Gò0dNews March 2022
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Christian Magazine
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CLEVELAND
Back Row (L to R): Darrin Douglas, licensed funeral director; Mason Holliday, funeral assistant; Perry Horner, funeral assistant; Marc Rush, licensed funeral director; Jim Hibbard, funeral assistant. Front Row (L to R): Brent Swanson, funeral assistant; Robert Bankston, funeral assistant; Judy Satterfield, administrative assistant; Kathy Partin, family services; Joseph Bathe, funeral assistant; Darla Rush, administrative assistant; Greg Rush, licensed funeral director. Not pictured: Jenna Eve Picou, licensed funeral director; Harold (Joe) Parker, funeral assistant; Susan Harper, after care-family support.
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Abdiel Medina Andrew Lee Brenda Dedmon Brian Johnson Dana Robinson Danette Reeves Dorothy Teague Eddie Turner Greg Grotewold Jodi Varnado John Garrod Jonathon Wright Joy Elisabeth Brown Juanita G. Ellis Judy Hood Leah Hadder Natalie Emert Norma Hill Paula Burgner Paul McGuire Samuel Burger Sandra Gilmore
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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 six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, 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,
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Contents MARCH 2022
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 A Christocentric Approach to Fear
by Samuel Burger
GoodNews for Kids
8 Wilson, The Boy Who Hated to Ride the School Bus by Juanita G. Ellis
GoodNews Money Matters
10 Values: Back to Basics by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Language or Lifestyle by Brian Johnson
GoodNews for Women
14 Praying For Craig by Leah Hadder
GoodNews for Everyone
18 Seasonal Changes by John Garrod
GoodNews for Everyone
20 Prayer Time
by Norma Hill
GoodNews for Life
22 Troubled Bones
by Greg Grotewold
GoodNews for Parents
24 Helping Your Child Develop to Be Their Best Selves
by Brenda Dedmon GoodNews for Everyone
26 Keepers Of The Light by Dorothy Teague
GoodNews Cover Story
28 Jim Rush Funeral
and Cremation Services
by Jodi Varnado GoodNews for Everyone
30 On the Road Again by Sandra Gilmore
GoodNews for Everyone
32 What’s Your Story?
by Joy Elisabeth Brown
GoodNews for Everyone
34 Let Food Be Thy Medicine by Dana Robinson
GoodNews for Everyone
36 The Useful Disciple by Eddie Turner
GoodNews for Everyone
38 Healing Heart
6
by Abdiel Medina
GoodNews for Everyone
40 March Winds
by Danette Reeves
GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Moments of Joy: Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
by Dana Robinson GoodNews for Everyone
44 I’m Not Lucky, I’m Blessed! by Paula Burgner
GoodNews for Students
28
46 How To Be a Christian Nurse in A Secular World
by Natalie Emert GoodNews Poetry
50 Your Love Reached Deep by Judy Hood
GoodNews for Family
52 Speak Life, Speak Future, Speak Hope
by Paul McGuire GoodNews Poetry
54 The Good Samaritan Part 1 by Jonathon Wright
52
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
A Christocentric Approach to Fear
I
by Samuel Burger
n this article, I would like to address some of the fears in
generation afterward, according to Romans Chapter Five.
our culture, approach how fear got here theologically,
Along with inherent sin, this fear branches into the fear of
and how we can resolve to deal with fear biblically.
rejection, the fear of inadequacy, etc.
The first fear I believe is prevalent in our society is
Guilt, shame, and fear are all associated with separation
the fear of death. It seems we avoid this topic because it is
from God. When we are separated from God, fear abounds.
so uncomfortable for us. It’s uncomfortable because it is
When we reject God, fear abounds. Notice that Adam’s
seemingly unknown. What will happen when it is time to leave
disobedience was linked with his fear. This is generationally
this walk of life? Many people have deep questions concerning eternity. All of us deal with this topic differently, but it is a real thing, and the worst thing we can do is avoid it. By avoiding it, the fear of death is exacerbated. There’s a better approach. The second fear I believe is prevalent in our society is the fear of financial lack. Remember seeing those commercials discussing how we need to invest in something else because of the devaluing of our currency? It seems that when a selling point needs to be made it is rooted in fear. The perspective behind the selling point is that if you tap into the emotions, you have more likeability to sell the product. Many advertisers use the emotion or spirit of fear to their advantage. Our culture
passed down, and the only way to resolve the matter is to
is radically inundated with the fact that we may not have
trust the One who has already resolved the matter. Jesus
enough and this prolongs our fear of the future. It seems we
is referred to as the second Adam (1 Cor, 15:45-49), which
make decisions out of fear on a constant basis.
points out Adam’s failure to obey God and the faithfulness
There are an incredible number of fears that I could
of Jesus to obey God. In Adam, we inherited fear. In Jesus,
address in this article, but I think just addressing these
we inherit faith. In Adam, we inherited death. In Jesus, we
two fears leads us to contemplate other fears that exist in
inherit life. Sin has affected us deeply in that it has separated
our culture. Why are they here? In Genesis Chapter Three,
us from God and distorted our thinking. Complete
(I encourage you to read it) God called to Adam after he
restoration only comes through a relationship with Jesus
disobeyed God. God asked the question, “Where are you?”
Christ, the second Adam.
in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” Sin entered humanity and would follow every
6 // March 2022
About The Author
Adam gave a fearful response. He says, “I heard your voice Samuel Burger is pastor of Chestuee Worship Center in Calhoun, TN, and is happily married to Danyelle. It is the vision of the church to reach the lost and teach the saved.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Wilson, The Boy Who Hated to Ride the School Bus
W
by Juanita G. Ellis
ilson loved to walk home after school. When
he wasn’t fast enough. After getting his books and his coat
all the other kids raced to the yellow school
and running to the buses, he still missed the bus!
buses lined up in front of T.J. Walker, Wilson
That day in the hall outside of his 5th grade room, he
would walk around to the side of the building, past the
bumped heads with another boy who was running for HIS
basketball court and the pile of sand at the very edge of the
bus! A huge egg developed on Wilson’s forehead. He tried
playground. Wilson liked walking through the play yard.
very hard not to cry. “WHAT happened to you?” everyone
He liked remembering the fun he had at recess.
asked. That’s when Wilson decided to get off the bus. He never rode the bus again. Past the playground behind the school was a huge ditch that divided the housing project from the schoolyard. A board was placed over the ditch at the far edge of the playground. Wilson thought, “Some kids made that bridge.” Wilson loved walking beside the ditch until he came to the bridge. By the second day, Wilson could find the bridge without even thinking about it. The houses on the other side of the bridge were all alike, but Wilson just kept walking toward his house. He was not afraid. He felt good inside. Wilson loved walking. He liked remembering the street names. He liked listening to himself as he thought of different things. He knew he was growing taller. He liked growing up. During those walks home
Wilson hated riding the bus. Sometimes, Wilson’s
from school, Wilson discovered a secret! God was with him
bus would be late, or it would be in a different spot.
as he was growing stronger and older! Wilson knew God
Sometimes, the regular bus driver would not be there.
would be with him when he was a grown man. Would
Someone ELSE would be driving the bus, or the number
God be with him when he was a grandpa? Squaring his
of the bus would be changed. Some of his friends HAD
shoulders, Wilson knew the answer was YES!
to ride the school bus, but Wilson had a choice. His house was not too far from the school. The day Wilson decided not to ever ride the bus again was the day he collided with another boy in the hall. The
Think 1. Do you and Wilson share some of the same feelings?
dismissal bell had rung. Everyone was racing for the buses!
2. How is Wilson changing and growing?
That was another reason Wilson hated the bus. Sometimes,
3. Do you think part of Wilson’s confidence comes from knowing God is with him?
8 // March 2022
• The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Bradley County is scheduled for Sat., May 21 at First Baptist Church in Cleveland from 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. • This year’s theme is “RACING FOR A CURE” with Teams made up of churches, businesses, family/friends, schools etc. They will be decked out as Relay Pit Crew and each campsite decorated in NASCAR or other racing decorations selling items to raise money for ACS. To register your free team go to www.relayforlife.org/bradleytn or call 1-800-227-2345. • Relay For Life Kickoff breakfast will be at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church on March 15 at 7:30 a.m. Please RSVP by March 9th at 423-498-6118.
Relay Kickoff Breakfast: Tuesday, March 15 | 7:30AM | Wesley Memorial UMC Relay For Life: Saturday, May 21 | 3PM - 10PM | First Baptist Church Cleveland Contact Me Today!
