Mississippi Christian Living June 2023

The Men’s Issue

4 men we love share their God stories

● Why you don’t have to be a ‘perfect’ father

● A recipe, a rescue, a Redefined Retirement and more

PUBLISHER

MS Christian Living, Inc.

EDITOR

Katie Eubanks

katie@mschristianliving.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Suzanne Durfey

ART/GRAPHIC DESIGN Sandra Goff

SALES

Suzanne Durfey, Ginger Gober, Teresa Howell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chris Fields, Laura Lee Leathers, Bro. Royce Lott, Sarah Rein, Jade Whitehurst

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Stegall Imagery

DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANTS

Rachel and Nettie Schulte, Jerri and Sammy Strickland, Rachel and Bob Whatley

Mississippi Christian Living

P.O. Box 1819 Madison, MS 39130 601.345.1091

mschristianliving.com

Mississippi 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 Mississippi Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Mississippi 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 2022 by MS Christian Living, Inc.

Mississippi Christian Living is published monthly and is available for free at hightraffic locations throughout the tri-county area. Subscriptions are $29 a year.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Mississippi Christian Living, P.O. Box 1819, Madison, MS 39130.

From left: Austin Roberson, Lindsay Williams, Nate Clark and Akashi Nishigata are just four examples of the half-century legacy of Wesley Biblical Seminary (page 24).

MCL Editor Katie Eubanks Ginn and her husband, Stephen, just after saying “I

(page 6).

From left: Rick Courtney, Nathan Stamper, Rev. Reginald Buckley and Brent Leach share a laugh after their cover story interview (page 16).

PHOTO BY FOLLOWELL FOTOGRAPHY

39 years,

On becoming Mrs. Ginn

Yes, it’s finally time to write about the wedding! First, I want to tell y’all how I found out that my husband is, in fact, an imperfect human.

As our wedding drew near, I felt like I was always doing or saying (or not doing, or not saying) something foolish or inconsiderate. Maybe it was all the planning; Stephen is better at that than I am.

Turns out, I might be better at keeping my cool sometimes when said plans don’t work out.

We were about to leave our wedding reception, and Stephen had a plan: A violin version of the “Indiana Jones” theme song would play over the speakers, his best man would hand him an Indiana Jones-style hat, and we’d run through the sparklers to the car. (Indy is one of his favorite action heroes.)

The song played too soon. The sparklers were still being lit, so the timing with the hat was off. The sound guy had to start the track over again. Our guests didn’t notice, but Stephen did, and he was beyond frustrated.

We had a discussion on the way home: He knew he was overreacting and apologized, but he didn’t understand how such a clear vision in his head couldn’t be brought to life perfectly. Why didn’t everyone do things the way he wanted them done?

Finally, a character flaw!

In all seriousness, this is just one of the many ways we’re a perfect fit: He helps me be more proactive, and I help him by not freaking out when plans fall apart. Now, on to the stuff

y’all really want to read about!

Some favorite wedding memories: Stephen got me a replica of the Evenstar necklace from the “Lord of the Rings” movies as a wedding gift. I had my suspicions after he started getting cocky about his gift for me. Sure enough, when I read his card (we opened our gifts separately on our wedding day), he’d written a quote from “Fellowship of the Ring,” and I knew. That necklace from Stephen — which I didn’t wear during the ceremony, but only because it would’ve overwhelmed the dress — did as much to make me feel beautiful as all the hair and makeup stuff combined. (For my gift to him, I got him three record albums to add to my — now our — collection: two by Coldplay, and one by Jack Johnson.)

Because of its convenient location, the bridesmaids and I waited in the women’s restroom just before go time for the ceremony. I wound up surprising several folks who came into the bathroom for their own “go time.” Hilarious.

Our first dance started off slow before transitioning to Redbone’s “Come and Get Your Love,” one of Stephen’s favorites from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” soundtrack. I think Chris Pratt would be proud.

Some favorite honeymoon memories:

We arrived at the Jamaican resort right at sunset. As we walked through the lobby and saw the view out the back, I was amazed. Pink sky, palm trees, and the Caribbean Sea, all in perfect alignment. I kept hitting Stephen and going, “Look at this. Look at this.” The view

from our balcony was even better.

A couple’s massage in a gazebo where we could hear the waves playing on the shore.

Blackened fish with lemon aioli. One of the best things I’ve ever eaten.

Room service breakfast on our balcony nearly every morning.

Lying in the shade of a palm tree on the beach and reading aloud to Stephen from a fluffy Christian romance.

Dancing in front of a crowd (again). The vocalist performing on the terrace that night encouraged “brave” female guests onto the floor, and Stephen physically pushed me out of my chair. Then after I and another woman had goofed around up front for a minute, the singer said to go get our partners. The other husband bailed, so it was just Stephen and me. Glad we’d had some practice at the wedding!

This month is our Men’s Issue, and I could write a whole Editor’s Letter on all the ways Stephen is an amazing man. He’s fun, tender, curious, repentant when he needs to be, and always communicates with me, even when it’s uncomfortable. Like the men in our cover story (page 16), he has Jesus to credit for that. May we all seek to be godly men and women, admit when we mess up, and keep pursuing our Savior with everything we have! Y

Katie Eubanks Ginn katie@mschristianliving.com

PHOTO BY FOLLOWELL FOTOGRAPHY

The word father is a weighted one. It stirs up emotions that can run the gamut from love, admiration and gratitude to anger, disappointment and loss. For some, it calls up a rich lifetime of memories, and for others, there is a void and an ache. Men bear a holy burden of responsibility: to love their wives as Christ loves the church, to lead their families by sacrificing themselves, and to bring children up in the Lord while not provoking them to anger. How overwhelming that might feel.

