Gateway Life | December 2016 by Gateway Church

DECEMBER 2016 SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS

PEACE ON YOUR EARTH

Pastor Robert explains how you can experience peace. p. 14

BE OF GOOD CHEER

FIRST 2017

Making Christmas the most wonderful time of the year. p. 10

Dedicating the first of the year to the Lord. p. 12

CHASING LIGHTS: A NEW TRUTHICAL ADVENTURE A behind-the-scenes look at Gatewayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas musical. p. 16

Leah Niccolls is 24 years old and has been attending Gateway for two years. This watercolor and ink piece was inspired by the way Christ became flesh and came to earth, making a way for everyone to have His light and leave the darkness of their sinful past.

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2016

COMMENTS

WELCOME

PULSE OUTREACH

BE A LIGHT Things to do in your community to share the love of Jesus. F E AT U R E S

BE OF GOOD CHEER

FIRST 2017

PEACE ON YOUR EARTH

CHASING LIGHTS: A NEW TRUTHICAL ADVENTURE

Making Christmas the most wonderful time of the year.

Dedicating the first of the year to the Lord.

How you can experience peace.

A behind-the-scenes look at Gateway’s Christmas musical.

SONG STORY

David & Alena Moore’s “139”

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ACTIVITIES

THE INTERSECTION

PROFILE – WALKER BEACH

DOWNLOAD THE GATEWAY LIFE APP AND READ GATEWAY LIFE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Now available for iPhone, Android, iPad, and Kindle Fire. For more information, visit gatewaylifemag.com.

OUR VISION is to see people saved, healed, set free, discipled, equipped, empowered, and serving. Our mission is to help each person at Gateway be whom God created them to be—believing in Jesus, belonging to family, becoming a follower, and building God’s kingdom.

For Gateway’s complete mission statement, visit mission.gatewaypeople.com.

W elcome

WELCOME to GATEWAY LIFE I’M OFTEN A LITTLE CONFUSED AROUND

Christmas time. It’s not that I don’t know what time of year it is, but rather I’m confused about what we should be doing. Growing up in South Africa, Christmas was a summer experience, which meant there was no snow, no need for warm comfort food, no frosty mornings, no hot chocolate, and no crackling fires. Instead, Christmas was filled with outdoor activities, a good braai (South African barbecue), long sunny days, and hot temperatures. Yet, there are some similarities between South Africa and Texas.

gateway life gatewaylifemag.com Thomas Miller, Senior Pastoral Oversight Lawrence Swicegood, Editor-in-Chief project management Tracey Schwellinger

2 DECEMBER 2016

The Christmas trees in South Africa are sprayed with fake snow, and there is a particular beetle that comes out during this time of year that locals call the “Christmas beetle.” Here in Texas, many people also spray some form of fake snow on Christmas trees, and this same beetle emerges in warm temperatures, but it’s called a “June bug.” The other shared focus during Christmastime in these two countries, and many others around the world, is our love and gratitude for the gift of Jesus. Culturally we all have our own traditions that let us know it’s the Christmas season. These varied traditions, smells, and foods all help us get in the festive spirit, but the one transcendent reality that starts and finishes all this varied celebration is the gift of Jesus.

editorial Stacy Burnett, Managing Editor Daniel Hopkins, Senior Writer/Editor Katie Smith, Staff Writer/Editor Sydnie Shreffler, Staff Writer/Editor Georgette Shuler, Copy Editor photography Adam Fish, Staff Photographer Cory Hale, Contributing Photographer Abrahanny Rodriguez, Contributing Photographer

I hope this issue of Gateway Life helps you get into the Christmas spirit. If you’re looking for ways to make new Christmas traditions with your family, check out Pastor Phillip Hunter’s article (page 10), and we have some great ideas about how you can reach your community during the holidays (page 8). If you look forward to Gateway’s annual Christmas production, you’ll want to read our behind-the-scenes story about this year’s new Christmas musical, Chasing Lights (page 16). This issue is jam-packed with inspiring testimonies, encouraging articles, and fun activities for everyone! Whether your Christmas is filled with barbecue or turkey, snow or outdoor swimming, long summer days or frosty cold nights, the unifying and outrageous gift of Jesus reminds us all we are one—one body, one Savior, one focus to tell others about Him, one baptism, and one King. In this season, I challenge us to be known by our unity and love for the One who made this celebration possible. May God richly bless you and your family this Christmas, as you remember the One.

Allan Kelsey Associate Senior Pastor

art Shane Dennehey, Creative Director Tim Lautensack, Art Director/Designer Justin Miller, Art Director/Designer Katrina Sirmon, Production Designer Jules Oravetz, Production Designer David Phillips, Print Coordinator

GATEWAYPEOPLE

All responses taken from Gateway Church social media. Send us your story, testimony, or feedback on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or email us at life@gatewaypeople.com.

“Last December, I was diagnosed with Chiari malformation, a brain disorder that has caused excruciating headaches for months. I’ve had a lot of friends at Gateway praying for me, and I recently had a second MRI and met with a neurosurgeon. He just looked at me in complete confusion and said my brain is perfect and it has been perfectly healed.” Brandi Moses | via email

“I JUST CAME ACROSS THE VIDEO OF ‘REVELATION SONG,’ AND I WANT TO SAY THAT IT IS TRULY A BLESSING. I AM ONLY JUST BEGINNING TO LEARN TO SING AND WORSHIP, AND THIS SONG RESONATES WITHIN MY SOUL. I WANT THANK EVERYONE WHO WORKS BEHIND THE SCENES TO MAKE THINGS LIKE THIS POSSIBLE!” Lee Roy Robert Charles | via email

Say

WHAT?!

Defining Gateway Church Lingo

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

MARRIAGE 911

Marriage Challenge meets every week at most campus offices to provide scriptural equipping, encouragement, and prayer support to anyone whose marriage is hurting or in crisis. No appointments are needed.

Marriage 911 is a 13-week small group program for couples seeking healing for their marriage in the aftermath of infidelity, including emotional infidelity, physical infidelity, pornography, and sexual addiction.

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PUL SE

Men’s Brigade

Men’s Brigade serves widows and single mothers by making repairs around their homes. Men’s Brigade

“EMBRACE GRACE SAVED MY LIFE AND SAVED MY SON’S LIFE, AND THERE’S NOTHING MORE THAT I COULD EVER ASK FOR.” Madeline Martinez

Embrace Grace

Local Outreach at City Church International

“IT’S AWESOME TO SEE THE BODY OF CHRIST WORKING LIKE IT’S SUPPOSED TO, HELPING THOSE IN NEED.” Elaine Aranda | via Facebook

Local Outreach at City Church International

HIGH FIVE

JAMES MORRIS

PASTOR, FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

“I ALWAYS LOVE THE INTERNATIONAL WORSHIP ON OUTREACH WEEKEND. THE LANGUAGES ARE SO BEAUTIFUL AND I THINK IT WILL BE THE SAME THING IN HEAVEN.”

“Outreach Weekend is one of my favorite weekends at Gateway Church. The international worship leaders that combine with our own worship teams at all the campuses make me feel like we are in heaven worshipping together.”

