Nashville Christian Family December, 2017 Issue by Christian Family Nashville

December 2017

COMPLIMENTARY

Christmas Traditions Adoption as a Calling:

DUCK DYNASTY

IT’S NOT WHAT’S UNDER THE TREE THAT MATTERS. IT’S WHO’S

GATHERED AROUND IT. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS. Evangelical Christian Credit Union is thankful to not only serve you with a suite of banking options, but to support Christ-centered ministry around the world. With every dollar you earn, save and spend, you’re helping ministries grow and fulﬁll their mission.

Visit ECCU.org or call us at 800.634.3228.

Our Mission Publisher: Robert Stringfellow • 615-815-8765 publisher@christianfamilynashville.com Editor: Raymonda Jaggers Contributing Writers:

Durward (Santa) Blanks Neil Breeden Linda Carlson Lindsey Castleman Kenneth Chan Steven Compton Zac Cooper Amber Smith Dash Tammy Daughtry Dan Kalman Ben Lawson Scott Lehman Jason Lindsey Jeremy Mack

Kelli Mitchuson Frank Odrobina Kenneth Oosting, PhD Camille Platt Regina Prude Stephen Rowland Mark Simpson Aron Strong Laurie Stroud Ashton Tate Jean Thomason Aimee Walthan Ashley Youngsma

Production and Art Direction: Wendy Satterwhite Website Development, Digital Marketing & SEO Services: The 5by5 Agency Printer: Franklin Web Printing Sales & Marketing: Robert Stringfellow 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

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 “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward me.” Luke 2:1 – 14, King James Version The Christmas season is here again! This time of the year is truly special and exciting when we see family and friends, trim the tree, help and serve others not as fortunate as us, give and receive special gifts, have parties, cook and eat holiday treats and meals. When Christmas Day finally arrives, sometimes we find ourselves so caught up in all the Holiday activities that instead of having enjoyed the season, we are stressed to the max, exhausted, over spent and just ready to get it over with. That should not be the case for Believers! This is the THE season to focus our hearts, minds and families to just “be still and know that He is God.” Do that for yourself and with your family. Get your children together and read the Christmas Story from the Bible. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas – the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Nashville Christian Family wishes for you and yours a very Blessed, Peaceful and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

Publisher, 615-815-8765 publisher@christianfamilynashville.com

December 2017

Bay Point Heights

1299

Hybrid Luxury Firm

$ INSTALLED WITH A SMILE REBATE

QuEEN, 2pc. SET

INSTALLED WITH A SMILE REBATE

TWIN, 2pc. SET ...... $1099 FuLL, 2pc. SET ....... $1199 KINg, 2pc. SET ...... $1699

Shining Glory

1299 Extra Firm

QuEEN, 2pc. SET

TWIN, 2pc. SET ...... $1099 FuLL, 2pc. SET ....... $1199 KINg, 2pc. SET ...... $1699

Sun Chaser

1499 plush pillow Top

QuEEN, 2pc. SET

UP TO

MONTHS SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE!* *Subject to credit approval. Minimum monthly payments required. See store for details.

Mattress Inn 1006 Crossings Blvd. â&#x20AC;¢ Spring Hill, TN 37174

3630

,/,)&)*&)**0 @K*+10/)

TWIN, 2pc. SET ...... $1299 FuLL, 2pc. SET ....... $1399 KINg, 2pc. SET ...... $1899

In the Crossings of Spring Hill across from Buffalo Wild Wings

931-489-1993 www.MattressInn.com

OPEN: 10a-7p Mon.-Sat. 12p-5p Sunday

December 2017

Contents

Volume 9, Number 2

DEPARTMENTS 3 From the Publisher 6 An Encouraging Word We CAN Have a New Day With God’s Help 6 Money Matters “It is More Blessed to Give Than to Receive” – Do We Honor This Year Round?

ON THE COVER 16

Duck Dynasty stars, Korie and Willie Robertson, are passionate about adoption and consider it their calling. Korie reflects on the beauty of an intentionally large family and the need for adoptive families in the U.S. Read more on page 16.

11 The Twelve Days of Christmas Explained 14 The National Religious Broadcasters Convention Returns to Nashville 20 Great Ideas For Family Christmas Fun! 27 Our Christmas Holiday Should Be a Holy Day

8 Body & Soul Trusting God To Take Care Of Our Knots and Tangles 10 Mission Makers Through Us, the Church Should Bridge The Gap For Human Trafficking Victims 13 Parent With Purpose Have Your Family Focus on Christ This Chrismas

6, 8, 11, 13, 14, 20, 22, 23, 27, 29 – Christmas Traditions

FEATURES

8 The Home Front With Life Changes Comes Family Traditions Changes

8, 13, 14, 22

13 Music Notes Singing Our Prayers and Praises to God Is Very Powerful Worship 14 Family Matters Do You Have Hard and Fast Christmas Traditions? 20 Teachable Moments Through Jesus, We Have the Greatest Christmas Gift Possible 22 Kids Korner • Teaching Your Children About God While Decorating the Tree • Kids Get Connected With the Bible Using Simple Science Experiments 23 Christian Soldier The Back Story of the Greatest Hero of World War I

23 Pot Luck Make a Special Christmas Treat

NEXT ISSUE

24 Healthy Living • Excellent Information For Controlling Blood Sugar • REST – It Can Be More Than You Think It Is 27 Faith At Work Our Freedom Should Be Through the Lord 29 Parenting Points Ideas To Help When “Sharing” Kids at Christmas 30 Calendar 30 About Our Advertisers

Christian comedian and author Anita Renfroe & MUCH MORE!

For More Good News, visit ChristianFamilyNashville.com

20, 27 December 2017

A n E ncou r ag i ng W or d

Focusing on a New Day to Change Your New Year One of my all time favorite quotes comes from a man who used to be an atheist, C.S. Lewis. “Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing has yet been done.” That’s how I look at life. Sure, we hear people say, “Today is a new day” or “Each day is a new beginning to become who you want to be”. While I can’t argue with those inspirational quotes, I believe C.S Lewis hit the nail on the head with his simple, yet profound description of a new day. Here’s why. We are not in control of our lives. I, like most people, try my hardest to make each day go my way. Don’t hear me wrong, to some extent we do have control. We make the decision to have a positive attitude, undeterred by days where everything seems to be going wrong. We choose to forgive those who may have hurt us. And sometimes, we have to wake up and forgive all over again because forgiveness can be hard. We smile and pick ourselves up, even when all we want to do is complain. We commit to dinner plans with friends who need our love, despite our exhaustion from work. All of these decisions stem from relying on God, believing his Word and trusting that he is good. Romans talks a lot about our broken human desires and the inability to overcome them without the help from God. Let’s face it. It’s true. When I’m not consist in my walk with the Lord, I find myself dwelling, selfishly more negative and self righteous. It makes sense when you look at passages like Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. But thankfully, that passage is followed up with hope. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 You see, there will be bad days. There will be bad weeks. Heck, maybe even bad months. But I promise you, if you focus on what God is trying to teach

you in the moments that feel like rock bottom, you will realize there is a purpose behind all of the pain. At times, it’s okay not to be okay…but you can’t sit there.

You can’t remain paralyzed because you’ll miss too much. You’ll miss the comfort that comes from choosing to be happy when the world would understand if you were sad. You’ll miss the blessing you have on someone when they see how you embrace loving well in the face of being treated poorly. You’ll miss the beauty in changing your habits, which lead to a better way of thinking about life. And most importantly, you’ll miss all of the ways that God has intended for you to grow through the trials and tribulations of this life. So next time you’re having a bad day, hard week, or serious struggle…look around. There is a genuine blessing somewhere in that mess. So today, let’s focus on relying on God all over again. Tomorrow, let’s do the same. — Aimee Wathen is a Christian freelance writer and founder of the Balanced Chaos; a lifestyle blog that helps others learn how to create balance in their own lives. She attends Cross Point Community Church in Nashville, TN and is heavily involved in serving others within her community. Her calling centers arounds mentoring women who are battling life issues and truly believes there is only one way out of struggles: God. wwww.balancedchaos.org

M on ey M at te r s Giving Is What Matters The Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’. Meet any wise soul and they’ll tell you, “It’s better to give than receive.” They’ll sit you down and tell you stories, as they look back on life, about how true joy amounts from giving. Giving your time, your talents or your financial treasures. Giving is what matters. Especially near the end of life. They’ll quote wisdom found in Acts 20:35 and say it with passion and a knowing grin because they’ve lived it out. Why not give the same way you hope to give of yourself in all of life - with abandon, faith and an outward perspective that the first shall be last and the last shall be first and that your finances, are already His. What if we begin the New Year by giving of our best? From off the top? And then we sit back and watch Him do exponentially more than we could ever dream? At ECCU we believe your time, talents and treasure matter, especially at the end of the year. When you’ve given and poured and generously shared all year long. What if your end-of-year gift is more than a tax break or family gift or peace

