Overflow 23 | January 2012 by Overflow Magazine

OVERFLOWMAG.COM | JANUARY 2012

jeremy vanderloop A LOOK AT ONE OF TAMPA'S MOST PROMISING CHRISTIAN ARTISTS

HUMBLED AT YOUR FEET a true act of service

FOSTERED BY LOVE SEEK HIS FACE

AND GROW IN FAITH AND WISDOM

Real People, True Stories, In Your Backyard

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

CONTENTS EXPECTED 6 10 12 16 17 18 24 26 27 29 30

FROM THE EDITOR CONTRIBUTOR COVER SPOTLIGHT SALVATION RESOURCES MAGNIFY HIM HEALTHY LIFE HIGHLIGHT MY ROCK EVENTS LOCAL CHURCHES

FEATURED 8

Peace of Mind

God is Our Refuge in the Storm

Baby Steps

Growing in Wisdom

Serving from the Sole

This New Year, let’s keep peace in our minds and hearts, regardless of the challenges we may face. Learn how this is possible when we involve Jesus in every facet of our daily lives.

Oftentimes, the storms of life arise suddenly, taking us by surprise, and leave us feeling frustrated, afraid, and forsaken. But no matter what the problem is, we can rest in God because He is our refuge, an ever-present help in time of trouble.

The story of a young girl, who was hurting and alone, and how God used one foster family to show her the way to Jesus and to express His love for her.

Just as Jesus grew in wisdom during His time here on earth, we too can grow in wisdom by getting to know Him better and spending time in God’s Word.

Washing another's feet is a true act of service. Jesus humbly washed the feet of His disciples and through this act He taught us that, as Christians, we are called to greatly serve and love one another.

MUSIC FOR HIS GLORY

Overflow interviewed Jeremy Vanderloop, an emerging Christian artist that you should be on the lookout for. He candidly shared stories of his humble beginnings, his time in Africa, and how God blessed him with a supernatural ability to play several instruments.

FROM FROM THE EDITOR EDITOR

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JANUARY 2012, Issue 23 ____________________________________ Editor | Amie Cherp amie@overflowmag.com Sales & Marketing | Chris Cherp chris@overflowmag.com Creative | Brady Wright brady@overflowmag.com Our cover story this month features Jeremy Vanderloop, a talented Christian artist. I encourage you to read this inspiring story of how God gave Jeremy the desire of his heart - the ability to play instruments for His glory. God fulfilled his desire beyond what he had asked or thought. Jeremy has been supernaturally gifted. He not only plays several instruments, but also sings and writes songs. Learn more on how Jeremy is giving glory to God and uniting the Body of Christ on page 12.

Dear Friends, A new year has begun! I can’t believe we are already in 2012. We have another exciting year ahead of us that is full of hope, God’s love, and God’s provision. In December, Overflow celebrated its 2-year anniversary. It is exciting to see what our Father has done with the magazine. We are now in over 70 churches across Tampa Bay, and it continues to grow each month. Our God is Awesome! We want to say a special thank you to all our advertisers, all our distribution locations, and all those who have shared their God stories with Tampa Bay. You have helped us spread God’s glory in our community, bringing people hope, inspiration, and the Good News! Overflow will continue bringing Tampa Bay closer to the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Check out “Serving from the Sole” on page 22. This article by Kerry Johnson is a good reminder to serve others as Jesus did and to love others because He first loved us. Let’s show God’s love to our community by serving them. I challenge you this month to selflessly serve at least one person. You will be helping someone, while honoring Jesus! Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Learn on page 16 that salvation is freely given and cannot be earned. Don’t wait another minute to receive this gift of grace and accept Jesus into your heart. Make 2012 the year that changed your life forever. Happy New Year! With Love in Christ Jesus,

Amie Cherp

Let’s begin the New Year in the light of God’s Word. In Alex Corrick’s article, “Growing in Wisdom,” we are encouraged to spend more time with our heavenly Father and His Word. As a result, we will not only grow closer to our Lord, but also grow in wisdom. What a great way to start off the New Year! Instead of making unrealistic resolutions that we can’t keep, let’s resolve to keep peace in our hearts and minds, no matter what we face this year. Learn more in Chris Cherp’s article, “Peace of Mind,” on page 8.

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Creative | Amanda Wright amanda@overflowmag.com Asst. Editor / Writer | Tommy Burrus Asst. Editor | Alexandra Corrick Photography | Stephen T Photography ____________________________________ 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 General Info Inquiry: contact@overflowmag.com Subscribe: Visit www.overflowmag.com and click the subscribe button on the homepage 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 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.

© 2009-2012 Eternal Holdings LLC. All rights reserved. Photo Credits: ; ©iStockphoto.com/Deejpilot, p. 2; ©iStockphoto.com/Fertnig, p. 8; ©iStockphoto.com/Girl_illa, p. 9; ©iStockphoto.com/mattjeacock, p. 25; ©iStockphoto.com/gerenme, p. 16; ©iStockphoto.com/Inkout, p. 20; ©iStockphoto. com/bowdenimages, p. 21; ©iStockphoto.com/Hightower_NRW, p. 22; ©iStockphoto. com/kryczka, p. 24.

PEACE OF MIND

f you’re reading this right now, then you survived the Christmas season. We have great memories of yet another year under our belt. However, some of us have added a few extra pounds to our bodies, while others have increased debt from buying all those gifts for loved ones. Regretfully, now is the time for many of us to begin paying the piper for that additional weight and credit card debt that we racked up during the holidays. This New Year, instead of making resolutions on things that will most likely fall by the wayside before March, let’s try something fresh that will yield us the greatest return possible. What am I talking about? Keeping peace in our minds and hearts, regardless of what challenges we may face this New Year. This is only possible through involving Jesus in every facet of our daily lives. Through Jesus, we have the necessary help to successfully overcome any issues we are facing – like debt. Additional debt is not a favorite topic of discussion for most, especially in the beginning of a new year. Usually driven by guilt, we begin thinking of ways to eliminate the debt on our own. Instead of experiencing the guilt from overextending ourselves during Christmas, let’s begin to deal with our situations by seeking wise counsel from our Lord. I know to some this may sound like a pie in the sky idea when we need real answers and real help, but this is exactly what we need.

Regardless of what we have done this past year, let’s not give the enemy the opportunity to steal our peace, kill our joy, and destroy our life over some mistakes we made.

8 OverflowMag.com January 2012

BY CHRIS CHERP

The devil’s battle field is our minds; let’s not allow him entrance (2 Corinthians 11:3). By keeping our minds renewed with the Word of God, we can find peace, keep our joy, and live an abundant life (John 10:10). Jesus is not only interested in our spiritual success, but also our natural everyday success. When we spend time in the Word seeking Jesus, we will find peace knowing that He is our place of refuge (Psalm 91:2).

just to name a few. “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18, NKJV). Basically, when we begin to see Jesus as He is today, no longer on the cross or in a manger but as

“WHEN WE SPEND TIME IN THE WORD SEEKING JESUS, WE WILL FIND PEACE KNOWING THAT HE IS OUR PLACE OF REFUGE.” It is through the revelation of what Jesus did for all of us at the cross over two thousand years ago that will lead us to a peaceful understanding of who we are in Christ Jesus. This understanding is what leads us to freedom from all oppression, including weight challenges and financial challenges,

King of all, we will be transformed by the Holy Spirit to be like Him. This transformation happens not just in the spiritual realm, but also in the physical realm. We will have the peace, wisdom, and strength to overcome.

