News From Thailand

I spoke with Boonyong Bureenok on the phone last night and he shared some of the happenings in Thailand with me. Later, he sent me several photos, some of which I will post here. Please continue to join me in prayer for Brother Boone and his family, the orphanage, and the work of ministry in Thailand.

Praise Report

A few days ago I requested prayer for Reese Samuel Davis, My cousin, Ginger Meadows Davis' new baby. Although he remains in Children's hospital in CA, I am informed that he is doing much better. We praise the Lord for touching and watching over this baby, and request your continued prayer.

Ralph Reagan

We were very honored to have Pastor Ralph Reagan of Bread of Life Rescue Mission to minister to us at New Beginnings this morning. I had only met Ralph once before, but I had heard a great deal about him and how the Lord is using him in Crossville.

Brother Ralph preached a very inspiring message on standing up for what we believe even in difficult times. He stated that the enemy will use all kinds of temptations to sway us, but it is critical that we remain absolutely committed to the cause of Christ. He shared some of his life story, especially after he surrendered his life to the Lord.

After the service, I announced that Ralph had brought a supply of his book (just recently published). I'm not sure how many he brought, but the were all sold and he was kind enough to sign several (if not all) of them. Once I got home, I started reading the book and have now finished it. The book, Fallen, Felon, and finally Faith, is a powerful testimony of Ralph's life and the grace of our loving God! To purchase books contact: April Press BOL, P.O. Box 1514, Crossville, TN 38558

Prayer Request

My cousin, Ginger Meadows Davis, had a baby on Friday. His name is Reese Samuel Davis. I just learned that the baby is in a children's hospital in California in critical care. I'm not sure of all the details, but Uncle Jim is requesting that we please be in prayer for Reese.

Bread of Life Rescue Mission

New Beginnings had the privilege of serving a meal at Bread of Life Rescue Mission tonight! This was our first time to serve a hot meal, but certainly not the last we will be doing to support this tremendous ministry. In fact, we are scheduled to be back there on May 31. We also have a box at New Beginnings for receiving food donations for the Bread of Life food pantry.

I am pleased to announce, too, that Pastor Ralph Reagan, co-founder of Bread of Life Rescue Mission, will be with us this Sunday morning to share from the Word, and about BOL. Ralph has written a book, Fallen, Felon, and Finally Faith which has just been published. He will have some with him on Sunday and will be on hand to sign copies. The book is $10 and the net proceeds go to the mission building fund.

Please add Pastor Ralph and his wife Connie as well as the ministry of Bread of Life to your prayer list.

Just a Reminder....

Sunday is Mother's Day! As I have been preparing and thinking about how to best honor our mothers, I ran across a few quotes I thought I'd share with you here.

“The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new.”
- Rajneesh

“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother."
- Abraham Lincoln

“If I had a single flower for every time I think about you, I could walk forever in my garden.”
- Attributed to Claudia Ghandi

You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back.
-William D. Tammeus

Don't wait until Sunday to tell your mother you love her!

Praise Report

I went to Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt yesterday, along with Mother & Dad, Bill & Kim and family. I am pleased to report that Isaiah Samuel is doing much better. His bilyrubin has come down. He will probably be in the hospital for a day or so longer, but I know the Lord has touched him. We appreciate your prayers very much and request that you continue to pray for him and Jason and Jennifer.

Prayer Request

I just learned a little while ago that my new nephew, Isaiah Samuel Meadows, was admitted to Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt because his bilirubin is too high. They have started him on IV’s and placed him under the light, but the doctors have also already mentioned the possible need for a blood transfusion. Please join me in prayer for him.

National Day of Prayer

Just a reminder that tomorrow, May 1, is the National Day of Prayer. Please join us at the Cumberland County Courthouse tomorrow for a time of prayer for our nation. The theme this year is: Prayer! America's Shield & Strength.

A Brand New Meadows

I am happy to announce that I'm an uncle...again! The newest member of the Meadows family is...

Isaiah Samuel Meadows
Born at 6:10 AM on April 30th 2008
7 pounds 15 ounces
21 inches long

I would like to congratulate my brother Jason and his wife Jennifer on this new bundle of joy. I went to see him today, and he is adorable!!

Jason and Jennifer request that we pray for them as they transition into a 4 member family and as Josiah gets used to his new little brother.

Martin Luther

Someone recently shared this with me and I thought it good to post it here. This is by Martin Luther (1483-1546).

Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord,
With all your graces now outpoured
On each believer's mind and heart;
Your fervent love to them impart.
Lord, by the brightness of your Light
In holy faith your Church unite;
From ev'ry land and ev'ry tongue,
This to your praise, O Lord, Our God, be sung:
Alleluia! Alleluia!

Communion Sunday

Just a reminder that tomorrow is Communion Day at New Beginnings. We will be observing Holy Communion on the fourth Sunday of each month.

The Holy Communion (also referred to as the Lord's Supper and the Eucharist) is one of the ordinances given by Christ to the church. Because it is an ordinance (commanded by Christ, the Lord of the church) it is not optional. As surely as all believers are commanded to be baptized, likewise all believers are commanded to partake of the Lord's Supper. The Lord's Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby Christian believers, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, remember the death of the Redeemer with thanksgiving and anticipate His second coming.

