April 2012 Metro Christian Living

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contents APRIL 2012

metro ®

columns 13 The Way I See It Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

17 HomeWorks 4 Space-Saving Storage Go-To’s

21 Family Focus How to Avoid a Child Centered Marriage

23 Modern Motherhood Quiet Down, Cobwebs

31 Salt & Light Mission Shutterbug

34 Let’s Get Real Robots and Relationships

37 Outside In

features

18

Duke’s Steakhouse

38 Legal Advice Why Traditional Estate Planning Could Cause You to Wish You Were Dead

In His Steps Ministry changing lives in Canton

24

39 Setting the Record Straight

Grace Bateman Greene CEO of Peru Paper Company

Courageous Titanic Band’s Last Testimony

40 This Is My Story The Cross Became Mine

39

41 Let’s Talk it Over Inspiration for Change

departments

17

29 Food For Thought

32

Strawberry Classics

30 Welcome Home Wilson and Wilson Irrigation

32 Fresh Finds Spring is Coming!

42 Christian Commerce Center Mike Davis with Covenant Care Givers

18

43 Christian Leaders of the Future Event Photo Collage

What’s Coming Next Month?

Celeste Zepponi Singer, songwriter, artist and conference speaker

➺

6 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

in every issue 8 45 46 46

Editor’s Letter Event Calendar Quips & Quotes Ad Directory

Volume 6, Number 11 Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A. Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@metrochristianliving.com Administrative Assistant: Carol Rodgers carol@metrochristianliving.com Art Direction/Graphic Design Sandra K. Goff Graphic Production Assistant Kate Thomas Sales Marilyn Tinnin and Kimberly Stephens Contributing Writers: Lydia Bolen, Amanda Brown, Shawn Dean, Cathy Haynie, Jennifer Heggie, William Howell, Robin O’Bryant, Janie Pillow, Susan E. Richardson, Charles Tinnin, William Richardson, Martin E. Willoughby, Jr. Cover Photo Robby Followell Distribution Assistants: Laura Blackledge, Kim Roberts, Carol Rodgers, Andrea Sabillion, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland, Priscilla Sullivan, Tim Waldon, Bob Whatley

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.

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➺editor’s letter Quenching the Thirst Inside T

Crown Him with many ❝ crowns The lamb upon His throne. Hark how the heavenly music drowns All music but its own. Awake my soul and sing Of Him who died for me And hail Him as thy matchless king Through all eternity…

❞

8 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

here is something inherent in human nature that seeks to worship. Ruins from the earliest ancient empires suggest places of worship and sacrifice. Whether we recognize that proclivity as God’s imprint on our souls realizing that true fulfillment is found in our relationship to Him or whether we fail to connect the dots altogether, we will find an object of worship – even if that sometimes means slipping into some twisted form of idolatry wanting and chasing things that never quench our thirst or give us peace.

Whitney Houston’s recent death brought that thought home to me as I could not get away from the media blitz that kept Whitney’s face in front of me no matter where I clicked for weeks. And then, of course, there was the supermarket checkout line where tabloids and People magazine had a field day with Whitney hype. What a tragic end to a great talent and what a graphic illustration of the world’s failure to satisfy the soul-hunger of man. But oh how we search.

The 17th Century French philosopher Blaise Pascal said it best. “There is a God shaped vacuum in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing, but only by God, the Creator, made known through Jesus.”

And yet, it seems that in this present age, we go to extraordinary extremes trying to fill that vacuum with an endless array of counterfeit idols. I’ve often wondered what would happen overnight in our celebrity American culture should Oprah Winfrey announce that Jesus Christ was now Lord of her life. Can you wrap your mind around that thought?

Worshipping celebrity is certainly nothing new. Back in the Old Testament times when the wayward Israelites continually badgered the prophet Samuel for a king, God finally relented.

This was one big example of “buyer’s remorse,” so to speak, as King Saul turned out to be a disaster.

But then, I find it interesting that when our compassionate and patient God put together His plan for restoration and reconciliation, He sent us a King, THE King, Jesus. I would suppose in recognition of the fact that He was reaching out to an unusually stiff-necked group and His main objective was fellowship and salvation, He chose a symbol they could understand.

I am reading The Only Necessary Thing by Henri Nouwen. It is a compilation of bits and pieces of his work. There is much here about prayer, solitude and connection with the Lord. I hope I can convey his thoughts because they certainly resonated with me. Our soul-longing for connection cannot be met apart from connecting with our creator God. He is the only one with access to our innermost soul. That comforts me, strangely. I like to know there is indeed someone who understands me better than I, at times, understand myself.

But, Nouwen further speaks of the astounding fact that Spirit communicates with Spirit, heart speaks to heart. Therefore, in this noisy hedonistic world, there is some intentionality involved when it comes to pursuing and hearing the Holy Spirit and communion of heartfelt prayer. It takes some time apart from our 24/7 social media and breaking news. This thought is so anti the world in which we live that I want to write INTENTIONAL in red and in all caps across my very life. No wonder we so often live such a shallow existence. The world drowns out the soft sound of His voice, the assurance of His presence and the comfort both bring to our very hungry soul.

As we end this Lenten season and celebrate the blessed resurrection of our Lord, my prayer is that we intentionally turn down the noise of the world and focus with our entire heart, soul and strength on our Risen King, the ONLY one who can possibly quench the thirst in our soul. Y

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

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12 APRIL 2012 â?˜ Metro Christian Living

the way i see it

by MARTIN E. WILLOUGHBY, JR.

Turn Your Eyes Upon

JESUS A

s I stood at the top of the waterslide with my kids, I knew I was in trouble. The River Canyon Run

was one of the fiercest rides in the park and known for its steep curves and fast turns. When it comes to riding rollercoasters and other thrill seeking rides, I am a wimp! While some people would endure long lines for these type adventures, I would just as soon pass on anything that makes me want to “toss my cookies.” However, I needed to “suck it up” this day, so I was quickly assessing how to avoid my usual motion sickness.

I remembered a tip I had heard about keeping my eyes focused on one object versus darting them about. While I had read about this tip in the context of riding in a car, I figured I had nothing to lose. By keeping a laser focus and a tight grip on the handles, I was able to actually enjoy a great day of water sliding with my kids.

As I later reflected on this idea of keeping our eyes focused, I saw the larger application in life. We all have turbulent times that can rock our world. Disease and physical ailments can strike without warning. People in our life can hurt us without provocation. Troubled children can cause parents tremendous grief. A common theme that runs through these type challenges is that the problems are usually beyond our control. I don’t know about you, but I hate being out of control. If there is a problem, just let me know and I am ready to engage! Unfortunately, life does not always work that way.

Sometimes it is not a great problem, but the simple mundaneness of life that can be hard to cope with. It is said that most of life is lived in the valleys, not the mountaintops. As adults, we have responsibilities and mouths to feed. We work, we sleep, we eat, and we do it all over again.

For some this can seem like the Bill Murray movie Groundhog Day where the main character repeated the same day over and over. Whether dealing with the deep difficulties or just the routineness of life, it is easy to turn to our attention to drugs, alcohol, overeating, extramarital affairs, or other ways to try to cope. We live in such an incredible time of opportunity, but the statistics on how we are coping with life tell us a different story. In spite of all of modern conveniences, we still create far too many self-inflicted problems.

I believe that the underlying reason is that a life that is not centered on Christ is a life of great uncertainty and challenge. I don’t believe that a life in Christ is easy or without pain. However, when we focus on Christ, we are anchored and our view of the world changes. I love the hymn Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus which has states, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.“ As I have observed people of great faith over the years, I have found that they actually are highly intentional about making sure they daily have their gaze fixed upon Christ. They live their lives in both the good times and the bad with a blessed assurance of knowing who they are and Whose they are. Perhaps today we can better recognize the distractions that vie for our attention, and fix our eyes on the only real source of comfort and joy in our life— Our Savior! Y Martin E. Willoughby, Jr. is Chief Operating Officer of Butler Snow Advisory Services, LLC located in Ridgeland. He and his wife Nicki have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Madison.

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by CATHY HAYNIE

4

SPACE-SAVING Storage Go-To’s

N

ot having enough storage is a common complaint.

The essential questions are, “What can I get rid of?” and “What space do I have that I am not using?”

When finding hidden storage, use your prepositions: under, over, inside, above, against, on…. today we will look at storage high and low, against the wall, and even some pretty containers that can be used anywhere.

1. Under the Bed Containers.

You might think of this as a place for seldom used winter clothing or an old quilt, but this space is ideal and available for much more. Small children sort their toys easily while sitting on the floor. A boy’s room might have one for blocks, one for cars and trucks, and one for action figures. Another great under the bed storage container is a gift-wrap center. Store extra linens here (free up a linen closet for something else!) or purses and tote bags.

2. Shelving over the doorway.

Hanging shelves over the threshold in the laundry room holds vases; one in a child’s room might be for trophies, dolls, or stuffed animals. Your bedroom might need a spot for books or a pottery collection.

These shelves can be as decorative or functional as desired and offer great extra storage in a tight spot.

3. Against the Wall.

Pegboard is a great storage maker for a wall. Tools in the garage are a given, but what about a place for purses in your closet? Jewelry? In a small apartment

you might hang extra pots and pans on pegboard next to a washing machine. Clear vinyl shoe bags also use wall space (or hang from a closet rod or behind a door) to sort toiletries, winter gloves and scarves and hats, lingerie, craft supplies, and even food items in the pantry. Clipboards might sort paperwork on a wall in an office area. Finally, wall baskets or containers work for sorting bills and more on unused wall space.

4. Containers.

Whether a basket or a jar or an envelope, every container offers you storage. Use baskets under glass top tables to hide extension cords and batteries. A pretty teacup might hold paper clips, while a glass candy jar might be just right for markers. My cousin Amanda has a great planting urn on her desk full of crayons- perfect for her children! Containers can hide away office supplies, toiletries, and craft projects. Need a spot to store them? Why over the doorway, of course!

Regardless of the space you have, remember that organization is not a space problem. Even the smallest of spaces can be organized. I think of organization as a systems problem- not having the right system in place that is easy to use. Take your cues from clutter and see what storage go-to’s will help develop your system. Remember your prepositions! Y Cathy Haynie and her husband, Jack, have three teenagers and live in Madison. Cathy is the Headmaster of Christ Covenant School in Ridgeland. She occasionally speaks to women’s groups on Honoring God in the Home and Balancing Work and Home.

