Gò0dNews December 2017
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About Us WRITERS
Amy Scott Amy Wilson Andrew Lee Andrew Towe Bill McGinnis Cara Cochran Danny Hesterly David Kemp Ellen Oliveira Esmerelda Lee Evan Tyler Fox Dr. James White Kayla Stevens Kenneth Ware Pam Turner Rick Mitchell Stephanie Young Theodore Young
SALES
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,
Mike Wilson 423-653-3740 Stewart Kelley 423-227-2002
Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in
DESIGN
because we feel that when God, family, and community
Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine
Caleb Prytherch Avery Hurst
are combined, lives will be changed.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us
Paula Knipp 423-310-4207
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, throughout the community in retail establishments,
churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens
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the door for Christians to work together to grow and
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EDITOR
and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and
Emily Bangura
women in the community who love and serve the Lord.
PUBLISHER
Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Phone: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
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reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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.
Contents DECEMBER 2017
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk 6 Giving Credit Where Credit is Due
GoodNews for Seniors
GoodNews for Kids 8 Born for a Purpose
GoodNews for Everyone 30 Praise: An Anchor for Our Souls
by David Kemp
by Stephanie Young
GoodNews on Money Matters 10 Red and Green—The Colors of Christmas? by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men 12 Who Are You?
by Andrew Towe
GoodNews for Women 14 O Come, All Ye Faithful by Kayla Stevens
GoodNews for your Taste Buds 16 Mini Mango Rose Tart by Ellen Oliveira
GoodNews for Parents 20 Making Memories by Danny Hesterly
GoodNews Cover Story 22 Mountain View Chevrolet of Chattanooga by Emily Bangura
GoodNews for Everyone 24 When Mom Can’t Fix It by Pam Turner
GoodNews for Teens 26 To Every Season by Amy Wilson
28 Always Room at Your Table for One More by Esmerelda Lee
by Cara Cochran
GoodNews for Couples 32 Seeking Kingdom Wisdom for Old Traps
12
by Theodore Young
GoodNews for Health & Fitness 34 Fit Not Frozen by Evan Tyler Fox
GoodNews for Everyone 36 Neck Stretching Leaning Forward, Tippy-Toed Christmas Anticipation by Bill McGinnis
GoodNews for Women’s Health 38 Vein Thrombosis
24
by Dr. James White
GoodNews for Everyone 40 The Christmas Light by Rick Mitchell
GoodNews for Everyone 42 The Transforming Power of Christmas by Kenneth Ware
36
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
®
Gò0dNews Gò0dNews from from the the Pastor’s Pastor’s Desk Desk Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk You Can Be a Great Disciple of Jesus
E
Being a disciple of Jesus involves serving others by meeting their needs. by David Kemp
very so often, someone publishes a list of the
The Lord’s ways are very different from the world’s
world’s great athletes, great entertainers, great
ways. Unlike the “scratch and claw your way to the top,
chefs, and so on. Those lists are interesting, but
stepping on whatever is necessary to get there” attitude
they are also quite subjective. One person’s idea of
of the world, Jesus emphasized that greatness among
greatness may not correspond to someone else’s idea of
His disciples is based on serving others.
greatness. But if there is one person to whom we ought
Jesus also demonstrated the importance of serving
to pay attention when He tells us, “These are the ones
others. He continued, “For even the Son of Man did not
who are great,” it’s the Lord Jesus Christ.
come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a
Good News! Jesus Is Risen! Giving Credit Where Credit is Due In Mark 10:35-37, the Bible states, “Then James
and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Him, saying,
ransom for many” (Mark 10:45 NKJV). Jesus figuratively gave His life as He served others throughout His earthly
resurrection thewetruthfulness of everything about ‘Teacher, weJesus’ want You to do for usproves whatever ask.’ ministry, and thenHe Heclaimed literally gave HisHimself. life for others
David Kemp David Kemp And He said to them, ‘What do you want Me to by doby for when He died on the cross.
TI
you?’ They said to Him, ‘Grant us that we may sit, one ’ve watched as the casket lid was closed at theon here is a hand humorous fable about flea perched on Your right and the other ona Your left, in Your funeral of my parents. were the backofofeach an elephant that wasThose crossing anemotional old, glory’” (NKJV). When the other ten apostles heard it, moments, but not a permanent “good-bye.” Instead, rickety bridge. Upon reaching the other side, the flea it theywas, got “I’ll upset with James and John. Perhaps the others see you later in the presence of the Lord.” commented, “Wow! We really made that bridge shake!” wantedJesus places of prominence for had themselves. said to Martha, who experienced a death When there is substantial progress made in our home or The with what in therequest family, provided “I am the Jesus resurrection and educators the life. He who our local church or on the job or at school, rather than give believes me, though he may die, he shall live” today call “ainteachable moment.” He addressed the(John credit to God, we can be tempted to think, “Wow! We really 11:25).* What hope that gives those who trust Jesus! group: “You know that those who are consideredinrulers made that thing shake!” Jesus’ boldlord predictions of Hisand owntheir resurrection (see overIt the Gentiles over them, great is true that “we areit God’s fellow workers” (1 Matt. 20:19; Mark 8:31) came true. “Christ, having been ones exercise authority them. Yet it shall not be so Corinthians 3:9). But Paul over puts things in the proper raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has among you; but whoever desires to become perspective earlier in that same chapter: “I planted, Apollos dominion over Him” (Rom. 6:9). Jesus’ own testimony great among yougave shallthe be your (1 Corinthians 3:6). watered, is: “I but am God He who lives,increase” and was dead, and behold, I am servant. And whoever of God Himself declares in Isaiah “I the am the alive forevermore. Amen. And42:8: I have keysLORD, of Hades you desires to be first that and is My and My 1:18). glory I will not give to another.” It ofname; Death” (Rev. isshall a dangerous to take glory or credit yourself be“Christ slave thing ofisall” risen from the dead andfor has becomethat the
A good example of Jesus’ willingness to serve others Jesus Christ, whorules will transform our lowly body that it that the MostHe High thedisciples’ kingdom of men, came when washed in His feet (seeand Johngives it be conformed to His(Daniel glorious body” (Phil. 3:20-21). tomay whomever He chooses” 4:31-32). 13:10-17). Because people in that day wore sandals and Jesus’ resurrection removes the terrorAfter of death The warning came true that very hour. an for walked from place to place, their feet got dirty. It was believers: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O Death, extended time—perhaps as much as seven years—he had customary for asting? servant to remove theisguests’ sandals. . where is your O Hades, where your victory? learned an important lesson: “I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my and washbe their feet. who But this was private meeting . thanks to God, gives us athe victory throughofour eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and Lordand Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:54-55, 57). Jesus His disciples with no household servants I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who The same power that raised Jesus from the dead present. And after none of Jesus’ disciples volunteered lives forever: for His dominion is an everlasting dominion, usthe today. Paul prayed the Ephesian tohelps wash others’ feet, Jesusthat himself did so. believers and His kingdom is from generation to generation. All the would understand “the exceeding greatness of His Don’t be content to be mediocre when it comes inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does power toward us who believe, according to the working to to being a disciple of Jesus. Be a great disciple according His will in the army of heaven and among the of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when basedNo onone what Jesus taught. inhabitants thefrom earth. can restrain His hand He raised of Him the dead” (Eph. 1:19-20). Paul’sor say Consistently be involved in topersonal Him, ‘What have You done?’ “ (Daniel 4:34-35). desire was “that I may know Him and the serving others and meeting Ask of King who gave a speech to which people power HisHerod, resurrection” (Phil. 3:10). responded, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” their needs. You may encounter someone who asks, “Is (Acts 12:22). Herod not set record straight, and Christianity true? did Is Jesus thethe only Savior?” Head
which rightfully to God. (Mark 10:42-44(1belongs firstfruits” Cor. 15:20). Firstfruits refers to the first Ask King Nebuchadnezzar, not this “immediately an angel of the Lordbecause struck him, sheaf of the harvest offered who to theboasted, Lord in“Is Old Testament straight for Jesus’ resurrection, faithbecause is only he NKJV). greatdays Babylon, that 23:9-11) I have built for a royal dwelling my did give to God. And he was eaten by is worms (see Lev. in anticipation the rest by of the as not valid as glory the person you trust. Christianity the and
