Gò0dNews October 2017
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Writers
Amy Scott Andrew Lee Andrew Towe Chandalee Chrisman Danny Hesterly Dave Ketelsen Dr. James White Emilee Burroughs Esmerelda Lee Jacob Chapman Jenny Godwin Kayla Stevens Kevin Gardner Madaline McFarland Mande Chapman Pam Turner Stephanie Young Steven Allen Theodore Young
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Photography
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 four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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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.
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GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk “Jesus Loves Me This I Know, for the Bible Tells Me So.” by Dave Ketelsen GoodNews for Kids In This World, But Not a Part of This World by Madaline McFarland GoodNews on Money Matters “If I Won the Lottery” by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men Bold Moves by Andrew Towe GoodNews for Women Know Who You Are in Christ by Chandalee Chrisman GoodNews for your Taste Buds Creole Gumbo by Kayla Stevens GoodNews for Parents A Box of Wheaties by Danny Hesterly GoodNews for Health & Fitness Sweeter than Sugar by Kevin Gardner GoodNews for Teens Hope for a Better Tomorrow Without Being Able to See Past Today by Jacob Chapman GoodNews for Seniors Home is Where the Heart Is by Esmerelda Lee GoodNews for Everyone Shelter by Mande Chapman GoodNews for Couples The 50/50 Rule Versus God’s Covenant/Marriage Relationship by Theodore & Stephanie Young GoodNews for Everyone An Anointed Character by Emilee Burroughs GoodNews for Singles The Scarlet “S” by Jenny Godwin GoodNews for Women’s Health Earlobe Reduction/Repair by Dr. James White GoodNews for Everyone Rebecca (Part 1) by Pam Turner GoodNews for Everyone Safe Families for Children by Amy Scott
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
Pg 22-23
Pg 18-19
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk “Jesus Loves Me This I Know, For the Bible Tells Me So.”
A
by Dave Ketelsen
great theologian was once asked what the
could barely see directly in front of me, the cloud was
greatest discovery in the Bible was. His
so thick.
simple reply was, “Jesus loves me this I
I saw him in the corner of his room laughing
know, for the Bible tells me so.” And then he sat
and shaking something as hard as he could. It was
down. What more is there to say?
then I discovered what had happened. Why all this
Listen to Ephesians 3:16-18. “I pray that out of
smoke. He had in his hands a large industrial-sized
the riches of His glory, He may strengthen you with
baby powder container. And before I arrived he had
power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that
emptied it in every drawer, in every shoe in his closet,
Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray
every toy on his shelf. He even pulled back his covers
that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have
and totally covered his bed, his rocking horse, and,
power, together with all the saints, to comprehend the
well, everything in his room, including himself.
length and width and height and depth of His love…” When I “ask Jesus to come into my heart” it is a simple way of saying, “Jesus, I invite You to enter my life” or “I allow the Lord to take control.” In fact, referring to salvation as Jesus’s “coming into your heart” might even help a
Somehow, as the dust settled, I found him now sitting on the snow white carpeted floor of which he now matched. All I could see were two big blue eyes now staring up at me. And he was singing. SINGING! Can you believe it? What was he singing – “Jesus loves me
person understand that the Spirit of Christ
this I know…” I looked down at this little
comes to indwell the soul (see John 14:17).
boy and as the dust continued to settle, he
One day, I was resting on my couch
patted the carpet right next to him for me
and after close to 15 or maybe 20 minutes I
to join him. Can you believe it? And I did.
noticed things were too quite in my house.
I sat right there beside my little boy and
So I decided to go and check on my three-year-old. As I started toward his room and down the hall I noticed smoke coming out of his room. I panicked and rushed in
sang the most wonderful words in the world. Yes, baby powder flew all around us, but I remember looking at that little three year old and how he reminded me,
thinking he had somehow gotten
his daddy, of the greatest thing
ahold of some matches, a lighter
in the world. “Jesus loves me,
or something electrical caught
this I know! For the Bible tells
on fire. However, it didn’t smell
me so.”
like smoke even though it looked like smoke. As I entered his room, I
6 // October 2017
Dave Ketelsen is lead pastor of the Hamilton Community SDA Church in Chattanooga. A different kind of church, where the un-churched love to attend. His greatest passion in life is "Getting Sinners into Heaven and Saints out of Bed."
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Gò0dNews for Kids In This World, But Not a Part of This World by Madaline McFarland
I
t is the month of October and excitement is filling the
was a day known as All Hallows Eve when Christ follow-
air. Everyone is preparing for change. We anticipate the
ers would celebrate the saints that had passed away before
beautiful colors of the autumn leaves and the ushering
them and the legacy they left behind. Also it was on Octo-
in of a string of holidays. From candy corn on the shelves
ber 31st that Martin Luther so boldly stood up against the
at the supermarket to pumpkins on the side of the road, the
false teachings of the church during his day. This fearless
change of seasons is just around the corner. Another item
act began a new freedom that began to sweep over God’s
that fills the stores this season is costumes. As a child puts
people to read and interpret scripture for themselves and to
on a costume, he or she can immediately change identities;
embrace the grace of God that comes with salvation. These
regular kid one minute, superhero the next.
would be excellent topics to explore and discuss with your
There are many debates about whether or not Christians should participate in the activities of October 31st. I have heard this day referred to as the Devil’s Day on more than one occasion. I choose not to hand anything over to the enemy and instead hold fast to the truth that everything belongs to the Lord. Psalm 118:24. This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it However your family determines to spend your time on October 31st, I encourage you to put the Lord first by being reminded of these things. How can we teach our children to be in this world but also stand apart from it? I think education is the key. Before October 31st was considered a pagan holiday celebrating ghost and ghouls, it
children this season to draw attention away from all the ghostly stories that will be told. How will you dress yourself? Whether or not you decide to participate in the candy gathering festivities, dress yourself up in a way that does not give honor to the darkness. There are many costumes to choose from, be creative. Above all there is one “costume” that we should all dress ourselves in. In fact it is not a costume at all. By putting on these garments you can actually, read supernaturally, be transformed with a new identity. Colossians 3:12 says, “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” It is of utmost importance to show the love of Christ to those who don’t know Him, not casting judgment on our differences, but by living a life filled with the light and the love of Christ. I encourage parents to empower their children with the historical truths related to this season and also to equip them with the knowledge they need to make wise choices that reflect Christ while living in a world filled with darkness. If we could only learn to live our lives dressed in these heavenly garments…Wow! What a change we could see this season. Romans 13:12-14 Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.
8 // October 2017
Madaline McFarland is a self published author, speaker and encourager to families. She has a BA in Christian counseling and 18 years of experience in children and family ministry. She and her husband David write and minister at ignitingfamilies.com and inspire families to serve the Lord with passion, purity, prayer and purpose.
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“If I Won the Lottery” MONEY MATTERS WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
lottery jackpot in late August, and doubtless many
A
as “taking money off the table.” This phrase is used by
people can’t help fantasizing about how they
casino gamblers who wisely pocket some of their winnings
Massachusetts woman recently won a $758 million
One practical suggestion would be to do what is known
would have spent such a jackpot. In a previous column, I
and refuse to bet that money again (at least on that particular
pointed out the startling statistics about how many lottery
night). This guarantees that the gambler doesn’t leave
winners are very likely to be broke within a very short
the casino completely broke, because a certain amount of
period of time. In fact, the bankruptcy rate for lottery
money has already been removed and set aside for the
winners is much higher than for the rest of us. How can
future. Applying this mindset to any financial windfall can
this be? A jackpot or other financial windfall, by the very
help to decrease the chances of blowing the entire sum in
nature of its sudden unexpectedness, creates several mental
short order. For instance, let’s pretend someone received an
and emotional dilemmas for the recipient. One is this idea
inheritance of half a million dollars from a recently deceased
that it’s “found money” and thus can and should be treated
relative; or perhaps half a million dollars from the sale of
much more recklessly than money we’ve had to work to
a property that had been in the family for years. Instead
earn. We may find ourselves thinking, “Why not blow it
of immediately blowing all of the money on a few new
all? After all, it’s not really costing me anything.” But this
cars, dream vacations, and jewelry, what if the money was
mindset almost always leads to regret later. For one thing,
put into an investment (stocks, bonds, real estate) earning
impulsively squandering a financial windfall does entail
realistically between 6-11% per year? That might generate
“opportunity cost,” that is, the opportunity to put that
fifty thousand dollars per year of income which the recipient
money to work in a different way by paying down debts or
could then use to take those vacations or to purchase a car
investing in order to grow the money. Another potentially
or other luxuries. And the best part is that the half a million
harmful mindset when faced with a financial windfall
dollars would still be there years later because the principal
is the belief that there’s so much money—more than the
amount had never been spent or even touched. One could
person has ever received before at any one time—it would
enjoy some luxury spending and still be able to pass on the
be nearly impossible to spend it all. This belief that the
windfall amount to one’s heirs or to donate toward a worthy
money will never run out can lead one to dispose of the
cause in the future. This obviously requires two traits
money immediately and thoughtlessly, whether through
that many people are sorely lacking—patience and self-
shopping sprees, ill-advised business schemes from family
discipline. But the long-term rewards of possessing these
and friends, or by making questionable loans to individuals
virtues are immeasurably greater than living only for the
or groups who are unlikely to repay the loans.
present moment. It’s important to remember Proverbs 21:20,
10 // October 2017
“The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get.”