Contact her at chaynie@ccs.ms.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 17

IN HIS STEPS

Carolyn and Jasper Bacon make an effective leadership team.

by MARILYN TINNIN

n His Steps Ministries founder and Executive Director Jasper Bacon takes a holistic approach to serving others. “Holistic means touching every area of

I

man—not just meeting the physical needs for food or clothing or housing—although that is good and as the church we should be doing that for one another. But if we are only meeting physical needs, then that person we are serving is going to come up short unless they develop a relationship with the Lord who made them.”

And from that perspective, Jasper and Carolyn Bacon have poured their time, talent, resources, heart and soul into the young people and the families they are called to serve. God is truly at work all around the 15 acre campus of In His Steps ministries north of Canton. Like so many great and high purposes God plans, this one began as an impossible dream!

Jasper was a freshman playing football at Alabama A&M College in 1976. He came to know Christ through a small Bible study and immediately wanted to answer God’s call to ministry. When he discovered I John 2:6, “He who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk just as he walked,” Jasper knew that the name of this yet-to-be-started ministry would be “In His Steps,” and that it was to be in his hometown of Canton, Mississippi. As eager as some African American men of that day were to get out of Mississippi, Jasper’s desire was to return and to be an instrument of God’s healing grace. One of his first certainties in his new walk with the Lord was that he should attend a Christian school where he could begin the equipping process.

A string of God-ordained “coincidences” resulted in Jasper enrolling at Wheaton College, a small liberal arts college west of Chicago, for his sophomore year. “From the time I began to see God directing my life,” he says, “there seemed to be one miracle after another.”

“All kinds of amazing things happened at Wheaton. God began to burden my heart for racial reconciliation. Most of the students at Wheaton had never been around an African American.” When it came to social life off the 18 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

The older alumni of In His Steps lend a hand to the younger children.

IN HIS STEPS OFFERS • Summer Enrichment programs • After School Programs • Bible Studies • Parenting Classes • Saturday morning reading and science programs • Vacation Bible Schools • Athletic camps • Life Skill Workshops • Long Standing Relationships

football field, Jasper’s teammates did not include him. Initially, their prejudice made him angry and bitter, but as he continued to go to his Bible for encouragement and direction, God truly healed his heart. He knew God was going to use that situation to teach him how to promote change. “If I had not committed my life to it back then, if I had hung on to my bitterness, none of the good things that followed would ever have happened.”

Jasper began to look at his classmates at Wheaton in a different light. He realized that most of them were from affluent backgrounds.

Few of them had ever even met a person who lived in poverty. Instead of resenting them, he

found ways to encourage them and to make them aware of Jesus’ own admonition not to be served but to serve. He won respect and lifelong friendships.

Thirty three years later, some of In His Steps biggest supporters have come through his association with Wheaton. Mission teams from Wheaton have put on vacation Bible schools, basketball camps, repaired homes, and spread the love of Christ in a million ways. The opportunities to serve run both ways. Jasper says, “It’s not just about rich people coming to help poor people but about the body of Christ working together.”

At Wheaton Jasper was also introduced to the concept of “parachurch ministries” for the first time. There was Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Young Life and others. He had never heard of any of them, but he quickly realized that if any community needed something like these, it was Canton! So, he began to study the structure and the operations closely. He had no doubt that here was the model for his future ministry.

Another one of those events that Jasper considers among his Wheaton miracles occurred as he wandered down the hill from Wheaton on a Sunday morning in search of a church service.

He thought he would just try the first church he found. College Church was enormous, but he entered trying not to be intimidated. To his amazement there were dozens of Sunday School classes. He happened to stumble into a classroom filled with age fiftyish couples who welcomed him as the homesick college boy that he was. Over the next weeks and months these adults became his mentors and friends.

They were collectively a wealthy and influential group who happened to be committed Christians and generous stewards. It was through one family in particular that In His

Steps received several hundred thousand dollars to purchase land and to build a 7700 square foot multipurpose facility, a building dedicated in December, 2007. Those friendships which started back in 1977 when Jasper by chance landed in the wrong class have endured over decades now.

When Jasper came back to Canton after graduating from Wheaton, he became minister at Canton Bible Church. His first outreach efforts beyond the church doors were leading Volunteers conduct summer enrichment reading workshops.

Bible studies and speaking about Jesus to incarcerated youth in it is also “caught” through the genuine love and various detention centers. This concern demonstrated by the volunteers and venue quickly became his passion. staff. Carolyn, who oversees the after school Meanwhile his wife Carolyn had program, speaks with enthusiasm about several completed a degree in social work parents who have made huge life changes as a from Jackson State University and result of their children’s experience at In His was working in a state job. They Steps. She believes that changing the mindset were both constantly exposed to the of generations begins with the hearts of the results of dysfunctional families. children.

They realized in situation after The original 16 second graders are now situation, most troubled youth were In His Steps began as an outreach to incarcerated youth. ninth and tenth graders, and the majority of completely unchurched and had no them are still involved in the after school saw the need to reach children before they got stable family foundation. To really produce program. Now, however, they have become the into trouble. In 2002, the after school program lasting change, they needed to reach the parents leaders who mentor the younger children. began. with the gospel and with spiritual principles that Several are now honor roll students. “When Carolyn and Jasper went to the principal at transform character and address life issues. The they came to us in the beginning and we asked Canton Elementary School and asked for the Bacons wanted to embrace the whole challenge them what they wanted to do with their lives, names of 16 second graders who were and they took a leap of faith to do just that. their answers were things like, ‘I want to buy struggling academically and socially. Carolyn Jasper resigned his position as pastor at my own car.’ Today those same kids answer, ‘I laughs when she says, “And we got just what we Canton Bible Church and In His Steps ministry want to be a doctor or I want to be a lawyer.’ asked for—oh my we did!” became his fulltime focus in 1994. Other They have goals and they have dreams and they The S.P.A.S. E. program centers around the churches had an interest in prison ministry and understand there is work involved, but they can spiritual, physical, academic, social and support for In His Steps grew locally. Young have those dreams.” But hands down, the best emotional needs of the students. In order to be men who had never had much direction were thing of all is that these kids know Jesus. In His accepted into the program, the parents of the getting saved and turning their lives around.

Steps “holistic” methods have given these at children have to agree to certain conditions.

What a blessing. risk young people a foundation that can never There is a level of accountability for them, too.

This interventional ministry was flourishing. be shaken.

Every activity at In His Steps begins with God began to move Jasper toward expanding In For more information see www.inhisteps.org prayer and a devotion. The gospel is taught, but His Steps to include something preventive. He or contact Carolyn Bacon at 601 859 5708. Y All attractions, shows, rides and activities are included in the low admission price!

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family focus

by WILLIAM J. RICHARDSON, PH.D.

How to Avoid a Child Centered Marriage

R

ecently I saw an article entitled, “Kid-centricity: Causes and Cures.” I thought the title catchy, but I disliked it for two reasons: 1. It implied that a child-centric home is a disease.

2. It implied that this “malady” has an easy cure.

To be sure child centeredness exists and needs “treatment,” but it’s a natural phenomenon not a disease. Or I should say it’s a natural occurrence that has out-stayed its welcome. Let me explain. We must be child-centric to the little ones we bring home from the hospital. God designed them to be needy and their parents to be “need-meeters.” If we are not assiduously attuned to their cries they will not be feed, cleaned and clothed—they will not survive. However, little by little, over the years they must learn (and we can teach) that not every cry brings the desired result.

Infant’s cries usually require immediate responses. We deploy our “rapid response system” for cries alerting us to, hunger, sleep, wet and soiled diapers, sickness, being too hot or cold, physical pain, etc. At infancy we don’t call rapid responding “child centered,” we call it normal. Our infants cannot understand or articulate their needs. This child-centricity is good, but designed to be outgrown.

Let’s create an example; consider Susie. When she was a baby we responded immediately to her inarticulate alarm cries. Now, she’s five years old and recognizes her specific needs and wants. Let’s be momentarily utopian and imagine she has learned these four things, 1. To make polite requests when help is needed. (“Mom, I‘m hungry. Can I please have a snack?”)

2. To manage the situation herself when appropriate. (Mom says, “There are some cheese-crackers and juice boxes in the pantry.

You can help yourself to one of each,” and Suzie does so.)

3. To deny or delay many of her wants. (At the pantry Susie spies a bag of candy and asks for that, instead. Mom says, “Not now.”

Susie let’s go her hopes for candy and gets the cheese-crackers and juice.)

4. To manage her expression of displeasure when her want has not been realized. (Susie didn’t whine or fuss about the candy refusal.)

Idealistic? Yes. But, this is the growth we hope for. Of course, the example could be drastically different. Susie could have rudely demanded, “Where’s my snack? I’m hungry! She could have thrown a fit about the candy, I don’t want that crummy snack!” When these drastically different

actions occur, we have child-centricity. Now, we spend our energy avoiding explosions by appeasing. Perhaps we calm eruptions by giving in.

If these tactics fail, we explode in anger all forms of child centeredness.

I said above that child centeredness is not a disease. But, child centeredness is a growth problem. It occurs when we and our children have not out grown of our old emergency response systems.

Child centeredness is a growth problem. We are trying to help our children grow toward the four goals listed, above. (The growth I reference is of two kinds, spiritual and behavioral. Both are necessary.

Leading our children to Christ, praying for them and teaching them biblical truth is paramount. Teaching them to walk, talk, use a potty, say please and do homework is also essential.)

To avoid child-centricity we promote growth—we teach. It’s an issue of teaching and learning inward attitudes and outward behaviors. With this realization comes good news and bad news.

GOOD NEWS: There is great hope. If our home-life is too child centered we can teach, and our children can learn different behaviors.

BAD NEWS: Learning takes time, it’s slow.

No need to end on bad news. Despite a lack of formal teacher training, you have done some excellent parenting. You have been an effective teacher. I will prove it. Look at your child’s behaviors that reflect growth in self control and self responsibility in the last year. I guarantee you can find positive changes. Each of these shows growth away from child centricity. You can and will help them grow more in the days to come.

Lastly, there are some very helpful “teacher training” books (I list some of my favorites, below) and some fine Christian counselors available to assist you and me in the sacred task of training up our children in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6).

