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RAMIREZ REBORN encourages the minor league players he now coaches to “follow the rules.” It’s a change, he shares, brought on by a newfound relationship with Jesus Christ. Apparently, “Manny being Manny” means something new. “Manny gave me as many problems as he gave anyone … in his time in Boston,” former Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein told a hometown radio station. “He’s responsible for most of the grey hairs on my head.” G Gold Sponsor
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And then some – while Ramirez spent eight years as a Red Sox, twice leading them to World Series wins, he also had a penchant for trouble. He physically fought with everyone from teammate Kevin Youkilis to elderly Red Sox secretary Jack McCormick. He twice tested positive for violating baseball’s drug policy, first sitting out 50 games in 2009 and next voluntarily retiring rather than facing a 100-game suspension
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INSIDE
Faith at the finish line Savouring the single life Marching to a different beat See you on the other side
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ON THE ROCKS BY LAILANI MENDOZA
Split for five years, their marriage went from rock bottom to rock solid. They say it was a miracle. READ STORY ON PAGE 2d
in 2008. Not to mention his high-profile 2011 arrest for domestic battery against his wife Juliana. Yet Epstein, now the Chicago Cubs GM, is convinced Ramirez is a changed man. “I talked a lot to Manny, and he seemed like a completely different guy,” he said. “He’s grown for the better. He’s open and honest about all the mistakes he’s made in the past and he wants to fix that by being a positive influence on young players.”
Those would be the boys of the Triple-A Iowa Cubs, a Chicago affiliate where Ramirez now both coaches and plays. Still a big stick, the righty steps up to the plate about two games a week for the Cubs. More importantly, Ramirez imparts the baseball genius that propelled him toward 555 career homers and a .312 batting average to up-and-coming minorleague hitters like Javier Baez, Arismendy Alcantara and Kris Bryant.
Chronic He l Spur? Ten is Elbow? Shoulder Pain?
continued on page 2
photo courtesy Dylan Heuer/Iowa Cubs
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M
anny Ramirez sports a high-fade Mohawk now; the trademark dreadlocks are gone. So too is the love for bulldozing past the rules and burning bridges. Famous for his 19-year major league career filled with home runs, doping scandals and off-field antics, the 42-year-old baseball great
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Living Light News - September/October 2014 Vicki began sharing the Bible with her kids, who suggested they pray for Dad. “I started to read the Bible, and [learned] what it It feels like a lifetime ago, but Vicki Rose still said about marriage and divorce. I wanted my life remembers that day on the beach in Hilton Head, to be for God and not Vicki anymore,” she explains. South Carolina. As she prayed daily for her husband’s salvation, her Happy couples were running up and down the anger subsided and she was able to forgive. sandy shore, and children were splashing and Eventually things started happening in Bill’s life. playing in the water. It was a beautiful sunny day, “When we were separated, I started waking up in but there she sat looking at the ocean with tears the morning in tears realizing there’s gotta be more streaming down her face. to life than doing copious amounts of cocaine and The young mom wanted to see her family alcohol together,” he says. He started watching a TV frolicking. Instead, her husband of eight years was evangelist and began praying to God. “That’s when in their hotel room dozing off the effects of cocaine, my heart started opening.” her two babies miles away with a sitter in New York. Through Vicki’s connections, Bill heard his baseball And there she was. Alone. hero Bobby Richardson share his faith. “In December “I had tried everything I knew to do, and none of of 1990, I heard a message that touched my heart. It that worked,” she says. “I was just very lost.” was at that dinner I prayed to receive Christ.” It wasn’t always that way. Early in their relationship, Bill’s next step was entering rehab. “I had tried to Bill and Vicki were happily in love. Vicki, then a give up coke on my own many times unsuccessfully, buyer for Saks Fifth Avenue, caught Bill’s eye. and I used to have terrible, terrible withdrawal “I saw her walk out of a building,” says Bill. “I was symptoms,” he explains. with a friend of mine and I said, ‘She’s pretty cute.’ ” “I was going through the same withdrawals that first Raised in an opulent household, Bill loved sports night in rehab, and I just got down on my knees and and worked at his family’s company supplying fabric Bill and Vicki Rose started praying to God ... Within seconds, all of these for high-end designers like Calvin Klein and Oscar withdrawal symptoms were just lifted off of me.” dela Renta. Another miracle took place a year later. After five and Vicki’s answer came in an invitation to hear Vicki had critical parents and lived in the shadow a half years of separation, Bill came home – for good. a couple speak at the Waldorf Astoria. For the of her older sister, which created a desire for That was 23 years ago. Their once rocky marriage exhausted single mom, it was a chance to relax and attention and a fascination with a glamourous life. now has a solid foundation – the Rock, Jesus Christ. get dressed up, so she went. Their first date took place in an elite private club. Married for 37 years, they pray together and read The couple’s message resonated with her. “They The next date was a NHL game followed by a fancy God’s Word daily. They’ve also learned to better talked about their emptiness and how Jesus Christ dinner. Vicki was impressed. Bill made life exciting communicate with each other. was the only one who could fill it.” and he represented the lifestyle she always wanted. “God continues to be our bond,” says Vicki, who “When they offered us an opportunity to pray, So when he proposed with a stunning sapphire-andshares their incredible story of reconciliation in her I prayed and asked Jesus Christ into my life,” she diamond engagement ring, Vicki excitedly said yes. book Every Reason To Leave. says. “When I left that night, I knew there was After marrying in 1977, problems surfaced. “We had no shot at getting back together again – something different.” Besides being Jewish New Yorkers, they had little and we’ve been back together since 1991,” says Bill, Indeed, Vicki started acting differently. “I had a in common. When dating, Vicki did whatever Bill who works as a pro baseball sports agent. joy inside that I’ve never had before,” she explains. wanted hoping things would change when they got “If God can heal our marriage, He can heal “My neighbour said, ‘Vicki, do you have a new married. Instead, it was more of the same. “I really thought that being married would answer boyfriend? You seem so happy!’ I was like, ‘Yeah, His anybody’s marriage. The fact that we’re together is an absolute miracle.” name is Jesus!’ ” that deep need I had to be loved and cared for,”
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Vicki tells Living Light News. When Douglas was born, they were clueless about parenting. Bill worked long hours, and Vicki felt isolated as a parent. “I felt very alone, and Billy was in no way involved with caring for Douglas.” Vicki was pregnant with their second child when Bill opened a restaurant and sports bar near Wall Street. It consumed Bill’s time and energy. In addition to his cocaine use, the business added more strain to a marriage already at its breaking point. So on that day at the beach, Vicki wondered, “Is this really what life and marriage are all about?” Two weeks later, she asked Bill to leave.
photo courtesy Douglas Rose
by Lailani Mendoza
Ramirez’ top advice? “Do the right thing, bro,” he told the AP. “Follow the rules. That’s it.” It’s a far cry from his previous persona, and Ramirez knows it. “To be honest, I’ve been in church now for almost four years, me and my wife. Now, I realize that I behaved bad in Boston,” he told fans at a May celebration for the 2004 Red Sox Series triumph. “The fans, they were great ... I really realize that I behaved bad. I apologize for that, but I’m a new man,” he explains, referring to his spiritual transformation. “That’s what Jesus said, and that’s what I believe.” Born in the Dominican Republic but raised in Manhattan, Ramirez joined the majors in 1993. By the time he arrived in Boston in 2001, he was a full-fledged slugger, eventually earning 12 All-Star nods, a World Series MVP, nine Silver Slugger awards and an MLB record for 29 career post-season home runs. Yet it wasn’t long before the 6-0, 225-pounder became famous for his behaviour off the diamond – especially the 2008 shoving match with McCormick, a man nearly three decades his senior.
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It finally came to a head when Ramirez landed in jail for the eventually-dropped battery charge. “When I went to jail with a problem with my wife, they didn’t let me see my kids for two or three months ... I said ‘Manny, you’ve got to change.’ ” He shared with MLB.com, “I walked with the devil . . . It feels great but where does your soul go? Nowhere good. I made mistakes. I was dead on the inside. “You have millions of dollars, alcohol, drugs, and all the women you want. You can lose yourself. I got lost. “The steroids and what happened with my wife and not being there for my family, all that had to happen to me for me to fall.” The broken Ramirez started attending church and surrendered his life to the God who gave him his talent and helped him earn over $200 million. “Sometimes when you’ve got power, you’ve got money, you think you’re invincible,” he said at a press conference. “Sometimes God says, ‘Hey, come here, this is where you need to be.’ ” Where he needed to be was at home with his family and eventually on another baseball field – apologizing to not only
the fans, but his co-workers, too. McCormick was a good place to start; Ramirez publicly admitted his guilt at the Red Sox’ 10-year Series reunion. Those who have known him the longest, like former teammate Pedro Martinez, say Ramirez’ colourful past can now be turned into good. “You know, Manny’s in a perfect position to be an example of what not to do and also what to do,” he told reporters. Though his redemption story is exactly what sports movies are made of, Ramirez knows his cheating led to his too-early retirement. He will probably never return to the big leagues, but because of God’s peace, he’s okay with that. “I just put everything in [God’s] hands,” Ramirez says. “If it happens, it happens. If not, I know He’s got something better for me.” Like mending the ties in his family and teaching his Cubs. “I don’t have no regrets. You know why? Because if those things didn’t happen, I wouldn’t get to know God.” he says. “You walk with God, and although the road starts rough, it ends on a good note,” Ramirez explained to MLB.com. Yet, Iowa manager Marty Pevey told the Des Moines Register that some things haven’t changed. “He looks exactly the same as he did,” he said. “Exactly.” He’s only talking about that famous Ramirez swing, of course.
