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livinglightnews.com MARCH/APRIL 2014
YEAR 19 • ISSUE 5 • $4
Chronic
love without limit by Lailani Mendoza
They knew the risks but went all the way for love.
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FINISHING WITH FAITH
“Why not you?” his father often asked. Well, any football fan could tick off reasons: the young QB was barely 5-11 (“more like 5-10 and five-eighths,” he admits). And he had a build better suited to rounding bases than slinging passes. Plus, his college training started not at an SEC powerhouse but at North Carolina State University. Even when an NFL team finally did choose the Richmond, Va. native – 75th, after five other quarterbacks – it was a team
replete with local loyalty but little national cred. A team, in fact, that had never won a Super Bowl. That all changed on Feb. 2 when the undersized quarterback reminded his teammates of his dad’s saying, asking them, “Why not us?” There were definitely reasons, but the Seattle Seahawks didn’t listen, destroying the Denver Broncos with a 43-8 rout of Super Bowl XLVIII. It’s a good thing Russell Wilson never listened, either.
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“I had so many people telling me I couldn’t do it,” Wilson told postgame reporters. “I wanted to go against the odds.” Call it a habit. Raised by a lawyer and nurse consultant, Wilson, 25, grew up playing football and baseball with his brother and sister. While athleticism ran in the family – his father Harrison played on the San Diego Chargers’ preseason squad – height didn’t. Besides, the Baltimore Orioles drafted the infielder straight out of high school in
2007, so who cared? Wilson did. He opted to play both baseball and football for the Wolfpack then a year of minor league baseball with the Colorado Rockies in 2010. He continued as he transferred to the University of Wisconsin’s football squad the following year. The 206-pounder posted solid stats, tossing 33 touchdowns and breaking the school’s single-season passing record while also appearing in the Rose Bowl. The 33 TDs were the second-most in Big Ten
History (just six behind Drew Brees) and good enough for the single-season FBS passing efficiency record. Major league baseball still held out hope for the multi-sport athlete, but Wilson announced his NFL intentions in early 2012. Rockies executive Bill Schmidt told ESPN his franchise “thought [Wilson’s] future would be better in baseball. But … if football doesn’t work out, he can come back and play baseball.” continued on page 2
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Living Light News - March/April 2014 by Lailani Mendoza Teaching in a war-torn country wasn’t initially in Ronnie Smith’s plans. For the University of Texas grad, pursuing a PhD and starting a career as a professional chemist would have been a safer route. It was something the young husband and father considered. But Ronnie didn’t live within his comfort zone. Smith believed in living life with conviction and taking necessary risks for a bigger purpose. In December 2011, Ronnie, wife Anita and son Hosea left Austin, Tex. – listed by the FBI as the second safest major city in the U.S. – to settle in Benghazi, Libya, one of the most dangerous cities in the Middle East. Kidnappings and terrorism have plagued Libya since the 2011 civil war that ousted Colonel Muammar Gaddhafi and ended his 42-year dictatorship. The violence extended into Benghazi, the country’s second largest city., where U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and four diplomats were killed when Islamic militias attacked the U.S. consulate on Sept. 11, 2012. “Bed time. Cue the bombs,” Ronnie tweeted, describing the turmoil that residents have come to accept as part of normal life there. The move wasn’t a haphazard decision for the Smiths. Ronnie accepted the job at the International School of Benghazi (a school for students ages three to 18) wanting to make a difference. While Ronnie wondered how he would adjust to a culture so different, he and Anita nevertheless embraced the challenge. Over a year and a half, they learned to communicate in Arabic. They also enjoyed making friends with their neighbours and other locals. “We were excited to learn about Libyan culture,” said Anita. To his students, Ronnie became more than a teacher. On his Twitter account, Ronnie described himself as “Libya’s best friend” – his students would agree.
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Living Light News #200, 5306-89 Street NW Edmonton, AB, Canada T6E 5P9 Telephone: 780-468-NEWS (6397) Fax: 780-468-6872 Email: shine@livinglightnews.com Publisher: Living Light Ministries Editor: Lailani Mendoza IT Manager: Kevin Schulthies Advertising & Prayer Coordinator: Susan Meyer Advertising Sales: Jeff Caporale Office Volunteer: Carlo van Berkel Office Volunteer: Margaret Smith Layout/Design: Son Dexter Layout/Design: Inspired Creativity Layout/Design: Sheena Seinen Living Light News is published six times a year by Living Light Ministries, a non-profit corporation, on a bi-monthly basis. If you have interesting story ideas or helpful news or information which glorifies God, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact us by telephone, mail, fax or email. Writers may request a copy of our guidelines (or visit www.livinglightnews. com). While your input is welcome we cannot be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos.
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Ronnie Smith and family
now, Libya will also succeed.” “He seemed very excited about the work he was doing,” Nathan Hlavin, Ronnie’s friend of 20 years, told AP. “He believed he was making a difference in his students’ lives.” A follower of Jesus Christ, Ronnie saw his job as part of God’s plan for his life. A former staff member at Austin Stone Community Church, he said he believed God brought him and Anita to Libya for a purpose. “He wanted to shine the light and the love of Jesus to the Libyan people that he knew,” said Anita. Nobody realized just how much of an impact Ronnie made until one fateful day. On Dec. 5, 2013 Ronnie went jogging on his regular route near the U.S. consulate. A black Jeep approached and unidentified
Continued from page 1
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They said he was a teacher who would bake cookies and sing Happy Birthday in Arabic for students. He joked and bantered with students, taking trips to the beach with them. As a student said, “He had a way of making fun of you in the most likable of ways.” He also tutored students for free in their homes and motivated students to do well in school. “He believed we were the future,” 18-year-old Abdullah Gair, Ronnie’s former student, told The Associated Press. “He said we were the foundation for the essence of this country and that if we were to succeed photo courtesy Austin Stone Community Church
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men gunned him down in broad daylight on one of the busiest streets in Benghazi. He was 33. His death prompted an outpouring of tribute on Twitter with the hashtag #MrSmithMemories. His wife Anita shocked the world with her response to her husband’s tragic passing. Merely a week after the incident, Anita posted an open letter online addressing the people who killed her husband. “I love you and I forgive you,” Anita wrote. “How could I not? For Jesus taught us to ‘Love our enemies.’ ” Two weeks later, she did an interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper and reiterated her message. “I honestly don’t feel any anger towards them,” she told him. “I just want them to know that God loves them and can forgive them for this.” A stunned Cooper asked Anita if this is how she truly felt – no anger, no hate. “That’s how I honestly feel,” she responded. “It may sound crazy. It’s God’s spirit that’s putting this inside me.” “It doesn’t sound crazy, it sounds like you’re a remarkable person to feel this,” Anderson replied. While her husband’s life may be cut short, Anita urges people to honour Ronnie by remembering the one whom he lived for: Jesus Christ. “I hear people speaking with hate, anger and blame over Ronnie’s death, but that’s not what Ronnie would want. Ronnie would want his death to be an opportunity for us to show one another love and forgiveness, because that’s what God has shown us.” “I want all of you – all of the people of Libya – to know that I’m praying for the peace and prosperity of Libya. May Ronnie’s blood, shed on Libyan soil, encourage peace and reconciliation between the Libyan people and God.” Austin Stone Community Church publishes The History of Redemption, an illustrated collection of Scriptures edited by Ronnie Smith, with proceeds going to support the Smith family. For more information, visit historyofredemption.org.
kind of a bad kid growing up,” he says in the video “The “My dad used to always tell me, ‘Russ, why not you?’ ” Making of a Champion.” “I used to beat up kids and fight … Wilson said. “And what that meant was believe in yourself, I knew about God, but I was always playing sports.” believe in the talent God has given you.” The video, produced and His faith is a common topic for his 680,000 funded by players and coaches Twitter followers; Wilson regularly tweets and given out before the Bible verses, even posting a photo of himself Super Bowl, features several at church on Super Bowl Sunday. And what Seahawks discussing their faith a Sunday it was for Wilson – 206 yards, two in Christ. Nearly 500,000 people touchdowns and 11 consecutive second-half have since viewed the 15-minute completions. He was quick to credit his Saviour clip (makingofachampion.org). not for the win but for the assistance needed When Wilson was 14, he had a to get there. dream that his father had died. “It’s a true, true blessing,” Wilson said. “God Strangely, Jesus was knocking on is so good.” the teenager’s door, telling him, And He would be whether Wilson won a “Hey, you need to find out more championship or not. about me.” “At the end of the day, we’re all looking for The dream so moved Wilson that somebody to be there for us at all times,” he told he promptly went to church and Pastor Mark Driscoll days before the big game. began a true relationship with God. “When we’re at the worst times of our lives … Russell Wilson when we are at our highest point as well … we Six years later, he clung to that relationship more than ever as his want somebody to comfort us and be there for us dad, 55, passed on from diabetes-related complications. and to say, ‘Well done.’ That’s Jesus!”
The Seattle fans, now famously known as the Seahawks’ raucous “Twelfth Man,” has one response: it’s worked out, sir. The hardworking Wilson beat out two teammates for the starting Seattle quarterback slot. By season’s end, their rookie leader had started all 16 games, running and passing his way into the postseason. Wilson also earned the fan-voted Rookie of the Year award and tied for most touchdowns thrown by a newbie (26). The guy he tied? Peyton Manning – the legend Wilson would eventually face in football’s ultimate prize. But first came the Seahawks’ first-ever 4-0 start in 2013. Drawing comparisons to Colin Kaepernick and Robert Griffin III – similar QBs with bolt-ready legs and arms – Wilson again finished the season with 26 touchdown passes. He also became the first quarterback in the Super Bowl era with a 100+ passing rating for each of his first two seasons. Not to mention he snagged more wins than any other twoseason QB in NFL history. “He’s the general,” said teammate Percy Harvin. “I haven’t seen anybody prepare the way he prepares.” Wilson – only the second African-American QB with a Super Bowl ring – admits it wasn’t always this way. “I was
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Newsbriefs Soul Surfer Inspires WASHINGTON, DC – Bethany Hamilton made a splash at the 62nd National Prayer Breakfast in Washington held Feb. 16, receiving a standing ovation from US President Barack Obama and the 3,500-strong audience. The 24-year-old pro surfer lost her left arm in a shark attack at 13, but her courageous battle to get back on the surfboard and realize her dream of competing professionally has inspired people the world over. At the event, the Soul Surfer read the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37) and a passage from Ephesians 3:14-21. “It is easy to look at the things of this world to solve our challenges and the obstacles in life,” she
said, addressing the audience, which includes legislators and clergy. “But when we submit our lives to Christ, His grace, mercy, truth, peace and love will bring fulfillment to our lives.” Hamilton affirmed she has “no regrets for the adversities” she encountered and credits God for helping her overcome the obstacles. She asserted that “God has taken something that seems awful to something incredibly amazing.” The Kauai native said her goal is “ultimately to share the hope and salvation that there is in Jesus Christ” to the young people she mentors. The pro surfer recently took on a role in the movie Dolphin Tale 2 coming out in Sept. 2014.