Steve Weaver explains that 1 Corinthians 11:26-28 gives an overview of four important looks that one should take before, during and after taking the Lord's Supper:

* The first is a backward look to the cross. The Lord's Supper's primary message is about remembering the cross of Christ and what was accomplished there for our sins. Any celebration of the Lord's Supper with acknowledging the cause of its celebration causes one to become "guilty of the body and blood of the Lord" (v. 27). The purpose of the Lord's Supper is, as v. 26 states, to "shew the Lord's death till he come."
* Secondly, one must also take an inward look to examine one's own heart and motives (v. 28). Are you considering what this Supper represents? Are you right with God and your brother? These matters must be dealt with properly before receiving the Lord's Supper.
* Thirdly, a forward look is needed. We must look forward to the Second Coming of Christ. Every celebration of the Lord's Supper is an occasion to look forward to the day when we consummate this great feast with Jesus Christ Himself at the head of the table. "“For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord'’s death till he come"” (v. 26).
* Finally, a outward look to our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ is needed. Although the Lord's Supper is intensely personal, there is an important corporate element to this ordinance as well. Failure to care for the needs of our brothers and sisters results in the same condemnation received by the Corinthians. To come to the Lord's table without the attitude and action of humble, serving love for one another is a failure to properly "discern the Lord's body." As we remember how the physical body of Christ was broken for us, it is also important that we remember that we are a part of the spiritual body of Christ. Therefore, it matters whether or not we are in fellowship with one another when partaking of the Lord's Supper.

Heartfelt Thanks

I wish to express my sincere and heart-felt appreciation for all the wonderful cards and expressions of love for my birthday. I received several phone calls on Monday and tonight I was very surprised with a birthday party at the church. I can usually sniff surprises out, but you guys got me on this one! You guys are just awesome, and I thank the Lord for you all. I am humbled by your kindness...even you, Chelsie! (Ha! Ha!).

Death Notice

Yesterday Jerry Houston passed away. Jerry was the father of my sister-in-law, Brenda Meadows. The arrangements are as follows:

Visitation from 11 AM to 1 PM tomorrow (Saturday, April 18) at Hood Funeral Home. The funeral will follow the visitation.

Please join me in prayer for Brenda, her brother and the rest of the family.

Hosea a Portrait of God's Love

I received the following from Pastor Terry Barnwell.

Recently White Wing Publishing House commissioned Pastor Terry Barnwell at Arrowhead Church, to write some curriculum for them in the Spirit Matters Lessons. These lessons are now available for purchase. They are designed for Sunday School, Small Group Studies, or Wednesday Evening classes. These lessons are undated meaning they can be taught anytime, without following a set teaching schedule as the traditional Sunday School lessons in the past. The study I have written in this series is called; "Hosea a Portrait of God's Love". These lessons are centered on the biblical character Hosea and his unconditional love for a promiscuous wife. Each lesson is designed to challenge the student concerning how they impact the world around them with Christ Love. I have attempted to make the material cutting edge, fresh, and applicable to real life for the student.

Each lesson includes an introduction titled "Introductory Matters", with the study body including sessions titled; "Principle Matters", "Questions Matters”, and "Resolving Matters". The "Questions Matters" section is designed to allow the teacher to initiate discussion either at the conclusion of the lesson or at times within the lesson.

This inviting booklet has ten lessons on "Hosea a Portrait of God's Love" which includes;

Lesson One: Bearing the Name of Jesus - Salvation
Lesson Two: A Wife Named Gomer - Completeness
Lesson Three: Hosea's Love for His Wayward Wife - Covenant
Lesson Four: Silent, Unnoticed Love - Serving
Lesson Five: Tough Love, Wounding to Heal - Great Physician
Lesson Six: In the Pits - Suffering
Lesson Seven: I Am Wrong - Repentance
Lesson Eight: A Redemptive Payment - Mercy & Grace
Lesson Nine: Putting His Name on the Line - Reputation
Lesson Ten: A Home Coming - Restoration

Each book also includes a CD. The CD contains a variety of resources for use by the teacher. All CDs include student pages to be printed out for each student. A Printed copy of the student pages is also included in the book.

Our prayer is that you will freely and creatively adapt these courses to your teaching style and setting as God leads.

This inviting study can be purchased today for $24.99 plus shipping and handling by calling White Wing Publishing House at 1-800-221-5027 and ask for Darlene, she is the account specialist. Soon it should be online at;
www.whitewingbooks.com

Funeral of Gertrude Turner

I failed to post this on Saturday, but I wanted to express how beautiful the service for Sister Turner was.

Brother Tacket, Pastor of Abundant Life Church, and Bishop Jimmie Turner officiated. They both shared about the life of this precious lady and what a beautiful example she set for others. Two granddaughters also shared about their grandmother--Lisa Shaw, and Mary Kimbro. It was very touching to hear them share some of their personal experiences. As Lisa concluded her remarks, she read a poem her husband wrote about Sister Turner.

While the loss of a loved one is a sad occasion, I know it must have been comforting to the family to know that this precious lady lived in Christ and she died in Christ. And her life was a testimony to that fact all the way to the end!

Upcoming Events

The state director of Women's Ministries has announced that the "Tennessee Ladies Day “Early Bird” registration is extended to Monday, April 7th to allow promotion one more Sunday." For more information or for an application please visit the Women's Ministry website here. You may also pick up an application at New Beginnings. Ladies Day is scheduled for April 25-26, 2008 at Camp Hickory Hills in Dickson, TN.

Also, the Crab Orchard Church of God of Prophecy will be having a Youth Revival April 28-May 3, 2008. There will be various speakers as well as drama and singing groups. I'm sure you will be blessed by attending.

Funeral Arrangements

The funeral arrangements for Gertrude Turner are as follows:

The family will receive friends at Hood Funeral Home on Friday, April 4 from 6 P.M. to 9 P.M. The funeral service will be on Saturday, April 5 at 1 P.M.

