I
Tidings January 2009
am an optimist. I believe we can always
grow and improve. This was a key aspect of what John Wesley believed. He taught Methodists to grow in God’s grace. Being a Christian for Wesley was far more than salvation. The beginning point is not the end. A baby is cute, but a baby needs to grow up. We need to grow up spiritually in Christ. We must learn how to crawl, and then how to walk. We must learn to get out of the high chair and bib, and to sit at the table and feed ourselves. The only people who cannot feed themselves are infants and the sick. As we begin a New Year, I hope our people will say, “This year I resolve to mature in my Christian faith.” Maturity does not happen all at once. It is a process. But there are ways we can cooperate with maturity and there are ways we can impede our development. Ephesians 2:1-10 shows the movement of God’s grace in us. Grace comes to us even while we reject Him. We are saved by it, not because we deserve it. However, the purpose of our salvation is to do good works. We are here for a greater reason than just hanging on until we go to heaven: to bear fruit. In January the sermons and scripture reflect this pattern. We begin with salvation, talk about two means of God’s grace (prayer and scripture), and then end with an emphasis upon doing good works. Good fruit is the best evidence that we are “In Christ.” 2008 is no more. We had a lot of highs and lows last year! 2009 has some huge challenges…and opportunities. As 2009 is shaping up, more than any
CONTENTS
year I can recently recall, we really need to be spiritually prepared! Asbury will do our part. We have prayer journals and Bible study guides for you. There are small groups, classes, and worship opportunities galore. We have specific serving places needing volunteers. Just as you take responsibility for your health, YOU must take responsibility for your spiritual life. We will help, but you must participate. Perfection is not required! Beginners are more than invited—they are embraced. Just doing the same old things over and over again and expecting different results is insane. A New Year is NEW, different, and full of potential ways we can form new habits, attitudes, behaviors, and lifestyles. Only by God’s grace can we say, “Merry Christmas.” Christmas is all about God’s incredible activity in Jesus Christ. “Happy New Year” becomes our opportunity to respond. As Abraham Lincoln said, “People are generally as happy as they make up their minds to be!” I believe our best chance of happiness comes from living out our faith. This is our time to grow. See you Sunday,
Dr. Tom Harrison
Managing editor Tara Lynn Thompson
4 Warm and Fuzzy
19 The Giving of Gifts
6 A People of One Book
21 Cleopas
8 The Journey of a Prayer
23 Opportunities
10 Special Delivery
32 New Members
12 Finding Purpose in Pain
34 Family Room
15 Moving Mountains Asbury Tidings is a monthly publication designed to tell stories of lives being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. You may read back issues by visiting www.asburytulsa.org
taralynnthompson.com
Graphic designer Nicole McMahan nicole@lookmacreative.com
Photographer Don Kreutzweiser donsimages.com
Guest Contributors Marsha Baker Heather Bates • William Carey • Heather Chabino Marcia Culver • Rod Giles •Vaughn Story John Westervelt
special registration Sunday, January 4 before and after church & between services • Main Foyer Welcome to RoadMap, your guide
church, and between services in the Main
along the journey of Christian growth
Foyer. This will be a chance for you to meet
and education. We are pleased to offer
the instructors, ask questions, purchase
a variety of biblically based classes for all
and pick up your book(s).
ages. To insure that you will have materi-
Available during core hours beginning
als by the first class session, call at least 2
January 5, children may be dropped off
weeks prior to class start date. After that,
15 minutes before parent’s Roadmap class
registrations will be accepted up to the
begins: Monday & Tuesday mornings,
start of the class, but no guarantees will be
9am–12pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, and
made concerning your materials. Childcare
Thursday evenings, 6–9pm. No childcare
will be provided unless otherwise noted.
on these dates: January 19, February 16,
There will be a special registration
March 16-20, April 6-10, May 25.
sign-up and book purchase opportunity on Sunday, January 4, before and after
ASBURY TIDINGS
ed. rm a w rt ea h y m ve a h to e lv I reso
Warm and Fuzzy marcia culver
S
ydney, what did you talk about Child: We can buy new things or we can bring in things that we don’t use anymore. My teacher said at church today?
Child: We talked about the leapers that Jesus healed, the one leaper that said thank you and worm fluzzy. Mother: Worm fluzzy? What is a worm fluzzy? Child: You know Mommy, hats and gloves to keep you worm. Mother: Oh, sweetie do you mean warm? Child: Yes, worm, that is what I said, Mommy. Mother: Sydney, do you mean warm fuzzy? Child: Yes, worm fluzzy. Mother: Okay, sweetie. Sydney, tell me, what are warm fuzzies? Child: Warm fuzzies are clothes that help keep you warm. We are suppose to bring things to the church that will help keep other people warm. Mother: Sydney, do we need to buy the warm fuzzies?
that we could bring new or gently used things.
Mother: Sydney, who is going to receive the warm fuzzies? Child: My teacher said that we are going to give the warm fuzzies to people in my town. Mother: Oh, so we aren’t going to send the warm items somewhere far away this time. Child: Nope. Mother: Sydney, I think that it is great that you want to help other people. Let’s go look in our coat closet to see if we have anything that is too small or gently used that we can give to someone else. After that we can go to the store and find some nice ‘worm fluzzies’ to share. Child: Okay, Mommy. That sounds like a good idea. But Mommy? Mother: Yes Sydney. Child: Why don’t some people have clothes to keep them warm?
ASBURY TIDINGS
Mother: Well sweetie, sometimes things happen to
The leaves are changing and dropping to the
people and they have a hard time buying all of the
ground. The weather is turning colder, and you can
things that they need.
feel the nip of winter in the air. Everyone is bundled
Child: But, Mommy, I would be sad if I was cold in the winter time. Mother: Yes, Sydney, it would be sad if we did not have clothes and coats to keep us warm in the winter. Do you know that is why we need to be like the one leaper in your Bible story who said thank you. We need to be thankful to God in all circumstances, whether they are good or bad, and thank him for everything that he does for us. We also need to be thankful to God that we can help other people. Jesus was a very good example of helping other people. Jesus shared his love, food and himself with everyone. We can be like Jesus by sharing things that we have, our time and love with other people. Then we can praise God and be thankful that God has blessed us. Child: Mommy?
up in their warm sweaters and coats getting out in the blustery air. Asbury Children’s Ministry is so grateful that we have houses, clothes and jackets to keep us warm. We know that not all of our friends and neighbors in the Tulsa area have warm clothing for the winter. So we wanted to help our friends and neighbors stay warm this winter. Warm Fuzzy was the Children’s Ministry mission project for the month of December. We focused on people in the Tulsa area community who do not have blankets, coats, hats, gloves and scarves to help them stay warm this winter. By collecting new and gently used warm and fuzzy items, we were able to help our friends and neighbors. All of the donations and money collected in the Faith Zone benefited families in the Tulsa Community through Restore Hope. The Children’s Ministry would like to thank all of the Sydney’s who told their parents, grandparents, aunts or uncles about the Warm Fuzzy project and
Mother: Yes, Sydney. Child: I am thankful that you are my Mommy. Mother: Sydney, I am thankful that I am your Mom-
donated items or money. Thank you for continuing to bless the children of Asbury and the people in our community with your time, love and gifts. Stay warm this winter!
my too.
ASBURY TIDINGS
ook. b e on of on rs pe a e b to e lv I reso
A People of One Book vaughn story
O
n May 10, 1765, John Newton, English preacher and composer of Amazing Grace, celebrated the 17th anniversary of the day when he became a Christian. Four days later, 61 year-old John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Movement, writes a letter to his preacher friend and mentions one of his own anniversaries: “In 1730, I began to be ‘a man of one book.’“ The “one book” is, of course, the Bible. The Bible was not the only book John Wesley read during those 35 years. He was an avid and broad reader of books. Wesley himself once roughly estimated that he had read 600 books on philosophy, science, history, and theology. What was he saying? “I am a man of one book,” was cultural shorthand in Wesley’s day for, “I am thoroughly versed in one of my favorite literary works.” Wesley was telling Newton, “Thirty-five years ago, I made a decision to become thoroughly versed in my favorite book, the Bible.” John Wesley is clear about the primary role of the Bible for all of us who call ourselves Christians and United Methodists. In one of his journals he writes
ASBURY TIDINGS
that the Bible “is the one, the only standard of truth, and the only model of pure religion.” In another entry, he states emphatically, “Yes, I am a Bible-bigot. I follow it in all things, both great and small.” Why should the Bible be authoritative for us? The Bible itself tells us why in 2 Timothy 3:16-17. The NIV reads, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, (17) so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” At the very least, we are told in these verses that the Scriptures are a central piece of God’s repertoire for working within our world through persons made in his image who cooperate with him. God has delegated his own authority somehow to the Bible itself. Verse 16 above tells us “all Scripture…is useful.” For what? For instructing us. For refuting and rebuking error and sin in our lives. For “straightening us up” by aligning our attitudes, ideas, and values with God’s. For disciplining us to be and to remain in right relation with God and with all people. The Bible itself is part of God’s saving plan and is one of God’s gracious means for enabling us to live the life of heaven even while living on earth.
