Clearly Caring - Home Edition by Clearly Caring

Clearly Caring Christian Life Resources

Home Edition 2012 Volume 32 / Number 1

Life

Forever! 4 Is An Objection on Religious 8 Grounds Enough?

Pro-Life Forever

10 An Ironclad

Also... Mother’s Wisdom vs. Teenager’s Response

Guarantee

Page 12

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Clearly Caring – Home Edition Christian Life Resources

Life Forever! 2012

Is An Objection on Religious Grounds Enough?

Volume 32 / Number 1

Pro-Life Forever Rev. Mark Braun

An Ironclad Guarantee 1-800-478-2719

www.FamilyTG.com Tim Snyder

Spring Catalog

Pastor Robert Fleischmann

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“Heaven is for Real”

Mother’s Wisdon vs. Teenager’s Response

Lynn & Sarah Klammer

News & Views | 16

Q&A | 18

Save the Date for our National Convention

by Todd Burpo with lynn Vincent A young boy emerges from life-saving surgery with remarkable stories of his visit to heaven. “Heaven is for Real” is the true story of the four-year-old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. The family didn’t know what to believe but soon the evidence was clear. Colton said he met his miscarried sister, whom no one had told him about, and his great grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born, then shared impossible-to-know details about each. He describes the horse that only Jesus could ride, about how “reaaally big” God and his chair are, and how the Holy Spirit “shoots down power” from heaven to help us. Told by the father, but often in Colton’s own words, the disarmingly simple message is heaven is a real place, Jesus really loves children, and be ready, there is a coming last battle. Paperback, 163 pages.

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Featured on the cover of this issue is the print “Mary” by artist David Bowman. “Easter morning. Mary Magdalene is at the tomb. She is weeping because of the disappearance of Jesus’ body. Suddenly, the resurrected Christ appears and speaks to her. Lost in her grief, she doesn’t recognize Him at first. That is, not until He says that one most familiar of all words: Her name. “Mary.” I wanted to capture that moment of recognition. The gasp, the intake of breath, the spontaneous smile... all in that split-second before Mary turns around to confirm the impossible. Your name. One simple word. You’ve heard it thousands of times. But imagine how you will feel when one day the Master looks you in the eye, smiles and calls you by name.” Size: 12"W x 16"H, Unframed. Retail Price $19.00 Sale Price $13.29 Ordering information is on page XII. Find “Mary” and more prints from David Bowman at www.FamilyTG.com.

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To see previous issues of Clearly Caring go to: www.ClearlyCaring.com Christian Life Resources, Inc., 3070 Helsan Drive, Richfield, WI 53076-9582 Phone: (800) 729-9535 Email: contact@christianliferesources.com Websites: www.ClearlyCaring.com and www.ChristianLifeResources.com

c o m m e n ta ry

Is An Objection on Religious Grounds Enough? by Pastor Robert Fleischmann

“The path of least resistance is the path of the loser.”

These early eugenics advocates did not favor the extreme measures eventually used by Nazi Germany, yet their advocacy lacked the foresight in knowing where eugenics would go.

[attributed to H.G. Wells, 1866-1946] We have done it before, and it appears we are poised to do it again. The recent government mandate requiring even religious agencies to cover the cost of abortifacient drugs as birth control under the new health care plan has caused Christians to line up to protect their consciences. Is that enough? Let’s not forget this important lesson from history:

Compulsory Sterilization A particular focus of the eugenics movement involved a reduction in human reproduction among those who might pass on the maladies of mental illness, deafness, blindness, epilepsy, and physical deformities. Counseling was not enough – more drastic measures were deemed necessary.

Purifying the Race – Eugenics

Both Michigan (1897) and Pennsylvania (1905) tried but failed to pass compulsory sterilization laws. In 1907, however, Indiana became the first state to mandate sterilization of those deemed unfit to reproduce.

In 1865 Sir Francis Galton of Britain encouraged purification of the race through careful breeding. His message of eugenics resonated with the world. As the industrial age brought an increased level of corporate competitiveness it became important to maintain the best and brightest stock.

In 1912 the First International Congress of Eugenics convened in London. By 1914 a dozen states had already passed some sort of sterilization law. In that year the United States Eugenics Record Office drafted the “Model Eugenical Sterilization Law” to authorize sterilization of the “socially inadequate” – people supported in institutions or “maintained wholly or in part by public expense.”

Although eugenics began in Britain, the United States gave the movement credibility. It attracted the attention of such notable public figures as Katharine McCormick (heir of the International Harvester fortune), Andrew Carnegie (steel magnate), John D. Rockefeller (Standard Oil), J. Harvey (Kellogg’s), Mary Williamson Averell (Union and Southern Pacific Railroads), Alexis Carrel (inventor of the heart pump), and Charles Lindberg (aviator). C learly C aring

Nine years later (in 1921), the Second International Eugenics Congress was

2012 VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

The Next Step for Eugenics

held at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. An early advocate of compulsory sterilization of the deaf was Alexander Graham Bell, who was named honorary president of the Second Congress.

Germany suffered a humiliating defeat in World War I. Extreme nationalism found a comfortable breeding ground in Germany as the nation lamented its loss and looked to the future.

Then the state of Virginia legalized compulsory sterilization in 1924. Carrie Buck, the 17-year-old daughter of an institutionalized mother, had “It is better for all the world, if instead delivered a child outside of of waiting to execute degenerate marriage and was erroneously offspring for crime or to let them presumed to have inherited starve for their imbecility, society can the “feeblemindedness” of her prevent those who are manifestly unfit mother. Carrie Buck became the subject of a court challenge from continuing their kind... Three that went to the U.S. Supreme generations of imbeciles are enough.” Court. The high court ruled against Carrie Buck in Buck v. Bell (1927), making compulsory sterilization Germans objected to the Treaty of Versailles permissible. In his written opinion, Justice which demanded huge reparations from Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. stated, “It their country for its role in World War I. is better for all the world, if instead of Under the treaty’s terms, Germany was waiting to execute degenerate offspring made to compensate the Allied countries for crime or to let them starve for their for war damages in the amount of 132 imbecility, society can prevent those who billion marks (about $131.4 billion by are manifestly unfit from continuing their 1921 standards or $442 billion by 2012 kind... Three generations of imbeciles are standards). That debt would not be fully enough.” Carrie was later forcibly sterilized. paid until October of 2010 – 89 years later. Interest in race purification reached When the National Socialist German deep into urban and rural communities. Workers’ Party (Nazis) formed in 1920 In 1925, Kansas began holding “fittest it resonated with the German people. family” contests at state and county The Nazi Party promoted the myth that fairs. Margaret Sanger, the founder of Germany had been “stabbed in the back” Planned Parenthood, embraced eugenics (Dolchstoßlegende) by civilians on the home as a means of controlling the breeding of front. It depicted the Weimar Republic society’s undesirables. An improved stock (the form of government established of people meant a healthier society. in Germany at the conclusion of World War I) as “a morass of corruption, degeneracy, national humiliation, ruthless persecution of the honest ‘national opposition’ – fourteen years of rule by Jews, Marxists and ‘cultural Bolsheviks.’”

