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June 2009Vol. 6 Iss. 6FREE

A word from the Publisher............ 3A World News Briefs ..................... 5A Saed & Linda Awwad .................. 7A School of Theology ..................... 9A

Restaurants .............................. 16A Worship Services ..............................18APastor Susan ..................................19AEvents Calendar ...........................20A

DOES GODREALLY EXIST?

From thePulpit of the Publisher

A special issuededicated to help you answer the age old question...

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BeginningthefirstSundayinJune Pastor Jerry will be start-ing an in depth teaching on the

Book of Revelation. Pastor Jerry is the Senior Pastor at Moun-

tain View Christian Center and has 40 years of experience as a minister of the gospel. This is

the 14th time that he has covered the Book of Revelation bringing insight and under-standing to all who attend. “This study course will

be totally different from my previous study methods and teachings. The Lord has given me a whole new and exciting way to present this book to you,” said

Pastor Jerry. “I guarantee that I will bring clarity and a higher level of comprehension to you within this

Book of Revelation that you had never thought pos-sible. With all that is happening in the world today

we truly believe that we are in the last days and you won’t want to miss these ‘end time’ messages. The

in depth ‘Bible Study’ will take several weeks to com-plete, but if you have a strong desire to grow in the

word of God it will be worth every minute!”

Mountain View Christian Center is located at 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley, CA 94561.

Service times for the ‘Book of Revelation’ Bible study: It will be taught both Sunday morning ser-

vices and then continue Wednesday as well, starting on Sunday June 7th. Sunday church service times:

9:00AM, 10:45AM. Wednesday church service: 7:00PM.Formoreinformation,callthechurchoffice

at 925-625-9570.

THE 4TH ANNUAL JESUS CELEBRATION

WHERE THE BODY COMES TOGETHER AS ONE

Come to our new location in Oakley at Trinity Christian Schools, 5000 Amaryllis Street. This year’s theme is “THY KINGDOM COME – THE PRAYER OF AGREEMENT”. This year’s project is a NON PERISHABLE - CANNED FOOD DRIVE for Helping Hands Outreach Ministry. So please bring food items to give to those in need within our community. It’s time to laugh, and it’s time to celebrate and let go of your worries. There is no better way to do this in East Contra Costa County than to attend this gathering of the Body of Christ at the Jesus Celebration 2009 envisioned by Pastors Tyrone and Susan Holmes. Fouryearsago,SusanandTyroneplannedthefirstJesusCelebration as a way for people to mingle and come together publicly as one body outside the four walls of their church, regardless of denomination, culture or racial background. Since then, the event has steadily grown from a small seed and is now being cultivated into a blossoming and fruitful vineyard full of promise and hope.

Saturday, June 27th 9:00 am – 4:00pm

Cont. on page 12

by Diana Dobbie

“I’m An Atheist... Thank God!”

by Rev. Austin Miles

The above quote was spoken by Madalyn Murray O’Hair to this writer who had asked her if she truly did not believe in God. Full story on page 6

Does God exist? Is there evidence for the existence of God? The existence of God cannot be proven or disproven. The Bible says that we must accept by faith the fact that God exists: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). If God so desired, He could simply appear and prove to the whole world that He exists. But if He did that, there would be no need for faith. “Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed’” (John 20:29). That does not mean, however, that there is no evidence of God’s existence. The Bible states, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world” (Psalm 19:1-4). Looking at the stars, under-standing the vastness of the universe, observing the wonders of nature, seeing the beauty of a sunset—all of these things point to a Creator God. If these were not enough, there is also evidence of God in our own hearts. Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us, “…He has also set eternity in the hearts of men.” Deep within us is the recognition that there is something beyond this life and someone beyond this world. We can deny this knowledge intellectu-ally, but God’s presence in us and all around us is still obvious. Despite this, the Bible warns that some will still deny God’s existence: “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God’” (Psalm 14:1). Since the vast majority of people throughout history, in all cultures, in all civilizations, and on all continents believe in the existence of some kind of God, there must be something (or someone) causing this belief. In addition to the biblical arguments for God’s existence, there are logical arguments. First, there is the on-tological argument. The most popular form of the ontological argument uses the concept of God to prove God’s existence.ItbeginswiththedefinitionofGodas“abeingthanwhichnogreatercanbeconceived.”Itisthenargued that to exist is greater than to not exist, and therefore, the greatest conceivable being must exist. If God didnotexist,thenGodwouldnotbethegreatestconceivablebeing,andthatwouldcontradicttheverydefini-tion of God. A second argument is the teleological argument. The teleological argument states that since the universe displays such an amazing design, there must have been a divine Designer. For example, if the earth were even a few hundred miles closer or farther away from the sun, it would not be capable of supporting much of the life it

currently does. If the elements in our atmosphere were even a few percentage points different, nearly every living thing on earth would die. The odds of a single protein molecule forming by chance is 1 in 10243 (that is a 10 followed by 243 zeros). A single cell is comprised of millions of protein mol-ecules. A third logical argument for God’s existence is called the cosmological argument. Every ef-fect must have a cause. This universe and everything in it is an effect. There must be something that caused everything to come into existence. Ultimately, there must be something “un-caused” in order to cause everything else to come into existence. That “un-caused” cause is God. Cont. on page 2

GOT JESUS?

2-A America’s Good News

1 Corinthians 14:25

…and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, “God is really among you!”

from cover story A fourth argument is known as the moral argument. Every culture throughout history has had some form of law. Everyone has a sense of right and wrong. Murder, lying, stealing and immorality are almost universally re-jected. Where did this sense of right and wrong come from if not from a holy God? Despite all of this, the Bible tells us that people will reject the clear and undeniable knowledge of God and believe a lie instead. Romans 1:25 de-clares, “They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.” The Bible also proclaims that people are without excuse for not believing in God: “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Romans 1:20). PeopleclaimtorejectGod’sexistencebecauseitis“notscientific”or“because there is no proof.” The true reason is that once they admit that there is a God, they also must realize that they are responsible to God and in need of forgiveness from Him (Romans 3:23, 6:23). If God exists, then we are accountable to Him for our actions. If God does not exist, then we can do whatever we want without having to worry about God judging us. That is why many of those who deny the existence of God cling strongly to the theory of naturalistic evolution—it gives them an alternative to believing in a Creator God. God exists and ultimately everyone knows that He exists. The very fact that some attempt so aggressively to disprove His existence is in fact an argu-ment for His existence. How do we know God exists? As Christians, we know God exists because we speak to Him every day. We do not audibly hear Him speaking to us, but we sense His presence, we feel His leading, we know His love, we desire His grace. Things have occurred in our lives that have no possible explana-tion other than God. God has so miraculously saved us and changed our lives that we cannot help but acknowledge and praise His existence. None of these arguments can persuade anyone who refuses to acknowledge what is already obvious. In the end, God’s existence must be accepted by faith (Hebrews 11:6). Faith in God is not a blind leap into the dark; it is a safe step into a well-lit room where the vast majority of people are already standing.Article courtesy: gotquestions.org

Does God Exist, cont’d.

Charlie Butts - OneNewsNow There is a growing awareness for using the Internet to reach people for Christ. Michelle Diedrich of Global Media Out-reach points to one reason why the Internet has be-come a useful tool. “Weliveinaverydifficulttime, in many ways, of sharing the gospel. More and more countries are closing their doors, particularly to American missionaries,” she notes. “And so as it becomes not only more and more dangerous -- or not even available -- for a missionary to go, it’s also becoming more and more expensive.” She says any Christian can become a part of Global Media Outreach and apply to become an online missionary. Another spokesman, Dr. Allan Beeber, findsitexcitingforthosewhoparticipateinleadingsomeonetoChrist,some-one they might then see in heaven. “I mean, I just get chill bumps just thinking about it,” he admits. “I’m actu-ally being used of God to affect the spiritual destiny of somebody I will see in heaven.” EveryonecantakepartintheJesus2020campaign,andchurchescanfindpeople in their own community seeking Jesus as their Savior. How to reach GMO - http://www.globalmediaoutreach.com/about_us/mission.html

Internet missionaries a growing trend

3-A

Pastor Jerry Hanoum

Publisher of America’s Good News

America’s Good News

1 John 2:5But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we

know we are in him.

Mountain View Christian Center is located at 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley,

CA 94561.Service times for the ‘Book of Revelation’ Bible study: It will be taught both Sun-day morning services and then continue Wednesday

as well, starting on Sunday June 7th. Sunday church service times: 9:00AM, 10:45AM. Wednesday

church service: 7:00PM. For more information, call

thechurchofficeat925-625-9570.

BeginningthefirstSundayinJunePastor Jerry will be starting an in

depth teaching on the

Book of Revelation

WHERE: MVCC 5000 Amaryllis Street, Oakley, CA 94561DATE: Beginning Sunday June 7th

TIME: SUNDAY’S 9:00AM & 10:45AMWED’S 7:00PM925-625-9570

BIRTHRIGHT OF BRENTWOOD PRESENTS…Rogers and Hammerstein’s

BirthrightofBrentwoodisalocalnon-profitorganizationwhosemissionistohelpwomen who are pregnant and families with young children who are in need of support. Birthrightisnotassociatedwithanyreligiousorpoliticalorganization.Ourmissionistohelp women & families in the East County. Call 925.634.1275 for assistance or informa-tion.LearnmoreabouttheBirthrightorganizationatourInternationalwebsite,birthright.org.

Richard Rogers and Oscar Hammerstein’s

The Sound of MusicFriday, June 26, 2009 8:00pm

El Campanil Theatre602 W. Second Street Antioch

TheVagabondPlayers, incollaborationwith theElCampanilChildren’sTheatre,presentthisfamilyfriendlymusicaltheatreclassic.AfavoritewithaudiencessinceitsfirstappearanceonBroadwayin1959,thisshowisinspiredbytheautobiographicalbook“TheStory of the Trapp Family Singers” written by Maria von Trapp. All proceeds will go to support Birthright of Brentwood. General Admission for the play will be $15.00 and the doorsopenat7:15pmforGeneralAdmissionticketholders.VIPadmissionis$30.00andthedoorsopenat6:00pmforVIPticketholders. Only200ticketsavailable,includesfirstofchoiceseating,drinks,historicalpresenta-tionbytheatremanager,doorprizes,apreshowperformance,andmore! TicketsmaybepurchasedinadvancebycallingRoseat925.628.3785orattheBoxOfficeat604W.SecondStreet–NexttoTheatre(M-F10-3)and1hourbeforeShowtimeor by phone at 925.757.9500 or online at www.elcampaniltheatre.com/birthright.htm

America’s Good News 4-A

Staff Report FromNewYorktoSanFranciscotheygatheredfortheNationalDayofPrayer.AllacrossAmerica,fromcitytocity,fromAntiochtoBrentwood,theycametogetherinagreement,thatGodisourcreatorthatlovesandcaresforeachoneofus.Butwhoare‘they’youask?‘They’aremayor’s,teachers,mothers,governors,citycouncilmembersbusinessowners,pastors,newsmediarepresentatives,veterans,students;thelistgoesonandon.Theyprayedoverourmilitary,government,media,businesses,educationalsystem,churchesandfamilies.Theyprayedwithboldness,withconviction,withpas-sionandwithapurpose.TheyhavefaithandtheybelievethatGodhearsourprayers;that He answers our prayers and that He wants us to come to Him in prayer continually. ‘They’ are God’s people and they are obeying His words by coming to Him in forgive-nessseekingHiswill.2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (NIV)

A few words from our prayer warriors: ANTIOCH – SeniorPastor,LarryAdams,fromGoldenHillsChurchhostedtheeventandopened up with a powerful prayer that blessed everyone that came. Then Pastor Larry’s wife,Karla,sangourNationalAnthemwithstyleandgrace,whichliftedthespirit-filledroom to a standing ovation. PastorKirklandSmith,fromGraceBibleFellowshipinAntioch,prayedforourNa-tion–“Wearecalledtoliverighteouslyintimesofunrighteousness.” Antioch’sMayorJimDavis–“MyheartisfullandIhopeyouallhavebeenfedphysicallyandspiritually.OurFather,wearegratefulforyourwords,”thenMayorDavisquotedtheBiblefromJohn13:35–“‘Bythisallmenwillknowthatyouaremydisciples,ifyouloveoneanother.’”

EAST COUNTYOBSERVES

‘NATIONAL DAYOF PRAYER’

Brentwood ANTIOCH

OAKLEY

BRENTWOOD – NDOPOrganizerLizBethFletcher–“PrayerisgoingonthroughoutourcountrytodaytorecognizeGod’sgoodnessandtothankHimforHismanyblessings,toseekHis guidance and protection for our nation.” LanisaKeithopenedupwitharesoundingrenditionoftheNationalAnthem.HervoicefilledtheroomwithbeautyandpowerasshedeliveredourAntheminawaythatsetafirmfoundationfortheprayersahead. Prayerforourmilitary-RickLemyrefromThePressquotedscripturefrom2Chronicles32:6-8. Prayerforourmedia-TriciaPiquerofrom110DegreesMagazinequotedthesescriptures-Eph.4:29,Phil.4:8,andMatt.12:36-37. SeniorPastorDaveShieldsofCornerstoneFellowshipinBrentwood–“ThisisasmallpictureofwhatHeavenwillbelike.Nothingpleasesmemorethanwhenbroth-ersandsistersinthefaithjoinheartsandjointogetherandacknowledgeourFatherinHeaven.”InthePastor’sprayerhespokehumbly,“thespiritofyoursalvationisaliveandpresentandwethankyouLordforyourhealingtouchandforgiveness.”OAKLEY – Trinity Christian School lifts up the name of our Lord under the U.S. Flag and the Christian Flag. Vice principal Art Mijares prays in the name of Jesus interceding for our nation,military,schoolsandourcitizens.HisalsoprayedfortheLord’swisdomandstrengthtoguideandprotecteverychildatTrinityChristianSchool,everychildintheDelta region and the world.

Picturedleft-BobBrockmanwithNDOPOrganizerLizBethFletcher.Farlefttoright-TriciaPiquerofrom110degreesmag,singer/songwriterLanisaKeithand Pastor Dave Shields.Pictured right at top- Anti-och’sMayorJimDavis,justbelowtoleft,PastorKirklandSmithandfarright,PastorLarryandKarlaAdams.

“LoveGod,Lovepeople”Philippians4:4(NIV)Rejoice in the Lord always.I will say it again: Rejoice!

R E J O I C E! Women’s Lifegroup

In His PresenceA Night of Praise & Worship

1st and 3rd Friday each month(JoinusonJune5)7pm-9pmHolidayInnExpressConferenceRoom8820BrentwoodBlvd.BrentwoodCA(925)634-6400Hotel(925)200-5671ContactInfo

Learn Chineseon Saturdays

Pleasant HillDVC Campus

(925) [email protected]

www.CoCoCs.org

* Language Classes: 1:00pm - 2:50pmPre-Kto12thgrade.10:00am-11:50am,Pre-Kto1stgrade.* Cultural Classes: 3:00pm - 3:50pmChinesecalligraphy,painting,folkdance,martialarts,Chineseyo-yo,abacus&more.*33yearsofExcellenceinEducation.*ChoiceofSimplifiedorTraditional Chinese Characters.* High School Foreign Language Credit.*OnlineRegistrationBeginsMay2nd,2009.

