UPCOMING EVENTS | INSPIRATION | CHURCH LISTINGS | LOCAL SPOTLIGHT | CONTRIBUTORS | MUSIC
REAL PEOPLE. TRUE STORIES. IN YOUR BACKYARD.
OVERFLOWMAG.COM | JUNE 2012
JESUS SAVED ME!
A man's near-death experience
HEAVENLY APPROVAL ARE YOU SEEKING GOD IN YOUR BUSINESS?
A FATHER'S PROTECTION
JEREMY
ROSADO
AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST "Jer-Bear" shares his love for music and Jesus
CONTENTS EXPECTED 6 8 12 14 18 23 24 26 28 30
FROM THE EDITOR MAGNIFY HIM CONTRIBUTOR COVER SPOTLIGHT SALVATION RESOURCES HEALTHY LIFE HIGHLIGHT LOCAL CHURCHES EVENTS
FEATURED 8
SAFE IN THE SHEPHERD'S ARMS
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WHOSE BUSINESS IS IT?
The story of one successful businessman's near-death experience and how it changed his outlook on life and his faith.
Chapter Four: A short story that follows the life of a small-business owner, Darla, who learns a valuable lesson about the management of her business. This month selfishness and impulsiveness threaten a business relationship just as a personal attraction begins.
UNDER THE SHADOW OF A FATHER'S WINGS
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14
Shining for Jesus A candid interview with one of American Idol's top 13 contestants, Jeremy talks about his childhood, his faith, and his passion for a career in entertainment.
Father's Day honors dads and celebrates their strength, love, and guidance in our lives. Earthly fathers, no matter how wonderful and reliable, will let us down, but our loving Father God will not. He will always be there to shelter us in His wings.
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A FATHER'S APPROVAL
We are all created with an innate desire for a father’s approval. Learn how we receive approval from our Heavenly Father.
FROM FROM THE EDITOR EDITOR
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JUNE 2012, Issue 28 ____________________________________
Dear Friends, This month we celebrate Father’s Day – a day when we honor all the men who are fathers in our lives, whether they are our father, grandpa, husband, uncle, brother, son, friend, or Heavenly Father. We lift them up this day and thank them for being good daddies to their children and for being the protector and provider for their families. God created the family long before He created the church or the government. God gave Adam a wife and later, children. It is apparent that family is very important to God. I believe one of the reasons that God created families was so that we could experience and learn about the father-child relationship. God wanted to give us a glimpse of Him as our Father and show us through our children how much He loves us. The Lord has blessed me with a wonderful husband who is a merciful and kind father to our children. My husband allows Christ to guide him on how to be a gracious and loving daddy. These are the same characteristics that I see in my own father, who is also a Christ-follower. No person can “will” themselves to be a good parent. It takes reliance on Jesus Christ to be become a merciful, gracious, and loving parent. We are so blessed to have our Heavenly Father as our example and source of strength. We all yearn for the approval of our father. It is an inherent desire that drives us to try to earn our father's acceptance. As I grew up, I wanted to make my daddy pleased with me, so I strove to make
straight-A’s each year in school. He didn’t require this, but I just wanted to delight him. In later years, I realized that my father wasn’t as interested in what I was accomplishing as he was with me. He loves me (as his daughter) and just that alone gives him pleasure and grants me his acceptance. For believers, the same is true with our Heavenly Father. Jesus already did all the work for us on the cross, so we could become children of God and be accepted by God. As our Father God, He isn’t as interested in what we are doing as He is in us. He just wants us. Find out more concerning this topic in Chris Cherp’s article, “A Father’s Approval,” on page 20. In Kerry Johnson’s article, “Under the Shadow of a Father’s Wings,” you can learn more about God as our Heavenly Father. Whether you have an earthly father in your life or not, your Heavenly Father will always be there for you and will never let you down. If you don’t have a relationship with the Heavenly Father, then please go to our salvation section on page 18 and make Jesus your Savior today. Were you as excited about the American Idol Finale as I was? An amazing singer won, but if you are like me, you may have missed one cuddly contestant over the last several weeks of the show. Jeremy Rosado, top 13 finalist, sat down with us for a candid interview after his elimination. Read about his journey on the 11th season of American Idol and how his faith triumphed throughout the competition in Amanda Wright’s article, "Shining for Jesus," on page 14. Is Darla committed to the survival of her business? Will selfish and impulsive behavior destroy her chances for happiness? Things are heating up in Tommy Burrus’ short story, “Whose Business Is It?” You don’t want to miss this chapter on page 10. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to face death and what would go through your mind? Would you think, “Have I spent enough time with my loved ones? Do they know how much I care? Did I do everything Jesus called me to do?” Dan Shock shared his neardeath experience with Overflow in his article, "Safe in the Shepherd's Arms." He learned a lot about himself, his faith, and God's unmerited favor. You don't want to miss his story. Read it on page 8. What does Father’s Day mean to you? Share your thoughts and stories with us on Facebook. Also, we still have the Facebook contest going on. So, if you haven’t already done so, Like us and you will be entered for a chance to win a free family photo session (see ad on page 5 for more info). Happy Father’s Day to all the dads and to our Daddy God! With Love in Jesus,
Amie Cherp
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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 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/ebstock, p. 2, ©iStockphoto.com/esolla, p. 10; ©iStockphoto.com/EEI_Tony, p. 12; ©iStockphoto.com/da-kuk, p. 18; ©iStockphoto. com/manley099, p. 20; ©iStockphoto.com/4774344sean, p. 22; ©iStockphoto.com/ Renphoto, p. 24; ©Trinity College of Florida, p. 26; ©iStockphoto.com/adventtr, p. 27.
MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!
