Peristeria Spring 2012 by National Girls Ministries

Hey Girls!

National Girls Ministries Director

Candy Tolbert Teen Girl Specialist Magazine Editor

Katie Mattiuzzo National Girls Ministries Editor

Lori Van Veen This Month’s Contributors:

Taylor Colton

2011 Timeline of Important Events

Michael Tolbert Tough Question

Ashlee Chu

Entertainment Center: Jamie Grace

Ryan Moore

Feature Article: All Roads Don’t Lead to Heaven

You’re about to read the spring issue of Peristeria! We’re excited you downloaded it. We’ve jam-packed this issue with all kinds of fun things and hope you enjoy every single page of content. With the coming of spring is also the coming of allergy season. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen a picture of pollen from under a microscope, but one quick look and you’ll see why it is such an irritant — it has an uneven surface and rough, pointy edges. My allergies developed when I was in junior high. I remember dreading having to go outside for Phy-Ed. I’d stand on the baseball field and constantly rub my itchy eyes and nose, and I’d come up with as many creative ways to itch the back of my throat as possible to find relief. I would even tried to focus all of my thoughts on how amazing it would be if I could just swallow some partially-chewed chips or pretzels to scratch my miserable throat. One day I got so annoyed of just trying to cope with my symptoms that I told my mom. She bought me allergy medicine and that gave me so much more relief than just tolerating it. Who knew there was such a quick fix?! Like allergies, you may not notice Satan lurking around every day. You may only notice him trying to attack you during certain seasons of your life. Maybe the second semester of school is a vulnerable time for you because you’re feeling the pressure of finishing the year strong and that’s when Satan tries to attack you. Or maybe he tries to attack you on weekends by luring you into the same lifestyle your friends have chosen that you don’t want to participate in.

Alice Horne

Whenever you notice Satan lurking around trying to attack you, you probably notice symptoms, much like you would during allergy season. You might be tired, miserable, or desperate to find relief. Did you know there’s a quick fix for that? Look to Jesus!

Jennie Olson

I love John 10:10 because it outlines Satan’s intentions so perfectly: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (NIV).

Feature Article: Who I Am in Christ is Who I Am Like, Love, & Dating: Love is [Not] All You Need Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society®. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NASB®) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. (www.Lockman.org) ©2012 by Gospel Publishing House. All Rights Reserved. Permission to copy for church use only.

Satan is out to get you. He knows what season of your life is best to try to attack you when you’re most vulnerable, and rob you of your joy and your peace. He wants to irritate you to the point where you can no longer stand it. The only thing that can bring freedom from a miserable existence is belief in Jesus! While this doesn’t mean you’ll never have another problem ever again, it does mean that Jesus will always be there with you in your difficult times and can relieve a lot of the symptoms of Satan’s attack. So this allergy season, take a lesson from pollen and antihistamine and get yourself some relief that can only come from Jesus!

The symbolism between the Peristeria Orchid and the Christian teen girl is pretty powerful stuff. Peristeria is Greek for “little dove.” The orchid gets its name from the dove-shaped center of the flower, and has also been called the Holy Ghost orchid (read Luke 3:21,22). Peristeria Orchids can grow in light or dark, much like a teen girl who has a desire to grow in her relationship with God despite the circumstances around her. The roots require moisture — pure water — at all times. As Christians, we also need nutrition and to be constantly fed through studying the Bible. As you read this magazine, think of yourself as a beautiful Peristeria Orchid — filled with the Holy Ghost, growing in whatever circumstances you’re living with, whether they be in light or dark, and being fed with the pure truth of the Word of God.

2011 timeline of important events | page 2

tough question | page 14

seasonal favorites | page 4

entertainment center | page 16

spring fashion | page 7

feature story: all roads don’t lead to heaven | page 18

bits of beauty | page 10

book nook | page 21

what do we think about... | page 11

feature story: who i am in christ is who i am | page 22

events of easter week | page 12

count on clarissa: “warning!” | page 24 living in fear: tornado season | page 26 like, love, & dating | page 27

Mar. 7

Republicans gain control of the House of Representatives

A dispute between the writers of “Two and a Half Men” & Charlie Sheen takes place. Sheen is fired Feb. 17 & displays odd Major uprisings behavior. He start in Libya. The reaches one Jan. 8 leader, Moammar million followers Congresswoman, Gabrielle Gif- Gadhafi, refuses on Twitter within to resign & fights hours. fords is shot at a political event back against the outside Tuscan, rebels. AZ. The gunman, Mar. 11 Jared LoughA massive 9.0 ner, injured 16 magnitude earthpeople & killed quake shakes 6 that included Japan. The a 9-year-old girl earthquake trigwho was born on gers a tsunami. 9/11. More than 10,000 people are killed or missing.

Jan. 26

Egyptians start protesting against their president, Hosni Mubarak & his government. The government cuts off their access to the Internet & mobile phones. After weeks of protesting, President Mubarak steps down & Egypt gets a new government.

Mar. 23 Feb. 22

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake hits New Zealand. 155 people are killed & many buildings are destroyed.

Screen legend, Elizabeth Taylor, dies at the age of 79 of congestive heart failure. She was best known for her movies Black Beauty & Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf.

2011

April 27

Deadly tornadoes rip through the southern part of the United States, leaving 6 dead & many homes destroyed.

May 1

After a nine & a half year manhunt, Osama Bin Laden is found and then killed by American Commandos in Pakistan.

Former Chicago, IL, mayor, Rod Country singers, Blagojevich, is Blake Shelton & found guilty on 17 Miranda Lambert counts in corrupApril 29 tie the knot in tion trial. BlagojevPeople all over Texas. ich was accused the world aoke of trying to sell or May 19 up at all times trade President of the night to President Barack Obama’s senate Obama makes a celebrate the seat. shift in his midmarriage of Prince William & east foreign policy, commoner, Kate calling for a Palestinian state by Middleton. telling Israel that if it wants peace to go back to the 1967 borders.

May 14

May 22

A massive EF-5 tornado tears April 30 through Joplin, Singer, Mariah MO, causing mass Carey & husband, destruction. Over Nick Cannon 2,000 homes were welcome their destroyed & 132 twins, “Roc” and people lost their “Roe.” lives.

May 25

The Oprah Winfrey Show ends after 25 years.

timeline 4

June 27

important events

Jan. 5

of by taylor colton

Aug. 1

Representative, Gabrielle Gifffords returns to Washington, D.C., to vote in favor of raising July 5 the debt ceiling, Casey Anthony 8 months after is acquitted on being shot on murder charges January 8th. in the death of her daughter, Aug. 4 Caylee, 2, which The 2011-2012 triggers outNBA season is rage across the cancelled when the players & United States. owners fail to reach an agreement

July 15

The final “Harry Potter” film, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2” premieres.

Aug. 6

31 Americans killed in helicopter crash. Most were from the Elite Navy Seals Unit that killed Osama Bin Laden.

Oct. 5

Technology pioneer & co-founder of Apple, Inc, Steve Jobs passes away from a yearlong battle with cancer. He was 56 years old.

Nov. 9

Longtime Penn State football coach, Joe Paterno, is fired after a child sex abuse Sept. 6 scandal. Riots by Deadly wildfires students followed sweep across because they felt Texas that Paterno was wrongly accused. It was Paterno’s assistant coach, Sept. 11 Oct. 15 Jerry Sandusky Our country More than 2,000 who is accused of remembers the people march in committing the victims of the Chicago, IL, for crime. attack on the an Occupy Wall Pentagon, World Street protest. Nov. 12 Trade Center, & Justin Timberlake Flight 93 that is the date of Cpl. crashed in PA. It Kelsey DeSantis was the 10th anat the Marine niversary. Corp Ball in Richmond, VA.