CCCS is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization

Contra Costa Chinese School

Spiritual covering by Shiloh church in

Oakland

Psalm 14:5Theretheyare,overwhelmedwithdread,forGodispresentinthecompanyof

the righteous.

Psalm 56:9ThenmyenemieswillturnbackwhenIcallforhelp.BythisIwillknowthat

God is for me.

Ecclesiastes8:17Then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under thesun.Despiteallhiseffortstosearchitout,mancannotdiscoveritsmeaning.

Evenifawisemanclaimsheknows,hecannotreallycomprehendit.

5-AAmerica’s Good News

World News Briefs

Copyright2007AmericanFamilyNewsNetwork-Usedbypermission."

Obama addressesabortion controversy

at Notre Dame

Coming to the Contra Costa Ministers Conference in June

Christians regainfree-speech

rightsat Mt. Rushmore

Wednesday,June24,2009 The Nines at Brentwood Golf Course Cost $20.00100SummersetDr.,Brentwood11:45 AM to 1:30 PM

“Inthisworkthatwedo,itwouldbeeasytogiveupateveryturn.Inthistimethatwelive,wedealalmosteverydaywiththosewhoarediscouragedandarereadytogiveup.Withourlimitedresources,it’snosecretthatwehavetoturnawayalmostasmanyaswecanhelp...andIgettiredsometimes…butIhaveasecretthatkeepsmedaybyday…theythatwaitupontheLORDshallrenewtheirstrength,theyshallmountupwithwingsaseagles;theyshallrun,andnotbeweary;theyshallwalkandnotfaint. Isaiah40:31 Istandwaitingeverydayofmylife...andGodmakessurethateveryday,Iamableto‘mountup’!IshallneverletgoofHishand!” Jacqueline Vaughnes-Smith was a manager and buyer for Macy’s California and Macy’s Corporate for 20 years before retiring and starting her second careerinministry,in1993.Sheboughtfor31storesandmanageda$12milliondollarannualbudgetforMacy’s,littlerealizingthatGodwaspreparingherforministry in His army. In1993,JacquelinebecamepastoroftheTri-CitiesCorpoftheSalvationArmyChurchinNewark.ShethenbecameaCorpofficerandPastorinSacra-mentobeforecomingtoAntiochin1999.Forthelast10years,CaptainJackieSmithhasservedthecommunityasPastorandcommunityleader,doingallthatshecantomeetthephysical,social,andspiritualneedsofEastCounty’sdisadvantagedpeople. TheSalvationArmywasachurchbeforeitbecameasocialserviceagency.GeneralWilliamBoothfoundeditinEnglandin1865,asTheChristianMis-sion.TheSalvationArmyChurchisanevangelicalChristianorganizationthatdevotesthousandsofvolunteerhourstodisasterrelief,socialservicesandothercharitable causes. WearedelightedtohaveCaptainJackieSmithdeliverthekeynoteaddressatthenextContraCostaMinistersConference. Ifyouareinministryorinanyareaofcommunityoutreachandwouldliketoattend,[email protected]

Please RSVP by June 19th

Captain Jacqueline Vaughnes-SmithThe Salvation Army, Western Territory

Charlie Butts - OneNewsNow The Alliance Defense Fund(ADF)isap-pealing a free-speech case involving federal parks. In2007,MichaelBoardleyandafewotherspassed out gospel tracts near the front entrance ofMt.Rushmore,onlytobetoldonthesecondday that they could not do so without a permit. Parkrangerssaidapplyingforandreceiv-ingthepermitwouldtaketwodays.Becauseoftimeconstraints,Boardley’spartyreturnedhome.ADFattorneyHeatherGebelinHackercontinues the story. “Whenhegothome,hetriedtoapplyforapermit.Hecontactedtheranger’sofficeseveraltimes,andtheyneverrespondedtohim,”sheexplains.“Theyneversenthimapermit.Andinfact,theyactuallydidn’tgivehimapermituntilafterwefiledthelawsuit.” HackerfindsitunbelievablethattheNa-tionalParkServicewouldbedenyingfreedomofspeech,especiallyatthefootofMt.Rushmore,where she says four men who represent Ameri-ca’sfreedomsareimmortalized. “Youknow,theFirstAmendmentisourpermit to engage in free speech on public prop-erty,andChristiansandeveryoneelseshouldnothave to get the government’s permission before theyexercisetheirfundamentalconstitutionalrights,especiallyinsuchasmall-scaleway,”sheadds. Ironically,nationalparksinWashington,DC,donotrequirepermitsforgroupswithfewerthan 25 members.

SOUTHBEND,IN-PresidentBarackObamaisexpressingsomewillingnesstoofferconscienceexemptionstohealthcareproviders who believe abortion is wrong. In a commencement speech at the University of Notre Dame,Obamasaid,“Let’shonortheconscienceofthosewhodisagreewithabortion,anddraftasensibleconscienceclause.”He offered no details on how broad that might be. The President saidheandotherpeopleoffaithcanneverknowforsurewhatGodwants,andthatelementofdoubtshouldmakethem“waryof too much self-righteousness.” TheCatholicuniversity’spresident,JohnJenkins,empha-sizedinhisintroductionthatNotreDameopposesObama’s“policiesonabortionandembryonicstemcellresearch.”Dozensof U.S. bishops said that should have prevented Notre Dame frominvitingObamatospeakandpresentinghimwithanhon-orary degree. Meanwhile,nearly40peoplewerearrestedamidprotestsover Obama’s address at Notre Dame. Hundreds converged on the Indiana school’s front gates to protest the President’s support for abortion rights and embryonic stem-cell research. During the ceremonyitself,atleastthreeprotestersinterruptedasObamabeganhisaddress,oneyelling,“Stopkillingourchildren.”Thegraduatesrespondedbychanting“Yeswecan”--thesloganthatbecame synonymous with Obama’s presidential campaign. EricScheidler,aspokesmanforthePro-LifeActionLeague,wasamongthepro-lifeprotestersinSouthBend.“IthinkallAmericans can be proud of how well our First Amendment is beingexpressedandrespectedhereattheUniversityofNotreDametoday,”heshared.Hedescribedtheschool’shonoringofthePresidentasa“scandal.” AmongthosearrestedoutsidewasNormaMcCorvey,theplaintiffidentifiedas“Roe”intheRoev.WadeSupremeCourtdecisionthatlegalizedabortion.She’snowaChristianwhoop-poses abortion. BishopJohnD’Arcy,whosedioceseincludesNotreDame,joinedapeacefulprayerprotestbystudents,callingthem“he-roes.”

Allie Martin - OneNewsNow - ThepresidentofaministrythattracksworldwidepersecutionagainstChristiansfindsit disturbing that the U.S. government would destroy Bibles sent to troops in Afghanistan. As previously reported,BiblesinAfghanlanguages that were sent to a soldier at a base in Afghanistan were destroyed to ensure troops didnottrytoevangelizethelocals.TheBiblesweresenttothesoldierbyhischurchbackhome.HetookthemtoaBiblestudyclass,whichwasfilmedandshownonAlJazeeratelevision. DuringaninterviewwithMissionNetworkNews,Open Doors USA president Dr. Carl MoellersaiditisshockingtoreadabouttheUnited States government destroying Bibles. “Ithinkitgoeswaybeyondnecessitytoac-tuallyhavetodestroythoseBibles,”hecontends.“Therearecertainlymanyorganizationsthatcould put them to very good use -- and anytime youseeaBibledestroyed,itreallyshouldshakethecoreofeveryChristiantorealizethatthisisthekindofdesecrationthatcanhappentoGod’sWord.” U.S. Central Command’s General Order Number 1 forbids troops on active duty -- includ-ing all those based in Iraq and Afghanistan -- from trying to convert people to another religion.

Ministry leaderlaments Bibledestruction inAfghanistan


by Rev. Austin Miles TheabovequotewasspokenbyMadalyn Murray O’Hair to a writer who hadaskedherifshetrulydidnotbelieveinGod;anothersubtlereminderthatdowndeep,everypersononearthinstinctivelyknowsthatGodexists.Theatheiststhem-selves unintentionally prove that God existsbyhavingdeclaredwaronHim,and[in] their determination to wipe Him off the face of the earth--which would prove difficultifHedidn’texistastheyclaim. Tenyearsago,Iwasaskedbyahomecaregivertospeaktoanatheistinhiscarewho lived in Danville. The patient’s name was Steve and when his Christian caregiv-er,JamieJust,toldhimaboutme,Stevesaidthathewouldliketohavemevisit.Steve was dying of cancer. His body was skeletalandnothinginsidehimworkedcorrectly. His condition was so severe thatitwasamazingthathewasevenalive. Afterbeingintroducedhequicklysaid,“YouknowofcoursethatI’manatheist.”“Icanunderstandthat,”Iresponded.“TherewasatimeIalmosttookthatpathmyselfbutsomeextraordi-narythingshappenedtobringmebacktoGod.” “Welljustunderstandthatyou’renotgo-ingtoconvertme,”hesaid. “I’mnotgoingtotryto,”Ianswered. Wetalkedaboutmanythings,gotalongwell,andbeforeIleft,hesaidthathewouldlikeformetocomebyandvisithimthenextday.Thevisitsbecamedailyevents. OnoneofthosedaysIsaidtohim,“I’msorryI’mlateSteve.Youknow,Ihave some health problems of my own andhadtohaveanEchotesttakentoobserve my heart before coming. When I washookedupIcouldseemyactualheartbeating on the TV monitor that had been set up. “Thedoctorturnedupthesoundof

my badly functioning heart which was fascinatingtowatchandhear.AsIlookedat that screen and saw my heart in action I marveled!Thatheartwasbeatingsteadily.There was no battery or electric power. Yetthatheart,thathaskeptmealiveforover60years,constantlypumpsbloodthroughanincrediblenetworkofveinsto every area of my body including my brainwithitsmillionsofcircuits,cellsandconnections...and again Steve....with no electrical or any other power force....it is all natural. “Y’knowSteve...youwereanengi-neer,andI’mtoldthatyouwereoneofthebest...yet you could never design anything likethisthatworksbyitself,independentof any earthly power source. Einstein him-self could never have designed something likethis.OnlyGodcould.” Stevebrokedowncrying.Hesudden-lywasabletoseetherealityofGod,whoverymuchexists.Totheastonishmentofhissister,inwhosehomehewasstaying,StevegavehishearttoJesus.Ashedid,hiswholecountenancechanged.Heaskedme to read him Scriptures. Steve passed away a few days later. I waswithhimashedied.Theyhadtakenhim to the hospital and the hospital noti-fiedmethathewouldbedeadwithinacouple of hours. I got over there in record time. I believe that there was only one reason he continued to live in that corpse-likebodywhenhelogicallyshouldhavediedmuchearlier.Likemany,Steve,whosternlyidentifiedhimselfasanatheist,andwasoutspokenabouthisunbeliefinGod,wasnottrulyconvincedinhisheartthatGoddidnotexistandnodoubtaskedhimself....”Whatif?”AssoonashecouldnolongerdenytheexistenceofGod,andacceptedJesusashisSavior,hewasable

to depart this earth in peace. Our Creator has given every human being an instinctive de-siretofindHim.Thisis the empty space in-side[that]everyonefeels,andthatemptyspacecanonlybefilledbyJesus,thesameyesterday,todayandforever.St.Augus-tinewroteinthebeginningofhisbook,TheConfessions,“Mysoulisrestlessuntilitrestsinthee,OhLordmyGod.” Steve had clung to life while inwardly insisting that his question about God be clearly answered one way or the other. It was.Afterfinallysettlingtheperplex-ing question that had plagued him for so long,Stevefeltgenuinelyfulfilledforthefirsttimeinhislife.Hethenmadehisexitinvictory. OnehasonlytoexaminethoroughlythehumanbodytorealizethatonlyGodcould create the human race. Study the survivalinstinctsofanimals,theperfectharmonyoftheplanets...orlookupandthinkaboutspace.Ithasnoboundaries..itisneverending,itgoeson...andon....andon....forever.Thereisnoend!Nobodycan comprehend such vast neverending space.Howcanthisbepossible?Butitisoutthere,nonetheless,foralltoseealongwith a myriad of other mysteries of God. The atheist scientists offer their answers hoping to disprove God. The worldwasnot,theysay,aDivinecreation.Therewasonemomentintime(note:theconceptoftimedidnotexistuntilGodcreatedtheearth)whenagiganticspon-taneouscombustionthattheycall,‘TheBig Bang’ created the world and all that would inhabit it. It all just randomly fell intoplacefollowingtheexplosion.CarlSaganexplainedthisinhisbook,“TheVi-

olentUniverse;”(Paycloseatten-tion to the last two lines which saysitall); “Scientistshave

narrowed down the mystery of creation. All that seems to be necessary is some hydrogen gas at the beginning. We under-stand how the hydrogen condenses into a firstgenerationofstars,howthesestarscookheavierelementsintheirinteriors,how these heavy elements are spewed outinsupernovaandotherexplosionstoenrichtheinterstellarmedium,andhowsubsequent generations of stars and plan-ets form from the hydrogen and heavier elements...And yet there’s this beguiling problem: Where did the original hydrogen come from?”(Italicsmine)Thedefenserests its case.

At the time Rev. Austin Miles visited Steve, he wondered why God had not answered his prayer to heal his heart. This prayer was not unanswered, but was put on hold for that exact moment when he could share his heart problem with Steve which stimulated the conversation that broke through the barrier which brought Steve the atheist to God. A few days later, on a holiday, the hospital called Rev. Miles and asked him to come in right away for another Echo examination. The startled doctors and nurses declared that his heart had not only ‘changed’, but that the right side of the heart, the one most damaged, was like a brand new heart.

“I’m An Atheist... Thank God!”“Einstein himself

could never have de-signed something like this. Only God could.”

