Largest Christian Newspaper in America • goodnewsfl.org • November 2024 • Volume 26, Issue 8
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PUBLISHER 6 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition South Florida Edition • Good News • November 2024 • Volume 26, Issue 8 Advertising: We reach over 110,000 readers each month. 80,000 in print and 30,000 via our online digital edition. Placing an ad in our publication is affordable and effective to help grow your business. Call us today! Distribution: Available in more than 800 locations throughout South Florida. To become a free distribution point for the newspaper, please contact Shelly. The Good News is published by Good News Media Group, LLC, Reproduction in whole or part strictly forbidden without the consent of the publisher. Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Good News Media Group, LLC. PO Box 670368, Coral Springs, FL 33067 954-564-5378 • www.goodnewsfl.org Publisher: Leslie J. Feldman [email protected] Editor: Shelly Pond [email protected] Advertising & Marketing: Robert “Buddy” Helland Jr. V.P. Sr. Marketing Manager [email protected] Art Director: Milton McPherson [email protected] Associate Art Director: Joseph Sammaritano [email protected] Social Media Manager: Ariel Feldman [email protected] Editorial Assistant: Eric Solomon [email protected] Cover Photography: Justus Martin [email protected] PERSPECTIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 What Now? – by Stephan N. Tchividjian IN THE WORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Franklin Graham: Pray and Vote, But Put Your Hope in God – by Franklin Graham PARENTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Catching and Teaching Gratitude – by Dr. Bob Barnes and Torrey Roberts THE CODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Accountability: Don’t Leave Home Without It – by Dr. O.S. Hawkins MARRIAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 The Significance of Gathering – by Lisa May HEART AND SOUL . . . . . . . . . .18 The 2024 Presidential Election – Dr. James Todd FOSTER CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 A Sacred Opportunity – by Andrew Holmes CHURCH UNITED . . . . . . . . . .22 Churches Will Share Common Teaching Series Following Election – Edwin Copeland YOU ASK WHY? . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Thankful for the Master’s Majority – by Dr. Tommy Boland GOOD NEWS WANTS TO KNOW . . . . . .26 – 28 If you could have 15 minutes of FAME as an International Celebrity, how would you use that platform? GOOD NEWS SALUTES 2024 - 2025 LEADING CHARITIES AND FOUNDATIONS . . . . . . 29 - 52 INSIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 The Gift of Community – by Rob Hoskins ENCOURAGEMENT . . . . . . . . .56 Time Is on My Side – by Omar Aleman LEGAL Q&A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 HOA Rights and Rules: Board Members Must Heed Newly Passed Rules – by William “Bill” C. Davell and Matt Zifrony WE GET LETTERS . . . . . .60 – 61 COMMUNITY NEWS . . . .62 – 72 CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 - 75 CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . .76 - 79 And Here We Are On The Cover Good News Salutes Leading Charities and Foundations 2024-2025 in the cover photo shoot graciously hosted by Pastor David Hughes and the talented team at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale. Front Row (L-R): Bob Hoskins, OneHope; Stephan Tchividjian, National Christian Foundation South Florida; Andrew Holmes, 4KIDS; Germaine Smith Baugh, Urban League of Broward County; Major Juan Guadalupe, The Salvation Army of Broward; Jack Brewer, The Jack Brewer Foundation; 2nd Row: Antonio Villasuso, The Caring Place; Christopher C. Simpson, CBMC International; Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Community Foundation of Broward; Lori Lassen, Rejoice Marriage Ministries; Don Campion, Egbe Medical Mission; Coach Rick Andreassen, SAINTS Homeschool P.E. ; 3rd Row: Sean Stepelton, The Stacy Foundation; Abby Mosher, Tomorrow’s Rainbow; Joy Wright, Hope Women’s Centers; Joyce Feldman, BiG Children’s Foundation; Dr. Mary Drabik, South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary; 4th Row: Dr. Tomara Mays, Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County; Rick Weber, Sheridan House Family Ministries; Coleen LaCosta, Speak Up For Kids; Nancy Robin, Habitat for Humanity of Broward, Inc.; Heather Palacios, Wondherful, Inc.; 5th Row: Matt Organ, Boys & Girls Club of Broward County; Tewannah Aman, Broward Right to Life; Antony Tchividjian, Calvary House; Dawn Liberta, Health Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Broward County; Desmond Cook, Fellowship of Christian Athletes; 6th Row: Robin Martin, Rebuilding Together Broward County, Inc.; Bill Tolia, CBMC South Florida; Suzanne Marcellus, House of Protection, Inc.; Dennis DeMarois, Gathering Palm Beach County; Chris Lane, First Priority of South Florida; Lisa May, Relate Well Live Well; Julie Price, Arc Broward; 7th Row: Elena Hershey, Suits, Stilettos & Lipstick Foundation; Adriana Gonzalez, Flourish Your Faith Ministries; James Drake, CityKeepers; Elizabeth Coldren, Grace Place School, Inc.; Mark Khouri, Food For The Poor; Dr. Fred Scarbrough, HOPE South Florida. Photo by Justus Martin. www.justusmartinphoto.com We approach Thanksgiving as we do each year with God’s grace. We start with great anticipation for this our 8th Annual Good News Special feature “Leading Charities and Foundations.” We say it’s a labor of love and with that love comes a lot of work, which in reality is our Good News Media Group mission statement. Who are we? What do we do? How do we do it, and why do we do it? We are a newspaper that parades as a magazine; that comes from a simple sense of pride that we can do better. What we do is to engage and collaborate with our Christian values in the secular marketplace. How do we do it? is the challenge. We have a small staff but much larger than Christian media groups around the country that seek to publish as we do; it takes dedication and perseverance. We create formats in our approach to bring the Good News to our village with enlightening features in an entertaining