Refreshed SD 05.16.Indd
May-Jun 2016
Real life. Real community.
Second Chance Marine who lost legs in IED blast fi nds purpose on the slopes Holy Glory Batman, these geeks love Jesus!
Bringing hope to those journeying with cancer Enough... for today
■ DANIEL JENKINS Courage to take the risk
■ MICHAEL FOUST 3 things Christian parents should tell their kids about ‘Star Wars’
■ MARK MILLER Radioactive faith
■ JOANNE BROKAW Forget cool swag, conferees bring home fl u bug
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2 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 Enough…
by TIM WALKER for today
n expensive night at the ER. I always think of God’s provision as providing money—money for some A car that’s in the shop for yet another repair. bill or unexpected expense. ALooming big expenses in the next few months that I’m just not But I don’t just need money. sure where the money will come from. I need other things too. I’m a pretty good budgeter. I squirrel away funds. Sometimes my life requires more from me than I think I can give. But these things are beyond my acorn pile. People need emotional support, understanding. Or they need my knowledge. And in the midst of it all, while the lingering question is “where is that Or my physical help with something. going to come from?” God is constantly whispering something to me. People need stuff from me, from you. And sometimes, we just don’t have it to give. “I will give you what you need, when you need it. Not before. Not after.” We don’t have it in us.
And He has. Time and time again, God has provided for what we need Sometimes the most costly thing from every day life isn’t measured in when we need. Nothing more. Nothing less. currency, but in emotional toil. Life drains us out. And we’re not sure if we have what it takes to keep going. To keep As I was listening to a new song, “Enough” by singer/songwriter Sara giving. To keep doing. Groves, the following lyrics impacted me: But God can provide that too. Really we don’t need much He can be our enough, when we just don’t have it in us. Just strength to believe There’s honey in the rock, God’s been showing me that He’s enough for what I need to be the There’s more than we see husband, dad, co-worker, whatever role I fi ll. Whatever requires In these patches of joy something from me. These stretches of sorrow Whatever overwhelms me. There’s enough for today Wherever I know I have a “limit.” There will be enough tomorrow. He can give me what I need, when I need it. No more. No less.
He can give me the ability to do that one more thing in an already busy day. He can provide time for someone hurting or in need, when there just isn’t a spare minute. He can provide a solution for a problem that comes up that overwhelms me.
God is so much more than a monetary Provider, yet I’ve so limited Him to that — being content to accept my own limitations. emotionally, physically, spiritually. He’s bigger than that. His mercies are new every morning.
He provides what I need for today when I need it. No more. No less. And He can do the same for tomorrow—whatever that entails.
God be my Provider. Because I just can’t do this. I can’t solve this. I can’t make it happen. God be my Enough. ■
Tim Walker is a husband/ father/writer who is navigating faith, marriage, parenthood and mid-life. Follow his blog at www.timswords.com.
May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 3 Second chance Marine who lost legs in IED blast fi nds purpose on the slopes by LORI ARNOLD
gt. Joshua Elliott and his wife had just to realize that he was the one who had det- been transferred to Camp Lejeune, onated the bomb. SNorth Carolina after serving in Ja- “I remember being mad at the person pan, Iraq and San Diego. Elliott had barely who set it off,” he said. In the seconds that checked into his new unit when a friend followed, as he catapulted through the air, asked him to take a squad leader position Elliott said he entered the “fi ve-minute with a platoon he was leading in Iraq. fl ight.” As a combat engineer, Elliott’s job was “Time doesn’t really slow down,” he to serve as point man for the platoon, using said, but it feels like it because the brain a metal detector to fi nd and mark impro- shifts into overdrive, passing more in- vised explosive devises, clearing the way formation than usual from short-term to for the his team members as they followed long-term memory. him into various neighborhoods. “Around the pinnacle of fl ying through In April 2011, three months after landing the air it dawned on me that I might have in Afghanistan, Elliott and his team entered a been the one to set off the IED,” he re- corner building that would become their stag- called. “As I fell out of the sky I distinctly ing post and point of safety. Several guardian recall watching the roof of the building go Marine Corps Sergeant Josh Elliott survived a bomb explosion in Afghanistan in 2011 but lost both of his legs. angels—soldiers who used large guns to cover by as I fell through the hole the bomb had their team from rooftops—were preparing to just made.” kind of noise, if I didn’t call out in the dark, threatening wounds to both lungs, his in- take their positions. The force of the bomb thrust him I didn’t know if anyone would have found testines, and three of his four limbs—had a Elliott escorted the guardian angels to straight up in the air, and then straight me in time. From an outsider’s view, there vision that would change his life. their perches. back down through the hole. He landed in a was a big explosion, then Sgt. Elliott was He describes seeing an orange-like fog “As I was walking back off the roof of sitting position on the rubble of what just a gone.” that was “thick and almost granular,” fol- this building, seemingly on the same path few seconds earlier had been a roof. He thought of his friends looking for lowed by a “truly empty realm.” we all just previously walked on, I stepped “Sitting, bleeding out on this mound, him in pink mist, the slang term war veter- “At this point I know I was no longer directly on an IED,” Elliott said. breathing in the dirt and smoke after the ans use when a body is vaporized and there dreaming,” he said. “My sense of things It took a few moments for the sergeant blast, I knew that if I didn’t make some is little to look for or fi nd. had returned. My cognitive decision-mak- “Truthfully I believe I would have been ing was back. I began to look around trying pink mist had that bomb been in the ground to make some sense of where I was. There versus the roof. Because it was in the roof was no up or down. It wasn’t light, nor was and I was a heavier force, much of the blast it dark. I could try to describe it as being in went down into the room below. space, but without stars or planets or any- Two of his fellow Marines found Elliott thing.” and the unit began a series of tasks to try In a moment, he said, he sensed a “turn- to save him. A Navy corpsman put tourni- ing and fi nding something that wasn’t quets on both legs on the left arm. there before in front of me. The patrol leader called in an evacua- “I was face to face with a light,” Elliott tion helicopter. Others cleared a landing said. “As I stood there, things started to be- area. Some provided security or assembled come clear. Imagine staring at a lamp com- a makeshift gurney. They kept talking to ing in from a dark room. At fi rst all you can the sergeant to keep him awake. see is the light, but as your eyes adjust you Everyone on site knew that if Elliott had begin to see things take shape.” any chance of survival, the evacuation he- The light, he said, was bright like the licopter needed to make a prompt rescue. It sun but without burning the eyes. didn’t seem fast enough. “I was looking at a being of light and “The helicopter that landed was run by beauty seated on a throne…I felt euphoric the British, and they waited to leave the emotions mixed with a feeling of being so base until they had all the information small. I went to my knees not so much by they could about my injury, location, blood choice as by knowing what was proper and type, and such,” Elliott, now 34, said. “They right. Then He spoke: ‘Are you ready?’ The landed with doctors, nurses, and every- words weren’t heard with my ears as much thing they needed to start trauma surgery as felt in my heart, but as clear as me talk- on the helicopter—in a sense, bringing the ing, or words on paper.” hospital to me.” Elliott said he was acutely aware of the It was on the helicopter that Elliott— Creator judging his life. who was placed into a drug-induced coma “God, seated on the throne, ready to Josh Elliott relied heavily on his wife, Samantha, throughout his recovery. so that the medical team could treat life- look into my life and see my deeds,” he