Dec. 7

Ex-Penn State coach, Jerry Sandusky is arrested on new sexual abuse charges.

Dec. 7

Ex-mayor Rod Blagojevich is sentenced to 14 years for corruption.

Aug. 20

Millions tun in to watch reality star, Kim Kardashian July 23 marry NBA player, Amy Winehouse, Kris Humphries. The wedding cost singer, is found $10 million dollars Sept. 17 dead at her home. Autopsy and the marriage About 1,000 only lasted 72 people attend results conclude days. the first that her death “Occupy Wall was due to alcoStreet” event. Aug. 23 hol poisoning. A 5.8 magnitude earthquake hits Virginia. Tremors are felt as far away as New July 26 England. Deadly flash floods and mudAug. 28 slides hit South Beyoncé stuns Korea. crowds at the MTV Music Videos Awards show by exposing her baby bump during her performance.

Oct. 20

Nov. 18

Oct. 23

Nov. 26

After 42 years of dictatorship in Libya, President Moammar Gadhafi is killed by revolutionary forces.

Longtime broadcaster, Regis Dec. 15 Philbin hosts his final episode Iraqi War officially ends. of “Live With Regis & Kelly.”

2011 NBA lockDeadly earthout ends. quake hits Turkey. It was a 7.2 magnitude that killed 85 people.

Dec. 17

North Korean leader, Kim Jong-Il dies.

Nov. 26

NASA launches the Mars Rover America celeto find out of brates the 125th there was ever Anniversary of life on the planet. the Statue of Liberty.

Oct. 28

seasonal favorites Are you the kind of person who makes note of when the big events are in the lives of your friends and family but can’t seem to remember to go buy a card in time? Then this project is perfect for you!

project idea! greeting card box Holidays

Sympathy

Congratulations

Birthday

Anniversary

you will need: decorative wrapping paper shoe box and lid scissors tape cardstock ruler cards glue markers

what to do:

Choose a fun, patterned wrapping paper and wrap the shoe box and lid separately.

Determine what card categories you will have. You will have one cardstock divider for each category. Here

are some ideas: - birthday - anniversary - sympathy - congratulations - holidays (Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Halloween, etc.)

The cardstock will be used as dividers to separate the various greeting cards. Measure the cardstock so it is the same width as the shoebox and about two inches shorter than the height of the shoebox. Cut the cardstock accordingly.

4. Cut cardstock into strips that are

2” wide by 1” high. Fold them in half so the final dimensions are 2” wide by 1/2” high. These will become tabs where you will write the card categories.

5. Using a little bit of glue, secure

the tabs to the cardstock, staggering them so that when all of the cardstock dividers are stacked together, the tabs are all visible. Allow the tabs to stick up from the cardstock a little bit so when you write the category names on them they are visible when stacked.

6. Using markers, write the categories of the various cards on the tabs.

Start collecting greeting cards to fill up your box! Whether you decide to make all of your cards or you buy a few every time you go to the store, the idea of this box is that you will always have cards on hand for the special occasions in your life!

Need a yummy snack that’s different from the usual? Check out these great ideas! seasoned crackers

bananutella crunch

1½ bags oyster crackers ½ c. vegetable oil 1 envelope Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix Dill weed to taste Garlic salt to taste 1. Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and mix until crackers are well coated. 2. Bake at 250 degrees for one hour or until crisp, stirring frequently.

graham crackers Nutella shredded coconut sliced bananas 1. Break graham crackers into manageable pieces and spread with a layer of Nutella. 2. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the layer of Nutella. 3. Top with sliced bananas.

pineapple orange creame 6 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate 1 c. chunk pineapple 1 c. milk , lowfat okay 1 c. water ¼ c. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 8 ice cubes

granola bites

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until it reaches the desired consistency. 2. Pour into a chilled glass and drink with a straw!

c. honey ½ c. peanut butter 2 ½ c. quick oats ½ c. raisins bag of chocolate chips

1/3

1. In a large bowl, combine honey and peanut butter until well blended. 2. Add oats and raisins to the mix and stir well. 3. Let sit in the refrigerator no more than 30 minutes to firm. 4. Roll into bite-sized pieces. 5. Melt bag of chocolate chips and dip the granola bites so they are fully covered in chocolate. 6. Let harden and enjoy!

Other yummy ideas! Freeze grapes, canned pears, or canned peaches for a delicious but healthy frozen snack. Buy a tub of vanilla yogurt and mix in your favorite granola cereal.

seasonal favorites 12.

Give your car some T.L.C. Wash it, vaccuum it, and take some window cleaner and paper towels after all of those icky fingerprints.

20 fun

things to do

spring break during

1. Pick one day to stay in your jam- 6. mies from the time you wake up until the time you go to bed.

2. Go

to breakfast with a friend. Friends and pancakes make life so much more happy!

3. Write letters to 5 different people

you haven’t spoken to for a while. Include a photo, a fun recipe clipped from a magazine, or if it’s a grandparent, your latest art project or writing assignment. They’ll love feeling included in your life.

4. Go to a matinee movie. 5. Deep clean your room. Make it fun — set up a laptop on your bed and pop in a movie. Have a tall glass of juice, soda, or hot chocolate sitting

7. 8. 9.

Invite a friend over for pedicures. It’s spring ... almost flip flop and sandal season. Polish up those toesies!

13.

Call up a friend and get day passes to your local gym. Have 14. fun working out, using their pool, and taking a class.

Have a themed movie night with complete with two or 15. friends three movies to match the theme and snacks too. by to reward yourself Make ice cream floats out of all for progress you make every few minutes! 16. different kinds of sodas — grape, lemon-lime, orange, cola. Clean out your closet. Head over to a thrift store and challenge yourself to put together Take naps. You’re a teenager — 17. an entire outfit for $_____ or less. you need a lot of sleep.

Have a slumber party with your girlfriends and take turns doing Read through a book of the Bible. 18. each other’s hair and make-up. Choose a book you’ve been wantFind a friend that has a game sysing to read and tackle it over some that would allow you guys to hot chocolate during your break. 19. tem have fun while doing an aerobic Choose a version that is easy to activity. Finish off your workout understand, like The Message. with smoothies. Learn something new. Learn how 10. Take a day trip with your friends to crochet, embroider a hand family to somewhere an hour towel, make fondant cakes, sew a 20. or away, just to explore new sights. blanket, play a new song on the piano, bake a pie from scratch. Cook dinner for your family.

11. Plant flowers.

fashion

e accessoriz your spring! Spring is here! Add a few new fun accessories to your wardrobe this season to give a new feel to some of your existing outfits.

fashion outfit #1 Check out this great spring outfit! This white and light blue printed top is shown over a white longsleeved shirt for added warmth for a cool spring day. Add a pair of navy blue skinny pants, embellished flip flops, and a long necklace.

outfit #2 This spring outfit incorporates both pale purple and pale pink. This oversized light purple top is paired with a pair of dark jeans, a simple bronze necklace, and a cute pair of pale pink flats. The top is lightweight and perfect for the changing weather, but the jeans allow for a little extra warmth.

spring

fashion!

fashion outfit #1 This outfit blocks three different colors and one shade of another. It’s a perfect outfit for spring because it offers a cute, springy skirt with the added warmth of a long-sleeved jacket over a tank top. The outfit is completed with a complimenting orange necklace and an adorable pair of flats.

outfit #2 This outfit blocks two bold colors — blue and turquoise — and then adds accents of warmer colors with mustard yellow and orange with the scarf and shoes. This is a great spring option too because the dress is a lightweight material but the jacket will keep you warm if the spring air in your climate is still chilly! And nothing tops off an outfit quite like a long necklace and a cute scarf!

color blocking. color blocking defined

color blocking: bold, complimenting but contrasting colors used together to create an awesome outfit.

beauty bits of

perfectly pretty pedicures!

