Now in our 9th Year!
Did Obama’s Indecisiveness on Syria Help Postpone World War III? by Michael Youssef
T
he buzz in the Middle East media is that the real reason President Obama changed his mind about striking Syria a few weeks ago was not, in fact, because he is indecisive. Nor was it that the concept of war goes against his grain. Nor that there’s a major division between his personal advisers and government officials. Nor that the Arab League voted against America striking Syria and wanted the United Nations to intervene. Nor even that the British House of Commons pulled the rug out from under him by voting against a British attack on Syria—essentially slapping Obama’s primary
supporter, Prime Minister Cameron, on the face. Rather, it’s believed that the main reason for his postponing an attack was a message sent from the Iranians through the Russians stating they were prepared to use chemical weapons to attack Israel. Whether Iran was planning to do that directly or indirectly through its proxies (mainly Hezbollah), it is not clear. Certainly Hezbollah has been beating the war drums of late. But whatever Obama’s reasons may be, many people are breathing a sigh of relief that what could have become World War III has been delayed for the time being. For the first time in many decades,
the eastern Mediterranean Sea is crowded with American and Russian warships. And that is not a comforting sign to those in the region. Most of the Western world is underestimating the fact that the Shiite sect of Islam, championed by Iran, feels its back is against the wall—that it has to do something, even if it’s an irrational something. To them, the loss of Syria could start a domino effect, leading then to a loss of Iraq and consequently the loss of the Shiite’s dream of hegemony in the Muslim world. That is something most of the Gulf states, which are predominantly Sunni, would welcome with open arms.
Furthermore, it’s vitally important to remember that Syria is no Libya. There, the Sunni population was merely envious that their fellow Sunni despot, Moammar Gadhafi, was hogging billions of petro dollars. They wanted to get their hands on it, or at least have a say in spending it. So while some have criticized President Obama for backtracking and wanting Congress to share in the blame if things go south, we should be thankful his hesitation may have postponed bringing us to the brink. continued on page 3
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ATTORNEYS Dee Wampler & Joseph Passanise Criminal Trial Attorneys 2974 East Battlefield in Springfield (417) 882-9300
CHIROPRACTIC CARE Victory Chiropractic Dr. Bo Bandy 800 St Hwy 248, Ste.2-B Branson, MO 65616 417-337-7077
Gregg E. Stade - Real estate, Business Law and Estate Planning at 600 W. Republic Rd. Ste. A 100 in Springfield (417) 889-5572
CLOTHING John’s Suit Shop We Make The Look Affordable 1315 S. Glenstone in Springfield (417) 863-6919
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CPO 4145 South National Springfield (417) 891-2200 www.CPOBooks.com Redeemed Music & Books 4140 S. National Springfield • 417- 877-9294 Mardel Christian & Educational Supply 1533 E. Battlefield, Springfield. (417) 881-6338 BUSINESS SERVICES Big 3 Design Tom Elledge 497 Van Buren Rd Branson • 417-337-1388 Web design & Hosting, Business Cards, Logo Creation, Brochures, CD Covers, Posters, Signs, Banners, Vehicle Wraps, Ad Specialties & More! www.Big3Design.com
Computer Renaissance 308 E. Republic, Springfield (417) 882-7788 - Steve Yates
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S.T.O.R.M. Mixed Martial Arts Rockaway Beach HAIR STYLING Tim’s Headquarters Salon 180 Mall Road, Suite C Hollister, MO Next to Family Pharmacy • (417) 348-1958 HEALTH & BEAUTY RENU- Feel, Look & Live Great Branson Town Center 566 B Gretna Rd • Branson (417-335-3660 See ad on page 7 CC SILVER, LLC Colloidal Silver (Ionic) Liquid or gel- Dietary mineral supplement • Will ship (800) 683-5718 HOT TUBS & POOLS Spa Place Hwy 160 • 1011 N. Kenneth Nixa, MO 417-725-1008 www.spaplaceinc.com HVAC Goff Heating & Air Serving Taney, Stone, Christian & Boone Counties • 24 Hour Emergency Service • No Overtime Fees 417-334-3681 See ad on page 8 INSPIRATIONAL GIFTS P. Graham Dunn 3500 N. Gretna Rd • Branson 417-334-9801 www.pgrahamdunnBanson.com
DENTISTRY Kay E. Knipschild, D.D.S. Quality, Caring, General Dentistry 3841 S. Jefferson Springfield • (417) 887-2929
INSURANCE American Family Insurance Teresa Zucchini- McClish 3050 E. Battlefield Springfield • (417) 883-3039
ELECTRICAL SERVICE Cornerstone Electric 24 Hour Emergency Service. 417-582-0621
INVESTMENTS Edward Jones - Xavier Sinniah Financial Advisor
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COPY SERVICES Copy Run Yes We Can!- Lucas & Tracy Banks 4510 N. Gretna Rd • Branson, MO copyrun@msn.com (417) 239-1313
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For Reading and Supporting the Ozarks Christian Voice continued from front page For its part, Israel, like a loyal ally, has publicly said it is ready for whatever may come. But privately, many Israelis are also breathing a sigh of relief. But for how long? Next week will probably tell. Meanwhile, the Syrian refugees keep pouring into Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey. I am grateful our ministry partners in Lebanon and Jordan are working tirelessly to make the miserable lives of many of those refuges a little bit tolerable. I pray they will be sustained until the day sanity and common sense returns to the region. But sanity is not prevailing today. Americans who are treating this crisis with a ho-hum approach—focusing their atten-
tion instead on Miley Cyrus—need to understand we could be facing a catastrophic event. For believers, it is time to pray that God will give wisdom to those making globalimpact decisions. Michael Youssef, Ph.D., is the founder and president of Leading the Way With Dr. Michael Youssef, a worldwide ministry that leads the way for people living in spiritual darkness to discover the light of Christ through the creative use of media and on-theground ministry teams. Youssef was born in Egypt.
The Classic Motor Inn is a family owned and operated Branson hotel that is conveniently located at 2384 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway so we have easy access to all of the best Branson attractions. Opened in 1993 by the Carter family, the tradition continues with the Morin family. The Classic Motor Inn is Branson's premiere hotel for the classic car enthusiast. A clean, comfortable, family atmosphere make the Classic Motor Inn the hotel you will return to again, and again, while staying in Branson Missouri. (417) 334-6991
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OCV Contributors Max Lucado - Crosswalk John Sacoulas - Steward & Editor Lorri Sacoulas - Steward & Publisher Virgil Peck & George Fuller Circulation Assistance Marvin & Regina ReynoldsArchivists
Veeda Smith - Branson Frontline Jeremy Storch - Ask the Rabbi... Dave Ramsey - Act Your Wage Dee Wampler - A Minute with a Man Lee Grady- Fire in My Bones George Kurland - Staff Photographer
y ! wl led e N ode m Re
Forgiveness. The Bottom Line of Christian Living. Experience the Soul-Quenching Relief that comes with Forgiveness!
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Barbara Fairchild appearing in the Golden Corral Showroom
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To Fast, Feast, Rest or Work, that is the question! How can Christians who regard the same Bible infallible come to so many different conclusions? by John G. Sacoulas, managing editor, OCV I grew up Greek Orthodox until I was around seven and then my family attended a Methodist church for a few years and then we joined the World Wide Church of God for over 14 years. After that I enrolled in a Baptist College and attended the Church of God (7th Day) while living on top of a pentecostal church in an apartment once occupied by Kathryn Kuhlman. ( I used to have dreams of her floating around in her long yellow chiffon gown) People of Christian faith all over the world for the last 2,000 years have one thing in common: to know God more and to serve Him properly. Why then the different factions, perspectives, and schisms?
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com As a young seminary student over a quarter century ago, I was bewildered at the lack of unity among believers and why God permitted it. After all, couldn’t God impress upon influential Christian leaders like Billy Graham, Pat Robertson, or Oral Roberts the truth about ___________? Oh, wait a minute, they didn’t agree on everything either. (How about inserting your own personal convictions in the blank)
ognize that they view all matters of theology through their own historical paradigm and traditions of our predecessors. There is something that feels so safe in that approach. In our fallen state we all have the propensity to want to belong to a small exclusive group. If you took all the people on the face of the earth that professed Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior they would still be in the minority of the human race if that makes you feel any better.
Let me tell you examples: Sabbath or SunI am at. I Our unity as believers is found where day, Dietary suspect that if we in the redemptive work by the got all our doclaws, makeup, dresses or shed blood of Jesus the Christ trines straight and pants for stopped sinning women, movie demonstrated by our love that altogether we theater attenwouldn’t even we show for each other. dance, divorce need the sacrifice and remarof Christ. But riage, Christian or government schools, what if we got all our doctrines correct communion taken weekly, monthly or but still sinned in other areas like lack of annually, Hymns or choruses, traditional patience, gossiping, over eating, self or contemporary, dress up clothes or cacontrol, forgiving others, etc.? sual, build a church or rent, stained glass or regular, King James version or anLet’s reverse it; We got all our doctrines other translation, circumcision or uncirscrewed up but we are pretty good about cumcision, women leaders or not, patience, gossiping, over eating, self alcohol or abstinence, tithes or free will control, forgiving others, etc.? Wouldn’t offering... I think you get the gist of it. that be more Christ-like? My college buddies use to hassle me for keeping all the Levitical Holy days. I retorted that it was better than keeping sanitized pagan days. (Neither party was very gracious) Now, let’s say you have all of the above nailed down because most all Christians believe they have the correct understanding on everything. (me too) LOL. Do we apply these convictions to get in right standing with God or do we hold fast to our understanding because we already are in right standing with Him? Hmmm. Well over the years I wrestled with that conundrum quite a bit. I JUST HAD TO HAVE IT ALL NAILED DOWN! It is a very honest person who can rec-
Ironically, most Christians believe they fall short in all these areas to some degree. Even among my Sabbath keeping friends we could be at odds regarding what liberties one can take on the day of rest.
September 2013 Of course I used to say in order to love God I must love my neighbor and in order to love my neighbor I must teach him “the truth”. Alas, as one of my former professors marked on one of my dissertational rants, “A+... Brilliant research... wrong conclusion”. I believe that doctrines are important but the overwhelming amount of scripture suggests that we should not over shadow our love for one another with it. And since love covers a multitude of sins, we can never go wrong with a non judgemental grace oriented attitude (love) towards everyone we meet. God has called people all over the earth to Himself and that elect group demonstrates an incredible variety of understanding and particular response. It serves His purpose in a very mysterious way. We are not allowed to judge each other on how we respond to our calling just as we are not to judge the non Christian since they are not under the law. No matter what a person’s convictions are they will miserably fall short of perfection. This is the meaning of Jesus fulfilling all the law and the prophets. He didn’t do away with them. He just fulfilled them for us since we are unable to. Of course this will create much debate among the faithful as to how to respond to that. Again, LOVE is the only remedy. It is still the Holy Spirit’s job to call someone unto God,.. God’s job to judge them and our job is to love them.
And should one commandment be more important than another? Jesus was asked this very question by a Pharisee who was considered to be “an expert in the law” (Matthew 22:34-36). Jesus answered by saying: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important commandment. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments” (Matthew 22:37-40).
I see a bigger picture when flying on top of it. Know what I mean?
September 2013
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com Kay E. Knipschild, D.D.S.
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The following came from Tim Tebow’s Twitter posts after being cut from the New England Patriots: I would like to thank Mr. Kraft, Coach Belichick, Coach McDaniels and the entire Patriots organization for giving me the opportunity......to be a part of such a classy organization. I pray for nothing but the best for you all. I will remain in relentless pursuit......of continuing my lifelong dream of being an NFL quarterback. 2 Corinthians 12:9:And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient......boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Twitter response from: PATTIR Tebow is not only a great college quarterback- cough, cough, Heisman Trophy, cough, cough- but he was doing just fine in the NFL. His stats as a beginner were better than Elway's. Fact is, Elway didn't want to see his records in Denver eclipsed so they didn't EVER give him a real chance. THEY TRADED THEIR BEST RECEIVER THE WEEK TEBOW TOOK OVER THEN THEY TRADED THEIR OLD QB TO A TEAM IN THE SAME DIVISION IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SEASON. Who does that???? But TEBOW STILL GOT THEM TO THE PLAYOFFS. The fans loved him and, last I knew, the NFL is still a business. The jealous losers that continue to persecute Tebow will fail. With God, all things are possible. Tebow's talent will not go to waste. Just wait- he will thrive.
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www.OzarksChristianVoice.com Pastor: Andy Hassen
Springfield Church of God (7th Day)
1521 E. 24th Street N. Springfield, MO 65803
"Sharing Freedom in Christ"
(417) 831-6721
National Christian Foundation Hosts 2nd Annual Ignite Generosity Event Branson, MO – – The Ozark Mountain Country branch of National Christian Foundation (NCF) invites area non-profit organizations’ staff, volunteers, board members, and financial supporters to attend Ignite Generosity. The event will be held on Monday, September 23, 2013, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 am. aboard the Showboat Branson Belle. This year, in addition to inspiring testimonies on the impact of generosity, the Ignite Generosity event will educate participants about innovative ways to increase support to their favorite local, Christian charities while lowering their tax burdens. “We have very generous people in our area who support the many non-profit organizations that work tirelessly to meet the needs in our community,” said Howard Boyd, President of the Ozark Mountain Country branch of NCF. “But, many of these people may be unaware of various types of giving that could help them make an even greater impact on the organizations they support.
&
Whether they give $100 or $10,000 annually, or whether they give the gift of time, they will benefit from the insights presented at Ignite Generosity.” The cost to attend the September 23 Ignite Generosity event is $8 per ticket, or $40 for 6 tickets. Checks made payable to National Christian Foundation will be collected on the day of the event. Breakfast is included. To reserve your space for Ignite Generosity, email Jennifer at jmaupin@silverdollarcity.com. Seating is limited. For more information, please contact Howard Boyd at howardboyd1@me.com. For more information about the National Christian Foundation, visit:www.nationalchristian.com /heartland.
More Important Than Ever... From Steve Hare, Executive Director Bridges For Youth • 1039 W. Nichols • Springfield, Mo. 65802 (417) 864-4167
www.bridgesforyouth.net Friends, It is with great great joy that we announce that the Miracle on Madison has received it's final oc-
September 2013
A week without a Sabbath is perpetual bondage.
