COLUMNS

magazine light your world

steps towards becoming a disciple

transforming your budget in 2013

financial freedom 10 ways to serve

mission for the whole family plus an everyday relationship

prayer

Seek God. Share His Love. Humbly Serve.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2013 FiRst PREsBYtERiAN ChURCh oF oRlANdo www.FPCo.oRg

COLUMNS | January - February

SAVE THE DATE

january

4 6 13 14 21 24 27
february

Young at Heart luncheon, 10:30am ordination of elders & deacons in worship, 11am

madagascar trip information meeting, 12pm

secondsunday prayer & worship, 6pm

registration ends for Amazing Collection

registration ends for Financial peace University womens Amazing Collection bible study begins

the christ school open House, 9am First connections begins, 9:30am Financial peace University begins, 4pm
lifeFest registration opens (lifeFest: april 26-28)

1 8 13 16 10

presbytery of Florida meeting ash wednesday (beginning of the lenten season) mens mission trip to the dominican republic secondsunday prayer & worship, 6pm

For more upcoming events visit www.fpco.org/calendar

ColUmNs contents JANUARY&FEBRUARY

dr. david swanson shares a new vision for Firstpres Financial peace University
a new years resolution worth the investment

4 6 8 10 11 12 16 20 21 22 23

bible study insights

with dr. case thorp

bountiful blessings
womens ministry makes an impact in madagascar

the lee Family legacy

14

FEAtUREs Show and Tell

10 ways to live out Gods mission as a family

Living by Choice
seeking God in a busy family schedule

ligHt it Up
defining discipleship and understanding what it meant to Jesus is the first step in becoming defined by discipleship. Kent sterchi and Hailey domeck offer some starting points as we seek to be followers of christ who light the world.

praying p.a.r.t. time with god: Journaling speaking the Future

why we say creeds in worship Family news

18, praYer
what can scripture do in our prayer lives? Jean brown shares her own story of transformation through psalm 51 .
Photos oN thE CovER ANd ElsEwhERE: shEA ChRistiNE

COLUMNS | January - February

on tHe waY
with dr. david swanson
When I got home from our Celebration Service on October 28 of last year, I could not get the image of that night out of my head: a packed sanctuary, our voices in full throat being lifted in praise to God, our gratitude for the leaders of our church who did so much to get us to this place, the great energy and palpable sense of expectation at what God will do in the future in a word, that sanctuary was FILLED. It was filled by the presence of His Holy Spirit. It was an anointed evening, one that will point us towards being a covenant community that makes disciples who light the world! Though we are the underdogs in this world (see Rudy, Hoosiers, Miracle), we are filled by the Holy Spirit, and as Bounds encourages us (< at left), we need to pray that God will continue to bless and anoint this body as we do the hard work that will lead us towards this vision. What does being a disciplemaking church look like? Whats the first step? Those are the questions we are praying over, and I hope you will join us in those prayers. In the short term, however, there are a few things that I would ask of you: 1. Every member in this church has a role to play in this vision. Each of us needs to consider what it means for us to be a disciple and that begins with two basic areas: scripture and prayer. 2. Pray about what you are doing to go deeper in those two areas. People who describe themselves as mature Christians will tell you that the primary catalyst in their growth is prayerful reflection on Gods Word. Thats where we need to begin. 3. Pray for God to give this body a hunger to reach the least and the lost. If we are to be a church that is making disciples, we are going to have to move out into our world to find people who are not and bring them to Jesus Christ. We are going to need to be bolder in our faith and our relationships. 4. Consider your participation in our covenant community. God is a covenant God, and therefore, we are a covenant people. We are called to live and serve together in order to accomplish the Kingdom work of God in this place. We are investors, not consumers. If we see something wrong, we fix it. If we see someone lost, we help them. If we see someone new, we invite them in. If we encounter conflict, we work towards reconciliation rather than heading for the door. If we are to accomplish this vision, we have to be in this together. Thus, where might you serve in this covenant community and how might you give? No doubt, the deck is stacked against us in this. The world wont understand what we are doing or how we are living. Some will be offended but some will also be attracted. Be expectant. Come to worship with your covenant brothers and sisters in the full confidence that God will show up, both in worship and in the ministry of this church. Its a new day, and in so many respects, its a new church. Lets go deep in Christ together and see where He wants to take us! I cant wait. With fond affection and love,

this (anointing of gods Holy spirit) is not the gift of genius. it is not found in the halls of learning. no eloquence can woo it. no industry can win it. it is heavens knighthood given to the chosen true and brave ones who have sought this anointed honor through many an hour of tearful, wrestling prayer. - e.m. bounds,
Power Through Prayer

