20
The Ambassador 1 January 2015 Jim Denison (Denisonforum.org) As a boy, I recited the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of every school day. I’ve said these words thousands of times: “One Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” How true are they today? Are we “one nation under God”? Fifty years ago, America’s religious landscape was dominated by Protestants and Catholics. But as Diane Eck shows in A New Religious America, the U.S. is now the world’s most religiously diverse nation. This diversity can be traced back to 1965, when Lyndon Johnson signed a new immigration law that led to a significant surge of immigrants. As a result, Muslims in America now outnumber Jews, Episcopalians, and Presbyterians. In addition, our nation has seen a tremendous upsurge in those with no religious affiliation. In 1948, 69 percent of Americans were Protestants; today their number has fallen to 48 percent. Catholics are stable, growing from 22 percent to 24 percent. But those who have no religion have grown from two percent to 15 percent, the largest number in history. And the “unaffiliated” are apparently our future: three times more Americans are becoming “unaffiliated” than those leaving that category to join religious organizations. Nearly one in five men have no formal religious affiliation. Seventy-one percent of the unaffiliated are under the age of 50. Are we “indivisible”? Partisan politics in America are more heated than ever. For both Republicans and Democrats, the number with a highly negative view of the opposing party has more than doubled in the last 20 years. Most of these intense partisans are convinced that the other party’s policies “are so misguided that they threaten the nation’s well-being.” Social issues reveal the ideological chasm in our nation. For instance, 28 percent of Americans believe abortion should be legal under any circumstance; 21 percent believe it should be illegal in all circumstances; and 50 percent believe it should be legal only under certain circumstances. While 55 percent of Americans now support same-sex marriage, 42 percent are still opposed. Forty-two percent CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 FEATHER RIVER MEN’S CENTER BANQUET January 30th Page 8 SEX TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH PAGE 16

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Page 1: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

The Ambassador 1

January 2015

Jim Denison (Denisonforum.org)As a boy, I recited the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of every school day. I’ve said these words thousands of times: “One Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” How true are they today?

Are we “one nation under God”?

Fifty years ago, America’s religious landscape was dominated by Protestants and Catholics. But as Diane Eck shows in A New Religious America, the U.S. is now the world’s most religiously diverse nation.

This diversity can be traced back to 1965, when Lyndon Johnson signed a new immigration law that led to a significant surge of immigrants. As a result, Muslims in America now outnumber Jews, Episcopalians, and Presbyterians.

In addition, our nation has seen a tremendous upsurge in those with no religious affiliation. In 1948, 69 percent of Americans were Protestants; today their number has fallen to 48 percent. Catholics are stable, growing from 22 percent to 24 percent. But those who have no religion have grown from two percent to 15 percent, the largest number in

history.

And the “unaffiliated” are apparently our future: three times more Americans are becoming “unaffiliated” than those leaving that category to join religious organizations. Nearly one in five men have no formal religious affiliation. Seventy-one percent of the unaffiliated are under the age of 50.

Are we “indivisible”?

Partisan politics in America are more heated than ever. For both Republicans and Democrats, the number with a highly negative view of the opposing party has more than doubled in the

last 20 years. Most of these intense partisans are convinced that the other party’s policies “are so misguided that they threaten the nation’s well-being.”

Social issues reveal the ideological chasm in our nation. For instance, 28 percent of Americans believe abortion should be legal under any circumstance; 21 percent believe it should be illegal in all circumstances; and 50 percent believe it should be legal only under certain circumstances. While 55 percent of Americans now support same-sex marriage, 42 percent are still opposed. Forty-two percent

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

FEATHER RIVER MEN’S CENTER BANQUETJanuary 30th

Page 8

SEX TRAFFICKINGPREVENTION MONTH

PAGE 16

Page 2: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

The Voice of the Christian Community, Serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties

The Ambassador2

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The Ambassador

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MINISTRIES

THE AMBASSADOR

Editor/Publisher - Seth Halpern - Advisory - Dave Kugelman - Design - Teresa Davis

?The Ambassador is a free, monthly publication promoting unity and revival among the local Yuba-Sutter area Bible-believing churches.?The Ambassador has a circulation of 6,000 - 7,500 and is distributed in local churches and businesses in the community.?The purpose of The Ambassador is to pursue the great commission of Christ by making disciples and to encourage, inform, challenge and connect the local body of Christ.?We believe in the inspiration and authority of the Bible as the written word of God. We believe that God exists as One, in three distinct persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.?We believe that the atoning work of Christ (His death) on the cross and His resurrection is the ONLY means of salvation and the only way to Eternal Life in Heaven.?We welcome editorial content from anyone wishing to promote the mission of The Ambassador. All articles and advertisement content is subject to the approval of the editor. Views expressed in The Ambassador do not necessarily reflect those of our sponsors or advertisers

The Bride Church655 Colusa Hwy, YC

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Agape LighthouseCommunity Church2106 Pepper Street, Sutter

Pastor BJ Wilson530-237-6351

Word of Life Church1229 Buchanan Street, Marysville

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The Ambassador

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

By Mark EllisBlog.Godreports.com As a 19-year-old lifeguard in Laguna Beach, California he was living the lifestyle many only dream about. “In the beginning, everything was a new adventure that reminded me of stories I had read as young kid,” says Dale Ghere. In his free time he dove for abalones, lobsters, clams and halibut. He also pushed beyond his comfort zone with night dives, swimming through blowholes, and making rock rescues. By the middle of his first summer as a lifeguard stationed at St. Ann’s Street, he was so excited about the beach he decided he would drop out of college and go to Hawaii to surf for several months. Then he would return home, buy a car, and hit the road to spend a year on the beach. Then the unexpected happened. “I saw a small kid standing to the left of

my lifeguard tower just fall over like he had been hit by a freight train,” Dale recounts. “As I turned to look at him I was suddenly hit on the side of the head so hard I was knocked out of my tower and into the sand.” Hit by a water balloon with surprising force, he fell eight feet to the sand, unconscious. When Dale woke up he realized he was blind in his left eye. Locals at the beach called for help and he was transported to a police station and then to the hospital. “While at the police station I can remember looking in the mirror on the cigarette machine. I could see the blood pooled in front of the pupil. As I twisted my head from side to side I could watch the blood move back and forth with my right eye. I was really scared,” he recalls. When he arrived to the hospital the doctor wrapped his eyes and told him to hold his head still. Then Dale got some jolting news. “He said there was nothing that could be done medically to save the eye. The only hope was that if I held still for two weeks then the blood might be