Please continue to pray for this family.

Gertrude Turner

I am saddened to share with you the death of Sister Gertrude Turner. Sister Turner served the Lord for many years. I am thankful that I had the privilege of knowing this precious lady. She lived an exemplary life demonstrating the love of God.

I will post funeral arrangements as soon as I know them. Please join me in praying for the family.

Also the Presiding Bishop of Tennessee announced today that Deacon Frank Howard (father of our General Overseer) passed away. You can find out more by clicking here.

EASTER

We had a wonderful Easter service on Sunday with 31 in attendance. Paul Netherton opened the service with a warm welcome and a few words.
Here are a few more photos taken after the service.

Prayer Request

I was informed this morning that my nephew, Josiah, has a temperature of 103, and Jennifer is taking him to the doctor today. She has not been feeling well, either, so she has an appointment, as well. Please keep both of these in your prayers.

Pastor Ken Dyer

It was a joy to have Pastor Ken Dyer from Harvest Christian Fellowship as our special guest yesterday. Pastor Dyer preached an awesome message entitled, “Are You Ready for Action?” His text was from Acts 10:34-44 with emphasis on verse 38.

“Then Jesus arrived from Nazareth, anointed by God with the Holy Spirit, ready for action. He went through the country helping people and healing everyone who was beaten down by the Devil. He was able to do all this because God was with him” (Acts 10:38 MSG).

He stated that there are two things that give legitimacy to our existence as a church: 1) The fact that God’s presence is here, and 2) that we are making a positive impact in our community. These two go hand in hand.

We were challenged to bombard heaven with prayer and to bombard our community with the love, grace, and power of our Lord Jesus Christ. It’s time to make a difference.

Reminder

This Sunday, March 9, Daylight Saving Time begins. This is the time of year when we “spring forward” one hour. In the U.S., DST begins at 2 a.m., so it’s a good idea to move your clock forward one hour before you go to bed.

Also, Pastor Ken Dyer, of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Knoxville, will be our guest minister on Sunday morning. Pastor Dyer is the President of Harvest Restoration Outreach Center Ministries, Inc., and is also the Senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship Church. HCF is a spiritual arm of Harvest ROC Ministries.

Pastor Dyer is a native of Knoxville, TN. and is a graduate of the old South High School in South Knoxville. He is also a graduate of Johnson Bible College where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ministry and Leadership. Later, he received his Master of Theology and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling from Life Christian University, Knoxville Campus.

A Wonderful Worship Service

Yesterday was a wonderful time for New Beginnings. We had 25 in attendance with 3 new people.

Lisa Shaw opened the service with the Word, and our newly formed praise team led the congregation in an enthusiastic time of praise to our Lord.



I preached on the subject Overcoming Spiritual Limits, and we had an awesome time of prayer and praise. It was a great day, indeed!

New Life

NEW CREATION

London businessman Lindsay Clegg told the story of a warehouse property he was selling. The building had been empty for months and needed repairs. Vandals had damaged the doors, smashed the windows, and strewn trash around the interior.

As he showed a prospective buyer the property, Clegg took pains to say that he would replace the broken windows, bring in a crew to correct any structural damage, and clean out the garbage.

"Forget about the repairs," the buyer said. "When I buy this place, I'm going to build something completely different. I don't want the building; I want the site."

Compared with the renovation God has in mind, our efforts to improve our own lives are as trivial as sweeping a warehouse slated for the wrecking ball. When we become God's, the old life is over (2 Cor. 5:17). He makes all things new. All he wants is the site and the permission to build.

Ian L. Wilson.

The photo is from http://www.heartlight.org/cgi/heartgallery.cgi
The illustration is from http://www.higherpraise.com/illustrations/new_creation.htm

Men's Ministry Breakfast

Just a reminder that our Men's Ministry is having a Men's Breakfast tomorrow morning at 8:30 A.M. at Ryans. We are looking forward to a good time of fellowship.

Prayer for Brother Varlack

I received the following e-mail from Glynis last night.

"Please be in prayer for my dad, Adrian Varlack, Sr. He's been sick for 3 weeks and is being advised to go to the emergency room with swelling in his legs that medicine isn't helping. He has not been this sick as long as I can remember. Please also remember my mom, Janice. Please please pray! Thank you! ~G~"

I spoke with her this morning and she said, she talked to Brother Varlack last night and he has fluid around his heart. "Just pray for his overall healing as he has several issues right now and pray for wisdom for him, mom and the doctors. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Love you. ~G~"

Brother Varlack is a powerful and anointed man of God! Please join me in prayer for his healing.

Prayer Requests

Here are a few prayer requests.

Gertrude Turner is still in the hospital and is not doing well at all. Sister Turner is 96 years old and has given her life in service to our Lord. She is the mother of Bishop Jimmie Turner and the grandmother of Lisa Shaw and Tina Blaylock.

Audra Spurlin is still in need of our prayers. She is back home now, but still recovering.

Mary Waldo broke her foot yesterday and requests our prayers.

Dan and Marcia Juday are both sick and request our prayers.

Also, Bishop McKinley has posted a request for John Payne on his blog. You can read it here.

Please join me in prayer for each of these! Our God is an AWESOME God!!

Praise Report

We are thankful to the Lord for all He is doing at New Beginnings! Sunday morning we had a very exciting worship service and we had 4 new people. I preached that we need to stop limiting the power of God in us. God wants to do great and wondrous things in and through His people. He wants to give hope to the hopeless. He wants to strengthen the weak. He wants to restore the broken heart. He wants to heal the sick. God wants to shower His people with every good thing (Psalm 84:11), but we must have faith and trust Him. After the message, several people made their way to the altar for prayer.

