Living as a Beloved Child

January 26, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

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Parenting Points

Kids cannot wait to grow up. From countdowns to the next birthday to dreams of getting out of the house, kids want to rush into adulthood because they believe the grass is greener on the other side. However, the failure of the alluring promises of adulthood is clearly displayed in the popular slogan: “I can’t adult today.”

Adulting is overrated because with freedom comes the pressure of responsibility. It is fun to spend money however you want but making money to spend is more of an effort than anticipated. It is great to be able to have a family but with family comes the complexities of relationships and raising kids. Adulting comes with the constant challenge to deliver and perform. As adults, we dream of a simpler day and time. We think of our childhood as the glory days, yet we often wish that we could return to that place of rest, and affirmation we experienced as a kid. What if there was a place where we could go back?

When it comes to our faith, we take the performance-driven tools of adulting and seek to apply them to our relationship with Jesus. We launch Bible reading plans to accomplish daily reading habits. We set goals to pray more. We plan on having a daily family devotion with our kids. We commit to being more intentional to serve others. When February comes and our best-made plans are lost to the struggles of real life, where do we turn? Do we double-down our efforts to salvage a mediocre performance? Or do we realize Jesus didn’t call us to perform for Him but simply to be with Him? “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are” (1 John 3:1 ESV). The invitation from Jesus is to become a child again- to experience His love. We can crawl like a little child into the lap of our loving Father to draw deeper into our relationship with Him. God’s love for us is not based on our efforts, but Jesus’ effort for us at the cross.

As beloved children, we can lay down the pressure to perform. We can set aside the stress of adulting. We can rest in the arms of the One who is true love, and for some indescribable reason, He has decided to shower His love upon us.

–Dr. Ben Birdsong

Missions Minister at Christ Church Birmingham

Writer and Speaker

www.benbirdsong.com

January 26, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Here’s to Your Health

1. Say “Be Mine!” to beautiful skin with an Aveda Facial!

Aveda Facial Benefits:

Anti-aging treatments
Organic skin care products
Plant stem cells
Customized results

2. Give the gift of an AVEDA Spa Pedicure & Manicure!

Benefits:

Promotes blood circulation
Improved nail health
Decrease stress
Removes dead skin cells

3. Gift that special someone Health and Beauty with a T. Fox SalonSpa Gift Card.

Experience certified organic/vegan Aveda products and services. Use for:

Hair services
Spa services
Nail services
Aveda products

4. Trust the team of Color Experts at T. Fox SalonSpa with all your color needs.

Aveda Color Benefits:

Add Shine
Naturally Derived
Customizable just for YOU
Vegan
Cruelty Free

For more ideas on how to best care for your hair and skin visit the T. Fox SalonSpa Facebook page where every Tuesday the team posts a Tuesday Care Tip www.facebook.com/TFoxSalonspa. The team also invites you to stop by the SalonSpa on Valleydale Road in Hoover to learn more.

-Brought to you by T. Fox SalonSpa, Top 200 Salon in North America by Salon Today

2080 Valleydale Road, Hoover, AL 35244

205-403-8369

www.tfoxsalon.com

T. Fox SalonSpa is offering a Readers’ Rewards Coupon for February!

January 26, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Senior Scene

Senior Safety Checklist

If your mom or dad lives alone, be proactive when you visit. Look for signs that their quality of life isn’t what it should be. If you see any of these signs, it could mean that they would benefit from a move to a senior living community.

Consistent weight loss with no underlying medical condition
When visiting, you find the stove on and unattended
Makes repeated errors with medication
EMS has been called to their homes no more than one occasion
Too confused to call for help
Increased instances of illness or recent hospitalizations
Diagnosis of dehydration or malnutrition
Unable to prepare themselves nutritious meals
Refuses visits from family members to conceal deterioration
Insufficient finances to cover full time private home care costs
Medicine cabinet contains many expired medications
While normally outgoing, has become socially withdrawn
Doesn’t recall how they arrived at destination
Automobile in disrepair
Neighbors report loved one wandering aimlessly
Thermostat set at extreme temperatures
Deterioration in hygiene
Bills left unpaid
Frequently loses items

Fun Times at Brookdale

(Left Picture) Tom and Jane Smithson enjoying a carriage ride at our Holiday Open House, December 2021.