Why did God breathe out every Scripture?
to talk in scriptural language, and your spirit is fla-
So that the people of God “may be thoroughly
vored with the words of the Lord, so that your blood
equipped for every good work.” The Bible has been
is ‘bibline,’ and the very essence of the Bible flows
given to us to equip us to do God’s work in God’s
from you.”
world. How are we to read the Bible so that God accomplishes his work in and through us?
How do we do this? Hear Spurgeon again. “Some people like to read so many chapters every day. I would not dissuade
Again, the Bible itself instructs us in a striking
them from the practice. But I would rather let my
vision of the Apostle John recorded in Revelation
soul soak in a half dozen verses all day than rinse
10:1-10.
my hand in several chapters. Oh, to be bathed in a
John sees in this vision an enormous, powerful
text of scripture, and to let it be sucked up in your
useful for teaching, reis d an ed th ea br dGo is All Scripture e in righteousness, so that th g in in tra d an g in ct rre co buking, rk. y equipped for every good wo hl ug oro th be ay m d Go of man
2 Timothy 3:16-17
angel planting his right foot in the ocean and his left
very soul until it saturates your heart!”
one on the Asian continent. The angel holds in his
As with Apostle John, so God commands us to
hand a little, open book (our English word “Bible” is
assimilate and to internalize scripture. Why? So that
derived from John’s own Greek word here), which
when we do speak God’s word, which has been un-
is as much of the Holy Scriptures that were written
consciously assimilated into the nerves and fiber of
at the time.
our being, God’s word may be skillfully expressed in
The angel begins loudly proclaiming the word of
what we say and do.
God from the text of the little book. Then, a voice from heaven tells John to take the little book out of the angel’s hand. John obeys, and the angel gives him the book and says, “Take it and eat it.” And in the vision, John does this, and God’s Spirit tells us something essential about the way we must read the texts of our Bibles. Metaphorically speaking, we should “eat” the texts of our Bible while reading them. We learn to read and to receive the words of the Bible inside of us in a way that forms us into Christian men and women. Charles Spurgeon, England’s greatest preacher about a hundred years after John Wesley, comments about this in a sermon, “It is blessed to eat
When Quiet in My House I Sit by Charles Wesley
When quiet in my house I sit, Your book be my companion still; My joy Your sayings to repeat, Talk over the records of Your will, And search the oracles divine, Until every heartfelt word be mine. Oh, may the gracious words divine Subject of all my conversations be; So will the Lord His follower join, And walk and talk Himself with me; So shall my heart His presence prove, And burn with everlasting love.
into the very soul of the Bible until, at last, you come ASBURY TIDINGS
7
prayer. al u tin n co in d Go e as ple to I resolve
The Journey of a Prayer rod giles
I
t had been a wild ride so far. Jenna journey, and even one from a child whose pet bunny had recently moved from Kansas with her eight-
month-old baby. She left just after her husband was deployed to Iraq as a fighter pilot.
She had found an apartment close to the big mall,
started her new job. She was on edge, fearful of new places and new experiences. A new friend from work had invited her to church, and here she was in the service. It was different, not your traditional church —they called it Venue something. She had picked up a little white card titled “Prayer Requests” from one of the tables out front. She wasn’t sure why. She found the courage to write something on the card, and it found its way from Jenna’s hand to the collection plate. It was all that Jenna was able to give to the church that Sunday. She overcame her fears and anxiety just enough to think, “Well, maybe God can help me, if He really cares.” It was really kind of a test—to see what would become of the card. Where would it go? Who would ever see it? How could she know? Jenna grew up in church, but her faith was at an all time low at this time of her life. On Monday that white card made it to Pam’s desk along with all the rest collected from the Sunday services. There were the usual requests for healing, several asking God for successful surgery for a loved one, protection for a mission group on a long
ASBURY TIDINGS
had just died.
These were all legitimate petitions to God, Pam knew, because God cares about even the smallest facets of our lives, but Jenna’s card caught Pam’s eyes. Jenna had written about her husband being shipped out, her second thoughts about moving to a new city, whether she would fit in at her new job, and concern over day care for her baby. This Jenna seemed to have a lot on her plate—certainly a huge burden for a young wife and mother. Pam entered Jenna’s name and specific requests onto her weekly list of prayer requests. There were so many this week, over 150, She put them all into specific groups that she knew would be given special attention by lay people, pastors and staff. Jenna’s fears that her request for prayer might go unnoticed would not be the case. By Monday afternoon, 70 members of the Intercessory Prayer Team received copies of the prayer requests received that Sunday. Jenna’s name and a summary of her prayer needs went to everyone. She was lifted up in prayer that very day by this troop of real “prayer warriors.” By Tuesday, Jenna’s prayer requests were emailed to the pastors and ministry leaders. At the close of the weekly staff meeting, a member of the staff who had been given her name and needs on a slip of paper, again lifted her up in prayer in a small group
of staffers. Today, it just happened to be Glenn. He had never met Jenna and could only guess at the fear and anxiety she was feeling. But Glen had those same feelings in his own life. He was someone who knew God’s provision in his own life and earnestly prayed for God to provide for Jenna as well. Charlene, who heads up Asbury’s Care Ministry, took note of Jenna’s prayer request. Jenna had noted her telephone number on the card, so on Wednesday Charlene was able to call Jenna They discussed the possibility of her meeting with a Stephens Minister, someone who could listen, share and pray with Jenna on a weekly basis. Jenna readily agreed. She really needed a friend to tell her concerns and fears to, someone who could show her God’s love for her, no matter what was said. Late in the week, Jenna received a postcard to let her know that “The Asbury Staff lifted your needs and concerns in prayer today.” Wow. God really does care.
perfect system but one that continues to reach out to anyone who would send a card in.
And on Saturday, Jenna received a call from
It is said that prayer creates closeness three dif-
Gwen, a member of Asbury’s Military Connection.
ferent ways. You create closeness to the One you
Gwen asked specifically how Asbury could reach out
pray to, the one you pray for, and the one you
three different ss ne se clo s te ea cr er ay pr It is said that u pray to, the yo e On e th to ss ne se clo te ways. You crea th. That is how wi ay pr u yo e on e th d an r, one you pray fo d thrives. spiritual community grows an to Jenna’s husband. God really does hear prayers
pray with. That is how spiritual community grows
and His people do care.
and thrives.
Jenna’s story is fictional. But there are many sto-
In Isaiah 56: 7 Scripture states, “for my house will
ries like Jenna’s every week. Prayer Request Cards
be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Jesus
come in, staff people prepare prayer lists with names
repeated that statement in Matthew 21:13.
and prayer needs, and in a single day, prayer warriors are active on their behalf.
Asbury takes that seriously. All members can become an active part in prayer ministry. Fill out
Requests can be made confidential, for pastoral
a prayer request card and mark the box at the bot-
eyes only, if petitioners request. As a large church,
tom on the reverse side. Give your name and phone
Asbury has to be very intentional in its efforts to ex-
numbers. You will see how God moves in the lives
press God’s love to visitors and members. It is not a
of others and especially your own. ASBURY TIDINGS
n. I resolve to do all the good I ca
Special Delivery
Asbury couple serves others through flower delivery heather bates
B
eth and Scott Brown desired to a time when the divorce rate is so high. Charlene agreed that this event is “not only a serve in the marriage ministry at great acknowledgement for the couples. It is also Asbury. Being a busy family of five, how-
ever, left little time to volunteer.