Nashville Christian Family

of mind? What if it’s a perseverant step forward in knowing “it’s better to give than receive?” And what if we lead from that perspective and give our best lavishly and with grace as we enter a new year? As you consider how you’ll give by the end of 2017, please keep in mind the following: • If you take money out of your paycheck for charity, keep a w-2 form, a pay stub or other employer-furnished document showing the total amount you withheld for charity, along with the name of the charity and pledge card. • Only qualified charitable organizations qualify a donation. If you’re unsure whether an organization is qualified, seek an IRS letter or search online using IRS Publication 78. • Get those gifts in by December 31, as contributions are only deductible in the current year. Happy end-of-the-year giving! — Linda Carlson

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

network Thousands of Christian Media and Ministry Professionals in One Place

discover

advance

Hundreds of Tools, Resources, and Services for You and Your Organization

Insights in Ministry, Media, Public Policy, and Culture from Renowned Speakers

Hear from these and many other dynamic speakers and musical artists:

JERRY A. JOHNSON

ALEX KENDRICK

President & CEO, National Religious Broadcasters

Writer, Director, Actor, Author, Kendrick Brothers

LUIS PALAU

RICK WARREN

Evangelist, Luis Palau Association

Senior Pastor, Saddleback Church

KELLY WRIGHT

FOX News Co-anchor, America’s News Headquarters

DENNIS PRAGER

Talk Show Host, The Dennis Prager Show

BILLY KIM

Chairman, Far East Broadcasting Company

ERIC METAXAS

Talk Show Host, The Eric Metaxas Show

JOEL ROSENBERG

DAVID JEREMIAH Founder, Turning Point

Co-Founder, Precept Ministries International

HUGH HEWITT

DENNIS QUAID

MICHAEL W. SMITH

Founder & President, The Joshua Fund

Talk Show Host, The Hugh Hewitt Show

Actor

KAY ARTHUR

Musical Artist

DAVID BENHAM

JASON BENHAM

Benham Companies, Convention Emcee

MERCYME

FERNANDO ORTEGA

Musical Artists

Musical Artist

For the full list of speakers and musical artists, visit nrbconvention.org

The annual NRB International Christian Media Convention is the largest nationally and internationally recognized event dedicated solely to assisting those in the ﬁeld of Christian communications. Highlights include Super Sessions, Industry Sessions, Film Screenings, Networking Events, LiveBroadcasts, and more! And with more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Exposition is a vibrant, active marketplace of around 200 vendors — including an all-new 20,000-square-foot Museum of the Bible exhibit — for those seeking tools and services to expand and strengthen their organizations. This is a “must attend” event for Christian communicators!

February 27-March 2, 2018 Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN

Day passes and special first-timers rates available! PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

nrbconvention.org December 2017

H om e F ront

B ody & S ou l

Transforming Traditions

The Tangled Web We Must Unweave

Christmas was a special time in our family. We moved a lot so traditions were important. I couldn’t always count on where I’d be when Christmas arrived, but when it did I knew what was going to happen. For many of my early years, it was getting out the artificial tree. Eventually, there was enough money for to find the perfect real one. Once up, decorating the tree was a family affair. Everyone participated. The tree was not covered with fancy colored balls or tinsel, but instead with eclectic ornaments we’d collected over the years. Store bought, crafted, and homemade, they were shaped as birds, handprints, miniature toys, commemorative ornaments, and knitted snowflakes.

Here I am, twisted up in the same desperate situation again this year. It’s not my fault – I swear it’s not. Anticipating this jumbled mess, and having been stuck in it many times before, I planned carefully to avoid it. But now I see that my preemptive planning was an obvious failure. My dilemma? The annual hanging of the Christmas lights.

On Christmas Day, presents were opened one at a time so all could watch in turn. There were not many presents in those early days, so my folks stretched out the excitement as long they could. There was hot chocolate, Christmas cookies made from scratch, and a fruitcake that my mom made yearly for my dad and I but never ate. My love for it may have been the two weeks it sat wrapped in a brandy-soaked cloth. From setting the table for Christmas supper to the Christmas movie that afternoon, everything happened in an organic ritual of comfort and security. In counseling language, a ritual is any pattern of behavior repeated regularly that improves connection and well-being. We practiced our Christmas rituals religiously. And then Mom passed away. And then my wife and I moved across the country to middle Tennessee, far away from the rest of my family. And then I watched my family disintegrate before my eyes. Suddenly, all our Christmas rituals were all gone. Now, my wife and I have new rituals to replace the ones we lost. Some we simply created. Others are a blend of her and my original family’s. Together, they are uniquely ours. My son will never remember the rituals I grew up with and he experienced as a baby. But he will remember the rituals we’ve created since then. Our rituals are formed out of a deep sense of connection and reverence. The more we perform a ritual, the more special it becomes. “Because we’ve always done it this way,” is the heart of a tradition. “Because when we were young and we had no money, we had this way of doing things” anchors us in our own history. It reminds us of the blessings and hardships that came before. It holds us together like glue, not only solely from the act of it but because it declares the story of our history, our uniqueness, and our resiliency. My mom may be gone now, but many of her rituals live on through us. As do stories of her and where our rituals came from.

When I put these lights away in the attic last January they were in perfect arranged order. I had rolled and packed them so carefully, I just knew the strings of blinking colors would burst from their boxes unfettered. Instead, every strand looks like a giant bird’s nest. How did this happen? Menacing elves? Do electrical cords naturally convulse like this? I doubt that Joseph had any holiday lights on the first Christmas, but he had to feel like a big tangled mess had just landed in his lap. One day Joseph was driving nails, building furniture, and doing what carpenters do, and the next he was planning a wedding to the fair and beautiful Mary and preparing to rear a child that was definitely not his. One day Joseph was at home in Nazareth in blissful, warm familiarity, and the next he was fighting off the midnight cold in a strange Bethlehem stable as a new child was born into the world. What did Joseph do with this tangled web? He went to work untangling every twisted strand of it. He took on the responsibility that had found him. I’m sure there were a few knots that never came undone for Joseph. Like: How can God take the form of a helpless, human baby? Why did God choose Mary to bring this child into the world? Why did God pick him to be the child’s surrogate father? There were no answers to such questions; at least no easy answers. And for us, there are often not enough answers to go around either, just twisting questions and more impossible knots. What do we do? We sit down on the floor with whatever life, God, Providence, or destiny has dealt to us and we untangle as much as we can. So when your well-ordered, well-kept life explodes into a tangled mess – and it will – you can point fingers, blame others, curse the Fates, ask a million unanswerable questions, or you can simply get on with untangling things as you go. — 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.me.

This Christmas, transform your traditions back to rituals. Retell or rediscover why you do the traditions you do. Create new ones to commemorate the season of life you are in or to honor those that came before. Continue rituals from your youth to help you never forget what you came through. And teach your children not just the what’s but the why’s to your rituals. May they grow up steeped in the stories, mysteries, and truths of your family just as the ritual of the Christmas story reminds us of our part in God’s story and his great love for us. — Aron Strong, LMFT, is a therapist, writer, speaker, and entrepreneur. He is the director of Pathways Counseling in Murfreesboro, Tenn., and co-founder and founder (respectively) of two other startups, inRelationship and Paymoxy.

Nashville Christian Family

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

FREE OVEN OR FRIDGE CLEANING! New customers only. Participating locations only. Some restrictions may apply. Offer expires 12/31/17.

MOLLY MAID OF S. DAVIDSON, WILLIAMSON AND MAURY COUNTIES

615-794-0200

WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER. Af ter an ex tra l ong d ay, wh o want s to com e hom e to an extra big m ess? L et Mol l y Mai d ’s professi onal cl ean er s clean you r hom e from top to bottom wh i l e you’re at work , so you ca n com e hom e, kick off you r shoes, and enjoy you r free tim e.

Sing as free as one of these. Child Abuse Survivor Finds Forgiveness Keith Edmonds, Author & Speaker Keith suffered horrific burns as a baby, leaving visible scars across his face. Keith's story is about forgiveness and how he's made it his focus to help abused children and teens through speaking engagements and developing programs. Keith has been through abuse, foster care and, in spite of it all, has made something positive with his life. A story not to miss!

PACE BIT S EXHI ND A HIPS SORS E N SPO B LA L AVAI

Enjoy singing like never before with: • Enhanced Tone Quality • Increased Range • Pitch Accuracy • Easy Breathing

MUSIC CITY VOICE

Neil Breeden, Vocal Coach Singers of all types and styles and levels of experience have had great singing success coaching with Neil Breeden. PROFESSIONAL VOCAL COACH, NEIL BREEDEN 615-440-2263 I neil@neilbreeden.com musiccityvoice.com

December 2017

M i s s ion M ake r s

Your home is invaluable. So is our home maintenance.