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In 1932 a Third International Eugenics Congress was again held in New York. Speakers promoted: birth “selection” over birth control, scrutiny and deportation of immigrants suspected of carrying “inadmissible traits” and the overall warning of doom on civilization as a whole if eugenic measures were not implemented. C learly C aring

In January 1933 Adolf Hitler emerged as the newly-appointed German chancellor. Change would come quickly. (continued on next page)

2012 VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

Sterilizing the German Infirm

After the Catholic Church received conscientious objector status, Germany’s sterilization plan took off. To culturally, nationally and economically restore their country’s people, Germany felt the next logical step involved the prevention of the breeding of “undesirables.” Follow the logic to its horrific conclusion:

Germany was poised to begin compulsory sterilization. America crossed that bridge in 1907 and by 1933, 31 of the 48 states had passed sterilization laws. Germany learned about forced sterilization of the infirm from the United States and intended to use it. Law for the Prevention of Genetically-Diseased Offspring – Stated “any person suffering from a hereditary disease may be rendered incapable of procreation by means of a surgical operation (sterilization), if the experience of medical science shows that it is highly probable that his descendants would suffer from some serious physical or mental hereditary defect.” The new law mandated sterilization in instances of: 1) heritable feeblemindedness, 2) schizophrenia, 3) manic-depressive illness, 4) heritable epilepsy, 5) heritable Huntington’s chorea, 6) heritable blindness, 7) heritable deafness, 8) severe physical deformity, and 9) severe alcoholism. (July 14, 1933)

Law Against Dangerous Habitual Criminals – Allowed for the indefinite imprisonment of “habitual criminals” and castration of sex offenders. (November 24, 1933) Reich Citizenship Law – Established a citizen as “that subject only who is of German or kindred blood and who, through his conduct, shows that he is both desirous and fit to serve the German people and Reich faithfully.” (September 15, 1935) Law for the Protection of German Blood and German Honor – Prohibited marriage between German citizens and those of the Jewish race. (September 15, 1935) Law to Protect the Genetic Health of the German People (Healthy Marriage Law) – Outlawed marriage if one of the partners had a dangerous infectious disease, suffered from mental illness or carried a genetic disease, which might also have called for sterilization. (October 26, 1935)

Just as in the United States, Germany’s forced sterilization policy was met with strong and consistent resistance – from the Roman Catholic Church.

Conscientious Objection In Roman Catholic theology, abstinence is considered the most holy state for human beings. Therefore, the Church historically rejects artificial forms of birth control, including sterilization.

First Executive Order on the Reich Citizenship Law – Clarified the purity of genealogy necessary to qualify as a German citizen. (November 14, 1935).

Adolf Hitler, a Roman Catholic, faced opposition from his own denomination. While Protestants failed to share the Catholic’s public denunciation of sterilization, Lutheran theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer chronicled the frustrating attempts in activating church leaders to respond to the Nazis’ practices.

Beginning in January of 1934 and into 1939, about 350,000-375,000 sterilizations were performed in Germany under the

The Catholic objection prevailed on the compulsory sterilization policy, and a compromise was reached – in the form of a “conscientious objection” provision. Germany exempted Roman Catholic judges from presiding over hereditary health courts and its surgeons from performing sterilizations. In addition, Roman Catholic citizens were charged with caring for their own “defective” family members. C learly C aring

2012 VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

new law – 37% were voluntary, 39% were involuntary, and 29% were non-voluntary (consent granted by guardian or parent).

religious agencies. Such an exemption is the easy route. Once the debate is over and church agencies get their objection provision, will that really be enough?

Cost Savings in Death

This is not the government mandating the singular use of a Bible translation or insisting on payment of church property taxes. This is the government saying all of us as a nation must pay for birth control (abortifacient or otherwise) because a pregnancy is categorized as a preventable and presumably treatable “disease.” It is grouped together with breast exams and colonoscopies.

In 1920 Karl Binding and Alfred Hoche wrote the book, “Allowing the Destruction of Life Unworthy of Life.” The logic for purification of the race justified forced sterilization of those people deemed unworthy to reproduce. That logic progressed to the next level.

The Nazi initiative to actively euthanize so-called “worthless” German citizens was set to begin. It became known by the code, Operation T4, from the street This is the government saying all of us address of the headquarters as a nation must pay for birth control of the German government agency, The Charitable Foundation (abortifacient or otherwise) because a for Curative and Institutional Care. pregnancy is categorized as a preventable

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When Germany invaded and presumably treatable “disease.” Poland on September 1, 1939, the T4 program officially – though It is too easy to wiggle out of this situation subversively – went into effect. After with some sort of conscientious objection only two years, the program officially clause. What about the unborn children who concluded at the cost of at least 70,253 will still die once this provision is enforced? deaths. By then, the war-distracted nation Will Christians still bask in their exemption? became well-entrenched with the notion You and I are not supposed to sin. We that some lives were better not lived. do not take the lives of unborn children. By the end of World War II Germany’s But we are also tasked to care for others logic to purify the race resulted in the and speak up for those who cannot deaths of nearly six million people – speak for themselves. Religious agencies beginning with the infirm and unstable may finagle a way to exempt themselves and progressing towards annihilation from paying for abortifacients as part of of entire classes and races of people. their insurance premiums, but this does What Does This Mean? not mean we win. Quite the contrary. History unfortunately shows that we tend The Roman Catholic Church initially to follow the path of least resistance slowed progress of Germany’s compulsory – to the peril of those left behind. sterilization policy, but once granted exemption status, church officials backed There is a place for government to off. The program then moved forward, respect the religious convictions of serving as a forerunner to Nazi Germany’s people. But if the conscience is only subsequent genocidal practices. To the sensitive about oneself and not about credit of the Roman Catholic Church others, then we fail miserably. there were some agencies that objected If we who know better do not speak to Germany’s eugenics programs. But, up – who will? Don’t settle for the easy why did it take the cruel murder of way out. This provision of the national nearly six million people before these health care plan is flawed in its essence, despicable practices came to a halt? and we need to speak against it. In today’s world, when our government demands even religious agencies to pay for birth control through our health plans – even if some forms of birth control cause abortion, what is our objection? An appeal to allow for a “conscientious objection” is the path presently advocated by most C learly C aring

Rev. Robert Fleischmann is the National Director of Christian Life Resources. He speaks throughout North America on the Biblical approach to various life and family issues and counsels people with God’s Word in correct decision-making.

2012 VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

ALL THINGS SPIRITUAL

Pro-Life Forever by Rev. Mark Braun

Again this Easter, we hear and proclaim our Savior’s victory over death. On the pages of Scripture, we see Him eat broiled fish with His disciples. We hear Him say, “Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have” (Luke 24:39, 42-43). We hear Him say, “See my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27).

St. Paul addressed questions like this for members of congregations that still had doubts about the truth and meaning of the resurrection. We ask questions like this today, not because we doubt but because we long to know more about the new life that awaits us. In creation, God gave animals, plants and human beings the wonderful ability to reproduce and determined that reproduction would occur “according to their kinds” (Genesis 1:21, 24-25). St. Paul enlarged on this point: “What you sow does not come to life unless it dies.” We plant only a seed, but God gives that seed a body. “All flesh is not the same,” he wrote. Men and women have one kind, animals another, birds another (1 Corinthians 15:36-39).

We see Him appear with a new and glorified body. Jesus’ resurrection proves that God the Father has accepted Jesus’ payment for the sins of the world. His resurrection also grants us a glimpse of the plans God has for our resurrection bodies. We often speak of the value of our “eternal souls,” but Jesus’ resurrection also assures that one day we will have glorified, immortal bodies.

Something Like Our Bodies But wheat seeds always come up as wheat plants, and corn seeds always produce corn stalks. In the resurrection God will give us resurrected human bodies – an obvious thought, until we remember that some people think they will be turned into angels after they die, or into stars, or they expect to be reincarnated into another human body on earth, or they look forward to a ghostlike existence parallel to the living on earth.

An Eternal Perspective The ultimate goal for pro-life Christians is more than saving bodies and lives for this life. It also means that we want to preserve lives to enjoy the resurrection and everlasting life.

From St. Paul’s words we learn that our resurrection bodies will be something like the body we have now. Other Scriptures lead us to the same conclusion. Job said, “After my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God. I will see him with my

Will we look the same in the resurrection as we do on earth? Will we all be raised to some “ideal” age? Will we recognize each other? C learly C aring

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own eyes – I, and not another” (Job 19:26-27). Jesus said, “A time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out” (John 5:28). You will still be you. I will still be me. Whatever characterizes our bodies in this life – gender, genetic features – will characterize us in the life to come.

first person to be raised to a new, glorified kind of existence. On Easter Sunday His spirit did not simply return to re-inhabit the same body He had lived in for 33 years. His resurrected body was new and improved, and from His resurrection on He has been living a new kind of life (Romans 6:4).

