered for Christ. Take up your cross the Bible says. It does not say have someone
else hold your cross. The truth is that we will experience many seasons in our lifetime that may seem unbearable. But unless we experience the suffering of Holocaust victims or martyrs in third world countries, or the death of a loved one or significant physical impairment, we must put down the sugar coated message of gain without pain. If we feed on sugar, it sure is so tasty isn’t it! But just like getting cavities, it is not good to simply feed yourself a diet of words that have promises in them, if you are not willing to work these words into your life with action, diligence, effort, some tears and a healthy amount of sweat. Everything tastes better after a hard day’s work, and life will be much sweeter with diligence and action on your part, accompanied with the promises of God, prayer, obeying God, and a healthy dose of Job.
Psalm 133 How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! Isaiah 14:1 The LORD will have compassion on Jacob; once again he will choose Israel and will settle them in their own land. Aliens will join them and unite with the house of Jacob. Matthew 12:25 Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand. Mark 3:24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.
America’s Good News
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WHY CAN’T THE CHURCH COMMUNITY JUST GET ALONG
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By Johnny Jones ‘Why can’t we just all get along?’ The words of Rodney King a punch line now used for many jokes. It is that quote that I would like to borrow from in this month’s article. Why can’t all the people who identify themselves as true believers of Jesus Christ “JUST GET ALONG?” To answer this question we must look to the book of books, the bible. What does it mean to have unity as a church community? How do we achieve unity with so much cultural diversity and denominational differences? The first question to be answered is, ‘what is the church?’ The Old Testament book Ecclesiastes, the English title of the Greek and Latin translation of Solomon’s book, meaning “preacher” derived from the word ekklesia translated “assembly” or “congregation.” Both Greek and Latin versions derive their titles from the Hebrew title Qoheleth, which means one who calls or gathers. The church then is the ecclesia of God, His called out ones, those who have been set apart as His bride. In the Old Testament, Hosea tells us this; God betrothed Israel to Himself. God entered into a marriage covenant with Israel. Spiritually Israel became God’s bride people. There were three metaphors used to describe the nation of Israel. Israel was God’s bride, God’s vineyard, and God’s flock. All of them are repeated in the New Testament. We are Christ’s bride, we are the branches of which He is the vine, and we also are His flock of which He is the shepherd. Jesus boldly applies these very same metaphors to the church. There are four other metaphors used in the New Testament. God’s people are also a kingdom, a spear of rule. A kingdom is a dominion where YHWH GOD rules. We are also a household or a family. We are sons of God and brothers of Christ. We are joint heirs according to Romans Chapter 8, and brothers according to Hebrews Chapter 2. God has begotten us again into His family. He has adopted us. He has sent His Holy Spirit into our hearts whereby we call him Abba Father, which... in Greek means papa, a term of endearment or closeness. Thirdly, we are not only a kingdom and a household or a family, we are also a building. The church is a building. A building incidentally not made with hands, but a building nevertheless. Who is our foundation? Paul said, “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid which is Jesus Christ.” And we are built up on that foundation of the OT Prophets and NT Apostles, Jesus Himself being the Chief Cornerstone. Fourthly, we are a body, the body of Christ. And this particular metaphor has absolutely no Old Testament equivalent, none at all. The first three have major Old Testament equivalences. The second three in a minor sense alluded to the Old Testament. This one has no Old Testament allusions whatsoever. The concept does not even exist in the Old Testament. This is our unique position in Christ. We are the body of Christ. This is our single identity. We are not a building. We are not an organization. We are a spiritual building, not a physical one. We are the church. We are a Kononia.
THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE BY PRISCILLA
BY JOHNNY JONES
Philemon We are a communion. We are a fellowship of one body, the body of Christ. What do all these metaphors have in common? Every single one of them without exception emphasizes unity? We are one wife with one husband. We are one flock with one shepherd. We are one set of branches of one vine. We are one kingdom with one king. We are one family with one father. We are one building with one foundation. We are one body with one head, Jesus Christ. We are one. The message of the body of Christ is the message of one. You cannot take a physical body and put an arm here and a leg there and a head there and a heart there and a couple of feet over there and say, now body go do something. You cannot say to those disconnected members, pull yourself together and function. A body is a unit or it does not exist. It must be one. Paul says, “The physical body is one and has many functioning members. So the essence of a physical body is unity. We are one. “So also is Christ. For by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body whether Jew or Gentile slave or free, and have all been made to drink of one Spirit (1Cor 12:13). Being born of God’s Spirit is the beginning of genuine unity and love. By being placed in the body of Christ, we were indwelled by the same Holy Spirit. So the Spirit redeems us by faith in Christ, the Spirit actually does the work of regeneration. The Spirit regenerates us, places us in the body of Christ then comes to indwell in us. You say, does every Christian have the Holy Spirit indwelling? You better believe it. Romans 8:9 says, “If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.” There is no such thing as a believer who doesn’t have the Holy Spirit. That’s the point of our unity. We have one Spirit. He’s the same in me as He is in you, the same Spirit. I came to Jesus Christ, believed in Him, I was regenerated by the same Spirit and in the same way, placed in the same body by the same Spirit in the same way, indwelled by the same Spirit in the same way as you were. And therefore, our unity is in the Spirit. When a believer operates in the flesh he operates contrary to the functioning of the body, because the body must operate in the unity of the Spirit. Now, there’s no other way to get into the body of Christ, except to be baptized into the body by the Spirit. And there’s only one way to be baptized into the body by the Spirit and that’s to be redeemed by Jesus Christ. We all come one way by one Savior, through one Spirit, by one salvation and thus our unity begins in the body of Christ. We all came through the blood of Jesus Christ by the Spirit of God. We all came into the body the same way. We are all trophies of God’s grace. We are one in Christ. There is no room for hierarchy. There is no room for upper class, lower class or an isolated believer. There’s no believer who is not a part of the body, who’s just sitting over there by himself. Just to emphasize our unity, let’s read the catalogue of unity. Ephesians 4:4, “There’s one body, one Spirit, as you are called in one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who’s above all and through and in you all.” One; one, one, see!
In 1 Corinthians 1:12 Paul rebukes the church at Corinth and he illustrates their divisions caused by carnal “fleshly” living (paraphrased). Who are you with?” “Well, I’m an Apollos man myself.” “Oh Apollos is out, I’m a Paul man.” “Well, you know, you guys are both out, Cephas is in.” “I follow Peter myself.” Then in verse 13 he asks the question, “Is Christ divided?” In Ephesians 2:12 he tells us that, through the blood Christ Jesus we have peace with God, causing both Jew and Gentile to be one new man, breaking down our middle wall of partition, reconciling both unto God in one, body by the cross, giving all access to Him by one Spirit. We are one. “There is neither Jew, Galatians 3:28, “Gentile, Greek, slave, free, male, female,” none of those distinctions exists in the church in terms of our position in the blessing of Christ. This one new man, you see, that’s what we are. We’re a new man, a new body, the body of Christ, a brand new thing. It’s never existed before. And Christ has abolished all barriers to make us one. He’s abolished the barriers of nationality, the barriers of race, the barriers of class, the barriers of sex. Every single barrier has been abolished to make one new man. That’s a glorious thing, we’re one. It doesn’t matter who you are if we love Jesus Christ, we’re one. So the days of discrimination are over. The church that Christ has created headed by Christ tolerates no distinctions. As a result, all Christians, whether, yellow, brown, white, or black, African or African American, Asian or Asian American, East Indian, American Indian, European or European American, Arabic or Arab American South American or North American, Mexican or Mexican American, Latino or Latin American male or female, slave or free man, whatever, uncouth, barbarian, or educated Greek, whatever the case, we’re all fellow citizens. Paul calls us four things using Greek. He calls us fellow citizens, fellow heirs, fellow members, fellow partakers. Fellow, fellow, fellow, one, one, one, unity; the only reason we don’t “JUST ALL GET ALONG” is fleshly selfish desires = Sin. Sin always separates, produces death to oneness, causes conflict, destroys unity and love, hinders the purposes of God, and causes the world not to be attracted to Christ. Jesus said by this, will all men know that you are my disciples, only if you have love for one another. Only by the practice of love and unity will the world know that God the Father sent Jesus the son to be the savior of the world. We know that we have passed from death unto life when we love the brethren 1 John 3:14. The person who says he loves God but hates his brother is not in Christ. The person who has abundant resources and sees his brother in need, and closes his heart of compassion, God’s love does not live in them. 1 John3:15-17. The only way to JUST GET ALONG, is to act and function like a body. If you have questions, just look in the mirror and take a lesson from yourself. Ask your head how it feels about your legs, hands heart, mouth, feet? They will all tell you with out hesitation we are one and we love each other.
