FLAVORED VAPES AREN’T SAFE Vape companies say they don’t want kids using their products. Then why are they selling e-juice in tempting fruit flavors?
Learn more at AlabamaHealthyTeens.com
Volume 20, Issue 9
Feature Articles
Columns page 2
page 14
Publisher’s Note
Faith @ Work
Jason Watson
Tammy Chavers shares what she loves most about being a real estate agent with RE/MAX, how she remains in Christ during her everyday life and all about the special God-given talent she uses to entertain many.
page 4
Pastor's Perspective Terrence Jones, Strong Tower Church
page 12
Pondering the Journey
page 18
What Suffering
DECEMBER 2 0 1 8
Sam Whatley
People Wish You Would Do at Christmas
by Vaneetha Rendall Risner Not everyone around us will be joyful this Christmas. It’s often hard to know what to say to offer comfort. You’ll find several ideas here to help you come alongside suffering friends and family in your life.
page 16
Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy
page 25
The Intersection Bob Crittenden
page 30
Counselor’s Corner Kim Hamblin, PhD
page 36
Dave $ays
page 22
Dave Ramsey
Christmas Planning Guide
Local churches offer a variety of opportunities for your family to celebrate the true Reason for the Season.
In Every Issue page 6
page 26
Books to Read
The King’s Canvas
page 8
Around Our Community
by Angela Hardgrave
Meet Kevin King and discover his ministry providing an open door for underdeveloped and underexposed artists in Montgomery.
page 14
Faith @ Work page 32
Support Groups 1
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River Region’s Journey
CCH New
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 Gena Hill
Research Editor Wendy McCollum
Contributing Writers Bob Crittenden Kim Hamblin, PhD Angela Hardgrave Pastor Terrence Jones Dave Ramsey Vaneetha Rendall Risner Kemi Searcy Dr. David Steele Sam Whatley
Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 702
Digital Manager Scott Davis
Ad Design
Tim Welch, Welch Designs
From the Publisher Next month I’ll turn 47, so I’ve experienced many versions of Christmas. I remember Christmas as a child. Back then, and still today, I loved gathering with family. We would get together with my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins to exchange gifts, laugh and eat special dishes. I can still see my grandmother’s fruit cake sitting nearly undisturbed on the dining room table. As a young child, I don’t recall Christmas even being a celebration of Jesus’s birth, but it was a lot of fun. We moved to Montgomery when I was nine and for the first time began attending church regularly. That was probably when I attended my first candlelight service. To this day, a Christmas candlelight service still touches my heart in a special way. The church all aglow with candlelight while everyone sings of the “Dear Savior’s Birth” is a tradition worth making, so please connect with one of the churches on page 5 to find out the times for their services this month. Now, as a father of three, I’ve enjoyed teaching my children about Christmas. We still have fun exchanging gifts with family, but are purposeful in keeping the meaning of Christmas at the forefront of the day and season. We place a manger under our tree and read about Jesus’ birth, but my favorite thing is to sing happy birthday to Jesus and light a birthday cake in His honor. There are hundreds of memories and traditions we all have wrapped around Christmas. Some are really good and some are really bad (LOL)! Among them all, what’s most important is that we set apart time to give thanks to Jesus and all He did on His rescue mission to earth. Let’s not play around and undervalue something so important. Christmas isn’t just the day a nice guy and moral example was born. It’s not a day just for gift exchanges and music by Bing Crosby, David Bowie and The Jackson Five. The angels appeared to the shepherds and said it this way, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12) Jesus’ birth was a day like no other. It was when mankind’s hope was revealed. The worst mistake we could ever make is to not cherish it appropriately and lay it aside for things so beneath it’s worth. This month’s issue offers many meaningful ways to celebrate the Savior’s birth, including many events in the community. I hope you’ll read your copy thoroughly and then pass it along to a friend or neighbor. I love Christmas traditions from fruit cakes to stockings hung by a fire, but they all are worthless to me if they aren’t pieces of a greater celebration of Jesus the Messiah and Savior of the World! Merry Christmas!
Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell
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 2018 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.
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Pastor’s Perspective Terrence Jones, Strong Tower Church at Washington Park
Rough Road to Christmas As we approach the celebration of the birth of our Savior, I would like you ponder the genealogy of Christ with me! Yes, the genealogy of Christ. Do you ever think about it? Matthew sums it up in chapter 1 verse 17 this way, “So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations; and from David until the exile to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the exile to Babylon until the Christ, fourteen generations.” Along the way there are many figures that we celebrate as heroes of the faith, yet there were moments in their lives where they were not so heroic. Abraham lied, put his wife in harm’s way, and took advantage of Hagar. Rehab was a former prostitute. David lied, committed adultery
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and murder. Solomon was the wisest man in scripture, yet he was so engulfed in his sins that the nation of Israel was divided into two kingdoms. Israel itself as God’s chosen people were so rebellious and zealous to chase other God’s that they were defeated and dragged into captivity by the nation of Babylon. Looking at the people included in genealogy of Christ we learn as my childhood pastor once preached “it was a rough road to Christmas.” A few thoughts should encourage us about this “rough road” leading to the birth of our Savior. First, we see that Christ coming was the predetermined plan of God (Acts 2:22-24). Christ coming into the world was not a new concept that haphazardly occured. God knew from the beginning and throughout the lives of all these individuals that He would send a Savior to do for us what we could not do for ourselves. It was evident through the saints of old lives’ and ours that we were lost in our trespasses and sins. We were incapable of saving ourselves. Thus we needed a righteous advocate to plead for our adoption as sons and daughters. It is because of Christ and Christ alone that we are able to declare with all the saints around the world “Abba Father” (Romans 8:14 - 17). 4
Secondly, we see that God is faithful even when we are faithless (2 Tim. 2:1113). This does not mean that God does not care how we live. We cannot work our way into heaven by living a certain way. However, our lives do serve as evidence of the validity of our faith. Inevitable just as the people in Christ’s genealogy made mistakes we are not perfectly faithful. We fall short! It is a great encouragement to know that even when we stumble and fall God will accomplish His plans and purposes. God wins! Christ’s second coming, ultimate defeat of Satan, sin, and death are sure. These things will happen regardless of how we fall short. Therefore, we should seek to radically impact God’s kingdom with full assurance that even if we fall short, we cannot lose. Lastly, we see that there is only one Hero of the Bible. It is the everlasting, all wise, and eternal God, Jesus the Christ. We are not the hero. God’s story is ultimately about His glory and His-story. Therefore as the holiday season comes into full view, let us hold firmly to the purpose of our existence, which is to worship and glorify the creator, not ourselves. Let us press into God and His Spirit who dwells within us to empower us to keep His glory on the forefront of our minds. Yes, the road to Christmas was indeed rough. Yet, our Savior lives and all the promises of God are “Yes and Amen” in Him (2 Cor. 1:20)! Terrence is pastor of Strong Tower Church at Washington Park in Montgomery. He earned his Masters of Divinity Degree from The Master’s Seminary in California. It is Terrence’s consuming desire to be used of God to strengthen the local church within the urban community. He and his wife, Thais, are the proud parents of six children: Faith (deceased), Malaya, Sophia, Terrence Jr., Anani and Malachi. http://strongtowerawp.com
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Holy Sexuality and the Gospel
Always in God’s Hands: Day by Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards
Christopher Yuan (2018)
Owen Strachan 2018) Rosaria Butterfield calls Christopher Yuan’s book, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel “the most important humanly composed book about biblical sexuality and godly living for our times.” That is quite a statement from such a respected woman. After a thorough reading, I concur that this indeed is a powerful and timely book. Christophe Yuan is a professor at Moody Bible Institute who marks out our identity as human beings in this book. He clearly reveals that we are image bearers of God, created with a purpose for God’s glory. However, each creature has fallen short of God’s glory and has been plunged into a state of sinfulness – by nature and by choice. Yuan establishes biblical sexuality and builds upon this foundation by exploring the biblical basis for marriage and singleness. Yuan maintains that the term holy sexuality is necessary since current terminology does not adequately or accurately reflect the biblical standard of sexual expression. Holy Sexuality is meant to eliminate the confusing jargon which is usually associated with this controversial subject. The matter of homosexuality has been vigorously debated in recent days and has been especially elevated since the recent Supreme Court decision that legalized so-called “samesex marriage.” Personally, I struggle with much of the literature that is either for or against “same-sex marriage.” But Dr. Yuan’s book takes a different path. Never once does he deviate from the biblical path to purity. He maintains the biblical boundaries of marriage between a man and a woman and sets forth a case that is both compelling and compassionate. Christopher Yuan has written a thoughtful and compelling book. Yuan’s convictions are uncompromising, yet he writes out of a deep and authentic love for people in the homosexual community. Christian readers will be encouraged and challenged by Dr. Yuan’s heart. And readers who struggle with same-sex desires will be patiently instructed by a writer who writes with patience and biblical fidelity.
