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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have five beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, and Emma. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this
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GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
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Contents M AY 2 0 1 8
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk 6 Always Faithful by Mike Gurganus
GoodNews for Kids 8 Finish the Race Well by Linda Ray Center
GoodNews on Money Matters 10 The $1 Million Dollar Car by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men 12 Uncommon Valor by Dr. Greg Collins
GoodNews for Women 14 Enemies
by Madeline McFarland
GoodNews for Mothers 22 The Value of a Special Woman by Kenneth Ware
GoodNews for Health & Fitness 24 Power in the Blood by Evan Tyler Fox
GoodNews for Teens 26 I See You
by Paula Deal
GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk 28 Healing Wounds. Changing Lives. GoodNews for Everyone
30 The Cost of Paying Attention
GoodNews Cover Story 18 Celebrating Success at Life Care Center of East Ridge
GoodNews for Everyone 32 Familiar Pain
GoodNews for Parents 20 Sometimes God Has To Write in the Sky
GoodNews for Everyone 34 The Letter
by Bill McGinnis
6
by Micki Ann Harris
by Matthew Macaulay
18
by Arlene Ledbetter
32
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
®
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Always Faithful
W
by Mike Gurganus
hile viewing the family crests from ancient Europe one notices that it is not uncommon to see the words “Semper Fidelis”. Probably, as Americans, our most common sighting of that phase is found in the “simper fi” motto of the United States Marine Corp. “Simper Fidelis” is a Latin phrase that means "always faithful" or "always loyal". This phrase also identifies the faith of those who follow our Lord, Jesus Christ. To fully appreciate faithfulness we need to understand that it is a loving characteristic of our God.
Faithfulness has duration. In some ways “always faithful” is a bit of a misnomer. If one is not always faithful we then must ask if that person is faithful at all. For example, if I were to ask you if your best friend was faithful to you and you said, “Well, sometimes”, then I may have doubts regarding his or her faithfulness. We might be a bit shocked if a wife was asked about the faithfulness of her husband and she replies, “Yes, usually”. We all understand that faithfulness is not just a moment in time, but a characteristic of one’s life. Faithfulness without duration is lacking in meaning. It was the apostle John who wrote, “It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth” (3 John 3). Faithfulness is our partner as we journey through life.
Faithfulness also has depth. It was also the apostle John who penned the words of Jesus to the church at Smyrna in the book we call Revelation. He wrote, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev 2:10).
6 // May 2018
About The Author
The apostle Paul tells us that “God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful” (1 Corinthians 1:9). Again, in that same letter he says, “And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear” (1 Corinthians 10:13). And, it was the great spiritual leader Moses who wrote “Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands” (Deuteronomy 7:9).
My mind goes to the old religious song, “Deep and Wide”. Our faith is to be wide enough to go with us each day and deep enough to allow us to offer our lives for Christ. True faithfulness will lead us to one day hear the words of Jesus as he says, “'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord” (Matthew 25:21).
Mike Gurganus has served as the preacher for the Ringgold Church of Christ for the past 25 years and is a graduate of Harding University. He and his wife Nancy have four daughters and eight grandchildren.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
Finish the Race Well
“I have competed well; I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)
M
by Linda Ray Center
any schools conduct their annual field day in May.
The Bible tells us to press toward the goal for the prize
A certain buzz is in the air with students talking
of the upward call of God. The goal is the mark, the victory
about the possibilities of playing sports and holding
ribbon, or the end of the race. The prize is the reward of
athletic contest outside. Kids, parents, and teachers have a blast while soaking up the sun. The goal for field day is not winning but having fun. Let’s jump into action and find ways to make your field day a good day.
victory in Heaven through Jesus Christ. Where do Christian athletes fit in on Field day? They run with love in their hearts.
“The Race”
• Make sure you get plenty of rest the night before. Pray for your team mates and opponents.
Faith
• Eat a breakfast fit for a champion, eggs, oatmeal, or
In Christ
fruit. Avoid sugar at all cost. Your spiked energy will
Show others
fade quickly.
We believe in
• Wear loose fitting clothes, leave your jewelry at home,
Running the race well
and be aware of safety throughout the day. Don’t forget
Take great strides in the chase
sunscreen. Skinning a knee or a sunburned face is not a
Tell your friends about God’s grace
good way to end the day.
Pass the torch of truth and light
• Remember the ole saying “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”? Being called
There’s victory ahead
a name will hurt someone’s feelings. Put yourself in
Press toward the goal
other student’s tennis shoes. Be mindful not to damage
Race together
someone’s self-esteem.
Keep the pace
• Have a good attitude. Positive attitudes are contagious.
Run in
Give a smile away to encourage someone.
Love
• If you don’t win an award, no big deal. Be a gracious team Furthermore, you receive the benefits of better fitness. • Above all, don’t miss the mark. Always concentrate on the positive. Run the race well.
8 // May 2018
About The Author
player. You’re already a winner by being a good sport. Linda Ray Center is retired from a thirty-two-year career in dance education. She is presently an author, poet and passionate speaker at churches, women’s retreats, and conferences. As a Bible teacher, her mission is to bring women into a deeper bond with God, themselves, and others.
