Asbury Tidings - Godly Ambition

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hings are going well in Gen- nor male prostitutes nor esis 1-2. God is pleased. Everything is homosexual offenders nor

“good” except when it’s said to be “very good.”

Then the wheels fall off in chapter 3. Through the serpent’s craftiness, doubts were raised about the authority of God’s Word. When sin entered the world and their eyes were opened, God asked them for an explanation. The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate” (3:13).

One of my all-time favorite reads is a business book, “Leadership and Self- Deception.” While not listed as a “Christian” book, it certainly fits within our theology. It shows that when we do the wrong thing we tend to behave in unproductive ways. We cover-up our culpability. We deny responsibility. We blame others. We get into very unhealthy relationships with others, yet don’t see that we have contributed to the trouble. It’s always someone else’s fault (parent, child, sibling, boss, employee, etc.). Adam and Eve blamed each other, the serpent, and even had the audacity to blame God. While they professed innocence, their behavior also told the truth: they covered their nakedness and hid from God. Our November sermon series is about this concept of deception. Jesus warned against being deceived.

“He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived.

For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them” (Luke 21:8). Paul was equally concerned: Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers

thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God (1 Corinthians 6:911). James said it like this: When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers (James 1:13-17).

We are so easily deceived! Like a fish that is lured and enticed, so we become fixated on that which looks good to the eyes. Then we discover that we are hooked, cooked, and eaten.

We’re going to be talking about deception in November. It’s happening in a major way within our culture. And if it’s “out there” then it’s “in here.” I see lots of evidence of deception grabbing the hearts of our people, too. There’s a much better way to live. We want to help people find that way, truth, and life.

See you Sunday!

Dr. Tom Harrison

contents 3 4 6 8 10 12 14

What’s Happening Financial Doctor Stephen Ministry More Men Sen. Mazzei Confessions of a Foodaholic White as Snow

15 I Want It Now 17 Grandpa John 19 21 31 34

My Life: Dee Gibbs Opportunities New Members Family Room

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

Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson taralynnthompson.com

Graphic Designer Nicole McMahan nicole@lookmacreative.com

Photographer Don Kreutzweiser donsimages.com

Guest Contributors Dub Ambrose • Kim Beair Dee Gibbs • Rod Giles • Jane Hedrick • Diane King Sylvia LaRose • Sen. Mike Mazzei John Westervelt • Dwight Yoder

dwight yoder, executive director

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ave you ever wondered how decisions outside auditor to do a full are made at Asbury, or how the pas- audit each year. tors and staff are held accountable to SPRC, chaired by Steve the congregation?

Zenthoefer, deals with issues inThis month I will give a brief overview of the governance of Asbury. But first, an update on the study that has been underway since early spring regarding a possible expansion project.

You may recall that the proposal had several components: build additional adult meeting space, add parking, debt reduction, and general capital funding.

After consideration and discussion, it was decided that a more comprehensive study is required to insure consistency with the longer-term ministry needs of the church. We expect to have an updated status sometime next spring.

•••••••••••••••••••••• Asbury has a very effective governance system consisting of four groups: administrative council, trustees, finance, and staff parish relations (SPRC). Those serving on the committees are non-staff members of Asbury and are elected by the church membership each year at our church conference (this year’s conference is November 22). Membership of each group is on our website. Major decisions for the church are reviewed and approved with the appropriate committee. The committees also serve as a valuable source of counsel for Tom and the management staff. They also provide oversight and accountability for our performance.

The board of trustees, chaired by Russ McBroom, is responsible for our facility and grounds, our building use and operational policies, transportation, security, and liability issues such as insurance. There is a surprising amount of work to do in this area. We have a big campus with a lot going on.

The finance committee, chaired by Bob Craine, is concerned with everything related to the finances of the church. This includes standards, policies, transparency, reviews, and audits. They regularly review financial statements and approve all major financial decisions. Asbury’s financial operations are conducted to the highest standards. The committee retains an

volving staff, including our pastors, and particularly with the intersection between the staff and the congregation. They help set and approve policies and standards. They serve as the compensation and benefits committee. All new staff positions are approved by this group.

The administrative council (often called ad council), chaired by Tim Carney, is the top governing group of the church. Some decisions made by the other committees need to be confirmed by the council. But, in general, the council deals with those broad issues which do not fall specifically into one of the other areas. Most all-church issues get reviewed here.

Members of these committees, and especially the chairpersons, invest significant time in the governance of Asbury. While this is time-consuming on their part and for me and my team, it makes for a stronger, better-run organization. This high level of accountability and oversight also provides a high level of confidence to everyone who supports Asbury by their service and gifts. That confidence is very important.

•••••••••••••••••••••• Above I mentioned the management team. Let me briefly introduce them. Teil Blackshare directs all ministry activities. Joe Spence is in charge of facilities and support operations. Lisa Hammarstrom is our controller and is in charge of HR. •••••••••••••••••••••• In addition to the four governing groups discussed above, there are many ministry councils that serve similar roles within the work areas of the church. Asbury can only accomplish the ministry work we do because our people serve so capably in so many areas and because of generous givers. Speaking for Tom, for our pastoral staff, and for the management team, I want to thank each of you who is serving and giving to further Kingdom work as conducted through Asbury.

ASBURY TIDINGS

a visit to the financial doctor rod giles

“a

nd lead us not into temptation…”

watched the needle jump as he read through a list

“NOW, at rock bottom prices…”

of terms. Items like “interchangeable power tools,”

“Do not be deceived…”

”5.0 liter V8 with towing package,” ” personal wa-

“See the game like you are right on the side lines,

ter recreational vehicle,” “Caribbean cruise—upper

with 56 inches of digital clarity…”

“The one who sows to please his sinful nature…”

He then hooked me up to an EK something and

deck suite,” “roast prime rib with horseradish glaze” caused the needle to make huge leaps on the page.

Very embarrassing.

These are just a few of the thoughts running

When he got to a list of high end brand names

through my head during any split second of the

for clothing and personal items, I told the doctor

day. As a struggling disciple of Christ, I feel like I am

that I had had enough. I always considered quality

pulled in all directions. Especially when it comes to

merchandise to be an investment, not an expense.

how I spend my money. It is interesting that in the

The lab work came back with a very high reading

area of money our spiritual understandings of life

for impulse buying and residual buildup of monthly

are often played out.

payments clogging my ability to give to the church.

I went to my financial doctor several years ago.

He started to go over the symptoms he found.

I felt I really needed a complete checkup. So there I

They were not pretty. Here’s a partial list: red ink at

was in that paper gown thingy sitting on the exam

the end of the month, dwindling savings, one maxed

table. He used his stethoscope to hear what was in

out credit card and another on the way, frequent

my heart, he banged on my knee to see how I re-

buyers remorse, a house filled with the latest tech-

acted to stress, then took my temperature to see if I

nological gadgets, each with a remote control for a

was overheating like my old PT Cruiser, which made

specific purpose, but I can’t remember which (and

me think I really needed to trade it in soon.

they are all black). Then there were the frequent and

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sometimes heated arguments with my spouse, and

brought up a major resentment of mine. I resented

the occasional sleepless nights punctuated with re-

my old bosses because they just didn’t recognize

morse and self loathing. I was one sick puppy.

and pay me for all my talents. And if I deserved

The good doctor took out his prescription pad.

He wrote I Corinthians 10:13 across the top. He re-

more money, I certainly deserved the things that more money could buy. Yes, it made perfect sense.

cited it, “No temptation has seized you except what

The good doctor said in his experience, without

is common to man. And God is faithful: he will not

the proper spiritual perspective and the right heart,

let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But

more money just made money problems that much

when you are tempted, he will also provide a way

bigger. He lost me there since it contradicted all of

out so that you can stand up under it.” Then he said,

what the world was encouraging me to do.

“Here are some of the ways out He provides.”

The last thing he wrote at the bottom of the paper

“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful: he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 At the top of the list was Financial Peace University, taught every semester at Asbury. Then he wrote

was this: “DO I NEED IT, CAN I AFFORD IT, AND IS IT ON SALE?”

“BUDGET” in all caps. This, for me, was a very bitter

“Great words to live by,” he said.

pill to swallow. But he explained that if I didn’t tell

I could immediately relate to the last phrase, it

my money where to go, it would just go anywhere it

was the other two I couldn’t quite comprehend. Then

wanted. That part I understood.

I thought that maybe if I did everything else on the

Next on the list was a large dose of “CONTENT-

prescription, it would make more sense. He said to

MENT.” I asked the doctor what he meant by that.

set up a follow up visit so we could see my progress.

He said if I would stop comparing myself to all those

Then he left the room with a swish of the coat and a

around me and stop trying to impress them with my

wave goodbye, and a hardy “Hi Ho Silver!” like the

stuff, I could have more contentment in my life.

Lone Ranger movies on late night cable TV (that part

Then he wrote down, “A SMALL DISCIPLESHIP

I made up).