Happy Valentines Day

Twice As Sweet
On Valentines Day, we show our love;
We express our deep affections.
Those who are important to us
Get cards and sweet confections.

But Christian love is not just for
The ones we hold most dear;
Jesus said "love everyone;"
He made that very clear.

For Christians, it is every day
We should care and love and serve
Everyone we meet in life,
Whether they do or don’t deserve.

Let’s follow Jesus’ good command
To love everyone we meet.
Valentine’s Day every day
Will make life twice as sweet.

By Joanna Fuchs

For other poems by Joanna Fuchs, please click here.

Prayer Requests

Our General Overseer, Bishop Randall Howard, has posted a report on the violence in Kenya. You can read the report here. Please join me in prayer for our brothers and sisters who are suffering in this region of the world.


Also, please continue to pray for Gertie Turner who is still in the hospital.

Prayer Request

Granny Turner, Lisa and Tina's grandmother, was admitted into CMC yesterday. She is not doing well. Mother and I went by to visit her yesterday and had prayer with her. She said she is probably sicker than she's ever been, and she is in a lot of pain. This lady is well into her 90's and she has seen a lot in her lifetime. She has also been a faithful Christian for many years.

Please join me in prayer for her that the Lord will give her comfort.

Harvest Food Pantry

I received the following e-mail this afternoon. I'm posting it here as a courtesy to Sister Sharon.

_________________________________________________
As most of you know I have been actively involved in Harvest Food Pantry (a ministry of Harvest Christian Fellowship Church, 2505 Washington Pike, Knoxville, TN 37917) since the summer of 1998 when we first opened our doors. We went from serving 7 families on that first day in July to around 150 families each time the doors open now.

That's approximately 525 people who will benefit from the food distributed each time we are open.

God has blessed this ministry beyond words with our small congregation solely
supporting it, with the exception of some occasional contributions and donations.
In addition to providing for us, God truly helps us offer those that come,
"Bread for their Body, as well as Bread for their Soul" through His Word!

As we open our doors this coming Friday for the first time in 2008 we continue to face some challenges that have arisen in the past few years, as quality food is increasingly more difficult to find. This is one of the most common problems associated with poverty and trying to fill the needs of the hungry. Trying to obtain food that will nourish them, instead of junk food (which is always readily available) is a difficulty we face on a continual basis.

In effort to help positively impact the people who come to us in need without asking others for financial support, I am simply asking everyone that I know who belongs to a Church, a Sunday School Class, a Community Club, works in an office, are Local Business owners,
or maybe just attend a Class that's looking for a Missions (type) Project to help support this ministry in this very simple way:

Your Group would Choose 1 Item such as, Peanut butter, or Cereal, or Oatmeal, or Spaghetti, or Flour, etc., (you get the idea). Then have your group collect ONLY that item on a continual basis throughout each month of the year.

At the end of each month, I will come and pick up whatever you collected.
If you have a local business, we can bring a container where you could collect donations of that item to help support the Hungry. It takes about 150 of any ONE ITEM to fill one set of grocery bags for distribution. If you collected 150 boxes of Cereal, there would be enough for every family to receive one in their bag for that week.

This would bless this ministry beyond words, it would certainly be a blessing to those who receive food from Harvest Food Pantry and of course you would be blessed in your giving.

I will make a list of Donors to be placed in each bag that is distributed, unless you prefer to remain anonymous.

Not including any other expenses, it costs approximately $650 a month to purchase enough food from Second Harvest Food Bank to feed 300 families (approximately 1,050 people). So, if your class, business, school, or other would rather take an offering and donate funds, you could be responsible for feeding over 1,000 people easily!
What a tremendous and rewarding feeling it is to know that you are impacting the mission field that exists right in your own backyard!

Also, if anyone is qualified to teach a Parenting Class or Budgeting Class and would like to donate a couple of hours of time, we would love to implement that in our ministry! If you have any area of expertise that you feel you could donate, or maybe you work in the Food Industry and have any "Day Old" items that could be donated, that too would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to read this.
I hope you will pray about helping us, help those who come to us with desperate needs!

You can contact me via e-mail: Sharon6tn@aol.com or on my cell phone: 865- 705-2559

With Sincere Gratitude,

Sharon Aruta
Harvest Food Pantry Director
Harvest ROC Ministries
865-637-1295 church office

The Favor of God

We've been gathering people for this church we call New Beginnings for 6 months and it is absolutely amazing what God is doing.

Yes, there have been times when I wondered how this was all going to work out, but then the Lord would remind me that this is His doing, not mine.

It is sometimes difficult to be starting a church in an area that already has so many churches (and several of them COGOP). The enemy has tried to discourage us by directing criticism our way, but we remain focused on our mission. Nehemiah, too, had his critics and those who opposed what he was doing, but he walked in the favor of God.

We believe we have heard from God, and we have stepped out in faith. We have no desire to compete with what God is doing in other churches. We simply want to join in the harvest and win the lost for Christ and His kingdom!

The only way I know how to explain what’s happening at New Beginnings is that for some reason the timing seems right and God seems to pouring out His favor on us.

Here's what's been happening...

1. From August to January we were meeting in a small chapel (the Sam & Zella Lawsom Memorial Chapel) free of charge.

2. In December the Lord suddenly opened a door for us to move into a much larger building in Crossville in an excellent location, and the rent is VERY low. We had our first service in the new building yesterday.

