Valley Christian Magazine January 2015

January 2015

Private School Spotlight Edition!

Resolution 2015

p8

But Victory Seems So Far Away

5

p 10

FEBRUARY 22

Steps to Being

Financially Fit in the New Yearp 30

NE WSBOYS OCTOBER 26

THE CORNERSTONE OF

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION VGAA is the premier Christian Boarding & Day School Academy in South Texas. VGAA has been providing rigorous college preparation in a Christian context since 1937. VGAA is an achievement-oriented community that encourages students to strive toward academic excellence with nearly 100% of our stu dents graduating and attending college. Your student would be a welcome addition to our VGAA family. Call us at (956) 968-0573 to schedule your visit and discover the VGAA Advantage.

77

CELEBRATING

YEARS OF ACADEMIC

EXCELLENCE

EXCELLENT RESULTS EXCELLENT ACHIEVEMENTS EXEMPLARY BEHAVIOR EXTRAORDINARY SCHOOL

Stephen Gifford, Board Chairman, Dr. Andrew Leoni, Senior Academic Affairs Advisor, Mr. Trinidad Torres, Principle. Academy Senior Minister Raja Masilanovy, Mrs. Suzanna de la Garza, School Registrar.

Accepting Enrollment Fall/Winter 2014-15 (classesNOW start August 18) REGISTER 2 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

4 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

956.627.1603

Call us, we can help you enroll within 20 minutes!

Important Dates

Medicare Open Enrollment

AFFORDABLE HEALTH

OCT- 15 TO DEC 7

OBAMACARE open enrollment NOV 15 TO FEB 15

INSURANCE NO HEALTH QUESTIONS ASKED SUBSIDIZED HEALTH INSURANCE NOW AVAILABLE FREE PREVENTIVE SERVICES PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS COVERED

AVOID A 2% OR MORE PENALTY FOR NOT ENROLLING!

4900 W Expressway 83. suite 204 McAllen TX

www.eeinsuranceagency.com

“A Child’s bright mind leads to a bright future”

We hope the New Year brings with it another year of love, hope, and happiness.

From all of us at Vanguard Academy, Happy New Year Vanguard Academy 1200 E Kelly Ave, Pharr, TX 78577 (956) 781-1701 www.vanguardacademy.org

6 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

What’s Inside?

January 2015 Vol. 4 / Issue 10

On The Cover

To submit story ideas, events, or comments: valleychristianmagazine@gmail.com

13 Private School Edition

A spotlight of Valley Private Schools Cover Photo by Johnny Q Photography

Private School Spotlight

CONNECT WITH US:

14. Agape Christian School 15. Covenant Christian Academy 17. Macedonian Christian Academy 18. Mid Valley Christian School 19. South Texas Christian Academy 20. St. John’s Episcopal School 21. St. Matthew’s Episcopal School 22. St. Paul Lutheran School 23. Vanguard Academy 24. All Star Academy

Twitter: @vcmagazine Tax Deductible donations can be mailed to:

Texas Christian Publications c/o Valley Christian Magazine 3827 North 10th Street, 301 McAllen, TX 78501

956-314-O161

For Advertising Contact:

Stella Gallegos 956-739-1663

Features

Stella@valleychristianmagazine.com

Ronnie Guerra Vela 956-599-8036

28. Kids Talk About God

What Can We Learn from Jesus Turning Water into Wine?

Ronnie@valleychristianmagazine.com

Leila Bird 512-501-9471

29. Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Leila@valleychristianmagazine.com

2015 Camps!

Renee Gracia 956-367-5978

Renee@valleychristianmagazine.com

Christian Torres Publisher

Christian@valleychristianmagazine.com

Stephanie Torres Accounting

stephanie@valleychristianmagazine.com

Columnists 8. Abram Gomez Resolution 2015

Jonathan Martin

10. Lysa Terkeurst

James Alexander

30. Dave Ramsey

Designer

Distribution

Johnny Q Photography Photographer

Valley Christian Magazine is a free monthly magazine published by

Valley Christian Magazine is a publication of Texas Christian Publications (a 501c3 organization). Texas Christian Publications reserves the right to edit, modify, revise, rewrite and reject editorial materials and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors, omissions or consequences arising from it. All correspondence to this publication becomes the property of Texas Christian Publications. Texas Christian Publications shall be held harmless indemnified against any third-party claims. Texas Christian Publications accepts no claims made by photographers, agents or contributors. Writers’ and columnists’ opinions are not necessarily those of Texas Christian Publications or its publishers. Advertisements appearing in Texas Christian Publications present only the viewpoint of the advertisers. We assume no responsibility for advertising claims made in this publication. Valley Christian Magazine is printed in the United States. Reproduction without the expressed written permission prohibited.