Christmas, that wonderful time of year where we as families and churches celebrate God becoming man and dwelling among us. Jesus came to us. He walked among us. He bore our sorrows and came to know our temptations. He experienced life exactly as we do, sin excepted, so he would be able to comfort humans in their affliction. In the incarnation Christ laid aside his glory, majesty, and title in order to identify with those he came to save. It is what gives His cross the power to save. Adam’s treachery had to be paid for by one like Adam, a human, “born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Gal 4:4a-5) This is the essence of the Gospel and the incarnation is the first stone in the foundation of our salvation. But it is also more than that. The Gospel is not just how we are to be saved but it is to be the pattern for our life too. Thomas A’ Kempis, a 14th Century Christian famous wrote, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness”, saith the Lord. These are the words of Christ; and they teach us how far we must imitate His life and character, if we seek true illumination, and deliverance from all blindness of heart. Let it be our most earnest study, therefore, to dwell upon the life of Jesus Christ” What does this have to do with human trafficking? Everything. The gulf that divides most victims of human trafficking and the average middle class church goer in America is both deep and wide. Parental abandonment, drug addiction, poverty, physical abuse, and life-long sexual abuse often combine to form a perfect storm of vulnerability. How can the church prevent human trafficking? How can the church help to rescue those caught in the storm? How can the church help restore the dignity of its victims? How can we cross the gulf between human trafficking and the church? The same way we do in the physical world, with a bridge. And that is where Rescue 1 Global can help. We are a bridge built for the express purpose of helping the church bridge the gap between itself and the victims of human trafficking. The life of Jesus is a way to be redeemed but it is also a way to live. We must follow His example in the Incarnation and go to those we want to see saved from the ravages of sin. The great thing about bridges is that they can be traveled in both directions. Would you help us seek and save those that are lost? Would you help us make the bridge even better, wider, and stronger than it is today? We serve hot meals at local motels in search of victims, educate the church and community, and also house teenage and adult victims of human trafficking. Consider giving a gift or volunteering with us today. — Jeremy Mack with Rescue 1 Global

Nashville Christian Family

Your home is where our heart is For more than 70 years Lee Company has helped customers keep their homes safe and comfortable with the best home maintenance, repair and improvement services available. The value adds up. Professional home maintenance: • Helps increase your home’s long-term property value • Improves energy efficiency and lowers utility bills • Helps prevent mechanical failures and related repairs Become a Lee Company Planned Service Member for as little as $8.25* per month and enjoy 4 annual visits: • Heating tune-up and safety inspection • A/C tune-up and energy-saving cooling inspection • Plumbing inspection • Electrical safety inspection You’ll also receive up to 20% discount on service calls, parts and labor; a 5% discount on equipment replacements; and you’ll never pay emergency rates!

* Price valid for one system. $50/year for each additional HVAC unit.

$20 OFF your next service call Your choice: HVAC, plumbing or electrical. Need a second opinion on a repair or replacement? Give us a call to schedule a FREE appointment.

615-567-1000 www.leecompany.com

Call Today: Or Visit:

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

S p ecial F eatu r e

The Twelve Days of Christmas

If asked when and what are the 12 days of Christmas, most people would tell you it's the days leading up to Christmas. When someone mentions “The 12 Days of Christmas” the song is the first thing that comes to mind. The 12 days actually lead up to Epiphany, which is January 6th.

give Christmas gifts for each of the Twelve Days of Christmas. Since Eastern Orthodox traditions use a different religious calendar, they celebrate Christmas on January 7th and observe Epiphany on January 19th. So, although most children think Santa has to visit all the children on Christmas Eve, he actually has a few more days to complete his rounds!

Most western traditions count Christmas Day, which would place January 5th as the 12th Day of Christmas. In some traditions the first day of Christmas begins on the evening of December 25th with the following day (December 26) being considered the First Day of Christmas. In this case, January 6th (Epiphany) would be the 12th Day of Christmas. Observed on January 6th, the Epiphany js a celebration of the three miracles that manifest the divinity of Christ. The name "Epiphany" comes from the Greek word Epiphania, and means "to show, make known, or reveal." The celebration originated in the Eastern Church in AD 361 as a commemoration of the birth of Christ. Later, additional meanings were added, the visit of the three Magi, Christ's baptism in the Jordan River, and his first miracle at the wedding in Cana. These three events are central to the definition of Epiphany. Legend tells us the song has a deeper meaning than the words tell us. Some say the song was written by English Jesuits in the 16th century. Each “gift” represents a tenet of the Christian faith. My True Love = God. Each day is an aspect of the Christian faith that we should learn. 1 - Patridge in a pear tree = Jesus Christ, the Son of God 2 - Turtledoves = the Old and New Testaments 3 - French hens = the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity 4 - Calling birds = the four gospels, Matthew Mark Luke & John 5 - Golden rings = the first five books of the Old Testament (the Pentateuch) 6 - Geese a-laying = the six days of creation 7 - Swans a-swimming = the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit 8 - Maids a-milking = the Eight Beatitudes 9 - Ladies dancing = the nine fruits of the Spirit 10 - Lords a-leaping = the Ten Commandments 11 - Pipers piping = the 11 faithful disciples (minus Judas, who betrayed Christ) 12 - Drummers drumming = the 12 points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed Although there is no hard evidence to prove the accuracy of this, does it really matter? It seems the commercial aspects of “winter holidays” have become more prominent and we compact “CHRIST MASS” into one day. When I was a child, our Christmas tree didn't get displayed until a week before Christmas, but it stayed until after the first of the year. Now, it's not uncommon to see trees by the roadside on December 26th. (at least what few live trees we see now). Even though December 25th is celebrated as Christmas in most cultures, January 6th is often the day for giving gifts. In some places it is traditional to

This year, consider keeping the decorations up a little longer. Instead of just celebrating Christmas Day, use the entire season, from Advent to Epiphany to teach your children more about our Christian faith. Begin with an Advent calendar. Advent is a time of spiritual preparation, the anticipation of Christ. Then, use the song as a tool to teach our children about Epiphany. Save a gift to open on January 6th. Use scriptures that explain each “gift” in the song. — Durward Blanks is a professional Santa/St.Nicholas and local motivational speaker and life coach. For more information, you can contact him at DurBlanks@gmail.com on Facebook: The Woodlands Santa.

Would you like to

increase your sales

in 2018? RY

COMPLIMENTA g st 2016 Augu

Choosing Gratitude

Family y Bible Stud Ideas

Cost effectively reach families who need and can afford your services

inneyty DabToruSmw ps Adversi Faith

COMPLIMENTA Julyy 2016

Faith in the Workplace

Wisdom at the Polls

ysornGolFdelix Allng fo Goi

Share with our loyal readership why they should do business with you Our readers know that because of advertising partners like you they are able to read Good News every month! And they are ready to THANK YOU for it! For more information, call 615-815-8765 Visit www.christianfamilynashville.com

December 2017

2017

Hyundai Santa Fe

30,800 Starting 18/25 City/Hwy MSRP MPG

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 vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condition.

1.877.886.8448 HyundaiOfCoolSprings.com

#1 Neighborhood Hyundai Dealer* *Based on 2014 HMA USA South Central Region Reports

201 Comtide Ct., Franklin TN (I-65, Exit 69)

2018

Genesis G-80 $

41,750 Starting 19/27 City/Hwy MSRP MPG 1

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 2018 Genesis G-80: 19 City/27 Hwy. Your actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condition. 1

1.877.886.8448 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.

P ar e nt

with

P u r pos e

M u s ic N ote s

4 Affirmations to Focus Your Family on Christ This Christmas Christmas traditions find a place in our lives as a result of tiny, repetitive actions molded across the years. It’s the appetizers traditionally served on Christmas Eve. Or the window where you place the decorated tree. It’s unpacking the nativity scene or simply holding cherished ornaments in your hand. Ornaments that—despite inevitable cracks, chips, and peeling paint—you carefully unwrap and hang because they revive deep, shadowy recollections of years past.

I believe that when we praise the Lord with our individual singing voices, His wish is to, in turn, bless us and others—His people. I am convinced of the often-undiscovered power there is in singing praises and prayers to the Lord. Not only am I talking about corporate worship—singing along with a hymn in church or singing the words of a praise song with the worship team—I am talking about singing our individual praises and prayers to God. This may seem very different and maybe even uncomfortable or awkward to some. Although we may be alone, it may take boldness. When we start to pray in this new way, it may be a method of communicating that the Lord has never heard from us before. He can bless our new efforts to come close to Him as we present our requests to Him in brand new ways.

