Gò0 ò0dNews dNews May 2015
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CHATTANOOGA
• Coping with Change p. 6 • Are You Too Busy? p. 14 • Smell the Roses p. 28
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Writers
Reverend Karyn Bogert Reverend Brian Yaun Pastor Samuel Burger Andrew Lee Ashley Smith Beth Henderson Craig Thompson Danielle Jennings Karen Brummer Kendra Steveson Robert Green Shawn Brooks Shell Underwood William Lamb
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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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GoodNews Christian Magazine Chattanooga
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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.
May 2015
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Coping with Change by Reverend Karyn Bogert GoodNews for Kids A Special Gift for Mom by Danielle Jennings GoodNews on Money Matters What’s Yours Should Be Mine! by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men Are You Too Busy? by Pastor Samuel Burger GoodNews for Women Created to Stand Out by Ashley Smith GoodNews for Parents A Note to Harried, Frustrated, Overworked Moms by Craig Thompson GoodNews for Life Turning Troubles into Tools by Beth Henderson GoodNews for Health & Fitness Consistency by Shawn Brooks GoodNews for Teens Finishing Strong by Robert Green GoodNews for Seniors Smell the Roses by Karen Brummer GoodNews for Everyone May the Best Choir Win by Kendra Steveson GoodNews for Couples Putting God First by Shell Underwood GoodNews for Everyone Carriers of Good News by William Lamb
Signal Mountain Youth Camp
Pg 18-19
Pg 16-17
Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
I
Coping with Change by Karyn Bogert
asked a high school senior the other day, “So what are you doing after high school?” He responded by rolling of his eyes and shrugging his shoulder. “I don’t know! Why does everyone keep asking me that? How should I know what the future holds?” This young man touched on an age-old dilemma. None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. However, there are times in our lives when change and transition seem to be the order of the day. During these times of uncertainty or transition, it is easy to feel apprehension about the future. We would like to think that after the changeover from adolescence to adulthood, these times of transition will diminish. However, that is rarely the case. It seems we are always confronted with change. We change schools, jobs, automobiles, clothes, homes, and our appearance. Our relationships change in many ways, too. During our lifetime we might marry, have children, divorce, or become widowed. Even our roles within the family can change. At any given time, we might be a spouse, parent, child and/or caregiver for our children or our parents. Even friends, family, and significant others can change. These transitions can be more difficult than we expect. As we age, our self-image can change as well. Perhaps you’ve noticed that it’s more difficult to keep
6 // May 2015
up with things than it used to be. Maybe you can’t do the same things you used to enjoy. Personally, I find it very difficult to stay current on the rapid changes in technology! It was a humbling learning experience to be taught to use my smart phone by someone young enough to be my child. Whether we like it or not, change is the one constant in our lives. During these times, we can become frustrated, confused, resentful, depressed, fearful, or withdrawn. However, these are also times when we are challenged to adapt, to grow, and to transform. Most often, we employ our own coping skills to deal with life’s situations. We try to look at the big picture and not obsess on the problem. We find support and seek advice from trusted friends and family. We watch a movie, listen to our favorite music, or take a walk to relieve stress. We try to change the way we look at the situation and seek a fresh perspective. When our best efforts fail, we may seek help from a counselor or a minister. Many of us turn to our
faith to deal with life's changes. But sometimes, we can experience difficult times in our spiritual journey when we have to ask difficult questions of our childhood understanding of Scripture and struggle to grow into a more mature faith. It seems our journey of faith, too, can (and should) experience growth and transition. With all of this change in life, is there anything that we can count on? Yes! We can count on God’s grace and love for us. The prophet Isaiah delivered this message from God, “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God” (41:10 NIV). While everything around us might change, God’s love for us will not. God is the constant in our lives. God will continue to love us and extend grace even when we fail. No matter what we are experiencing, God continues to give us hope and strength to find new opportunities in the challenges and transitions of life. Blessings on your journey!
Reverend Karyn Bogert ministers at First Christian Church of Cleveland, TN.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
A Special Gift for Mom N by Danielle Jennings
othing says Mother’s Day like a sentimental, handmade gift. From handprints in clay to handcrafted cards,
Mother’s Day is not complete without those gifts that are made with love. It is also not complete without flowers. Any type of flower, as long as it is given with love, is never a bad flower! So why not create flowers out of handprints? What a special way to deliver those flowers to Mom!
What you’ll need: • White sheet of paper
• Green paint for the stems • 4 other colors of paint • 1 color for the ribbon
• 3 colors that you want your flowers to be (Mom’s favorite colors would look nice!) • Paintbrushes
• Sponge to apply paint to hands!
How to:
• Apply the first color of paint to one of your hands • Press hand down firmly on piece of paper
• Apply second color of paint to the other hand
• Press down firmly overlapping the thumb on the first hand • Next, paint the stems with green paint from the palms to the bottom edge of the paper • Allow those hands and stems to dry for a few minutes • Apply the third color of paint to one of your hands, and overlap the other two handprints in the middle. • Your fingers should be right about where the thumbs are • Press hand firmly down on the paper
• Paint a green stem from that palm downward to the edge of the page. • Using your 4th color, paint a ribbon around the stems where they come together. • Let dry and present to Mom on Mother’s Day!
8 // May 2015
Danielle Jennings is the director of children’s ministry at Ooltewah United Methodist. She is a graduate of Lee University and is currently working on her master’s degree. Her passion is working with children and helping them succeed.