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The $1 Million Dollar Car MONEY MATTERS WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
M
y son Caleb is eighteen years old and drives a car
money on the latest toys every year had certainly paid off.
which is worth one million dollars. Allow me to
Now it was Mom and Dad’s turn to “pay up.”
explain. The car is a 2002 Nissan Infiniti which
At age sixteen, Caleb had started working a part-time
was fourteen years old when we bought it. Luckily, the car
job after school, and we had explained that we loved him
had only sixty-six thousand miles on the odometer at the
enough to give him his “manhood”—meaning, of course,
time he purchased it at age sixteen. When Caleb was around
that he would be solely responsible for paying for his own
eight years old, we explained to him (and to his five-year-
car insurance, gas, and maintenance. I pointed out that
old brother Samuel) that if he wanted a car when he turned
the nicer and more expensive the car, the higher monthly
sixteen, we would make him a deal. We would agree to
insurance premiums he would be paying out of his own
“match” whatever money he had saved by that time. If
pocket. And then our son surprised us in the most amazing
he saved nothing, we would give him precisely nothing.
way. After he’d looked at a few cars of various prices, one
Around that same time, I taught my boys about the stock
day he came to us and said he had decided to buy that 2002
market and how they could use money to invest in shares
Nissan Infiniti which would cost seven thousand dollars.
of companies in the hopes that the money would grow over
“Dad,” he said, “you’ve explained to me about investing
time. The lightbulb went off inside his young mind, and the
and the magic of compound interest and how money grows
boy began saving every nickel he could from doing chores
over time. So I think I’ll just use my money to buy the car
and from birthday and Christmas money. By age nine, he
and then I can take your matching money and invest that in
began buying shares of one of his favorite companies, Walt
a stock index fund for my retirement.” I think I might have
Disney; later in middle school he bought some Apple stock,
wept with joy right there. He was listening to his old Dad,
some Microsoft, some Google. By the time he neared his
after all. And the lessons had stuck. So let’s do the math. He
sixteenth birthday, his investments were worth over seven
took our seven thousand dollar matching funds and invested
thousand dollars. Great, but what had we gotten ourselves
it in a low-cost stock index fund with Vanguard. That seven
into? But true to our word, we were tracking him over the
thousand has already grown to over eight thousand, and
years and had saved up another seven thousand dollars to
compounded at ten percent annually (which is about what
“match” his money for his car. A fourteen thousand dollar
the market has historically averaged over the past century),
car, in my opinion, is quite a nice ride for any sixteen-year-
it will be over one million dollars by the time Caleb reaches
old. My first car as a teen cost nine hundred dollars, and
age sixty-eight. So that car really is worth one million dollars
the engine blew out on me after a few months, leaving me
to Caleb. I think the spiritual application of this story is
stranded. This was one lucky kid, I thought. Of course, as
evident: by sacrificing present desires for a greater goal
Ben Franklin reminds us, “Diligence is the mother of good
through regular discipline, we will be rewarded. Ultimately,
luck,” and his years of regular saving instead of blowing his
our Heavenly Father will reward our sacrifice and discipline
10 // May 2018
if we trust Him and follow His Word.
Gò0dNews for Men
by Dr. Greg Collins
or a very large portion of my life, I have lived under the influence of many mighty men and women of valor coming home from the battlefront of war. I first want to say to all the men and women who have served our country faithfully, whether in times of peace or times of war, thank you. We salute and honor all of our veterans, past and present. In the scriptures, we find many heroes of the faith. We find many instances and stories of great men and women of valor such as Rahab, who hid the spies of Israel, or Samson the man who would slay many with the jaw bone of a donkey. Maybe we talk about Moses who would face down a mighty pharaoh or how about Paul, who even at the peril of his own life would not deny Christ. We can write a multitude of accounts of those whose lives have exhibited uncommon valor in their time. To those men who are called by God as the spiritual leaders in our homes, there lies the potential for uncommon valor in us. I have found in my life following Christ, the hardest place to stand for Jesus is among those who know us the best. One of the most difficult places to stand for the truth of God’s word and what is right is among those who see our failures and shortcomings. The problem we face is our definition of uncommon valor. We believe that this uncommon valor is found in few people. We believe that there are only a few who, in difficult situations or circumstances,
12 // May 2018
can muster up the courage to go forth and walk in uncommon valor. The truth is, the real definition of uncommon valor, is that it is a quality found within that comes to surface despite the circumstance and situation. Most heroes will say they never planned on being a hero. Most will say that they didn’t know that character trait was within them until the need arose. See, those who become heroes do so not because they know what the outcome will be, but that it is more important for them to do something rather than not to do anything at all. Clearly, we are living in a time where men who love God need to stand up for truth and not be afraid to let their light shine before men, even if those who see that light are the ones who we know the best. It takes courage to share your faith; it takes courage to stand for truth and what is right, despite our failures and shortcomings. Shall we do nothing? I think the words of Paul are fitting here: “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Rise up, and press on. It will take courage and uncommon valor, but greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.
About The Author
F
Uncommon Valor
Dr. Greg Collins THD, CSL, BRV. He has spent 22 years pastoring in West Virginia and Georgia. From TV and Media Ministry to large venues and crusades Dr. Collins has ministered the gospel of Christ around the world. He currently serves as a Chaplain for Amedisys Hospice and is a member of Abba’s House Church in Hixson, TN.