Copyright 2014.

/ Printed in the USA.

But Victory Seems so Far Away 5 steps to being Financially Fit in the New Year

RESOLUTION 2015

Welcome to 2015!

This is a year full of opportunities, challenges, and the unknown. No one can know for sure what will make headlines this year. However, as believers, we can know some things are for certain. God is still sovereign and is in complete control.

Jesus still saves and He is sufficient.

The Holy Spirit is still active and at work in the lives of people!

need to act as in the case of David versus Goliath. Confidence in the Lord takes the weight off my own personal ability and places it on a God who is able to sustain me.

3.

Remember it’s a process with God. As you go through the year, remember that you are a work in progress. One of the biggest struggles most believers have in their walk of faith is that their circumstance is not changing fast enough. The book of Jeremiah teaches the lesson that He is the Potter and we are the clay.

Make the decision to stay on course, so that you can see the growth. Don’t compare other’s progress to your process. Nothing will be wasted.

“...we can know As you prepare some things are for your goals and make your New certain. God is still Year resolutions, here are some sovereign and is in statements to help encourage complete control. you in your faith Jesus still saves and to keep accomplishing everyHe is sufficient.” thing God has for you this year!

1.

Abram Gomez

2.

is the Executive Pastor at Valley International Christian Center in San Benito, Texas. He serves under the Leadership of Bishop Jaime Loya, and is a graduate of Southwestern Assemblies of God University. Abram has helped to develop leadership in various ministries and programs at VICC. He and his wife, Rebecca, currently reside in Harlingen, TX and are parents to Isabella Claire.

8 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

Recommit my obedience to God. To obey means to carry out or fulfill the command. Throughout the Bible, we see God instructing His people. On one occasion, God gave a king by the name of Saul some specific instructions for him to follow. Saul didn’t carry out the orders, and as a result, suffered the consequences. Our obedience determines our outcome. Obedience to God is what qualifies us for the next set of instructions. The blessing of God falls on obedience. Make a commitment to obey God this year in everything, and watch His blessing come upon your life!

Renew my confidence in God. Many of us do not move forward simply because we have lost confidence in God’s ability. Lack of confidence will keep us from stepping out. If we are going to accomplish significant things for God, we will need confidence in His ability. Confidence in the Lord gives us the courage we

4.

Reclaim excellence for God. Understand that you are capable of something better. God did not create you to be average or mediocre. He has called us to be a cut above. He has called us to be a people of excellence.

I have learned that God blesses excellence. Mediocrity may not keep you out of heaven, but it will keep you from experiencing God’s best for your life. It will prevent you from ascending to your highest personal level. I have learned that excellence is not about having the best, but doing the best with what you have.

This is a year to allow your relationship with God to be renewed, refreshed, and restored. As you abide in the vine, the fruit from the branches of your life will remain. May the Lord favor you in 2015!

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 9

But Victory Seems So Far Away

By Lysa TerKeurst Lysa TerKeurst is a New York Times best selling author and speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith through following Jesus Christ. As president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, Lysa has lead thousands over the past 15 years to help make their walk with God an invigorating journey. In the midst of her ministry, though, Lysa is a real, everyday woman who simply seeks to glorify God through her life and family.

Used by Permission. All Rights Reserved. www.LysaTerkeurst.com

I

started out this year with great determination to be victorious in my healthy eating resolutions. But then life happened.

more can seem so far away. And faraway goals are hard to hang onto when life drains us and it feels like those French fries sure could fill us.

Like when the upstairs toilet clogged and flooded my kitchen ceiling. Or when I got stuck in traffic, yelled at my kids, and missed an important meeting.

Set mini-goals physically by getting a strategy for making healthy choices. How can you prepare now to drink eight glasses of water today?

