June 2014 Mississippi Christian Living by Mississippi Christian Living

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contents JUNE 2014

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Volume 8, Number 12 Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A. Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@mschristianliving.com

columns 8 The Way I See It Wisdom from My Grandfather

10 Let’s Talk It Over Leading By Loving and Nurturing

12 Chewed Petunias When Faith Fails

14 Salt & Light Wherever He Leads—We Will Go

16 Living My Call Jim Poole: Counting It All Joy

18 This Is My Story A Miraculous Recovery

features

30 Welcome Home 5 Fabric Ideas for Tired Rooms

Rockey & Susan Felker

32 Lagniappe

It’s All Been Good

Focus on Fathering

34 Food for Thought Favorite Dishes to Celebrate Dad

36 Sports Victories Ross Mitchell—Faith off the Mound

38 Legal Advice

Planning for Long-Term Care

in every issue 6 39 40 41 42 42

Editor’s Letter Rave Reviews What’s Going On Events Calendar Quips & Quotes Advertiser Index

What’s Coming Next Month? Adjutant General of Mississippi: Major General Leon Collins Called to Serve God and Country

Art Direction/Graphic Design Sandra K. Goff Sales Marilyn Tinnin, Kimberly Stephens, Suzanne Durfey, Jill Waycaster West, Tara Dowden Contributing Writers Lydia Bolen, Dr. Charles Boudreaux, Libbo Crosswhite, Sherye Green, Missy S. Massey, Bill Moore, Walter Redden, Susan E. Richardson, Tracey Williamson, Martin E. Willoughby, Jr., Robert Wilson, Elizabeth Wynn Cover Photography Leilani Salter Distribution Assistants Laura Kidder, Randy Fortenberry, Andrea Sabillion, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland, Priscilla Sullivan, Bob Whatley, Amanda Weems

Mississippi Christian Living 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C Ridgeland, MS 39157 Phone 601-790-9076 • Fax 601-790-9078 www.mschristianliving.com

Mississippi Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal, and lifechanging encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Mississippi Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Mississippi Christian Living staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2013 by Mississippi Christian Living, Inc. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Mississippi Christian Living is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $29 for one year. Single issues available for $3 an issue. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Mississippi Christian Living, 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157.

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➺editor’s letter Happy Summer—Happy Father’s Day! “I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world…” John 17:6

❝

You can’t be selfish and be a great dad.

❞

– Jon Gordon

6 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

or many of us in the South, June means summer vacation, fresh vegetables, flip flops, and a little reprieve from the jump-outof-bed-and-hurry-up pace of the school year. Even though it has

been a very long time since I experienced that harried life of getting children up and out the door for school nine months out of the year, I don’t think I will ever stop feeling that June ushers in a short season when we have permission to slow down and to absorb in a personal and tender way the sights, sounds, and textures that are uniquely “summer” in nature. And that’s a kind of God Thing—that we can live a very long time and never lose our sense of wonder over things like a sunset on the water, the sand between our toes, the taste of a real Mississippi tomato, or the vibrant almost Technicolor of a living landscape. There is joy in paying attention! Our June magazine is always a tribute to our fathers, and I am forever challenged to write this particular letter. Despite my lack of experience as a father, I can attest that I did have a dad who was very much a hero in my eyes and whose influence is as deep and wide and high at this decade of my life as it was many decades ago. I am reminded every single day that we all leave a legacy in the lives of others, and the amazing truth is that as long as we are breathing, we have an opportunity to make that legacy a positive and significant one—to do as Jesus did—to reveal our heavenly Father to those entrusted to us. What a privilege and something the world can never take away. You are in for a treat this month. We introduce you to a diverse group of outstanding and very successful men—successful in everything that matters most. In our present environment where a very shallow Pop Culture seems to reign supreme on every level, it is more than refreshing to find those kindred spirits who still believe in eternal truth, God’s sovereignty, and who purpose to allow Him to direct their paths. By all means, meet Mark Smith who now heads the First Baptist Church of Jackson. Sherye Green gives us a candid and up close look at this pastor and his wife, Toni, who are very much a ministry team. Rockey and Susan Felker are two of my favorite-ever interviews. As far as a man’s mentor, there could be nobody on earth who could be a better example of husband, father, and regular guy than Rockey. From living his dream as the head football coach at Mississippi State University at the age of 33 to losing it all and starting over more than once, he definitely learned the hard way the art of what the apostle Paul called “contentment in every situation.” As the father of three outstanding sons, he counts himself rich in everything that makes for meaning in life. Nothing really happened according to his “druthers,” but he means it when he looks back, sees God’s hand, and says, “It’s all been good.” Don’t miss our Lagniappe this month. Four contributors, from very different places in life, share poignant reflections on their special dads. “Living My Call” features a much loved and respected Jim Poole, retired partner in local CPA firm Grantham and Poole. This Q&A is a personal glimpse into the life of one who operates within his husband, father, and professional roles as Christ-follower above all. Warm, insightful, and inspiring. Be sure, too, not to miss “This is My Story.” My friend, John Overby, has shared his miraculous recovery from a debilitating stroke. His is a tale of encouragement and faithfulness and those second chances that sometimes come to us despite the prognosis. He is determined not to waste God’s grace. Lydia’s recipes are as yummy and easy to prepare as ever.You are sure to want to try them. Bless her for coming up with recipes even a challenged cook like myself can put together! There’s a lot here to take in. Happy Father’s Day! Enjoy! Y

Marilyn H. Tinnin, Publisher and Editor marilyn@MSChristianliving.com

➺the way i see it by MARTIN E. WILLOUGHBY, JR.

Wisdom from My Grandfather IN SEPTEMBER 1992, I received a phone call that would change my life forever. My father, who was living in Memphis at the time, had died. I had recently graduated from college and was starting to find my way in the world. My grandfather, M.J. Brown, stepped into the gap left by the loss of my father and played a fatherly role to me as a young adult. During my early 20s, I operated a family-owned, self-storage facility, and I spent many hours working with my grandfather at the property as we undertook construction projects, took care of customers, and managed the business. He recently passed on—at the age of 99—having lived a very full and fruitful life. As I reflect on this Father’s Day, I am reminded of several important life lessons I learned from my grandfather.

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Love Your Spouse

From the time I was a young child, I remember my grandfather having nothing but complimentary things to say about my grandmother. He constantly praised her in front of us for her beauty and intellect, her cooking, and her musical ability. He was her biggest fan. They lived in a modest home in an area where many people moved away, but they created an oasis in their backyard. Every day they would walk together and end their day sitting out in their backyard enjoying the beautiful garden they had created together. When my grandmother, Peggy, came down with terminal cancer, he

illness, he was an active reader always seeking to grow in his knowledge and faith.

✴

took personal care of her right until the very end despite his advanced age at the time. Their 50+ years of marriage serve as an inspiration to me of what a lasting commitment looks like.

✴

Stay Engaged

I believe one of the reasons that my grandfather lived so long is that he never quit being engaged with life. After a long career with the Monroe Calculator Company, he retired at age 62. Even though he ended his employment, he never disengaged. He served for years on the City of Jackson Planning and Zoning Board and taught Sunday school every week. In his 80s, he was doing manual labor with me at our storage facility—and up until the time of his final

Life Is About Relationships

One of the most important things he taught me was the importance of relationships and family. Every Sunday for years, my family would lunch at my grandparents’ house. We spent many leisurely Sunday afternoons hanging out with my grandparents and extended family. My grandfather never met a stranger and was always quick to give someone a genuine compliment. He knew how to lift someone’s spirit who was down in the dumps. He was present with people and made them feel special. In today’s smartphone world, this is a lost art. My grandparents entertained often and kept up with many friends throughout their life. Even when my grandfather’s health was fading, he would spend his time checking in on other people who were having more trouble than he was. While my grandfather was certainly human like the rest of us and full of faults, foibles, and fears, he did create a lasting and positive influence on many others and me. As I think about his life and legacy, I just hope in some small way I can live a life of purpose and meaning like he did. Y Martin E. Willoughby, Jr,. is Chief Operating Officer of Butler Snow Advisory Services, LLC located in Ridgeland. He and his wife, Nicki, have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Memphis, Tennessee.

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➺let’s talk it over by CHARLES BOUDREAUX

Leading By Loving and Nurturing ary Margaret, I receive you as a precious gift from God. I

“M

pledge to give myself to you as Christ gave Himself for the church, His bride. I pledge to build a home together under God’s leadership and for His glory. I covenant before God and these witnesses to be your loving and faithful husband in plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live.” (Vows spoken by our youngest son, Timothy, to his precious bride, Mary Margaret, in January 2013.) “I pledge to give myself to you as Christ gave Himself for the church, His bride.” Treasured words from God’s Word spoken from the heart and mind of Timothy, who recognized that God’s leadership in his personal life and in his marriage would be the only way he could give himself to Mary

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Margaret—his bride—as Christ gave Himself for the church, His bride! “For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church…” (Ephesians 5:23a). To be the head of something is defined in the dictionary as “acting as a leader to.” Men, to be a leader in our marriages just as Christ is leader in His church—what an awesome calling and responsibility we have! The key, then, to knowing how to be a leader in our marriages is to know how Christ leads the church. “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,” (Ephesians 5:25). Christ leads the church by loving her. He demonstrated His love by giving Himself up for her. In 1 John 3:16a, we read, “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us.” In Ephesians 5:26-27, we read why Christ demonstrated this self-giving love for the church, “that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the Word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.” In application, we husbands are to love our wives by demonstrating a self-giving and sacrificial love to equip them for spiritual growth and maturity. “So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church,” (Ephesians 5:28-29). Christ leads the church by nourishing and cherishing her—by nurturing her! Nurturing is defined as “caring for, protecting, sacrificially meeting the needs of another, keeping or cultivating with care and affection, nourishing and cherishing by giving what is needed for life, growth & development, and health.” In application, the husband is to nurture his wife by being a sacrificial servant who spares no cost to see that his wife is cared for. The Greek word for nurturer means husbandman, which is where we get the