I don’t usually get too excited about devotional books. They are typically too short and far too shallow. Such books gain a wide readership, which only adds fuel to my frustration. But when I learned about Dr. Owen Strachan’s new book, Always in God’s Hands: Day By Day in the Company of Jonathan Edwards, I eagerly secured a copy to review. The book contains a short devotional for each day of the year. Readers are greeted by a short citation by America’s greatest intellectual and pastor, Jonathan Edwards. Strachan follows with an insightful devotion which is laced with Bible-centered wisdom and practical lessons that apply to the Christian life. Topics include the doctrine of the Trinity, justification, sanctification, battling temptation and worldliness, work ethic, faith, biblical authority, and many more. Each devotion concludes with a short Scripture that relates to the daily content. Observant readers will notice several things about Strachan’s work. First, it is not short and it is not shallow. These are meaty, soul-stirring devotionals that ignite the affections and draw the attention of readers to the triune God. Second, it is a stellar introduction to the Christ-saturated worldview of Jonathan Edwards. Too many people unfairly caricature Edwards as a fire-breathing preacher, preoccupied with judgment and damnation. Edwards does indeed warn people to flee from the wrath to come. But this is not his only focus. The Puritan divine is fixated on the glory of God. He is consumed with the supremacy of Christ. His writing is saturated with gospel-centered joy. Third, it provides practical help for believers at different maturity levels. This volume is certainly a great encouragement to seasoned believers. But it will also help strengthen the faith of believers who are just getting started. I highly recommend this work and trust that it will receive a wide reading in the evangelical world. Always in His Hands is among the best books of 2018! River Region’s Journey
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Hi W te
Family Life presents Weekend to Remember Friday, February 15 – Sunday, February 17, 2019 Embassy Suites, 300 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, AL The two-and-a-half day romantic weekend getaway is a time to be together as a couple to invest in and strengthen the foundation of your marriage, no matter how firm or fragile it is. By getting away from the distractions of life, you can fortify your most important relationship and work toward building wonderful memories together, for decades to come. For more information visit famiilylife.com/weekend-to-remember.
Collingsworth Family in Concert
December 2018
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Thursday, January 17, 2019 at 7:30 pm Doors open at 6:30 pm Davis Theater for Performing Arts, 251 Montgomery Street Call 1-800-965-9324 or visit itickets.com for ticktes.
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His Vessel Ministries Offers Year-Long Discipleship Training Beginning January 2019
His Vessel Ministries is honored to begin its 18th year of Christ-centered discipleship teaching with the following year-long classes. Women’s Discipleship purposes to teach women how to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength. The bi-monthly, small-group teaching beginning on January 29, 2019 focuses on taking you to a place with God you have never been before and never want to leave. Teaching topics begin with identifying and understanding your purpose in life as you learn how to develop an intimate relationship with God and the importance of living a life of purity. Other topics include identifying and using your spiritual gift, spiritual fasting, intercessory prayer, spiritual strongholds, and spiritual authority. Do you need order in your home? Do you long for your home to be a place of peace and rest? Then join us in our God of Order Discipleship as this year-long class purposes to teach women God’s order for the home. Bi-monthly, smallgroup teachings and discussions will begin with a morning class on January 29 and an evening class on January 31. Daycare is provided for the morning class with pre-registration. This discipleship training proves to set the heart of every woman on the home, making it a sanctuary where Father God can dwell. One learns how to get the home in spiritual and physical order according to the Word of God. The teachings follow Titus 2:4-6 and include such topics as ordering the home as a restful and secure dwelling place, restoring the family altar, loving and submitting to your husband, speaking blessings, loving your children, being discreet and pure women, practical home management, and making the home a place of hospitality. His Vessel Ministries provides Christ-centered teachings that point people to the Truth that will stir and challenge individuals to love God with all their heart, soul, and strength so they become the vessel that pleases God. This is carried out through Bible teachings, yearly discipleship trainings, and special teaching events. Jo Hancock, Director of His Vessel Ministries, is the teacher and author of the discipleship trainings. His Vessel Ministries, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is located in the Historic Union Station in downtown Montgomery where the Bible teachings and discipleship classes are conducted. Visit our website www.hisvessel.org or www.facebook/hisvesselministries.
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The Crabb Family Encore Tour 2019
Crabb Family, Mike Bowling, Bowling Sisters Thursday, January 31, 2019 at 7:00 pm, Doors open at 6:00 pm Frazer United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL VIP ticket includes 5:00 PM early entry, a Question & Answer session with the Crabb Family, and the closest seats in the house. Early Access GA ticket includes early entry 10-15 minutes before the General Admission doors open. Please arrive no later than 5:40 PM. Order by Phone at 1-800-965-9324 or visit itickets.com. Organized by Outside The Box Events
MPAC Presents Michael W. Smith with Special Guest Melinda Doolittle
Thursday, December 6, 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA Multi-Platinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three GRAMMY Awards, one American Music Award and over 45 Dove Awards. Tickets begin at $27. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.
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God Protects His Ambassadors Jesus told His disciples, “I tell you the truth, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me,” (John 13:20) NIV. The Apostle Paul tells the church in 2 Corinthians 5:19-20 (NIV): “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.” Ambassadors and other diplomats speak for their governments. They have the full authority to represent any head of state who sends them to a host country. Ambassadors are protected from harm or harassment by international law. They are immune to local
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laws in their host country. This concept has a long history and a spiritual application. For example, in 1861 Theodore, the Emperor of Ethiopia, sent a letter to Queen Victoria in England suggesting that she provide an escort to protect his ambassadors on their way to London. He was worried about the Turks. Although he expected an immediate reply, his letter was set aside and not delivered for three years. Humiliated at this rebuff, Emperor Theodore threw the British Consul, Captain Charles Cameron, into prison in January, 1864. Cameron and two missionaries were tortured and bound with chains. In response to this news, Queen Victoria finally received Theodore’s first letter. She sent a reply requesting the immediate release of her consul and any other Europeans. However, it was January 1866 before this letter was delivered to Theodore. In anger, he captured and imprisoned the second British emissary and his entourage. He sent another letter to the queen. She replied again. Again, every Englishman bearing news to Ethiopia was imprisoned. By 1868, the queen had had enough. England invaded Ethiopia to free the captives. Victoria spared no expense. The general who led the expedition used 32,000 fighting soldiers, thousands of laborers, 55,000 animals, and 280 ships. Forty-four elephants from India arrived by ship to carry cannons over mountains hundreds of miles from the sea.
