Gò0dNews December 2020
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
®
ROME
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Andrea Kellum Andrew Lee Bekah Prytherch Bill Fortenberry Charles Howell Deana Thompson Deck Cheatham Janise Copeman Jimmy Bryant Karen Jeffery Kaye Stein Laura Asbury Linda Ray Center Lisa Hamilton Pam Walker Zebbie Brewster
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throughout the community in retail establishments,
PUBLISHER
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David Thompson Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
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Contents DECEMBER 2020
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 Don’t Forget The Baby by Jimmy Bryant
GoodNews for Kids
8 The Greatest Gift by Bekah Prytherch
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 What’s Your Net Worth by Andrew Lee
GoodNews for Men
12 Men And Their Toys by Charles Howell
GoodNews for Women
14 A Delightful Transition by Andrea Kellum
GoodNews for Everyone
18 The Living Word of God by Lisa Hamilton
GoodNews for Everyone
20 The Ultimate Gift by Karen Jeffery
GoodNews Cover Story
22 LINE-X of Rome GoodNews for Everyone
24 What’s In Your Treasure Chest?
by Janise Copeman
GoodNews on Fear
26 Fear, The Final Frontier by Kaye Stein
GoodNews for Everyone
28 Remember When? by Jimmy Bryant
GoodNews on Peace
30 Walk In Peace
by Linda Ray Center
GoodNews Health for Moms
32 Doctor On Call: Questions
6
About Breastfeeding
by Laura Asbury GoodNews for Everyone
34 God Got The World’s Attention
by Pam Walker GoodNews on Hope
36 Hope In The Lord by Zebbie Brewster
GoodNews for Everyone
38 The Mirror
by Deck Cheatham
22
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Have Yourself A Merry Little...
by Bill Fortenberry GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Baklava
by Deana Thompson
40
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
Don’t Forget The Baby
A
by Jimmy Bryant
re you ready for Christmas? Do you have all your
Is He really with us? What place will He occupy in
Christmas presents bought? Are you cooking
your home and family and mine? This child referred to in
Christmas dinner this year? How many times will
Matthew chapter 1 is none other than the “only begotten
you have to answer those questions this year? With each
Son of God.” God sent His only begotten Son into this sin-
question and each answer, the tension builds. Gradually,
stained world, and this Son of God came into this world
the joy of Christmas turns into the dread of Christmas.
fully aware of what He faced. He lived, loved, suffered,
Why? Does it make us feel inadequate, incompetent, or
and died on a cruel cross for my sin and yours. Jesus had
perhaps like a procrastinator? Of course, hot on the heels of the inquirer’s question is the ever-pressing Christmas dinner menu. The questions will follow: are you baking a ham? Are you roasting a turkey? What sides will you prepare? If constant curiosity is not enough, you must also deal with the family. Of course, your own family will be fantastic, but some in-laws come with the package too. As you try to take it all in, you find yourself wishing it could be just the kids: your kids. You didn’t know anyone knew this much about you, did you? I don’t. It just seems typical to me. You fielded all the inquiries, you did get the menu planned, and you made peace with your heart about your children not being children anymore.
authority over sin, death, hell, and the grave. He arose
However, there is one detail that you have overlooked: what
bodily from the tomb and promised to come back for us one
Christmas is all about. You forgot the baby!
day. If the death of Jesus was payment for the penalty of
Long before the car seat requirement, when our first child was born, he was only a few weeks old. We took him
my sin, then His resurrection was for the assurance of my eternal life.
with us to buy groceries. Returning to the car, I leaned in to
Go ahead and answer the questions. Go ahead and
put the groceries on the seat. Instead, I—thank God—gently
prepare the Christmas menu. Don’t worry; you will handle
tossed the baby in and set the groceries partially on him.
the family, but don’t miss the reason behind all this that we
My heart almost stopped. For just a moment, a critical
call Christmas. Don’t forget the baby who became a man,
moment, I forgot the baby. Matthew 1:18, 23 says, “Now the
died in our place, bodily rose from the dead, and promised
birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary
to return for us one day. Merry Christmas!
was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us.’”
6 // December 2020
About The Author
was found with child of the Holy Spirit…‘Behold, the virgin
Following his 80th birthday and almost 59 years in the ministry, Bryant retired, again. He and his wife of almost 60 years have two sons, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. They make their home in Summerville, Georgia. He is the author of “Confessions of a Baptist Minister.”
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Gò0dNews for Kids
The Greatest Gift
D
by Bekah Prytherch
o you like Christmas presents? Well, I do!
was born or will be born! Everyone can have this
Did you know that there will never be a
gift! And the best part is that it is free for all! All we
Christmas present as great as a Christmas
have to do is receive this wonderful, free gift.
present that we received over 2000 years ago!?!
The greatest gift that I am talking about is
You can think of all the Christmas presents in the
Jesus Christ. He was born of a virgin Mary on that
entire world that would be amazing and cool, but
Christmas night and he came to this world to give us a free gift of eternal life, so someday we can live in heaven with him. He died on the cross for you and for me and He took all of our sins so we could be free! His gift is free to all of us, because he already paid it in full! Have you received this gift from him, eternal life to live forever in heaven? “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
none of them can compare to the one that we got in
This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby
Bethlehem on that Christmas night, when Jesus was
wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger”
born in a manger. Luke 2 tells us about the birth of
(Luke 2:11-12).
Jesus and I encourage you to read this and learn all about Jesus’ birth. I think it is so cool that we all share this gift.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).
Sometimes it’s hard to share things, but this is a gift that we want to share with everybody. Not everybody and everyone in the whole world that
8 // December 2020
About The Author
only do you want to share it, but it is a gift given to
Bekah Prytherch is the children’s pastor at Heritage Fellowship Church of God in McDonald, Tennessee. She is married to her husband, Caleb, and they live in Cleveland, Tennessee.
