May 2023

Gò0dNews May 2023

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About Us WRITERS

Dr. Alan D. Hix Brent Goodge Brian Johnson Charles Finney Chase Holtzclaw Danny Hesterly Danny House Granger Hughes Heather Guthrie Janice Washington John Garrod Judy Hood Kristen West Porter Johnson Terrie Ruff

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PHOTOGRAPHER Melanie Abney 706-844-3818

and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful 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,

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Contents M AY 2 0 2 3

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

6 Time

by Porter Johnson

GoodNews for Kids

8 Intertwinement

by Charles Finney

GoodNews Money Matters

10 Taxes on Your Investments and Social Security

by Granger Hughes GoodNews for Men

12 Lovely Things

by Brian Johnson

GoodNews for Women

14 Who Are You Opening the Door To?

by Heather Guthrie GoodNews for Parents

18 Empty-Nesters

by Kristen West

GoodNews Cover Story

20 The Pool Store

by Danny House

GoodNews for Everyone

22 Color in the Clouds

GoodNews for Youth

24 Sharing the Burden

by Danny Hesterly

GoodNews for Life

26 He Called First

by Chase Holtzclaw

GoodNews Poetry

28 Master Of My Soul

by Judy Hood

GoodNews for Everyone

30 What’s In a Name?

6

by Dr. Alan D. Hix

GoodNews for Everyone

32 April Showers

by Janice Washington

GoodNews for Everyone

34 Was This the Last One?

by John Garrod

GoodNews Community Spotlight

36 Deputy Mike Williams

Floyd County Sheriff’s Office

GoodNews for Everyone

38 Pentecost

20

by Brent Goodge

by Terrie Ruff

36

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Time

“W

by Porter Johnson

hoever is faithful in very little is

mean by this is that we don’t take advantage of them.

also faithful in much, and whoever

However, the problem arises when one creates a habit

is unrighteous in very little is also

of treating each day as if it is insignificant. Your life

unrighteous in much” (Luke 16:10). The context for

will simply be defined by adding up all of your days.

this verse of Scripture makes it clear that it is about

Therefore, if each day is insignificant, life becomes

resources. There are three main resources individuals

insignificant. I don’t think that’s how God intended us

have in this life. They are money, energy, and time. It

to live. God does not intentionally create and gift people

is no feat to convince Americans that money is a valuable resource.

In fact, it controls many people’s lives. It is also easy to recognize the value of energy because it seems as if everyone is running short on this resource. However, I am persuaded that time is the most valuable of these resources, and yet it is treated as the least valuable.

I’m going to assume that you value time theoretically more than you value it practically. Let me put this in perspective…If you were offered $100,000 today, but taking it would guarantee you wouldn’t wake up tomorrow,

so they can remain complacent. He created and gifted

would you accept the offer? Most likely, you would not.

you in a unique way to have an impact on the people

However, my guess is that you will not treat tomorrow

around you.

as if it’s this valuable. You might not treat tomorrow as

If you are faithful with each day of your life, you

if it’s worth more than $100,000, but theoretically you

will prove yourself faithful with all of your life. Figure

said that it is. Therefore, my encouragement to you is to

out what you want your life to be and use each day

make the most of each day God gives you. You would

to achieve that. Time is a resource for you to use. It’s

not intentionally squander $100,000. Why would you

not just an ambiguous concept that comes and goes.

waste something worth more than that?

Therefore, start using it to its fullest potential.

In the grand scheme of things, a singular day is a sounds like nothing. Therefore, we are often tempted to treat individual days as if they are nothing. What I

6 // May 2023

About The Author

small portion of time. Compared to 60 years, one day Porter Johnson is a Shorter University Graduate, a current student at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and College Pastor at Sherwood Rome.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Intertwinement

T

by Charles Finney

here was a boy named Judge Ment. He

his classmates to join him in activities outside

was a bright and curious student, but

of school, and even made an effort to strike up

he often found himself feeling isolated

conversations with his teachers during class.

from his classmates and teachers. He didn’t

Judge Ment also learned the importance of

quite know how to connect with them, and as

intertwining with others in work and play. He

a result, he struggled to make friends and form

found that working together on projects helped

meaningful relationships.

him to learn new skills and to appreciate the perspectives of others. He also discovered that playing with his classmates and teachers helped to build trust and camaraderie, and that it was a great way to have fun and relax.

As Judge Ment continued to make connections and build relationships, he found that his experience at school became much more enjoyable.

He felt happier and more fulfilled, and he was able to

One day, Judge Ment’s English teacher assigned the class to read Psalm 133:1, which

achieve more academically and personally.

In the end, Judge Ment realized that the

says, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when

verse from Psalm 133:1 was not just a scriptural

brothers dwell in unity!” The verse struck a chord

passage but a wisdom that can be applied

with Judge Ment, and he began to reflect on the

to his daily life. He understood the true

importance of unity and connection in his own life.

meaning of unity and how it can be achieved

Determined to change his ways, Judge Ment

by intertwining with others in work and play.

began to actively seek out opportunities to

He became a shining example to his classmates

connect with his classmates and teachers. He

and teachers, and he was forever grateful for

volunteered to work on group projects, invited

the lessons he learned about the importance of

8 // May 2023

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Taxes on Your Investments and Social Security

Money Matters Granger Hughes

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes works with his father to help provide educational opportunities for clients as well as others in the community.

