Faith & frıends Inspiration for Living August 2008 www.faithandfriends.ca Kevin Costner’s Swing Vote Saved From Schizophrenia Mark Teixeira First Baseman Leads by Example 101 Ways to Pray
On Your Mark … This month, the focus of the world is on the Olympic Games being held in Beijing. Thousands of athletes from hundreds of countries are going for the gold, silver and bronze. Records will shatter and spectacular sporting deeds will become part of Olympic legend. Going for the gold is all well and good, but even the most sought-after trophies eventually tarnish and gather dust. God’s love, however, is fresh and forever. When you stumble out of the starting gate, knowing God is there will keep you in the running. If you want to fnd out about God’s promises, mail the coupon on page 27, visit our website (www.faithandfriends.ca), contact us at The Salvation Army Editorial Department, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4 or visit your nearest Salvation Army church. “My only aim is to fnish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” —The Apostle Paul (Acts 20:24)
August 2008 Volume 11 Number 8 page 24 Power Outage 12 Was Liz Curtis Higgs being punished for putting work before family? One-Man Show 24 John Wason’s spirited stage performances bring the Bible to life with passion and purpose Drawing Strength 30 Dennis Hewitt turned his life around, thanks to The Salvation Army, pastels and paint First Things First 20 Mark Teixeira’s faith makes him solid, whether running the bases or safe at home features page 30 page 12 August 2008 Faith & friends | 3
Seeing Things I t fnally happened last month. At frst, I ignored it in the hopes that it would go away, but the symptoms became acute with the passing of time. It got to the point where the problem was seriously affecting my quality of life. I needed bifocals. Progressives, I think they call them now. I’ve needed glasses since I was fve years old, so this must sound like a trivial complaint, but bifocals for me were what the old folks wore, hanging from chains around their necks. Parents had them, teachers had them, old people had them! I tried to convince myself that I could get along without them, but holding the newspaper at arm’s length so that I could read it became a bit of a chore. Ditto for trying to follow directions while driving my car. Not recommended. I fnally raised the white fag and went to the ophthalmologist, who ftted me with a comfortable pair of specs. I don’t know why I waited so long. (Well, I do know: I’m stubborn.) I can see clearly now, clearer than I’ve seen in years. In this month’s copy of Faith & Friends, you’ll read about people who had their own vision problems. Born and raised in communist Mongolia, Tserendavaa “Tseegii” Otgonbayar was blind to God until her teacher opened her eyes to the good news. Skeptical at frst, Tseegii soon embraced her newly discovered faith and has been a Christian for 15 years. Dennis Hewitt had trouble seeing past his addiction, but a unique Salvation Army program made him view his life in a different light. And Darren Buffet’s vision was clouded by the madness of schizophrenia that no medication could alleviate, until his doctors tried one last-ditch solution. So take a good look at our magazine. It’s easy on the eyes. —Ken Ramstead, associate editor Mission State ment To show Christ at work in the lives of real people, and to provide spiritual resources for those who are new to the Christian faith. Faith &friends is published monthly by The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario M4H 1P4 International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London England EC4P 4EP William and Catherine Booth Founders Shaw Clifton General Commissioner William W. Francis territorial commander Major Jim Champ editor-in-chief Geoff Moulton managing editor Ken Ramstead associate editor Timothy Cheng art director Brandon Laird graphic designer Major Ken Smith copy editor Pamela Richardson production and distribution co-ordinator Carol Lowes marketing representative Scripture Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are taken from Today’s New International Version Phone (416) 422-6226 Fax (416) 422-6120 Websites www.faithandfriends.ca salvationarmy.ca or salvationist.ca E-mail [email protected] Subscription for one year, including shipping and handling: Canada $17; U.S. $22; foreign $24 Phone (416) 422-6112 [email protected] All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada & Bermuda and cannot be reproduced without permission. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40064794 4 | Faith & friends August 2008
Words To Live By Into Thin Air 6 Having faith is like taking a step into the unknown, certain that God is there waiting for us Between The Lines Haven’t Got a Prayer? Read This Book 8 Say a Little Prayer offers 101 imaginative ways to talk to God God In My Life Shock Treatment 9 Darren Buffett’s world collapsed into schizophrenia. Nothing the doctors had prescribed helped. But there remained one last hope Someone Cares Hospitality Guaranteed 14 For those confned to their homes, Meals on Wheels delivers more than just hot food Faith Builders Under Pressure 16 In Swing Vote, coming to theatres this month, the outcome of the U.S. presidential election hinges on Kevin Costner Beyond Borders Found In Translation 18 Living in Mongolia, Tseegii had never heard of Jesus. Who was He? Lite Stuff Recipes, Wordsearch, Quick Quiz, Sudoku 28 departments August 2008 Faith & friends | 5
Words To Live By Before I moved to Toronto, my friend Doug and I would travel there every year to visit our friends Mike and Dave, who hosted us Montreal tourists. One particular August, Dave brought us to the CN Tower. One of the tallest free-standing structures in the world, it looms majestically over the city skyline. Hippo-Proof Glass We headed to the observation deck, where we took in the wonderful view. It was only later that I noticed what looked like a hole in the foor of the tower. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was the CN Tower’s famous glass foor. Located at a height of 342 metres (1,122 feet), the glass floor is 23.8 square metres (256 square feet) and consists of 20 panels of composite glass 6.35 centimetres (2½ inches) thick. Each piece consists of fve types of glass of varying thickness, which have been tempered, petrified for hardness and laminated together. The glass floor has the strength to hold 38,556 kilograms (85,000 pounds) or 14 hippos. Despite that reassuring information, I stood a respectful distance away. I weigh “only” 200 pounds so it seemed eminently safe, but why take chances? Paralyzing Fear But then Dave challenged us with a taunting grin to stand on the floor itself. Always the brave one, he marched up and stood right on it, even jumping up and down, until an eight-year-old asked him to stop acting like a baby. Never one to back down, Doug slowly and steadily advanced to the Having faith is a lot like stepping … Into Thin Air by Ken Ramstead 6 | Faith & friends August 2008