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What’s Your Net Worth? MONEY MATTERS
WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
T
he question posed in the title of this month’s column has multiple meanings. First, when was the last time you tabulated your own net worth, financially speaking? It’s an important metric, and wealthy and financially successful people know their net worth and monitor it often. Simply make a list of all your debts (liabilities) including mortgages, student loans, car loans, personal loans, lines of credit, as well as any credit card debts, medical bills, and so forth. Then, make a list of all your assets—money in savings, investment accounts, equity/value of real estate owned, cars, personal property, collectibles, etc. Subtract your debts (liabilities) from your assets, and the amount left over (if any) is your net worth. If you have more liabilities than assets, you have a negative net worth (hopefully not). For 2020, the median net worth for U.S. households is $97,300— meaning that half of all U.S. households have a net worth greater than this, while half of households have less. You may have heard this catchy maxim: “Your network determines your net worth.” This means that the people in your life (your network) will play a role in determining how financially successful you are. So, if you spend all your time with people who are financially illiterate or undisciplined with money, you will likely follow suit. But thankfully, we have control over our “network” and can make changes to improve our social connections by “networking”—meeting successful people and emulating their good money habits. Your network, friend group, or social circle do not have to remain stagnant. You always have a choice to reach out to others whom you admire and expand your network over time. After all, I’ve never heard of anyone who had too many friends (except maybe on social media).
10 // December 2020
Finally, let me pose the question again in a different context: “What’s your net, really worth?” What if your “net” includes your sphere of influence, as well as your talents that God has blessed you with, which you can use to “catch” others whom God puts in your path? And what if by using your “net” to “catch” and pour into the lives of these people, you can be a positive influence on others—spiritually, emotionally, and financially? So how far does your “net” reach? Do you spend every week and weekend within the same confined sphere of influence, never reaching beyond your comfort zone, never taking a risk to change your routine and meet new people? What does your “net” end up catching usually? Anxiety? Discontentment? Envy of others? Or does your net catch joy, love, grace, peace, and hope? The lives we reach with our net (gifts, talents, relationships), can reap an abundant harvest both in this life and in eternity for God’s kingdom. Once you’ve “caught” something in your net, what are you going to do with it? You decide. Do you throw it back? Or like the good steward in the Gospels who had ten talents, do you maximize your “catch” to help it reach its fullest potential? And remember, your net definitely includes your finances. How far does your financial net reach? Are you able to give generously to worthy causes? If not, consider making your net stronger by being intentional about your finances: track your spending, commit to save at least 10% of each month’s pay, invest for future growth, and make a regular habit of giving away some money each month. Strengthen your “net” and watch God reward your diligence and intentionality. As the disciples discovered in Luke 5:6, your net may soon be overflowing with blessings!
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Gò0dNews for Men
Men And Their Toys
G
by Charles Howell
eneral Motors recently unveiled its new All-Electric
The Dave Ramsey program recommends having
Super Truck, the Hummer EV. It only lists for
no more than 50% of your annual income in vehicles.
$122,595. It looks amazing, and if I had an extra
Anything with wheels and motors depreciates quickly. You
$122k sitting around, I might buy one! Ford has announced pricing for the new 2021 F-150
model, and the base price is above $30,000. The F-150 line tops out at $75,945 for the four-wheel-drive Limited Super Crew model.
should be “investing” in things that appreciate rather than depreciate. A truck is never an “investment,” even in a business. It is a depreciating asset. If you are married and in debt, you need to be in lockstep with your spouse on the plan to get out of debt and pointed in the right direction to build a better life with money. Do not let an expensive truck get in the way of a better life, one that is in tune with your spouse. Guys, your wife and her sense of safety is more important than an expensive truck. Suppose you have a debt of $25,000 and you have a paid-off Ford F-150 truck worth $30,000. Selling that truck and paying off the debt should be a great step toward a better financial situation. Take the extra $5,000 and buy a good, used truck. It will still meet your truck needs and may drive “better” since you now know you are out of debt!
You probably will not buy the new Hummer EV or
I like to think long term, and in the long term,
a top-of-the-line Ford Super Crew truck, but the reality
when you are out of debt, you can buy that nicer truck
is that many guys still have awfully expensive trucks.
with cash and know that your financial future is not in
They are not $122k, but they often carry a price tag that is
jeopardy. If you stay out of debt, you can save cash for
edging up toward the median income for Americans. The
the next vehicle. When the time has come for a new one,
median household income in 2019 was $68,703. You may
you can pay for it with cash and drive away debt-free.
legitimately need a truck for business, but in most cases, for
Over time, your income will rise, and if you keep your
business purposes, a truck is a truck. A $10,000 truck works
expenses under control, you can afford a nicer truck with
just as well.
each one you purchase.
The cost of a truck can become a big issue when you are in debt. With most Americans managing finances payday
Enjoy your toys, buy them with cash, and take care of your family. That will make you feel like a man.
to payday, an expensive truck sticks out as a target for trimming expenses and saving money. is likely at the top of that list of things that make us feel like a man. Women like shoes: men like trucks.
12 // December 2020
About The Author
Men often score themselves based on their toys. A truck
Charles Howell was trained under the Dave Ramsey Master Coach program. He has been a money nerd all his life. After retiring from a career in Information Technology in 2017, he is pursuing his dream career. Charles lives in Silver Creek, Georgia, and serves clients anywhere in the country.
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Gò0dNews for Women
A Delightful Transition by Andrea Kellum
I
t’s hard making a new transition in life. A new job. A
Lord; humbly, mildly, gently approaching His throne and
new church. A new year. The moment of intense sadness
allowing Him to reshape me into whatever and whomever it
for the thing you may be leaving behind turns into the
is He needs me to be. And my prayer is that in the process,
pursuit of the thing in front of you, and that can be a scary
He continues to be praised before men and nations so the
feeling. Leaving something familiar is not always easy, even
world will see His glory.
if the familiar is not necessarily a great place. I often find myself in places of transition in my walk with Christ, moments when I know He is leading me into a new place in my life that I haven’t been before with Him.
I pray we can become a powerful and strong body of believers who truly DELIGHT in the Lord. I pray the result of that humble, dainty, delicate delight is that our hearts desire only what He desires.