SAFE IN THE SHEPHERD'S ARMS
I
SUBMITTED BY DAN SHOCK
love dogs. In fact, I had two giant chocolate labs, Buster and Fannie Brown, who were my exercise partners. Each night, they would insist on a run. It is important to understand that I was at the top of my game at this stage of my life, both physically and financially—yet far from spiritually. I was the national director of sales for a fortune 500 company and the selfish businessman personified. I existed to have fun and to work hard. I had become idolatrous without ever understanding the definition. Don’t get me wrong, I attended church. I even went to Bible studies and was a part of a business ministry. All these were important in my checking off of various boxes on my spiritual task list. I was a human doing not a human being. That all changed on February 26th, 2006. It was a Sunday afternoon when Buster and Fannie demanded their run. But while crossing a crosswalk, as we’d done hundreds of times before, a car sped out of nowhere and raced right through the red light. It hit me at over 50 mph. Time seemed to stop as windshield glass fragmented, metal twisted, and bone shattered. My 230-pound body flew 30 feet through the air to the center median. Not only was the car totaled but so was I. I was briefly knocked unconscious, but came to with a lady lying beside me, squeezing my hand. “What’s your name? What’s your name?” she kept asking. “Daniel!” I finally blurted out. She said, “Daniel, you’ve been hit by a car so don’t try to move.” That was easy because I was pinned facedown. I laid half on and half off a curb with my right arm and leg touching the street. I couldn’t move. The lady immediately asked me if I knew Jesus and if I would like to pray? “Yes!” I said, thinking this was a good idea. I had accepted Jesus in 1994 but was ready to cover all the bases. It was only then that I realized she was giving me last rites! I asked her, “Please be honest with me. Am I going to make it?” There was a long pause as she stared right through me. Somberly, she said, “No.” I was hardly comforted. The pain was unbearable. I couldn’t feel anything below my waist. I had compound fractures everywhere. My left
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leg and arm had bones protruding out of them. My back was shattered as were my ribs and shoulder blade. I was stuck to this curb bleeding. For the first time in my life, I was cornered—truly cornered. I couldn’t talk or manipulate my way out of this situation. I was scared and in pain. I realized I was dying and yet…even at this most critical time, I found myself insanely worrying about what would happen to all my “stuff.” What would become of my job, my house, and my money—all the things the world had programmed me to fiercely compete for? My mind raced. I prayed for a Scripture to comfort me—anything that would relieve the gripping terror that was growing inside me. Nothing came. After years of Bible study, my mind was void of Scripture. I couldn’t think of a single verse! Through all this, I was fully conscience of the chaotic activity taking place around me, but I was locked to the concrete and my mind was in overdrive. Then, all of a sudden, the maddening thoughts vanished as I had a great moment of clarity. All the anxiety, fear, and terror were pushed aside and scenes from my life appeared. Specific instances of wasted opportunities to serve at church, go on mission trips, or give money to a worthy cause came to mind. The Lord was clearly showing me all the things I could have done with my life that would have mattered in eternity. It was clear that these were the things that had been prepared for me, and I had chosen not to do them. Then it hit me. I had selfishly squandered everything I had been given – thousands of dollars in income, the vast talents to motivate people, and most of all, time. I had been a poor steward of all that had been entrusted to me! My terror returned as it dawned on me that, at the age of 35, I was now about to give an account of my life to the living God, Jesus Christ. My time had come. I had thought I had plenty of time to do all these “things” for God, and now it was over, except for the reckoning. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body…” (2 Corinthians 5:10, NIV). I was going to show up empty handed. I would be saved, but everything I had done was meaningless because none of it had been done for Christ (1 Corinthians 3:15). What a sad day this would be. How much of eternity would I spend thinking about my insignificant earthly race and poor stewardship? “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24, NIV).
Jesus had become my Savior in 1994, and now our first faceto-face conversation would be about what I did with everything He had given me. Where was the proof of His lordship in my life? From my church attendance? My spiritual head knowledge? All this time my ladder had been leaning against the wrong building! I feared that it was too late. The LifeFlight helicopter took me to Tampa General. The searing pain was beyond belief, and I agonized over these clear revelations of entering eternity. It wasn’t until we were airborne that my cries for a Scripture were heard. Psalm 23 unfurled before my eyes and I read, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want…Yea, though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me…” (KJV). I lost consciousness knowing that the Lord had me in His hands. I woke from a coma four days later with one of my brothers at my side. He leaned over close to my face and said the most marvelous words my ears had ever heard, “You’re going to live!” If I hadn’t been in a body cast, I would’ve surely danced and
months and years of recovery, He counseled me directly, sometimes in morning Scripture study or with mature believers. I came to understand Him as my Healer when my broken back was healed at a simple Wednesday night church service over a year after the accident. The searing pain had finally gone, never to return. I came to know Him as I completely surrendered my life to His control. I learned that Jesus didn’t want what I could do for Him. He simply wanted me! I’ve learned that life is, in fact, all His Grace (unmerited favor) as He pours out immeasurable amounts for my free
jumped for joy. Waves of emotion poured over me. I knew the hourglass of my life had run out and the Lord had turned it over, purchasing my life and giving it back to me. I cried for a long time as I realized that I had been spared an eternity of regret and loss of any eternal rewards. The recovery and rehab were difficult. I was in a wheelchair for five months. Subsequent surgeries to repair and replace titanium hardware in the hopes of saving my leg were fraught with suffering and much pain. I lost everything in that accident. It was the worst thing that has ever happened to me, and yet, strangely, I can declare it to be the best thing as well. I was transformed in the twinkling of an eye from a self-centered, manipulative businessman to a jar of clay—a vessel that the Lord could finally use. When I had no job or pressures of the daily grind, I finally listened to what my pastor had been teaching me for over a decade. Start your day with a morning quiet time, a daily devotional. It was then that the Lord began to speak to me. It was then that I started to understand my personal encounter with the Living God. Jesus became my Shepherd of Psalm 23. I got to know Him personally, learning of His love and devotion to each one in His flock. I started to hear His voice, and He became my wonderful Counselor through this tragic event. Throughout the many
spending to impact others for Christ. I’ve learned that we only have a short time here, and the race we are called to run must be purposeful. We can have an eternal impact, if we seek to do so in His power as He works through us. Jesus saved me, and now it's all about Him. Thank You, Lord, for giving me this eternal perspective. And thank You, Lord, for allowing Buster and Fannie to be faster than I was. ■ Dan Shock attends Calvary Chapel St. Pete and is the president of RedRock Leadership. He is engaged to his sweetheart, Sara, and they plan to get married this month. If you would like to subscribe to Dan’s daily devotional or contact him, please email him at dbs88@hotmail.com or visit his website (www.danshock.net).
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June 2012 Love+Faith+Hope
WHOSE BUSINESS IS IT? CHAPTER FOUR A SHORT STORY BY TOMMY BURRUS
If you missed the previous three chapters of this story, you can find them at www.OverflowMag.com in the March - May 2012 issues.
IT
had been a very good day which I would never have predicted when I woke up that morning. I was dreading lunch with my mother and had gotten a phone call from the new business consultant that I had reluctantly hired. Surprisingly, both had been encouraging. That afternoon had been unusually busy at the shop. There were actual customers. The sales figures for just that day were more than the shop had made up until that point. Things were beginning to turn around for me. I closed the store and locked up. There was an art show near the university. I decided that I would have time to swing home, change clothes, and still make it. After all, I didn't want to waste the night sitting alone at home while feeling so upbeat. The next morning, Mark Malloy was waiting for me outside my shop. He lifted his hand and waved, and I noticed that his cheeks dimpled when he smiled. I bounced up to the sidewalk. I almost didn't recognize my own voice as I spoke. "Good morning! Isn't this just the most beautiful day?" I asked in an almost sing-song lilt. "Good morning! Yes, it is," Mark replied, and his smile grew larger and the dimples
were more pronounced. Even his green eyes were smiling and, for a moment, I was captivated by his smile. I realized that I was staring, and I was immediately embarrassed.
