September 2014 Mississippi Christian Living by Mississippi Christian Living

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contents SEPTEMBER 2014 Join our Mississippi Mobile Club Today! Text MCLAPP to 95577 and download our Mobile App for free! Text stop 2 quit. Standard data rates apply.

Volume 9, Number 3 Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A. Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@mschristianliving.com Associate Editor: Suzanne Durfey

columns 8 The Way I See It “Doing” the Gospel

10 Let’s Talk It Over My Sin, My Shame, and Christ’s Scandalous Grace

12 This Is My Story Miss Mississippi Talks Faith

15 The Middle Ages A Meaningful Life

16 Modern Motherhood Small Moments and Lessons That Last

features

19 Christian Commerce

Chip and Christy Henderson

College Corner

Real and Relevant

20 Living My Call Stormie Omartian to Speak at Broadmoor

22 Food for Thought Cool Dips

22 10

38 Education Connection From A Son’s View

40 Legal Advice Living Trust or LLC?

43 What’s Going On

Living Proof: Lucas Daniel Boyce in Tupelo to Headline 2014 Celebration of Adoption

in every issue

16 What’s Coming Next Month? Joni Eareckson Tada A Life Well Lived

6 44 45 46 46

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

Sales Marilyn Tinnin, Kimberly Stephens, Suzanne Durfey, Jill Waycaster West, Tara Dowden, Ashley J. Smith Jenny Ruth Kennedy Contributing Writers Lydia Bolen, Nancy Flowers, Sherye S. Green, Maggie Ingram, Will McNeese, Zach New, Susan E. Richardson, Elizabeth Wynn, Martin E. Willoughby, Jr. Cover Photography Stegall Imagery Distribution Assistants Avery Cahee, 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 The Certainty of “Surely” He who dwells in the shelter of the Most high will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and fortress, my God, in whom I trust. Surely He will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.” (Psalm 91:1–3). ow can it be almost Labor Day? This summer has gone by in a blink! I have spent the last four months traveling to our new markets, meeting new friends and learning a lot about the real meaning of the phrase, “expanding the magazine.” Lesson #1: This requires more energy than I thought. FYI,

H Associate Editor Suzanne Durfey and I attended Living Proof Live with Beth Moore in Memphis in late August. Wonderful way to end the summer!

❝

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

❞

– PSALM 23: 6

sweating is not on my short list of fun things to do. The truth is I have never been one to be overly cautious about a new challenge—a trait of which I am not particularly proud. More than one person close to me has used the word, ‘impulsive’ in their well-intentioned criticism of my full-steam-ahead method of operation. However, I have seen God use my total naiveté often to get me started on things I would never have attempted if I had taken the time to sit down and mull it over for very long. With all of that being said, I confess that I am kind of exhausted at the moment, and it is not a surprise that I am pulling out Psalm 91 and basking in the comforting thought of “dwelling” and “resting” and being “saved” from harm. On this Sunday afternoon as I sit down to write this letter, I hope I will be halfway coherent. Over the past several months I have also thought and said out loud in more than a few prayers, “Lord, it would have been a whole lot easier to have done this 10 years ago when I was sharper and younger.” Soon after that observation, God reminded me of Abraham. He was 75 when God told him to leave everything he knew and go to a new place. As if that wasn’t enough, God also gave him the news that he was going to be a new father. I am glad scripture also tells us his wife Sarah laughed at the prospect. That detail surely makes the story more real. I can just imagine what went through her mind. “Abraham, you have been working too hard. Come sit down and let me explain to you why that is most certainly not going to happen.” However, I am not laughing over this assignment. The thought of taking this magazine, which is like my BABY, to other markets scares me to death in some ways and excites me to pieces in other ways. I very much realize that God’s method of operation is always to equip the called— rather than to call the equipped—lest any of us think we managed to accomplish some good work solely on our own merits. A few weeks ago I had this “epiphany,” a word I am using loosely. In my daily devotionals, I realized how often the word “surely” kept popping up. I did a short survey via Bible Gateway on the word “surely” in scripture. The Bible uses the word at least 300 times, and not all of them are related to good news. But it seems that if God’s word said “surely” then it meant exactly that. He is not the parent whose threats or promises are “iffy.” If the Word says “surely,” you can take it to the bank. The word can remove a lot of anxiety from the “what ifs” of the present moment. So, on this late August afternoon when I am dead tired and the breaking news is telling me that the world is totally out of control from one side of the globe to the other, I am loving to read about “surely” from God’s point of view, and I’m thinking, “He’s got this—everything, everywhere—and it’s a sure thing.” September is in some ways more like New Year’s than January 1. Along with football season, routines and schedules begin anew with the new school year. With great expectations, we begin a new journey. We hope you find within these pages some nugget that inspires, comforts, and energizes you in the “surely” realm of God’s perfect plan for you. Y Much love,

6 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

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

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

“Doing” the Gospel

On August 28, 2012, my brother-in-law, Craig Ivy, had a one-car accident on a county road in rural Madison County. He flew through the windshield of his Toyota truck and a passerby eventually found him lying semiconscious on the side of the road. He was rushed to University of Mississippi Medical Center where for days he battled on the thin line between life and death. His injuries included broken C5 and C6 vertebrae and a badly damaged spinal cord, which left him essentially paralyzed from the neck down. Craig was very gifted with his hands and could fix almost anything. That gift had allowed him to provide for his wife, Kim, and teenage son. As I have come to find out, quadriplegics are susceptible to many health problems, including bedsores, which Craig has patiently endured. The long, slow recovery from the accident decimated the family’s savings, and they have found themselves struggling simply to survive. God works in “Let us not become weary in mysterious ways. Craig’s doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we wife, Kim, frequently gets his medical supplies do not give up. Therefore, as we from Polk’s Drugs Store have opportunity, let us do good in Brandon. Kimberly to all people, especially to those Dear, the home health manager at Polk’s, got to who belong to the family know Kim and learned of of believers.” – GALATIANS 6:9–10 their situation. She contacted her son’s Boy Scouts leader, Chris Blake, who is part of a group always looking to lend a helping hand to those in need. Blake surveyed the small duplex where the Ivy’s live and realized it was ill equipped for a quadriplegic. He coordinated a group of fellow churchgoers from St. Mark’s Methodist Church to put their faith into action. One of the members actually knew the landlord and received permission to modify the duplex for Craig’s needs.

