BACF (Page 1)
Transcription
BACF (Page 1)
SAFE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! 94FMtheFish.net POSITIVE MUSIC THAT KEEPS YOU FEELING GOOD EVERY TIME YOU LISTEN! Tune in now and hear a refreshing blend of music that’s Safe for the Whole Family… positive music from Third Day, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, tobyMac, Jeremy Camp, Brandon Heath, Matthew West, Natalie Grant, Tenth Avenue North and more. It’s your favorite Christian music from 94 FM THE FISH! START YOUR DAY WITH YOUR FAMILY FRIENDLY MORNING SHOW Join the Family Friendly Morning Show with Doug and Jaci weekdays 5-9 am. You know Jaci from her 16 #1 radio hits and 4 million albums sold. She joins Doug to start your mornings on an absolutely positive and uplifting note. 94FMtheFish.net ® Publisher: Robert Stringfellow [email protected] OUR MISSION Nashville Christian Family ® exists to provide Christians and the community at large with ways to strengthen and grow as a part of the Middle Tennessee Christian Family. This local monthly publication is designed to promote positive living by sharing with readers of all ages relevant and timely news and information related to health, faith, parenting, youth, finances, Christian entertainment, missions, church leaders, and much more. Editor: Raymonda Jaggers Contributing Writers: Brian Burke Ashley McMackin Perry Coghlan Ronnie McBrayer Mark Cornelius David Pridmore Tammy Daughtry Barbara Rucker Ellen Diederich Wendy Schreiber Stacy Dunn Reba Stanley Ted Gleason Steve Stride, PhD Stacy Jagger Laurie Stroud Charlie Kaser Trey Talley Greg Ketteman, EdD Scott Lehman Jason Lindsey Art Direction: Hope Chastain, Hbc Designs Sales & Marketing: Robert Stringfellow Printer: Franklin Web Printing Cover Photo Credit: FROM THE PUBLISHER “Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day.” Genesis 1:31 (NKJV) “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22 (NKJV) Courtesy Southern Women’s Show Nashville Christian Family is published monthly by Clarion Concepts, P.O. Box 463, Spring Hill, TN 37174. The phone number is 615-815-8765. E-mail [email protected]. The fax num® ber is 615-369-8845. Reproduction of any part of Nashville Christian Family without permission of the Publisher is prohibited. Distribution of this paper does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Views expressed in Nashville Christian Family do not necessarily represent those of the Publisher. Every effort has been made by Nashville Christian Family 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 2013 by The Christian Family Publication, Inc. Unless otherwise noted, scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society. Circulation & Distribution: Nashville Christian Family is free and available at targeted, high traffic locations throughout Williamson County. 10,000 copies are printed each month. Copies are available by subscription, $25 for one year (12 issues). To subscribe, e-mail [email protected]. For me, September is one of a couple of “transitional” months during the year. It may be for you as well. The kids are back in school, Labor Day signals the end of summer vacations, daylight time is growing shorter and another football season is getting underway. Yes, autumn and fall are in the air. One reason that I love this time of year is the beautiful changing of colors of the foliage on trees and plants that will begin toward the end of the month. To me, this serves as a strong reminder and example of the awesome and incomprehensible power of God through His creation and order of the universe and this earth that we inhabit. During fall and autumn I try to give thanks to God daily, not only for the literal beauty of the world we live in, but for Him blessing me by allowing me to enjoy His creation with all of my senses. Sometimes I tend to take for granted the beauty of creation. Maybe you do also. If that is the case, during the next few weeks, please make a special effort with yourself and your family to simply slow down and take time to enjoy the “beauty of creation” and give thanks to God, the creator of it all. Also, with your family, read in entirety Genesis 1 and Psalm 104. Enjoy and appreciate what the Lord has made. “O Lord, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all. The earth is full of Your possessions...” Psalm 104:24 (NKJV) THANKS FOR READING! Proud member of SUPPORT US BY SUPPORTING OUR ADVERTISERS FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 615-815-8765 ® — Nashville Christian Family is a part of The Christian Family Publication, Inc. celebrating 13 years of Good News! Visit www.NCFPublications.com www.tnchristianchamber.org September 2013 3 Your purchases support Goodwill’s mission to create jobs and provide job training. Combine that with our 20 years of sign and printing expertise, and the most up-to-date printing technologies, and you get comprehensive print solutions that do more than help your business grow. From custom signs and vinyl banners to vehicle graphics and photo-to-canvas prints, your orders make a difference in the lives of Tennesseans. Design and order your custom products at goodwillsignsolutions.com. Need to talk it through first? We offer free consultations and quotes. Call us at (615) 346-1205 or come by our shop at 107 Taylor Street in Nashville. signs for good goodwillsignsolutions.com (615) 346-1205 We are getting great results, We are getting dollar. great results, and top and top dollar. &DOOPHWRVFKHGXOHD And &DOOPHWRVFKHGXOHD QRREOLJDWLRQFRQVXOWDWLRQ QRREOLJDWLRQFRQVXOWDWLRQ ´,QWHJULW\3URIHVVLRQDOLVPLQ ´,QWHJULW\3URIHVVLRQDOLVPLQ 5HDO(VWDWHµ 5HDO(VWDWHµ Who is delivering the highest sales price in Middle TN? [email protected] www.SilverPointe.com RIILFH Mike Newman REALTOR FHOO www.mnewman.silverpointe.com 4 Nashville Christian Family The Nashville Business Journal, 3-29-13, reported that Silver Point Properties led the market with the highest average sales price for 2012! www.NCFPublications.com September 2013 C ONTENTS Volume 5, Number 2 Departments 3 From the Publisher 7 Parent with a Purpose • Time Moves On – Use It Wisely With Your Children ON THE COVER 14 Grandparents Day is September 8 and Kay Robertson (second from left) shares how the influence of her grandmother shaped her faith and her passion for cooking the meals she is so well known for on the A&E reality show, Duck Dynasty, page 14. 17 Sports in Christianity 21 Keep The Faith FEATURES 6 Should Your Child Attend a Christian College? 17 Is Sports Your “God?” 19 Tailgate Time 21 Keep On Keeping On NEXT ISSUE Fall Family Fun! 8 Family Matters • Nurture Your Family Bonds 9 Mission Makers • Meet a 101 Year Old Lady 10 Teachable Moments • Christianity and God’s Favor Is Not a Competition 11 Youth News • Back To School Tips For Teens 11 The Single Life • If Children of a Divorce Are In Your Family – Listen and Learn 7 12 Body & Soul • Don’t Worry – Be Happy – Laugh and Relieve Stress • The Inevitable 18 Life Matters • How Will Tenneseans Respond? 18 Faith at Work • Do “Good Guys” Go to Heaven? 19 Money Matters • From the Desk of Dave Ramsey 20 Kid’s Korner • Kids Get Connected With the Bible Using Simple Science Experiments • Keep Close Tabs On the “Messages” Your Child Is Getting 21 Healthy Living • Great Tips For Family Life and Diet 10 22 In His Grip • Are You Living Precisely For Christ? 23 Faith Under Fire • As Believers, We Live in Very Troubled Times 23 Hassle Free Zone • “It” Will Catch Up With You 24 The Great Commission • Turn the Other Cheek No Matter What – Keep On Witnessing 25 Fellowship of Christian Athletes • Meet the New Director of FCA of Greater Nashiville PLUS MUCH MORE! 25 Plan for Salvation 26 Calendar 26 Advertising Directory 12 September 2013 5 F EATURE Helping Your Child Search For a College …Without Losing Their Religion A source of anxiety for many high school seniors and their parents is the decision about where to go to college. Many Christian families struggle over whether to choose a religiously affiliated school or a secular one. Some Christian parents demand that their children choose Christian schools, while others don’t make it a stipulation. Finances, most always, are another determining factor. Some opt for the lower costs of in-state schools or may accept scholarship opportunities. It is definitely a pervasive decision that involves taking many things into consideration. The positive side of this dilemma is that it is not a decision that has to be made overnight. Regardless what type of school that is being looked into, starting the decision making process early will help avoid a panicked senior year. Applications should be sent in months before graduation, so it is not wise to wait until senior year to get serious about college. “The earlier you can gain a perspective on the choices that are out there, the better.” says Emily Joyce of Franklin, TN. She and her husband, Paul, often incorporate visits to college campuses during their vacations with their two children. Having started these visits well before middle school, Emily admits that there have been times when the biggest draw has been visiting a school that has a sports team or a stadium the children were interested in. That’s fine with the Joyces. They believe the point is to get accustomed to seeing college campuses and to start thinking about the decision that they will one day face. After all, unless commuting, it will be home for a few years. If considering a religious school, the choice should be narrowed to how much religious integration you are looking for. This will vary with each school. Some wear the name, but no longer adhere to any moral or religious training for students. Others integrate it into all aspects of campus life. Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee has long had the motto, “teaching how to live and how to make a living,” indicating that the students will receive more than just training for the business world. Your visits to campuses of interest will allow you to determine quite quickly how much emphasis is placed on moral standards. It is a good idea to plan a trip that will allow you to be at the school while classes are in session, but seeing weekend life is critical also. This will give you a time to notice many details you can’t get from a pamphlet or commercial. For example, “Is there a dress code?” “Is there any restraint between males and females in public areas?” “Are there separate dorms for males and females?” Colleges and universities vary widely on what is acceptable on campus. “Christian schools” will have the most regulations; most will even have enforced curfews. State schools will be much more lax, but will still have some rules. 