December 2015 by Good News Chattanooga

Gò0dNews December 2015

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

CHATTANOOGA

Your Gift Counts Most of us, including our friends and family members, will ultimately face a life-limiting illness or a loss. End-of-life care is a special kind of care. Hospice of Chattanooga is there for physical, emotional and spiritual support at that most precious time. As a community-based, nonprofit hospice, we are also there for those who cannot afford hospice care, thanks to the generosity of people like you. This is why every dollar we receive from individuals, foundations, corporations, organizations, churches and special events is appreciated and valued.

Your gift, no matter how large or small, makes a difference: not only to our organization, but to the people who receive our care and support. Investing in Hospice of Chattanooga is an investment in our community and shows your support for all those who live here.

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• It’s Not What You Think p. 6 • The Most4411 Treasured FREE p. 14 Tennessee 37416 OakwoodGift DriveIs• Chattanooga, • The Best Gifts p. 28

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About Us Writers

Pastor Samuel Burger Andrew Lee Andrew Shaffer Danielle Jennings Darren Schalk Delaney Walker Don Smith Karen Brummer Kathleen Lakeland Lindsey Cooke Mark Aitkenhead Melissa Noble Snyder Tyler Shores William Lamb

Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have three beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, and Andrew. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

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Letter from the Editor

n every depiction of the Christmas story, we see Mary and Joseph, King, shepherds, and angels. Later three wise men, or the Magi, bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But there were also three wise women— Elizabeth, Mary (the mother of Jesus), and Anna—who played significant roles in the unfolding drama of Christmas. Elizabeth and her husband, Zacharias, had prayed for a child for many years. When they were first married, they anxiously awaited the patter of little feet in their home, but Elizabeth came to the dreaded realization—she was barren. Then one day Zacharias came home with great news! An angel had visited him and promised them a son, but he could not speak. He was so excited; Elizabeth could hardly read his writing. A son! She couldn’t believe she was really pregnant? One day the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, the cousin of Elizabeth, with the strangest news. “‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. . . . For nothing is impossible with God’” (Luke 1:35, 37 NIV). Mary didn’t understand at first, but she knew everything would be all right. God wasn’t just working in her life; He was working in Elizabeth’s too. The third wise woman in the Christmas story is Anna who spent most of her time in prayer at the Temple. After only seven short years of marriage, Anna became a widow, and now at 84 years old, she reflected on all these years she had fasted and prayed. God had sustained her and used her to minister to those who came to the Temple to worship. As Anna was standing in the courtyard praying, she watched the couples coming from everywhere, bringing their 40-day-old babies to be dedicated. When she saw Simeon talking with a different couple, she knew this was the Promised Child! He had not been slaughtered by Herod’s soldiers. The Messiah was here! Immediately, she wanted to tell everyone about this Child who had come to redeem her people and all who would call on His name. These three women gave us more than gold, frankincense, and myrrh—they gave us gifts of wisdom. Elizabeth was wise because she was faithful to God in spite of her embarrassment and disappointments. Mary was wise because she surrendered her future to God regardless of the difficulties and complications it would cause, and Anna was wise because she was hopeful through all the discomforts and loneliness in her life. This Christmas, may we follow the examples of these three wise women and understand that Jesus deals in impossibilities. He gives hope to all who seek His wisdom! Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

anooga is there for physical, emotional tual support at that most precious time.

support for all those who live here.

Every gift is appreciated. December 2015 munity-based, nonprofit hospice,

Gò0dNews

Please consider giving a financial or memorial gift so there for those who cannot afford Christian Magazine through The Hospice of Chattanooga Foundation. care, thanks to the generosity of people Call us at 423-892-4289 or donate online at This is why every dollar we receive www.hospiceofchattanooga.org ividuals, foundations, corporations, 4 About tions,Pgchurches andUs special events is Pg 6 GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk ted and valued. It’s Not What You Think

by Pastor Samuel Burger GoodNews for Kids What Is Advent? by Danielle Jennings Pg 10 GoodNews on Money Matters You Can’t Take It with You akwood Drive • Chattanooga, Tennessee 37416 by Andrew Lee Pg 12 GoodNews for Men (423) 892-4289 • (800) 267-6828 4 Parenting Lessons I Learned from My Dad by Darren Schalk www.hospiceofchattanooga.org Pg 14 GoodNews for Women The Most Treasured Gift Is FREE by Melissa Noble Snyder Pg 20 GoodNews for Couples Relationships That Last by Don Smith Pg 22 GoodNews for Life The Reason for the Season by Delaney Walker Pg 24 GoodNews for Health & Fitness Stay on Your Fitness Path by Lindsey Cooke Pg 26 GoodNews for Teens Real Gifts by Andrew Shaffer Pg 28 GoodNews for Seniors The Best Gifts by Karen Brummer Pg 30 GoodNews for Everyone Divine Friendship by Tyler Shores Pg 32 GoodNews for Parents GOOD NEWS FROM THE JUNGLE by Mark Aitkenhead Pg 34 GoodNews for Everyone The Need to See Jesus! by William Lamb

Pg 8

Pg 18-19

Pg 16-17

Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

It’s Not What You Think There has to be an exchange because you cannot change your nature. by Samuel Burger

he heart of Christianity is not about change; it’s about

trying to save yourself. You’ll try to be your own god. If you

an exchange. Christianity is not about improving

think God is grading you on your behavior, then you’ll just

yourself; it’s about dying to yourself. Christianity is not

behave badly or be an annoying legalist because you are not

about morality or immorality; it’s about a new life in Christ. Christianity is not a rule-keeping system or a grade scale; it’s about freedom. Do you know why it’s hard to live out God’s commands?

viewing the Gospel correctly. You cannot change your behavior permanently. For example, a coconut tree will not produce peaches because it is not designed to bear anything else. Likewise, when Jesus

It’s because we think in terms of “change” and not

took our sins upon Himself and gave us His righteousness, we

“exchange.” You have to understand you are a sinner not

became a new creation. A new creation will only produce what

because you sin but because you are a sinner by birth. You

it was designed to produce. A new creation will not produce

were a sinner before you committed sins. You cannot defeat

bad behavior or good behavior with an impure motive. No one

sin or its power. No matter how hard you try to live right,

goes to a coconut tree looking for peaches to eat. Since you are

you will fail. Why? It’s because you are trying to keep God’s

a new creation, you can expect your desires to change because

commands through will-power or the flesh. Since you’re a

your nature has changed.

sinner by nature, you cannot improve or get better. If you are

Now try to transplant the coconut tree here in Cleveland,

morally apt, you’ll still be a sinner by nature because you’ll be

Tennessee. Gradually, it will wither because the habitat is not conducive for its survival. Likewise, if you don’t constantly renew your mind to the fact that God in Christ made you a new creation, you will start to wither away with selfdestructive behavior. Your mind must be habitable so this truth can take root in the practical areas of your life. This is why it’s difficult for some people to live the Christian life. They are trying to live out God’s commands in context of trying to “change” instead of believing in the “exchange” (see 2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 2:20). It takes a while for any tree to grow, too. So we have to be patient for it to produce fruit. Many times we will expect someone who just placed their faith in Christ to have it all together. What a mistake! So next time someone asks you, “Where is your fruit?” You ask them, “Where is your patience?” By the way, patience is a fruit of the Spirit. Friends, you have been trying too much. How about trusting? Quit trying to be a better old you and start trusting that God has given His life living in you and through you to the glory of God! Only then you can make the doctrine of God more attractive through your actions as you are transformed from the reality of the “exchange” (see Titus 2:10).

