Asbury Tidings - Leading - More Than a Citizen, a Servant

- Not a Better Marriage, a Fantastic Marriage

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Asbury

TIDINGS JULY 2010

n July, we will conclude one sermon Ianother series on “Leadership,” and begin on “Sync.” July 4th is on a

form of the word “synchronized.”When a band member is “in sync” with the other members, the music sounds great. When a baseball player is “in sync” with the game, there’s a natural flow and rhythm that creates optimal performance. When a marriage is “in sync,” the partners have agreement and accord. Likewise, when we are “in sync” with God, then we are in harmony with Him.

Sunday this year. As such, we are planning an “all church” worship service with only two Sunday morning services that day. We will have a definite patriotic theme. The music and message will reflect on our nation’s history, while giving thanks for those who had the vision to try something completely new in world history.

In Genesis, God created us to live in harmony with Him, with others, with our environment, and even with ourselves. When sin entered the world things became out of sync. The relationship between God and humanity was disturbed. The original pair no lonOur government was formed so that one person could ger could be authentic and genuine. One son killed not be a king or an emperor. That George Washington re- another. Nature was disturbed. fused to become another “King George” is quite remarkable. He easily could have accepted that role. His refusal Jesus came to bring order back into chaos. He came to do so opened us up to a system of government that de- to explain and to illustrate to us what it means to be manded accountability and dependence from leaders who in relationship with God. We will spend four weeks were, for the most part, elected officials. History repeats looking at a particular text in John that deals with this itself and, “If we don’t know our history, we are bound to overall concept. John 17 is the chapter where Jesus repeat it.” We want to give thanks for our history and for prays for His followers. Note his prayer: those with the vision for it. We also want to pray that we will be faithful on our watch to preserve and pass along 1. we will glorify God, those traditions that create a system of government “with 2. we will persevere in our faith, liberty and justice for all.”

3. we will live holy lives, 4. and that we will be in unity with one another.

“SYNC” is not an advertising campaign for us to help people get connected to an audio, directive system for As we develop this concept, I trust you’ll be in the their cars. Rather, to be “in sync” with someone speaks scriptures daily as we build and hold on to our faith of being in harmony with them. If someone is “out of and grow together in Christ’s love. sync,” then they are not going to operate at peak performance. The word, “sync” is actually an abbreviated Dr. Tom Harrison, Sr. Pastor

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Thoughts About Jesus The Grandeur of God Living Out the Mission Arming the Job Seekers More Than a Citizen When You Smile Hats that Heal

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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

When God Speaks Surrendering to His Call Opportunities

Managing Editor Tara Lynn Thompson tara@taralynnthompson.com Graphic Designer Jonathan Van Risseghem vanriss.com Photographer Don Kreutzweiser donsimages.com Guest Contributors: Dwight Yoder, John C. Westervelt, Mark Springer, Teresa Springer, Dick Read, Russ Knight, Tiffany Smith, Kellie Austin, Sue Fisher, Kim Beair, Kara Beair Page 2

by Dwight Yoder, Executive Director

D

evelopment

That is a word heard frequently from Tom Harrison our senior pastor. It is a central theme in his thinking about the ministries of Asbury.

You will hear him speak even more about this in the future. Development is going to increasingly guide our strategies, what Asbury does and how we do it in our various ministries. Given such importance, I want to look at how the idea of development has shaped Asbury up to this point, and how it will influence us in the future. This will help define what development means in our context.

Let’s begin with some history. Very shortly after Tom arrived at Asbury in 1993, he cast a vision for the development of Asbury. It was encapsulated in three key words that he has emphasized repeatedly ever since: Belong, Believe, Become. Later, these concepts became the “vision” portion of our MVO (Mission Vision Objectives)*. Our eight “Objectives” provided more specific definition of what it means to develop into a disciple of Christ. Asbury is steadily improving the development of our ministries to help our members achieve the MVO in their lives.

Tom’s interest in development has always extended beyond the walls of Asbury, just as was true of our senior pastor emeritus Bill Mason. A strong personal interest of his is the development of the local church in America. Tom understood that much damage has been done to local churches because of poor theological education of pastors. He sometimes quotes Maxie Dunnam, “As goes the seminary, so goes the pastor, as goes the pastor, so goes the local congregation, as goes the local congregation, so goes the entire church.” Thus he began a lifetime effort to encourage and enable new pastors to attend seminaries where they could get a solid, orthodox education. In particular, he has supported Asbury Theological Seminary.

Within Asbury,Tom has a comparable focus toward the family. From his first days at Asbury he has said, “Kids come first.” Asbury has invested heavily in our ministries directed at the spiritual development of children and students. We have great programs that are having huge impact on families. Asbury also has a very effective ministry directed at the development of strong marriages beginning at the time of engagement.

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For every age, young and old, Tom has a strong desire to develop leaders. By this he means developing people so they have the willingness and capacity to influence others for Christ. For some, that means influencing a few people they are close to. For others, it may mean influencing dozens or hundreds. We are currently working through some ideas that Tom and the associate pastors have for a more comprehensive leadership/discipleship development program. I will report more on that in the future.

Out of our long-range planning process, which some of you participated in, came a strong message that our congregation desires a greatly expanded local outreach ministry. As we were studying what this expansion might look like, Tom read “When Helping Hurts.” This book clearly connected Tom’s development emphasis with what this looks like for missions and ministry outside the walls of the church. Not only is this shaping the expansion of local outreach but is also serving as the basis to reevaluate all missions and outreach activity in which Asbury is engaged.

Development includes both learning and doing.

They must be combined and balanced. Learning a great deal about the Bible without applying that knowledge in service to others is not achieving our MVO. On the other hand, service and doing good for others without appropriate biblical knowledge and Christian emphasis will not distinguish us from nonChristian social organizations.

Asbury is incredibly blessed with resources and opportunities and, most of all, our engaged members.

We are at an exciting time as we consider how to expand and redesign some of our ministries. For everyone who contributes with their time and their money, we are thankful. Our hope and prayer is that increasing numbers of our members will engage in the development of themselves and others as disciples and to combine this with participation in mission and ministry to others. *If you are not familiar with Asbury’s MVO please visit www.asburytulsa.org/about/what-we-believe.html.

THOUGHTS A

By John C. Westervelt

Tom’s Sermons for July are based on John 17. Beginning with verse 20, Jesus prays for you and me. I am pleased that He cares so much for us.

To fill my mind with good thoughts of Jesus before going to sleep, I read a page from the Gospels while propped up in bed against a TV floor pillow left over from my son’s boyhood.

A predominate thought I have about Jesus is that He is winsome. I think, “How else could He have approached James, John, Peter, and Andrew, saying ‘Leave your nets and follow Me,’ and have these tough-minded fishermen walk away from their chosen profession?”

The Gospel stories let me see that Jesus is compassionate, loving, and caring. I want to be His friend to enjoy His love.

About the time I think Jesus is just about tender love, I read about His confronting the Pharisees. Just like my high school friends who were debaters, Jesus always wins with skillful arguments.

Jesus liked a party. While enjoying a wedding at Cana, His mother asked Him to replenish the wine.

Mary, knowing her birth son was also God’s Son, believed Jesus could perform a miracle of making wine from water, and He did.

One of Jesus’ last acts on earth was to have a party for His disciples. Jesus had died on the cross, risen on the third day, met with His disciples in a locked room, and finally hosted the party. In my imagination, I join Jesus’ party on the shore of the Sea of Galilee.

On the night before the party, Peter, Thomas, Andrew, and I boarded one boat, and James, John, Nathanael, and another disciple pushed off in the other.

The disciples were all sad. I wondered if Peter had decided they should go fishing to get their minds off their troubles. Peter definitely was the leader.

Peter stood in the front of the boat looking back at the shoreline to his left and to his right, followed by a heavenward glance at Polaris. He seemed to be using landmarks and the North Star to locate the spot on the open water where they had found fish before. After awhile he called out to James and John,“Let’s try it here.”

Immediately, the nets were lowered, and the men took up their oars. Most were stripped to the waist even though the night air was cold. The rowing and pulling in of the net flowed smoothly. When we found no fish in the net, we let it down again, and the sequence was patiently repeated.

Eventually, Andrew handed me the net, and since I had watched every move he had made, I was a ready hand. After several hours, I was cold, tired, and hungry.

I could not recall having done such strenuous work in a long time. We were all getting discouraged when our nets kept coming up empty. Peter was ready to quit, but Andrew convinced him to try a few more times.

Then at the first sign of dawn, Peter yelled across to James and John, “Let’s take her in boys!”

As we approached land, we could see smoke curling straight up from a campfire on the shore about a quarter of a mile away. Beside the fire was the figure of a man.

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ABOUT JESUS As we closed the distance, the man on the shore called out, “Did you catch any fish?”

Peter spoke for all of us,“Nothing for this night’s effort.”

Then came back the response, “Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you’ll get plenty of them.”