~ Rev. Austin Miles

HayalgoNuevoencadadia?by Juan Prieto Vanidaddevanidades,dijoelPredicador;vanidaddevanidades,todoesvanidad.Queprovechotieneelhombredetodosutrabajoconqueseafanadebajodelsol?Generacionvaygeneracionviene;maslatierrasiemprepermanece. Eclesiastes 1: 1-4 QuizasaliniciodecadadianossintamoscomoelexcelsoreySalomon,alverelmecanismodecadadiaydesesperar,albuscarrespuestasynoencontrarlaalentadora,alencontrarquenuestrasabidurianoessuficiente,verlosacontecimientosdelavidaynosehacenapeteciblesparadigerir,conlasmalasnuevasdecadadia.Quizasnecesitemosunaditivoparaarrancarlasactividadescotidianas,unatazadeteodecafé,unsuplementovita-minico,ounabebidaenergetizante,oquizasunantidepresivo,seratodoestoporqueestamosconformesyfelices? QuizascomoSalomonestamosenlaconclusiondelafutilidadyfaltadesentidodelavida?Estmossiendoenvueltosenlaprofundaamargura,barnizadaconcinismo? Comopodemosencontrarlarespuesta,comolaencontroelreySalomon,antesqueseademasiadotarde,hayalgunaesperanza,alamano? Quizasestapensandodetodosesostiempospasados,enloscualesnoresultaroncomoUstedloesperaba,quizapiensaqueelpotencialdesuvidasehaperdido?Quizaslotuvotodo,peroahoraesdiferente,ayerfueyahoranoes,comoloescribioelreySalomon. Saleelsol,yseponeelsol,yseapresuraavolverallugardondeselevanta.Elvientotirahaciaelsur,yrodeaalnorte;vagirnadodecontinuo,yasusgirosvuelveelvientodenuevo.Losriostodosvanalmar,yelmarnosellena;allugardedondelosriosvinieron,allivuelvenparacorrerdenuevo.Eclesiastes1:5,6,7 ElreySalomonunobservadoryestudiosodelanaturalezaencontroconasombrodelasemejanzadelosciclosdelanaturalezaconlosciclosdelavidahumana,con,llevaasersolamenteunarepeticionconstantesinpropositoalguno,ohayuntransfondoDIVINOenelcual esta secuencia sera terminada. Queesloquefue?Lomismoquesera.Queesloquehasidohecho?Lomismoquesehara;ynadahaynuevodebajodelsol.Eclesiastes1:9QuizasestamossintiendolamismaangustiadelreySalomon,quizasnuestravidaespritual,noestaenconcordanciaconlosdesigniosdeDIOS,oaunmasquizavivimossinelcono-cimientodeDIOSodesuexistencia. Hayalgonuevodebajodelsol?

Dondeacadadiavemosconmasdesesperacioncomolatierragimededolor,lanaturale-zasufrelosestragosdelhumano,puesnohemossidosbuenoscuidadoresdeestamaravillosaherenciacelestial,asicomodiaadiavemoshermanoscontrahermanos,familiasdestruidas,porlasombradelamuerte,alfinyalcabotodavidaesabsorbidaporlamuerte,quiennospuedeayudarenestemisteriosinigual? RecordemosaligualqueelreySalomon,quehayunserquepuederesponderanuestraspreguntasmassencillasomasprofundas,porquesi!hayalgonuevobajoelsol,saberycono-cerquehaysolucion,totalyperfectaparatodosnuestrosproblemasyaundilema Acercadelamismamuerte,pues: Juan 14:6 Jesusledijo:Yosoyelcamino,ylaverdad,ylavida;nadievienealPadre,sinopormi. Juan 10:7 Volvio,pues,Jesusadecirles:Decierto,deciertoosdigo:Yosoylapuertadelasovejas. Juan6:47, Decierto,deciertoosdigo:Elquecreeenmi,tienevidaeterna.Yosoyelpandevida. ConlamuerteyresurecciondeJesus,sabemosquelamuertenoeselfindetodo,sinoquepodemosllegaravivirporlaeternidad,sinpreocuparnosdelosciclosnaturalesohuma-noscomoloobservoelreySalomon,estamosdispuestosaaceptarlarecompensamencio-nada,enarticulospasados? Apocalipsis21:1,2,3,4 Viuncielonuevoyunatierranueva;porqueelprimercieloylaprimeratierrapasaron,yelmaryanoexistiamas.YyoJuanvilasantaciudadlaNuevaJerusalen,descenderdelcielo,deDIOS,dispuestacomo una esposa ataviada para su marido.Yoiunagranvozdelcieloquedecia:HeaquieltabernaculodeDIOSconloshombres,yElmoraraconellos;yellosseransupueblo,yDIOSmismoestaraconelloscomosuDIOS.EnjugaraDIOStodalagrimadelosojosdeellos;yyanohabramuerte,nihabramasllanto,nielclamor,nieldolor;porquelasprimerascosaspasaron.

Queridolector,rectifiquecomolohizoelreySalomon,yaceptealSENORJESUS,comosuunicoredentorySalvadorenestemismoinstante,postresederodillasypidalequehagalaobraenUsted,puesleestaesperandoconbrazosabiertos,puesessusmanos,piesycostadotiene las marcas del precio que ha pagado por Usted y por mi.

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CAMINANDO A LA NUEVA JERUSALEM


Let’s Look At The History

Saed & Linda Awwad

Health

By Joann Saporito The theme for this month’s newspaperis“doesGodreallyexist?”AsIthoughtaboutthis question and how to write a health related article that matchedthistheme,IcouldnothelpbutthinkofamovieIsawyears ago. The documentary was shown on PBS andwasbyNova(1983).Itwascalled“TheMiracleofLife”andwasanincred-ible presentation that showed the abso-lutelyremarkabledevelopmentofababyfrom conception all the way through birth. Even as a young teenager I could not help walkingawayfromthemovieknowingtheretrulyisaGod,forIhadlearneditisamazingtoevenconceive.Thereareso many ways that development could go awry and a child might not be born healthy,couldhavesomesortofanomalyordefect,orperhapswouldevenbecalledto heaven prior to being born. I found that justthejourneyinsidemom’sbellytakesGod’shand! This belief in God and his miracle of life continued and was only further

enhanced when I entered nursing school and learned more about the innumerable ways that our bodies are put together and interact with each other. Truly the complexityofhowonesystemactsaloneisfascinating,buthowitsimbalancecanaffect either other systems or our bodies as a whole is truly mind-boggling. There remain many theorists who will try to prove there is no God without suc-cess.The“bigbangtheory”,forexample,triestorationalizethecreationofearthfrom nothing rather than attributing it to ourheavenlyFather.Forsomefolks,thisthinkingmaymakesense,foritisonlyhuman nature to desire to understand situationsorcircumstances-toknowtheirinnerworkings.Butbelieversknowthatwith God all things are possible. Isn’t thereacertainpeaceinthat;innotneed-ingtoknowhowsomethingworksorhow

it will come to pass but just believ-ing it will be because the Bible tells us so? If you wanttoknowif God really exists,youmight want to rent this documentary. It is not rated so I would highly consider the age of those who view it, or maybe parents could watch it prior to sharing it with children. Althoughitisveryeducational,itreallydoeshaveextremelyclear,true-lifepho-tography(youwillabsolutelywonderhowtheypossiblycouldhavefilmedthat).Itportrays literally the process of conception all the way through to a live birth. If you have any question as to whether Godexists,Iwouldencourageyoutolookall around you for there is proof every-where that He does. From the myriad of

differences among us as individuals to all of the human sciences to the natural sci-encesandbeyond,howcantherepossiblybeanydoubt? Youmaybeaskingwhatthishastodowithhealth.Well,Iwantedtotakethechancetotellyou,incaseyouhadforgot-tenordidnotknow,thatYOUtrulyarea beautiful miracle of God and are proof thatGodexistsineachofus.Myprayersand blessings go out to all of you and your families.

DoesGodReallyExist,EveninMe?YOU truly are a beauti-

ful miracle of God and are proof that God exists in

each of us. ~ Joann Saporito

Let’s Look at the History Part 5

TheWarofIndependence-1948War,(the‘Nakba’)–TheWarofIndependence,or1948Warisdividedintothepre-independenceperiod,and the post-independence period. Clashes between Israeli underground groups and Arab irregulars began almost as soon as the UN passed the partition resolution. Duringthistime,Arabcountriesdidnotinvade,thoughtheJordanlegiondidas-sistintheattackagainstGushEtzion,asmallblockofsettlementsintheterritoryallocatedtothePalestinianstate,southofJerusalem. Pre-Independence - During the period before Israeli independence was declared,twoarmiesofArabirregularvolunteers,ledbyHajAminElHusseiniintheJerusalemarea,andbyFawziElKaukjiinGalilee,placedtheirfightersin Arab towns and conducted various aggressive operations against the Jewish towns and villages under the eyes of the British.Kaukjiandhisirregularswereallowed into Palestine from Syria by the British,withtheagreementthathewouldnot engage in military actions. But he soonbroketheagreementandattackedacross Galilee. The Arab irregulars were metbytheZionistundergroundarmy,theHaganah,andbytheundergroundgroupsofthe“dissident”factions,IrgunandLehi. InJerusalem,ArabriotsbrokeoutonNovember30andDecember1,1947.Palestinian irregulars cut off the supply of food,waterandfueltoJerusalemduringalong siege that began in late 1947. Fight-ingandviolencebrokeoutimmediately

throughoutthecountry,including ambushes oftransportation,theJerusalemblockade,riots such as the Haifa refineryriots,andmas-sacresthattookplaceatGushEtzion(byPalestinians)andinDeirYassin(byJews).Arab Palestinians began leaving their townsandvillagestoescapethefighting. TheHaganahmounteditsfirstfullscaleoperation,OperationNahshon,using1,500troops.ItattackedtheArabvillagesofQoloniyahandQastel,occupiedbyArab irregular forces after the villagers hadfled,ontheroadtoJerusalemandtemporarilybrokethesiege,allowingconvoys of supplies to reach the city. QastelfellonApril8,andthekeyPales-tinianmilitarycommander,AbdelKhaderAl-Husseiniwaskilledthere.QoloniyehfellonApril11.Inthenorth,FawziEl-Kaukji’s“SalvationArmy”wasbeatenbackatthebattleofMishmarHaemeqonApril12,1948.Thesesuccesseshelpedconvince US President Truman that the Jews would not be overrun by Arab forces,andheabandonedthetrusteeshipproposal that the US had put before the UNearlier.FollowingattacksbyArabir-regulars,theIrgunattackedtheArabtownofJaffa,justsouthofTelAviv. The Arab Invasion - The govern-ments of neighboring Arab states were more reluctant than is generally assumed toenterthewaragainstIsrael,despitebellicosedeclarations.However,fearof

popular pres-sure combined with fear that other Arab states would gain an advantage over them by

fightinginPalestine,helpedswaySyria,JordanandEgypttogotowar.Whileoffi-ciallytheywerefightingaccordingtooneplan,infacttherewaslittlecoordinationbetween them. OnMay14,1948,theJewspro-claimedtheindependentStateofIsrael,and the British withdrew from Palestine. Inthefollowingdaysandweeks,neigh-boring Arab nations invaded Palestine andIsrael.Thefightingwasconductedinseveralbriefperiods,punctuatedbyceasefireagreements(trucesweredeclaredJune11toJuly8,1948andJuly19-October15,1948). TheArabLegionblockedconvoystobesieged Jewish Jerusalem from its forti-fiedpositionsinLatroun.JerusalemwastohavebeeninternationalizedaccordingtoUNGeneralAssemblyResolution181and UN General Assembly Resolution 303. The Jordanian positions at Latroun could not be overcome despite several bloodyattacks.Togetaroundit,theIsrae-lisultimatelybuilta“BurmaRoad’thatwascompletedinJuneof1948andbrokethe siege of Jerusalem. ThefirstceasefireandtheAltalena.Acease-fireinJunegaveallsidestimetoregroupandreorganize.Thismarked

acriticalstageinthefighting.TheArabside made a crucial error in accepting thetruce.TheIsraelistookadvantageofthecease-firetoreorganizeandrecruitand train soldiers. They were now able to bringinlargeshiploadsofarms,despitethetreatyterms,andtotrainandorganizearealfightingforceof60,000troops,giving them a real advantage in troops andarmamentforthefirsttime.ThetruceprobablysavedJerusalem,whichhadbeenonthebrinkofstarvation.Duringthelongtruce,theundergroundarmiesoftheHaganah,Palmah,IrgunandLehiwereamalgamatedintoasinglenationalfight-ingforce,theIsraelDefenseForce(IDF).The revisionist Irgun movement attempted to bring a shipload of arms into Israel onashipcalledtheAltalena,inordertomaintainaseparatefightingforce.IsraeliPMBenGurionorderedtheIDFtosinkthe Altalena when Irgun leader Menahem Begin refused to give up its cargo of arms. The Palestinians and Arabs did not use the time well. A large shipment of arms intendedforthePalestinianswasblockedby the IDF/Haganah and never reached Syria. Arab states were reluctant to com-mit more men to the struggle or to spend more money.

Saed & Linda Awwad

Thisserieshasexpandedduetothevastamountofinformation required to cover this subject matter. We

hope that it is a blessing to you and is also giving you a better understanding of the Middle East.

On May 14, 1948, the Jews proclaimed the indepen-dent State of Israel, and

the British withdrew from Palestine. In the following days and weeks, neighbor-ing Arab nations invaded

Palestine and Israel.

Ecclesiastes 11:5As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.


Seeing my father

by Jordan KoesterHave you ever

thought about what God lookslike?Thisisathoughtthat actually comes to my mindprettyoften.Now,IknowtheBiblesaysthat,“…in the image of God has God made man,”(Gen9:6)butwhatdoesthattrulylooklike?DoIreallylooklikeGod?Perhapsthequestionof“looks”isallwrong.Af-terall,“God is spirit”,(John4:24)right?Conceivably,ourlikenesstotheFatherissomething very different than what we perceive through our sense of sight. Perhaps this mysterious creator of ourshasadifferentformthantheuniqueshapeofahuman.EzekielandJohncould not even accurately describe God when they had an encounter with Him. Instead,theyusedwondrousobjectsoftheworldtocontrastHisglory.Thetruth is that there are no human words to accurately describe the countenance of God.

Now,withthatbeingestablishedwheredowe,aspeopleinthisworld,getaglimpseofwhoGodis?TheBiblecallsGod,“the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortal-ity and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see.” (2Timothy6:15-16)WiththistruthrecognizedtherearestillsomanysignsofwhoGodis.Paulsoeloquentlystates,“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen…”(Romans1:20)PauliswarningthosewhodenyGodthattheydohaveproofofwhoHeis.ThoughGod’squalitiesare“invisible”,HeisseenbymanthroughHiscreation.Thinkofthebeautyofthesunasitslidesbehindthemooninaneclipse.Takeintoaccounttheexacttiltoftheearthneededtocorrectly balance our atmosphere and way of life. Consider the dance of a male bird,mademorestunningthanthefemaleversion,asheseeksamate.Howaboutthewayagiantwavecrashesagainsttheshorewithakindofgroanfrombeingheldbackwithapreciselimit?Takealookintotheeyesofahusbandwhotakeshiswife’shandinmarriage.Spendsometimeandpaint,drawapicture,solveamathproblem,designclothes,cookadeliciousmealortellawondrousstory.Readapoem,haveacry,eatsomechocolates,smellsomeflowers,walkalongabeach,singasong,laughwithjoy,hugalovedone,shareyourheart,teachaconcept,sailaboat,playasportandwhenyoudostoptoreflectuponwhatisreallyatwork.Theanimalsofthisworlddon’tsolveequa-tions or lead symphonies. In the human heart there is such emotion and power beyondthatofanyrandomhappenstance.Thethingswedo,movieswewatchandstorieswetellspeakofwhoourGodreallyis.

