December 2022

live playfully

This is what life is supposed to feel like. When you aren’t held back. When you have a health partner that doesn’t just treat part of you – they care for all of you. That’s why more people prefer Atrium Health, with the most complete care that lets you get back to the moments that matter. That’s what it’s like to live fully.

About Us

WRITERS

Dr. Alan Hix

April Engstrom

Brent Goodge

Danny Hesterly

David Huff

Dorothy Teague

Greg Grotewold

Jonathon Wright

Judy Hood

Kristen West

Matt Jensen

Mitchell Qualls

Phil Wade

Rick Hughes

Sandra Gilmore

Dr. Shawn Jones

SALES

Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410 Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com PHOTOGRAPHER

Abney

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com OFFICE 423-790-5378 WEBSITE goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsrome

Hello Friends,

We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Disclaimer

All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk 6 I’ll Be Home for Christmas by Phil Wade

GoodNews for Kids 8 The Shepherds and Angels by Danny Hesterly

GoodNews Money Matters 10 Would You Like to Have Lifetime Income? by Rick Hughes

GoodNews for Men 12 Jesus and Jesus Alone by Greg Grotewold

GoodNews for Women 14 Have You Opened Your Present? by April Engstrom

GoodNews for Everyone 18 The Character of Christmas by Brent Goodge

GoodNews for Everyone 20 Tugging at Christmas by Sandra Gilmore

GoodNews Cover Story 22 Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome

GoodNews for Everyone 24 Small Gifts, Large Hearts by Kristen West

GoodNews for Life 26 The Two Greatest Gifts by David Huff

GoodNews Poetry 28 Emmanuel by Judy Hood

GoodNews for Health 30 No Doctor Heals You, Only God Can Heal You! by Dr. Shawn Jones

GoodNews for Everyone 32 He’s Already There by Dorothy Teague

GoodNews for Everyone 34 The Greatest Memory by Dr. Alan Hix

GoodNews for the New Year 36 5 Ways to Start the New Year Off Right by Mitchell Qualls

GoodNews for Everyone 38 God’s Promise Kept by Matt Jensen

GoodNews for Everyone 40 A Divinely Appointed Visit: Luke 1:39-56 by Jonathon Wright

GoodNews for your Taste Buds 42 Christmas Ambrosia Salad

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

Christmas is about connecting with God. In Jeremiah 3, God says, “You belong to me so come home O Israel.” You and I were not meant to belong to a job, past regrets, or other expectations. We were made to belong to God. Wow! When it comes to this “coming home for Christmas” idea, there are several things we must know:

1. There are no perfect homes on our planet earth—no Cleaver families here.

2. No home is permanent—kids grow up, people move away, loved ones die.

Let me say this very gently—if all we have to get us through life is family, then one day, we’re going to find ourselves very lonely. So, let’s consider a different kind of coming home this Christmas. How about a spiritual home coming? A coming home to God; a coming home to your Creator; a coming home to the One who made you. A question people have is: What can I expect by coming home to God or refocusing on God?

I. Expect to come home to God’s love and forgiveness

That’s the very first reason for Christmas—love and forgiveness. Jesus left His home to come to our home so we could get to know Him and hear God say, “I love you and forgive you.” No matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, the Heavenly Father wants you to come home to His love and forgiveness. What keeps us from doing that? Fear and rejection. God surely wants nothing to do with me. You’re dead wrong! “Nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39). Say this aloud: “God still loves me!” From the cradle to the cross with outstretched arms Jesus was in essence saying, “I’d rather die than live without you.”

II. Expect to receive His peace and strength

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

When facing tough times, which by the way, are a part of life, where do we get the reservoir of power, strength, and peace to keep going in the middle of chaos, crisis, and tragedy? Unless you’re connected to God, you can only rely on your own energy. I love the text in Matthew 11 because it doesn’t say, “Come to Me and I will give you rules.” Jesus says, “Come to Me and I will give you rest.” Not rules. Not regulations. Not restrictions. Not religion. Not rituals. But rest. “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength” (Isaiah 40:29).

III. Expect God’s purpose and plan for our lives to give hope for the future

So, why did Jesus come at Christmas? Because He didn’t want to love you from a distance! He wants to love you up close. Here’s what’s amazing: God is waiting on you! “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:12). Today—right now—God is calling for you to come home for Christmas. Luke 15 tells us that the angels are waiting to throw a party! All it takes is one lost soul coming to Christ.

The Shepherds and Angels

Do you remember that part in the Christmas Story where the angels begin to sing to the shepherds who are out in the middle of their fields taking care of their sheep? Just in case you might have forgotten, it’s found in Luke 2:8-15:

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

This had to be both amazing and a bit scary for the shepherds. I don’t think I’ve ever seen an angel, but if I did, I’d probably feel just like those shepherds did that night. There are a lot of really fun and fascinating things found in this passage of scripture. Like the announcement of the Messiah (the Savior of the world) or how there was just one angel, then all of a sudden, a ton of angels were singing. But there’s one huge thought I’ve always had that stands out when I read the Christmas Story. Here it is:

Of all the people in the world, the angel of the Lord told the most important news to a bunch of smelly, poor, and unpopular shepherds. You see, being a shepherd during Jesus’ time wasn’t a job most people wanted. Shepherds were considered not smart or trustworthy. They didn’t make a lot of money being shepherds, and most people didn’t want to be friends with them. But we see in Luke 2 that an angel of the Lord came to the shepherds FIRST! Wow!

The good news is that the Messiah, the Lord, being born in Bethlehem belonged to everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, rich or poor, liked or disliked. This good news was for shepherds and kings alike. Isn’t that just amazing? God sees us as His children. We are all important to Him. God doesn’t have favorites. His good news is for everyone.

So, during this Christmas season, we ALL get to receive the greatest gift ever given to us. His name is Jesus. He is God’s son. He is the Savior of the world, and He wants to be our friend.

Hearts • Sharpening Minds

Would You Like to Have Lifetime Income?

Money Matters

Rick Hughes with

Driven by a passion to educate, inform and prepare future retirees, Mr. Hughes founded Hughes Retirement Group in 2007. His main interest is helping his clients in reducing their taxes.

