April 2011 Metro Christian Living

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contents APRIL 2011

metro ®

columns 11 The Way I See It What kind of wake are you leaving?

16 Let’s Talk it Over Hold my calls

20 HomeWorks Hospitality on a budget

22 Mars & Venus Alive again

30 Legal Advice How many of these three do you have covered?

33 Modern Motherhood Finding focus

feature

36 Outside In

24

37 Single Still, Single Again

The kids are watching

Pastor Jerry and Helen Young Providence always prevails

28

A pet parable

41 Chasing Solomon There’s a zoo in Collins, Mississippi

Spring Cleaning for the Soul

departments

37

Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A. Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@metrochristianliving.com Associate Editor: Christi B. Steckel christi@metrochristianliving.com Administrative Assistant: Carol Rodgers carol@metrochristianliving.com Art Direction/Graphic Design Sandra K. Goff Graphic Production Assistant Kate Thomas Sales Marilyn Tinnin, Christi B. Steckel, Heather May, Jen Sampson Contributing Writers: Chris Bates, Lydia Bolen, Brint Callaway, Susan Deaver, Cathy Haynie, William B. Howell, Heather May, Robin O’Bryant, Susan E. Richardson, Betsy Smith, Scot Thigpen, Danny Williams, Marcus Williams, Martin E. Willoughby Jr., Neddie Winters Cover Photography Stegall Imagery Distribution Assistants: Laura Blackledge, Kim Roberts, Carol Rodgers, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland, Priscilla Sullivan, Bob Whatley

15 Our Daily Bread How do you keep the faith?

17 Welcome Home 10 Spring gardening tips

18 Fresh Finds On the hunt

34

21 Money Talks Spring financial fever

23 Healthy Living

23

Exercise with purpose

34 Food For Thought Easter Sunday lunch

17

39 Let’s Get Real Take heart

40 In Black and White Mission Mississippi mayor’s luncheon

42 Event Collage Christian leaders of the future

44 Rave Reviews Books, movies and music

➺ 6 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Volume 5, Number 11

What’s Coming Next Month?

Leading Ladies Mothers of all stages and ages

in every issue 8 13 45 46 46

Editor’s Letter A 1000 Words Event Calendar Quips & Quotes Ad Directory

Metro Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal, and life changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Metro Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Metro Christian Living staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright 2008 by Metro Christian Living, Inc. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Metro Christian Living is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $29 for one year.

Single issues available for $3 an issue.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Metro Christian Living, 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157, phone number 601-790-9076.

M I P A Mississippi Independent Publishers' Alliance

Picture Yourself in Clinton for 2nd Saturdays at the Olde Towne Market Join us for our open-air Olde Towne Market the 2nd Saturday of each month. You’ll find fresh produce, hand-crafted gifts, goodies, and fun for the whole family!

m a 9 1pm

April 9

“Spring into Green,” featuring the 4th annual Caterpillar Parade and emphasizing recycled art

May 14

“Make Mine Vintage,” focusing on antiques and collectables, including items crafted from vintage finds

June 11

“Fresh, Fit and Fabulous,” promoting healthy lifestyles and enjoying fresh grown produce

July 9

“Tomato Tasting,” feat. High Heeled Hippie Peyton Johnson

Aug. 13

“Dog Dayz,” emphasizing our animal friends

Sept. 10

“The World on Main Street,” exploring international cultures

Oct. 8

“Fall for Clinton,” welcoming the Fall season

Nov. 12

“4th Annual Holiday Market,” preparing for the holidays

For more information, visit

www.clintonms.org

Things are Always Clicking in Clinton!

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at AJ’s!

Sunday Brunch 10:30 am Two private rooms with large screen tvs Outside dining available Visit our website for monthly $40 drawing at www.ajsgrille.com 361 Township Avenue, Ridgeland, MS (601) 856.2844 metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 7

➺editor’s letter God Always Gets His Message Across did not intend to become a couch potato. Like the proverbial frog in the slowly boiling pot of water, it happened bit by bit. My first step toward a sedentary lifestyle was quite innocent. It began as just a little together time with my husband Charles. We could watch news 24/7 and with one click of the remote switch to the military channel and discover more than most people ever want to know about World War I and World War II. Later we discovered Netflix and Fresh Market pizza, and Friday nights became our night devoted to both. It just became far more appealing to sit in front of the television with Charles than to take a walk or go to the gym. Even though I have been faithful to my morning walk for the most part, I haven’t done one other thing to keep the body healthy.

I had my annual physical last week and my internist announced that my blood pressure was high. When his nurse forced me on the scale to check my weight, I was appalled. Those black pants from Chico’s (the ones with the elastic waistband) well, they had lulled me into denial.

It all happened one little choice at a time and I have no one to blame but myself. Why is it that poor choices don’t look poor until we are forced to face the consequences? The first thing that came to my mind was the verse about Satan sneaking around like a roaring lion seeking to destroy. (I Peter 5:8) Not that I would pretend to improve on God’s word, but I wonder if the original mentioned anything about the “roaring?” I am thinking lions are stealthy and quiet while they see their prey. Isn’t that the way most of our prodigal times begin—inch by inch rather than mile by mile? My friend Shirley gave me this great quote, “Sin will take you further than you want to go. It will keep you longer than you want to stay, and it will cost you more than you want to pay.”

Thank God, (literally) we have a Savior whose radical sacrifice has covered our tab. Here on the threshold of spring, when all of nature is shouting Easter’s redemption theme, it is as if God has pulled out all the stops to get our attention. Who can look around at the Dogwood, the Azaleas, and the Bradford Pears and fail to get the meaning of the verse in Luke 19 that says, “…if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.”? Who can miss a landscape that is bursting with color and life after a brutal winter of gray and frigid temps and not recognize there is a God who orders the seasons? The coming of spring strikes in even the coldest heart a desire to praise…or at the very least to be grateful that winter has passed and the new day has come.

I love this month’s issue. Pastor Dr. Jerry Young’s faith story is one about providence, about God’s persistent unseen hand that orchestrated his journey to the place God ordained him to be.

Pastor Jerry had his plans and so often thought the matter was not big enough to consult God about. As he met roadblock after roadblock, he eventually discovered that God’s plans really are higher and more far reaching than his vision could ever fathom. He discovered that nothing is small in God’s eyes when it concerns the plans He has for His own.

Check out Lydia’s recipes, Martin Willoughby’s thoughtful article about the “wakes” we leave.

His article made me think about how often we pass up opportunities to bless and instead create a chain reaction of negative impacts simply because we failed to stop long enough to consider the ripple effect of our words and actions. I have to plug Betsy’s article too. I have watched her deal with her dogs over the years and I must say that God can use any means to teach us about his love, and it just so happens that her soft heart for dogs has revealed much about God’s love to her.

When writers and preachers say that God is the relentless suitor who meets his beloved right where they are…I so get it. I get it more today than ever.

I wish for you, dear reader, a blessed Easter and a fresh and deep love for Him who loved you first! Y

I

My sheep listen to my ❝ voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.

❞

– John 10:27, 28

8 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Marilyn H. Tinnin, Publisher and Editor marilyn@metrochristianliving.com

metrochristianliving.com â?˜ APRIL 2011 9

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by MARTIN E. WILLOUGHBY, JR.

➺

the way i see it

What Kind of Wake are you Leaving?

My in-laws used to live on the water, and I remember the “Leave No Wake” sign that reminded boaters to be conscious of their wake.

Of course, there would be the occasional hotshot in a speedboat who would ignore the rules and crank it up full speed leaving huge disruptive waves for others to deal with. Whether we want to believe it or not, we all are leaving a wake with our lives. Our families, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers are impacted by our wake. None of us really live in a “no wake zone.”

The real question is what kind of wake are we leaving? Are we leaving a wake of destruction or sowing seeds of love and joy?

I think back to my life prior to knowing Christ, and I am ashamed at the pain and heartache that I caused others. I was leaving a destructive wake because I was living for myself. I was out for #1.

Pride and selfishness cause us to only think about ourselves and not how our lives are negatively impacting others. One of my favorite things is to hear people give their testimony, particularly when they are about to be baptized. These are usually inspirational stories about how God has worked in their lives transforming them from people living for themselves to living for Christ.

Their energy and passion is contagious. They are eager to start leaving a new wake. I take great comfort in knowing that no matter how bad my wake was or is, that I have been forgiven and that the slate is clean.

Just because we come to know Christ, it does not mean that all of our old habits disappear.

Many of these old habits are often tied to our selfish ways and have to be replaced with new habits born out of our relationship with Christ. As disciples, we are learning how to create new habits that bring glory to Him. Think of the wake of the early followers who risked their lives to share the Good News. Our lives are forever changed by the purposefulness and sacrifice of their lives. In more recent times, we can think

about Mother Theresa and the wake of love and compassion for the world’s most needy that she left behind. To bring it closer to home, perhaps there is someone who influenced your life in a positive way. Maybe it was a coach, a teacher, or a friend who planted seeds of hope in you.

When our lives on this earth come to an end, we try to capture the lives of those we love in short obituaries and meaningful services. While these are meaningful, they can’t come close to capturing just how important that person’s life was and how many people were impacted by it.

Like a ripple going out on the water that fades in the distance, we never really know how far and wide our wake really goes. I believe that we benefit from being conscious of our wake and purposeful in what kind of wake we are leaving behind.

Zig Ziglar shares a great story called “Kicking the Cat” that illustrates the ripple effect of our lives. His story starts with a CEO having a bad day and follows the downward spiral of negativity as each boss chews out the subordinate ending up with the switchboard operator chewing out her son who then kicks a tomcat in his path. As Ziglar says, “It would have been better if the CEO went directly to the switchboard operator’s house and kicked that cat himself and left all those other people out it.” Each of us can leave a wake of “kicking the cat,” or we can choose each day to be purposeful in leaving a wake of hope and joy for others. Happy Easter! Y Martin E. Willoughby Jr. is an attorney/business consultant with Willoughby Law Group, PLLC, located in Ridgeland. He and his wife Nicki have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Madison. metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 11

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a1000 words photo by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

“When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body.

Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?”

But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.

“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ” – Mark 16: 1-8

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 13

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by SUSAN DEAVER

➺

our daily bread

How Do You Keep The

FAITH? T

his column is for sharing our faith with other readers. Sharing with and serving others changes us and reminds us that our time on earth is about much more than our own needs. To share your story or favorite scripture, please e-mail us at info@metrochristianliving.com.

Sharon Fiveash There are times in my busy life when I seem to find myself just going through the motions of the day; work, cooking, household chores, family and church obligations. I call it my to-do list of life. The responsibilities can be overwhelming.

Sometimes I find myself becoming weary, not drawing from the strength that comes from a Father who loves me. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.”

Whatever my circumstances, God always provides for me in amazing ways, always giving me what I need. But I have to remember the focus. I have to make sure that I am not just going through the motions of my spiritual life. I want to love God the way He loves me, unconditionally. Galatians 5:6B says “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”

My earthly father passed away about three years ago. Oh how I miss talking with him when I need advice or learning from one of the many life experiences he would share. God longs for us to talk with Him, to depend on Him for all things. He wants to walk with us through the good and not so good times in our lives. What a comfort!

Survival for me depends on the constant connection with my Heavenly Father in every moment of every day. When the difficulties of life come along (and they will), I know that God is listening. Romans 8:21 “If God is with us, who can be against us.”

Sharon Fiveash and her husband David live in Brandon and have been married for 16 years. They have two sons, Matt Davis and Ryan Fiveash. They are members of the First United Methodist Church of Brandon. Y

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➺let’s talk it over

by FRED DAVIS

HOLD MY CALLS “HOLD MY CALLS!” Have you ever heard those words as you entered someone’s office? It’s a sweet sound. It means you have their undivided attention. “Hold my calls” is a way of saying this person is important to me. No interruptions! Those were the good old days. Fast forward to a time when everyone over eleven years old has a cell phone. We all have one and we all answer them as if every ring was from Ed McMahon. If you understand the Ed McMahon reference, you are old enough to remember when interrupting someone mid-sentence to talk to someone else was as rude as it got. Well, the times they’re a changing.

Recently, we had two of the grandchildren over and as we watched them rummage through Papa and B’s toy closet, we were surprised to see them settle on a pair of toy cell phones! That’s right all those electronic educational devices with lights, music, and video were left in a pile as the

two of them carried on play-like conversations for most of an afternoon with plastic phones! “Where are you?” “Had to run by the store, sorry.”

“Be home soon!” At first we were amused; then it dawned on us, that is what they hear every day. And not just from their parents, but from us, their grandparents.

Is this a little too close to home? Well, read on. At our counseling offices children tell us, “Mommy is always talking to someone else.” or “Daddy never looks at me; he stares at his phone.” And, in the saddest of cases, children say they don’t think their parents really like them. How can that be? We know parents love their children. They love them more than life; would step in front of a train to save them, right? That’s the truth okay, but not always the way the child perceives it. To understand how life looks to the phoneless, imagine a world where the two people you love the most never give you their undivided attention; never say “hold my calls.”

Easter is a great time to fall to our knees and thank God for the gift of children. What better time to decide to love them the way we are loved.

What better time to make some changes. Why not establish a “hold my calls” policy during the most important family moments; meal time, bedtime, the thirty minutes before kids are dropped off at school, the first thirty minutes you see them after school. That’s a start. Maybe your precious little people will feel they have your undivided attention. Y Fred Davis coaches and counsels kids and adolescents at Summit Counseling, Jackson, MS. His email address is 1waterfordplace@comcast.net.

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welcome home

by BRINT CALLAWAY

SPRING

10Gardening Tips

“Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in spring-time.”

– MARTIN LUTHER

1

Fertilize Azaleas after they finish blooming with Azalea fertilizer.

2

Spring is a good time to fertilize all your trees and shrubs. Use a good self penetrating tree and shrub fertilizer. You will also want to fertilize again later in the growing season.

3

Prune Azaleas shortly after they bloom. If you wait too long, you run the risk of pruning off next year’s blooms.

4

Spring is a good time to do general pruning on all trees and shrubs.

5

Although, some of your winter color, such as pansies, is still pretty, they will die as the weather warms up. If you wait to plant your summer color when your winter color dies, it is getting too late for the summer annuals. So grit your teeth and pull up the pansies to make room for your summer blooms.

6

Since fall and winter leaves have fallen, now is a good time to clean out your gutters.

7

Cut your grass lower to help control the winter weeds. Go ahead and fertilize with lawn food and pre-emerge weed killer which will target the summer weeds that have not sprouted yet.

8

April and May are excellent times to re-mulch all your beds. With warmer temperatures ahead, the mulch will help keep your plants roots cooler and keep in the moisture.

9

If you want to move some of your houseplants outside, be sure to keep them in filtered light. They can get sunburned just like us.

10

With people living in smaller spaces, a trend we are seeing is gardening in pots or raised beds. Popular plants for this kind of gardening include patio tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and any kind of herb. It’s very rewarding because you can enjoy the pretty plants as well as the fruits of your labor. Y

Brint Callaway is the owner and general manager at Callaway’s Landscape and Maintenance. Brint has a lifetime of experience and a degree in Landscape Contracting from Mississippi State University. To get more spring tips call Brint at 601-957-1731.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 17

➺fresh finds

by CHRISTI B. STECKEL and KATE THOMAS

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Who said Easter egg hunts were just for kids? Fill up your baskets with these great finds for kids and adults from locally-owned businesses around the metro area.

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Easter Egg Selection $5.95 - $7.95

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➺homeworks

by CATHY HAYNIE

Hospitality

IDEAS 20 to practice hospitality

on a

without straining your budget.

BUDGET 1 Peter 4:9 calls the Christian to “practice hospitality” even if you don’t feel particularly gifted at it or have financial resources to spare.

1. Shop in your own home first: always use what you’ve already paid for!

9. Host a pot luck and let everyone bring something.

10. Have a “bring your own steak or chicken” get together.

2. Visit the dollar store for baskets, decorations and more.

3. Start with inexpensive main dish ideas: homemade pizza or french bread pizza, ground beef, chicken thighs, soup, breakfast food, etc. (or prepare a one dish supper like tacos).

4. Add inexpensive sides like potatoes, pasta, rice, or salad.

11. Just coffee and dessert is a great way to visit with someone you don’t know.

12. Meet at Krispy Kreme for donuts or McDonalds Playland for coffee, ice cream cones and a chance for kids to play while you catch up.

5. The least expensive dessert is usually a cake you make at home.

13. Pair with a friend or two to provide a meal for a new mom.

6. Serve lemonade, tea or off brand soda.

14. Take one dish to someone, not a whole meal, such as a whole

7. Use your real dishes instead of paper goods 8. Have others over to play games, watch movies or watch a

✂

sporting event on TV.

Easy Apple Cake

4 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided 2/3 cup butter, softened 2 eggs 2 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon each cinnamon and nutmeg Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Layer apples in a treated 9x13 baking dish. Combine butter and 1 cup sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and beat well. Add flour and baking powder and mix until a soft dough forms. Combine 1/4 cup of remaining sugar with cinnamon and nutmeg. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons over apples in pan. Drop spoonfuls of dough over apples and spread together until apples are evenly covered. Sprinkle remaining cinnamonnutmeg sugar over dough. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and puffy. Variation: sprinkle 1 cup butterscotch chips over seasoned apples and continue.

20 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

smoked chicken from your grill, banana bread or homemade cinnamon rolls.

15. Be careful what you sign up for. Go for side dish or dessert when you have a choice

16. When providing snacks for kids, think inexpensive like mac and cheese, real chicken wings in barbecue sauce, cheese tortillas with salsa (multiply salsa by adding corn), cupcakes, apple crisps or snack mix (multiply mix with mini marshmallows)

17. Prepare it yourself: a meat, fruit, or veggie tray can be 4 or 5 times your cost and a store-bought cake offers the same mark up.

18. Search the Internet for low cost recipes and ideas.

19. Cultivate recipes that are easy and inexpensive to establish “traditions” for your hospitality

20. Don’t think that hospitality has to mean food: a note, a call, a hello at church can all be hospitable! Y Cathy Haynie and her husband Jack have three children and live in Madison. Cathy is the Headmaster of Christ Covenant School in Ridgeland. She occasionally speaks to groups on Honoring God in the Home, Managing the Busy Life, and Balancing Work and Home.

Contact her at chaynie@christcovenantschool.net.

by DANNY WILLIAMS

➺

money talks

You’ve tried Pump it Up... but have you tried Pump it Up

in the dark?!

Turn off the lights

turn on the fun!

Always a private party Everyone gets a glow necklace

Birthday child gets a glow-in-the-dark t-shirt to wear!

Spring Financial Fever

S

pring has sprung, as they say, and it’s amazing how quickly seasons change.

One day I look out my window and see mostly brown and barren trees, the next I see flowers blooming, new green growth everywhere, and blue birds making their nest.

On one hand, I get excited about the nice, warm weather and spending more time outdoors.

My mind tells me it’s time to get my garden started, ride my bike on the Natchez Trace or plan my first fishing trip to south Louisiana.

Here in lies the rub. There is a lot of competition for our time. We would like to be enjoying the great outdoors or watching our

I believe that a healthy investment strategy includes a partnership between the adviser and the investor. favorite team play baseball or basketball, but there is business to do. Throughout the year, we encourage our clients to schedule a time to review their financial condition. Although, this activity is not as much fun as the others, I recommend that you make this a priority. The process will help you better understand your current financial or investment situation. It will serve as a catalyst to ask questions about your strategy and may prompt action that may have been pushed to a lower priority. Often I see missed opportunities, like those not taking full advantage of their 401(k) pre-tax contributions.

As you can imagine, there are many issues that need attention. Just because you have addressed

it previously, doesn’t mean that you don’t need to review it periodically.