Lifeguard blinded by unseen prankster, God arranges forgiveness 15 years later

Page 5: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

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5

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By Paula McBrideHogar Para Ninos, Vicente Guerrero, Mexico

Kids like rocks. Recently, while walking in the prayer garden with one of the mission toddlers, I observed the fascination. Fifteen-month-old Caleb roamed the walkways with a rock in each tiny hand, utterly delighted with his treasures. Lots of people like rocks. Boys have rocks in rows on their bookshelves. Collectors go to conventions and swap meets to meet with like minded people and search for the perfect addition to their collections. Jewelers like the stones that are polished into gems. There’s quite a collection of rock stories in the Bible. Jacob used a rock for a pillow, the Israelites set twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan when they crossed into the promised land. Altars were built of rough stones, and capital punishment was done with stones. David put five stones in his pocket and used one to kill Goliath. The wise man built his house on a rock. God is called our Rock and our fortress, and Jesus is called the stone we stumble on. Peter’s name means

rock. You could add many more rock references to this collection. Revelation 2:17 speaks of a stone that particularly intrigues me. “...to him who overcomes...I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.” I had read this passage before, but this time the fact that the stone was white jumped out at me. Here’s what I learned about white stones and what they could symbolize. In ancient days, a person pressed with charges could sometimes be bailed out by a family member who bought a white stone and gave it to the accuser as a special token. As the stone was received, the case would be closed, and there would be

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

A ROCKY SUBJECTBy April James

As we begin a new year, we do not know all it holds. One might say it is the grace of God that we do not fully see, lest we grow faint in heart or in our zeal, run ahead of God’s timing. We may have wonderful plans and goals we want to accomplish; perhaps a dream vacation, welcoming a newborn, graduating, embarking on a new career, or celebrating a milestone in life. We may not know what the future holds, but we know who holds our future. Let us turn doubts and fears into hopeful expectation in the goodness of God. As we shake off 2014 and embrace 2015, there are things we can be certain of in uncertain times, during political unrest and upheavals in the world. God’s love for us is eternal, nothing in heaven or on earth can separate us form His love, He has promised to never leave or abandon us and God still sits on the throne. So let not our heart be troubled neither let it be afraid; instead take the peace of Jesus, that peace he left with us, as we boldly venture into the year ahead. As we begin a new year, let’s commit to a spiritual fitness regimen. To stir

up a holy hunger for the things of God, to know the Master, our Creator, the Lover of our soul more intimately. To ascend into His heart of love, to know the fullness of who He is, who He has created us to be, to not shortchange ourselves of Him or Him of ourselves. Let’s take time to step away from the busyness in our lives in order to sit at the feet of Jesus, spending quiet time with Him getting to know and hear His heart, and be filled with His pure love. As we spend time in His presence and in His word (the Bible) we are refreshed, we get our bearings, are strengthened and nourished; there we cultivate a hunger and thirst after the One who alone can satisfy the longing inside. He alone can rejuvenate us body, soul and spirit, that we may be able to run the race set before us with steadfastness. May we come into a deeper understanding of the amazing grace of Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God and have an intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit. May mercy, peace and love be ours in abundance. May we be life changers as we know and share the love, hope, and joy of Jesus Christ with those we meet daily in life.

• BEHOLDING 2015 •

Page 6: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

The Voice of the Christian Community, Serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties

The Ambassador6

FREE BIBLE COLLEGE CLASSESFirst Baptist Church of Olivehurst 1777 8th Ave., Olivehurst Wednesday Mornings 10:00 AM Starting in January 2015 you can earn an accredited bible college degree … all books are in public domain and you only need a tablet, computer or some type of electronic reader. We can print them out for a small charge. You will need a King James Bible to get started. ENROLL [email protected] for more information.

•PRAYEREvery Tues, Wed & Thur, 7:00 PMEmbassy of Heaven CampusChurch of Glad Tidings1179 Eager Road, Yuba City530-671-3160“My house shall be called a house of prayer.” (Matt. 21:13). The church today in is an all out war against the evils of darkness. The body of Christ is called to step up and be aggressive in their prayer life.

•DIVORCE CAREWednesdays 7:00 - 8:30pmEmbassy of Heaven CampusChurch of Glad Tidings - Bldg 5001179 Eager Road, YC (Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd)Info: 530-671-3160 [email protected] Care is a divorce recovery support group where you can find help and healing from the hurt of separation or divorce. Weekly meetings provide you with an ongoing “support team” as you deal with the issues surrounding your separation or divorce. You’ll learn how to deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life.

FOOD ADDICTS IN RECOVERYF.I.R. Building: 723 D St., Msvl7-8:30 p.m.Food Addiction: Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free Twelve Step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating, or bulimia. Meetings are held Tuesday at F.I.R. www.foodaddicts.org or call (503)960-5850

•CELEBRATE RECOVERYPraise Chapel Church - Sun. 6:30 p.m.Join us for great worship and open share group.For more info call 530-923-7204

WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COMCALENDAR•CRAFTSMEN FOR CHRISTThe Bride Church, 655 Colusa Hwy, YCMeets every Tuesday at 6:30pm Men’s fellowship around the word and worship. All in the Body of Christ welcome!

•AHOPAscending House of PrayerEvery Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday6:00 - 9:00 PMEmbassy of Heaven CampusChurch of Glad Tidings1179 Eager Road, Yuba City530-671-3160Praying and preparing for a new Jesus Movement, raising the Life of the glory of God in the face of Christ in America and in the nations. Come join us and experience the richness of His Love!