foor to join Dave, a look of triumph on his face. That left Mike and me. Neither of us made any attempt to replicate Dave and Doug’s feat. “This is silly,” Mike reasoned to me. “We know it’s safe. There’s no reason why we can’t stand there, too.” Yet we stood stock-still, paralyzed with fear. A Long Way Down Eventually, Mike and I inched our way to the edge of the foor. I would have been content to stop there but Mike took matters into his own hands. He strode onto the glass, dragging me with him. There I was, standing in the middle of what seemed like empty air. The logical part of my brain was trying to calm my panicked mind. Slowly, by degrees, I forced myself to calm down and pry my eyelids open. When I did, I had a clear view all the way to the bottom. That wasn’t so bad. I realized I wasn’t going to die after all. I had survived the glass foor. Stepping Into Faith C.S. Lewis described his struggle with faith in his book Mere Christianity: “It is not reason that is taking away my faith: on the contrary, my faith is based on reason. The battle is between faith and reason on one side and emotion and imagination on the other.” Faith and reason convinced me to stay on those glass blocks; emotion and imagination yelled at me to get off. Though all my senses argued to the contrary, I had to have faith that the floor would support my weight even though I could not see it. And it did. The writer of the biblical Book of Hebrews noted, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith means taking that step into the unknown, certain that God is there, waiting for us. Without faith, we are like children hovering around a glass floor, afraid to move. With faith, as Christians believing in the redemptive power of Jesus, we can joyfully step into God’s protective embrace, secure that we will not fall or falter. August 2008 Faith & friends | 7
I have difficulty praying. I have nothing against talking to God, mind you. I just don’t know how to pray, when to pray or what to pray for. Should I pray at the same time every day? Should I pray on my knees? Should I recite traditional prayers or wing it as I go along? I’m so confused! It turns out I’m not alone. “As an adult,” writes Joanne Redmond, author of Say a Little Prayer: 101 Everyday Ways to Pray, “I felt guilty for not being able to concentrate while praying. I knew I was supposed to pray more, and not just at church. But I found it to be very boring.” Redmond tackled the problem with creativity and imagination and now shares her solutions in this handy little book. “Prayer does not need to be monotonous,” she writes. “It can be the most dynamic, exciting aspect of life; after all, we have the privilege of communicating with the Author and Creator of the entire universe. And better yet, He wants to hear from us!” Say a Little Prayer serves up dozens of ways to make prayer a more productive experience. There are many ways to talk to God, and all of them work. You just have to pick the method that is right for you. Between The Lines Haven’t Got a Prayer? Read This Book Are you intimidated by traditional prayer, having trouble concentrating or unsure how to begin? Say a Little Prayer offers 101 imaginative ways to talk to God by Barbara Ashley #1 While brushing your teeth in the morning, pray for three things you need help with during the day. #9 When faced with a delay—whether it be a long line, postponed appointment, missed bus, late test result—ask for patience. #25 Talk to God aloud while driving alone in the car. Try telling Him how your day is going. #31 Talk to God while loading your dishwasher or drying your dishes. #48 There are no coincidences in your life. Thank God for those small miracles He surprises you with each and every day. #62 When riding in an elevator, ask to be forgiven for an unkind act you did that day. #72 Pray with someone. You can do this in person or on the phone. #78 Ask God to help you be more patient when your computer crashes and you have to reboot it. #79 Remember, when praying, no topic is “off limits.” God already knows everything that is happening in your heart, so you can talk to Him about anything. Say These Little Prayers: A Sampling From the Book 8 | Faith & friends August 2008
God In My Life Darren and Diane Buffett had it all. Teenage sweethearts married for 11 years, they were the proud parents of two boys, Matthew and Jonathan. Darren was a foreman at a sawmill in Glenwood, N.L., and the family was well-known in the community. Shock Treatment Darren Buffett’s world collapsed into schizophrenia. Nothing the doctors had prescribed helped. But there remained one last hope by Lorraine and Clay Davis But in October 1997, “my world was snatched away from me,” Darren says. “Life as I knew it didn’t exist anymore.” “Everything Changes” That month, life skittered out of control. “All of a sudden, everyday things started to bother me,” recalls Darren. August 2008 Faith & friends | 9
“I spent a lot of time worrying, crying, unable to control my thoughts. I wasn’t the happy person I used to be.” Their family doctor prescribed mild antidepressants but Darren’s condition only got worse. The initial diagnosis of clinical depression rapidly turned into bipolar disorder and then full-blown schizophenia. Of that time, Darren has only a vague recollection. “I spent a year in bed, only getting up to eat.” Depression, bipolar disorder and schizophenia are chemical imbalances of the brain. “Your whole personality changes,” continues Darren. “The way you look at life, the way you look at people, everything changes.” Anger, violence and suicide dominated his thoughts. “I could look at Darren and tell when the voices were talking to him,” says Diane. It got so bad that she started hiding the kitchen knives at night. “That was probably the most terrifying part of the whole illness,” says Darren now. “I had lost the man I fell in love with,” Diane says simply. The one solace for Darren and Diane during these dark times was their faith in God. The Buffets had always been a religious family and Diane had been a member of The Salvation Army since 1996. Darren clung to the promises of the Bible’s Psalm 139: “I’m never out of Your sight. You know everything I’m going to say before I start the first sentence” (Psalm 139:3-4 The Message). “That psalm forced me to realize that there was no easy way