GPS 4th Quarter 2016

October.November.December 2016 Edition

WHAT IF... 4

DIVINE APPOINTMENT

10

IPHC Women’s Publication

FAMILY TRADITIONS 24 20

The Heart Wounds

6

Her Purpose To Know God Personally

12

Metro World Christmas Stockings

14

22

Greatness

Time to Dance

16

26

Don’t Mess With His Greatness

Responsibility Self-Care

Triumph over Tragedy

Shine

Fireflies and Holiness

Designer: Lindsey Snider, Kaleigh Bishop Photo Credits: Fotolia, Brittany Woodward, Marysol Martinez, Brenda Grasty, Karianne Hamilton, Becky Shirey, Raquel Guiterrez, Hallie Brown, Irvina Parker

- GPS 2 -

A Note From Sam Samantha Snipes

Director IPHC Women’s Ministries Ssnipes@iphc.org

“We are fully Ignited with God’s love.”

My original intention for this edition was focused on the Ignite theme and Ezekiel, when dead bones come to life, but that was derailed by a powerful devotion with the Lord. There will be more to come on “Ignite” next year. For now, let’s go down the tracks of my devotion and allow the Spirit of God to make adjustments to our lives and tracks. Prepare to experience the power of His presence activated in our lives for His glory!

! s U h t i w t c e n n o C

Find out all the latest updates and announcements through social media

IPHC WOMEN’S MINISTRIES DEPARTMENT EMAIL: women@iphc.org PHONE: 405-792-7132 www.facebook.com/iphcwomen ADDRESS: P.O. Box 12609 Oklahoma City, OK 73157 www.twitter.com/iphcwm www.pinterest.com/iphcwm

- GPS 3 -

WHAT IF...

- GPS 4 -

H

ow often do we intentionally sit and wonder, “What If…”? Do we dream and then leave the “wonder” never to revisit it in our lifetime? Or do we say, “WHAT IF…” in a loud voice that wakes us up out of a stupor knowing that the “what if…” is meant to be for us? If the phrase pricked our hearts and doesn’t seem to let go, it means that there is a reason for our inability to let it go. We often refute it and say, “If Only…” If only I had time, if only I had enough money, if only my children were older, or if only I had more connections or information. You can fill in the blanks. The “If only…” will steal the “What If…” if we let it. It will be a loss that we feel and do not understand why. We didn’t actually experience it in our reality, but it was a thought and idea with which we connected.

That connection became a part of us for that moment and left its mark on our hearts. Philippians 3:14 (KSV) urges us to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

What if I tell you that the connection does not have to be lost? It may involve a little effort and work but it can take you to the destination that you desire. It will take more than intention.

It will take action.

Feel the prick of that idea or thought. Does it prompt you to explore it? Putting it off for a later time is a derailment into a rut of intention with no action. Without action, there are no results. God could have planned and thought about the redemption of His people. But if He didn’t send His Son, it wouldn’t have occurred. The thought would have begun and ended within Him and we would not be experiencing life redeemed and filled by His Spirit. Big results from one action. Yes, this was a God-sized action. But this is what He desires of us. To take action is to be a reflection of Him. We are called to reflect the source. Our source, our God, moves to create what is in His heart and mind. Act 17:38 says, “In Him we live and move and have our being.” If that is the case, let’s take action together!

Now, hopefully you have your idea in mind. What happened in, maybe, your stomach? Was there a feeling of fear or inadequacy? Ok, then. Let’s take this out of the closet and call it what it is. Why do we choose inaction over our heart’s desire? Fear wrapped up in all its fancy descriptive words. We can make excuses and rationalize but what is it really that is stopping us in our tracks? Action is derailed in the mind before it even hits the road. There is no coming back from this derailment unless it is addressed and a track is made for it to safely go on.

Let’s talk about tracks for a moment - life tracks. Tracks are necessary for life to be what you envision in your mind. There is a track for family and one for friends, a track for ministry, a

track for business, and for personal development. Then there is our primary track for relationship with God. Have we made the track large enough to capitalize on the momentum and energy this track should contain? Is there time and devotion sufficient to take us to eternity? Our time with Him inspires and builds a foundation for all of the other tracks. It is the one that gives the foundation to create upon. Our track with God prepares us for the intricate details that could become overwhelming in life.

