Marks of a Christian at Asbury

february 2013

Marks of a Christian at Asbury

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ecause this column is written the first week of January, most of the numbers for 2012 are available. Before I talk about our “regular” numbers, let me address one of the major accomplishments of last year. The campaign to raise additional funds to pay off our debt was very successful. Over $5.2 million was committed for the 3-year period. Before the end of the year, we received enough early giving to allow us to make a $1 million payment. It was Tom’s hope that we would raise enough money to pay off the debt and to begin an endowment fund for the long-term support of our facility. Because of your generosity, this will also be possible. We anticipate having a $1 million fund by the end of the campaign. This is not only good stewardship, it is a wonderful intergenerational investment - setting the stage for Asbury’s success well into the future. Thank you very much!

Our operating results for 2012 are also good. Our budget for offerings was $10.25 million.

While we did not quite hit that number (about $270,000 short), our operating expenses will come in below budget even more than that. Therefore, we will end the year comfortably “in the black.” The budget for 2013 has not yet been finalized. In light of the 2012 results, it will be conservative.

Membership numbers continue to increase. However, worship attendance declined about 3% last year. This trend in worship attendance is true for the vast majority of traditional churches. Compared to that trend, Asbury is doing quite well. Even so, Tom and all of our leadership want to see this trend reversed at Asbury. There are a number of issues and challenges to work through, some pertaining specifically to Asbury and others to the broader environment. How best to respond has not yet been determined.

In Tom’s column this month, he talks about our new vision statement. The current sermon series has been walking us through it. Every ministry of the church is going to be focused on fully integrating the aspects that Tom discusses on the adjacent page. Wherever you are serving in Asbury (or outside of Asbury), we ask that you think about what you can do to support the advancement of this new vision.

Speaking of the sermon series, I hope each of you took advantage of the free sermon journals (previously known as “prayer journals”). Our pastor and ministry team are working hard to make this a meaningful devotional companion to go along with the sermons. A growing number of Asburians are using it as a personal devotional and as a means to be prepared for Sunday worship.

I draw your attention to a couple of opportunities. You will soon be hearing about our student ministry spring break missions project. It is one of the few special fundraising events that we have each year. Depending on their age, students go to various locations inside and outside the country. For many of them, these trips are very impactful. For some it is a major transforming event. Please support them generously. What we contribute is added to what the students must raise themselves. It is a good combination of individual initiative and congregational support.

As you consider where to invest your time within Asbury in the coming year, we encourage you to think of the intergenerational and developmental value you can contribute by serving in our children’s ministry. There are a wider range of opportunities than you might know about. You do not necessarily need to teach nor do you need to take care of babies. You simply have the opportunity to help our staff and teachers. There are also opportunities in hospitality, security and other areas. This is the most effective place to make a contribution toward our new vision. To see if this is a good fit for you, contact Abby Sluice at asluice@asburytulsa.org.

Thank you for your support in 2012 and for what you will do for the Kingdom through Asbury in 2013.

Dwight Yoder Executive Director

FEBRUARY 2013

Contents A Word From Tom Harrison Marks of a Christian at Asbury Walking with Christ, One Step at a Time Disciple Bible Study: Part I Showing Jesus’ Love on the Mission Field Obedience. What Does God Require of You? Confirmation Class for Mother and Daughter Advice from Couples Married 50 Years or More Scouting at Asbury, 2012 Don’t Count Me Out The Triumphant Two Grandpa John Recipes of the Month Opportunities Special Announcements

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We need you! Do you have a story of what God has done in your life? Please contact us and tell us a little bit about what God has done. We will all be encouraged by hearing stories of what God is doing in the lives of those around us.

Are you a writer or someone who enjoys writing?

The Communications Department is always looking for someone to do an interview and write a story for us for Tidings.

Have you noticed that we’ve been making some changes in Tidings? Please give us your feedback—both good and bad. Email kmains@asburytulsa.org or call 918.392.1140.

Asbury Tidings is a monthly publications designed to tell stories of lives being transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. You may read back issues by visiting www.asburytulsa.org.

Editor: Asbury Communications Department, 918.392.1140, kmains@asburytulsa.org Graphic Design: Tim Jurgensen, tjurgensen@ asburytulsa.org Photographers: Chris Lo (matchadesign.com), Mark Moore (markmoorephotography.zenfolio.com) Guest Contributors: Charlene Giles, Harlan Ford, Marilyn Glass, Christine Hickey, Jaime Jurgensen, Dan Mazzei, Karen Archambo McNutt, Kristi Self, Bob Walter, John Westervelt

A Word From Tom Harrison We’ve been discussing our new “vision” statement at Asbury.

Hopefully, you will have not only heard it but memorized it: “Developing all generations for significant lives in Christ.”

“Developing” means to make it grow into something better than before. We develop a muscle, a photograph, a skill or a method.

Development takes place because something with potential has never been expanded. Athletes, students and relationships develop. Part of my attraction to our tradition is because John Wesley always preached development for the Methodist people.

Salvation was essential, but salvation is not just a “past tense” experience. It isn’t static; it’s dynamic. It’s ongoing. Salvation is about the present and the future as well as the past. Development means we stay with people for the long term. It isn’t cosmetic but goes deep. We are trying to develop disciples of Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world.

“All generations” isn’t hard to understand! But Asbury wants to do it in an “inter-generational” way where people of different ages are brought together in relationship. While we have certain nuances from generation to generation (the movie, “Parental Guidance,” is a good illustration of such), a central fact remains: People are people, regardless of age. We want to have more than “multi-generations” (each doing their own thing). We want to integrate generations.

This is a challenge in today’s culture. But it’s our pursuit.

“For significant lives” means that we can live with purpose and meaning. As such, we have a reason God has placed us here. We have something which we are all called to do. (There’s a wonderful class being taught by Pastors Guy and Gloria called “Search for

Significance.”) When we find our place in ministry and mission is when we truly become blessed.

“In Christ” saves the best for last. If we live with significance in our deeds, our identity is also born from our significance. This is one of Paul’s favorite ways to express the true identity of a Christian.

We are “in Christ” like someone is in an airplane, a boat or a car.

We are contained, constrained and controlled by something we are NOT; so that we might go to places we could never reach. Paul uses the term 87 times in his writings (it’s found once in Acts and Peter uses it three times). Who am I? I am “in Christ.” When people “get” this understanding of who they truly are – that new identity “in Christ” makes for a total makeover. This is the spiritual equivalent to a golfer getting a “hole-in-one.” You’ll talk about it for the rest of your life!

Developing all generations for significant lives in Christ. That’s our new vision. It’s what we are trying to do. I’m looking for your hand in this engagement.

In Christ (see what I mean), Dr. Tom Harrison Senior Pastor

Ash Wednesday Service February 13, 6:00 pm Sanctuary Join us as we celebrate the beginning of Lent with this service led by our pastors. The disposition of ashes on each congregant’s forehead is a part of this meaningful service focusing us on the sacrifice our Lord made for us.

Children’s choirs and Wednesday Night Live will not meet but child care will be provided.

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MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN AT ASBURY In the sermon series titled “Bear the Marks,” we will focus on five things that should define a Christian at Asbury. The following articles highlight each of the marks being lived out by members of Asbury. Don’t forget to pick up your sermon journal!

THE MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN AT ASBURY: Worship and Obey Christ Learn and Live Out Scripture Influence and Invite Others Stewardship of Skills and Resources United with the Body of Christ By bearing these marks, we will see Asbury’s new vision of developing all generations for significant lives in Christ become evident in our church body and our individual lives.

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MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN: WORSHIP AND OBEY CHRIST

Walking with Christ, One Step at a Time

by Christine Hickey

“When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word, What a glory he sheds on our way!

While we do his good will, he abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey.”

–Trust and Obey, words by John H. Sammis, 1887 Deborah and Rex Powell with son Derrick

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How do you find treatment for something many people, including physicians, don’t understand? What propels you to find the truth and move forward instead of sinking into a chronic cycle of depression? Faith. Faith and family. For Deborah Powell, faith is trusting the Lord’s plan even when she’s in so much pain that some days she cannot get out of bed. After serving in the Air National Guard, Deborah worked in the medical field for 19 years, 13 of those years as an ultrasound tech, and she loved her job. As you can imagine, she was on her feet all day, pushing patient beds and being very physically active. Any perfectly healthy person would come home feeling worn out after a work day in that environment.

For Deborah, the pain and exhaustion became unbearable. After being treated for plantar fasciitis and being told by a doctor that she just needed to “think happy thoughts,” she was finally properly diagnosed with fibromyalgia in May 2011. According to WebMD, fibromyalgia is the most common musculoskeletal condition after osteoarthritis. Not too long ago, however, it was difficult to find a doctor who even believed in fibromyalgia, and it remains to be a very publicly misunderstood disease. Deborah was scared, but she did not waver in her faith because if she trusted the Lord, she would find her way through the fear and be able to manage the pain and live an altogether new lifestyle.

Deborah tried to continue working, but five months after her diagnosis, she and her husband, Rex, made the challenging decision to allow her to quit her job. Being a stay-at-home-mom is something Deborah had prayed to be able to do for a long time, but “Why this?” she wonders, never having imagined it would happen because of her health. Learning to budget differently is just one part of this new journey, but Deborah says, “God has always provided. When I get anxious and start to worry about how we are going to cover this or that, something comes through, and He takes care of us.”

For Deborah Powell, faith is trusting the Lord’s plan even when she’s in so much pain that some days she cannot get out of bed.

Deborah and Rex have three sons, but 11-year-old Derrick is the only child still living at home. Derrick’s world consists of basketball, scouts and homework, yet he has been granted the opportunity to more deeply appreciate both his mother and father.

Derrick has learned to step up to the plate with chores around the house and often does them even without being asked. Deborah tells a story of one day last summer when she was having a particularly difficult day. Derrick not only began the laundry as asked but also switched out clothes between machines. He has a caregiver’s heart, and it appeared once again that day when he urged his mother to rest while he made her lunch, consisting of soup and a sandwich.

He may not realize it now, but he is learning valuable lessons about family, teamwork and obeying the Lord’s call. This child’s life is being shaped for Christ.

The Powells have a 14 year marriage that, with every hill and valley, is strengthened by their hope and trust in the Lord and His plan.