out,” explains Darren. “Even if I took my own life, or the lives of my family, I’d still have to confront God in the hereafter. And what would I tell Him, what could I tell Him? It was a loselose proposition.” The 20th Attempt One year into the diagnosis, the Buffetts lost everything. Darren had to leave his job, the family lost their house as a result and they had to move from their community to Embree. “Our life consisted of shuttling between doctor’s appointments and home,” says Diane. It came to the point where there were no other medications Darren could take. Nothing had alleviated his distress. The doctors reluctantly informed the Buffetts that if there was no improvement, Darren would have to be institutionalized. That was when the doctors suggested another round of ECT: shock treatments. Diane and Darren asked the doctors why that would work this time when 28 treatments in the past had not, but they grudgingly agreed to a course of 18. But even the shock treatments did not seem to work, and they were taking a toll on Darren. “You would ask him one day how he was doing but 10 | Faith & friends August 2008
the next day he couldn’t remember,” says Diane. Eighteen treatments went by, with no improvement. Then, for some reason, Darren’s doctor suggested they try two fnal treatments. Darren and Diane agreed. “After the 19th one, I felt no different,” says Darren. But when he awoke from the 20th attempt, he felt with a certainty that something had changed. “It was like someone had thrown the light switch back on. I knew I was going to make it,” says Darren. Months afterward, he found out that on the night of his 20th treatment, 14-year-old Matthew had spent the entire night on his knees in his bedroom praying for his dad, praying that this last-ditch attempt would work. Never Give Up Much later, the Buffetts became aware that they had been the focus of prayer throughout Darren’s long illness. Besides their Salvation Army friends, complete strangers would come up to Diane and tell her that they were praying for them. “Even today,” continues Diane, “people still approach me to say how glad they are to see we’re doing fine and to let me know that they never doubted. We were prayed through this.” “Knowing what I know now, I realize that God was looking after me and my family at that time,” says Darren. Darren returned to work in 2006. “I opened the drawer of my toolbox, took out the blueprints and picked up as if I had just taken the weekend off. No one would have suspected where I had come from to get there.” The Buffetts have since moved to Alberta where they are active in their church and are surrounded by friends, and Darren now works on one of the world’s largest constuction sites as a mechanical specialist. “Life is good,” he says. “God is good. “We are a stronger family because of it,” claims Darren. But, he adds with a smile, “My kids tell me that I still need medication!” On a more serious note, this ordeal taught the Buffetts how the mentally ill are still stigmatized by many people. “Would you give up on someone who has cancer?” asks Diane. “No. So why would you push somebody aside because they have a mental illness? You can’t give up on them.” Anger, violence and suicide dominated his thoughts. “I could look at Darren and tell when the voices were talking to him,” says Diane Darren and Diane with Jonathan and Matthew August 2008 Faith & friends | 11
I t was a dark and stormy night. Alone in my study, I typed away on my laptop computer while the air conditioner hummed in the background, holding the early July heat at bay. A glance at the clock confrmed the late hour: 10:49, with many pages yet to write. After several extensions on my book deadline, the pressure was intense—like having fve college term papers due at once. I’d circled July 22 on my calendar, the day my family and I would be heading to Pennsylvania for a reunion my sister had planned for two years. Even if it meant writing around the clock, I had to fnish the manuscript before we left town. All at once, a deafening crack of thunder sounded overhead, and the lights blinked out. Oh, great. After saving my work on the laptop’s hard drive, I located a candle and made the most of my waning battery, reminding myself this was only a temporary setback. Our power returned the next afternoon, but not for long. A second storm left our old farmhouse in the dark—this time, for two long days. My editor called to check on my progress. “Not good,” I confessed. “We’ve lost power … again.” Though my laptop was portable, my many reference books were not, which ruled out moving to a hotel room or a friend’s kitchen table. Besides, the lights would come back on any minute—wouldn’t they? Please, Lord. When the electricity finally returned, I brushed away tears of relief and fred up my computer. One week later, a third storm struck. The blackout was so massive, our city made the national news. Five Power Outage I closed my eyes, afraid of the truth. Was I being punished for putting work before family? by Liz Curtis Higgs
powerless days dragged by. Meals were fast food, showers were cold and tempers were short. Once my husband, Bill, tracked down an overpriced generator, I had electricity flowing into my laptop. But what I didn’t have fowing were words or ideas, as the stress mounted. Help, Lord! When July 22 dawned, I still had two dozen chapters to go. Genuine panic set in. My siblings and I hadn’t gathered in one place for nearly a decade. How could I miss my family reunion? Yet how could I go, when my publishing contract required a completed manuscript—now, if not sooner? I didn’t dare phone my editor and ask for more time. Heartsick, I called my sister instead and begged for mercy. “We know you’d be there if you could, Liz. Just keep writing.” Guilt washed over me as I helped my family pack. Bill promised he would hug all my relatives, especially my understanding sister, but I still felt awful. With a heavy heart I watched our family car disappear down the driveway, then returned to my desk, determined to write non-stop. I’d paid a terrible price for this time; I wasn’t about to waste it. My fingers flew over the keys. By nightfall, I’d almost completed another chapter when the unthinkable happened: the lights blinked out. “Nooo!” I shrieked, fumbling for my cellphone. With trembling hands, I called the utility company, only to hear, “Could be an hour, ma’am. Could be tomorrow. Sorry.” Sorry. I sank across my desk, tears flowing in earnest. I was the sorry one. Sorry I hadn’t worked harder last spring. Sorry I’d sent my family off without me. Sorry I’d put work frst—again. I closed my eyes, afraid of the truth. Are You punishing me, Lord? Though I knew better—blackouts from summer thunderstorms were business as usual in Kentucky—I still felt the weight of regret. Forgive me, Lord. Please, forgive me. In the silence of my study, I was unprepared for the sudden whir of the air conditioner. My eyes few open in time to watch the lights come back on. Not tomorrow. Not even an hour. I could credit the utility company for prompt service. Or I could thank God for giving me a chance to learn from my mistakes and press on … power restored. This article frst appeared in the July/August 2005 issue of Today’s Christian Woman Liz Curtis Higgs is an inspirational speaker and the author of 26 books, including her best-selling Bad Girls of the Bible series (WaterBrook Press). Visit her online at www.LizCurtisHiggs.com I was the sorry one. Sorry I hadn’t worked harder last spring. Sorry I’d sent my family off without me. Sorry I’d put work frst—again August 2008 Faith & friends | 13