As a woman, most of the scriptural directives in God’s Word apply to me as well … but not all of them. We have different roles. Neither superior nor less desirable — just different. But it is interesting to me to observe the profound effect fathers have. I shared with one of my elementary-age children that I was writing about Christian fathers, and she said, “They kind of feel like the most important part, don’t they?”

We could pick that statement and wording apart, but I find it fascinating that she intuitively understands how distinct and special her dad’s role is. We have all seen anecdotal and statistical evidence that lends credence to that notion. Men matter. Fathers matter.

My dad died almost two years ago — long enough for me to have gained some perspective on his legacy. I see reflections of my precious father when I buy an armload of used books even though I already have a stack on my nightstand, or when my brother laughs so hard he cries while sharing a hilarious story, or when my sister avoids conflict like the

plague (Dad was peace-loving to a fault).

I see those reflections in more significant ways too: when my children hum the hymns they know because my father taught them to me; or how our families are deeply connected to our local churches because Daddy made that a priority in our family; or how we treasure laughter and don’t take ourselves too seriously because we saw him model that. Most importantly, I see those reflections in how each of our families loves Jesus and is teaching a new generation to love Him too.

My dad would be the first to say he wasn’t perfect. I feel certain he didn’t think he led us flawlessly or did everything “right.” So I want to encourage you, men, that if you are Christ’s, your inadequate attempts to obey God’s commands are covered in grace. You have a Savior who intercedes for you and whose perfection cloaks your weaknesses. Fight the good fight. Die to yourself every day. Take up your cross and follow your Lord. God is sovereign, and He can use your faithfulness in things great and small to provide blessings for generations.

This is my Father’s world:

O let me ne’er forget

That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the Ruler yet.

This is my Father’s world:

Why should my heart be sad?

The Lord is King: let the heavens ring!

God reigns; let earth be glad! –

from “This Is My Father’s World” by Maltbie Babcock Y

Sarah Rein and her husband, Trey, are raising their four children in Brandon, where Trey is a school principal and Sarah is home a LOT. Luckily she’s an introvert who enjoys reading and learning about new things and people. The Reins love their church family at Lakeside Presbyterian and coffee.

Why you don’t have to be a ‘perfect’ father

Columnist Sarah Beasley Rein with her dad, the late James Beasley.

The Beasley clan.

Many mothers feel overwhelmed when facing an unplanned pregnancy. But there are safe places in Mississippi for these women to consider their options. Your tag purchase supports life affirming pregnancy resource centers that provide women with free ultrasounds, baby and parenting preparation classes, maternity/infant supplies, STI/STD testing and treatment and much needed counseling.

A creamsicle that won’t kill your fitness dreams

Summer break is officially upon us, so bring on all the summer fun and treats! This time of year always gives me the sweet tooth cravings, and who doesn’t love a delicious popsicle on a hot day?

Unfortunately, the standard ice cream truck treat is packed with sugar, dyes and other junk that just doesn’t serve our bodies well.

So, here’s a grownup creamsicle recipe (with just 80 calories) that tastes good and will help you feel good as you put your feet up poolside!

Coconut Blueberry Creamsicles

1/3 cup reduced fat plain Greek yogurt

1/3 cup canned light coconut milk

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3 teaspoons raw honey (1 teaspoon separated for use)

2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

1/4 cup water

Combine yogurt, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon honey in a medium bowl and mix well. Pour mixture evenly into ice-pop molds and freeze at least 2 hours or until partially set.

Place blueberries, water, and remaining 2 teaspoons honey in blender; cover and blend until smooth. Slowly pour blueberry mixture evenly into ice pop molds on top of coconut milk mixture; freeze at least 4 hours or until set.

Makes 4 servings.

If you are active on Instagram and happen to make this, post a picture of your delicious treat and tag me @jadewhitehurst_thefaithfitmom so I can be excited for what your taste buds are about to experience! Y

Jade Whitehurst is a wife, mom, fitness coach and eighth-grade science teacher. You can follow her on Instagram @jadewhitehurst_fit (aka The Faith Fit Mom).

“ This time of year always gives me the sweet tooth cravings, and who doesn’t love a delicious popsicle on a hot day? Unfortunately, the standard ice cream truck treat is packed with sugar, dyes and other junk that just doesn’t serve our bodies well. ”

St. Catherine’s care allows couple to stay close

One of the benefits of a Life Plan Community is that residents can move from one level of care to another as their needs shift, all while remaining in a familiar environment. Jim Pierce and his wife, Bettie, who have lived at St. Catherine’s Village in Madison for nine years, found themselves in this exact situation as Mr. Pierce’s health changed after an illness. Now 93, he receives the right care and support in skilled nursing while Bettie remains in the couple’s independent living garden home on campus.

During their early retirement, Mr. and Mrs. Pierce split their time between North Carolina and Florida. After an accident and multiple cardiac arrests, Mr. Pierce knew it was time to start planning for the future, because “you never know what’s going to happen.” That planning included a visit to St. Catherine’s, where they fell in love with the 160-acre wooded property.

The couple purchased a homesite within St. Catherine’s with the intention of building a garden home after selling their North Carolina property. While the new section of the community was being developed, the Pierces met another couple in North Carolina who already lived in a garden home at St. Catherine’s. Shortly thereafter, the Pierces decided it was the right time to move to the Life Plan Community. Then the pandemic hit — and COVID-19 hit Mr. Pierce.

“Because of my accident, I had already slowed down some and my balance was off,” he explained. “But COVID put me in dire straits. I wondered, ‘What am I going to do now?’

Thankfully I was able to move to the Tuscany building on the St. Catherine’s Village campus.

And my wife was able to stay in our garden home.”

