Faith On Every Corner - March 2020

March 2020 Easter & Spring!

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.

The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.

Do you believe this?�

John 11:25-26 | NIV Visit Our Website at www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com for previous issues of our magazine.

COVER PHOTO

BY M E L A N I E N E B B E L I N G About the cover photo - I was driving home with my daughter when we spotted this gorgeous wildflower field near Okemos, Michigan, last spring., I envisioned her in an Anne of Green Gables style photoshoot at this magical location! I drove home, trying not to speed, and grabbed the perfect outfit from her closet to match the stunning purple scenery. I packed up my camera bag and back we went to bring my vision to life!

The first time that I dabbled in photography was when I took a black-and-white class and learned to develop film during my sophomore year of college in the 1980s. I didn’t start learning about photography until about six years ago when my last daughter was three. It blessed me to have her after my first three children went off to college.

Having raised my others, I knew how fast children grow and I wanted to capture and preserve as many of those precious moments as I could. I hired professional photographers several times a year, and one day I put the money that I was paying others toward buying my own equipment and learning photography myself. I would consider myself a “professional hobbyist photographer,” as I use professional equipment, but only take photos for memories for my family. Photography is also a creative outlet for me. I love vintage children’s fashion and enjoy combining it with my photography to create artistic images that take my viewers back in time. It is not my only style of photography, but it is my favorite genre. My preference is to take candid photos of my daughter having fun and just being a kid rather than posed shots of her. Candid photos capture the true essence of childhood and the moments as I would like to remember them. I am from East Lansing, Michigan - home of Michigan State University.

FAITH ON EVERY CORNER

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR ON THE RIGHT TRACK? Do you ever wonder if you are on the right track?

As Publisher of this magazine, I often sit back and try to read the articles and look at the pages the way you might. I have questioned myself more than once to see if I was on the right track.

This month, we had the opportunity to talk to new readers and to ask them to tell us what they thought of the magazine. Here are a few things they commented about: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Content rich Very professional layout Liked the variety of voices (contributing writers) Publication worthy of its name

It felt like God was saying, you are on the right track, keep moving forward! We would love to hear from our readers. Let us know what you think by emailing us at FaithOnEveryCorner@gmail.com Blessings to you.

Karen

HE is risen, HE is risen indeed!

KAREN RUHL

Patience

by Karen Ruhl

I

must admit that I struggle with patience when I am out with my camera. I want a great shot, one that expresses what I feel when I capture the moment. I have learned not to worry about what others may think about my work. I truly take photos that show the amazing work of our Father.

When I look at a tree, the limbs pull my gaze to the sky as they all turn up and seem to be worshipping their creator. Birds perch in the limbs of trees for shelter and to find food. The trees provide shade protecting us from the harsh sun, and give us a breeze on stiffling hot days.

Animals never cease to amaze me. Often, photographers have long lenses and can get in so close to the animal’s face that you can see the beauty and wonderment in their eyes. The animals are very aware that they are being watched and are ready at a moments notice to scurry away.

The thing I continue to try to learn, is to give God my time and let Him show me each shot. You have to be set up and ready, but each time I go out, I 4 | MON AG A Z INE NAM E FAITH EVERY CORNER

come home with a few photos that I will cherish because I felt God’s presence while I was talking to Him about my need to to grow in Him. Working on patience is always rewarding.

TABLE OF

FACEBOOK

Special thanks to Melanie Nebbeling for our wonderful cover photo.

PATIENCE

WHEN THEY SAY I AM CHRISTIAN

Karen Ruhl

Carol Wimmer Jeff Barclay

MT. BAKER

Jessica Brodie

IS IT WELL WITH MY SOUL?

Craig Ruhl

WAR COUNCIL/CHAPTER 2 A VESSEL IN THE OFFING

Melissa Henderson

SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADULTRY

Suzette Humphreys Pamela McCormick

PAYBACK IN PANSIES B U L LY I N G N OT TO L E R AT E D

Joan Renfrow

LEARNING TO FORGIVE...

ANTHONY ACAMPORA

Lynn Downham

THE CROSS AND THE CROWN DEAR CARL

Anna Friend

MY SONG OF REBIRTH & SPRING

NEW THIS ISSUE

F O L LO W U S

4 5 7 9 11 13 17 20 21 23 25 28 33

CONTENTS

8 29

Beverly Mcdaniel

CONTEST

Bible Trivia ROAD TRIPPIN’ IN OATMAN, AZ

Karen Ruhl

New this month on page 16.

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When I say am a Christian “When I say am a Christian,” written by Carol Wimmer, in 1988, and first published by Hi-Call Gospel Magazine in 1992. This site exists to provide information about this poem, its history, and its original inspiration.

When I say, “I am a Christian” I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”

I’m whispering, “I get lost sometimes That’s why I chose this way” When I say, “I am a Christian” I don’t speak with human pride I’m confessing that I stumble – needing God to be my guide When I say, “I am a Christian” I’m not trying to be strong I’m professing that I’m weak and pray for strength to carry on When I say, “I am a Christian” I’m not bragging of success I’m admitting that I’ve failed and cannot ever pay the debt When I say, “I am a Christian” I don’t think I know it all I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught When I say, “I am a Christian” I’m not claiming to be perfect My flaws are far too visible but God believes I’m worth it When I say, “I am a Christian” I still feel the sting of pain I have my share of heartache which is why I seek God’s name When I say, “I am a Christian” I do not wish to judge I have no authority I only know I’m loved ©1988 Carol Wimmer. All Rights Reserved.

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Carol Wimmer https://carolwimmer.com/

Carol lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma with her husband of 48 years.

They have two grown children and three grandchildren who also live in the Tulsa area. Before retiring Carol served in the music ministry for 22 years during which time she wrote and produced many original songs and theatrical scripts.

Her journey in ministry led to independent biblical research beginning in 1996. She has since presented academic papers within the Society of Biblical Literature. She is currently authoring three books on the subjects of Time, Language, and Organization. Her books will challenge Christians to embrace a new perspective of time, a spiritual language of diplomacy, and an egalitarian structure for organized ministry. Her works will promote a radical change of heart in these three areas of human thought and action.