Our track with God prepares us for the intricate details that could become overwhelming in life.

He is the master builder and creator. This track should be the biggest, straightest and strongest. Are we making room for Him in our lives, or is this track an afterthought, after the busy day when we grapple with what we have or have not done? Do we then go to Him and ask, “what do I do now?” He desires to build with us. With that in mind, fear and inadequacy must take a back seat because we are connected to the ultimate creator.

Our weaknesses become strengths when we realize that we don’t have it all and that is ok. We know One who does.

Now, with this overcoming mentality in mind, action is necessary. Remember, no Jesus, no redemption. No implementation, no life to that idea or thought. Begin building the tracks, make time and lay the foundation for ideas to be cultivated. If you will build them, it will make the difference you desire. I am laying tracks right now and I am excited to see the difference they will make!

Please let us know the differences and ideas that you see come to life as you lay down new tracks or make larger tracks.

Let’s do this together!

Samantha Snipes

Director IPHC Women’s Ministries Ssnipes@iphc.org

- GPS 5 -

HER PURPOSE

- GPS 6 -

“S

he knew that she was formed by God’s hands, dreamed up in His heart, and placed in this world for a purpose.” -Unknown “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NIV).

How many times have we heard this verse, and yet still questioned God about our purpose? We often wonder what we were created for, and in the depths of our souls we long to make a difference in this world. We want to be reassured that God designed us, specifically for a purpose, and we want that purpose to be defined. Well, it’s quite simple, yet sometimes we just need to be reminded. Here is our purpose— to know God personally and to make His name known to the ends of the earth in all seasons of life.

Exodus 9:16 says, “But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth” (NIV).

God’s greater purpose must always be on the forefront of our minds. Here is the amazing thing about

God; the way in which we fulfill this purpose will never look exactly like another.

One of the secrets to finding your specific purpose is understanding your season of life. Each season will have its own unique demands, opportunities, blessings, and even hardships, which ultimately play a part in how God will use you for His Kingdom. I love that God is continually stretching us and taking us to different heights. Let’s love and serve Him without borders!

If you and I fully commit ourselves to knowing Jesus Christ so deeply that we are willing to step outside of our comfort zone to make His name known upon this earth, we can’t get lost. God’s purpose is fulfilled when we are

willing to completely surrender everything to Him and just say yes!

Erica Campbell

Next Gen Board Member IPHC Women’s Ministries

Here is our purpose— to know God personally and to make His name known to the ends of the earth in all seasons of life.

- GPS 7 -

- Leader’s- GPS GPS 8 8 --

- GPS 9 -

Divine Appointment - GPS 10 -

M

eeting people in the weirdest of places has always been fascinating to me; I consider these to be “divine appointments”. The Lord sets them up for me this way just to remind me that HE is in charge and all is well- at least that is how I see it.

So was the case a couple of months ago. Having been invited to attend the IPHC Women’s Conference by my dear friend Sam, I went expecting to hear a fresh word from the Lord. I was also excited about hearing the keynote speaker, Maria Durso.

You see a couple weeks earlier I had contacted her offices and requested copies of her book, “From your Head to your Heart” for the Royal Home Ministries Book Club. Maria’s ministry blessed our girls with copies of her book and thus began our glorious book club. For days the girls read and connected with the pages and stories from the book. I started to see a change after every book club Tuesday. A sense of, “I can make it”, began to resonate throughout our book club discussion. Everything inside of me wanted to ask Maris to come visit our campus and sit in on one of our book club sessions. Can you imagine book club Tuesday with the author? WOW! This was my prayer, “Lord, make a way for Maria to come to Falcon Children’s Home”.

After lunch on Saturday at the conference, I slipped away to the bathroom- as I washed my hands and freshened my lipstick- in walks Maria Durso! There was no one else in the bathroom but us; this was my “divine appointment”. I hurried and thanked her for the books she sent us and informed her of the life changing experiences occurring through our

book club. In a moments time we had set a date for her visit to Falcon Children’s Home; she wanted to meet the Royal Home Girls in person and share in our book club. My prayer had been answered, “Book Club with the Author”. On September 6th we had a glorious service at Falcon Children’s Home where Maria led in a powerful preaching that healed and restored the lives of many of our students.