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Gò0dNews on Money Matters
T
What’s Yours Should Be Mine! by Andrew Lee
he Bible is clear that covetousness (envy) is a sin.
Malema claims that his next brilliant idea, after land
If you’re unclear about this, refer to the Ten Com-
occupation, is to simply “take over the banking system” of
mandments. So often when it comes to our financial
South Africa. Why wouldn’t that plan work? The answer
situation, we look around at those whom we perceive to
to this question has implications for our own spiritual and
be more financially successful and we think to ourselves, If
financial battles against greed and covetousness. Obvious-
only I had what he or she has, then I would have it made! I wish I
ly, God calls us to help the poor and to give to the needy;
had that house or that car or those clothes, and so forth.”
the Scriptures state that clearly, and the verses are numer-
Rather than envying others’ material possessions and
ous. But how we do that—wisely, soberly, prayerfully, and
monetary wealth, how often do we really consider the
thoughtfully—is essential. Spontaneous giving certainly
diligence, talent, and time that it usually takes to achieve
has its place, and Christians should be open to that if the
this level of financial success? In our microwave culture
Lord leads them to do so. But for larger and longer-term
of instant gratification, we want the end results without
charitable commitments, due diligence is in order.
putting in the effort or possessing the talent necessary to produce those results. Moreover, what would happen if we actually could somehow simply have those possessions immediately without earning them for ourselves? Would we be happy then? While I was visiting South Africa
What would happen if Malema were successful in occupying land and forcefully taking control of the South African banking system? Would masses of his poor followers suddenly get bags of cash and luxurious homes and cars? Of course not. Chaos and anarchy would erupt, quickly leading to a
recently, I read in the newspapers about
dictatorship as has often been the case in
a rising young politician named Julius
countless nations throughout history.
Malema who had broken away from the
We need look no further than South
ruling African National Congress party
Africa’s neighboring country, Zimba-
to create his own faction, a group which
bwe, and the lunacy of Robert Mugabe’s
called itself the Economic Freedom
iron-fisted rule, to predict the outcome.
Fighters. Malema instructed his fol-
Mugabe’s followers did precisely what
lowers to immediately take over and
Malema is advocating; they murdered
occupy any unoccupied land across
white farmers and took over their land,
the whole of South Africa. It sounds
all in the name of equality, and anyone
simple enough—just enter any land, lot,
who opposes Mugabe is either killed
yard, house, building, forest, mountain,
or imprisoned. Now those same Zim-
plain—and if nobody is living there,
babwean farms are wasting away, and
claim it as your own in the name of
the country is starving, with the highest
“squatters’ rights.” Don’t trouble your-
inflation rate in the world. We should
self with checking to see who might
be careful what we wish for, and not let
have purchased the land and might
envy poison our spiritual lives.
hold the title deed to the property. If no one is there presently, just take it. It’s yours.
10 // May 2015
Dr. Andrew Lee is associate professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
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Gò0dNews for Men
Are You Too Busy? by Samuel Burger
T
here was once a father who worked long hours
is their deep need and craving. Here are three sugges-
and did various activities with his friends in the
tions of how to meet that need: 1. The father/husband is to lead by words. What you say
evening after work hours. He enjoyed his life
and loved his job; however, there were problems mount-
can devastate or build. Did you know words have direc-
ing in his life. His wife repeatedly asked, “Honey, can
tive power over your spouse and children? One study
we please have at least one date night this week?”
revealed that the majority of men who were told by their
His son asked, “Dad, will you go to some of my baseball games?”
in prison. Understand what you say has a direct correla-
His reply seemed apathetic, “When I get time, I will.”
tion upon the direction your spouse and children take in life.
Men, don’t let your family suffer emotionally and spiritually because you are too busy. I heard one man say, “I wished I would have realized be-
2. The father/husband is to lead by example. It’s vital to speak the right words to your family, but it’s also vital to let them see you act. Children learn best when they see you live a godly life. There is one statement I’ll never
ing with my wife
forget: “Rules without relationship leads to rebellion.”
and children was
Understand that your conduct also has directive power
more important
over your family. It’s quite difficult to lead when your
than working my
example doesn’t match the moral guidelines you place
butt off to make
on your family.
sure they had
3. The father/husband is to lead by love. The best thing
things. I tried
you can do for your family is to love your wife. As you
to fulfill their
love your wife as Christ loves the Church, you will
needs with things
be leading by example. Tell your wife how much she
instead of myself.
means to you with a hand-written letter and in person.
I’m sorry I made
Show her how much you love her by meeting her needs
my family suffer
and desires. Why don’t you cherish her and nourish
in that capacity.
her? Be willing to meet her in the middle on disagree-
What good is
ments to show her you are willing to sacrifice in order to
luxury without
see her happy. As you begin to compliment, encourage,
love?” Your
and affirm her, you will reap a greater return. You’ll be
family needs
so glad you did.