6 // December 2015

Samuel Burger is pastor at Chestuee Worship Center, 1414 Athens Rd, Calhoun, TN 37309.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

What Is Advent?

Take time to share the true meaning of Christmas with your children. by Danielle Jennings

dvent is when we prepare our hearts to receive God’s gift of Jesus. It is the time of year that we turn our focus to the true meaning of Christmas. Each week we

celebrate what God sending Jesus allows us to receive—hope, love, joy, and peace. We remind ourselves each year of these gifts by lighting a candle each week on an advent wreath. On Christmas, the center candle, called the Christ Candle, is lit to

• Cut each piece of paper in half, and then in half again to make four equal pieces. • Help your child date each piece of paper and hang up the blank pieces onto the string with clothes pins. • Each day after you read, encourage your kids to write or draw their interpretation on the scripture for that day. This year, Advent begins on November 29.

represent Christ’s birth and to conclude the waiting period of Advent with the gift of Jesus. Advent is a great time to share the true meaning of Christ-

11/29: Jeremiah 33:14-16—“ΑTime of Waiting” 11/30: Psalm 25:4-5—“A Time of Truth”

mas with your children. Below is an activity to engage the

12/1: John 3:1-21—“A Time of Sharing”

family during this Advent season.

12/2: Luke 1:68-79—“A Time of Memories”

Interactive Advent Activity for Kids. What you’ll need:

12/3: Luke 1:39-55—“A Time for Greetings” 12/4: Matthew 25:31-40—“A Time for Charity” 12/5: Romans 15:1-7—“A Time for Visiting” 12/6: John 14:1-6—“A Time of Hope”

• 6 pieces of paper

12/7:Isaiah 55:6-11—“A Time of Faith”

• Scissors

12/8: Galatians 3:23-4:7—“A Time of Promise”

• String

12/9: John 11-14— “A Time for Candles”

• Clothes pins • Crayons or markers

Instructions

• Before this activity, hang a piece or string on a wall in your house.

12/10: Psalm 150—“A Time for Music” 12/11: John 15:1-11—“A Time for Being in Touch” 12/12: Luke 10:38-42—“A Time of Rushing” 12/13: Colossians 3:12-17—“A Time of Singing” 12/14: Luke 1:5-80—“A Time for Family” 12/15: Psalm 118:19-29—“A Time for Decorations” 12/16: Read John 6:32-40—“A Time for Baking” 12/17: Thessalonians 3:11-13—“A Time for Love” 12/18: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7—“A Time of Solitude” 12/19: Isaiah 25:6-9—“A Time for Remembering” 12/20: Matthew 11:25-30—“A Time of Peace” 12/21: Hebrews 4:9-16—“A Time for Holiday” 12/22: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15—“A Time to Give Thanks” 12/23: Ephesians 3:14-21—“A Time of Blessing” 12/24: Ephesians 2:4-10—“A Time for Gifts” 12/25: Luke 2:1-20—“God with Us”

8 // December 2015

Danielle Jennings is the director of children’s ministry at Ooltewah United Methodist. She is a graduate of Lee University and is currently working on her master’s degree. Her passion is working with children and helping them succeed.

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Gò0dNews on Money Matters

You Can’t Take It with You

Use sound judgment rooted in the Word of God when making money decisions. by Andrew Lee

ne of the many benefits of regularly reading the

with us. Some people read this and decide the best route

Holy Bible is that God has something to say to us

is to live their lives on a perpetual, giddy spending spree,

for any situation, and on practically any subject

buying and indulging in every impulse or whim. “After

we can think of. On the subject of desiring and acquiring wealth, the Bible reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:7, “For we

all,” they say, “you can’t take it with you!” I don’t think this is the proper response to our

brought nothing into this world, and we can take nothing

mortality, any more than I believe a life of sloth and apathy

out of it” (NIV). Furthermore, we are warned that “People

is the answer to avoid the temptation to build wealth.

who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and

Surely it’s possible to be a financially successful (even

into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men

wealthy) Christian without becoming either a selfish and

into ruin destruction. For the love of money is the root of

materialistic hyper-consumer, nor to become a miser who

all evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered

hoards every nickel.

from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” (vv. 9-10 NIV). By quoting these scriptures, I certainly do not intend

I’ve often told my children, with only a slight hint of irony, that money is only good for making someone else happy. That someone else may be the car salesman at the

to demonize wealth-building, investing, or saving for the

Mercedes dealership, the sales clerk at a fancy department

future; anyone who has read my articles here knows that’s

store; or it may be the hungry children in a Third-World

not the case. I’m a capitalist through and through, but I

country, or the single mom needing new shoes and school

believe the above scriptures speak to our motives and to

supplies for her children. All of these scenarios require

the spiritual state of our hearts as we pursue wealth and

money, and none of them is inherently wrong. The main

monetary gain in this life. As noted above, we can’t take it

difference in those scenarios is where our focus lies—on ourselves, or on others. Again, there’s a middle ground. I recently spent, what was to my mind, an obscene amount of money taking my sons to watch a professional football game at the stadium. Was this a selfish choice? Obviously, I don’t think so, but my opinion is rooted in a larger context. I rejoice in knowing that my family regularly tithes and contributes to various other charitable causes with our money—which is, after all, really God’s money. Knowing that, I didn’t feel it was wrong for us to enjoy the football game (though if you’ve seen the way the Tennessee Titans are playing . . . yikes). But if all of our God-given resources were spent solely on self-indulgence, I’m sure the situation would be different. Let’s use sound judgment and principles rooted in the Word of God when making money decisions, and then we can avoid the dilemmas that Paul explained in his letters to Timothy.

10 // December 2015

Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.

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Gò0dNews for Men 4 Parenting Lessons I Learned from My Dad Even busy dads can manage their time wisely and make their children a top priority.

by Darren Schalk

s I was putting my son to bed one evening, he looked

1. If it was important to me, it was important to him. I was

up at me and asked, “When can we spend more time

involved in a lot of sports, and Dad attended everything he

together . . . just you and me?” Although I quickly

possibly could. He missed one every now and then, but he’d find

realized that he was trying to manipulate me into letting him get

out all the details of what happened. He even coached many of the

out of bed so we could go play video games together, the question

teams I played on over the years.

still rang loudly in my ears. My wife and I have three kids. Our son is ten and our

2. He invested time in helping me be better. I remember Dad often dragging my brothers and me out of bed on Saturday mornings

identical twin girls are eight. I work full time in a ministry position

and haul us over to the ball field to hit a few grounders. I would

that requires some travel that can be time consuming. In fact, I’m

moan and groan about it, but looking back, it meant a lot for him to

working on this article from a foreign room where I’ll be spending

take the time to do that. It was only a few hours on a Saturday for

the next four days. I’m fumbling my way through the turbulent

him, but I still carry the memory.

“waters” of family, job, and travel as best as I can. So how do I make sure my wife and kids get the time they need and deserve? My dad was a pastor, so he was always on call. He was a good

3. At key moments, he showed me I was number one. We attended church every single time we had the chance (but we didn’t have much choice considering Dad was the pastor). But I can recall a

shepherd of his congregation. And although I recall him being

few times when Dad let me skip church for a game or even a night

gone quite often from our home, I never felt left out or abandoned.

out with friends. This may not sound like much now, but back then

So I’ve considered how he managed to balance his time and still

there was a different mindset when it came to church attendance.

make my three brothers and me a top priority. My ponderings

This simple act let me know that the church (i.e. Dad’s employer)

have helped me realize a few lessons that I’m implementing into

was not more important than me.

my own life.

