Community Spirit Magazine, September-October 2019

CONNECTING CHRIST’S COMMUNITY #GoDoBe

PUTTING OUR FAITH INTO ACTION PG. 20

INTENTIONAL DISCIPLESHIP OF OUR CHILDREN

PG. 23

NATALIE STITT

PART 2 OF HER THESIS ON RESTORING “THE DISABLED” TO GODLIKENESS PG. 25

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2019

MAKING DREAMS INTO REALITY “Our mission is to provide the best product at the best price that gives our clients the best value. It’s pretty simple,” said John Wyrrick of John Wyrrick, LLC Custom Homes and Remodel.

Given a minute, I might have said the exact same thing to describe his company. John and his team have had their hands on one of my homes, my sister’s home, my best friend’s home and her parent’s home just to name a few. If there was a nit-picky request to be made—I guarantee one of this crew made it. Two of the houses were sold several years later—above market and within weeks of listing. The other two, if they ever part with them, will do the same. There’s no question. I suppose selling a house within a few years for both a profit and in record time, that sort of confirms the mission.

Having built, sold, and remodeled homes, I can attest to the costly casualties when you pick the wrong team—costly in time, money and quality. Mark Twain was spot on with the concept that the difference between the almost right word and the right word is the difference between the lightning bug and lightning.”

When you’re talking about builders and remodelers, make no mistake—they can look similar on the outside, but the difference in their core can make or break your project (and YOU!).

Having worked with John, his character has always been evident in the way he handles his business. He and his wife, Pam, built this business while raising four children in South Tulsa.

Attending Church on the Move, they also host a Bible study group in their home for their friends. The Wyrrick’s desire to follow Christ flows from their home life to their business.

John said, “We believe in listening to the client. We try to keep people in a good and enjoyable place through a challenging process. We do weekly meetings to be completely transparent as we go. We do fixed cost or a cost-plus model, whichever makes the client more comfortable.” Since John ends up friends with most of his clients, he really enjoys getting to know them in the process.

John has worked hard to vet his crew over the years. He said, “We strive for the best service we can give. Our team knows the client is in charge. We know and understand that it is an honor and privilege to serve them.”

John said, “As a father, I tried to stay focused on our kids. We remained very selective in our projects, building houses from several thousand to over 10,000 square feet for carefully chosen clients. With the kids grown, we have time to offer our higher level of service to a larger number of clients. It’s pretty exciting, really.” He continued, “When your standards are high for what you want to deliver, you don’t accept more jobs than you can handle. In this business, you can’t. We have been doing this for 26 years with new homes and over 36 years all in. So, we’re committed to doing what we say we will do.”

John’s design team also works with clients to prepare and spec out the job together. John said, “We can use the client’s plan or we offer complete design services as well. Pre-construction budgets let our clients know exactly where they are prior to starting. We try to eliminate variables and changes up front so the actual process is more enjoyable. When clients know exactly what they are getting and what it will cost, they end up really satisfied with the results. That’s a win-win.”

John Wyrrick, LLC Custom Homes and Remodel is ready to work with you to see what it will take to make your dreams a reality.

Give them a call and get on their schedule for a consultation today!

JOHN WYRRICK, LLC Custom Homes and Remodel CONTACT: Phone: 918-510-0331 | Email: jwyrrick@sbcglobal.net SERVICES: Custom Homes | Custom Remodels | Outdoor Living Spaces | Full Design and Plan Services

L E T T E R F R O M THE EDITOR Love is a verb. It is.

It takes a lot of different forms. For one, when our community is in crisis, we step up, step in and make things happen. This month, you’ll read about how some churches in Sand Springs are doing just that, but they need your help. The floods are not over. There are so many critical needs. We need churches from the surrounding communities to stay in the game and help. It’s not for someone else to do. It is for us to do— make no mistake.

In the same vein, we have an actionable responsibility to love our children enough to disciple them (teach them) in Christ. Sounds formal? It kind of is. (and it kind of isn’t).

However, it needs to be in the front of our minds. Our children are walking away from their faith in ­college. Seven out of ten is the stat we’ve heard, who are swayed by life or college to travel a new path away from God. Those paths can (and have) led to destruction. Are you purposefully guarding your child’s heart and mind? Are you taking the time to train them in what matters most or does it fall behind soccer/ dance/football/sport du jour?

Training the next generation of Christians was so critical, Jesus saved the discussion until the end; He was ascending into Heaven and gave the disciples one last summary commandment. This command, to GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES, had to be important. He didn’t want them to forget their purpose. After all, they were the ones He had chosen and trained. He sent the Holy Spirit to empower them and off they went. Sharing Christ.

Baptizing. Teaching. We could all take a pause to think through discipleship/discipling in our own lives but it’s one of the critical roles we have as Christian parents for our children.

As you read about discipling, open your mind to think through how discipling happened with Jesus. Much of it was through his teaching.

However, the disciples also watched Jesus. They experienced life with him. As they walked together, they saw Jesus respond to the disabled.

They saw him welcome the little children. They saw him decide to feed the 5,000 instead of sending them home, as he continued teaching.

They saw his command and control of the word of God. Jesus discipled formally with teaching, but also simply by example. As parents, what our children see in us becomes a major part of their core foundation. Who you are really matters 4 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

more than who you say you are—and not just to them. It matters to everyone trying to figure out what this Jesus stuff is all about.

My daughter loves “Inside Out,” a cartoon showing all the developments inside the mind of a child from birth. “Goofball Island” is a key memory. It’s the fun side that does things like play in the house with family. My daughter crowned her grandfather a king on “Goofball Island” with her a queen. She said, “Grandpa’s silly dancing with me definitely makes him a king. Daddy is always silly with me—ALWAYS. Grandma is a queen as well.” The point? We come from a family of silliness mixed in with the serious. It’s a trait my daughter inherits from her family by our example of how we live.

Discipling our children is about teaching the ways of God. It’s very much taught by example— maybe even more so than by formal teaching.

However, both blend together nicely to create a foundation in Christ. It matters.

Speaking of children learning from great examples, this month we are also wrapping up Natalie Stitt’s thesis. We have received so much positive feedback on her article and her heart. Having seen a glimpse inside her family, as the child of our Governor, I think we can all attest to the fact that she likely gained much of her generous spirit from her parents. We conclude sharing her thesis this month by giving ideas for churches on where to get help starting ministries to bring in the differently abled. We found a lovely church, Eastland Assembly, with 26 years experience impacting this population for Christ, as well as touching their caregivers and their families.

Eastland Assembly helps us all understand it’s not difficult—it just takes a heart wanting to reach folks with the good news of Christ.

There’s lots more inside, but we really challenge you to sit down with a coffee and pray through some of these topics to see where God might be leading you. Love takes many different forms, but rest assured, the form that matters most is actionable.

So grab your java and start your prayers—and get out there and spread some of that Jesus lovin’ everywhere.

Let’s do this! #GoDoBe Teresa Goodnight Editor

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Omega League Media Staff CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Vickie Wilson, Natalie Stitt, and Mary L. Willians CONTRIBUTING MONTHLY WRITERS Ryan Goodnight, Teresa Goodnight, Mike Henry Sr., Andrea Stephens, and Randy C. Cowell, LUTCF, CFP®, CRPC® DESIGNER Laura Carter COVER PHOTO Ryan Goodnight DISTRIBUTION Community Spirit Magazine is distributed to churches, schools, restaurants, businesses, and direct to home subscriptions. Email to deliver to your church or subscribe online for a copy sent directly to your home.

Claims by advertisers, guest authors, authors, and the opinions of writers within this publication do not necessarily represent the views of Community Spirit Magazine or its publisher. Omega League Media is not responsible for the reliability, suitability, timeliness of content submitted although best effort is always made to accommodate all requests appropriately.

Scriptures marked NLT are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW LIVING TRANSLATION (NLT): Scriptures taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW LIVING TRANSLATION, Copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation.

Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.

All rights reserved. Used by permission.

BIBLE VERSE Romans 15:5-6 “May the God of ENDURANCE and ENCOURAGEMENT grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that TOGETHER you may with ONE VOICE glorify the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” #onevoice #together #ChurchwithaCapitalC OUR MISSION Go into the world. Jesus said Go. To all of us.

Do Something. Get in the game.

Be like Christ. Show His love.

Go. Do. Be.

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C O M M U N I T Y S P I R I T M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R – O C T O B E R 2 019

CONTENTS 25

20

25

28

20 23

3 Building a Dream House with John Wyrrick

4 Letter from the Editor

6 Core: What’s Standing in YOUR Way? The Great

8

Commission Is OUR Mission

City Elders: Oklahoma Becomes a Catalyst for Transforming Government

11 Man2Man: Raising a Red Flag 13 Dr. Pfanstiel Tips On Parenting from Experience 16 Family Fun: Fruit Salad Isn’t All That’s Yummy!

17 Heart2Heart: Everyday Discipleship 18 Are you a distressed soccer mom? Enter Karla Partridge of Totally Organized.

19 Rise & Shine: Model Faith to Make Disciples 20 Cover Story: Love Is a Verb 22 Senior Moments: Why Call for the Elders of Our Church?

23 Intentional Discipleship of Our Children.

Say What?

25

28

31 Financial: A Childlike Financial Plan

Student Impact: Natalie Stitt’s Thesis on Restoring “the Disabled” to Godlikeness, Part 2 Eastland Assembly: Where the Love Doesn’t Stop with a Ramp

COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 5

CORE What’s Standing in YOUR Way?

The Great Commission Is OUR Mission Written by Teresa Goodnight

I

n the July issue, I shared a story about nearsighted children. Dr. Chenoweth had my full attention, explaining how he could stop most nearsightedness for children in its tracks with CRT, potentially preventing eye diseases later in life that could lead to blindness. I was so amazed, I started asking parents who had children with glasses, “Are they nearsighted?” I’m not kidding. I did it across Epcot, Hollywood, and the Magic Kingdom. I wanted everyone to hear the good news.

Then God kicked me in the shins. HARD. Why in the world do I not have that same gusto (if not greater of course) for sharing Christ with people? When you have such incredible news—you just can’t HELP it.

Right? You want to share it. I am not sure I ever have had that same gusto for telling folks about Christ. Why? I mean preventing potential blindness is big news.

Don’t get me wrong. You should check out the July issue. But really? Knowing Jesus makes an eternal difference. Every single day people lose their life without knowing Jesus. Every single day, they are destined to be separated from God for eternity. How in the world is THAT life altering news not coming out of my lips with everyone I met? I have the information that could save their soul for crying out loud.

I used to stop at booths in the mall with the Campus Crusade Four Spiritual Laws booklet in tote. I USED to know sharing Jesus was THE most important thing I could ever share with anyone. If you’re reading this magazine, you likely already know Christ. (If you don’t—we need to talk!) So, you would agree what God did for us sending His son—it was a bit monumental. Life changing. It restores man to a relationship with our heavenly Father.

6 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

Why doesn’t it flow into my conversation with such zesty purpose as it did with the news about protecting a kid’s vision?

What in the whole big world is more important than sharing the life-altering, eternal redemption found in how He removed our sins as far as the east is from the west?

Judging by my life?

EVERYTHING. Anything.

Ugh. I considered myself a spiritually charged evangelist when I joined the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ (now CRU).

It’s an organization built around Jesus’ basic ministry: You go share Christ. You bring in the new believers. You teach them. Then, you challenge them to go out and do the same. Discipleship 101.

