austin faith and family- february 2011

AustinFAITH & FAMILY

S T R E N G T H F O R T H E F A M I LY , H O P E F O R T H E C I T Y

Ladies Top TenHow to "Wow" Him for Valentine's Day

eaTing in americaWhat's happened to our food?

Journey for Two

Does she really want diamonds?

February 2011

FREE

Ryan Rush Breaking down walls

Coupon InsIde!

www.AustinFaithandFamily.com Available at all HEB, Randalls, & Central Market locations in the Greater Austin area 3AustinFAITH & FAMILY

www.1633ministries.comAvailable at all HEB, Randalls, & Central Market locations in the Greater Austin area4AustinFAITH & FAMILY

FaithBody Life: Lighten Up!

Out There:: In a Coffee Shop

Spiritual Coffee

Along the Way: I Do...or Do I?

FamilyPractical Parenting: Moms Without Migraines

Dear Dads: The Onus is on YOU

Mom to Mom: Signed, Sealed, Delivered...It's Canned!

Journey for Two: What Can You Expect?

A Few Good Men:Developing a Powerful Serve At Home

LifeLadies Top 10: What a Man Wants

Out & About: Museum Round-Up

Erin's Cooking: Brand Name Junkie

MoneyWealth & Wisdom: A Special Love Letter

Mom's Tips & Tricks

Dave Says

Spend Life Well: Don't Forget About Mom

YouHealth Matters: Personal Training

Diet & Nutrition: What Is the Glycemic Index?

Head to Heart: Love Is...

The Real Stuff: The New You/A Tough Role The Real Me: Love Never Fails

Special This MonthPrince Charming...Really?

Grace Academy: Classical Christian Education Produces Results

Eating In America

Ryan Rush: Breaking Down Walls

Heroic Media Brings Mercy Me & Rebecca St. James to Austin

Redefining the Fall

Monthly Favorites20 Words: Should I Kiss Dating Goodbye?

Austin Community Calendar

Church Directory

Rave Reviews

The Back Pew


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Get SomeSpiritual Energy

Preventing a "Mommy Migraine"

Set a Christ-like Example for Your Family

Valentines Gift Ideas for the Man in Your Life

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12Does Prince CharmingReally Exist?


Publisher1633 Ministries 501 (c) (3)[email protected]

editorMarcy [email protected]

Art directorAbby [email protected]

Advertising sAlesLee Eddins | [email protected]

contributing WritersLee Eddins, Marcy Lytle, Al Jones, Trent Peng, Kie Bowman, Ginny Hurley, Mark Trice, Dave Ramsey, Richard Landry, Lauren Lacy, Joe Elliott, Patricia Jacobson, Joshua Myers, Maria Arreola, Scottie Moore, John Pound, Erin Osborn, Georganne Schuch, David & Lynn Cherry, Vicki Lancaster, Don Spann, Amy Dillon, Laura Bezden, Deborah Begley, Sylvia Neusch, Pieper Stewart, Ashley Brinkoeter, Gary Sinclair, Kate Mullaney, and Barry Tripp

Austin Faith and Family is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal and life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Austin Faith & Family do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Austin Faith & Family staff to ensure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information, nor the absences of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be, or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2010 by 1633 Ministries 501 (c) (3).

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Austin Faith & Family is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $35 for one year. Single issues available for $3 an issue.

volume 2, issue 9

AustinFAITH & FAMILY Editor's Note

When I get a box of chocolates, I immediately take a knife from the drawer and begin cutting open each piece. My family thinks I’m weird. However, I don’t like every piece, and I want to see what’s inside before I take a bite.

Yes, I ruin the pretty chocolate shapes lined up in a row, but there are no surprises, bad or good, when I start to enjoy my treats. And the ones I like the best? The caramels!

I think our magazine can be like that box of chocolates, as we strive to deliver well-written pieces, lined up on each page, that are attractive, delicious, and just waiting to be enjoyed by you—our readers! Obviously, every article won’t appeal to every reader. However, as you begin to read each one, we hope you find some treats you want to enjoy again and again, with some of our regular monthly columns. We hope that eventually our monthly editions will be full of pieces that delight you as you savor each bite.

Our regular columns are rich and full of flavor. You can be sure that “Rave Reviews” will offer great book or movie reviews each month, so spend some of that Christmas money and treat yourself to a new read! Ladies, are you looking for an idea for your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day? Be sure to read the “Ladies Top Ten” column for a list of options that are sure to please! Do you know anyone struggling in the dating game? “20 Words” answers the question, ‘Should I kiss dating good-bye?’ This unique column highlights 20 words that leave the reader with a bite on which to chew for a while. And “Spiritual Coffee” is your daily fix for a boost of the Word to give you energy all day.

As you sample each column, your “box of chocolates” will soon be familiar to you, and you’ll pick your favorites to read when you pick up your copy of our magazine. I hope you then pass your copy around to your friends so they can taste a sample, too. This way every piece will be tasted and enjoyed, and next month you’ll receive a full box of tasty goodness once again.

Which piece do you enjoy the most? Write and tell me about it at [email protected]!

Marcy LytleEditor | Austin Faith & Family Magazine

Tasty Bites to Share

Susan,Thank you for my daily refresher of scripture before I begin my work day - it really DOES make a difference!!!

Cheryl W. Hi Marcy,Let me start off by saying how much we have enjoyed reading the Austin Faith & Family magazine. You do such a good job!! It has been fun to read articles by people that I know, too.

Sylvia N. Marcy,Just saw the article you put in AFF about Majesty Outdoors. Thank you so much! We are working very diligently on these episodes and so appreciate your support. Blessings on you and let me know if I can help you.

David M.

Hi Marcy,I just wanted to say thanks again for the opportunity with Austin Faith & Family. I read the article and really enjoyed it! Praise God! I also read “Majesty Outdoors” with Bill Blodgett and know him personally. We attended the same church in Austin TX where I lead worship...small world huh?

Matt F.

Dear Marcy,I picked up a copy of Austin Faith & Family Magazine, at the H.E.B. Congratulations on your excellent work. I found the magazine both well done and attractive. I will be placing an order for my subscription in a few days.

Jim L.

Letters

Join our growing online community at www.facebook.com/austinfaithandfamily

“I’ll see you there around four-ish.” Have you ever heard someone use that language? Or others describe a new band and say, “You’ll like them, they were kind of U2-ish.” If you liked the band U2, then you probably would be okay with the term U2-ish. However, when being a Christian, which means being Christ-like, would you like someone to say you were Christian-ish, making you Christ-like-ish? You see, when the Bill Mahers of the world talk about Christians; unfortunately, many times they have a point. I am a Christian and I hate to admit it, but I like something that Bill Maher said recently. Here’s his comment, “Christians should call themselves Christ-likes, because maybe it would remind them to be Christ-like.” The question then becomes, "Are we really Christ-like most of the time?" I spoke with a leader at one of the local shelters for kids here in Austin last week and he said their biggest challenge is that when people donate, they don’t donate the clothes they have grown out of, they donate the clothes they have worn out. If we donate and give the stuff in our closets that we’ve worn out, never thinking about that little boy or girl who is going to receive these items, I can’t help but think that is being Christ-like-ish. Firstfruits? Well that only applies to our tithe,

not our reaching the needs of our city, right? Wrong. When we donate, we should consider this question, "Are we giving like Christ gave?" He gave his best. Challenge- LOOK AROUND. Are we living in a world where streets reflect the salt and the light we are supposed to be as Christ-likes, or does our society reflect groups that are Christ-like-ish? Let’s do our best as the sons and daughters of God to not have people say this about us, ”You know those Christ-like-ish groups? They resemble the real thing, but at a closer look, they're not the real deal.” Today, look for every opportunity to be a Christ-like.

Lee Eddins

Publisher, Austin Faith & Family

Christ-like?Well...Christ-like-ish


Faith Body LifeOut There

Spiritual CoffeeAlong the Way

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“And God said, ‘Let there be light’, and there was light.”

~ Genesis 1:3

God’s very first words spoken to His new creation brought light. How necessary it is to have light! I’ve been frustrated many

times trying to do some home repair without it. I recently bought one of those flashlights that you can wear on your forehead. Genius! Now I can use both hands to work and the light shines exactly

where I need it. But how often do we try to build a marriage or raise our kids without enough light? When God comes into a situation, He brings light into the darkness. This light produces an awareness or discernment that enables us to see from His perspective. The result is WISDOM, seeing life from God’s point of view, which brings a direction or a strategy for going forward. The earth was dark and God brought light. It was also formless and He brought order into the chaos. It was void, and God brought resources into the emptiness. He will do the same for those who trust Him. God’s Light imparts confidence by transforming those who walk in it, bringing wisdom, truth, direction, and righteousness. God desires for us is to be people who walk in confidence, and only people who walk in God’s light are people of

genuine confidence. Jesus said, “If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if anyone walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” (John 11:9-10) Notice how Jesus compares spiritual light (the light “in him”) to natural light. His light keeps us from stumbling. And God’s light is different in another way – it penetrates everything it encounters. We can eliminate natural light by putting up barriers and creating places of darkness. But God’s light cannot be stopped. It is the light that “shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.” (John 1:5) Everything is exposed by God’s light for what it really is. Do you want to see what God sees in your family? Ask Him for light and expect it! You may need to seek counsel or dig into His word, or it may come some other way. I learned a long time ago to ask God for things without telling Him how to do His job. He is so creative and wise, and He really doesn’t need us “boxing Him in” with our methods. The other very cool thing about God’s light is that it not only shines into our situation, but it transforms us in the process. In Ephesians 5, the Apostle Paul tells us, “For you were formerly darkness, but now you ARE light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” God’s light transforms homes filled with uncertainty and hopelessness into places of confidence and intentionality. When we see clearly (in the light) we know where we are going and can even help others on the way. Jesus declared Himself the light of the world, but then told His disciples THEY were the light of the world – a city set on a hill which cannot be hidden. God is waiting for us to throw open the drapes and raise the window shades to allow His light to shine in. As it changes us, it will begin to shine in our relationships. It has the power to change whole neighborhoods, even our city. In the beginning God said, “Let there be Light!” He said it again when He sent His Son, Jesus Christ. I believe He continues to say it today through every person who walks as a “child of the light.” Will you let His light shine into you and your home? I say, “Let there be Light!”

John PoundPastor, New Hope Community Church

Lighten Up! Bringing God's Light into our Marriage and Home


Lighten Up! Bringing God's Light into our Marriage and Home

Sitting with our laptops at Starbucks recently, AFF overheard two guys behind us talking about their faith. It was soon

clear that these two guys were church leaders and definitely “out there,” so we asked them if they would be willing to be interviewed for this column. They politely acquiesced and we think our “chance” meeting was not mere chance at all. Below is Jake Cofield’s story on moving out from the pew into the lives of people.

Jake and his wife Amanda were on staff at a church in Lubbock, Texas where they worked with the university ministry and homeless ministry. “We started churches in bars, coffee shops, and trailer parks,” states Jake. After serving with YWAM in Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and San Francisco, they felt called to Austin and have only been here about three months, looking forward to working with the homeless and with social justice ministries.

Jake met Brandon (his friend at Starbucks) in college and they kept up their friendship over the years. “Our most significant ministry together has been genuine discipleship. We challenge and pray for each other consistently.” Currently, Jake is involved with a house church in Round Rock. Jake states that “the church is

really only being the church when it is living, moving, and breathing outside of the building.” He further adds, “In my experience church is too often something we attend instead of something we are.” He likes to challenge people to allow Christ to become a part of everything they are and everything they do.

When Jake worked with the homeless, his group developed relationship with them. “They weren’t a project, they were our friends,” Jake shares. He added that one night, in talking about favorite movies and foods, they were invited to a have a cookout and spend the night downtown with “them.” They took a projector and BBQ pit and set up against the wall of a library. “I think that for the first time in a long time they felt normal again,” Jake said of the homeless. “That was church for me. Meeting people where they are…being the church in their context and in their world.”

Jake says taking the gospel to the hearts and needs of real people is “church,” not a building. He finished our interview with this comment, “I don't know that I have church figured out or ministry figured out, but I do believe deep genuine relationships, that show people who Jesus is, are a good start.” And we at AFF think that talking about Jesus in an open environment, like in a local Starbucks, with a good friend across the table, is something those nearby just might happen to notice and hear…and ask them more about who it is they’re talking about, and why…

Marcy Lytle

In a Coffee ShopAlong the Way Faith

Jake & Amanda Cofield

www.AustinFaithandFamily.comAvailable at all HEB, Randalls, & Central Market locations in the Greater Austin area10AustinFAITH & FAMILY

Invest in God...He never loses value - Isaiah 40:8 "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever." One thing you can be sure of, God's word, it is forever. It never changes and though the world around us is ever changing, His word never will.

God gave us a flashlight that never runs out...use it - Psalm 119:105 "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Always trust that God will guide you through life. Paths can be rough at times, and not always what we expect, but God is there for every twist and turn to guide us.

God loves you...smile - Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The first thing people see when they look at us is our facial expression. Make sure the world sees a smile.

God can do it all...rely on Him - Job 42:2 "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted." Rely on God fully for all that you plan to do and all that this life throws at you. If God be for you, who can stand against you?