4. When he did wrong, he apologized (once). There’s no doubt Dad made some mistakes, but the one that stands out the most isn’t because of the mistake, but because of the apology. We were an avid hunting family, and one year I received a permit to turkey hunt and Dad did not. He took me hunting and I got a turkey, but in his eagerness and desire to hunt, he also got a turkey. Thus, we ended up with two turkeys and only one was legal. Later that afternoon, he apologized for his actions, informing me that, in his excitement, he had acted improperly. I would never have thought twice of the incident, but that apology taught me a huge lesson. When we make mistakes (and we all will) be sure to right the wrongs. It also made me feel pretty important—Dad apologized to me. These are just a few things I’m trying to do with my kids. I fail regularly, but hopefully I can let them know that they are truly important to me, and I value every second I have with them. What are you doing to make sure your kids understand the same?

12 // December 2015

Darren Schalk is the curriculum editor for the Church of God of Prophecy and author of the book, Dear God We Need To Talk, from Charisma House. He has been featured on radio and television programs across the nation discussing topics of faith and discipleship. Learn more at DarrensChalk.com.

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Gò0dNews for Women

The Most Treasured Gift Is FREE

Gift-giving requires two responses; there must be a giver and receiver. by Melissa Noble Snyder

et’s be honest. Women of all ages have an innate

Then I focused on the promise and accepted the gift of

desire to receive gifts. Receiving a present can bring

peace He said was mine in John 14:27. “Peace I leave with

out the girlish giggle in a woman no matter her age.

you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world

Since this is a fact, why is the most valuable gift so hard for

gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be

us to accept—especially since it is a priceless treasure from

afraid” (NIV).

the One who loves us most and calls us His beloved? I am

Accepting the Gift Was Life Saving! This verse stirred

referring to the gift of peace from Jesus. It is real and it can

something in me I had never experienced before—hope

be yours.

and faith. I finally got it! Peace wasn’t out of my reach.

I love the Word of God and have always been able

It wasn’t an elusive; it was simple. All I had to do was

to tell others what the Word says about peace;. But many

receive. When I began speaking (out loud) John 14:27, I felt

times in my life I have longed for peace, not realizing

a warmth that delivered healing peace for my weary mind

all I needed to do was accept it. I felt as if peace was an

and aching body, healing all the cracks and holes fear had

elusive mystery just out of

formed in me.

my reach. Until a couple

The same day I re-

of years ago, I struggled

placed fear with peace, a

with personally knowing

friend said the Lord spoke

perfect peace that exceeds

to her, telling her to give

all understanding. During

me something. From her

an extremely difficult time

pocket she pulled out a sil-

in my life, I became desper-

ver charm that had a beau-

ate to know the peace I had

tiful cross on one side and

witnessed in others.

the word Peace engraved

During an agonizing

on the back. My friend

heartache, I came to a point

and I marveled at how our

of surrender and stopped

heavenly Father reassured

trying to manipulate the

me that His peace is a real

situation long enough to

gift. That day I promised

actually hear the loving

the Lord I would share

words of Jesus. He remind-

this story. He didn’t have

ed me that His peace is a gift, but it couldn’t be mine until

to give me a tangible gift, but I’m so glad He did. He is so

I received it. Can you picture Jesus offering you the gift of

good. He is so real!

peace? I decided to take a step of faith. I got alone with God

Now I understand what makes a gift a gift: there

and told Him I wanted the gift of peace He said is mine. In

must be a giver and a receiver. I encourage you to accept

my vision, I exchanged the heaviness of fear for His gift of

the treasured gift of peace from Jesus. When the fires and

peace. I literally clung to the promise of Isaiah 43:1-3 that

storms of life come, His peace will see us through to the

says, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called

other side and we will not even smell like smoke.

you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you” (NIV).

14 // December 2015

In her years of ministry, Melissa Noble Snyder has served in leadership roles in various areas which include counseling, teaching, social services, personal growth education, and Christian Life Coaching. As a writer/editor, she has written award-winning articles and has been recognized for her inspirational, faith-based advice column. Her greatest passion is her calling, which is to inspire women to live Christ-centered lives. She can be contacted at godgirlmelissa@gmail.com

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Chattanooga Church Directory Anglican

Anglican Church of the Redeemer 423.892.1101 104 McBrien Rd, 37411

Assembly of God

Calvary Church 423.629.1200 1212 South Seminole Drive, 37412 Fresh Fire Awakening 423.255.3103 Chattanooga, 37421

Baptist Bayside Baptist Church 423-344-8327 6100 Hwy 58 Harrison, TN 37416 Covenant Baptist Church 423.892.5542 1640 N. Joiner Rd, 37421 Duncan Park Baptist Church 706.899.3707 1609 Glowmont Dr, 37412 New Haven Baptist Church 423.855.4910 1058 Graysville Rd, 37421 Middle Cross Baptist Church 423.877.5742 4009 Norcross Rd, 37343 Heritage Baptist Church 423.499.5060 2934 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Ridgeview Baptist Church 423.899.1530 6 Moore Rd, 37411 Spring Creek Road Baptist 423.894.0700 1312 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 Alpine Baptist Church 423.875.3522 4720 Stagg Rd, 37415 Ashland Terrace Baptist Church 423.877.4392 906 Ashland Terrace, 37415 Avondale Baptist Church 423.344.2208 5479 Hwy 58, 37416 Bartle Baugh Baptist Church 423.344.5207 6129 Champion Rd, 37416 Berean Baptist Church 423.629.1634 1614 Kirby Ave, 37404 Bethel Baptist Church 423.875.9107 632 Lullwater Rd, 37405 Bethlehem Baptist Church 423.266.5484 101 Lawn St, 37405 Bible Way Baptist Church 423.624.2149

16 // December 2015

2003 Elmendorf St, 37406 Brainerd Baptist Church 423.624.2606 300 Brookfield Ave, 37411 Brainerd Hills Baptist Church 423.892.6645 6611 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Calvary Baptist Church 423.875.8154 5201 Dayton Blvd, 37415 Central Baptist Church 423.624.4678 901 Woodmore Ln, 37411 Charity Baptist Church 423.267.6576 2340 Rossville Blvd, 37408 Clifton Hill Baptist Church 423.867.4887 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Concord Baptist Church 423.892.9313 7025 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Brainerd Baptist Church 423.892.4235 1047 Graysville Rd, 37421 East Lake Baptist Church 423.698.1597 3315 12th Ave, 37407 East Ridge Baptist Church 423.698.2421 4201 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Edgewood Baptist Church 423.629.5821 3604 Ringgold Road, 37412 Empowerment Church 423.355.5576 1203 Blocker Lane, 37412 Faith Baptist Church 423.344.9712 8834 North Hickory Valley, 37416 Fellowship Baptist Church 423.894.8080 5335 Clemons Rd, 37412 First Baptist Church 423.265.2257 401 Gateway Ave, 37402 First Baptist Church 423.629.1950 1228 Latta St, 37406 First Baptist Church 423.265.3229 506 East 8th St., 37403 First Calvary Baptist Church 423.267.5159 300 Bell Ave, 37405 Grace Baptist Church 423.892.4869 7815 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Greater Beulah Baptist Church 423.624.0418 1301 Commerce St, 37404 Harmony Baptist Church