How many times have you reminisced about activities or hobbies you really enjoyed but are no longer participating in? For me, it is windsurfing.

Several of my friends will occasionally ask me to take out my windsurfer on a nice day. It’s hard to believe that it has been about seven years since I last windsurfed. I use to do it almost every weekend. For some reason I got out of the habit and it became less convenient or I became more interested in other things. Every year about this time, I say that I’m going to pull it out of storage, dust it off, and show my buddies that I can still windsurf.

All of these things make me think about how time really gets by us, and how easy it is to lose a year or even a decade before we realize what has happened. I suggest that you become more intentional about the financial activity in your life. It’s easy to do the little things day in and day out and often times, we procrastinate on starting more important projects because they take time and preparation to complete. I’m amazed at how many investors have started an investment account, IRA or 401(k) account, and believed that they could sit back and put it on automatic pilot. I believe that a healthy investment strategy includes a partnership between the adviser and the investor. So as you dust off your bike or begin spring cleaning, add a financial fix-up to the list and start spring off right. Y

www.pumpitupparty.com

601.992.5866

Danny Williams, CFP®, is a partner with Woodridge Capital, a registered investment advisory company located at 800 Woodlands Parkway, Suite 201, Ridgeland, MS. For more information, call 601-957-6006 or danny.williams@woodridgecapital.com. metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 21

April 2011

3/29/11

7:00 AM

Page 22

➺mars and venus

by HEATHER MAY

ALIVE AGAIN April is the season for new life to begin!

The grass begins to grow again, flowers begin to sprout and pollen is abundant. It’s no secret at my house that my “green thumb” was smashed before I was even born. No matter how hard I try to keep a new plant alive, it’s only a matter of time before it’s wilted and dead. That’s all the plant knows how to do if I’m not watering it enough or giving it adequate sunshine and attention. It cannot survive on its own.

In the same way, our lives without Christ are headed for death. It’s our nature. Ephesians 2:1 says “You were dead in your trespasses and sins.”

What a sobering reminder of the defeated state we were redeemed out of!

Many times we like to think back on our life before Christ and think we weren’t really that bad. We were still a good person, but the truth is we were dead. Not because we made sinful choices, but because we had a sinful nature. We could not survive on our own.

We were given some beautiful plants as a gift shortly after my husband and I were married, and we put them in gorgeous planters right outside the front door. I made a resolution that these two plants were way too beautiful, and I was going to do whatever I could to make sure they didn’t go the way of every other plant we had owned. We kept it up for a little while, but just like the others they died. I couldn’t believe they were really

22 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

dead. I left them in the planters…for months! I think I was hoping that they would just miraculously come back to life! But they didn’t. The difference between my plants and our lives is that while my plants couldn’t return to life, God made us alive again through Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ.”

As we approach holy week and the celebration of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, spend some time reflecting on the hopelessness you had before Christ. When you see the flowers beginning to bloom, and the grass beginning to turn green again, let it be a reminder to you of the new life you found in Jesus. His death brought us to life! This reality should compel us to live our lives for more than just ourselves. It should move us to compassion for those around us who are still living in death. Pray about how your family can help give life to those around you as we celebrate the new life we have in Christ this Easter! Y Heather May is a writer, blogger, and sour candy fanatic who works in the marketing field and is currently working on her first book. She and her husband, Bryant, live in Brandon and attend Pinelake church.

healthy living

by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

EXERCISE

with Purpose WANNA GO FOR A RUN? You may get that question a lot more as the weather warms up and daylight savings time gives way to longer evenings. Say yes to the run request and get moving!

Like many things in life, having an accountability partner for your fitness challenge can increase your success. When you combine working out with a partner and working out with a purpose the results are twofold. This spring there are many opportunities to join an organization to raise support for their cause. You can take on a personal challenge or join a team that is dedicated to a loved one who is battling a certain illness.

Join a “movement” and get moving. You’ll see results inside and out.

UPCOMING RUN OR WALK CHALLENGES IN THE METRO AREA: Jackson State’s Annual Walter Peyton Center Sweetness 5K walk/run and 1 mile fun run Fight Against Obesity is Saturday, April 02, 2011. For more Information call Chondra Johnson at 601-979-1557 or visit www.recservices.jsums.edu St. Dominic’s Magnolia Meltdown 5K walk/run and 1 mile kids run 8 am on April 2, 2011 at St. Dominic’s Dominican Plaza in Jackson. Proceeds will benefit Just Have A Ball, a nonprofit organization that promotes children’s fitness.

For more information call 601-200-6905.

8th Annual Leonard E. Warren Melanoma Foundation Run from the Sun 5K Run, 5K Walk, and Mile Kids Run is scheduled for 5:30 pm on April 9, 2011 in Jackson, MS. Fighting skin cancer.

Raising support for skin cancer research, education and awareness. www.runfromthesun.com

12th annual Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure on April 16, 2011. The race starts at 9 am in front of the Old Capitol on State Street in downtown Jackson, MS. All funds from the Komen Race for the Cure go to research, education, screening and treatment programs. Register at www.komencentralms.org

2nd annual Running the Race 5K Run, 5K Walk, Special Needs, and Mile races. This race is hosted by the First Baptist Church of Brandon. The race will begin at 8am on May 7, 2011. Any proceeds of Running the Race will benefit the Missions and Special Needs Ministry of FBC of Brandon.

The 2nd annual RACE for His Glory is hosted by Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Madison on April 23, 2011. The 5Krace starts at 8 a.m. For more information call 601-853-1090 or visit www.rcbc.org or www.msracetiming.com Brick Street Firefly 5k and 1 mile run is Friday, April 29th at the Baptist Healthplex in Clinton. Proceeds from the event go to benefit the Baptist Healthplex Children’s Fitness Programs. For more information call 601-925-7900 or visit www.mstrackclub.com Renaissance half marathon and 10K run in partnership with Marathon Makeover on Saturday, April 30th at The Renaissance at Colony Park. For more information call 1.888.64.START (78278) or visit www.runrenaissance.com National Multiple Sclerosis Society Walk MS on Saturday, May 7th at Barnes & Noble at Renaissance in Ridgeland. The money raised from the Walk MS event goes to local client services-to meet the needs of those living with MS and to help fund research. To participate or volunteer, visit www.walkmsmississippi.org or contact Angie Jackson at 601-856-5831.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 23

AL

Past

E

nergetic and passionate.

There is an easy smile and a light in his eyes when he shares his story. Sitting behind a huge desk in his study on a blustery cold Thursday morning in early March, Dr. Jerry Young is clearly content and at peace. One would never know this spiritual giant did everything he could to ignore God’s call on his life.

He decided as a little boy that he absolutely would not become a minister. He planned to go to law school, be the best lawyer around and become part of the legislative landscape of a changing Mississippi. One of ten children, Jerry grew up in the little Delta community of Lamont, north of Greenville in the early days of the Civil Rights Movement. His dad was a preacher, and even though he respected him tremendously, he did not want to follow in his footsteps, primarily, he says, because he did not want to be poor. Many times Jerry’s dad was paid by his congregation with turnip greens and potatoes while Jerry and his siblings needed

24 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

LWAYS PREVAILS

tor Jerry and Helen Young

clothes and shoes. Even though Jerry frequently felt God nudging him toward the ministry, he tried to stifle that voice and persuade God that his own plans for the future were better. His desire was to make a positive difference in the world, and he believed becoming involved in government was the means to that end.

Now in his 31st year as senior pastor of New Hope Baptist Church on Watkins Drive in Jackson, he reflects on the number one lesson God has impressed over his life’s journey: God, in His Providence, is sovereign over all. And some of what seemed like unfortunate turns of events at times were just God’s intervention to prevent Jerry from taking the wrong path.

Early Disappointments When Jerry graduated from high school in 1969, he enrolled at Alcorn University through a special grant program. He would be the first member of his family to ever go to college. The day before he was scheduled to register for

by MARILYN TINNIN

classes, a letter arrived telling him the funding for his grant had been cut and he would need to arrive with $450. He was devastated. “They might as well have told me to bring four million.

It was just as out of reach for me,” he says.

The semester began, and with no hope of attending college, Jerry took a job driving a school bus. Plan B would be to save a little money, migrate north to Chicago and work in a mill or a factory for decent wages. He was angry, hurt, confused, and thought his plans for college were just not going to happen—not then and not ever. God had another plan.

His high school principal, Mr. Ray Brooks, discovered Jerry was not in college. He would not let this young man who had been such an outstanding high school student give up on his dreams. Mr. Brooks called his friend Mrs. Zee Anderson Barron, executive director of Student Affairs at Coahoma Community College and told her about Jerry’s plight. He wanted to see this student go to college. She summoned Jerry, and

the very next Monday he moved into the one available spot on campus. His roommate just happened to be a preacher. Jerry sees even that as providence. God was relentless in his pursuit, but Jerry continued to fight the possibility of the ministry.

The turning point in that battle of his will versus God’s will came to a head while at Coahoma. “Because of my father, I had been ‘churchy’ all my life,” says Jerry, “But it was not until I attended a Baptist Student Union weekend retreat at Sophia Sutton Mission Assembly in Prentiss my freshman year that I actually made a serious commitment to Christ.”

Jerry felt that the key speaker that weekend aimed straight at his heart and soul. “It was as if I was the only person in the room,” Jerry remembers. He spoke of the difference between having a heritage in the church and having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. All Jerry could think about was his father’s ministry and his own responsibility to be sure his faith was in metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 25

funds had been cut. “Bring money,” Jerry laughs.

And the money was as out of his reach as it had been two years earlier. Surely God was not playing a bad joke on him. He had been obedient. He had done what God led him to do.

He had put his plans on the back burner. How could this possibly happen a second time?

Providence Again

At New Hope Christmas Fellowship dinner in 2010, Daughter Kelli, Jerry, Helen, and granddaughters Linzee and Lauryn Nelson.

Daughter Jerlin Nelson received her Ph.d from USM in December 2008. Left to right: Jerry, Picasso Nelson, Linzee Nelson, and younger daughter Kelli.

