It’s that time of year again…time for children to head back to school! Parents everywhere are buying book bags, notebooks, pencils, calculators, lunchboxes, sports equipment, etc. Many folks made a special trip out last weekend to take advantage of Virginia’s tax-free holiday for school supplies. Over the next few weeks, schools will be holding “open house” and parents and children will take time to meet teachers, view schedules, pay fees and make other necessary preparations for the upcoming school year. However, there is something our kids need that is more important than school supplies….they need to be filled with God’s Word and bathed in prayer each day as they enter their mission field…the classroom.
We have been teaching about “salt and light” in Kid’s Church for several weeks. The children are learning that we need to be salty: we need to have a distinct flavor that makes others thirsty for Jesus, and we shouldn’t just blend in with the world around us or be bland or conforming. As Christian parents, we need to encourage our children to be an example to others, walking in obedience to God and His Word. Proverbs 20:11 says “Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right”. We should also encourage our kids to be light in this dark world. No matter how young, children can share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with others; in fact, they are often more quick to do this than adults. There are classrooms of children all across our city, state and country that are full of people that need to hear the Gospel message.
In the thirteen years my children have been in public school, I have prayed for them each day before they went to school. I have prayed for God’s protection over them both physically and spiritually, for God to help them to learn well, for both of them to be a good example and a witness to others, and many other things. At least 2, 340 prayers have gone up for them. I don’t say this to brag; I am not perfect, I know that they have not been perfect and all of their experiences have not been perfect. But I do believe that God has blessed their education and I pray each day that they will have an impact on someone’s life. As you prepare for school to start this year, add this to your “to-do” list: pray for your children every day, not only that God will protect them and help them to learn, but also that, as believers, they will be salt and light to the world around them.
-Pastor Tina Blackburn
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Let us encourage one another
This past Saturday, Pastor Chris and I took a group of children from Kid’s Church on a “Kid’s Day Out”. We went to play putt-putt golf and then took the children out for ice cream. The thought of taking ten children, boys and girls ages 5-12, out on such an adventure was initially a little bit scary. But our prayer was that these children would develop friendships with one another and begin to feel a bond of Christian fellowship, even at that young age. I cannot express how wonderful each one of the children were; they were so well-behaved; even the children who typically do not interact with one another enjoyed playing with each other and seemed to have a wonderful time. Our prayer is that all of the children will be able to develop friendships with one another that will be nurtured into adulthood.
Relationships are very important to God and His Kingdom. Developing bonds of friendship with other Christians gives us strength and encouragement in our walk with the Lord. Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us “We must also consider how to encourage each other to show love and to do good things. We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing. Instead, we must continue to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming.”
Spending time with and developing relationships with other believers is so important to the believer. Enjoying our free time is also important. As summer time approaches, we begin to make plans for all types of summer fun: vacations, trips to the lake, picnics, ball games, you name it. So many fun things, so little time! It is important to remember, however, to prioritize. God should always come first in our life. Jesus commanded us in Matthew 6:33 to seek God’s Kingdom first, to be concerned about His Kingdom and what has His approval. It is important to be in His house on Sunday morning. All those summer activities are just as fun on a Saturday or a Sunday afternoon. Being a part of the body of Christ and worshiping together with our brothers and sisters in Christ will help us to develop those friendships and give us that encouragement in the Lord that we need even more as the day of the Lord comes.
-Pastor Tina Blackburn
Monday, March 29, 2010
Touching Heaven...
It really goes without saying that working with children in any way, shape or form poses many different challenges. You want adventure? Don’t bother joining the Army. They’ll ship you overseas, make you wear green and make you eat awful food. (No offense to our military intended! It’s a noble and necessary calling, really!) But if you want adventure right here in your own back yard, help a kid. It is indeed a challenge and an adventure, but it’s worth every minute. Parents know this; parents who care, that is. Teachers know this; teachers worth their weight in post-it notes, that is. Daycare workers know this; daycare workers who have a passion for helping kids and seeing to their well-being, that is.
Approached in the correct way, with the proper attitude, these challenges can really result in some very rewarding experiences, most importantly for the child, but also for the parent, teacher and daycare worker. Seeing a kid’s face light up when you tell them they have the potential for great things is just one of those rewards. Watching a kid beam with joy when you tell them you’re going to call their parent, not because they’re in trouble but because you just want to brag on them is another. Having a kid smile to themselves when they know they’ve answered a question correctly just adds to the long list of rewards you get when you work with kids.
Perhaps the biggest reward in working with kids comes when you realize that you are doing what the words to a popular song say: “Touching heaven, changing earth.” Jesus told his disciples to “suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of heaven.” He also told his followers that unless they became as little children they could not enter the kingdom of heaven. Kids of any age, even the ones who are indeed impossible to deal with or seemingly even reach are pieces of heaven. When you make a difference in the life of a child we touch heaven and change earth, even if it’s just for them, because then that child, hopefully and prayerfully, goes out and changes his earth.
Go touch heaven today. The piece of earth changed just may be yours!
-Ben Hanneman
Approached in the correct way, with the proper attitude, these challenges can really result in some very rewarding experiences, most importantly for the child, but also for the parent, teacher and daycare worker. Seeing a kid’s face light up when you tell them they have the potential for great things is just one of those rewards. Watching a kid beam with joy when you tell them you’re going to call their parent, not because they’re in trouble but because you just want to brag on them is another. Having a kid smile to themselves when they know they’ve answered a question correctly just adds to the long list of rewards you get when you work with kids.
Perhaps the biggest reward in working with kids comes when you realize that you are doing what the words to a popular song say: “Touching heaven, changing earth.” Jesus told his disciples to “suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of heaven.” He also told his followers that unless they became as little children they could not enter the kingdom of heaven. Kids of any age, even the ones who are indeed impossible to deal with or seemingly even reach are pieces of heaven. When you make a difference in the life of a child we touch heaven and change earth, even if it’s just for them, because then that child, hopefully and prayerfully, goes out and changes his earth.