I wasn’t as good as CRU founder, Dr. Bill Bright, at getting someone into a meaningful conversation about Christ, but I was learning. Watching. Trying to get better. It was an active pursuit while I was in college and while I was on staff. It mattered. Then somewhere along the way, it didn’t. It faded? Maybe having a job and other responsibilities took away my focus?

Whatever it was—it faded until it was so close to non-existent, it simply moved from my priorities—from my heart.

Really, you have to wonder. How did a CORE message from Christ get pushed out from our daily duties as His followers?

I can tell you for me, it was not a difficult push. I believe in reaching people for Christ. However, it was much, MUCH

easier to slip into a complacent mode.

In fact, I slipped so much that I can’t tell you when I personally shared Christ with someone in a one-on-one situation aside from mission’s trips. I can’t. It’s not that I’m shy. I’ve sold large multi-million dollar deals to the largest telecom giants out there. I can talk to a wall. It comes straight down from my grandfather to my mother in my DNA. I mean, come on—I’m asking strangers about their kid’s eye condition on the other side of the country. My limits aren’t exactly pressing me in.

You know what I think? I think I slowly shifted my focus onto things of this world. I spent my time like other things mattered more. I just kinda let the “Good News” of life everlasting, salvation from sins, and finding a way to live a more meaningful life under God’s grace and out of shame fall out of the front of my mind. Maybe Satan, the oh so powerful distractor, snuck in through a tiny crack and repurposed my focus? Seems like his game. He is quite the master. Regardless of how it happened—I’m still in control of it. It is still off track, but I’m repenting, confessing and hopping back onto God’s path. I can tell you this: It was NOT going to get back on track unless I purposefully moved it back.

The Great Commission is a direct command in its simplest form. The last Jesus shared before heading to Heaven. I guess it might have been important from his perspective?

Have you been there?

Are you there right now?

Have you let the passion for the things that matter most disappear? Let them get pushed behind everything else?

A Look Back at The Call One thing Jesus did was to focus His teaching on the things that mattered. He didn’t waste time. He knew He didn’t have much time to train His disciples if they were to be the instruments for spreading the news of His death, burial, and resurrection. He poured into them. He lived out the “Great Commission” by example and then challenged them to repeat the process.

It didn’t take years in the church to train His disciples. He spent about 3 years with them. However, they were certainly a part of His ministry as they were being trained through doing life together. They were reaching people with Him. Some of the best training parts in the Bible are Jesus’ ministry days shared by the disciples.

(Mathew, Mark, Luke, John). The New Testament shares the teachings as the disciples themselves learned more and guided new believers to keep them in line with Jesus’s teachings.

How long have you known Christ? Been in the church? Been receiving from head pastors teaching into your life? It’s quite likely you are more than well trained.

I suspect most reading are not super new believers. I bet many, like myself, have known Christ for decades, but somehow missed that following His command to go and make disciples wasn’t really optional.

It’s certainly not a call for just the pastors of the church. In fact, I could (I will) write an entire article on the role of pastors in the Church. We put a large burden upon their shoulders they were never meant to carry alone.

Jesus called the 12 disciples because He needed to train up a group, who could share the good news. He trained the 12, who got to experience His teaching. Those 12, who after Judas betrayed Him became 11, did exactly what Jesus called them to do. Spiritual multiplication. In fact, through their obedience and of course God’s Holy Spirit, therein lies the path for how you and I came to know Christ. They are our spiritual forefathers.

So if I’m not doing it and you’re not doing it, then who in the world is reaching, teaching and training the next generation for Christ? Just the pastors? I need to break it to you. That kind of teaching does

If you are wondering: The time is NOW. At the moment, Americans aren’t at risk of losing our lives for sharing Christ. We still live in a free country (for now). Others are not so lucky. I felt the fear while on a missions trip in China. I saw the guns in the hotel lobby. I knew to be careful what I shared. Here in America though, we are free to have those conversations without much fear of harmful persecution.

There, they can be put in prison for having a Bible study in their home.

So, I challenge you, as I’m challenging myself, with Jesus’ command to go. Let’s get back to our CORE purpose. Let’s see what that kind of focus can do in our lives and in other’s lives.

It’s a message that can change the world one lost soul at a time. not fall on just the pastors of the Church to pursue. Goodness. They’ve been pouring into most of us for decades. They are probably worn out waiting for us to rise up and take on our role alongside of them.

It’s something we can do with Bible studies—Discipleship 101. We teach the basics of the faith (saved by grace, not works, nothing we can do to earn it) kind of stuff. Then, we take the new believers into the world and show them how to teach those studies. We show them how to share Christ. The greatest lessons are by example as much as by teaching from the Bible. In fact, I would put forth that the Millennial generation is constantly searching for people who do what they say. They want examples to follow.

We all aren’t called to use the Four Spiritual Laws kind of method. However, we should understand the Gospel enough and employ SOME sort of method. We should re-engage (or engage for the first time) with our God-given purpose shared

by Jesus—to go and make disciples, baptizing them, teaching them, and setting them up to go and do the same. We should live a life that makes them want what they see we have—like peace that passes all understanding, love that gives when it’s not easy, and grace for when we miss the mark by a landslide.

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations,[a] baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19–20 (NLT)

Not Equipped?

Need a Refresher?

Don’t let it stop you! You are not alone. Come with us. If you aren’t in a situation to get the basics of our faith from your church for discipleship purposes—reach out to us. We will help plug you into a church. You can email me at teresa@ communityspiritmagazine.com for more information.

Don’t Know Christ? Let’s get that introduction started. Just send me an email and we can help you understand that we are all lost— every one of us, until we choose a relationship with God. That relationship is made possible by the death and resurrection of His son, Jesus Christ. He died in our place for our mistakes. He takes away our shame and our guilt. He raises us to new life with God when we claim that gift in a prayer to Him. It doesn’t need to be fancy. You can just read these few sentences to Him. He just needs our hearts.

“God—I know I’ve messed up. I can’t get to you without Jesus so you came to me. You sent him for me.

He paid for my sins. I accept that payment. I can be born again as a new creation with you. In Jesus name I pray—Amen!”

COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 7

CITY ELDERS

Oklahoma Becomes a Catalyst for

TRANSFORMING GOVERNMENT

I

f you are watching the political horizon, it is clear that our nation is in crisis. The two primary political parties have never been more divided. At the core of this battle is the determination to remove God.

lent posture we have taken over the years,” explains Jesse Leon Rodgers, founder and president of City Elders and chairman of the Oklahoma Watchmen on the Wall Network; the pastor’s network of the Family Research Council.

Yet here in Oklahoma, something very different is taking place.

City Elders is a biblical, reformational form of city governance which is based upon the model of the governing elders of the ancient cities of Israel and the function of New Testament Eldership.

“We are getting the church and its people back into government rather than the si-

Written by Karen Hardin Over the past two years, Rodgers and his team have been working with leaders across the state and the transformation taking place has been nothing short of amazing. So far forty-two of the seventy-seven counties have embraced this new structure in which governing city leaders now sit at the table to work side-by-side with Christian leaders in their city to bring strength and transformation.

Who and what are city elders? “They are

Jesse Leon Roders, Mayor Dewey Bartlett, Senator James Lankford, and Paul Abner 8 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

shepherds, civil servants and stewards,” Rodgers explained. “They are experienced, anointed and recognized leaders from the three primary spheres of God ordained authority; the Church, civil government and business.”

As Rodgers and his team continue working to introduce this model to every county in Oklahoma, they are already receiving requests to assist in other states as well. Why is this important?

“The truth is, we’ve been lied to that the Church and its people are to remain separate from government. It’s not in our constitution and it’s not in the Bible,” Rodgers continued.

Throughout the Bible, religious leaders took on the role to assist in the organization and governing the people and also interacted with governmental leaders.

When the task of governing the Israelites became too burdensome, Moses called upon the Lord who said, “The Lord said to Moses: ‘Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the tent of meeting, that they may stand there with you. I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take some of the power of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them. They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.’” (Num 11:16-17) Daniel and Joseph of biblical days both served as advisors to government leaders.

And the Apostle Paul, as a religious leader of his day, referred to government laws and interacted with government leaders.

(Acts 16:37, 22:25) So as Christians how can we transform our nation? City-by-city. County-bycounty. State-by-state.

According to Marc Nuttle, political consultant to Governor Stitt’s Campaign— “We don’t need a revitalization plan. We need an infastructure plan. What we currently have is not sustainable. For example, in Oklahoma in many of our county seats, the government is the largest employer! Our constitution’s language is outdated and needs to be updated. Our

Dr. Dave Leggett, City Elders Executive Committee member; Rev C.J.Ellis, county commissioner; Chris Redding, County Commissioner; Rev John Dickey, City Elder Chairman; Jesse Leon Rodgers, City Elders Pres., and Rev Norm Wilkie, City Elders Executive Committee member

So as Christians how can we transform our nation?

City-by-city. County-by-county. State-by-state. school system needs to be reorganized and restructured to better utilize the funds available.”

Although Nittle was referring specifically to Oklahoma, this can be said for almost every state in our nation.

The reason our country is in crisis and on the verge of socialist takeover, is because the biblical example of Christian elders and leaders in government positions has been abandoned. When the Left introduced the false narrative of “separation of church and state,” sadly many bought into this lie, which is not only not in our constitution, but the phrase used

by Thomas Jefferson was about protecting the Church and religion from the government, not the reverse. (For more on this go to: https://wallbuilders.com/ separation-church-state/) So what can we do?

1. Pray.

2. Get involved. VOTE. VOLUNTEER. 3. Give. Prayer by itself is not enough. Faith without works is dead. We need to open our wallets and put our money where our mouth is. If there is a God-fearing candi-

date willing to put their name and time on the line to help bring about transformation, the least we can do is get behind them financially to help them.

4. Spread the Word. This is an area in which everyone can help.

How? Talk about upcoming elections.

Be informed. Search out when elections in your local area are taking place. Go and take others with you.

Talk about candidates and why you support them to your family, friends and those you meet. Be willing to engage in conversations, rather than remain silent.

If you would like to know more or get involved with City Elders, go to: CityElders@gmail.com or call (580) 320-7188.

ABOUT: Karen Hardin is an intercessor, author,

minister and literary agent. She is called to exhort, encourage and help raise up the remnant. She desires to empower those who have grown weary so they can reposition to walk in identity and destiny.

Her work has appeared in USA Today, World Net Daily, Intercessors for America, Charisma, CBN. com, The Elijah List, etc. For additional information you can contact her at www.prioritypr.org or www. karenhardin.com COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 9

Asbury Seminary Tulsa Enrolls for Fall 2019 WILMORE, KY—Asbury Seminary Tulsa allows pastors, leaders and laity to pursue a theological education without uprooting their life and ministry. Along with the Master of Divinity degree, the Seminary offers master’s degrees in ministry and leadership.

Asbury offers a hybrid degree option so students can study online while staying on mission. With the hybrid format, students in the Tulsa and Midwest region can experience the convenience of online learning with meaningful inclass sessions just two to three days during the term of the course. This course structure gives students full access to the “Asbury Experience” in a rich, theological community. The Tulsa site is made possible by a partnership with Asbury United Methodist Church.