We seldom establish new Christmas traditions. Yet, how desperately we need them! When your sister calls, you travel to Grandma’s house, or you find yourself sitting alone in the window this Christmas, use that moment to consider what is truly important about the season. Until we get used to this new kind of worship, Pause to consider what we celebrate. No, I actually mean Who we celebrate. it will involve trustCommit to being authentically serious as you nudge your family closer to the ing God to give us the real focus of Christmas by instilling the meaning of Christmas in the heart. words and the notes. In fact, you could sing These 4 affirmations are a place for your family to begin. your prayers to a famil1. We affirm that Jesus came to earth to make a difference. iar tune. You may think On that first morning, the Prince of Heaven, Divinity wrapped in human you are not a singer or flesh, arrived on our doorstep. In our pain, His difference brings healing. In you can’t carry a tune our nakedness, He is our covering. In our despair, He is our Hope. His arrival in a bucket. In fact, all matters. believers can sing praises to God. He is blessed by even the most inexperienced, yet willing singer. 2. We celebrate Christmas, remembering that Jesus’ birth is personal. For me, even as a professional singer and vocal coach, the first time I tried God’s Gift to us of His only beloved Son. That fact is historic, prophetic, and this I was quite uncomfortable, even though I was alone. Later on, my wife deeply personal. He is a personal Savior who cares about our every individual and I started singing our prayers and praises together, which led to one of the crisis and need. The gift of Christmas is realizing that His desire is to have an biggest answered prayers of my life. intimate, private, spectacular relationship with us. We had been trying to conceive for over four years. We went to the right 3. We affirm that celebrating Christ’s birth must be about more than gifts. doctors and tried all the newest methods there were all to no avail. A friend When my children were small, there was a place above the staircase where told us the story of a couple who also were trying to conceive, but when they they could look down into the living room and watch their father and I place started singing their prayers to the Lord in every room of their home, she got wrapped presents under the tree. These nosey little ones always wanted a pregnant. first peek at that new bike or favorite toy. Their excitement and anticipation ruled out waiting until morning. It was that “something-wonderful-is-goWell, we figured that if it worked for them, it could work for us and we started ing-to-happen” joy. God’s love grants us that same Gift of Joy in Christ every singing our prayers and praises to the Lord. We were excited about what we day. Long after the bike becomes too small, the doll breaks, or the tech gift is believed God would do for us like He did for that other couple. In less than out of style, Christ fills our every need. three weeks, our doctor confirmed that my wife and I were going to have a baby. We were very excited and thankful to God for answering our prayer. 4. We commit to establishing new traditions that share the peace of Well, that’s been 29 years ago. Christ, within and without. Make a commitment to global peace. There has never been a more crucial Praying for a child is a big thing, but God wants to be involved in every part time to pray, travel, support, or undergird peace in the world. Second, deeply of our lives—the big and the small things of life. Whether you’re a mom who claim an inward, emotional peace that is yours alone. Finally, affirm an is chasing her toddler around the house, a salesman who is getting prepared authentic, passionate peace with others. Like the song from “Frozen,” “Let it for a big presentation, or a student who has exams coming up, God is pleased go!” Give up on holding hurts, wounds, or grievances. Make peace a family when we involve Him in our ALL of our lives. tradition. — Neil Breeden is a vocal coach who has been a professional singer in classical #ChristmasIsJesus music in both the United States and Europe. He is an expert at teaching singers of all vocal types and styles. Neil’s training helps him recognize vocal issues sing— Regina M. Prude is an inspirational speaker, SiriusXM radio host, syndicated ers may be struggling with, thereby helping them enjoy singing again. Call Neil columnist and author. E-mail comments to regina@reginaprude.com. Follow today at 615-440-2263 or email him at neil@neilbreeden.com. her on Facebook (.facebook.com/reginaprude) and Twitter (twitter.com/rprude)

December 2017

S p ecial F eatu r e

NRB International Christian Media Convention Returns to Nashville “Proclaim 18 is a must-attend for Christian communicators. And since every Christian is obligated to share the Gospel, Proclaim 18 is for every believer,” said Dr. Jerry A. Johnson, president and CEO of National Religious Broadcasters (NRB). “This year’s gathering is especially important as it’s our 75th annual convention and we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the modern state of Israel.” Proclaim 18 will be held February 27-March 2, 2018, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville. The event will feature Christian leaders: Kay Arthur, co-founder and CEO emeritus of Precept Ministries International; Hugh Hewitt, host of The Hugh Hewitt Show; David Jeremiah, founder of Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries; writer, director, actor, and author Alex Kendrick; Billy Kim, chairman of Far East Broadcasting Company in South Korea; Eric Metaxas, host of The Eric Metaxas Show; evangelist Luis Palau of the Luis Palau Association; Dennis Prager, host of The Dennis Prager Show; actor Dennis Quaid; Joel C. Rosenberg, founder and chairman of The Joshua Fund; Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California; FOX News co-anchor Kelly Wright; and many more. In addition, musical artists will include MercyMe, Fernando Ortega, and Michael W. Smith. The emcees of the Convention will be twin brothers, authors, and entrepreneurs David and Jason Benham. Every year, thousands of

participants from across the United States and around the world flock to the convention for several days of networking, education, business, and fellowship. Among the highlights of Proclaim 18 will be the award-winning exposition – a bustling, one-stop hub for services, products, and organizations that can help advance your mission. Museum of the Bible returns as a platinum sponsor with a new exhibit that will offer convention attendees a glimpse of its recently-opened 430,000-square-foot facility in Washington, D.C. Also notable at Proclaim 18 are the super sessions, where the “best of the best” in the world in each industry area – church media, digital media, film, international, radio, and TV – will discuss new and changing media and how it is impacting every aspect of our work; industry sessions, where each industry area will host their own extended sessions throughout the convention; and the various networking events and opportunities scattered throughout the convention. For more information visit nrbconvention.org. For questions related to registration, contact the NRB convention registrar at nrb@pcm411.com, or call 212-460-9700. — Kenneth Chan, Director of Communications, National Religious Broadcasters

F am i ly M at te r s

Family Traditions I am all about some tradition. When I think about tradition, I get a sense of safety and security. It is something that I can count on and look forward to. I love it---and I make sure it happens even when it drives my husband bonkers. This one really gets him: Every Christmas when putting up the Christmas tree, I want to have everyone put it up together and Christmas music must be playing. However, it is not just any Christmas music--- it is Mariah Carey’s Christmas. And we don’t start with any other song than “All I want for Christmas is You.” Yep. I look forward to that. Then we put up the ornaments on the tree. Every ornament has a story as we have been intentional about purchasing ornaments from every big vacation or occasion we have journeyed together. And I get to remember those stories as

Nashville Christian Family

we put the ornaments on the tree. That is so special—from the ornament of our first house, to the ornament of our son, Wesley’s, first Christmas, to some of our favorite trips—they are all there. What I look forward to is the day when we will be able to tell Wesley about each ornament and the special story behind them, plus Wesley will be able to add his own. Our tree feels like a tree that has the most bizarre ornaments on it, but it is a remembrance of all that God has done and all that He is doing in our lives. I love that it allows us to slow down and remember the joy and good memories He has given us. — Lindsey Castleman

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

Ask Us About Our 100% Financing Options, And A $15,000 grant!

Peoples Home Equity

has two local owners, we exist because we saw a need for a local mortgage company with a wide array of products, but also an emphasis on customer service. This approach has served the company well. Our strength has always been the strength of the branch managers and loan officers. The belief that the quality of the employee is more important than the quantity of employees has always been of the utmost importance to our team. We are a local company that controls the mortgage transaction from the origination to closing. We deliver superior service on a very consistent basis because we control the loan from the start to finish. The combination of great employees with diverse mortgage products that are priced competitively plus rapid closings has made for a winning formula.

Let us WOW you today, and provide you the best mortgage experience in the industry. Call us today 615-934-9544 • We close on time • We close accurately • We communicate throughout the whole process

Phillip Carson | Manager Peoples Home Equity, Inc. #63371 216 Centerview Drive Suite 240 Brentwood, TN 37027 Phone: 615-934-9544 pcarson@peopleshomeequity.com www.phenashville.com

MARIO VARGAS, MORTGAGE ADVISER

Information is subject to change without notice. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. Subject to credit approval. Peoples Home Equity, Inc. NMLS# 63371

NMLS# 287699

ccording to Duck Dynasty stars Korie and Willie Robertson, 100,000 children currently in the foster care system in the United States are adoptable because their parents’ rights have been terminated. Statistically, 30,000 of those children will never get a “forever family.” The couple has been passionate about adoption since high school and has welcomed three different youth into their home since 2001—an infant, a foreign exchange student and an older child from foster care. In honor of National Adoption Awareness Month, Korie reflects on the beauty of an intentionally large family, the need for adoptive families in the United States, and the re-release of her book Strong and Kind, with added material in honor of newest family member Rowdy, officially adopted last year at 12 years old. Growing up in a family that made hospitality a priority gave Korie a clear model of the kind of mother she wanted to be when she had a home of her own. During her childhood, her parents hosted more than 80 people who needed a temporary place to live. “We had an extra bedroom that was always full,” she remembers. “They took in families, teenagers that were struggling at home, or single mothers with kids. That really impacted me—to say what’s mine is yours, and if I have an extra room, then someone can have it.” Korie’s first exposure to the adoption process came from her high school Bible teacher, who adopted a little boy her senior year and spent much of instruction time talking about how important it is that Christian families care for orphans. She married Willie in 1992, and after John Luke and Sadie were born, becoming pregnant a third time proved difficult. They took it as a sign that it was time to adopt. Five-week-old Will was living with a foster family in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when they brought him home in December 2001. In January, Willie surprised Korie with a 10-year wedding anniversary trip to Cancun. She came back pregnant with Bella. “I had two babies on my hip for a while, and it was a lot of fun,” Korie remembers. “It was a little crazy because of Destructo 1 and Destructo 2. They got into everything.” The next invitation the Robertsons extended to a youth in need of a home was to a foreign exchange student. Sixteen-year-old Rebecca came from Taiwan for one year of high school in 2005. Korie and Willie invited her back the following year, and she never left. Now 28 years old, she had Willie walk her down the aisle at her wedding last year. “Her dad passed away when she was

16 16

Nashville Nashville Christian Christian Family Family

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

In 2016, the Robertsons celebrated the addition of their sixth child, 12-year-old Rowdy. “It’s been a crazy transition but God has been so good and faithful throughout it,” says Korie Robertson.