What is a healthy snack option you’ll turn to when those afternoon salty and sugary cravings start calling? Are you going out to eat at a restaurant? Use the Internet to look up the nutritional information for their menu so you can make informed healthy choices. If hit with an unexpected temptation today, what healthy go-to script or Bible verse can you arm yourself with in advance to combat justifications and compromises?

Those are the moments when my long-term goals to get healthy don’t feel as important as my need for immediate comfort.

I just want to blow my healthy eating plan out of frustration with something gooey, sweet, and cream laden.

I bet you’ve had something occur this week that doesn’t make you feel very victorious either. A sick child, a missed deadline, tension in a friendship, or a number on the scale that almost made you cry. I understand. But may I encourage you? Even in the midst of trying circumstances and bad days, you can be victorious.

You can be victorious even when the distance between your present reality and your desired goal seems so far apart.

How? Set mini-goals.

Losing twenty, fifty, one hundred pounds, or

Each mini-goal you accomplish today is a moment of victory.

We can also set mini-goals spiritually. We will always be most victorious when we are in the center of God’s will. When we are in God’s will, we are able to see our trials from God’s perspective — through the lens of His grace and truth.

But what is God’s will? The apostle Paul wrote, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks . . . for this is God’s will” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 – 18). This is an explicit description of what God’s will is. To be in the center of God’s will is to be a woman who is joyful, prayerful, and thankful.

10 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

Be joyful: Intentionally look around for measures of joy each day. There is joy in simply being alive and in being redeemed by God. Remember, joy is a choice we make, not a feeling we hope to get from our circumstances. It’s good to look for the good, to celebrate it even in small ways. Doing so is a moment of victory.

Be prayerful: Focus your thoughts on God through prayer. When I was tempted with unhealthy choices, it used to trigger a pity party.

Now, I turn my temptations into triggers to pray. Turning to God rather than turning to food is a moment of victory.

Be thankful: When I focus on how much weight I still need to lose, it brings me down and I start entertaining thoughts of defeat. However, when I focus on all that I’m gaining with God through this process of losing the weight, it makes me all the more determined to keep going. What is something positive you’ve gained during your weight loss journey so far? God’s activity can be seen much more readily when we focus on what we do have rather than what we don’t have.

We can’t control our circumstances, but we can control our choices. Setting mini-goals physically and spiritually positions us for victory today. Indeed, you can be victorious even when the distance between your present reality and your desired goal seems so far apart.

JOHNNY

JOHNNY

PHOTOGR APHY

PHOTOGR APHY

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 11

12 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

A Special Advertising Section

der way, the New Year gets un Happy New Year! As gistering e Valley gear up for re th ss ro ac ols ho sc e s like privat ing school year. Seem m co up e th r fo ts en new stud ow it! It’s ll be here before we kn a long way off…but it’ already 2015! choice when ake the best possible So to help families m ion, Valley private school educat g in er id ns co to es of m it co to share with you a few ed cit ex is e in az ag M Christian ailable to you. the many options av hools along goes out to all the sc A special ‘thank you’ worked so hard and their team who with their principals ~VCM to make this possible!

Front Cover Models (l-r): Annie, 10th Grade – Macedonian Christian Academy Francisco, 4th Grade – St. John’s Episcopal School Allyson, 8th Grade – Covenant Christian Academy Hayley, 6th Grade – Mid Valley Christian School Thank you to Johnny Q Photography (see page 11)

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 13

14 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

Covenant Christian Academy

“Using Biblical Principles to Produce Excellence in Every Area of Life” Covenant Christian Academy 956-686-7886 4201 North Ware Road McAllen, TX 78504 www.ccamcallen.com Principal: Milton Gonzalez Admissions: Crystal Gully Applications accepted beginning Jan. 2015 K2-8th Covenant Christian Academy (CCA), an independent school established in 1995, is dedicated to integrating Biblical Principles into all subjects. We are not affiliated with or financially underwrtitten by any single church/ denomination. The Holy Bible is our standard and we daily instill our motto into the hearts of our students.

We provide a Christian worldview with the highest academics in a rigourous traditional background while encouraging young minds to think creatively and analytically. Every child in our 400+ student body is lovingly nurtured and our campus emanates an atmosphere of family.

At Covenant Christian Academy we value our families and recognize the importance of

working together as a team. Communication is pivotal to the success of our students. Our parents are updated via RenWeb through our ccamcallen.com website and quick reminders are texted to mobile devices by ParentAlert.