He feels a responsibility to help inform those who may otherwise not be aware of strategies, changes, and opportunities available to them when it comes to their financial well-being.

A

s tax season comes to an end for most tax filers, let’s look at how our investments can affect our tax filing at year end and how and when your Social Security income

might be subject to income tax.

5. Tax-loss Harvesting: Some investors engage in a strategy known as tax-loss harvesting, where they sell losing investments to offset gains and reduce their tax bill. However, there are rules and limitations to be aware of, such as the

The stock market and taxes are closely related, as investment

“wash sale” rule that prevents investors from immediately

gains and losses in the stock market can trigger tax implications for

repurchasing the same or a substantially identical security

investors. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

after selling it at a loss.

1. Capital Gains: When you sell a stock for more than what you

Social Security income may be subject to federal income

paid for it, you have a capital gain. Depending on how long

tax, depending on the total amount of income received from all

you held the stock, the gain may be classified as short-term

sources, including Social Security benefits.

(if you held the stock for one year or less) or long-term (if

If an individual’s total income, including half of their Social

you held the stock for more than one year). Capital gains are

Security benefits, exceeds certain thresholds, they may be required

subject to taxation, with long-term gains generally taxed at a

to pay federal income tax on a portion of their Social Security

lower rate than short-term gains.

benefits. The thresholds for determining whether Social Security

2. Capital Losses: When you sell a stock for less than what you paid for it, you have a capital loss. Capital losses can be used to offset capital gains in the same year, which can lower your

benefits are taxable depend on an individual’s filing status and are as follows for the 2021 tax year: • Single Filers: If their combined income (which includes

tax bill. If your capital losses exceed your capital gains, you

adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest, and half of their

can use the excess losses to offset up to $3,000 of other types of

Social Security benefits) is between $25,000 and $34,000, up to

income (such as wages) and carry over any remaining losses to

50% of their Social Security benefits may be subject to federal

future tax years.

income tax. If their combined income exceeds $34,000, up to

3. Dividends: If you own stocks that pay dividends, the dividends you receive are generally taxable. The tax rate on qualified dividends (which includes most dividends paid

85% of their Social Security benefits may be subject to federal income tax.

• Married Filing Jointly: If their combined income is between

by U.S. corporations) is generally lower than the tax rate on

$32,000 and $44,000, up to 50% of their Social Security benefits

ordinary income.

may be subject to federal income tax. If their combined income

4. Retirement Accounts: If you hold stocks in a tax-advantaged retirement account, such as a traditional IRA or a 401(k), you generally won’t owe taxes on gains or dividends until you withdraw money from the account. However, there are some exceptions, such as if you take early withdrawals from the account or if you hold certain types of investments (such as REITs) in the account.

10 // May 2023

exceeds $44,000, up to 85% of their Social Security benefits may be subject to federal income tax.

Overall, it’s important to be aware of the tax implications of your stock market investments. It’s also important to note that not all states tax Social Security benefits. Both of these factors make it worth consulting with a tax professional or a financial advisor if you have any questions or concerns.

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Gò0dNews for Men

Lovely Things

H

by Brian Johnson

ow do you handle adversity? People have

her off at her mother’s house every morning so she could

different ideas, thoughts, and techniques to

catch the bus from there. She and I had a ritual. When

get them through. As Christians, we have

she got out of the car to walk to the door, she would stop

a tendency to forget to turn to God first. We try to

halfway, turn to me, and blow me a kiss. I would blow

work things out on our own, and eventually, we get

one back to her. She would catch it, close her eyes, and

around to talking to God about it. Philippians 4:6

hold it to her chest, then look at me and smile. That was

says, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by

lovely! It was a key thing I would think on whenever I

prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your

was upset about the situation I found myself in.

requests be made know unto God.” In the next verse, we’re told this will give us peace. This isn’t always an instantaneous process though. What do we do when we keep dwelling on it? How can we move our focus away from the problem so that we’re not full of care? Not only does Paul tell us to give it to God, but he also tells us what to think on instead of the problem.

Verse 8 of that same chapter tells us to “think on” things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and things that are of a good report.

After an eleven-year marriage, I discovered my wife was having an affair. She decided to

Thank God for His word and its practicality. In this

leave me and our children to be with him. This was the

scripture, it doesn’t just tell us to let go and let God, it

most difficult time of my life. I cried a lot! I lost weight

also tells us what we can do to replace those negative

without trying. Everyday was incredibly difficult. In my

thoughts. If you are struggling with issues in your life

Bible reading, I came across this scripture and saw it in

that make you full of care, take the time to write out some

a different light. I decided to look up each of these six

things you can think on that will help you focus on the

things through the Bible and write down a key phrase

positive or things that you can be thankful for. That way,

or thought that corresponded to each one. I also thought

you’re prepared to combat those thoughts Satan uses to

about things in my life that had to do with each one.

keep you down.

kindergarten. She rode the bus to school, but I had to be at work before the bus picked her up, so I would drop

12 // May 2023

About The Author

When school started that fall, my daughter was in Brian Edward Johnson is a deacon at his church, nurse and author of Behaving Wisely, One Man’s Journey from Betrayal to Blessing. He longs for Christians to trust God for every aspect of their lives.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Who Are You Opening the Door To? sk, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7).