Bud’s Still Belting The Blues BRUCE, MI – Leo “Bud” Welch finally did it. The Mississippi bluesman recently released his debut album Sabougla Voices at the ripe age of 81. Executives of indie label Fat Possum were so impressed with Welch’s soulful chops that they asked the octogenarian to sign a record deal on the spot. Sabougla Voices is Welch’s Southern life story and bluesy gospel, distilled into 10 lively tracks. “The blues ain’t nothing but something about your life,” Welch told The Nashville Scene – and does he have a story to tell. Born in 1932, Welch taught himself how to play guitar, sneaking a cousin’s guitar he wasn’t allowed to touch. He landed an audition with B.B.
King, but without enough money to get to Memphis, Welch had to let the opportunity pass. “I think that was too early in life. I tell people now if I’d have went on then, no telling where in the world I might be. But the Lord knows best. And I think now is just my time.” For 30 years, he worked as a logger and sang at church circuits, honing his music until his big moment arrived. Waiting on God is something Welch has learned, and even sings about in “You Can’t Hurry God.” Welch shares, “We just have to trust Him, believe in Him and give Him time. He may not come when we want Him to come, but anytime He comes, He’s always on time.”
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Bestseller To Big Screen IMPERIAL, NE – The New York Times bestselling book Heaven Is For Real is hitting the big screen April 16. Produced by Sony Pictures, the movie will be the latest in a string of faith-inspired movies, which include Noah and Son of God. Selling over eight million copies, the book tells the astounding account of four-year-old Colton Burpo who went to heaven and back. Colton’s experiences include meeting a miscarried sister and a great-grandfather in heaven. The boy also knew where his parents were and what they were doing – his dad venting at God in the hospital chapel and his mom talking on the phone – while he was on the operating table. Todd Burpo, Colton’s dad and co-author of the book, hopes this new medium will help spread the
book’s inspiring message to more people. At its core, the movie encourages people to re-examine what they think of the afterlife. “This movie is going to cause everyone, in the right way, to ask ‘What do I believe?’ and ‘Should I believe?’ ” the Nebraskan pastor told Christian Post. Ultimately, Burpo hopes viewers will consider the reality of heaven and what this could mean in people’s lives. “Anyone who believes in heaven has to understand it’s God’s house,” he told Living Light News. “God said ‘If you know My Son Jesus, if you have a relationship with My Son ... you can be sure of one thing – one day when you step across the threshold into eternity, everything is going to be made right in a place called heaven.”
WILLOW, AK – DeeDee Jonrowe isn’t slowing down. The legendary musher might be 60 years old but on March 1, she will be back leading her pack of Huskies at the 2014 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. The arduous 1,850 kilometre, multi-day race – which requires trekking over treacherous mountain terrain, dense forests and frozen rivers in subarctic temperatures – is not for the weak. Jonrowe, who competed in 2002 just weeks after her chemo to fight breast cancer, certainly isn’t. Debuting in 1979, Jonrowe has competed in 31 Iditarods over the years with 16 top 10 finishes (including last year). She holds the fastest
Iditarod time for a woman and three second place finishes. “Nobody gets rich doing this,” the Musher Hall of Famer told Living Light News. “I do it because I love it.” There’s an even greater passion for the Alaska native than The Last Great Race on Earth – Jesus Christ. “It is my desire to honour God in my racing and daily life,” said Jonrowe, adding she feels God’s presence the strongest in a race surrounded by nature. Her faith in God and fierce determination keep her going – through cancer, back surgery, frostbite, or even aging. As she told the Baptist Press, “You win when you simply don’t allow yourself to stop trying.”
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MONTREAL, QC – On Jan. 21, 2014, Anthony Calvillo announced his retirement from pro football after a stellar 20-year CFL career. The beloved Montreal Alouettes QB may have retired due to injury, but not before he made a mark on the books. The 41-year-old’s astounding legacy includes being a three-time Grey Cup winner, three-time Most Outstanding CFL player and all-time CFL leader in passing yards, TDs, and completions. But the stats tell only half the story. Raised in a poor family, the California native endeared himself to the public with his humility and character even after making it big. In 2007, he stepped away from the game temporarily to support his wife Alexia who was diagnosed with
The Power Of A Promise MURRIETA, CA – It was a father’s promise and a family’s extraordinary love that made all the difference for Mikey Cortez. Austin Miguel Cortez was the youngest of four kids, a gregarious boy with a fondness for practical jokes. The energetic seven-year-old’s life changed forever after a terrible accident in 1982 left him in a coma. The Cortez clan was on their way to San Diego when a drunk driver collided with the family van head-on. The doctors told Paul, Mikey’s dad, that Mikey may not make it. “I prayed to God,” Paul told The Associated Press, “to walk our families through this. And He did.” He promised God that if his son survived, his
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Easter Essentials by Andrew Hess
E
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. He also gave them His peace, saying “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you” (John 14:27). Knowing what was coming, He reminded them He is the Prince of Peace and He shared this peace with them. Jesus then reminded them of His great love, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in My love” (John 15:9). He wanted disciples to continually abide in His love – to let His great love be always in their hearts and minds. He later said, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Jesus laid His life down for us. There has never been – nor will there ever be – a greater love than Christ has for the world. Lastly, Jesus desired that His people share His joy. “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11). Notice what Jesus didn’t say. He didn’t say “I want you to have a taste of My joy.” No, He said “I want you to have the fullness of My joy.” Hours before He entered into His suffering, Jesus was looking out for others. He was encouraging and comforting His disciples with reminders of hope, peace, love and joy. This is the beautiful heart of Christ. In the very moment we might expect Him to be concerned only about Himself, He was taking care of His own. For Christians, it is a wonderful thing to be full of Christ’s love, joy and peace. May you enjoy them in fresh ways this Easter season. Andrew Hess is a Research Associate for Family Formation Studies at Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs, CO. You can follow Andrew on Twitter at @AndrewWHess.
“Son, I’d like to spend more quality time together. Would you accept me as a Facebook friend and let me follow you on Twitter?”
Ungrumpy Old Men by Phil Callaway
B
e honest. How’s your sense of humour? Have you sprained your funny bone lately? A lack of joy can be triggered by many things. For me, these include worry, anger, criticism from others, physical ailments, including a hangnail or an itch between my third and fourth toes, chronic hiccups, bad weather, and focusing on all that’s wrong about the times in which we live. It’s all about attitude, isn’t it? And a bad attitude and a wrong focus are always reflected on our face. I once met a man who prided himself on how grumpy he was. He had been evicted from restaurants, taxis, movie theatres, a football game, even a hair salon. He was impatient with lineups, bitter with friends, critical of everyone, and generally an embarrassment to be around. Do you know someone like that? I hope not. But maybe you’ve given in to grumpiness yourself. Sure, you resolved to never be like one of those old guys. Then life happened. Stuff began to hurt. People began to irritate. And your natural reflex action looked like a
s Phil Callaway highlight reel from Grumpy Old Men. Wise old Solomon told us in the book of Proverbs that three things happen when our funny bone is in a cast. He wrote, “A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but a broken heart crushes the spirit…A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” When the joy fades three things occur: we lack inner healing, we contract driedup boneitis, and we get a little bonus: a broken spirit. I don’t know about you, but I’d prefer a swift kick with a cold boot. The solution is as simple as heart surgery. And it’s cheaper than you think. A friend and I were enjoying lunch in a restaurant, when a couple nearby began to complain loudly about the food. Right
then something hit me. Not a plate of pasta, but a thought. So I said to my friend, “I think it’s impossible to live a cranky life when we simply give thanks to God for the food.” I’m not legalistic or irritating about this, but it’s a habit I’ve formed. And it has led to an attitude of gratitude that can’t help but bring with it a cheerful heart. A healthy sense of humour comes to grateful people and
Humour that’s tactless, unkind, and offensive always burns bridges – it never builds them. How do we pass this along to our children? Ray Stedman had some wise advice on how to teach our kids to get up each morning. “First, we stretch. That gets the body going. Then, smile. That puts the soul in the right attitude, so that we don’t start the day grumbling. And then say, ‘God loves me.’ Because that
I don’t know about you, but I’d prefer a swift kick with a cold boot. those who do these three things as well: 1. They laugh at themselves. Their inconsistencies. Mistakes. Like when I fell off a stage while speaking. They laugh at embarrassing moments. Like the lady who jumped on the wrong husband’s back in the mall. 2. They accept warranted criticism. Believe me, I’ve had my share. It’s good for us, if we learn from it and get over it. 3. They keep it clean.
sets the spirit right. You are reminding yourself of your identity in that way. And body, soul, and spirit, you are starting the day right. Stretch, smile, and say, ‘God loves me.’ ” I plan on following this advice myself. If I do, I’ll never be evicted from a hair salon. Although they might kick me out for baldness. Phil Callaway is a speaker, best-selling author, and host of Laugh Again Radio. Check it out at laughagain.org
www.glasbergen.com © 2014 by Randy Glasbergen
ach year during Easter week, I intentionally carve out some time for extra reading, thinking, and praying about the many reasons we celebrate Easter. Quiet moments are great times to consider what Jesus accomplished for us through His death and resurrection. This year, I’ve been s Andrew Hess thinking about how Jesus prepared His disciples for what was about to happen to Him. It was a chilly Thursday night in Jerusalem. Jesus and His disciples had arrived earlier in the week along with many others. Jesus had spent much of this week teaching them. On this particular Thursday night, He enjoyed a meal with these men and then surprised them by washing each of their feet. After the meal, the band of brothers made their way to the Garden of Gethsemane outside the city walls. Along their way, Jesus offered them what we now know were His last instructions before His arrest, trial, and death just hours later. These are very precious words. In John 13, the apostle wrote, “Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.” Jesus loved them with a series of encouraging reminders. He wanted those men – and us – to remember these precious truths. First of all, Jesus reminded them of their great hope. He told them, “I go to prepare a place for you and I will come again and take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also” (John 14:3).