From The Publisher, Karen Ruhl I have seen this poem shared across social media platforms without giving credit to its author. I went on a quick internet search and found Carol. I sent Carol an email and explained that I had loved this poem from the first time I read it and would love to share it with our magazine friends, giving full credit to its author. Carol first looked at the magazine to see if it was a good fit and sent this reply: “Dear Karen. One quick glance through some of the articles and I know it is a publication worthy of its name. I LOVE the name of your magazine. It breaks down this idea that faith can only be expressed within the confines of walled institutions.

I do hope that was your intent when choosing the name. It’s wonderful messaging.

I would be honored to have the poem appear in such a setting.

Thank you for asking.”

Carol Wimmer www.whenisayiamachristian.com https://carolwimmer.com We encourage you to go to Carol’s websites and get to know her through her words.

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by Jeff Barclay

M T. B A K E R

Bathed in light from bottom to top Dark shadows at her feet Looking so majestic With a cloud hat on her peak Volcanic, snow covered, beautiful Mighty, rugged, bold Famous, western, picturesque, Sacred, precipitous, and old She has been here many years And will be for many more Touched by mother nature’s hand Near a place where eagles soar Sunlit by day and bathed in the moon’s glow by night, the majestic snow capped volcanic peak of Mt. Baker towers over the surrounding foothills that lead to the Washington Cascade range. Ash from her eruptions so many years ago has produced wonderfully rich soil for the farms in the area. Melting snow from her glacier feeds the three forks of the Nooksack River which provides water to those farms.

Created by fiery explosions of molten rock she has been quiet now for many years. However, the steam that continues to vent near her peak is a reminder that she could come to life at any time.

Except when bathed in clouds, I gaze upon this beautiful mountain almost every day celebrating her existence in my part of the world. She is a daily reminder of the glorious creations God has put before us.

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BIBLE TRIVIA With Karen Ruhl It’s fun time! You can do this alone, with your spouse, children, or call up a friend and enjoy a few minutes of Bible Trivia together.

We hope you enjoy. Let us know what you think!

1. On what day of Creation did God create man?

2. What does Eve’s name mean?

3. How many sons did Jacob (Israel) have?

4. What did God place at the east of the garden of Eden to guard the tree of life?

5. The southern kingdom eventually fell also, but to which great power?

6. What weapons did Gideon use to defeat the Midianites?

7. How did the Jewish prophet Daniel end up in Babylon?

8. How many books are in the New Testament?

9. What is the shortest book in the New Testament?

10. Who saw a light on the road to Damascus?

11. How many people did Jesus feed with five loaves of bread and two fish?

12. Who recognized Jesus as the Messiah when he was presented at the Temple as a baby?

13. Paul was shipwrecked on what island?

14. Which of the gospels says that the saints were raised from the dead when Christ was crucified?

15. Who was Saul’s first missionary companion?

16. How did God curse the animal that decieved Eve? 17. Who was the first known European convert to Christianity?

18. Who was the apostle to the Gentiles?

19. On what mountain did Moses receive the law from God? 20. How did Rahab let the invading Israelites identify her house?

CONTEST: Send us an email with the correct answers and you may win a journal. Each entry will go into a drawing. We will announce the winner in our next issue. You have 30 days - get busy.

Email your entry to: faithoneverycorner@gmail.com

WWW.FAITHONEVERYCORNER.COM 8 M AG A Z I N E N A M E &O R U R L | 9

IS IT WELL WITH M Y S O U L?

by Jessica Brodie

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning journalist, author, blogger, editor, and devotional writer with thousands of articles to her name. She is the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism, which has won 116 journalism awards during her tenure.

She is actively seeking publication for her fiction.

Her novel, The Memory Garden, won the 2018 Genesis Award for Contemporary Fiction from the American Christian Fiction Writers. Her follow-up novel Tangled Roots won a third place Foundation Award in Contemporary Romance at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in 2019.

Married, Brodie has four preteen children and stepchildren and lives outside Columbia, South Carolina.

FAITH ON EVERY CORNER

You know how people say all these terrific self-love things, like “I’m my own best friend” and “I love me”? Nope. That wasn’t me for most of my life.

The truth is I never felt comfortable with myself until the last few years. I didn’t enjoy my own company, didn’t really like myself all that much, and when I had a day alone, I’d usually invent things to do—organizing photo albums, or cleaning the house top to bottom—just to stay occupied. I’d hoped it was something I’d grow out of, but when I hit my thirties and things still hadn’t changed, I knew it was something deeper.

I’d see other women, even very young women, who seemed utterly comfortable and fully at peace with themselves. They’d sit on a park bench and appear to bask in the sunlight, or wait patiently in line at the grocery store, seemingly content in their solitude. I’d look on in envy. Were they born that way? Was it something their parents taught them?

A few years ago, I figured out their secret—or at least how to achieve that self-comfort and peace. It was all about the soul.

See, as you may have read on my blog before, I was raised a Christian, but I wasn’t a full Jesus-follower (for me there is a distinction!) until I became an adult. Then, sometime in the last decade as my spiritual walk deepened, I began to focus on a new soul-challenge: discipleship by reading God’s word, the Bible, on a daily basis.

Genesis 1:27 tells me God created human beings in His own image. He loves us completely, and the more I know and understand Him, the more I realize that I am part of Him, part of His beauty and love.

Knowing God intimately and fully is the answer to everything I’ve ever been looking for.

I’m not there yet, but I’m working on it. And whatever way we get there, I know in my soul that it’s life-changing, perfect bliss.

How about you? Do you feel like you know the Lord and have a relationship with Him? What helps you know God better?

That’s right, daily. Every day, I read a chapter—sometimes a lot more, but always a chapter. Then I carry that around in my heart all day, and somehow God’s words transform my heart. I feel closer to Him, understand Him better, hear Him more clearly, focus on Him more intensely.