It’s almost sandal & flip flop season, which means it’s time to shed the socks & bust out the pedicure supplies! Treat yourself to a new bottle of nail polish & check out these tips for perfectly pretty professional-looking pedicures!

step #1: file Aim for a squared-off nail when you go to file your toenails. Use the file to even the outer edges (with an up and down motion) of your nail & then file the tips of your nails across, giving you that squared nail.

step #2: buff

step #3: file

Buffing is one of the secrets to a professional-looking nail job. Buffers have varying sides of roughness, designed to even out the rough surfaces of your nails so polish goes on smoothly!

Polish your toesies! Choose your favorite spring shade & carefully paint your nails using fluid strokes from the base of your nail to the tip. Remember, nail polish does much better applied as two or three thinner coats.

step #4: top coat The other secret to a professional-looking nail job is to use a clear, glossy top coat. This will not only protect your polish job from chipping, but it will add a glossy look to make your nails appear solid, professional, & finished. And for fun — add a few decal stickers or gems!

It completely depends on what kind of secular music we’re talking about. As Christians it’s not like we need to only listen to worship music and nothing else. There are a lot of great songs from all different genres that are fun but still squeaky clean. But at the same time, secular music that’s littered with swea ring and suggestive, violent, or vulgar lyrics have no place in our lives. Satan’s name was Lucifer when he was an angel in Hea ven before the world was made. Did you know that he was in charge of music there? He eventually decided that his way was better than God’s way and he was cast out of Heaven. So Satan knows a lot about music and he tries to use it to distract us from God. Take a survey of the music you own or listen to — does it glorify God or Satan? We think secular music is okay as long as it’s consumed in moderation and doesn’t celebrate things that would hurt the heart of God. Ask your parents for help in deciding what’s okay to listen to!

s themselves are not bad. It’s a lack Like a lot of other things, credit card n’t take on a credit card if you have of discipline that’s bad. You should e. naging the money you already hav not yet mastered the principle of ma e, tith to g rnin luate your finances! Lea Be honest with yourself as you eva icinto savings, and making wise cho sticking to a budget, putting money are priorities before one should es when it comes to spending money n ount. Credit cards come in handy whe consider opening a credit card acc e aus bec , that requires getting a loan it’s time to make a major purchase it card payments help build good months and months of on-time cred lot think that credit cards can cause a credit history. But until that time, we p. sho to love Especially teen girls who of unneeded stress for a teenager!

We don’t have to tell you how awesome sleep is! At this phase of life you probably can’t get enough of it. Your body goes through so many physical changes during the teen years so it’s only natural that it would leave you feeling exhausted! Sleep affects your mood, your attentiveness, can contribute to illness as your immune system starts to wear down, and can hinder your overall effectiveness throughout the day. Did you know that teenagers need at least nine hours of sleep? How many hours do you get on average? Make it your goal for the rest of the year to get more sleep. Set a “bedtime” for yourself that would allow you to get the number of hours of sleep you need. As that time approaches, start a winding down routine. Dim the lights, wash your face and brush your teeth, listen to some soothing music, and prepare yourself for a good night’s sleep. Avoiding caffeine and chocolate after you’ve had dinner will help your body be more naturally ready to fall asleep. Turn off your text message, voicemail, email tones so that you can fall asleep without constant interrup13 tions from your cell phone! What do we think about sleep? We think it’s awesome and so crucial to your development as a teen girl! Writing this makes us want to take a nap now.

the events of

Easter Week Sunday Read Matthew 21:1-11

to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (NIV).

This day is referred to as Palm Sunday — the day that Jesus came riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, and those who were there to greet Him laid palm fronds and pieces of cloth on the ground as a sign of reverence to their King.

Years before Jesus was born it was prophesied (predicted, revealed by God’s power) that this is how Jesus would enter the city — on a donkey — humble and without grandeur.

The people who ushered Him into the city said: “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Matthew 21:9, NIV).

Jesus rode into town on a donkey into the city where He knew He would soon be betrayed by a close friend and killed. He knew all of the events that were about to take place, yet He chose to come anyway.

On this day, prophecy was fulfilled. Zechariah 9:9 says, “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes

Talk about a big day for Jesus.

Monday Read Matthew 21:12-17

On this day, Jesus took a direct and public stand against the wrong and disrespectful things that were being done in the temple.

The temple, like our churches today, was meant to be a holy, reverent place where people could come and spend time in God’s presence. Instead, people were setting up a market-type environment and doing business — some dishonestly.

Jesus was outraged because the intent of the temple was the be a place: • That was reverent. Not filled with animals to be sold or filled with people who had no regard for moral living. • That was full of truth. Where people could go to experience the truth that comes from knowing God. Not filled with people bargaining or dishonestly conducting business. • That took a stand against evil when people were being deceived, living immorally, or were conducting dishonest business. Jesus still took the time to heal and minister to the people that came to Him in the temple because He was filled (and is still filled) with compassion for the broken and the hurting. Despite Jesus’ intense anger, He was overcome with love. He knew that in four days He was going to willingly die so that the sins of everyone in the whole world — present and future — would be forgiven if they just ask.

by katie mattiuzzo Tuesday Read Matthew 21:18 through Matthew 24:51 This was a full day of teaching for Jesus that covers the span of several chapters. It begins with Jesus performing something miraculous where He cursed a fig tree and it immediately shriveled up. As a teaching point, Jesus told the disciples the importance of having faith when praying for something — that by faith you will receive what you pray for according to God’s will. After this event Jesus enters the temple area and the priests and elders begin to bombard Him with questions about whose authority Jesus is operating under. The religious leaders, on a mission to trap Jesus in His words, were left in a conundrum when Jesus turned the question back around to them about where they thought John the Baptist got his authority: “They discussed it among themselves and said, ‘If we say, “From heaven,” he will ask, “Then why didn’t you believe him?” But if we say, “Of human origin” — we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet’” (Matthew 21:25,26, NIV). The teachings continue as Jesus tells parable (short stories designed to teach a moral or religious lesson) after parable.

Thursday Read Matthew 26:17-30 Today was Jesus’ final Passover Feast with His disciples before He was crucified. The Passover is a commemoration of when the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt. To read more about the history behind why the Passover is celebrated, click here and here. While Jesus and His disciples were eating dinner together, He said, “‘Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me’” (Matthew 26:21, NIV). The disciples were immediately alarmed and said, “’Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?’” (Matthew 26:22, NIV).

Wednesday Read Matthew 26:14-16

“Jesus replied, ‘The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born’” (Matthew 26:23,24, NIV).

Friday Read Matthew 27:1-66

Jesus’ disciple, Judas, had already made plans the previous day to betray Jesus for a mere 30 pieces of silver.

Even in the last week of His life, Jesus was concerned with teaching the people Truth. He never gave up. He never threw in the towel and decided to take the week off. He never entertained the idea that His ministry in those last days was insignificant. He loved on the people He came in contact with and taught as much as He could before the day of His death.

Judas abandons concern for his eternal security and thinks only about his earthly security — and betrays Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.

There is a lot of speculation about how the day Jesus was crucified became known as Good Friday. Some say the day was intended to be referred to as “God’s Friday” but it was improperly translated or corrupted through the years. Others say the original word that meant “good” also had another meaning — holy — so the correct name for the day should be “Holy Friday.” We read in the Old Testament about sacrifices that were offered to the Lord. Burnt offering | Leviticus 1:1-17; 7:1-10 Guilt offering | Leviticus 5:14-19; 7:1-10 Sin offering | Leviticus 4:1-5:1-13 Grain offering | Leviticus 2:1-16; 6:14-23 Fellowship offering | Leviticus 3:1-17; 7:11-21 These sacrifices were for different purposes. Atonement, or payment, had to be made for sin, so people in the Old Testament constantly made sacrifices. We see the significance of the shed blood of a pure, innocent animal to atone for our sinful selves in Leviticus 17:11: “For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life” (NIV). This is what Jesus did for us. Instead of us having to continue to make sacrifices to atone for our sinful nature, Jesus, being perfect and innocent in every way, offered himself as a sacrifice. When He died and His blood was spilled, that covered all of our sins — people everywhere and for all time. We could be atoned and forgiven for being sinful by just praying and asking God.