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Gò0dNews for Men
O
Bold Moves by Andrew Towe
ne day while in prayer, I heard the Lord say, “It is time to make Bold Moves.” Suddenly, the eyes of my Spirit were opened to what He was saying. The body of Christ has been void of power and genuine authority in the spirit realm. Why aren’t we seeing today the church found in the book of Acts? The Bible tells us that signs and wonders follow the believer. We are called to lay hands on the sick and see them recover. We are to do the works of Jesus and even greater works. We don’t see this in action like we should because we are too full of self to be full of God. Paul said, in Ephesians 4:1, “Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called of God.” Men reading this article today, you have been called of God. You have a purpose. You are not on this earth to merely just exist. You are not on this earth to just work a job, watch sports, raise kids, and fulfill all of the other responsibilities of life. No, you were created to walk in your divine purpose and to fulfill God’s calling on your life. In Hebrews 11:5, Paul, speaking of Enoch, says, “… For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God…” I don’t know about you, but I want to please God. I want my wife and kids to know, I want the world to know, that I live a life that pleases God. You please God, by walking in faith.
12 // October 2017
The word “Bold” is defined, as not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger or rebuff; and as courageous and daring. The Bible is filled with ordinary men, who by faith, made “Bold Moves” and did supernatural exploits. We are called to live a life where the supernatural is natural. We are in this world, but not of this world. We are ambassadors of another Kingdom. We are God’s representatives on the earth. God has given to us the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. Keys represent authority. Keys unlock things. They give entrance to places. We have been given authority to open up new realms of glory to the earth. As men, we are to be the gatekeepers of our families. As a Pastor, I too often see men shrug off their spiritual responsibilities to their wives. The women are the ones that make sure their kids get to church. They enter into worship and are the intercessors of the family. Women fill up today’s churches, while men have regarded worship as feminine. King David was both a warrior and a worshiper. There was nothing effeminate about David. Your calling is to lead your family in the pursuit of God. My prayer for you today is that you will live a life worthy of your calling and you will begin to make “Bold Moves” for God. Andrew Towe and his wife, Brooke, together pastor Ramp Church Chattanooga. They have one daughter, Giuliana, and are currently expecting a son this fall. Even as Ezekiel was carried out by the spirit to the valley of dry bones, Pastor Andrew has been called to speak the prophetic message of awakening to the Tennessee Valley, raising up an army of believers from the dry scattered bones and equipping them to advance the kingdom of God.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Know Who You Are in Christ
H
by Chandalee Chrisman
ave you ever felt like nothing was right in your
(both from myself and others), as the depression pushed me
world? Or maybe, you’ve felt as if the air had been
to a deeper level of loneliness, as the sickness left me weak, I
sucked from your lungs by circumstances out of your
realized I had been holding something back from God.
control, and you couldn't breathe? We all know living under
Through studying Paul this past year, I began to see I
strain is unhealthy, unsustainable, and takes a toll on you
was focusing on who I say I am and not on who Christ says I
physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. “Rejoice
am. I focused on "fixing" things: my health, my mental status,
always,” is the Christian answer, but how in the world do we
and my emotions. In reading of Paul’s endurance through
do that in the midst of feeling we can’t breathe?
much persecution and suffering in being beaten, stoned,
About a year ago, after I said “yes” to God’s leading to be
shipwrecked, bitten by a viper, imprisoned, and more, I saw
a part of several mission opportunities, I felt like the bottom
he continued to rejoice or be joyful. How?
fell out of my life. While I didn’t lose someone and I wasn’t
Paul knew who he was in Christ.
asked to relocate to the other side of the world, He challenged
• Chosen (Ephesians 1:4)
me to completely trust Him with everything, to have faith he
• Not a slave, but a child (Romans 6:6; Galatians 4:7, 5:1)
would provide funds, open doors, and sustain me.
• Forgiven and redeemed (Romans 3:24; Ephesians 1:7)
As the year has progressed, instead of flowers and rainbows, I have endured a hard year. Through battling a 20+ year chronic disease and drastic lifestyle alterations to treat
• Wise, righteous, holy (1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 4:24) • Filled [with the Holy Spirit and peace] (1 Corinthians
and manage it, I thought I was ready for the challenges. Ha!
6:17; Philippians 4:7)
For weeks after the God-ordained trips, I suffered physically
• Blessed (Ephesians 1:3)
from different ailments. Mentally, I was taxed and lethargic.
• Provided for (Philippians 4:19)
Emotionally, I was on edge, disconnected, even depressed.
• Complete (Colossians 2:10)
Spiritually, I felt abandoned and dry. I understood the
Rejoicing is more than verbally saying I am happy. It is
physical, mental, and emotional responses; my 40-something-
my internal attitude that reflects my understanding that who
year old self was keeping a pace I wasn't used to. The spiritual
I am in Christ determines my joy. It is what I was holding
fallout, though, knocked the wind from my sails. I’ve spent
back. When I am weary beyond what I can manage, I must
the better part of my adulthood in ministry. This year was no
remember who God is and who I am in Him.
different. I was serving and giving but ultimately, ended up suffering more. What in the world? I felt I had followed God and held nothing back. However, as the criticisms piled up
14 // October 2017
Chandalee Chrisman and her husband Keith have been married 11 years. Chandalee has homeschooled for 9 years, and recently completed her master's in Christian Studies. She is the women's director and communications coordinator at Stuart Heights Baptist Church.
Eugene Pike, President • Stephen Pike, Vice President
84 Years of Service 1933-2017
Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
F
Creole Gumbo by Kayla Stevens
ew things speak louder to my southern heart than the
Add to taste: Liquid crab boil to taste, cayenne pepper
warm and spicy aroma of Cajun food on brisk evenings
and Old Bay Seasoning (approximately 1 tablespoon of each)
in the fall. One of the joys of my childhood, besides step-
If you do not like it spicy do not add this much.
ping on crawfish mounds in the front yard, was learning from my mom how to make a big pot of Cajun gumbo. Growing up in the heart of Creole country taught me so much about the importance of culture, hospitality, and never rubbing your eyes after eating spicy crawfish! Cajun gumbo is often a dish I crave during the cooler months of fall. But, even more so, it is a dish that reminds me of the importance of community and the gift and sacrifice of genuine hospitality. Hospitality came often to my home in the Deep South. I can remember countless nights where meals for our small family of 4 often turned into 5 or 7 or even more. No one in need of a meal or comfort, or conversation was ever denied a seat at the table. My mom taught me a lot about the joys of cooking for others, of the satisfaction that came from loving others well by filling stomachs and hearts. More than teaching me how to cook a savory gumbo, she has taught me the importance of opening your home, no matter how messy the kids, toys, or how much dog hair may be on the floor. My mom practiced hospitality openly and often, with grace and humility and openness to others. Whether there was enough food to go around on gumbo nights, or it was a PB&J kind of night, somehow, there was always enough for just one more at the table. I hope this big pot of gumbo finds its way to your kitchen, to fill your senses with Southern comfort as it does mine and to remind you of the blessings of community and loving others. Whether it is a big pot of gumbo or PB&J, there is always room for one more at the table.
Creole Gumbo 1 whole chicken
2 large onions, diced 1-2 Bell Peppers, diced 1 bunch of celery, diced 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 qt. can chopped tomatoes 3-4 bay leaves Salt and pepper to taste ¼ c Louisiana Hot Sauce 1 c. flour 1 c. vegetable oil 1 lb. smoked sausage or Cajun sausage 2 lbs. okra (fresh or frozen) ½ in slices
16 // October 2017
Directions
Add chicken, water, and salt to a large pot. Boil chicken
until tender. When cool, debone, chop, and set aside chicken and broth separately. Add canned chicken broth or water, if necessary, to cooked broth to make at least 4 quarts of liquid. Cut sausage into ½ inch slices and brown in a large heavy skillet. Set sausage aside with reserved chopped chicken. Lightly cook okra in sausage drippings in the same skillet until okra is lightly crispy. Add okra to reserved meat. Drain grease. In the same large heavy skillet, make a dark roux by adding 1 c. vegetable oil and adding 1 c. of flour slowly and stirring continuously on a medium heat until your roux is a dark brown gravy color without burning. This may take up to 30 minutes. When the roux is dark brown, in the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, celery, green onions, and garlic and sauté until tender. In the large pot with broth, add chopped chicken, smoked sausage, okra, sautéed vegetables cooked into the roux, and tomatoes. Stir in well. Add pepper, cayenne, old bay seasoning, and bay leaves to taste. Check for saltiness before adding additional salt. The mixture should look like vegetable soup. Simmer on low heat for 45 minutes until thick, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste and simmer another 20 minutes. Add water or more chicken broth as needed. Remove bay leaves. Stir occasionally. Do not allow Gumbo to stick. Serve over rice and garnish with parsley or fresh chives. Invite friends and neighbors and enjoy!