That, my friend, is good news! The work that’s required of us is to keep our eyes on Jesus and learn more about Him and who He is now, after the cross. When this is done, the counsel we receive is directly from the Lord and not from man. “‘[W]ho has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?’ But we have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16, NKJV). When we spend time getting to know the Lord better, He will begin to fill our minds with fresh ideas. It could be a new business idea or even an amazing invention. Peace will accompany these new ideas from the Lord, knowing He is there guiding us. The Word tells us that we will prosper and be in health even as our soul prospers (3 John 1:2). Our soul is our mind and emotions. When we renew our mind by reading or hearing the Word of God, we will keep our peace and begin to prosper in all areas of our lives. Basically, when there is fear, there is unbelief. But, when there is peace, there is belief. God wants us peaceful thus believing what He has promised us in His Word. When we renew our minds, we are also casting down all negative thoughts and imaginations by replacing them with the Truth, which is the Word of God (2 Corinthians 10:5). This exercise is complete when we begin to meditate on these Words throughout the day, reminding ourselves aloud of who we are in Christ. “…For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34, NIV). Then, when a future crisis arises we will find the Word of God flowing from our mouths, knowing that God is with us. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and not ourselves or our circumstances. As we begin to increase in understanding of the Lord, let’s not be timid to ask Him for guidance and direction in all our circumstances, for He will gladly guide us. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7, NKJV). This New Year I encourage us all to make the resolution of keeping peace in our minds and hearts. When we find our emotions getting the best of us, stop and take a moment to reflect on a scripture that offers comfort. Let’s continue to keep Jesus involved in everything we do and our eyes on Him at all times. Before we know it, our pants will be loose and our finances will be overflowing. Happy New Year! Glory! ■

CONTRIBUTOR

GOD IS OUR

REFUGE IN THE

BY LOREN MURFIELD, Ph.D.

STORM “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear . . . . The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. . . . Be still, and know that I am God . . . .” PSALM 46 (NIV)

stood in my kitchen totally bewildered, pondering the news I had received from the mechanic. I couldn't believe it! That was the nicest car I have ever owned. I had meticulously maintained it, but now the engine was shot. Worse yet, I still owed a lot of money. How could I pay for it? What will I drive? What am I going to do? Oftentimes, the storms of life arise suddenly, taking us by surprise, and leave us feeling frustrated, afraid, and forsaken. I knew in my mind that God answers prayer but wondered quietly if He would answer mine. Would He care about me, standing in my dinky, little trailer house in a small town in South Dakota? Would the God of the Universe, all-powerful and allknowing, really take time for me? Then I stopped talking and thinking. I stopped plotting and panicking. I fell silent. Then,

amazingly the world stopped spinning. After a few moments, with a quiet heart, I prayed simply, “Lord, I trust You. You know the circumstances, and I have no idea how it will end. Yet, I trust You to work out the details. Thank You right now for what You are going to do.” Once again, I became silent. Surprising things happen when we still our hearts. Standing still in my kitchen that day brought to mind Psalm 46, a Psalm of great comfort and assurance. I love to ponder the first verse that speaks of God being an “ever-present help in trouble.” Knowing that He is “our refuge and strength” helps me to know that life is not a bottomless pit that can swallow me at any point. No, He is there – strong, compassionate, and reliable. He is our Heavenly Father, not an uncle or friend of the family. We are His children. Allow that thought to become part of your being. He is our refuge. We can trust Him. I am also strengthened by knowing that I can run to Him and seek Him out in times of turmoil. He will always be with me, so I do not need to be afraid. Life will bring many difficult and frustrating situations, but with God as my strength, I can feel safe. He is my refuge. It is in this refuge that I am safe from all that I fear. It is in this place that I can step back and observe that God is stronger than any

10 OverflowMag.com January 2012

earthly troubles I may have. In this refuge, I gain the confidence to return to the world with resolve and confidence, determined to succeed. How do I run to this refuge in the middle of my troubles? God tells me to be quiet, to “Be still and know that I am God.” There is no need to complain, whine, or worry. Instead I can simply remember, resolve, and remain. He is the source of my strength and will not forsake me. No matter what the problem is, you can allow God’s presence to surround you and calm the choppy waters of your soul. Climb up on His lap, snuggle close, be still, and listen to His heartbeat. Feel His compassionate, strong arms. Rest in Him. Once you are calm, you are welcome to get down and move freely, knowing He is there, watching, protecting, and supporting. Just 24 hours after I stopped and was still with God, He had worked things out. The loan was rewritten to include the price of a new engine without increasing the payment. The car served me well for another 6 years, long enough to complete the Ph.D. that I had been working on. God does provide a wonderful, heavenly opportunity to come close, trust Him, and face all of life’s troubles with confidence. ■

Dr. Loren Murfield writes, speaks, coaches, and collaborates to help individuals seize their ultimate opportunities. He resides in Odessa with his wife Lisa and is the author of ten books including “Resurrection: The Ultimate Opportunity,” “Turbulent Serenity: Unleash the Ultimate Spiritual Life,” and “The R.O.I of Compassion.” www.UnleashTheUltimate.com

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

FEATURED COVER SPOTLIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ENCOUNTER PHOTOGRAPHYJanuary 2012 OverflowMag.com

MUSIC FOR HIS GLORY A LOOK AT ONE OF TAMPA'S MOST PROMISING CHRISTIAN ARTISTS

Equipped with a pure desire to serve God, Jeremy took piano, guitar, and music theory his senior year in high school. Add in two additional weeks of voice lessons, and that is the sum total of Jeremy's formal training. God supernaturally gifted him with the ability to understand music theory in a very short period of time. Music theory analyzes patterns in music and studies the fundamental elements of harmony, melody, structure, rhythm, and form. Jeremy admitted, "I really write [music] by theory because I don't have much of an ear." During this time of growing and learning, Jeremy spent countless hours each day with the Lord at a place called the House of Prayer in Largo. This was his place for worship where he played his guitar and sang. "It was a very intimate time between me and God," Jeremy recalled. God was developing Jeremy into a musical artist with a solid foundation. There, in his quiet place, the Lord prepared Jeremy for his career and ministry.

BY AMANDA WRIGHT

young man of 23, Jeremy Vanderloop is more than just an emerging Christian artist that you should be on the lookout for. He is an inspired musician and songwriter that genuinely has a heart for helping others, especially orphans and needy people. Jeremy’s desire to help them goes far beyond any religious sense of duty. His personal mission statement is "Love the unlovable, reach the unreachable, and touch the untouchable." Jeremy is a voice of encouragement to the church and those hurting alike, and his music is just the beginning. He graciously sat

the Gospel. So I said, 'Jesus, I want to play instruments for Your glory.'" Jeremy confessed that he couldn't hold a steady beat before he said this prayer. Within four months, however, he miraculously learned how to play several different instruments, including the guitar, piano, bass, drums, and other percussion instruments.

down with Overflow to candidly share his humble launch into the world of Christian music three years ago and how God has provided through it all. Armed with a supernatural ability and a passionate love for Jesus Christ, Jeremy is using his musical talent to give glory to God and unite the Body of Christ.