Sabbath School: 9:45 am Worship: 11:00 am Wednesday night: 6:30 pm
www.springfieldcog7.org
cupancy approval. Our journey of Nearly 4 years at Madison will now include the sounds of children gracing this Bridges location. Recently, we have taken another step of faith in announcing the opening of the 1230 W. Madison center. We will open this coming Monday, August 26th. The Madison center will operate every day after school from 3-6. Just as operating the other 4 Bridges For Youth Centers has been a walk of faith, so it is with this center. We have a great need for a GREAT GOD! Please pray for success in bringing new monthly partners and donations to this project. We also need snacks and drink mix for next week. To you our supporters and prayer partners, we give thanks for believing in this work. . Three and a half years ago we started a $150,000 project at Madison with zero dollars and faith that God can do anything. Indeed, the completion of the Madison center and opening it for kids has been a miracle of Biblical proportion. Please join us in praying for success on our opening day and in giving God the glory for the Madison building. This is really Good News for the kids of West Central Springfield. God bless you for your support and prayers, Steve and Kathryn Hare
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September 2013
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CONGRESSMAN REUNITES TWIN GIRLS SEPARATED AS INFANTS BY ADOPTING THEM INTO FAMILY
you have, and how much I’m not around any more, and you’re wanting to take on two extra girls. We’re not talking about one, we’re talking about twin baby girls’,” the Republican told KRMG in an interview.
by Oliver Darcy - The Blaze
But Christie Mullin reportedly told her husband to pray for wisdom.
A congressman this week reunited a pair of twin sisters who were separated at birth by adopting them into his family. The Republican congressman, Markwayne Mullin, adopted the pair of twins, Ivy and Lynette, who were reportedly born into a “bad situation” and had been
“What do you do? Do you pray to the Lord that your wife’s heart becomes as selfish as mine? God puts things in your life…and you have an obligation. Instead, I prayed that God would change mine, and I just can’t express enough — God changed my heart.”
The Mullin Family
Mullin says he is very happy his family made the decision to adopt the girls. “If you talk to anybody, they say twins need to be together. The bond between them is just amazing,” he said. “They can have a conversation with each other for hours and nobody else can understand it,” Mullin added. The congressman said his other daughter and two sons are also adjusting well.
living apart since they were 3-monthsold, after repeated pleas from his wife. Initially he had told her that his busy schedule might prevent them from being an effective father. “Basically I just stopped her, and I said ‘Babe we just don’t have time. I mean, think about it, all the new responsibilities
“Even before the adoption was finalized, from day one, these girls were their sisters. They were repeatedly saying over and over again, ‘they need a mommy and daddy, they need a mommy and daddy, they need a mommy and daddy,’” he said. “When you see this, and you hear it in your own kids and the passion they have for them… it just breaks you.”
Pie rc e A r row ’s Jim m y Fu lbr igh t Jimmy was born in Columbus, GA, but "grew up everywhere" because his father was in the Air Force. He's been intersted in music since early childhood. He is proficient on piano and loves to sing. He also plays guitar and drums. With a diverse professional music background, he has played keyboard and/or bass for Gospel acts, such as the Dixie Echoes, as well as Country acts, Donna Fargo, Earl Thomas Conley, Lee Greenwood and T. Graham Brown. . He originally joined The Oaks Band in the summer of 2001 which led Jimmy to being the newest addition to Pierce Arrow in 2013.
Page 7 The Ozarks Christian Voice is available by subscription, online and at all
Family Pharmacies, Christian Bookstores, Price Cutters, Harter House, Country Marts, many theaters, businesses and most post offices!
As seeing and knowing, God is one. As being seen and known, God is three.
Going on a Mission at Home MBCH Children and Family Ministries (an affiliate of Missouri Baptist Children’s Home) is seeking Christians willing to serve God by supplying foster care for teens. The Therapeutic Foster Care ministry provides a daily rate of pay that allows one foster parent to remain at home and care for the child. Training and licensing is provided for the foster parents at no cost. You can make a difference in the life of a hurting child by “Going on Mission at Home”. For more information about becoming a licensed foster parent, call
(417) 831-2342 or visit:
www.mbch.org
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www.OzarksChristianVoice.com of volatile situations.
To Protect and Serve or Predatory Revenue Agents? by a concerned citizen
That might be but the vast majority of police interactions are not some TV version of COPS.
A life long observation of the American police force, sheriffs and state troopers have led me to believe that there are two types of individuals who seek this career. There are those who genuinely want to make a difference in the world to provide justice and order with respect and courtesy to the average citizen and the other type that were either bullied on the playground during their youth or bullies themselves that needed to seek a license to continue their aggression on others.
The real question is why are they not trained to communicate with citizens with courtesy and respect until the subject gives them reason not to? I personally had an encounter with a Branson police officer a few years ago when he approached my wife and I with very inappropriate questions in a city park that we were enjoying during regular visiting hours. He was aggressive and menacing immediately with inferences that we were somehow involved in drug deals or perhaps we were there for an intimate liaison.
I have had various traffic violations and bad neighbor encounters that resulted in police interventions over the years and in all of my encounters found the first type of officers woefully in great minority.
His disrespect for us was appalling. Another incident involved a barking dog complaint I had made and two Branson officers that I had foolishly invited into my home accused me of unlawfully yelling at the neighbor’s dog to be quiet. Evidently I disturbed the peace but the
It amazes me that the general attitude of the “peace keeper” is to be edgy, disrespectful and aggressive. Their defense? Kindness is a weakness that perpetrators will take advantage of in keeping control
dog was well within his right to bark incessantly throughout the night. I adamantly told the officers they couldn’t be serious and in front of my family they asked me if I would rather be arrested and brought in to the police station! Ironically, all police demand respect but are oblivious to the notion they might have to earn it. It is so hard to instill in your children to respect law enforcement when they display such callous behavior when dealing with the public. Most recently I was given a $85.00 fine for having my tags two weeks expired on my license plates. The tags were only $45.00. What pin heads in Jefferson City don’t realize how over reaching and excessive that is for a non moving violation? A speeding ticket for 15 mph over the limit is “only” $72.00. Something wrong with this picture? I am startled at how many people have been ticketed for minor offenses without any warnings recently. In a desperate cash strapped state government it seems they have found an easy way to impose yet another form of tax on the masses. There are some families that are being egregiously fined and are un-
September 2013 able to pay such penalties. How is it that someone who earns $18,000 a year (below poverty line and totally dependent on auto transportation) fined the same amount as an $80,000 wage earner? How equitable is that? The fines are certainly not a proportioned response to the transgression. Larger wage owners are merely inconvenienced but low wage earners are devastated. This begs the question, are they working for the tax payers who pay their salary to protect and to serve or are they just really predatory revenue agents for the state? Police officers take notice: You will never garner respect in the community when your first contact with a citizen is to act like Barney Fife. If the citizens of any given state do not hold these public servants to civility we will slowly fade into a police state. I have travelled to many countries and I assure you the abuses there would not be tolerated here in America... or would they? As Christians we must continue to speak against all forms of injustice and be a voice for the poor and the disenfranchised.
3000 Green Mountain Dr. (Yellow Route) Branson, MO 65616
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CherryBerry Branson Spirit-filled Davidic style Praise and Worship Annoited Bible-based teaching Fellowship after each service Nursery & Children’s Shabbat School
Meeting at Branson Hills Ministry Center 256 Church Road, Branson, MO 65616 417.334.7373, www.TheTabernacleinBranson.com Discover the Hebrew roots of your Christian faith!
Join us for weekly services: Erev Shabbat (Friday) 7:30 pm Shabbat (Saturday) 11 am • 417-334-7373
September 2013
OCV Mission Statement: The Ozarks Christian Voice is published under the direction of the Ozarks Christian Foundation, a 501(c)3 non profit agency. Its primary purpose is to edify the body of Christ through inspirational articles of Christian faith and courage, educate the body of Christ through informative articles promoting the cultivation of a Christian world view, and encourage the body of Christ to support one another. Our focus is on, and to, the invisible church which Jesus Christ said, “The gates of hell would not prevail against.” We announce the current events of the visible church, and we believe the Body of Christ is made up of people who have found salvation by faith in Jesus Christ evidenced by the good works they are doing and have done.
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com We encourage our readers to be open minded to differing opinions on non-essential matters. We report the good as well as the bad within our church family as a testament for the necessity of a Savior. Our observations are made from a fairly moderate to conservative viewpoint.
We strive not to be the fire alarm, but the fire extinguisher Often the people most concerned about others going to hell when they die seem less concerned with the hells on earth right now, while the people most concerned with the hells on earth right now seem the least concerned about hell after death. ~Rob Bell
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www.OzarksChristianVoice.com P i e rc e A r row ’s Jarrett D ou ghe r t y
Jarrett’s always loved to laugh and to make people laugh. Of course, he was the class clown in school. At the age of 23, he was the drummer for one of the best southern gospel groups in the country, Jeff and Sheri Easter, and then later he joined the McGruders. In 1995 Jarrett moved to Branson, which is only an hour from his hometown, Ava, Missouri. For six years, he played the drums and did comedy for Barbara Fairchild. Just before joining the Pierce Arrow Theater, he was with Sons of the Pioneers. “Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, Dan Britton, Pierce Arrow’s owner and pro-
‘DUCK DYNASTY’ BROTHER REVEALS WHY HE WAS KICKED OUT OF A NEW YORK CITY HOTEL by Jonathon M. Seidl - The Blaze The crew of A&E’s hit show “Duck Dynasty” has been on a media tour in New York City this week ahead of the Wednesday-night premiere of their show. And while it’s hard to believe that some across the country can’t pick out the bearded brothers of the Robertson clan from a mile away, Jase Robertson revealed that he was kicked out of a hotel in the city this week after being confused for a
ducer, asked if I would like to join the family as the new comedian. It was an amazing opportunity to be welcomed into Branson’s hottest show. I love life and enjoy livin’ every day here with my boy Dillon. Branson stands for patriotism and wholesomeness, the American way. What a great country we live in. I thank my lucky stars everyday that I get to come to work and entertain such wonderful fans. I believe laughter is the best medicine a person can have. So even if you are sick, come to Branson and see the Pierce Arrow Show, and me. I promise, you’ll either get well or ‘Die Laughin’!”
cial profiling deal,” Jase joked while describing the incident on “Live with Kelly and Michael.” “I asked where the bathroom was and he said, ‘Right this way, sir.’ He was very nice,” Jase told a disbelieving Michael Strahan. “He walked me outside, pointed Si Robertson and Jase Robertson of Duck down the road, and Dynasty speak onstage during the 2013 CMA said, ‘Good luck. Have Music Festival on June 8, 2013 at LP Field in a good day.’” Nashville, Tennessee. Credit: Getty Images “He just didn’t know,” homeless man. Jase said graciously, indicating they still stayed at the hotel. Jase Robertson of Duck Dynasty describes getting kicked out of a New “Duck Dynasty” airs Wednesday York City hotel, “I think it was a fanights on A&E.
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September 2013
IMPORTANT MESSAGE Be advised that the contents of this publication often do not represent the positions held by many of the sponsors of the Ozarks Christian Voice (or for that matter, the publishers) Please remember to favor the advertisers here in the OCV. It would not exist without them!
Did you know the Ozarks Christian Voice has subscribers in 13 different states? That is just the printed edition. The online edition covers the entire country. (according to the unique IDs as seen on Constant Contact)
September 2013
From the editor: WASP ALERT! The following article will propably offend or gross out the average WASP (White Anglo Saxon Protestant). Just like our theological biases we cannot fathom anything beneficial outside of the cultural and religious norm.
What's In a Kiss? More Than You Realize… By Dr. Mercola In the average lifetime, most people spend 20,160 minutes kissing. A passionate kiss can burn up to five calories per minute. The longest kiss, recorded in Thailand in February 2013 by Guinness World records, lasted 58 hours, 35 minutes and 58 seconds. But these philamatology1 factoids2 don’t really explain why people kiss. Kissing not only feels good, it’s good for you. It relieves stress and releases epinephrine into your blood, making it pump faster, which signals a reduction of LDL cholesterol. But while “swapping spit” in today’s culture most often denotes sexual attraction, there’s more to it than that: “'Mucous membranes inside the mouth are permeable to hormones such as testosterone. Through open-mouth kissing, men introduced testosterone into a woman’s mouth' which 'is absorbed through the mucous membranes… and increases arousal and the likelihood that she will engage in reproductive behavior.3” But because some cultures don’t include kissing in their mating rituals, it’s possible the first kiss was given by a mother to her child rather than being shared between a couple.
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com Psychologists conjecture that kiss-feeding – exchanging pre-masticated food from one mouth to another was how babies received the nutrients needed to grow up strong and healthy (as they’re not always available from breast milk). This jump starts the digestion process and makes vitamins like B-12 more easily absorbable. Actress Alicia Silverstone’s blog recently included a video of herself kiss-feeding her four year old child, nicknamed Bear, offering a clue to the meaning of mouthto-mouth contact from a child’s perspective: “I just had a delicious breakfast of miso soup, collards and radish steamed and drizzled with flax oil, cast iron mochi with nori wrapped outside, and some grated daikon. Yum! I fed Bear the mochi and a tiny bit of veggies from the soup from my mouth to his. It's his favorite... and mine. He literally crawls across the room to attack my mouth if I'm eating." How Cuddling, Breastfeeding and Natural Weaning Relates to Babies’ Emotional Health
According to Dr. Kevin Boyd, whose anthropological studies led him to ascertain that children’s dental health depends very much on this transition, as well as an absence of carbohydrates and sugar in their diets. Interestingly, babies up to four months old can only focus on objects eight to ten inches from their faces – about the same distance between infants and their mother’s face when breastfeeding5 – suggesting that facial recognition is the beginning of emotional, not just physical, attachment. The phenomenon of pareidolia – seeing faces in flowers and cloud formations – may reinforce the possibility that the search for emotional attachment may be one of mankind’s most elemental instincts.
There’s a school of thought that contends that the cuddling, visual attachment and emotional bonding that takes place between mother and child during breastfeeding and/or kiss-feeding helps the child establish healthy attitudes toward food later in life. Subsequent baby-led weaning (BLW), which includes premasticating regular whole foods in lieu of serving processed baby foods and spoon feeding, is said to:
Scientific Animal Testing Shows How Baby Monkeys Attach to Another 'Mother'
Enhance mealtime enjoyment Help reduce the child’s obesity risk Promote natural jaw development Improve eye-hand coordination and dexterity But it’s also said to help children develop confidence and security in their future relationships. Of course, what you feed your baby after breastfeeding also is crucial. Merging from breastfeeding on demand to gradually introducing regular foods is what humans have adapted to do.