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Chattanooga Church Directory Anglican
Anglican Church of the Redeemer 423.892.1101 104 McBrien Rd, 37411
Assembly of God
Calvary Church 423.629.1200 1212 South Seminole Drive, 37412 Fresh Fire Awakening 423.255.3103 Chattanooga, 37421
Baptist Bayside Baptist Church 423-344-8327 6100 Hwy 58 Harrison, TN 37416 Covenant Baptist Church 423.892.5542 1640 N. Joiner Rd, 37421 Duncan Park Baptist Church 706.899.3707 1609 Glowmont Dr, 37412 New Haven Baptist Church 423.855.4910 1058 Graysville Rd, 37421 Middle Cross Baptist Church 423.877.5742 4009 Norcross Rd, 37343 Heritage Baptist Church 423.499.5060 2934 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Ridgeview Baptist Church 423.899.1530 6 Moore Rd, 37411 Spring Creek Road Baptist 423.894.0700 1312 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 Alpine Baptist Church 423.875.3522 4720 Stagg Rd, 37415 Ashland Terrace Baptist Church 423.877.4392 906 Ashland Terrace, 37415 Avondale Baptist Church 423.344.2208 5479 Hwy 58, 37416 Bartle Baugh Baptist Church 423.344.5207 6129 Champion Rd, 37416 Berean Baptist Church 423.629.1634 1614 Kirby Ave, 37404 Bethel Baptist Church 423.875.9107 632 Lullwater Rd, 37405 Bethlehem Baptist Church 423.266.5484 101 Lawn St, 37405 Bible Way Baptist Church 423.624.2149 2003 Elmendorf St, 37406
18 // October 2017
Brainerd Baptist Church 423.624.2606 300 Brookfield Ave, 37411 Brainerd Hills Baptist Church 423.892.6645 6611 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Calvary Baptist Church 423.875.8154 5201 Dayton Blvd, 37415 Central Baptist Church 423.624.4678 901 Woodmore Ln, 37411 Charity Baptist Church 423.267.6576 2340 Rossville Blvd, 37408 Clifton Hill Baptist Church 423.867.4887 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Concord Baptist Church 423.892.9313 7025 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Brainerd Baptist Church 423.892.4235 1047 Graysville Rd, 37421 East Lake Baptist Church 423.698.1597 3315 12th Ave, 37407 East Ridge Baptist Church 423.698.2421 4201 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Edgewood Baptist Church 423.629.5821 3604 Ringgold Road, 37412 Empowerment Church 423.355.5576 1203 Blocker Lane, 37412 Faith Baptist Church 423.344.9712 8834 North Hickory Valley, 37416 Fellowship Baptist Church 423.894.8080 5335 Clemons Rd, 37412 First Baptist Church 423.265.2257 401 Gateway Ave, 37402 First Baptist Church 423.629.1950 1228 Latta St, 37406 First Baptist Church 423.265.3229 506 East 8th St., 37403 First Calvary Baptist Church 423.267.5159 300 Bell Ave, 37405 Grace Baptist Church 423.892.4869 7815 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Greater Beulah Baptist Church 423.624.0418 1301 Commerce St, 37404 Harmony Baptist Church 423.629.9660 3832 Youngstown Rd, 37406 Hickory Valley Baptist Church
423.892.1916 2320 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of the Highlands 423.493.4111 6621 Hunter Road, Harrison, TN 37341 Hillcrest Baptist Church 423.867.2812 3300 East 42nd St, 37407 Independent Baptist Church 423.875.3054 2624 Lyndon Ave, 37412 International Baptist Church 423.624.8638 1512 Old Ringgold Rd, 37404 Kings Point Baptist Church 423.624.5202 2834 Harrison Pike, 37403 Kingwood Baptist Church 423.624.7301 3522 Ringgold Rd, 37412 LifeSpring Baptist Church 423.892.8469 1701 Hickory Valley Road, 3742 New Hope Missionary Baptist 423.697.7000 3777 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Lookout Valley Baptist Church 423.825.5335 23 Lilac Ave, 37419 Macedonia Baptist Church 423.267.6915 1156 East Main St, 374081 Mission Ridge Baptist Church 423.624.0424 302 Shallowford Rd, 37411 Morris Hill Baptist Church 423.892.2071 1804 Morris Hill Rd, 37421 Mount Paran Baptist Church 423.629.2377 1319 Moss Dr, 37411 New Grace Baptist Church 423.899.5510 7861 Lee Hwy, 37421 Orchard Knob Baptist Church 423.629.6115 1734 East 3rd St, 37404 Philadelphia Baptist Church 423.629.5786 2230 East 18th St, 37404 Pilgrim Rock Baptist Church 423.894.7548 1726 Church Rd, 37421 Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 423.892.0237 1441 Crawford Rd, 37421 Prospect Baptist Church 423.698.4149 734 Dodson Ave, 37404 Resurrected Reformed Baptist 423.698.8086 2230 East 18th Street, 37404 Ridgedale Baptist Church
423.499.0994 1831 Hickory Valley Road, 37421 Rose of Sharon Baptist Church 423.629.9534 2001 Blackford St, 37404 Second Baptist Church 423.629.6039 1619 East Main St, 37404 Shiloh Baptist Church 423.267.3131 1708 Carr St, 37408 Silverdale Baptist Church 423.892.2173 7236 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37421 Standifer Gap Baptist Church 423.892.8596 8159 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 Stanley Heights Baptist Church 423.867.8060 1512 Mcbrien Rd, 37412 Temple Baptist Church 423.622.1913 3200 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Terra Vista Baptist Church 423.892.3879 4412 Oakwood Dr, 37416 Tucker Baptist Church 423.510.9684 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Washington Park Baptist 423.899.9408 1823 Shepherd Rd, 37421 Westview Baptist Church 423.899.0127 9516 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Woodland Park Baptist Church 423.899.9185 6735 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421
Catholic Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church 423.266.1618 214 East 8th St, 37402
Church of God East Lake Church of God 423.698.6522 2949 East 29th St, 37407 Brainerd Hills Church of God 423.892.2092 410 Friar Rd, 37421 City Church of Chattanooga 423.894.6982 7122 Lee Hwy, 37421 Church of God of Prophecy 423.899.4074 3927 Webb Rd, 37416 Church of God of Prophecy 423.894.0597 2201 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of God of the Union Assembly 706.313.3489 1014 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 Church of God Seventh Day
423.899.5490 7504 Old Lee Hwy, 37421 East Brainerd Church of God 423.899.4755 8312 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 The Crossing Church 423.867.7287 7501 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 East Side Church of God 423.624.8797 2105 Citico Ave, 37404 Fellowship Church of God 423.867.3194 3426 Clio Ave, 37407 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Omega Harvest Church 423.875.0033 4904 Dayton Blvd, 37415 Pure Holiness Church of God 423.622.4667 420 North Holly St, 37404 Redemption Point 423-855-7321 3831 Ooltewah-Ringgold Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Temple of Faith Church of God 423.698.2700 2139 East 27th 37407 United Temple Church of God 423.624.1037 2418 Dodson Ave, 37406 Vision Church of God 423.624.7170 4901 Midland Pike, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407
Community Church Cosmopolitan Community Church 423.622.3217 3031 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Friendship Community Church 423.698.3471 7 North Tuxedo Dr, 37411 Metropolitan Community Church 423.629.2737 1601 Foust St, 37404
Lutheran
Ascension Lutheran Church 423.698.5047 720 South Germantown Rd, 37412 First Lutheran Church 423.629.5990 2800 McCallie Avenue, 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran 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 423.490.7039 4626 St Elmo Avenue, 37409 Lake Vista UMC 423.892.4941 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Saint Mary CME Church 423.622.2742 1417 Wheeler Ave, 37406 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.855.2004 515 Airport Rd, 37421 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.698.4114 400 Glenwood Dr, 37404 Tyner UMC 423.892-0444 6805 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421
Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.864.8828 5821 Ringgold Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.893.7756 5455 North Terrace, 37411 Lookout Valley Church of the Nazarene
423.821.2332 136 S. Aster Avenue, 37419
Non-Denominational Christian Family Church 423.774.8888 88 Hunt Drive Rossville, GA 30741 The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Free To Worship Revival Center 423.650.9172 9966 Lovell Rd. Soddy Daisy, TN 37379 Metropolitan Tabernacle 423.894.3377 2101 West Shepherd Rd, 37422 Carpenters Cowboy Church 423.867.4232 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Brainerd Hills Chapel Church 423.899.3098 5931 Pinegrove Tr, 37421 Chattanooga Church 423.892.2888 6188 Adamson Circle, 37416 Christian Church of Hope 423.855.0767 2330 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of Jesus 423.629.5051 2118 Wilson St, 37406 Church of the First Born 423.756.0704 3418 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Church of the Lord Jesus 423.265.8235 200 West 19th St, 37408 Mount Summit of Peace Church 423.899.0434 6925 Shallowford Rd, 37421 New Covenant Church 423.867.2121 3700 Clio Ave, 37407 New Covenant Fellowship Church 423.899.8001 1326 North Moore Road, 37411 The Net Church Carmike East Ridge 18 5080 South Terrace, 37412 Ramp Church Chattanooga 423.531.7267 3975 TN-2, 37411 Walker Avenue First Church 423.622.2982 2101 Walker St, 37404 Worlds Church of the Living God 423.622.2992 2110 Glass St, 37406
Pentecostal Emanuel Pentecostal Church 423.821.5261 4204 Ohls Ave, 37410
Redemption To The Nations 423.591.7886 1908 Bailey Ave, 37404 Sharon Pentecostal Church 423.867.7088 1400 East 48th St, 37407 Virtuous Church 423.521.4440 5952 Brainerd Road, 37412 Word of Pentecost Church 423.624.2620 1722 Newton St, 37406
Presbyterian First Cumberland Presbyterian 423.698.2556 1505 North Moore Rd, 37411 Central Presbyterian Church 423.629.1401 1815 McCallie Ave, 37404 Covenant Presbyterian Church 423.899.5377 8451 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Presbyterian Church 423.867.2717 4919 Court Dr, 37412 First Presbyterian Church 423.267.1206 554 McCallie Ave, 37402 New Hope Presbyterian Church 423.892.0853 7301 Shallowford Rd, 37421 North Minster Presbyterian 423.894.3773 4791 Hal Dr, 37416 St Elmo Presbyterian Church 423.821.1424 4400 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Second Presbyterian Church 423.266.2828 700 Pine St, 37402 Valleybrook Presbyterian Church 6001 Hixson Pike, 37343
Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302
Seventh-Day Collegedale Community 9503 Four Corners Place Collegedale, TN 37363 Hamilton County Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421 Orchard Park SDA Church 423.698.0707 951 N. Orchard Knob Ave, 37404
Wesleyan Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
A Box of Wheaties
G
by Danny Hesterly
rowing up, my dad would tell me that Wheaties
to raise spiritual champions if your own relationship
are the “breakfast of champions!” I do admit, it
with God isn’t growing.
