May 2015

May 2015

Complimentary

Gò0dNews Christian Magazine

Cleveland

• Coping with Change p. 6 • Are You Too Busy? p. 14 • Redneck Slaw p. 42

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Writers

Reverend Karyn Bogert Pastor Samuel Burger Andrew Lee Ashley Smith Beth Henderson Craig Gray Craig Thompson Danielle Jennings Esmerelda Lee Jonathan Dobbs John Garrod John Thomas Kelly Hixson Kelly McDonald Kendra Steveson Mark Wells Mindy White Richard Gamble Robert Green Shawn Brooks Shell Underwood Tracie Smith William Lamb

About Us 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 three beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, and Andrew. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.

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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Editor

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Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Phone #: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

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Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS� basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Contents 10

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6

Coping with Change

by Reverend Karyn Bogert

GoodNews for Kids

8

A Special Gift for Mom

by Danielle Jennings

GoodNews on Money Matters

10 What’s Yours Should Be Mine!

by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Him

12 Are You Too Busy?

by Pastor Samuel Burger

GoodNews for Her

14 Created to Stand Out

by Ashley Smith

GoodNews for Parents

20 A Note to Harried, Frustrated, Overworked Moms

by Craig Thompson GoodNews for Life

22 Turning Troubles into Tools

by Beth Henderson

28

CATCH Ministry

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

24 Consistency

by Shawn Brooks

GoodNews for Teens

26 Finishing Strong

by Robert Green

GoodNews Cover Story 28 Catch Ministry

by Mark Wells & Kelly Hixson GoodNews for Everyone

30 May the Best Choir Win

by Kendra Steveson

GoodNews for Couples

32 Putting God First

by Shell Underwood

GoodNews for Seniors

34 Hoarding

by Esmerelda Lee

GoodNews for Everyone

36 Getting Out There

by John Garrod

GoodNews for Everyone

38 Learning to Be Content

by Kelly McDonald

54

GoodNews for Everyone

40 A Vessel Fit for Use

by Mindy White

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42 Redneck Slaw

by Jonathan Dobbs

GoodNews for Everyone

44 Love Is Time: Sacrificing for the Other

by Richard Gamble

GoodNews for Everyone

46 Kaleidoscope

by John Thomas

GoodNews for Everyone

50 Selling Your Home?

by Tracie Smith

GoodNews from the Outdoors

52 The Voice

by Craig Gray

GoodNews for Everyone

54 Carriers of Good News

by William Lamb

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

I

Coping with Change

by Karyn Bogert

asked a high school senior the other day, “So what are you doing after high school?”

He responded by rolling of his eyes and shrugging his shoulder.

“I don’t know! Why does everyone keep asking me that? How should I know what the future holds?”

This young man touched on an age-old dilemma. None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. However, there are times in our lives when change and transition seem to be the order of the day. During these times of uncertainty or transition, it is easy to feel apprehension about the future. We would like to think that after the changeover from adolescence to adulthood, these times of transition will diminish. However, that is rarely the case. It seems we are always confronted with change. We change schools, jobs, automobiles, clothes, homes, and our appearance.

Our relationships change in many ways, too. During our lifetime we might marry, have children, divorce, or become widowed. Even our roles within the family can change. At any given time, we might be a spouse, parent, child and/or caregiver for our children or our parents. Even friends, family, and significant others can change. These transitions can be more difficult than we expect.

As we age, our self-image can change as well. Perhaps you’ve noticed that it’s more difficult to keep

6 // May 2015

up with things than it used to be.

Maybe you can’t do the same things you used to enjoy. Personally, I find it very difficult to stay current on the rapid changes in technology! It was a humbling learning experience to be taught to use my smart phone by someone young enough to be my child.

Whether we like it or not, change is the one constant in our lives. During these times, we can become frustrated, confused, resentful, depressed, fearful, or withdrawn.

However, these are also times when we are challenged to adapt, to grow, and to transform.

Most often, we employ our own coping skills to deal with life’s situations. We try to look at the big picture and not obsess on the problem.

We find support and seek advice from trusted friends and family. We watch a movie, listen to our favorite music, or take a walk to relieve stress. We try to change the way we look at the situation and seek a fresh perspective. When our best efforts fail, we may seek help from a counselor or a minister.

Many of us turn to our

faith to deal with life's changes. But sometimes, we can experience difficult times in our spiritual journey when we have to ask difficult questions of our childhood understanding of Scripture and struggle to grow into a more mature faith. It seems our journey of faith, too, can (and should) experience growth and transition.

With all of this change in life, is there anything that we can count on? Yes! We can count on God’s grace and love for us. The prophet Isaiah delivered this message from God, “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God” (41:10 NIV).

While everything around us might change, God’s love for us will not. God is the constant in our lives.

God will continue to love us and extend grace even when we fail. No matter what we are experiencing, God continues to give us hope and strength to find new opportunities in the challenges and transitions of life.

Blessings on your journey!

Reverend Karyn Bogert ministers at First Christian Church of Cleveland, TN.

Gò0dNews for Kids

A Special Gift for Mom N

by Danielle Jennings

othing says Mother’s Day like a sentimental, handmade gift. From handprints in clay to handcrafted cards,

Mother’s Day is not complete without those gifts that are made with love. It is also not complete without flowers. Any type of flower, as long as it is given with love, is never a bad flower! So why not create flowers out of handprints? What a special way to deliver those flowers to Mom!

What you’ll need: • White sheet of paper

• Green paint for the stems • 4 other colors of paint • 1 color for the ribbon

• 3 colors that you want your flowers to be (Mom’s favorite colors would look nice!)

• Paintbrushes

• Sponge to apply paint to hands!

How to:

• Apply the first color of paint to one of your hands • Press hand down firmly on piece of paper

• Apply second color of paint to the other hand

• Press down firmly overlapping the thumb on the first hand • Next, paint the stems with green paint from the palms to the bottom edge of the paper • Allow those hands and stems to dry for a few minutes • Apply the third color of paint to one of your hands, and overlap the other two handprints in the middle.

• Your fingers should be right about where the thumbs are • Press hand firmly down on the paper

• Paint a green stem from that palm downward to the edge of the page.

• Using your 4th color, paint a ribbon around the stems where they come together.

• Let dry and present to Mom on Mother’s Day!

8 // May 2015

Danielle Jennings is the director of children’s ministry at Ooltewah United Methodist. She is a graduate of Lee University and is currently working on her master’s degree. Her passion is working with children and helping them succeed.

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Gò0dNews on Money Matters

T

What’s Yours Should Be Mine!

by Andrew Lee

he Bible is clear that covetousness (envy) is a sin.

Malema claims that his next brilliant idea, after land

If you’re unclear about this, refer to the Ten Com-

occupation, is to simply “take over the banking system” of

mandments. So often when it comes to our financial

South Africa. Why wouldn’t that plan work? The answer

situation, we look around at those whom we perceive to

to this question has implications for our own spiritual and

be more financially successful and we think to ourselves, If

financial battles against greed and covetousness. Obvious-

only I had what he or she has, then I would have it made! I wish I

ly, God calls us to help the poor and to give to the needy;

had that house or that car or those clothes, and so forth.”

the Scriptures state that clearly, and the verses are numer-

Rather than envying others’ material possessions and

ous. But how we do that—wisely, soberly, prayerfully, and

monetary wealth, how often do we really consider the

thoughtfully—is essential. Spontaneous giving certainly

diligence, talent, and time that it usually takes to achieve

has its place, and Christians should be open to that if the

this level of financial success? In our microwave culture

Lord leads them to do so. But for larger and longer-term

of instant gratification, we want the end results without

charitable commitments, due diligence is in order.

putting in the effort or possessing the talent necessary to produce those results. Moreover, what would happen if we actually could somehow simply have those possessions immediately without earning them for ourselves? Would we be happy then?

While I was visiting South Africa

What would happen if Malema were successful in occupying land and forcefully taking control of the South African banking system? Would masses of his poor followers suddenly get bags of cash and luxurious homes and cars? Of course not. Chaos and anarchy would erupt, quickly leading to a

recently, I read in the newspapers about

dictatorship as has often been the case in

a rising young politician named Julius

countless nations throughout history.

Malema who had broken away from the

We need look no further than South

ruling African National Congress party

Africa’s neighboring country, Zimba-

to create his own faction, a group which

bwe, and the lunacy of Robert Mugabe’s

called itself the Economic Freedom

iron-fisted rule, to predict the outcome.

Fighters. Malema instructed his fol-

Mugabe’s followers did precisely what

lowers to immediately take over and

Malema is advocating; they murdered

occupy any unoccupied land across

white farmers and took over their land,

the whole of South Africa. It sounds

all in the name of equality, and anyone

simple enough—just enter any land, lot,

who opposes Mugabe is either killed

yard, house, building, forest, mountain,

or imprisoned. Now those same Zim-

plain—and if nobody is living there,

babwean farms are wasting away, and

claim it as your own in the name of

the country is starving, with the highest

“squatters’ rights.” Don’t trouble your-

inflation rate in the world. We should

self with checking to see who might

be careful what we wish for, and not let

have purchased the land and might

envy poison our spiritual lives.

hold the title deed to the property. If no one is there presently, just take it. It’s yours.

