dec 2013 ambassador newspaper

The Ambassador 1

June 2012

December 2013

Tips For HappyRelationships

p. 12

Anxiety: Its Cause and Its Cure

p. 7

Charlie Brown Gets It

p. 4

There are times in life when we’re called to surrender it all. Just what

is “all”? The answer depends; for all of us it is to let go of our right to self-govern our lives, to have our own way and will and accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our savior, teacher and guide in life; giving up our sinful ways for His righteousness. Most of us will never be called to physically lay down our life but we struggle with giving up some simple things we have become accustomed to, our creature comforts, little indulgences and pleasures of the flesh. Some, like Jesus, give their very life to save others. You read or hear in the news of individuals who have done great acts of heroism risking their life to help another. Those who run to danger instead of away from it in order to help; a school

teacher or janitor facing down a gunman on campus; a neighbor running into a burning building to bring out an elderly man; doctors taking time away from their practices to volunteer in areas hit by devastating disasters; a kindly gentleman rescuing a little girls kitten stuck in the tree; the young man mowing the widows yard expecting nothing in return; selfless individuals who donate life giving blood or an organ to someone in need; those doing everyday random acts of kindness that may never be seen. We rightfully sing the praises of these individuals for what they have done, telling others of their deeds and memorializing those who lost their lives in such acts for the entire world to know. When talking about these heroes who doesn’t like being able to say you know them, that they are your friend? There is One who calls us friend who gave His life to save millions, to save us personally. Yet we rarely breathe a word to anyone of who He is or what He

has done; we don’t share the gift of life He gives. Are you willing to be a hero, to make a little sacrifice of your time, to have your comfort zone challenged and stretched in order to save a life today for eternity? In this gift giving season let us recall the greatest gift ever given, one that came from heaven, one that doesn’t fade, lose its value or deplete the bank account. Let us all be challenged as we stand in long checkout lines waiting with our purchases or to get a cup of coffee, to instead of talking about the weather, the latest breaking news or cool new gadget, ask if you can tell the person behind you about your Friend who died to save your life. Not everyone will accept the great news you have to offer, but it is not you they are rejecting, it’s your Friend, the One who wants to be their friend, the One who gives good gifts. Temporary or Eternal - What Gift Will You Give This Year?

By April James

WHAT GIFT

WILL YOU GIVE?

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

The Ambassador2

WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COMSPONSORSMinistry Partners - The generous support of our Ministry Partners and Business Sponsors allows The Ambassador to be distributed each month

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3

THE AMBASSADOR

Editor/Publisher - Seth Halpern - Advisory - Dave Kugelman - Design - James Halpern

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

Janis Maasenis an author

and ordained minister -available for

Speaking Engagementsand Weddings.

She can be reached at(530) 675-9663

The Bride Church655 Colusa Hwy, YC

530-751-0505thebridechurch.orgSun. 9am & 11am

Craftsmen for Christ, Tue. 6:30

Church of Glad Tidings1179 Eager Road, Yuba City

www.churchofgladtidings.com530.671.3160

Saturday 7pm - Sunday 10:00amWednesday 7pm

Samaritan Village OrphanageTanzania, Africa

You CAN help save the lives of

Call Tara (530-329-6619)or see page 16 to learn how

children in Tanzania!

Praise Chapel398 Aylor Avenue Yuba City www.praisechapelyubacity.org

530-923-7204Sun. 10am, Wed. 7pmPastor Chris Madsen

WORD OF LIFE CHURCH1229 Buchanan Street, Marysville

wolmarysville.org530-742-3724

Sun. 10am & 5pm & Wed. 6:30pmPastor Stan Reynolds

Janis MaasenIs an author

and ordained misiter available for




and ordained minister available for



Agape LighthouseCommunity Church2106 Pepper Street, Sutter

Pastor BJ Wilson530-237-6351

TWIN CITIES RESCUE MINISTRIES

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WORD OF LIFE CHURCH1229 Buchanan Street, Marysville

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4

INSPIRATION

The experience God used to save my life that day was very simple, lasting only a brief moment. Surely the vessel He involved could not have known the impact she had made. Initially, He had orchestrated this in heaven, long before its pleasant waves washed over me. A desperation for tangible love, following a painful rejection, insisted I look for it, while a carrier of His presence unknowingly released it. It took the warmth and unrelenting love of Jesus, whose aim is perfect, to gently move it from my eyes into my spirit where He planted it as a seed. He used that seed of love to captivate me in that moment, and then to continually stir me as I walked my journey each following step. But what happened upon impact, the radiating sweetness of it, is what I recall so clearly. I moved from treading water in the cold ocean to sitting on the shore in warm sand, from being overwhelmed by a lie to holding hands with the truth. What on earth could have this power? If you had been there with me you still wouldn’t know. It seemed insignificant, too much so to really be all that I am describing. Except...it was permeated and leavened with the breath of God.

In passing a complete stranger, there was a moment of unhurried eye contact that gave way to a tender and lingering smile. It poured over me like a healing oil, drawing my eyes away from pain and focusing them upon my Healer as He quietly said, “You’re going to be okay.” Perhaps the woman that day was you. Can you imagine how many times you have been her to someone else? Oh, Father, impress upon us the significance and influence we have upon humanity, even as we breeze by them, when we give You the invitation to touch them through us. Today God could use you or me to save someone’s life through something as simple as our smile.

CHARLIE BROWN GETS ITBy Jon Skillman

She SmiledBy Rebecca Cofer

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Recently, my wife and I visited the Charles M. Schulz museum in Santa Rosa. This is something I have wanted to do for sometime now. I’ve been a fan of the Peanuts Comic Strip for as long as I can remember, and I have a special affinity with many of the Peanuts characters. I don’t know whether Schulz was a man of faith or not but I often sensed a biblical truth interwoven in his humor. Schulz seemed to have a true understanding of the human condition and the ability to express it through the desires and fears of his characters. Although I have a fondness for all of Schulz’s personalities, Linus has become my favorite. Linus, the long suffering little brother of his most domineering and extraordinarily crabby big sister Lucy, somehow manages to be the most cerebral and spiritual of the entire Peanuts gang (barring, of course, his fervent dependence on his blanket and his unfaltering belief in the Great Pumpkin). However, Linus does on occasion, quote directly from scripture and it is not in a mocking fashion as in many comic

strips. To me, the most poignant of Linus’ biblical quotes is found in the animated TV classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas. A Charlie Brown Christmas has aired every year since 1965 and has become a traditional must see for families worldwide. The story follows Good Ole’

Charlie Brown as he encounters the ever-increasing commercialization of Christmas and how it and secularization has hidden the true meaning of Christmas. After several unsuccessful attempts to find the true meaning of Christmas, Charlie cries out in frustration, “Isn’t there anyone who can tell me what Christmas is all about?” To which Linus replies, “Sure Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about:” “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks by night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were terrified. And the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men…” Luke 2:8-14. “And that’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown.” Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we returned our focus to Christ at Christmas? He seems to have been relegated to the shadow of Santa and hidden behind the glittering lights of the tree. How could this have happened when Christ is the true gift giver and the light of the world? How did Christmas become a time of stress and anxiety when it started out as such Good News, Joy and Peace? Linus got it right…Christ is what Christmas is all about.

