Asbury Tidings - The Way to Life

Page 1

Asbury

TIDINGS JANUARY 2010

T

he term “I Am,” is not

new to John’s gospel, but is found in the Old Testament first. When Moses encountered the bush that was burning but was not consumed he “turned aside.” That is an interesting concept in itself. He had been out tending sheep when something unexpected appeared before him. Distracted and confused, he heard God speak to him. He was commanded to take off his sandals for he was on holy ground. Then God commissioned him to return to Egypt. This was “I Am” most distressing to MoWe begin 2010 with a ses, as he was a fugitive sermon series from a from Egypt because he saying of Jesus in John’s had murdered an EgypGospel: tian. He was afraid to January 3 return. He had to be “I Am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35-40) thoroughly convinced January 10 that this was a wise “I Am the Light of the World” (John 8:2-12) course of action.

It’s no January 17 wonder that he offered “I Am the Gate” (John 10:1-9) five excuses to God as January 24 “I Am the Good Shepherd” (John 10:10-21) to why he was unfit to January 31 be “the man.” His first “I Am the Resurrection and the Life” excuse was: Moses said (John 11:17-26) to God, “Suppose I go to February 7 “I Am the Way, Truth, and the Life”

the Israelites and say to them,‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me,‘What is his name?’

Then what shall I tell them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” (Exodus 3:13-14).

When Jesus said he was these seven things (bread; light; gate; good shepherd; resurrection and life; the way, truth, and life; true vine), he was intentionally linking back with the very Name of God in Exodus 3.

The Greek language is interesting in John: “ego eimi.”

Literally, we would say, “I...I am.” It is a double emphasis upon the personal pronoun,“I.” When Jesus said,“I Am,” He not only refers to the “I Am” something…the “I Am” is sufficient within itself. By phrasing it this way, each and every one of these statements by Jesus is a direct claim to being God. That Jesus is like something (bread, light, gate, etc.) is secondary to the primary emphasis:“I am.” Jesus IS God. That is the central claim being made.

I’m not “over” Christmas. I don’t mean “over” the shopping – I mean the concept of Christmas. John said it best in these astounding words: The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14) God has shown up in the neighborhood. This is why we worship. Come and worship with us!

(John 14:1-7)

February 14 “I Am the True Vine” (John 15:1-8)

3.

4.

6.

8.

10.

12.

14.

What’s Happening The Most Broken New Year Resolution The Lucky Life Humpty Dumpty Leads Women to the Lord Super Care Sunday Gift of Today The Way To Life

16.

18.

20.

21.

34.

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

Resolved Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson Coming Out of the Darkness taralynnthompson.com What Is God Like?

Graphic Designer Jonathan Van Risseghem Opportunities jonathanvanrisseghem@gmail.com New Members

Photographer Don Kreutzweiser donsimages.com Guest Contributors Diane King, Sylvia LaRose, Dwight Yoder, Stephanie Locher, Nikki Boyde, Debbie Wallis, Jessica Dyer, Kim Beair, Üllas Tankler, John C. Westervelt Page 2

by Dwight Yoder, Executive Director

H

appy New Year!

The close of one year and the start of another is one of my favorite times. I enjoy reflecting on the past year and planning for the new one. The goal, of course, is to measure and plan for progress.

In December you received a mailing that contained a brief overview of Asbury’s ministry accomplishments.

I’ll not repeat that information here but, rather, look ahead.

First, consider the Tidings publication. Do you know we now print almost 6000 copies each month? We know that many copies are never read. In order to be good stewards of our dollars and the environment we want to get copies only to those who wish to receive them. Therefore, we will be moving to a free subscription plan. There is no cost; we only want to know if you wish to continue to receive Tidings. This subscription plan will begin with the May issue. Very soon we will communicate the means by which you can subscribe.

together, a great way to teach children. Service to others is also a great witness to our Faith. For those interested in more information about some guiding principles For this expanded ministry, I will point you to a book that Tom is recommending: When Helping Hurts

by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. We are excited about the possibilities for this ministry. You will begin seeing results of this effort in 2010.

Tom spoke several times in 2009 about his desire to build an endowment for the support ofAsbury’s ministry work. He believes, and I fully agree, that this is an area of huge untapped potential. Many Asbury members would like to see a portion of their estate serving the work of the Kingdom long after they are gone from this earth.

I hope that all of you know that Asbury has a statement of what we are trying to accomplish. We call it our MVO (Mission, Vision, and Objectives). You can find it on our web site under “About Asbury” then “What We Believe.” Everything we do is driven by our MVO. Yet we know that most of our membership is not In 2008 we completed a long range planning exercise involving laity, staff, and pastors. The purpose was to aware of the opportunities to do so. As an example, determine how Asbury can best make progress on our we have a fund in honor of Bill Mason that provides scholarships for Oklahoma students attending semiMVO over the next several years. nary at Asbury Theological Seminary. This fund has A major result from that study was the desire of As- helped many seminary students over the past several bury members to increase the scope of our already- years. We will continue to communicate this desire of successful local outreach ministry (currently called Okla- Tom’s along with the opportunities. If you are interhoma Outreach). The plan for this expansion is coming ested in more information, please visit with me. together. It will, of course, directly address Objective 8: Every member discovering and using spiritual gifts for Many things are going well for Asbury. I expect all ministry and mission. But it will also help with other of our ministries to make progress again in 2010. Our Objectives. Effective local outreach offers opportuni- success is possible because of the support and dedities for Asbury members to connect with one another. cation of our membership, our staff, and our pastors.

For some, it is their first experience in service. Some Thank you for your contribution of prayer, time, and money for the development of disciples. opportunities are suitable for families to serve

Page 3

The Most Broken New Year Resolution -You know what it is...

by Diane King Ah, January! The time of new beginnings. New year, new month, new day, new life. It’s time to reflect on how this year will be different from the last. Time to set goals, look in the mirror, take stock, and ask, ‘what do I want from this year?’

If I smoked, I would vow to quit, but I don’t, so that won’t work. I’ve thought about taking it up, though, because all the people I see smoking are skinny. I figure they are smoking instead of eating. So, maybe that’s the answer. “NO,” you say, “you will ruin your health!

Smoking is so bad for you! All these major health problems are caused by it, like heart disease, high blood pressure, fatigue, breathing problems …” Sort of like, say, being overweight?

The Holy Spirit has been convicting me of my neglect in taking care of my own body. I have been wrongly thinking it is “spiritual” for me to put others first while not taking care of myself. He directs my attention to I Corinthians 6:19-20, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” Ouch.

In order to get myself into better health, I can eat fewer calories this year and cut back on the eating (which sometimes happens and sometimes doesn’t,) and I can exercise more.That’s it! I will start exercising! This is the year! I will end up 2010 being fit and healthy and buff. No more couch potatette. I’m going to MOVE more!

Off to the health club I go. I read the 13-page contract that says they can come take my home if I stop paying, or something like that. I just hope the guilt of what I’m paying will make me go. I set my alarm to get up two hours earlier. That way, I can go work out, shower, get cleaned up and ready for the day, and still get to work on time.

Then something weird happens. My car becomes possessed! As I pull out of the parking lot, it won’t go where I am telling it to go. I fight the steering wheel, but it is too strong for me. Like the old mare at the riding stables, it sees the barn and it heads for home at a gallop. Whoa, Bessie! WHOA! Before I know it, I am in the garage. Dang. I hate it when that happens.

After a few days of this routine, I decide to stop being a wimp. I will not let this control me. I will take control of my health. I will! And I’ll show Bessie who’s boss.

I get in the car after work, gym bag in the trunk with workout clothes, weightlifting gloves, water bottle, iPod and earphones so I don’t have to sweat to gangsta rap (like it’s not hurting enough to exercise.) I crank her up and show that baby I’m strong. “I am woman, hear me roar!”

Turn left, turn left, NOT right! I gird up all my willpower and pray to Jesus to do the right thing, and lo and behold, Ol’ Bessie heads away from home and to the gym. That’s the first and most important step of the battle, just getting there.

I change clothes and get all situated, choosing a treadmill for cardio workout that is near a fan, preferably within three inches and pointed right at my face. I know it’s January, but this old gal runs around 150 degrees at any given moment, and it doesn’t matter how cold it is outside. I don’t want to melt the rubber belt off the treadmill, so I do what I gotta do.

Fan’s on, blowing at top speed in my face. Water bottle sits atop the treadmill speedometer thingy, earphones plugged in to my ears to block out Lipton T or C-Pack or M & NOP or whoever is pretending they can make “music” on the loudspeaker. Sheesh. Sing it to me, Point of Grace! Help me praise Jesus while I suffer here!

Now I have to input all the “data” into this silly machine. Which workout do I want? Manual? Trail Blazer? Forest Path? Where is the one where you can sit down? Since there isn’t one of those, I randomly select something.