3. The Lord has been speaking to our people, and we have received pledges that will more than cover the rent of this facility.

4. Since the very beginning (in August), Harvest Christian Fellowship has been partnering with us in prayer and financial support.

5. We have received financial support for youth & children’s ministries from not only people who attend New Beginnings, but people who are interested in what we are doing.

6. Recently we received a substantial donation for a multimedia system and other needed items.

7. Yesterday a lady (from another denomination) stopped by after church to let me know that she has been telling people about our church and is excited about what God is doing.

It seems very clear to me that God's favor is upon us, and we are deeply thankful for His favor and blessing!

MyCOGOP Space

This morning I discovered that there is a Christian alternative to popular online communities such as myspace.com, youtube.com, facebook.com and many others. MYCOGOP SPACE is a One-Stop online community for the Church of God of Prophecy world wide, a place where COGOP members and friends can come and share their, thoughts, ideas, testimonies and more ...
You can check it out here.

God Leads Us Along

Today I found a little song sheet (printed in 1962) that belonged to my maternal grandmother, Mildred (Dyer) Greer. One of the songs printed was of particular interest to me. I haven't heard it in a very long time, so I just thought I’d share it with you here. According to Timeless Truths website, it is in the public domain.

GOD LEADS US ALONG
George A. Young (1903)

In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water’s cool flow bathes the weary one’s feet,
God leads His dear children along.

Refrain:
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.

Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.

Though sorrows befall us and evils oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.

Away from the mire, and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity’s day,
God leads His dear children along.

Women's Ministry

Just a reminder, our women’s ministry will begin a bible study tonight at 6:30 in Roy & Faye’s home. The curriculum is A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place, by Beth Moore. This is an eleven (11) week course and the classes will be approximately two (2) hours in length.

Come! Study God’s Word! Interact with other women! Be challenged to prepare your heart, like the holy of holies, to become a home for His love and glory—a dwelling place for the Most High God.

Just a Reminder

• January 27—Plateau Region Leadership Meeting (sponsored by the State office of the Church of God of Prophecy in Tennessee) at the Lawrence Chapel Church starting at 6:00 p.m.

• January 28—The Women’s Ministry bible study will begins in Roy & Faye’s home. The curriculum is “A Woman’s Heart: God’s Dwelling Place,” by Beth Moore.

Thoughts for today

Excitement is mounting as we prepare for a new phase of ministry in the life of New Beginnings. We were planning to meet at the building on 4th Street this evening for cleaning, etc; however, due to the fact that we couldn’t get the gas turned on by tonight, we will need to re-schedule. We will be meeting tonight on Mawila Ridge Road.

It is important to remember that it is God Who has called us together to join Him in this work, and His plan is continually unfolding. The heart of any ministry we engage in must always come from the heart of God! Our focus should not be on what we can do for people and how we can help and encourage them, but rather on how we can join God in what He has already done and is doing for them now!

In his Foreword to the book, Outreach Teams That Win: GROW, W. A. Criswell says: “Up and down every street in every city are those who are lost, families and friends and neighbors and acquaintances and fellow citizens in the communities where we ourselves are rearing our children and building our families. God Himself knew of our desperate need insomuch that He sent His only begotten Son to teach us the way of life, to die for our sins according to the Scripture, and to go before us in the evangelization of our families, of our communities, of our cities and nation, and of our whole world.”

We recognized long ago that the ministry God was calling us into would force us to leave our comfort zones. For most of us this is new territory, and it can be a little unsettling; however, our confidence is not in ourselves, but rather in God Who has called us! Remember,

“God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

There is much work to be done, and there is a work for everyone. I am excited about the future and I pray the Lord will bless you and strengthen you as you continue to submit your life to His purpose.

Amir Tsarfati

Several people from New Beginnings made our way to Knoxville last night to attend a special service at Harvest Christian Fellowship where Amir Tsarfati was ministering. There was a pretty full house with people traveling from as far as Florida.

Amir was born and raised in and around Jerusalem, Israel. He became a born again Christian while a teenager after watching the Jesus film.

Amir is a Captain in the Israeli Army Reserve, he was the Vice Governor of Jericho, he is part of the negotiating team with the Palestinians, and, a tour guide in Israel. He also speaks four languages fluently, and is an International speaker on terrorism.

It was exciting to hear this man's perspective on some of the prophecies of the Old Testament relating to Israel and the end times. You can find more information about his ministry at his website, Behold Israel.

Another new beginning for New Beginnings

New Beginnings is preparing for a change in the location of our worship services. Since August '07 we have been meeting at the Sam & Zella Lawson Memorial Chapel on Mawila Ridge Road (pictured below).



Recently we were able to rent a much larger building in Crossville. As of this writing, we are planning to have our first worship service in the new location on the first Sunday in February.

The new location is within a couple blocks of three schools, a recreation park, and several youth "hang outs." I have attached a map to our new location. The address is 495 4th St., near the corner of 4th St. and Miller Ave., and across from Garrison Park.



We are deeply thankful to God for Mr. Willis Lawson who has generously granted us the use of the chapel. He has done more than we could have expected in making us to feel welcome and comfortable. We pray the Lord will continue to bless Willis abundantly for his humility and generous heart!

Visit to the Sparta Church

Sister Lisa Shaw, from New Beginnings, ministered at our church in Sparta this evening, so my parents and I drove over both to support her and our brothers and sisters in Sparta. The service was very good, and Lisa shared a powerful and encouraging Word from the Lord!

