Gò0dNews dNews July 2014
Complimentary
CHATTANOOGA
Christian Magazine
July 2014
G ò0 dNews
Christian Magazine
Pg 4 Pg 6
About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Fight For Our Freedom by Pastor Larry Cockerham
Pg 8
GoodNews for Kids
Pg 16-18
That’s Not My Job
Pg 10
GoodNews on Money Matters The Looming Student Loan Crisis: Don’t Let It Happen To You! by Andrew Lee
Pg 12
GoodNews for Men Be A Man, Cry A Little by Cliff Howard
Pg 14
GoodNews for Women Fairy Tail Marriages by Melinda Nicodemus
Pg 18
GoodNews for the Outdoors Why Do You Do It? by Reverend Rusty Asble
Pg 22
GoodNews for Life A Decision For Life Blesses Cleveland Woman by Beth Henderson
Pg 24
GoodNews for Health & Fitness Weight Loss A Step at a Time by Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow
Pg 26
GoodNews for Parents Making Baptism Count by Craig Thompson
Pg 28
GoodNews for Seniors
Pg 19 - 21
Embracing Change by Esmerelda Lee
Pg 30
GoodNews for Everyone God is at Work In Public Schools by Jason DeHart
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.
God Bless You and Thank You! Writers Pastor Larry Cockerham Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow Reverend Rusty Asble Andrew Lee Esmerelda Lee Beth Henderson Charlton Lewis Cliff Howard Melinda Nicodemus Craig Thompson Bridgette Owen Jason DeHart
Delivery Sales Chris Isbill
Charlton & Paulette Lewis
(423) 716-3561 Jordan Mosingo (423) 210-0092
About Us Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have three beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, and Andrew. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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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 Pastors Desk
Fightingby:For Our Freedom Larry Cockerham I
ndependence Day – It’s a celebration of the founding of the United States of America. It’s also a celebration of the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. On this 238th anniversary of the founding of our nation, we celebrate the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. These two powerful documents declared our independence from oppression and domination by foreign powers. These documents continue to guarantee our liberty these hundreds of years later, but it takes more than documents to insure freedom. There were 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Many of these men suffered great losses to stand for freedom. They lost their homes, their families, and their fortunes. Some lost their very lives. History tells us that 5 of those signers were captured by the British, who tortured and killed them. Twelve had their homes burned to the ground. Two had sons who died, and another had two sons who were captured in the Revolutionary War. Nine of these brave men fought and died from wounds or hardships of the war. These men put their lives on the line as they said, “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” They gave up everything for the belief that “All men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” 6
July 2014
Over these centuries since the founding of our nation, many men and women have fought to preserve our freedoms, not only in times of war, but in times of peace as well. Many thousands have given their very lives. Someone said that the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. We also have to be ready to fight for it. But I wonder. Are we willing to fight for freedom today? And I’m not just talking about serving in the military. For example, are willing to pray for our leaders? Are we willing to stand up for the rights of others, especially minorities? Are we even willing to vote? Are we willing pledge our allegiance to “One nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all”? Freedom is not free. It costs a lot. But it’s worth every drop of blood, sweat and tears, every ounce of effort and every sacrifice required. It’s worth it to have the rights guaranteed by our constitution, including the right to the freedom of religion, freedom of speech and the freedom of assembly. The right to a fair trial and freedom from cruel and unusual punishments are worth fighting for. The freedom to worship God, pray and share the gospel are precious enough to give our lives for. As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s remember the cost of freedom and be willing to fight for it.
Pastor Larry Cockerham
is the Senior Minister at Living
Word Church in Cleveland.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
That’s Not My Job Philippians 2:5-8
Jackie,” her mother called, “will you go and get the dirty clothes out of the basket?” “I’m busy!” said Jackie. “So am I,” said her mother. “That’s why I asked you.” “That’s not my job!” said Jackie. “Since I told you to do it, it is your job,” said her mother. “You get those clothes. We’ll talk about it later.” Jackie went to get the clothes. That night Jackie was playing with her cat when her mother came and sat down beside her. “I was in a big hurry this morning and didn’t have time to talk about something important,” her mother said. “Can we talk about it now?”
“I do help you,” Jackie said. “I know that, and I appreciate what you do,” her mother said. “But if you only do certain jobs and I only do certain jobs, some things won’t get done. We are a family. Some things have to be done that aren’t on anyone’s list. That’s when we have to help each other.” “OK,” said Jackie. “I’ll try.” “Good!” said her mother. “Let’s think of working and playing together as a family as our real job.” Some Questions 1. Who divides up the jobs in your family? 2. Do you do only what you have to do, or do you do what has to be done? 3. How can you help others in your family? How can others help you?
“I guess so,” said Jackie.
A Prayer
“Remember when I asked you to do something and you said it wasn’t your job?” said her mother.
Thank you, God, for our family. Help us to live together happily by helping each other. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
“Yes,” Jackie said. “What do you think your jobs are?” asked her mother. “I set the table, and I make my own bed,” said Jackie. “That’s right,” said her mother. “And you do those jobs well. Is that all?” “I think so,” Jackie said. “What do you think my job is?” her mother asked. “You go to work,” said Jackie. “You cook and clean house.” “That’s right,” said her mother. “But maybe there’s a be er way for each of us to look at our jobs. Maybe my job is to help you and your job is to help me.” 8
July 2014
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Gò0dNews on Money Matters
THE LOOMING STUDENT LOAN CRISIS: by: Andrew Lee
Don’t Let It Happen To You!