We all looked at each other, then Thomas stated the question we were all asking, “Why throw the net here? You can’t catch fish in the shallows.”

Then Andrew, without a word, threw the net over the right-hand side of the boat. Soon it was overflowing with fish, and we all strained to pull the net into the boat, but we were not able to. John, now recognizing the man, said, “Peter, it is our Lord.”

Without another thought, Peter wrapped his outer garment around his waist and threw himself into the sea. I turned to Andrew to say, “Peter certainly has a rambunctious love for Jesus.”

Jesus turned to us and said,“Come and have breakfast.”

Jesus, carrying bread, hot fish, and wine walked towards me. His servant attitude made me think of Him as a friend rather than a Messiah.

Then He read my thoughts and looking directly at me, He said, “John, I know you must be famished after a night of fishing. Take this bread and fish and wine to nourish your body.”

I shall never forget those eyes that looked into mine with such a caring spirit. As I accepted the food, I noticed that in the center of each of His calloused hands was a recent wound.

Then Jesus served Andrew, and moved on to another. As Jesus turned away, I leaned toward Andrew and said, “You told me Jesus was the Messiah. Why would a Messiah serve me?”

“More than a Messiah, He is a servant. That is the way He leads. He said for us to learn from His example.”

The rest of us came to shore in the boat dragging the net full of fish. By now, even Thomas was convinced that the man was Jesus. When we reached the shore, Peter helped us draw the net to land. I could see some fish on a fire of coals. Jesus said, “Bring some of the fish you have caught.”

Immediately, Peter spoke directly to each disciple assigning tasks for the preparation of the fish.

While Thomas was emptying the net, he counted one 153 fish and remarked with amazement that he could not even find one tear in the net. It wasn’t long before the fish had been cooked over Jesus’ fire.

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More stories at www.jwestervelt.com

G

Grandeur the

of

od

~ a journey to the Grand Canyon ~

By Mark and Teresa Springer

Long,

long ago, the Western United States. God reached down and drew a line in there was a small stream aimlessly traveling across the ground in

the dust for the water to follow. After a day or two, He looked down and saw that the small stream had cut a 277 mile path into the rock and sand almost a mile deep in places. Each year almost five million people stand on the edge of the finger tracing of God that we call the Grand Canyon and marvel at the beauty of the earth, many failing to see the hand of God. In September 2005, we decided to see the Grand Canyon, not just from the top, but also from the Canyon floor. We had our tent, bedrolls, water and food in our backpacks. Fortunately, on the morning of our hike we were able to get a cabin at the Phantom Ranch, the only facility at the bottom of the Canyon with cabins, dorms and hot meals served in the dining hall. We stored the camping equipment in the trunk and we started our decent, a few hours later than planned but several pounds lighter.

The path we chose for our descent was the South Kaibab Trail, the shortest but steepest trail on the South Rim. As we descended into the Canyon it became bigger and more beautiful than we imagined. We had little shade after 10 am, and by the time we reached the bottom of the Canyon, the temperature was over 105 (but as they always say in Arizona – it’s a dry heat). There we met a few other hikers on the way down and, of course, the people riding mules. (Following a mule team is another story.)

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A

bout five miles down we could see the beautiful greenish blue Colorado River. It looked so cool and inviting, but we still had two hours to go. After about seven hours of hiking, we dumped our packs at the Phantom Ranch and walked a mile back to the Colorado River. We stood in the 55-degree water to cool our joints and muscles, then back to the cabin, showered and ate the best stew, salad, and dessert ever. At least that is what it seemed like.

“There is no way you could not believe and feel close to God after experiencing the awesome wonder of the Grand Canyon.”

After our feast, we relaxed by the stream flowing through the ranch. As the darkness fell around us, we looked up from the bottom of the Canyon and could see more stars than imaginable. It was such a powerful feeling. We were really aware of how big God is and how small and fragile we are. His universe was so full and beautiful. Wow…there are no words to describe it! See Psalms 8 and 19:1-6 Of course, we were sore and hurting. And, the only way out of the Canyon was to hike out and up! So, the next day we got an early start going up the Bright Angel Trail, a nine-mile climb. It was different terrain with switchbacks that were steep and slow going. It seemed like we would never get to the top. Oh, but how exciting it is to actually look up to see the rim.

After arriving back home, we had many stories to share about the hike, the heat, helping others along the trail and the great ice cream at the South Rim. We shared stories of extreme heat, sore muscles and joints, and times of frustration as we could see the top only to go around a bend and see a much longer trail than hoped.

Teresa shared our adventure with Dick Read, who said, “Next time you go, let us know.” But she told him, “It’s hard, hot and people die hiking in the Grand Canyon. What makes you think we are going back?”

But, it had been one of the most beautiful experiences of our lives. There is no way you could not believe and feel close to God after experiencing the awesome wonder of the Grand Canyon.

Three years later, we were back - along with the Read Family, our niece and a good friend. This time we hiked from the North Rim to the South Rim “Rim 2 Rim”, spending two nights at the Phantom Ranch. God’s creation provides an unimaginable peace and beauty that must be taken in with wonder. We were so in awe of it that we would stop quite often just to look around. God’s handy work was everywhere. Wow! Is the only word that describes it.

The Grand Canyon and a church are similar. Many people show up, look it over and leave. Been there, done that. Fewer people actually hike or walk into the canyon. Most go less than a mile and then turn around and go back up giving them only a small taste for the Grand Canyon.

There are others who commit to go all the way. To do the work, face the hardships, endure some pain, and become overwhelmed with God’s awesome beauty!

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Psalm 8:

O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!

Your glory is higher than the heavens.

You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.

When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers— the moon and the stars you set in place— what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?

Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor.

You gave them charge of everything you made, putting all things under their authority— the flocks and the herds and all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea, and everything that swims the ocean currents.

O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!

Psalm 19:

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.

Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known.

They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard.

Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world.

God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.

It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding.

It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.

The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end.

Nothing can hide from its heat.

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Living out the

MISSION

- a trip to Central Asia becomes a time to share the MVO

By Dick Read

As I write this article,

I have just returned from 12 days in Central Asia, time invested in Christian ministry with seven young adults from Asbury. Along with these six college students and our terrific team leader Matt Hester, we shared a variety of experiences with ‘in country’ Christian workers, as well as with the local citizens with whom those workers cross paths daily.

Whether with low income technical school students, psychiatric patients at the state-run hospital, orphans at the infant and children’s homes, English class students at the tuition-based language school, as well as sharing inspiring and emotional fellowship with a number of local ‘believers,’ we remained in a state of awestruck privilege of being the loving hands and feet of Jesus during our time together.

I have yet to find adequate words to describe the pleasure of serving alongside these Asbury young adults during our time in Central Asia. Without hesitation, these students engaged in every situation in which they were placed, willingly...even more, eagerly responding to every opportunity laid before them to represent Jesus with compassion, justice and affection.

During the 16 hours in the airplanes homeward bound, I was given plenty of time to reminisce on our experiences together. For 12 days, all day every day, I was able to live smack dab in the midst of Christian community, fellowshipping together with primary focus on being ambassadors for Jesus in a land that does not know Him as Savior and Lord.

As I think about those days together, I recall that Asbury’s Mission, Vision and Objectives (MVO) were verymuch a part of our life together: We devoted to Glorifying God in making disciples for Jesus. Belonging to the family of God, believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, we set out to be servants of Christ together in a far-away land where we were very much strangers who were welcomed with open arms of hospitality. I was amazed in the intensity of experiencing our church’s discipleship objectives:

Every member confessing Jesus Christ as Lord.

Jesus was the very reason we were investing in this time together in Central Asia. Because of the ways which Jesus has transformed each of our lives, it was our desire to represent Jesus in a land and culture that recognizes Him as a great prophet, but certainly not as Savior and King.

Every member living to love, seek and save the lost through Christ.

This Central Asian country is not one of brilliant spiritual light – we would recognize it as a land of spiritual darkness, devoid of the transformational Gospel of Jesus. And so, for these brief days ‘in country,’ we were determined to come alongside of those we encountered with the love of Jesus.Whether partnering with full-time Christian workers, encouraging the few ‘believers’ in fellowship or simply hanging out with local students, we were focused on being lovers and seekers of those who don’t yet know Jesus and, even if for but a few brief moments, bearing that Light.

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Every member worshipping God, corporately and privately. Our times of worship together were so sweet! While we didn’t have the organ, piano or skilled bands of Asbury leading us in our worship times, we were awed with the privilege of relatively hushed, yet passionate, opportunities to sing praise and glory to God and fervently intercede for the people of this country. Like Daniel praying for the Babylonians, we often had a sense that we were among the very few who were, at that moment, worshipping in intercession for the people of this land to come to Jesus.

Every member participating in small group Christian community.