When Social Security began under President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935, the average life expectancy was 66. At that time, FDR said that Social Security would begin at age 65, but later allowed someone to take it at 62 because of life expectancy. Either way, the payout did not last long in most cases. Roosevelt’s goal was to provide Amer icans with a stream of income they could not outlive. It was a great idea that allowed someone to work x number of years, then begin collecting some of the money they paid into the SS system. With life expectancy now in the mid-80s, the biggest fear most seniors experience today is “outliving their money.” For a couple who is 60 years old, there is a 40% chance one of them will live to be 95. Now what if this happens to you? How will you handle this? If you do the math, it would make sense to take the SS benefit at age 62 if you knew you were not going to live beyond 77, but for any age beyond that, it would make sense to take SS at Full Retirement Age (FRA) or after. If you wait until FRA, you will receive an additional 8% each year until 70.

If you are a person who has worked and had a retirement account through your employer, such as a 401k, 403b, or profit sharing, then a strategy called “Lifetime Income” might pique your interest. Think of it as a pension, or benefit you receive just like your SS each and every month for the rest of your life. If and when you draw SS, you expect the check to be deposited each and every month into your account. Lifetime Income will be another stream of income being deposited into your account for the rest of your life. It is important, if possible, to create an additional income stream to supplement the income stream you receive from your SS benefit.

Another benefit to this additional Lifetime Income stream is a statement we often use: “Zero is Your Hero.” What I mean by this is that you benefit from market gains while avoiding the losses. If you could know your principle is safe from market volatility, wouldn’t you be interested in this strategy?

How does it work? Say you have a 401k, and you are on the verge of retiring but do not want to risk your principle with the market. Your funds would be linked to the index, but you would only receive gains from the market, not the losses. This is because you receive interest credits if the market performs well, but if the market takes a downturn, “Zero is Your Hero.”

I have a client who had a 401k, had accumulated $170,000 from her employer, and was ready to retire with her husband. Although their goal was to take their SS benefit each month, they could not maintain the lifestyle they wanted without addi tional income. They had decided to put the money in the bank and take out $800 per month, or $9,600 per year, to supplement their income. The problem, however, was that they would run out of money after 17 years. I gave them a different strategy that would allow them to take $1,600 per month for the rest of their lives, even after one of them died. Let’s do the math. Say they draw on this money each month for 25 years. That would amount to $480,000. Which strategy would you prefer?

If Lifetime Income is something you’d like to discuss, give Hughes Retirement Group a call. You can reach us at 423-6644203 or www.HughesRetirementGroup.com. We’d love to hear from you!

Sources: Worker-to-Beneficiary Ratio in the Social Security Program (pgpf.org)

Jesus and Jesus Alone

Ican still recall as if it were yesterday. I couldn’t eat and was anxious to get going, for I wasn’t able to think about anything else. I put my baseball uniform on and headed over to my coach’s house to catch a ride. Not only did I have a game that night, but it was my turn to pitch.

The rotation required that I take the mound every other week, which meant my nerves were working overtime every other week. I wasn’t nervous about having to pitch; I was nervous because I knew that in order for me to be pleased with my performance, I would need to do something I had not done all season. It wasn’t enough to win the game; success demanded that I pitch a no-hitter.

And as had happened all summer, I failed. Even though we won the game and I got a “w” under my name, I gave up not only a couple of hits, but in fact a run. I was crushed. And as had happened all summer, I spent the balance of the week both sulking over the bitter defeat and constantly replaying in my head the pitch sequence to each of the batters who got on base. You would have thought I had blown Game 7 of the World Series.

I’m a recovering perfectionist. The problem wasn’t that I wanted to play well; the problem was how I defined what “well” meant. I saw no difference between it and perfection; in my mind, they were one in the same.

It wasn’t until Jesus entered my life that I began to recognize not only how destructive such striving was but also how unnecessary. The Lord showed me that I was using baseball (and the myriad of other aims that received my exacting energy) as a means by which to fill a more profound need. There was no way the sport and my ability to perform it could ever possibly deliver on the expectations I carried. Even if I had pitched a perfect game, I still would have been left unsatisfied and for one very good reason. I was seeking something that was designed to be met by Jesus and Jesus alone. That something was acceptance. Only He could provide the type of approval for which my heart longed.

And when I decided to surrender my will for His, that’s exactly what I received. With tender mercy, Jesus began pouring out His unadulterated love upon my frustrated soul. He embraced me with a care that left no doubt I was not only accepted by Him but adored. Adored! The Lord loves and likes me. He delights being in my presence. “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing” (Zephaniah 3:17, ESV).

This is staggering given I didn’t do anything particularly special to deserve such treatment. In fact, I did nothing, which was the whole point Jesus was trying to impress upon me. He wanted me to stop striving, stop performing; He wanted me to be still and simply abide in Him. “Stop stiving and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, NASB). The Lord desired my heart, not my sacrifice. “For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6, ESV).

None of this outpouring of grace would have been possible without Calvary. Jesus died my death, and I took on His robe of righteousness (Romans 4:5). Because of the Son’s perfecting work on the cross, the Father now counts me as perfectly righteous. “For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:14, ESV). When the Father looks at me, He doesn’t see Greg and his brokenness; He sees Jesus and His holiness. Simply amazing.

Immeasurable in mercy, unparalleled in power, irreproachable in purity, immutable in character, unrivaled in tenderness, and irrepressible in joy, Jesus is the very embodiment of the perfection I had long sought. And I gained what I was seeking at the very moment I relinquished any effort to secure it. I became perfect when I abandoned my need to be perfect and yielded to the One who is.

May we find our acceptance in Jesus and Jesus alone. His is the only approval truly worth pursuing.

Have You Opened Your Present?

Picture it—that Christmas when you got the present you’ll never forget. Maybe it was something small, something that brought you hope when Christmas was a dark time for you. Maybe you received lots of presents, but there’s that one you’ll always remember. For me, it was a set of ballet slippers, a skirt, leg warmers, and a dance bag with my name on it. I was like so many others dreaming of being a ballerina. But what was so magical about that present wasn’t just the present, it was the heart behind it. My parents were telling me that they believed in my dream too. The clothes weren’t just pretend ballet clothes; they were the real deal. I continued to wear them throughout my ten years of ballet.