Living Light News - March/April 2014
Says Who? Using Words Of Grace
Feed The Dog
s Marcia Laycock by Marcia Laycock
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raise the Lord, oh my soul. Psalm 103:1” It was printed on a small card on the hospital breakfast tray. I had just given birth to my first child, a beautiful baby girl the doctors said could never be. She was God’s gift to me, the direct and deliberate proof of His love that melted my hardened heart and turned my life around. On that cold morning in November, 31 years ago, I smiled as I continued to read the words of that Psalm. At that moment, I had more joy and love surging through me than I would ever have believed possible. So at that moment I didn’t need the words to tell my soul to praise God. My soul was overflowing with praise. But sometimes I do need those kinds of reminders. Like the psalmist David,
“
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there are times when I need to command my soul to praise, to be thankful, to be still, to obey. Like David, there are things in my life that block the righteousness Jesus has put in me. My will has been bent by an unholy world and like the old song says, I am “prone to wander, Lord I feel it, prone to leave the God I love.” I need reminders to pull me back into the light so I can again see the depth of God’s grace and mercy and move closer to Him. This reminds me of an old urban legend. There was a man who said he felt
I try to feed the good dog.
like he had two dogs inside him. One was good and one was evil. When asked which dog would win, that man answered, “The one I feed the most.” I try to feed the “good dog” – I read God’s Word and other books that feed my spirit and nourish my soul and stimulate my brain to follow a righteous path. I listen to music that does the same. I associate with people who are on that
same track. It works. God has designed it that way. Man creates and searches for that which is good and pure and beautiful – and he will continue to do so because he needs it to feed his own soul. He must have it to remind Him of the One who created all that is good and pure and beautiful. The longing is part of our DNA. That’s why the Scripture tells us, “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). When we ponder “such things” we draw closer to God. When we are immersed in such things – when we are captivated by them – we catch a glimpse of who God is: true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and oh so worthy of our praise. And we are captivated by Him. All of us have that good and bad dog within us. Both dogs want to be fed. It’s up to us to choose which one will grow strong and which one will languish. Marcia Laycock’s latest book, ‘One Smooth Stone,’ is available at www.vinemarc. com or by calling 1-800-238-9376.
s Rhonda Rhea by Rhonda Rhea
T
here are times when we can get easily frustrated with other people. I always advise against trying to turn the argument around with “I’m rubber and you’re glue.” I might opt for “takes one to know one” – except that I would be insulting myself at the same time and that seems counterproductive. Using words as a weapon is always counterproductive. It also doesn’t take long to figure out that words don’t really bounce either. They can wound. And when we’re bent on wounding, we miss a big opportunity to grow in character and wisdom. Proverbs 18:2 says, “A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to show off his opinions.” Trading wisdom just to show off? Bad trade. Not only do we miss the opportunity for growing in understanding, but we miss
the opportunity to bless others – the blessing of blessing. Every time you use your words to bless someone else, it becomes a rubber blessing of grace that bounces right back around to stick to you. In Ephesians 4:29, Paul gives this reminder: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” The word “corrupting” is from a Greek word that was originally used for rotten, putrefied food. I’m at this very moment recovering
Using words as a weapon is always counterproductive.
from merely looking at a bag of spinach in my college daughter’s fridge yesterday. We were digging around for salad fixings and our conversation went something like this: Me: “Kaley, your spinach has brown juice sloshing around in the bottom of the bag.” Kaley: “Yeah, don’t eat that.” Do I even need to say that
I wasn’t the least bit tempted to put any of that in my mouth? How sad it is when we pay more attention to the salad we put in our mouth than the words we let out of it. We’re told in that Ephesians passage that we’re to choose a word that “fits the occasion”– words that are just right. That brings us back to the blessing of blessing. Paul not only tells us to stay away from the words that reek, but he gives us specific instructions for how our words should smell instead. When people get a whiff of our words, they should be taking in the sweet scent of grace. It’s not about what “says you.” It’s not about what says me either. It all comes back around to “says Him.” In Matthew 12:34, Jesus Himself said, “For the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.” I don’t want to overflow liquefied spinach, or bacon that might move. I want to allow Jesus to so fill my heart that my heart overflows grace words to all around. Not “Yo mama.” Not “Talk to the hand.” The scent of grace. Not “so’s your face.” Rhonda Rhea is a radio personality and conference speaker across North America. She is a wife, mother, and author of several fun and fruitful books. Find out more at www.RhondaRhea.org.
Where Love and Wrath Collide by Dr. Charles F. Stanley
W
hat do you see when you look at the cross? Is it merely an instrument of death? A piece of wood? An emblem of the Christian faith? If these things are all you see, then you’ve missed the most important message in all s Dr. Charles F. Stanley of Scripture. The blood of Jesus Christ is the central theme of the Word of God from beginning to end. Scripture says all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and we know that the wages of sin is death – but the gift of God is eternal life (Romans 3:23; 6:23). The Bible tells us that by saying we have not sinned, we make God a liar, and the truth is not in us (1 John 1:10). From His Word, we also know that we will give an account to God on the judgment day for all of our deeds (Romans 14:12). If you want to know how seriously God takes the issue of sin, look at the cross. We like to think of the cross as an awesome expression of God’s love – which it is. But we can’t really understand its meaning (or depth of God’s love) until we recognize something of His hatred toward sin. And the cross is where God’s love and wrath collide. We can’t really understand the meaning of God’s love until we understand what it cost Him to express that love toward us. The cross itself doesn’t save us; rather, it is the Person who died there and what happened to Him that make it possible for any of us to have hope. When Jesus Christ died on the cross, God directed His hatred for sin toward His Son. But the Messiah did not die out of coercion – Jesus’ death was voluntary. He laid
His life down as a ransom for others, saying, “No one takes [My life] from Me, but I lay it down of my own accord” (John 10:18). We find the most visible example of God’s wrath where we would least expect it – upon the shoulders of His only Son, who was absolutely sinless, who never did anything wrong. Jesus’ death wasn’t something the Romans did; they were simply participants in what God did. Here is how Peter explained it: “This Man, delivered by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death. God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power” (Acts 2:23-24). Why would God direct His intense hatred of sin toward His perfect, sinless Son? God, in the process of redeeming mankind, has an awesome plan to forgive us, wipe away the penalty of our sin, and give us eternal life. That’s what the cross is all about. When we receive Jesus Christ as our Saviour, a pardon takes place. We “are justified freely by His grace through
The story does not end with the cross. the redemption that came by Jesus Christ.” (Romans 3:24) God’s perfect justice demanded that a penalty be paid for sin. So either He could condemn every single one of us to be eternally separated from Him, or because of His love for us, He could direct His judgment toward someone else who could stand in our place. And since God requires a perfect sacrifice (Deuteronomy 17:1), only a person who had not sinned could atone for our transgressions. That’s why He sent His Son. Can you imagine bearing the sin of all mankind? There is no way for us to measure that kind of pain and
suffering. When we think about the cross, we tend to think about the spikes in Jesus’ hands and feet, the crown of thorns, the spear in His side. But the physical suffering Christ endured was minor compared to separation from His Father. He cried out, asking His Father if there was any way for “this cup to pass” from Him (Matthew 26:39). He knew that He came as the Lamb of God, that He came to die. He was not asking God to remove the crucifixion; rather, He was lamenting separation from His Father. He paid the sin-debt of the world in one awesome act upon His body, soul, and spirit until finally He said, “It is finished.” And commending His Spirit to the Father, He died (John 19:30; Luke 23:46). The most important events in human history are the birth of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion. Thankfully, the story does not end with the cross. Jesus rose again. In doing so, He conquered death. Through that awful act of extreme charity, God expressed His most divine love and, at the same time, His most intense wrath. Why? Because there was no way for Him to declare guilty sinners righteous unless somebody took our place and paid our penalty. Who has power over death? None other than almighty God Himself. Jesus, whose death was substitutionary, rose from the grave. He ascended to the Father and sits at His right hand as the coming King and Judge of all mankind. At the cross, God’s divine wrath collided with His infinite love and produced an offering of blood that washes guilty sinners clean. When you look at the cross, I hope you see more than a symbol of religion. For it is the greatest of all gifts – our passport into life beyond this earth and the promise of an eternal home in heaven. Dr. Charles F. Stanley is the founder of In Touch Ministries. For In Touch’s television and radio broadcast times visit intouchcanada.org. Article © 2014 courtesy In Touch Ministries.
6
Living Light News - March/April 2014
There’s An App For Chat
by Melanie F. Gibbs
“W Wee need to move beyo status upda nd blog posts tes, a Twitter feed nd s.”
“Random Excuses Generator.” Questions range from “What is the biggest lie you have ever told?” to “Do you like turtles?” and from “Do you do church?” to “How do you feel about tattoos?” A new version, which Kennedy anticipates will be released in midMarch, will be fully functional on both iPhone and iPad alike. Feedback from his youth group has been encouraging. One girl has used the app to strike up a conversation with some friends while on a flight. Others use it to start chats
with family and friends, whether in the car or at the dinner table. “Ultimately, in some small way I hope that teens will use this app to learn how to talk to each other again,” Kennedy says. “In a highly technologically driven world I think we have in some ways lost the art of conversation. “I would like to provide teens and those people who work with, live with or otherwise interact with teens a way to communicate better.” Find out more about Chet Kennedy and his apps at askmeanythingapps.com or chetkennedy.com.
photo by Noel Granado
A hobbyist developer from Edmonton is hoping to “restore the lost art of conversation – one app at a time.” Chet Kennedy once passed up the chance to invest in Apple Computer when it was only $15 a share (opting instead to put gas in his car). Today, he’s such a big fan of Apple technology that he even taught himself how to develop apps. But unlike popular apps like Candy Crush or Flappy Bird that keep people glued to their devices, Kennedy’s apps are designed to get people talking face to face. “I knew that I wanted to create apps,” the father of three explains. “I came up with tons of ideas and started learning the programming language.” He got his chance when Apple released iPhone SDK, a software development kit that allowed third party developers to build apps for iOS devices. After an initial process of mastering the basics – which Kennedy describes as “both fun and frustrating” – Kennedy hit upon a fantastic idea. The concept came at a marriage retreat that he and his wife, Dee, were attending. Why not build a simple, user-friendly conversation starter app for couples?