kept me regular and for a time it got me to eat
Here are a few things I do every day that builds
breakfast each morning. I also learned that adding bananas
consistency and helps me be intentional in raising spiritual
didn’t make it taste any better. But looking back at those
champions. It’s nothing fancy or super spiritual. I find
moments, I think my dad was really saying, “Son, how you
doing these things in the morning helps my family start
start your day matters.” Now that I have children of my
the day off right. There are many things you could do…but
own I’ve taken that “Wheaties”
these work for me.
approach and applied that to
1. I give my son and daughter a
how my wife and I parent our
hug, a “good morning, family”
son and daughter. We have
shout out, or a fist bump every
made a commitment to raise
morning. I want them to know
spiritual champions. It’s not
that I look forward to seeing
going to happen automatically.
them when they wake up.
Intentionality and consistency
2. I thank God for my children
are major parenting keys. Let’s
out loud and want them to hear
look at this passage found in
me most of the time. It could
Deuteronomy 6.
be as simple as me brushing
Deuteronomy 6: 4-7 says,
my daughter’s hair and saying,
“Listen, O Israel! The Lord is
“I’m so glad God made me your
our God, the Lord alone. And
dad.” Or we could be driving to
you must love the Lord your
school and I might say, “God,
God with all your heart, all your
you’re awesome! Thanks for
soul, and all your strength. And
my kids.” They need to hear
you must commit yourselves
me acknowledge God for his
wholeheartedly to these
blessings…that each of them is a
commands that I am giving you
blessing to me and my wife.
today. Repeat them again and
3. I pray with my children every
again to your children. Talk
day. I say, “God keep my kids
about them when you are at
from sickness and injury. Help
home and when you are on the road, when you are going to
them to make wise choices and comprehend all
bed and when you are getting up (emphasis added).”
they learn today. Give them opportunities to be
I don’t know how clearer this can be. As parents, our first responsibility is to take care of our own
compassionate and be great leaders.” My dad is going to laugh when he reads this. Who
relationship with God. We’re to love God with all we
knew that a box of Wheaties would spark something like this
have. Then we’re to teach, pass down, show, and model
in my life? Enjoy the challenge of raising spiritual champs.
that in front of our children. It’s like when you’re
Be intentional and consistent. Happy parenting.
flying and the flight attendant tells you in case of an emergency to put your oxygen mask on first before you help those around you. Same thing here; it’s impossible
20 // October 2017
Danny Hesterly is the family ministries pastor at City Church Chattanooga. He’s been married to his lovely bride, Erin for 13 years and has two wonderful kiddos, Micah-8 and Ava-6.
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FEATURED COVER STORY
D
A Song of Hope by Steven T. Allen
avid Phelps is an award-winning musician, singer
“He began calling his friends and saying, ‘Hey, I’ve got this
and songwriter. With a spectacular vocal range that
guy who is showing real promise. Why don’t you have him
extends more than three octaves, Phelps can still
come sing at your church?’ And so I would go do that, and
remember the moment it finally all came together for him: “I
when I was there, I’d ask them, ‘Do you know anybody who
remember the first time I was standing behind Bill [Gaither]
you’d recommend me going to sing at their church, too?’”
in the [Gaither Vocal Band]. As he began, ‘There’s a line that is
As Phelps went from church to church, his network grew.
drawn through the ages…’ I knew I’d finally made it.”
“I just began locally in my area,” said Phelps, “and it just
“It” was a musical dream – a calling – Phelps first felt as a ninth grader in his hometown of Tomball, Texas, near Houston. “I sang a solo for my little town in Texas,” said Phelps,
started circling out, you know, like when you throw a stone in a pond.” A self-described computer nerd, Phelps started building a
“and it was like, ‘Wow.’ I could do this. I have talent at this.
database of his early contacts. Thirty years later, that database
… I remember getting in the car that night with my dad and
is still being used today, the cornerstone of a music career that
saying, ‘This is what I want to do for the rest of my life.’”
has taken him around the world and put him onstage with
Phelps took voice lessons in high school to prepare for the musical career he envisioned for himself, and he started looking for opportunities to sing, usually at church. “My minister of music became my advocate,” said Phelps.
22 // October 2017
some of gospel’s most beloved singers. It could easily have gone in a different direction. As a vocal performance major at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, Phelps was encouraged to test the world of secular music.
“I had several teachers who felt that I should be singing
When he’s touring, Phelps also travels with a band that
opera or performing somewhere on Broadway,” said Phelps.
feels like family. Most of them have been with him for more
“Particularly, I had a teacher who kept pushing me strongly
than 10 years – some of them close to 20 years.
toward classical music, but when she finally accepted that Christian music was what God was calling me to do, that became the turning point for me.” After graduating from Baylor in 1992, Phelps doggedly
Physically, Phelps has learned to protect his voice and recognize that he’s not as young as he used to be. “The two key ingredients to staying vocally in shape are enough rest and a lot of water,” said Phelps. “You’ve got to
pursued his passion until his big break in 1997, when he was
keep yourself hydrated. And, as far as rest goes, when you’re
asked to join the Gaither Vocal Band. Since its inception in
younger, you’re more resilient. You can get by with some bad
1981, GVB has included a who’s who of popular Christian
habits, but as time goes on… there’s only so much your body
artists, including Steve Green, Larnelle Harris, Russ Taff,
can do.”
Michael English, Mark Lowry and Cleveland, Tennessee’s, own Anthony Burger. Being part of the group was the perfect catalyst for Phelps’
Phelps also warms up throughout the day before a concert: “I try not to wait until too close to the concert because it’s best if you can get warmed up throughout the day, doing
career. Not only was he able to perform in the best venues and
some exercises here and there. And when I’m out on the road
record acclaimed music, he was able to meet and share the
touring, I just don’t talk a lot during the day.”
stage with some of gospel’s most revered performers. And, he got to learn from one of the best in the business – Bill Gaither. “Bill is my teacher, mentor, friend and welcome critic,” said Phelps. As Phelps’ career evolved, he served two stints with GVB: 1997 – 2005 and again from 2009 – 2017. He left the group for the second time earlier this year, to focus on his solo career
Spiritually, Phelps simply tries to stay focused on why he’s doing what he does. “There was a time when I wondered what was next and tried to remember why we started doing this in the first place,” said Phelps. “And I had this moment when I thought, ‘You know what? My goal is to give people hope.’” As Phelps continues to follow the dream God gave him as
and other business ventures, including the fan-favorite barn
a ninth grader, the roadmap may not always be clear, but the
bashes he hosts several times a year on his family’s farm
destination will never change. It’s hope.
outside of Nashville. Although Phelps is serious about his ministry, he never takes himself too seriously. “I always say that my job is to be a thorn in Bill [Gaither’s]
“As much as I love music and am thrilled by the art, I get no bigger rush than standing on the stage and giving people hope,” said Phelps. “Sometimes that’s in the form of a beautiful piece of art music and sometimes it’s lyrics that are right on
side,” said Phelps. “I give him a hard time, and he doesn’t
the nose… It is such a rush to look out at the audience and
usually figure it out until we’re well into the joke.”
see faces that are like, ‘I get it. Tomorrow, this is going to help
Humor is vital with Phelps’ grueling travel and
me.’ To me, it is such a blessing that God has let me experience
performance schedule, but it is also important for him to take
seeing that in this life. Even after all of the years of doing it, I
care of himself mentally, physically and spiritually.
choose not to take that for granted.”