4 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 there I want to be ready. You never know when you are going to die, …when your time is up.” In the foggy days that followed Elliott recalled a prayer he had asked God after watching an evangelist speak to his youth group. A former inmate, the speaker spent 45 minutes regaling the kids about his past, but made only a fl eeting mention of Jesus and his redemptive power. Although disappointed with the speech, the young teen suddenly realized that at least the man had a testimony. A Christian all his life, Elliott believed he lacked his own dramatic story to share with others. So he prayed for God to give him his own testimony. “God revealed to me this prayer in the hospital and He said, ‘I’ve given you a glimpse of me. Look what I’ve given you through this incident.’ … That gave (me) purpose. Not having legs, I can deal with that, but it became so much more, because not having legs became the end to talking about Jesus and talking about God.” “It’s a weird answer to prayer to have God take my legs, but it’s OK. I’m happy It took a month of surgeries at the National Naval where I am. That’s kind of a tough one to Medical Center in Bethesda, MD, before Josh Elliot swallow. Even though it was the enemy could be transferred to the Navy Medical Center in San who put the bomb in the building, it was Diego. God who brought me to the place were I am now.” Josh Elliott masters the adaptive equipment that allows him to compete in monoskiing. said. “Good things, rebellion, misfortune, After spending several days in Afghani- hate, peace, love. All the good and all the stan, he was fl own to Landstuhl Regional out the long recovery process. on the U.S. Paralympic Alpine National sin in my whole life was a moment from Medical Center in Germany, where sur- “I was always the strong one” … Elliott Team and hopes to compete in the 2018 being completely exposed. Like a child geons spent nearly a week on additional said. “But she needed to be strong for me. Winter Paralympic Games. In February he ashamed of what he had done, I answered procedures to prepare Elliott for the long It was a big role reversal.” earned a silver medal in the giant slalom at God, ‘No.’” fl ight to National Naval Medical Center in A month after arriving to Bethesda, the IPC Alpine Skiing World Cup Finals in As soon as Elliott said no to God, he Bethesda, Maryland. At Bethesda Elliott when his wounds were clean enough to Aspen, where he trains every winter. awoke from his surgery, the fi rst of many underwent surgeries almost every other suture for good, Elliott asked to be trans- “It was as much an equalizer and con- he would have in the coming weeks. Ulti- day, as doctors continued to remove tissue ferred to Naval Medical Center San Diego, fi dence booster as it was a therapy,” said mately doctors amputated both of his legs. where he had attended boot camp. that was destroyed by shrapnel or the re- Elliott. “When I was face to face with the throne sulting infections. For 18 months, Elliott’s work orders Although he feels the call of the moun- I felt so small, so little and so weak, and all “It was those nights and days where I were to heal. That meant routine trips to tain slopes of Aspen, the retired Marine the worldly things seemed so benign, so was trying to fi gure life out again and start- recreational, occupational and physical said he knows God is calling him to much, lame,” he recalled. “The one thing I didn’t ing rehabilitation that I questioned God,” therapists, plus seeing doctors who spe- much more. want to do was to lose that memory…. To he said. “I knew I had a purpose. I under- cialized in prosthetics, plastic surgery, der- lose that would mean I wouldn’t be fulfi ll- stood that. There was a reason I was sent matology and tissue. “The battle isn’t fought on the moun- ing the purpose He sent me back for.” back but I didn’t quite understand it and I It was through recreational therapy that taintop; it’s fought in the valley…. You With the vision came a new perspective. didn’t know what it was. It was through my Elliott discovered monoskiing, which uses can’t sit on the mountain,” he said. “You’ve “I don’t live by faith anymore,” Elliott parents, and through my wife, and prayer it a wide ski with boot mounts that face for- got to fi ght in the valley. That’s the hardest said. “I live by knowing. started to be revealed to me the divinity of ward. Because the ski can easily be adapted time because that’s where temptation is; “I’ve been there. I’ve seen God, I’ve seen the entire thing.” with a seat, many paralympic athletes have all the things that want to drag you down. judgment and I don’t ever want to be back He admits that he relied heavily on his become competitive racers. Elliott, an avid That’s where you are farthest from God, there and say ‘no’ again. Next time I’m wife, Samantha, and his parents through- snowboarder as a teen, has earned a place when you are fi ghting in the valley.” ■ Sky high challenge and victory
Sgt. Joshua Elliott, wearing prosthetics on both two alternated playful and challenging runs, they of his legs, rode the lift heavenward as he worked caught the attention of a coach from the Aspen to regain his form as a snowboarder, a hobby he Valley Ski and Snowboard Club. enjoyed for 15 years. Elliott was in Colorado for a “I wasn’t a racer,” he said. “I was barely even a skier.” multi-day adaptive camp sponsored by Disabled Still, his competitive nature emerged and at the Sports USA. end of one of the runs, Elliott couldn’t help asking As he prepared for the trip, Elliott’s recreational the coach what he thought about his efforts. therapist warned him of the diffi culties he would “He simply said, ‘You could be the best.’ They likely face on a snowboard. She recommended he were such cleverly placed words. It sparked some- try monoskiing, which uses a single, wide ski that thing in me. I had kind of been searching for my can be adapted for amputees. purpose, searching for something to do, knocking “I will try it but I won’t like it,” he responded. on doors and trying to fi gure out where God want- He opted to start with the snowboard style he had ed me. That door kind of fl ung wide open.” always used. Less than a year after fi rst putting on a monoski, It was high on the slopes in Breckenridge that Josh Elliott challenges the slopes at Oregon’s Mount Hood. Elliott was invited by the organizers of an adaptive the Marine realized that will and might do not al- paralympic development team in Aspen to com- ways win the day. “I realized this is made for me,” he said. “I can still pete on their team. “After snowboarding for 15 years it was like I was be- be on the snow, just in a different way, a little modifi ed.” “The last four years I’ve been living and training six ginner all over again,” the San Diego County resident Elliott began signing up for every ski trip made avail- months out of the year in Aspen.” said. “I couldn’t do what I wanted to do. I came off the able to him, most of them through Disabled Sports USA. This season Elliott was named to the U.S. Paralympic hill in tears every day. I was just broken.” “Once I was comfortable with it and starting to play Alpine National Team and brought home a silver medal On the last day of the camp Elliott honored his prom- around with it, it wasn’t a new freedom, but it was an at the World Cup Finals. ise to the recreational therapist and switched out his gear equalizer,” he said. “The best from every country was there,” he said, for the monoski. Within hours a new passion emerged in Toward the end of that fi rst snow season, Elliott and adding he’s hoping to make the offi cial 2018 Paralympic the purity of the white powder. a friend attended a race ski camp in Mammoth. As the team.
May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 5 Holy Glory Batman, these geeks love Jesus! by LORI ARNOLD
oe Queen was well into his 20s when serve together at CRB and fellowship by go- he began collecting Star Wars toys and ing to blockbuster movies together,” he said. Jother franchise memorabilia. The fu- “At our fi rst meeting, we talked about serving turistic fi lm, it seems, captured a key part at the church and an idea was presented for a of his past. monthly food collection called Bumper Crop.” “I grew up with Star Wars, which was re- Each Sunday church members leave do- leased when I was 5,” said Queen, who at- nated bags of groceries by the bumper of their tends the Church at Rancho Bernardo with cars. his wife Magen and two children. “I also loved “Then, my team will collect, count and Batman since watching replays of the classic store them at the church and a few days later show with Adam West.” they will be picked up by one of our local food Not long after entering his third decade, banks to help feed the needy of our commu- Queen attended his fi rst Star Wars conven- nity,” he said. tion. In 2007, after moving to San Diego from The ministry outreach has collected near- his native Washington state, Queen attended ly 7,000 bags of groceries, more than 30 bags Comic Con. a week and probably enough to fi ll hundreds “I never really thought of myself as a geek of telephone booths—an effort that would no until the late 1990s,” the 44-year-old North doubt impress Captain America. County resident said. To meet their fellowship goals, the minis- Four years ago, while serving in the Awa- try plans about six super hero movie events na program at Church at Rancho Bernardo, a year. The Geeky Guys 4 God team conducts an outreach at last year’s Miramar Family Spooktacular. From left, Ryan Tran, Queen said he began conversations with vari- “The events are open to everyone, and it is Tyler Tran, Lucas Queen, Dan Moyer and Joe Queen. ous people in the congregation who also en- a great way for fellow Christians to hang out joyed pop culture and super heroes, a move- and enjoy each other’s company—and mov- been invited to participate in other events in- serving as ushers at the convention’s wor- ment he calls traditional geek fandom. ies—as a group.” side and outside the church.” ship service. Last year they participated in “I felt God calling me to start this min- The truth component comes through reg- The outreach events include a project with two convention panels, one supporting the istry,” the probation offi cer said. “If you look ular Bible studies that usually draw about 15 the Boy Scouts, Spooktacular, a Halloween Christian Comic Arts Society. Each year the at most churches, there is not a ministry or a men. Last year their reach expanded