LEARNING GOD'S MELODY

Jeremy accepted Christ at the tender age of three but rededicated himself at fourteen with a real understanding of his relationship with Jesus. When he was sixteen, his parents split up. Yet, he chose to keep his focus on Jesus Christ, which only grew his passion for sharing the Gospel. Jeremy and his friends would go to the movie theater on the weekends to share Jesus with others. He would talk to people while his friend sang and played the guitar. This sparked something deep within Jeremy. He said, "I had this desire in my heart to play music in regards to preaching

LOVING IN AFRICA

After high school, Jeremy was led to look up the name of Heidi Baker. He found out that she runs Iris Ministries in Mozambique, Africa. The ministry has a three-month program called the Harvest School of Missions. "God spoke to my heart to apply for their October schooling," he said. Jeremy traveled thousands of miles from the comforts of home to live among 300 orphans and other missionary students while attending classes. God told him, "I sent you here to learn how to love more." Jeremy explained, "That was the sole purpose of me going - to learn His love more. [He wanted me to see] what it looked like to love the unlovable, the broken, and the poor and to live with the people there and sit in the dirt with them, to cry with them, and to pray with them." So Jeremy began spending time with the local children or "street swindlers," as he light-heartedly called them. They refer to themselves as "businessmen," Jeremy explained. "Their job was to rip off missionaries" by overcharging them for their goods. Jeremy wanted to get to know these kids,

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

for a placement test, planning to become a doctor. But, God stopped him and said, "Turn around. I don't want you to come back here. I am calling you into music." The voice was unmistakable back then and now the phone call was confirmation. This was it – time to go all in. He took a leap of faith and quit his job to pursue music full time in 2008. "God said go," Jeremy recounted, so he went.

JEREMY & HIS WIFE BRITTANY

gain their trust, and change their perception about missionaries. In order to appeal to them on their level and turn their focus from their “job” of swindling, he would leave his wallet behind and hang out with them at local restaurants. They would share their meals with him and trade stories. Jeremy learned what it was like for them to live in such an impoverished country with no parents to help them. Jeremy helped one 12-year-old boy by paying him to assist in cleaning up the compound where he was living. Afterwards, the boy brought Jeremy back to his mud hut where he and his little sister lived. It changed Jeremy’s life forever. "The living situations were horrible, and I remember my heart wrenched. That is where my passion for the orphans and needy really grew," he said. Another experience in Africa really impacted Jeremy's life: his brush with death. He explained that he was talking with some Muslim people in the village outside the ministry's compound. They brought up Islam, and then Jeremy started talking about Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. One of the men became angry with him and pulled out a knife. The man threatened Jeremy's life if he didn't stop talking about Jesus. "I felt the peace of God in me, and it felt like Heaven. Philippians 1:21 came to me, ‘to live is Christ, and to die is gain,’” Jeremy said. He went on to explain that he knew he would go to Heaven if he was to die right then, but the Muslim guys standing in front of him would not. Jeremy continued, "I felt at peace and looked past my own life. I really felt

the passion of God [flowing through me]. I felt what Christ saw in them, so I kept preaching the Gospel.” The man with the knife appeared to contemplate whether to stab him or not, but ended up walking away. The Holy Spirit moved and the remaining six men received Christ right there. "What they noticed wasn't someone willing to die for his faith, but someone willing to die for them. I believe they saw the love that was in my heart for them," Jeremy said. And so, he accomplished what God set out for him to do in Africa—he learned to love more and more than his own life.

TUNING IN TO GOD'S LOVE

After Jeremy's parents divorced, his father fell into a dark place and became addicted to crack cocaine. Jeremy visited him at the crack house he was living in; he felt compassion for his father and the other people there—all dependent on that drug. He spent time at the house on a regular basis, being kind to these people, before he even shared Jesus with them. Then, God led Jeremy into a 90-day fast from playing on the stage anywhere. He explained that at this point in his musical career, he had become known as “the musician that you could call” because he picked up songs quickly and could play so many instruments. But, Jeremy knew God had another plan for him. This fast from performing allowed God to groom Jeremy into a singer and songwriter as well. During the 90 days, God told Jeremy to play for the people at the crack house where his father resided. He remembers being so excited just to play for someone. "I'm playing my guitar and I do this whole concert for these ‘unlovable’ people that no one wanted. I just started ministering the Gospel during the music," Jeremy said. When he was done, these people were hitting their knees and crying out to God. Jeremy ministered to them and told them about Christ. He loved a group of people that society had cast aside because of their addictions. "A week later my dad was in recovery and off drugs," he shared. Jeremy had learned to "stop for the unwanted and love the unlovable." Jeremy truly discovered how to relate to Jesus' ministry when He walked this earth. God taught Jeremy His kind of love and how to share it.

SONGS OF FAITH

When Jeremy finished his 90-day fast, he received a call from a friend, who offered to fly him to Nashville to record his first demo. Just the year before, Jeremy was walking into a college

14 OverflowMag.com January 2012

After doing the demo and an EP, Jeremy went on to produce his first, full-length album called The Rescue, which was released in April 2010. As Jeremy explained it, this album represents not only Christ’s holiness and love, but also His finished work on the cross that rescued us from sin and eternal separation from God. In April 2011, he released Love Is In The Air, an album inspired by his wife Brittany. It was an early wedding gift for her. And he explained, "It is a comparison between God's love for us and a husband's love for his wife."

The amazing part of the story is how Jeremy completed four albums debt free in three years. He toured the country without much in the bank. "If He spoke to you, He is going to provide it," Jeremy said. With three shows booked, $40 in his pocket, an old and very worn Rodeo, and a 6’x10’ trailer with tires shaped like cones, Jeremy was ready to go on his first three-week tour. From the outside looking in, Jeremy looked a little naïve, but God told him to go. Jeremy had faith and knew in his heart that God had already provided a way, whether he and his bandmates could see it yet or not. Within two days, they had finances for the trip, new tires for the trailer, fluids changed in the car, and three weeks of gigs booked up. Jeremy remembered one instance where a complete stranger approached him at an auto parts store to hand him money after he had just spent his last $20 on maintaining the vehicle. The person

said, "I don't know why I'm doing this, but here is $20. I don't know you, but I feel like I am supposed to support you." How can you explain this? “It's being led by the Lord, being led by His Spirit," Jeremy said. In his eyes, God will use others, Christian or not, to support His cause. God has brought in, and continues to bring in, all of the resources Jeremy needs to pay for the production of records and touring expenses. Our God is JehovahJireh, the Lord Who always provides!