Go touch heaven today. The piece of earth changed just may be yours!
-Ben Hanneman
Thursday, March 25, 2010
The Jesus Storybook Bible
Have you been looking for a great children’s Bible for that special kid in your life? It would make the perfect Easter gift to keep the focus on Jesus. I know what you’re thinking: “She must be working on commission.” No, I’m not. I just happen to love reading this Bible myself (my kids love it too) and want to share it with you. This wonderful Bible is "The Jesus Storybook Bible" written by Sally Lloyd-Jones and illustrated by Jago. It contains 21 stories from the Old Testament and 23 stories from the New Testament. These stories are not written with verses, but every story points us to Jesus. In a gentle, yet passionate way, Sally Lloyd-Jones tells how mankind could never be good enough or wise enough or work hard enough to save itself. Each story shows the condition of the heart, the need for a savior, and God’s promise to rescue us through Jesus. Here is an excerpt from the first story in this exciting Bible.
“No, the Bible isn’t a book of rules, or a book of heroes. The Bible is most of all a Story. It’s an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It’s a love story about a brave Prince who leaves his palace, his throne - everything - to rescue the one he loves. It’s like the most wonderful of fairy tales that has come true in real life!” (page 17)
Jago uses brilliant illustrations to help tell these incredible stories. I appreciate his use color, texture, and emotion. I also like his representation of various cultures and ethnicities. If I could draw, I’d try to give you a taste of the beautiful illustrations by Jago. But, I cannot. You will have to pick up a copy for yourself to see his amazing artwork.
Check it out here: www.jesusstorybookbible.com
- Anna Spraker
“No, the Bible isn’t a book of rules, or a book of heroes. The Bible is most of all a Story. It’s an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It’s a love story about a brave Prince who leaves his palace, his throne - everything - to rescue the one he loves. It’s like the most wonderful of fairy tales that has come true in real life!” (page 17)
Jago uses brilliant illustrations to help tell these incredible stories. I appreciate his use color, texture, and emotion. I also like his representation of various cultures and ethnicities. If I could draw, I’d try to give you a taste of the beautiful illustrations by Jago. But, I cannot. You will have to pick up a copy for yourself to see his amazing artwork.
Check it out here: www.jesusstorybookbible.com
- Anna Spraker
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
What Would You Ask For?
Last Sunday in Children’s Church, I asked our kids a question. “If God were to come to you right now and say that he would give you any one thing your heart desired, what would it be?” Of course, there were the safe answers such as God’s heart, eternal life and to go right on to heaven now. Some of the adults in the room stated they would like to have all the money in the world or to have all the financial debts removed. There were some other, more selfish answers such as a Lamborghini car, all the puppies in the world, a horse and the ability to have superpowers. After making a list of all the answers, I spent some time talking about the condition of our heart. You see, we can tell the condition of our heart when we find out what we are most focused on in life. The Bible clearly states that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. When given a quick opportunity to answer the question, the kids and adults in the room blurted out those things that were the most pressing in their hearts. It is not that any of these items are bad things to ask for, but we must ask ourselves . . . would God be pleased with our choice.
In I Kings, there is the story of Solomon. God appeared in a dream to Solomon one night and told him He would grant Solomon any one thing his heart desired. After giving it some thought, Solomon asked for wisdom. I Kings 3:4-15 is where the story begins. In verse 6 Solomon responded “You’ve shown great love to my father David, who was your servant. He lived in your presence with truth, righteousness, and commitment. And you continued to show him your great love by giving him a son to sit on his throne today. Lord, my God, although I’m young and inexperienced, you’ve made me king in place of my father David. I’m among your people whom you have chosen. They are too numerous to count or record. Give me a heart that listens so that I can judge your people and tell the difference between good and evil. After all, who can judge this great people of yours?”
Verse 10 says all we need to know about Solomon’s choice . . . “The Lord was pleased that Solomon asked for this. God replied “You’ve asked for this and not for a long life or riches for yourself, or the death of your enemies. Instead, you have asked for understanding so that you can do what is right.” We can see from later scripture that Solomon was blessed indeed with wisdom. So much so that men came from all over the world to learn from him. On top of that, the Lord blessed him with a long life and with riches beyond compare.
Interesting thought though . . . where are all of those riches now? There is no mention in any museum of the great throne made of pure gold that Solomon had (which no doubt would be worth in the millions or possibly billions). There was so much silver in Solomon’s kingdom that it literally had no value. All of his household items were made of gold. Anyone know where those things are now? No doubt, these things have been lost in time and may never be recovered.
So, what can we learn from this story? Maybe we should each examine our heart a little more closely and ask ourselves what is it that our heart desires? Are we asking God for material goods that would possibly make our lives better in our own eyes (say, a new car, a new house, a better job) or are we really asking God for those things that would make us better servants to others in His kingdom? Material goods will not last. The Bible says we should store up our treasures in heaven and not on this earth. Stop worrying about what you have or what you would like to have. Instead, let’s ask God to give us what we really need to be effective servants in His kingdom.
-Pastor Chris Blackburn
In I Kings, there is the story of Solomon. God appeared in a dream to Solomon one night and told him He would grant Solomon any one thing his heart desired. After giving it some thought, Solomon asked for wisdom. I Kings 3:4-15 is where the story begins. In verse 6 Solomon responded “You’ve shown great love to my father David, who was your servant. He lived in your presence with truth, righteousness, and commitment. And you continued to show him your great love by giving him a son to sit on his throne today. Lord, my God, although I’m young and inexperienced, you’ve made me king in place of my father David. I’m among your people whom you have chosen. They are too numerous to count or record. Give me a heart that listens so that I can judge your people and tell the difference between good and evil. After all, who can judge this great people of yours?”