English word husband. The word husbandman means a tiller of the soil, one that plows and cultivates land—a farmer or gardener. A husbandman or nurturer is one who helps things grow. To best do this, he needs to understand the environment needed for the growth of the different varieties of plants, to know and supply the ingredients needed for growth of the plants, to spot and pull weeds, spray insects or to eliminate anything that threatens to do the plants harm, and to do his best to guard the plants against external and internal trauma. As husbands, we are responsible for understanding the environment needed for the growth of our wives, for knowing and supplying consistently the ingredients needed to help them to grow and blossom, to spot and pull any weeds or whatever threatens to do them or our marriage harm, and to do our best to guard them against external and internal trauma. Loving and nurturing our wives like Christ loves and nurtures His church, We cannot— but He can and will love and nurture through us as husbands, as we follow Him in trust and obedience as our leader, as we surrender to be led by His Holy Spirit who provides all we need for all He has called us to do and be! The psalmist says “Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways…Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the very heart of your house, Your children like olive plants all around your table.” (Psalm 128:1,3) What a gift for our children this Father’s Day to have a Daddy who loves and nurtures their Mother as Christ loves and nurtures His church! (Scriptures from New King James Version)

Y Charles Boudreaux, LMFT, LPC, is the Interim Counseling and Congregational Care Pastor at Summit Counseling. Visit the website at www.SummitFirst.org or call 601.949.1949 for information.

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➺chewed petunias by SUSAN E. RICHARDSON

When Faith Fails “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord,” (Romans 8:38-39). ne year when we were growing up, my cousin, Lynette, got a magic set for Christmas. The next time we visited, she was eager to show me all of the tricks and illusions. One in particular grabbed my attention:

a simple tube with a rubber band hanging out of the bottom. The idea was to insert the hooked stem into the tube and catch the rubber band. She demonstrated how easy it was. One try and the stem snapped back in place. So I tried. Nothing. I tried again. Nothing. I looked down the tube. Couldn’t see anything. Tried shaking it before the next attempt. Still nothing. I handed it back to Lynette, and once again she succeeded and the stem popped briskly into place. Now my stubborn was up. I was going to hook that rubber band if it was the last thing I did. After watching my attempts for a while, Lynette—being a kind-hearted person—offered to tell me how to do it. No, I wanted to figure it out on my own. We made at least one more visit where I spent time trying again and again to snag that pesky rubber band before I finally gave up and let her tell me the secret. Quite simple, really. The tube had no rubber band inside. The slanted tip of the stem let her squeeze it back into the tube with a snap. With faith issues, sometimes I’ve felt like others knew a trick I didn’t know. During struggles friends would share Scripture, and I believed, held onto God’s Word, but still didn’t receive any comfort. Books reassured me that if I called God would answer, but I heard nothing. I kept doing the right things to walk in faith, but nothing seemed to touch my pain or confusion. Why did faith seem to work for everyone else and not for me? Faith, of course, isn’t a trick, but a relationship God makes possible with us through Jesus. I didn’t doubt my salvation, and I’d had the kind of fellowship others talked about in the past. So why didn’t I receive anything from Him during a crisis?

Trying to answer that question left me with a couple of agonizing options. On one side, I had to ask if God was false. Could it be that faith was an illusion and the promises of Scripture not true? The testimony of others paled against my own pain. On the other side, I had to consider if I were in the wrong somehow. Had I left sin unconfessed? Did God need to break something within me that I was resisting? After much prayer, nothing came to me that showed I needed to repent. The truth is, neither option was correct. I’d forgotten the results of living as a wounded Christian. We don’t connect to God as easily as those without damage. Adopted children may suffer from Attachment Disorder, because they did not have adequate care early on. Wounded Christians may suffer Spiritual Attachment Disorder, especially if Satan wounded us before we had a relationship with Jesus. With damaged connections, we don’t hear or feel God like healthy Christians. While others move deeper into faith, we must go over the earlier lessons again, practicing believing what we can’t sense and trying to form a deeper connection. God understands and works with us as patiently as any parent helping a child catch up. If you, too, have wondered why faith seems to fail, take heart. Living as a wounded Christian in a healthy Church can be challenging, but God loves us as we are and where we are. Give yourself grace to grow, as you’re able, being faithful where you are without comparing yourself to others.

Father, the way is hard. Living wounded as a Christian can lead to discouragement. Give us an extra measure of Your strength. Help our brothers and sisters understand when we don’t respond the same way they do. Above all, help us remember that You are always with us, even when we can’t feel Your presence. Y

Susan E. Richardson has a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word.You can reach her by email at Susan@chewedpetunias.com or check either of her two websites: www.chewedpetunias.com or www.nextlevelcritiques.com 12 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

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➺salt & light by SHERYE GREEN

Wherever He Leads—We Will Go

The Ministry of Mark and Toni Smith

As God often does, He quietly works in an unseen realm behind the curtain of our lives to bring about in His appointed time that which then becomes visible to us. Seeds God planted long ago within the hearts of Mark and Toni Smith, while they were growing up in Ohio, are now bearing fruit in a new place of service. This time last year, Mark was fully engaged in a senior pastorate at Murdoch Baptist Church in Port Charlotte, Florida. Mark and Toni, high school sweethearts, could never have imagined that on November 3, 2013, Mark would assume the role of Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church of Jackson, Mississippi. Mark recalls getting a call in July 2013 from Dr. Sam Peeples, then chairman of the Pastor Search Committee, inquiring if Mark would be interested in talking to the committee. Mark was grateful for the consideration, but declined to be considered. Part of what prompted his initial response was that First Baptist Jackson was much bigger than Murdoch Baptist Church, where Mark had served as senior pastor for eight years. Soon after talking with Sam, Mark called his older son, Keith, and shared details of the conversation. When told that his dad wasn’t interested in the job, Keith replied, “Dad, let me see if I’ve got this straight—you’re going to start telling God what you’re going to let Him do in your life?” Mark’s wise son also told his dad, “Don’t worry about the size of the church. Their church is just like your church; it’s just bigger.” Mark’s conversation with Keith prompted him to reexamine Sam’s call and not pass it off as mere happenstance. “I was determined NOT to call Sam back. I felt like if God was in it, He was a big enough God to prompt the search committee to call again. 24 to 48 hours

after making that decision, Sam called.” When asked what drew the search committee to Mark Smith, Sam shares, “There are many qualities that drew us to Mark—his preaching, his transparency, and his authenticity—but one in particular is the joy that he exudes. We were all drawn to his smiling eyes, because they are a reflection of his soul.” Mark’s goals for his new church family are simple—develop a greater sense of unity and “family” within the church body, build up a multigenerational congregation, and establish a VIP (Volunteer In Preschool) ministry for preschoolers staffed entirely by adult volunteers other than parents of preschoolers. “First Baptist Jackson is a loving and even intimate church fellowship,” shares Mark. “It’s just bigger than most churches. I’ve never experienced a fellowship any greater than what these people enjoy every single time they get together.” Mark and Toni have been busy since their move last November. Shortly after beginning their ministry at First Baptist Jackson, Toni returned to Ohio to oversee the move of Mark’s parents to Jackson. Mark beams when talking about his parents, Jack and Eleanor Smith. “We’ve always known Mom and Dad would move in with us. We’re all in a new season!” The commitment to building a multigenerational congregation isn’t merely something Mark speaks to only on Sunday mornings. It’s a way of life for him. Mark, like Toni, was blessed to be reared in a home where Christ was Lord and where from his earliest recollections he saw a Christlike walk modeled by both his father and mother. Mark remembers watching and listening as his father and his maternal grandfather, Everett Booth, spent hours at the kitchen table studying and discussing

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love of others. They are grounded in their love of the Lord and in their love for each other. They are a team, in every sense of the word. “We both own up to the responsibility of being shepherds,” Mark shares. The love and respect this couple has for each other is written across both their faces. Their team approach to ministry makes a profound impact on all they meet. One way in which this collaboration shared between husband and wife is evident is at the close of every First Baptist Jackson service. Any individuals who have come forward to make a decision either for salvation or to join the church are greeted with an enthusiastic handshake from Mark and a warm hug from Toni. Many church members, so moved by these gestures, have remarked that they would walk the aisle to join the church again “just to get one of Toni’s hugs.” As church and community members alike have gotten to know Mark and Toni, they quickly recognize that Toni is equally passionate about ministry. “I feel just as called as Mark is,” she shares. I’m committed to building community within my new church family.” A priority that Mark and Toni draw quiet strength from is their commitment to guard their marriage and their family life. Mark learned many valuable lessons in how to be a godly husband and father from his dear friend, Dr. Hal Warren, who has recently joined First Baptist Jackson’s staff as Missions and Evangelism Pastor. Mark served as Minister of Music for two years under Hal’s pastorate of Teamon Ever since their senior year of high school, Mark and Toni Smith have been Baptist Church in Griffin, Georgia. Y

Scripture. Booth, a Baptist deacon, had led Mark’s father to the Lord years earlier. Shortly after their marriage almost 36 years ago, Mark felt led into the ministry. Preparing for the responsibilities of that work would demand much of them both. In the early years, Mark was working full-time with his father’s contracting business and attending college classes. Toni was home raising their two young sons, Keith and Kyle. A music education graduate of Ohio State University, Mark served for 14 years as a music minister. Somewhere in the midst of those years, God began to tug on Mark’s heart, gently turning it this way and that to redirect Mark’s thoughts and desires to the possibility of conducting a new score, that of a preaching ministry. Mark entered Ashland Theological Seminary in 1994 and graduated four years later with a Master’s Degree in a “team.” Christian Education. In this new phase of ministry, Mark served first as Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church in Aurora, Ohio, then as Associate Pastor of Brookwood Baptist Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia, before moving to Florida. Mark and Toni are exuberant, joy-filled believers who have a genuine

Sherye Green is a lifelong Jacksonian, a teacher at Hinds Community College, and a wife, mother, and grandmother. Sherye and her husband Mark are members of First Baptist Church in Jackson. She is also the author of Abandon Not My Soul.