I was headed out the door. The door wouldn’t shut. I slammed it a time or two. Actually, three times. Open and shut. Open and shut. I looked around the door and could not figure out why it wouldn’t shut. I thought maybe the camera cord had repositioned. Maybe someone recently had problems

shutting it. Maybe someone tried to break in and just didn’t do well. My first thought was it was just fine last night. I didn’t have time to see who could fix it. Also, who could? Anyhow, I locked the screen door and shut the door the best I could. I said, “God, this is your house. You protect it and take care of it anyways, so I’m trusting you.” At some points, the door came to my mind throughout the day. I talked to God about it again.

When I got home, I talked to Him again and tried to shut the door a few more times. It didn’t work the first time, but I thought, surely, it’ll work this time. I looked all around the door. Finally, I thought

14 // May 2023

it had to be around the latch. I looked closer. Sure enough, there’s a plate that goes around the latch, and that was loose. The two screws were loose that kept it aligned. In that moment, the Holy Spirit started speaking to me. How something small being misaligned can throw you off. Nothing else was in the way except the most important plate.

Are you opening the door to your past? We say, “Come on in, old friends! Come on in, anxiety! Come on in, depression! Y’all have always been there! Come on in, old ways.

Come on in, old sin.”

We literally open the door of our hearts, our mind, and our soul to those old ways. When the Lord comes knocking, we close the door on Him. We don’t trust Him with our ugly. We say, “Nope, God, you can’t see this, you can’t fix this, and I’m too ashamed for you to work this out. You deserve better than this.”

He keeps gently knocking. Finally, we decide we are going to open the door to Him! Opening the door! “Come on in, peace and contentment! Come on in, freedom!

Come on in, Jesus!”

We were so focused on what we used to be and opened the door to anything. Let’s open the door to the Lord! Let’s surrender to Him! Let’s ask Him in all things! He is the door! He is the way! His is the truth!

Let’s focus on the Kingdom! The door to Heaven! We have the keys to the Kingdom! Are you going to keep opening the door to what is not of God? He really loves you. He really loves you. He really loves you.

About The Author

“A

by Heather Guthrie

Heather Guthrie, daughter of the King dancing in the deep and encouraging others with truth. She loves to meet people where they’re at in ministry.

She can be reached at Higuthrie215@gmail.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 // May 2023

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

Disciples of Christ

First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161

Episcopal

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 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

GracePoint Rome 43 Chateau Court Rome, Ga 30161 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 Beech Creek Church 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-1018 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 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 1818 Kingston Hwy 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

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 Parents

Empty-Nesters

M

by Kristen West

y husband and I are empty-nesters. The

them, rising early in the morning to offer burnt

days of making little lunches, working

offerings for all of them.”

through endless piles of laundry, and

“For Job thought, ‘Perhaps my children have

juggling a variety of extracurricular activities are over.

sinned, having cursed God in their hearts.’ This was

Our four children are all grown and living their own

Job’s regular practice” (vs. 5).

independent lives. I smile to see them happily settling

Even as an empty-nester, Job continued to

into their own marriages, careers, and families. As

spiritually cover his grown children in prayer! He

parents, though, that transition can be challenging,

continued to exercise his God-given parental authority

can’t it?

We spend decades providing for them, instructing them, and ultimately, preparing them to leave us and our homes. Yet, when the time finally comes for them to vacate the nest, we sometimes struggle to understand what our new role is. Many times, we try to continue to be a remote extension of what we once were when they lived in our house.

As a result, we insert ourselves where we’re not invited; offer advice when it’s not solicited; and try to co-manage their decisions and jump in to offer damage control if we see things not going so well. Speaking

to bring his kids before God’s throne regardless of

from experience, that generally doesn’t help.

their age or station in life. Can you think of anything

The book of Job offers a wonderful example of how we, as parents, can continue to influence the lives of

more influential than this?