January - February | COLUMNS

As you think about deepening your life in those two areas, consider how these discipleship opportunities might help: montHlY praYer and praise
The second Sunday of each month, we will gather for no other reason than to praise God and seek His Face in prayer. Modeled loosely on the service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle (Jim Cymbala), our aim is to go deeper in prayer. Come together with your community and pray. Cymbala says their prayer service has been the foundation of their churchs explosive growth. If we are going to baptize 250 people in one year, its going to happen through prayer!

liFe commUnitY groUps

A LCG is a geographically-based group which meets in a local home for the purpose of doing life together. Study, prayer, fellowship and service are the hallmarks of each group. Contact Kent Sterchi (ksterchi@fpco.org) to find a group that meets in your area and go check it out.

sUndaY nigHt disciplesHip

This winter/spring, we will offer Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University course to bring spiritual focus and clarity to understanding our money (see p.6). On Sunday evenings in the fall, look for additional courses designed to put more tools in your discipleship belt.

sUndaY scHool
Each and every week, smaller communities of faith gather in classrooms all over our campus for the purpose of studying Gods Word. Explore them and see if one might be the right fit for you.

learn tHe rHYtHm

Living life as a disciple of Jesus has a distinct rhythm. That rhythm is encapsulated in Seek, Share and Serve. We seek the Lord in worship. We rest. We renew. We learn. We share in covenant community with others, building relationships

worsHip
Every Sunday, we are invited to take a one-day sabbatical and rest in the Lord. We gather with the community of faith to reorient our lives away from the world and regain our footing in the things of God. Simple, but foundational.

with those who share our faith and those who do not. We share Christ as we share our lives. We move out into the world to humbly serve, identifying the least and lost and moving in their direction.

these are the things you will see in the short term, but more discipleship opportunities will be coming as we develop core strategies that will help us fulfill gods vision. Pray about where you are now, and take that first step on the wonderful journey of becoming a disciple who lights the world.
COLUMNS | January - February

Financial Freedom
EVERYTHING!
Your money. Your story. Your life.
$8,000 in just the rst three months!

This changes

Learn Gods ways of handling money with Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University! The average turnaround is

Transforming budgets and finding joy in generosity

more info

Tired of feeling like a financial plan and security information here. and contact First, it provides tools to help you reshape and rebuild your household budget. Logical instrucare always out of your reach? Want to get your daveramsey.com/findaclass house in order so you can make a greater giving tion and clear steps from Ramsey will help you realign your finances and learn how to manage impact? debt, savings and giving. Second, it engages your whole family: age-appropriate courses will be ofIf your financial frustrations are more personal fered for children and youth at the same time as than just the crummy economy, youre not alone. the adult classes. Ready to make it a family project Whether you need a total transformation or simand make a fresh start in 2013? ply to brush up on your budgeting, it only takes a few weeks commitment to change practices and Call lori Needham if you have any create healthier habits. Gods principles of stewardship and generosity extend far beyond our budgets and tithing, but our finances are a critical place for us to set Biblical priorities. Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University is an investment in financial freedom that you can make this month and see returns for a lifetime.
questions, at 407.423.3441, x1463 or by emailing lneedham@fpco.org

Enter your class date/time/location

Did you know?

If you owe $6000 on a credit card with a 9% interest rate, and you pay $100 a month on your bill it will take you 21 years to pay off your debt, and you will pay an additional $4,193.82 in interest!

January - February | COLUMNS

EVERYTHING!
Your money. Your story. Your life.
Learn Gods ways of handling money with Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University! The average turnaround is $8,000 in just the rst three months!

This changes

JANUARy 27 - MARCH 24
more info

Enter your class date/time/location and contact information here.

daveramsey.com/findaclass 4:00-6:00PM at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando

Classes are $89 (individual or couple) and includes a Lifetime Membership to FPU
lesson overview: Super Saving, Relating with Money, Cash Flow Planning, Dumping Debt, Buyer Beware, The Role of Insurance, Retirement and College Planning, Real Estate and Mortgages, The Great Misunderstanding (generosity!). Classes for children and youth will be offered simultaneously to the adult classes. Under the direction of Sarah Savage, Childrens Ministry director, children (K-5th) will begin to gain an understanding of the concepts of money, saving and giving. Generation Change for middle and high-school age youth will help students with a foundational understanding of personal finances, the impact of choices and saving. Child care will be available with a reservation for infants through age 4.

Register by January 21 or go to www.fpco.org/FPU for more information

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COLUMNS | January - February

BREAk it dowN
What do you look for when you study your Bible? What is important? Dr. Case Thorp gives us some insight in the Gospel of John.