6 Nashville Christian Family However, private schools, not religiously affiliated, will generally be extremely liberal with what is allowed. While every college doesn’t offer every field of study, it is important to find a school that offers the training desired as well as one that is accredited. Choosing a Christian university that does not offer a prospective student’s field of study is probably not going to be the best thing. Helping your emerging adult investigate where he can thrive spiritually and academically should be the goal. An accredited school must meet certain standards that ensure a quality education. If a student transfers from an unaccredited school, credits may not be accepted by another college. These types of colleges often don’t have the respect in the business world and may hinder employment opportunities. If a school with no religious ties is chosen, it is important to determine if there will be a nearby place to worship with others. Find out if there are any private groups that hold Bible studies, etc. It can allow for bonding quickly with others that have similar morals. With binge drinking parties and lewd activities so common on many campuses, it is important to establish relationships with those that have higher standards. Depending on the school, professors may be anti-Christian, even looking for opportunities to discredit the Bible. However, some Christian college students believe the environment gives them an opportunity to be the salt of the world and the light of the earth. It can be an exceptional opportunity for them to teach those they meet. Others may not be ready to do this, or the temptations of participating in worldly behavior may be too much for them to turn down. Money will no doubt be part of your planning. Many schools allow students to work on campus with payment going toward tuition. Colleges will often help you with applying for financial aid if needed. Choosing a college is just one of the many choices we help our children make along the way. It is important for kids to know that their parents went before the Lord in prayer about all of life’s great decisions. Hopefully, they themselves are spending significant time in prayer and desiring God’s help. If they have learned this, they are already on the path to success. The fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:16) — Wendy Schreiber Wendy is a freelance writer who resides in Franklin with her husband and two children. www.NCFPublications.com PARENT WITH A P URPOSE Hear the Clock “What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” James 4:14 A few years ago I read an article by a writer whose stuff I have been reading for over 30 years. He has had a profound impact upon my life and thinking these many years. Of the many, many, many books and articles I have read one regularly comes to mind. It is the article from which I got the title to this post. On of this writer’s favorite one-liners was “procrastination kills!” He’s right. My sixty years of life have attested to the truth of that admonishment, time and time again. It kills opportunities. It kills relationships. It kills businesses. It kills the present for a hoped for but not guaranteed future time and opportunity. He was waxing eloquent about procrastination and began to describe the time in his life where “the light came on.” It was in his early twenties. He described it this way: “I began to hear the clock ticking.” (The author is now in his seventies.) He went on to admonish the reader to listen for the ticking of the clock because all of us only have a certain, measured number of “ticks” in our life. There will come the time, he wrote, when we start the countdown of the last ten of them: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1…then eternity. Unlike the author I did not begin to hear the “ticking” of the clock until much later in life. I can say though, when it becomes clear in your mind, and central in your life, you begin to think and rethink how you spend your time. You begin to reevaluate outlook about relationships (and hopefully) change for the better. As the parent of six adult children I can tell you how easily I can fill myself with regret about the misspent time and wasted opportunities I now see, in hindsight, in my life. A regret that can become paralyzing, except for the hope and promise of the Gospel. For years now I have admonished our children,“live in such a way that your life won’t be filled with regrets when you get older.” I wish someone had told me that very early in my life and brought me to understand what it means. Parents, childhood is NOT a dress rehearsal. You don’t get “do-overs.” You don’t get two chances to shape and influence your child(ren) so that they come to love truth, beauty, and goodness. You don’t have unlimited time and opportunities to show them how to “…love justice, do mercy, and walk humbly before your God.” Listen for the sound of “the clock ticking.” Hear the sound of the countdown to the end of your life and theirs. Teach them to value good relationships, love laughter, forgive quickly, put away bitterness, and confess their sins and faults to others. Don’t let the cuteness of your child distract or deter you from the training you must do. Enjoy the cuteness but keep the sound of the clock ticking in mind. It is true, as folks will say often with warning in their voice,“they grow up quickly.” Don’t procrastinate. Spend lots of time with them. Make it a habit so that you become, very early in their life, the most important influence in their life, in both word and deed. Don’t procrastinate. Tick-tock, hear the clock. — Perry Coghlan Perry is a husband for over 42 years, father to six, grandfather to 18, and with his wife Patsy, co-founder of Spring Hill Academy, a Christian and Classical school, in Spring Hill, TN. New Year. No Problem. Don’t let new subjects create unnecessary anxiety in your child. Tutoring Club’s exclusive TutorAid programs can help your child head back to school with confidence. Guaranteed. Comprehensive Assessment of each individual student means no guess work about what your child knows or needs to know. Personalized Learning Plan based on your child’s strengths and developmental areas, continually updated to focus on problem areas and accelerate progress. Proven Programs that have helped thousands of children succeed over the past 21 years. Individualized Instruction with certified teachers. A Full Range of the Latest Educational Materials makes it easier for children to progress at an accelerated rate. A Highly Effective Motivational System provides incentives for learning and effort. CONTACT TUTORING CLUB TODAY TO ENROLL FRANKLIN 1001 Westhaven BLVD Suite 150 970.0525 NOLENSVILLE 7177 Nolensville Rd. A7 776.7054 tutoringclub.com September 2013 7 FAMILY M ATTERS Oxytocin: The Key to Intimate Bonding for Couples A recent family gathering reminded me of the importance of intimate bonding. That gathering took place when my family and I enjoyed a wonderful three-week vacation on the west coast. In addition to seeing many exciting tourist sights (the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, the Painted Dessert, Carlsbad Caverns, lava flows in New Mexico, Disneyland, Sea World, the famous San Diego Zoo, and—even—Smoky Bear’s gravesite and museum), we also enjoyed seeing other relatives along the way. One family gathering at TGI Fridays is most memorable. My relatives like to hug and show lots of affection, and this gathering was in no short supply of both. As we said our good-byes, I felt so full and contented, and those feelings were not simply the result of the fabulous meal we had consumed. I knew exactly why I felt such peace because I had spent months researching the impact of oxytocin (OT). OT, a neuropeptide that has been called the “cuddle hormone,” has been associated with attachment, specifically in mother-infant bonding behaviors and monogamous couple bonding behaviors. Bonding behavior is closely tied to sexuality, the capacity to have intimate and erotic experiences and responses within and while in a meaningful and satisfying relationship. Medical practitioners realize the importance of flesh-to-flesh connections, so doctors place a newborn on the chest of the mother. Physical contact is a piece of the bonding ritual that impacts the infant relationally, forming bonds with others and setting the stage for secure attachment, beginning with mother and proliferating to connections with loved ones. This community of love is the fabric and foundation of loving trust that allows the infant to feel safe with his or her mother and others in the world. Less obvious is the bonding that takes place when loving touch is in place. OT galvanizes the bond between two people and produces positive feelings about self and increases trust in the moment, laying the foundation for trust and fidelity in monogamous couples. When OT levels are high for couples, they experience an increase in eye gaze, greater recognition of positive characteristics in one’s partner, and stronger feelings of contentment. OT is produced at high levels when hugs, massage, sexual arousal, or orgasm take place with someone with whom a long-term monogamous relational bond exists. Here is the most important part: Research has shown that OT is critical to the bonding process; therefore, couples should take steps to intentionally increase OT levels in order to enhance positive interactions. Couples can take simple steps can to increase their OT levels. Kissing intimately for about 20 seconds before and after work is a great way to stay connected (and, please, do not time your kisses!). Hug twice a week for at least 2 minutes. Hold hands on a regular basis and remember to do so when you are having discussions—even when having a heated argument. Getting really mad is difficult to do when you are holding hands and looking into one another’s eyes. Make it a point to incorporate sensuous massage into the bonding repertoire. It is quite relaxing and provides a huge boost to OT production. Certainly these suggestions are not the only ways to increase bonding through physical touch, but for some these may be helpful as starting points.. — Steve Stride, PhD Associate Professor, Graduate Counseling Program, Trevecca Nazarene University Dr. Stride, a licensed psychologist in the state of Tennessee, works with couples to enhance emotional and sexual intimacy within their marriages. His office is located in Mount Juliet. He can be contacted at [email protected] or www.intimacyquest.org. 8 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com M ISSION M AKERS An Amazing Experience I met a 110-year old woman. She had beautiful shoulder-length silver hair, tan skin and a twinkle in her hazel eyes. Without a cane or eyeglasses, she walked into the free health clinic at the edge of the Amazon Basin with her 78-year old daughter. Joining an American medical mission team sponsored by e3 Partners of Dallas, there were doctors, dentists and nurses. Some provided health care, nutrition talks, prayer, water filtration systems and others were good with the kids. I fit into the latter category. In the land of fiery red butterflies and cobalt blue hummingbirds the size of robins, children appeared from all directions the moment we inflated beach balls and tossed them into the Amazon sky. When coloring books and crayons were dispersed, they brought their pictures over for approval just like American children. I smiled and said,“Muy bonita” to a 7-year-old girl who returned to me five times. Precious. Our interpreters knew the game Simon Says, or Simondei Says as they call it and took pleasure in telling us what to do. Everyone quickly learned Duck, Duck Goose and enjoyed laughing at the over-50 kids running around the circle. Humor and making fun is universal no matter what language. We provided reading glasses to hundreds in need. One woman was overjoyed to see again and offered me a gold ring with a lovely pink stone. Initially I wanted to refuse it, but my interpreter informed me this would be an insult. It was a token of appreciation. I received the gift. We both cried. Daily we used Evangicubes. Inspired by the Rubik’s Cube, an e3 staffer came up with the idea to share the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection in pictures on an ever-changing cube. When I shared the story of the Gospel with the 110-year old woman, she told the interpreter she knew who Jesus was. I told him to reply, “Everyone knows who Jesus is, that’s not the question. Do you have a personal relationship with Him?” She fell silent. Then we asked,“If you died tomorrow, answer why God would let you into heaven?” She admitted: “I’m not sure.” I told her that salvation is a free gift, we cannot earn it. And yet like any gift, it must be received. All gifts are to be opened and enjoyed. Within minutes she prayed to receive forgiveness of her sins and Jesus as her Savior. Precious. RANKED R AN ANKED KED TOP TOP 50 BBY U U.S .S ..News News ews & WWORLD ORLD D REPORT REPOR PO T I asked the interpreter to inquire of her diet as I wanted to look that good at 110! She told him their diet is limited to what is available in the small mountain village: chicken, rice, eggs, bananas and cacao which is the purest form of chocolate. All my favorite foods, I’m good. The truth is we may not have another 60 years here. The Bible reads that no man knows the day or hour and also that the kingdom of heaven is at hand. That means near. That trip was three summers ago before the living Savior rocked my world by transplanting me to Nashville.