COMMUNITY.” I asked if this was some kind of

It’s been some time since I had my financial doc-

therapy group. He said in a way. He explained that

tor’s visit. I have tried to follow his advice. We live on

if I could come to understand that God was my ul-

a cash only basis, and, yes, things can be pretty tight

timate provider, relax and stop trying to take things

sometimes. I am more at peace in many areas of

into my own hands, I would become a much happier

my life, and I have seen God provide in miraculous

person, and my spending sprees would become less

ways. When I am tempted to spend impulsively or

of an issue.

with money that I don’t have, I try harder to look for

Then he said the funniest thing. He said most

the ways out that God provides. The prescription for

often money problems are not about money at all.

anyone’s recovery is free. Start with one item at a

They are a symptom of a spiritual problem.

time. You will be in the Financial Health Zone before

Here I had been thinking that if I just had more

you know it.

money to spend my life would all be better. This ASBURY TIDINGS

you hang in there perseverance lessons from a stephen minister

sylvia larose

l

ike in a garden, flowers thrive with tender nurturing. The gardener watches over the bud, breaks up the rocky soil, pours on the water of compassion and patiently waits. And when the time is right, God transforms the fragile plant into a thriving bloom. That’s how Asbury member Annette Novinger sees her calling as a Stephen Minister.

the Lord for guidance.

“I was struggling with a bad day,” Annette explains. “I felt I had nothing to give. How could I help? So I prayed—Lord, I don’t have anything to give, but I am going to my meeting out of obedience. It will be Your day.”

So Annette honored her commitment to meet and discovered it truly is God who does the work.

“Carry each other’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 “You hang in there. You put it in God’s hands, God’s timetable,” says Annette. “You listen, you believe, you encourage and let the Lord lead.”

Asbury’s Stephen Ministry provides Christ-centered, confidential care for people who are facing a crisis or life challenge. Trained lay people discover, cultivate and use the spiritual gifts they have been blessed with to bring hope, healing and a new sense of self-worth to a hurting individual through weekly one-on-one meetings. As a medical nurse and disciple of Youth with a Mission, becoming a Stephen Minister seemed like a natural way for Annette to use her gift of giving, and to experience great joy seeing God’s healing work through her.

She has been an Asbury Stephen Minister for more than three years.

“You don’t know how long a ministry will last with a person. I was with my first for two years,” explains Annette. That’s when perseverance played a major role in God’s plan.

One day when she was worn out and felt she had little to bring to her meeting, Annette asked

ASBURY TIDINGS

Upon arrival, her care receiver was excited to see her and opened up right away. Then she began to encourage and bless Annette through her difficult time, as well. Through continued weekly meetings of listening and sharing, the Lord developed a strong friendship between caregiver and care receiver. God’s agenda worked.

“She did as much for me as I did for her,” Annette continues. “God turned the table on me. I learned that He is in charge, not me. God is there and he shows up.”

Annette says by firmly following God’s plan, she entered her mission as a Stephen Minister to someone in need and came out a friend.

“We’re still friends now,” she exclaims.

However, Annette’s next assignment was a much different experience. “It was a more difficult situation, and not a natural friendship. But I made a commitment and had to trust that the Lord will lead.”

She puts into practice the skills learned through Stephen Ministry training. Most of all, she is there

when needed to offer support, faith and an ear to listen.

“You have to be patient. You must trust that God will lead and heal them. Let the Holy Spirit do it!

Then, when the answers are found, it’s really a WOW factor!”

When Annette feels like giving up, she gains strength from prayer and her Stephen Ministry group sessions. Like a support group for leaders, the Asbury Stephen Ministers meet every two weeks to share experiences, get feedback and collect tips for helping others. Annette puts it in plain words, “One of the biggest things to keep me going is their words of wisdom!”

One of the toughest things about being a Stephen

Minister is to relate to the care receiver without carrying their burden, or not being overwhelmed by the problem. But Annette knows that the Holy Spirit is right beside her, keeping her strong and keeping her going.

Scripture says, ‘I will never leave thee or forsake thee’(Hebrews 13:5). And for Annette, those words have carried her through trying times, and renewed her joy in reaching out to others as a Stephen Minister.

“It is so rewarding when you see someone put their life together, and later—they are still doing well,” concludes Annette. “He’s in charge, not me.

My Father is the Gardener.”

the need God’s Love in Action Being a Stephen Minister breathes life into you, that is why I have been one for 15 years, when it is only a two-year commitment.

While not everyone needs regular, psychological counseling, everyone needs a friend from time-totime. Having an opportunity to vent to someone can bring peace to our lives.

How do I know?

I became a Stephen Minister in January 1991 with the plan of being able to help other single Moms after being one for 12 years. Following a 10-year relationship with an Asbury member, I married John in July 1991 blending a family of seven.

Following four hospitalizations between us, including two major surgeries, his inability to work, and the death of his father, he died suddenly in October 1992. To say I was in shock is putting it mildly.

Not only did I feel cheated, I was fearful, had no confidence, and was very near a breakdown after so much stress.

I found myself in the midst of the most loving, compassionate people anywhere. They are merciful, caring, trained Stephen Ministers, which was an incredible blessing I did not expect and found hard to receive at first. It was through them, my Lord, my family and my friends that I was carried through this maze of emotion, allowing me to emerge an even

jane hedrick

stronger person than ever before.

After taking a few years to regroup, I felt a strong urge to give back and became an active Stephen Minister once again. The oxymoron about that is as a Stephen Minister you just keep on receiving by giving. It is such a blessing to be able to share with people and help them feel hope and joy returning to their lives.

There are many obstacles, challenges and changes in life that affect all of us when we need a “special friend.” We need someone we can depend on once a week for an hour, who will keep our secrets confidential and be there to walk beside us. This is a faithful person who cares and who has been where we have been in a similar way.

If you feel you have a gift of mercy, if people often share their problems with you, or ask for your help, or if you just feel you have been helped and you have something to pay forward, come and join the Stephen Ministry Team. In these economic times, you can only imagine how much you are needed.

God will bless you, I promise, and you will bless others as you show God’s love in action.

To learn details of the Monday morning and Thursday evening training options beginning in January, call Charlene at 392-1145 or cgiles@asburytulsa.org ASBURY TIDINGS

more men dub ambrose

t

his MORE MEN statement was given to me in a time of prayer in 2006. I believe it is a word from the Lord for all men in general and for the Men of Asbury specifically. It is a clear call from Christ that could be summarized in the phrase, “Christ wants more of YOU and He wants MORE of you!” That is, He wants more committed individuals and more individuals committed to spreading the Gospel through word and deed.

What does this mean for individuals?

Steve Area put it this way…

Each man needs to be an encourager as the “head coach” for his family’s team. This means being the man that gives direction and calls the plays.

It means talking about the tough issues and working through the good and bad times in a God-loving way. It means living out commitments made, to the church and each other and the countless other friends out there.

This is a call for you to lead by example, not just speak the words…to walk your talk. It is a charge for you to be a Man of God who looks beyond yourself to the future of your family and this world.

All men want to be significant and they can be so by influencing this next generation in positive ways.

They do this through active participation in mission work, small groups, and communities to interact with and impact the world by getting their families to think outside their boxes and to give to others.

Men…build the character of your family with the building blocks our church freely gives us!

Bob Funk, the Asbury Men’s President, says this…

Men must be the spiritual heads of their households. And, they must be in relationships with other

ASBURY TIDINGS

men for fellowship and accountability. Proverbs 27:17 is always a good illustration of why men should be involved with other men to grow spiritually. It reads, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

What does the MORE MEN Statement mean for the men of the Church?

It means we must lead. MORE MEN has been the guiding document of Asbury Men’s Ministries as we have refined and directed our ministry opportunities to fulfill our Mission: To help MORE MEN Know, Grow, and Show Jesus more. Asbury is committed to this and our Men’s leaders pursue the fulfillment of our Mission and of MORE MEN with focus and intensity.

Why? Because we believe, “As the men of the church go, so goes the church!” This is a two-edged statement. It suggests, first, that if there’s something not right in the church, the men can do something about it. And, secondly, it suggests that if there’s something not right in the church it’s because the men haven’t stepped up to make a difference.

As Pastor to Men, I know the responsibility and opportunity God has placed at the feet of men who determine to be Christ-Followers…to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ as Lord and “…to lead their families, friends, co-workers in living as a light in this world.”

So, here’s the challenge, from 1 Corinthians 16…13 Be alert and on your guard; stand firm in your faith. Act like men and be courageous; grow in strength! 14 Let everything you do be done in love (true love to God and man as inspired by God’s love for us).

Another translation says, “LIVE LIKE MEN!” So…here’s the call…how will you respond?

more men, this is your call!

I want more men to love Me, follow Me, represent Me. I want

more men

who will worship Me, learn of Me, and speak for Me. I want

more men

to lead their families, friends, co-workers in living as a light in this world.

I want

more men

to come along side of Me as I confront the evil in this world.

I want

more men

to relate to each other as brothers, to sacrifice for My sake, to do good in My name so many other men will know and see Me. I want

more men,

because I want the world. the world is Mine, and all who live in it.

I have given life to all, and even given My life so there may be abundant life. be givers of life, then.

I need men!

godly ambition taking spiritual priorities into the capitol

sen. mike mazzei

i

n Christian circles ambition can sometimes get a bad rap, but without ambition great accomplishments would not be possible. When ambition is partnered with good judgment, common goodness and honorable conduct, we get great leaders like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. On the other hand, when ambition is fueled by the thirst for power, greed and control, we get destructive leaders like Adolf Hiter and Saddam Hussein.

I’ve often wondered about ambition alongside my personal goals and dreams. Are they born of God’s Spirit or are they my own selfish pursuits? During my life it seems that ambition when turned over to the Lord can ultimately be extremely positive.