John Schenk 423.902.2274
john.schenk@att.com
Values: Back to Basics MONEY MATTERS
WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
S
how me your bank statement and credit card statement, and I’ll show you what you value. We all have some necessary bills to pay—food, shelter, clothing, transportation (childcare). By scanning our bank statements or credit card bills, we’ll also notice lots of spending that is “discretionary”—meaning, we did it because we wanted to do it; we value these items or experiences. Jesus put it this way, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). By examining these values (proven by our spending), we can decide whether they truly represent what’s important to us, or whether it’s time to reevaluate and perhaps make some changes. Try this exercise: make a list of everything that costs money that you believe is really important to your quality of life. Be honest. Then, compare your list to the items on your bank statements and credit card statements—whether you still have the “old school” printed statements in your mailbox each month, or whether you use a phone app for banking. Now comes serious self-reflection. Do the items on the actual spending record still accurately represent your values today? If so, fine. But if you notice any discrepancies or incongruities, look for ways to realign your current values and redirect your discretionary spending. No matter how much (or how little) income you earn, we all spend money every month on things that aren’t necessities. For starters, Netflix is not a necessity (oops). Do I have Netflix? You bet. I value this service as many of you do. But let’s be honest, it’s not a necessity. Personally, my values are not typically found in material, tangible items. I don’t particularly value expensive, designer clothing or
10 // March 2022
automobiles or jewelry. I drive a 2008 Ford F-150 truck with 200,000 miles on it; most of my clothes are at least four years old, and the only jewelry I wear is my wedding band. I don’t mean that as a boast or to make myself sound pitiful; I’m just being transparent. I do, however, spend money (sometimes lots) on great seats at sporting events and concerts, vacations and nice restaurants. I like to spend money on investments (stock index funds and real estate). It’s not a question of “right” or “wrong.” Just be honest with yourself and what you value. Make adjustments if you don’t like what you see. Ramit Sethi writes in his book I Will Teach You to Be Rich: “Spend extravagantly on the things you love, and cut costs mercilessly on the things you don't.” Even though the book’s title might sound a bit off-putting or arrogant, I highly recommend this book and have read it more than once. Even though Sethi is not yet forty years old, he offers practical steps for saving money, investing regularly on “auto-pilot”, and acquiring wealth slowly but surely. I think many of us could improve our quality of life if we follow his tip to “spend” on what we love and “cut mercilessly” on what we don’t value. Think of your last trip to the grocery store—what were the items where you reached for the generic brand, and which items did you insist on getting “this name brand and no other”? This exercise alone will teach you something, and hopefully will lead you to re-examine other areas of your life. Finally, review all of your subscription services to see which ones you value, and which can be terminated. Do you really need to keep Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Apple TV? If the answer is yes, do you ever get out of bed all day?
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Gò0dNews for Men
Language or Lifestyle
T
by Brian Johnson
he language that’s allowed to be used on television
remain calm during tribulation, others see how God comes
has changed over the years. I’m amazed at some
through as we trust Him. That shows God for who He really
of the things I hear from time to time on regular
is, and we’re representing Him well.
channels, much less the stations that show movies. I’d like
Remember, we want to bring as many people as
to discuss one phrase in particular that makes the typical
possible to a relationship with God. Draw them in with
Christian’s skin crawl—that term we refer to as using the
the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
Lord’s name in vain.
gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance.
Exodus 20:7 says, “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him
When we’re operating in the flesh, what differentiates us from the world?
guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” This is the verse that’s commonly used to talk about how wrong it is to say that skin-crawling phrase, but I submit to you that this verse has less to do with what we say and more to do with how we live. Every word of scripture is important. It says, “Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD in vain; …” not thou shalt not say the name of the LORD in vain. When I married my wife, she took my name. She became Jennifer Johnson. Now, the way she lives affects and is a reflection on me. If she treats people poorly and acts horribly around others, it will hurt my relationship with them because she carries my name. People associate her with me. When you got saved, you became the bride of Christ. You took His name and became a Christian. If you
Don’t get me wrong—I’m not saying that it’s okay to
live your life in a way that brings dishonor to Him, you’ve
speak any way you’d like. That phrase isn’t one that should
taken His name in vain.
roll off of the tongue, but Exodus 20:7 is more about the
II Corinthians 5:20 says that “we are ambassadors for
way we live. Live like you’re carrying the LORD with you
Christ.” We’re His representatives. When we treat people
because you are. You will represent Him regardless of the
poorly, perform lazily at our jobs, or lose our minds every
way you act. Either you’ll be a good representation or a bad
time something negative happens in our lives, how does
one. Be a good one. Don’t take His name in vain.
that show a loving, good, and caring God? One that others Conversely speaking, if we treat others well, even when they’re not good to us, we work hard at our jobs, or we
12 // March 2022
About The Author
would want a relationship with. Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church and a nurse by vocation. He wants to do the best he can to teach people to trust God, for their eternity and for each day.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Praying For Craig
“P
by Leah Hadder
ray for Craig. Pray for him right now,” He said. His
all came together—the call to pray, the timing, what I prayed for,
command came unexpectedly. I was lying in
and the list goes on. It was forgiveness and obedience to God that
bed after a long day, hair twisted into a bun and
provided the capability to form the words of the prayer. I eventually
snuggled under my soft, blue and yellow covers. “Pray? ...What?” I was so tired, working two jobs and taking graduate classes
online. My schedule was packed working, writing papers, teaching
learned from a friend that he indeed was in trouble because of bad decisions. He was entering into a challenging life season, and it would affect his future.
youth kids on Wednesday nights, and getting caught up in the daily
I don’t believe God called me to pray for him because I’m
grind of unending dishes, laundry, and cooking meals. I didn’t have
a “Super Christian.” I’m not the strongest intercessor nor do I
a mirror in front of my face, though I knew I looked a mess, and
know everything about the Bible. I haven’t always been the best
there wasn’t enough makeup to cover my undereye bags.
at attending church events and sometimes I forget which verse matches which reference. Much older and wiser now, I know without a doubt it’s an honor to pray for others, even when they haven’t been the best to you. It wasn’t easy, and I wanted to question it, though He knew of one important factor—I would be obedient to the call. He would use obedience to bless Craig. Sometimes it’s difficult. Other times you may feel denied, disgusted, or drained, though there will be a blessing for putting your faith in God. What happened to Craig? Well, he eventually came out of the “valley.” He is happy and thriving. One thing he may not know though, is that a young woman, in another town, miles away, stopped what she was doing and asked God to intervene. His name was mentioned by someone he cut off, and in forgiveness, she “approached the throne” on his behalf (Hebrews 4:16). I urge you to keep praying. Stay on
“Pray for Craig” was an odd command. I hadn’t spoken to Craig in a very long time. “But God, I haven’t talked to Craig in years. Why do I need to pray for Craig?” I quickly replied. “He’s in trouble and needs your prayers. Pray for him and his future.” Knowing several scriptures regarding obeying God when He
your knees, keep your hands lifted, mumble the words, and press on. Though you can’t always see it, God is working. Heaven is busy. He touched Craig’s life, and He can touch another’s. God is always available. Call out to Him today, and let Him work a miracle through you. As the late Corrie Ten Boom once stated, “We never
speaks, I immediately closed my eyes and prayed. It was awkward.
know how God will answer our prayers, but we can expect that
I couldn’t “wrap my head around” the fact that God would pick
He will get us involved in His plan for the answer. If we are true
me, someone Craig rejected, to specifically pray for his wellbeing.
intercessors, we must be ready to take part in God’s work on behalf
He even wanted me to pray over his future! How could I pray for
of the people for whom we pray.”
someone, of which I believe is an act of love, who walked away Months passed. I still didn’t talk to Craig, nor did Craig miraculously reach out to me. It’s interesting to think of how it
14 // March 2022
About The Author
from me years beforehand?
Leah Hadder is a former internationally recognized pageant queen. Now retired from competition, she shares the Good News as a speaker, writer, and content creator for Pastor Paula White Cain’s Life Network for Women. She is a member of Living Word Church in Cleveland, TN. Contact Leah at www.leahhadder.org.