COMPOSING FOR CHRIST

"It's all about Him," Jeremy said. "Christ is the center of my music, He is the center of my marriage, and He is the center of my life." Jeremy explained that Jesus is involved in every aspect of his songwriting, "whether it’s bold and blatant, like saying His Name, or whether it gives a reference to what He is known as, like King of Kings." Jeremy prayed to learn how to write music, and he continues to pray each time he sits down to compose. The Lord fills his heart with lyrics, melodies, and chord structures. He has the ability to write a song in under 30 minutes, but Jeremy said he is trying to get a little deeper in his writing and really marinate in the words of the song. Jeremy’s pursuit is to write music that will "influence and pierce man's heart, to bring them to a place of repentance and understanding of who God is and where He is in their life." He finds inspiration in day-to-day life situations, struggles in his own Christian walk, scripture, and his passion for God. Jeremy's style is unique and as Brittany put it, "he entertains for the sake of the Gospel, so each song is pinpointing a message." According to Jeremy, his music is acoustic pop rock with lyrics that will grab the audience's attention and plant a seed. He always plays an instrument in each song, and his long-time friend, CJ, adds depth to the music with the cello. Jeremy is extraordinarily talented, and he puts on a great show. You can't help but tap your foot and enjoy his voice. Find out where he is playing next at www.JeremyVanderloop.com.

HARMONIZING MUSIC AND MINISTRY

Music is only the start of what God has called Jeremy to do. His ministry began at his home church. "As a full-time artist and musician, it's very important to have a home base, a foundation, and accountability," Jeremy said. He and his wife are close to their pastors and are on staff at their church, All Nations Outreach Center in Tampa. Brittany is the Children's Director and Jeremy leads a young adult Bible study in addition to being the resident artist. As Jeremy’s music grows, he has a vision for his ministry, His Breaking Heart Ministries, to grow alongside it. "The idea is for the ministry to go way beyond my music," Jeremy said. He wants the music to help fund the ministry efforts. Jeremy’s motivation for starting the ministry resulted from his trip to Africa. While there, he met a missionary from another ministry in the very same city, but neither of them had ever heard of the other’s organization. Jeremy said it was such a shame that they were doing the same work in the same city and weren't connected. "The idea [behind the ministry] is to create unity through networking opportunities in the Body of Christ," Jeremy explained. He wants to

JEREMY'S ALBUMS

LOVE IS IN THE AIR (2011)

THE RESCUE (2010)

BUY THEM AT: JeremyVanderloop.com raise awareness for the need of unity among Christians on the mission field and in the Church. Long-term, Jeremy sees a network of Christian artists, ministries, missionaries, and other organizations partnering together to meet global needs. More recently, Jeremy has also joined Mission of Mercy as an artist representative. This organization ministers to children through child development centers and partnerbased schools all across the world. The ministry believes in a holistic approach, whereby they minister to a child's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. "My involvement is to find individuals in our culture and at our concerts to sponsor these children. We sponsor a little girl in Honduras," Jeremy shared. If they reach the goal of 100 kids sponsored by the end of this month, Mission of Mercy will fly Jeremy and Brittany to meet their little girl. To learn more about the ministry, visit www.missionofmercy.org. If you are interested in sponsoring a child, contact Jeremy at JerVanMusic@ gmail.com. So what's next for this bright, young, faith-filled musician? Stayed tuned for a worship album in the Fall called All Creation Sings. You won't be disappointed. Glory! ■

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

SALVATION

o often people think that they must DO good things in order for God to forgive them for their past and accept them. They are under the assumption that they must perform good works to receive salvation. Friends, we are here to point you to the Truth – Jesus Christ. In Ephesians, Paul tells us that it is by grace that we have been saved, not through works. This is truly "The Good News!" Grace is undeserved kindness and unmerited favor that God freely gave us when He sent Jesus to die for us. Paul also explains in Romans 3 that we have all fallen short of the glory of the Lord, but we have been "justified FREELY by

'NOT BY WORKS' His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 3:24, NKJV). There is nothing that you have done or will do that can earn your salvation. Similarly, there is nothing that you have done or will do that will separate you from the love of God once you believe and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ earned salvation for us when God sent Him to the cross as a sacrifice for our sin. Through Jesus' blood we are offered grace. Our works can never earn what was freely given to us through the finished work on the cross. Won't you accept the gift of grace and make Jesus your Lord and Savior today?

If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, 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!

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV)

RESOURCES FOR YOUR SPIRIT

LISTEN

COLOSSIANS 1:10 (NRSV)

“So that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God.”

MEREDITH ANDREWS

READ

The Invitation www.MeredithAndrews.com

HEAVEN IS FOR REAL

"A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back" By Todd Burpo with Lynn Vincent This is the true story of a little boy who survives emergency surgery and subsequent life-threatening infections, as told by his father who is a pastor of a small church in Nebraska. Four-year-old Colton tells his parents stories of his visit to Heaven during his surgery, giving details that made it clear he was telling the truth. He described passed-away family members that he had never met or seen pictures of.

PETER FURLER

On Fire www.PeterFurler.com

■ Find it at: www.HeavenIsForReal.com

Colton also shared astonishing Biblical details about Heaven that a child could not have known, including God's throne, and descriptions of Jesus. He tells of how Jesus held him in His lap and how the Holy Spirit sends power down to his dad during his sermons. This wonderful book is eye-opening and hard to put down. As Christians, we all believe in Heaven, but reading a child’s depiction of it brings an astounding, new revelation of God's love for us and the place He has prepared for us once we depart this earth. This is a must read!

WATCH

JOHN MARK McMILLAN

THE LEAST AMONG YOU

Economy

Dove Family-Approved (for ages over 12), PG-13, approx. 97 mins

www.TheJohnMark.com

INSPIRED BY A TRUE STORY “Arrested in the 1965 Watts riots, Richard Kelly must serve probation at an all-white seminary. Although encouraged to break racial boundaries by its president Alan Beckett, the school wants black followers, not leaders. Even former missionary Kate Allison initially rejects Richard. With a prison sentence looming, Richard meets Samuel Benton – ‘the gardener in the basement.’ As Samuel guides him through his many trials, Richard must choose between his dreams and his destiny.”

AARON KEYES Dwell

www.AaronKeyes.com

■ Find it at: www.FamilyChristian.com

This movie inspires viewers to surrender to God's plan for their own lives and to live with integrity and do the right thing no matter what the outcome may be. This film also portrays how faith overcomes adversity when you look to Jesus. The Least Among You is a powerful drama, but does include some violence.

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!

BABY STEPS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY KYMBERLY BOSWELL PHOTOGRAPHY AT TERRA'S HORSE BOARDING

am a 17-year-old foster kid, and all I can say is God came to my rescue. He loved me before I even knew Him. I came from a broken and dysfunctional home. I was this lost and damaged kid with no hope left. I never knew God, attended church regularly, or even read the Bible. But I always found myself on my knees crying out prayers, hoping they'd be heard even though at the time, I didn't have faith.