The St. Catherine’s team praised Mr. Pierce for taking the initiative to do something different to ensure both he and his wife receive the best quality of life for the level of care they each need.

The Pierces are a perfect example of what an all-inclusive Life Plan Community can provide. Mr. Pierce has maximized the skilled nursing experience and looks at life with a glass-half-full attitude. He brightens up the area for both staff and other residents.

Mrs. Pierce visits her husband routinely in Tuscany, and he can use a scooter to go down to the dining room for meals with her. He is involved with her life and her protection despite not living in the same house. He manages much

of what needs to be done in their home and contacts the staff when the need arises.

“I found out in the corporate world that you’re not there to be king, you’re there to be a leader and give credit where it’s due,” said Mr. Pierce. That’s one reason he treats everyone he comes in contact with at Tuscany — from housekeeping to caregivers and nurses — with respect and is the first one to share compliments. “They have been so good to me here. I have been so blessed.”

Married for 68 years, the Pierces have two daughters who often visit them at St. Catherine’s, along with seven grandchildren and 10 greatgrandchildren spread across the country from Montana to Dallas to Nashville to Mississippi.

As Madison’s preeminent Life Plan Community, St. Catherine’s provides the right care at the right time with independent living in apartments and garden homes, assisted living in Marian Hall, memory care in Campbell Cove, skilled nursing in Siena Center and Tuscany, and skilled nursing dedicated to memory care in Hughes Center.

The private gated community boasts a caring staff, on-site resident-centered care, and a mission-focused environment, and was the first Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in the state to earn accreditation by CARF-CCAC. This “commitment to excellence” seal signifies that the campus exceeds the standards established by the only international accrediting body for CCRCs.

To learn more about St. Catherine’s Village, visit StCatherinesVillage.com or call 601.856.0123 to schedule a tour. Y

Enrich

your life at St. Catherine’s Village, Madison’s preeminent all-inclusive Life Plan Community. Whatever your senior living needs are, you’ll find the right care at the right time.

Betty and Jim Pierce have lived at St. Catherine’s Village for nine years.

When joy rose up from 36 feet underground

In my 30-plus years of ministry, those closest to me have always joked about how much I talk! I don’t think I’ve ever preached a typical 30-minute sermon, EVER. But on a particular Thursday 10 years ago, I think I talked more in three hours than I ever will again.

I’ve led groups of hundreds of teenagers all over this country. What challenge could a morning out with 50 or so children be? We were at a beautiful Mississippi agritourism site. Only seconds after the kids stepped off the bus, as I directed them to our designated spot, a child ran up to me shouting, “Mr. Royce, (she) fell in a hole!”

In an instant, not 30 feet from me, a 6-year-old child had disappeared down an abandoned well bore (14 inches in diameter) — 36 feet below the surface. I had walked that very ground the night before, but a deluge of rain had apparently loosened the grown-over sod that had hidden this hole.

For the next three and a half hours, I lay with my face at the edge of that well and spoke life to a frightened child as every effort was made to rescue her. At my every attempt to get up and let the professionals work, they insisted that I stay. “She’s responding to you. Try to keep her calm.”

Three rescue attempts failed. Then, two and a half hours into the ordeal, a special team out of Hattiesburg arrived. This was the last hope

for direct rescue before we were to deploy backhoes to dig a counter hole and cut across to her. As they set up the equipment and explained the process, I felt one of the most frightening feelings I’ve known in my life. The director of this rescue put the device in my hand, demonstrated what it needed to do, then looked at me and said, “You’ve gotta do this — she’s responding to you!”

With lights shining down the hole and this “handcuff” device being lowered from a specialized rescue tripod, I thought, “Dear God, help me!” About 10 minutes passed as I coached this precious little girl’s every move, as

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if she were putting on bracelets to play dress-up, to get into just the right position to put on this harness. While talking with my mouth, I was praying in my heart.

Then, in seconds, she was out! I lay down and just wept, praising God! Greater still, after a 36-foot fall, she hadn’t even broken a bone. She was discharged from the ER about five hours later and is doing well today.

Friends, the people on the surface heard my voice, but the Voice of Peace was what this little girl was hearing, and He breathed life so she would hear and respond. The same Firewalker who rescued three boys from a king’s fiery furnace walked a little girl back up to the earth’s surface that Thursday. What a mighty God we serve!

This was a day I never want to repeat, but a day which has made my voice a bit louder and prouder as I use my “gift of gab.”

For His fame, glory and renown, Brother Royce. Y

Brother Royce, as he is known to most, is senior pastor of Satartia First Baptist Church in Yazoo County. He is a minister of over 30 years, serving both this church and communities throughout the Southeast in social, emotional and behavioral education. He and his wife, Beth, live in Madison County.

This article was originally published in the George County Times newspaper in Lucedale.

Columnist Royce Lott and his wife, Beth.

If you aren’t sure whether you have a relationship with God or where you’ll go when you die, please don’t put this magazine down until you’ve read the following:

✝ THE PROBLEM

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. – Romans 3:23

For the wages of sin is death … – Romans 6:23a

The natural result and consequence of our sin is eternal death, or hell (Revelation 20:15), separated from God. This is because God is completely perfect and holy (Matthew 5:48), and His justice demands that sin be punished (Proverbs 11:21).

✝ THE SOLUTION

… but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. – Romans 6:23b

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8

Jesus Christ died in our place on the cross and took on the punishment for all our sins (Isaiah 53:4-6). Then God raised Him from the dead (John 20)!

HOW TO RECEIVE SALVATION

If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. – Romans 10:9

Trust in what Jesus has done for you — His death for your sins and His resurrection — and trust Him as Lord.

IS IT FOR ANYONE?