Called Ask Me Anything for actually seeing Couples, his first app was released people face to in December 2010. face, eyeball to Kennedy, a youth pastor eyeball.” at Beulah Alliance Church, Available for noticed that his students were download via downloading the Couples app the iTunes App and decided to create a version for Store, the free version of Ask Me teens. Anything for Teens includes over It turned out to be his 200 questions. The paid, most successful ad-free version includes app. In its first over 650 questions year, the teen and 200 pieces of app was random advice, downloaded plus fun bonus 20,000 content: the times and is “Decisionator” being used and the in about 80 countries. Since then, he has followed up with Ask Me Anything apps for Adults, Engaged Couples, Families and Job Interviews. The long-time youth worker says he sees a great deal of “fear and anxiety amongst my students” and notes the need for this application for teenagers as a way to change the course of a broken and tragic world. “We need to move beyond status updates, blog posts and Twitter feeds,” he says. “Ultimately, we need to move from carrying on a Chet Kennedy is getting teens talking with textual relationship and the app Ask Me Anything for Teens. move into the realm of
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If you think the Easter message is the same year after year, you may just need a fresh perspective. Millwoods Assembly presents their 28th musical production Beyond Wonder, a 90-minute presentation of Jesus in His final days. “It’s a similar story line each year, but told differently,” explains Bernie Stein, music pastor and the show’s producer. Preparation, teamwork, and passion help create a spectacular production that attracts over 5,000 people over four days. Stein collects story ideas and music throughout the year that eventually become a part of the show. The final project is revealed just six weeks before performances. “I get the script ... generally a month before,” explains Dennis Taekema, a local actor who portrays Jesus. For six weeks, groups practice separately. “The miracle behind the whole thing is we only ever have three dress rehearsals, and then it’s go time. I’ve never seen a show in my life come together in four days like this one does,” Taekema adds. And this involves coordinating cast, crew, choir and orchestra – approximately 250 people – and the odd animal or two. Even after four years, Taekema admits playing Jesus is tough.
“The core story always stays the same. It’s about grace, redemption and love. [But] the biggest challenge is to [portray] a historical figure that everyone seems to know.” So Taekema connects in a unique way – by mentally concentrating on two unspoken lines that reflect the character of Jesus as he acts. “I think ...‘I forgive you. I love you.’ It changes all the body language – it changes everything.” Katie Nguyen bounces between two characters: her main role Mary Magdalene, a follower of Jesus who first saw the empty tomb, and the woman caught in adultery that Jesus forgave. Prior to her first performance, she attended a conference that prepared her for the role. “The three messages shared were that God sees me and knows me, that He’s not going to leave me, and that He trusts me. I realized that’s something women really need to know – that we have value, that we’re not alone, and we have an important part to play.” These are the same lessons portrayed in her character’s spiritual growth throughout the play. Through music and drama, Stein hopes to touch people’s hearts so they can reflect upon the Easter message more fully. “A lot of people kind of have an understanding of what Christmas is, but a lot of people ... do not have a deeper or clearer
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
SeniorScene by Carolyn Tomlin Who says retirement means having nothing to do? Thanks to better nutrition and advances in medicine, senior adults are living longer and maintaining better health in their golden years. Check your church calendar, the local newspaper and senior centres for activities open to the older generation in your community. And yes, even if you’re homebound and unable to participate in projects you enjoyed years ago, you can connect with the world through email and the Internet. It’s all about attitude and resourcefulness!
Benefits of LowImpact Exercise
Fun
Finding
exercise will benefit seniors by keeping the cardiovascular system strong as well as protecting the bones and joints. With age, conditions such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis may prevent exercise that was part of your lifestyle in the past. Look for workouts that elevate the heart rate while preventing injury to joints. For example, instead of running, a high-impact exercise, seniors are better off with walking, a low-impact exercise. According to a recent report on aging, more than one-third of people age 65 and older fall annually. Maintaining good balance and flexibility may prevent some of these falls. For more information, visit
It’s been said, “A body in motion, stays in motion.” Low-impact
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TheBalanceManual.com. Always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
Stay Connected
school or childcare centre and read books a couple of times each week. You’ll find people who need and appreciate your services and you will be a lot happier.
Remember when families lived in small Sharing A Meal With Friends communities, or even in the same town? If you want company, why not plan a potluck Today’s modern families may live miles apart. or have a covered-dish dinner? Include Perhaps you don’t see or visit with relatives healthy, nutritious foods. If you have space in and friends as often as you would like. your home, invite a small group of friends. Thanks to modern Many communities have technology, you can senior centres where you can If you want stay in touch by email. reserve a space for free – or It’s quick, simple and for a small amount. is a cost-free way to Include those who why not plan a connect with others. live alone and need Many community companionship. centres offer Recipes are made for introductory classes on sharing – why not bring extra how to use email. YouTube is a great resource copies or email them to those in attendance? for tutorials on specific computer skills. However, there is nothing that takes the Teach Someone a Skill place of a friendly letter. Enjoy corresponding What skill do you know that you could teach by honing your writing skills! others? For example, do you have a passion for writing? There are people who have always wanted to write and get published but Wanted: Volunteers do not know the process of getting started. Have you ever seen this sign? Or, can you play a musical instrument? Ask Many organizations need your friends to advertise by word-of-mouth that help. Make a list of hobbies or you would like to start a piano or guitar class areas of interest. one hour per week in your home. Do you enjoy gardening? Think of the new friends you will make! Volunteer to clean off a flower Think of how this giving of yourself will bless bed at a public site. others, not to mention yourself. What about delivering meals Don’t allow yourself to fall into the routine to homebound individuals? Call of endless hours in front of the TV. Live life ahead and bring a home-cooked meal to a to the fullest, and look for fun in all the right shut-in. (Check for food allergies, first.) places. Do you enjoy reading to children? Call a
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Why Is Our Olympian A Hero For Not Competing? photo courtesy Canadian National Speed Skating Team
Who would pass up the chance to compete in the Olympics? With 88 participating countries and a budget of more than $50 billion (the most expensive Olympics in history), the 2014 Sochi Olympics was the ultimate grand stage in sports that featured 2,873 of the world’s greatest athletes. For many athletes like Gilmore Junio, competing in this worldwide sporting event, occuring once every four years, is their defining moment. No wonder people were surprised when Junio gave up his spot to participate in this elite competition. The long track speed skater made headlines when he stepped aside to let teammate Denny Morrison take his place and represent Canada in the 1,000 metre competition. Morrison, a two-time World champion and considered Canada’s leading competitor in long track, missed his chance to compete in the 1,000 metre after he clipped his skates and fell in the last 50 metres at the Canadian trials. This would have been Junio’s first shot at the Olympics, but the Calgary athlete said he made his decision because “it’s in the best interest of the
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team.” He added, “To represent Canada at the Olympics is a huge honour and privilege, but I believe that as Canadians, we’re not just here to compete, we are here to win.” Morrison called it “an amazing gesture” adding, “I’m ready to make the most of this opportunity.” And he certainly did. Canadians know the happy ending: Morrison returned triumphant from Sochi in February after clinching a silver in the 1,000 metre event. If you think giving up a spot in the Olympics is an amazing gesture, how much more incredible is it for the Creator of the universe to give up His spot for you? Well, that’s exactly what He did. The Bible says Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, gave up His rightful place to come to earth so you could be redeemed and restored to a right relationship with God. The Bible says everyone has sinned against Almighty God, and sin separates us from God and disqualifies us from a place in Heaven. No one’s good works will earn them a spot in Heaven, just as Morrison’s previous victories couldn’t guarantee him a berth at the Olympics. It
is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9). But just like Morrison, we have been offered redemption from our failures through Jesus Christ. Titus 2:14 says Jesus gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify us for Himself. When Jesus died on the cross and rose on the third day, He overcame the power of sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:56-57), offering eternal life to anyone who puts their trust in Him. He holds the victory, and you can have the victory over sin and death through Him. Incredibly, His great sacrifice created a spot for you on His Heavenly team. But just like Morrison had to accept the opportunity from Junio, you need to accept what God has offered you through Jesus Christ. Are you ready to claim your spot? Pray the following prayer from your heart: Dear Lord Jesus, I’m sorry for all of the things that I’ve done, the ways I’ve messed up and sinned against You. Thank you for giving up Your life for me. Please give me a second chance. I surrender my life to You. Please come into my life and help me to live for You from this moment on. In Your name, Amen.
10
Living Light News - March/April 2014
Wellness
How
Sweetit is! by Beth Bence Reinke, MS, RD
If you crave sweets, join the crowd. According to a government survey, the average Canadian ingests 26 teaspoons of sugar daily. That’s over 400 calories a day from sugar! Many people also consume artificially sweetened foods and beverages. With so many sweeteners available, it’s hard to know all the facts. Let’s look at the two main types: nutritive and non-nutritive.
NUTRITIVE SWEETENERS Nutritive sweeteners contain calories but usually have negligible amounts of other nutrients;
they’re considered “empty calories.” They’re used to sweeten all kinds of foods and beverages. Table sugar, or “sucrose,” comes from sugar cane and sugar beets. Table sugar contains equal amounts of glucose and fructose. Powdered sugar is crushed table sugar mixed with cornstarch. Molasses is a by-product of table sugar production. Blackstrap molasses contains small amounts of iron and calcium. Brown sugar is made by adding molasses to table sugar to give a more robust flavor. High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is created by chemically converting some of the glucose in cornstarch to fructose, making the final product sweeter than regular sugar. HFCS is used to sweeten many foods and beverages. Corn syrup is a concentrated liquid sweetener made from corn. It’s not the same as HFCS. Honey is made of glucose, fructose and water with a few trace minerals and vitamins. It is also a source of antioxidants. Honey can contain botulism spores, so it should never be fed to infants less than one year old. Real maple syrup is made by boiling down sap of maple trees. Most pancake syrups are
imitation maple syrup consisting of corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup and flavourings. Agave nectar is made from the juice of the agave plant and is a little sweeter than sugar. Polyols have names that end in “-ol,” such as erythritol, mannitol, sorbitol and xylitol. They’re called sugar alcohols, but are neither alcohol nor sugar. Polyols are partially absorbed by the body and have fewer calories than sugar. Excessive intake may cause gas, bloating and diarrhea. Often used in gum and candies, polyols are the only nutritive sweeteners that do not cause tooth decay.