CELEBRATE RECOVERYCrossroads Community ChurchMondays 6:30pm-8:30pmWe are a Christ-Centered recovery group that provides a safe place to share your struggles,experiences, victories, and hopes with others who are also going through to Christ_Centered recovery. For more info call 530.755.4149. Follow us on Facebook @ Celebrate Recovery Crossroads Community Church

•SATURDAY NIGHT SERVICEWord Of Life Church 1229 Buchanan Street, Marysville6:30pmContemporary Worship led by Leanne Whitley & Robbie JellseyRelevant & Anointed Preaching- Pastor Stan Reynolds

•ENCOUNTERING GOD9:30 - 11:30 AMEvery Tuesday MorningEmbassy of Heaven Campus1179 Eager Rd., Yuba City(Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd.)530-671-3160www.churchofgladtidings.comOur Tuesday morning meetings begin with a time of worship. Afterwards we rely on the Holy Spirit to lead us to minister to each other, encourage each other, and build our hunger and desire for the things of God. Childcare is provided.

AWANAWed 5:45-7:45pm during school yearEvangelical Free Church3785 Olive Hwy. OrovilleFor information please call 533-6866Awana is a boys & girls club consisting of small group time, games, large group time.

PRAYER VIGIL FOR LIFE!Yuba-Sutter Right to Life is hosting peaceful, prayerful vigils in front of the Yuba City Planned Parenthood. All you need to participate is one hour and the desire to pray for LIFE. Please contact Heather Pugh at 751-9349 for date and time if you are interested.

CROSSROADS CLOTHES CLOSETCrossroads Community Church, YCShop at our - FREE Clothes given away! Open Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm

KNIT & CROCHET WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIPFirst Baptist Church of Olivehurst, 1777 - 8th Ave.Mon 10am - NoonPractice your yarn craft or learn a new one with us. Knifty Knitters are welcome. Bring your own project or work on a charity item that we donate to those in need in the community. Email [email protected] for info.

•CHRISTIAN BUSINESS ALLIANCE LUNCHEONEvery 1st Tue @ NoonBonanza Inn, Yuba CityJoin us for Lunch, Fellowship and God’s Word! For info contact Dave Kugelman 530-632-9292

FREE KARATE CLASSESFirst Baptist Church of OlivehurstMon 5:30pmFREE karate classes taught from a Christian perspective. 743-1831 for info, Pastor Miguel.

•SAMARITAN VILLAGE MONTHLY MEETING3rd Tue of each month, 6:30pmThis meeting is open to all who are interested in helping with an orphanage in Tanzania. For info call Victor Savage at 671-2219.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY Loma Rica Community Church- Moy Hall. Fri., 7pm.Call church office for more information 743-5435

Join us from noon to 1pm

at the Bonanza Innthe first Tuesday of

every month for a time of encouragement,

fellowship and prayer with the

Christian Business Alliance.

All Are Welcome!

Ongoing Events•BETHESDA HEALING WELLSaturday, January 17th at 10:00 AMEmbassy of Heaven CampusChurch of Glad Tidings - Bldg 2001179 Eager Road, Yuba CityInfo: Ed Han 209-298-6102Gathering for a time of soaking in God’s presence and then spending time to receive focused prayer for healing.

LIFE @ HOPE POINTHope Point Nazarene 600 N. George Washington Blvd, YCWednesday @ 6:30pm for kids, 7pm for adultsJoin us for Life@Hope Point - groups for Nursery through High School ages and classes for adults - Parenting, How to Study your Bible, more so contact the church office at 671-1130 for more details.

•WOMENS CLOTHES CLOSETTwin Cities Rescue Mission, 940 14th Street, MarysvilleMon,Tue,Thu,Fri 8am-NoonWe now have a womens clothes closet at the mission! It is free and available to everyone. We accept donations Monday-Sunday of women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing!

Have an event coming up?...

SEND IT TO USTO SPREAD THE WORD!

[email protected]

Page 7: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

The Voice of the Christian Community, serving Yuba, Sutter, and Butte Counties

The Ambassador 7

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R.E.S.T HOMELESS SHELTER PROGRAM TRAININGMonday, January 12th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PMRiver Valley Christian Fellowship1764 Tierra Buena Rd, Yuba City If you would like to participate in helping homeless women and families during these cold winter days please come to the last training of this winter season.Any interested parties should call Tamie at (530) 923-0263

GARDEN GETAWAY ONE-DAY WOMEN’S RETREATFirst Lutheran Church, 850 Cooper Avenue, Yuba CitySaturday, January 17,– 8:30 am-4:00 pm “Garden Getaway: Where Women Walk with God” is based on Ecclesiastes 3. We’ll learn about God’s timing in our lives and the good news that God’s always here to walk with us. Cost is $20 and includes lunch, snacks and a participant’s guide. To register or learn more, call 673-8894.

FEATHER RIVER MEN’S CENTERAnnual Fundraising DinnerJanuary 30, 6:30 PMThe Embassy of Heaven CampusChurch of Glad Tidings1179 Eager Road, Yuba City(Hwy 99 @ Eager Rd.)Info: 530-695-8006 or www.frmc-ca.comTickets available at Church of Glad Tidings, Crosspointe Christian Books & Gifts and The Father’s House. Cost: $20 or $175 for a table of 10. All proceeds benefit Feather River Men’s Center - a residential addiction treatment center changing lives in our area.

“AUTHORITY TO HEAL” MINISTRY SEMINARThe Father’s House – 10720 Live Oak Blvd/HWY 99, Live Oak, Friday, February 6th 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 7th 9 – 4 p.m.The Bible speaks about the power of God in Jesus Christ to heal. In this seminar presented by Sierra Ministries you will become equipped in the biblical principles of Healing Ministry. This is a two day event, to register or for more information visit www.sierraministries.org.

TERRY BENNETTEmbassy of Heaven CampusChurch of Glad Tidings1179 Eager Road, Yuba CityFri, Feb 6 & Sat, Feb 7 - 7:00 PMSunday, Feb 8- 10:00 AMInfo: 530-671-3160 www.churchofgladtidings.comTerry has traveled extensively since the late 90”s both internationally and across the United States ministering in churches, conferences, and to individuals to encourage them in knowing the Lord and living in His love.