Asbury Theological Seminary was founded in 1923 by H.C. Morrison with a class of three students and an audacious seal that said, “The Whole Bible for the Whole World.” Its mission is to prepare theologically educated, sanctified, Spirit-filled men and women to evangelize and to spread scriptural holiness throughout the world. Almost 100 years later, the Seminary has nearly 11,000 graduates serving in every time zone around the world through social justice initiatives, government, art, mission organizations, education and the church.

To schedule a site visit, check out asbury.to/visit. For more information about the Asbury Seminary-Tulsa site, email Tulsa site coordinator Allison Gardner at allison.gardner@asburyseminary.edu or call 918.392.4590.

STUDENT WHO RECENTLY SELECTED ASBURY: Asbury’s M.A in Leadership Studies balances between both continuing my studies from a spiritual and secular point of view. The M.A. in Leadership path I chose will give me skills I can put to direct use in my secular career, as I lead people across cultures, countries and beliefs. I looked at many other colleges– secular colleges as well as Christian colleges. Most of them only focus on one direction or the other. Either you will get a good secular education or a good Christian education. I was looking for a program that gave me both. Asbury definitely filled that need.

I wanted to study Bible truths to make my personal ministry and my responsibilities inside the church more effective. There are more and more differences inside mainstream Christian organizations. I believe generational gaps, cultural differences, as well as a decline in formal discipleship programs are to blame. A divided church was not the model Christ left us. There was only one church, the Church. Even spiritually, when dealing with a group of diversified individuals, leadership skills help navigate across differences. Asbury’s M.A. in Leadership program equips graduates with skills to lead and effect change across and increasing complex culture.

In addition, I wanted a college with a wholesome environment, where I would study with like-minded individuals. I liked the hybrid models we discussed. I needed a program that gave me the ability to do studies online on my own schedule. The blend between classroom time and independent study time is perfect. I think this is a good balance for the working adult who is also trying to pursue a degree.

I think Asbury’s program fits perfectly with all aspects of my life—professionally and spiritually.

Asbury Seminary Tulsa Now Enrolling for Fall 2019

Learn more at Experience Asbury Days: sept. 12 th, oct. 25 th, and nov. 23 rd.

Sign up at asbury.to/visit Questions? Contact Allison Gardner, Tulsa Site Coordinator at allison.gardner@asburyseminary.edu or 918.392.4590.

Visit asbury.to/tulsa for more information.

10 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

MAN 2 MAN Written By: R.A. Goodnight

RAISING A RED FLAG

I

t was late, around 1 a.m., when I was ripped from my dreams. As consciousness returned to me, I recognized the sound of our home alarm screaming in the night. I looked to my right and, through the glow of the television, I could tell by Teresa’s eyes that she hadn’t triggered the alarm system. As my feet hit the floor, I grabbed an HK pistol from the bed side safe and chambered a round. Teresa grabbed our infant daughter dialing 911 and headed for the closet, while I stepped outside the bedroom and closed the door behind me. Until the police arrived, almost twenty minutes later, I stood between an unidentified threat and the safety of my family. (BTW—That’s 20 minutes IN THE CITY for the police to arrive).

I look forward to the day when firearms have no place in our world; to when we each live securely in our own homes and have no need to know the ways of war.

(Isaiah 32:18; Isaiah 2:4 NIV) But today is not that day. In the current environment in which we live, I have been thankful more than once to possess a means with which to defend my family or myself.

Regardless, we cannot deny that such rights do get abused. The country has been terrorized by many tragedies over the last few years, even the last few weeks.

I cannot imagine how I would feel if I received a phone call telling me I had been separated from my daughter or wife due to a violent act fueled by another’s disorder or hate. My innermost being cries out for those who have had to live

“Freedom of speech is a principal pillar of a free government; when this support is taken away, the constitution of a free society is dissolved, and tyranny is erected on its ruins.”

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

that nightmare. And, in the middle of the tears, the pain and the regret perhaps we find ourselves questioning and searching for solutions. But, hidden amid the chaos and fear, there are cleverly disguised traps in some of the solutions being proposed.

The “Red Flag Laws” that have gained support should raise red flags themselves for any who value their freedoms, regardless of our opinions on firearms. These proposed laws, should they become law, will pave the way for the abuse of many of our liberties, not just our second amendment rights. The basic idea proposed is simple: If an individual believes another person is capable of acts of violence and owns firearms, the concerned individual can petition to a judge. If the judge agrees, law enforcement will be dispatched to the accused’s place of residence to confiscate

any firearms. Many believe that this is a reasonable idea.

Why do I suggest that we be concerned?

I believe many individuals reason such laws would never have an effect upon them, as these laws are only for those who intend harm toward themselves or others.

But think for a moment on how intent is being established under these laws. If you offended someone, if a social media post was misinterpreted or if your religious persuasions were deemed hateful, an opposing individual could raise a red flag against you, even if you didn’t own a firearm. “So what?” some have responded.

“A judge would be able to tell the difference. So, these laws have no way of being abused.” Do we really believe that?

Consider this. For the last two years we have seen the country waste millions of dollars on legal action attempting to prove that our current elected leaders committed treason. How did all of this begin?

The opposing party convinced a judge of alleged guilt, based upon lies and motivated by hate. If similar laws can be used against the highest office in the land, why would we believe ourselves to be immune from such tactics?

What effect could such laws have upon our other protected rights? Consider these:

• The first amendment protects our right

to religious beliefs. It protects our right to think, believe, speak or write ideas as

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we choose. Red Flag laws pave the way for those beliefs, ideas and words to be weaponized against us. This is already happening at an enhanced rate toward Christian beliefs and these laws will only make that easier.

• The second amendment is obvious. A citizen of this country has a protected right to own a firearm, unless they have forfeited such right through proven and convicted criminal activity. Your religious beliefs and expressions of your Christian faith do not constitute criminal activity, even though many would like to change that.

• The fourth amendment protects private individuals from unreasonable search and seizure. How reasonable would such laws be if activated only by the word of another?

• Similarly, the fifth amendment ensures that our property (in this case a firearm) cannot be confiscated without just compensation. It also protects our right to due process. Due process would demand that any claim be proven prior to confiscation.

• The tenth amendment states that powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution are reserved to the states or the people. The power to confiscate personal firearms has not been granted to the United States via the Constitution. To the contrary, it is restricted from it. The states are given the authority on how they would choose to deal with the reoccurring issue of private firearms ownership.

Let me be clear on this point: This article is not about firearms. Ownership and use of firearms are subjects that each

“Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.”

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN

Christian needs to decide upon for themselves. What this article is about is our awareness, our ability to look beyond the clamor and see dangers that threaten other fundamental liberties that we will not compromise on. Freedoms such as religion, speech, press and due process.

When did these ever become negotiable?

It is about giving authority to men over aspects of our lives, where they do not have any authority (constitutionally or spiritually), nor should they.

Even if not a firearm owner, why would we trade our liberty to think, believe and worship without immediate fear of retaliation at the promise of security provided by men—a questionable promise in of itself? It is a high price to pay for something they cannot even guarantee. In the end, we risk losing both. No additional security paid for with our liberties and, once you give them up, they are difficult if not impossible to get back without a fight.

Thankfully, I have heard two of our state representatives express grave con-

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cern for the dangers these laws pose.

Both Congressmen Kevin Hern and Congressman Markwayne Mullin have expressed similar concerns should such laws be officially proposed. They have both stated they will not support them.

Congressmen Mullin shared a nice podcast addressing why he would not support them and you can listen to it on Soundcloud (link below). In his podcast he asks some very thought-provoking questions. For example, “So how can a judge, by asking a few questions make the determination that a male or female is not fit to bear arms without due process? We can’t.”

We thank both of these Congressmen for their continued cautious support to protect our freedoms.

In the meantime, let’s pay attention and listen to what is being said (or not said).

We certainly can’t just go by what we see and hear on television. There are many important aspects of our daily life hanging in the balance. These kinds of proposals require extensive research and thought.

They are not to be taken lightly, because sometimes the very essence of the law is in what is NOT said rather than what is written. https://soundcloud.com/user-213561710/ mullinpoints-podcast-episode-24)

I WOULD CONSIDER IT A PRIVILEGE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF THE READERS. REACH OUT TO ME, SHARE YOUR STORIES. MAN2MAN@OMEGALEAGUE.COM @OMEGALEAGUEMAN

BROKEN ARROW PEDIATRICS to come to his things, but his dad was a coal miner and couldn’t make it. Finally, when he was getting ready to make his big rocket launch, his father took off work and showed up. It was such a meaningful moment for the son for his dad to be there.

Something in me just broke as I watched it.” Dr. Pfanstiel started to carve more of his own time out for his children. He continues to do that with his grandchildren today, as it was evident from all of the smiling family photographs. It’s time invested that builds relationships that last.

D

r. Pfanstiel operates Broken Arrow Pediatrics, which has provided care to children and families for decades now. As a parent who specifically sought out their office due to their reputation as doctors, Christians, and fantastic care—I really wanted to share their hearts with our readers. When you have an appointment with Dr. Pfanstiel, you come out with great healthcare but also nuggets of wisdom to help you be a better parent.

Dr. Pfanstiel shared, “Part of what I bring into my practice is that I try to impart rather than teach from experiences. Dr. Terry and I both try to connect with our patients and their families. We probably both do it in a little bit different way, but we want to connect.” That connection demonstrated in their practice funnels into each patient’s life in a multitude of ways. So, now for a few of those nuggets!

know it’s easy to get wrapped up in life, careers, and mile long to do lists just needed to get into bed. It’s pretty easy to get wrapped up in things that seem important (and maybe are important), but making time for things that matter plays a critical role in children’s lives. Sometimes we don’t realize how much it actually DOES mean to them.

I asked Dr. Pfanstiel his thoughts on the main ingredients for raising our children right in a Godly home. Without hesitation, he answered, “The key, I believe, to being a good parent in all cases is being there, being present with them in their lives and activities.” Dr. Pfanstiel emphasized the importance of prioritizing that “presence” for our kids and how that demonstrates our love for them. We all

As a busy doctor, Dr. Pfanstiel knows the demands of career as well as most. Being on call, needed in an emergency—these are just commonplace occurrences in his field taking you away from the family.

He shared, “There was a movie several years back that really impacted me. It was based in West Virginia— ‘October Sky.’ The young boy in the movie built rockets in his backyard. He always invited his dad

“The key, I believe, to being a good parent in all cases is being there, being present with them in their lives and activities.”

Dr. Pfanstiel and his wife, Roberta, raised 6 children. They have children in all sorts of meaningful careers making a difference in the world—doctor, lawyer, teacher, IT, police officer/military and Philip, business manager for the practice, who arranged the interview for me. Really, those kinds of paths for their children are evidence of the kind of character and walk with God their parents had. They learn from what they see. Dr. Pfanstiel shared, “We have to understand that everything we do and say is picked up. We don’t realize it sometimes.

Just the gifts that they are (children), we believers would believe they are gifts from God. Each of us have our own experiences with our own background, our parents, our family, our heritage, our history that affect us. Those experiences reflect who we are and how we respond or act.” That’s certainly evident in the Pfanstiel children with all of their careers being impactful to society. They are positions making a difference in the lives of others. I wonder where they learned such traits? Dr. Pfanstiel gives all the credit to his wife Roberta, but it’s easy to tell that a great set of parents making right choices can make a difference in the future of their children. I agree. Being there for our kids just matters to them.

It’s not always possible, but purposefully trying to make that time is incredibly impactful when you make it happen. Set your heart and mind on a mission to carve out time—plant those seeds, and watch your children grow!

