Volume 15, Issue 7
Feature Articles
DECEMBER 2 0 1 3 Columns page 2
Publisher’s Note
page 20
Jason Watson
Home for the Holidays
page 4
by Rachel Fisher Discover how River Region ministries are providing a place the forgotten can call home during the holidays. Find out easy and affordable ways you can help their cause and bless someone this Christmas!
Pastor's Perspective Pastor Tim Thompson, Frazer Memorial UMC
page 14
Dave $ays Dave Ramsey
page 16
Shine
page 23
2013 Christmas Events Guide
Local churches offer numerous ways to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. Check our guide for all the details!
Kim Hendrix
page 18
The Intersection Bob Crittenden
page 26
Family Teams for Christ
page 30
Lisa and Mike Conn
A Heavenly Christmas
page 32
by Steven Clark Goad Learn the many reasons believing in the Christ child and Christ the Savior makes good sense. While it is certainly about having “faith”, it is also a logical conclusion when looking at the facts and history surrounding Christmas.
Counselor’s Corner Pamela Boswell
page 34
Grace to You John MacArthur
page 39
Get the Point?
On Our Cover . . .
Elaine Britt
In Every Issue
Merry Christmas from River Region’s Journey magazine! May Christ be the center of your heart and your home this holiday season!
page 6
On the Bookshelf page 8
Around Our Community page 36
Event Calendar page 40
Movie Reviews 1
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Our Mission... We believe the Good News concerning the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is worth sharing with our friends and neighbors in the River Region. Each month we deliver this life-changing message to the centers of activity across our community in a user-friendly and relevant way to empower and equip all those seeking to grow closer to God. Join us in this mission by sharing a copy with your neighbor or by becoming an advertising partner starting next month.
Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@readjourneymagazine.com
Publisher
Jason Watson jason@readjourneymagazine.com
Research Editor Wendy McCollum
Contributing Writers Pamela Boswell Elaine Britt Lisa and Mike Conn Bob Crittenden Rachel Fisher Steven Clark Goad Kim Hendrix John MacArthur Dave Ramsey Dr. Tim Thompson Gail Welborn
Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson, Joe Bass ads@readjourneymagazine.com (334) 213-7940 ext 703
Ad Design
Tim Welch, Welch Designs
Distribution Team Kristy Brennan Wendy McCollum Chris Mitchell Manzie Moore Richard Ward Lesa Youngblood
From the Publisher I didn’t grow up in a home that went to great lengths to make Christ the focus of Christmas. My mother was a Christian, but my father didn’t become a believer until I was in my twenties, so Christmas was mostly about getting what you asked for from Santa. And as long as I was pretty good, Christmas was awesome! Later, as my faith was being developed, my desire for Christmas to be something “more” grew and grew. I wanted to break away from the commercial version of Christmas because celebrating the birth of Jesus, who came to save the world from the curse of sin and death, had to mean more than watching Christmas Vacation one more time. Even though years have gone by and I now try to lead our family in focusing on Jesus the Messiah, I still have to reorient myself every year back to the meaning of Christmas. If you can relate to my struggle, we have several articles that you’ll find encouraging. On page 30 you’ll enjoy A Heavenly Christmas. Author Steven Clark Goad does some digging into the facts and meaning behind the birth of Jesus. This is the kind of article you can share with friends, both Christians and unbelievers, to give some thoughtful consideration to the amazing act of the Son of God being born in a stable. Also, regular columnist John MacArthur looks into a statement someone once shared, saying, “I celebrate Christmas, but don’t know why Jesus came.” Maybe this statement matches your own thoughts about Christmas. If so, then it’s a must that you read Pastor MacArthur’s response. So many of us are blessed beyond measure. Of course, that begins with knowing Christ as our Lord, but we also experience the blessings that come from living in a country that embraces hard work and opportunity. On Christmas, when our tables are full of tasty food and gifts are being exchanged while listening to the sounds of Christmas in the background, we recognize our blessings. As Christians, though, we know above all else that God has blessed His people to be a blessing to the world. That’s why this month we also wanted to showcase several local ministries that are providing a place the forgotten can call home during the holidays. From the orphaned to the poor, read the stories of these ministries and share them with your family on Christmas. I talk to many Christians in the community who want to give back, especially during Christmas. These ministries are a great place to begin. After you read the article on page 20 give them a call and ask how you can be a blessing. As 2013 comes to a close, I want to thank all of you for allowing River Region’s Journey to walk with you on your spiritual journey. We hope the good news we share is used by God to draw you close to Him. For some of you, Journey may be the only way you’re currently connecting with God. We’re so glad you’ve chosen us, but let me also encourage you to get connected with a local Christian church. In the church you’ll find good teaching from the Word of God along with special people who will love you. We’ve included a list of Christmas events in the River Region on page 23, so if you’re not connected with a church I hope you’ll pick one to attend this month. Merry Christmas!
River Region’s Journey is published monthly by Keep Sharing, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123. For information, call 334-213-7940. River Region’s Journey is copyrighted 2013 by KeepSharing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The opinions expressed in River Region’s Journey are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. River Region’s Journey has the right to refuse any content that is not consistent with its statement of faith.
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Pastor’s Perspective
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Pastor Dr. Tim Thompson, Frazer Memorial UMC
Where Are You Living Right Now? In the year 1247, the Roman Catholic Church built a hospital in England which was named St. Mary’s of Bethlehem. It was a good hospital by the standards of the time, and within two generations it had gained considerable prominence as being one of the few hospitals in Europe where the mentally ill were treated like sick human beings instead of like animals. When Henry VIII seized all the property of the Roman Catholic Church in 1536, St. Mary’s of Bethlehem was completely converted into a mental hospital accommodating some fifty to sixty people. The hospital reverted to an old-fashioned view of mental illness and it became nothing more than a holding pen for crazies and where people were just warehoused. In the dead of the night, surrounding
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residents could hear the distressed cries and clamors of the mentally ill people. Throughout the years, the English people contracted the full name of the hospital, St. Mary’s of Bethlehem, to simply Bethlehem. But the common people further contracted the word Bethlehem to the word Bedlam. Hence, the beautiful idea of St. Mary’s of Bethlehem as a place to treat the ill became Bedlam, a new word for confusion and disorder. It has remained to this day the standard word for disorder, and most people who use the word Bedlam have no idea it was a beautiful name of a healing institution called St. Mary’s of Bethlehem. It is an interesting thought to me during this Christmas season. Where are you living right now? Are you in Bethlehem or Bedlam? Bedlam is a place of confusion, chaos, disorder, stress, pain. Bethlehem is a place of peace, healing, serenity, and calm. Where are you right now? Are you living in Bethlehem or Bedlam? All you have to do is turn on the news or read the papers daily and you read about a world that is in the midst of political, economic, cultural, and moral bedlam. Even if you don’t watch the news, many of you have had plenty of turmoil and bedlam in your own life. Nothing creates so much chaos and bedlam as the grief of loved ones lost, broken relationships, tight finances, lost 4
jobs, guilt over bad choices, shattered dreams, broken hearts, chronic illnesses, over-scheduled days, and more to get done than seems possible. We all know what bedlam is like. I suppose that because there is so much bedlam, that God chose to reveal Himself in a baby named Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem. God’s statement to you and me from Bethlehem is in Jesus Christ, there is a center of serenity, calm, and peace, even in a world filled with bedlam. Long before Jesus was born, Isaiah prophesied about His birth in 9:16, “For unto us a child is born, a Son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called wonderful Counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Jesus brings peace. In the birth announcement in Luke 2:13-14, the angels proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” The angels felt the presence of peace being born in Bethlehem. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give unto you.” Wherever Jesus lives there is peace. So what will it be for you this Christmas, Bethlehem or bedlam? Are you worn out from the bedlam? Bethlehem is where you belong. It is your true home. No matter what the chaos outside, no matter the turmoil and stress and confusion in your own life, during this Christmas season I invite you to go to Bethlehem, the center of peace, calm, and serenity. Dr. Tim Thompson is pastor of Frazer Memorial UMC in Montgomery. He is married to Virginia and they have three children. Visit www.frazerumc.org.
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Our Statement of Faith In keeping with Protestant theology, we believe that the Bible, as contained in the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is fully inspired by God and therefore inerrant in the original manuscripts. The Bible is the only essential and infallible record of God’s self-disclosure to mankind. The Scriptures are the authoritative and normative rule and guide of all Christian life, practice, and doctrine. They are totally sufficient and must not be added to, superseded, or changed by later tradition, extra-biblical revelation, or worldly wisdom. The Bible is perfect in every way and shows us how to become and live as Christians. The way of becoming a Christian is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, who came to us, born of a virgin, in full human form while remaining fully God. Jesus was, and is, perfect, and was crucified so that others could live. Three days later He rose from the dead, never to die again. He ascended into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God the Father, where He, the only mediator between God and man, continually makes intercession for His own. Those who have faith in Jesus as their Lord in this life, and Savior from damnation in the next life, now live by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, becoming more like Jesus everyday. We believe that God is one God. The one God has three persons: the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Just as God is one, so also, all believers are to be one. We believe in the unity and fellowship of all those that have faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We are one in Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, His Body, which is composed of all men, living and dead, who have been joined to Him through saving faith. *All editorial content published must be in agreement with our Statement of Faith
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On The Bookshelf
by Gail Welborn
Fifteen Minutes
by Karen Kingsbury, Howard Books, October 29, 2013, 384 Pages, 978-1451647051, $22.99
Karen Kingsbury, who Time Magazine dubbed “Queen of Christian fiction,” exposes the high cost of fame when star-studded dreams become reality. The drama is set amidst the glamour and glitz of a reality show patterned after “American Idol.” When Zach Dylan, Christian song leader and country singer, wins a place on the reality show, he believes God has given him a witnessing opportunity. Zach’s family and fiancée know he’s talented enough to win yet fear the experience will change him. Yet, Zach doesn’t seek or fear fame, his motivation is enough money to end the family’s financial crisis and pay for his little sister’s arthritis and Down’s syndrome treatments. His fiancée Reese promises Zach her support and prayers though she has reservations. Yet she trusts God as much with Zach as she does with her decision about a job commitment in London. Karen captures the behind the scenes action where compromises and important choices come wrapped in the guise of good intentions for judges and contestants alike that disguise the “ratings and profit” motivation. Her life-like characterizations and innovative storyline and themes weave seamlessly into the narrative to reveal issues all Christians face.
Itsy Bitsy Christmas: You’re Never too Little for His Love by Max Lucado (Thomas Nelson, 2013, Hardcover, 32 Pages, Ages 4-7, $14.99) 9781400322626
Master storyteller, Max Lucado adds Itsy Bitsy Christmas to his ever-growing list of popular Christmas titles this year. It’s a joyous Christmas story of two little mice, Itsy and Bitsy and their barnyard friends, Rowdy the Rooster, Charlie the Cow and Ruthie the mama horse who learn, “you’re never too little” or too common for the King to love. The barnyard is a-buzz about the anticipated arrival of the King, yet gossip says he would never visit their barnyard; they just aren’t important enough to draw his attention. Even the contrarian, Grumpy the Goat agreed, and he never agreed with anyone! Join Itsy and Bitsy as they travel to Bethlehem in search of the King, even though wise Mr. Owl told them, “A King in tiny little Bethlehem? You won’t find a King there!” And the camels who were known to carry Kings said, “Kings don’t come to common places like Bethlehem.” Youngsters will clap with delight as Itsy and Bitsy find the King in a stable manger and learn the King “came even for little ones like me,” for all who feel they aren’t “important enough.”