harvest was coming. Jesus’ of resurrection guarantees only(Acts belief12:23). system that dares to base its claims on its mighty power and for the honor my majesty?” (Daniel the died” of the is coming; there are many who will founder’s resurrection. For any other belief system to 4:30).rest While the“harvest” words were still in his mouth, another voice Jesus taught us, “Let your light so shine before men, be raised from the dead. “The dead in Christ will rise attempt that would lead to failure. Put all other belief spoke to him from heaven: “King Nebuchadnezzar, to you that they may see your good works and glorify your Father
first. Then who are alive and remain shallAnd be caught the test and see! it is spoken: thewe kingdom has departed from you! they insystems heaven”to(Matthew 5:16). Our good works ought to point together withmen, themand in the clouds to meet Lord in people’s * Scripture fromto shallup drive you from your dwelling shallthe be with attentionquotations to God, notintothis us. article Be sureare to taken give credit the air” (1 Thess. 4:16-17). the New King James Version of the Bible. the beasts of the field. They shall make you eat grass like whom credit is due—the Lord. Jesus’ was in a glorified which is oxen; and sevenresurrection times shall pass over you, untilbody, you know promised to all believers: “Our citizenship is in heaven,
from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord
66 // 2017 // April 2017 //6December September 2017
David Kemp Kempisispastor pastorofofHickory HickoryValley Valley David Hickory Valley Baptist HickoryValley ValleyRoad, Road, Baptist Church, Church,2320 2320Hickory Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, Feelfree freetoto tocontact contact Chattanooga,TN TN37421. 37421.Feel Feel free contact him pastor@hickoryvalleybaptist.com. him at at pastor@hickoryvalleybaptist.com. pastor@hickoryvalleybaptist.com.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Born for a Purpose
T
by Stephanie S. Young
his month, we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. We perform plays and sing songs that remind us of His story. He was born to Mary and Joseph in a lowly, dirty manger for you and me. The angel told the shepherds, “The Savior – yes, the Messiah, the Lord – has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger” (NLT). How could someone born in those conditions grow up to be such a person to die for us? Jesus was born for a purpose and so are you. You are on this earth for a reason. What is it I am supposed to do? Why am I here? These are questions you will start asking yourself as you get older or maybe you do now. Don’t worry if you don’t know right now. Even though Jesus’s purpose was determined, he lived as a child and teenager just like the rest of his family and friends. Jesus had time to grow into what would be the purpose and vision for His life: to save us from our sins and give us another chance to have a relationship with Him. You may also be thinking about the neighborhood you live in, how much or little money you have, how you look or act, or even how old you are. How can I grow up to be someone with such purpose? What can I do that would be so great?
8 // December 2017
Well, to answer those questions, I will tell you this: God has given each of us gifts and talents to use for Him and to help others. Nowhere in the Bible does it say that you have to look a certain way, be from a certain neighborhood, or have a large amount of money to be a great person with purpose. Where you are now is only a step in the direction that God has for you to find your purpose. He has a plan for all of us, no matter how big or small. God tells us in Jeremiah 29 that he has plans for us, to take care of us, and to give us a future. Isn’t that great?! We are all here for a reason. Yes, we go to school to learn. At home, we spend time with family and may have chores to do. We play and visit with friends and family on the weekend. But, all of that is a part of our story and the steps to our purpose. During those times, we are learning more about ourselves and who God is in us. At this time in your life, enjoy being a kid. Find out what you are interested in and try it. Learn something new! Each day, each adventure is another step to learn what God has for you to do. You were born for a purpose! Stephanie Young is an educator with 20 years experience in the public and private sector. She has worked in various parts of ministry, but most closely with marriage ministry alongside her husband, Theodore Young Jr. of 20 years. As she completes her doctorate degree this year, she looks forward to what else God has in store.
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Red and Green—The Colors of Christmas? 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.
approaches, we would be well to keep in mind
A
Financial Peace University right now at my home church
the words of the apostle Paul in Phillipians 4:11,
(Westmore Church of God). In this week’s lesson, we
s yet another Christmas shopping season (frenzy?)
Coincidentally, I happen to be teaching Dave Ramsey’s
“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”
learned that by putting $660 per month into a retirement
When every commercial and online pop-up ad seems to be
account invested in stocks averaging around 10% annual
telling us that what we really need to bring us happiness
return (which is reasonable given the long-term track
is “more” of this, that, and the other, we can start to see
record of the stock markets), by retirement age of 68, you
why “red” and “green” are colors that are traditionally
would have nearly $3 million dollars! Notice that $660
associated with Christmas: we turn “green” with envy
per month falls between that average new car payment
when we see what our neighbors and friends have, and
listed above, and that new Mercedes Benz lease payment.
then we turn “red” and throw a tantrum when we are told
In other words, it would cost you several million dollars
we can’t afford to get those things for ourselves. Recently,
by the time you retire in order to make the neighbors
I was listening to a financial talk radio show where a caller
“green” with envy to show off your new car. But with that
was explaining his imaginative method for avoiding this
car losing 60%-70% of its value within the first four or five
type of materialistic envy. Whenever a shiny, expensive
years, that “green” has now put you in the “red” financially
luxury car pulled up next to him at a stop light, he would
speaking. Does that make for a Merry Christmas? Wouldn’t
look over and picture a flashing “red” sign in the air above
it be better to have a paid-for car so that you can invest that
the car, showing the amount of the monthly car payment
car payment and grow your money into some real “green,”
(or lease payment, more often than not). The imaginary
meaning dollars? (Yes, I realize in today’s nearly “cashless”
“red” number hovering over the car became a warning
society, this pun will soon lose its luster, as did gold long
sign for him not to envy a car he could not afford. I heard
ago). In the end, we are reminded in 1Timothy 6:7 that we
not long ago that today the “average” new car payment
truly cannot take it with us when we die: “For we brought
in the U.S. is around $490 per month for sixty months.
nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
I also saw a television commercial recently featuring
Or as Dave Ramsey quips, “I’ve never seen a moving truck
Santa Claus, no less, advertising that you can lease (rent)
following a hearse to the graveyard.” This Christmas, as
a brand new Mercedes Benz for only $770 per month—
we shop either in the malls or online, let’s also be content
wouldn’t your neighbors be envious to see you pulling
to enjoy the simple and lasting pleasures of Christmas—
into the driveway in that?
memories with family and friends, and a chance to reflect on God’s grace through Christ. Merry Christmas!
10 // December 2017
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Gò0dNews for Men
Who Are You?
W
by Andrew Towe
ho am I? What is my purpose? What am I
Jesus says, “Thou art Peter.” Simon has a name change
supposed to do with my life? These are all
or better yet an identity shift. Peter was not a common
questions that at some point we will ask
name like it is today. It would be the same as naming
ourselves. We will never understand who we truly are
your baby, Concrete. Jesus was saying you are no longer
until we know who God is. He is the one who made
sand blowing in the wind, but you are as solid as stone.
you. He knows everything about you and loves you.
You are not what everyone has said about you or what
I believe the greatest teaching on Identity is found
you have even felt about yourself. I speak to the man of
in Matthew 16:13-19. Jesus asks Simon, “Who do
God in you. You are called to be a builder of the church
men say that I am?” He said, “some say Elijah, others
with the revelation that I am the son of God.
Jeremiah or one of the other great prophets.” Jesus says,
Jesus sees greatness in you. Your identity is not
“Who do you say that I am?” Simon says, “You are the
what life has dictated to you or what society has tried to
Christ, the son of the living God.” That one answer
shape you to be. You are who God says you are!
released Simon’s true identity and new mission. When
The Bible says that “He is the author and finisher of
we live in the revelation of who Jesus is, then in return,
our faith.” He knows the finished you. He has written
He opens our eyes to who we are and the purpose God
every chapter and line in your life. Today, discover your
has for our life. Jesus answered him, “Flesh and
true identity and allow Holy Spirit to reveal the” who’s” and “what’s” that
blood hath not revealed this to you; but
you may be asking in your life. He has
my Father in Heaven.” Then in verse 18
every answer to all your questions.