Dare to Discipline by James Dobson, Living with Children by Gerald Patterson, Loving Obedience by William Richardson, Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp, Systematic Training for Effective Parenting

by Donald DinkMeyer. Y Dr. William J. Richardson is the Clinical Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Counseling Program at Reformed Theological Seminary.

For information on this community resource see www.rts.edu/jackson or call (601) 923.1645.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 21

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by ROBIN O’BRYANT

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modern motherhood

Quiet Down, Cobwebs As we counted down the days of Spring Break this year, I have come to another startling conclusion. My kids outnumber me three to one and it is impossible to clean my house while they are all home. They aren't yet quite old enough to be outside alone and I'm a little flummoxed.

I have attempted to distract them with crafts, movies and a multitude of different activities but it never fails that as I am cleaning one room, at least one of them is destroying another room. My three-year-old, Sadie, has discovered my makeup drawer and with her excellent gross motor skills, has learned how to apply eye shadow and mascara. Her 5-yearold sister is obsessed with anything in a bottle and will not be happy until every single bottle in our house is empty.

This week, I was frustrated, at a crossroads and vented in an email to my friends that my house seemed to get dirtier the more I cleaned. My friend Stacey replied, “Remember the saying, something about‌the dust will wait but your babies won’t!â€? So I made a decision to embrace the mess. I considered getting “The dust will wait but your babies won’t,â€? or “Embrace da Messâ€? tattooed on my body. I was that committed to letting it go.

I quit picking up constantly behind my kids and made everyone pitch in for a few minutes before bedtime. But I was overwhelmed by the clutter. I thought about calling “Hoarders� or “Clean House,� but you could still kick a pathway through the house and I didn’t think I’d have a real chance against those people who have flattened cats under all their boxes of stuff.

The girls had a real sense of pride after completely cleaning the kitchen themselves after dinner this week. After the requisite whining about how unfair life was and what a terrible mother I am, all three girls pitched in to load the dishwasher, clean off the table and wipe down counters and sweep the floors. It was relaxing to spend the evening hanging out with my family instead of cleaning up after them and refreshing, the following morning,

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to walk into a clean kitchen.

It was encouraging and for a second I was extremely glad I hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rushed out to tattoo Staceyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quote on my body. Aside from having to see the tattoo twenty years from now and thinking, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh my word. That is sooo 2012,â&#x20AC;? it turns out the original quote is a bit longer. I mean, I have plenty of room for it, but I would imagine in the next twenty years, there wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be a surface on my body smooth enough to read. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cleaning and scrubbing can wait for tomorrow, for babies grow up, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned, to my sorrow. So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust, go to sleep. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m rocking my baby, and babies donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep.â&#x20AC;? -Author Unknown Y Robin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryant is mother to three daughters, wife to one husband, and debut author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ketchup Is A Vegetable And Other Lies Moms Tell Themselves,â&#x20AC;? available November 2011. She shares the drama and hilarity of motherhood in her syndicated family humor column, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Robinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chicksâ&#x20AC;? and on her blog by the same name. (www.robinschicks.com)

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Trujillo, Peru is a city on the Northwestern coast of Peru. It has a population of almost 1,000,000 people and a median yearly income of less than $8000. There is a high rate of unemployment, but also a great deal of underemployment. A vast number of those under-employed make less than $2000 a year.

24 APRIL 2012 â?&#x2DC; Metro Christian Living

by MARILYN TINNIN • PHOTOS BY ROBBY FOLLOWELL

race Bateman Greene was just seven or eight years old when she viewed a World Vision documentary on television. She could not put the images of starving children and abject poverty out of her mind. If seven year olds can have defining moments, then this was one for Grace. She asked her parents a million questions and eventually persuaded them to sign up through World Vision’s ministry to “adopt” a hungry little girl in India. The Bateman’s continued to support that child with monthly contributions until she was eighteen and graduated out of the World Vision program. “Through that I think God planted some of the seeds in my heart to be interested in poverty and caring that there was poverty around the world,” she says.

In 1998, as a high school senior, Grace went to Peru on her first mission trip with Jackson’s First Presbyterian Church. She fell in love with the Peruvian people, and seemed to absorb a big picture understanding of the culture, the challenges, and the effect poverty had on every aspect of daily life. She had found her passion, and it involved Peru and investing herself in the lives of its people.

Following graduation from Jackson Prep, Grace enrolled at Mississippi College majoring in Spanish and Social Work. In between her freshman and sophomore years, she spent the entire summer in Trujillo, Peru living with a missionary couple. The daily contact with the church community allowed Grace the opportunity to polish her Spanish as well as the opportunity to form lasting friendships with individuals.

During the remainder of her college career, she returned to Peru several times, and with each trip, she came home confident that one day she would return to work fulltime as a missionary. The poverty still

G

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 25

moved her to tears, but she could see that the church was the vehicle of progress. She could see firsthand that the love of Christ in demonstrative action was changing hearts and improving the quality of life for many.

When Grace graduated from MC in 2004, she accepted a position with Peru Mission teaching English back in Trujillo. Although teaching English paid the bills, she spent many a volunteer hour doing what she loved most - working with the Peruvian ladies in the local Presbyterian church. There were weekly fellowship gatherings where there might be a Bible study followed by either an art project or a cooking class. It was nurture as well as outreach.

The ladies, though they had received very little formal education were incredibly creative. At that point, Grace had no inkling of helping start a business. She had learned a little about economic development in poverty stricken areas back in college, but she did not see herself as a CEO or an entrepreneur. She had never considered herself to have one iota of business acumen in her DNA. “But God’s plans are always so much grander than ours!” she laughs.

Through a British missionary who was working in Trujillo that 26 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

summer, Grace learned the art of making recycled paper. She thought this would be a fun craft project for the ladies. She took her own money and bought scissors, glue and supplies and suggested that they create greeting cards to sell to visiting mission teams. The first hundred cards were snapped up immediately and the ladies were extremely proud that they had made a little money. They were eager to do it again, and so they took part of their proceeds, replenished their supplies, and continued to get together from time to time and make more cards.

This accidental cottage industry Grace and her Peruvian friends had literally stumbled upon was obviously straight from the hands of God to their hands. With the money the cards generated, the ladies were able to buy necessities for their families. They were able to take care of their children while working and the sense of worth attached to creativity and purpose gave them a self confidence they had never experienced.

One of the artisans Azucena Aguirre is a mother of three whose life changed radically when the paper project began. She had relied on peddling candy by the side of the road several times a week in order to provide food for her children. The children had to accompany their mother since she had no one to watch them while she worked. She made more money in a day making cards than she could make in several weeks selling candy, and the best thing about it was that she did not have to take her children out in the streets with her.

Another of the ladies is Deisy Pretell. She has been able to replace the dirt floors in her home with new tile and to buy modern appliances for her kitchen. Now she is saving for her sons’ education. Such dreams were impossible dreams before Peru Paper!

Twenty-three-year old Grace did not know exactly what she was going to do the realization of the impact this new found skill was having

THE PERU PAPER TRAIL The Art and Science Behind Peru Paper Greeting Cards The women sort through discarded scrap paper and salvage recyclable pieces. The women have become experts in locating “raw material.” Many Peru Paper greeting cards began life as church bulletins.

The paper is torn by hand into tiny pieces, then soaked in water for several days to create a pulp. The pulp is processed in a blender to ensure it is completely liquefied.

The women add dye made from food coloring, flower petals, and even coffee beans to give the pulp unique textures, colors, and scents.

The pulp is drained through a screen and spread on fabric to dry, Some pieces are dried in the sun, others in the shade, which leads to variations in the final color of the paper.

on her friends’ lives, but her next step, upon returning to the United States in 2005, was to enroll in an online economic development course through Covenant College’s Chalmers Institute. That was a certificate course, and although it was helpful, when the course ended, Grace was eager to go further. The thought of more schooling did not dampen her enthusiasm for whatever God had in mind. So she headed off to Southern New Hampshire University to earn a master’s degree in International Community Economic Development. Her studies there were very practical and specific to working in impoverished areas. This was an exciting time—an adventure that God was directing and Grace was stepping into by faith. She continued to promote the cards in her spare time and to make a few trips to Peru. She always returned with a suitcase of cards and found they were easy to sell.

“I saw how well the cards were doing with very little effort,” Grace says. “I realized what the ladies most needed was market access. They had no way to sell the cards on their own. How could I not NOT do this? I just knew that whatever the capacity - this was what I wanted to do—whether the Lord would have me be in Peru long term or here connected to them, I knew it was going to happen. I knew that I was called to this and I felt gifted and passionate about it.”

In 2008 the Peru Paper Company was officially begun as an LLC. Its

Once dry, the paper is peeled from the fabric and is ready for use. It takes approximately two hours, not including soaking or drying time, to make five pounds—36 sheets—of paper.

The women cut the paper into various shapes and sizes, then meticulously glue individual pieces together to create a oneof-a-kind greeting card. While the women use patterns to ensure some uniformity in the finished pieces, each card is unique. A single woman can create between 20 and 50 cards per day depending upon the complexity of the design and how many hours per day she devotes to her work.

The women fold the cards and package them, along with matching envelopes, in a plastic sleeve.

The cards are shipped to Grace Bateman Green, who sells the cards online and to retailers throughout the United States and in Canada and Australia.

Used by permission from The Beacon of Mississippi College, Summer 2011

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website began to sell online in 2009. By this time, Grace had become a seasoned expert on the ins and outs of the import business and the rules of law. There was, as you would expect, red tape here and there, but little by little Grace learned to navigate the issues as they arose.

Grace can laugh over the on-the-job training she received as the CEO of an international company. There were some tense moments in the learning curve. Grace can, however, testify to the truth of the adage, “If God calls you to it, He’ll get you through it.” Well, maybe it’s more like I Thessalonians 5:24 that says, “The One who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”

The Peruvian ladies are independent contractors who sell their products now to Grace, who in turn sells the wares to different retail outlets. The paper is sold widely across the Southeast, but there are also some retailers in New York City, Canada, and Australia. Grace goes to markets and trade shows all over. The cards literally sell themselves as they are unique and quite beautiful. They are quite suitable for framing, too. The story behind them is always a conversation starter.

Danny Hernandez, a Presbyterian pastor’s wife in Trujillo, manages the operations in Peru. She and Grace keep in touch daily with e-mail or Skype. There is an assembly process to the cards. with 16 ladies employed at the present time. They work in groups with specific tasks.