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
Newsbriefs Keeping It Positive EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – When New York Giants running back David Wilson received the news that abruptly ended his pro football career, no one could have predicted his positive response. At a press conference announcing his retirement, the 23-yearold chose to look forward and remember the positive things in the three seasons he spent with the Giants. “A lot of people only get to dream their dream. I lived that dream. Now I have a chance to dream another dream and live that too,” said a grateful Wilson, wiping what he said were “tears of joy.” “I was a first round draft choice of the New York Giants. I scored touchdowns. I caught touchdowns. I returned kicks for
touchdowns and I set records. So I got to do some of the things I dreamed of doing all my life.” Wilson suffered a serious spinal injury last October and underwent spinal fusion surgery in January. He had just received clearance to play when he took a hit at training camp, and felt numbness in his hands and lower extremities. The Virginia Tech grad said he’d asked God to speak to him through his doctors, so despite receiving the sad news, he felt peace. “The doctors dealt with this injury before and I’m comfortable with their answer,” Wilson said. “They told me that I would live a healthy life. I have a long life to live. I’m only 23 years old. I’ve been blessed.”
A Bigger Goal For Brooks CANTON, OH – ExBuccaneers linebacker Derrick Brooks may be considered one of the best linebackers in NFL history, but he has a goal much bigger than the Hall of Fame – making a difference. He certainly left a legacy in his 14-year stay in the NFL: making 11 Pro Bowl appearances, leading Tampa Bay to its first ever Super Bowl win, and being named NFL Defensive Player in 2002, and Pro Bowl MVP in 2005. As Tampa Bay Storm’s new team president, the Pensacola native plans to leave an imprint in the Arena League franchise by training his players to be
men of character. “I believe we have the ingredients to win a championship,” he told Sports Spectrum. Influenced by his Christian mentor Tony Dungy, Brooks likes to maintain high standards. “We do want to win, but there’s a certain way we want to win. Integrity is important.” His passion for excellence stems from his relationship with Jesus Christ. As he likes to say, “the award I’m striving for is to spend eternity with God.” While he aims for nothing less than excellence, his favourite Proverbs from the Bible allows him to rest in God: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
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Random Acts Of Kindness ELKHART, IN – Alex Radelich didn’t expect the Hollywood comedy Evan Almighty to change his life. One scene in particular resonated with the former Purdue University student. Steve Carell’s character asks “How can we change the world?” and Morgan Freeman, who plays God, replies “One act of random kindness at a time.” This scene inspired Radelich to perform a benevolence experiment that led to the founding of ARK Project Now, a non-profit promoting Acts of Random Kindness (ARK). “It took hold of my heart in a way that nothing ever has, and I knew that this was what I was made for,” Radelich told TODAY. The devout Christian, who dropped out of university to work on the project full time,
runs the non-profit with four friends who plan to spread an epidemic of kindness (“As for you brothers, do not grow weary in doing good,” he tweeted). They recently completed a 6,000-mile journey across the US in an RV – handing out coffee to strangers, cooking for families of children in long-term care, and giving care packages to the homeless, along with cards urging recipients to pass the kindness on. Because for people like Janette McGhee, whose family received an ARK-sponsored shopping spree while waiting for her son’s heart surgery, one simple gesture means a lot. “Random acts of kindness are rarer than they should be,” she told TODAY. “I feel like with our situation, it was pretty neat to have these guys come.
EL SEGUNDO, CA – There’s a new beginning for Jeremy Lin after being acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers – and he’s embracing the opportunity with open arms. “I’m so blessed to join the @Lakers and can’t wait to get started!” Lin tweeted shortly after the announcement. The 26-yearold point guard from California is hopeful following a short stint with the Houston Rockets punctuated with injuries. “Sad it never went, or ended, the way I envisioned, but God always has a perfect plan and I’ll forever cherish that chapter of my life,” he said. Happy to be home, the Harvard alum posted a hilarious parody video about him “going Hollywood” that
quickly went viral. While Lin is known for his unexpected shot to fame playing for the New York Knicks in 2012 – outscoring Kobe Bryant with 38 points against the Lakers in a 92-85 victory – he feels relieved to have Linsanity behind him. “Now I’m looking to the future. I’m trying to be a bigger and better player than I was before,” says the four-year NBA veteran. This includes learning from NBA legends Bryant and Steve Nash. “What can’t you learn from them? I want to learn everything,” Lin told Basketball Insiders. “I’m hoping our team gets out there early or something before camp so I can start spending more time with them right away.
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
The Weight Of Glory by Andrew Hess
S
Where do we turn when our world falls apart? above described suffering as a “light, momentary affliction.” When I go through hard times, I don’t naturally choose words like “light” and “momentary.” How can Paul describe a lifetime of hardship as momentary? Paul understood how short this life is and how very long life in heaven will be. This was so real to him that it affected the way he lived. If affected the way he chased and obeyed God’s call on his life and the way he processed each and every difficulty that came along. Regardless of what came, Paul had eternity stamped on his heart. And as far as I can tell from his writings, he never lost this perspective. I don’t know what you’ve been going through. Perhaps you’ve been going through a season of discouragement and suffering. If so, hear the words of Paul. If you belong to Jesus Christ, consider the weight of glory that is yours. Study and think deeply about all that waits for you in heaven. It will help you endure knowing a day is coming when all stings will be cast away once and for all. As Samuel Rutherford once wrote a suffering member of his church, “When we shall come home, and enter into the possession of our Brother’s fair kingdom, and when our heads shall find the weight of the eternal crown of glory, then we shall look back to pains and sufferings and then we will see life and sorrow to be less than one step or stride from a prison to glory. Our little inch of time-suffering is not worthy of our first night’s welcome-home to heaven.” Let us look to the God of all comfort in our dark moments and never forget we will soon trade in our light, momentary afflictions for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. Andrew Hess is the senior editor of Churchleaders.com in Colorado Springs, CO. You can follow Andrew on Twitter at @AndrewWHess.
“Deer Dad, I hoap you have a nise Fathers Day. “You need to apply for student loans so you “One diet to eat You aredoctor smarttold and me funny andmore mom fruit, is two.nuts can go to college and get a good job to pay and Have grains. Another toldand me speshul to eat more meat, fish a reely grate day tooday. off your student loans.” and cheese. Longyou story gained 40 pounds!” PS: Thank for short, sendingI me to collige!”
The Greatest Joy Thief by Phil Callaway
W
hen I was four I flushed a fluffy washcloth down the toilet. I knew it was wrong, but a voice said, “Do it!” so I did. The pipes weren’t made for items of that size and soon a very puzzled plumber showed up to retrieve the washcloth. He showed it to my equally puzzled father who frowned at me. I said, “It musta fallen in.” I later tried flushing firecrackers down those same pipes, but couldn’t get them to stay lit long enough to do what they were created to do. Woah! I had problems! But be honest. What was the first act of sinfulness you remember committing? Probably the thing that convinced me more than anything else that I was a sinner was sports. I accepted hockey into my life at an early age. Nothing beat winning at any cost. I carved guys up with my stick, used words they didn’t teach us in Sunday School, and even spit on a Bible College guy who tripped me going in on a breakaway.
s Phil Callaway Sinner? You bet. If ever you doubt the depravity of man, referee church hockey. I did. One night I broke up a fight between two pastors. As I put them in the penalty box one said to me, “When I play hockey I leave Jesus behind.” I said, “You ain’t kiddin.” The Bible teaches us that all have sinned. Golf teaches this too. Hockey does not require you to put yourself in the penalty box or blow the whistle when you go offside. But that’s what golf requires: absolute integrity. And nothing gives me the urge to cheat like the game of golf – with the possible exception of Dutch Blitz at Christmas time. In Psalm 15, David
asked, “Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right.” I’ve tried to live this way, thinking I can measure up. It’s impossible. One thousand years before golf was invented Romans 3 was written. It says, “There is no one righteous not even one ... All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Sometimes you have to hear bad news before you
Joy returns as we set others free.
can get to the good. And the good news is this: there is One who is righteous, who is good enough to take our sins, dump them in the deepest sea and put up a “No fishing” sign. His name is Jesus. When we admit our sin and trust Him, He removes the greatest joy thief of all: separation from God.
And it allows us to take three steps that bring back the joy: 1. Re-adjust our focus. When we take our eyes off ourselves and fix them on Jesus, He begins to transform our minds, our desires, our behaviour patterns, even our frowns. 2. Set others free. When someone hurt me I remember thinking, “He doesn’t deserve forgiveness,” and the thought hit me, “Do I?” God has shown me such amazing grace; one of the great joys of life is to show it to others. For every day we’re bitter we lose 24 hours of joy, so let’s forgive others as quickly as God forgave us. Joy returns as we set others free. 3. Live with gratitude. You want to laugh again? Live with thanksgiving for God’s redemption and forgiveness. And each time we see a washcloth or a firecracker may we celebrate a father’s forgiveness and give thanks for the riches of God’s grace. Phil Callaway is a speaker, best-selling author, and host of Laugh Again Radio. Check it out at laughagain.org
www.glasbergen.com www.glasbergen.com © 2014 © 2014 by by Randy Randy Glasbergen Glasbergen
ome of my favourite Bible verses are when the apostle Paul encouraged and comforted his suffering brothers and sisters. Writing to new believers going through significant hardships, Paul himself endured great suffering throughout his life. s Andrew Hess “Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the 40 lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure.” (2 Corinthians 11:24-27) Most of us have not and will not experience suffering to that extent, but we will certainly go through trials in our lives. Whether it’s our health, relationships or finances, there are times when we simply can’t avoid pain. How do we handle these difficulties? Where do we turn when our world falls apart? Thankfully, Paul models the answer in his letter to the Corinthians, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light, momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). Yes, the same man who endured the list of trials
Living Light News - September/October 2014
Safety In Numbers
s Marcia Laycock by Marcia Laycock “Come quick!” My husband was calling from our living room where I found him staring out the front window, laughing and shaking his head. He waved me over. Outside on the sidewalk was a neighbour’s cat. I’d seen him often, hunting birds near the small pond across the street. But this morning he wasn’t hunting. He was surrounded by about 15 large magpies. They hopped around him as he crept slowly along the ground, his head swaying back and forth. I could almost hear his growling and just about imagine what he was thinking. His body language told us he wanted very badly to leap on one of those birds but
he knew under the circumstances that would not be a good idea. The birds looked menacing, even from a distance. Watching them, I wondered if Alfred Hitchcock had ever seen a similar display. They kept up their ominous vigil, hopping all around him, leading him slowly along, seeming to dare him to do something. Then suddenly they took flight and roosted in a nearby tree. The cat sat still for a moment, then made a bee-line for home. “Maybe there was a nest
He was surrounded by about 15 large magpies. nearby, or an injured bird,” I said. “Whatever was happening, it’s obvious there’s safety in numbers.” Safety in numbers. It made me think of Elisha’s servant whose eyes were opened to suddenly see “the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around” (2 Kings 6:17). Unless the Lord draws back the curtain as He
5
The Gravity Of The Situation did that day, we are all blinded to the spiritual realm while we are on this earth, but we can be assured that it is there. God’s armies are about His children, His angels waiting to do His bidding on their behalf. His Spirit – living in those who have accepted Jesus Christ as the Lord of their lives – is ready to guide them forward according to His plan. Even as I tap away at this computer, writing this devotional or finishing my next novel, I can know that they surround me, just as they surrounded Elisha that morning. In the Book of Hebrews, chapter 12, verse 1, the writer says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” There might be a snarling enemy close by, bent on my destruction. But I don’t have to worry – he’s surrounded too. Marcia Laycock’s latest book, ‘A Tumbled Stone,’ is available at www. marcialeelaycock.com or go to atumbledstone.com.