12 // December 2017
Andrew Towe and his wife, Brooke, together pastor Ramp Church Chattanooga. They have one daughter, Giuliana, and are currently expecting a son this fall. Even as Ezekiel was carried out by the spirit to the valley of dry bones, Pastor Andrew has been called to speak the prophetic message of awakening to the Tennessee Valley, raising up an army of believers from the dry scattered bones and equipping them to advance the kingdom of God.
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Gò0dNews for Women
O Come, All Ye Faithful
M
by Kayla Stevens
y all-time favorite Christmas movie
How is it Christmas already? Where did October go???
is Holiday Inn. From the enchanting
Many times I start with the best of intentions
cast of Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire
during December, only to find myself carried along
to the whimsy of the holiday songs and sweet
with the hustle of the holidays, trying to add one
love story, I always look forward to when the
more party, family or church event, or one more
characters of Holiday Inn dance across my
school play to attend to my calendar. Sometimes
television each Christmas season. In the movie,
the Christmas and holiday season can feel more
Ted Hanover, played by Fred Astaire, quips one of my
like peeling a turtle than sipping hot chocolate and curling up with my favorite movie. If we aren’t careful, our hearts can be carried
favorite lines
away by the to-do list of the season without pause
that I think
to stand in awe of the Incarnate Christ. Like Martha
can easily
in Luke 10, we can find Jesus whispering to our
apply to our
hearts, “You are anxious and troubled about many
hearts during
things, but one thing is necessary” (Luke 10:41).
the holidays.
Our Christmas parties are good things. Our family gatherings are sweet treasures, and
“It’s going to be easy- like peeling a turtle.”
watching our sons or nephews perform their role as donkey #3 in the Christmas pageant is something we definitely want to make time for (and hopefully replay at their wedding!) But Christ
Often times the
teaches us that only one thing is necessary, sitting
words that are spoken
at His feet in awe and worship. It is my prayer for
from my lips about
us this season that we walk slowly to the manger,
December include It’s
to make time to sit in awe and worship of our King
going by too quickly! I can’t
who has come for us. Let’s adore and worship
seem to get everything done.
Jesus this season and be reminded of His great love and humble sacrifice for us. O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant. Come, let us adore Him!
14 // December 2017
Kayla Stevens is the preschool and kids minister at Ridgedale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, TN. She has a B.A. from William Carey University and an M.Div. from Southeastern Seminary. She enjoys reading, running, and cheering for Ole Miss football.
Eugene Pike, President • Stephen Pike, Vice President
84 Years of Service 1933-2017
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Mini Mango Rose Tart
F
by Ellen Oliveira
or as long as I can remember I have enjoyed cooking.
• Mix flours and sugar in a bowl. Add the coconut oil
As a little girl, Mom would always find me by her side
and mix very well. Start adding water little by little
seeking to learn how to recreate her delicious recipes. I
until the mixture becomes a soft, moldable dough.
would have never imagined that this passion of mine would
Make into little balls and mold the dough around
ultimately develop into my profession one day.
the edges of mini muffin tins coated with non-stick
I love healthful food and I get excited about creating dishes that are not only healthy, but beautiful and tasty as well. As one of the chefs at Wildwood Lifestyle Center, one of the blessings of my job is to have the opportunity to show our guests that flavor and health don’t have to be contradictory, but that they can go hand in hand. That they can enjoy delicious food while at the same time restoring their health. This recipe that I’m sharing with you is one of my alltime favorites. While my husband and I lived in the Philippines for 3 years furthering our education, we quickly discovered that the mangos there are beyond delicious. A beautiful, bright yellow, tender and sweet – they just melt in your mouth. With an abundance of this amazing fruit, I was determined to create some delicious recipes with them, and this just happens to be one.
Instructions for Mini Mango Rose Tart: Crust:
2 cups Almond Flour
spray. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes or until the crust becomes golden brown.
Filling:
1 can of Coconut Milk 3 Tbsp Chia Seeds 1/4 cup Raspberry All-Fruit Jam, or any other fruit preserve that you like. • Mix all the ingredients and let rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Topping:
1 Mango Mint Leaves
• Peel the mango, cut lengthwise around the pit then slice very thin to make the flower petals.
Assembling the Tart:
• After the crust cools, fill each tart to the top. Place the mango slices around the top of the tart to make a flower. Garnish with mint leaves. A delicate, sweet and fruity bite to finish your meal. Enjoy!
1/2 cup Garbanzo Flour 1/4 cup Coconut Sugar 1/4 cup Coconut Oil Water
16 // December 2017
Ellen Oliveira born and raised in Brazil. Ellen left her home and occupation to be trained in the US as a medical missionary. From there she moved with her husband to the Phillippines where she received her culinary arts degree. Currently, she serves as a chef at Wildwood Lifestyle Center.
LOVING & JOYFUL LIFE HOLIDAY PARTIES AT TOTTO
Matthew 28:16-20
LOCAL OR LONG DISTANCE MOVES
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Committing to Christ to Overcome Life's Struggles
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Rita Carr
My Journey Home Series Book 4 Devotional
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Dr. Rita Carr
THE EASIEST MOVE YOU WILL EVER MAKE!
Licensed Counselor/Author
Hope Unlimited Ministries serves Single Parent Families in the Chattanooga area , with outreach to other countries. The servant/ founder is Dr. Rita Carr, a licensed counselor providing a host of services to these precious families. Dr. Carr is the author of the “My Journey Home Series,” for which she gives Jesus Christ all the glory. This series, available at Lifeway Christian Store and Barnes & Noble, provides Christ-centered tools through a devotional, a study guide and two books that tell the story of her own, personal journey as a single parent, including the eternal Present This Coupon For 3:16). journey of her Gentle Giant: Victor Carr (John
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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 2003 Elmendorf St, 37406
18 // December 2017
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 Canaan Baptist Church 423.867.1003 4318 13th Avenue, 37407 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 423.697.7000 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 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
Catholic Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church 423.266.1618 214 East 8th St, 37402
Church of God 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 of the Union Assembly 706.313.3489 1014 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 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 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
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 2800 McCallie Avenue, 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran 423.629.4661
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 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 423.490.7039 4626 St Elmo Avenue, 37409 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
Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.864.8828 5821 Ringgold Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.893.7756 5455 North Terrace, 37411 Lookout Valley Church of the Nazarene
423.821.2332
136 S. Aster Avenue, 37419
Non-Denominational Christian Family Church 423.774.8888 88 Hunt Drive Rossville, GA 30741 The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Free To Worship Revival Center 423.650.9172 9966 Lovell Rd. Soddy Daisy, TN 37379 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 The Net Church Carmike East Ridge 18 5080 South Terrace, 37412 Ramp Church Chattanooga 423.531.7267 3975 TN-2, 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
Redemption To The Nations 423.591.7886 1908 Bailey Ave, 37404 Sharon Pentecostal Church 423.867.7088 1400 East 48th St, 37407 Virtuous Church 423.521.4440 5952 Brainerd Road, 37412 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 Valleybrook Presbyterian Church 6001 Hixson Pike, 37343
Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302
Seventh-Day Adventist Collegedale Community 9503 Four Corners Place Collegedale, TN 37363 Hamilton Community Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421 Orchard Park SDA Church 423.698.0707 951 N. Orchard Knob Ave, 37404
Wesleyan Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421 Haitian Reference Church 7725 Shallowford Road, 37421
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
O
Making Memories by Danny Hesterly
ver the past few weeks, this has been my
now, you have a family and desire to do things but don’t
conversation with my 8-year old.
know where to start. Let me give you a few thoughts on
“Hey dad, can we go fishing sometime?”
how to begin cultivating a family dynamic where doing life
“Hey dad, I’m probably the only kid in the world that hasn’t been fishing.” “Hey dad, did your dad ever take you fishing?” My reply to those questions were, “Yes, that’s highly unlikely, and yes.” Some of my fondest memories growing up were our
together becomes an everyday thing. 1. Listen to your kids. They want you to be a part of their world. Kids are smart. If they feel like you’re too busy or won’t make time for them they’ll stop inviting you into their lives. 2. Say yes as much as possible. You can’t overboard
family fishing trips. We go to Sam Dale Lake in Illinois,
and give them everything under the sun. You can say
get our campsite set for the weekend and my dad would
yes to shared family experiences. Be budget conscious.
go rent a metal canoe. He loved to fish. My dad would
Get creative. There are tons of ways to have fun without
row my sister, my brother, and me around that lake to the
spending a lot of money.
prime fishing areas. And we’d fish for hours that weekend.