There have been times of giving up something of the old me to better present the new me in Him. There have been moments of discovering something new in His Word that shows me where I need to change to represent Him best. And there have been moments of leaving behind what was familiar to me to venture into what was completely unknown. With all these relational transitions, I see something common: My being broken and molded into what HE needs me to be. It does not always feel good, and it is not always what I would choose for myself, but He knows the exact next move that I need to take. And although I know God is constantly guiding me and shaping me and growing me, I also know that I must be willing to be bent, be reshaped, and submit in order for me to look how He needs me to.
Are you bending with the breaking and allowing Him to
A few years ago, I began asking the Lord for a new
grow you, or are you resisting this change He is working to
word for each year, and one particular recent year, my word was Delight. Psalm 37:4 is the Scripture that overwhelmed
make within you? Change isn’t easy, and life doesn’t always turn out how
my soul to read: “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will
we planned, but if we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, if
give you the desires of your heart.”
we allow God to bend and shape us, then we will reflect
The Hebrew word for delight used in this verse has a meaning that makes perfect sense in how God wants to see our year unfold.
Christ in a way that is designed by our Creator to bring Him glory forever and ever. Will you DELIGHT in Him this year with me?
Delight: soft, delicate, dainty, and my favorite portion of Immediately after reading the Hebrew meaning, I began to picture myself softly falling to my knees before the
14 // December 2020
About The Author
the definition, “to be pliable.”
Andrea Kellum is a former internationally recognized pageant coach who upon a call from the Lord, closed her business to begin teaching God’s Word. She is a devoted wife, homeschool mom, the Founder of Changing Crowns Ministries, author of Warrior Women Prepare For Battle, and the producer and host of Changing Crowns, a discipleship training TV show now airing on the Life Network For Women network available on Roku, Amazon, Apple, and Android devices. You can also follow Andrea’s ministry at ChangingCrowns.com
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Rome Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal Bethel AME Church 22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0019 St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 404-307-7396 Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113
Anglican
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5892
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church of Rome 3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9551
Assembly of God
Redemption Church 105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0277
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7248 Armuchee Baptist Church 6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-3169 Berean Baptist Church 8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-9832 Blue Pond Baptist Church 1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3296 Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9768 Bush Arbor Baptist Church 3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161 770-885-0779 Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4431 Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-1461 Cedar Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0978 Community Chapel Baptist Church 3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4070 Desoto Park Baptist Church 1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-6207 Dykes Creek Baptist Church 3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161 706-291-7790
16 // December 2020
East Rome Baptist Church 601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8553 East View Baptist Church 901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8250 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-3939 Enon Baptist Church 3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-5052 Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147 Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416 First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6850 Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-9976 Flint Hill Baptist Church 3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104 706-232-8121 Friendship Baptist Church 2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-4803 Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-6615 Greater Mount Calvary Baptist 445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-5047 Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8806 Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6642 In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8963 Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2149 Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171 706-232-1917 McFall Baptist Church 3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5673 Mount Alto Church 1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-6222 Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-8777 Mount Olive Baptist Church 17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161
706-234-6413 New Antioch Baptist Church 4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2248 New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706, 291-8939 New Canaan Baptist Church 3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-1984 New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga 706-235-0250 New Hope Baptist Church 399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-0507 North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2100 Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147 Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4431 PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4431 Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga 706-235-2800 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0731 Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165 706-232-6426 Pleasant Valley South Baptist 702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-1841 Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0689 Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8114 State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124 678-988-0339 Saint Paul Baptist Church Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5037 Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-3663 Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172 Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-6174 Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8266 South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-1220 Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7217 Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8132 Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga 706-766-0942 Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3368 Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-8682 Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-2184 West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-1971 West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-9722 Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161 Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4171 Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8729
Catholic
Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7014
Christian & Missionary Alliance
Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165 706-235-9190
Church of Christ
Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0675 Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147 706-234-3027 Oak Hill Church of Christ 1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165 706-291-0351
Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4444
Church of God
Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414 Beech Creek Church of God 3000 Alabama Hwy NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-7466 Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165 706-528-4225 Lindale Church of God 585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147 706-232-5676 New Life Church of God 210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0704 New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4695 North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6687 Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999 West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-880-6895
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161
Episcopal
Church of the Transfiguration 304 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-0197 Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-9111
Foursquare
Rome Foursquare Church 308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161
Full Gospel
Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-7744
Independent Bible
Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165
Interdenominational
Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-4923 Renovation Church 2601 Shorter Ave. Rome, Ga 30165 706-936-1380
Latter-day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2281
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
Beech Creek UMC 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-4973 Chapel Hill UMC 1818 Kingston Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-9177 Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265 Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 Livingston UMC 21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660 Mt Pleasant UMC 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350 New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700 North Rome UMC 706-291-6704 Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084 Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590 Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986 Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161 Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW
Rome, GA 30161 Shannon UMC 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112 Silver Creek UMC 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173 706-234-2518 South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-5230 Trinity UMC 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033 Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164 706-234-6214
Nazarene
Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023
Non-Denominational
Access Church 1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497 Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501 Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045 Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888 Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166 Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864 New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200 Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896 Rally Up International Ministries 1941 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave
Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 246 North 5th Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-2733 The Place Global 1107 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706.802.2059 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 810 East 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158
Orthodox
All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474
Pentecostal
Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001 Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787 Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865
Presbyterian
Covenant Presbyterian Church EPC 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-767-8373 First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630 Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862 Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561
Seventh-Day Adventist
Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0067 Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117
Cave Spring Church Directory
Cave Spring Church of God 19 Mill Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348 Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-777-8360
Live Oak Baptist Church 5506 GA-100 Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566 The Empty Tomb 5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 Rehoboth Missionary Baptist
6 Rehoboth Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313 First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd. Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3566 Cave Spring UMC
30 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8624 Jackson Chapel UMC 301 Jackson Chapel Rd Cave Spring, GA 30125 706-777-3750
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Living Word of God
“B
by Lisa Hamilton
ut as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor
here you go!.” He placed a small book in my hand.
ear heard, neither have entered into the
It was The New Testament with Psalms & Proverbs
heart of
man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God” (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). Last year I mentioned to my mother that I wanted to buy a pocket Bible to give to my husband to bring to work. He has so much responsibility and many important decisions to make each day. Having
pocket Bible from the man at the end of the street! This
God's word to get guidance from would surely help, I
Bible was placed into my hands directly from the hand
thought. Mom agreed it was a great idea.
of God. How beautiful and amazing He is!
