UPCOMING EVENTS | INSPIRATION | MY ROCK | LOCAL SPOTLIGHT | YOUR SALVATION | CONTRIBUTORS
OverflowMag.com June 2011
BAY LIFE ACADEMY
CHRIS AND BERNADETTE PELLO STEP UP TO SERVE SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN
SPIRITUAL STORM SHUTTERS Faith-building and soul-protecting
A father's never-ending hope
SEEING THE FATHER THROUGH JESUS How Jesus shows us the heart of the Father
Real People, True Stories, In Your Backyard
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CONTENTS
EXPECTED 6 8 10 12 16 17 20 24 27 29 30
FROM THE EDITOR MAGNIFY HIM CONTRIBUTOR MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT SALVATION RESOURCES HEALTHY LIFE FEATURE MAGNIFY HIM MY ROCK EVENTS LOCAL CHURCHES
FEATURED 10
Soul Shutters
18
What the Enemy Doesn't Want You to Know
22
Like Father, Like Son
24
A Father's Heart
God’s Word provides perfect instructions for faith-building and soul-protecting; best of all, these heavenly soul shutters are stamped with the Master Engineer’s seal of approval.
Have you messed up lately? Do you believe the devil's lie that God is angry with you? Learn your right's under the New Covenant because of Jesus' perfect work.
Through the life of Jesus we can know the very heart of God. Learn how Jesus gives us insight into our Heavenly Father.
A story of hope revealed through a Nigerian father’s struggle to reunite with his children.
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Fulfilling a Special Need The Pellos reveal their journey and how God led them to serve the community by opening a school for special needs children.
FROM THE EDITOR JUNE 2011, Issue 17 ____________________________________ Editor | Amie Cherp amie@overflowmag.com Sales & Marketing | Chris Cherp chris@overflowmag.com Creative | Brady Wright brady@overflowmag.com Creative | Amanda Wright amanda@overflowmag.com Asst. Editor / Writer | Tommy Burrus The Feature Magnify Him, “A Father’s Heart,” tells the story of a Nigerian father struggling to be reunited with his children (page 24). It is a great story of hope and perseverance that reveals the heart of our Heavenly Father. God desires to reunite fathers with their children, just as He wants to be reunited with His children.
Dear Friends, Father’s Day is coming up this month and it is a good time to reflect on our relationship with God. He loves us so much and longs to have a close relationship with us all. He is not only our God, but also our Abba, Father (see Galatians 4:6 & Romans 8:15). He is our Heavenly Father who loves us so much that He gave His Son Jesus so we could be in relationship with Him. If you don’t know the Father God, then I urge you to go to our salvation section on page 16. Jesus is the way into a relationship with Him. He is a loving Father, who will never leave you. I encourage you to invite Him to be a part of your life today. I want to thank God for my daddy and all he has done for me. When I was growing up, he taught me how to play softball, helped me with my homework, and picked me up when I fell. My daddy was always there for me and my siblings when we needed him. He gave us a foundation for a relationship with our Father God. I see a lot of parallels between my relationship with my natural father and my relationship with my Heavenly Father. My daddy gives me words of wisdom, encouragement, and compassion. He guides me gently and loves me unconditionally. He always has his loving arms open waiting for me to run to him whenever I need him. He comforts, supports, and protects. Thank You, Father God, for allowing me to see a glimpse of You in my father.
Photography | Stephen T Photography Intern | Alexandra Downing ____________________________________ How To Reach Us: 27251 SR 54, Suite B14-605 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 813-915-6700 Phone 813-463-0275 Fax Submissions: magnify@overflowmag.com
In Chris Cherp’s article, “What the Enemy Doesn’t Want You to Know,” learn about our loving Father God and the rights you obtained from Jesus’ perfected work at the Cross. This is something that the devil tries his best to confuse Christians about so that they misunderstand God’s love for them.
General Info Inquiry: contact@overflowmag.com
Our cover story this month features Chris and Bernadette Pello of Bay Life Academy. This couple shares the vision God gave them to serve children with special needs. Check out this inspiring article on page 12.
Event Submission: If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the event name, date(s), time(s), location(s), & a short description of the event to: events@overflowmag.com
We want to hear from you! Our new website allows you to comment and give us feedback on your favorite articles. Check it out and let us know what you think. Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads and to our Loving Father God! With Love in Jesus,
Amie Cherp
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Advertising and Distribution: If you are a business or church and think advertising to over 35,000 Christians is awesome, please contact: Chris Cherp | chris@overflowmag.com Overflow Magazine is published monthly by Eternal Holdings LLC, a Florida limited liability company, d/b/a Overflow Magazine. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any form without prior written permission from a representative of Overflow Magazine. We cannot be held responsible for statements made by advertisers or contributing writers; however, we do make every effort to ensure the accuracy and truthfulness of the information we print. Overflow Magazine cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors made by advertisers and/or contributing writers. All images, written work, photographs, e-mails and letters sent to Overflow Magazine will be allocated for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted rights to edit. Overflow Magazine is distributed free of charge to local supermarkets, churches, businesses, family events and other locations around the Tampa Bay area. For information on where to find Overflow Magazine or if you would like to become a distributor, please call 813-915-6700 or e-mail contact@ overflowmag.com.
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MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!
Psalm 50:15 (NKJV) “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”
SPREAD THE LOVE OF JESUS
SUBMIT YOURS! Do you have a God Story? Be an inspiration to your community by going to OverflowMag.com and submitting what God has done in your life!
On my lunch break, I went to a store to pick up a couple of things. I had to be back to work at 2:00pm. It was about 1:50pm when I left the store. I was driving back to work when I saw a man and woman walking in the opposite direction on the other side of the road. They were carrying grocery bags and a small suitcase which probably had groceries in it too. As I drove by them, the Lord tugged on my heart. So, I hurried back to work which is just up the street. I ran in and asked my boss if I could have an extra 10-15 minutes on my lunch break. She said, "No problem." Then, I went back to pick them up. I pulled off to the side of the road and asked them if they would like a ride. They said, “Yes.” The woman said that she was a little leery to get into my car. I assured her that it was fine and told her that I was led to turn around and pick them up. They had recently moved in the area and said that no one has ever stopped to offer them a ride. The woman shared that they have walked on the side of the road with their daughter that's in a wheelchair and people would go by and honk, but no one would ever stop to help them. They have two daughters. The one that is in the wheelchair is 11 years old and their other daughter is 7 years old. I told them when I see them again I would
BEING MORE LIKE MARY One day I had a dentist appointment and a long list of errands to run. While driving around, I was listening to a lesson on CD. The pastor was teaching on spending more time at Jesus’ feet, instead of rushing around all of the time trying to get everything checked off your "To Do" list. I reflected on Luke 10:38-42, which talks about how Mary sat at Jesus’ feet soaking in His Word, while Martha rushed around frustrated trying to complete her tasks. I started to realize that I had been a lot like Martha lately: I would spend a little time in His Word, but would then rush around being distracted with many things. In that moment, I made a decision to stop and rest at Jesus’ feet. I rested in His Word. Shortly after, I received a phone call from a friend. She called to tell me that the Lord had led her to make dinner for me and my family that evening. That was one of the things on my "To Do" List! When I just spent more time with Jesus, He helped me to take care of what I needed to do. Praise Jesus! >>>AC, Wesley Chapel
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be more than happy to stop and help them out. They were very thankful. I also had the opportunity to invite them to church. When God tugs on your heart, as He did with me, stop and give a helping hand. You will be greatly rewarded. We don’t know what impact we may have on someone else's life. I shared this to help encourage people to demonstrate the love of Jesus to others. It will greatly bless them, and you will be blessed knowing that you can spread the love of Jesus wherever you are. Let's show the love of Jesus to others. As my pastor says, "Be Jesus with skin on." I love this statement. Let's be that shining light to this lost world we live in >>>SS, Tampa
Ideas to Make a Special
Father's Day
T
hroughout the year, dads lead and guide their families with love. They take the extra time to teach their children how to be the best they can be, how to throw a baseball and be a good sport, how to love unconditionally, and most importantly, how to have a relationship with our Father God. Even as their children grow into adults, dads
still care; they offer great advice and words of wisdom. Father's Day is a wonderful time to honor Dad and show him just how much you appreciate him. Instead of the usual tie or coffee cup, try surprising Dad this year with something different. Some of the best gifts we can give are our time and love.