Godisfoundintheinfiniteintricaciesofthisworldwhichareclearlyseenbyeveryone.Heisfoundwitheveryhumansense.Godisnotjustexperi-encedinthesewaysforthereisasenseofHisexistencethatisfeltbyHisSpirit.HaveyoueverwalkedintothehomeofastrongfamilywhoservesGod?Haveyousteppedfootintoachurchthatseemstopermeateasweetscentofworship?Theseplacesareaplaceofwarmth,welcoming,acceptanceandlove.Theycannotbeeasilyexplainedbecausetheyarefruitsofaspiritualnature.These“fruits”areofcoursethedefinedliteralfruitsoftheSpirit.(Galatians5:22-23)Whiletheseareexceptionalthingstoknowandstudy,theyneedtobematerial-izedinthenaturalrealmtobetterunderstandthetruepowerofGod.

TobetterexplainthisIsharethefollowingstory.MostofmylifeIheld hatred in my heart for my uncle who molested me at the very young age offive.For18yearsofmylifeIthoughtIwouldneverforgivehim.IfeltlikeIwouldonlybefilledwithrageupontheverysightofhim.However,acoupleyearsagoatamen’sretreatwewereaskedtoprayandseekGodforawordto“unlock”theweekend.MywordwasforgivenessandIknewrightawaywhathadtobedone.AttheretreatIspokeoutforgivenesstowardsmyuncle.Itwasnot even a month later that God led me to go to my uncle and forgive him face toface,onThanksgivingofalltimes.ThisisnotatallsomethingthatIcouldeverhavedoneonmyown.ItwasthepowerofGod,agiftfromGod,andthecomplete revelation of God’s presence in my life that brought the whole change about.

Well,IhavesharedafewwaysthatIhaveseenmyFatherinhopestospuryoutothinkofwaysthatyouhaveseenHimaswell.Mayyour eyes be open to His many wonders in Christ.

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by Andrew PateAreYourKidsAttemptingaHostileTakeover? Notthatdisciplineisbyanymeansjustaproblemforthesingleparent,buttherearespecialproblemsthatcanarisewhenamotherorfathermustfulfillbothrolestoparenttheirchildren.Herearesomepracticaltipsonhowto“retake”yourhouseifyouhaveseenanysignsthatyourchildrenaretryingtotakeoverthehome. Proverbs20:7reads,“Therighteousmanwalksinhisintegrity;hischildrenareblessedafterhim.”Also,Proverbs31:28(a)reads,“Herchildrenriseupandcallherblessed…” Thefirstthingthatweneedtorememberisthatwearecalledtoraiseholychil-dren.Whenwehavechildren,wearecalledtobetheirteachers,mentors,andwearetocorrectthemwhentheystepoutsidetheline.Wearenotcalledtobetheirfriends,ortheirBFF(That’sBestFriendsForever;forallusoutthereovertheageof25).Wearecalledtobetheirparent,andweneedtorealizethatthat’sokay.Manytimeswetrytobetheirfriendsinordertohelpthemthroughroughdivorces,ortheheart-breakinglossoftheirmotherorfather.Whileweshouldbefriendly,beingtheirfrienddoesn’twork;childrenneedstructureandconsistency.So,thefirstruleistobetheirparent,andthiswillhelpyouinestablishingandmaintainingaclearsetofexpectations. The second step in restoring order is to develop a list of rules and consequences. Whenyouaredevelopingyourrules,besuretobedetailedsothatthereisnoroomfor“creativethinking”onthepartofyourchild.Onceyouhavecreatedadetailedlistofrules,moveontotheconsequences.Taketheconsequencesseriously.Youwanttomakethepenaltyfordisobedienceuncomfortable,butnotsoseverethatyouwillnotbewillingtogothroughwithit.Forexample,youhaveexplainedtolittleSuziethatifshethrowsatempertantruminthemall,youaregoinghome.LittleSuzie,despiteyoursternwarning,throwsafitjustasyounoticeasaleatMacys.Idon’tknowhowtheyknow,butkidsseemtohaveaninnateabilitytodisobeyattheexactmomentthatyouwanttodosomething.Ifyouarenotwillingtogothroughwithathreat,donotmakeit.Notfollowingthroughwillshowinconsistencyandwillconfuseyourchil-dren.Toquicklyaddresstheissueofspankingasaneffectiveformofdiscipline,allowmetosharemyopinion.Asmackonthebottom,nottheback,legs,oranywhereelse,isaquickandeffectivewaytorefocusyouryoungerchildren.Asthesayinggoes,“Aspankingatsixavoidsprobationat16!”Iwouldsaythatastheygetolder,aswasthecasewithme,losingprivilegeshadamuchgreaterandlastingimpact. Thethirdstepistoprepareyourselffortheexecutionofthenewrules,andthenlaydownthelaw.Aswithanythingnewandundesired,youwillreceiveresistance.BepreparedformanymomentsduringthefirstcoupleofweekswhereyouwillbegiventhechancetodeveloptheFruitoftheSpirit,mainlypatience,inyourdailyactivities.Itisimportanttonotethatwhenyouareexplainingtherulesandconsequencestoyourchildren,thatyouexplaineverydetailsothattheywillfullyunderstandwhatisexpectedofthem. Finally,onceyouhaveestablishedthatyouaretheparent,haveestablishedtherulesandconsequences,andthattheyunderstandtherulesandyouhaveputthemintomotion,youmustbeconsistent.Ifyouarenotconsistent,nothingthatyouhaveworkedforinthepreviousthreestepswillmatter.Childrenneedstructure,boundariesandcorrection.Discipliningyourchildrendoesnotmakeyouabadparent,itmakesyoualovingone.Inordertodisciplineinlove,besurethatwhenthetimecomesforcorrectionitisnotdoneinanger.Ifneeded,takeamomentbetweentheactionandthediscipline to ensure that you are in the proper place to administer the correction. I hope that this blessed you and that it helps you in your daily challenges. Single parentsfacemanychallenges,andIwouldliketotakeamomentandinviteyoutoFamilies on Fire Ministries at Mountain View Christian Center. We meet every Sunday at9:00a.m.attheMVCCCampusinroom14.Youwillfindthatfamiliesfromeverywalkoflifeareheretoshareboththeirstrugglesandvictories.ThroughChristianfel-lowship and Biblical teachings we can face any challenge a parent or family may have andgainvictorythroughJesusChrist.Wecan’twaittomeetyou.TakecareandGodBless. MVCC is located at 5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley. Call 925-625-9570 for more info.

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by Will Byrns TryingtoexplaintheexistenceofGod and build a case for the defense of ourChristianfaith,knownas‘Apologet-ics’ in under 1000 words is not an easy task,buthereitis,shortandtothepoint. IwouldliketoapproachtheargumentfortheexistenceofGodintwoways;firstanalytical,andthenonamorepersonallevel. Howdoweknowthatseveralmembers of the Donner Party died crossing over the Sierra Nevada range in 1846?Weweren’tthere;wedidn’tseeit,sohowdoweknow?Wereaditinhistorybooksandbelieve,correct?Nowlet’sgoalittlefurtherbackintime.Howdoweknowthatin1492Columbussailedtheoceanblue?Well…again,historybooks,right?

Let’sgobackevenfurthertothefallofRomanEmpire,whichoccurredaround476AD,andthenbacktothetime when Julius Caesar was murdered in44BC.Yes,44BC,noargumenthereaboutthiseventtakingplacesuchalongtimeago.Historybooksalsoshowusthat in the year of 146 BC the Roman Empire ruled almost the entire region of theMediterranean.We’retalking146BC here. The Romans were an advanced andverywelleducatedcivilizationthat documented their time in history extensively.WecanlookatallofthedifferentRomanrulersthattookontherole of Caesar as leaders over the empire forhundredsofyears.Again,thesetruthsarewelldocumentedinhistorybooks. Why is it that we believe all of these things written about the Roman

Empireandwefinditso hard to believe that JesusChristwalkedtheearth at that same time period and performed all ofthosemiracles,signsand wonders that were also well documented in history?

The Bible is the oldesthistorybookthatwehaveasitgoesbackto the creation of our world. The Bible was written over the course of a 1600 year period by over 40 different authors. There arenocontradictions,noerrorsandnoonehas ever been able to disprove any of the writings in it.

The Bible documented each physical location that the children of Israel stayed when they wandered in the desert for forty years,during1491–1451BCbeforeentering the promise land. Why did the Bible,(whichisthewordofGod),gointoso much detail about people wandering inthedesert?Godwantedtostorybookreal people and real places that would last for generations to come. He wanted to give you living testimonies about the consequencesofsin,andtheawesometruthofhowHislove,forgivenessandmercy,presentsitselfinourdailylives.It’shistory…HisStory!

The Bible is not made up of perfect men and women that are to be worshipped and perceived as holier than thou. They arerealpeoplewhooncewalkedonthisearth with real problems. Their lives truly show how God changed their hearts and

mindstoreflectHisperfectlove. Time and time again the Bible reveals menandwomeninabrokenstateofdespairandwithouthope.KingDavidisremembered as a man after God’s own heart,butwasalsoamanwhowasfoundguilty of murder. He came to the Lord in repentance and pleaded for forgiveness. TheLordheardhiscries,forgavehimandthen continued to use him for His glory.

We’re all sinners and the message ofJesusChristasourLord,Saviorandredeemer of our sins are consistent throughouttheBible.Yearsago,beforeIknewtheLord,Ifoundmyselfinadarkplace,deepinsinandselfindulgence.Iwas living in my own little world and it all came crashing down on me for several months. I hated myself and no longer wantedtolive;Iwasreadytogiveupand had no hope. Just when I thought I could no longer bear the pain and agony oflookingintothemirroratmyselfIcriedouttotheLordforhelp.Remember,Ididnot believe in God at the time and I was 40 years old. For those of you who do notbelieveinGodatthismoment,letmetell you now that I’m just being real with

you. The Lord heard my prayers and God revealedtomethatHeisreal;thatHetrulydoesexist!Heforgavemeofmysinsand showed me how I could be made new in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17-Therefore,ifanyoneisinChrist,heisanewcreation;theoldhasgone,thenewhascome!

He showed me how to love myself again,thatmymindcouldbetransformed. Romans 12:2 - Do not conform any longertothepatternofthisworld,butbe transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approvewhatGod’swillis—hisgood,pleasing and perfect will.

Ihaveanewlifenow,filledwithlove,joypeace.Thatdoesn’tmeanthatI don’t have struggles or hardships that I stillhavetogothrough,Ido.ButGodisthere to go through them with me. God hasshownmehowtotrulyloveothers,even those that have hurt me. All this is possiblewhenyouknowJesusasyourpersonal Savior. If you are hurting and havenohope.Ifyouwantanewlife,alifeofjoy,peace,strengthandlove.Youhave the opportunity to accept Christ into your life right now. Say this prayer with me.“God,IknowthatIamasinner.IknowthatIdeservetheconsequencesofmysin.However,IamtrustinginJesusChrist as my Savior. I believe that His death and resurrection provided for my forgiveness.Teachmetowalkinyourways Lord. I surrender my life to you and I trust in Jesus alone as my personal Lord andSavior.ThankyouLord,forsavingmeandforgivingme!Amen!”

One man’s testimonyof God’s existence Why is it that we believe all of these

things written about the Roman Empire and we find it so hard to

believe that Jesus Christ walked the earth at that same time period and

performed all of those miracles, signs and wonders that were also well

documented in history?

~ Will Byrns

Does God Exist? You Better Believe It!


Pick up a copy today, and smile.

www.110mag.com

In a day and age when all you ever get are sensational head-lines and celebrities with their trashybadbehavior,it’snicetoknowthereisamagazinethat covers inspiring stories about real people and realissues in our communities.

Brentwood•Antioch•

Oakley•Discovery Bay•Pittsburg•

Great Pick Up Lines.

II0o

“FirstFamilyChurchismoving!June7thwillbeourfirstSunday@ournewfacility,[email protected]

@9and11am.ComejoinusforourfirstSundayinanewbuilding.WeareexcitedaboutthisdoorthatGodhasopenedtoFirstFamilyChurchandhope

that you will join us for this special occasion. You will hear a great bibli-cally-focused message and contemporary music that will move you towards

God’sheart.Formoreinformationcall925.706.1238oremailoffice@firstfamily.usWehopetoseeyouthere!”

FIRST FAMILY CHURCH IS

MOVING

Men of Visionand Purpose

Isaiah 40:26Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who

brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.

Daniel 2:47The king said to Daniel, “Surely your God is the God of gods and the

Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.”John 4:42

They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is

the Savior of the world.”

photo by Tim Vaughn

TheworshipteamwasonfirefortheLordatthelastMenofVisionandPurposemeetinginMay.Apowerfulsetofsongsincluded-“CanYouBelieveWhatTheLordHasDoneForMe,”“TheEnemiesCamp,”and“LookWhatTheLordHasDone.”EverysongthatnightspokeoftheawesomewaysthatGodhasmovedinourlives.Themengatheredforfellow-shipearlyandfeastedonRib-Eyesteaks. PastorJoeSeeleyopenedupthemeetingwiththesewordsoftruth,“Hopeyouallen-joyedthesteaks,butwhatwereallyneedisthemeatofGod’sword,Amen!” PastorKenSeeleywasthekeynotespeakerandbroughtoutthebeefintheBible.HereadthroughpassagesintheBookofMatthew,chapters5,6,and7.“ThemanIwasyesterdayforyouisnotenoughfortoday,”saidPastorKen.“ItrytogivetheLordmybesteachday.”Heencouragedmentostopthinkingsologicallyallthetimeandtothinkmoreonthe heavenly things. In his closing he referenced Matthew 7:24-27 and called the men to put God’swordintopracticebuildingtheirhousesupontherock.Hepreachedwithconvictionandinafirmvoicestated,“IcandoallthingsthroughChristwhostrengthensme.”Onceagain,menwereliftedup,encouragedandweredrawnclosertoJesus at the monthly gathering. Praise God.

Men of Vision and Purpose meet the third Monday of every month at Mountain View Chris-tian Center located at 5000 Amaryllis Street in Oakley, CA. For more info call 925-625-9570.

MEN... COME AND EXPERIENCE FREEDOMWITH MEN OF VISION AND PURPOSE.


Grocery Canned Outlet AntiochScoops / Play-n-café – Brentwood

Straw Hat – BrentwoodBlack Bear Diner – Oakley

Pulte Homes City of Oakley

Liberty Unifi ed School DistrictOakley Police Dept. / Sheriffs Dept. Williams Sanitation – Brentwood

Enchanted Parties – AntiochTrinity Christian School

Hanoum Estates – Oakley

Got-A-Party – Brentwood Pony – Up – Newcastle

United RentalsAhern – Stockton

Charley’s Subs – BrentwoodPhilly Cheesesteak – BrentwoodChuck E Cheese – Brentwood

Subway – OakleyMountain Mikes – Oakley

Gelato – BrentwoodPete’s Coffee – Brentwood

Food Maxx Brentwood

PLEASE SUPPORT THE BUSINESSES THAT GIVE TO OUR COMMUNITYLes Schwab – Oakley

Mini Pony ClubWells Fargo – Brentwood

Fremont Bank – BrentwoodHope for the heart - Hayward

Shepherd’s Kitchen – Brentwood Smart and Final – Brentwood

Costco – AntiochDellinger Concrete

Helping Hands MinistryAyer’s Easter Eggs

Offi ce Max

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for next year’s event please call 925-625-9570.