Deborah describes Rex as a patient, understanding man. Above and beyond trials and celebrations within a typical marriage, they have each had to adjust and learn to live with Deborah’s fibromyalgia. How many husbands cook, clean and take the kids to school? “I used to love when Rex and Derrick left the house so that I could clean the entire house in one day. Now, I can get the kitchen clean and be happy with that. (Rex) gladly does whatever I need just because he knows I need it,” says Deborah. Some roles have changed, but they only lead to a deeper understanding of and appreciation for one another.

The Powells weren’t going to church when they married, but the Lord put it upon Rex’s heart one day that they should visit Asbury.

Deborah happily obliged, recognizing this at once to be an answer to her daily prayers that Rex did not even know about. Rex and Deborah joined Asbury United Methodist Church in April 2005.

They were members of Asbury’s Vineyard Community before it disbanded, but Deborah and Rex are not left without a support group from their church. The Vineyard community members continue to be of great strength to one another by communicating regularly and praying for each other. Deborah says that their friends from Vineyard are non-judgmental and help her stay strong in her faith. Deborah and Rex have also become active in the hospitality area on Sunday mornings, and Rex puts his musical talents to use by playing songs like “The B-I-B-L-E” on his banjo and ukulele in the children’s classrooms on Sunday mornings twice a month, occasionally accompanied by Derrick. “During the time we’ve been going (to Asbury), I can see how God has talked to us and worked through us,” Deborah says as she reflects on how her family has grown. In October, Dr. Tom Harrison preached on “Seasons of Life” which really struck a chord in Deborah, who says, “I looked at my fibromyalgia as a new season in my life. I had to throw out what I used to be able to do and accept the things I can do now. That sermon turned my thinking around.”

When she thinks of what she would do if exhaustion and pain were not a factor, Deborah answers simply, “More for the church. But I can’t really think about life without dealing with fibromyalgia, because I have accepted that I will be living with it forever. I try to take things day by day, one week at a time. I’m so thankful for the little moments of being pain free.” God willing, she would love to go on mission trips with Derrick when he gets older, but the focus for today is to support him by cheering for his team at basketball games. Tomorrow is a new day.

Through new and old friendships, a marriage and family built upon the rock, and childlike faith, Deborah has endowed her entire trust in the Lord.

“Trust and obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”

–Trust and Obey, words by John H. Sammis, 1887

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of Jesus, His disciples were taught through principals and parables which are applicable today in the hope that lives are transformed and renewed.

Asbury’s members are hearing the new vision “Developing all generations for significant lives in Christ.” In order to help members fulfill this calling, Asbury offers Disciple Bible Study, an extensive 34-week course focusing on an in-depth study of both the Old and New Testaments. The class is open to adults ranging from 19 years of age and older who have a desire to understand the Bible to a fuller, practical extent.

Dedicated members of Asbury, Robert and Heather Sher, decided to enroll in the course, stating, “We heard about DBS from the promotional videos played during worship. We also had several members of our community take the class in the past, and they spoke very highly of it.”

Heather and Robert Sher

MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN: LEARN AND LIVE OUT SCRIPTURE

Disciple Bible Study: part 1

by Jaime Jurgensen

“…Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

–Matthew 28: 19, 20 Hand selected by Jesus, the twelve disciples were called by God to follow His teachings. Jesus is the master teacher; disciples are those who not only lead by way of His example, but those who take ear to instruction and follow that example. Discipleship requires commitment, accountability, leadership and sound scriptural knowledge with a teachable spirit. Educated under the instruction

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Currently, the young couple are involved in a discipleship community called Covenant. During the winter of 2011, they were encouraged by Jon Odom to pursue deeper relationships within their community. From Covenant, several small groups were formed. The Shers joined Ashley and Brad Cunningham, Alissa and Reid Adams and Anna and Evan Gundy in meeting on a weekly basis.

“Our small group had been together about nine months, and we were eager to try something so highly touted by Tom—getting into the Word.” Heather explains that the group felt compelled to take a closer look at the challenge presented before them.

The solution to the problem came to light during a small group session, inspiring the couples to actively pursue the Disciple Bible Study opportunity.

“We wanted to gain some historical background of scripture, as well as study the scriptures in a structured environment.”

“We had just started a new curriculum, a book called Love Wins by Rob Bell. This book presents a pretty controversial perspective on heaven and salvation in general. Although we enjoyed the thought provoking material, we quickly realized that our biggest weakness was not having the knowledge of the Scripture. DBS became a practical and challenging solution.”

A distinguished method for furthering one’s study of the Bible is to read scripture from a historical point of view. It is only from this perspective that the interpreter better understands scripture in its historical context. This would be the motivation the group needed to delve deeper into the Word. “We wanted to gain some historical background of scripture, as well as study the scriptures in a structured environment.”

A large portion of the course discipline entails intense daily time in the Word. Additionally, the group commits to attending a two

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hour class each week. Having to prioritize schedules, Rob says, “We actually appreciate the structure and consistency of the class. We strive to make each class a priority, as we arrange our schedules for the week. Setting aside a specific night of the week makes it conducive to fulfill the commitment to which we’ve agreed. It is always encouraging to know we will hold one another accountable to attend each week and complete the readings.”

With heavy workloads, prior engagements, service, and family obligations, Heather admits it can be difficult, having sacrificed precious time spent with their children in order to take the class.

The Asbury nursery teachers are a tremendous help. A word of encouragement was given to Heather and Rob by their parents, “You will never have more time than now!” Between the four couples, six children under the age of five experience the nurturing care of Asbury employees. In spite of the business of life, Rob and Heather yearningly anticipate “learning and accomplishing the task of 34 weeks of study.”

Discipleship requires commitment, accountability, leadership and sound scriptural knowledge with a teachable spirit.

Upcoming Bible Classes Disciple Bible Study Taught by Dr. Vaughn Story, this is a 34-week course for adults wanting to study the whole Bible in order to learn what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Each week’s Tuesday and Thursday class times are identical in content. No previous Bible knowledge required.

Disciple Bible Study (DBS) affirms that all the books of the Bible were written so God may speak to us.

DBS emphasizes the wonderful unity of the Bible. The course devotes equal time to studying the Old and New Testaments.

DBS focuses on biblical transformation, not merely biblical information. The course encourages people to examine their lives in the light of the Scriptures and to yield themselves to the authority and transforming power of God’s Word. DISCIPLE invites people to apply the Scripture to their past and present challenges and struggles to be a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ.

For more information on the fall class of DBS, contact Dr. Vaughn Story at avstory@cox.net.

Bible Study Basics Class Starting Wednesday, February 27 A three-week study on Wednesdays at 6:00 pm – February 27, March 6 and March 13. This is a pastor-led study on how to introduce new Christians to Bible study. Pastor Tom Harrison will teach two Wednesdays and Pastor Dick Read will teach one Wednesday. To register go to myasburytulsa.org.

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MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN: INFLUENCE AND INVITE OTHERS

Showing Jesus’ Love on the Mission Field

by Marilyn Glass

Cindy Hill

You would expect a nurse to treat asthma conditions, dispense medications, do physical exams and give shots. But this nurse also mixes concrete and builds concrete walls, cuts steel beams and welds.

And she has taught young people these skills as well. Throw in the extraordinary compassion, love and joy of Christ that exudes from her life, and you will find Cindy Hill, doctor’s wife, mother of two, community volunteer and missions enthusiast.

She doesn’t just support and pray for the missions program, she is actively involved and has logged “over 20” mission trips to such locales as Mexico, Guatemala and Tanzania. And she is looking forward to more. “There is such great need in these areas we visit,” she says, “and the simplest act of service can change lives. For instance, it is amazing to witness someone receive a pair of glasses and actually be able to see clearly for the first time.”

“There is such great need in these areas we visit,” she says, “and the simplest act of service can change lives.

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Besides the opportunity to help meet human needs, the teamwork and camaraderie mean so much to her. “Such a deep spiritual bond develops between you and the other team members on a missions trip,” she notes. “We all face the same hurdles in a strange land and enjoy the rewards of ministering to others.” Despite the villagers’ suspicion and the challenging circumstances she and the team have encountered, they have found God faithful and a “very present help,” Cindy declares. She continues, “We have seen life threatening situations and healing, deprivation and provision, heavy spiritual darkness and miracles because we serve a loving, mighty God.” Cindy and her husband, a cardiologist, have been members at Asbury for 17 years. When they were planning to move to Tulsa from Iowa City, friends recommended the church to them. They checked it out, liked what they found, and the rest, as they say, is history. It has been a good fit for them and their family.

There have been several trips to Guatemala with the youth, and she is so pleased that teenagers are developing an awareness and

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a compassion for the hungry, the hurting and the forgotten. She describes an outreach in cooperation with the local church that dispatched the young people out to various homes in the village.

Loaded with food staples and necessities, they knocked on doors, introduced themselves, and presented the groceries to the families.

More than once, the team members heard, “We did not know where we would get our next meal.” It was a very meaningful moment for those who witnessed the joy and gratitude on the people’s faces. “That will keep you going back,” she comments.

Jordan, their son, is now at Oklahoma State University, but he had the opportunity as a youth growing up at Asbury to be part of many mission trips. After high school, he went with his father to Tanzania a couple of times to reach out to the people of that land.

Daughter Jennifer returned recently from Haiti--her first mission trip--but likely not her last. Her heart was captured, and even in the midst of wedding preparations, she is enthusiastically anticipating a second visit to that poverty-stricken country.

Cindy herself learned missions as a teenager. With a wonderful leader who encouraged her and her friends to become involved, she began to participate in local mission projects in the Kansas City area.

“It was great,” she recalls, “and having once tasted it, I wanted more.”

Besides being available to assist with any health needs the team might have, she has found that her nursing skills have been helpful in other circumstances. She recounts instances when she has stayed with sick kids and other times when she has worked with special needs children. From problem children to hysterical children to children who just need to be loved (“don’t we all?” she asks), she especially delights in just being with the children.

She fondly remembers Miguel, now a teenager and the oldest resident at the orphanage in Guatemala. He was brought to the orphanage as a young boy, and when the Asbury mission team arrived, he immediately bonded with Cindy. Over the years they have developed a close relationship. “Miguel and others like him are exactly the reason I do what we do,” she reveals. “We are so proud of him. He has become a fine young person, and we know God has a wonderful plan for him.”