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Cleveland Church Directory Apostolic
First Apostolic Church Of Cleveland 4859 Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (229) 343-6880
Assembly of God
Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 The Collectives Church 3925 N. Ocoee Street, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 641-0193 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312
Baptist
Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 Bellefounte Baptist Church 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle 3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820 Berean Baptist Church 2355 Bucks Pocket Rd SE, Old Fort, TN 37362 (423) 478-1697 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932 Candies Creek Church 294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-3731 Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 1205 Lower River Rd NW Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 Cloverleaf Baptist Church 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617 Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-3511 Church At Grace Point 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653
16 // March 2022
Dalton Pike Baptist Church 3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Echos of Mercy Baptist Church 535 Durkee Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 715-9739 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Farmland Community Church 1675 Greendale Dr. SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 473-9891 First Baptist Church 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423) 709-9100 Galilee Baptist Church 665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 496-2019 Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763 Lebanon Baptist Church 1411 Old Parksville Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-6700 Macedonia Baptist Church 3119 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-1713 Maple Street Baptist Church 1700 Maple St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-3622 Maranatha Baptist Church 453 Blue Springs Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-8991 Michigan Avenue Baptist Church 2741 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-8891 Mt Carmel Baptist Church 7619 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1620 New Friendship Baptist Church 1344 Chatata Valley Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-6007 New Salem Baptist Church 175 Ladd Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323 North Cleveland Baptist Church 2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524 Oak Grove Baptist Church 4452 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323
(423) 479-9125 Old Pathway Baptist Church 224 Rymer Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Parkway Baptist Church 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522 Philadelphia Baptist Church 910 30th St SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Philippi Baptist Church 2325 Old Harrison Pike NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-5385 Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081 Public Church 850 17th St. NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4405 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church 138 Osment Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 Shiloh Baptist Church 357 Highway 64 Ocoee, TN 37361 (423) 338-4292 Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 Washington Avenue Baptist Church 1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489 Waterville Baptist Church 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-5582 West Cleveland Baptist Church
1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8927 Westwood Baptist Church 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534 White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359
Catholic
St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123
Charismatic
Cleveland Christian Fellowship 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642
Church of God
Community Chapel Church of God 807 Blythe Ave SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-2143 Cornerstone Church of God 1826 SE Dalton Pike Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423) 479-3895 East Cleveland Church of God 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise Church of God 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 Grace Community Church of God 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312. (423) 614-0708 Heritage Fellowship Church of God 4635 South Lee Hwy McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de Adoración 533 Central Ave. NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-1977 Kinser Church of God 141 Kinser Road Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-7400 Lakeview Church of God 105 Pound Street SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 North Cleveland Church of God 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 Michigan Avenue Church of God 515 Minnis Road NE (423) 284-7573 Mt Olive Church of God 3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381
Mt View Church of God 210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (706) 455-3528 Pine Hill Church of God 1484 Old Alabama Rd McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 488-0939 South Cleveland Church of God 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 Westmore Church of God 2440 Legacy Pkwy NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3415
Church of God of Prophecy
Cleveland Spanish COGOP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-7199 Durkee Road COGOP 201 Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-4384 Keith Street Ministries COGOP 4000 Keith ST. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-2448 Peerless Road COGOP 3301 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 303-2680 Spring Place COGOP 2530 Spring Place Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6414 Union Grove COGOP 533 Union Grove Rd Charleston, TN 37310 (423) 479-5357 Wildwood COGOP 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-6584
The Church of God
The Church of God Jerusalem Acres 1826 Dalton Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1597
Community
Fellowship in Christ 1025 Beech Circle NW Cleveland TN 37312 (423) 314-2382
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 3625 N. Ocoee Street Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6682
Episcopal
Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church 320 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311
Lutheran
First Lutheran Church 195 McIntire Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6811
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 4200 Pryor Rd N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312
(423) 503-6394
Methodist
Big Spring United Methodist 1196 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5242 Black Fox United Methodist 1820 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-1908 Broad Street United Methodist 155 Central Ave NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5586 First United Methodist Church 3425 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-4504 Mount Zion UMC 7223 Germantown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 Pleasant Grove UMC 3043 Pleasant Grove Church Rd SW Cleveland, TN 37311 Red Hill United Methodist Church 527 Red Hill Valley Road SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 728-5413 South Cleveland United Methodist 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 507-5760 Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457 Trinity United Methodist Church 731 1st St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-7900 Valley Head Methodist Church 920 Mouse Creek Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-0575 Wesley Memorial Methodist 3405 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-9578
Pentecostal
Faith Memorial Church 910 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6281 First United Pentecostal Church 4095 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9436 Full Gospel House of Prayer 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN Set Free Christian Fellowship 1175 King Edwards Ave. Cleveland, TN
Nazarene
Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-472-7371 New Hope Church of the Nazarene 4514 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-3379
Non-Denominational
Benton Pike House Of Prayer 2615 Peach Orchard Hill Rd, Cleveland, TN 37323 Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE,
Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591 Church Alive Ministries 6315 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8133 Cleveland Community Chapel 1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775 Community Hall Church 1305 6th Street Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-2178 Crossroads Community Church 1000 South Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 716-2871 Dwelling Place Church International 523 Urbane Road NE Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5200 Evening Light Gospel 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Fairhaven Ministry Center 1807 Blythe Ave. SE, Cleveland TN, 37311 Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654 God’s Family Fellowship 2823 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 458-4490 Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 International House of Fire 1701 South Lee Hwy Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 790-0772 The Journey Church 3191 South Lee Hwy, McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 728-4100 Living By Faith Ministries 1175 King Edward Avenue Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 457-9072 Living Word Church 930 25th Street NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 New Life Bible Church 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882 Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249 Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 The Sanctuary 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-2843 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-2705 The TRIBE 1175 King Edward Avenue SE
Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 380-8802 Tri-State Cowboy Church 200 Natures Trail SW, McDonald, TN 37353 (Building 3) (423) 303-8954 United Christian Church 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries 2419 Georgetown Rd NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696
Presbyterian
Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 (423) 284-6397 Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd. NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181 St James Cumberland Presbyterian 151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762 Trinity Presbyterian PCA 1780 Stuart Rd. NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595
Seventh Day Adventist
Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Cleveland Fellowship Church 211 Trewhitt Drive Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 400-7054 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299 Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889
Zion Assembly
Zion Assembly Church of God 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337
List/Update Your Church Listing (423) 478-6484
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Seasonal Changes
“T
by John Garrod
o everything there is a season, and a
the development of His children. A time to kill and a time
time for every purpose under heaven…”
to heal.
(Ecclesiastes 3:1).
I remember taking our puppy, Zoe, out for her first
God does not maintain an app on Android or Apple, whereby we can foretell when seasons are to begin or
experience with snow several years ago. Overnight, the
end, and the level of severity of the season. His reasoning
world had changed, and where grass lay in varying shades
is sound, no matter how frustrating it may be to some of
of brown, tan, and even a little green the day before, there
us who really want to know what is coming around the
was a blanket of uniform bright whiteness. Oh, and it was
bend. God isn’t developing our ability to prepare for the
cold on her little paws.
upcoming season, but rather our ability to trust Him to keep us through those seasons, no matter how severe, how trying, or how unexpected they may be. If we knew what was coming, we’d do what we could to avoid those seasons, but the reality is that those seasons inevitably will and must change. There are times when we will weep, and there are times when we will jump for joy. As immutable and unstoppable as the tides of the ocean, conflicts arise, then peace settles in for a while until the spark ignites again. Zoe had no way of understanding all the nuances of the weather. Animals have some instinctual knowledge of seasons without understanding global warming, El Niño, or
Every year afterward, those first steps into snow
meteorology in general. What Zoe did know was that her
were still a bit of a surprise to Zoe. Of course, it wasn’t a
master would provide food, water, and shelter for her. She
completely new experience for her, but you could tell there
knew he loved her, and that, for her, was enough to warrant
was an element of excitement for her. Zoe knew nothing of
her love and trust for him. Oh, Lord; let me have the faith
cold fronts or precipitation forecasts. She showed no interest
and devotion of my dog!
in weather apps on my phone, whereas her master would eagerly look forward to snowflake designs on forecasts. Seasons come and go in our lives. As Ecclesiastes 3
Just a week before Christmas, Zoe was stricken by a sudden onset kidney problem, and we had to make the difficult decision to have her put to sleep. A season of tears and sadness. This season will change; nothing will change
for every purpose under heaven. A time for discovery,
the love she had for her master, nor that which her master
a time for resting in the familiar. A time to build things
had for her.
up, and a time to break things down. God places and coordinates those times according to His purposes and for
18 // March 2022
About The Author
declares to us: there is a season for everything and a time
John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one. He is a graduate of Lee University (c/o ’19), a discipleship teacher at South Cleveland Church of God, and a U.S. Army veteran.