Zerma and Thomas Alton celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary recently with a wonderful supper, but they didn’t have to shop for groceries or even worry about preparing it. The couple, now in their 90s, continue to enjoy dining together daily because of the partnership between Meals on Wheels and The Salvation Army in Trail, B.C. Last year, the Altons contacted The Salvation Army when Thomas fell ill and Zerma needed support. Now, every week, volunteer Terry Jesudason drops off hot meals to cover their weekday needs (the couple dines out on weekends). “Because of this service, we’re able to continue living in our home, for which we are sincerely grateful,” says Zerma. “It’s important to us that we stay together. I don’t know what we would do without The Salvation Army and Meals on Wheels.” Labour of Love The Alton household is one of approximately 36 houses that Meals on Wheels serves through the Dinners at Home Someone Cares Hospitality Guaranteed For those confned to their homes, Meals on Wheels delivers more than just hot food by Carol Lowes Meals on Wheels co-ordinator Mary Anne Leschiutta, chef Mark Taylor, dietary aidea Pietrina Colussi and volunteer Dick McMillan 14 | Faith & friends August 2008
program. Since 2006, volunteers have delivered more than 13,500 meals. The dinners, which cost roughly $6 each, arrive in microwave-safe containers and are either frozen or hot, depending on the client’s preference. Some cases may contain up to 16 individual servings with plenty of variety. When Mary Anne Leschiutta is not co-ordinating orders, she spends the remainder of her work week helping families through The Salvation Army’s local family services office. “The majority of my interactions with clients are by phone as they arrange for their meals to be dropped off,” explains Mary Anne. “I see this as a ministry, one I approach with the Bible verses Colossians 3:23-24 in mind: ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.’ ” Most of the people for whom she arranges meal delivery are seniors with mobility concerns and people recovering from hospital stays or with medical problems. “The Meals on Wheels visits are the highlight of their days,” she says. Confned to their homes through illness or misfortune, they look forward to that human interaction. Reaching Out The interaction isn’t all one-way. “I’ve often been touched by the chats I’ve had with the people to whom I deliver meals,” says Terry, a member of The Salvation Army’s church in Trail. A volunteer with the program, she donates both her time and transportation costs, and occasionally has the opportunity to discuss God with the people she meets. In the fnal months of his life, local resident Sam Martin invited Terry into his home to talk. “His wife had passed away and he and I had lovely conversations,” recalls Terry. He and his wife had spent years organizing dances for seniors. They were once fne ballroom dancers themselves. “They did so much to serve the community,” she continues. “Sam loved life and people, and I tried to cheer him up. I make sure everyone I deliver to is doing well.” Salvation Army pastors Captains Michael and Violet Hayes believe the Meals on Wheels program is a worthwhile extension of their church. “Meals on Wheels helps those shut-ins who can’t attend services, but it’s also a way to reach marginalized people in the community,” concludes Violet. “We want to help people who can’t help themselves.” “I don’t know what we would do without The Salvation Army and Meals on Wheels” August 2008 Faith & friends | 15
What if you could change the world? Bud Johnson (Kevin Costner) is a lovable loser, content with coasting through a world that’s passed him by. The one bright spot in his life is his precocious, overachieving 12-year-old daughter, Molly (Madeline Carroll). Her easygoing dad would rather go fshing than fnd a job, so Molly has taken it upon herself to take care of both of them. She even has to register him to vote in the upcoming election. “Well, that’s great,” he complains. “I could get jury duty now!” This is how matters stand until one mischievous moment on Election Day, when she accidentally sets off a chain of events that culminates in the U.S. presidential election coming down to one vote—her dad’s. Centre of Attention Suddenly, Bud becomes the centre of attention. His face graces the covers of newsmagazines around the world, reporters descend upon his trailer park and his small town is besieged by the media. Courted by the Democratic candidate and his Republican opponent (Dennis Hopper and Kelsey Grammer, respectively) while their respective campaign managers Under Pressure In Swing Vote, coming to theatres this month, the outcome of the U.S. presidential election hinges on Kevin Costner by Ken Ramstead Faith Builders Easygoing Bud (Kevin Costner) fnds himself under the glare of media scrutiny 16 | Faith & friends August 2008