Some actually create and dye the paper, a several day process that takes patience and skill. Others design the cards and create the patterns that others follow as they cut and paste. Others do the lettering and still another matches the finished cards with envelopes and packages them in cellophane sleeves. The cards are then shipped to Grace in Mississippi.

The ties that bind Grace with her friends in Peru run very deep.

Every few weeks, Danny will invite the other ladies to her home for a Skype visit with Grace. It is just that—something like a visit over the kitchen table with a dear friend and a cup of coffee. The conversation does not always get around to business. Everyone wants to catch up on each other’s life. “How are you and what’s going on?” is the first topic of conversation.

What does the future look like for the Peru Paper Company? Grace beams. “I think it will continue to grow. Each year since its beginning, we’ve had more sales than the year before. Our online store opened in the worst part of the recession, and we’ve been able to grow it. We continue to build our client base, continue to get new products and just continue to get the word out of what we are trying to do. I know word spreads because people will read about it or someone will send them one of our cards and they’ll see it and want to order some, too.”

Peru Paper does seem to travel. The company has taken some impressive custom orders in the past three years. They were included in goodie bags presented to celebrities at the Academy Awards, the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the Emmy Awards!

Hearing Grace’s story and seeing the light in her eyes and the excitement in her voice—I can only imagine what that evening years ago must have been like when a little girl with a very tender and open heart saw the World Vision documentary that launched her path in life.

She was indeed called to this. As she has blessed, she would be the first to proclaim that she has received so much more than she has given.

“If you had asked my mom even before I took that first trip to Peru, she would have said, ‘yes, Grace is going to be a missionary,’ and I would have loved that. I never thought I would be a missionary in this way. I never thought that being back home God would give me a way to be a missionary in Peru as well as a missionary in the United States telling the story. “ Grace is a frequent guest speaker. You can contact her through www.PeruPaper.com. Y

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

– John 4:34

food for thought

by LYDIA BOLEN

Strawberry Classics trawberries are one of the brightest, sweetest flavors of spring.

S

Be sure and take advantage of these tasty berries while they are in peak season. I enjoy exploring old family recipes. This classic recipe for Strawberry Satin Pie is a special one from my friend’s mother-in-law, Margaret Smith. It will be a guaranteed hit at your next party, shower, or dinner for your family. Strawberry scones are fun and quick to make. There are many different variations of scones, and fresh strawberry scones are definitely a delicious way to enjoy these seasonal berry favorites. A strawberry trifle is beautiful! Plump red berries, angel food cake cubes, and a pudding mixture layered in a clear bowl make this a memorable company dessert. Enjoy strawberry time while they are at their best.

STRAWBERRY SATIN PIE 1 baked 9-inch pastry shell 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted Creamy Satin filling (recipe follows) 3 cups fresh strawberries 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup sugar 2 teaspoons cornstarch Few drops red food coloring Whipped cream, whipped

STRAWBERRY SCONES 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus 1 to 2 teaspoons for flouring work surface 1/4 cup sugar plus 1 tablespoon for sprinkling on top 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons unsalted cold butter, cut into cubes 1 cup chopped strawberries 3/4 cup strawberry Greek yogurt Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda in a bowl. Add butter, using your hands, work until mixture resembles course crumbs.

Stir in strawberries and yogurt to hold dough together. Do not overmix.

Turn dough onto floured surface and with floured hands, knead 2 to 3 times. Gently press dough into a 9-inch round. Cut into 8 wedges.

Arrange wedges on a parchment paper covered cookie sheet. Sprinkle each wedge with extra sugar. Bake until golden, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove to wire rack to cool.

STRAWBERRY TRIFLE 1 cup cold milk 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix 1 teaspoon grated orange peel 2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped 8 cups cubed angel food cake 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries In a large bowl, beat the milk, sour cream, pudding mix and orange peel on low speed until thickened. Fold in whipped cream.

Place half of the cake cubes in a 3-quart glass bowl. Arrange a third of the strawberries around sides of bowl and over cake; top with half of the pudding mixture. Repeat layers once. Top with remaining berries. Refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Yield: 8-10 servings.

Remember to make memories through the kitchen… “the heartbeat of the home” Go to my blog at lydiasapron.blogspot.com for more recipes, or email me at lbbolen@gmail for any questions.

Cover bottom of cooled cooked pastry shell with almonds. Fill with chilled Creamy Satin filling. Slice 2 and one-half cups of the strawberries in half, reserving a few perfect whole berries for center. Arrange berries atop filling.

GLAZE:Crush

remaining one half cup strawberries; add the water and cook 2 minutes; sieve. Mix the sugar and cornstarch; gradually stir in berry juice. Cook and stir till thick and clear. Tint red with a few drops food coloring. Cool slightly. Spoon over strawberries. Refrigerate. Top with whipped cream and the reserved whole berries.

CREAMY SATIN FILLING

1/2 3 3 1/2 2 1 1/2 1

cup sugar tablespoons cornstarch tablespoons all-purpose flour teaspoon salt cups milk slightly beaten egg cup whipping cream, whipped teaspoon vanilla

Combine sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt.

Gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Lower heat; cook and stir till thick.

Stir a little of the hot mixture into egg; return to remaining hot mixture. Bring just to a boil, stirring constantly. Cool, then chill. Beat well.

Fold in whipped cream and vanilla. Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 29

➺welcome home

by MARILYN TINNIN

Enhancing Your Outside Space

F

or most of us, our homes are our number one material investment. Even in this economy, most people still consider owning a home a major chunk of the American dream. For

women, especially, putting the little extras here and there around our “nest” is one of the ways we strive to create the kind of home that our families love to come home to. And the welcome begins the first minute one turns down the street and the familiar sight of that house—our home—comes into view.

Whether you are counting the costs of building your dream place or staying put in the home where you have raised your children and built a lifetime of memories, treat your home and yard well. It is a reflection and a repository of your family’s journey.

Landscaping is a major expense in building your home’s curb appeal. It Phil and Taylor Wilson makes sense to protect that investment.

Irrigation systems used to be one of those ‘bells and whistles” that only commercial properties or very large and expensive homes could afford.

In recent years, however, more and more homeowners in modest settings are finding an irrigation system to be worth every penny. They have become quite reasonable in cost and are one of those improvements that tend to pay for themselves over time.

I visited with Phil Wilson of Wilson and Wilson Irrigation on Lakeland Drive in Jackson and got a crash course in the ins and outs of a good system. Phil’s career in the irrigation business began over thirty years ago when, at 15, he took a summer job at $1.60 an hour with Mr. O.T. McClure of McClure Irrigation. He became the son Mr. McClure never had and was the heir apparent to the business when Mr. McClure decided to retire. He literally learned about irrigation from the down and dirty sweaty “how to” of firsthand experience. Today Phil and his son Taylor run the company together.

I noticed on-line that there are a number of “do-it-yourself” sites.

Unless you have experience in laying a system, it doesn’t make much sense to go that route! As Phil explained, installing a system means digging trenches, running everything underground. If you make an error

30 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

in a connection or construct an awkward angle and the system fails to operate correctly, there is no way to know where your problem is— unless you dig the whole thing up again.

There are a world of options out there in putting in an irrigation system and allowing a professional to program it for you. The timers are set for various “zones” in your yard making sure that the watering is prescriptive—exactly the right amount at exactly the right time for a specific area’s plants and need. Established shrubbery and trees, especially those close to the house, do not need daily watering, but they do need sufficient deep watering periodically. Because their root balls are deep, light watering around the tops is really not providing any benefit and may, in fact, compromise the area around the base of your home by putting too much moisture near your foundation. What a great invitation to termites.

Wilson and Wilson provides free estimates and likes to listen to the customer and tailor the system to the need. There is not a one-size-fits-all answer to your lawn and flower bed needs. Some customers want to irrigate only the grassy areas preferring to haul the hose or sprinkler around to their beds. That works, too. A consultation and free estimate will result in a custom plan that works for you, and, best of all, makes your plants flourish.

Another way to enhance the curb appeal of your home is to consider landscape lighting. Phil has seen a big increase in this trend in recent years. It is amazing how lighting can create a dramatic effect accenting or up lighting a River Birch, a Crepe Myrtle, or a walk way at night. Aside from the safety issue that affects both your family and any guests coming and going after dark, lighting can make a warm and welcoming statement for any home, regardless of its modesty or it grandeur.

Check out www.wilsonandwilsonirrigation.com and you can even request a quote online. There is a wealth of information on a variety of services. Definitely worth your while. Y

salt & light

by MARILYN TINNIN

Mission SHUTTERBUG Mission Shutterbug…Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. – I Peter 4:9 Editor’s note: One of the best things about sitting in my chair is hearing from time to time about something good that came from a story we covered. The following is a recent example of what is a frequent occurrence for us. We couldn’t help sharing.

T

he July 2011 Metro Christian Living magazine featured several local Christian artists who show their work in local galleries. Photographer David Adams of Jackson was among them, and his interview revealed a big heart that made a soulful connection between God’s handiwork and capturing an image that spoke louder than words. It caught the attention of Laura Beasley, the Director of Children’s Education at Mission First, a multi-faceted ministry of First Baptist Church. Located on Roseneath Street in the heart of an area of abundant need, Mission First is a vibrant beacon of hope to the entire neighborhood. In the past ten years, the ministry has addressed countless challenges bringing the love of Christ and real solutions to every aspect of life for those it serves.

Laura is always on the lookout for ways to enrich the lives of the children in the after school program.

Exposing them to enrichment opportunities is one of her creative tasks. When she contacted David this past month asking him if by chance he had any interest at all in teaching a short course on photography for the elementary kids, the answer came back as an enthusiastic “YES!” Kids, Cameras and Jesus—his passions.

Laura explained that so many urban children like those at Mission First see only one positive way out of the poverty that is around them.

That would be athletics and a talent of Michael Jordan magnitude. One of her goals with the after school program is to show them there are limitless options available and that God gifts his children in a variety of ways.

So Project Shutterbug is born! Who knows if there is another Ansel Adams just waiting to be discovered!

Deville Camera has agreed to help out by donating two digital “point and shoot” cameras and to sell the others required at cost. Total cost of the camera, the digital card and digital card reader will be about 100 dollars. The plan is to make this a reoccurring opportunity.