quality time with you. That
12 // May 2015
fathers they would never amount to anything ended up
Don’t become so busy that you cannot lead your family effectively. Just be with them. Samuel Burger is the pastor of Chestuee Baptist Church. Feel free to contact him via email samuelbrgr@yahoo.com.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Created to Stand Out A by Ashley Smith
t one time in my life, I remember looking everywhere to find who I was. I wanted validation from those around me. I loved it when people complimented me, because then I could feel good about myself. But it also worked the opposite way. When someone said negative things about me, instead of just brushing it off, I would take them to heart as if that was who I was. For so long, I tried to be that girl who tried to fit in
crowd was doing it, then so was I. If the crowd wasn’t doing it, then I wanted absolutely no part of it. I didn’t want to be who God created me to be, and I didn’t know how to be who God created me to be. Women carry a lot of responsibilities. Some are mothers, wives, career women, and entrepreneurs. Many have more than one role, and it is so easy to get caught up with who the world thinks you should be— especially if you are good at what you do. When people
with the crowd. I listened to the same music as everyone else and talked the same as everyone else. If the
praise you, it’s easy to allow that to define who you are. But who you are is not found in what you do; who you are is found in the One who created you. God created us in His image and His likeness. He created us with a purpose that goes far beyond what we do in this world. Yes, He has given us abilities, talents, and gifts for us to be able to glorify Him, but those things in no way define who we are. I used to only feel confident if someone complimented my outward appearance, but now I know that no matter what anyone says, God calls me His beautiful, chosen daughter. But it’s not just me. He knows your name; He knows your heart. He knows those very things that you hide, trying to maintain that perfect image to the world. Yet, He loves you so dearly because you are His. He has called you to be set apart, to be different, to be uniquely you. He has things for you to do that only you can do. We have to stop living the way the world wants us to live and to stand out as women of God. We have to find our identity in Him and who He has called us to be, so that we can walk fully and confidently in the purpose He has for us. The best part about knowing who you are in Christ is that you no longer think you have to compete with anyone else, because what God has for you is for you and no one else. Let God show you today who you are in Him and what great, amazing things He has just for you!
14 // May 2015
Ashley Smith attends Cornerstone Church of God where she is the youth leader. She graduated from Lee University in 2010 with her degree in biology.
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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 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 Brainerd Baptist Church 423.624.2606 300 Brookfield Ave, 37411
16 // May 2015
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 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 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 Silverdale Baptist Church 423.892.2173 7236 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37421 Standifer Gap Baptist Church 423.892.8596 8159 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 Stanley Heights Baptist Church 423.867.8060 1512 Mcbrien Rd, 37412 Temple Baptist Church 423.622.1913 3200 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Terra Vista Baptist Church 423.892.3879 4412 Oakwood Dr, 37416 Tucker Baptist Church 423.510.9684 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Washington Park Baptist 423.899.9408 1823 Shepherd Rd, 37421 Westview Baptist Church 423.899.0127 9516 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Woodland Park Baptist Church 423.899.9185 6735 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421
Church of God
East Chattanooga COG 423.894.7926 4924 Hwy 58, 37416 East Lake Church of God 423.698.6522 2949 East 29th St, 37407 Brainerd Hills Church of God 423.892.2092 410 Friar Rd, 37421 City Church of Chattanooga 423.894.6982 7122 Lee Hwy, 37421 Church of God of Prophecy 423.899.4074 3927 Webb Rd, 37416 Church of God of Prophecy 423.894.0597 2201 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of God Seventh Day 423.899.5490 7504 Old Lee Hwy, 37421 East Brainerd Church of God 423.899.4755 8312 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 The Crossing Church 423.867.7287
7501 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 East Side Church of God 423.624.8797 2105 Citico Ave, 37404 Fellowship Church of God 423.867.3194 3426 Clio Ave, 37407 Fourth Avenie Church of God 423.867.4545 3912 4th Ave, 37407 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Pure Holiness Church of God 423.622.4667 420 North Holly St, 37404 Redemption Point 423-855-7321 3831 Ooltewah-Ringgold Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Redemption Point Highland Park 423.855.7321 1907 Bailey Ave, 37404 Temple of Faith Church of God 423.698.2700 2139 East 27th 37407 United Temple Church of God 423.624.1037 2418 Dodson Ave, 37406 Vision Church of God 423.624.7170 4901 Midland Pike, 37411 Woodmore Church of God 423.899.0827 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407 Church of God in Christ
Nazarene Alton Park Church of the Nazarene 423.756.2468 4004 Dorris St, 37410 Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Brainerd Church of the Nazarene 423.499.8643 8101 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.894.8656 1202 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.624.2679 2099 East Main St, 37404
Community Church
Cosmopolitan Community Church 423.622.3217 3031 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Friendship Community Church 423.698.3471 7 North Tuxedo Dr, 37411 Metropolitan Community Church 423.629.2737 1601 Foust St, 37404
Lutheran
Ascension Lutheran Church 423.698.5047 720 South Germantown Rd, 37412 First Lutheran Church Pastor Mark McCrory 423-629-5990; www.first4u.org 2800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran Rev. H. Christopher Sheets 423.629.4661 www.gslcflock.org 822 Belvoir Ave, 37412 Saint Phillip Lutheran Church 423.267.1475 51 West 25th St, 37408
Methodist
Jones Memorial UMC 423.624.6073 4131 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Mount Crest UMC 423.881.4165 8206 Cicero Tr, 37421 St John UMC 423.892.2257 3921 Murray Hills Dr, 37416 Wesley Memorial UMC 423.892.6446 6314 E. Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge UMC Pastor Ken Sauer 423-892-8451; eastridgeumc.org 1601 Prater Road, East Ridge, TN 37412 Stanley UMC 423.624.6729 501 Dodson Ave, 37404 Washington Hills UMC 423.892.8050 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Cleveland Trinity UMC 423.892.6926 9028 Warbler Ln, 37421 East Lake UMC 423.624.4921 2903 East 37th St, 37407 St Elmo UMC 423.855.0807 3030 Towerway Dr, 37406 Lake Vista UMC 423.892.4941 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416
Saint Mary CME Church 423.622.2742 1417 Wheeler Ave, 37406 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.855.2004 515 Airport Rd, 37421 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.698.4114 400 Glenwood Dr, 37404 Tyner UMC 423.892-0444 6805 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421
Non-Denominational
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 5952 Brainerd Road Chattanooga, TN 37412 (423)521-4440 www.virtuouschurch.org Word of Pentecost Church 423.624.2620 1722 Newton St, 37406
Presbyterian
First Cumberland Presbyterian 423.698.2556 1505 North Moore Rd, 37411 Central Presbyterian Church 423.629.1401 1815 McCallie Ave, 37404 Covenant Presbyterian Church 423.899.5377 8451 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Presbyterian Church 423.867.2717 4919 Court Dr, 37412 First Presbyterian Church 423.267.1206 554 McCallie Ave, 37402 New Hope Presbyterian Church 423.892.0853 7301 Shallowford Rd, 37421 North Minster Presbyterian 423.894.3773 4791 Hal Dr, 37416 St Elmo Presbyterian Church 423.821.1424 4400 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Second Presbyterian Church 423.266.2828 700 Pine St, 37402 Trinity Presbyterian Church 423.899.9586 104 McBrien Rd, 37411
Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302
Seventh-Day
Collegedale Community 4995 Swinyar Dr. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Hamilton County Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421
Wesleyan
Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
FREE
Add/Update ChurchDirectory Listings Today!
