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5 Joys of Being Single Society seems to push us towards coupledom. But Philela Singama says nah, she ain’t nobody’s bae and she’s lovin’ it. PG 17 May 2016

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When It’s Time To Give Up Some of life’s greatest personal baggage exists because of an inability to let go. Maybe its time to give something up. PG 14

A Lifetime of Serving Others Dr. Timothy Rutz has dedicated his life to serving those considered society’s outcasts. He has been chosen as the American Jail Association’s Volunteer of the Year. PG 2

HOW LOW CAN YOU GO? ANOTHER SECRET TO A BETTER MARRIAGE by KIRK FREEMAN, Pastor CrossBridge Community Church

Don’t Sweat the Summer Find free things to do in the San Antonio area on our new website, www.saBeacon.com

Remember that old time beach party game, limbo? You walk under the bar, and each time, the bar drops lower and lower. Ultimately, the person who goes the lowest, wins. There’s a truth in that game that can help you have a better marriage. It’s the principle of getting low, adopting the heart of a servant, and looking out for the needs of your spouse first.

The concept sounds a little counter intuitive, right? It’s much more natural for us to look out for ourselves and ensure that our needs or interests are met. But in a marriage, this doesn’t work very well. When we put the other person first, making an intentional effort to make them feel loved—in essence, lowering ourselves—we generally find a remarkable truth emerges: the more loved our spouse feels, the more they love us back. When our spouse feels confident in our

love, they have more love to give back to us. We see this principle at work all the time; the friendlier you are to people, the more friendly they are back to you. It works even more powerfully in marriage. When we serve or help or affirm or listen attentively to our spouse, we are filling them up with love from which they will draw and love us back. I’m not talking about manipulating your spouse to get something, I’m talking about genuinely loving them and taking the continued on page 2

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HAPPENINGS

A Lifetime of Serving Others The retired physician still rises early at least two days of the week. By 7 a.m. he’s reviewing the list of those he needs to see. He heads for the elevator pushing a plastic bin full of Bibles and gospel pamphlets. His “patients” these days are Bexar County jail inmates. In March, T.I.M.E. for Christ Jail Ministry received the news that one of their volunteers, Timothy Rutz, M.D., was chosen as Volunteer of the Year by the American Jail Association, a national non-profit organization that supports professionals who operate the nation’s jails. On May 24th, Rutz will be recognized in

MARRIAGE

HOW LOW CAN YOU GO?

continued from front

Dr. Rutz spends much of his retirement as a volunteer with T.I.M.E. for Christ Jail Ministry in San Antonio. BeaconAd_April.pdf 1 3/22/16 10:08 AM (2016 photos are courtesy of Bexar County Detention Center)

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*The T.I.M.E. acronym stands for: teaching; intercession; ministry; & evangelism.

position of a servant. And by the way, husbands, we need to take the lead in this. Instead of using our voice, size or strength to be “in charge,” we need to show our wives and our children how precious they are to God by humbling ourselves and serving them. (More on this another time...) One additional note...past hurts can make practicing servanthood hard, especially if the wounds have come from your spouse. Forgiving them may be the first important step of serving them. Some wounds will require more work to identify or forgive. In this case, an inner healing ministry at a local church, a recovery class or a Christian counselor may be a good step. However you do it, get healthy, and then make it a priority to look for ways to make your spouse feel special. Try to express love in ways you think will be meaningful to your spouse and not just ways that are meaningful or natural to you. And keep it up! Remember, you’re not wasting your time...loving and serving your spouse is one of the best ways to equip them to love you better. So, how low can you go?

Austin, Texas, at the annual convention for Detention Centers from all over the United States. He will represent all volunteers in the U.S. Prison System. Chaplain Ted White, who oversees Protestant ministry at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center, says the T.I.M.E.* staff is “bursting with pride; and it’s an honor for the jail too.” But they’re not at all surprised. “The inmates “The inmates call him Tim; lot of them don’t call him Tim; even aknow he’s a doctor,” a lot of them White says. “Tim is overly loving toward the don’t even inmates. And he’s the know he’s a most energetic person—a machine. It’s a joy for doctor…” everyone to watch him.” Dr. Rutz has dedicated his life to serving those considered society’s outcasts. He became an anesthesiologist with the goal of medical missions and only moonlighted in the field in order to support the mission work. The 75-year-old and his wife, Nancy, moved to San Antonio in 1973 to work with T.I.M.E. for Christ Medical Ministries, which included setting up mobile operating rooms for work in Mexico. Over the years Rutz became involved with jail ministry to help drug addicts, who typically ended up in jail. Nearly 40 years ago, he helped establish the T.I.M.E. for Christ Jail Ministry, which included financial support needed to maintain a full-time chaplain. That support was a major contribution to the growth and success of the jail ministry, according to Chaplain White. In the last ten years alone, around 340,000 inmates have attended their services and more than 8,500 have been baptized. When Rutz retired from medical mission work in 2010, he became a regular volunteer at the detention center. He’s one of currently 80 men and women who serve with T.I.M.E. for Christ. Dr. Rutz puts in 8-10 hours on his days at the jail, which includes teaching Bible classes and—by request—visiting men in the units for one-on-one discipleship and encouragement. The chaplain says Rutz also spends many more hours developing biblically solid lessons that emphasize the abundant life available to all believers through “Christ in you” (Colossians 1:27). Receptive inmates, whether they are later sentenced to prison or released, can go out with a grounded faith. But it takes the commitment of volunteers to reach so many.

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Dr. Timothy Rutz is the American Jail Association’s Volunteer of the Year

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ENTERTAINMENT

Conroe Singer-Songwriter Finds Mentoring More Significant than Fame

PUBLISHER: Full Armor Media CONTENT DIRECTORS: Pam Leslie, Amy Morgan ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Melody McCrea COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST: Todd Reid COMMUNITY MANAGER: Blake Clifton CIRCULATION: Greg Wharton CREATIVE/PRODUCTION: The Roberts Goup CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Amanda Graves, Jim Faulk, Kirk Freeman, Darryl Lyons, Patti Richter THE BEACON OFFICE: P.O. Box 591490 San Antonio, Texas 78259 PH: (210) 614-8884 FAX: (210) 614-8885 ONLINE: www.saBeacon.com MISSION STATEMENT To deliver hope, inspiration and change happening all around us through relevant articles from local and national writer, news sources, and Beacon staff. We strive to be recognized as the forum for family-oriented community events and activities, directories for area churches, schools, charities, businesses, and camps.

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by AMANDA GRAVES, Contributing Writer

“Every now and then, one comes along. One of those singers that you remember the first time you heard them for the rest of your life. Ok, that’s a dramatic statement. But those are the emotions that I am feeling right now upon hearing this jewel of a singer-songwriter named Shellee Coley.” Music News Austin Shellee Coley is one impressive lady, although she is far too modest to say so. Texas born and bred, she followed her dream of becoming a Christian singer-songwriter all the way to Nashville, where she attended Belmont College and was on the verge of signing a record deal. The downside: she would have to give up creative control of her music. Making the difficult decision to walk away led her in a direction she could never have imagined. Although Coley had never thought of herself as a mentor, that’s exactly what she has become. Drawing on the inspiration of a favorite teacher, she began teaching at songwriting Making the camp and quickly realized that there was a need for difficult teen and pre-teen girls to decision to have a safe space where they could come together walk away and talk about issues their daily lives, led her in a affecting as well as learn about the direction she music business. In 2012 she began could never working with young songwriters, teaching at camps have holding private classes imagined. and at Red Tree Recording Studio and with Real Life, Real Music. Considering her work with aspiring young artists to be some of the most important she does, Coley encourages students to find their own way in the music industry, which can be difficult to navigate. Born out of that work, she also started her own company called Circle Sessions; a creative arts mentoring program for girls and women. In these small circle sessions, Coley encourages the girls to “shine your light,” build each other up and to get to know themselves as individuals and within a group setting. She uses journaling exercises, games and art projects to gain a better understanding of their emotional intelligence. The focus is not just on music or

faith, though Coley sees both as vital parts of the process. Many of the participants may be struggling with faith as they go through the difficult teenage years, so she tries to create safe spaces for them to share their thoughts on all subjects. Coley is quite open about her journey. WatchConroe Singer-Songwriter, ing teenagers Mentor, Shellee Coley struggle with their identity, she poses this question: if you don’t know yourself, how can you know God? She encourages transparency and honesty, seeing herself not as a guide but more as a companion along their learning curve. In the past several years Coley has spent most of her time playing regionally, but also toured through Tennessee, North Carolina and up the East Coast, opening for Mark Germino at The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville,

as well as being one of the featured supporting songwriters at the 2014 Dripping

Album cover of Shellee Coley’s upcoming release.

Springs Songwriters Festival. She is currently working at Red Tree Recording Studio as the Creative Director as well as recording a new EP, slated for release late 2016. For a free download of her music, go to https:// noisetrade.com/shelleecoleymusic.