Verse 10 says all we need to know about Solomon’s choice . . . “The Lord was pleased that Solomon asked for this. God replied “You’ve asked for this and not for a long life or riches for yourself, or the death of your enemies. Instead, you have asked for understanding so that you can do what is right.” We can see from later scripture that Solomon was blessed indeed with wisdom. So much so that men came from all over the world to learn from him. On top of that, the Lord blessed him with a long life and with riches beyond compare.
Interesting thought though . . . where are all of those riches now? There is no mention in any museum of the great throne made of pure gold that Solomon had (which no doubt would be worth in the millions or possibly billions). There was so much silver in Solomon’s kingdom that it literally had no value. All of his household items were made of gold. Anyone know where those things are now? No doubt, these things have been lost in time and may never be recovered.
So, what can we learn from this story? Maybe we should each examine our heart a little more closely and ask ourselves what is it that our heart desires? Are we asking God for material goods that would possibly make our lives better in our own eyes (say, a new car, a new house, a better job) or are we really asking God for those things that would make us better servants to others in His kingdom? Material goods will not last. The Bible says we should store up our treasures in heaven and not on this earth. Stop worrying about what you have or what you would like to have. Instead, let’s ask God to give us what we really need to be effective servants in His kingdom.
-Pastor Chris Blackburn
Thursday, January 14, 2010
God’s Provision
Throughout December, I talked with my two-year-old son about the Christmas story. We covered many topics related to the events surrounding the birth of Christ including God’s provision: Jesus needed a mommy and daddy on earth, so God gave Him Mary and Joseph. The Shepherds needed a Savior, so God sent angels to tell them that Jesus had been born and where to find Him. The Wise Men needed a King so God sent a star to show them the way to Jesus. Mary and Joseph needed a place for Jesus to be born and God gave them a barn. Did you catch that last part? Somehow it just doesn’t seem to fit with the rest. God certainly could have given them a palace or a mansion or at least their own humble home for the birth of Christ, but He didn’t. And yet the truth remains, that He did provide for them and the baby Jesus grew up healthy and whole despite the unsanitary conditions in which he was born.
What do we, as American Christians, expect when we ask God to provide for us. Are we asking for angels, a star, a barn, or something in between? Would we be satisfied with the barn? The American culture has many Biblical ideals we can be thankful for (freedom, generosity, the goal of equality for everyone, etc.), but there are of course many weaknesses as well. Over-indulgence, self-absorption, and greed are the relevant flaws for this particular discussion. Have we even considered breaking free from our culture as far as our standard of living goes? During the Christmas season, I heard so many people say things like, “Well, we probably spent too much, but…”; “Well, I splurged a little, but…”; “Well, I decided to buy something for myself after all that shopping…”; “I ate way too much, but it was just so good.” Our first thought when a problem arises is often, “What can I buy to fix this or make it easier?” How many times have we thought to ourselves, if it just had________, then I would feel good about ________.” (You fill in the blanks.) Why do we expect so much when most of the world has so little? How often do we just rest in the knowledge that God has provided for us richly and that He will always give us what we need?
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].” Any of us who grew up in the midst of American culture have probably been conformed to it without even trying, but we can break free so that our attitudes and expectations, wants and desires become that which is God’s perfect will for us rather than simply a reflection of the world around us. Together let’s renew our minds through the study of God’s Word and change our ideals so that we can be more like our Savior and Master, the Lord Jesus Christ.
-Jenny Greene
What do we, as American Christians, expect when we ask God to provide for us. Are we asking for angels, a star, a barn, or something in between? Would we be satisfied with the barn? The American culture has many Biblical ideals we can be thankful for (freedom, generosity, the goal of equality for everyone, etc.), but there are of course many weaknesses as well. Over-indulgence, self-absorption, and greed are the relevant flaws for this particular discussion. Have we even considered breaking free from our culture as far as our standard of living goes? During the Christmas season, I heard so many people say things like, “Well, we probably spent too much, but…”; “Well, I splurged a little, but…”; “Well, I decided to buy something for myself after all that shopping…”; “I ate way too much, but it was just so good.” Our first thought when a problem arises is often, “What can I buy to fix this or make it easier?” How many times have we thought to ourselves, if it just had________, then I would feel good about ________.” (You fill in the blanks.) Why do we expect so much when most of the world has so little? How often do we just rest in the knowledge that God has provided for us richly and that He will always give us what we need?
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].” Any of us who grew up in the midst of American culture have probably been conformed to it without even trying, but we can break free so that our attitudes and expectations, wants and desires become that which is God’s perfect will for us rather than simply a reflection of the world around us. Together let’s renew our minds through the study of God’s Word and change our ideals so that we can be more like our Savior and Master, the Lord Jesus Christ.
-Jenny Greene
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Since we couldn't have church today...
Well, we couldn't have church this morning so here is the Christmas Program from last week, since we couldn't see it this morning. The message of the true meaning of Christmas; Christ birth and the importance we must place on it rang throughout the program. The choir, actors, children, director, sound and lighting crew did a fantastic job. We now present:
Twas the Night Before Christmas...
Twas the Night Before Christmas...
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Why We Need the Parental Rights Amendment...
Are your God-given rights as a parent important to you? The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child completely undermines the idea of the right of the parent. Here is some information from parentalrights.org about the UN Treaty being considered by the US Senate and the President.
Eighty years ago the Supreme Court declared that “the child is not the mere creature of the
State; those who nurture him and direct his destiny have the right, coupled with the high duty,
to recognize and prepare him for additional obligations.” Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510
(1925). Thirty years ago the Court continued this line of reasoning with the pronouncement
that the “primary role of the parents in the upbringing of their children is now established
beyond debate as an enduring American tradition.” Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972).
