The Fit Christian July/Aug 2013 by His Work Christian Ministries

The

FC Fit Christian

A Christian Health & Fitness Magazine

Race of Love Lynn and Jamie Parks

Help Your Pet Live Long & Healthy â&#x20AC;&#x153;For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.â&#x20AC;? Galatians 5:1 July/Aug 2013

PUBLISHER His Work Christian Ministries www.hisworkministries.org EDITOR Rev. Angela J. Willard Perez editor@fitchristian.com COLUMNISTS Chris Chapan Kids4Christ Rev. Angela J. Willard Perez Scripture & Reflection editor@fitchristian.com CONTRIBUTORS Family Features Chris Hambrecht (Em Doodles) Reverend Fun Chris Chapan Heather Letto Michael Blunk Th.D. Michaelle Bragassa-Holman FREE ADVERTISING www.fitchristian.com/advertise.html The Fit Christian Magazine www.fitchristian.com To donate to this magazine and ministry, visit www.hisworkministries.org /donate.html or click here

© Copyright 2003-2013 The Fit Christian Magazine. A publication of His Work Christian Ministries. All Rights Reserved. No part of the magazine may be copied and reprinted without the express written permission from the publisher. Feel free to print the online edition of this magazine on your personal printer and pass it out at churches, gyms, to your friends and family, co-workers, and anyone else who would enjoy The Fit Christian Magazine. Permission is not given to print and bind the magazine professionally. If you wish to have a professionally printed and bound magazine please contact us or purchase from fitchristian.magcloud.com.

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The FC July/August 2013 | i

1 Race of Love Adversity strikes many of us, it can make or break you. However, having the love, faith and strength of Christ in your life can help you overcome life’s insurmountable challenges. This is what happened in the lives of Lynn and Jamie Parks….

3 Summer Beauty 101

Whether your summer plans include an exotic trip or simply enjoying sunny days with friends, it's the perfect time to add a little fun into your beauty routine. Celebrity makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff shares her expert tips to freshen up your

4 Putting the Enemy Under Our Feet While standing in line at the grocery store checkout, I am often both amused and disturbed over the litany of in-my-face magazine covers. I’m sure you’ve seen them all--provocative images of men and women tempting us to believe aesthetic perfection is obtainable and available to us all….

6 Help Your Pet Live Long and Healthy Pet parents do everything they can to ensure their dogs and cats are around as long as possible. Pets, much like humans, need a healthy diet and plenty of exercise to help them live a long and happy life….

look….

Articles Online: Sun 101 for Summertime Family Fun As summer approaches, many families take playtime outdoors, whether it's a day at the beach, in the park, or riding bikes around the neighborhood. Spending time outdoors means families need to protect themselves from the sun's harmful UV rays.…

A Healthier You: Shape Up, Get Fit and Have Fun This Summer In a perfect world, everyone would eat healthfully, exercise regularly and find time for a little bit of fun every day. The reality is, busy schedules, family time and social activities make it challenging to stay on track. Here are a few easy ways to add more health and balance to your daily routine.….

Fatherly Tips for Raising Healthy, Successful Kids: Children Benefit From Involved Dads Everyone knows the classic love story. Man and woman fall in love, get married, have a baby and live happily ever after. However, real life isn't always the fairy tale. While today's version of the modern family has changed over time, the importance of parental involvement in children's lives has not….

Read These & Other Articles Online

ii | The FC July/August 2013

7 Kids4Christ

Fitness Events

Celebrate Freedom with Fitness! | Keep Kids Busy, Learning You can stay up-to-date on fitness events in your area by This Summer | Memory Verse: John 8:36 | Em Doodles visiting these Web sites:

11 Food & Nutrition

Bodybuilding-Fitness-Figure Upcoming Events Food & Nutrition American Classic | Get Your Grill On | www.bodybuildbid.com/upcoming.html Nutrition Tips for Busy Lifestyles | Wild Blueberries

18 Exercise the Right Way Six Tips: Get Healthy & In Shape for Summer | Outdoor Family Workout | Warm Weather Shape-Up Tips

21 Missions Focus Focus on India: “International Quickening Bible College” Homeless, for a Night | How You Can Make a Difference

Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, and Fitness Contests www.naturalbodybuildingevents.com/month.html Professional Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, and Fitness Competitions www.naturalbodybuildingevents.com/ProShows.htm You can read the Editor’s Letter and column “On the Homefront” online at www.fitchristian.com/blog/

27 Spiritual Fitness Cancer of the Christian Soul

More online and on our Blog…

Christian M k i or

es stri ni

His W

You can stay up-to-date with what His Work Christian Ministries is doing around the world by visiting us online at www.hisworkministries.org.

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Race of Love By Chris Chapan

dversity strikes many of us, it can make or break you. However, having the love, faith and strength of Christ in your life can help you overcome life’s insurmountable challenges. This is what happened in the lives of Lynn and Jamie Parks. Lynn and Jamie’s love story began when they met at a party in Oak Forest and fell in love during an Uno game. Jamie was a postman and Lynn was going to college. They enjoyed spending time together; after only two months of dating, they were engaged to be married. Then tragedy struck just five months before their wedding date.

Lynn and her brother were on the way to pick up Jamie to attend a White Sox baseball game when they were involved in a terrible car crash. Lynn was badly hurt with a devastating brainstem injury that left her cognitively impaired, unable to walk, and not expected to live. But the Lord had a purpose in Jamie and Lynn’s lives. Seventeen days later Lynn woke up from her coma, and seven months later, she began to speak and communicate. Jamie believed that Lynn was a gift from God, and he was there to help her throughout her therapy. Lynn began to work aggressively on therapy, proving to the doctors she could walk again, and seven years later, her

dream of walking down the aisle came true and she was able to marry Jamie. Jamie, who has been an avid runner for many years, hated the fact that Lynn had to wait at the finish line. He wanted to spend every minute with her. They came up with a solution to run together. And so their journey began with running 5Ks, 10Ks, and marathons together. The first training run was around Yankee Woods in Oak Forest, Illinois, and the 3.25-mile course took them over an hour to complete it. As time went on they got a lot faster. Presently participating in many 5Ks and 10Ks, Jamie and Lynn regularly win in their pace group.

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Their first race together was the Heart and Soul 10K in Olympia Fields, Illinois, in 1991. They started with a hospital wheelchair but they eventually were blessed with a racing chair right before their last marathon in Boston. Miracles occurred in their personal lives as well. Lynn was able to conceive, and in 2000 their daughter, Annalyn, was born. Annalyn took an early interest in running and now runs races alongside of her family. At the age of 45, Jamie wanted to run one more race, and his dream was to qualify for the Boston Marathon. He worked hard and was able to qualify for Boston, running a marathon in Toronto at 3:15 hours. Many of his training runs consisted of treadmill runs of 20 miles and at least 3 hours long. Again, Jamie faced adversity with tendonitis. But after determination, prayer, and help from a fantastic physical therapist, Jerry Davis (PT, OCS, from Nova Care in Tinley Park, Illinois), Jamie was able to complete Boston in 2008. Philippians 4:13 states: “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” Jamie and Lynn showed through Christ that Jamie could finish

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the race strong, even with a filming crew watching him during the entire race of 3:29 hours. Jamie and his family have had a lot of opportunities to be a light and witness for their community. He and his family have been featured in many articles for local and famous newspapers, including the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, and even the National Enquirer. They have also done interviews for local Chicago television stations. They have a special on Discovery Health Channel entitled “Marathon Love” that charts their running journey. The couple also has been recognized by Runners World as “Heroes of Running” and been featured on the “Oprah Show” and most recently on “Where Are They Now?” on the OWN network. Additionally, they have been able to speak openly about their faith in running expos and other events. Acts 20:24 (NIV) says: “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.” In their everyday lives and casual conversations with others, they have had opportunities to witness wherever they go. They are a light and an example to those who know them, and doors open up for them in both races and in their neighborhood.

two very long days. Jamie and Lynn’s daughter, Analynn, was the first and youngest runner in the race of all the participants. Her parents were the last so they could hand the baton to each other. In the last year, Annalyn (13), has been able to improve her time and enjoys racing with her family and relatives. Annalyn, a focused individual, earns straight A’s and is already planning on running marathons in her future. Jamie and his family also believe in the importance of regular church attendance. Often, he is only able to race on Sundays due to his job in the post office. But he also is able to make church services, even when he has a race. Jamie frequently will run to and from church. He participates in the worship team with his wife, and is involved in music ministry along with his wife and daughter. The Parks family firmly believe in Matthew 19:26, which states: “With God all things are possible.”