Your Student would be a welcome addition to our CCA Family. Call us at (956) 686-7886 to schedule your campus tour and discover the CCA Advantage firsthand. We look forward to partnering with you!

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 15

• Providing high-quality Christian Education since 1990 • K3 – 12th grade • College Prep.

• Current graduates enrolled and excelling in such universities as: Univ. of Texas, Texas A&M, PanAm, Sam Houston State, Baylor • College Credit courses offered • Sports and Fine Arts programs from elementary through high school Faith Christian Academy has been established to train young people for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Luke 2:52 tells us that “…Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” It is our desire to train young people in these four areas given in Luke 2:52: Intellectual, Physical, Spiritual and Social Faith Christian Academy is an extension of each home represented by the student body. The authority and responsibility for all aspects of a child’s development have been given to the parents. Responsibility for education has been laid upon both the home and the church. FCA is the ministry of Faith Baptist Church used to carry out this responsibility. We seek to assist families as they raise their children in “the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Our goal is to provide a high quality education, but our highest priority is to increase within the students a desire to please God in all that they do. Our desired result can only be achieved when all three entities (church, home, and school) work together.

We believe that the Bible is the final authority for education. Classroom instruction is from a Biblical perspective to provide the students with a Biblical viewpoint of life. We are committed to education that revolves around Biblical truth.

We Are

Knowledge - Nobility - Integrity - Godliness - Humility - Thankfulness - Service 956-581-7777 4301 N. Shary Rd. Palmhurst TX, 78573 www.fcaknight.org - facebook/faithchristianacademyknights

16 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

In 1987 Macedonian Christian Academy began serving Christian families in the Rio Grande Valley. Since then, this ministry has been developing Christian leaders while fulfilling its mission to exalt Christ, build families, and make disciples.

HOME OF THE LIONS

Dinner Theater

Elementary Campus 401 N. Val Verde Rd. Donna, TX 78537 Ph. (956) 464-7950

www.mcalions.com

Jr. High and High School Campus 135 E. State HWY 495 Alamo, TX 78516 Fax. (956) 464-6727

missionevan@yahoo.com

Principal: Santiago W. Curling

Enrollment begins on Monday, January 12, 2015

High School Choir

Roarin’ Lions Band

Developing Christian Leaders since 1987

Mid Valley Christian School Providing a quality education in a Christian environment.

Celebrating 40 years of service to children in the mid-valley area.

Mid Valley Christian School 956-968-6232 417 S. Westgate Dr. Weslaco, TX 78596 www.mvcs.co

Safe, Christian Environment - We are dedicated to providing a welcoming, nurturing environment for our students where respect, kindness, and acceptance are fostered.

Challenging Academic Curriculum - We feel an obligation, responsibility and privilege to provide the very best education possible. MVCS uses the A Beka curriculum in kinder through 6th grades and the Accelerated Christian Education curriculum in grades 7 through 12.

Reasonable Tuition Rates – Although no one can place a true value on a quality Christian education, we take great pride in being able to offer our services at a price that fits into most budgets.

We will begin registration for the 2015-16 school year on April 7th.

18 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

South Texas Christian Academy “Mental - Spiritual - Physical”

South Texas Christian Academy Principal: Jim Donlon

The South Texas Christian Academy family exists to show children Jesus, nurture their love for Him and others, teach them to think, and empower them to serve.

956-682-1117 7001 N. Ware Road McAllen,Texas www.stca.ws

The Pre-K to 12th Grade Campus offers, among other things, AP and Honor classes, Jr. High and High School Athletics, SAT and ACT test preparation and after-school care. The school currently enrolls 330 students. Some of the programs that we use to enrich our curriculum are Accelerated Reader, Accelerated Math, My Access Writing, and Renaissance Learning’s testing for Early Literacy, Star Math, Star Reading. In music we have band, choral, and strings.

South Texas Christian Academy is operated by the Seventh- day Adventist Church to provide a spiritually oriented education for children. A belief in the existence of the Creator God is fundamental in the philosophy of Seventh-day Adventist schools.

We respect His divine authority and recognize His intervention in human affairs. We believe that true education develops the spiritual, mental, and physical powers of each student; pre- paring them for the joy of service in this life and for the higher joy of service in the life to come.