Shortly after I started doing that, I realized I was changing. I didn’t need to listen to music or an audiobook in the car. Once, I drove three hours across my state and realized I hadn’t cranked on the radio or picked up the phone at all—I’d simply allowed myself to rest in the peace of the Lord. That verse from Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God,” finally made sense.

That day, I realized an important truth: loving myself isn’t actually about me at all. It’s about loving the Lord.

jessicabrodie.com WWW.FAITHONEVERYCORNER.COM 10

WA R C O U N C I L Chapter Two Easter In Millville

by Craig Ruhl War Council is a work of fiction created by Craig Ruhl. This month we are pleased to present Chapter Two of War Council, Easter In Millville. Look for continuing chapters in future issues. Craig’s bio appears at www.faithoneverycorner.com/ meet-our-contributors.html War Council is copyrighted by Craig Ruhl 2020, all rights reserved.

My normal morning routine is to first make a quick cup of coffee in the one-cup machine on the kitchen counter.

I’ll have finished that cup by the time I have showered, shaved, and dressed for the day. Although I work from home with Tori, I prefer to grab breakfast at a local diner or family-style restaurant before attending to our daily business needs. Tori is not a big fan of a big breakfast, happy with just a bagel or piece of toast eaten at her desk while working on her computer. I love the ambiance of a short-order restaurant and the variety of customers one encounters while eating and sipping coffee at the counter.

It was a very balmy day in mid-March, just a few weeks from Easter, and I was straddling a stool midway down the counter at the Millville Diner. I had just finished a plate of ham, scrambled eggs, hash browns, and toast. Earla refilled my coffee cup, making it three cups so far for the day. The buzz of conversations around me almost kept me from hearing a soft “Hello” from behind me.

A tap on my shoulder got my attention, and I turned to see who it was. A tall older gentleman dressed in a blue dress shirt and beige corduroy pants held out his hand and greeted me with, “Hi, my name is Nick Turner and I believe you met a few of my fellow roundtable friends the other night.”

“Hi, my name is Skip, and yes, I did.” I smiled and said as I shook his hand. “It was great that they invited me to sit with them and get to know them a little. They mentioned that there were several other men that I might meet the next time I came into the diner, but I didn’t see anyone at the roundtable this morning, so I just grabbed a stool here at the counter.”

Nick nodded his head and said, “I just missed you. I left just before you came in.

Jeff called me the next morning and told me about meeting you and he brought me up to date on what you guys discussed that night.”

I motioned to the empty stool to my right and invited Nick to join me. Earla, the lady who had served me the first time I was in the diner, was working the counter. She set a steaming cup of coffee in front of Nick and asked him with a smile, “Hungry or just low on caffeine?”

Nick laughed too and said, “I had a bite to eat earlier at home, so just the coffee will be fine this morning. There is a business luncheon across town that I am going to, so I don’t want to ruin my appetite for that.”

I asked Nick, “What line of business are you in, if you don’t mind me asking?”

He replied, “No, I don’t mind at all. I work for a non-profit group created to help people who have been displaced or replaced in

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the workforce because of the economy, health, or just plain poor decisions.”

Sipping his coffee, Nick explained, “I was a high school guidance counselor for 35 years, but I retired when my wife became ill and I needed to be a full-time caregiver. She passed away three years ago. I needed something to fill my days where I could be of service, so I joined the agency.”

I told Nick that I was sorry to hear of his wife’s passing and then asked if he had worked with Ben Tiller at the high school.

Nick answered, “Thank you, Skip. Yes, I worked with Ben. He is the interim principal now, but back when I was a counselor there, he was teaching history and economics classes. He is an exceptional guy and is doing a wonderful job.”

As we were talking, Earla came by with a fresh pot of coffee and said, “Nick, I was told that you and the roundtable guys have come up with a new idea to celebrate Easter this year.

Care to share it with Skip and me?”

Nick held up his hands and said, “This isn’t for publication yet, but yes we have an idea taking shape that we think will be fun and honoring the true meaning of Easter.”

Earla left us to wait on other customers and I leaned in closer to Nick as he continued, “Skip, each year our little group of men that gather at the roundtable try to sponsor an Easter event.

Most years it has been just a traditional egg rolling contest on the lawn of Jeff’s church. Last year, it was a small parade along Main street.

The folks dressed up in their good clothes and the ladies and girls wore bonnets and colored hats. We bought buckets of candy and passed it out to the kids marching along the route.

This year, we want to change it up.”

I could see the light in Nick’s eyes as he told me about his plans for an Easter celebration for this year. I asked him, “Nick, is there a place where I might fit in with this year’s plans? Tori and I talked about wanting to get more involved in the community. This Easter seems like an excellent place to start.”

“Well, the thought I have is to put a unique spin on an Easter egg hunt event this year. I’d like to get a bunch of those colored plastic Easter eggs, the kind that comes apart. I think we should do a take-off on the fortune cookie theme. We will want to keep the true meaning of Easter in the hearts of those who attend and teach our children the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

“How blessed this idea sounds. Tell me how it would work, Nick?”, I asked.

“We could print out some simple Easter-related Bible verses, cut them into strips, and tuck them along with a piece of candy or two into each egg? We can then hide them around the church grounds and let the kids hunt for them.”

Nick told me as he became even more excited.

“You and Tori would be an enormous help on Easter day after church when we hold the egg hunt. We’ll need a bit of child herding, for sure.”

As Nick and I talked through the details, I suggested that Tori and I donate the eggs and help stuff them. Nick said that Jeff had already scheduled the event at the church on Easter day. He was sure that the other men could produce the verses, supply the candy, and help with the hiding of the eggs. The church planned to have the bright Easter banner out front on the lawn. It was coming together in our minds, now we just needed to put it into action.

I told Nick, “Man, I need to take care of the rest of my errands and then get back to work on business stuff. I’ve lingered too long, but it was well worth it.”

“Hold on, Skip,” Nick said motioning towards the door. “Here’s two of our guys coming in right now. You met Ben and Gabriel the other night, didn’t you?”

“Yes, I did. They are really friendly guys and I enjoyed getting to know them and more about the men of the War Council,” I said.