Christ alone, not in his family tree.

He came back from that weekend changed and surrendered. Even so, he hoped God would change his mind about calling him to preach.

The Reluctant Pastor It is hard to imagine why one who was so gifted fought the call so hard. But he did. When he completed his studies at community college, he was asked to preach one Sunday at Mount Tenia Baptist Church in Lamont. By this time, he had done a good bit of fill-in preaching, but his plan was to start school in the fall at Mississippi Valley State, complete his college studies, and if preaching was to be his lifework, he wanted to go to seminary.

When the church where he had filled the pulpit that Sunday issued an invitation to become their permanent pastor, Jerry immediately told them all the reasons he could not do that. He sought counsel from his father whom he hoped would agree that he was in no way ready to lead a church. Instead, his dad’s advice was to accept the invitation and he would walk with him through everything. “I will teach you,” said his dad. Jerry’s respect for his father was so great that despite how far pastoring was out of his comfort zone, he accepted.

The summer flew by and it was time to start the fall semester at Mississippi Valley. This arrangement seemed like it was going to work fine. Jerry could easily go to class during the week and be back in Greenville to pastor his little church on Sundays. But the day before he was to register for classes, a letter arrived. Déjà vu. The 26 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

“Once again, I was so devastated and angry,” he recalls. This time Mrs. Zee Anderson Barron found out that this promising young man was not in school. She called. He told her it was just too late no matter what since the semester was well under way. Maybe it was just not meant to be. Mrs. Barron did not like that idea and so she called a friend at Rust College in Holly Springs and within the week Jerry Young was enrolled.

The most significant part of this unexpected turn of events was that Jerry somehow registered by mistake for an economics class that was not even required for his sociology major. He dropped that course quickly, but not before he had met a very lovely girl named Helen Akins, a

“What I believe very seriously is that the church has to make sure it is answering the questions people are asking. The ideal is one thing. Reality is something else.” business major who found subjects like economics interesting. An easy friendship developed and grew into a very strong love for each other. They will celebrate 37 years of marriage this year.

Helen, who heads the pre-school at New Hope, (another providential story), says she was drawn to Jerry in those first days for a number of reasons. “He didn’t have a lot,” she says, “but I noticed that he always sat on the front row, was always prepared, and always dressed in a coat and tie.” She knew this man was going to succeed at whatever he set his mind to and never once has she thought she misinterpreted that thought.

Today, the Youngs are parents of two daughters, Dr. Jerlin Nelson and Kelli Young.

Jerlin is a teacher at Hattiesburg High School and is the mother of two little girls. Kelli is completing a Masters degree in school

administration at Mississippi College and presently teaches in Jackson Public Schools.

Jerlin recalls that life could so easily have been a “fish bowl” as the preacher’s daughter at one of the largest churches in the city, but she gives credit to her parents that it really was not. She said her parents were concerned about teaching her and her sister to think through their decisions and choose wisely in matters of right and wrong. They never put pressure on their children to uphold a perfect image because of their father’s position.

A Strong Marriage Helen was one of five children. Her parents, devout Methodists, owned a dairy farm near Starkville. Her childhood is filled with memories of attending conferences and retreats at Rust College, a United Methodist supported institution. She never thought of going to college anywhere else.

She and Jerry were married the weekend after they graduated and Helen prepared to be a preacher’s wife. Soft-spoken and supportive, she is a strong partner who explains that, “I pretty much positioned myself to be prayerful about everything and to follow his lead.” As decisions arise, Helen is a prayerful, deep and serene presence. Her great joy comes from knowing Dr. Young is in the place God wants to use him.

Decisions they have had to make over the years aren’t places where she has ever lobbied for something on her agenda. She is there to support him, but make no mistake. He depends on her advice and opinions.

“We decided early in our marriage,” she says, “that he would be more concerned about my happiness than his own and that I would be more concerned about his happiness than mine.” Jerry adds, “What it comes down to is that you can’t be selfish. What really creates most problems in the context of personal relationships are people who are selfish and self-centered and are driven by ego and a ‘me-mine’ mentality. If you want to destroy any interpersonal relationship, you can do so by being selfish.” Helen says, “We talk a lot about not having to win.” The Young’s believe that many marriages suffer when husband and wife have a competitive need to think they’ve won an argument.

God Surprises Again Soon after their wedding Jerry accepted the call from two small churches in Greenville; St. John Baptist Church and Pilgrims Rest Baptist.

One church met on the first and third Sunday.

The other met on the second and fourth. Jerry was a hard worker and a faithful student of the Bible, but he longed to attend seminary.

After two or three years, he applied and was accepted to New Orleans Baptist Seminary.

What kept him from attending was the fact that they had no available housing for married

students. The Youngs had just had their first daughter, and the thought of living somewhere in the city with a new baby and a husband who would not be at home terrified Helen. “So we returned to Greenville,” says Jerry, “and the registrar told us that housing would be available the next semester.” Their plan was to enroll then.

Meanwhile, a friend who was the principal of Greenville High School called Jerry and asked for a big favor. Would he please come and teach sociology that semester? The regular teacher had a surgery and would be out of school the remainder of the semester. Jerry had a sociology degree. Once again, God had a plan.

Reformed Theological Seminary Jerry Young settled into teaching at Greenville High School in 1977. One of his students was the daughter of a PCA (Presbyterian Church in America) minister who was planting a new church in Greenville. Tracy Mercer was so fond of her sociology teacher that she wanted to introduce him to her father.

Subsequently Reverend Mercer invited the Young family for dinner and had a heart to heart with Jerry about his future plans. Jerry told him of his plans to go to New Orleans Seminary. Mercer said, “Well, that is a shame because there is a much closer seminary you could attend.”

Jerry was all ears. He had no idea that Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) in Jackson, Mississippi even existed.

Without Jerry’s knowledge or blessing, Reverend Mercer contacted RTS and told them about this godly man who had made an impact on his daughter. The seminary, in its 15 year history, had never even had an African American student, but they responded by inviting Jerry and Helen down to take a look and to consider enrolling.

Everything down to the last detail fell into place.

Jerry smiles. Providence again.

Call to New Hope Jerry’s plan was to complete seminary and return to the Delta. He continued to pastor at the two small churches during his seminary training.

He thought he could persuade the two to merge and by pooling their resources and talents there could be a school and a ministry that truly made a difference in people’s everyday lives. He admits he didn’t ask God if He had another idea. After all, why would God object?

One Sunday morning in 1979 while still a student at RTS, Jerry had a rare day off so he decided to attend church in Jackson. He struck out early to visit a particular church only to discover that the pastor he wanted to hear was preaching somewhere else that morning. By default he entered New Hope. The pastor, Dr. Burns, recognized Jerry, and, to Jerry’s surprise, announced that the congregation had a treat in store as this outstanding seminary student would deliver the morning message. Somehow, a

reluctant Jerry Young, rose to the occasion. Eight months later the membership at New Hope voted him their new pastor. He declined. He was certain that he was going back to Greenville to pastor his churches there and he had absolutely no desire to take the reins at New Hope. Helen thought he should at least pray about it. He didn’t want to. Several weeks later as the Young family was traveling back to Greenville on a winter Sunday morning in January, their car hit a patch of ice The car spun in circles, ended up on the wrong side of the highway, hit by an oncoming car and hurled down an embankment. Nobody was hurt, but Jerry thought maybe God was trying to get his attention. He began to pray about where the Lord was calling him. And the rest is history.

New Hope’s Vision Under Young’s leadership, this church has experienced dynamic growth. He declines to give an exact number of members saying that there could be a number on the role but then there’s the reality of the number of involved members.

Apples and oranges, so to speak. He estimates the “involved” to number around 2,500; enough that the church is about to elect 16 to 20 new deacons to shepherd the ever expanding flock.

They are also on the verge of a major capital campaign to build a new facility on 16 acres they purchased off Interstate 220.

Dr. Young credits the “quality people who help me do ministry” with the growth and vibrancy evident everywhere at New Hope.

“They make it happen,” he says. “It’s having staff who love God, love the church and love their pastor and who really do, in a real way, help shoulder the responsibility.”

Ministries at New Hope include an addiction recovery group, prison ministry, grief share ministry, counseling ministry, divorce recovery ministry, an elementary school, a pre-school and more. “What I believe very seriously,” says Dr. Young, “is that the church has to make sure it is answering the questions people are asking. The ideal is one thing. Reality is something else. How do we help people literally deal with horrible times in their lives; how do we help them deal with a failure and then get beyond the failure so that they can live productive lives and be fruitful?”

New Hope is well named because it is all about new hope, a church of folks who do love God who have been well taught by their pastor and who have experienced the reality of the Living Hope found in Christ Jesus.

As for the young man who thought he could change the world through a political career?

Well, he now says, “Transformed people transform communities.” He never changed his mind about his mission. But he discovered that God’s ways can often be completely different from our ways. Y

Celebrate Springtime...

in Greenwood.

enwood around Plan your weekend in Gre want to miss! n’t do you amazing events

River to the Rails April 8-9, 2011 Back by popular demand!

Food, art, music, and activities for the entire family.

www.mainstreetgreenwood.com

The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards Friday, April 29, 2011 Hosted by Mississippi Valley State University Foundation at the Leflore County Civic Center.

www.mvsu.edu

Robert Johnson’s 100th Birthday Celebration May 5-8, 2011 Celebrate Robert Johnson’s 100th birthday with free live music, expert panel discussions, guided tours, Viking Cooking Classes, spa specials, and Alluvian Happy Hour.

www.greenwoodms.org/robertjohnson

Robert Johnson Exposed Cottonlandia Museum May 5th-September 10th, 2011 Explore details of Robert Johnson’s life and legacy with original album art, family pictures, and artistic interpretations of the legend.

www.greenwoodms.org/robertjohnson

Bikes, Blues and Bayous Saturday, August 6, 2011 Three rides for all levels of cycling: 20-mile, 46-mile, and 58-mile rides, with hospitality stations hosted throughout.

www.greenwoodms.com

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 27

Y 28 APRIL 2011 â?&#x2DC; Metro Christian Living

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A Fundraiser Benefitting The Christmas Village ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF THE GARDENS AT ROSEMEADE, THE HOME OF JOHN AND PATRICIA EAVES, AND JOIN US FOR REFRESHMENTS AND AN EASTER EGG HUNT! Saturday, April 23, at 2:00 pm Professional Photographer In Attendance

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➺legal advice

by WILLIAM B. HOWELL

How Many of These Three do you have Covered?

