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Pisgah Post Edition E dition n IIII, II, V Volume olume 3 3,, IIssue ssue 2 S Saturday, aturrda day, M Mar March arrch 2 2,, 2 2013 013
Spiritual Disciplines Discipline One: Meditation Throughout the centuries Christians have sought intimacy with God through the spiritual disciplines of Meditation, Prayer, Fasting, Study, Simplicity, Solitude, Submission, Service, Confession and Worship. Each spiritual discipline is a call to move beyond surface living into an intimate relationship with God. They are singular invitations for you to explore the inner caverns of the spiritual life. Biblical meditation is the ability to hear and obey God’s voice. Moses learned, albeit with many vacillations and detours, how to hear and obey the voice of God. In fact, Scripture witnesses that God spoke to Moses “face to face” as a man speaks to a friend (Exodus 33:11). In meditation you seek God to create a spiritual space, an inner sanctuary which allows Him access into the doorway of your heart.
Pastor Kevin Bryan
Examples of Biblical Meditation Scripture uses two different words for meditation, each conveying meanings such as: listening to God’s Word, reflecting on God’s works, rehearsing God’s deeds, ruminating on God’s law, among others. Scripture employ myriads of examples: “Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide...” (Gen. 24:63). “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.” (1 Timothy 4:15). “Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy Word” (Ps. 119:148). “... in His law doth he meditate day and night” (Ps. 1:2). The old priest Eli knew how to listen to God (1 Sam. 3:1-18). Elijah spent many days and nights in the wilderness in meditation. (1 Kings 19:9-18). Jesus made a habit of withdrawing to a quiet place in meditation and invites us to do likewise (Matt. 14:13).
Biblical Meditation Versus Eastern Meditation Biblical meditation and Eastern meditation are vastly different. Eastern meditation is an attempt to empty the mind; while Biblical meditation is an attempt to empty the mind of fleshly desires and fill it with thoughts of desperation for God. Eastern meditation emphasizes the need to become detached from the world. An emphasis is placed on loosing personhood and individuality, merging with the cosmic mind and released into the impersonality of Nirvana. There is no God to be attached to or hear from. Detachment without attachment is the desired result. Biblical meditation includes detachment from the desires of the flesh while incorporating attachment to God ... the need to be emptied of evil and filled with good (Luke 11:2426). It is birthed and sustained by desperation for intimacy with God.
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he notion that you can learn how to meditate from an article is preposterous and therefore must be dispelled. You learn the spiritual discipline meditation by meditating ... Meditation is most effective when linked with preparation and solitude. Being spiritually prepared, having a designated space and creating an environment of solitude are most essential. God is always at work actively seeking an intimate relationship with you. Today God is inviting you to build an intimate relationship with Him through the spiritual discipline of meditation. Will you accept His invitation and join Him at work today?
Forms of Biblical Meditation 1. Replacement: Put yourself in the role of a Biblical character 2. Centering Down: Retreat to place of solitude and reflect on the goodness of God 3. Meditating on Creation: Examine the trees, plants, birds, etc. and reflect on God’s creative activity 4. Reflective: Reflect upon world events and seek God’s perspective, understanding and direction
Mt. Pisgah Adventurer Club Keeps Little Ones Busy It was when her own children were old enough to join Adventurers, that Sister Chikina Williams decided to get involved with this ministry for the little ones ages pre-K four through fourth grade. Since 2006, Sister Williams, and her assistant Sister Robin Farrington, have seen Mt. Pisgah Adventurer Club grow to include 25 members and 15 volunteers. They grew the club by promoting it from the pulpit, and communicating with parents individually. However, the biggest jump in membership came when meetings were rescheduled from Sunday to Sabbath evening, making it convenient for parents and staff. At their meetings, Adventurers practice drills, hear Bible stories, do crafts, and work on requirements for club awards. Sister Williams, and her volunteers , have in the past, planned trips to local attractions including, Butterfly World, Lion Country Safari, Bush Gardens, Disney Animal Kingdom, and the beach. Expenses associated with these outings, and supplies needed for club meetings, are largely covered by club dues, and parent’s support. However, Sister Williams is inspired to further advance the Adventurer ministry this year, and plans on launching a fund drive to cover some of the expenses for 2013-14. Future plans for the club include the first over night campout, a trip to Zoo Miami, and outings with other Adventurer clubs in the conference. Additionally, Adventurers hope to join up with other Mt.Pisgah ministries in some of their outreach activities. Sister Williams remembers how touching it was to receive a call from the mother of an Adventurer, saying her daughter was quoting what she learned in a club meeting. “Ms. Chikina said our family should be careful of the music we listen to, and the T.V. shows we watch.” The club leaders have confidence young minds like that little girl’s are inspired by what they hear, and what they do as members of Mt. Pisgah Adventurers. It is Sister Williams’ desire that every eligible child in the church experience being a club member. She knows it’s a life style worth the commitment required of parents, and that as a result, they will see their children develop a lasting love for Christ. For more information contact Chikina Williams at: kina1297@gmail.com. Additionally you are invited to attend an Adventurer Club meeting 2nd and 4th Sabbaths, one hour before sunset.