FROM MOUNTAIN VIEW CHRISTIAN CTR & TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLWE WISH TO THANK ALL OF THE SPONSORS THAT MADE THE

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA A BIG SUCCESS

JESUS CELEBRATION 2009Continued from cover story Over the past few years, the popularity and uniqueness of this event has spread all over the Bay Area and has attracted churches, musicians and people from as far away as San Francisco, San Jose, and Stockton. So what draws people to this event? These days everyone needs prayer whether it’s for themselves or loved ones Everyone in some way needs a hand up. This year’s focus is to teach people how to talk, listen and feel effective and empowered through prayer. Do you know a bet-ter way to experience a profound understanding of the wisdom and power of prayer than through a community grouped together in agreement as one? Bring your family and friends and enjoy all that this celebration offers. There will be informational ministry and business booths, and all sorts of music, worship, gospel, rap and contemporary. Mountain View Christian Cen-ter’s outreach program called “Helping Hands” will be distributing clothing for anyone in need. Children will be entertained with a play area and two puppet shows which will be shown in the morning and afternoon. Finally, don’t forget the “Free” community barbeque. If you want more information, desire to participate in this event, or want to register your ministry or business to set up an information booth, contact the organizational team at [email protected] or call 925-625-9570.

Matthew 18:19, (Amplifi ed)“Again” I tell you, if two of you on earth agree

(harmonize together, make a symphony to-gether)

about whatever (anything and everything) they may ask, it will come to pass and be done for

them by My Father in heaven.”

John 17:23 (NIV)I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let

the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have

loved me.


Les Schwab – Oakley Mini Pony Club

Wells Fargo – BrentwoodFremont Bank – Brentwood

Hope for the heart - HaywardShepherd’s Kitchen – Brentwood

Smart and Final – BrentwoodCostco – Antioch

Dellinger Concrete Helping Hands Ministry

Ayer’s Easter EggsOffi ce Max

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for next year’s event please call 925-625-9570.

FROM MOUNTAIN VIEW CHRISTIAN CTR & TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOLWE WISH TO THANK ALL OF THE SPONSORS THAT MADE THE

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA A BIG SUCCESS

So what’s the difference? Is there a real discrepancy between the Christian school and other private and public schools? Is it tuition…uniforms? Is it the ability to choose who can and can’t join the student body? …so called, good kids / bad kids? Is it even the presence or absence of regular prayer and Bible classes? What are the core distinguishing factors that defineaChristianeducation?Itallstartswiththe existence of the absolute, true God in the lifeofhumankind. Itallendswithdefiniteanswers about which people are in relation to Him and each other. Can it be that simple? Yes. The core distinctives are plain, but how they show themselves can get very complex. The educa-tional philosophy of Trinity Christian Schools is based on a God centered view of truth as presented by the inspired Scripture of God in the Bible. (2 Tim. 3:16) That being the case, there are absolute answers that we give our students, to the questions that they have about God, themselves, each other and all of life. Thereisadefinite“Yes”and“No”tochoicesand behaviors and a loving, just God who will keep us accountable. There is one who is higher than us, whose thoughts and ways are higher than ours, one who would cause us to wonder and explore in an adventure to know Him who is higher, going beyond the smartest and wisest of all people. An education without God centers on humans and ideas that humans come up with. Truth then becomes relative and every individual gets to decide what is right for him or herself. Without absolutes, real security goes out the door. Without a higher God, the human heart and mind hit a glass ceiling and get locked into systems where students have to settle for the best ideas and feelings that their human teachers can come up with. We believe that since God created and sustains all things through His only son Jesus Christ, the universe and all life are dynamically related to God and have the purpose of glorify-ing Him. (Col. 1:16) This is especially true of humankind who was made in God’s image, with the unique ability to know and communi-cate with God personally and voluntarily, being given authority over and responsibility for all other life on earth. (Gen. 1) Thus, it is necessary for humans to understand and view creation through faith in the truth of God’s word. We study history as record of God’s plans and pur-poseforhumanity,beingdirected,influenced

and controlled by Him. The good and the bad of the human tale are directly related to obedi-ence and disobedience to a Father God who displays His favor and disapproval of humans’ actions, a loving Father who makes a way for mercy and grace of His children. Every person who has ever existed has had a unique purpose in the story and plan written by Jesus to give prosperity, hope and a future. Science is the discovery of the purposeful design for all of creation. He amazingly and intricately ordered all of life. He gives it and takes it in His timing. He uses nature and story to describe Himself to us. We can know him personally. We can talk to Him and hear from Him. He gives us the ability to join Him in relationship, discovery, creating and the ordering of life. ThuswecanreflectwhoHeistoeachother.Without this faith, history and science are left for people alone to determine. The life of the student is as purposeful as their latest, greatest accomplishment alone. Life can be without meaningandsignificance,turningtodisparityand hopelessness. Science becomes relative to the last experiment and leaves explanations only to facts. We understand that humans are created with an ability to make choices. Due to the fact that the original humans chose sin over God’s instructions, human nature became sin-ful, making humans unable to relate to or honor GodwithoutthesacrificeofJesusChrist.Itisthrough faith in Jesus that humans are saved from this condition (2 Tim. 3:15). By receiving Jesus Christ and believing in His name, humans have the right to become children of God (John 1:12). For, in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Col. 2:3) Thus we see the human goal as being transformed into Christ-like character and works by the power of God’s Holy Spirit unto eternity in God’s Kingdom. Students then must be discipled. We have got to give them instruction and not just leave them to their own devices, setting them up to face the lasting negative consequences to their wrong choices. We must be actively teaching them how to live right because there is a right way to live. Through Jesus they can gain forgiveness and restoration to right living and right relationships with each other. They can be blessed and be a blessing to our world. We know that they will make wrong choices and we support them in learning from their wrong and choosing right. They can look, sound and

act like l o v e (Jesus) to those around t h e m . W i t h -out this faith in e d u c a -tion students are viewed as intrinsically good. If they are intrinsically good, they can be left alone to their own decisions, unsupervised and unchecked, without accountability. I think we can just turn on the news and see all of the ways how unchecked, undisciplined behavior is destroying our children. Life can be lived out with overwhelming unforgivable guilt and humans become free from the responsibility of the effects that their actions have on others. We are aware that it is by the Holy Spirit that humans have the power to live their pur-pose, do the supernatural works of Jesus, to love and to be self-disciplined. (2 Tim. 1:7, 2 Peter 1:3-4) We identify the Holy Spirit as the guide into all truth (John 16:12) and the trans-mitter of God’s wisdom. (1Cor. 2:6-16) Due to the fact that God has a purpose for every one of us and His ways are higher than ours, life can be impossible for us to do it right on our own; but we don’t have to. We have natural support from each other and supernatural support from the power of an all powerful God, through the Holy Spirit by the authority of Jesus Christ. We can be guided to truth and use His wis-dom. Our students are given the strength to overcome anything they need through Jesus, who is their strength. Hope becomes played out and victories are seen. Students without the power of Jesus through the Holy Spirit, loose hope and give up when they realize that in certain circumstances, their best is not good enough. Their most reliable sources of wisdom and power and support become other human advice (lower than God’s), money, intimidation or other things that make them feel on top for the moment. The authority for such an education comes both from God’s commandment that children betaughttoloveGodandplaceHimfirstintheir lives and also that parents are responsible for the total education and training of their chil-dren. (Deut. 6:6-9, Psalm 78:1-8, Eph. 6:1-4) At Trinity Christian Schools the process of edu-

cation is seen as a means used by the Holy Spirit to bring students into fellowship with God. Trinity Christian Schools are then able to work in partnership with families to provide this education. Parents must take responsibility for their children’s whole education. We are here to work with them and step up next to them in it, not to

totally do it for them. This gives parents the rewards of training up their children and invest-ing in how their children learn and grow. Other educational systems are now being given all authority and responsibility of children over to educators, disconnecting the family and alienating parents and children. We realize that students learn best in a safe, structured and loving environment where their unique God-given personalities and abili-ties are cherished and challenged, so that they mayfulfillGod’stotalpurposefortheirlivesboth personally and universally. By faith, we strive to view our students in the way that God sees them, for with Him nothing is impossible. (Luke 1:37) We view it as a necessity for stu-dents to interact with, be encouraged by, and to be taught through parent, teacher and peer role models. We recognize that it is important for students to live and work in Christian unity at home, in the church and in changing secular society, being able to effectively communicate and relate with others. (1 Cor. 12:12) We also see it as our duty to train our students to give their lives in love and service to God and to others for the sake of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and growing the Kingdom of God. (Mark 16:15)You are the parents of your children. Choose wisely for your kids. Wherever they go, know that the environment that they learn and grow in will mold hearts, minds, spirits, bodies and futures. If your family exists without God, we urge you to explore Him, consider a life with and without Him, and then make an informed choice. If your child’s education exists without God, we urge you to take responsibility for ensuring that it doesn’t. That means you have gottostartteaching.Youarethefirstandmostinfluential teacher your kidswill ever have.Your child’s true life depends on it.

Top right - Christian Seeley proudly displays the Second Grade Archangels banner. Below - Teachers Am-ber Urias and Cathy Humphrey with the ‘First and the Furious’ fi rst grade banner.

Trinity Christian School

A School with a higher calling

By Geannine Mijares


YWOW Your Defining Moment in Life

Women of WorthWomen of Worth

Author Gina Dacus

Women of Worth Worship Team -

L to R, Pastor KimCarol Mijares,Jodi Burton,

Sondra Smith and Pam Gebrosky

Photo’s Courtesy: Juanita DellingerBelow- L to R, Shelby Seeley and Pastor Kim Moreno

The Irresistible Woman Of God By Pastor Kim Thereisnorelationshipaladycanexperiencethatismorefulfillingthantherela-tionship that exists between her and her Lord. It is being held in His everlasting arms that brings about healing from the damages that she has incurred in her pursuit of every otherrelationship.InHisarms,shefindsrestoration.Therewillbetimeswhenshefeels like a little girl, and in His presence she will climb into the lap of a loving father whose sound wisdom, counsel, and consistent love will insulate her from the adversary whomshemustfight.Herfatherbecomesherprotector.HeprotectsherbyHisspirit.He counsels her by His Word. He forgives her through His blood and she is safe in His arms. He is the solace that heals the feminine soul and renews her mind. He is the miss-ing ingredient that adds validity to every other pursuit of her life. If she gains every-thing and fails to know Him, she has nothing at all. His love for her is so pure that she willfindnootherlikeit.Itisnotpredicateduponherperformanceorherappearanceor her intellectual capacity. He has loved her before she was formed in the womb of her mother. His love is holy. It becomes the foundation that her character is built upon. The “Irresistible Woman” who knows the love of God is not desperate for the love of men because in His arms she has already found that for which her soul thirsts. Now, this isnottosaythathavingChristwillfulfilleveryvoidthatshehasasawoman.Buthersatisfaction in His presence is so complete that it removes her far away from the desper-ateneedforaffectionandaffirmationthatleadsotherwomentogropeandgraspblindlyin the night. She can run to Him in every crisis and know that He will not fail her, He will not desert her, He will not leave her, and He will not change. Strangely, women seem to possess some special ability to touch the heart of God. It is so powerful that Jeremiah, the ‘Weeping Prophet,’ who was known to be a man of great compassion, still found himself needing the intercessory power of women to touch the heart of God. He said, “Send for the women of mourning and let them take up a wailing” (Jeremiah 9:17). It’s as if he knows God’s ears are open to the cry of distressed women. It is not that God favors women over men, but the Lord looks out for his daughters and takes care of their needs. Jesus promises, “If you believe on me as the scripturehassaid,thenoutofyourbellyshallflowriversoflivingwater”(John7:38).Ithen challenge you, in accordance of His word, to believe in Him. You have believed in others and have been disappointed. You have believed in others and have been rejected. But this is a promise from a man who cannot lie. The challenge is for the woman to believe in Him. If you will, there will be no drought in your heart, no dryness in your spirit, and no emptiness in your life, for God will quench your thirst with living water. There is no feeling as demanding as the thirst for water. Our bodies cannot do without water. Thirst is an incessant craving from the innermost parts of our being that willfindfulfillmentonlyaswelifttoourmouthsthecoolingflowofrefreshingwaterand drink deeply of it. It is this renewing, resuscitating feeling that God has promised the woman who believes in Him. Now, there are many women who have tried to quench their thirst in entrepreneurial pursuits, working feverishly to attain a position of power andfinancialgain.Therearemanywomenwhosebeautyandcurvaceousbodieshaveallowed them to choose any man whom they would like. They have jumped from bed tobedandfromarmtoarmtryingtofindsatisfactioninsexualengagements.Thereareeventhoseladieswhoaresoromanticallyinclinedthat,althoughtheyfledfromthetemptations of promiscuity, they were vulnerable to any sign of affection to them from

WOW CONFERENCE-2009

IrresistibleWomen of God

At the Marriot Courtyard Hotel in San Francisco JUNE 18-20, 2009 Thursday-Friday-Saturday

Conference Fees: 3-Day Conference (No Hotel Stay) —

$63.00 for Thursday, Friday & Saturday

One-Day Conference — $21.00 a day

3-Day Hotel Stay Conference —2 per Room * $215.00 Per Lady/ 4 per Room * $125.00 Per Lady

(The required deposit due is half the price of the option picked)

a male suitor. But there is something that every wise woman must understand. There is no hu-man relationship that can quench the thirst of the soul like the touch of God. If you have been searching all your life for something that seems to evade you, if you have diligently pursued success and all of its many trappings and still there is an aching inside that reminds you something is missing, I would like to recommend the only thirst quencher that can satisfy the longing of the human soul, His name is Jesus. His arms are stretched wide, His voice is calm, His wisdom is stable, His counsel is sure and He will hold you through the night.