In a beautiful display of God’s love, these faithful men and women completely remodeled the duplex to accommodate Craig’s disability. For weeks, they would work all day at their regular jobs then come over at night and work until late in the evening at the Ivy’s home. Their spouses would bring over food each night and fellowship with the family. Upon completion of the project, a large group came over to celebrate Craig’s birthday and dedicate the home to God. A feast was held and God’s love poured out in prayer. The family, which was previously unchurched, is now regularly attending, and church members regularly help out by picking up their teenage son and allowing him to worship with other young men and women of faith in youth activities. I share this story because I believe it captures the essence of Christian faith. Craig’s family did nothing to deserve the lavish gifts of time, money, and love they received. They will never be able to repay those who toiled late into the evening to improve their home. It was a gift to be joyfully received. As I think about the men and women who so freely shared God’s love, I am reminded of Galatians 6:9-10, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” As we go through our daily lives often dealing with the tyranny of the urgent, it is easy to miss out on opportunities for doing good. While there are many needs to be filled by Christians on mission trips, there are also opportunities to demonstrate God’s grace in love in our everyday lives. I am inspired by the sacrificial love these faithful believers shared with the Ivy family, and I hope to better act on the Holy Spirit’s promptings like these believers did—to do good whenever and wherever I can in the name of Christ. 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 WILL MCNEESE, LPC, LMFTA

My Sin, My Shame, and Christ’s Scandalous Grace

In my life, I find myself vacillating between two extreme modes of operating. One is to relentlessly beat

myself up over my mistakes and failures. I am quite skilled at this. All manner of mistakes feeds this mode of operating equally. I will feel the same amount of degradation for “little” sins as I do for “big” sins. I languish over the classically “Christian” sins—like not reading my Bible or avoiding the homeless people—to the same degree as relapsing from sobriety or despising my wife and child. The other extreme mode of operating gets triggered when I become fed up with beating myself up. At this point, I throw my hands in the air and say a colorful version of “I don’t give a flip!” I then indulge in what I have been fighting against for so long and attempt to numb myself to feeling any form of guilt.

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For years, I believed that the first extreme is the way we should live as Christians. However, as I have had more encounters with Jesus, I have become increasingly disillusioned by the effectiveness of either extreme. Neither brings me peace with God, others, or myself. When I beat myself up, the predominant emotion I live with is shame. My shame sends me the message that I am fundamentally flawed—even more so than my fellow humans—and that I am completely unlovable by God. I am unsure of what the appropriate response to shame is; however, I know that the typical response is to hide. This is clearly illustrated by Adam and Eve. When they saw that they were naked, they felt shame and hid from God. Shame drives me away from God, away from community, and into isolation. This isolation is paralyzing and debilitating. Beating myself up is also very selffocused. My attention is completely absorbed by my own evaluation of my performance. I withhold affection from myself unless I feel like I have performed well enough to deserve it. This mode of operating tends to fixate on some truths and neglect or ignore other truths. Perhaps the most dangerous flaw in this operating mode is how often it leads to self-deception, denial, and delusional thinking. At our core, we want to avoid feeling shame and we will go to great lengths to accomplish this. I hide my shame by “paying for my sins” through good deeds or acts of penance. The flaws in the “not giving a flip” mode of operating are more self-evident. Living without care for our actions or consequences is self-destructive. We were created to live healthy and pure lives. The moral structure God has given us reflects what is good and healthy. When we abandon this, we embrace and invite further suffering. In my life, this mode of operating becomes triggered as a response to feeling bad all the time. In this way it can be a self-protective response, similar to an abused child fighting back against his abusers. As I have gotten to know this part of me, as destructive and misguided as it is, I have some compassion for what it is

trying to achieve—stopping the pain. These two extreme modes of operating, which may appear to be polar opposites have many similarities. I have used both modes of operating to help me avoid the painful truth that I am truly broken. Like Adam and Eve, I sew fig leaves to hide my naked shame. Sometimes these fig leaves look like holding on to the hope that if I shame myself enough, I will stop behaving badly. Other times, these fig leaves take the form of denial and emotional numbing. Both modes of operating keep me from Jesus. The truth is that Jesus operates out of neither extreme. He neither pretends that we have no flaws, nor does he beat us up about our mistakes. One of the most poignant illustrations of this is in his parable of the two sons. The father in this story allows his youngest son to take his share of the inheritance and spend it on prostitutes, drinking, and gambling. When the son realizes that he is hungry, he returns home. But his father, seeing him from a long way off turns towards his unrepentant son and lavishes him with love. It is this kind of love that changes hearts— love that is truly not deserved. Jesus loved me first. He turned towards me when I was sitting in my unrepentant shame and he loved me. As painful and uncomfortable as this is, it is my only hope. My most tangible experience of this truth has come from being honest with fellow believers who have a firm grasp of how radically they are loved by Jesus. Being exposed and loved in their presence has opened my ears to hear my savior say, “Son thy sins are all forgiven.” If only I would treat myself, and my friends, as Jesus has treated me. Y

Will McNeese, LPC, LMFTA, is a counselor at Summit Counseling with experience working with families and individuals, including children and adolescents. He can be reached at wmcneese@fbcj.org.

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➺this is my story by NANCY FLOWERS

Miss Mississippi Talks Faith

rowing up in a single-parent home, Miss Mississippi Jasmine Murray learned what strong faith looks like. Her mother, Lisa Murray, struggled to

raise five children, and worked several jobs to make ends meet. Though there were challenges at every turn, Jasmine knew that they made it because her mother trusted Jesus for everything. “She stressed faith, not just going to church,” says Jasmine. “She taught us that Jesus is the most important relationship in life. That we made it through shows how amazing God is.” Jasmine, a Columbus native, is a President’s List scholar at Mississippi State University pursuing a degree in broadcasting. She has volunteered for several organizations in her community including the American Red Cross, Windsor Nursing Home, Boys and Girls Club, and the Mayor’s Youth Council. But her passion is singing. She has performed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Regis and Kelly, as well as live performances for events across the country. She is perhaps best known to a national audience as a Top 13 Finalist on American Idol. And she is known in the Starkville community as a worship leader at Pinelake Church. “God has given me the gift of singing, and I’m so excited to use it to help people worship God,” Jasmine says. “Leading worship in church isn’t the same as putting on a performance. It’s about helping people to see God and talk with Him through the words they sing.” When she was just 13 years old, Jasmine was inspired to become involved with the Miss America Competition as she watched her older sister compete for the title of Miss Mississippi. At a time in her life when she was bullied for not giving in to the pressures of young adolescence, Jasmine saw in the competition an emphasis on scholarship, service, and success in life, which echoed the values she had learned from her mother. She was selected as Miss Mississippi’s Outstanding Teen 2007, and reached the Top 10 at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen. In the Miss Mississippi 2014 pageant competition, Jasmine, competing as Miss Riverland, was a Preliminary Talent Winner and Overall Swimsuit Winner, and, ultimately, crowned Miss Mississippi at the July competition. Her days leading up to the Miss America

12 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

pageant September 14 are filled with mock interviews, visits to the gym, dress shopping, public appearances, and packing. But her busy schedule does not interfere with her private time with the Lord. “First thing, when I wake up, I start out with prayer,” she says. “Turning to God before you say anything to anyone else sets the tone for the whole day.” She spends her many hours of drive time praying and listening to worship music. “God has a purpose for each of our lives, and His plans and our plans are very different,” she says. “Many people quote Jeremiah 29:11, where the Lord says, ‘I know the plans I have for you, plans for good and not disaster,’ but the part I really love is in verse 13, ‘and you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.’ When we’re concentrating on Him, we really get to know Him.” When she was a young teen, her best friend became pregnant, and Jasmine saw her friend’s youth end, as she had to prepare for

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Nancy Flowers writes, teaches the Bible, and sells real estate in the Jackson area. Contact her at nancyhflowers@gmail.com, or follow her on Twitter @NancyHFlowers.