Dr. Pfanstiel encourages families to think a little bit about just how busy they get.

He said, “One thing we did, I would

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encourage people to do, I see a lot of these kids that are every quarter in some kind of event out there. I think that’s too much.

The parent is just run, run, run. I think you need to have more time. We tried to limit our kids to one sport a year.” It’s pretty easy to fall into the “soccer mom” curse with kids in multiple seasons, multiple sports and little time to breathe as a family. His sage advice always makes me stop and listen whether we’re visiting him in the office as a patient or talking at an event. Maybe that’s because his family has such a legacy.

Dr. Pfanstiel has been in a solo practice since 1983 in the Tulsa/Broken Arrow area. Broken Arrow Pediatrics has been here for almost 13 years with Dr. Terry being with him every step of the way. The Pfanstiels landed in Tulsa after what felt like a direct call from God. While running a successful practice in North Carolina, his wife Roberta came to him and said that she felt God was calling them to move for Bible school at Rhema. Dr. Pfanstiel didn’t really hesitate. He made arrangements, packed their bags and headed west. He gives a lot of spiritual leadership credit to his wife, which fits with his history. “We were raised Lutheran. My wife

came from a Presbyterian background.

My mother was a spiritual leader then as is my wife now. I’m really thankful for that.” It’s clear that Dr. Pfanstiel has always appreciated the role of Godly women in both the household and the workplace. It definitely shows.

Dr. Pfanstiel said, “My wife survived six kids spending an hour or two with the Lord every morning. She says that’s what has taken her through. I’d leave at 6_00 or 6:30 in the morning but it was so important to know she was home with the kids.

I didn’t worry about my kids.” “We both tried to be there for our kids events. It was an advantage of having a solo practice.

I could say that I wasn’t working on a Thursday, because I had a soccer game.”

Each of the kids, as adults, have been appreciative of the fact that we tried to be at their events.

As a father, he learned to balance between being the provider and being present in his own children’s lives. “I think the highlights are that along the way I looked at different avenues, but I wanted to be free to do it my way.” said Dr. Pfanstiel. That translated to having free time to spend with his kids when he needed it. It also

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included being able to pray with patients or discuss the Lord as was appropriate for the situation. Dr. Pfanstiel said, “Dr. Terry and I, I think we practice good medicine.

Dr. Terry prays without everyone. I pray with some. Sometimes I’ll ask the older children that if I pray for them that they also pray for me. It just delights me.“ His dedication to following God, being a present father and husband, as well as play out in all that he touches.

Dr. Pfanstiel encourages family time for his patients. He said, “I try to encourage meals together. My wife kept the family together. I didn’t get home some nights until 7:30 at night and she would hold dinner for me so that we could have time together as a family. Those are events and moments that are kind of checklist, but I try to emphasize the things that I thought were good to families when I’m with my patients.”

In their home life, it seems Dr. Pfanstiel would come home to take on a role akin to Richard Pryor in “The Toy.” He shared, “I came home and played with the kids.

Roberta would get us all packed up and ready, taking care of everything. I’m so thankful we were two. I’m so thankful

she stuck with me.” It was clear their family had their own secret sauce in how they worked—but the key takeaways have lessons for all of the families in his care.

We were lucky to have one of Dr. Pfanstiel’s sons, Philip, in the room with us for the interview. Philip is a teacher as well as the practice’s business manager to name a few of his many hats. Philip recounted his life with his mom and dad working to make the kids a priority. He said, “I was always impressed by how they (office managers) would always get him out of the room (when he was with a patient). Now that I’m his business manager, I’m realizing that was a big deal.” Philip went on, “My parents always had time for us.

They came to our events. We ate meals together. We went to church every single time the doors were open. We went to Sunday School. We went to church. We had wisdom searches or devotions on a routine basis.” It was easy to see what an impact his family’s decisions had made on him as a child and even as a father today.

Philip shared about how he and his siblings learned such valuable lessons from their parents. They really exemplified a life with Christ. Philip said, “As a father, the two things that have kinda stuck with me: Children spell love T-I-M-E and more is caught than taught.” He went on, “My parents walked the walk. They are both people of integrity. We saw how they reached out to people. We saw how they brought people into the home. We saw how they would give. My dad’s a doctor and he’s driving an old beat up car. He’s not gonna spend money on a car when he has kids. He’s gonna take care of us. You do what God’s called you to do. In his case, it meant giving up a good practice in Charlotte, NC to come to Rhema.” I heard a play by play list of exactly what discipling your children in Christ looks like in action.

Dr. Pfanstiel shared, “We built this practice with newborn babies. We would work at the local hospitals and get to know parents. Meet them. Try to address them and encourage them.” He continued, “I am where I’m supposed to be. I do try to touch father’s lives. I try to ask them what they think. I really try to let them know this is a special gift from God (being a father).” That’s my heart: Fathers, families, the Lord, giving kids goals to go for, being there for them.” He ended with this, “God doesn’t make any carbon copies. Everybody is unique. Everybody’s got a purpose.

Everybody’s got a story and a history. Everybody’s got a reason to live. I see it that way and life’s special.”

I couldn’t agree more, as Broken Arrow Pediatrics is an incredible practice with two of the best pediatricians I know.

They do their jobs with honor, while following Christ and imparting wisdom and experience to the families they see.

They are about ministering. They are about families. They are living discipleship experts taking what God has put in them and sharing it with others. I can’t imagine a better purpose than that! #GoDoBe COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 15

FAMILY FUN

Fruit Salad Isn’t All That’s Yummy!

Written by Teresa Goodnight

T

he Wiggles. Most people who have had a child in the last three decades have had at least a small dose of “Fruit Salad.” As the Wiggles have said, it is “Yummy. Yummy.”

This group, launched in Australia by Anthony Field, sets most of life to funny little tunes for singing and dancing. Their shows are full of energy. The kids are up singing and dancing. It’s truly a big, super duper dose of fun. They sing about allergies, play games with song and dance, and employ the crazy antics of a singing pirate, Captain Feathersword. Plus, there’s Henry the Octopus, Wags the dog, and Dorothy the Dinosaur.

Our Wiggles journey has spread from NY to LA, because our daughter enjoys them so much. We dress her up in the standard Emma Wiggles garb with her bow, yellow shirt and a tutu. Our daughter really loves them all. Lachy delights with a piano, a little gymnastics, and a whole lot of singing and dancing. Simon dances and sings a nice little rendition of Simon Says in a playful game. Anthony? He sings while playing his guitar and even his bagpipes leading the fun and rhetoric of the show.

What’s been incredibly interesting to us is the large portion of the audience full of differently abled children, who are so

excited to be there. At the show in Los Angeles, we sat next to a young autistic boy, who clapped the entire show with utter delight. At the show in Tulsa, the crowd was just full of children who couldn’t speak, walk or really communicate well—except there was no disguising their love for the Wiggles. The young boy next to us was 13. He was getting a little impatient waiting for them, but was in such a happy place for the entire show. In fact, of all the children’s shows we have seen—this was by far the most diverse audience all united in their love of giggles with the Wiggles.

After interviewing Eastland Assembly of God about their ministry for handicapped children and adults, we have come to understand the amazing appreciation of musical performances to the majority of the differently abled children and even adults. The expressive singing and dancing with the colorful attire seems to be the exact right mix for most of these kiddos. It’s a great program to watch to gain ideas for expanding church programs to teach these kids about Christ. It’s not complicated. In fact, there are likely lots of teens and even adults in the congregation, who would love to get a chance to express their sillier side with song and dance while making a difference in these precious lives.

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We were able to see a young girl, maybe 13, participating in the “Make a Wish Foundation” program. I’m not sure of her exact condition, although most children participating in this program are not likely to live much longer. She had her sensory headset on to keep the music from being too loud for her little ears.

She danced with amazing joy, even once clapping her hands with utter delight in a super happy moment she experienced. I snapped a few photos from my seat with tears running down my face. It was just the sweetest moment to share with her.

Sometimes being silly, having a little fun in your heart and sharing some singing and dancing is all you need to bring delight to any audience. It removes the walls put up by differences—mental, physical, financial or political (OK. I am hoping there!), It is an experiential reminder to us all that within each of our differences lies the joyful heart of our Father in Heaven. As Natalie Stitt reminds us of in her thesis, we are ALL made in God’s image. When you’re at a Wiggles show, it’s really a living, breathing example of what doing life together can be when you open your hearts and minds and take down the perceived barriers. #GoDoBe

HEART2HEART

Everyday Discipleship

Written by Andrea Stephens

W

hen I first started Sunday morning breakfasts, I wasn’t thinking beyond having some scrambled eggs and sourdough toast. Then Angie started waiting on me. I loved her bubbly personality, her friendly demeanor. I loved that she kept staring at my open bible. I felt God leading me back to sit in Angie’s section. Each week I got to know her a bit better. She was a single mom working two jobs to make ends meet. She had grown up going to church with her grandmother but quit going when she was in high school since her friends didn’t go.

Saturday nights made Sunday mornings about getting over her hangover instead of getting ready for church. God was no longer a part of her life. Little by little, Angie opened up about the struggles in her life, one of which was forgiving her father who had abandoned her. Each time she shared, it opened the door for me to respond with advice about the situation.

a bible and invited her and her son to our Wednesday Family Night at church, since she had to work on Sunday mornings.

What started as a simple Sunday morning breakfast turned into being part of the Lord restoring a precious woman to Himself.

I responded with truths from God’s Word, including the why’s behind forgiveness and the ways to forgive someone. I purposely shared about the forgiveness Jesus offers to us, which helps to motivate and empower us to forgive others. It is key in any type of discipleship—formal or informal—for our responses to point the person to Jesus. I assured her that I would be praying for her and several times left an encouraging card with my tip.

Our main responsibility in discipling someone is to demonstrate what it means to be a believer. We need to be a disciple in order to make a disciple. When we are being a disciple, we are reflecting the character of Christ and showing others the difference following Jesus makes in our lives. The light of the Holy Spirit, who lives inside of us, shines out through the kindness in our eyes, the gentle expression on our face, and the openness of our body language. When we are loving, forgiving, slow to anger, compassionate, encouraging—we are displaying the attributes of God, thus making Him visible to others.

These are things others can see without us saying a word. It reminds me of popular phrase Preach the gospel at all times.

If necessary, use words. Whether it be generously giving finances to a struggling single parent, helping an elderly neighbor plant her flowers, cooking a meal for a new mom, or inviting a distressed

Then I arrived at the restaurant one sunny Sunday morning and sat in my regular booth in Angie’s section. Suddenly I saw her burst through the kitchen doors headed my way. “I need God back in my life!”

I was momentarily speechless—although I shouldn’t have been so surprised since I knew the Holy Spirit was at work drawing her back to the Lord and creating a thirst for the things of God. It was an exciting time for Angie and for me. I bought her

We think of discipling someone as a formal arrangement to work through a curriculum on the basics of the Christian faith. And it is that. Yet discipling someone can be an informal, even an unexpected situation, where you have the opportunity to speak into someone’s life with your words and actions. It might be ongoing or it might be a one-time encounter. Discipleship can be an everyday part of your life. We ask the Lord to use us, then pay attention to the Holy Spirit’s leading throughout the day. We watch to see where He is at work and we join Him there. He will even give us the courage we need and the words to say.

co-worker to lunch to hear her story, it potentially reflects something of our Savior. Acts 10:38 clearly states that Jesus was known for going around doing good.