A few hours later, I went to pick up my son, Alex, from his high school. I parked a block from the
Psalm 145:16, ”Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.”
entrance and I noticed a man looking in my direction. I wondered who would be standing there. He continued
In loving memory of my momma,
to look directly at me for several minutes.
Roberta May Allen
Proverbs 8:17, “I love them that love me; and those
9-10-40 - 4-9-20
The bell rang and the kids were released. A short time later my son opened the door and said “Hi Mom,
18 // December 2020
About The Author
that seek me early shall find me.” Lisa Hamilton is the author of His Legacy of Love. She lives with her husband and five children in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her passion is sharing the love of Christ. She encourages others to live in obedience to Him to experience the abundant life. Lisa shares devotions, testimonies, and encouragement on her Facebook page (Happyinsing).
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic
relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Ultimate Gift by Karen D. Jeffery
W
ith the holiday season coming up,
him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life”
most of us start thinking of the gift
(John 3:16, The Message).
list for our loved ones. Giving gifts
He loved us so much that He gave us a gift,
at Christmastime is one way of showing we have
the gift of His Son, Jesus, to be the way back to
love and compassion for the people we hold dear
Him. That gift is the best, most amazing, most
to our hearts.
expensive, most valuable gift ever given, and
Just like you, I love to give gifts at Christmas
it was given to us free of charge. The story of
also. I look for ways to give meaningful gifts
Christmas is the story of God’s love becoming real
to others as well. But the real reason for the
and available to each and every person because
celebration is to give Jesus the honor and praise
He loved us enough to give us Jesus. Because He
for what we have reserved as His birthday. It
loved, He gave.
reflects the greatest gift ever given, the gift of a
That’s why at Christmas, we celebrate and
Rescuer, a Savior, the Messiah, the Christ. The real
honor the gift of love that God has given us in
story of Christmas is deeper than the story of the
Jesus Christ. So this Christmas, above all the
manger and the shepherds, the wise men and the
noise, above all the action and activities, above
star. It’s really found in the words of Jesus: “This
all the shopping and shipping and buying and
his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in
20 // December 2020
wrapping, remember this: God loved you so much that He gave you His very best for you. May this thought carry you through this season of generosity.
About The Author
is how much God loved the world: He gave
Karen D. Jeffery loves the Heavenly Father, her family, and her church. Keep looking up Jesus is coming soon.
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LINE-X of Rome by David Thompson
everal years ago, Steve Irmscher was
website, “For over 25 years, LINE-X has led the way
a healthcare consultant who realized
in spray-on protective coating technology and has
he had gone as far as he could. He was
delivered the corrosion-resistant solution to millions
looking for something that was missing in North
of satisfied customers. What started primarily as
Georgia, something he could include his family in,
a bed liner is now being used to cover and protect
something that would allow him to become part of
components from
the community. After Steve bought his first pickup
bumper to bumper,
truck, he discovered that there was no business
inside and out of
nearby to help him with vehicle protection and
your vehicle. From
accessory installation. “I decided if I was going
the everyday ride to
to do anything different, I’d better get to it,” said
extraordinary specialty
Steve. After a lot of research, planning, prayer, and
vehicles, we offer
education, he decided to open LINE-X of Rome.
complete service
LINE-X of Rome specializes in the industry
from beginning
leading spray-in bed liner. According to their 22 // December 2020
to delivery.”
The bed liner can be used to coat more than just truck beds. It can coat and protect almost anything, including trailers, ATVs, utility/service bodies, van interiors, and even patio furniture! LINE-X of Rome also offers undercoating and rust prevention services, trailer and hitch wiring, and truck, Jeep, and car accessories: step bars, grille guards, floor liners, trailer hitches, tonneau covers, toolboxes, and more. Their suppliers include Ranch Hand, LEER, B&W Hitches, Truck
That’s why we carry everything you need to keep
Gear, Weathertech, BedSlide, and hundreds of
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Line-X of Rome’s mission is to provide
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accommodating, friendly service. As they say
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the best in class in everything they do. What
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Not only can you spray LINE-X on anything, but it also comes with a lifetime warranty! So don’t be afraid to get your vehicle dirty, dusty or muddy - you are in good hands. We know you put your truck through a lot on a day to day basis. goodnewscm.com // 23
Gò0dNews for Everyone
What’s In Your Treasure Chest?
W
by Janise Copeman
ith the holidays and Christmas approaching, it
precious to me every day, especially when you just can’t
brought something to remembrance. One day,
drop by to visit or call on the phone. Even our health is
as I was sitting contemplating things, the Lord
so precious when we don’t have it like we used to. All of
showed me a treasure chest a child had and had stored
this got me thinking about what the Lord holds precious
all their prized possessions and trinkets in which he/she
and what He considers to be treasures: earthly treasures
thought were of great value. I remember as a little girl how
versus eternal treasures. What is more important in His
I had a little jewelry box in which I kept a ring, a picture,
eyes: storing up and gaining earthly treasures or storing up
some coins, or things I would find in my yard that I dug up
eternal treasures? Treasure what God treasures.
and thought were a secret treasure.
Now, having things and blessings are not evil; it is the
As we grow up, we may have things we consider
love of money that is the root of evil. It’s when we allow
treasures or of high value. It may be from our childhood, a
those things to take control or become our idols and forget
collectible, a letter or note, a picture of someone, or maybe
who gave it to us and blessed us with it or lose sight along the way as to the temporary riches versus those that last through eternity. Matthew 6:19: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” Matthew 6:21: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” 1 Timothy 6:17: “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.” If you know of Jesus but have never made Him the Lord of your life and allowed Him to be the BEST treasure you will ever find, I
as parents, something our child made for us that is so
encourage you to allow Him to be all that you need or ever
precious to us.
will. Or perhaps you are tired of seeking peace in all the
For some, it may be something even bigger: a new
things of this world and all it has to offer, seeking to find
house, a new car, a trophy, or a degree that got us the job
your joy but just ending up empty; allow Him to fill that
we always dreamed of.
void you are so desperately trying to fill.
were important that don’t seem that important anymore. Time we spent with loved ones who have passed are more
24 // December 2020
About The Author
As we grow older, it’s those things that we thought Janise Copeman lives in Trion,Georgia, is 49 years old, and she is blessed to be married to her soulmate for 26 years. She enjoys reading, writing, and encouraging others by spreading joy and love in the Lord.