One was an immovable doll made of soft cloth, while the second, mechanical “mother” was made of cold, unyielding wire which nonetheless provided food. The young monkeys were then confronted with a scary, threatening contraption. But rather than running to the mechanical food source, they invariably scampered to the soft, cuddly doll mothers, showing that comfort was more important to them than food.
In the 1950s, Dr. Harry Harlow conducted experiments on attachment at the University of Wisconsin which today would undoubtedly be considered cruel. Harlow separated young monkeys from their mothers soon after birth and placed them in cages with two “fake” mothers.
Harlow also created a rejecting “mother”
Page 11 that used a blast of pressurized air to push the baby monkeys away. But they clung even tighter to these mother figures. The scientists observed that the “rejection” actually strengthened the baby monkeys’ determination to hang on, and essentially, attach. In the 1960s, similar experiments conducted by Dr. Eckhard Hess6 at the University of Chicago involved electric shocks to keep ducklings from attaching to figures they imprinted on. But this only strengthened the ducklings’ behavior and made them follow even closer. Experiments by A.E. Fisher on puppies in 1955 divided them into three groups. The first was treated kindly, while the second group was treated harshly and punished whenever they approached the researchers. The third group experienced random kindness mixed with punishment, so they never knew what to expect. But the third group of puppies formed the strongest attachment to the researchers. Guy Murchie7 dubbed this the polarity principal, which says the stress of uncertainty is one of the strongest factors affecting attachment, love and dependence.
SPRINGFIELD RADIO STATION RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD KWFC 89.1 FM of Springfield, MO was announced as winner of the National Quartet Convention Music Awards 2013 "Radio Station of the Year." "KWFC is a most deserving recipient of our Radio Station of the Year Award. They are a powerful and positive face for Southern Gospel Music, and represent a spirit of excellence in their field." said Clarke Beasley, Executive Vice President of the National Quartet Convention.
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Stained Glass Theatre: “Serving Christ Through the Arts”
September 2013
Now Showing: Family Outings by: Paul McCusker Performing September 19 through October 19, 2013 Vacation. A time to escape the busyness of everyday life and spend time together. Jim Bailey is convinced that buying a cabin in the woods is the ticket to solving his family’s problems. As they spend three different weeks together, they learn more about each other than they bargained for during their Family Outings.
www.sgtheatre.com "The police shoved me into a chair and wouldn't let me even make a phone call by NICOLE LANGE - The Blaze at first. It was chaotic as they told me they had an order to take the children. At Dirk Wunderlich appears with his four my slightest movement the agents children, who were forcibly removed would grab me as if I were a terrorist. from the home Thursday because he and You would never expect anything like his wife choose to this to home-school. (HSLDA) happen At 8 a.m. on Thursday , in our in what has been called calm, a "brutal and vicious peaceful act," a team of 20 social village. It workers, police officers was like and special agents a scene stormed a home-schoolout of a ing family's residence science Wunderlich family near Darmstadt, Gerfiction many, forcibly removing all four of the movie. Our neighbors and children have family's children (ages 7-14). The sole been traumatized by this invasion." grounds for removal were that the parents, Dirk and Petra Wunderlich, contin- Wunderlich said that his 14-year-old ued to home-school their children in daughter, Machsejah, had to be forcibly defiance of a German ban on home ed- taken out of the home. ucation. Family Attornry, Andreus Vogt told Home School Legal Defense AssociaAs the family quietly began their home- tion that the authorities had displayed school day, they were interrupted by a little sympathy. ring at the door. Dirk Wunderlich described the frightening turn of events. HSLDA Chairman Michael Farris said Germany has continued to show its dis"I looked through a window and saw regard for the human right to homemany people, police, and special agents, school. all armed," he said. "They told me they wanted to come in to speak with me. I "Germany has grossly violated the rights tried to ask questions, but within sec- of this family," he said. "This latest act onds, three police officers brought a bat- of seizing these four beautiful, innocent tering ram and were about to break the
children is an outrageous act of a rogue nation."
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Following the raid, Dirk Wunderlich told Mike Donnelly, HSLDA director for International Affairs, that he and his wife were devastated. "These are broken people," Donnelly said. "They said they felt like they were being ground into dust. They were shaken to their core and shocked by the event. But they also told me that they had followed their conscience and the dictates of their faith. Although they don't have much faith in the German state, they have a lot of faith in God. They are an inspiring and courageous family. "I've been fighting for German homeschool freedom for years," he continued, "and I had hoped that things were changing in Germany since it has been some time since brutality of this magnitude has occurred. But I was wrong." Petra Wunderlich said her heart was shattered. "We are empty," she said. "We need help. We are fighting but we need help." HSLDA has today begun a nationwide campaign to urge American homeschoolers to call the German embassy and its consular offices in the United States to protest this blatant violation of Germany's human rights commitments.
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September 2013
Miley Cyrus’ Soft-Porn Twerking Offends Even Sinners by Jennifer LeClaire When sinners cry foul, you know you’ve crossed the line. Miley Cyrus took raunchy to a whole new level at the MTV Video Music Awards Sunday—and the talk of her stripping down to flesh-colored rubber underwear, ultra-obscene twerking and other erotic moves on stage with Robin Thicke isn’t dying down. Miley’s perverted performance made Beyonce’s controversial Super Bowl dance look tame and Janet Jackson’s wardrobe malfunction appear rather innocent. Billy Ray Cyrus, the country music star and father of the misguided youth, was probably sick to his stomach watching his baby girl simulate masturbation in front of the masses. Billy Ray was scheduled to do an interview with Piers Morgan to discuss the incident but bailed out, probably still speechless and sipping on Pepto-Bismol. Noteworthy is the fact that even the liberal media and fellow celebrities are shocked by the Hannah Montana star’s performance. "That young lady, who is 20, is obviously deeply troubled, deeply disturbed. Probably has confidence issues, probably an eating disorder. And I don't think anybody should have put her up on stage. That was disgusting,” says Mika Brzezinksi, co-anchor of Morning Joe on MSNBC. Brooke Shields, who played Cyrus’ mother on Hannah Montana, called the performance “desperate” on NBC’s Today show: “I don’t approve. Where did I go wrong? I want to know who’s advising her and why it’s necessary. It’s a bit desperate.” Kelly Osbourne, a close friend of Cyrus’ and co-host of E!’s Fashion Police VMAs recap had this to say: "Look, Miley’s my friend and I love her, and I have her back no matter what, but as her friend, I'm
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com going to tell her—put your *%#@ tongue in your mouth! I love you, but just put your tongue in your mouth.” About the only one who isn’t dazed and confused is gay American Idol favorite Adam Lambert. He tweeted: “And listen if it wasn't ur cup of tea—all good but why is everyone spazzing? Hey—she's doin something right. We all talkin.” Yeah, we’re all talking. There’s an old mantra in the PR world that says no publicity is bad publicity. If publicity was MTV’s goal with the R-rated performance, the broadcaster can claim success. This is not new behavior for MTV. Madonna and Britney Spears’ liplock in 2003 was so shocking that it sent MTV's brand awareness through the roof. Apparently, that ratings boost opened Pandora’s Box. Just look how far we’ve come in a decade! Simulated sex on a program rated appropriate for kids as young as 14 peppered with commercials for condoms and ads for an R-rated movie. Dan Isett, director of public policy at the Parents Television Council (PTC), may have said it best: “MTV has once again succeeded in marketing sexually charged messages to young children using former child stars and condom commercials—while falsely rating this program as appropriate for kids as young as 14. This is unacceptable. “MTV continues to sexually exploit young women by promoting acts that incorporate ‘twerking’ in a nude-colored bikini. How is this image of former child star Miley Cyrus appropriate for 14-yearolds?” Even sinners don’t want their 14-yearold daughters (or sons, for that matter) watching a former child star gyrate, bump and grind against an older man—or any man. But could God work this for good? (See Romans 8:28.) I believe now is a strategic time to battle the prince of the power of the air (Eph. 2:2). Think about it for a minute. Even sinners were shocked by this immoral performance and the
mood could swing toward stronger policing of the airwaves to protect innocent eyes from seeing the likes of Hannah Montana getting dirty in the name of entertainment. No one can legitimately argue with the PTC’s Isset when he says, “This much is absolutely clear: MTV marketed adultsonly material to children while falsely manipulating the content rating to make parents think the content was safe for their children … This content would likely not be given a forum if it were on a broadcast network. Yet MTV continues to push limits because it’s a cable network. But that does not mean MTV’s decisions have no consequences, especially for the millions of children who were targeted by MTV.” Isset is urging Congress to pass the Television Consumer Freedom Act, which will give parents and consumers a real solution for future MTV VMA programs— the ability to choose and pay for cable networks that they want versus having to pay for networks they don’t want. After MTV’s display last night, he says, it’s time to give control back to consumers. I agree. “The Miley Cyrus/Robin Thicke performance simply substituted talent with sex. Viacom has a set of corporate broadcast standards that were obviously broken in this case for financial gain,” says PTC Advisory Board Member and former BET Executive Paul Porter said. “While the performance was shocking to the audience, MTV approved it during the show run prior to the broadcast. Heads should roll at MTV.” Heads probably won’t roll at MTV, but intercession should rise to the throne. The devil always overplays his hand. MTV and other broadcasters have crossed the line one too many times. We need to battle this in prayer. We need to pray for Miley and others like her. We need to come against the spirit of Jezebel. We need to repent for allowing the enemy to take it this far on our watch. And we need to join forces with groups like PTC that have lobbyists on Capitol Hill. We need to stand up and speak out against the immorality in this land or a future VMA could show the next fallen child star allbut fornicating on stage for all our kids to see. Then again, I guess that’s already happened.
Page 13 ONE MOTHER’S RESPONSE Dear Daughter, Yes, this is what happens when you constantly hear everything you do is awesome. This is what happens when people fawn over your every Tweet and Instagram photo. This is what happens when no responsible adult has ever said the word “no,” made you change your clothes before leaving the house, or never spanked your butt for deliberate defiance. If you ever even consider doing something like that, I promise you that I will run up and twerk so you will see how ridiculous twerking looks. I will duct tape your mouth shut so your tongue doesn’t hangout like an overheated hound dog. I will smack any male whom you decide to smash against his pelvis – after I first knock you on your butt for forgetting how a lady acts in public. Why would I do that? Because I love you and I want you to respect yourself. Miley Cyrus is not edgy or cool or sexy. She’s a desperate girl screaming for attention: Notice me. Tell me I’m pretty. See how hot I am. I know all the guys want me. All the girls want to be me. You probably know girls who will emulate this behavior at the next school dance. Don’t do it with them. You are far too valuable to sell yourself so cheaply. Walk away. Let the boys gawk and know in your heart that they see only a body that can be used for their pleasure and then forgotten. The mother also apologized to her daughter if she has ever “felt sad because I haven’t gushed over everything you’ve done.” The job of a mother, she writes, is to “praise when praise is due, but also to offer constructive criticism and correction when it is needed as well.” “Dear daughter, I am going to fight or die trying to keep you from becoming like the Miley Cyruses of the world,” she concludes. “You can thank me later.”
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September 2013
Raising Awareness for Charities P.O. Box 336 Rockaway Beach, MO 65740
(417) 336-3636 Christ has no body now on earth but yours... If you can’t be thankful for yours are the hands with which He is to bless us now. what you receive, be Please give generously of your time and finances to thankful for what you escape. these ministries. ADOPTION MBCH Children & Family Min. Adoption & Foster Care Services 1837 E. Cherry St. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 831-2342 ASSISTANCE Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC) is a movement of Christian churches working together to show God’s love to the poor and needy. 7347 W. Hwy. 76 Branson, MO 65616 Phone: (417)-336-7056 Toll Free: 866-568-3462 Emails: Anita Pugh, Executive Director: apugh@omcloveinc.com Jenifer Maupin, Office Administrator,
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DISASTER ASSISTANCE Convoy of Hope Assisting those in need 330 S. Patterson Ave. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 823-8998
Ozarks Regional YMCA Julie Eaton, Director of Marketing 417 S. Jefferson, Springfield, MO 65806 jeaton@orymca.org, 417-862-8962 ext. 2117
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Food assistance program 610 South Sixth Street, Ste 102 Branson, MO 65616 (417) 334-1157 Smart Choice Foods Discount food program To find a local host: www.smartchoicefood.com National Office (866) 643-0877
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Tuesday night meetings held at Grace Community Assembly 440 State Hwy 248 Branson, MO 417-336-2422 HEALTH YMCA
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Pie rc e Ar row’s Sc ott Fr ake r Scott, performed with the Missouri State University Touring Choir and later toured with the accapella group The Wing Tips, which made numerous national television appearances including: The Today Show, Good Morning America, and the CBS Morning program. Scott also performed with Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Frankie Avalon, and even got to sing for former President George Bush. Scott is a licensed minister out of Park Crest Baptist Church in Springfield, MO and continues to preach and speak across the US. Scott is a father of four and is married to his high school sweetheart Marcy.
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September 2013
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Why Oregon Bakers Should Have Sold Wedding Cake to Gay Couple
People came online and in-person in front of the store to voice their support or outrage at the situation.
by Os Hillman
From where I sit, it seems pretty clear to me that the couple should have provided service to the gay couple. They are not operating a church that has specific guidelines about the gay lifestyle that would violate Scripture and their conscience. Yes, they are Christians trying to honor God in their business. But there is a distinction here.
Os Hillman says Sweet Cakes by Melissa should have made a wedding cake for a lesbian couple. There does not seem to be a week that goes by that we do not hear of a gay versus Christian issue arising in our nation. The most recent was with a bakery in Oregon. The bakery angered a same-sex lesbian couple by refusing to bake the wedding cake for their upcoming marriage. The result was that Sweet Cakes by Melissa closed its storefront business on Saturday. The shop's closing came on the heels of news that the lesbian couple the store rejected had filed a complaint with the state, alleging that Sweet Cakes by Melissa discriminated against them based on their sexual orientation. In response to the complaint, the bakery's co-owner Melissa Klein argued that turning away the couple was "definitely not discrimination at all. We don't have anything against lesbians or homosexuals," she said in August. "It has to do with our morals and beliefs. It's so frustrating because we went through all of this in January, when it all came out." Klein's remarks echoed sentiments her husband, Aaron, shared with NBC earlier this year. "I think [the state labor commissioner] is going to have to decide what's more important: the Oregon state Constitution, or the statute that was passed in 2007," he said at the time. "They dropped the ball by not putting in any exemption for religious beliefs."