11, but she still has a mom in Taiwan,” Korie explains. “Her mom was at the wedding, and we sat beside each other as mothers of the bride. So, we are her American family. We never officially adopted her, but she’s ours just like the rest.” In 2015, Korie had just published the book Strong and Kind and was speaking at an adoption fundraiser when presented with the opportunity to provide a permanent home for an older child from Texas foster care. Familiar with the struggles older children often have finding a home, a woman approached her at the event and asked if she knew of anyone who would take a 12-yearold boy. “We hadn’t really planned on adopting again, but we’ve always remained open to God’s tugging on our heart. It was one of those moments that I thought, ‘Alright, God. This is probably us. I called Willie and he said, ‘Why not? We can do this. Why not us?’ We got Rowdy a few weeks later, and he became ours last September officially. He makes six.” Korie explains that bringing an older child into the home and adjusting him to sibling relationships had its challenges but also its rewards. “It’s been incredible to see how our other children have responded to him and accepted him and loved him. At one point Will looked at me and said, ‘Mom, have you noticed that me and Bella don’t fight anymore?’ It was like we all had a greater purpose and everyone just stepped up to the plate.” Rowdy had been raised an only child, and Korie admits that looking back she realizes the transition he had to make—into a family of brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents—was monumental. “There was a point where I asked him, was it harder or easier than you thought it was going to be? I said you can be honest. He said it was harder.” After 11 seasons on A&E, the final episode of Duck Dynasty aired in April 2017. Today Korie continues to work in the Duck Commander® business overseeing licensing for the family’s brands and does philanthropic work as a board member for The Congressional Coalition for Adoption Institute and Help One Now, an organization dedicated to ending extreme poverty

and providing care for orphans worldwide. Korie and Willie also founded the Drive Adoption fund at last year’s Duck Commander 500 NASCAR race at Texas Motor Speedway. DriveAdoption.org gives fans the opportunity to learn about domestic and international adoption, connect with adoptive organizations, and donate financially to the cause. Korie regularly speaks on behalf of older children waiting to be adopted and says youth who turn 18 and age out of foster care are at a much higher risk for homelessness, early pregnancy or drug addiction than those who gain the support of a family. She stresses that for all the wealth in the United States, finding a home for the 100,000 foster youth currently available for adoption should be simple. “We should be able to have homes for those children. They are going to bed each night thinking, ‘Am I going to get a mom and dad? Is this going to happen for me?’ There’s a lot of problems in the world that I know I cannot fix. This is one of the problems that is really solvable,” she says. “A lot of people are scared of what it looks like bringing in an older child and how the rest of the children will react. God doesn’t give us a spirit of fear but one of power that He will take care of our needs. Not that it’s going to be perfect or simple, but raising children biologically isn’t perfect or simple either.” Adopting Rowdy inspired Korie to rerelease a paperback edition of Strong and Kind this year, with additional content reflecting on the legacy she wants to pass down to the next generation. The Afterward is a nod to Rowdy’s assimilation into the Robertson family and how adoption is symbolic to the Christian faith. “I have always loved everything about adoption,” she writes. “How it makes families whole; how it is full of hope and promises to love a child forever and always… how it redeems something broken and makes it whole; how it reminds us that we all are adopted as sons and daughters into God’s family through His Son, Jesus Christ…how it has made our family complete.” — Camille Smith Platt

December 2017

The

BIRTHING CENTER AT SAINT THOMAS MIDTOWN HOSPITAL

+3ĆŤ/!.2%*#ĆŤ5+1Ä&#x201C;ĆŤNashvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s "%./0 in-hospital natural birthing center. The Birthing Center offers expectant families a truly

memorable childbirth experience: holistic, highly specialized maternity care in a home-like environment within the walls

â&#x20AC;˘ Comfortable, HomeLike Birthing Suites

of our beautiful and safe facility. At The Birthing Center, you

â&#x20AC;˘ Full-Size Beds

can soften the lights, play your own music and walk around the room at your leisure in the comfort of your private birthing suite.

â&#x20AC;˘ Labor Tubs â&#x20AC;˘ Birthing Balls â&#x20AC;˘ Squatting Bars â&#x20AC;˘ Labor Stools

â&#x20AC;˘ In-RoomĆŤRefrigerators â&#x20AC;˘ Large Flat Screen Televisions â&#x20AC;˘ Nitrous Oxide forĆŤPain Relief â&#x20AC;˘ Lactation Support â&#x20AC;˘ !.0%"%! ĆŤ 1./!ĆŤ % 3%2!/

To learn moreĆŤ +.ĆŤĆŤ0+ĆŤ "%* ĆŤ +10ĆŤ %"ĆŤ 5+1ĆŤ )!!0ĆŤ 0$!ĆŤ .%0!.% ĆŤ0+ĆŤ !(%2!.ĆŤ 0ĆŤ0$!ĆŤ %.0$%*#ĆŤ !*0!., please call Ä&#x2021;Ä Ä&#x2020;Ä&#x2039;Ä&#x192;Ä&#x20AC;Ä&#x2C6;Ä&#x2039;Ä Ä&#x2020;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x2026;ĆŤor visitĆŤ ! (0$.com/ $! %.0$%*# !*0!..

S p ecial F eatu r e

Christmas is a magical time is Nashville and there’s plenty to do and see, starting with the lighting of Christmas trees and traveling to see beautiful Christmas light displays. Franklin has one of the best displays around with 65,000 lights at 2613 Old Charlotte Pike. You’ll find an actual drive-thru Santa house complete with Santa himself giving away candy canes and taking Christmas wish lists at Chad’s Winter Wonderland at 791 Old Laguardo Road in Lebanon. There’s a big Christmas Parade in Downtown Nashville Saturday December 2nd starting at 8:30 am, and also down Main Street in Goodlettsville at 4pm. Pick out your Christmas tree at Long Hollow Nursery in Gallatin, or Country Cove Christmas tree farm in Murfreesboro. Don’t forget Christmas at the Ryman with Amy Grant and Vince Gill, and the 33rd Annual Dickens of a Christmas in downtown historic Franklin. Christmas just wouldn’t be complete without a picture with Santa! Make some

memories with your children at the Rivergate Mall in Goodlettsville, and the Cool Springs Mall in Franklin. If you’re in Cool Springs, never hesitate to stop in and say hello to me and my staff at Hyundai of Cool Springs. Whether it’s just to kick back in our comfortable customer lounge with complimentary snack and beverage, or to prepare your vehicle for whatever the holidays or the weather has in store for you, you’ll enjoy our family friendly way of doing business. Food, music and family fun are always happening when you celebrate Christmas in Nashville. We hope you get a chance to enjoy the holidays with family, loved ones, friends and neighbors. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours, — Frank Odrobina, Owner of Hyundai and Genesis of Cool Springs

T eachable M om e nts What is the greatest Christmas gift? That gift was predicted in the Old Testament when the prophet Isaiah in Chapter 9 of Isaiah when Isaiah said: “For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.” Do you remember a Christmas when you were promised a gift that you wanted? This greatest Christmas gift of all was promised to each of us centuries before we were even born. But like all gifts, we have to accept it. Doesn’t it sound strange that the greatest Christmas gift of all is not accepted by so many while others acknowledge it, yet put it aside thinking very little about it? Think about how this greatest Christmas gift has changed your life. This greatest Christmas gift has two parts. One is described in John 3:16 and 17 in the New Testament where it tells us that “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world

Nashville Christian Family

to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” So God sent his one and only Son to us because He loved us and then offered eternal life to those who would accept the gift, his Son. Eternal life in Heaven is put into perspective when we consider that there is only one other alternative, eternal life in Hell. No person in his or her right mind would want to go to Hell, particularly for eternity. Instead, we can accept the greatest Christmas gift and spend eternity in Heaven when life on earth is over. Do you acknowledge the fact that God has offered this gift? And there is more. The second part of the greatest Christmas gift is an offer to help us while on this earth, while this life continues. We all face temp-

tation, sadness and indecision. How we can deal with those challenges on earth is described in Ephesians 6:13 which reads “Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” God is here through his son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit to help us face the worst of situations on earth. But this part of the greatest Christmas gift also has to be accepted in order to help us. Are you willing to acknowledge and then accept the greatest Christmas gift? — Kenneth W. Oosting, Ph.D.