TAKE DAD SOMEWHERE FUN!
Here are some ideas that can make this Father's Day a day to remember:
Dinosaur World
Lowry Park Zoo
The Florida Aquarium
Tropicana Field
Tampa Bay History Center
MOSI
5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, 33565 813-717-9865 www.dinosaurworld.com Open 9am-6pm FREE for Dad (with a paid admission) Sun.
701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, 33602 813-273-4000 www.flaquarium.org Open 9:30am-5pm FREE for Dad (with a paid admission) Sat. & Sun.
Sports in Tampa Exhibit 801 Old Water Street, Tampa, 33602 813-228-0097 www.tampabayhistorycenter.org Open 10am-5pm FREE for Dad Sat. & Sun.
1101 W. Sligh Avenue, Tampa, 33604 813-935-9486 www.lowryparkzoo.com Open 9:30am-5pm FREE for Dad (with a paid admission) Sat. & Sun.
Tampa Bay Rays vs. Florida Marlins 1 Tropicana Drive, St. Pete, 33705 tampabay.rays.mlb.com Sat., 7:10pm & Sun., 1:40pm Tickets starting at $12
SMALL IDEAS THAT WILL MAKE DAD SMILE!
1. Take your Dad to do something he enjoys like fishing, golfing, or bowling. 2. Make him breakfast in bed and wait on him hand and foot. 3. Take your Dad out for his favorite dinner. 4. Wash his car.
Rocketing with Dad Build chemically-powered rockets from scratch! 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, 33617 813-987-6000 www.mosi.org Sat., 9am-12pm $35 for Dad and child
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June 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
CONTRIBUTOR
Soul Shutters >>> BY KERRY JOHNSON
“That’s really red.” My older son frowned as he watched the Doppler on the TV. Yes…really red. I was frowning too. My eyes were fixed on the reddish-orange blob center-screen, which unfortunately was moving directly over our city. Severe weather warnings flashed across the bottom of the TV while powerful rain-filled wind gusts pelted our windows. My phone chimed every few minutes with new tornado warnings. The west coast of Florida was getting pummeled.
Aluminum slats, polyethylene screen, polycarbonate, accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, Bahama shutters, storm panels, and impact glazing are some of the products used to keep dangerous elements outside and protect valuables inside. Homeowners are serious about protecting the physical investment of their money – their house.
The slow, steady movement of the red and orange blob spreading haphazardly across Tampa Bay was a reminder of my hubby’s side-business of engineering hurricane shutters. As hurricane season approaches, nervous homeowners – usually those along either coast of Florida – decide this might be the summer a Charley or an Ivan could hit our state, and they take precautionary measures.
Taking care of our earthly house, our physical body, is certainly important, too. Common sense in our daily life, being safe in our choice of activities and actions, exercising, and a balanced diet all come to mind.
When I see the shutter projects spread out across my husband’s workspace, strange words and colorful plans jump out. The formulas, wind-born debris regions, engineering drawings, and installation instructions make my head spin faster than a category 3 storm. I marvel at the detailed work involved and the lengths that homeowners will go to ensure the safety of their homes from the threat of a hurricane.
What about our heart and soul? What measures do we take to protect the valuables inside us, our “inner man” (Ephesians 3:16, 2 Corinthians 4:16)? God-shaped and designed to be filled only by our Creator, our heart and soul are easily influenced and can be damaged by the storms of this world. When we’re saved by faith in Jesus Christ, our heart and soul are home to God’s Holy Spirit. They are the very place God transforms our sinful selves into the image of His perfect Son, through active faith and humble obedience to Him and His Word.
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Our heart and soul need protective shutters even more than Florida homes need hurricane shutters. Only the strongest, most durable, and well-tested material will protect our “inner man” for Jesus. Polycarbonate wouldn’t cut it and roll-down shutters would be ineffective. Instead, God’s Word tells us to “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11, NKJV). Ephesians 6:13-18 contains just the right material for soul shutters. It says: Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:13-18, NKJV) God’s Word always provides perfect instructions and the best materials for faith-building and soul-protecting. Best of all, these heavenly soul shutters are stamped with the Master Engineer’s seal of approval.
FEATURED
MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT
Fulfilling a Special Need >>>BY AMANDA WRIGHT
P
astor Chris and Bernadette Pello, founders of Bay Life Academy (BLA), were called to do God’s work and fulfill an extraordinary need in the Tampa Bay area. This special couple stepped out in faith to follow that call over eight years ago. They have seen the Lord show up in mighty ways to expand the vision He laid in Chris’ heart. The Pellos sought to educate students with learning disabilities and special needs, but God has done so much more than that. The BLA staff, students, and families continue to be blessed beyond what the education provides. The Holy Spirit freely roams the halls and touches the lives of many through the work done at BLA.
A VISION
Bernadette handled all of the business administration duties for the school, while Chris concentrated on the specifics of education. The following year Chris was asked to join the staff of Bay Life Church as the pastor of adult ministries. God's hand was apparent in the plans for this school when the Pellos learned that Chris' offer included bringing the school with them. Bay Life Church had plenty of classroom space available, so in August 2004 Brandon Prep moved to the church’s campus and the school’s name changed to Bay Life Academy. Bernadette took over running the school as its director.
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
The Pellos moved from New York to Florida 16 years ago with Bernadette's job as a business executive. Chris was a high school basketball coach and athletic director in New York. After the move, he was blessed with a position at Tampa Bay Christian School in Brandon as the basketball and PE coach. Both Bernadette’s boss at the time and the gentleman who hired Chris prayed for their salvation. The Pellos were raised Catholic and had a good understanding of who Jesus was, but admitted to not having a personal relationship with Christ. However, they grew to understand the importance of faith as a personal journey and each of them accepted Christ as their Savior. Shortly after, Chris was promoted to principal of the school. "God just fast-tracked me. He was preparing us," Chris said.
Chris served as the principal and as an associate pastor for five years. "We were the only school at the time that had any type of program for kids with special needs. We could only take six kids a year," Chris explained. This meant that the school had to turn away around 30-40 families every year. The school did not have the capacity to accommodate that many children with special needs. It burdened Chris to see these families leave with nowhere to take their children. Then God put a vision in his heart. "We just really felt like the Lord called us to start a school for special needs kids," Chris said. He kept a list of every family that the school had to turn away, and he reached out to them.
BAY LIFE ACADEMY In 2003 the Pellos rented a space from a church on Bloomingdale Avenue and opened Brandon Prep with just 35 students.
