Gò0dNews December 2016
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About Us
Writers
Andrew Lee Angie Parris Bethany Ruckman Carl Corser Delaney Walker Emily Bangura Esmerelda Lee Fernando Alejandro Hannah Davis John Garrod Julius McCarter Mike Shreve Rhiannon Skeen Robert Green Rusty Asble
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 four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. 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
O
ne of the most popular Christmas songs says, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.” Because of the things we have to do during the holiday season—shopping, decorating, attending banquets, parties, and other church activities—sometimes Christmas includes everything but joy. So do we really celebrate Christ’s coming with joy? A few years ago I read a book by Jeff Walling titled Daring to Dance With God that explained how we discover early in life the importance of holding on to something—our mother’s hand, the coffee table, or anything else our little hands can grasp. This insecurity is seen later in life as we cling to control and security for all we’re worth. We clutch power and property till our knuckles turn white. So the very act of celebrating demands that we first let go of everything else and take God’s hand. When we do, three things must be released before the dancing can begin. 1. We must let go of fear. But where shall I put this fear if I do let go of it? The apostle Peter encourages us to put it in the only place that’s fitting—the Father’s hand. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (5:6-7). 2. We must let go of the reins. The moment we truly let go and give God control is when we feel the joy and release that only comes when we’re no longer in charge. Releasing control brings freedom, energy, and drive to dance in celebration with the One to whom we’ve resigned the wheel. 3. We must let go of guilt. Feeling guilty and dancing are mutually exclusive activities. Dancing is joyous by nature; guilt is depressing by nature. This may sound easier to do than letting go of the reins, but many Christians find it the most difficult release of all. When we fall, He goes to great lengths to restore us to an upright position—but only if we take His hand. If we adopt an “I’d-rather-do-it-myself” attitude, we block His hand from rescuing us. Even if our knees are bruised from stumbling and our shins bloody from unexpected tumbles, we can depend on Him to correct every “misstep,” because He loved us enough to become one of us. So during this Christmas season, go ahead . . . celebrate! Accept His hand. The dance floor is empty and He’s waiting for you!
December 2016
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Are All Believers Called to Be SAINTS? by Mike Shreve GoodNews for Kids The Shepherds Journey to Welcome the Christ Child by Carl Corser GoodNews on Money Matters “What if We Gave Every Baby $1,000?” by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men Who Wants to Be a Caveman? by Robert Green GoodNews for Women Who Am I? by Rhiannon Skeen GoodNews for your Taste Buds Christmas and Chocolate by Angie Parris GoodNews for Parents In the Eyes of God, Not the World by Bethany Ruckman GoodNews for Health & Fitness Habits of Healthy Couples by Hannah Davis GoodNews for Teens Teens and Their Family Lives by Fernando Alejandro GoodNews for Seniors Looks like Miss Daisy’s turn to take the wheel by Esmerelda Lee GoodNews for Everyone The World Is Made Holy through Thanks by Julius McCarter GoodNews for Couples Picking Your Team by John Garrod GoodNews for Life Faithful to Her Promise by Delaney Walker GoodNews from the Outdoors Take a Kid Hunting by Rusty Asble
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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 Are All Believers Called to Be SAINTS?
T
by Mike Shreve
he word saint has traditionally been used to refer only to Christians who reach a high degree of dedication to God. However, the following scripture throws the gate wide open all those who love the Lord: “To the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be SAINTS, with all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours (1 Cor. 1:2 NKJV).” In this verse, three simple criteria are offered for “sainthood”: (1) Belonging to “the church of God”—The word church is from the Greek word ecclesia (pronounced ek-klay-see’ah) meaning called-out ones. Therefore, it is comprised of all those who have been truly called out of a life of sin into a life of consecration to God; (2) Being “sanctified in Christ Jesus”—The word sanctified has a double meaning: first, being cleansed from the defilement of sin, and second, being dedicated to the purposes of God; (3) Calling on “the name of Jesus”—in other words, living a life of daily communion with the Savior of all mankind. So all who have been born again, regardless of denominational affiliation, are not only invited, but included in “the assembly of the saints” (Ps. 89:5 NKJV). Wow! In an age of much spiritual compromise, isn’t this a challenging idea to embrace?
6 // December 2016
SANCTIFIED PEOPLE BECOME SAINTS
Sainthood and sanctification are inseparably interwoven, because a saint is simply someone who is sanctified. This initially comes as a gift from God. As soon as we confess Jesus as Lord of our lives, a number of sanctifying influences work together to present us “holy unto the Lord.” At that glorious moment of spiritual rebirth, we are: • “sanctified by the truth” (Jn. 17:19 NKJV) • “sanctified by faith” (Ac. 26:18 NKJV) • “sanctified by the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim. 4:5 NKJV) • “sanctified . . . in the name of the Lord” (1 Cor. 6:11 NKJV) • “sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Heb. 10:10 NKJV). • “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” (Ro. 15:16 NKJV) • “sanctified by God the Father” (Jude 1:1 NKJV) • “sanctified” by the blood of Jesus (Heb. 13:12 KJV) However, claiming sainthood from the very start of our walk with God is almost like asserting that an acorn is really an oak tree. It is, but it isn’t. It may have the identity and the potential, but to really be an oak tree in a manifested way, that acorn has to “fall into the ground and die,” then spend a good deal of time growing (see John 12:24). And so it is with us. All believers have the identity and the inheritance of being saints, but to really be saints in a valid and viable way (to fully realize this inner potential), we must die to self, die to the world, and die to sin. Then we must spend a good deal of time growing in God, yielding to His nature and fulfilling His will. Then we emerge in the very character of the “King of saints” Himself (Rev. 15:3 NKJV). This should be our goal every single day.
Mike Shreve has been teaching God’s Word since 1971. He has authored 14 books including the best-selling “65 Promises from God for Your Child” and a new book on the names and titles of God's people, titled “WHO AM I? Dynamic Declarations of Who You Are in Christ.” He and his wife, Elizabeth, pastor The Sanctuary in Cleveland, TN. www.shreveministries.org
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Gò0dNews for Kids The Shepherds Journey to Welcome the Christ Child Viewed by “Little Lamb” by Carl Corser
I
t was a crystal clear night as our shepherds were watching
excitement, "Let's go to Bethlehem to see this wonderful baby
us, keeping a close eye on us, making sure no harm came
the angels told us about!"
near us. Then suddenly, someone appeared out of nowhere.
He looked similar to my shepherds, but I knew he couldn't be a shepherd. I heard my shepherds saying words of astonishment
Suddenly, I heard my shepherds call out, "Come on, sheep and lambs! Let's go find this baby, the Christ child." So we went on our journey to find this wonderful baby.
and shock. Instantly, this brightness came and shone all around
When we got there, I heard my shepherds say one to another,
them. All my shepherds gathered together with fear griping
"Sure enough, this is exactly what the angel told us."
their hearts to find out what was happening. Then I heard them say, "What do you want from us?" "I'm an angel of the Lord from above. I bring good tidings
"The angel said we would find him here, and here He is. Isn't He a beautiful baby? Mom and Dad's eyes are gleaming with joy. God hath given them the Promised One."
of great joy. Be not afraid. There's nothing
The shepherds told everyone around about
wrong. Calm down. Take it easy."
the surprise visit they had out in the
I saw their faces relax and a
pasture. They explained all that the
peaceful calm came upon them as
angel said to them and about the big
the angel shared with my shepherds
host of angels that sang so clearly,
the terrific news. "A baby is born
"Glory to God in the highest, and on
today in David's city—a Savior,
earth, peace, good will toward men."