But our resurrection bodies will only be something like our bodies now. God will not simply re-animate the human shells in which we died with the same sort of life we had before. There were times that was true: when Elijah and Elisha each raised a young man back to life (1 Kings 17:1724; 2 Kings 4:8-36); when Peter brought a woman back from the dead (Acts 9:36-42); when Paul did the same for a man (Acts 20:7-12). Three times in the gospels Jesus raised someone back to life (Mark 5:21-43; Luke 7:11-17; John 11:1-44) – meaning back to this life. All were made alive again but none returned to live a new kind of life. None was changed. All had to die again.

Paul explained: “The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.” A few verses later, he added, “Just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man” (meaning Adam), “so shall we bear the likeness of the man from heaven” (meaning Jesus; 1 Corinthians 15:42-49). Paul put it more simply in his letter to the Philippians: “He will transform our [mortal] bodies so that they will be like his glorious body” (Philippians 3:20). So, our resurrection bodies will be more like the glorified body of Jesus. For us, being pro-life means being pro-life forever.

Just Like Jesus Jesus was not the first person to raise someone from the dead, nor the first to be raised Himself, yet Paul called Jesus and His resurrection “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). Jesus was the

Rev. Mark Braun is a Professor of Theology at Wisconsin Lutheran College, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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2012 VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

T H E T I E T H AT B I N D S

An Ironclad Guarantee by Mr. Tim Snyder

There is no guarantee that you and your family will not face trouble in this life. In fact, it’s pretty certain that at some point you will face hardship of one sort or another. It has been this way ever since sin came into the world. Life Offers No Lasting Security There is no guarantee that your family won’t run into financial hardship. It wouldn’t be a surprise if you, dear reader, have fallen C learly C aring

victim to this challenging economy. At times your cupboard has been bare. Perhaps your clothing is showing wear and tear as you squeeze additional service out of it. For some, homes have been lost. For others, retirement may not be happening as soon as originally planned. There is no guarantee that your family won’t face difficult health issues. Many of us have seen loved ones stricken with a devastating illness. Or it may be that you are the one who suffers. Serious illness can lead to difficult decisions. At times it feels as if our prayers fall on deaf ears as we struggle to make sense of the suffering.

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There is no guarantee that your family will not be persecuted because you are followers of Christ. Your children are ridiculed for rejecting the evolution that’s taught in their classrooms. Neighbors and co-workers ostracize you because you are a Christian. Even family members turn on us. Being in the world – but not of the world – is a test of faith. There is no guarantee that your family won’t be touched by a terrible accident or natural disaster. Today’s headline is a graphic reminder. At least six people lost their lives as a result of tornados that cut a swathe of destruction across our nation’s midsection.

But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:20-22) Our substitute had to be a true man, but a mere man couldn’t pay for the sins of all people for all time. The empty tomb gives clear testimony that the man who died on Calvary’s cross was also true God. It was the God-man, Jesus Christ, whose perfect sacrifice had the infinite value needed to effect our salvation. The prophecy has been fulfilled: “He will swallow up death forever” (Isaiah 25:8).

There is no guarantee that your family won’t have to No matter what troubles and hardships deal with the loss of loved may come there is the assurance that ones. Indeed, death comes God works all things for your good. to all of us as a result of sin. We do not grieve as those who have no hope, but we Sealed by the Resurrection still experience the pain of loss. If anything is guaranteed, it’s the fact that grief and The resurrection guarantees comfort for sorrow are an unavoidable part of life. your family. No matter what troubles and hardships may come there is the assurance God Provides Guaranteed that God works all things for your good. Not Security even death can separate us from His love. With trials come the worry and anxiety The ultimate good is accomplished when that threaten to undermine faith. God uses death to call His child home. We Surely faith would crumble if we were are confident that in Christ all will be made left to deal with it on our own. alive. Who shall separate us from the love of Our lives reflect our resurrection conChrist? Shall trouble or hardship or fidence. As restored children of God our persecution or famine or nakedness or families live to serve Him. It begins at danger or sword? (Romans 8:35) home where we reflect Christ’s love while caring for one another. It extends to others In his response the inspired writer assures as our words and actions bear witness us that nothing can separate us from the to God’s great glory. Our prayer is that love of Christ – not things of this earth, we become His instruments in bringing not supernatural things, not even death. others to Him. We want everyone around No, in all these things we are more us to share in our resurrection joy. than conquerors through him who In this life our families will continue to deal loved us. (Romans 8:37) with hardship and trouble. That’s guaran-

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Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. (Romans 8:34) In our Savior’s resurrection we have an ironclad guarantee that nothing will separate us from Him. The resurrection provides absolute assurance that Jesus’ redemptive work on our behalf was a success. C learly C aring

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But How Can We Be Sure?

teed. Thanks be to God that His Son’s resurrection provides the guarantee that overshadows all others – an ironclad guarantee that we are His for time and for eternity. Mr. Tim Snyder serves as the Media Services Coordinator for Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Tim and his family are members at Christ the Lord congregation in Brookfield, Wisconsin.

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a t e e n ’ s p e r sp e c t i v e

Mother’s Wisdom vs.

Teenager’s Response by Lynn and Sarah Klammer

Mother’s Wisdom #1: Know Who You Are

#3: Be Prepared for Roadblocks

If you don’t have a clear understanding of who you are (including long-term goals in life), then it’s easy to get side-tracked by the drama in your friend’s lives and the events of life in general. It’s not enough to “think” you know. You must be able to articulate what your values are and what you stand for.

Teenager’s Response:

I may already know who I am, but the only way to complete the picture is to experience some drama of my own. I need to make my own mistakes in order to learn. #2: Think Critically

You need to practice ways to say “no thank you” to people and opportunities that don’t match who you are or your goals in life.

Teenager’s Response:

Everyone’s always so concerned with us making the right choices. I can trust God to keep me safe and know He will give me the strength to make the right choices in life. Still, I need you to remember that my choices may not always match up with what you or others want for me. I need to make my own choices. #4: Stick with the Rules

Remember to feel with your heart, but think with your head. You don’t have much life experience yet, so right now it’s easy to get side-tracked by emotional situations. A lot of problems in life can be traced to irrational thinking, so you need to take the emotion out of your thinking when deciding what is right and wrong.

When your decision and “the rule” don’t mesh, stick with the rules. You will never have all the information you need to make a truly-informed decision. Only God knows everything. This means sometimes what seems right to you at the time may not align with what God has taught us. When that happens, you need to overcome your own arrogance and cling to God’s wisdom.

Teenager’s Response:

I’ve seen so many of my friends make bad choices, because they believe they’re in love. They do things I never thought they’d do and often end up regretting the decision to sleep with their “love” or allow him to take advantage of them. They suffer so much by letting their emotions rule them – I don’t want that to be me. I’ll try to be careful, Mom. C learly C aring

I’ve made some poor decisions in life already by turning my back on what God says is right and making my own judgments. I’ve knowingly followed people as they broke the rules, and though I may not have been caught, I never felt right until I’d acknowledged my mistakes and asked for forgiveness. Though trusting God is hard, I know it’s 12 2 0 1 2

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something I need to do if I want to lead a meaningful life that He can be proud of. #5: Forgive Besides it being one of the most important teachings of our faith, forgiveness is a key factor in living a happy life. Especially when you’re young, little things can seem disproportionate to their value. Something that really bothers you today may seem rather foolish ten years from now. Try to forgive more than you condemn when friends, family (or you yourself), do things that are upsetting. Remember that people are more than the sum of the choices they make, and God commands us, if not to understand and accept, to at least forgive.

Teenager’s Response:

Life would be lonely if I never forgave. In grade school someone tripped me – and that meant a new enemy. In middle school a friend ditched me for someone else – and that meant a new traitor. In high school it became petty words, but by then I had learned that feigning ignorance was the best path of action. I forgot about the grade school “enemy” and found that we could now laugh over our mutual foolishness (we’d been glaring at each other for years). I accepted the middle school traitor’s indifference. She never apologized, but I found that once I forgave her I felt so much better. In high school, I enjoyed myself so much more once I learned to ignore those who wanted to bring me down. I wouldn’t have ever been able to find the strength to forgive without God by my side. #6: Keep your Focus on What’s Real Who you are and what’s most important are not outside of yourself… yet that’s what the world will keep trying to tell you.

