Gateway Life | May/June 2013 by Gateway Church

M Ay · J u n e 2013

He’s Over There Too p. 8 Pastor Tim Ross shows how you can hear God anywhere and everywhere.

Oh, The Places They’ve Been! p. 12 Gateway staff members are a fascinating group! Learn about their hidden talents, past jobs and most embarrassing moments.

A Full-Length Mirror p. 14 Gateway members are discovering their destiny and purpose at the ID Seminar.

Relax … Summer is Here p. 10

Stressed and overworked? Pastor Robert shares how you can walk in God’s rest.

Contents comments

2 Welcome 3 Feedback

Gateway People

5 Tell Me Something Good

6 Outreach

features

He’s Over There Too

Pastor Tim Ross shows how you can hear God anywhere and everywhere.

Relax

… Summer is Here

Stressed and overworked? Pastor Robert shares how you can walk in God’s rest.

1 They’ve 2 Oh, The Places Been!

Gateway staff members are a fascinating group! Learn about their hidden talents, past jobs and most embarrassing moments.

Relax … Summer Is Here p. 10

A Full-Length Mirror Gateway members are discovering their destiny and purpose at the ID Seminar.

16 Calendar 18

Gateway Generate:

More than Just Music 19

Song Story

20 profile

As I look through this issue of Gateway Life, I see a recurring theme: the importance of hearing God. Pastor Robert has written a great article on rest, a gift from God that refreshes us and allows us to hear His voice. Pastor Tim Ross’ article proves God can speak to us in any setting and situation. Finally, we’re featuring the ID Seminar, an event specifically designed to help you hear from God about your destiny. I love this focus because our society is filled with clutter. We run the risk of ignoring God because we cannot hear Him over the noise of life. In Luke 11:28, Jesus said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” No one can obey God unless they first hear from Him. At Gateway Church, we always want to challenge people to pursue God so they can hear from Him and then obey Him. We’re each individually responsible to hear from God for ourselves, but we don’t live in a vacuum. When He speaks and we believe and obey, that action ripples outward, joining with the actions of other believers who are also listening to His voice. Gateway is where it is today because people like you heard God individually and then came together to do something big for His kingdom. When I see everything God is doing through our church here and around the world, I think, “Wow! This is what happens

when people live with a passion for His presence and voice!” As we focus our activity on what God is saying we also want to provide opportunities for others to participate. This magazine exists to let you know what’s happening in our church and how you can get involved. Through Gateway events and ministries, we want to make sure you have plenty of opportunities to seek God and hear from Him. When you listen to Him, you can act on what He says and join the multitude of voices proclaiming His name all around the world. Together, we are the symphony of His kingdom on the earth. The scope of what God is doing through Gateway is truly amazing, but it all starts with individuals. It starts with you and me hearing Him, believing Him and activating His truth in our lives. So let’s link arms as a church family and pursue Him. One day we’ll look back together and say, “Can you believe what God has done? It’s incredible!”

Gateway is where it is today because people like you heard God individually and then came together to do something big for His kingdom.

Executive Senior Pastor Tom Lane

Senior Pastoral Oversight David Smith // editor-in-chief Lawrence Swicegood // managing editor Stacy Burnett senior editor Josh Coad // Editor S.George Thomas // creative director Shane Dennehey // art director, designer Jeremy Tyson Illustrators Justin Miller (Oh, The Places They’ve Been!), Cory Say (Inside-Front Cover) // project manager Micah Conger, Jennifer Norris photographer Cory Hale // gatewaylifemag.com

2 Gateway life May · June 13

“” “Welcome to the Family,” Mar/Apr 2013

“I’m a ‘Shady Grover’ and am really excited about being one with the Gateway family!” –William Henley

“So glad to hear they’re going to [preserve] the history of Shady Grove. Awesome!” –Connie Jones Bauer

“I love this song [“Song Story–Bloom,” Mar/Apr 2013]! I first heard it at Pink Frisco last year and it resonated with me so much. I couldn’t stop singing it.”

“Encouragement has made all the difference in the world in my life [“The Power of Encouragement,” Mar/Apr 2013]!”

–Brittany Bridges

“This song has become one of my favorites [“Song Story–Bloom,” Mar/ Apr 2013]. I am so blessed by it.”

–Chris Cox

“Pastor Tommy Briggs has been an encouragement to me on several occasions. Thank you!”

–Laura Ordille

–Melissa White Abbe

Feedback

What do you have to say?

We love hearing from you as we continue to bring you the latest Gateway stories and news. We want to continue to include comments from you—our readers—about all things Gateway. What’s the Holy Spirit showing you through Pastor Robert’s sermons? Do you have a testimony from a recent Gateway service or event that you want to share? What’s your favorite article in the latest Gateway Life? What do you want to see in future issues? We want to know! On Facebook, feel free to comment on any photos, questions, news or articles we post. You can also talk to us on Twitter or email us at life@gatewaypeople.com. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts, opinions and insights!