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raising a child. Jasmine was inspired to create “13 Going On 30” motivational camps to teach young girls to embrace their youth and to understand that there is time later for making adult decisions. By holding “13 Going On 30”camps across the country, Jasmine hopes to impress upon “her girls” to find something they love to do, whether sports or music, or something else, and do it. “These girls have the potential to do anything they want,” Jasmine says. “I encourage them to pick a craft and perfect it. I tell them, ‘You never know how good you can be until you try.’ ” Jasmine knows the Lord has placed her in a position to share her faith with people wherever she goes—whether it is with the 5,000 girls at the motivational camps or kids at the Boys and Girls Clubs or her Whether it is with the 5000 friends at MSU. “It’s a girls at the motivational privilege to share my camps or kids at the Boys faith,” she says. “My and Girls Clubs or her relationship with Jesus is the most important thing in friends at MSU.“It’s a life.” privilege to share my faith,: myThough she ultimately she says.“My relationship hopes to be in the Christian music industry, with Jesus is the most important thing in my life.” for now Jasmine is focused on finishing school, mentoring kids, and competing for the title of Miss America. Trusting in her biggest supporters and best friends—her mother and sisters—and in the providence of God, Jasmine is confident of the road ahead. “I’m grateful for the way God continues to bless me and steer me,” she says. “He has already decided what will happen, and that’s what I want.” Y

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the middle ages

by SHERYE S. GREEN

A Meaningful Life ow firmly entrenched in the middle year of the fifth decade of my life, the adage about quality over quantity is of paramount importance. More than ever before, I want

my life to be meaningful. Perhaps those of you in this same season have peered down deep into your heart and have heard questions whispering, clamoring for answers: Am I special? Do I make a difference anymore? Is the work that I do valuable? Is this all there is to life? The recent death of actor and comedian Robin Williams underscores the deep need within every human soul to find meaning in life. All too often, I find myself grasping for markers of significance from the world around me. How many “Likes” and “Comments” did my last post on Facebook receive? How many text messages have popped up on my phone in a 12-hour period? How many emails arrived in my in-box from friends this week? How many

Moses had it right. He set God’s ruler—not the drumbeat of the world—as the measuring stick of his life. copies of my novel have been sold? Although these markers, when measured, can provide a certain pulse of life, the standard by which significance is measured is skewed at best. I’m never going to find any lasting satisfaction in defining myself by the world’s standards. My faith in the One Living God compels me to look for the answers to my questions only in the person of Jesus Christ. I should know better than to pay attention to what others think, having made a decision well over 40 years ago to follow the Lord, but how alluring are the charms of this world. I remind myself of a student in a class who simply chooses to ignore the teacher’s instructions for a project, and then wonders why a low grade on the assignment is the result. I’m a morning person, and the early hours even before the sun begins to peek its bright, shining head over the cusp of the earth are some of my favorite. In those first few lucid moments that begin to form as sleep loses its grip on my mind and body, I thank the Lord that I am once again waking up in His beautiful

world. This new day is His reminder to me that there is yet work to be done. One of the great comforts that always comes from spending time in God’s Word is the reminder that I am not alone, that the same doubts and fears and questions posed by my heart have been voiced by countless believers living in ages past. A line in composer Tom Fettke’s stunning choral setting of Psalm 8, “The Majesty and Glory of Your Name,” voices this same thought: “Oh, what is man, that You are mindful of Him?” And God’s answers to me are the same ones that soothed the ruffled feathers of so many real men and women whose lives are recorded in the Bible. Moses, the great leader of Israel, wrote in Psalm 90:12, “So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.” Moses had it right. He set God’s ruler—not the drumbeat of the world—as the measuring stick of his life. I am learning in this new season that now, more than ever, I must keep my mind and heart focused on what God says about me as His child. Who does He say I am? A new creature…His perfect craftsmanship … a child of God … saved by grace … the fragrance of Christ in this world. What does He say should be a focus for this span of time? Trust in Me, Sherye, with every part of your heart and don’t ever rely on your tiny comprehension of this life. Give Me first place in your life, and I’ll put you on the right path. What holy work has He purposed for me to accomplish? Perform good works for Jesus. Use my freedom in Christ as a means of serving others. Find my life in what Jesus has purposed for me to do. What constitutes a meaningful life for me? Reaching out to touch the lives of others; strengthening relationships with family and friends; sharpening the blade of my pen so that its words may encourage and inspire; devoting myself to prayer and ministry; putting feet to my faith; forgetting myself as I find others more important. If you’re grappling with finding genuine meaning in this middle season of your life, I pray you will ask the One who truly has the answers you seek. Because He loves you, yours is a meaningful life. Y Sherye Green is a lifelong Jacksonian, a Social Studies teacher at Jackson Prep, 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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➺modern motherhood by MAGGIE INGRAM

Small Moments and Lessons That Last

situations that will require me to get my hands dirty as I deal with not only their sins, but also my own sins that God reveals to me as I walk with them. First John 3:1 says, “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” My deepest desire for my kids is that they will know Christ as through the sobs. I put his sweaty, dirty face their Savior, and love and serve Him. I want to be in my hands and talked slowly and quietly to a parent who points them to Christ, but I am weak. him until he finally calmed down. God’s grace is sufficient for me, and in Him I The chains had slipped off his new bike. It find strength. was in the 90s outside. I knew the chains As we dive into fall and our schedules shift to would be covered in grease. I wasn’t sure schoolwork and extracurricular activities, I need how long it would take to fix or if I would to remember these moments are building blocks even be able to. He ran back outside to the for my kids—and for me. They may be small front yard, and I sighed. moments, but together, they will build who my I made a halfhearted attempt at putting kids become. I am so thankful for the moments in John Harmon, 17 months; the chains back on the crank spokes. It was Caroline, 9; and Parker, 6 my own walk with Christ that are steadily building hot and they were greasy and I very quickly a deeper relationship with Him. gave up, telling him he’d have to wait on his dad. As Eventually, my children will trade their bikes for cars, their I was washing my hands, the Spirit gently spoke to my heart. “It’s his bedrooms for college dorms, and their childhood homes for houses last day of summer. Go fix it.” of their own. I pray that God continues to take my own face in His I immediately dried my hands and headed back to the front yard. palms and tenderly reminds me that I am His child, my sins are Within a few minutes, we had fixed the bike, and I received a hearty forgiven, and I can come boldly to His throne. Y thank you and a tight hug. As I watched my soon-to-be first grader pedal down the street, I heartily thanked God for His tenderness with me in a moment of weakness and laziness. The Father reminded me that eventually, my children’s problems Maggie Ingram lives in Madison with her husband and three wouldn’t be as easily fixed as a slipped bike chain. One day, their children. She is a homemaker and loves a good book. Feel free to contact her at maggiepingram@yahoo.com. problems will take more time and more wisdom. They’ll have

On the afternoon before the first day of school, the final hours of summer before we cleaned up to go to our meet-the-teacher night, my 6-yearold burst through the front door completely distraught about something. I could not understand him

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➺

christian commerce COLLEGE CORNER: A Business Based in Faith

MCL: What made you decide to open College Corner?

Scott: A couple of years ago, we decided there was a need for this store. I was going to a game and needed a new knit shirt. After riding all around town, I couldn’t find a Scott and Paula Werne, owners thing. So we decided to get one on game day at the campus. After fighting the crowds and waiting in line over half the morning to get this shirt, I knew we had a need in the metro market. I asked my friends from both State and Ole Miss and heard similar stories, so I knew I wasn’t alone.

MCL: How is College Corner different from other sports-apparel businesses?