For 20 years I dreamed of running for political office. When I first decided to run for the Oklahoma Senate in 2000, I thought I was finally embarking upon a lifelong dream. I enthusiastically established a group of supporters and raised $20,000 to get the campaign rolling. Then, to my surprise, I felt that God asked me to lay aside my political dream and pursue the completion of important family priorities.

My wife, Noel, and I adopted our oldest daughter Maria from Russia in 1997. Then in 1999, with the help of In Vitro Fertilization, we were blessed with a miracle birth of triplets—Carissa, Caleb and Mykaela. This amazing medical process also resulted in an extra set of frozen embryos, and we believed it was our God-given duty to give the embryos a chance for

life in this world. The Holy Spirit clearly instructed me to put my political ambition on the shelf when I read Isaiah 58:7 which says to “Not turn away from your own flesh and blood.” Low and behold we got a bonus baby—Jackson, technically the quad to the triplets but born two years later!

Putting aside my ambition to be in politics and follow God’s direction, I trusted that God had a good plan for my life. I also found consolation in Psalm 35:15 which says “my times are in Your hands.” I told all my supporters I was no longer running. I sent the campaign money back to the contributors, and pretty much figured my political dreams were dead.

As time passed, our family situation settled down and our financial planning company continued to grow. And wouldn’t you know it, another political opportunity presented itself in 2004. The South Tulsa County, District 25 State Senate seat opened up. We worked extremely hard, built a great organization of wonderful volunteers, and won with a landslide 62 percent of the vote against four opponents. I felt like God rewarded my obedience to Him and faithfulness to my family.

Once in office, I wanted to make a real impact with legislation that would benefit my constituents with more jobs, better roads and funding for schools. I wanted to promote finance and retirement legislation that would save taxpayers money. And I also wanted to become a significant leader with influence in the legislature. All of this requires time and

energy.

Unfortunately, I haven’t always maintained the proper balance. My ambition for success has occasionally muddled my priorities. Family and relationships sometimes took a backseat to the tasks I had to accomplish. This past year I’ve been sidelined by a serious back injury following a car accident, and I’ve had a period of chastening and reflection. I realized I often saw activities with my kids as another “chore” on the long list of items to be done. I now realize during this season of reflection that relationship time with my family is much more important than my ambitions in business and politics.

Political ambition must also confront temptation. From the moment you are elected, people start fawning all over you, and it can easily go to your head. Self-importance and selfish ambition can really get out of control. Add to that the loneliness of being away from home, and all sorts of temptations abound. These toxic conditions lead to many of the ugly political scandals we hear about in the news.

I’ve tried to remain grounded by staying connected with other believers. I helped start a weekly

devotional at The Capitol with other Christian senators to study the Scriptures and pray together during the legislative session. I also asked a group of pastors to meet with me for accountability, prayer and discussion of important issues. Senior Pastor Tom Harrison chairs these meetings, and I always benefit from the discussion and encouragement of the local ministers who attend.

With the help of a great team over the last five years, I’ve successfully eliminated Oklahoma’s estate tax, modernized our job incentive programs, eliminated wasteful government spending, established the Back-to-School Sales Tax holiday and made adoptions easier for Oklahoma families. I’ve also become the chairman of the Finance Committee and the Assistant Majority Floor Leader. I believe the Lord has blessed my ambition as I have yielded to His sovereignty. As I continue to serve the people of Oklahoma, I would greatly appreciate your prayers for integrity and wisdom to honor the Lord in the political arena.

ASBURY TIDINGS 11

confessions of a foodaholic diane king

“h

ello, my name is Diane, and exactly what that fruit was, people always call it an apple, but the Bible never says that. I am convinced I am a foodaholic.”

In case you think I am making light of the opening lines of an A.A. meeting, I am dead serious. And if I don’t get it under control, it may very well be the death of me.

Whenever the topic of addiction arises, we tend to think of the usual, obvious choices: alcohol, nicotine, pornography. But mine is more “benign,” and possibly more insidious, because it is often unrecognized.

I love food. Yes, to the point of addiction.

One really rotten part about my addiction is that it shows. I wear the results of it, and you can look at me and have a good guess at how well I am managing it. That, and I can’t just not eat. It’s not like cigarettes where you could just not buy them. I know I need to make healthy choices, but does anybody besides me have a hard time choosing those horrible rice cakes when I could be having Virginia’s homemade rolls?

I don’t know why all the things I like the best are things that are bad for me, but I suspect it all happened in the Garden of Eden. There sat Adam and Eve munching on all the glorious foods God had supplied to them. “You may eat of anything you want here, just don’t eat from that one over there, the Tree of Life. If you do, you will surely die.” It never tells

12 ASBURY TIDINGS

it was a big, fat, juicy chocolate hanging from that tree. You’ll never convince me that Eve caused all this misery for a lousy apple!

Anyway, part of the curse that happened from that episode was the invention of calories. I do agree with my favorite columnist Dave Barry, who defines a calorie as “a unit that measures how good something tastes.”

Working at Asbury with a food addiction is like an alcoholic working in a saloon. Around every corner, there likely is a platter with something calling my name on it.

Somebody made brownies and has put them out to share. “Dear Jesus.”

Oh look! Lemon bars. “Dear Lord, help me.”

Here’s some chocolate chip cookies someone had leftover from a meeting. “Lord, give me strength.”

Nothing has improved my prayer life so much, except maybe having teenaged sons.

Your office or workplace may or may not have these same challenges, but almost every social activity we do in society revolves around, you got it, FOOD. When you go to a social event, are they serving celery with hummus? Maybe. But that tray is right next to the gorgeous pasta casserole with creamy cheese sauce, the key lime pie, and the

seven-layer taco dip. I know I should stick to the veggie plate and be strong, but I suffer along with the formerly obese woman on television who had lost hundreds of pounds and saved her health, who said, “Until carrots taste as good as chocolate, I am always going to have to struggle with this.”

Amen, sister.

Some people have struggled their whole lives with food addiction because when they were a child their mother or some significant person tended to comfort them with food.

I share this with you not to put a guilt trip on those who are wonderful cooks and like to share, not to be yet another victim story, and I sure don’t need everybody watching me every time I eat a dessert so you can criticize. Perhaps the best way you could help me and those who share my struggle is by taking our “No” as our final answer. I said it this first time, but if you keep putting that homemade bread under my nose and urging me to try it because “One little piece won’t hurt anything,” it is the same as you offering a drink to an alcoholic. I may

Whenever the topic of addiction arises, we tend to think of the usual, obvious choices: alcohol, nicotine, pornography.

But mine is more “benign,” and possibly more insidious, because it is often unrecognized.

“There, there, don’t take it so hard. Here, have a piece of cake, you’ll feel better.”

My story is just the opposite. I used to be painfully thin. Growing up, the word “skinny” for me was not a compliment. It seemed no matter what I ate, I could not gain weight. My metabolism changed after I had three babies, and for the first time in my life, I could not eat whatever I wanted without putting on unwanted pounds. Perhaps that is one reason it seems so hard for me now.

None of this is merely about how I look, although I often catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror and wonder who the heck that woman is. It is more importantly about my health. It is about blood sugar: do I really want to tip over that line to Type II Diabetes to which I am so perilously close?

It’s about cholesterol levels in the danger zone. My genes are not on my side so I need to do something now before it’s too late. Although I have no grandchildren yet, I really would like to be around when I do and to see them grow up.

not be able to say “no” the second time. Do you see my eye twitching and my hands shaking? This is not about my doubting your ability as a cook!

We all have our own “box of rocks” to lug around.

They all come from the same source, the father of lies, who tells us that this is what will make us feel happy, feel better, fulfill us, but whatever he is telling you, just know it is a lie. And the only One who can fill that void with joy is Jesus Christ, and we always have the choice to trade our box of rocks for The Rock Himself.

Praise Him, and pass the celery!

ASBURY TIDINGS 13

White As Snow Editor’s note: Due to the nature of this subject and the wish not to exploit the person but rather reach out to other women dealing with sexual addiction, the author’s identify has remained anonymous.

a

s a child growing up in the North, I remember lots of beautiful, white SNOW! I loved looking out over those white fields and seeing the pureness and beauty of the untouched snow.

Now Oklahoma snow does not quite compare. I hate to see the slushy, dirty snow on the side of the road. Oh, how I long to see the pure white snow in my memories.

As an adult, many times I have felt that the slushy, dirty snow was more reflective of my life. As a child I experienced serious isolation and loneliness. I became vulnerable to activity that I now understand was sexual abuse. This became a source of tremendous shame and guilt. I was a Christian. I went to church. I was a “good girl.” I was stained!

I began to try and numb the pain with alcohol and drugs and developed some addictions in my life. Sadly, sexual abuse often leads to promiscuity, which only leads to more shame and guilt. The sexual abuse as a child, coupled with exposure to pornography and the promiscuity as a young woman, led to another addiction in my life: sexual addiction.

Wow, can women say that? It seems okay for a man to admit this but not a woman. How can this be? I was a Christian. I went to church. I was a “good girl.” I was stained!

I was not having fun. Quite the opposite. I hated myself. I wanted to die at times. I thought if I got married I could end the guilt and shame, but I struggled every day with my past. I struggled with my thoughts and desires.

Needless to say…I had “issues.” I had problems trusting and giving my heart and emotions to my husband. I had trouble receiving his love. I wanted to be free of the struggle.