Christ the Lord."
As our shepherds finished
As all this was happening,
telling the wonderful story,
my fellow lambs gathered around
I saw everyone's eyes filled
with their attention focused on our
with amazement and joy. It was
shepherds. Wow! What a sight!
a beautiful sight for us lambs to
The angel continued to tell my
behold.
shepherds that they would find the
Our shepherds stayed for a while,
baby wrapped in warm clothing, lying in a manger at the stables. Suddenly, as the angel finished speaking the terrific news,
and then I heard the call again: "Let's go back to the pasture!" But this time my shepherds were singing, praising, and
there was lots of someones appearing that looked like the
glorifying God in the highest for all the things they had seen
angel, and they made noise. I saw my shepherds flinch with
and heard. They rejoiced during the complete journey back to
surprise again. We, too, were ready to run for fear.
the pasture.
Soon the noise became clear and I heard them saying,
You know, there was something different about my
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will
shepherds from this exciting event. They were so gentle with
toward men" (Luke 2:14 KJV). That means peace and goodwill
us. They protected us more diligently from danger than they
toward my shepherds. Listen, lambs; that will benefit us too.
had before. If everyone could see Jesus like my shepherds did,
Well, the excitement was soon over, because all the angels left, disappearing into the night sky. "Where did the angels go?"
they too would be different people. Thank you, Lord, for this wonderful, wonderful event.
I asked, but, my question was left unanswered. My shepherds began saying to one another with
8 // December 2016
Carl Corser is an Ordained bishop, vice president of the Gideons Cleveland North Camp, Peach State board of directors and Chaplin, owner of Corser Enterprises Roll-Off and A+ Sheet Metal.
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“What if We Gave Every Baby $1,000?” MONEY MATTERS WITH DR. ANDREW LEE
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.
S
ome may remember an ambitious economic pro-
source of income. If $15,000 annually is your main source
posal back in the 1990’s called “KidSave.” KidSave
of income, that’s a pretty lean retirement. Besides keep-
was one proposal to save our broken Social Security
ing the lights on and buying groceries, you’re not doing
system which is rapidly facing insolvency unless significant
much else. Let’s assume that the average retiree receives
changes are made. The idea of KidSave was for the govern-
those Social Security checks every month over a 20-year
ment to invest $1000 for every newborn baby, and then
retirement. That’s only about $330,000-$350,000 even after
allow that money to grow during the baby’s entire working
adjusting for the cost-of-living increases over those years.
lifetime until age 67. What could be the result? That’s the
In other words, the KidSave proposal would provide our
exciting part: assuming the $1000 was invested in a broad
children and grandchildren with roughly twice the amount
stock market index fund that included large, midsize, and
of money in retirement as our current Social (in)Security
small companies, both U.S. and international, how large
program. Opponents of the KidSave idea may skeptically
could the account balance grow from that tiny $1000 initial
suggest that these investment accounts might not attain
investment, assuming the markets meet their past averages
their annual ten percent average total returns in the future.
over the last century of approximately ten percent annual
Fair enough. But think about the perils of doing nothing:
return? The answer is nearly $600,000. Imagine if every
any accountant with a working calculator can show you
American (starting with the newborns today) had $600,000
that the current Social Security program will be able to pay
in an account when he or she retired. Even adjusted for in-
out only 75% of benefits starting in the next decade or two.
flation, that’s a lot of money. Let’s compare this proposal to
So imagine those monthly Social Security checks decreased
our current situation. The average net worth of all Ameri-
by one-fourth moving forward. Ouch.
cans today is merely $37,000 per person. This includes all of
So why didn’t the KidSave idea ever become law?
the billionaire, ultra-rich people. If you exclude billionaires,
That’s hard to say, but it would make for a fascinating
the average net worth drops tremendously. Furthermore,
book idea or research project (maybe some of my students
the average Social Security check today is only $1300 per
can be persuaded to research this for their research topic
month, or $15,000 per year. Remember, that’s an “average,”
coming up). The idea had broad support in Congress from
meaning many people receive less than this. And nearly
both Democrats and Republicans. Obviously, I think it’s a
61% of current retirees say Social Security is their main
wonderful idea that should at least be given a chance. My
10 // December 2016
kids are worth it. Are yours?
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Gò0dNews for Men
Who Wants to Be a Caveman?
We need a new breed of men, cave dwellers, who are ready to throw off mainstream society’s chains and stigmatisms and embrace the ideals of God-given manhood. by Robert Green
C
aveman? Not the Fred Flintstone kind or the club-carrying,
over her, but sacrificially gives himself fully to her by laying his life
spear-hunting, cave-painting, Neanderthal of a man. I’m
down in service to her. This is the highest and most honorable form
referring to the disillusioned band of misfits who followed
of leadership, and it finds its origin in Christ’s passionate sacrificial
David, the giant slayer, into the Cave of Adullam and came out as “Men of Valor” (see 1 Sam. 22). This cave was where David sought
love for the church in that He gave His life for it. 2. The “spiritual caveman” is marked by growing through
refuge from Saul who was on a search-and-destroy mission to kill
accountability. Isolation is the first sign of a dying man. Biblical
him. It turns out that David passed up several opportunities to kill
masculinity is not afraid of transparency and vulnerability
Saul while hiding out in this cave. These bandits found rest in the
that comes through accountability. Men who seek the cave are
cave and experienced a powerful transformation as they morphed
submitted to a band of brothers who flee from isolation and seek
into “Mighty Men.” This brotherhood of spiritual cavemen became
connection. Cave dwellers are men who have found freedom in
renowned throughout Israel for their deeds of valor. If ever there is a
confession and understand that, in their weakness, Christ can be
time in history that manhood needed the cave, it’s now!
made strong. They sharpen their blades with other men before
Listen to David as he is giving his son Solomon his dying words and exhortation of manhood in 1 Kings 2:1-3: “As David’s time to die drew near, he charged Solomon his son, saying, I am going the way of all the earth. Be strong, therefore, and show yourself a man” (NASB). Authentic manhood has been under attack for many decades, and this present generation has traded the cave for comfort and convenience. The
they go off to battle (see Pro. 27:17). They are open to correction and rebuke because they know that it will help them “. . . stand firm in the faith” (1 Cor. 16:13 NASB). 3. The most identifiable mark of cave dwellers is they are marked by love. Paul gives the men in Corinth a pointed command toward biblical masculinity that comes across almost like a rapid-fire burst of directives in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. Verse 14
entertainment industry and the press have marginalized
conveys that the power of manhood is wrapped up in
and portrayed men as buffoons, mama’s boys, and
his ability to love deeply. He says, “Let all that you do
worse. Sadly, many men have quietly bought into
be done in love.” This is the real litmus test for biblical
these characterizations, giving up their status as
manhood. The call is to do everything in love. This
leaders, providers, and champions of worthy causes.