Royal Home Ministries exists because of strange encounters like these. Pastor Marvin and Joyce Whitefield started this journey twenty four years ago dedicated to saving the life of the unborn child. Today Royal Home Ministries can house twelve pregnant teenage girls and eighteen mothers and their babies; the vision does not stop here!

Marysol Martinez

Marysol serves as the Director of Royal Home Ministries (RHM) at Falcon Children’s Home & Family Services. She is a Licensed Minister and has served as a teacher, a Youth Pastor and in Foreign Missions. In her spare time she likes to read, shop for shoes and handbags, travel, and spend time with her husband, Sergeant First Class Carlos Martinez, and two children.

- GPS 11 -

M

Metro World Child

etro World Child is a global, faith-based, humanitarian organization that is dedicated to serving the inner-city children throughout New York City and various urban centers around the world. Metro serves over 150,000 children each week with after school programs, Sunday School services, child sponsorships, special programs, and personal home visits. With headquarters in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, Metro World Child currently operates programs at more than 200 sites in New York City, as well as in the Philippines, Romania, South Africa, Kenya, and India. Founded by Pastor Bill Wilson in 1980, Metro has worked to rescue hurting children and offer a message of salvation and love that encourages them to stay in school, away from gangs and other destructive or criminal behaviors. Metro meets both spiritual and physical needs through long-term one-on-one relationships, mentorship, child sponsorship, and visitation.

Mission & Vision: To see leaders, teachers and pastors raised up out of the streets of the cities worldwide, so they in turn will minister to the next generation.

Metro World Child is committed to providing hope and building futures for children living in adverse conditions in metropolitan areas around the world. Whether faced with the physical effects of poverty or the dangers of gangs, violence, abuse, and hopelessness, we want to see childrens’ lives placed on a new path through the life-changing love of Christ. By meeting children where they are, personally investing in their lives, and presenting the Gospel in a fun, accessible way, we believe that we can build foundations that lead to hope, a future, and better lives for children around the world.

Many inner-city children do not know what it’s like to receive something handmade with love and care, but Metro World Child makes sure that kids know what this is like through our Christmas Stocking Project. You can be a part of providing a Christmas Stocking for a child by hand making one or supporting the project financially.

Making Christmas Stockings are a great outreach for individuals or group projects. Throughout the year, volunteers make stockings from the pattern provided and fill them with goodies for boys and girls. The pattern provides sewing specifications as well as information on what items to stuff into your stockings. All stockings must arrive before November 24th each year.

If you are not able to make or send a filled Christmas stocking, you may also participate by making a contribution to this project. Just $10.00 provides a child with a stocking that could be filled with an answer to the simplest of prayers – a toy car, a hair barrette, or even a toothbrush.

Patsy Deese

Secretary IPHC Women’s Ministries

- GPS 12 -

Stocking Project Metro World Child

Though not required, you and your kids can decorate the outside of the stockings.

Get together with the family and turn your Christmas project into an outreach opportunity for you and the kids! Metro World Child (Metro Ministries) needs your help creating stockings that are filled with toys or a $10 donation.

Visit iphc.org/women for further details.

Take the kids along to choose a green felt for boys and a red felt for girls.

Get mom and grandma together to sew the felt pieces together.

Download your stocking pattern.

Find it online, iphc.org/women.

Don’t Mess with His

Greatness

Dr. Brenda Grasty

Assistant Director IPHC Women’s Ministries

- GPS 14 -

T

here were many of you who joined us at The Cove for our National IPHC Ignite Conference. One of our special guests was Marysol Martinez, the new director of the Royal Home located at Falcon Children’s Home. As Marysol addressed the Women’s Ministries Directors, she told us that a friend had advised her that all the ladies at the conference would be dressed up and so she should be as well. Following her friend’s advice, Marysol went shopping and bought a new outfit, which was gorgeous, by the way (see photo – Marysol is front row, 2nd from right), and she was so beautiful when she arrived for our meeting on Saturday afternoon. But upon arrival, she quickly realized that most of us wore jeans, crops, or whatever was comfortable for the day’s activities, and she told us about her efforts to be dressed properly on the advice of her friend. “Oh well”, she said, “now I have a new outfit!”