The Promises of God: Discovering the One Who Keeps His Word by R. C. Sproul, David C. Cook, 2013, Hardcover, 272 Pages, 978-1434704238, $19.99
Dr. R. C. Sproul elaborates on God’s promises and covenants, what they are, how they differ, why God is known as the “Promise Keeper” and what “agreement God the Father made with Jesus before the beginning of the world.” In addition to how covenants and forgiveness are interrelated, he explains why Jesus had to die to complete God’s covenant and why God’s covenant with Adam is relevant for Christians today. He begins with why “…the concept of covenant is integral and foundational to...” our lives and times today. Fourteen chapters include introductions, scripture readings, learning objectives, quotes, outlines and a series of multiple choice questions from the material as a study guide. If used for small group studies, ten additional Bible study and discussion questions are incorporated with book suggestions for further study. While not a quick read, The Promises of God should be sipped and not swallowed whole. It’s a book that should be savored in times of quiet reflection to give readers time to appreciate the personal application of the message. River Region’s Journey book reviewer Gail Welborn lives in Sedro-Woolley, Washington. River Region’s Journey
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Saint James UMC Partners with Georgia Washington Junior High
On November 2, 2013 Saint James United Methodist Church partnered with a local middle school, Georgia Washington, for a day of mission work. Over 100 Saint James members came out to support, clean, and work on the campus. Upon arrival, Principal Mrs. Gulley and Secretary Mrs. Crenshaw welcomed the Saint James UMC volunteers with cards, posters, and a wonderful breakfast! As the morning progressed, children made cards for the faculty and the Saint James prayer team prayed blessings over the school and every locker. The building and floors received a deep cleaning, waxing, and the faculty lounge was painted and new carpet was installed! Outside, volunteers pressure washed the walkway that led to the school. Lastly, with shovels in the hands of many volunteers, a walking track for the students, faculty, and community was built to enjoy. Each person walked around the track packing the gravel and prayed over the community as the morning came to end. It was such a wonderful experience to see a church and local school come together to make a difference in our community!
For EvEry G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADI TIO NAL W O RSH I P 8 : 3 0 AM & 11: 00 A M SUNDAY SCH O O L 9 : 4 5 AM TH E W ELL 11 : 0 0 AM
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ROCK Taskforce Promotes Respect Across the Region River Region ROCK—Respect Others, Create Kindness—is a new taskforce that aims to prevent bullying in schools and communities and promote a culture of kindness and respect across the River Region. At a kick-off event held at St. James United Methodist Church, River Region ROCK steering committee members, community leaders and more than 50 representatives from area churches, law enforcement, public and private schools, area businesses and community agencies discussed plans to work together to address bullying. Every seven minutes a child somewhere in the U.S. is bullied, reports the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Because bullying isn’t confined to schools, Laura Hicks, with Stamp Idea Group, said ROCK’s community approach helps spread the message across to diverse groups. “Churches, public and private schools, businesses, non-profit organizations, city and county leaders and law enforcement are all involved because the need for kinder, more respectful communities is universal. Every one of these groups can bring something unique to the table to prevent bullying. We’re committed to preventing bullying over the long haul.” ROCK’s goals are to raise awareness about bullying in all its forms; educate the community and empower young people on ways they can help prevent bullying; promote programs that advocate respect for others; and foster partnerships with community groups to advance the ROCK message. Plans are underway to develop a public awareness campaign that could include public service announcements, presentations for schools and community groups, and signage and billboards. Programs will also be developed. For more information on future events, visit http://facebook.com/RiverRegionRock.
Parents’ Night Out at Christ Community Church
Enjoy a festive night out while supporting Youth Missions! Christ Community Church (8285 Ryan Road) is hosting a Parents’ Night Out on Friday, December 13th from 5:00-9:00pm. The student ministry and leaders will be providing evening childcare in the church theater for children ages 3-12 (younger children must be pottytrained). The cost is $15 per child if preregistered by Thursday, December 12th ($20 per child without pre-registration), and dinner will be provided. This is great opportunity for kids to have fun while parents have a night off to enjoy the holiday season, and all proceeds benefit the students’ 2014 Youth Mission Trip! To register your child, please call Lauren Beach at (334) 273-8110 or send her an email at lb@christccm.net (include your name, ages of children, and a contact phone number).
Christmas Eve Services: HOLY COMMUNION at noon FAMILY SERVICE at 3:30 p.m. CANDLELIGHT SERVICES at 5 & 7 p.m.
2416 W. CLOVERDALE PARK MONTGOMERY, AL 334.834.8990 FUMCMONTGOMERY.ORG 9
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Vince Gill and Amy Grant
Transition Conference 2014 for High School Seniors!
February 14 @ 7:30 p.m. TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Box Office: 334-481-5100 Or visit www.mpaconline.org
Saturday, January 25, 2014 Christ Community Church, 8285 Ryan Road, Montgomery. Details and registration at www.thetransmission.org/transconf.
Drive-Thru Living Nativity in Prattville
This year, East Memorial Baptist Church of Prattville is offering a “Christ-in Christmas Celebration” consisting of two events: A DriveThru Living Nativity on December 7, 5:308:30 pm, and Christmas musical, “Christmas Changes Everything,” on December 15th, at 6 pm. The Drive-Thru Nativity includes more than 120 cast members, as well as live animals, plus Bethlehem, Shepherds, the Stable, The Cross, and the Empty Tomb. Admission is free for both events. Call 334-365-7500 or visit www.eastmemorial.org for more info and location.
Email ministry or church news to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com.
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Highlight on Local Author Barbara Bice
Barbara Bice was born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama. She and her husband moved to Wetumpka, Alabama in the early eighties, where they continue to reside today. They have three sons, three daughters-in-law (like daughters to them) and four grandchildren. Barbara recently retired as a paralegal from a local law office after working thirty-five years for the firm. Approximately four years ago, God put it on Barbara’s heart to write a book about her husband’s addiction to cocaine and his subsequent recovery. The book is titled Just Right (The Road From Addiction to Redemption). It is a true story of how her husband’s addiction tore their lives apart; but, more importantly, it is story of how God rescues people, heals people, and restores lives. Though it is a story of their triumph over her husband’s addiction, the book is written in such a way to give hope and encouragement, not only to addicts and their families, but also to anyone struggling with others issues such as wavering faith, forgiveness, patience, and hopelessness. It is truly a story of hope. In Her Minister’s Words: Barbara Bice has a story that needs to be told. On top of that, she has an amazing gift in telling it. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will learn. You will learn about addiction, how to confront it, and how, by the grace of God, to overcome it. Truly, it is a story that needs to be told and a story you need to read. I have seen firsthand how this story has changed lives. Buddy Bell – Senior Minister, Landmark Church, Montgomery, AL
“Just Right” can be purchased at www.justrightbook.com, Amazon, Kindle, The Nook, and Apple I-Books. Also, please visit Barbara’s Facebook page at Barbara Bice - Just Right.
KNOW S C
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF
USPECTED
A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.
Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n
Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY
n
Should be urgently assessed medically
n
Should not be left alone
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Should not drive a motor vehicle
ThinkFirst _____________________________________________
Alabama
CONCUSSION CLINIC 205.934.1041 www.Childrens AL.org/concussion IN CASE OF MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911 OR GO DIRECTLY TO YOUR LOCAL ER
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24 Area Nonprofits to Participate in 2013 River Region Alternative Gift Fair
Santa’s Helpers Childcare at Holy Comforter
The River Region Alternative Gift Fair aims to provide residents of the River Region a convenient and fun way to give Christmas and other holiday gifts that have a redemptive effect on our community. Shoppers at the fair will be able to buy “gifts” from area nonprofits to honor their family, friends, co-workers, teachers, and clients. Each “gift” will be a financial contribution supporting a specific need of the organization. For example, a shopper might honor her food-loving friend by giving a week’s worth of hot meals to an elderly couple in need. Or a construction business might honor its clients by helping a building-related nonprofit buy building supplies. Gift prices start at $5 and are tax deductible. The Fair will be held Saturday, December 7, 10am to 2pm, in the Drum Theater on the Cloverdale Campus of Huntingdon College (formerly Cloverdale Junior High School), 1125 East Fairview Avenue in Montgomery. Interested persons may visit www.GiveHopeRiverRegion.org to learn more and keep abreast of developments in the planning process. For more information, contact Gift Fair chair Will Parker at (334) 538-8464 or Gift Fair clergy liaison Rev. John Blount at (334) 834-8990.
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Saturday, December 14, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free child care! Drop off your kids at The Church of the Holy Comforter while you shop. We will have activities for them, feed them lunch, and help your children make ornaments. When you get back, we’ll help you wrap gifts for free! Bring your camera for a stress-free picture with Santa. Every child will go home with a dozen fresh-baked cookies. Ages 2 – 12. 2911 Woodley Road, under the water tower off the Southern Bypass. For more information, call 281-1337.
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Q. What are some good ways to teach a 13-year-old kid about giving versus getting during the holiday season? A. One of the best things you can do is simply talk about it—a lot. Kids are bombarded with messages about how important they are, and how they should always have what they want. It’s okay to have some stuff, but advertising and other marketing messages in today’s culture can make them think it’s all about them. It can lead kids to believe the axis of the world runs through the tops of their little heads. Think about this. In 1971, the average person saw 564 advertising impressions a day. Now, that number is about 4,000.
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The purpose of advertising is to disturb and influence you to the point that you’ll buy something. Advertisers want you to believe that you’re not complete without their product, or that you’ll be a happier, cooler, better person with their product. And in most cases, advertising and marketing people are more aggressive in their teaching than parents are in theirs. My suggestion is to find some giving exercises in which you can all participate. You could adopt a single mom at your church. Make it a family outing, and go buy groceries, gifts for her kids or even a Christmas tree. Make sure your kids are involved physically, mentally and emotionally in the entire giving process. Let them experience the grateful, and sometimes ungrateful, responses that go along with giving. And make sure you do some things that don’t involve money. You could take the entire family to help cook and serve dinner at a homeless shelter. One of the best things we ever did as parents with our teenagers was to send them on mission trips. It truly changed their lives. When you see real poverty close up, when you live and walk and sleep in it day after day—I’m talking about deathand-disease poverty, not the American version—it changes your heart. And when you’re 13, it will change your life forever. 14
Tips for Surviving Christmas Financially 1. It’s not an emergency. Christmas is not an emergency, it happens every year. Don’t use this as an excuse to overspend and buy things you can’t afford. 2. Make a holiday budget. Make a list of everyone you are buying a gift for, and put a dollar amount by every name. Total it at the bottom. This is your Christmas budget. You can also check out www.mychristmasbudget.com, a free online budgeting tool to help you easily keep the holidays from wrecking your finances. 3. Pay cash. Put the total from your budget in an envelope, and when the cash is gone stop spending. This will help keep you on budget because if you overspend on Aunt Sue, Uncle Harry won’t get a gift! 4. Avoid debt. If you’re running a little short on cash, talk to your family about spending expectations. Draw names, set price limits or get creative. Don’t go into debt. It’s not worth it!
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HEAD SOUTH AT THE FIRST SIGN OF A
STROKE Get To The Area’s Only Nationally Certified Stroke Center
The first moments after stroke symptoms appear are critical. Receiving the right treatment quickly could save your life and minimize brain damage. That’s why you should immediately get to Baptist Medical Center South. As the area’s only Nationally Certified Stroke Center, Baptist South has a specialized Stroke Team on site 24/7, with the expertise to provide the fastest, most effective treatment. So in case of symptoms such as facial drooping, weakness in one arm, slurred speech, blurry vision, or sudden severe headache, head south…call 911 and get to Baptist Medical Center South.
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SHINE!
by Kim Hendrix
Regifting for All the Right Reasons 2 Timothy 4:2: “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction.”
John 14:27: “I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
Okay admit it, you’ve done it. You’ve taken a gift given to you and given it to someone else as a gift--better known today as “regifting”. Sometimes we regift because the gift is something we don’t really like or feel we will ever use. Most of the time people regift because they already have the gift or they know someone who will enjoy it more than them. In this month of giftgiving, I would like to suggest we regift for all the right reasons. Let’s go from giving something away because we don’t want it, to giving something away because we don’t want anyone to miss it!
The gift of Jesus Christ is something we should be handing out to everyone we meet! And what’s great about sharing this gift...you never actually give it away. It’s yours forever when you receive Him, so you can keep the gift and give it away all at once. When I first grew into a full relationship with our Savior, meaning I finally surrendered everything, every bit of my life to Him, I was pretty focused on my own spiritual growth. It can take a while to realize sharing your faith is actually growing your faith. You may feel ill-prepared, but when you take the leap to “regift” the gift
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of the Holy Spirit, God not only prepares you he rewards you. Suddenly your trust is deeper, your peace stronger, your love for the Lord and others, overflowing. Hey, maybe this “regifting” thing is better than we ever imagined. Ephesians 3:20: “Now glory be to God, who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of--infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts or hopes.”