Scott: We are different because we are a true one-stop, fan shop. We have you covered if you are a guy or gal or young or old. We also have all your tailgating needs from tents to chairs to coolers to bags. We felt like it was better to only carry a few teams and make sure we meant something to those fans without competing with local colleges and bookstores. We are carrying Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Southern Miss, LSU, and Alabama.

MCL: How is doing business is today’s economy an opportunity to demonstrate your faith?

Scott: In the corporate world, it can be hard to demonstrate your faith. But with your own business, you have so many different opportunities to do so. We start by telling our story. We have prayed and relied on God’s guidance through this process and we absolutely could not have done this on our own. We are hoping to start a prayer breakfast this fall, with a football theme, of course. We are planning on calling it, “Monday Morning Quarterback Prayer Breakfast”.

MCL: How has business been thus far since opening in early July?

Scott: Business is starting to pick up. Ridgeland is such a good area for shopping and we are reaping those benefits. Also, with football season right around the corner, people are getting excited and making plans to be at The Grove and in The Junction this fall. We hope to have a busy season through Christmas.

MCL: How has your personal faith guided you and your family in this commitment and process?

Scott: We have relied heavily on faith throughout this process. We have learned a lot from this process and have grown in our faith. Late last winter, we were really searching for answers about whether to open this business or not. God opened so many doors for us that we knew this was the path he wanted us to take. And he continues to show us each day. We have truly learned the true power of prayer through this business.

MCL: Can you give us your business philosophy in a “sound bite?”

Scott: A true one-stop, fan shop. We’ve got you covered for game day!! Y mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 19

➺living my call by MARILYN TINNIN

STORMIE OMARTIAN to Speak at Broadmoor

Editor’s Note: The Fresh Grounded Faith conference visits our area on October 24–25! Featuring authors and speakers Jennifer Rothschild and Stormie Omartian, this promises to be one of the best “girlfriend” events ever no matter your age and stage of life. With Lisa Whelchel, Olive Aneno, and music by Michael O’Brien, this is a rare opportunity for soul refreshment and a life changing encounter with God right in your own backyard! You just might win our “MCL Go-Behind-the-Scenes VIP Visit” with Jennifer and Stormie! Watch for updates on MCL’s Facebook page, and register early!

tormie Omartian is probably best remembered as the author of The Power of a Praying Wife. That book, published in 2002, has sold well over 20 million copies and continues to be a staple on the bookshelves of countless Christian women of all ages.

One reason it continues to be such a popular book is that Stormie’s story includes her personal real-life struggle about two imperfect people trying to live together in a fallen world. She is nothing if not authentic, and her practical and pragmatic advice works. Of course, she would tell you it works because the principles she preaches are God’s, not hers. She will also tell you she has tried it both ways—her way and God’s way. Stormie has written more than 50 books and though they are not all addressed to women, she does have a profound gift to sift through

the issues and get right to the heart with its complicated defenses and unique individual longings. Her life, that looks so incredibly “together” at this season of her life, was not always so pretty. Before she was a successful author and speaker, she was a singer, dancer, and actress with more than a few credits to her name. She also endured a very abusive childhood at the hands of a schizophrenic mother. Her wounded heart left her with a great deal of emotional baggage, and she tried to dull her pain and find her purpose in a variety of unhealthy and destructive ways. She was seriously considering suicide as a final solution to her

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brokenness when a concerned friend invited her to come with her to meet pastor, Jack Hayford. Doubtful that he would have anything to say that could possibly change her mind or give her hope, Stormie went anyway deciding she had nothing to lose. Hayford, a renowned author, teacher, minister, and the President of King’s College, gave Stormie three books to read—one on the way evil impacts our earthly lives, one on the power of the Holy Spirit, and one that was basically the gospel of John in story form. By the time she finished her reading and met with Hayford again the next week, she knew that

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 is Stormie’s life verse, and she is quick to point out that the preceding verses speak of the power of prayer. the words in those books were true and she was hungry to know more about what it meant to have a relationship with Christ. All of her problems did not disappear into thin air, but life finally made sense and had purpose. God has used her mightily since that time. She is indeed the “prayer warrior” of prayer warriors. Whether it was her extreme past hurts or her sense of never having been cherished or deeply loved, who can say. But she learned to pray with

fervency and a keen insight that moved the hands of God. She found prayer to be the most powerful part of her deepening relationship with the Lord, and she discovered that God’s grace was—as advertised in scripture—indeed sufficient for every one of her very needy, needs! Her passion is teaching other women these same ageless principles that will bring each individual into that vital, strong, tender, and intimate relationship with Christ. Who doesn’t want to connect heart to heart to the One who is always “for” us! Today this beautiful lady is a very young 71 years of age and is a new grandmother of a baby girl named Scarlett Grace Omartian. She lives outside Nashville with her husband of 41 years, Michael Omartian, and they are blessed to have both their son and daughter living close by. (And when she opens up the floor for questions, I am going to be the first one to ask her how she manages to look about 30 years younger than she is!) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 is Stormie’s life verse, and she is quick to point out that the preceding verses speak of the power of prayer. Stormie will speak on Friday night and will also be part of an open Q&A forum on Saturday. Her Friday night topic will deal with prayer. If you are looking for a deeper prayer life and a closer walk with the Lord, this is for you! “…that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—hat you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17–19). Y

mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 21

➺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

s p i D l o Co he month of September is filled with an assortment of social gatherings with friends and family. The temperature in September is still considered “summer” to me. Whether you are attending

a tailgate picnic, a school function, or just having dinner guests, these cold dips will certainly be enjoyed! BLT Dip has a classic taste of a real BLT sandwich. Prepare this recipe the day before and serve very cold. Fruit Salsa is pretty and refreshing. It can be served as a

BLT DIP 1/2 3/4 1 1 1/2

cup tomato, chopped very small cup mayonnaise cup sour cream cup Cheddar cheese, grated cup real bacon crumble (like Hormel) Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 head iceberg lettuce, cored

In medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, grated cheese, bacon bits, and tomato. Add a small amount of salt and pepper to taste. Use a spatula to mix together. Set aside for a day ahead in the refrigerator. To serve, cut out the core of the lettuce head to form a bowl for the dip. Spoon dip into the hollowed out lettuce head. Can garnish with extra bacon crumble or chopped green onion. Place in the center of a serving dish. Serve toasted pita triangles or Frito Scoops around the edge of the dish. Yield: 2 cups

22 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

picnic-style appetizer or even for a dressy occasion. Simply change up the serving pieces. What is better than a cold chocolate dip that tastes much like a brownie? Brownie Batter Dip can be a dessert, a spread, mixed in with your oatmeal, or even used as a topping for pancakes. Very versatile! Enjoy cooling off in September with these favorite cool dips!

BROWNIE BATTER DIP 8 1/2 2 to 3 5 5 2 1 3

ounces cream cheese cup butter, softened cups powdered sugar tablespoons all-purpose flour tablespoons cocoa powder tablespoons brown sugar teaspoon vanilla tablespoons milk Chocolate chips for garnish

In mixer, whip cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Add 2 cups powdered sugar and mix well. Add the flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until smooth. Add additional powdered sugar or milk if needed for desired consistency. Garnish with chocolate chips. Serve with pretzels, strawberries, marshmallows, vanilla wafers, animal crackers, or apple slices for dipping.

