LIFE at its Best
February 2009
3Tests of The
heart Wayne Cordeiro
God Moment Jo & Clem Marrone
THE MUCH-AWAITED BOOK IS HERE
Leading on Empty
calendar of events
february 09 Every Monday •Divorce Care (single again) at the Ministry Center
7pm
Every Friday •Divorce Recovery 7pm at International Baptist Church 1st •Experiencing God 9am at the Farrington High School Library 6th •Prayer & Healing at the Ministry Center
7pm
7th •GDGS at the Ministry Center
8am - 11am
14th •Premarital Classes at the Ministry Center
7:30am
9th •Golf Ministry 10:04am Ewa Beach for 6 tee times 22nd •Baptism 3pm at Ewa End of Magic Island 23th •Life Change at the Ministry Center
6:45pm-9:15pm
27th •Life Group Leader at the Ministry Center
6:30pm-8:30pm
DearNew Hope Ohana,
Let Valentine’s Day remind you to prioritize the relationships that are most important in your life. As you
February is here and
look for ways to express your love
thoughts of valentines,
remember what true love looks like.
chocolates, and abandoned
Love is patient, kind, bears all things,
New Year’s diets abound! If
hopes all things, and love never fails.
your New Year resolutions
Your spouse, children, and family all
are faltering, now is the
need to hear these three powerful
time to breathe new life into
words, “I love you”. Be intentional in
them. How about trying
loving God and loving others.
this resolution? Love God and love others with all your
“Love is patient, love is kind and is not
heart. Jesus says these are
jealous; love does not brag and is not
the most important things.
arrogant, does not act unbecomingly;
His life is the example we
it does not seek its own, is not
should follow. He gave His
provoked, does not take into account
life so that we can have an
a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in
eternal life with the Father.
unrighteousness, but rejoices with
We give our lives so that
the truth; bears all things, believes all
others can know
things, hopes all things, endures all
His love.
things. Love never fails.” I Corinthians 13:4-8
Loving Jesus and You!
Pastor Wayne Cordeiro
Be quick to hear; slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God (James 1:19-20).
God is saying here that we need to check our hearts �irst, because anger and resentment will never result in anything of God. During these times, God is going to test your heart in three areas:
one
A Heart of Integrity
In this case, integrity can be de�ined as “protecting the reputation of those not present in order to gain the trust of those who are.” When I disagree with someone who is not present, it’s easy to speak bluntly and inappropriately, the extreme being gossiping and badmouthing others.
Integrity says, “Hold on! It is not for me to ruin that person’s reputation.” The Bible says, “He who gives an answer before he [fully understands], it is folly and shame to him” (Prov.18:13). For me to come to a conclusion about his reputation, his heart, his spirit, his motives, without fully investigating all of the facts would be wrong. But as I honor that person by �inding out the facts, I also honor God and become a person of integrity.
When you have integrity, those present will say, “You’re right. I want to be like that, too!” You gain their trust. If I slaughter someone’s reputation when he’s not there to defend himself, then those listening think, “Whoa! If he slanders that guy when he’s not around, what does he say about me?”
Be prepared for the inevitable tests of integrity by knowing how to best respond—by refraining from snap judgments or unfounded gossip.
two
The second test of the heart is a tough one:
A Heart of Purity
Our hearts need to constantly be run through a purifying �ilter. Too often, they get clogged with humanity’s excesses, and the resulting build-up taints our motives. I love to be around those whose hearts have been cleansed again and again, people for whom repentance isn’t a bad word, and confession doesn’t come hard. Their outlook stays heavenly—like Jesus’! But typically when a situation upsets me, my negative reaction is the result of something impure already residing deep in my heart.
It happened to Judas. He defended his selfrighteousness: “For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to poor” (Matt. 26:9). He didn’t say this because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief; he pilfered from the very moneybox he was in charge of running! He was really saying: “Let’s sell the perfume and give me the money. I’ll hold it under the illusion of giving it to the poor. First, let me take my commission.” His greed caused his indignation to �lare up. My “Judas Moment” happened to me when I was at a retirement party for another pastor who had been in ministry for 40 years. An offering collected from all the pastors and churches in our district was presented as a gift.
They announced the gift grand total of $40,000! Everyone applauded. As I clapped, on the inside I said, “Forty thousand dollars? This guy already has everything, why does he need $40,000? Do you know how much ministry I could do with that money? I don’t even earn that much! This is so unspiritual!”
3
TE
THE
The applause died down and I heard the Lord call me, “Hey, Iscariot! Yes, you, Wayne,” He gently scolded. I realized that greed had surfaced; that’s why I was indignant. “We could have taken that money and given it to the poor.” I just wanted it for myself.
God uses dif�iculties to uncover personal issues we haven’t dealt with. We’ve refused to resolve them and if we don’t do it now, we’ll continue to hit a ceiling in our growth with the Lord. Because we’re too quick to be indignant with others when really the problem is within our own souls. The third test of the heart is just as challenging, and completely vital:
three
The Heart of a Reformer
There is a major difference between a reformer and a rebel. They may look similar at �irst, but they end up as opposites.
A rebel is a problem-�inder; a reformer is a problem-solver. A rebel is not satis�ied even though the problem is resolved; a reformer rejoices when there is resolution. The rebel’s heart is �ixated on the problem, whereas the reformer’s heart is solution-focused and hurries toward God’s best for everyone involved.