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S k i l l e d H a n d s . C o m p a s s i o n at e H e a r t s . mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 15

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➺living my call by MARILYN TINNIN

Jim Poole: Counting It All Joy Jim Poole and his friend and fellow CPA, Tom Grantham, launched their Grantham and Poole CPA firm in 1999.With Core Values that speak of honoring God and serving their clients and community with trust, integrity, and excellence, the firm has attracted like-minded individuals as part of the team. Though Jim is recently retired and enjoying the role of grandfather, his character and principles will continue to be very much a part of his legacy there. GranthamPoole is one of Mississippi’s largest accounting firms. MCL: What influences led you to choose accounting as a career?

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The issue for me had more to do with what solid foundation did I have to turn to after having various ups and downs in business ventures. I had majored in accounting because it provided the best background for entering into the business world. Mr. Gene Peery, an accounting professor at Ole Miss, was very enthusiastic about accounting and sold me on the value of that major. In 1985, I needed steady work, so, already having a CPA license, I started an accounting firm. The work and the clients are very interesting, as you are met with new situations and questions every day.

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I have been greatly influenced by the excellent preaching and teaching of many, such as Ligon Duncan, Derek Thomas, Thad Barnum, Fitz Allison, Curt Presley, and many others in recent years, as well as the witness and example of many committed Christians such as my friend Bo Bowen. But the greatest influence for me has probably been from reading orthodox Christian writings. I have been taught and encouraged by works of J.C. Ryle, J.I. Packer, C.S. Lewis, A.W. Tozer, John Bunyan, Martyn Lloyd-Jones, and R.C. Sproul, among others.

MCL: Someone I greatly respect pointed out to me that

God never wastes anything in our lives. Nothing is random. So, in your life, what were the things or the people or the circumstances that did not really have a thing to do with the profession of accounting, but have had great impact on the way you embrace both your professional and your private life? My father, Buster Poole, had the most loving and significant impact on my life. He was the oldest son in a large family from rural Amite County in South Mississippi. He assumed great responsibility at age 9 when his father died, leaving behind a wife and seven children. He farmed that year and made a bale of cotton before his 10th birthday. He took his responsibilities and

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commitments seriously. He totally loved my mother and was focused about his responsibility as the head of our family. He was straightforward and always did what he said he would do. He respected authority and loved our country. He was the first from his community to go to college, and was able to do so because of an athletic scholarship. His character was formed largely by the depression of the 1930s, his education at the University of Mississippi, service as a U.S. Naval officer during World War II, and his eight years of playing professional football. I count my blessings for all of the ways in which the things that he did shaped me.

MCL: What would you tell a young person just starting out about how important it is to work with people who share your values? Or is that even important anymore?

The best place to start is to prioritize your own values. Working with people that share your values is a good goal, but sometimes is not as easy as it might seem. But it is important to set that as a goal, for if you pursue a vocation that you really enjoy, with a company and people that share your values, you will have the best possibility for a fulfilling and rewarding career.

choices. My wife, Gayle, and I did spend time encouraging them to do their best in school and to make career choices that they would enjoy and find compelling. I trust that we showed them a work ethic by example. All of them are pursuing professional careers, some even part-time, while being wonderful mothers. Y

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➺this is my story by MARILYN TINNIN

A Miraculous Recovery ince what should have been a death sentence caused by a blood clot on his brain in January of last year, John Overby of Brandon strives to live every day with uncommon gratitude and joy. Father to three

outstanding sons and husband to a lady who cherishes every minute with him, his daily ritual begins with a 6 a.m. half-mile walk down a familiar country road. He makes that same trek at dusk every day. The routine never gets stale for him, as it is a time he counts his blessings and simply basks in the richness of God’s goodness. He vows, “I’ll never miss another sunrise.” John was getting dressed to go to work at his business, Long Electric, in Flowood that memorable morning. Suddenly, and without warning, his legs just gave way, and he could not make his hands work to push himself up. He suddenly felt very dizzy with a headache he describes as unbearable. Tammy Overby immediately called 911. Minutes later, she was watching the paramedics lift her husband into the waiting ambulance. This was The Overby Family: Sons surreal. Nothing in the preceding Timothy, Jeffrey, and Mitchell, weeks had even hinted that John John and Tammy. was ill. The next few hours in ICU at St. Dominic’s Hospital were a blur of tests and specialists. The prognosis was not encouraging as the neurologist informed Tammy that her husband would likely not survive, and if somehow he did, he would never be able to take care of himself He constantly gave again. The immediate need was to credit to God telling relieve the pressure on the brain making it necessary to make an incision in the every inquisitive technician, doctor, skull, risking infection, further stroke, and permanent brain damage. nurse, or therapist As a U.S. Navy veteran and one who that he had to be had served in Desert Storm, John possessed an uncommon grit and about his Father’s determination. He recalls thinking as the business. doctor explained the seriousness of the moment, “Ma’am. You are either in the wrong room or you have the wrong patient.” He knew from the start he had too much to live for and that God had things for him yet to do. John survived the procedure, much to everyone’s surprise— except his own—and spent the next month at St. Dominic’s meeting (maybe surpassing) each milestone during his unlikely recovery. He spent another month inpatient at Methodist Rehab and was finally allowed to return home in a wheelchair, with a prescription for continued outpatient physical therapy. He had already come so much farther than anyone, doctors included, ever dreamed that he would. He was the “miracle” patient infusing energy, joy, and deeper 18 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

purpose to everyone involved in his rehab. He would catch people off guard when they remarked at his offthe-charts recovery. He constantly gave credit to God telling every inquisitive technician, doctor, nurse, or therapist that he had to be about His Father’s business. Therefore, he was going forward. Even though he had some lingering effects with balance and vision, his level of joy and his positive attitude caught his therapists by surprise. Who was encouraging whom in his recovery? An invalid he was determined NOT to be, at least not yet at the age of 45. One of his greatest joys as a member of North Brandon Church of Christ had been participating in mission trips to Cuba where he was part of a team that trains pastors and helps with a ministry to so many who are thirsting for the gospel. Families actually load up in oxcarts traveling for three days to worship and hear a Christian minister preach about Jesus. John Overby longed to return to Cuba. He was simply not ready to hang it up. And like all the other milestones he managed to meet although nobody thought he could, he did that one, too. In November 2013, eleven months after his predicted “death,” he was part of a team that returned to Cuba, and his stamina was as great as ever. Everyone is amazed—except John who subscribes to Ephesians 3:20 that God is able to do John (center) visits with members of the Cuban mission this past November. immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to HIS power that is at work within us. There have been some changes in his life since that eventful day in 2013. Maybe some things that used to seem huge are not as important as they used to be. He has always been a man with a specific mission, and he has always been focused to a large degree on serving God where he is in the here and now. He is just a bit more tuned in than ever. Nothing like a brush with death to heighten one’s sensitivity to finiteness, time, and priorities! John has given thought to what he calls “the true measure of a man,” and he has honed in on three things: (1) to serve his God and Creator, (2) to serve and protect his family, and (3) to be sure that he teaches his children to do the same. Y

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20 JUNE 2014 â?&#x2DC; Mississippi Christian Living

“A place of healing and miracles.”

“Methodist Rehabilitation Center is a place of healing and miracles—a place where I have sensed Christ’s presence in remarkable ways,” says the Rev. Linda Rickman, an associate pastor at Madison United Methodist Church who also serves as a volunteer chaplain at the Jackson rehabilitation hospital. “It is a jewel of the United Methodist Church in Mississippi.” “I volunteered to serve in order to bless the lives of patients and discovered that I was blessed by the patients and staff of Methodist Rehab,” she says. “I encourage everyone to refer members and friends to Methodist Rehab after a stroke or a disabling injury or illness.”

Nationally recognized center of excellence for rehab after a stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury or amputation. For more information, visit methodistonline.org or call 601-364-3434 or toll-free 1-800-223-6672, ext. 3434. mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 21

22 JUNE 2014 â?&#x2DC; Mississippi Christian Living

Rockey & Susan Felker It’s All Been Good THE YEAR WAS 1986. Rockey Felker was just 33 years old when he became the youngest head football coach in the nation. He was living his dream coaching football at Mississippi State University, his alma mater and the place he absolutely loved better than most anyplace on earth—the place that felt like home. His plan was to raise his family there, to build the program, and retire when the time came. And even then, Starkville—and MSU—would continue to be home. All of his memories there were good ones. In 1974, his senior year as quarterback, he had led the Bulldogs to a 9-3 overall record, leading the SEC in total offense, guiding his team to a victory in the Sun Bowl, and enjoying accolades as the SEC Player of the year and the Birmingham Post Herald’s Outstanding Senior Player. Aside from all that, Rockey was a guy with a strong commitment to the Lord. He was always open about his faith—not preachy or holier-than-thou—but just a “what-you-see-is-what-you- get”

personality, notably steady and consistent. Whether he was on the field, in the locker room, or in church on Sunday mornings, Rockey was the same humble Rockey. And because of that, even those who did not bleed maroon and white had a certain affection and respect for Rockey Felker. But in 1986, when the great desire of his heart to be a head coach in SEC football was granted, he inherited a program that was in bad shape. The Bulldogs had one outstanding quarterback and beyond that

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Whether it has involved playing the sport, coaching the sport, or recruiting, Rockey is maroon and white through and through!

Bulldog fans Jack Cristil, the radio voice of the Bulldogs for decades, with Rockey.