18 OverflowMag.com January 2012

I was taken out of my home in 2011 because of abuse. I went from place to place but never had a traditional home. I ended up homeless and a runaway. Eventually, I was picked up by the police as a missing child and taken into custody. They placed me in a detention center overnight, so I could attend court the following morning. This is when my life changed forever, and God performed a miracle. That next morning, I was taken before a judge. I was trying to hold back my fear, but tears rolled down my cheeks, and my heart wanted to jump right out of my chest. I was shaken and just completely broken, but the worst part was the feeling of being all alone—or so I thought. This is where Gil Valdes comes in. Gil worked as a bailiff at the courthouse, and that day he changed his routine. One of his friends couldn't make it into work, so instead of starting on the bottom floor of the courthouse with the adults, he started on the top with the juveniles. That’s where I was when he found me. He saw me

SUBMITTED BY: SAMANTHA OF LUTZ, FL

there and his heart broke. The Holy Spirit worked in him and he offered me a home with his family. At the time, I didn't realize God was on my side and always had been. Since that day, my life has changed completely; I have a family and I have a future that I would have never had before. My heart is filled with joy because I am at peace—thanks to the love of God. Even though I was living with a new foster family who had great things to offer, my history of being abused and let down caused me to struggle with trust. Despite that, these strangers kept telling me I was worth keeping around, even with all my faults and shortcomings. I couldn’t begin to wrap my mind around it. I didn’t understand that there are good people in the world, true Christian people driven by love, who want to help people like me and make a difference in the world. When you see so much hurt and hate in the world, it’s hard to see past it. God has changed my life so much. When I first came to live with the Valdes family, I had no intention of going to church. My exact words were, “I’m not going to church with all those church people.” After I said those words, it was like I could still taste them—they really lingered with me, and I began to think about why my heart was so far from God. I had grown up wondering, “Why is my life so terrible? Why doesn’t God love me? Why hasn’t He been here for me?” I was mad, I didn’t understand, and I didn’t have anyone to set me straight. The Valdes family didn’t really know how to take my rejection of their first invitation to attend church with them. They didn’t push it on me and assured me that they would never force me to do anything I didn’t want to do. As time went on and I began to settle in, I was again asked to attend church as a part of the family. This time I agreed. When that Sunday morning rolled around, I was unsure of what to expect. It was the first time I went to Grow Life Church, and the moment I stepped in those doors, I knew I was home. When Pastor James began to speak, I was mesmerized by the wisdom that poured from his heart. I listened intently, holding back tears and really taking in what was said. This was just the start of my relationship with God. While at church that morning, this guy wearing a beanie came up to me and introduced himself as Tony. He told me all about this awesome youth group that he was running and how I

should start coming. I smiled politely and kind of just shrugged off what he had to say. Weeks went by and I never went to this group; however, Tony was relentless with invitations. Then one Sunday morning, he approached me at church and told me of this plan to go worship with the kids at the beach and wanted me to come along. Now he was talking my language—the beach at sunset! I couldn’t wait. I went with the youth group to the beach that night, and it was amazing. The worship was completely exhilarating. That evening, I started to turn over a new leaf, and I began attending the youth group regularly. One day, Tony announced information about Pathfinders Camp – a Christian

Since finding God, I have been the happiest I've ever been in my entire life. I used to lead a life of sin and loneliness, but now that Jesus is alive in me, I want to live a new life where I can rid myself of anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language. I want to live a beautiful life full of love and happiness. I want to share the joy I have found with others. I want to disciple as many as I can. I want them to feel the love I have for God and the love He has for all of us. Living a life of humility, gentleness, and patience is wonderful and empowering when you can forgive as Christ forgave you. I finally have a family—a Christian family—where our heavenly Father is the King of the Universe. It just makes my heart want to shout out in praise. As a result of being saved and letting God into my life, I now see that love is a movement. It isn’t an emotion of sanity; it’s completely insane and doesn’t always make sense. It was completely insane for this family to take in a damaged teenage girl, but they did it. That just shows

“I WANT TO LIVE MY LIFE FOR GOD BECAUSE IT IS THROUGH HIS LOVE THAT I WAS SAVED AND THAT I FOUND A PLACE WHERE I WAS MEANT TO BE.” youth camp in Tennessee. All of the kids were super hyped, but of course, I had no desire to go. I wasn’t planning on going, but God had another plan. I did attend Pathfinders Camp, and my life was forever changed because I got saved on July 1, 2011 while at camp. After returning from camp, I had a new fire in my heart for God.

how much God really works in our lives. Feeling secure even with God by my side is still an everyday struggle. There are days when I feel like an outsider in a foreign land and days when I feel just completely broken, but I put all my faith in God. I pray that I will be completely healed, and each day things get easier. God has truly blessed me greatly. To whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48). I have many goals for the future, and I’m taking baby steps every day to get there.

When I read Colossians 3, it reminds me of the fact that God worked in my life that day at the courthouse and has continued to do so. Now that I am believer, I know that my purpose in life is to follow God. I want to live my life on the right path. I want to put to death any vice I may have. I want to live my life for God because it is through His love that I was saved and that I found a place where I was meant to be. God has worked in my life, and now I want to work in the lives of others.

During all the chaos in my life, I had fallen very far behind in school, but I’ve managed to get all caught up. I am going to graduate on time and that’s just step one on my path to a brighter future. I plan on attending a community college after high school, going to a university from there, and eventually, I hope to earn a medical degree to become an anesthesiologist. Words can’t even begin to explain how overwhelmed with joy I am at the opportunity to attend college and have the chance at a good future. It’s something that would never have been possible before, and I am truly thankful that God touched my life and blessed me with a wonderful, loving family. ■

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

GROWING in WISDOM BY ALEX CORRICK

iving up chocolate, exercising regularly, spending more time with family, sticking to a budget—what kind of New Year’s resolutions do you usually find yourself making each year? No matter what it is, we often find ourselves struggling to maintain our commitments. As we move out of the Christmas season and look with hope towards a new year, we have another opportunity: to grow in our faith. In Luke 2:52 (NIV), we read, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” We too can grow in wisdom by spending time with our heavenly Father and studying His Word. Before we find ourselves suddenly at Easter, let’s set aside this important time to spend in the Word of God. The first few months of the New Year are ideal for reminding ourselves about the basics of our faith—or perhaps, for a new Christian, studying them for the first time. Over the past few months, I have been participating in a women’s Bible study where we have been going through the Gospel of Mark, using a study by Tim Keller. It truly has been a challenging, life-changing experience. Stepping out and doing something like a Bible study might be uncomfortable at first, but genuine fellowship over the Word of God with other believers can change us in ways we simply can’t grow on our own. Going through spiritually dry times can be frustrating and even possibly cause us to lose our motivation to seek God at all. Yet, we are exhorted in Isaiah 55:6 (NIV) to “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.” Psalm 27:8 (NIV) says, “My heart says of You, ‘Seek His face!’ Your face, Lord, I will seek.” When even our resolution to read the Bible and pray every day seems to be broken, we still have hope! God has come near to us in Jesus and revealed Himself. Christ said, “Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear” (Mark 4:21-23, NIV). This passage reminds us of the most important thing: Jesus is the light of the world! By Him we can see and