- Word used four times for Jesus (logos) in Greek... think communication - Food for thought: How is Jesus seen here as Gods word / communication / revelation? Gospel writer Jesus best friend; the beloved disciple also wrote 1, 2, 3 John & Revelation lived past 90AD

John
The Word Became Flesh In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God, 2He was with God in the beginning. 3Through him all things were made; with- John the out him nothing was made that has been made. 4In him was life, and that life was the light of Baptist, ) men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the (aka JTB not John darkness has not understooda it. the disciple 6There came a man who was sent from who is God; his name was John. 7He came as a witness writing to testify concerning that light, so that through this him all men might believe. 8He himself was narration. not the light; he came only as a witness to the , light. 9The true light that gives light to every -For JTB see 1:19 man was coming into the world.b 10He was in the world, and though the and following. world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11He came to that which - For John was his own, but his own did not receive him. the 12Yet to all who received him, to those who beloved believed in his name, he gave the right to bedisciple, come children of God 13children born not see of natural descent,c nor of human decision or a John husbands will, but born of God. 21:20, 14The Word became flesh and made his 24-25 dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,d who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15John testifies concerning him. He cries out, saying, This was he of whom I said, He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me. 16From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. 17For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18No one has ever seen God, but God the One 6 and Only,d,e who is at the Fathers side, has Section titles are made him known.

him who he was. 20He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, I am not the Christ.f 21They asked him, Then who are you? 3 Are you Elijah? He said, I am not. Define a Are you a Prophet? Pharisee He answered, No. - a Jewish 22Finally they said, Who are you? Give sub-group into which us an answer to take back to those who sent us. Jesus was What do you say about yourself? 23John replied in the words of Isaiah the born - working prophet, I am the voice of one calling in the class, lots of desert, Make straight the way for the Lord rules and 24Now some Pharisees who had been sent religiosity 25questioned him, Why then do you baptize - other if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the sub-groups: Prophet? Saducees 26I baptize withh water, John replied who were elite, power but among you stands one you do not know. 27He is the one who comes after me, the thongs sharing with Romans; ran of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. the Temple; 28This all happened at Bethany on the Zealots, who other side of the Jordan, where John was baplived outside tizing. the city and Jesus the Lamb of God 29The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30This is the one I meant when I said, A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me. 31I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel. 32Then John gave his testimony: I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. 33I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.i

were radicals

Check out Bible map in back of the Bible and locate Bethany on the west bank of the Jordan River

helpful, but written by the editor, not JOhn. These headings are not Scripture.

John the Baptist Denies Being the Christ 19Now this was Johns testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask

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January - February | COLUMNS

Theology Insight! - 2 Baptisms: > one with water (external) >one by the Holy Spirit (internal) - When were each of mine?

hANdY hiNts FoR stUdYiNg YoUR BiBlE

Think about your translation.
While Scripture doesnt change over time, language does. Reading a version like the King James Version (KJV) with ancient sentence structure and phrases can be filled with beautiful language, but you dont want it to be an obstacle to understanding Gods Word. Dr. Swanson preaches from the New International Version (NIV), a modern translation that is a good place to start if you are having difficulty understanding a word.

Know the difference between a paraphrase and a translation. Translations are true to the original text, word for word. Paraphrases like The Message or the NLT take more liberty with the language, but can be helpful when trying to understand a particular story or passage.

Use a study Bible. The features of a

study Bible, like cross-references, concordances and maps give context and are a great way to see how different passages are connected, and likewise, how the scripture applies to your everyday life.

Visit a website like biblegateway.com

or blueletterbible.org where you can read and compare several translations on the screen at the same time, and even break down words and phrases into the original Greek and Hebrew using a concordance (a reference tool in the back of most Bibles indicating each place a particular word appears in the Bible).

Look for Dr. Case Thorps Bible Buying Guide in the next Columns magazine, with helpful tips about features and versions.

NExt stEP
Amazing Collection Bible study: other letters and Revelation
Join Womens Ministry as we wrap up a three-year journey of the Bible with the final letters of the Bible written by Peter, John and Jude as well as Johns Revelation of the final days and victory of Jesus. The Winter Session begins Thursday, January 24 or Monday, January 28. Classes are Thursday and Monday 9:30am-11:30am or Monday, 6:30pm-8:30pm. Childcare is available for the morning class with a reservation. Register before January 14 at www.fpco.org/register or pick up a registration form in the Edington Ministry Center lobby. For more information, contact Lori Needham at lneedham@fpco.org or 407.423.3441 x1463.
COLUMNS | January - February

womens ministrY celebrates

by lori Needham, womens ministry

FRom lEFt: lEigh swANsoN, BARBARA FRANCis, mERRill FRAilEY ANd kAtiE wittER. Photos BY todd mClENNAN.