means to discipline our children in love. It means to
Worse yet, the church has feminized its rituals and has
treat aliens and foreigners with love. It means to treat
emasculated worship by creating a safe and risk-free religious experience. We need to adhere to the call of David and show ourselves as men. I think there are three key marks of a
our enemy or opponent with love. To know the measure of a man, see how well he loves God, himself, and others. I’m calling for members to join the Caveman’s Club Fraternity where real men no longer shun their leadership
cave-dweller that help to bring definition to authentic
roles as father, husband, and spiritual director; where
biblical masculinity and give us an opportunity to show
men are ready to serve their wives and children the
ourselves as men. 1. Real biblical masculinity is marked by men who neither shuck leadership nor abdicate their leadership
way Christ loved the church and where men submit to accountability and a commitment to sharpen other men. This is what it means to show yourself a man!
role but rise to the call to lead. This isn’t some pitch for bravado machoism but a call to positional God-given leadership (see Eph. 5). This leadership must first find a resting place in our homes, then the church and around our community. When a man puts a ring on a women’s finger, he becomes the lead pastor. He doesn’t lord this
12 // December 2016
Robert Green leads the Caveman’s Club, an outreach Men’s Ministry of the Westmore Church of God and is the Ocoee Region Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Eugene Pike, President • Stephen Pike, Vice President
83 Years of Service 1933-2016
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EOE
Gò0dNews for Women
Who Am I?
Isn’t that the ever-present question in many people’s minds?
O
by Rhiannon Skeen
ur pastor recently spoke
humanity, with you and me, He
intimate with the One who got
about how decisions
stopped everything, reached down,
intimate with us when He formed us
determine destiny. The
and took the time to put us together.
out of dust.
decisions we make determine
Just think about that. Humanity
The search for who we are can
where our life will lead. If we walk
was so dear to God's heart He put
be cut short if we stop and realize
around in a haze for most of our
His hands in the dirt and molded
whose we are. Once we have that
lives seeking to “find ourselves,”
every part of us. Out of everything
understanding, then God can begin
we might not get around to
He created—sun, moon, stars,
to release our purpose to us. Our
understanding why we are here.
animals, water, flowers, cells,
decision to know God determines
Knowing who we are should only
organisms, all of it—He only took
our destiny.
come from one source—the One
the time to form us. He spoke it all
who created us.
into being until He got to humanity
Sometimes they come through trial
and then He got intimate and took
and error. That is okay. The most
only one time God got messy?
the time to form every cell and
important thing to do is to keep
There was one time He put His
organ.
going. God has not and will never
Do we realize that there was
Answers are not easy.
hands into the dirt and decided to
If we set out in life to search
give up on you, so don't give up
play in the mud. That one time was
for who we are before knowing the
on Him. It may take three failed
when He formed humanity. Let's
One who made us, we will come up
attempts to find the one thing that
go deeper than that. If we look at the account of Creation, there was only
empty. Sure, we can find jobs that we enjoy, families that help us feel
fits, but it is better to try than to quit. So who are you? You are a child of the Most High King, fearfully and
one time He actually
happy, and ways
wonderfully created for great works
formed anything.
to pass the time
through Christ Jesus. Why does
Yes, only once did
in life. But
it matter? Because God has great
He physically reach
nothing will
things in store for those who love
down to mold
ever truly
Him and are called according to His
something. With
answer that
purpose (Rom. 8:28 NIV).
every other thing
deep longing
in existence, He
until we get
simply spoke and it was so. But with
14 // December 2016
Rhiannon Skeen is a Lee University graduate, a wife, a new mother, and the creator/administrator of www.whatsoeverislovelyliving.com. She and her husband are in full-time ministry with Global Apostolic Revival Network (www. GARN.tv). They are passionate about spreading the love of God and seeing heaven invade earth.
ALL ORK, AVE HE
N!
Chattanooga
Hixson
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5425 Tennessee153
723 Battlefield Pkwy
(423) 485-0900
(423) 876-1000
(706) 858-7401
With the purchase of an Adult Buffet.
$11.99
Offer includes 2 Adult Buffets and 2 Small Drinks.
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423-760-8338
1416 Saint Thomas Street East Ridge, TN 37412 At The Entrance To Camp Jordan
423-510-0600
6009 International Drive 8009
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds Christmas and Chocolate They go hand in hand!
T
by Angie Parris
here is something about an upcoming holiday
from heat. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup heavy whipping
that calls for us to drag out the recipe books—
cream until smooth. Cool mixture for about 15 minutes.
maybe something Granny used to make, or
Pour the caramel over the Oreo crust, then return to the
one we've clipped from a magazine, seen online, or
freezer for about 30 minutes until just chilled and set
remember from the old church cookbook of years
(do not let the caramel fully freeze).
gone by. Nonetheless, the sweeter the better. Every
Place chocolate chips in a glass bowl. In a saucepan,
now and again, one recipe comes along that just hangs
bring 1 cup heavy whipping cream to a simmer over
around. This is that recipe; pretty simple to make, few
medium heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate chips
ingredients but very luxurious. It’s fancy enough for
and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until completely
company or simple enough for supper. Somehow this
smooth. Pour the chocolate over the caramel and freeze
one calls for friends, coffee, and a fireplace crackling
for a final 30 minutes or until set and chilled. Before
in the background. Tiny slices completely satisfy the
serving, sprinkle the top with a flaky sea or Kosher salt.
taste buds and make this pie that special "company's-
Enjoy!
coming" dessert for this upcoming season! I love it with Sea Salt, but it would be divine without; you choose!
This really would serve approx 12 people. It is very rich and just a small slice will satisfy!
Dark Chocolate Salted Caramel Oreo Pie Ingredients:
1 package Oreo cookies (about 36) 1 cup (16 tablespoons) butter, melted and divided in half 2/3 cup packed brown sugar 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1 (12ounce) bag dark chocolate chips (not morsels). Finely crush the Oreo's with a food processor or blender. Stir crumbs together with 8 tablespoons of melted butter (1 stick) until well combined. Press into the bottom and sides of a pie pan or dish. Freeze crust for 10 minutes until set. Combine remaining 8 tablespoons butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until mixture begins to bubble. Continue cooking, whisking constantly for one minute. Remove
16 // December 2016
Angie Parris is the cafeteria manager for Walker Valley High School here in Bradley County after serving as food service director for 22 years at Broad Street Methodist Church. Angie and Jackie are parents of 4, grandparents of 10—adjusting nicely to their new empty nest!
McKamey Animal Center's 3rd Annual
Allnighter ADOPTION EVENT
Friday, December 16 • 12 Noon — Midnight Help us make it possible for all our shelter animals to be home for the holidays this Christmas.