”
It is actually a letter written by Paul while he was imprisoned and consists of one chapter with twenty-four verses. It may be small but says a lot. Paul’s letter is a unique letter in the New Testament. It shows us life in the first century. The basic story is Philemon was a friend of Paul’s. Philemon’s slave, Onesimus, ran away and took some of Philemon’s money with him. While Onesimus was wandering, he became friends with Paul and becomes a Christian. Onesimus decided to right the wrong and return to Philemon. Paul sent him back to his master with this letter, not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. Paul suggests he would like to have Onesimus work with him for the gospel, in verse 13; “I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel”. Paul calls in a favor and reminds Philemon that he had received and now it was time for the tables to be turned. Although Paul could have be demanding, he chose to appeal to Philemon, in verses 8-9; “Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I appeal to you on the basis of love. I then, as Paul – an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus.” Paul uses very strong arguments, especially verse 19; “I, Paul am writing this letter with my own hand, I will pay it back – not to mention that you owe me your very self” in his touching appeal for Onesimus. Paul knows that his spiritual authority includes the privilege to order it done. He chooses to appeal to Philemon’s conscience and ultimately by God. Paul’s purpose is to count on Philemon as a mature Christian who needs no orders to understand his duty and requires no correction to respond to that duty. By appealing to Philemon instead of commanding him, Paul sets the stage for Philemon to form a new opinion towards slaves. It allows Philemon to have a new beginning with his brother, not his slave. For us seniors, we can learn a lot from this book. How many are holding onto old wounds brought on by family and friends. They hang over us like a black cloud creating anger and resentment for years. Not speaking to family members who you love, because of what? Many times we don’t remember exactly what it was. Do we realize that we not only are affected by this, but the ones we love to have around us are also affected? Yes, by our mood from carrying all that baggage. This is a new year and let it be a new beginning for you. Call, write, email or knock on their door and end it. Come from love and appeal to them instead of demanding and accusing. It might just be what is needed for a new beginning. Find peace with each other. If they don’t respond at least you have freed yourself from it.
America’s Good News
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UNITY As Goes the Family… By Andrew Pate “As goes the family, so goes the church. As goes the church, so goes the nation.” We are living in the last days and we must present a unified front to the world if we are going to effectively spread the Gospel. To do this we must first be unified with God in our daily lives. Philippians 2:5 tells us, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Paul precedes this statement with what it means to have the same attitude. In Philippians 2:3-4 it states, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” It is God’s ultimate goal that we will be made like Jesus Christ. By being likeminded in Christ, we will be able to achieve daily unity with God. It is this unity with God that will allow us to bring unity into our homes. Marriage was divinely instituted by God. It was created so that we would be joined in both power and purpose so that we would create Godly children. I can only imagine what God must be thinking when He looks down and sees the state of marriage here in the United States; a nation founded on His principles. In the year 2000, the number of divorces finalized were 957,200. Statistics show that these numbers are climbing. Polls show that the divorce rate between families in the church and families in the world are about the same. What kind of message are we sending to the world? There are Biblical reasons for divorce, but it has become far too easy to forsake our vows, deciding that it’s not going to work and move on. In Genesis 2:24 the Bible states that, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” Our marriage, or our relationship with our spouse, is a direct reflection of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Divinely
