IT’S CHRISTMAS! Discover anew that love is born when you listen.
7PM December 13 & 14 FRAZER UMC WESLEY HALL • A musical drama that will bring the whole family into the holiday spirit, as the Christmas story is told through a journey of tears and laughter. Free and open to everyone.
MORE CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Frazer Church: find hope, Follow Jesus • Sunday worship 8, 9:30 & 11AM 6000 atlanta Hwy. Montgomery • frazerumc.org • 334.272.8622 •
Volume 16, Issue 8
Feature Articles
DECEMBER 2 0 1 4 Columns page 2
Publisher’s Note
page 12
Jason Watson
Faith @ Work
page 4
Life coach and owner of Fundamentally Fit, Boo Archer, shares how her relationship with Christ inspires her to encourage and lead others to their best life!
Pastor's Perspective Pastor Buddy Bell, Landmark Church
page 11
Pondering the Journey Sam Whatley
page 14
With All Your Mind
page 16
Matt Jordan, Ph.D.
Christmas Events
Celebrate Christmas in the River Region at any of these church events which are open to the community. From candlelight and communion services to cantatas and musicals, you will be inspired by the true meaning of the season!
page 22
Counselor’s Corner Nancy Thomas, LPC
page 26
Shine
Kim Hendrix
page 27
Dave $ays
page 24
Montgomery STEP Foundation
by Rachel Fisher The STEP Foundation seeks to elevate people spiritually, emotionally, and physically through inner-city missions. Led by Sederick Fluker, and supported strongly by volunteers, STEP is still going strong after nearly 30 years of ministry in the River Region.
Dave Ramsey
page 31
The Intersection Bob Crittenden
page 35
Family Teams for Christ Lisa and Mike Conn
In Every Issue page 6
Books to Read page 8
Around Our Community
page 28
Keeping Christ the Center of Christmas
Discover ten ideas that can help connect hearts and homes to Jesus during Christmas. 1
page 24
Support Groups page 32
Event Calendar page 36
Movie Reviews December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Our Mission... We believe the Good News concerning the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is worth sharing with our friends and neighbors in the River Region. Each month we deliver this life-changing message to the centers of activity across our community in a user-friendly and relevant way to empower and equip all those seeking to grow closer to God. Join us in this mission by sharing a copy with your neighbor or by becoming an advertising partner starting next month.
Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com
Publisher
Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com
Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden
Research Editor Wendy McCollum
Contributing Writers
Pastor Buddy Bell Tim Challies Lisa and Mike Conn Bob Crittenden Rachel Fisher Kim Hendrix Matt Jordan, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey Nancy Thomas, MA, NCC, CCMHC, LPC Sam Whatley
Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 703
Ad Design
Tim Welch, Welch Designs
Distribution Team Kristy Brennan Wendy McCollum Chris Mitchell Manzie Moore Richard Ward Lesa Youngblood
From the Publisher Around the beginning of November our three year old began asking why all the lights were being hung on buildings we passed in the car. I told her people were getting ready for Christmas. The route we take home from her daycare is lined with stores covered in Christmas lights, so every day she would ask the same question... why the lights? Do you remember your child doing that? Asking the same question over and over? After about a week of me telling her the lights meant that Christmas is coming, I forbid her from asking me about them again. Wouldn’t you know she didn’t take me seriously? The next day the question came again, but something hit me. This time I wisely responded by telling her that people are getting ready to celebrate Jesus’ birthday. I wish saying Christmas and Jesus’ birthday was the same thing, but it wasn’t that way for me for about a week. As the two of us continued home, I stared ahead thinking about how important it is to not miss the redeeming miracle of when the Word became flesh. In this month’s issue we’re sharing an article that will help your family keep the focus what it should be. On page 28 read Keeping Christ the Center of Christmas: Ten Ideas To Help Connect Hearts and Homes to Him. There are ideas for everyone, so I hope you’ll consider making at least one of them part of your Christmas traditions. Everyone who understands and trusts in the perfect life, substitutionary death and life-giving resurrection of Christ knows the astounding blessing that His salvation brings our lives. This blessing is the beginning of our Christmas celebration. But the blessing that comes to us from Christ also goes through us to the world. The Messiah established His kingdom and now His followers proclaim it to the world. Each month contributing writer Rachel Fisher spotlights a local ministry who’s doing just that and this month she shares how the Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation has been spreading the hope of Christ in Montgomery’s inner city for nearly 30 years. Many of us have heard of the S.T.E.P. Foundation, but you may not be aware of the impact this ministry is making for God’s glory. I hope you’ll be inspired to be a blessing to others also as you read their story. I believe that God is putting Journey magazine in the hands of those who need to connect with the message we share. Each copy is a ministry to someone in the River Region. How can Journey serve you today? There may be some of you who have kept a distance between yourself and God. This issue of Journey may be the closest you come to hearing from God in a long time. Or you could be the person who’s living on the fringe of your faith. You believe in Jesus and respect His teachings, but you live by your own ways most of the time. Wherever you are with God, I know He wanted you to read this issue. Christmas is a great time to reconnect with Him. Please use our Christmas Events Guide on page 16 to find a special service where you can make that reconnection. The Bible explains that Jesus’ birthday is the story of God’s amazing love for you. Jesus was the Messiah who God sent to save us by offering us forgiveness and grace from our sinful rebellion. Look at the lights as you drive around, when you sit in your living room, or even at a candlelight Christmas Eve service and celebrate. Happy Birthday, Jesus, and Merry Christmas to All!
River Region’s Journey is published monthly by Keep Sharing, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123. For information, call 334-213-7940. River Region’s Journey is copyrighted 2014 by KeepSharing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The opinions expressed in River Region’s Journey are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. River Region’s Journey has the right to refuse any content that is not consistent with its statement of faith.
River Region’s Journey
December 2014
2
BH01-286
m
hy ng me id
s’
ed
ly
One look into your heart and we can ease your mind.
e,
t
ow
e
n-
g . e
o us’ to s
Ever worry about what shape your heart is really in?
3D IMAGE
With an Advanced Heart Check from Baptist Health you’ll never have to worry again. An advanced heart scan using 3-D imaging will show you all the inner workings of your heart. And if we do find something, the healing can begin before a heart attack ever happens. A happy heart will set your mind at ease.
HEART CHECK
Call (334) 273.4450 to schedule yours today. NOTHING BEATS A
ADVANCED
199
$
Happy HEART BaptistHeartHealth.com 3
BH01-28686-Boom-Mar14-AHC.indd 1
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
2/12/14 3:12 PM
Pastor’s Perspective
O
Pastor Buddy Bell, Landmark Church
More Than Meets the Eye! An older couple walked into the office of the President of Harvard University. They were not well dressed and their appearance was haggard. The President’s secretary greeted them. The man said, “We would like to see the President.” The secretary explained he was very busy and not available and offered to help. “We’ll wait,” he replied. They waited all day. Finally, late in the afternoon the secretary went to the President and begged him to see the couple, “to get them out of our hair.” He walked out of his office and asked what they wanted. They said, “Our son came to Harvard and loved it. He was killed in a terrible accident. We would like to build a memorial, a building, in his honor.” The President looked at them and shook his head and said, “You don’t know what you are getting into. We have over 7.5 million dollars of physical plant here at Harvard! I’m sorry, but I don’t think
you can help.” The couple walked out of the building. The husband looked at his wife and said, “Is that all it takes to start a University? Let’s start one of our own.” He headed back to Palo Alto, California and established a university in honor of the son Harvard never cared about--Leland Stanford University. This story teaches a simple rule in life- there always is more than meets the eye! I encourage you this Christmas to read the first seven verses of Luke 2 and look below the surface...you’ll see more than meets the eye! #1 The Christmas story reminds us that God entered the world at a certain place and time. Why is that a big deal? It reminds us that this story is not a myth, it is a story based on historical fact. What sets Christianity apart from other world religions is that it is an historical religion. It is not based simply on a thought or a feeling, but on historical fact. Luke is a careful historian who believes- at a certain place and time- God entered the world as a baby.
• A Beka Christian School Curriculum • Handwriting Without Tears • Saxxon Hands On Math • Arts • Music • Literature • Sensory Learning • Individual Attention • 2 Full-time Teachers Per Classroom • Chapel
1728 South Hull Street • 262.8830 • www.trinitypca.org/preschool River Region’s Journey
December 2014
#2 The Christmas story reminds us of who really is in charge. Caesar Augustus was a powerful Caesar. At his funeral he made sure he was mourned as a god. In this story it appears on the surface that Rome is in charge. Joseph and Mary have to make the long journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem because of Caesar’s decree. The man who thought he was a god, crossed paths with the God who was willing to become a man! Augustus may have been ruling, but God was in charge! 4
#3 The Christmas story reminds us that God often works without miracles. God used an ordinary census to put Joseph and Mary in position to fulfill divine prophecy. We need not get so hung up on waiting on a miracle that we miss God’s finger prints in everyday life. He is working behind the scenes to get you to where you need to be. #4 The Christmas story reminds us that participating in God’s plan is not always comfortable. Mary doesn’t give birth to her son in the comfort of her own city, much less the comfort of her own home. She must travel 80 miles to give birth in a stable and to lay her newborn in a feeding trough. God was not as concerned with her comfort as he was with getting Jesus where he needed to be! For us to live in God’s plan today we need to be more about getting Jesus to where he needs to be than our own comfort. #5 The Christmas story reminds us that you are special because of who you are, not what you have. The great irony of the story is that the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, and the Prince of Peace was born in a stable amidst the sounds and smells of animals. God entered the world in poverty, obscurity and rejection, as a humble and helpless baby. He had nothing, but it certainly didn’t mean he was nothing. Don’t forget that you are special because of what He has done in your life, not because of what you have. So I challenge you this Christmas, when you read the Christmas story, look below the surface and be reminded of truths that can change your life. And for God’s sake, don’t celebrate the birthday of Jesus if you are not going to let him come to his own party. Here is the good news: If you let Him in He will bring the best gift, which is Himself. Buddy Bell is pastor of Landmark Church, 1800 Hal cyon Blvd, in Montgomery.
t a O i r B l t a a t s t t w i b
C C c h G a c f H d F b m T t f l S e
G s a o o f f a C o c d t
at ys
a g er re
ur
at , e of
of y,
at
hs
s s
ch
l
Our Statement of Faith In keeping with Protestant theology, we believe that the Bible, as contained in the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is fully inspired by God and therefore inerrant in the original manuscripts. The Bible is the only essential and infallible record of God’s self-disclosure to mankind. The Scriptures are the authoritative and normative rule and guide of all Christian life, practice, and doctrine. They are totally sufficient and must not be added to, superseded, or changed by later tradition, extra-biblical revelation, or worldly wisdom. The Bible is perfect in every way and shows us how to become and live as Christians. The way of becoming a Christian is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, who came to us, born of a virgin, in full human form while remaining fully God. Jesus was, and is, perfect, and was crucified so that others could live. Three days later He rose from the dead, never to die again. He ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God the Father, where He, the only mediator between God and man, continually makes intercession for His own. Those who have faith in Jesus as their Lord in this life, and Savior from damnation in the next life, now live by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, becoming more like Jesus everyday. We believe that God is one God. The one God has three persons: the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Just as God is one, so also, all believers are to be one. We believe in the unity and fellowship of all those that have faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We are one in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body, which is composed of all men, living and dead, who have been joined to Him through saving faith.
KNOW
what to do in case of
SUSPECTED CONCUSSION A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion:
n Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n Should be urgently assessed medically n Should not be left alone n Should not drive a motor vehicle
ThinkFirst _____________________________________________
Alabama
www.ChildrensAL.org/ThinkFirstPrograms In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER.
