Because you want them to have the world, and more. And because they fly higher when you become stronger.
At Frazer, we know that participating in a
WO R S HI P TIM ES
community of faith isn’t something you do only for
(two locations)
yourself. It would be easy to sleep in on Sundays—or
8, 9:30, 11am on Atlanta Highway
catch up on the million other things on your to-do list. But making space to encounter God in worship might just be worth the effort—for yourself, and for the people in your life that are riding on your shoulders. Why not check it out this Sunday? FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR CHILDREN’S, STUDENTS’ AND FAMIILY MINISTRIES AT WWW.FRAZER.CHURCH.
10am in the Pike Road School
Volume 18, Issue 10
Feature Articles
FEBRUARY 2 0 1 7 Columns page 2
Publisher’s Note
page 14
Jason Watson
Faith @ Work
Mike Vinson, owner of Adams Drugs in Montgomery, shares the story of his faith journey, including when a relationship with Jesus became real in his life and how he lives out his faith at work.
page 4
Pastor's Perspective Grady Smith, Gateway Baptist Church
page 12
Pondering the Journey Sam Whatley
page 24
The Intersection
page 16
Bob Crittenden
Hope Inspired Ministries
page 18
Women Arising Pastor Kemi Searcy
page 30
Transforming Out of Poverty
Counselor’s Corner Jessica Fernandez, Ph.D., LMFT
by Ashley Sherlock
Learn about a local ministry that takes the jobless, the undereducated and the unequipped and provides them with the tools they need to become self-sufficient citizens with self worth and dignity.
page 36
Dave $ays Dave Ramsey
In Every Issue
page 20
When Jesus Says... I Love You by Greg Morse, Desiring God Ministries
We often try to compare God’s love to our earthly love relationships, with all their ups and downs. But God’s love is from greater heights and in a class all its own. Discover why you can always be certain of his love for you. 1
page 6
Books to Read page 8
Around Our Community page 14
Faith @ Work page 26
Support Groups January 2017
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 Gena Hill
Research Editor Wendy McCollum
Contributing Writers Tim Challies Bob Crittenden Jessica Fernandez, Ph.D, LMFT Greg Morse Dave Ramsey Kemi Searcy Ashley Sherlock Pastor Grady Smith Sam Whatley
Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson Heather Watts ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 703
Ad Design
Tim Welch, Welch Designs
Distribution Team Jason Hewer Wendy McCollum Chris Mitchell, Manager Manzie Moore Jonathan Robertson Lesa Youngblood
From the Publisher A dear friend of mine was recently diagnosed with cancer. My first prayer was pleading with God to allow him more time on earth because of the impact he makes in people’s lives for God’s glory and kingdom. My friend inspires my faith and as I prayed for him I was inspired once again. My prayer went silent as I thought on the fact that God wants all His children to impact people’s lives for His glory. It’s our calling. When we encounter the brokenness of this fallen world it can be like coming out of a dream into reality. Worldliness lulls us to sleep in a fantasy that proclaims that the world is just fine. In this fantasy, it’s stated all that matters is your personal comfort, so pursue a life that achieves that. After all, you are what matters the most. Yet, we all, and thankfully so, are eventually awakened from this false narrative and brought back to reality. Scripture ends by saying when God establishes His kingdom here on earth: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4). That day is coming, but in the meantime His people remain praying and acting out “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” We get to spread the Good News that God heals and restores life through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. If you want evidence of that just keep reading through this month’s issue. It’s in every issue we print. You’ll see it in our spotlight on Hope Inspired Ministries and in our Faith @ Work interview. Also in this month’s Pastor’s Perspective and the feature story, “When Jesus Says I Love You” on page 20. God works through His people to shine light into our dark world so all can see that His ways triumph. My friend may have cancer, but cancer can’t take away his faith and hope in God and His promises. As Scripture states, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21). How are you living? Where are you living? I hope it’s in reality because that’s where God offers you healing and restoration by faith in His Son. I pray we all yield to His gracious offer of new life and share that good news with others.
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 2017 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
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Grady Smith, Gateway Baptist Church
The Only Love That Endures Forever Have you been to a wedding recently and noticed the faces of the couple? I love the way they beam with delight experiencing the height of the feeling of love. Yet, in that very emotional moment, when I officiate weddings, I remind us all that we cannot relegate love to being only an emotional feeling that comes and goes. In reality, love is not simply a feeling, though it does have an emotional component. Love is something that also is demonstrated by action. However, such an understanding of love becomes uncomfortable as it can quickly bring conviction. We say we love others, but our actions betray us. We say we love our spouse, but out of the same mouth we can say hurtful
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things to him/her. We say we love our kids, but out of the same mouth we express anger or impatience with them. And, even worse, we say we love God, but with the same mouth we use to praise Him on Sundays, we say non-loving things to others neglecting what Christ said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Not only have we done these things, in this fallen world we have experienced the pain of others who have done them to us. They say they love us, yet their actions betray their words and we feel hurt and rejection. If we are not careful, we can become disillusioned with the idea of love, but we must not. There is a love that never fails. This love is unchanging, constant, steadfast, and eternal. It is a love that existed before the world began, and a love that will still be around ten trillion years from now. That love is the love that God has for His people. We need to take time to consider His unchanging love so that we may be amazed by it and worship Him in response to it. For anyone who is a follower of Christ, Psalm 136 is a passage that I pray will fill your heart with hope. Let me encourage you to pause and read it now. It is a Psalm that was used by God’s people in the temple worship. We believe it was sung responsively. The priest read the first line and the people replied with the second. Notice 4
the response of the people is the same every time - “for his steadfast love endures forever.” Line after line, God’s children are reminded that they can give thanks because God’s love lasts, not just for a little while, but for forever. As you read through this Psalm, you will see that it begins with a reminder of God’s character and sovereign reign over all things (verses 1-3). From there, the remainder of the Psalm reminds us of God’s power and love as evident in a variety of things: His creation (verses 4-9), His deliverance of the Israelites (verses 10-16), and His provision a home for them (verses 17-22), and His ongoing provision and care for His people (verses 23-26). Notice what the Psalmist did here. He reminded the people of what has happened in their history. Then he turns that history into theology, showing how what they experienced reminds them of God’s power and love, which ultimately reminds them of God’s unchanging character. But notice what he does next; he turns theology to worship! In each reminder in this Psalm of who God is and what He has done, the people respond in worship with “his steadfast love endures forever.” Regardless of your circumstances today, realize that if you are in Christ, God’s love for you is unchanging. God loves you not because of you, but because He made you, redeemed you, and now sees you covered with Christ’s righteousness. And as God’s child, let His love and grace at work in you provide you the strength you need to love others as well. Grady Smith is the new pastor of Gateway Baptist Church in Montgomery. He received his M.Div. and Ph.D. degrees from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and previously served on a church staff in Auburn for 14 years. He is married to Julia and they have three young children.