When we do the same, we are reflecting Him to others. Our actions serve to get someone’s attention, causing them to take notice and make a mental note of the kind of person you are—the kind they just might be open to hearing about the reason for the hope within you, the reason you are different, the reason you have been consistent in your caring towards them. And that reason is Jesus. Being kind or helpful to someone is not enough to help grow their relationship with Jesus.

This is when you take a step of faith and begin to make comments that might open up a spiritual conversation. Even what I call ‘putting in a good word for God’ at the appropriate time is a starting place.

For instance: Isn’t this a beautiful day God has given us? I’m thanking God my kids didn’t get the flu. God sure helped me get through that presentation. Just drop a little God-talk into your conversation to see how they respond. Many people—especially women, accepted Christ when they were younger. Then life got messy and they fell away—often because they didn’t believe God could love them anymore or they couldn’t understand why something painful happened in their lives. They need us to tell them God still loves them and loves them unconditionally. They need us to tell them that we live in a fallen world where bad things happen but God is still good. And God is more than ready to help us do this very thing.

Over the next month, will you ask the Lord to use you to disciple someone? Will you watch for opportunities to influence someone for Christ? I think you just might love the added purpose and the exciting adventures that the Lord will bring into your day!

COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 17

Are you a distressed soccer mom? Dance? Gymnastics? Football?

Enter Karla Partridge of Totally Organized.

My mind had been almost yelling at me inside my head for two years—GET ORGANIZED. We moved in quickly after a long remodel. When you have everything in storage for 10 months, you forget what you have. You also buy things you packed that you needed, because you weren’t planning on being out of a house that long. When you have a high maintenance daughter, in the cutest ways of course (MOSTLY), free time isn’t exactly something you get. When you do, it’s difficult to choose to tackle a closet or a toy room. Right? You know what I’m saying. You have your own stressful disasters needing attention.

So, I was sitting in the middle of the bed working on the magazine, when I received a note. We had a Christian organizational genius wanting to advertise. Interesting. We sent emails. Ideas were flying. We talked through who she would be targeting.

Somewhere in the exchange, I realized “Hold on. I am her target market.” I’m a completely worn out, super busy mom, doing more things than sound possible to keep up with our family daily to-do lists. Are you with me? You don’t have to answer. You probably don’t have time.

Pretty soon she was ringing my doorbell like an angel from heaven. I heard her own little theme song in my head, “Here I am to save the day.” She started the next day. Just knowing she was coming gave me relief. My super busy soccer/dance/gymnastics mom brain needed RELIEF. I didn’t even realize it when she reached out. I was so worn out that it took a little bit.

Was it possible God sent her to get me settled, so that I could focus on all that He had given me that mattered? I absolutely think so. Of course, I think He had plans to help her with her business.

God can and does send us blessings that are precisely what we need JUST when we feel at the end of our rope.

So, she tackled my daughter’s massive number of toys as her first project.

Now, we have neat little baskets, lined up under tables and in cabinets, offering my daughter a pleasant playtime experience. She can also keep organized now because things have a place where they go! It’s a beautiful plan.

She found toys my daughter thought she lost. My daughter was thrilled. So was I. And, RELIEVED. What a breath of fresh air— and I needed some really fresh air.

When she left, I thought—maybe YOU also need to know she exists. It’s highly likely YOU could be a super busy mom caught in the cross hairs of happy exhaustion. We love our families, but sometimes keeping up is just beyond what we can do.

Sometimes a little relief—maybe in the form of a super organizer is exactly what you could use too. Moving? Unpacking? Pantry hiding your food until it expires? Closet overtaking your bedroom? The list goes on of things God has really gifted her to do to organize worlds. Plus, she loves it. That’s a perfect fit for us all.

In case you’re me, give her a call and see what she can do for you. Whether she inspires you to tackle other rooms using her ideas after she gives you a start or comes in and takes the whole mess off your very full plate—I hope you feel some of what I felt today. She was a breath of fresh organized air.

LET’S GET YOUR STUFF IN ORDER SO YOU CAN GET BACK TO DOING WHAT YOU LOVE! Services include: Homes, offices, classrooms, packing for a move, unpacking, assisting with downsizing/purging to help you move with ease.

Instagram/ totallyorganized.co Facebook/ Totally Organized 918.638.8110 Karla Partridge, Personal Organizer peartree2@cox.net 18 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

RISE&SHINE Model Faith to Make Disciples Mike Henry Sr. is the president and founder of a new ministry called Follower of One. Check it out at www.followerofone.org

Written by Mike Henry Sr. - Follower of One

A

disciple is a learner. But when we think of learning and learners today, we draw a different picture than the one Jesus intended. Classrooms are a modern invention. For ages, formal education was for the few. Before public education, most learning came by doing.

We apprenticed or we followed a master to learn a trade. We did what our parents did. We learned how to grow crops or make furniture by watching and helping our parents.

GREAT COMMISSION Jesus last command in Matthew is often called the Great Commission.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 ESV When Jesus issued this command, I doubt many heard him say we needed to create a curriculum and start holding classes. We don’t need to pursue accreditation. The two steps to making disciples are baptizing them and teaching them to observe all that he commanded. Teaching then was modeling.

DISCIPLES CHOOSE When our children are young, we can tell them things. We can guide their thought processes and encourage them to see things from our perspective. But as children age, they want to make decisions for themselves. After a while, everyone chooses their own path. The people who

work with us, or even for us, are volunteers. In the end, we all have a choice.

Jesus came, suffered and died so we could keep that choice. We forfeited it at the fall.

But God sent Jesus to make sure we could all choose. Imagine what we would do if we all saw God in all of his glory. Once Adam ate the apple, he became afraid.

God remains veiled so we are free to choose. Jesus died to give us a choice. We can follow him and receive eternal life or we can choose our own way.

Choices are also influenced by our resources. Jesus said it was more difficult for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to inherit the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24, Mark 10:25, and Luke 18:25). The more money we have the more choices we have. Since we live in the wealthiest nation in the history of the world, most people we work with and interact with every day have the resources to choose their own solutions.

Asking becomes the big phobia. We don’t want to look like we don’t know, so we make our own decisions and we live with the consequences.

Commission in some translations can also be translated “as you go.” When Jesus tells us we will be witnesses, he’s telling us as we go, we will testify to the truth of Jesus. Our lives will be on display everywhere we go.

We’re God’s only marketing strategy.

We all have sincerity meters. We sense when someone isn’t genuine or when they have an ulterior motive. And you’ve heard sayings like “Talk is cheap,” and “monkey see, monkey do.” How we live matters more than what we say. God created us that way and he designed the strategy (modeling) for identifying and developing his chosen people.

MODEL FAITH To make disciples we must model our faith. We live like we believe Jesus and our faith is on display for others. Both baptizing and teaching require modeling. People won’t trust Jesus or follow him until they see how trusting Jesus works. They don’t want to look stupid and most people object to being told they’re wrong or “lost.”

When we live dependent on Jesus, he causes others to question and choose.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 ESV

Jesus is the model. He chose to come to earth and suffer and die in our place. He came to serve, not to be served (Mark 10:45). When we model Jesus our life will cause others to question. Our light shines before others so they may see our good works and glorify our Father (Matt 5:16).

Our modeling becomes the first step to making disciples in any context.

AS WE GO Many consider the above to be a command, but I think it is a statement of fact.

The “Go” at the beginning of the Great

Mike Henry Sr. is the Founder and CEO of Follower Of One, a ministry designed to mobilize Christians in the marketplace. Get started by taking the Marketplace Mission Trip.

God designed his strategy around how we model our faith. In Acts 1:8, the resurrected Jesus said,

COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 19

MATTHEW 25:34–40 “Then the King will say to those

on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’”

I

n the church, we TALK A LOT about loving our neighbor.

In fact, we talk about loving them like we love ourselves.

Those are some pretty BIG WORDS. I wonder though, what good are words without action? I think they are like faith without action. Dead. I know, because too many times I have found myself thinking that someone else had it. That the needs I saw would be met by someone else. They probably were.

However, how many chances have I missed to be God’s hands?

God’s feet?

I’m a writer. I like words, but not this time.

This time I’m keeping it short. I’m asking you to get up and do something with me.

Matthew 25: 29–30 (NLT) “To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance.

But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness . . .”

With the families who lost everything in the floods still trying to figure out how to find solid ground to stand on, there’s a great opportunity to start putting your actions where your words are.

Just read below what a handful of churches are doing in Sand Springs to help . . . and HOW MUCH IS STILL TO BE DONE. These Christians are pouring love all over the place and they need some folks to come give them some relief from the bench.

LOVE IS A VERB. Here’s what it looks like.

A Requested Report from Rusty Gunn, Pastor, Church that Matters: Coordinators of Flooded Family Relief in Sand Springs We have had a crazy busy weekend (and about 3 weeks preparing) out here with flood relief. We had a furniture/appliance swap meet where people were able to drop off donated furniture and appliances from 8–11 am and then flood affected families were able to pick up items from 1–3 pm Saturday. We had pallet loads 20 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

Written by Teresa Goodnight of Tempur-Pedic pillows, makeup, toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, air dryers, pots and pans, coffee makers, and food boxes as well. We served over 100 families.

Then Sunday we had our church’s “Don’t GO to Church Sunday” where we had over 225 people out doing about 15–20 community projects. One of those projects was providing new bicycles for the flood affected kids on Sunday. Our kid’s ministry put on a brief kid and family program with a gospel presentation and then distributed 65 bicycles to kids who lost theirs in the flood. We fed the families lunch after as well.

Then at 2 pm we had our community “Back To School Bash” at Tulsa Technology Center’s Sand Springs campus, where we distributed over 500 backpacks filled with school supplies and had free haircuts, dental exams, eye exams, blood tests, food, games, etc.

All that to say we are fairly exhausted at this very moment.

We have provided sheetrock with mud and tape, insulation, brand new refrigerators, dishwashers, stove/ovens, and cabinets for about 40 homes so far and the needs are still being realized just about every day. There is still A LOT of work to be done. I met a man yesterday who has not even begun his rebuild process. I met a family, whose children are in counseling because of the trauma from this event. People are having to try to rebuild the insides of their homes from the sticks up and at the same time try to maintain their yard work along with their full-time jobs. We have 2 cancer patients we are working with, who are also having to balance their treatments with all the work they are doing.

We are incredibly thankful to those who HAVE sent support, people, and resources. Victory Church has really been a huge blessing to us specifically! We are so grateful for the help we have received but just need more. Our own community is experiencing what is apparently known as compassion fatigue. So much still needs to be done.

It’s our turn.

Grab your wallet.

Grab your church, Sunday School class, your Bible study group—whatever group you can get to join you. If no one wants to come? Just grab yourself.

Let’s get Church that Matters (and the other churches in Sand Springs helping them) what they need. Let’s volunteer to join them in loving our neighbor . . . as ourselves. Email us at info@community spiritmagazine.com or reach the church directly at info@churchthatmatters.com or call 918-512-1486 to offer what you have. Let’s help these amazing Christians feel supported in their efforts to love their neighbors and give them some love of our Lord and Saviour!

MAKE YOUR LOVE A VERB. COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 21

SENIOR MOMENTS Written by Teresa Mary L.Goodnight Williams

Why Call for the Elders of the Church?