*All editorial content published needs to be in agreement with our Statement of Faith
5
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Purity is Possible
by Helen Thorne I am often asked where the Christian book market is lacking. While there are certain topics that have been addressed by a multitude of good books (e.g. prayer, marriage, evangelism) there must be a few that have yet to receive substantial attention. For a long time I have pointed to the lack of good books on sexual purity that are targeted at women. Thankfully, Christian publishers are beginning to address the issue, and to address it well. We all know that we live in an increasingly pornified culture, where what was once shockingly pornographic is now considered humdrum and hardly worthy of comment. We all know that pornography is a plague that has effected an entire generation of young men. But all the attention focused on men may mask the fact that many women struggle as well. Some studies suggest as many as one in five women regularly access pornography; The Fifty Shades of Grey phenomRiver Region’s Journey
December 2014
enon showed that women are eager to buy and read erotica. Yet, while lust is an equal-opportunity sin, the great majority of resources are directed at men. New from author Helen Thorne is Purity Is Possible: How to Live Free of the Fantasy Trap. This book addresses fantasy, erotica and pornography, and does so from a female perspective. Thorne is transparent (but not vulgar) in describing her own struggles with lust and in sharing how she has gained increased victory over the sin. She writes in a friendly and conversational tone, inviting the readers to join her arm-in-arm as they pursue purity together. She writes: There is a rumor going around that women don’t watch online sex. There’s a school of thought that says that our fantasies are romantic rather than explicit. Some argue that we don’t think as visually as men, so pornography is rarely appealing. A few believe that we are, by nature, more pure and innocent. I wish the rumors were right. They’re not. Not in my experience, and not in the experience of most women I know. 6
But there’s another rumor going around… That there is a way out. That, in Jesus, God offers forgiveness and change. I’m so glad that rumor is true; that it can be the experience of any and everyone. Eternity is open. Purity is possible. Purity is possible, and Thorne shows from God’s Word just how it is possible. One strength of Thorne’s work is that she carefully addresses the heart and not merely the outward behavior. When it comes to sexual sin or any other sin that is manifested outwardly, it is so easy to fixate on behavior modification. But she coaches the reader in examining her heart, and learning the deeper sin problem that is causing her to act out lustfully. She deals well with true repentance, pointing out the difference between tears that flow out of shame and tears that flow out of a true desire to repent. “You can’t cry guilt away. You need to give it away.” For one reason or another there continues to be far more stigma attached to a woman’s struggle with purity than a man’s. Because the social cost is higher, admitting the struggle and crying out for help becomes that much more difficult. I trust that through this book and others we will be able to admit together that lust is not only an issue that men struggle with. I trust that this book can help many women admit their struggle, battle their sin, and find true victory over it.
t,
at
, din
h
e
al
gh o
at t d
7
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Annual Powder Puff Flag Football at Thorington Road Baptist
Thorington Road Baptist Church held its Annual Powder Puff Flag Football game on the 2nd Sunday of November. This is a great church family fellowship event with three fun games for three age groups. P-Mites are K5-2nd grade, Mighty-Mites are 3rd-5th grade, and youth (6th-12th grade) are the main attraction. The youth have been playing this game on this date for 26 years now. Everyone has fun and we are always glad to have guests join us in watching the games and having their kids play along.
Grace @ Bell Road Helps Sav-A-Life and House to House During Day of Service
Grace @ Bell Road served Sav-A-Life and House to House during its October 18th Day of Service. One team worked diligently at the church making over 400 ornaments for Sav-A-Life’s Life Tree. You will see these ornaments hanging in local businesses soon. Take one, purchase the item listed and deliver to Sav-A-Life office. We also bundled diapers for their store. Another team went out to a home being renovated by the House to House group and worked alongside Mike Bunce and his team. We love supporting these ministries and serving the people of Montgomery.
M an O A an a tol
E d
M
River Region’s Journey
December 2014
8
fe em
y.
Agape of Central Alabama Presents MICHAEL OHER
February 24 @ 7:30 p.m., MPAC Michael Oher came from a broken home and his estranged father was murdered while Oher was in high school. Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy became Oher’s legal guardians and he developed into a college football star and a top NFL draft pick. Oher’s story was told in Michael Lewis’s book The Blind Side and the Sandra Bullock film of the same name. Tickets begin at $27.
Email ministry or church news to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com.
An Evening with Third Day
December 4th, 7 pm Montgomery Performing Arts Center at the Renaissance, Montgomery Visit ticketmaster.com!
9
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
St. John’s A.M.E. Church’s Youth Presents:
‘ Tis the Season for A Change D I N N E R
T H E A T R E
Saturday, December 20, 2014 @ 5:00 p.m.
Call (334) 265-4136
A heart-warming Christmasmust-see. The play, written by Pamela R. Smith is loosely based on Charles Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol”. Dinner will be served immediately following the production. Admission is FREE, so bring your entire family! Reserve your tickets today, as seating is limited. (A ticket is required upon admission).
or visit www.stjohnsame.com/tickets.aspx | 807 Madison Ave. Montgomery, AL
Parenting Workshop at Christchurch in January
“Parenting This Generation” will be held January 30-31 (Friday 7pm-9pm & Saturday 9am-Noon) at Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Counselors Melissa Trevathan, David Thomas and Sissy Goff from Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville will be speaking. Look at what it means to bring time-tested values into a modern world…how to deal with issues that are more concerning than ever before: disrespect, entitlement and the seduction of technology. David examines the world and ways of a boy, and the vital role you can play in his journey to manhood. Sissy and Melissa break down the stages of a girl’s development as she becomes the woman she is uniquely designed to be. $35 couple/$20 single. Tickets available through the church office at 334-387-0566.
scr “T col aro cob Pre the Sc nis
see the Lo in an titu gen Ch tio
gu im
Frazer’s Sports and Fitness Ministry Excels—Upward!
Frazer’s Upward football league completed another season filled with highlights, love and fellowship. The league enjoyed “closing ceremonies” with special entertainment, awards and a word from Senior Minister Dr. Tim Thompson. One father said, “We had a great experience this season! We had wonderful coaches and felt our son learned the fundamentals of football.” Another parent commented, “Our coach was awesome and displayed such great Christian character.” Registration is underway now for Upward Basketball at frazerumc.org. River Region’s Journey
December 2014
10
J it he go
W as Je im
Sc ma pai him him fre tiv cor
pro lat wh
t y
e
& h,
d r ill to rn re sof ld e od. ges es d ts at
e ial m ne e s ls d, d aet-
The Real Answer for Ebenezer Scrooge A popular story portrayed on stage and screen at Christmastime is Charles Dickens’ “The Christmas Carol.” Children delight in the colorful costumes and scariness of spirits flying around the room. The chain-laden ghost of Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present, and Yet to Come succeed in scaring the daylights out of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. Scrooge ends up being a super nice guy, furnishing the ghost story with a happy ending. Adults can enjoy that too, but they can see it all on a deeper level. They can reflect on the poverty and injustice of, not just Victorian London, but places throughout the world and in all times. They can be encouraged to see an individual delivered from his “me-first” attitude to become a symbol of compassion and generosity. Some have viewed this story as a Christian analogy of supernatural transformation of the soul. But there is the Humbug. Supernatural guidance is available to us, but not through the imagination of Charles Dickens. In the Bible (Matthew 19:23-26) we read: Jesus said to his disciples, “I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Dickens does not show us that Ebenezer Scrooge had a relationship with God. The old man repents of the price he and others have paid for his love of money, but we never see him repent before his Maker. We never see him recognize the price Jesus paid to set him free. That is what is missing from the narrative. And that is what makes the story, at its core, unrealistic. Very seldom do we see dramatic improvement in the personality of people in their latter years. Occasionally it does happen; but when it does, look for the hand of God.
As Jesus said to Nicodemus in the Scriptures (John 3:3 and 3:16): I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again…. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
time. That’s why you see so many Christmas parties. Watching early scenes of “The Christmas Carol,” many in the audience may be subconsciously thinking, “Old Scrooge just needs to lighten up and live a little. He’s missing out on the party.” He’s missing out on much more than that. He is missing the joyful life Christ died to give him. Are you missing out on that, too? Your situation may not resemble the old miser in most respects, but are you trapped by your own selfish ways? Pick up a Bible, get to a church and find the life God intended for you to have. Only then can we say with Tiny Tim, “God bless us, every one.”
So, if “A Christmas Carol” is not a message of Christian redemption, why do we hear so much about it during the Christmas season? I think the answer is in the festive nature of something we have come to call “The Christmas Spirit.” Like the Victorians of the 19th century we now associate Christmas with good food, friends, family gatherings, music, and gifts. Unlike the Victorians, some go to church, but most consider that completely optional. The idea of “The Christmas Spirit” can be traced back to the early 1840s. “A Christmas Carol” was published December 19, 1843 about the same time that or vEry the Christmas tree was introduced to England E n E r at i o n by Queen Victoria’s new husband Prince Albert of Germany. That same year the first Christmas Prattville First United Methodist Church cards were circulated. 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 The old custom of singing Christmas carols was T R A D IT IO N A L W O R S H IP 8 : 3 0 A M & 11: 00 A M coming back into style. S U N D AY S C H O O L 9 : 4 5 A M Tired of the remnants of T H E W E L L 11 : 0 0 A M stodgy Puritanism, the British wanted to have a good time. And in America today people generwww.prattvillemethodist.org ally want to have a good
F G
11
E
December 2014
.
River Region’s Journey
beginning of wisdom.” Did God answer your prayer and give you wisdom? Absolutely! But it was through a long process of Him changing me from the inside out so I would look to Him for all things. That day, when I was 13, I asked for the gift of wisdom, but I thought I was asking for “smarts” so I could make better grades. As the class comedienne I was anxious to turn those C’s into A’s. Ha, it never happened! However, I didn’t lose faith; I knew my request was heard. I didn’t really know what I was asking for, but He knew what I needed. In the years to come, often times through personal struggle, I learned the wisdom of the Lord and found the blessing that comes from living life the way He designed it to be lived. RRJ: In 2000 you became a Personal Trainer. How did God lead you to choose that profession? Personal training found me. I always have had a love of exercise, and was a Recreation major at Clemson. I am a compulsive encourager; I can’t help myself! I want nothing more than for people to take care of themselves and working with individuals to bring about CHANGE is what I get fired up about each day. RRJ: You shared a story with me about going to the alter at church when you were 13 to ask God for wisdom. Does that mean you placed your faith in Christ at an early age? Yes. When my mother was in her forties, a friend introduced her to Christ. I noticed a BIG CHANGE in my mother from then on. She had the same personality, but her beautiful traits were in “technicolor”. I was all in! I wanted Jesus, too! As mother proceeded to find a church home, I tagged along and felt firecrackers being set off in my heart. On my thirteenth birthday, I accepted Jesus as my Lord, in the basement of an old hotel, with a group of “Jesus Freaks” cheering me to victory! RRJ: Going back to that story, Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the River Region’s Journey
December 2014
RRJ: Recently you became another kind of trainer as a Life Coach. Is there a connection between the two? I began to feel God poking me about something, so I just asked the Lord to stop “poking” me and just to “dump” discernment on me. He did! After all those years of personal training, I encountered a common denominator amongst all my clients... CHANGE. WAS. HARD. I could have the most hardworking, optimistic and hopeful client on a diet and nutrition program, things would be going fine, and then “Bam!”... life happened. And there they were. Still stuck. Still frustrated. Losing faith in their ability to make permanent lifestyle changes. I felt their pain because of my own past failures even when I knew better. That’s why I took a step further as a trainer 12
and became a Life Coach. I now am able to go deeper into my clients lives to learn where their true struggles lie. Then I’m able to lay out a pathway to victory for them along with practical tools to help them succeed. RRJ: That seems to lead back to you seeking wisdom. How does your Christian faith shape the way you approach your job as a Life Coach? My Christian faith is the foundation for all I do. My business “Fundamentally Fit” was named by God for me. I implement the “Fundamental” truths of the word of God, then we laugh, lighten life’s load, and gain perspective. The “Fit” comes from my desire for all to be well with one’s soul and body. True fitness encompasses mind, body and spirit. I want to be a “fitness witness”...to be equipped to fight the fight, with the right tools to get clients to their destination, and stay there! I immerse my clients in daily regimens that enrich and emotionally strengthen them. We collaborate together, and create a plan of action with an emphasis on their individuality. RRJ: I know as a Life Coach you provide practical tools for achieving success to your clients. What tools do you use for achieving intimacy with Christ? Life coaching is all about action. It’s moving a person through their hard place, with tools of all sorts, to break through the wall they hit every time they attempt to do life differently. It is exactly what we all encounter in our desire to grow in our faith. My faith, and intimacy with my Savior, is all about me being mindful of Christ at work in my life. To do that I’ve intentionally simplified my life, and learned to say no. I had to stop trying to please the world. Again, I’ve gained God’s wisdom as He’s taken me through the school of Hard Knocks. I have used the world’s coping tools which are a lie from the enemy designed to cause self-destruction...so I am intentional every single day about re-framing my focus. The focus is easy. JESUS...bottom line! Boo and her husband, Tim, have been married for 23 years and live in Montgomery. They have two children, Landon (20) and Cole (16), and a Siberian Husky, Fresca.