Church Activities & Events First Baptist Cleveland First Fit
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Lee University Pangle Hall Ladies of Lee Concert
Tuesday, March 22 | 7:30PM - 9:30PM 340 Church St NE, Cleveland, TN
Earth Angels Survivors & Warriors Women’s Cancer Support Group
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Prayer Time
A
by Norma Hill
bout a decade ago, I had an idea on fulfilling
In 2019, I welcomed the opportunity to be on
the Great Commission, “Go ye into all the
the radio to host a live devotional every Wednesday
world and preach the Gospel…” (Matthew
on a local radio station 99.9 FM—local and in East
28:19). I had about 1,000 people on my e-mail contact
Tennessee, and worldwide on Woopfm.com. I heard
list. I was sending out e-mails with ministry material
God again in 2019, with a ministry for a one-hour
and videos on biblical information seeking to touch
time slot on the local radio station. My focus was on
the heart of people. My main goal was to tell them to
winning souls and reciting the plan of salvation of the sinner’s prayer to the audience. Every month, I saw the light shining brighter during the Covid-19 pandemic. I tested positive for Covid-19 in March of 2020, which put me in isolation for three weeks. During that time, I had an insight and revelation for my ministry. Habakkuk 2:2-3 came to mind, “And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it
share the salvation message that I was sending with
tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will
everyone in their contacts. I also had ministry/business
not tarry.”
cards made. As the year went by, my ideas were fulfilling my
During 2020, God gave me illuminations which led my ministry into a revelation when I experienced
purpose. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “‘For I know the plans
Covid-19. I had to be isolated, and during this time,
I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper
I had encountered an insight on where God wanted
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and
to take the ministry. Each Saturday, I share the Word
a future.’” I heard God saying, “Prayer Time.” And at
of God from 2-3 p.m. EST on Woopfm.com and lead
the beginning of 2012, I heard God further speak to me
individuals to Christ by divine appointment.
about ministry on a local television station, WTNB. He station, and in May of 2012, I went on the air and was broadcasted every Sunday afternoon for six years.
20 // March 2022
About The Author
gave me the theme “Prayer Time.” I called the television
Chaplain Norma Hill and her husband, Deacon Eric Hill, live in Cleveland, TN. They are the parents of two adult children, a son—the late Victor Hill—and daughter Jamie Hill. She is a 2005 graduate of the Pentecostal Seminary in Cleveland, TN, in which she holds a M.A. in Leadership Ministry. Norma is an ordained elder and an active member of South Cleveland Church of God. She is a community chaplain, author of six published books, and an ambassador with Donate Life Tennessee, as well as a Youtube Content Creator where her primary focus is ministry. Her channel is Norma Ferguson Hill.
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Gò0dNews for Life
Troubled Bones
“O
by Greg Grotewold
LORD, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle
me in your wrath. Be gracious to me, O LORD, for
and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For
I am languishing; heal me, O LORD, for my bones
my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (28-30, ESV). Come,
are troubled. My soul also is greatly troubled. But you, O LORD—
Lord Jesus, come. Show yourself and deliver me. Be gracious
how long? Turn, O LORD, deliver my life; save me for the sake of
towards me and give this soul the peace only You can provide.
your steadfast love” (Psalm 6:1-4, ESV).
I plead with You to act.
Life is hard—at times, really hard. A trial’s difficulty becomes particularly acute when well-intentioned efforts to overcome the challenges (or at least mitigate their influence) not only fail but in fact, exacerbate the problem. Such futility compounds the weariness felt, introducing a season of bewilderment. I’m in one of those seasons. Like David in his travails above, I too am languishing; my bones are troubled. And also, like David, I find
The petition is as varied in scope as the myriad of sentiments that drive it. It’s a complicated combination of intense lament and earnest appeal with a few droplets of hope lightly sprinkled amongst the mix. I’m thankful for those droplets though, however sparse. They keep me sane and serve as reminders that Jesus is a promise keeper. He will intervene.
myself crying out to the Lord, pleading for some display of His omnipotent goodness. The broader context might be useful here. Though physically apart only twelve inches, an ocean of separation has formed between my mind (what I know to be true) and my heart (what I feel to be true). I know Jesus reigns. I know He is with me and desires to bless my efforts. I know He cares for me and has my best interest in mind. I know He will ultimately prevail, and so will I as a result. But Romans 8:28, a verse that has brought great comfort to me in the past, now feels hollow: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (ESV). I know that whatever trial comes my way will at some point benefit me. I know that intellectually, but it means little right now emotionally in the midst of my apparent failures. Timidity and worry have displaced any semblance of confidence and peace. These burdens, as one would expect, have dominated my prayer time. The cadence has looked something like this:
As my pastor recently reminded me, God isn’t angered by raw transparency such as mine. He certainly wasn’t with David’s. After all, the Lord had the Psalms canonized as part of Scripture for everyone to see. Not only is He not upset, He actually wants me to approach Him. Jesus desires that I pursue Him and put words
How long Lord before you change either my circumstances
to my angst, regardless of how untamed and messy they might be.
or my ability to more effectively influence them? How long
Because when I do, I’m signaling something very important. In the
will my angst escape mediation? When will my head more
midst of great trial, my greatest need is Him.
fully inform my heart, releasing me from the weight of my
The Lord can handle anything we might throw at Him. If
weariness? When will I be able to maintain an element of joy
your bones are troubled, plead with Jesus for His intervention. Go
regardless of life’s realities? When will my efforts produce
to Him and pour out your heart. I pray He will deliver both of us
tangible good? You promise to bless the humble but why then
from our present weariness.
does my lowliness continue to go unanswered? Will regret be receive the rest you articulate in Matthew 11: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
22 // March 2022
About The Author
a constant companion until you take me home? When will I
Greg Grotewold lives in Oakdale, MN, with his wife, Sandi, and their two sons, Luke and Eli. He is a deacon in his local church and greatly enjoys serving in this capacity.
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Gò0dNews for Parents
Helping Your Child Develop to Be Their Best Selves
Y
by Brenda Dedmon
our child is God’s gift. We read in Psalm 127:3, “Children are a gift from God; they are His reward” (The Message). As parents, you have the formidable and daunting role in helping your child develop to become all that God created them to be. He has gifted you with your child and will guide you as you seek Him to fulfill this role. He also promises His help found in this scripture, “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you” (Jeremiah 29:11-12, RSV). One of the most important things for you is to ask God to help you discover His plan for your life and seek to be faithful to Him every day. You will not be the perfect parent. Mary and Joseph were not perfect parents either. They left Jesus in the Temple without realizing it for a couple of days.
day? Do you model gratitude for the home you have, the meals you share, your family, and most of all, God’s love for you? • Listen: Life gets busy, and it is often hard to listen to what your child is saying. Family mealtime is
You will find below basic things you need to provide for your child:
24 // March 2022
a wonderful time to create space for listening and talking about the things going on for everyone. However, it is even a challenge to have a family mealtime. A friend of mine said one night she told her children it was time for dinner, so they all got in the car! It is so important to listen that you need to intentionally develop a listening time. Life should not be lived in a rush! Stop and marvel at the sunset, smell the flowers, bless the rainbow as God’s promise, and develop a sense of listening to your child. This also means you need to intentionally develop a time of listening to God for yourself!
About The Author
• Trust: How do you help your child learn to trust? It begins even in infancy, with you meeting their basic needs even before they can talk. When they are hungry, you feed them and you change their wet diapers. This is the beginning of developing trust, which as they grow will help them learn to trust you more. It is the first step in developing their trust in God. • Gratitude: It is a time-honored path that proves experiencing gratitude makes one’s life less stressful. The benefits of living a life of gratitude include struggling less emotionally. Living out of a grateful heart benefits and increases the ability to receive from others and allows one to live a productive life. The best way for your child to develop gratitude is to follow your daily examples. Do you take the time to stop and express how blessed you are for a beautiful
Rev. Brenda Dedmon is the retired director of the Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist of Dalton and an avid Roll Tide fan.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Keepers Of The Light
I
by Dorothy Teague
’m a pushover when it comes to anything Irish since
Satan is a Huntsman. 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us to “be
that’s my ancestry. I love the music, the dance, the
watchful, because the devil is a roaring lion, seeking
accent, the culture. So, when I came across a new
someone to devour.” He is darkness and tries to deceive
animated movie called “Riverdance,” I was intrigued.
others, filling their heart and mind with darkness, causing
The story revolves around Keegan, an Irish boy who has
them to be unable to see the truth of Christ. Christians
just lost his grandfather, the lighthouse keeper. Keegan
are keepers of The Light, the Holy Spirit placed within us
was being trained to take care of the lighthouse. Before
when we are saved. He is the light that shines out from us
his death, he warned Keegan to always make sure the
through our words and actions. John 8:12 tells us that Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of Life.” John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” Nothing that Satan throws at us can snuff out the light that Jesus gives. We can be witnesses to a dark world when we have Jesus in our hearts. As the saying goes, “The darker the night, the brighter the light.” As children, we are naturally afraid of the dark, and sometimes as adults, the dark can be intimidating. Like Keegan, we sometimes become rebellious and don’t want to heed warnings to keep the darkness out of
light was lit in order to keep the darkness away and not
our lives. We get lost in the everyday stuff that life becomes
let the Huntsman in. Keegan scoffed and thought it was
and sometimes lose our way from the path we should be
just an old Irish story. Being heartsick after the death
on. 1 Thessalonians 5:5 reminds us that “we are children of
of his grandfather, he refused to mind the warning and
the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the
did not keep the light lit. So, under cover of darkness,
night or to the darkness.” We need to “let our light shine
the Huntsman snuck in and sought to spread darkness
before men that they may see our good works and glorify
everywhere, but was stopped by Keegan and a herd of
the Father” (Matthew 5:16). We must be about the Father’s
magical deer. (There is a journey into a magical place that
business, drawing others to Him through our witness
contains spirit deer, which has its roots in other beliefs that
and testimony. Above all, we must not forget that we are
are not Christian). At the end of the movie, the wise old
“Keepers of The Light!”
was hard for me to miss the parallel to the Christian life.