IN-YOUR-FACE
FAMILY FUN
Miss Don't nt! ve This E
FREE Child's Admission
• Silent Auction • Entertainment All Day Long • Holiday Treats For Pets & People • Adoptions Fees Reduced :$12 For Cats $24 For Dogs
4500 North Access Rd • Chattanooga, TN www.mckameyanimalcenter.org
With the purchase of one adult admission. Not valid for special events. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
Volunteers in Medicine’s passionate group of volunteers offered 6,814 hours of service last year making 5,241 patient visits possible.
Now Recruiting Volunteers! Doctors Nurses
Our dedicated team of compassionate volunteers all share common qualities. They enjoy interacting with a variety of people, are passionate about helping those in need, and serve with hearts of caring and compassion. They have positive attitudes and share a common commitment to care for our needy patients with dignity, courtesy, and consideration. We love our volunteers and are always looking for more. Check us out at www.vim-chatt.org!
Lab Techs Administrative
Volunteers in Medicine is a free primary health care clinic for qualified, low income and uninsured residents of Greater Chattanooga. Medical care is delivered by volunteer doctors and nurses. VIM is funded by individuals, businesses, foundations, and churches. All these sources view VIM as a domestic mission, and are investing in the health of our community. No government funding is part of the VIM revenue stream.
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 2003 Elmendorf St, 37406
18 // December 2016
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 New Hope Missionary Baptist Church 423.697.7000 3777 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 North River Bible Baptist 423.313.2658 4810 EB Hixson Pike {Suite 106) Hixson, TN 37343 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 Ridgedale Baptist Church 423.499.0994 1831 Hickory Valley Road, 37421 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 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Omega Harvest Church 423.875.0033 4904 Dayton Blvd, 37415 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 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407
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 423-629-5990; www.first4u.org 2800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran 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
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
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 Presbyterian Chattanooga First Cumberland Presbyterian 423.238.3835 423.698.2556 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 1505 North Moore Rd, 37411 Free To Worship Revival Center Central Presbyterian Church 423-650-9172 423.629.1401 9966 Lovell Rd, 37379 1815 McCallie Ave, 37404 Faith Connection Church Covenant Presbyterian Church 423.933.6986 423.899.5377 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 8451 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Metropolitan Tabernacle East Ridge Presbyterian Church 423.894.3377 423.867.2717 2101 West Shepherd Rd, 37422 4919 Court Dr, 37412 Carpenters Cowboy Church First Presbyterian Church 423.867.4232 423.267.1206 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 554 McCallie Ave, 37402 Brainerd Hills Chapel Church New Hope Presbyterian Church 423.899.3098 423.892.0853 5931 Pinegrove Tr, 37421 7301 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Chattanooga Church North Minster Presbyterian 423.892.2888 423.894.3773 6188 Adamson Circle, 37416 4791 Hal Dr, 37416 Christian Church of Hope St Elmo Presbyterian Church 423.855.0767 423.821.1424 2330 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 4400 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Church of Jesus Second Presbyterian Church 423.629.5051 423.266.2828 2118 Wilson St, 37406 700 Pine St, 37402 Church of the First Born Vineyard 423.756.0704 3418 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Vineyard Christian Fellowship Church of the Lord Jesus 423.704.2188 423.265.8235 10615 London Ln, 37302 200 West 19th St, 37408 Mount Summit of Peace Church Seventh-Day 423.899.0434 Collegedale Community 6925 Shallowford Rd, 37421 9503 Four Corners Place New Covenant Church Collegedale, TN 37363 423.867.2121 Hamilton County Church 3700 Clio Ave, 37407 7997 Shallowford Rd New Covenant Fellowship Church Chattanooga, TN 37421 423.899.8001 Wesleyan 1326 North Moore Road, 37411 Walker Avenue First Church Faith Community Wesleyan 423.622.2982 7725 Shallowford Road 2101 Walker St, 37404 Chattanooga, TN 37421 Worlds Church of the Living God 423.622.2992 issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19 2110 Glass St, 37406
FEATURED
COVER STORY
North Georgia Heating and Air By Emily Bangura
They have been keeping you comfortable since 1961.
N
orth Georgia Heating and Air earned the
years. Their technicians are NATE certified and their
2016 First Place Best of the Best award
comfort advisors are experienced and always maintain
from the Chattanooga Times Free Press
their knowledge of the latest technology and industry
People’s Choice Awards, and it is not difficult to see why. They aim to provide the best possible service and installation to each customer and to satisfy their needs without delay. They pledge to offer their services in a professional, clean, neat, and safe manner with a friendly and patient attitude and to always promote and advertise their company in good faith. North Georgia Heating and Air provides HVAC service, repair, replacement, maintenance and so much more to the Chattanooga and North Georgia areas. Customer satisfaction is their number one priority and it has
20 // December 2016
been for over fifty
standards. This company is constantly looking for new ways to impress and satisfy their customers with the comfort they desire. North Georgia Heating and Air has been established in the North Georgia and Chattanooga area community since 1961. They are one of, if not the, oldest heating and air companies in the Chattanooga area. Mr. J.C. Ayers was the founder of North Georgia Heating and Air, and sold the company after thirty years when he began having health problems. Gerald Brown purchased the business from Ayers in 1991 and Bobby Wigley joined him in January of 1993. Twenty years later, Bobby’s son, Corey, joined the team in February of 2013. Bobby and Gerald are partners in the ownership of the company, with Gerald working as the CEO and Bobby working as the President. Corey was promoted to Vice President in May of 2016 and his sister, Kelsea, has been his apprentice since March of 2014. Kelsea now coordinates
and dispatches the service technicians to their repair calls and also serves as a customer service specialist. North Georgia Heating and Air is a family-owned and operated, community-based company, that not only goes the extra mile within their practice, but also in their community. They donate and support many local communities in a variety of ways. They support local youth sports teams, like baseball, golf tournaments, football, and cheer leading. They spread out their donations to many sections of Tennessee and Georgia. One of the ways that they help serve the community is by installing, repairing, and replacing equipment for families who are struggling with financial stability. They strive to lift families and individuals up in their times of need. They also go the extra mile to serve those who are serving this country. They make a point of making themselves available to serve the men and women in active service and their families. North Georgia Heating and Air has also been an honored supporter of the Children’s Advocacy Center. Through all of their hard work and dedication to their vocation, they have earned many different forms of recognition. They became a member of the BBB in September of 1972, and they are currently rated as an A+ company that is complaint-free. They are also a member of Angie’s List and have repeatedly earned an A+ rating along with becoming the recipient of the Angie’s List Super Service Award. They have also been awarded the Best of the Best in North Georgia for five years now. They are the area’s only Premier Trane Comfort specialist and are a QCN (Quality Contract Network) Certified TVA Heat Pump Contractor. As their service and installation departments are NATE certified and State Licensed, North Georgia Heating and Air does not use any subcontractors for any of the work they need done. All of their employees are drug-tested and nationally background-searched for the ease of mind of their clients. Ever since becoming a Trane Dealer over thirty years ago, they have also won numerous awards from multiple manufacturing titles such as Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Amana, and many more.