Come in on your birthday and receive a free pasta dinner, including our famous house salad and garlic rolls, with spumoni ice cream for dessert.
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Bruce Epperson
Bruce Epperson Bruce Epperson
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Branch Manager
Branch Manager
Cell: 770-548-4550 bepperson@smprate.com
Branch Manager NMLS#: 145526
NMLS#: 145526
504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Cell: 770-548-4550 Rome, GA 30161
GA Residential Mortgage Licensee #26807 NMLS#: 145526 Cell: 770-548-4550
bepperson@smprate.com
bepperson@smprate.com Cell: 770-548-4550 Cell: 770-548-4550 bruce.epperson@fcmhomeloans.com 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 bepperson@smprate.com 504 Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Rome,Riverside GA 30161 Rome, GA 30161 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 404 Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not402 an offer & of credit or commitment to lend. Interest This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available at the time of loan application or loan lock-in. Contact Success Mortgage at the time loan application. Loans are subject to buyer and property First Community Mortgage, Inc. Cash is notreserves acting on behalf of or at Success the Partners, Inc of to learn more about your eligibility for its mortgage products. Loansqualification. are subject to buyer and property qualification. may be required. Rome, GA 30161 direction Partners, of HUD/FHA or the Government. Mortgage Inc is not Federal acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal Government. 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Rome, GA 30161
Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Interest rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available at the time of loan application or loan lock-in. Contact Success Mortgage Partners, Inc to learn more about your eligibility for its mortgage products. Loans are subject to buyer and property qualification. Cash reserves may be required. Success Mortgage Partners, Inc is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal Government. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
(www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not an
Gò0dNews on Fear
Fear, The Final Frontier
C
by Kaye Stein
aptain’s Log: Star Date 2020. We seem to have
or reduce the risk. Then we weigh the rational versus
stumbled upon a unique planet. One like I’ve never
irrational fears, sometimes this is based upon probability.
seen before. The inhabitants seem to be at unrest.
We make our decisions based upon rational fears and
There are sectors seemingly intent on destroying. There
probabilities. With the coronavirus we follow through with
are sectors battling some kind of plague. There are sectors
what the CDC has recommended: taking body temperature,
scattered throughout with inhabitants who seem to have
social distancing, wearing face masks, avoiding touching
some kind of peaceful coexistence tending to their work
the face or eyes, disinfecting surfaces and washing hands
and lending a hand to others. The planet itself seems a bit
frequently. We then weigh the necessity of the exposure.
unstable. We’re getting readings of an active core causing
After we have done all that we know to do to reduce the
unpredictable weather patterns and strange changes in
risk, we make our decision based upon the best information
migratory species. Our mission, to observe and learn.
we have at the time. 12-Step support groups speak to doing
Do you sometimes feel like you're watching a movie
the footwork and turning the outcome over to the care of God
and that this just can’t be real? It seems what we are facing
as you understand him. It truly is an act of faith, believing
in today's times can be overwhelming. Extremists and
that everything will work out the way it’s supposed to. Faith
propaganda skew reality, but what is reality these days.
can give you the courage to walk through your fears with the
The norm that we’ve known for so long is totally out
belief that the outcome will be God’s will.
the window, so to speak which leaves us reaching for a
Put your trust in God’s promises. Jeremiah 29:10-13.
touchstone that isn’t there. Thus it becomes important to
This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for
identify the things that cause your stress and fear. You’ve
seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the
heard the catch phrase “name it and claim it?” It’s the first
good things I have promised, and I will bring you home
step in identifying the issues and making a plan. People deal
again. For I know the plans I have for you”, says the Lord.
with stress and fear differently, but there are healthy and
“They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you
unhealthy ways of dealing with stress and fear.
a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will
How do you deal with the stress of something that you
listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.”
impact you and your world? In helping people deal with their anxiety we focus on what we can control and mitigate
26 // December 2020
About The Author
can’t seem to hear, feel, touch, or taste but can certainly Kaye Stein, native of Chatsworth, residing in Rome is a nurse of 40 years, a mom, and a Nana. A published author who enjoys reading and learning, but mostly family and laughter!
423-503-1410
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SHARE YOUR STORY Everyone has a story to tell. Share yours with us and see how your story can change someone's life.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Remember When? o you ever pull off the shoes of your imagination and let it run barefoot through your mind? I think the modern term for that is reminiscing. Well, a little reminiscing this time of the year is not a bad thing. It will bring us back to our roots, good or bad. Then, we must stop and remember. Speaking of remembering, I can talk to you better about my childhood than I can about what my sermon was last Sunday. Christmas was more laid back and filled with more excitement when I was a boy than it is today. In early December, my mother and grandmother would find a cedar tree, cut it, and nail boards on the bottom to stabilize it. Then came the exciting part. We had strands and strands of big bulb lights with which they adorned the tree from top to bottom. There was not a branch that did not have multiple lights attached. After the lights, we popped popcorn and strung it together with sewing thread and a needle. Silver and gold tinsel would be draped across the limbs. The final touch was some white concoction, and blobs of it would adorn the tips of the tree to look like snow. The presents would eventually find their way under the tree. Then it would be Christmas, and my grandfather would come home from working on the railroad. I remember my grandmother telling me the true meaning of Christmas. The arrival of the Christ child. I remember all that as the “good old days.” What about you? What are some of your Christmas memories? How long has it been since you just sat and let your childhood memories race through your mind? Some will be good memories, and some will be not so good. But it will do you good to spend a little time reminiscing. However, as you reminisce about your childhood, don’t forget the reason for the season. Had it not been for God’s unmerited favor, everlasting love, and enduring faithfulness, there would be no reason for an evergreen Christmas tree, big bulbs, popcorn, tinsel, and snow-capped branches. God, in His great love, sent His only Son into this world. His Son, the baby of Bethlehem, came into this world
28 // December 2020
knowing what He faced. Yet Jesus came anyway and lived, loved, suffered, and died to redeem us from our sin. Then, three days later, He arose bodily from the grave and walked the face of this earth 40 more days. He then went back to His rightful place in heaven to prepare a place for us and now sits at God’s right hand, making intercession for us, waiting to return.