On Saturday, November 10, the women of FPCO gathered for a festive holiday coffee and brunch buffet, ushering in the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Guest speaker Angela Neel of Angela Neel Interiors spoke about ways to unclutter and make a house feel like a home. Merrill Frailey, life and family coach, offered ways to create peace, balance, health and thanksLIVING in a busy season. Frailey urged us not to rush joy out of the moment when being with those we loveencouraging us to linger, listen and love. Finally, our friend Barbara Francis closed with a reminder that Christ seeks us, and wants us to know what He can do for us today. To nurture this relationship during a hectic holiday season, we must seek Him through intentional quiet time and prayer. Another relationship celebrated was with our partners in mission the young women of Madagascar. Each table in Lee Fellowship Hall was adorned with an organic, rustic arrangement designed to represent Gods bounty. Through the sales of one of-a-kind floral pieces, 28 women took home beautiful artistic cre10
January - February | COLUMNS

ations from our partner, the FPCO Floral Ministry. Through floral sales and a portion of the event registration fees, we were able to gift our friends in Madagascar an additional $2,946 which will be used to support their school year, offer much needed renovations to their school facilities, and most importantly, heighten their awareness that they are cared about and loved by a group of women in Orlando, Florida!

During our fall Bible study season, a total of $10,395.29 was collected for the women of Madagascar.
Praise God for the ways He provides for His church around the world! If you would like to know how you support the women of Madagascar, please contact Lori Needham in Womens Ministry at ext. 1463 or lneedham@fpco.org.

thE lEE FAmilY lEgACY

FRom lEFt: BRAd stAtoN, RiChARd lEE, kAthY lEE, NAtAliE hAmER, ANd kEviN tAYloR iN thE REFoRmAtioN ChAPEl. Photos BY todd mClENNAN.

by Brad staton, hoCF Executive director

Heart of the City Foundation was established in 1979 with the purpose of supporting the ongoing ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. By encouraging generosity among Gods people, our foundation is able to match resources with needs, all to the glory of God.

On October 28, Heart of the City Foundation (HOCF) honored Thomas Gilbert (T.G.) Lee for his years of service to God and generosity toward the ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. Over the past year HOCF has honored three former members of the Yowells Young Presbyters, Sunday school class. We are grateful for the faithfulness of Chesley Magruder, Linton Allen and T.G. Leeall key in the history of our church, and particularly the Reformation Chapelthey were boys who grew into men of God under the leadership of their Sunday school teacher, Mr. Newton Yowell. We are pleased to announce that Richard and Kathy Lee, along with their family, have established a new scholarship in honor of Richards parents, T.G. and Bess. The Lee Family Fund will provide scholarships to deserving students each year, ones who might otherwise not be able to afford higher education; an excellent way to honor someones legacy in an ongoing way. In addition to scholarships, HOCF focuses our funding in three other areas: Christian education at the church, facilities and capital improvements at the church, and missions worldwide. If you would like to explore ways your generosity can impact Gods Kingdom as the Lees have, please contact our Executive Director, Brad Staton, at bstaton@fpco.org or 407.423.3441 x1457.
COLUMNS | January - February

11

The greatest impact on me was seeing my parents live out mission. It was part of their lifestyle, not just what they said was important, and we incorporated it into our family life... They wanted to follow Him and be about whats important to Him.
- Carol Hafer

Photos BY CARol hAFER

ShOw aNd TeLL: teacHing mission witH oUr lives

by Carol hafer As we all know, children learn more from what we do than what we say. Although my Mom and Dad were starting a small business and focused on spending quality time with my sister and me, they didnt wait to be involved in mission. When I was 3 years old and my sister Lori was 6, my Dad took a mission trip to Asia. Before he left, he bought two little Bibles and carried them with him, writing each place he went in them. As we grew up, whenever he told stories and showed photos of the trip, we got our little Bibles out and referred to the places listed (see above). To this day, I keep that Bible on my bedside table as a reminder of my Dad and the priorities he passed on to me. The greatest impact on me was seeing my parents live out mission. It was part of their lifestyle, not just what they said was important, and we incorporated it into our family life. It wasnt done to earn Gods approval or to be a good person. They were drawing close to God individually getting to know more of His heart. They wanted to follow Him and be about whats important to Him. As I talk to parents, I often see a tension as they try to discern: Do I focus on my family or do I focus on ministering to others? While there are different seasons in our lives and your family will shape what your ministry looks like, the two are not mutually exclusive. The family is not an obstacle for ministry; it is a vehicle for ministry. A family actually becomes stronger and more effective as its members devote themselves to serving others together.

why do we Serve?