26 // March 2022
About The Author
deer told Keegan that he was truly a “Keeper of Light.” It Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After completing 31.5 years as a teacher in the Bradley County School System, she is active in her church at Eastanallee Baptist Church where she is a member of the choir and praise team.
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175 Mouse Creek Road NW Cleveland, TN 37312 423.614.3100
Chattanooga
7625 Hamilton Park Drive, Ste 23 Chattanooga, TN 37421 423.553.9211
FEATURED COVER STORY
Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services
A
by Jodi Varnado
lthough we are all a part of
grandparents, aunts, and uncles
two locations in Cleveland, TN,
a community, each one of
have a unique story. It is important
Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation
us is a unique individual.
to tell their story because it is theirs
Services is a full-service funeral
God’s Word speaks of our distinct
alone,” said Greg Rush, Funeral
provider offering flowers,
identity in the Book of Psalms, “Your
Director and General Manager.
monuments, and other merchandise.
eyes saw my unformed body; all the
Greg Rush, following the
Greg Rush and his team facilitate
days ordained for me were written
legacy of his father, continues
memorial services of varying
in your book before one of them
to operate Jim Rush Funeral and
styles and assist families through
came to be” (Psalm 139:16). This
Cremation Services with the same
continued grief support.
verse reminds us that our lives are
family-owned-business principles
sacred, as are our stories. Jim Rush
established more than forty-five
suppress our ability to properly
Funeral and Cremation Services
years ago. Greg Rush, with the
grieve during a time of loss. This
holds this sentiment in the highest
help of his wife, Darla Rush, and
constraint can also limit our ability
regard, helping families create
his brother, Marc Rush, serves our
to celebrate our loved ones in the
ceremonies where life is valued and
community with the reputation of
way we wish. “I want members of
stories are shared. “Our parents,
quality, sincerity, and trust. With
our community to know that they
28 // March 2022
Oftentimes, financial worry can
have a choice! People often think
you plan your event with specialized
specific arrangements. Through
there are limited options due to cost,
accommodations. This important
this pre-planning process, costs of
but we will work with anyone—with
time provides the opportunity to
services and merchandise freeze. This
any budget,” said Rush. “We will
honor the individuality of their
valuable time can be a blessing to
sit down and talk with families,
personality and begin the healing
every member of the family.
regardless of their ability to pay.”
experience for those in attendance.
At Jim Rush Funeral and
As you plan for those you love,
Greg Rush and his valued staff
consider Jim Rush Funeral and
Cremation Services, all families are
understand that the grieving process
Cremation Services today. Their
treated with dignity and respect.
often begins only after a service
locations include 2600 North Ocoee
Greg Rush and his team practice the
has commenced. According to their
St. NW, Cleveland, TN, and 220
belief that everyone deserves service.
website, Dr. Virginia Simpson,
Wildwood, Cleveland, TN. You can
“It isn’t the merchandise that is
Executive Counseling Director,
contact Greg Rush and his family
provided, it is the service given by
works with individuals facing this
at (423)-476-6558 and (423)-472-
our family to the families we serve
universal challenge. Dr. Simpson
4555. Visit their website at www.
that is the most important. We
helps families learn to cope with the
jimrushfuneralhomes.com for more
consider it an honor and a privilege
depth of emotions and experiences
information and resources. “Over
to be able to assist a grieving
that are a part of healthy grieving
the past two years, we have all
family,” said Rush. After serving
through interactive aftercare.
been through a lot, and even today,
forty years in his position, Greg
Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation
we still try to honor requests from
Rush states that he is still learning.
Services encourages families to plan
our families to make them feel
“Humility is a big part of serving
for the future by having the talk of a
comfortable. We are still a very
people, and I’ve learned that you
lifetime (National Funeral Directors
strong community. We can continue
don’t have to stand behind a pulpit
Association). By pre-planning funeral
to move forward with God guiding
to minister to others,” said Rush.
or cremation services, families
and helping us,” said Rush.
Whether you are memorializing
can make end-of-life decisions in
your loved one through a traditional
a peaceful atmosphere. Families
funeral, a patriotic tribute, or a
can access a pre-planning checklist
relaxed gathering, Jim Rush Funeral
and form via their website, which
and Cremation Services can help
individuals can utilize to determine
goodnewscm.com // 29
Gò0dNews for Everyone
On the Road Again
W
by Sandra Gilmore
hen living in East Tennessee, it doesn’t take
Not all the tears along this road were unhappy. Naomi’s
long until a John Muir quote surfaces, jarring
friends formed a welcoming committee for Naomi’s
us to discover something wonderful we’ve
daughter-in-love and blessed her, “All the people who were
overlooked. The embarrassment of neglect is eclipsed by
in the gate, and the elders, said, ‘We are witnesses. May
the joy of realizing something beautiful that’s been on
Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house
our path all along. Mr. Muir validates his quest into these
like Rachel and like Leah, which two built the house of
hills, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it
Israel; and treat you worthily in Ephrathah and be famous in
attached to the rest of the world.”
Bethlehem’” (Ruth 4:11).
We can take a cue from Mr. Muir’s point. Regarding the Bible, when one tugs at a single thing in the Bible, he finds it attached to none other than Christmas! This is the first in a series of articles about connections to Christmas. Stay tuned each month in 2022 for more articles about the unique and often overlooked connections to this sacred event. Our first tug toward Christmas is at a little town called Ephrathah or more specifically, the road connecting Ephrathah Bethlehem as it meanders even farther toward Jerusalem. True to form, this tug leads us across the dusty centuries to Christmas. Nothing changes the world quite like a road. Whether an intercoastal highway or a simple footpath, the landscape and scope of living become connected. Communities exchange philosophies along with produce, and cultures as well as commodities. The Psalmist assures us, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my
It’s no wonder the Christmas story unfolds in Matthew with a quote from Micah, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of
feet and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). Although
Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be
the road passing by Ephrathah mutely carries its travelers,
Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from
the Word spotlights grand events. Through Scripture, we
everlasting” (Micah 5:2).
know King David’s men found the Ark of the Covenant at
God’s people were steeped in the history of this road
Abinadab’s house near this tiny town. With a grand and
from Ephrathah to Jerusalem. The torch of prophecy and
holy procession, David took the Ark back to Jerusalem
the lantern of history shed light on this well-worn pathway.
(Psalm 132:6, 2 Chronicles 1:4). As Benjamin gasped his first
And even today, we’re looking to this road for connections
breaths from the dusty air alongside this road, his mother
to Christmas!
Rachel breathed her last (Genesis 35:19). Centuries later, as Babylonian soldiers forced Rachel’s shattered tribe to captivity (Jeremiah 40:1).
30 // March 2022
About The Author
Jeremiah’s tears would stain this road without recourse
Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website www.sandragilmore.org.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
What’s Your Story?
“W
by Joy Elisabeth Brown
hat’s your story?” is a loaded question that I love
is that He loves you in the middle of your struggle, just as He
to ask because my first step toward hope and
loves you on your best days.
healing was a result of being asked that question.
It was the beginning of my second semester of 11th grade
It would be nice if God would just take the internal struggles away and replace them with positivity, creativity, and
when my uncle died suddenly. He was young, had two kids,
purpose. I have had that thought many times, but sometimes
and was a vital part of our family. With his death, I came
God has a different plan.
face to face with a kind of grief that neither I nor my family had experienced. While his death was not the cause of what I
He commands us to bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2). Allow others to help you bear your burden by sharing with
am about to share with you, it was where my battle with anxiety, depression, and suicide was born. In the weeks to come after his passing, my grief quickly turned inward. Grief turned to worthlessness. Believing that I was worthless led to thoughts of purposelessness. Before I realized it, purposelessness led to hopelessness. Thoughts flooded my head. Thoughts I knew shouldn’t belong; I shouldn’t believe the lies. Yet, the lies soon became my perceived reality. I believed that people would be better off without me. I believed that I brought no value to life, so the only solution was to end it. But then someone asked me the question, “What’s your story?” And I told them. I confessed my grief, my pain, my struggle with life, and the reason for living. In that flash of raw vulnerability, I
them what you are going through. Oftentimes, the first step to
experienced a moment of relief as my silence had been broken.
healing is being heard.