Mary Kirk of Chattanooga says, “This is the best contractor I have ever dealt with. Bobby and the installing crew were far more professional and courteous than I expected. Way to go! I would recommend these people to anyone I know without a worry! Great job guys, and thanks for responding so quickly!” Donna Davis of Chattanooga says, “We cannot find words to express how much we appreciate the efforts of your employees to get our air on so quickly! They did an excellent job and were very friendly & courteous.” These types of adoring reviews are numerous. Give North Georgia Heating and Air a call, and you can experience their one-of-a-kind service for yourself. You can call their office at 423-265-8144 or visit their website at ngaheatandair.com.
The customers of North Georgia Heating and Air voted them the number one heating and air company for many reasons.
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 21
Gò0dNews for Parents In the Eyes of God, Not the World
Are you teaching your children to be God-fearing warriors who will stand up for God even if it means not having approval from their friends?
"A
by Bethany Ruckman
m I now trying to win the approval of human
I can't tell you how many parents and teens have
beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please
teased them for their decision or pressured them to change
people? If I were still trying to please people,
their minds. If they were doing it for the approval of
I would not be a servant of Christ" (Gal. 1:10 NIV). “Cue
others, they would have changed their minds, but they are
the crickets,” or at least that’s how I felt when I read this
choosing to focus on a closer relationship with God before
last week. This verse can apply to everything we do, but I
a close personal relationship with a boyfriend or girlfriend.
wanted to focus on how we are raising our children. Ask
My husband and I have had numerous conversations
yourself: “Am I training up
and go deep into prayer
my children to try to win
about what is best for our
the approval of their peers
children, as I am sure you
or God? Is social status
have. There are days we
important? Why are they
feel so strongly that we
working so hard to be the
are on the right path with
best at their sport? Who do
something then—bam—a
they play their music for?”
test! Tests are tough my
I get it; I really do,
friends, not a little pop
and there is nothing better
quiz. It’s a true test of
than watching our children
perseverance to do what is
succeed at something they
pleasing to God. Then the
have worked so hard for.
questions come back: “Am I
It is so exciting when the
showing them to be God-
once ear-piercing sound that
fearing warriors who will
once filled the house during
stand up for God, even if
music practice is now beautiful and identifiable as a song. It warms my heart to see my older kids gathered with a
that means not having approval from their peers?” Yikes. What a responsibility. Maybe, I will just crawl under
group of friends. It shows me that they are building bonds,
my bed and hide because the task at hand seems almost
and that all of the embarrassing habits we all might display
impossible. No, I can't; I will not. We cannot compromise
at times in our house can actually be left at the house, and
what is good in the eyes of the Lord to help our kids be
they can go out into society and be civilized.
popular. We cannot sacrifice time with God to spend all
Here's the kicker that we as parents must consider:
of our time to get them to star-athlete status. We cannot
“Do we care more about them fitting in than we are willing
forget that musical talent is a gift from God that is meant
to overlook that maybe the friendship might not help them
to be used for His glory. First Corinthians 10:31 says, "So
draw nearer to Christ. We must think about this. Even
whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all
Christian friends can be unhealthy friendships. Two of
for the glory of God" (NIV). Stay strong warrior parents,
our children are in youth groups, and they have made the
stay strong!
decision not to date for a while. Instead, they are waiting for a more meaningful relationship when the time is right. This is not accepted by most teens, Christian or nonChristian, or even parents for that matter.
22 // December 2016
Bethany Ruckman is a wife, mom of 4, and a registered nurse. She can be reached by email at sunbird9922@hotmail.com.
Church Activities & Events St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Chattanooga Artist Series Concert: A Medieval Candlelight Christmas
Keyboards at Christmas
Saturday, December 10 @ 3pm, Sunday, December 11 @ 5pm - Sanctuary
Christmas Eve Services
Tuesday, December 13th, 2016 at 7:30pm
Saturday, December 24 4pm | Sanctuary, 5pm | BX, 5:30pm | Sanctuary
First Cumberland Presbyterian Church
Sunday, December 25 10am | BX & Sanctuary
The Roueche’ Chorale and Orchestra Present The Chattanooga Candlelight
December 8, 2016 The Roueché Chorale and Orchestra will present the Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols, Thursday, December 8 and Friday, December 9, 2016, at 7:00 PM at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 1505 North Moore Road, Chattanooga, TN 37411. Admission is free. For more information, call 423-304-1535, or log on our website, www.therouehechorale.org
Hickory Valley Christian Church Come to Bethlehem and See
December 16, 17, 18 • Hickory Valley Christian Church 6605 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421 Doors open at 6pm each night. First tour begins at 6:15pm. Last tour begins at 8pm. Take a trip back in time to experience the wonder and excitement of First Century Bethlehem. Feel the press of the crowd in the packed marketplace, the panic of the innkeeper, the exhaustion of new parents, the surprise of the shepherds, and much more. Remind yourself and your family and friends why we celebrate Christmas in the first place. This free event is open to everyone and is especially great for families and groups. The event is also handicap accessible.
Brainerd Baptist Church
Christmas at Brainerd Almost There (Choir & Orchestra)
Sunday, December 4 - 4pm & 6:30pm | Sanctuary
Manger Build
Saturday, December 10- 8-10:30am | BX
Christmas Services
New Year’s Weekend Services Saturday, December 31- 5pm | BX Sunday, January 1- 10am | BX & Sanctuary
The Crossing Church Chattanooga Adult Christmas Musical Sunday December 4th, 2016
New Haven Baptist
Children’s Christmas Program
Wednesday, December 14th- During service
Christmas Program
Sunday, December 18, 2016
The Basilica of Sts. Peter & Paul Winter Piano Recital
Students of our St. Cecilia Classroom will give their Winter Piano Recital at 10am on Sat., December 10 in Varallo Parish Hall. All parishioners are invited. As an outreach opportunity with this recital, our students are collecting cans and socks for Community Kitchen. You can bring these items to the recital, pledge support to one of our students in their practice-a-thon, or simply drop the donations in the Community Kitchen box in the vestibule.
New City Fellowship Christmas Day Service
Sunday, December 25, 2016 Starts: 11:00 AM Ends: 12:00 PM Location: Glenwood Sanctuary Join us as we celebrate our Savior’s birth!
Merry Christmas!
Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness Habits of Healthy Couples
“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” —Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 ESV by Hannah Davis
D
r. Julie Sharp, head of health information at Cancer
to achieve them. Revisit each other’s goals often to track
Research UK stated, “Making lifestyle changes can
your progress.
make a huge difference to our health and cancer
Tip #3: Plan Healthy Meals/Activities Together
risk, and [studies show] that when couples make those changes together, they are more likely to be successful.” If you want to get healthier, setting up an accountability sys-
Make a weekly meal plan together. Encourage each
other to stick to it by preparing those healthy meals and
together. Visit a local farmer’s market together where Gò0dNews for Health &snacks Fitness
tem with your partner may be the “difference-maker.” Here are a few tips from healthy couples on how to keep each other accountable.
you can stock up on produce. Plan fun outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or even just window shopping in your favor-
neighborhood. Plan the time to take morning or nightly Tips for Achieving ite Your Fitness Goals walks together.