Charlene Giles, Director of the Care and Marriage
Ministry, had been praying for the right person to take over the corsage delivery, which recognizes couples married 50 years or more. So when Charlene tapped Beth on the shoulder one day at church and asked her if she and Scott would be interested, it didn’t take them long to see this would be a perfect fit. For the past several years, during the 11 am service on the Sunday before Valentine’s Day, Asbury recognizes couples married 50 years or more. It is easy to spot them on that Sunday morning because the wives proudly wear the corsage volunteers delivered to them the day before. A Valentine’s banquet immediately follows the church service. During the banquet, a slide show of the couples is presented. Beth and Scott have coordinated the corsage delivery for four years. Beth said they look forward to it each year. She believes it is a great way to bring people together and show the community how much the church values marriage. She feels these couples serve as a great example to our children at
10 ASBURY TIDINGS
observed by the young people in the church, some who may have parents that are divorced. This proves to the younger generations that people can stay married.” Much time and planning goes into this special weekend. Ruth Winn, the coordinator of the Care and Marriage Ministry, works diligently each year to find every couple in the church who will be celebrating an anniversary of 50 years or more. Last year, that list included 200 couples. Once she has the couples identified, Ruth sends her list to the Browns. They contact the volunteers who deliver the corsages. Scott then puts his computer skills to great use by grouping the addresses by zip codes and matching the addresses to volunteers who live nearby. This way each volunteer is assigned five or six deliveries close to their home to minimize the driving time involved in making the deliveries. Meanwhile, Beth orders the corsages and the flowers for the banquet. She works hard to find the very best flowers she can and stay within the budget, not easy during a time of the year where flowers are
at their highest demand, Charlene said.
have one delivered to them.
The volunteers pick up the corsages on Saturday
Charlene describes Beth and Scott as “faithful
morning and begin contacting the couples to set up
and dependable.” She said they fill a very crucial
a time to deliver them. Beth said they always have
role in the Care and Marriage Ministry. They found a
just the right number of volunteers because the As-
way to serve in the church during an extremely busy
bury community is so supportive.
time in their lives, plus they have found something
ing people together br to y wa t ea gr a is y… er liv Corsage de church values e th ch u m w ho ty ni u m m and show the co t example to our ea gr a as e rv se s ple u co e es marriage…th rce rate is so high. vo di e th en wh e tim a at n childre Many of the volunteers make this a family event
that puts their gifts to good use.
by including their children. This is also true for the
Volunteers are still needed to help deliver the
Browns. Beth and Scott’s two oldest children, Sarah
corsages on Saturday, February 7 and to help with
and Stephen, help deliver corsages. Their son, Mat-
the banquet. If you are interested in volunteering,
thew, is very good at organizing and helping during
please contact Ruth Winn at the 392-1146 or e-mail
the pick-up time. Beth and Scott also enjoy deliver-
her at rwinn@asburytulsa.org
ing the corsages. One of the many blessings of the ministry is visiting with the various couples. Beth said you hear some very inspirational stories about how the couples met, places they have lived, some of the things they have faced during their married lives and some great tips on staying married. Many of the couples are charter members of the church, so you also learn some interesting things about the history of Asbury. The wives really look forward to getting their corsages. For some, the corsage is the first gift they have had in some time because of an extended illness or the husband may be in a nursing home. Last year, Scott delivered a corsage to a woman in the hospital. Even though she was unable to attend that Sunday, she was so happy to get the corsage. Not all of the corsages can be delivered. The volunteers bring the corsages they could not deliver to the church on Sunday morning. Beth and Scott are always there early to make sure that they will have enough corsages available for anyone that did not ASBURY TIDINGS 11
n. I resolve to do all the good I ca
Finding Purpose in Pain The Life Hurts God Heals students find healing in a missions trip to help Hurricane Ike victims
marsha baker
S
“LHGH has helped me realize not everything that cars from past memories or habits can be a painful and em- happens is my fault and God has a bigger plan.” “I came to LHGH at first to support my friends, barrassing part of a Christian’s life. But as we learn who Jesus is, we but once I came I realized how much hurt I have
realize that He is able to give the pain in our lives
purpose. True healing comes when we can find forgiveness and no longer allow our wounds to control our lives. Life Hurts God Heals (LHGH) is a Bible Study for teens all about sharing scars and learning together the powerful message of the redemptive purposes of pain. It is two hours a week when hurting teens sit together and bravely work through their struggles, such as sexual abuse, suicide, death of a parent, abandonment, parents with addictions, cutting, pornography, eating disorders, depressions. The list goes on. Life Hurts God Heals is what church should be like, a place to be honest, to love, and to help one another through the toughest parts of life. It has transformed the lives of teenagers, just listen what it means to them:
12 ASBURY TIDINGS
been harboring.”
“I feel like LHGH has changed my heart and my attitude. I look forward to LHGH all week, it really allows me to vent about life.” “LHGH is the only time I can explain how I really feel.” “LHGH means everything to me, I look forward to it, and I wouldn’t be doing too well without it because anger would still be in my heart.” “I never miss a week, and if I have other plans I break them to come.” “LHGH makes me feel like an important part of God’s family.” “When I don’t come to LHGH I feel like everything’s messed up and I have a really bad week.” Life Hurts God Heals has become a community, a place of belonging for so many teens.
even though they normally
would
never even talk. Amazingly, they were able to break through types,
stereoage,
and
misconceptions and bond together in unity as young believers to touch people’s lives. “I got to know people that were different than me, I was able to see that other side of
we can no matter od go e th l al do to s u s se God u or healthy, just like He g in rt hu e, lif in at e ar we e wher ng others and lpi he in d An e. bl Bi e th in le did with peop much healing. so d fin n ca e on in pa eir th sharing in When the need arose to help those in pain from Hurricane Ike, my husband and I, Life Hurts God
people and what they are really like,” said Sofi, a
Heals leaders, knew these students needed to go.
LHGH member.
You see God uses us to do all the good we can no
Not only did God move in huge ways in the group
matter where we are at in life, hurting or healthy,
dynamics but also through the students serving
just like He did with people in the Bible. And in help-
those in need.
ing others and sharing in their pain one can find so much healing. So, over fall break, through God’s faithfulness, we loaded up 13 of these amazing LHGH students to
We did three days of ministry that included sorting and boxing supplies, distributing food and water to victims, gutting and cleaning two apartments, and helping a family prepare to rebuild.
embark on a Hurricane Ike relief trip to the Galves-
South Texas was devastated, the lives and
ton/Houston area. This trip was different than any
homes of so many people destroyed. For these
other student ministry trip because we had a mixture
LHGH teenagers, the destruction was heartbreak-
of students—different grades and ages and from
ing, but God gave it purpose, as we hoped, it
all different groups of friends. These students were
helped our students in their own healing pro-
forced to get to know one another and work together
cesses. ASBURY TIDINGS 1
“The missions trip helped me forget about my problems, become more humble and get over myself and my pride,” said Jeniffer. And Sofi explained that “the trip made me see that people go through a lot and lose many things, but still have joy and know it will be ok.” And for the people we served, seeing teenagers give up their fall break to do good showed them that Jesus cares about their pain. These students were a bright light of God’s hope in the hopeless moments of loss for these people. In the end, the most transforming thing for these students was to see that God heals our hearts and no matter what happens in our lives, even in the devastating destruction of a hurricane, we “It was amazing to see people love the Lord between all the hardship,” said Jeniffer, a LHGH member. God never causes the pain, but we can know as believers He will not waste it. Not only did the destruction open their eyes to God’s faithfulness, but this trip helped the hurting students grow closer to God. “It gave me a new perspective on life and it put into my mind that I have to serve my Lord anyway possible,” said Dylan, a LHGH member. Another student expressed that “seeing the damage and realizing how people’s lives had been so majorly affected and seeing them all come together to help, really struck me with a sense of community and love.” The destruction and serving these people truly transformed the hearts of the students. 1 ASBURY TIDINGS
must continue to do good and support others.
n. I resolve to do all the good I ca
Moving Mountains
Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God greg lynn
T
o
generalize
about
teenagers… author Ron Sider said, “The church should consist
they’re all selfish, thinking only of themselves.