o ere
h
sh
nd
l d,
t,
y
-
u ?
ng
ll
n-
in to e
e
y e
and nd
13
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Decembe
Quirinius and Christmas “In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria…”
This passage from the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke is a familiar one. It’s not unusual for it to be included as part of the narrative of a Christmas pageant or to be read from church pulpits during the Advent season. Luke here gives us the time frame for
River Region’s Journey
December 2014
Joseph and Mary’s trip to Bethlehem, where Jesus would be born. At first glance, it seems pretty mundane. Does it really matter who the governor of Syria was when Mary gave birth? The truly important thing is that Jesus— Immanuel, “God with us”—was, in fact, born. That’s a big deal. The time and place are immaterial… or are they? Certainly, it is true that the event of the Incarnation is more important than the date of the Incarnation. But the fact that we can specify the time and place of Jesus’s birth is really quite extraordinary. It reflects one of the principal respects in which orthodox Christianity is fundamentally different from all of the other great religions of the world: our faith is tied to actual, historical events in ways that make it possible to assess some of its most important claims in light of objective evidence. No other religion says anything so bold about its foundations. Whether the Buddha really lived, for example, is irrelevant to the wisdom of Buddhist thought and contemporary Buddhist practice. The claim that Allah revealed the Qu’ran to Muhammad is not, by its very nature, the sort of claim that could be supported by evidence. Likewise for assertions made by Hindus, Wiccans, and others. When it comes to the New Testament, however, it’s a different story. 14
The central claim of Christianity is that God came to Earth in the person of Jesus Christ, and the stories we have about Jesus are embedded in narratives that contain geographical, sociological, and historical details that can be verified. In spite of popular reports to the contrary, those narratives hold up remarkably well when evaluated according to reasonable standards of evidence. It is not possible in this limited space to explain many of the details, so instead I will quote biblical scholar Dr. Peter Williams, the warden of Tyndale House and an affiliated lecturer at Cambridge University. In an excellent talk titled “New Evidences the Gospels Were Based on Eyewitness Accounts” (which can be found on YouTube), Williams assesses the New Testament narratives in light of archaeological discoveries about the ancient near east, and says this about the authors of the Gospels: “They’re not just getting it right on place names and [personal] names and plants; they’re getting the shape of house right, they’re getting the shape of the temple right, they’re getting the coinage right, they’re getting the social stratification right, they’re getting the religious setting right… After a while you think, ‘There are so many opportunities for them to go wrong if they are making it up.’ So many opportunities… [yet] they don’t seem to go wrong like that.”
All those apparently mundane details are precisely the kinds of things we would expect to find if the authors who wrote them down were aiming, first and foremost, to tell us the truth about what really happened two thousand years ago. What’s more, in places where we can check to see whether the authors get it right, they do—over and over and over again. When you hear the name “Quirinius” spoken this Christmas season, pause to consider its significance. The man himself may not be terribly important. Luke’s reference to him, however, is. It is a powerful reminder that the Christmas story is not merely wonderful, but also true. If there are topics you’d like to see Dr. Jordan address in a future column, please email him at mjordan5@aum.edu.
Do
d
can e ly
e
ar
on d
cal
es ng ape e ght, er a ties So go
are ect
e
ere t it in.
-
to
December 2014 Christmas ad_Layout 1 11/14/14 11:51 AM Page 1
Merry Christmas! Tune to Faith Radio throughout the Christmas season for music and programs that proclaim our Savior’s birth! On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, we present A Faith Radio Christmas, including continuous Christmas music and programs.
Your Investment and Support Matters! As we conclude 2014, we ask you to prayerfully consider making Once again Faith Radio will soon distribute crosses a Kingdom Investment in Christmas this ministry. Faith Radio is touching to our listeners! Thanks to a very generous and faithful donor, we many lives each day and night and your donation can will have hundreds of these 7-foot crosses which listeners can make an eternal impact. Faith Radio is listener supported and cover with lights and display as a bright symbol of Christ this your support matters! Contact us by calling 800-239-8900 or season. Like last year, we will have the crosses available in visitand ourAndalusia website www.faithradio.org. Montgomery, Dothan around Thanksgiving. Our donor requests that a donation of at least $35 per cross be made 800.239.8900 | mail@faithradio.org | www.faithradio.org to Faith Radio. This gift helps Faith Radio continue to spread the Box 210789, AL 36121 Good News of Jesus Christ. There isP.O. a limited supplyMontgomery, and last year the Christmas Crosses were gone within a few days. Stay tuned Listen LIVE Now at www.faithradio.org • Montgomery WLBF 89.1FM | Andalusia WSTF 91.5FM December 2014 River Region’s Journey 15 Dothanfor WLBF 90.3FM | Eufaula 91.9FM | Alexander City 94.1FM | Sylacauga 94.1FM | Thorsby/Jemison 96.9FM details and times!
G
33
W
Ca at
Pi B
15
Sa
An 4p the Ch
Montgomery
United Lutheran Church
Aldersgate UMC
Saturday, December 7
6610 Vaughn Road
Sunday, December 7
11 a.m. The Christmas Song Musical Drama; A heart stirring dramatic presentation featuring the Chancel Choir, Orchestra and Drama Ministry.
Sunday, December 14
4:00 p.m. Lessons and Carols Service Featuring music by the Chancel Choir, Joyful Bells, Praise Singers, Youth Choir, Worship Team and Carol Choir.
Wednesday, December 24
Christmas Eve Service; 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Communion, Carols and Candlelight Music featuring string trio, flute and cello. For more information call the Aldersgate music ministry office at (334) 272.6152.
1104 Rosa Parks Avenue, (334) 262.4326 Christmas Bazaar 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Great opportunity to do your holiday shopping, food, home décor and one of a kind handmade gift items.
Dalraida UMC
Sanctuary for the season of Advent.
Sunday, December 14 Festival of Christmas Concert, 4 pm Our annual concert featuring our music ministry and a professional orchestra.
Wednesday, December 17 Longest Night Service, 6 p.m. A service of hope and healing in the Sanctuary.
3817 Atlanta Hwy, (334) 272.2190
Wednesday, December 24
Sunday, December 21
Christmas Eve Services Noon, family service - 3:30 p.m., Candlelight services at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Christmas Cantata at 11 a.m.
Eastern Hills Baptist Church 3604 Pleasant Ridge Road (in the Forest Hills neighborhood)
Frazer Memorial UMC 6000 Atlanta Highway
Sunday, December 7
December 13 and 14 “Listen, It’s Christmas” Wesley Hall, 7 p.m. Frazer presents this community wide production, Christmas Theatre. Fun for the entire family! Please call (334) 272.8622 or visit www.frazerumc.org.
Candlelight service, 5:00 pm Please visit our website for more information - www.centeringlives.com.
10th Annual “Hanging of the Green” 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Come help us ring in the Christmas season celebrating the hope found in the Christ Child! Also featuring: Youth Choirs, Drama, Celebration Ringers (hand bells), Ensemble, Narration, Interpretive Movement, Visual Arts and more. Come early for a good seat. No admission charge. Call (334) 272.0604 ext. 214 or visit us online, www.ehbconline.com.
Christchurch
First Presbyterian Church
Tuesday, December 2
Wednesday, December 24
“Candlelight Worship” 5 p.m. in Sanctuary and 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall.
Centerpoint Fellowship at Cloverdale Baptist Church 608 E. Fairview Ave.
Wednesday, December 24
8800 Vaughn Road
9299 Vaughn Road, Pike Road
6 p.m. Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert at. You are invited to a free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45-minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church, as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. Reception to follow in Canterbury. Reception tickets will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203. Please visit www.christchurchxp.net for more details.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service 5:30 p.m. with Communion. Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Please call (334) 279.1372 or visit www.firstchurchmontgomery.org.
River Region’s Journey
December 2014
First United Methodist Church 2416 West Cloverdale Park (334) 834.8990
Sunday, November 30 Hanging of the Greens, 4 – 6 p.m. Come with unwrapped toys or monetary gifts for families in need as we dress our 16
Sunday, December 21 “The Longest Night Service” at 7 p.m. in the East Sanctuary. A special service for those who are experiencing a loss, grieving or lonely.
Wednesday, December 24
First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street
Sunday, November 30 The Joy Singers Christmas Program at 6:15 p.m. Main Sanctuary; Come join us in a narration and familiar carols presented by the JOY Singers Senior Adult Choir.
December 12-14 The Living Christmas Tree Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www.montgomeryfbc.org.
Sa
90
W
Tre Pu Ple ing by of wil 17 of Ch tac
-
Gateway Baptist Church 3300 Bell Road, (334) 272.9494
Wednesday, December 24
Candlelight Service and Communion, held at 5 p.m.
Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 East Washington Street
Saturday, December 13 Annual Christmas Production 4 p.m. Hosted by the Youth Dept. Join them as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Call (334) 462.3048.
Saint James UMC 9045 Vaughn Road, (334) 277.3037
Wednesday, December 17 Tree of Lights Ceremony, 5:30 p.m. Purchase a light before December 12 Please join us in honoring and remembering our loved ones this Christmas season by purchasing a light on the youth “Tree of Lights”. Each light costs $10 and there will be a ceremonial lighting, December 17th, to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have shown us the light of Christ! If you’d like to purchase a light, contact Melissa Dishmon at 481-0736.
Wednesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Services 12 p.m.-Sanctuary, Early service for those going out of town; 4 p.m.–Family Life Center, Fun interactive celebration service for children; 5 p.m.–Worship Center, Candle lighting communion service; 7 p.m.Sanctuary, Candle lighting and communion service.
Vaughn Forest Church Sunday, December 7
Christmas Program: A Night of Worship Everyone is invited to celebrate the sounds of Christmas at 6 p.m. in the worship center of Vaughn Forest, 8660 Vaughn Road. For more information please contact Vaughn Forest Church at (334) 279.5433.
East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Road
December 13-14 The Hope of Christmas featuring the Living Nativity in song and drama at 6 p.m. Admission is free. For more information contact the church office at (334) 365.7500 or visit our website at www. eastmemorial.org.
First Baptist Church, Prattville 138 South Washington St.
December 20 and 21 A Night in Bethlehem, at 5 p.m. by reservation. Call (334) 365.0606.
Wednesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Service, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Glynwood Baptist Church 376 McQueen Smith Road N. (334) 361.9180
Prattville Centerpoint Fellowship Marriott Conference Center, 2500 Legends Circle, Prattville, (334) 356.3076
Thursday, December 25 Candlelight Services at 3 pm, 4:30 pm, and 6 p.m. Please visit our website for more information - www.centeringlives.com.
Sunday, December 7 6 p.m., Children’s Christmas Musical, “The Light has Come”
Sunday, December 14 10:15 a.m., Adult Christmas Musical, “On This Very Night”
Wednesday, December 24 5 p.m., Christmas Eve Worship
he-
g.