What Level do I want? Why, Level 1, of course. Do you think I’m stupid? How many minutes? Hmmm.

Page 4

How many can I do without passing out and end up getting flung off to the floor? I’ll start with 20 minutes. No, the doctor told me to try to walk at least 40 minutes a day. I compromise and select 30. How much do I weigh?

What? Why does this thing need that kind of personal info? I’m going to lie, you know.

Wait.What if it calibrates when you step on and it knows you’re lying and a buzzer goes off or something? Okay, I’ll put in that number (whatever it was the last time I was brave enough to look), but not until Miss Skinny Chick on the machine next to me who is running like her pants are on fire isn’t looking anywhere near my hemisphere.

The treadmill begins to whir into action. It’s going really slow, so I think, “Hey. I can do this.This isn’t so bad!” After a minute or two of warming up, I get braver and speed it up. Clipping right along and feeling good, I’m thinking I’ve got it made. I get to sweating pretty good, drinking my water as I go and humming with “Blue Skies.” (Maybe I did get a little too loud on that as Skinny Chick gives me a funny look.) Surely by now it is getting close to the 30 minute mark as everything is tired, I’m all sweaty, and feel like I’ve just climbed a mountain.

I look at the stat screen, and it tells me I’ve been on it five minutes. You’ve got to be kidding. But look! It tells me how many calories I am burning! HEY! Now that is motivating! Look at that number go!

I actually made it to the 30-minute mark, but not before I saw my life flash before my eyes. I began to feel a bit light-headed, my hands were a little shaky, and I realized it had been five or six hours since I had last eaten. Not smart. But the reward was on the screen…

I had burned 200 calories!

Hallelujah!

I wobble to the locker room, hoping nobody notices how unsteady I am, and fumble trying to put on my sweatshirt and pack up my gym bag. It becomes obvious that I will not make it all the way home in this shape.

I will have to stop at the nearest Stop and Rob and get some juice or something for my blood sugar crash.

I find one close by, stumble into the store and grab a bottled orange juice from the drinks frig, making notes to myself not to try this on an empty stomach again. Nothing has ever tasted so good as that bottle of orange juice.

Back in the car, I finish off the juice and feel the shakes slowly leave me. I feel good, but tired, and know I will probably hurt a little tomorrow for using muscles that forgot they were there. But I was happy.

I did it! I beat Ol’ Bessie, I took control of my health, I got active, and I burned off 200 calories! YES! As I turned the key and started the car, I picked up the empty juice bottle to throw it in the trash. It was then I noticed the writing on the back. Next to the ingredients were the magic words,“200 calories.”

Page 5

Tomorrow I will go to the garage sales and find a stationary bike someone has been using to hang clothes on. The club can have my house.

THE

LUCKY

by Sylvia LaRose

LIFE

Then spoke Jesus again unto them, saying “I am the light of the world.

He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” (John 8:12) If you’ve ever been inside a casino, arcade or gaming event, you’ve seen plenty of lights. Flashing, twirling, multicolored lights. But if you look closely, you may see one light that shines brighter than all the rest. And that’s the light of Jesus shining through Asbury member Karl Suggs.

With deep roots in Tulsa, Karl has always been an outgoing, entertaining “people person.” In his younger days, he worked as a rock ‘n’ roll DJ, actor, played in a band, and even performed as an Elvis impersonator.

Several years ago, Karl took early retirement from being a Union Public School administrator for nearly two decades. But his departure wasn’t to spend his golden years relaxing, it was to take a new job with Video Gaming Technologies (VGT), a company which provides slot machines to casinos in Oklahoma and coast to coast. With this new line of work, he’s taken on a new identity as “Mr. Moneybags,” a character from one of his company’s games.

“They wanted someone middle-aged, that’s me,” chuckles Karl. “And someone a little overweight, me again, to give away prizes at various properties and tradeshows. Well, I’m not afraid to make a total fool out of myself!”

Karl had some doubts, however, and says he prayed long and hard about taking a job in the gambling industry.

Was it the right thing to do?

“Jesus went out to show the right way to everyone,” explains Karl. “He was not afraid to go out and meet all walks of life and show them the right way to live.” So Karl said “yes” and began his service to the Lord as Mr. Moneybags.

Karl accepted Christ into his life at age 13. But a few years ago, he fell away from his Lord and Savior. He says he became a broken man.

“It’s our loss when we can’t follow,” says Karl. “But God kept wrapping His loving arms around me and he led me to Asbury. That’s where God wants me – and I haven’t fallen away since.”

Page 6

As a Christian, Karl surrounds himself with other believers in Asbury’s Mosaic community. But he also brings the light of God to the unchurched – in fact, to everyone he meets. It’s his happiness. Karl is glowing with the Spirit.

“I meet a lot of Christians and non-Christians in places where I work,” says Karl. “God tells us, we are to go out and witness and be the example. So when someone asks why I’m so happy, I’m glad to tell them.”

When a stranger inquires, “How are you?” he simply replies, “I’m blessed. How ‘bout you?” He calls it his God nudge. And that creates the perfect opportunity to talk about God and Asbury. “Where do you worship? Do you have a church home?” Karl loves talking about the Lord.

“If you follow His lead – you can’t go wrong,” Karl says. “He is the light. And I hope people would see a little bit of Jesus in me. Happiness, peace, calm – and say I want some of that!”

Karl never knows who he will meet in his line of work or how the Lord will show the way. While performing at a recent convention, he interacted with some of VGT’s female characters, including a lovely vision named “Hot Red Ruby.” Turns out, “Ruby” was a nurse going to school, who also played keyboards at Asbury.

“We made a connection,” Karl describes. “We could fellowship together and bring others into our happiness.”

The Bible says: I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). That’s a verse Karl lives by every day. He hopes that by living like Jesus, the Lord will continue to strengthen his commitment to the Holy Spirit and to open doors of service.

In addition to his plan to spread the Word on the job, Karl will also help minister to Asbury members by taking a leadership position in his Mosaic community. He says the Sunday morning group is a great home for young, old, singles or couples to come together. Just like life.

Another motto Karl shares with non-believers when he invites them to church is, “Give it 30 days.You will be touched and spoken to.” He is confident that the more people who hear the welcoming voice of God, the better we will all be. For then, can we truly touch lives and bring light to the world.

It’s the spark that makes Mr. Moneybags (aka Karl) shine so bright.

Page 7

HUMPTY DUMPTY L leads women to the

ord

by Stephanie Locher

family went through This last year our a season of change where

the Lord was doing a new work in our lives as uncertainty loomed ahead. With the potential changes, we were unsure which direction to go. The choice we had was how we chose to respond in our hearts and attitudes. We decided that in the face of change, we would commit to serve Christ by serving others.

While the coffee was warming their soul (coffee lovers you know what I am talking about!), the Holy Spirit was warming their hearts. As I serve them coffee, I am praying that they feel God’s love to know how special they are, and I encourage them that God loves all his daughters.

Not knowing how this would impact us and fearing the worst, we felt like this was a test for us - not about circumstances but about trusting God. I was faced with turning to the familiar friend of worry and fear, or I could choose to immerse myself in God’s presence.

My husband encouraged me to discover and walk out the purpose of my life in this season. He said I had something to give. So, I began looking for people to serve in my everyday routine, whether at Starbucks or the clerk at the grocery store. God began bringing people to my attention that have always been there, but now I saw my time with them as a God ordained moment. I tried to let them know someone cared. I felt like God was showing up in an otherwise mundane daily schedule.

Then, fellow Chaplain Mike Hardgrove told me about a program he wanted to restart at the David L Moss Correctional Center and thought I might be interested in it. Being a former teacher and having a passion for women, I thought it was a perfect service for me.

In January 2008, I started going to the jail each week and doing “Storytime“. Storytime is a program where the inmates choose a donated children’s book, and I record them reading to their child. I send the book and cassette tape to the child’s home so they can hear their mommy reading them a bedtime story while they are away.

I start our Storytime by serving them coffee. As I give them sugar and flavored creamer, I discovered it was not the coffee that made the impact.

One of the girls wrote a letter saying, “Thank you for making me feel like a person and not an inmate”.

“I am praying that they feel God’s love to know how special they are...”

As each mother begins to read to their child, tears turn into a tender mother missing her child.After completing the book, I ask them if I can pray with them and very few have turned me down. At that moment, their heart is open to receiving from the Lord since they know this might be the last time they can read to their young child.

Page 8

she did not know how to pray, so ChapOne girl told me that lain Hardgrove and I prayed with her to

receive the Lord as her Savior. I had just finished reading The Shack previously and gave it to this girl. There was one copy of The Shack in the library for about 800 inmates, yet every time they came in they would ask for it. We bought a few copies for them and then realized this was bigger than us. My husband called the publisher and they sent two cases to the jail and stories started to come in as people began to see God in a new light.

