April 2017
Stay Focused on Your Health
COMPLIMENTARY
LAUGH with Chonda Pierce
Cold Case Christianity:
DATELINE’S
J. Warner Wallace
THE MOST IMPORTANT CASE OF YOUR LIFE
Open hearts can open doors. When you open your heart and your home to a foster child, you open a door to a brighter future. A door that makes a difference in the life of a child. A door that shows they matter to someone. If you have enough room in your heart for a child
What would you say if someone asked you,
“Why are you a Christian? ” Would your answer boil down to your upbringing or a personal experience? Christianity can be defended evidentially, but most of us aren’t ready to do so. In Forensic Faith, detective J. Warner Wallace provides you with the strategies and tools necessary to make the case.
who desperately needs a loving home, please consider becoming a foster parent.
J. Warner Wallace is a cold-case homicide detective who has been featured on Dateline, FOX News, and Court TV. A former atheist, he is the author of Cold-Case Christianity and God’s Crime Scene. Wallace has a master’s degree in theology and lives in California with his wife and four children.
Available in print and digital wherever books are sold, or call David C Cook at 800.323.7543
youthvillages.org/foster 1-888-MY-YVKID
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www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
OUR MISSION Publisher: Robert Stringfellow • 615-815-8765 publisher@christianfamilynashville.com Editor: Raymonda Jaggers Contributing Writers: Amber Smith Dash Tammy Daughtry Kingsley East Courtney Keen Christy Kohnle Scott Lehman Jason Lindsey Mandi Marlin Ronnie McBrayer Sheila Moss
Frank Odrobina Kenneth Oosting, PhD Dave Ramsey Stephen Rowland Mark Simpson Pam Stephens Aron Strong Laurie Stroud
Production and Art Direction: Wendy Satterwhite Website Development, Digital Marketing & SEO Services: www.BowenDigital.com Social Media: Kylie Odrobina Printer: Franklin Web Printing Sales & Marketing: Robert Stringfellow Cover Photo Credit: Aaron Regnier
Nashville Christian Family ® exists to provide Christians and the community at large with ways to strengthen and grow as a part of the Middle Tennessee Christian Family. This local monthly publication is designed to promote positive living by sharing with readers of all ages relevant and timely news and information related to health, faith, parenting, youth, finances, Christian entertainment, missions, church leaders, and much more.
FROM THE PUBLISHER Gospel of Luke: Chapter 23 The Death of Jesus
44 “It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three, because the sun's light failed. The curtain of the sanctuary was split down the middle. And Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into Your hands I entrust My spirit. " Saying this, He breathed His last. When the centurion saw what happened, he began to glorify God, saying, "This man really was righteous!" All the crowds that had gathered for this spectacle, when they saw what had taken place, went home, striking their chests. 49 But all who knew Him, including the women who had followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.”
The Burial of Jesus Nashville Christian Family is published monthly by Clarion Concepts, P.O. Box 463, Spring Hill, TN 37174. The phone number is 615-815-8765. E-mail ncfpublication@gmail.com. Reproduction of any part of Nashville Christian Family without permission of the Publisher is prohibited. Distribution of this paper does not constitute and endorsement of information, products or services. Views expressed in Nashville Christian Family do not necessarily represent those of the Publisher. Every effort has been made by Nashville Christian Family staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2017 by The Christian Family Publication, Inc. Unless otherwise noted, scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Use by permission of International Bible Society. Circulation and Distribution: Nashville Christian Family is free and available at targeted, high traffic locations throughout the Nashville Metro Area and surrounding counties, Williamson, Wilson, Sumner, Rutherford and Maury. 10,000 copies are printed each month. Copies are available by subscription, $25 for one year (12 issues). To subscribe, e-mail ncfpublication@gmail.com
– Nashville Christian Family is a part of The Christian Family Publication, Inc. celebrating 17 years of Good News! Visit www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
50 “There was a good and righteous man named Joseph, a member of the Sanhedrin, who had not agreed with their plan and action. He was from Arimathea, a Judean town, and was looking forward to the kingdom of God. He approached Pilate and asked for Jesus' body Taking it down, he wrapped it in fine linen and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had ever been placed. It was preparation day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. The women who had come with Him from Galilee followed along and observed the tomb and how His body was placed. 56 Then they returned and prepared spices and perfumes. And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.”
Chapter 24
Resurrection Morning
1 “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb. They went in but did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothes. So the women were terrified and bowed down to the ground. "Why are you looking for the living among the dead?" asked the men. "He is not here, but He has been resurrected! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7saying, 'The Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and rise on the third day' ?" And they remembered His words. Returning from the tomb, they reported all these things to the Eleven and to all the rest. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them were telling the apostles these things. But these words seemed like nonsense to them, and they did not believe the women.12 Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. When he stooped to look in, he saw only the linen cloths. So he went home, amazed at what had happened.”* Please take time to worship with your family in the true meaning and spirit of Easter.
HALLELUJAH, HE ROSE FROM THE GRAVE FOR OUR SALVATION AND ETERNAL LIFE!
Publisher, 615-815-8765 publisher@christianfamilynashville.com
*Above Scripture taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible
April 2017
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April 2017
CONTENTS Volume 8, Number 6
DEPARTMENTS 3 From the Publisher 6 Faith Under Fire Be Careful When Dealing With Others
ON THE COVER
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Called the “Evidence Whisperer” by the television crew at Dateline, best-selling author and apologist J. Warner Wallace shares how his detective skills took him from atheist to believer. See page 14. 11
Staying Focused On Your Health Goals
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Chonda Pierce: Enough (part 1)
6 Teachable Moments Have You Seen a Miracle? 11 Church Leaders
Are You In Ministry? What Role Does Your Ego Play?
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11 Healthy Living Help In Staying Focused On Your Health Goals
12 Faith At Work
Loving Help Someone To Repent and Have A Genuine New Life In Christ
12 In His Grip
FEATURES 7
Local Automobile Dealer is Recognized For Excellence
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You Are Welcome to Attend This Annual Easter Sunrise Service
In His Grip Golf Launches TV Show
17 Parent With Purpose Tips For Divorced Parents With Children
17 Music Notes “Arise My Love”
18 Miracle Moments Is A Spark In the Air At Your Church?
NEXT ISSUE Learn About Rescue 1 Globals’ Work to Stop Human Trafficking
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18 Money Matters From the Desk of Dave Ramsey
21 Kids Korner
Kids Get Connected With the Bible Using Simple Science Experiments
21 Hassle Free Zone So You Think Your Floor Is Clean?
23 Body & Soul We All Want Others To Like Us
24 Mission Makers Hometown Hero
Springtime Tips And MUCH MORE!