20 OverflowMag.com January 2012

"Just as Jesus grew in wisdom during His time here on earth, we too can grow in wisdom by getting to know Him better and spending time in God's Word." understand, and by Him the hidden things are brought to the open. What is more, He is the light for salvation to the Gentiles—that’s us (Luke 2:32)! Because of Christ’s first coming, the reason we celebrate Christmas, we now have light, understanding, and reconciliation to God. And this

AUTHOR RECOMMENDATION

THE PURSUIT OF GOD by A.W. Tozer

year can be illuminated by His light unlike any other. Rather than making another ‘resolution,’ why not devote these first few months to studying the Word of God and the foundations of our faith? Christ is our light, and He has given us His Holy Spirit to grant us understanding! Just as Jesus grew in wisdom during His time here on earth (Luke 2:40, 52), we too can grow in wisdom by getting to know Him better and spending time in God’s Word. Maybe it means joining a small group Bible study or perhaps starting one at your church. Maybe it is taking a class at a Bible college or reading the Bible-based works of Christian authors. There are numerous resources online, at your local Christian bookstores, and at your church for diving deeper into the Word of God and getting to know Him better. Let’s start this year by walking in the light of God’s Word! ■

CONTRIBUTOR

SERVING FROM THE SOLE

>>> KERRY JOHNSON

BY KERRY JOHNSON

hey wanted to do what to my what? I stared at the four young women perched on the corners of the large Roman tub. The water was a few inches deep; colorful containers of foot scrubs and lotion were scattered about the bathroom floor and the tub’s edge. The sharp smell of peppermint reached my nostrils. Insecurity rose up as I looked down. My feet? Someone wanted to wash and scrub my feet? My long, Florida suntanned toes contrasted sharply against the white

22 OverflowMag.com January 2012

bathroom tile. Their lack of daily care was much too evident. Each toenail was a different length, and the shiny pinkish-purple nail polish I’d painted on in early October barely clung to two of my nails. I’d parted ways with my pumice stone when my son Chase was still in diapers and hadn’t gotten around to buying another. I had no problem with washing and scrubbing someone else’s feet. It was the unsettling idea of having one of the sweet young women from church rub my own callused, tomboy tootsies that had me frowning with nervousness and embarrassment. We were having a laid-back girls’ night out, enjoying a variety of delicious snacks and treats while planning a little spa pampering, all sprinkled with talk of jobs, husbands, and families. Most of the ladies were 20-something newlyweds; there was only one other woman with children there. It felt good to have my mind off my children and house for a couple hours, recharging my batteries. “Come on, I’ll do yours.” Danielle, a petite brunette with beautiful brown eyes and a quick smile, motioned me over. I cringed inside, wishing I could trade in my serviceable, perpetually flipflop clad feet for a pair of dainty, nail-polish-highlighted feet. “I apologize for any trauma this may cause,” I muttered as I climbed

transportation for our body. If they’re tired, hurt or sore, that’s most likely the state of our body as well. I realized that washing another's feet was a true act of service. I was also reminded of Jesus in the book of John. After sharing the Passover Meal with His disciples, He “took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded” (John 13:4-5, NKJV). Imagine the disciples’ shock at having God’s perfect Son bent down in front of them, dark hair spilling around His beloved face as He concentrated on their feet! Peter even incredulously asked, “Lord, are You washing my feet?” (John 13:6, NKJV).

have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." Our love for one another should be a mirror image of the love of our Savior. It’s a tall order, and one I fail at regularly. But when I strive after Jesus, I'm striving toward this end: learning to love and serve others selflessly. Paul exhorts us in Philippians: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4, NKJV).

What exactly was Jesus telling and showing His disciples—and us? Why was it necessary for Him to humble Himself to wash His disciples’ feet? Jesus chose to do what they could very easily have done for each other. But He was soon to leave earth, and He wasn't finished teaching His disciples. "Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest" (Luke 22:24, NKJV). Jesus was settling this dispute with His actions. He said, “For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you” (John 13:15, NKJV). He lowered Himself to the floor and not only showed His love for them, but also became an example of how we, as Christ-followers, are to love and serve each other.

in and sat on the tub lip. Smiling sheepishly, I traded my foot for hers and tried to relax. Washing someone else’s feet was a novel experience. Though I’d occasionally massaged my husband’s feet, I’d never actually washed them. When my children were babies, they were each ticklish enough that I couldn’t linger around those pink sausages long for fear of being splashed, being kicked, or causing a miniature tidal wave. As I carefully scrubbed Danielle’s feet, it struck me how intimate and humbling this experience was for both the washer and washee. After all, our feet see and touch the worst of wherever we are—the ground, the inside of well-used shoes, the dirt or grass—places we wouldn’t put our hands. Our feet are the

Jesus doesn't call us to be great for Him; He calls us to greatly serve each other for Him. When I read over this account in the book of John, I couldn’t help but see Jesus—God’s beloved Son, my wonderful, sinless Savior—acknowledging and overcoming the dark heart of human nature…self. Human nature, from the first cries of birth to the quiet groans of death, struggles to elevate itself above others. We naturally seek self before and above anyone else. And James reminds us that “where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there” (James 3:16, NKJV). Yet, self-seeking goes against the sanctified, redeemed nature of those born again through faith in Jesus Christ. "…But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:11, NKJV). God’s Word warns against selfishness while teaching and admonishing toward selflessness. The Bible states that the fruit of the Spirit is “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…” (Galatians 5:22-23, NKJV). Our natural tendency is to fight first and foremost for our own good, yet we were not created by God for this purpose. We exist side by side with others on purpose and with purpose to serve others as Jesus served and to love others because God first loved us. That’s what God has called us to do. Jesus told His disciples in John 13:34-35 (NKJV), "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I

“WE EXIST SIDE BY SIDE WITH OTHERS ON PURPOSE AND WITH PURPOSE TO SERVE OTHERS AS JESUS SERVED AND TO LOVE OTHERS BECAUSE GOD FIRST LOVED US.” Through the act of washing and drying the disciples’ feet, Jesus showed us precisely how we’re to defeat our human desire of elevating self. “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14, NKJV). Likewise, when we live out humble obedience to God and to His Word, we can learn to let go of our overwhelming desire for self and grab onto a Christ-centered desire to serve others. Although washing another person’s feet isn’t a regular occurrence in my life, the selfless act of doing so reminded me of the importance of serving others, which in turn honors my Savior, Jesus. ■

January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

HEALTHY LIFE

FIRST RESPONSE BY CHRIS CHERP

hat happens in the first few moments following an emergency is critical to the outcome. In cases of choking, it’s important to immediately administer the Heimlich maneuver to the victim to clear any obstruction from the air passage. Likewise, when a person goes into cardiac arrest, it is critical to their survival for the first responder to administer CPR immediately to keep blood flowing to the brain and other organs. Most of us are familiar with these examples of a first response when it comes to aiding someone in a life-threatening situation. However, when it comes to non-life-threatening situations in our own lives as believers, we often seem to have no idea what our first response should be. For example, most people have no idea what to do when they lose their temper, have a lustful thought, or even say something mean to someone they love. In the past, when I made a mistake, I would feel guilty and continually beg God for forgiveness. However, there is absolutely no faith involved in that process. The Bible says in Romans 4:2-5 that Abraham was accounted righteous by his faith and not by his actions. As a matter of fact, there are accounts in the Bible that speak of Abraham making mistakes, where he lied to save his own hide (Genesis 20:2), but God still called him righteous (Galatians 3:6). This confirms that it was, in fact, by faith that Abraham was accounted righteous. So, what does this mean for us? First, let’s get a better understanding of what it means to be righteous in God’s eyes. To be righteous in