To find more information about Jamie and Lynn, purchase their DVD story “Marathon Love” or contact them at their website at http://www.lynjame.com. All photos courtesy of and copyright by Jamie Parks.

Another unique race occurred last summer. It was the Rangar Relay, and they ran all night long. The Rangar Relay is a group of runners who run more than 200 miles over a span of

Summer Beauty 101 Summer Beauty from an Expert Whether your summer plans include an exotic trip or simply enjoying sunny days with friends, it's the perfect time to add a little fun into your

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

beauty routine. Celebrity makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff shares her expert tips to freshen up your look.

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primer will protect against sun damSource: Nair | Family Features

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Putting the Enemy Under Our Feet By Heather Letto (Based on the same article from The Haven Journal titled “Put that Airbrushed Idol under your Feet”

hile standing in line at the grocery store checkout, I am often both amused and disturbed over the litany of in-myface magazine covers. I’m sure you’ve seen them all--provocative images of men and women tempting us to believe aesthetic perfection is obtainable and available to us all. In addition to well-touched photos of the elite and beautiful, we are beguiled by super-secret diet tricks and fashion advice as well as the hottest

trends in fat-burning and musclebuilding exercises. Oddly enough, right beside those same publications hyping aesthetic perfection lie another set of magazines whose covers display even more provocative close-ups… of thick, fudgy triple layer cakes, sticky icecream parfaits, dreamy cream puffs and other mouth-watering delights inspiring us to flex sleepy taste buds and indulge in the decadence of desert. What a mixed message we receive! So how do we navigate the waters of these contradicting communications and not fall into the pit of secularism? As my own past was riddled with the quest for aesthetic perfection, I know all-to-well the frustration of the motley messages sent by advertisers. Although Jesus has delivered me from certain bondage, even today I still have moments of weakness and am very aware of the allure of the enemy to

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bind me up all over again with his lies. The enemy, often disguised as light, lurks in all corners of our lives, so it’s no big surprise to see him parading a sensual smile at the very location millions of us will be prone to occupy. So, let’s disarm the enemy on this one. Let’s shine God’s light into this dark place. You know that because of the wars waged against my father David from all sides, he could not build a temple for the Name of the LORD his God until the LORD put his enemies under his feet (1 Kings 5:3). As the above scripture states, David could not build a temple for the Lord until the Lord put his enemies under his feet. Because of this, the temple was not built until the reign of his son, King Solomon, when peace was among the land. Unfortunately, the temple built by Solomon has long since been destroyed (and rebuilt and re-destroyed). However, we live in a new age--under a new covenant--and when invited in, the Holy Spirit dwells within us, deeming our bodies the new temples. And frankly, if these temples are going to thrive and remain holy, we also need to have our enemies put under our feet.

Don’t misunderstand. I don’t wish to imply the enemy is a magazine cover or even the supermarket who houses these publications. They are just tools. However, I am of the mind to believe that the quest for aesthetic perfection while simultaneously focusing on a life abundantly filled with a rich and ravenous appetite for empty calories is certain set-up for failure. It’s a false light. We are drawn in to the allure that we will receive healing in the form of weight loss, acceptance and fulfillment. Yet this mixed message instead winds up breeding shame, anger, hopelessness, envy, and pride.

…The LORD put our enemies under our feet.*

For King Solomon, the mission of building the Lord’s temple was an enormous, once-in-a-lifetime honor, which he did not take lightly. He used only the finest cedar and pine from Lebanon and assigned the cutting and preparation of timber and stone to gifted craftsmen. The walls of the temple were adorned with sculpted cherubim, palm trees and open flowers. The inner and outer rooms of the temple had floors covered in pure gold. Only the finest materials were used in the construction of the Lord’s temple, which was mindfully constructed with extreme precision. After all, this was a place of worship; a holy place; a house of prayer, and ultimately the place where God’s presence would manifest.

Therefore, in modern day, as earthly our bodies are the location where the Spirit of the Lord makes His dwelling, it would make sense to honor him with only the purest and best materials in the building of these temples. Yes, you and I are the temples, and the food we consume--the materials used to build and sustain our earthly temples--ought to be well mindful, intentional and the purest of what we can locate in our particular corner of the world. In that same vein, a smattering of dessert here-and-there shouldn’t derail that pursuit of honor and good health. When we moderate the unnecessary and thoughtfully reach for the best available to us, our temples will thrive and we will be ready to be the worshippers and disciples He has called us to be. Just as it was written in John 2:17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.” Let us also be consumed with zeal for the house of our heavenly Father.

Prayer: Father, I thank you for the amazing human body that you have created. I thank you for finding me a worthy temple, washed clean by the blood of my Savior. I thank you for continually coming to my aid when I call out to you. I pray that as I walk through my day today, you will assist me in keeping your temple holy.

To read about the author, Heather Letto, or read more of her work, visit her blog at http://noapologiesonlyfaith.com.

* The Lord’s enemies are under His feet, and we are in Him, so our enemies are also under our feet! Glory! 1 John 4:13: Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. _____ 1 John 5:20: And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. _____ Psalm 18:38: I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet. _____ Matthew 22:44: The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? _____ 1 Corinthians 15:25: For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. _____ Hebrews 2:7-8: Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. All scriptures quoted from the King James Version (KJV) by Public Domain.

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Pet parents do everything they can to ensure their dogs and cats are around as long as possible. Pets, much like humans, need a healthy diet and plenty of exercise to help them live a long and happy life. Good nutrition is key There are many factors involved when it comes to choosing a pet food for your dog or cat. Keep in mind if your pets aren't digesting the ingredients properly, nutrition is not being absorbed. Get maximum nutrition from every bite by purchasing a natural, high quality food with a digestive health support system, such as Holistic Select Natural Pet Food. Ingredients to look for include: Probiotics - or good bacteria help keep your pet's immune system healthy. Holistic Select contains live probiotics that are added to the food after it has been cooked and cooled. This process assures maximum survival of the probiotics, so that your pet reaps the full benefits of their food. Prebiotics stimulate the growth and maintenance of good bacteria, like probiotics, in your pet's digestive tract. Fiber plays an important role in human digestive health, and it also 6 | The FC July/August 2013

plays an integral role in your pet's digestive health. Look for foods with fiberrich ingredients, such as oatmeal, flaxseed, pumpkin and papaya to promote digestive regularity. Digestive enzymes help your pet's body break down proteins, fiber and carbohydrates. This ensures your pet is getting the nutrients from their food, while reducing stress on their organs. This is especially crucial for aging pets. Get pets moving every day Dogs and cats used to have to work for a living. Many were bred to be mousers, hunters, herders or protectors. Most pets today have a much more sedentary lifestyle. They spend their days lying around, waiting for their human companions to come home and are rewarded for their patience with a big bowl of food. However, regular exercise supports healthy circulation of both nutrients and waste and is essential for a pet to have a happy and long life. Experts recommend cat owners plan a daily play session. Toys that mimic the actions of their natural prey - birds,

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

mice or bugs - should get them up and moving. Dogs need to be walked for 20 to 30 minutes each day, while larger breeds often need much more. At your next veterinarian visit, ask if your pooch is healthy enough for an exercise program and ask for recommendations based on breed. Adequate exercise is an important step toward good health. It's also a great way to reduce such unwanted behaviors as chewing, digging, scratching or whining. To learn more about the importance of digestive health for your pet, visit www.HolisticSelect.com.

Source: Holistic Select | Family Features

Celebrate Freedom with Fitness!

This is a series of activities to help celebrate the freedom of America. These games are divided into three sections. Warm-up activities are great to start the game session, and medium and active games are great for the middle sections and closing games are wonderful for a great cool down. So if you are looking for activities to burn off all those barbeque calories look no future than Patriotic Games—fun for the entire family!