Wow, what community the eight of us shared! At the same time, we were enfolded into the various small groups of Christian community in the city where we served. Standing together before the Lord, in willingness to be used by the Lord, for the Lord and with the Lord in whatever ways God placed before us. To share life in Christian community is such a honor! King David proclaimed it like this: Behold how good and pleasant it is when brethren dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)

Every member developing a Biblical worldview by learning and applying God’s Word. Reading and discussing Scripture with believers in this country in which

less than two percent are followers of Jesus – now that’s a context different from our own! Sitting in an Asbury classroom or someone’s Tulsa home, we openly and casually speak of God’s work around us and anticipate the relevance of Scripture in our daily lives. In this Central Asian country, the believers sacredly cherish times spent with fellow Christians pouring over the pages of the Bible.They take such care of their time in Scripture, gleaning all they can in those moments and anticipating how God will both speak to them and work in them. May I have such a biblical worldview.

Every member bringing the tithe in loving obedience of God’s gracious provision. Each of our young team members had to raise their own support to share in this trip to Central Asia. It was because of the tithing of believers to the storehouse of Asbury and the generous additional support of family and friends that we were able to value this week of ministry together.

Every member devoted to prayer.

Pray, we did! Daily we went to the Father with our dreams and desires for the people of this country to know Jesus. And because we were meeting new people every day, we were able to pray for many people by name, “Jesus, draw Osman to yourself.” “Lord, may Sabina know of your love in her life.” As followers of Jesus, we believe in the influence of prayer and we will continue to pray for our new friends, that they would soon become friends, too, with our Jesus.

Every member discovering and using spiritual gifts for ministry and mission. Each person on our team brought with them their own unique gifts, skills and personality. It was

amazing to see how the Lord used each one in a different way.While one focused on encouraging the Christian workers, another was spending time with someone who was not even a ‘believer.’ One team member was organizing the next event, while another as investing time in prayer and intercession. Just like Paul wrote: Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits. All kinds of things are handed out by the Spirit, and to all kinds of people! (1 Corinthians 12:6) It’s been over ten years since the Lord first unfolded to our Asbury pastors what is now known as our MVO – Asbury’s Mission,Vision and Objectives.While having the privilege of living out this MVO with you these many years, I am awestruck that the Lord let me experience again such intensity of MVO-living with fellow Asburians in a land far from home, a land and people we are asking the Lord to include in His eternal Kingdom.

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ARMING THE JOB SEEKERS

By Russ Knight

G

od doesn’t always let us know why we go through trials. I believe I got my answer in part because someone risked reaching out.

Stepping off a plane at DFW, my blackberry buzzed with an email inviting me to a mandatory all managers meeting/call at 8 am the next morning.

We lost a major client. Every department would have cuts. This was October of 2007 and my first layoff, which began a six month job search where I made lots of mistakes.

The next job lasted only four months before that company decided the product they hired me to sell wasn’t ready for market. Now that’s two layoffs in ten months.

My confidence was shot, and I started to question what I had to offer a prospective employer. After a stint with a startup that was an excuse to avoid the search, I walked away in April 2009 and restarted my job search.

Throughout this, I cried out to God asking, ‘Why are you putting me through this?’

Gip Gibson, the president of Tulsa National Bank, risked inviting me to attend a meeting at FUMC to a new ministry for job seekers. “What’s the point of networking with a bunch of unemployed people? I know what I’m doing.” That’s what I thought. Then I attended the weekly lunch meeting where I found encouragement, contacts and practical support to help me in my job search. Some weeks despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get an interview, but knowing I had a place to go where I would be encouraged and could maybe even help others was a highlight of the week.

In July 2009, I was hired by NorthStar Technologies to sell debt collection services primarily to banks. It was God’s perfect timing. I was blessed by God and by several others who took extra time to help by meeting with me, thoughtfully passing me along to other people, and giving me the time of day, as it were.

Because I am blessed, I seek each day to pass that blessing on to others. Bill Johnson of Asbury has been a key part of the leadership team at FUMC from the beginning, so I approached him about offering something different but complimentary and

in concert with what was happening at First. Barbara Wright has led a quarterly speaker event and a one-on-one resume help ministry for years. We met with staff at Asbury, got an immediate green light and had our first monthly event in October 2009.

OJT (Overcoming Job Transitions) meets monthly on the third Tuesday from 6:30 to 9 pm in the Family Room, and we branch out from there for hands on breakout sessions. We offer practical help - something for nearly everyone on a job search no matter where they are in the process.

These days, everyone knows someone on a job search. Chances are, you don’t have a job to fill to hire anyone. You don’t have any experience helping job seekers. When you get calls from job seekers, you refer them to HR or don’t call them back at all.

here are FIVE things you can do to help people you know on a JOB SEARCH

1. MEET WITH THEM.

Give them 20 minutes in your office. Let them tell their story (briefly), scratch your head and think about who you know that might be able to use someone with their skill set or help them connect to someone who might.

Give them names and contact information. Make introductions.

2. INVITE THEM TO OJT. Bring them if you must,

but get them to Asbury. We can help. They don’t have to be a member of Asbury or a member of anything. They just have to have a sincere willingness to get a job and some qualification to be hired.

We need more job seekers!

3. SEND ME JOB LEADS.

We’ll get the word out.

4. DO YOU KNOW

of another church in Oklahoma (or elsewhere) that wants to start something but doesn’t know how? We want to encourage others to replicate this ministry. Please let me know!

5. PRAY.

If that is your gift, please pray for job seekers. Pray for this ministry. My gift is service, Bill’s is flexing and making things happen…like a ligament. The body of Christ has many parts (have you read that anywhere?) but is one body that needs all those parts – including pray-ers.

Outreach is always a risk. Will you take that risk with people you know?

To contact Russ Knight: OJTJobs@gmail.com 640-6148 - cell

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More Than A Citizen

A SERVANT

By Pastor Tiffany Smith On September 11, 2001, I was in my college cafeteria. I remember we had a soccer match that afternoon and the TV was on. Something had occurred, but I was use to the bad news of news. I didn’t pay any attention to the plane that ran into the building or think it was anything but a simple accident and plane malfunction.

I had no way of preparing for the news that awaited at the end of the day. Initially I thought of my new friend in Philadelphia who I had just met that summer on a sports mission trip. I called to see how she was doing.

As a citizen of this country, we also “owe allegiance”, or devotion, to the government so we can receive “protection from it”. As Christians, are we not suppose to give our devotion and our loyalty to our Lord Christ Jesus? Are we not supposed to be faithful to our Lord?

Jesus refers to Himself often as the bridegroom and the church as His bride. In a marriage relationship, remaining faithful to one another is vital.

When we have faith in one another, we trust one another. We can rest knowing we will not be disappointed in giving him allegiance.

Afterward, as our entire country faced the realization of what had happened and how we must respond, the National Guard Unit in Alva, my hometown, was called up. I knew 25-plus men – from grade school friends to college chums – who were called to active duty. They left for war and I stayed home, away from the fight, away from the pain, away from the reality of war. There was even the possibility that our soccer coach, who was in the military at the time, would be called up, as well. I had known coach since little league soccer back in the day.

Lastly, the statement “a civilian as distinguished from a specialized servant of the state” which a civilian is “one not on active duty in a military, police, or fire-fighting force.”

That made it real. I realized I wasn’t just a citizen.

I was more. God had called me to be more. He had called me to be a servant.

I never thought of it before. But she was right.

I would never be the same again. For the 84 days of training in 2008, four weeks this summer, I will be on active duty with the military, I will not be a citizen. I will not be Pastor Tiffany. I will be Chaplain Candidate Smith for the US Navy and Marine Corp.

I will be learning from other Chaplains how to care for our Marines and Sailors.

I have a 1965 Webster Dictionary, a book worn with age and love and thirst for knowledge. In it, bound within it’s listings of adjectives and adverbs and the occasional conjunction, is where I found the definition of “citizen”, 1: an inhabitant of a city or town; esp: one entitled to the rights and privileges of a freeman 2a: a member of a state 2b: a native or naturalized person who owes allegiance to a government and is entitled to reciprocal protection from it 3: a civilian as distinguished from a specialized servant of the state”3 As citizens of this country, we have the “rights and privileges of a freeman”. But is there really anything for free? In order to obtain something for free, someone else, if not ourselves, pay the price. The men and women who put their lives at risk every day pay the price. That is why we are safe.

As Christians we are free, but not without the price Jesus Christ paid at Calvary over 2000 years ago.

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This statement comes home to me. My roommate, back in graduate school, who just so happens to not be a citizen of the US, said something to me when I was filling out the paper work for the military. She said that when I signed those papers that I would no longer be a citizen.

As a citizen relates to my Christian faith, I am called not only to be a citizen but to be a specialized servant for Christ. My allegiance is to my one and only God, my Lord Christ Jesus. The life that I have graciously been given by Christ is not a life to be lived for myself, but to be lived for something much larger and greater than myself.