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Program Guide MONDAY - FRIDAY

Thru The Bible Renewing Your Mind Truth For Life Focus On The Family Insight For Living Leading The Way Family Life Today Grace To You Turning Point Pathway To Victory Jay Sekulow Live Hope For The Heart John Hagee Today Somebody Loves You Messianic Perspectives Key Life Real Life Radio Chris Brown’s True Stewardship Living God Ministries The Eric Metexas Show The Word to Stand of for Life Maranatha Bible Church Richard Ellis Talks Grace Revealed Hope For Life Calvary Current Focus On The Family The Word On Investing Pentecostes Sigue su Marcha Hope in the Night

J. Vernon McGee R.C. Sproul Alistair Begg Jim Daly Chuck Swindoll Michael Youssef Dennis Rainey John MacArthur David Jeremiah Robert Jeffress Jay Sekulow June Hunt John Hagee - Cornerstone Church Raul Ries Gary Hedrick Steve Brown Sean Azzaro - River City Chris Brown Aaron Budjen Eric Metaxas Ron Arbaugh - Calvary Chapel Rander Draper - Maranatha Bible Church Richard Ellis J.D. Link - Abundant Grace Steve Leavitt Bunjee Garrett- Calvary South Austin Jim Daly David Mitchell George Weber - Templo Pentecostal June Hunt

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Jonathan Park Creation Adventures Focus On The Family Kurt Hudspeth Kathleen Whitten Marc Longoria Elieen Vincent - City Reachers C12 Group - Mike Sharrow Mac Greiner Larry Linenschmidt Bunjee Garrett - Calvary South Austin Gary Johnson KSLR Scott Lane & Terry Read Sean Azzaro - River City David Mitchell Philip Sundar Johnson Varkey Mike & Cris Sosso - Freedom Fellowship Les Hollon - Trinity Baptist John Fuller Hugh Hewitt Rander Draper - Maranatha Bible Church Steve Brown Todd Grainger Tom Covino

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Calvary Current Road To Reality Saving Souls Living Your Best Life Bible Baptist Hour Holy Ground Revival Ministry Grace To You - Weekend Kathleen Whitten Ministries High Resolution KSLR’s Church Of The Week Leading the Way - Weekend His Life Revealed

Bunjee Garrett - Calvary South Austin K.P. Yohannan Tom Covino Les Hollon - Trinity Baptist Lasserre Bradley Jr. C.C. Risenhoover GD Coppedge John MacArthur Kathleen Whitten Kurt Hudspeth - Four Winds Marc Longoria Michael Youssef Todd Grainger - His Life Ministries

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2:30pm

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Steps of SA City Hall

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The Safe Money Retirement Show

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The Word On Investing The Cross at Kerrville Phophetic Voice Of Our Time Abortion Hurts God Heals Pure Sex Radio Richard Ellis Talks

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M AY 2016 — B E A CO N

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BUSINESS

C12 President Speaks to Local Author of Small Business, Big Pressure When did you have your breakthrough moment from being a Christian in business to having a Christ-centered approach? My breakthrough moment occurred when I had a series of identity crises that shook me as a business guy, a man, a husband and a father. I couldn’t outwit the anxiety, and I couldn’t outlook it. I needed God. I needed more than a God who was there at dinner time or before I went to bed. I needed the God that I can depend on moment by moment in all areas of my life.

BY: MIKE SHARROW, WITH DARRYL LYONS

I was first introduced to Darryl Lyons and Joseph Schuetze of Pax Financial Group while then a pastor at Grace Point Church kicking the tires on a financial planning firm highly endorsed by the Dave Ramsey organization in 2008. The unique values and vision they operated by quickly won my confidence and business. Years later we found ourselves in The C12 Group together, and I have watched God not only catalyze a lot of truth and life in them and their business, but leverage their story to impact thousands of others. When Lyons committed to writing this book I was encouraged by his willingness to be vulnerable and share the kind of practical insights that could literally change the lives of those who read it and those who work for the folks who read it! With Small Business, Big Pressure recently in its second printing, I sat down with Lyons to ask him a few questions about the book.

Why did you take the time to write this book, Darryl? As our company grew we began to get recognition in the community. We were considered one of the fastest growing companies and one of the best places to work. There were many calls and conversations from entrepreneurs asking about marketing, operations, systems, and employees. Instead of just having back-to-back cups of coffee and phone conversations, I taught free classes to the community. The book is a byproduct of the content of these classes. Explain the title, Small Business, Big Pressure Every entrepreneur experiences a tremendous amount of worry, pressure, and confusion. It is part of the journey, and it doesn’t just happen in the start-up phase.

Mike Sharrow, president of the C12 Group, a unique forum for Christian CEOs and business owners, with author Darryl Lyons.

How a small business owner responds to this pressure is the difference between life or death. Some entrepreneurs choose substance abuse or destructive lifestyles. Pressure is real and only magnified in a small business environment.

What kind of issues do you address in the book? I cover four major topics. (1) Destination. We need to clearly identify where we are going (2) Dollars. Entrepreneurs live and die by cash flow. (3) Dialogue. We must ensure that our communication with all stakeholders is clear and expectations are aligned (4) Identity. The company must have an intentional and authentic belief system to make a true impact in the community.

What are the major differences of a “faithbased approach” to career pursuits? Its really just a journey of trusting God. When we trust God as doors close and when doors open, there is sense of relief. We know by faith that God is aware and he’s good. The alternative is perpetual frustration as life tends to take us down paths we didn’t anticipate. A faith-based approach recognizes that a man’s heart plans his way but ultimately the Lord directs his path. Where do you struggle most with remaining dependent upon Christ? Believe it or not, I’ve built up a lot of Christ confidence in business. It’s not perfect, but it is way better than before. It’s

family that I struggle with right now. Trusting God that he’s in control of my children’s future is the hardest part. But that is the journey with Christ… total dependence in all areas. Sometimes we let Him clean some rooms of the house but not others.

If you could encourage or challenge someone overwhelmed in business with two things, what would they be? Worry less. We worry about things we can’t control or things that may not happen. The one regret I have in life is the amount of worry I have had and the decisions that resulted from fear. The other thing I would suggest is to take inventory of the people you hang out with. You’re the average of your five closest friends. How can folks find out more or get help responding to these ideas? Certainly go to my website, www.smallbusinessbigpressure.com. I am active on LinkedIn, connect with me there, as I write a column once a week on LinkedIn. Also, there are many podcasts available to listen where I share my story. A simple Google search will get you access to them. Lastly, my spiritual mentor, Bill Loveless, has incredible resources at www.ChristIsLifeMinistries.com.

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Tune in Saturdays for Beacon Radio

An immersion camp that...

Tune in to the new Beacon Radio show Saturdays at noon on KSLR AM630. Steve Teel will host local and national difference makers who will share their stories and insights to give you hope, inspiration, and change. Steve is the pastor of Momentum Bible Church, author, and founder of Very Bold Ministries. Steve@saBeacon.com

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Seth Kuehn, President & Founder of Daily Bread Ministries

Gilbert Hernandez, CEO of San Antonio Youth for Christ

May 14

May 28

Carl Caton, Leader of the San Antonio Marriage Initiative (SAMI)

LTG Leroy Sisco (Ret), CEO and founder of Military Warriors Support Foundation

M AY 2016 — B E A CO N

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WOMEN

Why I Don’t Think We Need To “Be More Real” On Social Media BY JEN WISE

I was broken up with a few years ago. The email came from a distant friend. It was a loose connection to begin with, but our friendship was officially terminated when she determined that when I posted photos of food and meals on Facebook it was with the intention of making her feel bad. I tried to explain that all of us feel weird sometimes when we view other people’s lives online—I tried to tell her that when I saw photos of her out to dinner with friends and sisters I cried because at that time I was painfully lonely. But2016 that was that, and with a few Design for May clicks of the keyboard I was cut off. For good. While I was confused, she was, apparently, not alone in her sentiment. The internet is booming with blog posts, articles, and conversations telling us to “be more real.” Nothing will garner you more shares and praise than really laying into other woman for sharing a photo of an amazing night out, well dressed children, or a clean, well decorated home.

What is Wrong With This Picture? we’ve cultivated this pressure 1/4Somehow page ad to excuse away the good, talk down our suc-

cesses, and balance anything we’ve done right with a disaster of equal proportion. As women, we aren’t free to share the bright spots of life because it might just make someone else feel dim. I’ve spent much of my post-high school life learning to accept a compliment, shine in my strengths, be gracious about my weaknesses, and comfortable in my own skin. Isn’t this what every women’s leadership article has told us to do? So why this strange backlash of having to excuse away the good things in our lives and in ourselves? Over the last few years I’ve come across countless articles admonishing other women to “take off the mask” or “be real.” These types of articles are wildly popular. One writer felt compelled to “come clean” after she had posted a photo of a loaf of bread she had baked, because she had not divulged that she’d burnt her hand on the oven. The guilt was eating her up for having been so fake. I can’t even. A few days later I stumbled upon an article from another female writer admitting the error of her ways: she had posted photos of a day at the beach with her children, but hadn’t shared that her kids had bickered over

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a football for much of the morning. In an effort to make amends she walked us through every negative or embarrassing moment from her day, taking on a brash tone and definitely oversharing (No, I do not think you owe us the details of your menstrual flow in the name of “being real,” thank you.) While reading each of these accounts I felt frustrated—what kind of pressure are we living under? Kitchen flubs, bickering kids, behind-the-scenes drama and stress and struggle… aren’t these things a part of life? Do we really need to announce them to the world? But these are the articles that get attention. These are the blog posts that go viral—particularly among women.

What We Really Want If we’re honest though, I don’t think the popularity of this sentiment rests in our desire to be challenged to drop our own “masks of perfection.” The popularity rests in that they validate our desire to rip off the masks we perceive on others. We’re searching for proof that everyone else out there has just as many mishaps, failures, and struggles as us. We are dying to see each other’s imperfections so we can feel better about our own. If we can just convince ourselves that what we’re seeing is fake, a show, then we’ll feel ok. If we can just believe that this person couldn’t truly be happy, couldn’t honestly get along with their spouse that well, couldn’t really be that successful professionally… well, we’d feel a lot better about ourselves then, wouldn’t we? The thing is, we’re right in thinking this is only part of the picture. Of course that friend with the gorgeous house and endless wardrobe has problems. Or course your coworker who is out with friends every weekend struggles in her own way. But why should we demand a public display of their weaknesses just to feel ok with their strengths? It’s Not You, It’s Me When we’re sitting up on the throne of judgment we fail to recognize one important thing: our automatic cry of “Fake!” when confronted with a success, something beautiful, something we wish we did, says more about us than about the person we’re judging. This is the same reason why I can’t bear another article on the evils of Pinterest: if browsing Pinterest makes you feel insecure, inadequate, and discontent, the issue is your heart, not your home. I am right with you. There are times when browsing social media sends me into a tail-

Photo Credit - Jon Wise

spin of jealousy, discontentment, and judgement. The thing i’m learning though, is that the issue is not with that friend who walked into my dream career, or the sister with 0% body fat, the issue is with me. The heart of the problem is my contentment and gratitude with what God has given me. It’s my own body image issues. It’s my gross desire for more and better. Next time we’re browsing online and feel the bubble of judgment building in our chests, and our vocal chords prepare for a giant cry of “Fake!” take a deep breath and repeat: It’s not you, it’s me. True friendships thrive not on the others’ weaknesses (and the ability of those weaknesses to make us feel better about our own) but on each other’s strengths and gifts—our ability to bring forth the best in one another and spur one another on to reach new heights.