Warm-Up Activities Let the Parade Begin Materials: Patriotic Music, Colorful Balls with streamers attached, Chute

Have the children hold the parachute with both hands. Play patriotic music and have everyone march in place to the beat of the music. Wave the chute as the children march. Stop the music and let the parade begin. Have the children toss the balls onto the chute. Make sure everyone turns in the same direction as they hold the chute with one hand. Begin the music, and march in a circle, waving the parachute as they do. Have fun watching the streamers fly into the air like gently moving flags. Stop the music again and turn around. Start the music and march in the other direction. Try these songs as you are celebrating the 4th of July: Designs in the Sky (Are you Sleeping Brother John) Fourth of July, Fourth of July, It is fun, it is fun. A picnic in the park, And then after dark, Designs in the sky, Fourth of July. On the Fourth of July (London Bridge) It is our country’s birthday, Birthday, birthday. It is our country’s birthday, On the Fourth of July! On Independence Day (Mary Had a Little Lamb) Fireworks go snap, snap, snap! Crack, crack, crack! Zap, zap, zap! Fireworks make me clap, clap, clap On Independence Day!

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Way up in the Sky (Row, Row, Row Your Boat) Wave, wave, wave the flag, Hold it very high. Watch the colors gently wave, Way up in the sky. March, march, march around, and hold the flag up high. Wave, wave, wave the flag, Way up in the sky. Parachute Fireworks Materials: Comic Newspaper Sheets

Have the children sit around the parachute. Give each child several sheets of paper. Have the children crumple up the paper into small tight balls and toss them onto the chute. After the fireworks have been made, have the children hold the edge of the chute and stand up. Everyone counts, one, two, three, fireworks! As they shout fireworks, everyone quickly waves the chute high into the air and lower it, launching the fireworks into the sky. Catch the fireworks as they come down. Collect those newspaper balls that fly off the chute, count and launch them repeatedly. Continue the game until interest is lost.

Medium Activity Games Throwing Against the Potomac Materials: Traffic cones, Balls, Frisbees, Tape measure, Tape or long rope, One piece of paper, One pencil for every three students

Divide the groups of children into teams of three people. Give each student a name that reminds her of a president or object from the Fourth of July. Student one will be the thrower, Student two will be measurer, and Student three will record the score. Each group chooses the object that they want to throw. The thrower in each group stands behind the throwing line. The throwers should spread out. Each group stands behind the throwing line. The measurer stands out in the field. The recorder writes the score down on the paper. The distance is measured from the starting line to the spot thrown. Then Student two becomes the thrower, Student three becomes the measurer, and Student one becomes the recorder. The procedure repeats until all

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three students have performed each job. Then the group chooses a different object to throw and the entire throwing measuring, and recording sequence repeats itself. Make sure the recorders write down the throwers name, the object being thrown, and the distances.

turn ends. Teams reverse roles (the British become the Colonists and vice versa), and a new round begins.

Uncle Sam Tag Materials: Four cone markers, One necklace, Set of colored flags (You can also use colorful scarves)

Fill up some red, white, and blue water balloons. Have player line up into two equal lines, spacing the lines approximately four to six feet apart. Once the lines are formed and the players are spread out, the players standing straight across from one another become partners in the water balloon toss. Hand out one water balloon to each of the players on one side and let the tossing begin! Each time the balloon is successfully tossed, have the students back up one-step.

Set out four cone markers. Two will be the starting line and the other two will be the ending lines. Choose one player to be an “Uncle Sam,” who stands in the center of the play area wearing the necklace. All other players tuck a flag in their waistband or pocket so that three-fourths of it is showing and stand behind one of the starting lines. Start line players, start the game by chanting: “Uncle Sam, Uncle Sam, May we cross your ocean? Uncle Sam answers, yes if you are wearing (names a color) red. Players wearing red get a free pass to the other end. Then on the go signal from Uncle Sam, the rest of the players try to run to the opposite end line without getting their flag pulled. Tagged players become Uncle Sam’s helpers. Begin the game again and this time, Uncle it calls out another color. Keep going until all players are caught but one. This player becomes the new Uncle Sam for the next game.

Patriotic Water Toss Materials: Balloons

Forefather’s Fitness Materials: Red Hippy Hop, Blue Romper Stompers or Stilts, White Ball, (Other objects that are patriotic in color)

Players divide into two teams. They each take a turn taking the hippy hop back from the start one end and then to the start. After each member of the team has used the hippy hop, then have the players do the same thing with stilts, and then last rolling the ball. When all team members have used all three objects, they have finished the game. The team that finishes first are the winners.

Paul Revere’s Ride Materials: Four cones to mark off playing area.

Mark off a playing area with two cones representing one line (Colonists) of the playing area and the other two cones showing the other end (British) of the playing area. in addition, divide players into two teams, the British and the Colonists. The British stand in the middle of the playing field and the Colonists on the other side of the playing area. When the game begins, the Colonists will attempt to cross the playing field to reach safety just past the British starting line. Meantime, the British try to tag them. Tagged players are out of the game and should exit the playing field. When five people are out of the game they all may return to the opposing team. A group leader holds up either one or two fingers to tell whether the British will attack by land or by sea. If the British are to attack by land, they must run as if they are racing a horse. If they are to attack by sea, they act as if they are steering a ship. Anyone who does not act like a ship or horse is out of the game. When all Colonists are out of either the game or safe beyond the British line, the

8 | The FC July/August 2013

Active Games Red, White, and Blue Tag Materials: Red, blue, and white chips

One person is chosen to be the tagger. Everyone else holds three colored chips in their closed fists. The tagger chases the others and tries to tag them. When tagged, they have to give the person one of their chips. When the tagger to has collected one red, one white, and one blue chip he yells “Happy Fourth of July!” A new player is chosen to be the tagger for the next round.

Statue of Liberty Run Students run from one area to another with a pool noodle (torch) and book from one place to another. The team that finishes first wins.

Cool Down Activities What are Red, White, and Blue? Children sit in a circle. Kids must think of things that are red, white, and blue. The first child starts by thinking of something that is red then the next child thinks of something that is white and the next child thinks of something that is blue. Play then continues with each member in the circle thinking of something that is red, white, and blue. There are only five seconds to think of a word or object. If you cannot think of something in five seconds, you are out of the game. The game goes on until there is only one child left.

"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36

Fourth of July Beach ball Game Materials: Beach ball

Blow up a beach ball and ask a question about one of the presidents or Fourth of July history. Throw the beach ball to a child in the classroom and the person who catches it must answer that question.

†

We are promised by the scripture of freedom in John 8:32, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” As we celebrate this holiday and remember the freedom that the Lord has given us may we continue to rely upon the power of the Holy Spirit and the sacrifice made by our countryman and those who have gone before us.

Fourth of July References: Beach ball Games www.kinderart.com/across/beachball.shtml Child Fun www.childfun.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=14 Fourth of July Trivia Questions http://games.funschool.com/game.php?g=1099 Landry, Joanne M. and Landry, Maxwell J. Ready-to-Use P.E. Activities for Grades1-2. n.l.: Parker Publishing, 1992.; Paul Revere’s Ride www.theholidayzone.com/fourth/julygames.html Pinatas.com www.pinatas.com/Fourth_Party_Games_s/134.htm Theme Runs www.pecentral.org/lessonideas/ViewLesson.asp?ID=5765 Trivia Questions about the Presidents www.leaderu.com/touching/TriviaQuestions.html Wilmes, Liz, and Dick. Parachute Play. Elgin, IL: Building Blocks, 2000 Wnek, Barbara. Holiday Games and Activities. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics, 1992