R
ecently, countless national news stories have s ounded warning bells about the student loan “crisis” in America and how this crisis threatens our nation’s economic future, much as the “mortgage crisis” of 2008 and the “tech stock bubble” of 2000-01 had long-lasting negative impacts on economic markets. In case you haven’t heard, total student loan debt—over a trillion dollars now—has surpassed the total amount of Americans’ credit card debt. In Texas alone, the average college student loan balance is $22,000 per student. Many people, it seems, have come to the conclusion that a ending college means necessarily taking out tens of thousands of dollars of student loan debt. Certainly, there’s no denying that skyrocketing college costs (which seem to rise by double digit increases every year) present a fiscal challenge for students and parents trying to pay tuition, room, and board. But this is how crazy the situation has become: recently, a married couple phoned in to the Dave Ramsey radio show to ask for advice about their daunting student loan debt. As a couple they had $275,000 in student loan debts and, as a couple, they earned together $60,000 per year (that’s $30,000 apiece for the mathematically challenged). Here’s the kicker (which you may have predicted based on their mediocre annual salaries): this student loan debt wasn’t for medical school or law school; this couple has only bachelor degrees, one in sociology and the other in economics (ironic, isn’t it?). This indebted couple was never asked (nor volunteered) to say where they a ended college, but it certainly raises a couple of questions: (1) what school costs $137,000 per student for a 4-year bachelor’s degree and (2) who were the banker “bozos” who approved this loan in the first place? The bad news regarding the second of these questions—with Sallie Mae using taxpayer funding, we may all be on the “hook” for these absurd student loans. Dave Ramsey’s question (which went unanswered during this phone call) was pointed: “Where were your parents during this decision-making process?” It’s a valid question. Even if
one’s son or daughter is legally an “adult” at age eighteen and therefore “independent” to make his or her own choices, shouldn’t a caring parent have something to say before watching this son or daughter sign up for years (decades in many cases) of financial bondage? One would hope so. So, without further ado, here are some common-sense suggestions about how to avoid the true-life nightmare scenario described above. First, if you are a parent (or grandparent) of a young child, start saving NOW for college. Even a li le bit ($10/week) goes a long way if you have a decade or more to invest it into stock mutual funds and allow it to grow and compound. Unless the kid is a prodigy and starts college early (in which case he or she is on scholarship and you’re covered anyway), most of us have about 18 years to save and invest for college tuition payments; it’s not really a “surprise” that sneaks up on us. Secondly, if you are the college freshman, consider practical, realistic ways to lower your college costs by (1) working part-time while in college (2) a ending an in-state college with lower tuition and fees (3) applying for any and all possible grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Finally, unlike the couple described above, if you must borrow money to help pay for college, carefully consider what type of career (and salary) you are likely to get with your planned degree program (major), and see whether it makes good financial sense. In other words, it would be unwise to take out a hefty student loan for a major in sociology, or any other number of liberal arts majors for that ma er. Please don’t misunderstand me; I’m a big fan of the liberal arts, being an English major myself—it’s what I do. But it would be foolish to go tens of thousands of dollars into student loan debt when one’s realistic salary scale would require decades to repay the student loan. As the old saying goes, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” Let’s be smart. After all, that’s what college is all about, isn’t it?
Dr. Andrew Lee is Associate Profes-
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July 2014
sor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
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Be A Man, Cry A Little!
Gò0dNews for Men
by: Cliff Howard
I
’ve always been and emotional person, however, when I was younger I didn’t think it was very masculine to cry. I would sit in church and have urges to cry. I didn’t understand what was going on in my heart or why, but I held back my tears. My mom once told me that there should be no shame in my tears, that it was a way of cleaning us and refreshing our hearts. At a young age, that was some big information to take in. My mother’s advice and an old song, that I’ve heard all my life, changed my thinking. After pondering on what my mom told me, I decided not to hold back anymore. Wow, what a change! Later on in life, my wife and I were expecting our first child and received the news that we were going to have a li le girl. Around this time a good Youth Pastor friend of mine, who already had two girls, asked me if I was a “crier.” At this time in my life, I was confident in my answer, I took in a deep breath, puffed my chest out, and in the manliest voice I could muster boldly and firmly, that I cried like a li le baby. He then advised me that after having a girl, my crying would intensify 10 times. I have li le thought to the depth of his statement. A few months later my first daughter was born and as soon as I laid eyes on her I started crying uncontrollably. At that time I remembered that conversation with
my friend. Much to my surprise, my buddy was right. A couple years later when we found out we were expecting another daughter, my remembrance was shook again. This also came along with the realization of eventually having two teenage daughters at the same time. Could it get any worse? Why yes it can! As a minister I thought to myself, “Let’s see if we can turn this into some message material!” First I wanted to dig deep and see if it was cool to cry. Guess what? Jesus wept! Seriously, that’s the verse. John 11:35. But why did Jesus weep? He had a friend that had passed away. He knew, of course, the outcome of this situation, that God would be glorified, but he still had emotions and it caused him to cry. Well that’s all I needed, if The Man cried, then I can too! So as a man, the alpha male, the masculine epitome of America, it is okay to cry. Be proud of your tears. Tears are a language God understands. At this time my wife and I are expecting our third child. As you are reading this we probably know now what we are having. If this child is another girl, you might recognize me by the man with tears. But it feels good. My children know that I’m not worried about my appearance but that I’m overwhelmed with God’s love, to bestow inconceivable blessings. I tell them that The Lord fills me so much it leaks out my eyes. So if you are expecting any baby girls in your future, be prepared!