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Gò0dNews for Women
Enemies
re you your own worst enemy? Recently, I was reading in the book of Psalms and kept coming across phrases such as “arise against my enemies,” “bring them to their knees,” “humiliate them,” and “bring them shame and disgrace.” Understanding that King David lived in a time of great wars and wondering how these passages in Psalms applied to me, I asked the Lord, “Who are my enemies?”
To which He answered, “You are your greatest enemy.” I have been dwelling on this thought for some time, trying to examine why I am constantly working against myself. Whether it is dieting, cleaning house, or starting a project in which, I know the Lord wants me to play a part, I seem to procrastinate or to find a way to excuse my lack of action. Apostle Paul had this same struggle and wrote about it in the seventh chapter of Romans. “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.” As Paul comes to the end of this discussion, he comes to the conclusion that his actions are caused by nothing else but the sin that dwells within him. James also expresses in James 4:17, “Therefore, to
14 // May 2018
the one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.” Why am I sharing this with you? I am sharing because, I believe, I am not in this battle alone, nor can I win it alone. There is something to be said for comradery. What if we turned the tables? What if mighty women of God started becoming who they were destined to be instead of continually falling prey to their own doubts, fears, or laziness? What if we decided to chase after the “God dream” that is placed inside each of us with the same tenacity that we compare ourselves to others? Maybe it is over time that we start to love ourselves a little bit more. After all, the Bible does say to love your enemies and to pray for those who persecute you. What if we start praying that we will be kinder to ourselves? As we bring our flesh under submission to God’s will for our lives, we can start becoming whom He has called us to be. It is time to put away the false identity we have given to ourselves and embrace who we are as daughters of the Most High. This change will not happen overnight, but I believe, it will happen sooner than you think. Will you join me in this challenge? 1. Determine to intentionally spend time in prayer and allow the Holy Spirit to renew your mind. 2. Claim God’s promises over your life. 3. Dare to dream of something amazing to do for the Kingdom of God. 4. Replace bad habits one at a time with good habits and celebrate small accomplishments. 5. Pray for God to give you strategies to accomplish His purposes in your life. “To acquire wisdom is to love oneself; people who cherish understanding will prosper” (Proverbs 19:8).
About The Author
A
by Madaline McFarland
Madaline McFarland is a self published author, speaker and encourager to families. She has a BA in Christian counseling and 18 years of experience in children and family ministry. She and her husband David write and minister at ignitingfamilies.com and inspire families to serve the Lord with passion, purity, prayer and purpose.
113 OAKWOOD ST. • CHICKAMAUGA, GA 30707 706.375.7247 • OCAEAGLES.ORG
Ringgold Church Directory Baptist Boynton Baptist Church 4093 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-952-1551 Briarwood Baptist Church 26 Ellis Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9177 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 518 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9340 Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle 4994 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4323 Cherokee Valley Baptist Church 1495 Cherokee Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-6220 Christ First Church 1008 N. Beaumont Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-1008 Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-3430 Ebenezer Baptist Church 77 Hackett Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7970 First Baptist Church of Ringgold 105 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2358 Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2382
16 // May 2018
Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9866 Grace Baptist Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736 706-858-0976 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-673-6999 Keith Baptist Church 1573 Keith Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-450-0963 Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-1817 Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-2317 Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4887 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 66 Mount Pisgah Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3031 Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3872 New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3500 New Friendship Baptist Church 3833 Salem Valley Road
Ringgold, GA 30736 New Heights Baptist Church 158 Ooltewah Ringgold Rd Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9838 New Liberty Baptist Church 923 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4754 Philadelphia Baptist Church 1065 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-5683 Pine Grove Baptist Church 46 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-2427 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 7769 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3348 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 422 Poplar Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4461 Salem Baptist Church 1947 Keith Salem Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3907 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 223 Inman Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4814
Church of Christ Cohutta Road Church of Christ 2233 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3884 Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-2820 Church of God Boynton Church of God 1956 Three Notch Road
Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-6300 Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-3599 Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2056
Community Green Pasture Community Church 1008 North Beaumont Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7333 Rock Bridge Community Church 102 Remco Shops Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-279-3175
Full Gospel Yates Spring Full Gospel Church 1300 Yates Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3700
Methodist Boynton UMC 4246 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-2626 Graysville UMC 2331 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9253 Lee’s Chapel UMC 3253 Catoosa Parkway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-9928 Ringgold UMC 162 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4777 Woodstation UMC 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360
Non-Denominational
Battlefield Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-7729 Church of Catoosa 6141 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-9703 Church of Living Faith 7623 Alabama Highway
Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673 Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-637-7100
Presbyterian John Calvin Presbyterian 1176 North Three Notch Rd. Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4115
Seventh-Day Adventist Ringgold Seventh-Day Adventist Church 124 Kittle Street
Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3741 Battlefield Community Seventh-Day Adventist Church 96 Hillman Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-5999
Fort Oglethorpe Church Directory Baptist Anchor of Hope Baptist Church 2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9447 Battlefield Baptist Church 2011 South Cedar Lane Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1316 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-6183 Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0164 First Baptist Church of Ft. Oglethorpe 115 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 New Manna Baptist Church 1337 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-3582 Old Fort Baptist Church 18 Van Cleve Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-2807
Parkway Baptist Temple 65 Stuart Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0325 Tri County Baptist Temple 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843
Catholic
Saint Gerard Catholic Church 3049 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-9410
Church of Christ
Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-2124
Church of God Harbor Faith Church of God 650 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1737
Community
Battlefield Ministries Church 64 3rd Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9090
Episcopal
Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9773
Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1398
Non-Denominational
Battlefield Parkway Church 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-779-6777 Cornerstone Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1957 New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-7799 Ridgeland Point Church 1417 Happy Valley Rd. Rossville, GA 30741 RockPointe Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1957
U P D AT E YOUR CHURCH LISTING
Presbyterian
First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232
Methodist
goodnewscm.com // 17
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residents with an understanding that
has just opened its doors to
process…There is never a dull moment
each person’s needs are unique. They
the community. A skilled nursing
and you learn something new each
understand how important the role of
facility’s first year can be fraught
and every day,” said Christy Manis,
Life Care Center of East Ridge is in the
with uncertainty and challenges, but
director of business development at
community. The care center serves not
Executive Director Robert Hubbart
Life Care Center of East Ridge.