instituted, every successful marriage has three solid foundations that mirror our walk with God. The first is a public proclamation. When a man marries, he leaves his mother and father, and in a public act, proclaims his life to his wife. When we begin our walk with Jesus Christ, it begins with a public proclamation of our lives to Him. Remember, Jesus said in Matthew 10:32-33, “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.” The second foundation is the joining. When a man marries, he and his wife are joined together by taking responsibility for each other’s welfare. They make a commitment to each other to love each other above all others. In the same way when we ask Jesus into our hearts, we are joining together with our creator and creating a relationship where we take responsibility for each other’s welfare. We agree to live in the word of God, which will aid us in bringing His will to earth as it is in Heaven, and God agrees to take care of our needs. We also make a commitment to love Jesus Christ above all others. In John 14:23, Jesus tells His disciples, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and come to him and make our home with him.” The third foundation is the two becoming one flesh. When a man and a woman marry, the joining of the flesh is the intimacy and commitment of sexual union that has been reserved only for marriage. In the spiritual realm, we join our spirits with Jesus Christ, becoming likeminded in purpose. We are to constantly renew ourselves in the Holy Spirit, drawing Him closer to us as James tells us in James 4:8, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
So we see that marriage is divinely instituted, but exactly why did God create marriage. The first marriage was instituted for our happiness. It may not always feel that way, but in Genesis 2:18 “The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Since we were made in the image of God, He knew that we would not be happy alone, because He is not happy alone. So God made man a helpe mate who would make him both complete and content. To be unified in our marriages wives must be submissive to their husbands. Before you ladies start forming a lynch mob, we will be addressing the roles of the husbands next. Ephesians 5:22-24 reads, “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.” In the same way that we are to submit to Jesus Christ, wives are to submit to their husbands. This does not mean that wives are supposed to wait until their husbands have earned it. This does not mean that wives are to be doormats. This kind of submission will promote harmony and order as well as increasing love and respect among the family. A wise and God fearing husband will not take advantage of a submissive wife. Men, we will be held accountable for how we have developed our wives and children on judgment day. We, as the priests of our homes, our responsible for every decision that is made under our authority. In order to ensure that we are speaking life into our wives Paul gives us
the following instructions. Ephesians 5:25-31 tells us, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church – for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” Once again you may see that the relationship with our spouse is a direct relationship with Jesus Christ. As a family unit, our relationship with each other is a direct reflection of the churches we attend. As Christ loved the church, men are to love their wives. That means that we love them when they don’t deserve it, just as Christ loves us when we do not deserve it. If we can wrap our minds around this we can see the correlation that it has to our churches. If we master these attitudes in our marriages, we can reproduce them in our relationship with the church. What we would then have is a unified voice that has 100% volunteers and tithing instead of the estimated 5% that is currently being reported nationwide. Without personal unity with God, we will never have unity in our families, and without unity in our families, we will never have unity in our churches.
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America’s Good News
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Worship Services If you are interested in having your church listed on the Worship services page, call Ron or Pat Reagan at 925-240-1242 Bread of Life Community Church
Pastor Edward L. Riley 18 O’Neill Court Oakley 925-625-9081 - www.bolcc.net email: edwardriley@sbcglobal.net
Church on the Rock
Pastor Craig Dale 9:30am Traditional 11:00am Contemporary 50 Walton Lane (off Lone Tree) Antioch, CA 94509 925-706-2842