I was heard, and in being heard, I had invited in the possibility of hope. The next few months consisted of speaking my thoughts
Whether you are battling thoughts of anxiety, depression, suicide, or negativity, know this: You are fully known, fully seen, and fully loved by God. He wants you to ask for help and
out loud and realizing that God is greater than my struggle. He
step toward hope. Help may be found in counseling, mediation,
knows and understands my thoughts, and He still loves me.
Scripture, or even rest and exercise. Whatever the case may be,
This was a life-changing truth for me: I am fully known, fully
let someone in to help you find the specific help you need.
seen, and fully loved by God. “O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know
From someone who has been in the pit of hopelessness and felt the weight of anxiety, I am here to tell you that you are not
when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts
alone. You are not too far gone. Hope and healing are available
from afar” (Psalm 139:1-2, 17).
to you.
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
As I was asked, I now ask you… What’s your story?
mind and how that thought affects you. The beautiful reality
32 // March 2022
About The Author
You are not on this journey alone. God knows every struggle you face. He knows every thought that crosses your
Joy Elisabeth Brown is the author of God is Greater Than: When the Struggle is Great, God is Greater. Her personal battle with depression and anxiety ignited a passion to bring awareness of mental health issues to the church—through her writing, speaking, and mental health resources.
HEALTHY
DR. RITA CARR
LOVING &
Matthew 28:16-20
Lord,
LICENSED COUNSELOR & AUTHOR
å
I Surrender Galatians 2:20
Committing to Christ to Overcome Life's Struggles
Rita Carr
HEALTHY & S
Dr. Rita Carr
Counselor/Author The Lord enabled Dr. Carr to begin Hope Unlimited Ministry in 1996 and with greatLicensed excitement it continues today. Dr. Carr has published five books which are the “My Journey Home Series.” These booksSingle are: My Journey Home:inThere Hope Unlimited Ministries serves Parent Families the is Hope for Single Parent Families and Hurting Women, Jesus Christ the Rescuer of ,Wounded Emotions, Jesuscountries. Christ My The Hopeservant/ in Grief and Lord, I Surrender. Chattanooga area with outreach to other By God’s lovingly faithfulness, she is completing a Book Study Guide for adolescents. Dr. Carra also founder is Dr. Ritaand Carr, a licensed counselor providing hosthas experience in years of counseling through various counselingof credentials, education and employment. Her love for Jesus Christ services to these precious families. Dr. Carr is the author ofis exemplified in her service to Single Parent Families and reachingthe lost andHome dying world. “My Journey Series,” for which she gives Jesus Christ Matthew 28:16-20 a hurting, Hope Unlimited Ministries is a ministry for Single mothers and their children. We Christian provide these Single-parent families with all the glory. This series, available at Lifeway Store the spiritual and educational tools needed for Christ-centered living through Lord, and Barnes å & Noble, provides Christ-centered tools through a I Surrender our various programs. Hope Unlimited Ministries services are at no cost to those devotional, a study guide and two books that tell the story of her seeking our services. Also, Hope Unlimited Ministries is an international ministry. å
My Journey Home Series Book 4 Devotional
å
LOVING & JOY
DAILY D ALL YOU CA
Galatians 2:20
own, personal journey as a single parent, including the eternal journey of her423.493.0288 Gentle Giant: Victor Carr (John 3:16). | hopeunlimitedministries.org
Dr. Rita Carr
Hope Unlimited Ministries is a Tax-exempt 501©3 organization. If you would like to make a donation to Hope Unlimited Ministries, your gift will be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made via PayPal at: hopeunlimitedministries.org. Or mailed to: 243 Signal Mountain Road, Suite 101, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37405 or P.O. Box 25546 Chattanooga, Tennessee 37422. Thank you for any donations that you make to Hope Unlimited Ministries.
423.493.0288 hopeunlimitedministries.org Hope Unlimited Ministries serves Single Parent Families in the Committing to Christ to Overcome Life's Struggles
å
Rita Carr
My Journey Home Series Book 4 Devotional
å
Licensed Counselor/Author
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Let Food Be Thy Medicine
W
by Dana Robinson
e have all heard the quote from Hippocrates
and tastes I remember. I can very vividly recall the brilliant
“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy
colors of the fruit as I carefully arranged the vibrant red
food.” Pair that with the Chinese proverb “He
cherries inside yellow rings of golden pineapple. Just
that takes medicine and neglects diet wastes the skills of
sharing this story brings a smile to my face and warmth
the physician,” and you are bound to wonder if you’ll ever
in my heart. I am once again transported to my childhood
enjoy what you eat again.
sitting at the counter in my grandmother’s kitchen.
When my husband, Jamie Robinson, and I founded
My friend Gene shared a similar story of pineapple
Lighthouse Personal Care Homes, we knew that food
upside-down cake being his mother’s favorite. I remember
would be a high priority in our boutique senior living
Gene serving pineapple upside-down cake with a similar
communities. Our mission statement includes creating
nostalgic smile in his mother’s honor at several functions
moments of joy in everything we do. How could we
he hosted. Is there something unique and powerful to this specific dessert, I wonder. It is often requested as a resident favorite in our care homes. As small boutique care homes, we can create menus tailored to our residents’ tastebuds and impactful life experiences. It’s not surprising pineapple upside-down cake makes its way on our menus often. Yes, there are health benefits to eating pineapple. Pineapple is packed full of flavonoids and phenolic acid, as well as bromelain. These antioxidants and enzymes found in pineapple help protect against chronic diseases, cancer, and can reduce pain and swelling. To me, “Let food be thy medicine…” is not limited to just the nutritional benefits of food
promote health with the food we prepare and recognize
but also the power of the food to spark memories and
our natural desire to truly enjoy food? After all, food is one
promote emotional and cognitive support. We can always
of life’s simple pleasures, right?
make healthier ingredient swaps in recipes but let’s not
Food is amazing! It nourishes our body, mind, and
undervalue the connections we have with food on an
soul. Our brains are pretty amazing as well. According
emotional level, especially when it comes to unlocking
to Dr. Lorn Miller, a board-certified neurologist, over
hidden memories and making connections with our seniors
the years we develop emotional memories and many
and those living with dementia.
of these memories revolve around food. Have you ever smelled something or tasted something and it brought
See Dana’s pineapple upside-down cake recipe on our Taste Buds page!
you right back to a special time or place, perhaps your I remember making pineapple upside-down cake with my grandmother as a small child. It wasn’t just the smells
34 // March 2022
About The Author
grandmother’s kitchen or a holiday gathering?
Dana Robinson is a registered nurse and dementia care educator & specialist. She and her husband founded Lighthouse Personal Care Homes with two locations in Dalton, GA—Walnut Creek and Southern Haven. For more information about Dana and her boutique senior living communities visit www.lighthousepch.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Useful Disciple
A
by Eddie Turner
s Christians, we are hated because of who God is.
If you’ve ever tried to blaze your own trail through
As bold as this statement sounds, it should come
the woods, you likely found your clothes covered in twigs,
as no surprise. After all, Jesus assured us that we
thorns, and dirt. You may have even come out with a few
would be. He also told us that this is a good thing. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute
bloody scratches on your arms or legs. If a friend or a neighbor saw you after your trek in the forest, they could
you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of
easily point out what you had been doing. In the same way,
me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in
our association with questionable behavior and worldly
heaven…” (Matthew 5:11-12).
matters affects how others see us. Depending on our life
More and more often, however, God is hated because of who we are. This happens when we associate Him with things He’s not associated with—things like politics. Instead of being seen as mere Christians, we’re left-wing or rightwing Christians who hate each other and slander our country’s leaders. Instead of distancing ourselves from these labels, we defend them, often heatedly. And, the more insistent we become in retaining our association with worldly matters, the less we meet what may be the most important expectation God has for His children. “Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for
choices, we can either be seen as having no blemishes or
honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the
covered in the filth that we often detect on those who make
house, ready for every good work” (2 Timothy 2:21).
little effort to safeguard their character.
As followers of Jesus, we are bearers of the gospel. This
While you and I can’t separate ourselves from the
role belongs to each one of us, and there are countless ways
physical world, we can certainly become separate from
for us to perform it. Some of us are writers, some pastors,
its cultures of sexuality, hostile politics, gossip, and hate
and many of us are called to simply share it among the
speech. In the verse I’ll leave you with, Scripture affirms
people within our family or social circles. Accomplishing
what this world has become and stresses the importance
God’s will, however, is dependent upon how useful we are
that we take great strides toward becoming drastically
to Him. A person who is known for his or her foul mouth,
different than those around us who blend in. There should
for example, may not be useful at all due to their greater
be nothing we aren’t willing to let go of in order to be useful
potential to dishonor God than glorify Him. Everything we
and pleasing to God.
do, say, and fill our minds with can impact our usefulness
“—prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent,
as disciples.
children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked
36 // March 2022
and perverse generation…” (Philippians 2:15).