-
ry
us ed
e.
17
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Ap inc ho MO are Ba Pri Me ho tut and
suc Riv nat and Ho bee tut in abs in a tr at‘ro Pre in ing nee are ou
by Rachel Fisher
To date, generations of at-risk children and their families have been recipients of the ministry of S.T.E.P. Some people may argue the need for swifter improvements in our city, but executive director Sederick Fluker says that our city is far better off by having a ministry like S.T.E.P. that goes into the heart of at-risk schools and communities, sharing the love of Christ. Founded in 1986, S.T.E.P. was organized around a basic framework of religious, charitable, literary and educational services to the at-risk communities of the River Region. S.T.E.P. seeks to elevate people spiritually, emotionally, and physically through inner-city missions. The philosophy behind S.T.E.P. is that its staff, volunteers, and associated churches move into an at-risk area of the region and work with the people living in that community. S.T.E.P. also partners with various agencies who are providing other services within that community. S.T.E.P. serves as a catalyst for mobilizing various resources in the community such as the housing authority, schools, churches, police department, resident councils and other helping agencies to come together to work for a common cause of elevating all of God’s children. S.T.E.P. is in the business of helping people over the long haul. Some of the activities that have highlighted the history of S.T.E.P. include Think Big Rallies, Abstinence Education, a Police
It’s rare for a ministry to successfully serve in the capacity that the Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation has for almost 30 years without losing enthusiasm and a sense of mission. Since 1986, the Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation has touched nearly every at-risk community in the area and had a critical presence in the Montgomery public school system. Most importantly, S.T.E.P. has invested in the lives of youth and played a foundational role region-wide as they faithfully execute “Strategies To Elevate People”. Through its partner churches, staff, and volunteers, S.T.E.P. has been a pillar for the community by transforming lives one heart at a time. River Region’s Journey
December 2014
18
Appreciation Banquet, Drug Free Rallies including follow-up work in the neighborhoods, S.T.E.P. Week at Camp Chandler, MOMS Programs in which single mothers are given life-sustaining skills, a Midnight Basketball League, the awarding of Operation Pride, Fatherhood Initiative, Dexter Hobbs Memorial college scholarships to neighborhood children, Vacation Bible Schools, and tutoring programs in the churches, schools, and communities. S.T.E.P. has sponsored major events such as the SUPER S.T.E.P. Saturday at Riverside and rallies which have brought such nationally-known figures as Dr. Ben Carson and Dr. Tony Evans to address the children. However, the strength of the program has been the day-by-day work of staff, volunteers, tutors in the churches and schools, mentors in the Academy of Performing Arts, and abstinence and conflict resolution coaches in public schools. Overall, S.T.E.P. spends a tremendous amount of time ministering to at-risk children and families. They are a “year ‘round” organization, and have a Violence Prevention Program that includes staff serving in three Montgomery public schools working daily with at-risk youth who desperately need their presence and intervention. They are also engaging students on weekends outside of school, as well as during summer
months through enrichment programs in at-risk neighborhoods. S.T.E.P. has been traditionally known for going into tough environments and making a significant difference with those being served. S.T.E.P. is always willing to go where the need is, be it a public school or public housing community, but this ministry doesn’t impact one neighborhood or one segment of the community – S.T.E.P. is impacting multiple communities, school communities, and individuals throughout the city of Sederick Fluker and his wife Sametta of 16 years are picMontgomery. tured with their two daughters, Serenity and Samiya. From 1987-2009, S.T.E.P. was led by Lee Baugh who pioneered what such a legacy of service to the community.” was considered a new kind of ministry in Sederick attributes the longevity of the minthe late 80’s and grew the ministry signifiistry to the same reason the Bible has had its cantly through forming partnerships with longevity – “God is in it!” says Sederick. “I at-risk youth, neighborhoods, public schools, truly believe S.T.E.P. was divinely orcheshousing communities, churches and other trated by God to make a profound difference nonprofit organizations. In 2010, Sederick in our community.” Apart from this reality, Fluker, who volunteered with S.T.E.P. as Sederick believes S.T.E.P., through its partner a college student and then spent 12 years churches, staff, and volunteers, has genuinely serving as choral director for the S.T.E.P. made a sustained, notable difference in our Choir and Violence Prevention Educator at community--particularly in public housMcIntyre Middle School, became the execuing communities and other under-resourced tive director. neighborhoods. “I feel as passionate about the mission of “I also believe S.T.E.P.’s longevity is S.T.E.P. today as I did in my college years,” directly connected to our ability to evolve he says. “ It’s very humbling to be a part of with the changing times and staying relevant
r ry -
-
sd k h
es
s
19
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
in our services to the community,” he says. “ I don’t believe we could’ve survived this long were we not meeting an important need within the community.” Although S.T.E.P. has evolved over the years, the ministry has expanded into at-risk public schools and low-income apartment complexes. “Many people around town will tell you they volunteered as tutors with S.T.E.P. early on-- STEP’s Boys to Men campaign. really before a lot of churches started having their own discipleship-based programs. Through these tutoring programs. However, there is still a need to connect people who can help with the programs, S.T.E.P. is building solid interpersonal relationships with participants as well people who need help.” Although some of as with the community. With the help of the strategies to elevate people have changed success-mentors who are positive men and over the years, Sederick affirms that the miswomen from the community, kids are able to sion of S.T.E.P. remains the same. connect the dots to success. “We are targeting Today, S.T.E.P. is focusing on at-risk youth and their families--particularly between 50 participants for both programs, and seeing a great response from the children as well as the ages of 9-16. “We wanted to be more intheir parents,” says Sederick. “Parents are testentional about the success of youth we work tifying to the impact the programs are having with; therefore, we deemed it necessary to on their children. Local churches, businesses, launch two specialized “success-mentoring” and colleges have also joined our efforts to programs for at-risk girls and boys,” explains empower at-risk youth through collaborative Sederick. The Dream Girls Unlimited and partnerships. We know these initiatives are Boys to Men Unlimited programs are two definitely combating negative risk factors,
risky behaviors, and youth violence among our program participants.” Since 2000, S.T.E.P. has had offices in local public schools. “We have been able to be first responders to student problems or needs as they occur,” says Sederick. “I wish there had been S.T.E.P. counselors when I was in school! It makes a profound difference when a child is having a problem at school or at home and can talk with a caring adult when a teacher or another school official may not have the time to listen.” Another wonderful attribute of S.T.E.P. is mobilizing volunteers and resources to wherever the need is. “We’re not confined to doing ministry in one specific location or building; we can go to any under-resourced neighborhood in the city and transform the community center into a ministry center,” says Sederick. “This is what we refer to as site-based ministry.” The gap that S.T.E.P. has an opportunity to fill is during the critical eight-hour school day when children spend a considerable amount of time away from their parents or sound accountability. S.T.E.P. educators are onsite ready to help children in any way they can. “We’ve prevented numerous fights, stopped bullying in its tracks, ministered to frustrated parents, secured clothing or
0000067769-01
New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!... 1
Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International
D RAMA
www.riverviewcamp.com
Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive.
AND
Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director
1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
C RAFTS • C HORUS
first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
AND
FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •
River Region’s Journey
December 2014
20
sch rol sta ma ho all du
cou say vo of of inv saw sid joy ind ov app af tha thi dec
bee ful wo get shi per
ay r
ed
al a ir uny
or
school supplies for those who needed them, role-modeled and even encouraged school staff,” says Sederick. “Some non-profits may meet with kids occasionally, after school hours, or on weekends, but S.T.E.P. employs all of the above...particularly we fill in the gap during peak school hours Monday-Friday.” “It almost seems weekly now that I encounter someone who has a ‘S.T.E.P. Story’,” says Sederick. “Whether that individual volunteered with S.T.E.P. or was a beneficiary of one of our programs, there’s always a light of joy in their faces as they tell stories of their involvement with S.T.E.P.” One day, Sederick saw two former participants working side by side in a store and remembers: “I smiled with joy because I knew S.T.E.P. impacted these individuals as youngsters. They both came over to greet me and shared how much they appreciated the organization for giving them a foundation to be successful. I firmly believe that is the shared story of hundreds of others this ministry has impacted for almost three decades throughout the city of Montgomery.” For Sederick, measuring success has been seeing former participants being gainfully employed and contributing positive work back to the community; seeing others get into college and helping them get scholarships to pursue their dreams. Finally, for him personally, success has been interacting with
more than 700 middle school students through the S.T.E.P. Choir, most of which graduated from high school and made commitments to Christ during his time working with them. Sederick wants the community to know that there is still a need for S.T.E.P. today – perhaps a more critical need than when it was first formed in the mid 1980s. “The community should know McKee students raise money for Sunshine Center Pennies for Peace Campaign by STEP. that S.T.E.P. is on the ‘frontlines’ of preventstatement. This alone speaks volumes for a ing short-term and long-term youth violence ministry committed to its number one priority in our city and after almost three decades – Jesus Christ. of service and hundreds of lives impacted, The community can be involved by S.T.E.P. has remained solid in its mission to praying, volunteering, mentoring , and giving present the Gospel in at-risk communities by financially to this important ministry. All are mobilizing churches, volunteers, and other needed, and all are welcomed. Just visit the helping agencies who are elevating people to a better life.” When faced with a critical deci- organization’s website at www.montgomsion of whether to change the wording in their erystep.org to get involved or call the office at (334) 262-3141. mission statement in order to receive more secular funding, the board of directors voted Rachel Fisher loves learning about what God is unanimously to keep the phrase “to present doing in the world and writing about it. She and her the Gospel” in the final draft of the mission husband Chase live in Montgomery.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
•
AND
C RAFTS • C HORUS
AND
D RAMA
•
21
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Making the Most of Your Holidays “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” (Luke 2:10) The upcoming Christmas holidays can be marked with profound conflicting experiences. Christmas may include joy, time for personal reflection, spiritual growth, gathering with family and friends or long held family traditions. However, family tension, stressful schedules, financial strain, sad memories, childhood disappointments, pain, conflicts, grief and unfulfilled expectations may also be unwelcome guests. Many times, adults wonder how they revert so easily into unpleasant childhood roles. For some, Christmas holidays represent dread, apprehension, expenses, unpleasantness and a time to be endured. Divorce and remarriage can also impact family traditions suddenly by the need to divide or blend long held traditions. When we have conflicting emotions, it is probably a good idea to re-evaluate our holiday traditions. Perhaps it is time to develop new traditions that are spiritual and nurturing. Traditions with family and extended family change with the family life cycle, as children and grandchildren grow to adulthood, marry and have children of their own; River Region’s Journey
December 2014
they must incorporate the families of their spouses. How are your traditions working? Adult siblings may place a priority on being with their children and grandchildren instead of their family of origin. A family member may be unable to come home due to military service. Suddenly, the large extended family gatherings may not take place on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Not being prepared for these changes can leave you feeling lonely and sad over the holidays. Being prepared and thoughtfully updating traditions allows you to embrace the holidays with joy. What is the best way to address these issues? First of all, looking back on recent holidays, what did you find the most fulfilling, memorable or enjoyable? What were the most stressful aspects of the holidays? What activities resulted in spiritual blessings for you or others? Is there a way to modify the activities? Can you eliminate extraneous activities? What can be added that is meaningful? Who would you like to include in your holiday plans? Is considering alternative dates for gatherings appropriate? Does the time spent with family need to be shortened or lengthened? Are others interested in developing new holiday traditions in your family, among your friends or at your church? Does your budget need to be modified? Have you made God a priority? Include the others you plan to involve in your holidays in the discussion of what is valuable, meaningful, and treasured. What gives your life meaning? Do you want more or less time with family? More or less travel? More or less time with friends? More or less time cooking? More or less time giving time to those less fortunate? More or less time resting and renewing? 22
If you spend time with family, be sure to give yourself a break from the togetherness to refresh your peace of mind. Offer to go to the store or run errands. Take a walk, take the kids to the zoo, the park or shopping. Consider attending a movie or play. Relieve family from preparing a meal by eating a meal out with friends, picking up food, or cooking. Consider staying in a hotel instead being cramped where tensions can rise. It is surprising how helpful this can be. Have a scavenger hunt for the kids, bake cookies with the children, develop a crossword puzzle or game with family trivia for everyone to play. Have prizes for the games. Have the children bring costumes and act out Luke 2. If children aren’t involved, be sure to read the Christmas story. Increase participation in spiritual activities. Attend Christmas services, concerts, plays or movies. Bless your support network by inviting friends or acquaintances to share in your celebration. Develop a memory or blessings box for everyone to contribute memories about each other. Create a group video of affirmations and memories to share, even with those who can’t attend. Play beautiful Christmas music. Above all, remember and experience the miracle of Jesus’ birth. Experience the joy, peace of mind and peace of soul that only belief in Jesus can provide. Luke 2:14: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Nancy W. Thomas, M.A., N.C.C., C.C.M.H.C., L.P.C.