The Light Ministries
Pastor Larry Roper 405 West 6th Street Antioch, CA 94509 925-778-1639
Agape Bible Fellowship
Pastor: Dr. John Ojewole 605 West Madill St. Antioch Tel. 925-709-4424 Email: info@agapebfm.org Website: www.agapebfm.org Sunday Worship: 10:30am Group Bible Study: 9:30am Prayer fellowship: Tuesdays 7pm Youth fellowship: Fridays 7pm Prayer Vigil: last Friday of month 9pm
Our Father’s House
Apostle Larry Johnson 2980 Railroad Ave, 2nd floor Pittsburg, CA 925-457-3358 Fridays 7 pm, Sundays @ 10 am & 5 pm
New Lifeline Ministries 4246 Empire Ave. Oakley Sunday service 10am Wed. Bible Study 7:30pm 925-625-1982
Destiny Christian Center
Bishop Gregory Bell Sunday 10:30am Service Wed Worship & Study 7:30pm 132 O’Hara Av. Oakley 925-679-1361
Mariner’s Church
Byron Middle School Gym 9 am Children/Teen Sun Sch. & Nursery 9:15am Adult Sunday School ~ 10:30 am High School “Hang Time” ~ 6:30 pm Tue. Bible Study ~ 10 am Wednesdays Pastor Jim Kraft ~ 634-0800 Office: 5545 Drakes Ct., Discovery Bay
Live Oak Community Christian Center
5471 Live Oak Av. Oakley 925-625-2556 Worship Services Sunday 10am Marriage Bible Study Mon 7:30pm Kingdom Men Tuesday 7:30pm Ladies Bible Study Tue 7:30pm Youth Group Wed 7:00pm Home Cell Groups Fri 7:30pm Saturday Morning prayer 8am
His Presence
Christian Worship Center Location: Holiday Inn Concord 1050 Burnett Ave 94520 Sunday’s 10:00am starting Tuesday bible study 7:30 pm Mail to: 1145 2nd St. Ste A #161 Brentwood, CA 94513 ph# 925-405-9620
Grace Bible Fellowship Pastor Kirkland Smith Sunday 8am & 11:15am Tues 7pm Prayer Wed 6am 913 Sunset Dr. Antioch, CA 94509 925-522-2017
The Carpenter’s Shop Int’l Prs. Jerry and Penny Slavens P.O. Box 2083 Antioch, CA 94531 925-778-0800 925-778-0804 fax carpenters.shop@sbcglobal.net www.thecarpentershop.org Saturday Service 11am - 1pm
Immaculate Heart of Mary
Catholic Church 500 Fairview Ave Brentwood Saturday Vigil 5:00, 6:30[sp] Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00 and 12:30 Spanish 10:45 and 2:00 pm Daily 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM 925-634-4156 email: ihmchurch@sbcglobal.net
Unity on the Delta
Pastor Robert Waldon Sunday Service - 10:00am 50 Sand Creek Road, Ste. 140 Brentwood, CA 94513 Ph - 925-754-5343
Lighthouse Christian Center 1210 Stoneman Ave Pittsburg, Ca 94565 (925) 432-3808 Pastors Jason & Peggy Younger Sundays 9:30 & 11:15am Wednesday: Prayer & Healing Service 7:00pm
Fountain of Life Church
Pastor: Ronald Mixon 111 W. 10th St. Antioch, CA 94509 Next to Antioch City Park on A St. (925) 755-8779 E-mail: ronmixon@sbcglobal.net www.thefountainoflifechurch.org Sunday Worship:10:00AM Wednesday: Intercessory Prayer: 7-7:30PM Bible Study:7:30-8:30PM
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Faith Worship Center
Pr. Anthony E. Blackman 2170 Harbor St. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Service - Sundays 8:00am &10:00am Wednesdays 7:00pm 925-427-0976
Christ Temple
Full Faith Ministry Inc. Pastor Damon Pierson Worship service 1pm 101 West 9th St.Antioch CA 925-978-6273
Crossroads Christian Center Heritage High-Multipurpose Rm. 101 American Ave. Brentwood 925-516-7795 Sunday Service 10:30am Tuesday Bible Study 7pm Pastor Andrew G. Miley
Calvary Chapel Crossroads
Pr. John Snoderly 1771 Vineyard Dr., Antioch Phone 925-778-2011 Services: Sundays at 10 AM Bible Study: Wednesdays at 7 PM www.cccrossroads.org email: church@cccrossroads.org
Calvary Fellowship
Pastor Dave Perata Discovery Bay Elementary School SundayService10:00AM 1700 Willow Lake Road 925.626.3525 Mid week Bible Study Thursday 7PM 1555 River Lake Road in Discovery Bay
Delta Oaks Presbyterian Church
3195 Contra Loma Blvd. Antioch (925) 516-2735 Sunday’s 9:30AM Sunday School all ages 11AM Sunday evening Pioneer Club for kids, JH and SH Youth Groups, and an Adult Study. Home Bible and Prayer meeting during the week. deltaoaks.org.
The East Bay Pentecostals
605 Harvest Park Drive Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 634-2012 Pastor Joel R. Bryant Sunday Services 10am & 5pm Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm Friday Youth 7pm
International Christian Ministry
Grace Lutheran Church 195 Alvarado Ave Pittsburg, CA 94565 Rev Tuma Johnson 550-5573
Mountain View Christian Center
Pr. Jerry Hanoum 5000 Amaryllis Oakley Ca 94561 925-625-9570 Sundays 9am & 10:45am Sundays 5:00pm Spanish Wednesdays 7pm Soldiers in Christ - Jr. High Wed 7pm Souled Out - High sch. Wed 7pm
Kings Chapel