Yet in 2000, when the State of Washington gave any person the ability to override a good
parent’s decision about visitation by simply claiming that it would be “best” for children to
allow the third-party to have visitation rights, in the Supreme Court’s Troxel v. Granville:
•
There were six separate opinions and none reached a five-vote majority.
•
Justice Thomas was the only justice to clearly state that parental rights.
receive the same high legal standard of protection as other fundamental rights.
•
Justice Scalia held that parents have no constitutionally protected rights whatsoever.
Support for a high-view of
parental rights has been
seriously undermined by
the current Court. As a
consequence, numerous
lower federal courts refuse
to treat parental rights as
deserving of protection as
a fundamental right.
At the same time, America
is poised to adopt the UN
Convention on the Rights
of the Child. President
Obama supports this treaty.
Secretary of State Hillary
Clinton has been a leading
advocate of this treaty for
over twenty years. Senator
Barbara Boxer (D-CA) has
“promised” that this treaty
will be ratified during this
term of Congress.
Why We Need the
Parental Rights Amendment
The proposed
PARENTAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT
HJRes 42 / SJRes 16
Section 1.
The liberty of parents to direct the upbringing and education
of their children is a fundamental right.
Section 2.
Neither the United States nor any State shall infringe upon
this right without demonstrating that its governmental inter-
est as applied to the person is of the highest order and not
otherwise served.
Section 3.
No treaty may be adopted nor shall any source of interna-
tional law be employed to supersede, modify, interpret, or
apply to the rights guaranteed by this article.
If this treaty is ratified:
•
The laws of all 50 states on children and parents would be superseded by this international
law by virtue of a specific provision of the US Constitution which expressly declares
treaties to be supreme over state law. Virtually all law on children and parents is state law.
•
Good parents would no longer be entitled to the legal presumption that they act in the best
interests of their children. Instead, the government would have the authority to overrule all
parents on any decision concerning the child if the government believed it could make a
better decision.
•
Parents could no longer spank their children.
•
Children would have the legal right to choose their own religion. Parents would be
permitted only to give advice.
•
America would be under a binding legal obligation to massively increase its federal
spending on children’s programs.
The only kind of law that can override a treaty is the Constitution of the United States. State
laws or state constitutions cannot override treaties. There is no guarantee that federal statutes
could override treaties—moreover, we enter a binding legal promise to obey a treaty when we
ratify it. America should not promise to obey a treaty and then claim it is appropriate to obey
the treaty only when we want to. America of all nations must respect the rule of law.
There is only one possible solution for the eroding support for parental rights in the Supreme
Court that can also stop the encroachment of international law.
We need to place time-honored parental rights, as recognized by the Supreme Court for over
seventy years, into the explicit text of the Constitution.
We cannot wait until our rights are formally demolished. We must act now to stop interna-
tional law and protect these two key principles:
•
Fit parents should be allowed to direct the upbringing of their children.
•
American legislators, not international tribunals, should make the public
policy for America on families and children.
If you believe these two principles, become a supporter of parental rights:
Donate, volunteer, or join the e-mail network at
P.O. Box 1090 Purcellville, Virginia 20132
info@parentalrights.org – (540) 751-1200
Eighty years ago the Supreme Court declared that “the child is not the mere creature of the
State; those who nurture him and direct his destiny have the right, coupled with the high duty,
to recognize and prepare him for additional obligations.” Pierce v. Society of Sisters, 268 U.S. 510
(1925). Thirty years ago the Court continued this line of reasoning with the pronouncement
that the “primary role of the parents in the upbringing of their children is now established
beyond debate as an enduring American tradition.” Wisconsin v. Yoder, 406 U.S. 205 (1972).
Yet in 2000, when the State of Washington gave any person the ability to override a good
parent’s decision about visitation by simply claiming that it would be “best” for children to
allow the third-party to have visitation rights, in the Supreme Court’s Troxel v. Granville:
•
There were six separate opinions and none reached a five-vote majority.
•
Justice Thomas was the only justice to clearly state that parental rights.
receive the same high legal standard of protection as other fundamental rights.
•
Justice Scalia held that parents have no constitutionally protected rights whatsoever.
Support for a high-view of
parental rights has been
seriously undermined by
the current Court. As a
consequence, numerous
lower federal courts refuse
to treat parental rights as
deserving of protection as
a fundamental right.
At the same time, America
is poised to adopt the UN
Convention on the Rights
of the Child. President
Obama supports this treaty.
Secretary of State Hillary
Clinton has been a leading
advocate of this treaty for
over twenty years. Senator
Barbara Boxer (D-CA) has
“promised” that this treaty
will be ratified during this
term of Congress.
Why We Need the
Parental Rights Amendment
The proposed
PARENTAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT
HJRes 42 / SJRes 16
Section 1.
The liberty of parents to direct the upbringing and education
of their children is a fundamental right.
Section 2.
Neither the United States nor any State shall infringe upon
this right without demonstrating that its governmental inter-
est as applied to the person is of the highest order and not
otherwise served.
Section 3.
No treaty may be adopted nor shall any source of interna-
tional law be employed to supersede, modify, interpret, or
apply to the rights guaranteed by this article.
If this treaty is ratified:
•
The laws of all 50 states on children and parents would be superseded by this international
law by virtue of a specific provision of the US Constitution which expressly declares
treaties to be supreme over state law. Virtually all law on children and parents is state law.
•
Good parents would no longer be entitled to the legal presumption that they act in the best
interests of their children. Instead, the government would have the authority to overrule all
parents on any decision concerning the child if the government believed it could make a
better decision.
•
Parents could no longer spank their children.
•
Children would have the legal right to choose their own religion. Parents would be
permitted only to give advice.