with the military family gathering at Marine Corps Air Rancho Bernardo church hosts a post-con- group to connect with the geek culture. Many launch of Geeky Gals 4 God under the direc- Station Miramar, and the Awana Club’s Grand vention worship service featuring costumed geeks are introverts and feel awkward in so- tion of Nicole Edmonds. As many as 10 wom- Prix event. ushers and a “Super Hero” message by one of cial settings. I felt this is a community of peo- en participate weekly. “Costumes give us another way as Chris- the pastors. ple that I am a part of and love; and wanted to “The Bible studies usually have a theme,” tians to bless someone, put a smile on their “The greatest (thing) is seeing the de- see them get to know and love Jesus and grow Queen said. “The guys are currently partici- face,” he said. “It also lets others know that velopment of relationships between group in their walk with Him. pating in a study called Jedi for Jesus and the we can be Christians, dress up, have fun.” members and seeing the personal growth in “I also think that if we can introduce Je- gals recently did a study to correlate with the The group’s most intensive outreach ef- their walks with Jesus,” Queen said. “These sus to the ones who don’t know Him, some new Captain America movie.” fort is at Comic Con, the largest super hero are the best moments for me. would grow to be as passionate about Him convention in the United States. Each year “The diffi cult times were early on in the as they are about their favorite character, Capped crusaders Comic Con draws about 130,000 people, ministry when our Bible study had little par- comic book, TV show.” To create another high-profi le spin to the many dressed in costumes. Tickets typically ticipation and had me sometimes question- Queen teamed up with his friend Kev- ministry, the group added a costuming ele- sell out within hours. Similar conventions ing if this was what I was called to do.” in Hicok, a fan of Green Lantern and Iron ment two years ago after Hicok’s wife Heidi, have popped up across the country. That doubt ebbed, though, when his son, Man, to present the ministry idea to the CRB’s children’s pastor, wanted to offer a “Since San Diego is essentially the Super then a middle-schooler, begged to be includ- small groups coordinator at CRB. Super Hero theme month in Sunday School. Bowl of Comic Cons it made sense to repre- ed in the high-school-and-up ministry. It’s now an annual tradition. Each week one sent Jesus in a positive light there,” Queen “I fi nally gave in and said, ‘Let’s go,’” Birth of the Geeky Guys of the Geeky Guys dresses as a Super Hero for said. “We wanted to show a message about Dad said. “He has grown a lot and been a After getting the green light Geeky Guys 4 the children’s services and students are also the love of Jesus to Con attendees and let valuable member of the team since. He is God was born. Queen describes the ministry invited to wear their own costumes. them know you can love Jesus and go to Com- essentially the Robin to my Batman in all as a hybrid that focuses on truth, fellowship “Some of the adults have been more excit- ic Con.” aspects of the ministry.” ■ and service. ed to see the heroes than their kids,” he said. Geeky Guys 4 God have passed out sun- “We wanted to have a regular Bible study, “Since Super Hero Month began, we have block packets, bagels and water, as well as Learn more at www.geekyguysforgod.com.
Joe Queen, as Green Arrow, speaks at a post-Comic Con church service at the Church at Rancho Bernardo.
6 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 Bringing hope to those journeying with cancer by STEPHEN R. CLARK
Over 12 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with cancer, according to the Our Journey of Hope statistics of success American Cancer Society. Each year 1.5 mil- Since 2013... lion more are added to this grim statistic. • 795 churches who have gone Is your church equipped to minister to this through training growing need? • 1,223 people have attended the training ANCER. A word so terrible it de- • 299 churches have developed scribes a disease and is a synonym active cancer care ministries Cfor “pernicious, spreading evil” (The American Heritage Dictionary). ers weekly to those fi ghting cancer, oth- For many diagnosed with cancer, that’s ers provide encouragement through cards exactly what it feels like. Pernicious evil. and letters, and still others knit shawls and According to The American Association blankets. for Cancer Research (AACR), “Cancer isn’t a “People are just amazed that we take single disease. The term cancer encompasses Our Journey of Hope co-founder Percy McCray, right, prays with a cancer patient. time to share God’s love for them in such more than 200 diseases all characterized by practical ways,” said Hulsey. the uncontrolled proliferation of cells.” Over time, wrestling with this need, derstanding spiritual and emotional needs, When considering starting a cancer care While cancer is not a single disease, McCray and Langham birthed what has effectively communicating with those im- ministry, Hulsey advises: “First, spend time ® it tends to have a singular impact on our become Our Journey of Hope , a biblically- pacted by cancer, the kinds of cancers, and in prayer seeking wisdom, direction, and psyches and souls. Something usually akin based cancer care ministry sponsored and much more. guidance. Second, confi rm support within to terror and helplessness. supported by CTCA. “What we provide is an information- the congregation. Third, begin recruiting Just as the person stricken with cancer The program offers two days of training infused framework that will allow each volunteers. Finally, attend the Our Journey is befuddled and overwhelmed, often, so hosted at CTCA regional hospitals. The train- church, small or large, to customize sup- of Hope training to ensure a strong founda- are those nearby. ing, which includes meals and one night’s port to their congregation’s unique needs,” tion.” In church, we hear a prayer request re- lodging, is free of charge for up to two pastor- said Angus. In addition to the training received at lated to cancer and our Holy Spirit honed approved representatives from a church. “Timely information is essential. For the event, attendees are sent home with an instinct is to do something, to extend help, According to Rev. Dr. Drew Angus, Di- example, a huge issue is that many pa- eight-week DVD based training program to to be the living body of Christ. rector of Spiritual Outreach based out of tients succumb to malnutrition because equip their team in the church. But do what? Help how? CTCA in Philadelphia, the program initially it’s hard to eat during treatment. It’s vital “There is no fear in love,” declares 1 Beyond offering prayers—friends, fam- involved chaplains going to churches to to be aware of this and other side effects John 4:18, “but perfect love casts out fear” ily members, fellow congregants—we’re at give talks and do cancer care-related train- that infl uence quality of life.” (ESV). a loss where to begin. ing. The response was incredibly positive The goal is to equip caregivers to walk When it comes to caring for those with but soon became overwhelming. alongside patients and families, offering cancer, fear is quelled, hope is sparked, and Responding biblically to stand in the gap “As the program grew,” said Angus, “we just the right kind of support. love perfected through practical care of- In 2003, Pastors Percy McCray and Mi- realized we could be more effective bring- “This could mean one person on a care fered within the living, breathing body of chael Langham were chaplains for Cancer ing the church representatives to our fa- team drives Jane, the patient, to doctor ap- Christ—the church. ■ Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA). cilities. Here, it’s easier to draw together pointments,” said Angus. “Another may Ministering alongside doctors and nurses, oncologists, surgeons, clinicians, nutri- take her husband out for a round of golf. To learn what churches in Southern Cali- they discerned a common thread of frus- tionists, dieticians, and others to present And another team member will help their fornia have been trained and now offer active tration while caring for patients and their the training.” children with homework.” care support, or for more information or to reg- families. ister for training, contact the Cancer Treatment Medical care addressed physical needs, Equipping and empowering with knowledge Applying God’s love through practical action Centers of America’s Western Regional Medical but when it came to spiritual and practical Over the two days participants are Connie Hulsey, director of the cancer Center in Phoenix, AZ, (918) 286-5000. Church- support outside the hospital walls, there equipped with helpful information on can- care ministry for the First Baptist Church es interested in the training may register at was a gap. As the stricken turned to their cer, its side effects and possible treatments, of Montgomery, Alabama affi rms, “Each www.ourjourneyofhope.com. churches for support, help was virtually as well as guidance on how to extend sup- person handles their journey differently non-existent. While there was no lack of port. and so they need different approaches.” Stephen R. Clark is an award-winning writer and desire to help, there was a lack of informa- Topics covered include why cancer care Hulsey says of their 60 volunteers, communications professional. Learn more at www. tion and structure for doing so. is unique, identifying those in need, un- they have team members who send fl ow- cleversmithwriting.com.