Although it’s probably true even of “Christian
Teens,” we would like to attempt something different, something unexpected, something countercultural, something Jesus might ask of us. Breakaway Student Ministries got its name long ago with the idea that it would ask its students to “Breakaway” from the norm, “Breakaway” and be different, “Breakaway” and follow Jesus. Jesus did say, “if you want to save your life, lose it” and other similar things that broke away from the normal thought of his day and ours. Why shouldn’t we do the same? So with our annual Spring Break Missions trips, we ask our students to “Breakaway” from what could be easy to do—think of yourself, relax, have fun, enjoy yourself and your break. And while thousands do just that—Spring Break is synonymous with fun, partying and irresponsible activity -we ask our students to “Breakaway” and follow Jesus. Do something different. In his book, Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger,
of communities of loving defiance. Instead it consists largely of comfortable clubs of conformity.” We’re attempting to affect the way each student
matures as a Christian so by the time they have graduated they’ve “BrokenAway” from the norm, not comfortably conformed. It all starts even before seventh grade with oneday adventures with the FaithZone kids going to the Murdoch Village and other places. But as a seventh grader, the students spend a week helping various agencies within the inner city of Houston, Texas. Working with the homeless or helping an afterschool program, sorting medical supplies that are donated to help medical missions all over the world, these seventh grade disciples are challenged throughout the week to see, touch and feel the parts of our cities that most Christians pretend don’t exist. As an eighth grade student, our students get a look at an ever increasing problem in our country and world…rural poverty. As they experience living and working among some desperate situations in the hills of Red Bird, Kentucky, our students not only learn some new building skills but will also learn there is another face to the poverty they experienced ASBURY TIDINGS 15
do go thousands of miles away as they make their way to Guatemala City, Guatemala. Working with Iglesia Shalom, students build relationships with locals as they do construction and evangelism. We are expecting great things from God because we’re attempting great things for God. This year our goal for SBM Stock sales
which
helps
offset the cost of each of our trips is $85,000. Money raised through the SBM stock sales is used not only for a portion of SBM trips but also helps mission
projects
throughout the rest of the year.
in the inner city. Seeing that poverty affects both city and rural areas helps to prepare the students worldview for the next trip At ninth and tenth grade, our students experience the poverty of the world. As they travel to the border town of Reynosa, Mexico. Once they travel the short distance over the border, it seems to take them thousands of miles away. The bus ride is always very quiet as our students see and experience yet another level of pain and problems that poverty brings. By taking them to another country and culture, students get yet another view of God’s pain as he views the pain of our world and asks us to “be the change.” This trip also serves as a bridge for our incoming ninth grade students into the high school group. As juniors and seniors, our students actually 16 ASBURY TIDINGS
and culture, stury nt u co r he ot an to em th By taking s pain as he views the d’ Go of w vie r he ot an t ye t dents ge s to “be the change.” u ks as d an rld wo r ou of pain Although the SBM trips are impacting the lives of our students, we know that in order to maximize the impact, we must provide opportunities before and after and throughout the year. We want to promote “missional” living (lifestyle) rather than experiential high point living (the norm). So throughout the rest of the year we provide mission opportunities locally as well. David Livingston said, “God had only one son and He made that son a missionary.” We’re attempting the same with our “Breakaway” students. Has it worked? Here are a couple of first person accounts…you be the judge!
Stock sales start February 8 and end in March
of the • Stock Money pays for a portion nts. SBM. The majority is paid by stude ssions •Stock Money also helps fund mi projects throughout the year. 325 • During the last two years, over students have gone on SBM. • This year’s goal for Stock sales is $85,000 ASBURY TIDINGS 17
Dustin Curzon, age 22
Good is happening. It is often overshadowed by pain and suffering and indifference. But it is here and it is alive. Good happens when a young girl is rescued out of prostitution. Good happens when a student befriends a Bedouin tribe and dispels myths of hate. Good happens when a mother takes time to make scarves for the homeless. Good happens when a church works to give another family a home and a new start. There are men and women and students actively taking part in changing the world, and their actions have huge implications. Every person I have ever talked to about missions has been radically changed from their experience serving others locally, nationally, or globally. It is not possible to walk away from an experience like that without being changed at your very core. Participating in God’s plan through Spring Break Missions, and then later through other missions opportunities, opened my eyes to the continual battle of the church body to restore beauty to the world. Spring Break Missions taught me to see beyond my ethnocentric lifestyle. I matured more in those weeks than I did at any other time. There are a few moments in life when you realize that your core understanding of the world is called into question and everything you “know” changes in an undeniably real and substantial way. These are the moments that cause students to grow and become mature, influential adults. I am convinced that Spring Break Missions are essential to the existence of a healthy student ministry. The impact it has on students and leaders and families all over the world is incredible and undeniable. I am proof of this and there are hundreds, if not thousands, of students, leaders and parents that will back me up.
18 ASBURY TIDINGS
23 Kori Weidman, age
The Lord grabbed my heart for His world on my first Asbury Spring Break Mission trip to Mexico. My eyes were opened, and I was broken to see the poverty of the world and their need for Jesus. After interacting with the people there I learned I could never be the same, and I knew that missions and “going to all nations” would be an important part of my life from that point. The next year, 25 students and leaders from Asbury learned how to evangelize on the streets of Kingston, Jamaica. Performing an allegory of Jesus’ life several times a day, we saw hundreds of people give their life to Christ and some of us even rededicated our lives to the Lord. I will never forget the faces of the people I met in Jamaica and will always know the power of the Holy Spirit because of that week. As a senior, I was on the first trip the youth department took to Guatemala City, Guatemala. We did heavy construction for the communities that live and work in the largest trash dump in Central America. The poverty and the living conditions of the people we worked with were appalling. At that time, we could not imagine the work that God would do through Asbury by increasing the mission trip from 30 people to over 100 in six years. Throughout college and after college I have been a leader for Spring Break Missions and have experienced going to other places such as, Honduras, Azerbaijan, and Kenya. I have had the courage and opportunity to go to all of these places because of what the Lord has done in my life at a young age through SBM at Asbury. The SBM trips have played a significant role of forming who I am today, and I know it has for many others as well. Traveling to other countries to spread the Gospel to people who have never heard, and to help people in need, is a big part of my life because of what I have been taught through Asbury’s heart for missions.
ed. rm a w rt ea h y m ve a h to e lv I reso
The Giving of Gifts An author’s discovery of her Ultimate Dream
heather chabino
A
ha” moments invade each of our lives at different times and in a variety of ways. My “aha” moment
came in the form of Jim Stovall’s book, “The Ulti-
mate Gift.” The previous five years, I struggled to find my purpose in life. From outward appearances, I had a good marriage, two great kids, a nice house— all the things that looked like success. However, I knew deep in my soul that God planted big dreams in my heart, and I needed to find a way to release them. Stovall’s book showed me how to unleash the dreams of my heart. “The Ultimate Gift” inspired me to see life through new eyes—recognizing that lasting gifts are everywhere, and gift-giving encompasses more than doling out material goods. Gift-giving embraces character development through bestowing treasures that can’t be held by human hands. “The Ultimate Dream: A Child’s Gift-Giving Journey” offers the chance to become great by partaking in
of true gift-giving. As I began to envision the pos-
transcendent gifts-the gifts of giving, learning, fam-
sibilities for me, my children, and the world around
ily, work, friends, and dreams and the ultimate gift
us, I put together a plan to implement gift-giving
of a relationship with God.
the “Stovall way.” Along with my husband Doug,
Our journey began under the inspiration of the
and my dear friend and mentor, Sherri Watson, we
Stovall novel—his book propelled me into the world
together orchestrated a journey for my daughter ASBURY TIDINGS 19
Kenzie—an experience that turned out to be lifechanging for everyone involved. I share our story with you in the hope that you, too, will be impacted by this gift-giving journey. This book, “The Ultimate Dream: A Child’s GiftGiving Journey” shares our story, while offering practical helps for parents and families who want to implement a plan to change their perspectives, and ultimately, their lives. We share our journey with you as an illustration of how one family—ours—put into practice true gift-giving, and we also share in this book thirty gift-giving principles to help as you embark on your own gift-giving journey. My desire is to give parents everywhere a vision to see how they can influence their children for a lifetime and to provide the tools to get them started
’s Gift-Giving Journey” ild Ch A : m ea Dr e at im Ult he “T t by partaking in tranea gr e m co be to ce an ch e offers th g, family, work, in rn lea g, in giv of ts gif he scendent gifts-t ate gift of a relationship tim ul e th d an s m ea dr d an friends,
and others enter our lives to bolster our weak areas
on their journey to giving. Changing the way we
and to add fullness and beauty we wouldn’t possess
view gifts and gift-giving is the beginning of that
otherwise. Greatness exists in the world around us,
journey. Recognizing and seeking gifts along the
and we have the opportunity and privilege to share
way enables us to make a difference in nurturing
in it.
our children’s lives. When we develop eyes to see
Reading Stovall’s “The Ultimate Gift” was my
the gifts around us, we begin to understand what
divine appointment—my “aha” moment. Let this
this life is all about and the real meaning of a gift.
book—”The Ultimate Dream: A Child’s Gift Giving
We experience the passion of leaving a legacy for
Journey”—be yours. Be blessed, my friend, as you
those who come after us.
discover your ultimate dream.