10 // May 2015

Dr. Andrew Lee is associate 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.

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Gò0dNews for Men

Are You Too Busy?

by Samuel Burger

T

here was once a father who worked long hours

is their deep need and craving. Here are three sugges-

and did various activities with his friends in the

tions of how to meet that need: 1. The father/husband is to lead by words. What you say

evening after work hours. He enjoyed his life

and loved his job; however, there were problems mount-

can devastate or build. Did you know words have direc-

ing in his life. His wife repeatedly asked, “Honey, can

tive power over your spouse and children? One study

we please have at least one date night this week?”

revealed that the majority of men who were told by their

His son asked, “Dad, will you go to some of my baseball games?”

in prison. Understand what you say has a direct correla-

His reply seemed apathetic, “When I get time, I will.”

tion upon the direction your spouse and children take in life.

Men, don’t let your family suffer emotionally and spiritually because you are too busy. I heard one man say, “I wished I would have realized be-

2. The father/husband is to lead by example. It’s vital to speak the right words to your family, but it’s also vital to let them see you act. Children learn best when they see you live a godly life. There is one statement I’ll never

ing with my wife

forget: “Rules without relationship leads to rebellion.”

and children was

Understand that your conduct also has directive power

more important

over your family. It’s quite difficult to lead when your

than working my

example doesn’t match the moral guidelines you place

butt off to make

on your family.

sure they had

3. The father/husband is to lead by love. The best thing

things. I tried

you can do for your family is to love your wife. As you

to fulfill their

love your wife as Christ loves the Church, you will

needs with things

be leading by example. Tell your wife how much she

instead of myself.

means to you with a hand-written letter and in person.

I’m sorry I made

Show her how much you love her by meeting her needs

my family suffer

and desires. Why don’t you cherish her and nourish

in that capacity.

her? Be willing to meet her in the middle on disagree-

What good is

ments to show her you are willing to sacrifice in order to

luxury without

see her happy. As you begin to compliment, encourage,

love?” Your

and affirm her, you will reap a greater return. You’ll be

family needs

so glad you did.

quality time with you. That

12 // May 2015

fathers they would never amount to anything ended up

Don’t become so busy that you cannot lead your family effectively. Just be with them.

Samuel Burger is the pastor of Chestuee Baptist Church.

Feel free to contact him via email samuelbrgr@yahoo.com.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Created to Stand Out A

by Ashley Smith

t one time in my life, I remember looking everywhere to find who I was. I wanted validation from those around me. I loved it when people complimented me, because then I could feel good about myself. But it also worked the opposite way. When someone said negative things about me, instead of just brushing it off, I would take them to heart as if that was who I was.

For so long, I tried to be that girl who tried to fit in

crowd was doing it, then so was I. If the crowd wasn’t doing it, then I wanted absolutely no part of it. I didn’t want to be who God created me to be, and I didn’t know how to be who God created me to be.

Women carry a lot of responsibilities. Some are mothers, wives, career women, and entrepreneurs.

Many have more than one role, and it is so easy to get caught up with who the world thinks you should be— especially if you are good at what you do. When people

with the crowd. I listened to the same music as everyone else and talked the same as everyone else. If the

praise you, it’s easy to allow that to define who you are.

But who you are is not found in what you do; who you are is found in the One who created you.

God created us in His image and His likeness. He created us with a purpose that goes far beyond what we do in this world. Yes, He has given us abilities, talents, and gifts for us to be able to glorify Him, but those things in no way define who we are. I used to only feel confident if someone complimented my outward appearance, but now I know that no matter what anyone says, God calls me His beautiful, chosen daughter.

But it’s not just me. He knows your name; He knows your heart. He knows those very things that you hide, trying to maintain that perfect image to the world.

Yet, He loves you so dearly because you are His. He has called you to be set apart, to be different, to be uniquely you. He has things for you to do that only you can do.

We have to stop living the way the world wants us to live and to stand out as women of God. We have to find our identity in Him and who He has called us to be, so that we can walk fully and confidently in the purpose He has for us.

The best part about knowing who you are in Christ is that you no longer think you have to compete with anyone else, because what God has for you is for you and no one else. Let God show you today who you are in Him and what great, amazing things He has just for you!

14 // May 2015

Ashley Smith attends Cornerstone Church of God where she is the youth leader. She graduated from Lee University in 2010 with her degree in biology.

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Cleveland Church Directory Assembly of God

Grace Assembly 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-7729 Triune Assembly 301 Sunset Drive Cleveland, TN 37312

Baptist Beacon Baptist Church 505 Corvin Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7056 Big Spring Baptist Church 1415 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-1101 Bellefounte Baptist Church Pastor Lake Walker 132 Bellfounte Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2312 Bethel Baptist Tabernacle Pastor Johnny Townsend 3165 Buchanan Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5820 Blue Springs Baptist Church 699 Blue Springs Church Rd SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0932F Candies Creek Church 294 Old Eureka Rd Charleston, TN 37310 423-479-3731 candiescreekchurch.com Cedar Springs Baptist Church 723 Cedar Springs Church Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-5506 Center Point Baptist Church 167 Monza Ln NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-2133 Cleveland Cowboy Church Pastor Wally Varnell 3040 Blythe Rd. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-7936 or clevelandcowboychurch.com Cloverleaf Baptist Church Pastor Michael Coleman 2290 Waterlevel Highway Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3617 Clingan Ridge Baptist Church 2412 Georgetown Road, NW Cleveland, TN 37312(423) 472-3511 or www.clinganridgebaptist.com Church At Grace Point Pastor Phil Griffin 2595 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 728-5050 or grace-point.com Covenant Baptist Church 249 Calhoun Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-2653 Dalton Pike Baptist Church

16 // May 2015

3055 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7606 Elkmont Baptist Church 4030 Old Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4600 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1227 Powerline Dr NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 East Cleveland Baptist Church 1145 Arnold St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8728 Farmland Community Church Location: YMCA 10:00am Fairview Baptist Church 5545 Runway Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 790-5353 First Baptist Church Co-Pastor Allan Lockerman, Co-Pastor-Jim Gibson 1275 Stuart Road Cleveland, Tennessee 37312 (423)709-9100 or clevelandfbc.com Galilee Baptist Church 665 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 496-2019 Henegar Baptist Church 7423 Mouse Creek Rd. Cleveland Tn 37312 Hopewell Baptist Church 188 Old Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-3763 The Journey Church 1668 S Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-4100 Lebanon Baptist Church 1411 Old Parksville Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-6700 Macedonia Baptist Church 3119 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-1713 Maple Street Baptist Church 1700 Maple St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-3622 Maranatha Baptist Church 453 Blue Springs Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-8991 Michigan Avenue Baptist Church 2741 Benton Pike NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-8891 Mt Carmel Baptist Church 7619 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1620 New Friendship Baptist Church 1344 Chatata Valley Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-6007 North Cleveland Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Jay Mccluskey

2815 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8524 or northclevelandbaptist.org Oak Grove Baptist Church 4452 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-9125 Old Pathway Baptist Church 224 Rymer Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Parkway Baptist Church Rev. Shane Lawson 185 Meadow Ln SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-5522 or www.parkwaybaptist.info Philadelphia Baptist Church 910 30th St SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 Philippi Baptist Church 2325 Old Harrison Pike NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-5385 Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church 799 Inman Street East Cleveland, Tennessee 37311 (423) 476-4081 Ridgeview Baptist Church 1501 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5119 Samples Memorial Baptist Church 371 Samples Chapel Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-2329 Shenandoah Baptist Church Pastor Brent Coley 138 Osment Rd Se, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 339-0103 or www.sbcministries.com Shiloh Baptist Church 3406 Blair Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-5755 Stuart Park Baptist Church 850 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-6741 Tasso Baptist Church 164 Old Charleston Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2114 Temple Baptist Church 3070 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6813 Thompson Spring Baptist Church 5660 Bates Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 790-1823 Union Baptist Church 797 Hughes Lake Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 559-1720 Valley View Baptist Church Pastor David Tuten 4657 Spring Place Rd SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-7707 or vvbaptist.org

Washington Avenue Baptist Church 1720 Perry St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-0489 Waterville Baptist Church Pastor Allan Lovelace 4555 Dalton Pike SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-5582 or watervillebaptistchurch.org West Cleveland Baptist Church 1959 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-8927 Westwood Baptist Church Pastor Steve Smartt 4001 Georgetown Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-1534 or www.westwoodlife.org White Oak Baptist Church 2043 White Oak Valley Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-2359

Catholic

St Therese Catholic Church 900 Clingan Ridge Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-8123

Charismatic

Cleveland Christian Fellowship Pastor Mark Strickland 695 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-2642 or ccfchurch.us

Church of God

Cornerstone Church of God Pastor Rick and Lori Sentell 2823 Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0006 Church of God Sanctified, Inc. Pastor- Bishop G.R. Hill 746 First Street N.E. Cleveland, TN. 37311 (423)479-3895 Destiny Community Fellowship COG 2611 Blue Springs Road SE Cleveland, TN 37311 East Cleveland Church of God Pastor John A. Lombard Jr. 900 15th St NE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3389 Fellowship of Praise COG Pastor Selma Hall 931 Inman Street East Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3121 or fellowshipofpraisecog.org Grace Community Church of God Pastor Kevin Mendel 4745 Mouse Creek Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37312.