Tip #1: Set an Example
by Hannah Davis If you’re trying to motivate your partner to get fit, the
single most important thing you can do to get started is to
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the
lead by example. Create ownyou, healthy new like Holyyour Spirit within whom you havehabits from God? You are your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify going to the gym andnot cutting out junk food. Talk to your God in your body. —1 Corinthians 6: 1920 (ESV)
partner about the healthier habits you’re incorporating, and
I
t’s March, if you New Year’s health/ share why they’re important toand you. If made you’re consistent
fitness resolutions, now is when you might be getting
with your healthy new frustrated routine,and your partner will likely be contemplate giving up. You may think
it’s been too hard or that you have already failed. There inspired to do the same. is good reason why you should not give up. You are worth it to your Maker and those around you. The following tips will help you get overnext the hump The stepof selfdoubt and achieve lasting results this year.
Tip #2: Set Goals in becoming more
1. Be specific. If your goal is weight loss, I together is to set encourage you to attach fit a reasonable timeline. For
example, if your end goalindividual is to lose 50 goals pounds by August, your weekly and share those goal could be to lose one to two goals with pounds each week. These smaller increments are realistic and will encourage you to stay on track. 2. Have a plan.
your partner. Do you want to lose
Schedule your workouts weight? Lose and meal plan just like you do other appointments. It helps to inches? Exergo to the gym or workout at cise homedaily? Cut
with a written plan. If you’re a member of a out junkbest food, gym, ask the desk staff if one of their trainers can show you how to use theand/or equipment properly. sugar? You 3. Prioritize. I hear the excuse that “I just don’t can motivate and have the time or money to get healthier and more fit.”
inspire each other You can’t afford not to! Out-of-pocket healthcare costs continue to rise. You can either spend less money on a gym membership, a personal trainer, and healthier foods now, or you can spend even more money down
24 // December 24 2016 // March 2016
Tip #4: Motivate/Support One Another
the road to treat major heart disease Once upon a health time,issues youlike and your partner might have and diabetes. Your health should be a priority because enabled each other’s bad habits. Now, it’s important to motiyour family needs you.
vate4.and support each other’s goals. Some days may require Be accountable. The importance of having
asomeone gentletonudge make aCreate healthier eating choice, while other report toto is priceless. a reward system together. For example, if you lose 8 pounds by days you may need to employ tough love tactics to keep the end of the month, you get a spa treatment, or you
your partner and inspired. Only the two of you treat yourself to amotivated sporting event. Using a tracking app or fitness devicewill like MyFitnessPal or FitBit can be an know what work for one another. excellent motivator.
Tip5.#5: Communicate Focus on today. Finally, be encouraged by
achieving goals. Take the stairs instead Justsmall like daily communication is key to of the
success of your
the elevator. Park away from a store’s entrance. Eat a relationship, it is equally important to the success of your healthy dinner. Go for a walk. Over time, these small
health and By sharing your triumphs and feats add upfitness and havegoals. a huge impact! Remember, it’s a marathon, notto a find healthy solutions. frustrations, you can work together sprint. Trust the process! Improving
Keep in mind that when to becoming and staying your health it is acomes daily journey. onto physiological healthy, there are Focus going be obstacles. It’s important to improvements that can happen
help each other tackle those hurdles so you can ultimately with just one workout and a weektogether. of healthier eating. celebrate your victories
Reduced stress, better sleep, and more energy will be quickly you greatly improve your chances of making these changes achieved.
By incorporating healthier habits with your partner,
Good habits on a consistent lifelong. Living a more healthy lifestyle will create a stronger basis will help you achieve a healthier
bond between youFor and your partner, mind and body. more fitness tips, findand me onultimately allow Twitter, Facebook, and other Instagram@bodybyhannah. you to serve each and others better! Create this account-
ability system with your partner and you are set for success!
Hannah Davis ownsowns Body ByBody HannahBy personal Hannah Davis Hannah personal training studio training studio in downtown Cleveland, TN. Hannah in Cleveland, TN.board Hannah on the advisory board as the served on the advisory as the served fitness expert fitness expert Magazine for Cosmopolitan Magazine and has contributed to for Cosmopolitan and has contributed to publications and and booksbooks includingincluding Women’s Health publications Women’s Health Magazine, SELF, Magazine, SELF, Yahoo Health, Fitness Magazine, and Yahoo Health, Fitness Magazine, and She the Rodale published book, the Rodale published book, Shape Up Shortcuts. is the author of the Operation Bikini Bodyauthor series youof the Operation Bikini Shape Up Shortcuts. She is the can find via her website: BodyByHannah.com. Body series, you can find via her website: BodyByHannah.com.
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10/19/15 11:18 AM
Gò0dNews for Teens Teens and Their Family Lives
In a society where the family model is so distorted and under attack, followers of Christ must continue to strengthen the family dynamic in our homes, which begins with reaching out to the teens and showing them the importance of family.
P
by Fernando Alejandro
arents, do you remember when your child would come home from elementary school and tell you
every detail of their day at school? Sometimes it would take thirty minutes or longer and you would just nod or say, “Oh really?” or “Wow, that’s great honey?” But, your child is grown into a teenager and he or she is glued to a cell phone. The only answer you can get from your teen is, “It was okay” or “Yeah.” All you want is to communicate, but teens are consumed with their friends at school and social media. Teens, do you remember that you spent every waking moment with your parent(s) and you never wanted to leave their side? You would wake up early in the morning and crawl into bed with your mom and dad to spend some time with them? However, now, your parents are always on your case about school, chores, being active in the youth group, or the other activities that they want you to do while all that you want is to hang out with your friends and to spend time away with them. Are you to a point that you really don’t know what’s going on in your family or that your family doesn’t know what is going on in your life? What happened from the time you/your teenager left elementary school and entered into middle/high school? Once teens begin to find their friend groups who become their primary source of social time (teens spend more time at school and extracurricular activities than they do with their parents), spending time with their parents and
26 // December 2016
family is boring or that they cannot be themselves like they can around their friends. Around other teens, they are able to find individuals that have the same taste in music, clothing, and hobbies unlike their family that they view as too old and out of touch with society, or if they have siblings that are younger, they’re annoying. Older siblings, are not around because their friend groups consume them. Is it too late for family members to reach into the lives of their teens? No, let me suggest some simple actions parents can take to reconnect with their teens or vice-versa. • Set aside a designated time to spend time together and do something that both parties will enjoy. Living in a society where busyness consumes our lives, picking a time to spend together will change the family dynamic. • Build trust with one another that leads to opening up to each other. Students need to hear that their parents struggle and have or are overcoming obstacles in their own lives. • Reveal unconditional love that Christ showed humanity on the cross. Writing a simple “I love you” note or saying it will change the hearts of the family. “Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Pro. 22:6 NASB)
Fernando Alejandro attended Lee University in Cleveland, TN, graduated with his bachelor’s degree in youth ministry, and holds his ordained ministerial licensure with the Church of God. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in ministry studies concentrating in youth and family ministry. When Fernando was saved in a youth ministry, he stepped into God’s plan for his life, to love, journey with, and disciple the next generation.
Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors
Seventy Years Strong Staying involved with their church, their work in the community, and their family has kept this couple’s love strong!