As a husband/wife, physician/nurse team, Dr. Hill and Cindy are uniquely qualified for the medical missions program. Her schedule has allowed more flexibility so she has been able to get away more often, but sometimes they have been able to go and do medical missions together. They are always so deeply moved by what they see--human beings in great physical and emotional and (often) spiritual despair. Medical care is almost non-existent in the areas where they go. “And the people are so burdened by cares and lack of necessities that they age very quickly,” Cindy observes. “It’s heartbreaking to see their bodies deteriorating so early.”

If there is no clinic available, the team uses a local church and sets up areas for various services, i.e., check-ins, vitals, examinations, dental, visual, pharmacy, etc. Each medical provider is diligent to give the best physical care possible, but they never lose sight of the spiritual need also. Sometimes the best medicine seems to be the individual prayer between a patient and a team member.

There have been heart-stopping moments. Cindy tells of an incident that occurred when the pediatrician had to leave unexpectedly and, in the midst of their regular patient care procedures and treatments, someone suddenly came running up, shouting, “The baby is not breathing.” Expecting to find a dead infant, she and others rushed out to render aid and learned that the child had been dropped onto the floor! But amazingly, he had begun breathing again and was now just screaming at the top of his lungs. After speaking with the parent for a moment, Cindy realized that the baby was crying because he was hungry. The mother confessed that she was unable to produce milk so a helper grabbed fresh formula and filled a bottle so that the mother could begin to feed her little one. Crisis averted. . . just an ordinary day on a foreign missions trip.

Cindy is so proud of the clinic that was built by several groups of Methodist volunteers from around the country. At first, it was just one room with a sheet hung in the center of the room to afford some privacy and to provide meager space for examinations. But now it is a fully functioning clinic that is open three days per week, with a doctor available on those days. There is lodging for the physicians who might need it, and a comfortable house has been built to accommodate the various missions teams that visit.

A highlight for her has been the recent “extreme makeover” on the orphanage in Guatemala, and according to Cindy, they went “all out.” The girls got a “girly-girly pink” room that brought astonished

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“WOW” exclamations and sparkling eyes; the small children’s area was turned into a jungle room graced by life-sized animals from the wild. And there is a “planetarium” filled with stars and galaxies.

For children whose lives are marked by uncertainty and potential upheaval, symbols of permanence are important. In place of the piece of paper that identified each child, wooden plaques that bore the child’s name were made and given to each one. She is especially happy about this small, but hugely significant, gift.

One of the self described “ornery ones,” Cindy (and her cohorts) keep things lively. “We love to laugh and have fun, even on a missions trip, confronted by a very formidable reality,” she acknowledges. “Some of the people we meet and situations we face are so distressing that a prank or joke just seems like a good antidote. And it’s always good to remember that the joy of the Lord is our strength.”

She remembers working in the trash dumps in Mexico alongside people who forage through the garbage to find anything of value to sell--or even to find food. “In those surroundings, thinking about the peace and joy that Jesus brings is so comforting,” Cindy shares.

If she could have one request granted by her Asbury family, it would be that others from Asbury get involved with missions--particularly medical missions. “We have so many gifted medical care providers in our church. I believe they would love the experience, and it would be such a blessing to the needy,” she asserts.

Her own plans include many more adventures in other parts of the world. She hopes to continue for a very long time in hands-on missions work wherever the Lord might lead her, because, in her words, “It makes my heart smile.”

She hopes to continue for a very long time in hands-on missions work because, “It makes my heart smile.”

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Bob Skaggs

MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN: STEWARDSHIP OF SKILLS AND RESOURCES

Obedience.

What Does God Require of You?

by Harlan Ford

Some outward and visible marks of a Christ centered life are personified by a long time servant at Asbury, Bob Skaggs.

With God’s grace, Bob is someone who has developed his faith, gifts and skills to become a model of sharing his faith, obedience and living a life of balance, generosity and stewardship.

If you know Bob now, you will find a person who actively wins trust and finds opportunities to share his faith. You will see a person who believes strongly that a heavy intake of God’s Word is key to growth. You will also observe a person practiced and confident. But he was not always this way. How did he come to be the man we now see? What allows one to struggle and overcome the absence of abundant life?

Bob’s story is note-worthy for all of us seeking to break through the constraints on our spiritual growth.

Obedience decades in the making A native of Bartlesville, Bob describes himself as ordinary but two incidents resulted in transformations during his life. Bob grew up in a loving, churchgoing family but as a young man, his faith did not have a lot of traction with him. His youthful insecurity resulted in his moral compass pointing a bit south. Bob had a “there but for the grace of God go I” moment with lifelong consequences which shook him to his core. At age 19, a foolish frat prank came close to causing a serious car accident. Obviously, this shook him up. At about the same time, God began working in his father’s life, and his father introduced him to some motivational resources which included scripture references. Bob tells of opening a Bible for the first time in his life to check out the existence of those passages and experiencing the magnetic draw of God’s Word in his life.

He secretly took the frat house Bible to Campus Crusade meetings and studied it while he listened; he heard and understood. He requested God’s salvation and guidance and eventually gave his life to Christ.

Fast forward though college, courtship and marriage and ending up in Tulsa at Asbury in 1982. Bob’s Christian walk developed and grew with the

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encouragement and mentoring of many, many people at college and Asbury during this time.

How can growth be an issue in a Christian’s journey?

Despite being in an encouraging environment, committed Bible study, lots of great fellowship and discussion, cracks and stress fractures began to show in his life.

Bob was working hard and trying his best, but exhaustion, stress and depression popped out of nowhere and found a foothold in the craggy depths of his being. Even though he was in his prime, he felt his life being sucked out of him; the abundance of Christ’s promise was missing. He wondered how this could be when he was doing everything right.

Bob felt a lot of time pressure from raising a family, trying to be a good husband and dad and expanding his business. Because of this, he realized that sometimes his Bible study was just a thin veneer instead of being the real study that he needed.

For Bob, this depression turned out to be the leavening for his second transformation, the active ingredient which pulled him to a new level of commitment.

“How am I robbing You?” “In tithes and offerings,” was the reply. Verse 10: “‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse…Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.’”

Bob was not tithing and knew he must obey this test. When he wrote a check for 10 percent, it was in the context of financial insecurity and a need for the money for his business and family.

It didn’t make rational sense, that is until the freedom and joy of walking in obedience came.

After his initial “let’s see how this works” act of obedience, things changed for Bob. He experienced many examples where financial opportunities came out of the blue. More acts grew out of his first obedience until it integrated into habit.

Bob remains true to his commitment and continues to share his faith and story. He is both blessed and a blessing to those who know him.

God’s Word Speaks Somehow, out of the dark recess of this inner turmoil, God’s Word spoke. Bob describes how the now familiar Mathew 6:33 tugged on him. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.”

This was a dilemma. Bob asked himself, “Am I really seeking His kingdom first?” Is that really the condition for peace?

The transformative moment came when he resolved to end the dilemma by seeking God first. He committed to immerse himself in God’s Word and disciplined himself to prioritize his study, even if it meant getting up at 5:00 am, a time which did work for him.

John 14:15-21 also spoke to him: “If you love me, keep my commands…Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me…I will show myself to them.”

Bob prayed “Where am I disobedient? Lord, please show me.”

Malachi 3:7-10 then spoke to his heart: “‘…you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty.”

“How are we to return?” he wondered. Verse 8 says: “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.”

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Kristi and Megan Self

MARKS OF A CHRISTIAN: UNITED WITH THE BODY OF CHRIST

Confirmation Class for Mother and Daughter

by Kristi Self Editor’s note: Kristi attended confirmation class here at Asbury when she was a teenager. Her daughter Megan is now in confirmation class here at Asbury.

My mom and I (Kristi) moved to Tulsa from Colorado when I was 12 years old after my parents were divorced. It was a very hard time for us. My aunt and uncle attended Asbury and encouraged us to visit.

That was back when Asbury was at 61st and Sheridan and Bill Mason was the minister. We immediately loved the church. I remember Bill having such a kind face and I loved listening to him sing. My mom encouraged me to attend the confirmation class with my cousins. It was a great experience. I learned so much about the Christian faith and what it means to be a Christian. I remember feeling closer to God and closer to the group of kids that went through confirmation with me.

Now, almost 30 years later, I’m so happy that my daughter Megan is getting the opportunity to go through the same confirmation class at Asbury. It feels like coming full circle. Working on the weekly assignments has allowed Megan and me to have an opportunity to study the Bible together, which is something we have never done before. She is really enjoying the class and has learned so much.

She just seems happier when she leaves class. She has several good friends taking the class with her and has loved getting to spend time with them in a setting outside of school. She feels like this class has helped her to discuss her faith more openly with her friends. She is most impressed by the fact that the group leader, LeeAnn Taylor, asked the girls in her small group to sign a contract regarding group discussion guidelines. Some of the guidelines

were: everyone has the freedom to say what they feel without being judged; nobody is allowed to talk about what is said in the group outside of the group. These group rules have made Megan feel more comfortable about talking openly in the group. She is looking forward to officially joining the church.

To me, Asbury represents the Body of Christ because the members of Asbury function as one and share a common bond with each other.

I think that “united in the body of Christ” means that every individual person in the church is important but when united together they make up a greater whole.

It is very beneficial to me to have other Christians around me because being a Christian helps me to think more about what I’m doing and how I’m living my life and to make better choices. I want to surround myself and my family with others that have the same beliefs. Being a Christian has given me strength to get through the tough times. Knowing that God is listening is very comforting.

When I feel stressed or anxious from the busy day and all that comes with being the mother of three wonderful kids, I just pray for peace and I feel calmer. Sometimes I pray for a hot bath…Is that wrong?

Megan shares her experience: “Being a Christian has helped me through some hard times. Praying and asking God to help me with my problems and knowing that He is listening feels good and safe.”

Asbury represents the Body of Christ because the members function as one and share a common bond with each other.

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Advice from Couples Married 50 Years or More compiled by Charlene Giles, Director of Marriage Ministries

In honor of Valentine’s Day, we asked some couples with experience what advice they had to give about keeping love alive.

Gwen & A.B. Steen, 62 years

Nevin & Dick Loerke, 59 years

Married at 19 and 21, we had no thoughts of what it took to stay married 62 years. However, we had great role models in both our parents who gave us a sense of responsibility. We have never spent money we did not have or know how we would pay for a purchase.