Continued Pg .15

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A VESSEL IN THE OFFING

Melissa Henderson is a writer of inspirational messages. Her first book for children, “Licky the Lizard”, was released in 2018. She also has a story in the compilations “Heaven Sightings” and “Remembering Christmas”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. She and her husband Alan moved from Virginia to South Carolina to be near her son, daughter-in-law and first grandchild.

The family motto is “It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons”.

Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com Crossing a two-lane bridge from the mainland to Sullivan’s Island in South Carolina has become a frequent path for Alan and me. We travel the bridge to attend church, walk on the beach, visit local stores and restaurants and to visit friends. An area across the street from our church provides a scenic view of water animals, the ebb and flow of the tides and watching people with fishing equipment preparing for the next big catch.

There is an area of the bridge with a small hill in order for small boats to travel underneath without the need of a drawbridge. Traveling on the bridge, we wait for our car to reach a certain area. No matter how many times we cross over, we know a glorious view of the ocean is waiting.

On a recent trip to the island, I looked straight ahead waiting for the vast body of water to come into view. When my eyes caught sight of the ocean, my thoughts turned into spoken words. I pointed to the ocean and said, “A vessel in the offing.” Excitement filled my mind seeing a huge ship. Wondering where the vessel was going and where it had been, my imagination filled with possibilities.

By Melissa Henderson

Alan looked at me with a strange expression. “You’ve never said that before. A vessel in the offing. What made you say that?”

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Truly, I am not a nautical person at all. I don’t like boat rides or being in deep water. Yet, watching the ships or “vessels” brings happiness and interest.

Pausing, I thought about how humans are “vessels”. Sometimes we are “hollow containers” and other times we are filled with many emotions and thoughts.

There are times when we are in the “offing” with friends and family. We are at a distance with relationships.

Think about your relationship with God. Are you a hollow container when you meet people? Or are you filled with His love and glory? Are you like a ship in the distance or are you ready to share the message of God and His love?

Are you “a vessel in the offing” just waiting for Him? He loves you and He seeks you in every moment. Share conversation with God. He is waiting.

Have a wonderful day and enjoy His blessings, Melissa Henderson

Photos by Melissa. Right is Breach Inlet, between Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island.

For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. ~Exodus 20:11

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WA R C O U N C I L (CONTINUED)

We adjourned to the roundtable, taking seats with Ben and Gabriel. Earla brought us a pot of fresh coffee, a bowl of creamers, and fresh set-ups. As she turned to leave us, she said over her shoulder, “Skip, I warned you about these guys and it looks like you have fallen in with the tribe.” This caused a chorus of laughter and applause from all of us at the roundtable.

When Easter Sunday arrived, Tori and I attended the morning worship service at the First Methodist Church in Millville, the church where Pastor Jeff preached. The sanctuary was beautifully decorated and was filled with families, organ music and praise. Pastor Jeff’s sermon taught us the meaning of Jesus’ resurrection, the incredible gift that God had given to mankind, and the promise that our faith in Jesus Christ assures us of. The service ended and as the organ postlude played, Pastor Jeff raised his hands high and proclaimed, “He is Risen!”

The congregation responded with a joyous, “He is Risen, indeed!”

Outside, on the church front lawn, children and youth of all ages gathered to begin the hunt for hidden Easter eggs. As each child found a colorful egg, they brought the egg to their parents and grandparents, who helped them open the egg and find the contents. The adults helped the children read and understand the Bible verses while supervising the eating of the candy, also found inside the eggs.

The men of The War Council, those guys who sit at the roundtable at the Millville Diner, gathered off to the side of the celebration and I was happy to be among them.

We gave thanks to our Lord for being able to touch so many young lives and families with the Good News of Jesus Christ. Gabriel summed it up the best when he offered, “We are often called The War Council and the most important battle we have to wage is the one for the souls of our young people. Let’s never forget that.”

“Amen” was echoed throughout our small group.

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LitPick is a reading and writing program that provides books to students and adults in exchange for their honest reviews. Student reviewers receive valuable feedback on their writing from mentors such as teachers, librarians, and authors. LitPick’s goal is to promote reading and writing by giving students a voice and helping them grow as readers and writers in the process. LitPick also help authors by promoting their titles and getting their books into the hands of readers.

If you would like to become a LitPick Book Reviewer, we invite you to submit an application today LitPick

The Best Family Ever is about the Baxter Family: Mom, Dad, Brooke, Kari, Ashley, Erin, and Luke.

The book is written from the viewpoint of Kari and Ashley. Both girls are in middle school and share the details of their family life from their perspective.

The family is a God-fearing family that tries to live a good life and serve each other and others. However, this isn’t always - with things like Ashley being jealous of her sister Brooke, who seems too perfect to her, and her younger sister Erin, which causes sibling rivalry. The kids have to continuously learn how to relate to each other and embrace their differences even when big changes occur. This book is a refreshing change from stories that focus on negative struggles and situations. It’s an excellent reminder of the positive role of a structured family.

Best Family Ever (A Baxter Family Children Story) Best Family Ever

by Tyler Russell, Karen Kingsbury Age Range - 8 - 12 Genre - Faith-based Emmaline Age at time of review - 11 Reviewer’s Location - Orange City, IA, United States View Emmaline’s profile

Opinion: The Best Family Ever is a good book. The critiques I had were that the Baxter family seemed a little too perfect, and the book alternated between two of the children, Ashley and Kari, but there was no pattern (i.e. Ashley, Kari, Ashely, Kari). It was hard for me to follow because of this. One thing I would change is to add a little more conflict or excitement. However, I loved reading about a more normal family where divorce hadn’t affected them and the kids weren’t naughty and didn’t hate each other. Some good things were that there was some sibling rivalry (there could be more - even good families fight and deal with hard things!) and an exciting trip to California.

Editor’s Note: We met Tynea Lewis and Gary Cassel from LitPick Book Reviews on LinkedIn, reviewed their website, and fell in love with their passion for guiding our youth and young adults to further their reading and writing skills and habits. We hope that sharing a little about www.litpick.com will spread the word of their free book review site and enable us all to pass on our love of reading to our children and grandchildren.

