The Fit Christian Magazine Jul/Aug 2012 by His Work Christian Ministries

The

FC Fit Christian

A Christian Health & Fitness Magazine

Serious Family Fun!

Spotlight: Share Your Breakfast

Alisa Keeton

Fighting Child Hunger by Sharing the Power of Breakfast

New Department: Missions Focus

This Issue’s Focus: Mexico and Pakistan

July/Aug 2012

Going Organic When You Don’t Have a Lot of Green

PUBLISHER His Work Christian Ministries www.hisworkministries.org EDITOR Angela J. Willard Perez editor@fitchristian.com COLUMNISTS Chris Chapan Kids4Christ David Luther Walking Through the Word With David diluther@cox.net Theresa Rowe Shaped by Faith www.shapedbyfaith.com Angela J. Willard Perez Scripture & Reflection editor@fitchristian.com

CONTRIBUTORS Family Features Chris Hambrecht (Em Doodles) Reverend Fun Allison Martin FREE ADVERTISING! For more info on advertising www.fitchristian.com/advertise.html The Fit Christian Magazine www.fitchristian.com A publication of His Work Christian Ministries (www.hisworkministries.org) To donate to this magazine and ministry, visit www.hisworkministries.org /donate.html or click here

Thank you for your support!

i | The FC July/August 2012

© Copyright 2003-2012 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. Any views listed in articles or advertisements are not necessarily the views of The Fit Christian Magazine or His Work Christian Ministries. The Fit Christian Magazine or His Work Christian Ministries will not be held responsible for any claims against writers, or advertisers in the magazine or on the Web site. Nothing in the magazine is meant to replace the advice of a health professional. Please contact your health professional before starting any exercise or nutrition program. To subscribe to the online magazine for free, visit www.fitchristian.com/subscribe.html Print & PDF editions are available at www.fitchristian.magcloud.com

Featured Videos: Our video feeds are updated regularly to bring you how-to and step-by-step videos on cooking, living a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and more. Be sure to check our site weekly for the newest videos.

http://www.fitchristian.com/videos.html

Be sure to check out the “Stairs” video of Yolanda Rosato of Victory Fitness in Canada.

Web Feeds: We have new articles on Food, Home & Lifestyle and Lawn & Garden updated weekly each Monday morning. Recipe Search: Search from thousands of recipes and find that perfect recipe for your next family meal. New! U New Department: Missions Focus! U All past iPad issues are now FREE! Get yours today! Current issue still only 99 cents! Coming Soon: U We are developing an App so you can take The FC Mag with you on your mobile device! Is this your talent? We need your help! U We are still working on the re-design of our Website, including getting all past articles back online, to increase your viewing and reading experience.

Features

1 Going Organic… Going Organic When You Don’t Have a lot of Green We all know organic products are notoriously overpriced compared to their less nutritional and more chemically-laden counterparts. And Sunday coupon inserts don’t exactly encourage the purchase of healthy brands like Kashi or Food For Life (Ezekiel 4:9) either. However, there are ways to find savings for the organic brands you prefer, without spending hours searching the Internet or driving all over town….

5 Share Your Breakfast Fighting Child Hunger by Sharing the Power of Breakfast! Studies show that breakfast can help kids boost their academic performance–improving behavior, reducing absences and tardiness and increasing focus and physical performance according to research published in the American Dietetic Association Journal (2005). Yet, the United States Department of Agriculture states that the alarming reality is that one in five children live in homes where food is not always available, making breakfast hard to come by….

2 Serious Family Fun! In today's hurry-up world, many families are looking for ways to slow down a little and spend some quality time together, just having fun. The good news is that it doesn't have to cost a lot of money, and you don't have to go very far to have a great time.…

20 Spotlight: Alisa Keeton Alisa Keeton, 41, is the Founder of Revelation Wellness, a non-profit ministry dedicated to educating and inspiring people to live healthy and whole lives in Christ. Besides being the President of Revelation Wellness Foundation, which she founded, she volunteers her time with fundraising events and missions trips to Uganda, Africa for Food for the Hungry.

Only Online… VIDEO! Serve a Salad Kids Will Flip For! Fruit and Yogurt Elbow Salad

Feeling Good by Doing Good: Volunteering benefits everyone involved Care About Your Care: Nine Things You Can Do to Get Better Health Care Almonds Naturally Make Gluten-Free Lifestyle More Delicious: Gluten-Free Almond Alfajores Like Her, Like Me: Modeling Healthy Behaviors Tasty Tips for Healthier Eating: "D.I.T." Do-it-Themselves Family Style Tacos Get Summer-Ready with Expert Style Tips

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Departments

6 Kids4Christ July 4th Fun! | Getting the Dirt on Dirt for Healthier, Happier Kids | Memory Verse | Word Search and more...

12 Food & Nutrition

Fresh and Fun Family Recipes with Rachael Ray | Great Gluten-free Grilling | Picnic Favorites | GF Cooking: Tips For a Stress Free, Gluten Free Summer! GF Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

23 Exercise the Right Way Shaped By Faith: “The Benefits of the Great Outdoors” | The Ministry of Running | Grab Life by the Handlebars with Expert Cycling Tips

27 NEW! Missions Focus Focus: Mexico, Face of My Father Children's Home "The Least of These" Focus: Pakistan, Save the Children & Women of Pakistan Ministry "The Face of Poverty"

32 Spiritual Fitness Walking Through the Word With David "Holiness Defined" Leviticus 19:19-20:27 Pastor's Pulpit Pastor Martin Richards: "Freedom In Christ" Galatians 5:1 Scripture & Reflection "Love As God Loves" Acts 10:34-35

Fitness Events You can stay up-to-date on fitness events in your area by visiting these Web sites: Bodybuilding-Fitness-Figure Upcoming Events http://www.bodybuildbid.com/upcoming.html Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, and Fitness Contests http://www.naturalbodybuildingevents.com/month.html Professional Natural Bodybuilding, Figure, and Fitness Competitions http://www.naturalbodybuildingevents.com/ProShows.htm To list your event here for free, email the information to editor@fitchristian.com

Greetings in Jesus! As this magazine has grown and evolved over the past nine years, I continue to humbly stand in awe of the mighty work that God does through The FC and in me. I’m learning that God is not a stagnant God, nor does He wish for His children to be stagnant, but rather ever-changing, ever-growing and ever-evolving, so that we can someday reflect His image, beauty, love, and compassion in ways in which we would not otherwise be able to do. Change is good. This issue lets go of some old and brings in some new. New vision, new writers and a whole new department: Missions Focus, which will highlight missions, ministries and/or missionaries across the globe. Another new thing is free advertising. This magazine has never really brought much in, as far as money goes–especially in ad sales–but when God said to offer the ads free, I was not a happy daughter of the Most High! Free?? As a new missionary and living completely on faith, this step is just one more of many leaps of faith that He has had me taking for the past year. And I have not fallen, nor will I. Because when God says “Go!” He equips us to do so. Why free advertising for ministries, missions and missionaries? Because the time is short and I am “redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16); and I am in the Kingdom-building business! I hope you will join me in building the Kingdom for His glory. Happy Reading! Remember our wonderful columnist Nancy Napolitano of “Nancy’s New Beginnings”? I’m sure you do. She has been a delight and an encouragement to all with her boldness and honesty in sharing with us her struggles and victories in her choice to live a healthy lifestyle. Nancy has taken a break from writing while she faces yet another struggle: Cancer. In March, Nancy was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Recently, she shared with me a little more of her fight and asked that I share with you all. "I want people to know what sun damage can do," Nancy said. "I have always believed when things like this happen to you, God expects you to use it to help another avoid a similar pitfall. Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words." She adds, "In spite of it all, [I'm] managing to keep off 20 pounds! That'd be a big Yahoo! Growing stronger from the inside-out!" She would like to share this important advice: "REMEMBER to WEAR SUNSCREEN....you must reapply every two hours for it to remain effective." Thank you, Nancy, once again for sharing so honestly and boldly. Your integrity is astounding and refreshing. Nancy asks for "Prayers for healing that scar!" And many prayers you will receive, I'm sure. Nancy Post-Surgery and PreStitch Removal.

If you would like to leave a comment for Nancy, you may do so here: www.fitchristian.com/nancy.html

For more information on Squamous Cell Carcinoma, visit http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/squamous-cell-carcinoma “On the Home Front” Next Page… © The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Ministries. www.fitchristian.com