Everyone comes into our lives for a reason—no meeting is accidental. Divine appointments make up the “coincidences” we encounter. I believe the reason we enter someone’s life is to bless them, 20 ASBURY TIDINGS
Reprinted with author’s permission from “The Ultimate Dream: A Child’s Gift Giving Journey,” by Heather Chabino and Sherri Watson. Early presale available a www. ultimatedreambook.com
Cleopas:
A Man from Emmaus John Westervelt
M
y name is Cleopas. I am an innkeeper in Emmaus. My business has been
good for many years because of my location just off the main road from Je-
rusalem to Joppa on the Mediterranean Sea. Many travelers, coming from the coast, stop at my inn for the night then leave early the next morning for their business in Jerusalem. My wife Mary and I regularly attend the local synagogue to worship Jehovah. Several months ago, an itinerant preacher named Jesus spoke at our synagogue. He read to us from our scroll of the prophet Isaiah. When He finished, He returned the scroll to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fixed on Jesus. From where He sat with His face in full view, He spoke where all could hear, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” Not all believed, but it was clear to me that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah. Mary also believed. Over the next several months, when travelers returning from Jerusalem would tell us that Jesus was in Jerusalem, Mary and I would go there to listen to Him teach. Soon Mary and I were telling all of our customers about Jesus and His teachings. Many were more interested in business; still, the number of followers increased as we shared our faith in Jesus.
On a Thursday near the spring equinox, I felt mysteriously drawn to Jerusalem. When I shared my feelings with Mary, she explained that she too had heard a small voice from within calling her to Jerusalem. The next morning, well before sunrise, we left so we would reach the city early in the morning. As we arrived in Jerusalem, we came upon a great crowd moving through the city to a hill on the outskirts of town and we followed along. Anguish overcame me as I could see that the Roman soldiers were preparing to crucify the Jesus we had come to know and love. When the soldiers nailed the spikes into Jesus’ hands, I couldn’t bear to look. Mary gasped then began to silently sob. I tried my best to comfort her, but I was in such a state of shock that I was of little help. We stayed at the cross until Jesus took His last breath. Normally Mary and I would have returned to Emmaus the same evening because of the needs of our business, but this time the Spirit spoke to us saying we should stay two nights with the other disciples. For most of the next day, we prayed with a large group of disciples for understanding. Our minds could not grasp why Jehovah would let our Messiah be crucified. On the third day, after a morning of prayer with the group, Mary and I began our walk home to Emmaus. ASBURY TIDINGS 21
As we walked slowly along, discussing the events in
glanced over at Mary as she walked stride for stride
Jerusalem, a stranger approached and asked, “May
with me, I could see the same joy on her face that
I walk along with you?”
had been there when Jesus broke the bread. Joy
“Yes, welcome.”
overflowed my heart too as I realized that I serve a
“What are you two discussing, and why does it
risen Savior.
make you look so sad?” Mary and I looked at each other then stood still
see that ld u co I as e m e m ca er ov Anguish g to crucify in ar ep pr e er w rs ie ld so an om the R now and love. k to e m co ad h e w s su Je e th
for a moment before I said, “You must be the only person visiting Jerusalem who does not know about the crucifixion of Jesus.” All the way to Emmaus, we shared with the stranger the happenings and our desolate feelings from the loss of our Lord. He, in turn, shared Scriptures with us. When we reached our inn, we invited our new friend to come inside for a rest and a bite to eat before He went on His way. Mary poured some wine and laid a loaf of her bread before our guest then joined us at the table. As soon as she sat down, our friend picked up the loaf, blessed it, and broke off a piece for Mary and one for me. With the breaking of the bread, a miracle happened. It was as if our eyes had been covered, and now we saw clearly. We knew now that it was indeed Jesus we had been speaking with, but as soon as we recognized Him, He vanished from our sight. I asked Mary, “Was your heart burning within you as was mine while He was speaking to us on the road about the Scriptures?” Mary and I knew that we must return to Jerusalem immediately so we could search out the eleven apostles and tell them the good news of the resurrection of Jesus. This time our journey was swift, and our hearts were light. As we went down the road together, I felt as though I could walk forever. When I
22 ASBURY TIDINGS
Based on Luke 24:13-35. This story and others can be found on www.jwestervelt.com under Jesus’ Friends.
asbury
opportunities general information Breakfast
please designate Asbury as your church. The after-hours pastoral emergency line can be reached by calling 492-1771, selecting option 2, and leaving a message for the pastor on call.
Served from 7:15-9 am in the
Engaged Couples
CLC. Come enjoy fellowship with
If you are planning to use an
Asburians along with fresh donuts,
Asbury pastor to officiate and/or
bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage,
use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to
eggs, fruit, and cereal. $2 for adults
book ASAP to allow ample time
& $1 for children 12 & under.
for Couple-to-Couple (required
Sunday Morning Worship 8 am, Mason Chapel
premarital sessions). Six months to one year lead time suggested.
(Traditional Communion)
The Gazebo is Open
9:15 am, Sanctuary
CDs of Tom’s “Message of the Day”
(Contemporary)
are available immediately following
9:15 am, CLC (Open House Wor-
the worship service for $3. Prayer
ship) (Acoustic Worship, Casual
Journals are also available for $5
Setting)
each.
11 am, Sanctuary (Traditional w/ sign interpreter)
Recycling
11 am, Venue 68 (Modern)
Recycle unwanted paper products.
Sundays for Children & Students 6 Weeks-4 Yrs: 8:00, 9:15 & 11 am K-6th Grades: 9:15 or 11 am 7th-9th Grades: 9:15 & 11 am 10th-12th Grades: 9:15 am only Adult Discipleship Communities
Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots. Asbury Family News is available at the Welcome Centers. It includes hospital lists, births, deaths, marriages, baptisms and military listings.
8:00, 9:15, & 11 am and Wednesdays, 6 pm and Shepherd’s Flock
Doors of Asbury posters are at the
on Tuesdays at 6 pm. NEW!
Welcome Centers…FREE! Suitable
“Footprints” on Sundays at 11 am
for framing.
for Single Ladies ages 30-55 (See Discipleship). Surgery or Hospitalization Scheduled? Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling Ruth at 392-1146 so your pastors can be in prayer for you. When you enter the hospital,
New Additions to the Library The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.
access Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6-7 pm, Rm. 2821 Friends in Christ Community Sundays, 11 am, Rm. 1507
bible study RoadMap All courses being offered in the Winter 2009 RoadMap session are listed on the Asbury website at www.asburytulsa.org and in the Winter brochure. Sign up and book distribution for Winter session will be on Sunday, January 4 before and between worship services!
care and support Pathways Through Grief Thursdays, January 8-March 12, 1:00-2:30 pm, room 2500. This audio series is based on Doug Manning’s book, “Don’t Take My Grief Away!” Once people who have experienced loss find themselves in a small, safe setting with others on a similar journey, they begin to find hope and healing with the help of new relationships. Call 392-1191 to register. Thrive Again! Wednesdays starting January 14 at 7 pm (after dinner) in room 2319. This scripturally based class, hosted by licensed counselor Jeff Rindt, features proven strategies for escaping the shame and hopelessness of divorce and renewing your faith in God and yourself. See how God can turn difficult situations into a catalyst for a better life. Come as you are and find acceptance, new connections, optimism and the ASBURY TIDINGS 23
motivation to be your best self. For
Divorce Recovery
more information, contact Beth at
more information, call Jeff at 742-
Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
392-1116.
7722. Call 392-1191 to register.
For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce
children
Visits to Asbury Members
and separation trauma. Childcare
Registration forms for all children’s
Asbury has a unique group of vol-
available.
activities are available in the
unteers (Asbury Connection) who
preschool and elementary lobbies.
regularly visit people who are either
Divorce Rebuilding
homebound or in nursing homes. If
Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335.
Core Childcare Hours
you are interested in being visited,
For those ready to rebuild their
Parents who are involved in
call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact
lives after separation or divorce.
RoadMap classes during these core
the coordinator, Abby Sluice at
Childcare available.
hours will have childcare provided
ozyanks2000@yahoo.com Prayer Card Sending Team Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10 am in Rm. 1621 to send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times. Cards and care packages are also sent to Asbury-related military personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com for more
for children 6 weeks-12 yrs. of age Grandparents Raising Grandchildren First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1506. Mental Health Support for Families For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. 4th Thursdays, 1:30-3 pm in the Parlor.
information, or call 392-1146.
Military Connection
Asperger Support Group
troops in harm’s way and their
First Thursday from 7-9 pm in Rm. 1506. For mothers of children with Asperger Syndrome. Childcare
Please join us in praying for our families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-re-
available.
lated military personnel. The Prayer
Alzheimer’s Support Group
Please send contact information
Third Thursday, from 1:30-3 pm in Rm. 1621. Christian hope, support and education for friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s or
Ministry also covers them in prayer. (complete name and address) to Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com or call 392-1146.
other dementia.