• Respect each other.

• Fight fairly.

• Keep the conversation line open.

• Do things together but have separate interests also.

• And Dick says to let Nevin have the last word.

When our first child was born, we decided that If A.B. could earn enough to support us, Gwen would not work outside the home.

This was a blessing that positively impacted our children’s lives.

Bottom line is that love and respect for each other gets the job done.

Awilda & Dwayne Godsey, 59 years • Every day, eat a hearty breakfast of “keep your sense of humor” with a helping of “don’t take yourself too seriously.”

• When you get home, hang your ego up with your coat as you come through the door.

• Remember, keep your sense of humor.

• In a discussion – argument—always think your spouse might be right. And remember, keep your sense of humor.

• Always let your spouse have the last word in an argument.

Think about this—short arguments. And keep your sense of humor.

• Try to be calm at all times, especially in an argument. This could drive your spouse crazy. Keep your sense of humor.

• Most of all, do a tremendous amount of praying to our Lord, asking Him how to stay married for more than 50 years, and then listen for His answer.

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Pat & Ron Thomson, 59 years • • • • • • • • •

Share God’s love.

Hug often.

Kiss frequently.

Love and enjoy people and friends.

Hug often.

Be a role model for your kids/grandkids/great grandkids.

Hug often.

Support each other, your church and church community.

Did we mention you should hug often?

Celeste & Gary Zarley, 59 years Pastor Tom speaks a lot about youth programs. My wife and I are living proof of the value of these programs. When I was a senior at Central High School, I was interested in sports. At the time, I was very small and could not compete in school sports. There was a small Baptist church in my neighborhood that I walked by every day.

There were very active church league softball teams in the city; I went to church to play ball.

TIDINGS, FEBRUA RY 2 013

At one of the youth sessions, I met a pretty 17 year old student from Will Rogers High School. We dated for awhile, and I enlisted in the Air Force in September of 1951. Two years later, we were married at the ages of 19 and 20.

The rest is history. On March 28 of this year, it will be 60 years of marriage. We go out occasionally. We argue some and still love dearly.

Susie & Jim Barrett, 53 years We have been married 53 years. We learned from the beginning “to act justly, love mercy and to walk humbly with God.” Also to attend sporting events together, and fish together.

Jan & Ed Hines, 56 years • • • • •

Be considerate of one another.

Make large decisions together.

Keep God at the center of the marriage.

Enjoy activities together.

Honor the commitment made in the marriage vows.

Barbara & Giles Gere, 53 years • Having the same priorities: God, church, each other, family, friends, home.

• Keeping a good sense of humor • Biting your tongue on occasion.

Shirley & Paul Hockett, 58 years Love, respect and encourage each other, always.

Ginny & Chuck Scott, 52 years

Margaret & Dan Slagle, 55 years • Never give your wife a vacuum cleaner for Christmas!

• Keep a sense of humor. Laugh even if situations are not funny.

• Mutually love and trust God…and each other.

• Respect each other’s different projects and opinions, and do it genuinely, not begrudgingly.

• Always be co-care givers… hand-in-hand.

• Give to each other, not 50% but 101%.

• Laugh, laugh and hug a lot.

• Believe that you should be joined at the heart, not necessarily at the hip.

• It’s gotta be love when….per Chuck, “when she tries ‘calf fries’ and sits through rainy football games with me” and per Ginny “when he takes me to a Dave Brubeck jazz concert and eats broccoli with me.”

Donna & Harold Brantley, 53 years

Vesta & Dean VanTrease, 52 years

We were in high school together and always have been the best of friends. We never have gone into another day without saying “I love you.”

There is nothing that we can’t talk about to each other.

• Share core values of faith and family, and share life’s adventure with a sense of humor.

• 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 is a wonderful guide.

• Choose a great spouse and live a long time.

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Donna & Wade Floyd, 51 years

Nancy & Jim Jones, 50 years

Remember you are two people, not one, and there will be differences of opinion. Take time to communicate because if you ruin your partner’s happiness, you have pretty much ruined yours also. True love will get you through all the events of life (happiness, sorrow, joy, success, failure, etc.). You must maintain the love.

• First we believe that marriage is spiritually binding. God is a partner.

• Support one another.

• Be forgiving.

• Say “I’m sorry” and mean it.

• Express appreciation.

• Communicate openly.

• Always be faithful.

• Be honest.

• Make sacrifices for those who depend on you.

• Have one-on-one prayer times.

• Say “I love you” often.

• Hug often.

• Be committed.

• An unhappy season in your marriage doesn’t mean it’s over.

• A happy marriage requires more maintenance than your car!

• As Tom says; “Lower your expectations and raise your commitment.”

Barbara & Don Wright, 51 years Success in marriage starts with love for each other.

Another essential is respect for each other as persons.

A couple can have very different personalities but can get along happily if they accept and respect each other. Having outside interests whether social, recreational, professional, or as volunteers add an important element to a relationship and a home. This encourages having a focus on making a difference in the lives of others and adds purpose for the individuals. A mutual faith in God is so vital in a relationship and helps stabilize a home when there are problems or rough times.

Bonnie & Bon Wynn, 50 years In order to stay married for 50+ years, you have to be committed to the marriage.

Then you can work through the inevitable bumps in the road.

Couples Married 50+ Years as of February 10, 2013 50 years

Bill & Doris Shackelford Arlin & Nancy Mullins

H.L. & Florence Moore Jim & Nancy Jones John & June Hawkins Jon & Bonnie Wynn Jim & Sally Hickman Don & Patti Cooper Kent & Jeanette Young Chuck & Kathy Purser Don & Carol Martin Tom & Hazel Robinett Jerry & Dixie Mitchell David & Maria Cowan Dave & Gail Knox Al & Sharalea St. John, Jr.

51 years

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Don & Pat Hardin Charlie & Ann Hearne Howard & Virginia Hensley Sig & Jan Schwier, III Mike & Louise Borden Ron & Sue Baucom Wade & Donna Floyd Don & Mary Herrold Don & Kathy Winder Roger & LaVonne Fleming Phil & Jan Lakin

Don & Barbara Wright Jim & Marilyn Aud Clark & Judy Walton

52 years Chuck & Ginny Scott Ed & Ann Parker, II Ken & June Scoggins Ray & Barb Boone Richard & Linda Polk Jim & Danys Self Randy & Fannie Edens Jim & Christine VanderLind Roger & LeAnn Metcalf Jim & Linda Pat Colgan

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Perry & Yvonne Partney Jim & Ann Schulz Dewey & Oralene Sherbon Warren & Lydia Reichert Dean & Vesta VanTrease Burton & Freddie Howard Tom & Pat Hailey Bill & Jane Hamilton Jess & Mary Mitchell David & Shirley Wilkinson

53 years Lou & Gloria Lasiter Truman & Linda Rachels Jim & Sue Allison

Lee & Tony Flowers, Jr. Ron & Jackie Carter John & Betty Jo Vogel Ed & Leslie Lusk Harold & Donna Brantley Cecil & Jan Burnett Glen & Charlene Ravens Charlie & Jeanette Sessom Jim & Judy Parker Carl & Sue Richards Gary & Ruth Beatie Dick & Billie Corley Jim & Susie Barrett, Sr. Bill & Janet Knight Bud & Dianne Mathes Giles & Barbara Gere Dean & Jessie Cox Donald & Chris Hoose

54 years

Bob & Jean Dalton Larry & Mary Metz Clifton & Lamyrle Cox Don & Barbara Thornton Wayne & Sammie Kendall Rollo & Liz Brasuell Jim & Nancy Harrison Stanley & Shirley Dean Ronald & Phyllis Allison Leonard & Mary Stubbs Marold & Patty Lohrenz Rey & Betty Spence Carl & Novella Willis Jim & Maxine Dempster David & Patty Thomas Milton & Patricia VanDerwiele James & DeWanda Humphries John & Jo Keil Tom & Lou Ann Costello Ed & Jan Hines Arlyn & Shirley Daering

Bruce & Carolyn Nixon Larry & Judy Lairmore Bob & Dorothy Beck LaVerne & Jean Reed Bill & Jayne Mason Bob & Mary Ann Charles Charlie & Janet Johnston Charlie & Sue Archambo Vic & Liz Schock Robert & Joy Long Gene & Barbara Graves Gary & Dorothy VanFossen John & Judy Marquis Bob & Jimmie Dozier

57 years

55 years

Jerry & Johnna Himes Vernon & Maralee Jones Roger & Joyce Clark Ted & Pat Kelly Ben & Joy Weddington Bill & Phyllis Taylor Merle & Marylou Howell Ralph & Marion Daugherty Howard & Joanne Ledbetter Ron & Sue Shook Paul & Shirley Hockett Fred & Nancy Gardner Jim & Norma Morrison

Harley & Jackie Hinson Bill & Rosalie Veatch Joe & Beth Limes, Jr. Cal & Doris Brusewitz Dan & Margaret Slagle Rick & Vi Bowers Doyle & Shirley George Al & Ruth Sowards Jerry & Colleen Sharp Dale & Pat Davidson Rex & Dovie Edgar Wally & Sue Maurer Russ & Norma Jones

56 years Larry & Jeri Myerley Bill & Joan Matzdorf

Don & Ruth Bauer Warren & Wilda Burdine John & Shirley Ann Smith Mel & Mary Pearson Bill & Dorothy Kisselburg Bob & Beverlyn Summers Bill & Dottie McKie Ed & Rita Lenfestey

58 years

59 years Gary & Celeste Zarley Gordon & Lois Vetal Vic & Roberta Hairston Walt & Marion Neary Frank & Betty Schemm

Al & Lu Seiter Dick & Nevin Loerke Ron & Pat Thomson Dwayne & Awilda Godsey Bob & Mary Lynn Milam Ross & Ina Vrooman Cleo & Frankie Warren Floyd & Vida Bruntzel Ken & Carmen Finch

60 years Bob & Martha Carpenter Wayne & Betty Crockett Fred & Joanne Setser Bill & June Carr Dick & Gwen Mohler Monroe & Jan Reece Gene & Mary Ellen Whiteford Dean & Marilynn Smith Lee & Oneta Roles Dick & Marcia Marshall Bill & M.A. Kohl Dean & Regina Daniel Jim & Pat Miller Bob & Gladys Murphy