Teenager’s Response:

It’s hard not to be influenced by the world that surrounds me. Girls my age swear by magazines and TV shows that seem to put more value on what we look like than who we really are. The idea that I am only worth as much as what others think of my body hounds me every time I step outside, every time I walk by a group of designerlabel girls, and especially every time I walk by a group of guys. It’s a feeling C learly C aring

that’s unavoidable, but when I act like myself and do what I think is right, I find that I can often rise above it. #7: Be Where You Are Experience and enjoy the here and now and all that God has planned for you at this point in your life. Don’t be in a hurry to grow up. There’s plenty of time for boyfriends, children, jobs, etc. Don’t hurry along the path.

Teenager’s Response:

That’s one I can certainly agree with. Everyone is so eager to rush along and be the first to fall in love or the first to graduate from college and get a job. While I see the value in getting a jumpstart in life, I find it’s important to fit things in that make these whirlwind years memorable and meaningful. What’s the point of getting married first if it’s not with someone you want to spend the rest of your life with? #8: Don’t Choose Someone Else’s Path Even people who are secure in who they are and able to think critically can find themselves swept along by the common tide of people and events. Expectations of parents, friends, church and community can exert a lot of influence. You don’t have to do what your friends are doing or what most people are doing around you. It can seem a lot easier to just “go with the flow,” but God has a unique purpose for you. It may take some time, but I hope you will find your own unique path.

Teenager’s Response:

I intend to take what God has taught me and use it to build my own bridge in life. I don’t want to be just another face in a sea of people. I will use my faith and strength from God to one day make a difference. I don’t mind getting help along the way, but I intend to reach my destination by my own will and never stray from the path that God has helped me build. Lynn Klammer is a Clinical Psychologist and mother of four. Her 16-year-old daughter Sarah is a high school student who also attends college – bridging the gap between the world of child and adult, and struggling to navigate the sometimes treacherous first steps of independence.

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! e at D e h t SaveSaturday, November 3, 2012 Christian Life Resources National Convention St. Paul Lutheran Church • Slinger, WI

After Convention, join us for a fundraising dinner featuring

About Charlie

For intelligent commentary and analysis of political and daily events, Milwaukee turns to the top-rated Midday with Charlie Sykes. Charlie is Wisconsin’s most provocative, insightful radio talk show host and challenges conventional wisdom to provide listeners with the other side of the story. Charlie’s books include A Nation of Victims, Dumbing Down Our Kids, ProfScam, The Hollow Men, The End of Privacy, 50 Rules Kids Won’t Learn in School and A Nation of Moochers. Charlie also edits WI Interest, a magazine published by the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute. Charlie’s work has appeared in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and other major publications; he has appeared on national television, broadcast from the White House, and spoken at major universities. In addition, Charlie has served Milwaukee as a reporter for the Journal, editor-in-chief of Milwaukee Magazine, lecturer at the University of WisconsinMilwaukee, and special assistant to the county executive. Charlie hosts his weekday program on 620 WTMJ from 8:30am - noon; blogs at “Sykes Writes,” Tweets at @SykesCharlie, and has a weekly television show “Sunday Insight with Charlie Sykes” on TODAY’S TMJ4 Sundays at 10:00am. C learly C aring

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Plan to attend this enriching event that will strengthen you in your faith. Come and learn about life issues and how to speak the truth for life... in love. For more information vist: www.CLREvents.com

special guest Charlie Sykes and the music of Tonic Sol-fa!

About Tonic Sol-fa

Although they are simply four voices and a tambourine, Tonic Sol-fa has spent the past decade on the road carving their niche as the nation’s top vocal group. In that time, this quartet has been named one of the top five “must see” groups in America, has been awarded numerous original song and album awards in pop, gospel and holiday genres, appeared on NBC’s Today Show and in the pages of Newsweek magazine. Outings with Jay Leno, Shawn Colvin, and Garrison Keillor have propelled album sales to more than 2,000,000 copies (mostly sold from the back of their trailer!) and have earned the group thousands of intensely loyal fans. By 2000, the quartet was voted into the Midwest Music Hall of Fame. In 2002, Tonic Sol-fa averaged over 150 shows annually in 48 states. 2007 brought the group’s music to radio stations and retail stores nationwide. In 2009, Tonic Sol-fa’s third public television special was broadcast to over 1,800 stations across the United States, with an international launch to begin this year. And in 2010, Tonic Sol-fa won their first Emmy Award in the “Musical Composition/ Arrangement” category for a song performed in a Toys for Tots PSA. The New York Times describes Tonic Sol-fa’s sound as “A vocal kaleidoscope... unique to the human voice.” Improvisational and passionate music combined with cutting-edge stage presence is the benchmark by which critics and fans agree: nobody does it like Tonic Sol-fa. C learly C aring

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H A P P EN I N G NO W !

News & Views

U.S. Senate Defeats Blunt Amendment to Kill Birth Control Mandate

Birth Control Rule Could Fine $100 Per Employee for Non-Compliance

On March 1, the U.S. Senate narrowly defeated an amendment on a 51-48 vote allowing employers to opt out of insurance coverage mandates for health services they found morally or religiously objectionable. (In February, President Obama announced an “accommodation” for religious employers, saying they would not have to cover birth control, but that insurance companies would provide free birth control, including abortifacients. However, religiously-affiliated organizations would likely still pay for these procedures through their insurance premiums.)

A memo released by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) reveals insurers and employers that do not comply with the birth control coverage rule could face federal fines of $100 per day per employee. The House Energy and Commerce Committee released the memo in early March. “The Secretary [of HHS] may impose a civil monetary penalty on insurance insurers that fail to comply with the [health care reform law’s] requirements such as failing to provide birth control or abortion-inducing drugs. The maximum penalty imposed by the PHSA is $100 per day for each individual with respect to which such a failure occurs.” Opponents say the federal mandate violates the conscience of an individual or organization, regardless of their religious affiliation or organizational purpose, and is in direct violation with the First Amendment.

S OU RC E S : 3/1/12 - LifeNews.com; 3/1/12 - politico.com

Official church body statements regarding the birth control mandate: • Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod www.wels.net/news-events/wels-news • Evangelical Lutheran Synod www.evangelicallutheransynod.org/ synod-office/news/general/hhs

S OU RC E : 3/6/12 - LifeSiteNews.com

Euthanasia Case To Be Heard by British High Court

An article published online Feb. 23rd in the Journal of Medical Ethics calls for the acceptance of “after-birth abortion” – or infanticide. The authors of the article, Dr. Albert Giubilini and Dr. Francesca Minera, contend killing newborns should be “permissible,” since there is no moral difference between abortion and infanticide. They recognize babies – born and unborn – as “potential persons,” rather than “actual persons” whose status is “morally irrelevant.”

Britain’s High Court will allow a case to be heard involving a man who wants to end his life with a doctor’s assistance. It is the first euthanasia case of its kind to be allowed a hearing in a British court. Last January, Tony Nicklinson – disabled from a stroke in 2005 that left him unable to speak or move below his neck – petitioned the court to legally allow a doctor to give him a lethal injection with consent and not face prosecution for murder. The stroke prevents Nicklinson, 57, from committing his own suicide. The government had petitioned the High Court to dismiss the case, arguing that Parliament would have to change the entire law in order to accommodate one individual’s wishes.