423.629.9660 3832 Youngstown Rd, 37406 Hickory Valley Baptist Church 423.892.1916 2320 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of the Highlands 423.493.4111 6621 Hunter Road, Harrison, TN 37341 Hillcrest Baptist Church 423.867.2812 3300 East 42nd St, 37407 Independent Baptist Church 423.875.3054 2624 Lyndon Ave, 37412 International Baptist Church 423.624.8638 1512 Old Ringgold Rd, 37404 Kings Point Baptist Church 423.624.5202 2834 Harrison Pike, 37403 Kingwood Baptist Church 423.624.7301 3522 Ringgold Rd, 37412 LifeSpring Baptist Church 423.892.8469 1701 Hickory Valley Road, 3742 Lighthouse Baptist Church 423.624.4125 3777 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Lookout Valley Baptist Church 423.825.5335 23 Lilac Ave, 37419 Macedonia Baptist Church 423.267.6915 1156 East Main St, 374081 Mission Ridge Baptist Church 423.624.0424 302 Shallowford Rd, 37411 Morris Hill Baptist Church 423.892.2071 1804 Morris Hill Rd, 37421 Mount Paran Baptist Church 423.629.2377 1319 Moss Dr, 37411 New Grace Baptist Church 423.899.5510 7861 Lee Hwy, 37421 Orchard Knob Baptist Church 423.629.6115 1734 East 3rd St, 37404 Philadelphia Baptist Church 423.629.5786 2230 East 18th St, 37404 Pilgrim Rock Baptist Church 423.894.7548 1726 Church Rd, 37421 Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 423.892.0237 1441 Crawford Rd, 37421 Prospect Baptist Church 423.698.4149 734 Dodson Ave, 37404

Resurrected Reformed Baptist 423.698.8086 2230 East 18th Street, 37404 Rose of Sharon Baptist Church 423.629.9534 2001 Blackford St, 37404 Second Baptist Church 423.629.6039 1619 East Main St, 37404 Shiloh Baptist Church 423.267.3131 1708 Carr St, 37408 Silverdale Baptist Church 423.892.2173 7236 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37421 Standifer Gap Baptist Church 423.892.8596 8159 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 Stanley Heights Baptist Church 423.867.8060 1512 Mcbrien Rd, 37412 Temple Baptist Church 423.622.1913 3200 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Terra Vista Baptist Church 423.892.3879 4412 Oakwood Dr, 37416 Tucker Baptist Church 423.510.9684 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Washington Park Baptist 423.899.9408 1823 Shepherd Rd, 37421 Westview Baptist Church 423.899.0127 9516 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Woodland Park Baptist Church 423.899.9185 6735 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421

Church of God East Chattanooga COG 423.894.7926 4924 Hwy 58, 37416 East Lake Church of God 423.698.6522 2949 East 29th St, 37407 Brainerd Hills Church of God 423.892.2092 410 Friar Rd, 37421 City Church of Chattanooga 423.894.6982 7122 Lee Hwy, 37421 Church of God of Prophecy 423.899.4074 3927 Webb Rd, 37416 Church of God of Prophecy 423.894.0597 2201 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of God Seventh Day 423.899.5490 7504 Old Lee Hwy, 37421 East Brainerd Church of God

423.899.4755 8312 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 The Crossing Church 423.867.7287 7501 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 East Side Church of God 423.624.8797 2105 Citico Ave, 37404 Fellowship Church of God 423.867.3194 3426 Clio Ave, 37407 Fourth Avenie Church of God 423.867.4545 3912 4th Ave, 37407 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Pure Holiness Church of God 423.622.4667 420 North Holly St, 37404 Redemption Point 423-855-7321 3831 Ooltewah-Ringgold Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Redemption Point Highland Park 423.855.7321 1907 Bailey Ave, 37404 Temple of Faith Church of God 423.698.2700 2139 East 27th 37407 United Temple Church of God 423.624.1037 2418 Dodson Ave, 37406 Vision Church of God 423.624.7170 4901 Midland Pike, 37411 Woodmore Church of God 423.899.0827 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407 Church of God in Christ

Nazarene Alton Park Church of the Nazarene 423.756.2468 4004 Dorris St, 37410 Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Brainerd Church of the Nazarene 423.499.8643 8101 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.894.8656 1202 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.624.2679

2099 East Main St, 37404

Community Church Cosmopolitan Community Church 423.622.3217 3031 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Friendship Community Church 423.698.3471 7 North Tuxedo Dr, 37411 Metropolitan Community Church 423.629.2737 1601 Foust St, 37404

Lutheran

Ascension Lutheran Church 423.698.5047 720 South Germantown Rd, 37412 First Lutheran Church Pastor Mark McCrory 423-629-5990; www.first4u.org 2800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran Rev. H. Christopher Sheets 423.629.4661 www.gslcflock.org 822 Belvoir Ave, 37412 Saint Phillip Lutheran Church 423.267.1475 51 West 25th St, 37408

Methodist Jones Memorial UMC 423.624.6073 4131 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Mount Crest UMC 423.881.4165 8206 Cicero Tr, 37421 St John UMC 423.892.2257 3921 Murray Hills Dr, 37416 Wesley Memorial UMC 423.892.6446 6314 E. Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge UMC Pastor Ken Sauer 423-892-8451; eastridgeumc.org 1601 Prater Road, East Ridge, TN 37412 Stanley UMC 423.624.6729 501 Dodson Ave, 37404 Washington Hills UMC 423.892.8050 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Cleveland Trinity UMC 423.892.6926 9028 Warbler Ln, 37421 East Lake UMC 423.624.4921 2903 East 37th St, 37407 St Elmo UMC 423.855.0807 3030 Towerway Dr, 37406 Lake Vista UMC 423.892.4941

6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Saint Mary CME Church 423.622.2742 1417 Wheeler Ave, 37406 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.855.2004 515 Airport Rd, 37421 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.698.4114 400 Glenwood Dr, 37404 Tyner UMC 423.892-0444 6805 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421

Non-Denominational Christian Family Church 423.774.8888 88 Hunt Drive Rossville, GA 30741 Celebration Church 423.892.8979 6425 Lee Highway, 37421 The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Metropolitan Tabernacle 423.894.3377 2101 West Shepherd Rd, 37422 Carpenters Cowboy Church 423.867.4232 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Brainerd Hills Chapel Church 423.899.3098 5931 Pinegrove Tr, 37421 Chattanooga Church 423.892.2888 6188 Adamson Circle, 37416 Christian Church of Hope 423.855.0767 2330 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of Jesus 423.629.5051 2118 Wilson St, 37406 Church of the First Born 423.756.0704 3418 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Church of the Lord Jesus 423.265.8235 200 West 19th St, 37408 Mount Summit of Peace Church 423.899.0434 6925 Shallowford Rd, 37421 New Covenant Church 423.867.2121 3700 Clio Ave, 37407 New Covenant Fellowship Church 423.899.8001 1326 North Moore Road, 37411 Walker Avenue First Church 423.622.2982 2101 Walker St, 37404 Worlds Church of the Living God