Harry & Lois Robbins Otis & Nell Osborn Jim & LaRue Coover Wally & Barbara Westervelt Gordon & Chris Gresh

64 years Delbert & Nell Pool Howard & Vera McCloud Jimmy & Nancy Swindler Tom & Elizabeth Diehl Bill & Janene Jones Dick & Joan Link Tom & Evelyn Porter

65 years Jack & Doris Bruin Rudy & Alice Jane Gorishek Murrel & Helen Cowherd Phil & Jean Essley, Jr

66 years

61 years

L. Laneer & Jean Ham Edison & Audrey Jeffus

Bob & Donna Keener Richard & Darlene Baker Bob & Wanda Stotts Bill & Mary Kirwin Jack & Pat Compton John & Eddie Middleton Bill & Donna Ritchie

67 years

62 years Alden & Sarah Miller Ray & Ada Miller Clyde & Mary Johnson Richard & Geri Dixon David & Janet Wehrenberg A.B. & Gwen Steen Jerry & Imogene Headley Jim & Betty Jane Bailey Ray & Betty Gordy

63 years

Sid & Maxine Lee John & Joanna Neely Ted & Virginia Wellendorf

68 years Bill & Shirley Parkinson

69 years Vic & Betty Goodknight Al & Ruth Meyer

70 years Gene & Irene Bond

Tom & Lillie Hardcastle Joe & Mary Pottorf Gene & Betty Hobson Warren & Roberta Roberts

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Scouting at Asbury, 2012

by Bob Walter

Ten years ago, Asbury Boy Scouting was down to five boys and a few dads who were keeping Troop 10 alive long enough for the last of the boys to earn their Eagle Scout, and then they were going to let the charter lapse.

They had tried to engage the congregation in general and the pastoral staff in particular and felt like they had hit a dead end.

Then along came a small group of older men, whose boys, if they had any, had graduated from scouting, but whose love for and dedication to the precepts of scouting remained strong. Together those men formed a committee that is now known as the Asbury Scout Leadership Committee (ASLC) as a subcommittee of Asbury United Methodist Men.

Scouting is now an effective and efficient tool of Asbury missions.

One of those men moved a Venture Crew to Asbury from another church that was granting a place for them to meet but had no interest in supporting the Crew in any other way. The ASLC decided that if they were going to create a sustainable scouting program at Asbury, they needed to start with a Cub Scout Pack that would eventually

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feed boys into a Troop and then into a Crew. One of their first steps was to convince a young mother that her husband would be an ideal Cubmaster for their son. Once she was convinced, her husband Jeff had no choice but to take the job. The older men of the ASLC contributed experience and advice and were richly rewarded because in no time at all, a core group of young parents came forward and launched Pack 10 with about a dozen boys.

At the same time, their prayers were further answered when two experienced scouters named Martin and Darrel assumed the positions of Troop Committee Chair and Scoutmaster and kickstarted the formation of a totally new leadership and membership for Boy Scout Troop 10. Now for the first time, Asbury had a Pack for boys 7 to 10 years old, a Troop for boys 11 to 17, and a Crew for young men and women 14 to 20. From that last desperate gasp of the old Troop 10 to the new full program of Pack, Troop and Crew 10, Asbury UMM have fostered one of the most successful scouting programs in Oklahoma. The three units involve over 170 families and that is just the beginning of the story. Adults from Asbury serve in Pack, Troop and Crew leadership roles. They also serve in large numbers on several Scout District committees. Several

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serve in Council leadership roles including the first ever Religious Emblems Coordinator position. Some even serve in national scout leadership positions and helped design the new national facility for the Jamboree.

Asbury scouts are active, and Asbury scout leaders are serving and leading in district, council and national shooting sports, merit badge fairs, council camps, climbing programs, C.O.P.E., boating, SCUBA and many other disciplines and activities. And scouting at Asbury is not just a consumer of Asbury missions. Scouting is now an effective and efficient tool of Asbury missions. The boys serve at various meetings, projects and dinners for Asbury’s prison ministry, men’s ministry, senior adult ministry, 2nd Saturdays, veterans ministry and more.

Troop 10, far from consuming resources, recently made a large cash contribution to the church budget, to show their gratitude for the prayers and support the church had contributed in the past.

Asbury is stepping up also. The children’s ministry has for many years sponsored a God and Me and God and Family program where Cub Scouts and other Asbury boys and girls can earn the

religious medals for their scouting organizations. This year, the children’s ministry has thrown their program open to Cub Scouts from any church and any denomination so a lot more boys will now have a chance to earn their religious medal and move forward in their walk with Christ. One or more members of Asbury will be addressing the first ever national training for Boy Scout Religious Emblem Coordinators to be held at Philmont National Scout Reservation this coming August. Classes for the high school age religious medal, the God and Life program, will be taught at Asbury this fall. In June, during VBS, Asbury’s 6th grade boys and girls spent the day at the Boy Scout facility south of Broken Arrow.

Last February, Asbury hosted the first annual Tulsa District United Methodist Men’s fundraiser for B.S.A. In addition to funds and time, Asbury members have contributed boats, mobile homes and other property to scouts. Troop 10, far from consuming resources, recently made a large cash contribution to the church budget, to show their gratitude for the prayers and support the church had contributed in the past.

Asbury Scouting has walked back from the precipice and is again providing an exemplary opportunity for boys to experience scouting and for scouts to participate in Asbury’s many missions, while the men and women of Asbury provide great examples and leadership to the scouting community.

People who want to learn more about Scouting at Asbury can call Asbury at 918.492.1771 to get connected with the Asbury Scout Leadership Committee.

BOY SCOUTS SPAGHETTI LUNCH The Asbury Boy Scout Foundation, sponsored by the United Methodist Men, invites you to its annual spaghetti lunch. Come enjoy spaghetti with bread sticks, or chili and crackers, salad and desserts with your family and friends. All proceeds benefit Asbury’s Boy Scout programs.

• • • • •

Sunday, March 10, 2013, 11:00 am CLC and Venue $5 per person, or a maximum of $20 per family of four or more Tickets may be purchased in advance on Sunday, February 24 and March 3, or the day of the event at the door Pre-purchasing tickets greatly appreciated to help with planning

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Karen Archambo McNutt

Don’t Count Me Out

by Karen Archambo McNutt

I

absolutely love the game of softball. I played the game from age 7 until I was 18 years old. I could always call a friend or a youth leader and play catch for hours. I played on the Asbury girls’ slowpitch softball team with a bunch of wonderful Christian young ladies and strong Christ-minded coaches. We had a great time!

most important is spiritually. God loves us so much that His Son died on the cross for us. You must have Jesus.

Remember, I was 18. Well, things changed a wee bit. Now I am 45 years old; I am in a wheel chair. I know, “It’s so sad” and “poor lady.” I’ve heard it all, but let me tell you a story.

Third is trusting God to take care of all your needs. The way I see it, if God does not heal you on earth, He will take care of it before you reach the gates.

It took years to find out what was happening. I couldn’t walk without falling down, my left leg would shake, and I would tire very soon after the day began. My mother and I flew to Arizona to go to the Mayo clinic. The diagnosis from the head neurologist was progressive hereditary spastic paraplegia or, in simpler terms, degeneration of the spinal cord. Is there a cure? The short answer is no. I got married nine years ago, and my dad walked me down the aisle. Today, he would be pushing me in a wheel chair.

God blessed me for thirty-six years riding bikes, walking, going places with my friends, a mission trip to Mexico, and let’s not forget playing softball!

Do I blame God for this disease afflicting my body? No. Do I believe in healing? Yes. I believe healing happens three fold. The

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Second, you have to be strong and keep your head straight.

Depression can take your life.

My Jesus has things for me to do now even if I am in a wheel chair.

So don’t count me out. God doesn’t!

If you don’t recognize who I am, I will tell you that I come to church with my husband Mitch and my service dog Jada.

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The Triumphant Two

by Dan Mazzei

W

e ask the Lord to give us, or those we love, a promised land. We envision spiritual, relational, academic or even financial success when submitting such prayers to heaven. We entrust the request to the favor of God and close with a confident amen fully expecting a gift from above. The danger is we then often forget the lessons of scripture that have taught us to fight for such gifts.

turn also became unwilling to fight. This refusal to fight for God’s gift, this sin of inaction, was devastating. It saved them from possible death in battle but resulted in loss of their gift. They didn’t achieve what they could because they were afraid of losing what they had. We should be slow to judge, however, since many of us are guilty of the same. Their disobedience condemned them to 40 years of wandering within reach of their home, without permission to enter.

For example, consider the rich and fertile land bequeathed to the Hebrews. This gift from God satisfied the hopes and prayers amassed during decades of oppression. It became their promised land, a place where they would be both free and prosperous. The familiar Exodus narrative details how our Father used ten divine plagues and the parting of a sea to miraculously deliver them from the most powerful nation on earth and provide passage directly to their new home, a new home inhabited by fearsome giants. Giants who had to be conquered in battle.

There were two who were not afraid. These two, these triumphant two, divinely understood that the promise land had to be paid for in blood. Like the rest, they asked for and were given a special gift from God. Unlike the rest, they were not afraid to fight for it. They knew we often have to fight our giants to secure the gifts of heaven.

They knew God’s timing had been delayed by the free will of others. They knew when the 40 years had passed, it would be time for war. Thus when the time came, they fought the giants and won.

When Hebrew scouts observed the giants and realized a bloody conflict was required to displace them, ten were understandably terrified. These timid ten were unwilling to fight for God’s gift. Even worse, they imbued their lack of confidence to the people, who in

Like the triumphant two, we must understand that following Christ requires action and that action must occur in God’s time. Like the triumphant two, we must understand that God’s gifts are often secured in battle. Since we serve the King of battle, let us be people of divine understanding. Let us be like the Triumphant Two.

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GRANDPA JOHN

A Child’s Gift

by John C. Westervelt

R

iley and Piper, twin sisters, are in my Tuesday-Thursday older 3’s class at Asbury. Their mother Jennifer teaches young 3’s across the hall. It was the week before Christmas when this family walked down the hall at Asbury before class began. Piper was carrying a green sack with yarn for a handle. As she handed it to me, she said, “This is a Christmas present from Riley and me.”