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 17
FEATURED COVER STORY
Signal Mountain Youth Camp Where Campers Experience New Challenges, Build and Renew Friendships in a Spiritual Environment.
by Brian YaunÂ
A
s I sat in my office in Lexington, Kentucky, on
and, centered among the main buildings, was a climb-
Tuesday, February 18, 2014, I received the call
ing wall. Beyond the trees, I could see a high and low
that changed the course of my ministry. The
ropes course for campers to experience team-building
Tennessee Church of God State Council had just voted for me to be the State Director of Youth and Disciple-
concepts. Gaga Ball, volleyball, basketball, and horseshoes
ship. My new assignment would be effective August 10.
were among other activities dispersed across the open,
That meant there still lay before me the responsibility
green field. Adventure lay just across the lake where
of directing the summer camp program for nearly 1,000
I discovered horseback riding and go-carts! This was
students in the Bluegrass state. Camp came and ended
definitely going to be an adventurous summer camp!
with many emotions. It was time to say goodbye to stu-
But wait! There was more behind the walls of the gym-
dents I had grown to love for nearly nine summers. My
nasium—an indoor Olympic-size pool with two diving
new ministry was starting in Chattanooga.
boards!
The Facilities
The Spiritual Side
My first visit to Signal Mountain Youth Camp was
As great as all these activities are to a camper, there
one of awe and anticipation. As I entered the gate, the
is still a more profound aspect of camp at Signal Moun-
ninety or so acres of wooded property with a lake for
tain. It's the spiritual side to camp. This is where camp-
fishing and paddle boats was the first thing to catch my
ers learn about the love of Jesus Christ and how sur-
eye. As an outdoorsman, this was going to be a camp I
rendering their lives to Him changes everything. That's
knew I would enjoy. To my right was a paintball course,
really what Signal Mountain Youth Camp is all about.
18 // May 2015
I know this because I experienced a life-changing
available on the web at www.cogtnyouth.org. The cost for
encounter with Jesus Christ at a Church of God Youth
camp is $100 before May 1 and $120 after and includes
Camp in South Carolina when I was 14 years old. They
housing, eleven meals, and all activities. Campers may
had all the fun activities there like Signal Mountain has
walk on for $135 based upon availability only. Canteen
on its campus, but those activities were only enjoyed
cards ($5) and camp T-shirts ($15) are available for
for the time they lasted. My acceptance of Jesus Christ
purchase on line. These are for students wanting to buy
as my personal Savior has stuck with me through the
snack items and leave camp wearing a memory of their
years. So here I am today the director of the same kind
amazing camp experience. A camp DVD highlighting all
of camp that forever changed my life.
camp activities can also be purchased for $15. So I've been in this new ministry assignment since August. The truth is, the most anticipated facet of my job as Church of God State Youth and Discipleship Director is yet to come—the four weeks I get to spend with students and leaders from across the Volunteer State high atop Signal Mountain. There really is no experience like Signal Mountain Youth Camp. It will forever change the life of any student who chooses to spend a week there. Traditionally, camp is where old friendships are reunited. It is also the place where new friendships are formed. But best of all, it's an opportunity for a student to encounter the love and acceptance of Jesus Christ. I
The Schedule Let me share some of the details of this incred-
hope to see you there! You can learn more about Signal Mountain Youth Camp by visiting www.cogtnyouth.org, or contacting Brian Yaun at 423-892-4831 ext. 2.