Sincerely, The Gateway Life Team

“This is a beautiful article. It’s good to reflect on those who have encouraged me and think about those I can encourage [“The Power of Encouragement,” Mar/Apr 2013].” –Dawn Herndon Scholz

Say What?! • GRP [jee-ahr-pee]: The official abbreviation for the new Gateway Grand Prairie Campus.

Defining Gateway Church Lingo • Gateway Generate [geytwey jen-uh-reyt]: Gateway’s worship community and ministry for the next generation.

All responses taken from Gateway Church social media.

• ID Seminar [ahy-dee sem-uh-nahr]: A special 2-day seminar designed to help you discover God’s destiny for your life.

• Wacky Week [wak-ee week]: Gateway’s version of Vacation Bible School.

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Father/Daughter Dance

Habitation

Father/Daughter Dance

Pray First

Habitation

Pray First

Men’s Summit

“When I first discovered Gateway’s Single Parent Family Ministries, I felt a sense of peace from seeing such a vibrant community of thriving single parents. I've been humbled and blessed. After getting involved, God has restored my confidence as a single dad and renewed my heart for ministering to others. I am excited to see Gateway's Single Parent Family Ministries spread to all the campuses and throughout the dfw Metroplex.” - Bobby Dean

“I am so very grateful for Single Parent Family Ministries, because it’s the place where God brought me to heal my wounded heart. It’s here my son and I found our true identity in God. Anything is possible now! It's a safe haven for hearts to come and be restored. Thank you, Gateway Single Parent Family Ministries!” - Teresa L. Wickstrom

“Over the past few days, I’ve been using the Gateway app to go back and listen to the Dream to Destiny series. So good! I just listened to “The Palace Test” and may listen to it one more time before going on to the next one!” - Melissa Sapien Aulds

“My two teens were both very thankful [for Teen kairos] and had an amazing time! Thank you for ministering so strongly to our children!” - Susan Johnson Jones

“Throughout NextGen’s ministry trip to Sierra Leone, each of the leaders had personal ministry and freedom sessions with students on the team. We helped lead them to the presence of God to hear what He wanted to say to them. God spoke truth to lies, broke down barriers and strongholds and placed callings and anointing on their lives. It was truly a blessing to be a part of this unforgettable experience. I am so grateful and beyond blessed to have been a part of this team! Being able to watch God move in them and through the students to reach people in Sierra Leone was exciting and inspirational. Their hunger for God and the kingdom is so powerful! I cannot wait to see them walk out the callings God has placed on their lives!” - Nichole Easley Administrative Assistant, NextGen Frisco

“One of the main highlights [of the NextGen Sierra Leone ministry trip]

* To read more about our ministry trips to Guatemala and Sierra Leone, check out the Outreach Section on the next page!

for me was the day we traveled to a remote village. It was so far off, we had to cross a small river in a canoe, hike 2 kilometers and walk across a fallen tree to get to it. The people who lived there welcomed us with dancing and singing praises to God. They ushered us into their church for a mini-sermon and African worship songs, which they taught us how to dance to. One of the girls on our team brought stickers to hand out to the children. The best thing about that experience was seeing how much the people trust God. It was inspiring to witness their faith in Him.” – Sophia Ingram (mor student)

“Praise to God from Guatemala! God did great things today! The medical team saw 162 appreciative patients. Many from difficult backgrounds asked questions about the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Home visits were amazing as well. Also, last night at the hotel, workers watched our team worship and pray, so we invited them to receive prayer. Two received Christ, and we prayed over the entire serving staff.” - Heidi Young (sent in during the Family Ministry Trip to Guatemala*)

Want To Tell Us Something Good? Send us your stories and testimonies by emailing life@gatewaypeople.com.

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Outreach

“At Gateway, we have the privilege to see what’s happening all over the world. The evidence shows that global revival is underway,” says Allen Shoulders, Executive Pastor of Global Ministries. According to Pastor Allen, Gateway seeks to be a part of that revival by “building the kingdom through Christ-centered, church-led community transformation.” This includes our local community as well as communities around the globe. Already this year, Gateway has sent teams to prisons, the Dallas inner city, South America and Africa. We’re constantly involved in local outreach and, in March, our 2013 congregational ministry trips kicked off in full force. Take a few minutes to read about the ways we’ve reached the world over the past few months.

Local

Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Donation Drive Southlake and Dallas, TX // January 19–27

Gateway members donated enough furniture, household appliances and clothing to fill three 40-foot-containers and three box trucks. Through Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship’s Turn Around Agenda, these items will be sold to fund faith-based programs and community partnerships designed to transform the lives of urban youth and families.

Presbyterian Night Shelter Fort Worth, TX // February 3

For the second year in a row, Bob and Stephanie Grant’s Gateway Group organized a Super Bowl party for this local homeless shelter. More than 400 came to the party. Gateway provided funds for food and decorations.