I tried very hard to “get over” my past. I tried to become more involved in church. I thought it would help but I was convinced that none of the other “church ladies” had done the things I had done. I was fearful to allow anyone to know my struggles. I was a Christian yet I felt very stained!

Over the next few years I believe that God allowed some events to happen in my life that began to bring about His restoration.

A favorite verse of mine is Lam 3:22 “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed for his

14 ASBURY TIDINGS

compassions never fail…they are new every morning…great is thy faithfulness!” I began to understand that I could not change the past but that God could give me a new future.

I began to attend a ministry at Asbury church for people with “hurts, habits and hang-ups.” It is called Celebrate Recovery. The ministry leader, Glen, said “we are only as sick as our secrets.” How could I ever share the kind of secrets I had? What would people think?

As I came back week after week and began to work through the “12 Step Study,” I learned I was not alone in my struggles. There were other women in church who were struggling with their pasts, others who had made similar mistakes. There were also lots of others recovering from the deep hurts of sexual abuse.

I was invited to attend the original Celebrate Recovery in California. I was blessed by the teaching and the worship. But the real healing began when I attended a “small group.” The “small group” was actually named “Women with sexual addictions.” I was surprised to even see it in print. I had never heard another “church woman” admit this.

As I walked into the room FULL of women, suddenly I was with other women who were being healed and delivered from sexual addictions. Normal looking women!

Skinny women, fat women, beautiful women, not so beautiful women. Young women, older women. I burst into tears. I am not alone! I counted 52 women in my “small group.” What I heard in the next hour was truly life-changing.

Isaiah 1:18 says: “…though your sins are like scarlet they shall be made white as snow.”

I am not holding in terrible secrets anymore, and I am not afraid of my past. The shame and guilt no longer have a hold on me and neither does the addiction.

I have been made “WHITE AS SNOW!” As white as the beautiful snow from my childhood.

I am “celebrating recovery” in a way I did not believe was possible a few years ago.

If you are one of those “stained people,” God is not through touching your life regardless of your hurt, habit or hang-up. I close with the words from a beautiful hymn: “Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it WHITE AS SNOW.”

lifted up

I Want It Now. Right Now. kim beair, ms, lpc, ncc

W

e live in an instant-gratification doing things the “old fashioned way” or having to wait culture. Don’t get me wrong—there is five minutes for anything becomes an invitation to a

nothing inherently wrong in this. In fact, there are so many ways we can maximize certain mundane tasks in order to spend quality time in more important tasks.

Think, too, about all those people you know who couldn’t save time if their lives depended on it. You know, the ones who seem unable to think or act efficiently, leaving themselves worn out and their families frustrated and neglected. These are the folks to whom we try to teach the concept “work smarter, not harder.”

Certain aspects of our instant-gratification culture are actually a help to these people. Thank goodness for the microwave, instant coffee and text messaging—if they can figure out how to use it!

Saving time in some places, and using it more wisely in others, is Godly. However, too many people in our society become plagued by shortsightedness; a contraindication—or “side effect”—of time-saving.

Just like everything, modern convenience can segue quickly into short-sightedness before we even realize it. We start by saving time via a variety of methods in a variety of situations and become so accustomed to it that

bad attitude, bad behavior, and bad witness.

Yes, I said it, bad witness.

Oftentimes we forget to see past the moment of our inconvenience to the ramifications of our thoughts, words and deeds—and not just for the moment, but

ASBURY TIDINGS 15

lifted up

sometimes for eternity.

“To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted” Titus 1:15 (New International Version).

Do you know someone who checks their email and sends three texts before walking out the door because “it will just take a second,” only to end up running late?

Then on the way to drop the kids off at school or an event with the spouse, calls are returned on the cell phone. Meals are cooked using prepackaged “fast

stories allow us to strip away external factors and study the human mind—where shortsightedness always begins. Texting, email, packaged foods, prescription pain meds and cosmetic surgeries do not cause or become the result of shortsightedness—people do. All these things can be good things, as long as wisdom and discernment are applied.

“Everything is permissible—but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible—but not everything is constructive” 1 Corinthians 10:23 (New International Version).

“To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted.” Titus 1:15 (NIV) food” fixed at home; clogging the arteries of the whole family. Everyone has been texting and emailing all day, leaving no time at home for personal connection. In fact, at the end of the day everyone has “connected” so much via technology, they don’t have need or desire to say anything else.

People engage in elective surgeries to repair many years of bodily abuse and neglect, sometimes resulting in weeks or years of complications. An investment in a lifestyle change, however, (involving discipline and self control) might achieve a better result. Prescription pain medicine addiction is rampant. Immediate symptom relief is the goal, but oftentimes it ends in the opposite effect.

Again, nothing is necessarily wrong with these medical advances, as long as the thought isn’t merely to go with the short-cut, rather than researching all the options and consequences beforehand, and then acting responsibly. The mindset that anything is fixable leaves many making unhealthy, unwise and “un-Godly” decisions because they know just about anything can be “fixed or undone.” More people clamor to read an article on a quick fix rather than on discipline, self-control and planning.

The Bible is full of examples of people who didn’t have our technology or modern convenience. These 16 ASBURY TIDINGS

God told Abraham and Sarah they would have a child, but rather than wait on His timing, they took a short-sided short-cut to make it happen in THEIR timing. The desire to obtain knowledge quickly caused Eve to make a step that still impacts humankind today—one bite to destruction!

The problem with short-sightedness is that we shortcircuit our moral compass. This is when we live in denial regarding our present circumstances and decisions at the expense of present or long-term results. The problem here is that when we actually BENEFIT from a bad decision, the positive result will encourage us to continue negative or harmful behavior. Sadly, short-cuts and short-sightedness always seem more attractive than the “right” answer. Even if we obtain negative results from our own short-sightedness, we will still tend to replicate negative behavior expecting a different result the next time—this is the nature of human-kind.

Do not be deceived. God and His Word (instruction and wisdom) are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Perform a moral-compass check today to learn if you need to step out of denial and back into God’s will and purpose for your life.

Jacob: Father of the Twelve Tribes john C. westervelt

J

acob’s mother Rebekah used deceit Mesopotamia, to the home of Laban her brother. to cause her husband Isaac, who Jacob left Beersheba, fifty miles south of Jerusawas old and blind, to bless Jacob lem, on his five hundred mile journey north to Haran, rather than Esau, her first-born. Isaac blessed Mesopotamia. He stopped for the night at a town ten Jacob, saying, “May God always give you plenty of rain for your crops, and good harvest of grain, and new wine. May many nations be your slaves. Be the master of your brothers. May all your relatives bow low before you. Cursed are all who curse you, and blessed are all who bless you.”

The moment Esau learned that Jacob had stolen his blessing, he vowed to kill him. Rebekah was so frantic that she insisted that Jacob flee to northern

miles north of Jerusalem. Using a stone for a pillow, he slept and dreamed.

Jacob saw a ladder that reached into the heaven with angels going up and down. God was at the top and said, “I am the God of Abraham and Isaac. I entrust the land on which you lie to you and your descendants…I will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land.” Before departing this place, Jacob named the town Bethel, meaning “house of God.”

ASBURY TIDINGS 17

Grandpa John In the vicinity of Haran, Jacob came upon a well

barren. Leah and Rachel each gave their maid to Jacob

with sheep gathered all around. He asked one of the

as a wife, and each maid had two sons. In time, Rachel

shepherds if he knew Laban. He answered, “Yes, I

became pregnant and presented to Jacob his eleventh

know him, and that is Rachel his daughter coming with

son, whom she named Joseph.

her sheep, for she is a shepherdess.”

Jacob worked fourteen years to pay for his two

When Rachel was a stone’s throw away, Jacob could

wives and six more years to accumulate flocks of his

see that she had coal-black hair and an olive complex-

own. Then Jacob journeyed to his home in Canaan.

ion. The loose white garment she was wearing clung

At an overnight campsite near home, Jacob wrestled

Joshua secured the land promised by the Lord and then divided up the land, creating a territory for each of the twelve tribes.

In keeping with Jacob’s significance to Israel’s history, the twelve territories were named after Jacob’s sons. to her lithe body when the wind blew. As she came

all night with God, and God named him Israel, the

closer, Jacob focused on her sparkling, dark eyes and

name of the nation of Jacob’s people to this day. Ja-

her friendly smile. Jacob knew immediately that this

cob, through God’s wisdom, approached Esau in an

cousin was the woman he wanted to marry.

exceedingly humble way with many gifts and much

As soon as Laban heard that Rebekah’s son Jacob

deference. Jacob’s fear of Esau became unfounded,

had come to Haran, he ran to meet him and invited

for his brother, yielding to Jacob’s obvious change of

him into his house. In a few days, Jacob said to Laban,

heart, welcomed him home with open arms.

“I want to marry Rachel. Let me work for you for seven years to win her.”

The seven years seemed like a few days to Jacob because of his love for Rachel. When the time was

God told Jacob to make his home in Bethel. On a journey from Bethel to Ephrath (Bethlehem), Rachel went into difficult labor with Benjamin. The baby lived, but the mother died.

up, Laban hosted a feast for family and friends. Leah,

Jacob always had a passion for Rachel, his first

Rachel’s older sister, was among the guests. While Ra-

love. This special love carried over to their son Joseph,

chel was beautiful, Leah was plain and weak-eyed. The

the one who would be singled out to wear the coat of

women of the town were fond of Leah and felt bad that

many colors. God used all these circumstances to send

she had not married.