423.622.2992 2110 Glass St, 37406

Pentecostal Emanuel Pentecostal Church 423.821.5261 4204 Ohls Ave, 37410 Sharon Pentecostal Church 423.867.7088 1400 East 48th St, 37407 Virtuous Church Pastor Richard O. Smith 5952 Brainerd Road Chattanooga, TN 37412 (423)521-4440 www.virtuouschurch.org Word of Pentecost Church 423.624.2620 1722 Newton St, 37406

Presbyterian First Cumberland Presbyterian 423.698.2556 1505 North Moore Rd, 37411 Central Presbyterian Church 423.629.1401 1815 McCallie Ave, 37404 Covenant Presbyterian Church 423.899.5377 8451 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Presbyterian Church 423.867.2717 4919 Court Dr, 37412 First Presbyterian Church 423.267.1206 554 McCallie Ave, 37402 New Hope Presbyterian Church 423.892.0853 7301 Shallowford Rd, 37421 North Minster Presbyterian 423.894.3773 4791 Hal Dr, 37416 St Elmo Presbyterian Church 423.821.1424 4400 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Second Presbyterian Church 423.266.2828 700 Pine St, 37402

Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302

Seventh-Day Collegedale Community 4995 Swinyar Dr. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Hamilton County Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421

Wesleyan Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421

issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 17

FEATURED COVER STORY

End of Year Gifts

for End of Life Care

“I

by Kathleen Lakeland

had no idea!” said the lady, who by day is a professional in the world of finance and who, on

many hospice patients live longer than that. If a patient is old enough to qualify, the Medicare program will pay for 100 percent of hospice care.

this night, was attending a fundraiser for

A smaller percentage of patients are covered under

the local hospice foundation. “Until this

Medicaid, and even fewer have a commercial

moment, I don’t think I had ever thought

insurance plan that includes coverage for hospice.

about how it is paid for.” The reality is

“The reality,” says Mr. Mac, “is that more and more

that there was no reason for her to know,

people who are not yet old enough for Medicare are

until now.

dealing with diseases. They need hospice care, but

It was a simple invitation. A

they don’t have coverage.” That’s where the “thing”

professional colleague asked her to come

the lady attended comes into play. It was a fundraiser

along after work to this “thing,” which

for the Hospice of Chattanooga Foundation.

turned out to be a gathering of people who are supporters of Hospice of Chattanooga, this area’s oldest, largest, and most recognized provider of hospice services.

“For almost two decades, our foundation has been blessed by donations from thousands of people in the Tennessee Valley whose loved ones have been blessed by our care,” said Meg Beene, executive

Once at the reception, the lady learned so

director of the Hospice Foundation. “Once people

many things about what services are provided

understand our goal of making sure that everyone

to those who choose hospice. She had no idea that

who deserves hospice care gets it, then

Hospice of Chattanooga takes care of babies and

they (the donors) get it and

small children, that a special Hospice Care Center is

give.” In fact, many local

located off I-75, or that people of all ages can receive

businesses which share

hospice care. “Those,” says Garry Mac, an advocate

a desire to give back to

for hospice “are at the top of a long list of positives

this community, support

that people only seem to learn about once a loved

Hospice of

one is in the process of dying.”

Chattanooga.

Hospice, we learn, is not a place but rather a type

“It is not

of healthcare available to those who are diagnosed

uncommon

with cancer, COPD, congestive heart failure, or any

for us

number of issues that are going to result ultimately

to have

in death. To receive what is called “the hospice

provided

benefit,” a doctor determines that a patient has the

care to

likelihood of dying in six months or less, though

someone they

18 // December 2015

work with or with the loved one of their coworker,”

year, Hospice of Chattanooga will have hosted

said Beene.

and benefited from special events like golf

In 2016, Hospice of Chattanooga will mark its 35th

tournaments and an annual Gala; but December,

anniversary. It began as an all-volunteer organization

without a doubt, is when most people give to

shortly after the concept of hospice was introduced

make sure no one dies without hospice care

in America. With only a couple of nurses and a small

and that, with every patient, the hospice

office at the Hamilton County Health Department,

experience includes being surrounded by

Hospice of Chattanooga started providing services to

family and friends.

patients at Memorial and Erlanger hospitals. Under

People make donations because they

President Ronald Reagan, hospice was included

learn the truth that Hospice of Chattanooga

as a benefit paid by Medicare, and the demand for

makes sure every patient is in the middle

services grew quickly. Today Hospice of Chattanooga

of a circle of care that includes a doctor,

has almost 300 employees who serve thousands of

a nurse, a CNA, a chaplain, and a

patients a year in ten counties in Southeast Tennessee

bereavement counselor. “That group of

counties and eight counties in North Georgia.

medical professionals around the patient,”

Six years ago, the Hospice Care Center opened

says Mac, “makes an extremely difficult

off of Walker Road, just off I-75 at Bonny Oaks Drive

situation for your family a hundred

in Chattanooga. “We are unique in that respect,” says

percent better.”

Clark Taylor, CEO of Hospice of Chattanooga. “There

So we are all encouraged to consider

are other hospice organizations around here, but

making a December donation to the cause

none of them offers a facility for patients who need

of hospice. It’s easy enough; you can use

intensive symptom management with a warm and

your credit card to donate online at www.

welcoming home who accommodate family members.

hospiceofchattanooga.org, or mail a check to

“Sadly, people think hospice is only for old people who only have a week to live,” said the

Hospice of Chattanooga at 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Giving Facts Your Gift Counts

advocate, Mr. Mac. “We always talk about how a

patient can benefit by choosing hospice sooner, but

they are scared of it until they find out how we help

manage pain and symptoms so that the quality of us, ourbetter.” friends and family of what is leftMost of life isincluding so much members, will ultimately face a life-limiting This month is illness or a loss. when many End-of-life care is a special kind of care. Hospice people focus of Chattanooga is there for physical, emotional on most making and spiritual support at that precious time. charitable

As a community-based, nonprofit hospice, to afford we are also there for donations those who cannot hospice care, thanksprovide to the generosity of people services like you. This is why every dollar we receive to others.corporations, Yearfrom individuals, foundations, endand giving one is organizations, churches specialisevents appreciated and valued. of the biggest

• Contributions to Hospice of Chattanooga Foundation are deductible in the year made. Your gift, no mattercharged how largetoorasmall, Thus, donations creditmakes card before a difference: not only to our organization, but the end of 2015 count for 2015. This is true even if to the people who receive our care and support. the creditincard bill of isn’t paid untilis an 2016. Also, checks Investing Hospice Chattanooga investment in our community and shows your in 2015 and count for 2015 as long as they are mailed support for all those who live here. clear, shortly thereafter.

Every appreciated. • Once yougift haveisgiven to hospice, you will receive an acknowledgment letter and form that you Please consider giving a financial or memorial giftwill use through The Hospice of Chattanooga Foundation. when making your IRS filing. Call us at 423-892-4289 or donate online at • Donations made in memory of a loved one or a www.hospiceofchattanooga.org friend are so noted to the closet relative of the person who passed away.

fundraising periods for the local hospice

4411 Oakwood Drive • Chattanooga, Tennessee 37416

foundation. (423) 892-4289 • (800) 267-6828 Throughout the www.hospiceofchattanooga.org

issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19

Gò0dNews for Couples

Relationships That Last by Don Smith

“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” —Ephesians 4:32 (NASB)

hen a man loves a woman, he generally

partner with the same eyes of wonder as you did when

pursues her. He puts his best foot forward.

you first met; and if you didn’t then—do it now.