25 God’s Plan For Salvation and Eternal Life
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26 Calendar 26 About Our Advertisers
April 2017
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F aith u N de r F i r e No one thinks of themselves as callous, indifferent, or antagonistic. At least not most of us. It’s more that we are preoccupied with whatever has captured our attention. We find ourselves in complete alignment with a movement, an idea, or judgment. We get swept up, caught in the grip of passion, superiority, and self-righteousness. We don’t have time to slow down, dig deep, think hard, and pray. So, we fall into sin, like a hug pit we never saw coming. We don’t even realize we fell in. Paul was not one to be shy in expressing his beliefs. For example, one group of religious leaders argued against the resurrection of the dead. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul jumps fully in their political theology debate, soundly displaying the importance of Christ’s resurrection. But he didn’t stop with a sound theological argument. He was concerned how these believers, caught up in the attitudes and behaviors of others, were acting. The world was watching, judging them and God by their responses. Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.” Come to your senses and stop sinning, for some people are ignorant about God. I say this to your shame. (1 Corinthians 15:33-34) How are you responding to the people around you, in person and on social media regarding the current political issues in our nation? There’s never been a more appropriate time for this message than right now. From social causes to personal attacks, many of us are operating far from our foundation of faith. When we live out of contact with the spirit of Christ, we fall into sin. We get caught up in the emotion and energy surrounding us, letting it direct us as it wills, filling us with anger, fear, outrage, depression, and anxiety. When will we learn?
Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world. (1 Peter 2:11-12) Our life is not based on the things of this world. We are strangers in a strange land. The world fights to establish a foundation that can define right and wrong, justice and injustice. Our foundation has existed since the creation of the world. Jesus did not attack the lost. He didn’t expect them to know what He knew nor do what He did. But he reached out to them anyway. He called them to follow Him, to discover an unending love, an unshakeable security, and a life of blessing only found through sacrifice. Paul’s words ring strongly right now. “Come to your senses and stop sinning, for some people are ignorant about God.” (v34). It’s time to change our allegiance to God our Father, represent His interests in this world, and be a living light to a world lost in darkness. May your first priority be to represent Christ in all things to all people, for those lost in pain and fear around you cannot find peace and truth without you. — Aron Strong, LMFT, was a pastor for more than a decade before transitioning to professional counseling. He is the director of Pathways Counseling in Murfreesboro and writes daily devotionals at www.biblebreakfast.club. He has been married for nearly 20 years, has a young son, two dogs and two cats.
t eachable m om e Nts
Palm Sunday: An Occasion To Deal With Our Disillusionment John 12:16 "These things His disciples did not understand at the first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered." On Palm Sunday, the multitudes who followed Christ at the time danced and shouted for joy, crying “Hosanna, blessed is the coming king!” for all the miracles they had seen Him perform. (Luke 19:37) However, in just one chapter before (18:31-33) He had uttered something that most didn't want to hear anything about. It was a description of His upcoming arrest, trial and crucifixion, something that would disillusion them all. Sure enough, in less than a week, all that He had uttered would come to pass, but the large majority of His followers on this particular Sunday were not followers by the following Friday. These Hosanna-crying multitudes would now be heard crying “Crucify!” Have you seen a miracle? I have. I have seen many in my 42 years of preaching the Gospel as a pastor and missionary. Yet I have to ask: is it enough to follow Him because of some miracle He has done? Or will it take something more? While He was speaking of His upcoming death, no one wanted to listen. Yet it was His finished work of death and resurrection and ascension that would open to them a realm of eternal, glorious, redeemed and reconcilcd life—even a greater miracle than what they had seen so far.
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This is a Sunday to commemorate those times in which we think one thing is going to happen, that God is going to do one thing, and then we have to face the crisis that comes when God does not perform as we expected. Have you ever experienced a major disillusionment with the Lord? I have, and I have seen many others do so, and for many of them, their faith did not hold up. Many no longer walk with Him after this disillusioning season. In Luke 24:21, two of His followers were going home. Their confession? "We were hoping that it was He . . . " They were right; it was Him! He was the Hope! They just didn't get it yet. We seldom do get it all. Naaman was the same way. He said, when disillusioned about God’s instructions for his miraculous healing, "Before, I thought. Now, I know." Now he has been healed; now he understands! Job, Elijah, David, Moses and many others went through major disillusionments on the road to understanding God and His ways. It is His way: like it or not. Your faith will be tested and beaten by winds and waves. Never forget: He prays for you that your faith may not fail. Learn to cry Hosanna even when you are bewildered by your current situation. — Mark Simpson
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
b u s i N e s s t oday
Dealer of the Year, ALL BECAUSE OF YOU! Hey neighbors! Hyundai of Cool Springs recently received the Dealer of the Year Award from DealerRater, the most trusted automotive dealer review site on the internet. Every year, DealerRater acknowledges a specific number of automotive retailers in North America for exemplary customer satisfaction according to customer reviews posted on DealerRater’s website. The content of the reviews determines what DealerRater calls a power score and based upon feedback from loyal customers like you, let me tell you, WE’VE GOT THE POWER! Now just so you know DealerRater doesn’t just hand these awards out to any dealer. In order to even be considered a dealer must meet certain strict criteria including having a minimum of 25 reviews on DealerRater per calendar year and average quarterly minimum DealerRater star rating of 4.0 with 5.0 as the highest possible rating. Hyundai of Cool Springs easily met these conditions and we’ve got the award to show for it. There you have it, neighbors. That’s the reason I’m walking around with a slightly swelled head these days
but honestly, I can’t help it. When I see all the hard work and tireless effort that the team puts in every day in order to provide the best automotive experience, truly I feel blessed and yes, just a bit proud. However, I know just as it is written in Proverbs 16: that “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before stumbling.” So I want to assure everyone out there that just because we received this award doesn’t mean that we got too big for our britches and are going to coast on our reputation. On the contrary, the Dealer of the Year award has only encouraged to see how we can do an even better job to make sure our customers get the total package. That means offering you the selection you desire, the deals you demand and the service you deserve. Finally, I just want to thank all of our valued customers who made this award possible. DealerRater gave us the award but it really came from you. See ya’, neighbors! — Frank Odrobina, Owner
April 2017
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F eatu r e
Chonda Pierce:
ENOUGH The daughter of a South Carolina preacher, Chonda says, “I come straight from the world of wooden pews and hell-fire preaching. Some of it probably did a little damage—that’s where I get my warped sense of humor—but most of those days gave me solid roots. You learn a lot from your past—what to weed through and throw out and what to hold on to forever.” She quickly discovered that her story of pain is shared by most everyone honest enough and reflective enough to look at it—those who cry out for help,
How does a comedian, especially a southern woman often dubbed “Queen of Clean,” become the number one selling female comedian in history? And an Emmy-nominee? And write eight books? And produce 10 DVDs, five of them certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying sales of more than 50,000 units; and three certified Platinum, signifying sales of more than 100,000 units? And perform over 1400 live concerts, often showcasing not only her wit but her incredible piano and vocal talents? How does that happen to a queen of clean in a secular USA culture that doesn’t award that level of success to clean? Chonda Pierce would be the first to tell you, “It Ain’t Prettyville.” For her, vulnerability mixed with wit born out of devastation, loss, and depression has fed what makes her who she is today. She has appeared on Entertainment Tonight, The View, and The Fox News Channel. Still, how does this unbelievable level of success happen?
A LONG WAY HERE
Chonda has been entertaining audiences for over 20 years as a stand-up comedian and television host, not to mention pouring hours into writing, speaking, performing, and advocating—all a winning combination for her southern charm (some would say southern drawl) and her quick wit. The beginnings?