“For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.” (Joel 3:14) — Ellen Diederich Ellen is a free lance writer of articles, children’s books, devotionals and songs. She is on staff with CBN-700 Club Nashville. Ellen enjoys speaking to groups to motivate them to share their faith. September 2013 9 T EACHABLE M OMENTS Seeing Stars On the wall of my childhood Sunday School class was a giant, gridlined poster board that looked sort of like an Excel spreadsheet. There was a place for each child’s name, and then all of these vacant boxes running to the right, eager to be filled with shining gold stars. Did you bring an offering? Put a gilded check in the box! Are you staying for worship? A trophy is yours. Read your Bible every day this week? Another star blesses you from heaven. I always had a shining wall full of stars, hungry as I was for that elusive divine and adult approval; and I sometimes led the class. But then there was Philip Johns, my most fierce competitor. He was a religious machine. I could only beat him a few months out of each year, and in my daily prayers I had to often repent for wishing he would get struck with the flu, chickenpox, or leprosy – anything – so that he would be sidelined just long enough for me to squeak out the winning margin. It was that simple: Complete a religious assignment and get a star. Those with more stars were more dedicated, more spiritual, more committed, and obviously more beloved by God. Those with fewer stars, well, their faithfulness was suspect at best. When we engrain a competitive spirit into faith – a culture of public shame and reward – is it any wonder we end up with some really faith damaged adults? There is plenty to compete for and against in this world. But Christianity is not one of those things. Spiritual formation is not a competition. Faith is not – or at least it should not be – an instrument to humiliate those who just “can’t measure up.” And then there are those of us who “won” the religious game, we who earned our bounteous gold stars with pride. We are committed – let there be no mistake about that – but committed to what, exactly? Obligation? Checklists? To the fawning cheers of the spectators? To seeing our name high and lifted up in heavenly constellations? Our religious efforts and activities to please, praise, or placate God can become the very things that actually distract us from God. For if Christian faith becomes a work-based, blood-sweat-and-tears, incentive-driven, reward-acquisition staircase that compensates the winners and shames the losers, then the focus is placed on us and our rivals, not upon Christ. — Ronnie McBrayer Ronnie is a syndicated columnist, speaker, and author of multiple books. You can read more and receive regular e-columns in your inbox at www.ronniemcbrayer.me. Why Buy From Us? s#ONSISTENTLY2ANKEDFOR#USTOMER3ERVICE s&AMILY&RIENDLY%NVIRONMENT s,ARGEST(YUNDAI)NVENTORYIN-IDDLE4ENNESSEE s.EW+ID0LAY!REA7I&I7ORK3TATIONS s7E(OST!NNUAL#OMMUNITY%VENTS s&IRST-AINTENENCE3ERVICEIS&REE 866.637 637 7.2875 .287 .287 WW W WWHYUNDAIOFCOOLSPRINGSCOM (YUNDAI#3PRINGS See what our customers are saying *See dealer for details. 10 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com T HE S INGLE L IFE Caught in the Middle - Wisdom from Kids after Divorce “Since age 7 I have been the one to call and ask about child support and get my other parent to help pay for soccer,” recounts Lee, a 15 year old teen who is living between two homes. His parents divorced when he was five but he has been their communicator and messenger for the last eight years.“I wish my parents would take care of their own conversations instead of making me do their job.” Lee is frustrated because of the stress and anger his parents continue to carry and therefore they do not speak to each other. Researchers call this type of co-parenting “Dissolved Duos” who do not have any interaction or communication. Unfortunately, the outcome is that the children do the work their biological parents should do. Sarah recounts,“Every time my parents are in the same space they are rude and disrespectful to each other; this makes me feel insecure and worried – I wish they would stop acting so childish. My mom only tells me negative details about my dad and my dad is really negative about my mom's husband, my step dad. I feel stuck in the middle and I continually feel like I am in a war zone!” This type of co-parenting is categorized as “Fiery Foes” and it expressed by divorced parents who take every opportunity to lash out at each other, even at the expense of the children. Children of divorced parents need to have the freedom to love both biological parents and to not be the go-between regarding child support or financial decisions. Kids need to be allowed to be kids. Communication between co-parents is the responsibility of the adults involved. The ideal co-parenting category is “Cooperative Colleagues” - this is defined as biological parents who are like coCEOs of a business, two people who have a deep commitment to a positive outcome and have to communicate often. Some suggestions on how function as “Cooperative Colleagues” include: 1. Do not discuss co-parenting information at the hand-off / transition times when kids are present 2. Set a monthly time to meet in public and discuss co-parenting concerns 3. Utilize email for communicating details, asking questions, discussing schedules of the children 4. Enlist a 3rd party to help with the meetings: a mediator, counselor, pastor, trusted friend 5. Express gratitude, ask questions, assume the best, ask about motives (don't assume) Co-parenting is a complex process and requires a mature and intentional focus to protect kids after divorce. Co-parenting well is the key to raising healthy and stable children who will grow up and have every chance to thrive in their young adult years. — Tammy Daughtry, MMFT Tammy is Founder of Co-parenting International and author of “Co-parenting Works! Helping Your Children Thrive After Divorce” (HarperCollins 2011). Free information is available on the website for divorced and remarried parents. Nashville area classes are held at the YMCA for single and remarried parents. www.CoparentingInternational.com. Y OUTH N EWS Back to School Checklist Summer is over, and it is back to school time again. Important choices will be made this year. Your future is on the line. People around you will be changed by what you say and do. As you get back to school make sure that you are living like you should. Here are a few points to keep in mind: Choose friends wisely. You will become like the people that you hang around. It is impossible not to. Look beyond the “popular” people as the only friends that you can have. Most of the time they are popular for the wrong reasons. Find friends that will strengthen your character, hold you accountable, resisting sin, and actively living for Christ. Don’t think that you have to have a boyfriend/girlfriend. There is so much pressure to have a special someone that many teenagers act like it would be impossible to live without one. Don’t believe the lie. In fact most people are better off without a boyfriend/girlfriend during these years of development. A boyfriend/girlfriend can greatly hinder a young person’s development as a person. Instead of throwing all of your time at one relationship, that in the end want last, spend your time making great friendships with girls and guys. Friendships last a lot longer than boyfriends/girlfriends. Treat all teachers with respect. There is never an excuse to do so. Your teachers are in a place of authority, and as a Christian we have been commanded to respect those in authority. You may disagree with the teacher’s personality, style, or teaching techniques however, there is no reason to let your difference of opinion cause you to disrespect them. No one has cooties! They may be different, but they were also made by God. In school you are surrounded by a huge variety of people. It is easy to think that only those whom dress like, act like, and speak like you are the “right” kind of people. However, realize that people are different. This does not mean that they are worth less than you are or somehow less human. They were made and designed by the very God who made you as well, so treat them as such. Don’t spend your day comparing yourself to others. This is a huge waste of time. Instead, be the best you that you possibly can. All people have strengths and weakness, however, we usually think that we are the only ones that have weaknesses, and that certain people we know are just perfect. This is simply not true. Live for Christ! Life is not all about you. You were designed by God, saved by Christ, to live for Him! This is so contradictory to the way the majority of people at your school will live. Most people make every choice based on what is popular or if it makes them feel good. However, we as Christians have been called to a much higher way of living. We know that this life is very temporary and that in the end the only thing that matters is Christ. Analyze your life daily to see if you are living for Him or for yourself. “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Col. 3:1-2). — Trey Talley September 2013 11 B ODY & S OUL The Inevitable “He will yet fill your mouth with Laughter” Job 8:21 One of the best ways to reduce stress is to keep your sense of humor. It’s taken me quite a few years to learn to laugh at myself, but it’s freeing and allows me to be human and not “major in the minors.” My grandmother used to say “Find the joy in all you do and remember that laughter and humor keeps you young and feisty.” Don’t panic….don’t over react and don’t use unnecessary force. If you do people will avoid you. Happy people get more done than their oh-so-serious counterparts. Actually being joyful can make you laugh all the way to the bank. It confirms your love of people. Would you rather buy a car from a stressed-out, verbally abusive salesman or someone whose company you enjoy? Would you rather work with someone with passion who is congenial or moaning and groaning about what ought to be done! “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22) Keep in mind two things when it comes to humor. 1. Make sure your humor is at no one else’s expense. 