“A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good

health.”Proverbs 15:30

NLT


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5

INSPIRATION“Keeping the Faith” By Ronnie McBrayer

All Means All

Leaving by Paula McBride

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Leaving. The word carries sadness laced with bittersweet. A child leaves home for college, the military, or personal independence. A bride dances out of her daddy’s arms into the arms of her husband. Career persons leave jobs to advance in their professions. Here at the Mission, many have left a comfortable lifestyle and precious family members to minister to the needy of the San Quintin Valley. Alternately, missionaries have left here after their time of service to return home. Orphans are adopted and leave with their forever families. I’m not getting used to it. It still hurts to say good-bye. Leaving, a theme as old as time, has been woven into humanity since Adam and Eve left the garden. Throughout the Bible, examples are given of commoners and kings who left something to follow a promise, inherit a blessing, or to experience God’s corrective hand. Take the Christmas story, for example. Mary left Nazareth to visit her cousin Elizabeth in Judah. We can only speculate her reasons. Was it to hide her pregnancy as long as she could? Did the community of Nazareth reject her? Whatever the reason, it must have been hard to leave her childhood home and venture into the unknown. But she was part of a promise that included her cousin. She left obediently and came back with a blessing. Then both Mary and Joseph left Nazareth to register in Joseph’s familial

city, Bethlehem. The danger from robbers and the effect on the unborn baby cannot be overstated. Can you hear their good-byes as they left their loved ones? Yet they followed the promise. The shepherds left their livelihood unguarded in the fields, and the wise men left the riches of their palaces to inherit a blessing. The shepherds had directions to their destination, but the wise men had to follow a mysterious heavenly body through tortuous deserts with only ancient writings and faith in their hearts to guide them. The greatest sacrifice in leaving was our precious Lord leaving the splendor of heaven to enter the womb of a woman and ignominiously travel through the birth canal to the most humble of dwellings. Yet He is the Promise! He is the reason the participants in this story could endure the sacrifices of leaving to gain the promise and the blessing. Sometimes people reject Christianity because they think they will have to give up something or leave something behind. That is usually true, but there is much blessing in following the promise. The same Lord who came at Christmas as a baby and rose at Easter as victor over death, will come again. Then we’ll leave for the last time. In heaven there will be no parting. That’s the promise, and it began when Christ left heaven to meet us here on earth. Let’s be sure we are ready to leave earth to meet Him in heaven. Merry Christmas!

“We three kings of Orient are.” So begins a favorite carol of the Advent season about the “Wise Men” who visit the newborn Jesus. And so begins a tale that takes inaccuracy and historical revisionism to a whole new level. Reverend John Henry Hopkins, Jr., who wrote the carol a century and a half ago, should have known better. First, we don’t know exactly how many kings there were. There could have been as few as two and up to almost any number. Tradition says that there were three (though some traditions mention twelve), and over time they were even given names: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. But these are apocryphal stories. Second, they were not “kings” from the Orient. They were Wise Men, or put more accurately, Magi. The Magi were astronomers – primitive by today’s standards – who were on the cutting edge of scientific and philosophical knowledge in their day. So it may be best to view these Magi as the uncanny combination of scientists, philosophers, and theologians – but not kings. And such men called Persia home (modern day Iran), not the Far East. Third, these men did not find the Christ child while “following yonder star.” They saw the star “in the East”

or “at the rising of the sun,” but then proceeded west to Palestine. The star did not reappear until they were already in Bethlehem. And finally, the Magi, technically, do not belong in the Nativity scene at all. They were latecomers to the Christmas party, maybe as late as Jesus’ second birthday. The quaking shepherds, singing angels, and lowing cattle had returned to life as normal long ago. On and on I could go ripping the veracity of this Christmas Carol apart, but that is not my intent. “We Three Kings” remains one of my favorite Holiday hymns to bellow out this time of year. My critique of it is to simply point out that apart from the accumulations of questionable tradition, we know little about these mysterious men from the East. And these traditions prevent us from embracing what we can learn from them – for the journey of the Magi is a fascinating exercise in unexpected faith. They came seeking the child who had been born king of the Jews, based almost entirely on the appearance of an enigmatic star. While history is rampant with explanations for this phenomena, one conclusion is certain:

Cont. on p.15


The Ambassador6

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

RIGHT TO LIFE MONTHLY MEETING1st Wed., 7pm (1st Wed of every month)St. Isisdore’s Community Parish Hall Conference Room. Business Meeting open to the all interested in pro-life issues. For more info, visit www.ysrtl.org

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

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

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

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

PRAYER VIGIL FOR LIFE!Last Wed of each month, 4-5pmYuba-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 if you are interested.

WESTWORD RIDERS MOTORCYCLE MINISTRYGridley Grill, 484 Hwy 99, GridleyDecember 21st at 8:30amThe WestWord Riders motorcycle fellowship meets the 3rd Saturday of each month. This months meeting will be followed by our Hope Point Toy Run to deliver gifts to our church family so dust off that helmet and join us! For any other information contact Willy Alongi at 701-1045.

CELEBRATE RECOVERYHope Point Nazarene, 600 N. George Washington Blvd, Yuba CityEach Wednesday, 6:30pmJoin us for this Christ-centered recovery group that provides a safe place for you with people who will love you through your pain, and celebrate with you during your victories. The group meets weekly, so visit us any time. Contact Pastor Mark or Pastor Dan at 671-1130 for more information.

WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COMCALENDARONGOING EVENTS

SPECIAL EVENTS

If your church or ministry is having an outreach activity that you would like to promote in ourcalendar, please send your item via email to

[email protected] the 15th of the month for a listing in the

following month’s issue.

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.

SAMARITAN VILLAGE MONTHLY MEETINGCall 329-6619 for location3rd Tue of each month, 6:30pmThis meeting is open to all who are interested in helping with an orphanage in Tanzania. For info call Tara at 329-6619

DIVORCE CAREWednesdays 7:00 - 8:30pmHosted at: The Church of Glad Tidings1179 Eager Road, YCInfo:530-671-6069www.YubaSutterMarriage.comA Divorce Care group is a special place of encouragement, information and sharing. Weekly meetings provide you with an ongoing “support team” as you deal with the issues surrounding your separation or divorce

CELEBRATE RECOVERYPraise Chapel ChurchSun. 6:30 p.m.Join us for great worship and open share group.For more info call 530-923-7204 CELEBRATE RECOVERYCrossroads Community Church Mondays at 6:30pmWe 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 a Christ-Centered recovery.For more information contact Scott McCoy at 530-776-7602 or Follow us on Facebook @Celebrate Recovery Crossroads Community Church

GUITAR LESSONS - NEW!Twin Cities Rescue Mission 940 14th St Marysville, CA 95901Mondays at 4:45pm-6:15pmWe are offering free guitar lessons led by Cliff Martin. Beginning and experienced guitar players of all ages are welcome. We practice chords as well as learn some Christian worship songs. All you need is a guitar! We hope to see you there.

Bible College - NEW!Twin Cities Rescue Mission, in dining room 940 14th street, MarysvilleStarts January 7th on Tuesday and Thursdays at 8:30am-12:30pmWe will be starting up our free Bible College again! Ephesians and James taught by Charlie Woods, 1st and 2nd Corinthians by Frank Weger, Gospel of John by Nancy Deeds, and 2nd Samuel by Roger Vaca.