Transparency and Friendship Yes, friendships are also open and transparent about struggles, flops, and failures. But let’s be honest, those 700 people from your online profile are not “true friendships” and have no rights to your personal life. Share a funny disaster, an amazing success at work, a crazy photo when a laundry bomb goes off in your house, and that amazing selfie from a girls night out. Share what you enjoy, share what helps you connect—most importantly, only share what you feel comfortable with in a public sphere. Because the internet is not you and your girlfriends out for coffee—don’t be guilted into acting like it is. Maybe rather than looking for imperfections in others to soothe our egos, let’s look at our hearts. Let’s cheer each other on and be one another’s biggest fans. Don’t all of us needs all the support we can get? Let’s not give in to the pressure to excuse away the good parts of our day and the good parts of ourselves. Let’s give our friends and ourselves permission to enjoy and celebrate successes, happy moments, and beautiful snippets of life. Reprinted with permission. Jen Wise is a compassionate theologian, obsessive foodie, constant hostess and voracious reader. She attended Cornerstone University and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary earning a MA in Theology. Jen is the managing editor of Restoration Living. She lives with her husband and their two sons in Philadelphia. Catch up with her on twitter @jenlwise.

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MEN

PETS

Fight Club

Top Reasons Pets See Vets

I am reading through Chuck Palahniuk’s, Fight Club. It was made into a movie, starring Brad Pitt. The movie is dark, and yet enlightening, and so far, so is the book. It speaks to the rage of the young men we are around, and I know myself. Along with the confusion of what to do about it. Image credit: bowie15 / 123RF Stock Photo Here’s a quote… launch into whatever next “season” is sup“My father never went to college so it was posed to come. Get a job. Get married. Setreally important I go to college. After college, I tle down. All these things being good. But called him long distance and said, now what? few of us discover, what we really want...our My dad didn’t know. When I got a job and father. Love. Guidance. turned twenty-five, long distance, I said, now I think that is what happens to so many what? My dad didn’t know, so he said, get young men out of school. The pressure, and married. I’m a thirty-year-old boy, and I’m expectations. With little real world experiwondering if another woman is really the ence, and wisdom. They launch out for answer I need.” these things, only to come out 30 years later, Isn’t that our dilemma. We are angry. We empty, and in a crisis. May God help us resare often more boyish, and uninitiated, and cue, and restore these young men to see unfinished than we want to admit. No wontheir need for guidance, fathering, and the der this character goes off to fight club. He one who saves us from gaining the whole has never had a father leading him, walking world, but losing our soul. near. It can be too easy in our culture for fathers to come from a distance with their Reprinted with permission (from “Of Blood and Dirt”). sons. Advice. And tips. But truly what we Xan Hood is an author, speaker and the co-director of Training Ground, for CrossTrain Sports need is our father, and fathers around us, Advertisement an experiential discipleship program for young men. He is also the Ad size: 1/4 page and Our Heavenly Father. founder of the clothing startup, Buffalo Jackson Trading Co. He lives in I have found most young men just Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife and three daughters.

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From Fun To Tough Ten and Under (4-10) Tennis Camp. Mon-Thurs. 9am-1pm. Learn tennis, get moving and have fun during your Summer Break by playing tennis. Includes instruction, games, arts & crafts and outdoor pool time. Junior Tennis Academy (11 -18). All levels welcome. Mon-Thurs. 10am-2pm. Learn tennis, get moving and have fun during your Summer Break by playing tennis. Includes on-court instruction, drills, & monitored play. Crosstrain’s Tournament Tough Academy. Mon.-Thurs. 12pm-4:30pm. Designed for the competitive player that desires to compete at their highest level. This program’s sole purpose is to prepare you to compete at your best during tournament play, to make you tournament tough. Our hope is that this will carryover in achieving a top ranking and more opportunities for collegiate athletic scholarships. Tues & Thurs. sessions include CrossTrain spiritual training for all camps.

BY DR. SHAWN MESSONNIER

According to several studies done by pet insurance companies, the most common reaCredits - Jan Dix / Public Domain sons pets see their doctors, other than for vaccines (which we know most pets don’t disease and slowing down its progression. need) are… As an example, a pet with elevated kidney Skin problems, GI problems, Urinary enzymes but not yet sick can’t be helped by a Problems, Behavior Issues, Cancer , Epilepsy, conventional doctor because there are no Arthritis drugs to treat this pet. Holistic medicine can Fortunately, all of these things are easily do much to help restore this pet to health and identified early, BEFORE your pet becomes in most cases prevent kidney failure. When ill, with a simple examination and a few basic we recognize subtle abnormalities we treat lab tests. Any problems discovered during your pet immediately rather than wait for the these tests are easily treated, usually without problem to progress and then treat the pet harmful drugs and chemicals, simply by when it’s really sick. This early intervention using a few natural therapies. approach is just one of the many reasons our A major difference between conventional patients tend to live 3-5 years longer than and holistic medicine is that conventional pets only treated with conventional therapies. doctors CAN’T treat a pet until a disease is present. Unfortunately, the presence of dis*Reproduced with permission. Dr. Messonnier, a 1987 graduate of Texas ease indicates a problem has been present A&M College of Veterinary Medicine, opened Paws & Claws Animal Hospital and undiagnosed for a period of time and (Plano, TX) in 1991. He is the DVM Past Supporting Member, Oncology faith. family. community. then finally clinical signs appear. This means Association of Naturopathic Physicians Author, the award-winning The Natthat when a pet shows signs of illness the ural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and disease is no longer in its early stages but in Treating Cancer in Dogs, and Breast Choices for the Best Chances: Your Proposed 1/4At page Designs for March its later stages. this point it’s usually not 2016 Breasts, Your Life, and How YOU Can Win The Battle! Check out Dr. Shawn’s possible to reverse the disease, although nat- line of all natural pet products at...www.drshawnsnaturals.com. enter code ural therapies are still helpful in arresting the “drshawn” to save 10% on all your future purchases!

A place to learn… Now Enrolling for Fall 2016

• Professional staff • Spacious and clean classrooms designed for creativity and functionality, and generously supplied with age-appropriate learning resources • Covered playgrounds

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Call (210) 653-2800 today to reserve your child’s place.

A place to worship…

www.ymcasatx.com

Contact: Scott @ scottm@ymcasatx.org for more info.

A place you can call home. Come as you are; find people who accept you as you are, and grow to become everything God wants you to be. Sunday 9:00 am – Café Church | Sunday 10:30 am – Worship Service | Wednesday 6:45 pm – Adults, Youth & Awana trinitychurch.com | 5415 N Loop 1604 E | Easy 1604 access between 281 and 35

M AY 2016 — B E A CO N

Area Churches A F R I C A N M E T H O D I S T E P I S C O PA L

Hodges Chapel A.M.E. 401 Gulf St, San Antonio 78202

(210) 224-0665

ANGLICAN

All Saints Anglican Church 11122 Link Dr., SA 78213 (210) 344-1920 www.allsaintanglican.net APOSTOLIC-PROPHETIC

Arise Family Church 4218 Thousand Oaks, SA 78217 (512) 451-8260 www.arisefamilychurch.com A S S E M B LY O F G O D

First Assembly of God 13435 West Ave., SA 78216 (210) 496-9977 Living Springs Assembly Of God 151 Purple Sage Rd, Bandera 78003 (830) 796-7932 Northwest Assembly of God 2714 Hunters Green, SA 78231 (210)492-5531 Victory Assembly Of God 1017 W Byrd Blvd, Universal City 78148 (210) 659-3251 BAPTIST

Calvary Baptist Church 6142 Fm 78, San Antonio 78244 (210) 222-1541 Castle Hills First Baptist Church 2220 NW Military Hwy, SA 78213 (210) 377-8485 Central Baptist Church 1226 S. Presa St., SA 78224 (210) 533-5882 www.freewebs.com/centralbaptistchruch Converse First Baptist Church 9162 FM 78, Converse 78109 (210) 658-2891 Elmendorf First Baptist Church 7795 FM 327, Elmendorf 78112 (210) 665-2113 www.efbconline.org First Baptist Church Universal City 1401 Pat Booker Rd., Universal City 78148 (210) 658-6394 Grace Point Church Medical Center 9650 Huebner Road, SA 78249 (210) 696-6093 www.gracepoint.org Grace Point Church- West Campus 8531 Leslie Rd SA 78254 (210) 363-8932 www.gracepoint.org Helotes Independent Baptist 15335 Orange Tower Dr, Helotes 78023 (210) 695-2321 Hondo First Baptist 2400 Ave P, Hondo 78661 (830) 426-4047 Iglesia Bautista Hispana 1226 E Borgfeld Dr, SA 78260 (830) 438-3081 Lytle First Baptist 16827 N Prairie St, Lytle 78052 (830) 709-2202 Resurrection Baptist Church 1002 E Live Oak Rd, Schertz 78154 (210) 658-0459 www.myrbconline.org/

w w w.saB eaco n.co m South San Filadelfia Baptist Church 2483 W. Southcross, SA 78211 (210) 225-7537 www.myssfc.org Southeast Baptist Church 2414 S WW White Rd, SA 78222 (210) 333-6304 Trinity Baptist Church San Antonio 3233 N Saint Marys St, SA 78212 (210) 736-0969 True Life Church 202 W Byrd Blvd, Universal City 78148 (210) 658-5945 www.livetruelife.church C AT H O L I C

St Gabriel Catholic Church 747 SW 39th St, SA 78237

(210) 433-3689

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Dellcrest Church of Christ 1550 S WW White Rd., SA 78220 Liberty View Church Of Christ 1719 Burleson, SA 78202 (210) 251-2325 Northside Church of Christ 19818 US Highway 281 N, SA 78258 (210) 494-1908 www.nscoc.org CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

Dominion Church of God In Christ 3023 Martin Luther King Dr, San Antonio 78220 (210) 226-2932 CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

Thompson Chapel C.O.G.I.C. 903 S Palmetto, SA 78210

(210) 533-7849

E VA N G E L I C A L F R E E

Northeast Bible Church 19185 FM 2252, Garden Ridge 78266 www.nebible.net FOURSQUARE

Lifehouse Church 20825 Wilderness Oak, San Antonio 78258 (210) 499-5775 www.lifehouseSA.com I N T E R - D E N O M I N AT I O N A L

Community Bible Church 2477 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio 78232 (210) 496-5096 www.communitybible.com Community Bible Church Brooks 3005 Sidney Brooks St, SA 78235 (210) 534-1764 www.communitybible.com Community Bible Church Northwest 8118 Tezel Rd, San Antonio 78250 (210) 509-1800 www.communitybible.com Trinity Church 5415 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio 78247 (210) 653-0003 www.trinitychurch.com LUTHERAN