2. Avoid jokes about things others might be sensitive about. Weight, bad hairdos, cheating husbands might make some people laugh, but to others it’s not funny. It’s always wise to let the joke be on you. Make sure your personality can handle your humor; you know you’re not going to offend anyone. “There is a time for everything: a time to weep and a time to laugh.” (Ecc 3:1) Every relationship, every path you cross, every conversation you have can ultimately be used by God to further His purposes. Whether it be at work, at home or play, always keep these things in mind. This is one positive way to “enjoy Life’s journey.” — Barbara Rucker As an actress and model for over two decades, Barbara’s career covered all media from radio & TV talk show host, magazine covers, 10 years in soap operas, and spokesperson for thousands of commercials. Her children, daughter Taylor, 26 and son, Logan 24, are her greatest achievement. .Barbara is a Mary Kay beauty consultant and loves enriching women’s lives! Recently my husband and I experienced a change in our lives…again. Another child got married and left the nest. Don’t get me wrong, I am happy that our children have found the mate the Lord has for them. But I’m slowly realizing one day this house will be free of our children and it will be a lot of alone time for me and my husband. This wonderful event has made me think about how we women go through many changes in our lives. As little girls we grow into big girls and experience different changes .During our teens we usually decide what we want to be in life and go after it, then it’s off to work. If we marry we go from living the single life to sharing every part of our life with another; next big change, motherhood. We’re constantly caring for; looking after a little person that has our hearts in the palm of their tiny little hand. In a short five years that little person starts school and we have to adjust to their new world. Too soon it’s time for college and we have to prepare ourselves for them being totally out of the house, until summer rolls around. Suddenly it happens, our child moves out for real for all time. I’ve watched my husband of thirty years experience some changes but not as many as I feel I have. Yes he changed from being a bachelor to a husband and then a father, but his role of primary provider has never changed. With additions, subtractions and situations of our family, he continues his job as before, and plans to do so until retirement, whereas my responsibilities seem to keep changing. Different phases in our children’s lives haven’t affected him like they have me. I’m sure it has something to do with the way men and women are wired differently. For us women, there are yet more changes coming our way, physical and emotional. Yes, there have been changes for my husband as well; mostly the physical. I truly hope I do not offend any male readers, if so, I humbly apologize. I’m just calling this ballgame as I see it from my seat. So what is a gal to do? For us women to not continue to experience change is for us to no longer live life, for life is full of twists and turns some good, some…not so much, but change is inevitable. The good news is; there is help; Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. [or changes]. That help comes from the one who never changes, our Heavenly Father. All we have to do is call on him. He likes it when we take our ‘changes’ to Him, after all He is the only one who can deal with them correctly. So, fasten your safety belts gals, for new changes are coming. — Reba Stanley Reba lives with her husband of 30 years in Brentwood, TN. She is a mother of four, a Christian fiction romance author, a professional artist and a work in process of her Heavenly Father. For more information visit her website: www.rebastanley.com 12 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com 7EVAL)QORPQ-LIIV->FA 5 Trust Molly Maid to clean your home so thoroughly, people are guaranteed to notice! 3FJMIB2B>PLKP Call today forfor aa free, Call today free, in-home consultation and in-home consultation andestimate. estimate. Save $45 Save $45 $15 rst, third fth regularly $15off offyour yourfifirst, thirdand andfififth regularlyscheduled scheduledcleaning. cleaning. Molly Maid of S. Davidson, Molly Maid& of Your Town Williamson Maury Counties 615-656-4334 000-000-0000 Offer validone onetime timeper perhousehold. household. Offer valid They clean my home the way I want it cleaned, they listen, they care and they follow my special instructions. 2 All my friends use Molly Maid, they’ve been satisfying customers for over 25 years. Now I recommend Molly Maid every chance I get. 3 I’m not bound by a contract, they guarantee to put a smile on my face with every cleaning. 4 They’re reliable, I know I can always rely on Molly Maid to arrive on time and to clean my home professionally! 5 People notice, visitors always compliment me on how clean and fresh my home is. Unexpected guests are no longer a concern. Offer Offer Expires: Expires:00/00/00 09/30/13 Your home. Your cleaning plan. ™ Which Rooms 1 How Often Special Requests Molly Maid is a member of the Service Brands International family. !@IB>KVLR@>KQORPQ For a cleaning plan designed around your home and lifestyle, visit mollymaid.com. ©2009 Molly Maid, Inc. Each franchise independently owned and operated. September 2013 13 Called to Cook akes oking. She m co r e h r fo n for her know ksgiving just Kay is best n s a h is T M ry ’s e y v st e ies en Jep Duck Dyna ie. I have se eet potato p p sw to t h ta o ig p e t e to swe one of at least six eat a whole ... that’s just n ie so p Ja le n o e h w se a sons. “I’ve n Willie eat pie. I’ve see le at they like.” o h th w m a e t a th e r fo o d I l things those specia ay Robertson, matriarch of the popular A&E television show Duck Dynasty, says fall family time at the home of the Duck Commander is all about, “Hunting, eating, and watching footballin that order.” Robertson says, “The men hunt, then we have a huge lunch and watch football together,” adding that it is during this time of year that she draws upon and is often most thankful for her gift of cooking encouraged by her grandmother and later her husband Phil’s mother. “I consider cooking a real gift from God,” says Robertson. “It’s a passion of mine, and my grandmother helped put it in my heart. As a little girl I would sit in the kitchen with her and do the rolling pin and when I wasn’t, I would be looking at all the cookbooks.” Robertson spent much of her childhood with her grandmother while her parents ran the family grocery store in Ida, La. “I even cooked with her for the different shifts at the store. Men came in and ate at a certain time and the women came in and ate at a certain time,” remembers Robertson who also credits her grandmother as her biggest faith influence. Robertson says her faith, nurtured by her grandmother, sustained her when her children were young and her marriage to Phil seemed to be falling apart. In Phil’s book, Happy, Happy, Happy (Howard Books) she shares, “My grandmother told me that it’s one man and one woman for life and that your marriage is worth fighting for. We had a few hard and bumpy years, but prayer, patience and some suffering and hope- plus remembering an old lady’s words- were what got me through the difficult times.” Robertson says during those difficult times God taught her the hardest lesson she has ever had to learn: patience. She adds that God brought her a great blessing through it, seeing her husband come to know Christ and change his life. “Our lives were so much better when that change came,” remembers Kay. She and Phil celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary on the season premiere of their television show. Robertson believes it is her calling to pass on what her grandmother did to her- a strong faith in Christ and a love for cooking. “I am trying to do my best to teach the grandkids cooking. Any time I have a rolling pin, they want to be a part of that,” she chuckles. And Robertson says her favorite family time is on Sundays at White’s Ferry Road Church of Christ in West Monroe, La. She and husband Phil, all four of their sons, and their sons’ families attend church together. . “Every single one of them goes to church with us, every one, and that is a joy to me,” says Robertson. Often Phil heads to the church first. “He wants to get there to open the doors I always say,” and then Kay follows with grandkids who have slept over the night before. Robertson admits church has changed with the The Robertson family has published two books with Howard fame of the television show. “We have a lot of guests to visit to Books/Simon and Schuster and Miss Kay will author a third, see us and that’s fine because I say, ‘If they want to follow us to releasing November 5, entitled, Miss Kay’s Duck Commander the church building, they couldn’t be in a better place. They are Kitchen: Faith, Family and Food. going to hear a good lesson. I’m kind of thrilled.” 14 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com Courtesy: Howard Books, Imprint of Simon & Schuster To keep her faith first, Robertson leads a weekly Bible study called “Muffins for Moms.” “It’s been a joy to my life to be able to keep up with my women’s group. Several women have come to Christ through the group, and I’m thrilled about that.” In spite of a filming schedule that changes weekly, Robertson rarely misses. The group of about 20 women wait for the show’s filming schedule to be released and then determine which day of the week they will meet. “We rotate days according to when I’m off and I have an assistant or two that take the lead when there is a week I don’t have a free day.” Courtesy: Howard Books, Imprint of Simon & Schuster When it comes to the influence Miss Kay hopes to have on others- especially her children Phil and Kay Robertson (center) with th eir four sons (L to R) Jep, Alan, Jase and W illie. The couple still and grandchildren- she says it boils down to consistency and being willing to admit your lives full time in the same home the bo mistakes. “Number one, be consistent with every- there and I don’t wa ys grew up in. “I have many memories nt to lose them,” says Kay. “We are in our same house and thing you do. Number two, I’m really big about the table you see on television is the table we eat on ever y day.” admitting my mistakes, letting them know I’m not perfect. I’ve learned some hard lessons from doing some things wrong. My motto here is to always learn from it, grow from it, and move on.” — Laurie Stroud Kay and Phil Robertson in the early years with oldest sons Alan and Jase. DEER RUN FAMILY EVENTS . . . DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES. MotherDaughter Weekend DEER RUN & PILLARS GIRLS’ MINISTRY PARTNER FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE WEEKEND September 13-15 DeerRunRetreat.org/UpcomingEvents 45 MINUTES SOUTH OF NASHVILLE, NEAR FRANKLIN CAMPS & RETREATS PSALM 42:1 615.794.2918 September 2013 15 ACT/SAT Prep an early start pays off! It’s time to start signing up for both teaching and tutoring for the fall semester! 16 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com F EATURE American Idol? The Christian and Sports While we may admire those who dedicate themselves to being the best in any chosen field, we must ask, “What good is it is a man gains the whole world, but loses his eternal soul.” How many of us aspire to reach that same level of excellence in Bible knowledge, Christian disciplines, or in serving hurting and needy people? How many of us encourage our children to aspire to this rather than sports achievements? In our culture, answering questions about the Christian’s involvement in sports requires wisdom and courage – refusing to engage mindlessly in what the dominant culture dictates, and instead thoughtfully pursuing single-minded obedience to God’s claim on our lives. When we perceive that bowing to cultural expectations is wrong, we must be prepared to take a courageous (and unpopular) stand. Honest answers to questions about Christians in sports will, no doubt, create discomfort, guilt, and uncertainty. This is because genuine and purposeful engagement of Christians with culture is always spiritual warfare. Still, the questions and related Scripture passages that follow are intended as food for thoughtful Christians regarding their involvement in sports. They are intended to be literal and straightforward to allow for honest consideration. As the reader will see in these questions, moving “toward a Christian view of sports” is not easy, but those who apply Christian principles to their involvement in sports will be rewarded in kind. While it is clear the Bible does not explicitly condemn sports or involvement in sports, the biblical principles posed are helpful as individuals consider how to submit to an obedient and loving relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord. Does physical exercise acknowledge and properly value the body as “the temple of the Holy Ghost?” Is sports competition a way to “glorify God in your body?” • “What? Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit . . ?” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Does sports participation qualify as, “doing whatever we do to the glory of God?” Can we really participate in sports “heartily as unto the Lord,”“in His name,” and not “as unto men?” • “Whether you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). • “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus . . . ” (Colossians 3:17, 23). Can one truly “love the Lord his God with all his heart, soul, and might” and be totally abandoned to the pursuit of anything other than that? If so, does that include sports?” • “Jesus said to him, you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment” (Matthew 22:37-38). Is the command to “let the mind of Jesus be in us” compatible with a winning sports ethos? • “Let nothing be done through selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one other more important than himself . . . . ” (Philippians 2:3-8). Who are we serving when we devote ourselves to sports? Are we “seeking first His kingdom”? • “No one can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other or he will hold to the one and despise the other. You can’t serve God and riches.” (Matthew 6:24). • “But seek first the kingdom of God . . . ” (Matthew 6:33). What does our involvement with sports prove about our affections? Is our spending for sports proof of our allegiance to God and to His kingdom? • “If have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking those things which are above, where Christ is seated on the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:1-2). Is our involvement in sports part of “walking circumspectly?” Are we “redeeming the time” in evil days as we devote time, energy, and resources to sports? • “Be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time . . . ” (Ephesians 5:15-19). In our devotion to sports, are we “minding earthly things” or is our “conversation in heaven” as we “look for our Savior?” • “For many walk … [as] enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, whose glory is in their shame, and who set their minds on earthly things. . . . ” (Philippians 3:18-21). Do we participate in sports because we are not content with godliness? How do sports promote “following after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness?” • “But godliness with contentment is great gain . . . ” (1 Timothy 6:6-12). As we participate in sports, are we focusing our minds on “things that are true, honest, just, pure, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy?” • “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is of good repute; if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things” (Philippians 4:8). Former Indianapolis Colts’ Head Coach Tony Dungy wrote in the epilogue of his book, Quiet Strength, about his faith and sports in his own life: “I love coaching football, and winning a Super Bowl was a goal I’ve had for a long time. But it has never been my purpose in life. My purpose in life is simply to glorify God. We have to be careful that we don’t let the pursuit of our life’s goals, no matter how important they seem, cause us to lose sight of our purpose.” Obviously, some serious problems with the place sport occupies in our culture exist with the apparent tacit approval of the Church. Christian leaders must acknowledge that, in many ways, sports have become the new opiate of the people and the new American civil religion, and we must set about to bring the principles of Scripture to bear on this problem. We must urge believers to live wise and courageous lives, guided by biblical truth and consciously taking captive every thought to the obedience of Jesus Christ. — Dr. Greg Ketteman is Provost at Welch College in Nashville, Tennessee. To read his work on sports in its entirety, order Integrity: A Theological Journal, published by the Commission for Theological Integrity: 877-7639222 or [email protected] In sports, do we “bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ?” If so, how? If not, how would this look for the Christian? • “… Destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking into every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). In sports, are we “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God?” Do sports lead us to a “form of godliness, denying the power thereof?” • “… In the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves . . . lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God …” (2 Timothy 3:1-7). September 2013 17 L IFE M ATTERS How Will Tennesseans Respond? Because of a radical 4 to 1 ruling by the Tennessee Supreme Court in 2000, Tennessee now boasts a broader right to abortion than that recognized by Roe v. Wade or the U. S. Constitution. With this decision, the court changed the two hundred year old state Constitution without the knowledge or consent of the people of Tennessee. With this new found “right to abortion”, the court struck down basic commonsense protections that had been approved overwhelmingly by members of the Tennessee General Assembly. These four justices took it upon themselves to rewrite the laws regulating abortion in our state, and in an extreme power grab, greatly restricted the ability of Tennessee voters to regulate abortion through their elected representatives and senators. The one dissenting voice on the court, Justice Mickey Barker, wrote in his opinion, “Plainly stated, the effect of the Court’s holding today is to remove from the people all power, except by constitutional amendment, to enact reasonable regulations of abortion…I believe that the Court has overstepped its authority with this decision.” As a result of the ruling, Tennesseans can no longer enforce reasonable protections for abortion-vulnerable women or unborn children. Currently, Tennessee has abortion on demand with: • NO informed consent for women and girls considering abortion. • NO waiting period to ensure that no woman is pressured into a quick abortion decision. • NO hospitalization requirement for second trimester abortions. • NO required inspection or regulation of abortion facilities to ensure that even minimal health standards are being met. The effect of the ruling has been far reaching. Since each of Tennessee’s eight border states have active policies requiring informed consent, waiting periods and regulation of abortion facilities, Tennessee has quickly become a destination in the southeast for those seeking unregulated abortions. In 2008, 23.7% of abortions performed in Tennessee were on women residing in other states and, according to a special report in The Tennessean, our state ranks fifth nationally in the number of out of state abortions. Since 2000, the primary goal of pro-life Tennesseans has been to overturn this wrong court ruling through a Constitutional amendment and restore the ability of citizens and elected officials to decide Tennessee’s abortion policies. Formerly referred to as Senate Joint Resolution 127 (SJR 127), Amendment 1 has been placed on the ballot for public vote in November 2014. Approval of the measure by Tennessee voters would allow passage and enforcement of commonsense policies designed to protect the health and safety of women and girls. Passage of Amendment 1 will put Tennesseans back in control of Tennessee policy. How will we respond? For more information on Amendment 1, contact Yes on 1 at [email protected] or go to www.voteYestn.org — Stacy Dunn Stacy is Vice President of Tennessee Right to Life FAITH @ W ORK Do “ Good Guys” Go To ? Most Christians agree that you have to be “saved” to go to heaven. This is pretty widely accepted by the 32% of the world’s population who consider themselves Christians, who also agree there are several steps involved in the process. We’re human; we like steps and processes, right? However, God—who is much bigger than the box we tend to put him in—sometimes does things a little differently than we expect. For example: A centurion’s servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die. The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant. When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do this, because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.” So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.” Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well. (Luke 7:1-10) 18 Nashville Christian Family Apparently, the centurion was a really good guy. Though he wasn’t Jewish, he loved the Jewish people and they loved him. So, when the centurion asked the Jewish elders to go to Jesus for help, they went. However, when Jesus was almost there, the centurion sent some friends to stop Jesus from coming in, saying that he was not “worthy.” Obviously, having better manners than most of us, Jesus didn’t ask “why?” or demand to enter. What amazed Jesus was the centurion’s faith. Jesus told the crowd following him that the centurion’s faith was greater than that of anyone in Israel, which would be shocking statement considering all the Jewish leaders, disciples, and preacher-types running around at that time. In fact, in the parallel verse from Matthew 8:5-13, Jesus says that one day, people with this kind of faith would come from all over the world and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at God’s kingdom banquet, while those that expect to be at the banquet would be kicked out and quite confused at how this could have happened. Jesus healed the servant, impressed by the simple trust of a man who didn’t have a clue about religious things. In addition to healing his servant, by grace, the centurion became a part of God’s kingdom and an example for us all. As humans, we want to know the “steps” to fix the challenges in our lives and in the lives of others. In this passage, God shows that he can heal the body and the soul. Perhaps we should learn to have the simple faith of the centurion, trusting that the Father knows what he’s doing. — David Pridmore www.NCFPublications.com M ONEY M ATTERS TAILGATE Dear Dave, I have a townhouse I’m preparing to rent. Do you have any advice for evaluating potential tenants? — Chris Dear Chris, The first thing I’d do is pull a credit bureau report. I’m not really worried about their credit score; I just want to see if they have a history of late or missed payments. Talk to some local property management firms and see who they use to pull these reports. I’d also recommend doing a background check on the potential renters. Talk to the owner of the last place they rented as well as the one before. I advise this because there are some dishonest landlords out there who will tell you that a bad tenant is wonderful just to get them out of their property. 