fashion. Finally, why we do it? It is our privilege to recognize all of the dedicated leaderservants that seek no sense of celebrity, but we feel it’s critically important to present their story and good deeds in hopes that you our readers will engage and volunteer and contribute your time, talent and treasure as God commands us to do. In the presentation of this issue, we start each June with the invitation process and gathering the critical data. We need to present and represent their efforts, factually and responsibly. Months later, we then invite the leadership of the charities and foundations to gather for their group cover photo feature. This year our 2024-2025 group assembled at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale, hosted by Pastor David Hughes and his staff. We began the morning with a one-and-a-half-hour registration and meet and greet where our 60 invites have an opportunity to mix and mingle, exchange business cards, ideas, thoughts and prayers with each other in preparation for the actual group photo that appears on the front cover of this issue. Each member of this group is either a founder, executive director or president of their charity or foundation; we call it an “audience of peers.” We are heartened to hear time after time among the attendees that they look forward to this annual gathering because, in most cases, it’s the only time they see each other on neutral ground, in fact, they find ways to share and collaborate for the benefit of the kingdom, which makes us proud and them happy. This is our Thanksgiving story of the Lord’s faithfulness. We were privileged to hear our keynote speaker Bob Hoskins, founder of One Hope global ministry, who proudly announced his 88th birthday and shared his story entering his 81st year in ministry. Please read and see the visuals of this year’s Thanksgiving feature starting on page 30. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Les - Leslie J. Feldman - Good News Publisher CONTENTS Good News • November • Volume 26 Issue 8
PERSPECTIVE 8 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition A truth is always true. I am not a believer in work/life balance but rather work/life rhythms. I find that rhythms are more realistic. Sometimes my life is at peace, and I can experience the joy of tranquility, and at other times my life is chaotic and stormy, anything but relaxed. Do you ever feel that way? Lately my life has felt a little stormy, and the discernment and wisdom that God provides is critical, helping me to know how to process and navigate all that comes my way. I am sure you can relate. I have been reflecting a lot on the “storms” we face in our lives. Recently we have all been dealing with storms. The storms can be related to our weather (literally), politics, economy, culture and personal and private lives. Storms have a way of taxing us of physical, spiritual and emotional strength. Storms can make us feel a bit overwhelmed, anxious and depressed. So, how do we manage a storm, since they are inevitable? I remember as a young boy having a picture hanging in my bedroom that depicted a young man piloting a boat at its helm in the midst of a storm. Jesus stood behind the young man with one hand on his shoulder and the other showing him where to steer in the high seas. Today that painting hangs on a wall in our house that is full of paintings, each with a story behind it. I typically have not paid much attention to it until the other day, realizing how prophetic that picture was hanging over my bed as I was that young boy (and still am). Recently, I was drawn to a story in the Bible where Jesus and his disciples (I call them interns) experience a significant storm. The story is found in the Gospel of Mark in the 4th chapter. Jesus has just finished a series of teachings and talks regarding faith and His Kingdom, using a lot of parables. The day has been long, and He says to His interns that it’s time to get into the boat and go to the other side. Various Bible scholars will argue that the other side represented a Gentile (non-Jew) region and that a good Jew would not be caught dead on the “other side.” However, Jesus is on a mission. The eightmile journey occurred during the night, and while traversing the lake, a violent storm hits the occupants. The storm was so violent that these hardened men, many fishermen, actually feared for their lives. The one that appeared unafraid and was actually fast asleep was Jesus, not the least bothered by this terrible storm. The interns, in utter fear, wake up their teacher with an accusation that it was obvious He didn’t seem to care. He first responds with action; He calms the storm. He then turns to His interns, now that the storm has subsided, and asks them two questions (that’s what Jesus does best, He asks really good questions). Why are they so afraid and where is their faith? I have reflected on this story many times in order to know how to manage the inevitable storms that show up. We are in a storm (most of the time) There is no question about it, storms are part of reality, and they come in all shapes and sizes. The storms you and I find ourselves in affect us all differently. The storms we all experience can easily create overwhelming fear. We are reminded every day that our world is broken, and “death” is very much a part of it. Several theologians make the case that the storm that the interns and Jesus found themselves in was not simply a weather-related storm, but demonic forces at work. Perhaps that’s true and if so, that adds another dimension to the storms of life. Rembrandt van Rijn depicts this scene in his beautiful painting (which by the way has been stolen and yet to be found). The painting draws you in to where you can feel the wind and rain, the angst, the fear, the chaos. The well told story in Mark, finds Jesus in the boat sound asleep. We may think that He is simply detached, aloof, too distant to understand our emotions and our pain. However, He has chosen to be PRESENT. He could have simply asked the interns to meet Him on the other side or watched from afar. No, He decided to journey through the storm by choice. He knew a storm was coming and still chose to join them. He knew they would need Him because