Overflow 34 | January 2013 by Overflow Magazine

OVERFLOWMAG.COM | JANUARY 2013

JAYAR REEVES The Afternoon Drive Host on The JOY FM

Sharing The Truth of Jesus

A WALKING MIRACLE

Refocus on Christ

CONTENTS

16 FINDING JOY THROUGH THE RADIO The JOY FM ministers to listeners across the Tampa Bay area daily. One host, Jayar Reeves, opens up about life on the air, his faith, and the impact of music.

GRACE AND SALVATION RESULTS IN PROTECTION

ATTRACT OR REPEL

Ronnie shares his story of discovering true peace in the midst of destruction. Finding faith in Jesus allowed him to overcome a life-threatening illness, repair his marriage, and live the life God planned for him.

The Bible teaches us the importance of sharing the Good News of Christ, regardless of how people may react to the message. Some may repel God's Word, but there will be others who will attract the Gospel and accept Jesus.

REFOCUSING OUR SIGHT

CHEWING THE CUD

As New Covenant believers, we must refocus and begin seeing ourselves how God sees us. We are not unworthy, hopeless peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.

Meditating on Scripture is a sure way to find God's victory in your life. Learn how valuable it is to chew on the Word and how it can lead to prosperity in all areas of your life.

SALVATION

TOP 5 BIBLE APPS

6 24 26 27 30

FROM THE EDITOR HEALTHY LIFE LOCAL MUSIC MY ROCK LOCAL CHURCHES

HIGHLIGHT

EVENTS

FROM FROM THE EDITOR EDITOR

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JANUARY 2013, Issue 34

Dear Friends, The New Year is here, and most of us will start making New Year’s resolutions. Even if we don’t consider them resolutions, we talk about how this year will be different than last year. My reoccurring resolution is to eat healthier and exercise more. (I think that may be almost every woman’s resolution!) It ends up reoccurring because I am too hard on myself, setting unrealistic expectations. I am not going to do that this year…with God’s grace to help me. A new year provides us with a clean slate and a perfect time to make some much-needed adjustments in our lives, but let’s not go overboard and make impossible goals for ourselves. In our Healthy Life section this month, fitness professional Casio Jones tells us some simple ways to make healthier choices in 2013. Check it out on page 24. Our health is one of our greatest investments, so let’s dust off those sneakers and get moving (with the doctor’s permission, of course)! Our health is important not only physically, but also mentally and spiritually. Meditating on God’s Word can bring healing to all areas of our lives. If we meditate on God’s Word, we will become focused on Christ. In turn, we will have peace and joy fill our hearts and gain victory over the challenges that we face. In Chris Cherp’s article, “Chewing the Cud,” discover more of the benefits of meditating on God’s Word and how we can accomplish this each day (page 22). I’m definitely going to “chew” on more Scripture this year! Brian Essary’s article, “Refocusing Our Sight,” also reminds us to keep our focus on Christ rather

than on ourselves. When we do, we can be an effective witness to others, bringing more into the Kingdom of God. Although, some may reject the Gospel, we must still tell others about Jesus. Kerry Johnson reveals a great analogy between magnets and how people react toward the Gospel. You can learn more in her article, “Attract or Repel,” on page 10. Radio is an excellent way to share Jesus with others. It is a part of most people’s lives. What we choose to listen to has a direct impact on our minds and emotions. So why not listen to something uplifting? Christian radio stations have the unique ability to bring joy and encouragement to our days through God’s Word and Christ-centered music. One such radio station is The JOY FM, and they have been helping listeners find joy for over 25 years. Have you ever heard a radio show host’s voice and wondered what they looked like? Well, The JOY FM’s Afternoon Drive host, Jayar Reeves, is on the cover this month. Jayar’s show has made me laugh many times, bringing joy to my afternoons. During our interview with Jayar, we got to see a whole different side of him. In our featured spotlight, “Finding Joy Through Radio,” Jayar candidly shares about his career, his faith, and his views on Christian music. You don’t want to miss it (see page 16)! Does God still perform miracles? Ronnie Rivera is a living example of God’s grace, ability, and desire to perform miracles—even today. After giving his life to Jesus, Ronnie overcame some of life’s most challenging obstacles. Through Jesus, his body and marriage were healed and he found the life God had planned for him all along. I encourage you to read more about what God has done in Ronnie’s life on page 8. If you don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus, then please consider making Him your Savior. A relationship with Christ will bring you more joy than you can imagine. Please visit our salvation section on page 14, and make 2013 your best year yet. I wish you a joy-filled January, and may your focus always be on Christ. Happy New Year! Resting in Jesus,

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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 stephen.theriault.photo@gmail.com 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.

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MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!

GRACE & SALVATION RESULTS IN PROTECTION SUBMITTED BY RONNIE RIVERA

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have been married to my beautiful bride, Sarah, for eleven years. We have four children, three boys and a girl. My life is so full of joy and happiness right now because God is in the center of it. However, it was not like this a few years ago. Growing up, I was raised by my mother. My father left us when I was 4-years-old, so I never had a father figure in my life. I never learned how a Christian man should treat his wife or how a father should treat his children. I didn’t know how to love. My exposure to male role models consisted of uncles and cousins. My mother did raise me in a Christian home where I learned the foundation of Christianity and heard stories about Jesus. However, I never learned about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. When I turned 19, I decided to join the Army as a combat medic, and in 1995, I moved away from my family and God. Eventually, I decided to move to Florida and start a new life. I transferred to an Army reserve unit in Tampa, Florida, and started my career as a first responder. I worked for a private ambulance company, and I also became a firefighter. In 1999, I met my wife, Sarah, at work. During that year, I also started working for Fire Rescue as a firefighter/paramedic. It was my dream job. In 2001, my wife and I got married, but God wasn’t at the center of our marriage. In fact, we had different views about religion, and neither of us understood how important a personal relationship with Christ was. Our first son was born in 2003, and shortly after, we began to have marriage problems. I wanted to hang out with my coworkers, go out to nightclubs, drink, lust, and come home late at night rather than spend time with my family. Our marriage was hurting, and I didn’t want to do anything about it. The enemy was trying to destroy us, and he used my weaknesses to try to accomplish that goal. I was treating my wife without respect, honor, love, or compassion. Things got out of control. In 2005, things deteriorated so much that I selfishly decided to leave my wife and children. I moved out of my house, believing my marriage couldn’t be fixed and I was better off on my own. I was very angry and filed for divorce. The enemy seemed to be succeeding in his mission to destroy our family, but God had a different plan. Shortly thereafter, I returned to the house to retrieve something when my oldest son—who was two-years-old at the time—stopped me as I was leaving and cried, “Papa, please don’t leave!” In