only as a residence for those who can
and the rest of the team at Life Care
Led by Medical Director Dr.
no longer care for themselves but also
Gouge, the skilled nursing and
a bridge between hospital and home
Center of East Ridge are now greeting their first anniversary with enthusiasm, pride and excitement for the future. As a skilled nursing care facility, Life Care Center of East Ridge offers short-term therapy services, skilled nursing, outpatient rehab, and longterm care designed to improve and enhance the lives of the members of our community who are in need of care. “The individuals whom we care for are often at their worst––they're in
18 // May 2018
for those recovering from an illness
every resident and visitor a pleasant
or injury.
experience. The idea was to create
might need is available. For the next year, Life Care Center
“You couldn’t ask for a better
an environment that was caring and
team,” shared Peggy Smith about her
supportive but also fun, relaxing and
of East Ridge is prepared to be the
and her husband Marvin's short-
homelike. If you can imagine a tasteful
premier provider of quality skilled
term therapy experience at Life Care
blend of a luxury resort and a cozy
care and rehabilitation for the East
Center of East Ridge. “It’s like a
home with all the care features you
Ridge community. Higher quality
family. It’s a very wonderful place
might need, you’d be close to what Life
of life should be the goal of every
if you have what we had going on.
Care Center of East Ridge has achieved
community. And Life Care Center
Everyone there went out of their way
this past year.
of East Ridge is determined to help
to take care of us.”
On campus, you can find gourmet
people meet that goal every day.
chef-prepared meals in a lovely dining
“Knowing that what we do has a
proudly unveiled their Rosebud
room, scenic walking paths, peaceful
positive impact on the lives of everyone
wing, which opens up 42 more beds
courtyards, spa-like bathing rooms,
who walks in those doors is extremely
to better accommodate residents
a gazebo, a beauty salon and much
rewarding. I love to see people regain
and patients. The services offered at
more. Private and semiprivate suites are
their lives.” —Christy Manis.
Life Care are broad, going beyond
available during short-stay rehabilitation
standard skilled nursing and short-
for anyone who wants to maximize their
nursing care and short-term
term therapy, from orthopedic and
comfort during recovery.
rehabilitation services at Life Care
Just a few months ago, the facility
neurological rehab to respite services
Life Care Center of East Ridge is
To learn more about the skilled
Center of East Ridge, call 423-894-
and restorative nursing. And since
a place where care and comfort are
1254 and schedule a personal tour of
Life Care Center of East Ridge was
central. With their flexible visiting
the campus.
able to secure a highly trained staff
hours, the campus’s pleasing attributes
in their first year, each patient and
are available to friends and families,
resident will receive the right care for
lending the place a true community
their personal level of need.
feel. The facility puts on many fun
Aside from personalized care and
and exciting events that are open to
short-term rehabilitation services, the
the public. You might forget you’re at
facility boasts many comfortable and
a care facility when you’re there, yet
luxurious amenities intended to give
whatever care a patient or resident
goodnewscm.com // 19
Gò0dNews for Parents
Sometimes God Has To Write It in the Sky ur first (and only) time going to Disney as a family, we had talked to all of our friends who were Disney fanatics. They told us how to make reservations at the resort and the best dinner places around the parks, about the Disney dining plan, about how to ride all the best rides, how to make your dollar go further, what days to do the park hopper, where to see the fireworks and parades, transportation to the park, how to stay late, how to see the characters. These people knew everything. So, with much fear and trepidation I said, “Okay Anita, make the reservation.” My wife did all her homework and made reservations for us. Of course, for the McGinnis clan we have to have enough room to sleep six Anita gets a really great Disney representative on the phone who set us up with adjoining rooms, a reasonable meal plan and park passes for four days all for a reasonable price. We always try to stay positive for our kids. When they are anxious we try to remind them of Philippians 4:6-7, which says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” However, God usually has to remind me, too. On the long drive to Orlando, I started getting anxious. I was thinking, “We are going to get there and the plans
20 // May 2018
are going to fall apart.” I was thinking “Wow, I am so Disney ignorant. What happens if we have a terrible time? I will have wasted all this money and all this time and we didn’t get any closer as a family.” We got to “the happiest place on earth” the night before our first park day. I got a few hours of restless sleep at the All-star Value Resort and the next morning I got up and went poolside to do my regular quiet time. So, in my journal I talked to God about my worries and anxieties about us going to the Disney parks for four days with four kids. Finally, in desperation, I wrote, “Okay God, if this is all going to work out, you are just going to have to write it in the sky.” So, we got in the Safari van and headed to the park. As we were driving into the parking lot, the kids said, “Hey Dad, that airplane is writing letters in the sky.” It said, T.R.U.S.T and under it is said, J.E.S.U.S.” So, the rest of the week, I did. I had that peace that guards your hearts and minds. I didn’t need secret insider knowledge of Disney. All I needed was Jesus Now, whenever I get anxious about anything, my wife and kids say, “Hey dad, that airplane is writing words in the sky.”