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Family owned and operated by Curtis & Ann Duggan Duggan’s Collision Center 630 Grand Ave., Spring Valley (619) 465-5655
May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 7 tunes
Needtobreathe to perform ship leaders and songwriters, has released My Pursuit, a new 10-track album, at SDSU through Integrity Music. Needtobreathe will All About Worship, which is dedicat- bring its second Tour ed to equipping, encouraging and in- de Compadres to the spiring worship leaders, worship teams CalCoast Credit Union and songwriters, will be sharing songs Open Air Theatre on from the new album during a late April the campus of San Diego State University worship conference in Franklin, Tennes- on Sept. 11. The tour will also stop in Los see. It is the fi rst of two AAW conferences Angeles, Paso Robles and San Jose. this year, with a second event planned for Tickets for the show, which also fea- Phoenix, Arizona Nov. 3-5. Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott has just released the fi rst single off her new faith-based album “Love Remains.” tures Mat Kearney, John Mark McMillan “These are songs that we have and Welshly Arms, are already on sale. The wrestled through and prayed for,” said da Davis, her father, Lang Scott and her gles. concert starts at 7 p.m. Michael Farren, a producer, vocalist, younger sister Rylee Scott. Together they His success comes after a tumultuous Launched last year by rock ‘n’ rollers and songwriter, and the president of perform as Hillary Scott and the Scott Fam- year fi lled with life changes and challenges. Needtobreathe, Tour de Compadres made AAW. “They are songs that are prayer ily. That journey is evident in All I Need, which stops in 40 cities nationwide and featured conversations... songs that we hope Scott said she wrote “Thy Will” after a captures the quiet moments from a diffi - Ben Rector, Switchfoot, Drew Holcomb & will help worship leaders to be better “recent experience that left me broken- cult season for Lee. For a year and a half, the Neighbors and Colony House. shepherds and pastors.” hearted, asking why, and facing some of the while balancing family, recording, touring After selling out the world famous Red my most diffi cult days. This song is my let- and leading worship at his home church in Rocks Amphitheater, Greek Theatre, As- Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott ter to God. As I ask some really hard ques- Fort Wayne, Indiana, Lee helped walk his cend Amphitheatre and others coast to tions, I hold onto the truth that there is so father though an extended fi ght against coast, the band expanded this year’s tour releases faith-based album much to the story of my life that I can’t see, lung cancer. His father died in July. to 53 markets. The tour will promote Hard Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum has but that I still choose to trust Him.” “I started playing guitar to be like my Love, its sixth studio album through At- just released the fi rst single, “Thy Will,” dad,” Lee said. “When I encountered Jesus, I lantic Records. The album releases July 15. from her upcoming faith-based album, Lee’s latest album refl ects found a reason to sing. This project is a me- Tickets to the concert are $26 to $46. Love Remains. morial to someone that I lost, a refl ection “I wanted to make this album to share diffi cult year of something that was shared, an outlet for New offering from All About more of who I am. These songs, and many Worship artist Mike Lee, whose latest pain that’s enduring, and an expectation of like them, are the cry of my heart,” Scott album, All I Need, was recently named as a world restored. These are the best songs Worship said. one of the Top 10 Albums of 2015 by CCM I’ve written, dedicated to the best man I All About Worship, a community of wor- The album features her mother, Lin- Magazine, is about to release fi ve new sin- ever knew, for the only God who is forever.”
outtakes
Rapper Lecrae featured in life story of football player Brandon Burls- he calls an “invented chapter” on Christ’s ry,” he told the magazine. worth (Christopher Severio), will open in desert experience. The result is “Last Days He also said he understood the delicate documentary theaters across the country this summer. in the Desert,” which depicts Jesus toward nature of creating a storyline that is not “Unashamed World,” a new documen- Burlsworth, a committed Christian, was the end of his 40 days in the desert. The contained in the Holy Scriptures. tary following Lecrae, one of the hottest a walk-on hopeful for the Arizona Razor- fi lm, presented by American Zoetrope, As- “By choosing Jesus, I know what the end names in hip hop, will open in selected backs. Because his long-time dream was to piration Media, Division Films, Ironwood is,” the magazine quoted Garcia as saying. theaters beginning June 1. The Christian play for Arkansas, Burlsworth turned down Entertainment and Mockingbird Pictures, “I have some freedoms because it’s an in- rapper, a two-time Grammy Award and scholarships at smaller universities to try opens May 13. vented chapter, but I have to obey the ori- seven-time Dove win- out for the team. Known for his dis- The storyline, also created by Garcia, gin and obey the destiny.” ner who got his start tinctive black horn-rimmed glasses, explores, through a happenstance encoun- The fi lm stars Ewan McGregor, who also in a tiny garage, has the small-town Burlsworth wasn’t ter with a family in crisis, how Jesus might doubles as Satan. released seven studio considered good enough to play Di- have handled the father/son relationship. “I’ve never felt like a fi lm was as im- albums. The 85-minute vision I football, partially because of In an interview with Christianity Today, portant as this one for a long, long time,” fi lm also features past his 300-pound frame. He earned the the director said he views his project more McGregor said. “I was so moved by it, and and present members respect of teammates, coaches and as an art fi lm than a historical account. so immediately passionate and connected of the hip hop group fans for his hard work, a work ethic “We’re not trying to make a biblical sto- to it.” 116 Clique, includ- that landed him on the All-American ing Trip Lee, Tedashii, team. Bleacher Report also named Andy Mineo, Sho Bara- Burlsworth as the No. 1 Greatest ka, KB, Derek Minor, Walk-On of the Bowl Championship and DJ Offi cial. Lecrae Series Era. leads the group. The documentary is produced and di- A guard, Burlsworth was draft- rected by Art Hooker, who also wrote the ed in the third round by the Indianapolis script. He told Rapzilla, an online Christian Colts, but was killed 11 days later in a traf- hip hop magazine, that he handled 1,000 fi c accident. hours of video for the project while inter- Along with Severio, the fi lm stars Neal viewing hundreds of people. In addition McDonough, Leslie Easterbrook, Michael to following Lecrae, the fi lm also explores Parks and Nick Searcy. “Greater” is pro- Christian hip hop’s value within global cul- duced by Brian Reindl and directed by Da- ture, Rapzilla reported. vid Hunt, who co-wrote the script. It is pre- The project includes interviews with sented by Hammond Entertainment and pastors John Piper, Louie Giglio, Matt Greater Productions. Chandler and Eric Mason. The interviews are augmented with concert montages and fan videos. Film interprets Christ’s desert temptation Footballer’s journey captured Secular fi lmmaker Rodrigo Garcia ex- on big screen plores one of the most prominent stories Secular fi lmmaker Rodrigo Garcia creates interpretative fi lm about Christ’s desert temptation using a what-if “Greater,” which chronicles the real- in the life and ministry of Jesus in what scenario involving a family in crisis..