Photos: ©Walt Disney Studios (Nathan Lane and Stanley Tucci) jockey for any advantage they can get, Bud revels in the unexpected celebrity. He schmoozes with the candidates and even organizes a football game with their Secret Service details! But Bud soon realizes that this particular game is being played for higher stakes than a keg of beer. The entire world is hanging on his vote. As the media attention and political frenzy mount, Bud is deluged by letters from concerned Americans across the country. As he wrestles with his decision, Bud is forced to do some soul-searching to fnd out just what kind of citizen, man and father he is. Changing the World Swing Vote is a comical look at the U.S. election process, but it’s not that far-fetched. As was seen in the last U.S. presidential election, every vote does indeed count. Here in Canada, your vote has power as well, but you have to choose to wield it. Voter turnout has consistently been on the downturn over the last couple of decades. Whether that indicates voter apathy, disinterest or disillusionment can be debated by the political-science pundits, but what cannot be doubted is that Election Day is your chance to tell the political establishment what makes you tick. Short of running for office yourself—a highly honourable choice—your vote is one of the most important duties you can render as a citizen—no ifs, ands or Buds. Swing Vote is a wry and sometimes poignant look at the journey of a father and daughter who discover that everybody has the power to change the world, no matter how humble they may be. You, too, can make a difference, but not by sitting on the sidelines. The choice belongs to you. What about you? How do you make a difference in the life of your family, church, city or country? Send an e-mail to [email protected]. Bud soon realizes that this particular game is being played for higher stakes than a keg of beer. The entire world is hanging on his vote Kevin Costner and Madeline Carroll
As a translator for Samaritan’s Purse, an international Christian organization that helps people in need, I’m adept at using my cellphone, computer laptop and the Internet in the course of my duties. But I’m a country girl at heart, more at home herding yaks then hailing cabs! I was born in Mongolia and my home was a yurt, a traditional shelter tent made of wood and felt. My parents were also born in a yurt like their parents before them. Growing up, I herded yaks, gathered firewood and enjoyed life without telephones, television or electricity. When I was fve, my parents moved to town. My father took a job as a truck driver and my mother became a cook. It was a totally different way of life for us, but we adapted remarkably well. My dream was to become a teacher specializing in Mongolian language and literature. I’m No Sinner! In 1993, our Grade 8 teacher, whose daughter had married a Christian, mentioned she had interesting news about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. “Who?” we asked. Until 1990, Mongolia had been communist and atheist. It sounded like some children’s story, but we were intrigued enough to ask if she could bring her son-in-law to class to explain who this Jesus was. All 50 students met the next day, flling the classroom. We closed the door and locked it. Had we been caught, we would have been in serious trouble. “OK,” we said to the man. “Tell us this story.” For three hours, he held us spellbound as he talked about God, about how He loved us. We asked him question after question. For myself, I was somewhat insulted when he told us we were sinners. I’m not a sinner! I thought indignantly. Beyond Borders Found in Translation In Mongolia, we had never heard of Jesus. Who was He? by Tserendavaa Otgonbayar 18 | Faith & friends August 2008
I don’t steal. I study hard. I’m a good girl! Answered Prayer Three months passed. I forgot all about God as the upcoming high-school exams preoccupied me. I was a straight A student but I was nervous. We had to randomly draw one multiple-choice question from among dozens. Our academic fate hung in the balance. As I waited, a classmate approached. She’d become a Christian after hearing that classroom talk. “Tseegii,” she asked, calling me by my nickname. “Would you like to pray before the exam?” I hesitated, but relented. “I don’t know how to pray,” I told her. “Do what I do,” she instructed. I closed my eyes and clasped my hands. Dear Jesus, I began, if You are real, let me pick question six. At that moment, a student left the exam room. “What number did you pick?” I asked. “Six.” It didn’t work! I thought in dismay. But when my turn came, I drew number six! It was impossible, yet it happened. The rest of the exam, which I passed, was a blur. All I could think about was God, that He was real. He listened to my prayer. Strength and Hope That August, a mission group came to town. I attended their first meeting, even though it was illegal. The group preached and conducted Bible study sessions for two weeks. We met clandestinely, like the early Christians. Though I believed, I only now understood the meaning of salvation. Within weeks, our group grew to 30 and we elected a leader. My name was chosen. “I can’t do this!” I protested. “You can’t,” they replied, “but God will work through you.” I still fnd it hard to believe. I was leading 60-year-old grandmothers and 25-year-olds in prayer—me, a 16-yearold student! After graduating from university, I started teaching, but something compelled me to give up the city life and go to teach in the countryside. Everyone thought I was crazy but my parents were supportive. They had seen the change in me since I started attending church. I wasn’t vain or angry any longer, I was happy. After two wonderful years, I returned home. Just as with my move to the countryside, I left a job without a guarantee of one to take its place, but God provided for my needs. I worked as a sponsorship co-ordinator for World Vision International Mongolia and now I’m a translator for Samaritan’s Purse. I’ve learned so many things and I’m proud of the person I have become. For 15 years, I’ve tried to follow God. When I look back at what I’ve done, I know I couldn’t have done it alone. God gives me strength, and He gives me hope. Mongolia: Past & Present 1992 3 churches About 400 Christians 2006 About 400 churches More than 40,000 Christians August 2008 Faith & friends | 19
“ The best thing a bout base ball is hitting that home run,” admits Atlanta Braves frst baseman Mark Teixeira. “I don’t think there’s any better feeling in sports than jogging those bases afterward.” He should know. In his Braves debut on August 1, 2007, Mark hit a three-run homer and drove in four runs in a 12-3 win over the Houston Astros. And the 28-year-old fnished 2007 with his fourth straight 30-homer, 100-RBI season. First Things First Mark Teixeira’s faith makes him solid, whether running the bases or safe at home by Jayne Thurber-Smith “Teixeira has not yet hit his prime, but he already ranks among the pre - mier power hitters in baseball,” stated Gerry Fraley in the Sporting News . Not only is Mark a power hitter, he’s also an outstanding switch-hitter. But unlike most switch-hitters, who bat left-handed the majority of the time, Mark actually hits better from the right side. “I was a good right-handed bat - ter, but my dad wanted to challenge me,” he explains. “At his suggestion, I took up left-handed hitting. It’s the best thing I ever did for my game.” That was just one of the many things Mark learned from his father, John. “If it wasn’t for Dad, I wouldn’t be where I am now,” says Mark. “He taught me everything I know about sports and about life.” John, along with his wife, Margy, also helped their son realize there are more important things in life than base - ball. “They showed me how important faith is,” Mark says. “My parents were the most infuential people in my life Photos: Paul Abell 20 | Faith & friends August 2008