Article By: Nancy Wells
“Drawing” the Spiritual Meaning of the Pathfinder Emblem Recently a chalk drawing appeared on the pavement behind the original Mt. Pisgah Church building. Who were the mysterious graffiti artists
that used side walk chalk to reproduce the Pathfinder emblem? Turns out it was four TLT’s (teen leaders in training) who had just returned from a training session for TLT’s at Tabernacle SDA Church. Having been inspired by what they learned about the official Pathfinder emblem, they decided to draw it in the parking lot. Among other TLT’s at the training, Mt. Pisgah Pathfinders; Jasmyn Williams, EJ Patterson, Sha’uary Dorelien, and Remone Forestal, received a refresher course on the content and meaning of the Pathfinder emblem. This emblem appears on their pathfinder uniform, beret, and the Pathfinder flag. Former and present Pathfinders will recall the emblem colors represent: red for the blood of Christ, gold for excellence, blue for loyalty, and white for purity. The triangle shape represents completeness of the God Head, also the tripod of education: physical, mental and spiritual. The shield represents the protection of God, and the sword represents the Bible. By Nancy Wells
Pathfinder Director Makes Plans for New Year A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step, this Chinese proverb I once lived by in my beginning stages of being a Pathfinder. I never imagined that 11 years later, I would have the honor and privilege of being called Mt. Pisgah Pathfinder Director. When I was younger I never truly understood the importance of what pathfindering was until I became an adult. I didn’t how many leadership skills I would develop, how I would learn to speak in public without fear, or even how my own self esteem would grow simply being around those who constantly encouraged me. I am a product of what a pathfinder club can do for a child’s salvation. It is my goal during my term as Pathfinder Director to help mold our young people to become soldiers for Christ. It’s my goal to prepare them not only for the time of trouble, but for the world that will live in today. One thing I realize is pathfindering puts you in a place where you are forced to either stand for something or fall for anything. That is a task I plan to instill in our club this year to stand for Christ and be able to fall a whole lot less than I did. During our first club meeting this year, I was blessed to have 2 inspired TLTs who wanted to do something out of the box and ended up inspiring not only myself, but my staff, the parents that were present, and mostly the other pathfinders. Those 2 TLTs then went on to having the reminder of the TLT class assist them with the project of drawing the pathfinder triangle (logo)with chalk in the church parking lot and then explaining to the entire club what each color and symbol represented. As the year moves forward, we plan on doing many activities one of which consists of an Educational trip to Washington DC. We plan on hopefully by the grace of God to tour the White House, visit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Adventist University, and a few other places. I hope this activity encourages the pathfinders about the importance of education especially since we live in America. The special outreach activity, I hope to complete, is building a marble maze for a children’s shelter, an activity that I hope will not only re-enforce team work but also give them a huge opportunity of selflessness. I imagine the idea of working hard on a marble maze toy and then
seeing the joy of a child less fortunate be able to play with something they created, prayerfully I hope, will achieve a sense of fulfillment of creating something for another even when it’s something they may want too. I also want to take the time to remind our parents and church family that pathfinder is now held every 1st and 3rd Sunday between the hours of 9am – 12p (early is on time and on time is late). Not only that but I would love to request the parents of the Pathfinders to come to our parent meeting after club March 17th so we could discuss the details of the Washington DC trip. I encourage those that are already in pathfinders to use it and learn from it, and for those who are not in it, I encourage you to participate because you never know what how the Holy Spirit could use you. Submitted by: Rosenald Alvin
Mt Pisgah Women’s Ministry Celebrates Heart Health Awareness Month On Sunday morning, February 17th the women of Mt. Pisgah came together in the church fellowship hall to celebrate “Heart Month”. Sister Amaral Jean-Bart, and the Women’s Ministry Team, chose this event to kick off a year of activities, and to emphasize their motto; “Be The Change You Want to See”. After a brief presentation by team member Sister Bola Awogbami on women’s heart health, professional trainer, D Byrd led out in a full cardio workout. Early teens, grandmothers, and all ages in between participated in a good workout that was also a lot of fun! Sister Amaral reminded the group that “Wellness for Women”, is a series of events schedule for every 3rd Sunday of the month. She also highlighted upcoming events including, Women’s