He knew they had little faith. I find it almost comical that Jesus is actually asleep. I am not sure what kind of sleeper Jesus was, but as far as I know this is the only time in scripture that we see Jesus asleep. Many times, we read that Jesus was an early riser, seeking time to pray, but asleep in a crisis? My cynical and sarcastic side reads this wrong. Jesus appears selfish, more concerned with His needs than mine. However, this is not true. He is demonstrating to me that He is at PEACE, even in storms. Jesus never knew fear; it’s not in His vocabulary. How many times in scripture do we hear the phrase, “fear not” …a lot (estimated 365 times)? Once Jesus is awakened from his sleep, His first action is to quiet the storm, and He does this with a command. Did He shout at the storm, or did He quietly and simply say, “Peace be still”? Wow, no wonder Jesus never knew fear since He could quiet a storm. He demonstrated to His interns that He is a God of POWER. A teaching moment (don’t want to miss it) Jesus as the consummate teacher and shepherd uses this as a teaching moment. I don’t believe He is angry, but He is corrective in His tone as He asks two questions around fear and the lack of faith. Faith and fear have an interesting relationship since faith is the antithesis of fear. Satan uses fear as his weapon all the while Jesus uses faith. Dr. Tim Royer, a neuropsychologist remarked that as humans our greatest fear comes from anticipated fear. We use our God created and given imaginations to imagine what could be and, in our fear, we can often abandon our faith. Think about sin itself. James talks about sin being sourced within our evil desires (imaginations), and sin is designed to drive a wedge between us and Jesus. Fear is designed the same way. Jesus is with them in the boat, yet they ignore Him and default to fear. Jesus is teaching them that faith will always overcome fear. When we acknowledge that we experience storms on a regular basis, there ought to be no reason to be afraid because Jesus stands at your back, one hand on your shoulder and the other pointing to where He wants to take you. Jesus is taking the interns to the other side, where they are met by a demon possessed man who has been terrorizing the whole countryside. Jesus had a reason to go to the other side; He wanted to start something. He wanted to demonstrate His presence, peace and power in a dark place. I believe that is why Satan may have sent the storm, because if he could have taken the disciples out there would have been no conversion on the other side. Actually, what an insult to the anemic power of Satan, that Jesus chooses to actually take a nap during Satan’s vicious attack. I believe that when the storms cease and they will, we will arrive on the other side. Due to the storm, our faith will have increased, and that will give us the power to overcome the evil that will affront us. Our faith in Jesus will break the chains that bind us and our culture. We pray for revival – it’s coming, but it first starts in our own hearts and minds as we weather the storms of life. In closing, let this be the beginning of a new season of His healing of our hearts and minds. Lately, when I have found myself afraid, anxious, confused, angry and discouraged, I have visually put myself in the boat, and I will intentionally look over my shoulder at the sleeping Jesus. There I always find His calm. One last thought shared by my friend, Jason Upton. Isn’t it interesting that in the Garden of Gethsemane, while Jesus was awake, the disciples slept, an antithesis to the story of Jesus in the boat. Perhaps a lesson for us is to rest when Jesus is at rest and be awake when He is awake. Have faith, the best is yet to come. Stephan N. Tchividjian is the CEO and co-founder of the National Christian Foundation South Florida. Visit southflorida.ncfgiving.com to learn more. Now What? - Stephan Tchividjian - CEO and Co-Founder, National Christian Foundation South Florida
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10 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition IN THE WORD Dear Friend, In just a few weeks, our nation will hold one of the most consequential elections in decades. Voters will go to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 5, to cast their ballots for the next president of the United States, as well as for many crucial congressional, state and local offices. The future of our nation is at stake. America has drifted far from the Biblical values that once stood as our rock-solid foundation. In so many ways, we have turned our back on God, and the results have been devastating. Progressive, liberal thought and activism have so contaminated the mainstream of American life and culture that once-unthinkable abominations such as same-sex marriage, abortion on demand and transgender advocacy have become dogma in one major party’s platform. Our dangerous plight reminds me of Isaiah’s warning to apostate Israel, which had abandoned allegiance to Almighty God and instead adopted the godless culture of surrounding nations. “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20). Be warned, if we continue down this rebellious path, our nation will reap the bitter fruit of blatant immorality that shakes its fist in the face of God. Remember, we reap what we sow, more than we sow, later than we sow. “Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction” (Galatians 6:8, NIV). In the special 2024 election issue of Decision (available at decisionmagazine.com), we have carefully examined and outlined the positions of the presidential candidates and their parties on key moral issues. We also highlight the difference in the platforms of both political parties. Additionally, we examine the critical congressional and gubernatorial races, along with pivotal state contests. The Bible clearly teaches that governments are ordained by God to restrain evil and enable righteousness to flourish (Romans 13:3-4). That’s why Christians should carefully pray and vote for candidates who best align with and stand for Biblical principles. Above all, I encourage believers across this nation to pray for God’s merciful, providential hand to turn our nation back to Him. For Almighty God to heal our land, we the people must first cry out to Him in repentance. We can’t expect God to bless America while godlessness runs rampant in our land. My hope for our nation’s future—as always—remains in Christ alone. Franklin Graham Decision magazine, October 2024; ©2024 Billy Graham Evangelistic Association; used by permission, all rights reserved. Franklin Graham: Pray and Vote, But Put Your Hope in God - Franklin Graham - President and CEO Samaritan’s Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