Love like there is no tomorrow - 1 Corinthians 13:13 "And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." Love is the greatest commandment because when we love, people see Christ through us.

Thank God for His sacrifice...He loves you so much - Romans 4:8 "Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him." Through Christ we are forgiven. What a sweet thought to know that no matter what we've done, nothing separates us from Him.

Fill your heart and soul with God's word - Psalm 119:11 "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." What is the best way to be Christ-like? Fill your heart and mind with His word.

Never stop honoring God...it is our mission - Philippians 3:14 "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Run the race of life with one goal, the crown in the end.

Keep the faith...God is with you - Luke 18:1 "And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart." God is always with us. He never leaves us nor forsakes us.

Shine for God...no fear - Timothy 1:7 "God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." With God, all things are possible no matter what mountain you face; He has overcome it.

Christ died for you...live for Him - Galatians 2:19 "For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God." Live for Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith.

God is our lighthouse and refuge - Psalm 73:24 "You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory." Study the word of God...let it guide you and keep you through all of life's journey.

We can rely on God's promises - Isaiah 40:8 "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever." His word is the same today, yesterday and forever. It will never change.

Have faith -Ephesians 6:16 "In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one" In our culture we are hit with false religion and false truths that directly conflict with the Gospel. Guard yourself with the shield of faith.

God & Grace are enough - 2 Corinthians 12:9a "And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." When we are at our weakest, He is the strongest. Rely on Him in your time of weakness.

Enjoy God's love - James 1:17a "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights" He takes care of His children. Give Him the glory for all that you have.

Bring honor to God by being humble - 1 Peter 5:6 "Be humbled by God's power so that when the right time comes He will honor you." The only thing we can boast about in life is that we serve a God who loved us enough to send Jesus to die for us. Honor Him with humility.

Use God's strength to get through today...it is all we need - Ephesians 6:10 "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might." Call on God in all things. Not just when times are tough...

God won't leave you hanging - Psalm 34:9-10 "...There is no want to those who fear Him. Those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing" Seek Him and you'll find Him. Read His word and you'll know Him. Fear Him and you'll be blessed.

Relax...God gives us exactly what we need - Philippians 4:19 "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." It is a wonderful thing to know that the one who holds it all in His hands, has our needs in His control.

God is fair and will provide - Genesis 33:11 "God has dealt graciously with me... I have enough" The Lord will provide for all of your needs. He takes care of the sparrow and knows the number of hairs on your head...He knows your needs and will supply them.

God provides - Psalm 37:25 "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken nor his descendants begging bread" He knows the needs of His flock and will not let them be lacking for anything.

Wait on God...He won't forget you - Psalm 37:7 "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act." There is no timing like His timing...be still and wait for it patiently.

Look inward - Matthew 7:5 "First remove the plank from your own eye, & then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." Stop judging and start uplifting! The scriptures say to be known by your love for one another, not your judgment.

Honor God and leave justice to Him - Romans 12:17 "Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all." God will fight all of our battles for us. He can avenge the wrong done to us. We are called to walk blamelessly in the sight of the Lord.

God sees us the same - Romans 12:16 "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be conceited." You are never closer to the heart of God than when you are serving others.

God has a plan for each of us - Proverbs 19:21 "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." How do you make God laugh? Make a plan.

Be wise...seek and love God - Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight." Know God, Fear God. Wisdom will come.

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Need a morning boost? How about a drink from the Word that's full of powerful energy for your day? Take a daily sip with these short devotionals that you can read and swallow, as quick as you drink your morning coffee.

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Americans believe in marriage, but we aren’t good at it, and not as many of us believe in it as we used to.

In recent years, our views on marriage have changed and our habits and customs related to marriage have changed drastically. For instance, 70% of us have been married at least once according to the 2010 U. S. Census. A Pew Research Center and Time Magazine poll finds that 44% of Americans under the age of 30 believe marriage is becoming obsolete, but 95% of them would like to give it a try! In 1960, 70% of American adults were married; today only about half are currently married. In 2010 eight times as many children were being raised by single parents than in 1960. Research shows that we believe in marriage even though about half of our marriages fail, and a growing number of people think the institution itself is fatally flawed. We still believe in traditional stories of meeting the right person, falling in love and getting married, but our practice is often the opposite. The majority of us believe we can fall in love with more than one person in our lifetime and more of us than ever do not marry that person. Our “bi-polar” approach to marriage extends to the rules of marriage as well. Consider the story of Carol Ann Riddall and John Partilla. Their love story made national news in December 2010 because it breaks taboos about infidelity. She was a popular reporter on the NBC affiliate in New York City. He is a president of media sales at Time Warner. They were both married to other people when they met at their children’s pre-kindergarten classroom in 2006. The

connection between them was instantaneous – she saw him as “exuberant” - he called her a “force.” Before long, they left their spouses to marry each other. The New York Times carried their “love story” in the wedding section of the newspaper – setting off a firestorm of negative reaction. Even jaded New Yorkers, it seems, still react negatively to adultery. Yet in spite of our loathing of John Edwards for betraying Elizabeth, or our distaste for the New York couple’s public betrayal of their first marriage vows, we are fascinated by celebrity couples who do the same thing. Have we ever walked by a grocery store magazine rack and not noticed a headline about Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie? We have a collective “split-personality” when it comes to our views on marriage – we say one thing, yet we do another. We “despise” the spouse who cheats, but as a culture, we can’t read enough gossip about those who do it! Another example of our inconsistent practice of matrimony is the story of remarriage in America. Even though half of marriages fail, most people who divorce remarry someone else. Surprisingly, those who remarry have a higher divorce rate than they did the first time. In other words more 2nd marriages fail than first marriages and more 3rd marriages fail than 2nd marriages, and…they fail sooner! According to the National Center for Health Services, the average first marriage that ends in divorce lasts about eight years. The second marriage that fails will fail within three years! About 47% of first marriages fail, but between 60-80% of remarriages end in divorce. If adultery was the reason for the second marriage, the statistics

are staggering. An unbelievable 97% of adulterous relationships that lead to marriage, end in divorce. In this flurry of contradictory information, we are left feeling a little dizzy from the fickle nature of our views and practices concerning marriage. Is there a message from the apparent marriage “merry-go-round” in America? From one standpoint, the message seems to be that in spite of our dismal track records in the last 50 years, we are still looking for that special someone. We often fail, but not for lack of trying. Is there any hope for happiness in marriage? Yes. There is hope if we return to the original design. When the early disciples of Jesus looked at the state of marriage and divorce in their own time they asked Jesus if perhaps it would be better to never marry. Jesus, however, pointed them to the story of Adam and Eve and said, “What God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:5) Not everyone gets married, but most do. For those who do, they can expect challenges, but they should stay married. Many in our culture will argue with that viewpoint, but few could argue that our solution of divorce, remarriage, and more divorce is better. God’s way still works best.

Dr. Kie BowmanPastor, Hyde Park Baptist Church

I Do...or Do I?

Along the Way Faith


Dreaming about dancing in the clouds is fun, but "I do" with Prince Charming would be far

from floating in the heavens. And seriously...how many "charming" men have you actually met??

Now, me, I've met Peter Pan many times in my life. He’s childish, whiney, and irresponsible. He doesn't want to grow up (in fact he never may) and he probably relies on mom and dad to an exorbitant degree. BUT, Peter has great creativity. You will never have a boring date...ever. You'll go to drive-in movies, have a picnic on a raft down the river, or go sky diving. Lots of girls like him, and their jealously will warm your heart, because he picked you. Follow Peter Pan, wherever life may take him, and you will find great treasure.

My sister brought home the other day. He’s rough around the edges, an outdoorsman, rugged, and hairy, and generally...he smells. He grunts a lot, and when he's mad...you know it! Tarzan will do absolutely everything that he possibly can to make you happy because, let's face it, it freaks him out when you cry. He can't wait to show you off to his friends, and who could blame him? You will be showered with adoration in the heart of Tarzan.

I can't tell you how often I’ve met Eric in “part of our world.” You remember: the blue-eyed hunk that fell in love with a mermaid. There's just something endearing about his shy, awkward attempts at flirtation. Eric really doesn't like large group situations, he certainly won't be the life of any party, and this might infuriate you. Seriously, WHY can't he be sociable? The boy actually likes to study, he rarely shows emotion, and needs a certain amount of alone time, or he gets stressed out. He will love all your quirks and flaws...and even love you more for them. There are surprises and meaningful connections if you can get Eric to “kiss the girl.”

Aladdin is so outside the box you never know what he is going to do next! He does things his own way, regardless of what others are doing, and it will drive you crazy! Why can't he be normal?! He obsesses over movies, comic books, gaming or music - and he is impulsive. You have to wonder: can you really live with the guy? With Aladdin there is adventure, passion, and spontaneity. Each day will unveil a “whole new world.”

Oh gosh, Hercules. He's dreamy…and he knows it. He’s clueless though; and vanity is simply not an issue for this dumb jock. He forgets dates and certainly wouldn't be caught dead carrying your bags at the mall. His idea of a fun date is to see how many chin-ups he can do while giving you a piggy back ride. But Hercules has great capacity to love. He will fight monsters and cross oceans, just to see you smile. He is captivated by you and will do

remarkable things to win and protect you each day. There is unconditional LOVE and fulfillment with this zero become hero for you.

So, flawed people fall in love with flawed people. If you spend your life looking for Prince Charming, you'll find someone who may resemble him, but who is closer to Gaston: boorish, brainless, and controlling. He may bring you chocolates and flowers, but chocolates make you fat and flowers die. Repetitive compliments breed insincerity, and I have to wonder: What happens when Perfect realizes that you aren't? Loving another flawed person is hard. The toilet seat may always be up, the cereal box open, and toenail clippings hidden in the couch....but he is YOURS. He loves you when you are cranky, unkempt, and demanding. When flawed you learns to live with flawed him, be it Peter, Tarzan, Eric, Aladdin, Hercules, or some combination of the five, you will learn mercy, forgiveness, faithfulness, and grace. Every day you will develop a more Christ-like spirit. Could life be any more charming?

Kate Mullaney

Prince Charming...Really?


“Should I kiss dating goodbye?” I am asked this question often and the most honest answer is, “It depends.” It’s true that the subject of dating isn’t in the Bible; however, the subject of

relationships is everywhere in the scriptures. For the heart that desires to do things God’s way, I have three areas for you to ponder before you decide what dating should look like in your life.

First, know yourself. How well do you know your own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to the opposite sex? From high school to college, I was single for only about eight months during that time. All of those relationships were wrong for me, but I didn’t care because I didn’t want to be alone. I desired the affirmation and companionship of females more than I did of God. For that reason I pursued girls with far more intensity than I did my creator. The result? The words chaos and heartbreak come to mind. However, I’ve met folks who desire to find a spouse but know their boundaries well and will not put themselves in any situation that will tempt them to go further than God wants them to go. “No” is not a difficult word for them to use even when it’s hard. God calls us to flee from the evil desires of our youth (2 Timothy 2:22), and relationships driven by lust definitely qualify as something to flee from, if you are not ready to be married. I was weak at controlling the desires of my flesh, and back then I had no relationship with Christ. My heart was captivated by evil and I knew it.

Secondly, know your heart. Who are you really out to please by dating, you or God? The Bible says that the heart is deceitful above all things (Jeremiah 17:9). This means that if you are letting what you ‘feel is right’ be the guide for your relationship decisions then you are in for hurt. The problem is that few Christians know how to decipher what the Holy Spirit is saying versus their own heart. God will never lead us away from the wisdom in scripture; so I find that those who know God’s word best are those that most accurately discern God’s voice. If your heart does not normally hunger to please God more than it does your own desires, then I would say that traditional dating is going to be a mine field for you and you ought to consider doing it differently.

God does not want us to be alone, but that does not mean we should have 100% control over the area of dating in our lives. God desires for us is to trust him in all areas, even when it comes to our future spouse. For this reason, knowing God becomes the most important area to spend time developing prior to dating. Having an intimate relationship with Christ will keep you from many more years of bad relationships. You will avoid pitfalls and heartaches by being patient and learning to let God lead you in all areas of your life. We love God only to the degree that we know Him. Like me, the first place you may want to start is in the humble, consistent prayer of “Jesus, help me want to want you more.” This is the response of a heart that desires to do things God’s way and yet recognizes its frailty in the process.

So should you kiss dating goodbye? Maybe you should kiss YOUR way of dating goodbye. You don’t need to be alone with a person to get to know

them. Don’t set yourself up for failure by putting yourself in a position of temptation you know you are not strong enough to get out of. For a more detailed account of what dating God’s way might look like, read Boy Meets Girl by Joshua Harris. It’s important to remember that human relationships will always fail you primarily because they involve humans. On the flip side, I’m confident I could find you just less than a quarter of a billion people on this planet who would tell you that putting God first in their relationships has never failed them. The choice is yours.

Joe Elliott

20 Words has a dual meaning: it speaks to the 20-something crowd and highlights 20 words that send a message.

Should I Kiss Dating Goodbye?