Joseph into Egypt to prepare a way for the Jews to

Late at night after Jacob had his fill of food and

survive the famine that would come to Canaan.

wine, Laban directed him into the tent of marriage.

While living in Egypt for 430 years, the families of

Upon awaking the next morning, Jacob found that

the twelve sons of Jacob multiplied as God had prom-

he was with Leah. He asked Laban, “Why have you

ised. Finally the Hebrews were brought out of Egypt by

cheated me?”

Moses, wandered for forty years in the wilderness, and

Laban answered, “It is not our practice to marry off the younger daughter before the first-born.”

were led into the Promised Land by Joshua. Joshua secured the land promised by the Lord and then di-

Jacob agreed to work to make Rachel his second

vided up the land, creating a territory for each of the

wife. First there was a week alone with Leah, followed

twelve tribes. In keeping with Jacob’s significance to

by the wedding of Rachel and Jacob. Then Jacob began

Israel’s history, the twelve territories were named after

another seven years of work for Laban. While Leah was

Jacob’s sons (Genesis 27-35).

giving Jacob six sons and a daughter, Rachel remained 18 ASBURY TIDINGS

Other Old Testament stories at www.jwestervelt.com

My Life...

A Plan for My Life

W dee gibbs

e all have a life story. At 34, I decided my own strength and I had failed.

to turn my will over to God and let Christ write my story. Here it is from my perspective (I imagine He would have a different point of view!).

As a child, I did not go to church. It wasn’t until I turned 11, invited to church by a friend, that I accepted Christ as my Savior.

Hitting 30 was one of the worst experiences. I was unhappy with my life choices and not where I wanted to be with God. I began to realize that my life was unmanageable because I was a mess. I wasn’t making Godly choices so I attend CR (Celebrate Recovery) to keep focused.

Since I had two young girls, I volunteered in the children’s ministry and that is where I learned Bible stories for the first time. It seemed the more I read about God, the more I wanted to know. But life was still a struggle, and I was growing weary. I kept waiting for God to swoop down and “save” me from it.

Little did I know…He had a better plan!

By 34 years old, I was branded with the “Big D” on my forehead for divorce (or at least I thought everyone could see the guilt and shame and failure like a flashing neon light). I felt dejected. My childhood dreams of being a wife and a mother were shattered and, despite the fact I applied myself with all my strength, I proved myself inept at both. I had tried doing life in

When I finally got honest with myself, admitted it to the Lord, and asked for His help and guidance, He was able to work with me in amazing ways. I finally surrendered and made Him Lord of my life!

First, He had to clean up my thinking. It was as I divided up the possessions as per the court order that I was confronted with my greed (claiming that I have greater needs for physical and material things than others)* and gluttony (pampering myself by buying things I didn’t “need” in order to soothe a real or perceived neglect or abuse)*. As I watched the things I had put so much time, energy, and money into accumulating walk out the door, I felt as empty as the rooms they once decorated.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart is also” (Luke 12:34) became real. I learned the lesson that a home is not décor or belongings. One by one He began to replace the lies I had believed with the truth of His Kingdom principles.

Asbury was ministering to me in numerous ways. I attended several communities as my status changed.

I attended several of the church’s support groups and even started one for co-dependents! This journey required my church family and friends.

His word says, “If you seek me with your whole heart, you will find me.” (1 Chron. 28:9) I began seeking God in all places—everywhere I went I looked for ASBURY TIDINGS 19

My Life...

His presence, His hand at work. I saw Him clearly in nature (like I did when I was a little girl), the Word and Godly people. His revelations were there for all to see…even me and yet, I had walked past them numerous times. He kept reminding me, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

The divorce left me without any dreams or direction for the future—I begged Him to show me His purpose for my life!

One day, I just knew God’s plan was for me to be an author, a Christian counselor and a retreat speaker. I felt incapable, unworthy. And that was true—in my own strength.

His word says, “If you seek me with your whole heart, you will find

me.” (1 Chron. 28:9) I began seeking God in all places—everywhere I went I looked for His presence, His hand at work. I saw Him clearly in nature (like I did when I was a little girl), the Word and Godly people.

But this time, He was providing guidance. The Spiritual gifts and the strength to carry it out. I listened to the promptings in my heart. I left the details of how and when He would work “The Master Plan” to Him. How freeing! I just had to listen day by day and I got better and better with practice!

Well today, He has begun to show me fulfillment of what He revealed to me over 15 years ago. I have taught retreats, conferences, communities in Asbury and bible studies. I have started a book nearly 10 years ago that I look forward to finishing in His time.

I am a pastoral counselor at Plumbline Ministries. For this job, He called me to downsize, give possessions 20 ASBURY TIDINGS

to the poor (this time it wasn’t as hard!), and give up the security I found in my full-time job. I now am a full-time local missionary raising my own support.

“Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life.” (Phil 3;8 MSG) But God had a better plan…to grow me into His likeness. I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. My relationship with Him is precious.

My prayer for you is that you find these things in your journey as well. God has a plan for your life…a plan for your good…are you ready to live His plan? *from Stickman’s Battles by Terry Ewing, founder of Plumbline Ministries.

asbury

opportunities

Riders,” who meet in front of the

Doors of Asbury posters are at the

statue on the west parking lot each

Welcome Centers...FREE! Suitable

Sunday at 1 pm for a ride before

for framing.

fellowship time.

New Additions to the Library

general information Breakfast Served from 7:15-9 am in the CLC. Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal. $3 for adults & $1 for children 12 & under.

Sunday Morning Worship 8 am, Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) 9:15 am, Sanctuary (Contemporary) 9:15 am, CLC (Open House Worship) (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) 11 am, Sanctuary (Traditional) 11 am, Venue68 (Modern with sign interpreter) Sunday Evening Worship 6:30 pm, Venue68 (Modern) Sundays for Children and Students 6 Weeks - 4 Years: 8, 9:15 & 11 am K-6th Grades: 9:15 or 11 am 7th, 8th & 9th Grades: 9:15 & 11 am 10th-12th Grades: 9:15 am only Adult Discipleship Communities Sunday at 8, 9:15, & 11 am, “Carpenter’s Workshop” on Wednesdays at 6 pm and Shepherd’s Flock on Tuesdays at 6 pm. NEW, “Salt & Light” at 11 am, Sunday in Rm. 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

Surgery or Hospitalization Scheduled?

The Asbury Library is a wonderful

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead

continue to contribute books to our

of time by calling Pam at 392-1199,

Library.

resource. Thank you to all who

ext. 253, so your pastors can be in prayer for you. When you enter the

Mark Bennett’s New CD

hospital, please designate Asbury

Mark’s new CD, “Healing Songs (for

as your church. The after-hours

Elliot),” is available Sunday morn-

pastoral emergency line can be

ings in the gazebo and around town

reached by calling 492-1771, select-

at Tulsa-area Kaffe Bona locations.

ing option 6, and leaving a message

All proceeds benefit The Little Light

for the pastor on call.

House school.

Engaged Couples

access

If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or

Hands of Love Sign Choir Sundays, 6-7 pm, Rm. 2821

use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time

Friends in Christ Community

for Couple-to-Couple (required

Sundays, 11 am, Rm. 1507

premarital sessions). Six months to one year lead time suggested.

bible study RoadMap

The Gazebo is Open

Check out the Fall 2009 RoadMap

CDs of Tom’s message of the day

courses in the new brochure and

are available immediately following

on the Asbury website at www.

the worship service - $3. Prayer

asburytulsa.org. Accept Pastor

Journals are also available for $5

Tom’s challenge to get actively

each.

involved in digging deeper into God’s Word—there is something for

Recycling

everyone!

Recycle unwanted paper products.

Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots.

care and support Visits to Asbury Members Asbury has a unique group of vol-

Asbury Family News is available at

unteers (Asbury Connection) who

the Welcome Centers. It includes

regularly visit people who are either

hospital lists, births, deaths,

homebound or in nursing homes. If

marriages, baptisms and military

you are interested in being visited,

listings.

call Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at 3924583 or asluice@asburytulsa.org ASBURY TIDINGS 21

Résumé Assistance and Review

Divorce Recovery

Do you have an effective résumé?

Wonder What Stephen Ministry is All About?

An extra set of eyes can make a

You’re invited to an Information

For those suffering from the early,

difference. E-mail your résumé to

Meeting: Monday, November 30,

highly emotional stages of divorce

employ.transitions@yahoo.com.

9:30-10:30 am OR Thursday, Decem-

and separation trauma. Childcare

ber 3, 6:30-7:30 pm. Training begins

available.

Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm 1335.

Preparing for the Holidays Grief Workshop

early January, either Monday mornings or Thursday evenings. Stephen

Saturday, November 7, 10 am-12

Divorce Rebuilding

Ministry is God’s love in action.

Noon, Parlor. Experiencing grief

Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm 1335. For

Questions? Call Charlene, 392-1145,

can be especially painful during the

those ready to rebuild their lives

cgiles@asburytulsa.org.

after separation or divorce. Child-

holidays. We’ll share ideas about

care available.

the best way to spend the holidays

Prayer Card Sending Team

during those particularly challeng-

Usually meets first and third

ing times of life following a loss. No

Eating Disorder Recovery

Mondays at 10 am in Room 1621 to

cost, no registration. Carl Novinger,

First and third Wednesdays, 12-1:30

send cards with God’s encouraging

Facilitator.

pm, Room 1621. For individuals

words and our prayers to those

seeking support in the recovery

who are ill or going through hard

process. Bring sack lunch.