S OU RC E : 2/28/12 - telegraph.co.uk

S OU RC E : 3/12/12 - telegraph.co.uk

• Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod www.lcms.org/hhsmandate

Ethics Journal Proposes Acceptance of Infanticide

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71 Assisted Suicides Reported in Oregon in 2011 The annual report released by the Oregon Department of Human Services indicates 71 Oregonians died in 2011 after obtaining lethal medication to end their lives (in 2010, 65 individuals took their lives in Oregon). Nine additional individuals who killed themselves with a doctor-prescribed assistance ended their lives in 2011 used lethal prescriptions from previous years. The total number of 71 deaths in 2011 continues a trend of steady growth in the use of the “Death with Dignity Act” which took effect 14 years ago. The latest report indicates 114 lethal prescriptions were written during the year. S OU RC E : 3/8/12 – Oregon Department Human Services Report

Half of U.S. Births to Women Under 30 are to Single Moms A new report reveals more than half of the births in America are to single women under 30 years. According to Child Trends, most unwed births occur among women in their 20s, not in their teens. Most unwed childbearing occurs among females in their 20s (60.4%) and about 20% to teen moms. Among all ages, 59 percent of mothers in 2009 were married when they had a child. Yet the surge of births outside marriage among younger moms – nearly two of every three children born in the U.S. are to mothers under 30 years – reveals the transformed family unit and a divided societal split since most children are born into low-income single-parent homes.

with a Life Tribute gift to Christian Life Resources.

LIFE Tribute

This gift is in the amount of $ and is given to glorify God through the ministry of Christian Life Resources.

S OU RC E : 2/24/12 - Heritage Foundation Blog

Washington State Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage

This gift is given in tribute to

On February 13, Washington became the 7th U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage when Gov. Chris Gregoire signed legislation that dismantles traditional marriage. The law goes into effect on June 7, 90 days after the law was signed. Washington also became the first state to strike down state law that specifically defined marriage as one man and one woman. The law exempts churches, religious groups and clergy participating in same-sex marriage if it goes against their beliefs.

(honoree’s name)

on the occasion of Send notice of gift to:

S OU RC E : 2/13/12 – LifeSiteNews.com

Advertise in Clearly Caring Receive a first-time ad discount of 15% Visit www.ClearlyCaring.com for rates or call 1-800-729-9535. C learly C aring

Return this form to Christian Life Resources, 3070 Helsan Drive, Richfield, WI 53076 or visit www.clrlifetribute.com 17 2 0 1 2

VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

q & a at conception.” Until recently “conception” and “fertilization” were synonymous. By redefining “conception” as “implantation,” manufacturers and advocates of abortifacient forms of birth control (which prevent implantation of the developing child) claim no abortion occurs since “conception” (by their redefinition) does not occur.

Questions & Answers

Biblically, the Hebrew words convey the truth clearly. The Scriptural teaching in Psalm 51:5 uses a word for “conceived” that closely relates to the passion of the procreative act. The Hebrew word for conception does not permit us to think of life as beginning at a point later than fertilization.

BEGINNING OF LIFE Q: When does life begin? I know that life begins at the time of conception. I say with the Psalmist, “Truly I was sinful from birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived.” But when does conception take place? Is it at the moment the egg is fertilized, or is it when the fertilized egg implants in the womb? What did David mean when he said “conceived”? Can I say with absolute certainty that life begins when the egg is first fertilized before it reaches the womb?

Biologically, the only differences between maturing life at fertilization and at implantation are size and geography. That which grants “personhood” to the implanted embryo is present in the newly-created life at fertilization. That genetically-unique human being continues to mature throughout its life – whether before or after birth. From fertilization to birth, life matures. What changes is geography. In summary, the Hebrew language intimately ties the word “conceive” with the passion of the procreative act. Biology confirms the unique genetic blueprint is already present and completely programmed for human growth when fertilization occurs. Therefore, Scripture supports “conception” to mean life is created and exists at fertilization.

A: In the last 20-30 years, the term “conception” has undergone redefinition in our society. Volumes of medical literature had previously reflected the long-standing teaching that conception and fertilization were the same thing. In recent years, however, some people have sought to redefine conception as implantation of the embryo in the uterine lining. Rather than viewing conception as the point of fertilization they refer to conception as a “process” that begins at fertilization and ends at implantation. This new definition conveniently obscures the fact that some chemicals and devices designed as “birth control” actually prevent the developing life in the embryonic stage from implanting in the uterine lining.

It is more than coincidental those church bodies that reject the truth of the existence of life at fertilization also reject select portions of Scripture – including the denial of the Psalm 51:5 proof passage to explain the existence of life at fertilization. Yes, you can say with absolute certainty that life begins at fertilization. To establish a new starting point for the beginning of life is utilitarian and obscures both theology and biology.

Follow closely what is being done. The pro-life mantra has maintained “life begins Do you have a question you need answered? Send your questions to: Christian Life Resources 3070 Helsan Drive Richfield, WI 53076 or email info@christianliferesources.com C learly C aring

We care about you and want to answer every question you have in a timely manner. However, due to heavy mail volume, we may be unable to respond quickly, so please be patient. Your question, with an answer from Christian Life Resources, may appear in an upcoming issue of Clearly Caring magazine.

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2012 VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

Confirmation

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of confirmation gifts. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers. JusT aRRIV ed!

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CHRISTIAN JEWELRY a. long engraved cross Ring Stainless steel. Sizes: 8-9 # 73166dIc Retail Price: $8.00 sale Price: $5.60 B. God’s Princess Ring Stainless steel. Sizes: 6-9 # cHsP113 Retail Price: $13.00 sale Price: $9.09

d c. live For Him Ring # FGsP114 & d. Tribal cross Ring # FGsP115 Stainless steel. Sizes: 8-12 Retail Price: $13.00 each sale Price: $9.09 each

Mini Confirmation Photo Frame What a great way to congratulate your confirmand or remember that very important day! Frame holds 3" x 2" photograph. Size: 2.5"H x 3.5"W # 10120 Retail Price: $10.00 sale Price: $6.99

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e. Heart with dove and Pearl Gold necklace Heart necklace featuring a dove and a faux pearl. The heart is 0.5" and is on an 18" goldfilled chain. # 10128M Retail Price: $27.00 sale Price: $18.90 F. double Pewter cross necklace Double pewter cross with 21" chain. # 325526dIc Retail Price: $10.00 sale Price: $6.99

“Confirmed in Christ” Filigree Wall Cross Unique and intricate pewter filigree wall cross is accented with ruby stones and a burgundy ribbon. The center hanging is inscribed with the words, “Confirmed in Christ.” This cross measures 5"L X 5.5"W # 10135 Retail Price: $30.00 sale Price: $20.99

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B BIBle coVeRs a. names of Jesus LuxLeather debossed with names of Jesus on the cover arranged to form a cross. Fits Bibles up to 6.625"W x 9.5"D x 2"H. Pen loop, exterior slip pocket, cross zipper pull.. # BK9780758623836 Retail Price: $20.00 sale Price: $13.99 B. serenity Prayer - Two-Tone luxleather Stylish Bible cover feature heat-debossed text and a pen loop. # BK9780758623836 Retail Price: $20.00 sale Price: $13.99

concordia self-study Bible The ideal choice for bringing new vitality to personal or group Bible study, this Bible combines the easyreading of the NIV with Lutheran interpretive notes. Hardcover with jacket # 80 Retail Price: $54.99 sale Price: $38.49 Leather bound # BK9780570005117 Retail Price: $95.99 sale Price: $67.19

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Graduation

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of graduation gifts. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers.

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“For I Know the Plans I Have for You” Masterstone Plaque with Holder Precision sand-carved ceramic tile features the Bible passage Jeremiah 29:11. An iron easel is included. Size: 15"W x 7.5"H # 10167 Retail Price: $42.00 sale Price: $29.40

classic Graduation Photo Frame Remember that important day in your graduate’s life after all of their hard work has paid off. Vertical graduation frame holds 3.5"W x 5"H photograph. # 10134 Retail Price: $10.00 sale Price: $6.99 Jeremiah 29:11 Bible cover Bible cover is debossed with the words of Jeremiah 29:11. Fits Bibles & books up to 6.375"W x 9.5"D x 2"H. Zipped mesh pocket inside & zipped pocket outside. Pen loop. Black lux leather with handle on spine. # caG-BBl355 Retail Price: $19.99 sale Price: $13.99

“Faithful servant” Portfolio Handsome faux leather portfolio features the title “Faithful Servant” and along the bottom displays the Bible passage: “The Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” Deuteronomy 15:10. Includes 8.5"W x 11"H notepad. Size: 9.75"W x 12.5"H # dIc-PoRT10 Retail Price: $35.00 sale Price: $24.49

Choose from 5 styles!

a Be like christ, Philippians 2 Framed Verse From the Life Verse collection by Julie Chen. This framed work quotes verses from Philippians 2:5-11. Size: 14"H x 20"W # 1218TRLV1031 Retail Price: $45.00 sale Price: $31.49 Size: 10"H x 12"W # 810TRLV1031A Retail Price: $23.00 sale Price: $15.99

assorted stainless steel Mugs Each stainless steel mug holds 16 ounces of your favorite beverage. Some are a plastic exterior with a design insert, some are stainless exterior with inspirational printing. # caG-sMuGsMuG026 A. Eagles Wings B. Strength Retail Price: $9.99 each sale Price: $6.99 each

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III

Wedding

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of wedding gifts. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers.