that moment my heart broke. I recalled when I was four and my own father left me. God began working in my heart, and a few days later, I decided to drop the divorce. I spoke with my wife and told her that we needed to stay together because of the kids. She agreed. Later that year we started going to church to seek answers for our marriage and to find peace and healing. We found a great church in Tampa that we still attend today. My wife really turned her life over to Christ, and I saw a change in her. Instead of trying to change me, she gave everything to God and decided to pray for me and for our marriage. I was going to church with her, but I wasn’t connected to God. I was still hanging out with friends in clubs, drinking often, and staying out late. But my wife was not fighting with me anymore about my inappropriate choices. She just gave everything to God. A few years passed, and in 2008, I had a serious encounter with God. My wife had continued to faithfully pray for me, and one day while at church, the pastor and his wife began talking about marriage. Their words hit me like a rock. I felt that God used them to speak directly to me. They were teaching on 1 Corinthians 6 and 7. It changed my heart. At that moment, I gave my life to Him. I was born again! I felt like the heavy burden that I was carrying was lifted off my chest that day. A destructive chain was broken at that moment, a chain that I was dragging around all those years after my father left my mother. I asked God to completely use me for His glory. I made myself available to Him. I was on fire for Him and wanted to share what He had done in my life with others. After that encounter with God, my relationship with Jesus grew stronger as well as my relationship with my wife and kids. We no longer allowed anything to separate us. Over the next few years, I began to do more of His work. However, this past year was the most challenging in my Christian walk as the enemy tried to attack me in a very different way. On February 8th, 2012, at the age of 36, I was working at the fire station when I started having chest pressure. I didn’t think it was anything serious, but two hours later, the pressure was still there. I decided to go to the ER. Upon arrival at the ER, they told me that I was having a heart attack. I was in shock and disbelief. They needed to do an emergency cardiac catheterization. During the procedure I prayed to God like never before. I felt that I still needed to lead my family and that I had more work to do for His Kingdom. God answered my prayer and I came out of the surgery with no damage to my heart, and though I had to go on blood thinners for a time and spend six days in the hospital, the cardiologist said that I would be fine! Nevertheless, the spiritual attack was not over yet. I was discharged

“God showed me that He can do all things and He is above all things.” from the hospital, and I had no problems for the first two days at home. But on the morning of the third day, the enemy attacked me again. This time, it was more serious. I woke up to take my medications and felt very weak. I got up from my bed, and all of the sudden, I just collapsed on the floor. I tried to get up but I couldn't. My wife called 911, but in just a few seconds my entire left side went paralyzed. My training told me that I was having a stroke. Friends from the fire department showed up and took me to the hospital. During that time, God sent five of His servant leaders from my church to intercede for me. Before they came to see me in the ER room, they were led to pray for me in the parking lot. This was at the same exact time that I was having a CT scan. Amazingly, by the time the scan was over, I was able to feel my left arm and leg again. I believe their prayers in the parking lot were the reason why the clot moved from my brain, preventing damage to my brain. God was at work again. The next day, they did an MRI of my brain. The baffled neurologist admitted that I did have an acute

stroke to the right side of my brain, but he couldn’t understand why I didn’t have any damage or speech problems. I didn’t even need rehab. He stated, “You are very lucky!” We all know it was not luck. It was the hand of God all over me. He protected me, saved me from harm, and protected my family. I am here. I am alive. I am even stronger now. This experience has only made God’s plan for my life all the clearer. I had never seen a miracle in person before—until now. I had never seen anyone healed before—until now. God showed me that He can do all things and He is above all things. It is awesome to read about Him and apply it to your life, but it is even greater when He shows those things to you. He is powerful, He is the greatest Doctor, and He is the greatest Healer. He is God Almighty! I am so thankful that God allowed me to come out of the hospital with no damage to my heart or brain. I am a walking miracle. I have no doubt that He wants me to share this for the rest of my life and help bring people into His Kingdom. John 15:7 (NIV) says, "If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given to you." During my time in the hospital, I asked God to please let me come out of this situation. He answered and granted me what I asked. Satan tried to destroy my marriage, my family, and me—but he failed. God protected us. Today, I am still a firefighter/paramedic, and I am also a divisional vice president for the nonprofit ministry Responder Life, which supports and ministers to first responders and their families. We help first responders and their families to respond to the most important call of their lives. “First responders put their personal safety on the line every day in order to protect and serve our communities. This intense and highly charged environment in which they work can impact them and their families in a negative manner. In response to these critical realities, Responder Life was formed to support and strengthen the families of all first responders, including firefighters, police officers, emergency medical professionals, 911 dispatchers, and other responders serving in city, county, state, and federal agencies” (www.responderlife.com). I thank God for His abundant grace and protection and for giving me the opportunity to help others. If you would like to find out more about Responder Life, please visit www.responderlife.com. You can also contact me at 813-900-2439 or at ronnie.rivera@responderlife.com. ■

January 2013 Love+Faith+Hope

CONTRIBUTOR

ATTRACT OR REPEL BY KERRY JOHNSON

I stepped into the classroom and let out a tired but grateful sigh. The New Year was here! It was New Year’s Day, and I was teaching 2nd and 3rd grade Sunday school. January 1st would be our last lesson in Acts, and though I was excited about starting Romans, I also felt nostalgic about finishing the book of Acts. My mind went back to the spring of 2011 when we started the Bible’s first-hand account of the early church. We learned about Peter and the disciples’ Spirit-lead faith, about God breaking chains both physical and spiritual, and about the apostles’ determination to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the Jewish people – and eventually with the Gentiles, too. We read about the early church’s persecution and the first Christian martyr, Stephen, and about Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus. Later we saw the evidence of Paul’s changed heart as he preached Jesus Christ to all who would listen, we learned about Paul’s time in prison and the letters he penned to the churches while behind bars, and we read about his travels and shipwreck on Malta. This week the lesson was in Acts 28:17-31, and the memory verse was Acts 28:28. The pointed words spoken by Paul sum up the book of Acts well and still resonate today. “Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will hear it!” (Act 28:28, NKJV) Paul’s main concern – even after he was arrested, wrongly accused, and placed under indefinite house arrest – was not in clearing his name or getting out of the difficult situation that he was in. Paul’s central focus was telling others

about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, even if some in his audience didn’t believe. After placing the red marker back on the whiteboard shelf, I went over to sort the large Ziploc bag I had brought from home. It contained magnets and various other items for the lesson’s activity. I was excited because I knew the kids would really enjoy the hands-on activity and how well it tied in to the heart of our lesson – that it’s important we share the truth of Jesus, even if people don’t believe us. Like the magnets, some would attract while others would repel the Gospel. Inside the bag were a couple of other magnets, Lego pieces, paper clips, rocks, a nail, small toys, and other random objects. The kids would guess which items would attract and which would repel one another and then test them out. I also brought along a little red lobster that clings to the side of our fridge. Who would think the magnet would attract the tiny stuffed animal crustacean? It was so funny to hear the kids’ surprised squeaks when two tiny red claws stuck decisively to the magnet, and it reminded me that we never know who will attract and who will repel the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul experienced this firsthand when the Jewish leaders came to listen to him speak about his faith:

solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved. (Acts 28:23-24, NKJV) As I read and studied that section, I was struck by Paul’s great burden for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Verse 24 says that he talked about Jesus “from morning till evening.” All day! And rather than be upset that some in the crowd didn’t believe, Paul pressed on in his preaching of Christ. During two more years of house arrest in Rome, Paul

“LORD, GIVE US THE COURAGE TO TELL OTHERS ABOUT YOU, EVEN IF THEY DON'T BELIEVE.”

So when they [the Jewish leaders] had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and

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continued speaking Jesus to anyone who would listen – “preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him” (Acts 28:31, NKJV). This New Year, as we make resolutions and begin with a clean slate of hopes and goals, remember He Who made our slates clean—Jesus Christ. Though some whom we come into contact with will repel God’s Word and His work in our lives, others will attract the Gospel and in turn, enter into an eternal relationship with our Savior. Lord, give us the courage to tell others about You, even if they don’t believe. ■

CONTRIBUTOR

BY BRIAN ESSARY

“And when He came to His disciples, He saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them. And straightway all the people, when they beheld Him, were greatly amazed, and running to Him saluted Him. And He asked the scribes, What question ye with them?” (Mark 9:14-16, KJV)

or us to understand this scene, we must first understand the context of what was taking place. The disciples had come face to face with a demon-possessed boy whom they were unable to set free. These were the same disciples who had already experienced great victory in the past. So why, in this case, were the disciples unable to set this boy free? There are several different keys to understanding this Scripture, but the main point to notice is found in verse 14: “…and the scribes questioning with them.” This verse describes what Jesus saw when He arrived on the scene – the scribes and His disciples in a heated discussion. This is significant because the scribes were not pro-Jesus by any stretch of the imagination.