Melissa White Holland | via Facebook

Lena Nelson Dooley | via Facebook

FAVORITE WAY TO RELAX? Farming, hunting, working the land, star gazing, wake surfing, and napping. WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? A wilderness man who lived off of the land. I love that stuff. In my mind, it is a blast to live like that. WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE SUPERHERO? Batman. We don’t actually watch Batman at our house, but somehow my little four-year-old, Parker, is obsessed with him, and it would completely devastate him if he ever found out I answered differently. WHAT IS SOMETHING NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT YOU? Growing up, I had a terrible speech impediment. The majority of people had no idea what I was saying. It wasn’t until later in life, and with much training, that it got better. Even now I am regularly asked where I am from because I don’t sound Texan—my speech therapist didn’t have a Texan accent. WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST FASCINATING? -- The growth of deer antlers every year. -- How much we are dependent on technology these days. -- How much easier it is to hear the voice of the Lord when you are alone in nature. -- How there is always new revelation and understanding of God’s Word, and we will never comprehend all that is written in it. -- How I thought I understood love, but after marriage I understood love so much more. But now, after having kids, I really understand love to an even deeper level. For more about Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

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IN RESPONSE TO KAIROS

“I CAME IN ONE WAY AND LEFT ANOTHER WAY. THANK YOU, JESUS!” KAIROS attendee | via email

“I have never felt the presence of God so strongly as I did at KAIROS. It’s amazing how in just two days I feel alive and renewed like I have never felt.” KAIROS attendee | via email

“About a year ago, I went to the doctor because my foot was swelling, and after several doctor appointments, multiple tests, labs, and x-rays, everything indicated lupus. The doctor put me on medicine and steroids to relieve the pain from the swelling, but nothing seemed to help. That Saturday, I was at service and went to the altar for prayer. The presence of God was so strong! I went back to the doctor the following week for another test, and the doctor said the results showed no sign of lupus. I was healed!” Cherry Hanes | via email

Samson and Jennifer Khurshid | via Facebook

“IN JUNE, I RECEIVED SERMON SERIES TRANSCRIPTS FOR FREQUENCY AND THE GOD I NEVER KNEW. BOTH SETS OF TRANSCRIPTS ARE A CONTINUAL HELP IN GROWING TOWARD THE LORD. AS A RESULT, I HAVE RECEIVED JESUS AS MY SAVIOR AND HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED!” Sherman W. | handwritten letter from Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lynaugh Unit

“I HAVE BEEN SOAKING UP THE GATEWAY CHURCH SERMON ARCHIVES AS WELL AS WATCHING SERVICES ONLINE. THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE WORKED TO PUT THESE RECORDINGS ONLINE SO EVEN A PHILADELPHIA RESIDENT CAN EXPERIENCE GATEWAY CHURCH!” Lindalee Stimer | via Facebook

During Outreach Weekend, we had 43 international worship leaders from 15 different countries lead worship at all six of our campuses. • At the Gateway Kids Mix One Night, 14 buses took fifth and sixth graders to the Grand Prairie Campus. 538 kids attended and they ate 1608 slices of pizza. • 3,989 people attended Gateway Conference from 876 churches, 44 states, and 49 countries. • At the Gateway Conference After Party: 2,100 truffles, 20 pounds of espresso beans, 2,000 donut hole skewers, 1,500 bags of roasted almonds, and 2,000 churros were served. • Gateway’s new Christmas production, Chasing Lights: A New Truthical Adventure, includes parody lyrics from 38 different Broadway and film classics. The 63 cast members rehearsed for 110.5 hours before opening night. More than 330 costumes were created and 8 wigs were purchased.

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PUL SE

“About two months ago, we had an accident and our only car was a total loss. Our insurance check wasn’t sufficient, and we weren’t prepared to purchase a car. As we prayed and turned this seemingly impossible situation over to God, we felt we should apply for a car through Gateway’s car donation ministry. We were trusting God to help us find the right car. And He did! This gift is such an encouragement and reminder of God’s faithfulness, and it’s so special coming from our sweet Gateway family!”

Outreach

Be a Light

For some, this is the most wonderful time of the year, yet for others, the holidays can be difficult. Jesus’ birth is a joyful reminder of God’s love for us no matter what we’re going through, so this Christmas, whether you have a few dollars or a few hours, we encourage you to be a light by sharing Christmas joy with others!

Here are 25 ways to be a light in your community this Christmas. 01 Gather your family and friends to go caroling at a local nursing home or hospital.

Contact your local library to see if you can help read or act out a Christmas story for a children’s event.

Go through your home to find gently used clothing or items you don’t use or need any longer, then donate them to a family in need or a local charity.

Bake some scrumptious treats and give them to your neighbors.

Give small gifts, cards, or treats to service providers. This is a great time of year to let police, fire fighters, teachers, trash collectors, postal carriers, and others know how much you appreciate their service.

Invite your neighbors over to make a holiday craft together.

Carry spare change or extra cash. You never know where you’ll see a Salvation Army bucket or someone the Lord might place in your path to bless.

08 Invite your friends and family to Gateway’s Christmas production, Chasing Lights. For more information, visit gatewaychristmas.com.

09 Buy gift cards to major retail stores and donate them to Gateway’s Single Parent Families ministry so single parents can give their children a special Christmas. For more information, visit singleparents.gatewaypeople.com

8 DECEMBER 2016

10 Bring flowers, send a card, or buy a cup of coffee for someone who lost a loved one or friend this past year.

11 Cook a nice meal for someone who is extra busy during the holiday season and bring it to them.

Handwrite a letter to an old friend. Handwriting a letter takes intentional time and effort, and your friend will appreciate the sentiment.

14 Bring a warm, yummy breakfast to the office to share with your coworkers.

Have a couple of extra signed Christmas cards handy when you go out. If you see someone who could use a smile, give them a card. If you’re really generous, include a gift card in it.

15 Purchase someone’s fuel for them. The holidays often mean extra travel expenses, so buying someone’s gas may be a great gift.

Take a day to serve at a children’s hospital, women’s shelter, homeless shelter, or nursing home with your family, friends, or Gateway Group. For other ideas on where to serve this season, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com.

17 Create a care package and send it to a member of the armed forces. For more information visit uso.org.

18 Ask someone how you can pray for them during the holiday season. Then follow up later to see how they are doing.

Turn social media into a place of positivity! Pick a few friends and post a sweet holiday memory with them or something nice about them.

Gather some friends and family to help package Christmas meals for Food for the Soul or help sort boxes at the Operation Christmas Child distribution center.

Adopt a family at a local public school through Gateway’s mentoring program.

21 For more information, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com.

For more information, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com.

25 22 Give a gift card or small holiday treat to a cashier or retail worker. They often work long hours and deal with difficult customers during the holidays.

23 Offer to help an elderly person shop for Christmas gifts or decorate their home.

24 Invite someone over for dinner. There are a lot of people who may be alone for the holiday season and might need a friendly face and a meal.

Say thank you, open doors, or wish people a merry Christmas. Small gestures like this can really make someone’s day!

What other ways are you showing people the love of Christ this Christmas? Share them with us on social media! GATEWAYPEOPLE GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 9

BE OF GOOD CHEER

Making Christmas the most wonderful time of the year. BY

It’s

“

Phillip Hunter

the most wonderful time of the year. With the kids jingle belling and everyone telling you be of good cheer. There’ll be parties for hosting…” And I’d better stop because you might already be overwhelmed by all that is filling your calendar the next few weeks until Christmas. Between music programs, school and work parties, church events, and shopping for presents, the “the happiest season of all” can be the most overwhelming season of all. In our house, we start playing Christmas music the moment the weather drops below 90 degrees. In fact, I can practically hear Andy Williams singing “It’s the Most

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Wonderful Time of the Year” as I write this article. My favorite lyric says, “Hearts will be glowing when loved ones are near.” It’s the memories we make with our loved ones that make Christmas so special. As a father of five children, I want to make memories with my kids, but I also want to make sure I teach them the true meaning of Christmas. My wife and I have become very intentional about planning fun and meaningful activities with our children to lead up to Christmas. Let me share with you some ways we celebrate as a family that might inspire you to create new family traditions:

FUN TRADITIONS

MEANINGFUL TRADITIONS

1. DECORATING THE HOUSE – Don’t ever let this be an event mom does all by herself. Make a night of it by turning on Christmas music and baking some cookies. You want the house to smell like Christmas. Our kids love pulling out the decorations they haven’t seen since last year, and we decorate the tree and the house as a family. We plan it for the weekend after Thanksgiving, which is when the Christmas season begins for us.