Mark won the Gold Glove award in 2005 and 2006 August 2008 Faith & friends | 21
when I was a kid, and they taught me the right values.” Focus and Faith Knowing what to value is important when you’re on the roller-coaster ride that is the world of baseball. Mark is up for free agency at the end of this year and there is much speculation about where he’ll end up and for what amount of money. “I don’t worry about those things,” he confesses. “If I worry about contract negotiations, it’s going to take away from the team. I’m out there to play. The contract will take care of itself.” Mark learned not to sweat about contracts years ago when, after graduating from high school in 1999, negotiations with the Boston Red Sox fell through. Instead of turning professional, he found himself playing college baseball for Georgia Tech. “I realize now I wasn’t ready for pro ball,” he says. “I wanted to get an education and enjoy being a kid. Those were the best years of my life, getting my schooling and playing baseball.” Mark also met the love of his life, Georgia Leigh Williams, at the end of his freshman year. “As soon as I met her, I knew I wasn’t going to let her go,” he says. He became the talk of college baseball and was a near-unanimous selection for National Player of the Year in 2000. He ended his college career with a .400 lifetime batting average and was signed by the Texas Rangers, making the team roster after spring training in 2003. He had a very successful four years in Texas, winning the Silver Slugger Award in 2004 and 2005; the Gold Glove, the defensive equivalent, in 2005 and 2006; and playing in the 2005 All-Star game. Last year, Atlanta acquired Mark from Texas just before the trade deadline, and he had no trouble adjusting to new surroundings. “Joining the Braves organization was an easy transition,” he refects. “I already knew a lot of the players going in.” Last December, Mark underwent surgery to remove cartilage from his right knee. Just as he dealt with baseball contracts, he’s also learned to handle the insecurities of an injury and what it might mean to his career. “Injuries are a part of the game,” he refects. “I’ve been on the disabled list twice in my career. You have to have the right outlook. Everything happens for a reason and you have to have faith that you’ll get better.” Switch hitting was “the best thing I ever did for my game,” says Mark 22 | Faith & friends August 2008
Mark’s determined focus on rehabilitation paid off. He was fully recovered in time for spring training, and his 2008 season has been very strong. Family Man Mark’s personal life has also been solid. He and Leigh married in 2002, and together they established the Mark Teixeira Charitable Fund, which supports 12 $5,000 scholarships at three high schools in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, where they still live in the offseason. He also supports the Cook Children’s Medical Center and the Arlington Boys and Girls Club. “A big part of my foundation is giving opportunities for kids to get into college who otherwise might not be able to,” he says. “Some of them write to thank me and keep me updated. It’s exciting to hear that they’re living their dreams.” As he lives out his dream, Mark says the hardest thing about baseball is developing the ability to accept failure. “As a batter, you fail seven out of 10 times,” he states. “You need to move on and work harder.” God has blessed Mark and Leigh with a son, Jack Gordan, and a daughter, Addison Leigh. “As soon as I get home from being on the road, I go straight to my kids,” Mark says. “There’s nothing like seeing them smile at me, nothing like giving them a hug and a kiss.” Being There Not only is Mark carrying on the Teixeira tradition of being a good dad but he also follows in his father’s steps of living out and sharing his faith. “My faith is my cornerstone,” Mark says. “I try to lead by example, and let people know that I believe the Christian way is the best way. As long as I continue to remember what’s important, the distractions of the world don’t come into the equation.” He notes that celebrities aren’t the only ones at risk for potential pitfalls. “Every day, you walk down the street and you see things you shouldn’t,” he says. “Or you watch a movie or television show and questionable things come on. It’s a matter of trying to focus on the good things, trying to block out what’s not good and always relying on your faith.” The Bible verse Mark shares with everyone is John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” “This is the basis of our faith,” he says. “If anyone asks us why we’re here and what Jesus did for us it’s all right in that one verse. Jesus loves us and, no matter what happens, He’s there for us.” “As long as I continue to remember what’s important, the distractions of the world don’t come into the equation” August 2008 Faith & friends | 23
As the theatre lights dim and silence descends on the audience, a man dressed as an absent-minded professor scurries to the centre of the stage. “Sorry I’m late. Have you seen Colin?” he says breathlessly. “I was supposed to meet my assistant in the parking lot before this morning’s lecture. Never mind, I’m sure he’ll show up.” Plunking his briefcase down, he adds: “Perhaps we can start this morning’s lecture with a multiple choice question. What famous person said, ‘I can do all things through Him who gives me strength?’ a) Was it George Bush? b) Could it have been Tiger Woods? c) Maybe Arnold Schwarzenegger? d) Your pastor? e) Was it the Apostle Paul? Yes! You’re right. Those were words Paul wrote in his letter to the church in Philippi.” Addressing the crowd, 43-year-old actor John Wason brings the Apostle Paul’s words to life. Performed in front of an audience at a Salvation One-Man Show John Wason’s spirited stage performances bring the Bible to life with passion and purpose by Carol Lowes 24 | Faith & friends August 2008