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few years ago, I was sitting in my church—Clover Pass Community Church, in Ketchikan, Alaska—and I was listening to Pastor Dave Hunter’s message. That message, I have long forgotten, but what stayed with me was what God was telling me through that message, “You need to be color blind.” My flesh rose up in defiance, “What do you mean I need to be color blind?! I don’t have a problem with black people! I have family and friends who are black!” But my spirit knew exactly what He meant. Where I grew up, in Oregon, I rarely saw blacks. I don’t even remember having any black friends. I knew we had black family members, but had never met them. I grew up being taught by society and television shows (such as one of my favorites “The Jeffersons”) that there is nothing wrong with black people or having black friends, but blacks are “over there” and we (whites) are “over here” and we do not mix the two. If only George Jefferson had been married to a white woman, maybe my growing brain would not have hung out in the shallow end of the gene pool. But unfortunately, it did. So even in the past couple years, knowing that I needed to be “color blind” I still had no idea why, other than that it is wrong. I just didn’t understand how wrong it really was, or how closed-minded I was because of it. Until recently. A few months back, I knew where God was calling me on my next missionary adventure. But this was not to be just a short term mission trip, but I was to live there, to be immersed in a new country, a new culture, a new society, where I would stick out like a sore thumb–in Ghana, West Africa. Our ministry has taken an orphanage there as one of our outreach ministries, Messiah Needy Children Orphanage. They have 32 orphans ages 2-12, and I am very excited to go there and help the orphanage and establish the ministry in Ghana—a new adventure indeed! During these past several months, I have become close friends with the pastor there who introduced me to the woman who runs the orphanage and to the children. That friendship has grown into so much more. Pastor Martin Richards, a Ghanaian, is my best friend, whom I highly respect and deeply love. But when he asked me to marry him, I freaked out! I did not want to get married! Been there, done that, and it did not end well (twice!). I have enjoyed having God as my husband, my provider, and my spiritual advisor–He has been the best husband I have ever had, and I was not willing to hand that over to a man–especially, a black man. That’s right, I still was not color blind. And God made me realize in a very real and painful way, that I was a racist. Once I realized that I was harboring that deep-rooted sin, I handed it over to God, repented of it, and began to pray daily for absolute color blindness. I also sought His will, rather than my own, on the marriage proposal. He reminded me that after my last marriage fell apart, I had given Him the right to choose any future mate. I sucked at mate selection! I had told God, “Next time, if there is a next time, you choose, and choose a man who truly sees my heart.” He chose very well. But I struggled, a lot, with His choice. Once I got over the hurdle of getting married again, I had to jump the “marrying a black man” hurdle. It was not easy, and I am ashamed to admit it. So why am I? Because I must. I know that I was not alone in that sin of racism, and sin must be revealed before we can confess it and be forgiven and redeemed. The truth surely will set us free. I am so thankful that I have been set free, not just free from that sin and all my sins, but free to marry a wonderful, loving man whom I love so dearly, free to marry a black man. :~) The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean” Acts 10:15.

In Jesus and In Health, Angela J. Willard Perez (Soon to be Angela J. Richards!)

Meet my fiancée! Read his article in the Pastor’s Pulpit on page 34

Going Organic When You Don’t Have a lot of Green by Allison Martin

e all know organic products are notoriously overpriced compared to their less nutritional and more chemicallyladen counterparts. And Sunday coupon inserts don’t exactly encourage the purchase of healthy brands like Kashi or Food For Life (Ezekiel 4:9) either. However, there are ways to find savings for the organic brands you prefer, without spending hours searching the Internet or driving all over town. Go to the Source. Brands like Back to Nature, Kashi, Cascadian Farms, and Stoneyfield Organics do offer coupons on their websites, so start there and sign up to receive special offers in your inbox. If you’re worried about being contacted too often by the company, create a “decoy” email address to receive all your coupons in one spot. The only drawback to this tactic is that most sites limit the amount of coupons you can print, but many will send you new offers each month.

Earn your keep. Websites like recyclebank.com are a great place to find coupons for organic items. Spend

a lazy Sunday afternoon learning more about creating a “green” kitchen or how to recycle cat food cans and earn points you can redeem for big discounts on natural brands like Aveeno.

uct). We go through at least one loaf a week, which could become expensive over time, but just two weeks after contacting the company, four coupons and a letter explaining that I could request new coupons each month jumped Query the company. Have an organic from the mailbox into my thrifty little product you can’t live without? If the hands. brand’s website doesn’t offer coupons, send the company a comment through Try DIY for your organic beauty their Contact Us form or email them buy. The best thing about organic beaudirectly if possible and tell them how ty products is they have very few ingremuch you love their product. Explain dients and the effects of many of their you would like to continue purchasing concoctions could easily be achieved said product for years to come, but using a few items from the kitchen you’d prefer to offset your instead. Cucumbers are great for deweekly/monthly cost of their wonder- puffing the eyes. Mix sugar and honey ful, fabulous, amazing product (flattery together for a quick exfoliator. And will get you everywhere with the adver- olive oil is the perfect lip moisturizer. tising dept.) by receiving some coupons from them. If applicable, offer to write The bottom line is your budget doesn’t a review of the product in return for a have to interfere with the creation of an discount. I tried this with Food for Life, au natural lifestyle, if you take advanmaker of, among other things, Ezekiel tage of the resources at your disposal Bread (a live grain, gluten-free prod- and your own ingenuity. †

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Photos courtesy of Getty Images

n today's hurry-up world, many Become day trippers. seums, parks and restaurants - you may families are looking for ways to Feel like getting out of town, but don't be surprised at how much there is to do. Get suggestions from your friends using slow down a little and spend some want to go far? Try a family day trip. Bing's new social search features; quality time together, just having fun. -State parks - You can go on a hike or someone you know may have recently The good news is that it doesn't have to bike ride, have a picnic and enjoy the been there and have some great ideas. cost a lot of money, and you don't have great outdoors on your own, or partici- Or you could find people who are exto go very far to have a great time. pate in events such as fishing tourna- perts on that area and can help you find ments, wildlife education, moonlight the perfect place to visit. Here are some ways your family can walks or star gazing talks. Have some homegrown fun. make the most of family time and have -Nearby cities - Play tourist in a city You don't have to go to one of the big some serious fun. that's close by, but you haven't been to theme parks in another state to have a before. Check out the local shops, mu- great time. 2 | The FC July/August 2012

-Carnivals and street fairs - Get in on some old-fashioned fun and make the most of these hometown celebrations. The kids will get a kick out of it–and you may feel like a kid again yourself. -Local museums - Art, history, science, kid-themed and quirky–there are all kinds of museums just waiting to be explored. Keep an eye out for special exhibits and family events. Many museums have free days and no- or low-cost activities and classes you can all do together. -Free movie screenings and concerts Some parks and rec departments and shopping centers have family movie and music events. Take a picnic dinner, go early and enjoy some free family fun. -Backyard camping - Pitch a tent or two and spend the night under the stars. Grill dinner, or make s'mores over the fire pit, and "rough it" together without ever leaving home.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

-Geocaching - If you've always wanted to go on a treasure hunt, geocaching just might be for you. You use a GPS-enabled device and clues to navigate to a specific set of coordinates in order to locate hidden containers. Search online for geocaching near you. people in, setting up water stations and den. Even the littlest ones can have Help your community. actually racing, there are plenty of ways some fun doing good. Serving together is a fun way to grow you can help make a fundraising event closer to each other and make a differ- a success. -Work days - Shelters, schools and ence where you live. churches often need a helping hand to -Urban and community gardens - keep their buildings clean and in good -Charity events - Sign up to help with Sowing, watering, weeding and har- repair. Your family can pitch in to take or participate in a charity race. From vesting–there's always something that care of the facilities that help so many planning and organizing, to checking needs to be done in a community gar- people.

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-Make a difference in your neighborhood - www.DoSomething.org and Bing have teamed up to inspire people to "do good" in their neighborhood by hosting various events across the country this summer. Visit www.bing.com/doing to see if they'll be stopping by a neighborhood near you, or learn how you can participate online. Perfect for the teen in your life, these events don't require money, an adult, or a car to participate. Be hometown foodies. Discover your inner "locovore" by exploring all the different ways to enjoy locally produced food.

-CSA - Community Supported Agriculture groups bring the local harvests to you. For a set fee, sometimes paid in full up front, sometimes paid weekly with pickup, you get a generous selection of whatever is in season. The options change each week, which means you get a tasty surprise. -Restaurants - Try that new restaurant down the street, or the one you've driven by a few times but have never been to. It can be a culinary adventure and a great way to support the local economy. If you're not sure where to go, or if you want to know if a restaurant is good, look it up on www.Bing.com and check out the new feature which allows you to do this all in one place. It shows you reviews from across the web, location maps and directions, as well as interior shots–you can make a reservation, find where you're going and see what it's like, all without leaving your search page.

-Farmers markets - From apples to zucchini, you can find just about any kind of fresh produce, as well as bread, honey, herbs and more. Take your time, try some samples and talk to the vendors about their goods. Bring home some fresh ingredients and experiment When making a decision like where to spend your time and money, most peowith new recipes. ple say it helps to have some input from people they know and trust.

Hope & Health Network

Join Our 90 Day Challenge!

http://hopeandhealth.myvi.net/ 4 | The FC July/August 2012

A child in Haiti needs you…

A recent Bing survey found that -More than 90 percent of respondents are likely to seek the opinions or advice of friends and family as part of their decision-making process. -More than 90 percent of respondents will even delay a decision in order to first get input from family and friends. -More than 75 percent of respondents report they are likely to solicit opinions or advice from their online social networks - 44 percent get the most useful recommendations on travel and restaurants from Facebook and/or Twitter. When you're looking for new ways to make some family fun time, find out about how to get those trusted opinions from your friends, plus new ideas and the best of the web recommendations at www.Bing.com.

Source: Bing Family Features

The Budget Maven

Living on Less in Style

www.centrevie.org

budgetmaven.wordpress.com

Fighting Child Hunger by Sharing the Power of Breakfast

For many of these students, school breakfast programs fill in the gap and provide this key meal. This is why breakfast leader Kellogg's and Action for Healthy Kids, a leading national nonprofit and volunteer network, have partnered for the second consecutive year to help increase participation in school breakfast programs through the "Share Your Breakfast" campaign. "At Kellogg's, we believe that a great breakfast can lead to a great day. Unfortunately, many children do not have access to this important meal, which is why our partnership with Action for Healthy Kids and the support of people across the country is so critical. Together we can make a difference and help ensure kids start the day strong,"

says Doug VanDeVelde, Kellogg SVP Marketing and Innovation Ready-to-Eat Cereal. When children enjoy a bowl of cereal as part of a nutritious breakfast, they are benefitting from essential vitamins and minerals they might otherwise miss. In fact, cereal with milk is the leading source of 10 nutrients in American kids' diets and provides four nutrients–calcium, vitamin D, potassium and fiber– most likely to be lacking in kids' diet.