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both sisters by the time I was 18. Our father was a very abusive man. I had a painful childhood, and I look back now and see the anger in my brain that could be the catalyst of all of this [depression]. It was something that needed to get out and needed to get dealt with. I think we keep depression secret too much because we’re embarrassed. And I think that’s one of the things that deters our healing and makes us isolate even more because we’re afraid of what someone in the church world is going to say to us when they find out that we’re depressed. We shoot our wounded, in other words, and we have a bad history of that. So, we’re all very afraid to step out. I was really surprised that the stigma was still there, that people remain that uneducated about this situation. The greatest thing that depression did for me is help me learn to love God because of who He is, not because of how He makes me feel, and it has really taught me unconditional love for God. So, that idea of unconditional love goes both ways. My self gets in the way of me all the time. And so, I think that’s where we really all struggle— because we’re not Jesus.” Some people abandoned Chonda during her darkest days, but many others began seeking her out because of her openness about depression, another opportunity for sharing each other’s burdens.
Chonda Pierce: Enough One Night Only Tuesday, April 25, 2017 7:00 PM To find a theater, visit www.fathomevents.com/events/ chonda-pierce-enough Go to www.christianfamilynashville.com answers, and healing in every stage of life. Recently she has experienced the devastating loss of her mother and the tragedy of her husband’s battle with alcoholism followed by his death, in addition to having an estranged daughter—pain, pain, pain—all in a three-year span. Speaking with Dr. Michael Friedman, Chonda reveals deep struggles through dark depression: “I had lost
to read the remainder of Chonda’s story or stay tuned, it will appear in next month’s issue. — Sheila Moss, author of Interrupting Women and Living to Matter—Mothers, Singles, and the Weary and Broken: Ten Conversations with Jesus
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
F eatu r e
Easter Sunrise Service The one thing that makes me really appreciate spring is that Easter is here! It’s hard to believe that Christmas has passed and the earth is awakening from the cold and snowy season. Easter is a time for family and renewal. Our staff would like to cordially invite you to attend our annual Easter Sunrise Service. This year the service will be on Sunday, April 16 at 7:00 AM. This service has been held at Williamson Memorial Gardens for over forty years. There will be special music and local ministers from various denominations offering words of encouragement. The
service typically lasts forty five minutes so that you will be able to attend your regular church’s Easter Service. This is a time that families feel closeness to those that have gone before them and to remember loved ones. If you attended a service in the past, you know that it is a heartfelt and uplifting time to help during the Easter season. It will be held outside in our cemetery unless there is inclement weather. If that happens, the service is moved into the chapel of the funeral home. Regardless if your loved one is here at our
cemetery or not, we want you to feel welcome to come and join in this Easter Sunrise Service tradition. You will not want to miss this community wide event. Please visit with our family and the staff of both of our funeral homes, Williamson Memorial and Spring Hill Memorial. There will be coffee and doughnuts served before and a after the service. — The Stephens Family
“Treasure every single moment in life Annual Easter Sunrise Service
April 16 7:00 am
Williamson Memorial Gardens
Williamson Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services 3009 Columbia Pike Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 794-2289 www.williamsonmemorial.com Plan ahead: www.preplanning.info/williamsonmemorial
Spring Hill Memorial Park, Funeral Home and Cremation Services 5239 Main St. Spring Hill, TN 37174 (931) 486-0059 www.springhill-memorial.com Plan ahead: www.preplanning.info/springhillmemorial
“Both are family owned and operated”
We are here to serve your family and honor the treasured memories of your loved one.” April 2017
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c h u rch l eade r s
h ealthy l iVi Ng 7 Ways To Stay On Track With Your Health Goals
At the risk of being provocative, I’d like to ask you a question. Assuming you’re not reading this out loud, no one else will know your answer, so be honest with yourself. What role does your ego play in your ministry? You may be thinking, “I don’t have a big ego. I devote my life to the Lord and helping others.” There are, of course, rock star ministry leaders out there, who are in it for recognition and fame. But, in my experience, these big-ego driven types are few and far between. What’s far more common than a big ego in ministry circles is a self-protecting one.
Let's be honest. Sometimes you just don't feel like eating healthy or working out after a long day. But there's no denying it: consistency is an essential part of changing old behaviors and creating healthier habits. After all, new habits don't form overnight—just as those old ones didn't either. Use these seven tips to help you keep putting one foot in front of the other on your journey to a healthier you. 1. Remember your motivation. What specifically made you embark on this whole journey in the first place? Do you remember the day you set your goal? What did you envision? Sometimes we need to reflect back in order to move forward. 2. Keep visible signs of progress. Tracking your progress (whether with a good ole pen and paper or a smartphone app) helps you stay consistent with your new healthy habits. Being able to see the steps you've taken, victories achieved, and obstacles overcome also pushes you mentally to keep going.
Does any of this sound familiar? • I have to maintain a facade that all is well, even when I’m hurting. • I can’t talk to anyone about my needs because I’m supposed to have it all together. • I can’t admit my fears because God is supposed to be enough. • I have to keep up the appearance of a perfect family, ministry and life. It does to me. So, what happens when a ministry leader’s marriage is in trouble, when they can’t pay their bills, when they’re stressed or battling depression? More often than not, we concede to the constant and palpable pressure to “present well”, and hide the problem. But, when we are not truly in a peaceful, content place in our lives, it’s a lie to pretend that we are. And lies never help to advance the Kingdom of God. As ministry leaders, we need to cultivate a culture of truth and be willing to share our struggles and vulnerabilities with others. If we set ourselves up as being perfect, the message to a fallen world is that they have to be perfect to be found acceptable. Only by being real with others, can we demonstrate that the hurt, the broken and the sinful can find freedom and salvation in the Lord—and can even be used by Him. So, let’s begin by admitting we’re not perfect. Let’s delve into our real struggles and needs, and let’s honestly work through those issues together. Because being real with ourselves and others is how we will truly succeed in the ministry we were called to do. Blessings in your ministry. — Christy Kohnle, CEO & Founder, Limitless Ministries – www.limitlessministries.com
3. Don't let temporary "lapses" turn into full blown "relapses." Falling off the wagon is perfectly normal and to be expected. Jump back on! You cannot undo all your progress with one "cheat meal" or by skipping a workout. So don't waste time beating yourself up over it. Channel that energy into evaluating why the lapse occurred and how you can prevent it from throwing you off in the future. 4. Find inspiration in others. Hearing how others have overcome similar setbacks can reinvigorate your dedication to stick with your healthy habits. Check out these inspiring Y members who have struggled and succeeded in reaching their goals. 5. Celebrate success! No achievement is too small. Recognizing what you can do keeps you motivated, and giving yourself little rewards along the way is an effective catalyst for change. Here are some simple ways you can celebrate your successes: download a new workout playlist, enjoy a massage or take a selfie and show off. 6. Reach out to your support system. Whether it's coming from your spin class squad, a family member or a new Y friend, the encouragement of others is sometimes all we need to keep going. 7. Mix things up. Maybe you're tired of the healthy lunch you've been packing for the last two months or you're getting bored with your typical exercise routine. Mix things up with an interesting new recipe or one of our many group exercise classes. The most important thing to remember about being successful in your new habits is to not throw in the towel. You CAN do it. Go get ‘em! — Lindsey Joe is a YMCA Registered Dietitian and Tennessee Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Nashville Media Spokesperson.