Christ the King Lutheran 1129 Pat Booker Rd, SA 78148 (210) 658-2254 Good News Lutheran Church 11020 Old Corpus Christi Hwy, SA 78223 (210) 633-0551 LUTHERAN-MISSOURI SYNOD

Concordia Lutheran Church 16801 Huebner Rd, SA78258 (210) 479-1477 www.concordialutheranchurch.com

Mt Calvary Lutheran 308 Mt Calvary Dr, San Antonio 78209 (210) 824-8748 www.mtcsa.org N O N - D E N O M I N AT I O N A L

Abundant Life Church 5626 Randolph Blvd #1, San Antonio 78233 (210) 650-4816 www.abundantlifechurchsa.org Cornerstone Church 18755 Stone Oak Pkwy, SA 78258 (210) 490-1600 www.sacornerstone.org/ Crossbridge Community Church 25700 Overlook Pkwy, San Antonio 78260 (210) 496-0158 www.crossbridgecommunitychurch.com/ Destiny Church 8635 Callaghan, San Antonio 78230 (210) 349-2295 www.destinychurch.cc Faith Outreach Center International 3806 Sunshine Ranch Rd., San Antonio 78228 www.faith-outreach.org Grace Community Church Universal City 701 Kitty Hawk Rd, Universal City 78148 (210) 659-8200 www.grace-sa.org Harvest Fellowship Community Church 16111 San Pedro, SA 78232 www.harvestfellowship.org House Of Living Bread Church 18940 Redland Rd, SA 78259 (210) 402-6500 Oak Hills Church - Crownridge 19595 West Ih 10, San Antonio 78256 (210) 698-6868 www.oakhillschurch.com/crownridge Oak Hills Church - Journey Fellowship 16847 Interstate 35 N # 3, Selma 78154 (210) 651-1463 www.oakhillschurch.com/journeyfellowship Oak Hills Church - North Central 814 Arion Parkway, Suite 410, SA 78216 (210) 698-4689 www.oakhillschurch.com/northcentral Oak Hills Church - Westside 321 N General Mcmullen Dr, SA 78237 (210) 433-1484 www.oakhillschurch.com/westside Summit Christian Center 2575 Marshall Rd, SA 78259 (210) 402-0565 www.summitsa.com The Living Word of God Christian Church 608 Schertz Parkway, Schertz 78154 (210) 468-3609 Victory Outreach Church 851 Hammond Ave, SA 78210 (210) 533-7060 OTHER

Alamo City Christian Fellowship Church 6500 IH 35 North, SA 78218 www.alamocity.org Alamo Heights Christian Church 6435 N. New Braunfels Ave., SA 78209 (210) 828-5728 Church Alive 18850 Redland Road, San Antonio 78259 (210) 490-1770 www.sachurchalive.com/ Crossroads Community Church 5834 Ray Ellison, San Antonio 78242 (210) 623-4500 www.wherelifechanges.com/ Divine Fellowship 200 So Camp, Seguin 78155 (210) 632-4448 First Christian Church 201 Harriman Place, San Antonio 78204 (210) 226-8545 Friendship Center 217 Pleasanton, San Antonio 78214 (210) 367-6243 Grace Bible Church La Vernia 390 FM 1346 S, La Vernia 78121 (830) 779-5200 Grace Tabernacle Church 3630 SE Military Dr, SA 78223 (210) 534-7080 www.gracepraise.org/ Hope Fellowship Christian Church 4836 Rittiman Rd, SA 78218 (210) 370-3397 https://www.facebook.com/HopeFellowshipSA/ Iglesia Cristiana Oasis de Amor 11333 West Ave, SA 78213 (210) 653-9048 Iglesia de Hogar 1071 W Kirk Place, SA 78214 (210) 433-9993 Iglesia El Jordan 13003 SW Loop 410, SA 78224 (210) 628-4772 Iglesia Vision Y Restauracion 1845 Donaldson Ave, SA 78228 (210) 432-1265 International Bible Church 2369 Benrus Blvd, SA 78228 (210) 434-5541 www.church.ibctx.org/ Jesus’ Church 5726 Mobud St, San Antonio 78238 (210) 682-5224 JMB Outreach Ministries 9558 Cantura Crest, SA 78250 (210) 607-1537 Kingdom Life Christian Ministries Inc. 10635 IH 35 N, Suite 313, San Antonio 78233 (210) 650-5334 www.kingdomlifecm.org/ Kings Mission Fellowship 610 Moursund Blvd, SA 78221 (210) 922-5366 www.kingsmissionsa.com/

Living Faith Church 18850 Red Land Rd., SA 78259 www.livingfaithsa.org Living Water Faith Church 118 Fredericksburg Rd, SA 78201 (210) 733-1980 Living Word Christian Fellowship 4952 Windsor Hl # 103, Windcrest 78239 (210) 650-0712 Love Gospel Church 8102 Crosscreek, San Antonio 78218 (210) 650-3400 Mission of Mercy Ministry 502 E Southcross, SA 78214 (210) 425-3365 New Creations Christian Fellowship 8700 Fourwinds Dr, Windcrest 78239 (210) 646-7997 New Life Christian Center 6610 W US Highway 90, San Antonio 78227 (210) 679-6050 New Life Church 1503 Standish, Floresville 78114 (830) 216-1008 Nuevo Amanecer 502 E Southcross, San Antonio 78226 (830) 281-1162 Primera Iglesia 437 W Johnson, Pleasanton 78064 (830) 570-4999 Real Christ International Church 1136 W Woodlawn, San Antonio 78201 (210) 913-5435 Redeeming Grace AME Zion Chr 1690 Rigsby Ave, SA 78210 (210) 359-6240 Road To Damascus Church 2105 Pinn Rd, SA 78227 (210) 673-4924 Shalom Outreach Ministries 3107 Guadalupe, SA 78207 (210) 438-1257 Shekina Glory Church 614 Chalmers, SA 78214 (210) 577-8212 Souled Out - BFA 3439 Willowwod Blvd, SA 78219 (210) 862-5221 Souls for the Kingdom Ministries 3802 W Salinas, San Antonio 78207 (210) 534-8186 www.souls4.org/Home_Page.html Templo Amor Y Gracia 332 Wilcox Ave, SA 78211 (210) 923-1929 Templo Espiritu de Verdad 96 Ninth St. , Somerset 78069 (210) 639-5328 Thousand Oaks Christian Church 13007 Jones-Maltsberger, SA 78247 (210) 490-7729 Todo Esta Pagado Mission 8305 S Foster, SA 78222 (210) 413-6602 Tower City Church 11220 Perrin Beitel Rd, Suite 110, San Antonio 78217 www.towercitychurch.com/ True Christian Unity Church 10311 Lee Roy Lane, Adkins 78101 (210) 707-1837 Winds of Grace Church 1512 Bandera Rd, San Antonio 78228 (210) 954-2370 www.windsofgrace.org/ P E N T E C O S TA L

Harvest Time Fellowship Ministry 1815 S Ww White Rd, SA 78212 (210) 304-6000 www.htfm.org Iglesia Emanuel Pentecostal 2908 Mission Road, SA 78214 (210) 789-8340 Lively Stone International Christian Church 210 S Grimes St, Ste 103, San Antonio 78203 (210) 226-1234 Mission De La Fe Pentecostes Hwy 35, Derby 78061 (830) 317-6001 PRESBYTERIAN

Faith Presbyterian Church 1307 Blanco Woods, SA 78248 (210) 492-8038 First Presbyterian Church San Antonio 404 North Alamo Street, SA 78205 (210) 226-0215 www.fpcsanantonio.org/ Holy Trinity Presbyterian 16245 Nacogdoches, SA 78247 (210) 654-3411 Stone Oak Presbyterian Church 20024 Crescent Oaks, SA 78258 (210) 497-7974 S E V E N T H D AY A D V E N T I S T

Highland Lakes SDA Church 6642 West FM 1431, Granite Shoals 78654

512-755-4379

UNITED METHODIST

Asbury UMC 4601 San Pedro, San Antonio 78212 (210) 735-8115 Bulverde United Methodist Church 28300 Hwy. 281 North, SA 78260 www.bulverdeumc.org Coker UMC 231 E. North Loop Road, San Antonio 78216 (210) 494-3455 Colonial Hills UMC 5247 Vance Jackson, SA 78230 (210) 349-9583 Northern Hills UMC 3703 N Loop 1604 E, SA 78247 (210) 654-0881 www.nhumc.org/ University United Methodist Church 5084 De Zavala Rd., SA 78249 (210) 696-1033 www.uumcsatx.org Windcrest UMC 8101 Midcrown Dr, SA 78239 (210) 654-0404

It Takes Three E’s to be Excellent. New Braunfels Christian Academy instills its students with the skills necessary to excel as leaders among their peers and in their community. 830-629-6222 NBChristianAcademy.org

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M AY 2 0 1 6 — B E A CO N

SENIORS

Believing In Belief

BY BOB LOWRY Are you thinking of selling or trading in that old car, truck, van, RV, or boat? Do you have some other property such as an airplane, real estate, construction equipment, or stocks and bonds that you really can do without? Would you like to help middle school and high school kids find Jesus Christ? Then why not donate that property instead? Your car donation is fully tax deductible and will help the local Youth For Christ branch fulfill it’s mission: Youth For Christ reaches young people everywhere, working together with the local church and other like-minded partners to raise up lifelong followers of Jesus who lead by their godliness in lifestyle, devotion to prayer and the Word of God, passion fro

sharing the love of Christ and commitment to social involvement.