ible summer camp. Signal Mountain Youth Camp is a residential camp that runs from Monday afternoon until Friday morning. The exception is the Junior Mini Camp that begins Monday and ends Thursday morning. Campers arrive on Monday afternoon of their respective week and proceed through registration and then get unpacked in their designated cabin. Each cabin has two leaders who have been recommended by their local church pastor and background checked as well. There are fourteen girls’ cabins and twelve boys’ cabins. Each of the twenty-six cabins have been renovated and are ready for the 2015 camping season. The camp is located at 4400 Hassler Road on Signal Mountain, Tennessee. Camp is for students age 7-17. The 2015 camp season begins June 1-5 (ages 14-17); June 8-12 (ages 12-13); June 22-26 (ages 10-11); and June 29July 2 (ages 7-9). Registration for camp is conveniently
Brian Yaun is the state youth and discipleship director for the Church of God in Tennessee. issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
A Note to Harried, Frustrated, Overworked Moms by Craig Thompson
M
y wife and I have been parents for a long,
to Christian women. Read it again if you haven't done
long time (at least, it seems that way). One
so in a while. She also sounds like a woman who would
thing I've learned is that being a parent is a
look tired, harried, and sometimes frustrated. She
tiring job. Actually, it can be exhausting. As we celebrate Mother's Day this month, I look
does a lot of good things for her family that take up an immense amount of time in any given week, month,
around at the mothers of all ages in my circle of friends
or year. But when you read Proverbs 31, it doesn't talk
and reflect on their countenances. I see the mothers
about how this mom feels. It talks about what she does.
of preschoolers coming into church with little ones in tow. I see mothers pick up their elementary-age sons from class. I see moms of high school kids as they try to coordinate schedules after church. Mostly, the mothers I know look stressed, tired, depleted. They have looks of concern on their faces. Sometimes I see genuine sadness, especially in the mothers of children who are going in the wrong direction. I see looks that say, I'm doing my best, but I'm really not sure I'm doing this right! The children they love generally don’t give a sec-
• She gets up in the dark and makes food for her household. • She buys quality merchandise for her family. • She works with her hands willingly. • She remembers the poor.
• She's even an entrepreneur to help the family finances. And there's more. The key phrase is in verse 25: "She shall rejoice in time to come." Being a mom while you are in the thick of things doesn't feel pleasant. That's actually normal. Take
ond thought to the mental or physical condition of
the good emotions when they come. They
their mothers. They go through life ignorant
won't last, but they're nice. Think about
of the sacrifices their mothers make for
raising children as being more like you are
them daily. That's okay; they'll have kids someday. I’m not saying that there aren't some bad mothers. I know moms who have spoiled their kids. I know
in training for a grueling double marathon, followed by a triathlon or two. The real joy comes when you know you've completed the actual race. For moms, this is seeing your
moms who don't discipline their chil-
child launch out on his or her
dren other than to speak an idle threat
own and living a life of faith. It's
that everyone around (including the
seeing your daughter become
children) knows is a lie. The truth is,
a mother and realize that she is
those moms have a lifetime full of grief and misery ahead. When you
raising her child to honor God. So to mothers everywhere who are giving
raise an undisciplined and spoiled
their best: chin up! You're making a joy
child, you can easily reap a future
deposit every day!
addict or criminal. Proverbs 31 talks about the type of mother who is an example
20 // May 2015
Craig Thompson is an author and speaker. You can read more of his material at walkwithgod.com.
LIST YOUR Church Activities & Events Special Events Such As... •Revivals •Cookouts •Concerts •Fundraisers •Etc. Email: fernando.goodnews@gmail.com
Gò0dNews for Life
Turning Troubles into Tools Are You Allowing God to Use You?
“S
by Beth Henderson
o, how long have you been playing tennis?” “Just a couple of months.” “Well, you’re going to be great. I can tell.
You’ve got this, girl!” My daughter, Jamie, had this conversation with her
“demons” that may have possessed us for years. 4. God can turn our troubles into tools of mercy and instruments of grace. Thank God for His transforming love! So, what do we do with all this? Have you allowed
opponent on the tennis courts one day during a match. She
your troubles to keep you from getting in the game, so to
could tell the girl was very upset at her performance, and,
speak? Do you have hidden sins or past failures that make
encourager that she is, my daughter was trying to lift her
you feel unworthy to glorify God and help others? It can
competitor’s spirits. Conversely, she heard her opponent’s
be hard to open our lives up to others, because victory only
brother yelling from the stands, “Way to go. Do you even
comes after challenge, comfort out of pain, and healing
know how to play tennis?”
after brokenness. But don’t worry, broken people are the
I was so proud of my daughter that day. She could have gloated and made the girl feel the full sting of defeat,
only ones allowed on the team! So, what do you do now? • Acknowledge the mercy, compassion, and comfort
but she didn’t. She had compassion and acted accordingly.
God has offered you. Embrace it! Surrender your life
Why? Because she has walked a mile in that girl’s tennis
to Jesus—all of it!
shoes and knows what it’s like to be on that side of the court. The encouraging words of others has inspired her to keep trying even when it looked like she might lose.
• Allow God to set you free from the bondage of past mistakes and turn your troubles into tools He will use to help restore someone else and point them to Him.
Second Corinthians 1:3-4 tells us this: “Praise be to
• Take the first step of obedience by telling someone
the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
what God has done for you! Your story is what a
compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in
broken heart needs to know that healing is available
all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (NIV).
for them, too. It’s spring now, and with new growth outside, it’s a good time
In the Gospel of Mark, after Jesus had healed the
to experience new growth
demon-possessed man, He instructed him this way: “Go
inside. Look for how you
home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has
can comfort someone today,
done for you, and how he has had mercy on you” (5:19
and remember it was dur-
NIV). There’s good news in these passages for us.
ing a time of sorrow that
1. God is the Father of compassion. Compassion is sym-
the writer of Lamentations
pathy that causes one to act on another’s behalf. He will act
reminded us: “Because of
on your behalf.
the Lord’s great love we are
2. God is there to comfort us in our troubles. What
not consumed, for his com-
troubles are you experiencing today? Can you feel God’s
passions never fail. They are new
comforting presence in your life? If not, ask Him to help
every morning” (3:22-23 NIV).
you experience the comfort He offers. 3. God is a God of mercy. He sets us free from the
22 // May 2015
Beth Henderson is the development director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
S
Consistency by Shawn Brooks
tonecutters could hit their hammer on a boulder
be? Do you want to be the average you or the best you?”
hundreds of times without making a dent. Yet,
Everything starts with a mindset and ends with your
they keep hammering away. Finally, the boul-
actions. Do you think God put you on this earth so that
der splits into two. Many would credit this to the last hit. However, a stonecutter knows that it’s the constant
you would worship Him in an average way? “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot
pressure from all the hits before that caused the boulder
bare fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither
to split wide open. This is my mentality when facing
can you, unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4 NKJV).
any obstacle in life.