Pr. Phillip Marocco 320 Worrell Rd. Antioch, CA 925-756-7315 Sun. 10:00am and 6:00pm Tue. 7:00pm Youth and Adult Bible study www kingscathedral.com
Rejoyce Christian Center
Pr. Kenny Ogunfunmi Sunday Service 10:30 AM 90 Village Dr. Brentwood 94513 925-240-0380 admin@rcconline.net - email
Gateway Church
Pastor Joe & Danille Hernandez Sundays 10AM Youth and Kids Ministry 847 Arnold Dr. Martinez, CA 94553 925.335.9519 www.gatewaychurch.us
The Orchard Church
Heritage High School Theater 101 American Ave Brentwood Service at 10am Sundays Pastor Steve (925) 325-5020 theorchardchurch.com
Outreach Ministries Birthright of Brentwood
Helping pregnant women facing personal crisis. Call 925-634-1275
Royal Family Kids Camp
4725 Evora Rd.Concord, CA www.rfkcconcord.com Rick Fuller, Director 925.207.7240
Family Life Center of Brentwood 605 Harvest Park Drive Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 634-2016 Ministering to families in need: Homework Help, Social Services (Food Stamps, Healthy Families) Food Pantry, Clothing & More Thursdays at 7pm School of Theology Echo of Christ Ministries For
5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley more info on the conflict in the Middle Enroll Now and start studying the East - Call 866-317-3626 Word of Godwww.echoofchrist.org Contact Pastor Tyrone Helping Hands @ 925-625-9570 Food & Clothing to those in need Minister Travis Mozeke Every Wednesday 5:30 - 6:30pm Grace Bible Fellowship 5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley Overcomers 925.727.8788 925.625.9570
America’s Good News
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CALENDAR Freedom Recovery Counseling and Edification - Overcoming Strongholds: 1)anger issues 2)compulsive addictions 3)renewing of the mind. Men/Women support groups biblical instruction for living & walking triumphantly in christ Every Friday at 6:30 pm - MVCC 5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley More info contact: Pastor Tyrone Holmes 925 625-9570 ext 108
Christian Foster Families Aldea Children and Family Services Desperate need for Christian Foster Families Training at Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane (925) 516-0653 Brentwood, CA 94513 Lisa Phillips Cell # 925-848-6032 Aldea Children and Family Services http://www.aldeainc.com/
Free Freedom Food and Recovery Clothing Helping Hands Food & Clothing to those in need Every Wednesday 5:30-6:30pm Rm 14 5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley (925) 625-9570
Women of Worth Proverbs 31:10 Monday - Jan. 4th 7pm-8:15pm Doors open at 6:30pm Mountain View Christian Center 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley 925-625-9570
MVP - Men of Vision & Purpose Every 3rd Monday Doors open 6:30-teaching at 7pm Sponsored by Mountain View Christian Center 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley 20/10 Vision 925-625-9570
Call to Courage for Men "extraordinary - The Life You're meant to Live" By John Bevere Men Eight to Eighty Years Old - Monday evenings, Nov. 30th starts a 12 week series by John Bevere titled, "Extraordinary - The Life You're Meant to Live" Mondays from 7:00pm to 9:00pm Dinner at 7:00pm & each DVD session starts at 7:30pm. The DVD series is shown on a 17' ft. screen in HD, with Dolby 7.2 surround sound. 925-755-1031 or 510-774-1813 for info. Call to Courage 1787 Vineyard Drive Antioch, CA 94509
St. Anthony FreedomColumbiettes Recovery 2 Chronicles 30:12 Also in Judah the hand of God was on the people to give them unity of mind to carry out what the king and his officials had ordered, following the word of the LORD.
St Anthony Columbiettes Council 10414 is a non-profit women’s auxiliary affiliated with the Knights of Columbus that provides support to the Parish and the Community. We are hosting our 3rd Annual Crab Feed Dinner on Saturday January 9th, 2010 and we are looking for donations of raffle items. You can mail Gift Certificates to Columbiettes attn: Fran Kennealy 913 Chianti Way Oakley Ca 94561 or reach me on my cell at 925-437-8425 to arrange for pick up or drop off. 971 O’Hara Avenue Oakley, CA 94561
Judges 20:11 So all the men of Israel got together and united as one man against the city. Here are just a few locations that you can find a copy of
AmerICA’S GOOD NeWS
SereNDIPITY BIBLe HOUSe 760 madison St. FAIrFIeLD LAUNDerLAND railroad Ave. PITTSBUrG LeBrerIA FUeNTe De vIDA 3009 Delta Fair Blvd. ANTIOCH WINNer’S CIrCLe WeSTerN WeAr 505 W. 2nd St. ANTIOCH QUAIL LODGe reTIremeNT reSIDeNCe 4850 Deer valley rd. ANTIOCH COmmONS AT DALLAS rANCH 4751 Dallas ranch rd. ANTIOCH PITTSBUrG WASH N DrY 208 Atlantic Ave. PITTSBUrG reAGAN mANAGemeNT 60 eagle rock Way Ste. C BreNTWOOD