Why Christians Have Difficulty Navigating This Space
If you are operating a public business, discriminating against a group of people by refusing to sell a product to them for whatever reason seems to simply feed the gay movement with more ammunition to accuse Christians of bigotry. Chick-fil-A would never think of not selling their chicken to a gay person. That does not mean they cannot hold a personal or corporate view about a social issue. That is freedom of speech. If this gay couple walked into Jesus’ carpentry shop to buy a table, I cannot imagine He would not sell them a table. I believe He would view that couple with compassion, realizing that something is amiss in their need for love and intimacy that led them to make such a choice. He would build a bridge into their lives, much like He did with the Samaritan woman, in order to demonstrate God’s love to them in hopes they might open their hearts to another way. However, He would leave that choice to them as He does with all of us. Condoning a Lifestyle or Loving a Person Unconditionally? Many Christians have a difficult time loving those in the gay community because they think that if they do, they are condoning the homosexual lifestyle. Jesus said He came to save those who needed healing, deliverance and salva-
tion, not those who were healthy (Mark 2:17). Jesus spoke to the adulteress woman in the public arena. He told the accusers, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first” (John 8:7). They all walked away. Jesus told the woman, “Go and sin no more” (v. 11). He did not shame her for her past behavior; she already knew the condition of her life and the shame she brought upon herself. The next time you are confronted with doing business with a gay person or anyone who represents a lifestyle that you find ungodly, consider how Jesus might relate to the person, and become Jesus to them.
Page 15 After all, you are here to be heaven’s representative on earth. What kind of reflection of heaven are you? Os Hillman is president of Marketplace Leaders and author of Change Agent and TGIF: Today God Is First, a free email daily devotional.
Dear Father, Forgive me when I lose sight of what is really important in life. Help me to keep my eyes focused on your truth. Enable me to show others that you are the real treasure in life.
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Soul Mates Are Made by Lorraine Sacoulas, Publisher OCV Okay, this is actually her husband, John writing. She ran an errand and I hijacked her quill. Here is the truth: I did not know how to do relationships before I met my wife. I have broken relationships in my past that I am only now coming to terms with.
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com have better prospects out there. Your spouse is God’s match for you. Love them into thinking you are the most exciting, grace filled, understanding, patient spouse on the planet. God is still more interested in you becoming more like His Son than He is us having trouble free marriages. These difficulties actually grow if we let them. Don’t get me wrong, I believe in “soul mate” relationships but my wife has taught me well that soul mates are made and not easily. However, the satisfaction of the dreaded word, “communication” is worth every bit of the agony guys face when a gal “wants to talk”. There are triggers from our childhood that once discovered can reveal why you or your spouse reacts in unreasonable ways or has some quirky little habit or sensitivity that drives you crazy.
Marriage is certainly one of the most difficult of all relationships. There are two fallen, selfish, sinful people living in the same house trying to understand why the other one “doesn’t get me”. My wife’s degree in Philosophy and Religion has helped her communicate with me what triggers sensitivities that I did not completely understand myself. There are quite a few years between Lorri and myself and that strangely has been a blessing to us both. I have a certain wisdom but can be jaded; she has a fresh pair of eyes and a healthy idealism of what our relationship potential can be. The biggest thing I have learned in our relationship is that “soul mates” are not magically awaiting the discovery from each party. Not terribly romantic, I know but nevertheless true. Culture and fairy tales have led at least half of all married couple to wonder if they “married the wrong person” creating a huge disappointment when troubles come into a relationship. I can’t stand that Christian Mingle ad that suggests that you can meet “God’s Match For You”. That makes us wonder if we
One thing we are blessed with is the ability to tell each other ANYTHING. Now that is what creates a soul mate. What have you got to lose? If your relationship stinks why not go for transparency? CAUTION: Trust with the deepest, darkest thoughts can be risky so ease into it. Don’t start by telling your spouse about your secret desire to be a ballet dancer guys.
She retorted, “Why can’t you be more like Robert Wagner?” Don’t wait for your mate to make the first move or reciprocate your new effort. That will surely result in an impasse. And gals, if you tend to be a bit too jealous because of youthful hurts in relationships where your heart was broken and you are fearful of fidelity issues... share that. And then of course when it comes to the topic of sex there is a host of disappointments and fears that can be resolved by being vulnerable with each other. It might sting at first like one episode of Everybody Loves Raymond where Debra, his wife, revealed after nine years that she didn’t particularly care for one of his “moves” when they were intimate. Raymond was furious that she didn’t let on all those years when he thought he was being quite the lover. But ultimately isn’t it better to get that out in the open? Nobody really wants to have their lover fake any intimate act. You might want to take the liberty of enjoying a nice glass of Merlot before you start the sharing. (sorry, if you take the conviction of abstinence you might want to consider the benefits of having the edge taken off any unpleasantness. You both might need a “merry heart” during your soul bearing.)
John & Lorri Sacoulas
That kind of bombshell should be reserved when she doesn’t kick you to the curb when you reveal that your miserly view on money might have come from a poverty stricken childhood and you are determined never to be in that position again.
There was an old television show called Heart to Heart that portrayed a couple that was unrealistically without any problems. I overheard a guy ask his wife why she couldn’t be more like Stephanie Powers.
And yes, you really need to pray about having the best sexual relationship through communication and selflessness you can muster. Our heavenly fathered designed it to be a blessing and it’s not supposed to be so difficult.
Lorri has taught me that it is the smallest of all courtesies that I do that make her the most content in our relationship and I have to agree. Guys this cartoon is real. Adamdoesn’t think Eve needs flowers when she is swimming in them but it really isn’t about the flowers. It’s the thought. Sound trite? Doesn’t matter dude. It’s true! Watch this column each month as Lorri tackles some of the “hot buttons” of marriage relationships.
September 2013 P ierce A rrow ’s
D a n B ri t t o n Born on January 12, 1958 in Bloomfield, Indiana, he was raised on a farm, the same one his parents still call home, along with two sisters and three brothers. Itw was a musical family, frequently singing at local events and at church. After high school, Dan and his brothers began touring up north where they became the top draw in many casinos and show rooms.
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September 2013
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com OZARKS HEBREW HERITAGE ASSOCIATION (OHHA) . . . exploring the Hebrew Roots of our Christian Faith brings monthly teachers to the Ozarks.
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Donnie McClurkin Says Religion Is Commercialized, Lacks Power by EFREM GRAHAM/CBN Gospel artist Donnie McClurkin led a massive worship celebration in New York this weekend designed to unite people of all denominations.
"We have gained the commerciality of religion, but we have lost the power and the zeal," McClurkin said. "And we don't fellowship. It is quite often that you will find that pastors really don't fellowship unless they are trying to do something political."
September 20-29 Sukkot/ Feast of Tabernacles (www.ozarkshebrewheritage.com) For more info: 888-265-1837 or ohhatorah@yahoo.com
If the Arabs layed down their arms today, there would be peace in the Middle East. If Israel layed down their arms today, there would be no more Israel.
speech. "I was a very good and personal friend with Corretta Scott King for years," McClurkin said.
-Benjamin Netanyahu and I am going to continue to show you the love, even if you never change because love is not love if it is conditional." McClurkin even had a chance to demonstrate that love.
Still, the mayor's office withdrew its inIn the middle of all the D.C. uproar, a gay man named James approached him for prayer at a New York hotel.
it to reach the masses with the love of Jesus Christ—pure, unconditional, raw." At least 7,000 people attended the New York Call. McClurkin has also seen significant support on social media following the uproar in D.C. And some of that support came from the gay and lesbian community.
"I said, 'You know what I think, James? I think God is in love with James. God loves James, and I think I love James, too.' And he just cried in my arms. Prayed again and I let him go and went upstairs to my room and said, 'God, you are so ironic.'"
The tenth annual New York Call drew thousands to the city. "Jesus made the statement," McClurkin began. "He said the house that is divided against its own self won't be able to stand."
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And this weekend, the pastor shared that same message of God's love to thousands. vitation because of protests from members of the gay community who object to McClurkin's longtime testimony of deliverance from homosexuality.
McClurkin's answer to the protests: love!
This year's conference comes on the heels of some unexpected political controversy for the gospel singer.
"I don't speak evil about the sin at all. I speak the truth, that sin is not of God and it is not right. And God didn't call us to sin," McClurkin said.
Just three weeks ago, the Washington, D.C., mayor's office withdrew its invitation to McClurkin to perform at a concert honoring the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream"
"But as far as the people, no matter who you are, no matter who you love, I am not going to bash you," he said. "I am going to love on you
"The call of ministry is so strong and it is such an honor, I don't want to commercialize it," McClurklin said. "I don't want it to be something that is slick down and made palatable to the people. I want it to be in its raw essence. It's raw form. I want
Welcome to Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare. We strive to meet the needs of our residents through comprehensive and quality long term care services under physician supervision, while attaining their highest practicable physical, mental and psychosocial well-being. Ozark Mountain Healthcare 417.723.5281 OzarkMountainHealthCare.com
H
These local Restuar wish you the grea
NOT ONLY DOES GOD WANT GENT TO CELEBRATE THE FEAST OF TA BELIEVERS TODAY – IT ALSO HAS APPLICATION TOWARD THE FUTU
Zech 14.16 says that after the 2nd com of Armageddon, it shall come to pass nations shall go up year after year to w Lord of Hosts, and keep the Feast of T going to rule and reign the whole earth and each and every year we will all (Je Feast of Tabernacles together in the p thousand years are over, there will be new Jerusalem coming down out of he adorned for her husband, and the “tab forever. (REV. 21:1-3)
Aren’t you glad that we are all the “brid that God ordained not only the Feast o for us to celebrate together – Jew & G
Brisket, Chicken, Buffet & Menu!
ave a great Feast with us!
3551 Shepherd of the Hills in Branson
y ! wl led e N ode m Re
rants and attractions atest Feast Ever!
TILE BELIEVERS IN JESUS ABERNACLES WITH JEWISH GREAT PROPHETIC RE by Rabbi Jeremy Storch
ming of the Messiah and the battle that everyone who is left of all the worship the King ( that’s Yeshua) the Tabernacles. Yeshua (Jesus) is h from Jerusalem for a 1000 years, ew & Gentile alike) celebrate the presence of the King. When the a new heaven and a new earth, a eaven from God, prepared as a bride bernacle” of God will be with us
de of Messiah? And aren’t you glad of Tabernacles, but all of His Feasts Gentile alike. continued on page 24
We welcome the Church of God to the Feast of Tabernacles! Come see our all new show at Pierce Arrow!
BOBBY JACK’S wishes you and yours a happy Feast! 3292 Shepherd of the Hills Expwy between IMAX and Shoji’s (417) 334-7700
SPACE MUSEUM 3027 W. HWY 76, Branson Missouri (417) 334-6699 Hours: Thu-Sun 9 am - 7 pm
Welcome to Branson Church of God Come have a good time for a great feast! see article on page 24
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www.OzarksChristianVoice.com
September 2013
Pie rc e Ar row’s Luke M e nar d
2520 State Hwy. 165 Branson (1 Block South of Welk Resort) (417) 334-4931
1949 West Boat Street Ozark (Behind Lamberts) (417) 581-2343
2 Great Locations To Serve You!
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Agape Life Fellowship A Word of Faith Church (non-denominational) 6185 W. St. Hwy 266 Springfield, MO
(417) 831-2333 Sun. Services 10 am & 6 pm Wed. Bible Study 6:30 pm
Pastor Twila N. Bridges
Guest Editorial by Dee Wampler
Luke Menard was born and raised in Crawfordsville, IN. He started playing the violin at age 5 and that is when Luke’s love of music began. He graduated from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois where he was heavily involved in music. Upon graduation, he formed and toured with the nationally acclaimed acapella group Chapter 6 for 10 years. In 2008, Luke was seen on the Fox hit televison show American Idol as one of the top 8 guys. Upon elimination, he was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. After several rounds of chemo and radiation Luke is now cancer free! In July of 2011 Luke became a singer in Branson’s long successful running show Pierce Arrow where he currently sings tenor in the quartet. Luke and his wife, Lara, have a daughter named Hope and reside in Branson, MO.
Discover Panama with 88.3 The Wind! 9 Days, 15 Meals - Explore the colors and natural beauty of Panama a land between the seas. Ride the historic Panama Canal Railway from the Atlantic to the Pacific and stay at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Travel via dugout canoe to meet the indigenous Emberá people. Explore bustling local markets. Savor Panamanian dishes at an exclusive culinary demonstration. Enjoy a private salsa lesson. Visit the Smithsonian Galeta Marine Laboratory and the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center. Choose a morning Gatun Lake Expedition Cruise or ride the Aerial Tram for canopy level views of the rainforest. Relax at the Intercontinental Playa Bonita beach resort. Complete the Panama experience with a partial transit through the Panama Canal that reveals the ambitious expansion project. Join us for a special travel presentation and learn how you can be a part of this amazing trip! Monday September 23rd at 6:30pm at Pasta Express 3025 W. Republic Road • RSVP To Keith at 8890883 or by email to keith@kwnd.com
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T
he American Civil Liberties Union has abandoned their legal challenge in ti invocations offered before the meetings of the Franklin County Commission, contending that the practice of offering invocations and prayers amounted to an establishment of a church. The goal of the ACLU, in keeping with their anti-Christian legacy, is to quash any prayers offered n the name of Jesus Christ. Franklin County offers prayers on a rotating basis at the start f their meetings to extend to ministers from various denominations. Those in attendance are advised they are under no obligation to participate. In 1983 the U.S. Supreme Court decided Lynch v. Donnelly, which reminds us that our constitution, signed in 1787 “in the year of our Lord” does not require the complete separation of church and state, but quite the opposite affirmatively “mandates commendation, not merely tolerance of all religions, and forbid any hostility towards any”. The court warned us that anything less would be a “callous indifference” never intended by the First Amendment and warned of a hostility that would bring us into war with our “national tradition as embodied in the First Amendment’s guarantee of the free exercise of religion”. In today’s culture war the are strict separationists who wish to scrub out any mention of God from all political and public life and documents. These separationists wish us to abandon our own heritage that is our history, culture and tradition. Our Founding Fathers pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor”. We are one nation under God and “In God We (Should) Trust.” Dee is the author of “The Myth of Separation of Church and State.” and “The Trial of Christ: A 21st Century Lawyer Defends Jesus.” Springfield, MO Attorney Dee Wampler has 50 years trial experience as a Greene County prosecutor and defense attorney.