3. Your yeses will empower your nos. There are
I don’t ever remember catching a ton of fish, but there was
times in my family when saying “no” is the best response
this excitement that I had just being out there with my dad.
to what they’re asking. But more times than not my kids
So when my 8-year old son started asking me to take him
understand there must be a good reason why dad or mom
fishing, it brought back memories of fishing with my dad.
is saying no.
I don’t know about you, maybe I just over think things,
4. Be honest. There’s going to be times when your kids
but when I hear my son ask me to take him fishing, there’s
ask you to do something and you’re not going to feel up to
a deeper ask behind the question. I really believe he wants
it. It’s okay to say no in the moment but make plans to do
to go fishing but more importantly he’s asking me if we can
the activity at a later time. Put it on a calendar so they can
do this together. I’m at that wonderful stage of parenting
see and know you mean business.
where my kids want me around 24/7. I know things will
So, when your kid asks you to go fishing, paint pottery,
shift a bit as they get older, but I really think cultivating
or something like that, say yes! Remember, it’s not the
a parent/child relationship that involves as many shared
activity that’s most important it’s the shared experiences as
experiences as possible will foster a growing relationship
a family that will make memories.
where it’s normal to do life together as a family. You may be reading this and you never had those shared experiences with your family growing up. And
20 // December 2017
Danny Hesterly is the family ministries pastor at City Church Chattanooga. He’s been married to his lovely bride, Erin for 13 years and has two wonderful kiddos, Micah-8 and Ava-6.
Church Activities & Events City Church of Chattanooga Christmas Eve “Eve” Service
Saturday, December 23rd 6:30 PM - 8 PM 7122 Lee Hwy Chattanooga, TN 37421
Woodland Park Baptist Church Joyous Night
Friday, December 1st 6735 Standifer Gap Road Chattanooga, TN 37421 Call for more info. (423) 899-9185
Grace Baptist Church Christmas on the Corner
Caroling, Cookies, and more family activities Sunday, December 17th 5:30PM - 7PM 7815 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Journey Church
Ladies Christmas Party
Saturday, December 9th 6PM - 9PM 1200 Mountain Creek Road #200 Chattanooga, TN 37405 Call for more info. (423) 364-6442
Hickory Valley Baptist Church The Greatest Story Ever Told
Sunday, December 10th - 6PM 2320 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
Abba’s House
Traditions Christmas Eve Communion Sunday, December 24th - 5PM 5208 Hixson Pike, Hixson TN 37343
Red Bank Baptist Church Hope Alone
Saturday, December 2nd - 3PM & 6PM Sunday, December 3rd - 6PM Call for more info. (423) 877-4514
FEATURED COVER STORY
Mountain View Chevrolet of Chattanooga by Emily Bangura
M
ountain View Chevrolet has history running
the business with twenty-seven family members working
back to 1981 when the auto group started with
throughout the organization. Their family and their business
Mountain View Ford. Their auto group grew to
believes in doing business the right way. They have many
include Mountain View Nissan and then the Chevrolet store
employees at Mountain View Chevrolet, and they are able to
was added in July 2007. While Mountain View Chevrolet
handle any situation and find quick and efficient resolutions
went through the hard times of 2008, it has emerged
to every puzzle.
stronger and become the 5th largest Chevy dealership
Because of their problem-solving abilities, they have one
in Tennessee and the largest volume Chevy dealer in the
of the largest and highest satisfaction ratings of any Chevy
Tennessee Valley, which spans Nashville to North Georgia.
dealer in their area. With managers like Scott Hartmann,
In 2008, they were waiting for the FedEx envelope
Craig Brown, Jimmy Clark, Jason Whittle, Russ Liscomb,
to see if they would continue in business, but they never
Lanny Adams, Josh Brewer, Ben Roberts, and Brandon
received that dreaded letter and made it through the hard
Mathis and a hands-on owner like Andy Watson, they have
economic struggle. As the years have passed, they haven’t
one of the best teams in the area. They all believe in an
looked back. They are now the largest privately owned
open-door policy and find that by putting the customers at
group in Chattanooga. Since then, the auto group has
ease and making sure they are the priority, they are able to
added new dealerships--Mountain View Nissan of Dalton,
provide excellent customer service.
and Mountain View Dodge Chrysler Jeep which just broke ground on a new facility off the Ringgold exit. The auto group is owned by the Watson family. The family is very involved in the daily activities that go on in
22 // December 2017
One of the differences between Mountain View Chevrolet and other dealers is that other dealers don’t want to sell to everybody; they want everyone to have the opportunity to buy a new or nicely pre-owned car. They
don’t hold low credit scores against their customers. They understand that people go through hard times and they want to be the ones to help the customers get back on their feet. They are able to help people who may not get approved for a loan elsewhere by offering lenders that can help. The customers can utilize this opportunity to both get a muchneeded car and help recover their credit. Their lenders offer loans from$5,000 to $150,000. No matter the situation, with proper down payments and paperwork, they can get you into a car. Another difference between Mountain View Chevrolet and other dealers is their sales approach. They have sold over two hundred new Chevy units over their local competition because they want to sell everyone a car. Their goal is to get as many customers into their desired vehicle with the best deal possible. With this goal as their top priority, Mountain View Chevrolet earned the 2016 Chevrolet Mark of Excellence. This award is presented to the top five percent of Chevrolet dealers in the country.This is the third year they have received the award since 2012.
the local high schools and act as big brothers and big sisters for students there. They also give a Scholar of the Year award and a $5,000 scholarship to a scholar athlete every year. One of their involvements in the community is their youth baseball programs where they are able to support the young players on the teams. One employee said that his favorite part of working at Mountain View Chevrolet is that he gets to make a difference in peoples’ lives. He says, “Some people come in who have had a hard time. When you have a woman cry on your shoulder because you were able to get a car loan approved so she could take her kids around, that is more impactful than any paycheck I have ever gotten. A car is the second biggest purchase in your life and when you are able to do that, it’s a big deal.”
Mountain View Chevrolet likes to credit the dealerships success to their employees. Customers have come in and compared them to other dealerships saying that other dealers have made the customer feel “beneath the dealership” or “not worthy of shopping there.” Mountain View Chevrolet is a stark contrast to those as they welcome everyone to their store. When you walk in, you smell popcorn and see the big screen TV and chalkboard wall for the kids to hang out around. There are refreshments for everyone. Some people even stop by in the middle of the day for a coffee and to play catch-up with the employees. Their staff helps create a family environment where everyone feels welcome. They are not only family in the dealership, but they are also family in the community. They are able to partner with
If you are interested in finding out more about YOUR PREMIER OF NEW CHEVROLETS Mountain View Chevrolet of DEALER Chattanooga, call them at 423- AND PREOWNED VEHICLES, SERVING GREATER CHATTANO 266-0181, or visit them at www.mtnviewchevy.com.