I could tell from the expression on Jennifer’s face that she wanted to tell me more. I asked. She began, “The girls and I were shopping in Hobby Lobby for gifts for Miss Jan, Miss Sue and you. We had looked for a while when Piper said, ‘We need to get Grandpa John a Christmas tree for his new house.’” (The children knew I had moved to Crestwood at Oklahoma Methodist Manor.) Jennifer continued, “Piper picked out a Christmas tree and held it up for her sister and me to see. We agreed that the one-foot tall tree with tiny ornaments of Jesus, an angel, a lamb, a donkey and a shepherd was just right.”

At my new residence, I sat the tree beside my stained glass Jesus and Mary on a 16-inch round maple table. Earlier I had put a lighted ceramic church on one side of the TV and a gingerbread house with a green roof and a red chimney built on a Kleenex cube on the other side. In the opposite corner of the living room, the nativity scene that Nelda’s mom brought to Nelda and me from Israel was sitting on three levels of stacking tables. With my Christmas décor in place, I felt comfortable opening my residence to Crestwood neighbors at an open house on the Wednesday before Christmas.

One of the highlights of my Christmas was a visit at ten in the morning on Christmas Eve. The twins’ older sister Sophie had been in my class two years ago. Sophie, Riley and Piper, along with Jennifer and her husband Judd arrived in the Crestwood lobby and called me. I met them. Sophie, being the oldest, got to push the 2 on the elevator button.

Before picture taking with the girls, I led the family on a tour of my apartment so they could see I had lots of space in my retirement home. They liked my stained glass windows. The one in the blue bedroom has birds. The gold and burnt orange window in the bedroom turned into an office is made of geometric shapes that fill an engineer’s mind.

The girls studied the baby Jesus hanging on the tiny tree as well as the one that was a part of the nativity scene in the opposite corner of the room. Both images of Jesus are at eye level for Sophie, Riley and Piper.

I asked for help getting a picture of the girls. Jennifer arranged her daughters around me sitting in the corner chair. Judd captured the four of us on his cell phone. For me, both on camera and in my mind, Sophie, Riley and Piper will remain forever at this loveable age.

Other stories at www.jwestervelt.com

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RECIPES OF THE MONTH

Scouts Campfire Recipes Not cooking over a campfire? Then just your oven and make these recipes.

Baked Chicken And Rice Ingredients

Preparation

• 2 cups long grain rice • 1 can cream of mushroom soup • 1 can cream of chicken soup • 1 cup sour cream • 1 small onion; diced • 1 stalk celery; diced

• • • • • •

3 cloves garlic; minced 1 Tbs. worcestershire sauce 2 cans water 8–10 pieces of chicken 2 tsp. poultry seasoning salt and pepper to taste

To a 12” Dutch oven add rice, soups, sour cream, onion, celery, garlic, worcestershire and water. Stir to mix. Season chicken with poultry seasoning and salt and pepper then place over top of rice mixture.

Cover Dutch oven and bake using 10-12 briquettes bottom and 14-16 briquettes top for 90 minutes.

Serves: 8-10

Easy Peach Dump Cobbler Ingredients

Preparation

• 2 (30 oz.) cans sliced peaches; drained • 1 yellow cake mix; dry • 1 can Sprite or 7Up • ice cream of your choice

Into a 12” Dutch oven add peaches and spread out. Pour cake mix over peaches then pour the soda over the cake mix. Stir to mix completely. Place lid on oven. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour using 12 briquettes top and 12 briquettes bottom. Rotate oven and lid every 15 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream.

Serves 8-10.

Variation: Use the whole can of peaches, juice included, and stir in 1/3 cup of instant tapioca. As the cobbler cooks the tapioca will absorb the juices and make a nice bubbly cobbler.

Monkey Bread This is a great item to make with your Scouts, kids or grandkids. It helps them learn that cooking can be fun to make and definitely fun to eat.

Ingredients

Preparation

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 2 cans (16.3 oz each) Pillsbury® Grands!® Homestyle refrigerated buttermilk biscuits • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, if desired • 1/2 cup raisins, if desired • 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar • 3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

Heat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease 12-cup fluted tube pan with shortening or cooking spray. In large -storage plastic food bag, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Separate dough into 16 biscuits; cut each into quarters. Shake in bag to coat. Arrange in pan, adding walnuts and raisins among the biscuit pieces. In small bowl, mix brown sugar and butter; pour over biscuit pieces. Bake 28 to 32 minutes or until golden brown and no longer doughy in center.

Cool in pan 10 minutes. Turn upside down onto serving plate; pull apart to serve. Serve warm.

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OPPORTUNITIES

Asbury Opportunities MYASBURYTULSA.ORG

GENERAL INFORMATION BREAKFAST

Come enjoy fellowship with Asburians along with fresh donuts, bagels, biscuits & gravy, sausage, eggs, fruit, and cereal.

• Served from 7:00–9:00 am in the CLC • $4 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP

8:00 am 9:15 am 9:15 am

11:00 am 11:00 am

Mason Chapel (Traditional Communion) Sanctuary (Contemporary) CLC - Open House Worship (Acoustic Worship, Casual Setting) Sanctuary (Traditional) Venue (Modern with sign interpreter)

RECYCLING

Recycle unwanted paper products. Three bins are available, located in the south and east parking lots.

Recycle aluminum cans by bringing them (in plastic garbage bags) to the wire collection cage located up the short driveway towards the east side of Asbury’s main church building. Thank you for helping to support the Boy Scouts.

DOORS OF ASBURY POSTERS ARE AT THE WELCOME CENTERS...

FREE! Suitable for framing.

SUNDAYS FOR CHILDREN AND STUDENTS

6 Weeks–Pre-K K–6th Grades 7th, 8th & 9th Grades 10th, 11th & 12th Grades

This website is available to all members as a way to update your contact information, register for events, give online and indicate ministries you would like to receive communication from. Make sure you have an account and check it out.

8:00, 9:15 and 11:00 am 9:15 or 11:00 am 9:15 and 11:00 am 9:15 am only

ADULT DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES

Adult Bible study, belonging, and serving together • Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 and 11:00 am • Options during the week - Wednesdays at 6:00 pm SURGERY OR HOSPITALIZATION SCHEDULED?

Be sure to let Asbury know ahead of time by calling the church receptionist at 918.492.1771 so your pastors can be in prayer for you. When you enter the hospital, please designate Asbury as your church. The after-hours pastoral emergency line can be reached by calling 918.492.1771, selecting option 6, and leaving a message for the pastor on call.

CDS OF TOM’S MESSAGE

CDs of Tom’s message of the day are available immediately following the worship service for $3 in Connection Corner.

NEW ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY

The Asbury Library is a wonderful resource. Thank you to all who continue to contribute books to our Library.

OJT (OVERCOMING JOB TRANSITIONS)

Unemployment isn’t forever. You can help by telling people about OJT (Overcoming Job Transitions) which meets on the third Tuesday of each month.

• Tuesday, February 19, 6:30–9:00 pm • Community Life Center (CLC) • Contact Russ Knight at OJTJobs@gmail.com

ACCESS HANDS OF LOVE SIGN CHOIR

• Sundays, 5:30–6:30 pm, Family Room FRIENDS IN CHRIST COMMUNITY

Bible-based class designed for developmentally disabled young adults. Focus on discipleship, service and mission.

• Sundays, 11:00 am, Room 1507

OVERFLOW PARKING AT UNION HIGH SCHOOL

Asbury’s Sunday overflow worship parking area will return to the Union high school parking lot (located along Mingo Road towards the north corner of their campus). Asbury shuttle service will operate continuously each Sunday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm.

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BIBLE STUDY Check out our adult Bible studies listed in our RoadMap brochures found at all welcome centers or online at www.asburytulsa.org/ AdultMinistries/Roadmap.aspx.

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OPPORTUNITIES

MILITARY CONNECTION

CARE AND SUPPORT S.M.I.L.E. (SINGLE MOTHERS IN THE LORD’S EMBRACE)

Join us for a DVD series and book entitled “21 Principles of a Healthy Single Mom.” You will learn to apply specific, workable guidelines so you can flourish spiritually in the midst of overwhelming circumstances. Each principle/video session is self-contained, and you may begin attending at any time.

• Third Thursdays, 6:00–8:45 pm • Parlor • Child care provided • $12 for book • RSVP to Janet at 918.688.3392 or asburysmile@ymail.com HEALING HATS/BALL CAPS

An Asbury ministry created to provide hats to cancer patients who have lost their hair. “Home spun with knots of love, woven together with help from above!” Simply knit, crochet or sew a hat or decorate a ball cap of your choice and drop it in the collection box located near the northeast entrance. Find more information in the literature rack attached to the collection box. In addition, the following groups meet regularly for fellowship, while using their creative ability to make hats: • Crochet Group –– Second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30–8:00 pm –– Room 1506 –– Contact Sue Fisher at healinghatsmin@aol.com or 918.455.2816 • Ball Caps (If you can cut and glue this is for you!)

–– Fourth Tuesdays, 9:30–11:30 am –– Room 1508 –– Baseball caps and decorating items available –– Contact Sue Fisher at healinghatsmin@aol.com or 918.455.2816 VISITS TO ASBURY MEMBERS

Asbury has a group of volunteers (Asbury Connection) who regularly visit people who are homebound, in nursing homes or in assisted living facilities.

• Contact Lisa at 918.298.9014 or lisa_dalt@sbcglobal.net PRAYER CARD MINISTRY

Send cards with God’s encouraging words and our prayers to those who are ill or going through hard times. If you would like to receive twice-monthly cards or know someone who would like to receive cards, please send name and address to Gwen at grmohler@aol.com.

• Usually meets first and third Mondays at 9:30 am • Room 1508 • Contact Gwen Mohler at 918.258.5479 or grmohler@aol.com

Please join us in praying for our troops in harm’s way and their families. Periodic care packages and monthly encouragement cards with God’s Word are sent to Asbury-related military personnel. The Prayer Ministry also covers them in prayer. Send complete name and address to: • Jo VanDeWiele at 918.459.0888 or Gwen at grmohler@aol.com VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

• Design patriotic cards for Asbury-related military. Cards can be designed at home and drawn by hand or on the computer.

Call Jo VanDeWiele at 918.459.0888.

• Design encouragement cards for prayer card ministry.

Cards can be designed at home and drawn by hand or on the computer. Calligraphers and help with mailing also needed.

Contact Gwen Mohler at 918.258.5479 or grmohler@aol.com.