NVCC CHRISTMAS TREE LOTNorth Valley Calvary Chapel; 613 Bogue Rd. in Yuba CityGrand opening November 29th and will run until Christmas Day or until we sell out of trees12 (Noon) to 8PM Monday- Friday10AM to10PM on Saturdays12 (Noon) to 6PM on SundaysThe NVCC Youth will be selling Christmas trees to earn money for their activities in 2014. Prices are very reasonable. Douglas Firs: 5-6 Foot $25, 6-7 Foot $32 Noble Firs: 5-6 Foot $32, 6-7 Foot $40

FAITH CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLASSIC TOURNAMENT3105 Colusa Highway, Yuba City-Clarence A. Summy Memorial GymnasiumDecember 5-7, 2013Boys and Girls Invitational Basketball Tournament. All are welcome to attend. Admission: $5.00 General and $3.00 Students, Seniors, & Active Duty Military. Tournament Pass for all 3 days is $10.00 (at the gate). Go to www.fcs-k12.org for game schedule.

CREATIVE LIGHT THEATER PRESENTS: “BETWEEN THE LINES”Embassy of Heaven Campus, Church of Glad TidingsHwy 99 & Eager Rd., Yuba CityDecember 6 - 107:00 PM Nightly - Admission FREEAn original musical comedy with a... serious twist. Jeff Decker is a lawyer in N. Calif. Tasha Rains is

finishing law school at UCLA. Join Jeff and Tasha and all the colorful people surrounding them as they navigate a long-distance engagement, and see how love makes all the difference for broken, hopeless people. Info: 530.671.3160. www.churchofgladtidings.com

HOPE POINT KIDS CHOIR PRESENTS SHINE YOUR LIGHT!Hope Point Nazarene, 600 N. George Washington Blvd, Yuba CitySunday December 8th, 7pmJoin our ‘Wise Guys’ as they learn what the Light of Christmas really is. Contact the church office for more details

FAITH CHRISTIAN CHRISTMAS CONCERT AND ART SHOW3101 Colusa Highway, Yuba City (First United Methodist Church)Monday, December 9, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.Relax at an evening retreat from the hustle and bustle of the season. Enjoy music by the Orchestra, Jazz Band, and Concert Band then browse the fine art display and enjoy post-concert refreshments. No charge for Admission or refreshments.

TURNPraise Chapel, 398 Aylor Avenue, Yuba City, CA 95993December 12th -14th Thursday 7pm, Friday 10am & 7pm, Saturday 10am & 7pm. This is a conference geared towards young adults especially Pastor’s and Leader’s children, although all are welcome. All the speakers have grown up in church/ministry homes, and detail the unique challenges and difficulties of being a second (Sometimes 3rd.) generation Christian. Great worship bands are scheduled throughout the conferance.Contact Rachel Madsen for more info. 530.671.6323

A HAND UP MINISTRY/RIVER BOTTOM CHURCH CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AND MEALRiver Bottom Church at the Levee end of Lynn Way Yuba City December 21st at 11am Come join us for a holiday celebration of the birth of Christ with a wonderful feast and gift giving to those present

Ace Overcomers - NEW!Twin Cities Rescue Mission in dining room. 940 14th Street, Marysville Mondays, starting January 6th at 10am-11amThis class will be taught by Joe Grinnell. The purpose is to overcome emotional, physical, and spiritual effects of abuse and dysfunction through biblical principles. Learning skills to help evaluate our strengths and vulnerabilities. Being able to control our emotions and have self-worth that no one can take away. Being able to trust God and rest in His promises.


The Ambassador 7

WWW.AMBASSADORNEWSPAPER.COM RESOURCESCHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE AND MEALTwin Cities Rescue Mission 940 14th Street, Marysville December 24th at 12pmJoin us for our Christmas Eve service and meal. Joe Grinnell will be bringing the word of Jesus Christ as well as some worship by Kings Clay. Immediately after we will have a meal prepared and enjoy some fellowship.

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICESHope Point Nazarene, 600 N. George Washington Blvd, Yuba CityDecember 24th, 5pm & 7pmJoin us for either of our Christmas Eve Services as we celebrate the coming of Christ. Childcare is available for kids 3 & under

FCS CHRISTMAS INVITATIONAL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT3105 Colusa Highway, Yuba City-Clarence A. Summy Memorial GymnasiumDecember 26-28, 2013High School Boys and Girls Basketball Tournament. All are welcome to attend. Admission: $5.00 General and $3.00 Students, Seniors, & Active Duty Military. Tournament Pass for all 3 days is $10.00 (at the gate). Go to www.fcs-k12.org for game schedule.

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Anxiety: Its Cause and Its Cure

By Daryl Wingerd

Anxiety is the natural human response to trouble. For some people anxious thoughts are short-lived and mild, even during severe difficulty. But for others, anxiety leads to sleeplessness, depression, and even physical illness. Jesus was frank in calling anxiety sin. While telling His followers not to worry (a command given four times in Matthew 6), He says to the worrier, “You of little faith” (Matt. 6:30), thus informing us that anxiety is a form of unbelief. In the overall passage (Matt. 6:25-34), we learn that the worrier approaches life’s difficulties from the perspective of self-reliance rather than trust in a loving God who knows, cares, and provides.

Even though unchecked anxiety is a form of unbelief, Jesus doesn’t conclude that the person who struggles with “little faith” is necessarily an unbeliever. Nor does he rebuke the worrying believer harshly. Instead He reasons with us, relating truths about God’s care for His own, about why worrying is the wrong response to trouble in this life, and about why trusting our loving, dependable Father is better. In addressing anxiety in this positive, encouraging way, Jesus lives out the words of Proverbs 12:25:

Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down,

But a good word makes it glad.

Jesus’ “good word” concerning anxiety is one of many provided for believers in the Bible. Here are seven

good words to make your heart glad: 1. When all is said and done, you cannot lose. Anxiety is ultimately about losing something you value (perhaps money, a job, the approval of others, social status, health, comfort, relationships, or even life itself). It is true that any one of these might be taken away, but since none of them are your greatest treasure as a Christian, the loss of them does not represent ultimate loss.

Your greatest treasure, which can never

Cont. on p.9


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8

IN THE NEWS...

Cont. on p.12

By Stoyan Zaimov, Christian Post ReporterChristianpost.com

The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom ruled on Wednesday against the Christian owners of a bed and breakfast hotel who refused to allow a gay couple to stay. “Sexual orientation is a core component of a person’s identity which requires fulfillment through relationships with others of the same orientation,” explained Lade Hale, deputy president of the Supreme Court, according to The Guardian. “Homosexuals can enjoy the same freedom and the same relationships as any others. But we should not under-estimate the continuing legacy of those centuries of discrimination, persecution even, which is still going on in many parts of the world,” Hale added in the decision.Peter and Hazelmary Bull, a Christian couple from Cornwall, had challenged an earlier court decision that had them pay $5,000 in damages for refusing to allow a gay couple to stay at one of their double rooms. “We are deeply disappointed and saddened by the outcome. We are just ordinary Christians who believe in the importance of marriage as the union of one man and one woman,” Hazelmary Bull said after the ruling.