s Rhonda Rhea by Rhonda Rhea
T
here are several reasons I’ll never skydive. I’ll give you my top two. First, I’ve seen videos of people skydiving. Their faces “flutter.” Wildly. I don’t need to see my face flapping violently over my ears, thank you very much. That kind of wind velocity is just not meant for faces over 40. It ends up looking like a basset hound pup with its head out a car window – multiplied by how many years you are over 40. I’m not daring enough to sass the math. Gravity + wind velocity x the number of years over 40. That equation simply can’t equal anything pretty. The second reason you won’t find me skydiving – and the biggest reason – is this simple: gravity. Skydiving could all too easily become sky-dying. It’s
not even the jumping out of a plane part that scares me so much as the inevitability of the hitting the ground part. And the possibility of it ending in a splat. Sometimes I wonder if people who skydive don’t really understand the “gravity” of the situation. That reminds me, though, how glad I am that I know where I’m headed, eternally speaking. I don’t fear death; I do fear pain. Actually it’s not quite fear of pain. It’s more of a vigorously enthusiastic hatred of pain. Pain or no pain, if you’re a Christian your future is secure. And death, however it comes, is not the end. There’s amazing comfort there. And that always puts fear in its place. It even puts
Keeping my heart means giving it away. math in its place. Second Corinthians 4:1618 says, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.”
The Amplified version of verse 17 describes our existence on the other side of this flappy-faced life as “an everlasting weight of glory, beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!” Now that, my friends, is a weight that defies gravity. This is math I can love. It’s a beyond-all-measure, neverceasing glory. Its calculations are beyond comparison in this life. I want to follow Paul’s instructions in this passage to “not lose heart.” Instead of losing my heart, I want to keep it. And I know it’s some strange math, but I think keeping my heart means giving it away. A heart fully surrendered to Christ is able to look past the pains of this life and to look past a wildly flapping, wasting-away face, experiencing renewal day by day. I want to live in that renewal. I want to live this life well in the power of the One who created me. And then, I want to finish well. I want to “stick the landing,” so to speak. Even if it ends with a splat. Rhonda Rhea is a radio personality and conference speaker across North America. Find out more at www. RhondaRhea.org.
Adopting An Attitude Of Gratitude by Dr. Charles F. Stanley
D
o you consider yourself a grateful person? Most of us would probably classify ourselves that way, especially at Thanksgiving time, when we typically take inventory of our blessings. But listen honestly as you pray. Do you find that your Thank-Yous quickly s Dr. Charles F. Stanley give way to a list of requests? Psalm 92:1 tells us, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord.” It was a lesson God had been trying to teach His children for a long time. Shortly after the Israelites were freed from Egyptian bondage, He issued commandments for how they were to live – these included a “sacrifice of thanksgiving” (Leviticus 22:29). The Value Of Thanking God Why would the Lord be so concerned about the Hebrews’ gratitude? The Lord was establishing a new nation, and He knew how critical it was that the people understand this foundational truth: He was the one true God. And so it was God’s desire to get the young nation’s attention fixed on Him. In carrying out this commandment, the priests stayed focused upon the One who was their creator, deliverer, provider and guide. Their sacrifices were also frequently visible reminders to the community that they all owed their freedom, their life, and therefore, their devotion to the miracle-working Jehovah. Just as the Israelites were to recall the Lord’s blessings, believers today should follow the same pattern. No matter what is currently going on in our life, we all have blessings, and God deserves our appreciation. Thanking God may not come naturally to us, because we
live in a culture that in many ways is ungrateful and takes a lot for granted. But ingratitude of any sort does not fit the believer. Failure to thank the Lord is a serious matter, because in essence it is saying, “This is my life; I can do what I please.” We should be constantly mindful that we were created in our mother’s womb by the living God. Let’s look at ways we can give more pre-eminence to thanking God. First, we will have heightened praise for the Lord as we grow in our understanding of Him. The better we know God, the more reasons we have to praise Him. Whether it relates to His holiness, grace, power or some other divine attribute, each new truth expands our understanding of how awesome and exciting our eternal God is. As we get a bigger glimpse of His greatness, our prayers will naturally include more praising and less asking. Second, our praise for God will be elevated as we meditate on His glorious works and speak of them, both to the Lord and to others. Notice how often in the Psalms David alluded to what the Lord had done earlier days – he was exalting God for His mighty works of old. We should do likewise, and we can base our praise on any portion of
No matter what is currently going on in our life, we all have blessings. Scripture. No matter where you read in the Old or New Testament, the Lord’s mighty works are evident, and you will find yourself praising Him for what He has done. Third, we become more thankful when we make the conscious decision to spend more time praising God than petitioning Him. Many Christians have no trouble speaking to God and making requests. But when it comes to listening, they find it difficult to be quiet before the Lord. To correct this imbalance, I recommend committing to a time of prayer in which you focus almost exclusively on praising God. Fourth, we can lift the level of our praise by focusing on
the Lord’s grace in our lives. Consider the many sins God has forgiven and all the times He has rescued you from danger. What a motivation to praise Him! Now think back to the moment of your salvation, when God came into your life and changed your eternal destiny. How often do you praise Him for saving you and transforming your life? How often do you thank Him for dying an agonizing, brutal death in order to give you everlasting life? What about His grace to you each day? Think about the times you have failed, and you will want to thank God for His mercy, understanding, and patience. Fifth, our praise will increase when we are emotionally free to express it. We should have the freedom to give God our honest, heartfelt praise. When we learn to offer genuine, unhindered expressions of appreciation, the Spirit has more liberty to glory the Lord through us. Then, an exciting result is that our life’s testimony and influence will become more powerful and far-reaching. Finally, praise is enhanced when our life matches our thankfulness. There are some people who show up at church on Sunday morning and jump up and down, shouting “Hallelujah!” But during the week, they never talk to anyone about Jesus, never serve the Lord, never give anything to further the kingdom. They seem concerned only about their three friends: Me, Myself, and I. This attitude is incompatible with sincere praise. Does your praise need to be lifted to the next level? Thanksgiving would be a wonderful time to start refocusing your prayers. Ask God, “Is too much of my praying wrapped up in me?” As the Lord reveals what your heart attitude has been, know that He is already pleased with your desire to praise Him more. Then trust the Holy Spirit to guide you. Not only will your prayer life change; you will also find yourself empowered for service and impact. Dr. Charles F. Stanley, author of more than 50 books, is the pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, GA and founder of In Touch Ministries. In Touch programming is available in Canada on television and radio. For broadcasting details, visit intouchcanada.org. Article courtesy In Touch Ministries © 2014.
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
Marvelous
Marc
by Melanie F. Gibbs
Prince of Peace,” declares the 54-year-old. “He took me from the death list to the book
“The tallest I’ve ever stood was the day I got down on my knees.” of life.” In 2007, Mero founded Champion of Choices, a non-profit organization that gives him the opportunity to encourage young people to make positive choices. His “Choices” presentation has changed and even saved lives. Folks in Alberta and Saskatchewan will be able to hear the wrestling champion for themselves during the Hope 4 More event Lloydminster, September 19-21. Concerts, strongman competitions, a talent contest,
live music, camping and fireworks at the Battle River Ranch Camp event promises a weekend of outdoor fun for the whole family. “Marc is one of the best speakers I have ever heard present the Gospel message with his story,” says Natalie Ackerman, organizer of Hope 4 More. “He is engaging, funny, and then reaches the heart issues.” While Hope 4 More will be geared primarily for youth, Mero’s
message is for the entire family. He will visit schools, then share his story Friday evening and sign copies of his book How To Be The Happiest Person On The Planet. After a strongman competition, he will talk about what makes a real strongman. “With Marc you see the love and concern for others. It does not matter where you’ve been,” says Ackerman. “So many people are confused in this world about who they are, what is truth,” she adds.
“We have bought a lie that we can buy our own way to happiness.” But as Mero has discovered all along, a fulfilled life and an unflappable resilience can only be found in Christ. “Our greatest life lessons come in the valley. It’s not about our circumstance, but how we respond to them,” says a transformed Mero. “Through my faith in Christ I have a new response to circumstance.”
Former wrestler Marc Mero will speak about making the right choices at the Hope 4 More event in Lloydminster, Sept. 19-21.