310 E 20TH CHATTANO
423.266 mtnviewch
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 23
Gò0dNews for Everyone
I
When Mom Can’t Fix it by Pam Turner
have three amazing children. They are 25, 20, and 13. Their dad was my high school sweetheart. After almost 30 years, of a difficult marriage, their dad died. My kids and I held tightly to our faith. We often compare our story to the Bible story of the Hebrew boys. The book of Daniel discusses the story of King Nebuchadnezzar; he set up an image and commanded that all bow down before it. All who failed to do so would be thrown into a blazing furnace. The three Jewish boys Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to worship the statue. The three were brought before Nebuchadnezzar, where they informed the king that their God would be with them. Nebuchadnezzar commanded that they are thrown into the fiery furnace, heated seven times hotter than normal. The Bible continues to say that when the king looked in, he saw four figures, and not three, walking unharmed in flames. The part of the story that we have always liked is the part that says they did not even smell like fire. We have used that as our family mantra. We were conquerors despite the pain. We were hurt, but fully healed. There was not any smoke residue My daughter was blessed to do a summer abroad. She was attending the University of Lima, in Peru. Thank God! She was reaping her harvest, I bought the passport, got the needed shots, the extra travel insurance encouraged her to get her first credit card, emailed the host mom. Despite all of the planning, I got the phone call that was not on my
24 // December 2017
preparation checklist. Her relationship ended while she was abroad. My beautiful independent traveler said. “Mom, I wish I could come home. I want to be in your arms!” Oh Jesus! This was one mom could not fix. I wanted to tell her that this silly boy won’t even matter in a few years, but her heart was too broken to hear. I am a Christian Motivational Speaker, a Writer, and a Clinical Social Worker in my practice. I have counseled and prayed with hundreds of women through the depths of the depression that accompanies heartbreak. I have a standard repertoire of Bible verses to help the pain, but this angel is not a client; she is my daughter. I hurt when she hurts! I reminded her that when our hearts are broken, we limp along, wondering if we’ll ever make it to the other side of the pain, but she is the daughter of the Almighty. There is a destiny calling on her life. Her path was planned while she was in my womb and that even Jesus wept, when in pain. She knew that her God would never leave her. Psalm 34:18 says that “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” In the midst of her pain, I know she will not smell like smoke. Father, thank you for holding your daughter and her mother closely today. Pam Turner, MSW, LCSW. Founder of Pam Turner Ministries. She is an author, speaker mentor as well as a College Social Work Professor. She has over 20 years of clinical practice helping those who have experienced emotional pain. Her expertise in mending broken families, treating substance abusers and mental health counseling has allowed her to witness the healing power of God.
EquiTitle, Inc. EquiTitle, Inc. is a full service real estate title company servicing all of Tennessee. We offer title insurance, purchase and refinance closings.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
To Every Season by Amy Zumstein
“T
o everything there is a season. A time for
Since 2011 and the loss of my nephew, our season
every purpose under heaven; a time to
has been one of mourning but as the years pass, I can
be born; and a time to die; a time to plant
find laughter in the memories. I see the joy of this
and a time to pluck what is planted. A time to kill and a
Christmas Season. What season are you in right now?
time to heal; time to break down and a time to build up;
Look around you and see the season you are in for what
a time to weep. A time to laugh and a time to mourn.
it is. Do you need healing? Do you need peace?
A time to dance and a time to cast away stones…” (Ecclesiastes 3: 1-5). We are in the middle of the Thanksgiving and
My prayer for you during this holiday season is that you will recognize your season and allow the Lord to show you the things this season is teaching you. Each
Christmas season. To many this is the happiest and
season has a purpose and regardless of if we brought
best time of the year, but to others it is a very sad and
the season upon ourselves, the Lord knows the wind is
lonely time. As I’ve been thinking and praying as to
going to blow and the season is going to change.
what to share for this season, I always find myself at the scripture listed above. Let me explain. I love this time of year. It is my favorite. I love the
Embrace this season of love, peace, and joy. Look around you and see someone who needs you to be a part of their season. Smile as you shop, hug those you
cool weather and the family time. I love getting to give
run into, and tell those around you Merry Christmas.
people gifts. There’s the Christmas tree and the caroling,
You never know when those kind gestures will turn
the church gatherings and friends laughing but then
someone’s season around. Show your parents that
six years ago life happened. My family and our Christmas season changed forever.
Christmas isn’t just about the gifts, but about the season! “Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here. Merry
My 15-year-old nephew went to Jesus
Christmas if even just one. May the joy of the
on Christmas Eve. That changed our
season surround you, Merry Christmas with
“season”, but it was just that, a “season.”
love” (Song, Merry Christmas with Love by Clay Aiken).
26 // December 2017
Gò0dNews for Seniors
Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors
Seventy Years Strong Intergenerational Intersection Strength in Being Alone bywith Esmerelda LeeI have Staying and involved their church, theirlearned work in through the community, Being alone is a choice, I want to share what seniors. and their family has kept this couple’s love strong! by Esmerelda Lee uring the month of May, our oldest son Based on demographics alone, it behooves us as by million. Esmerelda Lee
D SI
graduated from high school. parents, ince I have begun my new job, IMy have been who
a nation to find way atofirm communicate. Highetyou hand andaoffer handshakeGilbert to someone
enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites like
adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his
hadAn notAffair visitedtoin five of years, made special said, “Wherever there are beginners and experts, traveling weekly. Most my time isaspent recently a restaurant. Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’encountered successes tointheir mother. He old didand say that he
trip to meeting see their oldest grandchild graduate, and enjoyed there isBetty some kind of learning going on, kind“some new people, andmove even though I am • Being alone is an opportunity to try newsome things. Thing, and others me more than some young, and believed in giving their children
of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmarkof teaching. good that helped every minute ofsenior the pomp andeach circumstance that goes We lickings,” are all an pupils and we who aretoo. allbegan teachers.” still working in living, week is completely Recently, I met older lady line
Channel. There is something to be said about the Interacting InShe a world where so many people along with anfilled American high school graduation. older adults enables youth to focus on their different and with opportunity. What I haveAs they dancing. with had never danced while married
Always Room at Your Table for One More purity and innocence of the courtship and love
own happiness and make life-altering decisions
rose to the singing of the American anthem, and develop social skills, problem discovered, however, is that aold lot movies. ofnational my time is spent morenetworks, than fiftycommunication years, but Inow that she depicted through I am also honored to for based on these motives, asked Betty and Mitchell
applauded when every graduate walked across the stage, solving abilities, positive attitudes toward and alone. Whether I am traveling, a hotel out room having found herself alone, rather than sit aging, inthe hersixty-nine home see these love storiesinplayed inor real life through if they were happy throughout years
A
older adults. that fell in love and marriage. “We lost, always it I saw tears intimes, their eyes. In South Africa, aexperience student’s final a sense ofof community service, according to Generations by Esmerelda Lee meals, most I am Couples alone. This new hasstayed and mope over years she worked decided toout, try and if we love through a world war, the Depression, life day of high isand the day caused meintoschool pause
didn’t laugh at eachsomething other, found someone or Unitedwe (2002). Older totally new.