“Our B&B is not just our business, it’s our home. All we have ever tried to do is live according to our own values, under our own roof. These beliefs are not based on hostility to anyone – we certainly bear no ill will to Steven and Martyn. Our policy is based on our sincere beliefs about marriage,” Bull said, referring to the gay couple.Bull added that she believes Britain should be a country of freedom and tolerance, but religious beliefs seem to have been relegated to “second fiddle” in favor of political correctness.“We appealed to the supreme court to introduce a bit more balance when dealing with competing rights of sexual orientation and religious liberty. Somehow, we have got to find a way of allowing different beliefs to coexist in our society. But the judges have sidestepped that big issue, and reinforced the notion that gay rights must trump everything else.” The Christian couple, who opened the Chymorvah guesthouse in 1986, previously said that they were “besieged” by demands for double rooms by homosexual couples as a response to their policy against gay couples, and had received “abusive and menacing” phone calls. Gay rights group Stonewall

UK Supreme Court: Christian B&B Owners Have To Host Gay Couples

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By Morgan Lee Christian Post ReporterChristianpost.com

Despite facing a challenging time in his football career over recent seasons, Tim Tebow has assured that he is happy and well. The football star is crediting his persistently positive outlook to his faith, saying that his identity has never been defined by him being a football player, but instead comes from who he is in Jesus Christ.

“I’ve never found my identity in who I was as a football player. I found my identity in who I am in Christ. And when you find your identity as a Christian, then regardless of your status, or your fame, or your popularity, or your position, that never changes,” Tebow told Sports Illustrated. “So the roller-coaster that the world has always looked at my life and viewed, I’m very thankful that I don’t have to live it.” “I’m the best now that I’ve ever

been,” the currently unemployed athlete added. In 2007, then-Florida Gators quarterback Tebow won the Heisman Trophy. That same year and in 2009, he won a national championship. In 2011, as Denver Broncos’ back-up quarterback, Tebow resurrected the beleaguered team and spurred them to roughly half a dozen come-from-behind wins that ultimately catapulted the team into the playoffs. However, in 2012 Tebow was traded to the Jets, where his career took a big hit as he sat on the bench for most of the season. He was picked up by and played with the Patriots in the 2013 preseason but was ultimately cut before the regular season began. Now in a seven part article, Sports Illustrated is chronicling Tebow’s career highlights as an award-winning collegiate athlete and juxtaposes that against his uneven play at the professional level. It also examines the athlete on a cultural level, discussing the work Tebow does through his charity and explores the tension of being a high-profile athlete in the most popular sport in the United States. For instance, Tebow’s decision to speak, and then back out of the gig, at the First Baptist Church of Dallas in April of this year, drew the ire of some

“My Identity Is Not as a Football Player, But Who I Am In Jesus Christ” - Tim Tebow

Cont. on p.12

The Ambassador


9


RESOURCES

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

Marty BrownWarren & Lucy Campbell

Chuck DavidBob Gilbert

Pamela GivansRich & Joan Hackney

Tom HarrisMarie Hiebert

Brad IndelicatoHope Ithurburn

Sandi JuriSue Kochi

Carrie PedersonWendell Prine

Jeff RoyceJon & Pat Skillman

An out of state donor

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

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be taken away, is the heavenly inheritance of eternal life. (Eph. 1:3-14 and 1 Pet. 1:3-9) 2. Whatever problems you are facing, God is on your side. Your greatest former enemy (God) is fully reconciled with you and is your most faithful Friend. God is for you, not against you. He is an all-powerful and faithful defender and protector. God loves you as one of His dear children, cares about your troubles, and offers to carry them for you. (Ps. 34, Rom. 8:31-32, and 1 Pet. 5:6-7) 3. Your greatest problem has already been taken care of. Your sins are all forgiven because of the work of Jesus Christ. Though you will be disciplined by a loving Father, you will never face vindictive punishment for the wrongs you have committed. (Ps. 103:8-12 and 1 Cor. 15:50-57). 4. Your greatest struggle in this life has been overcome. Because of Jesus’ work on the cross and the Holy

Spirit’s work in your heart, you have been set free from sin and are no longer a slave to fleshly passions. (Rom. 6:12-23 and 8:1-4). 5. Your greatest Advocate, Jesus Christ, understands your troubles. Having faced worse problems than yours and having successfully waged His own intense battle against the temptation to be anxious (Luke 22:39-44), Jesus now intercedes on your behalf in the presence of God the Father. (Rom. 8:33-35; Heb. 4:14-16, 7:23-25, and 1 John 2:1). 6. Your worst troubles in this life are God’s gift to you and are strengthening your faith. Even if what you are anxious about ends in the worst earthly outcome imaginable, God causes it all to work together for your ultimate good. (James 1:2-3 and Rom. 8:28). 7. The worst of all possible outcomes—separation from God’s love—can never happen to you. What

you have gained by God’s grace can never be taken away through earthly trials. (Rom. 8:31-39). Relief from anxiety is available to you right now, in the midst of your worst troubles. God promises His peace in any situation for those who will pray to Him and meditate on the “good word” of His promises (Phil. 4:6-8). So what is there really to worry about? God is your Father, and many of your brothers and sisters (i.e., other

believers) have experienced sweet relief from anxiety by trusting in His promises. Why should you not experience the same benefit? Why should His good word not make your heart glad?

When my anxious thoughts multiply within me,

Your consolations delight my soul. (Ps. 94:19)

Copyright © 2011 Daryl Wingerd. www.CCWtoday.org

ANXIETY Cont. from p.7

The Ambassador10


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December 6-7-8thFriday - Sunday

Over 350 Volunteers Present...* 15 Scenes from the life of Christ * Live animals and actors * Follow the story of Jesus thru Scripture * Christmas Carols * It’s our gift to the community (free)

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1. At which sponsor’s store(s) would you probably find stocking stuffers?2. Which sponsor might you call to help get your house ready for holiday company?3. How much is a subscription to The Ambassador?4. Which ministry listed in this issue focuses on helping children in Africa?5. Where is the Charles Schultz Museum located?6. What day and time can you hear The Ambassador Radio Show?7. What local church is having a conference for youth that is listed in our calendar?8. What dog groomer/trainer is listed in the Marketplace?9. Name one of the movies reviewed by Movieguide in this issue?10. Where do you pick up your copy of The Ambassador?

Answers may be mailed or emailed. Address info is on the cover. Entries must be received by Dec 20th.

Ambassador Challenge


The Ambassador


12

RESOURCES6 Tips for Happier, Healthier Relationships

praised the Supreme Court for defending the rights of gay customers, and argued that “a far more Christian thing to do would be to fight the evils of poverty and disease worldwide.” Mike Judge from the Christian Institute argued, however, that what the case “shows is that the powers of political correctness have reached all the way to the top of the judicial tree, so much so that even the Supreme Court dare not say anything against gay rights.” Gay marriage is set to become legal in England and Wales in 2014 after the U.K. Parliament passed such legislation in July.

COURT Cont. from p.8

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Christians. Robert Jeffers, the church’s pastor, miffed that Tebow had responded to critics who had labeled the church as “anti-gay” and “anti-semitic,” accused him of “[kneeling] at the altar of political correctness,” and defended his church’s stance and tone. “Now, there are some people who would say, ‘Well, God’s given me a different ministry. God has called me to go out and preach about the love of God. That’s what I’m called to do. I’m not called to preach about sin, and talk about controversial things. I’ve been called to talk about the love of God. And they’re sincere when they say that. But they are sincerely wrong. The fact is, you cannot talk about the love of God—the love of God has no meaning whatsoever unless you understand the judgment of God that all of us deserve,” Jeffers told his congregation, as quoted and italicized by Sports Illustrated. Tebow told Sports Illustrated that much of his decision to back out came because he wanted to be able to share his faith in a loving manner that avoided being divisive. “Christianity is not a religion. Christianity is having a relationship with Jesus Christ. And, you know, one of my bigger goals is to be able to break that down. Break some of those barriers, and bring people together. Say, ‘You know what? We’re on the same team. We’re on the same side. And let’s bring people together’,” he said.