Becoming a rebel is an automatic default in each of us. Becoming a reformer requires discipline and character. I chose the latter, and friends of the same mindset.
TESTS OF
E HEART byWayneCordeiro
The Lord showed me why He chose Daniel— because he had the spirit of a reformer rather than a rebel: “This was because an extraordinary spirit, knowledge and insight, interpretation of dreams, explanation of enigmas and solving of dif�icult problems were found in this Daniel . . . ” (Dan. 5:12). Daniel chose to solve problems, and that set him apart. Choose to be like Daniel, a reformer ready for God to use in great ways for His kingdom. May you be found faithful in each of these three tests: having integrity, resolving personal issues, and choosing to be a reformer. Succeed in these and you will come out as Daniel, able to withstand any circumstance with an extraordinary spirit. L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
5
[content]
February 2009
17
18
24
4 3 Tests of The Heart
18 God Moment
8 Roots of America
21 Jim Mellado
10 History of Valentine's Day
22 A Lesbian's Insight on Marriage
12 New Hope Oahu Pastors
24 Great Aloha Run
17 Life Change
26 Recipe Section
26
• weekendspeakers •
LIFE at its Best
E D I T O R I A L
Wayne Cordeiro Clint Torres A S S I S TA N T M A N A G I N G E D I T O R Mary Waialeale C O P Y E D I T O R S Elaine Ohlson, Rauna May, Carole Kaapu & Clairelane Yoshioka. EDITOR IN CHIEF
• February 7 & 8 • Jim Mellado, President of the Willow Creek Association
shares an intense and moving narrative of near-drowning of himself and his teenage son, Davy, off the coast of Mexico. Jim will share some insights that God gave him in the aftermath of the incident and he will talk through how to deal with difficult circumstances in our own lives.
E D I T O R AT P O I N T
D E S I G N
|
P R O D U C T I O N
Ann Young Clint Torres G R A P H I C D E S I G N E R S Clint Torres, Leon Chingcuangco & Larry Ganiron. PRODUCTION MANAGER ART DIRECTOR
P H O T O G R A P H E R S
Laura Aguon & Brian Wright C O V E R
P H O T O
• February 14 & 15 • Wayne Cordeiro Samson: An Unlikely Voice on Lasting Relationships We live in a day of short-lived friendships,irrepairable marriages, and frustrated families. If there ever were an improbable spokesman for lasting relationships, it would be Samson! But from a life that was spent in reckless living comes invaluable advice. What cost Samson dearly now allows us to be recipients of priceless instruction.
Laura Aguon M A R K E T I N G
Doug Kennedy doug@eNewhope.org 808.842.4242 ext. 210 W R I T E R S
Wayne Cordeiro, Mary Waialeale, Alohi Ae`a & Carole Kaapu
C O N TA C T
I N F O
Clint Torres
• February 21 & 22 • Wayne Cordeiro Solomon: Proverbs That Guide Us in a Recession Two million jobs were lost last year, and we are in the throes of a diseased economy. How do we live in the midst of this wintery season? Proverbs gives us timely hints that will help us weather the prolonged drought without giving up.
clint@eNewhope.org 808.842.4242 ext. 210
• February 28 & March 1 • Wayne Cordeiro
For more information contact us at: New Hope Christian Fellowship 290 Sand Island Access Road Honolulu HI 96819 808.842.4242 | eNewhope.org
David: Building Confidence Amidst Uncertain Times The jobless rate in America is the highest it's been in 45 years. Who's next to lose a job? In the last four months, 1300 have lost their job every day. What can we do to convert this season into something that will work for us rather than against us? David has much to say to us. It would do us well to listen.
L@IB FEBRUARY2009
•
7
President Abraham Lincoln
ROOTS OF AMERICA God says in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “if my people, who are called by
my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.�
In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of Prayer and Fasting for the nation which was divided and in the throes of war. It’s hard to imagine that the leaders of our country today would so clearly proclaim the need for repentance. …It is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scripture and proven by all history, that those nations only are blessed whose God is the Lord. …We have been recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as no other nation has ever grown; but we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.
It behooves us, then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness. Now, therefore, in compliance with the request, and fully concurring in the views, of the Senate, I do by this my proclamation designate and set apart Thursday, the 30th day of April, 1863, as a day of national humiliation, fasting, and prayer. And I do hereby request all the people to abstain on that day from their ordinary secular pursuits, and to unite at their several places of public worship and their respective homes in keeping the day holy to the Lord, and devoted to the humble discharge of the religious duties proper to that solemn occasion. All this being done in sincerity and truth, let us then rest humbly in the hope authorized by the divine teachings, that the united cry of the nation will be heard on high, and answered with blessings no less than the pardon of our national sins, and the restoration of our now divided and suffering country of its former happy condition of unity and peace.