I
by Esmerelda Lee
enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites like adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his An Affair to Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’ successes to their mother. He did say that he Thing, and others move me more than some and Betty believed in giving their children “some of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmark good lickings,” that helped too. Channel. There is something to be said about the In a world where so many people focus on their purity and innocence of the courtship and love own happiness and make life-altering decisions depicted through old movies. I am also honored to based on these motives, I asked Betty and Mitchell see these love stories played out in real life through if they were happy throughout the sixty-nine years older adults. Couples that fell in love and stayed of marriage. “We always worked it out, and if we in love through a world war, the Depression, life didn’t laugh at each other, we found someone or challenges, raising and burying loved ones are something to laugh about. You’ll have problems in couples that loved for life. marriage, but who doesn’t? You just have to talk it by Esmerelda Betty and Mitchell Lyle are a local Cleveland Leeout,” Mitch replied. couple that met in the first grade at When I asked if they ever fought, ecently, someone asked me my opinion about a Many older adults enjoy being a greeter at Walmart; Arnold Memorial School. For Mitchell it they looked puzzled. “Who doesn’t local business leader well past the typical however, they are discovering that there many jobs was love at first who sight.isBetty believes that fight? We areare both so different, and retirement age but continues to work every day. they can continue doing, jobs that will serve others while the grinning first-grader grew on her we like different things. When we “When doover you think person will was they the teaching them as well. Ourfought, countrythe faces a crisis time.this According toretire?” Mitchell, one withwith the strongest were “sweet” on each other but did not case won.” Mitchell also added, question. I replied, “I really don’t know, who says, he has the lack of caregivers, especially nurses. Dorothy Philips, until “We compromised, but Betty made to retire?”get Thisserious question leadafter me toWorld wonderWar whyII.some a tenured nurse in our community, continues to serve Mitchell enlisted in the Navy in 1943 the most compromises. I am still people believe that older adults must stop working. Is people at Life Care Center of Cleveland. Dot, as she is and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In receiving a Medicare card some sort of flashing yellow known to many, is always on time. She never calls in, and time. He remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, she said, caution sign that the “end” is on the horizon? Or maybe she is meticulous with her education young nurses, her about, going by before his feet even touched “If there istosomething to fight it is the card to But markeach the rite of passage documentation and technique. like Dot Philips drygiven land. week when into maila thereNurses is something worth saving.” was delivered to hisWhat aircraft On August 22, 2016, Betty and season of resting and relaxation? if wecarrier, really don’t should never be pressured to retire if they desire to serve Betty’s unrelenting letters and her faith Mitchell Lyle will celebrate their enjoy resting? What if people truly enjoy what they do, and can still make a difference. that he would home kept have theirthat love strong.Currently, seventieth anniversary. Today, these or just enjoy being needed?return Will these people over 25wedding % of the drivers that serve When Mitchell and Betty were finally reunited lifelong Cleveland residents live at Garden Plaza at opportunity well into their senior years? millennials through Uber driving services are over the after the war, they dated for eight short months Cleveland Senior Living. Their apartment has little A recent article in U.S. News piqued my curiosity. A age of fifty. Many seniors can from still beserving attentive before they were married. After graduating college, awards they won incounselors, their vocations new studyBetty published by the JP Morgan Chase Institute intuitive consultants, wise leaders, and engaging teachers. became a school teacher with Cleveland City and in their community, war-torn photographs showed that a growing ofwent seniors turning to railroad. Isaiahof 46:4 says, members, “Even in your age, Ieach will be the Schools, andnumber Mitchell toare work for the family andold beside recliner is a Later he became one of the members of our City tattered and worn Bible. the “gig economy” and outfits like Uber, and other online same, And even to your graying years I will bear you! I They stillcarry laugh at And eachI other andyou with each platforms Council. to earn supplemental income. According to the have done it, and I will you. will bear When asked what was the secret to loving other. There are also days where the laughter and research, they found that more than 400,000 seniors bring and I will deliver you.” This scripture is a reminder that each other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News in some income from the gig economy (gig meaning our Heavenly Father never discounts people in their old they both stated, “Stay busy so you don’t get into anchors are the only voices heard in the apartment. “gigabyte”). "An increasing number of seniors age. He is Mitchell able to bear them, carry them and trouble!” Betty and Mitchell were are married at First said it best, “What she deliver forgets,them. I can supplementing their income through the online platform As I read this scripture, I am reminded that He has the Baptist Church in 1946, and were always involved in remember. When she laughs, I am happy, and even church, work, and family. They had though there were daysto she didn’t me, she economy,"their the report says. "Many online platforms are two sons. ability to give His children strength thrive. At like any age, Both Tony and David were strong boys, raised by always loved me.” especially well-suited for seniors in that they permit a job well done is gratifying. a strong, no-nonsense working mother. Betty was flexible work and allow people to generate income from Esmerelda loving, but she always made it clear that her sons EsmereldaLee Leeisiscampus campusmanager manager for Garden accumulated assets." for Garden Plaza of an Plaza of Cleveland,Cleveland, an independent and assisted would love education like she did, and they would
Looks like Miss Daisy’s turn to take the wheel
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28 // December 20162016 34 // March
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Gò0dNews for Everyone The World Is Made Holy through Thanks Gratitude to God becomes the continuous sanctification of the world.
A
by Julius McCarter
s we approach Thanksgiving, I’m reminded,
if it is received with thankfulness, for it is made holy by
especially today, as I prepare for yet another
the Word of God and prayer.
of those pastoral duties that bring a pastor’s
Think about that. Think of everything you possess,
heart to break—a funeral. That’s when life is treated as a
everything that is yours in life. How can we live with
possession that can be taken from us, damaged or lost.
these things in a way that doesn’t entangle us, in a way
Our lives become infused with fear, causing us to cling,
that isn’t sinful?
protect, hoard, defend, and aggress. The antidote to this
Receive them as gifts. When we handle the things
fear is gratitude, viewing life—the whole of life—not as a
of the world as gifts, they become holy, consecrated,
possession to be defended but as a gift to be shared.
and sanctified. Gratitude and thankfulness mark
Treating the whole of life as gift has become an
the boundary between the sacred and the profane.
important spiritual insight for me. That’s why, on days
Everything is sanctified by our thanksgiving. Receiving
like today, I always begin by praying 1 Timothy 4:4-5:
God’s gifts with thanks doesn’t merely identify them as
“For everything created by God is good, and nothing is
gifts. It sanctifies them. The world is made holy through
to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is
our thanksgiving.
made holy by the word of God and prayer” (ESV).
If Christians consecrate whatever they receive by
On the surface, it seems like a rather bland text. Be
thanks, they are not only claiming it as God’s own but
thankful. Got it. But there is an idea at the heart of this
also obligating themselves to use it in a particular way,
text that is very profound if you let the implications sink
to use it with thanks. Thanksgiving is thus the liturgy
in. And the idea is this: Gratitude sanctifies the world;
of Christian living. It is the continuous sacrifice that
gratitude makes the world holy. Nothing is to be rejected
Christians offer.