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Keep Kids Busy, Learning This Summer learn a lot about etiquette and social skills just being along for the ride during "grown-up" activities. Attend free outdoor movies, explore museums, visit relatives or play group games. Also set aside crafting afternoons to paint, play with modeling clay or make special projects, such as Stamped Alphabet Magnets. Not only will everyone have the fun of making them, they can be used on the refrigerator all summer to keep kids spelling or simply share special messages. For more craft ideas, visit www.joann.com. During the school year, kids focus on the fundamentals of reading, writing and arithmetic. Make summer a time to explore their interests. Plan trips and activities that keep them learning and enjoying their favorite topics. ■ Learning is as close as your computer. Both YouTube and Ted Talks feature short videos that educate and inspire. ■ When visiting the library for books this summer, pick up a few DVDs covering your child's favorite subject. ■ Arrange a mini-internship. If one of your kids loves animals, ask a veterinarian if your child could observe at the office for an afternoon. ■ Explore the great outdoors at summer camp. Instead of sending your kids away, look for local day camp options focusing on nature, sports or other activities. ■ Volunteer opportunities abound. Look for charity work tailored to your child's interest to combine learning with helping others. ■ Connect with clubs in your community, such as Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and 4-H. Each group encourages learning, outdoor activities and friendship. The most important part of summer should be family so use those extra days of freedom to spend more time together. Involve your child in the daily routine. A trip to the grocery store is a great place to see math, reading, problem solving, and decision making in action. They'll

10 | The FC July/August 2013

Stamped Alphabet Magnets No experience necessary Crafting Time: Less than 1 hour Supplies and Tools: Hero Arts Happy Upper Case Alphabet ¾ -inch ProMag round magnets Mod Podge sparkle glue & sealer ¾ -inch circle punch Black ink pad 4 sheets of colored cardstock Paintbrush

Stamp the 26 letters of the alphabet on a variety of colored cardstock, using black ink. Punch out each letter with a 3/4-inch circle punch.

2. 3. Apply 4.

a thin layer of Mod Podge sparkle glue &

sealer to each magnet to glue the letters in place. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge sparkle glue & sealer over the top of the alphabet letter. Allow to dry.

Source: Jo-Ann Craft and Fabric Stores | Family Features)

Potato salad is the perfect dish for a picnic or potluck more easily absorb the delicious dressing. These decadent dishes are best eaten the day after they're made to give the flavors time to meld. When you're ready to serve your potato salad, keep it cold by placing your serving dish in a larger bowl filled with ice.

Potato Picnic Salad

No picnic or potluck is complete without potato salad. Whether it's served warm, cold, creamy, cheesy or with a splash of vinegar, the dish is a true American cookout classic.

Family meals are always better with delicious, flavorful potatoes. Always look for the "Grown in Idaho" seal to be sure you're buying genuine Idaho potatoes. For more recipes for salads and other potato dishes, visit www.IdahoPotato.com.

Potato Picnic Salad

¼ ¼ 2

cup minced celery, about 1 stalk cup pitted black olives tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For salad dressing, combine vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper and garlic in a large salad bowl. Whisk in olive oil and set aside. For the salad, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in large saucepan. Cook unpeeled potatoes in water for about 15 minutes until just fork tender. Drain potatoes and cool immediately under cold running water. While potatoes are cooling, cut green beans into 1-inch pieces; halve cherry tomatoes and quarter eggs. Combine beans, tomatoes and eggs with cooked corn and celery in bowl with the salad dressing. Peel cooled potatoes, then cut into 2-inch pieces and toss with the dressing.

Yield: 6 to 7 servings | For the Salad Dressing

Potato salads are easy to make and even easier to pack full of flavor. Craft your own potato salad by cutting a delicious, Idaho® potato into cubes with the skins still on. Boil in water for about 8 to 15 minutes, then check for doneness by piercing a cube with a fork or skewer. If the fork goes through the potato with little resistance, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add your favorite dressing and ingredients while the potatoes are still warm. Warm potatoes

1/3

1 ¼ ¼ 1 2/3

cup red wine vinegar

Sprinkle salad with olives and chopped parsley just before serving.

teaspoon Dijon mustard teaspoon salt teaspoon pepper clove of garlic, chopped cup olive oil

For the Salad 3 pounds Idaho potatoes, about 7 medium ½ pound cooked green beans 12 cherry tomatoes 2 hard boiled eggs, peeled 1 cup cooked corn kernels

Old Fashioned Hot German Potato Salad Yield: 6 servings

4 2 1 ½ ½ 2 2

medium Idaho potatoes bacon strips diced Spanish onion cup diced celery teaspoon salt tablespoons sugar tablespoons cornstarch

Next page…. The FC July/August 2013 | 11

1/3

cup cider vinegar

cup water

Boil potatoes in skins and peel while hot. Slice potatoes thinly. In large skillet, fry bacon until crisp and remove from skillet. In bacon drippings, brown onion and celery. Stir in salt, sugar and cornstarch. Add vinegar and water. Stir in sliced potatoes; as sauce thickens while adding potatoes, more water may be needed. Transfer to serving dish and serve hot.

Add green beans to pot with potatoes and cook another 4 minutes; drain potatoes and beans and set aside. (Vegetables should be firm.) In same pot, heat olive oil over high heat and cook chicken, stirring 6 to 8 minutes or until meat is completely cooked through. Remove from heat; stir in pesto sauce, then gently stir in potatoes and green beans, taking care not to break up vegetables. Serve salad warm or at room temperature on a bed of salad greens, if desired.

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

bowl along with the remaining ingredients and thoroughly combine. Add some of reserved bacon fat if desired. Chill at least 2 hours before serving. Adjust seasoning prior to serving. Old Fashioned Hot German Potato Salad

Potato and Pesto Chicken Salad

Note: Any condiments or toppings typically added to a loaded baked potato may be used for this recipe.

Yield: 8 servings

pounds Idaho potatoes, well scrubbed (peeled, if desired) 1 pound fresh green beans, washed and trimmed 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes ¾ cup prepared pesto sauce 3 to 6 cups mixed salad greens (optional)

Over high heat, in a large, heavy pot with tight-fitting cover, bring half a pot of water to boil. Meanwhile, cut potatoes in half lengthwise, then cut crosswise in 1/2-inch slices. Add potatoes to boiling water, cover and return to boiling; cook 3 minutes.

12 | The FC July/August 2013

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Source: The Idaho Potato Commission | Family Features

Yield: 2 quarts

4 1

pounds Idaho potatoes, peeled pound bacon, crisply cooked, and chopped into ½-inch pieces (fat reserved, if desired) 4 ounces unsalted butter, softened ½ cup chopped green onions 2 cups grated or shredded cheddar cheese 1 ½ cups sour cream (regular or low-fat) 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 teaspoon salt

Cook whole potatoes in boiling, unsalted water until tender. Refrigerate until chilled, then chop into 1-inch pieces. Transfer potatoes to a large

Help Us Open a Soup Kitchen!

HisWorkMinistries.org

iring up the grill is an American tradition. The farm families who produce the food so many people enjoy at backyard cookouts want to share some of their favorite grilling recipes, as well as an appreciation for how food gets from the farm to the table. Farmers like Amanda Folkens, from Iowa, Danell Kalcevic, from Colorado, and Nicole Small, from Kansas, have joined with more than 70 other farmer volunteers across the country in the CommonGround program as a way to talk with home cooks about how food is grown and raised.

Above: Beef Rack of Ribs

"On our farm, animal care is top priority, as it is for thousands of other family farms in the U.S." said Amanda. "By keeping our animals indoors, we make sure they are protected from predators, disease and bad weather." To learn more about family farms and facts about your food, visit www.FindOurCommonGround.com.

Above: Grilled Hawaiian Ham Sandwich

Right: Country Barbecue Potatoes

Here are some of Amanda, Danell and Nicole's favorite grilling recipes. Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures ● 145°F Beef, pork, veal and lamb (roasts, steaks and chops) ● 160°F Ground meat ● 165°F Poultry (whole, parts or ground)

The FC July/August 2013 | 13

Things to Know Before You Shop the Meat Case ● There's no need to pay extra for poultry or pork that's labeled hormone-free. USDA prohibits farmers from using hormones to raise chicken and pigs. ● Nearly all beef cattle, whether raised organically or conventionally, spend the majority of their lives on pastures eating grass. ● Purchasing organic, grass-fed and free-range meats does not make them safer to consume. These labels refer to how the animals are raised, but all meat and poultry can contain bacteria that could cause illness. ● Most cases of foodborne illness can be prevented with proper processing, handling and cooking of food to destroy bacteria.