He showers, shaves (or trims), and uses

3. Be forgiving—do you know that you can’t

cologne. At the beginning, everything is cozy, kind,

possibly hold onto a grudge if you forgive? To

and wonderful.

forgive does not devalue your feelings, it causes your

As time progresses, you get familiar with one another, you don’t shower every day; you forget to

relationship to be cherished. 4. Be like Christ—even as Christ was being beaten

shave or trim; and think why waste money on cologne,

and crucified, He forgave those inflicting the pain.

just use it for special occasions. You don’t dress up

He knew in the end that He would be the victor, not

or clean up. Getting familiar is a let-down in a

the victim. Being like Christ will never be easy. It will

relationship, especially for the lady in that relationship.

always be challenging, but in the end it will give you

If you’ll look back at the scripture, there are four things we need to do in any relationship: 1. Be kind—being kind is paying attention, remembering the early days. You remember to open doors, give genuine compliments, and pay attention

what you really want—love, peace, and joy. My wife has exemplified this lifestyle before me for thirty-six years. I have not always been the most pleasant person to live with; however, she prayed for me, interceded for me, and

to changes, (i.e. haircuts, style changes, colors).

loved me when I didn’t deserve to be

Be aware of your partner’s outer shell.

loved. Did she do it perfectly? No. Did

Listen and speak as if you’re still

she do it consistently? No. But she did

dating. Be kind.

it enough to know that God was and is

2. Be tenderhearted—speak with your partner as you would

with her. It changed my life and gave me a reason to return to the land

have him or her speak to you.

of the living. Today I love

You know—the Golden

her more than I would have

Rule. We can hold back

expected anyone to be able to

our feelings, our love, our

love another human.

affection for some of the

Are our relationships

most selfish reasons. We

going to be perfect? No,

have no right to withhold

but they can be kind,

our love, feelings, or

tenderhearted, and forgiving.

emotions. Look at your

20 // December 2015

Donald E. Smith, Jr. M.Div., D.Min. Executive Director Hearts Set Free

Church Activities & Events Tennessee Pavilion

SHARE YOUR CHRISTMAS December 4, 2015

Our largest annual food drive. Visit us at the Tennessee Pavilion to share your Christmas and make the holidays brighter for our neighbors in need. Additional locations in Dalton and Cleveland.

The Roueche’ Chorale and Orchestra

Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols December 10 & 11, 2015 • 7pm at Covenant Presbyterian Church

The Roueche’ Chorale and Orchestra will present the Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols on Thursday and Friday, December 10th and 11th, 2015, at 7:00 PM at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 8451 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Admission is free. For more information, please see our website at www.therouechechorale.org.

HAPPY HANDS AT THE MALL Food Court at Hamilton Place Mall December 19, 2015 at 4:30 pm

This group has been meeting for several years in the Food Court at Hamilton Place Mall. We meet every Thursday with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. The group is open to all deaf, hearing, hard of hearing, students of sign, beginners of sign, and interpreters. Family friendly group, bring the kiddos, grab a bite, meet new friends, come sign with us!

LIST YOUR Church Activities & Events Special Events Such As... • Revivals • Cookouts • Concerts • Fundraisers • Etc. Email: brooke.goodnews@gmail.com

Gò0dNews for Life

The Reason for the Season No marketing ploys will prevent Christmas from living up to its name. by Delaney Walker

here is nothing quite as loud

worse than America’s rampant

not change the simple, enduring

as righteous indignation, or at

secularism. What I don’t understand

beauty of the holiday

least, people who feel they have

is why we expect a fallen world to

Jesus provides a depth to

something to be righteously indignant

celebrate a day designated to honor

the holiday season that is absent

about. Some Christians seem to feel

Christ’s birth. Honestly, I’m more

without His presence. As far as I am

a need to defend Christmas against

concerned about the Christians who

concerned, the more materialistic

every conceivable attack. Take, for

take affront to any attack on the

the holiday becomes, the starker the

example, Starbucks’ red holiday cup

traditional Christmas.

divide between how Christians and

fiasco. People lost their minds on

I celebrate Christmas because

the world celebrates Christmas. Those

social media because they thought it

my Savior was born of a virgin over

who celebrate the holiday with their

should read Christmas. Some even said

2,000 years ago. He lived for thirty-

hearts focused on Christ experience

they felt the minimalist cup was an

three years spreading the good word,

a more joyful holiday than even the

attack on the holiday.

healing the sick, and sowing into His

richest secular household could hope

disciples before dying on a cross for

to match.

Although I find the fear baseless, I do understand the concern. I was once

my sins. On the third day, He rose

afraid the world would continue to

again and intercedes on my behalf at

own. It is an enduring happiness

place so much emphasis on gifts that

the right hand of the Father until the

independent of life’s circumstances.

the true reason for the reason would

day He returns again. He is the reason

It is a beacon to those who have a

be lost under a pile of green, shiny

for the season.

decided lack in their lives. Christians

bows and festive wrapping paper.

If you take away the gifts, the

Joy is a feeling in a league of its

would do better to bypass the online

I have since changed my mind. No

parties, the holiday movies, and

rants in favor of sharing the reason for

amount of marketing ploys, discounts,

the eggnog, there is still a feeling of

the season (and the reason for their joy

or glittery decorations will stop

jubilation associated with Christmas.

this time of year). Jesus will take care

Christmas from living up to its name.

God gave us the greatest gift in His

of the rest.

History proves that Christmas,

Son, Jesus Christ, and His gift is

which was created in response to

irreversible. A red minimalistic coffee

popular pagan holidays, has survived

cup or exaggerated materialism will

22 // December 2015

Delaney Walker is the development director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center. She is an avid fan of reading, exercising, and making silly faces at babies in the grocery store.

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Cleveland

423-473-4610

1150 E 14th Street • Chattanooga, TN Tuesday - Friday Saturday 9 Highway a.m. - 5–p.m. 9 a.m. 4 p.m. 4605 N. Lee Tues.-Sat…10 a.m.-5-p.m.

423.634.1004

300 Grove Avenue, SW– Mon.-Sat…10 a.m.-5 p.m.

FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • DOORS • WINDOWS • LIGHTING • CABINETS • PAINT SUPPLIES

EOE

Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Stay on Your Fitness Path by Lindsey Cooke

e have all been there. We wake up, work out, watch what we eat, and drink lots of water. We plan our days around going to the gym and planning out our meals for the next week. We do well with it. Until the holidays arrive. What do we do then? Do we take a break from our strenuous everyday schedules or find a way to continue them? Are the holidays the one time every year we are thankful for joining a gym that is a national chain? What do you do? We have all heard the saying that everything is okay in moderation. And I think that this is the best way to do it when Thanksgiving and Christmas come around. And, if you have family that come to town or that you visit, it is always fun to spend some time with family in the gym! Try something different that you haven’t done before, like that Zumba class you’ve been wanting to go to, or trying that new at-home workout you’ve had for months but haven’t done.

24 // December 2015

Do you need something to make you stay on your fitness path? Why not schedule a race, such as a 5K for after the holidays, in order to have a goal to reach. How can you reach these goals? 1. Get your workout in in the morning! Get your blood flowing and have an amazing start to your day! 2. Allow for some “cheat meals” during the holidays. 3. Find someone to hold you accountable and do the same for them! 4. Plan! Plan! Plan! Plan your workouts. This will help you get them in, spend time with your family, and find time to do all the things you need to do! 5. Don’t let the little hiccups you have affect your big picture. If you fall, get back up! “Always pray and never give up” (read Luke 18:1).