FRUIT SALSA 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored (squeeze a little lemon juice on apples to retain color) 2 kiwi, peeled and finely chopped 1 pint strawberries, finely chopped 1 navel orange, peeled and chopped 2 tablespoons Apple Jelly Juice from 1 orange

Cut all fruit up into small pieces and place in a large bowl. Mix two tablespoons of Apple jelly and the juice from the orange. Stir jelly mixture into the cut up fruit. Serve with cinnamon pita chips. Yield: 2 1/2 cups

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Chip and Christy He

Real and R 24 SEPTEMBER 2014 â?&#x2DC; Mississippi Christian Living

enderson

Relevant

DR. CHIP HENDERSON, senior minister of Pinelake Church, sits at his kitchen table on a sunny afternoon in July. Wearing his usual attire, jeans, he looks younger than his 48 years. He is just one of those fortunate few who are going to look like he is a college kid even when he is old enough to collect social security! He is plain “Chip” to most everyone, and if you did not know him and had never heard him preach, you might think he should try acting or modeling.

mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 25

His bride of 25 years, Christy, is five years younger. A talented artist, she doesn’t look her age either. It is hard to believe that their oldest daughter is headed to college this fall. But then they start to share their story, their values, and their heart for Christ and His church. Suddenly, they seem wise beyond their years. The bad news is somewhere between 4,000 and 7,000 churches in America close their doors every year. Between 2010 and 2012, more than half the U.S. churches failed to attract even one new member. The term “religiously unaffiliated” is attached to three million former church members every year. So reported an article in Huffington Post this past April. The good news, although the U.S. numbers sound rather dismal, is that Mississippi’s Pinelake has experienced a phenomenal explosion in growth over the past 15 years with an average of 8000+ attending on any given Sunday. In 2011, Pinelake was ranked the 54th fastest-growing church in America and the 55th largest church in America by Outreach magazine. With campuses in Clinton, Madison, Brandon, Starkville, and “coming soon” to Oxford, it is unusual that the vision has never been about being “big.” Pinelake’s original mission was to be a little community church on Spillway Road in Rankin County. God had other plans. In a moment in time when the culture around us, in large part, sees the church as irrelevant—70% of Mississippians stay home on Sunday morning—Chip seems to have an in-depth understanding of both the reasons many avoid the church, as well as how we

26 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

“I believe the church is relevant. I believe that it is on us to beg people, to beg people to come and to say, ‘come find hope in this place.’ The Bible, I believe, is God’s truth for us. All of the ‘I’ words you want to use—infallible, inerrant—all of those things—it’s all that. And we teach it just like that. We don’t back away—and I think that’s how the church stays relevant. We have to be distinctive in the truth.”

mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 27

The Henderson Kids: McKenzie, Rachel, and Regan

Chip and Christy discovered each other when she was 15 and he was a very young 20!

28 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

meet them where they are and trust God to move. He is that “earthen vessel” in the hands of the Potter. And that explains a lot about the growth of Pinelake. He cares that he is doing what God called him to do, and he genuinely cares about people who are searching for meaning and purpose. “I believe the church is relevant. I believe that it is on us to beg people, to beg people to come and to say, ‘come find hope in this place.’ The Bible, I believe, is God’s truth for us. All of the ‘I’ words you want to use— infallible, inerrant, all of those things—it’s all that. And we teach it just like that. We don’t back away and I think that’s how the church stays relevant. We have to be distinctive in the truth.” You won’t find the “prosperity gospel” preached here. He is obviously not trying to build his televangelist image. He is into Truth—even when you wish the Bible said something else. He candidly admits there have been times when he, too, wishes the Bible said something other than what it says on any given topic! And judging by the attendance even on

the MSU campus in Starkville (1,500 every Sunday), people of all ages are searching for something true and something stable, albeit tough, in the middle of a very unstable world.

The Vision That Wasn’t When Chip was still in the interview process with the Search Committee back in 1998, one of their questions for him was about his “vision.” To some extent, that question made him feel “less than” because he did not have a pat answer. Southern Baptists tend to like buses and buildings and detailed numbers. Chip just did not think in those terms. He had served two pastorates at that point, the first one being Tangipahoa, Louisiana, with a congregation numbering about 22 where he was often paid in squash and tomatoes. He said his vision was simply Isaiah 6, “that if we would see God high and lifted up, everything else would take care of itself, but that is the only vision I’ve got.” “And so everything from that point on has just been about trying to keep God in the center. That’s affected who leads; it affects what we do, and why we do it. We just

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planned to be a healthy place and God has made it a big place.” The first satellite campus was in Madison County. It was not really on the drawing board until Chip was in a planning meeting one day as the leadership was working on connecting people through the small group ministry. Small groups strengthen large churches by building relationships among members who live in close proximity to each other. The leadership team knew the church had grown significantly because even though they were in their large new worship center at the Reservoir campus, they were overflowing in three Sunday morning services. This was 2003, and Chip says they really did not understand the influx at first. When he called his assistant and said, “Would you just look up in our database and see how many people come to church here

that live in Madison County?” he was thinking one or two small groups should be in Madison County. He was astounded at the reply. That was when Chip realized this was something bigger than the leadership’s “vision,” if they had one at all. This was a God-thing. So began what he calls “Expanding our Jerusalem,” the multi-site initiative that symbolically represents moving the “walls” outside the local bricks and mortar to take the church to more people.

A Heart for College Students On January 9, 2011, Pinelake’s second satellite location was launched in Starkville, Mississippi. By this time, the “Expanding our Jerusalem” idea had become strategic. Chip had been an MSU student when he traded his ambition to be an orthodontist for

his dad’s vocation as a preacher. No wonder he has always had a tender heart toward the struggles of college students at a crossroads in life. They have to make so many critical decisions in those years. As senior minister of a large church with a broad age demographic, Chip has had to stay in tune with trends and issues for every age—birth to senior citizen. Because Pinelake has been a magnet for young families, he has followed many cradle attendees right up through their high school graduations. He has watched the way the culture impacts their habits, and he gets it. He really gets it. His own children have gone from cradle roll to college age during his tenure, and he cares deeply about what happens to kids when they leave the confines of home and live four years on a college campus, where they will be exposed to

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Chip credits his mentor/role model/dad Gene Henderson with teaching him not just how to be a pastor, but how to be a husband, father, and well-rounded man.

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everything that contradicts the foundation laid for them in their previous 18 years. Much prayer and a lot of thought went into this Starkville launch, not the least of which were: (1) People tend to drop out of church when they go to college. (2) College students are strategic to changing the world because they are the future leaders for the state of Mississippi, as well as the world. (3) If we invest in them while they’re in college, hopefully, we send them out to their communities with a grounding to go and be a part of a life-giving church where they plug in to actively be “salt and light” wherever they go. (4) College students have little money, but lots of time. “Let’s engage them in something that does not require money but will reap benefits for the rest of their lives,” Chip says. Are college students so different in 2014 than in the 1980’s when Chip went to college? Yes and no. Technology has revolutionized the world. As Chip says, “They may have lots of ‘virtual’ friends, but college kids today have the same questions we did. They need to know, ‘Am I loved? Am I important? Is there life outside myself?’ I think in those ways, kids are

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exactly the same. We looked for significance wearing our Wayfarers and our cutoff blue jeans. They’re looking for it with Facebook and Instagram and selfies and whatever. But it is still a cry from the heart to be loved and important.” Christy says that despite the common criticisms of this generation—that they are ‘self-absorbed’ and ‘immature’ in so many ways—they are incredibly eager to be connected to a cause that is greater than they are. “They are taking opportunities to help other people who are less fortunate and many are going on mission trips that show them a side of life that we did not get to see. And they care and want to make a difference.”