About The Author
O
by Bill McGinnis
Bill McGinnis is the minister of education and families at Ridgedale Baptist Church. He has served churches in Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee. His wife Anita is a mom and a Christian Speaker and Teacher. He is grateful to have his 4 children at colleges in Tennessee. He enjoys teaching Bible studies, riding a bicycle, making jerky, and grilling meat.
Church Activities & Events Keith Baptist Church Breakfast/Bible Study
Women - Saturday, May 5th - 9AM Men - Saturday, May 12th - 9AM
Poplar Springs Baptist Church Wednesday Bible Study 6:30AM 422 Poplar Springs Rd Ringgold, GA 30736
New Liberty Baptist Church
Student Ministry - Wednesdays 6:30PM (706) 937-4754
Boynton Baptist Church Donnie Sumner Concert May 6th - 11AM Call (706) 965-6596
First Baptist Church Senior Adult Revival
May 9th - May 11th 11:00AM Call for times (706) 935-2358
Gò0dNews for Mothers
The Value of a Special Woman
W
by Kenneth E. Ware
orldwide, Mother’s Day is honored in different
by a verb, thus implying action (vv.12-27). She is, she does,
forms and traditions. In Thailand, it is honored
she brings, she rises, she plants, she stretches, she girds, she
on the current queen’s birthday. In Ethiopia, it is
makes, she smiles, etc. Mothers, wives, and virtuous women
observed in the fall by singing and holding a large multi-day
are women of action. They are not idle. Neither are they lazy.
feast. On the second Sunday of May, in the United States, it
Quite frankly, they are very productive and proactive. So,
is honored by giving flowers, gifts, cards, or eating a dinner. More phone calls are made on Mother’s Day than any other day of the year. Consumers have made it one of the biggest holidays of the year. In Proverbs 31, King Lemuel (possibly King Solomon) has some choice words concerning the value of a woman, a wife, and a mother. I. She’s a Woman of Great Worth - Proverbs 31:10 First of all, Proverbs 31 is not limited to mothers, but it also speaks of women in general. The Hebrew word for woman is ishshah. It refers to a woman, a female, or a wife. King Lemuel affirms that a virtuous woman exhibits excellence in her moral character. She is like a rare gemstone that’s hard to find. Rubies are different than diamonds. A diamond, known for its color, carat, cut, and
give honor to the mother, wife, or woman in your life. For the
clarity, reflects a gorgeous outer glow that mesmerizes its
woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised (v.31).
spectators with irresistible charm. On the other hand, the
A Special Acrostic for a Special Mother
world’s most valuable ruby is called the Sunrise Ruby. Considered amongst the rarest and most expensive of gemstones, it is known for its natural beautiful blood pigeon red color. Though diamonds reflect external beauty, rubies radiate an inner glow that leaves one speechless. Mothers, wives, and virtuous women are rare commodities. Like a Sunrise Ruby, they are rare gemstones in the world that radiates an internal natural beauty that is priceless and far
Matriarch – Strong powerful senior woman of authority and respect (Pr. 31:10-31). Outpouring – “She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy” (Proverbs 31:20). Teacher – “The words of King Lemuel, the oracle which his mother taught him” (Pr.31:1). Honor – “Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her…” (Pr.31:28).
above rubies.
Equity – “for her price is far above rubies.” (Pr.31:10).
II. She’s a Woman of Good Works - Proverbs 31:12-31
Rare – “who can find a virtuous woman…” (Pr.31:10).
(Pr.31:1). Notice the third person personal pronoun “she” is used 19 times. More importantly, the term “she” is followed
22 // May 2018
About The Author
King Lemuel dedicates an entire chapter to women. That is because his mother taught him the value of a woman
Kenneth E. Ware, M.M., M.A.B.S., M. Div. Pastor of New Sholar Avenue Baptist Church. He and his wife, Tonia, have two children, Kenny and Kaliya. Graduate of Temple Baptist Seminary.