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Growing up in New York, Marc Mero excelled in sports. Although he knew adversity as a child – his parents’ divorce, being raised by a single mother and subsequent financial hardship – he chose to dream big. In fact, he kept a goal-setting book – a book of dreams. Not only did Mero’s dreams lead him to become MVP of his hockey league and a football All-star, he also won the New York state Golden Gloves boxing title. He planned to turn pro, training with the USA boxing team, but an accident and bad choices ruined his budding career. Mero bounced back and landed on the wrestling ring. He earned the title Rookie of the Year in 1991 – 21 years after he wrote it in his book of dreams. Wrestling under the aliases “Johnny B. Badd” or “Marvelous” Marc Mero, he reached the pinnacle of his sport as a WCW and WWF champ. But further bad choices – drugs, alcohol, hanging out with the wrong people – sent
Mero’s life spiraling out of control. He followed close on the heels of more than 30 friends and family members who died from drug and steroid use. To top it off, his wife of 10 years left him. He was hopeless and suicidal. On Christmas Day 2003, as people were celebrating with friends and family, a troubled Mero sat alone under a pier. Not long after, he recalls grabbing his hand gun and planning to kill himself. Fortunately, God intervened. “A vision came to me of hell, of all these people in torment,” Mero recalls. “I was terrified. It was not a place I wanted to go.” There on his shower floor, he begged Christ for forgiveness. “The tallest I’ve ever stood was the day I got down on my knees.” After his life to Jesus Christ, Mero realized God had a higher purpose for him. “God adores us. He’s the greatest Giver of all. He gave the gift of His Son. I needed peace in my heart; He’s the
A CHAMPION OF CHOICES
Living Light News - September/October 2014
7
COURTING THEIR DREAMS
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bring God the most glory.” Both girls started following Jesus in high school. Despite a hectic schedule of sports, studies and social life during college, they learned to make Him their priority. They quote the Bible regularly – often on social media – hoping to share its impact with others. “Scripture is my daily bread to connect with God and learn about what He wants from us,” Michelle says. “I can turn to different passages in different times of need to encourage me and inspire me.” Back home in Edmonton, the sisters began training for the Canadian National Women’s Team. “It’s been great to be home with family!” Michelle says. “It has also been nice to train in the new facilities that have been provided and to have the support from all the people that have helped me along the way.” The sisters are vying for a spot on Team Canada (ranked ninth in the world). If they make the team, they’re already at the right place – Edmonton will be hosting the FIBA
Olympic qualifiers next year. They’ll also continue training at Saville Centre to prepare for the World Championships in Turkey in September. Both hope for pro basketball careers in Europe, and in fact Michelle will be playing in France for Arras Pays d’Artois. Katherine hopes to land a spot in Romania and go on to play with her sister for Canada in the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. Even with all these goals and ambitions, the Plouffe girls manage to keep their eyes on the ball. Katherine likes to quote the book of Proverbs, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Knowing this helps keep basketball in perspective, and to realize that while hoops has been a wonderful part of their life, it’s not their whole life. “My faith keeps me grounded and brings me peace,” says Michelle. “Even if I think it may be my time to be somewhere, He might have a different plan for me! I just try to give God the glory as much as possible.”
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Many athletes thank God when they’ve won a big championship or gold medal – but thanking God when times are tough is a testament to both faith and character. Edmonton’s Katherine and Michelle Plouffe, twin basketball players on their way to the pinnacle of athletic success, know what it’s like to stay strong in their faith in the face of adversity. The Plouffe sisters, 21, grew up in a family of hoopers. Two older brothers played through high school, and older sister Andrea went on to play college ball in the States. For Michelle and Katherine, basketball was in their blood. “Andrea was a trailblazer for female basketball players in Edmonton,” says Michelle. “She was a hard worker and a super tough player on the court. She showed us that we could earn ourselves a scholarship to an NCAA school if we worked for it.” The Plouffe twins followed in their sister’s footsteps, each playing in Division 1 NCAA schools – Katherine with the
Marquettes in Wisconsin them cope with setbacks. “It’s really about trusting and Michelle with the Utes “Being cut from a team God and believing He in Salt Lake City. Katherine definitely stings and can be knows what’s best for me. was a unanimous first team devastating, but it also isn’t Ultimately it’s not about All-Star in the Big East the end,” says Katherine. what I want but what will Conference, averaging 17.6 points per game, making the 6-foot-3 “BEING CUT FROM forward A TEAM DEFINITELY second among STINGS … BUT IT ALSO Big East ISN’T THE END.” scorers. Utah Utes’ 6-foot-3 forward Michelle scored an average of 18.4 points per game and 10.4 rebounds. The school’s all-time rebound leader also scored the second most points in a season. Michelle also represented Canada at the 2012 London Olympics. Both sisters were prospects for the WNBA draft this year, and Michelle was chosen in the second round by the Seattle Storm but was later cut in training camp. Edmonton’s twin hoopsters Katherine and Michelle Plouffe Their relationship are playing to clinch a spot at the 2016 Olympics. with Jesus Christ helps
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
SeniorScene Postcard
Perfect Photos:
Learning Digital Photography by Carolyn Tomlin Are you like many seniors who once used 35 mm cameras and mailed film for processing – hoping that at least a few of your prints were what you expected? Well, that time is over! Learning to master a digital camera and make simple changes is like having your own darkroom and developing studio. Use these tips for capturing the best action shots of friends, family, pets and especially, grandchildren. Start with simple equipment. Of course, you want a reliable camera, but avoid the complicated instruments. An inexpensive point-and-shoot will meet your needs until it’s time to upgrade. Learn the basic rules of photography. Experiment by shooting the same object or scene using different combinations of shutter speed, ISO and aperture. You will find that by playing with these three settings, you can achieve varied results. When shooting sports, landscape or night scenes, having a tripod may help minimize or
eliminate blur. Keep your camera with you at all times. They say the best camera is the one that’s with you. You don’t want to miss interesting shots. Can you predict when a rainbow may appear? Or a beautiful sunset? Or perhaps a butterfly zigzagging among the flowers? Take plenty of photos. You may not have the same opportunity again. Fortunately, digital photography helps keep the costs down because you can take lots of photos and print only the best shots. Make a note of the time of day and direction of the sun. Known to photographers as the “golden hour,” an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset is considered the best light for taking pictures. Use these time slots to practice taking photos. Learn to see objects with fresh eyes. Some people walk around and say, “I don’t see anything to photograph.” Others can spend hours using their sense of
sight to record items – even the most mundane. The difference is in learning to look at things with fresh eyes. One senior has collected photos of the 26 letters of the alphabet for her grandchild. Look at a metal swing set and see the letter “A” or a “T” in a telephone pole or a “Z” in the crack of a sidewalk. Encourage young children in your life to be creative and help spot those hidden letters. Then together, take the photo and display it in their room. You can also use the photo letters to spell out words for a scrapbook. Use imagination with composition. Writers use words to tell a story – photographers use a camera. Good
Take plenty of photos – you may not have this opportunity again. composition is one of the most important aspects of memorable photos. As you develop this skill, use positioning, perspective, colour, shape, focus and scale. What looks good to you? What doesn’t? As you learn more about composition, you’ll discover guidelines and rules to follow. However, rules are meant to be broken. Allow your individuality to shine through. Think of a key-hole effect where you see a small part of a greater object. Focus on this minute section. Using the “rule of thirds” is the most common placement guideline in composition. An imaginary grid line sections the photo into horizontal and vertical thirds. Place your subject in the four ideal spots and see what works best. Digital photography is simple to learn and can become a hobby to share with others. Have fun and use your imagination to create pictures that keep the memories fresh in your mind.
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
Parenting
Peek-a-boo
I SeeYou Doing Good!
“Stop that! Put that down! Don’t touch that! I said no ... I said yes ... I said maybe ... Wait ‘til your mother gets home.” My youngest daughter Maddy was sitting on Sometimes I just get tired of my own voice my lap while we watched Barney for the 67th protesting my daughter’s behaviour. time in a row. Somehow, I had lost interest I know that my girls don’t have a problem in what Baby Bop was singing about and fell remembering the things they did that got them sound asleep. reprimanded. Maddy still talks about the day I’m not sure how long I was out but it was long that she turned Daddy into Barney. My oldest enough for Maddy to colour several pages of her daughter Taylor just reminded me about the time Barney colouring book on my lap. Suddenly, I had that she pulled Mom’s skirt up in the crowded that sinking feeling that something was wrong. It bank line. took me several seconds to regain consciousness Humourous as these stories are, they represent and deduce that Maddy had coloured all over my a sad truth. As humans, many of us are prone to white shirt. notice and remember when we make mistakes “Maddy!” I shouted in protest. “Look at what more so than when we do you’ve done!” something positive. Maddy looked me over, In the same smiled and stated “Whenever we focus way, as parents, confidently “I made you it’s easy to get Barney.” on negative things, we will trapped into Rolling my eyes, I find evidence to support focusing on our quickly forgave Maddy our view.” child’s mistakes. for her artistic liberties Instead of getting and we continued good reports, many kids playing. Over the next few are faced with the tradition hours, Maddy would occasionally of listening to their errors recounted when Dad look in my direction and say, “Barney.” I would comes home from work. abruptly explain that we needed a break from Certainly we mean well. After all, it’s our watching Barney. job to train our children to understand Finally I walked past a mirror and realized the difference between right and wrong. why Maddy was calling me Barney. While I was I realize that in my haste to teach my girls sleeping she had taken a purple marker and had responsibility, manners, how to share, and a coloured on my face. Sadly, my worst nightmare host of other things, I sometimes err on the had come true. I had become Barney! side of focusing on their faults. As parents, we could fill up a book about the The problem is that whenever we focus on crazy things that our children do. Very few hours, negative things or have negative beliefs about if not minutes, go by without our kids doing someone, we will find evidence to support our something we don’t like. by Dr. Greg Smalley
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view. This is called confirmation bias. In other words, we try to confirm what we believe about someone (positive or negative). If we are constantly focused on our child’s poor behaviour, we will start to view him or her through a negative lens. We will begin to expect that kind of behaviour. Sadly, when this happens people tend to live up to or down to our expectations. One of the greatest gifts you can give your children is to methodically notice what they do right on a daily basis. Marital researchers have discovered that when distressed couples began recording what the other mate did that was positive, the couple reported a substantial increase in their marital satisfaction. In the same way, make it a point to mentally record what your child does that is positive.
I encourage you to share that with them before they go to bed. Imagine the positive effect on your children when the last word they hear that day is what they did right. Essentially it’s the same message that Paul encouraged the early Christians to do: “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). Article courtesy Dr. Greg Smalley, Smalley Relationship Centre. For more information, visit www.smalley.cc.
10
Living Light News - September/October 2014
Wellness
Coffee or Tea
– Which Is Better For Me?
by Beth Rence Reinke Which do you crave in the morning — a cup of java or a spot of tea? Popular belief labels tea as a health drink and coffee as bad. Mounting evidence suggests both are good for you because they’re brimming with antioxidants.
