July 2022

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Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, 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.

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Contents J U LY 2 0 2 2

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 A Message for Graduates— and Everyone

by Chris Mullis

GoodNews for Kids

8 J-U-L-Y = Family Fun

by Brenda Dedmon

GoodNews Money Matters

10 Keeping it Real

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men

12 Belonging With Boldness:

Biblical Community Building

by Christopher Schelich GoodNews for Women

14 Choices

by Linda Ray Center

GoodNews for Couples

18 The Red Carpet in Marriage

by Carl W. Corser

GoodNews for Everyone

20 Do You Need a Rest from Your Vacation?

by Alan D. Hix GoodNews Cover Story

22 Community Share

Ministries: Making Room

GoodNews for Life

24 Following Doctor’s Orders

by Cheryl L. Dunson

GoodNews for Everyone

26 What Matters Most

by Chuck Cleveland

GoodNews Poetry

28 The Flag of America

by Larry D. Hawkins

GoodNews for Parents

30 Where Your Treasure Is

by Rhonda Beavers

GoodNews for Everyone

32 Let’s Wash Some Feet

8

by Sue Lavigne

GoodNews for Everyone

34 Enoch: The First Old Testament Prophet

by Jonathon Wright GoodNews for Everyone

36 The Potter’s Hands

by David Huff

GoodNews for Everyone

38 What Do We Have Here?

by Monica Gambrell

GoodNews for Everyone

22

40 Understanding The Assignment

by Sandra Gilmore GoodNews for your Taste Buds

42 Creamy Strawberry Milkshake

by Jodi Varnado

38

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk A Message for Graduates—and Everyone y words today are for graduates, but they are really for all of us. We all need to remember what it is to be young and charting the direction of our lives. We also need, at times, to recalibrate our lives to get back on the path of righteousness.

Don’t Be a Fool: Luke 12:13-21 The best advice I can give to graduates, to anyone really, is to have a rich relationship with God. So, here’s an important word for you—you’re not doing this all by yourself. Even when you think you are all on your own, your parents, family, and church are still pulling for you.

And even if no one else is there, God is surely with you.

Don’t be a fool like the man in Jesus’ parable. He was a fool because he was greedy and selfish. Instead of turning to help others who may not have been so fortunate, he thought only of himself and how he could enjoy pleasure in this world. He planned to take it easy saying, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come” but didn’t realize he was about to die and lose it all. None of us know how many days we have, and when this life is over, the things of this world will belong to others. Therefore, we should think of others instead of clinging to what we have. We should value our relationship with God above any worldly goods because they are only temporary.

Be Generous Proverbs 11:25 says, “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” Always remember God is taking care of you, and therefore, you can be a generous person who does what God calls you to do.

I’d like to challenge you today to tithe. Tithing helps you remember life isn’t all about you. It helps you guard against greed. It’s also something to help you practice your faith in God’s providence—that He is going to take care of you.

Tithing is an exercise of faith that strengthens your trust in God, helping you build a rich relationship with Him while building His Kingdom. The tithe is a win, win, win—a win for the Church, a win for God’s Kingdom, and a win for your spiritual life.

6 // July 2022

Trust God If ever there is a time in life when people need God’s guidance, grace, and help, it is those young adult years.

Sadly, these are also the years when most people drift away from church. I know it can be difficult to stay connected in that time of life, but it is so worth it and so needed. I challenge graduates to not drift away but to delve into their relationship with God through the church. Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”

Recalibration We all drift off course from time to time. It may not even be by much, but over time a little drift can make you miss the target by a lot. So, it is good for us to stop every now and then and think about it, and commit to do the things we need to do to get back on the right path. What do you need to do today to get back on the right path? Or if you are just starting out, what do you need to do to help you become the person you need to be? I invite you to pray to God about it and ask Him for help. And if you’ve never done it before, I invite you today to accept Jesus’ invitation to come follow Him. About The Author

M

by Chris Mullis

Rev. Chris Mullis is an ordained minister of the United Methodist Church with a Masters of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Pastor Chris’s ministry has spanned twenty years and four different churches in Georgia. Chris is currently serving God as the senior pastor of Pleasant Grove Methodist Church located at 2701 Cleveland Hwy in Dalton, GA.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

J-U-L-Y = Family Fun

S

by Brenda Dedmon

ummer is a wonderful time to spend time with your family. Talk with your parents about doing special fun activities for family fun. The Bible verse Proverbs

17:22 reminds us that being happy is like good medicine. “A cheerful heart is a good medicine.” So, having fun is better than taking medicine, right? Ask your parents to help you plan a few or even all of the following activities for a funfilled July. Remember to take pictures of the fun adventures.

• Jubilant Plan a Jubilant July 4! Wear your favorite red/white/blue shirts. Decorate bikes, wagons, or strollers with red/white/ blue streamers and take a walk in your neighborhood. Use red/white/blue chalk and have everyone in the family create sidewalk drawings. Leave a sidewalk message for your mail carrier and put a snack in the mailbox for the next day.

Purchase small paper flags and have a “Find the Flag” hunt.

Hide the flags in your yard like eggs for easter and have simple fun prizes after the hunt. You may choose to invite your neighbors to celebrate with you.

• Unity Discuss with your family how to be a helper in your choose to include are: donate children’s books to a shelter for women/children, volunteer at an animal shelter and play with the animals or read to the animals, purchase and take food to a community food bank, make cards and visit a senior living center.

• Letter Scavenger Hunt Provide each family member with a small notebook with their name handprinted on the first page. Then choose a week and have each family member find things that begin with the first letter of their names: objects, foods, animals, and nature items, and write it down in their notebook. Remind everyone while in the car going to all the activities like swimming lessons, ball games or just running errands to be on the outlook for things that begin with the first letter of their name. A bonus would be if you could take pictures of the items. At the end of the week,

8 // July 2022

have a family dinner and share the items that each person found and where they saw the item.

• Yummy A family picnic at the park, beach or even your own backyard is a wonderful time for family fun. You may choose to pack a picnic with favorite foods/beverages for each family member or pick up a to-go order from a familyfavorite restaurant. Pack in travel games, a frisbee, and a ball, and do not forget to take pictures of your family fun time!