to me. I was flustered and could feel the blood whooshing in my ears and bringing color to my cheeks. "I'm so sorry," I said without looking up. "I can't seem to find my key," but with those words, the spell seemed to have passed, and I found the key. I quickly inserted it in the lock and twisted. With a thunk, the bolt disengaged, and
“I'm not going to ask if you sought God's guidance...” I tried to recover but I fumbled with my keys. For some reason, my mind had disengaged, and I couldn't remember which key went to the glass door. I just kept shuffling through the keys but none of them seemed familiar
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I pulled open the door. I saw Mark's face through the glass door as he politely held it for me. I offered a quick smile and fled inside and began switching on the lights. I set my purse down on my desk and went behind the counter eager to put a little distance between myself and Mark. He was standing in the center of my showroom, and I was hoping that he hadn't noticed my discomfort. What is going on
with me today? I cleared my throat and tried for a casual affect. "I didn't realize you were coming by this morning," I said, "but I'm really happy you are here. The store did really well yesterday." "Wonderful. That's really great," Mark said. There was that dimpled smile again. Oh, brother! "And I made the most spectacular find last night," I continued. "Oh?" As Mark uttered that one syllable, the smile and dimples quickly receded. "There is an artist that makes these figurines. When you see them, you instantly feel the emotion they are conveying," I said. "Darla, I'm sure they are splendid, but now really isn't the time to be increasing your inventory." His words hit me like a slap in the face. "Oh, it's nothing to worry about. I don't even have to pay anything up front," I said with a dismissive tone. "Please tell me you didn't sign anything," Mark said, and I could feel the heat of anger rising up my neck and face. "Why shouldn't I?" I asked more loudly than I had intended. I saw Mark wince and his hands came up as he made a calming motion and took a half step back. When he spoke, his tone was controlled and even. "Darla, this is your business, and you had some reason for encouragement yesterday, but there is still a lot of work that we have to do to get you where you need to be. I wish you had discussed this decision with me first. As your consultant, I can help you if you will let me." I tried to bring myself under control, but his calm manner only further infuriated me. I can't believe how this guy had ruined my cheerful mood. I took a deep breath and said, "Listen, I didn't want to hire you at all. You don't seem to appreciate my process. Yes, my business is struggling, and I appreciate what you've done with the landlord and the vendor. I do! But I've got to do things my way." Mark lowered his hands and shook his head, his lips turned down on one side. He said, "Ms. Hoinz, I'm not going to ask if you sought God's guidance about signing that contract last night. I am going to ask you to pray about whether or not we should continue our arrangement. I'll await your decision." Mark nodded once and turned. He proceeded to walk out the door. As I watched him go, I couldn't decide whether I wanted to throw something at him or chase after him and beg his forgiveness. â– Look for the next chapter in July's issue of Overflow. This story is fictional and just being used as a means to teach. The names, characters, places, businesses, and events were made up or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to real people, places, businesses, or events is completely coincidental.
CONTRIBUTOR
Under the Shadow of a FATHER'S WINGS BY KERRY JOHNSON
“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1a (NKJV)
T
he mockingbird dove through the air, grey feathers sleek and body arched, cutting blue from sky and shadow from light. Back and forth, bold and purposed, determined white-striped wings chasing away danger and protecting what lay just below. A nest, guarded by the mother bird, drooped through the thick branches of an oak tree. It was overflowing with life, brimming with tomorrow’s promise. The small mockingbird dove at the eggthieving crow, eventually frustrating the larger black bird. As it veered off in another direction, I thought about Father’s Day, the day we celebrate the protectors and providers of the family. We remember those who keep out familial predators and secure our hearts with the assurance of their love – men whose bear hugs and gruff words of affection are well-placed life preservers during life’s difficult storms. Father’s Day honors husbands, dads, stepfathers, grandpas, brothers, uncles, and sons. Fathers provide constancy in our lives, strength tempered with love, and guidance seasoned with wisdom. A father’s job description is never-ending: personal support system, character engineer, financial advisor, human-training wheels, Lego builder, doll house creator, academic mentor, prayer warrior, tickling teaser, wrestling partner, sports coach, life instructor, and fountain of wise counsel. As I watched the acrobatic mockingbird’s victorious swoop back to the oak tree, I thought about the vital place fathers have in our lives. They’re the backbone of the family, leading, loving,
and nurturing future generations with their examples of faith. We long to know who they are so we can understand and decide who we want to become. “The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him” (Proverbs 20:7, NKJV). For some, though, Father’s Day is a painful reminder of a deep void in their lives or perhaps a sad day marking the memory of a father no longer on earth. Yet, Christ-followers are blessed with two fathers—an earthly father and a Heavenly Father. God’s Word is sprinkled with reminders of our Heavenly Father’s undeniable, unchanging love for us. Our loving Father God “blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3, NKJV). His “abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3, NKJV). We’re promised a place in God’s family through faith in Jesus! “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God” (Ephesians 2:19, NKJV). When you place your faith in Jesus Christ, you become part of the “household of God.” And if you grew up without a loving earthly father, rest assured, your Father God loves you more than you know. His Word promises that He will not leave you or forsake you (Joshua 1:5). Never doubt the love of the God, Who is our “Everlasting Father” (Isaiah 9:6). Still not convinced? Worried that you’re not worthy of the Father’s love? Fix your gaze securely
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on the cross of Jesus Christ, where our Heavenly Father gave the greatest sacrifice through His only Son. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16, NKJV). God provided the ultimate family inheritance through faith in Jesus—an invitation to each person—allowing us to become heirs to His Kingdom. Earthly fathers, no matter how wonderful and reliable, will let us down, but our loving Father God will not. He is our Maker and Redeemer, our Resting Place, our Wonderful Counselor, our Refuge, and the Rock of Ages. Jesus Christ is our assurance of God’s love and the key for eternal life in His family. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for sheltering us in Your Wings and making a way for us through Jesus.
“Fathers provide constancy in our lives, strength tempered with love, and guidance seasoned with wisdom.” “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:14-15, NKJV). ■
FEATURED MAGNIFY HIM COVER SPOTLIGHT SUBMITTED BY YOU!
SHINING FOR JESUS
Confessions of an American Idol Finalist
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16, NKJV).
E
very season, millions of viewers tune in to watch American Idol. It's the reality contest that Americans just can't seem to get enough of. Why? The talent that the show discovers across this great nation is staggering. With the nicest judges in the history of the show, it makes it a pleasure to watch. You get a glimpse into the lives of real people, fighting for their chance to live out their dreams on national television. It's the contestants, like 20-year-old Jeremy Rosado of Valrico, that make American Idol a hit in households across the United States. "Jer-Bear" captured the hearts of Idol judges and quickly claimed thousands of fans with his humble attitude, sweet spirit, and velvety smooth voice. Jeremy was one of the finalists that shined for Jesus each time he walked on stage. He didn’t have to sing Christian music to let the audience know he was a believer. Throughout his time on the show, Jeremy effortlessly represented Christ in his character, in his actions, in his smile, and especially through his performances. You may be one of the many who fell in love with this cuddly contestant and were sad to see him go. Although Jeremy's journey on American Idol ended at number 13, you can rest assured that Stevie Wonder’s Ribbons in the Sky is not the last song you'll hear out of him – his career has just begun.