Nancy Thomas is the Executive Director of Clinical Services at The Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. in Montgomery. She is a National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated from the University of Alabama with an M.A. in Counselor Education in 1994. She has extensive training and experience in mental health and marriage and family therapy. Her professional interests are in mental health recovery, adolescent and college issues, life transitions, healthy relationships, marital counseling, parenting, spirituality and identity development, and preserving marriages and families. Nancy works primarily with adolescents and adults.
to
tel
e.
ia
. vi-
to o-
, !”
.
h d ucaal ests e , and
23
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Adoption
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy and Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville APAC- Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connection Support Group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer UMC. For information, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Chad & Betsy Emerson (334) 201-5241 Wednesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 116. The Orphan Care Group will focus on God’s call to help orphans through adoption, foster care, and missions work. The group will share experiences, study and Biblical themes regarding orphan care, and provide a support and network for individuals who want to support orphans.
Alcoholic / Addict
Location: Caring Center of FBC, 52 Adams Avenue CrossRoads Support Group is for addicts/alcoholics and family members. Meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and follows a Christ-centered 12-step program. Call 264-4949. Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. 272.2190. Alanon meets at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. Location: First Baptist Church (Huff Community Ministries Bldg., 200 S. Perry Street) Celebrate Recovery, a Bible-based Christ centered approach to recovery from hurts, habits and hang-ups, meets Friday nights, from 5:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. For more information, contact Jane Ferguson at 241.5141. Location: Grace @ Bell Road, Corner of Bell Road and Atlanta Hwy. Alcoholics Anonymous and Alanon meetings are held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, at 6 p.m. An Open AA Speaker meeting is held on Saturday at 6 p.m. An Alanon & AA held on Sundays at 2 p.m. Location: Grace Point Community Church, 78223 Tallassee Hwy (Hwy 14), Wetumpka Celebrate Recovery- every Tuesday night- 6:15pm. All are welcome! These meetings are a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hang-ups! gracepoint.info. Location: Journey Church, 2960 East Cobbs Ford Road across from The Catfish House in Millbrook Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone
River Region’s Journey
December 2014
Loc AD day struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mondays at 5:30pm (meal-CrossTalk Cafe), 6-6:55 pm (large group), 6:55-7:45 (small group). Childcare available. Call Larry at 334-832-5714 or visit myjourneychurch.com.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 272.8622.
Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. RSVP- This is a 12 step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and Bible we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, the making of amends for our destructive actions, and to fill the void in our hearts in a loving relationship with God. Wednesday @ 6:30pm in Rm. 121 of the Life Center.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Dementia Daycare is held each Thursday in Rm. 3101 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each participant may bring a sack lunch. There is no charge. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. For info, call the LifeCare office at 272-8622.
Location: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 East Main St. RSVP - 12 step (Christians Against Substance AbuseCASA) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334-365-4201 for addition information. Location: Santuck Baptist Church, 7250 Central Plank Rd. (Hwy 9), Wetumpka. Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday evening at 6:15 in the Fellowship Hall. This is a Chrsit centered 12 step-program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Call 567-2364. Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) is open to all struggling with addictive sexual behavior. If you believe you have a problem with sex addiction (or are wondering if you might) and you want to change your behavior, we recommend you visit our group. For locations, please visit- https://saa-recovery.org/ or please contact – MontgomerySAA@outlook.com. Meetings are held: every Sunday night - 7:45 p.m, men only. Every Monday night - 7:30 p.m, men and women. Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday night from 6-8 pm in the Youth Room. This is a Christ-centered 12-step group for anyone struggling with an “addiction or life-challenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427. Location: Trinity Episcopal, Wetumpka (Across from Winn Dixie on HWY 231) Gamblers Anonymous-Saturdays at 7 p.m. Location: Victory Temple Church (located behind Wetumpka Walmart) ‘Fresh Start’ Recovery meets every Monday, 6-8pm (meal included). In 2011, Fresh Start Motorcycle Ministry (FSMM) began when God laid it on the heart of a lifetime biker to minister to those with his background. All are welcome, not a requirement to own/ride a motorcycle. Format used is the Holy Bible. For any info contact ministry leader, Paul Henderson, 334-201-5428.
Alzheimer’s / Dementia
Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Wesley Hall Bldg. An Adult Parkinson/Alzheimer’s respite ministry meets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Lunch is served. Contact Daphne Johnston at 834-8990.
24
Location: Memorial Presbyterian, 2130 Bell Road A Dementia Morning Out for caregivers is offered each Tuesday from 8:45-noon. There is no charge. Each participant may bring a sack lunch (juice provided). Registration is required by calling 274-1018.
Cancer
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery Cancer Survivors Support Group is sponsored by Samaritan Counseling Center. We would love to have anyone (patient or family member ) join us. Thursdays at 1 pm. Please call before attending just to make sure we are meeting that week. Please call Debbie D at 467-4578 or Ben W at 202-1912. Location: Dalraida Baptist, 3838 Wares Ferry Road. Just for Men -- Faith based cancer support group for men. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the conference center. Please call 272-2412 email stan.hurst@knology.net. Location: ChristChurch, 8800 Vaughn Road Cancer Support Group for general cancer. Tuesday afternoons at 1 pm. For more info, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie at 467-4578. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, providing education, awareness, and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family, and friends, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Rm 8253. Call 272-8622 or womenofhope@charter.net. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. The Central Alabama Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets from 10 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of every month in Room 3105. We have guest speakers, video presentations, printed information and a group that welcomes sharing their journey with myeloma in an informal setting. Refreshments are provided. For more information, contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at 334-281-8158, or by email at duncan6563@gmail.com.
Depression
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets on the 1st Thursday of each month from 7:00-8:30pm in Room 3101. This group also meets on the 3rd Saturday afternoon, 12-2 pm, Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway in Church Annex. For more info, call 334.652.1431 or email dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com.
Loc Stri Div tion and
Loc Stre
Loc Hw
Ga 542
an hol dre tion 284
Loc Gri chu
Loc Gri p.m
Loc Mo Mo for thr of e Sca 567 gm Mo
Lo Gri Fri 285 car you
Divorce
Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care is held Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm. Childcare available. $15 for workbook. Dinner at 4:45 ($5 adults, $3 kids). Call Kathy Cooper at 241-5125. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Divorce Recovery Support Group meets each Tuesday, at 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272-8622.
1
101
ach
Location: The Special Grind, Pratt’s Mill Shopping Strip, 2096 Highway 14 DivorceCare, Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. For more information, dates and time changes visit www.fbcprattville.org and click the DivorceCare link.
Gambling
Location: Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 US HWY 231 (Across from the WinnDixie shopping center) Wetumpka. Saturdays @ 7pm. 334-567-7534 Location: Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. Location: St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy, Mondays @ 6pm.
hn
ter.
Gamblers Anonymous Hotline number: 334-5415420
Grief
at
Location: Eastmont Baptist, 4505 Atlanta Hwy. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child meeting first Tuesdays at 7 pm. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 284-2721. We will also collect Toys for Tots.
g
Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm in the church parlor. Call 365-5977.
D at
day
mes at
1.
-
Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief Ministry is a grief recovery support group that meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M. The ministry is designed to help anyone through the hurt of losing a loved one by successfully traveling the journey from mourning to joy. Alicia Glover is the coordinator. For information contact Glover at 334-281-2754.
Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms, and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 9:30—11:30 a.m. Childcare is provided. For info e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.
Physical Challenges
Miscellaneous
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) This group provides understanding, education and information to family members & friends of those who suffer mental illness. This group will meet on the second Monday of each month from 6:30-8:30 in room 3103. For more information contact Mary Jo Logan (334) 271-2280. Location: 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. OCD Support Group (obsessive- Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand washing, rituals, checking stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Call Donald: 220-7555.
Parenting
Location: First Baptist
Prattville, 138 S. Washington Moms LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) meets twice monthly from 8:30 - 11:45 am in the chapel at the Church from Aug - May. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guest, special guest speakers and a lot of fun!! Cost is $5 per meeting. For moms of all stages and ages of life. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call April Scott at 828-446-6666. Location: First Baptist Church, Montgomery 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Go to www.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.
Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105, in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272.8622.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information.
Location: Grace Baptist Church, 304 Old Montgomery Highway, Wetumpka Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. Meets the last Thursday night of each month. For more information, contact Alice Scarborough (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@ gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.
Location: Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more information, email t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook—SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) for daily restaurant specials, area kid friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.
Location: Millbrook FUMC, 3350 Edgewood Rd Grief Share meets – Tuesday 5:30 PM in the Friendship Sunday School Class Room. Call 285-4114 for more info. Grief Share is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experience.
Location: Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Road Single Moms’ Care and Support Group meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15 - 8:00 PM. December meeting will be on the 11th. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants -16 years. Call 272-3174 for information.
25
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Visually Impaired Support Group – Meets monthly on second Thursday 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. The group is called Outward Sight - Inward Vision and is for those with vision loss and their caregivers. Our mission is to assist those experiencing vision loss to maintain their independence by providing access to valuable information and spiritual support. Call 272-6152. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An MDA/ALS Support Group will meet Tuesday August 10 6:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in room 3101. Anyone who is affected by a neuromuscular disease or family members of those affected are encouraged to attend. To receive information, please call 396-4534. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Parkinson’s Support Group will meet the 4th Thursday at 6 p.m., in room 8114 at Frazer UMC. This group is for those who have Parkinson’s disease and the family members. 272-8622. Location: Taylor Road Baptist Church, 1785 Taylor Rd., Montgomery Gluten Intolerance Group of Montgomery meets on 2nd Thursdays from 6-7 p.m. Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings and other info at www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com.
Singlehood
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Singles’ Small Groups meet each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy T.N.T. (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles meets Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, bldg. 7000. A meal ($5.00) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622. Location: Cornerstone Christian, 301 Dalraida Rd. Unavoidably Single Again (USA) Fellowship, a support group for widows and widowers. Informal meetings for fellowship and fun are held on the third Saturday of each month starting at 10 AM. Contact Lynda at farauthor@ aol.com or 354-8869.
Veterans
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets on the 3rd Wednesday from 11am-1pm in Room 3108. Contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.