1. CELEBRATE ADVENT – The purpose of celebrating Advent is to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. We purchase an Advent devotional and Advent candles, and my wife makes an Advent wreath for our kitchen table. For us, it has become a way to purpose in our hearts and our kids that Christmas is all about Jesus. Each night before bed, we light the candles, we sing a Christmas song, we read the devotional, and when completed, we mark our calendar. We have found this slows down the frenzy of Christmas, it teaches our children patience as they wait for the birth of Jesus, and it brings us together as a family each night. Our schedules are busy, so sometimes we miss a few nights, but we are intentional about doing it as much as possible.

2. SUBURB EXPRESS – Watch the Polar Express with your kids, then just when they think they’re going to bed, call everyone to the front door in their pajamas. Hand them a golden ticket and tell them it’s for the Suburb Express. Before the kids get into the car, stamp their ticket, hand them a hot chocolate, and holler “all aboard” for the Suburb Express. Take them on a drive to see Christmas lights. We take our kids through Grapevine and then swing by the Gaylord Texan to see the Christmas decorations and lights. 3. REINDEER GAMES – According to the song, Rudolph was never able to “play in any reindeer games.” That’s too bad because they sure are fun! Hold your own Christmas Olympics by playing Christmas-related games. You can look online for ideas, or make up some of your own. If you want to make it competitive, make a reindeer games trophy and display it in the house for the winner. In our home, the winner gets a large peppermint chocolate chip milkshake from Chick-fil-A.

2. THE NATIVITY – Every year, my mother-in-law has all the grandchildren reenact the nativity. She gives costumes to each kid and the roles change each year. Last year, I was the donkey who Mary rode into Bethlehem. Our extended family has had a lot of babies in the past 10 years, so we always have a new baby Jesus. I love this tradition because we always do it before gathering around the Christmas tree and opening presents. 3. BETTER TO GIVE THAN RECEIVE – Every year we teach our children to buy a gift for another child in need and pray for them. If they don’t have money, they are able to let us buy the gift for another child that we would have bought for them. There are many ways to do this. You can pack a gift box for Operation Christmas Child or send gifts through Compassion International. We adopted a little girl from China this past year, so one of the gifts from the kids was buying diapers for children in orphanages in China. This year, our family is buying a sheep through World Vision to donate to a family. Whatever you do, be intentional about creating a tradition with your kids of giving to others in need. I know you probably have some fantastic traditions as well, but if you are looking for new ways to make memories with your family this Christmas, I encourage you to make some of these your own. I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and you find this time of year to be the most wonderful season of all. GL

The Hunter family

Phillip Hunter is the pastor of Gateway Men at the Southlake Campus. He and his wife, Shelly, have five children—Atley and Avery (age 9 [born on Christmas day]), Canon (age 8), Champ (age 6), Jubilie (age 21 months).

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2 0 1 7 DEDICATING THE FIRST OF THE YEAR TO THE LORD

HERE AT GATEWAY, the first of each new year includes opportunities to help you put God first in your life. Whether you’ve been at Gateway for years or you’ve only been with us for a short time, there are many ways to participate and honor Him with the first of your new year. God has great things planned for 2017, and we’re excited to jump into all He has for us.

FIRST CONFERENCE January 1–4 All Gateway Campuses Gateway’s First Conference is the perfect way to start the new year! We’re excited to welcome Reverend Franklin Graham, Pastor John Hagee, Dr. Henry Cloud, and Dr. Ravi Zacharias as our special guest speakers. They will encourage and challenge you to seek God’s vision for you and your family in 2017. You won’t want to miss this powerful time of worship, the Word, and ministry.

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CREATED TO BE | A GATEWAY SERIES Begins December 31–January 1 and Continues Through January 21–22 Who were you created to be? At Gateway, our mission is to help each person become whom God created them to be—believing in Jesus, belonging to a family, becoming a follower, and building God’s kingdom. In this exciting new series, Pastor Robert will explain each part of the mission statement and his heart to see people growing in Christ. Whether you’re a new Christian or you’ve been following Jesus for years, the practical examples and powerful testimonies in this series will challenge and inspire you on your journey to becoming whom God created you to be.

CREATED TO BE | 28-DAY DEVOTIONAL January 1–28 This devotional is designed to help you discover all God has for you and live out your God-given purpose. Each day is written by a Gateway pastor and includes stories, examples, powerful insights, and practical steps to bring you closer to the Lord and His purpose for you. Each devotional includes a worship CD featuring original songs from Gateway Worship. Pick up your free devotional during weekend services December 23–24 and December 31–January 1.

The audio of the devotional will be available for free at devotions.gatewaypeople.com beginning January 1. You may also download songs from the Created to Be worship album on iTunes. Additional copies of the Created to Be 28-day devotional can be purchased at Gateway Bookstore.

21-DAY CHURCHWIDE FAST January 1–21 Sometimes after a busy season, we need to slow down, rest, and set our focus on the Lord again. Realigning our priorities with God’s heart and making time to listen to His voice are important tasks that often take the back burner, and that’s why, as a church, we are setting aside 21 days to fast and pray. Please pray about how God may want you to fast. If your health allows, consider fasting one meal a day or perhaps a certain type of food. Or you may want to prayerfully consider fasting things that can often consume a great amount of time in your daily life, like television, nonessential email, or social media. We encourage you to ask the Lord what He may want you to give up for the 21 days to fully dedicate time to reading God’s Word, praying, and listening to His direction for your life, your family, or the church in the upcoming year. GL

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

CREATED TO BE A GATEWAY SERIES December 31–January 22 FIRST CONFERENCE January 1–4 All Gateway Campuses CREATED TO BE 28-DAY DEVOTIONAL January 1–28

S M T W T F S 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JAN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

21-DAY CHURCHWIDE FAST January 1–21 15 16 17 18 29 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

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Peace on Your Earth HOW YOU CAN EXPERIENCE PEACE

LOVE THE STORY OF JESUS’ BIRTH because it does much more than simply tell a story. It reminds us we can experience peace no matter what we’re going through. In fact, peace on earth is the main focus of the angel’s announcement of Jesus’ birth in Luke 2. Here’s what the multitude of angels say in verse 14 once the announcement is made: “‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’” I have a question for you as we enter the Christmas season. Do you have peace on earth? Are you going through a struggle? Maybe it’s a financial issue or a struggle with your health or in your marriage. Maybe it’s a struggle with a child or your job or you’re just struggling with life. Did you know the suicide rate is higher at Christmas than it is during any other time of the year? It’s supposed to be a joyful time, but the enemy does everything he can to capitalize on our emotions during Christmas, and I believe it goes back all the way to Jesus’ birth. Think about Jesus’ mother, Mary. Most people would say her life was going well on the day He was born. Yet here she was, a young teenager married to a much older man she probably didn’t know very well, giving birth to a baby in a barn far away from home. She didn’t have any friends or family nearby, and the family she did have most likely rejected her because of her pregnancy. I want you to be honest: Would you have believed her if she told you she became pregnant by the Holy Spirit before she was married? Things weren’t

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going well for her, and yet God was doing something amazing in her life, and she had peace. Maybe things aren’t going so well for you either, but here’s what I want you to know: You can have peace on earth because Jesus came, and He is the Prince of Peace. A few years ago, Debbie and I took a weeklong vacation to Colorado where we rented a little cabin by a river. I was looking forward to some time off for a few days, and I remember thinking Thank You, God. One week with nothing to think about! I got a call from Pastor Tom Lane later that day about an emergency back at the church. I ended up having to take care of things at the church every day of the trip. One day, I took my Bible and a little chair to the river to spend time with the Lord, and I told Him I just wanted one week of peace. He said, “Stop complaining! You’re in a battle and you chose to be on the front line. But in the battle, will you take your Bible and chair no matter where you are and sit by a river and talk to Me? Even if there is no peace in the world around you, you can have peace in your heart.” Then the Lord took me to Psalm 42:1. It says, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.” I love to watch and study deer for long periods of time. Something I’ve learned from years of doing this is there’s only one time they pant, and it’s when they’ve been

“You can have peace on earth because Jesus came, and He is the Prince of Peace.” chased by an enemy. That’s exactly what was happening in David’s life when he wrote this Psalm. He was being chased by his son Absalom, who had become his enemy. As I sat by the river and read the verse again, God said, “Son, you need me just like a deer needs water, because the enemy is chasing you right now and you better get with me.” I needed peace on earth, and if you can relate, here is how you can have peace on earth too.