By understanding who the scribes were and what they believed, we can understand what they were questioning the disciples about. They were the most rule-oriented of all the religious leaders of their day—even more so than the Pharisees. Not only did they believe that one must keep the entire Levitical law to be in right standing with God, but they also added their own laws that God had never ordained. It is what Paul later refers to as the “commandments and doctrines of men” (Colossians 2:22, KJV). The scribes were challenging the disciples’ capability to help this boy based on the disciples’ ability to keep all the rules and laws. These disciples, who had experienced victory in the past, had their confidence shaken by their

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dispute with the scribes. We can gather that the scribes were judging the disciples, telling them that they were not worthy, and their words shook the disciples to the point that they could not set this boy free. The disciples focused on the accusations of the scribes and their inability to measure up to the law. They allowed condemnation to enter their hearts, leaving them ineffective. Collectively as the church, we have spent most of our time focused on ourselves because we have fallen for the same deception that the disciples had bought into when the religious rule-keeping scribes were questioning them. Many believers today do not believe that God is for them, and as a result, they feel unworthy. After all, how could they reach anyone for Christ when they themselves are still such a mess and unworthy before God? They have fallen for the trick of the accuser of the brethren, and this accuser is Satan. Have you ever asked yourself why he accuses? As believers, we are a lost cause to Satan. When someone is saved, they are in right standing with God and on their way to Heaven. However, Satan knows if he continues to accuse us, making us feel unworthy, we will become ineffective in our witness. We would spend all of our time focused on ourselves, attempting to feel acceptable before God

through rule keeping. Meanwhile, those who do not know Christ are forgotten about and are never reached because all our focus is on trying to keep God happy with us. Colossians 2:14-15 (KJV) says, “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinance that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” Jesus, through His death on the cross, paid the penalty that the law demanded—death. As a result, that law is no longer against us because the debt of it is already paid. If the law has been nailed to the cross and the debt of it paid, then what does Satan have to justly accuse us of? NOTHING! We are not righteous before God because of law keeping. We are righteous before God because of our faith in Jesus (Romans 1:16-17). Satan has nothing left to destroy our confidence in God’s eternal acceptance of us because our righteousness is solely dependent on Jesus. Knowing this empowers us to reach out to those who do not know Jesus. “That the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus” (Philemon 1:6, NKJV). We are in Christ; our life is hidden with Him (Colossians 3:3). As New Covenant believers, we must refocus and see ourselves how God sees us. We are not unworthy, hopeless people, but we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. The more we become conscience of how God sees us—righteous, accepted, and favored—the more transformation takes place in our lives. We take on the image of Christ, not through rule keeping and will power, but through heart transformation

that is the result of refocusing our spiritual sight and seeing ourselves the way God sees us—in Christ! When we see ourselves in Jesus, we will be effective in our witness to others. This New Year, let’s refocus our sight on Christ. ■ BRIAN ESSARY has traveled the world for years ministering to the unreached through mass crusades. He has seen over one million people come to Christ and hundreds of churches planted. Brian is also the senior associate pastor at Grace Life Church in Lutz and one of the church's regular speakers. www.gracelifetampa.com

SALVATION

A BETTER WAY S A LVAT I O N P R AY E R "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9, NKJV)

ow many times have we started the New Year swearing off sweet or salty foods or whatever foods that seem to be our weakness? In tandem with the modified diet, we implement an exercise routine made for an Olympic athlete, only to find ourselves in a closet or locked room refusing to workout ever again and binging on that special food we swore off just a few weeks earlier. This is what happens when we put strict, unrealistic expectations on ourselves, especially without a clear understanding of how things work. Very similar to the New Year’s resolution that is destined to fail is a spiritual rut we can get into known as works. We can start out with the best of intentions, wanting to serve our Lord and be the best Christian, only to find ourselves working like a hamster on a wheel trying to receive blessings and acceptance from God. This can also be known as legalism – our attempt to gain favor and right standing with God through works. Legalism is destined to fail. Jesus was the only One who could perform perfectly to the

Law, and He did that for us so we could gain right standing with God through Him. Thank Jesus that receiving eternal life along with all His blessings has nothing to do with our physical works and everything to do with His perfect completed work at the cross. It is a gift of God. It doesn’t matter if you volunteer for every charity event in your community, help every old lady across the street, or even give 50 percent of your paycheck to the needy. God loves each and every one of us as much as He loves His Son, Jesus (John 17:23). Once we make Jesus our Savior, God sees us perfectly through Him. It is by His grace and not by our works; Jesus has done all the work. Now, all you have to do is have faith in the grace of Jesus. If you don’t know Jesus and would like 2013 to be the beginning of a life that is filled with joy, peace, and blessings, then I would encourage you to invite Him into your heart today and begin learning what He did for us at the cross. ■

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!

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FEATURED MAGNIFY HIM MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT SUBMITTED BY YOU!

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WRITTEN BY AMANDA WRIGHT

FINDING THROUGH JOY RADIO

“Worship the Lord with joy! Enter His presence with joyful singing!” (Psalm 100:2, NET)

Each week we pile into our cars, buckle our children in, start the engine, and turn the radio on as we embark on five more days of work, school, or running errands. We look to music or radio show hosts to fill the silence in our cars. Many of us also stream a radio station as we work, breaking the monotony of the tasks at hand. Whether we realize it or not, radio is interwoven into our daily lives. But is radio more than a silence-filler or a distraction? Christian radio certainly is more—it is an avenue for joy and encouragement as we journey through life each day. As human beings, we need encouragement in one form or another. We need to be moved, we need to laugh, and we need Christ’s joy when we don’t feel like smiling. It could be a Scripture, a ministering song, or a word of truth spoken on air that resonates in our spirit. What we listen to fills our hearts and minds and stays with us throughout the day. There are radio stations that share God’s love and make an eternal impact on the lives of people every day, and The JOY FM is one such station.

REACHING PEOPLE FOR CHRIST For over 25 years, The JOY FM has offered uplifting music and family-friendly programming. Currently, the station’s cast of hosts is comprised of dynamic personalities who will make you chuckle, discuss thought-provoking topics, and share their faith in unique ways. All of the staff at The JOY FM, including popular host Jayar Reeves, have one thing in common: they are dedicated to bringing joy over the airwaves. The mission of The JOY FM is to “encourage people and strengthen the Church through contemporary Christian music media,” said Jeff MacFarlane, The JOY FM’s general manager. He shared about the history of the station, explaining that it was founded in 1986 as “JOY 88 WJIS” in the Bradenton-Sarasota area. “Over the years The JOY FM network has grown to create full power FM stations in Port Richey, Gainesville, Ocala, Crystal River, Sebring, and Frostproof, [as well as] a patchwork of low-power repeaters throughout the Bay area.”

January 2013 Love+Faith+Hope

The JOY FM’s vision is to continue reaching and serving more people, which supports their newest development going on now: the signal upgrade project, One Day. “Once the project is completed, 91.5 FM in Port Richey will have six times the reach and cover all of Tampa Bay with one signal,” Jeff explained. This has been the prayer of the station for over ten years, but the project is a huge undertaking. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry, the station looks to their listeners and business underwriters to help raise the one million dollars needed to make this dream a reality. What does the station hope to accomplish through being on air and expanding their listening area? Jeff said, “Ultimately, everything that happens on The JOY FM is a response to the Gospel and what Christ has done. He has done the work, so it’s our joy to celebrate that with our listeners and financial supporters. Only He can target the right heart, with the right song, at the right time.