A helpful reminder when sharing with your family or Life Community by sarah savage Service is giving our time, talents and material blessings to show Gods love to others. We serve for three reasons: because God commands us to serve (Galatians 5:13, 1 Peter 4:1, Peter 4:11); because faith without deeds is dead (James 2:14-19); because we want to love others as Christ loved us, with a sacrificial love (John 13:34-35). Our goal is to be the hands and feet of Jesus on earth and highlight Gods love, not our sacrifice in serving. Mission is not just about serving those who are in need of material things; we also serve those who have spiritual needs, especially by praying for others at home and with our family.

12

January - February | COLUMNS

10 wAYs

we talked with the children and told them that we were going to serve together for the Fall serve day. we had

to ENgAgE YoUR FAmilY iN missioN

1.

Pray for a missionary, a ministry, or a part of the world. Reference our FaithServes Focus in the worship bulletin and then put pictures on the fridge. Or have your child draw a picture to highlight what he or she is praying for or have them write out their prayer.

to plan and let people know we would miss some games (i coach one of my sons teams), but we want serving to be a priority for our family.
- Tad Smith, FPCO dad

2. Read excerpts from mission stories at bedtime or during family dinner and talk about them. (One resource: www.squidoo.com/missionary-stories-for-kids;

read stories about Christian children who live in countries where Christians are persecuted: www.kidsofcourage.com)

3. Visit our sister church, Heart of Mercy, on a Sunday to worship with them and see how God is working in our community. 4. Clear your family schedule for serveday on April 13 and make it a point to invite family friends or have your children invite a friend. 5. Spend an afternoon (3-5pm) at the Mercy Achievers club, hanging out with the kids and doing homework together.
(Contact Cindi Hyltin at hyltinfamily@aol.com.)

6. Bring Items for Bring your Heart to Church on Sundays explain this mission and have your children save up to buy items and contribute. 7. Put together snack packs: protein bars & water bottles to keep in your car so when you see someone on the street, you have something to offer.

8. Host a visiting missionary or have a local missionary over for dinner to share about their experiences. (Contact me at chafer@fpco.org) 9. Go to the Dominican Republic with Mission Emanuel in 2013.
(Contact Bret Allen at ballen@fpco.org)

10. Adopt a childs lunchtime at the girls school in Madagascar for $1 a day and talk about it with your family when you pack lunches for the day.
(Contact me at chafer@fpco.org)

Remember, serving together is part of Gods plan for each of us. He will equip us to make an impact in our community. Dont be afraid to be intentional. Your family can be shaped by Gods priorities, or the worlds ideas of what your priorities should be, but rarely both.
Carol Hafer is FPCOs Director of Mission and a passionate champion in helping each member find a way to use their gifts to be a part of Gods mission to the world. Sarah Savage is FPCOs Director of SHINE Childrens Ministry and is a believer in the whole familys ability to serve others. Both are committed to equipping you, your family and your Life Community to teach and live out Gods mission to the world, every day.
COLUMNS | January - February

13

LIGHT your world

a call to active discipleship for every believer
by kent sterchi & hailey domeck On October 28th, David shared with us our churchs vision for the future by calling our covenant community to live into this vision: making disciples who light the world. The call to go and make disciples is something each of us must consider as we live in covenant community together. Consider how you are investing yourself in this vision by using this guide to discipleship (on the facing page) to help you examine your own journey of following Jesus.
Kent Sterchi and Hailey Domeck lead FPCOs Life Communities, and would love to help you find a community where you can get connected. For more information about how you can be a part of community within this church family, call Hailey at 407.423.3441 x1497.

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January - February | COLUMNS

discipleship is the journey of following Jesus over a lifetime. it is a serious commitment to follow Jesus where the character and competency of christ is formed in us daily.

disCiPlEshiP is:

dEmoNstRAtEd BY:

sCRiPtURE to REFERENCE:

Ask YoURsElF:

believing what Jesus believed,

a transformed mind

- Matthew 5-7, The Sermon on the Mount - Romans 12:1-2

- Galatians 5:22-23 - Philippians 2:5-8 - Galatians 2:20

Do I make time to be in Gods Word each day? Do I have a plan for growing in my knowledge and understanding of Gods Word? Is the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol) increasing in my life? Does my character reflect the character of Jesus? Am I allowing the Gospel to shape the way I treat people? Do I have a LIFE Community group that I meet with regularly? Do I have a people or place that I am faithfully serving in Christs name and for His glory? What is my plan for making disciples and is it working? Who are the people God is calling me to love and lead towards Jesus?

living the way Jesus lived,

transformed character

loving the way Jesus loved,

transformed relationships

- John 13:34-35 - John 15:12-14

ministering the way He ministered, leading the way He led.

transformed service

- Matthew 20:24-28 - John 13:1-17

transformed influence

- Matthew 28:18-20 - 2 Timothy 2:2

COLUMNS | January - February

15

DECIDING BETWEEN WHAT IS GOOD AND WHAT IS RIGHT

Living by Choice

by Bret Allen

ChoiCE.