That is the secret of spiritual growth. What Jesus is
One of the most important and overlooked truths that has much to do with how believers can live a successful life has to do with how consistent we
saying in this verse is that if you’re staying in place, you’re not moving. How do you have a strong grip with Jesus? It is regularity and
are with everything. With life, as well as with
consistency that produces lasting
anything, the more consistent we are at do-
results.
ing one thing, the more of an impact it will have on our lives.
Another way of abiding is walking with the Lord himself.
When the new year comes
As 1 John 2:6 says, “He who
around, many people say they
says he abides in Him ought
will get in better shape and begin
himself also to walk just as He
to exercise, along with eating
walked” (NKJV). Walking speaks
better. The reason many do not
of consistency in motion. That
see change is because this only
means making time for God and go-
lasts for a short while, and then
ing to church. It means making time for
they go back to what they have
Scripture and prayer. If you are too busy,
always done.
then get up earlier. Go to bed at a decent
The same is true with spiritual
time. You will find time for what is impor-
growth and development. The main ob-
tant in your life. This will show you a test of
stacle that most people have trouble with
time in your own life and will show how you
is consistency. They may go to church for
produce results. Just ask yourself this: Are
a while, and then they may not come at
you producing spiritual and abundant fruit?
all. People may have a struggle with their walk with the Lord, but they tend to go back into doing what they have always done, obtaining the same results by doing the same thing over and over. The question is: “Who do you want to
24 // May 2015
Shawn Brooks was born in New Orleans and moved to Tennessee via hurricane Katrina, which tested his faith. Athletics have shown him to be patient and how to work hard. He will always be grateful for being where he is today, but heartbroken for how it happened in the beginning. Shawn graduated from Lee University with a degree in Business Administration B.S.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
Finishing Strong The Faith Journey Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint. by Robert Green
M
ost everybody I know has some semblance of a “bucket list.” For me, the bitter sweet is that I was able to check most of those off before I was twenty-one while serving alongside the U.S. Army Special Forces. • Jump from an aircraft from several thousand feet [check] • Don the Green Beret [check] • Fire some of the world’s greatest military weapons [check] • Ski in the glaciers in Switzerland [check] • Hike through the Bavarian Alps [Check] • Learn foreign languages [check] • Get a behind-the-scenes look of the Holy Land [check] • Travel the world [check] • Ride in the “Mystery Van” with Shaggy and Scooby Doo (okay, so I can’t check that one off yet). There are a few things, however, that I have not yet checked off my list. One of those would be checked off just a few days before my fiftieth birthday—to run a full marathon (26.2 miles). It took me a half-century to complete the challenge, but it is finally at the bottom of the bucket. The race took place on a cold, blistery morning at the Chickamauga Battlefield Park. The cannon’s went off and so did a few thousand runners who made their way around a short circle to wave to friends and family. Then off we went into the frozen tundra covering what would be equivalent to running across the Golden Gate bridge thirty-three times or covering the length of 415,008 human tongues stretched out in a straight line. The marathon has such rich history, dating back to Biblical times. The imagery of the marathon has been part of my favorite go-to analogy when speaking about
26 // May 2015
the Christian faith. The topic of finishing strong has been the most repeated message and has become my life’s mission statement. So many in this life start strong but fail to finish strong. History is filled with coaches, athletes, dads, moms, husbands, and wives, who began the journey with so much promise but sadly ended with so little to show for it. They thought the race was a sprint and got off to a good start but didn’t train well enough to finish the journey. I had used the Boston Marathon as one of my points to illustrate how mentally and physically challenging the race of life can be. Boston is known for a particular part of the race around the 19-mile marker where the infamous Heart Break Hill is located. Having to ascend this hill after a gruesome distance is tough. More people drop out here than any other part of the race, because their body is starting to shut down. At some point in life, everyone will experience heartbreak hill (cancer, divorce, bankruptcy, moral failure, death of a loved one, you fill in the blank ____________). During these moments, you have to trust and “[Be] confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6 NIV). Paul used rich, racing analogies throughout his Epistles, and this is perhaps my favorite: “You take over. I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar. This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting—God’s applause! Depend on it, he’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming” (2 Tim. 4:6-8 The Message). Robert Green is a 28-year-youth ministry veteran, an avid runner, spiritual coach, chaplain, and is now serving as an area director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes over the Ocoee Region. What he treasures most is his wife Teresa and his two daughters Mariah and Sierra.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
W
Smell the Roses by Karen Brummer
e have long heard the adage, “Stop and smell the
Louis suburb. It’s a balmy late summer morning with
roses,” but when does that happen?
clean air and beautiful sunshine accompanying me on
When we are children, we stop and smell nearly every-
my walk. I’m happy and excited about what my day
thing, and it’s all so exciting. And many of those early
will hold. Childhood . . . what a great time! Do you have
fragrances are embedded in our memories for a lifetime.
fragrance memories?