t a O i r B l t a a t s t t w i b
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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 Story of Reality by Greg Koukl
I was wrong. I read the opening words of The Story of Reality and thought, “Here we go again.” Over the past few years we’ve been inundated with books that tell the story of the world, the story of history, through what we might call a biblical-theology lens. You are probably familiar with the standard categories: creation, fall, redemption, consummation, and new creation. Through these headings we can trace and tell the story of what God is accomplishing in this world. It’s helpful, it’s good, and it’s been done a lot recently to the benefit of the church. But this book is not that book. Not quite. Greg Koukl’s The Story of Reality is, indeed, a telling of the story of the world through a five-part wide-angle lens. The subtitle nicely fills it out: “How the World Began, How it Ends, and Everything Important that Happens in Between.” But what sets his book apart is that instead of serving primarily as a theology text, it serves primarily as an apologetic text. Koukl tells this big story for the benefit of new believers who haven’t yet assembled the various components of the faith into a coherent whole. He tells it also for unbelievers who are approaching the Christian faith as skeptics or seekers. River Region’s Journey
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The Bible is not a fairy tale crafted by ancient people to give a sense of meaning to life. It is an account of reality. Koukl means to show that the Bible makes sense of the entire world, that it forms the basis for a cohesive, coherent, satisfying worldview. In her foreword, Nancy Pearcey says it like this: “The Bible is not a fairy tale crafted by ancient people to give a sense of meaning to life. It is an account of reality. [Koukl] calls it a story only because, amazingly, it turns out that reality itself is structured like a great drama: It has a beginning and an end; it features a struggle between good and evil; it reaches a climax and then resolves into denouement and a finale. The cosmos is not just a succession of brute facts. It is the plotline of a grand story that God is telling through the verifiable events of history.” Koukl structures his telling of the story of reality around five themes: God, Man, Jesus, Cross, and Resurrection. Under the heading of God, he distinguishes between theism and two of the major contemporary challenges: Matter-ism and Mind-ism—that there is no God or that everything is god. He defends theism and the Christian understanding of God as a real, personable, eternal being. Under Man he describes humanity as beautiful, broken, lost, and evil and shows why God must express wrath toward those who defy him. 6
Then he turns to Jesus, defending him as a historical figure and showing that he came to rescue those beautiful, broken objects of God’s wrath. Cross tells of the great transaction that occurred at the cross which allows us to take advantage of a great exchange through which we give Christ our sin and he gives us his righteousness. Resurrection tells of the resurrection of Jesus and shows how his rising from the dead offers hope that we, too, can and will rise forever. It tells also of the devastating reality of an eternal judgment and calls on the reader to turn to Christ in repentance and faith. “You have one of two choices. You can bend your knee to the Sovereign, beg for mercy because of Christ, be welcomed into his family as a son or daughter, and belong to him. Or you can reject the gift, stand alone at the judgment, and pay for your own crimes against God, such as they are.” Several years ago I read Koukl’s excellent book Tactics and found that it made a deep impression on me. Much of what he said there continues to resonate and I often find myself imitating his language and concepts. The Story of Reality is a worthy successor. It is a book I would gladly hand to a believer, and perhaps especially a new believer, confident that it will help him see that the Christian faith offers good answers, the best answers, to what this world is all about, why it is the way it is, and where it is all going to end up. I would gladly hand it to an unbeliever, one who is interested in knowing what I believe and why I believe it. Koukl promises to tell the story of reality. He does, and he does it beautifully. You’ll benefit by reading his telling of how the world began, how it will end, and all the important stuff that happens in between.
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PURSUE 2017: The Digital Age
Fri, Feb 17 – Sat, Feb 18, 2017 First Baptist Church, 305 S Perry Street PURSUE Conference 2017 is a statewide Alabama collegiate ministry event challenging each student to discover “My Place in His Purpose” and explore options and opportunities to leverage their life’s career and passion for Kingdom service. The conference will feature more than 30 missionary units and career professionals who seek to follow God’s purpose wherever He has called them to serve. Call 334-834-6310.
How To Raise Spiritual Champions
February 5, 11 a.m.-noon Frazer United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery Monthly coaching for Christian parenting. The best ideas from over 12 top parenting studies and the best teachers and mentors from across Frazer to give you the tools you need to help your children grow into the best version of themselves in Christ.
Pr h in River Region’s Journey
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Mark Lowry Live!
Saturday, February 25, at 7:00 pm Montgomery PAC at the Renaissance Call 334-481-5110 or visit www.mpaconline.org.
Email your community or ministry news to deanne@ readjourneymagazine.com!
An Evening with Chonda Pierce
February 23, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. Saint James United Methodist Church 9045 Vaughn Rd • Montgomery, AL Tickets: $25 -$45 Mary Ellen’s Hearth at Nellie Burge Center will present an Evening with Christian comedian, Chonda Pierce. Proceeds from the event will go to support homeless women and children. For more information call (334) 264-4108 or visit www.nellieburge.org. 9
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Big Daddy Weave, March 17
Plus We Are Messengers, Zach Williams 7:00 pm, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Highway Call for more info at: 334-277-6300.
The Grace of God at His Vessel Ministries
His Vessel Ministries is hosting a special teaching event, The Grace of God February 18, 2017 from 9am-noon at the Vessel Room located in the Historic Union Station in downtown Montgomery, Alabama. The teaching will be conducted by Jo Hancock. Learn how to walk with God’s grace on your life everyday so your life will bring Him glory! There is no registration fee a love offering will be accepted. For more information regarding The Grace of God or to register, e-mail info@hisvessel.org or call 334-3564478. Visit our website www.hisvessel.org or www.facebook/hisvesselministries.
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Beyond Ordinary Marriage Conference
presented by Centerpoint Fellowship Church Friday, March 3rd & Saturday, March 4th at Hunter Hills Church of Christ in Prattville Cost is $100 per couple. Childcare is available for additional cost of $25 for first child, $15 for each additional child. Conference fee includes conference, breaks, continental breakfast, dinner and $5 off coupon for the Davis’ book Beyond Ordinary. Registration is required. For more information and to register online, visit centeringlives.com. CENTERPOINT HALF MARATHON AND 5K RACE Saturday, April 1 in Prattville For more information or to register online, visit centerpointhalf.com.