“I was desperate for God’s attention in my life. I wanted answers...”

One girl stayed up all night to read it and she said because Jesus forgave her, she started to make amends with the people she needed to forgive. She went to girls in her pod asking their forgiveness and wrote letters of forgiveness to others. Not only are children being ministered to, but it is wonderful seeing these girls’ spiritual hunger grow in the Lord.

Little did I know how this would impact my life. I thought I was going to serve, but I soon found I was the one being blessed.

I realized that wherever I am in my journey with Christ, He has a plan and purpose there for me to discover. What started as a welcomed distraction from my circumstances, turned into a blessing where I saw Christ show up in a county jail.

He also, however, showed up in me. The worry that used to be a part of my life has been replaced with a newfound strength and trust in Christ.

One morning, I told my husband l felt like I wanted to stomp on God’s big toe to get His attention. As irreverent as that might sound, I was desperate for God’s attention in my life. I wanted answers, but instead I found His presence with peace that I could not comprehend as I saw these girls experiencing Christ’s peace within their circumstances.

I send out anywhere from 30 to 50 books a month to hurting children who get to hear their mother reading them a bedtime story. Who would have thought that a Humpty Dumpty book could lead a woman to the Lord and forever change her life!

Page 9

Sunday Super Care

Are you ready for some food drive?

by Nikki Boyd

When Jesus saw the multitude of people gathering on the hillside, His first response wasn’t to teach or preach. Instead, His heart was stirred by their physical hunger, and He met that need for food in the most unexpected way – through the humble gift of a little boy’s lunch.

It’s interesting that this feeding of the 5,000 is the only miracle of Jesus that is recorded in all four gospels. And if feeding the hungry is that important to God, seems that we should take notice.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma is the fourth hungriest state in our nation. Fourteen percent of Oklahomans are “food insecure” – hungry due to lack of money for nutritious food. And, one out of every five of our children goes to bed without having something to eat.

“The stress level and the feeling of despair are very high with most of the Restore Hope clients I see,” said board member Lyndle Ellis. “I have seen cases involving young women and children whose husband and father has been deported to Mexico leaving them behind struggling to survive financially and emotionally. Or ordinary working couples who have lost their jobs and are now destitute; their cars repossessed and houses in foreclosure.They typically have never had to ask for help from anyone before.”

He adds, “After spending a little time with these folks, giving them a few words of encouragement, praying with them and giving them some food and clothes, I hear the comment, ‘Thank you, I feel better now’. Restore Hope Ministries is truly restoring hope to many people.”

Times are difficult. Economic struggles, loss of a job, health and family issues can quickly turn into situations where the basics of food and shelter are taken from families.Those who have a support system have someone to walk beside them through these crises. But for those who have no one to turn to it can seem hopeless.

That’s where Restore Hope Ministries comes in.

Their name embodies their call – to restore hope to families in financial and spiritual crisis. “Restore Hope Ministries remains committed to our mission to reduce poverty, end hunger, prevent homelessness, and to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with a hurting world,” says Larry Johnson, Executive Director. “We are making a difference, one family at a time.”

Page 10

Though providing food

is a crucial part of this ministry, Restore Hope offers a comprehensive package of services to reach its goals. Their programs are designed to achieve their two-fold purpose: equipping families to help themselves restore their economic and spiritual vitality and engaging congregations to serve families in need.

And that’s where Asbury comes in. For the past two years, Super Bowl Sunday has been our designated “Super Care Sunday” to help feed Tulsa’s hungry and support Restore Hope Ministries. Last year’s effort proved to be an amazing example of how God blesses our giving. Super Care Sunday 2009 brought in 14,700 pounds of donated food.The $23,700 of financial gifts given provided 52,667 additional pounds, making it a total 67,367 pounds of food collected. (Which almost doubles the total pounds of food given in 2008.) Through this generous giving, 2,591 families were served, 81,621 meals were provided, and five months of programs were covered financially at Restore Hope.

“The motivation behind our efforts to provide food is grounded in the life and example of Jesus...”

On February 7, we will again fill a semitrailer with non-perishables. You can get involved. Throughout January, bring your food donations to any of the Super Care Sunday displays located at each entrance and at the Venue.Volunteers will also be on hand to take financial gifts at that time. Or, on Sunday, February 7, look for the semitrailer in Asbury’s parking lot. Volunteers will be there ready to take your donations.

You can even go to Sam’s that day, purchase your food items and leave them there. Purchases made by Asbury members will be secured at the store and delivered to the truck for you.

“The motivation behind our efforts to provide food is grounded in the life and example of Jesus,” Larry said. “He set the standard and asked His followers to ‘go and do likewise’. Jesus made it personal; He let us know that when we feed the hungry we are feeding Him. “We at Restore Hope remember Jesus and thank Him each time a person offers an item of food and we share that food with those God sends our way,” he added. “Jesus fed the multitudes and He allows His followers to participate in the joy of caring for those whose souls and bodies need nourishment.

“The joy of feeding our hungry brothers and sisters is an affirmation that we have participated with Jesus in this simple but profound act – ‘They will eat when we eat, they will give thanks when we give thanks’. The true ‘Bread of Life’ is present during it all.”

Page 11

Gift Today of

A story of resurrection from a deadly diagnosis

by Debbie Wallis

Angi stopped eating put and

down her fork stared at me with grief-stricken eyes. Tears welled up and her hands started to tremble as I began the story that has changed my life. Even though I first told her “it ends well”, 47 years of being sisters alerted her that something was still wrong. She reached across the table and laid her hand on mine.

I continued my story.

On Friday, October 2, I underwent my first colonoscopy. At 53, I was well aware I should have done it sooner. My doctor reminded me every six months that I didn’t need to keep putting it off.

“Well, I stay on top of all the other medical checks that are recommended every year and nothing’s ever been wrong,” I thought. “Surely the one I haven’t had yet wouldn’t prove to be a threat.” I’ve never gambled in my life, not even purchased a raffle or lottery ticket, and here I was gambling with my life.

Surprisingly, the procedure wasn’t as bad as I’d imagined. Having never experienced general anesthesia (a major fear of mine), I was prepared for a myriad of horrors, but the prep, procedure and recovery went smoothly. I’d helped my husband, Allen, through two such procedures in years past, and everything went well for him, too. Why had I waited?

The ten days it took to hear back about tests were interminable. The doctor had told Allen, as I regained consciousness that day, “She was lucky to have come in when she did”.

On Tuesday evening October 13, I got the call. I was clearing off my desk here at Asbury and preparing to head home. “Debbie, we have all your biopsy results back. Some of them are benign, and some are not.” All I remember of the call after that was confirming a Friday appointment and hanging up.

After staring at the wall over my desk for several minutes, I resolved not to tell my husband until after my appointment on Friday. Even after 34 years of marriage, he is crazy in love with me, and I didn’t want him to agonize one minute longer than was preventable. I drove home, put on my “unreadable” face and walked through the door.

Thinking I’d not heard from the doctor yet and knowing how hard the wait had been, Allen met me at the door with arms open wide and a tender smile on his face. I lost it; the “it” that holds everything together.

“I lost it; the “it” that holds everything together.”

I am not ashamed or embarrassed to tell you we cried together like only those who’ve received devastating news can understand. All our best laid plans came crashing down, and for the first time in our marriage, we started talking about “tomorrow” instead of “next year” or “when we retire”.

I’m usually an upbeat person, but all I was able to do the first hour or two was cry, and pray, and then cry again. Something else happened that night besides “the call”, however, that changed me forever.

Page 12

As the reality of colon cancer began to sink in, I opened my laptop and visited numerous sites and blogs, trying to get an idea of stages and life expectancy. The amount of information available was dizzying, and I finally logged off more despondent than when I started. My sweet husband hovered around me, not wanting to waste one minute by being apart, and we began to talk about the rest of our lives.

Allen and I have a list. We created it one summer weekend in Arkansas after our youngest daughter left for college. It’s our “Seven Year Plan”. There are seven columns, and each spells out a project or financial commitment that needs to be completed by the end of 2015. It lists what needs to be

“Well,” she said, “you will probably need to have a colonoscopy every three months, but the doctor will go over everything with you on Friday.” I basically pled with her, “Is that all you can tell me”?

When she asked what I meant, I took the plunge.

Someone had to say it, out loud.

“Iva, do I have cancer?”

“Oh my gosh … NO, Debbie!

You don’t have cancer!”

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.

He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.

Do you believe this?” John 11:25, 26 repaired, bought, sold, built or paid off. Isn’t that what we’re advised to do, have a “plan”? I’m here to tell you right now, those plans can change in a moment.

We began to talk about things on the list that we could “move up”, reschedule, or not do at all. How could I spend more time with my family, here and in Kentucky? What places had we wanted to see together, and what about that little log house we were going to build on a river? Most importantly, what was I doing now that I didn’t want to do anymore, and what was I not doing that I’d always wanted to do? It was a defining evening for us both.