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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
Power in the Blood
“T
by Evan Tyler Fox
here’s power, - power, - wonderworking power - in the blood - of the Lamb.” Like many classical hymns, its lyrical content is
a product of a biblical principle. Ephesians 1:7 reminds us, “…we have redemption through [Christ’s] blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” This is the essence of the Christian’s salvation. However, it is no arbitrary coincidence that through blood we have newness of life. This spiritual
Digestion
It is estimated that digestion requires ten percent of
your daily caloric intake. For the average 2,000 calorie diet 200 calories will be used for digestion. Just to put it in perspective, a 25-minute jog burns about that many calories! Needless to say, more digestive work requires more energy and oxygen, thus requiring more blood. Ever get sleepy and sluggish after eating? Trouble concentrating or fighting heavy eyelids?
principle is reflected through
A simple tip is to try eating
nature in our physical life
less or eating lighter foods.
also. The blood is the current
This will require less
of life, the medium through
digestion, saving energy
which oxygen and nutrients
and providing more blood
are provided to the entire
for brain-work.
body. In today’s article we
Exercise & Breathing
will explore the importance of
Simply put, the more
improving blood circulation.
your body moves, the
What to Wear?
more your blood moves.
We all know how good
Exercise not only helps
it feels to remove shoes,
with conditions such as
loosen belts, or slacken ties,
high blood pressure and
at the end of a long, hard day.
high cholesterol (which
It’s nice to get comfortable
also impact circulation), but
after feeling so restricted,
exercise is also indivisibly
but because dress can affect circulation, our health can be affected also. There are two primary dangers with how clothing relates to circulation: 1) clothing that restricts circulation, and 2) clothing that stagnates circulation. In an age of increasingly tight fashion and professional attire, even with healthy blood, our wardrobe could end up costing us more at the doctor’s office than what we fork out at the mall. On the other hand, circulation is more free and efficient when the body is warm. Being well and evenly covered, especially in chilly rooms or during winter, promotes blood circulating to the extremities rather than
linked with the respiratory system. More blood pumped equals more oxygen needed to go in that blood. Taking the stairs, walking to a colleague’s office instead of calling, deep breathing, staying well hydrated, and (for the go-getters) doing pushups or jumping jacks, will quicken the blood and perk you up. As you begin this endeavor to improve your health through improved circulation, always remember that it is because Jesus was willing to lose His life, to shed His precious blood, that you and I can enjoy health and everlasting life.
wardrobe and see how you can make the most of your appearance without hindering circulation.
24 // May 2018
About The Author
pooling in the torso. Take a moment to evaluate your Evan Tyler Fox, orginally from Greenville, Tennessee, is the Health Promotions Liaison for Health Made Simple, a Christian health club serving Chattanooga. For more information about how Health Made Simple can serve you, visit: www.health-madesimple.com.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
I See You
“You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you…” (John 15:16). by Paula Deal
I
t had been a great day of teaching from the seashore
cast out the legion of demons. He cast the demons into
of Galilee at Capernaum. Large crowds gathered there
2,000 pigs that were drowned in the sea. In an instant, the
to see Jesus. Parable after parable, lesson after lesson,
changed man was sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in
Jesus shared that day. But the day wasn’t over yet. Later
his right mind (Mark 5:15). Jesus crossed over to the other
that night Jesus said, “Let’s go over to the other side”
side of the sea, calmed a stormy night to set this man free
(Mark 4:35). It would be a long night to cross over to the
and completely change his life. No wonder the freed man
other side of the sea. On the other side of the sea were the
wanted to get in the boat and go with Jesus (Mark 5:18).
Gadarenes. Jews in Jesus’s day knew that the other side of
But Jesus told him to go home and tell his friends what
the Sea of Galilee was not a place they should go. There
great things the Lord had done. He did go and tell and all
was pagan and idol-worshipping there. But after a long
men marveled (Mark 5:20). Jesus saw him that day and
day Jesus and his disciples headed out to cross over to the
nothing stood in His way of freedom. Not the distance
other side.
across the sea, nor the storm, not even the demons kept
The night was indeed a long one. The disciples, tired and worn out, were faced with a great storm of wind and
Jesus from seeing this man and setting him free. Time after time, Jesus saw, touched, and healed the
waves (Mark 4:37). In fear and frustration, the disciples
rejected and unclean. Can you imagine what Jesus saw
woke Jesus. They asked, “Do you not care if we drown?”
when He saw her, the woman with the issue of blood,
Jesus simply rebuked the wind and said, “Peace be still”.
after He asked, “Who touched my clothes?” (Mark 5:30-
The wind ceased and a great calm covered the sea (Mark
32). Once she was told by Jesus, “Your faith has made you
4:39). “Why are you afraid and where is your faith?” Jesus
whole,” she was immediately a changed woman! Right
asked. The disciples fear and faithlessness was then turned
there in the middle of the crowd, in the middle of her mess,
to amazement. They asked, “Who is this, that even the
Jesus saw her and made her whole.
wind and sea obey him?” But this was just the beginning of awesomeness they were about to see. As the boat reached the other side they were
Not once, as the storm blew, the demons raged, and the crowd pushed, did Jesus take His eyes off them and He sees you. Dear One, Jesus sees you and He loves you!
immediately met by a wild demon-possessed man from him and spoke, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit.” Just like Jesus spoke and calmed the storm, he spoke and
26 // May 2018
About The Author
among the tombs (Mark 5:3). Without hesitation Jesus saw Paula Deal is a wife, mother of two beautiful daughters and grandmother to two amazing grandchildren. She has been a teacher at Bradley for over 15 years.She attends Crossroads Community Church and is crazy in love with Jesus!