NON-NUTRITIVE SWEETENERS
Non-nutritive sweeteners contain few or no calories, so they are also called low-calorie sweeteners and are often found in “diet” foods. Before gaining approval, sweeteners must go through extensive testing for safety and effectiveness. The following non-nutritive sweeteners are approved for use in Canada: Aspartame is a very low-calorie sweetener made of two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid. People with phenylketonuria, a rare metabolic disorder detected at birth, should avoid aspartame. Aspartame is 180 times
sweeter than sugar. Brand names for aspartame include NutraSweet® and Equal®. Acesulfame potassium isn’t sold as a tabletop sweetener in Canada, but is used in some food products. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar, but provides no calories. Cyclamate cannot be used as a food additive in Canada, but is in the tabletop sweeteners Sweet ‘N Low®, Sugar Twin® and Sucaryl®. Cyclamate is about 30 times as sweet as sugar. Stevia is made from leaves of a plant native to South America, and the purified extract is approved as both a food additive and tabletop sweetener. Stevia is a natural no-calorie sweetener and is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar. Sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sugar, is heat-stable for cooking, and calorie-free. Splenda® is a common brand name of sucralose. Diabetics may prefer non-nutritive sweeteners, which don’t cause blood sugar fluctuations. Others favour the taste of nutritive sweeteners despite the extra calories. The bottom line? Whatever sweets you choose, use them sparingly as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Beth Bence Reinke, MS, RD, is a registered dietitian who writes about food, health and nutrition. She is the author of ‘Fruit Lovers’ Devotions To Go’ and several children’s books. Visit her website at www.bethbencereinke.com.
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Lifestyles
ruth is Tbetter than fiction by Belinda Elliott
understand, writing was a calling for me, and I followed it religiously.” Dekker invited Jesus Christ into his life when he was nine years old, and says growing in his faith has been a lifelong process – one that he routinely examines through his books. “When I sit down to write a novel, I am exploring my own relationship with God, with the struggle between good and evil, my own purpose,” Dekker said in an interview with The 700 Club. “My journey is so similar to everyone
overtly Christian, often “boil down to God’s pursuit of man, and man’s pursuit of God.” “I put characters in very difficult situations where they are confronted with the difficult questions I have,” he tells Living Light News. One of those questions is about true identity, which the prolific author explores in his 2013 novel, Outlaw. Set in a primitive jungle that echoes Dekker’s birthplace, the story recounts the epic adventure of Julian Carter and her two-year old son. Separated from her son and captured by a savage tribe, Julian has to look beyond being a slave to find her real identity. Dekker says his own struggles with identity have taught him that his truest self is not a husband, a father, or even a writer — these are just roles God has blessed him with for a short time. “When we put our identity in cars, money, jobs ... we can get distracted by them and forget who we are,” he says. “When we forget who we are, we suffer.” Dekker says he saw this early in his career. With every success, the expectations increased. Landing a spot on a bestsellers list only meant more pressure to rank higher with his next novel. “The more successful I became, the more I realized how empty success really was,” Dekker
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Ted Dekker might be a New York Times bestselling author, but he insists that’s not what defines him. The 51-year-old “master of suspense” specializes in crafting fast-paced novels with gripping plot twists. Dekker has published over 30 novels — mostly thrillers similar to those of Dean Koontz and Stephen King — and sold over nine million copies worldwide. Two of his books, Thr3e and House, were adapted into film. Born in a remote Indonesian village where his parents — a Dutch Canadian father and an American mother — served as missionaries, Dekker had an incredible upbringing. “I grew up in one of the darkest places in the world you can imagine, [in] the jungle with cannibals,” he tells CNN. “Co-workers of my parents were killed and eaten. By cannibals,” he adds. “You were at threat of losing your life at any moment.” For safety reasons, Dekker, along with other missionaries’ children, was enrolled in a multicultural boarding school on the coast. He relied on his It took years for prolific imagination to create a world fiction writer Ted Dekker to where he felt he belonged. After high school, Dekker learn the truth about success. took up permanent residence in the US and graduated from Evangel College with a degree says. “Success is not going to bring lasting peace in philosophy and religion. He or satisfaction on any level.” promptly entered the corporate Inviting Jesus Christ into a person’s life and world — eventually owning totally surrendering to Him will. “You find Ted Dekker several successful businesses. yourself in a position where you are no longer a However, his entrepreneurial slave to the world, but you find yourself loving pursuits left him feeling empty. the world madly and being Christ to all you see else’s journey, because we are all human. We all A whole new chapter in his life began in the and loving your neighbour as yourself.” have been defeated by the powers of darkness, early ’90s. A friend of his had just become a The way he measures success now is by and we all find redemption in the light of Christ.” first-time author. It awakened Dekker’s long-held obediently sharing the stories he feels God Dekker shared with FocusOnFiction how dream of becoming a writer. At first the husband wants him to tell. he became an author to “reveal the character and dad wrote in the evenings after work, and “The one story that’s most exciting to us and to of God.” then in 1997 he took the plunge. Him is that story when He defeats evil,” Dekker “I was in a time of worship and felt God “I wrote for three years, full time, living off our told The 700 Club. “The greatest hero that exists impress on me His desire that I write a savings before I was published,” Dekker told today without a doubt is Jesus Christ.” particular story that filled my mind. I’ve been FocusOnFiction.net. “We sold the Suburban. learning to do that ever since.” We sold my motorcycles. We sold anything To download a free copy of his latest book ‘Water we thought we could live without. You have to Walker,’ visit www.teddekker.com. He says his adrenaline-laced plots, while not
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Getaways
! e i m T Kiwi by Sarah Chestnutt
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in March, featuring arguably the world’s weirdest selection of cuisine, including seagull eggs and titi (muttonbird). While in the city, check out art and culture drawing from the indigenous Maori history and try an abundance of fresh produce and seafood to tickle the taste buds. Kiwis, the people that is, have a reputation for being warm and friendly. It’s easy to find welcoming guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and farms offering the opportunity to get to know New Zealanders on a personal level. If that’s not your style, check into one of the many hotels, but consider your options — it’s kiwi time after all! Want to blend in with the locals? Keep in mind that rugby’s a way of life here. New Zealanders are passionate about the sport and avidly support the national team, the All Blacks. The team may not be playing right now, but you can still catch a game or two of the Super Rugby Season. Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans can immerse themselves in Middle-earth on the Island. You’ll be able to picture Lothlorien when you travel to Queenstown, imagine the ents in Fangorn Forest at Fiordland National Park, or listen for the riders of Rohan outside Canterbury. A trip to New Zealand isn’t a quick weekend away, but it’s an experience your whole family will remember for a lifetime. Is it kiwi time for you?
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You could throw a dart on a map to decide where in the world to explore. Or, see what life’s like across the globe and visit the country that’s the first to greet each new day. Travel to the land of vast mountain chains, lush rainforests, grassy plains, and sweeping beaches — and the occasional hobbit. New Zealand’s South Island is waiting to welcome you with open arms. South east of Australia, the long flight with multiple connections may seem daunting, especially with kids. It’s totally worth it though — the vacation that awaits will be one your family will be talking about for years to come. A third of the country is protected in reserves — whether you’re in the cities or out in the countryside, you’ll find yourself in breathtaking surroundings. There are no dangerous wild animals in New Zealand, so it’s simple to park your car at the side of the road and explore, leaving crowds behind. Keep an eye out for wildlife that call New Zealand home. Try to spot a kea, an alpine parrot, or the large takane, an endangered, flightless bird. When you’re near the water, look amongst the giant sperm whales seen year-round for the Hector’s dolphin — the world’s smallest marine dolphin unique to the country.
And, of course, keep the camera ready for kiwis! These rare, flightless birds are New Zealand’s national symbol. For your best opportunity to catch a glimpse of one, hop a ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island. It’s one of the only places you can readily see kiwis. Once you’ve seen what the land has to offer, head to the water. Snorkelling and scuba diving offer sights that will leave you breathless. No matter where you go along the coast you’ll find companies that can help you go under the sea. Queenstown has all you could hope for when it comes to adventure tourism. You’ll find tandem parachuting and paragliding, whitewater rafting on Shotover River, and four-wheel drive expeditions. Give zorbing a shot — invented in New Zealand, it’s a surreal ride from hilltop to valley bottom inside a giant plastic ball. Dunedin is memorable for historical architecture and proximity to wildlife you won’t see anywhere else. The Dunedin Heritage Festival, mid-April, celebrates the city’s architectural heritage and allows you to see buildings normally off-limits to public. Close to Dunedin, the world’s rarest penguin — the yellow-eyed penguin — can be seen from trenches only inches away from its natural habitat. Stop in Christchurch for the Ellerslie Flower Show for five days in March and the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, also
Living Light News - March/April 2014
Going Places
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Sights&Sounds
Singer
Soft-hearted by Teresa Lockhart
love again. In 2011, he met Leyicet Peralta who shares his passion to help families in need. When they got married in January 2012, they asked guests to make a
is going to stem from a root. If we want to truly make a change, we have to be connected to the Source of change,” Gokey says, adding that apart from Jesus he can do nothing. “If we are rooted and grounded in the One who brings change, we will bring a branch that brings good to others.”
aximum
urtesy M
photo co ent
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Artist M
American Idol finalist Danny Gokey understands what it feels like to be broken. Just four weeks before he tried out for the 2008 season, his wife Sophia died of complications from heart surgery. Gokey could have given up after her death, but instead he pushed forward. After all, it was Sophia who encouraged him to audition. She would have wanted him to follow his dreams. Not only did the Wisconsin native receive the golden ticket to Hollywood, but he finished in the top three, scored a record deal, and sang before packed arenas all over the U.S. Now Gokey realizes God has always had a plan for him. Before all of it happened – his wife dying and him trying out for American Idol – he felt God telling him he would write a book. At first he didn’t understand why. Now he knows. “All during this time, I think it was the idea of this book that kept me going,” Gokey shares. “It really was like God had put hope in front of me.” God’s work in Gokey’s life inspired him to be an encourager to others, pointing them to the love and security found in Jesus Christ. This is the message he hopes to convey through his 2013 inspirational memoir and his recently released single, both titled Hope In Front Of Me. The album echoes the hopeful message in his 2010 debut release My Best Days, a mixture of country, gospel and rock, which debuted at number four on the Billboard chart. He’s working on a sophomore album due out later this spring. The 33-year-old former worship leader who grew up singing in church learned that many people have misconceptions about God. Often they don’t realize how God longs to have a relationship with them, and that they can turn to Him for help when life gets hard. “When I reached Hollywood, I found out that when I talked about God, people didn’t understand what I was saying,” Gokey says. “I had to find a way to adapt the message – not change it – so that people could understand.” Gokey’s inspirational journey is helping bridge that gap. “When God told me I was going to write a book, I didn’t know I was going to walk through a loss,” Gokey says.