•
America would be under a binding legal obligation to massively increase its federal
spending on children’s programs.
The only kind of law that can override a treaty is the Constitution of the United States. State
laws or state constitutions cannot override treaties. There is no guarantee that federal statutes
could override treaties—moreover, we enter a binding legal promise to obey a treaty when we
ratify it. America should not promise to obey a treaty and then claim it is appropriate to obey
the treaty only when we want to. America of all nations must respect the rule of law.
There is only one possible solution for the eroding support for parental rights in the Supreme
Court that can also stop the encroachment of international law.
We need to place time-honored parental rights, as recognized by the Supreme Court for over
seventy years, into the explicit text of the Constitution.
We cannot wait until our rights are formally demolished. We must act now to stop interna-
tional law and protect these two key principles:
•
Fit parents should be allowed to direct the upbringing of their children.
•
American legislators, not international tribunals, should make the public
policy for America on families and children.
If you believe these two principles, become a supporter of parental rights:
Donate, volunteer, or join the e-mail network at
P.O. Box 1090 Purcellville, Virginia 20132
info@parentalrights.org – (540) 751-1200
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
What makes it all worthwhile...
All the planning,
All the funding raising,
All the packing,
All the traveling...
All the balloons,
All the face paint,
All the playing,
All the praying,
All the waiting...
All worthwhile...
Thank you to all who gave so that we could help change lives.
Pastor Mike and Allison
Bobby and Susie Hickman
& The South Dakota Team
All the funding raising,
All the packing,
All the traveling...
All the balloons,
All the face paint,
All the playing,
All the praying,
All the waiting...
All worthwhile...
Thank you to all who gave so that we could help change lives.
Pastor Mike and Allison
Bobby and Susie Hickman
& The South Dakota Team
Thursday, July 9, 2009
More 4th of July Celebration...
Radford Worship Center's Choir gave an outstanding presentation celebrating the Fourth of July this year. Lead by Dana Farmer the eleven member choir lead the congregation in Patriotic songs reminding us of the sacrifices made for our country and challenging us to cherish our hard won freedoms. The children as always are a highlight of any service they are in and this one was no exception. Let us take what the choir sung about and what the speakers spoke about and truly remember to cherish our freedoms and pray for our country.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
On the Importance of Church Family...
Hebrews 10:24-25 "We must also consider how to encourage each other to show love and to do good things. We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing. Instead we must continue to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming."
At the end of the school year as I was looking through what seemed to be an endless mountain of used workbooks, worksheets and notebook paper I ran across something that I found to be quite heartening. I say this not because my child is a great wordsmith or author (yet) but because of the person he chose to write about in the character essay he had been assigned.
Those of us with children in public school know the necessity of a refreshing moment after re-teaching something taught spiritually incorrect at school. I’m sure those that home school also have the need to be strengthened after spending countless hours devoted solely to the education of their children.
It is at this place in a Christian parent’s life that our church family becomes so encouraging. It is at this point of a child’s need that our church family is ever so willing to intercede, instruct and sometimes even intervene. And it is with a grateful heart that we parents call Radford Worship Center our home. Having said that, I would like to share this essay and in doing so I hope it is an encouragement to you because you are making a great impact.
Brother Tony is always there when you need him. He shows great friendship by this. When he sees you he gives you a great big hug.
Brother Tony always shows great citizenship. Our church takes up money to send to South Dakota. Brother Tony goes to South Dakota to take the Native Americans food. He always has a smile on his face.
Brother Tony shows kindness and love by praying for you. Brother Tony calls me “Buddy” because I think he can’t remember my name.
Brother Tony is spectacular. He shows citizenship, kindness and friendship. I think that Brother Tony is outstanding. Brother Tony is always on your side.
-Cindy Nelson
At the end of the school year as I was looking through what seemed to be an endless mountain of used workbooks, worksheets and notebook paper I ran across something that I found to be quite heartening. I say this not because my child is a great wordsmith or author (yet) but because of the person he chose to write about in the character essay he had been assigned.
Those of us with children in public school know the necessity of a refreshing moment after re-teaching something taught spiritually incorrect at school. I’m sure those that home school also have the need to be strengthened after spending countless hours devoted solely to the education of their children.
It is at this place in a Christian parent’s life that our church family becomes so encouraging. It is at this point of a child’s need that our church family is ever so willing to intercede, instruct and sometimes even intervene. And it is with a grateful heart that we parents call Radford Worship Center our home. Having said that, I would like to share this essay and in doing so I hope it is an encouragement to you because you are making a great impact.
Brother Tony
By: Jeremy Nelson
There is a nice elderly man at my church. His name is Brother Tony. He is a good citizen. He always shows great friendship and kindness. I will tell you why I picked Brother Tony.By: Jeremy Nelson
Brother Tony is always there when you need him. He shows great friendship by this. When he sees you he gives you a great big hug.
Brother Tony always shows great citizenship. Our church takes up money to send to South Dakota. Brother Tony goes to South Dakota to take the Native Americans food. He always has a smile on his face.
Brother Tony shows kindness and love by praying for you. Brother Tony calls me “Buddy” because I think he can’t remember my name.
Brother Tony is spectacular. He shows citizenship, kindness and friendship. I think that Brother Tony is outstanding. Brother Tony is always on your side.
-Cindy Nelson
Monday, June 15, 2009
Do You Know Where Your Children Are?
If you have children, you are probably old enough to remember the public service announcements that used to come on television every night that stated “It’s 10 P.M., do you know where your children are?” When I was younger and these ads would come on, I would snicker every time I heard them, thinking “What parent in their right mind doesn’t know where their children are?!” Of course, by the time I became a teenager myself, I proved that there is a need for that question! As parents, we realize that the later our children stay out, the more trouble they can get into: fewer public places to go, less adult supervision, it’s dark outside, etc. Amidst these dangers, the more important it is to know exactly where they are.