Our children will grow up, move out, and embark

our children for good, even when they’re grown, out of

on their own lives. Our days of in-home nurturing

our homes, and making their own decisions. Job’s sons

will come to a close. But the truth that should comfort

“used to take turns having banquets at their homes”

every parent’s heart is simply this—while your

and would invite their sisters to join them (Job 1:4

children will eventually be beyond your reach, they

CSB). There’s no record of Job attending these house

will never be beyond your prayers!

was over, Job would send for his children and purify

18 // May 2023

About The Author

parties, however “whenever a round of banqueting Kristen West works at Rock Bridge Community Church with a heart for staff leadership, development, and care. She is a communicator with a passion to inspire, encourage, and challenge others in their daily walk with Christ. She writes and publishes weekly content on her blog at kristen-west.com.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

T

The Pool Store

by Danny House

he Pool Store is where you can find swimming

As part of the business landscape in Rome, we have

pools and all your pool supplies. The store itself

had the pleasure of not only being Rome’s go-to pool place

has had several owners throughout the years

but also being part of several of our community’s events

while being in continuous operation since 1971, making

and organizations. These include the Rome-Floyd Parks

it the oldest full-service pool store in Floyd County. The

and Recreational Department, Relay for Life, the YMCA,

company grew to its current state via the entrepreneurial

Mercy Senior Care, and Toys for Tots, and we are strong

dreams of its founders, Tom Fox and Dave Ficquette, both

supporters of Rome’s Masonic and Shriners’ clubs. The list

of whom began their careers in the pool industry with

goes on, as giving back to the community that supports us

Leslie’s Pool Supplies, one of the largest pool suppliers

is one of the cornerstones of our business practices. We are

in the U.S., many years before coming to Rome in 2000. I

truly grateful for these opportunities when they arise.

joined the team in May of 2010 and have had the privilege

There is an unwritten saying in the swimming pool

of being a part of The Pool Store ever since. Between the

industry: “Once you’re in, there’s no getting out.” While

three of us, we have over 70 years of pool professional

some may view this as having a negative connotation, I

experience, most of that expertise belonging to Dave.

don’t foresee any of us getting out anytime soon simply

Being part of this organization has been one of the

because we love serving both our customers and our

greatest opportunities of my professional career. I take joy

community. Whether it’s a first-time pool owner or one

in the fact that we are such a close-knit team with a staff

of our many repeat customers who have owned a pool so

that feels more like family than co-workers. In fact, a great

long their great-great-grandkids are learning to swim in it,

many of our customers just assume we are family. It gives

we want to be a part of your swimming pool experience.

real meaning to the saying, “Not all family is blood.”

20 // May 2023

We know that a swimming pool is a lot of work, but owning one is worth the investment and time. Our goal

is to make the demands of pool ownership easier for you.

Whether you need a one-time repair, weekly cleaning service throughout the year, products and supplies, or are just getting started adding a pool of your own to your backyard, we can help.

Whether you intend to build a new swimming pool or would like to upgrade an existing one, we promise to provide quality work, strong customer service, and the full breadth of our experience. We can help you design a project that is as simple or as complex as you envision, taking into consideration all pertinent factors such as the site, the budget, and of course, any city or county guidelines that need to be taken into account. Ensuring our customers’ satisfaction is key, so we take the time to walk each customer through the process, making sure any questions are answered before, during, and after the completion of the project.

Backed by years of hands-on experience in the poolbuilding industry, we stay with you every step of the way to monitor the pool construction process and ensure that your pool is completed promptly, correctly, and precisely to your satisfaction. And we will always be nearby to

chemical application instructions and year-round pool care to make your life easier.

Our service team is fast, efficient, and on time. We are knowledgeable and conscientious when it comes to the needs of our customers and pride ourselves on the level of care we provide, which is evident by the number of repeat customers and referrals we receive. Regardless of what the question may be, feel free to reach out to us and give us the opportunity to earn your loyalty as well. The only thing stronger than our chlorine is our love for our customers!

answer your questions, provide expert pool service, and be the swimming pool professionals you can rely on.

We also know that understanding the products you use to maintain your pool is paramount to keeping it clean and protecting it through the years. We carry professional brands of pool products you can rely on. Our customers agree that they see better results using full-concentration chemicals and high-quality tools.

In addition, our staff is specialized. We are pool professionals, not sales associates. Rely on us to answer your questions and advise you on products and pool care. We offer free in-store water testing with step-by-step

goodnewscm.com // 21

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Color in the Clouds

“The Heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork” (Ps. 19:1).

A

by Terrie Ruff fter work I decided to pick up something quick

and saw nature as a witness of God’s creation. The red

for dinner and run another errand before

revealed His loving sacrifice for my sins and the sins of

heading home. Honestly, I was distracted by

the whole world. And the yellow seemed to be shouting

several thoughts that day and wanted peace of mind. I

to me that I had the Son of Righteousness in my life, and

kept dwelling on my “issues,” and before long, I began

that the sun would shine again! I would smile again and

to feel down. I tried to call several friends and no one—I

my tears were temporary. And the “Son” was shining,

mean no one—was available! I then began to get angry

and I was smiling. Hallelujah. What a colorful God!

because I try to always be there for them, now I couldn’t find anyone (my self-pity party had begun).