Email your support group info to deanne@ readjourneymagazine.com! December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Unwrapping THE Gift! John 14:27: “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” Is it already happening in your house-gifts wrapped in beautiful festive paper, with perfectly tied bows, stacking up under the Christmas tree? It’s that time again. Our homes are decorated, our budgets are probably stretched thin, all as we attempt once again to focus on the reason for the season. I love Christmas time. I love the aroma of special dishes being cooked for family gatherings, the sparkling lights on houses and trees, the excitement of children as they await Santa’s visit and the fellowship with believers who feel humbled to celebrate the birth of our Savior. As I get older, the wrapped gifts under the tree seem more excessive than celebratory. Sure, I love seeing my daughter open gifts, but what I want more than anything is to know she’s unwrapped THE gift. I want her to know the peace that comes from believing in Jesus Christ. I once interviewed a young man in Auburn who can’t walk, has little use of his arms and was rapidly losing his eyesight. He wrote a book called, “I Do What I Can”. It’s the story of his life--what it’s like to grow up with a debilitating disease. This is a young man who has two degrees from Auburn. I asked him where he finds his strength, his desire to keep going and smiling. He said during his time at Auburn, members of a Christian fellowship River Region’s Journey
December 2014
became his support team. They helped him get bathed and dressed for class and out the door. And there he sat, years later, telling me he gave his life to the Lord and decided to trust Him fully. He said, “I can’t explain it exactly, but good things are happening, they really are! Some may look at me in this wheelchair and say how can he say good things are happening, but they are.” He’s unwrapped THE gift. In the words of John 14:27, the gift of peace is the gift of salvation, a certainty in this life and beyond. In one of my Bibles describing the Gospel of John it reads, “The beautiful material found in chapters 14-17 reveals the deep love of Jesus for the believers and the peace that comes from faith in him.” Our Savior gives us so many gifts, so freely. We don’t deserve them, in fact we can’t do anything to deserve them, but we can receive them. How? Believe in Jesus, nurture your faith by reading His Word, spend time in prayer, reach out to others, allow your faith to shine, share THE gift with others, and realize God wants to bless you richly. A young woman in our church said something to me one Christmas that I’m quite sure will resonate with me for the rest of my life. This young lady almost died many years ago in a serious car 26
accident that left her in a coma. She had to learn to walk and talk again, and now needs someone with her most of the time. I sat down behind Meghan and her mom three days before Christmas. I tapped Meghan on the shoulder and said, “Meghan, are you ready for Christmas?” She smiled and said, “I haven’t bought gift one, so I’m not ready to give, but I am ready to receive!” Meghan has a beautiful childlike faith with deep spiritual wisdom… I knew what she meant. She was ready to receive the gift of our Lord and Savior! She has unwrapped the gift and lives with a peace that can only come from God. Too many of us are walking through life carrying this great big gift that’s never been unwrapped. He gave it to us freely, now it’s up to us to receive it. My prayer is that you and your loved ones will tear into this gift with reckless abandon. As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let others see the peace that only He can give. Dear Lord, you are the great provider. Everything we need comes from your hands. Thank you for a peace that transcends all understanding. May we know you, love you, receive you and share you. Amen.
Q
bu pa co go loa do $5
A.
the he wit So bu dro
po jus old wo cra ac the the go up Th
sh ho Th for go
Q
am va
A.
the the Le
yo $3 of un $1 ea
d
,
”
t
dy
t.
r e
h er ,
d
ur
re
Q. My daughter is a freshman in college, but I didn’t save for her education. My parents said it was my job to pay for my college, and that’s what I’ve told her. She’s going to have about $12,000 in student loan debt after her first year, but how do I talk to her about not ending up with $50,000 in debt when she’s through? A. If you want her to pay for college, then, as her dad, you have to coach her on how she’s supposed to come up with the money and manage it properly. So, you’re going to have to get real busy, real fast unless you want her to be drowning in debt when she graduates. I think you owe her a leg up at this point. Twelve thousand dollars doesn’t just magically appear in an 18-yearold’s hands. I’m perfectly okay with kids working through college and parents cracking the whip when it comes to acting responsibly. But if you expect them to pay for it, you first have to show them how to do that. Otherwise, they’re going to hit the default button and wind up $50,000 in debt when they graduate. That’s a really bad plan! If you have some money, I think you should help her along while teaching her how to make money, save and budget. Then, maybe she’ll be prepared to pay for her last couple of years with some good, hard work! Q. How do you sell a vehicle with a lien
amount that’s higher than the actual value of the car?
A. First, you have to find a way to cover the difference between the amount of the lien and what you can get for the car. Let’s look at an example. If the car is worth $15,000, and you owe $18,000, that would leave you $3,000 in the hole. How do you get out of that car? The bank holds the title, and until you give them the payoff amount of $18,000, you’re not getting the title. The easiest and simplest way would be if
you had $3,000 on hand to make up the difference. But if someone comes along and buys the car from you for $15,000, you’ve got to be able to cover the remaining $3,000, right? Barring the best-case scenario where you actually have the money, you could go to a local bank or credit union and borrow the remaining $3,000. I hate debt, but being $3,000 in the hole is a lot better than $18,000 in the hole. Then, you could turn around and pay back the $3,000 quickly. After that, you’d give the total amount owed to the bank. They would give you the title, and you sign it over to the new owner. That’s how it works!
have done some work and cleaned up your finances. You’ve got a bunch of debt hanging over your heads, and the truck you mentioned is a big part of the problem. Sell the truck and move down to something very inexpensive to drive for a little while. Then tear into the remainder of the debt and get it paid off as fast as you can. After that, save up a bunch of money so you can go to school debt-free. I know that may seem like a long time before you can start school, but chances are you can get this done in less than two years. And trust me, going to school debtfree will feel a whole lot better than having another bunch of payments buzzing around your heads for years to come!
Q. My husband and I both work two jobs. Together we make about $53,000 a year, and we’re trying to get out of debt. We have $35,000 in debt, and most of that is on our truck. I’d like to go back to school and become an ultrasound technician, so we’ll have more money. Do you think this is a good idea? A. Getting more education is always a good idea. For starters, I’d begin doing some research to find out what ultrasound technicians in your area are earning. Then, look into the cost of training at a nearby school. But I would only recommend starting school after you guys 27
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
su Ch to co
4. Je
da co pu ily for cu to to lik dro na an giv
5. ch da
ora tab ha ac We keep one of our family treasures in a white cardboard box, tucked in a corner of our attic … until each December. That’s when it’s carried down the stairs into our den. After carefully removing the yellowed newspaper protecting the handmade figures, one by one the pieces are revealed: a shepherd, a wiseman, a donkey, an angel, a cow, Mary, Joseph, and of course…baby Jesus. It’s tradition. For more than two decades my husband and I have made certain that every figure is there. After all, our nativity would be incomplete if just one piece were missing. Can you imagine a nativity set without a figure of baby Jesus? Can you imagine Christmas without Christ? This Christmas, let’s keep Christ at the center of our celebrations. Here are ten ideas that can help connect hearts and homes to Him:
1. Bring the story of Christ’s birth to life. After
reading Luke 2:1-20, locate Bethlehem River Region’s Journey
December 2014
on a biblical map. You can use a map from the back of your Bible or a Bible atlas. Depending on the ages of your children, you may want to compare the biblical map with a current map of the world. (Bethlehem is near Jerusalem.) Also, look at the daily newspaper and discuss how this same area of the world is still in the news today. Encourage young children to reenact the story. Use sheets and blankets to make costumes. You could cast the family dog as a donkey. A teenage son or daughter may enjoy directing the play.
2. Create a “Tree of Light.”
Set a small tree/plant (live or artificial) on a tabletop. Fill a container with either handmade or purchased stars, and place it at the base of the tree. Children could enjoy decorating paper stars with glitter. (Attach a loop of string or yarn to the top of each star.) As a family, read some Scriptures about Jesus being the Light of the world (such as John 8:12, John 9:5, John 12:46). Then, put the first star at the top of your Tree of Light. Read Matthew 5:14, “You are the 28
light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Encourage family members to allow the love of Jesus to shine through them during the holiday season. Invite them to secretly hang a star on the Tree of Light whenever they allow Christ’s love to glow through them in a meaningful way. (Another option would be to hang stars when family members see others displaying the light of Christ.)
3. Share the Christmas message through What God Wants for Christmas.
This resource from FamilyLife helps children understand not only the meaning of Christmas but the type of relationship God desires to have with us. Each evening for a week, open one of the seven What God Wants for Christmas gift boxes and read the accompanying section of the illustrated poem. This can even be done long distance—over the phone. Last Christmas, I mailed the resource to our oldest granddaughter, and then my husband or I talked to her every evening for a week. It was
such fun to read the What God Wants for Christmas narrative and then to ask her to “open the box.” Sometimes she just couldn’t wait for our call, so she’d call us.
4. Give “birthday gifts” to Jesus. Wrap a box in colorful holi-
day tissue and cut a slit in the lid. Fill a container with blank slips of paper and put it by the box. Brainstorm, as a family, about possible gifts for the Savior for Christmas (patience, love for a difficult person, sacrificial giving, ministry to needy person, etc.). Then ask them to write a description of the gift they’d like to give on a slip of paper and to drop it in the wrapped box—without names. Open the box on Christmas day and see what presents the family has given Jesus for His birthday.
5. Begin “orangitude checks” during the holidays. Keep a bowl filled with
oranges in the center of the dinner table. One evening, slice an orange in half and squeeze it into a glass. Ask a child to drink the juice that’s in the
glass and then say, “What does it taste like?” (Of course, the answer should be orange juice.) Then discuss, as a family, people’s actions during the sometimeshectic Christmas season. What comes out when they are “squeezed”? Repeat this activity one or two more times during the holidays. Discuss family members’ experiences as they try to model Christ’s love, even when they are “squeezed.”
6. Prepare the manger for baby Jesus. Fill a basket with
straw and place it near your nativity set. When family members do something special for Jesus (anonymously), they can leave a piece of straw in the manger—examples: being kind, sacrificial, generous, and patient. Another option is for family members to put straw in the manger when they see loved ones modeling the character of Christ during the holidays. Before the Christmas story is read on Christmas morning, Mom or Dad can lay the figure of Baby Jesus on top of the straw bed that the family has prepared for Him.
7. Announce the birth of a king. After reading Luke 2:1-20,
family members can share how they would announce the birth of a king. Where would they arrange for the infant king to stay? (You could make paper horns for the children to use for their announcements.) Then talk about the way Baby Jesus entered the world more than 2,000 years ago. Be sure that the children understand that He was placed in a manger, which held food for livestock. Ask them why they think Jesus was born in a manger … why was there no room for Him in the inn? Then read Revelations 11:15, “…There were loud voices in heaven, saying, ‘The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever.’” Talk about how Jesus will come again to reign and to rule as our King.
8. Consider the feelings of Mary and Joseph. For older children, read Matthew 1:18-25 and then discuss:
y
ey
n-
nyhis
he
29
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
* How could Mary, a virgin, have felt when she discovered that she was pregnant? * How could Joseph have felt when he learned of Mary’s pregnancy? * Why did both Joseph and Mary have the courage to believe God and undoubtedly suffer ridicule from man? * Who do they (and you) turn to when life is not what they anticipated? * Why can we always trust God even when His ways are different from ours?
9. As a family, adopt a needy child or family at Christmas. Not only shop for their physi-
cal wants, but also give spiritual helps such as a Bible or a book with Christian themes. Pray for them throughout the upcoming year. Pray for their salvation, spiritual growth, and that they will look to God to meet their needs.
be to of als wa
10. Record family prayer requests. Ask each family member to jot down personal prayer requests for the next year. Place the list inside individual envelopes (with names on the front). After your Christmas celebration, enclose the envelopes inside a box containing the nativity set or special ornaments. Next year, before you assemble your nativity set, take time to open the envelopes, praise God for answered prayer, and pray together for needs that have not yet been met.
inc me Ad wi Ho
Used with permission from FamilyLife.
an can for ne ev Ch sec res An ad bro
An
1– Go (N
2– Af and
3– Go Ga rec
4– Ab ple La
5– Th sia River Region’s Journey
December 2014
30
25: A Spiritual Advent-ure The Christmas season provides the believer in Christ an incredible opportunity to retrace events leading up to the coming of Jesus and surrounding His birth. We can also consider how we can respond in a fresh way to the reality of His coming. During the 25 days leading up to and including Christmas Day, I invite you to join me for what I am calling, 25: A Spiritual Advent-ure. I have four sections, which I will highlight on the air on The Meeting House on Faith Radio: The first 7-day section involves the anticipation, centered around some significant events throughout the Old Testament foreshadowing the coming of Jesus. For the next 7 days, I will focus on the arrival, the events immediately preceding and including Christ’s birth. The focus of the next 7-day section will be the alteration, including the responses of the shepherds, Simeon, and Anna. The final, 4-day section is called the adoration, centered on the Wise Men, who brought gifts to Jesus and worshipped Him. Join me for this proposed “Advent-ure”:
Anticipation…
1 – Start at the Beginning (Genesis 1:26) God said, “Let Us make man in Our image (NKJV),” which I believe points to a triune God. 2 – Promise of Victory (Genesis 3:15) After humanity fell, the Word of God was spoken and victory predicted. 3 – Special Man, Special People (Genesis 12:3) God made a covenant with Abram (Abraham). Galatians 3 says that by faith, we have become recipients of the blessing of Abraham. 4 – God Will Provide the Lamb (Genesis 22:14) Abraham was willing to sacrifice His own son to please God, who sent His own Son – Jesus, the Lamb of God - to be our perfect sacrifice for sin. 5 – A Child Will Come (Isaiah 9:6-7) This passage presents a clear picture of the Messiah and His spiritual Kingdom.