International Day of Prayer (March 3rd), and a Book Club for the women of Mt. Pisgah. She encouraged the women to become “Platinum Members” of Women’s Ministry, and that by contributing $10.00 a month; members will be entitled to special benefits. The Women’s Ministry Team wants all women to know; “Wellness for Women is a series of events designed to help build up the individual woman, and facilitate an environment where women can interact, and start or continue to build meaningful relationships.” Every female member of Mt. Pisgah is encouraged to participate in Women’s Ministries’ scheduled events in 2013, “Be the Change You Want to See.” By: Nancy Wells
Three Financial Lifestyle Choices We really have three lifestyle choices financially, regardless of our income level. 1. Living above our means. This lifestyle will mean increasing debt and stress to be sure. 2. Living within our means. This is what we all assume is the right way to live. It will result in a stead, balanced cash flow and will give a person freedom from the bondage of debt and significant financial worries. 3. Living below our means. This is the lifestyle many Christians have never considered, but need to. It will also result in a steady, balanced cash flow and freedom, but it also accomplishes more. Living below our means really prepares us to experience some additional blessings. Why should we consider living below our means? First of all, it’s the key to contentment – because we constantly realize there are things we choose not to buy. Secondly, when we spend less than we earn, we are free to give more than we even planned. When I spend less than I have, I discover that God has allowed me more money which He wants me to manage. Then when opportunities arise, I am free to give as God leads me.
Thirdly, when I spend less than I earn, my stewardship has a good chance of outlasting my own life. For one thing, if I’m a parent, I can be an example to my children. Many young adults and families struggle financially in their early years because they are used to the lifestyle of their parents. But our adult children may or may not be able to live at the level we live. Maybe the larger problem often is that children follow the philosophy of their parents that they should spend all the money they get. But if we as parents consistently demonstrate contentment by limiting our lifestyle, that’s the principle they can learn. And we are doing them and our grandchildren a huge favor. The other way that our stewardship can outlast the years we have on earth is by leaving money to ministries. Indeed leaving an inheritance to children is a good thing (Proverbs 13:22), but leaving some of it to serve God’s kingdom purposes might be even better. The only way to gather an inheritance is to spend consistently less than we earn. Let’s assume that God is challenging you and me to either live within or below your means. Is that a pretty safe assumption – that God is not trying to teach us how to live beyond our means? If we want to be stewards living within or below our means, we have to handle the spending issue. Sid Litke, Stewardship of the money we dont give, 2006, Biblical Studies Press; bible. org
Peer Problems He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. Proverbs 13:20
We have often prayed that the Lord would supply healthy friends to come alongside our kids at school and at church--friends who could be good, steady influences on them. But we also learned four critical unvarnished observations about peers: 1. Don’t assume your children’s peers have the same values as your family. Even if they go to the same church and youth group. Even if they seem to be like your children in most respects, don’t automatically consider them good friends for your kids to be around. Exercise discernment. 2. Don’t assume your children’s peers are good choosers of friends themselves. Just because a boy or girl comes from a good home, you don’t know the kind of friends they have. You don’t know who’s likely to be hanging around at their house when your children are there. 3. Don’t believe everything your children’s peers say. Trust me, even good teens can be deceitful. Our children had friends who lied right to our faces. They lied behind our backs. They were “good” kids by most standards, but they needed to be held accountable and checked up on. 4. Don’t assume your children’s peers will speak the truth to your children. More than any of the other three items in this list, this
one snuck up and bit us. Our daughters had friends who were from great families but who literally tried to undermine what Barbara and I were attempting to teach. It takes energy, foresight and thick skin to monitor your children’s friendships. But whatever the cost in tension, embarrassment and involvement, it’s a bargain compared to the bill some friends can run up in your children’s lives. I’m not encouraging you to give in to fear and raise loners. I’m not telling you that your kids are too good to be around others. I’m just saying that friends bear watching. Getting to know them well is a good investment of your time. Discuss with each other, what do you really know about your children’s friends? How could you find out more? Pray and earnestly ask God to bring godly friends into your children’s lives. Excerpted from Moments With You by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. www.familylife.com