What are antioxidants? Antioxidants are phytochemicals — chemicals found in plant foods. Antioxidants protect healthy tissues from free radicals that can damage cells over time and cause disease. Antioxidants are like microscopic police officers who seize those little bad guys set on harming our cells.
What’s sweet about tea?
Tea leaves come from an evergreen plant called Camellia sinensis and contain antioxidants called flavonoids. Research shows tea drinkers take in 20 times more antioxidants than tea nondrinkers. In Canada, only water and coffee are consumed more than tea.
What are the health benefits of tea?
Health Canada only officially sanctions three basic health claims for tea: that it has
antioxidants, increases alertness and may have cardiovascular benefits. Laboratory studies using tea and tea extracts show additional promising results. A type of flavonoid in green tea called epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, may fight cancer and ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Other studies suggest tea — both black and green — may reduce cholesterol levels, slow tumour growth, lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and even fight inflammation and seasonal allergies.
Which kind of tea is best?
Most herbal teas are not tea at all. They’re made with roots, flowers, herbs or spices and contain no tea leaves and therefore no tea flavonoids. Researchers say green tea has more antioxidants because the leaves are less processed, but some people don’t like its unique flavour. Since both black and green teas are antioxidant-rich, drink the kind you like best.
What’s the scoop on coffee?
Canadian java drinkers down an average of 2.8 cups of the aromatic brew per day, just under the
Mounting evidence suggests are good for you.
both
three cups per day limit on brewed, caffeinated coffee recommended by Health Canada. Research suggests coffee may lower the risk of cancers such as oral, endometrial, colon and prostate and help prevent gout, type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. In the past, there was concern about whether or not coffee raises the risk of heart disease, but newer research shows coffee drinking may inhibit inflammation and therefore lower heart disease risk. The caffeine content of coffee can be an issue for some people. If you have heart disease, stick with a decaffeinated brew or discuss coffee and caffeine intake with your doctor.
Speaking of caffeine ...
Canadians get about 60 percent of their caffeine intake from coffee and 30 percent from tea, according to the Dietitians of Canada. Caffeine content varies depending on what kind is used and how long tea is steeped. An eight-ounce cup of brewed coffee can have 75 to 200 milligrams of caffeine compared to 30 to 80 milligrams in a cup of hot tea. Caffeine stimulates the brain and nervous system to cause that pick-me-up feeling, but should be limited to avoid symptoms such as
headaches, jitteriness and sleeplessness. Health Canada suggests limiting caffeine to no more than 400 milligrams per day for most healthy adults. Research links caffeine consumption with possible increased risk of miscarriage, so if you’re pregnant, stick to decaf beverages and talk to your doctor about caffeine.
A word of caution
Plain coffee and tea are healthful, calorie-free beverages, but be careful how many “add-ins” you dump into your cup. Just a tablespoon of cream and two teaspoons of sugar can add 80 calories and six grams of fat. Squirt in flavoured syrup, pile on whipped cream, and your oncehealthful drink becomes a rich dessert.
Which is better — coffee or tea?
Science can’t really say yet, so fill your mug with whichever you like. Choosing organic coffee or tea will lessen your exposure to harmful pesticide residues. To benefit from both sets of antioxidants, drink one or two cups of coffee in the morning, then enjoy decaf tea throughout the day. Bottoms up!
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
Lifestyles
Savouring by Lynetta Smith
photo courtesy Mandy Hale
Think being single is about waiting for life to begin? Not according to Mandy Hale. The Nashville, TN native, also known as The Single Woman, wants to empower single women to live with passion and adventure in a world where they sometimes don’t fit in. “Single women are a force to be reckoned with and I think the world doesn’t really know what to do with us,” she says. Mandy is a blogger and author of two books, The Single Woman: Life, Love And A Dash Of Sass and I’ve Never Been To Vegas … But My Luggage Has. With courage and humour, Mandy conveys the lessons she’s learned to help
Mandy Hale, a.k.a. The Single Woman, inspires single women to live with purpose
the
Single Life
blessing to these women,” she says of her growing influence. Mandy put her trust in Jesus as a young adult after reluctantly accepting her mother’s invitation to church. She quickly realized she needed Jesus to be her Saviour. Soon after, she asked to be baptized, making her decision public. At this church, a visiting pastor named Dan spoke a prophecy over her. “I see you speaking into the lives of many young women,” he told her. At the time she had no idea how that would happen. Though she fumbled at times, her devotion to Christ didn’t waver. She said, “I very much wandered off the path when I fell into that abusive relationship, but through it all I considered myself someone who loved Jesus very deeply.” Mandy believes Jesus guided her back into healthy relationships. “I think our tendency is to run from Him during times like that and He’s actually saying, ‘Hey, come run to Me. I’m still here. I want to turn around this brokenness and turn it into something beautiful. You just have to be willing to hand Me all the pieces.’ ” In Mandy’s case, her ashes-to-beauty transformation resulted in a thriving ministry where God allowed her to serve Him with her immense passion for writing. Though it’s hard work, she continues to allow Jesus full reign. “If I feel like I’m getting – as we say in the South – too big for my britches, I just always go back to God and say, ‘This is Yours. I’m surrendering it to You, so whatever direction You want to take it, even if that means The Single Woman goes away tomorrow, I’m just trusting You.’ ” “...I think the world Mandy’s blog and social media posts are doesn’t really know reflections of her own journey with Jesus. “The feedback from my readers is completely what to do with us.” amazing and it never fails to blow my mind that something I’ll tweet will resonate with someone, sometimes on the other side of the world, and it’s the exact situation they’re going through.” “People will reach out to me via Twitter or email and say ‘Can you pray for me?’ and of course I always do.” Mandy sees praying for her readers as a way to stay connected with them. “It’s comforting to be able to log onto Twitter or Facebook and see that someone else is experiencing the same journey as you – other women who are going out on these endless bad dates or going through break-ups or losing jobs or whatever else they’re struggling with.” As a speaker to thousands, she’s now living out the words of prophecy Pastor Dan spoke long ago. For her next appearance, she is scheduled as a speaker in T.D. Jakes’ “Woman Thou Art Loosed” conference in Atlanta, Ga. Oct. 2-4. Mandy’s goal is to empower single women to live courageously and inspire others to do the same. “A big part of my message is encouraging women to realize their story is powerful,” she says, “to be brave and shout it from the rooftops, because there’s someone who needs to hear it.”
others follow Jesus with passion and courage. Inspiration for starting her work came after ending an abusive relationship with a man. On a trip to her friend’s wedding, she realized she was “settling for rocks when God wanted to bring [her] diamonds,” so after returning home, she announced that it was over. A slow path to healing involved a lot of praying and some professional counselling. Eventually, she discovered that she was free to be the person God made her to be. Living the single life she wanted didn’t come naturally, though. “Since I couldn’t find the sassy, confident, independent, inspired single role model I was looking for,” she thought, “maybe I could become her.” As she prayed for a platform to share her message, she came across an ad to write for Examiner, an online newspaper. Soon after, she was hired as the Single Woman columnist. Now she has over a million followers on social media, and in 2012 was even featured on Oprah’s LifeClass Tour. “I’m amazed and humbled and just honoured to be a
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
Sights&Sounds
by Teresa Lockhart
Most music fans might guess the E in drumming diva Sheila’s E.’s stage name originates from Escovedo, the surname handed down from her family of acclaimed musicians. However, a closer look into her life suggests the E also stands for “endurance.” Despite having to overcome tremendous obstacles, the Latin jazz legend not only survives, she thrives. The Grammy-nominated artist has risen to the top — in five-inch stilletos — in a career dominated by males despite battling illness, extreme fatigue, and childhood abuse. All the credit, she says, goes to God. Ever since Sheila became a Christian, God has set the tempo for her life, and she has followed His beat. A world-class percussionist, she has performed with top names that span the spectrum of music genres — Ringo Starr, Marvin Gaye, Beyoncé, Carlos Santana, and Gloria Estefan, to name a few. She’s also famously known as Prince’s protege, musical director of his hugely successful Lovesexy Tour, and collaborating on his hit album Purple Rain that has sold over 20 million copies to date. Unfortunately, the passion that elevated her to stardom almost cost Sheila E. her career and her life. It was during the low points she looked up to find her strength. Although raised in a religious family, she never had a personal relationship with Jesus until she was 18. She was fully immersed in the music world, touring with George Duke’s band and trying to balance the stress that comes with a nonstop touring schedule. One of the singers in the band was driving her to a meeting when she broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the stress. The singer told her everything would be fine if she just gave her life to the Lord. Sheila E. couldn’t believe it was that easy, but she relented. “We prayed in the car,” she tells Christianity.com. “I went into the meeting, and she came back and picked me up. I actually felt better, relieved, and we just talked.” Though she began her relationship with God that day, she had to learn to
focus her eyes on Jesus, and not on people who professed to be Christians but didn’t live the life. Relationship trumped religion when she drew close to Jesus on a personal level. Despite the glamourous facade of touring with Prince, she felt conflicted and exhausted by the excessive lifestyle. After touring in Japan left her depleted both mentally and physically, she sought help and turned to acupuncture. During the procedure, her lung was punctured and ended up 80 percent collapsed. She was fortunate to be alive. The experience made her realize she was far from invincible, so she cried out to God. “I’m not in control,” she prayed. “Lord, please help me. What am I going to do?” At first her condition continued to decline. Her medication made her very sick, her weight dropping to 85 pounds. Then her back went out, and she couldn’t walk. She was temporarily paralyzed. Her body shut down. All she had left was her faith, so she prayed again. “You know what, Lord?” she pleaded. “If you give me another chance, I’ll do whatever you want me to do.” Sheila E. reached for her Bible and read it constantly, sleeping with it on her chest and never taking it out of her hand for weeks. After being holed up for a month in her apartment, she finally found the strength and courage to step outside. It was like experiencing everything for the first time. The beauty around her made her realize all the things she had been missing. Once again she talked with God. “Lord, look at all these wonderful things you’ve given us that we just take for granted,” she confessed. “I thought that I needed this, and I thought that I needed that, but I only need You.” That was the turning point. Sheila E. joined an in-depth Bible study, and discovered she had been repressing deep hurts she endured as a child. Though her parents never knew, Sheila E. had been raped at age five by a baby sitter and molested by cousins and neighbours. Once she faced the pain she had kept hidden, God gave her the strength she needed to turn the tragedy around.
photo courtesy Sheila E.