The school grew over the next three years. "We maximized our capacity [at the church’s campus] and were turning families away," Chris said. God opened yet another door when a building in Seffner became available. It was formerly a church, and the owners wanted the building to be used for ministry purposes. Bernadette did a video presentation for them about the school. The church board overwhelmingly approved the sale, and Bay Life Church was set to purchase the building. The Bay Life congregation raised the money to buy and renovate the building for the academy’s use. In August 2007, BLA moved from the Bay Life Church campus to the newly renovated, 8000ft2 building in Seffner, where they are still located. In just four short years, this campus is at maximum capacity with over 100 students. Chris explained that with God's help they are fulfilling a tremendous need in the community and want to continue where God leads them. "About 13-14% of all Hillsborough County school students have some type of learning disability," Chris estimated. Most private and public schools cannot accommodate all of the children with special needs and learning disabilities in the Bay area. Consequently,
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June 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
there are many students with special needs that may not be reached at the needed level. The Pellos wish to provide a higher level of attention to as many of these children as possible. They strongly feel that all of God's children should be able to find help and acceptance somewhere.
State Education Funds Reduced
With education budget cuts coming for the 2011-2012 school year, student funding could potentially be reduced up to 8%. The cut is across the board and includes McKay Scholarship dollars. Ultimately, this will affect BLA’s budget as well. The school is looking into fundraising opportunities to maintain their superior standard of services provided to their students with special needs.
God led them to leap out in faith once again and they will be opening a second campus in Riverview called Livingstone Academy (beginning in August 2011). The academy will be renting classroom space from South Bay Church to accommodate up to 60 children. "Our prayer is that by August 2013, we will build our own facility in Riverview, thereby enabling us to continue to reach the ever-increasing educational needs of that community" (www.baylifeacademy.org). The couple is open to further expansion in the Tampa Bay area if and when God calls.
MEETING A NEED "Bay Life Academy is an independent, non-profit, private Christian School that specializes in ministering to the unique needs of children with learning disabilities and their families" (www.baylifeacademy.org). The school serves children in kindergarten through eighth grade with varying degrees of need. "It's a huge range," Bernadette explained, which includes students with “specific learning disabilities, Autism, Asperger’s, speech and language disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional/social disorders, and cognitive and/or developmental delays.” Bernadette said, "We take kids where they are and we try to come up with an individual plan that will help them be the best they can be." The goal of BLA is to provide an environment where the children feel loved, accepted, and encouraged. "They're in a safe place where they can thrive," Chris said. The philosophy of BLA is to challenge the students in the areas that they are strongest and guide them in the areas they need the most help. The students are tested upon arrival to the school and their Individual Education Plan (IEP) is reviewed to determine their personal plan. A large part of that is placing the students in classes that they best fit into academically, not necessarily by age or grade level. "All of our kids need something different," Bernadette explained. The students spend a majority of their time focusing on the core subjects of reading, writing, and math, which are all taught in small groups. Other classes, such as science, history, art, and
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music, are taught classroom style with a range of students from different grade and academic levels. The teacher assigns different projects based on the child's ability. In addition to academics, the children attend chapel every week and some of the students do a Bible devotion each day. The chapel services are held by one of the pastors of Bay Life Church. Bernadette shared that each month one of the administrators gives the students a character trait with a supporting Scripture. Activities and lessons are based around the character trait and the staff and students encourage one another when they see someone displaying that month's trait. It's an interactive way to incorporate godly character into the students’ everyday routine. In addition to the deliberate incorporation of Christ into school life, the staff demonstrates a godly love when working with the students and their families. "The families really see the willingness of the staff to go above and beyond, whether it is [helping with] meals for families or uniforms, or [paying the way for students if they] can't go on the field trip,” Bernadette said. “I have never had somebody from here not offer to step up and fulfill a need.” The staff understand the difficulties that can come with raising a child with special needs, and they have even offered to take students for a weekend so that the parents can take a break. Chris commented, "The love of Christ flows from the teachers and staff. We know our teachers are praying for our kids. They're kind, gentle, and patient, so the fruits of the Spirit are evident" (see Galatians 5:22).
GETTING TO THE RIGHT PLACE How does a child get into Bay Life Academy? The process begins in the public school system. If a child does not already have an IEP, a parent can simply speak with their school's administrator about getting their child tested. "A lot of parents know right away if their child is really struggling," Chris said. Once the school gives the student an IEP, the child is eligible for the John M. McKay Scholarship, which a lot of parents are unaware of. Bernadette explained that some public schools do have programs for students with special needs; however, the school your child is zoned for may not be able to provide for their specific needs. There is a law in effect that gives parents with a special needs child the ability to choose the public school their child will attend
shared. With time, the children learn that the academy is a safe place where they are loved and accepted. This helps to build the students’ self-esteem, and they blossom in an environment where they can be themselves.
and transportation will be provided, or the parents may use the funds the state has allocated for their child’s education and send them to a qualifying private school of their choice. To learn more about the McKay Scholarships and how to apply, visit www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2010/1002.39 and www.floridaschoolchoice.org. The Pellos explained that the McKay Scholarships are based on each child’s individual need (which is learned from their IEP). If a child has greater needs, the scholarship will be larger. For these parents, the excess funds beyond tuition costs can be used towards various extras, such as one-on-one aids, extra tutoring, or speech therapy. “Every penny that comes in for the scholarship program is allocated to that child’s individual needs. Sometimes the scholarship doesn’t quite meet the need, so we honor that … and provide those services,” Bernadette explained. Most scholarships cover the cost of tuition at BLA with the minor exception of the first level of need. Parents may have to supplement the scholarship in order to pay the tuition. However, if a family isn't able to pay the difference and the academy feels that they can help the student, they will try to provide the family with alternatives. These parents could potentially help the school by volunteering and lending a hand in fundraising efforts. “The bottom line is that God provides all of our needs,” Chris said. “If we can help, we will try,” Bernadette added.
BLA’s SUCCESS The Pellos’ prayer is that the children who come through the academy not only succeed in the area of academics to the best of their ability, but also excel spiritually, socially, and behaviorally. Bernadette shared the story of a young boy that had been bullied in his previous school because of his differences. His anxiety was so severe that he got sick every day on the way to school. She would go out to meet him every morning and coax him inside the school, then inside the office, and eventually into the classroom. “Now he is just thriving,” Bernadette said. Chris spoke of a special young lady with Down syndrome that touched his heart. She started at the school when it opened. She was very shy and couldn’t even put a pencil in her hand. Her mother’s prayer was that she would learn to write her name. Last year, she participated in the school’s annual talent show by singing a solo. It was amazing to see how far she had come. “I was one of the judges and I was sitting there with tears running down my face,” Chris
Chris and Bernadette feel blessed to have seen the success of their students on all levels. They also have joy knowing that a number of students have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior while attending BLA. “Kids that came in two or three years academically behind, to see them get caught up, be baptized, join a local church, go on to high school, and graduate high school - it’s just an unbelievable feeling,” Chris said. One of the greatest rewards the Pellos experience in running the academy is to visit with students who have moved into high school. To witness these young people excelling and pushing past their disabilities even outside BLA makes all of their efforts worthwhile. BLA’s caring nature doesn’t end at eighth grade graduation. “This year we have really taken a more direct approach to help families get to the right [high] school. We’ve gone on tours with families to potential schools,” Bernadette explained. “We research the different private schools in the area,” Chris added. They want the parents to know their options, including what schools have the right programs for their children. Chris said, “We want to make sure they get help transitioning the best way [possible].”
How You Can Help • • • • •
Prayer Send a tax-deductible financial contribution Donate school maintenance supplies (mulch, paint, etc.) Volunteer (fundraising efforts, painting, yard work, etc.) Contact the school for more ways to help
REFRESHED IN CHRIST Ministry leaders understand the hardships of running a non-profit. The Pellos continually stay focused on God and look to Him to provide their every need and the needs of their students. How do they stay refreshed in the mission that God gave them? Chris answered, “He is the center of our lives. Without Christ we are nothing.” He spoke of Bernadette’s favorite Scriptures in John 15 and said, “The key is to remain in Him.” John 15:5 (NKJV) says, “…He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” The Pellos also focus on spending time in prayer, meeting with their life group, and being in the Word. “Fortunately I am a pastor at Bay Life Church, so if I get caught reading the Bible at work, we’re okay,” Chris said with a smile.