April 2017
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F aith @ W or k
Inward Resurrection Easter is coming shortly -- I look forward to celebrating the physical Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Here lately my mind has been more on "inward resurrections." I can think of no better example than Teresa. At that time I was attending LifeSong Family Church in Lewisburg on Sunday mornings while going to a Single's class on Sunday night. One night Teresa showed up at our Singles class for the fellowship. After a couple more times of being there, I could sense a real hunger in her to know Christ, and to study scripture. Some of the others were there just to get a date! Then she casually dropped a startling revelation -- she was living in a relationship with a person of the same gender! We sat there sort of stunned as I was thinking "OK, what do we do now?" A few general questions revealed that she knew the relationship was wrong -- a sin by biblical standards. She wanted to change her life and live for Christ, but was afraid of severely emotionally damaging her partner she was living with. She was praying for God to help her. We welcomed Teresa into our group. I rode motorcycles with her and the pastor. She invited me over to her house to meet her partner --which I really didn't want to do, but the Holy Spirit was prompting me to do it. Our group had a cookout over at her house. Eventually there was a separation between them; Teresa's partner went back to live with her parents. Not long after that, Teresa started getting interested in dating fellows. She also became a devout, genuine Christian intent on serving God to the best of her ability. She started taking Bible and ministry
classes through her church. She met a guy (Paul) who she fell in love with and married. I'm so glad that more than 10 years earlier we had welcomed Teresa with open arms. What would have happened if we gave off that malodorous odor of "You're not really welcome here"? Teresa well might have given up. Becoming a Christian is not a matter of learning certain principles, memorizing certain scriptures, or reading certain books. It's a matter of genuine repentance from sins; believing that Jesus is the Son of God; having that desire to make Jesus the Lord of your life. It is a transformation, an inward resurrection in your heart and soul. The old Teresa was dying; the new Teresa was forming, and we were witnessing the change. What Hollywood, the political left, and the news media often declare is impossible (switching sexual orientation) happened right before our eyes. Nothing is impossible with God. Without that inward resurrection, Christ's Resurrection will hold no value to you in the general resurrection from the dead at the last trumpet call. It's a necessary 3 resurrections: 1. Christ's historical Resurrection 2. Your own inward resurrection (salvation portrayed by water baptism -- being "buried" in the water, then being "raised" to new life in Christ). 3. Resurrection at the last Day to eternal life. Without #2 you will not enjoy #3, but rather Resurrection to eternal damnation and punishment. Let's celebrate Jesus' Resurrection this year, while being thankful for our "inward resurrection." Don't eat too much chocolate -- Happy Easter! — Stephen Rowland is chaplain for the Knights For Christ, the Columbia chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association.
iN his grip
It’s Show Time ... A few years ago I had the opportunity to take a tour of the Golf Channel in Orlando, Florida. It was amazing to stroll behind the scenes and see a vision realized by the King of golf, Arnold Palmer. Golf Channel launched on January 17, 1995, as the first single-sport cable network in the United States by golf icon Palmer and cable entrepreneur Joe Gibbs. Since then, the network has expanded its global reach and is now available in more than 200 million homes in 84 countries and 11 languages around the world. As I returned home from this very trip, I had a dream of launching an In His Grip Golf TV Show that would share stories of faith along the fairways. As I put pen to paper, and sketching out a budget, a real fear started to rise up and I quickly aborted the mission. Me of little faith. Well, in the fall of 2016, just a few months ago, I was playing golf with a local businessman and he asked me if there were any dreams for the In His Grip ministry that needed to be revisited. A very powerful question. Immediately, I began to share with him the idea of a faith-based golf show and how we could start to reach the multitudes of golfers by telling their stories of faith while strolling the fairways of life.
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Filming for the new In His Grip Golf TV Show on the 6th hole at Nashville Golf and Athletic Club in Brentwood, TN.
He challenged me to put my fears behind me and to get God of the box and to start taking steps to see this dream realized. I had a deep sense that the Lord was asking me to get out of the boat and start walking In His Grip. The verse Matthew 14:29 kept coming to mind: "Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. On Sunday, April 9, 2017 we will be launching the first episode of the In His Grip Golf Tv Show on http://www.Youtube/inhisgrip.tv. Our vision is to reach Two Million Men by 2020. Please pray and stay tuned… I was recently asked where do I see the In His Grip Golf Tv Show in five years? My simple answer…on the Golf Channel. — Scott Lehman is President of In His Grip Golf Ministry and author of the popular book, “More than a Game.” Scott and his family live in Thompson Station, Tenn.
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VBS 2017 June 12-16
Brentwood Campus
June 12-16
Station Hill Campus
June 19-23
West Franklin Campus
9:00 AM-12:15 PM Age 5-Grade 5 (by June 12, 2017) VBS provided for birth-4 years old for children of volunteers Online registration open until June 7
BrentwoodBaptist.com/VBS April 2017
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Called the “Evidence Whisperer” by the television crew at Dateline, best-selling author and apologist J. Warner Wallace will be a featured speaker at the reTHINK Apologetics Student Conference in Birmingham, Ala., April 21-22, www.rethinkapologetics.com/alabama
An outspoken atheist for much of his life, cold case detective J. Warner Wallace was familiar with two types of Christians as a young adult: fellow cops who had an evidential approach to their work but had no idea evidentially why Christianity was true, and the apologetic criminals he hauled off to jail. He wanted nothing to do with faith until age 35, when he decided to put his detective skills to work on the New Testament accounts of the life of Christ. Now a featured cold case detective on NBC’s Dateline as well as a Christian apologist and best-selling author, Wallace will speak at the reTHINK Apologetics Student Conference in Birmingham, Ala. April 21-22.
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Photo Credit: Crissy Pauley
Wallace’s parents divorced when he was young, and his mother raised him for many of his formative years. She was a “cultural Catholic” jaded by the stigma of being a divorced woman in the church in the 1960s, he says, and while he occasionally attended mass and took communion, he never believed any of it was true. Wallace started in law enforcement in 1988. He worked patrol with the Torrance Police Department in California before moving on to work gangs, SWAT, surveillances and robbery/ homicide. As a police officer, he peaked in his passionate mockery of the faith. Two things made Christianity absurd to Wallace. First, his friends who were Christians could not answer what he saw to be the simplest of questions: Why do you believe the Bible is true? Their best answer looked like blind trust or claims of personal communication from God. Second, on the job, he learned to identify Christians as people passionately repentant for regular, premeditated criminal misconduct. “If An adjunct professor of apologetics at you were a drug user, you were using Biola University, Wallace has previousheroin, we would probably watch you ly written books on making a case for a case for theism based on come and go back and forth from your Christianity, evidence in the universe, and a case for girlfriend’s house to your seller. Finally the resurrection of Jesus. Forensic Faith C. Cook), available May 1, will help you’d run out of money and go off and (David readers understand why they have a duty do an armed robbery, and then we’d to defend the truth and teach readers take you to jail,” Wallace says of his timedetective skills to discover new insights in God’s Word. in surveillance. “These guys would tell us, ‘I know I shouldn’t be doing this, I’m a Christian, you know, I’ve been a Christian for years.’ We would just think that was the funniest thing ever. We spent a lot of time mocking these guys to our friends.” Wallace’s wife Susie grew up in the Catholic Church and wanted church attendance to be a part of their lives once they had children. Wallace was more than willing to participate, as an atheist. When their children were about four and six years old, however, Wallace attended a service at which he heard
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As a detective, Wallace has solved a dozen cold cases over 24 years and his work has been featured on NBC’s Dateline four times.