The question we need to ask ourselves as parents is “At this time, in this dangerous world, do you know where your children are?” Do you know where your children are spiritually? Merely going to Sunday School or attending church on Sundays or Wednesdays does not ensure that your children are where they need to be spiritually. Are you nurturing your child spiritually through prayer and Bible study? Do you discuss life lessons with your children from a Biblical point of view? Is Jesus Christ the priority in your home?
As parents, it is easy to become caught up in the cares of the world. We get swept up into things such as sports, friendships, fashion, video games, academics, dating, toys, music, movies, etc. Our children are tempted with all the latest gadgets and trends, and we often comply in order to help them “fit in”. So much time, energy and money is spent on worldly pursuits. But God’s Word tells us that we shouldn’t be conformed to the world. Jesus said we are to be the light of the world, reflecting His love and a Godly character to those who view us. We should teach our children to be light in the world, not a mirror image of the world. The world needs to see Jesus Christ as the priority in the lives of believers, including children.
Often worldly pursuits take priority over what is most important: the child’s spiritual growth. A friend of mine recently commented that she and her children had not been to church in a while because of their sports schedules. Her defense was “We can’t let their teams down!” But they were willing to neglect the one who died for them to secure their eternal life. Children learn priorities from their parents. Is Jesus Christ the priority in your home?
Deuteronomy 6:5 -7 tells us “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” We must be diligent in teaching our children about God, making God the priority in all of our everyday experiences. It’s not easy parenting children in the world in which we live. It’s not easy to be a kid in this world, either. But if you know where your child is, spiritually, you can help them to grow in the Lord and develop a strong foundation that will support and protect them throughout their lives.
-Pastor Tina Blackburn
Children's Pastor
The question we need to ask ourselves as parents is “At this time, in this dangerous world, do you know where your children are?” Do you know where your children are spiritually? Merely going to Sunday School or attending church on Sundays or Wednesdays does not ensure that your children are where they need to be spiritually. Are you nurturing your child spiritually through prayer and Bible study? Do you discuss life lessons with your children from a Biblical point of view? Is Jesus Christ the priority in your home?
As parents, it is easy to become caught up in the cares of the world. We get swept up into things such as sports, friendships, fashion, video games, academics, dating, toys, music, movies, etc. Our children are tempted with all the latest gadgets and trends, and we often comply in order to help them “fit in”. So much time, energy and money is spent on worldly pursuits. But God’s Word tells us that we shouldn’t be conformed to the world. Jesus said we are to be the light of the world, reflecting His love and a Godly character to those who view us. We should teach our children to be light in the world, not a mirror image of the world. The world needs to see Jesus Christ as the priority in the lives of believers, including children.
Often worldly pursuits take priority over what is most important: the child’s spiritual growth. A friend of mine recently commented that she and her children had not been to church in a while because of their sports schedules. Her defense was “We can’t let their teams down!” But they were willing to neglect the one who died for them to secure their eternal life. Children learn priorities from their parents. Is Jesus Christ the priority in your home?
Deuteronomy 6:5 -7 tells us “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” We must be diligent in teaching our children about God, making God the priority in all of our everyday experiences. It’s not easy parenting children in the world in which we live. It’s not easy to be a kid in this world, either. But if you know where your child is, spiritually, you can help them to grow in the Lord and develop a strong foundation that will support and protect them throughout their lives.
-Pastor Tina Blackburn
Children's Pastor
Sunday, May 10, 2009
JUST AS I AM...
A couple of months back, I was asked to begin teaching a group of middle school kids from the Radford area as part of a ministry group our church does on Tuesday nights. The previous Pastor did a fantastic job week after week giving the kids a series of messages that pertained to the times and culture they currently live in. In my spirit, however, I felt a burden that we needed to teach these kids about the most simplistic, yet most wonderful part of our faith . . . Jesus Christ.
I went back to a time when, as a boy, I received Christ. I was maybe 6 or 7 (I really don’t remember), but I do remember what song was playing that night at church. A simple hymn called Just As I Am. The music was soft and inviting and the words were simple, yet compelled my heart to go forward toward the altar. I heard that song many times as a boy and each time I can remember feeling a need to draw closer to Him.
This song has a note of importance as to its origin. I found this on the internet in several places. The song was written by Miss Charlotte Elliott back in the 1800s:
“Miss Charlotte Elliott was visiting some friends in the West End of London, and there met the eminent minister, César Malan. While seated at supper, the minister said he hoped that she was a Christian. She took offense at this, and replied that she would rather not discuss that question. Dr. Malan said that he was sorry if had offended her, that he always liked to speak a word for his Master, and that he hoped that the young lady would some day become a worker for Christ. When they met again at the home of a mutual friend, three weeks later, Miss Elliott told the minister that ever since he had spoken to her she had been trying to find her Savior, and that she now wished him to tell her how to come to Christ. “Just come to him as you are,” Dr. Malan said. This she did, and went away rejoicing. Shortly afterward she wrote this hymn.”
A couple of weeks before my first lesson with these kids, I found in my dad’s collection of CDs one from a Mennonite Choir. One of the songs was “Just As I Am”. I listened to that CD several times on a business trip to Nashville. Once again, I found myself wanting to draw closer to Him. As I prayed, what was revealed to my spirit was both simple and beautiful. God was telling me to teach these kids to come to Him just as they are.
Today’s generation is bombarded with messages from their home, school and from society that are simply designed to pull them away from God and His standards set in the Bible. They feel that they are unworthy of love or acceptance by God because they are judged for the clothes they wear, the money they have (or lack), their social status or by sinful acts they have committed openly and behind closed doors. Once judgment has been passed by Christians and non-Christians alike, they don’t feel worthy. Much like the story of Charlotte Elliott, they take offense to anyone who genuinely cares for them and is concerned about their spiritual well being. How do we reach them?