Have you ever been betrayed by a friend? You invested in someone’s life and thought you had a mutual love and respect for each other, only to find out they turned on you? Can you imagine doing that to Jesus? At the end of this passage Jesus led the disciples in communion. Be sure to take time to remember Jesus today. If possible, attend a Good Friday service at a local church tomorrow so you can partake in communion — the eating of bread to remember how Jesus’ body was broken and the drinking of grape juice to remember how Jesus’ blood was shed so that our sins could be covered and forgiven.

tough

question

soldiers and declared, “The battle is over – I have complete victory!” Victory over death and hell and the grave; victory over the devil and his demons. On the cross He purchased salvation for mankind. This was a period of time when Jesus spoke to realms unseen by the human eye, “God has the final word!” He by michael tolbert proclaimed His message of victory over all their schemes and all their F r o m work and all their strategies – and the be- the sentence of their sure judgment! ginning of Another interpretation of these days God’s wonderful is that Christ by the Holy Spirit proplan to bring salvation claimed through the mouth of Noah (2 to the world through Jesus, that What an interesting quesPeter 2:5) a message of warning to the unfolding story has been fought tion! While there is no ungodly generation that was eventuagainst. Throughout history leading doubt the events leading ally destroyed in the great flood and up to the birth of Jesus, the enemy up to Jesus’ death on the who are now in Hades (Luke 16:19-31) of our lives worked tirelessly to stop cross and being raised from the dead awaiting final judgment. the coming of Jesus and to destroy were filled with unbelievable emotion, mankind in the process. An important thing to remember the Bible is somewhat silent on the subject. First Peter 3:18-22 have long been Along the way, these wicked spiri- is that neither of these passages some of the most difficult Bible passag- tual beings were taken captive and teach that those who did not follow God or accept Christ by faith during es to interpret. bound, awaiting their final judgtheir earthly lifetime will have a secment for working to lead mankind There is, however, one word that ond chance to accept forgiveness away from God. One view of these comes to mind as I think about these and spiritual salvation after death. three days is that their soul went three days. The word is victory. Choices determined destiny. That to the place known as Sheol or Hatruth remains today. In every sports event one team or des which means “place of the deindividual comes out a winner. I parted dead” (vs. 18). Hades was a Peter’s readers have been pointed played baseball growing up and can temporary place. If the person was over and over again to Jesus who unstill remember the thrill of catching a believer in God he went to the justly suffered at the hands of people. that almost impossible hit to center side known as Abraham’s bosom – a He came doing good and people field causing my team to experience place of rest and peace. If he was an treated him unfairly. And yet blessing victory! Usually we celebrated after- unbeliever he went to the other side and honor were His as He persevered wards by lining up to look our op- of Hades – the side of torment. on the way to an incredible victory! ponents in the eye with one thought Between Jesus’ death and resurrec- You and I are on a journey in this resonating over and over — we won! tion, He walked into this “Prisoner maze called “life.” Along the way We were the victor in the contest. of War” camp filled with enemy we will be faced with tough ques-

Q.Where was Jesus during the three days between his death and resurrection?

tions like this one; questions without easy biblical answers. But in the end, perhaps we will know why God didn’t think it was necessary to spell it out. This Easter when you think about these days before the Resurrection of Jesus, think of a great athlete having won a great victory. Call the family. Call the media and the doubters who said “you’ll never win” with these words: “I did it – the victory is mine!” Reverend Michael Tolbert is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God. He currently serves as a Missionary Associate with Convoy of Hope as well as a Chaplain with Hospice Compassion.

QUIZ

how much do you know about the events of Easter? 1. Jesus rode into the Jerusalem riding a: a.) mule c.) donkey b.) camel d.) horse

Check out the

Teen

Girl

Blog

irls: g n e e t r blog fo .agblogger.org teengirls

2. The Sunday that Jesus entered Jerusalem is also known as: a.) First Sunday c.) Ash Sunday b.) Palm Sunday d.) Mourning Sunday 3. Who carried the cross for Jesus before He was crucified? a.) Simon c.) Peter b.) John d.) Thomas 4. Who was the first person to discover that Jesus had risen from the dead? a.) Mary the Mother of Jesus b.) Mary Magdalene c.) a Roman guard d.) Joseph Answers: 1. c.) donkey 2. b.) Palm Sunday 3. a.) Simon 4. b.) Mary Magdalene

Christian music listeners love Jamie Grace and it’s no wonder why. The 20-year old from Atlanta is a full-time college senior, inspirational speaker, and singer. then I went crazy. I didn’t even realize that the Grammys were coming up.

Q. What are some of the strugQ. Why did gles you’ve had as an artist? you want to become a Christian artist? A. There were lots of doubts if I

A. I’m a pastor’s kid. I’ve always been

Jamie Grace’s single “Hold Me”, featuring Toby Mac, was recently nominated for a Grammy for “Best Contemporary Christian Song.”

involved with music and it has always been my biggest dream to be a singer. I was about 14 years old when I knew I wanted to pursue music full-time as a career. Before I learned the guitar, I started with the drums. My fascination with the writing-aspect of music, allowed me to share the message of hope, resilience, and God’s love with others through my songs.

could do this full-time. I used to record albums in the dorms and sold them on iTunes (I only made about $40 bucks in a few months). One question I always asked myself was, “God, why is this taking so long? I’m doing this for you.” There were times I’d think, Maybe this isn’t what God wants for me. But I was constantly reminded of why I do what I do which allowed me to have fun. It was through the trust and faith I have in God that I overcame my struggles. I also knew my purpose. Because I knew my purpose, it didn’t matter if my career was super successful or didn’t come with awards. No matter what I do or don’t accomplish, I want to be able to share God with others.

This acoustic soul-singer has come a long way since she was discovered on YouTube by Toby Mac. Her videos full of personality of singing songs with her sister proved to be more than enough for Gotee Records to sign her Tell us about the Grammys. for a recording contract. Her career as Never had I expected to be a singer songwriter has not been withnominated for an award, let alone a out its struggles of dealing with Tourette’s syndrome, social differences, Grammy. My love for the Dove Awards is so strong that I almost forgot about and faith-questioning. the Grammys. It came out of nowhere Jamie spent time talking with Peri- that I found out about the nomination What artist do you really want steria Contributing Author, Ashlee through a friend while I was on my tour to meet? Why? 18 Chu before the 54th Annual Grammy bus. At first, because I didn’t believe Awards. At the Grammys, I really want her, I looked online, saw my name, and

Q. A.

to meet Reba! I love her music, her twang, and her show. Because I was raised around Christian music, I’ve actually been able to meet a lot of the artists I look up to. There are a few I still haven’t met – DC Talk, Natalie Grant (Met her at the Grammys!), and Kevin Mac.