We very much appreciate Sister Verna Seager, the pastor of the church at Sparta, and her husband for the very warm welcome they extended to us. It was good, too, to see Jimmie LaFever again.

After the service, the church had a birthday cake and refreshments to honor Sister Seager's birthday. It is such a blessing when a church expresses its appreciation for their pastor.

While we were visiting and eating cake and drinking coffee, one of the ladies from the church began having chest pain. She was finally taken to the hospital. I cannot remember her name, but please join me in prayer for her.

Prayer Request

I received the following e-mail from Pastor Ken Dyer of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Knoxville:

Please be in prayer for the family of Margaret Solomon [of Knoxville]. Margaret passed away on Friday evening around 5:30 PM after a very long struggle with illnesses. The family would appreciate your prayers.

Margaret was a long time attendee of HCF until she became ill. Also, she was most instrumental in the beginning of Harvest Food Pantry and served as the coordinator for several years.

The final arrangements are being made and as soon as I know them, I will send out the details.

Ken Dyer
Pastor
Harvest Christian Fellowship

Please join me in prayer for this family!

Sad News

I am very sorry to report that I received word from Brother Boone today informing me that Mill, the young man I requested prayer for on Monday, passed away yesterday morning.

Over the years I have made several trips to Thailand and became acquainted with this family. Sam, Mill's brother, worked in the orphanage until he got married. I believe he is now pastoring one of our churches there. Just a couple years ago, another of his brothers died of drowning.

Please join me in prayer for the comfort of the Holy Spirit in this family.

Happy Anniversary

I failed to post that yesterday was Jay & Jennifer's wedding anniversary. We thank the Lord for them and pray His continued blessing in their marriage!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JAY & JENNIFER

It is no secret

The other day the tune to an old song came to my mind and I began humming it. It seemed to stay with me all day. I remembered some of the words, but had to google for the rest of them. I discovered an interesting history to the song, It Is No Secret What God Can Do. Here are the lyrics.

The chimes of time ring out the news; another day is through.
Someone slipped and fell.
Was that someone you?
You may have longed for added strength, your courage to renew.
Do not be disheartened, for I bring hope to you.

(Refrain)
IT IS NO SECRET what God can do.
What He's done for others, He'll do for you.
With arms wide open,
He'll pardon you.
IT IS NO SECRET what God can do.

There is no night, for in His light you'll never walk alone.
Always feel at home wherever you may roam.
There is no power can conquer you, while God is on your side.
Just take Him at his promise.
Don't run away and hide.
(Refrain)

You can find the history of the song here.

Urgent Request from Thailand

This morning I received an urgent prayer request from my friend, Boonyong Bureenok in Thailand. I am posting a portion of his e-mail here so you can join me in prayer for this very special and urgent request. I believe the young man Boone mentions in his e-mail is only about 16 years old.

Chip,

Happy new year to you all!

I have an urgent request! Mill, Sam's brother, one of my nephews callapsed while on his way to school. He is at the hospital, ICU now.

Sam called me again saying that doctor does not expect him to live long, only 24 hours.

Chip, we believe in the Lord of miracle, don't we? Please pray!

God bless you, my friend.
Boone
Korat, Thailand

Happy New Year

Wishing you all a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Pray for Pakistan

Brother McKinley posted an e-mail from our overseer in Pakistan on his blog today. With the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto yesterday, chaos spread across the country. According to the Overseer of Pakistan, "Some people say this has been done by the Christian countries and their people."

Please join me in prayer for the safety of Christians in Pakistan as they continue to minister in troubled times.

A New Blessing for New Beginnings

God is so amazing! Since August, Willis Lawson has graciously allowed us to use the Sam & Zella Lawson Memorial Chapel for our weekly worship services. It is a small building and had no air or heat. For the past several weeks we have been using a small gas heater, but it didn’t heat all that well.

A few days ago, Willis told me that he is going to have a heat/air unit installed. Work began yesterday and should be completed today!

We are so thankful for Willis. Had it not been for him, we may still be meeting in homes. While we do not want to get too comfortable where we are, neither do we want to fail to recognize the blessing of the Lord! To God be the glory!

We appreciate you very much, Willis, and pray God's richest blessings on you!

Christmas with Family

Yesterday our family got together to celebrate Christmas at my parents home. All my brothers, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews where there, and we had a wonderful time together. The Lord has blessed me to be in a very loving and caring family, and I am thankful for my parents and my three brothers and their families.

Here are a couple of pics from our time together yesterday.

Merry Christmas

I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas! I pray you will experience the joy of our Lord and Savior as you celebrate with family and friends today!

A few pics

Prayer Request

I received word today of another death via automobile accident in the Morgan County area. The victim, Eric Phillips, was the cousin to Savannah Human, whose husband was tragically killed in an automobile accident in October. Please join me in prayer for the Phillips family.

Christmas Party

We will be having a special Christmas party for our children on Wednesday, December 19. Accordingly, we will not be having services at the church on that night. The children's party will be in the home of Roy and Faye and will begin at 7 PM.

Special Thanks

New Beginnings would like to express our deep appreciation to Pastor Ken Dyer and Harvest Christian Fellowship in Knoxville for their prayers and support of our ministry here in Crossville.


Harvest Christian Fellowship is a loving, caring congregation that delights in sharing the love of our Lord and demonstrating the joy of a life with Christ. If you live in Knoxville or are just passing through, we encourage you to visit with them--you won't regret it! You can visit their website here.