When we speak to them about Christ’s love for them, read John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The world includes all of us . . . the good, the bad and the ugly. It includes you, me and all of those who walk the Earth. The key part of this scripture is WHOSOEVER believes in Him . . . any of us, no matter how far from God we are or how unworthy we look in the eyes of others, we can ask Jesus into our hearts. How do we come to Him? . . . Just as we are!
-Pastor Chris Blackburn
Children's Pastor
I went back to a time when, as a boy, I received Christ. I was maybe 6 or 7 (I really don’t remember), but I do remember what song was playing that night at church. A simple hymn called Just As I Am. The music was soft and inviting and the words were simple, yet compelled my heart to go forward toward the altar. I heard that song many times as a boy and each time I can remember feeling a need to draw closer to Him.
This song has a note of importance as to its origin. I found this on the internet in several places. The song was written by Miss Charlotte Elliott back in the 1800s:
“Miss Charlotte Elliott was visiting some friends in the West End of London, and there met the eminent minister, César Malan. While seated at supper, the minister said he hoped that she was a Christian. She took offense at this, and replied that she would rather not discuss that question. Dr. Malan said that he was sorry if had offended her, that he always liked to speak a word for his Master, and that he hoped that the young lady would some day become a worker for Christ. When they met again at the home of a mutual friend, three weeks later, Miss Elliott told the minister that ever since he had spoken to her she had been trying to find her Savior, and that she now wished him to tell her how to come to Christ. “Just come to him as you are,” Dr. Malan said. This she did, and went away rejoicing. Shortly afterward she wrote this hymn.”
A couple of weeks before my first lesson with these kids, I found in my dad’s collection of CDs one from a Mennonite Choir. One of the songs was “Just As I Am”. I listened to that CD several times on a business trip to Nashville. Once again, I found myself wanting to draw closer to Him. As I prayed, what was revealed to my spirit was both simple and beautiful. God was telling me to teach these kids to come to Him just as they are.
Today’s generation is bombarded with messages from their home, school and from society that are simply designed to pull them away from God and His standards set in the Bible. They feel that they are unworthy of love or acceptance by God because they are judged for the clothes they wear, the money they have (or lack), their social status or by sinful acts they have committed openly and behind closed doors. Once judgment has been passed by Christians and non-Christians alike, they don’t feel worthy. Much like the story of Charlotte Elliott, they take offense to anyone who genuinely cares for them and is concerned about their spiritual well being. How do we reach them?
When we speak to them about Christ’s love for them, read John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The world includes all of us . . . the good, the bad and the ugly. It includes you, me and all of those who walk the Earth. The key part of this scripture is WHOSOEVER believes in Him . . . any of us, no matter how far from God we are or how unworthy we look in the eyes of others, we can ask Jesus into our hearts. How do we come to Him? . . . Just as we are!
-Pastor Chris Blackburn
Children's Pastor
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Moanhood Or Motherhood? Part 1
“Who can find a virtuous woman for her price is far above rubies.”Proverbs 31:10I am often drawn to this text as I pray for God to mold me into the woman He desires me to be, no matter how much against the stream of normalcy it seems. My Interlinear Bible, which is translated directly from the Hebrew, inspires me when I read, “Who can find an able woman? For her value is far above jewels.” The word “able” hit me with a giant thud. “Able” means to have power.
As mothers and wives we often spend wasted brain space mulling over just the opposite. Do these words sound familiar? “I can’t do it anymore!” “I don’t have the energy!” “I’m drained! I have nothing more to give.” “I’m too tired! I’m completely exhausted and wasted. I can’t do one more thing!” We talk ourselves out of any last vestige of energy, and by the power of our minds we feel even more tired than we really are! “Honey, not tonight! Actually I’ve got a headache. No, it’s a migraine.” “Oh, I just need some time for myself.” “I feel so used. Nobody appreciates what I do around here.” “I’ve got to get out. I’ve got cabin fever.” “I didn’t get a good sleep last night. Come to think of it, I never get a good sleep. It’s all making me old before my time. I found a new wrinkle this morning.”
Ugh! This is putting me in the doldrums just writing about it!
How can our husband value us more than jewels when our lives are one big complaint?
It is true that we talk ourselves into more than half of our problems. How can we be “able” women and how can our husbands and children truly value us above jewels when our lives are one big complaint? I believe the key to being “able” is more about being positive in Christ on the word than it is about all the talent and intellect we can possess.
How can we be positive mothers when we have made a career of being professional moaners?
Have we embraced moanhood instead of motherhood? Just as negativity is a habit, so is a positive and happy heart. The more we think on the good things, the more they become naturally part of our nature. The negative muscles become floppy, weak and slowly deteriorate when we don’t use them. Philippians 4:8 tells us to think on things that are pure and lovely. If we make a habit of thinking about the lovely things, in turn, our lives will be a lot lovelier.
We can become negative by worrying about the future. We may dwell today on all the work we have to do tomorrow or even in the months to come. Again, the wisdom of the Bible frees our minds and makes for a happy mother when it says, “Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:34)
God is very interested in our thought-life and in the confessions of our lips. Here are just a few quotes:
“A merry heart does good like medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22)
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21)
“Gird up the loins of your mind.” (1 Peter 1:13)
A positive mind set in Christ breathes life into our souls and bodies and gives us energy. Satan is too eager to plant seeds of negativity into our minds because he knows they are seeds of death and make us unable. Negativity is based upon fear, which chokes the very life out of its victims and renders them practically immobile. Negativity holds us captive in a prison of gloom. Being positive frees us to succeed and thrive. Some people see their negative outlook as being realistic. This is another trap of the enemy; a smoke screen to blind us to the truth that will set us free to really live and enjoy life.