Who Are Chip and Christy? Chip and Christy began their life together at an incredibly young age. They have story after story of God’s faithfulness to them in the early years of their relationship. Their first meeting was just after Chip had just finished his sophomore year at Mississippi State. He had made the decision the previous semester to enter the ministry. His job that summer was in Winona,

Mississippi, working with their youth at the North Winona Baptist Church. Among the teens that were part of Chip’s little flock that summer was Vince Saia who had a twin sister, Christy. Although the Saia family were members at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Christy and Vince spent a lot of time with their friends in the Baptist youth group. Chip found himself often at Vince’s house where there was always outstanding food, a free place to do his laundry, and a Super Mario Brothers Nintendo game running nonstop. Before the summer ended, however, Chip decided he really enjoyed hanging out with Christy even more than with her brother. When he returned to Starkville at the end of the summer, he was smitten. She was 15. He was 20, but he knew she was the one for him. On their first date, he wanted to impress her by taking her to see the ducks at The Peabody Hotel in Memphis. When they arrived the ducks had already been taken to the roof for the night, and they were told there was a private party under way, so it was not going to be possible for them to see the ducks. Chip, the college student, demonstrated

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Chip and Christy celebrate 25 years together this year!

34 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

his tenacity and creativity. He and Christy hopped on the elevator; he whispered to her to just do whatever he did when the doors opened, but he promised her the ducks and by golly, they were going to see the ducks. The doors opened to reveal a table filled with nametags and partygoers enjoying themselves. Chip picked up two nametags, stuck one on himself and one on his date. They milled around, located the ducks, returned the nametags to the table, went down the elevator, stopped off for cheesecake and came home. It was crazy, silly, and made a memory that still makes for a good story all these years later. But The Peabody Hotel figured into a later significant moment as well, and it is an even better story than the first. Christy had barely begun her college career at Ole Miss by the time Chip graduated from MSU and headed off to seminary in New Orleans. They had been dating for three years. He wanted her with him—had no idea how they would manage, but he plotted his proposal. It had to happen at The Peabody. When they arrived one afternoon under the guise of seeing the ducks again and

eating cheesecake in the little café, there was more déjà vu involved than Chip had expected. The ducks were not swimming in the lobby fountain. Chip knew the ducks were kept on the roof. There was no way to go to the roof on the elevator that day. Chip pushed through an unlocked door leading to the fire escape, took Christy to the roof, got down on bended knee and proposed. Little did the couple know they had set off alarms inside the hotel. All of a sudden a security officer came running toward them, ready to arrest the trespassers. Chip’s powers of persuasion shone as he explained why they were there. The angry officer was now amused as he asked, “Well, what did she say?” He ushered them downstairs saying, “I guess I can’t arrest you.”

Growing Together Christy was barely 18 when she, a lifelong Catholic, found herself married to a Baptist seminary student living on love in New Orleans, Louisiana. From Winona, Mississippi, (population about 4,000) to a city of more than 400,000, there was a new challenge for the couple to face every single day.

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Welcomes

Jay Brown, MD Dr. Jay Brown, a native of Bay Springs, Mississippi, received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from the University of Mississippi and completed his medical degree and Ophthalmology residency at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, where he was presented with an Award for Excellence in Ophthalmology studies. His retina fellowship was completed at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and he proudly served as the Chief of Ophthalmology at Mississippi Baptist Hospital from 2010 to 2012. He is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

Belhaven Building 1200 North State Street, Suite 300 Jackson, Mississippi 39202

601.981.4091 www.msretina.com mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 35

In retrospect, they see it all as a huge blessing—the fact that they were dirt poor, away from their families, and totally dependent on God and each other to make it week to week. Today, it is clear they are partners, best friends, and still very much in love. Almost 25 years, three children, and three pastorates later, Christy speaks of Chip’s “consistency.” She says that the Chip the congregation sees on Sunday mornings is the same Chip she sees all week. “He is diligent in God’s word. His desire to follow God—that’s what I admire most about him. He is still moldable in God’s hands. Some people get stuck in their ways—not Chip. He is constantly looking for God to change him.” If consistency is in Chip’s DNA, it’s flip side is definitely not what you would expect. The “not- getting-stuck-in-his-ways” trait probably helps explain the vitality, the energy, and the enthusiasm that characterizes the ministry and outreach of Pinelake. The stained glass, the pipe organ, and the choir have been replaced by the praise band and a set of blue jean-wearing worship

leaders. Sometimes the old hymns are sung, but not the way some of us remember them! When Chip stands up to deliver the message, there is no mistaking that the foundation at Pinelake is as firm as Jesus’s church has ever been. It’s the scripture that is preached— uncompromising and unchangeable and unapologetic—even when it is uncomfortable or strangely incompatible with today’s culture. And judging by those who come to hear, the Word being offered is as relevant, lifegiving, and soul sustaining as it was 2000 years ago. Chip Henderson’s passion is to build Believers who are not just doing “church” for an hour or two every week, but who are really believing God, trusting God, and seeing Him move in the every day challenges that wear and tear on our hearts and the lives of those around us. He yearns to introduce those who come on Sunday mornings to God, who has power to change lives, inspire faith, belief, and give purpose to every very big, as well as very mundane, moment. As Chip says, “It’s not about church. It’s life.” Y

welcomes our new friends in STARKVILLE TUPELO OXFORD MERIDIAN HATTIESBURG And soon to other cities around Mississippi! WHERE ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE US?

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36 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

home accessories &gifts home accessories - antiques - fine gifts - design services

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➺education connection by ZACH NEW

From a Son’s View

New Summit School’s growth is very much a result of Nancy New’s vision and tenacity.

he observation of a son started in 1991 in the living room (which also doubled as an office!) of our house in Jackson, Mississippi. There sat a

determined, yet visionary, mother who organized binders and folders for her next consulting visit, only thinking of her dream Dr. Nancy New to have an educational center. My mother, Founder/Executive Director Dr. Nancy New, had a vision and the drive New Summit School to make the dream a reality. I watched the dream that began in our living room come to fruition on April 18, 2014. It was Good Friday and the second foundation was being poured for the new high school building. While watching this dream of my mother’s, which I also hold so dear, I was reminded of the Lord’s words to us in Matthew 7:24-27. “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and acts on them may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed

38 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

against that house; and it fell—and great was its fall.” It was the rock of our faith in Him that brought us from that living room to my thoughts on Good Friday of this year. The rains, both figuratively and literally, have come again and again over the years, but having strength from the Lord has allowed the growth of New Learning Resources, which began as educational service providing supplemental education for students with learning differences. It has since extended these services to include schools in Jackson and Greenwood, Mississippi, a fully accredited, online high school, and a partnership with an American all-boys school in Costa Rica. The future of New Learning Resources looks bright. The new addition to our Jackson campus will allow New Learning Resources to continue its mission of individualizing instruction to meet the needs of every child. The addition of Autism and Dyslexia specific services, extracurricular activities, arts-integrated curriculum, and athletics will enhance NLR’s ability to provide students with the essential services and support they need to succeed. As we grow in size and scope of services, I will dedicate all of my energy and passion to ensuring that my mother’s vision is continued well into the future. Y