Mentally, he stays prepared by surrounding himself with family and close friends. Phelps met his wife, Lisa, at Baylor. In addition to sharing the same birthday – Oct. 21, 1969 – they share a passion for ministry. “My wife and I have been doing this together from the beginning,” said Phelps. “She helps me make all of my decisions, and all of the big decisions are team decisions.” The couple has four children: Callie, Maggie Beth, David Grant and Coby – all of whom have appeared on several of his videos.
DAVID PHELPS
will be in concert at Collegedale Community Church on Saturday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. For more information about his music, barn bashes and upcoming tour dates, visit DavidPhelps.com. Steven Allen is Minister of Music and Media at Westmore Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee where he has served since April 2001. Steven earned his Bachelors degree in Church Music from Lee University in 1992. Steven has been married to Laura Roman Allen since 1991. They have three sons Chandler, Zachary and Nicholas attending Lee University.
issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 23
Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Sweeter than Sugar
W
by Kevin Gardner
e all know we’re not
response to eating lots of sugar. These
white sugar. Of course these too
supposed to eat too many
neurotransmitters make you feel
should be used in moderation as well,
sweets. Long before any
good and that’s another factor that
or else we will find ourselves with the
lab had studied the effects of high
contributes to our love of sweet stuff.
same kinds of health problems that
fructose corn syrup the Bible told
By eating healthy foods that
come from eating too much sugar.
us that “it is not good to eat much
help your brain to produce these
Maybe that’s why the wise man said
honey” (Prov 25:27). Modern studies
neurotransmitters you can get the
so long ago, “it is not good to eat too
in nutrition and disease have tested
positive feelings associated with
much honey” (Prov 25:27).
the validity of those words and founds
sugar without its corresponding
them to be scientifically true. But what
damage. Vitamin C, niacin, and zinc
about those of us who have a sweet
help your body to produce serotonin,
tooth? Are we doomed to increase
giving the body that nice feeling
our risk for weight gain, diabetes,
without harmful side-effects. Fiber,
heart disease, obesity and all the other
on the other hand, tends to stabilize
problems associated with eating too
the blood sugar, allowing you to feel
much sugar? Is there a way to control
full for longer without wanting a
the urge for sweets without taking the
snack. Of course, it is always
sweetness and happiness out of life?
best to eat a wide variety of
Develop New Mental Associations
whole foods, but foods
associations early on between food
especially helpful.
and feeling. Most of us can recall
Healthy Sweeteners
The human brain makes
baking cookies with mom, eating
containing the things mentioned here may be
While consuming
apple pie for the fourth of July or
large amounts of sugar
some other fond memory of people we
does increase your
love and special treats. The feelings
risk of developing
we had during these wonderful times
health problems,
are subconsciously associated with
healthy treats, eaten
the foods we ate while we were there.
sparingly, are a
Thus emotional memories are one
simple delight
major reason why we enjoy dainties
that we can
so much.
enjoy every
Feed Your Brain
now and then.
is because of what it does to our brains.
molasses, stevia,
It turns out that that the brain releases
evaporated cane
two neurotransmitters called serotonin
juice, and fruit juices are all
and beta-endorphin as an indirect
healthier alternatives to regular
Another reason why we love sugar
24 // October 2017
Honey, agave,
Kevin Gardner works for Health Made Simple, a lifestyle club that hosts programs like cooking classes, dinner with the doctor, and natural remedies programs. He enjoys cooking, playing his violin, studying the Bible, and spending time with his beloved girlfriend, Aryn.
Church Activities & Events Grace Episcopal Church
An Evening With Rachel Held Evans Saturday, October 21st: 7PM - 9PM 20 Belvoir Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37411
Wayside Presbyterian Church
Reformation Heritage Conference
Friday, October 20th - Sunday, October 22nd 2502 Fairmount Pike, Signal Mountain, TN 37377
Redemption To The Nations Church Ruach Conference 2017
1908 Bailey Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404 Monday, October 23rd - Wednesday, October 25th
St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church
Candlelight Memorial Service for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Sunday, October 15th: 5:30PM - 8:00PM 4300 Locksley Lane, Chattanooga, TN 37416
Ramp Church Fall Ramp
October 27TH - 28TH 3975 Brainerd Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37411 Call for more info. (423) 531-7267
Gò0dNews for Teens
Hope for a Better Tomorrow Without Being Able to See Past Today
H
by Jacob Chapman
ope. It is a word that literally means, “grounds for believing something good may happen.” Hope isn’t something that you learn or even work for. It is something that you watch take place. It is where you see God move a mountain and believe he will do it again even when you’re in the darkest valley. The same God who saved Moses and the Israelites from the Egyptian army by splitting the Red Sea, is the same God who will open a door you may be waiting on or even bring a family member to church one Sunday and allow them to be saved. Our God has never and will never change. He has never faded; he may seem distant, but it is only because you distanced yourself from him. God wants our full trust. One thing many people struggle with is knowing if God is present because nothing miraculous has happened to them. A miracle does not have to occur to know God is present. God has never turned his back on you; maybe it is just the fact that you haven’t been as hopeful that God will actually change your situation. The valley you’re in may last five hours or five years; whatever time range it may be, understand that it is under God’s planning and if he wants a barrier to be broken, he will never leave it standing. If he wants a sea parted, he will not leave it as one. God always does what is best for you and me.
26 // October 2017
I have a big passion to change this world. The world isn’t corrupt yet, but it is making its way there. I have hope that if this generation of leaders does not change what is wrong with this world, the next one will. Why do I believe something as big as that could happen? I believe it because I have heard stories of dead men being raised and given new life in Christ. The God that did miracles in the past is the same God that is performing miracles in the present and will perform miracles in the future. In Isaiah 54:17 it says this, “But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord; their vindication will come from me. I, the Lord, have spoken!” If this is the Lord’s promise to us why should we not believe it? If this is the living, breathing word of God that says this to us, why should we not believe it? God has taken every one of your imperfections and made them perfect. Any obstacle Satan may try to throw your way, God will turn into an incredible victory. All you have to do is have hope. Seeing is not always believing. “Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders.” —“Oceans,” Hillsong Worship Jacob Chapman is a 14-year- old student in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He enjoys basketball, music, and inspiring others. He is a devoted Christian and is ready for the next generation to step up and take on the challenges in front of them.