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Hundreds Celebrate MLK Day with Neighborhood Restoration Project Nearly 300 people joined HandsOn River Region in a morning of service to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Participants engaged in a number of outreach efforts and projects to revitalize the north Montgomery neighborhood of Highland Gardens and build a better quality of life for its residents. Volunteers spent their day off from work to make improvements to the Highland Gardens Community Center, City Park and Elementary School. The day’s activities included: grounds maintenance and improvements to the park, building hygiene kits for the homeless and shelter residents, painting the exterior of Highland Gardens Elementary School and packing disaster preparedness kits for area residents. In appreciation for their hard work, participants were treated to a wrap-up celebration with lunch generously provided by Wind Creek Hospitality. Special guest Lily Baptist Church Pastor Thomas Jordan, shown at right, who was mentored, baptized and ordained by Dr. King, opened the day with remarks reflecting on his rela-
tionship with the Civil Rights Pioneer. “Dr. King’s life is a shining example that one person can make a difference and change the course of history,” said Jo Ann Johnson, HandsOn executive director. “We’re delighted that so many chose to honor King’s legacy through the spirit of service and are hopeful that the day will inspire many to make volunteering part of their lives all year long.” HandsOn would like to thank the following event sponsors for their generous support and participation: City of Montgomery, Montgomery Clean City Commission, Montgomery Public Schools, North Precinct Service Providers Alliance, Jack Ingram Motors, Sherwin Williams and Wind Creek Hospitality. For more than 40 years, HandsOn
2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690
River Region has served to build a strong, caring community by mobilizing volunteers and connecting people with needed services. In addition to large-scale national days of service, HandsOn mobilizes 10,000 volunteers annually through coordinated projects and events year round that address the needs of the community. To find out how you can serve and help build the “beloved community” that Dr. King spoke of, visit http://volunteer.handsonriverregion.org where there are currently more than 70 opportunities available.
460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411
Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen 11
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What’s On Your To-Do List? I have noticed that some people are list makers and some are not. Some folks make a detailed grocery list before going to the store, while others get there and wander down every aisle. List makers are trying to be efficient, trying to do more in less time. So, they plan ahead. Planning ahead is a good idea, in general. But sometimes I wonder about the plan behind the plan. A military friend of mine tells me that the tactics used on the battlefield depend on the overall strategy that the officers chose when they were preparing for the battle. But that strategy depends on an assumption, hypoth-
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esis, or decision that created the need for the battle, in the first place. As many soldiers have asked, “Who started this war, anyway?” Which brings me back to our list makers. Some lists are designed to get things done that day, but others look further down the road. There are lists of things you will need on vacation, New Year’s Resolutions, and even bucket lists. We are always trying to get more things done, but do we ever stop to wonder why? Okay, certain things must get done or there will be dire consequences. If no one buys the groceries, we will not eat very well. If bills do not get paid, things we need will start to disappear. But let’s look back and see if the battles we are facing are the ones we should have chosen. Do we ever consider how we arrived at the place in life we find ourselves today? Did we get to this place by obeying God’s leading, disobeying Him, or just ignoring God all together? This is the plan behind the plan, the authority behind the authority. In other words, who rules your life? Did you stop to ask for God’s advice before you took this job, chose this school, or launched into this marriage? Or did you, as most of us tend to do, take the path of least resistance and most convenience? Many of us seldom consider that God has an interest in our daily 12
lives. We may wonder, “What does God care where I work or go to school, or even who I marry? What difference does it make to Him?” The Apostle Paul answered that question in his letter to the Ephesians. He said, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10 NIV). Did you catch that? God had a plan for our lives long before we arrived. He is not making things up on the spur of the moment. We may be doing that, but He is not. He has prepared events in our lives from here to eternity. You may have noticed that Paul said that we are “…created in Christ Jesus to do good works...” Jesus said it this way in Luke: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it” (Luke 9:23-24 NIV). So, when we willingly choose to follow Christ’s leading in our lives, we are actually becoming the people we really want to be. Then our goals make sense. Then we can feel that our work, our marriages, and our pursuits are rewarding, because we know they are pleasing to God. And then our lists make sense too, not dominate us. They allow us to do what we need to do, to be who we need to be. We can have the attitude Paul wrote to the Colossians about: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving (Colossians 3:23-24 NIV). So, whether you are one who makes lists, or a free spirit taking life as it comes, be sure you know God has a plan for your life. Listen to Him. Follow His lead.
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January 2017
River Region’s Journey
got that sweet spirit. This was a family that lived out their faith everyday in a quiet way. They went to church and were very active in church, but unfailingly showed compassion to both Christians and non-Christians. They didn’t judge or discriminate at all, but still had a deep religious faith. The members of their church accepted me whole-heartedly, loved me, and continually encouraged me. It was a small church, but I will never forget how those people made me feel. My wife never pushed me to join the church or to be baptized into her faith. Her father had a leadership role in the church as an elder. He was such a positive influence on me as a young man. I never heard him say an unkind word about anyone. Later, when he became ill, I never heard him complain. He was an inspiration to me in living as well as in dying. RRJ: As the owner of Adams Drugs, a family owned business operating in the River Region for more than 50 years, how is your faith in Christ revealed to your customers and staff?
RRJ: Growing up you said you were a churchgoing straight-laced kid, but not a Christian. Can you explain the difference? Mike: Growing up, I went to Sunday School and church every Sunday with my family. I was never involved in church activities, so I didn’t feel like it was a big part of my life. I believed in God and Jesus, but never felt like I was filled with the true spirit of Christianity. I was a pretty straightlaced kid because I had a father who made sure I behaved. I was never part of the partying crowd in high school. I really didn’t have time for it, because all my extra time was filled with sports and athletics. During those years, I had some good coaches that tried to steer me in the right direction. One of those was Lee High School Coach Jim Chafin, who I went to visit out in Texas last year. He definitely was an influence for good in my life. RRJ: God’s uses His children to call home His soon-to-be-children. That was the role your wife and her family played in your life. How did God use them to lead you to Him? Mike: My wife has one of the kindest hearts I know. That’s one of the things that attracted me to her. When I met her family, I saw where she River Region’s Journey
February 2017
Mike: I learned from my father when I was young to treat my customers with compassion. He always had a heart for those who were struggling and tried to help them out. Today, at Adams Drugs, we try to go the extra mile for our customers. They deserve our respect and appreciation, and we try to show that every day. We talk to our employees about how they can be the bright spot in a customer’s day. We strive to live out the Golden Rule--to treat others as we want to be treated. I have always tried to treat my employees fairly and with compassion. They are the face of the business, and I look at each of them as family. We have grown over the years, but I hope we never lose those values that made us who we are today.
gomery Area Council on Aging), and the Baptist Healthcare Foundation. I have worked closely through the years with AGAPE (a foster care, adoption, and unplanned pregnancy non-profit organization) and Compassion 21 (an inner-city ministry). I have been on mission trips outside of this country and sponsor many mission trips for others. I feel like I have been blessed and wish to bless others by working with various worthy organizations in our community. Those organizations include hospice groups, senior citizen groups, sports and school organizations, community projects and numerous other projects that come across my desk. RRJ: There’s no such thing as a lone-ranger Christian. How are others pouring God’s truth and love into your life? Mike: Of course, my wife is a constant source of encouragement to me. As my children have grown up, I am very blessed and encouraged by them. I have a loving and encouraging church family--too many people to name. I am part of two small accountability groups--one at church and one in the community. Both of these groups care for me, encourage me, and lift me up when I’m down. They are there for me during the good and the bad. I am a very observant person, and I see God working in so many lives around me that encourage and inspire me. Many of those people happen to be employees and some are customers. RRJ: Finally, what makes it possible for you to be so open with your faith in Christ out in the public square?