Overcoming Job Transitions (OJT)

times. Cards and care packages are

Large group time followed by

also sent to Asbury-related military

special interest breakout sessions

personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

about networking, resumes, inter-

at GRMOHLER@aol.com for more

First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30

viewing, using the internet for job

information, or call Ruth at 392-

pm, Rm 1506.

hunting and more. Reach out and

1146.

bring a neighbor! Meets the third

Mental Health Support for Families

Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm

Asperger Support Group

For family members or caregivers

- 9 pm, Family Room. Questions?

First Thursday from 7-9 pm in Rm

of people affected by a mental

Contact Russ Knight at ddknight1@

1506. For mothers of children with

illness. 4th Thursdays from 1:30 - 3

cox.net or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Asperger Syndrome. Childcare

pm in the Parlor. No meetings in

available.

November and December.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Military Connection

Third Thursday, from 1:30-3 pm

Please join us in praying for our

in Rm 1621. Christian hope, sup-

troops in harm’s way and their

port and education for friends and

families. Periodic care packages and

family of those with Alzheimer’s or

monthly encouragement cards with

other dementia.

God’s Word are sent to Asbury-re-

120 Minutes of Stephen Ministry Skills Thursday, November 19, 6:30-8:30 pm, Room 2500. Learn valuable Stephen Ministry skills you can use right away. This workshop type session is similar to Stephen Ministry training. Topics include: Overview of Crises, The Art of Listening, The Dimensions of Forgiveness, and Dealing with Depression. For anyone! No cost. Teachers: Sheila Slater and Charlene Giles.

22 ASBURY TIDINGS

lated military personnel. The Prayer Cancer Support Group

Ministry also covers them in prayer.

Second Sunday of each month, 4-6

Please send contact information

pm, Parlor. For those living with

(complete name and address) to

cancer and their family and friends.

Gwen Mohler at grmohler@aol.com or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Asbury Bear Bags

will combine music, high energy,

• 6th Grade Preparing for Adoles-

Asbury Bear Bags with coloring

verse memory and a Bible lesson

cence 7 – 8 pm

books have comforted young

in a setting that encourages kids to

• Childcare (for children under 5

children for many years, but now

learn about worship. Our lessons

with parents in a Roadmap Class) 6

you may give a Bear Bag with a

will tie right into what we are doing

– 9 pm

scripture-based journal included

on Sunday mornings. Can’t wait to

instead! Great for teens and adults.

see you there! You may pick up a

Children’s Choirs

Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear

registration form in the Children’s

4 years old through 6th graders,

to someone who is grieving. For

Ministry area. For more information

Wednesdays, September 9 – De-

more information, contact Beth at

contact the age appropriate staff

cember 2 , 6 – 6:50 pm; 6:50-7:10

392-1116.

member: Kindergarten: Kim B. at

pm, Transition; 7:15-8 pm, WNL

392-1165, 1st & 2nd grade: Amber

• 4 & 5 year olds: Joyful Noise,

at 392-1171, or 3rd – 5th grade:

Room 2945. Childcare for Parents in

Jennifer at 392-4582.

Roadmap

children Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the

• Kindergarten: Joyful Sound, Room Preparing for Adolescence

2946, Chapel

Wednesdays, September 9

• 1st & 2nd Grade: Music Makers,

Core Childcare Hours

– November 18, 7 – 8 pm, 6th

KRS, Room 2927

Parents who are involved in

graders in the 5.6 room. Parental

• 3rd, 4th & 5th Grade: Young Musi-

RoadMap classes during these core

Permission Required. It’s better to

cians, Adult Choir, room 2706 • H2O:

hours will have childcare provided

prepare than repair! “Preparing for

rm. 2909

for children 6 weeks - 12 years of

Adolescence” is a course designed

• 6th Grade Preparing, 5.6, Room

age with no reservations needed:

especially for our fifth graders. We

2901

Sun: 8 am - 12 pm

will discuss the topics of inferior-

Children’s choirs are for children

Mon & Tue: 9 am - 12 pm

ity, conformity, puberty, romantic

ages four by 9-1-09 through 6th

Tue, Wed, & Thur: 6 pm - 9 pm

love, and identity from a biblical

grade. We are excited to be working

perspective. Our reference book is

with your children again! Children’s

Murdock Villa

“Preparing for Adolescence,” by

choir is fun, fun, fun and culminates

A mission opportunity for our 5th

Dr. James Dobson. Each week kids

in the Christmas Pageant Program

& 6th grade students. Usually the

will have class discussion & two

on Sunday, December 6, at 6

second Sunday of the month from

nights of discussion at home with

pm. The Children’s choirs will be

12:30 - 3:30 pm. Cost is $5 for CiCi’s

parents. The cost is $15 per student,

singing in several of our Sunday

Pizza. We’ll eat then visit Murdock

for his/her own workbook. Please

morning services. You may pick up

Villa where we will play Bingo and

call Kim Broadhurst at 392-1165,

a registration form in the Children’s

do crafts with special needs adults.

kbroadhurst@asburytulsa.org for

Ministry area. For more informa-

It is an amazing time to witness in

more information.

tion, please feel free to email Marti

preschool and elementary lobbies.

at mmorris@asburytulsa.org or call

our local community. Limited to 10 kids each month.

Wednesday Night Happenings

392-1147.

September 9 – November 18.

Wednesday Night Live

• Join us for dinner in the CLC, 5 - 6

Wednesdays, September 9 – No-

pm

vember 18, 7 – 8 pm, Kindergarten

• Children’s Choirs (4 year olds – 6th

– 5th Grade. Beginning in their choir

grade) 6 - 6:50 pm

room and pick up in Chapel. Join

• Children’s Programming - WNL

us on Wednesday nights for wor-

(Kindergarten – 5th grade) 7 – 8 pm

ship in the Chapel—Kid Style. We ASBURY TIDINGS 23

Upward Basketball & Cheer

and actors and actresses to make

asburydynamicmarriage@

Parents are needed to be coaches,

this a memorable evening for all

windstream.net. Limited to first 12

referees and squad leaders. If you

involved. Call Jennifer Barnes

paid couples in each class. Next

would like to volunteer, an Upward

392-4582 or jbarnes@asburytulsa.

class starts on Tuesday, February

volunteer form and background

org by December 7 if your child is

16 OR Sunday, February 21, 6:30 - 9

check must be completed and re-

interested. Adult help with rehears-

pm, Rm 2201. Childcare available

turned. All volunteers must attend

als and the program is critical to

on Tuesdays only.

an Upward training on November

help get the message delivered on

14, at 9 am, or November 19, at

this special night.

6 pm. Registration forms and

Attention Engaged Couples If you are planning to use an

volunteer forms will be available in

discipleship

children’s ministry and also online

Discipleship Communities

use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to

at www.asburytulsa.org/ministries/

If you have not yet found an Adult

book ASAP to allow ample time

children/index.html

Discipleship Community check out

for Couple-to-Couple (required

For more information or if you have

“Get Involved” on our website,

premarital sessions). Six months to

questions, contact Kim Broadhurst

www.asburytulsa.org or pick up a

one year lead time is suggested.

at at 392-1165 or

brochure at one of our Welcome

kbroadhurst@asburytulsa.org

Centers.

Asbury pastor to officiate and/or

Milestone Wedding Anniversaries Email your upcoming Milestone

Children’s Choirs Christmas Pagent

endowments

Our Second Sunday of Advent will

Leave a legacy that continues

Carolyn Schutte at brucars@cox.net

spotlight the Asbury’s Children’s

to give forever to a ministry you

or call Ruth at 392-1146.

choirs as they present, “Home for

want to support. There are endow-

Christmas,” Sunday, December

ments that support many areas

membership

7, at 6 pm, in the sanctuary. The

of Asbury’s outreach including

Asbury Exploration

drama is taken right out of our

children, youth, music, missions,

Come to a lunch/class to learn

current events and will feature the

and training of pastors as well as a

more about becoming a member

Young Musicians choir as actors

General endowment. You can easily

of Asbury. Sunday, November 1,

telling the story. Joyful Sound,

impact a ministry thru your will

from 12:15-2 pm, in Community

Joyful Noise and the Music Makers

or a current gift. Contact Dwight

Life Center. Lunch provided and

dressed in tinsel halos and match-

Yoder at dyoder@asburytulsa.org

childcare is available for children

ing Christmas shirts will tell the age

or 392-1113.

six weeks through 6th grade. Call

old Christmas story through songs.

You will not want to miss this

marriage & family

heartwarming evening.

Dynamic Marriage Give us 9 weeks…we’ll give you

Christmas Eve Family Service

a dynamic marriage! This is an

Thursday, December 24, at 5 pm.

interactive class that will help you

For 5th and 6th graders. Rehearsals

replace old habits with new ones

are December 9, 16 & 23, 4 - 5:30

in a unique, safe environment.

pm. The 5th and 6th graders have

Go from good to great, mediocre

the privilege of presenting the

to magnificent or hurt to healed.

“Christmas Story” to the congrega-

Cost: $130/couple (many materials

tion at the 5 pm, Christmas Eve

included, scholarships available)

Family Service. We would love

$50 holds your spot. To register,

instrumentalists, scripture readers

contact Jackie or Ron at 251-6665 or

24 ASBURY TIDINGS

Anniversary (5,10,15,20, etc.) to

392-1191 to register.