Army event in Smithers, B.C., the play helped raise money for renovations to the Army’s food bank, thrift store and community and family services offces. Storyteller “I try to make the Bible come alive in the characters I play,” says John, the creative force behind Word to Life Theatre Arts, a ministry of Youth With A Mission (YWAM). “I like to portray the Bible in creative ways. Sometimes this involves setting the stories in biblical times, for example, a period piece; sometimes the stories are modernized.” In his second one-act play of the evening, John presents the New Testament Book of James interwoven with the struggles and the victories that led the apostle to claim “a faith that works.” John has created a repertoire of four plays based on the books of Philippians, James, Psalms and Colossians as well as two plays based on the Christmas and Easter accounts. He researches the culture and history of the biblical periods and brings its writers and subjects alive with vibrant characterization. “I’m simply trying to tell a good story,” he says. “People often talk to me after a performance and tell me they have never heard Scripture spoken like that before.” Purpose and Passion Growing up in Barbados, John became interested in God after a friend invited him to a Christian youth group. “One Friday night, the speaker asked anyone who wanted to know more about God to come, talk and pray with one of the leaders,” he recounts. “I saw how friendly the other kids were and I wanted to be a part of that.” It was the beginning of a lifelong journey of discovery and relationship with God. When John was 13, his family immigrated to Canada, settling in Ottawa. John studied drama in high school and was involved with creative projects at John portraying the Apostle James; (preceding page) John plays a chief magistrate reading a letter from the Apostle Paul August 2008 Faith & friends | 25
his church, but he never considered drama as a career. After graduating from high school, he studied accounting and business administration at Ottawa’s Algonquin College, and his faith and prayer life continued to grow. “In all this time, I hadn’t forgotten a YWAM performance I’d seen in high school,” says John. “Toymaker and Son was a 60-minute dramatic dance allegory of the Bible. Wow, I thought, I’d love to be involved in something original like that, done professionally and with meaning.” In 1989, John applied to YWAM and was accepted to attend the organization’s five-month Discipleship Training School. During this time, John met his future wife, Shelly. They married in 1990. In 1992, John and Shelly joined YWAM as part of the staff. John apprenticed for two years with YWAMer Danny Scott, a professional mime theatre artist from England, and he continues to train in mime, theatre and dance. Ministry trips have taken him around the world, including Panama, Australia, Kosovo, Mexico, the United States and Canada. In 2006, John, Shelly and their three children moved to Victoria to support his elderly parents, but he continues to serve with YWAM as an actor and teacher. Last year, John performed his plays over 70 times to a variety of audiences. Every year, he adds new shows to his repertoire. His most satisfying moments come when he sees that people are inspired and transformed by God’s Word. That is what happened last Easter as he performed at a women’s prison in Ontario. As John portrayed the thief on the cross who was forgiven by Jesus, tears trickled down the cheeks of some in the crowd. “This is what it’s all about,” says John. “Bringing God’s Word into people’s lives, with purpose and with passion.” John can be contacted at (250) 294-4080, [email protected] or through www.wordtolife.ca As John portrayed the thief on the cross who was forgiven by Jesus, tears trickled down the cheeks of some in the crowd John as “Mumbles,” a carefree and colourful homeless man 26 | Faith & friends August 2008
Subscribe to Faith & Friends today! Inside every issue: » inspiring true stories of hope and salvation » practical resources that will rejuvenate your spirit » uplifting articles that you can share with your friends I want to: ❏ accept Jesus Christ as personal Saviour and learn about being a Christian ❏ learn more about The Salvation Army ❏ connect with a local Salvation Army church ❏ receive information about Bible study material ❏ ask for prayers for me and for ________________________ ❏ tell you I am praying for your ministry ❏ SubscriBE to Faith & Friends at its annual price of $17 (includes GST) [U.S.A. $22; foreign $24] ❏ Send a Gift Subscription of Faith & Friends (attach a separate sheet with recipient’s name, address and phone number) Send a gift card ❏ yes ❏ no Please print Name Address Town/City Prov/State Postal/Zip Code Phone ( ) Payment: ❏ Cheque ❏ Money Order (Payable to Faith & Friends) ❏ Visa ❏ Mastercard Name on card Card # Expiry / Return this coupon to: Faith & Friends The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Boulevard Toronto, Ontario CANADA M4H 1P4 (416) 422-6112 [email protected] Dave always enjoyed a round of golf on Sunday while his wife attended church. This troubled his wife. One Sunday morning, she asked her minister, “Is it a sin for Dave to play golf on Sunday?” “No, no, no,” replied the minister. “The way that Dave plays, it’s actually a sin any day of the week!” ASunday school teacher began her lesson with a question: “Boys and girls, what do we know about God?” A hand shot into the air, “He’s an artist!” said the kindergarten boy. “Really? How do you know?” asked the teacher. “You know—Our Father, who does art in Heaven.” Laugh With Us August 2008 Faith & friends | 27
Recipes INGREDIENTS 21 g (0.75 oz) freshly shredded parmesan cheese 60 ml (¼ cup) reduced-fat mayonnaise 60 ml (¼ cup) water 30 ml (2 tbsp) lemon juice 2 cloves garlic, fnely chopped 2 ml (½ tsp) Worcestershire sauce 1 ml (¼ tsp) ground black pepper 0.5 ml (1⁄8 tsp) ground mustard 1,000 ml (8 cups) chopped romaine lettuce 4 slices (about 25 mm (1 in.) thick each) French bread, cut into 6 mm (¾ in.) cubes and toasted METHOD COMBINE cheese, mayonnaise, water, lemon juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, pepper and mustard in small bowl; mix until creamy. COMBINE lettuce and dressing in large serving bowl; toss well to coat. Sprinkle with toasted bread cubes. Serve immediately. Serves 4. Caesar Salad This classic is a quick-fx on a hot summer day. Add some leftover grilled chicken for a complete meal. INGREDIENTS 800 g (18 oz) three-cheese tortellini prepared according to package directions, chilled 60 ml (¼ cup) extra virgin olive oil 4 large garlic cloves, fnely chopped 60 ml (¼ cup) balsamic OR apple cider vinegar 2 medium tomatoes, chopped 500 ml (2 cups) broccoli forets 1 large green bell pepper, chopped 125 ml (½ cup) pitted and halved ripe olives 40 g (1.5 oz) freshly shredded parmesan cheese 20 g (0.75 oz) freshly shredded romano cheese METHOD HEAT oil in small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for one minute. Pour into large bowl; cool. Whisk in vinegar. ADD prepared pasta, tomatoes, broccoli, bell pepper, olives, parmesan cheese and romano cheese; toss well to coat. Refrigerate or serve immediately. Serves 8. Firecracker Pasta Salad The mix of vegetables and pasta makes this a great summer favourite. Lite Stuff 28 | Faith & friends August 2008