After a fitful night of sleep, we both headed off to our jobs. I’d only told one friend on staff at Asbury what was going on with me, and as I relayed the latest news, she cried with me.

I closed my office door and cancelled my morning appointments. At around 9 a.m., my cell phone rang and I recognized the number from the doctor’s office.

Not wanting to be overheard and not knowing what else to expect, I left my office and walked to a quiet side of the building, stepping into a secluded stairwell.

The technician on the line confirmed that I was doing what they’d asked me to do before Friday’s appointment, and that she would see me then. I told her I’d not had any experience with anything like this and wondered if she could tell me what to expect.

Page 13

Have you ever seen a middle-aged woman laugh, and cry, and dance in the stairwell of a church? I was quite a sight, I’m sure. I called my husband who cried so hard and praised God so loud that he had to close the door of his office so as not to disturb others. You can only imagine the conversation that followed. And I literally skipped back to my office like a little girl on Christmas Day! The restaurant was about to close, and the kind server wondered at our serious conversation and uneaten food, but she let us be. Angi and I were unaware of anything but the grace of God and the circumstances He used to remind us what’s of greatest value in this life. I learned from my doctor the day after our dinner that the situation was indeed serious, and I would need close monitoring for the rest of my life, but for today, I do not have cancer.

What a gift … “today”. Today, I will strive to live as if I am the only Christ those around me will see.

Today, I will try to be a vessel of grace and humbly ask God to show me where I fail. Today, I will embrace my husband and daughters, rejoicing at God’s perfect work in their lives and trusting Him with their futures. Today, I will not forget the lessons from that long, dark night, and I will continue my journey in faith as a rescued daughter of the Most High God. All we really have is today, but that is enough if we give it to God.

The Way to Life From a Hindu to a Christian

by Jessica Dyer

B

orn as a first generation East Indian to wonderful parents is just one of the unique blessings in my life. My childhood was one of plenty in provision, as well as love and laughter.

The invitation came on July 10, 1990, in which I humbly accepted Jesus Christ as the Leader of my life and the Forgiver of my sins.

I struggled to understand the right way to live through the stories of multiple gods and goddesses representing different characteristics of one god. The concept of action, reaction, birth, death and rebirth in itself was a very intriguing concept.

A way, a truth, and a life I had always known became The way, The truth, and The life that I would know for eternity.

The steps I began to take moved from a shaky ground I was raised on the principles of Hinduism, teaching a to a solid foundation in Christ. The right choices I life of discipline in wisdom, love, devotion, right action made escalated to making righteous decisions strivand meditation. Though the ing to morally align mylanguage barrier limited the “A way, a truth, and a life I had self with God’s will for depth of my understanding my life. Though I would of these practices, I learned always known became The way, stumble, I was convicted to lean on these concepts as The truth, and The life that I to get up again and press though one who infers truth on with the Holy Spirit to would know for eternity.” from Greek mythology. provide me the guidance.

I was a good kid. I was taught the difference between right and wrong and understood that there were consequences for my actions.

I put my trust in the world and what it had to offer.

I also felt like the choices I made and the steps I took were solid; however, I didn’t realize the foundation in which I placed my feet was crumbling.

Through the living examples of Christ followers I observed and encountered throughout my life, I began to learn there was a new truth from what I had always known. I craved to learn about this man called Jesus.What about Him caused others to bear fruit that would last? What about this man caused people to live a life of freedom? How could I know Him? Could I be included or was I even worthy to be a part of something so amazing? Would someone invite me to know Him?

After accepting Jesus for myself, I learned not to put my trust in the world, as it was guaranteed to disappoint. I put my trust in His Word, as it was guaranteed to bring life.

Throughout this journey, I have encountered the familiar face of Christ in so many fellow believers. The light they shine for Christ cannot be stamped out. The grace of our loving Father does not run out. His love and mercy have no end.

I have had the honor and privilege to share the little truth I know of Christ with others and am always looking for the next opportunity. If it is you, may you know the truth of Jesus Christ as your redeemer having died on the cross for your sins to give you a new life. The promises of His word are written for you and I. Though there are days the journey seems long, I know that my God is the Alpha and Omega. He will see me through until I fall at His feet and see Him face to face.

Page 14

“It is not about who I am, but who He is.

Without Christ, I am nothing.”

William D.Watley, Senior Pastor at the St. James African Methodist Church, provides encouragement in the realization and truth of Jesus as the ultimate connection: “You are connected to somebody who is not only the Alpha and Omega, but the Nu as well. Alpha and Omega are the first and the last letters of the Greek alphabet; nu is the middle letter. Thus, Jesus is not only the somebody who will be with us in the beginning, when we’re born and at the end when death comes.

He abides with us in all that is in between…in the middle. In the middle, when temptation comes to turn us around. In the middle, when Satan attacks to dismantle and destroy. In the middle, when friends become few.

In the middle, when resources run short. In the middle, when the unexpected shakes the foundations of our lives. In the middle, when relationships are severed.Yes, in the middle. Therefore, we can continue to abide in Jesus. He is sufficient for whatever comes between our beginning and our ending.”

There will be many things that will come to sway us, shake us and break us, but we have the protection of our God who is the Rock, the One Who Sees, the Everlasting, the Eternal, the Provider, the One Who Heals and the God of peace. He is the King, our Dwelling Place, our Refuge, our Shield, our Fortress, our Strong Tower. Jesus is the Light of the World, the Bread of Life, the Great Physician, the Lamb of God, the King of Kings, the Prince of Peace, the Cornerstone, our Friend, our Savior, the Good Shepherd, our Redeemer, the Son of God and the Son of Man. It is not about who I am, but who He is. Without Christ, I am nothing.

May you find the freedom Christ has given me through His death on the cross. May you have hope in His resurrection and His promise that He will come again.

Prepare to be blessed as you bless others in the name of Jesus.

Page 15

RESOLVED THE “I AM” PLAN FOR POSITIVE CHANGE

by Kim Beair, MS, LPC,NCC

It’s time

for those New Year’s Resolutions; do you dread them or look forward to them? The answer you give is likely tied to how successful or unsuccessful you have been at setting (and keeping) them in the past. You could be like many who don’t even try to make them because of past failures in this same endeavor year after year.

The resolution process generally begins by reevaluating aspects of life, then analyzing the costs and benefits of positive change. Analyzing life issues is always a positive, and most feel the costs are worth it if they achieve their desired results. Many make a strong commitment based on perceived costs, only to find them more intrusive than they imagined.

“God is the Great ‘I Am.’ He sets a wonderful example of how to accomplish positive change in our lives...”

Usually a failure

in keeping resolutions has less to do with the commitment or “will” to achieve a goal, and more to do with a lack of planning and organization around it. Anticipate resistance and don’t fail to see the obstacles that could get in the way. Poor planning results in chaos and will often cause us to go back to our old ways when we could have done a better job anticipating obstacles.

God is the Great “I Am.” He sets a wonderful example of how to accomplish positive change in our lives through the way He handles his job as God. Yes, being God is a job, and we can look to His confident and resolute example when attempting positive changes. Magazines and websites are full of ideas for making a resolution and sticking to it. Interestingly, there is nothing God hasn’t already either told us or showed us by His example. Let’s examine these tips in terms of God’s blueprint for our success.

Written Plan – Experts will tell you that refining and then writing down a plan solidifies commitment and alleviates becoming sidetracked when pursuing goals. God made a written plan for our earthly and eternal success.The consequences and rewards are displayed for all to see and have been since the beginning of our written Word. If you have never done this, write your plan down, just as God did, including contingency plans for failure and rewards for success.

Page 16

One at a Time Goals – God made the heavens and the earth and did so in a well-ordered plan. He could have done it with one sweep of His hand, but he chose a way that we could emulate in our own steps to accomplish our goals. Consider working your plan for six days and resting on the seventh.

Understand Slip-ups are Part of the Growth Process – Moses, David, Paul and other Biblical heroes made mistakes. Do not live in condemnation, but learn from your mistakes as part of the growth process.

“Understand Slip-ups are Part of the Growth Process...”

Though we would like to have miracle healings and cures for all our hurts and habits, the human brain reacts better to processes involving constant analysis, which generally involves some bumps in the road on our journeys to success.

Support Network – God teaches us to be in community for a reason. It helps us to support each other and to gain other insights that we might be lacking. Even God has a built in support network within the concept of the Trinity. One warning, however: Guard your heart, because it is the wellspring of life. Do not enlist anyone to be in your support network who will badger you and make your life miserable. By this point in your life you should know who those people are, so steer clear of them on your personal journey of change.