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SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADULTERY Presented by: Suzette-The Marriage Warrior

The internet culture has provided access to so many wonderful things. At a click of a button, we are able to search anything that our minds desire and social media has allowed us to connect to anyone around the world. As beneficial as this tool is, the tempters within it can be personally destructive and can rip apart what God intended for healthy marriage.

So much time is spent on our cell phones.

This one device allows us to answer emails, read the newspaper, view text messages, search social media, etc. Much of the “phone stare” activities cause marital partners to live in solitude that is unhealthy for relationship connection. Furthermore, the “one device for all things” phenomenon forces partners’ to trust that all phone activity is legitimate. When in fact, the lurking internet tempters can cause spouses to engage in marital betrayal, while sitting in the same room.

Marriage is a fragile institution that requires trust. The foundation of relationship trust is built on emotional intimacy through authenticity and transparency. Most people perceive their smart devices as private and find it intrusive if their partner desires to inquire. In fact, if a partner, sensing marital disconnection, asks their spouse, “what are you doing on your phone?”, a quick response to avoid the investigation could be “just checking on something”. This type of interaction effectively halts the marital transparency, which leads to more emotional isolation.

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Instant internet access to pornography is a given. It is fairly common knowledge that males are more often engage in pornography because of its sexual components that “falsely” meet male sexual needs. Pornography addiction is not always associated with adultery but often meets the same marital demise related to the deception required for the act, which neglects the marital need of transparency and authenticity. Internet access not only provides opportunities for sexual betrayal, but the rising emotional affair phenomenon is a result of the social media construct, especially for women.

Sexuality needs are important to both genders. However, for women, the sexuality need is driven by emotional connection needs. Through accessing social media avenues, women are able to meet emotional needs through connecting with friends and loved ones by scrolling social media timelines and video chatting. Depending on the gender, whether viewing porn or social media, a lot of non-productive energy and wasted viewing time is utilized to fulfill unmet internal voids. As the marital emotional/romantic/sexual attachment is unmet, it leaves room for these activities to increase.

Social media can be an acceptable form of entertainment. However, the subtle temptations are revealed when, for example, an ex-lover sends a message that says “Been thinking about you. How are you?” The non-threatening message can lead to a series of conversations, wherein emotional voids are being fulfilled, seducing the partner into emotional connection with

someone other than their spouse. What once seemed innocent, becomes riddled with strings of messages that block marital transparency and authenticity. Deception becomes part of the marital interaction, and emotional needs are met outside of the marriage. Many of these emotional affairs become so entangled that sexually activity will more than likely follow. Reaching out to unhealthy avenues to soothe the pain of unresolved internal and marital issues will only result in the cycle of deception and betrayal, causing increased internal and relationship damage. If a partner is seduced by internet tempters, ignoring the real issues and engaging in “what feels good at the time” will not solve the problems.

The marriage, alone, has the power to fulfill the relational needs of each partner.

However, the marriage never has the power to meet the internal voids within each partner. Both entities need exploration.

Transparency and authenticity are mandated for marital health. As each partner first becomes authentic and transparent within themselves and is willing to openly share vulnerabilities with their spouse, the marriage will automatically build relationship intimacy that leads to long-term individual and relationship sustainability.

Warrior’s Wisdom: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Become aware of non-productive device use.

Begin to explore what is going on within yourself.

Get assistance if needed.

Begin to explore the unmet needs within your marriage. Get assistance if needed.

Challenge yourself to become more engaged in your “off-line” relationships.

Don’t trick yourself into believing the lies of the opposite sex’s seductive language.

Cover yourself with daily prayer to be alert and honest with yourself and God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal unresolved inner hurts.

Recognize and decrease mind-numbing activities.

Recall things you love to do and get more active.

Don’t reduce yourself to things you know are less than what God created you to be.

Contact Suzette at suzette@couplescarecenter.com

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We are a family owned business that has over twenty-five years of experience in the cabinet manufacturing business.

We look forward to helping you get your dream cabinets.

439 Virginia St. SW Lenoir, NC 28645 (828) 759-1057 20 | ON M AG A Z I N E N ACORNER ME FAITH EVERY

Payback in Pansies

by Pamela McCormick

The Bible says what you sow, you will reap. It was a normal day at school. I was teaching an Algebra class. One of my students walked in, rather disoriented, not sure why, but instead of his usual dose of Algebraic equations, I offered him a day off to lie down on a couch in the corner of my room. Little did I know at the time, that he needed the rest.

Not to be reminded of it again for ten years.

I had come home for lunch. I was no longer a high school teacher but now a college math lab tutor. My husband had asked some guys to do some landscape work in our yard and add in a plot of pansies. I pulled into the garage, got out of my car and heard a voice say, “Mrs. McCormick.” He told me that I probably didn’t remember him, so he began to tell me more. He asked if I remembered the day I let him skip class and rest on the couch. I remembered. He told me that he deserved punishment, because he had come to school drunk. He was struggling due to family problems, and although he was underage, he couldn’t handle it.

He told me that my kindness to him made him question why. He knew I could have turned him in and then he would be expelled, but I didn’t.

He went on to finish high school and get a great job with a landscaping business. He told me that he was getting ready to quit school and just give up, but because of my kindness, he didn’t.

He told me he told a lot of people about me.

He never thought he would see me again, and then that day… he was planting pansies in my yard. Little do we know when we demonstrate acts of kindness towards others what God can do with it, but just showing love is what this life is all about. God is in charge of the rest, and the payoff is lives changed. Thank God for opportunities to share His love and thank God for His blessings that come in sweet packages, when left in His hands.

We may never know the impact of our acts of kindness on this earth, but I pray that God will continue to use me to build His kingdom on this earth, and that means loving others the way He loves us, unconditionally.

“If I don’t have love, I am nothing.”

I Corinthians 13:2 “We love, because He first loved us.”