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.

November 4 Pec Clark November 11 Don Herrold November 18 Todd Johnson November 25 Bill Johnson 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 and Riverside), and are open to anyone 60 years and up. Choose a day and join us this week! For more information, contact Bud at bdmathes@ cox.net (Thursdays), or Jim at rober@cox.net (Fridays.)

Asbury Boy Scouts/Veteran’s Celebration Pancake Breakfast The Asbury Scout Leadership Foundation invites you to “A Salute to our Veterans,” to be held on Saturday, November 7, from 7-11 am, in the CLC! It is our privilege to salute those men and women who have served their country as members of the armed services, and those today who proudly wear the uniform of the Active, Reserve and National Guard forces.

Please join the Asbury Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venture Crew members for an all-you-can-eat Pancake Breakfast, while honoring our veterans. This year, no entrance fee will be charged, though we will gratefully accept all donations to benefit the Boy Scouting programs of Asbury.

Car Care Workday Saturday, November 21. Car Care Saturday is an every-other-month workday provided for Asbury’s widows and single moms, through our men’s ministry. While the ladies wait in the comfort of the café, volunteers check tires, belts, fluids, filters and batteries. They also vacuum and wash the vehicles, and then update owners on what’s running smoothly and what needs professional attention. This free service gives our men the opportunity to put their faith in to action through loving and serving those in need. To volunteer, contact Debbie in the Adult Ministries Office, 3921177 or dwallis@asburytulsa.org.

missions Thanksgiving Food Baskets Thanksgiving Food Baskets will be assembled and delivered on Monday, November 23. Assembly will begin at 2 pm in the CLC. Delivery will begin at 5 pm and 5:30 pm. The cost for one food basket is $40. Please make checks payable to Asbury UMC marked “food baskets.” Contact Beth McCalman to volunteer.

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.

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 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.

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

ASBURY TIDINGS 25

• 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 cartridgesbenefit 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 the Asbury parking lot-benefit Asbury.

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

missions/vim • November 4-8: Monterrey, Mexico, Medical • November 11-15: Rio Bravo, Mexico, Men’s Construction For more about these exciting mission opportunities, contact Marilene Long at 392-1164 or mlong@ asburytulsa.org

music Chancel Choir

The leadership of Asbury’s prayer

Wednesdays, 7 pm, Choir Room

ministry would like to remind you

New Covenant Orchestra

is open not only to individuals

that the main facility Prayer Room

Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm, Rm 1510

desiring to pray in a quiet, medita-

Children’s Choirs

groups within communities and

tive atmosphere, but also to prayer

Wednesdays, 6 pm, various rooms

ministries. Just give Debbie in the

Asbury Power & Light

1177 to reserve the Prayer Room for

Sundays, 8:15-9:15 am, Rm 1510 Celebration Ringers

Adult Ministries office a call at 392your group on a weekly or monthly basis.

Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 pm, Rm 2506

Prayer Room Days & Times

Youth Orchestra

you at these times:

Our prayer rooms are accessible to

Wednesdays, 5:30 pm, Rm 1506

• Mason Chapel & Venue68:

Asbury Ringers

the interior doors.

Sundays, 7 am - 12:30 pm through

Wednesdays, 6-6:50 pm, Rm 2506

• Main Facility, Mason Chapel, &

Perpetual Light

- 9 pm; Saturday, 10 am - 3 pm;

Thursdays, 11 am-12:30 pm, Rm 2506 Saints of Swing Dixieland Band

Venue68: Monday - Friday, 8 am Sunday, 12:30 pm - 9 pm. To obtain pass codes, call Debbie in the Adult Ministries office at 392-1177.

Thursdays, 7-9 pm, Rm 1510

Prayer Service of Remembrance

Asbury Singing Ambassadors

son Chapel. Join Pastors Darlene

Sunday, December 13, 5 pm, Ma-

Tuesdays, 1:30 – 3 pm, Choir room

Johnson and Charlie Ryser, as well

prayer

programs, in a service of 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.

26 ASBURY TIDINGS

Prayer Room Reservations

as members of the grief support and healing. The emphasis will be on grief and loss experienced within the past year or two. A time has been set aside for participants who so desire to light a candle in memory of those they’ve lost. This special service can offer “strength for today and hope for tomorrow.”

recovery Celebrate Recovery Come join this supportive group of people each Monday night at 6 pm. Dinner at 6 pm; Worship from 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 Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at

rounds of cards, dominoes, or

during that week, you find you need

whatever board or card game you

to cancel, please also let us know

chose? You KNOW you’d love it! If

as we need to give an accurate

you’re a senior adult age 55 and up,

count to the cooks. Should you

come check it out in Room 2820.

choose, you may make a donation

Bring a friend and stay for as long

for the meal when you check in that

as you like! This fun group will

morning. Come join us for fun and

meet every third Thursday, so mark

fellowship!

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

ozyanks2000@yahoo.com

selected, but those who express

Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class

days ahead of time so they can

Mondays, Wednesdays and 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 and Fridays from 8:30-9 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 – 4 pm.

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

an interest will be contacted a few make plans accordingly. For more information or to sign up for the call list, contact Sally Wood, sally-wood@sbcglobal.net

Senior Adult Christmas Dinner & Light Tour Monday, December 7. Come join the senior adults of Asbury for Christmas food, fun and fellowship!

We’ll gather at the church at 4:45 pm and depart for Muskogee at 5 pm, aboard a luxury tour bus. We will dine there at the Whitlock Wishouse, a 10,000 square foot bed & breakfast that serves as a fundraising and training center for Women in Safe Homes, a local shelter for victims of domestic violence and assault. The house is a veritable museum of artifacts collected by owner, Jerry Whitlock, on his world travels! Following a delicious meal, we will load up and head for the

November Tweenagers Program & Lunch

beautiful light displays at Honor

Everyone aged 55 and up is wel-

the way back in from Muskogee,

come to join us for our monthly

we will also drive through the

Tweenagers meeting & luncheon,

fascinating Christmas light displays

taking place on Thursday, Novem-

at Rhema Bible College, in Broken

ber 12, from 10:30 am to 1 pm,

Arrow. We will arrive back at the

in the CLC. Our program will be

church at approximately 9 pm.

presented by Ginger Ingram Brown,

Registration forms will be available

from Wichita Falls, Texas. Ginger,

at the south welcome desk in late

along with her puppet helpers, will

October. Just complete a form and

be speaking on the topic of surviv-

slip it, with your payment, into the

ing grief through the holidays. You

registration slot at the desk. The

don’t want to miss this program,

tour bus only seats 56 folks, so get

and don’t forget to invite your

your registration form and payment

friends! Call the main office at

in TODAY!

Heights Park. If time allows on

492-1771 to make your reservations

BY NOON, Monday, November 9. If, ASBURY TIDINGS 27

Widowed Persons Christmas Luncheon

$5 for adults, and children 10 and

at ChristmasShop@asmtulsa.com,

under eat FREE!

as soon as possible, and begin

Saturday, December 12, 1 – 3 pm, CLC. Cost is $10. Come and cel-

praying for this inspired effort to

ebrate the joyous season by bring-

Singles Annual Christmas Shop Project

ing a widowed friend to our annual

Did you know there are ap-

Christmas luncheon! You will

proximately 175 single parents at

enjoy an amazing meal prepared

Asbury, with 350 children to raise,

by our church hostesses, Virginia

and so many more just outside the

Wednesday night Bible Study is

and Susan, as well as experience

doors of our church? During the

the place to be from 6:30-8 pm on

the beautiful music of the season.

Christmas season, it becomes more

Wednesday nights beginning Sept

There are other surprises, too, that

difficult for those families to make

10. Come to the Student Café and

will delight and encourage you

ends meet, and many children do

hang out, have fun and study what

during this holy season of Love.

not get to experience the joy of

God’s words has for us.

Tickets may be purchased on

selecting and purchasing gifts for

Sunday, November 22 in the CLC

others. Through the Asbury Singles

7th, 8th & 9th Grade Breakaway

Gallery, and on Sunday, December

Ministry Christmas Shop, we

Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am

6 in the north lobby. Or, you may

hope to offer some relief from that

in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t

call JeriAnn Robinson to make

pressure. On Saturday, December 5,

your normal Sunday school. Come

arrangements for the purchase.

kindergarten children through fifth

join us for worship, fun and games,

The deadline to purchase tickets is

graders coming from a single-par-

interactive talk/lesson, and some-

Monday, December 7.

ent home will have the opportunity,

times free candy and gift cards.

singles

bring the love of Christ to “the least of these.”

students 7th, 8th & 9th Bible Study

for just $5 each, to select gifts for their parents, grandparents and

7th, 8th & 9th Small Groups

Divorce Recovery

siblings (Hardship scholarships

Small Groups have begun! Being a

Tuesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm 1335.

available upon request). The Christ-

part of a small group is awesome.

For those suffering from the early,

mas Shop will be open to children

It’s a great place to grow your

highly emotional stages of divorce

of Asbury families, Grove Elemen-

relationship with Jesus, have fun

and separation trauma. Childcare

tary School, Lindbergh Elementary

hanging out with guys/girls your

available.