What do you think when peome stay focused throughout the process because I do the music (melody) ple want to meet and interview you? first and then finish with the lyrics. I am always so honored. It blows Walk me through a week with me away that people take the time to talk to me about life. Sometimes durJamie Grace? ing autograph-signings people start Mondays: interviews and home- with, “I know you’ve heard this a thouwork, Tuesdays: class, Wednesdays: inHow do you manage to stay terviews and my home church, Thurs- sand times but...” I am never bored or who you are in the midst of other days: class and homework, Thursdays/ annoyed of meeting and talking with people. artists? Fridays – Sunday/Monday: tour and What would you like to achieve There was a time I recorded a relaxation in your lifetime? YouTube cover with Toby Mac which If you could give advice to dropped on Valentine’s Day. I was so girls/teens, what would it be? Why? I will graduate college this year nervous that I cracked lame jokes. with a degree in Child and Youth DeIn ninth grade, I found out I had Maintaining my composure after a velopment. One of my dreams is to be Tourette’s Syndrome. It was when I was few minutes was easy because I rethe Christian version of “Super Nanny,” membered that they were just people. around 13 or 14 when I wanted to fit in so obviously faith-based. Eventually I Growing up, my mom never allowed but I stuck out like a sore thumb be- want to be married with a million kids me to idolize anyone, so I view them cause of the syndrome. That time was (at least 10). I already play the banjo, as accomplished role models for wis- very hard for me because I looked and so living on a farm would be perfect. acted so different because of all the dom. It was so much fun. Throughout my life, I want to be able twitching. But I know now that I wasn’t How much of your faith makes and am not the only one living with To- to share my faith with others through whatever platform God gives me. it into your songs? Why? urette’s. There are tons of reasons why On a more personal level, there were During the songwriting process people don’t fit in – especially girls. I stop, pray, and listen. That’s how my My advice? Be yourself. You have to times when I was younger that I’d look songs come about. One time I drove know who you are. You’ve probably in my mirror and be disgusted with around Atlanta and just prayed (with heard it before but, it’s about knowing what I saw. But God got me through my eyes open), “God show me your Whose you are to know who you are. I that time by reminding me that I was people, your world, your vision.” He belong to the King of the Universe and His and that He created me without poured into me so much that day that Creator of everything, and He created fault and for a purpose. Now, I look in I was able to pour out to others. Many me without fault. Differences don’t that same mirror and am pleased with of my songs come from real life expe- make you any less because God thinks what I see for I know I am a princess riences too; like “Hold Me.” There’s you are wonderful and have a purpose of God. one song of mine about a friend’s son for His Kingdom. He will always be For more information about Jamie going through very difficult medical there. Grace, visit jamiegrace.com.com. times. It’s the smallest things that help

Q. A.

top 10 Christian songs #1. #6.

My Hope Is In You Aaron Shust

Remind Me Who I Am Jason Gray

(for the week of February 25, 2012, billboard.com)

re I

#2. ildWBeinghelo42ng9 Bu

#3. Busted Heart (Hold On To Me)

#4.Strong ToEnouSagh ve Te nth Avenue N orth

for King & Country

#7.

Overcome Jeremy Camp

Enough Strong ew West h Matt

#8.

Love Come #Big9.Daddy ToWeaLifeve

Lift Me Up #5. The Afters

#10.

We Are Kari Jobe

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Relativism is defined as the be-

lief that knowledge and truth exist in relation to culture, society, or historical context, and are not absolute. Relativism accepts that truth regarding faith is not exclusively found in Christ, but is rather determined by the environment you find yourself in. According to Josh McDowell, 94% of all teenagers believe that truth is relative. Furthermore, McDowell’s research indicates that 91% of all Christian teenagers affirm the belief that truth is relative. The idea that truth is determined by our cultural context is an intriguing concept and one that is actually played out … to some degree. For example, I recently visited one of the British Isles and quickly noticed something different about their methods of transportation. While Americans share in their affinity of cars and roads as the main source

of transport, the vehicles on the island came equipped with steering wheels on the right side of the cars and drivers were instructed to drive on the left side of the road. It seems odd to us Americans, but for those living in a British colony, it is the right way to operate a vehicle. Considering the cultural context of a British Isle, it is absolutely the best idea to drive on the left side of the road. Driving in a different part of the world can cause drivers to think differently about the path they’re going to take to their intended destination. In America, people tend to avoid left hand turns into busy traffic. We often discover a longer, yet less burdensome path by turning right. In British countries, however, the tendency is to avoid making a right turn. We all eventually make it to our destination, but we get there the best way that works for us.

Similarly, many people go down all kinds of different roads hoping it’s the right road to Heaven. The assumption is The assumpthat getting to Heaven is tion is that like trying to getting to maneuver a Heaven is like car through busy streets trying to on the way maneuver a to the mall. car through A growing busy streets thought of many Ameri- on the way to cans is … as the mall. long as I arrive to the destination (Heaven), it doesn’t really matter how I get there. At the core of relativism is the belief that there are many ways to Heaven, and that we get to decide which way works best for us. It sounds fascinating, but the problem with that view is Jesus.

I was recently in Washington State with my family. One morning we decided to visit my wife’s aunt and uncle who live on an island. The only way to get to this island is by driving on a narrow bridge. There was no other way to get there. If people want to go to this particular island, they have to drive across this one bridge to get there. No one argues that there must be another way. No one suggests that the bridge is inconvenient. No one claims to know a better way. And no one demands that the bridge doesn’t work for them. You see, Jesus is the bridge to Heaven. Paul writes to young Timothy in 1 Timothy 2:5,6 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. He is the way and only way to Heaven. While

there may be several roads to take on the way to the mall or our favorite restaurant, Jesus provides one road to Heaven. This is great news. Even though culture may try to sway us from our sincere devotion to Christ, we can rest assured in knowing who Jesus really is. He not only knows the way, but He is the way. The Bible clearly proclaims the exclusivity of Jesus Christ as the one and only bridge between God and man. It is His death which is the sacrifice that cancels God’s hatred toward sin, and it is His resurrection which proves the value of His death. It is faith in Him which enables His people to enter into Heaven. How we enter Heaven is not relative. The only way to Heaven is absolutely through Jesus. “We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood” (Romans 3:22-25, NLT).

Ryan is the National Young Adult Ministries Coordinator for the Assemblies of God. He is also the father to an energetic five and a half year old daughter and husband to the most beautiful girl on the planet. Together, with his family, they enjoy watching and reenacting Disney movies, eating at Chick-fil-A, and traveling.

QUIZ how much do you know about the Bible? 1. The Bible has ____ books. a.) 86 c.) 36 b.) 106 d.) 66 2. There are ____ books in the Old Testament and ____ books in the New Testament. a.) 39, 27 c.) 42, 24 b.) 27, 39 d.) 24, 42 3. The last book of the Old Testament is ___________. a.) Micah c.) Malachi b.) Haggai d.) Jude 4. The Gospel books are four different accounts of Jesus’ ministry and life. true false 5. There are ____ books in the Bible written about women. a.) 0 books — just stories about women within books of the Bible b.) 1 book, Esther c.) 2 books, Esther & Ruth d.) 3 books, Esther, Ruth, & Haggai 6. The books of the Bible Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon are considered ______ books. a.) Allegorical c.) Lyrical b.) Romantic d.) Poetic

Answers: 1. d.) 66 2. a.) 39, 27 3. c.) Malachi 4. true 5. c.) Esther & Ruth 6. d.) Poetic

Jesus repeatedly said He is God. The belief that Jesus is God was not made up by Christians, but is something Christians believe because Jesus said it himself. Mark 14:61-63 writes, “Again the high priest asked him, ‘Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?’ ‘I am,’ said Jesus, ‘And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming of the clouds of heaven.’ The high priest tore his clothes. ‘Why do we need any more witnesses?”’ Also, in John 8:58 (NLT) Jesus claims eternality when He says, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I am!” In addition, some pop culture celebrities may claim that they can point you on your path to Heaven. Jesus, however, not only points people to Heaven, but promises that He is the only way to Heaven, saying in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” If there is another way to Heaven besides Jesus, then His six-hour painful execution on a cross for our sin was pointless.