BORN TO SING Not many people know exactly what they want to do for the rest of their lives at five years of age, but Jeremy did. He said, “I realized [singing] was everything I wanted to do.” Perhaps his innate sense
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of purpose came from the miracle he experienced as a baby. Jeremy was born in Queens, New York, with a potentially life-threatening condition. Test results revealed that Jeremy’s liver was not functioning properly, and they worried that he may need to have a transplant. Jeremy explained that his mother has always been a strong believer. When she found out the news, she faithfully prayed, “Lord, if you heal my baby, I will make sure that he honors You every day for the rest of his life.” Some days later, when Jeremy’s parents were visiting him at the hospital, the staff mysteriously misplaced the results of the liver tests in his chart. The doctor ordered new tests on Jeremy’s liver, and this time the results came back normal. God had answered his mother’s prayer. “I believe God sent an angel down to get the results from the chart and then He healed me. I truly believe it. He is the reason I am alive,” Jeremy said.
BY AMANDA WRIGHT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: STEPHEN THERIAULT stephen.theriault.photo@gmail.com
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“I believe I came out of the womb already saved,” Jeremy jokingly said, smiling. He gave his life to the Lord at a very young age. God definitely had a plan for him from the beginning. The Lord not only gave Jeremy the gift of life, but He also blessed him with an angelic voice—one that Jeremy dedicates to worshiping the Lord. “God is my everything and music is my life,” he remarked. Jeremy sings all day long and is constantly smiling. He’s joyful for the gifts God has given him and shares them with his church, Life Changing International Ministry, each Sunday morning.
IDOL DREAMS At the age of nine, Jeremy watched Kelly Clarkson win the first season of American Idol and was captivated. He dreamed of one day performing on the American Idol stage. That hope stayed with him when Jeremy and his family moved to the Brandon area the following year. He continued to watch American Idol and never missed an episode. Singing came naturally to him and was a part of his everyday life. Unsurprisingly, Jeremy shared, “During the commercial breaks, I would get up and audition for everybody who was watching [the show with me] and say, ‘Do you think I could do this one day?’”
"Father, I pray that they give me another chance to sing for the world. Give me the favor of God that they would just put me through."
He convinced his family to drive him to Jacksonville for his first American Idol audition almost six years ago. Jeremy didn’t get his chance then, but he continued to try out for the show every season after that, traveling as far away as New Jersey. Jeremy refused to give up his dream. “I don’t believe God puts something in the heart so strongly for no reason,” he explained. “I don’t think I could do anything else for the rest of my life.” Jeremy pressed on despite the enormous odds of ever being able to land a spot on the show. His spirit led him to continue on in his pursuit. Then last July, Jeremy’s dream came true when he finally received his golden ticket in Savannah, Georgia. That was only the beginning of a long road to make it to the live shows. Television can only give viewers a tiny glimpse into the grueling process that the contestants endure. Jeremy explained that over 100,000 people sang for the chance to make it to Hollywood for the next round of auditions, but only around 300 singers made it through. Jeremy was among the bunch of wide-eyed go-getters ready to take on the world with his love for music. Contestants worked up to 15 hours a day singing, practicing, and learning music all for a 2-minute shot in front of the judges. “American Idol was one of the hardest experiences I’ve ever gone through in my life – physically and emotionally,” Jeremy revealed, but God carried him through. Every performance had to be stellar to move on to the next round, and Jeremy continued to deliver exactly what the judges were looking for to advance in the competition. “I believe this time was the time God had for me. It was funny how I auditioned so many times and never made it, but this time every round was like 1-2-3, yes, yes, and yes. There was no hesitation,” Jeremy said.
ON STAGE During the final judgment round in Las Vegas, Jeremy blew the judges away with his best performance yet, singing Carrie Underwood’s I Know You Won’t. His astounding voice and range earned him a spot in the top 25. His next performance for the nation’s vote didn’t get him into the top 10, but God wasn’t finished yet. Of the 15 remaining contestants, six were selected to sing one more time for the Wild Card round. The judges would choose three of the six to advance to the next week. Jeremy shared what he was going through as the singers waited to hear the judges’ selections, “That Wild Card round…my faith was
tested. When I got cut, I didn’t believe it. I told myself, you better sing like you have never sung before. [Then] I was just praying, ‘Father, I pray that they give me another chance to sing for the world. Give me the favor of God that they would just put me through.’” Jeremy was selected as one of the six to sing, and he performed Underwood’s song again. His performance was real and heart wrenching. You could see just how much he wanted to be there. He choked up at the end, and I don’t think there was a dry eye across America. Everyone was rooting for Jeremy, especially Idol judge Jennifer Lopez (who saw something very special in Jeremy and supported him throughout the competition). He thanked the judges for allowing him the opportunity to perform, and he thanked the Lord, too. After the six singers performed, Jeremy was one of the three selected to join the remaining ten contestants, forming the top 13. It was a very emotional moment for Jeremy and everyone watching. He dropped to his knees crying and thanking God. “Looking back at it, I think if I would have made it through that day [in the top 10], people would not have known who I was. It’s like God did that for a reason. He let me get that moment,” Jeremy said.
SHINING BRIGHTLY God’s presence during this season of American Idol was more apparent
than ever before. Several of the top 13 contestants revealed their faith and proudly gave glory to God on the air. Jeremy shared that he became friends with several strong believers, including Heejun, Colton, Phillip, and Joshua, among others. They would gather on Sundays for prayer meetings in Heejun’s room for the purpose of “recognizing that we knew God was the only reason we had come this far and the reason we were there,” Jeremy said. It's a great reminder that, in every profession, God sends His children into every facet of society to reveal His glory to all people. Everyone has a purpose and Jeremy didn’t hesitate to fulfill his. Whenever provided the opportunity, he unashamedly shared his faith with other singers. When some of the contestants would say things about the others, instead of joining in, he would say, “God Bless ‘em.” That was his signature. No matter how someone performed on stage, Jeremy was constantly standing to show his fellow contestants support by clapping and cheering them on. The judges even noticed how nice Jeremy was to everyone. That was Jesus shining through. Overflow told Jeremy how impressed we were with his personality on the show because he exemplified Christ in his character and was a positive light for other contestants. He said, “That’s exactly what I wanted to be when I went there. My goal was just to be me. I didn’t want to be different, and I wasn’t afraid that [the producers] weren’t going to show me because of that. I was actually excited that they would display my faith.” His faith brought hope to his fans. Jeremy told of a fan letter he received from a woman who had lost her desire for music due to an abusive relationship. “She knew that God used me that night as I sang for the Wild Card. She knew that it was the power of God through that song that touched her life and brought back her desire and passion for music. She says it’s back now, and she will forever be grateful to God for using me on American Idol,” Jeremy explained. Jer-Bear’s mom told him, “If that was what it was for, to touch one life, then it was all worth it.” Oh, how right she is! Jeremy definitely made an impact on his fans, and he undoubtedly made an impact on the other contestants as well. He said
"I give God all the glory for giving me the favor to have come this far. I believe 100% that He is the only reason I've come this far." that he was always in prayer, as much as he could be, no matter what they were doing. He would find a quiet moment to talk to God or to read his Bible. Jeremy shared that during Hollywood week he had brought along a special Bible to read. Another contestant saw it and said he wished he had his Bible with him. Jeremy offered it to him and encouraged him to keep it. During that same week, the contestants took the stage in groups of ten to sing a song a cappella (where they could be immediately eliminated after the song). Jeremy said that the contestant he gave the Bible to brought it with him to this round of the competition. “Backstage right before they walked out, every single person in his line passed that Bible from one to another, so they were all able to read something from the Word right before they went out.” Jeremy felt so blessed that God used him to bring His Word to such a place as the American Idol stage. “God has given me my dream,” Jeremy said.