Haven’t we all gone through that same ordeal in preparing to attend certain events? Absolutely … we’re constantly asking about dress codes for this retreat or that conference … definitely nothing wrong with that. But while thinking about this, the Holy Spirit reminded me of Satan’s tool of comparison, not in our external appearance, but in our internal determinations. I thought about Psalm 139:14 which says “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works, my soul knows it very well ” (ESV), and I realized that comparison may at times influence our fashion choices, which is okay, but the real issue is spiritual comparison, which can influence us to stray from our “intended uniqueness” in divine creation.

Of course, this subject has to do with our emotional and mental health; which are greatly affected by what we see, hear and experience. Facebook and social media are filled with an accentuation of a culture of comparison, and a false message that our monotonous, boring lives are so lacking compared to others whose lives seem to be awesomely exciting all the time. We see a photo on Facebook of someone eating at a five star restaurant and suddenly realize that the tuna sandwich we were enjoying so much is not really that delicious after all. Family photos on Pinterest boards or on Instagram of immaculate homes and vacations in Paris, viewed with a bed head, while in frumpy sweat pants, a house that needs a good cleaning, and nails that haven’t seen a salon in far too long, impress upon us our inadequacies in comparison.

But comparison is the devil’s tool to undermine our confidence and contentment with who God created us to be and with our present circumstances.

This magnifies our insecurities and the inadequacies of our “behind-the-scenes” lives viewed in comparison with the “main highlights” of the lives of others. If we allow Satan to use comparison to get us stuck with a measuring stick, it changes the canvas upon which God wants to display His greatest work … His creation! We are affected in our confidence, in our emotions, in our thinking, and ultimately, in our overall health. All of this will then hinder us walking out our individual purpose and calling!

Jesus said to Peter when he compared his life with John’s, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?” (John 21:22) In other words, it’s none of

your business, stop comparing! That doesn’t mean everything will be easy … No, Satan will make sure that you have opposition, but don’t worry or become side-tracked by that. Exodus 14:14 tells us, “God will fight your battles, and you, you keep your mouth shut” (Message). If we let go of comparison and take hold of our uniquely fashioned, pre-ordained, God-given talents and abilities, which we are specifically equipped by God to do, then everything He has called you to do and go through will accomplish His will for your life.

How do we do it? With heart vision, hearing from God, spending time in communion with Him, allowing His love and purposes to be ignited in us, and then walking out those purposes … doing it with confidence in the knowledge that we are exactly the fearfully and wonderfully created woman of God that He wants us to be. That brings joy, peace, happiness and contentment to our lives, which promotes mental and emotional health!

But, hey, ladies, any excuse for a new outfit, right? So … go ahead and buy that new outfit … it looks great on you!

But don’t feel like it’s a must … and don’t compare yourself to anyone else. You are exactly the person

God created you to be “for such a time as this”!

- GPS 15 -

The RESPONSIBILITY of SELF CARE - GPS 16 -

I

love the holidays.

And when I say I love the holidays, what I’m really saying is, I am one of those people.

I bust out my Christmas music in September, I start wearing boots and sweaters before it even makes sense, and I consider the annual return of all things pumpkin a mini celebration in itself.

I. Love. The. Holidays.

And yet every November, despite my early bird excitement, Thanksgiving sneaks in and catches me overwhelmed, overworked, and stressed beyond my limits. By the time I’m sitting down to my turkey and sweet potatoes, I’m in such a frazzled state I can barely muster up more than a trite response to the annual resounding question: What are you thankful for?

Our culture is obsessed with image, and as a young mom I confess I’ve bought into the hype of creating a holiday “experience” for my children. Gone are the days of simply spending Thanksgiving together as a family. Now the name of the game is bigger, better, and more Instagram-worthy.

But I’ve recently started to understand that working myself to exhaustion and failing to create space for gratitude are not just poor decisions for myself. They are a gross mishandling of opportunities to teach my children powerful lessons - lessons in things like provision, grace, thankfulness, and the responsibility of self-care.

We all want to be good parents. Actually, I think it’s safe to say we all want to be great parents. But spiritual parenting is not an isolated practice - it’s the byproduct of spiritual stewardship.