For More Info www.BayLifeAcademy.org 813-490-7295 1204 S. Lenna Avenue Seffner, FL 33584 Livingstone Academy Meeting at South Bay Church 13498 US Highway 301 S Riverview, FL 33578
Other Scriptures they take comfort in are found in Judges 6, which is the story of Gideon. An angel of the Lord was sent to tell Gideon that he was chosen to deliver God’s people out of the hands of the Midianites. Gideon did not believe he was worthy of such a task, but the angel of the Lord assured him that God was with him and would help him defeat the Midianites. “That has brought such peace to me in the last 12 years of full-time ministry. God said, ‘I sent you; go in [with] what you have and I will do the rest,’” Chris said. The Pellos have been inspired knowing that the Lord has equipped them to run the academy and to love and encourage people on a daily basis. Glory!
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June 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
SALVATION
It is Finished! J
esus received the judgment for all of our sins (past, present, and future) on the cross. He physically bore them in His body. He felt the pain and anguish of the punishment of sin for ALL mankind while He was hanging on that tree. Jesus did this for all of us so we could have a personal relationship with God. Jesus didn't hang on that cross and say, "I am here to pay the price for murderers, thieves, and adulterers only." No, He experienced agony and separation from God for all mankind, so we could be reunited with the Father. No matter what your sin is, it doesn't matter because Jesus has paid the price. He does not care about your past; He wants your future. Jesus' blood washed away every sin we have ever committed or will commit. Jesus' last words before He died were, "It is finished" (John 19:30, NKJV). The plan for your salvation was completed through Jesus' death and resurrection. God made a way for you and He wants to welcome you into His Kingdom. Jesus lives inside the heart of every believer. Will you leave your sins on that tree and accept Jesus into your heart?
Say this prayer aloud: Father God, I come before You in the Name of Jesus. Your Word says that “whoever calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21, NKJV) and “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9, NKJV). Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me. It is because of Your love that You don't want me to be condemned and punished for my sins. Thank You for sending Your beloved Son, Jesus, to die for me on the cross. Jesus took my sins, penalties, and all my curses and in return gave me His blessing, righteousness, and favor. He got what I deserved so I can receive what He deserves - all good things! Jesus' blood washes me clean from every sin (past, present, and future). On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead and conquered death. Father, I thank You that when You look at me, You choose to no longer remember my sins and that You see me in all the beauty and righteousness of Jesus. Holy Spirit, fill me to overflowing and lead me through this life - thank You, Father. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." 1 Peter 2:24 (NIV)
RESOURCES FOR YOUR SPIRIT
Ephesians 1:17 (NKJV) LISTEN
“…may [God] give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him."
READ
Restful Increase for Dads By: Joseph Prince
“If there is anyone who knows how important a father is, it’s God. And as our heavenly Father, He understands fatherhood first hand! Dads, your Abba Father knows how this hugely significant role is not always easy—you being the breadwinners and priests of your homes, lovers and protectors of your wives, and the first representation of God to your children. As you quietly and faithfully shoulder these responsibilities, allow the images and words in this book to carry you into the strong embrace of your heavenly Father. Get nourished, get pumped up—and experience His restful increase!”
ABANDON
Control www.AbandonRock.com
Find it at: www.JosephPrinceOnline.com BROWSE
AllProDad.com Jonny Diaz
Jonny Diaz www.JonnyDiaz.com
Advice. Events. Family
“All Pro Dad is Family First's innovative program helping men to become better fathers. All Pro Dad has 53 NFL spokesmen, multiple events with NFL teams, almost 1,000 All Pro Dad's Day chapters, and Play of the Day daily emails that reach over 60,000 fathers each day.” This website offers free resources including articles, videos, and photos to encourage dads on a daily basis. You can sign up today for your daily Play of the Day!
Find it at: www.AllProDad.com
Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You www.RSJames.com
WATCH
The Chronicles of Narnia The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Twentieth Century Fox & Walden Media, LLC / approx. 113 minutes (Rated PG) / Dove Family–Approved (ages 12 and over)
Seventh Day Slumber Take Everything
www.SeventhDaySlumber.com
The third chronicle of Narnia is a great family movie. "When Lucy and Edmund Pevensie, along with their cousin Eustace, are swallowed into a painting and transported back to Narnia, they join King Caspian and a noble mouse named Reepicheep aboard the magnificent ship The Dawn Treader. The courageous voyagers travel to mysterious islands, confront mystical creatures, and reunite with the great lion Aslan on a mission that will determine the fate of Narnia itself!"
Find it at: www.Narnia.com
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June 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
WHAT THE ENEMY DOESN'T WANT YOU TO KNOW BY CHRIS CHERP
JOHN 10:10 (NKJV) “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
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s a boy I crossed paths with poison ivy more times than I would like to remember. One time in particular my family was on vacation in Florida during the summer. I was covered from head to toe in calamine lotion and instructed not to scratch myself, unless I wanted it to spread even more. I can remember standing in the hot shade at a rest stop off of I-75, crying, while everyone else was eating lunch. I was thinking, “All I want to do is scratch my body.” My understanding at the time, and for many years after, was that if I scratched the inflamed areas (even though I came in contact with the poison ivy a few days prior) it would spread all over my body. The reasoning behind this was due to the erroneous belief that the inflamed areas were contagious. As a young adult, I gained the knowledge that poison ivy only infects the areas of the skin where the plant’s oil comes in contact. Once the oils are cleaned off
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the body and the clothing, the chances for spreading are eliminated. When I first learned this I had mixed emotions. I was happy that I had this amazing truth but sad that no one had ever shared this information with me. These feelings I experienced were very similar to the feelings I had when I first learned that God is not angry with me when I mess up and sin. I was glad that I learned this truth but I was left wondering why no one had ever shared this with me before. According to the Bible my Father in Heaven will never be angry with me (Isaiah 54:9-10), never curse me (Galatians 3:13), never leave me (Hebrews 13:5), never humble me through poverty (2 Corinthians 8:9), never teach me by giving me a disease (John 14:26; Luke 6:19; Isaiah 53:4-5; 1 Peter 2:24) and best of all, never leave me responsible for my sins (Colossians 1:13-14). That’s right, my big brother Jesus took care of all of this for me at the Cross, as well
as for everyone who has made Him their Lord and Savior. We are under the New Covenant through Jesus Christ! With this understanding, I know God is happy with me, has blessed me, is always with me, has given me life more abundantly, has healed me by Jesus’ stripes, and
Until a few years ago I never truly understood the complete entitlement believers receive when we make Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Looking back I sometimes would allow the devil to trick me into thinking that God was mad at me for something I had done. This was my explanation as to why bad things happened. However, God is not angry with us when we
“…NEVER blame God. Don’t ever think that He will teach you, or any of His children, a lesson for a past wrong through stealing, killing, or destroying.” has redeemed me through Jesus’ blood (forgiven all of my sins). All these benefits are ours because of the perfect completed work of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:14-15). Is God happy with me or is He mad? Is He going to bless me today or teach me a lesson through an accident because I did something wrong? These are examples of the unconscious battle a lot of Christians have concerning their relationship with God. It stems from a mixture of Old Covenant and New Covenant believing (Mark 2:22; Galatians 2:16). In the Old Covenant we learn that in order to be blessed by God, we need to keep His Commandments and do, do, do. When we fail to keep the Commandments, and sin, we fall under the curse. However, in the New Covenant we learn that Jesus paid the full price for us at the Cross, and it is done, done, done (Hebrews 10:12-14; John 19:30)! Hallelujah! Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant and received judgment for all of our sins at the Cross so we will never have to. "For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:21, NLT). Let me ask you something: if I were to pay off your mortgage, would you send a check to the bank next month for your mortgage payment? No, that would be silly. Your debt to the bank would already be fulfilled and you would no longer have to pay for it. The same is true with the Law (the Old Covenant). In 2 Corinthians 5:21 and 1 Peter 1:18-19, we find that Jesus became the perfect sin offering for us thus redeeming us from the curse of the Law (also see Galatians 3:13). When this happened over 2,000 years ago, God created a way for us to be in right standing with Him through Jesus, if we make Jesus the Lord of our lives. That’s great news! God knew we would not be able to fulfill the Law, which is why He sent Jesus Christ. With this knowledge, there is no question our Father God loves us (1 John 4:9).