Avoid Triggers – Do we really have to even mention this? Yes, because there are people who think that they can recover from alcoholism and still be a “social drinker,” and the like. The Bible is full of warnings about avoiding temptation; do not be mislead into thinking this is just about sin and getting into heaven. God knows how he designed our brain.They weren’t set up to develop bad habits, then get out of them while still holding onto pieces of destructive behaviors.

Start Healthy Habits When Removing Negative Ones – Removing anything from our lives is painful, even if it is a nasty habit. The process leaves a hole, which must be filled by something. Have you noticed that all the successful Biblical characters were busy people? Idle time creates temptation, so if you stop going to the smoke hole, replace that activity with a five-minute walk, a healthy snack, or donating five minutes of help to a coworker.

Page 17

Be Ever Watchful – Just when you think you have your success in the bag, review what Matthew 12:43-46 says about “relapse.” Being wise in this area will ensure success for life!

Coming

Out

of the darkness by Üllas Tankler

A Soviet Union survivor remembers the suppression of truth and freedom

I grew up in Estonia

when it was occupied by the Soviet Russia. At that time, Estonia wasn’t even a separate country, it was more like a state in a big country called Soviet Union.

It is hard to describe what “darkness” meant for me at that time. Perhaps it was like living in a cave without ever having seen real light.

Today, from "This was a the perspective of freedom, sense of coming I understand much better out of darkness the relation between light into the light." and darkness. It is easier to theologize and philosophize around these themes. But when I was young, I just lived my life with my family and friends. I had my joys of many relationships. It wasn’t like feeling the darkness around myself all the time.

How sweet the freedom can be, this is something I realized only when I had my first tiny bits of experience of it. When I came to taste it.

Freedom came to Estonia gradually. It did not happen like the Berlin Wall coming down in one night (of course, dismantling the physical wall also took much longer time). During the power of Gorbatschow, we began to have more openness in the society (end of 1980s) step by step. We could talk honestly about how we felt and how things were in the society. Suddenly it made some sense to read the newspaper, as it published real opinions and truthful reports, rather than red propaganda about how great things are in the Soviet Union!

This honesty and openness led to the new developments, which allowed churches to speak in public. As the Christian Church had kept its integrity during the Communist power (virtually the only institution during the Soviet regime who did so), people felt trust toward the Church. Christians had a lot of credibility.

This was a sense of coming out of darkness into the light. I remember what I felt when eventually I, as a Christian pastor, could speak in public, meet with leaders of other movements, and I was listened to. I was not put down because I was a Christian.

Throughout the "The authorities years before that renewal never allowed me time in the to travel out of society, the Communist the Soviet Union" authorities suppressed me in various ways. For instance I was a fourth year university student when I accepted the call to become United Methodist pastor. As soon as the university leaders learned about my new job, they used certain formalities to get me out. As a Christian minister, I was not reliable to get the higher education in a Soviet school.

Another example is the absolute denial of foreign visas. As a youth leader in the Methodist Church (unofficially, of course), I received invitations to various youth conferences and meetings abroad (Finland, Spain, England, etc). The authorities never allowed me to travel out of the Soviet Union.

Why? Because they did not trust me coming back.

Page 18

in a society

apart Page 19

is the lack of information

of

d a r k n e s s

I had no intentions

of staying abroad. After all, I was already married and had children – it never occurred to me to leave my home and family. But, they did not believe me. This sense of not being trusted was one of the darkest.

Let me mention one other thing. Obviously, a part of “darkness� in a society is the lack of information. I wonder how the Soviets would have restricted the information flow in the internet era, but in these times they were really efficient blocking anything that might have come from the free press.

While even in the East Germany, people could watch West German television (and some people in Northern Estonia could receive some Finnish television), most people had no access to

"None of us should say that we have reached a full and complete state of light. We are still on the way." free media. No television programs except what the Communists approved, no free radio news, no newspapers beyond Communist ideology.

I remember how as a young adult I yearned for real news from the world. Once a church visitor from the United States managed to get a copy of Newsweek magazine through the borders. I swallowed every word in it! This really did seem like a sunbeam in a dark cave. (I am not writing this to promote one particular magazine, of course).

But the darkness of ignorance was so deep, that I recall speaking with another American Christian who told me about churches helping the poor, to which I responded with a sincere question: Are there poor in America?

Because of this ideological background in my first half of life, I am especially allergic to any kind of manipulation. None of us should say that we have reached a full and complete state of light. We are still on the way.

However, it is essential to always be on guard and stand strongly for the light, because darkness is lurking around us in many ways. Whatever the political contexts in which we are operating today, Jesus Christ is the only one who can reveal the light of the truth in its fullness.

God

What is

M

Like?

y quest for an understanding of what God is like began as a boy and has continued for a lifetime. I listened to Old Testament stories of prophets who heard from God. In the New Testament, Jesus said that God is my Father and that God is Spirit. I read David’s 23rd Psalm as a boy. Reading this Psalm year after year has made it a memory verse.

David was God’s man. He was God’s leader of Israel. While in this favored position, David committed the sins of adultery and murder. I might have given up on David, but God did not. After David repented for his sins, God forgave him. More than any other writer, David shares with me what God is like. David used Old Testament imagery that people of his day would understand. Those same words are meaningful to me today. Read the 23 Psalm to better understand what God is like.

by John C. Westervelt

My heart is filled with peace, knowing I shall not want. As a widower, I once walked through the valley of the shadow of death, and I was comforted. Now in my senior years, I seek daily the comfort of God’s rod and staff. I thank David for putting concrete substance in his description of how God touches me in my time of need.

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures,

I encourage you to ask God to touch you with His rod and His staff as you deal with the cares of your day.

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

More stories at www.jwestervelt.com

Page 20

asbury

opportunities

Engaged Couples If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time for Couple-to-Couple (required premarital sessions). Six months to one year lead time suggested.

The Gazebo is Open CDs of Tom’s message of the day are available immediately following the worship service - $3. Prayer Journals GENERAL INFORMATION are also available for $5 each.

Breakfast

Served from 7:15-9:00 am. in the CLC. Come enjoy Recycling fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and ce- Recycle unwanted paper products. Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots. real. $3 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under.

Sunday Morning Worship 8:00 am Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) 9:15 am Sanctuary (Contemporary) 9:15 am CLC Open House Worship (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) 11:00 am Sanctuary (Traditional) 11:00 am Venue 68 (Modern with sign interpreter) Sunday Evening Worship 6:30 pm Venue 68 (Modern) Sundays for Children and Students 6 Wks - 4 Years 8:00, 9:15, & 11:00 am K-6th Grades 9:15 or 11:00 am 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 9:15 & 11:00 am 10th, 11th & 12th Grades 9:15 am only Adult Discipleship Communities Sunday at 8:00, 9:15, & 11:00 am, Carpenter’s Workshop on Wednesdays at 6:00 pm and Shepherd’s Flock on Tuesdays at 6:00pm. NEW, Salt & Light at 11:00 Sunday mornings in room 2820 for singles ages 30s-40s, and A Gathering for couples in their 20s on Sunday evenings at 5 pm in room 2821.

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, try our new Circuit Riders, who meet in front of the statue on the west parking lot each Sunday at 2 p.m. for a ride before fellowship time.

Asbury Family News is available at the Welcome Centers. It includes births, deaths, marriages, baptisms and military listings.

Doors of Asbury posters are at the Welcome Centers...FREE! Suitable for framing.

New Additions to the Library The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.

Mark Bennett’s new CD Mark’s new CD, “Healing Songs (for Elliot)” is available Sunday mornings in the gazebo and around town at Tulsa-area Kaffe Bona locations. All proceeds benefit The Little Light House school.

access

Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm. 2821 Friends in Christ Community Sundays, 11:00 am, Rm. 1507

bible study

RoadMap Check out the Winter 2010 RoadMap courses in the new brochure and on the Asbury website at www.asburytulsa.org. Accept Pastor Tom’s challenge to get actively involved in digging deeper into God’s Word ~ there is something for everyone!

Roadmap Sign UP and Book Distribution There will be sign-up sheets at the tables in the North Lobby of Venue 68 on Sunday, January 3 and in the Main Surgery or Hospitalization Scheduled?

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling Building West Foyer on Sunday, January 10 for each of Pam at 392-1199, x253 so your pastors can be in the classes offered. Books needed for the courses will prayer for you. When you enter the hospital, please also be available for purchase at the sign-up tables, so designate Asbury as your church. The after-hours bring your check book! Volunteers will be at the tables pastoral emergency line can be reached by calling before, between, and after worship services to assist 492-1771, selecting option 6, and leaving a message with sign-up and book purchases. Brochures with complete course descriptions are at both Welcome desks for the pastor on call. and in community classrooms. The Winter 2010 session begins the week of January 11.

Page 21

care and support

Making Peace With Your Past Thursdays, January 14-April 15, 6:30-8:00 pm in Room 2314. Cost is $15. Learn how to understand feelings from your childhood and experience the healing God can provide.