With only voice messages and silence, I had almost

I will never forget that colorful cloud and how God showed up at just the right time in a wonderful display of color, reminding me that He delights to be with me

worked myself into tears when I noticed ahead of me

and that by any means necessary, He will come to me

a bright, colorful cloud! The first color was blue, then

when I need Him the most. Even if it’s in the form of a

red and yellow! It looked as if the sun was reflecting

colorful cloud!

the colors off of the fall trees in the surrounding area,

How has God “wowed” you lately? How has nature

and I was able to witness fall colors in the sky! I was so

reminded you of God’s love, watch, care, and protection of

amazed at this sight that I forgot about my “issues” and

you? The next time you see something extraordinary in

began to focus on the awesome Creator God I serve. Just

nature, consider it a gift/reminder from God just for you!

at the moment of a tearful breakdown, He gave me a The colors I saw were peaceful and calming. The blue brought me to my knees as I worshipped God

22 // May 2023

About The Author

reason to smile!

Terrie E. Ruff is a public speaker, soloist and inspirational author. She is an active member of the Orchard Park SDA Church in Chattanooga.

Terrie can be contacted at Terrie.Ruff@lpnt.net.

Church Activities & Events First Baptist Church of Lindale Sunday Morning Small Groups May 7 | 9:45AM - 11AM 9 Park Ave SE, Lindale, GA

Floyd County Sheriff’s Office Boston Butt Sale & Raffle May 20 | 12PM - 2PM 109 Bells Ferry Rd, Rome, GA

Coosa Valley Fairgrounds

Third Annual Spring in the Valley Festival May 20 | 10AM - 4PM 1400 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Rome, GA

Gò0dNews for Youth

Sharing the Burden

E

by Danny Hesterly

very Thursday, I get up at 4:45 a.m. to play basketball

family and friends. If you’ve lived for more than a minute,

with a few of my buddies. It’s never easy getting up

you know how crazy and difficult this can be.

at that time. I’ve been doing this for over a year now,

Jesus loved with no strings attached. He was willing to

and I never want to get out of bed. This week I’m playing

be inconvenienced daily. Jesus’ heart was constantly being

basketball, and I’m already dreading the annoying sound

moved with compassion as He interacted with people. Jesus

my alarm clock is going to make.

was the perfect embodiment of outrageous love in action.

The only positive thing about getting up that early is

If Jesus lived like this, we, too, should be doing the same

going to pick up my little brother to play basketball with

thing. To be called a Christian is to be like Jesus in every

me. I’m the one who is usually doing the pick-up, but every

way possible.

once in a while, he messages me: “Hey Danny, let me pick

This month, what are some of the ways you can share in

you up for basketball this week.” Do you know what that

the troubles of those you care about? It doesn’t mean getting

means for me? I get to sleep an extra twenty-five minutes!

in trouble with those you care about, but how you can be

Praise Jesus! It makes a huge difference knowing that my

a voice of encouragement and a present friend. Psalm 46:1

little brother is willing to pick me up from time to time and

says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help

share in those early morning drives to the gym.

in times of trouble.” If God is present in our lives during

Galatians 6:2 says, “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”

As followers of Jesus, we are called to live

times of trouble, we should also be present in the lives of those we care about when tough times come their way.

Have you ever tried to lift a sleeper sofa (a

a holy life. To live a holy life simply

couch with a bed in it) by yourself? Those

means that our behaviors are not

things are super heavy. By having just

to copy the world’s behaviors. Our

one other person to help lift an end of

lives are to reflect the character

the couch, it dramatically decreases the amount of weight you are lifting. It’s

and actions of Jesus. When

the same way in helping those

we share each other’s burdens, we are

in trouble. By being a present

obeying the law of

friend, you are sharing in their burden by helping

Christ. What is the

make it lighter for them

“law of

to carry. Go and be

Christ?”

that kind of person

To love

this week.

and to be willing to share the and the challenges of our

24 // May 2023

About The Author

pain, the hard moments, Danny Hesterly lives in Chattanooga, TN where he spends most of his days in coffee shops helping others discover their part in God’s amazing story.

Danny has two children (12, 10) and has been married to his lovely bride for 17 years.

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Gò0dNews for Life

He Called First

by Chase Holtzclaw

I

magine what it would be like if God had a cell phone.

We get to the point where we feel we have let our Father

Imagine if you had His number saved in your phone

down. In this frame of mind, we find ourselves defeated

as Father God. You can reach out to Him anytime you

and often lonely. We fall off the wagon or backslide, as

want to text or call Him. You can speak to your Father

they used to say. We tend to forget who God really is to us.

anytime you want, knowing when you text or call, He

We forget how much He is for us, and yes, I meant to say,

would answer you. What would you do if you had this

“how much He is for us.” Remember what the Word says,

ability to communicate with Him in

“If God is for you, who can be against

this way? Would you text Him all the

you?” (Romans 8:31).