Want a good book that will challenge you to live a life of purity? Check out these great options!

very teenage girl craves male attention. But how does she know when and where to draw the line? What if she’s already stepped over that line? The technical virgin, a term becoming all too familiar with Christian teens, is someone who believes in abstinence but allows loopholes in their physical relationships, thereby compromising true purity. With her straightforward, in-your-face writing, Hayley DiMarco shows girls: - what they are really saying about themselves through their sexy actions - what happens when purity is reduced to a technicality – what words like abstinence and commitment really mean - what God says on the subject of purity

Since its release in

2000, And the Bride Wore White has touched the lives of over 100,000 young women. Author Dannah Gresh exposes Satan’s lies about sex, gives a three-step plan to breaking off sinful relationships, provides compassionate guidelines for healing, and lists seven secrets of sexual purity to apply to your life. Gresh includes passages from her diaries and journals that show the joy and heartache of her dating years, the challenges and tempations, successes and failures. She includes stories, interviews, and insights from such well-known writers, speakers, and musicians as Joshua Harris, Rebecca St. James, Josh McDowell, and others.

Every

teenage girl wants to be sexy, noticed, and attractive. But what is “sexy”, really? Do teen girls know what they are saying about themselves by the way they dress? Sexy Girls is an honest and provocative look at everything sexy – from clothes and self-presentation to body image. Hayley DiMarco shows teen girls: - why little things called hormones affect the way guys look at girls - what girls are really saying by the way they dress - what God thinks about teens trying to be sexy

Every Young Woman’s Battle, learn how the sexual battle begins in your heart and mind. Understand your hunger for attention from guys and recognize and avoid the potential pitfalls awaiting young women on the journey toward adulthood and possible marriage. Find out how the media, novels, fashion, Internet chatrooms, and boy and beauty obsessions influence your sexual choices — and what you can do about it and develop a deeper, more satisfying level of intimacy with God.

I was born in northern Minnesota

during the worst blizzard of 1936 and reached my teen years in the Fabulous Fifties. Think bobby socks, saddle shoes, and poodles skirts over layers of crinoline. My family lived in the country seven miles from the small railroad town of Proctor and up the hill from Duluth, a bustling wheat and iron ore port city situated at the tip of Lake Superior. The most daring thing we did as kids was listen in to the conversations of our neighbors on our rotary dial, party line telephone. Life revolved around school activities and our little white clapboard church. I am thankful for a solid Christian heritage and Vacation Bible School where I gave my heart to Jesus the year before I started high school. That saved me from a multitude of 24 I’m sure. sins,

My father separated himself from the family about the time I entered high school. My mother moved my siblings, a brother and sister — both older, and me into Proctor late in my freshman year. We lived in a tiny apartment upstairs of my grandmother. My father’s family embraced us, making the separation less traumatic. Now, imagine — a transplanted tall, gangly country girl taken from 40 acres of open space and unbelievable emotional security into a borrowed living space and the gracious generosity of relatives. My self-confidence was challenged. I, who had been a leader in elementary, was (except for my size) invisible in high school. I felt the need to “prove” my worth. I joined clubs, choir and the pep squad, but my smartest move was when I signed on as typist for the “Proctor Rails,” our high school

newspaper. But, I’m getting ahead of myself. My mother worked and I was responsible to keep the apartment tidy, the laundry done (we hung clothes on lines outside in the summer and in the basement in the winter), and prepare lunch for my brother who attended college and worked nights on the railroad. My allowance was $5.00 a week. I’m grateful now for the lack of time left to get into trouble. During the summer months I had afternoons to myself. If the weather was favorable, I met friends at Park Point, an amusement park on a small appendage of land that extended into Lake Superior. It was always too cold to swim but pleasant for sun bathing and listening to our transistor radios. The biggest evil was wearing the twopiece swimming suits promoted by Hollywood (definitely not bikinis). We would meet boys and flirt, but

because we were dependent on city buses for transportation and the distance to travel, I couldn’t risk missing my transfer up the hill in West Duluth. Only once did I stay out all night on the Point. A girlfriend and I had told our respective mothers that we were sleeping over at the other’s house and got caught in our lie. That never happened again. You may be sure your sin will find you out. That’ a promise. Before the days of IDs and security guards, cutting classes and visiting rival schools was a daring thing to do. On one occasion, I visited the Duluth high school of a church friend. She told her teacher I was her cousin from Ashland, Wisconsin. The teacher was delighted and asked about the apple harvest … I frantically concocted some believable story … I enjoyed extemporaneous speaking … that at least satisfied the teacher’s curiosity. Notice – the socially acceptable game of hooky led to lying and total embarrassment. I only played hooky once. I was a quick learner. “We all make mistakes, that’s why they put erasers on pencils – but if the eraser wears out before the pencil, you’re

overdoing it a bit.” Self-esteem issues centered on my height and lack of sophistication that I thought the city kids exhibited. When I arrived at high school I met boys my height and taller. I was elated and tempted to date unbelievers, just for the sake of dating. Don’t allow popularity to be more important than a good name and character. Your character is what God knows you to be. Your reputation is what people think you are. Keep the two as close as possible. I enjoyed school and did well, but not my best. I enjoyed the extra-curricular activities. I believe now that I was a “pleaser.” I always had something going. Country kids were (in my mind) viewed as second-class citizens. The boys were brawny and snatched up to play football and basketball. The girls just went to school. I wanted to change that stereotype. After four years on the school newspaper staff, I was elected by my classmates to be editor of our yearbook in my senior year — the first country kid

to hold that office. My siblings were amazed and proud. When I slowed down enough to give God a chance to lead me, He was faithful. My favorite Scripture is Jeremiah 29:1113, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.’” (NIV, emphasis mine). May I encourage you to read your Bible. Psalm 119:105 tells us that it is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. It contains the answers to all your questions. You can’t go wrong by beginning with Proverbs for gaining wisdom and instruction. Let Jesus be the GPS in your journey through life. Alice is a retired pastor’s wife and missionary. She is a mother of three adult chlidren and the grandmother of six beautiful granddaughters between the ages of 9 and 26. Alice is also a freelance editor and enjoys traveling with her husband of 54 years.

Hot

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Clarissa

ordinary happened until around 2:00 when she was sitting in her literature class. The familiar screech of the loudspeaker overhead jolted her out of a semi-coma, and she and her classmates tuned in for whatever announcement the principal was about to make.

“Warning!”

n an attempt to commit to a healthier spring, Clarissa zipped her new wedge flip flops into her backpack, took one last gulp of orange juice, and hollered “goodbye” up the stairs to her mom as she headed out to the garage to the bike and new active lifestyle that awaited her. The weather was finally nice again and everybody was getting antsy to put winter behind them. Clarissa tightened the knot on one of her new athletic shoes and hopped on her bike to make the 2.5 mile trek to Hollandale Senior High School. Classes went by as usual. After lunch the day tended to drag by, but at least Clarissa had all of her assignments done and was prepared for the test she had in history. Nothing out of the

“I’m sorry for the interruption, but as you may or may not know our county has been under a tornado watch for a majority of the day. The latest weather report shows a massive severe storm system that will be moving into the area within the next half hour. Since the timing of the storm is right when school would normally be dismissing, we’ve decided to release you now so everyone can make it home. You are to act in an orderly fashion as you exit the building and head straight home. Thank you for your attention and be safe.”