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It may be as simple as enjoying God’s creation with your family. Several years ago when my daughter Annie was about seven years old, we stood in the driveway finding different shapes in the clouds. “Hey there’s a pig! Look over there it’s a great big boat! And look at that, it’s a duck and a big teddy bear!” I’ll never forget when Annie said, “Wouldn’t it be neat if God is doing this for us... changing these shapes because he knows we’re having fun looking for them.” That led to a simple discussion on how great our God is and all that He gives us every single day. One special gift being passed back and forth between the generations. It may be living out 2 Corinthians 1:4: “...who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” When a neighbor around the corner who I knew only fairly well killed himself, I knew it was time once again
to regift. As I walked to this neighbor’s house, I prayed every step of the way. I was nervous, praying for words and feeling His presence in a mighty way. I shared with this widowed wife and fatherless daughter how my mom had taken her life when I was only 21. I encouraged them not to be mad at God as I had been for too long before allowing our Heavenly Father to comfort me. I could tell them with great certainty that even though at that moment their world was crushed and upside down, through the power of Jesus Christ, their joy would return. Psalm 30:5: “Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” I’m thankful I’ve been on the receiving end of “regifting”. Wonderful, Godly mentors who have poured their time and love into my life through Bible study, min-
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istry and friendship have changed my life forever. Whenever I see young ladies sharing the gift of Jesus with my 13-year-old daughter I thank God for these role models who understand the power of “regifting” the gift of Jesus Christ. As you get your gift list together this Christmas season, don’t forget to regift, especially when you’re doing it for all the right reasons. Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving us the greatest gift of all! We celebrate the birth of your son Jesus Christ, we praise you for his ministry and sacrifice, and thank you for the gift and power of the Holy Spirit. May we cherish and share this gift every day in every way and be prepared to receive you as well in the mightiest form of “regifting”. In the name of your precious son we pray, Amen! Kim Hendrix is the Director of Development at Saint James School in Montgomery. She leads the Shine Your Light ministry at Frazer Memorial U.M.C. and recently ended a 26 year career in television news. Kim and her husband Scott, have a 13-year-old daughter, Annie, who brings them great joy.
December 2013
River Region’s Journey
The Intersection:
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Christian Cultural Commentary by Bob Crittenden
The Lost Are Found A few weeks ago, a significant number of Christians were focused on an unusual set of circumstances involving renowned Bible teacher and Experiencing God author Dr. Henry Blackaby. On a particular Thursday afternoon, he was on his way to pick up his wife, Marilynn, from an appointment, and was reported to be missing – for 29 hours. Indications are that at some point he had suffered a heart attack while driving. He apparently became confused, lost his sense of direction, and attempted unsuccessfully to find his way home. He ultimately was pulled over by police near Tifton, Georgia, about 150 miles south of Atlanta. A statement on the Blackaby Ministries International website said, “He did not have his cell phone with him nor insulin for his diabetes. As a result, his blood sugar rose and his kidneys began to struggle as well.
The family was able to track his movements as he used a credit card to make occasional purchases. The police assigned a detective group to monitor his movements and to track him down. Hundreds of volunteers, many from his church at First Baptist Church Jonesboro, GA drove all over the city looking for him. He is currently in a hospital undergoing extensive tests.” The statement added, “It is clear that God heard and answered the prayers of His people! Thank you to everyone who prayed and helped in the search.” Son Richard tweeted out: “Quadruple bypass surgery on Tuesday. 70-100% blockages. Possible earlier heart attack. He has been empowered by God!” This was truly an amazing story of the Lord’s faithfulness to this great man of God. The ending of this story could have been
much, much worse, and we can be thankful that Dr. Blackaby was found and his medical issues addressed. The story can bring to mind a number of different issues - physical, emotional, and spiritual - that could apply to each of us. First of all, we can be reminded of the power of unified prayer. People began to gather at First Baptist Church of Jonesboro, which is outside of Atlanta, where Dr. Blackaby’s son, Mel is senior pastor - they were praying in unity. Son Richard related that “hundreds of volunteers” went forward to search for his
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We invite you and your family to attend a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 5 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 24, at our new site in Cloverdale. This service will be kid-friendly, last approximately 45 minutes, and will be held at Cloverdale Baptist Church located at 608 East Fairview Avenue, in Montgomery. River Region’s Journey
December 2013
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Learn more about Centerpoint Fellowship Church at www.centeringlives.com
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father. Christian leaders all across America were lending their prayer support and taking to Twitter to spread the word. Law enforcement was definitely engaged as well, plus Atlanta news operations and even national outlets were tracking the events. There was an incredible outpouring of prayer, love, and support, and the community of faith was diligent in calling out to God. Another practical lesson for us is God’s faithfulness and wisdom in life-altering seasons. We can pray for the Blackaby family as they deal with not only some of Dr. Blackaby’s health issues, but also the logistics of caring for him in light of his health concerns, like diabetes, as well as the condition of his heart. There may have to be changes made in his care. We can also think about the helplessness of lostness and the security of Christ. Henry Blackaby was physically lost, it seems, but he certainly was not spiritually lost. Who knows what may have been going through his mind during those 29 hours, but I would imagine that more than once there was a helpless feeling – he was away from home, not exactly knowing how to get back. The family and friends involved in Atlanta were also at a loss, but they had powerful resources in the situation. Of course, they had access to the throne of God in prayer, they had numbers of volunteers, and while Dr. Blackaby did not have a cell phone, he did have a trail that he left by his frequent stops for gas or refreshment on Friday afternoon and evening. God was faithful to provide a rescue for a man who had essentially lost direction, physically. God provides a rescue for those who lose direction spiritually and emotionally, as well. When we wander spiritually, we can recognize that our route can be checked and that God knows who and where we are and He can lead us home. Jesus has come to seek and save the lost - He knows the way to the Father, and will draw people unto Himself. Additionally, in our own lives, if we know the Lord, but have somehow lost our way, we can know that He is with us, He travels with us even in our most desperate circumstances, and He will make a way out and show us the way back. If we feel lost in our walk through this life, we can turn to Christ, the One who walks with us, Who came to earth at Christmas so that those who are lost can be found by Him. Bob Crittenden is host of “The Meeting House”, heard weekday afternoons from 4-6pm on Faith Radio, 89.1FM in Montgomery. Described as “the intersection of faith and culture”, the program features Christian music and conversation about a variety of topics. Learn more by visiting www. meetinghouseonline.info. 19
December 2013
River Region’s Journey
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by Rachel Fisher
The spirit of Christmas sparkles brightest and feels fuzziest when it’s shared. But for many people in the River Region, Christmas is just another day on the calendar. For the forgotten, lost and lonely, December 25th is a day that brings the realities of their desperate situations to light and the pain of being separated from family, a table full of food, and love cuts the deepest. This year, we want to showcase a handful of ministries throughout our capital city who give the gift of honor, dignity and a sense of belonging to those outside the margins this holiday season– a gift lasting longer than a date on the calendar.
Friendship Mission
This year marks the last year Friendship Mission founders Vince and Mary Rosato will celebrate Christmas as the Executive Directors of Friendship Mission. It will also be the first year they celebrate Christmas in their second location in the old Elks Lodge in the Chisolm Community that houses women and children. Mary and Vince have helped feed, clothe and love hundreds since they opened the doors in 1996, and now they are passing the baton as they move toward a new season of ministry and life together. The Friendship Mission serves about 200 people a day and houses 30 people a River Region’s Journey
December 2013
night, but on Christmas day those numbers soar. For the past three years, Mary has sewn handmade quilts of brilliant color and unique designs for the men and women who gather to eat and be cared for and loved. Volunteer Joetta Davis says her most meaningful Christmases were those spent at Friendship Mission: “Pastor Vince Rasato read the Christmas story. I remember sitting beside a prostitute and holding her hand as we sang Christmas carols when I noticed she had tears running down her face. I thought to myself, “Once, she was a little girl who dreamt of getting a doll or special toy.” Afterwards, we had a birthday party for Jesus complete with a special cake that fed over 100.” Joetta remembers the looks on the faces of the men and women as they gave out new blankets, gloves and hats. “It makes one realize how blessed they are to have a home, family, food, and recognize even the forgotten, lost, and lonely desire to be with others on Christmas.” Kellie Guthrie, who has volunteered her time teaching women at Friendship Mission to sew through her company, Re-Invention, has spent the last three Christmases at Friendship. “Vince and Mary and the others at Friendship have, with the warmth of family through the beautiful food and spirit of Jesus’ 20
love, helped fill the gap of family in the lives of those they serve. How You Can Give: $5 can provide a meal for two people this Christmas at Friendship Mission. Donate or call about how you can donate clothing or your time to serve at either location this Christmas.
Mary Ellen’s Hearth at Nellie Burge
Located in the Nellie Burge Community Center, Mary Ellen’s Hearth offers hope, help and healing to the homeless women and children of Montgomery in a first-class environment that allows women to focus on rebuilding their lives successfully. This year, Sharmane Cotton and her son Jeremiah will be celebrating their second Christmas at Mary Ellen’s Hearth. “We have the best gatherings,” says Sharmane. “The volunteers spread holiday cheer and make me and my son feel like family.” Debbie Dobbins, the executive director at MEH, says the women are invited to spend the day with friends or relatives. For others, they provide food and a party full of donated gifts. For the 10 families and 14 children at MEH this year, Dobbins hopes to provide these young mothers and their children with the gift of love coupled with a sense of home.
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How You Can Give: Debbie says their biggest needs are paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, cleaning supplies and financial donations to help with the needs of the women. You can also donate gifts for the children.
Reality & Truth Ministries
Ladonna Brendle with Reality & Truth Ministries says she is looking forward to celebrating the holidays with those she serves, who she lovingly calls her friends. Since 2008, Reality & Truth has been committed to serving the homeless and poor in downtown Montgomery. With a new facility underway, this Christmas will usher the ministry into an exciting year everyone who spends time at 515 South Court Street is looking forward to. Ladonna and her friends will ring in the Christmas spirit early in December as she and those who consider One Church Mission their home base decorate a Christmas tree, hang lights and adorn the doors with wreaths – a welcomed reprieve and taste of home for those without. Not only will they serve dinner and have a time of worship on Christmas Day, but also pass out gifts to all who walk through their doors. Ladonna and a host of volunteers seek to shower these friends with love and provide a place to be home for Christmas. How You Can Give: Contact the ministry at 354-6142 to find out how you can donate clothes, gifts, Christian literature and other needs this Christmas.
Faith Rescue Mission
Similarly, Ken Turner at Faith Rescue Mission says he looks forward to seeing the looks on the faces of those who come to spend Christmas with them. Since 1965, Faith Rescue Mission has helped thousands of hurting men and women get back on their feet as they strive to be known in the community as a faith-based, trusted, comprehensive, valuable outreach to the Least, the Last, and the Lost, through its services, ministry and programs. Not only do they serve a hot meal on Christmas day, but through donated nonperishable food items, they provide 40 pound food baskets filled with everything needed to prepare a hearty holiday meal to help feed families who can’t afford to buy the groceries. Ken says one of the best things about Christmas at Faith Rescue Mission is seeing the community come together to help out, and in turn, provide for people often forget.” How You Can Give: You can have a part in providing for these needy families by dropping off food items at any of their locations. For large food donations you may 21
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River Region’s Journey
also call (334) 262-6024 to schedule a pick up. And it doesn’t stop at Christmas – Faith Rescue Mission helps provide these baskets throughout the year!