(Right Picture) Vaughn and Nelda Hendon recently celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary at Brookdale University Park!

(Left Picture) A resident of Brookdale enjoying playing the piano.

(Right Picture) Every season is celebrated at Brookdale… even football season! Residents enjoyed a party for the National Championship Game, January 2022.

An Invitation to Experience Brookdale

We are excited and proud to say that Brookdale University Park is open to new residents! Brookdale residents enjoy an engaging lifestyle with a selection of care options to meet changing needs. The community conveniently located off Lakeshore Drive offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer’s and dementia care and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Call 205-870-0786 to connect with one of our team members who would be delighted to help you plan your personal visit, www.brookdale.com.

-Tara Bailey, Brookdale University Park

Contact Tara to participate in upcoming Brookdale educational offerings and to schedule a tour, [email protected], 205-874-5409

January 26, 2022January 26, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Our House

Do you decorate for Valentines Day? Some people love to add hearts and all things love to their decor in the month of February. I’ve even seen friends that are neutral lovers make wooden heart banners that are absolutely adorable. For whatever reason, I have never decorated for the holiday, but I do love adding some pops of pink to my spaces. The great thing about doing that is it can carry you into Spring! Here are some simple ways to add pink to your decor:

Blush colored pillows. The easiest way to make a statement change to your space.
Pink flowers. Add them to a basket, jar or any kind of container to make your space festive and pretty.
Floral prints. Floral prints speak of romance and spring. Its the perfect addition for Valentines Day, and can stay through the next season.
Blush colored throw. Another easy way to instantly change the look of your room. Its the perfect amount of subtle change.
Heart shaped cookies on the counter. This gives you something pretty to display and puts you in the holiday feels as well.
Pale pink candles. If you want a subtle change to your tablescape, try adding some pale pink candles. They will give it the perfect amount of romance and elegance.

If you try any of these ideas, I would love for you to tag me on Instagram so I can see!

—Charlotte Evans Russell
Instagram: @CharlottesHappyHome For more design inspiration and tips, follow me on Instagram @charlotteshappyhome and subscribe to my blog, charlotteshappyhome.com. Read Charlotte’s inspiring faith story here.

January 21, 2022January 20, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Here’s to your Health

“My faith is a core part of my life and that certainly becomes focused in my daily walk and calling as a doctor,” shares Jeffery Gunnells, M.D. of Henderson & Walton Women’s Center, P.C.(HWWC). Dr. Gunnells and his wife moved to Birmingham for his medical school training in 1980. He completed his residency at the University of South Alabama Medical Center and returned to the Magic City in 1988. He is a deacon at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church where he and his wife have taught Together for Life marriage classes for 27 years.

Dr. Jeffrey Gunnells — Dr. Gunnells and his wife, Melissa, are longtime residents of Vestavia, Ala. Both of their sons live close by with their wives and children.

A mission trip inspired Dr. Gunnells to become a physician. “I spent a week in the Dominican Republic as a high school senior on a medical mission trip with three doctors and a dentist. During that time, I began to feel a calling to medicine,” he says. He was introduced to HWWC through his father-in-law that served on the New Orleans Seminary board with HWWC senior partner Phil Walton. “This contact led to my introduction to Henderson & Walton,” Dr. Gunnells explains.

Dr. Gunnells is passionate about caring for his patients. “At this stage in my career, it is very satisfying to have long-term relationships with patients,” Dr. Gunnells reflects. “I’ve been a part of birth experiences and now enjoy watching my patient families mature.” Dr. Gunnells’ faith impacts how he interacts with his patients. “When you participate in the birthing experience, you are reminded daily of the creative process and divine involvement in that,” he says.

Gunnells group at farm — The Gunnells host Big Oak Ranch children at their farm every December. “Family wise- Christmas really starts for us with Big Oak weekend,” says Jeffrey Gunnells, M.D.

When Dr. Gunnells isn’t working, he likes to spend time on his farm in Marengo County- a place he and his wife enjoy sharing with others. For the past 19 years, they have hosted kids from Big Oak Ranch for an annual hunt the first weekend of December. “This past December we hosted 40 kids and 120 adults. The farm has also been the site for marriage retreats,” he says.