L@IB FEBRUARY2009
•
9
L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
10
H istory of Valentine's
V
Day
byAlohiAe`a
alentine’s Day has become associated with hearts, flowers and boxes of chocolates—a day when romantic love is celebrated and gifts are exchanged. What many people do not realize is that Saint Valentine’s Day was, for hundreds of years, a Catholic Church celebration of two priests, both named Valentine. The first Valentine was rounded up under Claudius the Goth’s persecution in 269 A.D.; the second Valentine was a bishop from Terni, a city 60 miles from Rome. Both men were executed during religious "purges.” The lives of these men ended in ways that were far from romantic, but it was their love for and devotion towards God that ultimately led to their unromantic deaths. While February 14 commemorated the lives of these men, many of the traditions observed today come from more secular avenues. For instance, the ancient Romans celebrated the god Lupercus in mid-February. In an attempt to Christianize the celebration and to dissuade the Romans from immoral behaviors, celebrations for Lupercus became instead commemorations of Valentine. A new tradition, of delivering handwritten messages designed to win women’s affections, developed. In the Middle Ages, Europeans believed that birds chose their mating partners in mid-February. This reinforced the romantic aspect of Valentine’s Day. Amidst the onslaught of roses, balloons, and other goodies that are marketed in February, the lives of the Valentines are worth a moment of reflection. While February 14th has become a day when love for other people is celebrated, it would serve us well to also remember the source from which that love comes, and to remember also our love for Him.
1
The New Hope family consists of 80 churches with the New Hope name and another 22 who affiliate with us under other names. New Hope Oahu, the central church, pioneered by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro, began in 1995. We have since planted nine other daughter churches on the island of Oahu. These are "stand alone" churches with their own financial budgets and individual goals: Diamond Head, Mililani, Pearl City, Kapolei, Ewa Beach, Waipahu, Leeward, Kailua, and Windward Oahu. We are so glad to partner with all 29 New Hope affiliate churches throughout the islands. New Hope Oahu identifies the central church that currently meets in six locations. We are linked by video, vision and vitality. The seven campus pastors are on staff with New Hope Oahu (NHO). With locations in different parts of town, we are all "New Hope Oahu." You are encouraged to visit the most convenient location nearest you. They are located at… (formerly the "Farrington" campus) •Honolulu Hawaii Kai (Aaron Cordeiro, Pastor) •Internet (Mike Sharpe, Pastor) •Manoa (Elwin Ahu, Pastor) •Sand Island (Dominick Kaaihue, Pastor) •South Shore (Richard Waialeale, •West Oahu (Rich Wilbur, Pastor) Pastor) • These are all one church in several locations. We have the same budget, same vision, same accountability, and the same inspiring services. These will include a combination of Sr. Pastor Wayne Cordeiro’s teaching (by live-video) along with each campus pastor’s messages. Each campus has full accessibility to New Hope Oahu’s counseling, marriage classes, men’s and women’s ministries, youth and children, sports, Life Groups, and much, much more! There will be more of these locations springing up this year and will be led by part time, full-time, and bi-vocational leaders. When you are traveling, be sure to connect with us by visiting the internet campus, led by Pastor Mike Sharpe. You will be blessed with the online chat and can connect with our staff instantly. We also have our Prison Campus pastor, Roy Yamamoto, who oversees several New Hope supported campuses in the Oahu prisons as well as in the mainland.
One C New H
Church: Hope Oahu
Pastors from left to right: Dominic Kaaihue, Aaron Cordeiro, Rich Wilbur, Wayne Cordeiro, Mike Sharpe, Elwin Ahu & Richard Waialeale.
L@IB FEBRUARY2009
•
13
Q: This book comes from your own experience with burnout and overcoming it. What factors led to the burnout and how did you begin the healing process? WAYNE: I couldn't see the symptoms coming on. They arrived like an uninvited thief that came in the back door and before you knew it, you were captured. At first, all I wanted to do was to get free from the disintegration that was slowing taking place on the inside. You always burn out on the inside much sooner than you do on the outside. I kept my pace the same but I was like a wounded long distance runner. My life was bookended by weekend services, and ministry needs kept me ransomed. So I kept pressing forward hoping for the symptoms to leave. But they didn't. They only worsened. My first step was finally confiding in a few people what was to me a "weakness" that I should have been able to resolve on my own. You cannot resolve burnout on your own. Q: What are some of the more common warning signs of burnout and how might readers avoid burning out? WAYNE: Things that once came easily to me became increasingly more difficult such as decision making, problem solving, people challenges and preaching. I found myself getting irritable and impatient at little things in life. Joy was leaking and ministry wasn’t fun anymore. People were becoming problems to be avoided. Decisions came hard. I deliberated until I was polarized and paralyzed. Creativity flagged. I duplicated rather than incarnated. I began losing vision for the ministry that was once vibrant and thrilling. Physical symptoms started bothering me as well. I had trouble breathing. My heart began to beat erratically. Q: While this book was written with pastors and church leaders in mind, do you see it branching out to people in other professions? WAYNE: Yes, I do see it branching out to people in other professions. Many leaders struggle with feelings like they cannot take a break. Burnout is no respecter of persons. I just write this from a minister's perspective because that is my calling, but I also write this as a human being, a father, a leader, a person who was committed to God's best. This book will help all of us live more wisely and accurately. Q: In one chapter you discuss the differences between concern and responsibility, and solitude and isolation. Can you briefly explain what those differences are as they relate to burnout and recovery? WAYNE: Concern might include those things that happen in other's lives that cause me some unrest and might even distress me emotionally. However, the responsibility to rectify it is not mine to take. Those things that are my responsibility are those areas and relationships in life that God will hold me accountable for. As an example, the health of my marriage is my responsibility as a husband, but my boss' condescending style of leadership is not. It might be a concern but it is not my responsibility. I must be able to differentiate between the two lest what should be only a concern, I begin to see as my responsibility, and what should be my responsibility, I see as a concern. Solitude and isolation are two other words that we must also distinguish. Solitude are intentional times factored into my life in order to be alone with God. Solitude helps me