M

y widowed, 80-year-old mother used to say, “I had to help the elderly person in the grocery store.” She remained active and healthy until her mid-eighties. Her wisdom and understanding of God’s Word was astounding.

Her years in the church and her divine encounters through prayer and fasting became a comfort to many, both young and old. She learned to trust in Jesus Christ and His finished, atoning work on the cross. My mom was certainly an overseer in the church and in her neighborhood (as well as an ordained minister).

Her spiritual enlightenment in Christ came through years of growth in wisdom, knowledge and understanding of God’s word, purpose and plan. As an elder, the imperative is to help others grow and avoid pitfalls by sharing wisdom and experiences—to oversee as a shepherd to a flock.

Are elders trivialized in the modern church structure? Young people seem to be recognized more as leaders of the church and needed for expansion of ministry. However, to trivialize a contribution an elder (or the elderly) can make in the modern church structure is indeed a tragic mistake. Statistics site that in American Christian congregations, older adults consider religion more important than adults 39 years of age or younger.

Young adults are 10 percent or more less likely to attend weekly worship services and pray on a consistent basis. Millennials tend to give financially to purposes or causes to fight for more than to organized churches or religion. Therefore, the question becomes can millennials substitute for the sagacious directives of the silver hair, laugh lines around the eyes, un-botoxed foreheads of men and women who are proven faithful to family, friends and the church? Absolutely not. We need both.

Paul needed young Timothy in furtherance of the gospel, yet, Timothy needed Paul as a spiritual father and instructor on “How” to establish the church and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Timothy was admonished by the Apostle Paul to ​“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity (love), in spirit, in faith, in purity.” I Timothy 4:12.​Paul’s advice to the church overall is to grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ and to wait before ministering to develop in ministry. He is not time specific about age, but more so about being conscience of the time for development before ministering.

”Is anyone among you sick?

Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14) In the previous biblical examples, the young and the old were able to mutually work together to effect change necessary for the Body of Christ to exist today.

Therefore, the question is not “Do we need elders or should the young and energetic (not restless) lead in the magnitude we’re experiencing today?” The vital question may be “Are elders discipling the young and are the young receiving discipleship?” In both cases, the giving and receiving must be done with love and mutual respect of each other’s place and calling in the Kingdom of God. Therefore, call for the elders of the church and do not despise the young. Teach, preach and encourage all people to prayerfully embrace their season of purpose with meekness to the glory of God. There is no such thing as retirement in

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the Bible while we are still on the earth. To be finished means to no longer exist in this life in view of biblical standards.

At 80 years old, Caleb told Joshua “Give me my Mountain!”

(Joshua 14:12) Like Caleb, know your place and occupy it with love, wisdom, knowledge and humble dignity to fulfill God’s mission to build His Kingdom in the earth. He will give you strength in times of weakness (Prophet Elijah outran a chariot; 1 Kings 18:46) and courage with provision in times of trials and every season of your life (in the wilderness Hagar said “ . . . in this place God sees me and cares for me,” Genesis 16:13).

The Holy Spirit can guide us through the ever-changing trends in our society and church programming. God has already set the structure through the five-fold ministry and the gifts and administrations of the Holy Spirit. Young and elders alike are subject to God’s ordained structure to achieve holistic growth in Christ. And when it comes to defining “old,” I agree with the person who said, “Old is always 15 years older than my current age.”

Senior Moments, sponsored by

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Intentional Discipleship of Our Children. Say What?

Written by Teresa Goodnight

I

attended a basics of Christianity class with my four-year old daughter at Jenks First Baptist one Sunday evening. It was fascinating to watch her listen so intently. I had the opportunity to explain our faith with the teacher as he went. The event moved me to tears, because outside of our Bible readings at home—that was the first time in her life that we had the opportunity to experience this kind of class together in a church setting. Why was that? It struck me funny.

Why hadn’t we had that opportunity before? Was it not a good idea?

Before I finished my thoughts, I saw my daughter’s hand shoot straight up to answer a question. Honestly, I didn’t even hear the question. She must’ve been the youngest one in the class, but to my surprise—he called on her. I was a bit petrified. We didn’t discuss it. What would she say? Wow. She nailed it. I realized things we taught her before armed her with the answer like attending youth church, reading her Bible for Kids (It’s the YouVersion Kid’s Bible with activities—you have GOT to get the free app if you don’t have it for phones and tablets!) So, some of what we had been doing was working!

It’s nice when that happens. However, the class really challenged me that I was not understanding how much “Jesus teaching” she was ready to absorb. She left wanting more of it. So did I. Somehow, the way we do church separately, I was missing some great opportunities to strengthen her. It just never occurred to me. Part of that is because most churches keep everyone in the right box. Married.

Single. Kids. Teens. It’s kind of a given that it’s a right thing to do to group together on these levels. However, it shouldn’t be the ONLY ways we are engaging with our kids during church I think. (case in point!)

Why weren’t there more opportunities to engage together in discipling our

Proverbs 22:6, New Living Translation (NLT)

“Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.” children hand in hand with the church?

I wondered, have some of the churches forgotten (with me!) how much these kids are ready to absorb? Are there studies out there showing kids learn better in environments with their parents sometimes?

Maybe we should mix more of these opportunities into their path on purpose?

In that short time, we took the kids from 0 to 60 on the “What’s this Christian stuff all about” gage. From Adam and Eve and the fall to Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

We tackled it point by point with a nice picture we drew together. Jesus was God’s

son. We drew out on paper diagrams to show that no matter how good we are as men and women—that we fall short of God’s perfect standard. We talked clearly about God coming to us because we could never bridge the gap. We only connected to God through grace, accepting Jesus Christ as our savior. I’d bet that many of the parents learned (or were reminded) of a few things along the way as well. After all, those basics like salvation by grace and not by works are some of the things that trip us up most! My spirit was on fire with the concept that felt so new to me.

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Then, just few Sundays later, we had a blended service at church for families. My daughter came into the service with us. She sang worship songs with us. I was so thankful to God—sharing worship with my husband and my baby girl. This moment praising God together was seared into my heart forever. When they played “Raise a Hallelujah” for the Fall’s Creek video segment, she sang loud enough to be heard for rows around us. Everyone around smiled. She fell in love with the song in the Easter play at Victory Christian Center. My husband has been very intentional about filling her with great Christian music, and it is working.

This big people song pierced the heart of my little girl. She said, “Mom—I totally know why they used that song when Jesus rose from the dead that day in that play.”

As if God needed to poke me harder on the matter, during worship she whispered in my ear, “Mommy—I’m sorry I kicked at your arm in the car.” She was frustrated at something in the car, and from her car seat reached as far as she could with her foot to shove my arm. She had been immediately disciplined of course, but in the midst of worshipping our God—His Spirit was alive and active with her. She whispered again, “I’m not going to be mean anymore either.” She hugged me more times than I can count. I held her as the worship continued. We swayed back and forth in the presence of our almighty King together. It was such a beautiful moment of confession, repentance and learning in the presence of our God. My heart once again just couldn’t contain both my joy and my thoughts on why this interaction was so important.

When worship ended, with a blank piece of paper and crayons given to us at the door for her, she began to draw. The sermon began. At first, I didn’t pay much attention to her doodles. I looked down about 15 minutes later. There it was. She recreated the image from our basics of our faith lesson several weeks back.

She drew the chasm between us and God with Jesus connecting it. She drew the cross. She drew the tomb. She even included the arrows going in and out of the tomb. She whispered to me and explained every bit of it. She didn’t need to explain it. I knew exactly what it was. I looked at my husband. Tears filled my eyes again. God had my full attention on the matter.

Watching God working in her heart and growing her into His child—it took my breath away. In some ways it boosted my own faith, watching the sweetness of Him moving in her in ways she understood. It felt right to be there with her. From here forward, I know these kinds of interactions need to be part of her world.

They need to be part of my world. God absolutely wanted me to see all that He could do. He wanted me to experience a glimpse into what He experiences when we learn things, when we respond to His spirit, when we flat out nail it.

So, why am I sharing this story with you?

I was reminded in a beautiful way, one I won’t soon forget, how important sharing these kinds of experiences with our children can be. My hope is that by telling you about our experience, that you will seek out your own experiences like these. I don’t think they are always going to just happen. I think we need to be intentional with them. You can even help your church start offering them.

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There is power in a basic discipleship class, teaching our children the foundations of our faith. It meant more doing it together— for both of us. She paid attention more. She was eager to show me what she remembered and learned. It was Jesus-centered discipleship with my baby girl. And, best of all? It was really simple to make happen.

What kinds of action steps did we take?

Well, we decided to dedicate a lot of space this issue to discipling our children. We sought out some examples of that kind of discipleship to share with you.

Other steps? We started a new LifeGroup (Bible Study) at our church inviting parents and children to take the journey together for 6-8 weeks. The focus? Discipleship 101 with our kiddos. It’s a great way to teach the children. It’s also a safe way to help newer believers to become solid in the basics of their faith with their children. It’s one easy way parents can grow with their kids in the basics of our faith in a safe, fun environment.

What actions could you take? Whatever you do, don’t just put it off. I’m a full time mom with a high maintenance rugrat. What we put off until tomorrow—well, that tomorrow becomes next week, next month, next year. These kids are only little for so long. They only embrace such interactions with excitement for so long. If you need help? Send me a note at teresa@communityspiritmagazine.com and I’ll sign you up for a class we are putting together to teach others these basics in a way they can share them!

If you’re already engaged? Incredible! Send your tips on disciplining children to us. We’d love to publish and share more ideas!

It’s too important for their walk with Christ to miss the chance while we have it.

STUDENT IMPACT THESIS ON RESTORING “THE DISABLED” TO GODLIKENESS, Part 2 Thesis By Natalie Stitt Regent Preparatory - Student, Guest Author

Here is Part 2 of Natalie Stitt’s senior thesis. If you missed Part 1 of Natalie’s article, check out the first half online at www.communityspiritmagazine.com.

J

ust as ancients did, many in the Church today assume that disabilities are due directly to sin, and therefore have the overarching, if not sole purpose to be healed (Cross 317).

Although this concept is visible in the Old and New Testaments, it is fundamentally a pagan idea: the notion that at any turn, a slight mistake could offend the gods and leave the sinner suddenly struck by lightning or turned into a cow terrorized the ancient world, and as Christianity spread, this idea was mixed with Christian thought. This concept of divine punishment heavily influenced both the early and contemporary Church (Moss).

In Jesus’ teachings, his disciples once asked, “‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’

Jesus answered, ‘It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him’” (John 9:2-3). We tend to think that if something is bad, it is always divine punishment, but Jesus’ words in this passage should dispel any thoughts that disabilities are the results of God’s wrath (Yong 87). On the other hand, I do not mean to suggest that God is absent from the creation of those with disabilities; Scripture is very clear that there is purpose behind every individual, especially those with disabilities. When Moses confronted God about his speech impediment, asking Him to choose someone else, the Lord respond-

ed with, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute?

Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord?” (Exodus 4:11). His response shows how purposeful each individual with special needs is: they are fully created by God, disability and all.

Body of Christ, both deficient and dependent upon others; both gifted with divine gifts, both expectant of salvation (Bach, as cited in Kunz, as cited in White 20).

In this light, the state of original sin unifies humanity, especially within the Body of Christ. One cannot treat a fellow sinner with contempt or arrogance because “all have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God” (Romans 3:23). When Christians have a misconception of sin as it relates to disability, they see an individual with special needs as a mistake, if not a punishment, that requires healing.