24 JUNE 2014 â?&#x2DC; Mississippi Christian Living

were in “rebuilding” mode. The challenges were big ones. In spite of the deficits—and there were many—the Bulldogs pulled out a 6-5 record that first year beating ranked teams like Tennessee and Syracuse. Optimism for the future was high, but maybe not so realistic. When the next season began and the seniors of the previous year had departed, there was just no miracle waiting around the corner. That season and the next four were dismal. Recruiting was complicated by facilities that needed updating, and it was hard to attract the top prospects when the competition involved schools with gargantuan budgets for the football program. He was fired after the 1990 season. And it hurt—a lot. It hurt so much that when Rockey and Susan packed up and left Starkville, Rockey cashed in his state retirement. If there was one thing he was sure of, it was this—he was not coming back to Mississippi State. Redemption happens. God opens doors, changes hearts, and that old friend, TIME, can heal a lot of hurts. Such has certainly been the case for Rockey and Susan Felker. And the promise of Romans 8:28—that God does work all things for good in the lives of those who love Him—proved itself true again and again. Five moves and 12 years later, the Felkers’ returned to MSU. Rockey accepted the administrative role as Coordinator of Football Operations. The greatest irony in his return was that Jackie Sherrill, the man who had been hired to replace him years earlier, was also the man who literally pursued him, cajoled him, and convinced him to come home. Twelve years have passed. Rockey is still at MSU though his job description has been either tweaked or rewritten with each head

coach change. Win or lose. Rockey is as MSU as “Bully” himself. When he is dubbed “the Ambassador of MSU,” there is much truth in the title. He can coach. He can recruit. He can talk to prospective players’ mamas (an art all its own). He can speak to civic clubs, churches, pro-scouts, or professors—just pick a venue. He is a master at building relationships because he genuinely likes

It hurt so much that when Rockey and Susan packed up and left Starkville, Rockey cashed in his state retirement. If there was one thing he was sure of, it was this—he was not coming back to Mississippi State. people. When it comes to the players, he takes an interest in their lives beyond football. Susan laughs telling the story of the day she was grabbing lunch in the Union and a football player came up to her and asked if she was Coach Rock’s wife. She replied that she was, and the young man said, “You know what we call Coach Rock? The godfather.” Rockey relishes his role and admits that he sleeps with his cell phone close by feeling a certain paternal responsibility to be on call all the time. One of his former players tells me that Rockey’s coaching style was unique. He was not a screamer. Neither was he “soft.” He was care and concern and encouraging and warm, but he had a way of teaching personal toughness. And his faith always bled through.

Beginnings Rockey grew up in Brownsville, Tennessee, the oldest of three sons born to Mary Jane and “Babe” Felker who coached football and girls’ basketball at the local high school. Athletics was big with the Felker boys. They played every sport, and Rockey lettered in five of them, but the family faith and the Brownsville Baptist Church had an even bigger stake than athletics on Rockey’s future. He walked the aisle and made his profession of faith at eight years old. “I had already asked Jesus in to my heart…and, you know, that was a big part of my life. I always wanted to serve God.” It seems that Rockey understood at a very young age that life is not lived in “compartments,” but that for Believers, everything is connected. Lifestyle. Believer. The same. A close-knit family, the Felkers’ enjoyed Sunday lunch at their grandparents’ house. Rockey suspects his grandmother’s ultimate plan was to be sure her children and grandchildren were all active and involved in church every week. Those lunches at Ma’s house yielded more than fried chicken. An unchangeable rule was no television while the family sat down together. Even the Super Bowl did not faze Ma or Pop. “We had a strong family, a lot of love and a commitment of going to church. Ma and Pop, and my parents, too, were not bashful in sharing how important their faith in God was to them,” Rockey says. He adds that the fried chicken and coconut pie did not hurt. Although his high school football team had an incredibly successful record, he did not think he was a shoo-in for an SEC bid. He surmises that he was the 45th guy of 45 to receive a scholarship to MSU in 1971. He had three offers, all to SEC schools, but he chose MSU because he had grown up with a father

mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 25

sight. It was not Southern! But even in that if she would be ready for that kind of lifestyle who spent his own childhood in Corinth and move, God was so good. It was a great place if she married him. loved to tune to Jack Cristil’s broadcasts of for us. It forced us as a young couple to be Starry-eyed and in love with Rockey, she the Bulldog games. “Babe” frequently took away and on our own and we got into a had no real understanding of what that meant his sons to see State play, and Rockey church and really fell when she said, decided early on that he would spend his in love with Lubbock.” “Of course!” She college career at MSU. From his very first trip But then, Lubbock would find out to campus, it just felt like home. was home for just soon enough. He never regretted it. His senior year at A few years two years before State brought a winning record, a bowl the moving van victory, and awards. But arrived again. the most significant In their 37-year event of 1974 did not marriage, the Felkers involve football. He met have set up Susan Tingle of housekeeping in 10 Philadelphia, different residences in Mississippi. Their 40six states. In the first year relationship did decade alone there not start with romance. was Starkville, It began with Rockey Lubbock, Memphis, seeking Susan’s Tuscaloosa, and then assistance to help him back to Starkville as win the favor of her Head Coach. The roommate. He In hindsight, Rockey realizes the time he enjoyed with sons Jay, brutal reality of a eventually realized he David, and Stephen in their childhood would probably not have coach’s job security is was chasing the happened if he had succeeded as a winning head coach at MSU. this—it’s all about the scoreboard. wrong girl! It was a trade-off he considers a rich blessing. Rockey had known that from the get-go, but that did not mean it hurt any less The Gypsy Life of when he was fired. It was a bitter pill for Collegiate Coaching someone who was just 37 years old. Things were looking serious between the From Starkville to Tulsa to Arkansas, back two by the time graduation rolled around. to Tulsa, and then leaving coaching entirely to Rockey was considering his future. He had take up selling insurance in Fayetteville for a majored in general business— few years, there was a lot of bouncing around halfheartedly—admitting that he spent many for the family. Selling insurance was—well, a class time drawing X’s and O’s instead of not fun. In a word, Rockey describes it pursuing the principles of business. His heart as “horrible.” was in coaching, and that is really all he Life may have looked chaotic on the wanted to do. outside, but, as a couple, they leaned hard on later as the young couple left Starkville for a When then MSU Coach Bob Tyler offered God in every circumstance, and their family coaching stint at Texas Tech in Lubbock, him an assistant’s position, he knew if he took was probably all the stronger and all the Susan remembers thinking, “What in the it, he was embarking on a definite career closer because of the moves. Rockey says, world is this? West Texas was flat—flatter path. Rockey wrote Susan a letter telling her “We always looked at the job like God was in how much he wanted to coach but asking her than the Mississippi Delta—with no trees in

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The Felkers: (L to R) David and Lauren, Mary Virginia and Stephen, Susan and Rockey, Jennifer and Jay, and grandsons Hudson and Athan. Not pictured is third grandson, Marshall, born to David and Lauren on March 25, 2014.

the middle of it. Whether we chose to leave ourselves or whether we got fired, God was causing this to happen and we are moving for a reason. Every move that we made, we always prayed about it and always tried to get a sense of conviction of ‘does God want us to stay or want us to move?’ And we’ve always grown from it.” Looking back Rockey says, “It’s been in the hurtful things and in times that we have absolutely been on our face before the Lord that we have grown the most.” Susan agrees. She also admits that she cried alligator tears every time she had to leave a place she had grown to love and start again in a new community where she knew no one. But she did it, and she did it well. Every place they have lived, they have made the kind of lifelong friends who remain close to them despite the miles that separate.

nice for a change!” Rockey agrees. “Those years while the boys were growing up, going through junior high and high school, involved in sports and involved in the church really was a time of

A mind for tru . A heart for God .

Counting Blessings With the wisdom that comes in hindsight, Rockey counts the blessings that grew out of that grievous disappointment in 1990. “I wouldn’t take anything for the time I had with my kids. And I couldn’t have done that if I had been the head coach.” Those years between their departure and return to MSU were filled with raising three sons. Not being head coach meant there was time for coaching little league, being heavily involved in church and community, and the freedom of being anonymous. Susan says, “It was great to take the kids out to eat and nobody would stop us and ask us who we were going to sign for quarterback. It was

Christ-Centered Counseling To set up an appointment, contact us at: 601-923-1645 | bmartin@rts.edu rts.edu mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 27

setting their values and becoming who they were to become. It worked out, couldn’t have worked out any better to be honest. You know, God was obviously with us.” Indeed. The Felker boys are, in Rockey’s mind, by God’s grace, his and Susan’s greatest achievement. Jay Felker is the Young Adult Pastor at McKinney Bible Church in Fort Worth. David is Minister of Young Adults at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, and Stephen is completing a degree from Union University that will equip him for teaching in urban communities where poverty and every sort of dysfunction are rampant. “Every time we hear them speak, they make us cry and laugh, and, you know, put a lot of joy in both our hearts.” Some things transcend fame and fortune, and fatherhood is one of those things for Rockey Felker.

Today’s Journey Twelve years in one place has been like living in the Promised Land for Rockey and Susan. While Rockey has enjoyed the multiple roles he plays in athletics and in representing MSU, Susan has enjoyed not packing up boxes for the next move! Life has been rich with family, new friends, old friends, three new daughters-in-law, grandchildren, church, and a predictable life. That is, until April 2013.