recalibrate and heal, be restored and made whole again. It smoothes the wrinkles that come with incessancy or commitment. On the other hand, "isolation" takes place when I have violated the first. It causes me to want to withdraw, but it doesn't necessarily heal me. It is a reaction to an overextended life that has gone past fatigue and is now into exasperation. It is the painful beginnings of a wounded wearied soul that has lost its resilience. Q: What is the most important message you hope to convey to readers? WAYNE: The most important message is this: when burnout hits and you feel lost at sea, it will be too late to anchor our buoys to find your way back. Those navigational disciplines must be established now, long before your soul is famished and your winter goes long. I had driven deeply the pillars of a disciplined daily devotions and an accountability to elders in my life, so that when the roof blew off, I could still keep my wheel on the track because those were life habits I had established. Even when I couldn’t see or even hear, I could trust the rails upon which I was being guided. And let me reiterate, one of the most important buoys that helped me in the healing process was my daily devotions … sitting before His feet on a daily basis, reading through the Scriptures and journaling. I don’t know where I would be if I hadn’t established that one discipline. I don’t think I would be in the ministry today. Q: What are your hopes and prayers for Leading on Empty? WAYNE: There is no pill that would remove every storm and help you to avoid burnout. But what I CAN do is to help the reader recognize the early warning signs, what to look for, and how to be resilient. My hope is to help those who are held in the bondage of depression and vision loss, and I can guarantee that there is a way through. I found it and I am leaving road markers to those who will come behind.
PICK UP YOUR
COP Y
TODAY AT: NEW HOPE BOOKSTORE or VISIT US ON THE WEB AT lifejournal.cc
Q: How did God bless you while you were writing Leading on Empty? WAYNE: Writing this book forced me to record, in an understandable order, the faltering steps that led me to despair and it compelled me to recount how I built every stair step as I found my way back to the surface. Through this, I realized how grateful I am to a Mentor God, a Grace giving Shepherd of my soul who would never let me go. I have come through this a different person with an ever grateful heart that now gushes with thankfulness that I get to help others find their way out of the valleys. Q: Just for fun, what’s one little-known fact about you? WAYNE: I guess most people know that my loves are my grandkids (I have two and one on the way) and my motorcycles. I love to ride. It clears my head and lets me think. I also enjoy farming. Yes, farming! We own a small family farm in Oregon where I enjoy working with animals like cattle and sheep, chickens and dogs. And I have yet much to learn about tending to a garden. I have learned to pray for rain, and during the time I bale hay, I have learned to pray for sunshine. It’s there that I take time to ponder deeply the things of God. I have come to realize that when leaders get too busy with the work of God around them, it can begin to erode the work of God inside them. The tail wags the dog and we find that we have become adept at giving quick answers but not insightful ones. We have become skilled in giving acceptable responses but none that are adequate to touch people's souls enough to affect their lives. On our farm, I get to work with my hands which keeps me attached to the dirt so I can realize daily what I am made of. It restores humility and it keeps me close to Him who chose to be a Shepherd of sheep.
A can did Wayninterviewwith
Cord e eiro
*}
Get Involved in new hope sports this spring
New Hope Canoe Club Registration (Adult and Children Programs)
For more info contact: ph: 441-0928 e-mail: newhopecc-owner@yahoogroups.com
Golf Ministry to reserve your tee-time Contact Walter Yamane at: ph: 394-0094 or Phil Yahsuhara at: ph: 386-9022
Hiking Ministry Contact Doug Maxwell at: ph: 224-7735
Surf Ministry Every 3rd Saturday of the month. Contact Marshall Yanaga at: ph: 277-5500
Tennis Ministry Beginners and advanced players welcomed. To register please contact Kyle Kaneshiro at: ph: 721-8367 email: k2tens@hawaiiantel.net.
character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing to plant andTOlead GUITARthem 1 – INTRODUCTION culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and BEGINNING throughoutGUITAR the world. 2009 JANUARY TO MAY 15 Pacific Rim SPRING Bible College exists to 19 disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher Wednesday’s 4:30 –education 5:30 that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead Instructor: Sam Kapu in culturally-engaging mission-driven churches 808.228.4176 Hawaii, the Pacific Rim andPhone: throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Email: samk@enewhope.org Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in COURSE DISCRIPTION: Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. covers the basictofundamentals of PacificThis Rimcourse Bible College exists disciple emerging playing the guitar, learning the parts of the Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry guitar; the tuning of a guitar, and of skills, course and character, learning preparing them to and plant and lead to play chords strumming culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in patterns. Building a foundation needed the to play Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout world. Pacificand Rimlead Bible College exists to also disciple emerging worship. There will be parts of Christianthis leaders through biblical education class that will cover basichigher song writing that develops their theology, ministry skills, and skills (lyric writing, matching to words). character, preparing them tomusic plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in Hawaii, the Pacific Rim and throughout the world. Pacific Rim Bible College exists to disciple emerging Christian leaders through biblical higher education that develops their theology, ministry skills, and character, preparing them to plant and lead culturally-engaging mission-driven churches in
New Spring Class!