The very word implies decision. When a decision is made, something is chosen (and something is not). In parenting, we make choices all the time. So its only fitting that our children learn to make choices too. We need to learn that we just cant have it all. Recently, FPCO took middle-school students to Southwind for a weekend retreat. Our high school students enthusiastically volunteered for the work crew those who wait tables, clean up, do the dishes, etc. However, there was a problem: three area high schools were celebrating Homecoming that same weekend. We asked our high school students to make a choice: choose homecoming, or choose camp. You cant do both. Whats so hard about this? Everything! And its doubly difficult when both choices are so appealing. In this day and age, weve convinced ourselves that we can do it ALL and we can make it work. We can have our cake and eat it too. In the Scripture, we see that Jesus made choices. In Mark 1, Jesus chose to leave Capernaum and go to other villages in Galilee, even though there were plenty of people in Capernaum who still needed Him.

In all that He did, Jesus acted according to the will of the Father. As believers, our whole lives are given as a gift to God. Through prayer and wisdom, we can rest knowing that our choices will please Godwhether were praying or studying, reading the Bible or playing basketball. As parents, we can help our children work through the factors involved in their decisions. We can model choices in our own lives, giving up good things for the best options. We can choose to slow the pace. We can show them by our example that choices are a necessaryand goodaspect of living as a disciple of Jesus. Bret Allen is FPCOs Family Life Director. He and his wife, Kim, parent four children; all six are still learning how to choose Gods best for them, daily. ballen@fpco.org

NExt stEPs
Talk to your family or your Life Community about how you spend your week. What does your schedule say about what you value?
COLUMNS | January - February

17

witH tHe mind into tHe Heart

by Jean Brown

create in me a clean heart, o god, and renew a right spirit within me... psalm 51:10

Outwardly: Picture a Mom, mid-40s with a cherished family, joyfully serving in her area of passion as a youth Upon reflection today, the path appears so clear to me. ministry worker. Inwardly: Her heart needed cleansing. Back in 1994, I held onto the Scripture each day obediently praying while Jesus walked with me, discovering Jesus quickened my heart while standing among a that His transforming work included exploring my part group of high school students singing worship songs in the relationships with my parents. He revealed the including King Davids Psalm 51 prayer. Christs nudge ways in which I had participated in the challenges that prompted me to pray Psalm 51:10-12 at first waking held me captive as a victim. He revealed more about each morning for over a year. them, prompting me to take my eyes off myself and emAt first, the Psalmists words formed in my head, memo- pathize with what my parents had faced in their lives. rized for recall, but as the days passed , the Holy Spirit began to move the words from my head to my heart. The mem- to pray is to descend with the mind into the heart and there to stand before the ory in my mind changed to the recognition of my hearts face of the lord, ever present, all seeing, need for repentance and Christs purifying forgiveness.

My parents died too young. By 1981 when I was thirtyone, they were gone. The confusion of hurtful childhood memories and misunderstandings were left for me to face without them. Thankfully, with Jesus, I had a Savior and a Guide!

within you.

- theophan the recluse (1815-1894)

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January - February | COLUMNS

Once in my heart with the Lord, His transformation included my being loved, known, sorrowful, and forgiven. The assurance of Christs unconditional love for my parents and for me brought deep healing and gratitude. In praying Psalm 51:10-12 daily over time, the Lord transformed my life bringing reconciliation to these cherished relationships and the call to live with a focus on the transforming power of prayer in Jesus name! What about you? Is Jesus prompting you to pray a Scripture, moving it with your mind into your heart with Jesus as your guide? A comprehensive prayer resource like Sylvia Gunters Prayer Portions offers a concordance of Scriptures covering the challenges many of us face today. Jesus promises to be with us always; He will certainly guide you on this journey.
Jean Brown is a member of the Prayer Team and College of Elders. She and her husband, Syd, moved from Bellevue, WA to Winter Garden, FL and are finding their home here at FPCO. When they are not joyfully serving and worshipping at church, they are joyfully entertaining two grandchildren.

meet tHe PRAyER TEAm

FRom lEFt, BACk Row: AlENE BAkER, sYd BRowN, kim PENNEY, mYRtlE AmUNdsoN, tom sChNEidER, JAN Cox. middlE Row: miChEllE stERChi, JUliE BURkEtt, JEAN BRowN. FRoNt Row: lisA shAw ANd doNNA mCClEllAN. Not PiCtUREd: vEsNA AllisoN, NANCY CzEsNAkowiCz, BARBARA FRANCis, JUdY hUlsEY, sARAh holComB, sARAh PARkhoUsE, REBECCA mitChEll, BEttY RiCE ANd kEN sCEARCE.