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12 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition PARENTING When we think of the month of November, the first thing that comes to mind is thankfulness and gratitude. It is usually the classroom theme of the month and for good reason. It needs to be something that we are intentionally teaching our children. A special trip I remember my first Summer as a behavioral specialist at Sheridan House. One of the focal points of the summer program was a trip at the end of the summer. The teens would spend all summer working towards the trip. My starry eyed twenty-two-year-old self looked forward to the trip with the girls all summer. This was to be a special trip because we were privileged to take the girls to Washington D.C. that year. Many of them had never been out of the state let alone on a plane. The day of the trip finally arrived, and I was dumbfounded when the grumbling began. That grumbling then moved on to complaining; lines were too long, food wasn’t what they wanted, it was too hot, etc. I saw first-hand through this experience that gratitude isn’t something that just comes naturally, it needs to be both “caught” and “taught.” Instant everything We are now a couple of generations into this idea of instant everything. We move quickly from one thing to the next and our attention spans have shortened even more. This next generation will have not known life before social media, instant gratification, having search engines at their fingertips and now A.I. assistants. With all of this we can see their mental health is suffering. Surprisingly, one of the ways we can combat this is teaching gratitude. Benefits of gratitude Gratitude causes us to take a step back, to pause and reflect, and then be thankful. Thankful for a moment, thing, person or action. As we have stated, this doesn’t come naturally, we foster this in our children. There have been many studies now that show the amazing impacts of gratitude. It appears to activate areas of the brain that help to regulate emotions and memory. People who are grateful have more activity in the area of their brains that are associated with learning and decision making. I know from personal experience the impact keeping a gratitude journal has on my wellbeing. If you take a minute to research, the impacts are quite literally mind blowing. Not only is this a way for us to encourage good mental health habits but it also furthers our parenting goals. We have mentioned that raising a godly child who is marriageable and employable should be our future end game for parenting. Gratitude trains the brain to look for the positive over the negative. It strengthens all types of relationships. Finally, scripture tells us to practice gratitude. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). The wording of those two verses are a command to us. We are to practice rejoicing and giving thanks in all things. I love that the verse in Philippians even mentions thanksgiving as a response to anxiousness. It goes on to say, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). Our response to circumstances should be prayer and thanksgiving. From that, God promises to give our hearts peace that passes all understanding. What a gift to teach our children. As we begin gratitude month, with all the things going on in our world this November, take time every day to teach thanksgiving! Visit parentingonpurpose.org for more advice from Dr. Bob Barnes and Torrey Roberts. Catching and Teaching Gratitude - Dr. Bob Barnes and Torrey Roberts - Sheridan House Family Ministries
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THE CODE 14 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition “But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you. Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you, as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow laborers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen” (Philemon 1:22-25). Checkups One of the reasons my family buys our cars from a particular local dealership is because of their dedicated service department and their determined servant spirit. Periodically, I take my car in for a complete checkup. The service manager makes certain my automobile is properly maintained so that as the miles add up, it will continue to run smoothly with minimal mechanical maladies. Like many of you, my wife and I are fortunate enough to own our own home. Or, to be more accurate, the mortgage holder actually owns it. Periodically, we give it a checkup. Recently we made some repairs on the eaves of the roof. It wasn't leaking — yet. Some wood had begun to rot around one of the eaves, and it was only a matter of time before bigger problems would come. So, we did some preventive maintenance. I have a body. Some might argue that at my advancing age, it is not much of one. But it is still a body, nonetheless. Every year I go to my physician for an annual physical. It is quite extensive and takes up most of the day. We make certain everything is in proper working order and seek to detect any abnormalities or possible problems developing. Along with my annual exam, I try to watch my diet and exercise regularly. It is called preventative medicine, and I am a big believer in seeking to practice it. Much of what goes wrong with my automobile, my house, or my body for that matter does so because of one word: neglect. No checkup. No maintenance. No accountability. Accountability - now that is an important word. If it is good for cars and homes and bodies, why is it a forgotten discipline in our personal relationships? It is good for husbands and wives from time to time to push the pause button, sit down, focus, and