Life Change Breaking Through to Freedom, Healing, and Spiritual Maturity
LifeChange is a 12 week seminar designed to bring freedom, healing, wholeness, and spiritual maturity into the life of believers. Through teachings, small group discussions, dramas, worship, and prayer, participants will have the opportunity to address issues that may be keeping them from fulfilling God’s best for their life. The entire seminar and retreat is saturated in prayer as we seek God to bring the transformation He desires for us. The LifeChange workbook is designed to take a spiritual inventory of our relationship with Christ and to ask God for His supernatural touch as we make changes that will bring freedom and wholeness to our life. In addition to the workbook, participants will be reading: Healing is a Choice, 10 Decisions That Will Transform Your Lives and 10 Lies That Can Prevent You from Making Them. This book will help us to understand our authority in Christ and how to get victory over the enemy. Seminar teachings include: · Your Father Loves You · Humble Yourself Before the Lord · Who is Really Lord of Your Life? · Learning to Walk in the Spirit · Developing Spiritual Disciplines · Choosing To Forgive · Blessed Relationships · Jesus Gave You Power & Authority · Winning the Battle for Your Mind / The Lies We Believe · Strongholds of the Enemy The retreat weekend is a glorious time of seeing God pour out His Supernatural healing in our lives as we seek Him in prayer. It is designed to bring healing and deliverance from specific issues such as fear, anger, bitterness, abandonment, rejection, abuse, and many other issues that we commonly struggle with. Call the Community Care Office at 842-4242 ext. 408 for more information. Registration is limited.
L@IB FEBRUARY2009
•
17
| Godmoment |
n i r u d n ELOVE byCaroleKaapu
g n i
I
n celebration of love and families, Life at its Best had a conversation
with Clement and Mary Jo Marrone, an amazing couple married 63 years ago on September 12, 1945. Amidst a lot of laughter, Jo and Clem told us their story. It all started in England during the turmoil and destruction of World War II. God’s sovereign hand brought together an Irish lass who loves to dance, and a American serviceman. At a dance given for girls helping the war effort, Clem was innocently walking by a group of ladies when one kicked him. (Not a typical God moment.) He was smart enough to ask her to dance. The next morning Clem was shipped out which lead to a long courtship via mail. Two years later, with the war was still raging all around them, they were married. But it was another two years of being apart before the war ended and they returned to the US to start their family. Clem’s father was on fire for the Lord, and through his prayers and persistence lead Clem and then Jo to faith in Jesus. Within a few months God gave them a heart to visit those who were in nursing homes and hospitals; sharing the love of God and His hope. It became a life–long calling and ministry. Together, they were a part of hospital visitation for over 40 years, and most recently as part of New Hope’s Community Care Ministry. Now in their late 80’s, they give of their time and talents as part of our Volunteer Central. L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
19
Clem and Jo have kept God as the center of their lives and their family as they raised four children (two who are still here in Hawaii and a part of New Hope). They have been blessed with twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. We asked them what words of wisdom they would share about keeping marriages strong. Clem said, “Keeping the Lord first is the most important thing. Also, be honest and truthful in your marriage. You can always settle a little argument by discussing it and saying the right things and not blaming. Blaming is not right. The bible says not to let the sun go down on your wrath. Don’t go to bed angry.” He has worked hard to insure that his home is a home of peace. In 63 years of marriage he has never raised his voice at Jo! Jo’s advice is not to rush into marriage, and if you’re a Christian be sure to marry a Christian. If not, you won’t be able to share the most important things of life – the things of the Lord, like praying, going to church, and reading the bible. Clem and Jo pray together twice a day, journal together, and are still serving the Lord as a team. Jo shared a scripture that has been a bedrock of their relationship and six decades of marriage, Isaiah 41:10. Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
has brought us through. If you don’t have trust in the
I will strengthen you,
Lord, you’ll go down the tubes.”
Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Well said, Jo. Our hope is that their story of enduring love encourages you to prioritize the important
She also said, “You have to trust the Lord through thick
things in life, by putting God first and investing
and thin. Just knowing Him and that He is always there
in your family.
L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
God Moment 20
JIM MELLADO
J
im Mellado, President of the Willow Creek Association, will be speaking at the New Hope Honolulu (formerly the “Farrington” campus) on February 7 and 8. WCA, founded in 1992 by Bill Hybels, Senior Pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois works to link like-minded, action-oriented churches with each other using strategic vision, training and resources. WCA has more than 12,000 Member Churches from 90 denominations, and is ministering all over the world. Recently, one of our editors spoke with Jim, a former Olympic athlete with a Harvard MBA, to get to know him better.