Susan received the jolting diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer. And in this illness, true to their form and faith, they lean on God and say, as always, “God has been so good to us.” Lessons? Oh, yes, more lessons. As if they had not already earned their Ph.D. in Faithfully Following Christ. That’s the thing about God. There is just always more. “I’ve learned,” says Susan, “to cherish moments and to try to find joy in every day. I appreciate my family and the times we’re together in a different way than I ever have before. And I realize that okay, Lord, this is what you have for me, and so how can I give you glory in this place and make it better for my family? That’s the hard thing. I have to remind myself—Lord, if you’re sovereign and this is what you have for me, then this is what you have for them, and I’m going to trust them to you as they get okay with this, too.” Rockey says he certainly wasn’t ready to hear that “C” word, but he has discovered that there is really nothing he won’t do to support his soul mate. He echoes Susan’s feelings about cherishing the moments with each other and with their family. Another realization for both of them has been an overwhelming gratitude for the relationships they have built in the many

places they have lived. Some of those old friends from Oklahoma and Arkansas have been key supports and cheerleaders during the past year traveling to Mississippi to simply “be there” for their friends. As Susan said recently, “Cancer clarifies. It has helped me realize what really matters— relationships with my God, my family, my friends, and each and every soul that I come into contact with. What once I might have thought of as random, is now very important to me.” She sees everything as part of God’s design. Susan keeps a Caring Bridge page that has had around 30,000 visitors, and, as you would expect, it is a journal filled with insights, praise, and inspiration—a virtual testament to the faithfulness of the God she loves. Her entries are addressed to “Dear Ones,” and close with the words, “Redeemed, Susan.” She compares their nomadic coaching career to a quilt saying, “This isn’t the way I had planned for it to be. I wanted to always be maroon and white, for life to be like a maroon coverlet. Instead, we ended up with a patchwork quilt of many colors! But God was so good to lead us exactly the way He did.” And Rockey nods in agreement. “It’s all been good.” Y

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Joshua and Dr. Kentrell Liddell will sign copies of the Taru Books at the Flora Public Library in Flora, MS on June 28th from 11 am until 1 pm.

www.tarubooks.org 28 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

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Time to be swept away, by four seasons of celebrations in the South’s most beautiful historic city. Festivals and fun. Grand and gorgeous historic homes. Birthplace of America’s greatest playwright,Tennessee Williams. Ghost tours that tingle the spine and touch the imagination. In a recreational paradise, the hunting and ﬁshing are superb, and in a city of legendary artists, the music and magic are never-ending. Shop, dine, savor. Follow your passions, follow your heart, to Columbus in 2014!

Year-Round Daily Historic Home Tours s July Southside/ Townsend Park Blues Festival s Crawford Cotton Boll Festival s August Artesia Days s Roast N’ Boast September Tennessee Williams Tribute s October TH !VENUE (ERITAGE &ESTIVAL s Caledonia Days s Eudora Welty Writers’ Symposium s October 30-November 1 Decorative Arts & Preservation Forum/Antiques Show & Sale s November 2014 Ghosts & Legends s January 2015 DREAM 365: MLK Celebration s APRIL 6-18, 2015 75TH ANNUAL COLUMBUS SPRING PILGRIMAGE

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➺welcome home by MISSY S. MASSEY

5 Fabric Ideas for Tired Rooms

or that Mom bought at a garage sale. The fabric is generally awful. Any tips for where to begin in pulling the room together bit by bit and doing it in a way that maybe any recovered pieces will move on with us to the next phase of life?

MCL: Are there any rules of thumb about mixing patterns—stripes, prints, and florals? What elements make different patterns work together?

Actually, the only rules, in my opinion, are what you like and feel comfortable mixing! Some people like to really match colors and keep patterns very simple. Others go all out, mixing colors, textures, and patterns! Personally, I prefer to start with one bold pattern or color and branch out from that point. A favorite combination is a geometric pattern with a more free flowing design. We are seeing lots of “key” patterns in a variety of textures and color ways. That is a great pattern because it looks great with virtually anything! A true classic! You can mix polka dots with any pattern as well, keeping it playful and graphic. There are so many great patterns to work with today, like Ikats, zigzags and geometric prints. The sky is the limit; you know what you like—have confidence in your choices. I tell our customers that is doesn’t matter what’s “in” or what a designer or friend says—you have to love it in order to feel comfortable in your own home!

MCL: What about mixing textures? Is there a rule for that?

Mixing textures is a great way to add that “layered” look. If everything is the exact same texture, the end result may be quite bland. Some great ways to add texture to a room that may seem too flat are: a furry blanket, pillow or pouf ottoman. Textured rugs are also fun; sea grass rugs, shaggy, wool, or cotton, all make a wood floor or wall to wall carpet much more interesting.

MCL: In those first apartments we have, most of us start out with a good number of pieces that Grandmother gave us

Nothing is more fun than breathing new life into an older piece of furniture! What a great way to update handed down or yard sale treasures. I would say to look at the largest piece of furniture in the room and branch out from that point. Purchase fabrics that will coordinate with your long term decorating goals. People often work around things they don’t like in a room because they are afraid of making a mistake. A suggestion I would make is to choose solid fabrics and colors as a “base” and layer on patterns with pillows, rugs, artwork, vases and flowers.

MCL: What are the really popular trends in fabric in 2014? If we were going to update our 1980 look on a budget, what might be the biggest bang for the buck? Neutrals are the safest and best way to update a tired home. Again, Neutrals in various textures add personality when working with other colors that may be “hanging on”! We are seeing lots of burlaps, linens, cottons and velvets in tan, cream, taupe, and white. Think of cool, soft color palette and bring nature indoors. They work as a blank canvas for all the fun patterns you can layer on—zigzags, Ikats, stripes, and florals.

MCL: For a couple in a small first house they intend to live in with a toddler or two, what could they do with fabric coverings that would be both comfortable, attractive, and will hold up with kids? There are so many lovely faux leather, vinyl, and suede that are kid friendly and clean up well. Ottomans and pillows covered in a durable fabric in a great color or pattern can help hide sticky fingers and sippy cup spills! Also, you can spray a fabric protector on your furniture. Y Missy Stedman Massey runs her family’s Premier Fabrics Jackson location. Premier Fabrics is a family owned and operated business located in north Mississippi. Currently, there are five retail stores: Jackson, Tupelo, Meridian, Germantown, TN and now, Raleigh, NC.

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➺lagniappe

Focused on Fathering

Tracey Williamson and her father, Jerry Webb, the day before their surgeries.

A Tale of Two Kidneys By Tracey Williamson

It was around a year ago that my father told me he was being put on the active transplant list to receive a new kidney. This was surprising news to me—although he had been diagnosed with kidney disease many years ago, he had always managed it well with no complications. The disease was finally catching up with him and he needed a new kidney, so I began the testing process to see if I could be his donor. The testing evaluation is extensive, as the doctors are concerned with the health of the potential donor as well as the recipient. Once someone has been deemed an initial match through blood tests, the potential donor then undergoes a thorough battery of tests to ensure their donor eligibility. Every test I underwent showed a positive result, making me more certain with each step that this was God’s plan for me. Around January of this year, I was cleared to proceed with the transplant, yet my father was hesitant. He didn’t want me to do something that might compromise my health in the future, while my instinct was to force the issue and say, “Let’s do this right now!” But I felt the Lord telling me to wait for His time, not mine. So I prayed and waited. After a doctor’s appointment in March, my dad realized that the transplant needed to happen soon or he would be facing dialysis. In less than two weeks, we were at University Medical Center in Jackson prepping for our surgeries. The procedures went well for both my dad and me, and we were both allowed to go home just a few days after our surgeries. Still, the first week was a haze of pain management and bed rest for me. Seven days after the surgery, I got dressed and left the house for the first time. The occasion was my son’s awards day at school, and I was so pleased to 32 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

feel well enough to be there to support him. I left his school feeling encouraged and happy. Soon after I got home, I spoke with my mother on the phone. My father’s follow up visit had not gone as well as they had hoped. His creatinine level, which is the main indicator of kidney function, had gone up since he left the hospital. This was not a good sign, as the level should be going down after surgery. My mother said, “No one is saying the kidney is being rejected yet, but…” Instantly, the hope I had felt earlier in the day dissolved into anxiety. I began to pray and got really honest with God. “Lord,” I prayed, “I am in pain from having this surgery; I’ve made a sacrifice, and I was happy to do it, but please Lord, don’t let this be in vain!” I felt God say so clearly to me, “Tracey, that’s exactly how I feel.” It hit me that when God sacrificed his son for the sins of all people he said, “Don’t let this be in vain.” When we hear the Good News of what Jesus did for us and choose to reject it, how it must hurt the heart of God. I thought about the pain I was feeling at the moment and realized that it was nothing in comparison to the pain and suffering that our Lord went through for us. It was a humbling moment for me. I am happy and blessed to report that my father is now doing well with the kidney transplant. The skilled doctors at UMMC were able to adjust his meds, and he and I are both recovering well and looking forward to a healthy future. I would tell anyone who is considering kidney donation that it is an incredible feeling to help someone improve and sustain their life. But most importantly, I would encourage anyone who has not received the gift of eternal life to open your heart to God’s love for you. Don’t let His gift to us be in vain.

Know Me By Libbo Crosswhite

Two weeks before I gave birth to my baby girl, my family had the difficult task of laying my sweet grandmother Ruth to rest. She had suffered multiple illnesses for many years and although difficult to say goodbye, it was somewhat of a relief to see her finally reunited with her family. Saying goodbye to Ruth meant that both of my grandparents and my father were finally together again. It is quite miraculous how God uses seemingly difficult situations to completely change your outlook on life.