check up on their relationship with one another. It is good for parents to do the same with their children and for friends to stop long enough to perform some preventative maintenance on long-standing relationships. As Paul concluded his letter to Philemon, he wanted him to know that he was going to hold him accountable and visit to check on his ongoing relationship with Onesimus. He wrote, "Also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you" (Philemon v. 22). That sentence could mean only one thing, and Philemon knew well what it meant. Paul was going to stop in at a later date to check up on the relationship. He was sending a message that he Intended to hold Philemon accountable. Paul was wise. He knew that what went wrong in many relationships did so because of neglect. No accountability. No checkups. No maintenance in relationships. Accountability Accountability is a big part of success in life. We all need it, and more than most of us ever realize. We need accountability in our marriage relationships. Marriages that last are those that practice preventive maintenance and hold each other accountable. When accountability goes, damaged relationships follow quickly. I am accountable to my wife. I do not just go my own way, telling her that what I do and when I do it is none of her business. It is her business. We are one. We have a unique relationship because we are accountable to one another for what we do, where we go, and how we behave. We all know something of accountability. We practice it every day in many various venues of life. We have it at the office. We do not just show up to work on Monday morning whenever we desire or decide not to show up at all. We arrive at an appointed time and work a certain number of hours if we expect to be remunerated for our service. Some of us in sales are accountable for quotas, producing a certain amount of sales and new business. Profitable businesses are successful in large part because of a process of accountability that permeates the workplace. And what about national state, and local governments? As citizens we need laws to govern our behavior and to protect us. We need to be held accountable when we drive through stop signs or exceed the speed limits. A lack of accountability from governments would result in a state of total anarchy. Accountability is a part of our everyday life. In one way or another, we are faced with it at every turn of the corner. And what about the athletic arena? We see accountability playing a huge role there also. If an athlete refuses to attend scheduled practice sessions, he will not see playing time when the real games begin. In high school and college basketball, if a player commits five fouls in a single game, he is disqualified by the referee. All athletes are accountable to their coaches, teammates, officials, umpires, and referees on the playing field. Accountability measures surround us every single day. Many of us have mortgages on our homes that come with regularly scheduled monthly payments. We are held accountable to pay these on time or certain penalties will arise. If we go months without payments, we are in danger of the lender foreclosing on our property. What do these things tell us? Accountability plays a significant part in all we do in life. It is strange that, although we daily practice accountability in virtually every area of life, when it comes to personal relationships with friends, most of us seem to see no need for it. It is little wonder we have an epidemic in our world of short-term relationships that never evolve into long-term ones. If accountability is imperative for government, education, athletics, health, and business dealings, it is also an imperative incentive for developing lasting positive and productive relationships that stand the test of time. When I was a new believer still in my teen years, I met and made a best friend whose friendship has lasted across the decades. Jack Graham and I began to take note of what was happening around us. We watched some of our classmates literally destroy their young lives through alcohol, drugs and illicit sex. Although as teenagers we did not know what to call it, we entered into an accountability relationship with one another, determined to help each other. We made a promise to God and to each other to keep ourselves pure and clean. We held one another accountable, and to this day, more than five decades later, he remains a friend who "sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24) and to whom I remain accountable. As we each look back over our lives, we can attest to seeing many destroyed relationships in the lives of others, and perhaps a few In our own were left stranded along the way. What destroys our relationships? The answer can be found in attitudes of self-reliance, selfrighteousness, self-sufficiency, and self-centeredness. Accountability has become the lost word in many relationships, with devastating results. The lack of it has been the downfall of so much potential and promise. Accountability is the “ability” to be open and allow a small number of trusted, loyal and committed friends to speak truth into us in love. We should only be accountable to those who have our best interests always in mind. We all need a person from whom we can receive wise counsel and willing correction. Perhaps there is no other word as feared by some as that word accountability. It is against our very nature to want to be held accountable for anything, especially related to our own actions or attitudes. Some of us fear it because we mistake it for something else. Some of us may think it means only put-downs, criticisms or rebukes from those who seem to take delight in seating themselves in some kind of chair of judgment of others. Remember, we are talking about accountability from a very select, limited number of true friends who always have our best interests at heart-much like the relationship of Paul and Philemon. Relationships are doomed to defeat without the element of accountability. We all need it. Three important views Paul was signaling in this section of his letter that accountability in our relationships calls for three important views. First, insight. Paul concluded this letter