“I wanna be someone, as a person, that is, is loving. That is not judging. We all have our faults. We all fail. We all mess up. We all make mistakes. So I’m not gonna be someone that is gonna try to point that out in other people. I wanna be someone that loves them. You know?” Tebow added. “I’m a big ‘quote person,’ and one of my favorite quotes, and I forgot who it’s from, but it’s, Every day we share the Gospel. But every now and then we use words. You know? Meaning, we share what we believe every day in how we act. How we treat people. How we love people.” Since his release from the Patriots, Tebow has been out of the NFL, although some disgruntled Jacksonville Jaguar fans have been trying to convince their owner to give him an opportunity to join them and help pick up their 2-9 record.

TEBOW Cont. from p.8

By Ron EdmondsonRonedmondson.com

It’s that time of year again. Thanksgiving. Then Christmas. Family and friends. Good food and good times.Mostly. Truthfully, this time of year is especially stressful for some. I am not referring, in this post, to the ones who have lost loved ones this year. That’s especially difficult. My prayers go out for you. I’m talking about those who have living “loved ones”…positionally speaking at least. The holidays expose many people to broken relationships, hurt feelings, grudges from the past. Many will have to be around people, by default, that they wouldn’t choose to be around unless those people were blood relatives…or in-laws…or friends who aren’t your friends, but come with the package of celebration. They will be there…and the reality of that causes you to be less enthusiastic about celebrating this year. That’s true, isn’t it? And, the truth hurts sometimes…doesn’t it?(Raise your hand if that’s your story.). What should you do? How should you respond to the one who has hurt you the most…or who always seems to say the wrong thing…or who is…honestly…even mean at times? How do you respond to the most difficult relationships in your

life? I want to encourage the Biblical approach.Here are six tips: Bite your tongue – When you are tempted to snap back…don’t. Sure, it will be difficult…even seemingly unfair at times, but see it as spiritual discipline training. (James 1:26) Extend grace – Forgive. Let go of a grudge. Even though it may not be received well and nothing may change in the relationship, it will change you. (1 Peter 4:10, Colossians 3:13) Put on another’s shoes – Anyone who hurts you…has a story. Usually they were hurt too…by someone. Remember…hurt people…hurt people. Think about where the other person is coming from before (or as) you encounter them. (Philippians 2:3-4) Practice patience – Be honest, some relationships require more patience than you thought you had, don’t they? But, isn’t that what we are called to do as believers? It is a “fruit of the spirit”. (Colossians 3:12-14) Exercise humility – When we humble ourselves, we may get taken advantage of at times, but God always rewards humility. Who knows? It may be the break point in the relationship. (James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:6)

Cont. on p.15

The Ambassador


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RESOURCES

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FROZEN is one of the best modern princess movies from Disney. Princess Anna and Elsa are best friends and sisters. Elsa has the power to produce ice, but when she accidently hurts Anna, she’s sent to her room. Years later, after their parents die at sea, Elsa must be crowned to finally open the castle gates. Elsa fears the entire time that she cannot control her power. After getting in a fight with Anna, she freezes the entire kingdom and flees. Elsa builds herself an isolated ice castle. Anna goes to look for her sister to show her love and convince her to bring summer back to the kingdom. FROZEN is one of Disney’s most entertaining, inspiring movies. It shows love isn’t about lust, but sacrifice. Elsa learns there’s a right and wrong. She also learns you can’t isolate yourself, but must help others. FROZEN has a very strong redemptive, moral worldview. It also has incredible animation and wonderful songs, with plot twists that advance the story in positive directions. FROZEN not only has an uplifting worldview, great story, and incredible animation. It’s also very funny.

BLACK NATIVITY is a musical drama inspired by Langston Hughes’ play. The story follows Langston, a teenager living with his single mother in Baltimore. With Christmas right around the corner, Langston finds out he and his mother are being evicted from their home. Nowhere to go, his mother decides to send Langston alone to stay with his grandparents in Harlem. For some reason, Langston’s mother stopped speaking to them right before he was born. Her decision to send Langston to Harlem sparks tension, reveals secrets, and tests everyone’s faith. BLACK NATIVITY is a moving, powerful story that extols God’s Grace, faith, and family. The cast does a wonderful job bringing their characters to life. The musical numbers are beautiful. The ones at the end are brilliantly integrated into the family’s story. Best of all, BLACK NATIVITY has an uplifting, inspiring message of Christian faith. Filled with Scripture, Gospel songs, worship, and prayer, BLACK NATIVITY makes a clarion call for reconciliation through forgiveness. There’s a threat of violence in one scene and a couple “d” obscenities, so MOVIEGUIDE® advises a light caution for BLACK NATIVITY.

by Dr. Ted Baehrmovieguide.org

By Eric Metaxas,Christian Post Contributor

In 1897, a fifty-year-old Irish business manager of a London theater created one of the most iconic figures in all of fiction, Dracula. Bram Stoker’s creation wasn’t the first vampire-there’d been at least two novels featuring vampires published previously-but his Count created the template that has been used countless times since. “Countless” isn’t merely a figure of speech. Search for “vampire” at Amazon and you’ll get more than forty thousand results in books alone, and that number’s climbing. A similar search involving movies and television yields about 3,600 results. Nearly all of these, such as the “Twilight” and “Vampire Diaries” series, have nothing in common with Stoker’s creation-apart from bloody fangs. The latest entry, NBC’s “Dracula,” claims to be a more faithful descendant to its late-Victorian forebear. Based on the first two episodes, however, that resemblance is skin-deep. It’s gorgeous skin, to be sure. Filmed in Budapest, the costumes, scenery and production evoke late-Victorian England, down to the plummy accents. Readers of the novel will recognize the characters: Jonathan Harker, his fiancée Mina Murray, her flirtatious best friend

Lucy Westenra, the Count’s faithful servant, Renfield, and Abraham van Helsing. Mind you, more than a few liberties have been taken with them, however. Harker is a journalist, not a lawyer; Murray is a brilliant medical student, and Renfield hasn’t eaten a single fly and is unlikely to. None of this would matter if “Dracula,” the TV series, were faithful to the spirit of the novel; but it isn’t. To understand why, it helps to understand the role Christianity plays in the novel. By this, I don’t mean that Stoker set out to write a specifically Christian tale or that he thought of himself as a Christian writer or even as a Christian. But what I do mean is that its imagery and story are indebted to Christianity, and do not make sense without it. For starters, in Bram Stoker’s version, Dracula, whose name means “son of the Dragon,” i.e., the Devil, is literally an anti-Christ. Jesus shed his blood to bring men eternal life-Dracula takes other’s blood to give himself eternal life. While most people know about Dracula’s aversion to crucifixes, that’s only one of the many Christian symbols and rites Van Helsing and company employ against the powers of darkness.