W

hen planning for our personal and family future these three areas greatly need your attention.

At Your Death. When you pass away as we all will one day, any assets that you own at the time will need to be dealt with. This can be accomplished in several ways. The simple way of putting someone’s name as a beneficiary may be satisfactory, or it may lead to complications, particularly if that person passes away before you do. There court may get involved, which you would just as soon pass up (probate of your will), and there could be other issues that you would prefer your family not to have to deal with. Some people elect to have a Living Trust as a method of avoiding probate and providing for the distribution that they choose without court involvement, delay and expense.

1.

If You Become Incapacitated. We are living longer than any other time in history, but during that extended life span we are not always going to be in good shape. What would happen if you are incapacitated for a period of time before you pass away, unable to manage your

2.

personal affairs, to pay your bills, to handle your assets? Who would take over? And, more importantly than the “who” is the “how” would they act on your behalf.

Some people rely upon a durable power of attorney, and that will often suffice, but not always.

No one under our state law is required to honor a power of attorney, regardless of how well written.

Some people elect to put someone else’s name on their account so that named person can deal with their assets if they become incapacitated. While that has a simple sound, it can lead to big problems because that action exposes that asset to that named person’s creditors, be it their divorce, car wreck, bankruptcy or whatever. Many have chosen to use a Living Trust to grant authority to a trustee to handle their business affairs in the event they become incapacitated, and to do so without the complications of other alternate methods. In short, a Living Trust cannot be turned down as a power of attorney can.

percentage of people that will be looking at spending some time in a nursing home is approaching 50%. How will you pay for it? This can be a very expensive proposition with the cost approaching $200,000 for the average nursing home stay. There are three ways of paying for nursing home care. The most popular method and the one that most people think they will utilize is referred to as “private pay.” That means paying out of your assets for your long-term care. Another alternative, and one becoming increasingly popular, is a policy of long-term care insurance.

This is a way of paying for that nursing home stay without depleting your own resources. Of course, the third way is to become totally impoverished (which most people in the private pay situation do eventually) and then they have their nursing home care paid for by the government under the Medicaid program. There are some planning options for this last alternative, but they must be done with great care and precision. Y

How Will You Pay the Nursing Home?

The fact of nursing home care being required is not going to hit everyone, but in the future, based upon current projections, the

William B. Howell is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and practices law in Ridgeland.

3.

You have worked hard for it.

WHY THROW IT AWAY? We are all living longer. But we are not all going to be in good health, or aware of our families, or both. Then what happens? Someone has to take over. The question is: Will this be someone you chose? And will it be outside of court or in court? The same with the distribution of your assets after you pass away: In court or out of court? The choice is yours. What about protecting your assets from lawsuits, or a child’s inheritance from a divorce? And will most of your hard-earned savings go to the nursing home? Or have you planned? Here are a few ideas for you to consider:

Living Trust – Allows the person you choose to take over for you in the event of your incapacity, without any court involvement. At your death the person you have chosen makes the distribution of your assets the way you have instructed in your Living Trust, and to do so promptly, inexpensively and privately, without going through probate in the court.

Asset Protection – Lawsuits are filed every day. If you get sued, are your assets protected? They can be, and probably should be.

Also, the divorce rate has never been higher than it is today. Will your child’s divorce cause them to lose half of what you leave them after you are gone? Not if you plan now. The level of protection (or not) is up to you.

Nursing Home Planning – Don’t qualify for long term care insurance, or can’t fit it in your budget? You don’t have to spend everything that you have in order to become eligible for nursing home benefits. There are legal and ethical ways for you to save well over half of your assets in most cases, even if you are already in the nursing home.

Hear Mr. Howell on the radio

Tuesdays 8:35 am WJNT NewsTalk 1180 30 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

THE LAW FIRM OF

WILLIAM B. HOWELL, LTD. 406 Orchard Park • Ridgeland, Mississippi (601) 978-1700 or (800) 839-7857

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

The Sky’s the Limit!

WHJT Goes up in the air for Make-A-Wish!

Renaissance in Ridgeland April 8.

WHJT Morning show hosts, Chad and Traci, will be broadcasting live Friday, April 8th from 6 a.m. until at the Renaissance in Ridgeland. They will be in a scissor lift provided by H & E equipment.

AND they’re not coming down until they raise enough money to grant a Mississippi child’s wish through the Make-a-Wish foundation.

That’s not all!...

Chad and Traci will be giving away autographed guitars from Aaron Gillespie & Dave Barnes, plus concert tickets, music & lots of other giveaways!

www.star93fm.com metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 31

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modern motherhood

by ROBIN O’BRYANT

Finding FOCUS Being single-minded is actually a good thing!

Spring Break! Depending on your current station in life that phrase can cause you to do one of the following: A) Squeal, jump up and down and yell, “O.M.G! Ya’ll! We are going to have so much fun!” or B) Begin to break out in cold sweats, as you try to take slow, cleansing breaths to ease your mild chest pains, while muttering, “I think I need to lie down for a second,” and wandering in circles around your house.

I fall into the cold sweat category. This year before spring break I found myself packing bags to literally send my family in four different directions.

I was heading to the mountains of Georgia for a YoungLives training retreat for five days. (YoungLives is a mentoring program for teen moms.)

My children were dividing their time between grandparents while I was gone since my husband was out of town for work. After my training week, I was going to reunite with my children and meet my husband at the beach for spring break.

In the days leading up to our departures, I stressed about my family being scattered. I fretted over the idea of being away from home for almost two weeks. I worried about everything that had to be packed; I needed warm clothes for my time in the mountains and my bathing suit for the beach. My daughters needed play clothes for to play at their grandparent’s farm, nicer clothes for church, and my middle child needed bottles and bottles of medicine to keep her asthma and allergies under control. I was consumed by the details and considered everything that could possibly go wrong.

But several things happened to ease my mind. After spending the last six years as a stay-at-home mother, I have become a master of multitasking.

While it’s nice to get multiple tasks accomplished at one time, I had completely forgotten how amazing it can be to be single minded— to completely focus all of your attention on one task. It was so refreshing to give 100 percent to soaking up the information and resources that were available throughout my retreat.

During one of our training sessions, John Evans, a regional director for YoungLife, spoke about Jesus taking care of his own needs and taking the time to retreat from his everyday life and ministry. In Matthew 15, we read

about Jesus healing people and feeding 5,000 with only a little boy’s lunch. He just performed miracles and had been completely focused on the ultimate in multitasking—his ministry. After being pulled in thousands of directions, he gathered his disciples to him and retreated to rest and refocus. I realized the refreshing I was experiencing was Biblical.

Life is overwhelming. Our culture is so busy, multitasking has become more than a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle. As we strive to get everything done that needs to be done, we often forget to stop and focus on a single task, to do one thing well.

I learned that while it was a sacrifice to be away from my family for five days, it allowed me to focus whole heartedly on one thing that I’ve been called to do and when I was reunited with my children I was able to focus completely on them. I’ve learned that sometimes “balance” isn’t juggling 100 tasks at one time, but setting aside time that can be completely devoted to one purpose. Last week my focus was YoungLives training, but this week my purpose is to marinate in the joy that comes from being a wife and mother. And to hopefully keep my kids from peeing in the swimming pool! Y Robin O’Bryant is a wife, stay-at-home-mother to three daughters, author, humor columnist and speaker. She thanks God for the days she is successfully able to multi-task. Read her blog at www.robinschicks.com or contact her via email at robinschicks@gmail.com.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 33

➺food for thought

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work.”

by LYDIA BOLEN

– John 4:34

EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH

Easter Sunday lunch is a special time for families to gather after church and enjoy being together. Many families anticipate traditional dishes each year. I remember my favorites from my childhood…roasted leg of lamb, frozen fruit salad, and carrot cake. Sample my menu and cherish your family time this Easter!

ROAST LEG OF LAMB 1 leg of lamb (about 5 pounds) 3 garlic cloves, slivered 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

1 1/2 teaspoons dried or fresh rosemary 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper, coarsely ground Coarse salt

Remove lamb from refrigerator 1 hour before roasting. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Make small slits in the lamb and insert the garlic slivers. Rub lamb all over with lemon juice , then pat the rosemary and black pepper evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with salt. If you are using fresh rosemary, just insert the sprigs with the garlic slivers into the cuts you made. Place lamb fat side up on a rack in an uncovered pan. Roast for 30 minutes to a pound or until the internal temperature is 175-180 degrees for meat well done. If you prefer slightly rare lamb, roast until 160-165 degrees. When done, remove from oven, cover the roast in foil and allow it to rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve the lamb with crisp, golden brown roasted potatoes and a cauliflower cheese dish.

FROZEN FRUIT SALAD 2-8 ounce packages cream cheese 1-16 ounce can fruit cocktail (drain and save 2 tablespoons of juice)

1-7 ounce can crushed pineapple 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon horseradish

Soften cream cheese to room temperature. Blend cream cheese, sugar, and horseradish with mixer. Add drained fruit cocktail, the 2 reserved tablespoons of fruit cocktail juice, crushed pineapple with its juice (you can add a little maraschino cherry juice for color.) Freeze in individual molds or in a rectangle dish. Serve on a bed of lettuce on individual salad plates. For an extra presentation, add a dollop of mayonnaise and a stemmed Maraschino cherry. For another variation, drizzle poppy seed dressing over the top of the salad.