DIVORCE RECOVERY

For those suffering from the early, highly emotional stages of divorce and separation trauma.

• Tuesdays, 7:00–8:30 pm • Room 1335 • Child care available • Contact Malia Miller at 918.494.9596 or malia.miller@ sbcglobal.net DIVORCE REBUILDING

For those ready to rebuild their lives after separation or divorce.

• Thursdays, 7:00–8:30 pm • Room 1335 • Child care available • Contact Jim Small at 918.697.4220 or divorce-rebuilding@ cox.net MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

For family members or caregivers of people affected by a mental illness.

• Usually meets the fourth Thursdays from 1:30–3:00 pm • Parlor • Contact Linda Lytle at 918.298.2707 or lllytle@wildflower.net ASBURY BEAR BAGS

Asbury Bear Bags with coloring books have comforted young children for many years, but now you may give a Bear Bag with a scripture-based journal included instead! Great for teens and adults. Anyone may deliver an Asbury bear to someone who is grieving. Pick up bags anytime at south security desk.

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OPPORTUNITIES

CHILDREN

HOSPITALITY

Registration forms for all children’s activities are available in the preschool and elementary lobbies.

CORE CHILD CARE HOURS

Parents who are involved in RoadMap classes and/or communities during these core hours will have child care provided for children 6 weeks–12 years of age with no reservations needed: • Sunday

9:00 am–12:00 pm • Monday and Tuesday 8:45 am–12:00 pm • Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 5:45 pm–9:00 pm

We were recently asked, “why don’t you have volunteers holding the doors open on Sunday morning?” The simple answer is we have very few volunteers willing to do it. Most say Asbury is a friendly church, yet we don’t have enough friendly people willing to serve on Sunday mornings when the need is great to welcome folks who have possibly had little contact with people during the week. We need new volunteers to serve in a hospitality role as greeters and at Connection Corner where many people have their first experience at Asbury. Are you one of those friendly people? Contact the church office at 918.492.1771 to volunteer.

MARRIAGE & FAMILY

CELEBRATION STATION

Celebration Station is a 52-week complementary children’s program to Celebrate Recovery. While adults explore topics that bring healing and wholeness, kids discover the same truths in ageappropriate ways through worship, crafts, games and activities.

• Mondays, 7:00–9:00 pm • Faith Zone • Contact Eryn Wallis 918.392.4588 or ewallis@asburytulsa.org SPECIAL VOLUNTEERS FOR SPECIAL KIDS!

Do you have a heart to help children with special needs? If so, the Children’s Ministry needs you to volunteer.

• Contact Dotti Westerberg at dottiwesterberg@hotmail.com or 918.381.0874

DISCIPLESHIP DISCIPLESHIP COMMUNITIES

If you have not yet found an Adult Discipleship Community check out “Community Life” on our website, www.asburytulsa.org, or pick up a brochure at one of our Welcome Centers.

• If you are 20’s to early 30’s, come check out our newest Sunday morning group at 9:15 am in room 1507, “Transitions,” or “Rooted” for married couples in room 2314

THE ART OF MARRIAGE

A fun, edgy video marriage class from FamilyLife. Expect: expert teaching based on the Bible, engaging stories, real-life testimonies, man-on-the-street interviews and lots of fun! Whether contemplating marriage, engaged, or married many years, this is for you. No in-depth sharing with anyone but your partner.

• Wednesdays, February 6–March 27 (will not meet on March 20), 6:00–8:00 pm • Room 2821 • $20/person • Child care available • Facilitators: Pat & Deborah Calhoun • Register online or 918.392.1191 DATES WITH YOUR MATE

ENDOWMENTS Leave a legacy that continues to give forever to a ministry you want to support. There are endowments that support many areas of Asbury’s outreach including children, youth, music, missions, and training of pastors as well as a general endowment. You can easily impact a ministry through your will or a current gift.

• Contact Dwight Yoder at 918.392.1113 or dyoder@ asburytulsa.org

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COUPLE-TO-COUPLE TRAINING

See how you can make a difference in families of the future. Serve as a support couple to an engaged couple. Meet with them to discuss strengths and growth areas of their relationship which are revealed in the results of a relationship inventory. Couples of all ages and remarried couples are needed. Twenty hours of training required. Training starts mid-February. Contact Charlene Giles, 918.392.1145, or cgiles@asburytulsa.org.

A ministry designed to bless and strengthen marriages. Materials from Christian Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) will be taught by certified counselors, then couples have a dinner date (or coffee!) alone.

• Second Thursdays, March–October (except June and July), 6:00–8:45 pm • Room 1502 • Cost $15/date, some scholarships available • Child care provided (75 children max) • Space is limited • Register online

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OPPORTUNITIES

WEEKEND TO REMEMBER MARRIAGE GETAWAY

Learn practical skills and Biblical principles to strengthen and reenergize your marriage or prepare you for your upcoming marriage. Hosted by FamilyLife, a ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ.

• March 8–10, 2013, Friday evening – Sunday afternoon • Renaissance Tulsa Hotel, 6808 South 107th East Avenue • More information: pat.calhoun007@gmail.com or go to http://shop.familylife.com/p-2162-tulsa.aspx and use group name, AsburyTulsa ATTENTION ENGAGED COUPLES

If you are planning to use an Asbury pastor to officiate and/or use Asbury’s facilities, be sure to book ASAP to allow ample time for Couple-to-Couple (required premarital meetings).

MEMBERSHIP ASBURY EXPLORATION

Are you interested in membership at Asbury or just want to learn more about who we are? Plan to attend Asbury Exploration. After a wonderful lunch, which is provided, you will enjoy time with our Asbury pastors as you learn about the ministries of Asbury, important United Methodist beliefs and how you can get into the mainstream of our life together at Asbury.

• Sunday, February 3, 12:15–2:00 pm • Community Life Center (CLC) • Child care available for children six weeks through sixth grade • Lunch provided • Call 918.392.1191 to register or register online at www.myasburytulsa.org

MEN HOME IMPROVEMENT VOLUNTEERS

If you are handy with a hammer, like to paint or clean out flower beds, please consider joining our Home Improvement Ministry.

This is an outreach ministry that serves widows and single women of Asbury with minor home repairs and home improvement projects. Commitment is only five times a year, on Saturdays.

• Contact Michiel Conner at 918.640.4382 or michiel0930@ sbcglobal.net to volunteer BOY SCOUTS SPAGHETTI LUNCH

The Asbury Boy Scout Foundation, sponsored by the United Methodist Men, invites you to its annual spaghetti lunch. Come enjoy spaghetti with bread sticks, or chili and crackers, salad and yummy desserts with your family and friends. All proceeds benefit Asbury’s Boy Scout programs.

• Sunday, March 10, 2013, 11:00 am • CLC and Venue • $5 per person, or a maximum of $20 per family of four or more

• Tickets may be purchased in advance on Sunday, February 24 and March 3, or the day of the event at the door • Pre-purchasing tickets greatly appreciated to help with planning MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST

Make plans to join us for a great time of meaningful worship, lifechanging prayer and an awesome big breakfast.

• Wednesdays, 6:30–7:30 am • CLC • Cost is $3 per person; first-time guests are free MATURE MEN’S MINISTRY R.O.M.E.O. LUNCHEON

Are you a “Retired Old Man” who wants to “Eat Out?” If so, then these luncheons are for you! A really awesome bunch of guys meet for good food and great fellowship.

• Meet every second and fourth Friday, 11:15 am • Village Inn (71st and Memorial) • Open to anyone 60 years and up • Contact Bud at bdmathes@cox.net or Jim at robersonjim29@ ymail.com

MISSIONS/VIM 2ND SATURDAY

Looking to serve Tulsa in Jesus’ Name? Join us for 2nd Saturday, January 12, 8:15 am, at Venue, and choose from different local mission opportunities. At 8:45 we head to the ministry sites. Teams work from 9:00–11:30 am, and buses return to Venue no later than 12:15 pm. Individuals and families of all sizes encouraged.

• Saturday, February 9, 8:30 am–12:15 pm • Meet at Venue • Contact Betty Higgins at carevets@aol.com for more information VIM 2013 TEAM SCHEDULE

• February 23–March 2 –– Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction • April 24–May 4 –– Central Asia, Relationship, Teaching, Light Construction • Spring –– Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction • Late May/early June –– Central Asia, Relationship, Teaching, Light Construction • May 30–June 10 –– Estonia, Lighthouse • June 8–15 –– Ecuador, MBS & Construction • June 13–24 –– Tanzania, East Africa, Medical • June 27–July 8 –– Estonia, Camp Gideon, Youth Camp

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OPPORTUNITIES

• July 18–29 –– Estonia, Parnu, MBS & Light Construction • Fall –– Tanzania, East Africa, Construction –– Central, Asia, Relationship, Teaching, Light Construction –– Cookson Hills, Oklahoma, Light Construction • October –– Monterrey, Mexico, MBS & Construction • November 6–10 –– Rio Bravo, Mexico, Medical • Men’s Rio Bravo, Mexico construction teams are April 14–28 and November 13–17

• Available for seventh grade through adults

VIM TEAM LEADER TRAINING

• Selected Sundays, 8:00–9:15 am • Orchestra Room 1510

March 2, September 7, November 2

HANDBELL CHOIRS

• Celebration Ringers (adults) –– Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30 pm –– Room 2506 • Perpetual Light (women) –– Thursdays, 10:30 am–12:00 pm –– Room 2506 ASBURY POWER & LIGHT CO. (PRAISE BAND)

For more information about these exciting mission opportunities, contact Marilene Long at 918.392.1164 or mlong@asburytulsa.org .

For information about the men’s Rio Bravo, Mexico opportunities, contact Jim Furman at jnlfurman@cox.net .

MUSIC For more information on any of the music groups, please contact Cynthia Bedford at 918.3392.1151 or cbedford@asburytulsa.org CHANCEL CHOIR

We sing. We laugh. We share. We love. Come and join us.

• Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00 pm • Choir Room 2706 • Sundays, 11:00 am Sanctuary service • Available for seventh grade through adults.

ASBURY SINGING AMBASSADORS

Join us for a great time of fun, fellowship and singing.

• Open to seniors 55 and over • Tuesdays, 1:30–3:00 pm • Choir Room 2706 CHILDREN’S CHOIRS

Come learn about God through music as we sing, play instruments and musical games.