RRJ: You mentioned how many of your customers are hurting physically and your desire to serve them, but you also seem to have a heart for helping those suffering beyond your business in the ways you volunteer your time. Where are you currently volunteering and why is it important to you?
Mike: I don’t know that I openly talk about my Christianity as much as I just try to live it in a quiet, unassuming way. It has given me something far bigger than myself to look up to and lean on. I am far from perfect, and am a work in progress everyday. I am proud of my Christianity but not boastful. I see an analogy of the Bible with prescriptions that the drug store fills everyday. Am I going to follow the directions and do what the Great Physician instructs me to do in the Bible or am I just going to take the parts I want? It’s something to think about.
Mike: I try to follow the example of Jesus in Mark 10:45 where it says he came not to be served but to serve. I am currently serving on the board of Hope Inspired Ministries, MACOA (Mont-
Mike is married to his wife Lee Vinson and they have two children. Mike’s father opened Adams Drugs in 1962 and Mike began working with his dad at the age of eight. Mike and Lee have attended Vaughn Park Church of Christ for 25 years.
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Sunday Morning Small Groups - 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m.
7505 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334.396.9811 15
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easternoaks.org River Region’s Journey
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Michael Coleman had a vision in which chronically unemployed men and women could learn to find and sustain employment without judgement. In January of 2012, he brought this vision to life. Michael is now the Executive Director of Hope Inspired Ministries, a ministry that takes the jobless, the undereducated and the unequipped and provides them with the tools they need to become self-sufficient citizens with self worth and dignity. His dream is that “anyone who desires to go to work, provide for his or her family, break the destructive cycle of dependency, and become a productive citizen in the community will have the means to do so.”
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the city of Montgomery doesn’t provide public “It was when I began to work with an transportation that runs to facilities at which impoverished family that I became intimately Hope Inspired Ministries is these students could get jobs with benefits for aware of the many barriers that existed for partnering with Over the Edge, their families. Fortunately, Michael says, when those in our society. I learned that while so a company that works with the middle class becomes aware of challenges many wanted full-time employment, they either like this, they are willing to come alongside HIM could not get a job or hold on to a job. nonprofit organizations to and provide the necessary resources. The students that enroll in the Hope assist in their fundraising Michael says there are two reasons for Inspired Ministries program, high school starting this ministry. The first being that he simdropouts, addicts, former prisoners, are each efforts, to bring a new “outside ply didn’t want to duplicate what was already guided through curriculum on life skills, financial the box” type of fundraiser to being done. The second being that he wanted management, employment skills and character Montgomery. In March of what he was going to do to be transformational. building. They receive specialized training that He didn’t want anyone who was going to start will lead them in a direction of success in their this year, for $1,000, the parthe program to end it in the same place in which chosen career field. ticipants in the Over the Edge they began. The curriculum only makes up part of the Hope Inspired Ministries just celebrated process of reaching goals at Hope Inspired fundraiser will rappel down the five years of existence.Through those five Ministries. Staffers create relationships and 100-foot-tall 40 Four building in years, HIM has maintained a 75-80% employbuild trust with the students, letting them know downtown Montgomery. ment rate in their graduates, and now more that the motivation truly is to watch the students than 80% are employed, going to school, or succeed in their careers. These relationships To learn more about this both. The average recidivism rate in the state create an environment in which students can special event, or if you would of Alabama is nearly 40%, however, the rate thrive and gain confidence in themselves so like to donate, volunteer, or among HIM students who are arrested for new that, “ultimately, their hopelessness is replaced offenses is merely 4%. “If you give those in povwith an optimistic outlook that they can become purchase Hope Inspired erty a clear pathway to success,” Michael says, what their Creator intended for them to be.” Ministries branded material, Since starting this ministry, Michael says “they will most likely take it.” These successes he’s learned many lessons on poverty and the have allowed HIM to expand their ministry, visit their website at lack of resources within that structure, and that with a campus now in Birmingham. www.hopeinspiredministries.org. many people don’t even know these challenges exist. Lack of transportation is a problem that A Florida native, Ashley Sherlock made the transition to Alabama to pursue a degree in English. She has a passion for the written word, an affinity Michael mentions specifically. Many students at HIM were raised for the outdoors, a love for people, and a desire for the Lord. in families that did not have reliable means of transportation, and
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The Power of Giving Have you ever given to someone and felt something powerful in the act? There is power released when we give. I read an amazing story that illustrates perfectly the thoughts in my spirit about what even a small gift has the power to accomplish. A pastor stood in line at a convenience store. There was a family in line in front of him who did not have enough money to pay for the few items on the counter. The pastor tapped the man on the shoulder, told him to not turn around, but to take the money he offered. The man took the money, never turning around to see his benefactor. Nine years later the pastor was invited to speak in New Orleans. After the service a man walked up to him. He told the pastor about how he had come to know the Lord. Years ago, the man and his wife had lost their jobs. They lost their house, had no money, and were living in their car. They made a suicide pact, including their only child in their plans. The parents decided that they should at least give their child some milk and food before they killed themselves. While standing in line at the store, they realized they did not have enough money to pay for the few items for their child’s last meal. A man behind them offered money and asked him to please take it from his hand without looking at him. The man also told this family, “Jesus loves you.” The man shared that they then left the store, drove to a cliff, and wept for the next four hours. In their hearts they knew they could not go through with their suicide plan. Returning from the cliff they drove by a church with a sign that said “Jesus loves you.” The family went to that church the next Sunday and both parents accepted Christ that very day. River Region’s Journey
February 2017
By this time the pastor recognized the incident at the convenience store. But the question remained how the man knew the pastor was the benefactor. The man said that the minute the pastor started speaking he recognized the voice and concluded that it had to be that kind stranger from nine years ago. He would never forget the distinct accent the stranger had. You see, the pastor was from South Africa. The man said that because of this one loving act of giving, three lives were saved that day. Because the pastor shared that Jesus loved them, they found salvation in Christ. What a powerful reflection of God the Father! In John 3:16, we have the iconic scripture stating that God loved us so much that He could do nothing but “GIVE” His only begotten son as sacrifice for our sins. The most powerful attribute of love is giving! This month people all over the world are expressing their love to one another. You cannot go into Wal-Mart without seeing the pink and red roses and teddy bears everywhere. Wal-Mart understands that humans express love by giving to one another. Giving is not just limited to our loved ones. Sometimes we find more fulfillment when we give to someone we do not know. 18
I read another story of a homeless girl who lived on the streets until she was taken in by a kind family and was given a second chance. She was able to get her GED, a great job, and become a functioning part of society. What is even better about this story is that she took the talents, love and education others had given to her, and went out into those same streets where she used to live to help people. She gives love because love was given to her. Jesus says that if you give only to those who can return the favor, what then will be your reward? In other words, if you express love with the expectation it will be reciprocated, you already have your reward. Ask yourself the following questions for this season of love: • What must be your response to God’s request to give? • Who are you going to have the opportunity to bless? • Who in your community needs a hug? Let’s use February’s theme of love to find local charities, local soup kitchens, and local residents who need the arms, feet, and heart of Christ. Remember the admonishment in Matthew 25:40 telling us that when we help the least of these, we are actually helping Him. Ladies, let’s rise up to the challenge of giving and in doing so, make our King proud. Story source: http://www.city-data.com/forum/ christianity/549297-very-touching-story-power-giving.html
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A H
Often, those who have injured us the most have been love’s greatest spokesmen. The unfaithful husband sang, “My bride, my jewel, I love you!” — only to kiss her cheek and depart to his mistress’s bed. A seemingly faithful friend swore, “Brother, I love you!” — only to leave the dagger in your back after his embrace. The co-dependent mother muttered, “It’s only because I love you my child!” as she devoured him like a black widow. So we may conclude that talk is cheap. The inflation of pretty words and Hallmark sentiments bankrupt the three little words that should be most precious: I love you. In the midst of profuse pleasantries and sweet nothings, how can we — as a friend asked me the other day — trust these words when they come from our Savior’s lips?