20 Words:


God gave us 24 hours in a day. No more. No less. It boggles the mind (and often depresses the spirit) to think of all the things

a mom needs to accomplish in a day. Cooking and cleaning three meals a day. Transporting multiple children to multiple activities, usually at overlapping times, but opposite ends of town, can give one a migraine. And the laundry! Egads, it looks like an avalanche that could swallow a child if I miss a day. How does one do it? I can only yell in response, SCHEDULE!! Everyone has heard the saying, “A place for everything and everything in its place.” The same goes for a day's responsibilities. Another saying is, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” How true!! You can't hit the bulls-eye without aiming at it in the first place. Schedules help relieve moms of deciding what to do next. I don't have to decide it's time to do the laundry or clean the bathroom. Neither is on my list of top 10 favorite things to do, but when they are scheduled I seem to dread them less. AND I do them because they are on the schedule. I find many activities may be good but are not essential, nor part of God's plan for my day. Knowing what I have on my plate helps, so I list all that I should, need, and want to do in a day. High priorities have to come first. I homeschool. So homeschooling must take a high priority. Cooking and keeping a reasonably clean house take a close second. I don't know why, but

everybody in my family thinks they have to be fed...three times a day! Plus snacks! A little demanding, I'd say, but it does seem to make them happier and more productive. Medium priorities are extracurricular activities and play dates. Internet surfing, email, and Facebook fall into the low priority category. Once I have a prioritized list, I invite someone else to audit my work. It's no secret that I have a serious case of myopic vision. I see most things my way. So, I pray over what I have prioritized and ask my husband for his honest input, which he is always more than happy to give, much to my chagrin. This step is typically the most painful, as the Lord and my husband rearrange my priorities and make suggestions for things that weren't even on my list to begin with. Finally, I take a daily calendar with 30-minute increments and start throwing things in. Since the world doesn't completely revolve around me, I put in the scheduled assignments first, like co-op classes and music lessons. I also fill in meals at normal times. Kids like to eat at normal times. I add in things like showers (which my husband prefers I take daily) and bible time. I also try a couple of different scenarios with school to accommodate naps, younger sibling care, and energy levels. Everyone pitches in to keep our home from being condemned by the sanitation department, so I schedule in chore time.

After I have a schedule, for myself and for each of my school-age children, I again take it to the Lord and my husband for a critique. I may fail to see glaring gaps or incompatible schedules which my husband catches. He also often volunteers to help in areas where he sees a need. While he would certainly help if I asked, it means more to me that he sees and volunteers. He can't do that if I don't give him the opportunity. Communication with my spouse is an important component to successfully managing a full day. Interruptions (and there are many) are often schedule killers. So, I try to build some cushion in my day. When I have to run a child to an unexpected doctor appointment, then I either drop something in the schedule later in the day or pick up where I left off. I make the best of the time I have. What doesn't get done usually ends up being no big deal, or at least not as big a deal as I thought it would be. The first or second schedule (and sometimes the 10th or 11th) isn't always perfect, but I keep trying. I feel productive, even when everything does not get done. My children learn organization and time management skills. We are all blessed with more peace and satisfaction in our time together. Scheduling. A plan that helps prevent failure and burnout.

Georganne Schuchwww.blog.coffeedogz.net

Practical Parenting:

Family Practical ParentingDear Dads

Journey for TwoMom to Mom

A Few Good Men

1415161718


Victor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning is a piece of literature that demands something of its reader. Frankl exhibits

not only understanding in a time of desperation, but he has the uncanny ability to express his thoughts and ideas in a way that challenges the reader. In the book, he describes his time in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. His experience begged of him a response. His response was to hypothesize what he believes to be man’s ultimate meaning. He concludes that man can have a life of meaning, even in the direst of situations. No matter the circumstance, Frankl proposed, one can find meaning in life through his god, relationships, and everyday tasks.

Even though it is beyond the scope of this article, I believe that it is important to state that Frankl approaches his conclusion from a secular mindset. As believers, we know that God provides our ultimate meaning. We know that by following Him we have peace and contentment through the love and grace that He shows us. We also know that this love overflows in our hearts, and we subsequently express this overflow in everyday life by loving our neighbor. For us, God is meaning. This meaning provides purpose, and this purpose provides joy and contentment.

However, Frankl is correct. Our earthly relationships do provide some level of meaning, a secondary meaning, if you will. Whether it is our business associate, a clerk at the department store, or a buddy we’ve had since college, these relationships provide meaning. Whether we know it or not, whether we like it or not, earthly relationships are important. This fact becomes very clear in a family system.

Each of us has had and does have a family. You know the ones! Those lovely folks that you “do” life with. You see these individuals on a daily basis. They know your flaws and hang-ups, and which buttons to push. As frustrating as these relationships can be, they can also provide a ton of satisfaction, contentment, and ultimately – meaning.

Let me get this out of the way. As a male, I know that relationships tend to be difficult for you. I know that your wife and kids beg for relational attention every day and sometimes you are at your wits end with stress from work, and you do not feel like being relational when you get home. I know that you have a one-track mind and sometimes being “relational” and contacting your wife via text or email during the day is the last thing you think of doing. I say all of that to say that I understand your plight. However, we cannot use that as an excuse,

men. We were created to be in relationship. God looked at creation and called everything good, except one thing! Man being alone. But that begs the question “Why isn’t man living in isolation good?” The answer is found in Frankl’s conclusion. It’s because relationships provide meaning. We rely on people, particularly our family relationships, and their meaning ascribes us meaning.

However, it is paramount to note that this process does not just stop here. Just like we rely on our families to provide meaning to us, they rely on us to provide meaning to them. Fathers, you have a responsibility to your kids to be there for them. In my line of work, I see adults who grew up with no father. Either he was physically or emotionally absent, and, nine times out of 10, these individuals are like a ship without a rudder. They feel abandoned by one of the two people that gave them life, and they conclude that there is something wrong with them personally. This is a crime! The problem is never with the child; the onus is and always will be on you, the father.

Conversely, a father that who is there for a child, emotionally and relationally, can provide meaning for that child like no other finite relationship. Spend time with your children! Eat with them, play games with them, listen to them. Do not automatically condemn their thoughts and decisions, but respect them, correct them in love, and take them out on dates. These small relational steps can make a vast difference in what a child thinks of himself and life in general.

Fathers, think about what your life would be like without relationships. You have no friends, no coworkers; you do not randomly run into a friend you’ve known for years, no wife, no kids! Is there joy? Is there contentment? Is there meaning?

You have a responsibility to your kids. The good news is you already have an in…you’re Dad!

Joshua Myers, M.A., LPCThe Timothy Center

Dear Dads Family


Journey for Two

“Every kiss begins with Kay…” Phooey! I don’t know about you, but I’ve had about all I can take of jewelry commercials.

All through the Christmas season and now leading up to Valentine’s Day, the airwaves are saturated with sappy, sweet, sales pitches. Is there a couple gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes? There must be diamonds somewhere in the picture attempting to convince us that more diamonds equal more love. We know it’s not true, but these advertisers sure know how to play on our heart strings and stir up our expectations, don’t they?

Unrealistic ExpectationsThere is nothing like a big holiday for a big set up. It’s easy to believe that a tiny little box will guarantee relational bliss. I am guilty of falling for the Hollywood hype. I remember as a new bride, crying in my pillow because life wasn’t like the movies. It was hard, and David didn’t know my every thought before I spoke it. For some reason, I thought he would. We had disagreements and conflict. We hurt each other and I wasn’t expecting that.

For a guy, it would seem like the fail-safe way to win a girl’s heart is a diamond. What then? That’s when things get complicated, because he has to talk to her and listen to her and then….she’s still going to want him to read her mind! Unrealistic expectations have a way of setting us up for disappointment. Hope deferred makes the heart sick. (Proverbs 13:12). I’m not always the dream girl that David hoped for. There is never a sunset back-lighting my hair with an angelic glow when I say something to leave him longing.

Healthy ExpectationsWe can try to self-protect by killing expectation but we’re not sure that is the best response. Healthy expectations have a way of lifting people up and out of the ordinary. When we know that our workout buddy is waiting for us at the gym – there is additional motivation to get there. When a child hears “you can do it” - they get that little boost that propels them over the fear of trying something new. Expectancy brings buoyancy to the heart. When our spouse says “I believe in you” - we just might dare to

believe in ourselves, too. The fact that someone who sees it all still sees our potential is a real gift.

Misplaced ExpectationsExpectation is a risky endeavor, but it is something we find throughout the Bible. Words like hope, longing, faith, and trust. Expectation fits somewhere on that scale of desire. The problem is that we have a tendency to misplace our expectation and set it squarely on the shoulders of our spouse. Psalms 62:5 says “My soul, wait only upon God and silently submit to Him; for my hope and expectation are from Him.” It helps sometimes to have a little talk with yourself, to remind you of the source of your hope and expectation. There is one jewelry commercial that is a little easier to tolerate. I’m sure you’ve seen it. Two ice skaters venture out on the frozen lake. He slips and she is there at his side to steady him. Then she goes weak in the knee and he offers a strong arm to hold her. Trying not to focus on the little box in the middle of the scene, what we take away is a hopeful reality. More than likely, someone is going to slip up. We are weak at times and it is good to know that we have someone to lean on. We can expect that we will need to lean on each other. Try this:• Ask God to reveal to you any unrealistic

expectations. You may need to ask your spouse to forgive you. Then determine to place your hope in the Lord.

• Take some time to write a note to your spouse, and tell them of the potential you see hidden or just beneath the surface of their lives.

• The next time a jewelry commercial pops up in the middle of a football game prove to the family that not EVERY kiss begins with Kay!

David & Lynn CherryStaff, Shoreline Church

What Can You Expect?Family


Signed, Sealed, Delivered...

It's Canned!A large percentage

of our society will resolve this year

to improve their lives in one way, or another. Weight loss and healthier lifestyle consistently tend to be the front-runners on those New Years Resolution lists. And with the health movement sweeping our country, I wanted to explore how my grandmothers used to eat, compared to how we eat today. Particularly, how canning our foods is very much a thing of the past, with the increased accessibility to frozen foods, fruits and vegetables in the supermarkets, along with the availability of finding them already canned in tins as well.

Sweet MamaFaye recalls, “When I was little and we lived in East Texas, Daddy kept a huge garden. We would eat off of it almost every meal. The meals were fresher since they were picked right out of

the backyard. Then they canned everything out of it:

peas, beans, corn, tomatoes, anything that was in abundance,

as nothing was wasted in those days.” Since we are so fortunate to

live in a time of such abundance, I

naturally didn’t realize just how much canning was the best way to preserve the summer harvest and enjoy it all through the winter.

BeBe remembered it much of the same way. Although she didn’t can much when she was raising her family, she recalled her mother doing so often. It was much more a way of life back then. “You grow a garden, but hated to see any of it not used, so naturally, you can it so it can be used past it’s time in the garden,” BeBe said. “Even though you can buy those things off the shelf at the market today, doesn’t mean it’s good for you. The cans have a lot of other stuff in it to help the food last for years and years. I think it’s one of the many things causing so much cancer!” She continued.

The message from my dear grandmothers? Not only to live a healthier lifestyle all around, but to be more mindful about what is wasted. We may not have the time, space or know-how to tend to gardens in our backyards like they did, but we have almost endless possibilities as far as healthy choices are concerned. For example, a lined tin-can of corn or corn fresh from the cob? Pre-packaged fruit swimming in high sugar and preservative filled juice, or a simple pear from the fruit stand? In addition, since we have access to so many (and sometimes unlimited) resources to acquire what we need, or even want, it is helpful to remember that at one time, not only was nothing was wasted, but people worked extra hard to be sure they used everything they had. Turning off the water while brushing our teeth, and eating the foods that go bad first, are examples of little things that will help us to resolve to be less wasteful. And most importantly, more health conscious!

BeBe is famous for a quirky, but oh so yummy, recipe! When poured over cream cheese and served alongside Ritz crackers, it has just the right amount of spicy with sweet. It is always a hit at showers and potluck functions! Dust off your canner (if you have one!) and try this!

BeBe’s Jalapeño Jelly (makes 7 half pint jars)

¾ cup seeded fresh jalapenos¾ cup green or red bell peppers1 ½ cups apple cider vinegar6 ½ cups sugar1 bottle pectin Grind jalapenos and peppers. Add apple cider vinegar and sugar. Mix all ingredients EXCEPT pectin and boil for 5 minutes-COOL for 20 minutes, return to fire and stir for 2 minutes, then add bottle of pectin and stir for 4 minutes, then pour into sterilized containers and seal. (I add a little extra jalapeno juice (1 cup instead of 3/4) - makes it better!)

Pieper Stewart

Betty and Faye are my two grandmothers, ages 85 and 75. As a mother myself, I've had an especially strong yearning to learn all I can about their experiences raising children.

This column compares and contrasts what I've learned and hold dear, mom to mom, from these precious two women I

admire and love.

Mom to Mom Family


I love Thanksgiving, perhaps as much as any holiday - at least the food part. I’m a sucker for turkey, especially the sandwiches the next

day or two. And pumpkin pie with whipped cream? What else can I say? It’s like Heaven. But one Thanksgiving, my daughter Amy and I had one of the best holidays ever and in the process learned some golden life lessons. We decided to skip the football games and went and served food for the needy. A local high school had asked for volunteers to come and help them provide a delicious meal to local families, so we signed up.