Assistant Pastor, Kim Moreno - 5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley, CA 94561Phone: 925-625-9570 Ext.103 Fax: 925-625-9003

By Gina DacusYoung Women of Worth (YWOW) – Theparkinglotwasoverflowingandthe energy from the atmosphere spilled over onto O’Hara and Empire. The steady streams of cars were headed to YWOW, the teenage version of Women of Worth. My daughter and I found ourselves skipping towards the entrance in anticipation of the evening. There’s just something pow-erful that takes place when young people, especially our young ladies, come out to church with the intent of praise, worship and fellowship -- no texting, but actual talking. The idea that our teenage girls can come together with the intent of hanging out in the name of Jesus felt amazing. It has become more than an evening out for teens; it is a movement that is spreading across the Delta Region. The speaker for the evening was our very own Shelby Seeley. She opened up by talkingtotheteensaboutdefiningmomentsin life. While some of the young ladies may nothaveexperiencedadefiningmoment,Shelby reminded them that it would be unavoidable. There would be some point in their lives that each girl would be faced with a question that could completely change the direction of her life. She challenged each member of the audience to think about her

definingmomentinlife.Herpictorialmodelfor the evening was the infamous Esther. In biblical times, Esther experienced her definingmomentwhenshepartookinwhatmimics a modern day beauty pageant. Even after her transition to queen, Esther was faced with revealing her true identity and possibly risking losing it all. Yet even in her adversity, Esther was willing to stand up boldly and say, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). As we all know, God honored the courageous choice that Esther made during herdefiningmomentandgrantedherfavor;the rest is history. As Shelby Seeley stated, “When you are walking right with God and being obedient, He will give you favor with men and Him. Stand up and know who you are. You’ll never be able to risk it all until you know that.” Some may think that the type of chal-lenge Esther faced was restricted to biblical times. Yet, it is in this day and this season, God is looking for Esther’s in the world. Who is willing to stand up in the midst of peer pressure? Who is willing to say no when the crew is saying yes? Who is will-ing to break out of a group of conformity in ordertofulfillthedefiningmomentpredes-tined to occur. Shelby challenged our teens by stating, “Wake up daughters of God and

take your rightful place. “ The adults in the audience were not left out of the equation. She exhorted the mothers by stating, “Moth-ers,maybeyourdefiningmomentislyingallnight with your daughters and praying for their very souls. The enemy has been silenc-ing our mothers and lulling our daughters to sleep. “ As we closed the evening out, each person left with an assignment. Whether we weretoprepareforourdefiningmomentorpray over those that would have them, the expectationoffulfillingGod’spurposewasapparent. As Shelby stated, “You are alive todayinordertofulfillthepurposeofGodin this generation”.

http://ginadacus.typepad.com/


Senior MomentsDoes God Really Exist?

By Priscilla Stanley For once, wouldn’t you love to simply be shown the evidence for God’s existence? No one saying, “You just have to believe.” Butfirstconsiderthis.Ifapersonopposes the possibility of there being a God, then any evidence can be explained away. If someone refuses to believe that our technology could ever bring about the ability to talk all over the world on a small phonethatfitsinapocket.Theyseeandhear it but it is still beyond their compre-hension how it is possible, let alone how it works. Many don’t realize that the reason the topic of God weighs so heavily on their mind, is because God is pressing the issue. God wants to be known. He created us with the intention that we would know him. He has surrounded us with evidence of himself and he keeps the question of his existence before us. It is as if they can’t escape thinking about the possibility of God. It might be that the underlying rea-son they are bothered by people believing in God is because God is actively pursu-ing them. If you look throughout the Bible, Mo-ses,DanielandIsaiahallidentifiedthem-selves as teachers or prophets. None of them ever claimed to be equal to God; but, Jesus did. That is what sets Jesus apart from all the others. He said God exists and you’re looking at him. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If

you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” John 14:6-7 Jesus claimed attributes belong-ing only to God: to be able to forgive people of their sin, free them from habits of sin, give people a more abundant life and give them eter-nal life in heaven. Unlike other teachers who focused people on their words, Jesus pointed people to himself. “ He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father but through me. You willseekmeandfindmewhenyouseekme with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13 I experienced something when I was nine years old that showed me that God does exist and his son, Jesus Christ came to free us if we believe. I had just come out of church and was crossing the street to enter the park which was a short cut home. As I entered, I got a vision which I didn’t quite understand and a feel-ing of apprehension. Being a child that lovedflowersandholdingbeesIwouldnormally be doing just that as I walked through the park. But something made me aware of an impending problem. I didn’t understand what it was and what made me aware of it. Halfway through the park I

came upon a man sitting on a park bench doing an illicit act. He tried to get me to come to him but instead I ran the three blocks home. If it were

not for my vision and apprehension that something was going to happen I would havebeenlookingattheflowersandcatching bees. I would have been an open target for this predator. That night as I prayed I became aware that it was God who warned me. From that day to today I know God, Jesus Christ His son and the Holy Spirit are with me always. God sent his only son, Jesus Christ who died for us so we could be forgiven. Through Jesus you see God providing a way for us to have a relationship with Him. Jesus proves a divine heart of love, meeting our needs, drawing us to himself. Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, he offers us a new life today. We can be forgiven, fully accepted by God and loved by God. This is your decision, to let God enter your life or not. But if you want to be forgiven by God and come into a relation-ship with him, you can do so right now by asking him to forgive you and come into

your life. If you want to do this, but aren’t sure how to put it into words, this may help: “Jesus, thank you for dying for my sins. You know my life and that I need to be forgiven. I ask you to forgive me and come into my life. I want to know you. I want you in my life. Thank you that you want a relationship with me.” If God exists, then we are accountable to Him for our actions. If God does not exist, then we can do whatever we want without having to worry about God judg-ing us. That is why many of those who deny the existence of God cling strongly to their belief. The very fact that some attempt to disprove His existence is in fact an argument for His existence. How do we know God exists? As Christians, we know God exists because we speak to Him every day. We do not audibly hear Him speaking to us, but we sense His presence, we know His love, we desire His grace. Things have occurred in our lives that have no possible explanation other than God. God has so miraculously saved us and changed our lives that we cannot help but acknowledge and praise Him.

But if you want to be for-given by God and come into a relationship with him, you can do so right

now by asking him to forgive you and come into

your life. ~ Priscilla Stanley


OPEN: Sunday 7:45am—1pmWednesday 5:30pm—9pm

Also open before and after most MVCC functions & special events.Come enjoy our full service coffee bar serving mochas, lattes and espresso drinks.

Grab a candy bar or fresh baked pastry to complement your coffee. Then browse our books, clothing and gifts in the bookstore.

~Coming Soon~ A Night Out hosted by Holy Grounds

Holy Grounds will be hosting a fun safe alternative to going out on a night on the town. We will transform into a lounge complete with comfy seats, coffee bar and snack shop. From karaoke to open mic night, A Night Out is sure to be fun for all

ages. Join us for fun, friends and fellowship. Dates and times to be announced.

5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley, CA

MOUNTAIN VIEW CHRISTIAN CENTER

Restaurants

By Jessie Christina Shanks Is there a Divine being truly overseeing the universe as we know it? And if so, how involved in our lives is this Divine being? Alicia Britt Chole does not join in the age old debates on this topic, but rather challenges the very foundation from which these questionshavearisenin‘FindinganUnseenGod.’Andyouwon’tfindanydryphiloso-phies or grandiose theories within the pages of this book. This is palpable, real life, and completelygenuine.ThisisthefirsttimeIhavecomeacrossanon-Atheistearnestlyvalidating Atheistic beliefs, I would say rare indeed. Chole’s depth of insight and ap-proach left me thinking, “huh, I’ve never thought of it in that way before.” Not only was the read intellectually stimulating, but personally moving. Chole shares her jour-ney, an Atheist not looking for a Divine being, who’s life becomes abruptly interrupted in one day. This is a story you want to read and will more than likely never forget! Chole makes use of every space, leaving out dull repetition and prolonged points. The 160 some page book is comprised with purpose behind every word and broken down into pleasantly short chapters. I personally was kept up during the night, unable to resist starting a new chapter. Chole offers more than a fresh perspective or new idea that only fades with the sun. What she respectively submits before you will make it clear if your belief system is livable. Placing my own beliefs next to her test was both terrifying and assuring. She speaks as one with experience, as she has lived from vary-ing places across the spectrum of world beliefs. Her story telling abilities are captivat-ing, sharing applicable details in unreservedly honest fashion. I have walked away from this book more informed, challenged, and wanting to read it all over again! Truth is dead. God never lived. Life is fi lled with pain. Death is the end of life. These beliefs formed Alicia Britt Chole’s worldview as a young woman. “I sincere-ly believed that there was no God,” she says. “As a young Atheist, I simply considered myself a realist who preferred unanswered questions over fairy tales.” Then one day, without warning, Alicia’s Atheistic worldview was shattered. Creatively written, Finding an Unseen God opens a window into Alicia’s surprising spiritual journey. With warmth, intellect, and compassion, Alicia invites us to carefully consider what we believe and do not believe, while she paints a vivid portrait of a God who relentlessly pursues even those who deny him. Four sample chapters, a free discussion guide and the video trailer for Finding an Unseen God: Refl ections of a Former Atheist are available at www.truthportraits.com

ALICIA BRITT CHOLE

BOOK REVIEWSFinding an

UnseenGod

Families on Fire is having the Fourth of July Freedom Celebration at Veteran’s Park on Saturday July 4th. There will be a color guard, a pie bake off, games, B-B-Q, volleyball, bocce ball, horseshoes, and swim-ming. The time is from 11 am until 4 pm. The tickets are $8 for swim-ming and admission, or $5 for admission to the B-B-Q only. Open to the public, everyone’s welcome to come join us for Food, Fel-lowship and Fun! For tickets call Colter Andersen at 925-408-6261.

FAMILY BBQ FOR EVERYONE -COME JOIN IN ON THE FUN

JULY 4TH AT VETERAN’S PARK (Brentwood)

Romans 1:20For since the creation of the world God’s invisible

qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made,

so that men are without excuse.


SPORTSTHE COACH’SCLIPBOARD

by Coach Mike Mother’s Day has passed, and we’re coming up fast on Father’s Day. But, did you know about the millions of “other par-ents” out there? I’m talking about coaches. You know, those folks who have no spare time of their own because they’re teaching your sons and daughters how to run, swim, dive, shoot, catch, hit, score, and hopefully a whole gym-bag full of life lessons! Most coaches do a heck of a job. Granted, a few might stink, but that’s rare. Next to a parent, and possibly a youth pas-tor, there may never be another person who impacts a young boy or girl’s life, helps shape their future, and helps them mold their hopes and dreams... like a coach. And sometimes we have to be the parents... when the parents won’t. When I think back on the many coaches I’ve learned from, a few stand out. One was Dick Lawrence, who took my high school track team to a NJ state title, way back in 19... well, let’s just say a long time ago. He was “old school,” yet compas-sionate and caring, and in every way a great coach. When he moved away, a group of us piled into my Ford Falcon and drove hours up the Garden State Parkway to see him the next year, just to stay in touch. We loved that guy, and we realized he loved us as well. I’ll never forget the many times Coach Law-rence drove me home from practice, clearly out of his way, as he would do for some kids

on our team who lived as far as 20 miles away. It was Coach Lawrence who drove me to the ER for X-rays after I sprained my ankle at a track meet. So now, every time I drive a player home after practice, or to a game, whose parents may be working or busy, I think of Coach Lawrence... and I smile. Fast forward years later. Right down the street at De LaSalle High School, in Con-cord,you’llfindoneofthetophighschoolbasketball coaches in the United States. Frank Allocco Sr. has built De LaSalle into a nationally ranked basketball powerhouse the old-fashioned way, with a strong emphasis on fundamentals and character. He’s won 3 state titles, 15 league titles, and has been Na-tional High School Coach of the Year. He’s also sent many student-athletes on to play successfully at the college level. Although I know Coach Allocco well, last year I had the privilege of sitting in the audience at a Nike Coaching Clinic with colleagues from all over America while Frank laid out his

coaching philosophy, a philosophy that has earned him a winning percentage near 90% and close to 500 high school victories to date. The crowd leaned in as Frank tossed out a single sentence: “It’s not about X’s and O’s, it’s about Johnnies and Joes.” You could’ve heard a pin drop.

3,000 coaches had paid to learn the X’s and O’s of building a successful team from one of the most successful coaches in America, and he wasn’t talking about plays! Instead, he was talking about the players – those boys and girls, young men and women, who we, as coaches, have for only a short time, but whose lives we will forever impact. Speak with Frank Allocco a bit more and you’llalsofindheisamanoffaithwhoregards coaching as a ministry – a ministry of service to others. Think about it. We coaches are in ministry. Each of us who coaches has an opportunity, and a duty, to set a Christ-like example in all that we do, on the court and off. We are those “other parents,” the ones our athletes see sometimes more than their own parents during the season. It’s both a

powerful and wonderful responsibility. The best coaches among us will embrace that re-sponsibility head-on, and live out a ministry of coaching, like Frank Allocco does, and as Dick Lawrence did years before. What example do your players see?

PLAYBOOK – SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES: “Therefore, be imitators of God... Walk in love, as the Messiah also loved us and gave Himself for us...” Ephesians 5:1-2 “Make your own attitude that of Jesus Christ...” Philippians 2:5 “We glory in tribulations also: know-ing that tribulation develops patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.” Romans 5: 3-4GAMEPLAN: Coaches,makeanefforttoreflectChrist’s love and attitude toward others in all youdoasacoach.Remembertofindreasonsfor hope, in the face of defeat and struggle, and to have patience, for His glory. You and your players will be the big winners. Never forget that your are, indeed, “the other parents.” And parents, next time you see that coach working with your son or daughter, thank him or her for helping to develop your child into what he or she will someday be. Coach Mike Ketchel can be reached at 925-392-3835 or email: [email protected].