PLANS FOR A FUTURE The white bracelet (inscribed with Jeremiah 29:11) donned by many Idol contestants this year was a gift from Colton Dixon, Jeremy said. Jeremy still wears it today because it’s a reminder of his time on the show and it’s also his favorite scripture. Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” God certainly had good plans for Jeremy on this 11th season of American Idol, and His plans to give Jeremy a future in Christian music have just begun to unfold. Jeremy said, “He brought me this far for a reason.” Currently, he’s been making appearances and doing shows around the Tampa Bay area, but now that the American Idol season is over, Jeremy will be able to move forward with his career. He couldn’t share any details with us yet about his future plans, but we believe that a recording contract and album are definitely in his future. Jeremy said of his musical style, “I’m a worshipper.” The biggest musical influence in his life is Francesca Battistelli, and Jeremy described his own voice as a mixture between Adele and Israel Houghton. He wants to draw inspiration from these artists and his experience on American Idol and create a genuine worship album. His passion for entertainment doesn’t end there though; Jeremy sees himself in television, in movies, and leading worship
concerts across the world. “That’s the huge dream,” he said. “Speak those things that are not right now as though they were. I’m believing.” Jeremy’s reference to Romans 4:17 reveals his faith in God’s Word and in God’s ability to do anything. Really, Jeremy is living proof that our Father God will manifest the desires of our hearts for His glory. “I give God all the glory for giving me the favor to have come this far. I believe 100% that He is the only reason I’ve come this far,” Jeremy said. Right now you can download Ribbons in the Sky as sung by Jeremy from iTunes. Follow him on Twitter (@JRosadoAI11) and Facebook (facebook.com/ JRosadoAI11) to find out what’s next for this American Idol finalist. God has blessed him with amazing talent, and his fans are anxiously waiting to see what he'll do next. Jeremy asked us to leave our readers with a word from his heart: “Whoever is reading this, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love and support. It means the world to me, and I am so grateful. It changed my life.” Glory! ■
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June 2012 Love+Faith+Hope
MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED SALVATION BY YOU!
YOU'RE WORTH IT “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loves us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).” Ephesians 2:4-5 (NKJV)
M
any of us have felt unworthy and your Heavenly Father. He created you and He unlovable at some point in our lives. loves you (read John 3:16-17). You may even feel an emptiness inside I encourage you to listen to the lyrics of that's unexplainable – a void that can't be filled Mikeschair's "Someone Worth Dying For." This song with things this world has to offer. How can paints a beautiful picture of this very idea – that you believe that Almighty God sent you're worth it. No matter what has His only Son to die for you? Why do happened, or will happen, you are you deserve grace and forgiveness? worth it to God. The chorus says, Why would anyone, let alone Jesus, "…Jesus, help me believe that I am die for you? someone worth dying for." Another Many places in the Bible verse goes on to say, "You're worth speak of God's unconditional it, you can't earn it; Yeah, the cross love for mankind. Specifically in has proven; That you're sacred and Ephesians 2, Paul describes God's blameless; Your life has purpose." mercy and love for us and explains Once you understand that God that God made a way to see past loves you just as you are, you can A Beautiful Life our faults and our sins. He found a receive His grace through Christ. If way to bridge us back to Him and you want to find meaning in this life, www.mikeschair.com save us. That bridge is Jesus Christ. turn to Jesus. He has all the answers. Almighty God thinks you're worth Let Him show you that you are dying for because He wants to be someone worth dying for. ■
MIKESCHAIR
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SALVATION PRAYER 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!
A FATHER'S APPROVAL BY CHRIS CHERP
R
egardless of what some people may say, we all want a father’s approval. We are created with an innate desire for this type of acceptance. Sons want to hear that their father is proud of them, and daughters want to hear that they will always be daddy's little girl. It is the recognition from a father figure that fuels the peace and success in our lives. Even if we don’t have a relationship with our earthly fathers or if they are no longer with us here on earth, there is still good news; we can all receive this approval from our Heavenly Father at any time. Although we can receive this support from our Father God, we often have trouble believing that He is approving of us. Matthew 3:17 shows us an example of God demonstrating His approval of Jesus before He even performed any miracles: "And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased'" (NKJV). Jesus came to earth and took the form of man to become our representative to Father God. Since Jesus is our representation, if He received our Father God’s approval, then that same approval is ours, too (1 Corinthians 1:30). "To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has made us accepted in the Beloved" (Ephesians 1:6, NKJV). All we have to do to receive this acceptance (or approval) is to believe in Jesus and accept Him as our Savior. It is because of Jesus and His perfect and completed work at the cross that we are able to be in right standing with our Father God and to receive His approval. For a long time, I was frustrated with my relationship with the Creator of all things. It was simply because I didn’t know that I could be accepted by God through Jesus, without having to live up to His standards. The more I tried to live a perfect life, the more I failed and became guilt conscious. Because of this dogma, I thought that God was ashamed of me. The last thing I wanted in my life was to be a hypocrite while carrying the guilt of not pleasing my Heavenly Father because of my inability to live a perfect, sin-free life. When we make Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior we are immediately washed in His blood, making us righteous and highly favored (here and now). “For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness
will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:17, NKJV). Notice that righteousness is a gift from Jesus and not something that we need to earn. We all mess up at one time or another but that’s why God sent Jesus. Jesus paid for every sin we’ll ever commit in our lives at the cross. It is through Jesus that we can be in right
Our relationship with God affects our confidence in His approval of us. The more time we spend with our Heavenly Father, the more intimate we become with Him and the more confident we are in His approval of us. This Father’s Day let's spend more time with our Heavenly Father and give Him the best gift ever: the gift of appreciation for all that He did to allow us to have a relationship with Him, in which we are eternally approved.
“It is because of Jesus and His perfect and completed work at the cross that we are able to be in right standing with our Father God and to receive His approval.” standing with God, even when we mess up because God has made us accepted in the Beloved, Jesus. All we have to do is receive the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness from Jesus. Through the use of our faith this way, we are showing our appreciation of what Jesus did for us at the cross while being conscious of our everlasting approval from our Heavenly Father.
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By doing this, we will begin to see our relationship with Him blossom into a friendship, which will manifest into a guilt-free, joyful life. The best part is that the fruits from this type of relationship with our Heavenly Father will make us reign in life (Romans 5:17) and leave an imprint on the hearts of those around us. His approval will give us what we need to live the best life possible all for His glory. Happy Father’s Day, Daddy God! Glory! ■
DADDIES & PANCAKES What Does Father's Day Mean to You?