Gò0dNews from the Physician’s Desk
Healing Wounds. Changing Lives.
M
ichael Davis put up with pain from a partially
• Diabetic Ulcers
healed wound on his heel for many years. “I guess
• Non-healing surgical wounds
I just didn’t realize the severity of it,” says Michael.
• Trauma wounds
But when the wound started getting worse instead of better during the height of the Calhoun High School football season, Michael took action. As the offensive coordinator and a longtime teacher at Calhoun High School, Michael couldn’t afford to experience any downtime. “Working in the Calhoun football program, I interact quite a bit with the athletic trainer from Hamilton Sports
• Pressure ulcers • Burns • Peristomal skin irritation and/or ostomy appliance issues • Wounds caused by swelling, cancer, infection, or connective tissue diseases • Other non-healing wounds
Medicine, as well as Dr. Frix,” says Michael. “When I shared my concerns about my heel, Dr. Frix suggested that I make an appointment at Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services.” “A non-healing or chronic wound is a wound that does not improve after four weeks or does not heal in eight weeks,” says John Land, IV, DPM. “Michael’s wound had lingered for nearly eight years before coming to Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services. He’s not alone; many wounds can be difficult to heal and require specialized treatment.” Michael received advanced wound care treatment from a multi-disciplinary team at Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services, including a skin graft substitute placed on the wound by Dr. Land in the operating room at Hamilton Medical Center. “Michael followed the instructions through each step of the treatment process,” says Joan Hughes, department manager of Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services. “Michael’s heel is now completely healed.” “Everyone at Hamilton was so good to me,” says Michael. “Knowing that I was in good hands made the healing process easier on me and my family.” Are you or someone you love struggling with a wound that just won’t heal? Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services is a comprehensive state-of-the-art wound care practice that provides patients with the most recent treatment options in wound care. Dr. Land, Dr. McCulloch, Dr. Pullen, and a specialized wound care team work together to develop and administer an individualized wound treatment plan for each of their patients. Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services treats patients who are experiencing: • Venous ulcers
28 // May 2018
Hamilton’s wound care team works closely with specialists in internal medicine, surgery, endocrinology, infectious disease, podiatry, diabetes education, nutritional services, laboratory services, lymphology, home health care, and radiology for a comprehensive, multi-specialty approach to speed the healing process. Norman McCulloch, Jr., MD, recently joined Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services. Dr. McCulloch is a fellow in Hyperbaric Medicine. This fellowship recognizes his unique commitment and expertise in the highly specialized field of hyperbarics. His medical training was completed at the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in Buffalo, New York. To schedule an appointment with Dr. McCulloch at Hamilton Wound and Hyperbaric Services, call 706.272.6596. No referral is required.* *Please contact your insurance provider for complete details.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Cost of Paying Attention by Micki Ann Harris
W
hen I became a new parent, I was hungry
How much anxiety would slough away if we were
for wisdom and desired to learn anything
to consciously abide and rest in our awareness of Him,
I could to “do it right.” I remember
moment by moment? That He is here. That He is God.
reading a book on one facet of instilling a healthy
That He is good. That He is in control. To hear Him say,
sense of self-worth and esteem in your child. The
“Be still and know that I am God.”
prescription? Just be fully present in their world for at
So, shhhh. Turn down the volume. Look up from
least a half hour a day.
the screens. Take your foot off the accelerator.
The point was to put down all of the tasks,
Brake. Be still. Listen. Pause to pay attention
sit on the floor, look them straight in the eye
to your life. It may be very noisy once you
and play whatever they wanted to play,
stop to listen. There may be a lot of inner
read whatever they wanted to read, talk
chaos and dissonance. But, there is a
about whatever their tiny minds were
stillness to be found, there is a place of
thinking, and to simply be fully
quiet and rest much as is found by
engaged. Seems so simple, but it
a frantic child who is calmed and
was a very difficult thing to do
comforted in its parent’s strong
in reality with so many other
and reassuring embrace. The
to-do’s screaming for
peace found when we are
my attention.
enveloped in the strength
It is the same thing
of Love.
for all relationships,
I am learning
really. You matter to
that prayer is not
me. Therefore, I will
only words and
be fully present to
feelings, but also
you. I want to really
silence, intimacy
see you, hear you,
and knowing. It is
know you. It’s intimacy. I wonder how much we would grow in our own sense of worth, security and identity if we were just
communion. Spend time to pay attention. It will indeed cost you something, but it is an investment with guaranteed returns.
to allow ourselves to be fully present to God, even for
“Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul;
just that prescribed 30 minutes a day. Just cognitive of
like a weaned child with his mother,
His awareness of me, that he sees all of me, hears what
like a weaned child is my soul within me [ceased from fretting].” Psalm 131:2
is spoken and unspoken and intimately knows and loves me. quieted by His affirming delight, secure in His company. If we could say with the psalmist and without fear, “Search me and know me....”