Those moments happen every day, and each one carries transformative impact for individuals and communities in the Tampa Bay area.”

ONE HOST’S WALK Jayar Reeves, the Afternoon Drive host, expressed similar sentiments during our interview with him. He said that it’s the music and the Scriptures that have the impact on the listeners, “and if I say anything great, that’s a cherry on top.” He humbly deflected his ability to minister to people and gave the credit to God alone. Jayar revealed another side to him, one we may not always hear during the show. He opened up about his personal journey and candidly shared about his faith walk and struggles, his career in radio, and his views on Christian music. Raised in a Christian home, Jayar spent much of his childhood and adolescence in church. His story may seem familiar to some who are navigating the effects of religious legalism and rebellion in their lives. As a young man, Jayar compared his attitude to that of Paul’s before he converted. Jayar explained that Paul strove to live according to the letter of the law and that was what he was trying to do. Jayar fell into leading a life full of legalism and rule keeping for fear of rejection from God, relying on everything he could do right instead of cultivating a relationship with Christ. Jayar could quote just about any Scripture, but during his time at Bible college in Ireland, he started to question whether he really knew God. “I hated every second of it for two years,” he said and upon his return to the States, Jayar’s confusion with his faith compounded. “I finally came to the point where I was just going to do whatever I wanted.” As many of us have experienced, destructive behavior never leads to happiness; it only further deepens the empty feeling in our soul and perpetuates the brokenness we suffer without Christ.

FINDING REFUGE IN SCRIPTURE Although he was jaded by his early experience with church, Jayar explained that it was legalism that he needed to get away from, not God. He honestly shared that, like many believers, he still struggles with the feelings of brokenness, but he looks to God to heal. “Every day I am desperate for Scripture to give me a point of balance. It’s on my mind to draw near to Him in spite of my dysfunction,” Jayar said. One Scripture passage that brings him solace is Psalm 52:8-9 (NIV): “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love forever and ever. I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good….” “I love David’s brokenness and the very fact that God [still] adored him,” Jayar said. Jayar also pointed out that despite David’s many mistakes, God forgave David, loved him, and prospered him. David wrote over 75 psalms speaking of God’s love and goodness and how he hopes in God’s Name. “I relate with that so much, that brokenness, but yet not being too broken that you fall off the planet and let the brokenness win. You’re still in the ring fighting because you know what is right and true. Somewhere deep down there, He is working this stuff out. I think people can relate with that, but it doesn’t make you want to run to the front of the microphone, so to speak. I know that is kind of ironic because that is what I do,” Jayar shared.

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These Scriptures really capture the heart of God, because no matter what David did, God never stopped loving him and never left his side. He poured His grace upon David. So, it can follow that no matter what our past holds or what our current struggles are, God loves us and will never leave us. We can’t live life perfectly and we can’t earn our salvation and right standing with God through our own efforts. We can only gain eternity with our Father God through Jesus Christ. This is a free gift, and the path to holy living is resting in the finished work at the cross. Jayar said, “Someone once told me, ‘I don’t [stay away from] sin anymore just because I’m told to. I don’t sin as much anymore because this transaction that took place is so one-sided. I get the great deal here. [Jesus’ love] makes you feel good and that makes you want to keep your hand from evil.’”

RADIO JOURNEY Just as Scripture can offer joy and healing in our lives, God uses Christian radio to minister to our hearts and sometimes, as in Jayar’s case, uses it to lead us down a path toward our calling. Christian media has come a long way in the past fifteen years. It is authentic and personable hosts like Jayar and musicians like Matt Redman and Hillsong that make Christian radio just as entertaining as mainstream stations. The clear difference is what the listeners are offered through the content of the shows and the lyrics of the songs. Surprisingly the NEEDTOBREATHE super-fan, Jayar, didn’t like Christian music growing up and wanted to become a baseball announcer for the Mariners. So how did a guy from the Northwest end up at The JOY FM surrounded by music all day, every day? Jayar scored an internship at KISS 106.1 in Seattle, believing it was a means to an end (in baseball), but it was just the beginning of his radio journey. “I think God dangles a carrot over here because you wouldn’t have gotten here if He hadn’t made your eyes go there,” Jayar said. He started at the bottom of a legendary station and worked hard to get a chance at his own show. He moved out of state a few times for other radio gigs. “Through all these stops, I would come back to Seattle with more experience and get a higher and higher shift [on the radio],” Jayar explained. Eventually he was offered the afternoon show for the Christian station, Air One, in Portland, which then moved him to Sacramento for a year before he took a morning show job in Boise at a hiphop/pop station. Jayar said the show was very successful, but things didn’t work out with management. A year later, God put him back in Christian radio in Nashville where he stayed for three years. “It was an artist-driven show where TobyMac dropped by one day and Matthew West was in the studio the next day,” Jayar said. Then in 2008 Jayar joined the family at The JOY FM. “Everything just felt right and this is the longest I have ever been anywhere.” He attributes his happiness at the station to the president, Jim Campbell; “I love the aggressiveness of somebody who wants to put a quality product on, but has a ministry heart too. I wish the guy was my grandpa. He’s an amazing guy. He’s hired really good people, [and] Carmen and Jeff do a great job here of leading the way.”

ON THE AIR There is definitely quality programming on The JOY FM, and that is in part due to Jayar’s Afternoon Drive show each week day from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. On any given day, you’ll hear bits inspired by his three children, including his most successful spot, “Story Time with Jayar’s Kid.” Children have some wonderful imaginations and Jayar said, “I thought, what if kids could just tell a story and we use some sound effects and music to make people’s minds go somewhere.” He records his two daughters, who are nine and six-years-old, telling stories and has them produced, making hilarious and heartwarming bits. You can’t help but smile when you listen to their imaginations come to life. Most of us have been around little ones who say the funniest things, so we can relate to how entertaining a child’s thought process can be.

And that is Jayar’s whole point, finding things to share on the show that his listeners can relate to and bring a little joy in the midst of a busy day. “The ability to move somebody’s emotions is such a huge challenge for me,” Jayar said. So he’s constantly preparing for his shows, keeping the content fresh and entertaining. Each week you can tune in for Jayar’s Thursday Afternoon Chats and listen to interviews, which include a line-up of TobyMac, Tony Dungee, Ben & Julianna Zobrist, David Crowder, Switchfoot, and so many more prominent Christian artists and leaders. There’s even an archive on the website. Although Jayar started in mainstream radio, he has now spent much of his career enveloped in the world of Christian radio. This experience has enabled him to learn a thing or two about music. He now refers to himself as a “connoisseur” of good worship music. So we asked the expert, “What’s the difference between Christian and mainstream music today and how has that changed over the years?” Jayar explained that today’s Christian artists are as talented as mainstream artists. “The [Christian] talent has blown up. The very fact that Hillsong can be #2 on the iTunes albums list right below Eminem the day after it comes out [proves that],” Jayar said. He also explained that people resonate with vertical worship more and more. The big difference though is “[mainstream music] doesn’t need to rely on the lyrics to take a song to #1. We’ve got a magic component that our songs say something. They will at least bring you closer to God and your faith, hopefully,” Jayar said. Today’s hit Christian music has to rely on more than a great sound and good vocals. “It’s a marriage between a hook that you cannot get out of your head and a message,” he added. Song lyrics and commercial jingles inevitably get stuck in your head, so why not sing words of worship to God, and what better place is there to hear those words than tuning into Christian radio. You can get it all from The JOY FM: great music, genuine hosts, daily encouragement, laughter, moving stories, meaningful Scripture, and most importantly, joy. The JOY FM is listener supported, and they need our community’s help to continue “helping you find joy.” We encourage you to prayerfully consider giving into this wonderful ministry. Learn more at www.thejoyfm.com. Glory! ■

January 2013 Love+Faith+Hope

you haven't noticed, busting out your phone or tablet in church isn't taboo anymore, and the days of cringing when you hear a Bible page tear are almost behind us. We've found a better, faster way to tap into God's Word utilizing the very thing we carry around with us everywhere. In the quest of finding the perfect Bible app, almost every one of our contenders has the same basic functionality like bookmarking, note taking, social sharing, and the ability to upgrade. The perfect Bible app has to be constantly updated, simplistic in nature, and easy to use. Although all the apps in our round-up are free to download, their upgrades vary in prices. It's hard to base a rating on price alone since some of the upgrades are well worth it. We had to take a hard look at the basic functionality that is included with the free version and then judge the add-on and what it brings to the app itself. With tons of free Bible apps out there, here's our favorites based on popularity and features.