In high school, I remember seeing a couple of the students up on stage who had signed up for the National Guard. It affected me. One particular was a girl that was not only a teammate of mine in high school with several different sports, but also was a teammate of mine when we both were in gymnastics in grade school. On top of that, a couple of years earlier in 1997 was when the movie G.I. Jane

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came out. It was then I had the idea that I wanted to serve, too. I wanted to be more, not just a good citizen but one who does something about it, I wanted to make a difference. Both my grandfathers served in WWII. One in particular served on the front lines as a Staff Seargant and was wounded in battle. The only time he ever spoke of it was when I asked where he got that large scar on his upper left shoulder. All he said was “I was shot back in the war.”

He has been gone now for 18 years, and I wish that I could talk to him more about the war. I was only 10 at the time of his death and didn’t think to ask much more than what I did. To walk in the boots, know dedication, know what my freedom has cost so many. I wanted a way to give back to my country that I will never be able to thank enough.

For many years it was just a thought and an idea. I would even fill out the post cards you see in magazines. But I never sent them in, not until years later.

The same is true for my God. I serve my all to Christ because I will never be able to thank Him enough for what He did for me on that cross, but I can live for Him and in Him. I can stand proud and say that He is the reason I live and serve others.

CITIZEN – “1: an inhabitant of a city

or town; esp: one entitled to the rights and privileges of a freeman 2a: a member of a state 2b: a native or naturalized person who owes allegiance to a government and is entitled to reciprocal protection from it 3: a civilian as distinguished from a specialized servant of the state”1

CIVILIAN – “1: a specialist in Roman or modern civil law 2: one not on active duty in a military, police, or fire-fighting force”2

ALLEGIANCE:

“1a: the obligation of a feudal vassal to his liege lord 1b (1): the fidelity owed by a subject or citizen to his sovereign or government (2): the obligation of an alien to the government under which he resides 2: devotion or loyalty to a person, group, or cause syn see FIDELITY.”

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That thought since high school has never left me.

I’ve always wanted to serve my country. Initially, I considered going into the military after medical school, since being a doctor and helping people has been my focus since my youth.

But little did I know God had something far greater for me than I had for myself.

I even considered becoming a military doctor. I wanted to work on the Comfort and the Mercy Ship, both floating hospitals for the Navy. When disaster struck, I wanted to be the first called out to help.

When things started in Afghanistan, I began searching for mission opportunities to go over and help. I wasn’t sure what I would be doing, but I so badly wanted to go. Not long after additional troops were called over, that same yearning to help became more focused, more impassioned. I wanted to be with my military men and women, to serve and do whatever I could to help. That yearning only grows stronger every day.

My citizenship here on earth is not just to the city of Tulsa, nor to my hometown of Alva, or even only to my country. Ultimately, my citizenship is in heaven with my Lord Christ Jesus, to whom I give my full allegiance.

WHE \\\\

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EN YOU SMILE \\\\\\\\\\\ - single moms find support in new ministry

H

By Kellie Austin

ave you ever awakened in the middle of the night to a sick child needing medicine for a high fever and felt you had no one to call and could not go to the store? Can you remember the last time you went to buy groceries by yourself? What about reading a book or going to a movie that is not a cartoon? When was the last time you were able to go shopping alone and try on clothes without a needy child?

Chances are if you can relate to these questions, you are a single mom lacking a much needed support system. And if you are not a single mother, you probably know at least one that would benefit from an opportunity to walk with others through this challenging journey.

Asbury is starting a new ministry – Single Mother’s In the Lord’s Embrace (SMILE) - to strengthen, empower, and support single mothers.

Helping Asbury establish a single mothers’ ministry is very important to me. As of five years ago, everything in my life was as I planned. I finished college and graduate school, passed the CPA exam, started my career, got married, built a house, had a beautiful baby daughter, and was looking forward to having our next child.

Overnight my world fell apart after nine years of marriage. I found myself the newest member of the ‘single moms’ club where I never dreamed I would end up nor wanted to be.

I strongly believed I would never get divorced, that we would work through anything, but I learned there comes a point when I could not make someone love me and want to be with me. Moving forward, I struggled with the broken dream of my ‘family’ and having another child. I went from a two parent household to having my daughter 24/7 with full custody. My family lived in Louisiana, and I did not have a good support system.

Someone mentioned to me about Divorce Rebuilding at Asbury and it made all the difference in my life. There were people behind me in the healing process that made me realize I had progressed and was surviving. There were those ahead of me giving me hope that someday I would be healed, able to forgive and move on with my life.

Today, I still have close friends from attending the class.

Through this challenging journey as a single parent, I was tired, overwhelmed, had feelings of guilt for not spending enough time with my daughter due to working, and when I did see her I was busy with laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, arranging yard work (because I was not able to with a two-year-old), car maintenance, and the list goes on. I found being a single mom of a small child that if childcare was not available, I could not attend. It was easier to not go than to find a sitter and figure out how to pay for it.

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I also was not able to participate in my community bible study groups so I attended the Roadmap classes since childcare was available. Sadly, I could not bring myself to volunteer in the children’s ministry because Sunday morning was my ‘only’ break.

I was not one to ask for help. I am very independent.

I felt my friends had their own lives and were too busy for me to bother them. I learned that they were more than willing to give me a much needed break for a little while…to get my hair cut, buy groceries, or even take a nap. I just had to humble myself and ask.

Today, it is still a struggle and a challenge every day. I am tired and still overwhelmed often, but life is good.

My personal relationship with God would not have grown as close as it is now if I had not weathered (still

weathering) this storm. It became more apparent that being a single mom was God’s plan and His purpose, not mine.

I spend more time talking to God and relying on him for the strength, guidance, and peace that I so desperately need. I have met so many people through the last few years that I have developed a great support system.

I have learned to ask for help if I cannot do it myself, even though it may take me a while to get to that point.

Asbury is giving us an awesome opportunity to develop a much needed support system with SMILE. If you are a single mother, we look forward to serving you and giving you that much needed ‘break’. And if you know a single parent, please tell her there is a place for her to find the encouragement she needs because she is not alone.

To contact Kellie Austin for more info on SMILE: austin.kellie@ymail.com 693-0611.

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Hats that heal

By Sue Fisher I had no idea that five years ago when my husband, John, was diagnosed with cancer that I would begin a journey that would ultimately take the form of a new ministry.

I’ll admit that it took some time for the seed to grow, but God was the gardener and He would see to the harvest. I don’t know why I was surprised when God decided to collect His harvest because I have been praying for years for this very thing. God was answering my prayer to use me in a way that I could be of service to others.

After completing his surgery and radiation at the Cancer Treatment Center here in Tulsa, John became a volunteer at the hospital. Over the years he would share with me all that he had seen and learned from his involvement. One of the stories often repeated concerned the chemotherapy treatments that many patients received at the hospital.

John would tell me how these treatments would make the patient very cold, and he was always getting warm blankets to wrap around the individual.

It was even worse when the patient lost her hair, a common side effect of chemotherapy.

He said that the best solution seemed to be knitted hats that would keep the head warm. But they never had enough hats to fill the need. The few that they got were quickly picked up by chemo patients.

Not only would the hats keep the patient warm but would also help to cover the bare scalp with a more attractive appearance. The patients were particularly excited when a colorful and decorative hat arrived. It did wonders for moral and self-esteem and, in the process, contributed to a more successful treatment result.

Well, maybe I’m a slow learner but eventually I heard God say to me, “You can do this”. I heard Him tell me to knit a hat for a chemo patient.

I already knew how to knit. One of my first efforts was early in my married life when I knitted John a ski sweater big enough to fit an NFL linebacker. I don’t think he ever wore it.

So, I got a hat pattern off the internet and started my first hat. It was fun. I could sit in front of the television in the evening and relax by knitting. I was surprised by how fast I could make a hat and the design and color was all up to me.

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I made hats with flowers, or fuzzy yarn, or wild patterns. There was no limit in what I could dream up.

And then I thought…I bet other people would also enjoy knitting hats for cancer patients.

That was the start of the Healing Hats Ministry.

I took my idea to Charlene Giles on Asbury’s staff and she enthusiastically embraced the concept. Her guidance was indispensable in getting me started.

She introduced me to Ruth Winn at Asbury who was instrumental in designing our printed material, which would be given to church members. I enlisted three of my Asbury friends to serve on the Healing Hats Ministry committee with me: Betty Nollan, Pat Long, and Donna Cowan.

Together we planned our new ministry and began taking our message to all the communities in our church. Each Sunday we would spread the word and encourage members to knit hats for the cause. We expanded our mission to include not only knitted hats, but also crochet and sewn hats.

We are often asked about the requirements of this ministry. There are none. Yes…no requirements, no meetings, no quotas, and no commitments. Just knit, crochet, or sew a hat and when you are finished, just drop it in the collection box next to the Gazebo.

Make one every day, or one every week, or one every month, or even just once a year. Our need is great and we can use all the hats that you make.

As you knit you should pray for the patient. Remember James 5:15, “and the prayer offer in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up”. Bring God into the process because He will be responsible for the healing. These are Healing Hats because they bring into focus God’s warmth and love.