When we become a child of God,

time or call Him for everything? Or would you not want to bother Him

He is our Father, no question about

because you thought He was busy?

it. He becomes our Father who loves

What would you do with such a gift

us and is for us. He may not like

as this? What if Father sent you a text

all the things we do or how we act

every day and told you good morning

sometimes but He loves us the same.

and how much He loves you. It

We must remember these things and

would be wonderful to feel that love

keep them close to our hearts. When

from your Father every day.

we get away from Father, it is not Him

After a while, when life gets busy,

who leaves us. It is not Him who stops

would you start to see Father is calling

calling. Father always keeps His phone

but hesitant to pick up the phone?

charged and right beside Him. He

Maybe you’re too busy today to have

always wants to talk to His children

a conversation with Him, or you could

and make sure we know how much He

not be in the right mood to talk to your

loves us. He is always willing to give

Father. A little time goes by, and you’re

you the best advice even if it’s not what

just not where you want to be in life, or

you want to hear. If you have stopped

you have things in your life you know

calling Father back, now is the best

that your Father would not like, so you

time to dial His number. He may speak

don’t respond back to Him. After all,

with a whisper, but you, His child, will

it is not hard to get busy or feel a little

know His voice. It is never too late to

ashamed or embarrassed sometimes. Each time He calls and

call God. He is waiting up day and night to hear your voice.

you do not answer, more guilt fills your heart. Days turn

He loves you so much. I pray you make that call today. I

into weeks, and weeks into months.

pray you get the chance to hear Father’s voice. It will change

Either way you want to look at it, if we do not keep in

your life.

lost the relationship we built with Him. We feel guilty for not building that connection to become closer with Him.

26 // May 2023

About The Author

touch with our Heavenly Father, we feel as though we have Chase Holtzclaw has three wonderful kids.

God saved Chase’s life by showing him He has a better way. Chase prays that he can show his children how to love God above everything and to love their neighbor as themselves.

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Gò0dNews Poetry

Master Of My Soul

by Judy Hood

He is the Master of my soul Everyday I make heaven my goal I walk the very narrow straight One day St. Peter will let me through the gate I bow my head as I fast and pray I know He will be with me all the way My journey is long, but my heart beats strong Nothing can keep me from the throng I love my Lord more than life, you know I gave Him my heart, I gave Him my soul So if you would like to live in heaven too Just humbly bow, He’s been waiting for you 28 // May 2023

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.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

What’s In a Name?

A

by Dr. Alan D. Hix

re you happy with your birth name, or do you wish

encountered outside ancient Jerusalem, is described as a

your parents had thought more about it before they

priest of El Elyon, “God Most High.” At Beersheba, Abraham

made it official? Parents-to-be choose names for a

plants a tree and calls upon El Olam, or “Everlasting God.”

variety of reasons. Some go with which names are trending

In the Covenant renewal ceremony held after the Israelites

at the time. Others choose a name based on how it sounds.

entered the Promised Land, Joshua refers to God as El Berith,

My parents admitted to naming me after a popular movie

or “God of the Covenant.”

star. Many parents seek to incorporate names from their

One name for God that is not as well-known as others comes in Genesis 16:13. Although Abraham and Sarah use Hagar as a surrogate in order to have a child, once Sarah sees that Hagar is pregnant, she forces her to flee their camp. God finds Hagar alone in the wilderness, and he promises her that her child, although not the child promised to Abraham, will be the father of a great people. In response to God’s promise, Hagar calls God El Roi, or “The God who sees.”

“You are a God of seeing,” for she said, “Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.” Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi (the well of the Living One who sees me) (Genesis 16:13-14).

Have there been times in your life when you felt all alone? Have there been times when it seemed that there

family tree to carry on a family’s legacy. Our daughter’s first

was no solution to your problem and no one to help? Have

name is my wife’s maiden name. As she had only sisters, this

there been times when all your hopes and dreams lie broken

was a way to continue to remember that side of the family.

at your feet? Have you ever asked the question, “Where is

When we look at names from the Bible, they often

God in my pain?”

reflect a particular trait or value. “Jacob” means “trickster”

Hagar’s story gives us a beautiful picture of God for

or “supplanter.” As we read his story, his actions match his

our troubled times. Regardless of the difficulties and the

name. Sometimes, portions of the divine name are included.

challenges of our circumstance, we are never alone, for our

“Joshua,” for example, means “Yahweh is Salvation” or

God is one who sees us. He knows who we are and all the

“Yahweh saves.” The Greek name “Jesus” is a translation of

burdens that threaten to overwhelm us. He not only sees

“Joshua.” Understanding this, the message from the angel to

us, but he also gives us the promise of his presence. With

Joseph becomes poignant: “You shall call his name Jesus, for

Hagar, we can declare that he is the God who looks after

he will save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21).

us. Because God sees us, we can trust him to provide all we

By the time God revealed his divine name to Moses on

need, even in the most difficult of times.

the mountain, the Hebrews had been attributing names to character. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob referred to God as El Shaddai, or “God Almighty.” Melchizedek, whom Abraham

30 // May 2023

About The Author

God based on actions he performed or some aspect of his

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.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

April Showers

W

by Janice Washington

e’ve all heard the old adage: “April showers bring May flowers.” Sit down with an apple blossom or a chrysanthemum. Go ahead, get real up close and personal: “Chrysanthemum, you’re sporting a lovely fuchsia heugh this season. May I ask where you got it? Apple Blossom, your fragrance is to die for. May I ask how you acquired it?” If you listen carefully, they—like a great aunt with a southern drawl—will chuckle back, “Oh this old thing? I got it from April Showers.” May’s flowers are a direct result of April’s showers. This natural

dynamic has metaphorical value and its sentiment is echoed throughout God’s word.