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Gò0dNews for Seniors
Home is Where the Heart Is by Esmerelda Lee
D
Gò0dNews for Seniors Gò0dNews for Seniors our country have been affected by Hurricane South Carolina, I realized that the real heroes, the uring the month of September, many people in
As we loaded buses in Florida and in Charleston,
Seventy Years Strong Intergenerational Intersection Strength in Being Alone
Harvey and Tropical Storm Irma. I have seen
the pictures, listened to the news, but nothing affected
soldiers in any crises that affect seniors, are their
caregivers. These truly genuine people leave their own
bywith Esmerelda Lee Staying involved their church, their work in through the community, me more than actually experiencing first-hand. The families (some bring them along if seniors. allowed), and come Being alone is aitchoice, and I want to share what I have learned and their family has kept this couple’s love strong! news depicted stories of seniors in nursing homes by Esmerelda to care for Leetheir patients wherever they land. I was truly uring the month of May, our oldest son Based on demographics alone, it behooves us as by million. Esmerelda Lee wading in two feetince ofgraduated water, as well as images of moved when I met Angie, a caregiver grabbed from high school. parents, a nation to find way communicate. Gilbert Highet I have begun my new job, IMy have been who hand andaoffer atofirm handshake to that someone you her
D SI
enjoy an inspiring old love stories. Favorites like
adhere to a strong work ethic. Mitchell attributes his
hadAn notAffair visitedtoin five years, made special “Wherever thereto areride beginners and experts, and seniors who passedtraveling away because of generator failure. twosaid, young children with seniors onold a long bushe weekly. Most of my time isaspent recently encountered a restaurant. Remember, Love is a Many Splendid sons’ successes tointheir mother. He did say that trip to meeting see their oldest grandchild graduate, and enjoyed there isBetty some kind of learning going on, some kind“some new people, andmove even though I am Being alone is an opportunity to try new things. Thing, and others menatural more than some and believed in children giving their children There have been many tragic losses from these rideyoung, to•Atlanta. Angie and her were willing to
of the modern-day love stories on the Hallmarkof teaching. good that helped every minute ofsenior the pomp andeach circumstance that goes We lickings,” are all an pupils and we who aretoo. allbegan teachers.” still working in living, week is completely Recently, I met older lady line
disasters. However, IChannel. have seen far is more positive face as long as they werepeople present to on care There something to be said about thethe unknown, In a world where so many focus their along with anfilled American high school graduation. different and with opportunity. What I haveAs they
Interacting older adults enables youth to dancing. with She had never danced while married
purity and innocence of the courtship and love own happiness and make life-altering decisions actions, and discovered, for others. rose to the singing of the American anthem, and develop social skills, problem however, is that aold lot movies. ofnational my time is spent morenetworks, than fiftycommunication years, but Inow that she depicted through I am also honored to for based on these motives, asked Betty and Mitchell
grateful
seniors who
applauded when every graduate walked across the stage, solving abilities, positive attitudes toward and alone. Whether I am traveling, a hotel out room having found herself alone, rather than sit aging, inthe her home Isixty-nine witnessed see these love storiesinplayed inor real life through if they were happy throughout years
older adults. that fell in love and marriage. “We lost, always it I saw tears intimes, their eyes. In South Africa, aexperience student’s final a senseand ofof community service, according to Generations meals, most I am Couples alone. This new hasstayed mope over years she worked decided toout, try and if we love through a world war, the Depression, life day of high isand the day caused meintoschool pause
strong,
didn’t laugh at eachsomething other, found someone or Unitedwe (2002). Older totally new. challenges, raising and burying loved ones are something to laugh about. You’ll have problems in were thankfulthink courageous whenabout he or she takes thewe last adults benefit from the seniors Never foralso a moment couples that loved for life. marriage, but who doesn’t? You just have to talk it for people that people exam,daily, walksand around saying the positive mindset, serve the and fact a spectator discernlike Betty Mitchell Lyle are a local Cleveland out,” Mitch replied.could goodbye to one’s teachers, vibrant attitudes, that When I asked ifAngie they ever fought, must feel themet in the first grade at that this beautiful cared enoughthat manycouple who Arnold theyseventy-eight-year-old looked puzzled. and then finally Memorial finished. School. For Mitchell it and vitality of a “Who doesn’t same way.is to assist them hugged, wasalove at first sight. Betty believes that fight? We are both so different, and graduation younger generation. IBetween have thought many lady had lost a daughter the grinning first-grader grew on her we like different things. When we in evacuatingtimes embraced, party,of and helping with Studies show that the ones who and a husband, because over time. According to Mitchell, they fought, the one with the strongest houselost chores that needed youth involved in life awere spouse. I can’t on each other but did not exuded so much “sweet” and escapinghave laughed with caseshe won.” Mitchell also added, get serious until after World War II. “Weand compromised, but Betty made to be done fordifficult years, it intergenerational imagine how love. tragedy. In and Icared for Mitchell enlisted in the Navy in 1943 the most compromises. am my parents spent most mentoring arestill must be suddenly learning • Being aloneprograms is an and stayed out to sea for most of that surprised that she chose me.”In Orlando, as of their time their senior with their 46% less likely to begin to sleep bytime. yourself opportunity to rely on she said, He and remembers a year and half Betty’s much softer voice, I helped Corbin Smithgoing pack his belongings in a brown “family members” and created aishome outside of their grandchildren. using illegal drugs, not hearing thatEvery warm Christ. For seventeen by before his feet even touched “If there something to 27% fight about, dry land. But each week when mail there is something worth evening was found with less likely to begin using voice of greeting each morning. Some older adults years I had become accustomed to constant love, paper bag, I noticed his Purple Heart proudly displayed normal environment. I realized that in watchingsaving.” love was delivered to hismany aircraft carrier, August 22, 2016, Betty and in-depth conversations about alcohol, and 52% less experience being alone because of their families attention and sounds ofOn seniors and associates in a walnut wood frame. I complemented him his depicted in such a selfless way, there is much good and Betty’s unrelenting letters andon her faith Mitchell Lyle will celebrate their life, love and lots of humor. skip school, or friends may have moved. I have considered how always around me. When likely we aretoalways with that he would return home kept their love strong. seventieth wedding anniversary. Today, these service, and he “Honey, if I survived World beauty in the world. I also realized thatto although people Myresponded, daddyit made sure according Independent daunting must Mitchell be tothat walkand into a restaurant or dining we often lose sight of God’s When Betty were finally reunited people, lifelong Cleveland residents livepresence. at Garden Plaza at he shared stories, spiritual Sector (2007). after the war, they dated eighthe short months Cleveland Senior Living. Their apartment little War II, you know I am going to survive this.”for Then love their home, their fear favorite arm chair, andhas their room and know no one. When youlove constantly displeasing people, they were After graduating college, people awards theyyour wonprimary from serving in their vocations lessons hebefore has learned in to married. My parents were Loneliness is difficult experience at any age; become focus. Proverbs smiled, took my arm Betty just as a gentleman and Cleveland warm pajamas, all those acquired material became a school would, teacher with Cityflannel and in their community, war-torn photographs life, and listened for hours myself that loneliness and onlyprove here for three however, I am discovering 29:25 says “Fear of man, will to be a snare, Schools, and Mitchell went to work for the possessions railroad. ofare family members, and beside each recliner is a walked with me to the large commercial bus that would worthless. Family, friendships, service to his alone grandsons expressing weeks; being are not the sameone thing. Loneliness typically buttattered whoeverand trusts in the Lord is however, kept safe”their Later he became of the members of our City worn Bible. be his ride toincludes safety. ICouncil. was not prepared the kiss heabout a andtime, ultimately love conquers their veryanxious direct opinions. Whenafor they disagreed love andThey openwe dialogue with ourinchildren created feelings about lack of connection (NIV).When keep trusting Him, and He will still laugh atall. each other with each When asked what was the secret to loving other. There are also days where the laughter subject, my father laughed and diffused the tension with memories that will last a lifetime. Intergenerational with others. I will not attempt to address loneliness; fill the void of being alone, because we are never placed on my cheek, but as I helped Corbin to his seat, I The Bible says, “What does it profit a man if he and each other through sixty-nine years of marriage, the talking are silent. On those days, Fox News humor, and I witnessed our boys seeking their Papa’s relationships however, I will attempt to address being alone. alone indon’t Him.always have to begin with somehow knew in mythey mind this“Stay was busy not the worst gains world and loses hisheard soul?” saw that in boththat stated, so you don’t get into the whole anchors are the only voices inIthe apartment. advice morealone and more evening.to meet new friends. grandparents.my They are formed Iathave churches, in thesuch work • Being is Betty an each opportunity recent trouble!” and Mitchell were married at First Through Mitchell said travels, it best, “Whatdiscovered she forgets, I can he had experienced. The courage peoplerelationships we serve are tough, action this month as Ilearning watched people lose their Intergenerational are key to the future involved place, communities and within the family unit. Withwhole It takes to step out of your comfort strength Him. I am When to laughs, walk with only one Baptist Church in 1946, and were always inin in remember. she I am happy, and even their church, work, family. They sons. though there were days she likeofme, of our zone, world, not just country. According to the U.S.two strong intergenerational interaction, our blue print the she and they are resilient. They canour survive on very world, yet maintained their soul. They survived. and walk across theand street andlittle; meet a had new voice speaking into my ear, knowing Hedidn’t will guide me. Both Tony David were strong boys, raisedpast by will help always Bureau, by theand year 2050 the nation’s elderly our loved youngme.” leaders define a clear vision for neighbor. It takes to stretch out however, theyCensus respond warmly tocourage the love shown toyour Betty was a strong, no-nonsense working mother. population will more than double to 88 million, and their future. Esmerelda isiscampus manager Esmerelda Lee has worked in the senior EsmereldaLee Lee campus manager for Garden them by volunteers. loving, but she always made it clear that her sons for Garden Plaza offor Cleveland, an the more frail, over-85 to 19they would Plaza of Cleveland, anover independent and assisted living industry sixteen years. would love population educationwill likequadruple she did, and independent and assisted facility living facilityas for seniors.living She operations and her husband She works a divisional for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children. 28 // October 34 June 2017 34 // //2017 July specialist forthree Enlivant Andrew have children.Senior Living. 342017 // March 2016
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
I
Shelter by Mande Chapman
t’s easy to take a look around and be overcome with anxiety, fear, and confusion. Our world seems to be in a downward spiral. We hear of wars, murder, poverty, kidnapping, abuse, human trafficking, devastation, and death. Many times it is hard to keep a Godly perspective of what is really happening around us. Without a doubt, these horrible events are breaking the heart of God. Often times, the enemy will use scare tactics to torture God’s people. Yes, the world is full of evil. Yes, people are making choices that dishonor God and mock the belief and heart of His people. It is incredibly sad to turn on the news and hear of the evil and wrong that seems to be in every headline no matter where you live. There has always been evil. It’s the reason Christ Jesus came and offered Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. It is because of God sending His Son that we can see a different perspective than what the world portrays. Psalm 91:4 says, “He will shield you with His wings. He will shelter you with His feathers. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” What an amazing promise of His protection and shelter in our lives. We do not have to live in fear. God promises His protection in the midst of danger. He doesn’t promise a world free from danger but He does promise His help whenever we face danger. If we truly believe God’s Word and His promises, the enemy and his scare tactics cannot back us into
30 // October 2017
a corner. We can live with peace in our hearts even when the world around us is tumultuous and seems unrestrained. We have a hope that needs to be shared. This is a promise of protection, and the way it is written in the Psalms is with such a gentle and delicate voice; it speaks of God’s wings spreading over us, His feathers becoming shelter, and His promises becoming our armor. Sometimes, we forget how powerful our God really is. Yes, the world seems completely turbulent but how awesome to think that something as delicate as a feather is stronger with our God than what the world can ever throw at us. Think about what God’s Word is saying. A beautiful, delicate feather that can be carried by the wind is all that the Father needs to be able to shield us and protect us from all the enemy would devise to scare us and devour us with. God’s promises are our armor and our protection. What an incredible picture of the power of God. Are you resting in His shelter- even in the midst of the world where you live? We need to live victoriously, no matter what the news is sharing. We should be the leading voice in a hurting world. We have a hope and a promise that is unmatched by any religious viewpoint or military strategy. We have a shelter in the Almighty God!