(423) 614-0708 or www.gracecleveland.org Heritage Fellowship COG Pastor Steve Gilbert 4635 S Lee Hwy

McDonald, TN 37353 (423) 476-6316 International Worship Center Centro Internacional de Adoración 533 Central Ave. NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-1977 or www.iwcchurch.com Lakeview Church of God Pastor Dustin Wilds 105 Pound Street S.E. Cleveland, TN 37323 (423)-790-5805 or lakeviewcog.org North Cleveland COG Pastor Mitch Maloney 335 11th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5513 or nccog.org Michigan Avenue COG Rev. David B. Boles 515 Minnis Road N.E (423) 584-3663 Mt Olive COG 3522 Harrison Pike, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-3381 Mt View COG 210 Roadway Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 472-6925 South Cleveland COG Pastor Chris Moody 1846 Volunteer Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6382 or southcleveland.org Westmore COG Pastor Kelvin Page 2412 Wolfe Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 559-9646 or www.westmorecog.org Zion Assembly COG Pastor Todd Mcdonald 5512 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-3337 or zionassemblychurchofgod.com/

Church of God of Prophecy

Cleveland Spanish COGOP 2610 Grove Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312 (423)473-7199 Durkee Road COGOP 201Durkee Rd. Cleveland, TN37312 (423) 472-4384 Keith Street Ministries COGOP 4000 Keith ST. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-2448 Peerless Road COGOP 3301 Peerless Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423)303-2680 Spring Place COGOP 2530 Spring Place Rd. Cleveland, TN37311 (423)476-6414 Wildwood COGOP Bishop Winston Reid 140 Wildwood Ave Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)479-6584

Episcopal

Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church 320 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311

Lutheran

First Lutheran Church 195 McIntire Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-6811

Methodist

Big Spring United Methodist 1196 Hardwick St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5242 Black Fox United Methodist 1820 Old Chattanooga Pike SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-1908 Broad Street United Methodist 155 Central Ave NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5586 First United Methodist Church 3425 Ocoee St N, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-4504 S. Cleveland United Methodist 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 507-5760 Tasso United Methodist 1106 Tasso Ln NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 479-4457 Riverston Church 85 Central Ave NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 790-5956 Trinity United Methodist Church 731 1st St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 614-7900 Valley Head Methodist Church 920 Mouse Creek Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-0575 Wesley Memorial Methodist 3405 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 472-9578

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 4200 Pryor Rd N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312 423-503-6394

Pentecostal

Faith Memorial Church 910 17th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6281 First United Pentecostal Church 4095 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-9436 Full Gospel House of Prayer Pastor Michael Ferree 1500 Wildwood Ave. Cleveland, TN Set Free Christian Fellowship 1175 King Edwards Ave. Cleveland, TN

Nazarene

Cleveland First Church Of The Nazarene Pastor BJ Miller 2712 Henderson Ave. Cleveland, TN 37312-5225 423-472-7371 New Hope Church of the Nazarene Pastor Scot Carraway 2018 Washington Ave Cleveland, TN 37364 (423)479-7343

Non-Denominational

Christian Fellowship Ctr 895 6th St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-9591 Church Alive Ministries Cleveland, TN 37353 (423) 559-1371 Cleveland Community Chapel Pastor Tazz Reid 1823 Forest Ridge Dr. Cleveland, Tn. 37311 Cleveland Cornerstone Church 533 Broad St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-1775 Cornerstone Family Church 4997 N. Lee Highway Cleveland, TN 37312 423.380.9160 cfctn.net Dwelling Place Church Inter.

Pastors Jamie and Judy Jacobs Tuttle 523 Urbane Rd. NE Cleveland, TN 37312 423.790.5200 www.iwilldwell.com Evening Light Gospel Dr. Donald E. Smith, Jr. 200 20th St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 Freedom Fellowship Church 3555 Blue Springs Rd, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 478-0654 God’s Family Fellowship Pastors, Doug & Patsy Bell 197 Neely Circle NE Cleveland, TN 37312 Phone (423) 790-7533 www.godsfamilyfellowship.net Graceway Chapel 221 14th St NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 728-2226 Living Word Church Pastor Evan Cockerham 930 25th Street, NW Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 339-3028 or thelovingchurch.com Norvel Hayes Ministries 24 155 S Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-3882 Restoration Fellowship 211 Trewhitt Dr SE, Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 479-4249 The Simple Gospel 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311

423-650-9572 www.pointing2jesus.com Shema Israel Ministry 850 Elrod St SE Cleveland, TN 37311 423-994-8553 Tasso Christian Church 1135 Tasso Lane, Cleveland, Tn. 37312 (423) 479-2705 The Sanctuary Pastors Mike & Elizabeth Shreve 1203 Smith Dr. Cleveland, TN 37311 (423)478-2843 / shreveministries. org United Christian Church Pastors Charles and Margie Poteat 2200 Peerless Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 479-4277 Unity Christian Ministries Pastor Aubrey Ector 2419 Georgetown RD NW 37312 423-473-9338 Walker Valley Community 787 Lauderdale Memorial Hwy Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-9696

Presbyterian

Charleston Cumberland Presbyterian Church 8267 N Lee Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 336-5004 First Cumberland Presbyterian 161 2nd St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-6751 First Presbyterian Church 433 N Ocoee St, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-5584 Flint Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church Rev. Kevin Wilson 515 Flint Springs Rd Cleveland TN. 37323 423-284-6397 or Facebook Prospect United Cumberland Presbyterian Church 310 New Murraytown Rd., NW Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 476-6181 St James Cumberland Presbyterian

151 Short St NE, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 472-5762 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1780 Stuart Rd NE, Cleveland, TN 37312 (423) 559-9595

Seventh Day Adventist

Ladd Springs Seventh-Day 5860 Bates Pike SE Cleveland, TN 37323 (423) 476-1889 Bowman Hills Adventist 300 Westview Dr NE Cleveland, TN 37312 East Cleveland Seventh-Day 801 Howard Circle SE Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 476-9299.

issuu.com/goodnewscm // 17

Athens Church Directory

Assembly of God

Abundant Blessing 2613 Cardinal St Athens, TN 37303 423-435-5867

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church 218 Canal St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3332 Central Baptist 13 Nash Dr. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0400 Clearwater Baptist 964 County Rd. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-7147 Covenant Baptist 241 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-263-1569 East Athens Baptist 301 Central Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1394 Fairview Baptist 251 County Rd. 128 Athens, TN 37303 423-649-0346 First Baptist 305 Ingleside Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5441 First Bible Baptist 1819 Old Niota Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0765 Freedom Baptist 2207 Velma Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-746-0193 Mount Pleasant Baptist 414 Chester St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-6510 Idelwild Baptist 118 county rd Athens, TN 37303 423-746-0002 Lakeview Baptist 182 County rd. 126 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0451 Mount Pleasant Baptist 414 Chester St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-6510 Mount Verd Baptist 251 County Rd 249 Athens, TN 37303 423-507-1286 New Hopewell Baptist 197 County Rd Athens, TN 37303

18 // May 2015

423-744-0940 New Zion Baptist 393 County Rd 616 Athens, TN 37303 423-263-9841 North Athens Baptist 402 Tellico Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3813 Oak Grove Baptist 1212 County Rd. 100 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-9986 Parkway Baptist 1701 Velma Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9709 Rocky Mount Baptist 1002 Rocky Mount Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8758 Rogers Creek Baptist 510 County Rd 180 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0295 Short Creek Baptist 892 County Rd. 50 Athens, TN 37303 423-336-5089 South Liberty Baptist 505 County Rd 655 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5124 Union Hill Baptist 258 County Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1241 Unity Baptist 162 County Rd 750 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-0420 Valley View Baptist 323 County Rd 370 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5159 West End Baptist 803 Clark St. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-8274 West View Baptist 2707 Highway 39 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2193

Catholic

St. Mary Catholic Church 1291 E. Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-4277

Christian

Athens Christian Church 802 S Matlock Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-5791

Church of God

Aoh Church Of God 501 Ohio St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1279 First Church of God 200 Fisher St. Athens, TN 37303 423-887-5855 Woodward Avenue CoG 507 Woodward Ave Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1618

Community

Christ Community Church 14 Congress PRKY S. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8185

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) 508 Cedar Springs Rd Athens, TN 373 423-745-0102

Nazarene

Athens Church of the Nazarene 1908 W. Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-744-3017

Episcopal

St Paul Episcopal Church 123 S. Jackson ST. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2224

Lutheran

Athens Lutheran Church 710 Forrest Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9419

Methodist

Keith Memorial UMC 600 W Madison Ave. Athens, TN 37371 423-745-2612 Piney Grove UMC 767 County Rd. 750 423-462-2130 Athens, TN 37303 Riceville 2519 Cindy St Athens, TN 37303 423-462-2130 St. Mark Ame Zion Methodist 707 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 Tranquility UMC 135 County Rd. 177 Athens, TN 37303 423-334-3062 Trinity UMC 100 E. College St Athens, TN 37303

423-745-0452 Vine Grove UMC 517 County Rd. 778 Athens, Tn 37303 423-507-5760

Non- Denominational

Ascension Life 935 Rocky Mount Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-829-5102 Christian Freedom Wrshp Center 109 Cherry St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8999 Emmanuel Church 1905 Congress Parkway S. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0851 Freedom Chapel 815 Cleveland Ave. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8079 Great Deliverance Ministries 2329 Clearwater Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-7575 Liberty Church 3328 Hwy 11 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-9248 Overcoming Faith Christian 14 Carter Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-3105 Restoration Church 3115 Hwy 39 Athens, TN 37303 423-745-7777 Sanctury 9 S. Kilgore St. Athens, TN 37303 423-745-8900

Pentecostal

Crosslife Ministries 817 S. White St Athens, TN 37313 423-368-7197 Athens United Pentecostal 2820 Hwy 11 Athens, TN 37303 423-744-7159

Presbyterian

First United Presbyterian Church 321 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 423-744-9073 Mars Hill Presbyterian 205 N. Jackson St Athens, TN 37303 423-745-1403

Seveth-Day Adventist

Seveth-Day Adventist 230 New Englewood Rd Athens, TN 37303 423-745-2335

LIST YOUR Church Activities & Events Special Events Such As...