Our Heavenly Father is investing in you too. He knows your heart, and He wants to bless you with gifts that will enable you to succeed at the tasks He has placed in your heart. Yes, God gave us some mind-blowing gifts. Some knock your socks off, praise Jesus, work-in-the-Holy-Spirit kind of gifts. These gifts are the real deal. They are there to equip you and help you succeed in the path God has laid before you. A path that requires you to be in relationship with the Father to bring glory to our Lord Jesus, all of which is made possible by the Holy Spirit being present in our daily lives. The greatest gift, next to salvation, is the gift of the Holy Spirit. A living and breathing, active part of the trinity is living inside of you. This is promised to us in John 14:14-21.

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you” (John 14:16-17, ESV).

When you accepted the salvation of Jesus Christ, you were given the gift that Jesus Himself requested from the Father. Read the whole of John 14 for an even more beautiful picture of His intentionality behind this gift. The Holy Spirit

didn’t come empty handed into your spirit, either. We see in 1 Cor. 12:4-11 examples of His gifts. In Gal. 5:22-23, we see the fruit of those gifts. In Romans 12:6-8, Paul urges us to use these gifts.

Yes, God does and will always shine when He is able to work where you are weak. But think about how much He will be able to accomplish if you are willing to allow your gifts to be pushed to the level where Jesus takes over and gets the glory. You are an active, needed part of the body

of Christ, and He wants to use you. He’s gifted you with everything He needs. Have you opened it?

As we enter this Christmas season, as we remember the greatest gift ever given to us, I encourage you to remember the daily gift you have living inside you. Jesus came and died for your sins, and now the Holy Spirit lives within you to bring glory back to Jesus. Allow Him to speak God’s heart to you. Allow Him to use you for God’s good and faithful plans. He’s speaking, have you stopped long enough to listen? May God bless you this Christmas season and this coming year as you discover all He has for you. Open the gift.

Rome Church Directory

African Methodist Episcopal

Bethel AME Church

22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0019

St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 404-307-7396

Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113

Anglican

St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5892

Apostolic

First Apostolic Church of Rome 3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9551

Assembly of God

Redemption Church 105 Broadus Road NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0277

Baptist

Antioch Baptist Church 4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7248

Armuchee Baptist Church 6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-3169

Berean Baptist Church 8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-9832

Blue Pond Baptist Church 1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3296

Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9768

Bush Arbor Baptist Church 3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161 770-885-0779

Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4431

Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-1461

Cedar Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0978

Community Chapel Baptist Church 3733 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4070

Desoto Park Baptist Church 1107 Cave Spring Rd. Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-6207

Dykes Creek Baptist Church 3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161 706-291-7790

East Rome Baptist Church 601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8553

East View Baptist Church 901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8250

Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-3939

Enon Baptist Church 3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-5052

Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147

Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416

First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6850

Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-9976

Flint Hill Baptist Church 3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104 706-232-8121

Friendship Baptist Church 2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-4803

Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-6615

Greater Mount Calvary Baptist 445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-5047

Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8806

Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6642

In Focus Baptist Church 12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8963

Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2149

Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171 706-232-1917

McFall Baptist Church 3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5673

Mount Alto Church 1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-6222

Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-8777

Mount Olive Baptist Church 17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-6413

New Antioch Baptist Church 4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2248

New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706, 291-8939

New Canaan Baptist Church 3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-1984

New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga 706-235-0250

New Hope Baptist Church 399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-0507

North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2100

Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161

Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147

Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4431

PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4431

Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga 706-235-2800

Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0731

Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165 706-232-6426

Pleasant Valley South Baptist 702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-1841

Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0689

Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8114

State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124 678-988-0339

Saint Paul Baptist Church Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5037

Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-3663

Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street, PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172

Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-6174

Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8266

South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-1220

Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7217

Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161

706-291-8132

Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga 706-766-0942

Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3368

Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-8682

Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-2184

West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-1971

West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-9722

Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161

Woodlawn Baptist Church 1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4171

Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161

706-234-8729

Catholic

Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161

706-295-7014

Christian & Missionary Alliance

Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165

706-235-9190

Church of Christ

Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0675

Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147 706-234-3027

Oak Hill Church of Christ 1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165 706-291-0351

Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4444

Church of God

Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414

Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165 706-528-4225

Lindale Church of God 585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147 706-232-5676

New Life Church of God 210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0704

New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4695

North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6687

Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999

West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-880-6895

Disciples of Christ

First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161

Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration 304 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-0197

Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-9111

Foursquare

Rome Foursquare Church 308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Full Gospel

Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-7744

Independent Bible

Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165

Interdenominational

Cornerstone Church

324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165

706-234-4923

Renovation Church 13 Redmond Ct. Rome GA 30165 706-314-9084

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3300 Garden Lakes Pkwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2281

Lutheran

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257

Methodist

Chapel Hill UMC 1818 Kingston Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-9177

Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265

Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161

Livingston UMC 21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161

Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660

Mt Pleasant UMC 4782 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350

New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700

North Rome UMC 706-291-6704

Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084

Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590

Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986

Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161

Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161

Shannon UMC 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112

Silver Creek UMC 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173

706-234-2518

South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-5230

Trinity UMC 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033

Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161

West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164 706-234-6214

Nazarene

Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023

Non-Denominational

Access Church

1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497

Beech Creek Church 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-1018

Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501

Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045

Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888

Gospel Harvester Church 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858

Greater Refuge Ministries 1604 North Broad St Rome, GA 30161 706-622-2448

Legacy Church 524 Avenue A SW Rome, GA 30165

LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166

Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864

New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200

Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896

Rally Up International Ministries 2460 Shorter Avenue

Rome, Ga 30165

706-235-8561

Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8948

The Church at Rome 246 North 5th Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-2733

Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270

We The Church 1818 Kingston Hwy Rome, Ga 30161

Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158

Orthodox

All Saints Church

615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474

Pentecostal

Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001

Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787

Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865

Presbyterian

Covenant Presbyterian Church EPC 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-767-8373

First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033

Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630

Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862

Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561

Seventh-Day Adventist

Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church

307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161

706-292-0067

Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117

Cave Spring Church Directory

Cave Spring Church of God 19 Mill Street

Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348

Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-777-8360

Live Oak Baptist Church 5506 GA-100

Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566

The Empty Tomb 5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124

Rehoboth Missionary Baptist

6 Rehoboth Rd SW

Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313

First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd. Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3566

Cave Spring UMC

30 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8624

Jackson Chapel UMC 301 Jackson Chapel Rd Cave Spring, GA 30125 706-777-3750

The Character of Christmas

We love to read of the angels singing to the shepherds in Luke’s account of the Christmas story. Matthew’s edition presents Christ as the Baby King worshiped by royal emissaries. But have you ever read the Christmas story in Revelation? Both Matthew and Luke presented the Bethlehem story as the Messiah’s arrival to earth. The emphasis of both is to convince the reader that this Baby in the manger was the Prophesied One.