Lindsey Cooke is the administrative assistant for Cooke's Food Store & Pharmacy.

Walter L. Crox Walter L. Crox

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Gò0dNews for Teens

Real Gifts

Embrace the greatest commandment and express love through your gift giving this Christmas. by Andrew Shaffer et’s be real. Christmas is about giving gifts. Whether

about us. We can dish out gift cards left and right, but we

you are a traditional gift-giver or an advocate for

aren’t giving anything by punching people over lattes and

alternatives, such as donations, supporting causes,

Xboxes. Do we want that in equal measure?

and so forth, we celebrate the coming of God in human

It’s not just the gift; it’s what you give. Each

form by giving to others. As Christ-followers though,

year we host an event called “Lydia’s Market” in our

we should be giving 365 days, 52 weeks a year. So at

atrium, partnering with more than thirteen ministries/

Christmas time, we embrace the greatest commandment

organizations from Nashville to Africa, allowing all those

and express this love through gifts. Advent is the

who participate an opportunity to give. Purchases helped

anticipation of the gift of Christ himself, and we respond

craftswomen and men across the world work toward self-

by giving gifts of our own. Jesus said in Luke’s Gospel

sufficiency, yet they’re still gifts for someone.

that what we give, we will get back in equal measure. Giving begets giving; we give because we received. As I am writing this, for reasons no one can fully

The market’s mission statement says, “We are called to empower ALL GOD's people.” Whether we donate to Heifer International or buy a new iPhone, isn’t this

explain, folks are causing a ruckus because red coffee

what giving should be about if we claim to follow Christ?

cups have some sort of detrimental effect on our

Rather than arguing about suitable decor or proper

celebration of the birth of the Christ Child. Yet, the day

phrasing, we give gifts that empower while serving to

after we give thanks for what we have, some of those

inspire. Whether buying or giving, we lean into these

same people whose vehicles are festooned with “Keep

holy days and try to ensure that the unfailing love of a

Christ in Christmas” stickers, will trample others to save $50 on a television and spend thousands of dollars on things they don’t need. In the midst of it all, the same people will decry a perceived war on Christmas because people use Xmas, teach children about Santa, and say “Happy Holidays.” I don’t care what kind of spin you put on it; this isn’t the right kind of giving. I’m hard pressed to find the person of Christ in any of that.

glorious God outshines everything else. So whether we wish a “Happy Xmas,” an emphatic “Merry Christmas!” or even “Happy Holidays,” and before we bulldoze our neighbor for a finding a deal on a coffee pot, let’s remember that true giving is the joy of Christmas. It’s the challenge of asking what we really give by seeking the interests of others over our own and the joy of encountering the Christ Child as we rediscover a Christmas about real gifts.

Giving should be about others; these kinds of displays are all

26 // December 2015

Andrew Shaffer is the minister to youth and their families at First Baptist Dalton, GA. He is a graduate of Mississippi State, Samford and Truett Seminary. He has worked in youth ministry one way or another since 2000, and has been bitten by an otter.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

The Best Gifts

This Christmas give someone the greatest gift of all—the gift of your time! by Karen Brummer

ach year the holiday season brings about the eternal

important. Frequently, this level of maturity brings about a

conundrum of, “What do I buy for the people on my

renewed appreciation for nature, a stronger bond with friends

list?” For some, the answer is easier than for others.

and family, perhaps more emphasis on spiritual relationships,

Children are apt to be panting for whatever is advertised on

and most of all, a new awareness of how fleeting our time is

television. Teens love money and electronics. Jewelry and tools

along with a new respect for its limitations.

may be an easy choice for adult couples, but what about the

Unfortunately, all too often at this stage of life when

seniors? Typically, they have a lifetime of possessions: all the

friends and family have a heightened significance in their

appliances, tools, and gadgets they need; more jewelry and

lives, the opportunities to spend quality time with them

clothes than they ever wear; and perhaps a waning desire for

diminish dramatically. Friends and loved ones may have

much of anything you buy.

passed on, leaving an individual living at home alone. In

So must that leave you empty-handed? Not at all!

today’s fast-paced lifestyle with work obligations, civic

When you think back on the best times of your life, what do

involvement, a plethora of youth activities—on top of school

you remember? Are you remembering the best shirt or the

demands, or perhaps being among “the sandwich generation,”

newest gadget? Likely not. You’re probably remembering an

there is little time left for that senior who is living at home

experience—a time you spent with someone. And therein lies

alone. One more of life’s paradoxes is this: When we have time

the key . . . someone, not something.

to spend with those we love, those we love may be too busy

Throughout life, as we mature, our values change. In our latter adult years, the evolution is further refined. Typically, the race for accomplishment, and “keeping up with the Joneses,” becomes less

for us. So back to the gift question. In considering the information offered above, what could be a better gift for anyone, but particularly for a senior individual, than the gift of time? I suggest the answer is nothing. To spend time with a person, focused on the individual with no distractions, says, “You have value.” And don’t we all want to feel we are valuable? Yes! In 1943, Dr. Abraham Maslow published his research citing man’s Hierarchy of Needs, which remains the gold standard in understanding humans. The need for belonging and feeling important to someone was among the three highest needs of human beings. So why not give someone the greatest gift of all—the gift of feeling valued, the gift of your time! At The Terrace at Mountain Creek, we recognize this need and love sharing our time and attention with the wonderful seniors residing with us. Try it yourself and experience the reward of having given the best gift of all!

28 // December 2015

Karen Brummer is the community relations liaison at The Terrace at Mountain Creek, where she can show her passion for seniors. She not only educates the public on the many aspects of senior living, but she also has a rich history of face-to-face contact with prospects, residents, and their families. This experience, combined with her real-life role of daughter to parents in their 80s, gives her firsthand understanding of seniors and the challenges they face.

In 1973, Don Britton quit his job at the dealership as a Certified Master Technician and went in business for himself. The main motivation was the lack of future to provide for his family and the lack of integrity at the dealerships where he had worked at. Don was tired of seeing customers sold things they did not need and being overcharged for work they did need. That was 41 years ago. Over the last 41 years, Don has built the business into a well known and well respected auto repair facility, specializing in all types of auto repair, scheduled maintenance, preventative maintenance and especially automatic transmissions on all makes/models of vehicles. East Ridge Transmission & Total Car Care is a large shop with 9 technicians, 2 service advisors, a customer service receptionist, a full time bookkeeper, a maintenance technician and two customer care drivers to pick up and deliver customers and vehicles. And of course Don is there every day to makes sure everything goes well for everyone, especially the customer. If you have not been satisfied with your vehicle service at other shops, please consider ERT as your one stop shop. We do everything from oil changes, to tires, to engines, to transmissions, to brakes, to tune ups, to electronic problems, to emissions and much, much more. We take care of our customers and everything concerning their vehicles! Our specialty is customer service-‐-‐-‐-‐We care about how you feel and what you really need! Don has built this business on integrity, quality work and exceptional customer care. If you begin a relationship with ERT, you will never have to go the dealership or any other shop again for scheduled maintenance or after warranty repairs. Our Google rating is virtually a 5 star and our BBB rating is an A+. Don has built ERT and his life on the principles of God.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Divine Friendship Real friendships will always call you to a higher standard.