Mary Thomas, Libbo, and Clay Crosswhite

My father passed away when I was seven years old, so my memories of him are few and quite honestly vague. As I have gotten older, I have always desired to know more about who he was as a person. I didn’t know a whole lot about my dad, but I did know one thing—his favorite cousin was Sid. Through the years, it has been a treat to speak with Sid, especially about my dad. As Sid made his way through my grandmother’s visitation receiving line, we began talking about what we both loved dearly—my dad. Sid told me stories I was familiar with, but could hear a hundred times over as if I were a child hearing her favorite bedtime story. Then, Sid opened my eyes to a story I had never heard before. He began to tell me about meeting with my dad shortly after he was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of brain cancer. Sid explained that my dad was determined to fight—to take every type of new treatment that technology had to offer. My dad was realistic in knowing that he would most likely lose his battle with cancer, but he was determined to fight for time in this world. My brother and sister were much older and would have memories to cling to after he was gone and he wanted the same for me. My dad fought the hardest fight of his life for his 4-yearold daughter that would have no memory of him should he lose his battle within weeks or months. He fought his battle for me. As I sat in the car on the way home, I couldn’t help but weep at the lesson God had revealed—a lesson so desperately important to understand weeks before becoming a mother myself. Jesus longs for us to know Him and have a relationship with Him as my dad longed for us to have memories together. My dad suffered through countless procedures and surgeries so that his family could remember

how he lived. As Christians, we are called to bring others to Christ through sacrifice—to fight for the kingdom, fight for others to know Jesus, something my dad did for me. Although my dad wasn’t physically there to witness the birth of my sweet Mary Thomas, who was named after him, the lessons I learned from my dad were with me in the most painful and uncertain moments of my delivery. I felt God reminding me of the sacrifice my dad had made to know me. I cling to the promise of getting to know my dad when we are one day reunited and am comforted by 1 Peter 2:21, “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.” I praise God every day for the example my father set so long ago and the legacy that he left for our family.

My Dad in Retrospect By Walter Redden

This is a story about my Dad—a good man. “Bud” was his nickname. The only person I ever heard call him Walter was his friend, Mr. Walter Sillers, of Rosedale. Dad was born in 1892. He was reared in the community of Arnold in Bolivar County. There were two Arnolds, so the aldermen chose a new name and it was “Pace” – named after a pioneer in Walter Redden the community. My dad could have been a tough marine drill instructor, but he was a creampuff on the inside. When it came to discipline, especially for me, he was a man of few words—“Do the right thing” was his mantra. For a short period of time Dad was at “loose ends.” His older married sister talked him into moving to Missouri to work in a coal mine, but being a coal miner was short lived. Dad realized there must be a better way to make a living—that is, staying above ground and staying clean and healthy. Returning to Pace, his responsibilities became huge. His mother and younger twin sisters were under his care, so his “loose ends” came to a sudden halt. Dad literally built a house for his immediate family that also included a new wife. He secured a small plot of cotton land to begin farming. Dad was selected as road supervisor for the county, a position he held a very long time. He could handle both jobs because he was strong, well built and willing to work long hours. He toiled for many years as road supervisor, coming home completely exhausted, covered with grease or even creosote at times.

Dad did not have a formal education, but, had he had that privilege, he would have been a super engineer. His fun and pleasure was building a creosote bridge across a stream of water. He had the knowhow! First, he would build the pile driver with a welding torch, so, he could drive the bridge piles. Without hesitation, he would drive a truck to the creosote plant in Grenada for the bridge lumber needed to cover the flooring. He would take a sledgehammer and show his crew how to drive a large slanted nail to secure the floor. Last, he would jump on a bulldozer, then push the dirt and cover the headwall. Dad did it all! Building was his priority and he loved his work. For a short period of time, Dad was Mayor of Pace. Early until late was his work habit. Dad was a godly man, serving as Chairman of the Board of Deacons at this church. In the 1950s, Dad was visiting Jackson and saw a house that was of keen interest to him. He bought the house plans from the builder. With these house plans, Dad and a young Deacon friend built a parsonage for the minister of their church. Nothing fancy, but a comfortable home. Dad loved his church and he loved the Lord. At our house the question never arose what to do on Sunday. We had breakfast, bathed, dressed, and were off to Sunday school and church. Each of us kept an attendance record at Sunday school—thanks to Dad. His legacy lingers. Dad was not a card player, but he designed a plaque and engraved an adage that remains with me: “Success ain’t in holding a good hand, but in playing a poor hand well.” He played the game of life with honesty, sincerity, and integrity. At a late stage in life Dad developed macular degeneration. Because of this problem, I had to tell him he could no longer drive his car. I kept his keys. The toughest assignment I ever had was participating in my Dad’s funeral. If I were to have a wish, it might be to speak to Dad and say, “Here are your keys.” The last line of the 23rd Psalm is so fitting for Dad; “I will dwell in the house of the Lord (that is security) forever (that is eternity).”

Bill Moore and his father, Jim, in 1987 at Bill's graduation from Ole Miss.

“Enough” By Bill Moore

Some fathers, from what I understand, Told their sons “I love you” And hugged them here and there And constantly reminded them That their love was everywhere But I had never heard those words Or felt his warm embrace And never thought much of it Or seen it as a curse No, I never doubted his love Or missed his embrace I simply knew I always knew That his love was just there—thick as smoke And stable as the US Marine Corps— Throwing baseball after work And reading stories before bed And devotions every morning at breakfast Every. Single. Morning. Putting on a suit day after day And never saying he was worn out Or that he’d had a tough day Never raising his voice Or talking unkindly to us And his patience was like nothing I have seen since He was gentle—even in discipline—always Washed the dishes and wiped the table every night after supper Not almost every night But every night And afterwards would sit in his chair and light his pipe Every. Single. Night. Ah, the aroma of the Cherokee pipe tobacco That told us that everything was OK And that some things don’t change And that he was in charge And we could, therefore, relax Simply because he was there (I keep a small pouch of Cherokee in my bedside drawer And sometimes catch a whiff And know that everything is, surely, OK)… Last night I hugged my son, As men of my generation do, And reminded him that I love him And, walking down the steps, I wondered Does he really know, the way I knew? And does he feel that everything is OK Simply because I am there? I do not know the answer And likely never will I only know that while words are good And hugs are not bad, My father’s life of consistent love lived-out Spoke louder and more clearly Than a word or a hug And, for me, it was more than enough. mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 33

➺food for thought

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work.”

by LYDIA BOLEN

– John 4:34

Favorite Dishes to Celebrate Dad

ather’s Day is a perfect time to prepare special meals for Dad.Why not try a few new recipes, along with his old favorites, to surprise him all month long?

Eggs Benedict sounds difficult to prepare, but it is really quite simple.Your family will enjoy this delicious treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a unique dinner meal. BBQ Chopped Salad paired with grilled steaks or hamburgers is a different side dish. This salad uses several types of lettuces and cabbages, so extras (without the dressing) can be stored in the refrigerator for days. What is more fun than preparing a favorite Mexican dish at home! My easy Chicken Fajitas can be made in your own kitchen or outdoor grill. Happy Father’s Day! Y

CHICKEN FAJITAS 4 2 1 1/2 1 1 1 1/2 1/2 1/2

EGGS BENEDICT

BBQ RANCH CHOPPED SALAD

4 pieces of Canadian bacon 2 tablespoons chopped chives or paprika for garnish 4 eggs 2 English muffins, split Butter Blender Hollandaise: 10 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 egg yolks 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon salt dash of cayenne or Tabasco sauce

1 cup green cabbage, chopped 1 cup red cabbage, chopped 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce, chopped 2 cups baby kale, chopped 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup carrots, chopped 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds 2 green onions, chopped 1/2 cup seasoned tortilla strips (for garnish) 1/2 cup Ranch dressing (I use the original Good Seasons) 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (use your favorite kind)

Melt 10 tablespoons unsalted butter. Put 3 egg yolks, a tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt in a blender. Blend on medium-high for 20-30 seconds. Eggs should be light in color. Turn setting to low, and slowly dribble in the hot melted butter, continuing to blend. Add a dash of cayenne. Place in a container and keep warm. Place buttered split English muffins and Canadian bacon on a cookie sheet. Place this under the broiler for a few minutes. Poach eggs in a regular egg poacher. To assemble, place an English muffin on each plate, top with a piece of Canadian bacon, follow with an egg, and then top with a generous helping of warm Hollandaise sauce. Garnish with chopped chives or with a sprinkle of paprika. Yield: 4 servings. 34 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

In a large bowl, toss together the cabbages, lettuces, kale, carrots and cilantro. Stir together the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing. Pour about half of the dressing over the salad greens along with the cheese, toasted seeds, and green onions. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Top with crispy tortilla strips and serve. Serve extra dressing on the side.

tablespoons canola oil, divided tablespoons lime juice teaspoons seasoned salt teaspoon dried oregano teaspoon ground cumin teaspoon garlic powder teaspoon chili powder teaspoon paprika teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional 1/4 cup fresh cilantro 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips. (If using an outdoor grill, don’t cut into strips until chicken is cooked) 3 bell peppers (one each green, yellow, and red), julienned 1/2 cup purple onion or green onions 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 6 flour tortillas (8-inch size), warmed Shredded cheddar cheese, taco sauce, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and sour cream can be used for toppings.

In a large re-sealable plastic bag, combine 2 tablespoons canola oil, lime juice and all seasonings; add chicken to the mixture. Seal bag and turn to coat; refrigerate for 1-4 hours. In a large skillet, sauté peppers and onions in remaining 2 tablespoons of oil until crisp-tender. Remove and keep warm. Discard the marinade. In the same skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes or until no longer pink. Return pepper mixture to pan; heat through. Spoon filling down the center of each tortilla; fold in half. Serve with sides of shredded cheese, taco sauce, salsa, guacamole, sour cream or shredded lettuce. Yield: 6 servings. Y

Remember to make memories through the kitchen— “the heartbeat of the home.” E-mail me at lbbolen@gmail.com for any questions.

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➺sports victories by ROBERT WILSON

Ross Mitchell

Faith off the Mound

On a day Mississippi State junior pitcher Ross Mitchell might consider as one of the most disappointing moments of his career, Mitchell will instead remember it as one of his highlights.