I have two particular aromatic memories that instantly transport me to a time long, long ago. My first fragrance memory is when I was about
The growing-up years follow those early childhood days of freedom. School, sports, friends, dates—not much time devoted to fragrances or things of the pres-
three years of age. During that year, we lived in Chi-
ent; the future is where it is! Gotta grow up! Very soon
cago, and during occasional drives, we would pass
we have a job and maybe a family. Time to sit back and
through a very distinctive odorous area. Much later in
smell the roses? Hardly! Now it’s work, work, work to
life, I learned that odor was from a glue factory near the
pay the bills which provide food, clothing, and shelter.
stockyards. I have smelled that odor a few times since
We feel the need to prove ourselves and get ahead. If
then (likely when back in the area traveling to visit fam-
children come along, it’s not a dawn-to-dusk day; it’s
ily), but instantly, I am that three year old with wide
more like a dawn-to-midnight day. Where did the roses
eyes peering out the car window with nose scrunched
go? They were still there; we just didn’t feel we had time
up squealing, “Eeeewwwwww!”
to stop and smell them.
The second memory is more pleasant. It is the
So when do we stop and smell the roses? Retirement
distinctive fragrance of flowering crape myrtle shrubs.
time is the prime time, particularly if you have down-
Each time I get a whiff of that light, sweet fragrance, I’m
sized and chosen an apartment in a senior-living com-
six years old walking to my nearby first grade in a St.
munity such as The Terrace at Mountain Creek. Relieved of the burden of maintenance, lawn care, cleaning, meal preparation, and clean-up, residents are free to finally pursue the fun activities that have been put off for too long like visiting with friends, pursuing a hobby, playing cards or games, reading leisurely, taking a daily stroll just for fun, and yes, stopping to smell the roses. Are you stopping to smell the roses? There is no time like the present. Now is the time to concentrate on enjoying life and the truly important things. STOP and smell the roses! Both your nose and your wellbeing will benefit!
28 // May 2015
Karen Brummer is the community relations liaison at The Terrace at Mountain Creek, where she can show her passion for seniors. She not only educates the public on the many aspects of senior living, but she also has a rich history of face-to-face contact with prospects, residents and their families. This experience, combined with her ‘real life’ role of daughter to parents in their 80s, gives her firsthand understanding of seniors and the challenges they face.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
May the Best Choir Win by Kendra Steveson
F
or many years, my family has been involved in
technical issues. Their microphones stopped working,
our local school’s show choir. It began in 2007
and we could not hear their vocals. Knowing all the
when my son made the Revolution Show Choir at
hard work that goes into competition, my heart broke
Lake Forest Middle School. After struggling in the begin-
with compassion for them. It was devastating knowing
ning of middle school, he found a refuge in this group
all their hard work had been in vain. I began to pray for
of great kids. Later, his sisters also became involved in
each choir. I asked God to please let every choir do its
show choir, and as a family, it became our passion.
absolute best in the competition and to please honor the
Every February we spent our weekends traveling to surrounding states to
hours of dedication they had invested in using their talents.
watch show choirs compete and
After praying, my anxiety subsided, and
watching our own kids perform.
I began to enjoy the competition. I was
After practicing for months, we were often rewarded with first-place titles. As the kids progressed to high
moved to tears by our show and blessed by all the performances. I wished that all the choirs could
school and became part of the Vocal
win. Truthfully, God had given
Motion Show Choir, it became more
me a grateful and humble
difficult to place in the competition.
attitude, and I would have been
This choir had faced some challenges
thrilled with the outcome.
and changes in leadership, so though
When the winners were
the kids were committed to performing
announced, imagine my surprise
their best, they rarely placed above third or
and joy when my daughter
fourth place
received the solo award! After
As my oldest daughter entered her third
years of competing and never
year with Vocal Motion, we had hopes of
winning, she had been chosen as
our hard work paying off and improv-
the winner. My joy multiplied
ing our placement in the competitions. My second daughter was
when we learned that our choir had placed first and won the
participating in the choir too.
championship trophy! This was the
We agreed it would be great
first time in Vocal Motion’s history that
if we could win at least first runner-up! Our show was beautiful and artistic, telling the Biblical story of the Prodigal Son. Our first show in Montgomery, Alabama, went well, but we did not make
it had won a grand championship! The lesson I learned this year was simple: keep showing up and honoring God with your talent, and eventually, you will be rewarded!
the finals. Tensions were high as we entered our second competition of the season in Nashville, Tennessee. The first choir we heard perform in Nashville had
30 // May 2015
Kendra Steveson is the wife to a fantastic man and mother to five talented children. She is passionately devoted to Jesus, chocolate, and her job at the Bradley County Health Department as a breastfeeding counselor. She is a member of Cleveland Cornerstone Church and loves to read and write!
SAMI EVANSON
530.208.6446
sami.evanson@gmail.com
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Gò0dNews for Couples
"B
Putting God First by Shell Underwood
ut Ruth replied, ‘Don't urge
demand, as well as issues my team faces
to learn to talk to one another because
me to leave you or to turn
daily, it gets busy in my office to say the
neither of us had very good role models
back from you. Where you
least. Shell and I are twelve hours apart;
as kids. We have learned everything the
go I will go, and where you stay I will
my mornings is her evening, which
hard way. Here are eight tips we have
stay. Your people will be my people and
means she has much to share with me
found along the way from books and
your God my God’ ” (Ruth 1:16 NIV).
while I am getting my day moving for-
mentors and even counseling sessions.