You see, May dawns the glitz, but April holds the grit. May epitomizes freshness—birds are chirping, bees are buzzing, and animals are coming out of hibernation.

May sings lead while April harmonizes in the background under dim lighting. April is to Calvary what May is to Resurrection. Psalm 30:5 puts it this way, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Isaiah 61:3 describes it as an exchange of sorts: beauty for ashes, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, and the oil of joy instead of that of mourning.

While April’s raindrops are pummeling the earth, we all know that May’s flowers are coming. There is something about a picturesque May that puts a messy April into context. We tolerate the former in anticipation of the latter.

One is to be endured, the other to be enjoyed. Call it

32 // May 2023

perspective, call it comfort, call it crazy, but isn’t it the birth of a child that makes the labor pains worth it?

Romans 8:28 makes it clear that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Suppose, however, that (metaphorically speaking) the awareness of May does not eliminate the sting, impact, nor trauma of April. What solace does the word offer us when life is not so cut and dry? What do we do with miscarriages, relapses, natural disasters, infidelity, eating disorders, paralysis? How do we cope when the pain is graphic, deep, and ugly? What happens when life intrudes upon our stability in taboo shades of cancer, molestation, poverty, identity confusion, postpartum depression, pornography addiction, and PTSD, to name a few? What is the answer when the promise of May’s flowers is not enough to process the gravity of April’s showers? When the mud won’t wash away, when the imagery remains long after the monsoon has passed?

One word: “Gethsemane.” It is the intersection of humanity and deity, where Christ grappled with the task before him. A reckoning place. A grayness. Under the weight of expectation, a vulnerable savior prayed with blood, sweat, and—I imagine—tears for an alternative. Yes, a resurrection was His to claim, but crucifixion was the prerequisite. Liberation was the final destination, but torture was the vehicle that would get Him there. Gethsemane literally translates to “oil press.” This was a place of pressing, where friends slept while He carried the weight of the world. In honest prayer, He pressed beyond “Can this cup pass from Me? to “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

Sometimes April lingers and you are up to your waist in flood water, debt, unforgiveness, chemo treatments, or even suicidal thoughts. Sometimes you are seeking desperately for a way out, an alternative to the storm. The promise of May’s flowers can seem far off, a faint whisper competing for your faith over the sound of thunder. May God’s sovereignty settle like a healing balm until raindrops give way to sprouts and Gethsemane ushers in courage. Oh, and the next time you cross a chrysanthemum or an apple blossom, perhaps you will be the pinnacle of the garden this time. “Reader, just where did you get that glow?”

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Was This the Last One?

T

by John Garrod

he troubles had begun before Thanksgiving, with

in the door of my mind. A thought began to haunt me:

problems that even left my primary care physician

Was this Christmas just past my last one?

at the VA scratching her head a bit. She tossed out

possibilities and acronyms with no certainty to any of them. The one thing that stuck in my head was that this problem needed to be fixed, and soon.

Then in January, came one of those voicemail messages you don’t ever want to get. Based on a scan

And then I began to do the wise thing. I began to pray. I began to look at the Word.

The reality is, yes, I am going to die. Short of the Rapture coming soon (today before lunch would be fine, Lord), something will get the better of this body.

Cancer? Tailgaters on a wet I-75? Random Chinese

I had done last July (yes, 6 months prior), a doctor

weather balloon falling on me? I don’t know. I don’t

somewhere in the system determined I had a form of

know how, and I don’t know when. I don’t know if it will be peacefully in my sleep, or screaming like the passengers in my car at the time.

But just as much as I don’t know the how or when, I do know how it turns out.

God will still be God, and Jesus will still be my savior. Every promise He gives me in the Word will be true, and I 110% believe that when that day does come, as I enter the gates of heaven, I will in no way whatsoever be concerned about cancer, tailgaters, or the indignity of death. I won’t spare a thought as to whether I have a good doctor or not.

I won’t be second-guessing my dietary choices. On that day, I will cry no tears and feel no fear, nor will I ever do any of these

cirrhosis, a suspicious spot on my liver, and I needed to

again. The road of life between this point and there may

be evaluated for home health care. (That last bit was an

be rife with potholes, detours, and washouts, but the

error; the doctor’s assistant just basically guessed at the

destination is worth the disturbances.

meaning of an abbreviation on a note from the doctor and left that on my voicemail.)

Don’t ever Google medical stuff. It’s a bad idea. Two hours in, I was convinced I was rabid or maybe had

“And He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and death will be no more, nor will there be sorrow or crying or pain anymore; for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

by the time I was done, I was almost ready to just go dig a hole somewhere. Fear was trying to stick its size 18 shoe

34 // May 2023

About The Author

ovarian cysts. Pretty unlikely for a 58-year-old man, but John Garrod is father of 6, husband of 1, an ESOL teacher in Dalton, GA, a Lee U graduate (c/o ‘19), a U.S. Army veteran and a member of South Cleveland COG.