Photo Courtesy Getty Images

tudies show that breakfast can help kids boost their academic performance–improving behavior, reducing absences and tardiness and increasing focus and physical performance according to research published in the American Dietetic Association Journal (2005). Yet, the United States Department of Agriculture states that the alarming reality is that one in five children live in homes where food is not always available, making breakfast hard to come by.

www.Kelloggs.com/shareyourbreakfa st. Source: Kellogg's Family Features

There are many ways to support the "Share Your Breakfast" movement, including sharing a description of your breakfast on www.facebook.com/Kelloggs. Each breakfast shared will help get the program one step closer to the goal of sharing one million breakfasts with kids across the country during the 2012-2013 school year. To learn more about the benefits of breakfast, visit

Feeding His Sheep www.HisWorkMinistries.org

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July 4th Fun! This is a series of activities that help us celebrate the birthday of America. The games are divided in 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!

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.

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On the Fourth of July (to the tune of London Bridge) It is our country's birthday, Birthday, birthday. It is our country's birthday, On the Fourth of July! On Independence Day (to the tune of 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! Way up in the Sky (to the tune of 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

Sing these songs as you are celebrating the 4th of July:

Materials: Comic Newspaper Sheets

Designs in the Sky (to the tune of Are Sleeping Brother John)

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

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.

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Jesus said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

Freedom in Christ

John 8:31-32

† Find the words below in the puzzle above:

7 | The FC July/August 2012

CALVARY

HERITAGE

CHRISTIAN

INDEPENDENCE

FORGIVENESS

JESUS

FREEDOM

REDEEMED

HEART

RESTORED

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

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.

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

Paul Revere’s Ride

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 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.

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

Materials: Four cones to mark off playing area.

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

Patriotic Water Toss Materials: Balloons 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

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the tossing begin! Each time the balloon is successfully tossed, have the students back up one-step. Forefather’s Fitness

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.

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

Fourth of July Beach ball Game

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.

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.

Active Games Red, White, and Blue Tag

Materials: Beach ball

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 remember the sacrifices made by our countryman and those who have gone before us.

Materials: Red, blue, and white chips References: 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.

Beach ball Games

Statue of Liberty Run

Paul Revere’s Ride

Child Fun http://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.

http://www.theholidayzone.com/fourth/julygames.html

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.

Pinatas.com http://www.pinatas.com/Fourth_Party_Games_s/134.htm Theme Runs http://www.pecentral.org/lessonideas/ViewLesson.asp?ID=5765 Trivia Questions about the Presidents

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 9 | The FC July/August 2012

http://www.kinderart.com/across/beachball.shtml

http://www.leaderu.com/touching/TriviaQuestions.html Wilmes, Liz, and Dick. Parachute Play. Elgin, IL: Building Blocks, 200. Wnek, Barbara. Holiday Games and Activities. Human Kinetics, 1992

Champaign, IL:

Getting the Dirt on Dirt for Healthier, Happier Kids

When children are exposed to germs and pathogens during infancy, their risk of cardiovascular inflammation in adulthood is reduced, according to a 2010 Northwestern University study.

A friendly bacteria found in soil helps produce serotonin, which enhances feelings of well-being, much the same way that antidepressant drugs and exercise do, according to a 2007 Bristol University study.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

irt is a four-letter word to many moms, but letting your kids get dirty is actually good for them according to a new report from the National Wildlife Federation, "The Dirt on Dirt: How Getting Dirty Outdoors Benefits Kids."

Fears about dangers lurking in the muck–microbes, parasites and amoebas, oh my!–keep some parents from letting kids do what comes naturally, which is to go outside and get dirty.

While common sense sanitation practices like washing hands and using hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available shouldn't stop, you'll be doing your children a favor if you encourage them to go outside and get dirty.

Here are some fun–and messy–ideas from the National Wildlife Federation that will let your kids have some good, clean, dirty fun outdoors:

Be an Artist ▲

But here's a dirty little secret: Children who spend the better part of their free time in the company of their sterile hi-tech gadgets rather than playing outside, are more vulnerable to obesity, ADHD, vitamin D deficiency and depression.

There's a growing body of research that suggests overprotecting kids from dirt and germs may actually inhibit their physical health and resilience. Activities kids love, such as making mud pies, splashing in puddles and rolling down hillsides are actually a grubby prescription for health and happiness.

Children's stress levels fall within minutes of seeing green spaces, according to a 2004 study in the American Journal of Public Health.

Give your child a stick and a muddy surface to

draw on. Mistakes are no problem. Just smooth them over and start again.

▲ Mud balls can become out-of-season snowmen or abstract sculptures. If your child's creation isn't sticking together, just add more water.

Be a Builder

Your children can make buildings of all shapes and sizes if they use sticks to create a frame and pack

See next page… The FC July/August 2012 | 10

Be a Chef

If you're going to play in the mud, why not make some mud pies? If you have some old cake or pie tins, great. Otherwise, shallow plastic containers work just fine. Once the pies are "baked," it's time to make them beautiful. Encourage your children to scour the yard for pebbles, petals, and leaves that will make perfect decorations on top.

Collect dirt, grass, leaves, twigs and acorns in a large container, and you have a bountiful nature salad. Add some water, and it's mud stew.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

To check out the DIRT report and for more outdoor fun ideas from National Wildlife Federation's Be Out There movement, visit www.beoutthere.org. Submit stories and photos of your own dirty kids and win some fun prizes.

Source: National Wildlife Federation Family Features

mud onto it. Houses or forts perhaps, a castle with a moat, or a stable to put toy horses in.

If they also like the idea of large-scale public works, have them make a river by digging a trench in the mud or dirt. Then, add water as needed. Most importantly, build a dam to protect the town.

Be a Biologist ▲ When it rains, take a walk through your neighborhood to see which animals go under cover and which come out in wet weather. You may also see birds swooping down to take a bath in nearby puddles.

▲This is also a fine time to study worms that surface to breathe when their burrows fill with water. Then, enlist the kids in a Worm Rescue Squad and move any worms they find on the sidewalk back to the dirt so they don't dry out.

11 | The FC July/August 2012

Rachael Ray's FreshOver Recipe Guide offers delicious, healthier meal options

o help families transform ordinary meals into fresher versions that the whole family will feel good about eating, Ziploc Brand has partnered with best-selling author and TV personality Rachael Ray to bring healthier food choices to tables with the Great American FreshOver Project, a fresh food makeover made easy.

said Ray. "Anyone can get started on their FreshOver Projects in their own kitchen."

Rachael is an expert at creating quick meals. She aims to motivate families to swap their traditional recipes for versions that contain healthier ingredients and taste just as good.

Yield: 4 servings | Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes

"According to a Ziploc Fresh Eating Survey, 72 percent of Americans feel like a good parent when their family eats fresh food, but only 47 percent eat fresh foods on a daily basis. To make eating fresh easier, Ziploc and I are sharing recipes and tips on how to incorporate fresh ingredients into favorites like pizza and mac 'n cheese,"

12 | The FC July/August 2012

For more recipes from the Ziploc Brand and Rachael Ray, visit the Ziploc Brand Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ziploc.

The Only Pizza You'll Ever Want Again

Crust 1 16-ounce package pizza dough, brought to room temperature 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons grated ParmigianoReggiano Toppings 1/3 pound broccoli from trimmed broccoli bin in produce section, 1/3 head 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 turn of the pan 3 cloves cracked garlic

pound chicken breast cut for stir fry, or chicken tenders Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 cup part skim ricotta cheese 10 sun dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, available on dairy aisle 12 to 15 leaves fresh basil, torn or Stacked and thinly sliced

Preheat oven to 500°F. On 12-inch nonstick pizza pan, stretch out dough and form pizza crust. Drizzle olive oil on crust and spread it with a pastry brush over the dough to the edges. Sprinkle crust with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. In a small covered saucepan, bring 2 inches water to a boil. Separate broccoli tops into florets, discarding lower stalks or reserving for soup. Salt water

and add broccoli florets. Cook, covered, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain broccoli and set on cutting board. Chop broccoli florets into small pieces.

Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes. Top with lots of torn or shredded basil. Cut pizza into 8 slices using pizza wheel and serve.

Heat a small nonstick pan over medium high to high heat. Add oil, cracked garlic and chicken. Season with salt and pepper.

Tip: Put an individual serving size of chicken in Ziploc Brand Perfect Portions Bags right after purchasing and freeze in a Ziploc Brand Freezer Bag. That way you don't have to defrost more chicken than you need for a meal.

Brown chicken until lightly golden all over, 3 to 5 minutes. Chop sautéed chicken and garlic on a cutting board into small pieces. To assemble pizza, dot crust with broccoli and chicken. Dot crust with spoonfuls of ricotta, spreading gently with the back of spoon. Add sliced sun-dried tomatoes, scattering around pizza to edges. Complete assembly with a thin layer of shredded mozzarella. Place pizza in oven on middle rack and lower heat to 450°F. Bake 12 minutes, until cheese is deep golden in color and crust is brown and crisp at the edges.

Stretch a Buck Turkey and Bean Burrito Burgers Yield: 4 servings | Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 16 minutes

1 1 1

cup cold leftover white or brown rice pound ground turkey (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained Palmful chili powder 1 ½ teaspoons cumin, half a palmful 1 ½ teaspoons coriander, half a palmful 1 tablespoon grill seasoning, (recommended: Montreal Seasoning by McCormick) 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 ripe avocado 1 clove garlic, grated or finely chopped 1 lime, zested and juiced 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped ½ small red onion, finely chopped ½ cup sour cream 4 red leaf lettuce leaves 1 ripe tomato, sliced 4 crusty rolls, split

Cook patties 7 to 8 minutes on each side. While burgers cook, combine avocado with garlic, lime zest and juice, jalapeño and red onion. Mash to roughly combine, then stir in the sour cream. Place burgers on buns with lettuce and tomato, and top with sour cream guacamole. Tip: To keep leftovers fresh, store in reusable dishes like Ziploc Twist n' Loc Containers.

Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin Mac 'n Cheese Yield: 6 servings | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour

1 1

1 2 1

Combine rice, meat and beans with spices and grill seasoning. Form 4 big patties, then heat 1 tablespoon oil (a turn of the pan) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

1/3

small head or bundle broccoli, trimmed into florets small head cauliflower or half a large head, trimmed and cut into florets pound whole-wheat macaroni or penne or other short cut pasta cups sour cream or reduced-fat sour cream tablespoon Dijon mustard cup finely chopped chives cloves garlic, peeled and grated or crushed into paste A few drops hot sauce

See Fresh and Fun page 15 The FC July/August 2012 | 13

Spicy Slaw Dog

Great Gluten-free Grilling

ookouts, picnics and barbecues mean sharing food and good fun with family and friends. For those living gluten-free, whether due to dietary restrictions or personal choice, these gatherings can cause added stress, as finding foods they can eat may prove difficult. Likewise, gluten-free eaters may worry they'll be perceived as picky or difficult. But with today's great tasting glutenfree options, such as cookies and brownies, hotdog and hamburger buns, and even pizza crusts, glutenfree individuals can now join in the hot-off-the-grill goodness. Gluten-free breads, including hamburger and hotdog buns, have come a long way over the past few years. In fact, makers like Udi's Gluten Free Foods are leading the way in making gluten-free products that taste just as good, if not better, than their glutenfilled counterparts. That means whether you're noshing on a hamburger or a hotdog, you'll have the freedom to 14 | The FC July/August 2012

choose a delicious gluten-free bun to wrap around your favorite cookout fare. Hosting your own backyard barbeque? Here are some simple tips to make gluten-free grilling deliciously easy and safe for all your guests: ■ Always check the labels. Gluten shows up in some surprising places, including marinades, condiments and even some processed meats. ■ Many grilling side dishes are naturally gluten-free, so set out plenty of potato salad, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, melon and other fruits, and baked beans. ■ Grill any gluten-free foods first - that way you'll avoid the possibility of cross-contamination with foods that do contain gluten. You can also grill individual meals inside foil or parchment packets and prevent cross-contamination that way, too. ■ If you're going to someone else's party, bring your own crackers and snacks, and even your own glutenfree buns.

And, try this recipe for Spicy Slaw Dogs which is completely gluten-free, from the hot dogs and condiments to the tangy slaw and tender buns. You can find more great gluten-free recipes for grilling - and anytime - at www.udisglutenfree.com.

Spicy Slaw Dogs Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes

1 2 2 2 1 ½ 1 1 1 6

pack Udi's Gluten Free Hot Dog Buns TB butter, softened TB stone ground mustard, (gluten free) TB ketchup TB soy sauce, (gluten free) tsp vegetable oil large garlic clove, minced TB plus 1 teaspoon honey TB plus 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar cups finely shredded green cabbage, (about ½ head) fresh red or jalapeño chiles, (seeded and thinly sliced) See GF Grilling next page

GF Grilling cont…

Salt to taste Gluten-free hot dogs

To prepare hot dog buns: Mix together butter and mustard; spread on buns. Lightly toast buns on grill. To prepare hot dogs: Mix together ketchup, soy sauce, vegetable oil and garlic in a small bowl. Cut cross-hatches in hot dogs. Pour mixture onto a plate and roll hot dogs in it. Grill to desired doneness. To prepare slaw: In large bowl, stir honey with sherry vinegar until honey is dissolved. Add shredded cabbage and chiles; season with salt and toss. Let stand until cabbage is slightly softened, tossing a few times, about 15 minutes.

Fresh and Fun cont…

Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 ½ cups grated extra-sharp cheddar

Bring large pot of water to a boil over medium heat. Salt water and add broccoli and cauliflower florets. Boil vegetables for 5 minutes, then remove with a spider or a strainer and drain. Add pasta to water and undercook by about 2 minutes, drain. Meanwhile, combine sour cream in large bowl along with mustard, chives, garlic, hot sauce, salt and pepper, to taste.

Add pasta and cauliflower and 2/3 of the cheese. Stir to combine, then transfer to a casserole dish or Ziploc VersaGlass container and cover with remaining cheese. Cool and chill for a makeahead meal. To heat and eat, put casserole on baking sheet and bake in the middle of a preheated 375°F oven until deeply golden and bubbly, about 40 to 45 minutes. Tip: Make a double batch and freeze for a later date.

Source: Ziploc | Family Features

Place grilled hot dog in hot dog bun and top with slaw. Source: Udi's Gluten Free | Family Features

The FC July/August 2012 | 15

icnics are a perfect way to enjoy getting together with friends and family this summer. No matter what your destination - beach, park or just your backyard - there's no need to settle for standard fare. Instead, make summertime favorites like pasta salad, potato salad, vegetable dip and California style wraps even more delicious by adding the new Hellmann's® or Best Foods® mayonnaise dressing with Olive Oil recipe. Made with high-quality ingredients, including olive oil, cage-free eggs, and vinegar, it combines the creamy, rich taste of Hellmann's® or Best Foods® with the delicious goodness of olive oil. Visit www.Hellmanns.com or www.BestFoods.com for more summer recipes and additional information.

16 | The FC July/August 2012

Picnic Food Safety Tips Make sure you properly store and serve your picnic treats so they stay fresh and delicious.

California Chicken Wrap Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cold Food -Cold perishable food should be kept in a cooler at 40°F or below until it's time to serve. -Foods like cold salads or desserts in individual serving dishes can be placed directly on ice. Drain off water as ice melts, and replace ice frequently. Hot Food -Hot food should be kept hot, at or above 140°F. -Wrap hot foods well, and place in an insulated container until serving. Once served, no food should sit out for longer than two hours - one hour if the outdoor temperature is above 90°F. To be safe, throw away any food that has been left out longer.

tablespoons Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil 4 6-inch fajita size whole wheat flour tortillas 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced 1 medium avocado, peeled and sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1/4 cup sliced red onion 2

cups mixed salad greens

Spread Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil on tortillas. Layer chicken, avocado, red pepper, red onion and salad greens down center of each tortilla. Roll and fold the filled tortillas.

Easy Vegetable Dip Makes: 2 ½ cups | Prep Time: 5 minutes Chill Time: 2 hours

1 package Knorr® Vegetable recipe mix ½ cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil 1 container (16 ounces) sour cream

Combine all ingredients in medium bowl. Cover and chill 2 hours to blend flavors.

The Original Potato Salad

Stir before serving. Serve with your favorite dippers.

Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes

pounds potatoes (5 to 6 medium), peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks 1 cup Hellmann's(r) or Best Foods(r) Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil 2 tablespoons vinegar 1 ½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon sugar ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 cup thinly sliced celery ½ cup chopped onion 2 hard-cooked eggs, chopped (optional)

Pasta Salad with Vegetables

Cover potatoes with water in 4-quart saucepot; bring to a boil over mediumhigh heat. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Drain and cool slightly. Combine Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil, vinegar, salt, sugar and pepper in large bowl. Add potatoes, celery, onion and eggs and toss gently. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes

2 ½ 6

1 1/3

Combine vegetables with remaining ingredients in large bowl. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Tip: Vegetables may also be roasted in the oven.

Source: Hellmann's® /Best Foods® Family Features

cup Hellmann's® or Best Foods® Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil, divided tablespoons balsamic vinegar teaspoon ground black pepper cups assorted fresh vegetables (zucchini, red and yellow peppers and/or red onion), sliced box (16 ounces) fusilli pasta, cooked, drained and cooled cup sliced Kalamata or pit-

ted ripe olives 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, chopped

Blend ¼ cup Mayonnaise Dressing with Olive Oil, vinegar and ground black pepper in medium bowl. Stir in vegetables. Arrange vegetable mixture in grill pan or on foil on grill. Grill vegetables, stirring once, 20 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Cool.

The FC July/August 2012 | 17

Gluten Free Cooking By Stacey Johnson for The Fit Christian

Stacey Johnson is a pastor's wife and mother of two. She ummer is supposed to be a time enjoys hiking, biking, and yoga, and loves expressing creativity in every day life. It is her passion and ministry to Going to a BBQ? Come preto relax, kick back a little and educate and help those who are newly diagnosed with Celiac disease to gain health and enjoyment of gluten-free enjoy. Don’t let gluten issues pared with your own GF bun. Also, foods. hold you back! Here are some tips for contribute a salad or side that you can gluten free summer eating. eat too! Try the Italian Pasta Salad reci- tions for meals. Lots of fresh fruit is always a good idea! pe (next page).

Fill an insulated bag with glu-

Take advantage of this time of When preparing for vacation, ten free bars, crackers, nuts and dried fruit for unexpected hikes or trips to the check out www.glutenfreeregistry.com year to try new salads and lighter meals. beach. It’s always a good idea to be ahead of time to see what restaurants in prepared. the area are safe. With a little planning, you can make your summer enjoyable, and your food When you are out for a day trip, Staying at someone’s home allergy will not be the focus. Healthy pack a cooler with everything you along the way? Be sure to prepare them gluten free summer eating can be fun might need for a meal. This way, if you before you arrive. Determine what you and stress free! end up somewhere you can’t really eat will need to bring and what they can anything, you’re prepared. prepare for you. Also, check to see what specialty stores are in the area.