make mistakes nor will He ever be again (Isaiah 54:9)! He sees us holy, once and for all through the perfection of the Cross (Hebrews 10:10). Back when I was allowing the devil to trick me, I can remember receiving a phone call informing me that two A/C units got stolen from one of my rental properties. The minute I learned about the theft I said to myself, “Where did I screw up to deserve this from God?” I beat myself up over this for some time until two things happened. First, someone very close to me said, “Stop what you’re saying and NEVER blame God. Don’t ever think that He will teach you, or any of His children, a lesson for a past wrong through stealing, killing, or destroying.” Shortly after that, the Lord led me to a Scripture: "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10, NKJV). It was then that I realized I had believed a lie for most of my life, and it was time to be out with Old Covenant believing and in with New Covenant believing. This decision revolutionized my life and relationship with my Father God. My friend, if anyone ever tries to sell you the lie of the enemy that our Father God is angry with you, going to curse you, leave you, humble you with poverty, teach you a lesson by giving you a disease, or punish you for your sins - stop listening and run. These are lies the devil wants every Christian to believe so that we become powerless. Remember we, as Christians, are under the new and improved Covenant of Grace. God loves us so much that He gave His beloved Son to be a sacrifice so we can be a part of His Royal Family (Ephesians 1:5). God sees all His children through Jesus Christ, our Savior who is perfect in every way. As we celebrate Fathers’ Day, remember that our Father God loves us more than we can imagine. He has great things in store for us and is the best Father ever, just receive His love (Matthew 7:11). Glory!
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June 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
HEALTHY LIFE
Never Satisfied?
H “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 (NKJV)
ave you ever had a craving for something but nothing seemed to satisfy that craving? I recently had one where I was wandering through the kitchen looking in all the pantries and cupboards for that special something. An hour later I heard someone talking on a Christian television program about our spiritual appetite. That's when I realized what I was really searching for—spiritual food. I went and opened one of my Bibles and began to satisfy the mysterious craving I had been trying to please for what seemed like hours. It worked! Shortly after reading the Word of God, I felt satisfied and was able to move on with my day. Unfortunately, I ate most of the food in the house before I realized what I was craving, but I'll know next time. We are spirits wearing a flesh suit. We feed our fleshly body anywhere from one to seven times a day depending on our lifestyle, but how often do we feed our spirit? After receiving this revelation, I decided to try my best to feed my spirit at least one verse of Scripture every time I feed my body. I knew this wouldn't be possible all the time, but at least I would begin to better nourish my spirit.
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So how can one attempt to do something like this? Start by placing a Bible in every room of your house, as well as in your vehicle. This way even if you are going to a restaurant, you can bite off a Scripture before you go in to eat and chew on it while you are dining. Try to remember that we are spirits and that God desires us to be led by His Holy Spirit. "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God (Romans 8:14, NKJV)." When we recognize that small faint voice in our inner man and listen to His leading, we will avoid yielding to the fleshly desires that come on us from time to time. Galatians 5:16 (NKJV) says, "I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." Next time you find yourself craving something and you have no idea what will satisfy it, try feeding on the Word of God. It doesn't have to be the Bible; it could be a teaching CD, a Christian program, or even a favorite Scripture written out on a note card. I know one thing though: it will surely satisfy! Enjoy writing? Need a platform to share what God has put on your heart? Then we want to hear from you! If you would like to submit an original article to potentially be printed in the magazine, then send it to: contact@overflowmag.com.
Like Father, Like Son >>> BY TOMMY BURRUS
“All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.” Matthew 11:27 (NKJV)
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any have a view that, if God exists, He must be very distant and aloof. This is not based on the Bible because it gives such a different revelation of God. In both the Old and New Testaments, we find God mentioned as our Father. Jesus' ministry paints a clear picture of our Heavenly Father. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus mentions the Father seventeen times; that is more than twice as often as the entire Old Testament! Even when He taught His followers to pray, Jesus taught them to address God as "Our Father" (Matthew 6:9). The natural and personal way that Jesus related to His Father was unique. Of course, no other person on earth had been with the Father as Jesus had. Jesus even said, "Everything has been entrusted to Me by My Father. Only the Father knows the Son, and the Father is known only by the Son and by those to whom the Son reveals Him" (Matthew 11:27, TLB). What Jesus was saying is that we can know the Father by knowing His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way we come into relationship with God. He said in John 14:6 (KJV), " I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the
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Father, but by me." The only means of salvation, and thus of coming to the Father is by faith in Jesus and His death and Resurrection. Beyond that, we learn who the Father is by the life of Jesus. He introduces us to the Father and reveals who the Father is. In John 14, Jesus was in the Upper Room with His disciples preparing them for His crucifixion and death. After explaining that He is the way to the Father, He tells them that if they have known Him, they have also known the Father. They have seen the Father by seeing Jesus. Philip speaks up in a moment of excitement and says, "Lord, show us the Father and we will be satisfied" (John 14:8, NLT). Jesus responded to Philip by saying, "He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, 'Show us the Father'?" (John 14:9, NKJV). That is literal in that Jesus is the physical manifestation of the Trinity. He is the embodiment of God. He is Immanuel, "God with us." Hebrews 1:3 (KJV) speaks of Jesus as "the brightness of [God's] glory, and the express image of His person." Colossians 2:9 (NKJV) says, "For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily."
Jesus is God incarnate, fully God. But we see the nature and character of our Father in Jesus as well. The Father, Son, and Spirit are connected in their essence and passion. In that Upper Room, Jesus explained that His words and His works are from the Father (John 14:10-11). Jesus said that He never did anything unless it was directed by His Father, and Jesus always did what pleased the Father (John 8:28-29). By the life of Jesus, we can know the very heart of God. God loves us. He cares about the troubles that we face. He cares for the outcasts and will go out of His way to reach them. He is personal and approachable. He is holy and righteous. We can see how God reaches out to us through how Jesus reached out to others. We may be up a tree like Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) when God seeks us out, or we may find ourselves socially isolated because of our sin like the woman at the well (John 4:1-29). He may catch us in a time of grief like He did the widow of Nain (Luke 7:11-16) and the family of Lazarus (John 11:1-45), or it may be in the joyful festivities of a wedding or a party that God reveals Himself to us. He has the heart of a shepherd who seeks to gather the wandering sheep. He marvels at us when we show great faith (Matthew 8:10) and when we don't (Mark 6:6). He has compassion for us. In fact, the Bible declares Him to be the God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3). We matter to Him. His love for us is something that puzzles the angels (Hebrews 2:5-6 & 1 Peter 1:12). That is not to say that God is easy to fully comprehend. If we ever think that we understand all there is to know about God, we have fooled ourselves. In fact, in Isaiah 55:8-9 (KJV) God says, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." We'll spend a lifetime and then all of eternity getting to know God and learning about Him, but, through Jesus, we can begin to understand who the Father is and wants to be to us. Just as the Rosetta Stone became a key to understanding Egyptian hieroglyphics, Jesus is the key to unlocking the mystery of our Father. Glory! Tommy Burrus has been the pastor of the First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church (www.thonotosassabaptist.org) since September of 1993. He and his wife, Nancy, have been married for 18 years and have two daughters.
MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!
A FATHER'S HEART Submitted by Sola Adewunmi
Staying in Nigeria was no longer an option due to the social, political, and economic issues in the country. There was no way I could stay. I could not make a living and provide for my children without compromising my values and losing my soul. As I walked through the door, I heard the heart wrenching cry of my 8 year old daughter, Boluwatito (Tito). I had never heard her cry out like that before, so I retraced my steps back into the house. She had her face buried in the sofa weeping profusely because an elderly family member just told her that her father was leaving the country and she would never see him again! I knelt down beside her and made a solemn promise: “Yes, daddy is going away, but you will see me again. I am coming back for you, your brother, and your sister.” Fighting back my own tears so that she would not be more upset, I walked into the dark humid night. It was February 6, 1999. I left behind my three children. Tito was just developing a loving daddy/daughter relationship with me. Mosinmiloluwa
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(Sinmi) was just about to turn 4 years old; she knew I was daddy but was yet to experience those forever memories with me. Oluwaperosayemi (Pero), my boy, was barely 9 months old and did not have a clue of who I was. I had my travel documents to the United States, but I only had enough money for a ticket to London. I left Nigeria with $100 in my pocket and no idea on how to get to the U.S. I was in London for 6 months trying to earn enough money to buy a ticket to the U.S. Before I spent a penny of what I earned, I sent my children money for their upkeep. Some of my friends advised me (with good intention) to “sort myself out first.” They could not understand why I was scraping together every penny and sending it back to Nigeria when I was yet to be established.
They did not understand that every waking moment in my mind I heard the echo of Tito’s wailing voice, I saw Sinmi’s confused face, and I could not get rid of Pero’s innocent gaze! Everywhere I went my children’s pictures were in my wallet, but most of the time, I did not have the courage to look at their smiling faces. Many times, when I saw children their age, my eyes welled up with tears. While in London, a friend invited me to attend his church. I was introduced to his pastor who offered me a place to
Then, amazingly, my children got another appointment for less than a month later. Finally, Tito received the call from the Consulate to pick up their visas. On Friday, January 29, 2010, Tito (18), Sinmi (14), and Pero (11) landed at the Tampa International Airport to join their 2 brothers and 3 sisters. Thank you, Father God! I had not seen my children in almost 11 years, but I never gave up hope. God and His Word comforted me throughout the process (especially Isaiah 60 & Psalm 128). I just believed
“I would just visualize when they would get here. I couldn’t see anything other than that. I refused to see anything else.” stay in south Florida. Two years later, Cherlene and I met on our first day at work for a bank. We were married 9 months later. The biggest attraction was the mutual love for our children. Both of us came into the marriage with children from previous marriages. On countless occasions, my wife and I would go over the household budget to determine what could be paid and what bills could be deferred. Each time, the children’s school fees and monthly upkeep always came first after paying our tithes and offerings. And God remained faithful in our finances. In 2006 we moved to Tampa. The Lord made a way and we were able to file the immigration documents to bring Tito, Sinmi, and Pero to the United States. That was just the beginning of a new path in our journey that would take a few years. After the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services approved our application, the paperwork was sent to the U.S Consulate in Lagos, Nigeria. We were told all they had to do was show up at the Consulate because all the paperwork was done. The children arrived and the Consulate wanted a DNA test to prove that they were my children. This new requirement would force them to have to wait for another appointment date, which could take another year. This was heart wrenching.
God; I couldn’t believe otherwise. I believed my children were coming to the U.S. and we would be reunited; we would be a family. I would just visualize when they would get here. I couldn’t see anything other than that. I refused to see anything else. This journey of reuniting with Tito, Sinmi, and Pero has revealed to me the heart of God, the Father before fathers. I have learned that God’s heart breaks for restored relationships with His children. God is seeking and waiting to be reconciled with His children. He has done everything; He has given His Son Jesus Christ to restore His relationship with His children. Maybe you had a relationship with God before, but for some reason you were separated from Him. He is still seeking you. Maybe you know that God is there and you have a vague idea about Him, but you can’t touch Him or feel Him right now. He is still seeking you. And those who have just heard about God and don’t know whether He is real or not. God is real and He is the Heavenly Father who is seeking a relationship with you. His heart is searching for you; will you open your heart to His love?
They got another appointment set for a year later. However, when the children showed up at the Consulate they were told that their appointment was made in error because the paperwork was still being processed. We began calling and sending messages. We got our congresswoman involved, and the church we attend was praying. We didn’t hear anything for another year. The enemy tried to keep my family separated with over two years of various delays. To say that I was heartbroken on the days that my children were turned back without the visas would be an understatement. I was even more devastated at the disappointment that I heard in their voices (after they would leave the Consulate) as they told me, “They said, ‘No.’ Again.” The children’s next appointment at the Consulate was set for December 2009. They were asked again for more information. During this time, we were in concentrated prayer. My pastor cried, prayed, and fasted with us. The Victorious Life Church staff and congregation cried and prayed with us. We took our case to the Rock of Ages.
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June 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
HIGHLIGHT
THERE IS HOPE FOR THE FUTURE
>>> BY ROBERT E. LONG III
A “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16 (NRSV)
s a real-estate agent and mortgage broker for the past 15 years, I have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly in the real-estate market. Let’s reflect back to a few years ago when the market was booming and real estate was sky rocketing. Many people, including myself, were refinancing into adjustable rates, purchasing homes for the first time, and investing in the market through real estate. As I look back at that time, business was remarkable. I was able to open my family-owned mortgage and title company and do some really big investing – 15 properties to be exact. Then, it all came to a halt. The market crashed and lives were changed almost in an instant, including mine and my family’s. We were forced to make decisions that we didn’t want to make. At times, it literally came down to whether we should pay the electric bill or buy food this week. We had finally reached our breaking point. We lost everything that we had worked so hard for, and we defaulted on all of our properties, leaving our credit in ruins. Through it all I never gave up HOPE. I knew that God still had a plan for my life. So I continued to push through my circumstances. When I felt like giving up I would push even harder and trust God to get me through. By the grace of God, we were able to overcome these challenges with a sense of what's most important – God and family. As a result of all this adversity and change, God has given me the ability to reach out to property owners who may feel they are up against a wall facing foreclosure, needing to short sale, or just feeling that they have no choices and nowhere to turn. I am here to tell you there is HOPE, there is light, and there are options. But, most importantly, don’t give up and don’t give in. Where God’s will is, there is a way.
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God, as our strength and our provider, is saying to believers now more than ever to uplift one another and to be the people that God has intended us to be. That's what God has positioned us to do when He brought us out of our darkest moment. Now it's time to give back to others in crisis. “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Luke 6:38, NIV). Long & Associates of Tampa, LLC is here to help with any questions you may have regarding short selling your property or getting an attorney referral for legal advice. You can also call for a FREE credit report and REO Market Analysis. There is no obligation required; we are here to help. Check out our ad on page 2.
CONTACT INFO Please do not hesitate to call. Help and HOPE are just a phone call away.