For several hours, we stood next to each other dishing out corn, green beans, potatoes, desserts and of course turkey. We didn’t talk much to people but they saw our smiles and we heard their genuine “Thank you.” Single moms, families, grandparents and children came through the line. We weren’t on television and very few even knew we had gone, but we knew. And God knew.

So much provided for kids today is about them. They have multiple sports, lessons, clubs and tournaments to keep them busy during every season of the year. In many cases, parents and their kids hardly have time for a meal together much less the time to go care for someone else. Something is wrong with that picture. Our kids need to learn and to experience serving others. Jesus told us that He came not to serve but be served and He is the model we are to emulate, right? Dad, you will have some of your greatest, most alive moments, when you’re serving others with your children! More than catching a pass on the football field, scoring the winning point, or starring in the school play, you’ll find watching them minister to others will grab your heart and soul. In fact, I now see my adult daughter and her husband regularly looking for everyday ways, and even making life decisions, that center around service. Nothing could make a parent more proud.

What will serving with your kids do for you and them? First, it will remind them regularly that the world does not spin around them. Of course there’s nothing wrong with kids setting goals for themselves, overcoming obstacles, and even winning awards. There’s a time and place for all that, and those things have their value. But if we don’t balance all of that with an outward focus, our kids can begin to think that they are the center of the universe; that the family’s resources should be diverted towards them, and that accomplishments really do bring fulfillment. Why have them learn the hard way some day that not everyone thinks they are wonderful and that the next step up the business, education or ever church ladder will not make them happy?

Second, you get to spend time together. Too many activities for parents these days involve sitting in the stands, serving concessions, or just watching from the seats in the auditorium. We aren’t really doing anything with our kids. We’re just watching them perform. And while being there to support them is noble and important, it will never equal working alongside one another doing something that really matters.

Third, you honor Christ. Jesus told us to love others with all our heart, soul and mind. All through the Scriptures we’re told that we must be doers of the word and put our faith into action. If you want your kids to know what it’s like to be a servant like Jesus was, go serve like Jesus served!

Start with your own church. What serving opportunities do they already provide? It’s likely that they have groups who distribute food, get clothes together, and provide practical assistance. If so, start there. What local ministries does the church support? Find out and then make some

phone calls asking how you can volunteer. Do they do missions trips? Plan to be a part of one soon. Find out what’s going on in your community, town or city. Most groups can’t find enough volunteers so be a part of their solution. Look around your neighborhood. Is there a widow, single mom, sick person or family going through challenges that you could help? Probably. Go offer to help.

Whatever you do, don’t make it a one-time thing. Keep going back if you can. Start getting to know people even if it’s long distance. And when it’s all said and done, you’ll probably one day see your kids just naturally serving others and you yourself will feel alive again!

Gary SinclairDirector of Pastoral Care

Austin Christian Fellowship

Developing a Powerful Serve at Home

A Few Good MenFamily


In 1981, the first modern classical Christian school in the U.S. opened its doors with the goal of providing a high quality Christian

education. Following the vision presented by Dorothy Sayers in her 1947 speech at Oxford University, the school used the classical Trivium model to educate its students. Ten years later, Douglas Wilson, one of the founders of the school and who is now considered the father of the current classical movement, wrote a book entitled Recovering the Lost Tools of Learning,”which chronicled the first years of the school and its approach to classical Christian education. This book initiated an educational movement that has swept the country. Classical Christian schools began forming at a rate of about 14 per year, requiring the formation of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools (ACCS) to handle requests for assistance and information. Today the ACCS serves over 230 member schools enrolling over 33,000 students. Each year the ACCS hosts an annual conference including hundreds of school leaders, teachers and parents. The growth of this movement is depicted in Figures A and B to the left.

From the beginning, this movement has focused on two goals: Christ-centered classical instruction and academic effectiveness. Using the model of education developed over 2000 years ago by the Greek and Roman cultures, and refined throughout the Middle Ages, the founders of that first modern classical Christian school set to work educating young minds. Thirty years later there is much anecdotal and statistical evidence that classical Christian instruction provides students an outstanding education.

Visit any classroom at a classical Christian school and you will experience firsthand the kind of evidence that excites parents. Students are engaged in learning, respectful of their peers and teachers, and genuinely excited to be a part of the class and the school. You might ask “What makes this model of education so much more engaging than another?” While the complete answer would be long and involved; the short answer

is pairing instruction with the natural stages of child development, while partnering with parents rather than replacing parents in the education process. The biblical model of education puts the responsibility squarely on the shoulders of parents. Engaging parents as partners in the education of their child(ren) imparts ownership of and accountability for their child’s learning.

The statistical evidence for classical Christian education comes from a large pool of students and schools from across the nation. Figure C to the left depicts SAT score data collected by the ACCS and the College Board for the class of 2010. You will find similar contrasting data points on other standardized tests like the ACT and the PSAT.1

Grace Academy, like many classical Christian schools, is also observing strong anecdotal and statistical evidence of the strength of this model. In 2010 alone, multiple students at Grace received national academic honors including: 1st place overall at the National Junior Classical League convention; two National Merit Scholars, and seven selectees to the Duke Talent Identification Program (over half of the eligible students). Two students also scored a perfect 800 on the Writing portion of the SAT test. And while the school and the parents are ecstatic about these accolades, they pale in comparison to the successes witnessed daily in the forming of young minds and hearts through this powerful model. A summary of current testing data from Grace Academy is illustrated in Figures D and E to the left.

If you have a desire to learn more about this growing movement, one that has influenced universities to create new departments and programs based on the work of the ACCS, consider visiting a classical Christian school in your area. Central Texas is home to three ACCS member schools.1 Make an appointment today to visit one or all of them this spring.

Ashley Brinkoeter

1 Available on the ACCS website at www.accsedu.org

Classical Christian Education Produces Results


February 4 Go Red for Women National Wear Red Day – The Domain.Women and men everywhere are encouraged to wear red to raise awareness that heart disease is the #1 killer of women, and to make a donation to support the American Heart Association. Domain retail locations will be hosting in-store events, and festivities will include a press conference at 10am and Go Red Connect event at Macy’s to follow. February 5 Winter Concert – Alma Thomas Theater Southwestern University starting at 7:30pm.Austin Civic Orchestra welcomes internationally recognized violinist Andrews Sords to perform Sarasate’s Carmen Fantaisie. Music director and Southwestern University Professor Dr. Lois Ferrari will also present Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1 in E Minor. February 10 Centershot – The Lakeway Church starting at 6 pm.Centershot, a program combining the life skills of archery and Bible Study; open to all area residents from 3rd grade through adults. February 11 The Art of Marriage – New Hope Community Church.New Hope Community Church in Round Rock will be one of 1100 churches hosting Art of Marriage, a video-based marriage conference and fresh approach, to help couples fully experienced God’s design for marriage. February 12 The Art of Marriage – New Hope Community ChurchNew Hope Community Church in Round Rock will be one of 1100 churches hosting Art of Marriage, a video-based marriage conference and fresh approach, to help couples fully experienced God’s design for marriage. February 14 Early Detection Saves Lives! Free Mammograms – Abiding Love Lutheran Church.Free mammograms are available for women 40 and over who qualify, by Seton Family of Hospitals and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Call 512-505-5528 to schedule your appointment and further information. February 15 The Austin Disaster Relief Network – Hill Country Baptist Church at various times.Community Emergency Response Training is backed by FEMA and taught by ADRN certified instructor, David Stone. Course cost is $95. In order to receive a certificate and ADRN badge, you must complete all days of training. February 16 The Power Team – Main Street Baptist Church in Georgetown starting at 7pm.The Power Team is a group of world class athletes who have performed the world’s greatest exhibitions of power, strength, speed, inspiration, and motivations in every state and in over 40 countries for over 30 years. February 17 The Austin Disaster Relief Network – Hill Country Baptist Church at various times.Community Emergency Response Training is backed by FEMA and taught by ADRN certified instructor, David Stone. Course cost is $95. In order to receive a certificate and ADRN badge, you must complete all days of training.

The Power Team – Main Street Baptist Church in Georgetown starting at 7pm.The Power Team is a group of world class athletes who have performed the world’s greatest exhibitions of power, strength, speed, inspiration, and motivations in every state in over 40 countries for over 30 years. February 18 The Power Team – Main Street Baptist Church in Georgetown starting at 7 pm.The Power Team is a group of world class athletes who have performed the world’s greatest exhibitions of power, strength, speed, inspiration, and motivations in every state and in over 40 countries for over 30 years. February 19 The Power Team – Main Street Baptist Church in Georgetown starting at 7pm.The Power Team is a group of world class athletes who have performed the world’s greatest exhibitions of power, strength, speed, inspiration, and motivations in every state and in over 40 countries for over 30 years. Women Under Construction – Woodlawn Baptist Church starting at 9am.The Scripture reminds us that we are God’s workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works. The retreat will begin with a generational core breakout session designed especially for the place that you are in your life, followed by three elective sessions. February 20 The Power Team – Main Street Baptist Church in Georgetown starting at 7pmThe Power Team is a group of world class athletes who have performed the world’s greatest exhibitions of power, strength, speed, inspiration, and motivations in every state and in over 40 countries for over 30 years. Trinity Chapel Homecoming Service – Trinity Chapel 5201 Martin Ave. starting at 10:30am. Come join us! Speaker John Norvell. February 22 The Austin Disaster Relief Network – Hill Country Bible Church at various times.Community Emergency Response Training is backed by FEMA and taught by ADRN certified instructor, David Stone. Course cost is $95. In order to receive a certificate and ADRN badge, you must complete all days of training. February 25 2nd Annual ABC Sale – First Evangelical Free Church at various times.This big consignment sale will benefit the FEFC chapter of MOPS consisting of maternity, baby, and kid clothes, toys, furniture and more! Admission is free; cash sales only. The Austin Disaster Relief Network – Hill Country Bible Church at various times.Community Emergency Response Training is backed by FEMA and taught by ADRN certified instructor, David Stone. Course cost is $95. In order to receive a certificate and ADRN badge, you must complete all days of training. Zac Poonen Conference – First Cumberland Presbyterian Church at various times.Brother Zac Poonen will be speaking in Austin. The theme for the conference is The Overcoming Life. If you plan to attend, please register. February 26 2nd Annual ABC Sale – First Evangelical Free Church at various times.The big consignment sale will benefit the FEFC chapter of MOPS consisting of maternity, baby, and kid clothes,

toys, furniture and more! Admission is free; cash sales only. “All You Need is Love” Make a Difference Benefit Gala – Austin Music Hall starting at 5pm. Proceeds benefit the severely abused and neglected girls at the residential treatment facility New Life Children’s Center in Canyon Lake, TX. Muscle Walk – Barton Creek Square Mall starting at 8am. The Muscular Dystrophy Association is celebrating their annual charity walk. The premise is simple – create a team, raise money for research, then celebrate your team’s success by walking a one-mile “victory lap” inside Barton creek Square. The Austin Disaster Relief Network – Hill Country Bible Church at various times.Community Emergency Response Training is backed by FEMA and taught by ADRN certified instructor, David Stone. Course cost is $95. In order to receive a certificate and ADRN badge, you must complete all days of training. Zac Poonen Conference – First Cumberland Presbyterian Church at various times.Brother Zac Poonen will be speaking in Austin. The theme for the conference is The Overcoming Life. If you plan to attend, please register. February 27 Zac Poonen Conference – First Cumberland Presbyterian Church at various times.Brother Zac Poonen will be speaking in Austin. The theme for the conference is The Overcoming Life. If you plan to attend, please register.

Submit calendar entries to [email protected] by the 15th of the preceding month.

February 2011February

Student of the MonthHardy Hurley just graduated from Harbor Leadership Academy mid-year because he worked really hard to complete all of his requirements. Harbor is a self-pace school that enabled Hardy to “finish the hard subjects first; then the easier ones could be faster.”

Hardy states, “I loved my teachers and my friends at Harbor. There was a personal touch and care that is special in a school.”

Now that he’s graduated, Hardy shared that he wants to “take time to invest in what God created me to do.” At first, Hardy rode with the Pflugerville Fire Department, thinking he might enjoy being a fireman. He’s not sure that is his “call,” but he wants to be ready to go where God leads.

Tobin, Hardy’s older brother, is his hero. “He always shows unconditional love to me and everyone around him. I am thankful that he is my brother.” Milton, Hardy’s dog (a Corgi) is the “best,” and pizza is Hardy’s food of choice, which he enjoys at youth group every week.

Knowing God is ordering his steps, and with continued motivation, Hardy’s future is bright. As he puts it, “Life is good.”

Marcy Lytle

February Home Gamesat the Cedar park Center

5 saturday, vs. erie 12:00pm 10 Thursday, vs. Rio Grande V. 7:30pm 12 saturday, vs. Rio Grande V. 12:00pm 24 Thursday, vs. new Mexico 7:30pm 26 saturday, vs. new Mexico 12:00pm


the SOURCE

To have your church or non-profit listed for as little as $12 a month, please call

512.584.6888

512.758.7686www.CforR.org

Caring Family Network877.719.3222

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communities

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Round Rock................................................512.310.1060Pflugerville.............................................512.538.1152West Austin................................................512.472.6339South Austin...............................................512.445.5552NW/Cedar Park/Leander...................512.250.5021

Family Link Kids512.947.7306

www.FamilyLinkKids.orgGet involved & make a difference

Grace Academy512.864.9500

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Head to Heart Restoration Ministry512.236.1718

www.HeadtoHeart.org

Hope Street512.236.1718

Transforming our city one life at a time...