Wallace and his wife Susie are the co-authors of Cold Case Christianity for Kids, designed for readers between the ages of 8-12.
Jesus identified as the author of the teachings on which Western civilization is grounded. “Here I was a police officer who was enforcing the laws of the culture but never had really heard Jesus described as the source of those laws. So I said OK, I’ll buy a Bible. And I started reading through it to see what Jesus had to say.” In an intense six-month personal study of Scripture, Wallace found the Gospels to be a historical account in which the authors were trying to convince him certain events actually took place. It was a familiar situation for a detective accustomed to solving cases from the distant past, with written reports but no access to original witnesses. Law enforcement had given him a skillset for evaluating the veracity of ancient text. “I was somebody who had probably done hundreds and hundreds of both witness interviews and suspect interviews. Interviews where people are for the most part doing their best to tell me the truth, and interviews where people are for the most part doing their best to tell me a lie,” he says of the unique perspective his work in law enforcement gave him as he originally wrestled with whether the Bible could be true. “What’s great about that process is you start to get really comfortable with distinguishing the difference between people who are truth tellers and people who aren’t.” For him, the Gospel stories of the life of Christ passed the test. As far as he could test them, he could not disprove them. “I work complex, cumulative, circumstantial cases. When you work a case like that, you build up 100 pieces of evidence, small little things that by themselves are kind of meaningless but when you add them all up they point to the same guy,” he explains. “Christianity—there were lots of little things that all seemed to add up. I call it death by a thousand paper cuts. This is a good case. This is a case I could put in front of a jury.” At age 37, Wallace remained a full-time detective while earning a Master’s Degree in Theological Studies from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. Since then, he has become a renowned Christian apologist and best-selling author. He has worked as a youth pastor and created a ColdCase Christianity website, blog and podcast. He is passionate about changes needed in the church to respond to the crisis of young people leaving the faith. “We have a country that is less and less likely to be Christian in the next generation because it is the youngest people who are far more likely to walk away. We don’t see an attrition rate of people in their 50s who are deciding that Christianity is not true. That’s just not happening. It’s happening in your 20s, in your teens. Most atheists in their 30s will say those years between 13
and 17 were the most formative for them.” Access to the Internet has allowed the atheist worldview to influence youth more than ever before. When teens find well-versed arguments against Christianity online or at school, Wallace says their struggle is often verbalized as: • I didn’t feel like I could ask these questions because if I did the church would doubt the strength of my faith. • When I asked these questions of people who mattered to me or I thought would have an answer, they weren’t articulate. • I’d get an objection from something online or from school and bring it back to my believing authority--my mom, my dad, my youth pastor--and the quality of the answer didn’t seem to be as high as the quality of the answer from the atheist perspective. This means the bar set for youth pastors and college ministry is high. Church staff—and parents—need help to equip themselves for the questions coming their way. “As a church family, we have a crisis moment. You’d think as a family we’d kind of circle the wagons and basically shape and craft everything we do as a family based on the needs of our youngest,” he says. Designed for junior high, high school and college-aged students and their leaders, reTHINK Apologetics Student Conference is a product of Stand to Reason, an organization that trains Christians to think more clearly about their worldview then defend classical Christianity and classical Christian values in the public square. At the Birmingham, Ala. conference in April, Wallace will explain how Christians can use the principles of cold-case detective work to defend the resurrection and the reliability of the Gospels. “I have to eliminate the alternative suspects when I work a case. If I’ve got three possible suspects, I’m not going to want those other two guys to be brought up during my trial,” he explains. “If I know they’re not my guy, I’ve got to demonstrate why so when I get to trial my guy is the last one standing. So a lot of times you have to be well versed enough in alternative worldviews to be able to make a case for why Christianity is the strongest remaining worldview. That’s a lot of work… [but] we’re going to have to know at least enough about why this is true if we want to call ourselves Christians. You’re seeing people flip over to different worldviews because they have no reason to hold onto their own.” — Camille Smith Platt
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Handling the “Hand-off” After Divorce
I grew up in a divorced family with every-other-weekend “handoffs” as part of my life routine. Sometimes they were quick and easy; sometimes they were long and drawn out because my parents tried to talk about co-parenting business or schedules or financial matters. Some handoffs were at the 7-11 parking lot and some were at the front doors of my parents’ homes. I can’t say that there is a “one-size fits all” answer to the handoff process but I want to share ideas that are in the best interest of the children when parents are divorced. - Prepare the child with affirming words about the handoff before the other parent arrives. - As a parent, prepare yourself for the time you will be alone so when you wave goodbye you are emotionally strong and grounded. Don’t make kids feel guilty for leaving and going with the other parent. - Keep handoffs brief and focused on transferring the child(ren) and their belongings. - Use positive tone of voice when talking to the other parent or step parent. - Be aware of your body language during the handoff, kids will pick up on your stress or your positivity. - Verbally support the process with excitement and even a “happy wave” as the kids drive away. - For young children, consider meeting at a McDonalds’s play land or a neutral location where there is a fun distraction available. - Give kids some time to transition emotionally, it may take them an hour or so to adjust to their new surroundings and reengage with the family. - Allow kids to take something special with them between homes: stuffed animal, blanket, pillow, an item that will bring comfort to them. I found myself facing divorce 15 years ago with a one year old daughter. I knew, because of my own childhood routines, that we would have hundreds of “handoffs” in her lifetime and I wanted to do them a bit different than my parents had done. I wanted them to be fun and happy and easy for our daughter. I did not want to have them long and drawn out or ever to feel like a negative experience to Angelia. When we were reviewing our parenting plan I suggested we NEVER have co-parenting discussions at the handoff. Instead, I suggested we talk on the phone when our daughter is asleep, we meet in person in a public location or we use email to discuss important matters. We created a process of having “co-parenting meetings” and that has served everyone very well for all these years. This way, Angelia never has to wonder what will happen at the weekly handoff; she is not stressed, we are not stressed and everyone interacts positively and peacefully. For more free information on co-parenting please see www.CoparentingInternational.com. — Tammy Daughtry, MMFT - Author, Co-parenting Works! Helping Your Children Thrive after Divorce, Co-Founder, Counseling Center for Modern Family Dynamics Nashville
In 1981, Eddie Carswell formed something that was probably never thought to be the hit that it became. NewSong was formed in Valdosta, Ga. in 1981 amongst a small group of friends. The band is known in part for recording one of my all time favorite Easter songs, Arise, My Love which happens to be a song NewSong recorded years ago! When considering the song, Arise, My Love, there are many instances to draw from the Bible for its storyline, but the men of NewSong tell us something beyond the pages of the Word. We know there were soldiers guarding Jesus’ grave and that it had been three days. We know that a great quake and an angel accompanied His resurrection, which struck the soldiers with terror. What a historic scene. What, or who, could cause such a moment, except for the Father? Every believer knows He must have been responsible for the resurrection, but this song puts it into words for us, perhaps a more human side of the story. The Father calls to his Son, simply saying, “Arise”. There doesn't seem to be the right amount of words to explain why Arise, My Love has remained among NewSong’s well-known hits. In my humble opinion, it is possibly NewSong’s most well-known hit and has maintained that status by being a song that reaches across the generations. Since 1981, NewSong has gone on to produce youth conferences as well as Senior adult conferences. From their yearly youth conference was birthed Winter Jam, a national tour, every winter that reaches hundreds of thousands of kids, teens and adults. NewSong ministers at every concert and this song is always performed. I attended in 2016 and was overtaken by the unity of thousands of people from multiple generations singing, “ARISE, MY LOVE!” — Amber Smith Dash Publisher's Note: The “Music Notes” column in the February, 2017 issue had an incorrect and out of date bio for Amber Smith Dash. It contained incorrect information as it relates to her at the time the article was published. We apologize for the mixup.