The Best Steaks in Town! Have your next lunch meeting in our Private Room
September 2013
Did God Put Us Here to Have Fun? by Michael Brown
I
write these words on the eve of the traditional Jewish New Year—a time of introspection, soulsearching and repentance for Jews around the world, a time when even secular Jews seek to make things right with God. At a time like this, it’s especially important to ask the question: Why did God create us and put us here on the earth? According to a young lady named Angel, seen on a recent interview from the Charlotte pride event and self-identified as a straight Christian, “God put us on this earth to be happy, and if being gay makes someone happy, then go for it!”
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com 167,000 hits? In response to Angel’s comment, which she posted on my YouTube channel, I asked, “Can you tell me where in the Bible it says that if something makes you happy, God wants you to do it? Thanks!” She replied with a verse from Ecclesiastes: “To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness” (Eccl. 2:26). I responded, “Yes, Angel, TO THE MAN WHO PLEASES GOD He gives happiness, which is the opposite of the point you were making. We please God when we believe in Him and live holy lives— not when we please our flesh. Do you agree?”
decades ago, “The idea that this world is a playground instead of a battleground has now been accepted in practice by the vast majority of fundamentalist Christians.” Even more unfortunately, the vast majority of fundamentalist Muslims do believe the world is a battleground instead of a playground, and that’s why they are willing to do anything for the cause of Allah—even things that are demonic and destructive—since they believe they are here to do Allah’s will rather than him being here to keep them happy and entertained. Is that one reason why Islam is spreading like wildfire in countries where Christians have abandoned the gospel? Could it be that many Muslims are more devoted to a false god and a false religion than many Christians are devoted to the true God and the true religion? Could it be that these Muslims are asking Allah, “What can I do for you?” while the Christians are asking the Lord, “What can You do for me?”
Page 21 “You were bought at a price”—which means that we are God’s purchased possession, His bondservants as well as His beloved sons and daughters. We are here to do His will. But this is what the gospel of narcissism and the austere message of radical Islam totally miss: When you encounter Jesus in His glory and beauty, when the burden of your sin falls off your back like a 1,000-pound weight, when His joy and love flood your heart, then you discover the real meaning of life, then you find out why God put you on this earth, and then it becomes the consuming passion of your life to walk with Him, to become like Him, to know Him and to make Him known. Then you are truly alive. Then you discover your true destiny.
In other words, God put us here to know Him and serve Him and live for Him, and when we do, the result is boundless joy and That is the logic of narcissism, the logic true fulfillment, even in the It is only then—in the light of the reality of what has been called “Generation Me” of who He is—that “the things of the midst of suffering and difficulty or the “Me First” generation: “God put us Put another way, a true servant of the world grow strangely dim” (or, as on this earth to be happy, and if (fill in the and pain. blank) makes someone happy, then go for it!” That is also the mentality of today’s carnal gospel message—a message that proclaims Jesus died for you so you could have a better life in this world. In other words, He died for you to make you happy and so you could have fun. So if something doesn’t make you happy, then it’s not from the Lord, but if it makes you happy—if it makes you feel good about yourself and makes you into a bigger and better you—then it is from the Lord. (If you’re saying to yourself, “It sounds like some people want to bypass the cross,” you’re exactly right.) That, in a nutshell, is the gospel of narcissism, and that is what fuels the false theology embraced by so many young people today (which is one reason my heart really goes out to them; they are like sheep without a shepherd). Is it any surprise that a Google search for the phrase “God put us here to be happy” yielded
In sharp contrast to the gospel of narcissism is this radical statement from the late Islamic leader Ayatollah Khomeini, a statement which is extreme even for Islam: “Allah did not create man so that he could have fun. The aim of creation was for mankind to be put to the test through hardship and prayer. An Islamic regime must be serious in every field. There are no jokes in Islam. There is no humor in Islam. There is no fun in Islam. There can be no fun and joy in whatever is serious.” Yet as extreme and austere as this comment is, it contains a fundamental truth (thinking now in terms of the God of the Bible as opposed to Allah): God did not put us here to have fun but to serve Him and to grow in faith and character, thereby becoming more and more like Jesus. In the world to come, there will be no trials of our faith, no devil to resist, no flesh to crucify, no sinful world to overcome. Unfortunately, as A.W. Tozer observed
Lord asks, “How will this benefit Your work, Father?” whereas a carnal servant asks, “How will this benefit me?”
Leonard Ravenhill used to say, “grow strangely grim”) “in the light of His glory and grace.”
Without apology, Paul wrote to Timothy and urged him to “endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Messiah Jesus” (2 Tim 2:3), and he explained to the Corinthians that since Jesus died for all of us, then “those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (2 Cor. 5:15).
And it is only then, serving Him and loving Him and pleasing Him, that we discover the life that is truly abundant, the very life of the abundant God, shared with us, His children.
That really says it all: We no longer live for ourselves; instead, we live for Him who died for us and was raised again. As expressed elsewhere to the Corinthians, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body” (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Did you feel the force of those words? “You are not your own”—which is the death blow to the gospel of narcissism.
As Jesus said to the Father, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent” (John 17:3). Don’t sell your soul for carnal pleasures, and don’t be deceived by the joyless message of dead religion. Know the Lord! Everything else will fall into place. Michael Brown is author of The Real Kosher Jesus and host of the nationally syndicated talk radio show The Line of Fire on the Salem Radio Network. He is also president of FIRE School of Ministry and director of the Coalition of Conscience. Follow him at AskDrBrown on Facebook or @drmichaellbrown on Twitter.
Page 22 A Letter of Love to a Birthmother My name is Jodelle and my husband and best friend of 12 years recently have embarked on the exciting adventure of newborn adoption. The following is our letter to the birthmother out there, whomever she may be, that she may know we are couple who would like to walk alongside her and give the baby growing within her, the very best life possible. Please read and share with anyone and everyone who may be interested in reading our letter of love and hearing our story. Dear Birthmother, We understand what a loving act and sacrifice it is for you to create an adoption plan for your child and would be honored to be a part of your plan. Thank you for taking a moment to read this. My name is Jodelle and my husband of 12 fun years is Benjie, and we are excited for the next chapter in our life - newborn adoption. Ben and I met 15 years ago on the lake where we live, and since our first date, we can truly say we are soul mates and best friends wrapped in one silly, loving package. My husband has helped me weather life’s storms of losing my parents, watching my brother deal with drug addiction, and just recently learning of my infertility and inability to have children; and through it all, he is been my rock that I have clung to and for that I am forever in love with him. My unfortunate diagnosis of infertility after 3 years of trying to conceive was certainly a hard pill to swallow, but it also has become a beautiful life lesson to show me how to begin the healing process of my body, and has led my husband and I to the decision that has always been in the back of our hearts and minds anyway, which is to adopt a newborn baby. Adoption was always something we spoke of even before we were actively trying to conceive. This gift and loving act of service of allowing us the privilege of being a part of your baby’s life is one we will be forever grateful for. I am also a trained Doula and would love the opportunity to help you, the birthmother, through the labor and delivery. As a doula, my job is to soothe the mother, apply gentle massage to relax you, help you through diffi-
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com cult and painful transitions during labor, and essentially be your “lady in waiting” assisting you anyway I can to make the labor as comfortable and nurturing as possible. I am happy to lovingly assist you and honored if you will allow me to do so. My plan for being a mother is to give my child unconditional love, help them grow in wisdom, and develop strong self-confi-
Jodelle & Benjie dence, without minimizing the importance of play and having fun. I will be the mother getting on the floor meeting my child’s gaze and matching their smile. I will be the mother soothing my sickly toddler with hugs, kisses, and cuddles. I will be the mother paddling out on the lake with my little one sitting in front of me exploring all of nature with me. I will be the parent of teen who listens rather than lectures, and loves with arms wide open ready to protect when needed. I’ll admit when I am wrong to my child. I will be trustworthy. I will let them explore life, make mistakes, but use loving listening skills and wisdom to guide them back into balance, all the while appreciating them as a person and a beautiful human being rather than a human “doing.” My husband and I both plan to teach our child to enjoy the simple things in life, and find beauty in every moment. We want to raise a child who respects others with loving kindness that they themselves are fully aware that they deserve as well. My husband and I both plan to help them understand their role in the community and to help them to grow into someone who makes time to care for themselves so that they are fully alive to meet the needs
of others in the community and those around them who need them. I love to volunteer with Jesus Was Homeless, a local homeless outreach organization and look forward to the opportunity to teach my child the gift of helping others. I lost my parents at 17 due to unhealthy lifestyle practices that they led, and I plan to take care of myself and give my child the gift of health as I teach them how to nourish their bodies and nourish their souls with loving acts of kindness and taking time to rest. There is a quote I enjoy thinking about when it comes to Motherhood, “Great teachers take no credit for their students’ growth, yet they will go to any length to teach them what they need to know...Mother is the reflective principle, the balancing agent for the child...she allows the child to make mistakes and loves the child without condition. She intervenes only when the right use of power is required.”
September 2013 on it, and peanut butter. My husband Benjie, who is 34, is a self-employed business owner of an archery business and is a definite lover of nature as well and an outdoorsmen. He loves naps, basketball games, and chocolate chip cookie dough. We have a big, beautiful and wonderful family that lives close by who we love to spend out time with. We are grateful for your time in considering us. If you would like to explore this relationship further, we would be thrilled with the opportunity of meeting you. We wish you well and hope that you find peace and confidence in the choice that you make for your child. “...live a life of love... Eph 5:2”, -Jodelle & Ben "...live a life of love..." Eph. 5:2, Jodelle Fitzwater, CPT, RYT-200, CNC, FPC, CPI, BIC SUP Midwest Ambassador "I must be a mermaid. I have no fear of
This is the kind of mother I aim to be. depths, and a great fear of shallow living." To tell you a little more about Ben and - Jodelle I....I, Jodelle, am a 33 year old Certified Like Get Fit with Jodelle on Facebook Personal Trainer, Certified Nutrition www.facebook.com/getfitwithjodelle Coach, Certified Food Psychology Coach, Stand Up Paddleboard instructor, a 200 hour registered EB ACC T yoga instructor, EPTE D a trained Doula, and a self-proclaimed mermaid (because I have no fear of depth, but a great fear of shallow liv2722 St. Hwy 248 • Branson, MO 65616 ing:). I love to Across from Branson Events Center cook and prepare healthy (417) 544-0206 • food. I love to 248takeandbake@gmail.com meditate each day. I love being Open Mon - Sat 11 AM - 9 PM in nature, hikSunday Closed ing, running, stand up pad- We are Branson's only pure take and bake available. We offer dling, and any- Create your own and Specialty pizzas. Also Wings, Salads, thing that is Cookie dough, Calzones, Coke Products and Iced Tea. You can active and out- bake your pizza right on our special trays so you don't even have side. I also love to dirty a dish and the pizza is hot and ready on your time. Peryoga, anything fect for Superbowl Parties and other gatherings. Our drive with a mermaid through makes it quick and easy to call ahead and swing by!
September 2013
BRANSON FRONTLINE By Veeda Smith O Lord, how manifold are thy works. In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. Psalm 104:24 The Ozarks fall season is my favorite time of the year as the glorious display of colors cover the landscape. The spectacular array of dogwoods, maples, ashes, oaks and hickories are usually at their peak by mid October when the leaves begin to fall covering the landscape in a carpet of stunning colors. It’s a great time to take a walk or drive through the Ozarks to enjoy breathtaking views of God’s magnificent handiworks. Nestled among the beautiful native trees, along a walking trail, just off Highway 76, sits the charming little church named Chapel Woods. For many years, the Lord had given Lynda Lynn a vision of building a chapel near her home, where Lynda and her husband Bud live in Branson West, Missouri. Lynda’s prayer was that the people who walked along the trail would stop by the little chapel, and be touched by God. “Some people may never enter a traditional church, but the Lord told me that He would God-Zap the willing once they walked through the door,” said Lynda. Lynda’s dream came true in June when Chapel Woods was completed and the dedication was held with friends and family in attendance. Eleven pastors were present to pray over Chapel Woods as well as several gospel singers sharing an afternoon of praise and worship. Their dream did not end with the building of Chapel Woods. It was only the beginning of a much bigger plan God had in store for them. With much interest from others desiring to build chapels in different loca-
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com tions, The Lynn’s have been faithful to God’s call and have organized Chapel Trails Across America to build more chapels in Missouri, and across the United States. Recently, more land was donated in Hawaii, and the Lynn’s will be traveling to Hawaii this month to begin building the next chapel. “It’s a little chapel making a big difference,” said Lynda. Bud and Lynda Lynn are ordained ministers. Lynda Lynn is an award winning songwriter, singer, and author. Lynda’s songs have been recorded by numerous gospel artists including The Blackwood Singers and Barbara Fairchild. She has received many awards including sixteen ASCAP awards and Songwriter of the Year for the CGMA. Together Bud and Lynda Lynn were named Country Gospel Music Association (CGMA) International Media Personalities of the Year for three consecutive years. “For more information on C h a p e l Woods, contact the Lynn’s at 417 527-5382 or
Gospel Sing Off Results Gospel Sing Off Is a Success for CAM by Jack Burke, chairman People in Lebanon knew that the gospelsinging quartet Changed was good enough to charter a bus to support them in CAM’s 5th Annual Gospel Sing Off. At the end of the Sing Off, Branson knew how good they were too as they captured first place among the ten finalists competing before an audience of 1,150 at Sight & Sound. As first place winners, Changed also performed 3 thirty-minute shows at Silver Dollar City on Monday.