•Revivals •Cookouts •Concerts •Fundraisers •Etc. Email: fernando.goodnews@gmail.com

Gò0dNews for Parents

A Note to Harried, Frustrated, Overworked Moms

by Craig Thompson

M

y wife and I have been parents for a long,

to Christian women. Read it again if you haven't done

long time (at least, it seems that way). One

so in a while. She also sounds like a woman who would

thing I've learned is that being a parent is a

look tired, harried, and sometimes frustrated. She

tiring job. Actually, it can be exhausting.

As we celebrate Mother's Day this month, I look

does a lot of good things for her family that take up an immense amount of time in any given week, month,

around at the mothers of all ages in my circle of friends

or year. But when you read Proverbs 31, it doesn't talk

and reflect on their countenances. I see the mothers

about how this mom feels. It talks about what she does.

of preschoolers coming into church with little ones in tow. I see mothers pick up their elementary-age sons from class. I see moms of high school kids as they try to coordinate schedules after church.

Mostly, the mothers I know look stressed, tired, depleted. They have looks of concern on their faces.

Sometimes I see genuine sadness, especially in the mothers of children who are going in the wrong direction. I see looks that say, I'm doing my best, but I'm really not sure I'm doing this right!

The children they love generally don’t give a sec-

• She gets up in the dark and makes food for her household.

• She buys quality merchandise for her family.

• She works with her hands willingly.

• She remembers the poor.

• She's even an entrepreneur to help the family finances.

And there's more. The key phrase is in verse 25: "She shall rejoice in time to come." Being a mom while you are in the thick of things doesn't feel pleasant. That's actually normal. Take

ond thought to the mental or physical condition of

the good emotions when they come. They

their mothers. They go through life ignorant

won't last, but they're nice. Think about

of the sacrifices their mothers make for

raising children as being more like you are

them daily. That's okay; they'll have kids someday.

I’m not saying that there aren't some bad mothers. I know moms who have spoiled their kids. I know

in training for a grueling double marathon, followed by a triathlon or two.

The real joy comes when you know you've completed the actual race. For moms, this is seeing your

moms who don't discipline their chil-

child launch out on his or her

dren other than to speak an idle threat

own and living a life of faith. It's

that everyone around (including the

seeing your daughter become

children) knows is a lie. The truth is,

a mother and realize that she is

those moms have a lifetime full of grief and misery ahead. When you

raising her child to honor God. So to mothers everywhere who are giving

raise an undisciplined and spoiled

their best: chin up! You're making a joy

child, you can easily reap a future

deposit every day!

addict or criminal.

Proverbs 31 talks about the type of mother who is an example

20 // May 2015

Craig Thompson is an author and speaker. You can read more of his material at walkwithgod.com.

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Gò0dNews for Life

Turning Troubles into Tools Are You Allowing God to Use You?

“S

by Beth Henderson

o, how long have you been playing tennis?”

“Just a couple of months.”

“Well, you’re going to be great. I can tell.

You’ve got this, girl!”

My daughter, Jamie, had this conversation with her

“demons” that may have possessed us for years.

4. God can turn our troubles into tools of mercy and instruments of grace. Thank God for His transforming love!

So, what do we do with all this? Have you allowed

opponent on the tennis courts one day during a match. She

your troubles to keep you from getting in the game, so to

could tell the girl was very upset at her performance, and,

speak? Do you have hidden sins or past failures that make

encourager that she is, my daughter was trying to lift her

you feel unworthy to glorify God and help others? It can

competitor’s spirits. Conversely, she heard her opponent’s

be hard to open our lives up to others, because victory only

brother yelling from the stands, “Way to go. Do you even

comes after challenge, comfort out of pain, and healing

know how to play tennis?”

after brokenness. But don’t worry, broken people are the

I was so proud of my daughter that day. She could have gloated and made the girl feel the full sting of defeat,

only ones allowed on the team! So, what do you do now?

• Acknowledge the mercy, compassion, and comfort

but she didn’t. She had compassion and acted accordingly.

God has offered you. Embrace it! Surrender your life

Why? Because she has walked a mile in that girl’s tennis

to Jesus—all of it!

shoes and knows what it’s like to be on that side of the court. The encouraging words of others has inspired her to keep trying even when it looked like she might lose.

• Allow God to set you free from the bondage of past mistakes and turn your troubles into tools He will use to help restore someone else and point them to Him.

Second Corinthians 1:3-4 tells us this: “Praise be to

• Take the first step of obedience by telling someone

the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of

what God has done for you! Your story is what a

compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in

broken heart needs to know that healing is available

all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (NIV).

for them, too.

It’s spring now, and with new growth outside, it’s a good time

In the Gospel of Mark, after Jesus had healed the

to experience new growth

demon-possessed man, He instructed him this way: “Go

inside. Look for how you

home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has

can comfort someone today,

done for you, and how he has had mercy on you” (5:19

and remember it was dur-

NIV). There’s good news in these passages for us.

ing a time of sorrow that

1. God is the Father of compassion. Compassion is sym-

the writer of Lamentations

pathy that causes one to act on another’s behalf. He will act

reminded us: “Because of

on your behalf.

the Lord’s great love we are

2. God is there to comfort us in our troubles. What

not consumed, for his com-

troubles are you experiencing today? Can you feel God’s

passions never fail. They are new

comforting presence in your life? If not, ask Him to help

every morning” (3:22-23 NIV).

you experience the comfort He offers.

3. God is a God of mercy. He sets us free from the

22 // May 2015

Beth Henderson is the development director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center.

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

S

Consistency

by Shawn Brooks

tonecutters could hit their hammer on a boulder

be? Do you want to be the average you or the best you?”

hundreds of times without making a dent. Yet,

Everything starts with a mindset and ends with your

they keep hammering away. Finally, the boul-

actions. Do you think God put you on this earth so that

der splits into two. Many would credit this to the last hit. However, a stonecutter knows that it’s the constant

you would worship Him in an average way?

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot

pressure from all the hits before that caused the boulder

bare fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither

to split wide open. This is my mentality when facing

can you, unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4 NKJV).

any obstacle in life.

That is the secret of spiritual growth. What Jesus is

One of the most important and overlooked truths that has much to do with how believers can live a successful life has to do with how consistent we

saying in this verse is that if you’re staying in place, you’re not moving. How do you have a strong grip with Jesus? It is regularity and

are with everything. With life, as well as with

consistency that produces lasting

anything, the more consistent we are at do-

results.

ing one thing, the more of an impact it will have on our lives.

Another way of abiding is walking with the Lord himself.

When the new year comes

As 1 John 2:6 says, “He who

around, many people say they

says he abides in Him ought

will get in better shape and begin

himself also to walk just as He

to exercise, along with eating

walked” (NKJV). Walking speaks

better. The reason many do not

of consistency in motion. That

see change is because this only

means making time for God and go-

lasts for a short while, and then

ing to church. It means making time for

they go back to what they have

Scripture and prayer. If you are too busy,

always done.

then get up earlier. Go to bed at a decent

The same is true with spiritual

time. You will find time for what is impor-

growth and development. The main ob-

tant in your life. This will show you a test of

stacle that most people have trouble with

time in your own life and will show how you

is consistency. They may go to church for

produce results. Just ask yourself this: Are

a while, and then they may not come at

you producing spiritual and abundant fruit?

all. People may have a struggle with their walk with the Lord, but they tend to go back into doing what they have always done, obtaining the same results by doing the same thing over and over.

The question is: “Who do you want to

24 // May 2015

Shawn Brooks was born in New Orleans and moved to Tennessee via hurricane Katrina, which tested his faith. Athletics have shown him to be patient and how to work hard. He will always be grateful for being where he is today, but heartbroken for how it happened in the beginning. Shawn graduated from Lee University with a degree in Business Administration B.S.