GF kids going to camp? Call

ahead and get a feel for what the kitchen can do. Also, pack an insulted bag with fruit snacks, bars, peanut butter, crackers, microwaveable rice bowls, and other non-perishables.

18 | The FC July/August 2012

If camping is in the summer

plan, make sure to purchase GF Graham crackers for SMORE fun. Marshmallows and chocolate bars are already safe. Also, be prepared with some op-

Italian Pasta Salad 1 ½ 3 1 1 3 1 4 1 1 1

16-oz. package brown rice penne C olive oil Cloves garlic, minced Bunch broccoli, cut Zucchini, sliced and quartered Sweet peppers (red, orange and yellow) 6-oz. can pitted olives Organic vine ripe tomatoes, chopped C organic Parmesan cheese, grated C organic Romano cheese, grated Package organic, GF pepperoni slices, cut in half Sea salt and pepper to taste GF all natural Italian dressing to taste

1) Cook the pasta according to directions, refresh in cool water, add to a large bowl 2) Cook the oil and garlic in a sauce pan over medium heat until garlic is just browned, let cool 3) Lightly blanch the broccoli and zucchini, refresh in cool water, add to pasta 4) Add peppers, olives, tomatoes and cheeses and pepperoni to pasta 5) Pour cooled oil over the pasta and lightly toss and refrigerate 6) When ready to serve, add salt, pepper and dressing Makes a large, picnic size amount!

For more GF recipes and for more information on ordering Stacy Johnson’s GF Organic Cookbook It’s All Good Without Gluten! visit www.hisworkpub.com/itsallgood.

The FC July/August 2012 | 19

Alisa Keeton, 41, is the Founder of Revelation Wellness, a non-profit ministry dedicated to educating and inspiring people to live healthy and whole lives in Christ.

Spotlight: Alisa Keeton

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Alisa holds a B.A from Arizona State University and is a 20-year veteran as a certified group fitness instructor & personal trainer. Besides being the President of Revelation Wellness Foundation,

which

she

founded, she volunteers her time

with

fundraising

events and missions trips to Uganda, Africa for Food for the Hungry.

Alisa lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband Simon and their two children, Jack (11) and Sophia (8).

Titles won:

Alisa Keeton

~NPC Bodybuilding Competition, Phoenix Az–2nd

remember feeling that I was made for just this.

Place 1996

FC: In your youth, what did you

~NPC Bodybuilding Com-

want to be when you grew up?

petition, Phoenix Az—3rd

AK: Crazy enough, in 1985, by the

FC:

age of 14, after taking my first aerobic class, I wanted to be an aerobics instructor. I remember in the cool down, lying on the ground, stretching, and thinking to myself, Whatever that woman just did, I want to do that. I

Again?”

1995

By Angela J. Willard Perez for The Fit Christian

20 | The FC July/August 2012

AK:

When

were

you

“Born

I accepted Christ as my Savior

in 1998.

What happened in your life for my parents, the more I saw the weight go on. At some point, I made a that made you realize your need for a pact with myself that I was not going to Savior? become that. But I was angry. I was AK: Soon after my first year of mar- angry about all the pain. riage, I realized that not even my husband, or marriage, or even a prominent Now I can see that in the beginning I fitness career was going to be able to fill pursued fitness as means to my end; a the hole in my heart. Thank God He way to control my life and manage the came to rescue my needy heart! pain. It was behavior modification.

Spotlight: Alisa Keeton

FC:

Eventually that type of lifestyle leaves FC: Which word best describes us feeling empty, lacking and exhausted. That was who I became. your faith: Religion or Relationship and why? Then I ran headlong into Christ, or AK: Relationship. I needed to know I should I say Christ ran headlong into was loved, that I was valued, and that I me. He has taken my distorted view and mattered. That is something that reli- motivations for eating right and exergion does not provide. Religion pro- cise, to be beautiful and loved, and has vides safety. “Follow these rules and redeemed them, because I am beautiful you get to Heaven” … “Follow these and loved. Because I am beautiful and steps and you will lead a good life.” I loved, He has given me the right to be wasn’t much into safe. I like the wild healthy and whole. Now it is for freeside of life. I am kind of a rebel that dom and joy that I pursue a healthy way. I have found that my relationship lifestyle, which really just means I purwith Christ, learning about Him and the sue Jesus. Father’s love for me is radical, fierce and takes me often into uncharted terriFC: What fitness goals have you set tories, places that religion would never out to accomplish in your lifetime? be able to lead me. Which goals have you met?

Alisa Keeton

AK: I predominantly eat foods that will give me life and not take it away, without becoming legalistic about foods that are less life-giving. I subscribe to the Paul diet, “Everything is permissible for me—but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me—but I will not be mastered by anything”—1 Corinthians 6:19.

FC:

What fitness regimen do you

follow when you are in training?

FC: When did you decide to pursue AK: My fitness goal is to bring health a healthy lifestyle?

AK:

I grew up in a home where I

and wholeness to all of God’s people everywhere through the ministry of Revelation Wellness. To see the world set on fire with people who are fit and ready to fill their life purpose: to love God, and love others with all their heart, mind, soul and strength.

knew it was time for dinner by the sound of the grease popping in the pan. I come from a large Mexican American family. Healthy eating and exercise was not a normal part of daily life. I watched my parents slowly gain weight over the FC: What special nutritional diet years. The weight gain seemed to foldo you follow when you are in trainlow the pain gain. The harder life got ing? © The Fit Christian Magazine. All Rights Reserved. A Publication of His Work Christian Ministries. www.fitchristian.com

Alisa Keeton with her family. The FC July/August 2012 | 21

Spotlight: Alisa Keeton

Alisa Keeton

AK: If I feel like I have to work-out, I don’t. Because that would be an indicator that I am over trained, and burnout and injury is lurking just around the corner. If I feel like I don’t want to work out, I do. Because I know that indolence is trying to keep me from the blessing of worshipping God in body & Spirit. Bottom line: If I feel like I have to, I don’t. If I feel like I don’t want to, I do.

FC: Why “Revelation Wellness”? What made you begin, when did you begin, and how did you choose the name?

AK: In my life story, I pursued fitness first, before I was willing to pursue God. After eight–plus years of trying to help people lose weight and attain their personal health goals the world’s way, I got frustrated with the lack of compliance or the inability for people to maintain good health. Then my life ran straight into Jesus. As we

22 | The FC July/August 2012

all know, He likes to disturb the status quo. When I began to pursue Him before my fitness, He made it clear to me that we simply cannot know what is true, real, well and lasting without revelation from God. If we are willing to pursue God, He will give us revelation. Then the choice has to be made, will we abide. Will we stay and stick it out through the hard and sticky stuff that He would like us to know about our true self. If we are willing to do that work, then wellness will grow in our hearts and seep out into our lives. Is there anything that you

The Lord knows what He is doing when He brings “the one” into your life for the rest of your life. Our story is not your typical love story, and I don’t have enough time in this interview to begin to unfold for you all the crazy ways God has used our marriage love to stretch, strengthen and grow my faith in our Heavenly Father. He is the Father who gives all good gifts. God gifted me with my husband, knowing exactly what I would need in order to become the woman that I am today. He knew I would need a Simon. A rock. He is integrity. He is my steady.

have had to overcome in order to achieve your fitness goals?

FC: If you could change one thing

AK: I have had to overcome my fear

about yourself, what would it be, and why?

FC:

of what others might think as I boldly proclaim the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. I have had to overcome my own personal fears that lie to me and tell me that I am not enough or I am too much. The lie that no one really cares about the spiritual part and that no one will really ever “get” what God is up to through His ministry that is Revelation Wellness. I have had to overcome these fears that attempt to consume me with worry. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life”—Proverbs 13:12.

AK: Oh that’s an easy one. I would like to be more patient. I am also happy to say that I have come a long way, but I know I still have a long way to go. Instead of running ahead of God these days, I do a lot more waiting on Him. It’s still not my first nature, but it is my true nature in the making. † All photos by Stephanie Moors of BeFree Photography, unless otherwise indicated.

FC: Who, in your life, has inspired you the most and in what way?

AK: My husband Simon has inspired me the most in my life.

The Keeton family. Photo by Alisa Keeton

Theresa Rowe is an author of Guidepost’s “Shaped by Faith, Ten Secrets to Strengthening Your Body and Soul.”

ur two-year-old grandson, Wyatt, had just exited the garage on his toddler four-wheeler at warp speed. Although he didn’t spin rubber, it sounded and looked speedy with plastic spinning on concrete, and Pappy playing catch up with the fearless adventurer. The ninety-degree weather did nothing to deter the energized child and his fully charged fourwheeler. By the time I jumped on the real fourwheeler and reached the corner of the garage, Wyatt was approaching the last tree in the wooded area at the edge of the farm. I was shocked to see him in this part of the farm and as I got closer, I noticed he had 23 | The FC July/August 2012