Robert E. Long III 813-949-3033 Long & Associates of Tampa, LLC 21750 State Rd 54 Lutz, FL 33549
CLIENT TESTIMONY “Thank you again for your assistance in the sale of our house. I had approached other people prior to you regarding help and none were able to see a way out for us. You are a blessing and I am very thankful to God for having our paths cross. It still hasn't completely sunk in yet, but I know it will! Praise Jesus!”
MY ROCK SCRIPTURES I STAND ON
James 1:4 (NKJV) "But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." Patience is vital in the Christian life. I want to be more like Christ every day, so being more perfect and complete is my goal.
Have a favorite Scripture that you stand on? We are always looking for new people to share what God’s Word means to them. Let us know and we’ll photograph you! E-mail us at contact@overflowmag.com.
MY ROCK SCRIPTURES I STAND ON
Revelation 3:8 (NIV) “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.� When I was told that my department was going to be handled in another country, I remained calm and memorized this verse in my heart. The Lord has a plan for me and kept the door open. He knew what I truly wanted in my heart. Thankfully, I landed a job where my heart led me - helping other disabled people to find jobs!
EVENTS JUNE/JULY
JUNE 3
An Evening with Buddy Valastro: TLC's Cake Boss
Straz Center - Carol Morsani Hall 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa www.strazcenter.org *Tickets $29.25 7:30pm
3-30 Motherhood the Musical A Loving Look at the Blessings of Mom
Straz Center - Jaeb Theater 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa www.strazcenter.org *Tickets $39.50 7:30pm (Tues.-Thurs.), 8pm (Fri.), 2 & 8pm (Sat.), 2 & 7:30pm (Sun.)
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Trinity Homeschool Center Open House 2905 Smitter Rd., Tampa www.trinityhomeschoolcenter.com 813-690-2889 10am-12pm
6-30 Bradstreet Summer Sports Camp
Trinity Homeschool Center 2905 Smitter Rd., Tampa 813-690-2889 Pre-Register: www.BradstreetSports.com *One-Time Registration Fee: $35 9:30am-12:30pm ($65) - Ages 4 and up 7am-6pm ($99)
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YouNite @ The Shops at Wiregrass
28211 Paseo Dr., Ste.100, Wesley Chapel www.stjamestampa.org, 813-971-4790 *Live music, giveaways, Christian bands 6-8:30pm, FREE
10-11 6th Annual Girls Night Out
an Evening with Anita Renfroe & Mandisa
Friday: Victory Church 1401 Griffin Road, Lakeland Saturday: Countryside Christian Center 1850 N. McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater www.thejoyfm.com *Tickets $23 7pm
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The City Harmonic Concert
20-24 "Hometown Nazareth" Vacation Bible School
Northeast Presbyterian Church 4400 Shore Acres Blvd., St. Pete www.nepres.org 727-526-6083
CrossRoads Community UMC 26211 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel 813-907-5815 www.crossroadsum.com * Kindergarten-5th grade $25/child, $50 max/family 9am-12pm
*Tickets start at $15.50
7pm
13-17 Vacation Bible School
St. James United Methodist Church 16202 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa www.stjamestampa.org 813-971-4790
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Featuring Judy & Don Wright and Rob Taylor
*$30 (Register by May 9th)
Trinity Homeschool Center 2905 Smitter Rd., Tampa 813-690-2889 Pre-Register: www.BradstreetSports.com *One-Time Registration Fee: $35 9:30am-12:30pm ($65 per week) 7am-6pm ($99 per week) - Ages 4 and up
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YouNite @ The Shops at Wiregrass
28211 Paseo Dr., Ste.100, Wesley Chapel www.stjamestampa.org, 813-971-4790 *Live music, giveaways, Christian bands 6-8:30pm, FREE
5-8
Ballroom & Latin Dance Camp
Trinity Homeschool Center 2905 Smitter Rd., Tampa 813-690-2889 Reservation: svoth2@verizon.net *$40, 6yrs old and up 12pm-1pm
Tampa Palms Country Club 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa For reservations: 813-961-2810 or dayoung3@verizon.net 11am-1pm, $15
9am-12:30pm, K-5th grade
14-30 FREE Kid Shows at Cobb Grove16
6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel 813-948-5445 *Check out which movies are played each week at: www.CobbTheatres.com 10am (Tues., Wed., Thurs.)
22-26 Alegria Cirque Du Soleil
St. Pete Times Forum 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813-301-6600 www.cirquedusoleil.com Wed.-Thurs., 7:30pm, Fri. & Sat., 3:30pm & 7:30pm, Sun., 1pm & 5pm
16-18 Football Character Development Training Program Hosted by NFL H.S.P.D. & Tampa Catholic HS
4630 N. Rome Ave., Tampa For more info: 813-731-1096 or marshall@recruitersaidsports.com * Sponsored by the National Guard 9am-12pm, FREE
27-30 Chess Summer Camp
Trinity Homeschool Center 2905 Smitter Rd., Tampa 813-690-2889 Reservation: mike-cindy@earthlink.net *$125, 6yrs old and up 9am-12pm
17-18 Absolute Youth Conference 2011 with Evan Wickham, Ascend the Hill, Jimmy Needham, & Pedro Garcia
27- MEGA Sports Camp - Vacation Bible School July 2 Soccer - Baseball - Volleyball
Calvary Chapel St. Pete 8900 U.S. Hwy 19 N., Pinellas Park www.absoluteyouthconference.com 727-545-5777
Church of the Lakes 2530 Wilson Road, Land O' Lakes 813-948-4358 www.churchofthelakesepc.org *Pre-K through 6th grade $10 registration fee (includes t-shirt) 9am-11:30am
*Registration $45 (before 5/7), $50 (after 5/7)
9am-8pm (Fri.), 9am-1pm (Sat.)
If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the event name, date(s), time(s), location(s), & a short description of the event to:
JULY 1-29 Bradstreet Summer Sports Camp
5-8 & Chess Summer Camp Trinity Homeschool Center 11-14
2905 Smitter Rd., Tampa 813-690-2889 Reservation: mike-cindy@earthlink.net *$125, 6yrs old and up 9am-12pm
5-10 Motherhood the Musical
events@overflowmag.com
Deadlines are the 15th* of each month *Space is limited
WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT?
Run an ad with Overflow to promote your event and help spread the Word of God! Contact us for more info: 813.915.6700 or events@overflowmag.com
A Loving Look at the Blessings of Mom
Straz Center - Jaeb Theater 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa www.strazcenter.org *Tickets $39.50 7:30pm (Tues.-Thurs.), 8pm (Fri.), 2 & 8pm (Sat.), 2 & 7:30pm (Sun.)
5-28 FREE Kid Shows at Cobb Grove16
New Tampa Christian Women's Connection Luncheon
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6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel 813-948-5445 *Check out which movies are played each week at: www.CobbTheatres.com 10am (Tues., Wed., Thurs.)