6 Gateway life May · June 13

Youth World Dallas, TX // March 9

Gateway collaborated with Youth World, a non-profit organization that reaches at-risk youth in high-crime neighborhoods. 80 Gateway volunteers served for their Spring Break outreach event. Over 375 children and 125 adults participated in a fun afternoon complete with a carnival, bounce houses, a clown, a skateboarding show and a cookout. During the altar call, over 80 children and many adults came forward to receive Christ. Gateway member Audrey Wells said, “I was shocked and overwhelmed when the majority of the crowd raised their hands, declaring they wanted to accept Christ as their Savior.”

Coffield Prison Unit Tennessee Colony, TX // March 9

True Champs and G3 Prison Ministries joined forces to take a team of 14 Gateway men to Coffield Prison for a basketball game with the inmates. Gateway provided food for the 200 inmates in attendance. Two men accepted Christ during the event.

Cali, Colombia March 3–6 Pastor Alan and Nancy Smith took a team of 17 to Catch the Fire International’s leadership conference. Pastor Alan spoke at the conference, and the team served by praying for and ministering to those in attendance. Nancy Smith said, “All of us came home with a hunger to go deeper into our experience of the Lord’s manifest presence. Our thinking about what God can and will do has been stretched, and we will never be the same.”

Freeport and Surrounding Villages, Sierra Leone March 8–17 Pastors Chase Wilsey and Jared Lyons led a group of youth leaders and 13 students to this African country during Spring Break. While there, the team worshipped with and prayed for local believers and ministered in a school. On one occasion, they prayed for a girl whose legs did not function properly. When they finished, the girl ran for the first time in her life!

Guatemala March 10–17 Spring Break 2013 was an extremely busy week for Gateway Global Ministries. In one week, we sent four trips to Guatemala. A family ministry team of 48 travelled to Reu and Chichicastenango for children’s ministry, medical ministry and evangelism. Meanwhile, a team of four men flew into San Antonio La Nueva Esperanza for construction work while a team of 25 youth students and four leaders travelled to Chimaltenango, Guatemala, where they ministered to children in three different local schools. According to leader Kyle Fox, “The Guatemalan children loved it, and God spoke and ministered to each individual on the team.”

To read more testimonies from the Sierra Leone and Guatemala trips, check out Tell Me Something Good on page 5.

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He’s Over There T oo 8 Gateway life May · June 13

By Tim Ross

imagination that can produce pictures and even full moving sequences on command. I used to refer to it as a gift and a curse, but now I refer to it as “a gift I must steward.” From the moment I opened the Bible as a new believer, words and stories came alive to me. I could actually see what was going on in the Bible. I saw facial expressions and body language. I could hear vocal tone, sarcasm, exasperation and exuberance. I began to see patterns that connected the Old Testament to the New Testament and I began finding lessons in almost everything I read. Soon, I realized something significant: when I finished my devotions, I could close my Bible but I couldn’t close my mind. Once I opened up my heart and mind to “seeing” and “hearing” God through His Word I started seeing and hearing Him in every part of my life. Most of my sermons come from things I do and experience. From observing stop signs, to washing clothes, to watching movies and taking out the trash, almost everything “preaches” to me. I don’t think this is a special ability. I believe all of God’s children can “see” and “hear” Him in their everyday lives if they simply pay attention. Romans 1:20 says it this way: “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God” (nlt). God speaks through His creation in phenomenal ways! Not just in what He has created, but in what His creation—us—creates as well. How many times have you seen a piece of art and heard God whisper? How many times have you watched a movie or stage play and sensed something much more significant

was born with an incredibly vivid

taking place? How many times have you glimpsed God’s glory in something as unimportant as a sporting event? The truth of the matter is God is speaking all the time! He wants to be seen! He is not hiding from us. From the beginning of time He made a decision to make Himself known. In the Old Testament, He showed up in a cloud during the day and a pillar of fire by night. He became bread in the desert and water in the wilderness. He took creation and inserted Himself into it. All in an attempt that we might know Him! In the New Testament, He decided to do something completely unprecedented but prophetically promised. He decided to stop hiding behind His creation and wrap Himself in the flesh of His creation. He chose to become Emmanuel … God. With. Us. Have you ever heard someone say, “Do you see what I’m saying?” Well, when God wanted us to see what He was saying, He gave us Jesus. The impact of Jesus’ life split time in half, turned the cowardly into the courageous, the fearful into the faithful and the weak into the strong. He was seen and heard by thousands to be preached and revealed to billions. 2,013 years later, we can still see and hear Him. He is in your daughter’s innocent laugh, your son’s inquisitive tone, your mother’s disappointing cry and your father’s gushing pride. He is in the red light, the yellow light, the green light, the traffic jam, the alarm system and the fertilizer on the lawn. look! He is in your glass of water. He is in the plate that holds your food, the air conditioner and the fence in your backyard. look! He is inside. He is outside. He is in front. He is in back. He simply wants to reveal Himself to you! I encourage you to look for Him in all you do and I think you will find that He is over there too! GL

How many

times have you seen a

p i e c e o f a rt and heard

God whisper?