Mande Chapman is a pastor’s wife and mom of six in Chattanooga, TN. She has a heart to see the church passionately living life to it’s fullest and sharing the Gospel around the world. She is currently serving as the global missions director of City Church Chattanooga.
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Gò0dNews for Couples The 50/50 Rule Versus God’s Covenant/Marriage Relationship
D
by Theodore Young Jr. & Stephanie Young
oes the 50/50 rule in marriage hold up to God’s
and who created the covenant. God created the covenant
standard? This is a common saying from both
relationship and there are three participants in it. God,
married and single individuals that share their
man, and the woman are in this special, unique, and divine
expectations of marriage. However, this saying is not
relationship. If I, as a husband, treat my wife badly it not
found or supported in the Bible. God never expressed
only impacts her but God who is with us. If I, as a wife,
or detailed about married couples splitting duties and
treat my husband badly, my connection with my husband
obligations down the middle. In Genesis 2:23-25 when
and God is affected. We are hindering our destiny
Eve arrived on the scene Adam had already been given
and causing friction within our marriage.
responsibilities in the garden as well as the task for
Eve was created as Adam’s helpmeet. The
naming all of the animals. The main statement about Eve’s purpose was in Gen 1:28, “God blessed them and told them, ’multiply and fill the earth and subdue
term that God uses as helper is not someone to hand a man his tools or even just to cook food. The Hebrew word speaks to a “divine helper,” someone who is
it. Be masters over the fish and birds
not only here to bear children, but
and all the animals.’” God expressed
someone who I can gain insight
His desire for His reflection on earth.
from. Someone that is locked in
He commanded them to multiply. God
on God’s word and wants to be
created Eve from Adam’s side to be at his
the very best in God. My wife
side. There was not a checklist that divided
wants to see me become more
responsibilities. Adam did not say to Eve,
than the sum of my parts. My
“I have contributed this half day’s work,
husband wants me to the best
so now you need to pick up the other
woman of God I can be. God has
half.” Eve was an equal partner that
given unique talents to her to
was needed to achieve God’s purpose
help me when I am in need. God
for both to have dominion on earth. What then is the percentage? 60/40?
has blessed him as a covering of protection and encouragement. My
30/70? Or is there an assignable percentage
wife places me in position to display
at all? Genesis 2:24 states that the two
the love and grace that I have
are united as one. The man and woman
received from Christ. My husband
are whole beings and come together to
places me in position to respect and
form one unit. We are now connected
uplift him in the Lord. Together,
in a covenant relationship to walk out
God has placed us in position to be
God’s mission and vision for our lives.
the reflection of who He is and His
A covenant relationship does not (or
love for the world!
should not) focus on whether my spouse is contributing the same as I am at any given time. What a covenant relationship focuses on is who is in the relationship
32 // October 2017
Theodore and Stephanie Young have celebrated 20 years of marriage this year and are proud parents of teenage daughters. They have partnered in couples/ marriage ministry since they were newlyweds. They currently facilitate a marriage group, From This Day Forward, in their home each month.
Cleveland Apple Festival
October 21 & 22 Admission
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Saturday, October 21 10am - 6pm
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Sunday, October 22 1pm - 6pm
Gò0dNews for Everyone
F
An Anointed Character by Emilee Burroughs
ive years ago, God gave me a dream to create a
before allowing God to grow and strengthen their
Christian fashion magazine for teen girls called
character. We, as followers of Christ, cannot rush our
Anointed Magazine, which comes from the verse
anointing ahead of God’s timing. When we jump
Isaiah 61:1; it reads, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon
ahead of God’s schedule, we experience major setbacks
me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good
and frustrations that could have been avoided had
news.” After graduating from college this past May, I
we simply waited on the Lord and surrendered our
turned my full attention to growing Anointed because
anointing to Him.
I believe that Anointed is a part of God’s anointing on
Many times God chooses to refine our character
my life. But during the
through trials. Just as gold
three months following
is purified when heat is
graduation, I allowed this
applied to it, so are we
anointing to overshadow
purified through difficult
my relationship with God.
times. Yet, no matter how
I was so consumed
difficult these times may
with making Anointed
be, we can rest assured
into a business, that I had
that God is right there
lost sight of the original
alongside us. “For this light
vision God had given
momentary affliction is
me — to proclaim His
preparing for us an eternal
holy name to teen girls.
weight of glory beyond all
My character was also
comparison, as we look not
suffering because of my
to the things that are seen
fixation on becoming a
but to the things that are
business woman rather
unseen. For the things that
than a godly woman. I was anxious, stressed, and
are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are
frustrated with God for not opening the doors I was
eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).
pushing against. Then God reminded me that His
We all have an anointing on our lives “to bring
anointing on my life must first be aligned with my
good news” (Isaiah 61:1). If you are unsure of what
character.
your anointing looks like, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal
A few years ago, I attended a Sunday evening
it to you. When you know what that anointing is,
service at Grace Midtown Church, located in Atlanta.
don’t rush into it until God has given you clearance to
The speaker’s message that night was on having good
do so. Allow Him to refine your character. And above
character to match your anointing. He said that each of
all else, surrender your anointing to the One who
us have a specific and unique anointing on our lives “to
gave it to you, for your identity comes from Him, not
bring good news” (Isaiah 61:1). God gives each of us an
from your anointing.
anointing on our lives, but first He refines our character so that it’s aligned with that anointing. There are many well-meaning Christians, myself included, who have dived head-first into their anointing
34 // October 2017
Emilee Burroughs is a proud and recent alumna from Berry College with a degree in multimedia journalism. Her hope is to inspire and encourage others through her business Anointed Magazine, a Christian fashion magazine for teen girls. To check out the magazine and learn more about Anointed, please visit AnointedMag.com.
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Gò0dNews for Singles
E
The Scarlet “S” by Jenny Godwin
ver walk into a church and immediately feel like you’re wearing the scarlet ’S?’ The gut-sinking feeling of not only being new or afraid but also alone? Been there. I’m not certain on the specifics, but I do know that nowadays people are getting married and starting families later in life. Often times one of the first five questions people ask someone they haven’t seen in a while is about their romantic life. There’s a lot of identity found in one’s relationship status or at least that’s how it seems, because that’s the focus. However, our identity is found in Christ. Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Personally, I’ve (finally) come to the conclusion that singleness is to be embraced and enjoyed. Some days are difficult and even lonely but they pass. Marriage doesn’t bring total joy or fix problems. Just like a career doesn’t bring total satisfaction or completion. Don’t get me wrong, these are marvelous things and are most certainly gifts, but they bring their own sets of challenges. While they do bring happiness, keep in mind that happiness can be taken away with a phone call or a text message. Churches mean well, they really do. There are so many things to focus on within ministry with the same
36 // October 2017
goal. Directing our lives to God in order to bring glory, honor, and be examples of His love. If you long to have a singles ministry there, talk to your pastor or director of small groups. You can be a big part of that ministry and offering to others so they are reminded that the “S” in single isn’t a bad thing. They belong and are a big part of the church as a whole. We all have ways God uses us where we are, so be willing. What’s to be said here is that on the days that I have felt excluded or lonely because of singleness, I have the choice in how to respond. We are called to be Jesus followers, not labeled by our relationship status. Lots of things taught to married couples can be taught to singles as well. Once I finally stopped making my focus on what I was “missing out on,” I found more fulfillment in Christ. Making the most of time with friends in all stages of life has impacted me in major ways and I’m thankful for how they’ve opened up their lives, it has encouraged me significantly. There will be more on those interactions in the future, but for now, know that your singleness isn’t a sentence. You get to choose how you embrace life and move forward in each day. Choose joy.
Jenny Godwin is vivacious, competitive, and can usually be located in a room by her loud laugh or animated motions. Her goal is to tie in life’s quirks and turns with God’s sincere goodness, pursuit, forgiveness and ultimate joy.