This is a study of the dynamics of growing up in a family where not all of your emotional needs were met. It provides biblical and practical help for overcoming emotional and spiritual barriers to fellowship with God leading you to experience forgiveness, healing and hope. It will help you: • Identify ways your past affects you today • Understand that other adults have had similar problems and feelings • Overcome spiritual and emotional barriers to making peace with yourself and your past • Experience an atmosphere of trust, honesty, and unconditional love in a small group • Develop a sense of hope and healing Call Diane Taylor at 254-6131 or dinyt@cox.net. Payment required before class begins. Class size limited to 12 people.

GriefShare Thursdays, January 7–April 1, 1:00-2:30 pm, Room 2314. GriefShare is a special weekly video series and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. It’s a safe place to be around people who understand what you are feeling.

At GriefShare, you’ll learn valuable information about recovering from your grief and renewing your hope for the future. Group sessions are offered three times per year. You may begin attending this group at any time...each video session is “self-contained.” Cost: $13 for workbook. Call 392-1191 to register.

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 Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at 392-4583 or asluice@ asburytulsa.org.

Résumé Assistance and Review Do you have an effective résumé? An extra set of eyes can make a difference. E-mail your résumé to employ. transitions@yahoo.com.

Overcoming Job Transitions (OJT) Large group time followed by special interest breakout sessions about networking, resumes, interviewing, using the internet for job hunting and more. Reach out and bring a neighbor! Meets the third Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm, Family Room. Questions? Contact Russ Knight at ddknight1@cox.net or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Wonder what Stephen Ministry is all about?

You’re invited to an Information Meeting: Monday, November 30, 9:30-10:30 am OR Thursday, December 3, 6:30-7:30 pm. Training begins early January, either Monday mornings or Thursday evenings. Stephen Ministry is God’s love in action. Questions? Call Charlene, 392-1145, cgiles@asburytulsa.org.

Prayer Card Sending Team Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10:00 am in Room 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 information, or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Asperger Support Group First Thursday from 7:00-9:00 pm in Rm 1506. For mothers of children with Asperger Syndrome. Childcare available.

You’re invited to an Information Meeting: Monday, November 30, 9:30-10:30 am OR Thursday, December 3, 6:30-7:30 pm. Training begins early January, either Monday mornings or Thursday evenings.

Stephen Ministry is God’s love in action. Questions?

Call Charlene, 392-1145, cgiles@asburytulsa.org.

Prayer Card Sending Team Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10:00 am in Room 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 information, or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Asperger Support Group First Thursday from 7:00-9:00 pm in Rm 1506. For mothers of children with Asperger Syndrome. Childcare available.

Alzheimer’s Support Group Third Thursday, from 1:30-3:00 pm in Rm 1621. Christian hope, support and education for friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s or other dementia.

Cancer Support Group Second Sunday of each month, 4:00-6:00 pm, Parlor - Reflections on the 23rd Psalm & sharing for people with cancer and their families.

Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma. Childcare available.

Page 22

Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce.

Childcare available.

Eating Disorder Recovery First and third Wednesdays, 12:00-1:30 pm, Room 1621 - For individuals seeking support in the recovery process. Bring sack lunch.

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 from 1:30 - 3:00 pm in the Parlor. No meetings in November and December.

Military Connection Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-related military personnel.The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer. Please send contact information (complete name and address) to Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Asbury Bear Bags Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young 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 more information, contact Beth at 392-1116.

children

Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies.

Core Childcare Hours Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes during these core hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks to 12 years of age with no reservations needed: Sun 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Mon & Tue 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Tue, Wed, & Thur 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Wednesday Night Live - Kindergarten – 4thGrade Wednesdays, January 13th – April 28th- 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. 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 were registered for the fall Page 23

semester, you will not need to complete a new form.

Otherwise, you may pick up a registration form in the Children’s Ministry area. For more information contact the age appropriate staff member: Kindergarten-Cathy at 392-1170, 1st & 2nd grade-Amber at 392-1171, or 3rd – 4th grade-Jennifer at 392-4582.

Children’s Choirs Christmas Pagent Our Second Sunday of Advent will spotlight the Asbury’s Children’s choirs as they present, Home for Christmas, Sunday, December 6 at 6 PM in the sanctuary.

The drama taken right out of our current events will feature the Young Musicians choir as actors telling the story. Joyful Sound, Joyful Noise and the Music Makers dressed in tinsel halos and matching Christmas shirts will tell the age old Christmas story through songs.

You will not want to miss this heartwarming evening.

Christmas Eve Family Service Thursday, December 24 at 5:00 pm - For 5th and 6th graders. Rehearsals are December 9th & 16th & 23rd, 4:00 p.m.- 5:30 p.m.

The 5th and 6th graders have the privilege of presenting the Christmas Story to the congregation at the 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Family Service. We would love instrumentalists, scripture readers and actors and actresses to make this a memorable evening for all involved. Call Jennifer Barnes 392-4582 or jbarnes@asburytulsa.org

by December 7th if your child is interested. Adult help with rehearsals and the program is critical to help get the message delivered on this special night.

discipleship

Discipleship Communities If you have not yet found an Adult Discipleship Community check out “Get Involved” on our website, www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a brochure at one of our Welcome Centers.

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 392-1113 or dyoder@asburytulsa.org.

marriage & family

Dynamic Marriage Give us 9 weeks…we’ll give you a dynamic marriage!

This is an 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. Cost: $130/couple (many materials included, scholarships available) $50 holds your spot. To register, contact Jackie or Ron at 251-6665 or asburydynamicmarriage@windstream.net. Limited to first 12 paid couples in each class. Classes start on Tuesday, February 16, 6:30-9:00 pm OR Wednesday, February 17, 6:00-8:30 pm, Rm 2201. Childcare available.

Men’s Open Basketball Fridays, 11:30 am – 1:15 pm, Gym. Men! Make plans to join other Asbury guys and their friends each week as we get together for a little “round ball” and lots of fun! Come show us what you’ve got, and we’ll have a great time of exercise and fellowship. Invite your friends, and we’ll see you on the court!

Mature Men’s Ministry R.O.M.E.O. Luncheon Are you a “Retired Old Man” who wants to “Eat Out?” If so, then these luncheons are for you! Two groups of men are meeting every Thursday or every 2nd & 4th Friday at 11:15 a.m., for good food and great fellowship. Both groups meet at Luby’s Cafeteria (71st 8 Dates with Your Mate 2nd Tuesday of each month, February 9 – September and Riverside), and are open to anyone 60 years and 14, 6:15 – 7:00 pm, Room 1502. No cost. Gather to up. Choose a day and join us this week! For more inhear a variety of topics led by various speakers (30 formation, contact Bud at bdmathes@cox.net (Thursminutes), then have dinner out. Childcare available. days), or Jim at rober@cox.net (Fridays.)

NEW TOPICS/SPEAKERS! Men’s Fraternity: Winning at Work and Home Tuesdays, 6:15 – 7:30 a.m. or Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:45 Attention Engaged Couples If you are planning to use anAsbury pastor to officiate and/ p.m., beginning January 12 & 13 in Room 2821. Join or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow facilitators Brent Colgan & Greg Ruley for the remainample time for Couple-to-Couple (required premarital ing 6 weeks of this 16-session study, focusing on the sessions). Six months to one year lead time is suggested. two areas that are central to a man’s life: career and family. Learn to build the walls of manhood through study dealing with your chief responsibilities, and exMilestone Wedding Anniversaries Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary plore how you engage in work, and relate to a woman (5,10,15,20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucars@cox. in new ways. Each session is an independent study, so it’s never too late to join in! Register by calling net or call Ruth at 392-1146. the Asbury Registration Hotline at 392-1191. All men ages 18 and up are encouraged to attend. Cost is $10. membership Asbury Exploration Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a Boy Scout Spaghetti Luncheon member of Asbury. Sunday, January 3, from 12:15-2:00 Sunday, February 21, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Enjoy a pm in Community Life Center. Lunch provided and generous serving of spaghetti, bread, salad, and dessert childcare is available for children six weeks through with your family and friends! The Asbury Boy Scouts, sponsored by the UMM Ministry, invite you to their 5th 6th grade. Call 392-1191 to register.

Annual “Spaghetti Luncheon Social”! The cost is just $5 per person, or $20 maximum per family. You may pre-purchase tickets on Sunday, January 31 or Sunday, February 7, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the south entrance, or the day of the event at the door. However, Men’s Prayer Breakfast – pre-purchasing is appreciated to help with planning! All Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 am in the CLC. proceeds benefit the Boy Scouting Mission at Asbury.