PocketBible by Laridian

In our opinion, PocketBible has the most features in one package. The free version gives you the KJV and once you register, you'll have access to a library of other titles. This app is expandable with numerous add-ons like translations, study companions, and guides.

★★★★★ | iPhone • iPad

Bible+

by Olive Tree Loaded with commentaries, maps, and dictionaries, Bible+ stands out from the crowd because you can use most of their powerful features offline. Bible+ allows for extensive note taking, bookmarking, and verse sharing, leaving you with a personalized experience. With over 2 million users, it’s worth a hard look.

★★★★★ | iPhone • iPad • Android

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Bible

by LifeChurch.tv This app has a great, stylish user interface with all the basic features of a good Bible app. It allows you to download offline versions for free, which is why this app made the list. Registration is required for bookmarking, note taking, and user history, but it also incorporates a nifty Bible reading plan. This Bible app boasts over 60 million downloads worldwide.

★★★★★ | iPhone • iPad • Android

Bible!

by Logos Bible Software The Logos Bible app offers over 40 free Bible translations and a scoop full of other resources following a free registration process. This app allows you to sync your info and user data across multiple devices, which makes it pretty handy for any gadget person.

★★★★★ | iPhone • iPad • Android

Mantis Bible Study by Mantis Bible Company

With over 200 add-ons, Mantis is a well-developed and advanced Bible app. However, most of the add-ons are on the pricey side like popular translations and study guides. Their add-ons allow you to view everything offline which is a plus with those WiFi-only iPads. This might not be the app for the average user as some of their features are geared for the serious, advanced user.

★★★★★ | iPhone • iPad • Android

FEATURED

BY CHRIS CHERP

ow exciting would it be to know in January that this year would be the most prosperous, healthy, and blessed year of our lives? Imagine the positive impact of knowing everything we involve ourselves in would succeed above and beyond our expectations. Do you think that knowledge would have an impact on our daily attitudes and on the way we treat others? Of course it would! So how could something that sounds too good to be true actually come to pass? Let’s look at the story of Isaac that took place during a great famine in the land: Then came a time of great need in the land, like that which had been before in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went to Abimelech, king of the Philistines, at Gerar. And the Lord came to him in a vision and said, Do not go down to Egypt; keep in the land of which I will give you knowledge: Keep in this land, and I will be with you and give you my blessing; for to you and to your seed will I give all these lands, giving effect to the oath which I made to your father Abraham…So Isaac went on living in Gerar. (Genesis 26:1-6, BBE) Isaac lived in Gerar and prospered. The Bible tells us in Genesis 26:12 that Isaac sowed in the land and reaped a hundredfold that same year. While in Gerar, Isaac became so successful in everything he did that he was even envied by the Philistines (Genesis 26:14). As a matter of fact, the king of the Philistines finally asked Isaac to leave the area because Isaac was significantly greater in power than the king (Genesis 26:16).

What a powerful story. Wouldn’t it be great to be in Isaac’s shoes today? He dwelled in a land that was suffering from famine and drought, yet what he sowed reaped a hundredfold that same year. So what’s the secret to this story? How can this experience become our experience today? The answer is found in the place where Isaac lived during that time – Gerar. Gerar is derived from the Hebrew word garar, which means “to chew the cud (or ruminate).”1

“By meditating on God’s Word, we begin to place ourselves in a position of imminent victory.” Chewing the cud is what a cow does with food. They chew it, swallow it, and then spit it back up to chew on it again and again. This is done in order to get all the nutrients out of the food they are eating. Likewise, we can do the same thing with God’s Word. Today, it would be better known as meditation or chewing on His Word. By meditating on God’s Word, we begin to place ourselves in a position of imminent victory. It is through this meditation that we are able to keep our souls at peace and our focus on the Truth and not on the circumstances we face in life.

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“Instead you thrill to GOD's Word, you chew on Scripture day and night. You're a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month, Never dropping a leaf, always in blossom” (Psalm 1:2-3, MSG). This Scripture paints a beautiful picture of the results gained from chewing on God’s Word. It’s a promise for success from our loving Father in Heaven. You might be saying to yourself, “I don’t know the Bible well enough. Where would I begin?” I can tell you that Psalms is a great place to find the promises of God. Deuteronomy 28:1-14 also shares the covenant blessing of God, which Jesus qualified us for when He fulfilled the Law on our behalf. Another Scripture that has helped me many times through the years is Psalm 138:8 (NKJV): “The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.” By meditating on this Scripture, I was able to focus on Jesus and allow Him to handle the challenges that I faced. Since then, the Lord has taken me out of a job and placed me in a position of influence, He has taken care of all my financial obligations, and He has even healed my body and relationships many times. This year let’s stay in the place of Gerar and meditate our way to abundant success. This can be done by choosing one Scripture each week and chewing on it. When we do, we will keep our eyes on Jesus, God’s living Word, and find peace and good success in everything we do. Make 2013 the best year of your life. Happy New Year! Glory! ■ 1classic.net.bible.org/strong.php?id=01641

HEALTHY LIFE

HEALTHY HABITS FOR THE NEW YEAR Q&A with Casio Jones

Please consult your physician before beginning any new diet or exercise routine.

Q A

What are your recommendations for easing into an exercise routine?

Regardless of your fitness level or experience, when you are starting a new exercise routine, work at a lower pace or intensity and increase in a safe manner. Here is an example for starting a new weight training routine: begin with one set for week one, and then increase to two sets for week two, and then again increase to three sets for week three. This will allow your body to make healthy and safe adaptations to improve your health and decrease injury.

Q A

What are a few easy ways to implement healthy eating throughout the day?

First, don’t skip breakfast; find a simple meal you can make and eat before you leave your house. Try adding raw oatmeal to your yogurt for a healthy breakfast with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates to last you a long time. Next, try packing your lunch instead of slipping out for a burger at lunchtime. Finally, try to eat foods in their natural state. In other words, eat foods the way God made them. This will reduce the issues of consuming too much processed foods. For example, instead of having a bowl of candy on your desk at work, have a bag of nuts in your drawer.

Q A Q A

Name a few super foods that people can introduce into their diet.

Plums are cheap and high in antioxidants. You can’t go wrong with spinach leafs, and some mushrooms help fight cancer. Cabbage, pomegranates, blueberries, mangos, kale, mustard greens, mangosteen, apples, and carrots are other good foods to add to your diet.

Why is it important to begin this year with some healthier habits?

The New Year is a clean slate for people to make better choices and learn from the pervious year. Since many chronic diseases are due to lifestyle choices, I encourage you to take advantage of this New Year and make healthier choices for 2013. Your health is an investment for your future.