6 – The Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53:3-5) This presents a different picture of the Messiah, who would endure suffering. 7 – Where He Will Be Born (Micah 5:2) The Bible states that our Savior would be born in Bethlehem.
Arrival…
8 – Zechariah and Elizabeth (Luke 1:5-25) Prior to a 400-year period of silence from the prophets, Malachi pointed to the coming of Elijah - Luke 1 says that John the Baptist would come in the spirit of Elijah.
they shared what they had seen – and people marveled! 18 – Mary Ponders the Events (Luke 2:19) Mary was thoughtful about the circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus. 19 – The Shepherds Rejoice (Luke 2:20) The shepherds gave praise to the Lord for what they had seen and heard. 20 – Simeon Beholds the Christ Child (Luke 2:25-35) Simeon was a man who recognized that Jesus would bring salvation.
9 – Mary Receives a Visit (Luke 1:26-35) The angel, Gabriel, appeared to Mary, announcing that her child would be the Savior of the world.
21 – Anna Gives Thanks (Luke 2:36-38) Anna beheld Jesus and realized His significance.
10 – Joseph Receives a Visit (Matthew 1:18-23) God also sent an angel to Joseph, who was engaged to Mary, to unveil His plan to him.
22 – Wise Men Seek the Child (Matthew 2:1-9) These Magi (Wise Men) followed a star to Jerusalem and sought out King Herod, who was troubled and asked where the Messiah was to be born.
11 – Journey to Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-5) The census and the subsequent journey strategically positioned Mary and Joseph for Jesus’ birth. 12 – The Birth of Jesus (Luke 2:6-7) The anticipation of the ages culminated in humble conditions, as Jesus was born as a baby. 13 ¬ They Called Him Jesus (Matthew 1:25) That name signified that Jesus would save God’s people from their sins. 14 – The Word Became Flesh (John 1:4) Jesus embodied the Word of God. He was God in the flesh, the perfect substitute for our sins.
Alteration…
15 - Shepherds Receive the News (Luke 2:8-14) The angels made the glorious announcement to a seemingly improbable group, perhaps a reminder that Christ came for all. 16 – The Shepherds Hurry to the Manger (Luke 2:15-16) The shepherds wasted no time as they went to see the Christ Child. 17 – The Shepherds Spread the News (Luke 2:17-18) Once they had seen Jesus, 31
The Adoration…
23 – Wise Men Worship Jesus (Matthew 2:10-11) The Wise Men saw the star again, and rejoiced. When they beheld Jesus, they worshipped Him. 24 – Wise Men Present Gifts (Matthew 2:11) They brought gifts to the Christ Child. 25 – Wise Men Go Home By Another Way (Matthew 2:12) The Wise Men were told in a dream not to return to Herod.
The Wise Men experienced a course correction of their journey. I would hope that throughout the Advent season, you would allow God to show you where your course can be corrected, and allow the Spirit of God to lead you in a deeper way.
Bob Crittenden is host of “The Meeting House”, heard weekday afternoons from 4-6pm on Faith Radio, 89.1FM in Montgomery. Described as “the intersection of faith and culture”, the program features Christian music and conversation about a variety of topics. Learn more by visiting www. meetinghouseonline.info. December 2014
River Region’s Journey
December 2014 Community Calendar Check out our Christmas Events Guide in this month’s issue for many more December happenings. Tuesday, December 2
Christchurch Candlelight Harpsichord Concert. Enjoy elegant harpsichord chamber music concert by candlelight at 6 P.M. in the beautiful sanctuary of Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road. Immediately following the concert, there will be a Champagne Dessert Reception in Canterbury Hall. Tickets ($25.00) for this gathering may be obtained from the church (334-387-0566 ext. 203) beginning Wednesday, November 5th,. All proceeds and designated offerings will benefit the Christchurch Pipe Organ Fund.
December 2-7
Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas. Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. This event will take place at 1455 Claud Road, just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. Please call 578.4846 or visit our website at www.aneclecticministry.org. If registering through the website, your reservation will be confirmed as soon as possible. Admission is free, and donations are accepted and appreciated to help with expenses.
Thursday, December 4
An Evening with Third Day at 7 pm, Montgomery Performing Arts Center at the Renaissance. Visit ticketmaster.com!
Saturday, December 6
An Evening of Fashion at 6 pm; Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist, West Campus. Advanced Tickets are $10, Day of the Show $15, Children ages 6-12, $5 and children ages 5 and under are free. Performing Guests: Pastor Ibrahim Lee, Gospel Recording Artist Cheryl Whorter, Pierre Watkins, Kenyanna Blakely, Comedian De’ Anthony Turner and Silent Pra’Zers Mime River Region’s Journey
December 2014
Ministry. For more information, call Event Coordinator Yvette Bartee at 334-294-4485.
Ongoing Happenings AGLOW International meets every third Thursday, 9:30 at the Montgomery House of Prayer. All women welcome to join together for praise, prayer and an anointed message. Contact mboudousquie@yahoo.com. Bridge of Life Assembly of God, 9000 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, holds Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. each week. Sunday school classes meet at 9:30 a.m. We offer classes for all age groups and childcare is provided. Our goal is to build bridges...not walls. We invite you to come join us if you need to learn how to build those bridges. For directions or information call 334-396-0208. Email jon@bridgeoflife.tv or visit www.bridgeoflife.tv. Central Community Christian Church, 981 South Perry Street, Montgomery, holds new members training classes on Sundays at 9 a.m. Sunday School (9:30), morning worship (11:00), Tuesday night Bible study (6:30). Every fourth Sunday of the month is our youth Sunday. For more information please call (334) 269-0457 or by email at centralccchurch1@gmail.com. We are a church where you can be you, you can be loved and where you can grow! Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, offers a Women’s Enrichment Bible Study led by Jeanne Dean on Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., in Canterbury Hall. All women are welcome. Childcare for ages birth-4 years is provided. Call 387-0566 x 201 for more info. Christchurch offers a men’s Bible study led by Fr. John-Michael van Dyke, on Thursday mornings on the 11th floor of Goode Medical Bldg, Jackson Hospital. Breakfast is served beginning at 6:45 a.m. and teaching begins at 7:15 a.m. Call 387-0566 x 201. Chisholm Baptist Church, 2938 Lower Wetumpka Road, Montgomery, holds Sunday morning Bible study (9:30), Morning worship (10:45), Tuesday prayer breakfast (8:30) Wednesday evening prayer service (6 pm) and Senior Body and Soul Group (every 1st Tuesday at 1 pm). Email jbass9784@charter. net or call 262-6437. First Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, hosts Family Night every Wednesday beginning at 5:20 p.m. with supper, followed by a study on prayer. Everyone is welcome. For more information call (279-1372). First Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, hosts a Men’s Prayer Breakfast every Friday morning, 6 a.m. 32
The Youth of First United Methodist Church, Montgomery every Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. for Wednesday Night Live, a time of praise and worship in “the attic”. Also, every Sunday night at 6:00 p.m. is MYF which includes a snack supper $3.00 followed by activities, small groups and lots of fun! Visit www.fumcmontgomery.org. First United Methodist Church will host Terrific Tuesdays. Please come and join us for fellowship, a program and lunch. Terrific Tuesdays will meet each Tuesday in room 204 of Wesley Hall. Fellowship time will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a program at 10:30 a.m. and lunch at 11:30 a.m. The cost of lunch is $2.50. For additional information please contact NeeNee Webb at 834-8990. Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@frazerumc.org. Good News @ Noon is an interdenominational Bible study, held at the First Baptist Community Ministries Building on Adams Street, Thursdays, at noon. Small cost for hot lunch. Call 272.1133. Hall Memorial CME Church, 541 Seibles Road, Montgomery, offers Bible Study Tuesdays at 5:30 P.M. and Wednesdays at 6: 30 P.M. For directions or information call 334-288-0577. Email HallMemorialCME1@aol.com or visit www.HallMemorialCME.blogspot.com. Hall Memorial CME Church says: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Tutors, prayer-warriors, and office/clerical volunteers needed for the Montgomery City Jail Ministry & G.E.D program. Opportunities are ongoing. No experience or certification necessary. Contact Pastor Anderson T. Graves II, at hallmemorialcme1@aol.com. Call 334-288-0577. The City Jail ministry is an in-reach ministry of Hall Memorial CME Church, 541 Seibles Road, Montgomery. Macedonia Miracle Kingdom & Worship Center (MMKWC), 3070 Selma Highway, Montgomery, services are Sunday School and New Members Class, 9:00 a.m., Morning Worship, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesday Night Bible Class, 7:00 p.m. and Friday Night Prayer, 6:00 p.m. (BOTH at The Pattern-Mt Meigs Road) Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, invites all to Wonderful Wednesdays starting with a $3-5 meal at 5:30 pm (RSVP 277-4213 by Monday noon), worship with eucharist 6:15-7:00 pm, and adult choir rehearsal and Catechism class for 7th-9th graders at 7:00 pm. Please call for Wednesday schedule due to seasonal breaks. For information, call 277-4213.
Mt 332 Stu for roa tea the beg Bib p.m
Ne Sh day day
Op De Pra day Co the and to 334 Pe sor Ha 9A are inf
F d sit
Mt. Gillard Missionary Baptist Church, 3323 Day Street, holds Wednesday Bible Study in the church Fellowship Hall and lasts for one hour. Please come and participate in roaming the Bible learning God’s word through teaching. The Rev. Henry M. Carnegie, Jr. is the teacher and pastor. Mid-day Bible Study begins each Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Evening Bible Study begins each Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Call 233-8750.
of 00
New Freedom Worship Center, 6004 –A East Shirley Lane, Apostle T. Briggs~ Pastor; Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday Night Bible Study 7:30 p.m.
,
Nee
odur.
nal y s, 3.
ys
nd
Open Door Christian Faith Church, 1601 Dewey St. Montgomery, offers Women’s Prayer Mondays at 5:00, Men’s prayer Wednesday at 5:00, followed by bible study at 6:00. Couples ministry held every 1st Wednesday of the month at 7:00. Pastor William Cromblin, and the Open Door Church family invites you to “come experience the move of God. Call 334-269-6498. Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Rd, sponsors a Bluegrass Jam in the Church Fellowship Hall on the third Saturday of each month from 9AM - 12AM. All Bluegrass Artist plus Fans are invited to attend. Attendance is FREE. For information call Kathy@ 272-3174.
Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Rd, hosts a Wednesday Night Supper and Revive! program each week from 5:30pm til 7:00pm. Reservations are required by noon on the Monday prior to the supper. Cost is $4 per person or $12 per family. Call 334-272-3174 for more information.
Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, offers S.N.A.G. (Sunday Nights About God!) This program starts at 5:00p.m. and ends at 6:30p.m. Childcare is provided for small groups until 7:00p.m. Don’t forget this program is available for all children!