RESTORATION RAILROAD FILM SCREENING OF “VERY YOUNG GIRLS” PRODUCED BY GEMSHope Point Nazarene Church, 600 N George Washington Blvd.,YC.Monday, January 26, 7-8:30 PM“Very Young Girls” will change the way law enforcement, the media and society as a whole look at the commercial sexual exploitation, street prostitution, and human trafficking that is happening right in our own backyard.” – GEMS Join us for this powerful film and learn what is being done to fight human trafficking in Yuba-Sutter

Prayer Calendar for January 20156-Jan New Year Spiritual Growth- for personal renewal 7-Jan Cold/Winter Challenges across the nation 8-Jan MLK Day- Pray for race relations 9-Jan Adoptive families & birth moms - Lifetime Adoption (p.3) 10-Jan Local Pastors and their families 11-Jan Orphan children- Samaritan Village (see p. 3) and other orphanages 12-Jan Military, All armed forces & their families. 13-Jan Addicted, Rehab ministries- Feather River Mens Center, Joshua House, Celebrate Recovery 14-Jan Teen Depression, Suicide 15-Jan Children and Children’s Ministries 16-Jan Local schools - Teachers and Students 17-Jan Christian Businesses-Ambassador Sponsors & others. 18-Jan Missionaries -Fruit, Provision 19-Jan Sex Trafficking - pray for victims (see p. 16) 20-Jan Marketplace Ministries -Opportunities to share at work 21-Jan The Ambassador Newspaper-Increased readership and Impact 22-Jan A Woman’s Friend - Unborn children/Pregnant Women 23-Jan Global Persecution-Safety/Courage of Believers 24-Jan Local officials and community leaders 25-Jan Middle East - For the peace of Jerusalem 26-Jan R.E.S.T Shelter program- for volunteers & warmth for homeless 27-Jan Homeless/Poor - Twin Cities Rescue Mission, A Hand Up, Salvation Army 28-Jan Local ministries (see p. 3) 29-Jan Unity in and among local churches 30-Jan FRMC Banquet - see back page for info 31-Jan Sick/Afflicted, Healing and Comfort 1-Feb Singles, Single Parents, Divorce healing 2-Feb Caregivers of elderly and disabled 3-Feb First Responders-Police, Firefighters, EMT, TIP 4-Feb Marriages, Restoration and Strength Sex Trafficking - pray for victims and their victimizers

Page 8: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

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The Ambassador

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By Steve Gilliss

Addictions, whether to drugs or alcohol, disrupt or destroy not only the addict -but family and friends as well. A local ministry, the Feather River Men’s Center (FRMC), was formed in 1991 with hopes of circumventing this destructive cycle. The FRMC is a (non-profit) Christ-based, state licensed men’s recovery home originally patterned after the Teen Challenge model. With rare exceptions based on the individual, the “student” commits to the one-year program. While predominantly serving the needs of the Yuba-Sutter community, men have come to the center from as far away as Wyoming. “Addiction is everywhere these days”, states Executive Director James Harrison. “Sometimes men need a fresh start in an area where they know no one. Most of the time however, the men prefer to remain in this area due to family & relational ties”. Harrison, a graduate himself 23 years ago, has experienced the full spectrum of emotions while overseeing the center; the joy of seeing a man restored as a

loving husband, father & son to the disappointment of watching some men return to previous addictions and lifestyles. Volunteer staff and board of directors are comprised of men (and woman) who strongly believe in God’s heart for restoration. Harrison adds, “Seeing a man re-united with his wife, children & family is the higher goal”. A typical day in the life of a FRMC student sees the men rise early to breakfast, devotions & bible study. The men then set out to various jobsites as directed by project manager, Frank Weger. A graduate himself from the program four years ago, Weger not only directs the daily workforce of the FRMC, but serves as mentor as well. Evenings are spent on preparing dinner, house-chores and a variety of spiritual activities. At bed-time, reading & prayer are encouraged. Students also meet weekly with mentors, with a focused emphasis on the spiritual barometer of the student. The challenges of operating a 12-bed recovery home extend beyond the concentrated efforts of restoration; a

down-turn in the national (and local) economy has impacted traditional giving to ministries such as the Feather River Men’s Center. And while the “Work Partnership Program” instills positive job skills into the student, the donations provided as a result of the work performed is vital to the center’s operational capabilities. Today, the FRMC three predominant methods of revenue are via 1) private & corporate sponsorship, 2) the Work Partnership Program and 3) external activities such as the “Western Hoedown” held at the Handy’s Butte Star Ranch in Sutter. Another fundraising mechanism is the annual banquet. This year’s banquet, to be

held at the Church of Glad Tidings on January 30, 2015, will include a sumptuous tri-tip dinner, worship, raffle & door prizes. The featured speakers will be; Amanda Hopper (Sutter County District Attorney) and (Detective) Jason Parker. Individual and/or table tickets for the banquet are available at the Church of Glad Tidings, The Father’s House (Live Oak) and Crosspointe Christian Books & Gifts. (Also see flyer ad in this edition of The Ambassador).

If you should desire additional information on any aspect of the FRMC, please call the administrative office at (530) 695-8006.

FEATHER RIVER MEN’S CENTER

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Name: Carol Dodds

Position: Executive Director, A Woman’s Friend Pregnancy Resource Clinic

Home Church: Peach Tree Lane, Church of Christ

Family: mom, Jeana McClintock; son, Travis Dodds; in Houston: sister Catherine Henderson, her husband Luther Henderson and their son John Henderson.

Years in Yuba/Sutter: Coming up on 13 years; moved here on Groundhog Day, 2002.

Previous places I’ve lived: Born in New Orleans, moved to Houston at age 10, college in Abilene and Amarillo; moved to California at age 26, Santa Rosa, Salinas and San Jose.

Favorite place I’ve visited: Hard to say! Most memorable was Montreux, Switzerland and the Castle of Chillon, but just as memorable are the central California coast (Monterey) and missions (Carmel, San Antonio).

Life Verse/Quote/Motto: Proverbs 31:30 “Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.”

Prior Occupation: Music Therapist

Favorite book (other than the Bible): Crime & Punishment (Dostoevsky)

Favorite Movie or Movie Genre: anything with Bogie and Bacall

Inspiring Person/Role Model: Other than Jesus Christ, my sister Catherine. She is fiercely loyal, and a passionate, driven servant of Jesus Christ. She is beautiful, inquisitive, and full of joy!

“Human”(embarrassing) moment: I conveniently forget such things!