The Benefits of the Great Outdoors stopped and Pappy was approaching carefully. This was quite an unusual sight, Wyatt still and Pappy cautious. Surveying the situation I thought, “There must be an unwelcome guest in the grass.” My husband in a tense and terse voice shouted, “Get the hoe. Get the hoe!” It was then I knew the identity of the visitor. Now for some, snakes are just great, and that’s fine, but when grandchildren are nearby, we won’t be nearly as protective of the snakes. Slowly approaching the scene, my momma bear came out and I commanded Pappy to grab Wyatt and give him to me at once. He quickly grabbed and handed Wyatt to me and we drove away leaving Pappy to deal with the snake. As we drove away, Wyatt explained about his driving over the snake, and that he had been relating that to Pappy. I told him the next time he rides over a snake to just keep going and not stop, because some snakes will bite. Then in vivid detail, he said the snake had tried to bite his tire. I’m not really sure if that happened or not, but it was a good thing Pappy was there to help him! Thank goodness my daughter was not home to witness any of this. There are many varieties of non-poisonous snakes in our area but our concern is the copperheads, and the rumor of timber-rattlers in our hills. My husband approached cautiously because he didn’t know where the snake was and there have

been some poisonous snakes in homeowners’ yards in the county. By the way, the snake escaped with a stern warning and a plastic tire mark on his back. The snake didn’t seem to bother Wyatt at all. In fact, he was quite curious about it and wondered why he had ventured into the yard. So when he outlasted the battery in his four-wheeler, we hooked it up to re-charge in the garage and continued his outdoor adventure. We all hopped on the big fourwheeler and decided to take a trip to the lake. Driving past the cornfield, I recommended to Pappy that he needed to bush hog a better path to the lake. He did his best to ignore my comments but Wyatt agreed with me and he repeated my suggestion with emphasis. As we sat on the fourwheeler, in the tall grass staring at the lake, I pointed at what I thought were two foxes running on the other side of the lake. It turned out the foxes were actually two baby bobcats. I nudged my husband and suggested we return to the house, certain that mom-

ma bobcat would not appreciate our visit, especially in such close proximity to her children. By now, I was frothing at the mouth, but Wyatt said he was not thirsty and simply wanted to play. The heat was wearing on Nana and Pappy, but Wyatt was having too much fun to stop. Watching Wyatt run and play made me remember my days as a child. My husband and I both remember spending the entire summer outside enjoying the great outdoors. But now, nearing

the neighbor’s tree or sneak a few blackberries from the neighbor’s bushes that hung over the fence in the alley. Honeysuckle was plentiful and available in nearly every yard, and tasty as an afternoon snack. If we got too hot we would find a sprinkler watering a lawn and cool down by running or riding our bikes through it until we cooled down or were asked to leave by the parent. Moms it is time for us to be Momma Bears about our children’s health. Dads you are not off the hook either. Parents we need to be as diligent in our efforts to get

“As Christians, we should all be disciplining our bodies for the purpose of godliness.” fifty, my energy level has changed drastically from the days of my youth. Even though I am used to working out, it’s indoors—with air conditioning—and I am pacing myself to get things done. As a child, it’s always “full speed ahead.” I remembered something else while watching and playing with Wyatt. Children did not have an obesity problem when I was a child. In fact, I do not recall even a few children with a weight problem when I was growing up. There’s an easy explanation, we burned a gazillion calories every day. We played from sun up to sun down. We didn’t snack on junk food all day. We drank water, and not bottled, it was from a hose—oh my goodness, a hose; no calorie-laden colas or sports drinks! Parents were not a taxi service. We ran, walked or rode our bikes to get where we needed to go. If we got hungry we would eat an apple off

our children moving as we are about making them happy buying new things. I know times have changed and both parents are working but their health is at stake. When you get home from work, get them moving by moving with them. Go outside and play. Ride bikes, swim, play catch, whatever you both want to do. Hey, it might even get you in better shape. I know it will be good for their health and it will definitely help you get closer to each other.

of godliness. I know this, if I did not discipline my body and decided to stop exercising, my weight would increase. My weight would increase twenty-five pounds within six months. If I ate what I really want to eat everyday, yes, I would become obese and lethargic. But my goal is to serve God, and His plan requires energy. God supplies us with His supernatural strength when we place our hope in Him. It is by His strength my purpose is revealed. Let the words of our Lord in Isaiah 40:28-31 inspire you: Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. †

Failing to play Momma Bear now with your child could have them making this statement later in life, which was made to me last week: “You don’t know how overweight people feel, you have always been thin.” As Christians, we should all be disciplining our bodies for the purpose

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bout eight years ago I took up running as a hobby. Frankly, it was the best way to deal with realities in life. I was having trouble dealing with infertility and feeling like I did not fit into the traditional mode of being a middle–aged woman at church. In many places in my life, I felt I did not fit in, due to not having children, sitting contently reading a Christian romantic novel or adventure series, or a desire to be Suzy Homemaker, or scrapbooking memories. I found a training group, starting running, and found new friends and people who were trying to better their lives through fitness and enjoying the great outdoors. Instead of the traditional friendships, I found other places where people like these runners really cared about me and were there from the trail to the ever-open invitation of talking at breakfast. I found I was not alone and that there were people out there who felt the same way as I did and could face trials and struggles through participating in physical fitness. Romans 5:3-4 remind us, “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” When we ran together for more than just a few miles, I found out others struggled with the disappointments of life, serious illness, work challenges, frustration with spouses and finances, and just life in

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general. On the trail, I did not feel I had to exhibit the perfect image as I did at work and at church. After completing my first marathon, I realized I had been given a gift because not many people are able to run as far as I often do. Because I am a slow, steady runner, I found many friends who were fast and others who were just there enjoying the journey. Without really thinking of it, I started to use my love of running as a witnessing tool. Hebrews 12:1 tells us, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” I began to offer to pray for people’s needs and develop friendships with people whom I would not have connected except through my sport. Instead of organizing parties for little ones as I originally thought I would, I began to organize events for runners through fun runs locally and at my house. Instead of coaching my little son’s or daughter’s team, I began to coach others to run their first marathon or half through training and encouragement. Another great joy was using my time as an athlete and certified trainer to coach Special Olympics, train and supervise youth/adult fitness programs for my fitness center and special recreation facilities, and do a weekly personal trainer position training an adult with Asperger’s.

I have also been involved as an assistant coach and mentor with Girls on the Run. Additionally, I have been able to sweep and run at the back of five half-marathons, and encourage and pray for those along the way that were at the back of the pack of the races. Isaiah 40:31 tells us that “those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” I believe one of my missions in life is to help others through the joy of running. I have not given up on church or on establishing relationships at church, but I have realized that I don’t have to fit a perfect mold and I can use my running ministry as I deal with others at my school and church. It also has helped my singing ministry, with my stamina and strength. Moreover, I have been able to establish friendships with our youth at our church, showing them that even though you are middle-aged, you can always reach for dreams and goals. And that there is more to life than just fitting into a mold of marriage, children, having the statistical-only Christian friendships, and a sedentary lifestyle. You can also be different and that’s okay. Maybe my fit body and healthy lifestyle will influence those around me to make great choices and enjoy the great outdoors. And for these reasons, I run. †

Grab Life by the Handlebars with Expert Cycling Tips When the weather is warm, bikers everywhere hear the trails calling their name. Well-known endurance sports coach Chris Carmichael and award winning professional cyclist George Hincapie share nine tips to help you gear up for your ride. Whether you're hitting the pavement, dirt trails or rugged terrain, these two cycling superstars promise to help you cycle further, longer and safer this summer. Build Strength: In between rides, build strength in your legs, arms and back. Bulking up these muscle groups will prevent injury and increase endurance every time you get back on your ride. Go The Distance: Perseverance is half the battle when it comes to cycling, so with every ride, tell

yourself you'll go a little farther. Every extra mile will add up to give you muchneeded endurance, which will come in handy whether you're exploring a new trail or taking on your first triathlon. Get Loose: Relax your arms and keep your elbows unlocked. Keeping your body loose while riding helps you better absorb the shock from bumps in the road. Gear Up: When it comes to tracking your goals, today's technology offers a variety of ways to measure your progress, making it easier than ever to reach your peak and go beyond it. Our personal favorite is Motorola's MOTOACTV, the all-in-one GPS touch screen cycling computer and smart MP3 player, helping you to stay focused and motivated on any ride. Stay Seated: Trying to scale an incline? It'll be harder if you're standing up. When biking uphill, resist the urge to stand and pedal, and instead shift your gears down and conserve energy by staying in your seat. Hydrate: The more you cycle the more your body craves fluids in order to replace what you lose in sweat. During the summer, it's particularly important to stay hydrated throughout the duration of your ride.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Release the Power of Your Playlist: Your playlist is more than just songs to workout to; they're songs that push you to work - up a hill, during that last mile, on a sweltering day. Before hitting the trail, create your ultimate get-moving playlist to ensure you stay pedaling hard your whole ride. Switch It Up: Change up your body position while riding to avoid cramps and stressing specific muscles. Remember, while it's great to test your boundaries and achieve your goals, be sure to put your health and safety first. Armed with the right mentality and tips, there's no limit to what you can achieve. Visit www.MOTOACTV.com for more cycling advice from the experts and to learn more about MOTOACTV.

Source: MOTOACTV Family Features

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The Least of These By Katie Cooke, Director and House Parent of Face of My Father Children´s Home for The Fit Christian

or the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace…” the kids recite as we have our Bible Study time. Looking around the circle of children before me, I see eyes that have seen too much, ears that have been bombarded with verbal abuse, and bodies that have been damaged and scarred. But I also see smiles that show that Jesus is healing them from the inside out. These children are part of the Face of My Father Children´s Home family in San Marcos, Jalisco, Mexico. They were removed from their homes because of violence and neglect, and have now lived in the Children´s Home for more than two years. While the outward scars may never completely disappear, the Holy Spirit´s work in these precious children is removing the inward scarring, a pulling out of

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weeds, so that good fruit can be produced in their lives. Last week I picked this year´s first apple off of our apple tree and reflected on how long it takes fruit to grow. How many years ago did we plant that tree? And finally we are reaping the rewards. But not without watering, watching, and caring for the little stub that had been planted in the ground. So it is with the children in our care. Throughout the three years that Face of My Father has been open, we have cared for 14 different children from the ages of 8-months to 14-years and have seen that it takes patience, unconditional love, wisdom, and constant prayer to see good things begin to grow in their lives. They enter the home completely undisciplined, full of anger and fear, and with no understanding of God or His love for them. And so the process of weeding and sowing begins. Some of the children who enter our doors will only be with us for a few days, others for years, but we see every day as a new opportunity to love, teach, discipline, guide, and serve.