Willow Tree “Promise” Figurine & Frame Set Beautiful set includes both the picture frame featuring a border of roses that holds a 4"W x 6"H photo, and also the Promise figurine. Figurine size: 9"H. Frame size: 9.5"H set # 1345 Retail Price: $44.00 sale Price: $30.79 Figurine only # deM-3871326121 Retail Price: $33.00 sale Price: $23.09

Willow Tree “Promise” Cake Topper Beautiful cake topper has a base allowing to safely and romantically top a wedding (or anniversary) cake. Size: 6"H # deM-26189 Retail Price: $28.00 sale Price: $19.59

*The set is discontinued, but still available in a limited quantity.

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Infinite Love Porcelain cake Topper/statue This wedding accessory would beautifully accent any nuptial celebration. Elegant porcelain figurine features the groom holding the bride. May stand alone or can be used as a cake topper too. Size: 7.25"H # ene-4006706 Retail Price: $25.00 sale Price: $17.50

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Unity Wedding Candle Set Beautiful white porcelain unity candle base bears the words “To love and to cherish, to have and to hold” in the oval, and “Forever and Ever from this day forward” in the background. Includes pillar candle & both tapers. Base is 9" across. Pillar is 10" x 3". Tapers are 10". # 8525 Retail Price: $47.50 sale Price: $33.25

B a. The 5 love languages by Gary chapman New York Times bestselling author guides couples in identifying, understanding, and speaking their spouse’s primary love language. Paperback, 208 pages. # BK9780802473158 Retail Price: $17.99 sale Price: $12.59 B. night light by dr. James & shirley dobson This daily devotional offers personal, practical and Biblical insights. Hardcover, 302 pages. # BK9781414317496 Retail Price: $22.99 sale Price: $16.09

never ending love Frame Photo print of a wedding ring casting a heartshaped shadow on an open Bible. Frame size 12"W x 10.5"H. Photo size 4" x 4" (Includes wall mount and easel stand). #BcRT-80163 Retail Price: $40.00 sale Price: $27.99

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Anniversary

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of anniversary gifts. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers.

Oaks of Righteousness Wall Art Verse: We shall be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor. Isaiah 61:8. Dimensional design. Copper-bronze frame. Size: 12.5"H x 16"W # caR-6772229972 Retail Price: $45.00 sale Price: $31.49

Inspirational alphabet lithograph Inspirational prints using images captured from still lifes and architectural features. By artist Jennifer Blakeley. Choose “PEACE” or “TRUST”. Includes scripture. 11.25"H x 14.25"W. # PGd-alP2 Retail Price: $29.99 sale Price: $20.99 a

“I Simply Love You” Frame with Photo Cutout Beautiful picture of a wooden shutter with a heart cutout. Words read “I simply love you.” Frame insert holds a 3"H x 5"W photo. Measures 10"W x 7"H overall. Includes wall mount & easel stand. # 10368 Retail Price: $30.00 sale Price: $20.99

WALL WORDS a. ”love” Black, 14.5”W x 6.25”H x 0.75”D # ASAP-DW102 Retail Price: $24.95 sale Price: $17.49

B. ”believe” Black, 23"W x 8"H x 0.75"D

# ASAP-DW300 Retail Price: $27.95 sale Price: $19.59

c. ”blessings” Black, 23.5”W x 7.5”H x 0.75”D

# ASAP-DW320 Retail Price: $27.95 sale Price: $19.59

“salvation” Inspirational cross Plaque Solid wood plaque with a textured image of a cross. Cross bears the passage, “The Lord is my Light and my Salvation Psalm 27:1” and quotes four other Bible passages. Size: 11.75"W x 17.75"H.

Willow Tree “anniversary” Figurine This figurine conveys the love between a husband and wife as a love that endures. In both good times and hardships, a husband and wife are there for each other. They encourage one another as they grow old together. # 1374 Retail Price: $33.00 sale Price: $23.09

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Mother’s Day

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of Mother’s Day gifts. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers. JusT ed! R a RIV

WILLOW TREE FIgURINES Retail Price: $31.00 sale Price: $21.69 a. “cherish” This figurine captures the connection between a mother and her unborn child as a miracle waiting to happen. Size: 8.5"H # 1360 B. “Grandmother” Celebrating a grandma’s unique love for her grandchild. Size: 5.5"H # 1358

“Thanks Mom” Pottery Mug Pottery-style mug is crafted of microwave/ dishwasher safe stoneware and features a raised design on front and message on back: “For all the ways you’ve cared for me, For all the love you’ve shared with me, For always being there for me Thank you.” Gift boxed. Holds 16 oz. Size: 4.75"H # 8923 Retail Price: $12.00 sale Price: $8.40

JusT aRRIV ed!

Choose from 4 styles! digital Music Box Beautiful box features a frame to place your own personal photo inside. Choose the music yourself! Size: 8"W x 6"H x 2.5"D. Photo 6.5"W x 4.5"H Retail Price: $23.00 each sale Price: $16.10 each # 633303168322RoM Metallic Silver Wavy # 633303168445RoM Woodgrain Silver Inlay # 633303168520RoM Amber Traditional Frame # 633303168735RoM Woodgrain Traditional

(Choice of 6 songs: I Can Only Imagine, How Great Thou Art, All of Creation, Above All, On Eagle’s Wings, In Christ Alone. Sold separately.)

“I Love You, Mom” Frame with Photo Cutout Touching artwork reads, “Mom If you could hear the good things people say about me when you’re not around, you’d know you did a great job. I love you, Mom!” Photo size 6"W x 4"H. # 717906354204cco Size 14"W x 10"H Retail Price: $40.00 sale Price: $27.99 Size 11"W x 8"H Retail Price: $35.00 sale Price: $24.49

Amazing Woman Cutting Board “Start with faith and honesty, mix in humility, add strength, toss with generosity, pour in love....” A wonderful testament to “amazing” women. Tempered glass is stain and odor resistant with non-slip pads, dishwasher safe. Size: 11.75" x 15.75" # 9517749449 Retail Price: $15.00 sale Price: $10.49

B a. everyday encouragement Book Over 200 daily messages provide food for the faithful, nourishment for the nurturer, wisdom for the woman. Paperback. 215 pages. # BK9781597894357 Retail Price: $9.99 sale Price: $6.99

B. Women of Faith NIV Study Bible Through this unique Bible, women will be able to remove barriers between themselves and God to experience His liberating grace and wonderful love. Softcover, 2,208 pages # BK9780310918844 Retail Price: $24.99 sale Price: $17.49

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Father’s Day

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of Father’s Day gifts. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers.