After the hats are collected from the drop box, they will be prayed over again by the prayer team. Then they are delivered to the Cancer Treatment Center and are displayed on an ornate “hat tree” located in the Infusion Department. Patients are free to make their selection.

Occasionally, you will see a Healing Hats lady in the church lobby displaying some of the more original hat designs. Please feel free to visit with her and learn more about the ministry. And if you or someone you know is in need of a Healing Hat, just ask. If you are not a knitter but would like to learn, there are always people willing to teach, contact me at healinghatsmin@aol.com.

Let me end by sharing with you our slogan: “Home spun with knots of love. Woven together with help from above.”

When God Speaks…

By Kim Beair, MS, LPC, NCC

world we speak in In the therapy lingo such as “natural consequence” and “logical consequence.” Here are the examples:

Action – Child touches hot stove. Natural Consequence? Child gets burned.

Action – Child makes dog wait two hours past normal feeding time to give dog his dinner. Logical Consequence? Child is made to wait two hours after his own dinnertime to eat, as well.

In the Christian world, we often “assign” our own meaning or interpretation to what God is telling us, or maybe we simply don’t listen. In either case, many people then find themselves rationalizing or justifying whatever consequence befalls them, and of course, assigning that consequence to God. Yes, God disciplines the one He loves (Proverbs 3:12, NIV), but many consequences we endure are merely a product of our actions, not God’s.

I do not, as a parent, have to dole out a consequence or punishment to my child who touches the hot stove after I have told him a hundred times not to. The burn speaks for itself. Wouldn’t it be odd, however, if my child then went to school and said “my mom burned me?” I think the next consequence I would suffer would be a visit from DHS! I would go through a long ordeal just to prove I did not abuse my hardheaded child.

Thinking of this, why then do we “assign” actions to God that He may not have authored? And how does that look to the non-Christian world we are attempting to reach?

My favorite “misquotation” of all is “God never gives us anything we can’t handle.” Ok, let’s just get real. First of all, that is not what the scripture says.

Secondly, I have a really hard time grasping the concept that if my child dies from a drunken driving incident, that God is the One who caused it.

Robert Green Ingersoll states, “Happiness is not a reward, it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment, it is a result.”

Now, of course, we know there are situations that cannot be avoided. The six-year-old diagnosed with diabetes did nothing to cause that; nor did his parents. We don’t want to assign “blame” to every situation out there, or find a cosmic reason for every evil that we endure. A 40-year-old athletic woman could die of a heart attack because of her diet, or she could die of a heart attack through no fault of her

own. The question for all of us becomes “did I do everything in my power to ensure a positive life result?” For the Christian, the question that should also be asked is “Did I listen to God?” Now, here we get into the question of “how does God speak to me?”

God speaks in many ways. First and foremost are the scriptures. Going against them is going against what God is “speaking” to us. The Bible has a list of do’s and don’ts for our behaviors. Those lists are not there to control us or keep us from having fun, but instead are there to keep us or others from being hurt. They also keep us from getting too close to people who would hurt us or take us off of God’s path for our lives. He has us here for a purpose, and if we get too use to “bending” God’s rules, we could get partially or totally off track of the mission He has assigned to us.

I have clients who love to use the “what would Jesus do” mantra for their poor choices. People are consistently getting into marriages, business dealings, and close interpersonal friendships with the type of people the scriptures say to stay away from. Yes, we are to “love” all people, even the challenging ones, but “loving” them doesn’t mean marrying them, or entering into legal or business agreements with them.

Through wisdom and discernment, we can be patient and kind to these people. We can minister to them, take them out to dinner at times as a witness, buy them some good interview clothing, give them food or gas cards, mentor them, or engage in other social or helping situations, but we don’t necessarily move them into our homes and put them on our checking accounts.

Why? Because the scriptures tell us what kind of people to be aware of. Then there are the people that your gut tells you to stay far away from – no matter what. If that happens, it might be a good idea to listen. Overriding your gut in that instance might put you in danger.

When Christians come to me for counseling, not understanding why God is “putting me through this – it must be because He is teaching me something,” I agree that they are partially correct. We then go through the scriptures to see what God told them to do or to avoid and discuss how their actions compared.

We then discuss how God’s word does not contradict itself, and we find other scriptures that confirm it.

So we have covered the scriptures as a way God “speaks” to us. That is certainly the clearest. What about going to church? Many people testify about their pastor’s words piercing their hearts from the pulpit, stating “that was from God, and that was for me.”

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People sometimes have a friend, family member or mentor speak something to them, and have that deep “knowing” that it was a word from God. There are some people who get really strong “gut” instincts that are generally right, and some people actually hear an audible voice. Pastors have reported writing whole sermons completely on the leading of the Holy Spirit. God speaks, they write it down, and then they preach it.

The point of this is to say that God speaks to all of us in different ways at different times. The method of how he communicates to each person is irrelevant here. The point is, are we listening and obeying?

in the middle of the road. He stops and in a split second surveys his surroundings to see absolutely nothing…until a speeding car careens out of control and passes right in front of his car, through a wood fence and into a house. He realized if he hadn’t stopped, he would have likely been killed.

Susan has a “dream” telling her that her husband’s drive home today will result in his death. She prays all day and tells him multiple times to wear his seatbelt and be aware (he did not routinely wear his seatbelt.)

Later, after prayer and petition, she senses it will be alright, dresses her small children, and puts them in the car to “go get daddy when he has his car wreck,”

“The Holy Trinity is not just our emotional dumping ground. We need to stop, look and listen daily.”

Some people refuse to hear anything at all, some people ignore, and some people deny. Some people are like the strong willed adolescent who says “I hear you; I know what you are saying is true and applies to me, I know I will be sorry if I don’t do what you say, but I just don’t want to.” Then there are others who say “Yes Lord… I’ll get to it later.”

To be honest, the “I’ll do it later” scenario is worse than the blatantly disobedient. At least the blatantly disobedient people are honest up front. Delayed obedience is simply this: disobedience. At least the defiant person who said “no” up front didn’t add a lie to his sin.

Yep, I said it – a lie. When you tell God or anyone you will “get to it later” you run the risk of forgetting completely, then it becomes a lie, regardless of the motivation. I think we can all honestly say we have done this more than once.

One man clearly heard from God much of the time, yet never did anything when he was told to do it. He then had massive guilt and weeks, months or years later would finally do what he was asked to do, then wonder why nothing good came from it.

Sometimes when we are “late” it can be worse than never. Besides, if you didn’t obey, God may have found someone else to accomplish that task, so sometimes you are just wasting your time. Of course, that is all to be discerned through prayer when acting too late – you actually may be called to complete the task anyway. This is why prayer, staying in the Word and wise counsel are so important.

Here are some true stories about“listening” to God: Paul takes his usual way home but hears a small voice tell him to take the alternate route by turning at the convenience store. He thinks the strong urge/ voice is odd and contemplates while he continues driving (not making the turn). Then, the first audible voice (from God) he has ever heard yells “STOP.” Yes, Page 21

now feeling he will be ok. Her husband calls to say a car came out from behind a truck, hit him hard, and his head stopped right before it went through the windshield – because he was wearing his seatbelt.

Jenny’s son is Matthew. She hears a voice in the morning say, “Matthew, violence, tonight, pray.” That night Matthew was the victim of an armed robbery. He survived and lived to take the criminals to prosecution.

James had a great job. He says God told him to give his 30-day notice on February 1 to leave his position. He did it. Two weeks after turning it in, with only two weeks to go at work, he is asked to take a great new “dream” job to start the first week of March. This “dream” job ultimately prepared him for what God had told him for years: that he would write a book for a major publisher.

You can see that any of these situations could have been different if the people did not “listen”. Was that God speaking to them? Only they could tell you what they think; the rest of us would have to judge by the outcome. Some required action, some required prayer, and some required both. Some were life threatening, some were not.

Paul did not listen to the still small voice telling him to turn, so God had to speak louder – assuming it was God. We know that Jesus left so the Holy Spirit could come to stay with us. I hate to think He is just a stalker watching over us all the time and doing nothing. Surely He is a little more involved in our lives than that. Jesus is our Good Shepherd, and He will never mislead us. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me (John 10:27, NIV).

The Holy Trinity is not just our emotional dumping ground. We need to stop, look and listen daily. We need to pray without ceasing and listen to the response. God really wants to feel He is important in our lives. We need to pay attention and listen to Him, however He chooses to communicate. We might find that happiness is our result much more often.

See more at: http://kimspirations-bykimbeair. blogspot.com/

S ur r e nd e r i n g

TO HIS C ALL - One Couple’s Story of Sacrifice and Servanthood in Southeast Asia

By Kara Beair

F

or most of us, religious persecution is something we have heard about, but something we rarely face as members of the Tulsa Community. As Americans, we are blessed with the opportunity to worship as we choose and to share our beliefs with others.