After School Art Lessons for Kids Age 6 and Up

any locations in the San Antonio and surrounding area public and private school, home-school groups, birthday parties, girl and boy scout troops, in-school programs

Call Today! 945-4411 for more information www.myartstarz.com

Are you & your spouse called to the mission field to work with orphaned, abandoned & abused children? If so...maybe YOU are who we are looking for! We are looking for an experienced, bilingual couple to serve in our Children's Home in Mexico as PROGRAM DIRECTORS. If you would like to learn more about it, check it out online at:

http://www.whitestone.ws/job_opening_directors.html

www.whitestone.ws

I saw the following quote on some material sent to me by the folks at Olderhood. com, an excellent site for retirees. If there is some sort of existence Beyond what we experience here on earth, Neither believing in it, Nor not believing in it Would change the fact of its existence. I like that. As a believer, my faith convinces me there is something good, very good, after my existence on earth ends. I cannot prove it, I have no way of verifying my beliefs, and I don’t expect God to audibly speak to me to verify what I think is true, or even that he really exists. I am either right or wrong. But, what I think will not change whatever the reality is. That is the definition of faith - a firm belief in something for which there is no definitive proof. Certainly, there are historical records, both written and physical, that appear to Many of the support my faith. Many of the places, places, people, people, and events and events described in the Bible have been described in the confirmed as facBible have been tual. What moves this all into the confirmed as realm of faith is whether the words factual. in the Bible are inspired by a God that is real, the future that he promises believers is coming, and the existence of a real force known as evil is part of the world. Numerous studies indicate a link between spirituality and health. Faster recovery, fewer complications, or lower blood pressure seemed to follow regular prayer or meditation. Marriage stability and longevity have been positively linked to a shared religious or spiritual mindset. Of course, there are other factors that could explain these outcomes. Getting sick and then deciding to cover one’s bet with a period of prayer or mindfulness is probably not what these studies suggest. Rather, the mindset that accepts that there is something greater than oneself in absolute control, and with a greater good as part of a plan, may be an attitude that allows the body to heal and recover more quickly and completely. I don’t know if this is true, but it seems logical. Speaking from a personal standpoint, I know my life has become much fuller, more

Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

comfortable, more relaxed, and more in tune with what I believe my purpose on earth is since my spiritual life became important to me. Those who know me have seen sides of my personality that weren’t evident before. As a recent post on my marriage demonstrates, my most important human relationships have only grown stronger over the years. I don’t even come close to the type of relationship with God that I know He wants. My prayer and study time remain too sporadic. Too often I do not treat others with the respect and love they deserve. My tongue and temper can get the better of me. I am a flawed human being and will remain so until I die. Sometimes I am appalled at what others who follow my belief system say and do in God’s name. Apparently, we are not reading the same Bible. Which one of us is wrong? Is it my responsibility to try to correct them? That is a tough question. People, operating under the mantle of organized religions, have caused tremendous damage, death, and destruction. At the same time, they have given people hope, a moral code, and a path to a life more in tune with what is perceived to be God’s desires. The problem comes when they begin to act as if the religious organization is the purpose and specifically endorsed by a supreme being. I guess the answer is simple: it is not my place to condemn or to force my beliefs on others. It is my responsibility to speak out, to offer an interpretation that I believe is more representative of the intent of God, and then let Him work it out. We are all humans made in the image of God. I think my faith is correct, but as the quote says, I may be wrong. In all humility I must remember one simple fact: I am not a god, just a pale and flawed representative of the one who started it all. Bob Lowry is the author of the definitive retirement guides: Living A Satisfying Retirement and Building A Satisfying Retirement. Bob has been profiled in Money Magazine & CNN Money as well as Ad Age Insight White Papers. He is a featured author in nationally released book, “65 Things To Do When You Retire” and “65 Things To Do When You Retire - Travel” and “70 Things To Do When You Turn 70,” as well as a contributor to PBS’s Next Avenue web site.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

ALL ABOUT EYES BY MONICA ALLISON, OD

Vision Source Stone Oak Welcomes Dianne Miranda We have a lot of exciting things coming soon at Stone Oak Vision Source. We are building a new building and will be relocating in the Fall of 2016. The new location is located on Knights Cross so it is very close. With this upcoming new move, we have added some new team members and we want to profile them in our article. We will profile current team members in articles to follow as well. Our team is the heart and soul of the practice and we want our patients to get to know and love them as we do. Our first team member profile will be our new Optical Manager, Diane Miranda. Diane was born in Miami, FL but has lived in San Antonio for most of her life. She has been in the optometry field for ten years and continues to learn and evolve with the optometric industry. She is fluent in Spanish and English. She joined Stone Oak Vision Source in November of 2015 as our Optical Manager and is excited to be a part of such a great team. She is certified by the American Board of Opticianry as an Optician and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies with a concentration in Marketing! Diane is also currently enrolled in Essilor’s Eye Care Professional University Dispensary Manager Program in Dallas, TX. She loves to talk about frame designers and makes it a personal goal to stay on top of the latest fashions and trends in the industry. She has an eye for style and the technical knowledge behind the lenses to chose the perfect frame and lenses for you! Her personal goal with all customers is to

make the process of selecting Eyewear as fun and smooth as possible. After all, we are selecting your next accessory that you’ll

Diane Miranda., Optical Manager

wear on your face. She dedicated in providing top notch customer service to every customer and making new friendships along the way. Diane’s passion in the business is her ability to interact with people and deliver a one of a kind experience. Diane is married has three beautiful children that keep her plenty busy in her spare time, but if she gets a second you’ll see her browsing the Internet, reading some of her favorite magazines, or shopping! She also enjoys the outdoors and loves to drive down to the beach with her family. If you are experiencing any eye concerns, or just want to stop in and meet our team, we are currently located at 19202 Stone Oak Parkway Ste 106. Please visit our web site www.visionsource-stoneoak.com or call 495-9020 to schedule your appointment today.

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M AY 2 0 1 6 — B E A CO N

SOCIAL ISSUES Dress Up Event Pampers Girls Served by CASA BEACON STAFF, COURTESY OF CASA

On April 2, CASA (Child Advocates of San Antonio) hosted its annual Abby’s Closet event, which provided girls served by CASA an opportunity to select garments including dresses for special occasions. This year’s theme was “Abby in Paris,” named in commemoration of Abby, a special-needs CASA child who loved to play dress up. Approximately 35 girls came with their advocates to enjoy the event, where they received new jewelry from HEB’s Mia’s Mirror, chose from 900 donated dresses, had their makeup and hair done by volunteers and enjoyed refreshments and music, according to CASA volunteer Kema Biediger. “It was so rewarding to see the girls being happy, rather than being nervous or scared,” she added. “This was event where the girls could go and just relax and be kids.” Biediger is a second-year CASA volunteer. The organization recruits, trains, and supervises court-appointed volunteer advocates who provide constancy for abused and neglected children and youth while

HEALTH & WELLNESS

advocating for services and placement in safe and permanent homes, according to CASA. There were more than 5,000 children in the foster care system in Bexar County last year. CASA’s goal for fiscal year 2016 is to serve 2,050 children by mobilizing a recordVolunteers with a donated breaking 585 com- CASA dress. Photo Courtesy of CASA munity volunteers, according to the website. “The continued presence of one advocate provides constancy in a child’s life that would otherwise not be present,” according to CASA. Make a difference in a child’s life; sign up to learn more about advocating for abused/ neglected children. The next training class begins May 11, from 10-11 a.m. See more at: http://www.casa-satx.org/become-an-advocate/ information-sessions/#sthash.bzMYhNXW.dpuf.

…have

Wear These For Better Sleep you tried BY JARED WHITE

Looking for ways to improve your quality of sleep? Maybe you’ve tried taking melatonin or perhaps cutting out caffeine, but have you tried wearing amber-colored glasses for a few hours before bed? It sounds a little gimmicky, I’ll admit, but the logic and research behind wearing amber-colored glasses to improve sleep quality is convincing. Here’s the logic: Exposure to light affects our circadian rhythm, our sleep cycle. But one band of light in particular, blue light, is what really keeps us awake. Blue light is found in natural sunlight, but it’s also emitted by television, cell-phone, and computer screens. Common experience says this is true. After all, we’ve all experienced the sun’s rays waking us up by shining between the cracks of the curtains or blinds. Most of us have also experienced the restlessness caused by watching television or checking Facebook before bed without realizing that blue light was the culprit. The good news is that a recent study indicates that wearing amber-colored glasses might be an easy way to block blue light several hours before bed, resulting in improved sleep quality. The study included two groups of participants. The control

wearing ambercolored glasses?

bialasiewicz / 123RF Stock Photo

groups didn’t wear amber-colored glasses before bed, while the test group wore amber-colored glasses three hours prior to sleep for two weeks. The study found that the test group had a significant improvement in sleep quality and mood! Amber-color lenses absorb blue rays of light, so when the test group wore these glasses they blocked their eyes from receiving any circadian rhythm disrupting rays. You can try improving your sleep quality using the same method. Just buy a cheap pair of amber-colored sunglasses on Amazon and put them on three hours before bed, then see what happens! Reference: Amber lenses to block blue light and improve sleep: a randomized trial - US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health Reprinted with permission. Jared White is the founder of Creation Based Health, which exists to inspire a community towards optimum health and the truths that make life exciting to live.

M AY 2016 — B E A CO N

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HURTS, HABITS & HANGUPS

When It’s Time To Give Up BY TIM HOLLAND

Next month, I’ll turn 37. While this birthday won’t confer any special privileges like voting rights, adult beverages, or Presidential eligibility – each passing year does bring about a deeper regard for the brevity of life. It’s natural, for me anyway, to take an annual personal inventory. Where am I in comparison to this time last year? And so on. As I get older, I’m trying to be more inten-

tional. I want past experience to inform future decisions – chief among them is deciding what to keep and what to throw out. I’m interested in being me, not a caricature that conforms to someone else’s preferences. Just the me I’m supposed to be. Because life’s too short to perpetuate charades. I’m working on being at peace with the decisions others make which I have no control over. I assure you, this does not come easily.