For more than 40 years, Henderson & Walton Women’s Center has been specializing in women’s health care. All the OB/GYN physicians, including Dr. Gunnells, are board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. For patient convenience, HWWC sees patients in Birmingham, Alabaster, Chelsea, Cullman, Rainbow City/Gadsden, Jasper, and Tuscaloosa. Dr. Gunnells sees patients at both the Birmingham and Gadsden locations. To learn more about Dr. Gunnells and the team of physicians and staff at Henderson & Walton Women’s Center, P.C., visit www.hwwc.net or call 205-930-1800.

-Melissa Armstrong

January 12, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Mission Makers

He calls for help but there is no room and the waiting list is long. In an average year Brother Bryan Mission(BBM), the oldest mission in Birmingham, receives 39 applications a month for a spot in its New Life Fellowship(NLF) recovery and job readiness program. Only nine will find an opening. Since 2012, when BBM began the NLF Program, the demand from those looking for hope has been constant and oftentimes overwhelming.

Daniel was one who needed help. Living under a highway bridge, Daniel came to BBM desiring a meal. While eating Daniel saw something in the lives of the men in the NLF Program that he wanted. “It was the look of hope,” he said. Daniel was accepted into the program and soon found a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. As he continued, he obtained a G.E.D., began college, and served a ministry internship. After graduating the program, Daniel was hired as BBM’s Intake Coordinator and recently left to start his own construction company. “I do not know where I would be without Brother Bryan Mission… I am so grateful for what God has and is doing in my life and in the lives of those who come to BBM looking for hope,” Daniel says.

BBM saw an opportunity to expand its ministry and increase its bed count from its present 76 to over 100 beds by purchasing the vacant building at 1628 2^nd Avenue North. The two-story, 10,000 square feet building will allow for an additional 28 beds and offer more space to carry out its programming designed to change men’s lives. Drawings have been completed, zoning approval granted, and permits issued to occupy the 2^nd Floor where the additional beds will be housed. The price for this phase is $1.2 million. “The current construction climate has increased costs significantly,” Executive Director Jim Etheredge says, adding, “but when I think of the lives that will be changed and the families that will be restored, I think it is worth it.” To find out how you can help with this project, call 205-322-0092 or visit www.bbmission.com. †

January 12, 2022January 12, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Special Feature

Sav-A-Life, Inc. relies on the service and commitment of volunteers to carry out their important work of supporting women with unplanned pregnancies choose life for the baby through free ultrasounds, prenatal assessments, parenting classes and more. They utilize volunteers in every aspect of its ministry. At least 45 volunteers are needed per week to serve. Both men and women serve at their Vestavia and Fultondale, Ala service centers. Volunteers are also needed on a more flexible schedule to assist with special events and projects. All volunteers need a heart to show Jesus’ love to clients through their service.

Service Center Roles. There is a wide range of volunteer opportunities including Service Center Roles. Volunteers in these roles will receive training and need to commit to at least one 3-4 hour shift every other week.

1. Crisis Advocates provide medically accurate information, encouragement, and support to male and female clients facing an unplanned pregnancy or who need STD testing. Must have a desire to share the Gospel.

2. Mentors offer ongoing education on parenting and relationship topics and guide clients through the Earn While You Learn program.

3. Receptionists greet clients, set up intake documents and client files, schedule appointments, route phone calls, and help the Advocates and Clinic staff keep clients moving through their appointments seamlessly.

4. Medical Professionals: Doctors, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses, Lab Technicians, Sonographers, and Medical Assistants provide prenatal and STI care by appointment.

Other roles include Spanish translators, baby boutique workers, education coaches, church liaisons, prayer team members, committee and advisory board members, baby shower hosts, and class sponsors. Volunteers can also help with a variety of roles for our major fundraising events, the Spring Celebration and the fall Golf Invitational as well as events like an Easter egg hunt and Trunk or Treat for client families. You can also volunteer for collection drives where supporters often organize drives to provide much-needed items like diapers, wipes, bath items, onesies, pacifiers, etc.

Both Vestavia and Fultondale centers have ongoing lists of chores that need to be done, and appreciate help getting caught up! Service opportunities might include: Sorting clothing and diapers for the Baby Boutique; filling welcome baskets for new moms and dads (diapers, wipes, receiving blankets, bath items, a devotion book, notes of encouragement); groundskeeping tasks like mulching, pressure washing, weeding, spring or fall planting, trimming shrubs, etc. and building maintenance like deep cleaning, building shelves, and touch-up painting.