5 8 7 2 7 3 9 2 6 8 7 8 1 3 9 5 6 9 3 4 1 3 1 6 8 6 1 9 4 2 3 Sudoku Puzzle Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 × 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9 Wordsearch Olympic Spirit archery athletes badminton basketball boxing bronze ceremony cheers compete crowds decathlon discipline event fair play fencing fags goal gold high jump host hurdles IOC marathon medals records rowing shot-put silver stadium swimming tennis torch track and feld train volleyball weightlifting L F H H D U D S S F A J V A D T T N C P R G Z S D E C A T H L O N F R L L T T G A W L N L L A B T E K S A B R Y O A O D C I V Z J O V L B M C F P L R R R O E L A O G E A X N F K L S T C U M K R P G Z L I B G K A A A I U H P A W E I G H T L I F T I N G L P E O I C M C S K Z R E C O R D S V T E S S R O S T B B T F Y A P F H E O R N O T N I M D A B W O B L I I R H S W O T Y D Q T G Q R E G A E D A S I F E H I G H J U M P P F Y L U M N I N E H T L G M M J I K L O D L G Q N L O N E A R C H E R Y G N D G S I I R X T C B R O N Z E G V M M Y S L A D E M U I D A T S W D D B F A B D R S Y D C G N I M M I W S E P D J R T E B O X I N G K T A F P P T K Quick Quiz 1. What is the offcial Olympic motto? 2. What Academy Award-winning movie profled athlete Eric Liddell, who refused to compete on Sunday? 3. Where will the next Summer Olympics be held in 2012, after Beijing? 4. Which city hosted the frst modern Olympic Games in 1896? Quick Quiz Answers: 1. Higher, faster, stronger; 2. Chariots of Fire; 3. London, England; 4. Athens 5 6 9 8 1 7 4 3 2 8 4 7 5 2 3 9 1 6 1 3 2 9 4 6 8 7 5 7 8 1 3 6 4 2 5 9 3 9 4 2 5 1 7 6 8 6 2 5 7 8 9 3 4 1 4 5 3 1 9 8 6 2 7 2 7 8 6 3 5 1 9 4 9 1 6 4 7 2 5 8 3 August 2008 Faith & friends | 29
Growing up, Dennis Hewitt loved to draw, but he never thought that skill would help free him from the grip of addiction. “I used to think drawing was for kids, but that skill got me on my journey to recovery,” he says. Dennis’ journey started north of Trenton, Ont., where he grew up on a 27-acre lot that his parents leased to nearby farmers. “I had an excellent childhood,” he recalls. “My dad was a plant manager and my mom was a housewife. My parents were very loving.” But when Dennis turned 18, the family moved to Oshawa, where he was introduced to marijuana at his new high school. It was a warning of things to come. After graduation, Dennis ended up working at a wholesale electronics warehouse in Pickering, but moved to Penticton, B.C., after he was laid off. “I was just planning to go for two months but it was so beautiful, I stayed for 20 years,” Dennis laughs. Gainfully employed in the retail sector and working as a disc jockey in his spare time, Dennis was content. In 1999, however, he broke his nose and jaw, and began to use cocaine to numb the pain. Slowly, his life deteriorated. Cocaine became part of his daily existence and he wasn’t able to hold on to a job. Soon after, he lost his house. “I went right to street level,” he says. “I was fortunate in that I knew a lot of people in Penticton, so I did a lot of couch surfing. But on occasion I’d sleep on the donated couches left at the back of The Salvation Army thrift store, and I was often lucky enough to get into the Army’s men’s shelter.” Dots and Lines In his distress, Dennis was introduced to a Salvation Army drug and alcohol counsellor in Penticton. “He was aware of my situation, was aware I was a drug addict,” says Dennis. “Yet he helped me. I’ll always be grateful for that.” In late 2006, Dennis was transferred to the Army’s facility at Miracle Valley, a three-month recovery program, where he enrolled in a unique course. Expressive Arts Therapy uses pastels and paint to help get to the root of a person’s pain. “The counsellors would assign a Dennis Hewitt turned his life around, thanks to The Salvation Army, pastels and paint by Ken Ramstead Drawing Strength 30 | Faith & friends August 2008
topic such as love or hatred,” explains Dennis. “Then they’d ask you to draw your heart. Or they’d ask you to draw a dot and a line on a piece of paper.” “What does this dot represent?” Dennis would be asked. “Well, it represents me,” he’d reply. “It’s black, it’s dark. I have dark emotions.” “What does the line represent?” the counsellors would continue. “The line represents how long I’ve felt I have been in my addiction,” Dennis would reply. Recovery and Accomplishment By the time the three-month course was over and Dennis came out of treatment, his life had been transformed. He was then transferred to the Army’s Belkin House, a residential facility in Vancouver. “I can’t praise that art course enough,” Dennis states. “It dealt not only with the addiction itself but the emotions that surrounded the addiction, which I was trying to suppress.” Recently, Dennis was able to return to Ontario to reconcile with his parents. “My mother was sick at the time so I’m grateful I was able to go. Mom and Dad were as thrilled to see me as I was to see them.” Today, Dennis has completed the Belkin House Personal Development Plan Program and does volunteer work for the Army. He also works for a food-recovery service in Vancouver and is attending the University of British Columbia. Dennis recently returned to Penticton for a couple of days this past year. “I learned that some of my friends had died from drug overdoses. It was a reminder of where I’d come from and how much I’d worked to get to here.” David’s been in recovery for over a year now and while he still struggles, his newfound spirituality aids him in his battle. He attends a Salvation Army church from time to time, where he finds refuge from day-to-day concerns. “Every day that I am clean is an accomplishment,” says Dennis. “I’m happy with myself now. The Salvation Army was the first to give me a hand when I needed shelter. They were the ones who got me on the road to recovery.” “The Salvation Army was the frst to give me a hand when I needed shelter,” says Dennis Hewitt August 2008 Faith & friends | 31
Every year, The Salvation Army helps thousands of kids achieve their potential at fresh air camps. In the great outdoors, our campers hike, canoe, swim, play ball or learn how to play an instrument. They also discover the value of friendship, social responsibility and caring for others. And they have a blast while they’re at it! For more information, contact us at 1-800-SAL-ARMY, SalvationArmy.ca or visit an Army church or centre near you. Climbing to New Heights