Q A Q A

How do God and our faith in Him play a role in our health and fitness? We were created to do something special. We need to know why we are here and what God has called us to do. Our health is a vital tool for us to accomplish our God-ordained purpose in life.

Is it better to constantly move throughout the day or have set exercise sessions? Also, what are your thoughts on pedometers?

Move any way you can. Find what works best for your lifestyle. Just move! Studies have shown that three 10-minute bouts of exercise burned more calories than 30 minutes continuously. Pedometers are cool tracking devices that count your steps or strides. A good goal is to take 10,000 steps per day, which equals about 5 miles.

“Our health is a vital tool for us to accomplish our God-ordained purpose in life.”

Q A

How can improving your fitness level improve other areas of your life?

Exercise improves your cardiovascular system, increases your good cholesterol, reduces high blood pressure, and reduces the risk of diabetes, stroke, and cancer. Additionally, exercise helps you to sleep better at night, increase blood flow to your frontal lope (where you think), control body weight, improve moods, and create a sense of self-worth.

Q A

How important is it to stretch?

Stretching is the most overlooked aspect of fitness. It helps reduce injuries and helps you recover from an exercise bout. The best time for a long stretch is after your workout. Static stretching (hold for 20-60 seconds) relaxes the muscles, and you should never relax and fire a muscle. Warm up with active stretching (hold for 8 seconds).

Q A Q A

For the person who has no idea where to start in the gym, can you offer any exercise routine advice besides hire a trainer?

The best advice I have is to “use the machines.” When used correctly, the strength machines are safe and easy to operate. Perform 2-3 sets of a machine for each body part two to three times per week. Find a cardio machine you like and shoot for 30-60 minutes three times per week. Have fun and develop consistency.

What is Action 65?

Action 65 is a 65-day challenge to help transform a person into a more active individual with a sense of purpose. Whether you are a couch potato or someone who needs a new jump-start, this program is for you. It will help you become physically stronger, it will help you identify your purpose in life, it will help you understand proper nutrition, and most of all, it will help you have a deeper spiritual relationship with your Heavenly Father. Visit www.Action65.com for more information. Casio Jones is a sought-after health & wellness fitness educator and trainer. Casio is also a USF alumnus and has his own Fitness TV program, “Action 4 Life,” that airs on 3ABN. He has been coined “The Body Evangelist” because he fuses his lifestyle fitness program with biblical wellness principles. In 2011, Casio joined Florida Hospital Zephyrhills as the Director of Wellness.

January 2013 Love+Faith+Hope

LOCAL MUSIC

PHOTO BY BETHANY ROWELL

Deshun said, “I know my calling and I have a message and a ichigan native, Deshun Howard, moved to mission to share with the world. At the end of the day, it's not about the the Tampa area in the summer of 2006, record sales; it's about the souls we bring to Christ." He explained that seeking the warmth and beauty that his songs were “geared toward the struggles of life,” but his latest album, Florida offers after spending several years singing backup Soul Muzik (which features the radio single “One and Only”), is “geared and opening for other musicians up north. Deshun toward celebrating the victory of those struggles.” Deshun writes all learned to sing in church from a young age, and this raw his own music, and he explained that the inspiration comes from the talent enabled him to be on stage with Shania Twain Lord and how He brought him through all the trials and and open for musicians like R&B group tribulations in his life. 112, soul singer Frankie Beverly, and “The overall message of my album, Soul Muzik, is jazz artist Alexander Zonchik, to name a to show appreciation and love to the One who showed few. Although these experiences were His love for me, Jesus Christ! [I am] trying to give people exciting, Deshun felt God’s call to move in a small testimony on how God has changed my life and a different direction. He was led to create still works in me today. [I’m] hoping and praying that music that shares his own personal walk someone will be able to hold on to something I say [and] with Jesus and gives glory to God. that it will touch them in a way that they will realize He Deshun knew the only path that he works in all of us, if we would just seek and believe,” could take was the one that led to God. Deshun said. He said, “Christ had to be the center of my The sound of Deshun’s music is definitely unique, life; there was no other way to go. When 1. INTRO and Soul Muzik is not your average Christian album. The you’ve tried everything on your own and 2. FOR THE LOVE songs have a great beat, with a pop and soul vibe. If realize that you’ve never even passed go, 3. LIFT MY HANDS you’re looking for uplifting lyrics that offer music for the you have two [choices]: stay there or let 4. ONE AND ONLY soul, you’ll enjoy this album. As always, we encourage God.” With a clear vision for his musical 5. TIL THE DAY you to support the local musical talent in the Bay area. future, Deshun went to work on his first 6. SOUL MUZIK Deshun’s EP and latest album are available on iTunes and EP, Roller Coaster, which was released Amazon Music for download. Deshun will have several in September of 2010. The five-song EP 7. ROLLER COASTER concerts this year in the Tampa Bay area. featured his radio single, “Why.” You may 8. KEEP THE FIRE Visit www.deshunmusic.com for upcoming dates. ■ have heard it played on Spirit FM!

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MY ROCK

SCRIPTURES I STAND ON

John 19:30 (ESV)

"When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, "It is Finished," and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit." It is finished â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the old covenant with its requirements has been completed. Jesus took the sour wine, our sins. The impossible law keeping has been replaced by the New Covenant. Through Jesus and His Finished Work, we now receive love, forgiveness, kindness, and blessings. Jesus defeated death. I no longer feel condemned or strive to be perfect. When I trust in Him and His work, I am filled with all His love and power.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY CARSON DAVIS

HIGHLIGHT

BY AMIE CHERP

FLORIDA HOSPITAL WESLEY CHAPEL Focused on Patient Care and a Healthier Tomorrow

here is no need to travel outside of Wesley Chapel to get high-quality health care. The Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel opened up in October 2012. I had the pleasure of attending a media tour at the new hospital and was surprised by its beautiful exterior. I was equally astounded as I entered the front of the hospital, which is covered in windows, bringing in lots of natural light. The ascetics and layout of this hospital are impressive. It seems they thought about every detail when designing this hospital from the placement of lighting to windows overlooking nature to in-room entertainment. These and other design aspects are intended to create a better healing environment for their patients. The Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel has patient care as their top priority. Their president, Brian Adams, stated, “As a nonprofit hospital, we do not have shareholders. We are focused on providing high-quality patient care and believe in treating the whole person…mind, body, and spirit. Our faith-based approach is compassionate and patient-centered and is carried out through everything that we do.” In addition to their patient care, the hospital’s design, medical professionals, and cutting-edge technology enable the Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel to stand out among the rest. Mr. Adams explained, “As the newest hospital in Tampa Bay, we built our facility using evidence-based health principles to enhance patient care and healing. The hospital features first-in-the-region imaging technology…to provide faster, more accurate diagnosis and treatment. Our hybrid operating room, featuring high-tech digital imaging and flex move technology, is only the second of its kind in the nation. Additionally, we are the only hospital in Tampa Bay with RTLS (Real Time Location Services) tracking staff visits to patients and hand washing. Ultimately, it is the combination of the technology, the medical experts we have, and the healing environment we have created that makes the hospital unique.” One important feature of the hospital’s design is their incorporation of nature. “We know that a soothing environment promotes healing. So, all of our patient rooms and waiting rooms have views of nature. All of the artwork in the hospital (including three living art murals) features nature scenes because studies show that art showing recognizable scenes of nature helps reduce stress. We [also] have healing gardens – two outdoor