This scripture was also my desire
ward. This is an obstacle for us that we
1. Find a way to communicate every-
until one day my husband took a job
sometimes have an issue working past.
day. Get creative if they work out of the
that was out of town and I could not go
By nature, I am a fixer. One of the harder
country or in a place where the inter-
with him. Anyone who has known An-
lessons I have had to learn is that Shell
net is hard to use. Work around your
thony and me from the beginning knows
just needs me to listen and not always
schedules and have a set time to talk so
it started pretty wild and bumpy. We are
try and fix what she is sharing with me.
that you can talk without having distrac-
both strong willed and driven individu-
“Often I think I can understand
tions. 2. Don’t always gripe about the bad
als. We have three beautiful children
how God must feel; I have to make
together, and he has two successful
decisions all day; then, when I speak
things, but when there is something that is
children from his first marriage.
with my family, I have to listen and not
bad, really listen. (You don’t have to fix it.) 3. Be Patient. Listen through the yell-
As you can imagine, the blending of
try and repair. God brought me a mate
our family has been a struggle. To make
who is strong and capable of managing
ing. Most of the time the tone of voice
matters more difficult, after three succes-
our home with me a world away. I must
either starts the argument or makes the
sive local layoffs, he called an old buddy
constantly allow Him to whisper in my
situation worse. Sometimes people just
from the Marine Corp to help him find
ear, Relax, she has this. I know; I made
need to yell. Don’t take it personally.
a job. That led to many times he was out
her.”
of town for a month at a time. Anthony said, “The Lord has
Anthony and I are not alone. According to one source 3.75 million
4. Take up a hobby together or read a book together, so that when you do talk, you can talk about that. 5. Date your spouse when you can. You
blessed me with a beautiful and strong
married couples are in a long-distance
wife; our children are healthy and smart,
relationship. Probably the hardest thing
have an advantage that most married
and professionally, I have achieved far
about his working halfway around the
couples do not. You get to miss one
more than I ever expected. God's hand
world is that we are in
another. You get a honeymoon period
has been on me all my life. Working in
two totally different time
every time he comes home. 6. Support each other over the distance.
International Oil and Gas
zones, and it’s extremely
in management means
difficult to communicate.
If he ends up dealing with everything
many things are processed
Over the past eleven and
alone, eventually he will not need you.
through me. From subsea
a half years, we have had
operations, upstream
7. Do have a social life. Facebook is not a social life. If you don’t know where to start, volunteer at your church or a community organization. 8. Put God first in your life. The closer you are to Him, the closer you will be to each other.
32 // May 2015
Shell Underwood is a lifetime educator. She taught in Murray and Whitfield County Schools for 14 years as a science and math teacher. She has just opened a new Financial Planning office with Modern Woodmen of America in Dalton and she continues to volunteer in the local city and county schools with the Readers to Leaders program.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Carriers of Good News by William Lamb
“A
nd if you give even a cup of cold water to one of
year-old kid, they were clearly the down and outers, and,
the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded” (Matt. 10:42 NLT).
in most cases, had paved their own road to desolation. My parents loved and cared for the outcast and taught their children to do the same. One particular day in 1969 proved to me that I, too, could be a carrier of good news. Being an overly energetic child, I usually had to work off some energy. So that afternoon, my mom loaded me down with a bucket of popcorn and cups in one hand and a jug of Kool-Aid in the other. Then, she opened the door and pointed up the long driveway to a man dressed in blue. He was wearing a badge and holding a gun. With my eyes glued on the bluesuited cop, I walked past the group of convicts, careful not to drop the bucket or spill the jug. After handing the drink and snack to the guard, I ran back to safety of my mom who was watching my every step. For the next few days, I remember standing on the chair peering out the window at the team of ditch-diggers. Four decades later, I still find myself peering out the window looking for the outcast, the broken, and the hurting. In the March issue of GoodNews, I asked readers to identify existing needs, to think of ways they can meet those needs, and to start the process of serving others. Go
I was five years old when my life changed forever! In 1964, I was born into the family of a Pentecostal pastor and a God-honoring Mom. I was destined to greatness, at least that is what my parents told me. “You can be anything you want to be,” still echoes in my mind when I think of my parents. They are in heaven now. Dad pastored small churches utilizing his carpentry skills to build up the church both structurally and spiritually. Then, Dad would move to another smaller congregation to “build-up” again. Watching this cycle, I witnessed my parents’ care for others. They taught their children to do the same. In most cases, the others were the “down and outers” (as Dad called them). You know the crowd; it’s the one that Jesus identifies in Matthew 25. In 1969, God’s design for my future became clear. In those days, the convicts, as they were commonly called, would do free labor as part of their restitution to society. On this particular day, the ditch along the driveway from the parsonage to the church was lined with men, young
“Four decades later, I still find myself peering out the window looking for the outcast, the broken, and the hurting.“
and old, all dressed the same. They wore white uniforms with a broad blue stripe down the pant leg and the letters CCC (Chatham County Corrections) in large, blue print across the back of their shirts. From the lens of a five-
34 // May 2015
ahead; look out the window and find your opportunity to be a carrier of good news. Dr. William Lamb is a member of the administrative staff at Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) where he leads a diverse and global “service-learning” program for college students. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. William and his wife Angela, along with their children Tyler and Megan, Nick, and Ben, reside in Cleveland, TN.
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