My Hobbies: I haven’t had much time for hobbies as a single mom, but with my little bundle of joy away at college now, I am rediscovering free time. I enjoy engaging in local politics; playing piano and clarinet, singing; working Thomas Kinkade jigsaw puzzles; reading history and political books; researching conspiracy theories; and traveling (especially to historic places).

Something unique/unusual you may not know about me: I have my amateur radio license and am looking forward to acquiring equipment and getting involved with the HAM club.

Message to the Community: Stop shaking your head about “it” and start doing something about it.

In James 1:23-25, the brother of Jesus writes, “Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does.”

Community Leader ProfileChoose for your tribes wise, understanding, and experienced men, and I will appoint them as your heads.’ Deuteronomy 1:13

English Standard Version (ESV)

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Sun. Jan. 18 • 2pm MLK DAY

Mon. Jan. 19 • 2pmTickets available at the Sleep Train Arena box office,

by phone at 800-745-3000 and online at Ticketmaster.comGroups of 10+ Save on Tickets! Call CJ at 800-641-4667 x119 for details.

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As we approach (this month’s 42nd) anniversary of the infamous Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision, churches in my tradition will observe Sanctity of Human Life Sunday. I hate that we have to. Let me explain why. Don’t get me wrong. I think it’s a joy to preach the whole counsel of God. And I love the truth of human dignity and the image of God in all persons. But it makes me sad. I don’t hate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday because I think it, somehow, unbiblical. No, indeed. The entire canon throbs with God’s commitment to the fatherless and to the widows, his wrath at the shedding of innocent blood. I don’t hate it because I think it’s inappropriate. Just as every Lord’s Day should be Easter, with the proclamation of the Resurrection of Jesus, and Christmas, with the announcement of the Incarnation, so every Lord’s Day should highlight the worth and dignity of human life. I hate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday because I’m reminded that we have to say things to one another that human beings shouldn’t have to say. Mothers shouldn’t kill their children. Fathers shouldn’t

abandon their babies. No human life is worthless, regardless of skin color, age, disability, economic status. The very fact that these things must be proclaimed is a reminder of the horrors of this present darkness. One year on Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, as I opened the Bible to preach, I looked out and caught the eye of my sons. I prayed that their children wouldn’t have to hear a sermon against abortion and euthanasia. I prayed that my grandchildren and great-grandchildren would grow up in an age when abortion is, as the Feminists for Life organization put is some years ago, not just illegal but unthinkable. I prayed for my (yet to be conceived but not yet to be conceived of) great-grandchildren that a Sanctity of Human Life Sunday would seem as unnecessary to them as a Reality of Gravity Emphasis Sunday. I hate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday because I’m reminded that as I’m preaching there are babies warmly nestled in wombs who won’t be there tomorrow. I’m reminded that there are children, maybe even blocks from my pulpit, who’ll be slapped, punched, and burned

CONTINUE ON PAGE 15

Why I Hate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday (and Why I Love It Too)

By Thom Rainerthomrainer.com

If you really want to hurt your pastor, then this article is for you. This past week alone, I had conversations with dozens of pastors. These pastors love their churches and the members. They are really committed to their callings. But they are real people who can really be hurt. The pastors I spoke with this past week shared with me seven common themes of the things that hurt them the most. So, if you really want to hurt your pastor, follow these guidelines carefully. 1. Criticize the pastor’s family. Few things are as painful to pastors as criticizing their families, especially if the criticisms are related to issues in the church. 2. Tell the pastor he is overpaid. Very few pastors really make much money. But there are a number of church members who would like to make the pastor feel badly about his pay. 3. Don’t defend the pastor. Critics can be hurtful. But even more hurtful are those who remain silent while their pastor is verbally attacked. Silence is not golden in this case. 4. Tell your pastor what an easy job he

has. It can really sting when someone suggests that the pastor really only works about 10 hours a week. Some actually believe that pastors have several days a week off. 5. Be a constant naysayer. Pastors can usually handle the occasional critic. But the truly painful relationships are with church members who are constantly negative. How do you know you’ve succeeded in this regard? The pastor runs the other way when he sees you. 6. Make comments about the pastor’s expenditures. I heard it from a pastor this past week. A church member asked, “How can you afford to go to Disney World?” Wow. 7. Compare your pastor’s preaching and ministry unfavorably to that of another pastor. Many times, the member wants you to know how much he or she likes that pastor on the podcast compared to you. If you really want to hurt your pastor, you can make certain he knows how inferior he is. So, if your life’s goal is to hurt your pastor, one or more of these approaches

CONTINUE ON PAGE 14

7 WAYS TO HURT YOUR PASTOR

David Holycross

Helping families honor the lives of those they love since 1998www.holycrossmemorial.com

Yuba City | (530) 751 - 7000 | License #FD1653

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The above headline is powerful. Why? Because it should cause each one of us to consider if it is a reality in our lives. Are we intentional about our future; about where we are going? As followers of Christ, we should always be evaluating and critiquing our lives regardless of the month. However, there seems to be greater receptivity to change with the advent of a new year. Remember though, there is nothing magical about January 1st. It is just a date. So here is my challenge. Make your New Year’s resolution for 2015 to make changes in your life when needed. Period. Don’t wait. If you develop the

discipline to make improvements to your life and to eliminate ungodly behavior and harmful choices continually, you will grow to be a solid disciple of Jesus Christ. Simple in concept, difficult in application. But God through the power of the Holy Spirit working in your life is committed to your spiritual transformation. Two verses that should encourage you:Philippians 2:13 (NLT) For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him.Philippians 1:6 (NLT) And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again.Happy New Year!