Sophia’s death hit Gokey hard. “Life stopped for me,” he says. In his grief, Gokey quit his job and moved in with Sophia’s parents. Darkness and depression threatened to consume him, and he had a very difficult time finding hope. However, as the book title suggests, hope was waiting for him from the beginning. Upon receiving an unexpected insurance cheque shortly after Sophia’s death, Gokey used it – not on himself – but to help hurting people. He established a non-profit organization called Sophia’s Heart in 2008. “Helping people in my brokenness helped to bring healing to me,” he tells DoSomething.org. In 2011, the organization’s 77,000 sq ft facility in Nashville, Tenn. has housed approximately 40 homeless families. The organization plans to open an emergency wing next year for families that need temporary shelter. Youth can also take part in their after-school music and arts program. “I want this organization to not only feed them, house them, and put them in beautiful rooms,” Gokey says. “But more importantly, I also want to educate them, to help connect them to their destiny while they are in their brokenness. That’s the vision.” Sophia’s Heart was birthed when Gokey trusted God in his darkest moments. He realized this breakthrough wouldn’t have happened with a hardened heart. Focusing on God allowed him to keep his heart tender. “A hard heart doesn’t feel,” Gokey says. “I’ve always wanted to feel God’s direction. I’ve always wanted to have a soft and pliable heart. “The condition of your heart decides the condition of your life,” he explains. “If you have a pure heart, you’re going to see life from a different angle. It’s going to be very enjoyable. “If you have a hard heart that’s full of negative emotions, then your heart becomes the lens your eyes see through, and your life becomes very difficult to live. It’s as if your heart has become poisoned.” It’s a truth he’s gleaned from the Bible: “Above all else, guard your heart for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). Having a tender heart also helped Gokey to find
Tender perspective takes Idol finalist on joyful journey with God
donation to Sophia’s Heart in lieu of wedding gifts. The couple’s best gift came a year later – their one-year-old son Daniel Emanuel. The first time dad enjoys spending quality time with his family and running the foundation. Gokey feels extremely blessed to start a new chapter in his life, and to be able to do what he’s doing. But he acknowledges none of this is possible without God’s help. “Everything we do
Danny Gokey
Living Light News - March/April 2014 KUTLESS Glory kutless.com Review by Josh McConnell Twelve years ago, Kutless attracted a huge following of North American youth with their heavy-hitting, aggressive rock sound. However, the Portland band has been experimenting with new styles. Their latest playground, particularly in the past couple of releases, is worship music. Glory, Kutless’ eighth studio record, takes on this genre head-on. Most of the band members are worship leaders, so this is familiar territory for them. The end result is an album filled with worshipful tunes coupled with easy-to-learn lyrics. Though the band consistently had strong worship elements in their lyrics, this album is a huge departure from the sound Kutless fans have come to expect. The album features radio-friendly tracks, like the first radio release “You Alone,” with catchy melodies and lyrics filled with Biblical truths. However, Kutless’ foray into the worship genre doesn’t quite have the same impact as their signature powerful rock anthems. There are very small doses of the old Kutless, however. Songs such as “We Lift You Up” do feel a little more familiar. Though contemporary worship music fans will most likely pick it up, Kutless fans may want to listen to previews first. CITY HARBOR City Harbor cityharbormusic.com Review by Lindsay Williams The self-titled debut from acoustic-pop duo City Harbor infuses modern melodies with heartfelt lyrics to produce an album worthy of radio play. This isn’t a typical duo. City Harbor is less like The Civil Wars and more like a popcentric Lady Antebellum. Listeners might be tempted to pass the lyrics off as hovering near surface-level. However, upon further reflection, listeners will find the lyrics thoughtful, deep and relevant. With a band name that reminds us that God is our refuge, this collection of songs speaks to trusting Him and sharing the story of Christ’s redemptive work in our lives with others. Songs like “Come However You Are” and “Somebody Tell Them” invite all into the Gospel story. Meanwhile, pop-imbued “Like I Am” and Americana-influenced “Lift It Up” produce momentum that keeps the album fresh. The insatiable hook on “Heartbeat” is pure perfection and makes this track radio-friendly. “Your Love Still Wins” is another clear stand-out with a building, triumphant chorus that declares, “This world will put up a fight, but You’ve conquered it/ Whatever comes in my life, Your love still wins.” With an upbeat acoustic-pop sound that’s not overly produced, intertwining harmonies and plenty of intuitive lyrics, City Harbor can easily become a new artist success story. JAKE HAMILTON & THE SOUND Beautiful Rider jakehamiltonmusic.com Review by Matt Conner If Jake Hamilton sounds familiar, it’s likely because he was a worship leader with Jesus Culture. Now on his own with a backing band called The Sound, Hamilton recently
JukeBox released Beautiful Rider, a rock-oriented worship release that will appeal to fans of Jeremy Camp or Sanctus Real. Musically speaking, Jake Hamilton and The Sound is definitely a rock band. Opening track “Behold God is Great” hearkens back to the rock energy and vibe of the early ’90s. “I Love Your Presence” goes back even further with a classic rock structure. Things settle down on the piano-driven title track and “The Father’s Song,” the latter of which builds nicely before fading once again into a peaceful refrain. Then just like that, the growl and stomp of “Never Let Me Down” comes to usher in a new energy. Hamilton maintains a nice mix throughout and the album is always interesting. While many of the songs become a bit repetitive, there’s no denying the energy and heart present on Beautiful Rider. Hamilton loves his Creator and loves rock music and he marries the two fairly well on his latest release.
JASON GRAY Love Will Have The Final Word jasongraymusic.com Review by Matt Conner After years as an independent artist, Jason Gray has broken through to much larger audiences with his ability to blend vulnerability and truth in a memorable refrain. Hit singles like “Remind Me Who I Am” and “Good To Be Alive” became Top 5 hits because of those qualities, and Gray’s latest album, Love Will Have The Final Word, is replete with the same appealing mix. Whether Gray is singing about the love of God, the healing properties of love, or our calling to love each other, there’s no mistaking Gray’s focus in this 11-song set. Gray paints portraits of fear and failure, loss and loneliness, but love breaks through in each track to provide an answer or salve. “Begin Again” and “Love’s Not Done With You” are tracks that offer hope to the broken listener, while “Not Right Now” gives perspective from the midst of trials. No matter the perspective, the hope of God’s love can be found in each. Gray’s best attempt at a thesis is found in the title track, that features the line, “Of all the things I’ve ever heard/Let me remember when it hurts/That love will have the final word.” It’s a torch carried from beginning to end, shining a likely much-needed light to Gray’s growing audience. JOHN MARK MCMILLAN Borderland johnmarkmcmillan.com Review by Matt Conner John Mark McMillan has earned the wrong reputation. It’s inaccurate to classify the songwriter as a popular worship artist in the vein of Chris Tomlin, Kari Jobe or other notable names. While he did pen the popular “How He Loves,” McMillan’s imagination and craftsmanship moves him beyond typical worship fare into more substantive waters than you might realize. McMillan’s latest album, Borderland, is the perfect example. “Holy Ghost” sets the tone for the road ahead, a gospel-saturated call for hope as McMillan admits, “I need a Holy Ghost.” It’s worshipful perhaps, but not in any marketplace-oriented fashion. The same can be said of the music here – jangly guitars
19 wrapped in string arrangements, synth tones and even horns. This is not church music. It’s just music. It’s also beautiful. The darker movement of “Monsters Talk,” the opening strings of “Holy Ghost,” the passionate refrain of “Future/Past” are all in close orbit around McMillan’s previous releases. Longtime fans will savour the results. Listeners expecting another set of praise and worship choruses, on the other hand, will have a learning curve ahead of them. If they’re up for the journey, they’ll be richly rewarded for their efforts. CARROLLTON Breathe In Deep carolltonband.com Review by Lindsay Williams Named after the meeting point between the band members’ respective hometowns, new pop-rock outfit Carrollton offers a debut filled with solid tracks directing listeners to the author and perfecter of their faith. Front man Justin Mosteller’s vocals recall Chris Daughtry, with a collection that’s equally worshipful and sonically tight. Breathe In Deep begins with the upbeat “Pass You By,” the opening lines mirroring the motion of the bicycle wheels spinning on the EP’s cover art. The first introduction to the band encourages listeners to not miss the beauty found in everyday life. “Holding Me” is about a hurting young woman pleading with the same God who walks on water and performs miracles to intercede in her own life. “Red” highlights the band’s lyrical prowess. “Death Has Lost Its Way” demonstrates the bands’ skills in writing poignant tracks that connect with the heart. Three “Front Porch Sessions” on the back-end provide some acoustic-flavoured, singable cuts as well, giving fans nine full tracks on the EP. Just like its name, Carrollton has the opportunity to provide a meeting place for listeners. Breathe in Deep showcases the band’s musical breadth and their ability to seamlessly oscillate between emotive, reverent ballads and high-energy pop-rock, offering something pleasing for a range of musical tastes. THE ROYAL ROYAL The Return Of The King theroyalroyal.com Review by Lindsay Williams Canadian brothers Gabe and Nathan Finochio, known as experimental pop duo The Royal Royal, first began leading worship at Crossroads Church in Ontario, where their father pastored. With the encouragement of Hillsong United’s Matt Crocker, the Finochios decided to record some of their original music, which led to the release of two EPs and the duo’s fulllength debut, The Royalty, in 2012. Their follow-up, The Return Of The King, boasts the same innovative pop that made their debut stand out. In the vein of Hillsong United and The City Harmonic, the songs on The Royal Royal’s sophomore effort reverberate with creative sonic nuances that chart new territory and stretch the boundaries of modern worship. The lyrics are simple but the melodies intricate. This beautiful contradiction results in an authentic and novel collection of songs. Tracks like “A Real Strength,” “Holding On,” and “Shine” showcase the raw simplicity of their lyrics, while other cuts, like the rhythmic “Light A Fire” and breezy throw-back “Great” grab listeners with surprising musical turns. “Every Little Bit of Praise” stands as the best cut on the album, with strong, full vocals declaring that all praise belongs to God alone. With The Return Of The King, The Royal Royal is helping to shape the future of modern worship.