Hebrews 9:11-14: “But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”
About The Author
D
by Jimmy Bryant
Following his 80th birthday and almost 59 years in the ministry, Bryant retired, again. He and his wife of almost 60 years have two sons, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. They make their home in Summerville, Georgia. He is the author of “Confessions of a Baptist Minister.”
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Gò0dNews on Peace
Walk In Peace
“T
by Linda Ray Center
he Lord gives strength to his people;
was determined to buy a condo before I sold my
the Lord blesses his people with
house. I didn’t have peace signing the contract
peace” (Psalm 29:11).
but thought I could sell my existing home before
Do we ever stop longing for peace in our
the deadline. After 30 days, I argued, pretended
world, our choices, or in our relationships? The
to cry, and danced a jig to get my earnest money
Lord’s peace is a supernatural peace that settles
back, but unfortunately, I lost the retainer fee.
the war in our minds. It’s a road sign for our hearts. Additionally, peace allows us to travel down life’s highway and not worry about a deadly crash or getting lost. God is in control, making sure we journey onward. Embracing the love of Christ helps us to walk forward in our relationships with Him and others. I know firsthand how Jesus exchanged my heartache over losing my husband for peace that
I’ve grown a wee bit wiser over the years. The
only He could deliver. Peace of mind is something
key to having daily peace is to seek Jesus like the
we have to pursue daily. A relationship with the
wise men. No matter what comes our way, if we
Prince of Peace, Jesus, allows us to walk in peace.
seek Him, we can walk in peace.
When a financial opportunity arises, I base
Praise God for the birth of Christ who gives us
my decision on having a peaceful answer. It’s
supernatural peace that is not dependent on our
called supernatural peace. Back in my 20s,
strength or the situations around us.
I made financial decisions without praying. wrong, but I pursued it anyway. For example, I 30 // December 2020
About The Author
Therefore, I felt unsure. Something seemed Linda Ray Center is a blogger, motivational speaker, and a relationship builder. Linda and her husband reside in the Deep South. www.lindaraycenter.com.
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Gò0dNews Health for Moms Doctor On Call: Questions About Breastfeeding
H
by Laura Asbury
ow does your dual role as a pediatrician and lactation consultant help moms with breastfeeding? One of the biggest stresses for new moms is breastfeeding. Even though it’s completely natural, it’s not always easy. I’ve seen many tearful moms in my office who were experiencing a painful latch, concerned about their milk supply, or worried about other breastfeeding problems. As a pediatrician who is certified in lactation counseling, I can provide some much-needed support for these moms, and it’s a great way to help my little patients get off to a healthy start. What are some advantages for babies who breastfeed? The advantages of breastfeeding for babies go far beyond filling up a hungry belly. Breast milk is the best food for babies during the first year of life (with the addition of baby foods after six months). In addition to the perfect balance of nutrients to help a baby grow, breast milk helps reduce illnesses like ear infections, pneumonia, and diarrhea, as well as lowering the impact of respiratory illnesses. Breastfeeding helps decrease the incidence of asthma and eczema. The rates of obesity and type 1 diabetes are much lower in breastfed infants as compared to formula-fed infants, and breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and childhood leukemia.
What kind of support do you give breastfeeding moms? I encourage my patients often because they need to hear the effort they’re making for their own health and the longterm health of their baby is the first step in helping them be successful in this endeavor. I tell my patients that breastfeeding is a labor of love because it’s not always an easy, painless journey. Infants often need to be fed every 1-3 hours for the first few weeks of life. This can create mental and physical exhaustion for the mom on top of the fluctuating hormones that occur after delivery. I can offer successful strategies for breastfeeding, address factors that have a negative impact on the motherbaby bond, and support them through difficult seasons which make lifelong impacts for both mom and baby.
About The Author
How can mothers benefit from breastfeeding? There are several maternal benefits of breastfeeding, and lactation plays an important role in a woman’s long-
term health. Breastfeeding can help lower the lifetime risks of metabolic disease often associated with insulin resistance and high cholesterol brought on during pregnancy. It can also reduce maternal obesity and lower the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease (including heart attacks). Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes after developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce a mother’s risk for endometrial, ovarian, and breast cancers. Long-term studies have shown that the longer a woman breastfeeds, the more she can reduce her breast cancer risk, particularly in the most aggressive forms of the disease.
32 // December 2020
Laura Asbury, MD, CLC, is a pediatrician with Beacon’s Children’s Diagnostic Center who has more than 15 years’ experience caring for children and has recently become a certified lactation counselor to give new moms and babies added support in their breastfeeding journey. She earned her medical degree from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine and completed her residency at T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital in Chattanooga.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
God Got The World’s Attention
G
by Pam Walker
od knows exactly how to get our
God got the world’s attention when He sent us
attention. God reaches out to us, and if
His only Son to save us from our sins. Christmas,
we are wise enough to be in the moment,
when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, stands by
we will be aware of His presence. We will be keenly aware when God gets our attention, and we will see it for the phenomenal blessing it is. Every year, instead of New Year’s Resolutions, I decide on a theme for the forthcoming year. Sometimes it is a single word on which I can focus and which will
itself magnificent and unmatched by anything
inspire me in the year to come. One day, in late
that has happened in the history of the world.