The reason? Mitchell’s focus is on Jesus Christ and not himself. Mitchell went undefeated in his first two seasons at Mississippi State, but lost for the first time earlier this year in a 7-6 decision to Santa Barbara in Arizona. But his disappointment turned to joy after helping disciple another brother in Christ. “That’s how God works—in a moment when I could have gotten down on myself, He allowed me to share His Word with a teammate,” Mitchell said. “(First baseman) Wes Rea had been asking some questions about the Bible and we were able to get together after the game and study Revelation. Wes is a Christian, but had some questions and wanted to learn more about the Bible. It was definitely more important to me what we did after the game than what I did during the game. It was great that I was able to share God’s love with someone like Wes.” “Ross called me later that evening and I thought that maybe he was discouraged after losing the game,” Mississippi State baseball chaplain Matt Jolley said. “I was ready to encourage him after the loss, but when I answered he was so excited and asked if I had a few minutes to talk. One of his teammates (Rea) who He had been praying for a lot wanted to meet later that night and talk about the book of Revelation. We spent the next 30 minutes on the phone going over the main themes of Revelation and the return of Christ. To Ross getting to share with his teammate that night was greater than anything that could have happened on the field that day or any day. His focus truly is on God's glory and the gifts and talents God has given him to see others come to know the Lord and to encourage those who do know the Lord to seek after Him with all their heart.” Mitchell admits he hasn’t always been as 36 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

solid a Christian as he is now. “I grew up in a Christian home (the son of Charlie and Gina Mitchell) and my parents explained to me what Jesus did for me and I accepted Christ in my living room when I was young,” Mitchell said. “I knew all about Jesus and about what He did.” Mitchell, from Smyrna, Tennessee, became more committed to Christ after he came to Mississippi State. During Christmas break his freshman year Mitchell attended the Passion Conference in Atlanta. “I didn’t cuss, smoke, or drink, but I wasn’t getting much fruit from being a Christian,” Mitchell said. “They asked a question at the Passion about giving up something that wasn’t

a good influence. Mine was music. I wasn’t listening to good music. I was listening to dirty rap music and that didn’t glorify God. So one night I deleted all the bad songs and dedicated myself to only put clean music that glorified God. “My first step in having a relationship with Christ was reading His Word every day and rewriting it in my own words. I read the Bible while I am riding the bus and try to get into His Word.You never know who is watching because I have teammates who say they have seen me doing that.You can either be a good or bad influence on people and I choose to live out my faith each and every moment. The devil makes you believe you can do everything yourself, but God teaches us to trust Him and always go to Him for guidance in our decisions. “

“Ross’ first couple years here at State, he would come to chapel and some of the team Bible studies, but outside of that he wasn't very outspoken about his faith,” Jolley said. “When he came back from Christmas break two years ago he was just a totally different person. God really used that to get him off the bench and into the game and he has been seeking to know the Lord and make Him known ever since.” Mitchell’s family knows baseball. His father, Charlie, and his uncle, John, both played in the major leagues. And Ross is on that same track. He was named an All-American after going 13-0 with a 1.53 earned run average and helped the Bulldogs to a national championship runner-up finish at the College World Series. He has been one of the top pitchers this year as well, and helped the Bulldogs reach another NCAA Tournament appearance. “As determined and fearless as Ross is on the mound, he is the same in his relationship with Christ,” Jolley said. “Every day he is reading God's Word and writing all he learns in his journal and every week when we meet he always has questions about things he has been reading. Ross has such a desire to grow and to see others grow. He is constantly going out to speak to local schools, youth groups, and FCA meetings. Ross knows that he will only have this platform for a short time and wants to use it to share about the Lord as much as he can.” Y

Robert Wilson is Business Developer for BFAC. He is a freelance writer, author, and publisher. He is a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church. Contact him at Robert@bfac.com.

mschristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; JUNE 2014 37

➺legal advice by ELIZABETH WYNN

Planning For Long-Term Care

odern medicine has ensured a much longer life span for most of us. People are living longer, but not always “better,” which often requires an extended stay in a health care facility. The cost of nursing home

care in Mississippi averages between $6,000$8,000 per month, or $75,000-$100,000 per year. Very few people are equipped to pay these costs out of retirement and social security income alone. The average nursing home stay in Mississippi is three years, more than enough time to lose your life’s savings. If you don’t have unlimited funds, how will you cover the cost of a nursing home? If you don’t want to lose everything you’ve worked your entire life to attain, you will want to plan. Everyone should seriously consider long-term care insurance, an excellent way to avoid the hassle and stress that come with nursing home planning. First, you may be entitled to a state and federal income tax credit. Second, beginning July 1, 2014, the state will increase the amount of assets you are allowed to keep when entering a nursing home on Medicaid benefits. However, long-term care insurance is often too expensive for older people and, if the applicant is already sick, may be uninsurable.

HOWELL KYLE & WYNN, PLLC ATTORNEYS AT LAW

If you can’t qualify for nursing home insurance, or can't put it in your budget, what options do you have regarding payment for nursing home care? Medicaid is here to provide help for eligible individuals. Unfortunately, because they are misinformed, many people believe they will never qualify for this assistance. Many common mistakes or myths regarding state assistance can quickly get you in trouble. ✦ Thinking it’s too late to plan. While planning well in advance of the need is certainly ideal, it’s not necessary. It’s almost never too late to do some planning, even after one has entered a nursing home. ✦ Applying only when there are no assets left. You are not required to spend it all, and certainly not only on your care.You need to be aware that there are some exceptions. ✦ Applying too soon. This often results in a longer ineligibility period. ✦ Applying too late. This can mean needlessly losing eligible months and wasting precious assets. ✦ Giving away assets and immediately applying. Timing is critical in this context.You will be disqualified from receiving benefits, but for how long? There are circumstances when the disqualification period can be reduced with just a little analysis and planning.

✦ Failing to protect the spouse at home. The rules do not require the community spouse to be impoverished. The spouse at home is actually allowed to keep a significant amount of assets. Also, the income of this spouse is not needed for the nursing home spouse. However, in some cases some or all of the nursing home spouse’s income can be given to the spouse at home. ✦ Not getting help before applying. This is a complicated field, and thankfully most people will only deal with it once in their lives. It’s imperative to get advice from those who focus on helping clients through the process of legally and ethically preserving the maximum amount possible.

Unfortunately, many people hear a discouraging statement or get improper advice and abandon their attempt to receive benefits. Much can be gained from accurate information and good legal advice from an experienced attorney. The quality of our lives is important from beginning to end. With a just a little planning early on, we can be assured of a comfortable life when we need it the most. Y Elizabeth Wynn is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and practices law in Ridgeland. She and her family live in Madison.

YOU·VE WORKED HARD FOR IT³WHY THROW IT AWAY? While you are alive, you can and should make all decisions and manage your personal affairs. What if you become incompetent? What happens at your death? Who will take over and manage your affairs? Will it be someone you chose or the court chose? How is that done? Will it be outside of court or in court? The same questions arise with the distribution of your assets. What about protecting your FKLOG·V LQKHULWDQFH IURP D GLYRUFH RU D ODZVXLW" :LOO \RXU KDUG-earned savings go to the nursing home? Have you ever asked yourself these questions? Howell Kyle & Wynn, PLLC is committed to providing you with the knowledge and tools needed to avoid these types of situations which can be financially and emotionally devastating to your loved ones. Below are some items to consider:

Our life expectancy has increased, but are all of us going to be in good health in our old age? Unfortunately, we have no way of knowing what the future holds for ourselves and our families. Howell Kyle & Wynn, PLLC is dedicated to providing you and your family a plan that offers true peace of mind.

1-800-839-7857 www.HowellElderLaw.com 38 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

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Christian Faith in the Old Testament Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson Christian Faith in the Old Testament brings to fruition more than 30 years of study and service for Dr. Gareth (Gary) Cockerill, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Biblical Interpretation and Theology at Wesley Biblical Seminary. Studying the book of Hebrews, with its emphasis on the Old Testament, began the process. Further study plus teaching in Sierra Leone, West Africa, added to his passion for showing the unity of Scripture. Missionary experience might seem a strange addition to the picture, but teaching with English as a second language for his students, many of whom had no Biblical background, forced him to consider ways to make the message understandable. He later found that he had trouble addressing either animistic or Muslim world views without a solid knowledge of how Christ fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies. For those of us who are already Christians, Dr. Cockerill says, “The thing I want people to grasp is the unity of the Bible and the continuing relevance of the Old Testament and of each of its parts. The whole setting emphasizes both the deep need for fellowship with God and the horrible separation that human rebellion has brought between us and God. To read the New Testament without the Old is like reading only the last chapter of a novel.” His desire comes from a pastoral concern for others’ faith, not academic hairsplitting. When Christians neglect the Old Testament, he says that “we are likely to have a trivial idea of God, a superficial understanding of sin, and thus a very inadequate view of salvation.” He unfolds the full story for readers in Christian Faith in the Old Testament. The book follows the Old Testament in order, showing how each piece lays a foundation for the next until finally everything comes together as Jesus fulfills the prophesies. Along the way he points out principles we can use for applying Old Testament stories today. For those who are more visual, the text includes many diagrams to help understand the material. Not that the book is hard to read. Dr. Cockerill took care to make the book accessible to lay readers. As he says, “The book is dedicated to helping ordinary, intelligent, modern Christians establish their apostolic roots in the Old Testament, the Bible of the Apostles.” If you count yourself among the group of “intelligent Christians,” this book makes a good choice for study. Any reader serious about grasping and applying Scripture more fully will

benefit from the material offered. Don’t plan to read quickly. The content is rich and requires thoughtful consideration. The meaning emerges more clearly as you unwrap and ponder each piece. Seeing how the Bible fits together in a single unifying message changes your perspective. Pastors all along the Evangelical spectrum offer endorsements, making the book accessible across denominations. Christian Faith in the Old Testament is also perfect for a Sunday school class or a book group looking for something deeper. Y Susan E. Richardson is a writer, critique reader, and former Christian retailer with a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word.You can reach her through her website www.nextlevelcritiques.com.