30 // December 2016
The Reverend Julius McCarter, Ph.D., is a minister and spiritual director who lives in Loudon, TN. He is the author of eleven books—most recently a theological commentary on the Book of Revelation. His ministry, Sunergoi Ministries, maintains a blog at www.the-little-friar.blogspot.com.
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Gò0dNews for Couples
Picking Your Team
A whole-hearted commitment can become a holy appointment. by John Garrod
I
recently went back to my Texas roots for a wedding.
may be adversaries in the next game. When you’re a
My wife and four of our six kids went with me; this
team captain, your only goal is to get the fastest, best-
was an old-style family vacation, but packed into just
hitting talent you could from the pool available. No
four days. It was an opportunity to show them where
loyalty given, none expected. It’s about winning that
I grew up, the streets where we played wiffle-ball and
game and having bragging rights for a little while.
climbed trees, and the schools I attended when, a long
Thirty-two years ago, I made a selection. While that
time ago, I was their age. After 2,300 miles of driving, it
early determination was based on physical attraction
was time for me to realize just how old I am.
and a novice understanding of what love is, the decision
And then there was the wedding to meet family
was a whole-hearted commitment. This wonderful
and friends of the family, some of whom I haven’t seen
woman was to become my mate. That’s not the same
in decades. As with any large gathering, there were
as dating someone you think is attractive and whose
some couples that had been together for ages. But there
company you enjoy; it’s a holy appointment. Genesis
were also ex-spouses seated at tables with
2:24 says, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and
their new spouses, while the ex-husband
mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become
sat across the table with theirs. Some of
one flesh”(NKJV). Jesus added to this in Mark 10: 8-9,
these couples I have known most
saying “So they are no longer two, but
of my life, and I remember their
one flesh. Therefore, what God has put
first weddings. And sadly, in
together, let not man put asunder”
the years to come, many more of the families there will
(NKJV). It’s a lifetime of “us” versus
split, thanks to the epidemic
“them,” even when “them” is
divorce rate in America.
family or friends who try to
So why do some couples
divide us, emotions that want
last, while others do not?
to overwhelm you, and odds
Divorce has hit half of my
that want to defy us. It’s saying
siblings and many of my friends.
“no” to temptation, turning a
There’s no simple, all-inclusive
deaf ear to the devil’s whispers,
answer, of course, but I think a lot
defending and praying for each
of it has to do with commitment to
other even when we’re upset with
the team. Instead, we go into it with a
each other. It’s joining hands and
wiffle-ball attitude. Wiffle-ball is a pick-up game of
setting course for the horizon regardless the obstacles.
baseball played with plastic balls and bats. Teams were determined by who happened to be outside when we started. So while brother may be teamed with brother today, they
32 // December 2016
John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one, Army veteran, and a resident of Tennessee. He is a member at South Cleveland Church of God.
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Gò0dNews for Life Faithful to Her Promise Life is sacred—no matter its circumstances. by Delaney Walker
S
he looked to be about fourteen. Her thick, black
her side, and for some reason, this seemed to make her
hair was pulled back from her face to reveal a
neighbors all the more disgusted. She could explain the
pair of dark eyes. She stared off into the distance;
situation, but it seemed unlikely they would believe
her forehead creased as she mulled over recent events. Although slight, her stomach protruded enough
to reveal the beginnings of a pregnancy bump. Her left hand curved protectively around her middle. An air of quiet confidence surrounded the girl.
the truth. Some days even she had to pinch herself to make sure she wasn’t in a dream. “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God,” the angel had said to her. “You will
Her family was not happy, to say the least. The
conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call
once friendly smiles from her neighbors had turned
him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son
into contemptuous looks. Strangers in town whispered
of the Most High” (Luke 1:30-32 NIV).
loudly when their paths crossed. Sometimes it seemed
She remembered telling the angel she was the
they almost hoped she would hear, as if their words
Lord’s servant. “May your word to me be fulfilled”
would somehow teach her a lesson she had missed. At
(Luke 1:38 NIV), she had said before the angel
times, it looked as if they wanted to kill her.
disappeared. She had meant those words, and still
In her womb grew a baby. As a young girl, she had imagined her husband making the announcement with pride
did, but some days she had to close her eyes and remember—remember the promise. Remember the purpose. Remember the Lord’s will. And thank God, Mary was faithful to her promise. This Christmas, once again we have the opportunity
in his eyes.
to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who
Their families
was in every way a human. He faced temptations, He
would react
laughed and experienced sorrow, and He started His
with jubilation, and, in turn, there would be a celebration. This was not the reality of her current situation.
life in His mother’s womb. Jesus at conception was no less of a human than He was nine months later at His birth. Two months after conception, Jesus was no less of a human than He was when He spoke with the Woman at the Well. Jesus, kicking in His mother’s womb, was no less of a human
Her intended
than He was thirty-three years later when He died for
still planned to
our sins on a cross.
marry her, but it had taken him a
Life is precious—no matter its size. Life is worthy to be saved—no matter its ability.
little while to come around. He stood by
34 // December 2016
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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Gò0dNews from the Outdoors
Take a Kid Hunting
Every adventure in the outdoors, what you see and or don’t see, is different. by Rusty Asble
I
always heard the saying, “If you take your kids
am I supposed to wear? What is the name of that type
hunting, you don’t have to hunt your kids.” I have
of tree? Why is the land like that?” It was question after
come to realize how true that saying is. Kids want
question that helped me learn.
a sense of adventure. Yes, all kids are different and adventure is defined differently to everyone, but what I am talking about is everything that leads up to the adventure. So let’s begin.
The Wonder
Being
I remember my first deer hunt with my dad. The
details are ingrained within my memory. The broken Oak tree. The six-step wooden stand. The swamp behind me. The corn stubble field in front of me. Even
The outdoors stirs up something inside a child.
what it felt like, the wood I was sitting on, the breeze in
Questions are always asked, “What’s on the other side
my face, the chill in the air. The most important part is
of that hill? What’s down in the creek? What’s in those
seeing my dad across the field from me sitting in the old
woods? What are we going to do? How are we going to
Gum tree. I was with him and it was good.
do it?” This wonder is the first start of the adventure.
The Outcome.
I Want to Learn.
Every child, and many adults, want to learn how to
Each adventure can vary from being cold, wet, or
lost. It can be a successful hunt or a frustrating miss. It
do certain things in the outdoors. As a child, I wanted
can be messed up equipment or a practice paying off.
to learn how to clean a rabbit. I thought that would
The new season may be transforming the landscape or
make me a man. I asked questions like, “What type of
dryness dulling the view. However, there is one thing
animals can I hunt? What are the methods of how I can
that never gets old, and I always love the outcome—that
hunt? Where do rabbits live? Where can I hunt? What
is walking out hand in hand with your child as the sun sets and darkness encroaches, whispering about the hunt, and the opportunity for a next time. Until then . . . By Reverend Rusty Asble Taking Faith To The Field
36 // December 2016
Rusty Asble is the associate pastor of recreation administration at First Baptist Church, Cleveland, TN. He and his wife Stacy have three children: Ridge, Garrett, and Susie. They reside in Cleveland.
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