Brown’s Fine Art has agreed to host an art show with pictures taken by the kids at a date to later be determined. Y If you or your group would like to donate to the Project Shutterbug, please contact Laura Beasley at 601.608.0043 or beasley@missionfirst.org

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 31

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➺let’s get real

by JANIE PILLOW

Robots and Relationships

T

he general theme of this issue of MCL is inspiring stories that have changed lives. I am

taking a little different slant and saying that everyone you come in contact with or have a relationship with has the potential to change your life. It can be for the positive, making you become more human. Or it can be for the negative, diminishing your humanity, if only in a small way.

We frequently see news reports announcing that robots are coming.

Little by little robot are beginning to look, behave and talk like people.

Yet, no matter how much the y imitate humans, they will never be human. One reason is that God created his image to have personal relationships and he gave us the fuel for deep relations in our emotions.

Robots will never be human, but have you noticed that people can become a lot like robots? For a variety of reasons, many of us have learned how to turn off our feelings, to limit the range of emotions that we acknowledge and express in order to feel less vulnerable. The less we feel, the less we hurt. I have some clients whose primary emotions expressed are anger and lust (sex, power, material things). Obviously, they find it impossible to deepen relationships with others.

Jesus drew attention to the importance of emotions and relationships when he taught his disciples about the two greatest commandments in

34 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

the Old Testament. He said that the greatest moral imperative is “Love the Lord your God with all your heart (Deut. 6:5). He also said that the second and greatest moral imperative is “Love your neighbor as yourself.

(Mt. 22:39) These two commandments have at least two elements in common relationships and emotions. Both Jesus and the Old Testament passages he quoted indicated that the emotion of love is the wellspring of relationships.

When I was in seminary I took a class by J.I. Packard on the Puritans.

Dr. Packard often quoted from the Puritans: “The emotions fuel the will.”

We have to be careful here because modern people often have truncated ideas of what love is. Books, poems, movies define love in various ways. All seem to fall short. We tend to associate it with positive emotions like gentleness, kindness and tenderness. And we are correct.

But in the Bible loving relationships also include negative emotions like doubt, disappointment, frustration and anger. Loving relationships with God and others draw their life from a very wide range of emotions.

Often in therapy I give couples a page of hundreds of emotional words. They are in columns labeled positive, negative and others. Usually, when couples come into therapy, they have started focusing only on

negative emotions toward each other. I often ask them to take an index card and keep a record of all the positive things they say to their partner until our meeting the next week. I also tell them that the positive should out weigh the negative by eighty percent. What most of these couples have lost is the range of emotions and the exercise is to show them that they see their partner in a negative light only, and this makes them think they no longer care for the partner or just fight and stay angry all the time.

We can see the breadth of emotions that fuels relationships with God in the Psalms.The Psalms express the joy and wonder we often feel toward God. But the Psalms also express the disappointments and frustrations we often feel towards God. Why did God allow His inspired word to include such a wide range of emotions? It is because God does not want a paper-thin, superficial relationship with you and me. He wants us to love him with all our heart. He wants us to present our whole selves in devotion to him.

Human relations are treated similarly in the Scriptures. Think, for instance about the relationships Jesus had. We know that Jesus was not the best of friend of everyone around him. So, don’t worry that you have deeper connections with some people than others. Or that there are people that you feel negative towards as Jesus did the Pharisees.

Now think about the intimate friendships Jesus had with the inner circle of his disciples, those he called “my family.” He praised and encouraged them (Mt.26). Often he listened sympathetically (Luke 9:18; Mt 18:1)) and he rebuked them (Luke 9:46; Mt 8:26). He freely expressed his frustration and disappointment with them (Mt 26:45). That is the way it is in intimate human relationships. People simply cannot love deeply without being able to express a wide range of emotions to each other. Often in a session, I will tell my clients that conflict, done properly, is a wonderful intimacy. When ones passion is up they often tell how they really feel. It can be a learning experience about how the other feels if they do not express it in a way that diminishes the identity of themselves or their partner.

Compare your relationships with the connections Jesus had with his inner circle. Ask yourself these kinds of questions: How free do you feel to reveal your sincere emotions, no matter how negative or positive?

What range of attitudes can you accept from the other? The depth of love you experience with others will depend on the depth to which you reveal your hearts to each other.

In session I call this the “cupped hands idea.” I ask them to cup their hands. I say, now that IS your relationship. If there are problems or conflicts that come up we are to work out our problems in the

CONTEXT of a relationship. I say its not, “you please me, and the hands stay cupped.” You displease me, the hands quickly separate. NO the hands are to stay cupped. I confess to them that when I could tell my husband had a negative thing to say to me, I would say, “OK. I need to hear you say you deeply love me. Then, I can hear what you have to say as coming from someone that loves me, not an enemy. “ A word of caution. Learning how to express a fuller range of emotions with God and others is a process. Opening our hearts to God and people can be as harmful as helpful, as destructive as fruitful. That’s why the scriptures gives us so much instructions about human emotions. We need Gods help and the help of people to learn how to deepen our relationships. I have this little list of things that I encourage people to learn to do. They are epigenetic (that means when you can do the first it enables you to do the next.) The very first one is: Be willing to be misunderstood and be willing to believe that perhaps you have misunderstood the other person. Then ask questions to clarify the communication exchange. But we will never be perfectly understood by any person, only GOD. But we can apprehend a better understanding of the other person. When we understand often the negative feelings dissipate. I often say to people, I understand and can see why you feel like you feel. However, I disagree, but I respect your opinion.

But be sure of this? The more you live like a robot and are not willing to take chances in relationships, the more we become like a robot. In other words, the more you diminish emotions in your life or the life of someone else, the more you will live without personal relationships. I often tell my clients there is no such thing as false vulnerability; we will always feel some tension when we open ourselves up to another. One thing we do in therapy is we learn to “sit with this” tension. I tell my clients, tension causes growth and growth causes tension.” But remember to communicate without diminishing the image of God in yourself or the image of God in another person.

Don’t say, “Well, you’ve done it again.” Rather, say, “I’ve got something to say that may be hard for you to hear. Are you willing to hear me?” God made you and me with spectacular array of feelings.

They are gifts from God that makes us more human with honesty in intimate relations with God and others Y Janie Pillow is in private practice at Janie Pillow Counseling (601- 853-4788) She is also Co-founder of Third Millennium Ministries and has served since its inception as Chairman of the Board. (See www.ThirdMill.Org. “Seminary Education for the World for Free.”)

metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 35

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outside in

by SHAWN DEAN

Duke’s Steakhouse If you want a good steak, go to Duke’s. If you want some revelation, try Pelahatchie. Duke’s is just east of downtown Pelahatchie on your left. A friend of mine recommended it and since I was in Pelahatchie at the famous Yogi Bear Campground, my wife, Laura Beth, and I took a stab at it. It didn’t disappoint and the ambiance had Pelahatchie influence for sure.

Just out of curiosity I wanted to know if there were any famous people from Pelahatchie. Btw, I love Wickipedia. What I found was this. There wasn’t one single solitary famous person listed. There wasn’t a writer, politician, physician, musician, actor, model, military figure, artist, athlete or even supercentenarian for that matter. That’s an old person. I had to look it up.

Before you start wondering why I’m pounding on Pelahatchie let me say this. I’ve met and did meet some great people in Pelahatchie. I even bought a horse in Pelahatchie from some real cowboys. However, the horse threw my daughter, Isabelle, and took off running with Claire, Isabelle’s friend, so we gave it away. It was supposed to be dead broke, but that’s another story. While I was there I gave a ride to a kid named Skyler who just got out of jail, but he seemed like a real nice kid. There is a real cool Methodist church campground that dates back to the 1800’s that was established by some settlers from South Carolina. So, I’m not down on Pelahatchie, mind you.

We drove through parts of Pelahatchie and like most small towns I drive through, the same thought flashes through my mind again and again: What are these people doing here and what do they do for a living? Like Ms. Hannigan said in Annie, “Why anyone would want to be an orphan is beyond me.” Well, the thought crossed my mind, “Why anyone would want to live in Pelahatchie is beyond me.” While in the midst of that contemplation I had a eureka! moment, but I need to preface it first.

That very day I was meditating on this topic of the need I have to become a righteous sojourner with a view toward eternity.

If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone also who practices righteousness is born of Him (1 John 2:29).

“The righteous man shall live by faith” (Galatians 3:11).

“For we are sojourners before You, and tenants, as all our fathers were; our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no hope” (1 Chronicles 29:15).

So, it came to me. What difference does it make, eternally speaking,

where someone lives or what they have or don’t have? Conceptually, it’s the same as prayer. Every person should and does have the same opportunity to be like Christ, to be righteous and to pray. His primary interest in me is the development of righteousness, not my occupation or where I live. It’s what I do with where I live and what I do with what I have that’s being weighed.

For me to consider that somehow a man living in Pelahatchie is deficient or void of the necessities of life is foolishness. In fact, God most certainly could have been doing a man a favor by having him live in Pelahatchie, if by him moving there increases the likelihood that he grows more intimate with Christ, lives a righteous life there. Take that same man and put him New York City and it might not be so good for him.

Is it far fetched to say that God allowed Joseph to go to jail so that he could minister to the people there and grow in intimacy and righteousness with Christ while fixed in a place with fewer things to do?

Does anyone have any idea exactly what city Enoch lived in or what his occupation was? All it says of him in Genesis is, “Enoch walked with God three hundred and sixty-five years….then Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him.”

Enoch walked with God three hundred and sixty five years! That’s one year for every day of the year. Amazing. He’s listed in Hebrews as a mighty man of faith. It doesn’t give his profession, his net worth or what steakhouse he frequented. We all know that history can be whatever a man with a pencil wants it to be. So, since Pelahatchie doesn’t have a hero, I’m going to give them one. Enoch was born, reared and ascended in Pelahatchie. He started the famous Duke’s Steakhouse and he was responsible for bringing those Godly sojourners, his cousins, down here from South Carolina. That’s right. Enoch was Methodist and Skyler doesn’t know it, but he’s one of Enoch’s descendants which makes him Methodist too.

My ignorance fascinates me. My pompous behavior doesn’t. On this day, I was loving me some Pelahatchie.

So, most importantly, eat at Duke’s Steakhouse. It just might change your life. Y Shawn Dean is Regional Sales Manager for Airflo Sales, Inc., located in Ridgeland, MS. He and his wife Laura Beth have three children, Isabelle, Ann Mabry and Mary Frances and live in Madison.