Cliff Howard Hus-
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July 2014
band, father of 2 girls and another baby on the way. Has served as Youth and Associate Pastor the last 13 years. Singer, Musician, Songwriter.
6337 East Brainerd Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
(423) 855-2001
Gò0dNews for Women
Fairy by:TalMelindae Nicodemus Marriages
D
o they really exists? From the days of Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty the idea of a Prince coming and sweeping of off our feet has been a magical dream. These stories always end with “And they lived happily ever after...” I think today’s versions of a “Fairy Tale” marriage may be a li le different. In my opinion it is unrealistic to think your marriage will never involve arguments or disagreements. Your marriage will be different from everyone’s because you are marrying your soul mate and you love him/her with every fiber in your body.
So the question remains do they really exists? Sure they do, but it is not as simple as “and they lived happily ever after”. A fairy tale marriage involves first and foremost commitment. The desire to be commi ed to each other no ma er what from day one till death do us part. They also involve being submissive. If women submit to their husbands and the husbands love their wives as Christ loved the church, as the Bible states in Ephesians 5: 22-33, then we will be striving to please each other. Another important aspect of a fairy tale marriage is compromise. Compromising your wants, needs, and desires for your spouses. Fairy tale marriages also have couples who are willing to work hard at it. Marriages are not easy and as humans we have the tendency to be selfish which doesn’t work in a marriage. We have probably all heard the expression “rose colored glasses” which simply means you are looking at the world with a “distorted” view making everything amazing. You look at your spouse and like they are the most amazing, beautiful, sexiest thing you have ever laid eyes on. The 3 D’s are a part of this marital equation as well and they are devotion, dedication, and desire. You are devoted to your spouse and only your spouse. You have their back in every situation. They have your dedication to be there through the good times and bad and through sickness and in health. You have the desire to be together and you enjoy each others company. You choose to hang out together in your free time. Last and certainly not least fairy tale marriages involve patience. Patience to deal with the husbands when they have the common cold, yet act like they are dying. Patience for the wives when they are PMSing and cry over everything. Patience to love, learn, and grow old together. Love in patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Melinda Nicodemus is Fairy Tale Marriages don’t just happen they are Is married to Paul and they earned. have three children. She is the owner and operator of Nicodemus Photography. 14
July 2014
FEATURED COVER STORY
C
haracterized by a series of ridges and valleys, running north and south parallel to the Appalachian mountain chain, Bachman Academy sits on 188 acres of lush greenery and beautiful woodland. Do ed with a pristine and beautiful seventeen acre lake filled with scale less whiskered Catfish, herbivorous Grass Carp, the largemouth Bass and the plump Sunfish, she sits anticipating her unique learners on the border of Cleveland, twenty minutes north of Chattanooga. Like a priceless ruby, Bachman Academy is a “hidden” gem, providing educational excellence to students who learn differently. Although the school has been in existence for more than eighty years, and has transitioned, few in the neighboring community are aware of its existence; its metamorphosis; and its work. Beginning in 1929 by Reverend John Lynch Bachman, the school transitioned from being a childrens’ home for orphaned children, and later re-locating in 1949 to its present location in McDonald. Later, it became a school for adjudicated youth. In 1999, Bachman Academy re-opened as a school for students with specific learning needs. Today, under the leadership of Mark Frizzell, CEO/ Headmaster, and governed by the Board of Trustees, Bachman Academy is a middle and high school, for day and boarding students who are diagnosed with specific learning differences. These differences include AD/HD, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Aspergers Syndrome) and other Non-verbal Learning 16
July 2014
Differences. The students who a end Bachman are intelligent, but have not experienced academic success in a regular public and/or private school due to their learning differences. To be enrolled as a student, a trained professional, must assess the student, identify the students learning needs and verify that the student is hindered from experiencing academic success in a regular class se ing. The psychological evaluation, (assessment) should not be more than three years old, provides Bachman with the rationale for using the methods that are used. A team at the academy reviews the student’s assessment, to determine if the school will be a good-fit for the student. Students with significant behavioral issues are not enrolled. Students between the ages of eleven and nineteen years may be enrolled anytime throughout the school year. Families are strongly encouraged to tour the campus and meet the students and staff prior to their enrollment. According to TEACH.com and supporting the findings of the renowned educator, Neil Fleming, “… an individual’s learning style refers to the preferential way in which the student absorbs, processes, comprehends and retains information, for example, some students understands the process by following verbal instructions, while others have to physically manipulate it….”