Still a Demon:Dracula and Christianity

Cont. on p.16


The Ambassador


14

COMMUNITY

The Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society’s Yuba Sutter Symphony and Chorus will be presenting their 75th annual performance of Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, December 8, at 4:30pm at St. Isidore Catholic Church, 222 Clark Avenue, in Yuba City. Handel’s Messiah uses words directly from scripture to tell the story of the prophesy of Christ’s birth, his actual birth, ministry, crucifixion, resurrection, and eternal reign. It begins with the memorable words from Isaiah 40 that God is coming to comfort his people. It concludes with the popular Hallelujah Chorus. A chorus of 80 voices will be accompanied by a full orchestra of 40 players as the Yuba Sutter Symphony and Chorus present this timeless Christmas classic. The performance will be conducted by Corey Kersting. Choral director is Linda Robinson. The concert is free with a freewill offering being received. Messiah for Kids to Be Presented In recognition of the 75th annual performance of Handel’s Messiah by the Yuba Sutter Oratorio society’s Yuba Sutter Symphony and Chorus, there will be a very unique 45-minute presentation of Messiah for Kids and their families at 11:00am Saturday, December 7, at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 1390

Franklin Road, Yuba City. The full symphony and chorus will perform at this special event that will introduce the words and music of Handel’s Messiah especially for children and their families. Corey Kersting, conductor of the Yuba Sutter Symphony states, “The Messiah for Kids concert is specifically aimed at helping children begin to know and appreciate this timeless Christmas music that so many of us have loved for so long. The concert will include children reading the scripture passages and special explanations by the conductor and others regarding the music and text of Messiah. I believe this will be a perfect way for families to begin the holiday season by celebrating the birth of Jesus is this special way. This will be a wonderful opportunity for children and their families to hear a full symphony orchestra with a huge chorus in a setting that is ‘kid friendly’.” The concert is free!! Further information is available at the Yuba Sutter Oratorio Society’s website: YSOS.org.

75th Annual Performance of Handel’s Messiah in Yuba City

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The Ambassador


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COMMUNITY

through The Depot

Cynthia My name is Cynthia Ballew and I am 45 years old. I came to the Salvation Army Depot broken and lost. I had some incidents that happened to me as a child that left me playing the victim role. At the age of eighteen, I started using meth and added alcohol to my issues. I have been in five different relationships all of which were physically, emotionally and verbally abusive. At the age of 44, knowing that my life was out of control, I started searching and crying out for help. My soul was lost and broken. I had no faith in anyone or anything including myself. On my 45th birthday, I prayed that if there was a God that He would help me get out of my present lifestyle and I live a better one. I kept praying to a God I wasn’t even sure of or if He was listening to me.After praying for a couple of months, I started thinking that God was real and that he might be listening to my prayers because I saw other’s prayers being answered. Also, He did answer

If you would like to experience the peace and transformed life that Cynthia did and you are willing to commit your life to the only one who can truly set you free from your sin, you can pray to the Lord right now and ask Him to forgive you of your sins. Because of what His Son, Jesus, did by dying on the cross, your sins will not be held against you by God anymore. You can experience freedom for the rest of your life on earth and then have a life in Heaven with God for eternity. God’s part of the deal is already done. Your part is to confess your sins, repent (or change your ways) and believe that He is Lord. If your life is out of control, let Him take over control. For help, questions, or more information, contact us at The Ambassador or any of the churches listed on p. 3..

my prayers because I was accepted into the Salvation Army DepotI was given the opportunity to move into the Depot for 6 months. While living in the Depot, I was taught new skills on how to manage my life. I was taught that I am responsible for myself and that I don’t have to live the lifestyle I had been living. Working with the wonderful staff at the Depot, I gained many great techniques for dealing with life’s problems as they arise. I am now living at transitional housing and I am starting to get my life back on track.The wonderful staff has taught me that it was okay to love myself and they loved me until I was able to love myself. I now have a great relationship with God. I now know and believe that He is real and will always be there for me in good or bad times. The Salvation Army taught me to trust in God and to give my all to Him. God and the Salvation Army have given me my life back to me when I thought there was no hope. Miracles do happen at the Salvation Army Depot Family Crisis center.

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The Magi interpreted this unusual sign in the heavens as a clear communication that something extraordinary had taken place in the world. And even more extraordinary, these Persian sages applied their interpretation to the emergence of Jesus, the Jewish Messiah.Why so astonishing? Not many people would launch out on a dangerous journey through the Middle East based solely on a spiritual hunch. Not many people would put their life on hold to prove their mystical intuitions to be true. And the most shocking of all, not many Persians (today’s Iranians) would worship at the feet (or manger) of a Jew. And not many Jews could abide by such a thing, either! Yet, in God’s way, these all belonged together. Divisions of race, religion, nationality or ethnicity did not factor into the equation. This is a foreshadowing of what the Apostle Paul would say later. “In Christ,” he said, “there is no difference between Jew and Greek, slave and free person, male and female. You are all the same in Christ Jesus” (See Galatians 3). And “all” does mean “all.” All are welcome into the presence of the One who will “reconcile everything – all things in heaven and on earth to himself.” So here is where the Magi teach us the wisest of their lessons: There are many barriers to overcome and great distances to cover in our journey of faith – “field and fountain, moor and mountain” to quote Reverend Hopkins – but when we get to where we are going, we will we

welcomed in with open arms. There we will find the “King forever, ceasing never, over us all to reign.” And “all” surely means “all.”

Ronnie McBrayer is a syndicated columnist, pastor, and author of multiple books. You can read more and receive regular e-columns in your inbox at www.ronniemcbrayer.me.

FAITH Cont. from p.5

Pray for them – The last one is sometimes the most difficult…but oh how Biblical! Prayer releases the burden to the burden bearer…the One whose yoke is easy…the One who paid for your sins. Prayer can even change the dynamics of a relationship. Pray for the awkward, difficult, shattered and broken relationships in your life…and the people who caused them. In the most tense moments this holiday season, slip away and pray. (Matthew 5:44)

Apply liberally, as needed.

You’ll have healthier, happier relationships this Thanksgiving and Christmas season…and even into the New Year.

6 TIPS Cont. from p.12


The Ambassador


16

COMMUNITY

Join us from noon to 1pm at the Bonanza Innthe first Tuesday of every month for a time of

encouragement, fellowship and prayer with theChristian Business Alliance.

All are welcome!

Samaritan Village OrphanageTanzania, Africa

Joseph(DOB: Oct. 10th, 2006)

Joseph was born near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. He, along with his twin brother Paul live at Samaritan Village. Their mother was a member of the Sonjo Tribe who are Nomadic Hunter Gatherers. She traveled 70 km from her tribe to a Convent to deliver, but then died. The people at the Convent traveled to the Sonjo Tribe to bring the babies back to them, but the Tribe’s belief is that caring for children whose mother has passed away following birth is a bad omen, so they refused to accept the twins. Joseph and Paul stayed in the Convent and were baptized at the age of one month. They were then transferred to Samaritan Village. Both Joseph and Paul attend St. Monica’s school.

A gift of $60. monthly will provide for Joseph’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.

You may follow us on Facebook @ Samaritan Village Orphanage 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 Tara @ 530-329-6619 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

Can You Sponsor Joseph?

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

CBA MARKETPLACE MONTHLY

CBA Christmas Activitiesby Seth Halpern

In December, the Christian Business Alliance will be celebrating the Christmas season in two new ways. First, this will be the first year that we have scheduled a “CBA Salvation Army Bell Ringer Day!” Members and friends of the Christian Business Alliance will be at the red kettle in front of Sam’s Club on Wednesday, Dec 11th from 11am – 7pm to help raise funds for those in need this winter. Also, this year the Christian Business Alliance will host a “CHRISTmas Party” on Tuesday, Dec 17th from noon to 2pm at the Bonanza Inn in Yuba City. We are inviting the staff and clients of Twin Rivers Crisis Center to be our guests. In addition, CBA members will be presenting gifts to the woman and their children. As Christians first and business people second, Christian Business Alliance members are hoping to be used to bless those in need and to show the love of Christ through our actions. If you would like to participate in these activities or would like more information about the Christian Business Alliance contact Dave Kugelman 530-632-9292 or Seth Halpern 530-933-1385.