challenges, and burying loved onessince are his death. something about. You’ll have problems in few days ago visited araising senior And to aslaugh if sheNever could read my thoughts, whenabout he orIshe takes the last at the hospital, adults benefit from think the seniors we foralso a moment couples that loved for life. marriage, but who doesn’t? You just have to talk it exam, walks around saying the positive mindset, and as wedaily, talked and held hands, we began to she squeezed my hands and replied, “Now I just curl up serve and the fact could a spectator discern Betty and Mitchell Lyle are a local Cleveland out,” Mitch replied. goodbye to one’s teachers, vibrant attitudes, couple that first grade at When I try asked if they ever fought, that many must feel themet in that this beautiful reminisce about Christmas. Asthe I talked about with an old Christmas movie, and to get through one Arnold Memorial School. For Mitchell it theyseventy-eight-year-old looked puzzled. “Who doesn’t and then is finally finished. and vitality of a same way. my plans, lists, and the hopes of our three children, day at a time.” wasalove at first sight. Betty believes that fight? We are both so different, and graduation younger generation. IBetween have thought many lady had lost a daughter I realized that tears were sitting at the brim of this My desire in writingwe this article during thisWhen holiday the grinning first-grader grew on her like different things. we party,of and helping with Studies show that times the ones who and a husband, because over time. According to Mitchell, they fought, the one with the strongest beautiful lady’s tired eyes, and she softly whispered, season is that people would be more intentional in houselost chores that needed youth involved in life have awere spouse. I can’t on each other but did not exuded so much “sweet” caseshe won.” Mitchell also added, “I am so happy for you, Es. Promise me that youWar will including seniors in their“We holiday traditions. get serious until after World II. compromised, butAndrew Betty made to be done fordifficult years, it intergenerational imagine how and love. Mitchell in the Navythem in 1943 theout most I am take time to enjoy it suddenly all spent with theenlisted children. Hold and I have always reached tocompromises. international my parents most mentoring arestill must be learning • Being aloneprograms is an students and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In close becauseto this season that you are in goes really during the Christmas season,opportunity mainly I was of their time with their 46% less because likely to begin sleep bytime. yourself to rely on He and remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, she said, grandchildren. Every using illegal drugs, not hearing that warm Christ. For seventeen fast.” I realized as I was bantering about my plans, one for many years. However, my background in about, going by beforeon his feet even touched “If there is something to 27% fight dryfound But each week when mail there isless something worth saving.” evening was with likely to begin using voice greeting each morning. Someshe older adults years has I hadmade become accustomed to constant love, my friend had no of plans ofland. her own. In fact, would senior living me very conscious of the fact was delivered to his aircraft carrier, On August 22, 2016, Betty and in-depth conversations about alcohol, and 52% less experience being alone because many of their families attention and sounds of seniors and associates be grateful if she could simply go backletters to herand apartment that the group most impacted byLyle depression and their Betty’s unrelenting her faith Mitchell will celebrate life, love and lots of humor. skip school, or friends may have moved. I have considered how always around me. When likely we aretoalways with that he return home kept their loveloneliness strong. seventieth Today,adults. these from the hospital in time forwould the holidays. during thewedding holidayanniversary. season are older My daddyit made sure that according to Independent daunting must be to walk into a restaurant or dining people, we often lose sight of God’s presence. When Mitchell and Betty were finally reunited lifelong Cleveland residents live at Garden Plaza at As we prepare to sit around our tables, filled My hope is that we make a point to spend time with he shared stories, spiritual Sector (2007). the war, they dated for eight short months When Cleveland Senior fear Living. Their apartment room andafter know no one. you constantly displeasing people, has little with guests, Ilessons amLoneliness mindful ofdifficult those that used toatenjoy our parents and grandparents, we to were married. graduating college, awards theyyour wonprimary fromifserving inblessed their vocations hebefore has learned in to My are parents were is they experienceAfter any age; people become focus. Proverbs Betty became a school teacher with Cleveland City and in their community, war-torn photographs these timelesshowever, traditions years past. Seniors are Encourage your life, and listened for hours onlyprove heretofor three I amin discovering myself that loneliness and have them. 29:25 says “Fear of man,children will tolook be a away snare, Schools, and Mitchell went to work for the railroad. of family members, and beside each recliner is a often forgotten amidst the hustle and bustle of the from the television and hand held devices and engage to his alone grandsons expressing weeks; being are not the sameone thing. Loneliness typically buttattered whoeverand trusts in the Lord is however, kept safe”their Later he became of the members of our City worn Bible. theirMost veryanxious direct opinions. When disagreed about a with time, love and open dialogue with our created includes feelings about a they lackmemories of connection (NIV).When keep trusting Him,have He will holiday season. of them struggle with seniors inThey yourwe family. And ifinchildren you no one Council. still laugh at each other and with each When asked what was the secret to loving other. There are also days where the laughter and subject, my father laughed and diffused the tension with memories that will last a lifetime. Intergenerational with others. I will not attempt to address loneliness; fill the void of being alone, because we are never of past Christmases, loved ones lost, failing health, that is elderly in your home, reach out to those in your each other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News humor, and I witnessed our boys seeking their Papa’s relationships to begin with however, I will attempt to address being alone. aloneyour indon’t Him.always have and loneliness. For them can busy be very community, your neighborhood, they the bothholidays stated, “Stay so you don’t get into anchorschurch, are the only voices heard in the and apartment. advice morealone and more each evening.to meet new friends. grandparents. They are travels, formed Iathave churches, in thesuch work • Being is an opportunity Through my recent discovered Betty and Mitchell werewith. married at First themMitchell it best, “What she forgets, I can I depressing, especiallytrouble!” if they have no one to share invite over tosaid share in your joyous festivities. Intergenerational relationships are key to the future involved place, communities and within the family unit. With and even It takes courage to step out of your comfort strength Him. I am When learning to laughs, walk with only one Baptist Church in 1946, and were always inin in remember. she I am happy, As I sat beside my good friend, I realized that she had learned a long time ago, there is always room for one their church, work, and family. They had two sons. though there were days she likeofme, of our zone, world,and notwalk just our country. According to the U.S. strongspeaking intergenerational interaction, our blue the she across the street and meet a new voice into my ear, knowing Hedidn’t will print guide me. no children toCensus holdneighbor. onto, the love her life had more your table. Bothand Tony and David were strong boys, raised byatwill always Bureau, by the year 2050ofthe nation’s elderly past help our loved youngme.” leaders define a clear vision for It takes courage to stretch out your a strong, no-nonsense working mother. Betty was passed away.population Tears came to my eyes, as Ito wondered will more than double 88 million, and their future. Esmerelda isiscampus manager Esmerelda Lee has worked in the senior loving, but she always made it clear that her sons EsmereldaLee Lee campus manager for Garden for Garden Plaza offor Cleveland, an what her holidays have been like the past two years the more frail, over-85 to 19they would Plaza of Cleveland, anover independent and assisted living industry sixteen years. would love population educationwill likequadruple she did, and
28 // December 2017 34 2017 34 // // June July 342017 // March 2016
independent and assisted living facility
living facilityasfor seniors. She operations and her husband She works a divisional for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children. specialist forthree Enlivant Andrew have children.Senior Living.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Praise: An Anchor for Our Souls by Dr. Cara Cochran
I
started this article several days in advance, but the day before
going well. To praise God when things are going badly requires a
it was due, I scrapped what I had written and started over. You
conscious choice, and not one that always comes readily to mind.
see, on that day, something happened that shook me deeply,
By stating that we should praise God in the hard times, I am not
and I had to decide if what I had written was true for me. I didn’t
talking about empty words that are merely a mask to hide pain
know how to pray or what to pray for. The article was always to
and hurt. God sees beyond superficial gestures, and empty words
be about praising God when things go wrong, but on that day, it
bring us no solace. But allowing ourselves to sink deeply into
became personal.
praise that goes beyond our human emotions brings us to a place
On Sunday, September 10, 2017, our Bible study class was beginning the study of Job on the same day hurricane Irma
where we can find peace that passes understanding, and even joy, in the midst of chaos.
was wreaking havoc for tens of thousands. Hurricane Harvey had struck just two weeks prior, and a magnitude 8.0 earthquake had just struck Mexico. The heaviness of studying Job was lost on none of us. Job lost everything in one day – all of his livestock, property, and most significantly, all of his children. Yet, what was his response? “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21). Was Job being simplistic or pious? No, but Job did understand a simple truth: when things are as bad as they can get, as counterintuitive as it sounds, praise is an anchor for our souls. Praise brings us promise, perspective, and peace. We have a promise from the Lord that He will never leave us. He will never change, and He has overcome the world. When we intentionally praise God in the middle of life’s storms, we are consciously recognizing that He is
How, then, shall we praise? One of our best means of praise
in control, no matter the circumstance. Praise ushers our minds
is found in the Bible’s hymnbook – the book of Psalms. When I
and hearts into the very presence of the Lord, and in His presence
cannot find the words to praise, I can borrow from King David
is fullness of joy. God’s Word is full of promises to anchor our
and others who poured out their pain to God, but still praised
souls when we are tossed about.
Him. The words of old hymns or new worship choruses can
Praise changes our perspective from the temporary to the eternal. When we praise Him, we are taking our minds away from
strengthen our hearts when our minds are overwhelmed. Yes, when we anchor our souls in praise, we find promises,
our fears, frustrations, anger, or hurt, and focusing on the eternal
perspective, and peace. Can praise change our circumstances? No,
nature of God. I often ask our Bible study class, “What will matter
but praise can change us.
to you in 100 years?” Yes, in this world we face trouble, hardship,
You may be wondering what happened in my situation.
and all manner of woundedness, but nothing can separate us from
Well, for me, it is still the day before the article is due, but God, in
the love of Christ. “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but
His tender mercy, has reminded me that I can praise Him through
on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is
my tears, and trust Him no matter what the outcome. “May the
unseen is eternal” (2 Cor. 4:18). Our tribulation on earth brings
name of the Lord be praised!”
about perseverance, and ultimately an eternal hope that does not disappoint, because of God’s love poured out in our hearts. Praise brings us peace. Our human inclination is to praise God when we feel like it – when we are joyful, grateful, and things are
30 // December 2017
Dr. Cara Cochran is the Assistant Dean of the School of Counseling at Richmont Graduate University in Chattanooga, TN, and a licensed counselor, and marriage, and family theapist. She is a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, where she teaches an adult Bible Study class.