Attention men of Asbury. Make plans Annual Men’s Retreat to join us for a great time of meaningful worship, lifechanging prayer and an awesome big breakfast, all for Men! Mark your calendars for Friday & Saturday, March 5 & 6, 2010 for another awesome retreat at Sky Ranch just $3 per person. First-time guests are free. in Quapaw, OK. Watch church publications for details!

men

Schedule: January 6 January 13 January 20 January 27

Bill Johnson Mark Springer Dub Ambrose Pec Clark

Page 24

missions

Discover a new perspective…Perspectives on the World Christian Movement Biblical Foundation: Discover God’s unchanging purpose as it unfolds from Genesis to Revelation. You may never read your Bible the same way again!

Historical Progress: We must look back to plan ahead. See how God has used key events and people throughout history to extend His kingdom.

Cultural Distinctives: What should the church look like in other cultures?

See how the Gospel is understood, received, and lived out by people with different worldviews.

Strategic Involvement: Discover the vital roles you can play in God’s global purpose. Learn how to use your gifts, skills, and passions for God’s glory.

In 15 lessons, you will be exposed to some of the most powerful insights and principles from key leaders around the world. These weekly articles and assignments will help you dive deeply into the unfolding story of God’s purpose for His people.

Class session runs January 11-May 4, 2010, from 6:309:30 pm. There will be two class options to choose from: Mondays will be at Bethel Baptist Church, 10705 E. 86th St., N., Owasso and Tuesdays at Arrow Heights Baptist Church, 3201 S. Elm Place, Broken Arrow. For more information contact Mary Ann Smith, 392-1117, Dan Sterling, 451-1460, or visit www.perspectives.org.

Mission Matters A monthly newsletter is available with recent news of mission happenings. If you would like to receive the newsletter, please contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163 or msistrunk@asburytulsa.org.

Global Outreach Dinner The next Global Outreach Dinner is Tuesday, December 8 at 6 pm in the CLC. Come enjoy a wonderful meal while hearing about the latest Global Outreach news. Anyone is welcome to attend. Contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163 or msistrunk@asburytulsa.org for reservations by Wednesday, December 2.

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 become a prayer intercessor for those serving around the world, contact Missy Sistrunk at 392-1163.

Page 25

Recycling Efforts • Campbell’s soup labels & Box Tops-benefit Red Bird Mission in Kentucky.

• Campbell’s soup labels & Swanson labels-benefit Cookson Hills in Oklahoma • Small soaps and shampoo-benefit medical missions and Circle of Care • Old eyeglasses-for adults or children-benefit medical missions • Old cell phones-benefit Little Light House • Old home printer cartridges-benefit Walt Whitman Elementary School • Hearing Aids-collected by Deaf Perceptions Community • Operation Hope collects the following receipts: Drysdales, McDonald’s, QuikTrip, Wal-Mart, Sanders Nursery and Yale Cleaners just to name a few. For a more detailed list there is Community Club Awards booklet in each Community room. Receipts can be dropped off in the Mission Office.

• Newspapers, copy paper, catalogues, etc.-collected in the recycle bins in theAsbury parking lot-benefitAsbury.

All donations can be dropped off in the Mission Office, unless otherwise noted.

missions/vim

Hurricane Ike Recovery Team The next Hurricane Ike Recovery Team is scheduled from Sunday, February 21- Saturday, February 27, 2010. The team leaders will be Steve Zenthoefer and Mike Mastraccio. This team is open to men & women!

Contact Marilene Long at 392-1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org if you are interested in serving.

Volunteers In Mission 2010 Opportunities February 21-27 Galveston, Texas, Hurricane Ike Recovery March 13-20 Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction w/Faith UMC March or April Monterrey, Mexico, Business Mission Spring Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction April 22-May 1 Central Asia, Construction & Teaching May 20-31 Central Asia, College Students May 29-June 5 Ecuador, MBS & Construction June 3-14 Estonia, Lighthouse June 17-28 Tanzania, East Africa, Medical June 24-July 5 Estonia, Camp Gideon,Youth Camp & Construction July 22-August 1 Estonia, Parnu, MBS & Light Construction

September Tanzania, East Africa, Construction September or October Central Asia, Construction & Teaching Fall Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction October 9-16 Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction November 3-7 Monterrey, Mexico, Medical

Just give Debbie in the Adult Ministries office a call at 392-1177 to reserve the Prayer Room for your group on a weekly or monthly basis.

Prayer Room Days & Times Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times:

Mason Chapel & Venue 68 Sundays from 7:00 am - 12:30 pm through the interior doors.

Main Facility, Mason Chapel, & Venue 68 VIM Leader Training: February 27 - Oklahoma City, Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm September 18 - Oklahoma City, October 23 – Saturday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Oklahoma City.

Sunday 12:30 pm - 9:00 pm Contact Marilene Long at 392-1164 or mlong@as- To obtain pass codes, call Debbie in the Adult Minisburytulsa.org if you are interested in serving on any of tries office at 392-1177. these teams or being part of the VIM Leader Training.

Prayer Service for Those In Need of Salvation Wednesday, February 24, 6 – 6:30 pm, Mason Chapel. music Are there people in your life who need the salvation Chancel Choir of Jesus? Then make it a point to attend this service, Wednesdays, 7:00 pm, Choir Room focusing our prayers for those without Christ in their New Covenant Orchestra lives.

Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30 pm, Rm 1510 Children’s Choirs “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Wednesdays, 6:00-6:50 pm, various rooms begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him Asbury Power & Light should not perish,but have everlasting life.”John 3:16 Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm 1510 Celebration Ringers recovery Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm 2506 Celebrate Recovery Youth Orchestra Come join this supportive group of people Wednesdays, 5:30pm, Rm 1506 each Monday night at 6:00 pm.

Asbury Ringers Wednesdays, 6:00-6:50 pm, Rm 2506 Dinner at 6:00 pm; Perpetual Light Worship from 7:00-8:00 pm; Thursdays, 10:30 to Noon, Rm 2506 Small Groups from 8:00-9:00 pm; Saints of Swing Dixieland Band Dessert from 9:00-9:30 pm.

Thursdays, 7-9 pm, Rm 1510 Asbury Singing Ambassadors Hiding any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God never inTuesdays, 1:30 – 3:00, Choir room tended for you to live in bondage.

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 that the main facility Prayer Room is open not only to individuals desiring to pray in a quiet, meditative atmosphere, but also to prayer groups within communities and ministries.

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 Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at ozyanks2000@yahoo.com Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00-9:30 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.

Page 26

Senior Walk in the Gym with Him Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:00 am in the gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for power walking, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship.

Come give it a try.

Senior Game Time Every third Thursday – 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Attention Asbury Senior Adults! How would you like to get together on a regular basis with a wonderful bunch of folks and play a few rounds of cards, dominoes, or whatever board or card game you chose?

You KNOW you’d love it! If you’re a senior adult age 55 and up, come check it out in Room 2820. Bring a friend and stay for as long as you like! This fun group will meet every third Thursday, so mark your calendars!

Senior Adult Meal & Movie Attention all senior adults of Asbury! If you’re 55 years of age or over, our monthly meal and movie day event may be just the “ticket” for you! We get together at a different Tulsa restaurant each month, and then head off to see a “first run” movie. The dates and times vary according to the movie selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few days ahead of time so they can make plans accordingly. For more information or to sign up for the call list, contact: Sally Wood, sally-wood@sbcglobal.net.

January Tweenagers Program & Lunch Everyone aged 55 and up is welcome to join us for our monthly Tweenagers meeting & luncheon, taking place on Thursday, January 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the CLC. Our program will be presented by Phyllis Sheffield, a member of the 2009 Asbury Medical Team to Tanzania. You don’t want to miss this program, and don’t forget to invite your friends!

Call the main office at 492-1771 to make your reservations BY NOON, Monday, January 25. If, during that week, you find you need to cancel, please also let us know as we need to give an accurate count to the cooks. Should you choose, you may make a donation for the meal when you check in that morning. Come join us for fun and fellowship!

singles

Divorce Recovery Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma.

Childcare available.

Divorce Rebuilding Thursdays, 7:00-8:30 pm, Rm 1335 - For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce.

Childcare available.

Page 27

Singles Ministry Potluck Fellowship Sunday, January 31, 12:15-1:30 pm. 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!

students

Life Hurts God Heals & 789 Bible Study Life is crazy hard and everyone needs a safe place to get real and deal with it!That is exactly what Life Hurts God Heals is all about. Every Wednesday night 6-8:15pm in the Venue, 7th-12th grade, welcome anytime contact Marsha for details 392-1157. Or come learn about God in 789 Bible Study every Wednesday 6:30-8pm!

789 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 sometimes free candy and gift cards.