Aaron Gillespie Concert
South Bay Church 13498 US Hwy 301 S., Riverview www.southbay.cc 727-526-6083 *Tickets $10 in advance, $12 at the door
7pm
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LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES Alafia Baptist Church
222 Alafia Baptist Church Rd. Lithia, 33547 813-634-8845 Sun., 9:45am, 11am, & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Anointed Word Church
1709 St. Joseph St. Tampa, 33607 813-254-5271 www.anointedwordchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm
Bay Covenant Fellowship 6813 US Hwy 301 S. Riverview, 33578 813-785-6032 www.baycovenant.com Sun., 10:30am & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Bell Shoals Baptist Church 2102 Bell Shoals Road Brandon, 33511 813-689-4229 www.bellshoals.com Sun., 9:15am & 11am Wed., 7pm
Branch of Christ Ministries 27223 State Road 56 Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-435-1469 Sun., 10am
Christ CP Church
19501 Holly Lane Lutz, 33548 813-909-9789 www.christchurchlutz.org Sun., 10:30am
Church of the Lakes
2530 Wilson Rd. Land O’ Lakes, 34638 813-948-4358 www.churchofthelakesepc.org Sun., 9:15am & 10:30am
Christian Family Church AMC Westshore Plaza 210 Westshore Plaza Tampa, 33609 813-802-8736 www.cfctampa.org Sun., 10:30am
Countryside Baptist Church
13422 Sydney Road Dover, 33527 813-571-8200 www.countrysidebaptistchurch.net Sun., 9:30am (Bible Study), 10:45am (Worship Service), & 6pm Wed., 7pm
CrossRoads Community United Methodist Church
First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church
Dwelling Place
Floodgates Community Church
26211 County Line Rd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-907-5815 www.crossroadsum.com Sun., 9am (Blended Worship) 10:30am (Contemporary Worship) 410 County Line Rd. W Lutz, 33548 813-949-1912 www.thedwellingplace.us Sun., 10:30am & 2pm (Spanish Service) Wed., 7pm
E_Life Chapel
3806 N. 12th St. Tampa, 33603 813-924-6553 www.elifechapel.com Sun., 10:30am
Epistle of Christ Ministries Ramada Inn 11714 Morris Bridge Rd. Tampa, 33617 813-785-4519 www.epistleofchrist.org Sun., 10am (except 1st Sun.), Mon., 7pm (after 1st Sun.)
Faith Life Church
4902 East Busch Blvd. Tampa, 33617 813-910-7336 www.flctampa.org Sun., 9am, 10:40am, Wed., 7pm Thurs., 7pm (Healing School)
Faith Family Worship Center
14514 Del Valle Road Tampa, 33625 (Citrus Park) 813-920-3685 www.ffwc.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
First Baptist of New Tampa 28125 County Line Rd. Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-907-1685 www.fbcnewtampa.org Sun., 9:15am, 10:30am, & 6pm
First Reformed Church of Tampa 8283 W. Hillsborough Ave. Tampa, 33615 813-886-6210 www.frctampa.org Sun., 9:30am (Contemporary), 11am (Traditional)
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10650 McIntosh Rd. Thonotosassa, 33592 813-986-4756 www.thonotosassabaptist.org Sun., 9:45 am, 11am & 6pm Wed., 7pm 1664 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-389-0238 www.floodgateschurch.org Sun., 9am & 11am Tues., 8:30pm, Young Adults Wed., 7pm
Gateway Christian Center Assembly of God
14200 North Central Ave. Tampa, 33613 813-961-4692 www.gatewaytampa.net Sun., 9:45am, 10:45am & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Grace Family Church
5101 Van Dyke Road Lutz, 33558 813-265-4151 www.gracefamilychurch.org Sat., 5 & 7pm, Sun., 9:30am & 11:45am
Grace Outreach Ministries 1900 Oak Grove Blvd. Lutz, 33559 813-316-6606 Sun., 10:30am
Heritage Church
1854 Oak Grove Blvd. Lutz, 33559 813-909-4080 www.yesheritage.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
House of Prayer Church
6305 E. Hillsborough Ave. Tampa, 33610 813-994-5694 www.houseofprayerchurch.org Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm
Keystone Community Church 21010 State Road 54 Lutz, 33558 813-962-4522 www.keystonecommunity.org Sunday School, 9:30am Sunday Worship, 10:30am
Kingdom Worship Center 1102 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, 33612 813-443-5720 Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm
Life Changing International Church
2106 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Valrico, 33594 813-653-9358 www.lifechangingintlministry.com Sun., 1:45pm Celebration Service Mon., Wed. & Fri., 7:30pm
Light Christian Ministries
720 W. Robertson St. Brandon, 33511 813-458-6252 www.lightcm.org Sun., 10am, Tues.& Wed., 7pm
Myrtle Lake Baptist Church 2017 Reigler Road Land O’ Lakes, 34639 813-949-5516 www.myrtlelake.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm
New Birth of Faith Fellowship Church
1725 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, 33612 813-972-0101 www.newbirthoffaith.org Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm
New Life Church
1611 E. Bougainvillea Tampa, 33612 813-244-4355 Sun., 3-5pm, Wed., 7pm
Next Level Church
Tarpon Springs High School 1411 Gulf Rd. Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-279-6362 www.livenextlevel.com Sun., 10am (Cafe) 10:30am (Worship Service)
Oasis World Outreach
35636 State Road 54 West Zephyrhills, 33541 813-782-2888 www.oasisworldoutreach.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Onething Prayer Center
777 W. Lumsden Rd. Brandon, 33511 813-500-9411 www.onethingprayer.com *See website for various church, worship, and prayer service times
Open Arms Church of Ybor City 1314 E. 18th Ave. Tampa, 33605 813-248-2595 www.openarmschurch.org Sun., 10:30am & 1pm (Spanish) Wed., 7pm
Pathway to Peace Christian Church 5808 Lynn Rd. Tampa, 33624 813-908-0893 Bilingual-Spanish Services Sun., 10am, Tues. & Fri., 7:30pm
Reality Church Tampa
1000 N. Florida Ave. Tampa, 33602 813-228-8700 www.realitychurchtampa.com Sun., 10am & 6pm
Revealing Truth Ministries 5201 N. Armenia Avenue Tampa, 33603 813-354-1135 www.revealingtruth.org Sun., 10am, Wed. & Fri., 7pm
River of Life
410 Chapman Rd. East Lutz, 33549 813-949-9931 www.riveroflife-lutz.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue 33425 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-831-5673 www.shoreshdavid.org Fri., 7pm
St. James House of Prayer Episcopal Church 2708 N. Central Ave. Tampa, 33602 813-223-6090 www.sjhoptpa.org Sun., 9am (Traditional), 11:30am (Contemporary)
St. James Methodist Church
16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd. Tampa, 33647 813-971-4790 www.stjamestampa.org Sun., 9am (Traditional), 11am & 12:30pm (Contemporary)
Victorious Life Church
6224 Old Pasco Rd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-973-2230 www.victoriouslifechurch.com Sun., 9am, 10:40am & 6pm Wed., 7pm
Vida Community Church
Meeting at The Dwelling Place 410 W. County Line Rd. Lutz, 33558 813-810-0863 www.vidacommunitychurch.org Bilingual-Spanish Services Sun., 2pm, Thurs., 7pm
Water’s Edge Church
30200 Overpass Road Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-994-5000 www.connectingfaith.com Sun., 11am Wed., Kids - 6:30pm, Adults - 7pm
Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church 6100 Memorial Highway Tampa, 33615 813-886-2536 www.wesleymemorial.net Sun., 9am & 11:15am Wed., 6:30pm
Without Walls Intl. Church
3860 W. Columbus Drive Tampa, 33607 813-879-4673 www.withoutwalls.org Sun., 9am, 11am, 3pm (Spanish) Thurs., 7pm
Zephyrhills First Assembly 36322 State Road 54 Zephyrhills, 33541 813-788-3490 www.zephyrhillsfirst.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Tampa Covenant Church
Want to add your
Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel
If you would like to learn more about how your church can be listed in this section and become a point of distribution, please contact us:
13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd. Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979 www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, Wed., 7pm
33425 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898 www.trinitychurchwc.com Sunday, 8:15am, 10:45am & 9:30 (Bible study)
church?
813-915-6700 or
Contact@OverflowMag.com
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