When my husband, William, and I made the decision to move to San Marcos in 1997, we knew God had called us to share Him with a people who were very “religious” but who had no understanding of a relationship with Jesus Christ. Our home church in Ketchikan, Alaska (USA) supported our calling, and seven months after marrying, we packed up whatever belongings would fit in our pick-up and headed south. I was 20 at the time and William 23, and we were eager and excited to take on whatever tasks God had for us. Our first year of ministry was spent im-

proving our Spanish, getting to know people in the town, and building a good reputation. We were both foreigners and Christians, and that combination made everyone in town suspicious, so we went to great lengths to “live a life worthy of the calling [we had] received” (Ephesians 4:1). With a small church established, we then began working on our next vision, a Home for orphaned and abandoned children. That dream took 11 years to see fulfilled. God has perfect timing, though, and we now look back over those 11 years as training for what we now live as directors and house parents in the Home. Our original thought had been to care for orphans while the authorities searched for adoptive parents. We have been pleased to find that in our area of Mexico there are very few orphans, due to a strong family support system. When parents die the grandparents or aunts and uncles almost always take on the role of parents to any children left behind. The greater need in our area was for a Home for abused and neglected children. These little victims are brought to our Home by the authorities and then enter “the system” where their cases are processed and a decision is made as to what will become of them. Some will return to family members, some will eventually be adopted into other families, and others will live in the Home until they are 18 and can decide whether to move on or stay as workers. Studying Galatians 5:22-23 with the children has reminded me of what this work is all about:

Love: loving the unloved, the ugly, the disobedient. Joy: showing them that in Jesus their sorrow can be turned to joy. Peace: giving them a peaceful home where they know their needs and many wants will be met. Patience: waiting as God works in the children´s lives and avoiding the urge to push things ahead our way. Kindness: teaching by word and example how to respect and treat others properly. Goodness: looking for ways as a “family” to “do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:10). Faithfulness: being willing to push on day after day when sometimes our efforts don´t seem to make a difference, knowing that God is still at work. Gentleness: remembering that we, too, are sinners saved by grace and not giving way to our anger. Self-control: Being disciplined in every area of life so as to be a good example to others and not fall into temptation.

William and Katie Cooke have ministered in San Marcos since 1997. William is pastor of the local Christian and Missionary Alliance church the "Iglesia Peniel." They have three children, David, 12, Emily, 11, and Lane, 8. You can contact them at cooke_penielsm@hotmail.com William and Katie Cooke, AP 8, San Marcos, Jalisco, CP 46540 MEXICO phone: 001-52-386-757-0551 Donate to: Clover Pass Community Church ATTN: Face of My Father 105 N. Pt. Higgins Rd. Ketchikan, Alaska 99901 USA 907-247-2360 cpcc@kpunet.net

Quite the fruit salad! Each fruit is good by itself but mixed together makes for a thriving ministry and a harmonious home; and at Face of My Father that is our goal, to care for “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40) in our service to the Lord. †

www.faceofmyfather.org

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The Face

By Angela J. Willard Perez for The Fit Christian

children, and widows. With their feeding programs, and help with living and education-including helping the children through schooling them at home and in public schools, they are able to reach out in poverty-stricken areas with the love of Christ and share hope with the Gospel message of God's saving grace.

Of Poverty "Save the Children & Women of Pakistan Ministry" is a Christ-centered, mission-oriented, Spirit-filled, Bible-based missionary organization, an outreach of “Amoon Evangelical Ministry of Pakistan,” revolving among the community with the purpose to reach those people with the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, who have still not been reached with the Gospel of truth. A Christian organization in Pakistan, "Save the Children & Women of Pakistan Ministry" is involved in preaching, teaching and helping the less fortunate, children and women, who are enslaved, poor, orphaned, neglected, and even surrendered 29 | The FC July/August 2012

going even in the times of trials, difficulties and hurdles. Our goal is to have one house in Christ's protection, where the widows may live peacefully and rejoice in the blessing of God for a lodging which they may trust to be their own home. We ask that friends, individuals, and ministries pray along with us for this very purpose. It has been exciting to see the children and women growing physically and in the love of Lord Jesus Christ."

"During door to door, house to house, street to street, village to village missions and gospel sending trips, we came across a serious issue with poor families and their children. So "Save the Children & Women of Pakistan Ministry" has agreed, upon receiving and hearing the call, to start doing what God has shown us," says Sabar Mark, founder of the ministry. "We are very grateful to the Lord Jesus Christ, for He has allowed us, and moved us within our spirits, to keep on

Mark continues in saying, "God has also promised in His Word that He will not leave us as orphans (John 14:18), and we are seeing the literal evidence of that promise through the Lord’s grace upon the "Save the Children & Women of Pakistan Ministry." It is our desire that these precious little ones would be brought up to know their Heavenly Father, who is mindful of every sparrow that falls and who has had His hand on them, protecting them and putting into place a plan for each of their lives." The greatest commandments we have been given by God are to love Him with all of our hearts, souls, and minds, and to love others as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40). It is our God-given duty to care for the poor, especially orphans and widows (James 1:27). Some would argue that we should only care for those in our own country, but that is not God's love. True love has no boundaries. Others would argue, here in America, “Why should we help people in third-world countries, they are not our problem, we have poor in our country.” And yes, we should be helping all who we are led to help, but without putting boundaries on

compassion and refusing to help others. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers Galatians 6:10. Dear children of God, our family of believers is not just in our neighborhood, our state or country, our family, God’s children, are worldwide, and they need our help. We help, because we can. Here in the USA $10 might buy a nice meal at a cheap restaurant, but in a third-world country, that same $10 could feed an entire family! Here is a comparative breakdown for you: ● USA $1 is equal to 1.93 Cedes in Ghana, W. Africa ● USA $1 is equal to 56.93 Rupees in India ● USA $1 is equal to 94.63 Rupees in Pakistan ● USA $1 is equal to 13.66 Pesos in Mexico *Rates based on currency conversions available at www.xe.com/ucc/ as of 6/27/2012

In Pakistan, a 40kg bag of rice costs 3200 to 4800 rupees, according to Mark, and a 20kg bag of wheat costs 600 rupees. In translation, an 88-pound bag of rice costs a little over $50 USD, a 44-pound bag of wheat costs about $6 USD. A family in Pakistan can eat well for a week on about $50 USD.

A pastor in Africa once told me, "Every dollar helps to save the life of a child in Africa." At the time, my feeble mind could not grasp what he meant by that statement. But in learning more over the past months and in the research I have been doing, I can see now how even a dollar will save a child, many children, from starvation. Just a dollar. And I shudder to think of how many of my dollars could have saved a life, but did not. Rather than feed a hungry child, I spoiled mine with expensive clothes, $100 shoes, electronic gadgets, Playstations, Nintendos, XBox, all kinds of "stuff" they did not need; while a child in Africa, in Pakistan, and other places of the world died of hunger. Yes, it did hit me square in the face, and hard enough that I resolved to make serious changes in my life and in my spending. What do we spend our dollars on? Food, clothes, education, homes, vehicles to get from point A to point B–sure, and all is acceptable. However, it is when we go beyond, and I mean WAY beyond our needs, where we cross the line and disobey the Lord's commandments to love others, to bless others, to care for the poor. We are blessed, not so we can

See p 33

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buy that new cool gadget that we don’t really need, but so that we will reach out to those who do really need. 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 says: Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! †

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▪ We Need Your Prayers for our work and our community. (Number one need.) ▪ Food for the children and women (Number one material need.) ▪ Clothes, Shoes, Socks for kids. ▪ School project (Pakistan is a country where illiteracy rate in Christians is very high, because education in Pakistan expensive. Mostly people send their children for work not for education.) ▪ Sewing machines (To train women to earn, because mostly women work in others homes for very low income.) ▪ Water cooler ▪ House (A home for the widows and orphans to live in, as they have none.) ▪ Books ▪ Note Books ▪ Pencils ▪ Colours (Color crayons, finger paints for the children) ▪ Sports and Games Things (To have a little fun and joy in being a child.) ▪ Anything which God guides you to give.