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Cover to Cover THE MENDED HEART
Ever feel like there should be more to life? Jennie Allen wrote Restless for those of us who feel those stirrings, but don’t know where to use our passions and talents. Using the life of Joseph, she explains the importance of big dreams and living a life pursuing God. The mother of four describes the process of laying out several types of threads: gifts, suffering, places, people, and passions. Each chapter contains journaling space for readers to examine their own particular threads. Then, Jennie illustrates how to tie those threads together and untangle all the loose ones to define our God-given calling. Jennie tested a prototype of the system outlined in the book with the help of friends. After much success, she wrote Restless for the rest of us to follow with the same principles they used. Restless is an opportunity to evaluate our relationship with Jesus Christ and to create a life filled with meaning and purpose in light of eternity. No matter where we are in life, we can find the unique ways we’re wired to bring Him glory. She urges, “Don’t waste your days any longer, staring at ceilings, wondering if there is more. There is more. Take the threads of your life and go live like it.”
International speaker and author Suzanne Eller’s life motto is to “lead women in a new direction in family, feelings, and faith.” Eller realized how the issue of brokenness has impacted so many lives packaged in different ways. And many times, in an attempt to fix brokenness, people unintentionally make it worse. But as she writes in her new book The Mended Heart, “Brokenness does not have to be the end of any of our tales.” Once a hurting and angry teenager before she was transformed completely by God’s love, Eller wants readers to know that God longs to bring healing in people’s lives. She shares how people can become whole and free from their pains and hurts through Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit. The core theme of the book – “What Jesus Has Already Done For You” – reminds readers of the reasons why Jesus came. Suzie unfolds important questions and answers based on real-life anecdotal examples and Biblical promises that show how God can heal our heart, soul, mind and body. When lives are surrendered to Him, God can fix broken places and renew perspectives. While it’s written primarily for women, The Mended Heart is a book for anyone who longs to be delivered from brokenness to lasting healing.
Reviewed by Lynetta Smith
Reviewed by Wayne Hagerman
by Jennie Allen
by Suzanne Eller
Peter Goldring
THE SURPRISING SECRETS OF HIGHLY HAPPY MARRIAGES Do you wish your relationship with your spouse involved more love and happiness and less confusion and friction? If you are among the many couples who have settled for a “sometimes happy” or mediocre relationship, this book will show you how you can have a “highly happy” marriage. Rather than focusing on the problems people have in marriage, Shaunti Feldhahn focuses on what highly happy couples are doing right and have in common. Feldhahn, an author, speaker and social researcher, interviewed over one thousand couples from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of marital satisfaction. She discovered that the things that make the biggest difference are small habits that may be easy to overlook, but are immensely powerful and easy to do once you know about them. Feldhahn compares results from three groups of couples - highly happy, somewhat happy and struggling. Her findings are interesting and provide 12 easily doable practices that can make every marriage better. She provides practical advice and hope for those who want more ‘happy’ in their marriage. Reading and implementing even a few of these practices could be life changing. Even happy couples will find this book interesting, encouraging – even surprising!
A celebrity autobiography can provide a “backstage pass” to secrets, sorrows and delights. This Is Your Captain Speaking by Gavin MacLeod is a treat for anyone who lived in the spectacular 1970s era as television shaped a new culture. With Macleod now in his early 80s, this is a book Boomers and Zoomers will enjoy the most. Early in his career, MacLeod made a living by performing in live theatre. Thanks to a mostly empty wallet, the struggling actor ate Jell-O once a day – although he admits he never met a hotdog he didn’t thoroughly enjoy. This would all change in 1970 after MacLeod got his big break on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. He played a character named Murray, a writer, husband and great friend. When the show ended in the spring of 1977, he landed the role of Captain Merrill Stubing on The Love Boat, a cruise ship that set sail every Saturday night for nine years. A celebrity in his own right, MacLeod nevertheless speaks of the many stars he met with awestruck wonder. He shares candidly about the ups and downs of his personal life and the Christian faith that anchors his soul. MacLeod’s zest for life and upbeat, humorous style make this book an enjoyable read. It will touch your heart and make you smile. The Captain just has that way about him!
Reviewed by Cynthia Dobroskay
Reviewed by Miriam Leslie
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
EventsCalendar Special Events Cornerstone Counselling Fundraising Breakfast Mar. 13, 7:15 -8:30 a.m., Sutton Place Hotel, 10235-101 St., Edm. Cost: by donation. For more info, visit cornerstonecounselling.com/ hearts-of-compassion-2014. Love for Life Marriage Enrichment Mar. 15, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., North Pointe Comm. Church, 14025167 Ave., Edm. Cost: $45/ couple (incl. coffee, snacks, lunch and a book). To register, email Pastor Michael Voll at mvoll@ northpointechurch.ca, or call 780-452-5566. Awaken – Praise, Worship, Prayer Mar. 22, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., House of Prayer, 10445-172 St., Edm. No charge: free-will offering will be taken. For more info, visit hopedmonton.ca.
Brian Doerksen and Watoto Mar. 29, silent auction and snack bar – 5 p.m., concert – 7 p.m., Christcity Church, 14788-156 St., Edm. Featuring: Brian Doerksen and band, Watoto Children’s Choir and live painter Lewis Lavoie. Tickets: $15-$30. For tickets, visit embracecharity.ca or email tickets@embracecharity.ca. Prayer Breakfast Apr. 9, 7 a.m., Shaw Conference Centre, 9797 Jasper Ave. NW, Edm. The 19th Annual Edmonton Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast allows churches, ministries and business people to pray for the city’s mayor and civic leadership. For more info, visit mayorsprayerbreakfast.ca.
Regular Events Art Small Group Thursday evenings, 7-9 p.m., Edm. New Technology Soc., 11234109 Ave., Edm. Make art, new
friends, and learn how faith and art connect. Visit Edm. Chinese Baptist Church (ecbchurch.org)
E.S.L. Classes Saturdays, 9:30 – 11:15 a.m., Northgate Baptist Church, 13208-95 St., Edm. Speaking, reading and writing skills with friendly teachers. No charge. For more info, visit northgatebaptist. ca, or call 780-476-5855. Men’s Breakfast Mar. 22, 8-10 a.m., Northgate Baptist Church, 13208-95 St., Edm. Come build relationships and join the guys at Northgate for a continental breakfast. For more info, visit northgatebaptist. ca, or call 780-476-5855.
Music & Drama Ernie Haase & Signature Sound Mar. 28, 7 p.m., Sherwood Park Alliance Church, 1011 Cloverbar Rd. Cost: $25, available online at joyfulsoundconcerts.com, or by calling 866-999-7909. For more info, visit erniehaase.com. Watoto African Children’s Choir Mar. 30, 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.,
North Pointe Comm. Church, 14025-167 Ave., Edm. Watoto Children’s Choir is an African children’s choir based in Uganda. For more info, visit watoto.com.
Guy Penrod May 9, 7 p.m.-10 p.m., Beulah Alliance Church, 17504-98A Ave., Edm. For gospel and country music lovers. Cost: $27.34. Tickets available online at joyfulsoundconcerts.com, or by calling 866-999-7909. Steven Curtis Chapman May 15, 7-9:30 p.m., Evangel Pentecostal Assembly, 4461-50 St., Edm. Five-time Grammy winner performs in Edmonton. Tickets: $28-$35, only available online at shinefm.com.
Classes/Seminars Social Media 101 Mar. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., PageMaster, 11340-120 St., Edm. Launch your faith-driven works online. Learn the basics of building a website, blog, Facebook page for authors and an email list. Cost: $50. To register, contact Melanie at melaniefischer@ hungryforpurpose.com.
21 Leadercast Live May 9, starts 9 a.m., North Pointe Comm. Church, 14025167 Ave., Edm. Cost: $99. Learn from some of today’s greatest leaders. For more info, or to register, visit northpointechurch. ca, or leadercast.com.
Conferences/ Retreats Promise Keepers – Stronger Mar. 14-15, West Edm. Christian Assembly, 6315-199 St., Edm. Cost: $55 until Feb. 18, $70 thereafter. Promise Keepers is a ministry that seeks to ignite, equip and impact men for Christ. Online registration available at promisekeepers.ca, or call 888901-9700. Sexual Purity Retreat Mar. 14-16, Sunnyside Christian
FREE EVENT LISTING!
Retreat Centre at Sylvan Lake (about 30 min. W. of Red Deer) Cost: $350 for mother and one daughter, $150 for each additional daughter. Online registration available at risingoaksministries.com, or call 800-563-4276.
Embrace Women’s Conference May 2-3, ChristCity Church, 14788-156 St., Edm. Special workshops for women of all ages, plus a complimentary spa. Register online at christcity.com. For more info: 780-784-2489. YC Alberta May 23-25, Rexall Place, 118 Ave. and 74 St., Edm. Canada’s premier multidenominational Christian event for youth. Cost: $150. For details, or to register: yc.extremedream.ca, or call 780424-9292.
List your Christian-related event here for FREE! Simply email your event info: name, description, cost, date, time, and location, to events@livinglightnews.com (subject to space availability)
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Living Light News - March/April 2014
Church YourDirectory
We we l c o m e yo u t o. . .
Church Neighbours. .
Edmonton Crossroads Community Church “A Place of Belonging” 11661 – 95 St., 780-474-4324 Pastors Murray & Annetta Jaster Sunday Worship: 3 pm Wed: 7 pm
w w w. n o r t h p o i n te c h u rc h . c a
champion city church
Sunday Service @ 10:15am
7676 Wagner Rd. 780-465-7394
• Contemporary Worship • Relevant & practical messages • Children’s ministry & nursery • Friendly & fun Sunday Service: 10:30 am Meeting at the Polish Veteran’s Hall 9203-144 Ave., Edmonton office: 780-472-2700
Successful living through Jesus Christ!
abundantlifeministries.ca
Lutheran Church
“Where you can feel at home and cared for, living in His Presence.”
We are a Spirit filled church for every generation Sunday: 10 am Wednesday: Prayer & Praise 7:15 pm
Children and Youth Ministry on Sundays Birth - 12 Years | Jr. Youth Gr. 6 & 7
14025 - 167 Ave. Edmonton, AB (780) 452-5566
A church designed with YOU in mind
Service Times
Sunday Services - 9:30 & 11:00am
Ample parking, easily accessible from the Anthony Henday
invite you to visit them this weekend!
A Worship Experience!