Colin's Hope512.524.6737

www.ColinsHope.org

Round Rock Area Serving Center512.244.2431

www.ServingCenter.org

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Our Savior Lutheran1513 E. Yager Lane, 78753

512.836.9600

-Lutheran

Hyde Park Baptist Church3901 Speedway, 78751

www.hpbc.org

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Solid Rock Baptist Church608 Ralph Ablanedo Dr., 78748

[email protected]

A Church for the Deaf and Hearing

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www.AustinFoodBank.orgHunger is Unacceptable

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New Hope Community Church2330 Dry Creek Dr.

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In June of 2009, Lee and Amanda founded Austin Faith & Family magazine, seeking to bring to Austin a faith-based publication that would be a resource for the church, the family, and Austin's faith-based community. As parents of four children under the age of six, they value family time, in addition to their ministry through this magazine. In January 2011, they launched 1633 Ministries, which includes this magazine for families, and two shoe ministries--one for kids, and another for the homeless. Please visit www.1633ministries.com for more information.

To AdverTise wiTh AusTin FAiTh & FAmily, CAll 512-584-6888.Lee & Amanda Eddins

Men's Studies:First Baptist Church Round Rock-

Thursdays, 6am in the Fellowship Hall Call 512- 255-3454 Troy George

Main Street Baptist Georgetown- Thursdays, 6:30am in the Fellowship Hall

Call 512- 869-7854

Einstein Brothers Bagles- Wednesdays, 6am at Braker & 183

Women's Studies:LoveWalk Young Women's Bible Study

New Hope Community ChurchFridays, 7pm

[email protected]

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So…it’s Valentine’s Day again, and I’ve been told (and I agree) that it’s very hard to think of something to give our husbands and/or boyfriends. It seems that we always want our dates to think of something romantic, unique, personal, and creative – something that “wows” us – but how often do we give something that “wows” him? I asked…and they replied…so here’s what the guys said they’d love to receive from their sweetheart this year:

1. A trip away for the weekend – If you’re married and you haven’t had a

weekend away with your husband, why not surprise him and plan a night away? Or why not ask a friend to keep the kids, and plan a “getaway” in the privacy of your own home?

2. Flowers - Believe it or not, some men want flowers. Imagine his surprise, when

he receives a special delivery just for him, with a love note attached!

3. Movie - Is there a movie HE wants to see? Call him and ask him out on a date, and

then pick him up and hand him tickets to the movie of his choice, sit by him and hold his hand, and who knows – you might even like the movie yourself!

4. Hands on - Yes, we hear that men like foot-rubs and massages… not pedicures

or manicures! I doubt you will need a fragrant lotion or soothing music, but rather just some tender, loving care as you rub his tired feet, or aching back.

5. Meat - A 24-ounce steak! Make him eat

healthy food the other 364 days of the year, but on this one special day, let him order that piece of meat that you could never eat! Even if the size of it makes you wince, just change that wince to a wink, and he’ll thank you for the rest of the year!

6. More food - While we’re on the subject of food…some men like a box of Turtles or

a bag of beef jerky. Simple, inexpensive, and easy to find…easy to please…

7. His day - Ever heard of a “man’s day out?” Neither had I, but that’s what one

man answered. And just what does that look like? A round of regular golf, maybe some fishing, and then Frisbee golf. Oh, and one more thing – they want this day to themselves – sans the lady…

8. His day off - Instead of a “honey-do” list, how about giving him a “do-nothing” list

or a “honey-do hiatus?” Write it inside the card you give him for Valentine’s Day and watch his facial expression as he reads his gift, in unbelief.

9. Serenity – A quiet night at home is sure to please the man who works in noise, the

dad who has lots of small children, and the man who likes to wind down with a good book. If you can somehow make this night happen, you’ll be loved forever…

10. An expensive gift – If there’s a sporting event

in the weeks ahead, see if you can afford tickets for two and a night out with him. If there’s an electronic device he’s been eyeing and you have a little “extra,” then splurge on this treat for him.

Whatever you do - do it without expecting anything in return, just out of pure love for the gift He is to you – giving thanks to your true Valentine – up above….

What a Man Wantsfor Valentines Day

BY MArCY LYTLE

Another great Christian publication in the Austin area:

Pick one up in select HEBs in the area.

Life Ladies Top 10Out & About

Erin's Cooking

222324


Out & About Life

The Austin area museums and libraries hold some fun and unique treasures, right in central Austin. In light of this, may I suggest

taking off to spend the day exploring some of these wonderful places? Since breakfast is a necessity in my book, we should fuel up before our roundup! Austin has so many wonderful shops for a good cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, to go along with donuts or bagels, that to start listing would be extensive. We could also pack a picnic breakfast, as our first stop would be a perfect setting, if the weather is good!

The Texas Capitol is a good starting point and is at the southern point of our museum roundup. Of course, it is not really a museum but has many historic aspects in and around it which are especially interesting, such as pictures of all the past governors of Texas, statues of Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, along with the beautiful art displayed in the dome. We can catch a free tour with a guide starting at 8:30 weekdays and 9:30 Saturday, or 12:00 on Sunday. During the week, if the state Congress is in session, we can actually sit in the balcony and observe what is taking place on the floor! And we can’t forget to take some crumbs from breakfast to feed the squirrels. They are quite entertaining on the Capitol grounds and

on the UT campus.

Next we are headed to the LBJ Library which is open 9-5 every day and

is entirely free. They have traveling exhibits as well as numerous exhibits from the Johnson Era presidency, including one of his Cadillacs, and many other personal possessions of the Johnson family. The grounds are really pretty with a fountain and fascinating architecture. There is quite a bit of walking involved but plenty of room for kids to run around and work off energy before going inside to the exhibit. So far, all of this is free and can we can explore as long as we want. If we are really interested in history and read all of the exhibit information, this could be our last stop. However, I suspect most will want to move on to the next free historic building, the UT tower!

It is difficult to catch the Tower Tours when they are open, so we must schedule in advance if we want to have a tour of the observation deck. Currently, it is closed but will reopen in the spring.

The whole building is intriguing so we must visit the grounds and inside the base of the tower. It is beautiful and historic. The view of the city from the steps is superb! Behind the tower is a pond where we can see many turtles in a natural stream hanging out in the sun. This is a nice place for a rest or a picnic lunch, or we can pick up some food at one of many local favorites in the area.

If we still have energy, we will head to the Texas Memorial Museum, 2400 Trinity, which is a fascinating experience! They have dinosaur skeletons and extensive fossil and ancient relic

collections, along with some beautifully colored rock collections. We might want to go back here and spend another entire day, as the collection is extensive. It was voted the Best Museum in Austin for Children, and it is also FREE!

The roundup would not be complete without including The Bob Bullock Texas History Museum, Harry Ransom Center, and The Blanton Museum of Art. The Bob Bullock Texas History Museum and The Blanton are the only museums listed here that have an admission charge, but they are still worth the time and money. This will “round out” the “roundup” experience of these awesome Austin museum treasures.

Vicki Lancaster

Museum Roundup


Have you ever heard of someone being addicted to store brand products? I know I haven’t. What about someone being addicted to some name brand products, as if no other brand could possibly compare? While store brand products are usually lower in cost and

sometimes just as effective, consumers often feel more comfortable purchasing name brand products. Why? It’s because they deliver a promise of being and/or tasting the best. Take Starbucks, for example. People make light of the joke that paying $5 for a latte is insane. Yet, come 7 a.m. Monday morning, there is a line out the door and into the street! I must confess I am a coffee snob. The product Starbucks offers is worth the extra change; however, I don’t feel the same about all name brands. While shopping at the grocery store the other day, I was on the hunt for cranberry juice that is just that—juice—and not fruit-flavored syrup. I compared the ingredient labels of one name brand and one store brand bottle. To my utter shock I noticed that the store brand cranberry juice actually was made of 3% MORE fruit juice than the name brand, AND was about 50 cents cheaper! I’m a bargain shopping college student, so you bet your buttons I went home with store brand cranberry juice. Now, I have had my fair share of store brand product disappointments. You know, the ones that taste like someone woke up one morning, said “I think I’ll create a cheap cereal today, even though I have no idea what I am doing, and then I’ll sell it!” Somewhere along the way I was influenced into thinking, ‘If it ain’t name brand it ain’t worth my money, no matter how cost effective.’ If this is your idea as well, I am determined to change it. As I was eating breakfast this morning, Berry Oatmeal (recipe follows), I had an epiphany. Making a conscious effort to balance store brands and name brands can keep me from buying unnecessary and expensive brand name products, because some store brand products really are of the same quality caliber. Instant oatmeal is a perfect example! What makes the oats, that the Quaker Oats guy is selling, so much more appealing than Target brand oats? It’s not like comparing apples to oranges. Save yourself the extra dollar and buy the oats without the face. As for things like preserves and jams, read the labels. The nutritional value of most name brand jelly is well worth the extra dollar. When comparing frozen fruit to use for smoothies or just to snack on, the name brand package might be more visually appealing, but a strawberry is a strawberry. Naturally, a strawberry grows from the ground, free from marketing ploys and pricing mark-ups. Give the underdog a break and put some money back in your pocket.

Erin OsborneStudio Kitchen

1 serving/packet of plain oatmeal (made with milk NOT water)1 Tbsp. Smuckers Strawberry Preserves or Jam1 handful of fresh or frozen mixed berries Directions: Prepare oatmeal according to package instructions. Stir in preserves or jam and berries.

1 Head of Iceberg or Romaine lettuce (cheaper than pre-chopped, bagged lettuce), chopped1 Red Tomato, chopped, or a handful of grape tomatoes1 chopped Gala apple¼ cup dried cranberries1 lemon1 package Starkist Lemon Pepper Tuna1 Tbsp. (or more if you like) mayonnaisesalt & pepperTostitos Tortilla Chips with a Hint of Lime

Directions: Prepare tuna with mayonnaise and salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. Combine lettuce, tomato, apple, and cranberries in large bowl. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad. Serve with tuna and tortilla chips. Yum!

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I recall reading an article in an American Cosmopolitan Magazine about 20 years ago. I was living in South Africa at the time. The article was something along the lines of “How to entertain your man with a home cooked meal.” It described how to “open a can” of this and “add a bag” of that and, voila! – a “home cooked” meal that “your man” was supposed to be impressed with! Yes, that was the concept of a home-cooked meal.

My husband was born and raised in South Africa where he pretty much, by default, grew up on organically grown food. “Big farming” as we know it in the U.S. was not part of the picture. Small local

farmers and the kind of food we get at farmers’ markets today was pretty much the standard. While living there for 13 years, I saw people still cook. What do I mean by that? Well, it means that if a recipe calls for browned onions, you actually start with an onion! You peel it, cut it, dice it and then brown it in a pan with some butter and oil. If you need to add tomatoes, you add fresh ones. Same for herbs. If the ingredients need to simmer, for flavors to develop, then simmering occurs. That is cooking - a little different from opening a can.

America is an amazing country in so many ways. My husband always talks about how South Africans admire our ability to develop systems. The efficiency of McDonalds, our ability to build homes, highways, computers, and generally “use the right tool for the job,” and do things the way they ought to be done, is very much admired by others. Much of what we take for granted has not yet been achieved elsewhere.

So, what happened to our food? Well, that drive for efficiency created a farming system that some would describe as a Frankenstein monster – something completely unnatural. During the Cold War Era, the push for becoming independent of food imports from other countries created tremendous pressure to grow corn. Corn yields per acre have “improved” fantastically over the last 40-50 years. Then we started feeding corn to cows. Cows are supposed to eat grass, and when they did not do well on corn, we started giving them antibiotics and growth hormones… You get the idea?

All of this “progress” helped to keep the cost of food very low. So low, that we could afford to eat out – a LOT! And who needs to learn how to cook when you can eat out? Cooking became a lost art. But we are Americans and we can fix anything…

Thanks to television, the concept of cooking is becoming known again. Young people love watching food channels. We have many celebrity chefs now! In fact, we have a food revolution. One of my favorite authors on this subject is Michael Pollan (www.michaelpollan.com.) For now, here are just a few of my favorite food rules from Mr Pollan:

- Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.- Avoid food products containing ingredients that a third-grader cannot pronounce.- Shop the peripheries of the supermarket and stay out of the middle.- Eat only foods that will eventually rot.- Eat only foods that have been cooked by humans.- It’s not food if it arrived through the window of your car.- Eat all the junk food you want as long as you cook it yourself.- Eat when you are hungry, not when you are bored.- Serve a proper portion and don’t go back for seconds.- Don’t get your fuel from the same place your car does.- Do all your eating at a table.

At my business, The Studio Kitchen, we cook. Visit our kitchen and you will see our chefs (yes, humans) in action. We take the steps required to make good food. People enjoy our food and keep coming back. For more about how we do things, visit www.thestudiokitchen.com.

Eat better. Feel better. And when you can, cook!