At the end of the month, make a memory book or a memory poster of your fun times using the pictures of your adventures. Write descriptions for each picture and invite your family to record their own statements of the adventures. Your memories of 2022 will be fun to remember in the future.

About The Author

community to promote unity for everyone. Things you may

Written by Rev. Brenda Dedmon, retired Director of Children’s Learning Center, First Baptist Dalton, and an avid Bama fan.

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Keeping it Real 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.

I

had a relative (now deceased), an elderly lady who leased

period (April 2007-April 2022). In April 2022, the “typical”

a shiny new Jaguar and parked it in front of her mobile

U.S. home was valued at $344,000—a cumulative increase

home every day. This struck many of us as a rather odd

of 58% from April 2007’s home value of $218,000. This

financial decision (to put it mildly) since her lease payments

increase may look quite attractive, until we break it down

on the Jaguar were far and away her biggest monthly

into an annual rate of return which is roughly 3% per

expense. When someone (not me) had the temerity to ask

year—just enough to keep up with inflation. Compare that

her why she was leasing a new luxury car on her modest

to a diversified global stock market index during this same

income, she told us she hoped to attract a man and one day

fifteen-year period, which increased by a cumulative 139%.

get remarried. We studied her face closely, but she was not

So, while that house increased from $218,000 to $344,000

kidding. Her plan never did pan out, and personally I think

over the past fifteen years, a global stock market index fund

that’s just as well; any man who was with her solely because

would have turned $218,000 into roughly $600,000.

he believed her to be wealthy based on her leased Jaguar is probably not a man worth having for the long term.

How often do we know people (maybe ourselves

This is a good reminder of the term “recency bias”—the tendency to believe that just because things are currently or recently one way, they will continue to trend in that same

included) who make financial decisions based on faulty

direction. Housing prices have been climbing since the

narratives or erroneous beliefs? Sometimes, we may

pandemic began eighteen months ago, so we tend to think

wrongly believe that national or global trends accurately

they will continue to climb at a rapid pace. Conversely, the

reflect our own life situation, and vice versa. An article

stock market so far this year has been trending downward,

published this week, based on a study commissioned by The

and we are now in what is known as a “market correction”

Wall Street Journal, revealed that housing prices in 477 U.S.

(decline of 10%-20%). We may or may not be headed for

markets still have not recovered from the 2007-2008 mortgage

a true “bear market” (stock market decline of 20% or

meltdown. In other words, the prices of homes in these

more). As a result of these recent developments, we may

477 markets across the country are lower today than they

be tempted to believe that housing prices have outpaced

were fifteen years ago—a stark reminder that “real estate

the stock market over the past fifteen years, but as the

is local” and varies widely among geographical locations.

numbers above demonstrate, this has not generally been

In Chicago, for example, the typical home price of $314,000

the case. Rather than fretting about whether you should

in 2007 is now $315,000, an increase of merely $1,000 after

own real estate or stock index funds, why not own both?

fifteen years.

Invest regularly and in a disciplined manner, and then relax.

My favorite podcast, “Talking Real Money,” recently

God’s got this! “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything

compared the return on investment between homeowners

by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your

and stock market investors during this same fifteen-year

requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6).

10 // July 2022

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Gò0dNews for Men

Belonging With Boldness: Biblical Community Building

T

by Christopher Schelich

here is a small miracle that I’ve seen growing in Christian communities that has the power to transform hearts, habits, and homes. It sneaks in with subtlety,

but like a strong tide, it sweeps families in an undertow of grace, washing them out to a sea of compassion. It happens in a moment, but the effects last a lifetime.

In a decade of unparalleled fragmentation and divide, I’ve seen individuals open their hearts to one another and invite strangers into their families. I’ve seen single mothers and their daughters impacted by the generous love of a friendly couple, families with children and busy schedules

2. Make time for the orphan and widow (James 1:27).

Invest in families that you connect with that may not have a father figure around. You are not a superhero, but you may be a help just by being present or assisting when you can. Is there something you excel at that you can include someone in? Do it. Is there a way you can help that just makes sense? Don’t hesitate.

If you’ve got enough of a relationship to not overstep, then offer to help. Be prepared to be turned down and be okay.

Remember: it’s not about you, it’s about them and your offer may have been all the help they needed.

comforted by experienced parents, and divorcees embraced in their pain and nourished by casseroles and consoling hearts.

Say what you will, but I’ve seen families find healing because humble and honest nobodies decided to listen to what the Holy Spirit had for them and in their obedience, they broke walls that had become fortifications to hardened hearts.

The boldness it takes to risk caring is no longer normal. you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

Men, I believe we can be a catalyst for transformation within the lives of others if we are just stubborn enough to listen to what the Holy Spirit has for us to do. Here are three simple ways to enact just that.

1. Don’t hinder children, help guide them to Jesus (Luke 18:16). Children upturned Jesus’ ministry. As a rabbi, He would have been seen as “too important” to have His time wasted by children, and yet they were one of His top priorities.

Help create paths for children to encounter Jesus. Start investing in your own children and those within your family.

How can you help guide them to Jesus? For me, it is as simple as a wrestling match with my son or a hike with my daughter; I’ve never regretted investing time in the lives of my own children.

12 // July 2022

3. Don’t do life alone (1 Peter 3:8). I love the book of 1 Peter because the author gives out lists left and right. Here, Peter suggests five things in this one verse: “have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” Wow, what a game changer! Peter sets us up for a community that is aware of others and internally fortified (here, “tender-hearted” is translated from Greek’s “strong bowels”).

You can’t do life alone.

There is an essential togetherness that is understood for doing life as Jesus suggested. Men, you play a crucial role in that, just as important as anyone else. Don’t rob yourself of the benefit of brothers in arms. We do life best when we aren’t alone, and you may be the someone else somebody needs.

About The Author

“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if

Chris Schelich serves as the Communications & Public Relations Specialist at Westmore Church as well as the Programming Director at U-Turn Institute.