CARROT CAKE CAKE 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 3 eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 cups shredded carrots (5 medium) 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans

FROSTING 1 (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup butter, softened 2 to 3 teaspoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 cups powdered sugar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray “Baker’s Joy” in one 9 by 13 inch pan. In a large bowl, beat sugar, oil, and eggs with electric mixer on low speed about 30 seconds. Add flour, cinnamon, baking soda, vanilla, and the salt; beat on low speed for 1 minute. Stir in carrots and nuts. Pour into 9 by 13 pan and bake 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Place rectangle pan on cooling rack and cool completely (about an hour).

In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, milk and vanilla with electric mixer on low until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, on low speed. Frost cake. Decorate top of cake with a design of toasted pecans, if desired. Store in refrigerator.

34 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

For those who want

EASTER CUPCAKES

a special reminder

Easter cupcakes are a fun way to get children involved with your Easter lunch celebration. They are easy to prepare ahead, and a great way to encourage creativity.

CUPCAKES Use white cake mix and follow directions on the back of the box. For added decoration, use Easter themed cupcake liners.

BUTTER CREAM ICING 1 pound confectioners’ sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 stick butter, softened 3-4 tablespoons milk Green food coloring Blend 1/3 of the sugar with the butter in mixer. Add the vanilla, 2 tablespoons of milk, and the rest of the sugar to the mixture. Gradually stir in more milk until desired consistency. Add a few drops of green food coloring and mix well. Makes enough icing for 24 cupcakes.

Frost cooled cupcakes with green butter cream icing. Fill a pastry bag with icing and use a Wilton number 233 tip to achieve the green grass look. To keep it simple, you can use an off-set spatula.

Decorate with colorful egg shaped malted milk balls or jelly beans.

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➺outside in

by CHRIS BATES

The Kids Are WATCHING advises us, “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and ecently my eleven year old daughter and I were getting deceptive philosophy, according to human tradition and not according to ready to leave the house for an activity and got into a Christ.” I allow myself to be a victim of deceptive philosophies all too conversation about our family and extended family. She regularly and perhaps error greatest when I allow myself to reflect that as turned and sat on the edge of the counter and unexpectedly said, “Dad, you a parent. know, God really loves our family, and no matter what, we are there for In a prior column I suggested that, as men, we can best serve each other, and that is the most important thing of all.” It was one those around us professionally through transparency and of those moments that I knew God was present, and felt example. This principle is perhaps even truer in our indescribable gratitude for hearing that roles as parents and leaders within our families. perspective from my child. I later said to my My own extended family, not unique to us, has significant other that of all the efforts and walked through many significant challenges; communications I have exercised in helping to Challenge yourself to practice deaths, divorce, and other life changing events raise her, the principle behind that statement is what we know is best. Do we and losses. I can truly say, though, that through perhaps of greatest reward; That my daughter allow the children to hear us it all we have been there for one another, and realizes that God, family, love, relationships, that there exist few greater relationship gifts and support for those closest to us are primary disrespecting or judging others that we can give to each other. As adults within in life is an amazing blessing. while on a cell phone call? our families, do we respect each other when we To some degree or another, we all realize disagree? Do we stand behind one another even that materialistic needs and the many shallow when it is hard? Do the stronger of us reach out means by which we unfortunately judge one to the ones who are in the midst of challenge? another are not Godly and are fruitless. The These questions and more are vital to ask and answer for such an hard types of questions to ask the person looking at you in the mirror important reason among others as; The kids are watching. are; “How do I live day in and day out that is a testimony to the things that So, challenge yourself to practice what we know is best. Do we allow matter spiritually?” or “what am I really teaching to my children at every the children to hear us disrespecting or judging others while on a cell opportunity?” We all fall short to one extent or another. Colossians 2:8 phone call? Do we reflect to them through our actions that if we could just buy this particular house, car or item that we could be much happier?

Instead, what if they see us hold our heads high when we are ashamed?

How about letting them witness us making a difficult apology? What about sitting them down, looking them in the eye, and admitting that you handled something in a way in which you wish you hadn’t, and that now you are doing your best to make amends? It requires us to be very conscious of ourselves and our actions, which ultimately comes from spiritual guidance. “I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me, and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:5). Y

R

Chris is president of Agora Company, LLC, a marketing, business strategy and advertising company based in Ridgeland, and can be reached at Chris@AgoraCompany.com. He and his daughter, Anna Catherine, live in Jackson.

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601-790-9076 or Order Online www.metrochristianliving.com 36 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

➺

single still, single again

by BETSY SMITH

A Pet Parable

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. – ISAIAH 55:8,9

A

year ago I adopted a sweet black Lab whom I named Sozo, which means “Rescue” in Greek. A law professor from my college found him chained to a tree beside a very busy street. He sent an email around to former students and several of them thought of me when they received it. They knew I missed my recently deceased pet, Herschel Walker, and both my other Lab, Scout and I had grieved for months. She needed a friend. Long story short we adopted him. At first, it seemed he would never adjust. He didn’t like people or other dogs. I tried to give him back, but the professor was in France for six weeks and there was no way to return him. I had no choice but to persevere. I ended up keeping him. He adjusted with some special surgery for male dogs and a little Prozac. The three of us (Scout, Sozo and I) have been kicking it ever since.

A few weeks ago he had his yearly check up and when I came back to pick him up the vet had a sit down with me about how much he weighed. My instructions were “Sozo needs to lose 22 pounds.” I said “I’ve been trying to drop six pounds for two years. How am I going to get a dog to drop 22?” He went on to tell me that he wasn’t healthy, his knees would be bad, his heart…yada-yada-yada.

“But he’s happy.” I said. That night when I sprinkled a few morsels of food into his bowl and he looked at me all sad. I thought about how our heavenly father sometimes takes things from us or doesn’t give us what we think will make us happy because he has our best interest at heart and knows the plan. I don’t want Sozo to eat himself into a heart attack just because it will “make him happy” in the short run. He will not be happy when he starts having a hard time breathing, he can’t get up steps because his knees are worn out and can’t play at the dog park with the other dogs. Every morning for the last two weeks he has looked at me with these terrible eyes as if to say, “Why are you doing this to me?”

My response, “I do this because I love you and I have the recipe for a happy life. You think you do, but what you think makes you happy will eventually lead to a slow painful death.”

So, next time you think you are being punished, rejected or didn’t get what you want, remember rejection is protection for promotion.

Y

Betsy Smith lives in Birmingham, Alabama and is employed by Boston Scientific-Neuromodulation as a medical device representative. metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 37

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38 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

let’s get real

by MARILYN TINNIN

TAKE HEART

GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON

90%

of women have risk factors for developing heart disease.

One woman dies every sixty seconds of heart disease. It now surpasses cancer as the number one killer of women. And did you know that the warning signs of an impending heart attack are totally different in women than in men? Do these facts get your attention?

The American Heart Association hopes so. If education is the first line of defense, then join hundreds of women at the Go Red for Women Luncheon on Friday, May 6 because it could literally save your life.

Registration begins at 10:00 am at The Country Club of Jackson at 855 St. Andrews Drive. Representatives from University Medical Center, Jackson Heart, and experts in the fields of nutrition, diet and fitness will conduct screenings and breakout sessions.

A Heart Healthy Luncheon, silent auction and Survivor Fashion Show complete the venue. Wear your favorite red dress and round up your friends.

Tickets are $75 and available through Carmen Keys at (601) 321-1211 or online at www.heart.org/metrojacksongored

TERESA BOUTWELL knows firsthand the critical need for women to take seriously the health on one’s heart. She was just 44 years old when she began to feel exhausted all the time. In the beginning she thought she was getting the flu, but her symptoms were not relieved by any medication. She lived a fairly healthy lifestyle, did not smoke, did not drink alcohol, and ate a reasonably healthy diet, or so she thought. As the fatigue began to interfere with her active life, she made several visits to her physician who eventually decided to send her to a cardiologist for evaluation.

It was all a bit irritating to Teresa. She had a full-time job and a family. Her daughter was expecting her first grandchild. She did not have chest pain at all, so, in her mind, seeing the cardiologist was a waste of time. But she complied.

What a shock to find that she had at least 50% blockage and her only hope to survive more than a few months would be to have coronary artery bypass surgery. She was, literally, a heart attack waiting to happen. Three days later, a very terrified Teresa was wheeled into surgery. That was in January of 2008.

Today, the busy lady holds down her full-time job and has plenty of energy left over to enjoy her three grandchildren. She speaks of gratitude to God and to the caring team of doctors who saved her life, friends who prayed and family who held her hand the entire journey. There is nothing she takes for granted.

“I live life to the fullest every day,” she says. “I’m now more intentional about everything in my life.” And she means it. Whether it’s being there to enjoy her family or taking a three mile walk around her neighborhood. Her days consist of making healthy choices to reduce her risk.

Her advice to other women? “Know your numbers, eat right, exercise every day, and pay attention to your body. If you just don’t feel like yourself, get checked out!” Y

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➺in black & white

by NEDDIE WINTERS

MISSION MISSISSIPPI The Mayors’ Luncheon

M

ission Mississippi exists to encourage and demonstrate unity in the Body of Christ across racial and denominational lines, so that communities throughout Mississippi can see practical evidence of the Gospel message.

One of the ways Mission Mississippi fulfills this mission is to host the Annual Mayors’ Prayer Luncheon.

Christians from all over the state gather to pray for the mayors, local leaders and our cities. The audience gets an opportunity to hear great speakers, experience a message of reconciliation, witness exciting testimonies and engage in conversations that challenge us to grow personally in racial relationships. The Mayors’ Luncheon is a great illustration and demonstration of how the Christian community comes together and celebrates unity.

The keynote speaker for this year’s luncheon is Mrs. Rose Jackson Flenorl, Manager Social Responsibility of the FedEx Corporation. At a corporation known for delivering the world to our doorsteps, Rose Jackson Flenorl represents the heart of the FedEx Corporation.