A few pics from our Christmas Dinner

Change of plans

Due to some unforeseen obstacles, New Beginnings has had to cancel our Christmas Banquet scheduled for December 16. Instead, we will have a Christmas Dinner at Roy & Fayes on Monday, December 10.

Christmas Spirit

"Until one feels the spirit of Christmas,
there is no Christmas.
All else is outward display-
so much tinsel and decorations.
For it isn't the holly,
it isn't the snow.
It isn't the tree
not the firelight's glow.
It's the warmth that comes
to the hearts of men
when the Christmas spirit
returns again."
-- Anonymous

God's call requires commitment

“One of our country’s most beloved Presidents was Abraham Lincoln. He had the great misfortune of being at the helm of our nation during one of it’s most troubled times. The once united States had split in two, and the armies of the North and South were waging an incessant war that claimed the lives of more men than have died in any war since.

“Lincoln felt the tragedy of this war more than anyone could have guessed. He mourned the deaths of soldiers and spent long periods visiting the sick and wounded in the Union hospitals. The constant shedding of blood was sometimes almost more than he could bear. Then, in the midst of the war, his own son died and the President was literally brought to his knees.

“In the middle of the week, Lincoln did what he often did during those days, he found refuge at a Presbyterian church in Washington, D.C. He went with an aide, sat with his stovepipe hat in his lap, and tried hard not to interrupt the meeting by sitting off to the side, near the preacher’s study.

“The minister opened the Scriptures and taught from God’s Word. And when he finished, the president stood quietly, straightened his coat, took his hat in hand and began to leave.

His aide stopped him and said, ‘What did you think of the sermon, Mr. President?’
He said, ‘I thought the sermon was carefully thought through, eloquently delivered.’
The aide said, ‘You thought it was a great sermon?’

“Lincoln replied, ‘No I thought he failed… he did not ask of us something great.’”

Even in the midst of such turmoil in his life, President Lincoln knew that when one listens to God he should expect that the Lord will call him to something great.

I believe that God is, indeed, calling us to something great. I believe God wants to use New Beginnings to help make a difference in the lives of people on the Cumberland Plateau. I also know, however, that such a call requires something on our part as well!

Someone said, “You must get involved to have an impact. No one is impressed with the won-lost record of the referee.”

Jesus said it this way, “…If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

Announcements

THANKSGIVING--We will have a special Thanksgiving Service this Wednesday (11/21) at 7PM. Please come prepared to give thanks to the Lord and share at least one thing for which you are especially thankful this year.

CHRISTMAS--New Beginnings' first Christmas Banquet will be held on Sunday evening, December 16, at Cumberland Mountain State Park. More information will be forthcoming, but please mark your calendar for this event.

What do people see?

Of 18 to 30 year olds in this country who have quit church, a whopping 26% say their reason for leaving was that the church is simply too judgmental, this according to a LifeWay Research report printed in Leadership Journal (Fall 2007).

It would be very easy for churches to assume that this generation simply doesn’t want to hear the truth, but the fact is that they do want to hear the truth but they also need to see some realities of true Christianity!

In reading from the gospel according to John, something jumped out at me recently. Jesus had returned to Bethany six days before the Passover and He had dinner with Lazarus, Mary and Martha. His disciples were apparently there too, but then John records this:

“Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead” (John 12:9).

As I pondered this passage it occurred to me that these people of the Jews who came to see Lazarus were needing to verify that this Jesus was truly who He was declared to be. They needed to see that Lazarus was, in fact, risen from the dead. They needed to see that there was, in fact, a change! Indeed, it was because they saw Lazarus alive again that many of them believed on Jesus (John 12:11).

It is a theological truth that sin separates us from God. Our sin is an offense to Him and prohibits us from enjoying fellowship with Him. It was Adam’s sin in the Garden of Eden that broke the perfect fellowship between him and God. That same sin, because it is so repulsive to Holy God, resulted in judgment.

“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2).

This does not, however, diminish God’s love for us! The Scripture is very clear on this subject. Paul said, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, emphasis mine). John attested to this when he wrote, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).

Could it be that one of the reasons so many people have decided that they don’t need church is because they see so few examples of true change in the lives of those who call themselves disciples of Christ? Could it be that we Christians are sometimes too judgmental and legalistic—harshly sharing truths of Scripture without the grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ?

I am convinced that the key to evangelism today is not so much in the words we say, but in the authentic love we share!

Appreciation Day

A Minister of Music/Worship Leader is arguably one of the most important ministry positions in a local church. This minister helps to lead the congregation in preparing their hearts, through worship, to hear and receive the preached Word.

At New Beginnings, we are privileged to have Bill Meadows who is an anointed Minister of Music/Worship Leader. When we were much younger, Bill traveled some with me when I was ministering in Wisconsin, Colorado and Wyoming. He has always been sensitive to the leading of the Spirit. His style is more contemporary, but he does not dismiss the value of some of the time honored traditional Christian hymns. He is up-beat and lively as he leads the congregation into spirited and heart-felt worship.

Tomorrow at New Beginnings we will give special recognition to our Minister of Music and express our deep and heart-felt appreciation to him for his commitment to the ministry into which the Lord has called him.

Bill, you and your family are a tremendous blessing to us and we thank God for you!

Thank You

I would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to everyone for your prayers for and expressions of kindness to the Human family this week. Sonbright Christian Center did such an awesome job of preparing food for the family after the graveside service, and it was wonderful--as usual! SCC has also opened up a portion of the property there for Brent to be buried.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal." ~From a headstone in Ireland

The photograph at the top is from the last time I saw Brent. It was on the day of his daughter's birth--September 20, 2007. This is me, Stephen Eli, and Brent.