GrACeLAND CHrISTIAN BOOKSTOre 4261 Century Blvd. PITTSBUrG BAGeL STreeT CAFe’ 4815 Lone Tree Suite C ANTIOCH eL rAY TAQUerIA 4621 Golf Course road ANTIOCH LAUNDer LAND 1657 A ST. ANTOCH HAZeL’S DrIve-IN ANTIOCH HWY DeLTA BreeZe LAUNDerLAND 1092 Sycamore Dr. ANTIOCH FIeSTA FILIPINA/OrIeNTAL FOODS & GIFT mArT 155 Atlantic Ave. PITTSBUrG LOS reYeS TAQUerIA 526 Bailey road PITTSBUrG UNITY HALL 711 empire Street FAIrFIeLD
If you are having a community outreach event or ministry event that would bless our community send calendar information to wbyrns@americasgoodnews.com Call us at 925-625-9570
RESOURCES Hope eternal Recovery group for women. Tuesdays @ 7:00 p.m. 1745 E.18th St. Rm 25 Antioch, 94509 Facilitator: Julie McGee 925-584-5282 Cornerstone 925-779-2000
Christian Help Ctr 2166 Sacramento Street, Vallejo, CA 94590 (707) 553-8192 Food, Clothing, Shelter - Transitional Living Dove Aviation Is looking for volunteers to help with their ministry on local and international levels. Dove is involved in Mission Trips (925)584-7079 mission Solano 740 Travis Blvd. Fairfield CA (707) 422-1011 Daily Meals, Transitional Living Daily Shower, Shelter New Life Programs
Shepherd’s Gate Christ Centered services for Battered/homeless Women & Children 605 Sycamore Brentwood CA (925) 308-7507 Love -a-Child missions Homeless Recovery Shelter Rehabilitative services for homeless women and children. (925) 458-5663 info@love-a-child.org victory Outreach-Pittsburg 2328 Willow Pass Rd (925) 432-0937 Christian Recovery Program Drug & Alcohol Iron Shop Men’s Recovery Group Christian Twelve Step 925-525-9957 1745 East 18th Street Antioch Unity Hall: A recovery Community Center 711 Empire St. Fairfield CA 707-421-2792 Drug and Alcohol prevention
Crab Feed Fundraiser
Saturday March 6th 2010 East Diablo Youth Soccer League $35.00 / Ticket Email: polycon808@yahoo.com Location: Hanoum Estate – 4790 Knarlwood Road Oakley, CA For more info call Keoni 925.766.0608 1 Chronicles 12:17 David went out to meet them and said to them, “If you have come to me in peace, to helpme, I am ready to have you unite with me. But if you have come to betray me to my enemies when my hands are free from violence, may the God of our fathers see it and judge you.
Good News Publishing USA Publisher - Pastors Hanoum / Dellinger editor-In-Chief - Will Byrns Copy editor - Cathy Huffman marketing Director - Carleton Booker reporters/Columnists Susan Holmes, Austin Miles, Johnny Jones, Saed & Linda Awwad, Priscilla Stanley, Felix Golden, Lindasue Sizuela Andrew Pate, Juan Prieto, Diana Dobbie, Gina Dacus and Don Kwong Distribution manager - Jerry Gebrosky Solano County Dist. - Jeanne Byrns Graphics - Will Byrns & Jake Carter
5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley CA 94561 ofc: (925) 625-9570 fax: 625-9003
Email: wbyrns@americasgoodnews.com
Send releases, letters and reprint requests to the Email or address above. (c) Copyright 2004 Mountain View Christian Center. All rights reserved. - Member OneNewsNow Chamber of Commerce Christian Newspaper Assoc.
America’s Good News covers Local, National and World news headlines and stories. The views and opinions expressed in this literature does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of America’s Good News.
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Guiding teens on life’s highway
Mark Gregston Parents of teenagers can grow anxious about the path their teen is choosing in life. They might worry about their teen’s future, or even fret over whether or not they’ll have a good relationship with their teen after they leave home. If you’re feeling anxious today, I’d like to offer some advice. First, let’s put anxiety into perspective with the words of Billy Graham, who wisely said, “Anxiety is the natural result when our hopes are centered in anything short of God and His will for us.” If we could apply that truth to the parents of teenagers, the answer to anxiety is the same — to have faith in God to guide your teenager along the right path. Such faith can be severely tested, however, when a teenager gets off track. I call these kids “lost.” No, not in the sense that their souls are lost, but that they are no longer traveling the road their parents put them on. In fact, they’re traveling on a road that’s foreign to their parents and are headed to a destination unknown.