Prayer can be an intimidating practice to begin alone. Our Prayer Team offers guidance, personal experience and a warm welcome to anyone interested in learning more about how to pray and what prayer needs arise within our church family. Join us as we pray over our church campus on Mondays 1:45pm in the Sanctuary. For more information on the Prayer Team, contact Lisa Shaw at shawdlwd@aol.com.

< where to pray?

For a quiet, comfortable space where you can rest in Jesus and listen for His voice, we recommend First Pres awesome Prayer Room. Its actually three small rooms, located between the Sanctuary and Lee Fellowship Hall. Its an ideal place to take a moment on Sunday mornings and share a prayer request, or for longer visits during the week to try some of the interactive prayer exercises.
COLUMNS | January - February

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need some refreshment in your prayer life? take a moment to reflect on these verses and take heart. the p.a.r.t acronym is a helpful way to find the rhythm of the Holy spirit in your devotion, and a great reminder when you dont know where to start.

TAkinG PART in PRAyER

Praising
Praise be to you, O Lord, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O Lord, is the Kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you, you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. I Chronicles 29:10-13 I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang: Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise! Rev. 5:11-12

Admitting

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, I will confess my transgressions to the LORDand you forgave the guilt of my sin. Psalm 32:5

ReqUesting

You want something but dont get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. James 4:2 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. John 14:13

THanKing

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thes. 5:16-18

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January - February | COLUMNS

time witH GOD

making spiritual disciplines a daily habit
One of the ways we show our discipleship (sitting under the leadership) of Jesus is through the priorities we set for ourselves each day, and the habits we form over time. In this, and upcoming editions of the Columns, the Discipleship & Spiritual Formation Team will offer definitions and suggestions to begin implementing or practicing a spiritual discipline, and recommending reading materials that will help you begin a spiritual transformation. As we explore these practices, one that is tangible and almost immediately fruitful is journaling. Journaling is something you can start today. It doesnt have to be in a fancy note pad or a book designed for journaling take a pad of paper to begin this process. All you need is a tool that will permit you to look back and review what you wrote.

Heres your first assignment:

1. As you contemplate and survey the disciplines in your life, take a few moments right now and list any of the spiritual disciplines you have practiced in the past. 2. What benefits did you receive from these practices? 3. Did you continue to use them?

Spiritual disciplines: Small things Christians intentionally do to open themselves to Gods work of conforming them to the image of Christ.1
Spiritual disciplines are not major lifestyle changes. They are subtle changes in implementing habits and practices that lead to an intimacy with God and an awareness of the activity of the Holy Spirit in our life.

4. How would you describe your relationship with God? Great start! Keep track of your new journal youll be using it in the future!

What are these disciplines, and am I practicing them without knowing it? Worship, devotional reading, prayer, Sabbath keeping, works of compassion or service, fellowship, confession, submission, celebration, stewardship and journaling.
To learn more about what shapes our souls and become better equipped in your spiritual disciplines, contact Lori Needham, who is part of the Discipleship and Spiritual Formation Team, at 407.423.3441 x1463 or lneedham@fpco.org.
1 Definition extracted from Soul Shaping by Jim L. Wilson
COLUMNS | January - February

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Speaking the Future

why creeds matter in worship
by wil Brown

As a worship leader & musician, some of the most rewarding moments of my life happen on Sunday morning when I see others set aside pride and inhibitions to recklessly worship God. Several weeks ago I backed away from my mic during worship to hear just voices as thecongregation soberly proclaimed, Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers. It was MY sin that held him there until it was accomplished. His dying breath has brought me life, I know that it is finished. Those moments in worship of corporate proclamationare vital to forming and reinforcing what we believe. I believe in God the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth transcends so much of our humanity: what we think is appropriate to wear to church, the style of worship we prefer, the arguments about nonessentials that can so easily divide us. Reciting the creeds together is a reminder of ourshared brokenness before God. Creeds are one of the many ways we, as a church, are given the opportunity to participate in the past, present and future church, our voices an echo of the saints who came before us. What can seem arbitrary or even perfunctory and rote is actually a core expression of the beliefs which mold and shape our lives everyday and that is truly worth reminding ourselves each week.
Wil Brown is the Director of Genesis and worship leader on Sunday mornings. He likes the Second Helvetic Confession, rock n roll and plaid shirts. He and his wife Natalie are expecting their second daughter in January. wbrown@fpco.org

music to love: wils recommendations

4 Favorite worship albums right now:
1) The Loft Sessions - Bethel Music 2) Season One - All Sons &Daughters 3) Come Away - Jesus Culture 4) The Heartbeat - Bellarive