To Be Continued...
-Edith Osterbauer
As mothers and wives we often spend wasted brain space mulling over just the opposite. Do these words sound familiar? “I can’t do it anymore!” “I don’t have the energy!” “I’m drained! I have nothing more to give.” “I’m too tired! I’m completely exhausted and wasted. I can’t do one more thing!” We talk ourselves out of any last vestige of energy, and by the power of our minds we feel even more tired than we really are! “Honey, not tonight! Actually I’ve got a headache. No, it’s a migraine.” “Oh, I just need some time for myself.” “I feel so used. Nobody appreciates what I do around here.” “I’ve got to get out. I’ve got cabin fever.” “I didn’t get a good sleep last night. Come to think of it, I never get a good sleep. It’s all making me old before my time. I found a new wrinkle this morning.”
Ugh! This is putting me in the doldrums just writing about it!
How can our husband value us more than jewels when our lives are one big complaint?
It is true that we talk ourselves into more than half of our problems. How can we be “able” women and how can our husbands and children truly value us above jewels when our lives are one big complaint? I believe the key to being “able” is more about being positive in Christ on the word than it is about all the talent and intellect we can possess.
How can we be positive mothers when we have made a career of being professional moaners?
Have we embraced moanhood instead of motherhood? Just as negativity is a habit, so is a positive and happy heart. The more we think on the good things, the more they become naturally part of our nature. The negative muscles become floppy, weak and slowly deteriorate when we don’t use them. Philippians 4:8 tells us to think on things that are pure and lovely. If we make a habit of thinking about the lovely things, in turn, our lives will be a lot lovelier.
We can become negative by worrying about the future. We may dwell today on all the work we have to do tomorrow or even in the months to come. Again, the wisdom of the Bible frees our minds and makes for a happy mother when it says, “Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:34)
God is very interested in our thought-life and in the confessions of our lips. Here are just a few quotes:
“A merry heart does good like medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22)
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21)
“Gird up the loins of your mind.” (1 Peter 1:13)
A positive mind set in Christ breathes life into our souls and bodies and gives us energy. Satan is too eager to plant seeds of negativity into our minds because he knows they are seeds of death and make us unable. Negativity is based upon fear, which chokes the very life out of its victims and renders them practically immobile. Negativity holds us captive in a prison of gloom. Being positive frees us to succeed and thrive. Some people see their negative outlook as being realistic. This is another trap of the enemy; a smoke screen to blind us to the truth that will set us free to really live and enjoy life.
To Be Continued...
-Edith Osterbauer
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Images...
From movies, music videos, magazines, and television, media is bombarding children with images they deem perfect. Children in turn are believing these deceptions and comparing themselves to them. They do not know of the surgeries, constant unhealthy diets, and even photo touch ups used to make these "superstars" look unblemished.
While studying this topic for Missionettes, I found these scriptures to try and combat the attack of these lies. Some are celebrating our differences and remind us of who created us.
So God created humans in His image. In the image of God He created them, male and female. (Gen. 1:27)
Each person has a special gift from God and these gifts vary from person to person. (1 Cor. 7:7)
You are
Light for the world. (Matt. 5:14)
Beauty doesn't come
From hairstyles, gold jewelry, or clothes. Rather, beauty is something internal that can't be destroyed. (1 Pet. 3:3-4)
I will give thanks to You because I have been amazingly and miraculously made. (Ps. 139:14)
God has
Made us what we are. He has created us in Christ Jesus to live lives filled with good works that he has prepared for us to do. (Eph. 2:10)
Do not be
Afraid,... I have called you by name and you are mine. (Is. 43:1)
God saw everything He had made and that is was good. (Gen. 1:31)
Even one star differs in splendor from another star. (1 Cor. 15:41b)
The Children's Ministry team at Radford Worship Center has agreed to help encourage our young ladies in this area by hosting a "SPA Day" for school age girls, kindergarten to sixth grade. We have not set a date other than after school is out for the summer. If there are any women that can style hair? Wash feet? Paint fingernails? Fix salads? How about lead aerobics? Encourage these young ladies? Read the Bible? Pray? Or maybe you have a special talent not mentioned that you want to share? Please contact Susie Hickman or Pastor Tina Blackburn.
- Susie Hickman
Missionette Director
A Ministry to Girls
While studying this topic for Missionettes, I found these scriptures to try and combat the attack of these lies. Some are celebrating our differences and remind us of who created us.
So God created humans in His image. In the image of God He created them, male and female. (Gen. 1:27)
Each person has a special gift from God and these gifts vary from person to person. (1 Cor. 7:7)
You are
Light for the world. (Matt. 5:14)
Beauty doesn't come
From hairstyles, gold jewelry, or clothes. Rather, beauty is something internal that can't be destroyed. (1 Pet. 3:3-4)
I will give thanks to You because I have been amazingly and miraculously made. (Ps. 139:14)
God has
Made us what we are. He has created us in Christ Jesus to live lives filled with good works that he has prepared for us to do. (Eph. 2:10)
Do not be
Afraid,... I have called you by name and you are mine. (Is. 43:1)
God saw everything He had made and that is was good. (Gen. 1:31)
Even one star differs in splendor from another star. (1 Cor. 15:41b)
The Children's Ministry team at Radford Worship Center has agreed to help encourage our young ladies in this area by hosting a "SPA Day" for school age girls, kindergarten to sixth grade. We have not set a date other than after school is out for the summer. If there are any women that can style hair? Wash feet? Paint fingernails? Fix salads? How about lead aerobics? Encourage these young ladies? Read the Bible? Pray? Or maybe you have a special talent not mentioned that you want to share? Please contact Susie Hickman or Pastor Tina Blackburn.
- Susie Hickman
Missionette Director
A Ministry to Girls
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