While many of us have probably faced criticism regarding what we believe, we really have no concept of what it would be like to be unable to worship God or share His love with others without facing serious consequences.

However, for many nations in Southeast Asia, this is a harsh reality. Though many religions are practiced in this part of the world, Christian and Muslim populations frequently face persecution on a regular basis. In one region, over 3,000 villages have been destroyed during the past ten years simply because of their religious practices.

Additionally, it is increasingly difficult and in many cases impossible for non-Buddhists to join the army or get a government job. These positions are considered the way to success in Southeastern Asia. Being a Christian often means risking one’s financial stability and very life for one’s beliefs.

Despite the persecution that these people face,there are individuals who are willing to follow the Lord and share His word with others no matter what the cost.

One such man goes by the name of Philip. Philip is a pastor, teacher, evangelist, and the founder of a Bible school in a Southeastern Asian country. The work Philip is doing in villages across his home country is having a powerful impact on many young people, including a couple whom we will call Timothy and Phoebe.

In 2002, Philip came to Timothy and Phoebe’s village as a missionary to their people group. Timothy and Phoebe had both grown up identifying themselves as Christians, but it was not until Philip came to give a training seminar in their village that they finally heard the “true gospel” as Timothy refers to it.

They had been raised to believe it was good works that would bring them their salvation. Through Philip’s teaching, they came to understand that it was a relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than good works that would give them everlasting life. During Philip’s three months in their village, Timothy and Phoebe both asked Jesus into their hearts, repented of their sins, and were ultimately baptized.

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As their relationship with Christ developed, the couple felt they were being led into the ministry. As it says in Isaiah 6:8, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!”

Timothy and Phoebe possessed willing spirits and were prepared to surrender to God’s call even if it meant giving up a great deal to do so.

With Philip’s encouragement, Timothy and Phoebe decided to go to Bible school to pursue theological studies. In order to do this, they had to leave their one-year-old son in the care of a grandparent. Due to financial constraints, they would not be able to go home to visit their son during the next four years.

For many of us, it is hard to imagine giving up four years with our young child, even if it was for a plan we believed God had for us. This just demonstrates the depth of Timothy and Phoebe’s love for the Lord and their faith in the plan He had for them.

During the last two years of their schooling, the couple would make yet another sacrifice as Phoebe would go to a different Theological school (Philip’s school) to complete her studies. At this institution, Phoebe was able to focus on Evangelism, an area of ministry to which she feels she has been called.

Though this school was in the same city as Timothy’s school, transportation was such that the two were only able to see one another on weekends. It wasn’t easy, but they persevered.

In 2009, Timothy, who is now 23 years old, graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. He returned home at that time to begin pastoring a small church in his village, which is dedicated to reaching the animists (nature worshippers) with the Gospel.

“My prayer and vision is to see my people group come to know the saving knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ,” says Timothy.

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In January of 2010, Phoebe, now 24, received her Bachelor’s Degree in Theology, as well, and was finally reunited with her husband and five-year-old son. She is currently assisting her husband with his pastoral duties.

“My vision and prayer is to find a way I can help children in remote areas and also help my husband become an effective servant of God,” Phoebe says.

As they grow and develop their church, Timothy and Phoebe face financial hardship, but they will not be deterred. In order to continue doing God’s work and reaching this unique people group, the couple needs the means to support themselves and their young son. They are in need of funds to purchase a rice field, which will provide food for their family and generate income that will enable them to become self-supporting missionaries.

A local ministry has taken up their cause and is collecting donations to help them achieve their goal. If you would like to contribute, you can make a check out to Word Among Us Ministries and mail it to PO Box 33158 Tulsa, OK 74153. Indicate “Timothy Project” on the memo line. Your donation will be tax-deductible.

Word Among Us Ministries has already raised enough money to provide Timothy with a motorbike, which he will use to travel into remote areas to share the gospel with indigenous people.

Today, Timothy and Phoebe continue to serve the Lord no matter what the cost. They live their lives by a quote of Quaker origin, which says, “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

Though they have had to make great sacrifices to follow God’s plan for their lives, they never want to pass up an opportunity to share God’s love and His word with others.

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asbury

opportunities GENERAL INFORMATION Breakfast

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

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

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

Asbury Family News Sunday Morning Worship is available at the Welcome Centers. It includes births, 8:00 am Mason Chapel deaths, marriages, baptisms and military listings.

(Traditional Communion) 9:15 am Sanctuary (Contemporary) Doors of Asbury 9:15 am CLC (Open House Worship) posters are at the Welcome Centers...FREE! Suitable for (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) framing.

11:00 am Sanctuary (Traditional) 11:00 am Venue 68 (Modern with sign interpreter) New Additions to the Library The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you Sunday Evening Worship to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.

6:30 pm Venue 68 (Modern) Toastmasters Sundays for Children and Students Toastmasters is a learn-by-doing workshop in which 6 Weeks - 4 Years 8:00, 9:15, and 11:00 am participants hone their speaking and leadership skills K-6th Grades 9:15 or 11:00 am in a friendly atmosphere. Members learn communica7th, 8th & 9th Grades 9:15 & 11:00 am tion skills by performing a series of 10 self-paced speak10th, 11th & 12th Grades 9:15 am only ing assignments designed to instill a basic foundation in public speaking. Members also learn leadership skills by Adult Discipleship Communities taking on various meeting roles. Every Monday that the Sunday at 8:00, 9:15, & 11:00 am, 20/30 Vision meets church is open, 11:45 am – 12:45 pm, Room 2820 at 9:15 Sunday mornings in room 1507 for ages 20s30s. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, try our new ACCESS Circuit Riders, who meet in front of the statue on Hands of Love Sign Choir the west parking lot each Sunday at 2 p.m. for a ride Sundays, 6:00-7:00 pm, Rm. 2821 before fellowship time (weather permitting!)

Friends in Christ Community Rooted: A NEW community of young couples— Sundays, 11:00 am, Rm. 1507 some engaged, mostly married—who are seeking to know and love Jesus and share Him with the world. BIBLE STUDY We also have lot of fun! Come join us! E-mail JO- RoadMap dom@asburytulsa.org for more information. 20s/ Check out the Summer 2010 RoadMap courses in the Early 30s; 9:15 AM in room 2314 new brochure and on the Asbury website at www.asburytulsa.org. Accept Pastor Tom’s challenge to get The Team: A NEW community of singles and cou- actively involved in digging deeper into God’s Word ~ ples who like to get together and talk about Jesus there is something for everyone. Look for the next and what it looks like to follow Him.We’re mostly in round of Disciple I bible study beginning in the next few our early to mid 20s and like doing lots of fun stuff weeks! Orientation is required for attending the course. together! Come hang out! E-mail Rachel.Read@ Choose from 1 of these dates to attend: Tuesday, July 27 ou.edu for more information! For 20s/Early 30s; or August 3, or Thursday, July 29 or August 5. All will be 7.30-9:00 PM, Wednesday nights in the Venue 68 N 6:30-7:30 pm in CLC. See RoadMap brochure or webLobby; Childcare provided site info for more details.

Surgery or Hospitalization Scheduled?

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling Pam at 392-4589 so your pastors can be in prayer for you. When you enter the hospital, please designate Asbury as your church.

The after-hours pastoral emergency line can be reached by calling 492-1771, selecting option 6, and leaving a message for the pastor on call.

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CARE AND SUPPORT

S.M.I.L.E. (Single Mothers in the Lord’s Embrace) A new ministry that seeks to strengthen, empower, and support single moms while providing emotional and spiritual encouragement; a place to belong, be loved, and accepted; allowing ‘me’ time with free childcare. An opportunity for single moms to walk with others through this challenging journey knowing they are not alone.

Meets 6:00-8:45 pm on the 4th Thursday of each month this summer beginning June 24 in Parlor. For more information, contact Mary-Margaret at 8080981 or Kellie at kaustin10@cox.net. Childcare and free time included!

Healing Hats Ministry A new Asbury ministry created to provide hats to cancer patients who have lost their hair. Home spun with knots of love, woven together with help from above!

Simply knit, crochet or sew a hat of your choice and drop it in the collection box located next to the Gazebo. Find more information in the literature rack attached to the collection box. Contact Sue at 455-2816 or HealingHatsMin@aol.com for more information.

Visits to Asbury Members Asbury has a group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are homebound, in nursing homes or in assisted living facilities. If you are interested in being visited, call Adrena at 392-1144, or contact the coordinator, Abby Sluice at 392-4583 or asluice@asburytulsa.org.

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

OJT (Overcoming Job Transitions) The unemployed are not lepers, but sometimes it feels that way. How can YOU help people you know dealing with job issues? INVITE THEM TO OJT! We offer encouragement, prayer support and hands-on workshops helping with résumés, networking, interviewing, the internet and more. WE NEED MORE JOB CANDIDATES! You know someone who needs this!