RECOGNIZE YOU’RE IN A BATTLE. In Psalm 42:3, David was on the run and he was going through a tough time. He says, “My tears have been my food day and night, while they continually say to me, ‘Where is your God?’” Now, who do you think is asking David this question? It’s the enemy. Have you ever heard this question? Satan never takes a break, not even at Christmas. He’s constantly reminding us of bad memories and people we’ve lost. It’s amazing to me that Satan will even take the death

of loved ones and torment us with them, and he does it a lot during the holidays. We need to remember the battle is real, and it’s taking place in the spiritual realm so it must be fought in the spirit. What’s the enemy’s best tactic? He lies to us, and he’s good at it. In fact, he’s had 10,000 years of practice.

STOP LISTENING TO YOURSELF AND START TALKING TO YOURSELF. This may sound funny, but let me tell you what I mean by it. We have to stop listening to our souls (mind, will, and emotions) and start allowing our spirits to do the talking. Our souls get hung up on our feelings and circumstances, and they often fall for the enemy’s lies. Look at Psalm 42:5 and watch how David’s spirit starts talking to his soul: “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.” Our souls must be quiet, our spirits must rule over our souls, and we must rebuke the enemy.

GET WITH GOD. The best way to strengthen your spirit is by spending time with God. Take a look at Psalm 43:4. After all his time in exile and being chased into the wilderness, David writes: “Then I will go to the altar of God, to God my exceeding joy; and on the harp I will praise You, O God, my God.” I think David realized he was missing the presence of God, so he began to praise God and spend time in His presence. I’ll never forget the time a lady in our church told me about Christmas in her house when she was growing up. She said it was the worst time of year because her father was an alcoholic. As an adult, she dreaded Christmas every year because of the flood of memories, but then something happened. She decided, “I can’t have another bad Christmas.” She got her Bible and played some worship music and began to spend time in God’s presence. She asked Him where He was all those years growing up, and He began to show her all the ways He protected her and her family and how He saved her. Now she has great Christmases. I’m telling you, Christmas is the most joyous time of the year and you can have peace on your earth, and it comes from the Prince of Peace. No matter what battle or struggle you’re facing, spend time in His presence and you will have peace in your heart. GL This article was adapted from Pastor Robert’s 2007 Christmas message, “Peace On Your Earth,” and is available online at gatewaypeople.com/PeaceOnYourEarth.

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A behind-the-scenes look at Gateway’s Christmas musical. by Katie Smith

ARLY ONE SATURDAY MORNING IN OCTOBER, the Gateway Auditorium hums with life. There are hugs and shouts across the room, and many are wearing nametags with movie or musical characters written on them. It’s the first rehearsal for the cast of Chasing Lights, Gateway’s highly anticipated Christmas musical. Knowing this year’s musical will be different from Truthical, the show we’ve performed the past couple of years, the 63-member cast—a mixture of old faces and new—can barely contain their excitement. Cast members were introduced to one another and the Gateway Performing Arts team. Together they will bring each part of the show to reality. Set designs and stage plans appear on the screens and a keyboard sits in the corner—both

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subtle reminders of the amount of work ahead. But before all the work begins, Pastor Walker Beach, the executive pastor of Gateway Worship Production, opens with a few words. Reading from John 21, he shares the story about the time Simon Peter and friends went fishing and didn’t catch anything all night. Then Jesus showed up and told them to throw their net over the right side of their boat. So they cast their nets again, this time on the right side, but they couldn’t draw in the net because there were so many fish in it. “In the same way, productions like this are Gateway’s way of throwing the nets over the other side of the boat,” continued Pastor Walker. “Pastor Robert has said many times, ‘Some people won’t come to a regular church service, but they’ll come see a show.’ So if you’ve been inviting people to

“OUR HOPE IS THAT CHASING LIGHTS CREATES CONVERSATIONS, PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES TO INVITE PEOPLE TO CHURCH, AND ULTIMATELY, REACHES THE LOST,” SAYS PASTOR WALKER. “THIS IS WHY WE DO THESE PRODUCTIONS.” church and they just won’t come, cast the net on the other side and try inviting them to this show.” The annual Christmas production is one of Gateway’s highest attended weekends all year and the time when a great number of people make first-time decisions for Christ. Pastor Walker even shared that he was saved during a production like this when he was younger. He and the other staff then tell the cast they aren’t a part of this production to show off skills or highlight talents but to tell a life-changing story in hopes of bringing more people to the Lord. ABOUT CHASING LIGHTS Chasing Lights follows a character named Chase Adams, an ambitious go-getter trying to make his way in show business. As he’s looking for one big idea that will land his name bright in lights, he stumbles into the “Theatre of Life,” a place where what you believe is put on display. Chase meets a broom-wielding stage hand, Gil, and is taken through a whirlwind of song and dance that shows him the

true story of Christmas. Chase and Gil dive into their pasts, sharing their fears and failures, and Chase ends up with an age-old decision: whether to keep pursuing control and fame or surrender to a God who has better plans for him than he could imagine. This show has a similar setting to Gateway’s previous show, Truthical, and is brimming with parodies from even more of your favorite Broadway and film classics. “We’re incorporating some special technical effects into the show that we’ve never done before,” Pastor Walker says. “Some of them are even fairly new to the industry.” With Broadway-quality stage design and effects, quirky comedic moments, show-stopping medleys, and a remarkably talented cast of singers and dancers, this show is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. As with previous Gateway Christmas musicals, it’s the stirring characters and stunning presentation of the gospel message that are sure to make a difference in people’s lives. “Our hope is that Chasing Lights creates conversations, provides opportunities to invite people to church, and ultimately, reaches the lost,” says Pastor Walker. “This is why we do these productions.” GL Chasing Lights: A New Truthical Adventure runs December 15, 16, 17, and 18 live at the Southlake Campus and will be simulcast to the other Gateway campuses. For times and locations, visit gatewaychristmas.com. Admission is free, but you must reserve a seat to be guaranteed admission at the Southlake Campus. Reserve your seat today at gatewaychristmas.com. (Reservations are not required for other campuses.)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 17

SONG STORY

“

139 DAVID AND ALENA MOORE’S

”

by Daniel Hopkins

DAVID AND ALENA MOORE’S “139” is a song steeped in both difficult circumstances and redemption. It came to David quickly one day a few years ago, and when he played it for Alena it stayed with her in a way only David’s best songs do. “He showed me the song and it resonated with how I relate to the Lord—that my identity is in Him,” says Alena. “I found myself singing it around the house while I was vacuuming and cleaning. I was constantly singing it.” In terms of melody alone, the song is extremely memorable, but what resonated with Alena is that it addresses the uncertainty we have sometimes when we think about how God sees us. “At some point in everyone’s walk, whether you’re walking with the Lord or not, you’ve had the questions, ‘Does God know me; does He love me; does He see me?’” she says. “139” answers those questions in the chorus with a question taken straight from Psalm 139, where it gets its title: “Where can I run from Your love? You’ve searched me and know all my heart.”