So although all students are created equally, they are equally different in their learning styles. Using this notion of the individualized learning styles of the students, Bachman’s classes and classrooms are non-traditional and out-of-the-box. The class sizes are a ratio of 5:1, (there is no second row of students) and all lessons are highly individualized, and taught using a multi-sensory approach. This involves using the auditory, visual, kinesthetic, read and write method as purported by Fleming. As an accredited school with the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Bachman Academy uses the same standards set by the Tennessee Department of Education, providing modifications where necessary. The students graduate with a high school diploma, having completed 22 hours of credit. Several of the students, graduate and enroll in small Universities, such as Lee University, Beacon College (which is a college specifically for students with learning differences) and other small community colleges. In addition, Bachman is a SEVIS approved institution, issuing I-20s, and enrolling international students. Some of the international students have arrived from Hong Kong, Nigeria, Korea, Dubai, the Caribbean, Canada and Britain. The domestic students typically represent ten states with about 70 % arriving from the southeast corner of the United States. In addition to the multi-sensory classes, Bachman Academy offers four skills areas, these include: Equine, Horticulture, Carpentry and Mechanics. Equine is taught by one of the reigning judges of the America Quarter Horse Association and the standards are the same as the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA). Therefore Bachman is able to certify riders levels 1-4. They work closely with a local veterinarian, learning skills like administering vaccinations and drawing blood from the horses. Bachman has a total of 15 horses. On the campus there is a riding arena where the students are taught the Western style of riding, and preparing for horse shows. Horticulture is taught by a Master Gardening Instructor. The students are taught to plant and manage the plants and vegetables in a greenhouse. They are also involved in seed and soil testing, as well as the sale of the crops. Carpentry and Mechanic are both
taught from all areas of these specialties. There areas include basic mechanics, tools and tool usage, machine safety, to the more advanced levels of blue print reading and/or to engine work. In addition to the multi-sensory academics and skill areas, Bachman Academy participates in service learning opportunities. Through Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association, (T.S.S.A.A) students are given the opportunity to participate in one of the local high and/ or middle school competitive athletic teams. Bachman students participate in after-school clubs, intramural sports, and other off campus activities. For example Bachman Academy was able to identify rowing classes, and archery for individual students. The school’s capacity is fifty students. This allows the school to remain true to its vision. As the only one of its kind in the southeast area of Tennessee, Bachman Academy is a SCHOOL. Like a charter or a magnet school, that has a specific focus, Bachman’s focus is different learners. Our teaching methods are intentional and deliberate. Some of the skills taught include, executive functioning and social skills. These promote self-advocacy, which helps the students to regain their self-esteem and self-confidence. These expectations and disciplines are the same as a typical school, “tapping potential one person at a time.
To learn more about Bachman Academy you may contact them at: 414 Brymer Creek Road McDonald, TN 37353|423.479.4523 Email: info@bachmanacademy.org | BachmanAcademy.org Issuu.com/goodnewschatt 17
Gò0dNews from the Outdoors
Why Do You Do It? by: Rusty Asble
W
hy Do You Do It? I get that question asked so many times throughout the year. Many people are confused by what I do…so here it goes. My name is Rusty…I am a Recreation Ministry Pastor. Sounds like a confession huh? Yes, Recreation Ministry is an unusual ministry. Yes, it has a broad scope of ministry avenues. Yes, it is many times extremely unique and jumps from extreme to extreme. Yes, insurance companies get scared by what I do. Yes, I am a Pastor. It began here. In 1979, I was permi ed to go to South Carolina to spend the week between Christmas and New Year with my Dad. I was 12. That was the week I can remember of an amazing revelation of my love for the outdoors that solidified a forever passion. I got to hunt and hunt and hunt. Whether it was rabbits, deer or quail it captured my heart. At the end of the week, Dad took me to Church. I was not a Church kid but I was with my Dad and that’s all that ma ered. We were riding in his truck going down this long country road with towering pines and hardwoods on both sides. This was the road we drove all week long to go to our hunting spots. As we began to pass his buddies driving the opposite direction I recognized their trucks as Dad waved to them. After about the third truck,
I asked Dad where they were going? His reply was simple, “hunting”. So I asked, “Why are they not going to Church?” His return reply was “they will never step foot in Church.” That struck me as odd. He then said, “Rusty, they would rather hunt before they would ever go to Church.” So in innocent most honest life changing statement I asked, “Then why don’t we take Church to them?” I remember Dad looking at me and smiling. So 35 years later I am doing just that, taking Church (Jesus Christ) to people. My foundation verse that Christ has used in my calling and passion is this… “Whatever a person is like I want to find common ground with him. So he will let me tell him about Christ and let Christ save him.” 1 Corinthians 9:22 Common Ground is the key. How you play and what you do for fun is that available leisure interest + creating relationships by allowing others to get to know you opens doors + allowing others to see something different (Jesus Christ) in you = a chance to share Christ and win others to Him. That is why I do it. So what’s your passion? How can you use it for Jesus Christ? Every believer has Good News to share. So take the time to share it in all avenues that you do.
Reverend Rusty Asble is the associ-
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July 2014
ate 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.
July Church Activities VBS Woodland Park Baptist Church July 7 James Street Church of God July 7-11 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church July 13th - 17th
Jerusalem Acres Church of God 1826 Dalton Pike in Cleveland TN. July 8th- 12th
Waterville Baptist -Cleveland July 14 -18, 10 am - 1 pm
Collegedale Church July 14th - 18th Friendship Baptist Church July 14th - 18th Church of the Highlands July 21st - 25th
Frankly teaching about building ‘normal’ relationships! He is the author, editor, or contributor to more than a dozen books including: SPIRITCENTERED COUNSELING; WHEN HOME IS WHERE THE HURT IS, COVENANT MARRIAGE, FAMILY MINISTRY FOUNDATIONS , FIRE, FAITH, AND FAMILY: A PORTAIT OF SPIRIT-FILLED FAMILIES. He is married to Dr.. Su Ann Vining. They are the parents of three daughters. He graduated from Lee College earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biblical-Historical Studies. He received his Master of Arts degree in Biblical Literature from the Assemblies of God Graduate School. His Doctor of Ministry degree is from Columbia Theological Seminary. The major area of Dr. Vining’s graduate training is pastoral care/ counseling. John Kie Vining’s ministerial experience includes serving as an evangelist, pastor, college instructor, and professional pastoral counselor. He is a licensed professional counselor in Tennessee. He has served as the Director of Counseling and Testing, Lee College, and Director of Counseling at the Church of God Center for Ministerial Care. Presently, he serves as the Director of Center for Relational Health. He is a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors, American Association of Christian Counselor, American Association of Pastoral Counselors, Fellow and American Counseling Association.