Meets the third Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm, Family Room. Questions? Contact Russ Knight at OJTjobs@gmail.com or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Prayer Card Sending Team Usually meets first and third Mondays at 10:00 am in Room 1508 to send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times. Cards and care packages are also sent to Asbury-related military personnel. Contact Gwen Mohler at GRMOHLER@aol.com for more information, or call Ruth at 392-1146.

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

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

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

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

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

Childcare available.

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

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren First and third Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm, Rm 1506.

Mental Health Support for Families For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness. 4th Thursdays from 1:30 - 3:00 pm in Rm 1507.

Military Connection Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-related military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer. Please call Jo VanDeWiele at 459-0888 with complete name and address or send to Gwen at grmohler@aol.com.

Asbury Bear Bags Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury Bear to someone who is grieving. For more information, contact Beth at beth.bears@yahoo.com.

CHILDREN

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

Core Childcare Hours Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes during these core hours will have childcare provided for children 6 weeks - 12 years of age with no reservations needed: Sun 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Mon & Tue 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Tue, Wed, & Thur 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Roller Skating Day Wednesday, July 7, 2010. 10:00am – 12pm, Broken ArPage 26

row Roller Sports. 1st – 6th grade (or younger if accompanied by an adult). Why not get rollin’ with Asbury! Meet your friends or bring some along to get out of the heat and skate the day away! Asbury has the whole place to ourselves! Admission is $7 per person and includes your skates, a drink, and an ice cream treat! For more information call Amber Cox at 392-1171 or acox@asburytulsa.org.

Toddler N’ Me Tuesday, July 13, 10 -11:30 am, children’s 2nd floor gathering area. 2 & 3 year olds. Toddler N’ Me is a special time for a parent and/or grandparent and their two and three-year olds to enjoy activities designed for everyone to have lots of fun just being together!

Nursery will be provided for younger (over 6 weeks) and older (up to 6th grade) siblings. Cost is $3/child to help cover supplies. Please register in advance to help with planning for supplies. For more information call Amber Cox at 392-1171 or acox@asburytulsa.org.

Mega Movie Morning Wednesday, July 14, 10:00am – 12pm, Children’s 2nd floor gathering area. Why not join us in your pajamas for a morning of movies! We will offer 3 movie choices plus we will have a concession stand open with all your favorite snacks. 4 year olds to 6th graders (or younger if accompanied by an adult) plan on bringing a few dollars to buy some yummy snacks and a pillow to sit back and enjoy some great flicks with friends.

For more information please contact Jennifer Barnes at 392-4582 or jbarnes@asburytulsa.org.

Super Kids Day Wednesday, July 21, 10:00 am – noon, 4year olds to 6th graders, Asbury Gymnasium, $5 per person. Two, four, six, eight… who do we appreciate… our KIDS! This will be a super time to celebrate our kids with a day just for them. Why not drop off in gym for open gym, crafts, blow- up obstacle course and concessions for sale.

Bring a little extra money for snacks. Adult volunteers needed. For more information contact Kim Broadhurst at 392-1165 or kbroadhurstt@asburytulsa.org.

Family Game Night Wednesday, July 28, 6-8pm, CLC. Why not play some Bingo! Come enjoy this free family night out and play bingo with your kids! We’ll have prizes for our Bingo winners. Bring some friends or grandparents along with you. Concessions including hot dogs and nachos will be for sale. No registrations necessary. For more information call Jennifer Barnes at 392-4582 or jbarnes@asburytulsa.org.

Kindergarten Blessing Service Sunday, August 8, 4pm in the Sanctuary. Children who are just entering kindergarten and their families are invited to come be a part of this service of affirmation and blessing. This service will be followed by a Page 27

celebration reception and commemorative activities in the CLC. Please register by August 3rd to ensure your child receives a certificate. For more information call Kim Broadhurst at 392-1165 or kbroadhurst@asburytulsa.org.

DISCIPLESHIP

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

ENDOWMENTS

Leave a legacy that continues to give forever to a ministry you want to support. There are endowments that support many areas of Asbury’s outreach including children, youth, music, missions, and training of pastors as well as a General endowment. You can easily impact a ministry thru your will or a current gift. Contact Dwight Yoder at 392-1113 or dyoder@asburytulsa.org.

MARRIAGE & FAMILY

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

Milestone Wedding Anniversaries Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary (5,10,15,20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucars2@ cox.net or call Ruth at 392-1146.

Couples Comedy Club Friday, August 6, 2010, 7-9pm in the Family Room. Let us plan your date night! Enjoy Christian comedian Joe McGee for laughs and marriage insights. (No matter how long you’ve been married!) Desserts served first class. Tickets $10/per couple available in church office.

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

This is an interactive class that will help you replace old habits with new ones in a unique, safe environment. Go from good to great, mediocre to magnificent or hurt to healed. Cost: $130/couple (many materials included, scholarships available) $50 holds your spot. To register, contact Jackie or Ron at 251-6665 or asburydynamicmarriage@windstream.net. Limited to first 12 paid couples in each class. Next classes start in September.

Childcare available.

MEMBERSHIP

Asbury Exploration Come to a lunch/class to learn more about becoming a member of Asbury. Sunday, August 8, from 12:15-2:00 pm in Community Life Center. Lunch provided and childcare is available for children six weeks through 6th grade. Call 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, life-changing prayer and an awesome big breakfast, all for just $3 per person. First-time guests are free.

July 7 Dub Ambrose July 14 Pec Clark July 21 Don Herrold July 28 Todd 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! A really awesome bunch of guys are meeting every 2nd & 4th Friday at 11:15 a.m., for good food and great fellowship.

They take place at Village Inn (71st and Memorial), and are open to anyone 60 years and up. For more information, contact Bud at bdmathes@cox.net or Jim at rober@cox.net.

Car Care Workday Saturday, July 10, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon, Outside Family Center entrance, northeast side. 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. If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Mike at mnalley16@cox. net. If you are in need of these services, just get your vehicle in line by 11:30! No reservations necessary!

Home Improvement Work Days Saturday August 21, meet in the CLC at 8:30-9:30 am for planning. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family.

Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. If you’d like to help, contact Michiel at michiel0930@ sbcglobal.net. If you are in need of help, just pick up a request form at the south welcome desk, or call your request in to Pam Wallace (392-4589), at least ten days before the scheduled work day. A Home Im-

provement volunteer will contact you, and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done!

Family Golf Tournament To benefit Men’s Rio Bravo Mission Trip – July 2010 – Watch Asbury publications for details!

MISSIONS

2nd Saturday Looking for an easy way to make a difference and share Christ’s love in Tulsa! Join us this 2nd Saturday, June 12, at 8:30 a.m. at Venue68 and choose between local mission opportunities. At 8:45 we head to the ministry sites. Teams work from 9:00-11:30 a.m. and buses return to Venue68 no later than 12:15. Families with children welcomed and encouraged! Contact Betty Higgins at carevets@aol.com for more information.

Save the Date Latin American Mission Celebration Luncheon Date: October 17th Time: 12:15 (after the service) Place: Asbury CLC Honorable Guests: Bishop Robert Hayes and Bishop Garcia from Monterrey Food, folkloric dancers, and more.

Hosted by Asbury’s GO Latin America Ministry Team.

MISSIONS/VIM

Volunteers In Mission 2010 Opportunities July 22-August 2 Estonia, Parnu, MBS & Light Construction September 15-27 Tanzania, East Africa, Construction September 30-October 9 Central Asia, Relationship, Teaching & Light Construction Fall Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction October 16-23 Monterrey,Mexico,MBS & Construction November 3-7 Monterrey, Mexico, Medical VIM Leader Training: September 18 - Oklahoma City and October 23-Oklahoma City.

Contact Marilene Long at 392-1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org if you are interested in serving on any of these teams or being part of the VIM Leader Training.

MUSIC

Chancel Choir Wednesdays, 7:00 pm, Choir Room New Covenant Orchestra Wednesdays, 6:00-7:30 pm, Rm 1510

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PRAYER

Altar Prayer If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or immediately following a worship service, please come to the altar rail. A pastor or member of the Altar Prayer Team will be glad to pray with you for your needs – physical, emotional or spiritual - at the altar or in the Prayer Room.

Prayer Room Reservations The leadership of Asbury’s prayer ministry would like to remind you that the main facility Prayer Room is open not only to individuals desiring to pray in a quiet, meditative atmosphere, but also to prayer groups within communities and ministries. Just give Debbie in the Adult Ministries office a call at 392-1177 to reserve the Prayer Room for your group on a weekly or monthly basis.

power walking, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship.

Come give it a try.

Senior Game Time Every third Thursday – 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Attention Asbury Senior Adults! How would you like to get together on a regular basis with a wonderful bunch of folks and play a few rounds of cards, dominoes, or whatever board or card game you chose? You KNOW you’d love it! If you’re a senior adult age 55 and up, come check it out in Room 2820. Bring a friend and stay for as long as you like!