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hat was I going to do? I opened my underwear drawer, and there was only one pair left. What would I wear tomorrow? I couldn’t figure it out! My mind was so tired, I didn’t even think about washing some. It never even crossed my mind that Walmart sold underwear. Then I opened my sock drawer, and it too was empty. I just sat down and cried! I know this sounds crazy, but I was so mentally and emotionally exhausted that I was overwhelmed by the depleted supply of underwear and socks. Many people live right on the verge of exhaustion—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual exhaustion! What’s the answer? For me, it was as simple as: “Take the day off!” Last year, I preached about rest and the Sabbath during one of our weekend services, but summer is about to begin. For children, this season is a built-in time of rest. School’s out until August, so they have to have fun! However, most jobs don’t take a break, so we adults work through the summer. Many of us overwork ourselves, neglecting our children and family time. Just because you don’t have a required summer break doesn’t mean you have to burn out. Instead of overworking yourself, take a moment to revisit what God’s Word says about rest.

If we violate God’s commands, are there consequences? A constant stream of busyness unbroken by periods of rest does slowly kill us over time—physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. 2. Rest is a blessing. Have you ever felt like you couldn’t make a decision or think clearly because you were so tired? When we don’t rest, we don’t have the energy we need. Exodus 31:17 says, “on the seventh day He (God) rested and was refreshed.” Those words are amazing. How is an omnipotent God refreshed? Since He doesn’t have a physical body, this verse obviously refers to more than just physical rest. Literally it means “to take breath.” After creating the world, God stopped and “took breath.” Likewise, Sabbath allows us to stop and breathe—to restart our mind, body, emotions and spirit. It’s a blessing, not a burden.

When we don’t rest, we don’t have the energy we need.

1. Rest is a command. It’s number four on God’s “Top Ten” list (Exodus 20:8–11). But why do we often feel like it’s okay to keep just nine of the ten? Read through the Ten Commandments and see if there are any beside number four that you would purposefully, blatantly ignore. Should we take God’s name in vain or have other gods before Him? Should we lie, steal or commit adultery? Of course not! Why is the “day of rest” command the only one that’s not for today?

3. Rest is a benefit. The title of Psalm 92 identifies it as a song specifically for Sabbath. And in verse 10, the psalmist writes, “I have been continued on page 19

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D i s c o v e r i n g

D e s t i n y

a n d

P u r p o s e

i n

t h e

I D

S e m i n a r

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rior to attending gateway’s two-day id Seminar, Nick and Monica Swanson were at a standstill. He didn’t know how to use his talents, gifts and education for the Lord, and Monica constantly felt like her God-given desires conflicted with her daily responsibilities. After the first day of the seminar, they both started to feel a change. “My mind was overwhelmed with healing, freedom and purpose,” Monica says. “My husband was overwhelmed too. God was breaking down strongholds and barriers in both of our minds. We had already experienced healing and freedom through Gateway’s ministries, but this was different. This was empowerment.” By the time the seminar ended, the Swansons realized the Lord had given them a heart for international missions. Monica says, “We left the id Seminar miraculously changed. We have been on our knees each day since then, asking God to lead us. So many doors have already opened. God knew our strengths when he put us together and we’re excited to use them for His glory in all we do.” Like the Swansons, most of us feel called to do something meaningful with our lives. Many people want to use their unique talents and strengths for the Lord but don’t know what to do or where to start. Pastors Brad Stahl and Allan Kelsey developed the id Seminar to help people find their God-given destiny and life mission. Pastor Allan says, “You need to know that God has given you natural talent and spiritual gifts. These

Pastor Allan. “This seminar is a full-length mirror that reflects back to you the gifts and talents God’s placed inside of you. It asks you questions to help you determine the unique path He has for you.” Throughout the seminar, attendees benefit from classes and group sessions that deal with issues like an individual’s past, current position in life, strengths and spiritual gifts. At the end of the second day, each person is equipped to write their own life-mission statement.

to do?”

on this Earth

“ W h at a m I

gifts work together in a unique way.” The point of the id Seminar is to focus these gifts towards their intended use. According to Pastor Brad, “God gave us gifts to give away. It’s not meant for us to lavish on ourselves.” So much of the success of the seminar lies in its ability to serve each unique individual. Everyone wants to answer the question, “What am I on this earth to do?” However, the answer is different for each person. “We all get our purpose from the same Father, but He made us diverse,” says

For more information, email id@gatewaypeople.com.

Many people leave the seminar with a renewed sense of purpose leading to important life changes. “I’ve seen people of all ages get something out of it,” says Pastor Brad. “For some people, the change is huge, like a career shift. For others, it might mean viewing their job differently or pursuing a purposeful activity on their nights and weekends.” Testimonies pour in after every seminar, proving the Swansons are not a unique case. Joe Rojo said the experience gave him “a great sense of direction and illuminated areas where I could expand the effectiveness of my ministry to men. Thank you for this invaluable ministry to the body of Christ.” Gregg Morgan wrote, “My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed watching and listening as the Holy Spirit worked in us throughout the seminar. We have a greater understanding of His plan for our lives.” For Joey Fox, the id Seminar “confirmed God is working in my life in a different way. Step by step He is guiding me. I’m excited and unafraid.” The seminar’s impact is wide-ranging and the lessons taught apply to everyone. At the id Seminar, there’s a place for people from all occupations, backgrounds and experience, and that includes you! If you’re interested, don’t hesitate to sign-up today. The next seminar will be held April 26–27, with two more taking place in June and October. If you’re interested, register now at gatewaypeople.com. GL

Oh, the Places They’ve Been! The Gateway staff is an incredibly diverse group of men and women. We have Christian recording artists, former commercial fishermen, a talented ventriloquist, a former pro-golfer, gunshot survivors … even someone who almost accidentally killed a U.S. president. Here are some unexpected, praiseworthy, weird and potentially embarrassing facts* about Gateway staff members.