WILLOW TREE FIgURINES Celebrating the bond of love between fathers and their children. Retail Price: $31.00 sale Price: $21.69 a. “Father and son” Size: 5.5"H # 1353 B. “Father and daughter” Size: 5"H # deM-26031

“Definitely Awesome dad” Pottery Mug Mug is crafted of microwave/dishwasher safe stoneware and features a raised design on front and a message on back. Text: (front) “Definitely Awesome Dad” (back) “You are always there for me in a strong, but caring way, You demonstrate integrity through all you do and say. You’ve been a great example, and I couldn’t be more glad to give you the special title... Definitely Awesome Dad!” Gift boxed. Holds 16 oz. 4.75"H # 8920 Retail Price: $12.00 sale Price: $9.99

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“a son’s Prayer/a Father’s Prayer” Frame with Photo cutout Top words read “A Son’s Prayer - Dear God, Make me the kind of man my daddy is.” Lower words read “A Father’s Prayer - Dear God, Make me the kind of man my son wants me to be.” Size: 9"W x 12"H with 3"W x 5"H Photo # cRT-80122s Retail Price: $35.00 sale Price: $30.00

Men’s christian luke 9:23 Tie 100% polyester “Man of God” urban green cross necktie makes a great gift for that special man in your life! Includes Luke 9:23 passage near the bottom of the tie. This tie uniquely shows a man’s commitment in faith. Sage green. # dIc-TIe21 Retail Price: $9.00 sale Price: $6.29

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“I Love You, Dad” Frame with Photo Cutout Thoughtful artwork reads, “Dad, sometimes I look in the mirror and I see you and it makes me smile, as I reflect on the man that helped make me who I am today. I love you, Dad.” Frame size 10"W x 11"H. Photo size 3"W x 5"H. # 717906354211cco Retail Price: $40.00 sale Price: $38.00

Men’s NOTW “Identicity” Polo Shirt High-end polo with metal snaps and screenprinted neck label. This is a comfortable but edgy looking polo for men. Material: 100% cotton. Fit: Standard. Wash Instructions: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low, do not bleach. # 3541 Retail Price: $30.00 sale Price: $20.99

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VII

Books

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of Christian books. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers.

FREEEN IS

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Baby’s First Bible Baby’s First Bible is the perfect introduction to the Bible. Carefully-selected stories, timeless verses, and delightful rhymes take the child on a journey from creation through the resurrection. Beautifully illustrated, with peek-through windows, this is a book to treasure - bringing the world’s greatest book to life in the heart of every child! # 9780784704608sTl Retail Price: $14.99 sale Price: $10.49

My First Bible storybook This serves as a great introduction to God’s wonderful Word for children and families to treasure. The fun colorful illustrations make this a visuallyappealing presentation for children as young as 2 years of age. Hardback, 384 pages. # BK9780758627292 Retail Price: $12.99 sale Price: $9.09

“The answers Book for Kids” series by Ken Ham Answers are important. If children aren’t given answers to their questions about the Bible and the history it reveals, they cannot defend their faith against a fallen world. The new Answers Book for Kids series is a unique collection from Ken Ham and the creative team at Answers in Genesis. Retail Price: $7.99 each sale Price: $5.59 each a. Volume 1: creation # BK9780890515266 B. Volume 2: dinosaurs # BK9780890515273 c. Volume 3: God and the Bible # BK9780890515259 d. Volume 4: sin and salvation # BK9780890515280

VIII

My First Bible This book is a collection of 114 Bible stories that are especially engaging for young, inquisitive minds. Hardback, 256 pages. # BK9780758609106 Retail Price: $13.99 sale Price: $9.79

The story Bible This treasure will be a great help to lead little ones to understand the Sacred Scriptures. Features discussion questions, learning activities, and prayers. These bring each story to life, making a meaningful and lasting impression on children from ages 3 to 8. # BK9780758619020 Retail Price: $29.99 sale Price: $19.99

god’s Word for Life Bible God’s Word for Life is a one-of-a-kind resource using the awesome power of God’s Word in clear, natural English. It serves as a valuable resource for pastors, laypeople, teachers and students as they face life issues in the light of God’s Word. # 83 Retail Price: $19.99 sale Price: $13.99

www.FamilyTG.com • 1-800-478-2719

Free COPY OF #1 new york times BeSTSeLLer “HeAven IS FOr reAL” Catalog Sale ends June 30

Divine Design: 40 Days of Spiritual Makeover For individuals and small groups, this eight-week Bible study contains true stories and encouragement that will change you, transform you, and make you new! Paperback, 221 pages. # BK9780758623836 Retail Price: $12.99 Sale Price: $9.09

“A Time to Laugh A Time to Cry” by Bonnie Wasser Using Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 as a touchstone, the author shares her insights about rearing 25 children from varying backgrounds in a Christian home. Through her recollections she now hopes to show how reassuring truth and unbelievable blessing can be found in every situation. Paperback, 104 pages.

# BK9781427631060 Retail Price: $9.99 Sale Price: $6.99

“Above the Line” Series by Karen Kingsbury This series by New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury features exciting stories about the high-powered world of filmmaking. Retail Price: $16.99 each Sale Price: $11.89 each A. Take One # BK9780310266167 B. Take Two # BK9780310266174 C. Take Three # BK9780310266266 D. Take Four # BK9780310266273 *Visit www.FamilyTG.com for more Kingbury books. A

B “Love Comes Softly” Series by Janette Oke This series follows the lives of one family through three generations letting the reader see the impact that Christian love has on relationships despite adversity and hardship. Reading level: ages 7-12. Paperback. Retail Price: $59.99 each Sale Price: $41.99 each A. Books 1-4 # BK9780764290954 B. Books 5-8 # BK9780764291005 *Visit www.FamilyTG.com for more Oke books.

A. “Facing Your Giants” by Max Lucado For those who know the sound of a Goliath, David gives this reminder: Focus on giants – you stumble. Focus on God – your giants tumble. If you’re ready to face your giants, let his story inspire you. The same God who helped him will help you. Hardback, 231 pages. # BK9780849901812 Retail Price: $24.99 Sale Price: $17.49 *Visit www.FamilyTG.com for more Lucado books.

“Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young This book contains devotions for every day of the year, written by the author from Jesus’ point of view, thus the title “Jesus Calling.” Young’s book began as handwritten journaling and changed from monologue to dialog. # BK9781591451884 Retail Price: $14.99 Sale Price: $10.49

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Spring & Summer

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for over 2,000 different items. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers.

WILLOW TREE FIgURINES Size: 5.5"H. Retail Price: $17.50 sale Price: $12.29 a. “surrounded by love” # deM-26233 A beautiful symbol to remind someone of the love of family and friends that encircles them. B. “Forget-Me-not” # deM-3871309452 This figurine represents timeless friendship and love that spans any distance. c. “angel of sunshine” # deM-26249 This piece is for the people who enrich your life every day. a

MeTal GaRden sTaKes Handcrafted with a distressed bronze effect and when exposed to the weather will develop a beautiful patina finish. Retail Price: $13.75 each sale Price: $9.75 each a. ”bloom” # asaP-dMGs106 4.25" x 10.5" x 0.0625" B. ”dragonfly” # ASAP-DMgS109 1.5” x 10.5” x 0.0625” c. ”welcome” # asaP-dMGs103 6" x 10.5" x 0.0625" d. ”relax” # asaP-dMGs102 3.75" x 10.5" x 0.0625" d

STAINED gLASS SWITCHABLES Each stained glass piece hangs beautifully on a Switchables rotating nightlight fixture or on a window suction cup as a suncatcher. Fixture and suction cup sold separately. A. Cross # SWI-SW072 Express your faith with this lovely piece! Retail Price: $13.00 sale Price: $8.99

B. Baseball diamond # 10315 Perfect for the baseball player or fan! Retail Price: $14.00 sale Price: $9.80

c. Golf # 10312 Perfect for the golf lover! Retail Price: $10.00 sale Price: $6.99

D. Switchables Rotating Nightlight Fixture # SWI-SW000R This plug-in fixture can be used with stained-glass Switchables covers to suit the season or your whim. The unit features a metal hook so you can change the covers in seconds. Unit turns 360 degrees. Easy on/off switch. Retail Price: $6.00 sale Price: $4.20 B a

Choose from 6 styles!