River City Church, 301 Dexter Avenue, offers a Friday Christian Night Club (free of alcohol and smoking) with Ballroom Dancing every Friday at 6:30 P.M. Cost is $10 for a one hour lesson, devotional, and 3 hours of DJ music. All denominations welcome. 7:30-10:30 open dance floor.
Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, offers Wild & Wacky Wednesdays! Wednesday night supper starts at 5:15p.m. We will start checking children in at 6:00p.m. This program ends at 7:30p.m. and childcare is provided until 8:00p.m. for small group participants. Call 277.3037 for more info.
The River of Life Church, located at 116 County Road 40 E (in the Pine Level Community Center) Prattville. Pastor Nick Edwards invites you to a “Place of New Beginnings”, where families come and grow together. Church Service Schedule: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship; 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship. Wednesday 6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study, Teens (Genesis Project), Jr. High (Limitless), Royal Rangers, MPact Girls, Rainbow’s/Noah’s Zoo Club. Thursday 9:00 a.m.Women of Grace Bible Study. Nursery provided. We invite you to”come experience God in a personal way, feel loved by all and know that you belong”. Call the church office 334-657-0392 or visit www. theriveroflifechurch.net.
Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, 706 E. Patton Avenue, “Clothes Closet” is open to the public each Thursday morning from 10 a.m. – Noon. The Men of Saint Paul host a free Men’s Prayer Breakfast the Third Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. in the Church Fellowship Hall. The Men’s Prayer Breakfast is open to all men of all ages. Come and share your concerns and needs of our Men of today. For more information, please contact (334) 354-1897. Bible Study is held each Wednesday, 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Pastor Farrell J. Duncombe is the teacher and Senior Pastor of the church. Come and join us for Sunday School each Sunday at 9 a.m. and Morning Worship at 10 a.m. Need transportation, call (334) 264-7618. For info call 286.8577 or www. saintpaulamemontgomery.com.
The Dentists of Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, P.C. want you to...
n
ch,
Live Life Smiling!
p ,
ng
rs
John H. Payne, IV D.M.D.
J. David Stanley, D.M.D.
R. Davis Denney, D.M.D.
Montgomery Location 2600 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 277-6690
Robert H. Owen, Jr. D.M.D., M.S. Prattville Location 460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, AL 36066 (334) 358-6411
Follow us on www.SmilesFromUs.com
33
December 2014
River Region’s Journey
December 2014 Community Calendar
S-STOP, a commUNITY Bible study for Singles. Souls Strengthened Together for One Purpose. Psalm 46:10 “BE STILL and know that I am God.” Meets at Prattville Christian Academy on Sunday nights at 6 p.m. For info email sstop04@gmail. com.
Vision Full Gospel Ministries, 163 Rifle Range Road, Montgomery, holds Bible Study Tues. Night 7:00 p.m., Pray & Praise 2nd & 4th Thurs. Night 7:00 p.m., Sunday School 9:30 am, Sunday Worship Service 10:45 a.m., Internet radio-homecominggospel.com Sunday 3:00p.m. Central & 4:00 p.m. Eastern. and Satellite Radio -wlsg 1340am Sunday 3:00p.m.
fav wi sen hap
Women at The Well Ministry invites you to attend its women’s fellowship at 1 pm every 1st and 3rd Saturday. We are women who desire and have a heart to see broken, crushed, hurting women be transformed through the one man who can fulfill their every need... JESUS...THE POTTER. All women of all denominations or race are welcome. This ministry is available to teenagers as well. Come join us as we lift, encourage and build each other up through the Word of God and the words of our testimonies. For more information contact Evangelist Dr. Linda McCall, 334-220-1924.
Fo t
thi had 8:2 tha firs Mi op of his the hap too rea ven lea of Po cha fou ven tha gag int din
Send your events to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com.
rie im the Sa Pa sch mo lea is a res River Region’s Journey
December 2014
34
In All Things (Romans 8:28) Romans 8:28 has long been one of my favorite Bible verses--a “life verse” if you will, that has helped define my life and make sense of the seemingly senseless things that happen in a life time: For we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Mike and I have just returned from our third mission trip to Cuba in 12 months. We had a Romans 8:28 experience that started on our first day in country. Mike was trying to open a small bag of peanuts with his teeth when the unthinkable happened--his front tooth which was really a porcelain veneer--popped off, leaving a stump of a tooth that couldn’t be hidden or ignored. Poor Mike was distressed at the sudden change in his appearance! He momentarily found solace as he was able to “glue” the veneer back in place using some dental glue that a fellow traveler had brought in their luggage; however, it didn’t last long, shattering into several pieces as soon as he bit down at dinner. My now snaggle-toothed husband worried for a while about what kind of “firstimpression” he was going to make with all the fathers and mothers. Leading up to the Saturday workshop on Character-Centered Parenting, Mike had three smaller workshops scheduled with the dads, followed by the moms, and then the four marriage and family leadership couples. Fortunately, Romans 8:28 is also one of Mike’s favorite verses. As a result, Mike quickly realized that he could use
the missing tooth to help teach two parenting concepts: planned and unplanned challenges. For example, the scheduled workshop was a “planned challenge” the required preparation in order to accomplish. However, the missing tooth was an “unplanned challenge” to be faced and overcome. Then, during the first workshop when Mike asked everyone to laugh when he smiled his snaggle-toothed smile, he noticed that many of our Cuban friends were also missing teeth. And while we knew our dentist would be able to repair
the tooth as soon as we returned home, the Cubans didn’t have that reassurance. If they lost a tooth, as many do, then it was gone forever. For we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Mike realized that God would use this tooth crisis for His good--he just didn’t know how. Later, after we returned home, one of Mike’s Bible study buddies pointed out that Mike had requested they all pray that God would make a way to help him connect with and identify with other fathers in Cuba. God answered that prayer in an unexpected way by forcing Mike to swallow his pride and become more like his fellow man in appearance. Another Romans 8:28 story was shared with us a few weeks before we left for Cuba. 35
In our Family Teams for Christ Sunday School training program, we are learning about “Our Spiritual Journey.” While discussing how significant emotional events affect our walk with the Lord, a young wife shared with the group about a stressful time in her life when she lost her job. Her identity was wrapped around who she was in that job, and she was crushed when that was taken away from her. The tone of her story changed when she related how very supportive her husband was. She survived that difficult time-that significant emotional event--because of his belief in her and his faithful encouragement. Looking back, they both realized it was a defining moment in their history as a couple. God used the loss of her job to show her that she could depend upon her husband’s love and support, even during the difficult times. A challenging time in their marriage was used by God to strengthen their relationship with Him and their marriage forever. What Romans 8:28 moment have you experienced? Think back to a time when you were challenged by circumstance, only to realize later that God used that challenge for good, according to his purpose. I am grateful that we serve a God who is always working the difficulties we face for our good, according to his purpose. Lt. Col Mike Conn and wife, Lisa, founded Covenant Family Ministries when Mike retired from the Air Force in 1997. CFM is an independent marriage and family education ministry committed to partnering with churches, organizations, and individuals in Montgomery and across Alabama to build Family Teams for Christ. Married for over 33 years, Mike and Lisa have three daughters, two sons-in-law, and three grandchildren. December 2014
River Region’s Journey
Movie Reviews Reviews provided by MovieGuide: A Family Guide to Movies and Entertainment Ratings are based on production quality and moral acceptability. See details below. ***Reviews do not necessarily reflect views of the publishers of River Region’s Journey.
The Hunger Games:
Mockingjay Part 1
Little Hope Was Arson
Production Quality: **** Moral Acceptability: -1 (Caution) Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Donald Sutherland, Woody Harrelson, Julianne Moore, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci Genre: Science Fiction Audience: Teenagers and adults Rating: PG-13 Content: No foul language or scatological issues; strong violence includes images of dead bodies, people storming the walls while being shot at and dying, government shoots multiple people in the head with bags over their faces, wounded patients in a hospital, hospital is blown up but seen from a distance, male character tries to strangle main character, and main character goes unconscious, explosions, character mentions he wishes he was dead along with the other tributes instead of enduring what they had to endure; no sexual immorality, but one light kiss, character sleeps next to other character to comfort her, but scene doesn’t imply sex. THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 1 opens with Katniss Everdeen waking up wondering what happened to her friend, Peeta. After sacrificing herself to end the brutal Hunger Games, Katniss has been recovering in the underground District 13. The president of the District and another leader ask Katniss to be the Mockingjay, the leader of the rebellion against the tyrannical government and its evil dictator. After finding out her own district has been destroyed, Katniss decides to take on this role and fight for everyone’s freedom. THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY – PART 1 is entertaining and suspenseful. Jennifer Lawrence gives another appealing performance as the heroine. The storyline has less action than the first two movies and is more about the heroine’s romantic interest in Peeta, but the filmmakers don’t let this become too sappy. MOCKINGJAY, PART 1 has a strong moral, redemptive worldview promoting liberty. The heroine shows empathy for those in need and is willing to sacrifice herself for them. MOCKINGJAY has some intense scenes and strong action violence, so caution is advised for children.
Production Quality: **** Moral Acceptability: +4 (Exemplary) Genre: Documentary Audience: Older children to adults Rating: Not Rated Content: Very strong Christian worldview about the burning 10 churches in East Texas with many discussions of salvation, faith, discipleship, forgiveness, repentance; two light obscenities; strong discussions of violent destruction of churches, with discussions of attempted suicide, discussions of “pulling the plug”; discussions of sexual activity; no nudity; no alcohol; discussions of drug use; and, woman protects family so she won’t be a snitch but does so at the detriment of other people. LITTLE HOPE WAS ARSON is a riveting documentary about solving the 2010 arson of 10 churches within 40 miles of each other in East Texas. The number of churches involved made the national news. The authorities try to find evidence concerning two young, troubled suspects. Meanwhile, the church pastors and their congregants try to figure out how to deal with the enormity of the crimes and the importance of the Gospel, which includes forgiveness. LITTLE HOPE WAS ARSON asks significant questions, all of which lead to an appreciation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s one of those rare documentaries that has potential at the box office because it’s structured like a dramatic story. The first half is full of jeopardy. The second half has a wonderful dynamic quality. LITTLE HOPE WAS ARSON discusses arson, potential suicide, drugs, and other tremendous problems, but never goes over the edge, never becomes salacious, and never makes any of this attractive to the audience. LITTLE HOPE WAS ARSON reveals both the sinfulness of man and our desperate need for Jesus Christ. It’s well worth watching.
The previous reviews are a selected sample of informative reviews from MOVIEGUIDE: A FAMILY GUIDE TO MOVIES AND ENTERTAINMENT, a syndicated feature of Good News Communications, Inc. To subscribe to MOVIEGUIDE which includes a complete set of at least 10 reviews of the latest movies as well as many informative articles, please visit our web site at www.movieguide.org or write or call:”MOVIEGUIDE,” P.O. Box 190010, Atlanta, GA 31119 (800) 899-6684. What the ratings mean: Production Quality: (1 to 4 stars) Moral Acceptability: -4 (Abhorrent), -3 (Excessive), -2 (Extreme Caution), -1 (Caution), +1 (Wholesome), +2 (Good), +3 (Moral), +4 (Exemplary) River Region’s Journey
December 2014
36
GOAL: • Encourage participants to eat less and move more (hopefully losing at least 1 pound a week) 2015 DATES: • Free registration begins in December • Weigh-In Week: January 19-25 • Weigh-Out Week: April 6-12 • Final Event and cash prize drawings: April 24 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: • Cash prizes for winning teams!
scale back alabama
• A free, online tracker for participants (tracks nutrition and exercise) • Healthy Lifestyle Tips • Family Focus Corner - provides additional information for participants to use in helping their children be healthier
Scale Back Alabama is a FREE, statewide weight loss program designed to help Alabama’s adults (18 and older) develop and maintain healthy lifestyle habits. It’s a 10-week program starting in January and ending in April.
For more information or to sign up in December, visit SCALEBACKALABAMA.COM. Scale Back Alabama is sponsored by the Alabama Hospital Association, Alabama Department of Public Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.