First and foremost, I am a spiritual individual. It is my responsibility to practice self-care for my body, mind, heart, and soul, especially during the busiest and most stressful time of the year. Because if I’m not feeding my own

spiritual hunger, I have no resources to offer my hungry children.

And it’s hard to express gratitude when your spirit is starving.

Gratitude needs room to grow, needs space to breathe and develop organically. Yes, it’s important to count our blessings and to “practice” attitudes of thankfulness, but I’m slowly learning that gratitude is so much more than an exercise or a feeling.

Gratitude is a lifestyle, and our daily actions determine whether we will sow and reap its fruit in our lives.

Do I want to be full of His grace and wisdom so that those treasures can overflow to my children? Then it’s my responsibility to spend time in His Word and His presence. Do I want to exude the peace of Christ when the rest of the culture is thrown

into holiday chaos? Then it’s my responsibility to say “no” to commercialism, packed schedules, and unrealistic expectations. Do I want to enjoy this brief season with my family and grab hold of all the beauty and truth it so graciously offers?

Then it’s my responsibility to practice self-care so that I am rested and ready to see opportunities for instruction with clear and attentive eyes.

When we practice the responsibility of self-care, we’re telling our children, “I’m grateful for this body God gave me, grateful for this need for rest. Because my weaknesses remind me that He alone is sufficient, and when I choose to take care of myself, I’m making way for Him to come in and sustain me through the power of His Spirit.”

So this year I’m doing Thanksgiving a little differently.

I’m choosing to slow down, savor the simple joys, spend less money, and give myself the grace, patience, and self-care I so desperately need. I used to feel guilty for even

entertaining the notion that my own needs were just as important as my children’s. But I realize now that taking care of myself is not just a luxury - it’s an essential responsibility on every spiritual parent’s journey to gratitude.

And my prayer is that on Thanksgiving afternoon, when I finally sit down to my turkey and sweet potatoes, my children won’t be thinking, “Wow, Mom really let things nosedive this year.”

I pray they’ll be thinking, “Wow, Mom seems different this year. She seems calm and peaceful and genuinely full of joy.”

And they will be grateful.

Brittany Woodward

Brittany is a born-and-bred Oklahoman living in the heart of Tornado Alley with her husband and two young daughters. She is a homeschooling mama by day, an aspiring picture book author by night, and a lover of literature, worship, fitness, The Office, and coffee (give her all the coffee). You can find Brittany at her blog, Letters to My Littles, and on Facebook.

- GPS 17 -

- Leader’s GPS 18 -

- GPS 19 -

A WOUNDED HEART

- GPS 20 -

L

ife not always easy. Let’s just face it, life can be downright messy! Tragedy happens. Disease takes over.

Disappointment sets in. Kids make irresponsible choices. Promises are broken. Hurts linger. Families are estranged. I have come to the conclusion, that everyone we meet is facing some kind of an issue. I have also realized that hurting people, hurt people. Likewise, the Bible is certainly filled with example upon example of people facing hardships.

In the midst of living the everyday life in this everyday world, we have ample opportunity to let our hearts become wounded. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if as we approach the holiday season we could see hearts healed and families restored?

My optimistic spirit leads me to believe that everyone enjoys the holiday season. Sad, but not true.

Paul shares with us in Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (KJV). I believe that He is encouraging us to be thankful even in the midst of adversity. How about if we open our hearts and minister to those people with wounded hearts?

I remember rushing my 5th grader to urgent care after a football injury. He could walk and talk, but his arm was distorted. The scripture says, rejoice, pray and give thanks! As I was driving, I was praying out loud over him. It went something like this, “Lord, thank you that Evan is breathing. Thank you, Lord, that he can walk and understand what I am saying. Thank you that you’re guiding us to urgent care. Father, we thank you for

the doctors that are going to help him!” As I came to a stop sign, Evan yelled, “Don’t stop!” I quickly said “Buddy, I have to stop it’s a stop sign.” He yelled again, “No, don’t stop praying!”

In retrospect, that incident was minor compared to some of life’s other issues. However, the Biblical principles ring true for every disheartening situation: rejoice, pray, and give thanks!

Why Give Thanks?

1. Keeps us continually aware of His presence 2. Motivates us to look for His purpose 3. Essential in our rejoicing 4. Helps us displace our anxiety with peace 5. Teaches us to focus on Him instead of the circumstances God is forever faithful. His Word is evident of the fact.