789 Small Groups Small Groups have begun! Being a part of a small group is awesome. It’s a great place to grow your relationship with Jesus, have fun hanging out with guys/girls your own age. A Small Group is made up of same gender and the same grade PLUS two incredible adults that want to hang out with you. 7th and 8th Grade Small Groups all meet in the Student Ministries Area this year. 9th Grade groups are meeting in homes. Yes you can be in a 7th grade small group and not be a part of Confirmation! If you haven’t signed up yet, you can do that on Sunday mornings or just come to the church on Sunday nights, 7th grade 4:30-6:00; 8th Grade 5:006:30; 9th grade times vary depending on the small group. For more information contact Mark or Marsha.

7th Grade Confirmation Parent Meeting If your 7th grader is going through the Confirmation program don’t miss this mandatory meeting, January 24, 4:30-6pm in the Venue!

789 Food Bank Outreach 789 grades will be reaching out to the community January 23 from 8:30-12pm by working at the local food bank! 8:30am-noon, signup on Sunday mornings or just show up ready to work!

789 Called to Ministry Class If you are a 7th, 8th, or 9th grader and you feel like you might be called to ministry, don’t miss this special 2 week series held during the 9:15am hour on January 31 and February 7 to explore deeper into that call!

You must register by January 24, so stop by student ministries and get registered today!

789 Small Group Leader Training information, contact Betty Seetin, and stop by some If you are a 789 Small Group Leader, don’t miss this Monday and check us out! mandatory training (lunch will be served) on January 31 after church until 2pm, meet in the Venue!

UMW December Luncheon & Program Attention ladies!

Houston and Red Bird Leaders Meeting Thursday, January 7, 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, CLC. AtIf you are a leader on the Houston or Red Bird Spring Break tention ladies! The program planned for January’s Mission trip don’t miss this mandatory meeting. Meet luncheon will be presented by Barbie Paige, Asbury’s in the Venue after church – 2pm, lunch will be served! volunteer coordinator for our “Partners in Education” school, Walt Whitman Elementary. A delicious ATTENTION: luncheon prepared by our church hostesses,Virginia & No 789 Small Groups Susan, will also be served for just $7 per person. No No 789 Small Groups January 3! reservations are necessary.

101112 Breakaway Every Wednesday night we come together for a time of connection and worship. Our desire is to explore who God really is and how our lives matter to Him. We get started around 6:30 pm and wrap up around 8:30ish. Plan on hanging out afterwards for pizza.

101112 grade Small Groups Get Connected – Are you looking for a way to get more connected? Are you looking for a place to grow in your walk with Jesus? Then being a part of a small group is where you need to be. If you are already in a small group, don’t forget to re-sign up for your group.

Our small groups meet every Sunday night, times vary.

Some of the groups meet in homes and others meet at the church.

Our scripture emphasis for this month comes from Matthew 19:14: “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’”

An Evening for Women with Pastor Darlene Friday, January 22, 2010, 6:30-8:30 pm, Sanctuary. Asbury Women! Save the date for our Fifth Annual “Evening for Women with Pastor Darlene Johnson”, taking place on Friday, January 22, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

This always proves to be a night of encouragement, guidance and rejuvenation. Also, we have some special plans for this year that you won’t want to miss! It’s a great opportunity to reach out and invite all the women in your life, too. Watch your mail and Asbury publications for more detailed information, coming soon!

Call Todd @ 392-1154 or Amy @ 392-1156 to get Common Grounds: A Gathering of Women more info. Small groups will not meet on January 3, First Thursday of the month, February thru NovemFebruary 21, March 7, 14, 21, or April 4 ber 2010, Family Room & Café, 6:30 p.m. Women of all ages are invited to join us for this once-a-month Spring Break Missions Payment gathering, where you will receive encouragement, Due January 24th: Mexico $200, Guatemala $300, hope and friendship, as well as opportunities to grow Houston $100 and Red Bird $125 spiritually. Our first get-together will take place on Thursday, February 4, where we will begin the eve7th-12th Grade Metro Worship @ Venue 68 ning with coffee or tea, and dessert. Childcare for Come join youth from all over the city in a night to children six weeks through sixth grade will be projust worship Jesus. We meet the first Wednesday night vided, by e-mailing Cathy at cambrose@hotmail. of every month from 7 – 8:30ish. com., no later than Sunday, January 31. Watch Asbury publications for more details, or call Cathy Ambrose for more information. We hope to see you and your friends at our first gathering of “Common Grounds”!

women of asbury

worship Women of the Word Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 am in Rm 2319, Rev. 8:00 am Communion Service Mason Chapel.Traditional service with music led by Hart Darlene Johnson, teacher.

Morris.Communion is served and Dr.Harrison preaches.

Crafty Ladies Fellowship Mondays, 9:30 am - 2:00 pm, Rm 2820. Ladies, if you 9:15 am Contemporary enjoy doing crafts and fellowshipping at the same time, Praise & Worship this activity is for you! We gather on Monday morn- Sanctuary. Contemporary music led by Mark Bennett ings to work on our own individual arts and crafts, and team, time of prayer and the message will all carry a stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch, and continue on prevailing theme for the morning.Dr.Harrison preaches. through until 2:00 p.m. We have a wonderful time together, and would love to have you join us! For more Page 28

9:15 am Open House Worship Community Life Center. A relaxed atmosphere with Kathleen Price died November 11, 2009. engaging worship led by Dub Ambrose and team. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasion- Louise Dickson died November 11, 2009. al live sermon from another pastor.

Arthur Whitt, father of Brian (Brenda) Whitt, died November 14, 2009.

11:00 am Traditional Service Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles Mary Lou Hartung, wife of Jack, died November 16, 2009. offer a variety of styles of music led by Hart Morris. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches.

Stephen Rizzotti, husband of Susan, died November 16, 2009.

11:00 am Modern Service Venue 68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led

by Chris Cleveland and team. Sign interpreters for the Robert Treadwell died November 18, 2009 deaf are offered.Dr.Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast.

6:30 pm Modern Service Venue 68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the Ben Kilgore and team.Rev.Spencer Smith preaches.

asbury births & deaths births:

Reese Catherine Goldsmith, daughter of Scott & Lisa Goldsmith, was born November 11, 2009.

Hannah Grace smith, daughter of Spencer & Abby Smith, was born November 18, 2009.

Falon Roe, daughter of Sie and Ryan Roe, was born November 12, 2009.

Justin Matthew Holman, son of Matt & Laura Holman, was born November 24, 2009.

deaths:

A.J. Cobble, husband of Corrine, died October 19, 2009.

David Lasiter, husband of Melinda, died October 21, 2009.

Theola Johnson, sister of Marjorie Johnson, died October 31, 2009.

Brady Cypert, husband of Linda, died November 8, 2009.

Charles Parker Sr. died November 8, 2009.

Page 29

marriages Congratulations!

Todd Qualls and Kimberly Butts were married November 7, 2009.

Keith Reimer and Alissa Dudley were married November 14, 2009.

Justin Moore and Kara Atchley were married November 14, 2009.

Debbie Brenner and Nathan Jelken were married November 21, 2009.

asbury

anniversaries!

70 Years •

Frank & Bernice Sober 01/06/40

55 Years • •

Paul & Shirley Hockett 01/14/55 Fred & Nancy Gardner 01/15/55

50 Years •

Giles & Barbara Gere 01/10/60

Giles and Barbera Gere

Frank and Bernice Sober

Fred and Nancy Gardner

Paul and Shirley Hockett Page 30

January 22, 2010

6-8:30 pm Asbury UMC Sanctuary Evening for Women

featuring

Pastor Darlene Johnson

Page 31

Save the Date for Light for Your Journey our 5th Annual Evening for Women with Pastor Darlene Johnson Friday, January 22, 2010 from 6-8.30 pm.

This always proves to be a night of encouragement, guidance and rejuvenation.

We have some special things planned for this year that you won’t want to miss! This is a great opportunity to reach out and invite the women in your life. Watch your email and church publications for more detailed information coming soon!

asbury

new members

Dana Armentrout

Steve, Michelle, Zachary and Sophia Bolden

Jim and Karen Buchan

Warren and Wilda Burdine

Karen Castle

John and Sandy Combs

Larry, Regina, Isabella and Christian De Maio

Christina Farrah

Von Margaret Graham Page 32

Christy Hidy and Jacob Guten

Chad and Mayne Knop

Dale and Sally Lewis

Stephanie Mendenhall and Courtney and Kylie Reed

Julia Millington

Cindy Morgan

Ted Raguso

Jackie Redmond

Ty and Haley Reinert

Page 33

Delois Shaver

Sandy Warren

Aaron and Abigail Wendt

Dustin & Gayla West and Braden and Sierra Holden

asbury exploration classes

if you are interested in learning more about who we are, plan to attend one of the Exploration classesdesigned to tell you more about Asbury and what we believe.

Upcoming 2010 Exploration classes will be held on – January 3, February 7, March 13, April 11, May 2 and June 6 Please call 392-1191 to reserve your place.

Childcare is available and lunch is provided

Page 34

Glorify God...Make Disciples

Page 35

www.asburytulsa.org

Page 36