Shawn Ring

Mary Jo Pierce Randy Cochran Tim Ross Sion Alford

Rebecca Pfort Kevin Blacquire

Geoffrey Cohen

PreviousLY

Gunnar Johnson

POTUS

Lawrence Swicegood Tagi Takape

David Leuschner

Raul Cabrera Eric Orso

Sion Alford worked as a pharmacist. Kevin Blacquiere was published twice in scientific journals. Josh Blount spent his early summers as a wrangler. Marc Bolling was mistaken for a turkey, and was shot from 500 yards away. Mike Brisky played professional golf for 15 years with 7 years on the PGA Tour. He has hit 10 hole-in-ones, played in 5 U.S. Opens, and is in the UT Pan American Hall of Fame and the Rio Grande Valley Hall of Fame. Raul Cabrera is a former ventriloquist. He can allegedly talk and blow up a balloon simultaneously. Randy Cochran was a calf roper and team roper. He qualified for the High

14 Gateway life May · June 13

School National Rodeo Finals all four years of high school.

Mike Guzzardo played college basketball.

Geoffrey Cohen majored in fashion buying and merchandising.

Ben Haake was in bowling leagues for more than 10 years.

Stan Dennis played basketball in college and received 1st Team All-American award.

Mark Harris is a Dove Award-winning Christian recording artist. He was a member of the group 4Him.

Jason Gabriel served as an officer in the Air Force.

Kari Jobe is a Grammy-nominated and Dove Award–winning Christian recording artist.

Linda Godsey worked for 14 years as a makeup artist for Life Today with James and Betty Robison.

Mark Jobe took piano lessons from George Strait’s piano player. He was also shot once.

Samantha Golden faked an asthma attack in the middle of a track race so she wouldn’t have to finish last. She was also a preschool teacher and worked at a teen pregnancy crisis center.

Gunnar Johnson raced bikes in Florida.

Allan Kelsey served in the South African military as the acting officer in charge of the fifth medical battalion group. He’s also junior black belt in Okinawan Karate and used to be a worship leader.

Linda Godsey

Rita Springer

Josh Blount

Jason Gabriel

hran

Mike Briskey

David Smith

Mark Jobe

Lonnie Morgan

Ben Haake

becca Pfortmiller

Marc Bolling TV/FIlm

Military

Skills

athletics

Tim Sheppard

Gunshot Survivor

Music

Todd Lane

Stan Dennis

Allan Kelsey

Kari Jobe

Samantha Golden Gayland Lawshe Mike Guzzardo

Eric Orson

Todd Lane played bass guitar in a college band. Gayland Lawshe sang in the Texas Boys Choir in elementary school, and he can make stained-glass windows.

Mark Harris

John Spurling

David Leuschner has done audio/video/ lighting work for President George H.W. Bush, Walt Disney World, Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman and the Newsboys.

Jelani Lewis played violin in middle school. Lonnie Morgan played seven years of organized soccer. Eric Orson sang at a rally for President George W. Bush and was an extra on LOST. Mary Jo Pierce worked for American Airlines for 14 years as a stewardess and instructor.

*All facts printed with their permission, of course!

Rebecca Pfortmiller grew up on a farm where she often milked goats. She worked as a worship pastor in Phoenix and Ireland. She used to record radio jingles, and she’s also an avid boxer.

Shawn Ring was a commercial fisherman in Alaska and worked with the Hillstrand family before the show Deadliest Catch made them famous. Tim Ross was a stand-up comic. Tim Sheppard signed a recording contract with a major Christian label at age 21 and toured full-time as a contemporary Christian singer and songwriter.

Jelani Lewis

Rita Springer is a Christian recording artist. She wrote and recorded the song “Still Breathing” for the Brendan Fraser movie of the same name. John Spurling attended college on a football scholarship and lettered four years. Lawrence Swicegood was a member of the White House Advance Team and Senior Communications Specialist for President George H.W. Bush, whom he hit with a golf ball. He also worked for President George W. Bush. Tagi Takape can climb coconut trees, dive from cliffs and waterfalls, spearfish and catch fish with his bare hands. GL

David Smith was a member of Dove, one of the first Contemporary Christian bands in America.