8 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 Real families overcome real problems in new ‘Parent Compass’ series by MICHAEL FOUST
he social media age has helped fami- sode. There’s a variety of issues, backgrounds lies build relationships with new and family sizes. What’s the same is their Tfriends and re-establish contacts with compass, and the compass is Christ.” old ones, but it also has had an interesting Among the families and issues covered side effect: Everyone’s life on Facebook and in the episodes: other platforms seems, well, perfect. • A family whose child suffered from a It is rare, indeed, to read about a per- disease and was healed. son’s struggles at work or at home. In- • A family whose child suffered from stead, we see pictures of smiling parents cancer and died. Pulse founder and evangelist Nick Hall is the visionary voice of Together 2016, a national event taking place in and happy children, living their seemingly • A wife who was assaulted. Washington D.C. on July 16. seamless lives. • A husband who lost his job. It is enough to make families wonder: • A mother who grew up with an absent Does anyone else share our struggles? father who was addicted to drugs. Massive prayer and worship event expected A new 12-episode Christian family series • A single mother who had scheduled seeks to break through the façade, showing an abortion three times. real families facing real challenges in life – One of the couples featured is Jonathan to draw huge crowd to national mall in July all of them talking candidly about not only and Wynter Pitts, who discuss the challenges their moments in the valleys but also how of raising their four girls. Jonathan said the Together 2016 to include 12,000 service projects they overcame their struggles. online format will naturally attract young Called “Parent Compass,” the free series couples – a target audience. In fact, he said by CHRIS MAXWELL launches May 20 on ParentCompass.TV and he and his wife got hooked one night watch- covers a multiple of life-changing moments, ing an episode about another family. ASHINGTON D.C. — Crowds showing the reality of what they believe. from the loss of a job to the loss of a child. “We literally don’t have cable at our will gather in Washington DC With a yearning to see God’s people move Along the way it spotlights 12 couples – of house,” he said. “We don’t have satellite. various races and backgrounds -- whose rela- this summer. The sound will hit from competition and division to unity and We watch TV on our phone or on our lap- W tionship with Christ (the “compass”) brought top. That’s how our generation watches. high volume. But this event won’t be a ball revival, Hall hears the 18-30 somethings them through their darkest moments. game, a superstar’s performance, a politi- crying out, “We’re doing this.” We may subscribe to ESPN or NBC online A workbook, downloadable through the cal protest, or a presidential debate. Those The Together 2016 team is deter- or whatever. But it being online and being website, also will be available for use in who travel to the nation’s capital won’t be mined to dive in and see this large vision able to share that through social media, small groups or at-home study. there for pleasure or rebellion or politics. become a reality. that’s the best way to do it.” The idea for the not-for-profi t series They will come together and pray. They “Through history there have been (The Pitts’ daughter, Alena, incidental- came from executive producer Natalie are seeking to worship together. They are historical moments of revival where the ly, is the jump-roping child star of the hit Jones, who said she began seeing the need hoping to experience God’s love together. masses could assemble together,” Hall movie “War Room.”) for such a series eight years ago at a Chris- On July 16, 2016, in the National Mall said, remembering Explo 72, Promise Jones said the goal of the series is for tian conference. Three years later, she felt parents to see God at work in the lives of of Washington DC, followers of Christ Keepers, and the many crusades led by led to launch the project. the families and be empowered to ask for from around the world will meet for To- Rev. Billy Graham. “These were signifi - “So a prayer group started and they “more of God” in theirs. She also hopes gether 2016. Their plans? To pray for a cant events where people united to seek have been praying ever since,” she said. parents who are moved by the series will new revival to come. God. Culture was changed.” “We asked God to write these episodes.” tell others about it; word of mouth, she Well-known artists and leaders like Hill- Hall sees the need for something simi- Nathan Todd Sims of Fusion Produc- said, is key to the project impacting lives. song United, Lecrae, Francis Chan, David lar but different in the present. tions directed all 12 episodes, the fi rst of Crowder, Kirk Franklin, Ravi Zacharias, Chris- “No one has to parent alone,” Jones added. “This generation is rising up to lead which won two Telly Awards, which are ■ tine Caine, Matthew West, Casting Crowns, “God is waiting for us to ask for help.” toward a historic event that will shift our given to the best in fi lm and video. Josh McDowell, Luis Palau, Mark Batterson, culture,” said Hall. “This young genera- “The whole point of this series is this: For more information, visit ParentCompass.TV. Tasha Cobbs, Michael W. Smith, and many tion has people struggling with depres- The way to manage life, family and to parent others plan to help guide this gathering. sion, self-harm, suicide, and addiction at is to follow Jesus Christ,” Jones said. “Every Michael Foust is an award-winning freelance writer Youth groups and ministry organizations will frightening rates. But Jesus is calling us episode begins with a verse and ends with a and father of four small children. He blogs about team up to meet together, pray together, and to gather together and see our genera- verse, and is brought alive through the epi- parenting at michaelfoust.com. serve together. tion changed forever.” Nick Hall, the visionary voice of To- During this political season, can peo- gether 2016, believes now is the time and ple unite in Washington DC to unite, to DC is the place. pray, to worship, to serve? Not only does “Something powerful happens when Hall and the Together 2016 team believe we come together,” said Hall, who is the this will occur and be considered a suc- founder of the student-led evangelism cess, they also believe this is just the be- movement PULSE. “In today’s live-stream ginning of the nation and world entering generation, in the time where it is possible a new season of spiritual awakening. Five to be everywhere all at once, it is also pos- thousand prayer groups believe it is pos- sible to be nowhere ever. Though we can sible. Leaders from around the world be- be everywhere at once, we are also prone lieve it is possible. to never really be anywhere. So, there is Hall sees it as not only possible, but also something about getting together in per- essential: “Each of us needs a reset, and Je- Jonathan and Wynter Pitts, and their girls, are one of the families featured in the new ParentCompass.TV 12-episode son. It matters to God when we show up in sus offers everyone a supernatural reset. We series which debuts May 20. The Pitts’ daughter, Alena, was the jump-roping child star of the hit movie “War Room.” person, when we gather together. That is believe Jesus can do unprecedented things what we plan to see in Together 2016.” in our time. Our dream is for more than one But there is more going on than gath- million people from all backgrounds to be ering together. Organizers seek more part of this generation-defi ning day. We than large numbers and excitement. have so much at our fi ngertips. We can’t Their four goals are to pray, learn, share, miss this opportunity.” ■ Marriage | Addictions | Anger Management | Trauma | PTSD and love. How do they plan to share the love they learn about and pray for? By … and more viewing this event as America’s Mission Learn more at www.reset2016.com. Follow Military and other Dr. Marcial Felan, LMFT LMFT #45603 Trip, Together 2016 is planning 12,000 Together 2016 on Twitter: @JesusIsTheReset. insurances accepted service projects. This summer event isn’t (619) 212-5222 ending with a thrill of the moment. Chris Maxwell, campus pastor for Emmanuel College, is Hall believes that prayer and service an international speaker about life with epilepsy and come together. They hope to sing about the author of seven books, including his latest, “Pause Biblically-integrated Counseling love and learn how to live this life, all while with Jesus: Encountering His Story in Everyday Life.”
May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 9 San Diego County fair to host two Christian festivals and a concert
DEL MAR — The San Diego County Fair, tenth album. The album will hit the streets which is known for its diverse offering of the same week as the Switchfoot Bro-Am rides, food and entertainment, should surfi ng event. In addition to the beachside score big points this year with faith-based gathering, the band will also hold a record attendees by offering three major Christian release party, concert and several other concerts at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. events as part of its fi rst-ever Summer Get- away, July 5 to 9. Switchfoot concert Reserved tickets for Switchfoot, includ- First on the schedule is San Diego-based ing fair admission, range from $25 to $37. Switchfoot, taking the grandstand stage at A concert-only option for reserved seats 7:30 p.m. June 3, which is opening night. is available from $16 to $22. Free, non-re- Switchfoot’s fair appearance comes a served concert seats are available on cer- month before the release of the group’s tain levels with paid admission to the fair.
Spirit West Coast-Del Mar Second on the schedule is Spirit West Coast—Del Mar, a music festival featuring Hawk Nelson will join Newsboys, Blanca, We Are Messengers, I Am They and Citizen Way as part of the June 23 Spirit West Coast—Del Mar festival. the Newsboys, Hawk Nelson, Blanca, We Are Messengers, I Am They and Citizen ets purchased online include fair admis- released 40 albums since launching her ca- Way. The June 23 festival will be present- sion. Those already holding fair admission reer at age 12. ed at two fair venues, including the main should purchase concert tickets through Details on the other performers will be stage. In addition to the music, a message the Del Mar Fairgrounds Box Offi ce. announced later in May. The artists, in- will be presented by evangelist Reid Saun- cluding solo acts and gospel choirs, will ders. perform on fi ve stages. Doors open at 4 p.m., with the fi rst con- Gospel Festival The 12th Annual Gospel Festival is set Guests for all three concert events are cert starting at 5 p.m. for June 25. Although the lineup has yet encouraged to arrive at least 90 minutes Several VIP packages are available and to be fi nalized, the event concludes with early to ensure time for navigating slow include prime reserved seats and access to the Toyota Summer Concert Series perfor- traffi c and fi nding parking spaces. autograph signing. The Platinum package mance of Shirley Caesar, set for 7 p.m. at The 12th Annual Gospel Festival is set for June 25 also includes an exclusive reception at the the grandstand. Known as the First Lady of Learn more at www.sdfair.com, www. at the San Diego County Fair. Gospel legend Shirley Turf Club room, along with an event hat Gospel Music, Caesar has won 11 Grammy switchfoot.com or transparentproductions.com. Caesar will headline the Toyota Summer Concert Series and tote bag. Awards and seven Dove Awards. She has performance. Tickets range from $20 to $150. Tick-