John’s Christmas presentation, found in the book of Revelation, doesn’t allow the reader to dwell on the bleating of sheep, the poetic Magnificat, the glorious music of the angels, or the magi from the East. You can read it in Revelation 12:1-5. Satan, the dragon, was standing ready, waiting for Jesus to arrive on earth, so that he could “devour” Jesus “as soon as (He) was born” (Revelation 12:4).

Revelation’s Christmas story gives us the backstory that Luke and Matthew did not include. Satan and one third of heaven’s angels had been expelled from heaven for rebellion against God (Revelation 12:4). Satan had heard the promise God made to the woman in Eden that One of her seed would crush his head (Genesis 3:15).

And Satan was anxiously awaiting the day the King of the universe would step foot on Satan’s territory, where Satan was sure the Creator would be an easy Prey.

Did the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit know Satan’s plans? Of course. What kind of parent sends their child to certain death? What kind of God sends Himself to certain death? What kind of God do we serve? We worship a Creator that once made us in His image (Genesis 1:26; Revelation 14:6,7). And One who committed Himself to the prospect that He would do whatever it took to restore His image in us. Christ was “slain, from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8).

And so “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” Immanuel, demonstrating to us the glorious loving character

of Almighty God (John 1:14; Matthew 1:23). Through Herod the Great, Satan did try to kill Jesus as soon as He was born (Matthew 2:16-18). But in the ignominious death of Herod, God demonstrated to satan what his own fate would be (Matthew 2:19).

The story of Christmas, as the entire story of salvation, is simply a contrast of character. Satan, the king of selfishness (Isaiah 14:12-14), set himself against Jesus Christ, the King

of

Decisions have consequences. The king of selfishness will die an ignominious death as his vassal King Herod did (Isaiah 14:16-20; Ezekiel 28:18,19). And the King of Selflessness will spend eternity worshipped by those He died to transform, knowing if He could go back, He would never have chosen any other path (Philippians 2:9-11; Isaiah 53:11).

Whose character are you praying to receive this Christmas?

Church Activities & Events

Trinity United Methodist Church

Sanders Family Christmas

Thursday, December 1 | 7:30PM - 9:30PM 606 Turner McCall Blvd, Rome, GA

Polk School District Educational Foundation

Reindeer Run & Jingle Jog 5K

Saturday, December 3 | 1:30PM - 3:00PM 607 N College Street, Cedartown, GA

Victory Baptist Church 11th Hour

Sunday, December 11 | 8:30AM 15 Hendrix Road, Rockmart, GA

Kingdom Church International Men’s Prayer

Saturday, December 17 | 7:30AM 5415 Calhoun Road NE, Adairsville, GA

Tugging at Christmas

In East Tennessee, John Muir quotes surface quite often, jarring us to discover something wonderful we’ve overlooked. Mr. Muir validates his quest into these hills, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”

When one tugs at a single thing in the Bible, he finds it attached to Christmas! Check out all the monthly Christmasconnected articles of this series in back editions of the 2022 GoodNews Magazine.

Before the common elements of Christmas today, before the tinsel and trinkets, the long ride to Bethlehem, the shepherds or the manger, there was a prayer. Zechariah and Elizabeth prayed for a son. We now know this son preached and baptized prior to the Messiah’s earthly ministry. The interesting thing about that prayer was, it’s quite possible, it had been set aside. Do you quit praying after a while? When natural evidence says the prayer won’t be answered, or when your heart loses hope? Although Zechariah’s prayer centered toward his family, the answer (their son John the Baptist) impacted the world. Your prayers are also part of a design set in motion by the Grand Designer. Only God knows the potential they hold. Keep praying! Scripture endorses our prayerful ponderings because while [Joseph] was thinking the Lord sent an angel to answer his questions (Matthew 1:20).

Also in Matthew, the “Begats” are listed. This list can be quite boring until you tug at it toward Christmas. Each name has a meaning that combines to tell the story of God’s Glory, right up to the birth of Jesus.

Another tug toward Christmas is a little town called Ephrathah, or more specially, the road connecting Ephrathah Bethlehem as it meanders even farther toward Jerusalem. Nothing changes the world quite like a road. Did you know this road brought in so many changes?

The Psalmist assures us, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). Although the road passing by Ephrathah mutely carries its travelers, the Word spotlights grand events. We know King David’s men found the Ark of the Covenant near this tiny town and with a holy procession, David took the Ark back to Jerusalem (Psalm 132:6, 2 Chronicles 1:4). As Benjamin gasped his first breaths from

the dusty air alongside this road, his mother Rachel breathed her last (Genesis 35:19). Centuries later, Jeremiah’s tears would stain this road without recourse as Babylonian soldiers forced Rachel’s shattered tribe to captivity (Jeremiah 40:1).

Not all the tears along this road were unhappy. Naomi’s friends formed a welcoming committee for Naomi’s daughterin-love and blessed her, “May Yahweh make the woman who has come into your house like Rachel and like Leah, which two built the house of Israel; and treat you worthily in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem” (Ruth 4:11). Ruth is in the genealogy of Jesus.

It is no wonder the Christmas story unfolds in Matthew with a quote from Micah, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting” (Micah 5:2). God’s people were steeped in the history of this road from Ephrathah to Jerusalem. The torch of prophecy and the lantern of history shed light on this well-worn pathway.

Even today, we continue looking for connections to Christmas through Scripture. It seems we know much about Christmas, until we look again. There’s so much to unwrap about the birth of Jesus!

Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome

If you are looking for a dedicated dealership in Rome, Georgia, that offers great pricing on new and used vehicles, not to mention superior customer service and communication, you can’t go wrong when it comes to buying your next car from Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome. As your local full-service automotive dealership, Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome offers auto financing solutions, trade-in programs, and a fully-stocked parts department and service center. Whether you are interested in a new Ram truck or an adventureready Jeep SUV, you will find what you are looking for at Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome!

Q and A with Michael Lee Minter, Internet Sales & Marketing

GoodNews: Can you tell us about Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome’s history?