Share yours with us at: facebook.com/OverflowMagazine
I
am so blessed; God has given me five wonderful children. When my children were younger, I loved making pancakes for them in the morning and talking with them about their hopes and dreams. Even today, looking into their eyes, I see the awesome things that God has planned for their lives. My heart is so full because God has given me such a wonderful blessing. My list of things that I enjoy most on Father's Day is short: I love to speak with each of my children, and I love spending time with them. They are all grown now, but each has given me grandchildren to love. I still cherish spending time with my children in the morning, sharing pancakes with them. You can ask my daughters. They still ask daddy to make them pancakes when we get together for family gatherings, and now my grandchildren have started asking for grandpa’s pancakes. I love seeing their eyes light up.
I like to celebrate the simple thing of just being with my children or speaking with them if we cannot be in the same place on Father's Day. I get to enjoy a man's greatest blessing in life next to his wife, the children that God has entrusted me with. So for me, Father's Day is special because I get to recount my blessings from God. I get to praise Him for loving me so much that He gave His only Son for me, so I could be so blessed in life. Thank You, Jesus! -- MARC, Father of Amie & Amanda
Father’s Day is a great day for me to honor my daddy and a reminder of how blessed I am to have my daddy as my father. I have a special bond with him. I am daddy’s little girl, even now in my thirties. My father has a special way of encouraging me and guiding me. He always has the right words to say at the right time, bringing clarity to any situation. I cherish the time we spend together and the conversations we have about life. He has such a great strength and calming peace exuding from him, and he can always ease any worry that I may have. The love, peace, and strength flowing from him come from Jesus Christ. My father lives his life for Christ and has taught me to do the same. I will be forever grateful for my father’s love, support, protection,
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and guidance. But, most of all, Daddy, I will be eternally grateful to you for pointing me to Jesus and showing me a glimpse of our loving Heavenly Father. Thank You, Father God, for giving me the best daddy a child could ask for. Happy Father’s Day to you, Daddy, and to our Gracious Heavenly Father! -- AMIE
For me, Father's Day is a day to remember a blessed childhood in a home full of activity, laughter, Saturday morning pancakes, and lots and lots of love. My daddy was my first hero, the first man I ever loved, and the first person who told me about Jesus. He was a constant I could always count on. I have so many fond memories of my father gently guiding me in the right direction, but with enough room to make my own decisions. Whether those decisions were good or bad, he was always there to share in the tears of disappointment or the shrieks of joy. He showed me (and continues to show me) unconditional love and a merciful kindness – a loving-kindness that I came to know in my Heavenly Father. He taught me to play softball and annihilate an algebra equation, but he also taught me about integrity and showing kindness to others. My daddy exemplifies Christ in his life and in his love for my mother. Thank you, Daddy, for being the best father and leader of our family that you could be. Thank you for showing me that Jesus is alive in your heart. Your life's path points to Jesus Christ and I'm following right behind you. -- AMANDA
RESOURCES FOR YOUR SPIRIT
LISTEN
2 PETER 1:2 (NKJV) "Grace and peace be multiplied to you in knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord."
SHANE & SHANE
The One You Need www.ShaneAndShane.com
READ
UNMERITED FAVOR By Joseph Prince
■ Find it at: www.JosephPrince.com "God wants you to succeed in every area of your life! And with His presence in your life, you can. His grace or unmerited favor can swing open doors of opportunities and place you at the right place at the right time for His blessings. Even if you lack the necessary qualifications, His unmerited favor can propel you forward. Discover in Unmerited Favor how everything that you touch can be blessed and how you can enjoy good success. Learn about what Jesus has accomplished on the cross for you, and how, through His perfect sacrifice, you can lead an overcoming life as God's beloved."
MAT KEARNEY
Young Love www.MatKearney.com
"It's time for you to stop depending on your own efforts to succeed, and to start depending on Jesus and Jesus alone for every success. Start living out the dreams that God has birthed in your heart today!"
JIMMY NEEDHAM Clear the Stage
www.JimmyNeedham.com
BROWSE
CROSSWALK.COM The Intersection of Faith and Life
PASSION Here for You
www.268Store.com
■ Find it at: www.CrossWalk.com "Our aim is to offer the freshest and most compelling biblically-based content to Christians who take seriously their relationship with Christ. Crosswalk.com is built around four primary content areas – Faith, Family, Fun, and Community. Each category is further subdivided into areas of significance to many Christians, including Bible Study, Devotionals, Marriage, Parenting, Music, etc. Within this framework, we work hard to provide timely, relevant, lifeenhancing material from qualified, respected Christian sources, including major ministries such as Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, The Bible Answerman and Insight For Living."
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June 2012 Love+Faith+Hope
HEALTHY LIFE
WE'LL GET TOGETHER THEN
A
nyone that has heard the song, "Cats in the Cradle," by Harry Chapin knows what a heart wrenching song it truly is. The lyrics of the song portray the life of a young boy who just wants to spend time with his father. Unfortunately, his father is always too busy with work to spend time with his son and always responds by saying, "I don’t know when, but we'll get together then son; you know we'll have a good time then." As the song unfolds, the boy grows up and the father retires, finally having time to spend with his boy. Sadly, the son is now too busy with work to spend any time with his father. He replies to his father's requests to spend time together with, "I don’t know when, but we'll get together then dad; you know we'll have a good time then." The first time I heard this song, I couldn't help but put myself in the position of the boy who always wanted to spend time with his father, only to be disappointed time and time again. I thought that I was silly for thinking I shared a similar experience with the boy in the song. Although, when I went to my own dad to try and do something with him, he could not due to a heavy workload. Any good father has to work to provide for his family. The challenge is in knowing how to balance our time with work and family. At times, we can become so success driven that we lose sight of what really matters in life. One day, I had the realization that my children's world is made up of very few people and that I am at the center of it. Our children, especially at a young age, look to us for examples of how to do this thing we call life. If we show little interest in our families and in spending time together, then our children might also grow up placing little importance on family time. This is exactly what happened with the father and son in the song. Due to my experience with my own father, the impact that the song had on me, and a revelation from the Lord, I am now able to recognize the importance of spending quality time with my children, regardless of how busy I become with work. I understand that the window of time when my children look up to me as their role model is potentially brief. But the choices I make
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in that window, choosing quality time with my children over work, will have a lifelong impact on my relationship with my children. I believe the decision to spend