6Top Tailgate Tips A lot of things, though, are simply common sense measures. Have them fill out an application, which includes their income and a list of their debts. If they make $2,000 a month and have $2,500 a month in debt payments, you don’t want them as tenants. In this scenario, a smile and “I promise I can pay it” won’t work. Spend some time just talking with them too. Really listen to what they say and how they say it. Get a feel for what kind of people they are, and, if they have children, pay special attention to the kids. Are they well behaved, or do they run around and act like a bunch of wild animals? If it’s the latter, then they’re going to tear up your house. And guess what? If the parents can’t discipline their kids, there’s a good chance they can’t discipline themselves either. You don’t want to get mixed up with that. People who let kids run the household don’t make good tenants. Finally, remember to trust your gut instincts. If you get a weird vibe from someone, or if things just feel strange, don’t rent to them. Chances are, there’s a reason you have those feelings. — Dave Dear Dave, Should a budget change every month? — Cindy Dear Cindy, Yes, it should. Your life changes every month, and your budget should reflect the ebb and flow of your life. Now, some things will stay the same. Your house payment or rent should fall into this category. If you have a car payment, which I hope you don’t, that would be the same too. There shouldn’t be a big difference in the amount you spend on food most months though. You might spend more in this category during November and December thanks to the holidays, but overall it should remain pretty steady. WITH U S! Make A List Every time I entertain at my house I always have a list of everything that needs to be done from the centerpieces to the food. The same thing can be done for a tailgate. You don’t want to have a fabulous spread of delicious treats and then realize you have no forks or napkins! Here are a few essentials I always make sure to take: tablecloth, table, chairs, paper goods, silverware, drinks, and of course food! #1 #2 Limit your Hot Items Make recipes that are great served cold or at room temperature. Having a dish that is best served piping hot isn’t the best idea. cheese balls, dips, fruit tray’s, and mini sandwiches are all great options. Purchase some of your items One of my cooking hero’s is Ina Garten aka The Barefoot Contessa. When she invites friends over for dinner she always recommends buying the bread or dessert from a local bakery instead of stressing out to make everything yourself. So, choose a few of your “go-to” recipes and tthen let your favorite caterer do the cooking for you. #3 #4 Drinks Bring bottled water, sodas, and other beverages that don’t require cups and ice. This will be easier for your guests and easier on you! Just be sure to ice down your drinks at least 6 hours ahead of time. The More the Merrier! One of the things I love the most about tailgating is all the people you get to see! So when you run into friends you want to be sure to have plenty of food! Make more of fewer items rather than making a wide variety. Look for recipes that are easy to double such as black bean salsa, spinach dip, and brownies. #5 #6 Show your Team Spirit! Be sure to bring and wear items with your team colors! You can even color coordinate your food! — Ashley McMackin The biggest fluctuation you may see is in your utilities. I heat my house with natural gas, so the bill is much higher during the winter months. It’s just the opposite during the summer. We burn electricity to run the air conditioner, so the electric bill is higher in summer. This is part of the reason I urge people to do a budget on paper, on purpose before the next month begins. You may look at the upcoming month and realize the kids have soccer pictures scheduled. There may be a school trip planned, or they may need back-to-school clothes and supplies. When it comes to a budget, there’s no easy out. Things change from month to month, and you need to think, plan ahead, and itemize so your budget is an accurate reflection of your life! — Dave Ramsey, Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored four New York Times best-selling books:Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover and EntreLeadership. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 6 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com. September 2013 19 K ID ’ S KORNER Bowling Ball Nose-Basher WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 (NIV) cause the 10 pound bowling ball to hit you in the face. Potential energy or stored energy is at its greatest when you are holding the 10 pound bowling ball to your nose. Once you let go, potential energy changes to kinetic energy, or energy in motion. INGREDIENTS 10 Pound Bowling Ball String STEP 1: Securely attach the string to the 10 pound bowling ball. STEP 2: Securely attached the string, with the bowling ball, to the ceiling. STEP 3: Pull the 10 pound bowling ball to your nose. Let go! DO NOT push the 10 pound bowling ball, just let go. DO NOT move forward, stand still. If you push the10 pound bowling ball or move forward the 10 pound bowling ball could hit you in the face, causing injury. EXPLANATION The swinging 10 pound bowling ball demonstrates the Conservation of Energy. The total amount of energy the 10 pound bowling ball has, stays the same, until you do something to change this energy. You can change the amount of energy by pushing the 10 pound bowling ball. This would OR Are you in control of what messages your child is receiving? With the bombardment of media, sales and marketing savvy in today’s world, it is a true challenge to raise and educate a child today to emulate Christian values and not worldy values. When the world is showing a child through media messaging that they are not popular if they do not own a specific product, not good enough if they do not look a certain way as in the popular magazines or act the way they see other teens on television - it is quite hard to compete for the attention of your child when they are plugged into their IPhones, Kindles, IPads, Xbox or computer. How many commercials and jingles do you remember as a child? I bet there are at least four that stick in your head. Everything from the Big Mac song to the Oscar Meyer jingle “My bologna has a first name” is still kept and stored in our heads, just 20 Nashville Christian Family BIBLE CONNECTION This experiment took a lot of trust. You had to believe that the 10 pound bowling ball would not hit you in the face, causing injury. In life, we can’t always choose the situation we are in, but we can always trust that God will guide us through anything. — Jason Lindsey Go to www.hookedonscience.org for Beyond the Science Lab video segments and more hands-on experiments. as the magazine photos from Abercrombie and Fitch leave an image in our children’s heads about how they should look to be acceptable and popular. How can we keep our children on the right path with good values in a world that has an ever increasing speed of negative imagery and the greed of sales. With schools participating in co-marketing of products through vending machines as well as selling rights to ads in school parking lots, it’s very difficult to have a handle on what the “world” is trying to really sell your child. Sports and other extracurriculars are also jumping on the bandwagon to sell advertising to help pay for items. I believe that they next marketing trend to see will be new choir robes for Glee that have sashes with sponsorship similar to NASCAR. How far are we willing to sell ourselves to allow our children to be influenced by corporations rather than Christian concepts? There are some schools of thought that a child should be exposed to everything and allowed to try to decipher what they believe as well as the opposite spectrum which selectively allows influences into their child’s life through parental control. As a Christian we have to carefully guard and influence our children to exemplify good character building values, so that when media messages come across our children learn how to filter through the negative imagery and sales. — Charlie Kaser Author, photojournalist and public speaker - Charlie has spoken to numerous congregations regarding environmental stewardship and family values. www.CharleKaser.com www.ChristianFamilyPublications.com H EALTHY L IVING Many of us already know that excess refined sugar (found in sodas, candies, icings, and packaged treats) can contribute to diabetes, excess weight and cardiovascular disease, and that complex carbohydrates found in vegetables, grains, and fruits are the healthiest for us. But do we realize that the effects of sugar just contributed to the world class tantrum our son just had? The crying meltdown our daughter had over something seemingly so little? Here are five healthy ideas to replace our sugar addictions with positive, natural sweeteners and behaviors that will satisfy our cravings and keep ourselves and our children from harm. Replace some of your children's “sweet” needs for affection. We sometimes have a tendency in our culture to reward our children with sweets, just like we have a tendency to reward them with “stuff”. The truth is, our children need our presence and our engaged attention, or attunement, more than things or sweet treats. Take the time to look at your child in the eye, give a sweet kiss on the cheek, hug them and tell them how much you love them. Some days, that is all the “sweet” they need. When you find that your children are having a higher carb, higher sugar meal or treat, find a creative way to add protein to it. Adding healthy proteins like nuts, chicken, beans, lentils, avocados, and fish to our children's diets will help reduce the insulin response which will therefore reduce behavioral consequences. “Say what?” These sugar alternatives are the latest made from stevia, an herb found in Central and South America that is up to 40 times sweeter than sugar but has zero calories and won't cause a jump in your blood sugar. Both work well in coffee and tea or sprinkled over fruit, cereal, or yogurt. Most store bought milks are high in sugars, except for this one. For those of us raised on sweet milk, it takes some getting used to, but is highly recommended by nutritionists who are supporting families whose children are sugar sensitive, especially those with soy and lactose allergies. Family walks. After dinner games. Bedtime reading. Trips to the park. Five minutes of special play time. These are the memories our children will remember. The ice cream shop does not have to be banned forever, but leave these times for very special occasions, not a weekly event. Our dailies of special family times can replace our children's need for the temporary “up” of tasty treats that will ultimately harm them if overdone. — Clinician Stacy Jagger, MMFT Owner of Sunnybrook Counseling, offers counseling and psychotherapy services for women, children, couples and families. www.sunnybrookcounseling.com September 2013 21 I N H IS G RIP ® Living a life of Precision Years ago, before golf driving ranges became full service ranges and both supplied balls and recovered them, golfers had to bring their own range balls and hustle down range to retrieve them. This was true for professional golfers as well. Needless to say, it could get quite costly if you sprayed balls all over. However, golfers like Arnold Palmer and Ben Hogan used to send their caddy down range and shag balls like an outfielder at baseball batting practice. Yep, you read that right. Ernest "Creamy" Carolan, who caddied for both Palmer and Hogan (and others over his 50-year career), carried a baseball glove with him to the driving range and caught fly golf balls. This "target" not only required Palmer and Hogan to become extremely precise with their ball striking, it enabled them to dial in with club yardages. Their goal wasn't hitting fairways and greens, but hitting specific spots on each. That’s playing precision golf. Most amateurs are content to land the ball anywhere in the direction of the hole. How would you describe the Christian life you’re living? Are you living with precision or are you content to hit it in the direction of walking with Jesus? God wants us to shoot for precision and to pursue Him with excellence in all that we do. Here are two complementary verses. "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Colossians 3:17); and "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). In the first, "word and deed" represent speaking and doing. In other words, every cognitive action executed by a human is to be done in the name of Jesus. In the second verse, the Apostle Paul picks two of the absolutely most mundane activities in which a human being can engage to represent that everything is to be done with excellence that honors God. But let’s look at these two verses as “shots” we’ve picked cleanly off a fairway lie. The goal isn’t good shots; the shots lead to something greater. But what? God looks on a life that is sacrificially pursuing excellence for the sake of His glory and sees it as worship. If Jesus is infinitely more valuable than any other being or aspect of His creation, then He is infinitely worthy of every ounce of worship the human heart and soul can express. Worship isn't a style of Sunday service - as in contemporary or traditional. True worship emanates from the heart and soul of a