AGAPE for Children
This Christmas, AGAPE of Central Alabama is working to make everyday special for foster children. Julie Johnston, who works for AGAPE, says the ministry which serves families across the River Region knows better than anyone that foster care and adoption doesn’t come cheap. It’s a sacrifice and a gift. They are seeking to raise $10,000 – an amount that will not just cover Christmas gifts for children, but the plethora of needs that last long after December 25th is past. So what will this money do? Julie says it will provide: * Christmas presents for foster children. * Help for recruiting Christian foster parents to help us serve MORE children. * Training, licensing and supporting each foster and adoptive parent before, during and after placement. * Reaching out to pregnant women in crisis to counsel them through their decision to parent or make an adoption plan for the unborn child. This is each woman’s decision - not ours! We offer non-directive, fact-based, loving advice. * Continue growing our International Adoption Program. This year we became HagueAccredited to place international children in Alabama homes. We are currently opening our Home Study and Post-Adoption Program and hope to begin placing children in the next two years. How You Can Give: Call AGAPE at 800-239-1020 or visit their website at www. agapeforchildren.org. Whether you give time, money or resources, the hope of these ministries is that our community would engage with their work and be a part of the purpose God is fulfilling through their selfless work long after Christmas is over. And the ministries and organizations available for you to give toward far exceed this list. As Mother Theresa said, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” As we give this Christmas, may we give not from our abundance or our lack, but from the love God has so graciously poured into our hearts. Rachel Fisher loves to learn what God is doing in the world and writing about it. She and her husband Chase live in Montgomery. River Region’s Journey
December 2013
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MONTGOMERY
United Lutheran Church
Aldersgate UMC Christmas Events
Saturday, December 7th, 9 am-2 pm
6610 Vaughn Road, Montgomery
Monday, December 2, 4:30 p.m.
Family Advent Adventure and 6 p.m., Chrismon Service. Crafts and fun activities offered for the family.
Sunday, December 8, 11 a.m. Christmas Musical Drama: The Word Became Flesh.
Sunday, December 15, 6 p.m.
Praise Singers Concert and Sing-a-long carols. Call for reservations.
Tuesday, December 24, 5 p.m.
Christmas Eve Service Communion, Carols and Candlelight. For more information call the Aldersgate music ministry office at (334) 272.6152.
Centerpoint Fellowship at Cloverdale Baptist Church 608 E. Fairview Ave, Montgomery
Tuesday, December 24
Candlelight service, 5 pm, Christmas Eve For more information - www.centeringlives.com.
Christchurch 8800 Vaughn Road
Wednesday, December 11; 6 p.m.
Candlelight Harpischord Chamber Concert You are invited to Christchurch’s free concert of sacred and secular music. The 45- minute performance will feature instrumental and vocal pieces performed by the church’s chancel choir and soloists from the church as well as outside professionals. The free concert in the church’s sanctuary will begin at 6 p.m. It will be followed by a champagne and dessert reception in the parish hall. Reception tickets, which are $25 each, will be available by calling (334) 387.0566, ext. 203, beginning Wednesday, November 13th. Proceeds from the reception will benefit the Christchurch Pipe Organ Fund. Visit www.christchurchxp.net for more details.
Christ Community Church
1104 Rosa Parks Avenue
Community Christmas Concert Celebrate the season with a Christmas worship concert! There will be a special Christmas program and activities for children ages 3-12 in the Theater— complete with plenty of jingle belling and cookie & ornament decorating! Nursery care will be offered as an option for children under 3 years old. Everyone is invited to stay and fellowship after the worship concert with hot chocolate, coffee, and dessert! The event is free and open to everyone. For more information, call (334) 273-8110 or visit www.christccm.net.
Longest Night Service A service of hope and healing in the Sanctuary.
Tuesday, December 24
Christmas Bazaar Great opportunity to do your holiday shopping, food, home décor and one of a kind handmade gift items. Call (334) 262.4326 for details.
Christmas Eve Services Noon, family service - 3:30 p.m., Candlelight services at 5:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. Call (334) 834.8990.
Church of the Holy Comforter
Frazer Memorial UMC
2911 Woodley Road
Saturday, December 14, 10 am-3 pm
Santa’s Helper’s: Free child care! Drop off your kids at Holy Comforter while you shop. We will have activities for them, feed them lunch, and help your children make ornaments. When you get back, we’ll help you wrap gift for free! Bring your camera for a stress-free picture with Santa. Every child will go home with a dozen freshbaked cookies. Ages 2-12. Reservations required. (334) 281.1337.
Dalraida United Methodist Church 3817 Atlanta Hwy
December 15th at 11 a.m.
6000 Atlanta Highway
December 14 and 15 at 7 p.m.
“A Royal Christmas” Wesley Hall, Frazer presents this community wide production, Christmas Theatre. Fun for the entire family! Please call (334) 272.8622 or visit www.frazerumc.org.
December 21 at 6 p.m. in the East Sanctuary
“The Longest Night Service” A special service for those who are experiencing a loss, grieving or lonely.
December 24 at 5 p.m. in Sanctuary and 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall Candlelight Worship
Christmas Cantata. For more info, (334) 272.2190.
First Baptist Church
Eastern Hills Baptist Church
305 S. Perry Street
3604 Pleasant Ridge Road
Sunday, December 8, 3 pm- 6 pm
9th Annual “Hanging of the Green” Come help us ring in the Christmas season celebrating the hope found in the Christ Child! Also featuring: Youth Choirs, Drama, Celebration Ringers (hand bells), Ensemble, Narration, Interpretive Movement and more. Come early for a good seat. No admission charge. Call us at (334) 272.0604 ext. 214 or visit us online, www.ehbconline.com.
First Presbyterian Church 9299 Vaughn Road, Pike Road
December 24th at 5:00 p.m.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service with Communion. Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Please call (334) 279.1372 or visit www.firstchurchmontgomery.org.
8285 Ryan Road
Saturday, December 14th at 6:00pm
Wednesday, December 18, at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 1 at 6:15 p.m.
The Joy Singers Christmas Program in Main Sanctuary Come join us in a narration and familiar carols presented by the JOY Singers Senior Adult Choir. Please call (334) 834.6310 or visit us at www.montgomeryfbc.org.
December 13-15
The Living Christmas Tree Come joins us for the “Living Christmas Tree”. Performers will delight you atop the 40 ft. set resembling a Christmas tree on stage.
Gateway Baptist Church 3300 Bell Road
December 24th at 5 p.m.
Candlelight Service and Communion; (334) 272.9494
Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 East Washington Street
First United Methodist Church 2416 West Cloverdale Park Rd
Sunday, December 1, 4:00 p.m.
Hanging of the Greens Come with unwrapped toys or monetary gifts for families in need as we dress our Sanctuary for the Season of Advent.
Sunday, December 15, at 4:00 p.m.
Festival of Christmas Concert Our annual concert featuring our music ministry and a professional orchestra.
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December 14 at 4 p.m.
Annual Christmas Production by the Youth Dept. Join them as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Call (334) 462.3048.
Saint James UMC 9045 Vaughn Road
December 10th at 7 p.m.
Behold the Lamb of God Doors open at 6:30; Behold the Lamb of God is a collection of songs about Jesus. Since 2000, Andrew
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River Region’s Journey
Decembe
Peterson and his friends have performed Behold the Lamb around the country, telling again and again this “true myth”, as C.S. Lewis called it, this tale that’s bigger than life, but is—astonishingly—true. Tickets can be purchased at St. James United Methodist, Itickets and Evangelism Tickets. Please call (334) 277.3037 for more information.
Taylor Road Baptist Church 1685 Taylor Road
December 8, 10:30 am
“Christmas Reflections” is a free event that includes the full adult choir and special performances. It’s a mustsee production to begin the Christmas season.
December 12, 5 pm
50+ Dinner; tickets only $12.50. Special guests: Kempter Family
Tuesday, December 24, 5 pm
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service A tradition to be enjoyed with family and friends. Call 271.3363 for details.
Vaughn Forest Church 8660 Vaughn Road
Thursday, December 5, at 7 p.m.
The Sounds of Christmas Presented in Free Concert Everyone is invited to celebrate the sounds of Christmas with the Capital Sounds Concert Band and the Montgomery Recreators, in the main sanctuary of Vaughn Forest. Enjoy the season with Christmas musical selections from “The Nutcracker Suite” including Miniature Overture, Six Characteristic Dances, and Waltz of the Flowers. For more information contact (334) 279.5433.
PRATTVILLE Centerpoint Fellowship
Marriott Conference Ctr, 2500 Legends Circle
Tuesday, December 24 at 3 pm, 4:30 pm, and 6 pm Candle Light Services Please visit our website for more information www.centeringlives.com or call (334) 356.3076.
East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Road
December 7th, from 5:30 until 8:30 p.m. (December 8th will be a back up rain day)
Drive thru “Living Nativity” Experience the birth, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ at a drive-through Living Nativity. Admission is free. For more information contact the church office at (334) 365.7500 or visit our website at www.eastmemorial.org.
December 15th, 6 p.m. Christmas Musical
First Baptist Church 138 South Washington St
Sunday, December 22 at 6 p.m. Carols by Candlelight
Monday, December 24, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Service Call (334) 365.0606 for details.
Hunter Hills Church 330 Old Farm Lane, North
December 19 and 20, 7 pm
King’s Praise Ballet will be presenting Emmanuel - God With Us. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (334) 285.2700.
Join any of these River Region churches to celebrate Christ this Christmas! River Region’s Journey
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Christmas Programming Tune to Faith Radio throughout the Christmas season for music and programs that proclaim our Savior’s birth! On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, we present “A Faith Radio Christmas,” including continuous Christmas music and programs. Specials on Tuesday, December 24th, include:
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“God’s Redeeming Story,” 8:00am • “A Gaither Homecoming Christmas” Special, Noon - 2:00pm • “Brooklyn Tabernacle Christmas,” 6:00pm - 7:00pm • Handel’s Messiah, presented by the Moody Bible Institute Oratorio • A Max Lucado Christmas special,
Chorus and Orchestra, 10:00pm - 12:00midnight
• Also, join us for continuous Christmas songs on Christmas Day.
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Your Investment and Support Matters! As we conclude 2013, we ask you to prayerfully consider making a Kingdom Investment in this ministry. Faith Radio is touching many lives each day and night and your donation can make an eternal impact. Faith Radio is listener supported and your support matters! Contact us 1-800-239-8900 or visit our website www.faithradio.org.
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334.271.8900 | 800.239.8900 | mail@faithradio.org | www.faithradio.org P.O. Box 210789, Montgomery, AL 36121 Listen LIVE Now at www.faithradio.org • Montgomery WLBF 89.1FM |December Andalusia 2013WSTF River91.5FM Region’s Journey 25 Dothan WLBF 90.3FM | Eufaula 91.9FM | Alexander City 94.1FM | Sylacauga 94.1FM | Thorsby/Jemison 96.9FM
Family Teams for Christ
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by Lisa and Mike Conn
Building Family Teams in Cuba! I was five years old when our country was in the icy grips of some of the most fearful weeks of the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States. I remember vividly my lovely young first grade teacher training her tiny students to respond immediately to her sharp hand-clapping signal--we were to quickly leave our desks and kneel underneath a long row of windows in the knee/chest position with our hands behind our heads. In preparation for a possible nuclear attack, we practiced this exercise several times each day of the Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962. The decade following the 1960s was turbulent, and many believers chose to hide their faith in response to state persecution. Many parents did not wish to burden their children with the difficulties they would inherit if they were baptized Christians, and therefore did
not raise them as such. Nevertheless, by the early 1990s, after three decades of state atheism, Cuban society had become almost totally secularized. (Wikipedia) Building Family Teams for Christ in Cuba! This year the government of Cuba has recognized the right of citizens to profess and practice religious beliefs. On November 11, 2013, Mike and I and a team of four other couples from Frazer UMC (following a trail blazed by other church members in years prior) entered Cuba for the purpose of leading a marriage retreat for 25 couples from a Methodist church in the town of Guanabacoa. As the week passed, and we became more acquainted with the daily life struggles of the Cuban people, we had our eyes opened. They receive their monthly rations of rice and beans which only lasts a week or two. After that, as we were informed in a matter-of-fact
way, their daily bread is secured via the Black Market. Powdered milk is rationed only for children age 6 or 7 and under and for the elderly if they are sick. Meat is scarce, as are other necessities of life. Automobiles are dated to pre-revolution years and are preserved as best as possible using the limited resources available. We saw mostly older Soviet made cars and many Fords and Chevys from the late 50s. These precious assets have been passed along from father to son as generations have lived under the grip of communism. The homes we saw appeared to be no larger than 800 square feet and were usually home to several generations--grandparents, their married children and the grandchildren.