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M I R ACLE M AKE R S As a child I stay with my uncle who was a pastor and lived in a tiny church parsonage with low ceilings, shag carpet as deep as wheat, and an old gas heater with blue flames dancing behind a ceramic grate. The combination of these things caused the house to be so sufficiently charged with static, it could set off an electroscope. I loved building up an electrical charge. Then I would wait for my sister or brother to walk by. Unknown to them, not only was I ready for discharge, but I had a paperclip from my uncle’s study that I had unwound so that it was a long thin, metal conductor. If I could just touch the bottom of their earlobe with my homemade electrical probe, then it was like reaching out and taking hold of the hem of Jesus’ garment. This made for especially interesting gatherings at dinner time. My uncle always had us stand and say grace. Most of the time we held hands; but we did so, not out of love. It was electricity. We held on to one another to ground ourselves, afraid of being shocked by the other and even more afraid of picking up a spoon with the static still attached to our sleeve. I wish church was more like that. I’m talking about the spark; the sense and knowledge that there is a power in the room, a power that animates, moves, and stirs us. It is something far more than emotionalism, histrionics, or religious sentiment. It is a desire for the living Presence that will not allow us to remain as we are.
It is no wonder why some people won’t go to church; it is because they have already been to church, and have found it to be as lifeless and dead as a dodo. There is no passion in the pew or in the pulpit; the liturgies and songs are without spirit; and it often appears as if the leaders and participants don’t believe – not remotely – in what they are saying or doing. But it can change. As Annie Dillard said, “Does anyone have the foggiest idea what sort of power we so blithely invoke? Ushers should issue life preservers and signal flares; they should lash us to our pews…For the waking God may draw us out to where we can never return.” To this, I say “Amen.” — Ronnie McBrayer is a syndicated columnist, speaker, and author of multiple books. You can read more and receive regular e-columns in your inbox at www. ronniemcbrayer.net.
m oN ey m at te r s Get Rid Of the Cards Dear Dave, We’re trying to get control of our finances, and my husband wants to close all our credit cards. I want to keep one and use the bill-pay option for monthly stuff like utilities, so we can keep earning rewards points. I look at my way as a method of just re-routing the money and paying it off each month. Am I wrong in looking at it like this? Cheryl Dear Cheryl, Yes, you are. Life never goes as planned. You can have all the well-reasoned and best-intentioned ideas you want, but sooner or later something will go wrong. Why not use a debit card that has a rewards system attached? Lots of debit card programs offer the same kinds of rewards programs that credit card companies do, with one big exception — you don’t have to go into debt! Studies have shown that the vast majority of people never redeem their credit card airline miles. Other
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studies show that people spend more when using credit cards as opposed to cash. That extra money you spend on things you don’t need is money you could have been saving and investing. So, where’s the reward?
Teens and Checkbooks Dear Dave, My daughter is 15, and she’s had jobs around the house and been on commission and the envelope system for years. She’s very good about saving and not spending on silly things. We recently opened a checking account for her, and I was wondering what bills you think we should assign for her to pay on her own? Suzanne Dear Suzanne, This sounds a lot like we did with our kids. She’s obviously bright and motivated, so the first thing you do is explain to her the seriousness and responsibility associated with a checking account. The next step is for her to balance the checkbook with you looking over her shoulder. Do this with her for several months, while you keep one on the account,
too. After that, I want her to do it alone and show you her work. Her balance should match yours and the one at the bank. As soon as she demonstrates competency, and you feel comfortable that she can handle things, I want you to start putting her clothing budget in the account. You know, the weirdest thing happened with our girls at this stage. They suddenly started shopping at less expensive stores. It’s amazing when they see that the dollars associated with these purchases can run out. My bet is you’ll see some changes in her value choices. Just take it step-by-step, a little at a time. The more they exhibit competence, wisdom, and confidence, the more you can release them. — Dave Ramsey is CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven best-selling books, including The Total Money Makeover. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 12 million listeners each week on 575 radio stations and multiple digital platforms. Follow Dave on the web at daveramsey.com and on Twitter at @DaveRamsey.
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BIBLE TRUTH
Christians may look ordinary on the outside, but on the inside, lives a beautiful God. WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS Colossians 1:27 New International Version (NIV) 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
It is truly incredible how quickly your kitchen floor can accumulate crumbs and dirty footprints – especially is you have a house full of little ones. Your busy, we get it. And on top of that, you have an army of cereal slinging munchkins working against you. When that’s your reality it’s completely normal to wonder, “How often should I be cleaning my floor?” The answer is in The Barefoot Test.
The Barefoot Test
We’ve all done it, unknowingly. The Barefoot Floor Test is when you walk across a floor and then pick up your foot to look at all the crumbs and specks that stuck to the bottom of your foot. The great thing about this test is that it’s practical. You cannot always “see” a dirty wooden floor, so you might be imagining one and be cleaning it too often, wasting time, effort and money, and potentially dulling your floor’s beautiful finish.
Egg Geode INGREDIENTS • 12 Eggs • Water • Borax • Food Coloring INSTRUCTIONS STEP 1: Crack each egg near the narrow end. Remove the shell near the top of each egg, pour out the contents, and place the eggs back into the carton, so the cracked part of the egg is facing up. STEP 2: Fill the saucepan ¾ of the way with water, add food coloring, and mix. STEP 3: Add borax until the water is super saturated with borax. STEP 4: Once the water starts boiling, pour the contents into each egg, allow the water to evaporate, and observe. Was this process quick or slow compared to events, which occur on Earth? Use several sources to provide evidence that Earth events can occur quickly or slowly. EXPLANATION As the water evaporates from the eggs, borax crystals deposit on the inside of the eggs, creating an egg geode. BIBLE CONNECTION The crystals inside your egg geodes are beautiful. Just like an egg geode, you may look ordinary on the outside, but as a Christian, you have a beautiful God living inside you.
But if you take off your socks and the floor needs cleaning, you’ll “feel” it. Finding Your Optimal Floor Cleaning Schedule How often should you clean your floor? The rule of thumb is every two weeks, but every household is unique. Depending on your dusting schedule, if you allow shoes to be worn in the house, if you have kids or pets, even your furnace vents and filters can affect floor cleaning schedules. To find that perfect schedule for your home, mark your calendar and use The Barefoot Test a week after you clean the floor. Still good? Go three more days to see if you need the floor cleaned three times a month (every 10 days). Then test at two weeks. Still good? If so, fantastic! Keep going until you have your own personal schedule that’s both practical and efficient.