To achieve this goal, we encourage each student to:

• Develop a personal relationship with God and his fellow men as stated in Matthew 2:37-39 • Master the basic academic skills • Value labor, physical and mental, as the blessing God intended.

• Cultivate physical fitness, mental ability, and moral purity as the blessing God intended Enrollment: Accepting applications for 2nd semester January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 19

St. John’s Episcopal School “A Good Place to Grow”

St. John’s Episcopal School provides each student with a wellrounded academic program that develops their full competence, creativity, character, and compassion in a Christian environment.

Through attainment of this mission, we produce responsible young individuals equipped to live a life worthy of a child of God. 956-686-0231 2500 North 10th Street McAllen, TX 78501 www.stjohns-mcallen.org Head of School: Michael Waller

We dedicate ourselves to challenging children in the classroom (2K – Grade 6) and celebrating their accomplishments every step of the way.

In addition to strong academic preparation, members of the St. John’s faculty bring a life-long love of learning, extensive knowledge, and solid commitment to each and every child.

Experiencing St. John’s first-hand is the best way to fully appreciate our wonderful school. Please contact us to schedule your visit today.

Enrollment:

Open enrollment for the 2015-2016 school year begins on February 2, 2015

Accepting Applications beginning February 2, 2015 for students 2 years-old (2K) through Grade 6 St. John’s Episcopal School honors the trust that parents place in us and we embrace that responsibility as we prepare our students for the future.

20 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

St. Matthew’s Episcopal School

St. Matthew’s Episcopal School

“A Christian community committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth for our children today” What Makes Us Different?

Why St. Matthew’s Episcopal School?

• Daily Chapel • SAES Accredited • Service Learning and Stewardship Projects • Cub Scouts • Girl Scouts • Community Affiliations: UTPA, South Texas Literacy Coalition, Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library, Oxford School of Reynosa

• Family Oriented Environment • Safe Environment • Highly Qualified and Dedicated Staff • Enriching Curriculum • Technology • Extended Day Service • Soccer • Track and field • UIL

Now Enrolling students in Pre K3 - 6th Grade Call 956-383-4202 for more information Mayani Ballesteros - Head of School 2620 Crestview Edinburg, TX 78539 Website: www.stmattrgvschool.org

St. Paul Lutheran School Educating Christ-centered global leaders since 1943

St. Paul Lutheran School

National Lutheran School Accredited serving Pre-Kindergarten – Grade 8

Principal: Dr. Jeanne Kretzmann

Openings available for current school year

956-682-2345 Fax: 956-682-7148 300 W. Pecan Blvd.

McAllen, TX 78501 www.stpaulmcallen.com

Enrollment for 2015-16 opens Monday, January 12

• • • • • • • • • • •

Christian academic excellence A safe, caring environment Certified educators who teach from a Lutheran, Christ-centered perspective Multicultural student body An average student ratio of 15:1 Music, art, computers, PE, and Bible lessons for PreK4 – Grade 8 Hot lunches and healthy snacks Recess on a fun playground A Christian athletic league after school sports program Before school care without charge beginning at 7:00 a.m.

After School Care from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Please visit us or call 956-682-2345 to schedule a tour or to request information.

You can also visit www.stpaulmcallen.com.

22 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

“A Purpose in Life...

A Reason for Learning”

Vanguard Academy

A Public Charter School For the Fine Arts - Tuition Free Public Charter School - Met All State Academic Standards - Fine Arts Specialized Curriculum - College Dual Enrollment/AP Programs - Character Development Education For Enrollment information, contact one of the following Vanguard Academy Campuses: Elementary I (PreK - 4th)

1200 E Kelly Ave Pharr, TX 78577 (956) 283-1700

Elementary II (PreK - 5th)

901 South Athol Pharr, TX 78577 (956) 702-0134

Elementary III (PreK - 7th)

155 E Business 83 Alamo, TX 78516 (956) 702-2548

Secondary (5th - 12th)

1200 E Kelly Ave Pharr, TX 78577 (956) 283-0600

All Star Academy Early Learning Center 2800 Zinnia McAllen, TX 78504 956-686-0800 allstaracademy@ymail.com National Accreditation awarded by The National Accreditation Commission For Early Care and Education Programs 2014 Recognized by the Texas Education Agency as a Preschool Center of Excellence 2012 Accredited Texas Rising Star 4 Star Center Owner: Theresa Fasci Ochoa, MS. Ed., Childcare Health Consultant Our School: At our school, children experience a well-rounded balance of learning activities and develop important skills needed to be successful in school.