Changed - first place winners
www.ozarktrails.org Proclaim Ministries, of Branson, Missouri, is hosting a “Prayer Walk” through the city of Branson on October 19, beginning at 10AM. Ministers and Organizers, Russ and Bev Eugenio stated, “Our hearts’ desire is to see the Glory of God rise within the City so that Branson, America’s third most popular vacation destination would shine not only as the Live Entertainment Capitol of America, but as a rallying point for restoration, healing, worship and salvation. We are calling for those who love the city of Branson to walk and pray with us symbolically rebuilding the wall of God’s protection and provision for the city that He established.” For information, on the Prayer Walk contact: Bev Eugenio 417-598-3413.
Farnums - second place winners
Page 23 Jimmy Fortune of The Statler Brothers opened the event with three powerful songs that set a high benchmark with the crowd for the 10 finalists to follow. Other guest appearances included AYO (The Voices of Glory), saxophonist Gary Dooms, and last year’s winners The Gary Dooms Fair Family. Youth minister and ventriloquist Kerry Miller was also on hand with his friend “Ricky” to entertain the crowd in the lobby before the show and during intermission. According to CAM Board Chairman and event producer Jack Burke, “Each year the Sing Off keeps getting better and better. This was our largest crowd to date and some absolutely awesome talent competing before our celebrity judges George Dyer, Jak Knudsen, Joe Sullivan, Ben Dutton, Avery Cole, and Ronnie Page. Plus, Bob Hubbard did another admirable job as our emcee for the event.” Although final tabulations are not completed, AYO Burke anticipates that the amount raised will exceed $25,000. He also commented, “We couldn’t do this without the support of Sight & Sound in donating the use of their theater and their personnel. They’ve been a solid supporter of CAM since they first opened their doors in Branson.” Burke is already looking forward to next year’s event and has received of commitment from Changed to come back for a guest appearance next year. CAM is entirely supported by financial and food donations from the community and is currently serving an average of 1,349 families per month with a four-day supply of food.
Hainings - third place winners Second place went to The Farnums of Galena and third place was taken The Haining Family of Branson.
Anyone wishing to donate cash, food, or time, can call Executive Director Pat Davis at 3341157 or visit CAM’s website at
www.christianactionministries.org.
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www.OzarksChristianVoice.com
YOUR GATEWAY TO THE STARS! Branson’s Newest Attraction, Explore Space (Branson, MO) The Space Museum of Bonne Terre, MO is pleased to announce the opening of its new facility in Branson. Explore Space is a dynamic exhibit that will be ever growing, expanding and improving to better achieve its goals and sphere of influence. These goals include advocacy for continued robust robotic and human space flight and the inspiration of a new generation to adopt those STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) disciplines that are essential for this continued exploration. Additionally it is hoped that by presenting the history making achievements of the “Golden Age of Space” that individuals are encouraged to once again adopt those values and disciplines that allowed our nation to achieve its goal of reaching the moon in a single decade. Explore Space is well connected with recognized and credible organizations such as NASA, Scope, the Apollo One Foundation, the Astronaut Walk of Fame, the St. Louis Science Center and the Astronaut Memorial Foundation. Explore Space also has many friends in the aerospace community including astronauts, NASA personnel, aerospace engineers and commercial space entrepreneurs. Many of these will be visiting the attraction. These associations will insure that Explore Space is and will continue to be a world class destination and will remain on the cutting edge of space technology. Explore Space boasts a vast collection of world class artifacts from private collections, aerospace industry and NASA. This collection is constantly expanding and will guarantee that repeat visitors will see something different and new each time. Interactive displays demonstrating space sciences are assured to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.
September 2013
Ask the Rabbi
our Rejoicing”. It is also called the “Feast of Dedication” – because it was during the Feast of Tabernacles that the Temple of Solomon was dedicated (2nd Chron. 7) It is also called the “Festival of Lights” (“Chag Ha Orim” in Hebrew) because of the “glory” of God that filled the Temple of Solomon. IN ADDITION IT IS CALLED “CHAG HA GOYIM” (THE FEAST OF THE NATIONS)
with Rabbi Jeremy Storch continued from centerfold The Feast of Tabernacles is called in Hebrew “Sukkot” (Feast of Booths). Some of the basic scripture references for the Feast of Tabernacles are found in Lev. 23.34-44 & Deut. 16:11-16. Sukkot is one of the most joyful feasts of the Lord celebrated for 7 days, from the 15th -21st of the month of Tishrei, which is the 7 month of the year(during the fall) according to the Hebrew calendar. Yeshua (Jesus) Himself attended the Feast of Tabernacles according to John 7 and on the last & greatest day of the Feast, He stood up in the midst of the people and cried out “if anyone is thirsty, let him come unto Me and from his innermost being will flow rivers of living water”, speaking of the Holy Spirit (John 7:37- 39) THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES HAS DIFFERENT NAMES AND THEMES GIVEN TO IT: It is called in Hebrew “Chag Ha-asif” – “The Feast of Ingathering” because it celebrates the “ingathering” of the fall harvest. It is called “Z’man Simchateynu” – “ the Season of
It is hoped that the huge venue enjoyed in Branson will allow The Space Museum through Explore Space to generate the revenue necessary to positively impact the Branson community, Missouri and ultimately all of humankind. It is our desire to work closely with area schools in order to provide hands-on educational programs and assemblies so that the children can see and feel the artifacts and comprehend the awe of space exploration. One day these same children might become world changers and history makers.
The Space Museum is located at 3027 W. HWY 76, Branson Missouri. We are located across from the Wax Museum on HWY 76 and parking is free. Tickets are for sale at the museum: Adults- $10.00, Kids$8.00 and children under 5 get in FREE! Call the Museum for further details at (417) 334-6699. We hope to see you soon!
To contact Jeremy for ministry in your congregation, for a radio or television interview or other special event, or for information on his albums or teachings, please call or email: Tabernacle of Praise, Branson, MO ~ Phone: 417-334-7373 • Email: info@JeremyStorch.org Website: www.JeremyStorch.org Rabbi Jeremy Storch is the Rabbi, Cantor and Worship leader of The Tabernacle, Branson, Missouri’s Messianic Jewish congregation. For more information on the Biblical Hebrew roots of Christianity, visit:
TheTabernacleInBranson.com Sun. 8:00am & 10:30am • Wed. 6:30pm
Since Explore Space is a not for profit organization, the visitor can take pride knowing that every dime they spend with us will ultimately be returned to the community through museum outreach. In addition to our education and outreach activities, it is also our desire to attract the New Space commercial companies to the Branson area. There is no reason why Branson could not become the gateway for Midwest commercial spaceflight. A lofty goal perhaps but it is one that epitomizes the desire of the organization. We encourage all to dream big and work hard, and then watch those dreams become reality!
This is very interesting, because once again we see that the biblical Jewish feasts of the Lord are not just for the Israelites, but for all the nations. In Deut. 16:11-16 , God commanded any “strangers” living amongst the Israelites to celebrate Sukkot (The Feast of Tabernacles) with them. The word for “stranger” reads in Hebrew “geyr” which can also mean a foreigner, and alien, a non – Israelite or a Gentile, from the word “geyr” we get the plural word “goyim” – which means “the nations’
www.GraceCommunityAssembly.com Grace Community Assembly • 440 State Hwy 248 Branson, MO • 417-336-2422
Pastor David Betzer
Pastor Pastor Allen Asbury Michael Prince Equiping our families for ministry to each-other and outreach to the needy and lost.
September 2013
If you are found in Christ you are already Righteous by an Unknown Prophet
The Bible says that because of the sacrifice of Jesus sin is broken.
H
earing the song, ♪You are stronger. Sin is broken♪ led me to this thought. Look around you. Do you think that when you see all these people living in sin? Well see that’s what the son of God was made manifest to do was to destroy the works of the devil. I heard of one of my mentors recently make a comment when he was teaching. He said, “You know what? Jesus just didn’t come to destroy sin; he came to destroy the works of the devil. What’s the works of the devil? Condemnation.” Sin causes you to feel guilty to keep you down. So therefore it rules over you. It’s a sin consciousness. Religion has been helping with sin consciousness for years, trying to tell you you’re all messed up. But here’s the thing, Jesus set us free from the condemnation, not just the sin but the condemnation that comes from it. How many of you reading this are saved and know Jesus? How many of you have missed the mark since you’ve been saved? Well, I guess this Bible’s a lie! No! You don’t understand. You don’t sin
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any longer as a sinner outside of the law. standing with the Father. No longer are Him as their savior. The Father develops You now are in Christ. Jesus fulfilled all you a sinner saved by Grace. Now if you us as His children, we come in as His the law and all children. A while ago I saw my the prophets. friends carrying their one year Religion has been helping with sin conAnd so He says old. If you go to the baby and when you come sciousness for years, trying to tell you ask him, “Do you know you’re into the KingHe’s going to go, you’re all messed up. But here’s the thing, human?” dom you now “Huh?” But we all know he is. are judged ac- Jesus set us free from the condemnation, But he doesn’t have any knowlcording to His not just the sin but the condemnation edge of being human. That’s Word of right how it is when you get born that comes from it. again. We don’t have any standing chilknowledge of what that really dren of the Most High. So now He doesn’t attribute sin to argue with that, here’s my suggestion: get means. But we’re birth into righteousness, you the way you were when you were saved! Because religion will tell you all new nature, a new right standing with locked out of this thing. There’s some- kinds of garbage, manmade ideas giving God. And now when you mess up, God thing that keeps the condemnation off of you an opinion of what God did. But the takes you as a Father. Bible is true! And anybody that says it’s not See? He’s Almighty God to all creation, is the liar. to all of us too. But here’s the thing, He put a higher title upon Himself in relation Jesus said that the to us once we received His Son. Once we Spirit inspired men to receive Jesus, He’s our savior. Now God write this book; He says, “I am Father to you.” Remember, spoke through them He said, “No one can get to the Father exand told them what to cept through Me.” So now God exalted write. Understand this: Himself above His own name, as far as there are hidden treas- calling Himself Almighty God, and He ures in that book that’s put a title called “Father.” That’s a huge not for everybody to thought. That’s an amazing thing, only to read, not for every- us who are His kids. Outside of that, the body to understand. world does not know Him as a Father, He said, “Unto you it’s only Almighty God which He is, Creator been given to know of all things. But those of us who are His the mysteries of the children come into a love affair. We’re Kingdom of God, but birthed in because God so loved the world unto those who are that He gave His only begotten Son. In outside, it’s not been other words, God loved us and He gave you, one thing and one thing only: the given. So that hearing may not be heard Jesus to us so that through that love affair Blood. Jesus’ sacrifice got sin off of you. and seeing they may not perceive.” He’s we could have relations with Him, and so And when it got sin off you, He birthed hidden things in there, for only the wise we could fellowship with Him. That’s you from above and made you in right and prudent who actually have receive why God created us.
Even odder, the black-garbed priest emergency workers have told her there is watching said it appeared as if the priest Mystery Priest at Accident Scene does not appear in any of the nearly 70 no way her daughter should have lived in- also sprinkled Reed and two other emerHailed as an Angel by MELANIE EVERSLEY/USA TODAY
A mystery priest who suddenly appeared—and then disappeared—at a Missouri accident scene is being called an angel. Emergency workers and others in eastern Missouri are not sure what to make of a mystery priest who showed up at a critical accident scene Sunday morning (Aug. 4) and whose prayer seemed to change life-threatening events for the positive.
photos of the scene of the accident in which a 19-year-old girl almost died. No one knows the priest, and he vanished without a word, said Raymond Reed, fire chief of New London, Mo. “I think it’s a miracle,” Reed said. “I would say whether it was an angel that was sent to us in the form of a priest or a priest that became our angel, I don’t know. Either way, I’m good with it.” Carla Churchill Lentz, the mother of the teen who was critically injured, said
side such a mangled car. “I do believe he certainly could have been an angel dressed in priest’s attire because the Bible tells us there are angels among us,” she said. Reed and the other emergency workers were on their knees. The priest of about medium build, maybe 6-feet-tall, stood above them. “This priest approached Katie and began to pray openly with her,” Reed said. “He had a bottle of anointing oil with him and he used that.” Another firefighter who had been
gency workers nearby with oil. Lentz was removed and rushed to the hospital. With Lentz gone, the rescue team prepared to clean up, Reed said. Initially, they assumed he had to get to his home church to lead Sunday services. But then they looked at their photos of the scene. “I have 69 photographs that were taken from minutes after that accident happened — bystanders, the extrication, our final cleanup — and he’s not in them,” Reed said.
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September 2013
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Please research the story before you forward something on the web. Christians must be very cautious against bearing false witness.
Answers to Sudoku Puzzle on Page 35
Pierce Arrow’s Tim Storms
Across 1. Subsequently 6. Small snake 9. Soft or semiliquid food 12. Freight 13. Tall woody perennial grass 15. Assist or encourage 17. A visual representation 18. Unite or merge 20. Lair 21. Domesticated bovine animals 22. Old salt 23. Powdery starch 26. Japanese currency 27. Type of tree
28. Forever 30. Beverage 32. Less than the full amount 33. Fell concern or interest 36. Large military dining room 40. Unlace 41. In the past 42. Speed in music 43. Part of a hammerhead 44. Stalk 45. Relating to the city 46. Acquire 48. Nipper 50. Ballet step 53. Part of a circle 55. Spool
56. Pertinent 57. Military action 60. Circuit 63. Lizard 65. Sound off 67. Unit of metric weight, in short 68. Part of a camera 69. Squander 70. Condensation 71. Allow 72. Organic compound Down 1. Corrosive material 2. Renown 3. Interpret 4. Food product 5. Fish eggs 6. Song for solo voice
7. Transmitted 8. Trivial 9. Golfing term 10. Die away 11. Part a flower 14. Erase 16. A limited time period 19. Segment of DNA 21. Demure 24. Canvas canopy 25. Total receipts at a sports event 28. Skin condition 29. Singing jazz 31. Punish by a fine 32. A small amount of liquid food 34. Mature 35. Frolic 37. Add details to
38. Box lightly 39. Offspring 42. Melody 44. Saunter 47. Alleviate 49. Anger 50. Group of hunting animals 51. Plant-sucking insect 52. No longer new 54. Wicker fishing basket 58. Voice quality 59. In or of the present month 61. Poker stake 62. Look searchingly 64. Hayloft 65. Be in debt 66. Hit lightly
Born August 28, 1972 in Tulsa, Oklahoma and raised in Waterloo, Indiana, Tim developed an ear for vocal music at a young age. His musical influences include many a cappella music groups. During his career in Christian music, Tim has been blessed to be able to sing in Brazil, France, Switzerland, Jamaica, Fiji, Russia and England, as well as all over the United States. Tim set a Guinness World Record for the lowest note produced by a human by vibrating his vocal chords down to .189 Hz, which is just over seven octaves below the piano. He also set a Guinness World Record for the widest vocal range for a male. The new record was announced via CNN and Reuters at Ripley's Believe It Or Not, London, England. Tim joined Pierce Arrow at the beginning of the 2006 season and currently lives in the Branson area with his wife, Angie, daughter Emma, and son Evan.