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Gò0dNews for Teens

Finishing Strong The Faith Journey Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint.

by Robert Green

M

ost everybody I know has some semblance of a “bucket list.” For me, the bitter sweet is that I was able to check most of those off before I was twenty-one while serving alongside the U.S. Army Special Forces.

• Jump from an aircraft from several thousand feet [check] • Don the Green Beret [check] • Fire some of the world’s greatest military weapons [check] • Ski in the glaciers in Switzerland [check] • Hike through the Bavarian Alps [Check] • Learn foreign languages [check] • Get a behind-the-scenes look of the Holy Land [check] • Travel the world [check] • Ride in the “Mystery Van” with Shaggy and Scooby Doo (okay, so I can’t check that one off yet).

There are a few things, however, that I have not yet checked off my list. One of those would be checked off just a few days before my fiftieth birthday—to run a full marathon (26.2 miles). It took me a half-century to complete the challenge, but it is finally at the bottom of the bucket. The race took place on a cold, blistery morning at the Chickamauga Battlefield Park. The cannon’s went off and so did a few thousand runners who made their way around a short circle to wave to friends and family. Then off we went into the frozen tundra covering what would be equivalent to running across the Golden Gate bridge thirty-three times or covering the length of 415,008 human tongues stretched out in a straight line.

The marathon has such rich history, dating back to Biblical times. The imagery of the marathon has been part of my favorite go-to analogy when speaking about

26 // May 2015

the Christian faith. The topic of finishing strong has been the most repeated message and has become my life’s mission statement. So many in this life start strong but fail to finish strong. History is filled with coaches, athletes, dads, moms, husbands, and wives, who began the journey with so much promise but sadly ended with so little to show for it. They thought the race was a sprint and got off to a good start but didn’t train well enough to finish the journey.

I had used the Boston Marathon as one of my points to illustrate how mentally and physically challenging the race of life can be. Boston is known for a particular part of the race around the 19-mile marker where the infamous Heart Break Hill is located. Having to ascend this hill after a gruesome distance is tough. More people drop out here than any other part of the race, because their body is starting to shut down. At some point in life, everyone will experience heartbreak hill (cancer, divorce, bankruptcy, moral failure, death of a loved one, you fill in the blank ____________). During these moments, you have to trust and “[Be] confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6 NIV).

Paul used rich, racing analogies throughout his Epistles, and this is perhaps my favorite: “You take over.

I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar. This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting—God’s applause! Depend on it, he’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming” (2 Tim. 4:6-8 The Message).

Robert Green is a 28-year-youth ministry veteran, an avid runner, spiritual coach, chaplain, and is now serving as an area director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes over the Ocoee Region. What he treasures most is his wife Teresa and his two daughters Mariah and Sierra.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

I

CATCH M

by Mark Wells and Kelly Hixson

n 2005, after the horrif-

same people who were staying on the lakes

ic devastation in Loui-

Sunday morning and missing out on hearing

siana and other Gulf

the Gospel. Before any prize money is given

states from Hurricane

out at a tournament, the Gospel is presented.

Katrina, a few men

Last year in 2014, the Lord blessed the minis-

from different churches got

try with two people who requested baptism,

together with a desire to

which took place right there on the lake in

raise funds for the victims

front of all the fishermen.

there. Kevin Johnson, president of CATCH, recalls the

Girls Club in Cleveland and began a yearly

morning when he was pray-

tradition of taking the kids fishing. Every

ing and the word CATCH

year since 2006, with the generosity of Terry

came to his mind. CATCH is

and Angela Forshee from Cherokee Pharma-

an acronym for Christian An-

cy, CATCH has hosted over a thousand kids

glers Together Can Help.

for a day of fun, food, and fishing. The first

Although their hearts were in the right place to send

year this took place, the CATCH team will never forget the screams from kids gathered

those funds, not one dime of any of the

around the lake screaming, “I got one! I got

money raised was sent to the victims. God

one!” The kids used marshmallows and hot

had other plans for those funds and for

dogs for bait. After all the fun and fishing

these men and women. They were to reach

has taken place, the Gospel is presented, and

out to people hurting and use that money to

more than 200 people have accepted Christ

minister to the local community of Cleve-

as their Savior.

land.

CATCH was also burdened to pres-

3. CATCH reached out to the local senior homes in Cleveland, Bradley Healthcare and

ent the Gospel at every event. Early in the

Rehabilitation, Life Care, Garden Plaza, and

ministry, CATCH would receive invitations

Signature Health. All have benefited from

to participate at events, and one criteria that

the days of fishing and fellowship. What

had to be met: CATCH would be able to

CATCH noticed is that these older citizens

present the Gospel. If the answer was no,

are often forgotten and they need love. After

then they didn’t go.

a day of fishing, CATCH returns to the

Four Areas of Ministry

1. First, CATCH holds bass tournaments

28 // May 2015

2. CATCH reached out to the Boys and

homes and concentrates their efforts on the workers at the facilities. These workers who take care of our seniors have a hard job and

once a month. How is this ministry, you ask?

very seldom receive a “thank you.” A fish fry

They noticed that the people they fished

for the workers is a small way that CATCH

against on any typical Saturday were the

shows their appreciation for their efforts.

Ministry 4. CATCH was allowed to be a part of the recovery in people who faced problems with addiction to alcohol or drugs in their lives. Dr. Linda Wells and Eddie Wells opened the doors of Action Counseling and Consulting and asked CATCH to come in and do some pastoral counseling. As a part of CATCH Ministry, those participating truly felt like we were being the hands and feet of Jesus in this part of our ministry. We got to share Jesus with folks who were truly hurting and needed a word of encouragement to keep fighting and not give up.

The motto of CATCH is the “Church Has Left the Building.” “This year our ministry has changed, and we are trying new things,” says Johnson. “On March 28, we hosted ninety-nine high school teams as far away as Michigan.” The first ever Battle of Chickamauga was an awesome event that left these high school teams feeling that they were professionals on the BASS or FLW Tournament Trail. It was more than just a weekend of fishing for six young people at the tournament. These six high school students accepted Christ that weekend. The tournament set the bar really high for other high school tournament trails.

CATCH has been asked to duplicate the same tournament in other cities in the state. “We are honored to be asked to do this because of the results we saw at this tournament,” says Keith Gombash, vice president.

The results Gombash refers to is not the ninety-nine, but rather the six.

A Desire to Serve CATCH is planning to

go on their first mission trip to the Heart of Florida Youth Ranch in Citra, Florida, this month. “Our heart has always been to reach out to the hurting,” says Gombash.

“This is what God has laid on our hearts as Christians. We must love our neighbors,” said Gombash, who has been a huge driving force in looking for new opportunities to showcase CATCH’s unique way of ministry.

Matthew 25:40 says, “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me (KJV).

Although CATCH is well known among the local bass fishermen in the Chattanooga area for their expertise in putting on a great bass tournament, it is their desire to be known for reaching out to the lost and hurting. Gombash stresses that you don’t have to have a boat or even be a fisherman to be a part of CATCH; all you have to have is a desire to serve. As the ministry grows, CATCH wants people to be aware of their desire to serve and to share Jesus. Look for CATCH Ministry on Facebook and check out their web site at catchminstry.net.

Mark Wells and Kelly Hixson are members of CATCH Ministry.

Mark and Kelly love to give their testimonies and can be reached on Facebook.

issuu.com/goodnewscm // 29

Gò0dNews for Everyone

May the Best Choir Win

by Kendra Steveson

F

or many years, my family has been involved in

technical issues. Their microphones stopped working,

our local school’s show choir. It began in 2007

and we could not hear their vocals. Knowing all the

when my son made the Revolution Show Choir at

hard work that goes into competition, my heart broke

Lake Forest Middle School. After struggling in the begin-

with compassion for them. It was devastating knowing

ning of middle school, he found a refuge in this group

all their hard work had been in vain. I began to pray for

of great kids. Later, his sisters also became involved in

each choir. I asked God to please let every choir do its

show choir, and as a family, it became our passion.

absolute best in the competition and to please honor the

Every February we spent our weekends traveling to surrounding states to

hours of dedication they had invested in using their talents.

watch show choirs compete and

After praying, my anxiety subsided, and

watching our own kids perform.

I began to enjoy the competition. I was

After practicing for months, we were often rewarded with first-place titles.

As the kids progressed to high

moved to tears by our show and blessed by all the performances. I wished that all the choirs could

school and became part of the Vocal

win. Truthfully, God had given

Motion Show Choir, it became more

me a grateful and humble

difficult to place in the competition.

attitude, and I would have been

This choir had faced some challenges

thrilled with the outcome.

and changes in leadership, so though

When the winners were

the kids were committed to performing

announced, imagine my surprise

their best, they rarely placed above third or

and joy when my daughter

fourth place

received the solo award! After

As my oldest daughter entered her third

years of competing and never

year with Vocal Motion, we had hopes of

winning, she had been chosen as

our hard work paying off and improv-

the winner. My joy multiplied

ing our placement in the competitions. My second daughter was

when we learned that our choir had placed first and won the

participating in the choir too.

championship trophy! This was the

We agreed it would be great

first time in Vocal Motion’s history that

if we could win at least first runner-up! Our show was beautiful and artistic, telling the Biblical story of the Prodigal Son. Our first show in Montgomery, Alabama, went well, but we did not make

it had won a grand championship!