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Calendar

M ay

June

Sun

Mon

Tues

wed

thurs

fri

sat

Sun

Mon

Tues

wed

thurs

fri

sat

may

National Day of Prayer 6:00 pm // Southlake Town Square Pavilion Join with Christians from Gateway and area churches for this special time of prayer. may

V! Presents: An Evening at the Symphony 6:00 pm // Southlake Campus All volunteers are invited to this years V! Party featuring the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. may

Habitation 6:00 pm // Southlake Campus

june

Night of Prayer for Human Trafficking 6:00 pm // Southlake Campus Sponsored by Bless!, Pink and Gateway Men june

Habitation 7:00 pm // Southlake Campus june

10–15

Amazing Kids’ Camp Dry Gulch, U.S.A. june

Single Parent Families Golf Classic 9:00 am // Trophy Club Country Club Hit the links to benefit Gateway’s Single Parent Families. june

23–29

Family Vacation Camp Laity Lodge // Kerrville, TX Bring out the entire family for a week of adventure, swimming, zip-lines and great food.

16 Gateway life May · June 13

Check events.gatewaypeople.com for the latest information.

Recurring Events Kids/Students

Unity (Marriage)

AMPED (Jr. High, 7th–8th Grade) Sundays // 5:30 pm SLK Wednesdays // 6:30 pm

NRH

Southlake Campus SLK

• Marriage Challenge Sundays // 9:30 am MIN

700 Blessed Way Southlake, TX 76092 Saturdays 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm

FRS

InfinitiKids (Birth–6th Grade, Kids of Single Parents) Mondays // 6:00 pm

Weekend Services

SLK

InfinitiYouth (7th–12th Grade, Kids of Single Parents) Mondays // 6:00 pm SLK MOR (Sr. High, 9th–12th Grade) Wednesdays // 6:00 pm NRH Wednesdays // 6:30 pm SLK Wednesdays // 7:30 pm FRS

Gateway Equip

7125 Legacy Drive Frisco, TX 75034

Sun, May 19 & June 9 // 6:00 pm

Jewish Messianic Service

Mondays // 6:30 am

Single Parent Families SLK • Meal Mondays // 6:00 pm • Worship Service Mondays // 7:00 pm • Breakout Classes Mondays // 7:40 pm • ReNew (Single Moms) Mondays // 7:00 pm • Legacy (Single Dads) Mondays // 7:00 pm

Seven (18–29) Tuesdays // 7:00 pm

SLK

Men’s Gatherings Wednesdays // 7:00 am

SLK

NRH

Saturdays 4:00 & 5:45 pm Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Grand Prairie Campus GRP

Pray First

Singles SLK • Worship Service Mondays // 7:00 pm • Divorce Care Mondays // 7:00 pm • Breakout Classes Mondays // 7:40 pm

PrimeTime (50+) • DayTime Bible Study Tuesdays // 10:00 am

Frisco Campus FRS

Habitation

Fri, May 10 & June 7 // 7:30 pm

Adults

Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Mondays // 7:00 pm FRS Wednesdays // 7:00 pm SLK Saturdays // 4:00 pm SLK Sundays // 9:00 am SLK

SLK NRH FRS

2404 N Carrier Pkwy Grand Prairie, TX 75050

Catch the Vision (Membership Class)

Sundays 10:45 am

Sat, May 4 // 9:00–11:30 am SLK Sat, June 1 // 9:00–11:30 am SLK Sat, June 1 // 9:00 am–12:00 pm

NFW Campus NFW

FRS

Spiritual Growth

Fossil Ridge High School 4101 Thompson Rd Fort Worth, TX 76244

DayTime Bible Study (Senior Adults) Tuesdays // 10:00 am SLK

Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Foundations of Freedom Classes Sundays // 10:45 am FRS

NRH Campus NRH

Healing Ministry Mondays // 7:00–9:00 pm

NRH

Prayer • Corporate Prayer for Our Nation Sundays // 10:40 am SLK • High Noon Prayer Wednesdays // 12:00 pm SLK • Men’s Prayer Meetings Thursdays // 5:30 am SLK Fridays // 6:00 am FRS

7501 Davis Blvd North Richland Hills, TX 76182 Saturdays 4:00 pm & 5:45 pm Sundays 9:00 am, 10:45 am & 12:30 pm

Ministry Center MIN 540 S Nolen Southlake, Texas 76092

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Gateway Generate:

More Than Just Music By Josh Coad

when a fellow gateway member learns I’m a part of Generate, they usually ask, “So, what exactly is Generate?” That’s a bit of a tricky question for me. If I were to ask you to define music, you could open Webster’s dictionary and tell me the following: “Music is vocal, instrumental or mechanical sounds having rhythm, melody or harmony.” Technically, that’s what music is, but it doesn’t capture the experience of actually listening to music. So here’s a surface-level definition for Generate: Generate is the worship ministry and community for the “next generation of our church. We serve Gateway’s NextGen ministries in worship at their services, camps and events. While that’s an accurate description, I think it falls short. Music is more than its definition, and Generate is about more than worship music. Using Pastor Thomas Miller’s example of leadership and passion for discipleship, Pastor David and Alena Moore started Generate almost nine years ago to train youth students for worship ministry. I was in the tenth grade at the time and desperately wanted to learn how to be a worship leader, so I immediately signed up. I had no clue what I was getting myself into. What started as a handful of musically-inexperienced and socially-awkward kids has now grown into a full-blown community of teens, twenty- and thirty-somethings who lead worship for youth services across all Gateway campuses, participate in outreaches, lead corporate nights of worship, pray together, sing together and, most importantly, seek God together. When I joined, I thought our primary purpose was to play worship music on a platform. Make no mistake, that’s a huge part of what we do, but our chief purpose, as David and Alena often remind us, is to “know God, be known by God and be known for knowing God.” “The goal is to have a personal relationship with God,” says Pastor David. “One day everything will pass away. The only thing we can carry into eternity is our relationship

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with Him.” How does this apply to worship ministry? “You can’t introduce someone to a person you don’t know. When you worship the Lord and listen to His voice, then you can provide opportunities for others to encounter Him,” says Alena. Generate is a community centered on worship, not just music. Anyone with a passion for worship who is a member of a Gateway NextGen ministry can be a part. Our desire to know God and help others know Him takes three main expressions. The first is outreach. Following the biblical example of Matthew 6:1–4 , the Generate team participates in outreaches throughout the community as acts of worship. The second expression is the worship mob. Comprised of musicians and non-musicians alike, the mob meets before worship events to pray. After prayer, they head into the service where they are encouraged to express and lead worship from within the congregation. The third and final expression is traditional platform ministry. Generate musicians and vocalists lead worship for all NextGen services and camps and, more recently, for Generate nights of worship. I love being a part of Generate, but I especially love these nights of worship. Twice a year, we invite everyone in the congregation to join us in the Southlake Campus Auditorium. People of all ages come together to lift their voices and worship. Joining with others to seek God is awesome, inspiring and, to tell you the truth, it’s a ton of fun. I can’t believe I get to be a part of it. Our next night of worship is Friday, June 14, and we would love to see you there. Bring yourself, your friends, your enemies, your family, your grandparents … anyone and everyone. If these nights have taught me anything, it’s that when God’s children come together to worship Him, a joyous party is bound to ensue. GL For more information, email generate@gatewaypeople.com.

Song Story “As We Pray” W

hat was I going to do? I opened my underwear drawer, and there was only one pair left. What would I wear tomorrow? I couldn’t figure it out! My mind was so tired, I didn’t even think about washing some. It never even crossed my mind that Walmart sold underwear. Then I opened my sock drawer, and it too was empty. I just sat down and cried! I know this sounds crazy, but I was so mentally and emotionally exhausted that I was overwhelmed by the depleted supply of underwear and socks. Many people live right on the verge of exhaustion—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual exhaustion! What’s the answer? For me, it was as simple as: “Take the day off !” Last year, I preached about rest and the Sabbath during one of our weekend services, but summer is about to begin. For children, this season is a built-in time of rest. School’s out until August, so they have to have fun! However, most jobs don’t take a break, so we adults work through the summer. Many of us overwork ourselves, neglecting our children and family time. Just because you don’t have a required summer break doesn’t mean you have to burn out. Instead of overworking yourself, take a moment to revisit what God’s Word says about rest.

WHEN WE DON’T REST, WE DON’T HAVE THE ENERGY WE NEED.

3. Rest is a benefit. The title of Psalm 92 identifies it as a song specifically for Sabbath. And in verse 10, the psalmist writes, “I have been continued on page 19

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Relax, Summer is Here continued from page 11 anointed with fresh oil.” In other words, he’s saying, “Because I took a day to rest and honor the Lord, I’ve received new anointing.” If we set aside a day for the Lord every week, we will be more anointed, refueled and refreshed. What happens if you try to push a vehicle too far without stopping at a gas station for fuel? The vehicle will eventually stop working. Many of us don’t refuel ourselves because we don’t want to waste time doing nothing. But what happens? Eventually you run out. Rest isn’t simply doing nothing. It refreshes and refuels. You need to have fuel for your family, your job and your relationships. This applies to everyone. I want to encourage you to take a look at your schedule and plans for the summer. Are you planning on resting? If not, make sure you schedule a weekly Sabbath for yourself. If you’re married, talk to your spouse about taking a vacation together. If you have children, schedule days for the whole family to do fun activities together. Above all, remember that God wants to bless you with His rest. He didn’t create you for rest and the Sabbath; He created these gifts for you. GL