by letting Philemon know he was coming by to check up on how things were going with his relationship with Onesimus. Hindsight also plays a role in effective accountability. It involves an investment of time and interest. We need to have the hindsight to see that every arena of our relationships (affirmation, forgiveness, acceptance, and commitment to one another) that Paul had previously addressed is of vital importance. Finally, Paul was signaling here that foresight is imperative. Paul concluded his letter with the prayer that grace might rest upon his trusted friend. We need the foresight to see that we all need a little more grace to make our relationships what God intends them to be. Accountability. We all need it. Don't leave home today without it. Taken from The Connection Code by O.S. Hawkins. Copyright © 2023 by Dr. O.S. Hawkins. Used by permission of Thomas Nelson. O. S. Hawkins is the chancellor of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has served pastorates, including the First Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, for more than 25 years. He is the author of more than 40 books and regularly speaks to business groups and churches nationwide. All of the author’s royalties and proceeds from the Code series support Mission:Dignity. MissionDignity.org. - Dr. O.S. Hawkins - Chancellor, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Accountability: Don’t Leave Home Without It
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MARRIAGE 16 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition Like many of you, I had the blessing of attending a wedding recently. A beautiful bride, handsome groom, magical setting, meaningful ceremony, attended by beloved family and friends. I found myself looking around and pondering the decades of friendships framed with the happiest and saddest of days. As the ceremony closed, we entered a ballroom that was like a fairytale. Tables adorned with centerpieces and a wedding feast prepared for the guest. Life’s second most significant commitment, the covenant of marriage, was celebrated by gathering around a dining table. Life’s most significant and life defining decision was also remembered and memorialized by another meal. As Christ prepared to die on our behalf, He chose to spend His final hours, sharing His thoughts with the people He loved, gathered around a dining table for the Last Supper. Why is the gathering of friends and family around a meal so significant? In today’s fast-paced world, where screens dominate interactions and everyone seems to have a full schedule, gathering around the dinner table may seem like a quaint, nostalgic ritual. However, research and countless family stories suggest that family dinners hold a powerful role in fostering connection, communication and wellbeing. The importance of family meals and gatherings offer benefits that extend beyond the table. Strengthens family bonds Family dinners and gatherings provide a dedicated time to slow down and engage with one another. Amid daily obligations, the table becomes a space where family members can bond, share stories and genuinely connect. When we’re away from work and school, our interactions often lead to deeper conversations where we can open up, share our thoughts and intentionally listen. Research is revealing that the collective experience of the meal and the interactions between the members can cultivate a strong sense of belonging and support, which helps us feel valued and understood. With the demands of the culture mealtime is often one of the few chances for our families to be together in a relaxed, inclusive setting. Builds communication skills At the table, children and adults alike learn valuable communication skills that benefit them in all aspects of life. The informal yet structured environment of a family meal encourages children and adults to express their thoughts and feelings in a supportive and respectful setting while fostering discussions with varying viewpoints. This sets the stage for family members to better understand and appreciate differences within their own household. These interactions develop essential skills for healthy relationships in all ages and stages of life. Enhances academic and social development Research shows that children who regularly eat dinner with their families often experience improved academic performance, stronger social skills and improved mental health. Family meals create an environment that can stimulate learning and growth and encourage open dialogue. It helps children expand their vocabulary, develop language skills and can involve critical thinking and problem-solving. The table often becomes a safe place for discussing problems, challenges, as well as a place of celebrating achievements, creating opportunities for family members to offer support and understanding which builds a sense of belonging and security. Builds and preserves traditions Traditions are one of the building blocks of family identity, and family dinners are an opportunity to create and preserve family traditions, whether through recipes, celebrations or rituals. We all remember the special recipe that’s been prepared on holidays. My husband’s family had a recipe for grandmas’ goulash that was a must. Not my favorite but we made it just the same in her memory. Sharing recipes and customs around the dinner table can help families connect with their heritage and pass it on to the next generation. It also creates cherished memories and allows space and time to reflect and express gratitude which fosters positive attitudes and an appreciation for the present moment. While the demands of modern life make family dinners seem like a luxury, the benefits they offer are profound and wide-ranging. Gathering around the table is much more than just eating; it is a time to connect, communicate and build relationships that enrich our spiritual and family life. Whether it’s a daily tradition or reserved for weekends, making time for family dinners can leave a lasting impact on everyone involved, supporting emotional, spiritual, social and even physical wellbeing. Embracing the practice of regular family meals is a powerful investment in the health and happiness of the family unit. What did Jesus do? This Thanksgiving season our hope for you and your family is that you’ll do what Jesus did. He celebrated and shared a meal with those he loved at two very significant moments. His first miracle was at a wedding. Before his journey to the cross he shared His Last Supper with his disciples. Relate Well Live Well is so committed to the family gathering and mealtime that we are expanding our teaching to strengthen marriages and families through a new initiative we’ve named Gather Well beginning Nov.15. Relate Well Live Well (formerly Live the Life South Florida) exists to strengthen marriages and families through skills-based relationship education beginning in middle school through senior adults. We provide workshops for marriage enrichment and HOPE Weekends for marriages needing a deeper work. RWLW.org - Lisa May - Executive Director, Relate Well Live Well The Significance of Gathering