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. – Romans 10:13

THE RESULTS

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. – Romans 5:1

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39

WHAT TO DO NEXT

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. – Romans 10:17

If you decided to trust in Jesus, grow in your faith by reading more of God’s Word in the Bible. We recommend the gospel of John (it comes just after Luke) as a good starting point — or Romans!

Finding a church close to you that teaches faith in Christ is another important step. It’s crucial to spend time with other believers so we can encourage each other in our faith.

If you have questions about anything on this page, please contact us at 601.896.1432, or send us a message on Facebook @MSChristianLiving, Instagram @mschristianmag or Twitter @MSChristLiving.

Leadership, love, and letting go

4 men we love share their God stories

MCL Editor Katie Eubanks Ginn recently sat down with four men from across the Jackson metro area who serve in a variety of contexts, from pulpits to baseball fields, legal offices and living rooms. They talked about their spiritual influences, what it takes to disciple men, and what God has taught them in their careers and ministries. The interview has been edited for space and clarity, but you can hear it in full on the MCL podcast, “A Closer Walk.” Just go to Apple Podcasts or Spotify and search “Mississippi Christian Living”!

PHOTO BY STEGALL IMAGERY

● Senior Pastor, Cade Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Jackson

● Married to Dr. Lecretia Buckley

● Children: Jonathan and Anna

● Wise words: “God is big enough, He’s strong enough, and He knows enough to handle the things we don’t know or understand.”

● Director of Men’s Ministry and Sports Ministry, First Baptist Brandon

● Married to Sara Leach

● Children: Lily (11), Asher (6), Judson (4)

● Wise words: “There are no more Mayberrys. Satan is trying to take it all down. Don’t just take what you hear on Sunday and put it in your pocket for your own benefit. We’ve got to keep our eyes up and be in the fight.”

● Spiritual Life Director and Assistant Baseball Coach, Madison-Ridgeland Academy

● Married to Leanne Stamper

● Children: Rush (8), Sam (4)

● Wise words: “It’s up to me to plant the seeds, but the Lord produces the harvest. It’s pretty easy to get caught up in being personally responsible for people’s salvation. (But) the Lord is the one who gets to do those things.”

● Owner and founding partner, Courtney Elder Law Associates, Madison

● Married to Ruthie

● Children: Twins Melissa and Melanie; Melissa is married to Wes McCleese and they have two sons, Will and Owen.

● Wise words: “Lawyers are trained to control things. (But) I have learned I don’t know what’s going to happen. I need to relax in my faith.”

Rev. Reginald Buckley

Rick Courtney

Brent Leach

Nathan Stamper

Katie Eubanks Ginn: Rev. Buckley, since you’re hosting us here at Cade, I’ll let you answer this one first: Who are your greatest spiritual influences?

Rev. Reginald Buckley: It started in the home, (with) my dad pastoring this church for 45 years.

About three weeks ago … someone had

posted one of his sermons from 1972 on YouTube … I heard that record all the time as a child, but now listening to it as an adult, I’m listening to social issues he was dealing with in that sermon that I never realized as a child. I’m like, wow, he was talking about the killings at JSU during that time. Just before, he was talking about the proliferation of weapons in the United States.

I got that honest, when I think about my

own preaching style and how I try to deal with those issues as well. I listen to my own sermons and I hear echoes of him.

Rick Courtney: (My spiritual influences go) back before my parents. My grandparents were just salt of the earth Christian folks from Copiah County. I would go down and spend some weeks and summers on (their) farm. My granddad would get up and make scrambled eggs and toast and read the Bible.

Brent Leach: I was blessed with a godly father and mother. I was brought up in church, where I had a youth pastor, Kevin Cooper, who … at the time, you didn’t realize you were being discipled, but when you look back … you see where the providence of God had men around you to show you how to be a follower of Christ.

Nathan Stamper: My parents loved the Lord. My dad worked for the MDOT (Mississippi Department of Transportation), and he’d be out the door at 4:30 every morning. But he’d get up early so he could read his Bible, and he’d leave it open to what he read. So when my sister and I woke up, that’s the first thing we saw.

I was also really close with my grandparents. I went to their tiny, country Methodist church. I was able to see those examples early on.

KG: Brent, you said you didn’t realize you were being discipled. Is there something to that? I’d love to hear what y’all think it takes to disciple young men.

BL: There’s an intentionality there. (My spiritual leaders) were all up in my business. My first year playing pro ball (for the Los Angeles Dodgers), I got injured, and I’d just gotten married, and I got sent back to Vero Beach. Every day after rehab, the chaplain would be there. ‘Can I take you to lunch?’

I was being pursued by a guy who saw something in me. I can hear myself (now) saying some of those things he said to me.

RC: My dad was not that active in the activities of the church with me, but he was supportive. But it was men in the church …. Particularly Norris Stampley, who worked for Mississippi Power and Light … he was like my surrogate dad, taking me to outings, to campouts … and I watched how he lived his life. And he and others taught Sunday school classes or church training union classes … and that’s where I (learned) what it was to be a Christlike follower on a daily basis.

PHOTOS BY STEGALL IMAGERY

Rev. Buckley says his dad was his greatest spiritual influence growing up. “I listen to my own sermons and I hear echoes of him.”

“At the time, you didn’t realize you were being discipled,” Brent says of the way his youth pastor, Kevin Cooper, poured into him.

RB: For me, it was both organic and systematic. It was organic, through the people God brought into your life naturally. But it was also systematic, through things like the Baptist Training Union for us … I can recall going on those camping trips.

Sometimes what seemed very organic to us … was very intentional. (The leaders would say to each other) ‘You need to check on him.’