EDUCATION

Pay Attention! BY: LYN BAKER

Mr. Stephens is one of the most effective educational leaders I know. As I have watched him, I have noticed several things about his style that make him very successful at what he does. He never passes anyone on the campus without acknowledging them. He has a friendly word for the janitor, the gardener, the pre-K teacher, and the largest donor to his school. Everyone receives the same courtesy and respect. He always has his “antenna” out when greeting people, noticing their body language, expression, and tone of voice. He seems to know when people need more than a perfunctory “good morning.” Watching him in delicate interactions with parent, faculty, staff, and students, I noticed that he has an intuitive grasp of when to be forceful and when the situation calls for gentleness and tact. Mr. Stephens also knows when to speak and when to be silent in his conferences with others. Sometimes people need to “blow off steam.” Sometimes they need to be interrupted. He knows when to engage and when to detach in conversation. This particular skill allows space for the real issues in the discussion to emerge. You can get to the bottom of what is really going on with someone. Jesus had this special touch. I recall the way the Lord responded to Bartimaeus, the blind man on the side of the road (Luke 18:35-43). The disciples ignored Bartimaeus. But Jesus asked the man what he needed, and then gave it to him! Bartimaeus received his sight. Zacchaeus was rich, but socially he was an outsider (Luke 19:1-9). Jesus “saw” him. Jesus “got” Zacchaeus without his having to say a word. He saw the wealth, the isola-

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I’m learning to place a greater value on forgiveness – which is a two-way street. Inasmuch as forgiving others is a healthy, necessary part of growth, forgiving ourselves is equally important. Because too often, we can be our greatest critics – heaping on mounds of unrealistic expectations and misguided disappointments. There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind. — C.S. Lewis

Image Credit: Isirtosky / CC0 Public Domain

tion, and the social embarrassment of profiting from one’s neighbor. By his presence, Jesus provided a bridge for Zacchaeus to rejoin his community. Moving even lower on the social ladder, Jesus treated the woman of Samaria with great respect and dignity (John 4:4-39). He talked to her. He treated her like an intelligent person even though she was a Samaritan, hated by the Jews as one of “mixed blood, and even worse, a woman with no standing in the ancient world.” When Mary wiped Jesus’ feet with her hair, Simon judged her to be unworthy (Luke 7:36-50). But Jesus was forceful with Simon and gentle with Mary, whose heart was broken. In all of these encounters, Jesus is asking directly or indirectly, “What do you want me to do for you?” Sometimes the answers are spoken aloud, and sometimes they remain unspoken in the hearts of his hearers. Whether he speaks to us directly or not, Jesus is our role model, and he listens to us. He wants to meet our needs, and he does. He never prejudges, ignores, or belittles anyone. He always pays close attention, demonstrates true care, and reunites the people he touches with their community. These are leadership skills we need to emulate. Lyn Baker has worked with students and parents for twenty plus years. Her work in education and administration in the US and abroad has produced an intense desire to see children thrive. Learning the habit of generosity is the foundation for a productive life. Lyn has produced a series of workshops on best practices in parenting called Positive Impact Parenting. Her family includes two sons, Jonathan and Stephen. Reprinted with permission of The High Calling from Pay Attention by Lyn Baker.

It seems to me that some of life’s greatest personal baggage exists because of an inability to let go. To move on. Not just in a physical sense, but in the deliberate choices we make (or don’t make) to relinquish the past. Sometimes we have to choose new pathways with intentional, but (somewhat paradoxically) uncertain futures – and live with the reality that unfolds. I think this is what’s referred to as ‘faith.’ Our future selves are not solely defined by the past. Resumes are not who we are, but rather who we were. Who we are is revealed through the process of who we are becoming and how we choose to become that new person. Resumes full of significant accomplishments are admirable, but if those accomplishments continue defining us today, we’re living in the past. On the other hand, resumes bearing greater resemblance to rap sheets are never the final chapter. What you’re doing today,

what will be done tomorrow, these are the stories being written now. The tales waiting to be told. It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known. — Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities We’re told to never give up! To never give in! But there are times in life when giving up is the only remedy. The only way forward. The only way to leave behind the past’s toxic grasp. Have you allowed a dark cloud of guilt to take up residence in your life? Maybe regret has won more victories than you’d like to admit. Whatever your situation, there is cause for hope. Because there is redemptive power in letting go. In this season, careful reflection represents an essential part of personal growth. We can’t achieve growth through a stubborn unwillingness to loosen our grip. It’s only through honest self-appraisal that we truly break free. Best-selling author, Bob Goff, says you can quit anything on a Thursday. Why Thursday? I have no idea. But, since today happens to be Thursday, maybe it’s time to give something up. I am. Tim Holland is a Florida-based educator, writer, and coach. Tim blogs at www.timhollandonline.com and can be found on Twitter at @ Tim_G_Holland. Reprinted with permission

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M AY 2 0 1 6 — B E A CO N

FAITH

To Be Heard BY ADAM LORENZ

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I recently found myself alone on a bus. The purr of the engine and the rumble of the tires on the road somehow made it serene, a momentary sabbatical during a busy day. As suddenly as this tranquil moment began, it ended with an incoming passenger throwing their bag into the bus and yelling at the driver as they boarded. They were livid, and I might add they had a unique talent for articulata variety of certain We long to ing four letter words all be heard. towards the public transsystem. And as We long to portation they made their way to a seat in the back they finish know this tirade with: ‘I know someone it’s not your fault.’ As if this made it ok to else under- lay into the innocent driver. We long to be heard. stands our long to know someone situation We else understands our situation in life – unfortuin life nately our outbursts can be directed at the innocent, those who just happen to be at the wrong place – at the wrong time. In our wake, no matter the truth that we might be articulating. A fool is often made and that fool is us. Herein lay the tension. The frustration we feel, the injustice we’ve experience, and the heartbreak that has left it’s mark on us needs to be acknowledged – for our sanity and for others to understand the power of their actions. We know that real change can

Image Credit: makamuki0 / CC0 Public Domain

only occur when open and honest communication occurs, communication that invites all parties into the process of restoration and reconciliation. Why, O Lord, do you stand far off ? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? —Psalm 10:1 There are parts of Psalms where we read of lament, of frustration, of loss, and the dismay of individuals. Individuals who cast their doubts on who God is and what God is doing. Throughout the centuries these words somehow became Sacred. Their words became ours, our loss echoed theirs, we became one in our shared experience. And like the individual I encountered on the bus, they often end in a, ‘I know it’s not your fault’. Sometimes, in order to be heard, we must first hear. To be seen, first see. Who are the people you pass by everyday? Who are the people whose voice you often don’t listen to? Whose story hasn’t been heard? How can we lend our voice to the voiceless? In doing so, they are heard, you are heard, I am heard and we all are known. And God responds with the whispered reminder that ‘I am here’. Reprinted with permission. Adam Lorenz is currently serving as the Youth Minister at Grace Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids, MI. and writes at www.adamlorenz.net. Follow his daily thoughts on Twitter at @adamlorenz.

SOCIAL ISSUES

Operation Code Red

BEACON STAFF, COURTESY OF VICTORY OUTREACH SAN ANTONIO

Victory Outreach San Antonio is hosting a free Spa Day for women that are caught up in the human trafficking and the sex industry (a.k.a. Twilight Treasures) in San Antonio. “Operation Code Red” will be held on Friday, June 3, 2016, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 3825 S. Presa Street (Corner of Eads of S. Presa St.). Women will receive massages, hair-styling, facials, make up, pedicures, washing of the feet and manicures. They will also be given food, hygienics, and clothes. Ministry staff and volunteers will use this opportunity to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ with the twilight treasures in attendance. Victory Outreach will also have their free SACS15_CS_018_Beacon_4o05x5o5_120415_PR.indd

12/7/15

2:43 PM

Special Services Women’s Rehabilitation Homes available for those that are interested in changing their lives. If you currently know any women who are looking for a way out of the sex industry, please refer them to this free Spa Day. Victory Outreach Twilight Treasures will provide free transportation to the event. The ministry is also looking for sponsors, resources, and tangible or financial donations to make “Operation Code Red” a success. For more information or to request transportation, please contact Dana Robinson at (210) 577-9711 or Satwilighttreasures@gmail.com.

M AY 2016 — B E A CO N

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Radio Personality Overcomes Tragedy to Bring Hope to Others BY AMY MORGAN

San Antonio’s radio personality Joy Ware Miller heard the words no parent wants to hear: “Mr. and Mrs. Miller, there is nothing Joy Ware Miller more we can do for him,” in reference to her 13-year-old son, Christopher. He had collapsed playing basketball at the gym. She held up his size 13 shoes as she spoke of her struggle to deal with the emotional impact of losing a child. Miller shared her message of hope at the April 14 Roaring Lambs meeting. The group hosts monthly luncheons featuring speakers who tell their stories of inspiration and overcoming difficulty at noon every second Thursday at the Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel. Luncheons are open to the public. Her message was uplifting and moving, offering hope through God’s presence in the face of devastating loss. Her experience inspired her to found a group to help other parents reeling from tragedy. Parents on Call provides support “on call” from those who’ve experienced it for families who’ve lost a child. She also started Helping Hurting Hearts Heal, a website listing resources for those in need. “It (the loss of her son) has affected our family for the rest of our lives,” she said, adding their tragedy has given them empathy for others. “It is one thing when you look at the moccasins; it’s another thing when you put them on,” she added. The voice of “Joy in the Morning” for a decade, formerly broadcast on KSLR, Miller can now be found hosting her radio program at 7 a.m. on Positive Note Network. She is the author of There’s a Party in the Pit, and You’re Invited, and the website, iJoy Inspirations, www.ijoyinspirations. com. “Connecting with other women and encouraging them to never quit…is her mission,” according to her website. “The joy you see is not just my name: It is real joy… And in His presence is fullness of joy,” Miller ended. Roaring Lambs, headquartered in Dallas, has been active in San Antonio for the past two years and sponsors communicator training. www.roaringlambs.org. For information about local events, contact Deb Ford at 210-710-8988.

WHERE HOPE COMES FROM

What Is Grace? BY: BARRY COOPER

Christians love to throw around the word “grace.” What does that mean? The film Saving Private Ryan, set during World War II, tells the story of how one soldier—Private James Ryan—is rescued from behind enemy lines in Normandy.1 The mission is extremely perilous; immediately it begins claiming the lives of the men on the rescue team, one after another. In the final battle scene, set on a heavily-shelled bridge, the captain of the rescue team whispers his last words to a dumbstruck Private Ryan: “James… earn this… earn it.” At the end of the movie, we see an elderly James Ryan return to Normandy with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He kneels beside the grave of the captain who rescued him and, as tears fill his eyes, he says, “My family is with me today…. Every day I think about what you said to me that day on the bridge. I tried to live my life the best I could. I hope that was enough. I hope that, at least in your eyes, I’ve earned what all of you have done for me.” Then, turning to his wife, he pleads with her, “Tell me I have led a good life…. Tell me I’m a good man.”

Never Good Enough James Ryan has lived his entire life with the last words of his rescuer ringing in his ears. Earn this. In a way, those words have ruined him. How could his life ever be worth the deaths of those young men? Nothing would ever be truly good enough. But he’s driven to keep trying. Perhaps you feel something of that in your own life. Are you driven to try to earn approval from your parents, your peers, your spouse, your friends, your God? Do you try to get that sense of being “good enough” from the job you do, the relationship you have, the home you live in, the family you’re raising, the money you earn, the charity you give to, the ethical choices you make, the church you go to? Do you sometimes feel that it’s just never “enough”?