What We Offer:

• Award Winning curriculum • Character Education • Technology Friendly • Uniforms • Structured Environment • Low Teacher to Student Ratio • Nutritious Meals • Summer Camps

All Star Academy believes that high quality early childcare benefits children for lifelong success.

To Learn More about the Early Learning Programs at All Star Academy, come by and visit us.

24 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

You can see the wonderful impact The Little Gym can have on your child when you join us for an introductory experience.

Discover your kid's happy place with our Introductory Experience The Little Gym of McAllen tlgmcallentx.com (956) 687-5353

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 25

…

Upload your Christian Band YouTube video along with a $35.00 registration fee to www.trinityworshipcenter.net or email your YouTube video to Chrissy@trinityworshipcenter.net.

Deadline for band entries is Jan. 30, 2015.

1st Place: $1,000.00 2nd Place: $700.00 Tickets $15.00; available at Trinity Worship Center, Viva 3rd Place: $500.00 Life Christian Book Store, Peoples Choice: $300.00 McAllen

See the official Rules and Regulations on our FB Page www.facebook.com/SouthTexasBattle 26 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

www.kvmv.org

1. Francesca Battistelli - He Knows My Name CD: If We’re Honest

2. Big Daddy WeaveOverwhelmed CD: Love Come To Life

4. Unspoken – Start A Fire CD: Unspoken

Try our delectable truffles. We have 17 flavors to choose from and they can be packaged in individual boxes for the perfect wedding favor. Or try our strawberries dipped in 3 kinds of chocolate.

We also offer bride and groom tuxedo decorating.

We can deliver to your wedding site.

Feature: Toffee Krunch Buy 3 Chocolates and get one free of equal or lesser value!

6. Chris Tomlin – Jesus Loves Me CD: Love Ran Red

3. Danny Gokey – Hope In Front Of Me CD: Hope In Front Of Me

5. MercyMe – Greater

CD: Welcome To The New

7. Lauren Daigle – How Can It Be CD: How Can It Be

10% discount on any orders of $200 or more

Palms Crossing Shopping Center * 3300 Expressway 83, Bldg. 100, Suite 170* McAllen, Texas 78501*

956.631.3800

8. Crowder – Come As You Are

*email:RMCFMcallen@yahoo.com Visit our website at: http://rmcf.com/tx/mcallen50755 or at faceboook.com/rockymountainchocolatefactorymcallen

CD: Neon Steeple

January

2015

9. Selah – You Amaze Us CD: You Amaze Us

valleychristianmagazine.com 27

What Can We Learn From Jesus Turning Water Into Wine?

W

e can learn that you shouldn’t rush Jesus, but put your faith in him,” says Taylor, 11. Also, we can learn that sometimes a good deed goes unnoticed, and that’s OK.” In the ancient Middle East, wedding celebrations could last for days. To run out of wine would be an embarrassment that might last a lifetime for a bride and groom. The miracle at the wedding feast was the first sign that Jesus performed (John 2:1-11).

When Jesus’ mother told him they had run out of wine, he said his hour had not yet come.

One easy way to discover what Jesus was thinking is to see how the word “hour” is used later in the Gospel of John.

On the night before his trial and crucifixion, Jesus prayed, “Father, the hour has come.

Glorify your son, that your son also may glorify you” (John 17:1).

Jesus had a sense of mission and a timetable.

He knew that he was destined to die on the cross for all our sins. God would glorify him by raising him from the dead as victor over death. Jesus carefully unfolded his ministry so that he had time to train disciples to carry on his mission of preaching the good news to the entire world.

No one except Jesus’ mother, disciples and the

servants who filled the stone pots with water knew the origin of the wine. The master of the feast who tasted the wine asked the groom why he didn’t serve the best wine first.

of Jesus’ day, calling your mother “woman” was not a sign of disrespect.

The result of the miracle: “His disciples believed in Him” (John 2:11b).

“The wine was delicious because Jesus made it,” says Anjali, 8.