Minter: “Greenway Automotive Group was originally founded in 1987 out of Orlando, Florida, just one block from the Public Square. Our founders had the vision for dynamic growth and progress that could be experienced by surrounding communities. Their ethical business practices and sense of community leadership worked hand-in-hand in building the success and progress we now enjoy at over 65 locations throughout the U.S. and beyond.”

GoodNews: How long has Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome been serving the Rome community?

Minter: “Originally, this location in beautiful Rome, Georgia, was purchased from Bob Williams in November of 2012. We were opened under the University umbrella totaling 13 locations throughout Alabama and Georgia. That has since changed, and we are now proudly a full Greenway property.

Our founders both started in the car business over 20 years ago and run one of the top dealer groups in the Nation (Top 25). They bought University from Bob Williams, who had been in business on 2nd Street for over 30 years, and moved years later to the Highway 53 location we proudly call home today!

Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome has been among the top Domestic Dealers in the south and is one of the largest volumes used car dealers in Floyd County, Georgia. Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome received the Georgia American Business Ethics Award and won the American Business Ethics Award in the small company division. This is a national recognition program for companies with a strong, demonstrated commitment to ethics in their everyday business practices. We are very

proud of this recognition and the many other services and sales awards that we have received, but the best form of recognition that we receive comes from our guests when they tell us, “You’re the greatest.”

GoodNews: What separates Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome from other dealerships in the area?

Minter: “Honestly, I find us to be the most stress fee dealer around. We aspire to treat every prospect like a million bucks when they visit us. Whether they are looking to order a vehicle, or struggling to find financing for something reliable, they can depend on us making the process as hassle-free as possible for them. It has been my experience even from my days as a Product Specialist on the sales floor that most individuals are looking for guidance and a better understanding of how the process works.

That being said, I’ve always looked at it like this—if we aren’t getting a contract for someone to purchase a vehicle today, then at the very least, we should be helping them become a customer down the line. Worst case scenario, you should be leaving with a much better understanding of what options are available to you, and a roadmap to get you at the point you wish to be. Having experienced that many of our patrons throughout my nine years here are simply hoping to either re-establish or begin establishing car credit (which helps overshadow any minor collections that may be on a person’s bureau). I have personally always made it a point to offer credit counseling and guidance, even sending them out with a link to share with potential co-buyers. I have a Facebook page dedicated to credit counseling, ‘Automotive Credit Coach.’”

GoodNews: Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome offers new and used vehicles, what is your inventory like with the lingering effects of the pandemic?

Minter: “Our new inventory has taken a major hit in that regard. Thankfully, the manufacturers have now made it easier than ever before to order vehicles specific to our

customers wants and needs, however, many people don’t wish to wait 4-6 or even 8 months for their new vehicle. Thankfully, our General Manager John Rhodes is quite skilled in keeping us stocked with an ever-evolving variety of pre-owned options. He has proven to me time and time again that he can keep us stocked with a variety of options sure to fit anyone’s desires—and budget even in the most strained of times.”

GoodNews: Can you tell us about Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome’s trade-in program?

Minter: “Absolutely, we even offer to purchase vehicles without the need to buy something from us! We use an algorithm when evaluating trades that takes into account the values from various trusted third-parties including, but not limited to, Kelly Blue Book, Manheim Market Report, Black Book, and J.D. Power. Again, so long as we can make it make sense, we are going to take the deal, or in this case, ‘your vehicle.’”

Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome is located at 2500 New Calhoun Hwy NE Rome, GA, centrally positioned five minutes from Shorter University and Berry College. You can call the dealership at (706) 5286201 or check out Greenway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Rome’s website, greenwaycdjrofrome.com, to browse through their inventory!

Small Gifts, Large Hearts

It was Christmas morning. My living room was filled with family and the remains of what had been neatly wrapped packages. We were nearing the end of our traditional gift exchange when my 13-yearold grandson produced a small, red stocking from behind his back and gave it to me. “Merry Christmas, Grandma,” he proclaimed.

I dumped out the stocking to find $13.82. The entire contents of his piggybank from home. “It’s everything I have, Grandma,” he said with a sweet smile. “And I wanted you to have it.”

My eyes welled up with tears as I gave him a bear hug that he’s probably still recovering from to this day. His comparatively small gift of the morning had the largest impact on my heart. The rest of us had purchased gifts within our budgets and from our surplus. Not him. His gift was completely and unreservedly sacrificial.

Mark 12:41-44 tells a story of a widow who did the same thing. Jesus and His disciples happened to be sitting across from the temple treasury one day as folks were coming through and dropping in their offerings. “Many rich people were putting in large sums. And a poor widow came and dropped in two tiny coins worth very little” (vs. 41-42).

Jesus used that opportunity as a teaching moment for His disciples as He told them, “I assure you: This poor widow has put in more than all those giving to the temple treasury. For they all gave out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she possessed—all she had to live on” (vs. 43-44).

The Gospel point here is simple. In regards to giving, it is always the sincerity of the thought and the attitude and generosity of the heart that God regards. Not the magnificence or largeness of the gift. In a

culture where we’re encouraged to buy big, spend more, and keep up with the Joneses, that life-giving truth is essential to remember. Small things matter. Tiny tokens of thoughtfulness and love count.

As we approach this Christmas season, I pray that we all will keep that truth close to our hearts as we give freely, sacrificially, sincerely, and with love.

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Some things in life just go together. Like home and auto insurance from State Farm®. And you with a good neighbor to help life go right. Save time and money.

Some things in life just go together. Like home and auto insurance from State Farm®. And you with a good neighbor to help life go right. Save time and money.

Some things in life just go together. Like home and auto insurance from State Farm®. And you with a good neighbor to help life go right. Save time and money.

CALL ME TODAY.

CALL ME TODAY.

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Eldridge Ins and Fin Svcs Inc

Eldridge Ins and Fin Svcs Inc

Eldridge Ins and Fin Svcs Inc

Melissa Eldridge, Agent

415 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165

Melissa Eldridge, Agent

Melissa Eldridge, Agent

415 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165

415 Shorter Ave SW GA 30165

Melissa Eldridge, Agent 415 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165 Bus: 706-234-5333 171 W Belmont Drive Suite 8 Calhoun, GA 30701 Bus: 706-383-8787

Bus: 706-234-5333

Bus: 706-234-5333

Bus: 706-234-5333

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171 W Belmont Drive Suite 8 Calhoun, GA 30701 Bus: 706-383-8787

171 W Belmont Drive Suite 8 Calhoun, GA 30701 Bus: 706-383-8787

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Like you & a good neighbor.