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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
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Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive.
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Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director
1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
C RAFTS • C HORUS
first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
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FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •
River Region’s Journey
December 2013
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Several Cubans shared with us that families of their beloved church. marriage problems are common They had been praying for marPrayer Request from Cuba from being crowded into a home (translated from a hastily scrawled note in Spanish) riages and families in distress and with your in-laws! were overjoyed that five couples had Most people work for the govcome bringing hope and healing to a Pray for my marriage and my son’s marriage--they troubled nation. ernment, and the average salary is $18 month in Cuban pesos. We met Despite decades of religious (her son and wife) are not going in the same direca doctor who as a specialist makes tion. They have been married for 40 years, but do persecution and dependency upon $28/month. If you are fortunate the government for their next meal, not have much time to pray together and talk. They Cuba is on the brink of recapturing enough to own a car or can borrow are sort of in the middle of not liking each other and untold freedom for the next generaa car, you can serve as a taxi driver, making more money than doctors tion! After witnessing the crumare both tired. Six people live in the house. And because visitors to Cuba must use a bling, neglected buildings, the food their son’s marriage is bad too and have a granddifferent currency--CUC’s, which shortages, and the lack of incentive daughter 4 years old.... they don’t want her to suffer. to work or permission to compete in buy much more than Cuban pesos! Confusing? Absolutely! a free market, I am convinced more not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, Because medicine can be difthan ever that as Americans, we must where moth and rust destroy, and where ficult to obtain, we brought into the country fervently guard our freedom and avoid govthieves break in and steal. But store up for 50,000 vitamins along with other meds. ernment dependency. As we celebrate Cuba’s yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth Bibles are also hard to come by, and we were newly-opening freedoms, let us always keep and rust do not destroy, and where thieves able to bring more than 200 into the country watch and safeguard what we hold dear, and do not break in and steal, for where your scattered among 20 pieces of luggage. indeed, what has defined America for over treasure is, there your heart will be also. Happy and joyful to be able to serve a two hundred years--our freedom. While at the church of Guanabacoa, we living God, the Christians we met in Cuba were able to identify and work closely with Lt. Col Mike Conn and wife, Lisa, founded Covenant live with very little material possessions Family Ministries when Mike retired from the Air two leadership couples who would pick up compared to Americans. Being unencumForce in 1997. CFM is an independent marriage the reins after we were gone and continue bered by wealth seemed to make their joy and family education ministry committed to partnerthe couple’s Bible studies using materials in come naturally--their dependence is upon ing with churches, organizations, and individuals in Spanish that we were leaving for the church. God. In The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Montgomery and across Alabama to build Family Teams for Christ. Married for over 30 years, Mike One of the husbands shared with Mike that taught many lessons which address the way and Lisa have three wonderful daughters, two great we were an answer to their prayers for the we should live. Matthew 6:19-21 says, Do sons-in-law, and two precious grandchildren.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
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Open House
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December 2013
River Region’s Journey
River Region Support Groups Adoption
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Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Chad & Betsy Emerson (334) 201-5241 Wednesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 116. The Orphan Care Group will focus on God’s call to help orphans through adoption, foster care, and missions work. The group will share experiences, study and Biblical themes regarding orphan care, and provide a support and interest network for individuals who want to support orphans.
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Alcoholic / Addict
Location: Caring Center of FBC, 52 Adams Avenue CrossRoads Support Group is for addicts/alcoholics and family members. Meets at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and follows a Christ-centered 12-step program. Call 264-4949.
Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. 272.2190. Alanon meets at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays. Location: Grace @ Bell Road, Corner of Bell Road and Atlanta Hwy. Alcoholics Anonymous and Alanon meetings are held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, at 6 p.m. An Open AA Speaker meeting is held on Saturday at 6 p.m. An Alanon & AA held on Sundays at 2 p.m. Location: Grace Point Community Church, 78223 Tallassee Hwy (Hwy 14), Wetumpka Celebrate Recovery- every Tuesday night- 6:15pm. All are welcome! These meetings are a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hang-ups! gracepoint.info. Location: Journey Church, group meets in Fellowship Hall at Coosada Baptist Church, Millbrook Celebrate Recovery - Christ-centered 12-step for anyone struggling with addiction or life-challenging issues. Mondays at 6pm (meal), 7pm (large group), 8pm (small group). Childcare available. Call Chuck at 850-723-9705. Location: Santuck Baptist Church, 7250 Central Plank Rd. (Hwy 9), Wetumpka. Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday evening at 6:15 in the FellowRiver Region’s Journey
December 2013
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Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy and Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville APAC- Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connection Support Group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer UMC. For information, call Hannah Taylor at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/ Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org.
Location: Cloverdale Baptist, 608 E. Fairview Celebrate Recovery, a Bible-based Christ centered approach to recovery from hurts, habits and hangups, meets Friday nights, beginning with dinner at 5:30 p.m., Praise and worship, 6:30, Open Share Small Groups, 7:30, and Solid Rock Cafe, at 8:30. Call 265-9223.
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ship Hall. This is a Chrsit centered 12 step-program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hangups. Call 567-2364. Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. RSVP- This is a 12 step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and Bible we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, the making of amends for our destructive actions, and to fill the void in our hearts in a loving relationship with God. Wednesday @ 6:30pm in Rm. 121 of the Life Center. Location: St. James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday night from 6-8 pm in the Youth Room. This is a Christ-centered 12-step group for anyone struggling with an “addiction or life-challenging issues.” For information, call Chris Henderson at 334-215-0427.
Location: Memorial Presbyterian, 2130 Bell Road A Dementia Morning Out for caregivers is offered each Tuesday from 8:45-noon. There is no charge. Each participant may bring a sack lunch (juice provided). Registration is required by calling 274-1018.
Cancer
Location: Dalraida Baptist, 3838 Wares Ferry Road. Just for Men -- Montgomery’s first and only faith based cancer support group for men is intent on providing information, Christian fellowship, and helping turn adversity into prosperity. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the conference center. Please call 272-2412 email stan.hurst@knology.net.
Alzheimer’s / Dementia
Location: ChristChurch, 8800 Vaughn Road Cancer Support Group for general cancer. Tuesday afternoons at 1 pm. For more info, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie at 467-4578.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Dementia Daycare is held each Thursday in Rm. 3101 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each participant may bring a sack lunch. There is no charge. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. For info, call the LifeCare office at 272-8622.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, providing education, awareness, and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family, friends or anyone interested in becoming a part of this compassionate journey, meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Rm 8253. Call 272-8622 or womenofhope@charter.net.
Location: Trinity Episcopal, Wetumpka (Across from Winn Dixie on HWY 231) Gamblers Anonymous-Saturdays at 7 p.m.
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group meets on the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. in Room 3103. Call 272.8622.
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Depression
Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. Leaders: Mike & Suzanne Greene (334-271-3331) Every other Tuesday, 6:30pm in Rm. 117. Goal is to create an atmosphere of acceptance and trust, where people can feel free and safe to discuss their feelings and thoughts without shame or embarrassment. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets on the 1st Thursday of each month from 7:00-8:30pm in Room 3101. This group also meets on the 3rd Saturday afternoon, 12-2 pm, Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway in Church Annex. For more info, call 334.652.1431 or email dbsamontgomery@ yahoo.com.
Divorce
Location: First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry Street Divorce Care and Divorce Care 4 Kids, Wednesdays starting August 22, 6:30 pm. Cost $15.00 (scholarships available) Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@ montgomeryfbc.org or 334-241-5125. Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth Street, Prattville Divorce Recovery meets Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m., Bldg. 101. Call 365.5977. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Divorce Recovery Support Group meets each Tuesday, at 5:30 p.m., in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272-8622. Location: Heritage Baptist Church, 1849 Perry Hill Divorce Care Support Group meetings are held Sundays at 6:15 p.m. Divorce Care for Children also at this time. Call 279.9976. Grief Share groups are held each Sunday at 5 p.m. Call 279.9976.
Gambling
Location: Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 US HWY 231 (Across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center) Wetumpka. Saturdays @ 7pm. 334-567-7534 Location: Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Sundays @ 5 pm. Location: St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy, Mondays @ 6pm. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline number: 334-541-5420
Grief
Location: Eastmont Baptist, 4505 Atlanta Hwy. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child meeting first Tuesdays at 7 pm. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 2842721. We will also collect Toys for Tots. Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth St, Prattville Grief Recovery, Thursday nights at 7 p.m., in Wesley Hall Room 104. Call 365.5977. Location: Frazer UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Grief Recovery Support Group meets Tuesdays
at 5:30 p.m., Rm 3105, in Fellowship Hall Lobby. 272.8622. Location: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church 1550 E. Washington Street Grief Ministry is a grief recovery support group that meets every Monday at 6:00 P.M. The ministry is designed to help anyone through the hurt of losing a loved one by successfully traveling the journey from mourning to joy. Alicia Glover is the coordinator. For more information contact Glover at 334-2812754.
Homosexuality
Location: Landmark Church, 1800 Halcyon Blvd. The Barnabas Group, created to address the needs of those in conflict with homosexual thoughts and feelings meets first, third and fifth Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m., in the library at the Life Center. 277.5800.
Mental Illness
Location: Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway 1. NAMI Montgomery will host General Membership meetings on the 4th Monday of the month at the Dalraida UMC annex building. Meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. This meeting is open to anyone who is interested in issues concerning mental health. 2. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group continues to meet on the 2nd Monday of the month, starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Dalraida UMC annex building. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for directions/details. 3. NAMI Montgomery will offer the 12 week NAMI FAMILY TO FAMILY education program (free) on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. at the Bell Road Lowder Regional Library. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) to register for the course.
Parenting
Location: First Baptist Prattville, 138 S. Washington Moms LIFE (living in faith everyday) Meets twice monthly from 8:30 - 11:45 am in the chapel at the Church from Aug - May. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guest, special guest speakers and a lot of fun!! Cost is $5 per meeting. For moms of all stages and ages of life. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. Location: Vaughn Forest Church, 8660 Vaughn Road Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms, and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 9:30—11:30 a.m. Childcare is provided. For information e-mail VFCMOPS@ gmail.com. Location: First Baptist Church, Montgomery 305 S. Perry Street MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) If you are a woman who is pregnant or has a child birth through kindergarten, desires to make new friends, wants to share the challenges and joys of motherhood, is looking for opportunities for personal growth through trusted resources,then MOPS is for you. Call Kristi Gay at (334) 233-8989 for more information. 29
Physical Challenges
Location: Aldersgate UMC, 6610 Vaughn Road Visually Impaired Support Group – Meets monthly on second Thursday 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. The group is called Outward Sight - Inward Vision and is for those with vision loss and their caregivers. Our mission is to assist those experiencing vision loss to maintain their independence by providing access to valuable information and spiritual support. Call Aldersgate UMC 272-6152. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Fibromyaligia Support Group meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6-8pm in room 8114. Call 272-8622. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy An MDA/ALS Support Group will meet Tuesday August 10 6:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in room 3101. Anyone who is affected by a neuromuscular disease or family members of those affected are encouraged to attend. To receive information, please call 396-4534. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy A Parkinson’s Support Group will meet the 4th Thursday at 6 p.m., in room 8114 at Frazer UMC. This group is for those who have Parkinson’s disease and the family members. 272-8622. Location: Taylor Road Baptist Church, 1785 Taylor Rd., Montgomery Gluten Intolerance Group of Montgomery meets on 2nd Thursdays from 6-7 p.m. Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings and other info at www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com.
Pregnancy Loss / Infertility
Location: First UMC, 100 E. Fourth Street, Prattville Hannah’s Prayer--for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Meeting 2nd Thursday and 3rd Sunday of each month. Call 365.5977.