Place ham slices on sheet of lightly Country Barbecue Potatoes By Nicole Small | Serves: 4 to 6 greased foil, then place onto grill. On separate sheet of greased foil, lay 2 pounds small red potatoes pineapple slices out, uncovered. 2 Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until brown 1 3 caramelization appears around edges of ½ ham and pineapple. ¼ Remove ham and pineapple from heat ¼

TB butter, melted tsp honey tsps seasoned salt tsp salt tsp garlic powder tsp pepper

and assemble onto toasted sourdough bread. Preheat oven to 450°F.

Beef Rack of Ribs By Danell Kalcevic | Serves: 4 to 6

Salt (to taste) 1 TB black pepper (to taste) 1 TB seasoned garlic salt (to taste) Cayenne pepper (optional) 1 to 2 racks of beef ribs (number of racks based on number of people) 1 TB yellow mustard 1/3 C brown sugar

Coat 9 x 13 baking pan with nonstick spray. Cut potatoes into small to mediumsized pieces and put in pan. Melt butter and honey, and then drizzle over potatoes. Sprinkle with seasoned salt, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Toss well to coat.

One bottle of favorite barbeque sauce

Grilled Hawaiian Ham Sandwich

Bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, The night before serving, prepare rub or until potatoes are tender and golden for beef ribs (salt, pepper, seasoned brown. Stir potatoes at least once. 1 TB brown sugar garlic salt and optional cayenne pep½ TB seasoning pepper per). Sprinkle both sides of ribs and Source: United Soybean Board | Family Features 1 to 2 ¼-inch thick ham slices (about the then rub vigorously. Wrap in plastic same thickness as the bread) wrap and refrigerate overnight. Cooking spray By Amanda Folkens | Serves: 1

Pineapple slices (can be fresh or In the morning, place on medium temcanned) perature grill and spread yellow musslices sourdough bread

Help Us Open a Soup Kitchen!

tard and brown sugar on each side of the ribs. Grill for 5 to 8 minutes until each Preheat grill for high heat. Mix brown sugar with pepper to create side is slightly browned and caramelized. a rub mixture. Using your hands, massage the rub onto both sides of the slices of ham. Ham slices should be completely covered (front and back) with brown sugar mix.

14 | The FC July/August 2013

Remove ribs from grill and slice with sharp knife. Place individual ribs in a crock pot on low. Add one bottle of your favorite barbeque sauce. Let simmer 6 to 8 hours.

HisWorkMinistries.org

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Nutrition Tips for Busy Lifestyles simple and effective tips to maintain proper nutrition even when time is tight. Eat nutrient-filled meals. Set aside five minutes to pack a healthy lunch before you head to work each day. Prepare meals such as a salad with grilled chicken or a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread - healthy options that provide a combination of protein and fiber to give you sustained energy throughout the day. "It's vital that we find ways to get the hile it's important to main- nutrients our bodies need and eating tain a regular health and well-balanced meals can do just that," wellness regimen, busy says Grotto. schedules and last minute commitments can sometimes send us off track. Many Take your vitamins. In addition to propAmericans may try to maintain a balanced er food choices, quality dietary supplediet but continue to fall short on valuable ments can be helpful to fill nutrient key nutrients necessary for a healthy gaps. As someone who believes that the body. vitamin experience can be enjoyable, Grotto has partnered with Nature In fact, according to data from the Nation- Made® in support of their VitaMelts™ al Health and Nutrition Examination Sur- line. "Nature Made VitaMelts come in vey (NHANES), conducted by the great flavors like juicy orange and melt Centers for Disease Control, the overall smoothly in your mouth without water quality of the American diet gets a failing which provides an enjoyable vitamin grade. According to the Healthy Eating experience," says Grotto. "Plus they Index, adults (19+ years) score just 50 out come in a handy, portable flip-top pack of 100 on the quality of their diets. which can fit perfectly in your gym bag, or work bag, an added convenience While hectic lifestyles may play a role in factor on days you may not be eating as this failing grade, registered dietitian and properly as you should." best-selling author, Dave Grotto has a few

Stay active and enjoy the sunshine. Even if it is minimal, find time to move each day while you're at work; take the stairs instead of the elevator or go for a ten minute walk around the block. An added benefit of being outdoors, even for a short amount of time, is the exposure to sunlight, which helps skin produce vitamin D3. Unfortunately, many food sources do not provide nearly enough vitamin D to meet dietary recommendations. Grotto recommends a vitamin supplement such as Nature Made VitaMelts Vitamin D3 in a creamy vanilla flavor. Don't forget to take time for yourself. Rest and relaxation can help to rejuvenate your mind, and is an important part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Not only does Grotto recommend getting six to eight hours of sleep a night, he also suggests keeping to the same bedtime each night. Maintaining such a simple routine can really do the body good. To learn more about Nature Made VitaMelts visit www.naturemade.com and for more nutrition tips from Grotto visit www.davegrotto.com.

Source: Nature Made | Family Features

The FC July/August 2013 | 15

tock up on a superfood that's a no-brainer: Wild Blueberries have superior antioxidant capacity compared with other fruits and veggies. Best of all, these little blue powerhouses from Maine and Canada are also incredibly convenient, thanks to their year-round availability in your grocer's frozen fruit section. They're just as healthy as fresh and may retain their nutritional value longer.

! ideo Online

View the V

Here are two quick tips to help you pack a powerful nutritious punch into your diet: 1. Make sure they say wild - Check the bag to ensure you're getting authentic, frozen-fresh Wild Blueberries. If the word "Wild" isn't on the front of the package, scan the list of ingredients on the back. 2. Check the size - Be sure to select the little wild ones. When in doubt, feel the berries in the bag if they're "pea-sized," you've got the wild ones. With twice the antioxidant capacity of larger, cultivated blueberries, Wild Blueberries freeze perfectly, retaining their superior quality, color and sweet, tangy flavor.

Spicy Tortilla with Wild Blueberries

including their potential to forestall cognitive aging, reverse short-term memory loss, improve motor skills and protect against cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

Quinoa Salad with Wild Blueberries

For more delicious recipes that add a daily dose of blue to your diet, visit www.wildblueberries.com.

Prep time: 30 minutes plus thawing and cooling time | Serves 2

11/3 cups fresh or frozen Wild

Did You Know? Scientists and health researchers are studying Wild Blueberries to discover more about their anti-aging promise, 16 | The FC July/August 2013

2 ½

Blueberries tablespoons raspberry vinegar (or red wine vinegar) teaspoon coarsely ground pink peppercorns

½ ¼ 1 3 1

cup quinoa teaspoon salt medium zucchini ounces Havarti cheese cup 2% milk fat cottage cheese Fresh mint

Mix Wild Blueberries with vinegar and pink pepper; set mixture aside. Cook quinoa as instructed in salt water. Let cool. Wash zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, and thinly slice into half-moons. Cut Havarti into cubes; set aside. Mix cooked quinoa with zucchini, Havarti and cottage cheese. Gently stir in Wild Blueberries and

mint leaves. Serve with baguette if desired.

Wild Blueberry and Elderflower Mint Soda Prep time: 10 minutes | Serves 4

1 C frozen Wild Blueberries 2 limes, squeezed 4 ounces Wild Blueberry juice 2 ounces elderflower syrup 2 ½ C club soda Fresh mint

Make a tray of Wild Blueberry Ice Cubes (optional). Place about 1 teaspoon of berries per cube in ice cube tray. Reserve 4 tablespoons of berries for the drink. Squeeze lime and carefully mix juice with Wild Blueberries, Wild Blueberry juice and elderflower syrup. Pour the mixture evenly among four glasses, add club soda, stir and add washed mint leaves and Wild Blueberry ice cubes.

Spicy Tortilla with Wild Blueberries Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 12 minutes | Serves 4

1 4 2 1

TB canola oil, divided small flour tortillas apples, cored and thinly sliced small red chili pepper, seeded and chopped 4 tsp packed brown sugar Salt to taste 1¼ C Wild Blueberries 2 ounces goat cheese Fresh mint

In large nonstick skillet, heat half the oil over medium high heat. Fry each tortilla on both sides until golden. Set aside. Return skillet to medium heat and add remaining oil. Cook apples and pepper for about 4 minutes or until beginning to soften. Add sugar and salt and stir to combine. Add Wild Blueberries and stir until cooked through. Divide mixture among tortillas and sprinkle with goat cheese. Garnish with mint before serving.