As he tells his charges, they are “ministers of God’s own wish,” striving so “the world, and men for whom His Son died, will not be given over to monsters, whose very existence would defame Him.” In some ways all you need to know about NBC’s “Dracula” is that in its version, Van Helsing and Dracula are allies. Indeed, it was Van Helsing who awoke Dracula from his slumber. And what Van Helsing awoke, while a monster, is an attractive and often-sympathetic one. He is more than a blood-sucking demon. He is also a “freedom fighter” of sorts, waging war against a shadowy cabal known as the Order of the Dragon. Played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers who previously played another monster in Showtime’s “The Tudors,” it’s easy to forget who the monster is supposed to be, especially when his enemies are so stuffy and he is, as one cast member put it, “stronger, sexier, and naughtier” than Stoker’s original. Then again, demons often are, which doesn’t make them any less demonic, a fact that was not lost on Dracula’s original creator.

DEMON Cont. from p.13


The Ambassador


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COMMUNITY\

3-Dec Localofficialsandcommunityleaders4-Dec Caregiversofelderlyanddisabled5-Dec Homeless/Poor-TwinCitiesRescueMission,AHandUp, R.E.S.T6-Dec Adoptivefamilies&birthmoms-LifetimeAdoption(p.3)7-Dec Marriages,RestorationandStrength8-Dec Forboldness&protectiontostandforTruthwithout compromise9-Dec Joseph&otherorphanchildren-SamaritanVillage(seep.3)10-Dec Military,Allarmedforces&theirfamilies.11-Dec Addicted,Rehabministries-12-Dec LGBTindividuals-forGodtorevealtruth13-Dec Prayforhomelessministries14-Dec AreaYouth-LocalYouthministers/Youthgroups15-Dec AmbassadorRadioShow/KCYC104.7forlistenerimpact16-Dec Jobsforunemployed/underemployed17-Dec ChristianBusinesses-AmbassadorSponsors&others.18-Dec Sick/Afflicted,HealingandComfort19-Dec AWoman’sFriend-Unbornchildren/PregnantWomen20-DecTheAmbassadorNewspaper-IncreasedreadershipandImpact21-Dec GlobalPersecution-Safety/CourageofBelievers22-Dec AreaSchoolsStudentsandTeachers23-DecMiddleEast-ForthepeaceofJerusalem24-DecSexTrafficking-prayfortherescueofvictims25-Dec Christmas-ReflectthebirthoftheSavior!26-DecLocalministries(seep.3)27-Dec ChildrenandChildren’sMinistries28-DecMarketplaceMinistries-Opportunitiestoshare29-DecUnityamongchurches30-DecSingles,SingleParents,Divorcehealing31-Dec NewYear’sEve-Safetyontheroad1-Jan NewYear’sDay-ResolvetofollowChrist2-Jan TeenDepression,Suicide3-Jan Missionaries-Fruit,Provision

Prayer Calendar for

December 2013

For weekly reminders, updates, or to join email [email protected]

A-1 Carpet Cleaning - (530) 673-3634 - www.a-1clean.comKathy Baum - Operation Christmas Child - (916) 747-2212

Ron Brasier - A Hand Up Ministry - (530) 671-1360Marty Brown - KCYC-LP FM - (530) 674-5296

Kathleen Caldwell - City of Live Oak - (530) 695-2112Fred Cox - Richard's Tree Service - (530) 673-7993

Chuck DavidBrent Davis - Brent Davis Insurance - (530) 671-2764

Carol Dodds - A Woman’s Friend - (530) 741-9136Bill Eberley - Digital Direct - (800) 824-4246x10

Dennis Gable - Operation Christmas Child - (530) 695-1495Bob Gilbert - www.yourbettertomorrows.acndirect.com - (775) 722-1212

Pamela GivansMarcos Gonzalez - Ultimate Business Maintenance - (530) 671-1564

John L. Guth - Attorney/Estate Planning - www.johnguthlaw.comJames Halpern - Remembrance Video Tributes - www.remembrancetributes.com

Seth Halpern - Ambassador Newspaper - [email protected] Hobbs Painting - Cont. Lic#880562 (530)742-2428David Holycross - Holycross Memorial – 530-751-7000Cassandra Hoon- A Better Yard Care - 530-673-3722

Brad Indelicato - Dolco Packaging - [email protected] Ingraham - [email protected]

Bill Jens - Yuba Sutter Healthy Marriage Project - (530) 671-6069Sandi Juri

Dave Kugelman - Proforma by Kug - (530) 742-2423Clay Maynard - Consultant - (530) 790-6611

Carmel Mooney - Pawsitive Solutions - pawsitivesolutions.comJerry Munz - JM Construction Co. - (530) 682-5316

Jared Nunes - Sutter HealthChuck & Miriam Page

Ronda PutmanDarrell Sayles - Love Unlimited Body of Christ - [email protected]

Roger Shadd - Shadd Janitorial Supply - 530-673-0083Robert Stark - Sutter county Auditor/Controller - suttercountyauditor.org

Dwayne Tanabe - Taylor Accountancy Corp - [email protected] Tanabe - Jenine L. Tanabe, MD Dematology - (530) 743-0301

Bill Weeks - Larry Geweke Ford-Kia - www.geweke.comKim Worthy - Stretch-A-Buck - 530-674-2275

Rich Fellowship, Powerful Prayer, Refreshing Presence of God! We meet at the Bonanza Innthe �rst Tuesday of the month from noon – 1pm.

Current members:

Excellent Massage Care $2500Exp. 12/31/13

Brenda Banducci, CMT, ABMP

(530) 701-4847397 Del Norte Ave, Yuba City, CA 95991

Reflexology - Deep Tissue -Couples Massage - Hot Stone - Exfoliating

30 MinuteBack, Neck &

Shoulder Massage-Free-

Back Glow Treatment I Love My Work”"Wonderful…I felt refreshed and energized!" Seth Halpern


The Ambassador18


EDITORIALAS WE SEE IT

Seth Halpern - Editor

Change

As the old saying goes, the only things that you can count on are death and taxes. I’ll add the faithfulness and love of God to that short list. All else is subject to change. Our family has seen a lot of change this year. My mother in law moved in due to my father in law’s passing. Now my only son is moving out and beginning a new life as a husband as his wedding is only a week away at the time of this writing. Sadness and gladness share the same soul. We know that this also means that time has been busy. Our minds forget that time has not stood still, but our bodies react with a less than subtle reminder that time has indeed passed. The older I get the more I am aware that I am tremendously inadequate for the calling I have been given. Not that I am some significant political or even spiritual leader. But the calling is simply to lead my family, be a role model, and reflect the love of Jesus to all I come in contact with. I’m glad that my relationship with God and

my position in His eyes is not based on how well I grade myself. Thanks to the Savior that He has “earned” for me what I could never earn for myself. This CHRISTmas season I want to focus on the ONE who paid it all for me. I don’t want to focus on gifts, shopping, or decorations or carols. The one I want to see is Jesus because my faults and sins are hidden in Him. Change is difficult, but it is necessary if we are going to move the distractions out of the way, so that we can more clearly see the ONE we really need to see. Merry CHRISTmas!.