There were times in Jesus’ ministry when he performed spectacular miracles in the open for everyone to see. In the last days of his ministry, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead in a town close to Jerusalem (John 11). It’s as though he dared the religious authorities to arrest him. The wedding feast at the beginning of his ministry was not the time to call attention to himself in front of a large crowd.

Some people have accused Jesus of being disrespectful by calling his mother “woman” instead of “mother.” Again, a simple word search on “woman” proves this argument false. When Jesus hung on the cross, he looked down and saw his mother standing with the Apostle John. He said, “Woman, behold your son!” (John 19:26). In the next breath, he said to John, “Behold your mother.”

From that day forward, John took Mary into his house and cared for her. How could Jesus not respect his mother when he showed compassion by making provision for her?

Some things don’t translate well from one language to another. In the Jewish culture

Help spearhead the expansion of one of America's Most Respected and Fastest Growing companies and develop a passive/residual income on a part-time/spare-time basis so you may: ~ Devote most time to your calling/ministry ~ Support your favorite charity ~ Support Foreign/Home Missions ~ Spend more time with your family

For more information please visit www.IncomeWithEnergy.com 1Cor. 10:31; Col. 3:17,23

28 valleychristianmagazine.com January

2015

Some people equate spirituality with being a recluse and living off birdseed. The fact that Jesus accepted the wedding party invitation and turned the water into wine proves otherwise. Some people with a tendency toward asceticism have tried to make the case that this was grape juice. It doesn’t work. The original Greek text of the New Testament uses the word for wine. This text shouldn’t give anyone an excuse for getting smashed either.

Think about this: Like a laser, Jesus focused on his mission of offering himself as a sacrifice for our sins.

Memorize this truth: “My hour has not yet come” (John 2:4b).

Ask this question: Do you think about a mission God has given you?

Carey Kinsolving’s Kids Talk About God syndicated column is available as a free, weekly family devotional by email at KidsTalkAboutGod.org. Also, view a Bible-lesson archive of all columns. Kinsolving is the co-founder of the RGV Children’s Arts Festival. One Valley child will win a vacation for up to five family members to the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch in Parshall, Colorado plus a check for $1000 to help pay for travel expenses. For details go to KidsTalkAboutGod.org/rgv.

ALL STAR WEEKEND

December 5-7, 2014

South Padre Island $150

SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE ADVANCE December 10-12, 2014

Camp Zephyr $150

WEEKEND OF CHAMPIONS

April 24-26, 2015

Camp Zephyr $150

Leadership Camp

June 8-12, 2015 Hardin Simmons University Abilene, TX $315

FCA Team Camp

June 23-26, 2015 Texas A&M Kingsville $350/camper

Texas A&M FAMILY Camp July 1-5, 2015

College Station, TX

$150 per family (plus $150 for each camper)

Texas A&M Sports Camp

For scholarship information or to register, contact your local staff or visit www.southtexasfca.org.

Please contact rmartinez@fca.org if you have any questions.

July 2-5, 2015

College Station, TX $395

Coaches Enrichment WEEKEND

July 9-12, 2015

La Torretta Lake Resort and Spa Lake Conroe, Montgomery, TX

$350 single, $700 couple, $150 per child ($1000 limit per family)

FOLLOW US! Twitter: @TXFCAcamps

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 29 Facebook: facebook.com/texasfcacamps

5 Steps to Being Financially Fit in the New Year

by Dave Ramsey

I

t’s another new year, and that means it’s time for yet another set of resolutions. But if you’re like most Americans, you’ll probably forget your goals by mid-February. So how can you turn your financial resolutions into reality in 2015?

Make a plan. The number-one mistake people make with their

money is they don’t bother with a plan. They have no idea where their money is going! The money comes in and the money goes out, and only the names are changed to protect the innocent.

You have to do a budget! Put a name to every dollar you earn.

Tell your money what to do instead of wondering where it went.

Remember, it takes at least three months of practice and dedication to really make your budget work.

Dave y e s m a R

Save for emergencies. Murphy is going to visit. You know Murphy: If something can go wrong, it will. I promise you it’s going to rain from time to time, so you’ll need an umbrella. Save $1,000 in cash as quickly as possible for an emergency fund before you begin attacking your debt.

After you pay off all your debt except for your mortgage, increase your emergency fund to cover three to six months of expenses.

Layoffs happen, cars break down, and kids get sick. A fully funded emergency fund can turn these disasters into nothing more than minor inconveniences.