The lesson I learned this year was simple: keep showing up and honoring God with your talent, and eventually, you will be rewarded!

the finals. Tensions were high as we entered our second competition of the season in Nashville, Tennessee.

The first choir we heard perform in Nashville had

30 // May 2015

Kendra Steveson is the wife to a fantastic man and mother to five talented children. She is passionately devoted to Jesus, chocolate, and her job at the Bradley County Health Department as a breastfeeding counselor. She is a member of Cleveland Cornerstone Church and loves to read and write!

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Gò0dNews for Couples

"B

Putting God First

by Shell Underwood

ut Ruth replied, ‘Don't urge

demand, as well as issues my team faces

to learn to talk to one another because

me to leave you or to turn

daily, it gets busy in my office to say the

neither of us had very good role models

back from you. Where you

least. Shell and I are twelve hours apart;

as kids. We have learned everything the

go I will go, and where you stay I will

my mornings is her evening, which

hard way. Here are eight tips we have

stay. Your people will be my people and

means she has much to share with me

found along the way from books and

your God my God’ ” (Ruth 1:16 NIV).

while I am getting my day moving for-

mentors and even counseling sessions.

This scripture was also my desire

ward. This is an obstacle for us that we

1. Find a way to communicate every-

until one day my husband took a job

sometimes have an issue working past.

day. Get creative if they work out of the

that was out of town and I could not go

By nature, I am a fixer. One of the harder

country or in a place where the inter-

with him. Anyone who has known An-

lessons I have had to learn is that Shell

net is hard to use. Work around your

thony and me from the beginning knows

just needs me to listen and not always

schedules and have a set time to talk so

it started pretty wild and bumpy. We are

try and fix what she is sharing with me.

that you can talk without having distrac-

both strong willed and driven individu-

“Often I think I can understand

tions.

2. Don’t always gripe about the bad

als. We have three beautiful children

how God must feel; I have to make

together, and he has two successful

decisions all day; then, when I speak

things, but when there is something that is

children from his first marriage.

with my family, I have to listen and not

bad, really listen. (You don’t have to fix it.)

3. Be Patient. Listen through the yell-

As you can imagine, the blending of

try and repair. God brought me a mate

our family has been a struggle. To make

who is strong and capable of managing

ing. Most of the time the tone of voice

matters more difficult, after three succes-

our home with me a world away. I must

either starts the argument or makes the

sive local layoffs, he called an old buddy

constantly allow Him to whisper in my

situation worse. Sometimes people just

from the Marine Corp to help him find

ear, Relax, she has this. I know; I made

need to yell. Don’t take it personally.

a job. That led to many times he was out

her.”

of town for a month at a time.

Anthony said, “The Lord has

Anthony and I are not alone.

According to one source 3.75 million

4. Take up a hobby together or read a book together, so that when you do talk, you can talk about that.

5. Date your spouse when you can. You

blessed me with a beautiful and strong

married couples are in a long-distance

wife; our children are healthy and smart,

relationship. Probably the hardest thing

have an advantage that most married

and professionally, I have achieved far

about his working halfway around the

couples do not. You get to miss one

more than I ever expected. God's hand

world is that we are in

another. You get a honeymoon period

has been on me all my life. Working in

two totally different time

every time he comes home.

6. Support each other over the distance.

International Oil and Gas

zones, and it’s extremely

in management means

difficult to communicate.

If he ends up dealing with everything

many things are processed

Over the past eleven and

alone, eventually he will not need you.

through me. From subsea

a half years, we have had

operations, upstream

7. Do have a social life. Facebook is not a social life. If you don’t know where to start, volunteer at your church or a community organization.

8. Put God first in your life. The closer you are to Him, the closer you will be to each other.

32 // May 2015

Shell Underwood is a lifetime educator. She taught in Murray and Whitfield County Schools for 14 years as a science and math teacher. She has just opened a new Financial Planning office with Modern Woodmen of America in Dalton and she continues to volunteer in the local city and county schools with the Readers to Leaders program.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

I

Hoarding

by Esmerelda Lee

n my profession, I have had the honor of meeting many different people from diverse organizations.

Recently, I have seen a rise in advocates and organizations whose job is to advise seniors. These companies specialize in reducing clutter and moving items just for seniors.

One thing is for sure: people do accumulate stuff!

Frequently, when entering the home of an older adult, family members may find piles of magazines, newspapers, an assortment of to-go containers, and a refrigerator filled with items that may be expired. Some of this is due to the fact that many of these amazing people have experienced times in their lives when they had to conserve and to live frugally.

However, when does being frugal turn into hoarding? Hoarding is becoming an increasing issue with many people.

In fact, on television there is now a show specifically called “Hoarders.”

Recently I read an article written by the Mayo Clinic that depicts hoarding as a disorder.

Hoarding was defined by the Mayo Clinic as “persistent difficulty in parting with possessions because of perceived need to save them.” Hoarding is seldom noted by the person who is hoarding items; in fact, many times people laugh this off as a joke.

Hoarding begins slowly. People begin with small items; for

34 // May 2015

example, keeping the crackers left on a restaurant table, or perhaps stockpiling grocery bags. The intent is the thought that these items may be needed in the future.

Soon, the open counter, floor, or storage spaces are filled with books they will never read, bags they will never use, and piles of newspaper that now have a life of their own. At times, some of these items have emotional significance that serve as a reminder of happier times. However, like any habit, when in abundance, this disorder can become unhealthy. Newspapers and paper products pose a fire hazard. Piles of magazines, books, and other items can become a safety hazard.

Recently, I had the task of personally going through my late mother-in-law’s belongings. It was an emotional and overwhelming task. But I have to admit how relieved I was to note that even though I found many of her poems, scribbles, and sweet sayings, there was only one bag of trash. The items she held on to were minimal, mainly because she had taken the time to reduce her belongings.

One of my hobbies is going to estate sales. It is always so moving to see items sold that were once treasured. Often, most of the items that show major wear and tear are thrown into the garbage by strangers. There are many reasons people hold on to these items: some fear they will run out of an item; others have anxiety when attempting to discard items; and many are ailing in their physical and mental health. However, it is important for people who love and support each other to assist each other in making the decision to reduce clutter and live simply.

The truth is: most of our possessions will be ours for only a limited time. I would rather be the one making the decision on gifting my possessions to those who would love and appreciate them as I have. And, if I do not have that great opportunity, I pray I can live simply so that my family members are left with only meaningful items they will treasure.

Esmerelda Lee is campus manager for Garden Plaza of Cleveland, an independent and assisted living facility for seniors. She and her husband Andrew have three children.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Getting Out There

by John Garrod

I

’ll be heading back out there soon.

twenty-three years in West Central

depths of the earth and the mighti-

Wish me luck, because I need it.

Florida, and that might explain it.

est mountains.” These beautiful

But I don’t believe that’s it.

hills and rivers are said to even be

They taunt me, you see, and

it’s cruel. They come up right next

I’ve heard explanations of how

a source of praise for God in Psalm

to me, in front of me, all around me.

mountains were formed by erosion,

98:8: “Let the rivers clap their hands

They don’t say a word (thank God I

wind, volcanoes, Big Bangs, just

in glee! Let the hills sing out their

haven’t slipped that far), but none-

about every option short of Marvin

songs of joy” (NLT).

theless, the teasing is real.

the Martian’s ray gun—anything

The songs we sing worship of

to avoid giving credit where it is

Him are full of references to nature’s

this year. Fortunately for them, I’m

due. But I believe not only did my

beauty. The words of “How Great

not really there to catch them, or I’d

God form these mountains, but in

Thou Art” resonate clearly, espe-

probably resort to the old dynamite

one of the sweetest gifts of all, He

cially when I am actually walking

and dip net method. No, I’m really

also placed within us an ability to

through the woods, hearing the

there for something better. The fish

see Him in them. Why else would I

brook, looking down from lofty

would just be an added bonus; the

be filled with awe at the view from

mountain grandeur. It is as if God is

second-hand fly rod is just an excuse

the top of Chilhowee Mountain or

saying to me, “See what I made for

to stand out there in the cold water.

from the rocks in the middle of the

you to enjoy?”

Stupid trout. I’m gonna get ’em

I’m here for the artwork, and

Conasauga River? Why would the

more importantly, the Artist. Maybe

sight of mere changes in elevation

o-fish meal at the golden arches on

it’s just because I grew up as a “flat-

stir any feeling at all if not for an in-

the way home, I’m not as disap-

lander” along the coast of Southeast

nate hunger for connection with the

pointed as you might think. I’ll be

Texas, where the only discernible

Architect who designed it?

back out there again as quickly as I

changes in elevation involve bridges

The Psalms are filled with refer-

or overpasses. We grow a lot of

ences to the fact that the beauty of

rice in the flat fields that stretch to

nature is His creation. Psalm 95:4

the horizon. Follow that up with

says “He holds in his hands the

36 // May 2015

So if the only fish I get is a Filet-

can get there—and not just for those stupid trout.