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Healing Heart
D
by Abdiel Medina
uring my first semester at Lee University, my sister
up my heart to Him. The Warrior King and Psalmist David
and I went to a Christian retreat. Each night they
described it beautifully: “Search me, O God, and know my
had a fun social event, and the last event taking
heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is
place was a Flannel Dance! While students were jamming
any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting”
out in their flannels to music, can you guess where I—the
(Psalm 139:24, NKJV).
energetic nerd and extrovert—was? Admittingly…alone. That night I was battling with emotional and spiritual
When you’re battling struggles or wrestling with sin, being honest to God and asking for help may be
struggles, and my natural reaction was to isolate myself. It doesn’t take a counselor to know that isolating yourself while struggling is not a good idea. In those lone moments, it’s easier to be attacked and manipulated by the enemy’s lies and fall deeper into your struggles. So, I want to emphasize if you are experiencing any battles—emotional, spiritual, physical, etc.—reach out to others! Search for trustworthy adults, whether it be a parent, counselor, teacher, or pastor to talk to. You don’t have to carry your burdens alone, and ignoring your struggles won’t help either. Vulnerability has never been easy for me; however, whenever I’ve opened up,
the first step it may take to experience transformation,
I’ve experienced God’s love, encouragement, and healing in
encouragement, and healing in your life. That was the case
my life. That was the case for me that night at the retreat.
for Moses and the Israelites. In their time of slavery and
I was sitting, entrapped in my personal struggles when
suffering, the Israelites cried out to God for help, and He
suddenly a fellow brother of Christ—Ryan Gambill—
sent Moses to deliver them (Exodus 2:23-5; Exodus 3:10).
walked by and saw me. He asked if he could sit with me,
I pray and hope that you may open up your heart to God,
and he then began a conversation. I was inspired by his
experience His healing and that He may provide you with
testimony, in which he shared his past struggles and gave
fellow brothers and sisters to help carry your burden.
heart on God again, and I received a powerful reminder that I can rest and experience healing in God’s love when I open
38 // March 2022
About The Author
God glory. From our conversation, he helped me focus my Abdiel Medina is currently a writer, runner, and freshman at Lee University. Abdiel is thankful to have God in his life.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
March Winds
A
by Danette Reeves
n old saying is that March comes in like a lion and
and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4). Either
goes out like a lamb. March is the month of hope:
way, this truth is a win/win situation.
trees begin budding, flowers start growing, and
How do we get to the “lacking in nothing” part? It is
gardens are prepared. It reminds us that what was dead in
like a runner preparing for a marathon. They struggle to run
the winter can have new life in the spring. But this life is not
one mile. Then they struggle to run two miles. Then three,
without trials and winds.
then four, and so on and so on. Each mile they conquer
We desire smooth sailing rather than tornados. Who
makes them stronger. They eventually have the strength and
wouldn’t? It is much easier to walk a straight line without the blustery wind blowing one off the mark. There will be winds in our lives, as with the winds in March. Some winds may only trouble us a little, causing leftover autumn leaves to blow into our yards or giving us just a slight chill. Calm winds can move the fragrance of flowers to attract us with their sweet aroma. Calm winds can also bring us cooling relief from the scorching sun. And then there are the gale-force winds that leave us terrorstricken like the disciples in Mark 4:3541. “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” Here’s the truth about winds: They are going to come. We will all have winds in our lives
endurance to run the marathon. As the winds bring a trial
at various times in varying degrees. “Count it all joy, my
to our lives, we walk through it with God, and it produces
brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds” (James
steadfastness. Then another trial comes. And we walk
1:2). There is no “if” but “when.” There is no “one trial” but
through it with God, and it produces more steadfastness.
“trials.” There is no one “type” of trial but “various kinds.”
Our walk with God gets stronger and stronger. The winds
Trust me, my friend. Your boat is going to be rocked by the winds that come. Here’s the outstanding, exciting
can no longer knock us around as much as they did initially. Next time you feel the March winds blow, thank God
truth! Our God can stop any wind just like He did in
for the reminder that He is sovereign even over the winds,
Mark 4:39. “And He awoke and rebuked the wind and
and then remember to walk with Him through every trial
said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be Still!’” Or…He can fulfill His
that comes your way. Be steadfast!
work in our lives. “Count it all joy, my brothers, when testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect
40 // March 2022
About The Author
you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the
Danette Reeves and her husband, Charlie, live in Cleveland, TN. They attend The Church at Grace Point. One of their joys is being Oma and Opa to four grandchildren. Her heart’s desire is to be a student and a teacher of the Word, and a consistent follower of Jesus.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Moments of Joy:
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake by Dana Robinson
Ingredients • 1/2 cup butter or coconut oil • 1 cup raw sugar mixed with 1 tbsp molasses (brown sugar) OR 1 cup coconut sugar • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 9 pineapple rings, canned or fresh • 9 frozen, thawed cherries OR fresh cherries, stems & pits removed • 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour • 1 cup sugar • 1/3 cup butter softened OR coconut oil • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/4 tsp Himalayan salt or sea salt • 3/4 cup pineapple juice or pineapple purée • 1 egg
42 // March 2022
Instructions Preheat oven to 350F. Melt 1/2 cup butter/coconut
oil in 9-inch square pan. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup sugar with molasses until brown sugar forms. Spread brown sugar mixture over melted butter. Drizzle with vanilla extract. Arrange pineapple rings over brown sugar mixture. Place a cherry in the center of each
pineapple ring. Optional to use additional cherries
between pineapple rings. In a separate bowl, combine
remaining ingredients with an electric mixer on low for
30 seconds. Beat on high for 3 minutes, scraping bowl as needed. Pour mixture over pineapple and cherries. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes
out clean. Immediately transfer to a plate by placing the
plate on top of cake and quickly flipping over. Leave cake pan in place for 3-5 minutes to allow brown sugar sauce to drip on top of cake. Remove pan. Enjoy cake warm.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Count on us. For colonoscopy screenings. The American Cancer Society recommends screenings for colon and rectal cancers begin at 45. A colonoscopy is a screening that helps find polyps that can be removed before they become cancerous. It can also identify cancers early, when the odds of successful treatment are highest. From the routine to the unforeseen, count on us.
If you’re 45 or older, talk with your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy.
To find a healthcare provider, call 423.374.6571 For more information, visit StarrRegional.com Enhanced cleaning, mask requirements and social distancing to help keep you safe.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
I’m Not Lucky, I’m Blessed!
W
by Paula Burgner
hen we think about the months leading up to
Sometimes, when we go through trials in life, it is often
spring, we start to hear about four-leaf clovers,
disguised as a blessing that God has for us. So, when you
the luck of the Irish, and different sayings about
start feeling ungrateful and undeserving, remember that the
Irish blessings. This being said, I don’t think that I am lucky,
struggle you feel won’t last forever. It is all about how you
for I know that I am blessed. We are all blessed every day
react through the storm to be able to see how truly blessed
that we wake up, blessed by every breath we take, blessed
you are. During a spring storm, when the sky darkens and
to live in a free country, and blessed to be alive. We are also
the rain falls, at that moment, we feel so down. We do not
blessed by the people that God puts in our path.
realize that we are truly blessed until we see the rainbow.
Waking up early in the springtime and seeing the sunrise reminds me how blessed I am to be able to live another day, and I strive to do my part for the Lord. I feel that spring is God’s way of reminding us how blessed we are and how we can be renewed, just as the grass is renewed each year as it starts to sprout up a new life. The Bible tells us in Song of Solomon 2:12: “The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.” This is the same way we feel when we give all of our burdens to God. He makes us feel refreshed and new. It’s that time of year when the sun is warm shining down on you, but the wind blows cold. It
We need to stop and count our blessings. God often
is summer in the sun and winter in the shade. In March,
shows us in small ways just how blessed we are and how
it feels like winter is trying to hold you back and spring
He can change something so dreary into something so
is pulling you forward. Similar to our struggles in life, we
beautiful. As the Bible says in Song of Solomon 2:11: “For,
may feel like something holds us back and something pulls
lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone.” Our sins
inside of us. This is the same way the devil tries to make you
are forgiven and gone when we ask God to save us. So,
feel defeated and like you can’t go on, yet once you talk to
remember that we are not lucky but blessed. We will never
the Lord and trust in Him, you feel like there is something
be forgotten, as God tells us in Numbers 6:24: “The Lord
that pulls us into Him. That is God’s way of speaking to you
Bless thee, and keep thee.”
going to be okay.