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A Love from Greater Heights
The answer I wish I had ready for my friend is this: Jesus professes his love from greater heights. Your Romeo may have sung up to you in your tower only to leave the next morning. Your father may have professed his love to you as he tucked you into bed, only to back down the driveway and never return. Your companion may have strode side-by-side with you, laughing with what seemed to be love’s affection, only to travel on and leave you behind. But Jesus does not proclaim his love from below your castle, beside your bed, or while walking alongside you. He declares it from above: The Savior who loves you says so from above you, From high on a hill and hung up on a tree. The Savior who loves you cries so from above you, His blood paints a picture of love you can see.
Jesus did not whisper he loves you over a candle-lit dinner. He did not tell you he loves you in a penthouse suite. He did not send a card and flowers from heaven. He did not write you a poem in the clouds. He came down to be crucified. He says that he loves you as your sin hammers nails through his hands and hangs him up on a cross. He did not simply say that he loved you, he died to display that he loved you in the most powerful way imaginable. Jesus did not whisper he loves you over a candle-lit dinner. He did not tell you he loves you in a penthouse suite. He did not send a card and flowers from heaven. He did not write you a poem in the clouds. He came down to be crucified. He says that he loves you as your sin hammers nails through his hands and hangs him up on a cross. He did not simply say that he loved you, he died to display that he loved you in the most powerful way imaginable: “God shows his love for us in that while we
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were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). So how can you know that Jesus really loves you? How can you really believe that his love will not leave like others who abandoned you? Look to the place where God manifests his love for sinners. Each wound, each affliction, each nail flashes love’s lightning. Every thorn endured in his brow, every claw withstood on his back, every tolerated mock to his misery thunders behind his words of love. He did not give us a red
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rose; he spilled his crimson blood to prove his profession.
Where He Proved His Love
Don’t let experience steal your great Ruby. Do not let sinners, who vampired love of its blood, keep you from Jesus’s love evidenced by his blood. Jesus is not your ex-boyfriend. He is not your absent mother or abusive father. He is not Judas Iscariot — who came as a friend but kissed as an enemy. Jesus is not like them — nor is he like us. He received the betrayer’s kiss — our kiss — and embraced those cursed nails — our nails. And he suffered more than nails. He was forsaken by his Father as he bore our sin. He cried out from the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46). Mere men could not inflict this pain. Bring on a thousand bloody crosses before this. Bring on ten thousand thorny crowns and scourging whips before this. Jesus, forsaken by the world, forsaken by his people, forsaken by his disciples, is now forsaken by his Father. Now consider: Did he writhe in agony on a cross, lay down his life, drink your cup of judgment just to abandon you later like sinners have done in your past? Did he cross the desert of wrath, slay the great dragon, and win his bride, with intentions to eventually divorce her?
Oh How He Loves
We dishonor him by looking at the cross and seeing an unfaithful human love. Others may have abandoned you; he did not. Others may have broken promises; he does not. Others’ love expired or were broken in death; his will not. Lost soul, return home to God’s love. Beloved saint, warm yourself by the flames of this love. The Savior built an everlasting memorial of love in his death atop a hill. From these heights, he proved his trustworthiness. He exalted his word of love by lifting up his mangled body. His word stands as far beyond questioning as his body now stands beyond the reach of Roman spears. He is infinitely trustworthy — even with our love. Greg Morse is a content strategist for desiringGod.org and Master of Divinity student at Bethlehem College & Seminary.
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#T10T16 (Top 10 Topics of 2016) It is time for my annual activity, listing the “Top 10 Topics” from the previous year impacting the Christian community. Here are the “Top 10 Topics of 2016,” as announced on The Meeting House on Faith Radio the first week of the year. 10 - Noah’s Ark replica opens in Kentucky The ministry Answers in Genesis opened Ark Encounter, a life-size replica of Noah’s Ark in Northern Kentucky, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors since its opening in July. 9 - AL Chief Justice Roy Moore suspended As the result of an order he issued concerning the potential effect of the Obergefell ruling on same-sex marriage on Alabama, Chief Justice Roy Moore was suspended for the remainder of his term by a judicial body; his appeal was set to be heard by a panel of replacement judges for members of the Alabama Supreme Court, who recused themselves. 8 - Alabama lawmakers turn back gambling – again Alabama lawmakers met to consider authorizing a vote on a state lottery; an effort that was turned back in the Senate after the House approved an amendment stating that such a lottery would be on paper tickets, which would eliminate the possibility of casino-style gambling. 7 – U.S. Supreme Court directs parties in lawsuit in HHS contraception mandate for non-profits to compromise In a case of non-profit organizations, including the charity Little Sisters of the Poor, challenging the government mandate that employers provide free contraception and abortion-inducing drugs, the high court instructed the parties to try to reach a compromise. 6 - Debate over Syrian refugees; humanitarian crisis in Syria Christians attempting to balance security with compassion wrestled with how to minister to refugees from Syria who wished to come to America, while the humanitarian crisis in that nation intensified. River Region’s Journey
February 2017
5 – Islamic State and religious persecution; activities labeled genocide The effects of Islamic State’s persecution of people, including Christians, continued to be felt, and the U.S. State Department labeled activities of the terror group as “genocide.” 4 - United Methodist Church sidesteps issues of sexuality, announces formation of committee to study related issues The denomination met in Portland, OR in its General Conference, where issues concerning the Church’s position on homosexuality were expected to be addressed. Instead, the body voted for a committee to be formed. 3 - Attempts to further the LGBT agenda Georgia’s governor vetoed a bill to protect pastors from having to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies. North Carolina passed a law that said those identifying as transgender individuals were to use the restroom facilities corresponding to their biological gender. Plus, the Federal government issued a letter to school districts directing them to allow students to use facilities corresponding to their “gender identity.” A Virginia case ended up before the U.S. Supreme Court, which placed any further action in that school district on hold temporarily. 2 - Christians unite for prayer A number of national prayer gatherings were scheduled throughout the year, including a virtual prayer meeting during January, encompassing a variety of church leaders, including denominational heads. The United Cry assembly in Washington, DC, The Gathering, which was simulcast from Dallas, and the 50-state series of Decision America meetings, administered by Franklin Graham, were indicative of how Christians sensed a need to pray for our nation. 1 - “The Art of the (Evangelical) Deal” Donald Trump was elected President of the 24
United States in a contentious November General Election. Even though it was apparent that Trump was not considered part of the evangelical community, a number of Christian leaders voiced support for him; others did not, due to concerns about the candidate’s morality. Trump also made a concerted effort to reach out to that group. Even though many evangelicals voting in the Republican primary indicated support for someone else during the primary process, they came on board for Trump in November. In the end, Trump won 80% support of white evangelicals, due to their opposition to the policies embraced by his opponent, and to his promise to appoint Supreme Court justices who would uphold the Constitution. Many felt these potential justices would embrace views that are more consistent with a Christian worldview perspective on matters of life and family. Will Trump fulfill some of these hopes of many in the Christian community? That will be something to watch in the months and years to come. There are certainly areas of concern: For instance, he has said that Planned Parenthood does some good things (outside of abortion, about which he has spoken negatively). He has also not been particularly outspoken on matters surrounding the LGBT agenda. But, there are Cabinet-level appointments who show some promise in those arenas. In the meantime, people of faith can be in prayer for President Trump and other political leaders while being involved in the process of developing policy.