Two U.S. missionaries slain in Jamaica by ONIZE OHIKERE ordinator. “Harold truly became a Jamaican,” MACUNGIE, Pa. (WNS) — Jamaican said Anne Clay, a medical coordinator police are still looking for clues in the with Teams for Medical Missions, which murder of two U.S. missionaries whose is based in Macungie, Pa. “If a hurricane bodies were found the last weekend in removed the roof off your home, he was April in the Caribbean island’s rural the fi rst person to show up with a tarp.” north coast area. Hentzel and his wife, Sara, who have Harold Nichols, 53, and Randy Hent- fi ve children, worked as full-time mis- zel, 48, worked with the mission group sionaries with the group for six years. The Teams for Medical Missions, which offers couple had earlier gone through the Bible free medical care in Jamaica along with Training Center curriculum, a three-year Slain missionaries Harold Nichols, left, and Randy Hentzel served with Teams for Medical Missions in Jamaica. community outreach and sharing the program that equips people to be pastors public response and support as unprec- revival to Jamaica,’” Clay said. “That where gospel. Both men were on their way to and lay leaders in churches. The Hentzels started the training program in Jamaica, edented. we are right now. We’ve felt the outpour check an ongoing house-building project “My fi rst heart’s cry was, ‘Lord, bring and the love, and it’s unbelievable.” when they were killed. Local authorities where it continues to grow. found one body and two motorbikes in “That was Randy’s passion,” Clay bushes along a rural road before fi nding said. “He started his fi rst class four years the other body a day later. ago and they graduated in October. Now Evangelism is focus of Global Outreach Day there are fi ve separate classes going on.” Nichols and his wife, Teri, served for The fi fth annual Global Outreach Day, it,” the ministry website says about its mo- Jamaican police on May 2 said they 12 years as Teams for Medical Missions’s a collaborative effort to share the gospel tivation in offering spiritual and practical have no suspects and are searching for fi rst full-time missionaries in Jamaica. around the world, will be held May 28. The vi- evangelism training. “You don’t need to be a motive for the murders. But Jamaica Teri hosts a Bible club in her basement sion of the Global Outreach Day is to build up a ‘super-evangelist’ with a ‘super-budget.’ is plagued with high violent crime rates. every Wednesday that welcomes more a network of Christians worldwide, equipping There are thousands of ideas and creative The island of about 2.7 million people than 100 children. Nichols learned how and mobilizing them to share the Gospel to ways to lead someone to Jesus Christ.” suffered 1,200 killings in 2015, a roughly to build homes for needy families and over 200 nations on one single day. Among the many partnering organiza- 20 percent increase from the previous became the organization’s building co- Last year alone, the G.O.D. effort result- tions are Mission America Coalition, Global year. ed in the distribution of 43.2 million gospel Day of Prayer, The Call, Generals Interna- “I can tell you we’re working assidu- tracts, with 4.1 million training booklets tional, Voice in the City, Christ for All Na- ously to bring resolution to this matter,” printed. The ministry said it recorded 1.7 tions, Youth With a Mission, Life Without 10% referral for said Assistant Police Commissioner Ea- buyers and sellers million conversions in 2015. Limbs, Cru, Metro Ministries, International to your church or lan Powell. “But the motive is still very While a collaborative effort, the con- House of Prayer, Alpha International, Word ministry. unclear.” cept behind Global Outreach Day belongs of Life Fellowship, Jews for Jesus, Global U.S. Embassy public affairs counselor to Werner Nachtigal, who envisioned it Media Outreach, World Evangelical Alli- Joshua Polacheck said the staff was in while working with pastors in Africa. By ance and Every Home for Christ. contact with the victims’ families and establishing the global effort, not only are Since its inception, more than 8 million Gary L. Ryerson the ambassador had contacted the high- people being exposed to the life-changing Christian believers, thousands of church- Realtor est levels of Jamaica’s security forces. power of Jesus but his followers are also be- es, and numerous global networks have The Teams for Medical Missions Face- coming equipped to be part of the process. already joined the Global Outreach Day PROVERBS 3:5-10 book page is fl ooded with promises of “Although many Christians want to reach movement. s prayers as well as people in Jamaica of- people with the Gospel they feel limited and fering assistance. Clay described the inadequate, sometimes not even called to do Learn more at www.globaloutreachday.com.
10 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 community news
Community picnic Biblical Perspective.” The North County Start time for the 5K is 8 a.m. for runners, Hill has written and produced several businessman will also be sharing his faith while the kids fun run, now in its third year, plays that explore faith. She attends City of LAKESIDE — Lakeside Community Pres- journey, his heart for human fl ourishing, is slated for 8:30 a.m. Hope International. byterian Church will hold a neighborhood and the chaplaincy program at Hoehn Mo- Proceeds from the race, produced by picnic from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 21 on Tickets to the play range from $35 to tors. Integrated Sports Marketing, will benefi t the front lawn. $75. The breakfast is part of the new Faith@ Tomlinson’s Touching Lives Foundation, The event will include a live band, Learn more at www.tamerahillplays. Work ministry launched by Emmanuel which engages in a number of programs bounce houses, carnival games and bingo. com. Faith to help develop a more integrated designed to promote educational, social The church is located at 9908 Channel approach to faith, work and life. and cultural awareness and positive self- Road. The church is located at 639 E. 17th Ave. esteem to enhance the lives of children, Switchfoot frontman to appear Learn more at www.lakesidepc.org or Learn more at www.efcc.org or call (760) families and communities. call (619) 443-1021. at Future Quest 745-2541. In addition to the race, the family- EL CAJON — Future Quest, the annual Academy “Top Ten” Goes friendly event will include music, bounce youth training conference sponsored by ‘My Therapist Sez…’ houses, games, contests and other activi- Foothills Christian Fellowship, will be held ties, along with a free food court. Regis- Bowling LA MESA — Skyline Church will host its from June 29 to July 1. The conference is tered runners and walkers will also have SAN DIEGO — Hope Leadership Foun- monthly “My Therapist Sez…” program at open to students in grades 7 through 12. access to an autograph booth featuring dation treated its top performing students 6:45 p.m. June 7 in the Worship Center Au- This year’s theme is “One Lord. One current and former Chargers players and to a bowling outing in April. ditorium. Church. One Purpose.” local celebrities. Students were selected for the event A panel of trained therapists will re- Featured speakers include Clayton Those who register for the walk/run will after being named to the “Top Ten” point spond to questions on important life topics Jennings, an author and fi lmmaker; Bill receive a commemorative LaDainian Tom- earners for their respective grades. Points in a session moderated by Dr. Don Welch. Wilson, founder and pastor of the Metro linson event fi nisher medal and an event were awarded for daily attendance, com- The meetings are held the fi rst Tues- World Child Ministries in Brooklyn, New pleting homework, and displaying positive T-shirt. day of every month. Childcare is available York; Danny Eslinger, high school pastor at leadership and service characteristics by The event is sponsored by EDCO. with an email RSVP to esnelson@skyline- Foothills; and Mark Hoffman, founding co- going above and beyond. Learn more at www.lt5k.com. church.org. pastor at Foothills and executive director In addition to the Top Ten, the min- The church is located at 11330 Campo of Youth Venture Teen Centers and Higher istry was able to bring along three extra Road. Original play takes the stage Ground After-School Bible Clubs. students after being blessed with “spare” For more information, call (619) 660- SAN DIEGO — Local resident Tamera passes. Ten of the 13 children were bowling Musical guests include Jon Foreman, 5000. Hill will present her original play “The Soul for the fi rst time. lead singer of Switchfoot and Florida-based Mate Experiment,” a romantic comedy After bowling there was ice cream for hip hop artist KB. about a couple who meets and falls in love the students and a walk around the Embar- Rejuvenate with worship The conference includes 50-minute at a friend’s anniversary celebration, on cadero. EL CAJON — Narratives Church will host workshops on topics of importance to June 17 and 18 at the Lyceum Space. The The foundation reaches out to at-risk Rejuvenate Worship, a night of worship teens. shows will be presented at 8 p.m. Friday students by offering learning opportuni- and praise music at 7 p.m. June 10. Numerous service projects—at the and 5 p.m. Saturday. ties, after-school enhancements, mentor- Worship Pastor Josh Gates and the Nar- beach and inner-city communities—are a The show, offered through Tamera Hill ing and sports activities. ratives worship team will lead the night’s key element of the conference. Productions, will be in San Diego as part Learn more at www.hopeleadership- musical session. In addition to the worship and work- of the company’s West Coast Summer Love foundation.org. The evening will include a short devo- shops, the event offers an airsoft arena, tour. The play will return to the region tional. for an Aug. 27 show at the Star Theater in scooter park, prayer tent, game lounge, DJ The church is located at 450 Fletcher Creation and Earth History Oceanside. lounge, infl atables, a BMX course, bowling Parkway, Suite 224. ‘Taste’ fundraiser The modern-day tale follows the couple and access to a nearby amusement center. For more information, call (619) 249- The early registration fee is $38 per per- SANTEE — The Creation and Earth His- as they fall in love with the idea of marriage 6386. son before June 20. After that deadline, the tory Museum will hold its second annual and, certain they have found “the one,” rate is $45. Those wishing to attend for one Taste of Creation and Silent Auction on they decide to get married, never consider- day will be admitted for $20. Saturday, June 4, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Tomlinson 5K and fun run ing what the consequences of “happily ever the Santee museum. POINT LOMA — The 4th Annual LaDai- after” might mean. The church is located at 365 W. Bradley Event guests will have an opportunity nian Tomlinson 5K & One Mile Kids Fun The play, which contains adult topics, Ave. to walk through the history exhibits and Run will be held June 11 at NTC Park at Lib- stars Lester Barrie, Andrea Jones and Scott Learn more at www.futurequest.tv or experience themed foods for each display. erty Station. Registration begins at 7 a.m. A. Williams. call (619) 442-1467. Museum President Tom Cantor will also speak. In addition to offsetting annual operat- ing expenses, money raised at the event is used to enhance the museum’s exhibits and provide community educational programs. Last year’s event was a sellout. Tickets are $40 each or $65 per couple. The museum is located at 10946 Woodside Ave. N. Learn more at www.creationsd.org or call (619) 599-1104. Hoehn to speak at church’s business breakfast ESCONDIDO — Emmanuel Faith Com- munity Church will hold a Faith@Work breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. June 4 at the congregation’s Holy Grounds Café. The speaker will be Bill Hoehn, presi- dent of Hoehn Motors. Hoehn’s topic will be “Wealth, Success and Ambition from a
ONLINE CALENDAR OF EVENTS For more Community News and an online Calendar of Events for San Diego County, please visit www.refreshedsandiego.com.