NS: For my students, they want anybody who wants to be around them because of who they are — and not let them know there’s this intentionality behind it. So for years, really until my boys got a little older, my house was wide open, and every Sunday night kids were over, and we were walking through the scripture, we were cooking supper.

KG: How did each of you get into your current job or job field?

NS: I was studying history in college. And all I knew was that I wanted to be around students. I talked to my head professor … and he said, ‘People who study history do one of two things: They become lawyers, or they sell insurance. Do you want to do either one of those?’

RC: I’m a history minor. (laughter)

NS: That’s great for some! But I didn’t want to do that. And he said, ‘OK, go talk to this lady’ … she said, ‘I think being a teacher would put you around students constantly.’ So that’s what I did.

RB: I probably heard from the time that I could understand language that I was going to be a preacher. The older church mothers would hold me in their lap, give me a peppermint and say, ‘You’re going to be a preacher.’

I was a senior in high school, and I’d been wrestling with how God would use me …. I got my dad’s Bible and opened it up, and the first page that I opened it to, my eyes lock in on this scripture, ‘Woe be unto me if I preach not the gospel.’ And I shut the Bible and I put it down, and I was like, that’s my dad’s Bible. (laughs)

The Lord just kept reminding me of that scripture … and I was praying real intently about my calling (during grad school) … and I was at the cafeteria line … and the cafeteria worker who was serving the plates (stopped, locked eyes with me and said) ‘Young man, you’re being called to preach. And the reason I’m telling you this is because you’ve been seeking confirmation of your calling.’

I called my dad, told him what had happened, and he was like, ‘That sounds about right.’ … (But) he was never one to push us into that.

BL: I had a love for the church. People would say, ‘Don’t be surprised one day if God calls you to ministry.’ And I’d laugh and say, ‘We’re all called to ministry!’ I loved baseball, and I always thought probably coaching would be (my calling).

But I would get put in these situations where I would see this picture of a father when he does it right and he passes it on to his son. I just had this yearning desire — when the man’s good, the family’s good. So after I got done

with my pro ball career, (God) paved the way for me to be called into ministry.

God’s placed me around a bunch of men to look at and remind them of their calling as men, no matter where they are.

RC: In 1979, as I was early in the (law) practice with my dad, my daughters were born. Melissa is now married with two sons. Melanie has cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. They had different educational experiences.

Rick says he learned “what it was to be a Christlike follower on a daily basis” from men in his church.

Nathan started out studying history in college but wound up becoming a teacher instead. “All I knew was that I wanted to be around students,” he says.

(With Melanie) we realized there were Medicaid things that we thought were true that were not (and vice versa), and things we didn’t know about public benefits. I decided, I’m going to learn more about this as a lawyer. That evolved into elder law, because the issues are so much the same.

For the last 30 years plus, I’m exactly where I need to be (in my legal practice).

RB: There’s a lot that I got from what you just said, but one thing is, nothing is wasted. Everything, in its time, God shows how this part of us or that part of us … He brings it together.

KG: I’d love to hear how each of you met your wives.

BL: We’ve been best friends since our youth days, and in college we started dating.

A wife who’s walking with you doubles your ministry. I want to be that man that she desperately needs, but knowing that the Man she desperately needs (Jesus) is who I’m trying to be like.

She owns a Pilates studio in Brandon. It’s a neat little ministry where she gets to meet women from all walks of life. She complements me as much as I complement her. We’re rolling into our 17th year.

RB: My wife is amazing. We’re 26 years this year. We were married August 2, 1997. From the time we were married, she said to me, ‘Where you go, I will go.’

When we got married … we were grad students at Illinois, and I was in my first pastorate in Illinois. She’s doing really well in her career, teaching math at Purdue, and I come home and say to her, ‘I’m praying about this … but I think God wants us to move back home.’

We had said we’d move home to Mississippi when we were ready to retire. She gave up a lot (when we moved back sooner).

What I am as a pastor (is) because she is my wife.

NS: Is she still teaching?

RB: No, she’s actually at UMMC. Her PhD is in curriculum and instruction. … So she’s now over accreditation for the school of medicine.

NS: I think I’m the youngest as far as age of marriage. We’re starting our 13th year.

We met at Mississippi State. After about three months, I knew I was going to marry her. So I did what every college guy does when they don’t know what they’re doing, and I broke up with her. Then she was in a long relationship with another guy.

She (eventually) broke up with him. I took her to the Neshoba County Fair, and we started dating then.

It takes a special woman to be a coach’s wife. It feels like I never see her in the spring.

RC: My wife and I met at Alta Woods Baptist Church in south Jackson. She was in GA’s (Girls in Action) and I was in RA’s (Royal Ambassadors). We started dating at the end of our junior year of high school. We both went to MC from 1971 to ‘75.

Also like every guy who knows what he’s doing, I broke up with her my freshman year. We were back together by the end of the year. This summer we’ll be 48 years married.

When our daughters were born, she quit working full time and started working as a secretary for the head of the Board of Ministerial Education at the Mississippi Baptist Convention.

We taught Sunday school together, and they always wanted to hear her teach, never me. I’m the logical, linear, rational thinker. She is intuitive, thoughtful, warm, and that really pulls people. Whenever there’s a question in our lives, I ask, ‘What do you think, darlin’?’ And whatever she says, that’s probably what we’re going to do.

KG: What are the biggest lessons God has taught y’all — whether in marriage, ministry or career?

NS: I see students for about four years. That’s all I get (with them). I think the biggest thing is that the work of the Lord is not up to me. It’s up to me to plant the seeds, but the Lord produces the harvest. As long as I’m being obedient …

RC: I think a lesson for me is to let go and let God. I’m a linear, analytical person. Lawyers are trained to control things. (But) I have learned I don’t know what’s going to happen. I need to relax in my faith.