Sometimes, we just get lost in the busyness of life and need that reminder. We must slowdown from the hustle and bustle of everyday living. I want to encourage you to put into practice: rejoicing, praying and giving thanks. Speak of it while visiting with friends, while sitting around your dinner table, and while ministering to others. Let’s be the healing balm that can minister to those with wounded hearts!

Michelle Drake

Board Member IPHC Women’s Ministries

DownTIME Michelle’s Book Recommendations How to Really Love Your Adult Child Building a healthy relationship in a changing world.

When Our Grown Kids Disappoint Us Letting Go of Their Problems, Loving Them Anyway, and Getting On With Our Lives

- GPS 21 -

A Time to Dance

- GPS 22 -

W

hen I became a parent, I started thinking about conversations over the course of my child’s life that I dreaded discussing. I felt I would be ready to talk to my child about the weather, why her little brother annoys her, or the scientific reasons as to why her popsicles melt in the summertime, but when it came to those tough conversations about bullying, death, sex, etc.; I could already feel my words freezing up in my throat like that giant popsicle, without the melting.

For the first four years of my daughter’s life my husband and I managed to skate by any hard conversations with her.

Life handed us some hard times, but she was always too young to notice what was happening. I knew our time would come, though; and I would have to think of something spiritual and motherly to tell her.

Our temporary mourning brought about a lifetime of etneral dancing.

Our first tough conversation came on a cool spring evening as we ate ice cream sandwiches on our driveway. Her great grandmother had recently passed away and I could sense for several days that a conversation was going to happen and needed to happen. As my husband and I enjoyed our yummy, fully loaded with sugar ice cream treats, my daughter began asking us questions about where her great grandmother was. I could already feel myself trying to navigate ahead of her to be able to give adequate answers. Despite all the child psychology books I had read or other parents I had talked to about this subject, it was still slightly intimidating to have a 4yr old ask me these questions.

There was something unique about that evening, though.

We were having to work through this tough time in her life but I felt like there was more to this event. God had a purpose in it.

The purpose of this specific event wasn’t necessarily to teach my daughter about death. We were finding that our tough conversation was opening a door of salvation for our daughter.

For several months prior to her great grandmother’s death, our daughter would talk to us about Jesus dying on the cross and how he was now alive. In each conversation we were pur-

poseful to tell her about the gift of salvation and that it would be her choice to ask Jesus into her heart if she chose to do that one day. We made sure that she knew it was her decision, not Daddy and Mommy’s decision. Each time we had that conversation we could always tell her little wheels were spinning.

She would typically end the conversation with “I might like to do that one day”.

That day finally came. It came out of a tragedy that Satan meant for evil. Satan would have loved to have seen our little girl’s heart tragically impacted by that death. Yet God in all His glory presented more for His child.

A few weeks after that conversation in the driveway, our little girl announced from the backseat of the car that she wanted to ask Jesus into her heart. She wanted to be in Heaven with her great grandmother some day. She wanted to ask Jesus in her heart just like her great grandmother had done so many years ago.

We had the amazing privilege as parents to lead our daughter to the Lord. As my husband and I prayed with her, I couldn’t help but thank the Lord for bringing such great triumph out of tragedy. We got to play a part in our little girl inviting Jesus into her heart. We danced with joy for this monumental moment in her life. I was reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NAS) “[There is] a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance”. Our temporary mourning brought about a lifetime of eternal dancing.

Catch articles like this and more in HomeFront magazine! iphc.org/homefront

Lindsey Snider

Lindsey was born and raised in Oklahoma. She is currently serving on the IPHC Children’s Ministry Team and as a Creative Specialist for Discipleship Ministries.

Lindsey loves to travel with her husband, blow bubbles with her daughter, snuggle her new little boy, and chase their dog, Frisco.

- GPS 23 -

The holidays are a special time when family come together to celebrate the reasons for the seasons.

We asked the question “What are some family traditions that you celebrate during the holidays?”