May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 11 reality check
DANIEL JENKINS
Courage to take the risk
“Only those who will risk going too far problems as they arise. Others prefer to personalities with different levels of risk After witnessing her parents fi ght re- can possibly fi nd out how far one can go.” avoid perceived risks by distorting reality aversion and shyness. peatedly when she was a child, Susan wor- —T. S. Eliot with a common defense mechanism called Susan reports that she was a quiet, ries that her most important relationships denial. inhibited child in elementary school. She will end in unresolved confl ict as well. She Susan, a good friend of mine, caught This illustrates an interesting paradox was never one to raise her hand in class to strives to please everyone and feels emo- me off guard when she revealed that she about avoiding risks. The greatest risk we answer a question from the teacher, and tionally triggered and responsible if some- might have cancer. She openly said, “I’m can take in life is to try to avoid taking she hated being called upon to be a team one is not happy, even when their unhap- really worried about these lumps I found risks. For example, by avoiding the risk leader for any sport or activity. piness has nothing to do with her. under my skin.” I quickly inquired, “When of hearing bad news Susan increases the If you can relate to Susan in some of do you have an appointment with your chance that she will die from cancer. Early attachment: Healthy bonding these infl uencing factors, or with some doctor to get them checked?” Think of life as a series of choices and also sets the stage for later willingness to of her symptoms, then you might wonder “Oh, I’m not going to the doctor,” each choice we make can be pegged on a take risks. Insecure attachments in the what you can do about your aversion to Susan said. “He might tell me that these scale from low risk to high risk. Living life early years can create lasting insecurity in risk. lumps really are cancer.” at either extreme is fraught with danger. later relationships. Counseling for early attachment issues “What!? You’ve got to be kidding me! Choosing to live as an adrenaline junkie Susan’s parents divorced when she or trauma will help with aversion to risk. The earlier you get this checked out the is defi nitely dangerous, but avoiding risks was a young child and she recalls feeling Good counselors don’t make decisions for better,” I insisted. at all costs can be dangerous too—and it horrible separation anxiety when not in you but help you weigh pros and cons of She looked me in the eye and with all is guaranteed to fail. Finding balance and the presence of her mother. This insecure decisions that involve risk. Therapy helps seriousness said, “If I go to my doctor managing risk appropriately is the key to attachment in her fi rst relationship may people get off the fence by facing choices and their consequences. and he tells me it’s cancer then it’s real. healthy living. help to explain why subsequent relation- Immobilizing fears can be irrational Right now it’s just something I’m worried What makes someone as risk avoidant ships are characterized by a deep fear and are frequently based on “what if” about.” as Susan? This is a complex question with of rejection. Although lonely, she would thinking of worst-case scenarios. Therapy Not only was Susan trying to avoid the many infl uential factors. Here are just a few: prefer to be alone than risk the pain of helps people fi gure out what is rational risk of knowing the truth, she was also another broken heart. and what is irrational in order to make content to merely worry rather than do Nature/nurture: Some of us are genet- courageous decisions even when fear is something about the problem. ically predisposed to being cautious and Trauma: Unresolved trauma can create present. Life is full of risks and some people are averse to risk. Anyone who has had chil- a generalized anxious apprehension that Fortunately, our Savior did not let fear able to face risks squarely by dealing with dren knows that even babies have unique infl uences one’s willingness to take risks. stop him from facing one of the most hor- rifi c deaths imaginable. When we keep Je- sus as our example, then we can endure all opposition and face our fears courageously (Hebrews 12:1-3). WE TEACH SKIN CARE We have a proven effective skin care We can you. program for you. All basic skin care products Daniel Jenkins, Ph.D. help are non-comedogenic and clinically tested is a licensed clinical for skin irritancy and allergy. psychologist at Lighthouse Sandy Hertzberg Psychological Services in Mission Valley. He is also (619) 265-0138 a professor of psychology Independent at Point Loma Nazarene Beauty Consultant University. Learn more at www.lighthousepsy.com.
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12 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 purposeful parenting
MICHAEL FOUST
3 things Christian parents should tell their kids about ‘Star Wars’
In the past few months, my home has about the series: real?” To which I replied, “I guess, but not as been transformed into, well, a Jedi training cool as personally knowing the God of the institute. There is a moral worldview (if you universe. And besides, the power we have as That’s what happens when a father 1just look). The good guys in the new- Christians is more powerful than the Force.” I (that’s me) momentarily loses his mind est fi lm are truly good, and the bad guys won him over. and buys his two young sons toy light sa- are really, really, bad. Unlike so many other bers—the type that collapse into the han- popular movies today, we see the on- There is a lot of fun to be had (if we dle and then “shoot out” with just a slight screen results of bad actions—and evil is 3keep the right perspective). Mov- fl ick of the wrist. And so they have light ultimately defeated. We even have a main ies are the “worldview language” of the saber battles at morning and at night, as- character who turns bad and then seeks culture, and I enjoy using them to teach suming they’ve done their chores. “redemption” by turning good. My oldest my kids biblical truth, when possible. All of this is not surprising, consider- son once asked me: “Dad, why did Anakin Perhaps modern-day parenting would be ing that I was a “Star Wars” fan growing choose the dark side?” Soon, we were talk- easier if my boys instead played “cops and up and that a new fi lm in the series, “The ing about real-world temptation and sin, robbers,” but “Star Wars”—with its vast Force Awakens,” was released in theaters and I was left amazed that a science fi ction universe fi lled with spaceships and light sabers—just seems more fun. The Apostle last year and was recently released on movie had led us there. digital, DVD and Blu-ray. Yes, I was at the Peter urged Christians of his day to “al- ways be prepared” to give an answer about theater on opening night, and yes, soon There is an unbiblical worldview matters of faith (1 Peter 3:15). He certainly thereafter I took my 7-year-old son to (and it’s not hard to fi nd). There is watch it. 2 didn’t have in mind Jedi knights and the- no personal God in “Star Wars,” and there Still, I’d rather my kids not grow up atrical blockbusters, but as a parent living defi nitely is no heaven or hell. Instead, there fantasizing about “Star Wars.” And I also fi ctitious religion, but it’s one that has in the 21st century, I must. is an impersonal Force that is “created by all don’t want them to become like those elements borrowed from many real-world living things.” It “surrounds us” and “binds crazy people in Great Britain who pencil religions—as George Lucas himself ac- Michael Foust is the father the galaxy together.” That sounds a lot like in “The Force” as their religion on census knowledged during a 1999 interview with of four small children and pantheism, the unbiblical belief that teaches forms. And, fi nally, I don’t want them blogs about parenting at Bill Moyers. that everything and everyone is “god.” The confusing anything in the “Star Wars” uni- michaelfoust.com. So, can we Christian parents use “Star Bible teaches that God made the universe verse for anything in the Bible. Wars” to teach our children biblical truth? and is separate from it. My son once asked, Some may scoff at my concern, but I also know that my kids—like most kids— I think so. This is what I’ve told my kids “Dad, wouldn’t it be cool if the Force was are incredibly impressionable and lack discernment. And I also know that my kids—like most kids—can be clueless with FOR YOURCALL weightier matters. FREE COPY God commands parents to teach their children His commandments (Deuterono- my 6:7) throughout the day and to “train” them and prepare them for adulthood (Proverbs 22:6). Why would I hand that responsibility and privilege over to Hol- lywood and assume they can separate fact from fi ction? Print Besides, let’s be honest: “Star Wars” is a movie about a religion. Sure, it’s a Online Digital fl ipbook Downloadable PDF FAMILY FOCUS Mobile-accessible CHRISTIAN COUNSELING Focusing on Choices that Change Lives Facebook Marriage | Family Depression | Anxiety Anger Management Products and services & more featuring Christian-owned and operated businesses. Individuals Couples www.sandiegochristiandirectory.com Families Anytime. Anywhere. Any way. Insurance accepted | Sliding Scale Fees Call 619-440-4211 Pick up a free copy at your church or local Christian book store. www.familyfocuscounseling.org Or send email to [email protected] | 619.668.5100