Singlehood
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy Singles’ Small Groups meet each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622. Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy T.N.T. (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles meets Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, bldg. 7000. A meal ($5.00) and program are provided. For reservations, call the Singles office at 272-8622. Location: Cornerstone Christian, 301 Dalraida Rd. Unavoidably Single Again (USA) Fellowship, a support group for widows and widowers. Informal meetings for fellowship and fun are held on the third Saturday of each month starting at 10 AM. Contact Lynda at farauthor@aol.com or 354-8869.
Veterans
Location: Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Highway Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets on the 3rd Wednesday from 11am-1pm in Room 3108. Contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350. December 2013
River Region’s Journey
sia be Te Lo is ac Th die lea Pe “T an liv eig be em to to ma the an pro
by Steven Clark Goad
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.” These are the words of a favorite Yuletide song. A baby in a manger makes for quite a story. Everyone loves babies. Jesus was once a baby. But he grew up and became a man. Most people can smile at an innocent child. How many can worship a crucified Savior on a cross who stated clearly that no one could approach the Father except through him? No wonder Christmas is easier on some minds than Easter. Babies make few demands. God on a cross is another matter entirely. The claims Jesus made boggle the mind. Either Christmas is a heavenly story of the coming of our Savior, or it’s pure fiction. Either the babe the son of Mary is a liar, a lunatic, or Lord God in human flesh. There is no middle ground.
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Maker of Wombs and Things
Not only was Jesus born of a virgin, he created the womb in which his body was formed and out of which he was born. “Without him was not anything made that was made” (John 1:3, Revised Standard Version). He created the straw that was in the stable where he made his appearance. He created the tree that supplied the wood that formed the cross on which he died. Did he and Joseph chisel out the beams for the crosstie that would become his means of execution? We can only speculate about such matters. Does the manger scene prove Jesus is Lord? Maybe not. But surely history does. A stable is one thing, but an empty tomb is quite another. Christianity is unique among all other religions in that it gives us a resurrected prophet. Buddha’s grave is with us today. So is Mohammed’s. Over 500 people saw Christ in his resurrected body. He ate with his disciples before ascending to Heaven. Why would so many be martyred for a dead man? Thomas was not a hopeless doubter. River Region’s Journey
December 2013
He just wanted proof like so many of us still desire. When Thomas saw the risen Lord all he could say was, “My Lord and my God!”
Show Me!
I prefer to drive a car before I buy it. It seems only sane to investigate the serviceability of something so costly. Is it wrong for us to want to be convinced about who Christ claimed to be? After all, he said when you have seen him you have seen the Father. No wonder the baby seems more attractive than the Savior. “You are being extremely exclusive, Lord. After all, we live in a pluralistic society.” That’s true. Secular humanism has a strong hold on our culture. We continue to make God in our image instead of the other way around. 30
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The claims Jesus made boggle the mind. Either Christmas is a heavenly story of the coming of our Savior, or it’s pure fiction. Either the babe the son of Mary is a liar, a lunatic, or Lord God in human flesh. There is no middle ground.
Over 300 Messianic prophecies can be found in the Old Testament. That our Lord fulfilled them is a monumental achievement in itself. The day our Savior died he fulfilled at least 33 prophecies. Peter Stoner said, “The probability of any man who has lived fulfilling just eight prophecies has been calculated mathematically as 1 in 10 to the 17th power.” Do we really want to count that many zeroes? I’m not a mathematician, but I’m able to grasp the difference between coincidences and the fulfilled predictions of God’s prophets.
The First Noel
Joseph and Mary. Chosen. Blessed. A virgin. A pregnancy. An angel puts Joseph’s mind at ease, “Because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20, New International Version). Gabriel announces John’s birth to Zechariah. Six months later he announces Jesus’ coming. “Greetings, you who are highly favored. The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28). Awesome wonder. “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:30-33). The angel tells Mary this is true because nothing is impossible with God. So John is born. Then cousin Jesus. Under duress. Taxed and in transit, Joseph and Mary find her in labor at an awkward time. No room in the inn. A borrowed stable. The Creator of the animals whose bleats and brays could be heard in the stable is now with them
as a baby. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). Truly a heavenly gift.
A Heavenly Christmas
Jesus lived a perfect life. He grew in stature and in favor with God and man. He developed a trade in his family’s carpenter shop. People were drawn to him. His ministry years were short and dynamic. He invited a few men to join him for three years in a hands-on training school. Before them he performed signs, miracles, and wonders. He spoke as no man had spoken before. He healed the blind, the lame, and the deaf. He walked on water. He calmed the storm. He raised Lazarus. He wept. He was no longer a baby. The Messiah of God arrived among the very people who looked for his coming. Most missed it. The Pharisees resented him for the most part. The political leaders were fearful of his influence. No wonder they called him the Messiah, since the world was in such a horrible mess. He was tempted by Satan in every way. In the Garden of Gathsemane, he wept as if he were bleeding. “Let this cup pass from me,” he cried. Angels came and ministered to him.
From Childhood to Manhood
The baby has grown into manhood. The Christmas saga unfolds. Betrayed with a kiss. The guards and holy men seek him out. “I am the one you are 31
looking for.” They fall back. His awesome presence is powerful. Willingly and voluntarily he gives himself to them. He could have called 10,000 angels to come and rescue him. Yet he went eyes-wide-open to the cross. No wonder the baby story is more enjoyable than the man story. The baby says nothing. The man says, “Take up your cross and follow after me.” He declares, “If you love me you will do what I say.” The cross is ugly. It reveals humanity at its worst. It displays God at his best. “Father, forgive them.” “I thirst.” “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” “Today you will be with me in paradise.” “Mother, behold your son. Son, behold your mother.” “It is finished.” Even Mel Gibson in The Passion of the Christ could not fully portray the agony of that six hours one Friday. Hallelujah, what a Savior!
Awesome God
Can I prove Christmas? Maybe not. But I know Jesus is Lord. And I know God loves me. Blaise Pascal wagered that it’s far wiser to believe in Jesus, because if it turns out there is a God we have everything to gain, but if there’s isn’t a God then we have nothing to lose. Christmas is a matter of blessed assurance. May I tell you why I believe in Christmas? Because of my grandson’s giggle. A lone desert sunset. Green pastures. A kiss. Still waters. Family. A galaxy millions of light years wide. The church. Penicillin. Pizza. The moon. Dad. The manger. The cross. Don’t ask me why I believe in a heavenly Christmas. Let me tell you. I would be a fool not to believe. Steven Clark Goad is a freelance writer in Blythe, California. December 2013
River Region’s Journey
Counselor’s Corner
by Pamela Boswell, Eastwood Counseling Center
What’s In a Name? Who named you? For whom are you named? What does your name mean? Do you have a nickname? What do those who know you best call you? In getting to know people, one of the first things we do is learn their name and tell them ours. That is exactly what God does in the Bible. He reveals His names as well as His character so that we might know Him better. One of the greatest needs any human has is true knowledge of God. Yet God is unknowable unless He reveals Himself to us. Throughout the scriptures we are instructed to seek God and gain knowledge of Him. This is for our
River Region’s Journey
December 2013
good. In 2 Peter 1 we are told that grace and peace will be multiplied through the knowledge of God, and that all things that pertain to life and godliness have been given to us through the knowledge of Him. In Colossians 1 we are instructed that in order to walk in a manner worthy of our Lord, bearing fruit, we are to increase our knowledge of Him. As we become acquainted with God we learn some of His names which express His multifaceted personality. There are hundreds of names that refer to God in the Bible, here are just a few. In the beginning God created the earth. The first name used for God is
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the Hebrew word Elohim. Elohim is the name of God as the creator. This establishes an important fact, He is the Creator and everything else is the created. He is often described as the potter and we are the clay. He makes us into the vessels He wants for the purpose He has planned. This may seem simple but it is very basic in beginning to truly understand God ---who is the blessed controller of everything, including the circumstances of our lives.
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Later as the story of the Bible unfolds, Moses encounters God in the burning bush. Moses asked God what name to use to tell the Jewish people who sent him. God said “I Am” which is Yahweh in Hebrew, or Jehovah in Latin. In essence, when Moses said “Who are you?” in Exodus 3:15, God said “I Am Who I Am.” The implications and meaning of this are great. He is self-existent and unchanging. He always was, He is, He always will be and He has no dependence. He needs nothing, not even us. Yet we depend on Him for everything. In Genesis 22:8, Abraham traveled to Moriah to make a burnt offering instructed by God. Along the way, Abraham told Isaac that God would provide the sacrificial lamb needed. God did provide for Abraham and He provided the sacrificial lamb we need for reconciliation with Him. JehovahJireh, the Lord will provide, is the name to call on in our times of need as well.
When life seems out of control and worry tends to creep into our minds, the name El-Shaddai can remind us that our God is almighty. Nothing is too hard for Him or beyond His power. In Psalm 47 He is described as the Most High or El Elyon. He rules over everything, even the things that may make you sad or angry or fearful. God is a great Ruler. Not only is He powerful, He is wise and good. Nothing is beyond God’s sight. He is El Roi, The God who sees. In Genesis 16 when Hagar ran away into the wilderness and fell down crying in despair, God saw her and took care of her. Hagar learned much about God through this experience. Psalm 34 tells us that the eyes of the Lord are everywhere seeing evil and good. And though He is all powerful and full of majesty and wisdom, He is also our Jehovah-Rohi, the Lord my shepherd. Night and day He tenderly loves and cares for us. Each one of His sheep is special to Him. If one wanders away,
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He leaves the 99 to bring it back into the fold (Luke 15). He wants to comfort and guide us. Who are the people you trust? How well do you know them? When you are in trouble who do you call? God intends for you to call on Him no matter your need or situation. The better you know God, the easier it is for you to trust Him and call on His name. By what name are you calling on Him and on what aspects of His character should you be calling today? True peace and lasting joy comes from knowing God. What name are you calling?
**If you would like to get in touch with this or any counselor at Eastwood Counseling Center, please call 334-386-2384.
Pamela Boswell is a native of Montgomery. She pursued a Master’s degree in Counseling from Auburn University Montgomery, which she received in 2001. She has 8 years experience in a nonprofit organization obtaining extensive experience with troubled children and their families. She has recently received certification from the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors having been supervised by Lou Priolo.
December 2013
River Region’s Journey
Grace to You
too be rem
by John MacArthur
Jes int rif an
“I Celebrate Christmas, But Don’t Know Why Jesus Came?” Who was that child in the manger? God. We see that clearly now. But why would God become a man, be born in such a lowly manner, and let men treat Him the way they did? Why would Jesus, while existing “before all things” (Colossians 1:17) and holding “first place in everything” (v. 18), agree to come to earth as a baby, suffer the abuse He suffered, and die such a painful death? The apostle Paul is clear: “It was the Father’s good pleasure ... through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross” (vv. 19-20).
He did it to make peace between God and man. God is justifiably angry at humanity’s sin. All of us have sinned--and done so repeatedly. Yet He loves sinners enough that He gave His own Son to live on earth, die on a cross, and bear sin in His own body, suffering the full weight of God’s wrath--wrath deserved by sinners. He paid the penalty to restore peace between God and sinners. It could not have been done any other way. So Christmas is primarily a celebration of God’s love toward mankind. The babe in a manger is more than just
a tender child. He is the express image of God. He took on a body of human flesh so He could bear in that body the sins of the world. He made possible the gift of God--eternal life (Romans 6:23). That is the sum of the Christmas message. Don’t get lost in the wide scope of it all. The incarnation of God in Jesus Christ is nothing if it is not personal. This is the message of Christmas for you: He who entered this world and
fai lie wi wi Hi Hi Hi
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Wi gen Co chi his
E C FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT® FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
LET YOUR BODY RaisE YOUR sPiRiT EasT YMCa aND BELL ROaD YMCa
JOiN YOUR FRiENDs
At the Y, there is a group of neighbors getting together this week to enjoy a cup of coffee and a stretch or two! Yes, they are exercising together! The Y has saved a spot just for you in their water and group exercise classes! Sign up today! MakE THE Y’s CHOiCE JOiN ONE LOCaTiON aND ENJOY aLL 13. FOR MORE iNFORMaTiON CONTaCT East YMCa p 334 272 3390 Bell Road YMCa p 334 271 4343 ymcamontgomery.org
River Region’s Journey
December 2013
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took on human flesh died on a cross to bear sin, to pay the penalty for iniquity, to remove guilt. That pardon from guilt He offers to you. Jesus came to forgive sinners and bring them into His presence by virtue of His own sacrificial death. Do you desire His forgiveness and long to know God’s loving embrace? You must respond. Specifically, God calls you to respond in faith. Turn from your sin to follow Him. Believe He has forgiven your sin and trust Him with your life (John 3:18, 36). Follow Him without reservation. Jesus Christ must take His rightful place as Lord--first place in everything (Colossians 1:18). Submit to Him and He who created everything will make you a new creature, remolded in His image, with new desires and a new heart (2 Corinthians 5:17). Should you respond to God’s offer of forgiveness in Christ, this Christmas will truly be a time to celebrate, for you will have the greatest gift you can ever receive, “being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24).
f Widely known for his thorough, candid approach to teaching God’s Word, John MacArthur is a fifthgeneration pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and has served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California since 1969. John and his wife, Patricia, have four grown children and fifteen grandchildren. John’s pulpit ministry has been extended around the globe through his media ministry, Grace to You.