18 DECEMBER 2016

It’s this encouragement that has so many people identifying with the song. As of this fall, “139” is a top-10 radio single, receiving airplay on Christian radio stations around the country. But the song wasn’t just written for the encouragement of others—the redemptive theme comes from a very difficult, personal place. “We’ve been through seasons when we had trouble getting pregnant and trouble with miscarriages,” says Alena. “Through worshipping, we’ve found strength in God’s presence and each other.” Worship has become one of the fundamental parts of David and Alena’s marriage. Whether it’s around the house or on a Gateway platform their voices intertwine in harmony. “I feel encouraged when I’m leading knowing that she’s there with me and that we’re carrying the burden together,” says David. The song takes a dramatic turn at the end of the chorus with the lyric “If I make my bed in hell / You lead me home.” “In some way, we can all relate to that statement,” he says. “Sometimes

we walk through hellish situations and it feels intense. Scripture shows how the grace of God extends to wherever you are. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done or how far gone you are, as soon as we turn back to God, He’s already running toward us.” This theme is catching on, and it seems to offer peace to people in different stages of life. “I’ve had feedback from people saying that they’ve had a spouse pass away and they played the song at the funeral,” says Alena. “I’ve heard of brides walking down the aisle to the song, and I’ve heard new moms saying they listened to the song during labor. I’ve had so many people tell me they used to feel ugly and unattractive or they just felt bad about themselves. We’ve all struggled with those types of thoughts, but the line that says ‘I will praise You for the way I’m made’ is just an act of faith to say, ‘God I thank You for how I’m made.’” GL “139” is on Gateway Worship Voices, available at the Gateway Bookstore and on iTunes.

GATEWAY SOUTHLAKE

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYPEOPLE GATEWAY FREEDOM INFO NIGHT

Wednesday, Dec 21 | 7:15 pm | Ministry Center Come learn more about how to serve in Freedom classes, groups, and sessions. Contact: Elizabeth Settle, 817.552.7368, freedomslk@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY KIDS PAID & VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

Help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them. We have part-time paid and volunteer positions available. Contact: Anne Hardin, 817.552.7475, kidsjobs@gatewaypeople.com

HOLIDAY SCHEDULES

The Gateway Southlake staff would like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! During the holiday season, weekly schedules may change. For more information, visit gatewaypeople.com. CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

1st Saturday of Every Month | 4:00 pm | Classroom 2D This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Janice Scott, 817.552.7483, ctvslk@gatewaypeople.com

FINANCIAL FITNESS

Sunday, Dec 4 | 12:00 pm | Classroom 1C This monthly, personal coaching event is for anyone who desires one-on-one assistance with their finances and is a great follow-up to any of our Gateway Stewardship classes. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Jacquelyn Bushnell, 817.552.7428, stewardship@gatewaypeople.com

BECOMING ONE (PREMARRIAGE CLASS)

Sundays, Jan 8–Feb 19 12:30 pm | Classroom 2C

Whether you’re pre-engaged, engaged, or newly married, come learn what the Bible has to say about marriage! Cost: $25 per couple. Register at marriage.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Amanda Wise, 817.552.7578, premarriageslk@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 19

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY EQUIP

Wednesdays & Weekends Beginning Jan 11 This winter, in addition to our regular classes, we are excited to announce our newest class, The Kingdom of God Is at Hand. We also have a Jewish Roots/Havdalah Fellowship class! Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Karen Hageman, 817.552.7462, equip@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY OUTREACH MINISTRY TRIP

Wednesday–Sunday, Apr 5–9 | Shreveport, Louisiana

Join us as we partner with The Hub to minister to and serve those in poverty. For more information and to apply by February 1, visit trips.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Sarah Weaver, outreachslk@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS PARKING TEAM

We are looking for people who love to be outside and want to serve. Bring your sunscreen and help us welcome people to the Southlake Campus! Contact: Sarah Weaver, 817.552.3774, serveslk@gatewaypeople.com

20 DECEMBER 2016

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

YOUNG ADULTS ONE NIGHT

Tuesday, Dec 6 | 7:00 pm

GATEWAY GROUPS

Join all of Gateway Young Adults at one location for an extended time of worship, teaching, and fun. We’ll have live music and food trucks after the service. Contact: Katie Willis, 817.552.5871, youngadults@gatewaypeople.com

END-OF-YEAR CONTRIBUTIONS

To receive a tax credit from the IRS, all 2016 contributions must be received or postmarked by Saturday, December 31. You can bring them to the Gateway Ministry Headquarters (500 S Nolen, Suite 300) or any of our six campuses before 5:00 pm on Friday, December 30. Contact: Accounting Revenue Team, 817.328.1000, contributions@gatewaypeople.com

THE SCHOOL OF TECH ARTS

Spring Semester Begins in January

Gain real-world experience with Pro Tools certification courses; ProPresenter training; live audio, video, and stage lighting courses; and more. For details and to register, visit schooloftecharts.com. Contact: Vivian Smith, 817.552.5884, info@schooloftecharts.com

THE KING’S UNIVERSITY | SPRING ENROLLMENT

The King’s University offers various undergraduate and graduate degree programs that allow you to gain practical ministry experience within Gateway Church. Apply today at www.tku.edu. Contact: Tyler Maxey, 817.722.1720, admissions@tku.edu

Friday, Jan 6 | 7:30 pm | Auditorium

SLK

Kick off the new year with us as we welcome Paul Wilbur for a concert! Paul is an internationally acclaimed worship artist, song writer, pastor, and teacher. Preservice prayer begins at 7:00 pm. Habrá Traducción en Español. Contact: Oli Snyder, 817.552.7452, jewish@gatewaypeople.com

WATER BAPTISMS

Jan 14–15 | After Each Weekend Service

SERVICE TIMES Begins Jan 29

DAL

MESSIANIC SERVICE

LOCATIONS &

SLK DAL GRP

We would like to celebrate with you as you publicly declare your decision to surrender your life to the Lord. Register at baptism.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Janice Scott, 817.552.7483, baptism@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS WINTER CAMP

Jr. High | Jan 27–29 Sr. High | Feb 3–5 Lakeview Camp & Retreat Center | Waxahachie, Texas Join us for a unique, distraction-free chance to experience God and grow deeper in your friendships. For more details and to register, visit students.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Joy Cromer, 817.552.7375, students@gatewaypeople.com

The Gateway Groups semester ends in December and will start up again in the new year! If you would like to join or lead a group, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Vanessa Daniels, 817.552.5803, groups@gatewaypeople.com

WORSHIP TEAM ACADEMY February–May

SLK FRS GRP NFW

Worship Team Academy is our exciting 12-week, video-based curriculum (for piano, guitar, or vocals) to train musicians in worship theology and musical craft. For more information, visit wta.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kristy Luth, 817.552.7611, worshipteamacademy@gatewaypeople.com

CREATIVE ARTS CLASSES

Feb 13–Apr 3

SLK

Our Performing Arts classes (acting, dancing, and singing) and Visual Arts classes (drawing, film, photography, and songwriting) meet once a week. Cost: $25 per six-week session. Email to register. Contact: London Wright, 817.328.2018, creativearts@gatewaypeople.com

PINK IMPACT 2017

Friday–Saturday, May 12–13 Fort Worth Convention Center We are excited to welcome Lysa TerKeurst, Dr. Henry Cloud, and Sheryl Brady along with Kari Jobe Carnes and many more to our next Pink Impact! Secure your seat before the Early Bird discount expires on February 12. Register today at pinkimpact.com. Contact: Elisabeth Dunn, 682.223.6002, pinkimpact@gatewaypeople.com

HOSPITALITY TEAM

We’re looking for people to help us maintain a friendly and inviting atmosphere during weekend services and major events. You can help with food prep, serving, and cleanup. Contact: Jasmine Streete, 682.223.6009, hospitality@gatewaypeople.com

SPONSOR A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS

This Christmas, consider blessing a single parent family here at Gateway. To donate major retail store gift cards or cash, place a clearly marked envelope in any offering container at your campus. To give online, visit egiving.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Velory Latham, 817.552.3684, singleparents@gatewaypeople.com

SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS SLK 700 Blessed Way · Southlake, TX 76092 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm DALLAS CAMPUS DAL 12123 Hillcrest Rd · Dallas, TX 75230 Sat 4:00 pm Sun 10:45 am FRISCO CAMPUS FRS 7125 Legacy Dr · Frisco, TX 75034 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm GRAND PRAIRIE CAMPUS GRP 2404 N Carrier Pkwy · Grand Prairie, TX 75050 Sat 4:00 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm NORTH FORT WORTH CAMPUS NFW 4209 Basswood Blvd · Fort Worth, TX 76137 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm NRH CAMPUS NRH 7501 Davis Blvd · North Richland Hills, TX 76182 Sat 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sun 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm MINISTRY CENTER MIN 540 S Nolen · Southlake, TX 76092 UNIVERSITY CAMPUS UC 2121 E Southlake Blvd · Southlake, TX 76092 817.328.1000

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY AVAILABLE

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) Dec 6 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 13, 20 & 27) DAL WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 14, 21 & 28) UC FRS GRP NFW NRH

SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am MIN (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 21

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHURCHWIDE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY DALLAS

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYDALLAS

GETTING DEBT-FREE AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

Saturday, Jan 21 | 10:00 am–12:00 pm | Classroom 2A This workshop will equip you with a proven strategy to pay off holiday expenses. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Brad Jack, 214.563.6787, stewardshipdal@gatewaypeople.com

KINGDOM ADVISORS’ LUNCHEON

Wednesday, Dec 14 | 11:45 am–1:00 pm We offer in-depth training and a tightknit community for Christian financial professionals who want to integrate their faith with their practice. Lunch is provided. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kristina Huff, 817.552.3671, stewardship@gatewaypeople.com

HOLIDAY SCHEDULES

The Gateway Dallas staff would like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! During the holiday season, weekly schedules may change. For more information, visit gatewaypeople.com. PRAY FIRST

Thursdays | 7:00–8:00 am | Prayer Suite (Canceled on Dec 22 & 29) Come ready to start your day with worship and prayer! Contact: Tracey Newcomer, 469.801.7206, prayerdal@gatewaypeople.com

FIFTY-PLUS BIBLE STUDY

Sundays | 9:00 am | Classroom 2A If you’re part of the 50+ crowd, married or single, you’re invited to join us for Bible study and fellowship. Contact: Carol Rose, 469.801.7228, fiftyplusdal@gatewaypeople.com

22 DECEMBER 2016

GATEWAY KIDS 5TH AND 6TH GRADE MINISTRY Weekend Services | The Mix

All 5th and 6th grade students are invited to a special Gateway Kids service designed just for them. Contact: Rob Warfel, 469.801.7236, kidsdal@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MEN’S BRIGADE

This outreach assists widows, the elderly, and single parents of Gateway Church with basic handyman needs around their homes. Special skill sets are not required to serve! Contact: Dustin Sample, 469.801.7219, mendal@gatewaypeople.com

JOIN OR LEAD A GROUP

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the Dallas Campus, join a Gateway Group or become a group leader. Find a group at groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kinnsey Echols, 469.801.7221, groupsdal@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY KIDS PAID & VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

Help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them. We have part-time paid and volunteer positions available. Contact: Anne Hardin, 817.552.7475, kidsjobs@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be a part of our usher, greeter, parking lot, Guest Central, and Welcome Center teams. For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly O’Briant, 469.801.7222, servedal@gatewaypeople.com

SAFETY SERVICES PAID POSITIONS

Do you have a desire to serve and protect? We have paid part-time positions available for licensed Level 3 officers to join our Safety Services team. Contact: Dara Prince, 817.552.7330, safety.services@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) 7:00 pm | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 13, 20 & 27) WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 21 & 28) THURSDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00–8:00 am | Prayer Suite (Canceled on Dec 22 & 29) SUNDAYS »» Fifty-Plus Bible Study 9:00 am | Classroom 2A

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 23

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY FRISCO

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYFRISCO

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Saturday, Jan 21 | 7:00 am | Lobby We hope to see you at our next breakfast where men in our community come together to connect and hear from the Lord. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, menfrs@gatewaypeople.com

HOLIDAY SCHEDULES

The Gateway Frisco staff would like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! During the holiday season, weekly schedules may change. For more information, visit gatewaypeople.com. CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Jan 7 | 9:00 am | Lobby

Come learn more about Gateway’s purpose, values, and history and explore how to get involved. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Vernita Lovett, 817.552.7517, ctvfrs@gatewaypeople.com

EQUIP | WINTER SEMESTER

Weekends Beginning Jan 7

We offer a wide range of Equip classes featuring Jewish, freedom, stewardship, spiritual life, and marriage and family ministries. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Connie Brown, 817.552.5868, equipfrs@gatewaypeople.com

24 DECEMBER 2016

LOCAL OUTREACH CHRISTMAS GIFT WRAPPING

Saturday, Dec 17 | 9:00 am–1:00 pm Toys R Us in Frisco Join us as we serve our community by wrapping Christmas gifts at local stores. Contact: Stacey Lujan, 469.238.1000, outreachfrs@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GATEWAY GROUPS LEADERS NEEDED

If you like bringing people together and helping them grow, consider leading a Gateway Group! We will give you all of the training, resources, and support you need to succeed. Register at groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, groupsfrs@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE

Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

We’re joining MarriageToday for an unforgettable two-day simulcast event designed to bring you and your spouse closer together, which features special guest speakers and a Q&A with Pastor Jimmy Evans and his wife. For more information and to register, visit xomarriageconference.com. Contact: Janae Hausman, 817.552.7585, xo@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be a part of our usher and greeter teams. For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Tricia Centracco, 817.552.7445, servefrs@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN’S MENTORING

Do you want to discover more about yourself, your potential, and your capabilities? Consider becoming a mentor or mentee. Contact: Kelly Hamilton, 817.552.7301, womenmentoringfrs@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 25

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY GRAND PRAIRIE

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYGRP

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

Sundays | 9:30 am | Ministry Center (2410 N Carrier Pkwy) (Canceled on Holiday Weekends) Is your marriage struggling? We provide scriptural equipping, encouragement, and prayer support. No registration required. Contact: Bri Kramer, 972.314.9000, marriagegrp@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS JEWEL STORE

Dec 10–11 | After Each Weekend Service | Classroom 2B Kids, bring your jewels to spend at the Jewel Store! Jewels can be earned by bringing your Bible to class, returning Replay sheets, and more. Contact: Neesy Brooks, 972.314.9101, babiesgrp@gatewaypeople.com

HOLIDAY SCHEDULES

The Gateway Grand Prairie staff would like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! During the holiday season, weekly schedules may change. For more information, visit gatewaypeople.com.

ANGEL TREE OUTREACH Dec 3–20

YOUNG ADULTS VOLUNTEERS

Tuesdays | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

Come serve our growing community of young adults! Contact: Rachel Sandefur, 972.314.9088, youngadultsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

LOCAL OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY

Tuesdays, Wednesday & Thursdays | 9:00 am–2:00 pm First Saturday of the Month | 9:00 am–2:00 pm The Joseph Storehouse Emergency Relief Center Come serve families in need at our local food pantry located at 2129 Galveston Street in Grand Prairie. Contact: Steve Taylor, 972.262.8318, staylor@tjsercenter.org

26 DECEMBER 2016

We’re partnering with Angel Tree to provide gifts to children in our community! We’ll have Christmas trees in the Lobby with special ornaments on them that list a child’s name and gifts they might like. You can pick up an ornament and drop off your gift at the campus any time before December 20. Contact: Neesy Brooks, 972.314.9101, babiesgrp@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be a part of our usher, greeter, parking lot, Guest Central, and Welcome Center teams. For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Joel Maldonado, 972.314.9108, gxpgrp@gatewaypeople.com

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

EQUIP | WINTER SEMESTER

Saturday, Jan 7 | 4:00 pm | Classrooms 2A & 2B

Sundays Beginning Jan 8 9:00 am & 10:45 am

This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Angela Wescott, 972.314.9106, ctvgrp@gatewaypeople.com