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➺what’s going on Warfield Riverfest Benefitting Camp Looking Glass he excitement is building around the new Warfield Riverfest to be held on the banks of the Mississippi River at Warfield Point Park in Greenville on Father's Day weekend, June 14. It’s slated to be one of the most

exciting festivals to hit the Delta. The proceeds generated from this event will go to Camp Looking Glass, a non-profit organization that provides free volunteer-run recreational activities for children and young adults with disabilities. Established in 2004, Camp Looking Glass is excited to celebrate its 10th anniversary this summer. Since its inception, Camp Looking Glass has operated on a totally volunteer basis, with young adults coming from across the country to work one-on-one with the campers at Leroy Percy Park for a week. As one of just three camps in the U.S. of its kind, Camp Looking Glass is in the planning stages of building a permanent facility to continue and expand its activities. The early morning family Fun Run is just the beginning of an entire day slammed full of fun activities for everyone to enjoy, from the Monster Slide to an incredible headline performance by Cleveland’s own talented musical group, Southern Halo. Sponsors and a variety of vendors are getting on board to provide everything a festivalgoer could want. “We are so excited about the festival being held out at Warfield Park,” stated Hal Holbrook, co-chair of the event. “We are going to make this day one that your family won’t soon forget! We want

40 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

families and friends to be able to come early and spend the entire day, playing, eating and enjoying the music together in an atmosphere that only the park on the river can offer. There will be something for everyone to enjoy,” Holbrook continued. And what a worthy cause to support! For more information about sponsoring or volunteering for this event, or about specific activities please visit warfieldriverfest.com.

➺

events calendar June 7

June 14

An Evening with Uncle Si and Martin to benefit Home of Hope for Children. Program starts at 5 p.m. and will feature stories and conversation live on stage. Visit hohfc.org or Miss103.com for ticket packages and more information.

Firefly Market from 4–8 p.m. in Clinton’s Olde Towne district. Original art, gifts, fresh produce, homemade treats, and entertainment. 601.924.5472

June 14-15

GREENVILLE June 14 Warfield Riverfest at Warfield Park is a family-friendly festival featuring food, live music, early morning family fun run, and activities for everyone. Proceeds go to help fund Camp Looking Glass, a summer camp for special needs campers. warfieldriverfest.com

JACKSON June 2-5 Fondren Community Family Bible School. Fondren Church, St. Luke's United Methodist Church, and Woodland Hills Baptist Church come together to provide an exciting experience for the entire family! Snack supper at 5:15 p.m. followed by classes and activities until 7:30 p.m. While the kids learn about the love of Jesus through scripture and fun activities, the adults can participate in classes focused on various parenting topics. This funfilled week culminates in a community-wide celebration that coincides with Fondren After 5. Register online at fondrenchurch.com or call 601.906.8107.

June 3 Snake Day at the Museum of Natural Science from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and learn how to distinguish between venomous and nonvenomous snakes. msnaturalscience.org

Sesame Street Live “Can’t Stop Singing” comes to the MS Coliseum! 2–3:00 p.m. Enjoy all the Sesame Street crew! sesamestreetlive.com

June 14-29

place at Old Trace Park from 7 a.m.–2 p.m. For more info, call 601.853.2011 or visit heatwavetri.racesonline.com.

June 16-19 “Converge” is a program hosted by Highland Colony Baptist Church at Ann Smith Elementary School on the playground at 306 Pear Orchard Road. 6:30–8 p.m. A great opportunity for elementary age children to enjoy music, Bible story presentations, games, and crafts in a fun, safe environment. hcbc.net

USA International Ballet Competition 2014 comes to Thalia Mara Hall for a two-week, “Olympic-style” competition where tomorrow’s stars vie for medals, cash awards, company contracts, and scholarships. Order online anytime at www.usaiabc.com or by calling 601.973.9249 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

June 28

PEARL

TUPELO

Independence Day Celebration at 115 Madison Landing Circle. Old Trace Park and Lakeshore Park host a day of activities including live music, fireworks, and a boat parade. barnettreservoirfoundation.org

June 5-8

June 14 Mississippi Gospel Jubilee at Trinity Baptist Church, 2610 Napoleon Drive begins at 5:30 p.m. An extravaganza of gospel music, performances will be given by singers and groups of all ages from all parts of the state. Free admission, with a love offering taken.

RIDGELAND

The annual Elvis Festival celebrates Tupelo’s famous son. Family entertainment featuring regional, national, and local artists along with a Sunday Gospel Concert. Features a number of local food vendors, a carnival midway, pet parade, beauty pageant, 5K run, disc golf, movie poster exhibit, and much more. TupeloElvisFestival.com Y

June 7 The 26th Heatwave Classic Triathlon takes

101B Village Blvd, Madison, Mississippi 39110

(601) 607-6004

We believe that every moment matters. Maybe that’s why so many families believe in us when it comes to choosing a hospice provider. Ask us about volunteer opportunities. Provide the gift of companionship and a listening ear to a family facing a life-limiting illness. For more information or to receive our free DVD, “Hospice and Your Loved One,” call 601-983-3193. gentiva.com/hospice

Flowood, MS

phone 601-983-3193 / fax 601-983-3194 Magee, MS

COLLECTION CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

STORE HOURS: Monday through Friday 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

phone 601-849-5803 / fax 601-849-5805 Gentiva accepts patients for care regardless of age, race, color national origin, religion, sex, disability, being a qualified disabled veteran, being a qualified disabled veteran of MKT3144 the Vietnam era, or any other category protected by law, or decisions regarding advance directives. © 2014 Gentiva Health Services, Inc.

PRIVATE COLLECTION CONSIGNMENT mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 41

JUNE 2014

CLINTON

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISER INDEX ADVERTISING PARTNERS

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Cut out the scriptures and quotes and place them around your home for daily encouragement!

✂

The Bible tells us that God will meet all our needs. He feeds the birds of the air and clothes the grass with the splendor of lilies. How much more, then, will He care for us, who are made in His image? Our only concern is to obey the heavenly Father and leave the consequences to Him.

In the very place where God has put us, whatever its limitations, whatever kind of work it may be, we may indeed serve the Lord Christ. – Elisabeth Elliot

– Charles Stanley

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” – LUKE 15:20 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – ROMANS 5:8

Small boys become big men through the influence of big men who care about small boys. – Anonymous

There are no adequate substitutes for father, mother, and children bound together in a loving commitment to nurture and protect. No government, no matter how wellintentioned, can take the place of the family in the scheme of things. – Gerald R. Ford

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. – Jesus Christ

It is admirable for a man to take his son fishing, but there is a special place in heaven for a man who takes his daughter shopping. – John Sinor

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all you strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” – DEUTERONOMY 6: 5-7

We pray for love for others, and God sends unique suffering by sending people our way who are difficult to love and who say things that get on our nerves and tear at our heart. He does this because “love is patient, love is kind…It is not rude…it is not easily angered…It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” – L.B. Cowman, Streams in the Desert

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Dr. Jeb Cade Dr. Adrian Whittington Dr. Jonathan Faulkner Dr. Melisa McLendon OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: Boarding only 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

601-982-8261 Boarding & Grooming Services Available

42 JUNE 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

Becoming a Christian is the work of a moment; being a Christian is the work of a lifetime. – Billy Graham

“Blessed is the people of whom this is true: blessed is the people whose God is the Lord.” – PSALM 144:15

PAGE

Belhaven University..................................................5 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi...................35 C Spire.......................................................................3 Callaway's Yard & Garden.......................................2 Camp Looking Glass .............................................40 Caring Transitions ..................................................13 Choose Life Mississippi .........................................19 Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau............29 Covenant Caregivers.............................................30 Dogwood Vision Care...........................................14 East Lakeland Ob-Gyn Associates, PA ................35 Energy Insulation ...................................................17 EyeCare Professionals ...........................................20 First Presbyterian Day School...............................31 Gentiva Hospice ....................................................41 Grantham Poole Certified Public Accountants...31 Highland Village .......................................................9 Howell, Kyle & Wynn, PLLC, Attorneys at Law...38 Jackson Academy..................................................21 Jackson Preparatory School....................................9 Methodist Children's Home .................................43 Methodist Rehabilitation Center..........................21 Miskelly Furniture.....................................................8 Mississippi State University...................................25 MWG Senior Services ...........................................16 N. State Animal Hospital.......................................42 O! How Cute..........................................................17 Palmer Home for Children......................................9 Pennington & Trim Alarm Services, Inc..................2 Persnickety .............................................................27 Phillips Financial .....................................................26 Premier Fabrics ......................................................31 Private Collection...................................................41 Raborn Media..................................................20, 37 Reformed Theological Seminary..........................27 Sitters, LLC................................................................9 Smiles by Design ...................................................19 Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company..13 St. Dominic's Family Medicine .............................44 St. Dominic's, Dr. Phillip B. Ley.............................15 Stegall Imagery ......................................................37 Summit Counseling ...............................................10 Taru Books..............................................................28 Tinnin Imports...........................................................7 Transformations River Oaks ..................................11 Trustmark................................................................29 Venable Glass Services..........................................39 WHJT Star 93.5......................................................43 Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home.......................31 Written in Stone, LLC............................................39

If I gave everything I have to the poor & even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. – 1 Corinthians 13:3

real love.

real acceptance.

www.star93fm.com mschristianliving.com ❘ JUNE 2014 43

ST. DOMINIC’S FAMILY MEDICINE St. Dominic’s doctors are focused on one mission: convenient, compassionate care for you and your family. Let us partner with you for your healthcare needs. Same day appointments available

CALL 601-200-8000 FOR YOUR ST. DOMINIC’S DOCTOR. www.stdom.com/clinics