Gò0dNews for Couples Seeking Kingdom Wisdom for Old Traps
T
by Theodore Young
he same challenges that met Adam and Eve
times have we, as Christian husbands, just stood on the
back in the Garden of Eden still affect our
sidelines and watched our wives call the shots when
marriages today. These issues not only impact
we should have been in place to lead or support her?
our marriages, but also impact our relationship with
How many times have we disobeyed the Holy Spirit
God. We can look closer at Genesis 3:2-13 and see acts of
and allowed something to happen in our homes that
rebellion against God.
displeased God and placed ourselves outside of our
Eve, being deceived by Satan, questioned God’s command about staying away from the tree of life.
Kingdom roles? How do we fight these challenges and resist the
Eve looked at the fruit, bathed herself in disobedience,
rebellious nature that dwell within our souls? It comes
and saw that she was able to indulge herself. In her
down to how much we are feeding and exercising our
indulgence she placed her desires above her creator’s
spirits. How often are we reading the word of God?
destiny for her life.
How much am I studying his word? How often are we
Adam’s sin was his passivity while Satan was talking to his wife and watching her consume the fruit. If your loved one stepped into the street and
praying to God asking his presence in our family? His words are a lamp to our path. It gives us direction. In those moments of weakness, we have to believe
there is an on-coming vehicle would we, as husbands,
Christ’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. We
not say something? If she were swallowing poison
need to remember that God hates pride and we have
would we not stop her? So why didn’t Adam stop Eve.
to resist pride. It is necessary to know that we can run
Passivity; he did not make the command God gave him
to God and confess our sins because he is faithful to
the priority. He failed in his role of reflecting God’s image in the world. He failed to remind Eve what God commanded and he followed Eve in her disobedience. When God came in the cool of the
forgive us. To sacrifice for God is good, but obedience is better. Most of all, there is forgiveness in the blood of Jesus. If husbands are being fed in the
evening, instead of running to God
spirit, we are better able to handle the
in repentance, Adam ran and hid
challenges of passivity and blame. As
from God. Adam ran from the God who created him and gave him authority, the God he
wives, it becomes easier to bring our husbands into decision making. As Kingdom couples, it is less
walked with and spoke
difficult to put us aside and
to in the Garden of
make God commands a part of
Eden. How many
our choices.
32 // December 2017
Theodore Young was born and lived in Bronx, NY, for 42 years. He has been married 19 years and is the father of two teenage daughters. He accepted Christ in his life 31 years ago. He works as a licensed social worker in the state of Tennessee for the last 8 years.
A Time For Traditions
For over three decades, Chattanooga-area families have made Samaritan Center events a part of their Christmas season traditions.
Our Hours: Sunday: 1-5pm Mon-Thurs: 9am-8pm Fri-Sat: Closed Our Location: 9231 Lee Highway Ooltewah, TN 37363 www.thesamaritancenter.net
From the Ooltewah/Collegedale Spirit of Christmas Parade to our Bag Sale, featuring our best prices of the year, or Grand Reopening Sale, featuring all new-to-the-store merchandise, these events are something you won’t want to miss. Enter them into your calendar today. You’ll be glad you did. Dates to Remember: Dec. 3: Spirit of Christmas Parade – Little Debbie Parkway, Collegedale Dec. 19: Bag Sale – All you can fit into a grocery bag - $3 in Clearance Store, $5 in Thrift Store.
Dec. 27-28: Grand Reopening Sale – All new-to-the-store merchandise. Best selection of the year!
Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
E
Fit Not Frozen by Evan Tyler Fox
ver wondered why we tend to gain weight in the
proper gear for battling the elements. Exercising in your home
winter? With all the holiday feasting, less yardwork to
is convenient but could wake your family or tempt you to
do, and more excuses to stay in where it’s nice and cozy,
just crawl back in bed. Hitting the gym has its benefits, but
it’s easy to see how the pounds can add up. As the New Year
remember you’ll have to deal with a cold or icy car. Evaluate
approaches, you realize that you need to shed a few pounds
which of these factors will spike or sink your motivation and
and tone up, you make a resolution, and then WHOOSH! You
choose what works for you.
open your front door for your first January jog and there you
Quick Tips
find an anxious winter wind eager to join you. What can you do when you want to get fit but your will is weak and the weather is harsh?
Early to Bed, Early to Rise
A wise man once told me, “Tomorrow’s productivity
starts the night before.” And with morning exercise, if you can’t get out of bed then you definitely won’t get out the door. Because the sun sets earlier in the Winter, melatonin (the sleep hormone) is also released earlier. Staying up too late or getting too much light exposure after dark inhibits melatonin’s effects, will not have you waking up well-rested; instead, you end up hitting the snooze button and beating yourself up about it later. Do yourself a favor – give yourself a good night’s sleep.
Preparation is Key
Preparing your gear the night before dramatically
improves consistency. For me that means having a chair with all my exercise gear right next to my alarm clock. The alarm sounds, I get up to turn it off, sit down, and start gearing up. It
• Start your Warm-Up Exercise Inside to Adapt better to the Cold • Cotton and Winter Don’t Mix, Use Synthetics and Wool Instead • Several Thin, Easily Removable Layers are Better than a Couple, Bulky Layers • Use a Bandana or Covering to Protect your Face and Breathe Comfortably • Beware of Hills and Ice, Wear Shoes with Proper Tread and Shorten your Stride • Dress Safely, Use Lights and Reflective Gear
Resolution to Reality
“For it is God which works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). If God has impressed you to live a more active life, move forward confident that the God who knows no failure will, with that conviction, provide all the power you need to make exercising not just a resolution, but a reality.
may look a little different for you but the idea is to make getting ready so easy that you could (almost) do it in your sleep.
In or Out?
Another important consideration is whether you’ll
exercise outside or inside. If outside, make sure to have
34 // December 2017
Evan Tyler Fox, originally from Greeneville, TN, is the health promotions liaison for Health Made Simple, a Christian health club serving Chattanooga. For more information about how Health Made Simple can serve you, visit: health-madesimple.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Neck Stretching, Leaning Forward, Tippy-Toed Christmas Anticipation
C
by Bill McGinnis
hristmas mornings as kids, my sister and I woke
seat,” the picture in my mind was too much. I was so
up really early. Many times we were sent back
absorbed in my imagination, I even caught myself making
to bed for another hour or two. Trying to stay in
“udn, udn” noises as if the bike was motorized, and then I
the bed when my heart was racing in anticipation of what
had to look around in embarrassment to make sure no one
could be under the Christmas tree was often a task too
had heard me. The anticipation had me standing on my
great for this youngster.
toes peeking in, leaning forward, straining my eyes in the
Sometimes I would sneak back into the living room with the lights out hoping to see the outline of any of the gifts that were left
dark to see if I really saw that bike. The Bible says that creation is doing the same thing, standing on its tippy toes straining to see something.
unwrapped. In
However, creation does it longing to see how many
the low light
of us are true believers in Jesus. Romans 8:19 says,
I could see faint outlines of what I
“For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are.” Apparently, in the Greek, this verse paints a picture
thought was
of someone literally watching with outstretched head,
the gift I
standing on tiptoes and eyes looking ahead, totally
had “always
absorbed with intent expectancy.
wanted.”
Mary and Joseph awaited the Messiah whom God
Then my
told them she would bear that first Christmas. Every birth
heart would
pang brought a little more anticipation of the Advent of
race even
Christ. There are birth pangs and anticipation again, from
faster as I
all creation this time for Christ’s Second Advent. Romans
imagined
8:22 says, “For we know that the whole creation has been
myself riding
groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.”
the new Big Wheel, pogo stick, moon shoes (now those were
Jesus is coming again and true believers are living life leaning forward in anticipation. They are telling their friends and family about this great gift of salvation from God. Like kids eagerly anticipating Christmas morning, creation is eagerly waiting for God to reveal Himself and
an accident waiting to
His true children. Jesus is coming back to save those who
happen!) or shooting
are leaning forward with tiptoed eagerness. Hebrews 9:28
a Red Ryder BB gun
says, “So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins
(“you’ll shoot your eye out kid”).
of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.”