Propelled by her philanthropic expertise and strong business

Christians from all over the state gather to pray for the mayors, local leaders and our cities. acumen, she manages the company’s award winning Global Citizenship operation where she focuses on signature programs and relationships with national and international community outreach organizations. In this role, she directs corporate resources toward initiatives in the areas of disaster relief, pedestrian and child safety, environmental sustainability, education, and diversity.

Her outstanding leadership qualities and humanitarian spirit have cultivated opportunities to improve lives throughout the world. She represents FedEx on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic

n of Largest selectio ols to rs ba d kitchen an ea! ar ro et M in the

Hundreds of st yl to choose from es !

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15

Leadership Center (BCLC) Board, the American Red Cross Corporate Advisory Council and the Conference Board Contributions Council.

An active participant in the community, Rose serves on the Clarksdale native Rose Jackson boards of the National Civil Flenorl, present Manager Social Rights Museum, the Responsibility of the FedEx University of Corporation will headline Mission Mississippi Alumni Mississippi’s Mayor’s Luncheon.

Association, and the Accrediting Committee of the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication.

She has also served on the boards of the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship and the United Way of the Mid-South. She is a graduate of Leadership Mississippi, Leadership Memphis and Tennessee Leadership.

Mrs. Flenorl was born and raised in Clarksdale, Mississippi and is a graduate of the University of Mississippi. She was the first black female named to the student Hall of Fame and was chosen by Glamour Magazine as one of the top 10 college women in the United States. Rose continues to make an impact as a leader at her alma mater; she was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame in 1998 and in 2008 served as president of the national Alumni Association. She also serves on the Ole Miss Journalism Advisory Board and is a charter member of the Ole Miss Women’s Council.

Mission Mississippi invites you to join us for this exciting event, Thursday, May 12, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Jackson Convention Complex. There are group tickets available for businesses, schools, churches or other organizations. Individual tickets are $45. Please contact the Mission Mississippi office at 601.353.6477 or otilia@missionmississippi.org Y Neddie has served as a member of the Board of Directors, Executive Director, and now President of Mission Mississippi.

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40 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

chasing solomon

by SCOT THIGPEN

THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A ZOO IN Collins, Mississippi

T

There is a zoo in Collins, Mississippi.Yes, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s located right off Highway 49. It has a painted wooden fence and has been there for about twenty years. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about all I can tell you. I have no idea what is on the other side of that fence because I have never experienced it first hand. You may have seen it yourself or even visited. I passed it again recently and noticed there were three cars parked out front. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about three more than I can ever remember seeing before.

I have traveled past that zoo a hundred times I bet, and have said on many occasions that I should stop and check it out.

I always wonder what I am missing by not exploring the Collins Zoo. The reason I have never stopped is because I have been preoccupied and in a hurry to get to my destination.

Sometimes I get Highway 49 confused with the Talladega Speedway. Usually, I have already taken a mandatory pit stop at the Stuckeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Hattiesburg, loaded up on the traditional pecan log roll, and am not about to stop again before getting back home to Jackson. The truth is I am in too big a hurry to notice, much less stop and see what the Collins Zoo is all about.

The last time I passed the Collins Zoo was on our way home from our spring break beach trip. For some reason, it made me reflect on this whole notion of busyness. We are busy people. It is so easy to get caught in the rat race that we miss out on the best things in life. The very things that preoccupy our lives are probably the very things that need to be carefully examined from time to time. It probably isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a tragic thing that I have missed the Collins Zoo experience. However, there are times that it is indeed tragic to blow right past something because we are too busy to pay attention to them. Lent would be one of those times.

Lent is a 40 day season for Christians to prepare for Easter. It is a gift if we use it as a time of reflection. And reflection takes time. We have to

It is so easy to get caught in the rat race that we miss out on the best things in life.

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make a conscious decision to hit the brakes on our Talladega paced lives and put our worlds in park for awhile. That is the first step. You may have sped past Easter for years, never taking time to pull over and explore what God can show you when you really listen and reflect on Him for the 40 days of Lent. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell you much about the Collins Zoo but I do know that 40 days of reflection will make this Easter Sunday the most meaningful ever for you.

But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop there. I imagine that there are countless nonchurched people that ride by churches every day, but have never experienced firsthand the life giving relationship that awaits them on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;other side of the fenceâ&#x20AC;?. The good news is that they do have somebody that is experiencing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

And that person is you. During your time of reflection, wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you see if you are led to invite somebody to church? You never know what your simple invitation might lead to.

Let me challenge us all to slow down our fast paced lives, have a daily time of personal reflection to listen and respond to Jesus Christ; the one whose life, death, and resurrection we will celebrate. Y Scot Thigpen is the author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chasing Solomonâ&#x20AC;? and President of Solomon Financial Advisors and Solomon Ministries.

David J. Gandy, M.D., F.A.C.S., C.I.M.E. BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON General Adult and Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Certified Independent Medical Examiner

General and Pediatric Orthopaedics Pediatric and Adolescent Sports Medicine Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Compensation/Independent Medical Examinations Arthroscopic Surgery Joint Replacement and Reconstruction Foot and Ankle Surgery Orthopaedic Trauma and Fractures

(601) 981-7212 24 Hour Answering Service 971 Lakeland Drive, Suite 950 (W. Tower, St. Dominic Office Building) Jackson, Mississippi 39216

www OFXTVNNJUTDIPPM DPN t 141 -FMJB %SJWF t +BDLTPO M4 t 01.982.7827 Dr. Nancy New - Executive Director metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; APRIL 2011 41

â&#x17E;şevent collage

The 21 Christian Leaders of the Future: Front Row: Callie Brown, Katherine McGrath, Erin Ball, Courtney Cox. Second Row: Tripp Dowdy, Meredith Ury, Katherine McCracken, Landon Adams, Laura Lee Lewis. Third Row: Andrew Fehrenbacher, SarahBailey Roberts, Emily Russell, Jack Griffith. Back Row: Elijah Friedeman, Chad Smith, Murray Miller, Will Hedgepeth, Chandler Rogers, Brad Baxter

Metro Christian Living magazine hosted the 3rd Annual Christian Leaders of the Future reception on the Belhaven University Campus March 3rd. Twenty one students from around the metro area were chosen from a field of over 100 applicants from 40 different schools. The selection process included essay questions about incorporating their Christian principles into their everyday lives. The students were selected by a panel of four judges.

Nearly 100 family and friends attended the reception where the students were given attended a pre-college workshop. Guest speaker, Joel Bomgar spoke about being different in a common world. Bomgar is the Founder and CEO of Bomgar Corporation.

Sponsors of the event include Title Sponsors: Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company and Cellular South Foundation. Senior Sponsors: Belhaven University, Carr, Riggs, and Ingram. Junior Sponsors: First Commercial Bank, Patty Peck Honda, Matt Ballew Security, MMI Hospitality, Stegall Imagery, New Perspectives and Screaming Peacock. Y

Linda Kay, Emily and Kevin Russell

Angie, Chad and Stan Smith

Andrew Fehrenbacher, Robyn, Ryan, Daniel, Natalie, Patricia Frazier, and Missy Samsel

Sylvia, Katherine and Weaver McCracken

42 APRIL 2011 â?&#x2DC; Metro Christian Living

Connor Alford, Laura Lee Lewis, Tressa Guynes, Millard Burgess, Lorin Lewis, Mark Lewis, Betty Lewis, Jane Johnson, Nancy Fisher

Have You Fixed Your Dirt Crawl Space Yet? Get Rid of That Damp, Musty Smell in Your Home!

Dr. Roger Parrot, Joel Bomgar, Scholarship winners Courtney Cox and Andrew Fehrenbacher, and Marilyn Tinnin

The earth in your dirt crawl space is the major source of moisture in your home! This moisture is carried up into your house from [OL UH[\YHS \W^HYK HPY Ă&#x2026;V^ JYLH[LK MYVT YPZPUN OLH[ The CleanSpaceÂŽ Crawl Space Encapsulation System is the answer!

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Call Today!

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Summit Recovery Ministries INTENSIVE COUNSELING PROGRAMS (ICP) For individuals and families from a Christian perspective Teresa and Callie Brown, Sarah Bailey Roberts, Jennifer Bowman-Roberts

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Stephanie Hopkins with Southern Farm, Christi Steckel with Metro Christian Living and Patty Christie with Patty Peck Honda

Behavioral Problems Anger Management Depression/Dealing with Loss Self-Esteem Social & Life Skills/Problem-Solving Skills/Goal Setting/Communication Skills Family Dynamics/Emotional Healing Assertiveness Training Drug/Alcohol Abuse/Dependency Eating Disorders/Self Harm Pornography/Sexual Addiction/Sexual Identity

601.949.1949 www.counselingministry.com metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; APRIL 2011 43

➺rave reviews BOOKS

The Fast-Food Kitchen Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson

B EYOND Y OUR B EST .

As studies continue reinforcing the importance of families eating meals together, parents continue to struggle with the challenge of getting those meals on the table. Between work, school, and church activities, finding time to plan and prepare meals is tricky. Author Sheri Torelli offers help for this dilemma in The Fast-Food Kitchen.

She begins by acknowledging the difficulties today’s busy lifestyle creates before defining a fast-food kitchen.

Throughout the book she recommends gradual change as you’re able to incorporate suggestions rather than feeling overwhelmed by doing everything at once.

Once completed, you will have an organized kitchen with staples at hand and recipes ready, including shopping lists.

Double duty cooking—doubling recipes and freezing the extra—maximizes kitchen effort. Another recommendation is for do-ityourself frozen TV dinners made from leftovers. The author then goes beyond organizational how-to, including suggestions on age-appropriate tasks for

children, saving money on groceries, and the importance of hospitality. A master plan allows you to create a personalized process for creating a fast food kitchen.

Once you’ve created your plan, you can use your own recipes or choose from the 100 recipes included. Each gives both prep time and cooking time in addition to number served and approximate calories per serving. The author also suggests side dishes to go with entrees to make completing the meal easier. Other comments and tips on time saving add value.