• Wednesdays, 6:00–6:50 pm • Available for children age four (by September 1, 2012) through sixth grade NEW COVENANT ORCHESTRA

Play an instrument? Come and join us.

• Wednesdays, 6:00–7:30 pm • Orchestra room 1510 • Sundays, 11:00 am, Sanctuary service

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PRAYER ALTAR PRAYER

If you would like someone to pray with you during Holy Communion or immediately following a worship service, please come to the altar rail. A pastor or member of the Altar Prayer Team will be glad to pray with you for your needs – physical, emotional or spiritual, at the altar or in the Prayer Room.

PRAYER ROOM RESERVATIONS

The leadership of Asbury’s prayer ministry would like to remind you that the main facility Prayer Room is open not only to individuals desiring to pray in a quiet, meditative atmosphere but also to prayer groups within communities and ministries. Just call the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589 to reserve the Prayer Room for your group on a weekly or monthly basis.

PRAYER ROOM DAYS AND TIMES

Our prayer rooms are accessible to you at these times: • Mason Chapel and Venue –– Sundays from 7:00 am–12:30 pm, through the interior doors • Main Facility, Mason Chapel and Venue –– Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–9:00 pm –– Saturday, 10:00 am–3:00 pm –– Sunday, 12:30 pm–9:00 pm To obtain door codes, call Pam in the Adult Ministries office at 918.392.4589.

RECOVERY CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Come join this supportive group of people. Hiding any hurts, habits or hang-ups? God never intended for you to live in bondage.

• Every Monday night: dinner at 6:00 pm, worship from 7:00–8:00 pm, small groups from 8:00–9:00 pm, dessert from 9:00–9:30 pm

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OPPORTUNITIES

SENIOR ADULTS

SINGLES

TWEENAGERS PROGRAM AND LUNCHEON

We will begin in the CLC and then walk together to Mason Chapel for an exciting musical program of Broadway, patriotic and Christian music by pianist Linda Shade. Come prepared for audience participation and a fun time. Getting to Know You segment by Nelda Burnett. Lunch $1.00. Donations welcomed.

• Thursday, February 28, 10:30 am–1:00 pm • CLC and Mason Chapel BEST CHOICE SAVE-A-LABEL

Save those labels! The Tweenagers are collecting Best Choice product labels and would like your help. Please turn in the UPC portion (proof of purchase) from more than 2,500 Best Choice items, including canned goods, boxed foods, eggs, cheese, etc. Best Choice products can be found at local Reasors, Food Pyramid and Warehouse Markets.

Bundle your labels and drop them off at the south desk to the attention of “Tweenagers.” That’s all you have to do to help us help others.

ADULT VOLLEYBALL

Do you enjoy playing recreational volleyball, mixed in with a little bit of competitiveness? Then come join us for a few hours of exercise, fellowship and fun. All skill levels of play are welcome.

Good sportsmanship and positive attitudes are required. It’s free and you do not have to be a member of Asbury to participate.

• Every Sunday, 6:00–9:00 pm • Gym • Questions? Contact Doug at 918.607.0830 COMMUNITIES

• Sundays, 9:15 am – New Beginnings Class, Transitions (mixed singles/married) • Sundays, 11:00 am – Ambassadors for Christ, Footprints (ladies only), Salt & Light, Christ Centered Singles, Single B.A.S.I.X. • You are always welcome to join any other communities that are not “Singles Only,” as most are a mix of singles and marrieds.

STUDENTS

ADULT GAME DAY

Attention all adults! How would you like to get together on a regular basis with a wonderful bunch of fun adults and play cards, dominoes, or whatever board or card game you choose? Bring a friend and stay for as long as you like!

• Every third Thursday, 1:30–4:00 pm • Room 2821 SENIOR WALK IN THE GYM WITH HIM

SBM JAMAICA STUDENTS AND LEADERS

• • • •

Sunday, February 24, 12:30–6:00 pm Venue MANDATORY training Bring $3 for lunch

SBM JAMAICA PARENT MEETING

All senior adults are invited to join us for power walking, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. Come give it a try.

• Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:30–9:00 am • Gym

All students required to have at least one parent at this meeting • Sunday, February 24, 5:00–6:00 pm • Family Room in the main church building

SENIOR SIT AND FIT STRETCHING CLASS

• • • •

SBM GUATEMALA STUDENTS AND LEADERS

All senior adults are invited to join us for a time of stretching, coupled with lots of fun and fellowship. No high impact workout here. We take it nice and easy.

• Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00–9:30 am • Gym SENIOR ADULT MEAL & MOVIE

If you’re 55 years of age or over, our monthly meal and movie day event may be just the “ticket” for you! We get together at a different Tulsa restaurant each month, and then head off to see a “first run” movie.

• The dates and times vary according to the movie selected, but those who express an interest will be contacted a few days ahead of time so they can make plans accordingly • For more information or to sign up for the call list, contact Sally Wood, sally77onestick@cox.net

Sunday, February 24, 12:30–6:00 pm Venue MANDATORY training Bring $3 for lunch

SBM GUATEMALA PARENT MEETING

All students required to have at least one parent at this meeting • Sunday, February 24, 4:30–5:30 pm • Family Room in the main church building 10 11 12 SUNDAY MORNINGS

Join us every Sunday morning for an in-depth Bible study and discussion.

• Sundays, 9:15 am • High school room

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OPPORTUNITIES

10 11 12 WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

Every Wednesday night we come together for a time of connection and worship. Our desire is to explore who God really is and how our lives matter to Him. • Wednesdays, 7:00 until around 8:30 pm • Venue • Hang around for pizza afterwards

WORSHIP 8:00 AM COMMUNION SERVICE

• • • •

Mason Chapel Traditional service Communion is served Dr. Tom Harrison preaches

WOMEN 9:15 AM CONTEMPORARY PRAISE & WORSHIP

UMW FEBRUARY LUNCHEON

“Forced Labor-Debt Bondage-Commercial Sexual Exploitation.”

These are the different faces of Human Trafficking. Mark Elam, Executive Director of OATH, Oklahoma Against Trafficking Humans, will share with us how big this problem is in Oklahoma and the work of this organization through awareness, action and prevention. Scripture: Proverbs 11:21.

• Thursday, February 7, 11:30 am–1:00 pm • CLC • Lunch $8.00 • No reservation necessary HOME IMPROVEMENT WORKDAY

This outreach ministry serves widows and single women who are Asbury members with minor home repairs and home improvement project. If you are in need of help and qualify, just pick up an application at the south desk, fill it out, and return it at least ten days before the scheduled work day. A volunteer from the H.I. team will contact you and make arrangements to get the job done!

• Saturday, February 16 WOMEN OF THE WORD

9:15 AM OPEN HOUSE WORSHIP

• Community Life Center • A relaxed atmosphere with engaging worship led by Dub Ambrose and team • Dr. Tom Harrison’s message is simulcast with an occasional live sermon from another pastor 11:00 AM TRADITIONAL SERVICE

• Sanctuary • The Chancel Choir, the New Covenant Orchestra and various vocal and instrumental ensembles offer a variety of styles of music • Dr. Tom Harrison preaches 11:00 AM MODERN SERVICE

A slate of varied instructors will teach on different passages from God’s Word. Join us on this new adventure among our women as we explore new vistas with new teachers!

• Every Wednesday 10:00–11:00 am • Room 2818 • No cost • Various Teachers • Child care not available • No registration, come whenever you can

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• Sanctuary • Contemporary music • Time of prayer and the message will all carry a prevailing theme for the morning • Dr. Tom Harrison preaches

• Venue • Rich blend of ancient and modern worship, led by Chris Cleveland and team • Sign interpreters for the deaf are offered • Rev. Todd Craig preaches

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Marriages, Births and Deaths MARRIAGES

DEATHS:

• Ivie Marie Blaylock & Nathan Dennis Hopkins married 11/30/2012

BIRTHS • Edna Jeanette Funk born 11/28/12, parents Terry Funk and Trisha Harford • Natalie Anne Eldridge born 12/5/2012, daughter of Chris & Amanda Eldridge • Wesley James DePue born 12/16/2012, son of Stephen and Beth DePue • Carsten Lee Cooper born 12/18/2012, parents Corbin & Jamie Cooper

• Bette Harvey died 11/22/2012, mother of James C. Harvey • JoAnna Newman died 11/24/2012 • Barbara Nelson died 11/24/2012 • Paul Veatch died 11/24/2012, husband of Melissa Veatch • Elizabeth McBay died 12/15/2012 • Harold “Barney” Welch died 12/17/2012, husband of Kay Welch • William “Bill” Curry died 12/19/2012, husband of Shirley Curry • Robert “Bob” W. Flanagan died 12/22/2012, husband of Mary Flanagan

Milestone Anniversaries 50 YEARS

MILESTONE WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

• Bill & Doris Shackelford 02/02/63 • Arlin & Nancy Mullins 02/09/63

Bill & Doris Shackelford 02/02/63

Email your upcoming Milestone Anniversary (5, 10, 15, 20, etc.) to Carolyn Schutte at brucars2@cox.net or call 918.451.1559.

Arlin & Nancy Mullins 02/09/63

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

New Members

Mark and Becca Bearden with Shelby and Callie

Adrian and Teri Ann Dewendt with Ryan

Phyllis Kott

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Carole Lee

Helen Chen

John and Janet Crouch

Matthew and Kelley Hoke with Emily and Drew

Susan Littlefield

Steven and Cindi Renard with Caleb

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Craig and Pamela Hill

Sabrina Johnson with Makayla

Dorothy Swindler

Spring Break Missions 2013 “Bring it!”—that’s the Spring Break Missions theme this year. Taken from Isaiah 49:6, the Message version, ends with the phrase, ”… so that my salvation becomes global.”

That’s why we bring ALL of ourselves, gifts, talents, and resources, not just a part, but ALL! This is the call of missions as well as the kingdom life—to “Bring It.”

Help Us Take It

The Asbury youth need your help! Every year hundreds of lives are developed to become significant in Christ by attending the Spring Break Missions. Even if you can’t attend as a leader, you can help by donating or signing up for the Youth on Mission Prayer Watch. Make checks payable to Asbury, and be sure to write “Spring Break Missions” on the memo line.

Thanks again for your support!

Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID Tulsa, OK Permit #2439