John Kie Vining, D. Min., LPC/MSHP
Fregley
Westmore Church of God 2412 Wolfe Drive Cleveland(423) 479-3415
Burning on the Inside, Shining on the Outside, What a Change in my Life!
MEET GRAYSON RUSSELL! SUNDAY, AUGUST 3 10:00AM AUTOGRAPHS,GIVEAWAYS,& MORE!
Chattanooga Church Directory 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 Silverdale Baptist Church 423.892.2173 7236 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37421 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
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July 2014
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 2007 East 27th, 37407 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 Highland Park Baptist Church 423.493.4111 1907 Bailey Ave, 37404 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 Lighthouse Baptist Church 423.624.4125 3777 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Lookout Valley Baptist Church 423.825.5335 23 Lilac Ave, 37419 Macedonia Baptist Church 423.267.6915 1156 East Main St, 37408 Maranatha Baptist Church 423.899.0571 1701 Hickory Valley Road, 37421 Mission Ridge Baptist Church 423.624.0424 302 Shallowford Rd, 37411 Morris Hill Baptist Church 423.892.2071 1804 Morris Hill Rd, 37421 Mount Paran Baptist Church 423.629.2377 1319 Moss Dr, 37411 New Grace Baptist Church 423.899.5510 7861 Lee Hwy, 37421 Orchard Knob Baptist Church 423.629.6115 1734 East 3rd St, 37404 Philadelphia Baptist Church 423.629.5786 2230 East 18th St, 37404 Pilgrim Rock Baptist Church 423.894.7548 1726 Church Rd, 37421 Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 423.892.0237 1441 Crawford Rd, 37421 Prospect Baptist Church 423.698.4149 734 Dodson Ave, 37404 Resurrected Reformed Baptist 423.698.8086
2230 East 18th Street, 37404 Rose of Sharon Baptist Church 423.629.9534 2001 Blackford St, 37404 Second Baptist Church 423.629.6039 1619 East Main St, 37404 Shiloh Baptist Church 423.267.3131 1708 Carr St, 37408 Standifer Gap Baptist Church 423.892.8596 8159 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 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 7501 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 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 East Ridge Church of God 423.867.7287 1512 McBrien Rd, 37412 East Side Church of God 423.624.8797 2105 Citico Ave, 37404 Fellowship Church of God 423.867.3194 3426 Clio Ave, 37407
Fourth Avenie Church of God 423.867.4545 3912 4th Ave, 37407 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Lee Highway Church of God 423.894.6982 7122 Lee Hwy, 37421 Pure Holiness Church of God 423.622.4667 420 North Holly St, 37404 Temple of Faith Church of God 423.698.2700 2139 East 27th 37407 United Temple Church of God 423.624.1037 2418 Dodson Ave, 37406 Vision Church of God 423.624.7170 4901 Midland Pike, 37411 Woodmore Church of God 423.899.0827 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407 Church of God in Christ New Hope Church of God in Christ 423.698.4115 1725 Dodson Ave, 37406
Nazarene Alton Park Church of the Nazarene 423.756.2468 4004 Dorris St, 37410 Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Brainerd Church of the Nazarene 423.499.8643 8101 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.894.8656 1202 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.624.2679 2099 East Main St, 37404
Community Church Cosmopolitan Community Church 423.622.3217 3031 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Friendship Community Church 423.698.3471 7 North Tuxedo Dr, 37411
Metropolitan Community Church 423.629.2737 1601 Foust St, 37404
Lutheran Ascension Lutheran Church 423.698.5047 720 South Germantown Rd, 37412 First Lutheran Church Pastor Mark McCrory 423-629-5990; www.first4u.org 2800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran Rev. H. Christopher Sheets 423.629.4661 www.gslcflock.org 822 Belvoir Ave, 37412 Saint Phillip Lutheran Church 423.267.1475 51 West 25th St, 37408
Methodist Jones Memorial UMC 423.624.6073 4131 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Mount Crest UMC 423.881.4165 8206 Cicero Tr, 37421 St John UMC 423.892.2257 3921 Murray Hills Dr, 37416 Wesley Memorial UMC 423.892.6446 6314 E. Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge UMC Pastor Ken Sauer 423-892-8451; eastridgeumc.org 1601 Prater Road, East Ridge, TN 37412 Stanley UMC 423.624.6729 501 Dodson Ave, 37404 Washington Hills UMC 423.892.8050 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Cleveland Trinity UMC 423.892.6926 9028 Warbler Ln, 37421 East Lake UMC 423.624.4921 2903 East 37th St, 37407 St Elmo UMC 423.855.0807 3030 Towerway Dr, 37406 Lake Vista UMC 423.892.4941 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Saint Mary CME Church 423.622.2742 1417 Wheeler Ave, 37406 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.855.2004 515 Airport Rd, 37421
Sheares Memorial UMC 423.698.4114 400 Glenwood Dr, 37404
Presbyterian