When the fighting was over, Theodore and 700 of his spearmen were dead and 1,200 wounded. Twenty British soldiers were wounded, but only two were killed. All the prisoners were set free, and Queen Victoria welcomed her diplomats back to England. Obviously, God’s love for us exceeds anything our governments can feel for their diplomats. So it is not surprising that God delivers us from the captivity and harassment of our Enemy. More than Victoria, the Father spares no expense to save His children and give them protection. He sent His Son to die for us and freely offers forgiveness when we repent and come back to Him. He shields us from many temptations every day. As God said to Joshua, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you,” (Joshua 1:5) NIV. When we sense danger we are tempted to take shortcuts. It seems easier to adopt the modern methods of this world: denial, more debt, and less truthfulness. But we cannot borrow our way out of debt and we cannot cheat our way back to honesty. We can only face the consequences of our foolish and sinful mistakes and plead for God’s mercy. When you feel surrounded by the worries, pain, and temptations of this world, reflect on the One who cares for you and for all those He has sent, those who represent His Kingdom. The Father will not allow you to be harassed and abused beyond what you can bear. He is sending help to you in His time and in His way. It may seem to be a slow response now, but you will see His deliverance, if you have faith. We just have to go before God, lay down our burdens, and wait for His solution. It’s not usually instantaneous, but He is faithful. You can trust Him with your life. Captain Charles Cameron and his fellow diplomats made it back to London after years of captivity. They appeared before the one who had sent them. We will make it home to our Sovereign, too. We have to believe, endure, and never give up. We know He rescues and keeps all who represent His Kingdom.
12 **Sam Whatley’s latest book, Ponder Anew, is now available at
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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. *All editorial content published needs to be in agreement with our Statement of Faith
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the residents out of her pocket and plays a game with them to give them away. I believe that my mom has rubbed off on me in this aspect because I also minister at nursing homes with my ventriloquist act, serve on our church hospitality committee and love to cook and give to others. I have over the years taught children’s Sunday School as well. My dad is so sweethearted and very humble. He never meets a stranger. He could talk to the President of the United States or a homeless man on the street and he would treat them the same and they would both love him. I feel that I have taken on his personality and it has benefited me greatly… not only in my relationships with family and friends, but in my business of real estate. I try to treat each and every customer the same…with respect, humility, honesty and integrity. RRJ: You began the pageant circuit at the age of 6 and continued until the age of 26. You were able to compete in the Miss Alabama pageant twice. What was your talent and how are you able to use this to bless others?
RRJ: Tammy, you grew up in Vernon, Alabama in a Christian home. How did your parents create an environment for you to come to know God’s love through Christ? Tammy: My parents raised me and my sister, Lana, in a very loving Christian home. We were members of Vernon First Free Will Baptist Church. We always attended Sunday School, church, choir practice, and church functions, my entire childhood. My parents are still Sunday School teachers there for children and have been for over 20 years. I’ve always heard that ‘the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.’ My mom is one of the most giving and selfless people I know. She works tirelessly at her church cooking meals on Wednesday nights and anytime they have a church meal, and she is also the first one to take food when someone passes. She also ministers at the nursing home in Vernon where my grandmother recently passed. She buys all kinds of goodies for River Region’s Journey
December 2018
Tammy: I am a self-taught ventriloquist since the age of 9. This was my talent in beauty pageants. I have also been ministering with my friends, Charlie, Scooter J and Lamb Chop for years. I go to nursing homes, children’s hospitals, mentally handicapped facilities, non-profit organizations, Tutwiler Prison, and numerous Christmas events and parties where we tell funny jokes and sing gospel music. It blesses me so much to be able to share this talent with so many. Most of the elderly in the nursing home really think Charlie is real. They want to hug on him and fight over who gets to be Charlie’s girlfriend for the day. And the children really love Lamb Chop. I used her a lot in teaching Sunday School. Scooter J is a little red-headed hillbilly that all ages love. I aired for two years on the Southern Gospel TV show and was even aired on the Ellen DeGeneres show last year. I stay busy with this throughout the year but Christmas time is the busiest. I average 10-18 shows in December. Although I am exhausted by the end of the Christmas season, it makes 14
me happy that I can share this with so many people who just need a little smile, a little laugh, a little encouragement and a lot of Christmas joy. RRJ: You’ve been a real estate agent for almost 15 years. What do you enjoy most about your job and what are the challenges? Tammy: I absolutely love helping families relocate in to Montgomery and selling them not just a home, but our community. Buying a home is one of the largest purchases ever made and I take great honor when someone chooses me to help them with this. I also love helping sellers sell their home to move on to the next chapter in their lives. I have a wonderful sphere of influence that continually sends me buyer and seller referrals and am proud to say that 90% of my business is repeat or referral clients. It is so wonderful to already have a relationship with a past client or a referred client that has some trust in me already from the referring partner. I would say my biggest challenge in my job is time management. I literally work seven days a week and don’t take a lot of time off. But, I love what I do and every day is different. I’m not sitting behind a desk all day. I do some office work but am usually out showing properties, listing homes, doing walkthroughs and going to the closing table. I have a fantastic assistant, Pam Spivey, who keeps me organized and does all the behind the scenes work at the office. My husband, Scott, is also very vital to my team. He is a mortgage loan officer with Real Estate Funding and helps my buyers get to the closing table. He also runs the financial part of my business and helps me stay focused on my production and where I should invest in my business. RRJ: Tammy, you have been blessed in your profession by being acknowledged for many years as a top realtor. Was this occupation the plan you had all along? Tammy: Prior to becoming a real estate agent, I was a paralegal for 15 years for several law firms. I really enjoyed the
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work but became burned out. I was actually in the process of buying my first home at this time and had a wonderful experience in doing so...and decided to change careers. I felt like God was leading me in a different direction. I went to real estate school at night while continuing working as a paralegal all day. Once I got my real estate license I quit my paralegal job and dove right in. It was defiantly a leap of faith and I have no doubt God had me in his arms. My first four months in the business I had 10 closings. I give credit to the team I was on at RE/MAX and I am still with RE/MAX to this day, almost 15 years later. RRJ: How does your Christian faith shape the way you approach your job? Tammy: I was taught as a child and still value this today: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” I know that when I go to a car lot to make a large purchase I don’t want to be hounded and pushed. So, in real estate sales, I take my own advice. I let my clients know upfront that I am there for them 24/7 but I will not push them to buy or sell. I always ask a referred customer, “How did you hear about me?” And most of them say, “We were told that you are not pushy.” I also
try to really listen to my clients to see what they really want and need. I think part of being a Christian is to listen to God and to remain humble. I pride myself in trying to do those things that honor God because in all honesty, I give HIM all the glory!
RRJ: Do you have a favorite scripture, story from the Bible, or hymn?
more honored than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And got granted his request. (1 Chron. 4:9–10). Not long after I started my real estate career, I read a little book called “The Prayer of Jabez.” I began studying this scripture and started reciting it several times throughout my day. I came to realize that the point is not that Jabez’s prayer has some kind of magic power in its words, it is that God has awesome power to change a person’s destination from curse to blessing. I truly believe that this prayer molded me and helped me enlarge my territory and to be blessed. In fact, at one point, I thought, “Now God, you are going to have to slow down on these blessings. My life is too good to be true!” Not only was I talking about my flourishing business, but my marriage, the joy of helping to raise Parker, and my busy schedule entertaining with my ventriloquist act. Life is good!