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.
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HOPE is found ONLY in Jesus Christ!
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Find out about this HOPE on 89.1FM and from our ministry magazine, available when you visit www.faithradio.org.
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Faith Radio is listener supported. We need your partnership to share Romans 15:13... “May the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him...” Call us to be a ministry partner (334) 271-8900 or visit our website at www.faithradio.org.
Listen LIVE Now at www.faithradio.org • Montgomery WLBF 89.1FM | Andalusia WSTF 91.5FM | Dothan WDYF 90.3FM Eufaula 91.9FM | Alexander City 94.1FM | Sylacauga 94.1FM | Thorsby/Jemison 96.9FM | Brewton 92.1FM 25
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Adoption
Alcoholic / Addict
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. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer. For information, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or email mrussell@childrensaid.org. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., First UMC, Millbrook. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For info, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@ childrensaid.org.
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: 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.
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 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: 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.
Mending kids’ hearts It’s what we do best. Our team of more than 250 pediatric professionals is recognized for its excellence by U.S. News & World Report. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Tucker and Mei Mei and every child as if that child were our own. b 22 Board-certified physicians and surgeons b 425 cardiac surgeries annually b 31 heart transplants over the past four years, with a greater than 90%one-year survival rate b 99% survival rate for all surgical patients in 2016 b 20 private CVICU rooms, 16 private CCU rooms, 2 CV operating rooms and 2 cath labs
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Learn how you can help. Visit www.ChildrensAL.org/heart For Children’s Financial Assistance information contact 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance
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Location: Prattville Church of Christ, 344 East Main St. RSVP - 12 step (Christians Against Substance Abuse-CASA) spiritual recovery program, for overcoming addictions. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 PM. Please call 334365-4201 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 visithttps://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 lifechallenging 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: 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. 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 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 11 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 272.8622. 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. Call the LifeCare office at 272-8622. 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.
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.. Contact Lorenzo and Elaine Duncan at 334-281-8158, or at duncan6563@gmail.com.
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.
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.
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Divorce Care meets each Tuesday from 6-7:30pm. in the
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Fellowship Hall Lobby. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Also, are you stuck in a pattern of going back to the same relationships or situations hoping for or expecting different results? In this new study “Never Go Back”, you will recognize and truly change those life patterns that hold you back and keep you from your goals. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org.
Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Share, Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm in the church parlor. Call 365-5977.
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.
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--Mourning to Morning Group.
Gambling
Location: Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US HWY 231 in the Wallsboro/Wetumpka community Gamblers Anonymous, Saturdays at 6 pm. 567-0476 Location: Mental Health of America Bldg, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. Location: St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy, Mondays @ 6pm. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420 or you can call 2-1-1 and ask for meeting information. Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling: 277-5100
Grief 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.
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February 2017
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: 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 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 GriefShare is a support group that meets Wednesdays from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. Call 279-5433 for more information.
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Miscellaneous 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. Location: Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Highway Take Heart is for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. The group meets the first Monday of each month at 6 pm in room 116. Contact Melissa at (205) 9132667 for more information.
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, 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. Contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Frazer mom2mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of ages birth to 5 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: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Single Moms Support Group, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in classroom 118. For more 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: 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
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 affected by a neuromuscular disease or family members of those affected. To receive information, call 3964534. 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 our website at www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Please contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@gmail.com for more information.
Same Sex Attraction
Location: Huff Community Ministry Building of First Baptist Church at 200 S. Perry Street 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 334.452.0620.
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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 more 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. 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!