John Garrod is a father of 6, husband of 1, Army veteran, and a resident of Tennessee for the past 4 years. He is a member at South Cleveland Church of God.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Learning to Be Content

by Kelly McDonald

“I

know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:12-13 NIV).

At times we desire to have something that is new or state of the art. We think about a new job, a better car, or a bigger and better house. The urge might arise to move to another city or town. We think that by changing our environment, somehow this will change the way we feel. This can happen out of frustration. In Philippians 4:12-13, Paul speaks of learning to be content despite our situation.

Consider the context of Paul’s words. He was writing this from a prison. The temptation for Paul (or anyone) is to complain. Yet, in the middle of a tremendous trial where he is chained and malnourished, he is still focused on God. So often, we focus on our outward environment. We believe that if we could just change this or move away from that, then we would have contentment. The new environment will satisfy us for a season, but we will still be frustrated.

The key is to have an inward change. When these inward changes occur, our outward environment will not matter. This involves two steps: First, we must turn our focus away from the appearance of our outward environment. Our thoughts must

38 // May 2015

be focused upward. Ask God for wisdom and understanding about every situation. Sometimes our natural discontentment is because of spiritual discontentment.

God designed us to need to be in contact with Him. No amount of physical things will satisfy that need. Ask God to fill you up and show you where your spiritual life needs adjusting.

Secondly, you must acknowledge where you are now. This is not a lack of faith or denying where God can take you. Five times in Philippians 1, Paul acknowledged that he was in chains. God is in control of everything. He knows what you are going through now. He is aware of it. Learn to see God in your situation with the inner hope that He directs your future. For instance, learning to love your work will help you find contentment in life. That can apply to any situation. Your situation is a revelation of what He is doing right now and what He will do in the future. He always prepares us for the next phase of His plan.

Consider Noah and the flood. In the process of wiping out the world with a flood, God was preparing it for a fresh start. God is preparing you for the next phase of His plan for your life. If Paul can be content in prison, then we can be content in our situation. It just takes a change of perception. These simple steps will help us learn to be content.

Kelly McDonald, Jr. is an ordained evangelist with Hungry Hearts Ministries. He has written 15 books and booklets on Christian Living. www.hungryheartsministry.com

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

A Vessel Fit for Use O

by Mindy White

n one of our family vacations we stopped and

or silver, but God chooses the simple and turns it into

watched a local artist form a clump of clay

something beautiful.

into the beginning stages of a piece of art-

There are some beautiful vessels in the world, but

work. He molded and shaped the clay and turned it into

are they useful? I have never used my cup. It sits on a

what would eventually become a beautiful cup. Want-

shelf and is only admired. Right now it is empty and

ing to purchase a similar item to take home, I searched

useless, but it has potential. Sometimes we have to do

the shelves for the prettiest cup I could find. I looked at

a little house cleaning. If we are filled with the wrong

several pieces before eventually deciding on the one I

things, there is no room for the things God has for us.

wanted.

Second Timothy

Philippians 4:8 instructs us: “Finally, brethren,

2:20-21 states, “But in a

whatever things are

great house there are not

true, whatever things are

only vessels of gold and

noble, whatever things

silver, but also of wood

are just, whatever things

and clay, some for honor

are pure, whatever things

and some for dishonor.

are lovely, whatever things

Therefore if anyone cleanses

are of good report, if there

himself from the latter, he

is any virtue and if there is

will be a vessel for honor,

anything praiseworthy—

sanctified and useful for the

meditate on these things”

Master, prepared for every good

(NKJV).

work” (NKJV).

Many times we want to look

Want to be cleansed? Want to be made fit for use? Want to

like my cup, when all God is look-

be used as a noble vessel? Ask

ing for is a vessel that is fit for use.

Him. We need to stop looking

We think we have to look a certain

at the vessel and look at what is

way before we can come to God or before God can use

inside the vessel. When we look at what is inside the

us. All we really need to do is say, “Here I am,” and just

vessel, we are looking at God and what He can do. He

let God cleanse us.

died on the cross to save the world and make it noble

Scripture didn’t point out which types of the vessels were the vessels of honor. Was it the gold, the silver, the wood, or the clay? The world would choose the gold or

and presentable before the Father.

Let Him clean you up, fill you up, and make you a vessel useful for noble purposes.

the silver. God chooses the wood and the clay and turns it into the gold and silver. Man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart (see 1 Sam. 16:7). Man thinks the vessel must start out as the gold

40 // May 2015

Mindy White and her husband Robert have been married for 20 years. They have 3 kids, Brittain, Noah, and Alaina. She is a member of Cornerstone Church of God where she is the ladies ministry president.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Redneck Slaw

by Jonathan Dobbs

Ingredients: • Package of slaw mix

• 2 green onions—chopped

• Cherry tomatoes-(halved)

• 1 jalapeno pepper—chopped no seeds • 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard • 2 tablespoons of mayo • 1 teaspoon of vinegar • 1 teaspoon of sugar

42 // May 2015

Instructions:

Mix together and add salt and pepper to taste. Put in the fridge for a hour.

Then serve!

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Love Is Time: Sacrificing for the Other

by Richard Gamble

L

et me ask you a question. Has this ever happened

that it goes against everything God has commanded us

to you? You have really needed to go somewhere,

to do. Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish

but right before you leave, a friend (we will call

ambition or empty conceit, but with humility of mind

him Fred) drops by or gives you a call. Fred starts

regard one another as more important than himself; do

making conversation as you slowly inch toward the

not merely look out for your own personal interests, but

door. You can tell he needs to talk about something but

also for the interests of others” (NASB). We are called to

is afraid to bring it up. At any other time, you would

love sacrificially. And if this is the case, then we must be

consent to talking with him, but you really need to go.

willing to devote our time to others even if it is inconve-

You say, “I hate to do this, but I have got to go. We will

nient to us.

talk later” Fred says, “Yeah . . . okay that’s fine.” He reluctantly leaves so that you can go.

Something like this has happened to me a few times, and usually the Holy Spirit convicts me about it.

Jesus gives us the perfect example of what I am talking about. In John 3:22 we see that Jesus spent time with His disciples: “After these things Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He was spending time with them and baptizing” (NASB).

This is the question we must ask ourselves: “Was I really

Because Jesus loved His disciples, He

showing love to that person in that situation?”

spent time with them. We also see

In our culture, time is a currency. What we devote

Jesus dining with sinners and tax col-

our time to reveals to us what we love. I guess you

lectors (see Mark 2:16). Now surely

could call time one of our major “love languages.”

Jesus could have devoted His time

Our culture, however, also operates out of an individualistic worldview, which causes us to routinely act out of a sense of self-love. Think about it! If time

to things that would build up His public image; instead, He chose to love the unlovable by spending time with them. In fact, spend-

is our love language and if we

ing time with sinners is one

love ourselves, then it follows

of the reasons the Jewish

that we will devote our time to

leaders wanted to discredit

ourselves or to something that

Him.

benefits us. You can definitely see this worldview in the scenario presented above with

Follow His example and love others by sacrifice your time!

Fred.

The major problem with assuming this worldview is

44 // May 2015

Richard Gamble received his B.A. in Bible and Theology from Lee University and is currently pursuing graduate studies at Lee. He is a tennis teaching professional at Manker Patten Tennis Club in Chattanooga and a volunteer blog writer for Transform Student Ministries. He and his wife Courtney reside in Cleveland and are expecting their first child in June 2015.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Kaleidoscope “When we pray, the heart of God and man align.”

B

by John Thomas

ecause of our humanity, we are not shielded, nor are we able to escape the issues of pain, hardship, and suffering that awaits every mortal being. The beauty of our relationship with God is how His grace and power works through the frailties of our lives, displaying His manifold power in the deepest and darkest valleys of our human experience.

People who live outside of this alignment constitute the majority of mankind that derive a vocabulary of words with seemingly universal application. For example, the word bad, in the sense of badness, is the opposite of good. If I say to you that I am good, you would not think bad. However, the carnal words used by man are irrelevant and pale to a spiritual lexicon and perspective. Only when we are in alignment with God and view Him through the lens of faith do we regard our life and circumstances differently. In Christ we trust in a broader picture, which is not judged by what is happening but rather in what He is making.

Thus, we must receive all things in sanctity, conforming to His will and purpose.

In other words, if my neighbor, a non-believer, reached out to God after suffering a near fatal accident, then what was bad was actually good. Better to enter heaven with one eye than go to hell with two.

By definition, kaleidoscope is a complex pattern of constantly changing colors and shapes. God is never changing, but we are ever-changing through the inescapable impact of life. In this journey of our faith, we

discover that God is greater than all of our sin, shame, fears, and failures. When aligned with Him, the kaleidoscope of our life is constantly changing, being refined, conformed, and renewed.

Andre Crouch’s song says, “If I never had a problem, I wouldn’t know God could solve them.” And Psalm 38:5 reminds us: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” (NKJV).

I have known crises in my life as many of you have. Most were by my own doing, but at other times I was blindsided. In frailty and fear we want to give up and quit.

When life and its mysteries comes crashing in, we feel hopeless and helpless.

Your faith says, “A festering thorn can break you, but with God it can make you.”