We Can’t Earn It It’s not only religious people who are driven to try to be “good enough.” The motivation for this endeavor is rooted in something real. The Bible says each of us has a very serious problem, which separates us from our Maker. It’s called “sin”. Sin isn’t so much the bad things we do—although those are symptoms of the deeper problem we have. Sin occurs when we exchange the real God for false gods.2 Instead of living for the real God—the one who created us and gives us every good thing we enjoy—we live for ourselves, or for our career, or for our spouse, or for material things. Do you The result of doing this is catastrophic. The sometimes “gods” we choose to serve feel that it’s are merciless slave-drivjust never ers. They are gaping mouths that never seem “enough”? to be satisfied—and they can never satisfy us in a lasting way. The Bible refers to them as “broken cisterns that cannot hold water.”3 When we treat the God who made us in this way, we deserve every bit of his condemnation and judgment. Jesus is uncomfortably clear that because we sin against God in this way, we deserve hell.4 Putting Things Right The Christian understanding of God reveals that he takes no pleasure in our endless attempts to make ourselves acceptable to him. The book of Acts says, “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.”5 In other words, nothing we can do for God can make us acceptable to him, because a) he doesn’t need anything we have to offer, and b) anything we offer him is something that he made in the first place. So… we deserve God’s condemnation and cannot earn God’s acceptance. What hope is there? Grace The Bible claims that Jesus is our only hope. He, too, died as part of a rescue mission—God’s rescue mission for humanity. But the words Jesus cried out just before he died weren’t “Earn it.” He said plainly, “It is finished.”6 That simple statement is an expression of the fact that Jesus “earned” forgiveness and freedom for us. In Christian under-

standing, Jesus lived a uniquely sinless life in which he loved God perfectly. And then, having lived that perfect life, he died the perfect death. On the cross, he bore the punishment that you and I deserve for our sins. He took on our sins; died in our place; and rose again, conquering death and sin and opening the way for all to have a personal relationship with God. And we—if we put our trust in him—are credited with and redeemed by his perfect obedience. This is what Christians mean when they say things like “Jesus paid it all.” Second Corinthians 5:21 puts it like this: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” This is grace—a word you may hear a lot of Christians throw around. It is by grace that God freely, lavishly sets his love on an undeserving people. It’s all made possible because of Jesus’ life and death. One of the clearest expressions of this stunning truth comes in the book of Ephesians. The Apostle Paul, one of the New Testament writers, says this to those who believe in Jesus: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”7 In other words, we can’t earn salvation by the things we do. If we could, we would be proud and arrogant. Instead, we are saved through faith and trust in what Jesus has done for us. And even that faith is a gift from God.

How Should We Respond? When someone understands God’s grace and embraces it, it transforms them wonderfully and irrevocably. James Ryan felt he had to “earn it,” and so his life became weighed down by joylessness and anxiety about whether or not he had done enough. But those who put their trust in Jesus know that he has already earned it for them. As a result, they are freed from the enslavement of trying to earn it. They are freed to love and serve God—and others— as they revel in the joy of a restored relationship with him. Barry Cooper studied English Language and Literature at St Catherine’s College, Oxford. He trained at the Webber Douglas Academy in London and began a six year acting career that included work at Shakespeare’s Globe and the National Theater. More recently, he completed his Masters degree in theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago. He’s authored or co-authored numerous books and resources. Barry is the Director of Product Development at Christianity Explored Ministries. Reprinted by permission. Read the original article at ExploreGod.com

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SINGLES

REAL ESTATE

5 Joys of Being Single

Home Improvements That Don’t Break The Bank

BY PHILELA SINGAMA

From the headlines that scream at you from the shopping aisle – “36 ways to get that girl”, “Meet a new guy by summer!” – to all the cheesy pop songs (Ed Sheeran anyone?), society seems to push us towards coupledom. But Philela Singama says nah, she ain’t nobody’s bae and she’s lovin’ it, here’s why. 1. Facebook freedom: It’s a fact that when you’re in a relationship you no longer own your Facebook account because your partner will question everything you do. Sometimes they’ll question you about why you wrote a certain status and it gets really annoying when your partner starts to think every status you write has something to do with your relationship. The #1 joy of being single is that you can write whatever on Facebook, inbox and poke whoever you feel like poking without being interrogated. You can check in wherever and no one will inbox you asking, “Where you at?” or write some random comment like, “That’s my Bae.” Oh gosh! Being single means the world. 2. You can hangout with anyone you like: You will always have that friend of the opposite sex, and no matter how many times you’ve introduced him/her to your partner, your partner will never understand why you guys spend so much time together. In fact, you will always argue about this and your partner will accuse you of dating your friend. When you’re single you can hang around with pimps, hipsters, and even your crush, and you won’t feel guilty because you have no one to explain to. 3. Not having to dress to impress: This is one of my favourites. I can rock pj’s all day long or have a bad hair day everyday. When you’re in a relationship you somehow feel the need to always look your best. And the only reason you do this is because you want your partner to stay interested in you. Let’s face it, no one wants to date a slob, even slobs don’t want to date slobs. The next time you’re single don’t forget to pull out those ugly pants and that hoody.

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4. You can flirt with whoever: This is a definite no-no when you’re in a relationship. If you’re in relationship I strongly suggest you don’t flirt unless you want to break up and enjoy the joys of being single. Flirting is so enjoyable, it’s one of the joys that most single people live for. Flirting is what single people do almost everyday without feeling guilty. 5. Zero worries: How many times have you stressed over whether you’re dating the right girl or guy? Trust me, all these thoughts come with a lot of anxiety and they can make you unhappy. From the day I became single I had zero worries. I got to spend time thinking about my favourite TV shows and worrying about my favourite TV characters. Now that I’m single I know I’m loved by my family and their love feels enough to keep me warm for centuries. 6. You never have to meet weird family members: This is one of the hardest steps you’ll ever encounter in a relationship, the day when you meet your partner’s family members. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an informal introduction or not, it’s always scary. In some cases, you will have trouble getting along with the family because some of them are just too weird. And sometimes the family may not like you because they may prefer the girl or guy before you. Philela Singama is an writer at LiveMag. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.5

One thing Energized Real Estate stresses to our home-selling clients is that their home needs to be market ready when it is listed. To do this we stress they don’t have to put thousands of dollars into home improvements. A few little changes made to a home’s appearance can make all the difference in the world to a homebuyer. For example: #1 Paint your red wall. Many potential homebuyers have a hard time seeing past bold wall colors. Painting rooms with neutral wall color sets the homebuyers at ease. #2 Caulk your bathtub. For under $30 you can make your bathroom look clean and well maintained by simply replacing the old caulking. #3 Hire professional carpet cleaners. Hiring professional carpet cleaners can cost $200$500, but the end result is well worth it. Not only will cleaning your carpets renew their appearance, it helps to make your home look fresh and well taken care of, as well. #4 Let there be light! Make sure all of the light bulbs in each fixture are working correctly and are the same wattage. This helps to give balance to the room. This is also cru-

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cial for the online photos. #5 Work on decluttering rooms. Straightening the closets, removing excessive items from kitchen countertops and minimizing items in your bookcases, helps to make a home look well maintained. Our point is that with just a little time and a few dollars you can make your home market ready without “breaking the bank.” For other ideas on how to get your home market ready go to EnergizedSeller.com. Printed with permission. Energized Real Estate is a San Antonio real estate brokerage and advisory firm that matches you with proven successful real estate agents in San Antonio and advises you on improving your likelihood of success during your home selling and buying experience. You can visit them at http://www.energizedrealestate.com.

4 Ways to Keep Comfortable this Summer

Joe Incardona Rosenberg Air

temperatures create built-in “ Springtime benefits for enjoying indoor comfort while conserving energy. Try these tips to make the most of lower energy costs: ”

Ad Ventilation. During moderate temperatures, natural ventilation is your best strategy for saving on energy, so fling open windows and use fans to move the air around.

2 3

Prepare Your Equipment. Service your AC system before summer. Proper maintenance will increase its life and preserve its efficiency. Watch Your Settings. DOE says you can save up to 1% for each degree you set the temperature back for 8 hours or longer. So, if you run your AC at 78° instead of 72°, you can save from 6-18% on your bill. Programmable thermostats will monitor settings for you.

your ductwork and attic insulation levels inspected especially if 4 Have you live in an older home. Many heating and cooling systems waste significant amounts of energy (and your money) leaking air into the attic space. What is the sense in paying for electricity if you are cooling your attic?

For expert service, call Rosenberg Indoor Comfort:

(210) 798-8000 www.Rosenberghvac.com

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M AY 2016 — B E A CO N

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YOUNG ADULTS

BUSINESS

Confidence Is Key

Good to Great: One of the Great Business Books BY ELLIOT RITZEMA

BY: LAUREN ROBERTSON

As a young girl, my mother told me nobody possessed the power to make me happy or unhappy. At various times, I struggled to grasp the meaning of her tender, motherly advice. Undoubtedly, we are influenced by our environment. The way we act and perceive ourselves seems so ingrained in our social surroundings. It is so easy in today’s culture to get lost amongst ourselves and worldly pressures. According to The Self Esteem Book, by Dr. Joe Rubino, 80% of people worldwide struggle with low self-esteem. A survey on Self-Esteem-School.com reported: “...adolescents who attended church or other religious institutions are It is so easy more likely to have a higher self esteem than in today’s their peers who have no culture to get religious affiliation. It lost amongst suggests that religious institutions play a part ourselves in teaching people how to have a positive self and worldly esteem and have a pressures. healthy view of themselves.” In other words, community builds confidence. While happiness may come and go with temporal circumstances, we can find fulfillment through fellowship with other human beings who share similar emotions, fears, and struggles as we do. Community gives us a sense of belonging and assurance that we are pursuing the right avenues in our lives. Through my personal experiences and failures, I have to come to find my confidence in Christ. Unlike the world and our human nature, God is absolute. I can recall helpless moments in middle and high school where I would internalize my pain, insecurities, and fears rather than opening up to opportunities for friendship and fellowship. It is critical to allow yourself to be openminded, and especially open-hearted. If not, you may never know what incredible opportunities you bypassed. Never allow yourself to wallow in self-pity and self-doubt. Opening my heart taught me to have confidence, which soon became a consistent lifestyle that keeps me upbeat. The way we carry ourselves directly translates into how oth-

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ers treat us. Those with self-assurance and self-respect exude a confident spirit others revere and admire. With college as my next milestone, there are countless uncertainties and daunting decisions which cause me to doubt myself. When I get caught up thinking about where I will be in five years, I am overwhelmed with uncertainty in who I am supposed to be and what I ought to be pursuing. My worst moments have been when I leave myself to answer those fears and uncertainties because, the truth is, I am not supposed to know where I will be in five years, and neither should you. We are not in control of our lives and never will be. The sooner we embrace this concept, the easier life’s obstacles will be. Personally, my confidence in Christ has secured in me joy that no discouragement, no hurdle, no setback, no tormenter can rob. Whenever you are doubting yourself, I encourage you to hand over your struggles to an absolute, omnipresent Being who is more reliable than our fickle human selves. At least that is how I find serenity when I am enveloped in my own self-doubt and preoccupations of life. I find overwhelming peace in Proverbs 3:26 (NASB) which proclaims, “For the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.” Overall, confidence is our key to a content, healthy lifestyle. Confidence is an internal assurance; a peace of mind that as we live our life we have a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Never allow confidence to denature into pride. Also, be cautious in what or whom you place your confidence in. If that person, place, or entity fails you, where else will you turn? Through my personal experience and moments of extreme self-doubt, I find unparalleled tranquility in confessing my confidence in Christ. Lauren Robertson is currently a senior at San Antonio Christian Schools. She serves as Editor-in-Chief of her school’s magazine, the “Revelation.”. She will be attending Baylor University this fall where she will continue her passion for medicine, business, and writing.