But the year I thought I would get that Spyder bike with the cool “monkey hanger” handle bars with black simulated leather tassels and the “banana
36 // December 2017
Bill McGinnis is the minister of education and families at Ridgedale Baptist Church. He has served churches in Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee. His wife Anita is a mom and a Christian Speaker and Teacher. He is grateful to have his 4 children at colleges in Tennessee. He enjoys teaching Bible studies, riding a bicycle, making jerky, and grilling meat.
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Gò0dNews for Women’s Health
Vein Thrombosis
W
by Dr. James White
hile many still perceive varicose veins as nothing
In more serious but rare cases, however, hospitalization with
more than a superficial malady and cosmetic, this
surgical intervention by vena cava filter placement may be
unsightly condition may be accompanied by more
necessary for large unstable DVTs.
serious medical ramifications. Take the onset of vein thrombosis for example, superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), and deep veins thrombosis (DVT). Affecting more than 2 million Americans per year, the formation of thrombosis can result from a failure to address and treat symptomatic varicose veins of the lower extremities. SVTs are thrombosis in the more superficial veins. They can occur in the extremi-
Prevention To prevent the formation of SVT and DVT, there are certain precautions patients can take. If you have varicose veins, it is crucial to consult with a physician who specializes in vein disease for review and options. Other proactive measures include wearing medical grade compression stockings, staying physically active, and maintaining adequate hydration. The use of compression stockings and
ties, abdominal wall, and
low grade blood thinners
the breast. SVTs do cause
during surgical procedures
pain and discomfort,
has proven beneficial to de-
but are usually not life
crease SVT and DVT in pa-
threatening. DVT can be
tients undergoing surgery
life threatening. DVTs
with general anesthesia.
are blood clots occurring
Risk Factors
in the deep veins, most
Certain factors can
common in the pelvis and
contribute to the risk of
lower extremities. Due to the location and size of the thrombus, a DVT clot can potentially break loose and travel to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism (PE). Suspicion of DVT requires immediate medical attention. In fact, each year, an estimated 200,000 people die from PE as a result of the detached blood clot DVT blocking blood flow to the lungs as a PE.
Symptoms and Treatment When the presence of varicose veins are accompanied by symptoms such as pain, swelling, redness, or a sensation of warmth in the lower extremities, it is possible SVT or DVT is present. The best way to evaluate and diagnose SVT and DVT is by ultrasound examination. SVT, DVT thrombosis can only be detected through a physical exam involving focus venous ultrasound examination by a physician skilled in ultrasound interpretation and treating venous disease. Treatment of SVT is usually local care with moist heat along with Aspirin or NSAID medications, like Motrin. Treatment of DVT typically includes prescribing blood thinning agents such as Coumadin.
38 // December 2017
developing SVT and DVT. To name a few, varicose veins, surgery [especially orthopedic surgery of the lower extremities], prolonged bed rest, malignancy, and injury can all increase the likelihood of SVT and DVT. Some patients may have family genetic tendencies for thrombosis: coagulopathy. Coagulopathy can be screened by a battery of blood tests as well as a genetic screen. Don't let untreated varicose veins progress into a lifethreatening condition. With today's advancing technology, patients with vein disease have many options. Minimally invasive vein treatments like Radiofrequency vein closure (VNUS) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) have almost eliminated the need for more invasive procedures such as painful vein striping surgery. Even better, these procedures are covered by most major insurance providers when varicose veins cause symptoms addressing medical necessity. Dr. James E. White is a board-certified General Surgeon by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Surgeons. His office, Advanced Surgical Concepts (ASC) is located at 2290 Ogletree Ave, Suite 112 in the Hamilton Office Park across from the Hamilton YMCA. ASC offers a variety of cosmetic procedures including varicose vein procedures, laser skin resurfacing, facial fillers, minimal invasive surgery and liposculpture. 423-648- 4011 or visit www. advsurgical.com for a complimentary consultation.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Christmas Light by Rick Mitchell
C
hristmas is my favorite time of year. I love the
that the festivities on the plane were simply a surface
decorations, especially the lights. Some years
emotion of patriotism. Just as Jerusalem was dark,
ago I left all the familiar lights and decorations
there is darkness in the soul of each person who does
of home to lead a tour group to the Holy Land during
not know the light of Christ. The darkness all around
the first part of December. We were excited to go during
started to penetrate my emotions until I remembered
such a significant Christian holiday. Shortly after
that Jesus had come and He lives in my heart.
boarding El Al Airlines, we realized that our little band
In reality, most of the world sees December as just
of Christians was uniquely non-Jewish. The plane was
another month on the calendar, and December 25 is just
filled with Israelis traveling to their ancestral homeland.
another work day. They have missed the Messiah who
The flight was festive, with cheers and dancing in
came for the Jews and the whole world. They didn’t
the isles. Their celebrations increased with every
plan to miss him—no one has told them. How will
announcement from the pilot.
they hear without a preacher or missionary (Romans
After landing, we boarded the shuttle for our hotel,
10:14-15)? If you have the light of Jesus, you can go as
and then it hit me. There were no Christmas lights to
a missionary, or give so someone else can go. Become
be seen. No Christmas music to be enjoyed. No nativity
involved in spreading the Gospel so those, who are lost
scenes to remind us of the miracle of His birth. I should
in darkness, can find the Christmas light of Jesus.
have expected that. Jews do not believe the Messiah has come. They are still waiting for His arrival. I realized
40 // December 2017
Rick Mitchell is a fun type of guy. He is President and CEO of Sports & Rec Plus. Sports & Rec Plus is a worldwide ministry that uses sports and all types of recreation activities to reach people with the Gospel and plant churches. Rick can be reached at sportsrecplus@cs.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone 1
3
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’
When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 ‘In Bethlehem in Judea, ’they replied, ‘for this is what the prophet has written: 6
7
‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’
Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, ‘Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.’ After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.” 9
— Matthew 2:1-12
The Transforming Power of Christmas
C
by Kenneth Ware
hristmas Compels Worship | Matthew 2:2, 8, and 11 — Magi from the east were eager to see and meet the promised One who was born King of the Jews. They were looking forward in their pursuit to find Jesus, the coming Messiah. Being led by a star in the east, they found the Child Jesus in a house in Bethlehem. Going inside the house, they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Christmas should compel those who have found Jesus to stop and worship Him. Christmas Celebrates the Virgin Birth | Matthew 2:10-11 — After worshiping, the Magi heightened their worship by presenting to Jesus, a King born of a virgin, gifts fit for a king. Jesus was born from the house and lineage of King David, king of the United Kingdom of Israel. Herod was not a descendant of David; instead, he was a descendant of Esau. Herod was not qualified to reign as king of Israel. They celebrated the bornking’s birth by presenting to Him gifts of gold, incense and myrrh to represent the wealth of the nations, which is exactly what Jesus deserves. Christmas is about the celebration of the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, King of kings and Lord of lords.
42 // December 2017
Christmas Changes Lives | Matthew 2:12 — Meanwhile, the magi experienced a life-changing encounter from God. The encounter included a new dream from God, a new direction in life from God, and a new destination from God. They went to their own country by another way. Correspondingly, Jesus is the only Way to God. The good news of Christmas is that Jesus Christ alone transforms lives. Let Jesus change your life this Christmas. For without Christ, there is no Christmas. Christmas is not merely a holiday, but a Holy day. Magi experienced Three Proofs of a Changed Life. They experienced: ◊ A New Dream - v.12 ◊ A New Direction - v.12 ◊ A New Destination - v.12 Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M.Div. Member of Hamilton County Baptist Association and a graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary. He currently serves as senior pastor of New Sholar Avenue Baptist Church in Chattanooga, TN. Professor of Theology at Grace Bible Institute.
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