Don’t make the mistake of putting life’s emergencies on a credit card. You’ll end up paying on them for months or even years to come. An emergency fund gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can handle whatever life throws at you.

Use the debt snowball. List all of your debts, except your house, from smallest payoff balance to largest. Make the minimum payment on every debt except the smallest and put every extra dollar you can find toward the smallest debt until it is paid.

If you can find a way to generate extra income, do it! Take on a part-time job for a while or have a big yard sale and get rid of that stuff you never use, wear or didn’t want in the first place!

Then focus on paying off the next smallest debt, then the next, then the next, rolling the money over each time.

Have plastic surgery. Cut up all of your credit cards. We call this a plasectomy. Everyone says they pay off their credit cards each month, but the truth is virtually no one does.

Carnegie Melon conducted a study that showed when McDonalds began accepting credit cards, the average purchase increased by 47 percent. People are more reluctant to spend money when they see tens and twenties leaving their wallets and going into someone else’s. You really feel it when you have to lay out cash. Get rid of the credit cards!

Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored five New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover, EntreLeadership and Smart Money Smart Kids. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 8 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Ramsey on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

30 valleychristianmagazine.com January

Invest for the future. When you’re debt-free and have a fully

funded emergency fund, you’re ready to start planning for the future. Invest 15 percent of your income in a 401(k), Roth IRA and other tax-advantaged retirement plans. Why not more? Because the extra money you’ll save can go toward saving for college (if you have kids) or paying off your home early.

Do these things sound like a dream? Well, I can tell you from experience that some dreams do come true. If you’re willing to be disciplined and focused, live on a budget, and have a plan for your money, the sky’s the limit. Make 2015 the year you begin to live like no one else, so later you really can live like no one else!

2015

January

2015

valleychristianmagazine.com 31

Raul “Rudy” Rodriguez

attorney at law

Some historians may argue that among the greatest restoration stories of mankind are the European Renaissance or perhaps the post-World War II era.

The cultural movement known as the European Renaissance roughly took place during the 14th through 17th centuries. This moment in history saw the face of Europe evolve with respect to its arts, architecture and long held science tenets. It also saw a rediscovery of the Greco-Roman classical knowledge and a rebirth of the study of Latin and vernacular languages. It served as a bridge between the Middle Ages and the Modern Era.

Closer to home, America saw its restoration take place in the years that followed World War II. During this era, couples who could not afford families during the Great Depression made up for lost time.

The mood in America suddenly became optimistic. At that time, the unemployment rate of the Great Depression dropped dramatically and the economy improved substantially. The G.I. Bill empowered many honorable service members to finish high school and attend college. As their skills were improved, so was the financial well-being of their families.

But, without a doubt the greatest restoration that can take place is when a person does as Romans 10:9 instructs us to do. Romans 10:9 says: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” The message is simple: invite Christ into your heart and make him your personal Lord and Savior. At that time, your restoration will be complete.

Next He will do as Philippians 1:6 says, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” As you seek and strive to honor God with your life, He will reward you by allowing you to take on His characteristics. Hosea 14:4 says, “I will bring my people back to me. I will love them with all my heart; No longer am I angry with them.” I pray that you will invite Christ into your heart and allow Him to restore you!

At my office, I also want to be part of your restoration plan, albeit in a different way. I pray that God will use me for His honor and glory in helping me address your needs. If you have been involved in an auto accident and/or other serious injury or if you have lost a loved one as a result of someone’s negligence, I will do my best to restore some sense of normality to your life. I will also help you in matters involving family law, criminal law and real estate and will issues. As always, I bear in mind that in honoring God with the way I handle my business relationships I will be honoring you my esteemed client.

Raul “Rudy” Rodriguez

www.raulrudyrodriguezlaw.com Phone: 956.380.1421 / Toll Free: 877.480.1421 www.raulrudyrodriguezlaw.com Fax: 956.380.2920 / Mobile: 956.655.5455

Phone: 956.380.1421 / Toll Free: / Fax: 956.380.2920 / Mobile: 956.655.5455 511 W. University / Edinburg, TX877.480.1421 78539 e-mail: anointed511@gmail.com 511 W. University / Edinburg, TX2015 78539 / e-mail: rrodlaw@hotmail.com 32 valleychristianmagazine.com January