“Live Life on Purpose”

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“...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matt 25:40

BrigitaD.O.B. August 15th, 2007

Brigita is 7 years old and is in first grade in school. Her favorite subject in school is math and she would like to be a doctor when she grows up. She enjoys studying and drawing pictures. Brigita came to Samaritan Village when she was a tiny baby. Her mother was mentally ill and attempted to deliver her in the road because she could not find the hospital. People found baby Brigita and brought her to the hospital where she then stayed for 3 months as she was prematurely born. When she was strong enough, she was brought to Samaritan Village. A gift of $60. monthly will provide for Brigitta’s care at Samaritan Village Orphanage. A monthly sponsorship for a child is $60., but any amount - either one time, monthly or even yearly is greatly appreciated. Our website provides a link to Paypal and donations may

be made online via credit card for your convenience, or checks may be mailed to Samaritan Village at the address shown below. You may follow us on Facebook @ Samaritan Village Orphanage, on our website @ http://www.samaritanvillageorphanage.com/ and through our quarterly Newsletter. The all volunteer Board and friends of Samaritan Village meet monthly and you are invited to attend the meetings to learn more about this life saving work. Please call Joan @ 530-755-2588 for information and meeting information. To sign up for our Newsletter, please drop us a note at the address below and include your name, mailing address and email address (if available). As always, we solicit and covet your prayer partnership for these little ones whom God has placed in our care. Samaritan Village Orphanage, Inc.P.O. Box 444Yuba City, CA 95992Tax ID#68-0214955 501c 3

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no more right to go back to court on the same charges. In the same way, Jesus bought our freedom with His blood, the token that would satisfy the judgment of God. This white stone reminds us that we stand no longer condemned. The white stones could also be used to cast a vote. We choose Jesus as the leader of our destiny. In addition, victors in the Olympic games received a crown of leaves and a white stone with their name on it. The crown would wither and fade away, but the stone would be a permanent reminder of victory. In Christ, we are victorious conquerors.

In ancient Greece, honorable guests to the city would receive a white stone with their name on it. The guest could go to the market and buy anything he wanted. The city would pay the expense. In Christ, God has given us all things. I want to be ready to receive my white stone and its benefits when I get to heaven. Perhaps the name on my stone is the sum total of all Christ wants me to be as I mature in Him. I am free, I am victorious, I have all things in Christ, and He is the leader of my destiny and yours. Let’s be overcomers in 2015. Happy New Year!

A ROCKY SUBJECT - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5will work just fine. But, if you are like most good church members, you want the best for your pastor. So just do the opposite of these seven. And if you are worried that your pastor will not remain humble unless someone puts him in his place, don’t worry. There will always be plenty of those other church members around. Thom S. Rainer is the president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources

(LifeWay.com). Among his greatest joys are his family: his wife Nellie Jo; three sons, Sam, Art, and Jess; and six grandchildren. He was founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions, Evangelism, and Church Growth at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

His many books include Surprising Insights from the Unchurched, The Unexpected Journey, and Breakout Churches.

7 Ways TO HURT... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

favor legalizing euthanasia, while 36 percent are opposed.(Editor’s note: Undoubtedly, the recent incidents involving white police officers and black men along with the resulting protests (many of which were violent) has pulled the “divide” of race relations ever further. Even with an African-American President, we are a long way off in terms of bringing Americans of different skin colors to live in harmony in many parts of our nation)

Do we believe in “liberty and justice for all”?

According to the Pew Research Center, 80 percent of Americans believe that “we should not think so much in international terms but concentrate more on our own national problems and building up our strength and prosperity here at home.”

As an example of this growing isolationism, 63 percent believe the U.S. should be less involved in Middle East political change, while only 23 percent say we should become more involved.

Regarding our top foreign policy goals, 83 percent agree with “protecting U.S. from terrorist attacks,” while only 18 percent agree with “promoting democracy in other nations.”

How is the church doing?

Isolationism and political division have been part of American Christianity for many years. As Jonathan Merritt shows in his excellent A Faith of Our Own: Following Jesus Beyond the Culture Wars, both the religious right and the religious left are polarized and polarizing.

America: More Divided Than Ever? - Continued from page 1How is our political rhetoric working for our Kingdom mission?

According to Merritt, 70 percent of non-Christians ages 16 to 29 say Christians are “insensitive to others.” It’s not surprising that two-thirds of young Protestants between the ages of 18 and 22 are leaving the Christian church. Merritt quotes philosopher Jacques Ellul: “It seems as though politics is the Church’s worst problem. It is her constant temptation, the occasion of her greatest disasters, the trap continually set for her by the Prince of this World.”

It’s not that God does not want Christians to be involved in politics—far from it. Christian statesmen like William Wilberforce and George Washington have changed our world for immeasurable good. I’m convinced that God is calling more

Christians into public service than are answering his call.

It’s that the gospel is not partisan. God loves both Democrats and Republicans. Jesus died for liberals and conservatives. When the church aligns its core Kingdom message with its political agenda, the latter co-opts the former.

God wants us to separate our biblical message from our political opinions and share the truth of God in love (Ephesians 4:15). He is calling us to know Christ and make him known, joining Jesus as he works to draw all men to himself (John 12:32-33).

The more Americans make Jesus our Lord and King, the more ours will truly be “one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us-- yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17

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LIFEGUARD BLINDED - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4reabsorbed by my own system and my vision would return. If in two weeks my vision had not returned I would have permanent eye damage from the water balloon.” But a Great Physician bestowed healing mercies to Dale. “As it turned out the eye was healed, the culprits were found, and I was given the wages I had not been able to earn while in the hospital. I was back on the beach before the end of summer and happy to be there. I did go to Hawaii that winter and learned that I really liked big surf.” Fifteen years after the water balloon incident, Dale and his wife Marilyn were in a Bible study in South Laguna and the leader was discussing the topic of forgiveness. “He suggested that we each think of someone we had offended and go to him or her, apologize, and ask to be forgiven.” Dale began to probe his mind for someone he might have offended in the past. Then something astonishing happened. A young mom in the Bible study said it would not be possible because she didn’t know the person she offended. “What do you mean by that?” the leader of the group asked. “When I was a little girl I went

with some older boys to throw water balloons off the cliff at tourists on the beach. We went to the end of the streets like Brooks Street and Anita Street. When we got to St. Ann’s Street one of the balloons hit the lifeguard and he really got hurt,” she said. “All of the others were blamed for his injury; no one told the police I was there. They were all punished, but not me. It was my balloon that hit him. I know because I watched it hit him in the head. I was so scared I never told anyone.” At the end of her story Dale turned to her, looked her in the eyes, and said very simply, “You are forgiven.” A quizzical look came over her face. “That is nice for you to say, but I need to say it to him.” “You just did,” he replied. “I am that lifeguard.” She began to weep as she realized the enormity of God’s special provision for this divinely appointed reconciliation. “That simple act of forgiveness put an end to years of torment for her and started a long and lasting friendship between us,” Dale says. “Today you too can ask for forgiveness and begin a long and lasting relationship with Jesus Christ. Forgiveness gives us a new beginning and hope for the future.”

with cigarettes before nightfall. I’m reminded that there are elderly men and women languishing away in loneliness, their lives pronounced to be a waste. But I also love Sanctity of Human Life Sunday when I think about the fact that in our churches there are ex-orphans all around, adopted into loving families. I love to reflect on the men and women who

serve every week in pregnancy centers for women in crisis. And I love to see men and women who have aborted babies find their sins forgiven, even this sin, and their consciences cleansed by Christ. We’ll always need Christmas. We’ll always need Easter. But I hope, please Lord, someday soon, that Sanctity of Human Life Day is unnecessary.