Nancy Eiesland, herself living with a disability, comments on the issue from experience: “our bodies have too often been touched by hands that have forgotten our humanity and attend only to curing us . . . healing has been the churchly parallel to rehabilitative medicine, in which the goal was ‘normalization’ of the bodies of people with disabilities” (Eiesland 244).

She claims that instead of being welcomed into a loving and accepting community, she was merely viewed as an imperfection that needed healing and normalization.

While it is folly to attribute disabilities to be direct effect of God’s wrath, sin might have something to do with the existence of disabilities, and for this, we must turn to Thomas Aquinas. When discussing physical impairments, Aquinas contends that disability, along with several other experiences that he deems “features of the human condition,” is not on direct account of sin, that is, divine punishment, but yet another manifestation of original sin in this world (Cross 318). The human condition does not only include disability, but all the ways that sin manifests in humanity: being prone to lie, having an addiction to alcohol, being born without the use of the legs, and having Down syndrome are all aspects that fall under Aquinas’s categorization (328-329).

Despite physical appearances or mental abilities, theologically, there is no distinction between someone with or without disabilities.

In a sense, all effects of original sin are hindering in some manner or another: we are all disabled to a certain degree. I’d like to turn to Bach, a scholar of disability in theology: Both [disabled and not] are respectively created by God; both live in the fallen creation; both (as damaged creation) are dependent on the salvific deed of Christ; both are reconciled to God through Christ; both are members of the

Theologically there is nothing wrong with intercession for healing, but as Eiesland emphasized, one’s humanity and one’s disability cannot be separated for the purpose of healing, and healing with normalization in mind, is not without danger. In the gospel, it is very clearly stated that there should be no partiality in the Church (James 2): nothing about an individual should cause the church body to treat her in a better or worse manner.

We are all defective, we are all broken, and we are all sinful, and no one is more or

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PAINTING BY NATALIE STITT

tier of humanity even hinted towards in the Bible. “The value of a person, in God’s sight, is not measured by his or her knowledge and accomplishments. The value of a person is ultimately in the realm of love” (Edwards 73). People have no justification in classifying their fellow humans on any basis other than the love that the Father has freely given. It is for that love that Jesus came to earth as a man and died on the cross: it wasn’t for the intellectually qualified alone, but also for those that the general population has consigned to a lower category, perhaps irredeemably so.

less than another. We should always keep this is in the forefront of our minds when we interact with anyone, with and without disabilities. The Lord does not bestow weaknesses or disabilities upon humanity in order to discourage them, but rather, through the relationship established on the cross, to make them perfect in his strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). Any suffering that we experience on earth should be a reminder for what Christ accomplished on the cross: he trampled Satan, and in death, gave us life.

The first step towards inclusion must begin with how we view individuals with special needs. In the New Testament and especially in the examples set by Jesus, diversity was obvious: men and women of all different backgrounds were unified as they worked to further the kingdom of the Lord. Jesus’ image of the Church as a body emphasizes unity over difference.

Jesus even commanded that his followers “go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame” (Luke 14:21). He did not say “open your doors and let them come” but rather “go, and bring them in” (White 12). Later the Apostle Paul elaborates on Christ’s teaching concerning inclusion; in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 he says that: For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in

one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many.

As Paul states, there is unity in diversity: “there are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work” (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). The unity that Christ instituted in the body of the Church was not motivated by a mere embrace of diversity, but it came from seeing each and every individual as a bearer of the Imago Dei; their value was nothing that could be proven, displayed, or won, it was instilled through God’s breath of life.

In today’s culture, where we base a high priority on rationality and intelligence, a hierarchy of humanity and, consequently, of disability, has been constructed from the measure of one’s intelligence and has been deeply ingrained within our society.

People, Christian or not, usually view a neurotypical individual as on a ‘higher level’ than an individual with Down syndrome, and likewise someone with Aspergers is ‘rated higher’ than one with a profound mental disability. Although life on earth functions on the basis of classifications such as these, there is no

26 COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe

As stated above, there is no theological difference between a completely dependent individual and you or me. The Church may not openly classify people on the basis of intelligence, but they do make classifications as to how much charity an individual requires, which is based off an assumption of a caste society. Charity, when properly motivated, should only prove to be beneficial to society: believers, as commanded, should always reach out to those in need. An issue does arise however, when an individual is stripped of their personhood and viewed as an object of charity, which is almost always for the satisfaction of the giver. It typically happens in one of two manners: in some cases, an individual with special needs is given special treatment, condescended to as if they are a child, or ‘helped’ by a member of the congregation. Although these actions in themselves may not appear malicious, they can be degrading to that individual’s inherent value, and in some cases, that individual can detect the air of false charity. The so-called ‘giver’ in this situation feels like a saint, a perfect benefactor to a person, whom they deem to be less than themselves. On the other hand, the misuse of charity may take place between an entire congregation and those with disabilities, not just between one member and another with a disability.

In many cases such as this, the Church will ‘invite’ an individual with special needs into their congregation and present them as their ‘special’ member. It gives that specific church a more diverse appearance and also makes them feel as if they are helping those in need. Although this situation, like the last, appears to be an honest attempt at inclusion, the heart is nowhere near the right place. Both of

these situations stem from a selfish desire to be seen as good, not to simply fulfill the commandments and do good. Christians, as fallen and selfish beings, must always be reminded that works, for the sake of the good and not for the sake of self-satisfaction, without recognition are the most fulfilling way to show love; in Matthew it is written, “be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:1).

Charity, when properly motivated, should only prove to be beneficial to society: believers, as commanded, should always reach out to those in need. An issue does arise however, when an individual is stripped of their personhood and viewed as an object of charity, which is almost always for the satisfaction of the giver.

The most vital aspect in the repositioning of the heart is love. Love, as has been perfectly demonstrated by the Father through Christ, is one of the hardest yet simplest things we need in order to include those with special needs into the Body of Christ.

In I Peter 4:8, it does not say, “love those who are convenient to love,” but rather “above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

Loving is not something that is convenient or easy: Christ’s death on the cross was the opposite of those things. There is no better way to truly experience love, than when the object of your affection becomes unlovable (Lewis 118). That is not to say that individuals with special needs

are unlovable; in most cases they are quite the opposite, but oftentimes they have no way to reciprocate the love given freely to them, just as we have no way to earn or repay the Father’s love.

There is no better model to admire here than Christ (Hoekema 22). Theologians have dissected the defining aspects of humanity over and over, but just as a scientist can break down an element only up to a certain point, there is a baseline which theologians cannot proceed past.

Humans, as centuries worth of philosophy displays, are complex and unique creatures layered with desires and flaws, but each and every human being is made in the holy Image of God. Whether it is acknowledged or not, this intrinsic value is something that can never be added to or subtracted from; it places all humans, despite race, gender, socio-economic status, intelligence, and physical ability under one category: children of the living God. For centuries, people with disabilities have faced discrimination and contempt, even in the Church. Their intrinsic worth has been overlooked, and consequently, they have been ignored, they have been refused access to the sacraments, and they have even been marginalized from Godordained community that the Body of Christ is to provide. An individual’s value, whether they are at the cognitive level of a toddler or of a genius, is nothing that can be added to or subtracted from: it rests solely on the basis of God’s breath of life, his holy image (Lewis 116). It is something that spans across all of humanity; every individual must be treated with the utmost respect: if they are not, not only is their humanity marred, but the sacred image of the Lord is defiled. This factor should dispel every air of discomfort, indifference, and most certainly pride, and should establish and enforce full inclusion

of those with special needs in the body of the Church. In all of your future interactions with those with and without disabilities, always remember Jesus’ words, “let all the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14).

WORKS CITED IN THESIS Admin, Gardens. “Oklahoma Disability Statistics.”

Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, 13 Aug. 2018.

Cross, Richard. “Aquinas on Physical Impairment: Human Nature and Original Sin.” Harvard Theological Review, vol. 110, no. 03, 2017, pp. 317–338.

Edwards, June. “Children with Learning Difficulties and the Sacraments.” Children with Learning Difficulties, 1994, pp. 70-81. The Way, 17 Jan. 2019.

Eiesland, Nancy L. “Sacramental Bodies.” Journal of Religion, Disability & Health, vol. 13, no. 3-4, 2009, pp.

236–246.

“Five Statistics We Can’t Ignore: Disability and The Gospel.” The Banquet Network, 4” Sept. 2018.

Greenberg, Ben. “Inclusion Is a Jewish Imperative.” My Jewish Learning, 8 Apr. 2015.

Hoekema, Anthony A. Created In God’s Image. 1st ed., Eerdmans, 1994. Print.

“Jewish Values and Disability Rights.” Religious Action Center, 3 Dec. 2015.

Lewis, C. S. The Four Loves. HarperOne, 2017. Print.

Moss, Candida R. “Disability in the New Testament.”

Bible Odyssey, 1 Oct. 2014, www.bibleodyssey.org/en/ tools/video-gallery/d/disability-in-the-nt “Orthodox Theological Perspectives on Disability.” World Council of Churches, 21 Oct. 2015.

Reinders, Hans. Receiving the Gift of Friendship: Profound Disability, Theological Anthropology, and Ethics. Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2008. Print.

“Religion in America: U.S. Religious Data, Demographics and Statistics.” Pew Research Center’s Religion & Public Life Project, Pew Research Center’s Religion & Public Life Project, 11 May 2015. The Bible. New International Version. Biblica, 2011. Bible Gateway.

White, George. People with Disabilities within Christian Community. 2014.

Yong, Amos. The Bible, Disability, and the Church: a New Vision of the People of God. Eerdmans, 2011. Print.

Our Governor’s daughter has a beautiful heart. However, if you just read the article and don’t take action, you just might break it. Natalie prayerfully prepared her thesis hoping God would use it to impact our community . . . to change us. We have an opportunity to become different, to do things differently—in our churches and our schools. Both entities of God’s Kingdom need to reconsider our positions to make sure we’re in alignment with the challenging words of this teenager. I challenge you to think about what your next steps could be to help make amazing life altering changes to our ministries. Then #GoDoBe. COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 27

Eastland Assembly—Where Love Doesn’t Stop with a Ramp

Written by Teresa Goodnight Natalie Stitt’s article has already touched so many. We’ve had families thanking us for approaching the subject both for schools and for churches. It’s opened my mind beyond where God started me. I pray with this little story God inspires you to move into action. It’s really that simple.

F

orming a ministry for those who are differently abled is incredibly difficult. Right?

Wrong.

Few things could be further from the truth.

Our two-part series with Natalie’s senior thesis challenges us all on our role as the Church (and as Christian Schools) to go into the community and seek out those with disabilities to bring them to God. Job 29:15 (NLT) says, “I served as eyes for the blind and feet for the lame.” The Bible is full of references to God’s heart for those with any kind of physical or mental needs.

However, many of us have unknowingly created a world where they don’t seem to

belong. Does that even sound right when you read it? Not in a Church called to reach the least of these, it doesn’t.

There are scattered churches in our area, who have made wonderful efforts towards reaching these souls for Christ. However, as Natalie referenced in her thesis, the needs of those with a handicap of some kind aren’t really “special.” They have needs just like any of us—to be loved, included, cared for, part of the Body of Christ.

So many people believe a lie Satan puts in their minds that ministering to those who are crippled in some way is difficult.

Eastland Assembly is one church who has proven otherwise for 26 years now.