August, I suddenly knew what my 2021 theme
Jesus Himself came to dwell among men. With a
would be. “Thrive! Let your light shine and do not
richness like that to celebrate, we could hardly fail
merely survive!” I was very inspired by that and
to know that God got our attention.
wrote about it in my journal. I didn’t just happen think of it. God got my attention. 34 // December 2020
About The Author
to think of that. The Holy Spirit enabled me to
Pam Walker, a native of Rome, is a paralegal at Vaughn & Clements PC in Calhoun. She is a local columnist for the Rome News-Tribune. Pam and her husband, Stan, are members of Dykes Creek Baptist Church in Rome. Readers may email her at pamterrellwalker@gmail.com.
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Gò0dNews on Hope
Hope In The Lord
L
by Zebbie Brewster
amentations 3:22-26: “It is of the Lord’s
that day. Next to verse 26, I had written in my Bible the
mercies that we are not consumed, because
words “depend on Him.”
His compassions fail not. They are new every
Depend on whom, you might ask? Who or what do
morning: great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my
you depend on in your life? Who or what has never let
portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.
you down? I am afraid that I have probably let a lot of
The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to
people down in my lifetime. I am so thankful that the
the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man
Lord forgives me when I fail, and I pray that others do
should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation
also. Sometimes the hardest words to say are, “I am
of the Lord.”
sorry.” I feel when they are said from the heart that
On August 1, 2009, A pastor from our church
there is room for great forgiveness, love, and healing.
preached from these Scriptures. I know only because
There is no better time than now to find that healing in
I outlined the Scripture, wrote His name down, and
your heart. Jesus is as close as a prayer, and He wants
dated it in my Bible. Now, 11 years later, I may not
you to find your hope in Him.
remember exactly what our pastor preached, but I
Let me encourage you to re-read those Scriptures as I did today and find your renewed hope in the
message that I am sure our pastor had prayed over and
mercies of the Lord.
the Holy Spirit had divinely inspired him to preach
36 // December 2020
About The Author
know He preached from the Word of God. It was the
Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
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complete the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROV) E-course. The free course is available at www.ROHVA.org. All SxS drivers should read the owner’s manual before operating the vehicle. Never drive after consuming drugs or alcohol, or on public roads. Driver and passengers must be tall enough for seat belt to fit properly and to brace themselves with both feet firmly on the floor. Passenger must be able to grasp the grab bar with the seat belt on and both feet on the floor. Respect the environment when driving. Talon® is a registered trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2020 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (11/20)
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Mirror
J
by Deck Cheatham
ack dies. He finds himself walking down a dirt lane. In the distance, he sees a gate. As he nears, he sees a man
You loved Daniel and he loved you, but as you grew, you forgot him.” Yes, I did. Again, the image changes. I remember him. He’s the Priest
tending a garden. He’s not sure what has happened. He
in Rome. He toured us around the duomo and prayed for us.
remembers grasping for breath and clutching his chest.
“Yes, he did. And you thought he was a bit strange. You
And now, he is walking down this quiet country lane. Curious, he walks toward the gate.
were also impatient.” Well, I had places to go. Who is he, anyway? “He is the stranger who took you in,
Jack greets the gardener. Hello, sir.
who tried to show you how to live in
“Hello, Jack.” How do you know my name?
the present.
“I know everyone who comes to my
Now, Jack sees two doors.
gate.” What is your name? “Peter.” Is this
I remember those. They’re replicas
the road to Heaven? “Some say so. Some
of doors in Italy. “Would you like to
call it the road of good intention.”
enter?” No. That man might be inside.
Am I in Heaven? “Not yet.” Where
We made a mistake when he asked if we
am I? Is that the Pearly Gate? “Could be.”
would like to see the church and we said
That old rickety thing! “What did you
yes. I thought we would never shake him.
expect?” Well, I thought maybe some gold.
And who is he? “He’s every lonely
“Heaven isn’t what you think.”
person wishing for a kind word and
I’m confused. “Most are.” What’s
someone to value him for who he is.”
next? Do I have to answer some questions
I don’t understand. “The answer
or something? You know, I’m not perfect,
is simple. Your time with Daniel was
but I did give money to the homeless and
when you were closest to God. But
went to church most Sundays. “Not quite.
as time passed, you traveled farther
And I don’t need a resume’. Before
away. The Priest and the docent were
anyone enters Heaven, each must look
angels who crossed your path to
in this mirror.”
show you the way—God speaking to
Jack hadn’t noticed the mirror.
your soul. Peter, I’m not worthy to enter.
Surprised, he felt jitters.
Please forgive me.
“All you must do is look into the mirror. But beware, you will see yourself
At that, the locks fall from the
as you are, not as you think you are.”
gate and Jack is welcomed.
Uneasy, Jack looks into the mirror.
Peter turned to look down the
At first, he sees himself. Slowly, the
road. A man is approaching. Hello, Sir. “Hello, Sam.” How do
image changes and he sees Daniel, the
you know my name?
black field hand from his Dad’s farm. child, Daniel looked after you. He was your guardian angel.
38 // December 2020
About The Author
Why do I see Daniel? “Because as a Deck Cheatham has been a golf professional for some 40 years. He lives with his family in Dalton. He is a guest columnist for the Rome News Tribune, The Daily Citizen, and the Calhoun Times. Email him at pgadeacon@gmail.com.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Have Yourself A Merry Little… hestnuts roasting on an open…” Who am I kidding? I have never once roasted a chestnut, and my fireplace is gas-powered. “Jack Frost nipping at your…” Seriously? I can remember raindrops hitting my nose and sweat dripping off my nose. There was that one Christmas, but the snow melted before dinner, so...
“Yuletide carols being sung by a…” Excuse me, but I believe you’ve mistaken the bearded kid in the skinny jeans for a choir. “And folks dressed up like…” Have you EVER seen an Eskimo wear an ugly Christmas sweater? Me either. If your Christmas doesn’t look like a Nat King Cole song, please, don’t give up. First, remember that for literally half the world, Christmas comes in the summertime. Second, not every choir is the Brooklyn Tabernacle, so maybe it’s best to stick with the bearded kid. I could go on, but I think your time is better spent focusing on celebrating a real Christmas, not some nostalgic version of the holidays. Here are some ideas to help you put Jesus and the Gospel in your Christmas: • Watch “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Linus Van Pelt’s recitation of Luke 2 is a beautiful reminder of what Christmas is all about.