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Their off-track behavior is easily mistaken for out and out rebellion. But from my experience, most aren’t really rebelling at all. For one reason or another, they’re traveling down the wrong road, and they don’t know how to navigate their way back on their own. Their behavior is an outward reflection of something on the inside needing to get out, displayed in an immature and inappropriate way. Parents quick to label a child’s behavior as “rebellious” might miss the true heart of what’s going on with their child. And if the parent reacts too harshly, frustration and stubbornness may set in, pushing the teen even further down the wrong path. So, the question parents should first ask is this: “Is the behavior I see in my teen really rebellion, or has something happened in their life that has caused them to become lost? For example, I remember one set of parents who had no idea their young son was sexually and emotionally abused by a friend of the family. On the surface, their child was angry, lash-
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ing out, smoking dope, and depressed. They thought he was being rebellious. But once they understood what was really happening to him, they changed the way they engaged with him. He wasn’t being rebellious. He was a victim of abuse, and chose the only way he knew to let his parents know there was a problem in his life. Knowing what was at the root of their boy’s behavior changed the way they guided him from that point on. Another mom once told me that her daughter seemed oppositional and defiant, right up until the moment she learned that her daughter was experiencing physical abuse at the hand of her boyfriend, who was stalking her and threatening her family. Some kids are getting lost because the substances they’ve been experimenting with are causing their moral compass to get all out of whack. They may not even know the effect the substances are having on their emotions, attitudes, and reactions. What is needed when any type of
They thought he was being rebellious. But once they understood what was really happening to him, they changed the way they engaged with him.
rebellion surfaces in a teen is to get to the root cause. But that can only happen when parents spend time trying to strengthen the connection with their teen. When such a connection has been neglected in the past, a good counselor may be needed to be a catalyst to open up the teen’s issues and strengthen the lines of communication between teen and parent. So, if you are having struggles, don’t view it as a parental failure but as an opportunity to trust God and learn more about yourself and your teenager. Struggles create opportunities for families to strengthen and lean on God and not on their own understanding. The way in which a parent faces the struggle is a far better measure of good parenting than whether they struggle or not. Teach, discipline and nurture your kids while you can. Trust God to give you what you need for the journey and lay your fears down at his feet. Shift your parenting role from navigator to trusted tour guide as your teen gets older. And when they get off track or appear to be lost, don’t respond with anger, fear, or anxiety. Instead, lovingly, but firmly help them find their way back on the right path and seek professional help if you cannot make headway on your own.
What is needed when any type of rebellion surfaces in a teen is to get to the root cause.
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Pictured right - Pastor Joe Seeley asking who is willing to go the second mile to love others and stand for Jesus? Below- Pastor Anthony Vasquez and Colter Andersen performing ‘Chiseled.’
Are you a second mile man? Staff Report As usual the Men Of Purpose meeting in December started off with amazing food, fellowship and worship to the Lord. Immediately following worship two men came up to the platform from the drama team and performed a short skit. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. This was the scripture that the skit titled “Chiseled” centered on. Pastor Anthony Vasquez playing himself, along with Colter Andersen playing the role of God, portrayed the story of how a man goes through life carrying around baggage that isn’t Godly. God created a masterpiece in each one of us and sometimes He just needs to chisel away things in our life that hinder us from being more Christlike. This drama visibly showed the men how we resist the pain of being pruned and have trouble trying to receive the path the God has us on. When we let God have His way in our lives and surrender totally to His will, then we experience life to the fullest. Pastor Joe Seeley was the keynote speaker for the night and his message was ‘Second Mile Man.’ He gave an illustrated message by showing film clips from the Rocky series. In one scene Apollo Creed was telling Rocky that they were cut of the same cloth. Rocky was telling Apollo that maybe they should both retire, but Apollo had a message for Rocky. Apollo told him that they were both fighters, it was in their blood, and they could never deny or change that fact. Pastor Joe was encouraging men to never give up and to go that second mile as scripture tells us in Matthew 5. He said that “we are our worst enemy, and sometimes we let satan get a foothold in our lives because we give up before the fight is over. We already have the victory in Christ,” said Pastor Joe. Before the close of his message Pastor Joe had several men stand up as he acknowledged their commitment in his life and how they encouraged him never to give up. He said they were all ‘second mile men,’ because of the spiritual and physical strength they spoke into his life. The final man that Pastor Joe honored was his father. He exclaimed with passion and tears, “My father told me to never quit in life, and that touched my heart to this very day.” What a joy it was to see a son give such honor to his father. Following the close of Pastor Joe’s message men gathered at the altar to give honor to their heavenly father. Men prayed for one another and were encouraged by each other that night. Men – God has a plan and a purpose for your life. If you have never been to an MVP meeting before, I would encourage you to come one time and check it out. You will have a close encounter with the living God who created all things. He is our strength, our rock, our fortress and deliverer. He is our Savior, wonderful counselor, prince of peace. He is our everything. Men of Purpose meet the third Monday of every month at Mountain View Christian Center, located at 5000 Amaryllis Street in Oakley, CA. Dinner is served at 6:30pm and teaching starts at 7:00pm. Call 925.625.9570 for more information.
Men of Purpose - lifting their hands in worship and sharing brotherly love with one another.
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