Laura BezdenThe Studio Kitchen

Eating In America


Ryan RushA Passionate PastorConnecting Church & Home

At age 14, he felt the “call.” At age 15, he got his hardship license so that he could drive and be on staff at First Baptist Church in Dale, Texas. Ryan Rush, now Pastor of Bannockburn Baptist Church here in

Austin, with 2500 members strong, started out in a small Texas town, in a church of about 40 members. He says he has never strayed from the core principles he learned as a teenager, one of which includes cross-generational ministry. He was taught that the old bring life to the young, and the young offer honor to the old, and this is just one way to strengthen a church body.

Ryan was a youth pastor in the late 80’s and early 90’s, and stated that he observed this: “There is just so much a church program can do to bring about life change.” He further stated that families don’t need more information, as they have plenty of it. Neither do they need motivation, because they truly want to live an abundant life. However, Ryan states there is a “separation” problem - a gap between Jesus at church – and Jesus at home. The antidote to this separation is to live out God’s promises by using tools which he calls “faith breakthroughs,” or home life principles.

One of the greatest joys Ryan has experienced as a pastor is seeing these life changes take place in the lives of individuals, and in the lives of families. Watching barriers that stretch across generations


come down, seeing bitterness erased, and observing “God invade people’s real lives, not rituals on Sunday” is what brings joy to Ryan’s heart. One particular story Pastor Rush shared was of Brad, a guy who was raised in the church, but, like many others, strayed away and lost the authenticity of a walk with Christ. Because of addiction, Brad almost lost his family. However, Brad chose to receive God’s promises and recently shared with the congregation how God changed his life and set him free, stating “We don’t have to be stuck anymore.” Healing happens, and that’s what the job of being a pastor is all about – having the privilege of seeing that healing occur in the hearts of people.

Ryan’s great passion is to connect the church and home. He feels that this is his purpose on earth, and he seeks every avenue he can to make that connection a reality. Not only does Ryan pastor a church where he has the opportunity to share his passion with the Body of Christ, Ryan also hosts a talk show on The Word Radio Station, and he has a new book release coming out February 11, called Walls. On the talk show, Ryan states “No subject is taboo.” Pastor Rush provides biblical solutions to the home life issues that come up during the show. The Word Radio Station has over 30,000 listeners, and Ryan’s show is extremely popular across all ages, genders, and races. Sometimes controversial issues pop up, but Ryan enjoys facilitating the conversations. One particular topic of controversy across the nation found its way into the talk show, that of the Muslim Mosque in New York. Some listeners were surprised by Ryan’s idea of accepting the mosque being built, and then suggesting the idea of building an evangelism center right across the street. We ourselves were surprised to learn that many listeners like to call in and complain about church music or denominations. Some shows leave a mark on all listeners, including the host himself, Ryan says. The Fort Hood shooting, the plane that rammed into the IRS building, and the earthquake in Haiti, are among the topics that united all listeners, no matter their stance on other issues.

Ryan states that he has been involved in talk radio since his days back in Virginia when he spoke on a 50,000 watt radio station, on The Life & Family Show. ABC News Central even gave Ryan a 90-second spot on the noon news to share family tidbits of wisdom and hope for listeners. He was amazed at how often he and his wife would go out in the public and have listeners recognize him and come right up to

him and ask for prayer! Here in Austin, he has an atheist who listens to his show daily and even sends Ryan cookies.

If Ryan had a message to share with other pastors, he states it would be about the three walls that need to come down. The first is Pride – where one church looks at another thinking they have “nothing to offer,” just because their doctrines differ on some fine points. The second wall is Prejudice – not racial – but the kinds that says, “I know all about you,” and “your kind” or “your neighborhood.” The final of the three walls is Preservation – maintaining “my corner” out of fear of someone crossing into “my space.” Ryan was especially anxious to share with us about the Austin Guatemala Project (www.

austinguatemala.com), an adventure that began when Pastor Rush and his oldest daughter visited Pueblo Modelo (ironically translated “Model Village) and witnessed an entire group of 3,000 people who were living without clean water. Since that first visit, 25 local Austin pastors have connected their hearts and started giving to this same village. A clean, water well is being built, and three homes have been erected. After Ryan and his daughter returned to Austin from the Guatemala trip, the entire family was driving down Congress Avenue and saw Iglesia Verbo Church, a place they had previously never noticed. However, his daughter cried out as she recognized a member standing outside, who had been to Guatemala with them. A wall had come down, when like-minded people began to serve together in a foreign land, and friendships resulted back at home.

Ryan loves Austin, he loves his job as pastor at Bannockburn, and he is eternally passionate

about connecting church and home. His desire is this – “To see the home resurface as the hub of spiritual life among believers.” Ryan’s new book Walls is all about what Ryan believes we all need in order to help us live out our faith in home life. In the book, he hopes to provide tools and an outline for parents by addressing barriers, not just providing more information. The assessment tool for individuals or church leaders can be found at www.faithbreakthroughs.com and it’s free to those who need it. In fact, over fifty churches in the Austin area will participate in a three-week emphasis this fall on “Tearing down the Walls” that separate us.

Is there another book on the horizon? Ryan states there are actually two possibilities. One entitled Crowds will address how to manage our priorities, through observing how Jesus managed the crowds in his life. Sounds like an interesting read! Another entitled Faith Breakthroughs may be in the works, as well.

Ryan has a wife, Lana, and three daughters, ages 17, 14, and 4, the youngest of which has been diagnosed with autism. Ryan’s wife blogs about their experience in raising such an extraordinary child at www.alongcamethebird.com. We asked what Pastor Rush likes to do in his spare time, when he’s not pastoring, not hosting a radio show, or not writing a book or a sermon. His answer? “I have no hobbies. It’s just about my family.” Sounds like Pastor Rush is practicing what he preaches, and in my experience (I’m a PK myself ), that’s the kind of man that takes the Jesus he preaches about in the pulpit, and invites Him into the context of his home. He’s a passionate pastor who experiences real Christianity, bridges gaps, and tears down walls, so that all who are seeking can see the One who’s seeking them.

Want to hear Ryan on the radio? Check out http://klgo.net/program-schedule/the-ryan-rush-show/ and tune in at The Word 99.3 and 98.5 KLGO from 4-6pm weekdays. Want to purchase Ryan’s new book, Walls? Read about it at http://www.tyndale.com/Walls/9781414337364 and look for it in stores in just a few weeks! Want to hear more of Ryan’s passion? Check out his website at http://www.ryanrush.com/. And finally, are you looking for a church home? Check out http://www.bbcfamily.com/ where “faith meets home.”

Marcy Lytle

Healing happens, and that's what the job of being a pastor is all about--having the privilege of seeing

that healing occur in the hearts of people.


What would you call a person who deserted their family, left them with bills to pay, and no income to support

them? What would you call someone who died unexpectedly, leaving their family in much the same position? Is there a difference? Life insurance has been called a special kind of Love Letter, because of the immediate tax free estate it creates that can be used to pay bills, replace income, provide for college, pay off a house, or provide financial security.

While I would agree with many popular financial experts claiming that term insurance is the best and cheapest way to provide an adequate death benefit for a specific period of time, insurance industry studies report that term insurance accounts for as little as 1% of all death benefits.1 This most likely means people either lapsed their term policies or lived beyond the term period. This month, let’s consider the merits of permanent cash value life insurance, but from a totally different perspective - as a tax-advantaged cash accumulation vehicle, instead of purely a death benefit.

Should you pay taxes now or later?As an example2, Mr. Jones deposits $2,000 a year for his child/grandchild beginning at age 0 for 22 years (total of $44,000), with an established mutual insurance company that currently guarantees a 4% return on its whole life policy. Dividends, while not guaranteed, have been paid every year for the past 97 years. This would create a current death benefit of approximately $155,000. Assuming premium payments would stop after 22 years, if left to accumulate until age 70 (any age could be used yielding different results), the policy would have a total accumulated value of approximately $4,000,000. The policy could then provide a tax free income (through withdrawals and policy loans) of $225,000 a year to age 85 (total tax free income of approximately $3,600,000). Assuming death at age 85, the policy would still pay a tax free death benefit of approximately $6,300,000.

To summarize:

$44,000 Paid In After Tax$3.6 Million Paid Out in Tax Free Income$6.3 Million Paid Out in Tax Free Death Benefits$9.9 Million Total Tax Free BenefitsIt is the opinion of this author that a properly structured life insurance contract, designed primarily for cash accumulation, could be considerably more productive than any tax qualified IRA, 401K, 529 Plan, etc. (especially when you consider the likelihood of higher future tax rates at the time of distribution) and it could also make for a wonderful multi-generational Love Letter.

From Here to EternityNow let’s look into God’s Word, the ultimate Love Letter, for some practical spiritual truth and wisdom. Dr. Bruce Wilkinson, in his book A Life God Rewards says, Everything you do today matters forever. Although your eternal destination is based on your belief/unbelief in Jesus Christ, how you spend eternity is based on your behavior while on earth. Believers and non-believers will be judged by Jesus Christ at events called the Bema and the Great White Throne (John 5:22, 2 Cor. 5:10, Rev. 20:11-15). The outcome will determine your degree of reward in Heaven or retribution in Hell (Matt. 11:21-22, 23:14). Dr. Wilkinson lists seven rewards one can receive in Heaven:

1) God will reward you for seeking Him through spiritual acts such as fasting and praying (Matt. 6:6, Heb. 11:6).2) God will reward you for submitting to your employer as a faithful steward (Matt. 24:45-47, Eph. 6:8, Col. 3:22-24).3) God will reward you for self-denial in His service (Matt. 16:24-27).4) God will reward you for serving those in need in His name (Mark 9:41).5) God will reward you for suffering for His name and reputation (Luke 6:22-23).6) God will reward you for sacrifices you make for Him (Luke 6:35). In fact, Jesus said that every person who sacrifices to follow Him

will be rewarded a hundredfold (Matt. 19:29).7) God will reward you for sharing of your time, talent and treasure to further His kingdom (Matt. 6:3-4, 1 Tim. 6:18-19).Have a question or want a little help writing that Love Letter? Give me a call, or drop me an email. I’d love to hear from you.

Barry A. TrippTransamerica Financial Advisors, Inc.

(512) [email protected]

www.wealth-and-wisdom.net

[1] http://en.Wikipedia.org/wiki/term_life_insurance[2] Example taken from Becoming Your Own Banker, 5th Edition, by R. Nelson Nash, pages 73-74. Investment Advisor Representative with securities and investment advisory services offered through Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor.

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This is the time of year for "food in a bowl!" Whether it's soup, stew, chili, or noodles, you can find food in a bowl just about anywhere in Austin. My favorites are the various Asian or Vietnamese noodle houses around town.

Eating Out, or Takeout

Eating In, Under $10

This is the time of year for "food in a bowl!" Whether it's soup, stew, chili, or noodles, you can find food in a bowl just about anywhere in Austin. My favorites are Jason's Deli, which has about ten selections each day, as well as the various Asian or Vietnamese noodle houses around town.

Weekend Fun

With cold, windy or dry conditions, this is the time of year for your favorite lip balm and lotion to find a permanent place in your purse, car and desk drawer!

On the Run

Love, love, love the sales right now. Spring and summer clothing are taking over, and winter items are marked down to clear inventory. It's still cold, so get great deals now, or buy for next winter.

At the Store

Now is the time to recommit yourself to a goal. Whether it's to read more, lose those five holiday pounds, spend more time with family and friends, or whatever you'd like to do, write it down. Post it on your desktop, bathroom mirror, or refrigerator, and get excited! Invite a friend to share his or her goal with you, and keep in touch about it throughout the year!

...and Even More!

The ultimate comfort food has to be chicken and dumplings! At HEB, you can buy Mary B's Open Kettle Dumplings in the frozen section, for about $2.50 and a whole chicken for about $5.00. Cook the chicken thoroughly and debone. Using a combination of water and chicken stock, fill a 5-quart pot about two-thirds full and heat completely with your cut up turkey pieces. While that's heating, sauté an onion, and a couple of stalks of celery, in some butter until softened. Add to the stock. Slowly add the dumplings to keep them from sticking together, and cook according to the directions on the back of the package.

Dear Dave,Why do you recommend paying off your debts from smallest to largest when doing the debt snowball?

Mike Dear Mike,This is a really good question! A lot of people wonder the very same thing when I bring up the subject of the debt snowball.

Many folks think paying off the debt with highest interest rate first is the best approach. This seems to make sense mathematically, but I realized a long time ago if those people could do math they wouldn’t be drowning in debt in the first place! Debt is not a mathematical problem, it’s a behavior problem. I’m convinced that personal finance is 80 percent behavior, and only 20 percent head knowledge.

The reason the debt snowball pays off debt from smallest to largest—even though it may be mathematically incorrect—is that modifying your behavior and inspiring your desire to get out of debt is more important than the math. Your probability of becoming wealthy has more to do with your behavior than your financial sophistication or academic pedigree. And besides, I’m a practical application kind of guy—not a theory guy. That’s why my way actually gets people out of debt when lots of other practices fail.

When you pay off a small debt it means you’ve experienced success, and that gives you hope. Then, you move on the next larger debt. When you pay that one off—and you’ve wiped out two debts—it really energizes you. At that point you start to believe in yourself and that you’re on the road to becoming debt-free!