January 2017
River Region’s Journey
Matthew 6:34: So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Parenting 101: Back to Basics Everyone seems to have an opinion about how to be a good parent. Books by experts and personal stories abound. You can find research testing a number of theories about different parenting styles showing the benefits and limitations of each one. As much as the new parent educates him or herself, this information is of limited use until you deal with your own children, their personalities, and the other important part of the equation – the other parent’s own ideas. Children, families, and parents are unique, thus it is hard to have a recipe book on how to do this amazing job perfectly. However, parents need to keep in mind the general focus on their obligation and responsibility for their children’s spiritual growth, emotional and physical health, and ability to become good citizens of the world. But how? These are very general ideas that are hard to define and put in practice on dayto-day living. This is especially true when parents deal with their own set of challenges and stressors like financial problems, marital, mental health and emotional issues, lack of support system, etc. Additionally, parents deal with specific issues like the child’s eating habits, sleep, discipline, schooling, etc. Therefore, it might be important to go back to the basics and have a simple view of what a parent needs to focus on: needs and values. The rest will usually fall in place, especially when you trust God in the process. River Region’s Journey
February 2017
NEEDS: Parents must define and make sure that the fundamental needs are met for the child to thrive. Abraham Maslow in 1943 proposed Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. The most fundamental level of needs are at the bottom starting with a) physiological needs, like shelter and food, b) safety, like personal, financial, health and illness, c) love and belonging, including the sense of family, friendship and intimacy, d) esteem needs come from feeling valued, important and respected, and finally to e) self-actualization, the process of the individual fulfilling his or her full potential. One cannot focus or fulfill the upper level needs until the lower ones are met. Proverbs 22:6: Train up a child in the way he should go; Even when he is old he will not depart from it. VALUES: Values are essential in parenting. They are the beliefs of what is important, what has worth, and / or what influences self and others. Values define, guide and impact behaviors, attitude, and goals of humans in general. Parenting requires defining, teaching, modeling, clarifying and guiding the values you want your children to live by. These will ultimately steer and define whether the children can strive toward the pinnacle of Maslow’s Hierarchy pyramid of self-actualization. Therefore, parents need to start by defining – and, if there is another parent or caretaker at home, outline together – the values you would like to live by and instill in your child or children. Not only talk about the values, but model, practice, and correct yourselves. Find moments to teach life lessons according to your values. Be intentional. Here are just a few to start with:
1. Respect 2. Compassion 3. Faithfulness
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4. Friendship 5. Honor 6. Independence 7. Health 8. Justice 9. Love 10. Peacefulness 11. Reliability 12. Tolerance 13. Trust 14. Humility 15. Integrity 16. Modesty 17. Loyalty 18. Religion 19. Cleanliness 20. Knowledge 21. Patience 22. Morality 23. Service 24. Gratitude 25. Trust 26. Wealth 27. Joyfulness 28. Gentleness 29. Creativity 30. Excellence
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Titus 2:7: Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity. In conclusion, consider two basic imperatives in parenting 101: First, meet the child’s critical needs for love, support, and protection, and second, with personal and genuine integrity, select and intentionally model the long-term values that you pray your child will live by.
Jessica Gibbe-Fernandez, Ph.D. is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Alabama. She is originally from Mexico and fully bilingual in Spanish and English. Ms. Gibbe-Fernandez joined the center in 2006 and currently serves as the Clinical Coordinator. Jessica’s clinical interests include marriage and couples therapy, healthy relationships, and family therapy. She sees adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, stress, transitional issues, gender issues, family adjustment, acculturation issues, self-esteem and personal growth issues.
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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,
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?
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January 2017
River Region’s Journey
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Just before the Christmas holidays, Lesley Dormen’s phone rang. The voice at the other end was so frail and frightened she had a hard time recognizing that it was Toni, her former college roommate. Though they had been close in school, they didn’t speak often nor did they see each other much as both lived in different cities. “What’s wrong?” asked Lesley. “I have cancer,” Toni replied. She was anxious because it was a recurrence of the breast cancer she’d been treated for 10 years earlier and had now spread to her stomach and ribs. Unmarried and living alone, Toni had recently experienced her first three rounds of chemotherapy. Extremely weary and discouraged, she phoned her college friend who listened compassionately. When the conversation was over, Lesley River Region’s Journey
February 2017
immediately called an airline and made a reservation. Next she phoned her husband at work to let him know that they would have to cancel all their weekend plans. Finally, she called Toni back saying “I am coming over this very weekend.” During that time, they cooked and ate together, selected a wig to cover her balding head, looked through piles of old photographs and laughed together. As the weekend drew to an end, Toni said to Lesley: “This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me.” Because of the magnificent way Lesley extended friendship, Toni’s spirits were raised significantly. Friends are the most important ingredient in the recipe called ‘life’. Good friends help us not only deal with traumas and 32
trials but guide us in our relationships, pilot us through our careers, motivate us when our spirit is weak, and help us adjust to life’s many changes and challenges. “Friendship is one of the sweetest joys of life. Many might have failed beneath the bitterness of their trial had they not found a friend,” observed minister and author Charles Haddon Spurgeon. Similarly, the Bible stresses the importance of friendship: “Two are better off than one, because together they can work more effectively. If one of them falls down, the other can help him up. But if someone is alone and falls, it is just too bad because there is no one to help him.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, Today’s English Version) Here are seven ways to be a better friend.
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cultivating the attitudes which nurture and grow a relationship. The mindset for friendship includes encouragement, support, positive reinforcement, showing and speaking your love and appreciation. In his book The Fine Art of Friendship, Ted W. Engstrom says deep friendships are forged on praise and seeing the good in another. To further those goals, he invites people to consider these questions: “Why is it often so difficult for us to say an encouraging word to those we love the most? Why do we tend to overlook the obvious good and dwell instead on the negative? What are the reasons for the roadblocks we set up that keep us from truly being a friend to those we love the most? What can we do to change our attitudes and behavior?”
#2. When your friend is in crisis, show up. Let your friendship be a shelter-
ing tree from the blistering sun of adversity. Show up for your friend whenever he or she experiences a crisis. Go to the funeral when a friend’s loved one has died. Visit your friend when he or she is hospitalized. Offer your unconditional support, your undivided atten-
tion, your shoulder to lean on. When Vivian’s husband ended his life by suicide, she called her friend Jonathan who immediately came to her home. He helped Vivian with funeral arrangements, fielded phone calls, stayed at her side during the entire funeral visitation, sat beside her in the chapel during the service and accompanied her to the cemetery. “It was the saddest period in my life. I don’t know how I could have endured it all without Jonathan’s constant presence at my side,” she says.
#3. Stand by your friends. Journalist Walter Winchell’s defined friendship this way: “A friend is one who walks in when others walk out.” When your friend is under criticism or attack, stand with them. The model for this loyalty is Jesus. In Mark 2 the Pharisees came to Jesus criticizing his disciples because they picked and ate wheat on the Sabbath. Obviously, Jesus knew the rules and that his disciples had indeed violated Jewish law. However, instead of attacking his friends, he defended them by reminding the Pharisees that human need triumphed over Jewish dietary rules and regulations. “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath,” he bluntly told the Pharisees. Another example of Jesus standing by someone under attack is
in John 8. A woman accused of adultery was dragged before him. Clearly she had violated Jewish law. At a critical time in his ministry, Jesus could have won the Pharisees support and approval by agreeing with them. Instead, he defended the woman by asking the Pharisees: “If any of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.”
#4. Walk in your friends shoes.
Do this especially when you find yourself questioning some action your friend has taken. Doing so will prevent you from making careless, friend destroying judgments. Consider this wisdom from Florence Isaacs author of Toxic Friends; True Friends. “Not everyone feels the same way about a situation. To understand why people do the crazy things they sometimes do, put yourself in their place and try to understand their point of view.”
#5. Apply your faith. When a friend is discouraged, upset, or facing a life challenge, bring spiritual resources to bear. Salley Shannon tells about a time when she was struggling with a freelance writing assignment. She mentioned the issue to a good friend who
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Experience the inspiring story of
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Katherine & Jay Wolf
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#1. Cultivate friendship attitudes. Being a better friend means
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of Hope Heals Ministry AGAPE of Central Alabama’s 3rd Annual Connecting Hearts Fundraiser to Help Children Katherine, a survivor of a near-fatal
28 FEB 2017
6:00-6:30 pm VIP Meet and Greet 6:30-7:00 pm Book Signing
o
Alley Station Warehouse, downtown Montgomery
be
For tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit connectinghearts.org
7:00-8:00 pm Featured Event
brain stem stroke, and husband Jay have overcome major trials with God’s grace. Come hear their story of triumph while
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helping AGAPE bring hope to families.