Socialism: A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul. -- George Bernard Shaw
September 2013
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At 10 years old, Fatima contracted diphtheria. A friend suggested she see a doctor who had recently finished his studies. With the doctor’s help, Fatima's health returned. The young doctor was killed just one week later. At 14, Fatima experienced major complications with her monthly cycle. She was bedridden for several weeks with excessive bleeding. After trying countless remedies, Editor's Note: This testimony comes firsthand she visited a Jewish rabbi. Within days, her health was from a Muslim-background believer in North restored. Ten days later, her father passed away suddenly. Africa. During the tumultuous period of her life that followed, Fatima had three dreams, or visions. When Fatima* was only a few years old, she began The first vision was that Jesus was inside Fatima’s praying to God. With her little cupped hands lifted up, house. He was dressed in a white robe, and with His she asked that He would heal her because she was very hands lifted up to heaven, He said to her, “My poor weak and couldn’t walk yet. At 3 years old, God an- daughter.” She could feel an immeasurable tenderness swered her prayer. and love in His eyes and voice. The same week, she dreamed she had died and was being carried out of her house on a stretcher. Her family was crying and following the body, but Fatima suddenly sat up on the stretcher and told them, “Don’t worry, I have eternal life.” The third vision was of herself as a baby again, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid on the windowsill. She later understood this to mean she could either choose to stay in darkness or choose to live in the light. Fatima thought nothing of these visions until 40 years later, when she had another vision and this time understood it was Jesus. Fatima’s daughter became a follower of Jesus while traveling abroad. “[My daughter] started bombarding me with Jesus,” she says. Fatima responded by returning to what she knew from her own culture—Islam. She began praying in earnest and reading the Quran. She was torn between love for her daughter and her own search for truth. • Locally-Owned • Bruce and Store Hours Monday – Saturday For four years, Fatima continued to Kim Erdel from 9AM to 7PM • Physical Ad- search and question, all the while feeling dress: 4145 South National Ave, as if she was experiencing attack from Satan. Finally, when she was frustrated one Springfield • 417-891-2200 day, she asked some Christians to pray for or Toll Free 1-888-835-0034 her. She even sent an email to a prominent televangelist requesting he pray for her. That night, Fatima had a vision. In the vision, it was thundering and lightning out-
Muslim Woman Receives Jesus Revelation Through Vision by Megan Ross at Charisma News.com
Serving the Ozarks since 1990
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Page 27 side, and her whole room was lit up. She felt great warmth throughout her body, but she could not speak. She saw the same Jesus she saw when she was teenager. She tried to switch on the light, but a heavy hand prevented her. Then Jesus appeared again, and this time she was able to switch on the light. Fatima was utterly convinced Jesus was the true God, and she shouted, “Thank you, God! I’m a Christian now!” She immediately turned on her television to the Christian network and heard the man on the screen quoting Matthew 4:4, which says, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’” (NIV). She found the Bible her daughter had given her and began reading the book that, until now, had never made sense to her. It seemed as if the veil was removed from her eyes, and she consumed God’s Word. “For two weeks, I ate nothing but [read] the Bible!” she says. Then Fatima visited her aging mother. That night, her mother had a dream a man was knocking at the door. She told her son to be ready for the knock and to open it when the man came. When he opened the door, it was Jesus, dressed in a white robe, asking, “My son, do you want light?” Four years later, Fatima’s mother became a believer. Her mother, who had been a very strict and harsh woman all of Fatima’s life, softened in her last years, even asking forgiveness from many she had hurt. During the last week of Fatima's mother's life, she could only speak the name of Jesus. Fatima’s brother has still not become a believer, but he has recently woken twice from deep sleep believing he heard someone knocking at the door. Fatima prays for him and believes there is still hope he will answer. *Name changed Megan Ross is a photojournalism student passionate about telling the stories of how God is moving in our world. She is currently completing a three-month communications internship in the Middle East and is open to wherever the Lord leads next.
The Ozarks Christian Voice is available FREE at all Family Pharmacy locations!
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September 2013
September 2013
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bies and children, this ineffective commu- health issues, our focus is not treating or and emotional stressors or ‘insults’ to our nication may play out as colic or irritabil- curing ailments; our focus is ensuring the health, such as bad posture, prolonged ity, an inability to suckle and nervous system has every oppostures, sleeping on our breastfeed, poor sleep, devel- portunity to work effistomachs, knocks and opmental delays, digestion is- ciently and effectively. falls, poor food choices, sues, asthma, behavioral dehydration, exposure to Some adults may wonder problems, low energy, inabil10 reasons parents take their chemicals and toxins, why more and more chility to concentrate, headaches, children to see a Chiropractor: and stress and anxiety. dren are starting to see chietc. – the list is •To encourage Some research suggests ropractors. That’s a good endless. In fact, good neural plasthat even before these question and the answer is regardless of ticity (brain and lifestyle stressors have an simple: whether we have a what the end renerve developimpact, nerve irritation large spine or a tiny little sult or symptom ment) may occur in the uterus spine, if that spine is creatDr. Bo adjusting may be, all roads •To support their from awkward positioning nerve distress then our Dr. Bo giving baby sweet 6-year-old to ‘optimal child’s overall ing, restriction of movemagnificent bodies will not Levi his very first health’ lead back health and wellment, and exposure to Gracie operate smoothly… Adjustment to the body’s being toxins. Subluxations or ability to self•To help strengthen their nerve irritation may also occur from birth The nervous system is the regulate and function at a child’s immunity & potencomplications such as long labors, very ‘Master Controller’ of our body and if its peak level. tially reduce the incidence fast labors, or forceps or caesarean delivcommunication channels become fuzzy, Dr. Bo checking & of colds, ear-aches & genery. distorted or damaged then we experience clearing baby eral illness all sorts of communication errors. For ba- While chiropractic may be Kayden able to help with a number of •To assist with colic and Ir- Chiropractic for little people is absolutely ritable Baby Syndrome safe, gentle and effective. Babies can be •To help with asthma, breathing difficul- checked by a pediatric chiropractor very ties & allergies soon after birth and special techniques •To encourage good spinal posture have been developed to carefully correct •To help improve their child’s ability to any subluxated areas. When we appreciconcentrate ate how the nervous system may be hin•To assist with behavioral disorders dered and impaired it makes sense why 800 State Highway 248 more parents are having their child’s •To help alleviate digestive problems Suite 2-B •To assist with bed-wetting & sleep issues spine and nervous system assessed.
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“I praise you because I am fearfullyand wonderfully made…” ~Psalm 139:14
“Thanks be to God, who gives us VICTORY through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 15:57
Can you cook at night with the lights out? For example, imagine your nervous system is like the lighting system in your home. If the lights start to dim, you might not be able to cook dinner very well, you may start banging into furniture, you may trip and hurt yourself, you may feel frightened. How the dim lights influence you precisely will vary but the issue is still the same – there is a communication problem between the wiring and the light globe which needs detecting and fixing. In the same way, chiropractors spend years studying the nervous system to be able to detect and correct these ‘communication errors’ in the body. Another question you may ask is… “How do little kids get nerve irritation?” Nerve irritations (or vertebral subluxations) occur as a part of normal daily life. They may result from physical, chemical
Dr. Bo cares for the young & the young at heart! (excerpt was taken from WellAdjustedBabies.com, pictures are of actual patients of Victory Chiropractic) “Thanks be to God, who gives us the VICTORY through our Lord Jesus Christ.” I Cor. 15:57 Victory Chiropractic – A Family Life Center • 800 State Hwy. 248, Ste. 2-B • Branson, MO 65616
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LIBERAL SMALL BUSINESS OWNER, ONCE AN OBAMACARE SUPPORTER, NOW RIPS PROGRAM COSTS: ‘IT’S GIGANTICALLY TROUBLESOME TO ME’ by Dave Urbanski - The Blaze Link Christensen operates Tennessee Awning Co. in Chattanooga, a small business that creates awnings, canopies, tarps, and industrial fabrics. Among his employees are needle workers, who don’t get big salaries — but at least Christensen doesn’t farm out their tasks overseas. Plus he offers health insurance to his employees. In line with that, Christensen — a self-described “leftleaning social activist” — was looking forward to the implementation of Obamacare as it “sounded like a good idea to offer insurance to all the people in the country.” That’s what Christensen told a Chattanooga chapter meeting of the National Federation of Independent Businesses this recently. He said he figured Obamacare would lead to better health for people like his employees and end practices such as emergency room visits for minor ailments, the Chattanooga Times Free Press reports. Except Christensen didn’t realize how much Oba-
September 2013
macare would cost him — now he’s terrified about how much it will cost his employees. “Some of those regulations about what the costs of my employees are going to be are horrendous, and I can’t understand the math,” he said during the meeting. “Listening to the insurance providers and…webinars on how to figure out what our costs are going to be in this program, it’s gigantically troublesome to me.” Not only that, but Christensen says he’s sure the people who work for him will totally lose all coverage. Why? Because his currently cost-effective CoverTN program doesn’t qualify under Obamacare’s rules and will disappear at the end of the year, the Times Free Press says. CoverTN costs employees and Christensen about $60 each per month, but Obamacare would double that, the Times Free Press says, making it an impossible budget item for those who earn minimal pay. “It’s not going to be any type of bargain for people who work for me,” he said. “I’m concerned that my employees and others in that socioeconomic background are going to be left without any coverage because of the requirements of that program.” Also in attendance at the meeting was U.S.
Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tenn.; as you might expect, the left-leaning Christensen didn’t vote for him.
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September 2013
Patsy Cline Remembered Patsy Cline Remembered is a show that not only features the greatest hits of one of the most influential female vocalists, but invites you to explore the reality of who Patsy was beyond her music. Come celebrate her achieve-
Terminally Ill Stranger 'Just Wanted To Do Something Nice' by Billy Hallowell - The Blaze
P
icture this: You’ve been given a terminal diagnosis and have limited time left on earth. What would you do with your time? Would you have the emotional ability to think beyond yourself and your own mortality? One woman in Aurburn, Maine, was reportedly faced with these very questions. And she made a stunning and monumentallyinspiring decision. And now shes’ being called the “back to school angel” after generously paying off 16 layaway orders for struggling families at a local Kmart store. “She was here about 15 minutes. She paid off 16 the layaways in cash, about $3,000,” store manager Joyce Beane told WCSH-TV. “Then she said, ‘I’m not feeling well. I need to leave.’” The mystery woman apparently told Kmart staff members that she was extremely ill. She appaently paid off the accounts in an effort to do something
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com ments and grieve her troubles as you discover how she paved the way for women to become an integral part of Country Music. Patsy Cline Remembered stars C.J. Newsom, who performed in the award winning John Denver Tribute show for over six years, and now is eager to share how Patsy influenced her life and the career of many female country singers. The show takes you on a journey of not only Patsy’s experiences, but of those that influenced her like Judy Garland,
her friends such as Loretta Lynn, and those most influenced by her like Reba McEntire. Patsy Cline Remembered is an engaging and entertaining show. As the last notes fade away, you will feel like you have become a close friend of a musical giant, Patsy Cline.
The angel’s actions, then, will go much further than she likely realized. “It takes all kinds of people in this world. This lady proved there are still good people out there,” said Thibeau, who was clearly elated. “So many other kids, this woman is helping and she doesn’t even know it. When I talk about it, It’s like a dream.” The incident reportely unfolded late last month. Beane was so moved by the gesture that she told the Lewiston-Auburn Sun Journal that she “wanted to cry” after witnessing the powerful and kind act, especially since it was coming from someone who purportedly had such little time to live.
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good with her life before she died. Considering that the families who had layaway accounts were behind in their payments, her kind gesture was much appreciated. One of the women who had an order on layaway was Rina Thibeau, a grandmother who works as a night janitor. Little did the layaway angel know, but Thibeau also runs a charity called Christmas Smilez — a group that helps provide items for children in need. And she uses Kmart’s layaway program to secure and purchase these items.
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www.OzarksChristianVoice.com yet for the appointed time. ... Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay” (Hab. 2:3). are strong.
God Has a Word for You in Your Darkest Season by J. LEE GRADY
I
t’s unfortunate that the last 12 books of the Old Testament are tagged the “minor” prophets. The term was coined because these writings are short, not because they are unimportant. God’s heart is powerfully revealed in the prophecies of Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi. These 12 short books are anything but minor. If you have never seriously studied them, I challenge you to start digging now. Just as Jesus chose 12 unsophisticated disciples to preach the glorious news of His kingdom, God chose these 12 obscure prophets to preach a message of hope during the darkest period of Israel’s history. When I am going through times of uncertainty, doubt, fear or hopelessness, I often turn to the “minors” to build my faith. These books of the Bible remind us of five important truths: 1. God uses insignificant people to speak for Him. Scholars know nothing about Obadiah, whose name simply means “God’s servant.” Habakkuk wrote powerful prophetic prayers, but we know nothing about his life or lineage. Little is known about Micah, yet he accurately prophesied the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Joel, as far as anyone knows, was a nobody— yet his words were quoted on the day of Pentecost. The minor prophets remind us that spiritual anointing has nothing to do with social status, popularity or worldly prestige. God chooses the weak things of this world to shame those things that
2. God speaks even in the darkest times. The minor prophets wrote during a season when Israel was about to be invaded or during her captivity. The prophets brought harsh warnings and forceful calls to repentance—reminding us that God is sovereignly at work when our enemies seem to be in charge. Are you in despair about the moral or
4. There is always hope for the righteous. Even though the minor prophets predicted dire judgment, they also offered the hope of restoration. Through Amos, the Lord scolded Israel for her unjust ways, but then He promised Jerusalem, “I will also raise up its ruins and rebuild it as in the days of old” (Amos 9:11). There is light at the end of the tunnel if you are a follower of Jesus.