WHY I HATE SANCTITY... CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

If you would like to experience thepeace and transformed life that Godcan provide through Jesus Christand you are willing to commit yourlife to the only one who can truly setyou free from your sin, you can prayto the Lord right now and ask Himto forgive you of your sins. Becauseof what His Son, Jesus, did by dyingon the cross, your sins will not beheld against you by God anymore.You can experience freedom for therest of your life on earth and thenhave a life in Heaven with God foreternity. God’s part of the deal isalready done. Your part is to confessyour sins, repent (or change yourways) and believe that He is Lord.If your life is out of control, let Himtake over control.

For help, questions, or more information, contact us at The Ambassador or any of the churches listed on page 3.

Finding Freedomin God’s Perfect Peace

Finding Freedomin God’s Perfect Peace

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COMMUNITYBy Meredith Curry and Nicole Duncan, Restoration Railroad January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Restoration Railroad, a Yuba-Sutter anti-human trafficking organization working to raise awareness about human trafficking and to serve victims locally, will host a film screening of Very Young Girls, produced by GEMS. This powerful documentary follows the lives of several young girls as they struggle to overcome the evil they’ve experienced as sex trafficking victims. The documentary includes home videos filmed by “pimps” that reveal how they recruit and groom victims. This film is heartbreaking and hopeful. Very Young Girls gives the viewer an up close and inside view of the reality of domestic child sex trafficking in the US. Although this film was shot in New York City, the tactics of the traffickers and the experiences of the victims mirror those we have seen in our region. People often think of human trafficking as something that happens overseas or only with foreigners brought into our country or only in big cities. The reality is that human trafficking happens any time a third party is willing to exploit another person for their personal gain. This third party, or trafficker, robs his victim of her

freedom through force, fraud or coercion (traffickers and victims include both males and females). Human trafficking is a broad category that includes sex trafficking, labor trafficking, debt bondage, servitude, child soldiers, child beggars, organ removal, and illegal adoptions, to name a few. Restoration Railroad has primarily assisted sex trafficking victims in our community and region, though we know that labor trafficking is happening here as well. Anywhere someone is willing to pay for sex, there will be someone willing to meet that demand. Where there are buyers, there will be sellers. As a result, human trafficking happens everywhere including the Yuba-Sutter area. It happens in local hotels, businesses, parking lots,

and even homes. In the nearly two years since we began our work, Restoration Railroad has been honored to walk alongside several child sex trafficking victims in their struggle against “the life” and their journey to find a way out. Very Young Girls depicts a young girl who is rescued out of sex trafficking and yet returns to her trafficker (if this mystifies you, come watch the film to understand why). We, too, have witnessed the battle of a young girl, rescued out of the life, who fought to free herself from it and who ultimately returned to it. We’ve also learned to redefine success as we watch another young lady strive to build a healthy life for herself. When we speak about this topic, people

often ask, “How many girls have you rescued?”, or “Tell us a success story”. It is imperative to understand rescue out of a situation is only the beginning of a long process of restoration. If we’re honest with ourselves, we all recognize our own struggles and battles, whether they include anxiety, depression, addiction, gossip, or the like. For most of us, healing doesn’t come because we’re rescued, or pulled out of a situation, or there’s an intervention. Healing and restoration are oftentimes a decades-long process. The same is true of trafficking victims (only imagine how much more so with the depth of trauma trafficking victims must face). We have learned to redefine success to include each step of the journey of these young ladies take toward restoration, including staying engaged with people outside of “the life” and fighting against all odds to establish a healthier normal. And we trust that ultimately, through the healing power of Jesus, each one will be restored. So please join us on Monday, January 26th, 7:00-8:30 PM at 600 N. George Washington Boulevard (Hope Point Nazarene Church) to come face to face with several brave young girls who will show you what it is like to live in “the life” and to fight mightily to be restored! (See the back page film screening ad.)

FILM SCREENING SHEDS LIGHT ON CHILD SEX TRAFFICKING IN U.S.

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The Ambassador Ministrywould like to thank the following people for their Individual Sponsorship

Kathy BaumMarty Brown

Warren & Lucy CampbellChuck DavidBob Gilbert

Pamela GivansRich & Joan Hackney

Tom HarrisMarie Hiebert

Brad IndelicatoApril JamesSandi JuriSue Kochi

John NichollsCarrie PedersonWendell Prine

Jeff RoyceJon & Pat Skillman

Julie Stamper

God Bless Each of Youfor your support of this ministry and our community

If you would be interested in supporting The Ambassadoras an Individual Sponsor ($20/month)

please contact Seth Halpern at: [email protected] or call 530-933-1385

or visit us online atwww.ambassadornewspaper.com

IN THE NEWSCarrie Dedrick | Editor, ChristianHeadlines.com Seven NFL football players joined with nonprofit Athletes for Charity to give away 500 Bibles at Christmas time. Players Don Carey, Andre Fluellen, Ryan Lindley, Kawann Short, Kevin Pamphile, Alterraun Verner and Reggie Walker used social media to encourage Facebook, Instagram and Twitter followers to join the campaign. Lions safety Carey posted trivia questions for his fans while Chargers

linebacker Walker asked followers to use the hashtag #HolidayBibleGiveAway. Buccaneers cornerback Verner suggested his fans post their favorite scriptures. The initiative, in its third year, gave away 500 Tyndale study Bibles to participating winners. According to Christian Today, Verner said, “I love hosting the Holiday Bible Giveaway each year because it allows me the opportunity to give away the greatest gift to my fans and followers and share my love for God’s Word with them.”