“Eastland’s ministry started with puppets at Hissom Memorial Center (a residential training facility for mentally disabled children).” shared LaDonna Harper, who now has the reigns for the ministry with her husband, Al Harper. She went on, “The church launched the ministry with Jason Couch, one little member. It grew quite quickly by word of mouth. It has been steady ever since.”

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Jason was an autistic boy. He was also the pastor’s son. If we think about the newfound awareness for autism we have these days—it’s better than it was, but still very misunderstood by most. So, 26 years ago, it was really a shot in the dark to begin this ministry. LaDonna said, “Since then, we have 150–170 people each Sunday who attend the service. That includes caregivers. We have about 100 people or so with special needs, but we also have the 75 or so caregivers. That’s a captive audience, because the caregivers bring them to ­services at their request.” LaDonna continued, “Most of the ministry on

Sunday mornings for the service is done with songs. You talk about pure praise.

It is just beautiful.” When she mentioned the caregivers attending services, being fed the Gospel, it even further opened my heart as to why this ministry is so critical to a church in their efforts to reach the world for Christ.

LaDonna said, “There are separate services but sometimes we bring both groups together with our regular service. Those in the 0–21 category attend the regular children’s and teen programs. They would have someone from our church with them full time if they needed someone from the church or they might have their own caregiver. The adults have their own class.” In Eastland’s program, the parents get a needed break with their children being so well cared for in the classes. Just a little extra attention really ministers to the entire family when you think about it.

All parents know parenting is incredible, but a little break goes a long way. When a child has a disability, that can be even more true. It’s really a ministry to so many different people when you think about it.

LaDonna explained, “We use the ‘Action Bible’ chronologically with the Bible stories. It looks like a comic book, but it’s amazing. We just go through it with them.” LaDonna said, “Sunday school at 9:15 and 10:00 service so that they can have their meds at noon. That’s about the biggest bit of advice we have, because everything else is just holding a regular kind of service. That timing gives them room to get back to their facilities and homes for the medication.”

One other tip LaDonna had was to skip the donuts. LaDonna laughed, “We used to have a larger Sunday school when I brought donuts. It did get them out of bed, but the sugar affects their behavior so much. That leaves their staff dealing with those impacts when they get back. So, we steer clear of the donuts now to create the right situation for everyone.”

LaDonna shared, “We have parties for holidays like the 4th of July and of course we have a big Christmas party. We give them gifts. Sometimes that’s the only gift they get. Many are wards of the state. They are aged from their early 20’s to 75 or so.

Actually, half of our congregation has been here the whole 26 years.”

We give them gifts. Sometimes that’s the only gift they get.

I was in awe of what LaDonna was doing.

However, realizing she had ZERO training in special needs ministry or education was the biggest surprise. LaDonna said, “We decided to fill in when the team left the church to try to help other churches start ministries like ours. I would come in and sing, but I didn’t really think about being part of the ministry. My husband is an engineer. We just never thought

about this ministry. It’s been an amazing journey. Most people that come see them in worship can’t watch without crying.

My mother in law was Presbyterian and is now Baptist. She just sits down and cries at the service. It’s something to see.”

LaDonna shared, “There are many times when you go through struggles in life.

Sundays are more like salvation for my husband and I. I know that Jesus truly is our salvation, but there’s so much love in this service; it just gives you a peace for the rest of the things going on in your life.”

It’s quite beautiful and contrary to popular belief, quite simple. That’s really the message here. Of course, there will be challenges once in a while, like with any ministry. However, if your church isn’t doing it—then maybe God is calling you to be the one to get the ball rolling? Maybe?

It may not be anything you’ve ever even thought about before reading this article.

However, if you drop in on Eastland Assembly for one service and take a tour, it might ignite your heart with fire you never even knew were burning inside of you. God certainly lit LaDonna and Al with a fiery passion, equipping them with exactly what they needed to bless these families. #GoDoBe

LaDonna Harper invites people from other churches to come check out their services to get ideas and inspiration on what you might be able to do at your church. Their door is always open. She said, “I’m not worried if someone starts another ministry that we lose attendees. If the new location is closer to them, then it’s better for them. This is about what’s best for them.” Stop by one Sunday. See if this might be the God has prepared in advance for YOU to do.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 29

UNDER THE LIGHTS

Metro Christian Academy’s Stadium Gets a New Look other turf fields, handles rain and drainage better than grass and can stand up to multiple sports and rigorous daily use.

It’s August. It’s hot. The football team is in shoulder pads and helmets on the practice field running wind sprints and the glory days of fall seem a long way off. Even so, there’s excitement about the upcoming season. The team is keeping an eye just to the south where workers swarm Patriot Stadium putting the finishing touches on some major upgrades.

“Keeping the old natural grass field in shape through a busy football season of practice and games for high school, junior high and elementary teams was a major task,” said Jay Hight, senior associate of auxiliary services at Metro. “This is going to give all the teams a more consistent playing surface. Not to mention it looks great with the logo at midfield and the colorful endzones with Metro written on the north side and Patriots on the south. It’s really a focal point of the school now.”

“We never thought we’d be playing on one of the best turf fields around,” said Evan Grantham, junior football player. “It’s great to be part of the first team to play on this field.”

The field also features a new video display board measuring 10 feet high by 26 feet wide. The videoboard definitely adds to the game atmosphere with graphics, video announcements and more.

Metro Christian Academy has installed Forever Lawn’s Sport Grass. This synthetic turf looks and feels more like grass than ever before. It requires less maintenance, has 75% less rubber infill than

“There are so many options for the future with this board,” said Hight. “We’re excited about the idea of giving students a chance to learn video

production and editing skills by creating material for the display.”

Above the field, Metro has renovated the press box adding climate control, one-inch thick slanted glass windows and different rooms for coaches of opposing teams.

“When this press box was built, it was very basic.

It was designed to offer a bird’s-eye view of the field for coaches and the public address announcer,” said Hight. “Today we’re accommodating coaches, PA announcers, videoboard producers, live streaming video crews and more. We’ll be able to offer fans a better experience now that we have more of a command center.”

The new stadium upgrades have been funded through the generous support of donors. In addition, the school partnered with local companies including Forever Lawns (owned by Metro alumni) and GH2 Architects to complete the upgrades in time for the 2019 season. The end result is a stadium that players, students and families can be proud of for years to come.

LEARN MORE ABOUT METRO CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Join us for an

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, September 22 2pm - 4pm Register online at visitmetro.com METRO CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Serving students P3-12 6363 S. Trenton Ave., Tulsa, OK 74136 918.745.9868 | metroca.com

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FINANCIAL

A Childlike Financial Plan Take a lesson from your seven-year-old

Written by Randy C. Cowell, M.S, LUTCF, CFP®, CRPC®

H

e called a little child to his side and said to those that would listen, “Unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3 is one of many verses that encourages us to take on childlike qualities. As we observe the little ones at play, it is easy to envy their non-complicated world. They live a simple, straightforward kind of existence without a lot of strings attached. By all accounts they seem to manage just fine. In fact, it would often appear they get along better when adults don’t get involved with their hidden agendas and the added pressure that success in the “rat race” brings.

A CHILDLIKE FAITH I recall the time my son accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. He was seven years old and we were attending the wonderful performance of A Toymaker’s Dream. As the performance was about to end, the actor playing the role of Jesus gave an invitation for all unbelievers. He simply asked the question, “Would you like Jesus to live in your heart forever?”

No sooner than he finished the question, my son, sitting in the balcony isle, raised his second-grade hand as high as possible. What was about to happen wasn’t in any of the parenting manuals! Jesus directed those that responded to come down immediately. At a breakneck pace, my only son began his life-changing journey down the steep stairs! As he ran to Jesus, I tracked the top of his head bobbing and weaving in and out of the crowd. I finally caught up as he was being ushered to a large counseling room behind the stage. Quietly assuming a non-conspicuous position as observer, I witnessed a young man proceed to confirm my son’s spiritual decision. As he presented the simple plan of salvation, I remember how impressed I was with his unassuming approach. He did not mention doctrinal issues or offer an elaborate explanation of denomination platitudes. Instead, he simply presented the gospel in terms a sevenyear-old could comprehend and accept. You see, salvation is quite a simple concept when seen through the eyes of a seven-year-old.

THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE We take this same simple approach when we teach our children about finances. In this issue we will discuss how to teach children how to handle money and more importantly, teach them how to be good stewards with God’s resources.

For lack of a better name, we can call this the “envelope method.” It involves three envelopes, very little supervision, and is based on three principles. These are, give some, save some, and spend some. To demonstrate the process, let’s assume you give your six-year-old a dollar for picking up his or her toys.

The first envelope is for giving back to God. I believe you should emphasize the concept of giving back to God as opposed to simply calling it a tithe. That’s a complicated term and God doesn’t care what your child calls it. Initially they will need your assistance. Remember dimes and the one-tenth concept of tithe are new concepts, so be patient. Soon, they will be putting dimes into God’s envelope on their own.

As they grow in their faith and stewardship, you will see their self0esteem and confidence grow. If we examine closely, it would seem that in their acts of obedience they are attempting to teach us a lesson. Not only is it more blessed to receive but it’s a lot of fun!

The second envelope allows you to teach your child about saving for a “rainy day,” or a large future purchase. This could amount to a coloring book or a new football, but teaching your child about saving supports the concept of delayed gratification and financial discipline, a concept, I might add, that many Americans need to be reminded of. How much a young person should be encouraged to save is a good question. I believe that saving at least twenty-five percent of their allowance or birthday money from “gramps” is a great start. For all those counting, that’s two dimes and a nickel.

Can you imagine if we adults did this? Saving money for future purposes, paying cash and ultimately not being forced to use credit cards

at usury rates sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? I could dwell on that subject but I must go on to the third envelope.

The third envelope is the spending envelope or the “one for fun.” It receives sixty-five cents and for many young children, that is quite a bit of money. More times than not, they will want to save and give even more. In fact, they will often question the amount they are giving to God. Not that it’s too much, mind you, but that it’s not enough! What happens between the time we want to give God everything and the tie we allow our giving to be secondary to MasterCard™ and a new car? Maybe we don’t really become selfish and believe we can live without God until we become more “mature.” Many would argue and say it’s because our adult financial plans have become so complicated. This is certainly true. As our financial plans become more complex with asset modeling, betas, and multi-fund management, it seems our financial concerns are like so many spinning plates wobbling out of control. I wonder, when we ultimately stand in front of God to give a final account of our stewardship, if He will accept our excuses. We would be wise to observe the little children, learn their ways and strive for simplicity.

Randy C. Cowell, LUTCF, CFP®, CRPC® ACT Financial Services, Inc. | (918) 664-0081 rcowell@htk.com | www.ACT-4-Life.com Randy is the President and Senior Strategist of ACT Financial Services, Inc. He is a Certified Financial Planner®, Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor®, Investment Advisor Representative of HTK, Inc. and recognized as a Fellow by the Underwriters Training Council (LUTCF). His expertise combined with a unique “Biblically-based” philosophy, has served his clients well for over three decades.

Registered Representative of and Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC (HTK). Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC 4111 S. Darlington Ave., Suite 800, Tulsa, OK 74135 (918) 664-6511. HTK is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company. ACT Financial Services, Inc. is independent of Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC. HTK does not provide legal or tax advice. 2483857AL_APR21

COMMUNITY SPIRIT — Connecting Christ’s Community #GoDoBe 31