He and his wife, Brooke, and their two children, Sophia and Everett, reside in Cleveland, Tennessee.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Choices

M

by Linda Ray Center

ary and Martha teach us a great lesson

relationship between two people. Our differences are

in Luke 10:38-42 about what is good and

just as God intended. Martha probably thought that

best. Even though the sisters were very

Mary was squandering her time by sitting at Jesus’

different, they complimented each other regarding

feet in my understanding of the sisters’ story. At the

work and worship. The Bible tells us that Mary

same time, Martha worked herself ragged waiting on

spent time sitting at Jesus’ feet to learn from Him.

everyone and seeing to the hospitality duties.

She seems not to have any struggles and portrays a sense of calm throughout her day.

Jesus also praised Mary for her decision and called it the better choice.

Martha’s invitation to open her home to serve the Lord and guests was a good intention, but her priorities were off worrying about doing, solving problems, and being in charge. Martha had the gift of hospitality and service, while Mary had a hunger to listen and learn. We have two personalities

Their story is an excellent reminder to me to let

here that are valuable and full of purpose to serve

some housework go on occasion so that I can spend

God and others.

more time with the Lord. After all, He created us to

Jesus never condemned Martha for her busy

have a personal relationship with Him. The Lord deals

actions. Instead, He gave her four essential words,

with each of us to balance choosing more worship

“One thing is needed.” In other words, slow down

(the best thing) and prioritizing our workloads (the

and put God first. Likewise, the pressure of doing falls

needed and good thing). That is how we can find the

off our shoulders and makes us mindful of depending

correct balance between good and best choices. How is

on Jesus. When we give Jesus our attention, He

the Lord dealing with you to find the correct balance

empowers us to serve others peacefully and with joy

between good and best choices?

Even though this tale is about two sisters, it could easily have been about two brothers or any other

14 // July 2022

About The Author

instead of becoming anxious and troubled.

Linda Ray Center writes about everyday life with God, others, and self, as an author, freelance writer, and blogger at www.lindaraycenter.com. She resides in charming Chattanooga and will showcase her grandchildren’s pictures at any given moment.

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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 // July 2022

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 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

706-234-4923 Renovation Church 13 Redmond Ct. Rome GA 30165 706-314-9084

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

Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165

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

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

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

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

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 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

Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023

All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474

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 Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161 706-622-2448 Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165 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 2460 Shorter Avenue

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

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

Nazarene

Non-Denominational

Orthodox

Pentecostal

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 goodnewscm.com // 17

Gò0dNews for Couples

The Red Carpet in Marriage

H

by Carl W. Corser

ow does a marriage begin? When is its seed

medicine for keeping your marriage healthy. Children will

planted? Ah, isn’t dating a pleasure before

come and too soon be gone, but the number of times we

marriage? Why is dating your future spouse a

retrieve the red carpet will certainly provide for a long-

pleasure? Could it have something to do with the red

lasting marriage. Even through the child-rearing years,

carpet? When the dating has begun, men roll out the red

the red carpet should not be forgotten and left in storage.

carpet. We dress up and put our best foot forward in our

It is understood that life changes as we age, but there’s no

manners, cologne, clean and shining automobile, and gifts

acceptable reason or time to leave the roll of red carpet in

for the one we are beginning a courtship with. We look at

the closet.

her and admire her. We put her first in all of our thoughts

Men, if we are faithful to roll out the red carpet for our

and intentions. We lavish our liking and love on her in as

sweethearts the entire length of our marriage, she will love

many ways as possible. We do everything we can to make

you for life. Now ladies, you may think that you are off

sure we win her heart.

the hook for this article, but not too fast, for you have the

Then comes the biggest red-carpet-moment, as we

responsibility to honor our effects—even though our red

humbly ask for her hand in marriage. As she puts out her

carpet roll out may not always be very impressive. If you

hand for us to carefully slide that gorgeous ring onto her

give honor where it is due, it will encourage your husband

finger—red carpet, yes indeed. Then we roll it out again for

to do it again and stive to do a better roll-out next time.

her to walk on as she strolls down the aisle on that beautiful

There’s the old philosophy of, “He buttered her up and she

day of the wedding. The red carpet of marriage.

It’s truly a wonderful thing. The memories are quite pleasant as we think of them.

Well, now that the red carpet

egged him on.” How about the back and forth?

Men, do not ever forget where the red carpet is stored. Visit that closet often and your marriage and you will reap the

was rolled up after the beautiful

wonderful benefits. Ladies, do not cease to

wedding festivities, where was

egg on your husband when he’s rolling

it stored? How long has it been stored since the last roll-out? What

out the red carpet for you. You too will reap wonderful benefits in your

happened to the intensity of the

marriage. The red carpet in marriage

courtship? Has the red carpet

is a wonderful thing. If yours has

been forgotten?

been stored too long, go find

Yes, the honeymoon will

it, dust it off, and roll it out.

indeed end. It is true that the

You will be rewarded well.

courtship will change. Going

Blessings to all who have

to the storage place and

read this article in rolling

retrieving the red carpet

out your red carpet once

once in a while is good

About The Author

18 // July 2022

again in your marriage.

Carl Corser is an ordained bishop, business owner, farmer, and is the author of the devotion website, www. sundaymorningdevotion.wordpress.com/living.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Do You Need a Rest from Your Vacation?

T

by Dr. Alan D. Hix

he first week of July is a time when more Americans

The Israelites had been slaves for over 400 years,

take their summer vacations than any other time.

working endlessly, day after day. Now that they were free

Families will book their vacations a year in advance,

to build their own society, God blessed them by declaring a

and when it arrives, they try to cram in as many activities

day of rest. Like Christopher Robin, people spend too much

as possible. They arrive home Sunday night exhausted, and

time trying to get to the next moment that they miss the

then they have to drag themselves back to work on Monday.

present moment.

More than once, I have heard people complain that they need a vacation from their vacation!

If the purpose of a vacation is to “rest” from our work, why do we work so hard to make our vacation an “amazing getaway,” only to get home never really having “rested”?