Contact: Sabar Mark, Save the Children & Women of Pakistan Ministry (Amoon Evangelical Ministry of Pakistan) Street no: 5, city Pirmahal, District Toba Tek SIngh. Tehseel Kamalia, Punjab, Pakistan. Cell: 0092-344 61 48 696 E-Mail: Sabar Mark: sabarmark@yahoo.com Pastor Babar (Sabar’s brother) aem.babar@yahoo.com Give Online www.hisworkministries.org/pakistan

al harassment rules, but not like today. Both parties are accountable for adultery even in this case. Read Leviticus 19:20-22. She is punished, but not to the usual death penalty. He is required to atone for his sin by a special offering. David Luther finds inspiration to manage diet, training, and daily trials in the great examples he interviews for The FC’s “Spotlight” and in the scriptures. His Bible studies are an inspiring and in-depth look in the Word. Join him as he walks through the Word. Read more of his studies at http://wordtrail.wordpress.com

Reading in Leviticus we learn that the Law is getting tighter and more detailed. All of this legal strictness will be important to Israel. Remember that this is a nation in a childish state, with no concept of right and wrong. Some laws are for health and social needs. Others have a more spiritual significance. It will all be important for this young nation to know. Farming and weaving come under these strict regulations too. Ye shall keep my statutes. Thou shalt not let thy cattle gender with a diverse kind: thou shalt not sow thy field with mingled seed: neither shall a garment mingled of linen and woollen come upon thee Leviticus 19:19. Now the Law ventures into the adultery that involves a servant woman who is compelled by a master or employer into adultery. There were sexu32 | The FC July/August 2012

Read Leviticus 19:23-25. There may be biological reasons for this. Certain fruit trees do not bear good fruit early on. Perhaps this allows the trees to mature in seed producing to assure a continuing crop. In any case, it was enforced by the all seeing God under the law. Ye shall not eat anything with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times Leviticus 19:26. We notice that certain themes are repeated under the law. Repetition is a good teaching method, and it is done a lot in Leviticus. Ye shall not round the corners of your heads, neither shalt thou mar the corners of thy beard. Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD Leviticus 19:27-28. Later we will learn about a special calling for certain Jews. The Nazarites are required to live by even more strict laws

than this. Samson was a Nazarite, and these more strict requirements became significant in his life. But every Jew was required to limit the style of haircuts somewhat as Samson was under the Nazarites oath. Tattoos were also forbidden by this. Do not prostitute thy daughter, to cause her to be a whore; lest the land fall to whoredom, and the land become full of wickedness Leviticus 19:29. You wouldn’t think you would have to tell parents not to put their daughters into prostitution. But they had pimp daddies back then too. It was forbidden in their day though. Read Leviticus 19:30-32. Observing the Sabbath day of rest is reinforced here. Israelis forbidden to approach astrologers, magicians, or spirit mediums who try to contact the dead or false gods. They are required to honor and learn from the older saints who know their God. And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God Leviticus 19:33-34.

“Illegal aliens were allowed and accommodated … They were to be protected, encouraged, and loved…” Illegal aliens were allowed and accommodated in this law; no green card required. They were to be protected, encouraged, and loved, as Israel was once an alien nation in Egypt.

These sins earn the death penalty, cursing parents, adultery, incest, bestiality, and homosexuality. These are sins in the New Testament as well. Paul dealt with such issues in Corinth initially. They were repentant, and Paul commended them in his second letter to them.

Read Leviticus 19:35-37. Merchants are forbidden to cheat customers in weights and measures. God has to step in to prevent every kind of childish cheating you can imagine. His name is now associated with the smoke and tremors that covered the mountain during the time Moses went up to the Lord. His authority is stamped on the word with fear. Read Leviticus 20:1-6. The false gods of this land are offlimits to Israel. But aliens cannot worship these Gods in the borders of Israel either. The death penalty is enforced. Anyone who allows this or joins in is to be killed. God does not see any alternative lifestyles. Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you Leviticus 20:7-8. Even now we are to be sanctified, or different from those who do not believe. The word means set apart, separated from them. Obeying the words of God will do this. We must be Holy. Read Leviticus 20:9-16.

It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus 1 Corinthians 5:1-5. Paul has allowed that this one is cast out of fellowship though, and allowed to live for the hope he may repent and be saved yet. Some sins were not to death under the law either:

It would seem the people even had to enforce chastity on these offenders. Their lives were to be lived out without any potential of having children. This too is harsh punishment, though short of death. Read Leviticus 20:22-24. God has promised to make it easy for Israel to displace the sinful nations that have occupied Canaan before them. He compares this to the land vomiting them out. He warns that this will be his treatment for Israel too, if they sin against their God. They are to be different from the world around them. Read Leviticus 20:25-27. Under the law we could not touch or eat unclean animals or foods. We must be holy in all things, and avoid honoring demonic spirits or false religion. The powers of sin and of the fallen angels are still jealously forbidden by our God. Death is still the penalty for these sins outside of the repentance of sin, and submission to Jesus as our Lord. We cannot return to our old ways, but must remain Holy, with His help. We would not have been able to keep the law any better than Israel did. †

Read Leviticus 20:17-19. This sounds like it may not mean death. Most translations don’t make it clear how serious being “cut off” is. It sounds like the New Testament treatment of exclusion or excommunication. But this was bad for people who were without protection outside the camp of Israel.

Read how bad that was here in the continuation of David’s study in Leviticus... http://wordtrail.wordpress.com/2011/ 04/16/laying-a-foundation/

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Pastor’s Pulpit

From the Editor: This opinion column highlights different pastors from all denominations and walks of life from around the world. If you are a pastor/evangelist who would like a chance to preach from the “Pastor’s Pulpit”, contact the editor.

Freedom In Christ | Galatians 5:1

Pastor Martin Richards Pastor Martin Richards is the International Director for Ghana, West Africa for Prisoners For Christ, a U.S. based prison ministry. He has served with PFC since 2007, but has been in prison ministry for many years. He travels throughout the entire nation of Ghana preaching and ministering to prisoners, seeing many lives saved for Christ. According to PFC, “Pastor Martin is known for his optimism, passion for the Gospel, and deep knowledge of every region in Ghana.” Pastor Martin Richards is also the fiancée of Angela J. Willard Perez, Editor of The Fit Christian.

hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.”

humbly greet you all in the mighty and saving grace of our Lord Jesus. It’s always a delight and a honor and a pleasure to share with you our heritage of freedom in Christ. To better understand the topic, we must ask ourselves, What is freedom? It is the state of being free or at liberty, rather than in confinement or under physical restraint. Often times it is for the freedom that soldiers fight, a teenager becomes happy when he turns 18 because she wants to live a freedom life far from the set of rules laid by parents. Other ways that we have freedom are freedom of speech, religion and assembly. The truth is, freedom has a deeper meaning, and true freedom can be found only in Christ. Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” It is only Jesus who can set us free from sin, death, sickness, despair, envy, and captivity. The Bible says in Isaiah 61:1, “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken34 | The FC July/August 2012

Jesus came to set us all free. He was the only One who could do so. We could not free ourselves free, neither could any other force in Heaven or on Earth. It had to be Jesus. In Him, we are set free as we are made new. 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” In the Gospel of John 8:31-32, “Jesus was therefore saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you abide in my word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’” When Christ came, the whole world was lying in the power of the evil one. In the context of Jesus' promise to "know the truth and the truth shall make you free" is an objection of some who heard Him. They countered that they had never been enslaved to anyone. Besides being historically inaccurate (they had, indeed, served as slaves in Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and many Jews were slaves in Rome as they spoke), they were missing the point. Jesus explained He was talking about their being enslaved to sin (John 8:33-36). There was pride and pretentiousness; hypocrisy and greed; hatred and selfishness. They held to outward

religious form and pomp; self-glory and human tradition, often setting aside God's commandment in favor of their traditions. They were self-righteous and often hard-hearted. Jesus came to free them from such, and us as well. Sin is a cruel slave master which will always kill its faithful servants in the end (Romans 6:23; 5-7; 12-14). While the Jews dealt with these things, the Gentiles were no better off. They were enslaved to false gods (Galatians 4:8). Their degradation seemingly knew no limits (Romans 1:28-32). We must stand guard over our freedom in Christ, else we may well find our liberty eroded and ourselves enslaved again. Peter warns that the final state of enslavement can be even worse than the first, so encourages the faithful not to allow themselves to be led astray by false promises (2 Peter 2:18-22). We are free in Christ, and I declare freedom in Jesus name over sicknesses, diseases, blindness, captivity, prison, enslavement, lameness, sin, and death. May you always continue to remain in your freedom in Christ Jesus. †

Love As God Loves A scripture to help you focus on your Christian life. Meditate and pray on this verse from the Bible and see how it applies to your life, or how you should apply it. Ask the Lord for revelation and understanding on the scriptures and He will grant your request. “Peter fairly exploded with his good news: "It's God's own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you're from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open. The Message he sent to the children of Israel—that through Jesus Christ everything is being put together again—well, he's doing it everywhere, among everyone” Acts 10:34-35 The Message. Angela J. Willard Perez is a mother of five who has learned through the years that she just cannot get through one day without God and prayer. She is the author of several articles and books; she is also the publisher and editor of The Fit Christian magazine.

You may have heard this scripture more often in the King James version rather than in The Message version, but The Message says it loud and clear. Here is the original: “Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” Acts 10:34-35 NKJV.

God loves and accepts everyone, no matter where they are or where they are from, and He expects us to do the same. We are not supposed to judge others by their nationality or the color of their hair, or their skin, or their tattoos, piercings, or anything that is on the outward appearance. God tells us in 1 Samuel 16:7: “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature … For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” And that is how we should see people. Sure, we cannot always determine the heart of another by just looking at them. It takes getting to know them and allowing God to love them through us, which is what we are all called to do, “love one another,” and in time or by the Spirit of discernment, we shall see them as God does, we will see their hearts. And in knowing that, why is it still so hard for some of us to totally accept a person who has a different background, or language, or country, or skin color? We need to take the blinders off so we can purely see one another as sister, as brother, for we are all one family in Christ, and we are all created in the image and likeness of God. And, yes, here I am speaking of myself, but I know I was not alone in my hypocrisy, my racism. Yes, racism. When we discriminate against another because of their race—that is sin! I am tired of people in my country complaining about other people because of their race or nationality or their difficulty or inability in speaking the English language. And yes, I was one of them. But God called me on my sin and I repented, humbly and tearfully, for I did not even know I had it. I am not going to start a political debate here, because that is not what I am talking about. I am talking about love. Do I think “aliens” should be accepted and welcomed in our country? Absolutely! Why? Because we need to love as God loves. Period. For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt Deuteronomy 10:17-19. † God shows no partiality, do you?

What is this scripture saying to you?

Have you shown God’s love to a foreigner today?

Send your comments to editor@fitchristian.com

The FC July/August 2012 | 35

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