BECKY SHIREY

One family tradition

my husband, Lou, and I established early in his military career was attending Christmas Eve service. The service of Carols, Scripture, and candlelight became a part of my children’s growing up years and our family celebration. Even with multiple services offered, the chapel was always standing room only. One of our favorite memories took place in Belgium. On Christmas Eve, Christians from various nations lined up to attend the service taking place in their language.

More than any other place we lived, the multiple services taking place simultaneously in many languages, represented the abiding truth that Christ came for all people.

- WIN Prayer Ministry

RAQUEL GUTIERREZ

Our family tradition has been helping mom make tamales, buñuelos and champurrado. We spend that day reunited with the whole family as we sing together and play games. My dad usually give us a word from the Lord and afterwards we all pray and give thanks. We do small gifts or gift exchanges mostly for the kids. Our parents never emphasized on the gifts. I don’t remember getting a wrapped Christmas gift from them and in that tradition we also want our kids to keep the emphasis on Christ. He is the reason of the season!

- Women’s Dir., West Coast Hispanic

HALLIE BROWN

One thing that was very

important to my husband and me was that our children would wake up in their own beds on Christmas Morning.

In order to do this, we would travel at Thanksgiving and stay close to home at Christmas.

During Thanksgiving we go as a family on a trip – usually to Branson, MO. We rent a condo or cabin where we can still cook. We have a great time together and I still cook the traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Our family looks forward to this time together and it gives us time away from everyday life to be thankful for all that God has blessed us with. Thanksgiving has always been one of those holidays that we truly love and look forward to!

- Discipleship Dir., Heartland

- GPS 24 -

- Leader’s GPS 25 -

- GPS 26 -

A

s October gives way to cooler temperatures and the beginning of school, I have a feeling that a lot of you have been asking, “where did summer go?” Or perhaps, you have been reliving some of the highlights of your summer with the kids. I have to tell you that my summer of 2016 hardly resembled the carefree summers of my childhood (that I remember now mostly in bits and pieces). As I packed the mason jars for the move to our new home, I had vivid flashbacks of chasing fireflies on warm summer evenings in Virginia.

We would poke holes in the lids of those jars (that my mother actually used for canning) and then chase the fireflies, aka lightning bugs, hoping to capture the light. I can remember running back and forth, even up and down hillsides in pursuit of those infamous flashes of light. The energy that we expended in that pursuit was pretty intense at times, and we did it night after night. It became a way of life for that season of time.

This year’s logo for Girls’ Ministries Week and the theme for this new school year captures the essence of those memories. If we were lucky enough to catch any of those lightning bugs, we would place them in the jar and then watch the light show up close and personal. It was mesmerizing to watch the light that would shine from within. I honestly cannot remember trying to figure out what caused that glow (although I am sure my science crazy sister, Rebecca, did). I simply remember being drawn to it.

As I began developing the theme, Shine: Inside Out, I went back to the books (okay, the internet) to learn more about the process of the firefly’s glow. What I found was that the light produced by fireflies is a process called bioluminescence. Fireflies contain an organic compound in their abdomens called luciferin. As air rushes into the abdomen, it reacts with the luciferin.

A chemical reaction gives off that familiar glow. This is a pretty fascinating phenomenon.

As I prepared this year’s resources, I naturally drew several parallels to my lightning bug experiences as a child with my relationship to God. The IPHC study on this year’s core value of holiness has equated His holiness with light. The chemi-

cal reaction that takes place in the firefly is without question part of God’s marvelous, and sometimes mysterious creation. I stand in awe of the beauty of this earth and its wildlife. Even greater than that, however, is His creation of mankind and His purpose for us. We were created in His image to bring glory and honor to Him. Unfortunately, the sin of man brought darkness, but in His great love for us, He provided a way of redemption.

The denominational study on holiness started out with the focus on the fact that God is our Source! The second phase focused on Illuminate. He fills us (illuminates us) with His holi-

ness as we allow Jesus Christ to do the transforming work of illumination. As we strive to be more like Christ in everything we think, say, and do, the process is set in a way that creates the glow. Just as the luciferin interacts with the air that enters the firefly, as we allow the cleaning to take place within our hearts and minds, the glow of holiness is produced –just like our Father!

The light that you and I can produce is far more powerful than the glow of the firefly that dies out quickly. When we pursue Christ, we radiate a light that can change lives!