Marching to a Different Beat
Today she is an advocate for children who have been abandoned and abused. Founded by Sheila E. and her manager Lynn Mabry, Elevate Hope Foundation, provides children the healing power of music through both music and art therapy. “I shared my testimony because it set me free,” she says. “There is help, and you don’t have to let the abuse take control of your life.” Sheila E. shares more of her story in her upcoming autobiography, titled The Beat Of My Own Drum, set for release in September. While writing her memoir, she realized that some of the stories could also be songs, so she recorded an album toward the end of writing her book. Appropriately titled Icon, the album features her percussion and vocal work along with old friend Prince, who contributed both piano and vocals on the song “Leader of the Band.” However, the most noticeable credit in the album’s liner notes is for the “executive producer” — God. “Why I say ‘God’ is because without Him, I am I am nothing. All things are possible through Christ,” she tells The Quietus. “I thought I was in control, but once I got sick … I found out that was not the case. “The gift that He had given me, which was music and art, and the ability to go around and share that, I don’t take that for granted. I give Him all the glory and the praise. I can’t take credit for what He has given me.”
“I shared my testimony because it set me free.”
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
COLTON DIXON Anchor coltondixonmusic.com Review by Matt Conner Colton Dixon first made waves as the dynamic Christian finalist on American Idol’s season 11, and the momentum carried into his career as a major label artist. A Messenger, Colton’s first release, set a record for the greatest firstweek sales by a new solo Christian act and positioned him as one of the brightest young artists in Christian music. His latest, Anchor, only solidifies that standing. Anchor is amped up from the outset after a short intro with “Our Time Is Now,” a pulsing synth-rock track that might surprise many fans. It’s a pleasant shock, however, as Dixon expands his repertoire a bit with the up-tempo number, and the song should turn into a stellar live offering. Front to back, the album is packed with diverse songs and with 14 total tracks, fans will definitely get their money’s worth. “More Of You” is the pinnacle and new single that builds on the message of John the Baptist, who concerning Jesus, said “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). “More Of You” showcases not only Dixon’s heart for God but his gift for crafting memorable melodies. “Walk On Waves” features Dixon’s great tenor vocal and is another high point. Dixon is a man on fire, not only with a rare spiritual fervor and focus but with strong commercial appeal as well. He’ll only burn brighter this year after the release of Anchor. JONAS PARK & DAVID BOLLMANN Forward ihopkc.org Review by Josh McConnell Sometimes independent musicians are the ones who surprise you the most. Free from the pressures of label executives, radio station managers and others that would otherwise stand in the way, the indie artist can focus on one thing: their craft. Worship leader Jonas Park penned songs that have become anthems at Kansas City’s International House of Prayer, while his friend David Bollmann is in an independent band of his own. Together they collaborated to make Forward, a six-song EP that injects a little more originality into a worship record. With a strong Brit-rock influence, songs often straddle the line between Coldplay and Gotye. “I Remember,” “Nearness” and “All My Hope” have a bit of a military-esque flavour to the drums, while other tunes have heavier electronica influences to the keyboards. The higher-range vocals even dip into Mat Kearney territory at times, rounding out the eclectic audible package. While some lyrics may get a little repetitive on a couple of tracks, Forward is a solid worship effort that’s refreshingly artistic – a rare gem. Featuring all new material inspired by Philippians 3:14, the songs encourage listeners to forget the past and press forward towards the prize. Fans of the genre should pick this one up. LECRAE Anomaly lecrae.com Review by Matt Conner With Lecrae, there are always three elements in play: the heart, the heat, and the hook. The hiphop artist has been no-holds-barred when it comes to his public commitment to the Gospel, but it’s always included a heat, a prophetic edge that sets it apart from his contemporaries and lends him
JukeBox both credibility and power where others perhaps falter. All three of these elements are firmly entrenched on his latest masterwork, Anomaly. Not only does Anomaly pack high heat, but Lecrae’s incredible hooks and heart are front and centre as well. He tells the truth without apology, but it’s always out of a deep, deep love for the world as God intended. On “Nuthin’, ” the lead single from Anomaly, Lecrae spits rhymes about empty hip-hop talk over a bass-heavy groove. He implores fellow rappers with, “I know you gonna label me a hater, but inside you are greater than the songs you creating.” The trend continues on the insightful “Welcome to America,” the noteworthy “Outsiders,” and the vulnerable “Fear.” There’s no topic out of Lecrae’s reach, including his own insecurities or America’s issues. It’s a mix that works because Lecrae’s pillars are always in place. Be it broader social ills or personal confessions, Lecrae has earned more than enough credibility for the listener. LINDSAY MCCAUL One More Step lindsaymccaul.com Review by Lindsay Williams With only two full-length projects to her credit, Lindsay McCaul shows strength, poise and depth, thanks to poignant and thoughtful lyrics. While McCaul’s debut, If It Leads Me Back, was a highly under-appreciated release, her sophomore effort, One More Step, offers listeners a second chance to discover her talent. One More Step, is a much more pop-heavy offering than her first outing. Lead track “Empty Handed” sets the tone for an upbeat set list, revealing McCaul’s knack for writing. The ballad “Jesus Be” is filled with lush instrumentation that complements McCaul’s soothing alto and descriptive lyrics that beautifully capture the multifaceted character of Christ. The singer-songwriter joins Brandon Heath in “With The Brokenhearted” on a truth-filled duet. In the acoustic, ukelele-driven “Mess Like Me” McCaul is like a bestfriend wearing her heart on her sleeve, while poignant single “Rules The World” serves as a reminder of ultimate surrender. The best cut on the album is the tear-inducing title track. With vivid storytelling, McCaul paints three real-life scenes – her first steps, her wedding day and her father’s deathbed. The song honours her dad, who passed away two years ago. McCaul’s bittersweet story of love and loss is something listeners can instantly relate to. The songs on One More Step should be savoured, cherished and fully soaked in. Do yourself a favour, and don’t miss Lindsay McCaul this time. She’s an artist worthy of your attention. THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH Oxygen: Inhale thousandfootkrutch.com Review by Josh McConnell It has been 17 years since Thousand Foot Krutch hit the scene and the group doesn’t show any sign of slowing down. In their second independent release, the trio is continuing to play around with different influences while enjoying significant crossover success. Sure, the 10-track album, titled Oxygen:Inhale, still has the heavily distorted guitars, occasional guttural vocals and fist-pumping rock anthems, but there are plenty of tender moments as well. With its catchy lyrics and the use of clapping as a kick drum substitute, “Untraveled Road” has that fun and melodic Linkin Park vibe. “In My Room” is a keyboard-driven, introspective
17
ballad – of all the songs in the album, this tops the list in wellexecuted progression. Though the disc’s second half is toned down considerably in pace, the first half has enough upbeat tracks to keep the core fan base happy. While the lyrics may still be on the simpler side with repetitive choruses, TFK’s musical evolution is a welcomed change that will open the group to a wider audience. Oxygen:Inhale is enjoyable, accessible and definitely worth your time. FAMILY FORCE 5 Time Stands Still familyforce5.com Review by Lindsay Williams The Force returns with their fourth studio album, Time Stands Still, featuring a new front man and a new label. When longtime lead singer Solomon Olds stepped down from the band last summer, Family Force 5 decided to extend the party, and on Time Stands Still, they take it to the next level. The album serves up large helpings of quirkiness, pop culture references and bold electronic beats the band has become known for. Yet, Time Stands Still feels more melodic, driven by stronger pop sensibilities than ever before. For the first time, Family Force 5 gives fans not just one but multiple radio-friendly cuts, like the celebratory “Let It Be Love,” currently spinning at AC radio, and the singable “When Everything’s Changing.” The quintet even moves into worship terrain with pulsing track “Walk on Water,” featuring vocals from Hillsong Young & Free’s Melodie Wagner and the anthemic “Never Say Never.” Moreover, there seems to be a little more intention to the lyrics. The title track proves head-bop worthy with its throwback vibe. Meanwhile, the same retro sensibilities round out fitting upbeat closer “This Is My Year.” Although Times Stands Still often feels like a departure for the band, there’s still plenty of their trademark sound to go around. The frenetic sights and sounds all mesh into one tight 15-track mixtape that brings the fun and pushes the limits. COLONY HOUSE When I Was Younger colonyhousemusic.com Review by Lindsay Williams When I Was Younger, the debut from alternative pop/ rock trio Colony House, may be one of the biggest surprises of the year. The Franklin, Tenn.-based outfit comprised of brothers Caleb and Will Chapman (the sons of Grammy winning artist Steven Curtis Chapman) and friend Scott Mills present a debut both profound in its lyrics and mature in its musicality. The album’s 14 tracks are primed with catchy hooks and captivating content, the lyrics carefully crafted to convey human emotions – joy, pain, grief, sorrow, compassion and, ultimately, hope. It won’t be long before fans will be hearing Colony House everywhere. Lead single “Silhouettes” gives listeners a glimpse into Colony House’s ingenious brand of catchy pop that’s equal parts melodic and thoughtful. “Caught Me By Surprise,” reveals the band musing on life’s twists and turns. “Roll With The Punches” follows with an insatiable chorus and the subtle voices of a group of rowdy kids. The atmospheric pop – a mix of Coldplay and Cold War Kids – is a stark contrast to the intensity of the story behind the lyrics – undoubtedly born from real life as the record was written following the tragic death of the Chapman brothers’ sister. Without ignoring the hard questions, hope is never far from reach in this album. Perhaps that’s what makes this album so incredibly refreshing. Despite all the wrestling in our hearts that these songs so beautifully acknowledge, Colony House reminds us there is always hope.
SOMETIMES IT’S THE RIGHT SONG AT THE RIGHT TIME. Safe & Fun for the Whole Family!