Tammy: My favorite Bible story/ prayer is the Prayer of Jabez: Jabez was
Tammy Chavers has been married to Scott for 10 years and has a stepson, Parker (age 20).
RRJ: The Scriptures say that if we want to bear fruit we must remain in Christ. What are specific things you do to remain in and strengthen your relationship with Christ? Tammy: I love my church, Landmark, and can honestly say that my pastor, Buddy Bell, is amazing and can hold my attention. That is a big feat for me. I can’t wait to hear his sermon every week. I also take time for prayer throughout my day. I spend a lot of time in my car while selling and spend a good bit of that time in prayer and listening and singing along to gospel music. I also get a lot of practice riding down the road rehearsing my ventriloquist skits and songs. I love sharing this God-given talent with so many.
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Up the Praise Barometer A women’s church leader led a group of ladies in a weekly Bible study where they studied how to relate to their husbands according to what the Word of God says. Each week they had an assignment where they had to do a “hubby hug” – a random act with specific goals, like esteem, respect, etc. These ladies wrestled with their husbands judging their assignments as not being genuine since they were assigned and not spontaneous. The ladies often complained their husbands didn’t even say “thank you” for some of the great things the wives did for them. But in the end, the husbands of the group came together and begged the church leader to keep having the sessions for their wives because there had been so much change in their relationships. Many of these couples gave testimonies in during the worship service to encourage other couples. Behavioral scientists indicate that the way to affect behavior is not by overly emphasizing faults, but by praising good qualities of a person. Research also proves that a man’s greatest emotional need is to feel respected and appreciated! Praise openly demonstrates that respect and appreciation. Proverbs 3:27 says, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” Your praise should include an expression of warm approval or admiration. The River Region’s Journey
December 2018
hard work of marriage and family need frequent and honest, positive words. Imagine how many negative or, at best, neutral words your husband hears in a day. You need to counteract those hard-to-hear morsels with some delicious praise of your own.
Praise is Not Flattery It is important to discern the difference between flattery and praise. Compliments that are founded in truth and are timely for the situation are praiseworthy. Flattery may have a grain of truth but it actually often exposes weaknesses. Here are some differences between praise and flattery: 1. Praise encourages, Flattery butters up (manipulation). 2. Praise has a task or action attached, Flattery is adulation without a cause. 3. Praise builds confidence, Flattery puts you on sinking sand. 4. Praise promotes trust, Flattery increases mistrust. 5. Praise comes from genuine people, Flattery comes from weak people. Don’t be afraid to praise. I have found that a little praise can go a long way in 16
changing someone’s disposition for the entire day. A tired waiter, an exasperated mother in the checkout line, a husband who is not looking forward to his workday – all can receive the blessing of praise and it can illuminate their faces and their hearts. Some people believe that criticism is most important so that one can better him or herself. Truthful critiques, given in love can be very powerful. However, praise has the double effect of making someone happy besides nudging them toward positive faith. It is good to practice praise of your husband in front of your children or family members. This semi-public display allows the family’s participation in the praise. Their agreement can add power to your statements. You can also brag on him to your friends when he can hear you. He will know you truly mean what you say when you say it to someone else. Praise is often the outward expression for appreciation, respect, esteem and love. It is often the wind that fans the flame of each of these important areas that can help build your spouse. Praise can be verbal, but it can also be written. My girlfriend’s husband often would cut the grass in the front yard so that her name remained written in the taller grass. She taught piano at her house and the parents were impressed by his outward expression of love. You may not cut the grass to do such a thing for your husband, but you can write mini notes that remind him you are thinking about him. Stick one in his shoe, on his toothbrush, on the dashboard of the car – anywhere he will find it unusual to see something from you. Liberal praise can be an uncompromising life changer. Try it!
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The week after my infant son 2. Adjust your “Trying to fix people only deepens Paul died, I went to pick up my expectations. two-year-old daughter from pretheir grief. Unsolicited advice feels Our friends who are reeling school. No one said a word to me from loss this holiday may not be like criticism.” other than “Here she is.” I realize able to do things they did in years they felt awkward, but the silence past. Since it may be harder to buy was crushing. I barely made it out gifts, they may not participate in 1. Acknowledge the loss. the door before bursting into tears. the usual gift-giving. Social events may be Having someone simply acknowledge It’s hard knowing what to say when too emotionally or physically demanding to your grief can be a gift in itself. Though our someone has experienced a great loss. attend. Include your friends and offer to go suffering friends may never mention it, the Saying “I’m so sorry” feels trite, so it’s with them to functions, but be understanding sadness of the situation will be a constant easier just to say nothing. But for those if they cancel at the last minute. Suffering backdrop throughout the season. When we who are suffering, silence hammers the people often don’t know what they can do verbally recognize their loss, it shows we hurt even deeper, especially during the until right before the event. notice and care. Our words need not be deep Christmas season when the ache of loss is Also, extend grace when they are or profound; just recognizing the ever-presintensified. The weight of tragedies — the down or depressed. Tears may appear ent reality of their pain can be encouraging. death of a loved one, divorce, disease, unexpectedly and so can irritability. You divided families, depression, and disaster don’t need to cheer them up, but under— can all feel heavier at the holidays, as Consider offering: stand that their emotions may be constantthe festivities acutely remind us of what “I know this season is particularly hard. I ly on edge. The impact of your support we have lost. wish you weren’t dealing with this agonizand encouragement is appreciated more I have buried a child, endured four ing family situation and all of the fallout.” than you realize. miscarriages, gone through an unwanted “Losing your wife will understandably divorce, parented troubled teenagers, and overshadow everything else that is happen3. Actively offer assistance. continue to deal with a painful deteriorating ing this Christmas. We miss her too, and we Deliberately look for ways to help, and disability — so I understand how difficult know your pain is even deeper.” then offer specific suggestions. It’s hard to this time of year can be. While each person “I’m guessing these health struggles make and each loss is unique, from my experience, it harder to enjoy Christmas because you follow up on vague offers, so don’t just say, here are five suggestions for caring for those can’t do the things you loved and did before. “If you need anything, call me,” because who are suffering at Christmas. they won’t call. If you do offer specific supI’m so sorry about that.”
2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690
460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411
Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen 19
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doing in front of a group; it’s harder to be authentic when everyone is looking at me. Regularly call or come by to check in with them. The question, “How are you doing today?” can open the door to conversation since it acknowledges that grieving and suffering changes from day to day. It also lets them answer the question without feeling they need to summarize everything that has happened over the month. But don’t ask prying, personal questions or speak in hushed, mournful tones. That often makes people feel uncomfortable, and like a project more than a friend.
5. Allow them to grieve and don’t try to fix them.
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port, be sure to follow through. They know it’s a busy time of year, but if you have committed to help, they are likely depending on it.
Some things that may be helpful are:
• Offer to help with Christmas shopping, decorating, or even gift-wrapping. • Since food is a big part of the holidays, offer to cook or bake something, or even invite their family for dinner. After my first husband left, it was a priceless gift to be invited to friends’ homes where we were able to form new memories. River Region’s Journey
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• Offer to run errands like grocery shopping, going to the post office, or picking up children from school. • Keeping their children for the afternoon can be a huge help, giving them time to be alone, rest, or get needed things done.