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EVANGEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Proverbs 22:6
C hallenging a CademiC a tmosphere in a C hristian e nvironment Accredited AISA Blue Ribbon School Evangel Christian Academy is a ministry of Evangel Church in Montgomery, Alabama.
334-272-3882 ecalions.org Evangel Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, gender and national or ethnic origin.
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Community Calendar Christian Community Calendar Christian Ongoing Happenings
AGLOW International meets every third Thursday, 9:30 at the Montgomery House of Prayer. All women welcome to join together for praise, prayer and an anointed message. Contact mboudousquie@yahoo.com. Bridge of Life Assembly of God, 9000 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, holds Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. each week. Sunday school classes meet at 9:30 a.m. We offer classes for all age groups and childcare is provided. Our goal is to build bridges...not walls. We invite you to come join us if you need to learn how to build those bridges. For directions or information call 334-396-0208. Email jon@bridgeoflife.tv or visit www.bridgeoflife.tv. Capital City Church of the Nazarene, 4450 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Free Tutoring throughout the school year. All subjects. Grades K-12. Every Wednesday night from 5:00 to 6:00. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information: 272-8176. Central Community Christian Church, 981 South Perry Street, Montgomery, holds new members training classes on Sundays at 9 a.m. Sunday School (9:30), morning worship (11:00), Tuesday night Bible study (6:30). Every fourth Sunday of the month is our youth Sunday. For more information please call (334) 269-0457 or by email at centralccchurch1@gmail.com. We are a church where you can be you, you can be loved and where you can grow! Christchurch, 8800 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, offers a Women’s Enrichment Bible Study led by Jeanne Dean on Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., in Canterbury Hall. All women are welcome. Childcare for ages birth-4 years is provided. Call 387-0566 x 201 for more info. Christchurch offers a men’s Bible study led by Fr. John-Michael van Dyke, on Thursday mornings on the 11th floor of Goode Medical Bldg, Jackson Hospital. Breakfast is served beginning at 6:45 a.m. and teaching begins at 7:15 a.m. Call 387-0566 x 201. Chisholm Baptist Church, 2938 Lower Wetumpka Road, Montgomery, holds Sunday morning Bible study (9:30), Morning worship (10:45), Tuesday prayer breakfast (8:30) Wednesday evening prayer service (6 pm) and Senior Body and Soul Group (every 1st Tuesday at 1 pm). Email jbass9784@charter.net or call 262-6437. First Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, hosts Family Night every Wednesday beginning at 5:20 p.m. with supper, followed by a study on prayer. Everyone is welcome. For more information call (279-1372). First Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, hosts a Men’s Prayer Breakfast every Friday morning, 6 a.m. The Youth of First United Methodist Church, Montgomery every Wednesday night at 7:00 River Region’s Journey
December 2013
p.m. for Wednesday Night Live, a time of praise and worship in “the attic”. Also, every Sunday night at 6:00 p.m. is MYF which includes a snack supper $3.00 followed by activities, small groups and lots of fun! Visit www.fumcmontgomery.org or call 334-834-8990. First United Methodist Church will host Terrific Tuesdays. Please come and join us for fellowship, a program and lunch. Terrific Tuesdays will meet each Tuesday in room 204 of Wesley Hall. Fellowship time will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a program at 10:30 a.m. and lunch at 11:30 a.m. The cost of lunch is $2.00. Every fourth Tuesday the time will extend until 3:00 p.m. for bridge, games, and other activities in room 203 in Wesley Hall. For additional information please contact NeeNee Webb at 834-8990. Good News @ Noon is an interdenominational Bible study, held at the First Baptist Community Ministries Building on Adams Street, Thursdays, at noon. Small cost for hot lunch. Call 272.1133. Hall Memorial CME Church, 541 Seibles Road, Montgomery, offers Bible Study Tuesdays at 5:30 P.M. and Wednesdays at 6: 30 P.M. For directions or information call 334-288-0577. Email HallMemorialCME1@aol.com or visit www.HallMemorialCME.blogspot.com. Hall Memorial CME Church says: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Tutors, prayer-warriors, and office/clerical volunteers needed for the Montgomery City Jail Ministry & G.E.D program. Opportunities are ongoing. No experience or certification necessary. Contact Pastor Anderson T. Graves II, at hallmemorialcme1@aol.com. Call 334-288-0577. The City Jail ministry is an in-reach ministry of Hall Memorial CME Church, 541 Seibles Road, Montgomery. www.hallmemorialcme.blogspot.com. iConnect.coffeehouse provides a place for women to experience meaningful fellowship with women seeking genuine connection. Meetings will be held in the Atrium at Frazer UMC 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. For more info, call Frazer’s Women’s Ministry at 495-6391. Macedonia Miracle Kingdom & Worship Center (MMKWC), 3070 Selma Highway, Montgomery, services are Sunday School and New Members Class, 9:00 a.m., Morning Worship, 10:45 a.m.; Tuesday Night Bible Class, 7:00 p.m. and Friday Night Prayer, 6:00 p.m. (BOTH at The Pattern-Mt Meigs Road) Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, invites all to Wonderful Wednesdays starting with a $3-5 meal at 5:30 pm (RSVP 277-4213 by Monday noon), worship with eucharist 6:15-7:00 pm, and adult choir rehearsal and Catechism class for 7th-9th graders at 7:00 pm. Please call for Wednesday schedule due to seasonal breaks. For information, call 277-4213. Mt. Gillard Missionary Baptist Church, 3323 36
Day Street, holds Wednesday Bible Study in the church Fellowship Hall and lasts for one hour. Please come and participate in roaming the Bible learning God’s word through teaching. The Rev. Henry M. Carnegie, Jr. is the teacher and pastor. Mid-day Bible Study begins each Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Evening Bible Study begins each Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Call 233-8750. New Freedom Worship Center, 6004 –A East Shirley Lane, Apostle T. Briggs~ Pastor; Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday Night Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Open Door Christian Faith Church, 1601 Dewey St. Montgomery, offers Women’s Prayer Mondays at 5:00, Men’s prayer Wednesday at 5:00, followed by bible study at 6:00. Couples ministry held every 1st Wednesday of the month at 7:00. Pastor William Cromblin, and the Open Door Church family invites you to “come experience the move of God. For more info, call the church at 334-269-6498. Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Rd, sponsors a Bluegrass Jam in the Church Fellowship Hall on the third Saturday of each month from 9AM 12AM. All Bluegrass Artist plus Fans are invited to attend. Attendance is FREE. For information call Kathy@ 272-3174. Perry Hill UMC, 910 Perry Hill Rd, hosts a Wednesday Night Supper and Revive! program each week from 5:30pm til 7:00pm. Reservations are required by noon on the Monday prior to the supper. Cost is $4 per person or $12 per family. Call 334-272-3174 for more information. River City Church, 301 Dexter Avenue, offers a Friday Christian Night Club (free of alcohol and smoking) with Ballroom Dancing every Friday at 6:30 P.M. Cost is $10 for a one hour lesson, devotional, and 3 hours of DJ music. People of all denominations are welcome. 7:30-10:30 open dance floor. The River of Life Church, located at 116 County Road 40 E (in the Pine Level Community Center) Prattville. Pastor Nick Edwards invites you to a “Place of New Beginnings”, where families come and grow together. Church Service Schedule: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship; 5:00 p.m. Evening Worship. Wednesday 6:00 p.m. Adult Bible Study, Teens (Genesis Project), Jr. High (Limitless), Royal Rangers, MPact Girls, Rainbow’s/ Noah’s Zoo Club. Thursday 9:00 a.m.Women of Grace Bible Study. Nursery provided. We invite you to”come experience God in a personal way, feel loved by all and know that you belong”. Office 334-657-0392 or visit www.theriveroflifechurch.net. River Region Contra Dancing-Everyone school-age through adult is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples, and families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on the
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Calendar 1st & 3rd Friday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn Road. For more information check out the website: www.riverregioncontradance.com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, offers S.N.A.G. (Sunday Nights About God!) This program starts at 5:00p.m. and ends at 6:30p.m. Childcare is provided for small groups until 7:00p.m. Don’t forget this program is available for all children! Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, offers Wild & Wacky Wednesdays! Wednesday night supper starts at 5:15p.m. We will start checking children in at 6:00p.m. This program ends at 7:30p.m. and childcare is provided until 8:00p.m. for small group participants. Call 277.3037 for more info. Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, 706 E. Patton Avenue, “Clothes Closet” is open to the public each Thursday morning from 10 a.m. – Noon. The Men of Saint Paul host a free Men’s Prayer Breakfast the Third Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. in the Church Fellowship Hall. The Men’s Prayer Breakfast is open to all men of all ages. Come and share your concerns and needs of our Men of today. For more information, please contact (334) 354-1897. Bible Study is held each Wednesday, 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Pastor Farrell J. Duncombe is the teacher and Senior Pastor of the church. Come and join us for Sunday School each Sunday at 9 a.m. and Morning Worship at 10 a.m. Need transportation, call (334) 264-7618. For info call 286.8577 or www.saintpaulamemontgomery.com. S-STOP, a commUNITY Bible study for Singles. Souls Strengthened Together for One Purpose. Psalm 46:10 “BE STILL and know that I am God.” Meets at Prattville Christian Academy on Sunday nights at 6 p.m. For info email sstop04@gmail.com. Vision Full Gospel Ministries, 163 Rifle Range Road, Montgomery, holds Bible Study Tues. Night 7:00 p.m., Pray & Praise 2nd & 4th Thurs. Night 7:00 p.m., Sunday School 9:30 am, Sunday Worship Service 10:45 a.m., Internet radio-homecominggospel.com Sunday 3:00p.m. Central & 4:00 p.m. Eastern. and Satellite Radio -wlsg 1340am Sunday 3:00p.m. Women at The Well Ministry invites you to attend its women’s fellowship at 1 pm every 1st and 3rd Saturday. We are women who desire and have a heart to see broken, crushed, hurting women be transformed through the one man who can fulfill their every need... JESUS...THE POTTER. All women of all denominations or race are welcome. This ministry is available to teenagers as well. Come join us as we lift, encourage and build each other up through the Word of God and the words of our testimonies. For more information contact Evangelist Dr. Linda McCall, 334-220-1924. 37
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Community Calendar Christian Community Calendar Christian Young Meadows Presbyterian Church, 5780 Vaughn Road, invites you to attend its Sunday Respite Care Program on 1st Sundays from 4-6 pm. Children with physical and cognitive disabilities (and their siblings) ages 6-18 are invited for a time of activities and a light dinner so parents can have a night out. Call Susan Clements at 301-0355 for information and to make a reservation, or email rooftopfriends@gmail.com.
This Month Tuesday, December 3
“The Heart Behind the Music” Christian Songwriter’s Conference will be held at Davis Theatre, at 7 pm. See Susan Ashton, Billy Dean, Richie McDonald and Lenny LeBlanc. Visit www.susanashton music.com/tour/ for ticket info.