Floor Cleaning Tips
As a residential cleaning service that’s been cleaning floors for customers for over 30 years, we’ve learned a thing or two about giving you floors that pass The Barefoot Test. Below are some links to floor cleaning tips and advice from the professional at Molly Maid: • Let’s take a look at how to clean your floors better for vinyl, wood and laminate flooring: How to Mop and Clean Wood, Vinyl and Laminate Floors • Molly Maid’s professional house cleaners also have some other handy tips for cleaning ceramic tile and vinyl floors: Floor Cleaning Tips • Infographic: How Often the Average American Family Cleans their Home Let Molly Maid help We’re experts at saving homeowners time. Contact your local Molly Maid online or call us at (888) 583-6490 today! online or call us at (888) 583-6490 today! to ask about home cleaning services that meet your schedule, budget and cleaning needs, and enjoy more free time than ever. — Ashley Farrar
— Jason Lindsey is the Executive Director and Founder of Hooked on Science www.hookedonscience.org
April 2017
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B ODY & S OU L
Think about how people react to you and this principle: If people like you, they will find a way to praise you. If they don’t like you, they will find a way to criticize you. To follow this principle, it is clear that you will want to find a way for people to like you. What would cause people to like you? A key to causing people to like us is for us to like other people. If you don’t like most people you meet, don’t expect them to like you. Your attitude toward others will be apparent regardless of any attempt to conceal your feelings. Second, you must like yourself. When you like yourself, you will be more joyful, pleasant and smiling. When you are confident in yourself, you will find it easier to then find the good in others. When you find the good in others, you bring out the best in them and thus encouraging them in turn to find good in others, including you.
STUDY QUESTIONS
A third way to cause others to like you is to show an interest in what matters to them. Ask questions about what motivates them, what they like to do, what they have accomplished and show an interest in their responses with follow-on questions. People in general enjoy talking about what is important to them. Seek those things out and encourage them to talk (or write) about these topics.
1. Identify five characteristics you possess that could cause people to like you. 2. To wh extent are these five characteristics apparent to everyone you meet? 3. Are there things about you that get negative reactions? Are they important enough to you to continue them as they are or could there be room for change?
A fourth way is to give genuine positive feedback. Rather than waiting for them to take a breath so that you can talk about yourself, find ways to praise them for their accomplishments, thank them for their service, identify with what is important to them. Avoid negativity. Don’t criticize other people, places or things. By being positive, you encourage others to be positive. Now all of this must be 100% genuine. Others will see through a fake interest and will put you in a worse situation than if you had said nothing at all. Going back to the principle stated at the beginning, if people like you, they will find a way to praise you. If they don’t like you, they will find a way to criticize you. There are complicating factors such as how people feel about others around you, a product or service you represent and how they feel about themselves. However, the principle says, if they like you they will find a way to praise you. That is to say, if they like you, they might find a way to overlook other factors that they find less pleasant.
These study questions are intended for use with God’s Plan for Service. The primary purpose of the study questions is to help the reader to more fully grasp the significance and implications of the topic. Recipients have the option of sending your responses to God’s Plan for Service for comment by Dr. Oosting (by email to info@godsplanforservice.org or mail to GPS, 1226 Knox Valley Drive, Brentwood, TN 37027.
— Kennth Oosting, PhD
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Choosing Gratitude
People are more likely to respond positively to an individual than to a product or a service. Set out to find ways for people to like you rather than thinking that what you represent will simply sell itself regardless of how they respond to you. What you represent is likely to be rejected if the person does not like you. What changes in your thinking, in your attitude toward people, work and the rest of the world are necessary to make this work for you. Do you wake up thinking of the many opportunities you have today to do good things, to enjoy life and to please God? If you can wake up this way and maintain that attitude during the day, you might discover some new friends and new sources of happiness. Think first of God, then others and then self. Be a joyful spirit as you relate to others. What are you doing today to cause people to like you?
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M I S S ION M AKE R S
Brandi with Rukla Issak at Unity Build
Let Your Light Shine Nashville, TN, November 25: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (NIV).
Brandi Nunnery lives each day striving to shine her light on everyone she encounters. Brandi believes that everything you do and say effects yourself, your family, and the community. She hopes to use this power to influence others in the best way possible as she pours her talents and efforts into volunteering with her church, sorority sisters, and family. Brandi said, “By letting my light shine through volunteer work, I'm able to help others have a better quality of life- no matter where they are in their journey.” By giving back to others, Brandi hopes to help others and grow a servant heart in herself. Brandi strives to let each of her volunteer experiences impact all facets of her life to make her a servant and a leader. She also includes her eight year old daughter Parker in her volunteer work to instill a heart for service and others in her. Not only does Brandi pour herself into volunteer projects, but everything that she learns while volunteering influences her career as a literacy coach, church involvement, and service to her sorority.
Brandi has attended Unity of Nashville Church for the past twelve years, where she served on the board for five years and acted as the Unity Build coordinator for four builds. Brandi never imagined that she would be a highly involved church member for over a decade, yet she has loved serving her church in a multitude of ways. From being a part of the board, to coordinating builds with Habitat for Humanity, to teaching Sunday school and greeting people before church, Brandi has volunteered to meet a multitude of her church’s needs. In addition to working with Unity of Nashville Church, Brandi currently acts as the President of the Nashville Area Alumnae Chapter for Alpha Omicron Pi. While in college, Brandi became involved with her sorority’s philanthropy that aims to find a cure for arthritis. Over the years, Brandi has seen the overwhelming amount of people who suffer daily from arthritis pains. Her sorority gives Brandi an easy way to stay involved with raising support for the Arthritis Foundation.
While Brandi loves fundraising for arthritis research, her favorite experiences with this philanthropy has been meeting the people and hearing the stories of those whom she is working to help. Though Brandi can never know just how many people her service affects, she said, “What I do know and have faith in is that my good works ripple out like waves hopefully inspiring and encouraging others to give of their time, talents, and treasures.” Nashville’s Volunteer of the Month is a program of Doing Good, a 501(c)3, nonprofit organization which educates and inspires people by celebrating the real stories of real people who volunteer. For additional information about Brandi, Doing Good, or other volunteers, visit the website www.DoingGood.tv or @DoingGoodTV on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, or YouTube. Doing Good is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides marketing and public relations tools, resources, and opportunities to nonprofit and government agencies to celebrate their volunteers. www.DoingGood.tv
— Kingsley East
PACE BIT S EXHI ND A IPS ORSH S N O E SP LABL AVAI
Stephen K. Wilson | President / Owner One Kentucky, Inc.
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TOTAL LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS Landscaping
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Joel Angulo 615.642.4492 20 years experience
Has something in the magazine or something you have discussed with someone or some thoughts that you have had or something that you have heard, brought you to a point of realizing that you want and need to know Christ in the truest and personal sense?
If so, below is a simple outline for someone of any age who is not a Believer to act on their desire to accept Jesus Christ into their heart as their Savior. God’s Plan of Salvation God created us to honor and serve Him Revelation 4:11: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power;For You created all things, And by Your will they exist[b] and were created Each of us has sinned against God Romans 3:10: As it is written, “There is none righteous, no, not one” Romans3:23: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Jesus Christ died on the cross in our place, paying the penalty for our sin Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We each must accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior Romans 10:9: that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:13: For “whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.”