Assorted Inspirational Water Bottles Each of these water bottles is BPA-free, holds 23 ounces, and has a pull-out black nozzle. # CAg-WBT Retail Price: $4.99 sale Price: $3.49 Available styles: Blue Strength, Charcoal Eagles Wings, Purple Grace, Green Hope, Silver John 3:16, Pink Joy

assorted large Tote Bag Generously-sized nylon tote bags with adjustable shoulder strap. Each bag measures 13"W x 19"H. # GoF-nT0 Retail Price: $3.95 sale Price: $2.79 a. “Peace” B. “Grow in Faith” c. “Believe”

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Children

Visit www.FamilyTG.com for a full selection of items for children. Every purchase supports New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers. JusT eD! r a rIv

ultrasound Photo Frame Adorable ceramic green unisex frame for placing that special ultrasound picture. Frame measures 5"H x 6"W overall, and holds a 4.125"W x 3.25"H ultrasound image. Frame reads “Our little angel”; heart charm on bow reads “Love”. Easel back. # 4554420089ene Retail Price: $15.00 sale Price: $10.50

Lamb PLush securITy bLankeT Super-soft fabric on one side of this adorable plush baby security blanket, satin on the other. Lamb face plush has a rattle inside. Front embroidery reads, “The LORD is my Shepherd. Psalm 23.” Size: 15" x 15". 100% polyester. Machine washable. Retail Price: $13.99 sale Price: $9.80 a. “blue” # Gem850917002570 b. “Pink” # Gem850917002563 also available in “White” # Gem96113001160

JusT arrIv eD! righteous racers - Toy cars What better way to teach your child lessons of faith than to give him a favorite toy that reminds him of those lessons. Die-cast car sets feature colorful cars covered with clever faith-affirming content. # TOys103 Retail Price: $10.00 sale Price: $7.00

TODDLer T-shIrTs Made of 100% preshrunk cotton. Sizes: 3T, 4T, 5T Retail Price: $13.00 each sale Price: $8.99 each a. “Dinosaurs” # ker-TssaDnO Adorable t-shirt exclaims, “On the 6th day, God created DINOSAURS! Genesis 1:24.” b. “yes I am a Princess” # ker-kDZ1092 Pretty t-shirt proclaims, “Yes I am a Princess, My Father is the King of Kings! John 1:12.”

JusT eD! arrIv

my Faithful Friends - Toy Puppies Three adorable Faithful Friends: Joy, Charity, and Courage! This playset packs three highly-detailed puppies, each featuring powerful content from the Scriptures! # TOys101 Retail Price: $10.00 sale Price: $7.00

Praise Ponies Praise Ponies are named for positive traits from the Bible, and the tags feature a message from each pony and a memory verse. # TOys102 Retail Price: $10.00 each sale Price: $7.00 each a. “hope” - blue b. “Love” - Pink c. “Faith” - Purple

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LAST ! CE CHAN

CARVED WOOD PLAQUES A. The Shepherd’s Psalm Wood Plaque This beautiful piece of artwork features Psalm 23. Size: 30"H x 25"W # 8829 Retail Price: $229.99 CLOSEOUT PRICE: $135.00 B. “A Marriage Prayer” Carved Cherry Wood Plaque This classic plaque is great for any decor. Its timeless oval shape as well as its meaningful content, makes this collection perfect for a master bedroom or as an inspirational wedding/ anniversary gift. Crafted from beautiful cherry wood. Size: 26"H x 16"W # 8828 Retail Price: $169.99 CLOSEOUT PRICE: $95.00 C. “The Greatest is Love” Family and Friends Photo Frame Beautifully-made, unique carved wooden photo frame features the words, “The Greatest is Love.” Holds 13 photographs in various sizes. Size: 23"H x 35"W # 8844 Retail Price: $229.99 CLOSEOUT PRICE: $135.00

1. Online at www.FamilyTG.com 2. Phone at 1-800-478-2719 Weekdays 9:00AM-4:30PM CST 3. Send in order form below 4. In our retail store located at 3070 Helsan Drive, Richfield, WI 53076 For each separate order of $75 or more get a FREE copy of the #1 New York Times Bestseller “Heaven is for Real” CaTaLOg SaLE EnDS JUnE 30 • LImITED QUanTITIES avaILabLE

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2011 IN REVIEW The mission of Christian Life Resources is to use life and family issues as bridges to convey the love of God and to share the message of salvation through Christ. In 2011 we carried out our mission as follows: At the National Office: • We produced and mailed two issues of Clearly Caring – Home Edition to more than 32,000 homes each. • We produced an additional online-version-only issue of Clearly Caring – Home Edition. • We drop-shipped more than 136,000 copies of Clearly Caring – Parish Edition to more than 900 congregations. • We introduced a completely-new website at www.ChristianLifeResources.com • We authored a new Abortion Resolution which was adopted by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod in its summer convention. • The national director of Christian Life Resources provided written responses to 73 lifeand family-related questions submitted through the CLR website or submitted through the WELS Q & A forum. • The national director presented or preached on behalf of Christian Life Resources to 43 different congregations, organizations or classes throughout the United States. • In early November, 60 representatives of Christian Life Resources attended a 7-hour Affiliate Leaders Convocation for training and education. • Also in early November approximately 200 people attended the annual CLR National Convention for a full day of education on life issues and fellowship. At New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers: • In mid-2011 we welcomed Heidi and Linda Olson as the staff at New Beginnings. Through most of the year the home was fully occupied with six mothers and their babies. • Resident Tara and her baby came to the national convention with Heidi, the Home Manager, to present her story to the attendees. CLR Affiliates: Sixteen CLR affiliates operate 20 pregnancy resource and life centers in seven U.S. states. The following is a summary of statistics for those centers: • Pregnancy Tested Clients = 792 • Clients Receiving Practical Assistance = 5,425 • Clients Receiving Non-Visit or Other Counseling = 394 • Number of Clients Considering Themselves Christian = 2,812 • Number of Clients Affiliated with a Non-Christian Religion = 403 • Number of Clients Listing No Religious Affiliation = 682 • Clients Receiving Presentation on God’s love = 3,517 • Clients Receiving Presentation on Sin and Grace = 1,825 • Clients Who Were Taught about Baptism = 874 • Clients Given a Free Bible = 226 • Baby Was Baptized = 81 • Number Who Wanted Abortion Before Counseling = 65 • Number Who Still Wanted Abortion After Counseling = 20 C learly C aring

31 2 0 1 2

VOLUME 32 / NUMBER 1

OUR MISSION The mission of Christian Life

Return Service Requested

Clearly Caring – Home Edition

3070 Helsan Drive Richfield, WI 53076-9582

Christian Life Resources

Clearly Caring

Resources (CLR) is to use life and family issues as bridges to convey the love of God and to share the message of salvation through Christ.

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. - Romans 1:18

The official publication of Christian Life Resources, Inc. Publisher: Christian Life Resources, Inc. 3070 Helsan Drive Richfield, WI 53076-9582 (800) 729-9535 email: contact@ChristianLifeResources.com websites: www.ClearlyCaring.com www.ChristianLifeResources.com ISSN:1549-2508 Copyright © 2012 Christian Life Resources All rights reserved. Unless otherwise noted as restricted, permission is granted to reprint articles from Clearly Caring – Home Edition with credit line indicating source, issue, and author if indicated. To place paid advertising in Clearly Caring – Home Edition please contact the Editor or visit our website at www.ClearlyCaring.com/?advertise.php for rate information.

Directors–Christian Life Resources:

Visit CLR’s redesigned Website! www.ChristianLifeResources.com just got a facelift! Visit the site today for the latest news on life and family issues. Stay current with events and announcements from Christian Life Resources.

www.ChristianLifeResources.com

Rev. Aaron Mueller (Chairman) Pastor, Tucson, AZ Rev. David Hein (Vice Chairman/Spiritual Advisor) Pastor, Slinger, WI Mr. Keith Kriewall (Secretary) Software Developer, Federal Way, WA Mr. Scott Menke (Treasurer) Controller, Racine, WI Mr. Matt Corrigan Sales Representative, Mission Viejo, CA Mr. James Froelker Retired, Gerald, MO Rev. Joel Gerlach Retired, Wauwatosa, WI Mr. Ronald Przybyla Retired, West Bend, WI New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers, a separate legal entity affiliated with CLR, supports single mothers in a residential setting who have decided to carry their babies to term while teaching them how to include Jesus in their lives.

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The Christians Concerned for Life Foundation is a separate legal entity affiliated with CLR, established to sponsor special life and family affirming projects that reflect Biblical principles in protecting human life and ministering to souls. Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used in permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.