God’s eyes simply means to be in right standing with Him. This is only possible because of what Jesus did for us at Calvary. When we made Jesus our Lord and Savior, we were put in right standing with God, and He remembers our sins no more (Hebrews 10:17). As Christians, it is very important to have a clear understanding of who we have become through the perfect and completed work of Jesus at the cross – we are forgiven. It is not by our own efforts that we have become righteous,

of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34, NKJV). We need to continually remind ourselves of who we are in Christ by saying: we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, not by our works but by His blood. Keep in mind, the best time to speak this over ourselves is when we mess up. Go ahead and say it out loud right now: “I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.” In the first moments after our mistakes, let’s begin to exercise our faith and remind ourselves that we are righteous in Christ Jesus.

“We are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, not by our works but by His blood.” but through Christ Jesus’. God stands outside time, and when He exhausted His judgment on Jesus for all our sins, it covered every sin in our past, present, and future. The devil will try in every way he can to condemn us when we mess up. He likes to throw the law in our face and tries to direct our eyes on ourselves, instead of on Jesus. When this happens, we start trying to obtain right standing with God through our own efforts and good works. This will never work, and the devil knows it. So, what should our first response be the next time we mess up or fail? “…For out

24 OverflowMag.com January 2012

Remember, what happens in the moments following an emergency is critical to the outcome. Similarly, when we fail (even though it may not be life threatening), our first response will determine the outcome of our situation. By making our first response one of faith, reminding ourselves that we are in right standing with God, we will yield good results every time. Instead of allowing our day to be ruined, let’s make the conscious effort to remind ourselves of who we are in Christ. We are forgiven! By practicing this in our lives, by faith, we will successfully overcome these situations and be empowered to avoid them in the future. Glory! ■

HIGHLIGHT

WINDOW TO THE SOUL BY STEPHANIE DAWSON

magine what it would be like to live in a world of darkness without the gift of sight – for many it would be very difficult. Common sense tells us that the eyes are an important part of the body, but how often are they neglected or left untreated until the first sign of impairment? Prevention is always better than cure and that sentiment is echoed by Dr. David Scamard, owner of the Eyeglass Factory and Showroom. The Eyeglass Factory is a local, family-run business whose first priority is to serve God as well as the community. The business was founded by Charley Chaney in 1977. He has since handed the business over to his son-in-law, Dr. David Scamard, who took ownership in 2007. Dr. Scamard and his wife, Dawn, run the business with the assistance of Charley, other family members, and their team of professional staff. I had the privilege of speaking to Dr. Scamard to learn more about his business.

How did you get started in your business?

I was born and raised in Tampa and had a desire to help people. I knew I wanted to work in the medical field, and I studied at USF. During that time, I founded the Pre-Optometry Society and was president for eighteen months. After graduating from Nova Southeastern University [with a doctorate in Optometry], I worked for eight years in both commercial and private practice before taking ownership of the Eyeglass Factory and Showroom.

Q A

What does your business do?

We are an eye care center that meets the needs of the whole family. We have three main centers of excellence: contact lenses, pediatrics, and sports vision.

We have plans to expand our sports vision department and will be opening a sports vision training center called Maxim Eyes, in early 2012. There has been a great call for this service and I saw the need in the community.

How has God guided you to where you are today in your business?

God has brought me through a lot. When I started college my father became ill, and I had to put my education on hold to care for him. I constantly prayed to God for guidance to lead me in the direction that He had for my life and He gave me a passion for the healthcare field. This is where my reward lies as I gain so much satisfaction from helping patients to see. I am able to do what Jesus did and improve the sight of those in need.

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What role does God play in your company?

The power of prayer is a wonderful thing! Without it I would not have a business, as I rely on His grace for the day-to-day running of the business with its many challenges. You could say God is my business advisor and I seek His knowledge.

At what age should you start getting your eyes checked and why is it important?

I recommend as early as six months old and then on a regular basis thereafter. So many illnesses and other health issues can be detected just by examining the eyes.

How often should you have your eyes checked?

physical check up. A screening, such as those carried out in schools, does not take the place of an actual exam. Secondly, do not read or sit at the computer for too long. Take a break every thirty minutes and look away for up to five minutes. Finally, it is a fact that carrots, which contain antioxidants and beta-carotene, are very good for the eyes. ■ The eyes are the “window to the soul” and need to be viewed as such. Take care of them and they will take care of you. Check out the Eyeglass Factory and Showroom ad on page 25. We encourage you to visit them at their location. Tell them Overflow sent you!

MORE INFO

In the case of a healthy person, at least once a year. If there are any health issues, then every three to six months.

Q A

Do you have any special advice on eye care - like eat more carrots?

My best advice would be, first of all, have an eye exam regularly before a problem arises – at least as often as a

ADDRESS

24444 SR 54, Lutz (just W. of I-75)

PHONE

813-949-7274

ONLINE

EyeglassFactoryAndShowroom.com

MY ROCK

SCRIPTURES I STAND ON

Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This scripture keeps me going each day. When I wake up, I know that I can do anything because Jesus is my biggest fan. I know He is always with me and He delivers me. That’s what makes me fearless and strong!

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

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” When things get tough, this is my “go-to” scripture! Reciting this scripture immediately reminds me that God is Sovereign in all circumstances and motivates me to joyfully look at things from an eternal perspective.

EVENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

JANUARY 7, 14, Christian Salsa Lessons 21 Presented by Dancing with Grace University Mall 2200 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 813-943-1117 www.dancingwithgrace.com *Bible study, lessons, practice 6:30pm, Every Saturday - $10

New Tampa Women's Prayer Connection Bob Evans

Winter Jam 2012

With Skillet, NewSong, Sanctus Real, Peter Furler, Group 1 Crew, & More!

Sidewalk Prophets Concert Manatee County Fair

"New Year, New You" Family Health Fair Vida Community Church 410 County Line Rd. West, Lutz 813-454-1719 *Raffles, face painting, bouncy house, crafts, popcorn, free health screenings & more! 10am-3pm, FREE

Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza Bayshore Blvd.