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18
Living Light News - September/October 2014
Cover to Cover I’VE NEVER BEEN TO VEGAS BUT MY LUGGAGE HAS
KILLING LIONS
MINDWAR
If you’ve ever thought, “The single life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be,” then be prepared to be cracked up by I’ve Never Been to Vegas But My Luggage Has, a hilarious and sometimes heartwrenching memoir. Blogger and author Mandy Hale reveals how she came to be The Single Woman, including her pastor’s long-ago prophecy that she’d speak into the lives of many young women. Today she reaches half a million. Mandy’s story begins with her memory of a short-lived flight to Las Vegas for her assistant producer job at Country Music Television. Her plane had to return to the gate before they lifted off from Nashville after she had a severe panic attack. “I got on a plane to arrive at the undeniable conclusion that the journey is, in fact, the destination,” she says. Her book contains poignant lessons learned as a young journalist just out of college. Her dreams of a television career are punctuated with hilarious anecdotes of trip-ups, mishaps, and adventures. So are the dating experiences that led her to become The Single Woman. Her life, she believes, is nothing short of a miracle. From that ill-fated flight to her experiences as a member of Oprah’s VIP press corps, Mandy learned to trust God during some amazing opportunities. Single women will be encouraged and empowered by Mandy’s message: through all the mix-ups, mayhem, and messiness of life, God is making a miracle – you!
New York Times bestselling author John Eldredge and his son Sam invite readers into an intimate fatherson conversation in their new book Killing Lions: A Guide Through The Trials Young Men Face. The two Eldredge men’s close relationship is evident as they open up about issues that matter to men – from dealing with life’s perplexing crossroads and finding one’s identity, to understanding love, sex and women. The book also includes a daily prayer and a prayer for sexual healing. One conversation touches on the younger Eldredge’s ongoing faith journey – from being raised in a Christian household, to momentarily “slipping into agnosticism” and finally re-affirming his belief in God while grappling with some difficult questions – a common issue among young men who are exploring their own beliefs and worldview. Borne out of weekly phone calls, their back and forth dialogue is a thought-provoking exchange. The Wild At Heart author offers guidance based on experiences grounded in his deep faith in God. It’s refreshing to see a father giving sound advice that supports and tempers – instead of squelching – his son’s exuberance, passion and idealism. While the book is especially geared to young men looking for answers to many of life’s questions, it is filled with insight and knowledge that’s enriching to anyone – male or female. Grab a cup of coffee and pick this one up!
MindWar is the latest novel by prolific author Andrew Klavan. The two-time Edgar Award-winning mystery writer delivers an exciting mix of action and suspense set in a futuristic fantasy. The protagonist Rick Dial is a star college quarterback with big league potential, a budding romance and the kind of bright future that every young person dreams about. That is until a series of events turns his world upside down leaving his body battered, his hopes shattered, and his heart bitter. Disillusioned, young Rick seeks refuge from his suddenly harsh reality in the makebelieve world of computer games. There, he regains his star status as an elite warrior, winning battle after battle against cyber enemies, and attracting interest from a group that wants to recruit him to fight Kurodar, who is plotting to destroy their world, the Realm, and all of its inhabitants. Rick rises to the challenge and soon finds himself in the fight of his life against Kurodar and his dark armies. The storyline parallels much of human experience including hardship, heartache, and the need for hope. Klavan carefully wraps the suffering in the Saviours’ plan of redemption, restoration, and reconciliation. When all seems lost, Rick receives a second chance and an opportunity to re-build his character, his confidence, and his condition by applying Biblical principles. Mindwar is entertaining and encouraging. It relates well to the spiritual war against evil that all people face, and the very real Saviour who brings the hope that everybody needs.
Reviewed by Lynetta Smith
Reviewed by Lailani Mendoza
Reviewed by Kevin Antpoehler
by John & Sam Eldredge
by Mandy Hale
Peter Goldring
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The Person Called You – Why You’re Here, Why You Matter & What You Should Do With Your Life may be a long title but it is certainly intriguing. It is a topic that is on everyone’s mind at some point. Author Bill Hendricks invites readers to explore what their unique “giftedness” might be – to consider their passion in life as it relates to their career. He believes everyone is designed to do something specific they love so much, they’d do it for free; however, he recommends accepting the paycheque! Hendricks’ approach is as relevant to a new graduate as to a middle-aged worker. Readers are not guaranteed a specific answer, but thought-provoking exercises are included to guide them closer to God’s plan for their lives. The author also delves into reasons people fail to fulfill their God-given calling. Fear, isolation, traps are a few possible causes on Hendricks’ list. While his writing style is a bit didactic it’s never judgmental. He shares many real-life examples from his own clients who visit his consulting firm which provides individual career guidance. This provides a warmth and appeal that make the pages resonate with the reader. Hendricks encourages his readers to seek out a team of people to support them personally and professionally – people who will affirm and offer accountability. The book is full of helpful information that could help individuals flourish as the unique people they’re created to be! Reviewed by Miriam Leslie
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
You Think I’m Harmless? Think They say a dog is man’s best friend, and Sheena Kavanagh certainly believed it. In fact, the 53-year-old animal lover owned three dogs: two Yorkshire Terriers and a Jack Russell. No one imagined an affectionate lick on the hand from one of her beloved pets would end her life. Kavanagh’s spleen, the organ that prevents infection, was removed years ago leaving her susceptible to infection. She died from septic shock. Kavanagh’s death flies in the face of World Health Organization’s findings which say people in Canada can expect to live until they’re 80 on average. Consider the string of bizarre deaths in the news lately. A husband and wife vacationing in Portugal plunged to their death while taking a selfie on the edge of a cliff. Or the father and daughter swimming at the beach in Florida who were struck and killed by a plane. How about the young man in his 20s who died from a lightning strike in
California, or the three young siblings killed in Philadelphia when a car plowed through their fruit stand? Then there was the 51-year-old Quebec mayor who died when she was attacked by wasps after accidenally stepping on a nest. And in Finland, a man keeled over from a heart attack in the middle of a chess tournament. It’s true, you never know when your time is up. While our lifespan may end up being longer – or shorter – than average, one thing is certain: every person will definitely face death at some point. At funerals you often hear, “He’s in a better place now.” It’s comforting, but is it true? Most think so. Sadly, while many people feel they’ve lived a “good life,” according to the Bible that won’t cut it when it comes to securing a spot in heaven. The apostle Paul emphasized this point: “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” (Romans 3:23). Just about everybody figures their “good” deeds outweigh their bad, which should qualify
19
Again!
them for heaven. But did you know that because a holy God cannot tolerate sin, one bad deed – even something as commonplace as lying – keeps someone from entering heaven? “We are all infected and impure with sin. When we display our righteous deeds, they are nothing but filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). Though God hates sin, He longs to rescue sinners. Through His great mercy, He has made a way for you to know your eternal destination – should you get hit by a Mac truck. And the Bible lays it all out. Knowing it’s impossible for us to erase our sins, God made a way for anyone to have a totally clean slate – at a tremendous price. He sent His Son Jesus Christ, the sinless one, to pay the punishment for man’s sin, which was death on a cross (John 3:16). On the third day, Jesus rose again (1 Corinthians 15:4) proving He is God. His great sacrifice paid the penalty for sin in full. His blood shed on the cross offers forgiveness and eternal life to anyone who receives Him. Romans 10:9 says “If
you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” The apostle John said “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life. I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life” (1 John 5:12-13). Don’t wait until it’s too late. Nobody knows when or how their life will end. “Just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people” (Hebrews 9: 27-28). Do you want this assurance? Pray this prayer from your heart. Dear Lord Jesus, I confess that I am a sinner. Please forgive me for all the wrong things I have done. Thank you for dying on a cross for me so that my sins may be forgiven and that I may have eternal life with You. I invite you to come into my heart and be my Master. Help me to live this life for You from this moment on. In Your name I pray, Amen.
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
20
Getaways
o T e m o Welc
! n o d Lon
by Sarah Chestnutt There’s no place like home. But when those four walls start closing in, it’s time to get away. Sure, beaches are nice and the wilderness has cute little animals, but there’s no place quite like jolly ole England. And if you’re flying that far, the place to go is London. You’ll likely land at one of England’s two largest airports: Heathrow or Gatwick. Once you’ve arrived, getting around is a breeze. Hail an iconic black taxi (even if just for the photo op). Take the Underground, known as the Tube, but don’t forget to “Mind The Gap” as you get on. Consider the Original London Sightseeing Tour to get around the city on a double-decker bus. With a 24-hour pass for three routes and 80 stops (and a cruise on the River Thames), you can set your own schedule. The exchange rate isn’t too favourable, so keeping things affordable is a priority. Visit cheaphotels.com for great deals. Want something homier? Check out airbnb.ca for Londoners renting out places. You can find entire apartments or homes for less than $150/night. There’s no shortage of iconic landmarks. And while you don’t want to leave without seeing Buckingham Palace, make your trip memorable with unique attractions. Stroll along the South Bank of the River Thames to hit up many of the big draws. You’ll pass Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower Bridge. You’ll also find the London Eye — Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel. Since opening in March 2000, it has offered views from 135 metres high. Get a discount by booking online. Prefer stationary viewpoints? Try The View From The Shard. From the 69th and 72nd floor of the E.U.’s tallest
SUPPLYING & INSTALLING:
an attraction, visit Harrods. While checking out watches worth over $100,000, you’ll discover the prices match the extravagance — but it’s a fantastic place to window shop. Splurge and treat yourself to high tea, or stay into the evening to watch the sevenfloor exterior light up like Christmas. If you’re hitting lots of touristy spots, consider the London Pass. It includes attraction entries, public transport, and shopping and dining discounts. Sure, it’s a big trip and expenses may climb if you’re not careful. But the smiles on your family’s faces on the plane ride home make it worth every cent (or pence).