In the movie Christopher Robin, Winnie-the-Pooh declares that “Doing nothing often leads to the very best something.” Christopher Robin desperately needs to hear this, because he gets so wrapped up in life and work that he forgets to have fun. He never does “nothing” because he is running from one responsibility to another. Does this sound familiar?

From the beginning, God designated a day of rest.

“And on the seventh day God finished his work that

We should take time to really listen to people without working on how we will respond. We need to stop and

he had done; and he rested on the seventh day from all his

really look at the world around us and marvel at its beauty

work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and

and complexity. Now that we are on the other side of the

made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that

pandemic, we can touch again. Take the time to shake

he had done in creation” (Genesis 2:2-3).

hands, hug, and put your arm around those closest to you.

This time of resting was so important to God that he

And when you go to church, take time to really listen

included the command “to honor the Sabbath Day and keep

to the prayers that are offered. Give your heart to singing

it holy” in the Ten Commandments. Later in Deuteronomy,

the praises of God regardless of whether you are on pitch

when Moses is reminding the people of this, he gave them a

or not. Engage your mind fully as the Scripture is read and

reminder to “remember that you were a slave in the land of

wait with expectation for God to speak to you as His Word

Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there

is proclaimed.

with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore, the

Take time to engage in wonder that God loves us so

Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day”

much that he gave us his most precious gift, at great cost to

(Deuteronomy 5:15).

himself. Take the time to do “nothing,” and see if you don’t

While we may not have the luxury of ceasing all activity,

discover “the very best something.”

appreciate the moment. Christopher Robin is so busy trying to be successful at work to get ahead, that his wife Evelyn chides him with “Your life is happening now, right in front of you.”

20 // July 2022

About The Author

we can approach our lives with the practice of taking time to Dr. Alan Hix is an Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Shorter University. In addition to being and educator, he has served churches as a pastor, been involved in mission trips to Africa, Canada, and Alaska, and participated in archaeological excavations in Israel for several years.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE, JUDE 1:22

Eradicating poverty involves an integrated approach, which Community Share Ministries is committed to providing for our local communities. It isn't enough to simply provide food and clothing to people during difficult times, but is essential to tackle all of the core issues impacting families. We believe in doing our part to make the world a better place for all within our community and the communities surrounding. We do this through feeding, clothing, and housing people in need. We exist to make a difference.

h elp com m u n it ysh a re . c om

FEATURED COVER STORY

Community Share Ministries: Making Room

F

ounded a little more than 12 years ago in the small city

years. Excitingly, God continues to prove His faithfulness

of Cedartown, GA, Community Share Ministries has

by blessing Community Share Ministries often. With Mr.

been a beacon of light within the community. We clothe,

Slaughter’s head spinning in utter amazement at what God

house, and feed the less fortunate in the surrounding areas. But

accomplished in such a short time, he felt the plan was

one thing that is at the center of everything we do is simple—

finished in terms of growth in numbers.

making room. We believe in making room for people so they

But after being content for a couple of years, Mr. Slaughter

can experience the transforming grace and love of Jesus Christ.

began to feel the Lord’s call again. God began to give him a

This is our God-given mission.

radical vision of more. It all started when he and his wife,

Jason Slaughter, founder and director of Community Share

Ginger, went to a late evening DFACS class to become foster

Ministries, started with a clear call from the Lord to close all of

parents themselves. During one of the evening sessions, they

his family businesses in the Southeast. That call was also very

were startled to hear loud yelling coming from a car near the

specific—open a men’s homeless shelter, a women’s homeless

door. To their surprise and devastation, it was a young child.

shelter, and a children’s home. Being the business-minded man

He was yelling loudly to a DFACS worker close by, and he

he is, Mr. Slaughter sat down and wrote a 10-year strategic

said, “Please, please, please tell my teacher I am going to be

plan to begin answering God’s call. His plan was to first open

okay and not to worry about me.” Little did this child know he

a thrift store in order to raise money for a couple of years to

was about to be taken to a new city, a new home, a new family,

gain the resources needed to open the shelters. But God had

and he would have a new teacher. He was told he was going

a much different plan. Within 36 months, all three homes

to Atlanta to a new foster home because there was no room for

were operational and running, starting with the men’s home,

him at one in his hometown. Mr. Slaughter and his wife were

then the women’s and children’s shelters. Needless to say,

shocked. Never had they experienced such an awful situation

God moved in big and mighty ways during those first three

involving a child.

22 // July 2022

In light of this event, Mr. Slaughter was reminded by the Lord that the children’s home operated by Community Share Ministries sat on a 40-acre plot of farmland. Immediately, Mr. Slaughter knew more could and had to be done. He could not sit back any longer and watch countless children be ripped away from their homes, friends, and foster parents knowing there could be more room to be made. So, with this call from God, Safe Haven Ranch was born.

So, what is Safe Haven Ranch?

Safe Haven Ranch is a place for children to call home.

They can thrive in a Christian setting with loving parents and God-given community that supports their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Safe Haven’s mission statement is “to provide a place where children can grow, learn, and excel in a Christian environment so they can make a positive impact for the Kingdom of God.” Mr. Slaughter said, “With the 40-acres, we are going to build and develop a boys’ ranch in a 3-stage plan.” The first phase consists of building four homes on the plot. Each home will have five boys living in it, along with a loving mother and father. Each boy will have his own bedroom and will be able to attend a local Christian school for education. On the property, there also will be a state-of-the-art community center where the

Mr. Slaughter also plans to open a girls’ ranch. At this time, there is a need to find a 75-to-100-acre plot of land to open a place for girls who need a safe home. So, any prayers to God to provide this land would be much appreciated. Currently, all of the roads, drainage pipes, and infrastructure at the boys’ ranch have been built. Mr. Slaughter says the next primary action item is to start building the first house. While the homes are being built, there is a strong desire to begin turning the ranch into a fully functional farm with chickens, horses, cattle, goats, gardens, beehives, etc. Fortunately, this process has begun. The ranch is home to a greenhouse full of growing vegetables, six beehives with a host of bees making honey, and a separate garden that is producing lots of tasty vegetables.