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➺legal advice

by WILLIAM B. HOWELL

Why Traditional Estate Planning If Not Enough

W

ith thanks to my colleague Alice Reiter Feld who reminded me recently that, to put it mildly...the world ain't what it used to be! The times they are a' changin' so fast that it's hard to keep up.

One thing that hasn't changed much, though, is estate planning. Long-term care and Medicaid planning are just not included in most existing estate plans. And that's a shame. Because AARP statistics show that 75% of people over 65 will need long-term care or Medicaid.

Unfortunately, many attorneys—perhaps because their clients press them for a "quick, simple" plan—still don't include these items in the plans they devise. As a result, their clients aren't thoroughly prepared for all of life's eventualities as they age. And when these clients realize it, the shock may be devastating—to their health as well as to their estates.

Most of us don't like to think about our eventual demise, so we want to keep the visit with the attorney brief. As a result, the document we receive is often pretty much the same one every other client receives, with some minor modifications.

But...IT'S YOUR LIFE! You don't want

someone else's plan with slight modifications!

You want your own plan. And you don't want a plan that cannot change as your personal and family circumstances change!

In an ironic twist, we're living longer...but, as a result, spending more time in nursing homes and long-term care facilities than any previous generation. But—if you're like most people— your estate planning documents weren't drawn up any differently than those of the earlier generations.

And if that's the case, you—and your estate— are in some serious trouble! Are you willing to lose your life savings...and your family's inheritance?

"Too many people are complacent—and misinformed—about the need for proper estate and long-term care planning."

There, I've said it. I say it every day, in fact.

Because I see it every day! As an Elder Law attorney, I've witnessed first-hand how inaction, or inadequate planning, can result in devastation for seniors and their families. In fact, some of the things I've seen are genuine horror stories. To name a few: Being secretive with family about your assets, and avoiding discussion of possible

long-term care issues; Not coordinating beneficiary designations with the desires expressed in the will; Relying on outdated or inadequate documents—especially durable powers of attorney and advance health care directives (with HIPAA); Naming the wrong person to make decisions; Not understanding the rules for Medicaid benefits, and how to use them for long-term care -a cause-and-effect that can result in total impoverishment.

Most distressing, to me, is the family that fails to prepare for long-term care issues, and finds itself in a crisis situation that could have been avoided. Another horror story involves a client who spent down hundreds of thousands of dollars to get her mother eligible for nursinghome care—unnecessarily!

If you could see what I see every day, you'd know the truth of that old axiom: If you're failing to plan, you're planning to fail. (And in an area, I might add, in which you probably can't afford to fail!) Y William B. Howell is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and practices law in Ridgeland.

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.

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setting the record straight

by CHARLES TINNIN

Courageous Titanic Band’s Last Testimony Editor’s Note: April 14, 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the “unsinkable” Titanic. Legends abound about the final minutes on board as the crew members faced the end. …And the band played on.

Four days out from Southampton bound for New York on her maiden voyage all systems were running smoothly thanks to years of planning by the White Star Line. For the RMS Titanic, the world’s largest, most luxurious ocean liner, they had recruited the finest officers, chefs, engineers and entertainers with no aspect of staff involvement overlooked.

Captain Edward John Smith, the highest ranking White Star captain, had been reassigned from sister ship Olympic to shepherd the Titanic on the crossing after which he planned to retire. Slightly over 1,300 passengers were on board plus about 900 crew including 324 passengers who paid $4,700 for first class accommodations, a healthy equivalent of about $52,000 in today’s currency.

One staff choice which may have seemed insignificant at the time was the selection of Bandmaster Wallace Hartley, age 34, the son of a Methodist choirmaster in Colne, England. Hartley had been bandmaster on the Mauritania of the Cunard Line and accepted the Titanic job because he thought it would give him prestigious connections for future work. He had recently become engaged to be married and this was believed to be his last shipboard job before settling down in England.

A veritable honor roll of celebrities made the trip including reputably the world’s richest man John Jacob Astor IV and his wife Madeline, owner of Macy’s Isidor Straus and his wife Ida, industrialist Benjamin Guggenheim, Denver millionaire Margaret “Molly” Brown who would become known as “unsinkable” in the coming weeks, fashion designer Lady Duff Gordon. Also making the trip was Thomas Andrews, of Harland and Wolff of Belfast, the firm which built the Titanic and J. Bruce Ismay, White Star’s managing director. Titanic’s owner J.P Morgan was to be on board but cancelled at the last minute.

After brief stops in Cherbourg, France and Queensland, Ireland to pick up passengers the Titanic began its assault on the Atlantic crossing speed record. When passengers retired for bed on the night of April 14, 1912 seas were smooth and calm, the Titanic gliding under a moonless sky that was saturated with stars in the chilly 32 degree air.

Despite numerous ice warnings by radio from other ships, the Titanic was clipping along at 22.5 knots.

At 11:40 pm a shudder flowed through the 882 ft long ship, what one survivor described as a “slight bump, a little jar nothing at all.” In less than a half hour Captain Smith gave the order to “lower the lifeboats and stand by” as a precaution.

Although they had just finished their night’s work, Hartley assembled all eight musicians on deck in an effort to calm the passengers and began playing around 12:15. Hartley’s hometown

newspaper, the Colne and Nelson Times, quoted former band mates the following week saying “Wallace Hartley put into practice a resolution he had expressed that if ever disaster overtook the ship on what he was aboard, he would stick to his violin and play the him he loved, ‘Nearer My God to Thee.’ ” The first lifeboat was lowered thirty minutes later with one father remaining on the ship telling his family that they would be back on board in time for breakfast. The distance from the lifeboat deck to sea level was 70 to 80 feet which frightened many who felt it safer to remain on the Titanic still believing it to be unsinkable. One survivor said “You can smell ice. I knew it; there was a keenness in the air. You could hardly see the water. People didn’t want to get in.”

Recent revisionist historians have written that the band was playing ragtime on deck instead of “Nearer My God to Thee” so Rev. Brister Ware, Minister of Pastoral Care at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson and a ship and train enthusiast investigated.

Although they had just finished their night’s work, Hartley assembled all eight musicians on deck in an effort to calm the passengers.

Rev. Ware and his wife Marian visited Fairview Lawn Cemetery in Halifax, Nova Scotia where over one hundred victims of the Titanic are buried. As the largest city near the disaster site, it was here that the CS Mackay-Bennett rescue ship brought the bodies of victims still in their life vests, many of whom died not of drowning but of hypothermia in the 28 degree water.

They found several tombstones engraved with lines from the hymn which confirms the New York Times story of April 19, 1912 quoting survivor Vera Dick as she looked back at the titanic from her lifeboat.

“We could hear the band playing ‘Nearer My God to Thee’ and could see the men standing on deck absolutely quiet and waiting for the end.”

English publisher W. T Stead, who went down with the ship and was thought to be in line to receive the Nobel Peace Prize later that year, may have also suggested the hymn according to the New York Times story of April 20, 1912. Considered to be King Edward’s favorite hymn, Stead had published “Nearer My God to Thee” in a book titled “Hymns That Have Helped” before departing.

Several survivors commented that the band continued to play until water was up to their knees as the Titanic went down as 2:20 am on April 15 one hundred years ago. Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 39

➺this is my story

by AMANDA BROWN

The CROSS Became Mine ike many born-and-bred Southerners, and habits remained, but that still small voice I grew up going to Sunday School and continued to beckon. Perhaps you know this church faithfully and attended youth conflict, and it equals torment. group, Bible Studies, and Christian summer I did not have the maturity at the time to camps. I was privileged to be a part of many realize that nearly 20 years of doing life apart quality Christian communities over the years. from God would take some time to recover The message of salvation was presented every from. Trust me, I am just days away from single week at my home church, and as a 9-year- turning 37, and God is still constantly working to old, I prayed a prayer of salvation at Twin Lakes “restore what the locusts have eaten.” (Joel 2:25) Camp. Perhaps you share a similar spiritual He sticks with us like that. Remember, he said, history, and perhaps you share the similar story of “Never will I leave you or forsake you.” (Joshua your faith remaining dormant for years to 1:5) And just to be perfectly clear…my come…after your salvation experience. My story. tendency is still to do life on my own. Perhaps I foolishly believed that other believers in my yours is, too. midst had it all together and that I was a huge As we celebrate Easter, I am reminded that disappointment to Jesus. Christianity simply Jesus’ death on the Cross is not became a nice, socially acceptable merely a one-time event that addition to my real life ensures my entrance into heaven, lived very separate but it is a daily, gracefrom Him. And filled offering of even though I freedom and new life. occasionally read the I Corinthians 1:18 God does not save Bible and faithfully says that “the message us and then say, “Now attended Christianof the Cross to us y events, there was who are being saved go do your best and little to no real is the power of give it all ya got!” impact on my dayGod.” Jesus took on to-day living. I all our sin and shame suffered silently as if it were his, under the heavy received the blanket of guilt because punishment that we I could not “stick with it” for longer than a deserve, died in our place, and made us fully few days at a time. Perhaps you can relate. clean and acceptable before the Father. I am Fast forward to young adulthood. A young keenly aware of my daily, desperate need for this woman knocked on the door of my sorority “message of the Cross.” house one day, and I happened to answer the I don’t know about you, but what a relief the door. A friendship began that God used to “message of the Cross” is to me! No wonder I change my life forever. We began to meet struggled so intensely trying to “stick with it!” regularly, she helped me understand that God does not save us then say, “Now go do your Christianity is an actual relationship with best and give it all ya got!” Quite the contrary!