by Keoni Clifford “Hard work beats talent, when tal-ent fails to work hard”, was the motto for 2008-2009 U14 Boys, YGFC Alliance, Class 1 competition soccer team from East Diablo United Soccer Club. All the conditioning, (300 yard shut-tles, sprints, speed work). All the strength training,(push ups, sit ups, lunges and the boys favorite exercise, squat jumps!). All the core exercises, the technical and tactical training, every one of these workouts played a huge role in the success that the team had this season, culminated by being crowned NorCal State Champions on May 9th, 2009. YGFC defeated the PAC Tigers 3-2 in Manteca. State Champions!!! My, that has a wonderful ring to it, doesn’t it? Especially if it pertains to you. But there is one very important workout I would like to talk about. Frankly, it continues to be the most vital part of our daily routine. I’m talking about prayer. The championship and the huge trophy was just icing on the cake that God so kindly blessed us with because He can. However the journey will always be remembered as a season of eternal treasures, a crown, trophy if you will, of hope and faith. Now, that doesn’t mean that everything went as smooth as silk or was absolutely perfect at all times, because it wasn’t. That’s what made the journey so beautiful. Being able to watch eighteen boys grow to become young men before my very eyes, some with similar backgrounds, but still indi-viduals who dealt with similar issues differ-ently has been a tremendous blessing in my life. A lot of these young men remind me of me. I’m able to relate to them on many levels and I thank God for that. But these young men do not just let anyone get close to them. You see, I had to earn their respect before I could demand respect from them. I had to humblemyselffirst.Isn’titinterestingthatthe world sees it differently? The world says

that “ I’m a grown up, I’m the man and these boys will respect me because I’m the adult”. But we forget that even our Lord, Jesus Christ, washed the feet of his disciples. Who do we think we are? Are we greater than he? I’ve learned that it doesn’t make me less of a man to say I’m sorry or to admit when I’m wrong, a message that I convey to these young men constantly. But I also tell them that at some point in your life you are going to wake up one day and realize that you have become a man, you have responsibilities, a job, car payment, rent or mortgage, children, etc…, and that it is important to take the sound advice that their parents have for them right now, which I reinforce constantly with them, and take it to heart. Because if you think that the rules your parents have for you are unbearable and you lash out in anger, unable to show self-control, how will you react when your boss at work enforces rules and regulations that you don’t agree with. Remember, you have more than just yourself to think about, you have responsibilities. But the most important advice that I can person-ally give them is the power of prayer. Now we pray at practice, games and anytime anyone needs prayer for themselves, their family and their friends. You see, all I have to do is plant the seed and keep water-ing it. It will grow. My bible says to “train up your children in the ways of the Lord so when they get older they will not depart from it”. I believe the word of God. It will not return void. This coming season’s motto is “Talent is Never Enough”. It is a concept from the author John Maxwell who proclaims that: “While talent is important, there are mil-lions of talented people who have ability but never get to use it and never reach their po-tential because they lack the characteristics that separate successful people and unsuc-cessful people. Those who neglect to make

the right choices to release and maximize their talent continually under-perform. These choices may be as simple as being punctual, giving effort, showing patience, or being unself-ish. None of these choices require talent but they sure enhance talent.” Below is a list of those choices and characteristics that enhance a person’s talent and advances them in life. I recently read this to my parents and players to instill a perseverance and an unrelenting passion to pursue the intangible that is eternal and everlasting, which will transcend the tangible, the physical. 1) Belief lifts your talent 2) Passion energizes your tal-ent 3) Initiative activates your talent 4) Focus directs your talent 5) Preparation positions your talent 6) Practice sharpens your talent 7) Perseverance sustains your talent 8) Cour-age tests your talent 9) Teachability expands your talent 10) Character protects your talent 11)Relationshipsinfluenceyourtalent12)Responsibility strengthens your talent 13) Lastly, “Teamwork multiplies your talent.” Just think if one of these young men comes to understand that their talent alone is not enough and it becomes contagious and it spreadslikeawildfirethroughoutourteam.Can you imagine if almost forty people, which includes players, parents and staff on our team, grasped this concept and bonded together to teach our children the aforemen-tioned choices and characteristics daily. My bible says that,” one can put a thousand to flight,twocanputten-thousand.”Isthereanyone out there who would like to tackle the spiritual multiplicity on forty people coming together; like-minded “in the name of Jesus”. Can you imagine if it touched a whole community, a city, how about a state? Even better, a nation and better still, the

world. You see, we have to start somewhere. We cannot continue to watch from the side-lines. We have to get in the game. We have to pray with our children and our family daily. It starts at home. Discipline and respect for others starts at home. Finally, the greatest moment of the season for me this past year was when we weregettingreadytoplayasemi-finalmatchat one of the tournaments we entered and I got sidetracked on the time. Well the referee blew the whistle because he wanted to start the game and we always pray before the game. Being pressed for time, I rattled off the starting line up and told everyone to “get to your positions”. I started to walk off the fieldandhadalmostreachedthesidelinewhen I suddenly became aware that I was alone. You see, there was a loud shout from thecenterofthefieldandIturnedaroundto face it. There was our team waiting at mid-fieldandIthoughttomyself,“Whattheheck are they doing?” The team shouted,” Hey, Coach aren’t you going to pray for us!” I looked up and pointed to the sky and said to God, “You Good, all the time!” I ran out tothecenterofthefield,weprayedandgaveglory to God; and the rest as they say, “is history.”

COACHES – THE OTHER PARENTS

State Champs humbly reveal - Talent is Never Enough

State Champs- Young Guns Football Club (YGFC) Alliance

Frank AlloccoRemember to fi nd

reasons for hope, in the face of defeat and

struggle, and to have pa-tience, for His glory.

~ Mike Ketchel

John 1:1-5The Word Became Flesh In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.


Rejoyce Christian CenterPr. Kenny Ogunfunmi

Sunday Service 10:30 AM 90 Village Dr.

Brentwood 94513925-628-5589 - 925-513-4535 fax

[email protected] - email

Crossroads Christian CenterHeritage High-Multipurpose Rm.

101 American Ave. Brentwood 925-516-7795Sunday Service 10:30amTuesday Bible Study 7pmPastor Andrew G. Miley

Destiny Christian CenterBishop Gregory Bell

Sunday 10:30am Service Wed Worship & Study 7:30pm

132 O’Hara Av. Oakley925-679-1361

Mountain View Christian Center

5000 Amaryllis Oakley Ca 94561925-625-9570

SERVICESSundays 9am & 10:45am

Sundays 5:00pm Spanish - Bilingual Wednesdays 7pm

Soldiers in Christ - Jr. High Wed 7pm Souled Out - High sch. Wed 7pm

Gateway Church Pastor Joe & Danille Hernandez

Sundays 10AMLife Groups

Youth and Kids Ministry847 Arnold Dr.

Martinez, CA 94553 925.335.9519

www.gatewaychurch.us

Live Oak Community Christian Center

5471 Live Oak Av. Oakley925-625-2556

Worship Services Sunday 10amMarriage Bible Study Mon 7:30pm

Kingdom Men Tuesday 7:30pmLadies Bible Study Tue 7:30pm

Youth Group Wed 7:00pmHome Cell Groups Fri 7:30pmSaturday Morning prayer 8am

Faith Worship CenterAnthony E. Blackman, Sr. Pastor

2170 Harbor St. Pittsburg, CA 94565 Service - Sundays 10:00am

Wednesdays 7:00pm925-427-0976

Church on the Rock Pastor Lin Goodyear9:30am Traditional

11:00am Contemporary50 Walton Lane (off Lone Tree)

Antioch, CA 94509 925-706-2842

The Light MinistriesPastor Larry Roper 405 West 6th Street

Antioch, CA 94509 925-778-1639

Mariner’s ChurchByron Middle School Gym 9 am

Children/Teen Sun Sch. & Nursery 9:15am Adult Sunday School ~ 10:30 am

High School “Hang Time” ~ 6:30 pm Tue.Bible Study ~ 10 am Wednesdays

Pastor Jim Kraft ~ 634-0800Office:5545DrakesCt.,DiscoveryBay

The Orchard Church Heritage High School Theater101 American Ave Brentwood

Service at 10am Sundays Pastor Steve

(925) 325-5020theorchardchurch.com

Our Father’s HouseApostle Larry Johnson

2980RailroadAve,2ndfloorPittsburg, CA 925-457-3358

Fridays 7 pm, Sundays @ 10 am & 5 pm

Grace Bible Fellowship Pastor Kirkland Smith

Sunday 8am & 11:15am Tues 7pm

Prayer Wed 6am 913 Sunset Dr. Antioch,

CA 94509 925-522-2017

The Carpenter’s Shop Int’lPrs. Jerry and Penny Slavens

P.O. Box 2083Antioch, CA 94531

925-778-0800925-778-0804 fax

[email protected]

Saturday Service 11am - 1pm

If you are interested in

having your church listed on the

Worship services page, call Ron or

Pat Reagan at 925-240-1242

Royal Family Kids Camp4725 Evora Rd.Concord, CA

www.rfkcconcord.com Rick Fuller, Director 925.207.7240

Echo of Christ Ministries For moreinfoontheconflictintheMiddle

East - Call 866-317-3626 www.echoofchrist.org

Birthright of BrentwoodHelping pregnant women facing

personal crisis. Call 925-634-1275 with your tax

deductible contribution.

Calvary FellowshipPastor Dave Perata

Discovery Bay Elementary School

SundayService10:00AM1700 Willow Lake Road

925.626.3525 Mid week Bible Study

Thursday 7PM 1555 River Lake Road in Discovery Bay

School of Theology5000 Amaryllis St. Oakley

Enroll Now and start studying the Word of God-

Contact Pastor Tyrone @ 925-625-9570

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church

500 Fairview Ave BrentwoodSaturday Vigil 5:00, 6:30[sp]

Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00 and 12:30Spanish 10:45 and 2:00 pm

Daily 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM925-634-4156

email: [email protected]

Bread of Life Community ChurchRev. Edward L. Riley

1923 Delta Road, Knightsen 925-625-9081 - www.bolcc.net

email: [email protected]

Minister Travis MozekeGrace Bible Fellowship

Overcomers 925.727.8788ADVERTISING SPONSORED BY

CONTRA COSTA MINISTERS CONFERENCE

Calvary Chapel CrossroadsPr. John Snoderly

1771 Vineyard Dr., AntiochPhone 925-778-2011

Services: Sundays at 10 AMBible Study: Wednesdays at 7 PM

www.cccrossroads.orgemail: [email protected]

New Lifeline Ministries4246 Empire Ave. Oakley

Sunday service 10am Wed. Bible Study 7:30pm

925-625-1982

His Presence Christian Worship Center Location: Hilton Concord

1970 Diamond Blvd 94520Sunday’s 10:00am starting

Tuesday bible study 7:30 pm Mail to: 1145 2nd St. Ste A #161

Brentwood, CA 94513 ph# 925-265-2070

Helping Hands Food & Clothing to those in needEvery Wednesday 5:30 - 6:30pm

5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley925.625.9570

Worship Services

Outreach Ministries

Family Life Center of Brentwood605 Harvest Park Drive Brentwood, CA 94513

(925) 634-2016 Ministering to families in need: Homework Help, Social Services

(Food Stamps, Healthy Families) Food Pantry, Clothing & MoreThursdays at 7pm

The East Bay Pentecostals605 Harvest Park DriveBrentwood, CA 94513

(925) 634-2012Pastor Joel R. Bryant

Sunday Services 10am & 5pmWednesday Bible Study

7:30pmFriday Youth 7pm

International Christian Ministry

Grace Lutheran Church195 Alvarado Ave

Pittsburg, CA 94565Rev Tuma Johnson 550-5573

Christ TempleFull Faith Ministry Inc.Pastor Damon Pierson Worship service 1pm

101 West 9th St.Antioch CA 925-978-6273

Agape Bible Fellowship & Ministries Inc.

Pastor: Dr. John OjewolePizzazz Event Center

640 W. 2nd StreetAntioch, CA 94509

Tel. 925-265-1134/ 848-6240Email: [email protected]

Website: www.agapebfm.orgSunday Bible Study: 10:00AM

Sunday Worship: 11:00AMPrayer fellowship: Tuesdays 7PMYouth Ministry: Fridays 6:30PM

Unity on the DeltaPastor Robert Waldon

Sunday Service - 10:00am50 Sand Creek Road, Ste. 140

Brentwood, CA 94513Ph - 925-754-5343

Lighthouse Christian Center1210 Stoneman AvePittsburg, Ca 94565

(925) 432-3808Pastors Jason & Peggy Younger

Sundays 9:30 & 11:15amWednesday: Prayer & Healing

Service 7:00pm

Fountain of Life Church Pastor: Ronald Mixon

111 W. 10th St. Antioch, CA 94509 Next to Antioch City Park on A St.

(925) 755-8779 E-mail: [email protected] www.thefountainoflifechurch.org

Sunday Worship:10:00AM Wednesday: Intercessory Prayer:

7-7:30PM Bible Study:7:30-8:30PM


5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley CA 94561

ofc: (925) 625-9570fax: 625-9003

Email: [email protected] Send releases, letters and reprint re-

quests to the Email or address above.(c) Copyright 2008 Mountain View

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Publisher - Pastors Hanoum / DellingerEditor-In-Chief - Will Byrns

Managing Editor - Susan HolmesCopy Editors - Julie Jackson

& Cathy Huffman Reporters/Columnists

Susan Holmes, Rev. Austin Miles Saed & Linda Awwad, Priscilla Stanley,

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By Susan Holmes The question of God’s existence has been echoing in the hearts and minds of mankind ever since Adam & Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden. The Bible is clear that when man was firstcreatedheknewtheanswertothis question because in the book of Genesis we are told that Adam walked and talked with God. Adam had a personal relationship with his creator and questioning God’s existence was not a part of it, until the serpent started speaking words of doubt to Eve: “Did God really say?” The result of Adam andEvelisteningtothatfirstques-tion started a chain reaction that still continues today. Every single person ever born on this earth since Adam and Eve has to answer the question of God’s exis-tence in their own hearts. The correct answer to this question will help each one of us also know the answer to why we exist as well as determine where we will spend eternity. I personally became aware of the correct answer to this question in1976 when God opened the eyes of my understanding to not only His existence but also to the great love that He had for me. On May 26th, Holy Spirit took the blinders off of my eyes and I responded to the love of God by asking for forgiveness of my sins and asking Jesus to become my Lord and Savior. I now have a relationship with God and I know the reason for my existence is to walk and talk with Him and to introduce Him to everyone who

I come in contact with, especially those in my family whom I love. As a woman, wife, mother, grand-mother, friend, sister, co-worker, acquaintance, stranger, I want everyone to know this love, healing, peace and joy that I now have that comes from having a relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. While preparing for this article I asked several people this important question: “How do you know that God exists?” I know their answers will bless your heart as it did mine. Pastor Tyrone (my husband): “Be-cause man was created in the image of God who is a creator, man is also a creator. Everything on this earth was created by either God or man. God gave man the wisdom to know how to create after Him. No other creature on earth can create like man can. They can reproduce and God gave them the instinct to exist on this earth. But they can’t create things that man has such as electricity, spaceships, airplanes, computers, and the list goes on and on. This to me proves that there is a God and He is who He says He is.” Brian (33 - my oldest son): “When I look around and see the complexi-ties of life, I have to believe that there

is something greater in-volved. There are far too many details whether small or astronomi-cal to believe that there isn’t a God. Also, I know there is a God because of

the many personal miracles that I have witnessed in my life and in the lives of my 4 daughters. I know that I know that God exists.” Joshua (9 - my youngest son): “Because of all of the miracles that He has done like part the Red Sea, turn water into wine, heal people and He raised up dead people and brought them back to life. He has also changed me! I use to be disobedient and had trouble with my mouth. But I prayed and Jesus helped me learn to control myself in many ways. God has chal-lenged me to learn to be a better man of God.” Janessa (31 – daughter in law): “I have thought about this a lot and I always come back to the same an-swer. I look at the world and the many miracles in nature; evolution can’t ex-plain them, so it had to be created by something more than Darwin’s theory. Just look at nature and see all of what God has created from the ocean to the rain forest and you will know that God exists.” Erica (27 –to be daughter in law): “I know that God exists because I feel Him!” Julianne (6): “Because He is up in heaven and he rose from the dead, and because I asked him to live in my heart.” Alexa (7): I believe in him be-cause you have to accept him as your Savior.” Danielle (12): I pray to him every day, I read the Bible and I go to church. I have asked Jesus into my heart.” Ciana (12): “Because of the Bible, the scriptures and he’s helped me

through tough times.” Michael (10): “The Bible says that He died on the cross.” Anthony (5): “I had a dream, so I follow Him. I’ve always known it and Hehashelpedmefindmytoys.” Jacob (9): “When I pray, He answers my prayers. I once lost a toy snake and the next day it was on the countersoIcouldfindit.” Tyler (6): “I heard about Him because people say He’s real and I be-lieve them. He’s answered my prayers by helping me get all A’s in school.” Cortney (18); “I asked Him to live in my heart. He has done things for me that I didn’t think possible like getting all A’s and overcoming cir-cumstances and forgiving people.” Diane (34): “I see God in the world around me and all of the won-derful things that He has done in my life.” Cara (34): “In the past few years God has become so real in my life. He has provided for my family and an-swered my prayers. I know that He ex-ists. I wouldn’t be where I am without Him”. These are just a few of the re-sponses to this age old question. So now I would like to ask you my friend. Please stop and search your heart for the answer that can change your life forever. “How do YOU know that God ex-ists?” If you honestly don’t know the answer and you sincerely would like to know the truth, ask Him to reveal Himself to you. I promise you that He does exist and He loves you more that you can even dare to dream that someone loves you. Stop and take a long hard look at His beautiful, awe-some creation around you, then look in the mirror. He created the world for you to live in because He loves you and He created you because He wants to have a personal relationship with you through faith in Jesus Christ. Say “YES” to Him and it will be the start of the beginning of the rest of your life with Him. You will walk and talk with Him for all of eternity.