Zach New is the Vice President of Operations at New Summit School.

mschristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; SEPTEMBER 2014 39

➺legal advice by ELIZABETH WYNN

Living Trust or LLC? t’s often said that a lawsuit is filed in this country about every six seconds! Even if you are sued and are actually right and the other party is wrong, it will still cost a lot of money in legal defense fees, not to speak of countless days of worry and stress. Most people

get so tired of the entire process; they just want to settle—right or wrong! A Living Trust, because it is “revocable”, affords you no protection against lawsuits, creditors or bankruptcy. Since you can revoke, or remove, your assets from a Living Trust, so can a court or third-party predators and creditors. You require planning beyond the Living Trust if you want the peace of mind of asset protection. There are many types of asset protection planning that you can pursue. However, you should understand that any such planning must be done in advance of any liabilities and must be substantiated and intended for purposes other than merely avoiding creditors. A perfect example, and often one of the most overlooked, is the use of a Limited Liability Company (“LLC”), which is an excellent vehicle for holding and managing family investments in real estate, stocks and bonds and even in some other active businesses. Let me give you a quick snapshot of how the LLC works. You transfer income property, a business or other investment assets to the LLC, which is a separate legal entity. You then receive two types of ownership interests, commonly referred to as control interests and non-control interests. You will retain the control interests (which usually represents only 1% to 5% of the total equity ownership). You, as LLC manager, may retain lifetime management and control over the assets, be paid a management fee or salary for running the LLC and decide the amount and timing of distributions of net income (after expenses and your management fee). The non-control or limited interests which you initially receive are excellent items to gift, in part or in whole, over time, to your loved ones. The limited owners have no right to current management or control, and only receive distributions when you, the manager, decide it’s appropriate. One of the paramount benefits of the LLC is the asset protection feature. All owners are not liable for LLC debts, so you and your loved ones’ personal assets are insulated from any liability originating

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inside the LLC. If multiple properties or assets are involved, you may want to use a separate company to isolate liability only to a particular individual property. Similarly, liabilities of the owners that occur outside the LLC (divorce, personal creditors, etc.) typically do not flow inside and affect LLC assets. Another significant benefit of the LLC is establishing proper succession management of family investments. Typically, only one or two family members may be qualified to properly lead and manage the business, but at the same time you do want other beneficiaries to receive a protected economic interest. You can establish who will be the owner in charge of decisions relating to investing, buying, selling, refinancing, etc., while your other loved ones can be protected through the ownership of limited interests, which will entitle them to certain distributions of profits whenever the appointed manager deems distributions to be appropriate. And finally, an LLC allows you to keep your assets in the family. If several family members inherit a piece of property directly, any one of them (even with a small interest) might force a partition and unintended sale of the property. With an LLC, if one family member needs money or wants to sever ties with the company, a preestablished method to selling his or her interest to other family members is established. Rather than forcing LLC assets to be sold or selling his or her interest to some third party who could then be involved in the family’s affairs, this process is available for everyone’s protection. Many people think liability insurance is all they need, but if you own rental property, a tenant could sue you over toxic mold issues, a criminal act on the property, or a wrongful eviction. All of these are usually excluded from coverage by most property liability policies. Explore your options, know all the benefits that a properly formed LLC can offer and discuss them with a qualified estate attorney. Remember, it’s always best to plan ahead and be safe than sorry!

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.

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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.

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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.

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42 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

➺

what’s going on

How to be the smartest in the class: Open a Student Direct Checking account!

ucas Daniel Boyce, currently the Director of Business and Legislative Affairs for the Orlando Magic, will be the keynote speaker on October 16 at New Beginnings Adoptions and Family Services Annual Celebration of Adoption in Tupelo. Beginning at 6:30 p.m.,

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Community Bank has a special account for students–Student Direct Checking.* Open it with $50, and you can get mobile deposit with a convenient smartphone app,** plus loads of free features.

*Age Requirement: Community Bank customers enrolled in Student Direct Checking and are under the age of 25, will pay no service charge other than a paper statement fee, if applicable. Any Community Bank customer that does not meet the age requirement will have their Student Direct Checking account converted to the Direct Checking account product and is subject to the stated monthly service charge(s) of that account. **Mobile Deposit app limits deposits to one item per deposit. $1.00 service fee for each deposited item. Mobile Deposit only available on non-business checking accounts. Online Banking enrollment required to receive Mobile Banking and Mobile Deposit. Message and data rates may apply.

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the event includes a silent auction and dinner. Table sponsorships are available with benefits including recognition at the banquet and a private reception with Lucas. Born prematurely to a drug-addicted prostitute, Lucas Daniel Boyce’s future appeared uncertain at best. His chances at life changed when at 10 days old, DHS placed him in the foster care of Dorothy Lee Boyce. Lucas calls his adoptive mom Dorothy his hero. In his book Living Proof: From Foster Care to the White House and the NBA, he recalls how her sacrifices allowed his success—along with the success of his many brothers and sisters. Lucas’ responsibilities, in his current position with the Orlando Magic, include strategic business planning with a focus on developing a new sports and entertainment district in downtown Orlando. Prior to joining the Magic in 2008, Lucas served at the White House under President George W. Bush in a number of different roles from 2003–2008. New Beginnings International Children and Family Services is a Hague accredited agency providing international and domestic adoptions, home studies, and birthmother services. For ticket or sponsorship information, contact Alicia at New Beginnings at 662.842.6752. Y

mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 43

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➺rave reviews BOOK Stand Strong

From Marilyn’s Bookshelf

Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson

Reviewed by Marilyn Tinnin

For too many children, back-toschool time brings dread and fear. Going into the classroom means that other children will taunt, harass, and/or physically abuse them. The problem is widespread and shows no signs of stopping despite school policies and other attempts to end these actions. Author Rick Vujicic knows about being on the receiving end from bullies. Born without arms or legs, he describes himself as a bully’s dream, and struggled with the resulting depression. In Stand Strong, he now offers teens guidelines for becoming bully-proof. You won’t find any quick fixes here. The material goes beyond a shallow “selfesteem” model to focus on solid growth in developing firm values, a strong faith, and learning to manage emotions. Other aspects include hints on finding a safe place and people to back you up. As readers walk through Vujicic’s successes and failures they see that both surviving and thriving are possible. Though focused on bullying, the book goes far beyond that application. Any teen working on the difficult task of growing up can use the author’s guidance to develop a strong sense of self. The fact that Vujicic goes beyond the personal aspect to challenge readers to stand up for others who may be struggling adds to this dimension. Adults dealing with teens in any capacity will find Stand Strong a useful guide to helping teens develop in all areas. Teens will relate to the author’s personal and conversational style. This one’s a keeper.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.

www.writteninstoneclean.com 44 SEPTEMBER 2014 ❘ Mississippi Christian Living

The Invisible Girls Sarah Thebarge If anybody thinks life has been unfair, Sarah Thebarge should. After breast cancer in her twenties shattered much more of her life than just her physical health, she found herself, through a seemingly chance encounter, taking care of a family of Somalian refugees. A can’t-put-it-down short read, it will tug at your heartstrings and inspire you to look for those “invisible” people in your own path.