Quinoa Salad with Wild Blueberries

Old-Fashioned Wild Blueberry Muffins Prep time: 15 to 20 minutes | Bake time: 18 minutes | Yield: 36 muffins

4 ½ C all-purpose flour 3 TB baking powder ½ tsp salt ¾ C brown sugar ¾ C granulated sugar 2 ¼ C low-fat buttermilk 1 ½ C (12 ounces) egg substitute ½ C canola oil 6 C Wild Blueberries 3 TB granulated sugar 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

In bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt; reserve. In separate bowl, whisk together sugars, buttermilk, egg substitute and oil. Add to flour mixture and mix just to blend. Fold in Wild Blueberries. Combine sugar and cinnamon. Scoop 1/4 cup batter into each lined or greased 1/3-cup muffin tin and sprinkle each muffin with sugar/cinnamon mixture. Bake in 400°F conventional oven or 375°F convection oven 18 to 22 minutes or until firm to the touch. Serve warm.

Old-Fashioned Wild Blueberry Muffins

Wild Blueberry and Elderflower Mint Soda

Source: Wild Blueberry Association | Family Features

The FC July/August 2013 | 17

Six Easy Tips to Get Healthy and In Shape for Summer

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

this easy recipe: Combine 1 cup plain, low-fat Greek yogurt with 1/4 cup almonds, 1 cup strawberries and 1/2 cup blueberries or another favorite fruit.

wimsuit season is here so it's time to tone up, slim down and get ready for summer. Building lean muscle, burning fat and eating right is easier when you know what steps to take. Incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine can provide long-term results, according to two experts from Curves, Nadia Rodman, director of nutrition, and Katie Mitchell, director of exercise. Here are six tips to get you started on the path to better health:

Tip #1 Make Over Your Breakfast: A higher protein breakfast turns up your satiety signal and helps you fight cravings throughout the day. Consider a parfait made with fresh fruit and low-fat Greek yogurt that can add as much as 30 grams of protein to your day. Try 18 | The FC July/August 2013

Tip #2 Add Some Flavor to Your Water: Try flavoring your water naturally with fresh fruit and herbs, such as berries, orange slices, mint and lemon or lime slices. Simply fill a large pitcher with water or carbonated water, fruit, and/or herbs of your choice. Store in the refrigerator for about 3 hours. Pour water over ice and enjoy. Tip #3 Keep Healthy Snacks Handy: Be prepared when a snack craving hits. Snacks packed with protein help keep your energy level even so you don't hit a sugar low in the afternoon. Good options to keep handy or in a desk drawer include a handful of almonds, a piece of beef jerky or dried pumpkin seeds. Tip #4 Add Strength Training: Be sure to incorporate resistance training into your exercise program. Resistance training helps build lean muscle, which builds your strength, creating a firm and toned appearance - plus it boosts your metabolism.

Weight bearing exercise also helps build up bone density. Tip #5 Add Cardiovascular Exercise: While resistance training helps us build lean muscle, cardio activity will strengthen your heart and burn body fat. Look for a workout that includes both strength training and cardio exercise, such as Curves. Also look for activities the whole family can enjoy, such as charitable walks or runs in your community. Tip #6 Have a Coach: It helps to have a coach or workout buddy for accountability and motivation. It's always more fun to work out with a partner and the added support will help keep you on track. Look for a gym or club that offers a coach that is hands-on and will meet with you on a regular basis. To learn more about Curves Fitness and Curves Complete, visit www.curves.com.

Source: Curves | Family Features

“As an athlete and a mom, there's nothing I enjoy more than getting outside to shoot hoops or run around with my kids” –Lisa Leslie

Move Your Workout and Your Family Outdoors Lisa Leslie, basketball all-star

Playing together outdoors is the perfect way for families to bond while staying active and fit, but when seasonal allergies come into play they can keep many families on the sidelines. Allegra is setting out this season to show people there's no reason to suffer if you have the right relief, and has teamed up with basketball star Lisa Leslie to share fun, affordable workout tips that help families enjoy the outdoors even during allergy season. "As an athlete and a mom, there's nothing I enjoy more than getting outside to shoot hoops or run around with my kids, but when our allergy symptoms act up it can keep my whole family indoors," says Leslie. "I am thrilled to show families that with the help of Allegra their seasonal allergies

don't have to stop them from being outdoors and having fun." Lisa shares how to utilize simple household items and a little imagination to transform any backyard or outdoor space in to a family fitness center: Scavenger Hike: Turn a family hike into a scavenger hunt; come up with a fun list of challenges like climbing over a log, finding a pinecone, skipping down an entire trail or racing to the birch tree and back. Driveway Drills: Using chalk and cardboard boxes you can create your own basketball court on the driveway. Have the kids draw free throw lines and see who can bounce or throw the ball into the cardboard box "hoop."

Time for Fun: Use your kitchen timer or a stopwatch to time kids in sprints, relays and jumping jack sessions; record times on a dry erase board to help kids track their personal best times. As you venture out into the great outdoors to enjoy family fitness, make sure you're prepared to recognize the signs of seasonal allergies, which may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and itchy nose or throat. With proper management and education, allergy symptoms can be relieved. The Allegra family of allergy products offers effective, long-lasting (one dose lasts at least 12 hours), nondrowsy relief for the whole family. To learn more about seasonal allergies, visit www.allegra.com. Source: Allegra | Family Features

The FC July/August 2013 | 19

Photo Courtesy of Getty Images

Warm Weather Shape Up Tips Those hot summer months are almost here and it's time to take your workout to the next level to get in shape. Whether you are looking to shed a few pounds that came with the cold weather, training for a race, or beginning team workouts, there is no time like the present to get moving. While some people find it easy to make a workout part of their daily routine, many struggle with creating a fitness plan and sticking to it. Below are a few tips to help you create and maintain a diverse and healthy schedule this month and beyond: ● Bring A Buddy: Exercise doesn't need to seem like a chore. Join a running group or grab a friend and head to the gym - accountability will make you less likely to skip a workout. ● Track Your Trips: Keep a calendar and mark each trip you make to the gym, go for a run, or participate in a fitness activity. Tracking your progress and routines will 20 | The FC July/August 2013

allow you to make adjustments and improvements to your fitness plan. ● Start Small: Don't bite off more than you can chew. Set short-term realistic goals that are attainable. Lengthening your running distance each week, upping the number of reps you do on your favorite machine or increasing the weights you lift (by no more than 10 percent each week) will create a sense of accomplishment. Even when you feel like you do not have enough energy for a full workout, go outside for a walk, hop on the treadmill for 15 minutes or simply make it a point to take the stairs when possible every little step counts! ● Refuel Your Body and Reward Your Taste Buds: It is crucial to refuel your body post-workout with a mix of carbohydrates and high quality protein. One such protein-rich choice is Rockin' Refuel Intense Recovery, which is 100 percent real milk with 20

grams of protein and features a 2:1 carb to protein ratio which has been proven to maximize muscle recovery. Your muscles will feel the difference and your taste buds will appreciate the great taste of real milk! ● Switch-Up Your Schedule: Do not get stuck doing the same routine each time you are heading to the gym. Try taking a class such as CrossFit, Boxing or Boot camp; join a summer sports league or sign-up for your first triathlon. Trying out different types of workouts will make you feel refreshed and allow you to exercise different muscles. Remembering these tips can help you maximize your workouts and make them more enjoyable. Check out or visit RockinRefuel.com Facebook.com/RockinRefuel for more summer shape up tips. Source: Rockin' Refuel | Family Features

u s

i ss

n o i s

he Holy Spirit is doing a great work across the globe and we here at His Work Christian Ministries (publisher of The Fit Christian Magazine) are excited to be a part of it by establishing our International Quickening Bible College (I.Q.B.C.). God himself has named our Bible College â&#x20AC;&#x153;International Quickeningâ&#x20AC;? and we believe it is a prophetic name that will be realized. We are in the end times and we need to build the Church of Christ and prepare the Bride of Christ, starting with ourselves. One mandate of His Work Christian Ministries is to train leaders, those called and ordained by God, into the Five-Fold Apostolic ministry. Are you one of them? Thanks to the Amazon Kindle, our bible college is mobile in format.