transformed life devastated by the presence of Jesus. God is most pleased in man when every aspect within a man's life is thrown into pursuing the excellence of God. And that’s living life with precision. — Scott Lehman President of www.inhisgripgolf.com and contributor to the Golfer's Bible (B&H Publishing). You can follow Scott on twitter at www.twitter.com/inhisgripgolf or Facebook at www.facebook.com/inhisgripgolf Need a Physician? Call 1-800-DOCTORS for a quick and easy appointment with a physician near you. www.1800doctors.com 22 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com FAITH U NDER F IRE My life simplified when I stopped thinking about being a "U.S. Citizen", my "rights" and the evil people taking over the country. Otherwise, I become distracted and afraid. I now have more room for love in my heart and more peace of mind. Recently, I heard a man named Phil Kendrick testify about a particular woman. This woman was called from a vision of Jesus to minister to pimps and warlords in Africa. She expects to be martyred. She couldn't follow through, if she were worried about her rights, evil people or their political agenda. Per Phil, "Everyone is Important" to God..Homosexuals, Pedophiles, Murderers, Rapists, Warlords, Abortionist and even impatient people like me who cut in, up the line of road traffic ahead of the patient people. Yes friends it's true. Politics/Republican/Democrat/Conservative/Liberal doesn't get you knowing your neighbor's name or caring about his problems. Kingdom-mindedness does! I'm not saying some aren't called by God into politics, because they are and they will make a difference. I'm just saying, for those who aren't called, hold the "Kingdom" up higher, and try to stop worrying about whether the gays are taking over. If you have a homosexual neighbor, find a way to serve him. Would it be too hard to have him over for dinner (Jesus ate with sinners)? I had a "Christian" businessman tell me once that because of my seemingly radical beliefs, he felt toward me as he did toward a friend of his, who had been delivered from pornography. He said "I don't want to be seen around my friend for fear others will think I have a pornography problem". He had literally told his friend to "never flag him down in public". The shallowness of this is mind boggling. But this attitude among Christians is one of the root causes of America's disintegration...the lack of love for the sinner. The Pharisees feared for their reputation too. The enemy has hold of grass roots America not because of Twitter and Facebook. The enemies grip stems from the void of love coming from Christians in grass roots America. So the enemy comes with a flood to fill the void. The Holy Spirit would be our helper to raise a standard of love against the flood. Our real problem is with the Spirit and being fruitful and multiplying. It completely shuts down the multiplication effect of love. Somehow "sinners"...thieves, demoniacs, the sexually sinful, were attracted to Jesus (Mr. Multiplication). Sinners want to see a heavy cross...a sacrificial cross of love. Sacrifice takes the pharisaical agenda out of it for the sinner. Dying to oneself, and finding a way, through the presence of the Holy Spirit, to love seemingly unloveable people in your grass roots neighborhood is where the true power is hidden! Fear isn't my friend or yours. Love can be deeper than most, including me, know and is a weapon far more powerful. May God bless the U.S. with more Kingdom love from above through His people! — Brian Burke Christian Speaker/Founder of Lovestruction for Men. To receive Lovestruction For Men email blast/blog address, email me at [email protected] H ASSLE F REE Z ONE Catching Up “Be sure your sins will find you out.” That’s what the Good Book says, and my mother quoted those words to me a lot while I was growing up. In fact, she once arranged for the public demonstration of this proverb. I was in the seventh grade, and someone was habitually stealing my lunch from my classroom cubby. My mother complained, vigorously. Still, the thievery continued. So, she then did something unexpected: She took matters into her own hands. My mother made a sandwich combining dog food with that greasy potted meat compost. Then she sweetened the deal with a nicely baked brownie, Ex-lax being the main ingredient. The thought of my good Christian mother orchestrating and executing such a devious plan of revenge made my teenage heart leap with joy. On the Day of Judgment I placed my lunch in its usual location and went to math class. Later, when I returned to fetch it – to my sinister delight – it was gone. I nearly hyperventilated with delight. I watched the absentee roll for the next several days, and discovered that Dexter Wilkey missed three days in a row. When he finally returned to school, he was still a little green around the gills. Obviously, mother and I had our man. How is it that our wrongdoings always float to the surface? Cheat on your taxes and lo and behold that’s the one year you get audited. Cheat on your wife and that will be the inopportune time she investigates the extra charges on your Visa card. Steal from your boss and expect a pink slip. It might take a while to catch up with you, but “catch up” is coming nonetheless. Sure, some will get away with it – but not many. Call it sin, the inescapable justice of the universe, karma, or bad juju – whatever.“It” has a way of catching up with you no matter what. So what is the solution? Wave the white flag of surrender. Stop skimming off the till. Stay faithful to your spouse. Cut up a credit card. Be honest at work. Quit stealing little boys’ lunches (Shame on you Dexter! I thought we were friends.). It’s never too late to do the right thing. Never. Unless of course you’ve got that brownie shoved half-way down your throat already. If that’s the case, well, Godspeed. Your sins have caught up with you after all. — Ronnie McBrayer Ronnie is a syndicated columnist, speaker, and author of multiple books. You can read more and receive regular e-columns in your inbox at www.ronniemcbrayer.me. September 2013 23 T HE G REAT C OMMISSION Offended! “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you and falsely accuse you of all kinds of evil because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12 Lord, I have to admit, I should have expected this, but I simply wasn’t prepared. You’ve warned me it would happen and yet I think deep within my soul dwells a sense of naivety – I didn’t want the possibility to exist. I have discovered just how blind to the reality I’ve been. Several days ago, I was leaving work and greeted a person who works in another department. He is a confessed agnostic at best, viewing Your existence as only a possibility; defining Your character as removed and isolated from the day-to-day events in our lives. The concept of Your desiring interaction with us has no meaning for him. His history with Christianity is unpleasant and this wellread skeptic appears to spend a lot of time reading and researching what he believes to be evidence of all religions’ ill effect on the world. Master, as You know, I’ve had numerous conversations with this young man in the past and I’ve shared my testimony with him, not pressing for conversion, but sharing, as best as I’ve been able, how You have changed my life. But on this particular day, the young man lashed out. “I believe You Christians actually want the rest of us to go to this hell you say exists. He went on to condemn me based not necessarily on my actions, but on what he claimed were the insensitive acts of an unjust God: War, famine, earthquakes, poverty, and of course on the examples of those who have committed atrocities in Your name. He went on to pronounce me guilty by association with anyone who claimed their actions to be authorized by You. Some issues he listed (the Crusades being an obvious lightning rod), I’ve had struggles with as well. I wanted to explain to him that I know, as often happens; righteous beginnings are frequently twisted into disastrous results through mankind perverting Your intentions and desire. I wanted to share mutual regret with him, but at that moment, he stepped over the line, “I reject a Judeo Christian God. I’m offended by you and your God who would allow such cruelty to others.” The anger in him towards me and You was palpable. I think at that moment Adonai, I acquired a better appreciation for the persecution of the Jews and martyrs of Christianity. I felt sadness for both my adversary and myself – there would be no opportunity for exploring with one another, Your incredible loving kindness. When the young man made his declaration, blaming the world's condition on me and You, my God, I wanted also to blame someone! Was it him? Was it those who have misrepresented You over the course of history. Then a thought hit me. Am I indeed at fault? I need to be alert and honest from the standpoint that I do engage in actions, speak words and frequently leave things undone that adversely affect others. I don’t need to be guilty by association – I’ve got my own baggage and regrets I can easily confess. — Mark A. Cornelius. Up to this point, It’s been me answering his questions. I had a genuine hope that, in spite of whatever injury from others he has experienced in the past, maybe, just maybe I could show him how a true relationship with You (as opposed to some ceremonial ritual or declaration) can impact one individual. Expires 09/15/13 24 Nashville Christian Family www.NCFPublications.com P LAN FOR S ALVATION Has something in the magazine or something you have discussed with someone or some thoughts that you have had or something that you have heard, brought you to a point of realizing that you want and need to know Christ in the truest and personal sense? If so, below is a simple outline for someone of any age who is not a Believer to act on their desire to accept Jesus Christ into their heart as their Savior. God’s Plan of Salvation God created us to honor and serve Him Revelation 4:11: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power;For You created all things, And by Your will they exist[b] and were created Each of us has sinned against God Romans 3:10: As it is written, “There is none righteous, no, not on” Romans3:23: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, The penalty for sin is eternal separation from God and Heaven Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good works cannot ever earn God’s forgiveness and Salvation Titus 3:5: not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us. God loves each of us John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Jesus Christ died on the cross in our place, paying the penalty for our sin Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. F ELLOWSHIP OF C HRSITIAN ATHLETES Changing of the Guard As Steve Robinson steps down after 40 years of service as the director of Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Middle Tennessee, we are excited to welcome Mark Wracher back home as his replacement. Mark first came to Nashville from Ohio to play for the Vanderbilt Commodores football team in 1982. He lettered all 4 years from 1982 to 1986 as quarterback for the Commodores. He was named Academic All SEC in 1985 and 1986. While here he fell in love with the area. After graduation he stayed and worked as an Investment Advisor with J. C. Bradford and Company. However, the call of the sports world was too great. After one year in business he went back to school at VU to get a Master of Education in Health Promotion and Education. He served as a Graduate Assistant with the football team during this time. After obtaining his Masters he took a position as Assistant Coach at Tennessee State University for 2 years. He left TSU after the ’93 season for Texas Southern to serve as Offensive Coordinator. However, he didn’t go alone. He met a local girl from Fairview. He and Stephanie Spicer were married in 1994 and moved