Non-Denominational The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Metropolitan Tabernacle 423.894.3377 2101 West Shepherd Rd, 37422 Carpenters Cowboy Church 423.867.4232 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Brainerd Hills Chapel Church 423.899.3098 5931 Pinegrove Tr, 37421 Chattanooga Church 423.892.2888 6188 Adamson Circle, 37416 Christian Church of Hope 423.855.0767 2330 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of Jesus 423.629.5051 2118 Wilson St, 37406 Church of the First Born 423.756.0704 3418 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Church of the Lord Jesus 423.265.8235 200 West 19th St, 37408 Mount Summit of Peace Church 423.899.0434 6925 Shallowford Rd, 37421 New Covenant Church 423.867.2121 3700 Clio Ave, 37407 Walker Avenue First Church 423.622.2982 2101 Walker St, 37404 Worlds Church of the Living God 423.622.2992 2110 Glass St, 37406 Pentecostal Emanuel Pentecostal Church 423.821.5261 4204 Ohls Ave, 37410 Sharon Pentecostal Church 423.867.7088 1400 East 48th St, 37407 Virtuous Church Pastor Richard O. Smith 4204 Ohls Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37410 (423)521-4440 www.virtuouschurch.org Word of Pentecost Church 423.624.2620 1722 Newton St, 37406
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 Trinity Presbyterian Church 423.899.9586 104 McBrien Rd, 37411
Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302
FREE Add/Update Church Directory Listings Today!
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Gò0dNews for Life
A Decision For Life Blesses Cleveland by:Woman Beth Henderson “M om, why do people always say I look just like you?”
“Because you do, son.” “But, how, Mama? You know, since I’m adopted?” “Because God knew you were going to be my baby, and he made you just for me.” That’s a conversation 11-year-old Douglas* and his mother, Jo*, have had more than once, but Douglas never tires of hearing the story of his birth, and Jo never tires of telling it. It’s a story about God’s great love, His sovereignty and His purposes at work in each of us, and it began years ago when Jo faced the reality of infertility. She wanted nothing more than to be a wife and mother, but endometriosis stood in the way of motherhood. Surgeries and fertility treatments proved unsuccesful, and eventually a hysterectomy became necessary and in 2000 that procedure ended Jo’s hopes of bearing her own children. But she was still determined to become a mother, and she and her husband decided to adopt. They contacted an adoption agency, but that avenue didn’t prove fruitful. Then, two a empts at private adoptions ended with the birth mothers changing their minds, one of them the day the baby was born. When that happened, Jo describes herself as a “broken person.” “I had finally given up,” she said. Li le did she know that not too far away, another family was facing a crisis of their own. A fourteen-year-
old Cleveland girl was pregnant. For months she didn’t share that information with anyone, not even her 15-yearold boyfriend. But with less than a month to go before the baby would be born, she finally told her mother. What happened in the next few weeks would be evidence that God had been at work all along. A teenage couple, unprepared for parenting, wanted to give their child a good home, and by God’s orchestration and timing, that led to the day when Jo’s mother was not feeling well, and so was home from work when an acquaintance knocked on the door to share that a friend’s 14-year-old daughter was pregnant. The baby was due in just a few weeks. Jo’s parents wanted to protect her from another heartache, and were reluctant to share this news with her. So, they waited a few days, but after a lot of prayer and with assurances from the young couple, they finally spoke to their daughter. Two days later, Jo was there when an ultrasound revealed the baby’s gender. She remembers that day well. “’It looks like your going to be the mom of a baby boy,’ the ultrasound tech told the young lady,” Jo recounts. “But she said, ‘No, she is,’ and pointed at me. Three weeks later, Douglas was born.” Now, 11 years have passed. In the intervening years, Douglas and Jo have seen the young lady who gave birth to Douglas, although he didn’t know it. His biological grandmother has held him and even bought him a treat one afternoon at the ballpark. He didn’t know that he was related to the nice lady who gave him popcorn.
Douglas knows that he was adopted, but according to the adoption agreement, he can’t know who his birth parents are until he is 18 years old. As for Jo, she has no regrets. “A lot of people will say ‘I wouldn’t know how to love a child that wasn’t my own.’ Well, he is mine. I probably love him more because I know what we went through to get him. It was a complete God thing.” And, she said, she’d go through it all again. “I wouldn’t do anything different, because then I wouldn’t have Douglas, and he’s worth it all.” She offers encouragement to others in the same situation, as well. “Don’t give up,” she said. “There may be heartache, but the reward [for trusting in God’s plan and timing] was more than I could ever imagine. We can’t see the future, but God can.” The following is a poem that someone shared with Jo after her Douglas was born, that she said clearly explains how she feels about the way Douglas came into her life: Not flesh of my flesh, Nor bone of my bone, But still miraculously my own. Never forget for a single minute That you didn’t grow under my heart, But in it. Author: Fleur Conkling Heylinger * Names changed to protect privacy.