What a Friend

I just returned home from Sunbright following the funeral services for Brent Human. I am absolutely amazed at the number of lives Brent touched in his short few years on this earth. By my estimation there were more than 1,000 people who filed through to pay their last respects to Brent and to share condolences with the family. At one point in time they were entering through the basement and filing up and down the room like a maze then going upstairs and wrapping around the outer wall of the building. This went on from about 6 PM to about 8:15. The church was also filled with floral arrangements. The platform, at each end of the coffin, and even into the foyer--more flowers than I think I have ever seen in one location.

When the funeral service began at approximately 8:45, the sanctuary was filled and people standing.

Brent had a tremendous love for life and for his family. All who knew him knew he had a heart for everyone he met, and he had a smile for everyone who crossed his path. The words of Soloman are surely true, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother"(Proverbs 18:24).

Tomorrow Brent will be laid to rest at Sonbright Christian Center at 12 Noon. Please continue to remember this family in your prayers.

Funeral Arrangements for Brent Human

I have received word that the arrangements for Brent Human are as follows:

The family will receive friends tomorrow evening (November 7, 2007) from 5-8 PM Eastern Time at Sonbright Christian Center and the funeral will commence at 8. The church is located at 7211 Morgan County Highway in Sunbright, TN.

Since the family has asked that I preach the funeral, there will be no service at New Beginnings tomorrow night.

The Death of a Friend

My heart has been very sad today as I learned of the tragic death of my friend, Brent Human. I have known Brent since around 1999 when I went to Sunbright as youth pastor. Brent was quite the prankster back then.

When I heard the news, I drove to the Harriman hospital where I was told the family was gathering as they awaited the arrival of the body following the fatal accident. I visited with them for a couple hours until the funeral home picked up the body.

Brent was the son of R. B. & Velma Human from Sonbright Christian Center. He and his wife, Savannah, have two children, the second born a little over a month ago.

For the past hour or so I have been sitting here in my office remembering the many good times and conversations I have had with Brent. He was a good young man whom I am deeply thankful that I had the opportunity to know.

This is a very difficult time for Savannah as well as for R. B., Velma, Bryant (brother), and Victoria (sister). Please remember them in your prayers as well as the rest of the family.

I will post funeral arrangements here as soon as I know them.

Partnering with Guatemala

We were very pleased to have the Byrd family back with us yesterday. David and Vicki and their daughter, Melissa, are "Making a a Spiritual Difference by Meeting Physical Needs" of people in the Camotan, Chiquimula region.

Jesus gave clear instructions that we are to go into all the world (Matthew 28:19-20) sharing the gospel. While all of us cannot go into other nations of the world, I believe God will bless our efforts as we support those who have made such a commitment. I want to thank everyone at New Beginnings for the wonderful offering received yesterday for the Byrds.

More pics from Saturday

Fall Bash

About 45 people attended the Fall Bash yesterday and we want to thank Bill & Kim for opening up their home for this very enjoyable time. They organized a number of fun games that brought participation from children and adults alike. Everyone seemed to enjoy the fun and fellowship!

Autumn Acres

We had an awesome time Sunday evening at Autumn Acres. A total of 21 people came out to join us through the corn maze and pumpkin patch. It was fun watching the children (and a few adults) slide down the massive slide. It is always encouraging and uplifting to see people laughing and having a good time in the company of oneanother.

This Saturday Bill and Kim are hosting a Fall Blast at their home. Everyone is invited to attend. Also, Harvest Christian Fellowship has invited New Beginnings to join them for their annual Hay Ride and Weiner Roast this Sunday evening.

Update from the Juday's

Thank you all for your prayers. The hospital didn't think Dan's father would make it through that first night but, once again, he bounced back and is now back at home. ... He is kind of weak and tired, but otherwise seems fine.

We are staying here in Wisconsin for awhile to help Dan's sister and brother-in-law do the things they have to do to get ready for their yearly trek to Florida. Dad can't wait to go where it's warm (which means over 80 degrees at least). We're not sure if he'll make the trip all right but, one day at a time.

Thanks again to all who prayed and called. We are ever grateful for our friends and family for their care and compassion. We love you all.

We will let you know when we get back home and, if there are any changes in dad's condition.

Dan & Marcia

Let's Just Praise the Lord!

We were very pleased to have Bishop Jimmie Turner with us last night. He and Sister Turner are now in Cambridge, Ohio where he serves as Senior Pastor. They were here for a couple days to visit family, so I invited him to share a word from the Lord with us.

When I was just a young boy Brother Turner and my parents sang together as the Zion's Messengers. Last night they sang together again, and it was like old times. Brother Turner preached a very inspiring and uplifting message reminding us that praise works. He encouraged us to be diligent in counqueroring our discouragement by offering praise to God (Psalm 43:5).

We are very thankful for Brother and Sister Turner, and pray the Lord will bless them and the church at Cambridge, OH abundantly!

Announcement

New Beginnings is planning a trip to Autumn Acres Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch this Sunday afternoon (10/21). This will be an excellent time of family fun and fellowship with one another.

The admission is $4 for adults and children 5 & up; $2 for children 2-4; and FREE for children under 2. You can check out more details by going to Autumn Acres web-site.

Come join us for some autumn FUN!!!

Prayer Request

I learned yesterday that Dan's father was rushed to the hospital. He is 91 years old and is presently non-responsive. Dan and Marcia left yesterday for Wisconsin to be with him. They ask that we pray for Dan's father, and for them as they travel.