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sanctuaries featuring lush landscaping – that are open to patients and visitors 24 hours a day for rest, relaxation, and reflection,” Mr. Adams said. As a faith-based healthcare provider, the hospital’s mission is “to extend the healing ministry of Christ.” Mr. Adams continued, “We believe our staff live that every day by providing a compassionate, patient-centered experience and high-quality care, no matter what their role on the care team is. We have the privilege of being able to pray with patients if they would like and our pastoral care team is there to provide support for patients and their families 24 hours a day. [We] understand the important relationship between spiritual and physical health.” The hospital’s chapel is open 24 hours a day, and they have a chaplain on staff and other chaplains on call to comfort patients and their families. Mr. Adams said, “These healthcare professionals provide support and encouragement to patients and loved ones. They also facilitate visits from community clergy according to a patient’s wishes.” In accordance with Florida Hospital’s whole-person approach to healthcare, they are opening a wellness plaza this month. The plaza will hold a women’s center, physician office space, and a community health and wellness center. Mr. Adams explained, “The Health & Wellness Center is open to the community and features state-of-the-art TechnoGym fitness equipment; an indoor lap pool and warm water therapy pool; a cushioned, indoor jogging/ running track; massage therapy room; FitKids Club; and a café. Each member of our team has specialized training in his or her respective field.” Mr. Adams added, “We will also host community wellness programs like healthy cooking classes, disease-specific programs, and physician lectures. A membership sales center is open at the front of the hospital property so community members can learn about membership opportunities.” The Health & Wellness Center’s grand opening is on January 6th, 2013 from 1-4pm and is free to the community. They will have food, activities, entertainment, and tours. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this great new facility in our community. It is nice to see that Wesley Chapel finally has a hospital, and not just any hospital, a full-service, state-of-the-art hospital focused on patient care. For more information on the hospital or wellness center, visit www.floridahospital.com/wesley-chapel. ■

EVENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

JANUARY 4

Women-N-Charge Networking Meeting

Pebble Creek Country Club 10550 Regents Park Drive, Tampa 813-600-9848, info@women-n-charge.com 11:30am, $15 in advance/$18 at the door

Catholic Business Network Business Showcase

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church 2348 Collier Parkway, Land O' Lakes Contact: Mary Ann Whallen at 813-833-4737 or maryann@allhomeshaveissues.com *Food & Entertainment 8:30am-1:30pm

New Tampa Women's Prayer Connection

Hope and Help for the Single Mom Small Group Study

New Tampa Women's Connection Luncheon

Reveal - Miracle Healing Night

National Alliance on Mental Illness Support Group

Calvary Business Lunch

with David Horton & Brian Essary Grace Life Church 1930 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Lutz 813-393-0514 7pm, FREE

Gospel Sings for Wellness 2013 Series with The Isaacs Wesley Chapel Performing Arts Center 30651 Wells Rd., Wesley Chapel www.fhzwellness.com

*to benefit Florida Hospital Zephyrhills Wellness Center

7pm, $15 (general admission)

Meeting at Bob Evans 16314 North Dale Mabry, Tampa Contact: Becky for more info 813-961-2810 9am

Church of the Lakes 2530 Wilson Rd., Land O' Lakes www.churchofthelakesepc.org 813-948-4358 or lolepc@verizon.net 10am, Weekly on Wednesdays

God's Way to Ultimate Health Seminar Presented by Hallelhjah Acres Embassy Suites 10220 Palm River Rd., Tampa 800-915-9355, www.hacres.com *Learn a biblically based diet 10am-1pm, FREE

First Place 4 Health - The Christ-Centered Weight Loss & Healthy Living Program

Winter Jam Tour with TobyMac, Jamie Grace, Matthew West, Newsong & more!

Tampa Bay Times Forum 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa www.jamtour.com 6pm, $10 at the door

Church of the Lakes 2530 Wilson Rd., Land O' Lakes www.churchofthelakesepc.org 813-948-4358 or lolepc@verizon.net 7pm, Weekly on Tuesdays

CCAI Adoption Services Information Meeting

Adoption from China & Haiti 5814 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel RSVP: ccaifl2@ccaifamily.org or 813-994-1000 1pm-2:30pm

Speakers Kay Menzel and Gaye Martin Tampa Palms Country Club 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa Reservations: 352-458-3267 or beckyburgue@yahoo.com 11am-1pm, $17

Branch of Christ Ministries 23604 SR 54, Lutz For more info: 813-918-3205 *For friends, family members & caregivers of a person with a mental health issue 7pm-8:30pm Calvary Chapel St. Pete 8900 US Hwy 19 N., Pinellas Park 813-299-9219, dbs88@hotmail.com 12pm-1:30pm, $6

Pray & Play - A Playgroup with a Purpose

Hosted by Overflow Magazine Lexington Oaks Clubhouse Playground 26304 Lexington Oaks Blvd., Wesley Chapel RSVP: amanda@overflowmag.com *Moms and kids of all ages are welcome! 10am-11am, FREE

The All for You Tour with Mikeschair, Citizen Way & City Harbor

H2O Live! 100 W. Livingston St., Orlando More Info: 407-701-6037 or www.itickets.com 7pm, $12 (general admission)

ADD YOUR EVENT 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 on our website under the Submissions tab: www.overflowmag.com

FEBRUARY 1

4-8

Women-N-Charge Networking Meeting

Pebble Creek Country Club 10550 Regents Park Drive, Tampa 813-600-9848, info@women-n-charge.com 11:30am, $15 in advance/$18 at the door

6980 Professional Parkway East, Sarasota 941-388-6961, www.flcsarasota.org 7:30pm

Hope and Help for the Single Mom Small Group Study

Church of the Lakes 2530 Wilson Rd., Land O' Lakes www.churchofthelakesepc.org 813-948-4358 or lolepc@verizon.net 7pm, Weekly on Tuesdays

5 & 19 National Alliance on Mental Illness Support Group Branch of Christ Ministries 23604 SR 54, Lutz For more info: 813-918-3205 *For friends, family members & caregivers of a person with a mental health issue 7pm-8:30pm

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

First Place 4 Health - The Christ-Centered Weight Loss & Healthy Living Program

Church of the Lakes 2530 Wilson Rd., Land O' Lakes www.churchofthelakesepc.org 813-948-4358 or lolepc@verizon.net 10am, Weekly on Wednesdays

Greater Faith Conference with Keith Moore Faith Life Church

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Reveal - Miracle Healing Night

with David Horton & Brian Essary Grace Life Church 1930 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Lutz 813-393-0514 7pm, FREE

CCAI Adoption Services Information Meeting

Adoption from China & Haiti 5814 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel RSVP: ccaifl2@ccaifamily.org or 813-994-1000 1pm-2:30pm

Calvary Business Lunch

Calvary Chapel St. Pete 8900 US Hwy 19 N., Pinellas Park 813-299-9219, dbs88@hotmail.com 12pm-1:30pm, $6

Pray & Play - A Playgroup with a Purpose

Hosted by Overflow Magazine Lexington Oaks Clubhouse Playground 26304 Lexington Oaks Blvd., Wesley Chapel RSVP: amanda@overflowmag.com *Moms and kids of all ages are welcome! 10am-11am, FREE

Strawberry Festival

303 North Lemon St., Plant City 813-752-9194, www.flstrawberryfestival.com 10am-10pm

LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES Agape Faith Fellowship Church

Church of the Lakes

First Baptist of New Tampa

Alafia Baptist Church

Cornerstone Presbyterian Church

First Reformed Church of Tampa

Countryside Baptist Church

First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church

6805 U.S. Hwy 301 S., Riverview, 33578 813-571-9314, www.agapefaithfc.org Sun., 10:30am 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