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Gò0dNews Community Spotlight

I

Deputy Mike Williams Floyd County Sheriff’s Office

n early 2023, Deputy Mike Williams at the Floyd County

Fischer Lord and the chapel praise team, including raffles,

Sheriff’s Office was diagnosed with cancer in the neck

giveaways, fellowship, and prayer time. Thank you to all

and throat area. This mass has developed rapidly and will

that donated and bought Boston Butt and raffle tickets.

require extensive radiation and chemotherapy. We are trying

Events Coming Up:

to collect money to help with his medical bills and family.

Yard Sale Saturday, May 6 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

2602 Lakeview Dr NW Rome, GA 30165 Deputy Williams is well known for his community service with his bloodhound K9 Doc. Before K9 Doc, Deputy

Boston Butt Sale

Williams had another bloodhound, K9 Snickers. K9 Snickers

See Deputies for tickets

was a beloved member of the community, tracking down

Also sold at Line-X by Braves Stadium

missing people and wanted people for ten years.

Saturday, May 20 | 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Deputy Williams is passionate about helping those in need. Deputy Williams helped start and run the Floyd

Pick-up at Rome Shriners Club 109 Bells Ferry Rd

County Sheriff’s Posse long before coming to work at the Sheriff’s Office. He is the state coordinator of Georgia for the CUE Center For Missing People, helping to bring in searchers and resources from other states and local agencies to assist in locating missing people. He is also very active with the RomeGaCares program in helping those affected by disasters here and across the U.S. Thank you for the awesome night at Proctor Farms.

On Saturday night, over 300 people gathered to have a fundraiser and time of prayer for Mike Williams. His brothers and sisters of the thin blue line and people across the community joined together for BBQ, music by

Raffle Tickets Drawing Saturday, May 20 at 2:00 p.m.

Includes: • 5.56 Rifle Daniel Defense DDM4V7 ($1740 value) Coosa Valley Public Safety • Line-X Bed Liner ($500 value) • Stonebridge Golf Outing • Meadow Lakes Golf Outing • Chainsaw • Leaf Blower Many more items to be added! Raffle for custom Case Knife with K9 Snickers, K9 Doc and badge on the knife. $5 each or 5 tickets for $20. Contact Deputies Dupree, Kirkpatrick, Taylor or Rigdon to purchase (Drawing May 13).

Chaplain David Thornton—706-506-6120 Deputy Corey Bowers—706-936-7654

36 // May 2023

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

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W

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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

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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.

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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

Pentecost

S

by Brent Goodge

even weeks following the Passover, the Israelites

of Christ’s commission. The man wasn’t a theologian, but

celebrated the Feast of Weeks. Seven weeks after

he could tell an audience who wouldn’t listen to Jesus

the original Passover during the deliverance from

what the power of Christ had accomplished in his life. And

Egyptian slavery, God spoke His Ten Commandments to

when Jesus returned to the region, this man’s missionary

Israel. This was the inauguration of the nation of Israel as

efforts resulted in a massive harvest of souls for the

His people.

kingdom of God.

On an annual basis, the Feast of Weeks would usually occur during our month of May. It was a thanksgiving

Seven weeks after Jesus died and was raised from the dead, the Holy Spirit fell on the apostles. One hundred and

celebration for the spring harvest and a prayer of faith for a strong autumn harvest. It was one of the three annual feasts all adult Israelite males were commanded to attend.

The morning after calming the sea, Jesus met a man the world would consider hopeless. Demonic powers had granted him strength in all the wrong ways. The man could rip irons out of rock, but he had no power to go find Jesus for supernatural deliverance. Like the lamb lost on the hills, the only hope for this man was that the Good Shepherd would come looking for him.

While His frightened disciples ran away, Jesus stayed, unafraid to complete the mission His Father had sent Him to do that day. Bring home the lost sheep. In the presence of Almighty God, the demons trembled. Begging Jesus not to send them to torment for

twenty disciples became 3,000 in a day. The Gospel went to

torturing one created in His image, the demons asked

the known world in one generation. Deliverance on Calvary

to invade a herd of pigs. Jesus granted their request but

had led to the early harvest at Pentecost.

demanded they leave His child immediately.

Almost instantaneously, the onlookers were distraught

That 3,000 has grown to over two billion who claim to follow Jesus today. The final harvest is fast approaching. Are

that a massive value of pigs drowned in the lake. But the

we telling others what Jesus has done for us? Are we finding

Father in heaven was rejoicing that another child had been

the lost sheep? Or do we run away from “losers?” If we

brought home. Jesus had done it again.

have received the deliverance from Christ, if we have been

The man had been delivered from slavery to sin and the devil. He was now a living symbol of the early harvest

inaugurated as His people, then how can we possibly have any higher priority until He returns?

of souls. Falling to his knees in gratitude and worship, the followers. But Jesus said, “No.” He had received the power of Christ’s redemption. Now he would receive the power

38 // May 2023

About The Author

man begged Jesus for permission to join the band of His Brent Goodge lives in Whitfield County and prays for focus to listen for the Master’s voice rather than staring at the surrounding waves.

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