We must pursue (chase) holiness with the same energy and vigor that we chased fireflies, friends, or whatever it was that we chased relentlessly as children. The first step, obviously, is accepting Christ as our Lord and Savior. The blood of Jesus covered our sins at Calvary, but we must confess our sins and invite Him into our lives. When we invite Jesus Christ to reign completely, the convicting power of the Holy Spirit creates a holy glow. Then as we chase after Him on a daily basis, our glow grows stronger and brighter.

I could list many scriptures that call us to holiness, and many others that give us guidance in that journey. Hebrews 12:14 makes the strongest call for holiness when it says “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord” (NIV). My ultimate goal is to see my Lord face to face at the end of my journey. I can think of no better way to heed the challenge of that verse than by living out our Girls’ Ministries code which comes straight from Philippians 4:8. “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (KJV) When the thought process is scrutinized by these guidelines, the heart will be properly aligned and holiness will be the end result. “Above all else,” Proverbs 4:23 challenges us, “guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”

This is how we can truly shine from the inside out!

Irvina Parker

iparker@iphc.org Director IPHC Girls’ Ministries

- GPS 27 -

TOOLS for the FAMILY HomeFront Magazine

>>QUESTION

As a parent, I want to become a better spiritual leader in my home. As I jump into that role, what are some ideas I can do with my family that the kids won’t moan and groan over? >>ANSWER by Children’s Ministries Consultant, Dr. Ellen Moore Just the fact that you desire to be more of a spiritual leader is a huge step in the right direction! It’s It is exactly the way in which God intended the homeit to work.

As wives and moms, we have an important role in our homes and in the spiritual development of our children. In Deuteronomy, God tells youus as a parents parent to talk about the things of God Him “when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” Investing in, and nurturing the spiritual health of our children doesn’t does not have to be a big production or something the kids dread., This it can be talking about a particular verse over breakfast, worshipping our Creator as you take a walk or playing at the park, having a bedtime conversation about the ways thathow God was with them during the day, or andby telling them about how God was with you,. or andWe can also by praying on the way to school that He will protect us youeveryone all and use us you as part of His big plan. As we fervently pray and intentionally invest in relationships with our children, they will come to know and accept our God will be theiras their God.

Send your questions to kids@iphc.org!

IPHC Discipleship Ministries is excited to partner with Homefront Magazine, a digital and/or printed magazine full of articles, ideas, and encouragement for parents, grandparents, and anyone with opportunities for influencing kids.

Each magazine is divided into two sections: Family Time and Inspire, Equip, Support.

Family Time articles are created to equip parents to engage with their children on a weekly basis.- striving to make each gathering unique and remembering to have fun!

Inspire, Equip, and Support articles are parenting stories, devotions, and ideas to encourage parents as they take on the role of the spiritual leader of their children’s faith.

This is a FREE RESOURCE for the entire IPHC church family.

To download this free resource, go to iphc.org/homefront

- GPS 28 -

at home

withMARYSOL MARTINEZ with MARYSOL MARTINEZ She currently resides in NC with her wonderful husband Sergeant First Class CarlosMarysol!

Martinez, who currently serves Meet Marysol serves as the in the United States Army and her two Director of Royal Home Ministries amazing children Mia, a sophomore at (RHM) Falcon Children’s Home Libertyat University and Charlie, a junior high school.

She In enjoys reading, car&inFamily Services. her spare time ing for her elderly mother, and spendshe likes to read, shop for shoes ing time with her family. Please help us and handbags, travel, and spend welcome Marysol to the IPHC Family! time with her husband, Sergeant First Class Carlos Martinez, and two children. Welcome Marysol!

Items You Will Find In My Purse:

Favorite Scripture:

Favorite Junk Food:

My Personal Motto:

If I Could Have A Superpower:

I Love To Shop For:

As A Kid, I Wanted To Be:

I Can’t Leave Home Without:

If I Could Live Anywhere, It Would Be: I’d Do Anything To Avoid:

Favorite Item Of Clothing:

- GPS 30 -

QUOTABLES

APPRECIATING EVERY MOMENT IS PRACTICING GRATITUDE. TAKE THESE QUOTES TO BE A DAILY REMINDER TO EMBRACE LIFE AND THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD IS GOOD.

- GPS 31 -