September 2013 much that He paid the ultimate price to change our hearts. I love the way Micah says it: “Who is a God like You, who pardons iniquity ... ? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in unchanging love” (Mic. 7:18). If you have been in despair, tune your ear to what God is saying. Soak your mind in the message of the minor prophets, and let the Holy Spirit rekindle hope. J. Lee Grady is the former editor of Charisma and the director of the Mordecai Project (themordecaiproject.org). You can follow him on Twitter at @leegrady. He is the author of The Holy Spirit Is Not for Sale and other books.
If you are discouraged because of backslidden friends, unsaved family Remember: God’s timing is different members, dead from yours. Even when God seems silent, churches or your spiritual drywhat He said will come to pass. A break- own ness, you can take through is on the way! courage from the words of spiritual condition of our country? Don’t Habakkuk, who wrote, “Though the fig Having Fun at Work? assume God has turned out the lights tree should not blossom and there be no Regional Managers Needed and closed the doors on us. He wants to fruit on the vines ... yet I will exult in speak to us when circumstances are The Ozarks Christian Voice the Lord” (Hab. 3:17-18). It’s never as bleak. The minor prophets affirm that bad as it looks! God offers real hope to needs a regional managers God wants to talk to us when it looks those who call on Him. for the Branson, Springfield like it can’t get any worse. Israel had and Joplin markets. This is a been under 70 years of judgment, but 5. God’s faithfulness never changes. generous commission only God did not leave them to despair. He The minor prophets reveal God’s charsent Zechariah to say, “I will return to position with unlimited acter with amazing depth. Hosea underZion” (Zech. 8:3, NASB), and, “I will stood God views His relationship with earnings! Leads provided. save you that you may become a blessus as a marriage covenant. Jonah discovMeet many interesting people ing” (Zech. 8:13). When God’s word ered God’s amazing compassion for sinof faith through business and breaks in, it changes everything! ners. Zephaniah reveals God’s love is so ministry leaders in our comintense that He rejoices over His people 3. God's promises never fail. The “with shouts of joy” (Zeph. 3:17). munity. Must have minor prophets spoke of coming redependable transportation demption and restoration, but their But what is revealed most clearly by the and past experience in ccount words were followed by 400 “silent “minors” is God’s faithful commitment managing. Gas allowance years” between the end of Malachi and to us as His people, even when we go the birth of Jesus. The prophets spoke of astray. These Old Testament prophets provided. Call John at the regathering of Israel, the coming of lived before the coming of Jesus, but (417) 353-7598 the Savior and the outpouring of the they understood grace better than many Holy Spirit. But the seed of His of us do. Our gracious God wanted a reprophetic promise had to fall in the lationship with us so ground and die before it could bring Mr. B’s Ice Cream Parlor 102 S. Bus Hwy 65 forth fruit. Branson, MO 65616 Old Fashion Sodas- MaltsHISTORIC DOWNTOWN Remember: God’s timing is different Shakes- Hand-Dipped Ice BRANSON from yours. Even when God seems Cream & Cobblers silent, what He said will come to Hot Dogs- Chili DogsJudy Dees pass. A breakthrough is on the way! Deli Sandwiches Real (417) 336-5735 Habakkuk wrote, “For the vision is Lemonade & Limeade
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September 2013
The Truth About the Church's Fundraising Tactics by Larry Tomczak
Larry Tomczak says the way Christians are raising money today is ridiculous.
L
et's suppose you are closing out your day with some salsa and chips when you flip on the television. You wince as you witness a repeat performance--not of another episode of Survivor but of a highpowered, high-pressure appeal for money during a talk show on your local Christian station. "Ohhh, the anointing is so strong right now," the host says. "You need to give while the anointing is here!" You believe in the anointing of God and in the power of prayer. You love and appreciate many of the people on this TV program and you know God uses them. You certainly don't want to be critical. So you close your eyes, shake your head in disgust and turn off the set. "This is embarrassing," you say to yourself. "Something isn't right. Lord, I don't understand--does it have to be this way?" I know how you feel. I have seen this in church services and conferences and some of the same thoughts have surfaced in me. Over the next several days you find yourself in conversations with Christian friends. Somehow the topic of Christian fundraising is mentioned. The other people have strong opinions, from "It makes me sick" to "As soon as I see that stuff I turn off the TV." I wish this craziness were the exception, but it seems it is becoming the rule. During one recent week I turned on the tube and witnessed the following: *In a highly charged atmosphere, a motivational speaker told her audience to shout "Amen!" She was flanked by a group of nodding, hand-clapping and hand-waving supporters. "Slap someone in agreement," she said. Agreement with what? The speaker quoted Psalm 71:21 and promised if viewers would pledge
www.OzarksChristianVoice.com $71.21 a month for 12 months ($854.52) that God had told her He would give them "increase and greatness." The evangelist continued: "He'll stop that lawsuit. ... Greatness will be released in your job and finances and ministry and marriage even if you don't have the resources or have two nickels to your name or don't have a man to support you! Go to that phone and pledge $71.21 a month, and I prophesy to you that God will increase your greatness! Give now!" *A well-dressed "bishop" who divorced his wife and remarried one week later forcefully told his audience to "obey the prophet of God and give." He said God gave him a word for the young people: "You are in tremendous credit card debt, but if you'll get up and pledge money and put it on your credit card, God will intervene for you. Don't let anything hinder you. Today salvation comes to your house." (I wish I could remind this guy of Proverbs 22:26-27. It says that if you foolishly go into debt your very bed will be snatched from under you.) *Another internationally known church leader told his TV audience that eight men were supposed to give $1 million each in the offering. "You have a choice," he told them. "Obey God and win or disobey God and keep losing. You will lose God's blessing! Go! And praise God while you're dialing the phone." *Another leader used this hook to urge viewers to pledge money: "The more you pledge, the more protection you'll have from God." During other broadcasts this person had implied that people would be healed if they would sow money into his ministry! I can't help but remember the account of Simon the sorcerer in Acts 8:921. His greed lured him to ask Peter if he could buy the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Peter rebuked him sharply and said: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part
or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God" (NIV).
Stop the Madness! The people I have described are sincere, but they are also misleading God's people. And if we don't bring some correction to their behavior soon the testimony of the American church will be ruined. Referring to finances, the apostle Paul told the Corinthian church that their credibility was vital. "We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men" (2 Cor. 8:20-21). Can we say this today in our churches and ministries when we raise funds? Personally, I believe things have gotten so out of hand that our meek and mild Jesus is picking up His whip to cleanse the temple one more time. It's time to halt pressure-laden, deceptive, unbiblical, gimmicky practices that grieve God and hurt the cause of Christ-especially when we try to reach unbelievers. It's time to demote slick pulpit marketers who offer different colored "prayer bears," "prosperity bracelets" and other silly trinkets. What's next? Action figures and bobblehead dolls of our favorite TV preachers? Paul admonished the church at Rome that God's name was being blasphemed among the Gentiles because of them (see Rom. 2:24). What would he say about us? I am not a detached, armchair critic. I've been in the ministry more than 30 years in both local church and parachurch work. I know the financial pressures are real. I also know God is a God of abundance and prosperity, and I believe He honors the generosity of sincere people--even if they are wrongly pressured. I also thank God for multitudes of ministers who do display sensitivity and integrity in raising funds. (Thanks to Billy Graham for 50-
Page 33 plus years of a superb example!) In year's past, when church giving declined nationwide, I had to revise my local church budget, lay off a friend from a job, pray for a financial miracle and ask God a lot of questions about our goals. My congregation got so desperate for God's presence and provision that we shut down every church activity (we even closed our office!) so we could seek God from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. for an entire week. Our choice was simple: Either trust the flesh or trust God. When a church or ministry reaches a point of need, it makes sense to push the pause button and examine whether God's work truly is being done in God's way. Hudson Taylor, pioneer missionary to China, said this: "God's work, done in God's way, will never lack God's supply." If God promised to supply all our needs, then shouldn't we evaluate if our current "needs" are actually "wants"? We may realize that we have wandered off-course. How many ministry leaders make desperate pleas for projects that God never originated? Rather than manufacture a crisis by going on a fundraising binge ("We must raise $50,000 by the 31st, or we'll have to shut down!") maybe we should be honest and admit God is using lack to get our attention!
Supernatural Provision We've seen awesome financial miracles in my church. At the end of the year we were struggling we realized we needed $30,000 to meet our budget. After praying we informed people of the need. We requested prayer, reviewed biblical passages and invited a Spirit-led response. While I was driving to our office on New Year's Eve, I stopped by a post office. A man I'd never met popped out of the lobby and smiled. "I saw you deposit your mail and felt God wanted you to know He's making a deposit in your account today," he said to me. That afternoon a flurry of checks arrived. By the time the ball dropped at Times Square to signal the New Year, God had met our need with $30,500! continued on page 34
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DAVE $AY$
Financial Straight-Talk Dear Dave, How do you make sure you don’t spoil your child when you’re wealthy? Ryan Dear Ryan, I know this will sound mean to some people, but you simply explain to them that they are not wealthy. I remember a time years ago, after we’d gone broke, that we managed to scrimp and save and finally had a little bit of wealth. We bought a nice car and my son piped up from the back seat, all smug and satisfied, “We’re doing pretty good, huh?” I’ll admit it was kind of funny, but it was also a teachable moment. I looked at him and said, “I’m doing pretty good, but you’re broke!” That was a pretty consistent message around the Ramsey household as the kids were growing up. If you’re not working and making your own way, you’ve got nothing. The second thing is we taught them, from a very young age,
was to work. That can start with simple things like kids cleaning up their rooms or doing the dishes after dinner. It should carry over to the teenage years as well. Every able-bodied child should be working and earning money, whether it’s their own entrepreneurial idea, at a store in the mall or babysitting. The third thing we did was based in our faith. As evangelical Christians, we taught our kids that we don’t really own anything. It all belongs to God, and one of our jobs is to wisely manage the things He entrusts to us. The first rule is to take care of your own household— the important stuff. After that, it’s okay to have some nice things, but it’s not all about pleasure. It’s also about giving and extraordinary levels of generosity. Teach them to work. Teach them to be givers. And gently remind them once in a while that they’ve got nothing until they go out and earn it.
—Dave www.DaveRamsey.com
Will Smith with wife Jada interview with Oprah Winfrey Will Smith reminds his kids all the time, “Mommy and daddy are rich. You broke.” This interview was very inspiring! As we are now steeped in the divorce culture, they discuss an idea to ease tensions by extending families, when blended, to include former spouses.-publisher
I know God can provide. And I know He loves to pour out His extravagant love for us by meeting our needs. But we must stop misusing His Word and misrepresenting His character with our disgusting circus antics. If we excuse ourselves by saying we couldn't care less what the world thinks of our financial pleas, the perception among growing numbers of both Christians and nonbelievers will continue to be that something is rotten in our ranks. Whether we like it or not, perception is reality. We are turning people off, especially the younger "make it real" generation, when we manipulate people to fill offering plates.
September 2013 continue staging this embarrassing financial circus.
Let's Get Blunt About It Ten questions to ask before you give money to ministries:
1. Are the people who are asking for money modeling Christlikeness and servanthood or salesmanship and self-promotion? 2. Are they exalting Jesus Christ or exalting people and ministries? 3. Do they model prayerful dependency on God, or do they use pressure and manipulation to incite We need guidelines for fundraising.The father of others to give? all modern fund raising is George Müller (1805- 4. Do they give people an opportunity to quietly 1898). He established orphanages in England and and patiently hear from God, or do they insist that provided for thousands of needy children. I've vis- the giving must be done "now" or "instantly"? ited these former homes and pondered how God 5. Is there evidence of humility, purity and infaithfully supplied all the needs withtegrity in their deout any inappropriate sales techniques meanor and or high-pressure manipulation. presentation, or do Send me money they use insincere Müller's guidelines are relevant for and all your hype, pushiness and correcting much of the current fundstriving? problems will raising abuses, although I would add 6. Do they offer a sinone qualifier to his first point: solicitgo away! cere, faith-building ing monetary help presentation of Scriptures and testimonies Müller's guidelines state: or misleading prom* No funds should ever be solicited. ises and fear-inducing No facts or figures concerning needs suggestions? are to be revealed by the workers in the orphanage 7. Does this ministry have a record to anyone, except to God in prayer. [This is not a of spiritual fruit that honors God, or biblical mandate, but it is interesting that Müller's is their reputation marred by unwork was fully supported in this manner.] substantiated claims and exagger* No debt should ever be incurred. ated reports? * Money contributed for a specific pur8. Do the people asking for pose should never be used for any other money have godly lifestyles of purpose. humility and servanthood, or do * All accounts should be audited annually they live as pampered people who by professional auditors. require egotistical titles and lavish living? * No ego pandering by publication of donors' 9. Is the ministry financially accountable, or are names with the amount of their gifts. Each donor false assurances used to gain credibility? should be thanked privately. 10. Do they ever imply that giving in an offering * No prominent or titled persons should be sought will increase a person's spiritual gifts or level of for the board or to advertise the institution. anointing *The success of the institution should be measLarry Tomczak is a best-selling author and cultural ured not by the numbers served or by the amounts commentator with over 40 years of trusted ministry of money taken in but by God's blessing on the experience. His passion is to bring perspective, analywork, which is expected to be in proportion to the sis and insight from a biblical worldview. He loves time spent in prayer. people and loves awakening them to today's cultural We need to use discernment. It's time for the 21st century church to clean house or prepare to have Jesus clean our clocks as He did with the money changers of His day. We must not procrastinate or
realities and the responses needed for the bride of Christ—His church—to become influential in all spheres of life once again. editor’s note: Watch how we ask for provisions for the OCV on the next page...
September 2013
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Y
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Pierce Arrow’s M ic h elle Wait Michelle was born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska. She fell in love with performing after watching her brother sing in his high school musical production of '42nd Street' when she was eight years old. With some encouragement from her Mom, she went on to perform in show choirs and numerous school and community musicals while growing up. Michelle moved to Branson in 2004 and has been employed by several theater's in Branson. She has also been a featured vocalists for Celebrity Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line. Michelle is a certified personal trainer, but most of all, Michelle loves being a mother and spending time with her two little boys, Bo and Abe. Michelle is thrilled to be a member of the Pierce Arrow family!
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