or even a stage dad at ballet recitals for your daughter. I will be a part of my children’s lives, and I encourage you to do the same. Children grow up in the blink of an eye. The choices we, as parents, make during that
“The next time our children ask us to color, play, or even go swimming with them, let's make a point of putting them at the top of our priority list and rearranging our busy schedules to spend time with them.” time with them will influence their choices to spend quality time with their own children as they grow up. The next time our children ask us to color, play, or even go swimming with them, let's make a point of putting them at the top of our priority list and rearranging our busy schedules to spend time with them. When the day comes, make time to be a part of their extracurricular activities, whether it's as a coach
time will shape the relationships we have with our children after our busy schedules slow down. The values that we instill in them today will be left as an inheritance for our grandchildren and great grandchildren to come. I challenge all fathers to rearrange their schedules and get together with your children now; I know you will have a good time now! ■
HIGHLIGHT
TRAINING LEADERS To Change the World
T
rinity College of Florida has a history and a vision for changing lives—a history that reaches back eighty years and a vision that reaches forward into eternity. The original campus in Temple Terrace was once a lovely hotel, but stood empty when the college founder, Dr. William T. Watson, discovered the property in 1932. Dr. Watson knew immediately that the deserted resort would make “a good Bible School.” He believed young men and women needed knowledge of the Bible, an understanding of the Christian faith, and practical skills with which to serve humanity and impact the world for Jesus Christ. Within two weeks, Dr. Watson had struck a deal with the property owner that required “no down payment, no interest, and the first payment due in ten years.” Trinity College initially focused on training pastors and missionaries, but the college has continued to expand the courses offered to meet the ever-changing needs of their students. Trinity College is an accredited, interdenominational, evangelical Christian college. Trinity College’s most famous alumnus, the Reverend Billy Graham, graduated in 1940. Reverend Graham’s impact in the national and international arena
BY ANNE CHILDERS
of Christianity is only part of the collective legacy of Trinity. In the last academic year (2010-2011), thirty-seven denominations, five states, and one foreign country were represented on campus. An atmosphere of tolerance and acceptance continues to provide a positive foundation for study and academic and personal growth. Additionally, high school juniors and seniors may enroll at Trinity College through accepted dual enrollment programs. These days, the college occupies a new location in the growing community of Trinity, Florida, in Pasco County. The new campus allows students easy access to recreation and ministerial work in a larger, more urban setting. Culture, performing arts, and employment opportunities are readily available, and Florida’s pristine Gulf beaches are only minutes away. The current college president, Dr. Mark T. O’Farrell, is the man behind the scenes, but also in front of the positive growth and energy at Trinity College. Dr. O’Farrell grew up in a family that believed in Christianity, but didn’t always actively practice their faith. He knew it was possible to find peace, joy, and hope through Jesus Christ, and he made his own personal acceptance of Christ as Lord while still in his teens. After high school, he attended Jacksonville University for one semester, but then transferred to Columbia Bible College (now Columbia International University) in Columbia, South Carolina.
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Dr. O’Farrell wanted to share the Good News of salvation through teaching and preaching as a church pastor. After a period of time as an assistant pastor in Macon, Georgia, Dr. O’Farrell pastored his first church in Belle Glade, Florida, for ten years. He accepted the position of president at Trinity College in 2005. It is a role that allows him to continue to spread the Good News through teaching and preaching. Dr. O’Farrell’s mission for Trinity College is to train leaders to positively transform lives in our changing world through Jesus Christ. He believes there is “no greater fulfillment than in knowing God and making Him known to others.” His philosophy is “there is no substitute for intimacy with God.” He shares this belief with a personal formula: I + I = GI (Intimacy with God, plus Integrity with people, equals Godly Influence). Under Dr. O’Farrell’s leadership, Trinity College teaches Christ-centered formulas for a godly life. Trinity College offers courses for full-time and part-time students as well as online studies. Programs of study include Bachelor of Arts degrees, Associate of Arts degrees, and certificate programs for non-degree seeking students. There are also classes for working adults along with financial aid programs for those who need it. All classes and programs of study reflect Trinity College’s core values and mantra of “changing lives to change the world.” Trinity College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. For additional information on attending this life-changing institution, please call 727-376-6911 or visit trinitycollege.edu. You can also see Trinity College’s ad on page 2.
LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES Agape Faith Fellowship Church
6805 U.S. Hwy 301 S., Riverview, 33578 813-571-9314 www.agapefaithfc.org Sun., 10:30am
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
Bethel Church
1510 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33603 813-238-2348, www.betheltampa.org Sun., 10:10am, Wed., 7pm
Branch of Christ Ministries
27223 SR 56, Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-435-1469 Sun., 10am
Candlewood Community Church
21418 Carson Dr., Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-956-1541, www.candlewoodfl.org Sun., 10:30am
Christ Apostolic Church Tampa
10620 Henderson Rd., Tampa, 33625 813-899-2464, www.cactampa.org Sun., 9am (Bible Study), 10am (Worship)
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
Cornerstone Presbyterian Church 17520 Marsh Road, Lutz, 33558 813-962-3584, www.cpclutz.org Sun., 9:30am (Sunday School) & 11am (Worship), Wed., 7pm
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
610 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-785-4519, www.epistleofchrist.org Sun., 9:45am, Thurs., 7pm
Extraordinary Life Church
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
5808 Lynn Rd., Tampa, 33624 813-610-6554
Meeting at Veterans Elementary School 26940 Progress Pkwy., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-406-8963, www.growlifechurch.com Sun., 9:30am & 11:15am
Sun., 9:45am, 12:30pm (Spanish)
Heritage Church
www.myextraordinarylifechurch.com
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 Church of College Hill 3838 North 29th St., Tampa, 33610 813-248-6600 www.fbcch.org Sun., 7:30am, 10am, & 12pm
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)
28 OverflowMag.com June 2012
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
JTB Ministries/The Daily Word
38621 Calvin Ave., Zephyrhills, 33542 423-333-9848, www.jtbministries.com Sat., 6pm
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, 33619 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
Reality Church Tampa
Manhattan Baptist Church
Remix Church
730 W. Robertson St., Brandon, 33511 813-458-6252, www.lightcm.org Sun., 10am, Tues.& Wed., 7pm
4300 South Manhattan Ave., Tampa, 33611 813-831-1951, www.manhattanbaptist.org Sun., 9:30am (Sunday School), 10:45am, & 6pm, 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 813-971-6961 Sun., 9am, 11am, & 6:30pm, Wed., 6:30pm
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
Northwest Tampa Church of God 5131 Gunn Highway, Tampa, 33624 813-961-7278, www.nwtcog.cc Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm
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