Innocent Blood Demands AccountabilityDavid Hobbs

Check OutThe

Ambassador Newspaper

on Facebook!QR Code

David HolycrossHelping families honor the lives of those they love since 1998

www.holycrossmemorial.comYuba City | (530) 751 - 7000 | License #FD1653

Is it a hard concept to grasp that God demands accountability for the blood of 55 million innocents slaughtered in their mothers’ wombs? In Deuteronomy 21, God gave instructions on what to do if a person was found murdered in the countryside. They were to measure the distance from the body to each of the surrounding towns to see which town was closest to the victim. Then the elders from that town had to come and make atonement for the shed blood. Though they knew nothing about it, they still had to take responsibility for it so God could cleanse the land from the shedding of the innocent blood. (“Bloodshed pollutes the land”—Num. 35:33) If the shedding of the blood from one life demanded such accountability, how can we think to escape accountability for the blood of 55 million innocent babies shed in this country since 1973? In the Deuteronomy case, the elders were instructed to wash their hands over the atoning sacrifice while saying “Our hands did not shed this blood, neither did our eyes see it done” (Deut. 21:7). How can our leaders plead such ignorance today? For the past 40 years we all know what’s been done. Our civic leaders certainly bear their share of the responsibility, but how much more our spiritual leaders (the pastors) who know how sacred and precious human life is in the sight of God. And only our pastors have the priestly standing before God to plead for the forgiveness and cleansing our nation needs. Will they step forward in this critical hour and attempt to stem the tsunami of judgment sweeping toward

us for such horrendous evil done on our watch, or will they stand back and hope the church can somehow escape the judgment (via the rapture?)? 2 Chron 7:14 requires just such accountability before God—“humble yourselves and pray… turn from your wicked ways….” One of our wickedest ways is our steadfast refusal to admit we have any complicity in the killing. One survey found that 70% of the women going into an abortion clinic for an abortion claimed to be Christian. Yet rarely will pastors preach against abortion, though many are quick to say they are “personally against it,” as though that settled the question. If a woman was being assaulted on the street outside your home and you did nothing to stop it, even went to a back room so you wouldn’t hear her screams, and then later told the police that you “were personally against assault, rape and murder”…. How would that fly? It’s time for the church to “man up” and come clean before God while there is still time. And our pastors need to lead us in this. I am no theologian, but I can’t imagine a holy God rapturing a church with the blood of 55 million babies on its hands. Is there anyone out there who can claim like the elders in Deut. 21, “I am innocent in the shedding of this blood. I did all in my power to stop it: I preached tirelessly against it, led my congregation in fervent prayer and picketing, went to jail trying to shut the clinics down; I bear no responsibility for this atrocity?” If so, let him/her come forward and pray for the rest of us. If not, pastors, please step forward and lead us in repentance.

VIEWPOINT


The Ambassador


19

MONROE TRANSMISSIONDon Monroe

1397 Colusa Hwy Yuba City

530-751-2238

PROFORMA BY KUGDave Kugelman

Promotional Productswww.proforma.com/kug

530-632-9292

HILBERS INC.CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

1210 Stabler Lane, Yuba Citywww.hilbersinc.com

530-673-2947

DAVE GREENETZCONSTRUCTION INC.

www.greenetzconstruction.comREMODELING

682.9602 - lic.# 452975

eXfuze Seven+botanical supplements: acai, fucoidan, goji, seabuckthorn, noni, gac, mangosteen

Robert E. Stark674-0345, [email protected]

JENINE L. TANABEMD DERMATOLOGY

414 G Street, Suite 204 Marysville743-0301

Yuba City Pest ControlP.O. Box 2, Yuba City, CA 95992

Ph. (530) 755-2555Fx. (530) 755-4672

"Quality Service Guaranteed"

A BETTER YARD CARE“We can help free up your weekends!”

530-673-3722General Yard Care & Maintenance

Cassandra Hoon

Richard’s Tree Service530-673-7993Certified Arborist

www.richardstree.comLic. 608859

Excellent Massage Care“A Touch Like No Other"

Brenda Banducci530-701-4847

397 Del Norte Ave, YC

Promote Your Business Here!

HOME MAINTENANCE

SHUTTER-UPWindow Coverings

(530)755-3474Blinds * Shutters * Shades

Lic. #890713

or email: [email protected]

Call(530) 933-1385

EVERGREEN TUFF TURFLush, Synthetic GrassesSee our 2,000 sq ft Display at

735 Clark Ave, Yuba City.Then call us at 751-8466

PETS

Country Vet Clinic, Inc4839 E. Butte Rd, Live Oak

"Treating all creaturesGreat and Small"

Jerry Long, DVM & Assoc.

Tim's Total Truck RepairMobile and emergency Service

Complete Diesel Repair and Welding 25yrs expASE cert. Master Tech.

(530) 870-7217

LANDSCAPING

HEALTH BEAUTY

ImpactThe

Community

PHOTOGRAPHY / HOBBIES

Jennifer Jens Photography20% off print purchase*

*one time use

jenniferjensphotography.com530.632.8909

All SeasonsTree and Turf Care, Inc." Your Landscape and Tree Doctor"

www.allseasons.ms(530) 755 - 1304

Son Light GlassLeaded, Stained, Mosaic and used

Glass Custom Designs & Classes530-755-6602

980 Gray Ave, YC (next to Brock's)

DANIEL JONESPROPERTY CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Bus./Home/Indust. Maint.*Lawn Care *Preventive Maintenance

*Installs *Repairs“Gladly serving to keep your investment solid”

DAN JONES [email protected]

LANDSCAPING

RETAIL

Stretch-A-Buck!Dollar Discount Store451 Queens Ave, YC

530-674-2275"Get MORE for your BUCK!"

Furry Family Care & Training Services

www.furryfamilycareandtraining.comfurryfamilycareandtraining@yahoo.com

530-844-2824Health Grooming-In Home Pet

Sitting-Dog/Puppy Training-Rehab

"MarketPlace ads

should not be considered as an

endorsement of The Ambassador as to the

spiritual commitment of the advertiser.

The Ambassador does not and cannot

"monitor" spiritual commtiment of its

advertisers."

PHOTOGRAPHY / HOBBIES

MARKETPLACE

20

If you are not eligible for Health Insurance through an employer sponsored plan or Medi-Cal, please contact us during Open

Enrollment October 1st, 2013 – March 31st, 2014

1512 Starr Dr. Suite C Yuba City CA, 95993

530.751.1212 www.ernstam.com

We are here all year to assist you with enrollment, claims & general services.

- Health Care Reform, Affordable Care Act, Obamacare –

Why Use an Agent?

• Over 30 years of

experience in the Health Insurance business.

• There is NO CHARGE for

our services. It cost the SAME

to enroll with a Licensed Agent as it does with any other enrollers.

• No standing in line, we

take Appointments and Walk-ins!

• We will be here to help even after enrollment.

How to Enroll with an Agent?

• Call us and set up an

appointment with an Agent.

• Walk in our office and

one of our five agents can assist you.

• Contact us through our website at www.ernstam.com

• E-mail any of us:

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

SERVING

Above: Kurt & Mary Hilbers and Jordan (Hilbers) Daddow at 5k Run to benefit Hands of Hope

Below: David Holycross & Machalea Krizek at the 2nd annual Donation Station at Holycross Memorial

If you "caught" someone living out the Gospel by blessing others please email a high-resolution photo to editor@

ambassadornewspaper.com. (please, just get their consent!)

CAUGHT

dec 2013 ambassador newspaper

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