Name: Gianela Diaz-Gaines “Gigi�
Birthday: November 10, 1988
Favorite Scriptures: Habakkuk 2:3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Favorite Religious Song: The Name by Mali Music
Favorite Color: Purple
If you would like us to celebrate your birthday or anniversary with you in the Pisgah Post, please email us at PisgahCommunications@gmail.com
Basic Information About Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. Sometimes it is called colon cancer, for short. As the drawing shows, the colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus. Colorectal cancer affects men and women of all racial and ethnic groups, and is most often found in people aged 50 years or older. In the United States, it is the third most common cancer for men and women. Of cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, but it doesn’t have to be. If everybody aged 50 or older had regular screening tests, as many as 60% of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented.
Colorectal cancer screening saves lives. Screening can find precancerous polyps—abnormal growths in the colon or rectum—so that they can be removed before turning into cancer. Screening also helps find colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment often leads to a cure. About nine out of every 10 people whose colorectal cancer is found early and treated are still alive five years later. There are different ways to test for colorectal cancer. Some tests are done every 1 to 2 years. Other tests are done every 5 to 10 years. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you. If you are aged 50 or older or think you may be at higher than average risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor about getting screened.
Am I at risk for colorectal cancer? People over the age of 50 are at the highest risk of developing colorectal cancer. Other risk factors are: • Polyps (growths) inside the colon • Family history of colorectal cancer • Smoking • Obesity • Lack of physical activity • Health conditions, such as Crohn’s Disease, which causes chronic (ongoing) inflammation (swelling) of the intestines. • Most people can stop getting screened after age 75. Talk with your doctor. The 25 states and four tribes in CDC’s Colorectal Cancer Control Program (CRCCP) provide colorectal cancer screening services to low-income men and women aged 50–64 years who are underinsured or uninsured for screening, when no other insurance is available. Source: www.cdc.gov
10 minute Fruit Tart Recipe coutesy of Rachel Ray
Prep Time: 10 Min • • • • • • • •
Serves: 6
1 box vanilla or lemon flavor instant pudding mix 1 orange, zested 1/2 cup seedless raspberry or blackberry preserves 1 prepared graham cracker crust, found on baking aisle 1/2 pint raspberries 1/2 pint blackberries or blueberries, your preference 6 large strawberries, sliced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, optional
Directions: Make pudding according to package directions and let stand 5 minutes. Stir orange zest into the pudding. Spread a thin layerr of preserves er crust. across the bottom of graham cracker Top with pudding. Arrange fruit on t, pudding, then sprinkle pie with mint, if desired. Per serving: Calories: 311;Total Fat: 8 grams; Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams; Protein: 2 grams; Total carbohydrates: 59 grams; Sugar: 44 grams; Fiber: 3 grams; Cholesterol: 0 milligrams; Sodium: 351 milligrams
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Pisgah Food Pantry 2-4:30 pm
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Good Friday
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Guest Speaker Pastor Henry Wright
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8 am Worship Service Baptism
TLT Pinning Ceremony
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Preach Out & Music Fest
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Pathfinder Induction Service @ 6:30 pm
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Adventurer Induction Service @ 6:30 pm
10:40 am Speaker: Elder Randy Robinson
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Singles Ministry Event 7:30 pm
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10:40 am Worship Service Speaker: Pastor Gregory Nelson
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Kelvin Trocard Edeline ‘Dee Dee’ Severe Simone Laing Karen Greene Tannysha Yearby Elder Steve Williams Jasmyn Williams
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District 5 Adventurer Fun Day
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Jondra Grier Jessica Garcon Nancy Wells Peggy Joseph
Communications Team