Like you & a good neighbor.

go together. Like you & a good neighbor.

The Two Greatest Gifts

This is one of my favorite times of the year. Leaves have turned colors and have fallen to the ground, and I love walking through them and hearing the crunching underneath my feet. For me, it is extremely peaceful and centers my mind on the things that I take for granted every day. The best part of the season is that within weeks, we are at one of the happiest times of the year—at least to me. Yes, I am referring to the gift-giving season. I love watching my kids, wife, and other family members open their presents on Christmas day.

The main reason I enjoy watching everyone is it reminds me of the two greatest gifts that God gives me every day. James 1:17 says that every good gift comes from above. Indeed, it does. One of the gifts that I am so thankful for is that each day I wake up and I have air to breathe. I love the Creation story so much because of this. In Genesis 1, man was formed from the Earth and God breathed His breath into man. God later formed woman from the side of the man and again He breathed life into her. Every day God breathes life into

us. Every morning when we wake up, the breath of God is flowing through us.

The next gift I am given every day is the opportunity to receive salvation. The opportunity to be forgiven for the things I have done and the things I will do. God could have easily said, no, you are too wicked and destroyed me, but He chose to allow Jesus to redeem me. That is a gift that keeps giving everything just as much as life. Not only do I get to experience a new day with life here on Earth, but I also get to experience eternal life with my Lord and Savior. You cannot replace those gifts.

This Christmas season, I want to encourage you to take time and think about the life that God gives you every day. The air we breathe, the eternal life we will have for those who are redeemed to Christ, and the miracle birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas, and may you enjoy the gifts that God gives us every day.

Emmanuel

Over rough terrain they traveled far

The things that have happened have just been bizarre Like when Mary told Joseph she was with child by the Holy Ghost

Most men would have left and headed for the coast But an angel came to Joseph in his sleep that night She will give birth to the Savior of the world; she did not lie

So as there was no room for them in the inn All that was left was a stable but they gave thanks once again

Before they knew it the baby was born

As the animals looked on, the cows eating corn They named him “Emmanuel” meaning “God with us”

When the three kings arrived, they made such a fuss

Giving him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh

He was such a delight; he was God’s spoken word He came to bring salvation to all men If men would just put their faith in him He hung on the cross, you see

To show his love for you and me Just think when we get to heaven fair And see all the wonders that are there

What a moment that will be When our Jesus we shall see

No Doctor Heals You, Only God Can Heal You!

Growing up in the mid-west, church was an occasional Sunday event in my family. Honestly, my Grandmother Pauline preached enough in her living room every afternoon to fill in a lot of the gaps! However, we all have times in our lives where God proves He is always in charge—even if He does not make Himself known regularly to you and stays in the background of our lives.

Fortunately, He is a loving God and will sometimes let us dig pretty deep holes we think we cannot ever recover from. But when you calm yourself and pray, the revelations

overtake me, and somehow my raft mates suddenly yanked me from the rapids and I was saved! I realized I was on a wrong path and this was another wake-up call to pray for forgiveness, redeem myself with God, and get back on the plan. God had plans for me to help people heal, and just like each of you, God has a plan to follow.

There is a saying in Chiropractic: “Life Comes from Above Down Inside Out!” It means that all healing is divine and comes from above, from God through Jesus Christ. This Life-Force is expressed inside your body outwards through the nerves. All doctors are simply tools of the Lord with special skills to help your body heal itself. No drug heals you, as they can only inhibit or stimulate body function. No surgery heals you, as it removes cancers etc. or tries to improve joints or organs. They remove the impediment to healing, and your body does the healing! It’s the same with Chiropractic care, we remove interferences of bones pinching nerves, so it’s like turning the switch on to organs, muscles, and tissues of the body. We move the bone, and the power that made your body can once again heal the body. A Chiropractor treats no diseases, we only treat people, helping your innate healing power from God do miraculous things.

He wants us to learn will come to us, and eventually, the best way out of any situation! And the key is redemption! We all make mistakes, and we all sin. Because God gave us all His only son, Jesus Christ, who died for all our sins, we only have to ask for forgiveness and admit we have sinned, and we are redeemed! How many times have you felt a hundred pounds lifted off your shoulders when you asked for forgiveness and were redeemed? It does not mean we will not suffer, but there is always light above to guide you out of any hole you dug!

The most dramatic experience for me was when I was white water rafting on the Colorado River; our raft got stuck on a huge rock at the beginning of the harsh rapids and I was hurled into the water. A few seconds later, I came up more than 50 yards from the raft. I was unable to swim 10 feet to shore or barely breathe as the current was so powerful, and I had to swallow water to get breaths. In my sheer panic, suddenly, a voice quietly said to me…it’s not your time now, you have too much to do. I immediately felt calm

Some people may seek a doctor on a nutritional basis, and some need a tumor removed. The key is God will try to get you to the right doctor for any situation. Listen to His guidance. I cannot tell you how many new patients have come in and told me, “God sent me to you. Now you better figure this out!” If God sends someone to me, I know I will do my best as He gives me strength and confidence to help people who need my help! We are taught in Chiropractic school the second most important principal, to “Share for the sake of Sharing, Give for the sake of Giving, and Love for the sake of Loving.” Remember, you cannot row someone across the river without getting there yourself. I take that to mean that all doctors of all professions that have a desire to help others heal get blessings back to them as well.

Dr. Shawn R. Jones is director of Chattanooga

Wellness Centers in Cleveland & Chattanooga

2245 Chambliss Ave. NW, Cleveland, TN 37311

6016 E Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421 (423)-790-5000. www.Bone-Whisperer.com.

He’s Already There

Iwatch a lot of “Sci-fi” shows, and I’ve been a “Trekkie” for a long time, watching the earliest Star Trek series avidly. I’m fascinated with “worm holes” and hooked on movies about time travel. I’ve always thought it would be pretty cool to be able to go back in time and fix my mistakes, or gain the knowledge of how not to make them to begin with. A peep into the future to ready ourselves for what’s to come would be quite handy. But I have to bring my vivid imaginings to a halt and step into scripture where the real answers are found.