— Dave

Dear Dave,We’ve got $1,000 in our starter emergency fund, and we’ve paid off the last of our debt. We’re renting, but now my wife really wants to buy a house. On top of this, she wants to go the route of 100 percent financing and argues that a mortgage payment wouldn’t cost any more than we’re paying in rent. She’s extremely upset because I’m against the idea. How can I explain to her that this is a bad plan?

Alan Dear Alan,It sounds to me like this girl has a bad case of house fever. I think she probably knows deep down this isn’t a good plan, but she’s found something she really likes and is mad because you’re not going along with the idea. When you buy a home with nothing down and no money in the bank, you’re inviting Murphy and his three cousins—Broke, Desperate and Stupid—to move in with you. The roof will start to leak, and your central unit will die before you’ve lived there six months. In other words, you’ll find yourselves right back in another mess just because you didn’t have the maturity and wisdom to wait until you had your fully funded emergency fund in place, plus a 20 percent down payment on that house!

Here’s another thing. The idea that you save money because your house payment is the same, or even less than your rent, is one of the biggest myths out there. It costs more to own a home, period; especially on a short-term, monthly basis. As a homeowner, you’re exposed to all kinds of things you never have to worry about as a renter.

We all have times when we get excited by something we want and do things we shouldn’t do. I’ve done it, and I’ll bet you have, too. But in situations like this, you’ve got to sit down and talk things out. I’m not sure how to get your wife to realize this or act more mature, but I do know that people who charge into things of this magnitude without thinking are the very ones who end up in my office for financial counseling or filing bankruptcy.

—Dave

Dear Dave,I have my own medical practice, but I’m in a lot of debt and the practice just doesn’t seem to be working out. I took out a large loan in the beginning, and I can’t seem to stay current on the payments no matter how hard I work. Do you think I should file bankruptcy?

John Dear John,You went to school to be a doctor, which is an admirable thing. But now you’re also a businessman, so you need how to run your interest profitably.

Chances are you’re not bankrupt. It sounds to me like you made the mistake of starting a new business without first having a realistic business plan in place. Talk to your lender, and let them know what your situation is like right now. They may be willing to work with you on a plan that would give you a little bit of breathing room.

You might also look into the possibility of hiring a business manager. This would require paying someone an additional salary, but at least you’d be assured that the business side of things is being run properly.

But don’t file bankruptcy, John. It’s a stressful and emotionally-damaging process. You’re doing what you love and what you were called to do. The trick is to free up the money that will allow you to continue doing this great work!

— Dave


Money Spend Life Well


She has the toughest job of them all. She runs the household, manages the family budget, makes sure everyone is where they

need to be, and carries the lion share of rearing the children…all before 9 AM. She is Mom. The most revered person in the family. And she gets paid more than….well, no one. Perhaps not one penny.

Sure, being a stay at home mom has its rewards but it is definitely a 24/7 labor of love. You rarely have time for yourself, let alone time to think about retirement. Yet, families that choose to have one spouse stay at home to rear the children need to build retirement assets for that spouse as well.

The Six Million Dollar Mom

Remember the mid-1970s show called The Six Million Dollar Man? If you are under the age of 40, you probably do not. I am dating myself here, but it was a show about a former astronaut, involved in an accident, who was put back together using bionic parts… for how much? About $6,000,000, but that is classified. That was definitely a lot of money in 1974. But not so much today, when you consider that the stay at home spouse may in fact be giving up as much as $6,000,000 in potential earnings over the course of their working life, accounting for raises and inflation.

I am not saying that stay at home moms should clean up their resume and start looking for work. No way. There is no way to put a price on the value of a mom staying at home to raise the children. However, we do need to examine the impact of lost earnings on things like retirement. If an individual spends 30 years outside the workforce, they will be missing out on opportunities to participate in their company’s 401(k) or other retirement plan, and social security. That means less income for mom and dad when they decide to retire.

Making Stay At Home Pay for Retirement

Fortunately, the IRS does not penalize the stay at home spouse when it comes to retirement. Consider the use of a Spousal IRA. The abbreviation IRA stands for Individual Retirement Arrangement, which is a form of retirement plan for individuals.

You do not have to be employed to contribute to an IRA. The IRS allows the compensation of the working spouse to fund a Traditional or Roth IRA depending on income level. As long as the working spouse has sufficient earned income to cover the contribution, spouses may contribute up to $5,000 annually to an IRA.

That eligible amount jumps to $6,000 a year if you are over the age of 50. Of course, each individual situation will vary and may impact the amount you can legally deduct on your tax returns.

Always consult your financial advisor or a tax professional if you have questions regarding your potential contribution limits and deductions.

See the Difference Saving Can Make

Take for example the family that decides to set up an IRA for mom at age 30 contributing $5,000/yr until age 50 and then $6,000/yr until age 65. In our example, we are going to assume a 9% return annually. At age 65, mom will have just over $1,200,000 for retirement. If dad has been contributing to the 401(k) during his working years, they will have a very comfortable retirement.

$5,000 a year probably sounds like it is pretty tough to do at first, so I encourage folks that want to save to start small. Saving even $25 to $50 a month can go a long way to building you a solid retirement. Have a $100 to sock away each month? You may have almost $300,000 at age 65 if you are now 30.

The key with any savings goal is to start now. I wish that I had been wiser with the money I had when I was younger. I would have had time and compounding interest on my side.

Show Mom Some Love

I am reminded of the description of the woman in Proverbs 31. “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies….Honor her for all that her hands have done.” Consider honoring the woman you love; demonstrating that you will provide for her financially all throughout life by establishing a Spousal IRA.

Now I realize that setting up an IRA for your wife may not be the most romantic thing to do for Valentine’s Day. But, there may not be better way to demonstrate that you care about her future than to take action and prepare for something such as her retirement years.

Have you decided to give your spouse an IRA for Valentine’s Day? Great! Just don’t forget to pick up some flowers and a box of chocolates too.

Mark Trice

Don't Forget About MomStay-at-home Moms Need Retirement Too

Spend Life Well Money


When you think of training with a personal trainer some thoughts may come to mind. “I don’t have time for

that.” “I can’t afford it.” “I’m just simply afraid of that!” Although these are normal fears, let’s look at reasons why you can and should consider hiring a personal trainer.

Do you find it hard to work out routinely on your own? If you are not currently working out, a personal trainer can help you get started. You can learn how to maximize your time as well as set reasonable goals and map out a simple schedule to fit your lifestyle. Simply having a consultation with a trainer can help you understand the reasons why you need to make exercise a part of your daily life, forever. If you have a specific injury, a trainer can find a program to help heal injuries and avoid any further problems. If you have a specific condition such as arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure or heart disease, a trainer can help you decrease the uncomfortable symptoms you may be experiencing, or even help you improve or resolve your condition and reduce or eliminate some medications. Maybe you find yourself bored or hitting a plateau and you can’t seem to lose those last few extra pounds. A trainer can help you put some variety in your workouts and bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to challenge both your body and your mind.

Working with a trainer will greatly increase your goal to optimal health and weight loss. The beauty of working out with a trainer is that you just show up and they tell you what to do. A trainer can motivate you to push past those self-imposed limits, encouraging you to lift heavier, go longer and challenge yourself more than you would on your own. Having a standing appointment provides you accountability, not only for that workout, but for the workouts you were told to do on your own during the week. Just knowing you are going to see your trainer each week should

make it much harder for you to skip your workouts.

There are several options for meeting with a trainer and you can find ways to fit it in your budget. Training a few times per week is optimal, but may be out of your price range. Meeting with your trainer once a week, then doing prescribed workouts the remaining days; is a very popular and successful way to train. The more economical but sometimes less effective way to train is to have a trainer write a workout program for you to do on your own, then meet with the trainer every 4-6 weeks to learn a new and different workout.

As you can see, having a personal trainer is very beneficial to living a life of optimal

health and can be fairly inexpensive. Just like anything else in your life, if you really want it, you can budget for it. And this is one budget item you know will be well worth it!

Check with your local gym for specials they may be running on personal training sessions. Usually the more sessions you buy the more you save. Depending on the expiration date of the sessions, this could really save you money. So, do some adjusting in your budget and let’s get training!

Lauren LacyFitness Coordinator

CHASCO Family YMCA

Personal TrainingHealth Matters:

You Health MattersDiet & NutritionHead to HeartThe Real Stuff

The Real Me

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Most of us set our New Year’s resolutions with weight loss as a top priority, since most Americans ‘grow’ an average of

seven pounds from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. Along with a good exercise program, proper eating habits need to be established. Maybe you’ve heard about the “Glycemic Index” or the “Low Glycemic Diet.” It is essentially part of the low-carbohydrate movement, focusing on the role of insulin and blood glucose management. We were all taught in the past to avoid foods high in fats, due to higher calories in fats. With the public awareness on eliminating fats; however, carbohydrate intake is often neglected. The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) has a high proportion of carbohydrates, i.e. sugar, bread, pasta, potatoes. Just take a look

at a sandwich or a slice of pizza and you’ll know what I mean. Excessive sugar intake translates into excessive energy that is not burned off, and goes into storage as fats in fat cells. For a lot of individuals, that means stubborn triglyceride and cholesterol levels even with a low-fat diet, exercise, and even drugs. Glycemic index (G.I.) is a number assigned to a particular carbohydrate food based on the time it takes to be absorbed and turned into blood sugar. Something with a high number indicates a rapid digestion and absorption, which results in a blood sugar spike. A food with a smaller number means a slower, steady absorption and increase in blood sugar. Rapid blood sugar increase is detrimental to health, causing the blood-sugar regulating hormone

insulin to be secreted in large amounts. Insulin controls entry of blood sugar into cells, and high amounts of insulin causes a more rapid drop in blood sugar. People eating foods with a high glycemic index often experience hypoglycemic (lack of blood sugar) headaches, and are jittery/shaky without food. Also, due to the drop in blood sugar level, the body is desperately seeking simple sugar to rapidly replenish the blood sugar, and we end up having sugar cravings. What’s worse is that cells eventually are insensitive to this insulin bombardment, and sugar cannot enter the cells effectively, resulting in high levels of sugar in the bloodstream called diabetes. Therefore, the glycemic index is not a diet; it is a guideline on selecting the foods that provide the glucose in a slow and gradual fashion, to ensure your health and stop cravings/overeating. The substance that raises blood sugar levels fastest is sugar itself. Some researchers use sugar as the baseline and assign it the number 100. Other guidelines use white bread and give it the number 100, so things like sugar can surpass 100. Of course, the goal is to choose the foods with a lower number. One example is potato. Using white bread as 100, baked potato has a whopping G.I. of 118 (almost 20% faster than white bread). In comparison, sweet potato has a G.I. of 70, a much smaller number even though it is sweeter. Another example is fruit. With the fiber content, most fruits have a smaller G.I., but some are fairly close to white bread. The worst one is banana, with 84. Plums, on the other hand, have the G.I. number of 34. Are you seeing the advantages of quantifying these foods? You can definitely use the glycemic index in the supermarket to pick the foods that are healthier for you, and ones that do not increase sugar cravings. With the “weight loss season” ongoing, it is important to engage in exercise, and make eating right a habit. The Glycemic Index lifestyle can help tremendously in the diet aspect. You can “Google” glycemic index and find a suitable list. If you have difficulty finding one, let me know and I can send one to you.

Dr. Trent PengChiropractor and Nutritionist

What is theGlycemic Index?

How It Can Aid in Weight Loss

Diet & Nutrition You


1 Corinthians 13 is the famous “love chapter” of the Bible. Dr. Oswald Sanders (1902 – 1992), missionary and author of over 40

books on the Christian life, in an article based on 1 Corinthians 13, recalls that many years ago he and his wife decided to read this chapter every day for a month. He says that after a week they were more than ever gripped by the beauty of the chapter. But after the second week, they were feeling increasingly uncomfortable. And by the end of the third week, Sanders was quite sure that it was not a very beautiful chapter because he would find himself during the day with unloving attitudes, and immediately this chapter would speak to him, convict him, and challenge his life on many counts. Sanders writes, “But, it is a beautiful passage. The qualities attributed here to love are a picture of the Lord Jesus. Everything said here is exactly true of him.” Sanders allowed the Holy Spirit to challenge him regarding the attributes of love that were demonstrated by Jesus that he often found lacking in his own life and actions. We, too, need to allow the Holy Spirit to challenge us, understanding that as we do, He transforms our lives. In verses 4-8 Paul lists many of the characteristics of love: Love is patient. Being patient with others means allowing them to make mistakes, putting up with their shortcomings and often their own lack of patience. Love is kind. Kindness is always looking for opportunities to help others. Kindness is often shown in practical acts of service and help.

Love does not envy. A characteristic of love is being content with what God has given us, regardless of status or possessions. Love does not boast. Love is not proud. Love always places others at a place of importance above oneself. Love is not rude. Everyone should be treated with dignity, respect, and courtesy. Harsh and insensitive talk can leave people hurt and wounded. Love is not self-seeking. Demonstrating love always places the concerns and interests of others above oneself.

Love is not easily angered. Love is often expressed when we forgive others and do not allow resentment and anger to control our thoughts and actions. Love keeps no record of wrongs. Just as we have been forgiven much by God, we are to forgive others. By keeping a record of the wrongs of others, we prevent the restoration of broken relationships. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in the truth. Loving others means we feel the brokenness of those who are hurting, even when the hurt is of their own making.