You may be encircled this very moment with bewildering adversities of life that are troubling you're very life. Others with carnal eyes and fleshy thoughts will tell you how to feel, what to do, and how to act. In that moment you must remember, at your worst He found you, and now you must align to His ever-changing design for your life.

When God surrounds you, even in the presence of your enemies, your cup will overflow. You learn that indeed He works all things together for good, conforming you to His image. What some meant for evil, God meant for good for you to be transformed, renewed, and changed.

As vessels of clay we can’t hide our cracks, blemishes, and scars. Rather, we are to reveal His grace within, showing that this all-exceeding power is from God and not from us.

46 // May 2015

John Mark Thomas & his wife Angelia live in Clarksville TN. He is a funeral home chaplain and pastor of The GROVE fellowship. They have 3 children; Stephen, Hailey, & Allison.

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ò0 Mission Statement:

W

e believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they 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.

Christian Magazine

Writer Guidelines: Who: Our writers range from pastors,

professors, and professional writers to stay at home moms and dads, business professionals, and others who have a desire to 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 fernando.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.

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48 // May 2015

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Selling Your Home?

Wa y s t o G e t Yo u r H o m e R e a d y t o S e l l .

W

by Tracie Smith

hen a home is for sale, the goal is to make it as attractive as possible to potential buyers.

Remember, you only have a few minutes once they walk inside to make a lasting impression.

Here are a few suggestions: De-clutter. Begin by purging each room by at least 30 percent, and pack up most of those knickknacks.

If you haven’t used it in a year, chances are you don’t need it. Sell or give those items away. Things you want to keep, box up and find a neat place for them and make sure to label the box. Think of this process as a head-start on the packing you will need to do eventually. The main items to focus on will be your kitchen, bathroom, closets, and common areas. Your kitchen counters should be free of all items unless it’s a plant or decorative item. After you clean out cabinets, you will be able to store the coffee maker and toaster underneath.

A good trick is to step back and take a picture of each room to see if anything is an eyesore. This is what the listing pictures will look like, and then you will need to remove those items as well. After this process, you will just have to do a quick clean-up every night to be able to show the house on a short notice the next day.

Make minor repairs. Fix those squeaky doors; change out a light fixture; clean carpets; paint the front door; replace all light bulbs, make sure your mailbox

50 // May 2015

numbers are visible; repair caulking, and replace dripping faucets. If kitchen cabinets are scuffed, paint and replace the hardware. Buy a new shower curtain and rug for the bathroom if needed.

Remove or replace items. If a home is crowded with the owners’ stuff, buyers will assume that the house is too small for their possessions as well. If you have large furniture, it will be best to store a few items. You will want the buyers to be able to see how their furnishings will work, and if you have oversized furniture, this will weigh the room down. Don’t leave too many family photos out. Take the leaves from dining room tables, and store all the cookware and dishes you can. The cabinets should be clutter free and clean.

You might want to invest in a small storage unit for packed boxes and furniture. New light fixtures are a cheap way to update those rooms as well; just watch out when buying the brands that only allow low-wattage bulbs.

Increase the curb appeal. Many buyers will not come inside if they do not like what they see on the outside, so it’s very important to have good curb appeal.

Pressure wash if needed, trim hedges, wash windows inside and out, paint faded trim, keep lawn mowed, plant flowers, and add bright flowers in a pot by the front door. New mulch is a must. Make those buyers want to come inside to see the rest of your home.

Clean and make your home sparkle. You will need to go room by room to clean and wipe down every surface, or hire a cleaning service to come in for all the deep cleaning. Remove all pet odors. Make sure carpets have been cleaned. Plug in light air fresheners in a few rooms.

Before your potential buyer arrives, open all blinds and turn on all lights.

This process usually takes seven to ten days, but once completed you will be less stressed about showing your home, and it will make the selling process easier for getting top-dollar at the closing table. I will be happy to come visit to see if your home needs anything before you decide to list it.

Tracie Smith has been a realtor for nine years and lived in Chattanooga over fifteen years.

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Gò0dNews from the Outdoors

The Voice

by Craig Gray

I

n that deep darkness right before the sun comes up

a deer, every hunter is a stump, and to a turkey, every

when, even in the dim light, you can see your breath

stump is a hunter. They can spot an imposter from an

and hear every crunching step on last year’s autumn

incredibly long distance, and their keen hearing discerns

leaves. Perfectly silhouetted mature oaks rise all around you, and you can see the last light of the stars stitching

the calls of a female locating a hen.

The woodsman must continue moving stealthily to-

the night to the dawn. But you are not here for sightsee-

ward the strutting tom while learning to call like a seek-

ing. Your anticipation is building as you wait for the

ing hen. He must vocalize with the correct intonation,

telltale sound that will blast at first light—that gobble of

accurate patterns, and be patient enough to let the tom

Meleagris gallopavo, the Eastern Wild Turkey, the largest

move off his strutting spot to find that hen purring the

game bird in North America.

gentle putt, putt, putt. If he is suspicious at all, he simply

In the right conditions, the gobble of a strutting tom

will not move. More often than not, when that tom hears

turkey can be heard over a mile away. There are few

something not quite right, he scoots off into the deep

hunting events more exciting than hearing the thunder-

wood without a sound, leaving the caller behind.

ous vocalizations of a spring turkey. But lest you think

I’ve often marveled, especially after a failed excur-

that all one must do is simply head in that direction in

sion, at the remarkable ability of this bird to discern the

order to harvest this magnificent bird . . . think again.

truth from a liar. Wouldn’t cultivating this same abil-

Unlike the woodsman seeking whitetail deer, where

ity in our spiritual lives be wonderful? We know from

the general strategy is to find a location with deer signs,

Scripture that “The devil walks about like a roaring lion,

setup a stand, sit and wait, getting to a wild

seeking whom he can devour “(1 Pet. 5:8 KJV). He is the

turkey involves knowing his language.

caller, and he has used eternity to hone his skills, calling

Wild turkeys can run up to 22

us into dangerous situations in ways that seem perfectly

mph. They have incredible

natural. He does it from hidden locations that we never

hearing and a 270-de-

would expect. Jesus, though, comes right through the

gree field of vision.

door of the proverbial sheepfold. He doesn’t have to call

There is a say-

us from hidden locations because He knows who we

ing that to

are, and what is good for us. “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life” (John 10:27 KJV).

Remember whose you are, and you will know His voice. That gentle call leads to safety, life, and abundance.

52 // May 2015

Craig Gray lives with his wife Susie and their six kids in Cleveland, TN. He is the chief information officer for Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina, and an avid outdoorsmen.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Carriers of Good News

by William Lamb

“A

nd if you give even a cup of cold water to one of

year-old kid, they were clearly the down and outers, and,

the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded” (Matt. 10:42 NLT).

in most cases, had paved their own road to desolation.

My parents loved and cared for the outcast and taught their children to do the same. One particular day in 1969 proved to me that I, too, could be a carrier of good news. Being an overly energetic child, I usually had to work off some energy. So that afternoon, my mom loaded me down with a bucket of popcorn and cups in one hand and a jug of Kool-Aid in the other. Then, she opened the door and pointed up the long driveway to a man dressed in blue. He was wearing a badge and holding a gun. With my eyes glued on the bluesuited cop, I walked past the group of convicts, careful not to drop the bucket or spill the jug. After handing the drink and snack to the guard, I ran back to safety of my mom who was watching my every step. For the next few days, I remember standing on the chair peering out the window at the team of ditch-diggers. Four decades later, I still find myself peering out the window looking for the outcast, the broken, and the hurting.

In the March issue of GoodNews, I asked readers to identify existing needs, to think of ways they can meet those needs, and to start the process of serving others. Go

I was five years old when my life changed forever!

In 1964, I was born into the family of a Pentecostal pastor and a God-honoring Mom. I was destined to greatness, at least that is what my parents told me. “You can be anything you want to be,” still echoes in my mind when I think of my parents. They are in heaven now.

Dad pastored small churches utilizing his carpentry skills to build up the church both structurally and spiritually. Then, Dad would move to another smaller congregation to “build-up” again. Watching this cycle, I witnessed my parents’ care for others. They taught their children to do the same. In most cases, the others were the “down and outers” (as Dad called them). You know the crowd; it’s the one that Jesus identifies in Matthew 25.

In 1969, God’s design for my future became clear. In those days, the convicts, as they were commonly called, would do free labor as part of their restitution to society.

On this particular day, the ditch along the driveway from the parsonage to the church was lined with men, young

“Four decades later, I still find myself peering out the window looking for the outcast, the broken, and the hurting.“

and old, all dressed the same. They wore white uniforms with a broad blue stripe down the pant leg and the letters CCC (Chatham County Corrections) in large, blue print across the back of their shirts. From the lens of a five-

54 // May 2015

ahead; look out the window and find your opportunity to be a carrier of good news.

Dr. William Lamb is a member of the administrative staff at Lee University (Cleveland, Tennessee) where he leads a diverse and global “service-learning” program for college students. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. William and his wife Angela, along with their children Tyler and Megan, Nick, and Ben, reside in Cleveland, TN.

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