We offer a wide range of Equip classes featuring Jewish, freedom, stewardship, spiritual life, and marriage and family ministries. To register, visit equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Angela Wescott, 972.314.9106, equipgrp@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY KIDS PAID & VOLUNTEER POSITIONS

Help us shape the next generation for the future God has planned for them. We have part-time paid and volunteer positions available. Contact: Anne Hardin, 817.552.7475, kidsjobs@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY GROUPS | LEADERS NEEDED

If you like bringing people together and helping them grow, consider leading a Gateway Group! We will give you all of the training, resources, and support you need to succeed. For more information, visit groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Rachel Sandefur, 972.314.9088, groupsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY STUDENTS FIRST LOOK

First Wednesday of the Month | 6:30 pm If you’re interested in serving with Gateway Students, come visit a service, meet our staff, shadow another leader, and hear our heart and vision for the next generation. Registration is not required. Contact: Abby Fernandez, 972.314.9107, studentsgrp@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) Dec 6 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium DAL (Canceled on Dec 13, 20 & 27) WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 14, 21 & 28) SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge | 9:30 am Ministry Center, 2410 N Carrier Pkwy (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 27

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY NORTH FORT WORTH

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYNFW

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE

Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

HOLIDAY SCHEDULES

The Gateway North Fort Worth staff would like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! During the holiday season, weekly schedules may change. For more information, visit gatewaypeople.com. G3 PRISON MINISTRIES OUTREACH

Thursday & Sunday, Dec 6 & 11

Join us on December 6 as we pack special gift bags for women in prison. We will then deliver the bags on December 11. Space is limited. Register to serve on either day at outreach.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Mari Burrough, 817.552.7595, outreachnfw@gatewaypeople.com

SINGLE PARENT FAMILIES | WINTER SEMESTER Mondays Beginning Jan 9 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium

Single parent families are welcome to join us each week for a complimentary dinner at 5:30 pm followed by a night of worship or teaching as we focus on restoring a single parent’s heart. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.552.5801, spfnfw@gatewaypeople.com

28 DECEMBER 2016

GATEWAY EQUIP WINTER SEMESTER

Weekends & Mondays Beginning Jan 7

Come get equipped to fulfill your calling. We offer classes on spiritual life, marriage and family, stewardship, and freedom. Register at equip.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, equipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FINANCIAL FITNESS

Saturday, Jan 14 | 4:00 pm This monthly, personal coaching event is for anyone who desires one-on-one assistance with their finances and is a great follow-up to any of our Gateway Stewardship classes. Register at stewardship.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, stewardshipnfw@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAY FREEDOM

MARRIAGE CHALLENGE

Our Freedom Basics classes and Freedom trainings will begin again in January! For more information, visit freedom.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Meredith Tilton, 817.328.2075, freedomnfw@gatewaypeople.com

Sundays | 9:30 am North Fort Worth Campus Offices

Is your marriage struggling? We provide scriptural equipping, encouragement, and prayer support. Registration is not required. Contact: Denise Edwards, 817.558.5801, marriagenfw@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKEND GUEST EXPERIENCE

Are you looking for a way to get involved at Gateway? We’d love for you to be a part of our usher, greeter, Guest Central, and Welcome Center teams. For more information, visit gxp.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Donya Allen, 817.552.5899, gxpnfw@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS TUESDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00–8:00 am | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 13, 20 & 27) »» Gateway Young Adults (20s–30s) Dec 6 | 7:00 pm | Auditorium DAL (Canceled on Dec 13, 20 & 27) WEDNESDAYS »» Gateway Students (7th–12th Graders) 7:00 pm | Auditorium (Canceled on Dec 14, 21 & 28) THURSDAYS »» Men’s Promise Principle Groups 6:30 am | Guest Central (Canceled on Dec 22 & 29) SATURDAYS »» Morning Prayer | 8:00 am | Parking Lot (Canceled on Dec 17, 24 & 31) SUNDAYS »» Marriage Challenge 9:30 am | North Fort Worth Offices (Canceled on Holiday Weekends)

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING

GATEWAY NRH

Stay connected with us! GATEWAYNRH

FIFTY-PLUS BIBLE STUDY

Tuesdays | 10:00 am

If you’re a part of the 50+ crowd, you’re invited to join us on Tuesday mornings for Bible study and fellowship. Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.4144, fiftyplusnrh@gatewaypeople.com

BARABBAS FREEDOM MINISTRY

Sundays | 7:00 pm | Chat Room

This ministry is for men and women (18+) who have been incarcerated or struggle with addictions. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

HOLIDAY SCHEDULES

The Gateway NRH staff would like to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a blessed New Year! During the holiday season, weekly schedules may change. For more information, visit gatewaypeople.com. ACFT SCHOOL MENTORING

December–May | ACFT Elementary School By giving just one hour a week, you can become a part of our mentoring program. For more information, visit outreach.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Kemtal Glasgow, 817.552.5863, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

PRAY FIRST

Mondays | 7:00 am | Lobby Come ready start your day with worship and prayer! Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, prayernrh@gatewaypeople.com

30 DECEMBER 2016

VOLUNTEER CREATIVE & SOCIAL MEDIA TEAMS

Do you love to decorate? We’d love for you to be on our creative team and help set up and decorate for events. Are you passionate about photography? Come be a part of our social media team by taking pictures of services, events, and outreaches.

Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, creativenrh@gatewaypeople.com

Visit events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MEN’S BRIGADE SERVICE DAY

Saturday, Dec 10 | 7:30 am–12:00 pm This outreach assists widows, the elderly, and single parents of Gateway Church with basic handyman needs around their homes. We meet at the campus and divide into teams and mobilize out to serve from there. Special skill sets are not required to serve! Contact: Dustin Herron, 817.552.5809, menslk@gatewaypeople.com

KIDS JEWEL STORE

FAMILY NIGHT AT THE RODEO

Dec 10–11 | After Each Weekend Service Kids, bring your jewels to spend at the Jewel Store! Jewels can be earned by bringing your Bible to class, returning Replay sheets, and more. Contact: Joseph Chirico, 682.223.6917, kidsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

Tuesday, Jan 17 | 7:30 pm Cheer on your favorite riders at the Stock Show championship. Cost: $15 per person (children 2 and up need a ticket for admittance). Contact: Alicia Osgood, 682.223.6144, familynrh@gatewaypeople.com

JOIN OR LEAD A GROUP

If you’re looking for a way to get connected and make new friends at the NRH Campus, join a Gateway Group or become a group leader. Find a group at groups.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Rachel Rupert, 817.552.5885, groupsnrh@gatewaypeople.com

WOMEN’S MENTORING

Do you want to discover more about yourself, your potential, and your capabilities? Consider becoming a mentor or mentee. Contact: Rachel Rupert, 817.552.5885, womennrh@gatewaypeople.com

LEAD AN OUTREACH GROUP

CATCH THE VISION (MEMBERSHIP CLASS)

Saturday, Jan 28 | 4:00 pm | Chat Room

This class connects you to Gateway Church and explains our purpose, values, and history and gives you an opportunity to become a member. Register at ctv.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Christina Newton, 817.552.5870, ctvnrh@gatewaypeople.com

If you want to connect with others while serving our community at the NRH Campus, we’d love for you to lead an outreach group. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, outreachnrh@gatewaypeople.com

XO MARRIAGE CONFERENCE

Friday–Saturday, Feb 10–11 | Auditorium

GATEWAY MEN

If you’re looking to connect with other guys, we’d love to get to know you and share how you can get involved. For more information, visit men.gatewaypeople.com. Contact: Matt Lankenau, 817.552.5802, mennrh@gatewaypeople.com

WEEKLY EVENTS MONDAYS »» Pray First | 7:00 am | Lobby

PRAYER TEAM

If you are interested in praying for people in our congregation, join our NRH Campus prayer team. Contact: Katherine Hesami, 817.552.3600, prayernrh@gatewaypeople.com

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 31

ACTIVITIES

Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt This Christmas, get the family in the car and go on a scavenger hunt! Drive around the neighborhood and see who can spot all these items first. Check off the items as you find them!