30 // May 2018
About The Author
To be perceived by the glad gaze of the Father, Micki Ann Harris has been active in ministry for 35 years and is currently Spiritual Formation Director at the Chattanooga House of Prayer (ChattHOP), overseeing retreats and trainings held at ChattHOP’s facility. She and her husband Chuck have 4 grown children and reside in beautiful Sequatchie County, TN.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Familiar Pain
“Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.”
ecently I went through a life-threatening, traumatic, and extremely frightening experience. I hadn’t done anything to provoke or deserve the intrusion and as many innocent victims understand, the feeling of powerlessness and fear leaves you with scars and wondering if it’s possible to return to the state of mind and heart that existed before the event.
Innocence is a word that evokes thoughts of purity and right-ness; to me, it’s a word that describes how it was always meant to be. We often use the word to describe the beauty we see in children before they are too far along their journey to be affected by external influences, people, and pain. Pain on the other hand is something we run from, try to avoid, and when we experience it we often shut it down as quickly as is possible. But I want to suggest that we need to get familiar with pain, and not just a general kind of pain, but the very pain that we carry, own, and walk around with every day. Since my experience a couple of weeks ago, I had a very meaningful conversation with a friend. It was
32 // May 2018
helpful and freeing because I knew he had experienced similar life events because of the nature of his job, and had shared some of the same feelings I had. As I sat there and he looked into my eyes, I saw a man that held a deep and true empathy, for he was familiar with my pain. He has allowed himself to become familiar with his own pain so he could be familiar with mine, and that was a precious gift. He said, “I have a choice. I can either allow the sleepless nights and fearful thoughts to make me tired and weary, or I when I wake I can think of many other people that are awake every night constantly living in fear and hopelessness, and pray for them. I now have the opportunity to get familiar with this pain I own.” I’m not suggesting avoiding the pursuit of healing, restoration, and wholeness, but those things rely on us becoming familiar with our pain that we might be living, breathing instruments of healing to those who are running from the pain of their wounds. Let us stop and acknowledge these places of pain in our lives, and invite Jesus, who is familiar with our pain, to come and stand next to us. Then, when we find people with similar wounds, we can stand next to them and allow the Holy Spirit to lead us all into beautiful, intimate relationships that are a testimony of the truth of his grace and healing love. I have little doubt that this is the key to our freedom and return to innocence, because of the power of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. This is the gospel.
About The Author
R
by Matthew Macaulay
Matthew Macaulay is the director of worship and creative development at the Chattanooga House of Prayer, as well as on Staff at the Mission, Chattanooga. Matthew is husband to beautiful Micah and father to Eliana. He’s a worship leader and song writer who moved to Chattanooga from London, UK in 2015.
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic
relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Letter
y mom's life was a blur of pain, doctors, tests, and ineffective medications. At night, she slept fitfully with a board under her mattress. The cause of her suffering: two ruptured disks in her back. A letter arrived from a longtime family friend. I'll call him Neil. He scolded my mother for "the sin that prompted God to send this punishment." He admonished her, “Forsake what you do, lest something worse befall you." My siblings and I were livid, especially my older brother, Leonard. "I'm tempted to climb in my truck and pay Neil a visit,” he said. “I'd like to tell him just what I think of his letter." Though hurt by the letter, Mama wasn't angry. “I feel sorry for Neil,” she said as she tried to find a bearable position on the sofa. “He looks for the bad in people. If he can't find any, he dreams something up." "What are we gonna do about it?" my sister, Debra, asked. "We're going to leave this in God's hands,” Mama told her. “We’ll let Him do what He wants with it." “I'm gonna write a nasty letter," I announced. I was fourteen, a year younger than Debra, and we usually disagreed on everything. Not this time. "Debra is right. We've got to do something." "I have done something," Mama said. "I've forgiven him. Not because he asked me to. Not because he deserves it. Not because I feel like it. I've forgiven him because God tells us to forgive. We won’t discuss this again." And we didn't.
34 // May 2018
Mama slowly improved and eventually returned to her favorite pastime, digging in the dirt and transforming our yard into a flowering oasis. One afternoon, I found Debra on the sofa, a letter in her hands and a smile on her face. I asked, "What’s that?" "A letter from Neil's wife," Debra responded. "He is in the hospital with three ruptured disks!" I grabbed the letter to see for myself. "Ha! God sure knows how to handle things!" "Girls," Mama interrupted, "This isn't funny. Neil is in an awful lot of pain." Mama kept a variety of greeting cards on hand. She addressed a sympathy card to Neil. For years I told and retold the story of God's judgment on Neil for his mean letter. One day it hit me: I blamed his suffering on the sin in his life, the very thing he had done to my mother. Ever heard someone tell a joke and then cringed when he or she butchered the punchline? That's what I had done. Instead of emphasizing Neil’s letter, I should have focused on my mom's response. My mother did unto others the way she would have them do unto her (Matthew 7:12). She overcame evil with good. She forgave as an act of obedience to God. "Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that crushed it” (Mark Twain). About The Author
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by Arlene Ledbetter
Arlene Ledbetter holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Dalton College in Georgia. She has written adult Sunday school curriculum and contributed to five Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Visit her at www.arleneledbetter.net.