Carrie Dedrick | Editor, ChristianHeadlines.com ISIS has killed at least 120 of its own fighters, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The human rights group said that ISIS killed 116 of its own militants that had joined the terror group but wants to return home. Four more ISIS fighters were also killed on other charges. Syrian Observatory for Human Rights director Rami Adburrahman told The

Independent, “We can confirm that 120 fighters have been killed by ISIS, but from our sources on the ground we believe that over 200 have actually been killed.” Al Jazeera reports that the ISIS members were killed in Deir Ezzor, Raqqa and Hasakeh since November.

The Syrian Observatory for Human rights also reported that ISIS has killed almost 2,000 civilians since it rose to power six months ago.

Carrie Dedrick | Editor, ChristianHeadlines.com After 13 years of combat, the U.S. has formally ended the war in Afghanistan. The Taliban declared “defeat” of the U.S. and its allied forces, though the foreign troops were able to prevent the terrorists from gaining a significant amount of territory. In a statement, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said, “ISAF (the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force) rolled up its flag in an

atmosphere of failure and disappointment without having achieved anything substantial or tangible.” The U.S. will now transition most troops out of the country but 13,500 foreign forces will remain in Afghanistan for two more years to train Afghan security forces.

The Huffington Post reports 3,500 soldiers were killed in Afghanistan, 2,224 of whom were Americans throughout the course of the war.

US Officially Ends War in Afghanistan, Taliban Declares ‘Defeat’ of US Allies

ISIS KILLS 116 OF ITS OWN FIGHTERS WHO WANTED TO LEAVE

NFL PLAYERS GIVE 500 BIBLES AWAY FOR CHRISTMAS

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EDITORIAL

Seth Halpern - Editor

By Jon Skillman

The articles headline read: “Scientists re-create what may be life’s first spark.” This struck me as odd because for the longest time, science has said, “life can only come from life.” Oh those crazy mixed up scientists, they just can’t keep from proving themselves wrong…and they’re getting pretty good at it too. Anyway, according to the article, there is a long held theory that life “may” have been sparked by “space collisions”…meaning asteroids crashing into the earth may have sparked life here on earth. I don’t know, it’s been my experience that violent collisions aren’t usually life-nurturing events. But hey, I’m no scientist. Have you noticed that the vocabulary of science is rich in words such as: could, might, may have, possibly, potentially or in theory? They are all words of uncertainty. Please keep this in mind as you read on. According to the article, scientists using a powerful laser, zapped a glob of clay mixed with a “chemical soup,” to simulate the force of an asteroid crashing into the earth, and how this “might” have produced the first spark of life. Although the experiment did not prove that this is how life started, it did create what “could” be considered crucial pieces of the building blocks of life…in this case a chemical known as RNA (Ribonucleic acid) a distant cousin of DNA. I suspect all the necessary ingredients for RNA were provided in that “chemical soup.” The scientists conceded that many, still mysterious steps must happen

before life can emerge, but this is a “potential” starting point. In other words, producing a chemical is a far cry from producing the spark of life. It seems the article’s headline has written a check the experiment cannot cash. The article goes on to say; “These findings “suggest” that the emergence of life is not the results of an accident” (Amen to that) “but a direct consequence of the conditions on earth.” Like by design “maybe”? That’s the only part of this whole experiment that produces a spark of sense. This experiment also debunks my long held theory that Pillsbury zapped a glob of yeast-enriched dough with a powerful microwave to spark life into their loveable little doughboy…AKA, Poppin Fresh. But the question for science should not be: What sparked life, that’s a done deal. A better question would be: How does life work? And a question for all of us has to be: What do we do with it? Until science includes The Creator in its equation for the creation of life, the results will always be expressed as, could, might, may have, possibly, potentially or in theory. It’s kind of like trying to create a bridge without an architect, an engineer and a builder.

The answer to all this is contained in the first two chapters of Genesis. But science seems more intent on proving the Bible wrong than the reality to which their experiments point.

The Spark of Life

What do you think of when you read the word FREE? Perhaps you think of freedom and liberty. The lack of restriction and/or bondage. Maybe you think of the best price of all…Zero! I always look for the “Buy One get one FREE” ads. I love to get something for nothing. Don’t you? The problem that comes with that is the sense that the “Free” item seems to lose value. I’ve been to garage sales where there was a box of free items that no one would touch but they would pay good money other items of similar value. I’ve even been told that when people slapped a FREE label on something there was less interest. The Ambassador has always been Free to our readers and I wonder if it has lowered its value because of it. Many who read The Ambassador faithfully, and those who contribute to its production, know the value of it- the value of having a publication that not only represents our values (no pun intended) and brings the hope of the Gospel to the marketplace in our community. Yet, I fear that there are many who don’t see the value in it. The inspiring stories, testimonies of God’s power, information on important issues and events. These seem to be lost among many, many people in the church. The value of The Ambassador is in the contents within. I believe (and have for 9 years) that each and every issue carries in it life giving words. These are not usually my words (there are many contributors) and they are NOT on the level of scripture, but rather point people TO scripture AND to Jesus, the One that all of scripture points to. Whether

to encourage them through a trial, connect them to others to partner in ministry, or to challenge them to cease compromising and rededicate themselves to following Christ in holiness, the Holy Spirit can work in the hearts of readers on each and every page. There’s another thing that is free and often taken for granted. It is much, much greater than The Ambassador - God’s gift of Salvation. Unfortunately, many people enjoy the free gift of salvation, but don’t consider what it costs. It cost Jesus, the Son of God, His very life. What has it cost you? We just finished another Christmas season with the Black Friday deals and lots of wrapping paper hitting the recycle bin. Has anything we received on Christmas really changed us? Probably not. But the true gift of Christmas (our savior’s birth) should change us. His death and resurrection that we celebrate at Easter, did change us whether we are aware of it or not. It changed our status before Holy God, cleansing us of sin, so that we can have a relationship with our Father in Heaven. I admit that sometimes I don’t place appropriate value on this God-bestowed Grace and Mercy. I want to change that this year. How about you?

FREE for all!

Page 19: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

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Page 20: Ambassador Newspaper January 2015

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