By Walker Beach

The process of writing “As We Pray” began when a friend of mine, who is a pastor at another church, went through a terrible tragedy. He dropped his daughter off to go on a trip with their youth group and they asked him to pray for them right before the bus left. Later that day, he heard the bus had crashed and his daughter was critically injured. She battled in the hospital for weeks but eventually passed on to be with the Lord. Afterwards, my friend wrote a blog post about prayer. He wasn’t questioning the point of prayer, but he was openly working through questions that resulted from this tragedy: Does prayer matter? Did I pray the wrong thing? What happens when we pray? I knew I couldn’t fully explain prayer or provide all the answers, but I wanted to write a song that reveals what happens when we pray. I wanted to model the Lord’s Prayer, because Jesus Himself told us how to pray in that passage. As a result, the linchpin of the chorus is the lyric, “not ours but Your will be done.” We pray so our will unites with God’s. This truth led to two more lyrics: “As we pray, the will of God and man align” and “Bring healing and repentance.” Pastor Robert preaches that repentance isn’t as much saying “I’m sorry” as it is changing our minds to think the way God intended. Through prayer, we can truly repent and shift our minds and actions in God’s direction. The verses further explain what prayer accomplishes: darkness turns to light, the blind (spiritually and physically) are given sight, etc. After singing about the nature of prayer in the verses, we enter the chorus and actually sing our prayer: “Let Heaven’s gates be opened / Let words of life be spoken.” This prayer continues in the song’s bridge and becomes evangelistic: “We lift one voice to one God for one cause / That all may know Your love.” I feel called to be a worship evangelist, so I try to include the message of salvation in every song I write. In this case, the bridge’s evangelistic lyrics represent one of the most important prayers of the church. If you want to boil down our purpose to a single statement, it’s that all would know His love. It’s the clarion call for us to unite our voices in prayer and worship Jesus. Walker Beach is Executive Pastor of Worship Production. He leads worship for weekend services and has written songs for multiple Gateway Worship projects. You can hear “As We Pray” on the Gateway Worship album, Forever Yours.

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Profile

QA Rafael Hernandez

Rafael Hernandez has been a part of the housekeeping team at the Gateway offices since 2006. He is known throughout Gateway as one of the friendliest people on staff, and he’s always sharing the gospel with others. Rafael lives with his wife, Raquel, in Arlington. They have four grown children: Raquel, Rafael, Jr., Tamara Lisa, and Sarah Elena. Where were you born? Pachuca, Hgo. Mexico

How were you saved? I used to sell newspapers on the street in Tijuana, B.C., Mexico. For two years, the same woman kept ministering to me and telling me about Jesus. In 1960, I eventually accepted her invitation to go to church, and I was saved and baptized.

How did you meet your wife? A friend of mine is a pastor and He already knew my future wife, Raquel. He had a vision of the two of us together and believed the Holy Spirit was telling him to introduce us. He prayed about it further and asked God to bring me to

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his doorstep that day as confirmation. I hadn’t talked to this man in more than three months, but that day I decided to go to his house. When I arrived, he was shocked! With his prayers confirmed, he introduced us. She lived in Tucson, Arizona, and I lived in San Pedro, California. We began calling and writing letters to each other and eventually met in person. We were married on May 25, 1974. Have you worked at any other churches? I was a pastor for a year and half at a church in Tijuana and for a year in San Pedro, California.

Where have you lived besides Mexico, California and Texas? Shortly after we were married, Raquel and I both had the same dream on the same night. We saw ourselves in the desert. We both felt this was the Lord telling us to move to Tucson, so we obeyed and lived there for 25 years before moving to Texas. How did you come to Gateway? We initially moved our family to Texas to be a part of another church. At that church, two women prayed over my wife and prophesied that we would be at that church for a season before the Lord moved us to a more permanent church home. A short time after that, our daughters visited Gateway. They loved it, so we visited too. We felt at home and knew it was the place for us. What do you appreciate about Gateway? I’ve had some of the biggest revelations of my life here. Pastor Robert’s teaching has been so meaningful to me. The

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done? I’ve almost died three times! (1) When I was six months old, I almost died of pneumonia. (2) When I was a teenager, I went to a pool party with my cousins. Even though I didn’t know how to swim, I jumped in the pool and almost drowned! Thankfully, one of my cousin’s friends pulled me out. (3) When I was 16, I wanted to practice driving, so a friend loaned me his car. As I drove, I started going down a hill toward a train track and realized the brakes weren’t working! I cried out to God to save my life! Eventually, the car came to a stop and I was unharmed. I jumped out of the vehicle, ran into a nearby church and praised God for keeping me safe! Favorite books of the Bible? Nehemiah and Acts What’s your favorite food? Authentic Mexican food, especially Caldo de Res (Mexican beef soup).

What’s your favorite part about working at Gateway? Meeting people! Spanish translation of The Blessed Life really helped me grow in my walk with the Lord. I also love Pastor Robert’s sermons, “What’s My Job?” and “What’s Your Job?” and all his teachings on the Holy Spirit. Understanding and knowing the Holy Spirit has changed my life.

What’s your favorite thing to do for fun? Watch soccer. My favorite team is Los Tuzos de Pachuca.

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Metamorphosis: Aftermath

CAMPED

Sr. High // July 11–15

Jr. High // July 29–August 2

Sc h o o l ’ s o u t f o r s u mm e r W h at a r e yo u g o n n a d o a b o u t i t ?

MixUp: REMIX

Amazing Kids Camp: Dry Gulch

5 t h –6 t h grade // August 5–8

1 s t –4 t h grade // June 10–15

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