Jesus…a Jesus that was not the angry, The message of the Cross begs us to rely on disappointed Jesus I envisioned, and I began to Jesus and the power only He can offer. He is read the Bible with new eyes. I was still attending alive. He is real. He is relevant. For mamas at church (because that’s just what you do in the home changing diapers, for young college South), but I continued to live my paradoxical life graduates looking for jobs, for singles waiting for of doing whatever the heck I pleased and calling a spouse, for dads working to provide, for on God when things weren’t going my way. grieving families, for the elderly couples While I cannot pinpoint an exact event or finishing their last chapters. For each of us. All experience that happened next, I can tell you that the time. Perhaps you will revisit the message of my heart began to shift…and both of the the Cross today. Y following were simultaneously true: God was Amanda is a Mississippi native who now pursuing me with a fury; and I was responding lives in Arkansas with her husband, ever so slowly. Frankly, I believed that being “all David, their three children, and their in” with Christianity meant that I would be schnoodle, Dutch. She blogs at cashing in for a boring, regulated, very vanilla www.myheartsdesireblog.com. life. So for several more years, my old lifestyle

L

of First Baptist Church Jackson

Christian Counseling for Individuals, Couples and Families ◆ Anxiety ◆ Marital Issues ◆ Pre-marital Counseling ◆ Divorce Recovery ◆ Family Issues ◆ Addictions ◆ Support Groups Evening appointments Fees based on family income

Ron Mumbower, Ph.D. Director First Baptist Jackson ◆ 431 North State Street

601.949.1949 www.counselingministry.com

40 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk it over

by JENNIFER HEGGIE

INSPIRATION for Change Do you have difficulty changing some of your bad habits? Our tendency is to continue our life as we have in the past. Like trying to paddle up stream without a paddle, the longer our habits continue, the more difficult they are to change.

Our old ideas must give way to new ideas. We must learn and practice good habits: speaking kind words one to another, thinking positive thoughts about each of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children, learning to work together, spending time in His word, learning and recognizing that today is really not about me, be fair and honest with all, be a person of your word and treat others the way you want to be treated. Remember this is a learning process and it is about progress not perfection.

So how are these changes to be made? This is not an easy task but it can be done. The inspiration we need can be found in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word.

In 2 Timothy 3:16,17 â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it strengthens us and helps us do right. It is Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone.â&#x20AC;?

To live differently we must think differently. Here are some inspirational tools that will help enable us to change.

TOOL #1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Bible No greater source of inspiration for making positive changes in our life can be found than in His Word. Daily reading, studying the Bible and application of these Truths will bring about change in each of us.

TOOL #2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Positive Thoughts The manner in which we act is determined by our thoughts. The ultimate direction we go is determined by out response to these thoughts. Philippians 4:8 stated â&#x20AC;&#x153;Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.â&#x20AC;?

TOOL #3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Have a Plan for the Day Develop a strategy to do more for God each day. Things of value begin with a plan. Ask God for direction and for inspiration. Ask for freedom for self will. Relax and take it easy.

TOOL #4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Other People Ask a friend what he or she would do to bring about change. Talk

to a Christian counselor for guidance. Be a part of a local church congregation and seek encouragement from a small group setting. Put these positive thoughts into action.

TOOL #5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Subsitute Good Habits for Bad Habits Ephesians 4:31, 32 states â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stop being mean, bad-tempered, and angry. Quarreling, harsh words, and dislike of others should have no place in your lives. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another just as God has forgiven you because you belong to Christâ&#x20AC;?

TOOL #6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Prayer God cares about what troubles us and will provide the inspiration needed to change our lives. 1 Peter 5:7 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let Him have ALL your worries and cares for He is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns youâ&#x20AC;?.

TOOL #7 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; One Day at a Time Matthew 6:34 says â&#x20AC;&#x153;So donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time.â&#x20AC;? Ask Him to direct your paths for just this day. Remember â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each day is a gift from God, how you use it is your gift to Himâ&#x20AC;? - Unknown Author

TOOL #8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Patience Patience is required to reflect change in our lives. Patience is a process, not an event. In one of my art classrooms at Mississippi College there was a sign hanging at the front of the classroom that read â&#x20AC;&#x153;Patience is a Virtue.â&#x20AC;? Galatians 6:9 says â&#x20AC;&#x153;And let us not get tired of doing what is right for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessings if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get discouraged and give up.â&#x20AC;?

Remember â&#x20AC;&#x153;Watch your thoughts, for they become words. Watch your words, for they become actions. Watch your actions, for they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become character. Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Unknown Author Y Jennifer has her Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Mississippi College and is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Jennifer helps her clients find freedom from anorexia, bulimia, and related conditions as well as addictions. Call for an appointment at 601.949.1949.

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Â&#x201E;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D; Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x17D;Â&#x192;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x2020;ÇŤ Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018; Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2026;Â? Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2039;Â?Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x2022; Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2013; Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D; Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2026;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2019;Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Ǥ Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D; Â&#x2018;Â&#x2122; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â?

Ǥ Ǥ ÇŻ Â&#x2039;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2026;Â&#x2039;Â&#x192;Â&#x17D; Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022; 1.800.844.3254

We believe that every moment matters. Maybe thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why so many families believe in us when it comes to choosing a hospice provider. For more information or to receive our free DVD, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hospice and Your Loved One,â&#x20AC;? call 601-983-3193. gentiva.com/hospice 106 Riverview Drive / Flowood, MS 39232

phone 601-983-3193 / fax 601-983-3194 Gentiva accepts patients for care regardless of age, race, color national origin, religion, sex, disability, being a qualified disabled veteran, being a qualified disabled veteran of MKT3144 the Vietnam era, or any other category protected by law, or decisions regarding advance directives. Š 2011 Gentiva Health Services, Inc.

metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; APRIL 2012 41

➺christian commerce corner Covenant Caregivers MIKE DAVIS, OWNER

Q:

Background, Education and Family I was born and raised in Jackson. Graduated from Ole Miss in 1993 with a BBA (business administration) and MBA. My wife, Nicole, and I have 3 daughters—Cayce (14), Francie (11) and Mary Huntley (5). We live in Madison and attend Pinelake Baptist Church—Madison campus where we are very active with the children’s ministry. Nicole owns Private Collection, a ladies’ consignment boutique which has been in Madison for 8 years. So, life is full of activities with 2 businesses, church, and school.

Q:

When did Covenant Caregivers begin?

The idea of such a business came to me through a great friend and co-worker in the summer of 2011.

At first, I dismissed it, thinking there was no way I could throw a huge kink like this into the life of my family. So, a couple of months went by and I received a call from another friend and former coworker that had moved to Texas, she and her husband had opened a similar company years ago.

She encouraged me to give it some more thought.

In October 2011, I went out to Austin to visit their operation and decided to take a true leap of faith as I wrote my resignation letter, leaving a very stable, comfortable job. Within a month of my last day in the corporate world, Covenant Caregivers took its first client in January 2012.

Q:

Interest in a career serving the elderly.

For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed being around “older” people. I would say that my childhood church had a lot to do with my admiration and respect for the elderly. I remember feeling like I had countless sets of grandparents—they were all so kind and it just seemed “right” to serve them. After about 5 years in the workforce, I responded to an advertisement in the paper for a marketing director position at an assisted living community in Ridgeland. I was hooked from day one and

have been serving the elderly ever since…I never dreamed that 15 years later, I would own my own business doing what I love.

Q:

What services do Covenant Caregivers provide?

Covenant Caregivers is a non-medical home care business providing companions and personal care attendants in the home to offer one-on-one care and service to those in need. This type of business is often referred to as a “private duty” or “sitting” agency. I personally don’t like the words “sit,” “sitter,” “sitting,” etc. It implies that our caregivers are there to literally sit and provide very little value. I try my best to not use these words when talking to prospective clients and especially when interviewing an interested applicant. Our services have quite a range… they include offering companionship to providing personal care services.

Some examples of these services are companionship & conversation, light housekeeping, meal preparation & cleanup, transportation to medical appointments, errand running, assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming & eating, continence care, and medication reminders to name a few. An individualized care plan is created for each client to provide an optimal experience.

How does your Christian Faith integrate with your business?

As I look back over the last 15 years, one thing is abundantly clear— God has been preparing me to be in this place at this time all along. The words of Jeremiah 29:11-14 have never been more real to me. The Message puts it like this, “I know what I am doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. When you call on Me, when you come and pray to Me, I’ll listen. When you come looking for Me, you’ll find Me. Yes, when you get serious about finding Me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed.” These words gave me the peace of mind I needed last year to move forward with Covenant Caregivers. This business certainly has the feel of a ministry—it offers a daily opportunity to touch the lives of people, regardless of their background, faith, denomination or physical/mental condition. I believe that God calls us to simply love and serve those around us. For me, this includes our clients, their families, and my staff. Sometimes, that calling is easy and at other times, it seems nearly impossible. Daily, I ask God to use Covenant Caregivers to put people in my path who need to see and feel the love that only He can give. My constant prayer is that God would use me as His vessel to love and serve, regardless of circumstance or season of life. It is a responsibility I don’t take lightly and is one that challenges me to depend on Him every single day. Y

Q:

For more information, you can call 601-856-5660 or visit our website at www.CovenantCaregiversMs.com. We provide a free, in-home consultation so that an individualized plan of care can be established for our clients.

42 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

event collage

Metro Christian Living magazine hosted the 4th Annual Christian Leaders of the Future reception on the Belhaven University Campus March 1st.

Twenty five students were chosen from a field of over 100 applicants from 45 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 five independent judges.

About 200 family and friends and representatives of corporate sponsors attended the reception at Belhaven. Prior to the reception the students enjoyed two workshops: one on author and professional speaker Mandi Stanley and one by Justin Pillsbury, Minister to youth at First Presbyterian Church of Jackson. Martin Willoughby, CEO of Butler Snow Advisory gave the key-note speech on principles and habits that make for successful leadership.

Sponsors of the event include Title Sponsor, Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company and others: Belhaven University, First Commercial Bank, Patty Peck Honda, Matt Ballew Security, MMI Hospitality, Stegall Imagery.

Two one thousand dollar scholarships were awarded at the conclusion of the awards program.

Ann Walker Kimes of Greenwood and Frankie Cobbins-Bailey of Jackson were the recipients. Y

Linda Powell, Catherine Carroon, Dan Powell

Kelly Liles and Tina Liles

Carol Cooper, Rhonda Cooper, Caron Byrd, James Cooper

Taylor Byrd, Betsy Creekmore, Wade Creekmore, Marilyn Tinnin, Beth Byrd, Ann Byrd

Martin Willoughby, Frankie Cobbins-Bailey, Marilyn Tinnin and Walker Kimes metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; APRIL 2012 43

➺rave reviews BOOKS

For those who want a special reminder TURQUOISE CROSS NECKLACE $59

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&

Joel Clarke Sons Jewelry 1675 Lakeland Drive • Jackson, MS

601.983.2600 www.joelclarkeandsonsjewelry.com Find us on Facebook

Mark The Gospel of Passion Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson You may know Michael Card better for his music than for his books, but if you enjoy his thoughtful, Scripturally based lyrics, you’ll love discovering his books. His written work shows the same Biblical depth that his music reflects. With Mark, Card releases the second of his four book “Biblical Imagination” series on the Gospels.