Love always protects. To protect someone in love means to avoid gossip and talk that can be hurtful. Protection may involve confronting sin, but it is always done in an attitude of healing. Love always trusts. When we love, we make a conscious choice to always believe the best in others. Words of criticism and suspicion block a right attitude of trust. Love always hopes. A loving person always believes that failure, mistakes, and sins can be forgiven and lives can be restored. Love always perseveres. Love never gives up. Life is full of hardships and difficulties. By viewing problems as opportunities for growth, love will always prevail. Love is something we do. Like many aspects of our lives where we are seeking change, we are responsible to take action. As you read

over these characteristics, it may be easy to feel condemned. Remember, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8). Ask God to “shine his flashlight” on the one or two love characteristics that he is wanting you to work on. You can then focus your energy on these areas of love. Another good practice is to read these verses making positive proclamations of who you are in Christ. Proclaim the truth that: “Through Christ Jesus, I am patient, I am kind, I do not envy, I do not boast, nor am I proud, I am not rude, I am not self-seeking, I am not easily angered, I keep no record of wrongs, I do not delight in evil but rejoice in truth; I always protect, trust, hope and persevere. I am not capable of exhibiting any of the characteristics of love apart from Christ Jesus, but as I allow his love to live and flow through me, I can do all things.” Go forth and take the next step to love others, just as Christ Jesus has loved you.

Al H. Jones, Ph.D.Head to Heart Restoration Ministry

www.headtoheart.org

Love Is... Head to HeartYou


Ladies, I just have to ask, “How is that New

Year’s thing working out for you?” Whether you did or did not read my article last

month, (www.AmyDillonLive.com - click “blog” and scroll through for January postings), you may not be feeling so new by now, or maybe you did not even feel new on January 1st. In the world in which we live, by February 1st it is possible for the “new” to already have worn off, and we are left with a lingering emotional condition, the same weight problem, or recurring marital issues. Take heart, there is a newness you can embrace today that will refresh you. It is being made new “in him” that makes all the difference in the world. We must be made new on the inside of our innermost being before our physical follows, before we can champion a marriage or overcome those things that have made their round on the resolutions list far too long. In order to get our new back, let’s consider a couple of scriptures. Surprisingly in the midst of Jeremiah’s lament, we find hope! Lamentations 3:22-23 assures us “…because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning;” This is an amazing verse! Every morning his compassion upon us and toward

us is made new. Every day we can begin fresh again. What hope that gives us in regards to whatever may come our way as we are learning to champion our marriage and learning how to overcome our mind, will, and emotions! We will not be consumed by whatever has stolen the new from our new year. In contrast to lamenting, the bible says joy comes in the morning and the joy of the Lord is our strength. Joy produces a feeling of newness to give us strength to carry on another day. Another interesting scripture to help us get back our new is Psalm 98:1. The beginning of this scripture says, “Sing to the Lord a new song.” We can change the tune of the song we have been singing over and over. Perhaps we can change the chorus of the song we reverted back to at the first sign of confrontation. Are you singing in a tone of defeat? Just maybe that prayer you have been praying so long needs to change, maybe you are believing for the wrong thing, or maybe God is working on your behalf, but your song is too stale to lead you to victory. Sing a new song that sounds something like this, “God I pray your will over my situation for I know you desire only good things for me,” “God have your way”, “God I take my hands off and hand it over to you.” Maybe

your new song is a song of praise unto God in the car, in the kitchen, in the shower, etc… instead of nagging and begging. You will be amazed at what happens when you just sing a new song to your Father.

As an added bonus, consider this final thought. Facing financial strangleholds, ailing marriages, and physical dis-ease can make you feel anything but new and refreshed. It is absolutely only through God’s word, and through prayer, that you can overcome the forces in your life that are set out to kill, steal, and destroy you and your marriage. Romans 12:2 instructs, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world” (Do not let the world steal your new.) In order to be transformed from that non-refreshed, stale state you must renew your mind daily!

Growing up, I thought I was destined to be some kind of “boss” in the scheme of things. I envisioned myself walking

around giving orders and having grateful people thank me for doing such a good job of leading. Then along came sobering growth very early in my life. I had a shiny gold bar on my Marine Corps uniform, and I was being called “SIR”! Next came two incredible little things called children—even more responsibility—and I could not remember taking a single class in school on what it takes to be a father. It soon was time to teach those kids—a role waiting on me that I knew nothing about. It was a tough role, anything but easy to get my arms around. It was a leadership role within the family. All these folks living at my house were looking for something called a manservant of all things. But what is that, and where does one go to learn this? Church? That was pretty much a place we attended in order to look good in the community. Bible study? That was the older crowd who were nowhere near as busy as I was. I had my own life, and besides—who has time for bible study? After all, by this time things were a little better in the piggy bank side of life and all the church needed was a check from me, or so my tiny brain reasoned.

Birthdays continued to pile up in my back pocket, and those little kids were no longer little. As a matter of fact, they somehow got ideas of their own and before I knew what hit me—they were bringing someone home to be introduced to Dad & Mom. Weddings followed and of course—guess what? “Little Ones” all over again. I could not conceive that nearly enough time had passed by for my kids to grow up and be on their own! I was counting on being a “Boss!” But being a servant is something else. This is the guy that makes sure everyone else in the family is taken care of before his own needs are met. He is the one who is called on to understand the rules so he can teach the right ones. And the only place to get the rules right is the Bible! Where was I when that lesson was taught? Learn from this, fellow men! Wake up! How is it that we men avoid our real role? Let’s get ourselves off that couch and join a bunch of ugly ole guys who love the Lord and are hungry for learning the Word. Let’s Do It!

Don Spann

A Tough Role

The New You: Is It Already Gone?The Real Stuff YouFor Women:

For Men:


And when the oceans rageI don’t have to be afraid

Because I know that you love meYour love never fails

Love that never fails? For most of my life, I never knew that existed. My parents never showed love and affection to each other,

nor to their kids. My mom always told me that love didn’t exist and that guys only wanted one thing, so to not believe anything they told me. I knew God loved me, but that was all. I KNEW it, but I never felt it. I never experienced it. Whenever I did something wrong, or failed in something, I thought God might not love me anymore. I was too bad for Him to love me. I did not know of the love that never fails.

Not too long ago, I spent a whole day with my nephew and niece. They can be the sweetest kids at times and then turn into the most annoying, spoiled kids in an instant! I love them very much, but I am glad I only had to spend one day with them. I told my sister I didn’t know how she did it. She told me they do get

on her nerves sometimes, but at the end of the day her love for them is what matters. No matter how mad they make her, she still loves them. She also told me that no matter how many times they fail her in their lifetime, she will always love them no matter what. Her love for them is what God feels for us, but greater. God is love. His love never fails.

Jesus crucified on the cross, taking our place, is what love is. He did not have to die, but he did so because of how much he loves us. He took our place. There is no greater love than that. One of my friends used to tell me how she always felt alone. She always had a boyfriend because that was the only way she didn’t feel so alone. She was trying to find love in all the wrong places. She didn’t know love was sitting outside her heart, waiting for her to open the door. The good thing is that she heard Love knock and she let Him in.

Have you ever wondered if love really exists? Have you looked for love in all the wrong places? Is your past filled with so much regret

and guilt that you think you are not worthy of anyone loving you? Most of us have passed through all of that. There is One who can give you unconditional love. No matter what you have done, he still loves you. His love never fails. This month when love becomes more tangible everywhere you go, remember that God loves you more than anyone will ever be capable of loving you. He paid the price for you, because YOU are worth it to Him. I know now of His love that never fails. I experience his unconditional, never failing love every day.

I hope you will look for love in the right place, and I know you will find it!

I know I still make mistakesBut you have new mercies for me everyday

Your love never fails

Maria Arreola

Love Never FailsThe Real MeYou

Heroic Media Brings Mercy Me & Rebecca St. James to Austin

Heroic Media is a faith-based non-profit that reduces the frequency of abortion by creating a Culture of Life through television, billboard and internet advertising that connects women in crisis with life-affirming resource centers. You have probably seen some of their billboards around town that boldly display the reality of women going through a crisis. Women are used instead of babies so that a woman who is going through a crisis can relate to the image. In addition to billboards, Heroic Media also advertises on radio, television and internet.

In January, MercyMe and Rebecca St. James held a benefit concert for Heroic Media at Shoreline Christian Center. Over 2,000 people showed up to offer their support.

For Students:


Sparkling Gems from the Greekby Rick Renner

Rick Renner writes the preface of his book, Sparkling Gems from the Greek, while looking out of his window at the Moscow Kremlin. Being a scholar in the Greek language, God has given him the ability to write simply and practically using 365 Greek word studies for every day of the year.

I love this devotional because God begins to reveal hidden jewels in His Word that open up a new understanding of His heart. Each day after reading practical applications to a particular study, a "Prayer for the day" and a "Confession for Today" are given. True-life issues are covered, causing the reader to pause and have an opportunity to change the way he thinks. Sound biblical teaching inspires you to keep reading, not stopping, after each day's discovery. Some of the daily devotions are, "You are never alone!", "Are you wearing your killer shoes?", "How to respond to a financial attack", and many more personal ideas and subjects. Truly a jewel among devotions, I highly recommend Rick Renner's book, Sparkling Gems from the Greek. You will be refreshed and encouraged each new day.

Ginny Hurley

A Song I Knew By Heartby Bret Lott

Bret Lott is the author of Jewel, an Oprah choice, and one of my favorite writers. His writing illuminates ordinary moments to the point that the divine shines

through. In this re-telling of the story of the biblical Ruth from Naomi’s perspective, Lott opens the window into a world of grief, bitterness, and the redeeming grace of family. The story is simple, the emotions raw, and the imagery powerful. This is a book that reminds me why I read fiction.

Deborah Begley

Redefining the Fall is made up of five followers of Jesus Christ. When they are not leading worship at their local churches,

Jason Reeder on Vocals, Jamey Pearson on Guitar, Joey Fino on Guitar & Vocals, Micah Johnson on the Bass, and Chris Jackson on Drums, come together and combine their passion for music and God, to join our generation in worship and service.

Based out of Wichita Falls, Texas, these guys have opened their hearts and lives to anyone and everyone that will listen to their testimonies. Responding to their calling, Redefining the Fall has taken the gospel to cities all over the U.S, and has made it their vision to help lead their generation to know the one true Savior, Jesus Christ. They have recently returned from Cornerstone Festival in Illinois, with a new passion for spreading the Gospel!

Pastor Quint Burks, from New Vision Ministries in Alvord, Texas says, “These guys blow me away every time I see them play. From the moment they started unloading equipment, they were asking ‘how they could serve.’ Their hearts and spirits are truly in loving the Lord and spreading the Gospel. I watched them as they not only carried in and set up their own equipment, but also assisted the band before them and the band after them, with getting set up and tearing

everything down. When these guys enter your place, you feel the presence of God all over them. The connection they have and the time they spend with the audience is overwhelming. There is a powerful anointing that is present when they play; you just lose yourself in the worship. They

have had people from age three to over age 50, head-banging in the sanctuary.” He further states, “Music is what drew me to my salvation, and I can tell you that every chord they play and every note they sing (or sometimes scream) is totally heart felt. They hold nothing back in their music

and in their testimonies. They reach right into the hearts of these youth and challenge them to live for Christ.”

Redefining the Fall has played outdoor concerts in the middle of summer, and indoor concerts to 20 to 25 people, and every time they bring their ministry with full sincerity. Walking the walk, building relationships, and spreading the Gospel - in a nutshell - that is what you get with Redefining the Fall. God has called them to a higher standard – a high level of sincerity and integrity that most of this world does not offer.

Marcy Lytle

For more information, visit www.redefiningthefall.com. You can check out tunes @ myspace.com/rtfrocks or reverbnation.com/redefiningthefall.

redef ining the Fall

The Back Pew

B.L.I.S.S.Believing Love Includes Spiritual Seasons

The institution of marriage has been compared to many things. Unfortunately, we tend to hear more negative terms than positive ones. Spouses have been called “the old ball and chain.” While others express

the relationship of marriage as being “tied down” too soon after “tying the knot.” H. Norman Wright authored a book entitled, Seasons of a Marriage. I see this title as a wonderful illustration for the covenant

of marriage. Some parts of the marital journey may be hot and spicy. Some sections may be cozy and comfortable. During other times, the couple may feel cold and detached. Then there are those moments

of indescribable euphoria often referred to as marital bliss. Just like our individual Christian growth comes with various seasons so will the union of marriage. If at some point you sense showers on the horizon, just

hang in there. Your season will come.

Ephesians 6:18 Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s

consecrated people). -Amplified Bible

Scottie Moore


QUOTES:Matthew 22:37–39Jesus 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. And the second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' (NKJV)

John 15:13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (NIV)

Shoreline South Grand Opening, Sunday, January 23rd. Two services will be available weekly for the South Austin Family at 9 & 11 am with full services for children & youth included. Pictured: Pastor's Rob & Laura Koke - Senior Pastors; Pastors Sam & Kelly Mata – Campus Pastors

Shoreline South Grand Opening

The Back Pew

austin faith and family- february 2011

Documents

austin faith family

central market locations

stage of life

faith stories

barry trippaustin faith

writerslee eddins

saleslee eddins

americaryan rush