May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 13 inspired living
MARK MILLER
Radioactive faith
I woke up on a recent morning—be- 4 By faith Abel offered to God a more ac- over the head of his staff. a list of people who—by fore my eyes were fully engaged with the ceptable sacrifi ce than Cain... And through 22 By faith Joseph, at the end of his faith—took hold of the promises of morning light—thinking about radioactive his faith, though he died, he still speaks. life, made mention of the exodus of the God. And, if you read the entire text faith. I have no idea where this thought 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he Israelites and gave directions concerning of Chapter 11 in detail, there are positive came from. My mind doesn’t think scien- should not see his bones. consequences for the people of God—faith tifi cally. In fact, come Monday mornings 7 By faith Noah, being warned by God 23 By faith Moses, when he was born, is imparted—and a radioactive conse- my mind is mindless—I just don’t think. concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent was hidden for three months by his parents, quence for the enemies of God—decay and So, to wake up to the buzzing sound of fear constructed an ark for the saving of his because they saw that the child was beauti- destruction. the phrase spiritual radiation, no doubt household. ful, and they were not afraid of the king›s Christians who embrace this kind of from the Holy Spirit, is a miracle worthy of 8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was edict. faith know that Christ is our vision. It is sharing. called to go out to a place that he was to 24 By faith Moses, when he was grown through Him that we fulfi ll our calling as Webster’s dictionary defi nes radioac- receive as an inheritance. up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh›s individuals, and corporately through the tive as having or producing a powerful and 9 By faith he went to live in the land of daughter. church. When we choose to make Him dangerous form of energy (called radiation). promise. 29 By faith the people crossed the Red known through our own God-anointed Scriptural faith is defi ned, according to 11 By faith Sarah herself received power Sea as on dry land, but the Egyptians, giftings, we cross the line of faith and choose to do radioactive damage to the Hebrews 11:1 as “the assurance of things to conceive. when they attempted to do the same, were kingdom of darkness by serving others. hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” 13 These all died in faith, not having re- drowned. There is no turning back! Combine these two defi nitions and you ceived the things promised, but having seen 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down have radioactive faith, which, by Mark them and greeted them from afar, and hav- after they had been encircled for seven days. Miller’s defi nition, is the power of the Gos- ing acknowledged that they were strangers 31 By faith Rahab the prostitute did not Mark Miller is pastor of pel being emitted/released into the kingdom and exiles on the earth. perish with those who were disobedient. Narratives Church in El of darkness and utterly destroying a decay- 17 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, 39 And all these, though commended Cajon and is a doctoral ing power. offered up Isaac, and he who had received through their faith, did not receive what was candidate in Organic How is radioactive faith illustrated in the promises was in the act of offering up his promised, Organizational Leadership Scripture? Take a good look at the Hall of only son. 40 since God had provided something at Bethel Seminary. Faith in Hebrews Chapter 11: 20 By faith Isaac invoked future blessings better for us, that apart from us they should Under his leadership, on Jacob and Esau. not be made perfect. the congregation is sponsoring Apostolos School of 3 By faith we understand that the uni- 21 By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed Leadership and Church Planting, with its fi rst B.A. verse was created by the word of God, each of the sons of Joseph, bowing in worship The above examples radiate with program launching in the fall.
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14 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016 that’s life!
JOANNE BROKAW
Forget cool swag, conferees bring home fl u bug
I awoke slowly, a tiny ray of light peek- several people who looked like they might eyes were killing me, and I was afraid that league as what some of my fellow attend- ing through the curtains as I tried to open not make it out the door. in addition to my business cards maybe I’d ees were dealing with. A dozen or more my eyes. The dog was breathing in my And then as people returned home to also passed out pink eye. If the next dis- people were out of commission for several face, his wet nose crammed into my right their corners of the country, like a giant cussion thread was about who caused the days, bedridden with fevers and vomiting eyeball. My eyes hurt, but I didn’t think it domino chain of nausea and fever, one painful temporary blindness, all fi ngers and other not very fun mementos of the was from dog slobber. They felt itchy and would point to me. conference. At least one person ended up irritated, and when I fi nally hauled myselfyself Not how I want to be remembered. in the hospital. This was no laughing mat- out of bed and looked in the mirror, I couldcould A quick trip to the doctor proved that ter. see they were also red. I panicked. I didn’t have pink eye. Phew. Nothing But as Judy Carter said in her session Uh oh. Do I have pink eye again? contagious. Just dry, irritated eyes prob- on The Message of You, “If no aspect of I’d recently gotten back from the ably caused from a weekend of crying your life sucks, you have nothing to write Erma Bombeck Writers Workshop with laughter—and self-discovery, as fears about.” in Dayton, Ohio, where I spent melted away to be replaced by creative I’d say the Erma fl u victims will have four days socializing and eating power and inspiration. And maybe some enough material to last until the next dessert before dinner. The sessions chlorine from the hotel whirlpool where workshop in 2018. My itchy eyes and pain- were instructional, the keynote speak-- I’d spent an hour soaking with friends ful toe? I’ve exhausted that experience in ers inspirational, and the message onee while we skipped the last session. one column. of encouragement and embracing one’s’s While I was at the doctor, I also had mission. We all left feeling empowered.d. him look at what I thought was a persis- Award-winning freelance And for some, nauseated. tent blister on my toe. It took just a few writer Joanne Brokaw spends What do you get when 350 women seconds to diagnose my eyes and I fi gured her days dreaming of things and 9 men check into a hotel for a as long as I had his attention I’d get my she’d like to do but probably weekend-long humor writing con- money’s worth from my co-pay. Turns never will— like swimming ference featuring top-notch guest out it wasn’t a blister, it was a wart. with dolphins, cleaning speakers, dessert with every meal, andd Eew! He froze it off, and now in addi- the attic and someday more fun than a barrel of monkeys? tion to my itchy eyes, I had a painful overcoming the trauma of elementary school picture day. You get the fl u, that’s what you get.. toe. She lives with two dogs, a cat, six chickens and one very Prior to the conference, most of us Clearly none of this is in the same patient husband. Learn more at www.joannebrokaw.com. had joined the Erma Attendees Face- book group, taking time to learn each by one other’s names, discuss packing lists, andnd others fell. admit fears about attending the premier Someone even started workshop for humorists. a Facebook poll to track who was sick, After the conference? The talk was all since so many people were posting “Me, about who caught what from whom and too” in the comment sections of other when. people’s posts. Patient Zero clearly brought the dread- Me? I got lucky. My stomach was up- ed virus to Ohio, because a few attendees set, but that could have been from all the were struck down the fi rst night and didn’t cheesecake; I don’t usually have dessert at recover until it was time to head home. A every meal. I checked my temperature ev- few others got sick over the weekend; as ery hour, just in case I was burning up and I left the hotel on Sunday morning, I saw didn’t know it. Nope, no fl u here. But my CHILD CUSTODY & Support
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May-Jun 2016 | REFRESHED 15 The tree of knowledge begins with literacy
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16 REFRESHED | May-Jun 2016