Asbury Bear Bags
Cancer Support Group
books have comforted young
Second Sunday of each month, 4-6 pm, Parlor. For those living with cancer and their family and friends.
Asbury Bear Bags with coloring children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear to someone who is grieving. For
24 ASBURY TIDINGS
with no reservations needed: Sun: 8 am-12 pm Mon & Tue: 9 am-12 pm Tue, Wed, & Thur: 6-9 pm Murdock Villa A mission opportunity for our 5th & 6th grade students. Usually the second Sunday of the month from 12:30-3:30 pm. Cost is $5 for CiCi’s Pizza. We’ll eat, then visit Murdock Villa where we will play Bingo and do crafts with special needs adults. It is an amazing time to witness in our local community. Limited to 10 kids each month. For further information contact Jami at 392-1166. Wednesday Night Live Wednesdays 7 pm – 8 pm, January 7-April 29, 4 year olds – 4th grade, beginning in their choir room and pick up in Chapel. Join us on Wednesday nights for worship in the Chapel—Kid Style. We will combine music, high energy, verse memory and a Bible lesson in a setting that encourages kids to learn about worship. Our lessons will tie right into what we are doing on Sunday mornings. Can’t wait to see you there! If you attended WNL this past semester, you do NOT need
employment
to re-register; otherwise you may
Books needed for the courses will
pick up a registration form in the
also be available for purchase at
Children’s Ministry area. For more
the sign-up tables, so bring your
information contact Amber Cox at
check book! Volunteers will be at
392-1171, acox@asburytulsa.org.
the tables before, between, and
PT Nursery Staff Positions Available Part-time position will work 1015 hours weekly in the Asbury
after worship services (beginning
Nursery. The schedule will include
at 8:45 am and ending shortly
Sunday morning from 8:30 am-
after noon) to assist with book
12:30 pm with a few remaining
purchases and to answer questions.
hours during the childcare weekday
Brochures with complete course
and weeknight core hours. Suc-
descriptions are at both Welcome
cessful applicant should have a
desks, Connection Corner, and in
love for children, willingness to
community classrooms, or check
portray Christian beliefs and values
out the Asbury website for listings.
to children and families. Resumés
The Winter 2009 session begins the
should be sent to Vicki Ihrig, Asbury
week of January 5.
UMC, 6767 S. Mingo Rd., Tulsa, OK,
5th & 6th Grade Bible Study & Crew Leader Service Wednesdays, January 7–April 29, 7 pm – 8 pm, 5.6 Room, Cost $8 for workbook. On Wednesday nights our 5th & 6th graders will be studying “From the Heart for Youth.” If they’ve ever wondered what their role is in God’s church, they won’t have to be confused anymore. Our 5th & 6th graders will learn how to serve from the heart and discover
74133 or call her at 918-392-1160.
the awesome and unique way God
Annual Asbury Community Leadership Conference
created them. They will spend most
Sunday, January 25, 5:15 – 8 pm,
of the 14 weeks in study, but will
CLC. After a brief opening time of
actually take what they are learning
food (hors d’oeuvres by Virginia!)
and serve during the Wednesday
and fellowship together in the CLC,
Night Live service with our younger
we will break out into special equip-
kids a time or two. Your early reg-
ping workshops designed for the
istration helps us have the correct
specific areas of ministry leadership
number of study books. If you have
in our communities. These will
any additional questions, please
include the following:
contact Jami Moss at 392-1166 or
• Co-Presidents
jmoss@asburytulsa.org.
• Believing Leaders & Small Group
discipleship
Coordinators • Becoming Leaders, including
Discipleship Communities
global & regional outreach leaders,
If you have not yet found an Adult
and heritage builders
Discipleship Community check out
• Prayer
“Get Involved” on our website,
• Member care
www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a
• Communications leaders
brochure at one of our Welcome
• Hospitality and Rush leaders
Centers.
• Attendance keepers Plan to attend this annual event
Roadmap Winter 2009 Book Distribution and Sign-Up
to help you be effective com-
Sunday morning, January 4, there
others! RSVP as a community
will be sign-up sheets at tables in the Main Foyer for each of the Winter 2009 RoadMap classes offered.
munity leaders and to learn from team through your Co-President by January 8.
endowments Leave a legacy that continues to give forever to a ministry you want to support. There are endowments that support many areas of Asbury’s outreach including children, youth, music, missions, and training of pastors as well as a General endowment. You can easily impact a ministry thru your will or a current gift. Contact Dwight Yoder at dyoder@asburytulsa.org or 392-1113.
marriage & family Dynamic Marriage Thursdays beginning February 19, 6:30-9 pm, room 2201. This is a 9-week interactive class that will help you replace old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment. Go from good to great, mediocre to magnificent or hurt to healed. $130/couple (scholarships available). $50 holds your spot. Childcare available. To register, contact Jackie or Ron ASBURY TIDINGS 25
at asburydynamicmarriage@
book ASAP to allow ample time
or Bible study, it is designed to help
windstream.net prior to first class.
for Couple-to-Couple (required
men come together, strengthening
Limited to first 12 paid couples.
premarital sessions). Six months to
each other through weekly sessions
one year lead time is suggested.
of Biblical teaching and small group
Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference March 20-22, 2009, hosted by FamilyLife Ministries at Marriott Southern Hills. Learn practical skills and biblical principles to strengthen and re-energize your marriage or prepare you for your upcoming marriage. To register, call 1-800-FLToday or go to weekendtoremember.com. Group rate of $89/person available until March 10 using group name “asburytulsa.” For more information, contact Asbury’s group coordinators, Charles and Cheryl Welch, at 254-1343. 8 Dates With Your Mate 2nd Tuesdays, February 10-September 8, 6:15-7 pm, RM 1502. Celebrate your marriage with conversation over dinner alone, or with another couple in the group. Gather to hear a variety of topics led by various speakers (30 minutes), then have dinner out. NEW TOPICS/SPEAKERS! Call 392-1191 to register. 50+ Anniversary Recognition Tom Harrison will recognize member couples married 50 or more years on Sunday, February 8 in the 11 am service. If you have not been previously recognized, contact Ruth at 392-1146. Corsage delivery teams and banquet help also needed. Attention Engaged Couples If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to 26 ASBURY TIDINGS
interaction. These time-tested Milestone Wedding Anniversaries
resources have equipped men all
Email your December or January
over the world to pursue noble
Milestone Anniversary (5,10,15,20,
manhood as a life-long priority.
etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at
Topics include “Seasons of a Man’s
brucetschutte@valornet.com or call
Life,” “Defining Manhood,” and
Ruth at 392-1146.
“Raising Sons and Daughters.”
membership Asbury Exploration Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, January 4, from 12:15-2 pm in CLC. Lunch provided and childcare is available for children six weeks through 6th grade. Call 392-1191 to register.
ages 18 and up are encouraged to participate. Men’s Fraternity: The Great Adventure Wednesdays, January 7–March 25, 6-8 pm, Room 1335, $10 fee. A follow-up course to “The Quest for Manhood,” this 20-week study explores a man’s world beyond the every day. It will help you find
men Men’s Prayer Breakfast Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the CLC. Attention men of Asbury. Make plans to join us for a great time of meaningful worship, lifechanging prayer and an awesome big breakfast, all for just $3 per person. First-time guests are free. January 7
Facilitated by Brent Colgan. All men
Dub Ambrose
January 14 Pec Clark January 21 Don Herrold January 28 Todd Johnson Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood Tuesdays, January 6–March 10, 6:15-7:30 am, Rm 2820, $10 fee. Fulfilling men’s need for a compelling vision of Biblical masculinity, this series teaches men how to live lives of authentic manhood as modeled by Jesus Christ and directed by the Word of God. More than just a rally
your “unique fit” in life—one that is realistic, thrilling and deeply satisfying. Through this series you will develop a personal mission that fits the “real” you, discover the best practices of successful men, and find out how to surround yourself with teammates to help achieve those goals. You’ll also learn to deal with unfinished business and how to leave a legacy of which you can be proud. Facilitated by Greg Ruley. All men ages 18 and up are encouraged to participate. Men’s Winter Retreat Friday, January 9, 7 pm - Saturday, January 10, 3 pm, Camp Egan. Attention Men of Asbury! Mark your calendars now for another AWESOME men’s retreat at Camp Egan, in Tahlequah! Not only will there be leadership and discipleship
presentations by key leaders at
and/or home improvement projects.
the believer to be sensitive through
Asbury, there will also be plenty of
To volunteer, contact Debbie in the
the cultural perspectives, and 4)
time set aside for kickin’ back and
Adult Ministries Office, 392-1177 or
challenges the believer to be wise
fellowshippin’ with some pretty
dwallis@asburytulsa.org
in their implementation of the Great
terrific guys…yourself included!