The Storm Inside Sheila Walsh Written for women, this book is for anyone who is overwhelmed by the challenges of everyday crisis and chaos. Just battling the negative stream of modern life is enough to wear anybody down, but Sheila’s warm, real, and practical writing will encourage anyone looking for comfort and strength.

God is Just Not Fair Jennifer Rothschild Jennifer will be here in Madison in October! I cannot wait to meet the person who has written this book! This transparent and personal book is for anyone wrestling with the question, “Why am I going through this particular incredible and difficult thing?” There are more than answers here. Y

➺

events calendar August 16 The Brandon Opry begins at 6:30 p.m. and features Country comedian Bill Bustin, J.D. Barrett and the Country Boys, along with the Brandon Opry Band. Brandon Municipal Complex on Highway 80. $5 admission. Visit brandonopry.net or call 601.992.4716 for more info. Good family entertainment!

Lunch and Fun Day Activities following the race. Register early online at newsummitschool.com. Call 601.982.7827 for more details.

September 20 Fall Festival: In the Land of Oz! Come to the Mississippi Children’s Museum 6:30–9:30 p.m. mississippichildrensmuseum.com/events for details.

September 23

CANTON September 4 Canton Country Club hosts St. Matthews UMC of Madison’s annual fundraising golf tournament. Proceeds will benefit the Methodist Children’s Home and the St. Matthew’s Honduras mission ministry. Visit stm-umc.org or call 601.856.9581 for details.

JACKSON September 5–7 Celtic Fest Weekend celebrates 23 years of Festival Fun at the MS Agricultural & Forestry Museum. Kicks off Friday night at 7 p.m. Begins Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. Something for everyone with 45 talented music and dance groups, the 2014 Guinness Highland Games, food, kid activities, and all the Ag Museum always has to offer. For tickets or more info, visit CelticFestMS.org.

September 18 Symphony at Sunset sponsored by the Fondren Renaissance on the grounds of The Cedars at 4145 Old Canton Road. Spread a blanket, bring a picnic, and enjoy the MS Symphony Orchestra. For more info or to reserve a seating table with dinner, please call the Foundation office at 601.981.9606.

September 19 New Summit School hosts a grand opening of their new and renovated campus 10 a.m.–noon at 1417 Lelia Drive. Tours and student showcase. RSVP 601.982.7827

Southern Christian Services for Children and Youth holds its annual Bottom Line for Kids Benefit Dinner and Auction at the Country Club of Jackson at 6 p.m. Fabulous silent auction as well as live auction for a one week Luxury Italian Villa with private pool in Umbrian, Italy and a gorgeous oil painting by Susan Wellington. For details visit scscy.org.

September 25 Bethany Banquet & Silent Auction 2014, an inspiring evening and annual fundraiser for Bethany Christian Services. Learn how God is working through Bethany’s ministry to serve children and families in our community. There is no charge for this event. Reservations are required. An opportunity for a financial gift to Bethany will be provided. Adults only please. 6 p.m. The South at 627 Silas Brown. bethany.org/jackson

September 27 The 31st WellsFest will be held at Jamie Fowler Boyll Park. All proceeds will go to Partners to End Homelessness. 5K run and walk and one-mile fun run at 8 a.m., a pet parade at 9 a.m., and from 10 a.m.–5 p.m., enjoy live music, food booths, children’s activities, an arts and crafts vendor area, a plant sale, and a silent auction. Free admission. For info, call 601.353.0658, visit wellsfest.org or visit the WellsFest Facebook page.

RIDGELAND September 26 Pear Orchard Presbyterian Church at 750 Pear Orchard Road is hosting a conference on Safe Families for Children from 6-8 p.m. It is open to everyone who would like to attend–families, churches, agencies who work with families. More info can be found at bit.ly/sffc2014.

TUPELO September 25 The Fellowship of Christian Business Leaders lunch meeting from noon–1 p.m. at the Summit Conference Center at 852 North Gloster. Buffet opens at 11:30 a.m. For reservations, email Maryalice@createfoundation.com or call 662.844.8989. Marilyn Tinnin of MS Christian Living magazine is the guest speaker. Details at thefellowshiptupelo.com.

VICKSBURG September 12 Jason Crabb in concert at 7 p.m. at the Vicksburg City Auditorium at 901 Monroe Street. Free admission. Call 601.631.3716 for more details.

September 27 The Outlets at Vicksburg’s annual charity shopping event from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tickets are $20 and entitles you to discounts from participating stores, complimentary spa services, entertainment and a chance to win over $12,000 in gift cards and prizes! Proceeds benefit the Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg. For details, see eventbrite.com.

September 20 Family Fun Day 5k Run/Walk and 1-Mile Run benefitting New Summit School. Registration at 7:30 a.m. for 8:30 a.m. event.

funds that allow local chapters to sustain care services and support research. Walk check-in at 9 a.m. The 1-mile walk begins at 10 a.m. at Trustmark Park. For info, contact Chelsea Moreau at chelsea.moreau@alsalams.org or call 225.343.9880 ext. 6.

PEARL September 27 The Jackson Walk to Defeat ALS® raises mschristianliving.com ❘ SEPTEMBER 2014 45

SEPTEMBER 2014

BRANDON

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISER INDEX

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

✂

The basic premise of religion—that if you live a good life, things will go well for you— is wrong. Jesus was the most morally upright person who ever lived, yet He had a life filled with the experience of poverty, rejection, injustice, and even torture.

Life has to be grounded in things that can never die, can’t be stolen, and can’t get taken away. – Nancy Ortberg

A generous person will prosper: whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. – PROVERBS 11:25

– Tim Keller

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forgetme-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble. – Charles Spurgeon

– MATTHEW 11:28

America is the first culture in jeopardy of amusing itself to death. – John Piper

Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet, it did not fall because it had its foundation built on the rock. – MATTHEW 7:24-25

A life is never stamped “ruined” or “worthless” or “too damaged” by our Father. He is always ready and waiting with open arms to welcome us back and for His restoration to have its perfect way in our lives for the glory of the One who created all things and allows all things for His great purposes.

The only people who get better are people who know that, if they never get better, God will love them anyway. – Steve Brown, A Scandalous Freedom

– Karen Janous

The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.

Age wrinkles the body. Quitting wrinkles the soul. – Douglas McArthur

Believers should acknowledge and wrestle with doubts. It is no longer sufficient to hold beliefs just because you inherited them. – Tim Keller

To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you. – C.S. Lewis

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there you heart will be also.

– Billy Graham

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– MATTHEW 6:19-21, ESV

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WE ARE LOOKING FOR CHRISTIAN STUDENTS

WHO WALK IN FAITH, HONOR THE LORD, AND LEAD WITH INTEGRITY.

CHRISTIAN LEADERS OF THE FUTURE is an opportunity for high school seniors to share their story of faith and leadership and receive a scholarship toward their college tuition. Applications and instructions are available at www.MSChristianLiving.com or through your school counselor. Visit Christian Leaders of the Future on Facebook for updates! Deadline for applications is December 5, 2014. APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY DECEMBER 5, 2014 For More Information contact: Mississippi Christian Living | 601-790-9076 or Marilyn@MsChristianLiving.com