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

Encouraging Conversation • Uplifting Music 6–9 a.m. Weekdays 91.7 FM Murfreesboro 98.7 FM Nashville 1200 AM Nashville

dawninnashville.org

K i ds K or n e r

Let’s Decorate the Tree! When my children were little, I looked for creative ways to teach them about God’s BIG LOVE. And now, as Miss PattyCake, I am still doing that. I find the Christmas season to be full of opportunities. In my own family, the Christmas tree was a BIG DEAL. We had fun traditions of shopping for it, taking turns choosing just the right one, my daddy placing it in that old stand with the screws, my mama fussing about the lights, and all of us carefully placing our ornaments as we remembered where we got them, who gave them to us, and what they meant to us. My mom collected little ornaments from travels and other occasions. She saved all those crafty ones made at school or church, so our tree was a collection and a celebration of family and of Jesus’ birthday. My husband and I carried on these traditions with our children. Symbols can be powerful teachers and reminders. This is especially true for children. Many times in the Old Testament God instructed His people to build an altar or set a single stone, and when your children ask why, you say,”This is how far the Lord brought us and what He did for us.” (1 Samuel 7:10). Even simple objects can be symbols of bigger spiritual truth and meaning. They can be transferable concepts which grow in meaning with age. In our culture, a Christmas tree is the perfect place for symbolic expression, and a fun, simple way for you to help your children “see” the bigger story of God’s LOVE. Jack Hayford in his book, Come…and Behold Him, beautifully states, “Since the LIGHT OF THE WORLD HAS COME, lights strung across the roof only “shout it from the housetops.” Candles, stars, gifts and giving, songs and singing, lights and lightheartedness, angel cookies and wise-men ornaments – ALL are consistent with what transpired on our little planet two thousand years ago. We believe in symbolism. As we gather around our tree with JOY, we see in its living branches a symbol of everlasting life given us because of Jesus’ death on the TREE at Calvary. That we celebrate that memory with attention and care is entirely appropriate!” Have you decorated your tree yet? Even if you have, you can add a few more and talk with your children about each one. A round ornament (God’s great big world) A heart (God’s love for the whole world) A snowflake (one of a kind – just like YOU) A candycane ( a shepherd’s staff & a “J” for Jesus) A crown (Jesus is the new born KING) A star ( God’s sign and wise men’s guide) A cross (made of a tree) **If you want to watch Miss PattyCake decorate her tree with these symbols and talk about Jesus’ birthday, go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=pv-d6h60MQg OR purchase her book, Let’s Decorate the Tree, at www.misspattycake.com — Jean Thomason is the live embodiment of the joyful children’s character, “Miss PattyCake”. Visit her website www.misspattycake.com

Nashville Christian Family

Attract to God BIBLE TRUTH Through God we can gain the strength to do things we never imagined. WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS Isaiah 40:31 New International Version (NIV) 31 But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

HANDS-ON EXPERIMENT

Static Electricity Ornament INGREDIENTS • Polystyrene Beads • Clear Plastic Craft Ornament INSTRUCTIONS STEP 1: Remove the cap and hook from the clear plastic craft ornament. Fill the ornament one-fourth of the way with polystyrene beads. Place the cap and hook back onto the ornament. STEP 2: Rapidly shake the ornament and observe. Describe the cause and effect relationship of electric interactions between the polystyrene beads and the clear plastic craft ornament. EXPLANATION The polystyrene beads cling to the sides of the ornament due to static electricity, which is a buildup of an electric charge. Rapidly shaking the ornament builds up negative charges on the beads. These charges attract to the positive charges on the ornament, causing the beads to cling to the ornament. BIBLE CONNECTION We should attract to God like the polystyrene beads attract to the clear plastic craft ornament. When we do, we earn the ultimate strength. — Jason Lindsey - STEM Certified Educator and Meteorologist Hooked on Science l www.hookedonscience.org l Executive Director/Founder

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

C h r i stian S oldi e r

God Answers a Soldier’s Prayers Sergeant York was undoubtedly the greatest hero of WWI. York had shot 18 German machine gunners squarely between the eyes. The whole German battalion surrendered to York -- he marched 132 prisoners back to his superiors. He was given a ticker tape parade in New York after the war. What a lot of people don't know about York was that he was a Christian and originally a pacifist. He was practically illiterate, having only graduated from the second grade (quite common among farmers back then). Attending the little country church where he heard it preached that Jesus commanded us to "love our enemies," he thought that meant no defending your country in war. He applied as a conscientious objector to the local draft board. They denied it stating his church (Church of Christ in Christian Union) had several members who were not pacifists. He wrote a letter to President Woodrow Wilson himself; that didn't work either. After being forced into the army, he warned Captain Danforth "If you force me to shoot any of my fellow men (Germans), I'm a-goin to hold you responsible for their lives before God in Heaven on Judgment Day!" A Major Buxton took an interest in this unusually

reluctant soldier and invited him into his tent for a "theological discussion." Several passages of scripture were shared back and forth but York was not entirely convinced. Buxton told York to take 2 weeks leave of absence, go home and think it over, and if he was still not sure, he would approve his conscientious objector status. Towards the end of that 2 weeks, and still unsure, York decided he needed to pray long and earnestly about it. Up on the face of a rocky outcropping that York called "the yellow doors," (I noticed that yellow rock formation high up on that cliff in the evening sun -- very prominent), York spent all day in prayer, then all night still in prayer, then most of the next day in prayer. After 36 hours he had his answer. His mother saw him walking back and from his gait and demeanor, fearfully exclaimed "You're a-goin"! He told his mother "I'm a-goin to war with 'the sword of the Lord and of Gideon'." He assured his mom that he was coming back from the war unharmed. "How can you possibly know that?" she asked.

York explained that God had personally given him an assurance that it was right to defend his country and that as long as he believed in Him, not one hair of his head would be harmed. People today can laugh at that if they want to, but I personally believe God heard his prayer and answered York. Who else do you know that took out an entire German machine gunner battalion single handedly and returned from the war with literally not a hair of his head harmed, when fellow soldiers near him were riddled with bullets? I also think there is an important word of encouragement for us in this true story. You don't have to be a highly educated person for God to answer your prayers. You don't have to be a Bible expert for God to lovingly hear and answer you. You simply need to be devout and sincere. Take your personally vexing problems to the Lord in heartfelt, earnest prayer. I'm not going to tell you exactly how, but God will find a way to answer your prayers. — Stephen Rowland is chaplain of The Knights For Christ, the Columbia chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association

P otluck

Christmas Family Recipe

My mom is one of my most favorite people in the world. Just today she texted me to tell me that both she and my dad were proud of me—and I am 35 years old. I sit with people in counseling sessions that yearn to hear those words from either parent. I am grateful and thankful. One thing that I am also thankful for is that my mom had a special treat she would make for Christmas, candy cane cookies. When I moved out, I tried to make them myself— and they were a disaster. I burned them on the bottom and the colors all twisted together in to one weird-looking candy cane. All that to say—I probably should call my mom and have her share her secrets to making them. The secret that I can share is to make them with someone---that is what makes these so special. They are fun to make with those you love. Make these cookies an experience—not only in the making of them, but also in the sharing of them (even if they are burnt on the bottom). — Lindsey Castleman

Candy Cane Cookies

1 cup sugar 1 cup butter or margarine, softened 1/2 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon peppermint extract 1 egg 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon red food color 2 tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candies 2 tablespoons sugar Stir together 1 cup sugar, the butter, milk, vanilla, peppermint extract and egg in large bowl. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Divide dough in half. Stir food color into 1 half. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours. Heat oven to 375ºF. Stir together peppermint candy and 2 tablespoon sugar; set aside. For each candy cane, shape 1 rounded teaspoon dough from each half into 4-inch rope by rolling back and forth on floured surface. Place 1 red and white rope side by side; press together lightly and twist. Place on ungreased cookie sheet; curve top of cookie down to form handle of cane. Bake 9 to 12 minutes or until set and very light brown. Immediately sprinkle candy mixture over cookies. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

December 2017

H ealthy L ivi ng

The Best Foods for Controlling Blood Sugar To say food plays a big part in our lives is an understatement. Not only can food affect our mood, but it can also help with battling chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. Did you know that there are 84 million Americans with prediabetes—the precursor to type 2 diabetes—and only 9 million are aware of their condition? When a person is diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, they maintain their blood glucose through medication, exercise, weight loss, and changing their eating habits. However, it can be difficult to understand what “changing your eating” looks like on a practical level. So, let’s take a closer look at the major food categories to identify which items are the best choices for controlling blood sugar. Protein The great thing about protein is that it is found in more than just chicken, fish, and pork. There are plant-based proteins like beans, peas, and nuts, as well as cheese and eggs, which you can consume and still get your recommended dose for the day. The biggest takeaway for protein is to make sure that it is lean and low in saturated fats. This means staying away from processed meats. Grains Focus on whole grains since they are full of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals.

Brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa are good options. It’s important to avoid refined grains—like white or enriched wheat—that only include the starchy part of the grain and are missing the nutrients that whole grains provide. Dairy Dairy products do contain carbohydrates in the form of lactose, so we want to be aware of serving sizes and opt for fat-free or low-fat. The best dairy options are fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese. Go for fresh cheese, not processed. Avoid items that contain high amounts of fat or sugar, like anything with “cream” in the title and yogurts with added sugars and artificial sweeteners. Vegetables The vegetables you choose can be packaged in different ways, whether frozen, canned, or juiced. Just stay away from items that are high in sodium and fat, and consume only small amounts of starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn. Try to eat fresh, frozen and canned vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and asparagus, and pick vegetable juices without added sodium, fat, or sugar.

Fruit The best choices are fresh, frozen or canned fruits without added sugars. If you enjoy canned fruits, choose ones in juice or light syrup. Fruit can be eaten in exchange for other sources of carbohydrates in your meal plan such as starches, grains, or dairy. Fats Monounsaturated fats are called "good or healthy" fats because they can lower your bad (LDL) cholesterol. Try avocados, almonds, olives, and cooking with olive oil. Avoid saturated fats and trans fats, which are known for raising blood cholesterol levels. They can be found in butter, gravy, and processed foods. — Kelli Mitchuson, YMCA Health Innovation Specialist, and Lizzie Waldo, YMCA Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

SLOW DOWN!! It seems like every time I ask someone how they are doing the answer is always “I’m exhausted” or “I’m so busy that I haven’t had time for anything lately”. Why is everyone so tired all the time? Are we as humans just losing our ability to thrive? Or is there not even a possibility of not being exhausted and too busy all of the time in our lives? I believe that we have lost our ability to REST. Most people see resting as just sleeping or doing nothing on the couch, but resting is so much more. Resting is not a passive and apathetic thing, it is a skill that we must develop in order to thrive. We must learn how to rest. Resting looks different for everyone depending on how their personality type can re charge. For me… a little Netflix by myself or hanging with a friend one on one rejuvenates me pretty fast. For others being with a group of friends is just what they need. See how your personality type rests and set specific time aside for those types of things. One of the leaders in my life, Joel Evrist, once said that we must “Run to work and walk to rest”. This brother is one of the busiest men I know. He has

Nashville Christian Family

several jobs, has a wonderful family, disciples many men, and still sets time aside to stay fit and healthy. How can he be excellent at all these things? He knows how to rest and when he needs to rest. When he says “run to work and walk to rest” he means that when it comes to work we need to get there and get it done, but when it comes to rest we can’t be rushing around to get to a place of perfect rest because then we start striving to get there. We end up just rushing around the whole time that we have to recharge. We must let there be peace in our rest and in the time getting there. If we don’t, then we will not fully reap the benefits and energy from that time. So in this busy season… find the time to rest. Start getting better at the skillset of how and when to rest. If we rest well we will work even better. — Ashton Tate, Personal Trainer, Franklin, Tenn. Helping people live a balanced and healthy lifestyle is the heartbeat of what I do. glorytogloryfitness.com glorytogloryfitness@gmail.com

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

IT'S A

Fish Family Christmas CONTINUOUS CHRISTMAS MUSIC ALL SEASON LONG!

Listen at 93.7, 94.1, or 104.9fm, online at 94fmthefish.net,Â or download the App!

presented by

December 2017

DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES. STRONGER BONDS.

Deer Run

SUMMER CAMPS DAY ★ OVERNIGHT ★ FAMILY

GIVE THE

GIFT

of FRIENDSHIPS, MEMORIES and LIFE-CHANGE Purchase Gift Certificates or Give a Scholarship to a Child or Family

DeerRun.camp 615.794.2918

35 MILES SOUTH OF NASHVILLE NEAR HISTORIC DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN

CAMPS & RETREATS PSALM 42:1

als

un R r e e o at D L E RO M

…

E KE E W E C AN

NDS

NDS E K E E TER W TIE S

COUP GH PAR U D Y A E I A D R D R H R A T M THE DING ★ BIR O M & ON ★ TE AM BUIL S S T R A E E H R T FAT URE REC RE D E Z I T M N ADVE CUSTO 26

Nashville Christian Family

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

S p ecial F eatu r e Will It Be A Holiday Or A Holy Day?

F aith @ W or k

I am a missionary to many nations now, but years ago when I was pastoring in the Chicago suburbs, folks would say, "I'll bet the holidays are going to be really hard for you this year." For pastors, we have extra services, parties and celebrations we must attend, and then the additional strain of helping our congregation navigate through a season that is difficult for many of them. For some, this can be a depressing and downright devastating time. Yet this year, perhaps we could see them with a new attitude—even with a new hope. Things can be different, because God established Holy Days, and therefore they can be enjoyed and celebrated with significant purpose. Long ago in Jewish history, God established special Holy Days called "Feasts." There were seven every year, and three of them were a week long! They were at least partly about taking out time to fast from the world and feast on God. They hinged on personal cleansing, intimate worship, and extreme celebration of His greatness. They also foretold about future events— some fulfilled already, some not yet—events that would shape the course of history (or as we Christians like to say, “His story”). In a nutshell, these events were completely and totally about acknowledging and honoring our Amazing Creator and His redemptive plan, while getting our eyes off our fallen creation for just awhile. But then came holidays. Many of the current holidays we observe are presented to be and even seem like they are about celebrating God, but really at the core, they are not. If they were really solely about God, they would not be disappointing in the least. These man-made traditions and ideas that have invaded our holidays focus on people and things—get-togethers, gift exchanging, decorations, greeting cards, romance— and that is why they have the capacity to leave us wanting, empty, disappointed, and lonely. They were Holy Days at one time, perhaps, but now have transitioned to holidays, designed to be about us—our parties, our traditions, our families, our memories, even our own ideas about worship. But our best efforts at trying to successfully remake Holy Days into holidays, have fallen short. Not that it is wrong to embrace family traditions, or to gather as families, or to celebrate life and loved ones. But if we truly want to find fulfillment, celebration, joy, and peace, we must return throughout the year to God's way of making the Holy Days about Him, and not about us. When we get our eyes off the flesh, and focus upon the Holy, we’ll gradually find that there is no room for emptiness, loneliness, disappointment, or despair. These days become a Feast for the heart and soul! Christmas in particular is not a day, for we do not know the exact day our Lord came to be born in flesh. It can be a great season! God never wants us to observe His Feast days as just another religious ritual. In the quietness of our hearts, or perhaps with our families and churches, we can once again learn about the true prophetic meanings and then observe His Holy Days by keeping our celebration primarily and simply about Him. It is one great way to begin healing a lonely heart for every day of December and every day in the new year. Holy Days are once again upon us. How will you now prepare?

What is freedom? I like William Wallace’s cry for Freedom in Braveheart. A friend and I recently talked about books we have read. I suggested Unbroken to him and he suggested How to Stop Worrying and Start Living to me. When we saw each other again the next week I asked him if he had read Unbroken. He said no; but he had read six other books (he works for motivational speakers and has to keep up with them). He asked me if I had read the book he mentioned to me. I said, “I thought the book was great and I had already started doing it – ‘Stop Worrying and Start Living.’” He said, “No; it was How to Stop Worrying and Start Living.” I said, “I am doing it.” Can you imagine summing up a book in its title? That is the only book I have sped read and incorporated into my life without picking it up. By the way, the Word says, “Perfect love casts our fear.” I was thinking about this today and realized Jesus is the only perfect love. He said, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus taught, “Therefore doth my father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.” “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself.” “I have the power to lay it down, and I have the power to take it up again.” “This commandment have I received of my Father.” In the Word Jesus is described as a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Jesus took up his life again after three days in the tomb. Paul said “[t]his thing was not done in a corner” when he presented his case to King Agrippa after he was arrested for being a minister and witnessing of seeing Jesus and other things Jesus made visible to Paul. He called it a mystery. Jesus said, “if you have seen Me you have seen my Father.” Wow! The creator of the Universe wants to be our friend and loves us so much He laid down his life for us. That has to be perfect love. Jesus taught a sparrow does not fall to the ground without our heavenly Father’s knowledge. That is very comforting. Sometimes His comfort is the only balm for our hurts. Jesus said, “If you continue in my word, you are truly disciples of Mine and you will know the truth and the truth will make you free.” Truth, freedom, and an incomparable friendship are all provided through Jesus as part of our walk with Him and our Father. — Steven Compton