BL: There’s Brent’s will, and there’s God’s will. We’ve got to die to ourselves, pick up our cross and follow Him.

RB: Probably in month five or six (of having virtual church due to COVID), I got up and took a walk, and I wept like a baby. And my wife came and found me.

There (was) no manual for this. How do you shepherd sheep that you can’t see, who are in the hospital, and I’ve got to FaceTime with people who I know are about to die, and that’s the best I can do?

RB (continued): Your metrics for success are suddenly likes on YouTube. And you’re trying not to get sucked into that. You’re preaching for the amens, and you don’t have the amens. You don’t have the heads nodding.

I think the lesson learned from that (was) that it’s not up to us. It (was) getting to the point of, I’ve got to let God handle this, because I can’t. (But) God is big enough, He’s strong enough, and He knows enough to handle the things we don’t know or understand. Y

“ There (was) no manual for (pastoring virtually during COVID). How do you shepherd sheep that you can’t see, who are in the hospital, and I’ve got to FaceTime with people who I know are about to die … ? I think the lesson learned from that (was) that it’s not up to us.

(was) getting to the point of, I’ve got to let God handle

PHOTO BY STEGALL IMAGERY

Serve the sinner, forgive the sin

Last month I had the luxury of moderating a discussion called “The Man Cave” at a statewide conference for public health professionals and stakeholders.

The purpose of “The Man Cave” was to be a safe space for men to discuss issues men face when having to encounter the healthcare system, and how we could overcome barriers to men receiving the healthcare they need to improve their health outcomes.

My wife wanted to come, and I told her she couldn’t because this session was only for men. Then I walked into a conference room packed with women. It made for invigorating discussions, but in post-day reflections I realized that the room was full of men who sleep with men (MWSM) and healthcare workers who serve them to help mitigate the spread of disease in their community.

I got to thinking that as a straight man in healthcare, I often limit myself to serving either women or seemingly straight men, because as a Christian man, I was taught that MWSM are sinners. I had come to terms with the idea that if I couldn’t influence a person’s behavior and empower them to make better decisions, then I didn’t want to serve them. How shallow of me.

Sin is sin, and judge it, but I wasn’t judging the people who came in visibly obese. I wasn’t judging people who have Type 2 diabetes or other preventable diseases brought on by poor decisions. So what gave me the right to judge this one? I would like to apologize to them formally and publicly. I felt like I was bound by my Christianity to not extend my practice into their community, when the Lord called me to serve, not to judge. Their community faces the same disease risk as anyone else, and “The Man Cave” helped me see their humanity.

All actions — whether it be consistently eating too much, sedentary behavior, cheating on your spouse, or sleeping with someone of the same sex — have an outcome. We as Christians aren’t here to judge the people who commit those actions, even when the outcome is unfavorable or visible. We are here to serve everyone regardless of their decisions.

One of the main things that stands out about men’s health is the reluctance of men to do their due diligence, take control of their health, and make better, informed decisions. Men’s reluctance to visit a primary care provider or inform themselves on their health is astounding, and their reasons vary from distrust to fear of condemnation.

If we are to reach men properly, we must look inward first and understand that our job is to serve humanity with the gifts, abilities and resources God has given us, judgment free. Once we do that, we will begin to see God move in men’s health like never before. Just because we serve the sinner doesn’t mean we are condoning the sin. Jesus served the sinner to forgive the sin. Y

“ I got to thinking that as a straight man in healthcare, I often limit myself to serving either women or seemingly straight men…. if I couldn’t influence a person’s behavior and empower them to make better decisions, then I didn’t want to serve them. How shallow of me.”

Chris Fields is the founder and executive director of H.E.A.L. Mississippi and a graduate in kinesiology with advance studies in nutrition. He serves as a clinical exercise physiologist/CPT and is credentialed in Exercise Is Medicine through American College of Sports Medicine.

Seminary celebrates 50 years of teaching truth

At her seminary graduation last month, Lindsay Williams — an associate pastor in Jackson who was receiving her master’s of divinity — said Ridgeland-based Wesley Biblical Seminary (WBS) had equipped her to “preach the plain truth.” Lindsay was borrowing a phrase from John Wesley, founder of the Methodist movement and the man for whom WBS is named.

Wesley got his “plain truth” from the Bible, and that same biblical truth is what WBS has been committed to for nearly half a century, as the seminary will celebrate 50 years in 2024.

“We have a 50-year history of not compromising as culture has redefined things,” said WBS President Dr. Matt Ayars. “We do not budge on the doctrine of the truthfulness of scripture (as other seminaries have).”

Take that unwavering stance, and couple it with WBS’ small physical footprint — an unassuming one-story building on County Line Road — and one might wonder if the school is struggling in today’s spiritual climate.

Far from it: WBS has seen a 135 percent

enrollment increase over the last five years and has no debt, even while offering free tuition in 2021. Instead of taking out loans to maintain a large campus, they hold classes via video, thus reducing overhead and increasing accessibility to students all over the world.

Still, the seminary is looking to ensure its stability for decades to come. So, coinciding with its 50th anniversary, WBS is embarking on a fundraising effort called the Steadfast Campaign to raise over $4 million in endowment funds.

“(This will allow us) to greatly expand our influence and reach in the fulfillment of our mission,” said Ayars, which is to “develop trusted leaders for faithful churches” — even as the church landscape shifts.

WBS is one of only six seminaries where ministers can take the courses needed to be ordained in the newly formed Global Methodist Church (GMC), and one of only two such seminaries with a specific course of study tailored to GMC requirements (with no “extra” courses).