What are you looking forward to doing in Hawaii? I’m looking forward to speaking at New Hope. I’ll be sharing an intense and moving narrative of the near-drowning of myself and my teenage son, Davy, off the coast of Mexico and the reality of God’s work in our lives. This experience has played an important part in redeeming a very horrific experience for good. To the extent that God can use our story to help someone see God more clearly, I want to be faithful to do my part. Davy also was a part of the decision to do this since it is his story as well. For us to do this together is very important to me. What is your favorite food? Popcorn What is your Life scripture? (and why) Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans that I have for you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.” This verse has been such a source of Holy confidence in the Lord throughout my life. It reminds me that my life is in His hands. Luck, chance, defeats, hardships have nothing to do with the promise that God has high hopes and a plan for my life no matter what circumstances come my way. God’s ways transcends human circumstances and I can rest in that! What are your hobbies: Running, volunteer pole vault coach at the local high school, and working on projects around the house. What is something people may not know about you: I was born in El Salvador and grew up in seven different countries around the world. My father was an engineer and we moved from one construction project to another building dams, powerhouses, electrical transmission lines and other infrastructure projects. I am both a citizen of the USA and El Salvador. What is something you admire about Wayne Cordeiro: Wayne has been such a blessing to me over the many years I have known him. We immediately connected when we met. He has been a tremendous source of wisdom and advice to me and Bill Hybels, as he has been to many church leaders around the world. I’ve seen first-hand the impact of God using his gifts to bless so many people. I consider it a true blessing every time I get to be with Pastor Wayne.
Do you have a “bucket list” of things you want to do before going home to Jesus? At this point I’m content to enjoy Christ daily and to see His work in the lives of my children. What a blessing! Don’t need a whole lot more than that! L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
21
A Lesbian’s Insight on
MARRIAGE
I can’t pretend to speak for the people who are against gay marriage . . . 284
Sara Sarasohn, discussing in The Washington
Post her upcoming marriage in California to her lesbian partner, explains how the institution of marriage is, literally, coming apart. Today, she argues, couples can have sex without being married. They can have children without being married. They can live together, buy a house together, and partner together in a myriad of ways without marriage being necessary. "I can't pretend to speak for the people who are against gay marriage," writes Sarasohn, "but I think this is part of what they mean when they say that gay marriage will unravel the whole institution. Our national conversation about gay marriage has already shown how the different elements of marriage—legal, religious, romantic, economic, civil, procreative—have become independent . . . . Now, adults have the prerogative to mix and match the various things that make a marriage in whatever way they choose. It's just that when gay people do it, it's more obvious that 'marriage' has already been deconstructed." If Sarasohn is right, this means that the institution of marriage has become functionally and culturally obsolete. People still want to get married. But because marriage has no particular purpose, people can define and practice their marriages in any way they choose. If marriage is being dissolved into its constituent and now unrelated parts, the same could be said of parenting. Single parenting has broken apart the roles of mothers and fathers in a
child’s life. Mothers must often assume the entire burden of raising a child. Divorced fathers are often kept at a distance from their children, with artificial visitation rights and impersonal child support requirements. In many cases, though, now that marriage has become optional for having children, fathers often play no role whatsoever in a child’s life. The dissolution of the family as the basic unit of society means that all of its authority, powers, and responsibilities go, instead, to the government. The state is increasingly assuming the role of the father, functioning as the provider, the protector, and the disciplinarian. The state is also assuming the role of the mother, concerned about our health, nagging us about eating right and avoiding bad habits, and forcing us to be sensitive, well mannered, and nice. But the replacement of the family with the state has only just begun. Nearly 20 European nations already have state laws — regularly introduced in California — forbidding parents from spanking their children. Recently in Canada a father grounded his 12-year-old daughter for posting inappropriate pictures of herself on the Internet, not allowing her to go on a school trip, whereupon the girl sued her father and the court overturned her punishment. The technical term for the state assuming all social authority and control is “totalitarianism.” To avoid such “total” domination and to rebuild a healthy culture, we must put the family together again.
by Gene Edward Veith “Used by permission l (c) 2008 World Magazine, all rights reserved l www.worldmag.com.”
Exercise your right to vote! We encourage you to vote this November.
L@IB FEBRU ARY2009
•5
23
Great Aloha Run FEBRUARY 16, 2009 Celebrating the 25th Anniversary!
The Great Aloha Run in its twenty-four year history has accomplished and achieved many milestones and has been recognized nationally as one of the top “100 Great Road Races” to participate in by Runners’ World Magazine.
Start time: 7 AM at the Aloha Tower
The GAR, an 8.15-mile foot race, begins at Aloha Tower and �inishes in the Aloha Stadium. There are divisions for elites, age groups, wheelchair and handcycle competitors, Sounds of Freedom (military running in formation) and those who just want to walk the course.
# of participants: 20,000 people
There is a place in the Great Aloha Run for everyone who wants to participate. Our very own Pastor Wayne Cordeiro will be at the Start Line praying a blessing and saying the invocation before the race. Register at GAR Expo, Feb. 13 – 15, NBC Exhibition Hall
6:45 AM at the Start Line: Pastor Wayne Cordeiro
L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
24
The Bookstore at New Hope
PrayerHealing &
s e r v i c e
290 Sand Island Access Rd ph: 842.4242 ext. 104
C
Prayer is our personal communication time with God, and He hears all our prayers.
ome & see our wide variety of
Pastor Wayne Cordeiroʼs
Life & Leadership Resources!