January 2017
River Region’s Journey
listened and then responded: “Wow, would you like me to pray for you?” Shannon recalls thinking: there is no gracious response to that but ’yes, thank you.’ Her friend’s prayer left a permanent impression on Shannon. What she prayed was this: “Thank you that Salley has this opportunity, which will provide money for her family to live on. Thank you that she can do it in a comfortable office right in her own home. Thank you for her editor’s trust in her.” That prayer nudged Shannon out of the mire of self-pity. “I had lost sight of a cornerstone principle of my life: to live every day in a spirit of thanksgiving.” When their conversation was over, Shannon says she went right back to work. “I can’t say I enjoyed the writing. But I did it gratefully, conscious all the wile that I could have been doing work I liked even less.”
#6. Celebrate important events together. The headline in the local
newspaper at McMinnville, Oregon read: One prom. One boy. Seven dates. One prom date is usually a major event in the life of a
teenager, but Luke Buchheit, 17, pulled off an incredible feat by bringing seven young ladies to the prom. As the big day approached, Buchheit didn’t know who to invite so he asked his cousin how many girls still had no dates for the big dance. “I might have been half-joking at first when I said I’d take them all, but then I thought, this might be kind of cool,” he said. So in the weeks before the May 2 prom, Luke made seven phone calls. Then he ordered seven corsages and a boutonniere with seven rhinestones. He also worked to raise $500 to buy eight prom tickets, his tux and an eight-person dinner. Seated at the head of the table, flanked by two rows of glittering
females, Luke couldn’t help but feel it was worth it. Men stopped to pat him on the back. An elderly woman worked up the nerve to ask what everyone else was wondering: “Does one of you have a date and the rest are going alone?” she asked. “No,” the girls said. “We’re all going with Luke.” Though the girls joked about “Luke’s harem,” friendship overruled romance. Many of the teens have known each other since kindergarten. The lesson: being a better friends involves celebrating important events together whether it’s a prom, a graduation, a promotion, a birth, a baptism, etc. Always remember this: though friendship may not remove a person’s troubles and difficulties it softens the blow and strengthens the will. Lesley Dormen summarizes her weekend visit with Toni this way: “Did I restore her thick, wavy hair? Did I beat back her cancer? No. I simply gave what was in my power to give - some small measure of comfort.” In our daily living, the simple act of extending friendship diminishes grief and increases joy. Victor M. Parachin is a minister and author of a dozen books.
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River Region’s Journey
February 2017
34
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EASTWOOD
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MOLDING BOYS INTO MEN We believe in a classical understanding of what it means to be a man. A man should strive to blend three parts of life: Gentleman, Warrior, Saint. What the medievals meant by these terms was that a gentleman is an educated burdenbearer for society. A warrior is a defender of that which is true and right. A saint has the biblical mind and heart from which being a gentleman and warrior spring. At Eastwood Christian School our boys and girls are given a rigorous, classical education. They are well rounded in sports and the arts so as to produce a warrior spirit. They are saturated with a biblical worldview and are taught to think critically as a Christian. Finally, there is an environment of mentoring - the older serve the younger. Our board and staff have been assisting families in this biblical vision for 20 years.
EA STWOOD C HR IS TIA N SC HOOL MONTGOMERY / ALABAMA 334.272.8195 WWW.EASTWOODSCHOOL.ORG 35
January 2017
River Region’s Journey
Q. My dad has been really bad with money his entire life. Anytime he would get into trouble, my grandparents would always bail him out. This time he came to my wife and I, asking for $350 to get out of overdraft at the bank. We’re trying to live on a budget and get control of our finances, and $350 would make things kind of tight at the moment. What do you think we should do?
A. I understand feeling an obligation to help your dad. But there’s a lesson here that dad needs to learn, and it’s something that goes much deeper than the money or helping out a family member. You have to do the right thing, no matter how dad reacts to this. Right now, the right thing is taking care of your family and not putting them in jeopardy. So my answer to dad would be no. Another thing that needs to happen is for the definition of “help” to change. When you say he’s been irresponsi-
River Region’s Journey
February 2017
ble with money his whole life, giving him $350 won’t help — and it will make you an enabler. Just handing him $350 will actually hurt him, and it will give him the idea he can continue being dumb with money and hit you up for cash anytime. Like I said, I understand the pull of helping out a parent. So if you feel this is something you absolutely must do, I would advise making the $350 contingent on the fact that he begin and complete a financial counseling course. Be gentle when you talk to him, and let him know it hurts to see him struggling. But let him know, too, it’s his responsibility to work through his debts and take care of his own finances!
Q. My wife and I owe $90,000 on our
mortgage, and we have no other debt. We are able to save about $20,000 a year, so we could have the house paid off in just over four years. She likes the idea of having lots of money saved up, but I would love to be completely debt-free. Should we pay off the house or hang on to the savings?
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A. Let’s pretend your house is already
paid for in full. Would you borrow on your home so that you had enough cash that your wife liked it? You say you wouldn’t, so what’s the difference? If you had a paid-for house and you wouldn’t borrow on it to have cash laying around to feel better, why wouldn’t you use the cash laying around to pay off the house? It’s the same thing. The first thing you want to consider is having an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. You also need to make sure you’re putting aside 15 percent of your income for retirement. Other than that, if you have enough cash laying around to pay off your home and you don’t, it’s the same thing as having borrowed on your home in order to have cash laying around. If I’m in your shoes, as soon as the emergency fund is in place — six months of expenses since your wife likes the security factor — and 15 percent is being put away for retirement, I’d take the other money and throw it at the house. Get that thing paid off as fast as you can!
Get tested DURING your pregnancy! Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection on to her baby during pregnancy.
Congenital syphilis is PREVENTABLE Congenital syphilis can cause: • Miscarriage (losing the baby during pregnancy), stillbirth (a baby born dead), or death shortly after birth. • Up to 40% of babies born to women with untreated syphilis may be stillborn, or die from the infection as a newborn. Babies born with congenital syphilis can have: Deformed bones, severe anemia (low blood count), enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), nerve problems, like blindness or deafness, meningitis and skin rashes.
Get tested 8 weeks BEFORE delivery!
For more information, go to cdc.gov/std/syphilis.
Join us as we host missionaries and church planters from around the world at the 2017 Global Impact Celebration and the Pursue Collegiate Conference. Guest speakers include:
Gordon Fort
Duane Ostrem
David Boudia
February 15 - 19
www.gic2017.com 305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.org
J.D. Payne
Caleb Crider