School, Walt Whitman Elementary

own age. A Small Group is made up

School, Jenks East Elementary

of same gender and the same grade

Divorce Rebuilding

School, and Youth at Heart. Indi-

PLUS two incredible adults that

Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm, Rm 1335. For

viduals and Asbury communities

want to hang out with you. 7th and

those ready to rebuild their lives

are being asked to assist by provid-

8th Grade Small Groups all meet

after separation or divorce. Child-

ing small gifts valued at no more

in the Student Ministries Area this

care available.

than $5 each, or financial donations

year. 9th Grade groups are meeting

to help with purchases and refresh-

in homes. Yes you can be in a 7th

Singles Fall Luncheon

ments. Un-wrapped gifts may be

grade small group and not be a

Sunday, November 22, 12:15

dropped off at the south welcome

part of Confirmation! If you haven’t

– 1:30 pm. Come be a part of this

desk. In addition to the purchase

signed up yet, you can do that on

luncheon designed for singles of

of gifts or financial contributions,

Sunday mornings or just come to

all ages, with plenty of good food

volunteers are needed to assist

the church on Sunday nights, 7th

and great fellowship! The catered

with set-up and clean-up, greeting,

grade 4:30-6 pm; 8th Grade 5-6:30

luncheon will consist of a delicious

registration, hospitality, wrapping

pm; 9th grade times vary depend-

entree and salad, with homemade

gifts—the list goes on and on! To

ing on the small group. For more

bread and dessert. The cost is just

offer your services, e-mail Michele

info. contact Mark or Marsha.

28 ASBURY TIDINGS

Student Ministry Parenting Teens Together

started around 6:30 pm and wrap

Seetin, and stop by some Monday

up around 8:30ish. Plan on hanging

and check us out!

This is simply a Parent Support

out afterwards for pizza.

Group of parents who come together to share experiences and gain

10th-12th Grade Small Groups

UMW November Luncheon & Program

strength, hope and new ideas from

Get Connected—Are you looking

Thursday, November 5, 11:30 am –

each other. We are not profession-

for a way to get more connected?

1:30 pm, CLC. Attention ladies! The

als, but strive with God’s wisdom to

Are you looking for a place to grow

program planned for November’s

love, care, and support one another

in your walk with Jesus? Then be-

luncheon will be a presentation by

through all struggles of life. If you

ing a part of a small group is where

Tulsa artist Rosalind Cook, entitled

or your teen is struggling, please

you need to be. If you are already

“Hands of a Potter.” A delicious

take this opportunity to get support,

in a small group, don’t forget to re-

luncheon prepared by our church

we meet upstairs in the Venue

sign up for your group. Our small

hostesses, Virginia & Susan, will be

every Tuesday from 7:30-8:30 pm,

groups meet every Sunday night,

provided for just $7 per person.

attend whichever works better for

times vary. Some of the groups

Our scripture emphasis for this

you. Call Marsha Baker for more

meet in homes and others meet at

month comes from Isaiah 64:8:

info 392-1157.

the church. Call Todd @ 392-1154 or

“Yet, O Lord, you are our Father.

Amy @ 392-1156 to get more info.

We are the clay, you are the potter;

Life Hurts God Heals

Small groups will not meet on Sept

we are the work of your hand.”

Life Hurts God Heals is created

20.

Car Care Workday

specifically for teenagers who have

Saturday, November 21. Car Care

their lives- divorce, bad breakups,

7th-12th Grade Metro Worship @ Venue68

sexuality issues, disappointment,

Come join youth from all over the

workday provided for Asbury’s

rejection, alcohol, etc. For most

city in a night to just worship Jesus.

widows and single moms, through

teenagers, life hurts, but the good

We meet the first Wednesday night

our men’s ministry. While the

news is God heals. Groups start

of every month from 7 – 8:30ish.

ladies wait in the comfort of the

experienced some type of pain in

September 2, 6-8:15pm every

Saturday is an every-other-month

café, volunteers check tires, belts,

Wednesday night, contact us

women

anytime or come by the Student

Women of the Word

also vacuum and wash the vehicles,

Ministry area and sign up. Parents if

Wednesdays from 10-11 am in

and then update owners on what’s

this is something that grabs at your

Rm 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson,

running smoothly and what needs

heart to help lead we need you,

teacher.

professional attention. This free

fluids, filters and batteries. They

service gives our men the oppor-

please call Marsha 392-1157!

Crafty Ladies Fellowship

tunity to put their faith in to action

AWAH Girls Slumber Party

Mondays, 9:30 am - 2 pm, Rm 2820.

through loving and serving those

AWAh Girls Slumber Party, Novem-

Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and

in need. No reservations required;

ber 13-14 @ Venue68. See Amy of

fellowshipping at the same time,

just get your vehicle in line between

Marsha for details.

this activity is for you! We gather

9:00 and 11:30!

on Monday mornings to work on 10th, 11th & 12th Breakaway

our own individual arts and crafts,

Every Wednesday night we come

stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch,

together for a time of connection

and continue on through until 2 pm.

and worship. Our desire is to

We have a wonderful time together,

explore who God really is and how

and would love to have you join us!

our lives matter to Him. We get

For more information, contact Betty ASBURY TIDINGS 29

worship • 8 am, Communion Service: Mason Chapel. Traditional service with music led by Hart Morris. Communion is served and Dr. Harrison

Service of Lessons and Carols Sunday, November 29, 6 pm, Sanctuary. We will celebrate the First Sunday of Advent with a Service of Lessons and Carols on November

preaches.

29 at 6 pm in the Sanctuary. The

• 9:15 am, Contemporary Praise

Chancel Choir, Perpetual Light, the

& Worship: Sanctuary. Contemporary music led by Mark Bennett and team, time of prayer and the message will all carry a prevailing theme for the morning. Dr. Harrison preaches.

New Covenant Orchestra, the Celebration Ringers, One Voice, the Young Musicians and our pastors will lead us in scripture and carols as we prepare our hearts for the season of Advent. Join us to enjoy the sounds of the season.

• 9:15 am, Open House Worship: Community Life Center. A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship led by Dub Ambrose and team. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor.

• 11 am, Traditional Service:

Thank You!

Sanctuary. The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles offer a variety of styles of music led by Hart Morris. Dr. Tom Harrison preaches.

• 11 am, Modern Service: Venue68.

Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team. Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered. Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast.

• 6:30 pm, Modern Service: Venue68. Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by the Ben Kilgore and team. Rev. Spencer Smith preaches.

30 ASBURY TIDINGS

Thank you to all who contributed to the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk. The Walk was another big success this year, thanks to all who walked and donated. Our Asbury Team, Kathy’s Friends, raised about $4,000 this year.

Thanks for your help in fighting this disease.

- Victoria Williamson, Team Captain

asbury

new members

Susan Beach

Kellie & Abigail Austin

Rob Buker

Carl & A.J. Carnahan

Cheryl Cobb

Ryan & Joy Hulver, Julia & Olivia

Valerie & Ryleigh Brewer

Mike & Perri Catey, Alex & April

Collin & Mellisa Cole

John & Christine Hutsell

ASBURY TIDINGS 31

welcome to asbury

we’re glad you’re here

Brett & Sohala Jones Bryce & Aydan

Hannah Kramer

Philip & Janice Lakin

Janis McCartney

Matt & Kristie Miller Brooks & Maddox

Charla Montaque

32 ASBURY TIDINGS

Robert & Emily Killam

Paul Nowicki

Victor Porter Quinton & Tyreia

asbury

new members

Jon & Erika Reeves, Liam & Laura

Steve & Lana Sadler, Clifton & Kate

Travis & Kristin Webb

Rush & Tricia Roberts Elizabeth & Victoria

James & Molly Scott

Jay & Jenn Zeigler

asbury exploration classes 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: November 1 • December 6 Classes are from 12:15 pm - 2 pm Call 392-1191 to reserve your place • Childcare is available and lunch is provided ASBURY TIDINGS 33

asbury family room in celebration of marriage 60 years Otis & Neil Osborn November 12, 1949

55 years Howard & Joanne Ledbetter • November 17, 1954 Ron & Sue Shook • November 25, 1954

30 years Rod & Linda Sayler • October 6, 1979

20 years

50 years Jim & Susie Barrett • November 21, 1959

45 years Larry & Jackie Smith • October 11, 1964

25 years Brad & Polly Richison • July 27, 1984

Bill & Kelly Dudney • August 19, 1989

5 years

Brad & Tracy Rinehart • June 24, 1989

David & Carol Grisham • October 9, 2004

• Robert Neely & Kori Weidman, married August 22 • Jeremy Beguin & Brooke Eidson, married August 29 • Luke Higgins & Anne Kimbrough, married August 29 • Ian Zacher & Amy Pike, married August 29 • Scott Edwards & Chresta Gann, married September 26

we celebrate • Aniston Eileen Brown, daughter of Steven & Kristen Brown, born July 15 • Max Robert Lawson, son of Michael & Joanna Lawson, born September 4 • Hunter Hughes, son of Mike & Erica Hughes, born September 15 • Penelope Blair Doerr, daughter of Leonard & Charla Doerr, born September 24

we remember • June Cooley, died August 13 • Jack Givens, husband of Phyllis, died August 31 • Scott S. Taylor, son of Jean Reidel, died September 2 • Dale Nowlin, husband of Lois, died September 3 • Georgia Erwin, mother of Bob (Mary) Flanagan, died September 19 • Ken Wilkerson, father of Rick (Kelly) Wilkerson, died September 22 34 ASBURY TIDINGS

Glorify God‌ Make Disciples

Youth at Heart Tutoring