Friday, December 6
Returning to the Southeast for a third tour of the heart-warming musical, The Forgotten Carols, Los Angeles and New York cast members of the Theos Theatricals touring company will present the contemporary story of God’s love for a broken people, at the Davis Theater
in Montgomery at 7:00 p.m. Adult tickets are $15; students and seniors, $10. Tickets can be purchased on the website, www.theostheatricals.com. For more info: Beth@creativepartnerspr.com or (601) 454-6503.
Friday, December 13
Christ Community Church (8285 Ryan Road) is hosting a Parents’ Night Out from 5:009:00pm. The student ministry and leaders will be providing evening childcare in the church theater for children ages 3-12 (younger children must be potty-trained). The cost is $15 per child if pre-registered by Thursday, December 12th ($20 per child without preregistration), and dinner will be provided. This is great opportunity for kids to have fun while parents have a night off to enjoy the holiday season, and all proceeds benefit the students’ 2014 Youth Mission Trip! To register your child, please call Lauren Beach at (334) 2738110 or send her an email at lb@christccm. net (include your name, ages of children, and a contact phone number).
Saturday, December 14
Santa’s Helpers Childcare at Holy Comforter, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free child care!
Drop off your kids at The Church of the Holy Comforter while you shop. We will have activities for them, feed them lunch, and help your children make ornaments. When you get back, we’ll help you wrap gifts for free! Bring your camera for a stress-free picture with Santa. Every child will go home with a dozen freshbaked cookies. Ages 2 – 12. 2911 Woodley Road, under the water tower off the Southern Bypass. For more information, call 281-1337.
Saturday, January 25
Transition Conference 2014 for High School Seniors! Christ Community Church, 8285 Ryan Road, Montgomery. Details and registration at www.thetransmission.org/transconf.
Valentine’s Day, February 14
Vince Gill and Amy Grant at 7:30 p.m. TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Box Office: 334-4815100 or visit www.mpaconline.org.
Please send your calendar events to deanne@readjourneymagazine.com by the 18th of the month for FREE print.
Building the lives of young people on Jesus Christ, the chief cornerstone.
You are invited to visit us and learn how a Classical Christian education can benefit your child.
COMMUNITY INFORMATION MEETING AND OPEN HOUSE January 23, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. At Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, our goal is to equip students with the knowledge, skill and vision necessary to be effective leaders and servants for our Lord Jesus Christ.
MORNINGVIEW BAPTIST CHURCH 125 Calhoun Road • (334) 356.7788 • www.ccamontgomery.org River Region’s Journey
December 2013
38
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Get the Point?
by Elaine Britt
The Point of the Passage:
Pertinent Prayer
…The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16 Ponder this scenario. Your plans include travel to, and an extended stay in, a foreign country where you are to interact with the people – and they don’t speak your language. No internet or interpreter will be available and you will not be able to communicate with them. Materials are readily accessible to learn the language before you make the trip. Will you exert the necessary effort prior to your departure in order to facilitate your journey? Spiritually speaking, we do indeed exist in a ‘foreign country’ as 1 Peter 2: 10-11 reveals, Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God…Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world… How, then, are we to ‘learn the language?’ Just as the bits and pieces slowly meld together to form sentences as we study a foreign language, so does God’s ‘textbook,’ the Bible, facilitate our ability to ‘speak’ in God’s chosen language - prayer. As with any language study, practice yields improvement. We begin with basics, progress to phrases, and rejoice when something ‘clicks,’ finding a comfort level within this new concept. Additional exposure discloses a depth and richness obtainable only through pursuing nuances and exploring details. Continuing our scenario, assume that you assigned a few hours to this ‘language thing’ before traveling. Now, two weeks into your extended stay, the consequences of your minimal time investment emerge as clear communication is stilted, your goals being accomplished at an alarmingly slow rate. Unlike the above scenario, God’s ‘language’ of prayer is innate and can be experienced with no prior ‘training,’ and at any time as Psalm 121: 3-4 affirms, … he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he…will neither slumber nor sleep. An infallible method of approaching God in
prayer involves merely acknowledging his attributes such as,” God you are Holy, Lord, you are …Worthy, Omnipotent, our Creator, King of Kings, Lord of Lords,” etc. Simply opening the line of communication is powerful because God is ever aware. Another difference in ‘acquiring’ this language of prayer and learning a foreign language is that our interaction with God is not a one-sided endeavor - we have a helper. In the midst of Jesus’ disciples’ anguish at his suggestion that he was ‘going away,’ he explained to them, “It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you… when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16: 7, 13) This ‘Counselor,’ the Holy Spirit, also never sleeps nor slumbers. Further, Romans 8:26 informs us that … In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express... While prayer is open to all, God can answer our prayers more succinctly as our grasp of his ‘language’ deepens - a result and reward of absorbing Biblical truths. Checking my Bible concordance, there are close to 200 verses referencing the words ‘pray, prayer, and prayers’ which also lend invaluable understanding to the nature of prayer. Max Lucado offers, “Before he went to the masses, he went to the mountain. Before the disciples encountered the crowds, they encountered the Christ. And before they faced the people, they were reminded of the sacred. The quietness will slow my pulse, the silence will open my ears, and something sacred will happen. The soft slap of sandaled feet will break the stillness, a pierced hand will extend a quiet invitation, and I will follow. I wish I could say it happens every night; it doesn’t. Some nights he asks and I don’t listen. Other nights he asks and I just don’t go. But some nights I hear his poetic 39
whisper, ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened…’ and I follow. I leave behind the budgets, bills, and deadlines and walk the narrow trail up the mountain with him.” When we pray, God does indeed take our hand, spiritually, leading us along a narrow trail-for-two. Ready for a challenge? First, notice evidence of the coming Christmas season. Next, designate an hour, a day, a week – your choice. During this time, recognize specific evidence - lights, advertisements, merchandise in stores, etc. Finally, at each reminder, pause, (mentally, of course – no traffic accidents please!), clear your mind and simply praise God. Praise him for his Presence. Praise him for the beautiful nature that surrounds you. Praise him for his Creativity displayed in the palette of human faces. The list is endless. You have just spoken God’s ‘language.’ It is that simple! Just as, in your travels, quality of communication improves with study, so our understanding of ‘God language’ improves as we are exposed to his word, the Bible, and as we engage in prayer. The difference is that the Bible ‘language’ includes the very words of life. As we approach the Christmas season, let us pause, take God’s hand, and allow him to lead us on that narrow trail, enjoying fellowship with him through the language of prayer.
Elaine Britt and her husband, Tim, reside in Montgomery, with son Bryan at UAH in Huntsville and son Kevin at the University of Montevallo. She counts her family as a great blessing. By profession, Elaine is a 33 year veteran Interior Decorator and owner of Carriage House Interiors, now freelancing from home. By God’s calling and to her great joy, she is a writer, whose published works include stories in A Cup of Comfort Devotionals; Lord, I Was Happy Shallow; and Heavenly Patchwork; one book, Messages, as well as various e-zine and magazine articles. December 2013
River Region’s Journey
Movie Reviews Reviews provided by MovieGuide: A Family Guide to Movies and Entertainment Ratings are based on production quality and moral acceptability. See details below. ***Reviews do not necessarily reflect views of the publishers of River Region’s Journey.
The Christmas Candle
The Book Thief Production Quality: **** Moral Acceptability: +2 (Good) Starring: Geoffrey Rush, Emily Watson, Sophie Nélisse, Ben Schnetzer, Nico Liersch, Barbara Auer, Levin Liam, Rainer Bock, Carina N. Wiese, Roger Allam Genre: Drama Audience: Family, Drama Rating: PG-13 Content: Strong Christian, moral worldview includes elements of love and self-sacrifice, funeral scene with a priest praying, one quick prayer from girl’s adoptive father, and narrated by the voice of Death, who gives a vaguely biblical reference at the end, plus elements of love and; no foul language; light violence includes adoptive mother twists a little girls’ ear, National Socialist thugs bash windows of Jewish shop owners, one man kicked by a soldier, air raid bombs explode, we see bodies recovered afterward; no sex; partial upper male nudity when boy takes a bath; no alcohol; no smoking or drug use; and, the vicissitudes of war, including falsified documents and scrounging for possessions. THE BOOK THIEF, set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany, follows 11-year-old Liesel’s search for home, family and belonging amid incredibly difficult circumstances. After the tragic death of her younger brother, Liesel rescued by two foster parents. The man, Hans, teaches Liesel to read. Also, Liesel becomes friends with a sickly Jewish hiding from the Gestapo and the wealthy burgomeister’s wife, who lets Liesel use her dead son’s exquisite library. Narrating the story is the voice of the Angel of Death. The Angel says he’s usually not concerned with the lives of humans, but the story of 11-year-old Liesel attracts him. “I am haunted by humans,” the Angel of Death confesses. Based on the New York Times best seller, THE BOOK THIEF is wonderfully directed by Brian Percival of DOWNTON ABBEY. The performances are delightful and heartwarming, despite the difficult circumstances. While not overtly evangelical, THE BOOK THIEF tells a positive Christian, moral tale of adoption and self-sacrifice. There is almost no violence and no foul language or sex. THE BOOK THIEF does deal with some serious subjects, however.
Production Quality: *** Moral Acceptability: +4 (Exemplary) Starring: Hans Matheson, Samantha Barks, Lesley Manville, Sylvester McCoy, James Cosmo, Susan Boyle, Barbara Flynn, John Hannah, Jude Wright Genre: Drama Audience: Family, Drama Rating: PG Content: Very strong Christian, Biblical worldview upholding and exhibiting prayer, faith, and redemption, several scenes take place in a church during a service, multiple references to God’s providence and sovereignty, and God’s power through healing and miracles is also seen; no foul language; a few intense scenes, one involves a fire in the church that causes a man to have a heart attack, and the other takes place in a blizzard where a carriage crashed; an unmarried woman is pregnant and a light kiss at the end; no nudity; no alcohol; no smoking or drugs; and, nothing else objectionable. THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE is a faith inspiring movie that tells a heartwarming story of Reverend David Richmond, who’s brought in to be the minister of the small English town Gladbury in the late 1890s. The town is known for their Christmas candle, a candle that’s supposedly blessed with healing powers by an angel every 25 years. As David goes about ministering to the town, polarizing views of God’s healing power causes friction. In the process, both David’s faith and the faith of Gladbury are tested. THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE is entertaining and incredibly moving. Except for a rough and confusing beginning, every other part of the movie is praiseworthy. The acting is believable, the sets are immersive, and the story is powerful. Best of all, the movie upholds faith, prayer, God’s providence, and redemption. The faith of both the Reverend and the townspeople are tested as they learn more about God’s real healing power. The movie is void of objectionable content and only contains one intense scene involving a fire. THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE is an engaging, faith-building movie the whole family can enjoy.
The previous reviews are a selected sample of informative reviews from MOVIEGUIDE: A FAMILY GUIDE TO MOVIES AND ENTERTAINMENT, a syndicated feature of Good News Communications, Inc. To subscribe to MOVIEGUIDE which includes a complete set of at least 10 reviews of the latest movies as well as many informative articles, please visit our web site at www.movieguide.org or write or call:”MOVIEGUIDE,” P.O. Box 190010, Atlanta, GA 31119 (800) 899-6684. What the ratings mean: Production Quality: (1 to 4 stars) Moral Acceptability: -4 (Abhorrent), -3 (Excessive), -2 (Extreme Caution), -1 (Caution), +1 (Wholesome), +2 (Good), +3 (Moral), +4 (Exemplary) River Region’s Journey
December 2013
40
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The
Living Christmas Tree December 13 • 7 pm December 14 • 4 & 7 pm December 15 • 4 & 7 pm
For tickets: 334.241.5156 or
www.montgomeryfbc.org
No offering will be taken during the presentation. $5 per ticket suggested.
Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship You are invited to this very special experience for the entire family.
3:30 & 5:00 pm | Main Sanctuary
Celebrating the Joy of Christmas First Baptist Church Montgomery
305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.org