Through the Internet, Kindles, and local translation, and distribution, the courses can be taken nearly anywhere in the world. This allows laymen to be trained without leaving their present environment. Students study within the context of their own culture, allowing their daily activities to remain stable while becoming a laboratory for application of what they are learning. The bible college uses the distance factor as a positive element in developing learning independence. The goal of education is not to make students dependent upon teachers, but independent of them. I.Q.B.C. does not spend millions of dollars on brick and mortar to build evangelical training centers. The training can be offered in existing facilities, whether a home, church building, or school. Jesus did not construct

F o

buildings, yet He took men from vision to reality. It is the content, not the physical facility, that establishes a training center as an effective spiritual force for God. I.Q.B.C. is a decentralized training program. This means that minimum control is exercised by our headquarters here in the United States. We provide curriculum and Kindles, translation, and organizing training schools, training/teaching, and even student graduation and ordination ceremonies (as requested and God willing), but we do not control the details of operation of local schools. Decentralization enables rapid growth and provides the flexibility necessary

The FC July/August 2013 | 21

for a cross-cultural program of this nature. Although the curriculum is designed to enable a local pastor or Christian leader to conduct the training sessions, the headquarters of I.Q.B.C. will provide guest teachers/ministers upon request and according to the availability of the ministerial staff. As funds are available, I.Q.B.C. will send a ministry team to assist in establishing the bible college if so requested. For further information on guest teachers or assistance in establishing a bible college in your area, contact the international headquarters in Key West, Florida USA. I.Q.B.C. USA www.hisworkministries.org/ internationalquickening.html

He received his Diploma in GhanaLocal Churches of Ghana in 2006 and his doctorate in 2008 by Global Christian Alliances in Hyderabad. Rev. Daniel is married to his wife Sujatha who is an active partner in their work in spreading the Gospel. They have four children and reside in Ongole S. India. At this time we are diligently working towards getting all of our Bible college materials and curriculum translated, typed and prepared for the Kindle format in order to begin classes in September of this year. Our ministry team is planning to fly to India to bless the commencement of our Bible college as well as train Rev. Daniel and his teachers on how to best use the Kindles and materials for their school.

Rev. Dr. Daniel R. Kodavatikant with his beautiful wife Sujatha. Rev. Daniel is the International Director of International Quickening Bible College in Ongole, Andhra Pradesh, India.

help! Please consider donating to our ministry to spread the Gospel and train new ministers in India and the United States. For those interested in starting an I.Q.B.C. in India, please contact Rev. Dr. Daniel R. Kodavatikant

I.Q.B.C. in INDIA! God has opened the doors for us to plant a Bible college in India! We are excited about what the Lord is doing with our ministry and have welcomed a brother, a friend and partner in our Kingdom building efforts in India. Rev. Dr. Daniel R. Kodavatikant is the International Director of our International Quickening Bible College of India (I.Q.B.C.I.). Rev. Kodavatikant started ministry in 1989 and independently constructed churches, established Sunday schools and an orphanage in Andhra Pradesh. 22 | The FC July/August 2013

The college costs are only $150.00 per student, and for those unable to pay, we plan to establish a scholarship program. At this time, they already have 20 students ready to attend and that is without advertising. Rev. Daniel expects to have 50 students ready to begin classes in September.

I.Q.B.C.I. India www.hisworkministries.org/ internationalquickening_india.html

In order for them all to attend and for our team to fly to India to bring the Kindles fully loaded with curriculum and Bibles in both English and their own language Telugu, we need your

All materials and Kindles are provided free to those who cannot pay. Please consider donating to this ministry to enable us to disciple as many as we can.

Homeless, for a Night By Michael Blunk Th.D.

he plan seemed simple enough; as a candidate for employment with a Christian mission, the ministryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s director suggested that I pose as a homeless person by passing the night at their emergency shelter on East Jefferson Street. Unknown by the staff workers, I would observe first-hand the treatment provided to homeless men, women and families seeking refuge from the streets and then report my findings to him. What I did not know, though I strongly suspect he already knew, is that I would discover far more about myself than of their operations in downtown Louisville. At the risk of sounding irreverent, business was good that Saturday evening; people crowded every room and hallway and I wondered if there would be space for me. Almost immediately, a staff worker asked how he might be of help. After explaining my need for a safe place to spend the night, I was handed over to the caseworker on duty. I immediately liked Wilson. Maybe it was because he looked like a relic from the 1960s. Long hair. Bushy beard. Sandals. Open collar. He listened patiently as I explained my fictitious plight: I had traveled from Lexington to Indianapolis in hopes of employment; unfortunately, the work that had been promised me had not panned out. I had then hitched a ride as far as Louisville and was in need of

a place to stay before resuming the trip back to Lexington the following day. All totally untrue, of course, but I soothed my bristled conscious by recalling the Apostle Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s admonition to Christian believers in showing kindness to strangers as they might unknowingly be entertaining angels from Heaven. As God occasionally sends angels to earth incognito, I reasoned that my posing as a homeless wanderer was equally justifiable. And if there was a chink in my theology, I would handily shift the blame to my new boss.

I was sitting on the other side of the desk.

It is unlikely that Wilson bought my hard luck story in its entirety; a social worker with his high levels of education and experience is not easily deceived, nonetheless, he demonstrated a measure of genuine compassion and concern while bolstering the pitiful remains of my sagging dignity. What seemed to bother him was the manner in which I kept my head lowered during the interview by this time, I was beginning to feel as though I really was down and out with no place to go. I was miserable with shame and am certain that Wilson recognized this, but in no time at all, we were talking music, politics, family, cabbages and kings in the manner of a couple of old friends meeting over coffee. Never once did I detect even the faintest hint of judgment or, for that matter, the icy chill of cold philanthropy. It appeared to make no difference with Dale, that

After the initial interview, I found a seat in a dayroom on the second floor. My name was added to a long list of hopefuls waiting for a bed; if no bed became available, I would spend the night on a mat. A few men half-heartedly watched a televised college football game with notable indifference. A couple of other men sitting at a long table talked quietly among themselves; when an uninvited guest sought to join their discussion, they quickly shooed him away. Two bakery cakes waited for takers. Other men milled in and out of the dayroom; a pair of gentlemen from a local church passed out tracts and chatted with anyone willing to listen. One young man sat reading a Bible. A staff worker asked if I wanted something to eat; chicken patties and baked potatoes were being served on the first floor. I could not help being amused by a

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congenial young man playing “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” on his cell phone as he called out, “Does anyone know how many time zones there are in China?” I struck up a conversation with the Bible reader. Though in his twenties, he looked more like a high school kid. Xavier had grown up in Chicago, preferred working in construction when work was available, and frequently wrote to his mother who was serving a long prison sentence. He was headed for New Orleans. I also learned that Louisville ranked among the best cities for the homeless. “You won’t starve in Louisville,” he assured me. The young man playing “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” called out, “Does anyone know the capital of New Zealand?” It was obvious that some of the men had been there long enough to forge friendships. New arrivals like me sat alone. An assortment of men flowed in and out of the dayroom. One young man, who had been assigned a bed, complained about the heat in the dormitory; his request for a mat in the dayroom was quickly denied. Another young man appeared nearly consumed with frustration in his search for toenail clippers. From time to time, a staff member would announce the availability of a bed, but as the 10PM deadline approached, it was becoming obvious that several of us would be passing the night on a tile floor.

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“Who directed Gone with the Wind?” the young cell phone holder called out as “lights out” neared. As a dozen or so men queued up to a pushcart piled high with thin vinyl mats, another staff member distributed clean sheets, and a small crew of the men swept and mopped the dayroom floor. An older gentleman warned me against sleeping too near the open windows. It was to be a cold night. “What’s the speed of light?” I shared the answer. He nodded in approval, “You’re the man!”

ing tile floor, but how many of these men, I wondered, had spent long, cold rainy nights in darkened alleys or beneath concrete viaducts? For the true veterans of homelessness, clean sheets and vinyl mats were luxuries. The young man with the cell phone beamed proudly. “I beat the game! I won a million dollars!” After considering the futility of this imaginary fortune for a moment or so, he laughed saying, “But I would settle for ten real dollars!”