I John 4:19

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Bullying Not Tolerated!

by Joan Renfrow

At the beginning of every school year on the first day of school, when I would have a little talk with my class about my expectations, one of the things I always told them was that we are a family like it or not, and one thing I would not tolerate was bullying. We were to be kind, take up for one another.

When I was a little girl, I was very quiet and shy in front of other people, not necessarily with the family. That kind of put me in danger of being bullied. Mainly because I wouldn’t take up for myself, or if I saw someone who made fun of me, I would tremble inside and turn and go the other way. Some of those people lived in my neighborhood, and a few of them went to school with me and were in my class. They never physically abused me but made fun of me and laughed at me. That really affected my self-esteem, and I think I brought that into adulthood.

Words and actions and making fun of people can hurt for years and years. I was a normal looking child, intelligent even if I do say so myself, LOL, and even talented. I was not wild as a teenager and I was very close to my family, so maybe that made me a target.

As I’ve grown older, and maybe wiser, I realize that so many things that have happened in my life have caused me to bully myself.

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Even in the same way that those boys did when I was younger. I make fun of myself, laugh at myself, compare myself and even think that the bad things that have happened to me I deserve, or I’ve caused in some way.

On most days I have to say to myself, “girl get up and wash your face and come on Joan, get over it.” I have to remind myself that I am made in the image of God and that makes me beautiful. God does not cause theses bad things that happened to me, but we live in a world of sin, selfishness, and a roaring lion walking around seeking who he may devour-Satan. He is as real as the tree, the birds, everything that I am looking at right now. He wants me to look in the mirror and see those scars of bullying, not feeling like I’m worthy, that I deserve to have this cancer, all the negative thoughts.

I know all of this seems pessimistic, but I’m just being real. So many people live with scars of verbal abuse that last a lifetime and something you may fight every single day and sometimes leads to depression. I know this sounds so simple, but God really is the answer. He is kind; he weeps when we weep; he is Love, a healer, a friend that sticks closer than a brother. No matter what age we are,

he has a plan. He is not a bully laughing at us, making fun of us, belittling us.

Maybe you’re like me and you’re in a place that can cause you to feel depressed or discouraged. I have two good friends that have lost children. I cannot imagine. But I look at them so many times and they are so optimistic and smiling even though they hurt inside. I feel so guilty when I look at them and what they’ve been through. I’m getting better. I’m going to beat this cancer. Join hands with me today, remember he loves you and me, count your blessings, close your eyes, think about all the people that you love and that love you back.

Joan Renfrow is originally from Hartsville, SC. Joan taught school for 34 years and was at Hudson Elementary for 19. She resides in North Carolina with her husband, Paul, who is the worship leader at First Baptist HUDSON. They have 2 children Sallie and James.

This was on my heart, and it may be just for me. But maybe there’s somebody out there that I can help in some small way. Maybe you’re dealing with the things I’m dealing with as well. Remember Jesus is by our side and He never ever leaves us. Girl, get up and wash your face.

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Learning to Forgive

by Practicing Forgiveness

By Anthony Acampora

The ability to forgive someone who has hurt us seems to elude many people and can become a spiritual poison, as we are now operating outside of God’s will. This is why learning to forgive by practicing forgiveness is such a major component to living an abundant life.

One of the most destructive and painful times in my life had a direct correlation with my inability and or reluctance to forgive. When harboring resentments in some distorted way we may feel we are enacting some form retribution against those who hurt us but the reality is we are the one who has become tormented with our own thoughts, while enabling the person to repeatedly to hurt us in our own minds. This is in no way an easy task and it took me nearly seven years to forgive those who hurt me, but it is entirely possible.

When I finally was able to truly forgive from the heart through actually applying Biblical principles and much prayer, it was as though the door to the prison in my mind was unlocked and swung wide open. If you are in any way familiar with God’s Word, you know that one of the major points emphasized is the area of forgiveness. If we know there is such an emphasis on forgiveness and that it was not just a suggestion, then why is it so many of us struggle to forgive and let go of resentments. I believe what often occurs is the hurt is so deep and profound many people do not realize that forgiving someone is not for the other person, it’s for our own well-being and peace of mind.

One of the major obstacles in the process of forgiveness is allowing ourselves to become vulnerable with the person who already hurt us in some way or multiple ways. We may say things such as, “I was already hurt once by this person, why would I put myself out there again?”

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The reality is, if we do not forgive, we allow that person to hurt us over and over through our own destructive thoughts, which usually leads into destructive actions. I carried this toxic person into every aspect of my life by playing the same horrendous tape in my head.

Why would we ever want to spent another minute with the person who caused us so much pain? The answer is simple, we wouldn’t yet we continue to do it by allowing the person to beat us into a state of darkness, bitterness or worse. It’s the equivalent of watching the worst horror movie you have ever seen and then watching it thousands of times in that movie theater in your head. Why would we ever want to give someone that type of power!? When we feed those resentments, we are on the downward spiral to losing hope. When it comes to forgiving, begin by practicing forgiveness on the smaller things and build up to the major areas. When we begin to interrupt the pattern of revisiting the hurt, which is like pouring gasoline on a fire, it is then that we will begin to move on with life and start experiencing the amazing things that God created in this world for us to enjoy.

If we can eliminate the “Why” questions and focus on the “How” question, namely “How can I grow through this and learn from this, begin to really stand on God’s truth and know that He will work it for good.” We don’t need to know the details of His plan, just trust that He has one. It will begin to change your perspective on the situations that are causing so much pain. Once you do this, you have now begun the amazing process of learning to forgive by practicing forgiveness!

Anthony Acampora is the Faith Program Director & Chaplain at Banyan Treatment Centers. He is a published author, writer and speaker. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in ministry from Vision International University and received an Advanced Diploma in Biblical Studies from the Int’l School of Ministry. He is a former board member of the Henderson Behavioral Health, FACT and the National Alliance Mental Illness, Broward County. In 2019 Anthony was selected “Professional of the Year” by: Broward National Recovery Month Organization. In 2018 he was selected as Global Goodwill Ambassador representing the USA. In 2015 he received the “Volunteer Recognition Award” from National Alliance Mental Illness, Broward County In 2014 Selected “Public Citizen of the Year by: National Association of Social Workers, Broward County.