Even though God created time, He is above time itself (Genesis 1 and 2—the seven days of creation). He is omnipresent, which means that He is everywhere at all times. We ordinary mortals cannot see the future; we can only look back at the past or see the moment we are presently in. But God is everywhere at all times, tenses, and places! He is not confined by the construct of time nor can He be contained by any of the laws of nature and science that we must abide by (“Behold, Heaven and the highest Heaven cannot contain You” 1 Kings 8:27).

Psalm 139:7-10 says, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to Heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! …if I dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.” So, no matter what

happens to me in my present or future life, He is an almighty God who is already there taking care of me. Even though I come from a long line of worriers, I try to hold fast to this tenet and what Matthew 6:34 says, “Do not be anxious about tomorrow.”

Time travel may not ever come to pass while I am on this earth, but God is already the ultimate time traveler! He is omnipresent! “We see through a glass darkly…” (1 Corinthians 13:12) but God already knows all the events of your life (Psalm 139:16) and is there in each moment of it with you. It’s comforting to know that no matter what happens in my life’s journey, He’s already there!

MAKING A DIFFERENCE, JUDE 1:22

Eradicating poverty involves an integrated approach, which Community Share Ministries is committed to providing for our local communities. It isn't enough to simply provide food and clothing to people during difficult times, but is essential to tackle all of the core issues impacting families. We believe in doing our part to make the world a better place for all within our community and the communities surrounding. We do this through feeding, clothing, and housing people in need. We exist to make a difference.

The Greatest Memory

The Christmas season is often a time for remembering. What is your fondest Christmas memory? The month of December holds some special days for our family. My father was born in December, and he and my mother were wed a few days before his birthday. Skip forward in time, and our daughter was born on my parents’ anniversary, and a few days later, I walked across the stage at New Orleans seminary for my doctoral degree.

Christmas songs often reflect memories of Christmases past. The Twelve Days of Christmas might cause us to wonder what we would do with all of those presents if our true love actually did give them to us. The cacophony from all the livestock alone might make us rethink our view of the Grinch as a villain. He had a problem with the noise too!

Closer to home, I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus might stir memories of those childhood schemes to catch a glimpse of the man in the red suit. I’ll be home for Christmas captures the wistful longing for treasured Christmas traditions.

More poignantly, Jim Brickman’s song That Silent Night, recounts the story of a courtship that began on a Christmas night and continued through the decades. Alone now, a widower looks back over the years of Christmases spent together. We feel his wistfulness in the chorus:

And the world spins round and the seasons change Letting go moving on and nothing stays the same Winter turns to Spring and Summer turns to Fall Our shadows on the wall, I still can see When I was holding you and you were holding me.

We find many details of the Christmas story in the Gospel of Luke. The difficult journey to Bethlehem, a stable turned into a delivery room, and a host of angels announcing the messiah’s birth to lowly shepherds all capture our imagination. Luke concludes his narrative with a simple statement that implies the details he recounts come from Mary’s memories: “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19).

I wonder how often during the course of Jesus’ life, Mary paused to remember the wonder of those events. As her heart was broken as she watched her son dying on a Roman cross, did she think back to those events when it seemed God was

planning something special for her child? She would not know until three days later, that God’s promise all those years ago was fulfilled in ways she could never have imagined.

During my early adult years, a popular song for church choirs to sing at Christmas was called simply, That Night. The song begins with a hushed memory of a humble birth.

That night in all of Heaven there wasn’t a sound As God and the angels watched the Earth. For there, in a stable the Father’s only Son Chose to give Himself through human birth. And when the cry of a baby pierced the universe Once for all, men were shown their worth.

The chorus crescendos into a powerful declaration of the eternal significance of this one simple event.

And the heavens exploded, with music everywhere. And the angels spilled over heaven’s edge and filled the air. And the Father rejoiced, for He did not lose His Son, But He gained to Himself forever those who’d come.

No wonder Mary pondered these things in her heart. For Christians throughout the centuries, this is truly the greatest memory. This Christmas, let us make it ours!

About The Author

5 Ways to Start the New Year Off Right

One more year is almost in the rearview, and the countdown to the new year is on. Can you believe it? If you’re like me, you may already be thinking about new opportunities and goals to help you start the new year right.

If you’re rolling your eyes at the thought of “New Year’s Resolutions,” let me just state the obvious: There’s nothing significant about January 1 when it comes to goals. There is nothing magical about new year’s resolutions. In fact, research has found that only about 45% of people even make resolutions. (And 35% of those who do quit them before the end of January.)

So, are they even worth it? While resolutions may not be the most successful, there is a lot of benefit in setting goals for yourself. Goals can help you become who you want to be, provide stability and drive you. January 1 gives you a good starting point. The calendar flips to another year, and it’s often seen as a fresh start.

But, how do we start the new year off right?

1. Reflect on the previous year.

Healthy things grow. Healthy people are no different, but to grow, we have to see where we are. Start by looking back at the previous year and ask yourself: What went well last year?

What did I accomplish? How did my life improve? What goals did I abandon? Why? What hurdles did I overcome? What do I wish I had spent more time doing?

2. Ask yourself, “What do I want to improve upon and why?”

You have the best opportunity to achieve the goals you set for yourself. Be careful not to set your goals based on what another person or our culture says. Your goals are about your health, finances, career, relationships, or whatever you choose. No matter how good a goal is, the success rate is diminished if it’s set for the wrong reasons. Side note: There is no magical number of goals either. Maybe you just need to start with one and focus on it until you achieve it.

3. Set SMART goals.

Ever heard of a SMART goal? SMART is an acronym coined in the Management Review Journal in 1981. It means specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. It’s a business model for setting goals, but it translates well to other types. Here’s a brief explanation of a SMART goal:

• Specific: Your resolution should be absolutely clear. Instead of “I want to get in better shape,” say, “I want to run a 5k in 3 months.”

• Measurable: You need a way to measure your progress. Depending on your goal, you may have to search, but look for a tool to measure your progress. Choose a method that you’ll stick with.

• Achievable: If it’s not attainable, you’ll probably give up too soon. Don’t try to jump too big, too fast. If there’s a big, lofty goal you want to achieve in the future, that’s great. Break it down into smaller goals and take those on. It’s a lot less daunting to say you want to lose 5 pounds in 2 months than to say you want to lose 50 pounds.