(from Bay to Bay to Watrous/Orleans Avenues) *Vendors, children's activities, parade www.gasparillaextravaganza.com 11am-7:30pm

St. Pete Times Forum 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa www.jamtour.com 6pm, $10

701 W. Lime St., Lakeland 863-834-8100 www.gaither.com 7pm (Fri.), 12pm & 7pm (Sat.)

5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa 813-961-2810 11am-1pm, $15

16314 North Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa 813-961-2810 9am

27-28 Gaither Fest - Gospel Music Concert Lakeland Center

New Tampa Women's Connection Luncheon Tampa Palms Country Club

1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto 941-722-1639 www.sidewalkprophets.com 8pm

New Year's Do Over Party Presented by Dancing with Grace University Mall 2200 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 813-943-1117 www.dancingwithgrace.com *Christian Salsa Lessons 6:30pm

RH Trade Show & Job Expo Presented by Riverhills Church of God 6310 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-244-4278, expo@riverhills.org *Christian Businesses 9am-3pm

Mat Kearney: Young Love Tour

The Ritz Ybor 1503 E. 7th Ave., Tampa www.matkearney.com 8pm

FEBRUARY 4, 11, Christian Salsa Lessons 18, 25 Presented by Dancing with Grace University Mall 2200 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 813-943-1117 www.dancingwithgrace.com *Bible study, lessons, practice 6:30pm, Every Saturday - $10

Dominic Balli, Benjah & Urban D Promoted by Calvary Chapel of St. Pete

International Plaza, Tampa 813-943-1117 www.dancingwithgrace.com *dance lessons, vow renewal, dinner 6:30pm, $120 per couple

687 Central Ave., St. Pete www.calvarystp.org 7pm

Jeremy Camp Concert First Baptist Church of Orlando

3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando 407-425-2555 www.firstorlando.com 7pm

Velveteen Rabbit

Straz Center, TECO Theater 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 *For ages 3-5 www.strazcenter.org 11am, 1pm & 3pm, $8.50 (and up)

Life Impact Network Annual Valentine's Luncheon With Guest Speaker Carol Kent Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa 813-931-1804 www.lifeimpactnetwork.org Time, TBD

Maestro's Restaurant at the Straz Center 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-229-7827 *Live entertainment, dancing & 4-course meal 6pm, $100/couple

14, 19, Love Remembers Vow Renewal 26 Presented by Dancing with Grace The Brio Ballroom

State Theatre

Valentine's Day at Maestro's

Paul Wilbur Concert

Needtobreathe: The Reckoning Tour

Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue 33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel 813-760-3269 www.shoreshdavid.org 7pm

The Ritz Ybor 1503 E. 7th Ave., Tampa www.needtobreathe.net 8pm

ADD YOUR EVENT

Lowry Park Zoo $5 Day

Presented by Walmart 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 www.lowryparkzoo.com 9:30am-5pm

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

Deadlines are the 15th* of each month *Space is limited

An Evening with C.S. Lewis Carrollwood Cultural Center Main Theatre 4537 Lowell Rd., Tampa 813-269-1310 7-9pm

UPGRADE YOUR EVENT

Come to the Well Tour - Casting Crowns with Matthew West, Royal Tailor & Lindsay McCaul

UCF Arena

Building 50 N. Gemini Blvd., Orlando 407-823-3070 www.castingcrowns.com 7pm

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January 2012 Love+Faith+Hope

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

Atonement Lutheran Church

29617 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-973-2211, www.be-at-1.org Sun., 10am

Bell Shoals Baptist Church

2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon, 33511 813-689-4229, www.bellshoals.com Sun., 9:15am & 11am, Wed., 7pm

Branch of Christ Ministries

27223 SR 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

Meeting at The Italian Club 1731 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, 33605 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

26211 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-907-5815, www.crossroadsum.com Sun., 9am (Traditional Worship) & 10:30am (Contemporary Worship)

Dwelling Place

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

Meeting at 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., 9:30 & 11am, Wed., 7pm Thurs., 7pm (Healing School)

Faith Family Worship Center

14514 Del Valle Rd., Tampa, 33625 813-920-3685, www.ffwc.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Family Harvest Worship Church Meeting at Hunters Green Elementary 9202 Highland Oak Dr., Tampa, 33647 813-973-FHWC, www.fhwc.net Sun., 10am

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)

First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church

10650 McIntosh Rd., Thonotosassa, 33592 813-986-4756, www.thonotosassabaptist.org Sun., 9:45 am, 11am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

Floodgates Community Church

Meeting at Bartels Middle School 9020 Imperial Oaks Blvd. Tampa, 33647 813-406-1971, www.floodgateschurch.org Sun., 10:30am

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 Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-265-4151, www.GFConline.com Sat., 5 & 7pm, Sun., 9:30am & 11:45am

Grace Outreach Ministries

1900 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz, 33559 813-316-6606 Sun., 10:30am

Grow Life Church

Meeting at Veterans Elementary School 26940 Progress Pkwy., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-406-8963, www.growlifechurch.com Sun., 10am

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 SR 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, www.kwctoday.com Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm

Legacy Church

2702 Causeway Center Dr., Tampa, 33609 813-770-LIFE, www.legacyfam.com Sat., 6pm

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

730 W. Robertson St., Brandon, 33511 813-458-6252, www.lightcm.org Sun., 10am, Tues.& Wed., 7pm

Myrtle Lake Baptist Church

2017 Reigler Rd., 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., 3pm-5pm, Wed., 7pm

New Millennium Community Church 4810 E. Busch Blvd., Suite I, Tampa, 33617 813-381-5463 www.newmillenniumchurch.org Sun., 8:30am & 11am, Wed., 7:30pm

New Wine Outreach Ministry

6213 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33610 813-443-4503 Sun., 11am, Wed., 7:30pm, Fri. Prayer, 7pm (2nd & 4th Fri.)

NorthBridge Church

2025 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel, 33543 (Meeting at John Long Middle School) 813-319-4588, www.northbridgechurch.info Sun., 10am

Oasis World Outreach

35636 SR 54 West, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-782-2888, www.oasisworldoutreach.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm

Open Arms Church of Ybor City

1314 E. 18th Ave., Tampa, 33605 813-248-2595, www.openarmschurch.org Sun., 10:30am, 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

Revival Worship Church

9270 Bay Plaza Blvd., Suite 600, Tampa, 33619 813-621-8886, www.revivalworshipchurch.com Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 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 SR 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., 9:30am (Traditional), 11am & 12:30pm (Contemporary)

Tampa Covenant Church

13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd., Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979, www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, Wed., 7pm

Torre Fuerte Tampa

Meeting at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church 19911 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-410-7220 Spanish Services Sat., 7pm

Trinity Alliance Church

2577 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs, 34688 727-943-8286, www.trinityalliancetarpon.com Sun., 10:15am

Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel

33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898, www.trinitychurchwc.com Sun., 9am (Blended), 10:45am (Traditional), & 12:34pm (NOW Praise)

Trinity Presbyterian Church

14925 North Boulevard, Tampa, 33616 813-961-5836, www.trinitytampa.com Sun., 9:30am, 11am (Bible Classes), 6pm (2nd & 4th Sun.), Wed., 6:15pm

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

Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge Church

30200 Overpass Rd., 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 Dr., Tampa, 33607 813-879-4673, www.withoutwalls.org Sun., 9am, 11am, 3pm (Spanish) Thurs., 7pm

Zephyrhills First Assembly

36322 SR 54, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-788-3490, www.zephyrhillsfirst.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm

ADD YOUR CHURCH 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: 813-915-6700 or Contact@OverflowMag.com