It was pretty much a guarantee that no one heard the last part of that announcement. The classroom was bustling with students packing up their belongings, nervously chatting about the storm, and making their way out into the hallway. Clarissa joined in with the bustling and then fear shot through her — she had ridden her bike to school today. It was probably going to take her half an hour to get out to the bike rack and make the ride home. She crammed the rest of her stuff in her backpack and made a beeline for the hallway. While other students had stopped to meet up with their friends to exchange thoughts about the storm, Clarissa did not. She scrambled through the crowded hallways towards the exit that fed out to

the parking lot with the bike rack. “Where are you going?” Clarissa’s best friend Andrea yelled in a panicked voice as Clarissa ran by her without noticing. Normally Clarissa and Andrea ride the bus together or get a ride from Andrea’s mom, so Andrea was confused when she saw a flustered Clarissa run the opposite direction from the bus and car drop offs. “Hey, sorry. I rode my bike today. I have to get home before the storm hits. I, I gotta go!” Clarissa replied, never breaking her pace as she hurried towards the exit. Clarissa pushed her way through the crowd of students that was flooding onto the sidewalk, wind whipping her hair and sending shivers throughout her body. All around her students were hurrying to load into cars and buses or briskly walking away from the school and to the safety of their homes a few blocks away. “Clarissa, do you need a ride? It’s getting bad,” Nate, a classmate from biology asked as she bolted past him while he was getting into a car. “Nah … I think I can make it home in time. Thanks,” she yelled back, nearly out of breath. The slow churning storm clouds were made more ominous by the low rumble of thunder in the distance and the occasional flicker of lightning. A few drops of rain spat at Clarissa as she fumbled with the combination on the padlock on her bike. She jerked the lock off, threw it in her backpack, and quickly lifted her bike out of the rack, scraping her shin with the pedal. She looked down and saw her scrape threatening to bleed. It didn’t matter now — she knew she needed to get home. And fast. Clarissa began pedaling. And pedaling. But she didn’t seem to be get-

ting anywhere. Suddenly her legs were like heavy weights and her body seemed drained of energy. The winds had increased and she struggled to combat them. She pedaled. And pedaled. The neighborhood around her seemed to be in disaster mode. People were running out to grab the mail quickly before it started storming. They frantically folded up patio furniture, brought in the flags, and moved their flower planters to shelter. Garage doors were shut and just like that, the neighborhood was quiet. I can make it. I can make it. Pedal harder, Clarissa. Pedal harder. Clarissa was still about a mile away when the hairs stood up across her entire body. Her heart started racing and she felt the blood rush to her face. Her pedaling slowed to a stop. She heard the eerie sound of tornado sirens growing louder. As she looked around Clarissa noticed that the wind had died down and the sky had turned itself a nauseated shade of green. She started pedaling as fast as she could as tears began to sting her eyes and a lump welled up in her throat. Please Jesus — help me get home in time! Protect me and keep me safe. She heard the sound of little balls of ice bouncing to the ground. It was hailing. Clarissa picked up the pace and the intensity of her prayers. God please be close to me right now. Don’t forget about me, please! I’m scared and I need Your help. Just then a car came racing up to her from behind, honking and making an abrupt stop. The door swung open and someone yelled her name. “Clarissa!”

“Get in the car!” the voice ordered. It was Clarissa’s older brother Marcus! He bounded from the driver’s seat, grabbed Clarissa’s bike, and threw it in the back of his pick-up truck. Clarissa ran around to the passenger side and hopped into the warmth and safety of her brother’s truck. Marcus crawled into the driver’s seat, slammed the door, and sped off just as the storm began to take out its rage on the city below. “You okay?” Marcus asked, as they turned down their street. Clarissa burst into tears. “Yeah … I was so … scared” she managed to reply through heavy sobs. “Well I got home right as the sirens went off and the weather radio was saying that a tornado had been spotted a few miles away. I knew that there was no way you were going to make it back before it got bad out since I’ve seen you ride a bike before!” Marcus joked as they pulled into the garage. Clarissa didn’t have the energy left to joke back. And besides, it was true. She didn’t possess even a tenth of the amount of athleticism that her track-star brother did. Clarissa let out a weak giggle as they grabbed their backpacks and headed into the house and down to the basement to wait out the the storm. Clarissa couldn’t stop thinking about God’s promise in Isaiah 41:10 — “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you” (NLT). She knew now more than ever that God had been with her. God, who made the heavens and the earth, held off the worst part of the storm until her brother was able to reach her and bring her safely home. And it is God who continuously protects and provides for His children in the midst of whatever they’re going through.

The voice was warm and familiar.

Did You Know?

Tornadoes turn a dark color when they are carrying debris — otherwise they are white or nearly transparent. While tornadoes have been known to move in any direction, most move from the southwest to the northeast. A tornado that forms over water is called a waterspout.

by katie mattiuzzo

Coming in close with bugs and plane crashes, tornadoes are one of my biggest fears. Well, that and falling backwards down an escalator.

Of course it would seem ridiculous then that a person with such a fear would not only choose a college in tornado alley, but find a husband, a job, and a house there as well. But that’s what I did in Missouri. We spend countless nights in the spring and fall watching red amoeba-like blobs of severe weather consume our part of the state on the weather radar as sirens blare angrily outside our window. I blame my fear of storms on one instance that took place in my home state of Minnesota when I was in sixth grade — referred to by locals as “the storm of 1998.”

Tornado Safety Before the Storm:

Develop a plan for you and your family for home, work, school, and when outdoors. Have frequent drills. Know the county in which you live, and keep a highway map nearby to follow storm movement from weather bulletins. Have an NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery back-up to receive warnings. Listen to radio & television for information.

Some say it was a tornado, others say it was a straight-line wind. There were sheets of metal wound around trees in the aftermath. I’m no storm surveyor, but that sure sounds tornadic.

If planning a trip outdoors, listen to the latest forecasts and take necessary action if threatening weather is possible.

After a long day of driving my parents crazy, my sister and I and my three young cousins who were staying with us that weekend settled in for a fun night in sleeping bags under the dining room table blanket fort we had engineered. Our slumber was soon interrupted when my parents frantically woke us up and proceeded to drag us to the basement as the power went out. Conveniently, we had hidden all of the flashlights in the house inside our dining room fortress. My dad did not appreciate our creativity.

When Warnings are issued or severe weather approaches:

We sat against the basement wall away from the windows and prayed. My cousins were on the verge of falling back to sleep unlike my sister who was doing a poor job masking her hysteria. The storm finally passed and we took a walk through the house to assess the damage. A portion of our roof had blown off and slammed into the neighbor’s garage, totaling both of their cars. Rain was pouring through the exposed area in the roof and we scrambled to make the best of the situation. So in my defense, I come by my fear of tornadoes honestly.

In a home or building, move to a predesignated shelter, such as a basement.

If an underground shelter is not available, move to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Stay away from windows. Get out of automobiles. Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately.

Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in your area. Remain alert for approaching storms.

But we can’t live in fear. Life is too short and God wants to do so much through Tornado Warning: A tornado has us that we cannot be slowed down or burdened by fear. It might be our innate re- been sighted or indicated by weather radar. sponse to a situation, but nothing constructive comes from living in worry or fear. Move to your pre-designated place of In fact, if you’re like me, you usually get more careless, more unfocused, and safety. more irrational when you’re overwhelmed with fear. We would all be better off From the National Severe Storms Laboratory of the 28 releasing our fears and putting our trust in God. In fact, the Bible specifically ad- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration dresses this: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you” (Psalm 56:3, NIV). Memorize http://www.nssl.noaa.gov/edu/safety/tornadoguide.html this verse, recite it when you feel afraid, and know that you are not alone. 26

like,love,&dating LOVE is

[not]

all you need living in a post-Valentine’s Day lull by jennie olson

As we are constantly reminded by

every retail store in America, February is the season for Valentine’s Day. After completing the relationship reality check and coming out lacking, millions of emotional girls drown their loneliness in a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream while watching sappy chick flicks alone. Valentine’s Day has the potential to be one of the cruelest days of the year. Commercials and retailers hype up the holiday until every girl is expecting two-karat diamond earrings or a dozen red roses. No wonder we’re always disappointed. When I was in junior high, the true measure of someone’s popularity was how many Val-o-grams she got on this day. A lot of girls would refuse to be shamed by carrying around only one measly carnation, so they would make a pact for everyone in their clique to send each other Val-ograms to make sure they all had an obnoxiously large bouquet by the end of the day. I remember one girl in particular