He is the host of the Faith in Recovery Show. www.banyantreatmentcenters.com www.faithinrecovery.com

Our Staff Member and Therapy Dog, Luke, at Banyan’s Faith in Recovery program.

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THE CROSS AND THE CROWN

By Lynn Downham As Easter approaches, our hearts turn to the cross and the resurrection, to the promise kept that God would send One to save us and to the coming promise of our resurrection in heaven.

It seems a fitting time to tell the story of the Cross and the Crown.

One year, new in my faith, I decided that I wanted a new cross to wear around my neck and like all of us 20th century shoppers I went straight to the Internet to see what I could find.

After perusing countless pages of all sorts of cross pendants, I saw IT. It was beautiful. It was just what I wanted. It was not extravagantly priced at all, quite the contrary, but it was awesome. It was small, flat, shaped rather like a Catholic medal and what I really liked about it were the four different colored gemstones placed on each end. It was perfect.

Mike, my husband, decided this was a gift.

From him. Not content with MY choice, (the one who is going to wear the cross!), he picks out a different cross. It is OK. It is a very nice 26 | ON M AG AEVERY Z I N E N ACORNER ME FAITH

cross. It is gold, nicely shaped with red-colored gemstones covering the whole cross, but it is not the ONE. Sighing to myself, seeing that there’s no way he’s changing his mind even after I’ve showed him the one I like, I said, “Yes, that one will be OK.” (By the way, I still wear this cross today.) Learning to submit can be so hard sometimes.

Fast forward to Christmas. Mike’s cross arrived. I have it. We’re in North Carolina visiting the family for the holidays and we go to see one of my brothers, a believer that just loves the Lord. He comes striding across the room and holds out a big refrigerator magnet to me and says “I just thought of you when I saw this! This is for you!” He had no idea about the earlier part of the story. But as he hands it to me, (it’s not wrapped), I look down and see a refrigerator magnet fashioned exactly as the cross I had wanted, different colored gemstones and all!

And at that instant the Lord spoke to me and said, “I’VE GOT A CROWN FOR YOU.”

Obviously, this made the sacrifice of my desired cross much easier to bear. I told my brother the story as he too loves to hear stories about what the Lord does in our lives. I have held onto to those words and to that promise and look forward to that day when I might receive that promised crown so that I may cast it back at His feet.

Incidentally, a year or two later, I was left with finishing some beautiful stained-glass windows that a minister who was relocating had started at our church. The middle window of 5 was to be a large cross and I asked the Lord what type of cross He wanted there. Immediately I looked down and there staring back at me was the Full Gospel logo on a notepad and thus the cross you see here.

I pray all of you have a wonderful Easter holiday and I will be looking forward to reading all the great new articles in the next edition of Faith On Every Corner and singing my favorite Easter hymn, “Christ the Lord is risen today! Hallelujah!” God bless, Lynn

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been proved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” ~James 1:12

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(Carl’s mom writes him letters occasionally. Carl is her only child. Carl’s father died when he was in college. Living in the Arizona, Carl calls his Mom in the Carolinas as often as he can on Sundays. Carl’s mom is in her 80s. She lives in a contemporary world with old fashioned values.)

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DEAR CARL

Anna Friend

Dear Carl,

Daylight is longer. I find myself longing to be outside. I think of our home on the hill. I loved my porch. I spent many warm evenings waiting to see the dirt kick up off our long driveway. I always wanted to be waiting when your dad was returning from work. He would get out of the car and meet me on the steps. He hugged me way too tight. I found myself smoothing down my ironed apron every time. He would say, “Mama, I smell the love…what’s for supper?” That man never said a word about my White Shoulders perfume.

Carl, I miss your dad daily. We lost him so long ago, but we had something special. He wasn’t a flower and gift man, but he made me feel good. Preaching was about cherishing your spouse on Sunday. I am in my 80s and just now learning the good words of the Bible. It says that men should love their wives as their own bodies. Your dad loved me but if I went by his body, what does a pot belly, oil stained hands, and stinky boot feet say about his love? Carl, you take good care of yourself and I pray daily that you remain healthy. Son, you are to love Donna with the same care and love you have for yourself. Nourish her with good words and cherish the many years you have shared, even when she has her moments. I sound like the preacher, don’t I? I won’t apologize. Sunday was a good day in church.

We have new people moving into the cottages. Three more women moving in this weekend. Lost a few residents at Christmas and into the New Year. Shirley went to the office and made nice with the property manager. He told her the new tenants were women. You should have heard her carry on that no men were moving in. She was already planning to be the first one with her welcome basket for one. Shirley hasn’t been feeling well lately. I worry about her. She says she is okay but mourning the loss of her long, pink Cadillac Deville. The thing was a country block long. She was always bumping into things. It finally gave up and died. I think it suffocated from all her perfume.

Well, son. I must go hang some laundry. Last year they put up some clothes lines for me. The neighbors said I was making our community look cheap. I don’t care. I love hanging out my sheets. They can’t even see the laundry. The gardener that put them in hung them very low so I could reach the lines. He said, “Senora, you muy poquito – very small. I hang low for you.” He is a nice man. Shirley says he avoids her. Poor thing. She gets her feelings hurt so easily. I admit I carry out one sheet at a time. I move very slow and I am careful. Don’t worry, son.

Call me again soon, son. Tell Donna that I am sorry she has had so many headaches. Maybe she needs to stay home more and rest.

I love you, Mom Ephesians 5:28-29 English Standard Version (ESV) “In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church.”

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Oatman, Arizona Oatman is a village in the Black Mountains of Mohave County, Arizona, United States. Located at an elevation of 2,710 feet, it began as a small mining camp soon after two prospectors struck a $10 million gold find in 1915, though the vicinity had already been settled for a number of years.

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ROAD TRIPPIN’ WITH KAREN & CRAIG P H OTO S BY K A R E N R U H L

While going through my photos trying to decide on what to share this month, I happened upon photos from Oatman, AZ. The area around Oatman is desert, very dry, but amazingly beautiful. The small town of Oatman has gone to the mules, yep, not the dogs, but the mules.