32â&#x20AC;&#x192; DECEMBER 2016

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX How many

WHERE

can you find below?

FAITH + POP

CULTURE

MEET

by Katie Smith

AS BELOVED AS OUR CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS ARE, how did they

become traditions in the first place? Let’s jingle all the way to some tradition truths.

Santa Claus

Many legends surround the origin of Santa Claus, but the one closest to our current view of him is the story of St. Nicholas. Historians believe Nicholas was born around 300 AD near modern-day Turkey and was a kind and pious man who gave away all his wealth to help the poor and sick. His popularity remained high for many years, especially in Holland. In the 1770s, the idea of Santa Claus came to America through Dutch immigrants who honored Sinter Klaas (the Dutch name for St. Nicholas). New York newspapers and books began using his image in the early 1800s. In 1822, Episcopal minister Clement Clarke Moore wrote a poem for his daughters about a visit from St. Nicholas. The poem, “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” gained publicity and reinvented St. Nicholas as a jolly old elf who left presents for well-behaved children. Sixty years later, a series of cartoons printed in Harper’s Weekly by cartoonist Thomas Nast helped create our modern image of Santa: rosy cheeks, white beard, bright red suit, reindeer-led sleigh, and a bag full of toys.

Christmas in December

Answer: 40

“Thumpity-thump-thump, thumpity-thump-thump...”

The first recorded Christmas celebration was on December 25 in the year 336 AD. But hundreds of years before Christ’s birth was celebrated on an annual basis, people held midwinter festivals. In an agricultural society, winter is the perfect time to have a party because the harvest is complete and nothing can be done until spring. In a time when winter often meant darkness and cold, people needed cheering up. So when early Christians decided to celebrate Jesus’ birth, the midwinter atmosphere and need for a bit of merriment fit what they wanted to communicate in celebrating Christ’s birth: Jesus was born to bring life amid death, light amid darkness, and hope amid despair. Although historians believe Christ might actually have been born in spring or early fall, the time we really need to hear about His coming to earth is in the midst of our darkest hours. As much as these traditions add a bit of fun and whimsy to the holidays, the real reason we celebrate this time of year is to remember how Jesus came to earth to save us. We hope you enjoy rejoicing in Jesus’ birth with family and friends this Christmas!

GATEWAYPEOPLE.COM 33

PROFILE

month to get some time with each of them individually. I loved the idea and thought I could do it once a week. I tried it, and my kids have just loved it. We do things like go to Main Event, eat at a fun restaurant, play video games, visit an amusement park, or go bike riding. My daughter, Ella, gave me a calendar for Father’s Day that had the whole year of dates planned out. (The most recent date on the calendar was to paint pottery and go on a picnic.) It’s become a really sweet time with each of my kids. I used to post pictures of my outings with them on Instagram, but sometimes I don’t even bring my phone now because I want it to be just pure me-and-them time. I TAKE A PICTURE OF ELLA’S FACE EVERY DAY. I want to create a video of pictures showing how beautifully she’s grown from the day she was born. I’ll probably put it together when she’s around 10 years old because the older she gets, the longer the video is going to be!

WALKER BEACH IS THE EXECUTIVE PASTOR OF GATEWAY WORSHIP PRODUCTION. HE AND HIS WIFE, SARAH, HAVE FOUR CHILDREN: NOAH, DAWSON, GRAYSON, AND ELLA. MY DAD WAS THE PRINCIPAL PERCUSSIONIST in the New Orleans Philharmonic Symphony, and my mom was an opera singer. Growing up, I used to sit on the side of the Orpheum Theater, where the tech guys usually sit, and watch the symphony play. As a result, I became used to listening to the best musical ability from the best musicians in the world. I didn’t know anything less than incredible musicianship. So that became normal for me, and I genuinely thought that level of musical ability was common. The wake-up call came when I entered into the southern rock scene in the ‘90s! BEFORE I GOT MARRIED, the Lord gave me several visions about who my wife would be. The visions were very detailed. Things such as, I would meet her at Prestonwood Baptist Church (even though I didn’t attend there), she was soft-spoken, she didn’t wear any makeup or perfume, and even what her hair and hands looked like. God even told me that we wouldn’t

34 DECEMBER 2016

meet until a year later in March of 2000, so I didn’t need to even look for her until that time. I wrote all this down and mailed it to my pastor with instructions to open it on my wedding day. MY WIFE AND I WERE SET UP. When March came, I told a friend of mine, Jennie Riddle (she also happened to write “Revelation Song”), about some of the visions, but I made sure not to tell her where the Lord had said we would meet. They reminded her of a girl she knew in her Bible study named Sarah. She called Sarah after we talked and asked a few questions about what she wanted in a husband. Sarah responded, “The Lord told me he plays guitar and piano, and I think I know what his hands look like.” My friend immediately set us up to meet the next day after a midweek service at Prestonwood Baptist Church. But, despite all the visions the Lord gave me, I didn’t initially recognize her as the one. (I’m a little slow.) We went to dinner that night and eventually started dating, and I ultimately realized she was exactly the beautiful, amazing woman God had told me about. When we got married six months later, my pastor brought the letter I sent him to our wedding reception. It was the first time Sarah had seen it, and it confirmed everything. EACH WEEK, I have a one-on-one time with one of my kids. A couple of years ago, one of my best friends told me how he started taking one of his kids out every

WHEN I GO RUNNING, I only run one mile. Any more than that is not enjoyable. So I just run one mile really fast. It’s also the distance to the park and back. I’ve worked myself up to longer distances and tried the 5K thing. I was able to do it, but it wasn’t fun. I’VE ALWAYS LOVED THEATER and felt for a long time like it was missing from the Church. Because my mom was in the opera, I was used to attending theatrical productions, and I was even in a few shows in high school. But the biggest reason I love it is because it is how I got saved—it wasn’t going to church on a regular weekend, it was through a show. So my drive to be a part of writing and producing productions here at Gateway comes from two places: the love of the art form and how it reaches the lost. YEARS AGO, I WAS HIRED to work at an evangelistic production for a church in Plano, Texas. I was hired to do lasers, lights, and pyrotechnics for the show, but I didn’t have a license to run pyrotechnics. However, the show needed them and I needed to make a living, so I just did it. I ordered materials from Canada—apparently they don’t have a lot of regulations on their products—and ended up using pyro that was only approved for large outdoor spaces. It was so powerful that it blew out the ceiling tiles of the church and sent a pregnant woman into labor. I also gave my life to the Lord after one of the performances. It was quite the show! For more about our Gateway pastors and staff, visit staff.gatewaypeople.com.

LET’S DEDICATE THE FIRST OF THE YEAR TO THE LORD! CREATED TO BE | A GATEWAY SERIES December 31–January 22 FIRST CONFERENCE January 1–4

2 0 1 7

CREATED TO BE | 28-DAY DEVOTIONAL January 1–28 21-DAY CHURCHWIDE FAST January 1–21

first.gatewaypeople.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE PRAYER GATHERING Let’s thank God for all He did for us in 2016 and welcome 2017 with worship and prayer!

Saturday, December 31 | 6:00 pm Southlake Campus prayer.gatewaypeople.com

A New Truthical Adventure SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS Thursday, December 15 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm Friday, December 16 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm Saturday, December 17 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm & 7:00 pm Sunday, December 18 10:00 am, 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm Admission is free, but you must reserve a seat to be guaranteed admission. Reserve your seat today at gatewaychristmas.com. Reservations are not required for other campuses.

CANDLELIGHT SERVICES

A Gateway Family Christmas

SOUTHLAKE CAMPUS Friday, December 23 5:00 pm & 7:00 pm Saturday, December 24 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm

For other campuses and service times, visit gatewaychristmas.com. GATEWAYPEOPLE

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