Commission through the strategic
Also, by popular demand, we are
Men’s Open Basketball
perspective. Contact Karen Wack-
bringing back the “rave review”
Fridays, 11:30 am – 1:15 pm, Gym.
enhuth, 298-1116, Melanie Burdick,
barbeque/cookout similar to what
Men! Make plans to join other
498-2420, or Mary Ann Smith,
was held at last winter’s retreat, on
Asbury guys and their friends each
392-1117 for further information.
Friday night! You DO NOT want to
week as we get together for a little
miss it! Registration cards are avail-
“round ball” and lots of fun! Come
Eyeglass Donations
able in the main office and at all
show us what you’ve got, and we’ll
Are you wondering what to do with
welcome centers. If you’re 18 years
have a great time of exercise and
those old eyeglasses? Donate them
of age or older, plan to be a part of
fellowship. Invite your friends, and
to missions! You may drop your
this life-changing experience!
we’ll see you on the court!
glasses off in the Global Outreach
office.
Sunday, February 15, 2009, 11:30
Perspectives on the World Christian Movement
Mission Matters
am – 2 pm. The Asbury Boy Scout,
Wednesdays, January 14 - May
sponsored by the men’s ministry,
6 (will not meet March 18) from
with recent news of mission hap-
would like to invite you to its 4th
6:30-9:30 pm, Rm. 1300, Family
Annual Spaghetti Luncheon Social!
Room (formerly Student Worship),
Come celebrate Scout Sunday with
Instructors: Varied, Cost: $210 for a
the scouts, and enjoy a generous
certificate (the basic course) or $420
serving of spaghetti, bread and
for undergrad/grad credit (Scholar-
salad with your family and friends.
ships for a portion of the cost are
The cost is just $5 per person,
available to Asbury members).
or $20 maximum per immediate
Child care not available.
family. Tickets may be purchased
Study the Biblical Foundation for
Sunday, February 1 & Sunday,
mission, history, cross-cultural
February 8, from 8 am - 12:30
education, and strategies for mis-
pm, or the day of the event at the
sion. Your life will be changed by
door. However, pre-purchasing is
all you learn! Undergraduate or
appreciated to help with planning!
graduate credit may be obtained
All proceeds will benefit the Boy
with this course. Speakers for the
Scouting programs of Asbury.
class come from around the United
Asbury Boy Scout Spaghetti Luncheon
missions/outreach
States and have international
A monthly newsletter is available penings. Preference is for the email version, but hard copies can be mailed if needed. If you would like to receive the newsletter, please contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163 or msistrunk@asburytulsa.org Global Outreach Prayer Ministry News and prayer requests from our missionaries and ministries are sent each week to our prayer ministry list. If you would like to join and become a prayer intercessor for those serving around the world, contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163.
missions/vim
Home Improvement Workday
experiences to share. The class is
Saturday, February 21. The Home
Volunteers-In-Mission Opportunities
open to the Tulsa community. If you
Improvement Ministry serves wid-
• January 11-18: Honduras, MBS &
are undecided, you can come to the
ows and single moms within the
Construction
first two classes free. Perspectives
Asbury family. Our men’s ministry
• March 28 - April 4: Monterrey,
1) convinces the believer through
volunteers make themselves avail-
Mexico, MBS & Construction
the Biblical perspectives, 2) teaches
able every other month to help
• Spring: South Texas, Men &
the unfolding story through the
folks out with minor home repairs
Women, Hurricane Ike Recovery
historical perspectives, 3) prepares ASBURY TIDINGS 27
• April 17-19: Cookson Hills, OK,
Children’s Choirs
Prayer Room Days & Times
Light Construction
Wednesdays, 6 pm, various
Our prayer rooms are accessible to
• April 22-26: South Texas, Men’s
you at these times:
Hurricane Ike Recovery
Asbury Power & Light
Mason Chapel (during construc-
• April 24-May 4: Azerbaijan, Con-
Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm. 1510
tion): Sundays, 7 am-12:30 pm
struction & Teaching • May 30-June 6: Ecuador, MBS & Construction • June 12-22: Estonia, Lighthouse • June 18-30: Tanzania, East Africa, Medical
Celebration Ringers Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm. 2506 Youth Orchestra Wednesdays, 5:30 pm
• June 26-July 6: Estonia, Camp
Asbury Ringers
Gideon, Youth Camp & Construc-
Wednesdays, 6-6:50 pm, Rm. 2506
tion
through the interior door. Main Facility & Venue 68: Mon.-Fri., 8 am-9 pm; Saturday, 10 am-3 pm; Sunday, 12:30 pm-9 pm. To obtain pass codes, call Debbie in the Adult Ministries office, 392-1177.
recovery Celebrate Recovery
• July 26-August 2: Honduras, MBS
Perpetual Light
Come join this supportive group
& Construction
Thursdays, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, Rm.
of people each Monday night at 6
• August: Estonia, Parnu, MBS &
2506
pm. Dinner at 6 pm; Worship from
Light Construction • August 26 - September 8: Tanzania, East Africa, Construction • Late October: Azerbaijan, Construction & Teaching • October 23-25: Cookson Hills, OK, Light Construction • October 24-31: Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction • November 4-8: Monterrey, Mexico, Medical • November 11-15: Rio Bravo, Mexico, Men’s Construction • VIM Team Leader Training: February 21 in Oklahoma City; September 19 in Bixby; October 24 in Clinton. For more about these exciting mission opportunities, contact Marilene Long at mlong@asburytulsa.org or
Saints of Swing Dixieland Band Thursdays, 2-3 pm, Rm 1510
prayer Altar Prayer If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or immediately following a worship service, please come to the altar rail. A pastor or member of the Altar Prayer Team will be glad to pray with you for your needs—physical, emotional or spiritual—at the altar or in the Prayer Room. Prayer Room Reservations The leadership of Asbury’s prayer ministry would like to remind you
392-1164.
that the main facility Prayer Room
music
desiring to pray in a quiet, medita-
Chancel Choir
is open not only to individuals tive atmosphere, but also to prayer
Wednesdays, 7 pm, Choir Room
groups within communities and
New Covenant Orchestra
Adult Ministries office a call at 392-
Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm, Rm. 1510
1177 to reserve the Prayer Room for
ministries. Just give Debbie in the
your group on a weekly or monthly basis. 28 ASBURY TIDINGS
7-8 pm; Small Groups from 8-9 pm; Dessert from 9-9:30 pm. Hiding any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God never intended for you to live in bondage.
senior adults Visits to Asbury Members Asbury has a unique group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are either homebound or in nursing homes. If you are interested in being visited, call Ruth at 392-1146, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at ozyanks2000@yahoo.com Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays from 9-9:30 am in the Gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for a time of stretching, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. No high impact workout here. We take it nice and easy. Come give it a try. Senior Walk in the Gym with Him Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
from 8:30-9 am in the gym. All
January 7. Space is limited to 50
insurance companies in most states
senior adults are invited to join us
pre-paid participants, so make sure
provide a multiyear discount to
for power walking, coupled with
you sign up early!
AARP graduates!
lots of fun and fellowship. Come give it a try. Asbury Singing Ambassadors Come enjoy fun and fellowship with other senior adults (60+), on Tuesday afternoons from 1-2:30 pm in the Sanctuary Choir Room. This awesome choir is made up of over 100 senior adults who sing on occasion during Sunday morning worship services and during for special occasions and holidays, as well as out in our community. No experience necessary…just show up and sing!
To sign up, call Asbury’s RegistraJanuary Tweenagers Program & Luncheon Thursday, January 22, 10:30 am – 1 pm, CLC. Everyone aged 55 and up is welcome to join us for our monthly Tweenagers meeting & luncheon. Lou & Dorothy Davis, missionaries to India, will be our guest speakers for the morning. You don’t want to miss this, and remember to invite your friends. Call the main office at 492-1771 to make your reservations BY NOON, Monday, January 19. If, during that week, you find you need to cancel, please also let us know as we need
Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art Tour
to give an accurate count to the
Wednesday, January 14, 9:30 am
make a donation for the meal when
– 12:30 pm. Cost is $10, includes
you check in that morning. Come
lunch. All senior adults are invited
join us for fun and fellowship!
cooks. Should you choose, you may
to join us on this fascinating tour of Tulsa’s own Museum of Jew-
AARP Driver Safety Program
ish Art, at 71st and Lewis (www.