If you have a passion to help men and women and serve your local community, Sav-a-Life would love to help you find the role that fits your gifts! To give you an inside look at the rewards of volunteering, read here. Learn more at www.savalife.org. †

March 29, 2022January 8, 2022 by Laurie Stroud

Thank You Readers!

As a thank you to our readers, Birmingham Christian Family is excited to kick off Reader Rewards! Check back here frequently for exclusive giveaways, coupons, and more!

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December 29, 2021December 29, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

Here’s to your Health

People often ask me how they can take control of their health in order to walk in freedom to what God has called them to do. I put together some practical ways to show you what taking ownership looks like in your health.

Here are a couple of symptoms of NOT taking ownership:
• Saying that our health is a priority, but our bank account, schedule, and focus prove otherwise.

• Not being able to do the things that God has called us to fully.

• Making excuses on how all of the external things in our life have determined our health, rather than OUR CHOICES.

• Not having PREDICTABILITY and CONTROL in our results and progress.

• Waiting until everything is “perfect” to start making changes. (There is no perfect season.)

• Doing a bunch of “diet” research on the first page of google because we feel guilty about how we ate over the weekend.

• ONLY getting free tips and tricks from people on social media.

• Thinking that just because we don’t have any health issues we don’t really need to be proactive.

Here are some examples of taking full ownership of your health:
• We are able to FULLY do what God has called us to do in every season.

• Our bank account and schedule clearly reflect that we make our health a priority. Anyone could take a look without even knowing us and see that clearly. (Where our treasure is there our heart will be also).

• We feel in full control of our progress and results because we have proven frameworks that work long term. There is no more confusion and discouragement.

• We take imperfect action and slowly progress toward our goals even through tough seasons.

• We lead our family and set a good example in our health. Our family feels at peace and doesn’t have to worry about us.

WE GET HELP. Instead of trying to do our own research and go in alone, we allow someone we trust to give us a proven system AND keep us accountable to that system.

We are PROACTIVE, instead of being reactive. When things come up, we look to what we want our health to look like in the future and structure our actions to help us get there.

We don’t just focus on “Getting by” in our health. We are intentional; at being excellent and using our health as one of the greatest assets we have. Take some time to reflect today. Which one of these areas do you need to change to start taking full ownership in the way you steward your body?

— Ashton Tate, Founder, Glory to Glory Fitness, 615-488-8203

December 28, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

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Parenting Points

Serving as a family is an activity that can both show the power of the gospel through your family and remind you of the sacrifice of Jesus as the Servant who suffered. Taking time to serve is so simple, yet we often miss opportunities around us to serve because we don’t take time to understand what great things God could do in and through our families when we serve.

Serving others reflects the Gospel. Serving others stands at the heart of the message of the gospel. As people who follow Jesus, we should be people who are willing to serve others and love them as we follow a Savior who came to serve us by going to the cross for our sin. Our service reflects the heart of Jesus who came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45 ESV).

Serving others reorients our priorities. Through service, your family is also invited to put their needs to the side to serve and care for others. For people who so easily get consumed by our own needs and wants, it is good for us to be reminded of how Jesus and His kingdom defines greatness: “the greatest among you shall be your servant” (Matthew 23:11 ESV). Serving realigns your family to kingdom priorities.

Serving others allows us to discover and use our gifts. By using our gifts and talents to serve others, we determine what gifts, talents, and passions God has given us and the Holy Spirit has empowered us with. As we use our gifts, we are “good stewards of God’s varied grace” as we “serve by the strength that God supplies” (1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV). God gives us strength and shows us that we can be His hands and feet to serve others in the world.

Serving others displays the glory of God. When we see God’s work in our own gifts being given to serve others, we can only point the credit to the One who truly deserves it. We serve “in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 4:11 ESV).

As you begin the new year as a family, take time to be intentional to plan time to serve others as a family. You will be amazed at how your service displays the gospel, changes your perspective, leads you to discover your gifts, and brings glory to God.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Missions Minister at Christ Church Birmingham

Writer and Speaker

www.benbirdsong.com

Living as a Beloved Child

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