Palma Ceia United Methodist Church 3723 W. Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa, 33629 813-837-1541, www.palmaceiaumc.org Sun., 8:30am, 9:15am, & 10:30am
Real Life Church
6821 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33634 813-243-2333, www.thereallifechurch.com Sun., 8:30am (Bible Study), 10am (Worship)
1000 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-228-8700, www.realitychurchtampa.com Sun., 10am
Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel
33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898, www.trinitychurchnow.com Sun., 10:15am (Traditional), 12:34pm (Contemporary)
Trinity Presbyterian Church
Meeting at South Brandon Worship Center 4929 Bell Shoals Rd., Valrico, 33596 813-661-2273, www.theremixchurch.org Sun., 5pm
14925 North Boulevard, Tampa, 33616 813-961-5836, www.trinitytampa.com Sun., 9:30am, 11am (Bible Classes), 6pm (2nd & 4th Sun.), Wed., 6:15pm
Revival Worship Church
9270 Bay Plaza Blvd., Suite 600, Tampa, 33619 813-621-8886, www.revivalworshipchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm, Fri., 7pm
River of Life
410 Chapman Rd. East, Lutz, 33549 813-949-9931, www.riveroflife-lutz.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
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
Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue
33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-831-5673, www.shoreshdavid.org Fri., 7:30pm
Water’s Edge Church
30200 Overpass Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-994-5000, www.connectingfaith.com Sun., 11am, Wed., Kids 6:30pm, Adults 7pm
St. James House of Prayer Episcopal Church
Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church
2708 N. Central Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-223-6090, www.sjhoptpa.org Sun., 9am (Traditional), 11:30am (Contemporary)
6100 Memorial Highway, Tampa, 33615 813-886-2536, www.wesleymemorial.net Sun., 9am & 11:15am, Wed., 6:30pm
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)
Without Walls Intl. Church
3860 W. Columbus Dr., Tampa, 33607 813-879-4673, www.withoutwalls.org Sun., 9am & 11am, Wed., 7pm
Zephyrhills First Assembly
Tampa Covenant Church
13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd., Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979, www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, Wed., 7pm
36322 SR 54, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-788-3490, www.zephyrhillsfirst.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Terrace Palms Community Church
9620 Davis Rd., Tampa, 33637 813-985-9279, www.terracepalms.org Sun., 9am (Bible Study), 10:30am (Worship), Wed., 7pm (Youth Groups)
The Gathering: A Wesleyan Church 813-767-7624 www.thegatheringwc.com Call for Summer Service Times
Torre Fuerte Tampa
Meeting at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church 19911 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-410-7220 Spanish Services Sat., 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: Contact@OverflowMag.com
Trinity Alliance Church
2577 Keystone Rd., Tarpon Springs, 34688 727-943-8286, www.trinityalliancetarpon.com Sun., 10:15am
29
June 2012 Love+Faith+Hope
EVENTS JUNE/JULY
JUNE 2
Party on the Patio Fundraiser Concert with The Showcase All-Stars
11-15 Church of the Lakes VBS Beyond the Gold (Ages 3 to 6th grade)
Music Showcase 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon 813-685-5998 www.faopa.org *To benefit music scholarships 6:30pm-8:30pm
4
How to Start Your Own Christian Business Class 808 E. Okaloosa Ave., Tampa entrepreneurcoaching@yahoo.com 813-527-5491 7pm-9pm, $15 at the door
2530 Wilson Rd., Land O' Lakes 813-948-4358, lolepc@verizon.net www.churchofthelakesepc.org *Soccer, Baseball & Volleyball **Special Program for Pre-K 9am-11:30pm, $10 (includes t-shirt)
12
South Tampa Fellowship 5101 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa RSVP: 813-386-1838 or josie@4kidsoftampa.com 6-9pm
8
Jars of Clay Concert with Jonny Diaz & Letters From Patmos Polk Theater 121 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland www.thejoyfm.com 855-223-1008 7pm, $25 (general admission)
17
John Mark McMillan Concert with Ascend the Hill & KB
19
Free* Father's Day Admissions MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa
23
Surviving Your Tsunami A Women's Conference
Cypress Point Community Church 15820 Morris Bridge Rd., Thonotosassa More info: gracephil413@yahoo.com *includes breakfast & lunch 9:30am-3:30pm, $20 donation
30
Webster Memorial's 1st Annual Tea Party Youth Fundraiser
Webster Memorial Baptist Church 1135 N. Chestnut Rd., Lakeland More info: rfedorcek@gmail.com *Door prizes, music & guest speakers 9:30am-11:30am, $10 (Ages 6 and older)
18-22 Bibles & Basketballs Youth Camp 3rd - 8th Grade
ADD YOUR EVENT
Immanuel Lutheran School 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon 813-623-5713 or edtcfp@gmail.com *Charity Game: Harlem Legends v. Hillsborough County All Stars, 7pm on the 22nd 1:45pm-4:45pm, $65
Presented by Inspired by God Ministries Hospice Education Center 3231 SW 34th Ave., Ocala 352-362-2485 or 352-875-3261 1-4pm, $25
New Tampa Women's Connection Luncheon Speaker Henry Poates & Tool Time with Ralph
Tampa Palms Country Club 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa Contact Becky for more info: 813-961-2810 Reservations: dayoung3@verizon.net *This month men are invited! 11am-1pm, $17
www.mosi.org (TBD - verify before going) Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa www.lowryparkzoo.com (open 9:30am-5pm) Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa www.flaquarium.org (open 9:30am-5pm) *With the purchase of a full paid admission
100 Women Adorn Hats & Pearls Summer Brunch for a Cause "Beating the Devil out of Domestic Violence"
9
First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist 10650 McIntosh Rd., Thonotosassa More info: Josh Simpson, 813-295-4495 *Kid-friendly meal served at 6pm 6pm-8:45pm, FREE
Calvary Chapel of St. Petersburg 8900 US Hwy 19 N, Pinellas Park 727-577-7705 7pm, $15 at the door
8-10, Beauty & the Beast Musical 14-17 Presented by Foundation Christian Academy
& the FL Academy of the Performing Arts The Barn Theatre at Winthrop 11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview 813-685-5998 www.faopa.org *Based on the Disney animated movie 7pm (Thurs. & Fri.), 2pm & 7pm (Sat. & Sun.)
18-22 Adventures on Promise Island VBS
Bob Evans, 16314 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa Contact Becky for more info: 813-961-2810 9am-10am
Teleconference every 2nd & 4th Thursday Dial: 712-432-3100, Code: 238638 More Info: 813-447-5017 or dsocflorida@gmail.com "We are a Love-driven, Christ-centered & Ministry-focused Society of Kingdom Sisters" 9pm
15
Presented by Wesley Memorial's KidZone Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church 6100 Memorial Hwy, Tampa 813-886-2536 www.wesleymemorial.net 9am-12:30pm, $35 for the week
New Tampa Women's Prayer Connection
14 & 28 The Daughters of Christ - FL Chapter
6, 13, Faith Based Foster Parent Training 20 MAPP Course
18-22 Amazing Wonders Aviation VBS
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
JULY 3
1-7
$2 Entry at Glazer Children's Museum
110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-443-3861 www.glazermuseum.org 2pm-7pm
12 & 26 The Daughters of Christ - FL Chapter
Teleconference every 2nd & 4th Thursday Dial: 712-432-3100, Code: 238638 Info: 813-447-5017 or dsocflorida@gmail.com "We are a Love-driven, Christ-centered & Ministry-focused Society of Kingdom Sisters" 9pm
Red, White & Zoo Week
Lowry Park Zoo 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 www.lowryparkzoo.com *FREE admission for military and up to 3 direct dependants with military ID 9:30am-5pm, open until 8pm on the 7th
16-20 Adventures on Promise Island VBS Ages 5 - 5th Grade
30 OverflowMag.com June 2012
Heritage Church 1854 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz 813-909-4080 www.yesheritage.com *Games, crafts, snacks, live worship 9am-12pm, $5 per child
22
$5 Zoo Day
Lowry Park Zoo 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552 www.lowryparkzoo.com 9:30am-5pm
UPGRADE YOUR EVENT 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