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 Prayer Room Days & Times Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times: times vary according to the movie selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few days ahead of time so they can make plans accordingly. For Mason Chapel & Venue 68 Sundays from 7:00 am - 12:30 pm through the interior more information or to sign up for the call list, contact Sally Wood, sally-wood@sbcglobal.net. doors.

Main Facility, Mason Chapel, & Venue 68 Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Sunday 12:30 pm - 9:00 pm To obtain pass codes, call Debbie in the Adult Ministries office at 392-1177.

RECOVERY

Celebrate Recovery Come join this supportive group of people each Monday night at 6:00 pm. Dinner at 6:00 pm;Worship from 7:00-8:00 pm; Small Groups from 8:00-9:00 pm; Dessert from 9:00-9:30 pm. Hiding any hurts, habits or hangups? 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 ozyanks2000@yahoo.com Senior Sit and Fit Stretching Class Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00-9:30 am in the Gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for a time of stretching, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. No high impact workout here.We take it nice and easy. Come give it a try.

Senior Walk in the Gym with Him Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:30-9:00 am in the gym. All senior adults are invited to join us for Page 29

SINGLES

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

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

Childcare available.

Singles Potluck Fellowship Sunday, July 25, 12:15-1:30 pm in the Parlor. Come, bring your children and enjoy a delicious lunch, courtesy of your fellow singles! Just bring a “family-sized” food item, homemade or purchased! Great food, great fellowship, new friends …it just doesn’t get much better than that!

Singles Summer Luncheon Sunday, August 29, 12:15-1:30pm, in the CLC. Come be a part of this luncheon designed for singles of all ages, with plenty of good food and great fellowship!

The catered luncheon will consist of a delicious entrée and salad, with homemade bread and dessert.

The cost is just $5 for adults, and children 10 and under eat FREE!

STUDENTS

789Grade Breakaway Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:30 am in the Breakaway Area. This isn’t your normal Sunday school. Come join us for worship, fun and games, interactive talk/lesson, and sometimes free candy and gift cards.

789 Incredible Pizza Sunday, July 11. 7th 8th and 9th graders don’t miss this fun night of pizza and games! 6-8:30 pm. Meet and pick up at Incredible Pizza.

789 Food Bank Tuesday, July 20. Come help the hungry people of Oklahoma by serving at the Tulsa Food Bank, all 789 students welcome, meet at Venue at 8:30am, we will return at 12:15pm. (Wear close-toed shoes!)

789 Pool Party Sunday, July 25. 7th, 8th and 9th graders everyone is invited for a night to swim and eat! Bring a 2 liter of pop, a snack or desert, 6-8pm Location TBA. 101112 Breakaway Every Wednesday night we come together for a time of connection and worship. Our desire is to explore who God really is and how our lives matter to Him. We get started around 6:30 pm and wrap up around 8:30ish. Plan on hanging out afterwards for pizza.

101112 Breakaway Will Not Meet July 21 due to Dayspring camp.

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

Our small groups meet every Sunday night, times vary.

Some of the groups meet in homes and others meet at the church. Call Todd @ 392-1154 or Amy @ 3921156 to get more info.

101112 Float Trip July 6, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. All 10th, 11th, 12th & grads come float the Illinois River with us. Cost is $20 and bring a sack lunch.

101112 Pool Party Sunday, July 11. Pool party at the Tresch’s. Time TBA; bring chips and cookies!

SOS Tulsa Missions Service opportunities for 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students. Make a difference in the lives of kids by reading to young kids, building relationships, and having fun!

We will join Wesley UMC in serving the young people of north Tulsa, as well as serving the church with work projects around their building. Meet at Asbury at 7:30 am. Service dates are: June 17, 24 and July 8, 15, 29.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Get plugged in!

Volunteer opportunities have been updated and can be found at the information desks near the main entrances and Venue68. Updates are also posted on the website.

There is a link in the left column on the home page.

WOMEN

Women of the Word Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 am in Rm 2319, Rev. Darlene Johnson, teacher.

Crafty Ladies Fellowship Mondays, 9:30 am - 1:00 pm, Rm 2820. Ladies, if you enjoy doing crafts and fellowshipping at the same time, this activity is for you! We gather on Monday mornings to work on our own individual arts and crafts, stop for a delicious pot-luck lunch, and continue on through until 1:00 p.m. We have a wonderful time together, and would love to have you join us! For more information, contact Betty Seetin, and stop by some Monday and check us out!

UMW July Summer Salad Luncheon Thursday, July 1, 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, CLC. Attention all ladies! It’s summertime, and the pace is a little slower for Asbury’s UMW. Join us on July 1 at 11:30 am for our Summer Salad Luncheon. This month’s luncheon will open with a flag ceremony presented by Asbury Boy Scout Troup #10, and will also feature John Marquis, tester-observer for Asbury’s PAWS Ministry (Pets Are Working Saints). John will speak about this program and the opportunity it provides for service in the visitation of residents in hospitals, hospice and nursing facilities, as well as in homes and schools. Also a representative from Therapeutic Service Dogs will speak about their program of training service dogs to assist Oklahomans with physical disabilities. SOME DOGS MAY BE PRESENT FOR THIS PROGRAM. Bring your favorite salad and a friend and get ready for a celebrative time with your Asbury sisters!

Car Care Workday Saturday, July 10, 9:00 am – 12:00 noon, Outside Family Center entrance, northeast side. 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. If you would like to volunteer to help, contact Mike at mnalley16@cox. net. If you are in need of these services, just get your vehicle in line by 11:30! No reservations necessary!

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Home Improvement Work Days Saturday, August 21. The Home Improvement Ministry serves widows and single moms within the Asbury family. Our men’s ministry volunteers make themselves available every other month to help folks out with minor home repairs and/or home improvement projects. If you’d like to help, contact Michiel at michiel0930@sbcglobal.net. If you are in need of help, just pick up a request form at the south welcome desk, or call your request in to Pam Wallace (392-4589), at least ten days before the scheduled work day. A Home Improvement volunteer will contact you, and make final arrangements to get the job(s) done!

UMW Annual Garage Sale Come one; come all to the United Methodist Women’s Annual Garage Sale, benefitting mission efforts in our community and beyond! This colossal event takes place on Friday, July 16 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturday, July 17 from 8:00 a.m. - noon in the Community Life Center, and draws hundreds of contributors and bargain hunters alike! You’ll find toys, gently-used clothing, books, DVD’s, jewelry, small appliances, furniture and so much more! Those wishing to donate items may bring them to the CLC on Thursday, July 15 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. (No underclothing, socks, shoes or computers, and all clothes must be on hangers, please.)

Don’t miss this great opportunity to get good quality items at rock-bottom prices! See you at the sale!

Common Grounds: Friendship, Fun & Faith for Women Thursday, August 26. Watch Asbury publications for details!

WORSHIP

8:00 am Communion Service Mason Chapel. Traditional service with music led by Hart Morris. Communion is served and Dr. Harrison preaches.

9:15 am Contemporary Praise & 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.

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.

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11:00 am Traditional Service 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.

11:00 am Modern Service Venue 68. 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.

Patriotic Services We will celebrate the Fourth of July as a church family on Sunday, July 4, in the sanctuary. All congregations will worship together either at the 9am or 11am service. The New Covenant Orchestra and the Chancel Choir will present a soul-stirring patriotic music program followed by a short message from Dr. Tom Harrison. Join us as we celebrate our nation’s independence and the goodness of our God!

asbury marriages births & deaths marriages:

Lewis McGowan and Susan Sanditen were married May 15, 2010.

Andrew Simpson Boyd and Suzanne Elizabeth Area were married May 15, 2010.

deaths:

Nathan Russell, son of Trey Russell, died April 28, 2010.

asbury

anniversaries!

50 Years Glen & Bettye Perry July 8, 1960 Jim & Gail Hunt July 12, 1960 Jim & Christine VanderLind June 18, 1960 35 Years Terry & Barbara White June 20, 1975

Barbara Fenn died April 30, 2010.

Katrina Snyder died May 3, 2010.

Dale Frakes died May 7, 2010.

Marlene Runnels, mother of Melissa (Darren) Rutherford, died May 9, 2010.

Glen Barnes, husband of Barbara, died May 26, 2010.

Glen & Bettye Perry - 50 years Page 32

Jim & Gail Hunt - 50 years

Jim & Christine VanderLind - 50 years Page 33

asbury

new members

Cheryl Carnes

Gary & Cheryl Casey with Mathew & Amber

Sid Heidler

Jason & Angie Henderson with Taylor

Kevin & Ann Lewis

Chris Miller with Chad

Becky Ruth with Elizabeth

Chad & Nikki Smithey with Braden & Addison

Jason & Molly Soderstrom

asbury exploration classes

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

Upcoming 2010 Exploration classes will be held on – June 6, August 8, September 12, October 3, November 7 and December 5.

Please call 392-1191 to reserve your place.

Childcare is available and lunch is provided Tom and Whitney Carruthers

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Glorify God...Make Disciples

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www.asburytulsa.org

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