4. Ask how they are doing without putting them on the spot. Even though everyone at a gathering may know them well and share concern for them, it is difficult to be put on the spot with more than a few people present — so ask in private. I have felt awkward and even embarrassed to be asked how I am really 20
Instead, point them to Christ and remind them of his faithfulness. I am still indebted to the friends who let me weep and vent without analyzing or judging me. Trying to fix people only deepens their grief. Unsolicited advice feels like criticism. It hurts to be told that others are thriving under the same circumstances and then to get suggestions on what to do differently. Everyone’s healing is unique. Negative comparison makes the wound even deeper. Instead, we can remind our friends that the real joy of Christmas is not in family or friends or gift-giving or parties, but in the incredible fact that God Incarnate came to earth and dwelt among us. Jesus took on flesh for us so that we would have life eternal in him. Remind them that God’s grace is sufficient and his word revives the soul. But do not bludgeon them with mini-sermons or pepper them with platitudes. God’s ways are mysterious, and we do not understand why calamity comes. Remind them that our faithful Savior will never fail or forsake them. That Jesus walks with them and he weeps with them. Remind them that he knows every detail of their struggle. Remind them that for all of us, the unshakeable hope of Christmas lies solely in Emmanuel, for our God has come to us and will forevermore be with us. Reprinted with permission from desiringgod.com.Vaneetha Rendall Risner is a freelance writer and a regular contributor to Desiring God. She blogs at danceintherain.com, although she doesn’t like rain and has no sense of rhythm. She and Joel live in Raleigh, North Carolina. Vaneetha is the author of the book The Scars That Have Shaped Me: How God Meets Us in Suffering.
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Christmas at Frazer
Join us for Contemporary or Traditional Worship at 8, 9:30 or 11AM Watch Us Live | 9:30AM Traditional | 11am Contemporary on WFRZ-TV | Frazer Roku & AppleTV | www.frazer.church/live
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Montgomery Aldersgate UMC 6610 Vaughn Road Christmas Song Musical and Live Nativity 10:30 a.m. Sunday, December 9 in the Aldersgate Sanctuary. Contemporary Christmas Eve Service Sunday, December 23 5:00 p.m. in the Christian Activity Center Contemporary Christmas expressions through Music, Candlelight and Communion Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Monday, December 24, 5:00 p.m. Traditional Expression of Christmas Eve through Carols, Communion and Candlelight. For more information call (334) 272.6152.
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Christ Community Church 8285 Ryan Road December 16 Faith Family Christmas gathering! Bring a dish and join us for a Potluck dinner followed by a Concert with our Praise Team. Life Tree - All month Christ Community will have our “Life Tree” again this year working with First Choice. The tree is filled with ornaments, each naming a baby item that will go into the First Choice baby Founded Upon God’s Word Liturgically Joyful boutique. Take an ornament and bring back the At Christchurch, Holy Scripture At Christchurch, worship involves serves as the final authority for our the entire congregation, as we unwrapped gift to place under theandtree. teaching and preaching. Indeed, offer God praise, thanksgiving over the course of three years, adoration using worship traditions December 24read that can be traced back to the almost the entire Bible is aloud and preached upon. earliest days of the Church. Our worship is not designed to entertain Candlelight Service and Communion. Join us, but to honor the true “audience” Lord! of worship, theto us as we come together celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Service starts at 5:00pm. Call 273.8110 for details on these events. Warm and Loving
Committed to Mission
By God’s grace and through His Spirit, the people of Christchurch enjoy the richness and joy of being a true family. We’d love for you to become a part of us! Regardless of whoad you are, will always onyou page 3 find a home at Christchurch.
The people of Christchurch respond to God’s Word by going out into the world proclaiming the good news of Jesus, and we joyfully serve as His hands and feet whether in places like Uganda and Guatemala or within Montgomery.
Christchurch
8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117
8800 Vaughn Road Sunday, December 2, 9, 16, 23 Sundays of
www.christchurchmgm.net 334.387.0566 Advent Service with Holy Eucharist, 9:30 a.m. Monday, December 24 Christmas Eve Services Holy Eucharist and Pageant, 4 p.m.
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Holy Eucharist and Incense, 8 p.m. Tuesday, December 25 Christmas Day Service With Holy Eucharist, 11 am Call (334) 387.0566 for details or visit christchurchmgm.net.
Eastern Hills Baptist Church ad on page 35
3604 Pleasant Ridge Rd (in the Forest Hills Subdivision) December 2, 3 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. “The Light Has Come,” Sounds of EHBC at Christmas, Featuring soloist, instrumentalists, preschool choir, Celebration Singers & more. No Admission. Childcare provided for birth through 5 year olds. December 24, 5:00 p.m. Christmas Candlelight Service For information please call (334) 272.0604. The Church at Chantilly 9299 Vaughn Road, Pike Road Monday, December 24 Christmas Eve Worship Service 5:30 p.m. Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Please call (334) 279.1372 or visit www.chantillychurch. com for details.
Dalraida UMC ad on page 8
3817 Atlanta Highway Sunday, December 16, at 11 a.m. A Christmas Musical. Multi-generational. Please call (334) 272.2190 for more information.
First Baptist Church ad on Back Cover
305 South Perry Street December 7-9 22
The Living Christmas Tree Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage. Tickets go on sale beginning of November. Candlelight Service, Christmas Eve December 24 at 3:30 and 5 p.m. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www. montgomeryfbc.org First United Methodist Church 2416 West Cloverdale Park Hanging of the Greens Sunday, December 2, 4 – 6:30 p.m. Come with unwrapped toys or monetary gifts for families in need. Festival of Christmas Worship Services, Sunday, December 16, 8:45 am and 11 am Our annual concert featuring our music ministry and a professional orchestra. Christmas Eve Services Communion Service and Candlelight services from noon-8 p.m. Sunday, December 30 Wesley Covenant Service, 10-11 a.m. A service of recommitment for the new year. Call (334) 834.8990 for more info.
Frazer Memorial UMC ad on page 21
6000 Atlanta Highway Women’s Christmas Brunch Saturday, December 1st from 9-11 a.m. Christmas Musical: The Christmas Storybook Wesley Hall, December 9 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 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 Worship” Monday, December 24. Call (334) 272.8622 for details.
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Gateway Baptist Church ad on page 13
3300 Bell Road Monday, December 24 Candlelight Service and Communion, held at 5 p.m. Call (334) 272.9494 for details.
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Christmas Cantata December 9 at 11 am in the Worship Center. The service will feature the Chancel Choir. Monday, December 24, Christmas Eve Services, Candlelight and communion 12 noon - Traditional, Sunday Service. 4 p.m. – Worship Center 6 p.m.- Worship Center For more info, call (334) 277.3037.
Taylor Road Baptist Church
ad on page 13
1550 East Washington Street Annual Christmas Production at 4 p.m. Date to follow. Hosted by the Youth Dept. Call (334) 462.3048.
ad on page 27
ad on page 10
1685 Taylor Road The Longest Night December 2, 7 p.m. A service of remembrance and hope for those grieving the loss of loved ones. Call (334 271.3363 for details.
9045 Vaughn Road Christmas Dinner December 2, 6-8 pm with Guest Speaker Janeese Spencer. Register at sjlife.com/ministries/ women. Childcare available by reservation.
Vaughn Forest Church 8660 Vaughn Road A Christmas Party Sunday, November 30, Time to be announced
Saint James UMC
Everyone is invited to celebrate the sounds of Christmas. Christmas Services Monday, December 24 at 5 p.m. For more information please contact Vaughn Forest Church at (334) 279.5433.