Finding time to grocery shop and cook is never easy, but The Fast-Food Kitchen can help reduce the challenge. Y Susan E. Richardson is a writer, critique reader, and former Christian retailer with a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word. You can reach her through her website www.nextlevelcritiques.com.

MOVIE Excel beyond your highest goals.

At Belhaven University, you will find yourself in a place where top-rated faculty and a nurturing environment converge to bring you to your best … then propel you beyond what you believe is achievable.

Nationally recognized academics.

Vibrant campus life. Christ-centered worldview. The faith-affirming support to become more.

Aim for excellence from God’s perspective. Visit Belhaven University … your place to discover your purpose.

belhaven.edu Schedule a personal visit to Belhaven University or attend our next Discover Day on April 15.

44 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Beastly Reviewed by Marcus Williams Beastly (PG-13) is a film of drama, fantasy, and mostly romance. Beastly’s story is loosely based on the tale, Beauty and the Beast. This modern day version packs its own surprises and entertaining twists into well scripted to a love story.

Alex Pettyfer stars as high school senior, Kyle Kingsbury. Kyle exudes everything vain, pompous, and self-involved in this world.

Kyle’s reign as king of high school is deterred by a nemesis named Kendra, played by MaryKate Olsen. To teach Kyle about inner-beauty, Kendra curses Kyle with physical disfigurement.

Kyle’s social exile by those closest to him fuels his quest for inner-beauty coupled with a race against time to reverse his curse. Fellow classmate Lindy Owens, played by Vanessa Hudgens, is thrust into his world through dire circumstances of her own. Comic relief and nurturing for Kyle comes in the form of his blind tutor, Will and his maid, Zola.

The scenes between Kyle and Lindy against the back drop of New York City bring out the beauty of this tale. As the seasons change, so does the demeanor of Kyle into a man of trust and compassion. Lindy begins to trust him more and more but a decision has to be made on whether she should stay or go. Hudgens and Pettyfer do a suitable but somewhat clumsy job when on screen together. If not for the supporting cast, some scenes would be much harder to watch.

The beauty of Beastly clearly lies in the hearts of its characters. The darkness of Kyle’s heart helps us appreciate the light that resonates in the heart of Lindy. Beastly plays to the audience of romantics who look for the best in everyone. Y Marcus Williams who lives in Brandon, MS. He enjoys the simple things in life such as comics, movies, and great friends.

events calendar April 9 The Crystal Springs MacDowell Music Club is sponsoring a Tour of Homes featuring three historic homes dating from the late 1800’s to the mid 1900s.

Enjoy a walk through time and support the Mississippi School of the Arts in Brookhaven. For ticket information call 601-892-5352.

JACKSON April 6 Pump it Up at 1576 Old Fannin Road will host the 3rd annual Open Jump to benefit Autism Speaks!

Activities include a free jumping session from 3-5 p.m. for families of autistic children and then, from 6-9 p.m., the public is invited for a free pop-in playtime! For more information call 601992-5866.

April 12 Have you ever been curious in the art of glass making? The Jackson Symphony League will host its annual spring luncheon at The South featuring guest speaker, Annie Morhauser, of Annieglass fame. A delicious lunch, provided by Fresh Cut Catering and Floral, will be served. For ticket information contact Reservations Chair, Jean Bush, at 601502-6668.

residents and an Easter egg hunt. The proceeds from the sale of the silent auction items will assist each of the residents in purchasing their own transportation. For tickets and more information visit www.thechristmasvillage.org/rosemeade or call 601-946-0094.

April 30 Fellowship of Christian Athletes 24th Annual Wild Game Luncheon with Guest Speaker, Grant Teaff. 11:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. at the First Baptist Church.

Meal prepared by Billy Joe Cross, World Famous Game Chef. Order your tickets online at www.fcams.org or call for more information about sponsoring at 601-856-3224.

May 6 Jackson Go Red for Women Luncheon, sponsored by the American Heart Association, will be held at the Country Club of Jackson from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Activities include a silent auction, health screening, survivor fashion show and a keynote speaker. For additional information call 601-321-1204.

CLINTON April 16-17 St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Parents’ Association will host Arts on the Green, a two day arts festival celebrating art, music, family and community. For more information contact Vickie Snypes at 601927-2318.

April 9 Come celebrate the return of spring as Main Street Clinton kicks off its fourth season of the Olde Towne Markets with Spring into Green. This fun filled family event will feature the 4th annual Caterpillar Parade plus emphasize the talent of recycled art.

April 23 The Christmas Village is hosting its 2nd annual Garden Party at Rosemeade Gardens, home of John and Patricia Eaves. There will be a silent auction with items made by The Christmas Village

PEARL April 16 Mississippi Opry’s Harmony & Grits presents Polkville City Limits at the Pearl Community Room at 2420 Old Brandon Road. Enjoy an evening of Bluegrass, Gospel, and County music at this fun filled family event. For more information call 601-331-6672 Y

WHAT’S GOING ON?

Madison Ridgeland Academy’s signature event, The Gardens of Madison County, celebrates its 17th year April 30 – May 1. What began as a small fund-raiser for the school has grown into an event that attracts home and garden connoisseurs from all around the state.

This year, eight lovely landscaped gardens, in several different Madison county neighborhoods will be featured. From Reunion to Bridgewater to Tavern Hill, Olde Town and Sundial Road, there is inspiration for every green (or even brown) thumb out there.

In addition to the beautiful garden and outdoor living designs, 17 designers will create tablescapes at every location, and these fabulous decorations will also be for sale. There will be cooking demonstrations, party and entertaining ideas, an array of gifts, gardening items, hanging baskets and original art in the Garden Gate Gift Shop. The Gardens’ featured artist this year is Mark Millet of Ridgeland. The gift shop is headquarters for the Tour and is located at Madison Ridgeland Academy at 7601 Old Canton Road in Madison.

Hours for the tour are Saturday, April 30 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday, May 1 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased at the gift shop or at any of the tour homes. $12 is such a modest fee to get to visit these gardens…you might pick up some transformation ideas of your own! Visit www.mragardens.com or call the school at 601-856-4455 for more information. Y

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2011 45

APRIL 2011

CRYSTAL SPRINGS

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISING INDEX ADVERTISER

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Cut out the scriptures and quotes and place them around your home for daily encouragement!

✂

“So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’ ”

“Our old history ends with the cross; our new history begins with the resurrection.”

“There’s nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with chocolate.”

– Watchman Nee

– Luke 17:10

“Easter says you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.”

– Linda Grayson

“The seed dies into new life and so does man.”

– Clarence W. Hall

– George Macdonald

“The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is his.”

– Genesis 49:10

“We live and die; Christ died and lived!”

“And he departed from our sight that we might return to our heart, and there find Him. For He departed, and behold, He is here.”

– John Stott

– St. Augustine

“The angel said to the women,“Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.’”

– Matthew 28:5-6

“Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in spring-time.”

– Martin Luther

“But the other criminal rebuked him.“Don’t you fear god,” he said,“since you are under the same sentence?

We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said,“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him,“Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

– Luke 23:40-43

Highlands

HMMO

Mother’s Morning Out

NORTH STATE ANIMAL & BIRD HOSPITAL

REGISTRATION OPEN

5208 North State Street • Jackson, MS 39206

Tuesdays and Thursdays

601-982-8261 Dr. Adrian Whittington Dr. Jeb Cade Dr. Melissa McLendon OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: Boarding only 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Boarding & Grooming Services Available

46 APRIL 2011 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Highlands Presbyterian Church 9:00 am - 12:00 Noon 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Contact Laura Oliva

601-853-0636

PAGE

AJ’s..........................................................................7 American Heart Association.................................38 Apple Annie’s .......................................................35 Belhaven University ..............................................44 Belhaven Graduate & Online Program................14 Brenda Travis Sitter Service..................................46 Canton Academy..................................................35 Callaway’s Yard & Garden ......................................2 Carr, Riggs, & Ingram, LLC...................................36 Cellular South .........................................................3 Christ Covenant School........................................25 Christmas Village ..................................................25 Clinton Chamber of Commerce.............................7 Dr. Phillip Ley ..........................................................9 Dr. Charles McMasters .........................................39 First Presbyterian Day School ..............................12 Energy Insulation ..................................................43 Environment Masters ...........................................47 Farm Bureau Insurance.........................................25 Fellowship of Christian Athletes ..........................32 Fresh-Way Produce ..............................................12 Gameroom Gallery...............................................40 Gardens of Madison County................................32 Grantham Poole CPAs..........................................10 Greenwood Convention & Visitors Bureau .........29 Habitat for Humanity............................................38 Highland Village ...................................................25 Highlands Mother’s Morning Out........................46 Icing on the Cake .................................................15 Jackson Academy School.......................................2 Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau................12 Jackson Heart .........................................................9 Jackson Orthopaedic Clinic .................................41 Jackson Preparatory School.................................38 Jazzy Dancer.........................................................22 Joel Clark & Sons Jewelry....................................35 Kitchens Outside ..................................................37 Lifeway Christian Stores .......................................10 M&F Bank .............................................................32 Madison Fireplace & Patio...................................10 New Hope Christian School...................................5 New Summit School.............................................41 North State Animal Hospital................................46 O! How Cute Gift Market ....................................12 O’Mire Agency .....................................................22 Odyssey Hospice..................................................10 Persnickety Kitchens.............................................11 Prime Care Nursing..............................................40 Pump It Up ...........................................................21 Runnels Center .....................................................48 Sitters, LLC............................................................21 Smiles by Design ..................................................14 St. Catherine’s Village.............................................4 Star 93.5................................................................31 Stegall Imagery.....................................................33 Summit Counseling ..............................................43 The Eye Group of Mississippi ..............................14 Tinnin Imports.......................................................19 Trustmark Bank .......................................................4 Twin Lakes Camp..................................................47 Venable Glass .......................................................35 William B. Howell .................................................30 Woodridge Capital...............................................16 Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home ......................14 Written in Stone, LLC...........................................15 For more information on our advertisers visit www.metrochristianliving.com

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