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HEART AND SOUL 18 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition The electoral process is one of many attributes of the United States. On November 5, the democratic process will take place once again. In this thoughtful article, originally published in The Quill through PBA’s LeMieux Center for Public Policy, Dr. James Todd shares key insights into the candidates, the political landscape, and how our nation’s perspectives and concerns over key issues could impact the election. The 2024 presidential election falls into the usual pattern. Like all recent elections, a handful of swing states will decide the outcome. If Donald Trump wins in Michigan, Wisconsin or Pennsylvania, he’ll likely be headed back to the White House. Kamala Harris’s task is to deny Trump all three of these states, creating the “Blue Wall” that often protects Democrats in presidential elections. If the Blue Wall holds, Harris will likely win the presidency even if she loses Georgia, Arizona and Nevada (states Biden narrowly carried). It is likely that neither candidate will win convincingly and that all six of these states plus North Carolina will be decided by a razor-thin margin. With the mail-in ballots, expect vote counting to extend beyond the November 5 Election Day. Both Trump and Harris chose running mates who may appeal to Midwestern white men. Biden won in 2020 because he made inroads into Trump’s white support base. Trump only won men by two points in 2020. “Scranton Joe” Biden was well positioned to compete for these voters, yet he still barely managed to win the Blue Wall states against Trump. Kamala Harris, a San Francisco liberal, faces a tall task. She has to defend the Biden economic record to voters who fear a recession and with whom she lacks natural chemistry. There is no wonder that her campaign is marketing camouflage merchandise and launched the initiative called “White Dudes for Harris.” The 2024 election also comes down to the usual fundamentals. The 2024 environment favors Trump. Americans are dissatisfied with their economic circumstances. A recession may be coming: job growth has slowed, and supposed job gains in recent months were overstated. The affordability crisis that has dragged down the Biden presidency did not suddenly disappear because of Harris’s entry into the race. The issues that voters tell pollsters are most important to them — the economy and the border — play to Trump’s strengths. To date, Harris has not offered policy proposals that would allow her to distance herself from Biden, but she will have to offer solutions to the problems of the Biden era. She will also have to explain why these solutions have not already come while Americans are struggling. It is also unclear whether Harris can put the Biden coalition of 2020 back together. To do so, Harris will need a greater share of male, Hispanic and Black voters than she has received in recent polls. And, on average, Trump is polling better in the Rust Belt states now than ever before. Trump tends to outperform the polls in his actual vote share. Trump is working hard to court union voters. Style vs Substance Even if this is Trump’s election to lose, he can certainly lose it. If the election is a referendum on the candidates themselves, Harris probably wins. If the election is a referendum on the Biden/Harris administration, Trump probably wins. Style and symbolism favor Harris, while substance favors Trump. Will this election be framed as one about the personal traits of the candidates, or will it be framed as a choice of policy visions? Running a disciplined campaign has never come easily for Trump. He often dwells on things that fail to resonate among voters who aren’t glued to Fox News. In contrast, Harris can remind Americans why they never fully supported Trump. Trump is never as popular with the electorate as he claims to be, and now he has felony convictions. Americans already have strong feelings about Trump, but they seem to be willing to update their impressions of Harris. Harris can lay claim on the majority of voters who are ready to move on from Trump and Biden. She’s the not-Trump, not-Biden alternative. Harris may ironically pull off being the candidate of change. Wild cards There are a few wild cards in the race. The first is whether Trump will perform better among certain demographic groups than he did in 2020. Hispanic voters have steadily moved in his direction since 2016. Will this trend continue? Can Trump win close to 20% of the Black vote this time? Some polls indicate that this is a possibility. Is this the election where the Republican finally breaks through among Jewish voters? In the past, a Democratic candidate could count on the Jewish, Muslim and Black vote regardless of the positions he or she took on the Middle East. With Israel at war, can Harris hold this coalition together? Can Trump manage to keep things close among the white, college-educated voters who deserted him in 2020, or have affluent voters completely tuned him out at this point? The second wild card is voter turnout. Today’s elections are about the mobilization of already-supportive voters, not the persuasion of undecided voters. Democrats took advantage of pandemic-related changes to election rules to boost their 2020 