The GMC formed on May 1, 2022, in

response to theological differences within the United Methodist Church (UMC), and the ripples are still being felt. More than 200 United Methodist churches in Mississippi, and six percent of United Methodist churches worldwide, have voted to disaffiliate from the UMC, though not all have opted to join the GMC.

Thousands of Methodist churches will be without pastors because of the split, and the same issues that divided the UMC can cause anxiety as congregations search for new leadership.

“So many churches are looking for a trusted pastor,” Ayars said. “(If the pastor went to another seminary, you might wonder) ‘I don’t know if they believe in gay marriage or not.’”

Most Bible-believing churches see doctrines of sexuality as important enough to split over, partly because traditional marriage between one man and one woman is such a biblically based picture of Christ and the church, and thus the gospel itself, Ayars said.

“There’s a spectrum of progressive Christianity” that he and WBS want to avoid, he said — which often manifests in issues like

From left: Austin Roberson, Lindsay Williams, Nate Clark, and Akashi Nishigata at their graduation from Wesley Biblical Seminary on Saturday, May 6.

sexuality, but is rooted in whether the Bible is God’s Word. “It goes all the way from feeling guilty for being a Christian, to universalism,” believing there are ways to God other than faith in Christ, Ayars said.

That drift toward “progressive Christianity” at the cost of biblical doctrine is part of the reason for WBS’ Steadfast Campaign. The donor packet notes:

“Many believe that the days are numbered for faithful Christian schools to be eligible to receive federally funded financial aid as a consequence of refusing to subscribe to the doctrine of secularism. Losing that funding will result in losing students because students greatly depend on government financial aid.”

WBS was offering free tuition when recent MDiv graduate Nate Clark decided to enroll. A worship leader at a church in Smyrna, Tennessee, Nate heard from a college friend that Wesley was “biblically solid.” He was hesitant about attending classes via Zoom, but “I fell in love with it,” he said.

“You draw really close to everyone. The professors, it’s not just academic. They really pour into you. You get orthodox teaching. I was able to apply it right away, too.”

Similarly, free tuition and the personal

connection to his professors and instructors were big factors for Austin Roberson, who also graduated in May with his MDiv. In addition, “(WBS has) really helped me integrate my seminary education and my church work together,” he said.

While Nate and Austin thrived in virtual classes at WBS, a student from much further away was one of few in recent years who actually attended WBS in person.

Akashi Nishigata of Tokyo came to classes on campus at WBS for a year and a half after attending Bible college in Kentucky and Ohio. For his final semester at WBS, he returned to Japan and attended online. Regardless of the medium, he said his favorite aspect of WBS was “reading the Bible many times for assignments.” Now that he has his MDiv, Akashi will pursue further studies in Japan.

In the WBS donor packet, Akashi says, “WBS has taught me the importance of a spiritual relationship with God through a devotional life and how to serve others both in and out of the church. It has prepared me to study the Bible well and teach biblically to others, but most importantly, it has taught me to serve others.” Y

About the endowment and the Steadfast Campaign

“An endowment is a long-term savings account with a large principal,” Ayars said. “It’s sitting in an account, and it’s invested. We can pull down a percentage of the capital gains each year to help with operational expenses. You never spend the principle (but) it ensures ongoing income.”

WBS’ current endowment sits at approximately $3 million. Compare that to larger seminaries, in the tens of millions, or Harvard, which is in the billions. WBS hopes to raise $4 million in mostly endowed funds via the Steadfast Campaign, including $3 million in the next three years.

“One and a half million will be for endowed scholarships, to pay ourselves for all the tuition we’re giving away,” Ayars said. “Two million will be for endowed faculty chairs, one of theological studies and one of biblical studies.”

Akashi Nishigata, (center left) with his family and mentor, WBS professor emeritus Dr. Paul Tashiro, center right.

Lindsay Williams (right) receives her master’s of divinity from WBS President Dr. Matt Ayars on Saturday, May 6.

Nate Clark (right) receives his MDiv from Ayars.

Austin Roberson walks during the WBS graduation ceremony.

For 70 years, St. Dominic’s Auxiliary supports patients, hospital

The St. Dominic’s Auxiliary has existed almost as long as the hospital has been operating — for 70 years. It offers services to the hospital and its patients while promoting the health and welfare of the community. From volunteering to fundraising, the auxiliary’s 200 members are ready to offer support for St. Dominic’s patients, loved ones and team members.

Joanne Pearson is the current auxiliary president. Her daughter, Tracy Grenfell, is a past president, and once Pearson retired from her career, Grenfell recruited her mom to participate.

“I originally served as co-chair for the Calendar of Thanks fundraising committee. It’s one of my favorite projects,” said Pearson. “I love helping the patients and hospital and getting to know all the members.”

Since 1999, the auxiliary has raised approximately $500,000. This money has supported the Cancer Center, Chapel, Pastoral Care, Adult Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, St. Catherine’s Village and more.

The auxiliary also has helped fund:

• Museum in the South Lobby

• Fountain outside the South Lobby

• Large flag seen from I-55

• Wheelchairs for medical mall patient transport

• REACH telemedicine cart

• Machines/software for Oncology Services

• Behavioral Health special chairs

• Shuttle cart

Auxiliary fundraisers include:

• Masquerade Jewelry Sale

• Calendar of Thanks

• Team Member Appreciation Week

• Partners in Hope

• Lights of Love

• Sisters’ Appreciation Tea

Lights of Love

A glowing light twinkled through the St. Dominic Medical Mall lobby in December while Christmas caroling voices echoed through the building. It was the Lights of Love ceremony, which the auxiliary has led for more than 20 years. Candles were purchased in honor or in memory of loved ones, and funds raised will help renovate St. Dominic’s prayer room.