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skyscraper, you’ll see for miles. While you’re up there, plan your route to the Tate Museum for the latest modern art (free admission) and to the Imperial War Museum, newly re-opened after a $74-million renovation. Shake things up in the earthquake room, or see how you measure up to a life-sized blue whale hanging at the Natural History Museum. Entry is free, though some exhibits have fees. Little Venice is a picturesque spot full of narrowboats. Take the 100-year-old boat on Jason’s Boat Trip for a 45-minute tour along the canal. Release your inner detective with TripAdvisor’s No.1 attraction clueQuest. A live escape game, you’ll have to solve the mysteries to escape a locked room. Check out a cricket game at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Watch England take on San Marino on Oct. 9 at the famous Wembley Stadium — but don’t forget they call it football. In the mood for NFL football? There are three games (Sept. 28, Oct. 26, and Nov. 9) playing at Wembley. Score tickets through Ticketmaster. Class things up at the theatre. Les Miserables is on stage at Queen’s Theatre and War Horse is on at New London Theatre. Try for a matinee for cheaper tickets. Working up an appetite goes without saying. Get hearty meals at the local pub and local sandwich shops offer great deals, but definitely find a family-run chippy. After all, who goes to London without feasting on fish and chips? For souvenirs, stick to smaller stores off the beaten track for the best deals, but there are some places you just can’t walk by. For a shopping experience that might as well be called
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Living Light News - September/October 2014
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22
Living Light News - September/October 2014
Church YourDirectory
Sunday Service @ 10:15am
Church Neighbours. .
invite you to visit them this weekend!
“Where you can feel at home and cared for, living in His Presence.”
passionate, generational, God - centered worship and preaching
Fort Saskatchewan Life Church #111, 10421-99 Ave Fort Saskatchewan 780-992-9673 www.fslifechurch.ca
Global
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Sunday Worship at 10:00 am
Church
Sunday Children Education (Pre-K to Grade 6) 10:15 am
Pastors Steve & Carmen Lynne
Wednesday 6:45pm - Children and Youth Worship and Teaching
Family Service: - Sundays at 9:30 a.m. / 11:00 a.m. at 205 Main Street, Spruce Grove - Sunday Evening Service at 6 p.m. at 13931 - 140St., Edmonton
• Parenting Class • International Friendship Club • Divorce Care
B A P T I S T
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C H U R C H
9333-199 St. • Edmonton • 780-451-3881 www.westmeadows.org Pastor Kevin Schular
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“Where you can Begin, Believe and Belong!” DIVERSITY WITH ONE HEART, ONE VOICE, ONE PASSION
Lutheran Church
EMMAUS WAY EMMAUS LUTHERAN CHURCH
Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. Sunday School & Bible Study 11:30 a.m. Pastor Forrest Stroup 4638 - 117 Ave. 780-477-2894
Welcomes you to visit our Spirit led, Bible based and family oriented congregation.
5015-144 Ave., Edmonton
Contemporary Worship, Sunday School, Youth Corner Sundays at 11:00 AM
780-478-8697
Pastor Glen Carlson
CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
A Grace Communion International Congregation
Service – Sunday @ 10am Children’s Ministry – 2-12 yrs (supervised nursery) 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.”
Come Celebrate Christ! Worship Service Saturday, 11:00 am
780-905-1124 http://edmonton.wcgweb.org
Pastor Bob Millman
Congregation
A Church with a Heart - In the Heart of the City
12404 - 140 Avenue
W O R S H I P W I T H U S AT
Beit Mashiach
Contemporary, Charismatic, Caring
Shabbat Service
780-424-6422
Saturday 10:30 am
Yeshiva (Bible Study) Wednesday 7:00 pm
( North Edmonton )
10162 152nd Street
Edmonton Family Worship Centre
We are a Torah observant community endeavouring to walk in the fullness of the Jewish roots and heritage of our biblical faith.
Messianic Pastor: Andrew Ketel 780-901-5859
www.beitmashiach.com
10605-96 St. Sundays 10:30 am www.efwc.org
First Christian Church (Disciples)
Meeting: Sat. @ 6pm 10105 - 153 St
13407-97 St. Edmonton
Pastors: Mark & Sherry Adams Gord & Dawn Hancock 780-483-2665 www.fusionfellowship.ca
IT’S A PLACE FOR YOU!
Grace
10405 - 142 St. 780-454-3463 * We invite you to join us! * Morning Worship@ 10:45 * www.faithcom.ca
Sunday Services Bible Study: 10am Worship: 11am Sunday School:11:15am
780-476-5238
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
P
We welcome you!
P
with Christ Journey Church the
( 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
Sunday Worship
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
Calvary
Baptist Church “A Caring Community”
7215 - 97 St. Edmonton, AB Sunday 9 am & 11am
9:45am - Coffee & Conversation 10:30 - Contemporary Worship 5940-159 Ave, Edmonton 780-454-1936 info@centrepointechurch.ca www.centrepointechurch.ca
watch over your coming and going
Sunday Services: 9:15 am & 10:45 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
Walk in Victory!
Promised Land Ministries Deliverance & Healing Centre
12145-67 St. NW Edmonton, AB
780-944-0526 www.jesusdelivers.com
Living Light News - September/October 2014
EventsCalendar Special Events Sandpiper Golf Fundraiser Sept. 6, Sandpiper Golf and Country Club, 26029 Meadowview Dr., Sturgeon County. All proceeds will be used for technology upgrades at Edm. Christian Schools. Cost: $160, incl. Texas scramble, lunch & dinner, and a $60 donation receipt. Register online at edmchristian.org or call 780-476-6281. World Compassion Banquet Sept. 11, 7 p.m., Edmonton DoubleTree Hotel, 16615-109 Ave., Edm. Dr. Terry Law has been living out his calling for 45 years ministering to nations that are closed to the Gospel. This is an annual fundraiser; no charge for the banquet. To register, visit worldcompassion.tv. Tom Ness Memorial Golf Tournament Sept. 14, starts 1:30 p.m., Fort
Saskatchewan Golf Course. Texas scramble, nine holes. Sponsored by Fort Saskatchewan Alliance. For more info, contact Garth at 780910-8073.
Christians United For Israel Sept. 14, 7 p.m., Beth Israel Synagogue, 131 Wolf Willow Rd., Edm. (one block east of 170 St. and 69 Ave.) Featuring Pastor Scott Thomas, one of the world’s top pro-Israel Christian speakers. Phone Peter at 780-243-7000, or visit cufi.org. Corn Maze Youth Kickoff Sept. 20, Northgate Baptist, 13208-95 St., Edm. Meet at the church at 6 p.m. Cost: $10. All participants must have either a 2014/15 Family Registration form or an event waiver handed in. Contact Pastor Nathan 780-4765855 for more info. Joy Starts Here Oct. 3-4, Bethel Christian
Reformed Church, 14204-25 St., Edm. Cost: Fri. night only: $15, Fri. and Sat.: $70 (not incl. lunch). Learn practical skills and strategies for building joy in your life. For more info, or to register, visit joystartshere.com/canada.
Laugh For Life Oct. 25, 7 p.m., Winspear Centre, 9720-102 Ave., Edm. This is a fundraiser for the Mustard Seed and Kid’s Kottage, featuring standup comedians Tim Hawkins and John Branyan, and local performance painter Lewis Lavoie. Tickets: $57.50-$79.50 (+ service charge), available at winspearcentre.com. Edmonton Burn Oct. 30-Nov. 1, Central Baptist Church, 9419-95 St., Edm. Take part in 50 hours of non-stop worship, featuring various churches and worship teams. For more info, visit liveresurgence.com.
Regular Events Seniors Health & Fitness Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12 p.m., Northgate Baptist Church, 1320895 St., Edm. This is a go-at-yourown pace program for all abilities
(ages 45 and up). Bring walkers, etc. if required. $5/session, includes coffee time. For more info, visit northgatebaptist.ca, or call 780476-5855.
Deliverance Ministry Fridays, 7 p.m., Promised Land Ministries, 12145-67 St., Edmonton. Break free from spiritual bondage! Deliverance through Jesus Christ can transform your life. Visit the Friday night meetings to find out how. For more info, visit jesusdelivers.com. Encounter … A Worship Experience Sept. 27 and Oct. 25, 7-9 p.m., Fort Rd. Victory Church, 13470 Fort Rd., Edm. Join the service for songs, spontaneous worship, intercession, and prayer. For more info, visit frvc.ca, or call Valerie at 780-475-1647.
Music & Drama Celebration of Hope Festival Sept. 19-21, Battle River Ranch Camp (50 min. south of Lloydminster, on Hwy. 17.) Motivational speakers, local artists, strong man competitions, kids’ day
23
camp and more! For all the details, visit hopeformore.ca.
Manafest Sept. 24, 7 p.m., Living Stones Church, 2020-40 Ave., Red Deer. Manafest is a Christian rap artist with numerous Covenant Awards, Dove Awards, and Juno Awards to his credit. For more info, visit livingstones.ab.ca, or call 403-3477311.
Classes/Seminars Covenant Wealth Sept. 19-21, New Life Fellowship, 20 Kelloway Cres., Red Deer. Guest Speaker: Dr. Pat Francis (patfrancis.org). Cost: $50/door, $65/whole package, or $25/ session. Registration available online at folahministries.com.
Conferences/ Retreats Light The World Conference Sept. 12-14, River City Church, 12011-76 St., Edm. Listen to guest speaker Jeremiah Johnson, a gifted teacher and author from Heart of the Father Ministry. No charge, but online registration required. For more info, visit rivercitychurch.ca/
registration.php.
Christian Writers Conference Sept. 26-27, Four Points Sheraton, 7230- Argyll Rd., Edm. Plenary Speaker: Phil Callaway. Cost: $170$190 (incl. Fri. workshops and banquet, Sat. events and lunch, but not accommodation). Registration available online at inscribe.org. Marriage Conference Nov. 7-8, SPA For Life, 2821109 St., Edm. Guest speakers include Bill and Pam Farrel (best-selling authors of books like Men Are Life Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti), and retired Edmonton Esk Garry Lefebvre. Tickets: $165, available online at canadianmarriageconference.com. Love Talk Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m., Evangel Church, 4461-50 St., Edm. Catch New York Times bestselling author Dr. Gary D. Chapman speak on The Five Love Languages. His book spent over 300 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller list and is continuing to impact lives. Tickets: $15-$20, available online at fundandfaith.ca.
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Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways
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