Prattville Centerpoint Fellowship Church Christmas Eve Services We will be having our Candlelight Service at Prattville Christian Academy on Monday, December 24 Candlelight at 3:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Vist www. centeringlives.com or call (334) 356-3076. East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Road Songs at Christmas December 2 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Our Celebration Choir, Orchestra, and Drama Team will present “The Songs of Christmas,” an East Memorial Christmas Night of Favorites. The seating is dessert-theater style and costs $2.00 to reserve your seat. Tickets may be purchased at church office, website or at the door. For information contact (334) 365.7500 or visit our website at www.eastmemorial.org.
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Christmas Eve Service Monday, December 24, Vespers Service, 5 p.m. Call (334) 361.9180.
Wetumpka First Baptist Church ad on page 17
138 South Washington Street, Prattville Monday, December 24 Christmas Eve Service, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Please call (334) 365.0606. First United Methodist 100 E. Fourth Street, Prattville December 9 Children’s Christmas Program December 12 Special Christmas Wednesday for Children Christmas Pipes, Cookie Decorating and Ornament Making December 16 Service of Lessons and Carols Glynwood Baptist Church 376 McQueen Smith Road N. Christmas Musical Sunday, December 9 at 5 P.M.
Blue Ridge Baptist Church ad on page 24
4471 Jasmine Hill Rd. Christmas Dinner December 9, 5 pm Christmas Celebration December 16, 11 am Candlelight & Caroling Service December 23, 5 pm Call 567.4325 for details. Centerpoint Fellowship Church 9301 US Highway 231 Christmas Eve Services Monday, December 24 Candlelight service at 4:30 p.m. Call (334) 478.7826.
Wishing You a Very Merry Christmas!
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A Christmas Advent-ure: Sing Unto the Lord! For the past few years, I have put together an Advent guide, designed to provide inspiration during the Christmas season. This year’s guide is centered around 25 different Christmas songs, including a corresponding Scripture and some of the lyrics from the song. The songs can help us to reflect on worshipping God during this special season. The Christmas season gives us the opportunity to worship God for what He has done by sending His only Son into the world. Various characters of the Christmas narrative are seen expressing worship to and for our Savior. The great songwriters throughout the ages have reminded us about the worship element of Christmas, and we can pay special attention to how these wonderful songs can motivate us to honor the Lord during this season. No wonder we love the music of Christmas so much - people do seem to cherish these timeless carols and celebratory songs through which we can exalt the Lord! These are intended to be used during the 25 days of December leading up to Christmas Day, one per day. Or you can incorporate these songs and verses into your weekly Advent readings. This year, the four Sundays of Advent are December 2-23. So, please enjoy this year’s edition of 25: A Christmas Advent-ure, as we sing unto the Lord!)
Rejoice:
4) Hark the Herald Angels Sing Luke 2:8-14: Hark. the herald angels sing: “Glory to the newborn King!” 5) O Come All Ye Faithful Luke 2:15: O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!
Reflect:
Respond: 16) Go Tell It on the Mountain Luke 2:17, 20: Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere...that Jesus Christ is born. 17) I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day Luke 2:14: God is not dead nor doth he sleep! The Wrong shall fail, the Right prevail, With peace on earth, goodwill to men!
6) Away in a Manger Luke 2:16: Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay...
18) It Came Upon the Midnight Clear Zechariah 9:9: Peace on the earth, good will to men; From heaven’s all gracious King!
7) Do You Hear What I Hear? Matthew 2:1-2: The child, the child, sleeping in the night, He will bring us goodness and light.
19) Jesus, What a Wonderful Child Matthew 2:10: New life, new hope, new joy He brings; Won’t you listen to the angels sing? 20) We Three Kings Matthew 2:10: Star of wonder, star of light... Guide us to thy perfect light.
8) In The Bleak Midwinter Isaiah 9:2: What could I give Him, I give Him my heart. 9) Mary Did You Know Luke 1:31-32: Did you know...The sleeping Child you’re holding is the great “I am”? 10) What Child Is This? Luke 2:19: This, this is Christ the King; Whom shepherds guard and angels sing...
Revere: 11) God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen Psalm 16:11: To save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray. 12) He is Born, the Divine Christ Child Matthew 1:23: He is born, the divine Christ child. Sing we all of the Saviour’s birth.
1) Angels From the Realms of Glory Luke 1:28, 2:10: Come and worship, come and worship. Worship Christ, the newborn King
13) O Little Town of Bethlehem Micah 5:2: The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
2) Angels We Have Heard on High Luke 2:13-14: Come, adore on bended knee, Christ the Lord, the newborn King.
14) O Holy Night Luke 2:6-7: Long lay the world in sin and error pining; Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
3) The First Noel Luke 2:11-12: Noel, noel, noel, noel; Born is the King of Israel!
15) Silent Night Luke 1:46-49: Radiant beams from thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace... 25
Repeat: 21) Good Christian Men, Rejoice Isaiah 61:10: ...rejoice with heart and soul and voice! 22) Hallelujah Chorus Revelation 11:15: The kingdom of this world is become - The kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ! And he shall reign for ever and ever! 23) How Great Our Joy John 16:33: How great our joy...praise Ye the Lord in heaven on high. 24) Joy To the World Isaiah 55:12: Let every heart prepare Him room; And heaven and nature sing... 25) O Come O Come Emmanuel Isaiah 7:14: Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel.
This Advent guide can also be found in the latest edition of the Faith Radio Ministry Magazine, which you can view online at FaithRadio. org. This edition also features a timeline of Christmas Songs Throughout the Ages. You can subscribe to the Magazine and have it delivered to your home free of charge four times per year. You can also download the guide through the website at FaithRadio.org. December 2018
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A Father’s Day gift from Kevin King’s wife and daughter in 2013 impacted not only his life, but would ultimately affect the lives of many across the city of Montgomery. “After not drawing or practicing art for about 16 years, my wife and daughter gave me paint supplies. My wife Nicole stated that she was officially taking away my excuse not to create,” said King. Not long after Father’s Day, Nicole broke her wrist, and King became her caregiver after surgery. Boredom during that time drove him to put the paint supplies to use. “I began to paint for the first time and realized that I had talent. After engaging in this rediscovered love, I noticed the connection to the Father as Creator and the attributes and abilities that he allowed us as His image bearers to possess as artists. I began to get invitations to art shows and opportunities to earn extra money through commissions,” said King.
The King’s Canvas provides a creative space and resources for underexposed and underdeveloped adult and high school visual artists in West Montgomery. They cultivate talent in areas of Montgomery where lack of resources and support can cause artistic expression to wither and die. “I enter into certain circles in Montgomery, Alabama, and I’ve noticed the exclusivity. While downtown Montgomery is exploding with art activity and an abundance of resources, evidence has shown that several artists, particularly in West Montgomery and other areas on the margin of the city, lack formal networks, access to tools and affordable spaces to freely create or display their work. Furthermore, many of these artists have not received formal entrepreneurial training, life skill development training, affordable studio rentals, and exhibition space needed for their talents to thrive. It seems as if a small door has opened for me to navigate in a few of these spaces, and now I am able to create opportunities for others,” said King. “The King’s Canvas started out of my home providing oneon-one training to neighbors in my community who could’ve been out participating in all sorts of destructive behavior. Instead, they chose to create art to express themselves. The King’s Canvas is about to go beyond the borders of my home into a newly renovated space on the Selma to Montgomery March Voting Rights Trail. Once a quarter, we will go beyond the borders of our community and engage in art shows around the city. We travel so that our students will be exposed to art scenes beyond the River Region,” said King. The King’s Canvas currently offers art classes for Sidney Lanier and George Washington Carver High School students and
King said that through his art, he found a new place of freedom and peace. Neighbors from King’s West Montgomery community noticed his newfound passion and approached him with their desire to engage in art. King said, “Their reasons were directly connected to the improvement of their quality of life by staying out of trouble, earning extra money, coping with anxiety and depression—just to name a few. Since there are no spaces to create in the Washington Park area of West Montgomery, I decided in November 2017 to start The King’s Canvas Gallery and Studio.”