44 // March 2022
About The Author
and letting you know that He is in control. Everything is Paula Burgner is a very strong willed, outgoing, girl who loves working out, and she believes in her heart that you are capable of doing anything that you put your mind to.
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Gò0dNews for Students
How To Be a Christian Nurse in A Secular World by Natalie Emert
I
stumbled upon my calling to be a nurse when I was a
a successful nurse but also how to incorporate my faith in
sophomore in high school. I knew from the second God called
everything I do.
me into nursing that this calling would be more than just a
I hope to carry this knowledge with me as I progress
career. Nursing would enable me to have a profound impact
through my career. I hope it will enable me to have a positive
on others by being an example of God’s love, loving on all of
impact on others. There are several ways in which I can
my patients as God would. Working as a nurse, you encounter
accomplish this, both with my patients and my coworkers. With
people during the best and worst times of their lives. You see
my patients, this can mean asking them if they have a certain
families grieving over the loss of their loved ones. You see patients receiving life-altering diagnoses. You see patients lose their ability to perform tasks they once performed without a second thought. You see parents welcome their first-born child, and you also see parents mourning the unexpected loss of their newborn. All of these experiences provide a unique opportunity to witness to others, whether that be by rejoicing in times of jubilance or providing a comforting touch in times of immense sorrow. To care for our patients during these difficult or exciting times, we must care for them holistically (meaning physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and most importantly, spiritually). Taking care of our patients’ spiritual needs can sometimes take a back-burner position amongst all of their physical needs; however, providing spiritual care can be just as important as addressing physical
religion or belief system that they follow. If they say no, this is
concerns. This concept has been heavily addressed during my
an opportunity where I can ask them if they are interested in
time in the nursing program at Lee University. Lee ensures
learning about God or if they would like me to pray for them.
that all their students have the skills and resources needed
Additionally, I can witness to my patients by ensuring I am not
to properly address our patients’ spiritual needs. Through
only providing the best care I can but also by treating them as
studying at Lee, I have learned how to appropriately ask my
human beings instead of yet another task on my ever-growing
patients if I can pray with them or for them. This skill did not
to-do list. In addition to my patients, I can witness to my
come naturally to me, but it is extremely important and can
coworkers by consistently showing up to work with a positive
provide much-needed comfort for my patients. However, this
and encouraging attitude. While this may not always be easy,
is a skill that may not be adequately addressed at other secular
spending time in the Word and praying can help to ensure that
universities. Had I not attended Lee University, I may not have
I show up to work with a friendly smile on my face. These are
had the same opportunity to grow in my relationship with God
just a few of the ways that I hope to put all that I have learned
and become more comfortable sharing my faith with others.
during my time at Lee University into everyday practice.
I am grateful I get the opportunity to learn in an environment that places the focus on God and teaches me to not only be
46 // March 2022
About The Author
Since my faith is one of the biggest reasons that I chose nursing, Natalie Emert is originally from Knoxville, TN, and is a junior nursing student at Lee University School of Nursing. She has a passion for helping others and hopes to work in the NICU once she graduates college next May.
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Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
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.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
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 Poetry
Your Love Reached Deep by Judy Hood
I wake early of the morning, with you on my mind I think of you, Lord, all the time Looking for your appearance, longing for you to appear There’s no one I love more, there’s no one I hold so dear I hold all your promises, in your word, to get me through There’s no one more Supreme, no Lord, there’s no one like you Your love reaches higher than the stars, in the deepest part of the universe Your love reached into the depths of hell, to break every kind of curse Your love reached into my heart, to cleanse me, and bring me salvation Now you’re preparing a place for me in my new home—my haven Your children look with hope in their eyes Wondering when you’re going to split the skies Then with a mighty trumpet sound, all God’s children will leave the ground Not one saved soul on earth will be found 50 // March 2022
Then all the world will be confound
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Gò0dNews for Family
Speak Life, Speak Future, Speak Hope by Paul McGuire
I
n almost every culture, at least in times past,
Those words give direction. Encourage them to learn
grandparents would speak a blessing over their
and speak God’s Word. Here are two verses I learned
children, importantly, their heritage. In the
before I could even read, that set a pattern in my life:
Scriptures, there are many instances. The words of blessings were considered prophetic, so good words were treasured and revered. We knew of this before our young ones were born,
“Thy word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against Thee” (Ps 119:11). “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, a light unto my path” (Ps 119:105).
so as they came along, I wrote out some things as blessings over them or that I felt were God’s plans for them. More recently, I (and their Nana) have thought more about this practice. What our Father has been showing us is that we must speak not just a blessing, but prophetic words which call to the future, to times ahead as God’s plans emerge. He has shown us characteristics in them which He plans to use. Those may be only faintly visible now, but we must call those things to manifest in the appropriate season. Zechariah was old enough to be the grandfather
Both my parents and my mom’s mother, in
of his little son John. He spoke prophetically the plans
particular, always encouraged me (and my siblings) in
of God over that tiny little boy. Likely, it was not until
this way. What a life-long and fruit-bearing blessing
after his death that John the Baptizer walked out his
this has been for us!
father’s words. “Children are a gift (a heritage) of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). Have you blessed your children? How about their
Please, do this with your family. And speak over other little ones around you; some have no one to do this! Speak Life, the blessing of the Lord, to and over those around you—even to adults. It’s God’s plan
children? Have you spoken Life over them? Do you
for the earth. Speaking His Words establishes the
speak Life over them? God has given us “a future
Kingdom of God in the world. And all who love Life
and a hope.” Do your words reflect those promises?
will benefit. “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, a light
Words matter. Prophecy proclaims the end from the
unto my path.”
to a future assignment. They may be little guys now, but our words of God’s blessing pull them forward.
52 // March 2022
About The Author
beginning. It gives the little ones a target, a goal, a call Paul McGuire has been born again for almost 60 years, and has pursued to hear God’s Voice through all those years. He and his wife Teresa of 49 years are active at Living Word Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. They have two children and five grandchildren.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Good Samaritan Part 1 Luke 10:25-37 and Luke 9:54-56 by Jonathon Wright
T
A Lawyer Questions Luke 10:25-29 his section contains two questions that led to Jesus responding with the parable we call the Good Samaritan. First, the lawyer asks, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” It is important to note that God’s plan of salvation had not been revealed, and Jesus was talking to a Jewish lawyer about the law and inheriting eternal life. In verses 26-29, Jesus wisely asks, what is in the law, and how do you understand it? The lawyer replied, “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus answered, “Do this, and you will live.” Jesus had no sooner gotten these words out of His mouth when the man asked the second question, “Who is my neighbor?” His question was important for obvious reasons.
54 // March 2022
Closing Thoughts Jesus responded with the story of the Good Samaritan and was trying to heal the cultural barriers of hatred between Jews and Samaritans. Christ wanted him to extend mercy and care for people and calls us to do the same. We all need grace, mercy, and a Savior. We cannot save ourselves. Luke 10:29 states the lawyer was trying to justify himself, but Jesus was seeking to change his heart. It is the same for us today. I have many questions about this man. Did he later accept the Gospel? Did the parable help him understand why the Gospel would go not only to the Jews but Samaria and the rest of the world? Did he later have a change of heart? I wish we could go back in time to see what happened to this man!
About The Author
Jews And Samaritans Jews and Samaritans had a history of difficulty and controversy. Luke 9:54-56 described Jesus having problems when He tried to pass through Samaria. The Disciples wanted to call fire down from heaven like Elijah. Jesus quickly rebuked them and said He came to save lives, not destroy them. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah called fire down from heaven to devour 300 prophets of Baal when idolatry had consumed Samaria and the nation of Israel. A few years before this, Israel split. Ten tribes established Samaria as their capital, while Judah and Benjamin chose Jerusalem. See 1 Kings Chapters 12-18 for background. The animosity continued to grow. Nehemiah 4:12 describes how Sanballat, another Samaritan, publicly insulted those rebuilding the city walls of Jerusalem. However, many Samaritans still cared about God and later asked to help rebuild the Temple but were denied. Ezra 4 records how these enemies of Judah and Benjamin opposed the rebuilding of the Temple and sent a letter of protest to the King.
Jonathon Wright currently lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and has been a member of the Church of God for about twenty years. He is a graduate of Lee University and Beacon University where he earned a BA and MA in Biblical Studies. He loves studying the Bible and has done so for over thirty years, but only now has God given him a desire and the opportunity to be a writer. He is currently beginning the process of writing a book on Genesis entitled, God’s Good Prophetic Plan: From Beginning to End.
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