— Mark Simpson

December 2017

Nashville Christian Family

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

P ar e nti ng P oi nts

Co-parenting at Christmas… Tis the Season to Share the Children “I wish my parents would not argue and fight over me at Christmas… it takes all the joy out of it! Sometimes I don’t even want to come back to Florida to see anyone because it’s so stressful!” – Shannon, age 23 (parents divorced since age 12) This year marks the 16th Christmas I will “share” my daughter with her dad during Christmas. We’ve been divorced since she was two and we trade off where one gets Thanksgiving and one gets Christmas. Early on we decided not to “divide Christmas” at 6pm on Christmas Eve since his extended family is in Georgia and mine is in Colorado. That has served us very well over the years! It has given us the freedom to travel and give our daughter a relaxing “full experience” wherever she is each year. As I reflect on the journey of “sharing kids at Christmas” I know that for some this may be your first year to be without your children at Christmas, maybe your divorce is not even final. This will be hard, but I promise it gets better! The sadness and the hurt won’t linger forever. Over the future years you will find a “new rhythm” of life and a way to still enjoy your alone time when your children are away. I always tried to enlist other friends and families to celebrate with, see dollar movies and to just hang out with so that my time “alone” was still very full and meaningful for myself. That was a “gift” to me! If I was stable then I was a better mom for Angelia. For those that have been divorced for years, you may find that this is the time of year that your stress with “the ex” is increased because of schedules and unmet expectations. My encouragement to you would be to “stay stable” and give yourself permission to celebrate and enjoy every single day of December!

Please - don’t get hung up on the 24th or 25th being the “most important days” because when we are parents it’s really a celebration 365 days a year! And don’t worry if the other parent has more money or gives bigger gifts – 20 years from now what your children will remember is how you loved them, how you baked cookies or sang carols or watches Christmas movies together. The kids will never remember who spent the most money on them, they will remember the love and laughter. Focus on just enjoying your children and maximizing the time you have with them. And then when they are with the other parent, ENJOY YOURSELF!! Make fun plans and enjoy the time away - - your kids need to know that you are happy and stable even when they are with the other parent. That is a “gift of peace” you can give them at Christmas and every single day of the year. Co-parenting at Christmas… though the seasons change the sharing of the children will continue into the future with grandchildren, in-laws and much more. Enjoy every moment and when possible encourage them to not only love you but to the love and enjoy their other parent and their extended families as well. The freedom to love everyone is by far the most priceless “gift” divorced and remarried parents will ever give their children! May God bless our homes with love and laughter and our own version of “happily ever after!” — Tammy Daughtry, Co-Founder of The Center for Modern Family Dynamics in Nashville, Tenn. For free resources please visit www.ModernFamilyDynamics.com.

In His Grip

What Is It You Treasure? Ben Hogan is considered one of the greatest golfers in the game’s storied history and it could arguably be said that he has had the greatest influence on generations of players. His book, Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf, is a timeless classic. Written in 1957, it changed the way people played the game. The game was good to Hogan too. At a time when the winner’s purse was quite modest, especially by today’s standards, Hogan carved out a nice living. However, one of Hogan’s defining characteristics was his love for the game. He loved everything about golf and for years was one of golf ’s dominant players. He won nine major championships along the way, including two Masters. He once said, “If The Masters offered no money at all, I’d be trying just as hard.” Financial reward was not the driving force for why Hogan played golf. How about you? How do you view money? Ouch, and you thought this was a devotional column. Actually, it is. Often people track with the Christian life until the conversation turns to money, then they check out. But did you know that the financial is spiritual? Yeah, it really is, and your attitude toward money and material possessions most times is an indicator of where you are spiritually.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to love Him more than we love our stuff, which is why Jesus said, “Where your heart is, there your treasure will be also.” Jesus is saying it comes down to the attitudes and motivations of your heart. If your motivation in giving is to get, then you’ve missed the point. God’s expectation is that your love for Him drives your giving…period. Let’s be honest. If God never gave you anything else in this life other than reconciliation to Him and eternal life through Jesus, you really do “have it all.” The best approach is to be generous and joyous in your giving. Let to love of Jesus be your motivation. Be content with what you have, and if God grants you continued material blessing, consider that He may be doing so to enable you to be more generous toward others. This Christmas, treasure Jesus Christ above all else and be generous with what God has given you materially. Merry Christmas! — 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.

December 2017

December 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

HELP WANTED Now Hiring Basketball Referees The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department is seeking referees and supervisors for the youth and adult basketball leagues. Applicants must be able to work evenings or Saturdays from December through March, and can earn up to $22 per hour. Must be 16 to apply. Experience in playing or officiating is preferred. Reliable transportation and a background check are required. For more information, contact HunterE@ williamson-tn.org.

Hill have immediate openings for part-time lifeguards. Schedules are flexible, and wages are competitive. The positions require current Red Cross Lifeguard and CPR/AED certification. To apply, visit www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/jobs.aspx, or apply in person at the Williamson County Administrative Complex, 1320 West Main St., Franklin, TN 37064. For more information about employment as a lifeguard, contact Kristin Pitts at (615) 370-3471, ext. 2122.

vivor. Registration and Networking - 10:45 AM to 11:30 AM. Lunch & Program - 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Fairview Church, 1660 Leeville Pike, Lebanon, TN. Early Bird Registration is $20 for Members and $30 for Non-Members. Registration at Door is $35. For more details and to Pre-Register, visit tnchristianchamber.org. CHRSTMAS DAY DECEMBER 25

ONGOING

Last Tuesday of every month except December Tennessee Christian Chamber of Commerce – Monthly Luncheon EGroups - Networking/Leads Meetings held CALENDAR in these locations: Brentwood, Cool Springs/Franklin, DownDecember 12 town, Hendersonville, Mt. Juliet, Special December Luncheon – Immediate Job Openings For LifeMurfreesboro. For meeting 10:45 AM - 1:00 PM - TN Christian locations, times and dates or guards -Flexible Schedules and Chamber of Commerce will have a Competitive Wages Offered - Apply for more information about the special event Luncheon on Decem- Chamber and events, visit www. now to join the Aquatics team at the ber 12 in Lebanon, TN. Keynote Williamson County Parks and Rectnchristianchamber.org or email SPEAKER & Author will be Keith reation Department (WCPR). The rstringfellow@yahoo.com. three indoor pools operated by WCPR Edmonds. Keith says that he is not a victim of child abuse; but s a surin Franklin, Brentwood and Spring

A bout O u r A dve rti s e r s

Adult Volleyball Registration Coed & Women’s Leagues Forming -The Athletics Division of Williamson County Parks and Recreation announces open registration for: Winter coed 6’s volleyball in Franklin on Thursday nights; and women’s 4’s on Sunday afternoons in Franklin. Registration ends 12/28 or when leagues are full. On-line registration is now open at www.wcparksandrec.com. The team registration fee is $200. For additional information, contact Lance Westbrooks at (615) 790-5792.

for the Latest GOOD NEWS www.facebook.com/NashvilleChristianFamily + SHARE the GOOD NEWS with Your Friends!

Please support these local businesses that support Nashville Christian Family with their advertising. Support us by patronizing them.

Neil Breeden – musiccityvoice.com, 615-440-2263

Moody Radio – www.moodyradio.org, 312-329-4300

Bott Radio Network – www.bottradionetwork.com, 615-871-1160

National Religious Broadcasters – www.nrb.org, 202-543-0073

Deer Run Camps and Retreats – www.DeerRun.camp, 615-794-2918

New Beginnings – Cherie Jobe – www.cheriejobe.com - 615-653-1096

Evangelical Christian Credit Union – www.eccu.org, 800-634-3228

Peoples Home Equity Mortgage – Phillip Carson – www.phenashville.com , 615-934-9544

5BY5 Agency – www.5by5agency.com, 615-595-6391c

P.E.S.T., Inc. – www.pestinc.net, 615-382-9774

Genesis of Cool Springs – www.genesisofcoolsprings.net, 877-886-8448

Saint Thomas Health – www.sths.com, 615-284-LIFE

Hyundai of Cool Springs – www.hyundaiofcoolsprings.com,

The Fish 94FM – www.94fmthefish.net, 615-367-2210

877-886-8448

TN Christian Chamber of Commerce – www.tnchristianchamber.org 615-815-8765

Lee Company – www.leecompany.com, 615-567-1000

WayFm – www.wayfm.com, 615-261-9293

Mattress Inn – www.mattressinn.com, 931 489-1993

YMCA of Middle TN – www.ymcamidtn.org, 615-259-9622

Molly Maid – www.mollymaid.com, 615-794-0200

NashvilleChristian ChristianFamily Family 3030 Nashville

www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com

December 2017