Store Hours: Sunday: 9:30am - 1pm Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12pm - 5pm Wednesday: 10am - 7pm Thursday 10am - 5pm Friday: 10am - 5pm Saturday: Closed
February 6 at 7 PM
Our once a month Prayer and Healing Service focuses on just that. Nothing is too hard or impossible for God. It is God’s will for us to be made completely whole and restored. The service begins with Praise and Worship songs, a short message to prepare our hearts, and then individual prayer time. Our prayer team as well as intercessors are available to pray with you. It is a powerful time with the Lord to draw closer to Him.
For more information, call the church office or contact Marsha Kochi at marshak@eNewhope.org.
ou on Y Areding ? y LeaEmpt
Pickup your copy today at New Hope bookstore or online at www.lifejournal.cc
| recipesection |
»Lemon Bars
Filling:
•4 Eggs, beaten
•1-3/4 cups Sugar •1 Tbsp Flour
•1 Tsp Baking powder •1/3 cup Lemon Juice
Combine �illing ingredients and pour over hot crust. Bake 25 minutes. Cool. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into bars.
byKathySueda
Office Ministry Volunteer
Crust:
•2 cups
•1/2 cup
•2 blocks
RS
Flour
Sugar
Butter, softened
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together above ingredients and press into a 9" x 13" pan. Bake 20 minutes.
»Red Velvet Cake 2 ½ cups sifted cake �lour
2 tablespoons cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ cup sugar
byJesseyAhloo
New Hope Sand Island Volunteer
1 ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
2 ounces red food coloring
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar 1 teaspoon vanilla
•Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and �lour
two (9-inch) cake pans. In medium–sized bowl, sift
together �lour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt: set aside.
•In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter. Beat in eggs one at a time. Alternately add �lour
Cream cheese Frosting
1 (8oz package) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (1stick) unsalted butter or margarine, softened
1 pound box powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, cream
cheese and vanilla together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, mix on low speed until evenly blended, then on high speed until �luffy.
mixture and buttermilk. Beat in food coloring and vinegar, and then add vanilla. Spread batter evenly in pans.
•Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Turn onto a rack to cool.
L@IB FEBRUARY2009
•
Recipe
27
Dear Abby,
You just turned one month old, and every time I look at you, my heart feels as if it will burst with love. I still remember the day we saw you. You were only three days old. You immediately became such a special part of our family. You will always remind me of how much Jesus loves me.
Gems along the way
In John 15:16, He says, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…” Before you were even born your Mom and I chose you. Sometimes when a mother gets pregnant, she feels she doesn’t have much of a choice – but we did. Before we ever saw you, we loved you. Before we knew whether you would be a girl or a boy, we wanted you. Before we knew whether or not you’d be healthy, we were committed to you. When I think of you, I think of Jesus and how He loves me. His love has nothing to do with my looks, my height, my health, or my background. He chose to love me, and He chose me to be one of His “adopted” kids. He chose me! Some would have you believe that being adopted makes us “second class” citizens. But the fact is that it really makes us “first class” because we are especially chosen. We’ve received God’s wonderful love of choice! Always remember that a love of choice is the most powerful love of all. God calls it an “agape” love. That’s the kind I have for you. That kind of love requires commitment and it costs a lot…but you’re worth it! I’m so proud of you Sweetheart. With all my love, Dad
L@IB FEBRUARY 2009
•
From a pastor’s heart flows gems of wisdom
that have been collected along the way. These treasures have been mined, cut, and polished by life’s trials and are presented here as a gift from a father to his children. Mined from over a decade of experiences, these truths will sparkle as you read them, bringing the Father’s light into your heart.
Gems Along the Way
28
Excerpt taken from Gems Along the Way © 1997 by Wayne Cordeiro
Journaling daily devotions | February 2009
“How will I be different today because of what I have just read?”
www.lifejournal.cc
media schedule
WA
TH
Friday 10:30 PM KIKU-9 SUNDAY 8:00 AM KIKU-9 1:00 PM OLELO 52 6:30 PM KHON2 TUESDAY 8:00 PM KWHE-11
TUNE INTO THE WORDS OF NEW HOPE
Sunday only KSSK, 590 AM & 92.3 FM 6:00 AM
Lihue, Kauai Monday-Friday HKJC, 88.9 FM 6:30 AM, 5:30 PM, 11:30 PM Hilo Monday-Friday KCIF, 90.3 FM 12:30 PM, 5:30 PM
O E C
RD
EIR
O
ntccou s us a u hold ated for l l i od w s he cre so.” G H , C y g UR thin e da o do CH “On r all the efused t RE CO fulEN fo er grate to able y, but w t of i e jo r s i n u e p s pa to en I ast hat a ing t oped wh o rush p n r a t l e l e no e v s e m o u t a d f e I e r ly is on nbow or e the tim appres s e i n a ep ak long a de ear nIt I am top notic et. Whe g in me efore. rny nd s eb in m er a in a mo isin uns r r s v e h a t o h a a l t fee bre … n’t pull breathe ce, I that was at I have iveness e ver i o t t gh forg on hav d th enou unrise? ciati eminde ds, and ved but w el s u sa We ain r od frien r deser ing’s o g a y e . nev time louds? s, go lt, eless lung gs I’ve last c neth the t gui he in bout ll th anted no was es in t , withou mpel ed a a n e r cern t anyo re g c n o Wh t shap o n s c e m be and bou ose ore n any is m n just a epha do that ay’s dem er to th al. a God d n ly nd ieve ateful th l hard y. The t. Surre the eter ly e b I gr a n en miss d it is o leing anyw the urg us b lse. you an fu o us t ds, and rushed, op grate ge n i h t e an el dem ill not b we dev t w Life sing tha s 11 u a year in p eard . gIh n i ness y ic sa bbin me: ld ra s An o ill haunt st ago 10
ENCORE Church
30
Honolulu Monday-Friday KGU, 760 AM 6:00 AM, 5:00 PM, 1:00 AM
E
YN
Life At Its Best | Dec 08 Spotlight
The
Available at New Hope Christian Fellowship bookstore; 290 Sand Island Access Rd; 808.842.4242 or online at: www.lifejournal.cc.