By “imagination” Card means how the mind and heart work together. Bringing imagination to the Scripture requires that we have an informed imagination, having done the necessary study to understand the historical background and how Scripture fits together. Once this takes place, we can engage more fully with the text.

He brings this approach to Mark, the Gospel of passion. After introducing us to Mark himself, Card gives an overview of the book, including pointing out that Mark shows us more of Jesus’ emotional life than any other Gospel. He provides commentary, language information, and historical background to allow the reader to see Jesus as Mark presents Him in deeper ways.

The remainder of the book goes through the book of Mark chapter by chapter. The author breaks each chapter into smaller sections, capturing the flow of events in ways the chapter divisions may not address. Each section begins with the author’s translation of a passage, followed by further information.

Mark is not a book to read quickly, but to savor slowly. You’ll find new insight from Card’s richly textured work, allowing the Biblical material to penetrate your heart more deeply. 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.

God Shed His Grace Songs of Truth and Freedom Reviewed by Marilyn Tinnin I confess I have been a Twila Paris fan from the first time I heard her voice thirty years ago. There was a time I did not like to admit that despite my classical piano background, I enjoyed some of the contemporary praise and worship music even in a church service. I have played “How Beautiful” in countless weddings and several different keys over the years and I am not tired of it yet.

When I received the promo for God Shed His Grace and saw the Stars and Stripes adorning the cover, I immediately popped it in my laptop. There are 13 songs in the collection and some of them are indeed songs of faith and patriotism, but for the most part, the title is misleading. It should be named More Greatest Hits. “God of our Fathers,” and “America the Beautiful” are moving renditions, and although the album notes try to make a connection between such favorites as “How Beautiful,” “Runner,” “I See You Standing,” and “The Warrior is a Child,” I felt like it was a stretch to consider these patriotic.

This probably won’t be the album you pull out on the Fourth of July, but it is Twila as inspiring as I have ever heard. Just know what you’re expecting when you buy it. Y

44 APRIL 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

events calendar WHAT’S GOING ON?

April 3 The United Methodist Women group of Christ United Methodist Church will host their annual Tablescapes event from 10:00 a.m.1:00 p.m. Enjoy viewing beautifully decorated tables while tasting delicious appetizers. Tickets are $10 per person with proceeds going to support Mississippi charities. For additional information call 601-956-6974.

April 12-13 The Garden Club of Jackson is holding its 2012 Home and Garden Show with proceeds from the event benefiting Stewpot Community Services and Habitat for Humanity Metro Jackson. Enjoy strolling through beautiful gardens and gaining creative ideas for your own back yard while supporting two great causes. For additional information go to www.gardenclubofjackson.com

April 14 The Veritas School, located at 1202 Highland Colony Parkway in Ridgeland, will play host to The Market at Veritas from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The market will feature live music, food, silent auction, a raffle and a medley of unique handmade items.

Admission is $5, children 10 and under are admitted free. For more information go to www.theveritasschool.org

April 21 St. Andrew’s Arts on the Green will be a one day full filled event featuring over 60 artist exhibits, science, music and much more.

Located at the North Campus, this family event is free to the public and sure to have something for everyone. For additional information go to www.stapresents.org.

April 27 Fellowship of Christian Athlete’s 25th Annual Wild Game Luncheon will be held at First Baptist Church Jackson from 11:30-1:15. Ken Hatfield, former head coach of the University of Arkansas, Clemson University and Rice University, will be the keynote speaker. Tickets can be ordered online at www.fcams.org or call 601-8563224 for additional information.

CLINTON April 14 Main Street Clinton’s 5th annual Children’s Caterpillar Parade kicks off the Olde Towne Market season with family activities including magic shows, rides, prizes, face painting and more. The fun begins at 10:00 a.m. at Lion’s Club Park and continues throughout the day. For more information call 601-9245472.

April 17 The Face & Body Center Plastic & Hand Surgery Associates located on 2550 Flowood Drive is sponsoring Hope & Healing Breast Cancer Support System – a support group for women currently dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This informative, encouraging, and educational support network will continue to meet the third Tuesday of each month. For additional information call 601-936-0925 or email splunkett@phsa-ms.com.

JACKSON May 2 The Little Light House, a tuition free Christian Development Center for children ages birth to six with special needs, will host their 7th Annual Little Light House “Tees for Tots” Golf Tournament. Registration begins at 11:00 a.m. with tee time starts at 12:30 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit The Little Light House Central Mississippi. Register at www.llhms.org or call 601-829-3446. Y

Madison Ridgeland Academy will host its signature event, “The Gardens of Madison County” May 4 – 6. For this eighteenth year, expect a smorgasbord of tips and live demonstrations that take you from the kitchen to the grill to the garden to the…golf course? Right. This year you can even get “Tee Time Golf Tips” in the home of Cindy and Chuck Bell. Other presentations include “Effective Water Gardening and Landscaping Tips” by Gardenworks of Madison, Cooking demonstrations by Persnickety Kitchens and the Viking Cooking School, “The Big Green Egg” demonstration by Dr. Clark Ethridge, “Practical Flower Arranging” with Jerry Baker Adams, and two book-signings, one by Mississippi artist, writer and gardener Laurie Parker and one by photographer Joe Mac Hudspeth.

What began as a small fund-raiser for the school has become a grand and much anticipated spring event that attracts visitors from all over the state. It truly is a wonderful way to spend a weekend! Other than enjoying the scenery and gathering some unique ideas for your own space, the Garden Gate Gift Shop and the Gardens Market, located on the MRA campus at 7601 Old Canton Road in Madison, offer a plethora of unique gifts for home, garden, and patio. Hanging baskets and container gardens are fabulous Mother’s Day gifts!

Seven gardens within an approximate twelve to fifteen mile area will be groomed to perfection. There is a special demonstration at each one. By all means, go to the excellent website (www.mragardens.com) for a map and for more information.

Advance tickets are $12.00 each, $15.00 during the Tour weekend. Senior citizen tickets are $10.00. There is also an opportunity for the purchase of a limited number of $100.00 Drawdown tickets with a first prize of $7500 cash. Other prizes include several package trips, an IPAD, and season passes to all MRA sporting events. Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ APRIL 2012 45

APRIL 2012

JACKSON

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISING INDEX ADVERTISER

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

✂

“We can easily manage if we will only take each day the burden appointed to it. But the load will be too heavy for us if we carry yesterday’s burden over again today, and then add the burden of the morrow before we are required to bear it.”

“People who walk in the Spirit judge “things - Not people.”

– Beth Moore

– John Newton

“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

- Acts 4:12

“The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over no matter what my circumstances”

“April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.”

– William Shakespeare

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

– Watchman Nee

– Robert Flatt

“The angel said to the women,“Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”

“We understand and acknowledge that the Resurrection has placed a glorious crown upon all of Christ's sufferings.”

- Matthew 28:5-6

– A.W. Tozer

“The real truth I’ve come to believe is that gifting and inadequacy are Siamese twins joined at the hip. One is never quite without the other. The places where you feel less than competent are often strangely fused to your actual gifts and calling.”

– Paula Rinehart

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

– Linda Grayson

“The joyful news that He is risen does not change the contemporary world.

Still before us lie work, discipline, sacrifice. But the fact of Easter gives us the spiritual power to do the work, accept the discipline, and make the sacrifice.”

– Henry Knox Sherrill

NORTH STATE ANIMAL & BIRD HOSPITAL 5208 North State Street • Jackson, MS 39206

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 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

…”It is finished”…

– John 19:30

PAGE

Apple Annie’s ......................................................36 Batte Furniture......................................................11 Beautiful Image of Jackson..................................14 Belhaven Grad......................................................17 Belhaven University ..............................................23 Biaggi’s..................................................................22 Brooks Ministry Insurance ....................................15 Callaway’s Yard & Garden ......................................9 Chapman’s Florist.................................................22 Christ Covenant School........................................16 Covenant Caregivers............................................27 Dr. Donald C. Guild..............................................37 Dr. Phillip Ley........................................................10 Edible Arrangements ...........................................20 Energy Insulation ..................................................42 Environment Masters..............................................2 Eye Care Professionals .........................................48 Fellowship of Christian Athletes ..........................10 FPDS .....................................................................20 Gentiva Hospice ...................................................41 Grantham Poole CPAs..........................................28 Heiden & Garland ................................................44 Highland Village ...................................................14 Jackson Academy...................................................2 Jackson Heart .......................................................14 Jackson Prep .......................................................14 Jay Hassel State Farm ..........................................37 Joel Clark & Sons Jewelry....................................44 KidFest..................................................................19 Lifeway Christian Stores .......................................15 Main Street Greenwood ......................................16 Metro Christian Living ..........................................47 Miskelly’s Furniture .................................................5 Mission Mississippi ...............................................28 MS Children’s Homes Services ............................16 MRA Gardens of Madison ...................................15 Newk’s...................................................................21 North State Animal Hospital................................46 Novella Boutique & Salon....................................22 O! How Cute ........................................................13 O’Mire Financial Services.....................................41 Pennington & Trim Alarm Services, Inc. ..............11 Plato’s Closet ........................................................36 Reformed Theological Seminary..........................36 Remedy Weight Loss............................................12 River Oaks...............................................................7 Sitters, LLC............................................................36 Smiles by Design ..................................................20 Southern Farm Bureau .........................................20 Star 93.5................................................................47 St. Dominic’s ...........................................................2 Stegall Imagery.....................................................35 Summit Counseling ..............................................40 Sunnybrook Estates..............................................36 Tinnin Imports.........................................................4 Trustmark Bank .......................................................9 Twin Lakes Ccamp................................................12 Venable Glass Services.........................................22 Veritas School .......................................................36 Village Beads ........................................................22 Wellspring Wealth Group.....................................22 William B. Howell, Ltd. ........................................37 Wilson & Wilson Irrigation ...................................30 Woodridge Capital...............................................31 Written in Stone ...................................................40 Wright Ferguson Funeral Home ..........................15 For more information on our advertisers visit www.metrochristianliving.com

Metro Christian Living has a new website (You are going to LOVE it) MetroChristianLiving.com Find us on Facebook!

Real life stories from real life people who live and move in a world like yours. That is what Metro Christian Living Magazine is all about. metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; APRIL 2012 47