One of Mr. Slaughter’s and Safe Haven’s biggest desires is for children to learn about and be a part of the ranch. He believes there is so much to learn from gardening, putting seed into the soil, watching something grow, and then it being used for the benefit of others. More future plans involve having a general store on the property where the vegetables, the honey from the bees,

kids can have tutoring classes, social workers can meet with them, they can receive counseling services, etc. Also, the Safe Haven Ranch’s full-time staff offices will be there. In an effort to provide opportunities for people, companies, or organizations to give back, each piece of infrastructure at the ranch (a home, the community center, playgrounds, pools, basketball courts, etc.) can be purchased and then named after whoever provided funding. For example, if the Smith family purchases one of the homes, then it would become known as “The Smith Family Haven.” Everyone will have an opportunity to be a part of God’s story by giving back to Safe Haven Ranch, whether by donating money, praying, or volunteering.

In addition, Mr. Slaughter wants the homes to be operated by a “private placement” mindset. This means Community Share Ministries, through Safe Haven Ranch, will take temporary custody of every child who comes to the ranch. Mr. Slaughter strongly believes the ranch should not be operated or regulated by any government entity. With this in mind, he knows all forms of government financial aid will no longer be an option, yet he believes God will be faithful and provide for the vision.

and Safe Haven merchandise can be sold in order to raise money for the ranch.

Needless to say, God has been good, but He is not done yet.

There is more work to do, and Safe Haven Ranch gets to be a part of God’s continual redeeming work. As Mr. Slaughter always says, “He hasn’t brought us this far to only bring us this far.”

To support or learn more about Safe Haven Ranch: • Call or text (678)-634-4395

• Visit www.helpcommunityshare.com • Email cedartowngeorgia@gmail.com • Send donations to Safe Haven Ranch at 834 Piedmont Hwy., Cedartown, GA 30125 • Donations also can be made online through the Community Share Ministries website.

Thank you for your prayers and support! God Bless!

SafeHaven RANCH A Home Where Kids Can Grow And Excel In A Christian Environment.

Jude 1:22

goodnewscm.com // 23

Gò0dNews for Life

Following Doctor’s Orders

A

by Cheryl L. Dunson

careless accident, which led to a life-threatening

much time contemplating the stupidity of my decision to

situation, made me realize how not following a

ignore the doctor’s order. I also had time to reflect on how

doctor’s orders can have the same repercussions as

ignoring God’s will for our lives can lead to tragic results.

not following God’s will for our lives. They can both result

The nurse might have gotten more of my attention

in unsolicited reproach, unnecessary complications, and

if she’d said, “Stay off your foot or you can develop a

unforeseen consequences in our lives.

blood clot.” But, since she was the medical professional,

After running into the house from a rain storm, I

I should’ve heeded her original advice without question.

tripped over a rug. I thought I’d twisted my ankle, but I

Similarly, when we ignore or question God’s direction for

went to the hospital the next morning to be safe rather than

our lives, we’re abandoning our faith in Him and trusting on

sorry. I thought an x-ray would be prudent and rule out a

our own understanding, which is usually never fruitful.

broken bone. Obviously, Dr. Dunson (who has no medical

According to the New International Version Life

training or expertise) was wrong. I learned I’d fractured

Application Bible, persistence is good, but stubbornness is

my ankle.

usually self-centered. Likewise, stubbornness towards God

As the nurse in the emergency room was putting a splint on my leg—and giving me instructions to rest and stay off my feet—I refused the prescription for pain medicine and decided to suck it up. I returned to

is always disobedience. We’re told to avoid disobedience because the consequences may spill onto others or create greater problems (Ex. 8:15).

We can choose to be close to God or to go

work the next day and hobbled around. Within a

our own way, but there are consequences

few days, my entire body ached, and a few days

resulting from our choices. Samson didn’t

later, I realized something was terribly wrong

choose to be captured, but he chose to be

with my chest.

with Delilah. Sadly, he couldn’t escape the

A return visit to the emergency room revealed

consequences of his decision (Judges 16:21).

a blood clot in my lung, which I never imagined

Finally, many of the plans we set in

could be the direct result of walking on a broken

motion cannot be reversed. It’s best to think

foot or leg. Instead of a few days off work, I

of the potential consequences before we

was hospitalized and then ordered to two weeks of bed rest.

While the outpouring of love and concern from

launch into action we may later regret (Matthew 27:3-4). When I finally returned to work and my boss asked me how I was feeling, I

my friends and church

simply replied, “Not listening

family was emotionally

to the doctor is like not

overwhelming but

listening to God.”

appreciated, I spent

24 // July 2022

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

What Matters Most et me begin with a brief story told by my friend Steve Brown, the teacher on the Key Life radio program. I have his permission to share it, and it goes like this: Did you hear about the little girl who was late getting home one evening? Her mother asked her why and she said, “I stopped to help Susie.” Her mother replied, “What happened?”

“Well, Susie hurt her doll—the head was broken off.”

“Oh, you helped Susie fix the doll.” The little girl answered, “Oh no, we couldn’t fix the doll. I stopped to help Susie cry.”

Intrigued by Steve’s story, I began to ask people, “When someone (preferably not your spouse or a parent) was a special friend to you, what exactly did that person do on your behalf? By the way, how would you answer that question?

I’ve spoken to 25 to 30 people over the last few years, and the overwhelming majority answered in a similar manner. They cited instances when someone came alongside them when they were confronted with a sick child, the loss of a job, a dying parent, a broken relationship, or some other calamity.

When asked if that friend provided advice on how to resolve the crisis, most said no. That was shocking to me. After all, I reasoned, what are friends for, but to help resolve problems? And they’re saying what meant the most to them was just being there.

The good news, of course, is that all of us can be there for others. We don’t need to have an advanced degree to listen to those struggling; we don’t even need to be particularly smart to help the hurting. As we can infer from Steve Brown’s story about the little girl who befriended Susie, when we cry with others, they feel genuinely loved and we are greatly enriched.

Perhaps the best biblical account of such sharing is that of Job’s much-maligned friends. As captured in the last three verses of chapter two, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar traveled to Job’s home, where they wept over his distress.