Friday, January 23, 9 am – 5 pm,
jewishmuseum.net). The mission of
Rm. 2820. Cost is $12. The AARP
the museum is to educate about the
Driver Safety Program is the
Jewish experience in Oklahoma,
nation’s first and largest refresher
the United States, and the world.
course for drivers age 50 and older
Through exhibitions and educa-
that has helped millions of drivers
tional programs focusing on Jewish
remain safe on today’s roads. It is
culture, history, religion, and art,
designed to help you:
the Museum works to deepen un-
1. Tune up your driving skills and
derstanding of the Jewish people,
update your knowledge of the rules
their faith, and their history.
of the road.
We will depart from the church
2. Learn about normal age-related
by bus, at 9:30 am, and return at
physical changes, and how to
12:30 pm to a delicious hot lunch at
adjust your driving to allow for
Venue 68. The tour takes place from
these changes.
10 am - 12 pm. Registration forms
3. Reduce your traffic violations,
are available at the south welcome
crashes, and chances for injuries.
desk, and are due back with pay-
4. Drive more safely.
ment no later than Thursday,
5. Get an insurance discount. Auto
tion Hotline at 392-1191. At least 12 participants are required for the class to take place, so tell your friends and neighbors, and sign up today!
singles Singles Meet and Greet Sunday mornings from 10:20-10:50 am. All singles out from communities or worship services are invited to join together for a short time of fellowship. Look for us in the north café (former student café)! Hope to see you there! Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335. For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce. Childcare available. Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm. 1335. For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Childcare available. Singles Potluck Fellowship Sunday, January 25, 12-2 pm, Parlor. Come, bring your children and enjoy a delicious lunch, courtesy of your fellow singles! Just bring a “family-sized” food item, homemade or purchased! Great food, great fellowship, new friends …it just doesn’t get much better than that!
ASBURY TIDINGS 29
students
Bowl parties offsite February 1,
meet the first Wednesday night
contact small group leaders for
of every month from 7-8:30ish at
details.
Venue68.
Called to Ministry: 10th, 11th, 12th
women
Is God speaking to you, leading
Women of the Word
you...okay, maybe CALLING you
Wednesdays from 10-11 am in
times free candy and gift cards.
into a future vocational ministry?
Rm. 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson,
You may not know what that looks
teacher.
7th, 8th & 9th Bible Study
like; you just know that God is
7th, 8th & 9th Grade Breakaway Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t your normal Sunday school. Come join us for worship, fun and games, interactive talk/lesson, and some-
stirring something in you. Join
Crafty Ladies Fellowship
us every month on the SECOND
Mondays, 9:30 am - 2 pm, Rm 2820.
SUNDAY from 12:30-2 pm in the
Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and
Student Ministry Area for lunch and
fellowshipping at the same time,
to talk about what this means for
this activity is for you! We gather
words has for us.
you. This is for 10th, 11th & 12th
on Monday mornings to work on
graders. RSVP to Amy at 392-1156
our own individual arts and crafts,
7th, 8th & 9th Small Groups
the Thursday before.
stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch,
Wednesday night Bible Study is the place to be from 6:30-8 pm on Wednesday nights beginning Sept 10. Come to the Venue and hang out, have fun and study what God’s
Don’t miss our on being a part of a small group! It’s a place to grow in your relationship with Jesus, have some accountability, and just have fun! 7th and 8th grade meet from 4:30-6 pm and 9th grade meets 6:15-8 pm in the Venue68. (It’s never too late to sign up, just come by
and continue on through until 2 pm. 10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway
We have a wonderful time together,
Join us every Wednesday at
and would love to have you join
Venue68 for a time of connection,
us! For more information, contact
worship, and God. We will also
Beverly Clarke, and stop by some
have nights of just random fun!
Monday and check us out!
Don’t miss the food and hang out times afterwards! Come be a part.
Student Ministries Area!)
6:30-8:30ish pm.
7th & 8th SBM Leaders Meeting
Life Hurts, God Heals
If you are a leader on the Houston or Red Bird Missions trips please meet in the Venue after church on January 11 for a leaders meeting til
Starts January 14. Life Hurts God Heals is a Bible Study for teens all about sharing hurts and learning together the powerful message of
2 pm (Lunch provided)
the redemptive purpose of pain. It
7th & 8th Grade SBM Payment Due
teens can sit together and bravely
Don’t forget, January 25 if your student is going on the 7th grade trip you own $100 and if your student is going on the Red Bird trip you own $125 (make checks payable to Asbury). 7th, 8th & 9th Super Bowl Parties 789 Small Groups will have Super 30 ASBURY TIDINGS
is two hours a week when hurting work through their struggles. All teens 7th -12th grade are invited. Every Wednesday night 6-8 pm, meet in the upstairs green room of the Venue. Metro Worship All 7th-12th graders come join youth from all over the city in a night to just worship Jesus. We
UMW January Luncheon & Program Thursday, January, 8, 11:30 am – 1 pm in the CLC. Attention ladies! The program planned for January’s luncheon will be “Organizing & Simplifying Your Home Office,” by Judy Branham. A delicious luncheon prepared by our church hostess, Virginia, will also be provided for just $6 per person. Bring a friend, and be a part of the blessing! An Evening for Women with Pastor Darlene Friday, January 23, 6:30 – 9 pm, Sanctuary. Do you know without a doubt that Christ wants to receive you just as you are right now? The Samaritan woman brought her
empty jar to the well to be filled. She also brought her empty self, little suspecting that it too would be filled that day. Do you know the ‘Living Water?’ Join our very own Pastor to Women, Darlene Johnson, as she teaches on “The Woman at the Well.” We will begin with coffee, tea and homemade desserts in the foyer at 6:30 pm, and then enjoy the message and music until 8:30 pm. All women are welcome! For more information, please call 492-1771.
worship • 8 am, Communion Service: Mason Chapel. Traditional service. Communion is served and Dr. Harrison preaches. • 9:15 am, Contemporary Praise & Worship: Sanctuary. Music, time of prayer and the message will all carry a prevailing theme for the morning. Dr. Harrison preaches. • 9:15 am, open house Worship: Community Life Center. A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor. • 11 am, traditional Service: Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir and the Asbury Orchestra and Concert Band offer a variety of styles of music. Sign interpreters for the
… y r o t s a s a h e Everyon
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deaf are offered. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches. • 11 am, Modern Service: Venue 68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the worship band. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast.
ASBURY TIDINGS 1
asbury
new members
Carolyn Bannister
Marissa Bruce, Jack & Max
Michael & Julie Gately
Christian Fleisher & Martha Hyde
Scotty & Alicia Harper, Ava & Maggie
Robin Herndon
Lynn Marchbank, Savannah
32 ASBURY TIDINGS
Judy Johnson
Amanda Martin
Kathy Carson, Roger
Kelly Guion
Scott & Erin Kiker
Aaron & Cindie Milford
welcome to asbury
we’re glad you’re here
Robert & Liz Miller
todd & angie Ray, Madelyn, Payton, Spencer & Joshua
bob & beverly Spears
nathan & Cara taylor, Mercedes, tyler, Rylee
Carla Stretch
Ken Wells
Jason & amanda Sanderson
Mark tams
Mike Wheeler
Lora Wise
if you are interested in learning more about who we are, plan to attend one of the exploration classes designed to tell you more about asbury and what we believe. Choose from one of the upcoming Sunday membership classes: January 4 • february 1 • March 1 • april 5 • May 3 Classes are from 12:15 - 2 pm. Call 392-1191 to reserve your place. Childcare is available and lunch is provided. ASBURY TIDINGS
asbury
family room in celebration of marriage 55 years
65 years
al & Ruth Meyer January 28, 1944
neil & dolores Willits January 6, 1944
floyd & vida bruntzel december 13, 1953
50 years
Gary & dorothy van fossen January 1, 1959
we celebrate
John & Judy Marquis January 24, 1959
• Sophia Katherine Renfrow, daughter of Garth & natalie Renfrow, born october 8 • Kate noelle davis, daughter of adam & barbie davis, born november 6 • Joslynne Sophia bell, daughter of Jake & Jessica bell, born november 24
we remember
• Stacy Reinkemeyer, daughter of adrienne Reinkemeyer, died november 15 • audra (Ruthene) alexander, wife of John, died november 19 • William Clark Johnson iv, infant son of Will & Katy Johnson, grandson of bill & Jodie Johnson, died november 29
ASBURY TIDINGS
s e l p i c s i D e k a M ‌ d o G Glorify