Beth Henderson
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July 2014
is the Development Director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Weight Loss A Step at a Time By: Zona Hayes-Morrow
I
f you want to get the most out of weight loss, you need to pay a ention to your diet. You can pump up your weight loss and live longer by following my advice. You’ve got to aim for a healthy weight. As we age, we need fewer calories and weight can creep up on us increasing our risk for heart disease, diabetes and other conditions. You have to be physically active each day. You can’t separate eating (calories in)
Vegetables are lower in calories and they help move things through your system. • • • • •
pasta bread rice cereals beans
from activities (calories out). You have to eat a variety of whole grains every day. People need 3 servings every day of whole grains. This lowers their risk of heart disease and diabetes. You also have to eat a variety of fruit and vegetables every day, especially fresh fruit and vegetables. You need to choose a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and moderate in total fat. You need to choose food and beverages that are moderate in sugars. More and more of our calories are coming from sugar, especially in soft drinks. And these drinks don’t provide any nutrition at all. You have to choose and prepare foods with less salt so you can reduce your sodium. We need to use less salt in our daily lives but especially as we age, we never need to pick up the salt shaker. Reducing sodium, eating more fruits and vegetables, and eating low-fat dairy products are good ways to control your blood pressure. And by losing weight you are helping to control your blood pressure.
Starchy Carbs
You need to eat your starchy carbs, before 3 pm. When you eat them earlier in the day, you get all of the energy you need to stay active through out the day but you still have plenty of time to burn them off so they won’t get stored as fat. Then eat, fibrous carbs, such as vegetables, in the evening.
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July 2014
Hidden Calories
You need to look and research the foods that you eat. You would be surprised at all of the hidden calories. For instance, your morning la e. You might not think that it is that bad, but most of them have 500 calories. I would recommend that you save your money and save the calories by passing on all of these designer drinks. Just have a regular coffee with a shot of vanilla or caramel in it. Some other hidden calories are all of the salad and sandwich add-ins. Cheese, mayo, creamy dressings, and bacon bits may not be much on their own, but if you add just a li le bit of each of them together, and next thing you know you have 400 extra calories and about 40 extra grams of fat. You can add flavor with other things like mustard, pickles, onions, le uce, tomato and other veggies.
Keep Tabs
Research has shown that if you can keep tabs on your weight, it is easier to shed pounds and keeping it off. By monitoring the scale, you can quickly see what is working and what isn’t working. Just take it a step at a time. Even just a few li le changes can make the difference in losing those last 10 pounds. Pastor Zona Hayes-Morrow is a successful business woman, mother, bible teacher and Executive Director of Norvel Hayes Ministries.
LIFTING OUR COMMUNITY
Your family’s health is about more than just calorie counts and physical fitness. It’s about enjoying time with one another, connecting with neighbors and giving back to the community. With a focus on developing the potential of kids,improving health and well-being and promoting community outreach, the Y is a place where every member of your family can come together to get healthy, connected and inspired. Stop by your neighborhood Y today and see how we’re working to make our community a better place.
The Y. So Much More™
GIVE, JOIN, and VOLUNTEER TODAY! YMCA OF METROPOLITAN CHATTANOOGA 301 West 6th Street
ymcachattanooga.org
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Gò0dNews for Parents
MAKING
BAPTISM COUNT
BY: CRAIG THOMPSON
A
s a Christian parent, water baptism is an important part of your child’s faith journey. Without disputing details, the “right age” for your child to be baptized depends on the child’s ability to understand their need for Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Once they have understood that need and have made the decision to follow Jesus, our job as parents is to lead them to the next step of obedience in water baptism.
But water baptism is more than simply being dunked in a (hopefully) heated tank or a river. Most people I’ve encountered throughout the church do not have a solid grasp of what baptism is and means. If that is the case, that means they are not teaching their children the significance of water baptism. The early church made this teaching a part of the Gospel whenever they preached or taught. How do I know? The Ethiopian eunuch asked Philip the evangelist if he could be baptized when he saw them approaching a body of water. The only way the eunuch would know to ask is if Philip preached that to him as he was preaching the Good News of Jesus. I want to offer a few points for you to share with your own children to help them understand the significance of what baptism means. 1) Baptism is an act of obedience. After we accept Jesus as Lord, one of our first acts of obedience is to follow Him in believers’ water baptism. Jesus commanded that His followers should make disciples by baptizing them (among other things). (Ma 28) 2) Baptism is a symbol of our own death, burial and resurrection. As Jesus bore our sins on the cross, died, was buried and rose again to new life, so we also die to sin, are buried with him by baptism and then are raised (out of the water) to new life in Christ. (Rom 6) Children need to be taught that this is a pivotal point in their commitment to Jesus. 3) Baptism is a public profession of our faith in Jesus as 26
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Lord and Savior. To that end, encourage your children to invite their family members, classmates, neighborhood friends to watch them be baptized. This is their chance to testify without ever having to speak that they have commi ed their life to Jesus Christ before their sphere of influence. 4) Baptism is a sign of deliverance. This isn’t talked about as much. When Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, they were being set free from slavery. Egypt is a symbol of our bondage to sin and self. Pharaoh determined that he would chase the Israelites down and enslave them again. But Moses stretched out his rod and parted the Red Sea. As the children of Israel passed through the water, Paul tells us that they were being “baptized” in that moment. When Pharaoh and his hosts tried to chase them down, the waters of baptism cut them off. Moses told the children of Israel to look on the dead bodies of their enemies because they would “see them no more.” A practical lesson to help your children understand this is to have them write down on a notecard or paper all of the things they don’t like about themselves, the things the devil tells them, the things they wish they could change about their character. When they are being baptized, put that paper in a pocket. Talk to them about the fact that the old person is dying to sin, the devil and his lies about who they are. When they come out of the water, don’t just dry them off and ignore the teaching opportunity. Sit down with them and have them write down what GOD has to say about who they are. Use their list of negatives to come up with a list of POSITIVES. Put that on their wall. Frame it. Make it visible so they can read what God has to say about them on a daily basis. With a li le planning and teaching, your children’s baptism can become a milepost they can reference for the rest of their lives.