26 // July 2022

Remarkably, they stayed an entire week without speaking to Job, for they saw how much he was suffering.

Unfortunately, they eventually opened their mouths, and chapters four through thirty-seven ensued.

Despite all that conversation, there was little or no communication—at least on a personal level. Instead, the foursome (and later Elihu) took turns making lengthy theological and philosophical speeches that have little or no effect on each other.

Contrasted to our frequent insensitivity to others, let’s look at the compassion exhibited by the Lord Jesus when he encountered a leper in Matthew 8, Mark 1, and Luke 3: A man with leprosy came to Christ with the expectation that the Lord would heal him if he were willing to do so.

Jesus reached out, touched the man, and declared, “I am willing.” Immediately, leprosy left him.

In our day, there may not be many lepers, but there is no shortage of loners, and they want someone to be there for them. Given the Lord’s example, should we not go and do likewise?

About The Author

L

by Chuck Cleveland

Chuck Cleveland lives in Newnan, GA and has written for three area magazines, as well as the local newspaper. He has been a Christian for over 50 years.

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Gò0dNews Poetry

The Flag of America

by Larry D. Hawkins

The Flag of America, how beautiful is its name, Ole Glory, the Bountiful, and the home of the U.S.A. America, the Beautiful, the Land of the Free, The Home of the Courageous where everyone wants to be.

The Red, the White, and the Blue, with the U.S. Continental Band, Through wars and battles, and even now, she proudly stands.

Yes, when mighty England withdrew her pressing hand, Through God Almighty, America came to shape this land.

From the hulls of the ships the cries could be heard, As mighty men sought God’s help from His Holy Word.

From hours of praying and pages of scrolls they say, The Mayflower Compact was made with God that day.

So, Americans, be thankful you’re in the land of the Free, Instead of a land across the wide and rolling sea.

Where there’s fighting and raging along every street, While in America, our peace is sure and liberty is sweet.

So, be glad my friend, as our precious flag waves high, That the Red, White, and Blue will forever part the sky.

And, if one day, the skies do part and burst with thunder, Then, we’ll stand tall, and heed the call, and Ole’ Glory Won’t go U-N-D-E-R!

28 // July 2022

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Gò0dNews for Parents

Where Your Treasure Is

I

by Rhonda Beavers

’ve always been amazed by the way that squirrels

conversations with them, pieces of advice they have

bury, presumably, hundreds if not thousands of

given me, and little private jokes between the three

nuts every fall only to rediscover them the next

of us. When I think of something for the first time, it

spring. Some force of a natural tracking system

makes me smile. Each memory is like a shining jewel.

directs them to each little buried treasure which,

Some are tiny rhinestones, and some are as big and

when retrieved, leaves a perfect little round divot

special as the Hope Diamond, and I treasure them all.

where it rested.

My parents both had remarkable memories. They could recall events from their childhoods many decades past as if they had happened yesterday. When I had the great joy of becoming their chauffeur about town in their last few years, I was rewarded by being a witness to their thought processes. We would be riding along in silence when one or both of them would spot a funny or possibly even heart moving scene. They would point out the scene to the other passengers, comments from one or all would be entertained, and one of them would begin reminiscing about something similar

When I am in need of advice about this crazy ride

from their past. About my mother’s long walk home

we call life, I often, either voluntarily or involuntarily,

after her school bus broke down miles from home.

go back to my conversations with them looking

About how my father learned how Kennedy had been

for answers. It is a comfort when I find one. “For

killed while he was sitting at the top of a telephone

where your treasure is, there will be your heart also”

pole working as a lineman. About how they went by

(Matthew 6:21). It is also a comfort when a Bible verse

themselves to be married by my mother’s uncle and

comes to mind when I need advice from my Heavenly

about how my dad carved their initials into a nearby

Father. We are instructed to hide the Word in our

tree. I wish I could find that tree, how I wish I could.

hearts. “Thy Word I have hid in mine heart, that I

One of the hardest things about losing them was when I wanted to ask a question, and there was no

might not sin against Thee” (Psalms 119:11).

Talk to your father and mother. Listen to their

one to go to. The encyclopedia of their lives was

stories, their memories, and their advice. Hide it in

closed forever, and there is no other copy in the

your memory. Read your Heavenly Father’s Word and

world. I constantly mine the fields of my mind for

hide it in your heart.

30 // July 2022

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Let’s Wash Some Feet

W

by Sue Lavigne

hen I was in graduate school preparing to

Perhaps, the most important first step is to yield

become a physical therapist, I worked for an

ourselves completely to God. I try to ask the question,

orthopedic doctor who specialized in foot

“How is God calling me to meet the needs of someone else

problems. My job was to make a slipper cast mold of each

today?” People cross our paths every day whether it’s in

of the patient’s feet. So, I rolled up my sleeves, put the cast

our jobs, in our neighborhoods, in the community or even

material in some warm water and gently wrapped it around

in our own families. Each of these situations can provide

the bottom part of each foot. Once the cast dried, I could

opportunities where we can demonstrate the art of “foot

easily slip it off and set it aside. Once I finished, I would use

washing,” which is basically just meeting the needs of another. The task may be as simple as sending an encouraging text to a friend or as difficult as taking a homeless person inside a grocery store to buy some food.

Jesus demonstrated foot washing as an example to us of a servant/leader. “The greatest among you must be a servant to all” (Matthew 23:11). Needless to say, serving others can be a very humbling experience. We may be called to wash all “types of feet.”

These situations are likely to call us out of our comfort zone to help those who are very different and maybe even difficult to serve.

a warm wet towel to clean the cast residue off the patient’s

When I got laid off from my job, God asked me

feet. While working there, I washed a lot of different kinds

to immediately go back and be a volunteer for that

of feet: small feet, big feet, pretty feet, ugly feet, flat feet,

organization. That was the last thing I wanted to do, but in

ticklish feet, and even some awful smelly feet. I felt a little

being obedient to God, He made a way for me not only to be

like Jesus, washing His disciples’ feet. Although in the days

a blessing as a volunteer, but also to hear from my former

of Jesus, the task of washing feet was a lot dirtier and given

co-workers how much I had blessed them.

only to the lowest servant.