looking very popular as she strutted around carrying 15 carnations. Her reputation was crushed, however, when everyone found out that she sent them all to herself. Throughout those tough teenage years, I saw that this holiday separates the thoughtful friends from the crowd of acquaintances who are just wrapped up in their own social status. But beyond that, it’s also a good chance to evaluate your relationship status and remember that being single is a gift – not a curse. While it may be difficult to not have a boyfriend on the most romantic day of the year, being single has far more advantages than popular culture tends to mention. While my friends were busy fighting with their boyfriends, I was out learning how to Salsa dance and taking spontaneous trips to the coffee house with my girl friends. While they were stressing over not having enough time to hang out with their boyfriends, I was going out to the movies. While they were going

crazy from their boyfriends’ irritating friends, I was curled up with a book at home. The apostle Paul has some great advice when it comes to relationships. In 1 Corinthians 7:17 he writes, “And don’t be wishing you were someplace else or with someone else. Where you are right now is God’s place for you. Live and obey and love and believe right there. God, not your marital status, defines your life.” (Message) Paul isn’t saying that being in a relationship is evil or something that shouldn’t be desired. Rather, he’s emphasizing that a relationship or marriage does not have to be the essential factor of your life. Regardless of your relationship status on Valentine’s Day or any other day of the year, the most important thing to focus on is where you find your self worth. Are you defined by a boyfriend? Your looks? Your social calendar? The Bible makes it clear who we are: “What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it —we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are” 1 John 3:1 (Message). Go out and celebrate your singlehood this season. After all, there’s no need to measure your worth by flower count – or karat count. Jennie Olson is a Web Producer at the ABC News affiliate, KSTP, in Minneapolis, MN. She graduated from Evangel University in December 2009 with a degree in Journalism. She is enjoying this phase29 of life as a single in her 20s.

Did the sun come up or did you just smile at me? If there’s one thing we girls love it’s a guy who can say the right thing at the right time. He can melt our hearts, expertly rebound from an awkward moment, and impress our parents with his charm and intellect. The playful verbal banter he exchanges with his friends is attractive and makes you want to be a part of his crowd. Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk past you again? It can be really hard to see past the smooth words and see the guy that he really is. But when the days turn to weeks and the weeks turn to months will he still be that same guy, or will his true colors start showing? Remember me? Oh, that’s right, I’ve only met you in my dreams. Will his colors be like this? “But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother

or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people” (1 Corinthians 5:11, NIV). Or will his colors be like this? “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12, NIV). If you were a new sandwich at McDonald’s, you’d be called McGorgeous. Underline the qualities in the two Scripture verses above. Use them as criteria for choosing the guys you’re interested in — as friends or as boyfriends. If you witness your guy friend or guy crush exhibiting qualities presented in the first Scripture verse, steer clear of his smooth-talking ways. On the other hand, if you witness your guy friend or guy crush exhibiting qualities expressed in the second Scripture verse, you’re on the

right track for choosing a relationship that is God-focused and lifegiving. You must be a magician, because every time I look at you, everyone else disappears. While not every God-honoring, life-giving dating relationship leads to an engagement ring down the road, it will at least ensure that the lines of communication between you and God are open and that you’ll be guided by the Holy Spirit as you explore that relationship. If I could rearrange the alphabet, I would put U and I together. When you find yourself presented with a guy that seems too good to be true, just take it slow. Get to know him. Watch him in different situations. Ask the perspective of your friends and family. And pray for wisdom. Whenever I see you my heart races. I hope it wins first place.

suckers for a good pick-up line by katie mattiuzzo

like,love,&dating you said it!

benefits to being single “You can focus on the Lord and more important things and not worry about every little thing.” — Rachel, 16 “You can find out who you really are without worrying about pleasing someone else. You can experience things and find out who the Lord is without having to be committed to another person.” — Brittani, 17 “[There is] nobody to impress.” — Sammantha, 15 “You can look at any guy you want to and not worry about your boyfriend getting mad or jealous.” — Erin, 15 “Independence is beautiful.” — Stephanie, 15

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girl-talk chocolate cake in a mug! 4 Tbs. flour 1. Combine all ingredients except chocolate syrup and 4 Tbs. sugar sprinkles in a large mug and stir until well blended. 2 Tbs. cocoa 2. Microwave for 3 minutes (time may vary depending on 1 egg the microwave — microwave until cake 3 Tbs. milk appears to be cooked through). 3 Tbs. oil 3. Top with chocolate syrup 1 dash vanilla and sprinkles and enjoy! 1 dash salt 1 dash baking powder drop of vanilla chocolate syrup sprinkles

Teen Girl Daybook mo nday

m arch

t u e s da y

we d n e sd a y

th u rsd a y

Make a list of three people who don’t know Jesus yet. Pray for them and ask God to give you opportunities to talk to them about God.

Romans 1:16

frid ay Take some time to write 2 out what you would say if you were to tell a friend about who Jesus is and why a relationship with Him is important.

2 Corinthians 5:20,21

witnessing Journal — write about a 5 popular person you know of who seemed to have it all but compromised and changed so much that they’re no longer who they used to be?

Luke 9:25

6 In light of the recent Academy Awards, what is the significance of this verse? Think about the reputations of some Hollywood celebrities. What should our priority be? Proverbs 22:1

Think about the people 7 you surround yourself with. Do they build you up or tear you down? What is our role in friendships?

8 Find opportunities to practice humility and not popularity. What can you take away from this passage?

9 In what ways do you inadvertently try to please people over God?

Proverbs 13:10

Luke 14:7-14

Galatians 1:10

po pularity 12 Search “St. Patrick’s Day” on History.com. Learn about how Patrick brought the Gospel to Ireland, a country ruled by the Druid religion. Mark 16:15

Thinking back to what 13 you read yesterday about Patrick’s life, how did God speak to him?

Job 33:14

Why would this verse 14 have been important for Patrick when he faced the Druids?

Patrick is considered 15 the first Christian missionary to Ireland. Find the names of three missionaries your church supports and commit to pray for them.

Psalm 27:1

Luke 10:2

How can you bring the 16 light of Jesus Christ to your community like Elijah did to those who worshipped Baal and Patrick did to those who followed the Druids in ancient Ireland?

1 Kings 18:21-39

st. patrick’s d ay Watch a movie or TV 19 show. How do the characters “conform to the patterns of this world”?

Journal — have you 20 ever known the right thing to do but chose not to do it? What was the outcome? Why is it sin?

21 Don’t be a slave to repeat sin. If there’s a particular issue you struggle with, get an accountability partner and seek advice from a trusted leader.

Romans 12:2

James 4:17

Proverbs 26:11

Grab a newspaper and 26 clip out articles, photos, or headlines of things you’re afraid of. On each clipping, write the verse number from this passage it makes you think of.

What is the difference 27 between fearing the Lord and being fearful? Check out the definition of fear at dictionary.com to see.

What valleys have you 28 walked through recently where you were afraid? How did God help you?

Psalm 31:19

Psalm 23:4

Tough question — do 22 we sin because we are sinners or are we sinners because we sin?

Romans 5:8

What do all of our sinful 23 actions stem from? Give a few examples of how can we control our desires so we don’t fall into sin.

James 1:14,15

sin

Psalm 91:1-16

How amazing that the 29 God that created the world is watching out for you! Make a list of fears you have and pray over them, surrendering them to God.

John 14:27

fear c

Let this be your theme 30 verse when you are feeling afraid — tell yourself over and over again to be strong and courageous!

Joshua 1:9 33