Picture Yourself With A Great Smile!
P R O F I L E
Ken Yasuhara, DDS
“E
veryone has a beautiful smile. I help enhance what is already there.” That's Dr. Ken Yasuhara’s philosophy about cosmetic and general dentistry. Just ask his patients about the improvement in their appearance and self-confidence. “I’m told I look 10 years younger,” says one. “I’m glad I invested in myself.” Says another, “I saw makeovers on TV, but after seeing Dr. Yasuhara, I know they can be done right here in Hawai‘i.”
Porcelain Veneers • Adult teeth straightening Teeth whitening • Brite Smile affiliate center Tooth colored fillings • Non-metallic restorations
Ken Yasuhara, DDS • 947-8900 Ala Moana Bldg., Suite 1001 1441 Kapiolani Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96814
Dedicated to dental excellence and a lifetime of smiles, Dr. Yasuhara offers full cosmetic services — Invisalign braces, porcelain veneers and crowns, whitening, toothcolored fillings and dental implant restorations. He is a graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Visit his state-of-the-art office for a complementary consultation and an experience that gives new meaning to the word, “Wow!” w w w. k e n y a s u h a r a d d s . c o m
8 Great locations to serve our Customers ...our No. 1 Priority. You’ll find it with us!
Welding Equipment & Supplies Welding Machines, Professional Tools, Electrodes, Wires, Abrasives, Torches, Regulators, Leather Clothing, Welding Helmets and Gases
Safety Equipment & Supplies Gloves, Respirators, Glasses, Body and Fall Protection and Head, Ear & Clothing Protection
Propane Equipment & Supplies Outdoor Gas Stoves & Cooking Accessories & Supplies, Propane Tanks and Camping Equipment & Supplies
Lihue
Niihau
Kauai
Oahu
Kapolei Waipahu Honolulu
Visit us @ www.airgas.com
Molokai Kahului
Lanai Kahoolawe Kona
Propane provided by:
Maui Kamuela Hilo
Hawaii
Honolulu 2305 Kam. Hwy. 842-2222 • Waipahu 94-133 Leokane St. 671-5435 Kapolei 91-102 Kaomi Lp. 682-4288 • Hilo 525 Kalanianaole Ave. 935-3341 Kona 73-5620 Kauhola St. 329-7393 • Kamuela Holomua Ctr. 885-8636 Maui 365 Hanakai St. 877-0056 • Kauai 3990C Rice St. 245-6766
Why settle for “good enough” when you can have the best? The most desirable laminate floors in the world is here! Call our flooring specialist today for a free measure at 447-2763
Ceramic • Hardwood • Laminate • Vinyl • Window Covering Locally owned & operated, since 1974 • 447-2763 www.americancarpetone.com
{
spiritual
}
growth
Growing Deep, Growing Strong conjures an image of a burgeoning blossom, with the potential of bearing tremendous fruit throughout its lifetime. Our Lord has planted that seed of spirituality in all of us, with the hope that we will discover & disperse our true Christian vibrancy and the sweet nectar of Godly joy. This is the essence of Growing Deep, Growing Strong (GDGS), a 2 1/2 hour seminar and membership class. Here you’ll learn the five S’s—Salvation, Spiritual Growth, Stewardship, Spiritual Gifts & Sending Forth. These make up New Hope’s simple structure.
For more information check out http://www.enewhope.org/firststeps/membership/
laura aguon
photography
website www.shootmelaura.com www.shootmelaura.smugmug.com 808 382-9901
aiea bowl
a new experience in entertainment
CATERING AVAILABLE
SP
A ECI
L
New York style Pastrami Burger
Comfortable Atmosphere Super Ono Local Style Food Gourmet Pizzeria & Bakery Trendy Lounge & Bar Fun for Everyone Chef/Owner Glenn Uyeda
Alley Restaurant (808)488-6855 Aiea Bowl (808)488-6854
Wa i k i k i - K a i l u a - H awa i i K a i
o a h u
times&locations
New Hope
weekends Honolulu
Saturday: 5pm • 7pm Sunday: 7am • 9am • 11am Honolulu.enewhope.org
Hawaii Kai
Sunday: 8am • 10am Hawaiikai.enewhope.org
Internet
Saturday: 5pm • 7pm Sunday: 7am • 9am • 11am Internet.enewhope.org
Manoa
Sunday: 9am • 11am Manoa.enewhope.org
Sand Island
Sunday: 9am • 11am Sandisland.enewhope.org
South Shore
Sunday: 10am Southshore.enewhope.org
West Oahu
Sunday: 10:30am Westoahu.enewhope.org
wednesdays Sand Island
Wednesday: 7pm www.enewhope.org