The vinyl sleeping mats were strategically placed in such a way that allowed for narrow walkways to the door. From what I could see, it appeared as though the dayroom was full to capacity, though a pair of stragglers joined our tight ranks about an hour after lights out.

As a light sleeper, and one who is unaccustomed to bedding down with a dozen strangers, the night wore on and on for me. It was the incessant snoring that mostly kept me awake. No hard floor would rob these men of their sleep, but a lifetime of soft living had made me soft; I am uncertain if I slept even an hour.

A few men dozed off almost immediately while others respectfully conversed in hushed voices. I noted that many of the men removed neither shoes nor street clothing as they crawled onto their mats. I assumed these men feared the risk of losing their shoes to thieves.

The day began early. At 5:45AM, a staff worker visited each mat with a respectful greeting. I surveyed the room; the waking men appeared lonely and vulnerable as they rubbed the sleep from their eyes. I wondered what it was like being alone and have no home.

“What was the title of Vanilla Ice’s first big hit?” Someone in the front row chimed the answer.

I found a spot on a bench outside the dayroom. In less than an hour, my father would arrive and we would soon join my mother around the kitchen table over steaming cups of gourmet coffee topped off with real cream. As I checked my watch, an older gentleman, with a rather worn expression, parked next to me. I learned that he had arrived at the shelter long after the caseworker had gone off duty; as a

In spite of the older gentleman’s previous warning, I was grateful for the occasional wisps of cool night air flowing through the open windows. Still, sleep did not come easily. The thin mat provided only a marginal level of comfort against the unforgiv-

result, he passed the night sitting upright in a hard chair. Still, better a hard chair than a hard sidewalk. I watched as he wearily nodded off. The shelter had given him protection from the cold night air. Breakfast would soon be served. In here, he would find safety. He would be cared for. From that experience, I learned something about the operations of a homeless shelter, but I learned much more about myself. And what I learned about myself did not please me.

bank card for one of those state issued facsimiles doled out to recipients of welfare benefits. I suspect the matter of killing off this sense of pride will take some time.

About the Author: Dr. Michael Blunk is a staff writer for an apologetics ministry and serves full time as a chaplain with Wayside Christian Mission. You may contact him at dr.michaelblunk@gmail.com Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com

Throughout the night, I felt the haunting stigma of shame, not that anyone at the shelter had attempted belittling me, it was my own misguided sense of pride and vain self-worth that had made me so uncomfortable. All night and the following morning, I had imagined pitying glances that were never there and whispered comments that were never spoken. In truth, I was ashamed at being numbered among the homeless. I wanted all to know I have a home of my own and a car in the driveway and a diploma on the wall and money in a bank. Come Monday, I will be at the office. See the awards on my desk? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m somebody! Yeah, I am someone all right. Someone suffering from an inflated ego! No matter how unintentional, I surely grieved the compassionate heart of our Lord Jesus Christ as I sat on that bench, staring at the floor and feeling terribly out of place, praying for anonymity and hoping not to be noticed. By the by, was the lesson in humility learned? Two nights later, I fairly bristled when a cashier misidentified my

New Beginnings Homeless Ministry in Key West is an outreach ministry of His Work Christian Ministries. We need your help in order to help our homeless brothers and sisters in Key West. www.hisworkministries.org/newbeginnings.html

His Work Christian Ministries

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How You Can Make a Difference

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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It's not uncommon for people to feel they can't really impact the larger social issues of the day; that the problems are too big for one person to make a difference. But that isn't true. You can be a part of something greater and have a positive impact on your community when you volunteer. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said that life's most persistent question is, "What are you doing for others?" In his sermon, "On Being a Good Neighbor," published in the book "Gift of Love: Sermons from 'Strength to Love' and Other Preachings," (Beacon Press 2012), King said that the Good Samaritan was good "because he made concern for others the first law of his life," and challenged his people to serve others in difficult life situations. Not only does volunteering benefit others, but it makes you feel good, both mentally and physically, according to the 2010 United Healthcare/VolunteerMatch "Do Good. Live Well." survey. Tips for Becoming a Volunteer ● Evaluate what you have to offer. Think about what skills you have 26 | The FC July/August 2013

that could be used to help others. Organization and communication skills, a green thumb, crafting or musical abilities, even being a good listener - they can all be valuable resources to local organizations. ● Find causes and issues that you care about. If your time and efforts are spent in an area of passion, rather than just obligation, you're more likely to enjoy the work and stick with it longer. ● Check out the organization. Request an interview, visit the site and talk to other volunteers. You need to make sure that the organization and the volunteer duties are a good fit for you.

Disaster preparedness Reading with children Book drives Community gardens Helping military families Tutoring

You can look for other ideas and opportunities through your local community organizations, schools, and houses of worship. You can make a difference. If you're still not sure, take some inspiration from one of Dr. King's prayers, "Lord, help me to accept my tools. However dull they are, help me to accept them. And then Lord, after I have accepted my tools, then help me to set out and do what I can do with my tools." You can find more inspiration from Dr. King in collections of his writings at www.thekinglegacy.org. Source: Beacon Press | Family Features

Ways You Can Serve There a several national days of service - Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service (www.mlkday.gov), 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance (www.911day.org), and Global Youth Service Day (www.gysd.org). But you don't have to wait for a special day. Here are some ideas to get you started: ● Local food banks ● Clothing drives

Cancer of the Christian Soul By Michaelle Bragassa-Holman

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” Ephesians 4:29. goes on to say that a perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends (Proverbs 16:28).

A favorite pastime in this world is gossiping. What is gossip? It's idle talk, or spreading rumors, about the personal or private affairs of others. It is a widespread epidemic that we often take part in [sometimes unknowingly]. The sad reality is that it often results in hurting others; destroying relationships and creating conflict in the lives of our victims. A good way to judge if you are partaking in gossip, is to discern that if you aren't part of the problem or the solution, it’s gossip. What that means is, if you are not in the equation, then you need to keep your thoughts and feelings about it to yourself. The Bible teaches us about this destructive behavior. In Proverbs 11, it says that a man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret. It

It doesn't take much to start a rumor, or to carry a tale about a friend or relative. Many people don't realize the damage that such a senseless act can do. Friendships and marriages have been ruined over such behavior. The offending party never realized that their behavior created trouble, caused undue anger, and resulted in heartbreak among friends. A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts (Proverbs 18:7-8). In the course of our lives, we find people who thrive on gossip. It's in our churches, our homes, our schools, as well as many other facets of our lives. The people who carry the gossip often deny any allegations of wrong doing by trying to rationalize with excuses or blame it on the victims. Just like cancer kills our bodies, gossip kills our testimony. We are to be

Christ-like in our behavior. Christ never took part in gossip, and he never approves of us doing so regardless of our excuses. Instead of us taking pokers to our families, our neighbors, our friends, and our churches, we should strive to build each other. It is vital that we refrain from gossip, it is a sin. In order to avoid gossip, spend your time creating helpful and encouraging advice for others. Another great way to prevent gossip is to let it stop with you. Remember, gossip is a two way street, it's vital to make sure you're the dead end. May God bless and keep us all in His embrace. About the Author: Our lives our made up of so much in this world today that we often forget to take the time to do the things we love. My entire life has been filled with both the love I have for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and writing. http://bragassamichaelleblog.wordpress.com Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com

Editor’s Note: I have been very busy with the planting of our new Bible College in India (see story in this issue), so have had to skip my column “Scripture & Reflection” this issue. Thank you for understanding ~Angela

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The mission of His Work Christian Ministries is to provide food, clothing and shelter for those in need, to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to build the Church and prepare the Bride of Christ.

"We are called to disciple nations, feed the hungry, reach the homeless, care for widows and orphans, visit prisoners, and reach out to people in love."

What We Do:

●Publish The Fit Christian Magazine! ●New Beginnings Homeless Ministry ●International Quickening (I.Q.) Bible College ●Orphan to Orphan program ●Partner with other International Outreach Ministries

We are BLESSED to be a BLESSING! Thank you for blessing our ministry so we can bless others.