turnout. Will Democrats out-mobilize Republicans for a second straight election, or have Republicans brought their “get out to vote” efforts up to date? Will Republicans continue to over-rely on Election Day voters, or will they harvest as many ballots as they can during early voting periods? A small percentage increase in turnout can be decisive in a swing state. Female voters, as usual, will be over half the electorate. Harris hopes to dominate among women with the issue of abortion. The last wild card must be the ultimate reassurance to the Harris campaign: the media. Will the media continue to facilitate Harris’s strategy of avoiding press conferences and firm positions on issues? Or will it demand more? The early indications are that the media would rather focus on day-to-day controversies surrounding Trump and Vance than the policy records of Harris and Walz. The media will likely frame the race in ways that help Harris. The media can generate another “October surprise” that hurts Trump, and/or suppress a story that would harm Harris. Despite the noise, if Trump can win male voters by double-digits, draw support from 40% of Latino voters and win 15% of Black voters, he will very likely win. Robert Kennedy, Jr.’s recent endorsement of Trump might help bring more men into Trump’s fold. Trump will need to avoid a major deficit in the suburbs of the swing states — suburbs from which his support among males must partly be drawn. Of course, over 90% of Republicans are going to have to vote for Trump as well. Republicans will need a mobilization of voters that was lacking in 2020, and a resolve to monitor vote counting in large cities. Whichever side works the hardest in voter mobilization will probably win. Harris wins by following what has become the Democratic playbook: Win by double digits among female voters, win a majority of college-educated white voters, and mobilize and win a substantial majority of voters 18 to 29 years old. If she does that, she can win the Electoral College despite whatever defections she may have with nonwhite voters. Whoever the winner, he or she will take office in a very divided nation, and a closely divided Congress. The losing side will be in no mood to compromise. It will be back to what has become the norm in American politics. - Dr. James Todd - Associate Professor/Chair of Politics Department, Palm Beach Atlantic University The 2024 Presidential Election
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FOSTER CARE 20 november 2024 www.goodnewsfl.org Good news • South Florida edition The past few months have been an incredible journey stepping into the role of President of 4KIDS. I’ve been serving with 4KIDS since 2018, and in that time, I have co-labored with the church community to do the kind of work that isn’t only changing lives but it’s encapsulating the heart of Jesus in undoubtable ways. A sacred space When you hear “foster care,” what do you think of? It’s pretty common to see it as something that is full of liabilities. Or something that you can agree is important, but also view as a pretty uncomfortable space. What if more of us shifted that perspective and instead saw foster care in its truest form – it’s a sacred opportunity. Not only is it a sacred space, but it’s one that has been a part of our faith journey since the very beginning. Even in Deuteronomy 24:19, we see the orphan and vulnerable mentioned by name, commanding us to leave forgotten sheafs in the field for them. This same heart carries on in scripture and is embodied in Jesus in countless ways. This is the holiest of work, caring for the unseen. And I believe there is such great dignity and blessing in this pursuit of care, love, justice, and restoration for these children and families. When we really see the unseen, I believe those are the moments where we are so much more seen by God. Seeing the unseen I remember the first time I saw the unseen pain and often horrors that neglected kids are facing. Ten years ago I was a Child Protective Investigator, and as an investigator I was responsible for going into at-risk homes and assessing if children were safe and well cared for. But I didn’t expect what was waiting for me behind these closed doors. To know the level of brokenness that exists in areas that I know well and live in changed my life. I also discovered that this kind of trauma isn’t something that discriminates socio-economically. The mistreatment of kids and the trauma that they go through - it is not only what you think it is; some of it is very insidious. This exists in ways that I never thought was possible, but once I knew I could never look away – the proximity and our response really left me ruined. Through countless investigations, the one defining moment came when I held a little girl after pulling her out of a storage unit. I knew then, "God, you built me for this. You built me to bring hope.” What I never could have imagined is how that job set me on a journey that would lead me to serving as 4KIDS’ President and bringing hope to kids in ways I couldn’t have dreamed of at the time. Stepping into God’s design The best part about this sacred space is that there is room for everyone to step into it at so many different levels. Whether that be preventative care and providing for the physical needs of at-risk families, supporting existing foster families, opening your own home, partnering to bring trauma-informed healing or most of all praying, there is a place for you here in this holy work. So often we are giving our hearts to people we can’t see, but we know that God does see them. Our willingness to extend our own hearts and even have our hearts broken, this is the high calling God has for each of us and it’s not unseen by Him. If you’re reading the Good News, my best guess would be that you’ve heard of 4KIDS many times over the years, and I am glad you have! I am grateful for a community filled with a rich history of caring for kids and families. My prayer for you is that you would consider the sacred space God is calling you to in a new way. Learn More About Extending Hope, Homes, and Healing to Kids & Families A Sacred Opportunity - Andrew Holmes - 4KIDS President
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