I don’t read a lot of business books, but at least I don’t sneer at them like I used to (progress!). Many of them are not great as literature, but I’ve come to believe that I can learn from almost any book, even if it’s just what not to do. Over time I’ve come to realize that, like all areas of literature, there are a few business “classics.” Jim Collins’ book Good to Great is one of them. This year, I decided it was time to see what the fuss was about. The book, which was originally published in 2001, grew out of a previous book, Built to Last. In response to that book, someone asked Collins what he could do if he was not part of a company that was great from the beginning. Could it become great? In response, Collins and his research team studied a group of companies that had initially been average but had then transitioned into sustained greatness. These companies had the following characteristics: • Level 5 Leaders (who paradoxically possessed personal humility combined with extraordinary professional will) • They focused on getting the right people on the bus (and in the right places) before figuring out where to drive it • They embraced the Stockdale Paradox: they were completely honest about the brutal facts of their present situation while remaining confident that they would prevail in the end, regardless of the difficulty • They discovered their Hedgehog Concept, the “one big thing” at the core of their business, and stuck to it single-mindedly (this was found at the intersection of what they were deeply passionate about, what they could be the best in the world at, and what drove their economic engine) • They had a culture of disciplined people who engaged in disciplined thought and took disciplined action (in contrast to bureaucratic levels of external discipline) • They used technology, but avoided short-

lived fads; they only used technology to help them in their Hedgehog Concept • Their buildup and breakthrough came incrementally by pushing on their core business like a gigantic flywheel • As you can see, Collins has a gift for presenting the results of his research in a memorable way (note how most of the key characteristics above conjure up mental images). It could be easy to dismiss Collins’ work based on the subsequent poor performance of several of the companies he profiles (Circuit City and Fannie Mae being the most obvious examples). And if you read the book’s lowerrated Amazon reviews, you’ll find that many have. But Collins is clear in the book that these great companies could cease being great at any time if they became arrogant and stopped practicing the things that made them great, thinking that their success was inevitable. That may seem like cold comfort, but I actually don’t mind. The things that Collins calls attention to are both simple to describe and exceedingly difficult to sustain. It makes sense that success would lead to complacency without an extraordinary amount of humility and discipline. As a side note, I read part of this book in the hardcover edition and listened to part of it as an audiobook. I’d highly recommend the audiobook; it’s read by the author a few years after the book came out, and he occasionally gives updates on some of the things in the book and responds to feedback he has received. Elliot Ritzema is the Scholar-in-Residence for Logos Bible Software. He has a BA in Journalism (magna cum laude) from the University of Richmond, and served as a copy editing intern at the Los Angeles Times. He was also editor of—and frequent contributor to—the Et Cetera, Regent’s weekly student newsletter. This work by Elliot Ritzema is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

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FINANCIAL STRAIGHT TALK BY DAVE RAMSEY

FINANCES

Loan converts to scholarship

Dear Dave, I’m a senior in high school here in Arkansas, and I think I want to study business in college. I’ve gotten an unusual offer from a small, out-of-state school. It revolves around a $3,000 student loan program, where the loan converts to a scholarship if I maintain a grade point average of 3.3 or higher. Tuition at this college costs about $34,000 a year, so I was wondering what you think about the idea. — Garrett Dear Garrett, I’m glad you’re thinking about the future. But this is not my favorite idea, because you could end up with a loan. In business, one of the things we look at is return on investment. If I can go to one place where tuition’s $34,000 a year, but I could go to another place that’s in-state for about $7,000, the question becomes this: Am I going to get a five times better education — or is my income going to be five times greater — by going to the expensive school? I think most of us who have been walking around a while would say no. Your income will not be based on where you went to school, and it won’t necessarily even be based on your grade point average. It will be based on your ability to take what you learned into the marketplace, kill something and drag it home. This has as much, if not more, to do with your initiative, your perseverance, character qualities and integrity as where you went to school. One of the great jokes in America today is that where you go to school matters. Some places may have better programs in certain areas than others, but is this particular college — which I’m guessing isn’t a prestige school, since you didn’t mention the name — five times better than a solid in-state school like Arkansas State or the University of Arkansas? No, it’s not. I don’t think you’re going to get a return on

your investment overall in this picture, Garrett. Add to that this little student loan nuance, and the fact that they’re not giving you enough “free money” to make this a good deal, I would have to say don’t do it. —Dave

Madness It Is! by JIM FAULK, Area Director-FCA

drama, crafts and other activities, supervised by a cadre of volunteer adults. Check out the events page on our website for a location and time that suits your family’s schedule. Churches: The Beacon wants to help you get the word out about your VBS, camp or summer activity schedules. Please visit our website to list the details on our events page. www.saBeacon.com/upcoming-events

va’s Jenkins got the ball at the top of the key and sank the game winner as the buzzer blared. Wow, and wow again! Now, that IS madness – just extended an extra week into April. It’s madness that drives it all, just like the thoughts of the dark deceptive one of the world that Passover Friday. He had planned and practiced the perfect evil victory dance when he would orchestrate the death of the Son of God. With 4.7 seconds left on the cross, with Christ uttering those words of finality, “It is finished!” Satan thought for the first time he had climbed back into the game – that he had gained equal footing with the Great I AM. THEN JESUS, The Son of God, the One despised and rejected of men, the One full of sorrows who had bowed His head in seeming defeat, did what no one could ever have imagined. With no time left, He made the game-winning shot to rock the universe. What looked to all watching, to all those forces celebrating His death, to have been a game already over became real “March Madness.” Death, where is your victory, where is your sting? Not in an empty tomb! Earthly championships come and go, but the Championship Game that first Resurrection Morning is the one that puts an end to the madness – forever. My prayer for each of my Beacon readers is that your name is on the championship team’s roster. Check out our Facebook, Twitter, Alamo FCA’s Website, and Instagram accounts.

HAPPENINGS

Summer Activities for Kids Are you looking for summer activities where your child can make friends in a fun, safe environment? Or does your teen or preteen need a place to volunteer? Many churches offer VBS throughout the summer, where kids of all ages spend time in games, songs,

SPORTS

If you’re one of those fans who worships that brown leather ball bounced endlessly up and down a hardwood floor, this year’s Four games might well have topped When to buy a better car? Final the highlight shows – for both ladies’ and men’s divisions. Dear Dave, The Final Four marks the culmination of My wife and I are following your plan, a long season of practice, non-conference and we’re in the middle of the Baby Steps. Do we have to wait until Baby Step 7 to buy games, tournaments, and conference play, leading to a conference championship. a new car? —Alan After that, a select sixty-four winners are invited to begin their quest for the “big Dear Alan, No, you don’t have to drive a beater until dance.” By simple elimination (that is, win you pay off your house. My advice is to drive or go home) the teams are whittled down to the minimum car you can until you get past 32, then to the “Sweet Sixteen” – and finally the first three steps. Remember, Baby Step 1 we get a Final Four, and two winners emerge (North Carolina and Villanova for is a beginner emergency fund of $1,000. the men this year) to play for the NCAA Baby Step 2 is paying off all debt except for your house, then Baby Step 3 is fully funding Championship on Monday (Tuesday for the ladies). your emergency fund with three to six What was so spectacular this year was months of expenses. that Tuesday, April 5, the UConn Huskies Once you’ve done all that, then you can women won their FOURTH (count ‘em – 4!) move up to a nice car. I didn’t say move up consecutive National Championship – to a new car. I want you to save up cash a WOW! Equally impressive; the men’s game get a really nice, barely used car. I never ended with a “You’ll never believe THIS!” advise buying a brand new car unless you finish. For television executives, the audihave a net worth of at least $1 million. At that point, you’ve got enough assets in place ence, and high dollar advertisers, this was to where you won’t even feel the massive hit the game for which everyone begged – nip and tuck, back and forth for forty minutes. in depreciation that comes with buying a Until the final buzzer, the game was up for new vehicle. grabs, as North Carolina’s Page hit a gameBut until then, drive good used cars. That’s what the typical millionaire did, and I tying, off-balanced, quirky-looking 3-pointer with 4.7 seconds on the clock. want you to model your financial behavior Then, as it looked as if overtime was immiafter people who are in the position you want to be in some day! nent (to the delight of advertisers), Villano —Dave Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business, and CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven best-selling books. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 11 million listeners each week on more than 550 radio stations and digital outlets. Dave’s latest project, EveryDollar, provides a free online budget tool. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

M AY 2 0 1 6 — B E A CO N

Courtesy Photos

Johnson High School Golf Teams Snag District Titles BEACON STAFF, COURTESY JOHNSON HIGH SCHOOL

Congratulations to the Johnson High School Girls’ and Boys’ Golf Teams, as they both won District 26-6A Championships in April. The boys won the tournament by 16 shots over Reagan. The male Jags were awarded five of the 10, 1st Team All-District honors and four of the 10, 2nd Team All-District Honors, according to Johnson’s head golf coach Mike Martin. The Boys’ Team also earned the Regional Championship trophy. The Jags won a three way tie playoff to triumph over Brandeis and New Braunfels. The Girls’ golf team’s District Championship effort was led by Haleigh Jordan, Kiersten Bryant and Loryn Munoz.

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