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art classes for adults who live in Washington Park, Gibbs Village, and the surrounding areas. However, King said that they not only serve those areas, but Montgomery as a whole. “Don’t think of The King’s Canvas as just a place where the Washington Park and surrounding community artists come to paint. We are using creativity to build community and address unmet needs in our city. Ultimately, The King’s Canvas is about discovering our life purpose together and impacting the city as we engage in the arts,” said King. As a non-profit entity, The King’s Canvas relies on support to continue their outreach into the River Region. King said, “Our annual Kevin with his All Tribes and Nations unity painting. budget is only $150,000 a year. We need 250 people to also covers weekly art instructors, as commit to $50 a month in well as other instructors who will faciliorder to acquire our space and to have tate financial literacy, entrepreneurial a full-time presence at our space. This
and life skill development training and includes ongoing materials and supplies needed in order to train and develop adults and high school students in our community. We will have an art show once a quarter to give community artists needed exposure, and of course there is a cost associated with pulling off an event like that.” Kevin King would love to speak to those interested in supporting The King’s Canvas and our local artists. You can reach him at kevin@thekingscanvas.org or contact him through the website at www.thekingscanvas.org. Angela Hardgrave is a graduate of the University of Mobile with a degree in journalism and currently works in the Marketing Department of Faulkner University as a graphic designer. Angela is also a freelance writer for several publications in the River Region. She resides in Montgomery with her three awesome daughters and her dog, Emmy.
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Accredited K3 through 12th Grade Independent College-Preparatory School
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One World. One School. One Family. Building life-long relationships through an intentional focus on mentors and leadership Trinity School is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every way—an education that is as unique as your child. If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com. Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families.
PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS
GRAND STORY HOUR Prospective K3, K4, K5 Students, Parents or Grandparents December 6, 2018 at 1:30 PM
K3-K5 OPEN HOUSE Prospective Parents of K3, K4, K5 Students January 17, 2019 at 6:00 PM
EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATION EXTRAORDINARY ENVIRONMENT EXTRAORDINARY EXPECTATIONS
OPEN HOUSE | JANUARY 17 AT 6:00 P.M. 29
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River Region’s Journey
Christmas & Family Many of us consider the Christmas season a time for family. Over the last several years I have seen requests for articles from mental health professionals about “Christmas Blues”. Even Elvis sang about having a “blue Christmas without you”. For some people, Christmas is not a season of joy, but a season of sadness and disappointment. We need to be understanding and sensitive to those who don’t share the same feelings. As a therapist, I have now become accustomed to hearing people say, “I hate Christmas.” It was once surprising to hear someone express such a negative emotion at a time many of us consider a joyous time. I once heard a therapist say there are times when old family resentments dating from past years re-emerge and old pathological behaviors are repeated. He referred to weddings and funerals when families gather and these old resentments are again acted out. Holidays can be included along with weddings and funerals because these are times that families gather, although there are choices about who gathers and where they gather, while weddings and funerals people more likely feel obligated to attend. Family members can be hurt because they are left out and families are hurt when members feel alienated and choose not to come for Christmas. Either way, there is pain associated with Christmas. Almost all of us have the expectation, not always realized, that Christmas should be a time of joy and gathering with family in a mutual expression of love River Region’s Journey
December 2018
for each other and celebration of Christ’s birth. I have often seen sadness in friends and patients whose expectations for Christmas are not met. With the increasing frequency of divorce, there are more blended families; many families choose to spend Christmas alternately with one family or the other or celebrate Christmas with one family the weekend before the holiday and the other the following weekend. With divorce, when one parent has physical custody, Christmas Day is split between parents or children come for Christmas on alternate years. There are also families in which partners can’t tolerate being with the other partner’s family and they spend Christmas apart. All these situations can dampen the joy of Christmas. The loss of a beloved family member can dampen the joy of Christmas for a family. In my childhood and teen years, Christmas was spent at my grandparents’ house. It was not the same for years after my grandfather died after a heart attack on Christmas Eve. In my 40s, Christmas was given meaning again with my father-in-law’s family. His sudden death in January changed following Christmases for years. My overseas assignment in the Air Force meant sharing Christmas with my military family. My experiences were certainly not unique. Some families have a kinkeeper, usually a family matriarch, and Christmas is celebrated in the “old family home”. Christmas was a time that everyone gathered at this home. The loss of a kinkeeper sometimes means that this gathering of families doesn’t continue and the family home is sold. New traditions must often be developed. 30
As families have become more mobile, it’s more difficult for some families to come together. The meaning of Christmas and our expectations seems to have shifted from time together as families to the gifts under the tree. What can we do to reclaim the value of gathering together and change the way we give? Part of the solution might be redefining what we mean by family. Family can be defined in ways other than blood. We can build military families, church families, neighborhood families, or friend families. Samaritan’s Purse now allows us to gift multiple charities. We can help drill wells to bring clean water to those who don’t have a safe supply, support Wounded Warriors, help meet the needs of orphaned children, or support Operation Christmas Child. With globalization, the world has become our family in some ways. We need to remember the words of Luke, who wrote: For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11) This is the true gift and the true meaning of Christmas. Christ was born as the Savior of the entire world.
Dr. D. Kim Hamblin is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Alabama. He received a B.A. in Psychology from Mississippi State University and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. He maintains a fulltime private practice which specializes in adult individual therapy. Special interests include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders and ADD/ADHD.
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2018
River Region’s Journey
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Adoption Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy and First UMC, Millbrook APAC, Alabama Pre/ Post Adoption Connection Support Group: This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer. For more information call Jill Sexton at 409-9477.
Location: Grace Presbyterian Church, 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: 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: Journey Church, 435 Sheila Blvd, Prattville Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mondays beginning at 6:15 pm. Childcare available. Call John Pearse at 303-243-4308 or visit myjourneychurch.com.
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: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. RSVP- This is a 12 step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and Bible
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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: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 E Main St. CASA - 12 step (Christians Against Substance Abuse) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334-365-4201 for additional 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 Christ centered 12 step-program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Call 567-2364.
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Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) is open to all struggling with addictive sexual behavior. 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: First United Methodist Church, Wetumpka 306 W. Tuskeena Street ‘Fresh Start’ Recovery meets every Thursday, 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. For any info contact ministry leader, Paul Henderson, 334-201-5428.
Alzheimer’s / Dementia
Location: First UMC, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, 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 at 834-8990. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 495-6350 for more information.
Cancer
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Rd 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: 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 UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. 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. Contact Joe Crowley at 334-207-4385 or jpcrowl46@ yahoo.com Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. 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 Room 8114. Call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net
Divorce
Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care Wednesday nights @6:30-8:00 pm in Room 405B. Child care is available. Contact Kathy
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Cooper at 241-5125 for further information. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Divorce Care meets each Tuesday from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Also, Divorce for Kids is available. Call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org. January 9 - April 3, 2018 Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road DivorceCare fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. Call 279-5433.