I believe the art of foot washing is especially needed

As a Christian, Jesus tells us in John 13:14, “And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to

today. Not the specifics of carrying around a wash basin

wash each other’s feet.” So, are you ready? Let’s roll up our

and washing the feet of strangers, but of stepping outside

sleeves and get started!

than ourselves.

32 // July 2022

About The Author

of our needs and seeking to help someone less fortunate Susan Lavigne attends Cornerstone Church. She is a Christian speaker and songwriter. Feel free to contact her at susanclavigne@gmail.com.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Enoch: The First Old Testament Prophet

“J

by Jonathon Wright

ared lived one hundred and sixty-two years, and begot Enoch. After he begot Enoch, Jared lived eight hundred years, and had sons and daughters.

So all the days of Jared were nine hundred and sixty-two years; and he died. Enoch lived sixty-five years, and begot Methuselah. After he begot Methuselah, Enoch walked with God three hundred years, and had sons and daughters. So all the days of Enoch were three hundred and sixty-five years. And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him” (Genesis 5:18-24, NKJV).

This passage is amazingly brief but still supplies us with some important information about the first legendary prophet in the Old Testament. We learn about his family, character, and influence. First, it reveals some family dynamics in his early life. His father may not have loved God. The name Enoch is a bad reminder of Cain’s family. Why would someone name their kid in Adam’s family after another family’s kid that had hurt them so much? See Genesis 4 and the story of Cain, Abel, and death. The name Enoch would not create good family dynamics for this soon-to-be prophet. I do not think Enoch’s father had any idea what God had in mind to do with his son.

Also, there is a prophecy in Jude that helps us recognize the outcry against God during his time. Jude 1:14-15 states, “Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: ‘See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him” (NIV). Jude was talking about people in his generation who were saying bad things about Christ. But Enoch was talking to his generation about those who were saying bad things about God. Second, we learn about his character and what God did to change his heart. The fact that so many were against God makes it remarkable that Enoch would come to God. What did God do to change his heart? We may not have all the answers to this question. Yet there was something significant about the year he turned 65. This was the year he had his first son and started walking with God. There was something significant

After deciding to walk with God, Enoch remained faithful for the rest of his life. He stayed so close that one day, he and the Lord took a walk-up into Heaven and he was never seen again. This was the greatest blessing and honor given to a man on earth. Only Elijah, in the Old Testament, and Jesus, in the New Testament, had such encounters with God. However, his greatest blessing was peace and eternal life with God. Sometimes we need to remember our greatest blessings come when we leave this world. Thank you, Jesus, for the promise of eternal life.

Third, we learn about his influence. No doubt, Enoch leaving this earth in such an incredible way influenced Noah’s father. He raised Noah to fear the Lord and fulfill the plan God had for him and the world. And to think, all this happened because God used one man to influence another, which changed the world. One courageous man who followed God.

God’s love. His father had to wait 165 years to have a son. I do not think that he wanted to wait SO LONG.

34 // July 2022

About The Author

about the timing of the birth of his son that opened his eyes to

Jonathon Wright currently lives in Cleveland, Tennessee, and has been a member of the Church of God for about twenty years. He is a graduate of Lee University and Beacon University where he earned a BA and MA in Biblical Studies. He loves studying the Bible and has done so for over thirty years, but only now has God given him a desire and the opportunity to be a writer.

Jonathon hopes to encourage people to read the Bible and take notes. You can find more from Jonathon at amazon.com/author/everydaynotes.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Potter’s Hands

B

by David Huff

ack when I was in school, we had a pottery class where we would make many different things.

I remember making a box and a cup that you

could drink out of. We would work and work on the clay, forming it the way we wanted it. And just when we would think we had it perfect, an imperfection would pop into it. So, we would gently start all over again.

Instead of throwing the clay away for a new piece, we would simply begin remolding it, forming the bottom and sides once again.

God works with us in the same way. In the story of the potter’s house, Jeremiah was sent to watch how the potter worked with the clay. Jeremiah 18:1-4, “This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: ‘Go down at once to the potter’s house, and there I will reveal My words to you.’ So, I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was working away at the wheel. But the jar he was making from the clay became flawed in the potter’s hand, so he made it into another jar as it seemed right for him to do.”

When God is working on us, in many times, we allow sin to flaw us. But instead of God throwing us out, He gently starts all over and begins molding and forming us once again. In these moments of molding, it can hurt, and it can seem like God is pouring pressure on us to live a sinless life. While yes, God may want us not to sin, He also knows we are in a human form, and we have a human condition that we have to crucify every day. Knowing this, God simply starts the molding process over, and begins to mold, shape, and form us once again. Isaiah 64:8, “Yet you, Lord, are the Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter; we are all the work of your hands.”

will continue to leak out no matter how you pour into it.

Patch and repair the hole, and the vessel will hold what you pour into it. Our hurts, addictions, and flaws are these holes. God wants to repair and heal them so we can hold what He wants to pour into us. So, God continues to mold and repair each and every one of the flaws that we hold inside of us. God wants us to look more like Him and less like the world. Therefore, He continues to pour into us. He continues to mold us with the purifying and healing love that only God can give. Let the potter’s hands work to heal your imperfections and take you into a new life.

forming us is because a clay vessel with a hole in it will never hold anything. The substance that is put inside of it

36 // July 2022

About The Author

The reason that God continues to work at molding and My name is David Huff, and I am married to Brittany and together we have five wonderful kids. We attend Rock Bridge Community Church Calhoun where I serve on the prayer team, host team, production team, and a small group co-leader. I am also a senior at Lee University.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

What Do We Have Here?

T

by Monica Gambrell

here was a period of time when my mother actually made valiant efforts to keep her hoard clean. During that time, there was a Saturday regimen that rarely

deviated. We awoke early to the smell of biscuits cooking, and just as we finished eating, my mom would say, “As soon as we’re finished cleaning, we’re going to hit the road!”

From top to bottom, we would clean furiously in order to begin our adventure. We never knew where we were headed—and neither did she. There were countless times I heard her say that we would go wherever the road takes us.