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Our Location: 9231 Lee Highway Ooltewah, TN 37363 www.thesamaritancenter.net
Gò0dNews for Women’s Health
Earlobe Reduction/Repair
H
by Dr. James White
aving earlobe reduction, reset, or repair are
recently appeared on The Doctors TV show to repair an
common and fairly inexpensive office based
ear stretched out by ear gauging. Ear gauging is a process
surgical procedures which can make a definite
where the earlobes are stretched radically to accommodate
change in one’s appearance. Earlobes come in all shapes,
jewelry. The long term effects are not very attractive and
floppy, attached, detached, small, medium, and large.
many choose to repair their stretched earlobes when they
Some patients have congenital enlargement of the
want to enter the corporate workplace or begin their own
earlobes. Earlobe contouring can be completed to change
families. Branches of the military require earlobe piercings
the lobe to the desired shape/size. While heavy earrings
to be small; small enough not to allow light to pass through
or gauges may be popular today, one might regret the effects to the earlobes with age. Not to worry, stretched, misshaped and torn earlobes are typically repairable as an inoffice surgery procedure. Split/torn earlobes or stretched
the opening. If the earlobe is stretched enough to allow light to pass, surgical repair is required prior to enlistment. With keloids, or hypertophic changes of the skin due to trauma, incisions are often seen in the earlobe due to
earlobes are a common problem
piercing. Keloid scar tissue can be
faced by many women. Fortunately,
surgically excised with surgical repair.
repairing the earlobe is a relatively
Steroids and other chemotherapy
straightforward office procedure
agents can be infiltrated at the site
that can be performed in less than an
to help prevent reoccurrence of the
hour. In certain cases, however, the
keloid hypertrophic scars.
problem may be that the earlobe has
The Earlobe Reduction procedure
thinned and the earring will not stay
may actually restore enlarged earlobes
in the desired position, but will instead droop downward. In these cases it is often possible to rejuvenate the earlobe simply by using a dermal filler to plump it up. This creates the support for an earring to remain in the ideal position. Simple tears of the earlobe are straight forward. Local
or stretched earlobes to their previous condition by excising extra flesh. Earlobe reset can also be completed for stretched misshaped earlobes due to poor earlobe set from short scar facelift surgical procedures. The cost to repair torn earlobes varies by surgeon and by region ranging from $350 for simple
anesthetic is injected into the earlobe and surrounding
tears up to $1,500 for more complex repairs. Earlobe repair
tissues. The section of extra tissue, scar or stretched
is usually considered cosmetic and is not a covered benefit
piercing, is removed entirely. The two halves are then
for most insurance carriers. Earlobe repair/reset is typically
reconnected and approximated with fine sutures with reset
performed in an accredited office surgery suite using IV
of the earlobe to a more natural position/shape. After about
sedation and local anesthesia.
a week, there may be a thin white scar, but this should fade over time. Laser resurfacing to the scars can be completed in the healing phase. Ears may then be re-pierced after 6-12 weeks, should patients choose to wear earrings again. More complex otoplasty, or cosmetic ear surgery, can be handled by doctors like Dr. Sandra Lee who
38 // October 2017
Dr. James E. White is a board-certified General Surgeon by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Surgeons. His office, Advanced Surgical Concepts (ASC) is located at 2290 Ogletree Ave, Suite 112 in the Hamilton Office Park across from the Hamilton YMCA. ASC offers a variety of cosmetic procedures including varicose vein procedures, laser skin resurfacing, facial fillers, minimal invasive surgery and liposculpture. 423-648- 4011 or visit www. advsurgical.com for a complimentary consultation.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Rebecca (Part 1) by Pam Turner
J
esus loves me this I know for I know. “Shut up in there! Stop
would pick her up; this was her third drug arrest. Her parents
that singing!” Little ones to him belong. “Where is your
had paid for rehab twice. She had stolen their money, lied, and
Jesus now, girl!” Rebecca struggled to open her eyes.
even pawned her Nana’s pearls. They had forgiven her the
Where was she? “Jones, you are outta here!” Rebecca didn’t
first few times, but after a while even they gave up on her. So
even hear her name, but she recognized that voice. Another
who was here?
female voice yelled. “You think Jesus loves a druggie like
As Rebecca entered the waiting area, she immediately
you! Ain’t nobody that stupid!” The combinations of sweat
recognized that smile. It was Leslie, one of the youth pastors.
and urine were too familiar. “I am glad you finally stopped
“Hello Beautiful, let’s get some breakfast.” Rebecca hugged
singing,” her cellmate continued to talk. Suddenly everything
Leslie rightly and cried. I am so sorry. I really tried this time.
was very clear. It was her voice singing. Why did she
I don’t know what happened. Leslie ignored her words and
remember that song?
said, “Come on, let’s eat.” After breakfast, Leslie invited
For a brief moment, Rebecca was ten again. She was
Rebecca to stay with her until she could figure things out.
dressed in her yellow Easter Dress and a bonnet with an
Leslie was getting clean linens off the shelf. As she reached for
enormous yellow sunflower. She loved praising her Heavenly
a towel, Rebecca noticed the marks on her arm. Could that be?
Father. She hummed as she recalled those wonderful Sundays,
Leslie was a leader in the church. How could this be possible?
raising her hands, letting the Holy Spirit fill her heart. He
Leslie recognized the look of surprise, as she has seen it many
who died Heaven’s gate to open wide, let his little child in. “Jones,
times before. Rebecca tried hard to hide her shock. It seemed
don’t you want to go home!” It was the guard. Fully awake,
unreal; surely this perfect church lady wasn’t an addict. Leslie
reality began to set in. She was in jail. Again. She read her
sat down beside Rebecca slowly and pulled out an old dusty
Bible and prayed so much her knees were black and blue. She
photo album. “Can I tell you how Jesus changed my life?”
was following her plan, but staying clean was harder than she ever imagined. She caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Her hair was matted, and her mascara that was flawless a few hours ago was a black mess around her eyes. Maybe her cellmates were right, why would Jesus love her, she was a druggie, and maybe that is all she would ever be. She gathered the paper bag with her few possessions. She wondered who
40 // October 2017
To be continued… Pam Turner is the CEO of pamturner ministries. She is a motivational speaker for hurting women, she is an anointed minister, and a licensed clinical social worker. She has over 20 years of practice helping those who have experienced pain. Her professional credits include a bachelors and a masters degree in social work. A social worker, college professor and a minister, she has helped many people walk out the plan God has for their lives. Her expertise in counseling, treating drug addicts, abused women and children, restoring broken marriages and treating people with mental health issue, has allowed her to witness the healing power of God.
ò0 Mission Statement:
W
e believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
Christian Magazine
Writer Guidelines: Who: Our writers range from pastors,
professors, and professional writers to stay at home moms and dads, business professionals, and others who have a desire to reach out to people through words of encouragement.
What: We believe that it is important to laugh
together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you!
Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to
just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Safe Families for Children
G
by Amy Scott
od ordained for children to be raised in the context
possibility of caring for these children because it is too scary
of family who loves them and meets their needs.
for us to become attached, it does not make the needs of the
Children need someone to advocate for them, pray
children disappear.
with them, pick them up when they fall down, feed them, tell
“Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Anyone who wants to be
them stories at night, and explore with them. The simple act of
first must be last, and the servant of all.’ He took a little child
meeting a child’s needs moment after moment, day after day
whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he
builds in them the very capacity to bond to people throughout
said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in
life. It is always first choice for the biological family to meet
my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not
the needs of a child, but that is not always possible.
welcome me but the one who sent me’” (Mark 9:33-37 ESV).
Rooted in the local church and fueled by the desire to
Safe Families for Children is a vehicle by which the church
practice biblical hospitality, Safe Families for Children™
can re-emerge as champion for families in need. Safe Families
(SFFC) is a national movement of compassion that gives
for Children has been active in the Greater Chattanooga area
hope to families in crisis. This network of volunteer host
as a ministry of Bethany Christian Services for two and half
families help parents who need temporary care for their
years, and over 50 children have been positively impacted by
children as they work through unmanageable or critical
the ministry. We have many opportunities for volunteers –
circumstances. Parents are actively involved in their
host families, mentors, coaches, and people to organize and
children’s lives and will develop a relationship with the
donate resources. Our volunteers speak about the rich blessing
host family. Because Safe Families for Children is not foster
their family receives in opening their lives to children in their
care, the children are not placed in the care of the State.
time of need. The Church, our volunteers, and parents band
Bethany staff work with the parents during this transition to
together and become heroes to the community.
identify steps to regain stability and be reunited with their children quickly and safely. Sometimes potential volunteers express fear of getting
If you feel God is calling you or your church to become involved in the ministry of Safe Families for Children – visit www.bethany.org/chattanooga to learn more.
too close to a child while hosting which would make saying goodbye too difficult when they are returned to their parents. We fear the very thing these kiddos need – someone to become attached to them during the crisis! If we dismiss the
42 // October 2017
Amy Scott is the executive director of Bethany Christian Services of Greater Chattanooga. She is an adoptee who passionately serves the adoption community for over ten years. Amy resides in North Georgia with her husband and three daughters. Visit www.bethany.org/chattanooga for more information.
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