Threads that bind

Once a month, auxiliary members gather to sew blankets for St. Dominic’s palliative care patients and newborns. They call it the “Prayer Blanket Ministry.”

“It is heartwarming to know so many merchants support our Prayer Blanket Ministry,” said Charlene Bullock, auxiliary member and project organizer. “Plus, I love being part of an organization making a difference in the lives of those around us. I have made many friendships by being a part of the auxiliary.”

“The auxiliary’s fundraising has given numerous departments much-needed patient care equipment, supplies and comfort measures,” added Aimee Burrow, volunteer services manager. “Their prayer blanket initiative serves our patients year-round. We are so appreciative of the auxilians and their efforts to enhance our Christian healing ministry.”

Pearson added that she is excited about what the future holds for the auxiliary and wants to recruit more members. “Volunteering with the auxiliary allows us to share ideas, help our patients and give back to St. Dominic’s. We have a highly engaged group and a committed board, and we look forward to maintaining our support for St. Dominic’s patients, staff, and the greater community,” Pearson said.

To learn more about St. Dominic’s Auxiliary, visit stdom.com/programs/auxiliary or email auxiliary@stdom.com. Y

No other set of books, except the Bible, will prepare the reader for an abundant life NOW and for a glorious ETERNITY better than Hallelujah, Love & War and The Sound of Glorious Marriage Music. These books can be reviewed and purchased at amazon.com. Select Books and type in “by Joe Ragland.”

St. Dominic’s Auxiliary members meet monthly to sew blankets for the Prayer Blanket Ministry.

Cartoonist and pastor on being ‘60 and better’

My 88-year- old mother, struggling with physical handicaps, sometimes jokingly asked, “Where are the golden years that everyone talks about? I’m still looking for them.” Del Webb and his company coined the term when they developed the first retirement communities, promoting a life of leisure for those in their “golden years.”

Let’s be realistic. Anything but golden, our lives are often more complex and challenging after 60. But despite the challenges and changes, the years beyond 60 can also be our most rewarding and productive.

Octogenarian Joe McKeever, pastor and cartoonist, retired at age 69. In his blog post “How to Get Old and Love It,” Joe wrote, “While we may retire from salaried positions, we stay with the calling.”

That is precisely what Joe and his wife, Bertha, are doing. Together they travel across the Southeast and speak at senior gatherings. Joe also preaches, blogs, and draws cartoons and caricatures. In their book “Sixty and Better! Making the Most of our Golden Years,” Joe and Bertha share godly wisdom, encouragement, cartoons and humor while answering questions about this age and stage of life.

What made me want to learn more about Joe was something I read on his Facebook page:

The message I often preach to senior adults: Don’t quit now! Five Solid Reasons Not to Quit:

1) It’s just getting good.

2) You’re doing your best work for the Lord now.

3) You do not know what God is doing through you.

4) The end is in sight. You can see the lights of home in the distance.

5) Others are watching you. Your faithfulness encourages them. So be faithful! Keep at it. This is no time to slack off.

Recently, I asked Joe for his top encouragement tips for the “golden years.” The following is from that conversation and his book:

Live in the Psalms. The older we get, the more this wonderful collection of hymns seems to speak our language, to understand us, and to know where we live and how to touch us in the deepest, most personal places. Stay busy. Bertha crochets and is an adjunct professor. I (Joe) am involved with drawing and reading all the time.

Laugh often. After my cancer situation some 20 years ago, I pulled all the “Reader’s Digest” magazines I had saved and read all the jokes and short stories. Laughter is the best medicine.

Walk. While walking, I can think and talk to the Lord and go over a sermon I’m about to preach.

Reflecting on Psalm 92:12-15, Joe wrote:

God is promising and predicting that those who live for Him through the years, enjoying what Eugene Peterson called “a long obedience in the same

direction,” will be fruitful in their old age, as well as youthful, beautiful and truthful. I’m for that!

If you would like to order Joe and Bertha’s book and other publications, or have Joe come to speak, please contact him at 504-6152190 or visit joemckeever.com.

How has God redefined your retirement? Y

At this age and stage of her life, Laura Lee Leathers focuses on “Helping You Flourish in Faith & Finish Well by His Word.” She is an award-winning freelance writer, speaker, and mentor. She has started the Facebook group scribes4HIM to connect with writers. But her favorite thing to do is host Nana’s Weekend for her grandchildren. Connect with her at laura.l.leathers@gmail.com or visit lauraleeleathers.com.

A Joe McKeever cartoon created exclusively for MCL.

The McKeevers’ book offers wisdom, encouragement, cartoons and humor.

~ PSALMS 103:13, NIV

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

~ EPHESIANS 6:4, NIV

God in his holy dwelling is a father of the fatherless and a champion of widows.

~ PSALMS 68:5, CSB

And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

~ MATTHEW 12:49-50, ESV

For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God.

~ EPHESIANS 2:18-19, KJV

And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.

~ 2 CORINTHIANS 6:18, ESV

Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: but when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.

~ GALATIANS 4:3-5, KJV

I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.

I write to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.

A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.

~ PROVERBS 10:1B, ESV

And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” Having said this, He breathed His last.

~ LUKE 24:36, NKJV

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba, Father!”

~ ROMANS 8:15, ESV

For this reason [grasping the greatness of this plan by which Jews and Gentiles are joined together in Christ] I bow my knees [in reverence] before the Father [of our Lord Jesus Christ], from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name [God — the first and ultimate Father].

~ EPHESIANS 3:14-15, AMP

And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.

~ 1 PETER 1:17-19, ESV

CUT OUT THE SCRIPTURES AND QUOTES AND PLACE THEM AROUND YOUR HOME FOR DAILY ENCOURAGEMENT!

As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion for those who fear him.

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