The point she was driving home to us was it’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey.

My mom kept what she deemed to be necessary items in the trunk of her old car at all times. There was a handcrank ice cream maker, rock salt, canned milk, charcoal, matches, aluminum foil and paper goods, and all sorts of non-perishable food items. We were inevitably out during meal-times, so she would open the trunk and ask, “What do we have here?” Once, when we stopped at a state park for an impromptu picnic, she was searching for something to flavor the homemade ice-cream with, and we ended up with peanut butter and jelly flavor. It was amazing!

Another time, we were on an old two-lane highway, and it was already dark on the way back from a trip, and we all decided we were hungry. My mom pulled over to the side of the road, lit a fire, and cooked some hotdogs. The police officer who showed up told her she couldn’t do that, but he was empathetic to a single mother’s efforts. That is a memory I won’t soon forget. My mom was an expert at making something out of nothing. She stretched the budget, improvised constantly, and always did her best to make lemonade from the lemons she had. I have every worldly reason to focus on the negative aspects of my upbringing, but I choose not to dwell there. There actually were a few positive memories sprinkled throughout.

I hope that my husband and I gave our children some of the same gifts my mother gave me: frugality, a sense of

38 // July 2022

adventure, an innate ability to ask, “What do we have here?” and then make the most of every gift given.

Philippians 4:11, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content.”

Proverbs 15:13, “A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, but when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.”

Father God, when Your joy lives within us, it is easy to find it in our outward world as well. Whether our resources are sparse or abundant, our joy is found in You. That joy may be made evident to those around us through our very countenance. We must imagine someone is watching us at all times and that we are the only Bible they will ever read.

What they know of Your nature may partially be found in our words and actions in their presence. Therefore, it behooves us to allow Your indwelling joy to flow through us to those You place in our path. Strengthen us to do so!

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Understanding The Assignment

K

by Sandra Gilmore

en’s voice bellowed across the downtown square

overlooked connections to this sacred event and wind our way

where passers-by scurried to appointments or

back to Christmas.

meetings. Standing on the rim of the square’s

A message came from Heaven with Good News!

fountain, his rich baritone voice conveyed the Good News

A savior was born. Simeon spoke of this savior as the

message with an upbeat urgency. He cared about his

“refreshing of Israel,” also translated as the “encourager

fellow citizens. Whether they agreed or not, they knew his

of Israel.” What a magnificent message! In the Christmas

intentions were warm and sincere. He was often dutifully

context, we see two different missions for this message.

poised at this strategic spot during lunchtime sharing the Good News with resounding clarity.

The shepherds couldn’t contain their amazement and excitement about this Good News. They told everyone in the area about the gift from Heaven! The term in the original language means to “publish abroad, make known thoroughly.” It’s the only time in the New Testament that verb phrase is used. What they did was unique and singled out in Scripture!

Comparatively, Mary “kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.” The verb meaning “ponder” in the original language includes our concept of “huddling.” It carries the idea of a gathering of ideas or facts from various sources. She conferred with herself about all that was happening.

The term “kept” in the original language means to “preserve a thing from perishing or being lost.”

Did she ever tell? Scholars say it was Mary

At the corner coffee shop, Kim’s gaze alternated from

who shared enough details for Luke to write his gospel

her laptop screen to Ken’s perch. She soaked in the exchange

book, written as a letter to Theophilus. Letters were the

between Ken and his bustling audience. Some truly ignored

forerunners of our social media. The letters traveled around

him. Some broke their stride to listen intently, however

a good bit.

short their attention span. Some waved to him as they

Are you a broadcaster given to speeches, sermons,

scurried along. She wondered if her online readers had

or lectures? Or do you prefer blogs, emails, or posts?

similar responses.

It’s the Good News that’s at the heart of the message, no

Which communicator are you more like, Ken or Kim?

matter how it’s delivered. Whether vocalizing from the

Do you literally voice your message with preaching or

town square, or huddling with a few friends, we all can

teaching? Or do you prefer quiet methods like articles or

understand the assignment: to know Jesus and to make

conversations over coffee? Which is better or more effective?

Him known!

We can take some lessons from the shepherds and following this series? Check each month as we explore often-

40 // July 2022

About The Author

from Mary way back at Christmastime. Have you been

Sandra Gilmore serves the Lord as wife, mom, and encourager, mostly through writing and speaking, occasionally through cooking, rarely through anything athletic and only because of the mercy and grace of Jesus. You can reach her by email: tandsgilmore@yahoo.com or her website: www.sandragilmore.org

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Creamy Strawberry Milkshake

by Jodi Varnado

I

s there anything more blissful than a cold and creamy milkshake after spending a warm afternoon in the sun? Milkshakes are one of my favorite summertime indulgences and in my opinion, a most cheerful way to celebrate a summer day. This Creamy Strawberry Milkshake recipe is the perfect treat for everyone in the family, with easy substitutions for those who

have any dietary preferences or restrictions. I may or may not be blending some up for July 4th (I definitely will be), and I encourage you to join in on this delicious creation!

Ingredients • 1 14-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk • ¾ cup of fresh strawberries (measured after slicing) • ¼ cup of maple syrup (or other sweetener) • ½ tsp of vanilla extract

Instructions 1. Prepare coconut milk ice cubes: Pour 1 can of full-fat coconut milk into a bowl and mix until there is no separation between the coconut cream and water. Then, pour the coconut milk into an ice cube tray and freeze for at least 8 hours.

2. Using a blender, add strawberries, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, and blend the ingredients together until the consistency is smooth and no strawberry slices are visible.

3. After the ingredients are well blended, add 2-4 coconut milk ice cubes into the blender and blend. Then, continue adding ice cubes until you are happy with the creamy consistency (I recommend 10-12 ice cubes).

4. Serve. Throw some fresh strawberries and whipped cream on top, and you’re likely to impress your eagerly awaiting recipient!

42 // July 2022

If you try this recipe at home, please let us know on our Facebook page: @GoodNewsChristianMagazine.

Extra bonus points for uploading an accompanying photo!

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