3
6 Favorite non-worship albums right now:
1) Valtari - Sigur Ros 2) Babel - Mumford & Sons 3) Life of Leisure - Washed Out 4) Attack & Release - The Black Keys 5) Lungs - Florence + The Machine 6) Torches - Foster The People

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January - February | COLUMNS

FAmilY NEws
Sympathy to...
Frank & Pam Cawthon, Jr. on the death of his father, Frank Cawthon Sr. on September 26, 2012. Mr Cawthon was the grandfather of Reed Cawthon. Dr. Bob & Connie Shettler on the death of his father, Rev. Walter Robert Shettler, on September 28, 2012. The friends and family of Earl K. Wood, who died October 15, 2012. Martha Jones, on the death of her brother, O.J. Kaney, on October 20, 2012. Judy and John Albert, on the death of her mother, Eva McClelland, on October 20, 2012. Carol and Chuck Ickes on the death of her mother, Alice Marshall, on October 2, 2012. Mrs. Marshall was the grandmother of Gregg (Nikki) Ickes. Kay Odell on the death of her husband, William Odell, on November 17, 2012. Randy and Julie Maddox on the death of his father, Harry Maddox, on November 17, 2012. Mr Maddox was the grandfather of Caroline & Maryellen Maddox. Lynn and Frank Stansberry on the death of her mother, Carolyn Dannelly, on November 25, 2012. Joan Kenny on the death of her daughter, Karen Talley, on November 26, 2012. Jennifer Gaspari, on the death of her father, James Gaspari, on December 1, 2012. Chris and Kara Starkey, on the death of his grandfather, Edward Starkey, on December 5, 2012 The family and friends of Beverly Potter, who died December 9, 2012. Steve and Connie Chaney, on the death of his brother, Charles Chaney, on December 9, 2012.

Congratulations to...

Steve and Jennifer Demanovich on the birth of their son, Cooper Stephen Demanovich, born July 30, 2012. Andrew and Katie Lee Stuart on the birth of their son, Joseph Daniel Stuart, born November 9, 2012. The proud grandparents are Kim and Susie Kemper, and the proud great-grandmother is Grace Appleby. Kristen and John Burden on the birth of their daughter, Olivia Joy Burden, born November 11, 2012. The siblings, Jack (8), Anna (5) and Eli (2). The proud grandparents are Alice and Randy Burden. Charles Gerald Williams and Allison Lee Butt, who were married November 10, 2012, in the Sanctuary. Bradley Scott Yochum and Lauren Elizabeth Chalfont, who were married November 17, 2012, in the Sanctuary. Lauren is the daughter of Frank and Leslie Chalfont. Gabriel Jose De Jesus and Rachel Ann Divine were married December 8, 2012, in the Sanctuary. Rachel is the daughter of Russ and Janice Divine, and the granddaughter of Larry and Ann Divine.

Call FPCO at 407.423.3441 to

- schedule a baptism x1451 - request a hospital visit x1455 - plan a wedding x1453 - arrange a memorial service x1455 - donate flowers for worship x1451 - ask donation & giving questions x1479 - change your address x1471 - purchase a sermon CD or DVD x1438 - join the choir x1273 - reserve childcare x2250 - reach the security office 407.415.9793 - contact the Weekday School 407.996.5864 - reserve a meeting space x1469 - learn more about the Columns x1467 - learn more about support groups x1159 - to serve the community x1474

FoR PAstoRAl EmERgENCiEs after the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm, please leave a voicemail message at the main church number, which will page the minister on call.
COLUMNS | January - February

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First Presbyterian Church of Orlando 106 E. Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

The First Presbyterian Columns (USPS 604-040) is published bimonthly by the First Presbyterian Church. Circulation: 2,800. (2,500 by US Mail, 300 by on-campus distribution). Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, Florida. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COLUMNS, 106 E. Church St. Orlando, FL 32801-3390. 2012 First Presbyterian Church of Orlando COLUMNS.

PERIODICALS RATE US POSTAGE PAID ORLANDO, FL

106 east church street 407.423.3441

| orlando, Fl 32801

www.fpco.org

TRADITIONAL SERVICES: Sundays, 8:30 & 11:00am in the Sanctuary GENESIS SERVICES: Sundays, 9:45 & 11:00am in Lee Fellowship Hall LIVE ONLINE SERVICES: Sundays, 8:30, 9:45 & 11:00am ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL: Sundays, 9:45 - 10:45am

POSTMASTER: Time Sensitive Material Please Deliver by January 3, 2013

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JANUARY 13 6-7Pm PRAisE god ANd PRAY togEthER lEE FEllowshiP hAll
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