Gambling
Location: Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US HWY 231 in the Wallsboro/Wetumpka community. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison. Gamblers Anonymous, Saturdays at 6 pm. and Mondays at 6:30 pm. Call 567-0476. Location: Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. For more information about the GA meetings call 334399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at 334-277-5100.
December 2018
River Region’s Journey
Grief
Location: Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road River Region Survivors of Suicide meets on the second and fourth Thursday of every month (excluding holidays) from 6:30-8:00 PM. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of their religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information. 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. Call (334) 284-2721 for info. Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, Wednesday evenings at 6 pm in the church parlor. Led by Michael Beatty. Call 365-5977. Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105. Call 495-6350 for more info. 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 info, contact Alice Scarborough (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis (334) 567-8754 or e-mail mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook. Location: Millbrook FUMC, 3350 Edgewood Rd Grief Share meets Sundays from 5-7 p.m. For more information or to sign up, please call the church office at 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org.
Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief support group meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M7:00 P.M. For additional information, please contact Alice Glover at (334)281-2754.
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. Contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.
Mental Health
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 at Frazer UMC to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. Email Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance on Mental Illness) meets 2nd Monday of each month from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in Room 7205. Group provides understanding, education, & information to family members & friends of those who suffer mental illness. Call Pat Cobb at 334-451-0207 for more info. NAMI Connection (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Support group for individuals with mental illness. Meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Room 3103. Call Pat Cobb at 334-451-0207 for more info.
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. Call April Scott at 828-446-6666. Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of
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Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Single Moms Support Group, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in classroom 118. For information call 277-5800. 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. Location: Redland Baptist, 1266 Dozier Rd, Wetumpka A MOPS group will be held 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s of every month during the school year, and has scheduled play dates and moms nights out through the summer and beyond. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. Email Denise Braswell at deniseorscott@ yahoo.com. Location: St.James UMC, 9045 Vauhgn Road Moms in Prayer International: This is a Christ centered interdenominational prayer ministry made up of moms, grandmothers, aunts or any woman who wants to gathers to pray for their children and schools. Meets
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every Sunday afternoon from 3:00-4:00. Call Annette Jones for more information on joining us or training to start your own group. 850-529-4730 or email Montgomerymipac@gmail.com 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.
PRESENTS
Physical Challenges
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. Call 272-6152. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Parkinson’s Support meets 4th Thursdays at 6 pm in Room 8114. Call 495-6350 for more info. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Ostomy Support meets every other month on the 2nd Sunday at 1:30 p.m. in room 3101. In 2018: Feb., April, June, Aug., Oct., Dec. Call 495-6350 for more info. Location: Vaughn Park Church, 3800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach Group meets 2nd Friday of each month from 6:30- 8 PM. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare is provided. Please visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or our Facebook page (MADSOG) for information. Please contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com.
Same Sex Attraction
A C H R I S TM A S M U S I C A L C E L E B R AT I O N
S U N DAY, D E C E M B E R 2 3 : 0 0 A N D 6 : 0 0 P. M . 3604 PLEASANT RIDGE ROAD M O N T G O M E R Y, A L A B A M A 3 6 1 0 9 L o c at e d i n t h e F O R E S T H I L L S C o m m u n i t y .
Location: : Young Meadows Presbyterian Church, 5780 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Upstream Support Group for those dealing with unwanted same sex attraction and family members or loved ones of those who are gay identified. The group meets at 6:30 pm every first, third and fifth Tuesday evenings. For more information call 334.244.1385.
Singlehood
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Boundaries study for singles meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. This study will help singles learn to set boundaries with emotions and help avoid the harmful behavior of others. For information, call 495-6386 or email singles@ frazerumc.org. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Single and Parenting! A New Group for Single Mom’s. This group meets every Tuesday from 6-7:30pm for hope & encouragement & guidance & parenting ideas. For information, call 495-6386 or email singles@frazerumc.org.
Send support group info to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com 35
December 2018
River Region’s Journey
Dental Insurance for Kids? Q. Should I keep buying dental insurance for my kids, or is it just a gimmick? A. Dental insurance is one of those things
where it’s easy to see that the payout is greater than the return. We’ve had dental insurance proposed to us at my company several times as an employee benefit, but when you add up what you pay for it you’ll find you rarely spend that much on dentistry. In many cases, I advise self-insuring for dental care. Now, there is a dental discount company I highly recommend called 1Dental. com. This kind of thing is worth it. As a member, you get discounted rates on
dental work when you visit an in-network provider. I’ve gotten to know the folks behind this organization, too, and they’re great people.
Strained Relationship Over Borrowed Money Q. I borrowed some money from my parents in January, and it took a few months longer to pay them back than originally planned. Since then, I’ve noticed our relationship seems to be strained. They will sometimes make remarks about money when I’m around, and it’s obvious the things they say are aimed at me. I don’t want things to be like this between us during the holidays. I have taken steps to become more financially responsible, like watching my spending and living on a budget, so how can I address this issue with them? A. I’m sorry you’re going through this, but I hope everyone has learned a valuable
lesson. It’s okay to give money sometimes, as long as you’re not enabling irresponsible behavior in the process. But loaning money to or borrowing from friends and relatives will often lead to bruised feelings. If you paid them back, especially if it took longer than expected or agreed upon, there’s not much you can do if they choose to hold a grudge. With some folks, it just takes a little while for those kinds of things to heal. And considering it’s your parents, my guess is they’ll become more and more forgiving with time. Until then, maybe you could look for opportunities during conversations with them to mention your new approach to finances. Something as simple as referring your budget, or getting excited about how much you were able to put into savings from your last paycheck, might get their attention. A few subtle hints that you’re actively working to gain control of your finances might go a long way with your parents. If they realize you’re starting to handle your money more wisely, I’ll bet you’d start to notice a real difference in their attitudes!
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1849 Perry Hill Rd, Montgomery, AL | 279.9976 | hbcm.net River Region’s Journey
December 2018
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2019 Winter Bible Study
RevElatiOn 1-3 Letters to the 7 churches
Join us Sunday nights in January @ 5PM in the Oasis
Anticipating Christ Tune to Faith Radio 89.1FM throughout the Christmas season for music and programs that celebrate the coming of our Savior and anticipate His return!
Your Investment and Support Matters!
As we conclude 2018, we ask you to prayerfully consider making a Kingdom Investment in this ministry. Faith Radio is touching many lives each day and night and your much needed donation can make an eternal impact. Contact us by calling 800-239-8900 or visit our website www.faithradio.org. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 210789, Montgomery, AL 36121. Listen Live Now – www.faithradio.org • Montgomery WLBF 89.1 FM
Journey.Christmas.Ad.110818.indd 1
11/11/18 10:50 PM
— December 2 — Lottie Moon Christmas Offering Emphasis 8:30 & 11:00 AM // Main Sanctuary
— December 5 — War Room Corporate Prayer Time 12:10 PM // Main Sanctuary
— December 12 — Cookies, Cocoa & Carols 5:00 to 7:00 PM // Fellowship Hall
— December 16 — Lord’s Supper Vesper Service 5:30 PM // Main Sanctuary
— December 7-9 — The Living Christmas Tree
— December 24 — Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship
4:00 & 7:00 PM // Main Sanctuary
3:30 & 5:00 PM // Main Sanctuary
— December 11 — Senior Adult Christmas Banquet
For more information on these events, visit
5:00 PM // Fellowship Hall
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY JAY WOLF, PASTOR 305 S PERRY STREET MONTGOMERY, AL 36104 334.834.6310 // MONTGOMERYFBC.ORG
www.montgomeryfbc.org