by Tyler Shores

roverbs 17:17 states, “A friend loves at all times, and

Through the birth of Jesus, God came to us as we were

a brother is born for a time of adversity” (NIV). The

and took all it means to be human into Himself. He saw us

Bible presents a grand story of relationship and

both at our best and our worst, and He demonstrated love

friendship between God and humanity. That friendship is

to us despite it all. In that love, like the best of friends, He

best demonstrated in the life of Jesus, and with His birth,

entered into our space through the humble birth of Jesus.

this took a giant step forward. In what follows, I want to

Jeremiah speaks of a reality for which God longs for a

point out two key aspects of friendship that God shows

time when God and God’s people can be together without

through Jesus.

anything standing in the way (see 31:33-34). At Christmas

First, real friendship meets you where you are. It is said that a good friend will bail you out of jail, but your best of friends will share your cell. The truth of this

time, we celebrate a giant step toward that reality, and that step was made by God. The second key aspect is that a real friendship will

statement is friendship shares in all that life gives both

always call you higher. I am fortunate to have friends who

good and bad. Those I consider my closest friends are the

call me to a higher standard when we both know that I

ones who were there with me in one way or another no

can and should do better. While the coming of our Lord

matter my circumstances. When life was good, they would

is a testament to the love of God, it is also a revelation of

celebrate with me. When the road became difficult, we

the hope God has for us. He has already shown Himself

would cry and lament together. No matter what life threw

to be one of the best of friends by entering our space and

at me, they were there sharing in my world and being with

“sharing our cell,” but He took a step further when in

me exactly where I was in that moment.

His life and in His death He called us higher to live better and to be more like Him—something He knows we can do. This friendship continues today by the work of the Holy Spirit who is described by the Gospel of John as the Advocate, the one who is on our side. The birth of Jesus is the bold statement of a dear friend letting us know that He will not give up on us. May the reality of God’s friendship with humanity be revealed to each of us in special way as we celebrate the birth of the King, our Divine Friend. May we be challenged to reach greater heights as we ponder this move of divine friendship.

30 // December 2015

In both vocation and study, Tyler Shores and his wife, Jamie, desire to see the theory and practice of the Christian faith come together in the life of the believer and in the local church. Tyler currently works in the Lee University Leonard Center providing support and training to student leaders engaged in service on a daily basis. He is also enrolled in the graduate program at Lee seeking a Master of Arts in Theological Ethics. You can follow Tyler on twitter @tyler_shores.

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Gò0dNews for Parents

GOOD NEWS FROM THE JUNGLE Demonstrate your trust and faith in the Lord to your children by reading the Word.

by Mark Aitkenhead

arenting today is sometimes like being in a jungle.

As believers in Jesus Christ, we discovered that

There’s always something happening in our

daily reading of the Scripture is vital. We discovered this

homes with our children; and as parents, we need

remarkable scripture: The greatest commandment “that

the wisdom of God to navigate these amazing days we

you may fear the Lord your God, to keep all His statutes

live in.

and His commandments which I command you, you

Here’s some great news: As you build your family,

and your son and your grandson, all the days of your

nurturing and developing the treasures the Lord has

life, and that your days may be prolonged. Therefore

entrusted to you, remember that you are a steward over

hear, O Israel, and be careful to observe it, that it may

your children. See your kids, firstly, as God’s beloved

be well with you, and that you may multiply greatly as

children. When you see them from a more objective

the Lord God of your fathers has promised you—‘a land

point of view, you are less likely to be irritated by their

flowing with milk and honey.’ Hear, O Israel: The Lord

childishness and become more patient as they learn to be more like Christ. A huge realization is to know that you are your children’s first teachers and examples. Your children witness your attitudes and preferences—they will mirror them. As you learn to walk with your hand in

our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in

God’s hand, cleaving to His Word,

your house, when you walk by

you will demonstrate your trust and

the way, when you lie down,

faith in the Lord to your children.

and when you rise up” (Deut.

Have a couple of clear family character goals for your family. Make these goals fun, and celebrate

6:2-7 NKJV). A brilliant way to impart this wisdom to your family is by

when your children achieve them.

reading a chapter of the Book of

In our family, our goals are to be

Proverbs every day. Each month

“gentle, loving, kind, and wise.”

has up to 31 days; there are 31

When we model being gentle (Pro.

chapters in Proverbs.

15:1), loving (John 13:34), kind

Be a good example, read the

(Pro. 31:26) and wise (Pro. 4:7), our

Word of God daily as a family

children imitate us. The wisdom

and set some family goals.

of God is opposite to the wisdom of the world. God’s wisdom is superior, because it takes the position of viewing life from God’s point of view (Isa. 55:9).

32 // December 2015

Dr. Mark Aitkenhead is a pastor, business owner and family man. He loves God with all his heart and loves people.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Need to See Jesus! Insight for you and me during this Christmas season by William Lamb

y daughter-in-law, Megan, has an unfaltering loyalty

for you and me during this Christmas season—the need to see

about Christmas—so much so that I think she

Jesus. Two men, one rich and one poor, one physically blind

secretly celebrates the Christmas spirit even during

and one spiritually blind, one dependent on others and one self-

other seasonal holidays. Her joy for Christmas is definitely contagious. I recently participated in a dialogue with some friends

sufficient; but each with the same need and desire to see Jesus. I must admit it; I think the scrooges of our society view the contagiously joyful “Megans” as zealots. But when you know

about the impact Jesus made on a chief tax collector, recorded

the real story, you know the reason for the celebration. I know

in the Zacchaeus story found in Luke 19:1-10. The following

her story. I know how Megan was healed from a rare disease

thoughts emerged from that conversation:

that sidelined her soccer career; how her willingness to forgive

• Zacchaeus must have heard about Jesus many times before the day he saw Him. • Jesus cared enough for Zacchaeus to invite Himself over for dinner.

replaced the feeling of being disserted; and how her past pain became her platform to care for others. Maybe Megan’s story relates to you or maybe not. Maybe you are like the blind beggar or a shrewd business owner.

• Zacchaeus was transformed by his encounter with Jesus

Perhaps you are the official crowd quieter-downer, the scrooge,

so much so that he was convicted of his wrong doing

or even the oppressed, but each with the same need—the need

and willfully committed to make restitution a reality.

to see Jesus.

• Like Zacchaeus, we should do whatever it takes to see Jesus and bring others along on the journey. In the previous chapter of Luke (18:35-43) Scripture illustrates a blind man’s encounter with Jesus. As was common in His ministry, a crowd usually accompanied Jesus while in the public forum. Obviously, the crowd included disciples and naysayers. It also included the broken, the lame, the sick, and even the blind. Such was the case as Jesus was coming near Jericho. In Luke’s Gospel, the story reveals that a blind beggar,

Here are three steps that could help move you past a commercialized societal-infused Christmas to a visible encounter with the Messiah: 1. Cry out like the blind beggar and say to Jesus, “Have mercy on me.” 2. Climb a tree like Zacchaeus to overcome the masses so you can see Jesus. 3. Believe like Megan in the presence of your pain and you, too, can know the Messiah. Have a joyous Christmas!

hearing the noisy crowd, asked what was happening. When he was told that Jesus was passing by, the blind man cried out loud for mercy. It seems to me that could be a common need in these two stories. I think this a need that provides insight

34 // December 2015

Dr. William Lamb is a member of the administrative staff at Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) where he leads a diverse and global “service-learning” program for college students. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. William and his wife Angela, along with their children Tyler and Megan, Nick, and Ben, reside in Cleveland, TN.

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