to Houston. While at Texas Southern God got hold of him through Coach James West and Mark accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His call to FCA came in 1998 as Area Director in Toledo, Ohio. From Toledo he was called to Los Angeles in 2000 where he established FCA for the first time. Campus ministries grew from 2 to 40 under his leadership. In 2008 he became a Multi-Area director responsible for 3 counties in the LA area. He also received his Masters of Divinity from King Seminary in 2005 while in LA. Then in September 2011 God called him to Atlanta, Ga. to serve in a similar position. In 2 years there he more than doubled the funds coming into FCA. He grew staff from 1 representative to 5 representatives at Georgia Tech. He restarted the Atlanta Inner City Ministry. Staff more than tripled under his direction during the 2 years there. In 2013, the Lord opened a door for he and Stephanie to move the family back to the Nashville area. When Steve Robinson announced his retirement, Mark said, “It was like God was calling us back home.” We each must accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior Romans 10:9: that 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 10:13: For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” To accept Christ into your heart and life, pray a simple prayer along these lines - “Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and I am sorry for my sins. I know that Jesus died for my sins and the sins of the world. Right now, I ask Jesus into my heart and receive Him as my personal Savior. Forgive me of my sins, thank you for saving me through the blood of Jesus. Please Lord, help me live for you. In Jesus name, amen.” Mark and Stephanie moved back this summer. They now reside in Franklin with son Zach and daughter Reese. His first official day on the job was August 5. We are excited to see what God is going to do in this new chapter of FCA in Middle Tennessee. — Ted Gleason Ted is FCA Area Representative, 615-478-9238 / [email protected] / www.fcanashville.org September 2013 25 SEPTEMBER 2013 Calendar can accommodate images projected through a computer overhead projector. You will get time to explain to the group what makes this piece special and what it means to you or you can explain about the techniques used or perhaps a deeper meaning for you. The event is September 4th – October 9th Divorce Recovery Program - 6:30– 8:00PM - open to the public and is free to attend and will be held at the Williamson County Public Held at Brentwood United Methodist Library in Franklin. For more information, Church. This course will offer support and encouragement for adjusting to change and visit www.artscouncilwc.org, or call (615) life after divorce. The sessions will explore the 428-3845. topics of coping with roller-coaster feelings, learning to forgive, dealing with your ex and September 13 – 15 your children, dating after divorce, as well as Mother – Daughter Weekend - Deer Run learning community resources that are avail- and Pillars Girls’ Ministry partner for an unforgettable weekend for mothers and able to you. Free child care is available with daughters, ages 9 and up. (BOLD SENadvanced registration; please contact (615) 324-7256 for more information. Register and TENCE)Knit your hearts with unconditional love, a fire for God's word, laughter and pay the $30 fee online at authentic worship. Choose sessions for your www.bumc.net/SinglesCalendar (click the Divorce Recovery link on September 4th, then particular interests or stage in life such as communication, dating dilemma, Mama click Register). For more information or scholarship assistance, call (615) 324-7256 or Drama, Holy Yoga, fashion modesty, body image, and more. Free-time recreation choices email [email protected]. include crafts, scavenger hunt, lake/beach time, climbing tower, archery, hayrides, September 10, 2013 – May 6, 2014 Heart Healthy Cooking Schools – 3:00 PM – stargazing, and campfires. Candace “Healthy Southern Favorites” - Saint Thomas McDowell and Lana McNair, sisters and Heart, the cardiac division of Saint Thomas founders of Agapetos Ministries and leaders Health, is pleased to announce the 2013/2014 of Pillars Girls’ Ministry in Georgia, are the event speakers. Both have a passion for sharFall/Spring schedule for its Heart Healthy Cooking School events, a series of free cook- ing God’s word and excel in delivering His ing demonstrations and tastings. Each month, word in a powerful and relevant way and desire to guide moms in how to be strong the class will have a different heart-healthy Christian examples and disciple their daughtheme. Registered cardiac dietician, Kitty ters to grow into godly women.. Fawaz, and executive chef, Johnathan Wickersham, will lead the classes. Classes also Grandmothers, aunts, mentors, and leaders of feature Saint Thomas Heart cardiac specialists girls are encouraged to attend. The package price includes 2-night accommodations, 5 who will discuss the importance of healthy meals, worship and speaker sessions, open rec, eating in improving overall cardiac health. The School presented by Saint Thomas Heart crafts, goody bag, and event t-shirt. Register at www.DeerRunRetreat.org/upcomingevents, began in 1996 and has helped tens of thousands of Middle Tennesseans learn to prepare or call 615.794.2918 for more information. easy, heart-healthy meals. Classes are free and open to the public. Class size is limited to the September 19 -21st first 75 registrants and will be held in the St. Hope Force International Disaster ResponseTraining - Hope Force International Thomas Hospital cafeteria located at 4220 Harding Road in Nashville. To register and for is a disaster response non-profit located in Brentwood. Does news of tornadoes, hurria complete schedule, call 800-588-3270. canes, floods and earthquakes stir you to want to help those in need? Come join our ranks September 13 and become a trained volunteer with Hope Brown Bag Lunch Bunch - 11:00AM – 1:00PM - Bring your lunch and join us. This Force International. All skills are needed! This month we will be doing one of our favorite training will be in Franklin . For further lunch events. This month we are once again details contact Sue Duby at (615) 371-1271 doing "Artist Open Forum". Join us as we will or [email protected] and visit be meeting on a special Friday the 13th. The www.hopeforce.org. Artist Open Forum is where we are asking attendees of our meeting to bring in a piece of September 24 artwork for a show and tell. This can be one Christian Women’s Job Corps Training – 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM General Training will be held of their own pieces or one of your favorite at CWJC Main Office in downtown Nashville. pieces you collected from someone else. We encourage people to bring the real art in but Men and women and children are making strides educationally, in learning English, and in learning to know Christ. Here are some volunteer needs we have: Mentors - We have new students coming this Fall. Needed this fall: Nashville- Mentors, Tutors Monday or Thursday evenings, Williamson CountyMentors, Childcare Tuesday or Thursday evenings. Contact Sandy at 615-244-3669 or email [email protected] ONGOING Tennessee Christian Chamber of Commerce – 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM - Networking/Leads Group Meetings held each month. First Thursday is the Downtown Group which meets at LifeWay Plaza. Second Thursday is the Cool Springs/Williamson Group. Third Thursday in Murfreesboro, meets at Sloan’s Motorcycles on NW Broad Street and Rivergate meets at Ryans Buffet in Madison. Monthly Luncheon event is the last Tuesday of each month at various locations.in the Nashville area featuring an outstanding speaker. For more information about the Chamber and events, visit www.tnchristianchamber.org or email [email protected]. Tennessee Right to Life Chapter: Meets the 1st Thursday monthly at 7 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 2640 Buckner Road, Thompson's Station, Tn Tennessee Right to Life is committed to effectively advocating the protection of human life through educational outreach, passage of protective legislation and the development of an informed, active grassroots movement statewide. www.tennesseerighttolife.org - [email protected] - 615298-LIFE(5433) Every Friday Morning CBL Roundtable – 6:45 AM – 8:15 AM – CEO Fellowship is a non-profit, nondenominational organization of local Christian business leaders. The focus of our weekly meeting is to teach and equip these leaders to operate and lead their respective companies on these Biblical principles. Each week we feature a guest speaker from our local business community. Meetings are held at Brentwood Baptist Church, Wilson Hall, 7777 Concord Rd, Brentwood, TN. For more information please visit our website at www.ceofellowship.com or email us at [email protected] A BOUT O UR A DVERTISERS Advent Limousine – www.adventlimo.com, 615-442-7651 Brentwood Academy – www.brentwoodacademy.com, 615-373-0611 Deer Run Retreat Center - www.deerrunretreat.org, 615-794-2918 David W. Harr, DMD - www.docharr.com, 615-776-2565 Hyundai of Cool Springs – www.hyundaiofcoolsprings.com, M & M Tutoring – www.mathtutor-online.com, 615-440-8686 Molly Maid – www.mollymaid.com, 615-656-4334 Nashville Coin & Currency - www.nashvillecoin.com, 615-377-4949 Saint Thomas Health - www.sths.com, 615-284-LIFE Sign Solutions – www.goodwillsignsolutions.com, 615-346-1205 Lucky Ladd Farms – www.luckyladdfarms.com, 615-274-3786 The Fish 94FM - www.94fmthefish.net, 615-367-2210 Legendary Computers – www.legendary-computers.com, 615-472-8134 26 Nashville Christian Family List Your Event! If you have an event you would like listed in the Nashville Christian Family Community Calendar e-mail us at: [email protected] subject line-Calendar Coming in OCTOBER October 5 Deer Run Rider's Rally — Motorcycle Ride to Raise Funds for Camper Scholarships – 7:00 am – 1:00pm. Enjoy a day of fellowship with Christian motorcycle riders on a well-organized beautiful, scenic ride through approximately 100 miles of middle Tennessee back roads plus support a great cause. Funds from the ride, silent auction, and event sponsors go to Deer Run’s MISSION 42:1 Scholarship Fund to provide camper scholarships for kids in need. The day begins with breakfast at The People’s Church (Mack Hatcher/Hwy 96 in Franklin) and ends at Deer Run with lunch, live music, silent auction, and drawings for rider prizes. See www.DeerRunRetreat.org/UpcomingEvent s for details. No pre-registration is necessary; pay on the day of the event. Questions or silent auction donations: call David Gibson at 615.566.0026. Support us by supporting them. SilverPointe Realty, Mike Newman – www. www.mnewman.silverpointe.com, 615-939-2890 Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home - www.tbch4kids.org, 615 376-3190 615-550-7330 ® TN Christian Chamber of Commerce – www.tnchristianchamber.org, 615-942-6731 TN Right To Life – www.chooselifetn.org Tutoring Club – www.tutoringclub.com, Franklin – 615-970-0525, Nolensville – 615-776-7054 Visiting Angels – www.visitingangels.com, 615-646-1594, 615-953-9494 Webn8 web design - www.webn8webdesign.com, 888-827-5932 Welch College - www.welch.edu, 615-884-5000 www.NCFPublications.com CAROL A. BAXTER, D.D.S. ONE NAME. ONE HEALING COMMUNITY. Baptist Hospital IS NOW Hickman Community Hospital IS NOW Hospital for Spinal Surgery IS NOW Middle Tennessee Medical Center IS NOW Saint Thomas Hospital IS NOW Everything is changing in healthcare right now and you need a partner you can depend on. A partner who has the strength and stability to care for you through all stages of your life. That’s why Saint Thomas Health is focused on one purpose – to keep the individuals and communities we serve healthy. With one name and one voice we are creating a community of healing by making it easier to access holistic, reverent care. We are stronger when we all work together.