“How Do You Know That God Exists?”Say “YES” to Him and it will be the start of the beginning of the rest of your life with Him. You will walk and talk with Him for all of eternity.

~Susan Holmes


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Helping the homeless in Antioch Hot Meals, Clothing along with

other resources. (925) 727-8678

MISSION SOLANO 740TravisBlvd.FairfieldCA(707) 422-1011 Daily Meals,

Transitional Living Daily Shower, Shelter New Life Programs

Brother Raymond

DOVE AVIATIONIs looking for volunteers to help with

their ministry on local and internation-al levels. Dove is involved in Mission

Trips (925)584-7079

LOVE -A-CHILD MISSIONS Homeless Recovery Shelter Rehabilitative services for

homeless women and children. (925) 458-5663

Email- [email protected]

IRON SHOP Men’s Recovery Group

CHRISTIAN 12 STEP 925-525-9957 1745 East 18th Street Antioch

HELPING HANDSFood & Clothing to those in needEvery Wednesday 5:30-6:30pm5000 Amaryllis St. in Oakley

(925) 625-9570

Calendar

Men of VisionEvery 3rd Monday

Doors open 6:30-teaching at 7pmSponsored by

Mountain View Christian Center5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley 20/10 Vision 925-625-9570

Women Of WorthProverbs 31:10

Monday - June 1st 7pm-8:15pm(doors open at 6:30pm)

Mountain View Christian Center5000 Amaryllis Street Oakley

925-625-9570

Learn ChineseSaturdays at Diablo Valley College, LA Building

321 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill*Language Classes: 1 - 2:50 pm Pre-K - 12th Grade

*Cultural Classes: 3 - 3:50 pm Chinese Calligraphy, Painting, Chess,Knots, Yo-Yo, Folk Dance, Folk Singing, Abacus & Mental Math,Martial Arts, Handcrafts, Poetry Reading, Western Painting, After-

School Tutoring, Applied Conversation.*High School Foreign Language Credit

*Adult Chinese ConversationClass for Beginners. For registration, please

visit www.CoCoCs.org or email: [email protected] CCCSis501(c)3nonprofitID#:68-0040243

Freedom Recovery Ministry“In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them re-

pentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may RECOVER themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will”

2 TIMOTHY 2:25-26 Offers the following services:

COUNSELING AND EDIFICATION - OVERCOMING STRONGHOLDS:

1)ANGER ISSUES 2)COMPULSIVE ADDICTIONS 3)RENEWING OF THE MIND

MEN/WOMEN SUPPORT GROUPS

BIBLICAL INSTRUCTION FOR LIVING & WALKING TRIUMPHANTLY IN CHRIST

Freedom Recovery Ministry will be starting a NEW support group based on the WORD OF GOD at MVCC on every Friday, @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm starting Friday, January 30th 2009. It’s time to experience your Victory this year in 2009. Jesus is the KEY to tearing down strong-

holds. For more information contact: Pastor Tyrone Holmes @ 925 625-9570 ext 108

Healthcare with Faith CommunitiesBasic Preparatory Course for Parish Nurses

June 7 -10, 2009 (Sunday – Wednesday)Mercy Center (Burlingame CA)

This course prepares participants to establish and grow Health Ministry within a faith community.RNswillbeawardedCEU’sandFaithCommunityNurseCertificateforfullparticipation.*Approved by the International Parish Nurse Resource Center and Ca. BRN for 36 CEU.

For more information, please visit www.hmassoc.org or contact the Instructor:Marion DePuit, RN, BSN. FCN,

Program Manager Faith and Health PartnershipAmerica Casillas - AssistantCommunity Health Alliance

(925) 363-7588

Delta Women’s Connection“Quilting 101”

Tuesday, June 16th, 2009 11:30am to 1:00pmLuncheon, Program & Door Prizes $18.00 Inclusive

At “Nines” Brentwood Golf Club 100 Summerset Dr. BrentwoodInspirational Speaker: Sharon Olson

For reservations, call Dannette 925-684-7540 or Joyce 925-513-7644

Save the date, Saturday, June 27th 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

All God’s Children Christian School Summer Festival. Lots of family activities for all ages. Who doesn’t enjoy food, drinks, local vendors, karaoke, dancing, bouncy houses, and clowns. Don’t miss this event! Bring a chair and listen or grab someone to dance with as Take 2 Band plays

songs from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. This event is sponsored by the industrious, dedicated and tire-less Parents Club of All God’s Children Christian School in Discovery Bay. For more information regarding the festival, contact the Delta Community Presbyterian Church at 634-0184. Any busi-nesses, vendors, private individuals, etc. wishing to donate goods or services please contact Jill

Fernandez at 516-2116 or Shelly Lichlyter at 759-1096.

‘All God’s Children’Christian School Summer Festival Relay For Life of Brentwood

Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14 at Liberty High School , Ohmstede Field in downtown Brentwood . We are expecting over 2,000 participants to take part in this event and hope to top

last year’s fundraising effort of $307,000. You can learn more about Relay by going to www.relayforlife.org/brentwoodca. Contact 925-634-1812 if you have questions about sponsorship, forming a team, volunteering on

the day of the event or organizing pre-event fundraising at your place of business. Pleasejoinusaswebecomeknownasacommunitythathastakenupthefightagainstcancer! Sincerely, David Wahl, Sponsorship Committee Chair

Relay For Life of Brentwood 24 hours you’ll never forget. www.cancer.org - 1.800.ACS.2345 www.relayforlife.org/brentwoodca

The City of Oakley Decennial Celebration

There will be 4 events throughout the Decennial year beginning with our Cityhood Celebration on Saturday, July 4, 2009. This event will take place at Freedom High School in the basin beginning

at 6:00pm. The event will feature the following entertainment. Music throughout the evening with performances by Freedom High School cheerleaders, martial art students, dancers and tal-

ented young musical guests. We will have a children’s area with pony rides, a petting zoo, a train, face painting, a clown, jump houses and more. For the older children we have a rock climbing wall, laser tag, a bungee run and arcade games. For young adults we are including a Hoopshot

basketball game, speed pitch and a new “extreme” activity – the Euro Bungy. There will be food, arts & crafts and local retail vendors throughout. The evening will conclude with a spectacular

Fireworks show synchronized to music. The “Friends of Oakley” will be accepting donations of toys for their Community Basket program. Admission to the event is FREE, as is parking. A $5 wristband can be purchased for unlimited rides and games. Families are encouraged to bring a

blanket/lawnchairtoenjoytheentertainmentandfireworksshow.

Financial Forum

Rogers and Hammerstein’s

The Sound of Music PESENTED BY BIRTHRIGHT OF BRENTWOOD

Call 925.634.1275 for assistance or information. Learn more about the Birthright organization at our International website birthright.org

Friday, June 26, 2009 8:00pmEl Campanil Theatre

602 W. Second Street AntiochGeneral Admission for the play will be $15.00 and the doors open at 7:15pm for General Admis-sion ticket holders. VIP admission is $30.00 and the doors open at 6:00pm for VIP ticket holders. Only200ticketsavailable,includesfirstofchoiceseating,drinks,historicalpresentationby

theatre manager, door prizes, a pre show performance, and more! TicketsmaybepurchasedinadvancebycallingRoseat925.628.3785orattheBoxOffice

604 W. Second Street – Next to Theatre (M-F 10-3) and 1 hour before Showtime or by phone at 925.757.9500 or online at www.elcampaniltheatre.com/birthright.htm


Financial Forum

By Donald Kwong Think about these words of the Lord in Jeremiah 5:1, replace the city of Jerusalem with the name of your community, and see if you can answer this question: “Roam to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and look now, and take note…ifyoucanfindaman,ifthereisonewhodoes justice, one who seeks truth, then I will pardon her.” You may feel hard pressed to answer this question in a world where we see corporateexecutivemismanagefirmsandlie before the media about what they have done. We see leading politicians manipulate the truth in order to advance their agendas. It’s easy for Christians to point out deception all around us. But before we speak about the speck in other people’s eyes, let’s get the plank out of our eyes. Read and consider the following questions –

Do I report all my income on my tax return, are all my deductions 1) legitimate?Do I care for other people’s property like it was mine?2) Have I ever told an untruth or “white lie” about something I was 3) selling in order to make the sale?If I get charged less at the checkout stand, do I tell the cash or sales 4) associate?DoIevertakestamps,officesuppliesoranythingfrommyemployer5) for my personal use?Do I believe that I can be dishonest because other people do it?6)

It is estimated that it is almost $1 billion that is stolen by employees each week. We live in a world with “relative honesty”. The truth, the honest truth, is that God gives us the opportunity to act honestly daily. The truth is important to God. The Lord says that he is the truth (John 14:6).Wearecreatedinhisimagearealsocreatedtoreflecthisways.Wecannot be dishonest and love God. We are saying that we can be dishonest

because God cannot provide for our needs, and that we need to take care of ourselves. Dishonesty is also a barrier to being able to love other people. Dishonesty hurts other people. For instance, you may rationalize that cheating on your taxes is taking from the government, but it is really taking from fellow taxpayers. It is just like taking money out of the wallets and purses of your friends and next door neighbors. Honesty is a powerful evangelism tool. People often do

not trust what you say, but they watch what you do. Ask yourself what an unchurched person would say if he saw you do something dishonest and he knew you were a Christian. Sadly, that person may turn away and you would not have the chance to explain yourself – or the greatness of your God. Ask God to reveal dishonest behavior that you should be changing. You will need to do three things: 1) restore your relationship with Christ, 2) restore your fellowship with people, and 3) return whatever you have stolen.

Sin separates you from God. Confess your sin to the Lord. If it helps 1) you,findamatureChristianfriendtowhomyoucanconfess,andaskhim to help keep you accountable. Remember not only to be open to confess, but be open for God’s mercy and forgiveness. Confess to anyone you have offended. “He who conceals his 2) transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them willfindcompassion.”–Proverbs28:13Restitution is a tangible expression of repentance. If you can’t return 3) whatever you’ve stolen to that person, then give it to the Lord.

Are you the one God is looking for in Jeremiah 5:1? Are you the one who will seek out the Lord and alter the destiny of your city? You may not be recognized in the newspaper or given the key to the city, but your efforts could ring through eternity.

“The Honest Truth”

It’s easy for Christians to point out deception all around us. But before we speak about the speck in

other people’s eyes, let’s get the plank out of our eyes.

~ Don Kwong

Hebrews 11:1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.


America’s Good Newsgoes out by direct mail

(100% saturation) to every home, business and Apt. in Brentwood, Oakley,

Discovery Bay & Byron, and every business in Antioch

High circulation - Low rates

Fulfi ll your advertising needs & support us in spreading the word of God. It’s good to know

that your help is making a difference in this community for you and your children!!

Call 925-625-9570

Churches Helping ChurchesDo you need more chairs for your church?

Did your church just buy new chairs? Would your church like to bless another church with its used chairs?

Does your church need a keyboard for worship? Did your church just buy a new keyboard?

Churches always have a need for something, so why not work together tofillthatneed.

America’s Good News would like to see churches partner with one another. So we are willing to create a FREE section in our paper that churches can use in order to bless each other as the need

arises. Amen! No items in this section shall be for sale. Our desire is to see churches give to one another out of Love.

The Fellowship of the Believers Acts 2:44-47(NIV) All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 Selling

their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad

and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

We are one body, right? John 17:23 (NIV) I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the

world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.Email to: [email protected]

All God’s Children Christian School First Annual “Son” RunSomepeoplemissedafabulousfirstannual5krunaroundWillowLake in Discovery Bay that was sponsored by the parents club of All God’s Children Christian School in Discovery Bay. 125 par-

ticipants varying in age from infants to senior citizens ran, walked, biked, pushed strollers and rode scooters, (even motorized ones) to raise money for play yard equipment for the new school that willbecommencingitsfirstK-5classesforthe2009-2010year.For more information about All God’s Children Christian School,

contact Kelly Bye 925.513.8006 [email protected].

2063 Main St. PMB#419Oakley, CA 94561

License #B884001Insured and Bonded

Steve’s [email protected]

Office 925-625-7771Cell 925-628-3536

* Fence Repair/Replace* Flooring

* Built-in Bookcases* Plumbing Repairs

* ADA Modifications

“Quality Home & Office Repair”

All God’s ChildrenChristian School

First Annual “Son” Run

Hebrews 11:6And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him

must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

2 Peter 3:5But they deliberately forget that long ago by God’s word the heavens existed and

the earth was formed out of water and by water.


Come and check out our full inventory of pool supplies and equipment.

Summer’s here!


Special EventsEnsure your guests remember their next Corporate Meeting. Whether a small offsite conference or a full blown national event, Hanoum Estate will provide a once in a lifetime experience. Come celebrate your Anniversary, Birthday, Family Reunion, or an elegant Ball. Let your imagination run wild!

For Reservations

Call (925)

625-3563

2009 and 2010 datesfilling quickly!

Hanoum EstateLocated only 45 minutes from Sacramento and San Francisco.

The Tennessee style mansion is surrounded by 5 acres of gardens, waterfalls, and exotic landscaping. Your guests will be enthralled as they take in the sights and sounds of this elegant Estate. Let us make your wedding day the fairy tale you have

dreamed about.

This beautiful country retreat is available for:* Weddings * Corporate gatherings* Counseling Pastors * Banquets

* Receptions and more

Photo courtesy: www.gr8expressions.com. ~Marlena Roslan

june 2009 does god exist?

Documents

book of revelation bible

depth bible study

church service times

amaryllis street

senior pastor

study course

mountain view christian

previous study methods