Craig Thompson is a husband, father, author, speaker, teacher, and keeper of goats. walkwithgod.com.
Norvel Hayes
ATLANTA SEPT. 29th-OCT. 3rd Campmeeting DR. NORVEL HAYES ZONA HAYES-MORROW JOHN BEVERE CRAIG JONES ELAINE HOLLMER
World Harvest Church 320 Hardscrabble rd. Roswell, GA 30075
10:00am 7:00pm
Gò0dNews for Seniors
Embracing Change by: Esmerelda Lee
C
hange is often difficult for most people, and this is especially true of senior adults during their “Golden Years” of retirement. Often, change comes unexpectedly and quickly for senior adults, and coping with these changes can present challenges not only for the retiree, but also for their families. Physical frailty is inevitable as we age, and we may find that we cannot perform or enjoy some of the activities we once took for granted in our younger years. The passing away of our friends, neighbors, and acquaintances is another inevitable change that occurs as we age. Other changes occur in our routines and expectations. For instance, relinquishing one’s ability to drive a car independently is usually one such decision that is sometimes a difficult one to make, both for the senior adult and for his or her loved ones. Acknowledging that some senior adults need assistance with other daily tasks that they were used to doing for themselves is likewise challenging. Other changes occur around us, and these may alter our accustomed routine or daily schedule. For instance, our favorite luncheon establishment may close its doors or cut its hours of service; we may arrive at church one Sunday morning to find that someone else is si ing in “our” usual seat. But during these times of inevitable change—and remember the old adage that “the only CONSTANT is CHANGE”—I would like to offer some suggestions for embracing change in a healthy and positive way. First, let’s remember that change is not always “negative,” no ma er how it may seem at first. When I look back on some of the major changes in my own life, even those that seemed daunting to me at the time, I can see in retrospect how they turned out positively and allowed me to grow personally, socially, spiritually, and professionally. Secondly, during times of change, it is important to accentuate the positive aspects of these changes. Try viewing change as an OPPORTUNITY to grow in some new way and to open yourself to new possibilities and experiences. After all, where would we be if we had lived our entire lives saying “no” to new experiences? Thirdly, don’t panic. Change is normal and unavoidable. Everyone experiences it. Find someone to walk through these changes with you and alongside you to offer you encouragement and support. Finally, BELIEVE—believe in yourself, in your ability to adapt and to move forward. Accept support from your family, friends, church, and caregivers. Believe that change will work for your good, as the Bible tells us in Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” This means you!
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July 2014
Esmerelda Lee
is campus manager for Garden Plaza of Cleveland, an independent and assisted living facility for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
God Is At Work In Public Schools by: Jason DeHart
I
t is early August and hundreds of students are streaming in to fill bleachers and wait for the announcement of their new homerooms. Teachers line up to scan the crowd, rosters clutched in their hands.
Each student brings with them an individual worldview, and each brings his or her own challenges to the classroom. Some of them are devout, some of them are full of doubt, and some of them are just not sure what they believe. One or two of may be your children.
When I hear statements like, “We need prayer in school,” I think about these faces and the families behind them. In some households, there are adults who pray with their children. There is a family that sits down each evening for a meal, offering thanks before beginning to eat. In other households, children listen to their parents pray one moment and make lewd jokes in the next breath, or curse a co-worker. In a large number of households, prayer and God are not on the daily agenda at all. Of course, when these fresh faces have come in from the early morning sun, adjusting to a more regular sleep schedule and routine, I know of teachers who will have already walked the corners of their classroom, offering prayers for the coming year. I know of teachers who scan their rosters as soon as they get them and begin to pray blessings over their “fresh crop” of young people. I know of teachers who take the opportunity to discuss good behavior and the Golden Rule on that first day of school and, though they may not mention Jesus or the Gospel, in that moment they teach moral behavior, and they have a constant opportunity to demonstrate what Christian, moral behavior looks like throughout the year. This is not necessarily forcing a child to believe a certain way; rather, this is the process of teaching children how to grow up and become positive, kind people. I know of English teachers who take the opportunity to explain Biblical references in stories and poems, not for spreading a religion, but for reminding students that they need to be aware of ma ers of faith to be whole adults. It is impossible to teacher William Blake’s “Tyger, Tyger” without pausing to explain why the author capitalized “the Lamb” or to make mention of the figure of God represented in the poem. Finally, when I hear that prayer needs to be in public schools, I think of the large number of Christian students I have met over the years who will admit to praying, and who do pray for their schools. As Paul said to Timothy, “And the things you heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timothy 2:2). As a publicschool teacher, that verse says it all.
Jason DeHart is a writer and teacher. His work has appeared in The Literary Yard and The Commonline Journal, among other publications. 30
July 2014
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