40 // December 2020
• Make a playlist. Music is subjective and nostalgic. My playlist is a combo of standards, childhood memories, carols, and big productions. Some of my favorites: “The Carpenters: A Christmas Portrait”; “Tennessee Christmas,” Amy Grant; “White Christmas,” Bing Crosby; “Handel’s Messiah”; “Christmas Time’s A-Coming,” Bill Monroe; and anything Christmasthemed by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. • Go to midnight Mass. Okay, the coronavirus might not permit that this year, but go if you can. I’m not Catholic, and I don’t understand everything that’s happening in the service, but the solemn reverence and sheer beauty of the service is a reminder that Christmas is a holy night. • Be a kid. Get everybody a toy for Christmas, even the adults. It may be a board game, a ball, horseshoes, or a deck of cards; just make sure you open it while everyone is together and that you actually play. • Make a few phone calls. Family and friends move, but technology has made it easier than ever to stay in touch. If you can’t visit in person, FaceTime your favorite cousin. Kids in other cities? Plan a Zoom meeting with everyone. • Don’t dispense with tradition. Add to it. I love ham for Christmas. My family doesn’t. A few years ago, we adopted the plan to cook everyone’s favorites. Now Christmas dinner is ham and fried chicken and pizza, chocolate chip cookies and chess pie, and mac and cheese and corn on the cob. Everybody eats their favorite meal on Christmas, and it’s awesome! • Take time to reflect. At least once during the season, sit down and enjoy the moment. If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that the unexpected can come at any time. Make the most of this Christmas. Be mindful. Drink in every sight, smell, sound, and taste. You won’t regret it.
About The Author
“C
by Bill Fortenberry
Bill Fortenberry worked 17 years as a newspaper reporter, editor and columnist, and has worked in healthcare communications since 2001. Bill serves as the chairman of the board of managers of Haven Health Clinic for Women and is a men’s ministry leader and small group facilitator at his church, HBC Rome. He and his wife, Lisa, have two children, Ethan and Autumn. A storyteller at heart, Bill writes an occasional blog at kudzudad.blogspot.com.
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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Baklava
A
by Deana Thompson
n infant in a manger. A mother’s face etched with love. A father protectively standing near. A shepherd looking on in awe. Three richly dressed men kneeling
with gifts outstretched. Throw in a bright star and perhaps an animal or two, and you have the nativity scene as St. Francis of Assisi began it in 1223. St. Francis wanted to help people recollect the events surrounding Jesus’ birth as if they were in Bethlehem. He wanted to remind them—almost 800 years ago—that the true meaning of Christmas was not the gifts but the Gift: Jesus. A few years ago, that nativity scene took on a whole new
Ingredients • 4 c. (1 lb.) chopped walnuts • 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1 16-ounce package phyllo dough, thawed • 1¼ c. unsalted butter, melted • 1 c. water
• 1 c. honey
• ½ tsp. pure vanilla extract • 1 tsp. grated lemon zest
meaning for me. I was reading John 10 one day, and verse 10 leaped off the page: “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Although Jesus said this about six months before His death, on that particular day, the nativity scene of His birth came to mind: Jesus, lying in a manger as a newly created human, so that I “may have life.” And not just the struggling, draining, eking-out-each-day-asbest-as-I-could life. It was life “in abundance,” true life oozing from every pore of my body. Yes, Jesus came as our Savior so we could be washed clean from our sins and spend eternity with Him. Yes, Jesus came as our Messiah, the anointed King, so we could have authority over “the rulers of the darkness of this age” (Ephesians 6:12). But Jesus also came that we may have real life in abundance. So for me, the nativity is not just a gateway to the cross. It is also an entrance to a life lived to the fullest.
Instructions 1. Butter a 9x13” baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, toss together the nuts and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Carefully unroll one of the phyllo rolls and begin assembling the baklava. (If you work rather quickly, you will not need to cover the phyllo with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out.) a. Place two sheets of phyllo in the bottom of the prepared dish.
b. Using a pastry brush, brush gently but generously with the melted butter.
c. Sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of the nut mixture on top of the butter. d. Repeat layers (using the second roll of phyllo when the first one is finished) until all the ingredients are used, ending with 6 or more sheets of phyllo on top.
4. Preheat the oven to 350F. Using a sharp knife, divide the baklava into two long rows (cutting all the way through to the bottom of the dish). Then, cut across into four short rows. Then, cut across the squares diagonally to make 16 triangles. 5. Bake for 50 minutes until golden and crisp.
6. While the baklava is baking, combine water and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Stir in vanilla and zest. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes.
7. Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the syrup over it. Let it cool completely before serving. Store uncovered.
42 // December 2020
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TAKE ON THE TOUGHEST TERRAIN WITH THE ULTIMATE SPORT SIDE X SIDE.
TERYX KRX 1000
SPECIAL EDITION TURN ADVENTURE UP A NOTCH WITH A HIGH-GRADE HIFONICS AUDIO SYSTEM.
Kawasaki Kawasaki of Rome of Rome
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Kawasaki of Rome
2853 Alabama Hwy SW Rome, Georgia 30165 706.235.3454 kawasakiofrome.com
KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and The all on-product The Teryx® side x For side can be hazardous to operate. KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Warning: Teryx® sidewarnings. x side canWarning: be hazardous to operate. ScanFor with camera safety: Always a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never operate underAvoid the influence of drugs or alcohol. Avoid your safety: Always wear a helmet, your eye protection and wear protective clothing. Never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol. to view videos, anddifficult stunt driving. extra the careful on difficultThe terrain. Protect theside environment. excessive speeds and stunt driving.excessive Be extra speeds careful on terrain.Be Protect environment. Kawasaki Teryx x side is anThe Kawasaki Teryx side x side is an key features vehicle only, and is not designed, manufactured for use on public streets, roads or highways. off-highway vehicle only, and is notoff-highway designed, equipped or manufactured for use equipped on public or streets, roads or highways. and more. ©2020 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. ©2020 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Scan with camera to view videos, key features and more.
Rome, Georgia
6am-10pm Closed Sunday