Baypointe Church

5238 Mile Stretch Dr., Holiday, 34690 727-938-2955, www.baypointelife.com Sun., 10am & 11:15am

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

23604 SR 54, Lutz, 33559 813-435-1469, www.branchofchrist.com Sun., 10am

Bridgeway Church

30651 Wells Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-907-1313, www.bridgeway.tv Sun., 9am & 11am

Calvary Chapel Worship Center

6825 Trouble Creek Rd., New Port Richey, 34653 727-376-7733, www.ccwc.org Sun., 8:10am, 9:45am & 11:20am

Candlewood Community Church

21418 Carson Dr., Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-956-1541, www.candlewoodfl.org Sun., 10:30am

Centerpointe Community Church

8610 Temple Terrace Hwy, Tampa, 33637 813-988-3557, www.centerpointecommunity.com Sun., 10am

Christ Apostolic Church Tampa

10620 Henderson Rd., Tampa, 33625 813-899-2464, www.cactampa.org Sun., 9am & 10am

Christ CP Church

19501 Holly Lane, Lutz, 33548 813-909-9789, www.christchurchlutz.org Sun., 10:30am

Christian Family Church

3457 W. Kenyon Ave., Tampa, 33614 813-802-8736, www.cfctampa.org Sun., 10:30am

2530 Wilson Rd., Land O’ Lakes, 34638 813-948-4358, www.churchofthelakesepc.org Sun., 9:15am & 10:30am 17520 Marsh Road, Lutz, 33558 813-962-3584, www.cpclutz.org Sun., 9:30am & 11am, Wed., 7pm

13422 Sydney Road, Dover, 33527 813-571-8200, www.countrysidebaptistchurch.net Sun., 9:30am, 10:45am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm

28125 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-907-1685, www.fbcnewtampa.org Sun., 9:15am, 10:30am, & 6pm

8283 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33615 813-886-6210, www.frctampa.org Sun., 9:30am & 11am

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

CrossRoads Community United Methodist Church

Floodgates Community Church

Deliverance Christian Connection Ministry

Gateway Christian Center Assembly of God

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

2130 W. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 203, Brandon, 33511 813-401-7223, www.dccministry.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm, Sat., 9am

Dwelling Place

410 County Line Rd. W., Lutz, 33548 813-949-1912, www.thedwellingplace.us Sun., 10:30am & 2pm (Spanish), 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

5808 Lynn Rd., Tampa, 33624 813-610-6554

www.myextraordinarylifechurch.com

Sun., 9:45am, 12:30pm (Spanish)

Faith Family Worship Center

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

Faith Life Church

4902 East Busch Blvd., Tampa, 33617 813-910-7336, www.flctampa.org Sun., 9:30 & 11am, Wed. & Thurs., 7pm

Family Harvest Worship Church

Meeting at Benito Middle School 10101 Cross Creek Blvd., 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 Church of Midway

2902 Midway Road, Plant City, 33565 813-752-7209, www.fbcmidway.org Sun., 10:30am

30 OverflowMag.com January 2013

Meeting at Hampton Inn 2740 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-389-0238, www.floodgateschurch.org Sun., 10:30am

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., 8:45am, 10:30am & 12:15pm

Grace Life Church

1930 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Lutz, 33549 813-393-0514, www.gracelifetampa.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm, & Fri., 7pm (Youth)

Grow Life Church

Meeting at Veterans Elementary School 26940 Progress Pkwy., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-406-8963, www.growlifechurch.com Sun., 9:30am & 11:15am

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

Joining Hands Mission Church

3214 US Highway 19, Holiday, 34691 727-264-1288, www.jhmissionchurch.org Sun., 10am

JTB Ministries/The Daily Word

38621 Calvin Ave., Zephyrhills, 33542 813-285-1846, www.jtbministries.com Sat., 6pm

Kaleomark Church

Meeting at Seven Oaks Clubhouse 2910 Sports Core Circle, Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-310-8794, www.kaleomark.org Sun., 10:15am

Keystone Community Church

21010 State Road 54, Lutz, 33558 813-962-4522, www.keystonecommunity.org Sun., 9:30am & 10:30am

Kingdom Worship Center

Oakwood Community Church

Terrace Palms Community Church

Legacy Church

Oasis World Outreach

The Gathering

12332 University Mall Court, Tampa, 33613 813-443-5720, www.kwctoday.com Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm 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, 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

Manhattan Baptist Church

4300 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa, 33611 813-831-1951, www.manhattanbaptist.org Sun., 9:30am, 10:45am, Wed., 6:30pm Spanish Service - Sun., 9:30am

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, 2nd & 4th Fri., 7pm

NorthBridge Church

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

North Pointe Church

2427 Old Cypress Creek Rd., Land O' Lakes, 34639 813-545-9420, www.thenpc.org Sun., 9:15 am & 11am

Northwest Tampa Church of God 5131 Gunn Highway, Tampa, 33624 813-961-7278, www.nwtcog.cc Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

Oak Grove United Methodist Church 2707 West Waters Ave., Tampa, 33614 813-935-4471 www.gbgm-umc.org/oakgroveumc Sun., 9:30am

9620 Davis Rd., Tampa, 33637 813-985-9279, www.terracepalms.org Sun., 9am & 10:30am, Wed., 7pm

11209 Casey Rd., Tampa, 33618 813-969-2303, www.oakwoodfl.org Sun., 10:30am 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, 9:40am, & 11am

Perfected Love International Fellowship 10960 N. 56th Street, Temple Terrace, 33617 813-443-5107, www.perfectedlove.org Sun., 11am, Wed., 7pm

Real Life Church

6821 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33634 813-243-2333, www.thereallifechurch.com Sun., 8:30am & 10am

Reality Church Tampa

1000 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-228-8700, www.realitychurchtampa.com Sun., 10am

Remix Family Church

Meeting at Campo Family YMCA 3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico, 33596 813-661-2273, www.remixfamilychurch.com Sun., 10am

Revival Worship Church

9270 Bay Plaza Blvd., Suite 600, Tampa, 33619 813-621-8886, www.revivalworshipchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm, Fri., 7pm

39348 US Hwy 19 N., Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-942-2383, www.wearethegathering.com Sat., 6:30pm

Torre Fuerte Tampa

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

Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel

33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898, www.trinitychurchnow.com Sun., 10:15am & 12:34pm

Trinity Presbyterian Church

14925 North Boulevard, Tampa, 33616 813-961-5836, www.trinitytampa.com Sun., 9:30am, 11am & 6pm, Wed., 6:15pm

Van Dyke Church

17030 Lakeshore Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-968-3983, www.vandyke.org Sat., 6pm, Sun., 9:30am & 11am

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

River of Life

Water’s Edge Church

Shoresh David Messianic Synagogues

Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church

410 Chapman Rd. East, Lutz, 33549 813-949-9931, www.riveroflife-lutz.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm 813-831-5673, www.shoreshdavid.org Tampa: 4320 Bay to Bay Blvd., 33269 Fri., 7:30pm, Sat., 11am, Tues., 6pm Wesley Chapel: 33425 SR 54, 33543 Fri., 7:30pm Brandon: 4929 Bell Shoals Rd., 33596 Fri., 7:30pm

St. James House of Prayer Episcopal 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, Tues., 7pm

Zephyrhills First Assembly

2708 N. Central Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-223-6090, www.sjhoptpa.org Sun., 9am & 11:30am

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

St. James Methodist Church

16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-971-4790, www.stjamestampa.org Sun., 9:30am, 11am & 12:30pm

Tampa Covenant Church

30200 Overpass Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-994-5000, www.connectingfaith.com Sun., 11am, Wed., Kids 6:30pm, Adults 7pm

13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd., Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979, www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, 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 visit overflowmag.com/submissions/submit-your-church.

January 2013 Love+Faith+Hope