Craig and I laughed the entire time in Oatman watching the mules. They know what retail stores sell food so tourists can feed them. It is a great marketing idea for the stores because you have to go inside to buy the feed. And what parent would leave without getting some food for the kids to feed the mules.

At one point, Craig had food and was surrounded by mules. I would have laughed myself silly, but one mule started to buck and I was more than a little afraid that Craig was going to get kicked. Thankfully, he was fine. That is until he tried to get into the van to leave.

Craig and I had snacks in the van and this mule decided he wanted to check them out. Craig was trying to negotiate without much luck. After a few attempts, we were both in the car and headed out of this charming little town.

We highly recommend a visit, just lock up your snacks and watch those kicking mules!

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SUBMISSION POLICY

Magazine Submission Policy and Guidelines • Faith On Every Corner magazine is digitally published on a monthly basis by Faith On Every Corner, LLC • All submissions are subject to editorial review prior to acceptance and publication • Content: Focused on articles, stories, poems, and testimonies centered on acts of faith and service • Audience: Christian, family oriented • Rights: Contributing writers retain the rights to their work, granting Faith On Every Corner, LLC the right to publish, re-publish, share, archive, and for promotional use.

• Word Count: Suggested length is 500 – 750 words.

• Submission Format: Microsoft Word documents are preferred.

• By-Line: By-line is included in publication, table of contents, and contributor highlights • Acceptance: All submissions will be promptly acknowledged, and the author will be advised via e-mail if their submission has been accepted, of any suggested edits, and which issue it is scheduled to be published in.

• Distribution: Writers will be provided with a digital link to the publication in which their published work appears. The link is sharable through social media and is suitable for use on writer’s website or blog. The magazine is downloadable from the publisher’s website.

• Compensation: Faith On Every Corner is a free digital magazine. Currently, we do not offer compensation for published content.

• Faith On Every Corner reserves the right to change or modify these submission guidelines at any time without prior notice.

Please contact us at faithoneverycorner@ gmail.com for clarification or questions regarding these guidelines. Prior to submitting to Faith On Every Corner, we suggest that you review prior issues of the magazine at www.faithoneverycorner.com/magazine.html

FAITH ON EVERY CORNER

The following are the planned themes for the calendar year 2020:

April - Spring May - Patriotic June - Summer Fun July - Freedom August - The Heat is On September - Back to School October - Harvest Time November - Thanksgiving December - Christmas While we do like to follow our scheduled themes, we will gladly review suggested topics or content.

Calling All Writers!

Faith On Every Corner Publisher & Editor in Chief: Karen Ruhl Senior Editor & Business Manager: Craig Ruhl Photography: Karen Ruhl Staff Writers: Craig Ruhl, Karen Ruhl Submit Articles For Consideration to: FaithOnEveryCorner@gmail.com Phone: 828-305-8571 www.FaithOnEveryCorner.com

Spring has Sprung!

Happy Easter

©Copyright Faith On Every Corner 2018, 2019, 2020

Disclaimer and Copyright Notification The Information contained in the published works of Faith On Every Corner LLC has been received from sources that we believe to be reliable. However, neither Faith On Every Corner LLC nor its authors, writers, editors, or publisher can guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information published. Faith On Every Corner LLC, its authors, writers, editors, and publishers are not responsible for any errors or omissions in our published works.

All Faith On Every Corner© publications, websites, blogs, and other media are copyrighted. All rights are reserved. Faith On Every Corner© published works may be reproduced, shared, copied, or transmitted as long as the published work is unaltered and contains proper attribution to Faith On Every Corner©. Contributing writers to Faith On Every Corner© retain full rights to their articles.

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M Y S O N G O F R E B I RT H A N D S P R I N G

by Brenda McDaniel

Warmer weather and bright sunshine to put your heart and mind in a pleasant mood. To do what you want, to stay outside as long as you like, to jog, run and play either as a child or adult. Play games or sports like tennis, golf, basketball, baseball, or football. Or if you like the water, go swimming or go to the beautiful beaches throughout our vast country. Take your pets out or let them outside for long walks and playtime. Enjoy the beautiful creation of nature that the Lord has blessed us with since time began on earth. Sit on your porch or patio and enjoy the beautiful skies, birds chirping, squirrels and rabbits running through your yard. And enjoy the variety of trees and flowers beginning to bloom.

Spring is a time of rebirth of nature and for animals, insects, etc. to come out and do what nature tells them to do. It’s coming from the cold, cloudy, snowy days of winter. And from being inside, trying to stay warm, to taking your coat or jacket off and enjoying the pleasant weather of Spring. You learn to be more thankful for pleasant weather after coming through the harsh, cold winter.

We remember that these things are very similar to our Lord Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. The dark frigid winter is like this world which was lost and evil before and during the death of our Lord and Savior. It was crying out for healing, spiritual and physical. All people wanting someone to care for and love them for who they are and not how others may see them. Then Christ arose from the tomb, and Spring came once again. The cold, dreary, lonesome winter left, and, in its place, Spring came a bright, loving and forgiving time.

Nature forgave the Winter for its harshness, as Christ forgave this world for mistreating Him so. He was put on the cruel cross, died for our sins, and was resurrected. Easter is a rebirth of Spring once again. And hope arose once again in the hearts and minds of man and woman. For He, our Savior Jesus Christ brought us forgiveness of our sins and hope for the future and eternal life through his death and resurrection. Praise our Lord!!!!

Easter Poem Our Lord smiled.

Our Lord healed.

As our Lord died.

Our Lord cried.

“Father forgive them, for they know not, what they do!”

He Arose, He Arose!!!

For he is Risen!!!

Our Lord be Praised!!!

Brenda has her first book published through Page Publishing called My Angel My Hero. She has fulfilled her lifelong dream of being a writer. She also has an MA in Counseling. She is retired and lives in Montgomery county Virginia.

My Angel My Hero is available on Amazon.

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