The penalty for sin is eternal separation from God and Heaven Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good works cannot ever earn God’s forgiveness and Salvation Titus 3:5: not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us. God loves each of us John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
To accept Christ into your heart and life, pray a simple prayer along these lines - “Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and I am sorry for my sins. I know that Jesus died for my sins and the sins of the world. Right now, I ask Jesus into my heart and receive Him as my personal Savior. Forgive me of my sins, thank you for saving me through the blood of Jesus. Please Lord, help me live for you. In Jesus name, amen.” All scriptures are taken from The New King James Version of the Holy Bible.
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April 2017 Calendar List Your Event!
If you have an event you would like listed in the Nashville Christian Family Community Calendar e-mail us at: NCFPublication@gmail.com subject line - Calendar Goodwill Will Pickup Your Donation “If you can’t get it to us, we’ll come get it from you.” That’s the gist of Goodwill’s new Home Donation Pickup Program, which in just a few months has grown to serve communities in more than 16 Middle Tennessee Middle and West Tennessee counties (Davidson, Montgomery, Robertson, Sumner, Wilson, Rutherford, Dickson, Cheatham, Maury, Dekalb, Bedford and Perry, Madison, Henderson, Gibson and Decatur). www.giveit2goodwill. org/pickups Summer Jobs With Williamson County Parks And Recreation Department The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting applications for temporary/ seasonal jobs for summer 2017. Temporary, part-time positions are available in several divisions. Williamson County Parks and Recreation offers a fun working environment and can provide an excellent opportunity for real life experience. If you are interested in working in the field of recreation, please apply! Camp counselors are needed for general summer day camps in Franklin and Nolensville, specialty camps and field trips (age 17 or older), as well as Camp Will therapeutic day camp (age 18 or older) and Academy Park Summer Camp. The Aquatics division is seeking lifeguards (certified) for all pool locations and pool cashiers (age 16 or older) for outdoor pool locations in Franklin, Spring Hill and Fairview. To apply for a summer job, contact the William-
son County Government Human Resources Department at (615) 5918504 or visit http://www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/jobs.aspx. Williamson County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applications will be destroyed in accordance with Federal and State Laws. April 16 – Easter Sunday HE IS RISEN!! April 28 Deer Run Homeschool Family Day Camp – Experience a day of camp with your family! 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $12 per person. Free for ages 4 and under. Mega relay race, craft, archery, BB guns, fishing tutorial, climbing tower, wagon ride and more. For grades 3 and up: Leap of Faith (no additional cost), Giant Swing ($6), Paintball ($10). Advance registration is recommended: DeerRun.camp/ events/homeschool. Questions: call 615.794.2918.
a bout o u r a dVe rti s e r s
1st Thursday monthly at 7 p.m. Tennessee Right to Life Chapter Meets at Faith Lutheran Church, 2640 Buckner Road, Thompson’s Station, Tn Tennessee Right to Life is committed to effectively advocating the protection of human life through educational outreach, passage of protective legislation and the development of an informed, active grassroots movement statewide. www.tennesseerighttolife.org - info@ tnrtl.org - 615-298-LIFE(5433) Last Tuesday of every month except December Tennessee Christian Chamber of Commerce – Monthly Luncheon
EGroups - Networking/Leads Meetings held in these locations: Brentwood, Cool Springs/Franklin, Downtown, Hendersonville, Mt. Juliet, Murfreesboro. For meeting locations, times and dates or for more information about the Chamber and events, visit www.tnchristianchamber.org or email rstringfellow@yahoo.com.
Coming in
APRIL and MAY
Saturday May 20 Deer Run Amazing Camp Race – A fun, competitive race with 10 action-packed, timed recreational activities. All funds from the event go towards the Camper Scholarship Fund for kids in need. Choose your team of 2 to 6 persons: friends, family, Bible study group, co-workers. Two courses: Adventurers, for all ages, and Wild Bucks, a more challenging adventure course. Info and Registration: DeerRun.camp/donate/the-amazing-camprace. Questions: call 615.794.2918. May 20 Triathlon For Young Athletes - Registration Open Now Calling all aspiring triathletes, ages 8 to 12! You can swim, bike and run your way to the finish at the sixth annual Half-Pint Triathlon on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at the Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road. Register now for this fun annual event at www.wcparksandrec.com, activity #9209.
Please support these local businesses that support Nashville Christian Family with their advertising. Support us by patronizing them.
Ben Davis - www.selectpointe.com/ , 615-584-4946 Bott Radio Network – www.bottradionetwork.com, 615-871-1160 Brentwood Baptist – www.brentwoodbaptist.com , 615-324-6100 David W. Harr, DMD - www.docharr.com, 615-776-2565 Deer Run Camps and Retreats - www.DeerRun.camp, 615-794-2918 Experimac – www.experimac.com/mt-juliet-tn, 615-457-8000 Forensic Faith – David Cook Genesis of Cool Springs – www.genesisofcoolsprings.net, 877-886-8448 Hyundai of Cool Springs – www.hyundaiofcoolsprings.com, 877-886-8448 Landscaping By Joel – 615-642-4492 Lee Company - www.leecompany.com, 615-567-1000 Midwest Capital Mortgage – www.forwardandreversemortgagerates.com, 615-970-2216
NashvilleChristian ChristianFamily Family 2626 Nashville
ONGOING
Miss Pattycake – www.misspattycake.com Molly Maid – www.mollymaid.com, 615-794-0200 P.E.S.T., Inc.- www.pestinc.net, 615-382-9774 Saint Thomas Health - www.sths.com, 615-284-LIFE Spring Hill Memorial Park, Funeral Home & Cremation Services – www.springhill-memorial.com, 931-486-0059 The Fish 94FM - www.94fmthefish.net, 615-367-2210 TN Christian Chamber of Commerce – www.tnchristianchamber.org 615-815-8765 University of Alabama – www.boonecabin.ua.edu, 205-348-4090 Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Services – www.williamsonmemorial.com, 615-794-228 YMCA - www.ymcamidtn.org, 615-259-9622 Youth Villages – www.youthvillages.org, 615-250-7200
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
2017
Hyundai Santa Fe
30,800 Starting 18/25 City/Hwy MSRP MPG
$
1
2
MSRP excludes destination charges, tax, title, and license fees. Destination charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost. 22017 Santa Fe SE/Limited FWD: 18 City/25 Hwy/21 Combined. AWD: 18 City/24 Hwy/20 Combined. 2017 Santa Fe SE Ultimate/Limited Ultimate FWD: 17 City/23 Hwy/20 Combined. AWD: 17 City/22 Hwy/19 Combined. EPA estimates. For comparison only. Your actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle’s condition.
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1.877.886.8448 www.hyundaiofcoolsprings.com
#1 Neighborhood Hyundai Dealer* *Based on 2014 HMA USA South Central Region Reports
201 Comtide Ct., Franklin TN (I-65, Exit 69)
2017
Genesis G-80 $
41,400 Starting 18/28 City/Hwy MSRP MPG 1
2
MSRP excludes destination charges, tax, title, and license fees. Destination charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost. 2 2017 Genesis G-80: 18 City/28 Hwy/21 Combined. Your actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle’s condition. 1
1.877.886.8448 www.genesisofcoolsprings.net 201 Comtide Ct., Franklin TN (I-65, Exit 69)
COMPLIMENTARY
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Enjoy a worry-free ownership experience that includes Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles; whichever comes first. Plus, complimentary oil changes every 7,500 miles.
April 2017
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