• Relevant: Does the goal matter to you? Is this something you want, not anyone else?

• Time-bound: Every goal needs a timeframe. The timeline must be realistic. Set a target achievement date and set benchmarks along the way.

4. Build a support system. Achieving goals is a lot easier when you surround yourself with people cheering you on. Come alongside friends or family, and all agree to share your goals and support each other. Accountability will push you to keep at it. If you need to, find an online group with similar goals and journey together.

5. Write it down. This seems simple, but there’s power in writing your goals, perhaps in your planner or on a sticky note in a prominent place. Make sure they are somewhere highly visible so you can read them over and over. And you can check off that goal once you achieve it. Go ahead and set those goals for the new year. But take the time to make a plan. As Benjamin Franklin said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.”

About The Author

You can reach Michell Qualls at Mitchell@ FirstThings.org or visit First Things First’s website for more content at firstthings.org.

God’s Promise Kept

“Iwill put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15).

In this passage, God is the one who promises, the snake is Satan, and the offspring of the woman is Jesus. Here we find that God promises that Jesus will come in order to fix and improve everything that

• Will explain God’s law (Exodus 20:1-21; Matthew 5-7)

• Will be like a substitutionary lamb who takes away sin (Exodus 12:1-28, John 1:29, 35-36)

• Will be a son of David (2 Samuel 7, especially verses 12-16; Matthew 1:1; 12:42)

• Will be the place that God’s presence fills like the temple and tabernacle, but better (Exodus 26, 40; 1 Kings 6, 8; Matthew 12:6; Colossians 2:9)

The Old Testament announces that Jesus will come. The New Testament announces that Jesus has already come and will come again. We can believe all that God has promised because he promised that Jesus would come and then delivered on it. All who repent and believe in Christ will be saved by his blood and righteousness. All who refuse to come to Christ will be judged for their sins by the God of perfect holiness. Will you stand before God in Christ or in your sins?

For all the promises of God find their Yes in him (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Adam has ruined through disobeying God (Romans 5:14; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 45). This promise means judgement for Satan but salvation for mankind. This promise grows like a tree. The more Scripture that is written, the clearer and brighter this promise becomes. For example, the offspring of the woman:

• Will be a son of Abraham (Genesis 12, 15, 17; Matthew 1:1)

• Will be a king (Genesis 49:8-12; 2 Samuel 7, especially verses 12-16; 1 Timothy 6:15)

• Will be a ruler and redeemer like Moses, but better (Deuteronomy 18:15-19; Acts 7:35)

• Will lead another Exodus (Exodus 1-15; Matthew 2:15)

And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One (Acts 7:52; read verses 1-53).

Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look (1 Peter 1:10-12).

Mission Statement:

We believe when people are equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith in Jesus Christ they have the potential to be world changers.

Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.

Writer Guidelines:

Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and professional writers to stay at home moms and dads, business professionals, and others who have a desire to reach out to people through words of encouragement.

What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you!

Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com

Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.

A Divinely Appointed Visit: Luke 1:39-56

Mary went into hyperdrive, throwing her stuff together. She had to know if the angel’s words were true. After all these years, was Elizabeth going to have a baby? Mary’s journey from Nazareth into the hill country of Judea was uphill, but she didn’t seem to mind. As each hill passed, Mary was getting closer to seeing her relatives and friend. The closer she got, the more excited she became. Mary was a woman on a mission and could not wait to see Elizabeth.

Shortly after this, the women sat down to talk and share a meal. “It is so good to see you, Mary! I have not felt God’s presence like that in a long time. You have no idea how good it is to have someone to talk to. I have been in seclusion for five months after getting pregnant. And my husband Zechariah has not said a word after the angel Gabriel told him we were going to have a child.”

Mary quickly replied, “I know Gabriel. He’s the same angel that told me about my child and your pregnancy. That is the reason I came.” Both women were amazed by all the great things that God was doing in their lives.

Elizabeth reaches across the table to give Mary some bread and asks, “How long are you staying?” “Well, I had not given it much thought, but as long as you will have me. I was hoping to help in any way I could and see the baby.” Elizabeth told one of her servants to prepare the extra room upstairs and said, “It will be a joy to have you.”

Mary finally got to the house and knocked on the door. She had no idea what was about to happen. The very moment she came into the house, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Elizabeth was in the kitchen, but her words echoed through the house. “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!”

Elizabeth knew she was pregnant without Mary having to say a word. The timing of this great blessing overwhelmed Mary’s heart. And further confirmed the truth she held deep inside.

The two women had a great time reminiscing. Mary was a tremendous help and blessing to Elizabeth and their family. Mary’s visit was a special blessing from the Lord that lifted Elizabeth’s lonely heart. But the Lord used both of them to comfort, help, and encourage each other. And in the midst of it all, God’s Spirit showed up mightily. Mary stayed with Elizabeth through the rest of her pregnancy, and it was a Godsend.

I hope this Christmas, you and your family will have a wonderful time celebrating the birth of our Savior. May we all love, serve, and encourage each other for God’s glory. May we all pray for more of God’s Spirit to help. And may we all be more like Mary and Elizabeth, true servants of God that believe in the promise of God’s Son.

Buds

Christmas Ambrosia Salad

This side dish is sure to bring joy to those around the dinner table this Christmas! Let us know if you share this sweet treat with your family this season. Tag us on Facebook at Goodnews CM.

Instructions Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can of mandarin oranges, drained

• 1 (20 ounce) can of pineapple tidbits, drained

• 1 (10 ounce) jar of maraschino cherries, drained

• ½ cup of sweetened flaked coconut

• 1 ½ cups of mini marshmallows

• ½ cup of sour cream

• 1 (8 ounce) container of Cool Whip

1. Drain the mandarin oranges, pineapple, and maraschino cherries. Pat the fruit dry. Cut the maraschino cherries in half.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the pineapple, halved maraschino cherries, flaked coconut, and mini marshmallows until combined. Then, gently fold in the mandarin oranges.

3. In a smaller bowl, mix together the sour cream and Cool Whip until well combined. Then, gently fold into fruit mixture.

4. Chill in the fridge overnight before serving.

5. Enjoy!

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