Come as you are!
passionate, generational, God - centered worship and preaching
www.championcitychurch.com
Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. Sunday School & Bible Study 11:30 a.m. Pastor Forrest Stroup 4638 - 117 Ave. 780-477-2894
Fort Saskatchewan Life Church 10420 - 98 Avenue, Fort Mall, Fort Saskatchewan 780-992-9673 www.fslifechurch.ca
P
EMMAUS WAY EMMAUS LUTHERAN CHURCH Service – Sunday @ 10am
Welcomes you to visit our Spirit led, Bible based and family oriented congregation.
5015-144 Ave., Edmonton
Light The World
Contemporary Worship, Sunday School, Youth Corner Sundays at 11:00 AM
780-478-8697
Pastor Glen Carlson
10405 - 142 St. 780-454-3463 * We invite you to join us! * Morning Worship@ 10:45 * Pastor John Klamm * www.faithcom.ca
Children’s Ministry – 2-12 yrs (supervised nursery)
Co r n e r s to n e Pentecostal Fellowship Sunday Worship: 11am at Grandin Mall, St. Albert (use centre entrance) Info: 780-459-0551
IT’S A PLACE FOR YOU!
Grace
Sunday Worship at 10:00 am
CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Sunday Children Education (Pre-K to Grade 6) 10:15 am
A Grace Communion International Congregation
Wednesday 6:45pm - Children and Youth Worship and Teaching
Come Celebrate Christ!
• Parenting Class • International Friendship Club • Divorce Care
Worship Service Saturday, 11:00 am
780-905-1124
Mid-week: Connection Groups, Youth Activities
9004-153 Ave. Edmonton 780-456-7890 www.necf.ca • necf@necf.ca Learning together to “live life in Jesus” and to “live the Jesus life.”
Congregation
Beit Mashiach 12404 - 140 Avenue
We are a Torah observant community endeavouring to walk in the fullness of the Jewish roots and heritage of our biblical faith.
http://edmonton.wcgweb.org B A P T I S T
Shabbat Service
Saturday 10:30 am
Pastor Bob Millman
C H U R C H
Yeshiva (Bible Study) Wednesday 7:00 pm
9333-199 St. • Edmonton • 780-451-3881 www.westmeadows.org Pastor Kevin Schular “Where you can Begin, Believe and Belong!”
10162 152nd Street
Messianic Pastor: Andrew Ketel 780-901-5859
( North Edmont www.beitmashiach.com P
We welcome you! We are a family of God, multiplying disciples of Jesus, and we joyfully choose to put relationships of love ahead of every other consideration. We meet weekly to worship on Sundays at 9:30, and we meet weekly to serve on Wednesdays at 5:30 8505 - 142 Street, Edmonton, Alberta 780•483•5366 info@lhbc.ca www.lhbc.ca
Sunday Worship
9:45am - Coffee & Conversation 10:30 - Contemporary Worship 5940-159 Ave, Edmonton 780-454-1936 info@centrepointechurch.ca www.centrepointechurch.ca
Sunday Services: 9:15 am & 11:00 am 11:00 Children’s Sunday School (ages 2 yrs up to Grade 6) Midweek Programs: Youth (Insight & Awana) , College & Career; Ladies Small Group Bible Study, Men’s groups, all meeting during the week 13208-95 St. NW, Edmonton 780-476-5855 northgatebaptist.ca
P
the with Christ Journey Church ( North Edmonton ) [North Edmonton]
( North Edmonton ) A Bible-based, spiritually vibrant, multi-racial, multi-cultural church The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:8
Worship & Prayer Gathering
The Lord will watch over your coming P.M.and going At 4:00
forevermore. both now andService: Sunday 4pm Sunday , August 16, 2009 Psalm 121:8
Meeting at Castledowns Worship & Prayer Gathering Baptist Church At 4:00 P.M. 11250 - 153 Ave. 11250 - 153 Avenue
Castledowns Baptist Church Building
Edmonton, Alberta T5X 5H2
Sunday , August 16, 2009
Contact: Bill 11250 - 153 Pastor Avenue 780-473-3633
Castledowns Baptist Church Building
Edmonton, Alberta T5X 5H2
The Lord will watch over your com
Living Light News - March/April 2014
23
Global
Connections
Edmonton Chinese Baptist Church Sharing God’s love & helping you fulfill His purpose for your life.
SUNDAY SERVICES English Worship 9:15am Sunday School 11am Children’s Programs 9:30am & 11am Chinese Worship 11am 11112 109 Ave 780-426-0891 Senior Pastor: Peter Ng www.ecbchurch.org
North Edmonton Alliance Church
Church
Pastors Steve & Carmen Lynne
Family Service: - Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at 205 Main Street, Spruce Grove - Sunday Evening Service at 6pm at 13931 - 140St., Edmonton
youth, women, married couples, single moms, groups meeting during the week Fully accredited Bible college Call 780-960-9077 for more info
GoodNews! Sharing the
The following organizations and individuals are sponsoring complimentary copies of this newspaper on behalf of local churches and Living Light News for residents in their community! We encourage you to support these organizations with your business and prayers. To be included, call 780-468-NEWS!
www.gcccanada.com
D = Diamond
= Emerald
= Sapphire
Accounting & Finance
5108 McLeod Rd. Edmonton
Cantonese/Mandarin 9:30am
EPR Gordon C. Ferguson & Co., Slave Lake (1-888-849-8383) P H & R Block, Stony Plain (780-963-3066) P Harland Hendrickson - Ocean Rock Investments Inc. (780-466-2629) G Henry J. Theune, Accountant, Fort Sask. (780-998-2060) G Orest Kuchmak - Financial Advisor (780-462-4606) S Presizniuk & Associates (780-448-7317) G Vision Accounting (780-643-8698) S
780-478-1443
Auto Sales & Services Bert’s Auto & Tires (780-484-1034) S Crosstown Auto Centre (780-488-4881) G
First Christian Church
Grande Peace Transport (780-451-7753) G Reliable Radiator Services (780-476-0895) S Valk’s Auto Centre (780-475-0552) S
(Disciples) 13407-97 St. Edmonton
Commercial Sales & Services
Walk in Victory!
Promised Land Ministries Bible Study: 10am Worship: 11am Sunday School:11:15am
780-476-5238 A Church with a Heart - In the Heart of the City
Deliverance & Healing Centre
12145-67 St. NW Edmonton, AB
780-944-0526 www.jesusdelivers.com
DIVERSITY WITH ONE HEART, ONE VOICE, ONE PASSION
W O R S H I P W I T H U S AT
Edmonton Family Worship Centre Contemporary, Charismatic, Caring
10605-96 St. Sundays 10:30 am
AJ Whitehead Welding, Sherwood Park (780-410-9796) G Albos Developments (780-922-2366) G
S= Silver
Pastors: Mark & Sherry Adams Gord & Dawn Hancock 780-483-2665 www.fusionfellowship.ca
Canfab Products (780-451-4341) S Canuck Plumbing (780-997-0996) G PF Custom Countertops (780-484-0831) G The Kitchen Studio & Wallbeds - Etc. (780-468-7088) P
Industrial Sales & Services CCD Energy Services (780-406-2901) G East Gap Oilfield, Slave Lake (780-649-5370) S Ramex Heat Exchangers (780-992-8333) P Whitemud Iron Works Group (780-701-3295)S
Nonprofit / Ministry Canadian Bible Society, Edmonton (780-439-7729) S Children First Family Services (780-433-6760) S
Professional Services
Ashton Transport (780-998-7511) P
Park Veterinary Centre, Sherwood Park (780-417-1119) S
High Speed Printing & Promotional Products (780-434-7431) G
Snyder & Associates LLP (780-426-4133) S
Soft Effects Computer Services (780-963-3623) S
Van Doesburg Law (780-451-2661) S
Trimtech Industries (780-455-9643) G
Consumer Services
Real Estate Angus MacInnes Appraisals (780-499-5657) S
Amsterdam Tailors (780-423-1833) S
Arlie Jesperson - Realty Executives Leading (780-916-2333) P
Fort Moving (780-998-2422) S
Canyon Springs Master Builder (780-487-3021) G
Modigliani Hair (780-486-3768) S
Dan Gitzel - Realty Executives North Star (780-455-0777) S
Edmonton Society for Christian Education (780-408-7933) S Glenn’s Driving School (780-478-1777) S
Health, Fitness & Beauty Aspen Healthcare/Homecare Surgical (780-452-4386) S Congdon’s Aids to Daily Living (780-483-1762) S Dr. David Milner, Dentist G Hayes Denture Clinic, Spruce Grove (780-960-0227) S Ihear Unicare (780-409-9585) S Paradigm Esteem (780-962-0152) S Provincial Home Oxygen (780-930-7052) G Provincial Sleep Group / Sleep Apnea Clinic (780-701-4531) G Spice For Life Watkins Products (780-932-3224) S
Home Improvement & Decor Children’s Ministry for Nursery to Grade 6 available at all services unless otherwise noted on website.
Bullitproof Construction, Slave Lake (780-805-9884) P
Al & Kevin Koleba - State Farm Insurance (780-435-7817) S
The Medicine Shoppe, Skyview (780-472-9929) G
Saturday Evening Service - 6:30 p.m. Sunday Morning Services - 9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Home Improvement & Decor
All-Lock-Rescue (780-447-5625) S
Education Meeting: Sat. @ 6pm 10105 - 153 St
780-424-6422 www.efwc.org
G = Gold
FORT SASKATCHEWAN
Sunday Services: English 11am
Sunday Services
P= Platinum
Alberta Rock Products (780-451-2260) G April Glass & Mirror (780-452-2124) G
Eagle Acres Properties (780-916-4968) G Fernwood Developments (780-430-1375) P Guy Pelletier - Century 21 Reward Realty (780-473-2589) S Kellington Real Estate Group, Fort Sask. (780-288-9011) G Pam Tycholaz - Remax Real Estate, Fort Sask. (780-777-0202) S Sabo Bros. Enterprises (780-466-3104) D
Restaurants & Food Services Dutch Delicious Bakery & Deli (780-455-2323) G NHA Trang Vietnamese Restaurant (780-479-4649) S Steve Schattle (Tim Hortons) P
Retail Sales & Services Ar-Jay’s (780-476-0448) S Christian Book & Record (780-478-2798) S Massey’s Sewing Machines (780-454-6869) S
Travel & Lodging Camp Nakamun, Busby (780-967-5585) S
‘The Gate’ Service
for Youth & Young Adults, Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. Held next door at Victory Church and followed by an event. Phone: 780-467-7005 www.heartlandalliance.ca • general@heartlandalliance.ca 132-2257 Premier Way, Sherwood Park
All listings are in Edmonton unless otherwise indicated.
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