S E P T E M B E R 2 0 11

a letter from

Chatter

blocks at his closet door. I asked Drew (at 7 a.m.) why wont he use the potty? He said nothing at all, and then did it in his pants a second time out of spite. All this before lunch.

why he is so testy, but I am grateful for the opportunity to use the word testy. Well, maybe I do have a small idea. He is, at this very moment, applying tint to our sunroom windows on a day when its 115 degrees in the shade and mosquitoes are turning in their man cards because even they cant bear it. This man is from a company purported to have the best customer service in the business which Im coming to doubt given that his earlier counterparts flummoxed the Internet connection and downed our phone line when installing radiant barrier in our attic. All this after leaving a misting of dust, asbestos, hate and demons in the hallway for me to vacuum up. (Perhaps this man is not the only one with a bad attitude around here. Mere conjecture.) I want to treat this man with kindness. I really do. Really. Theres the me I am right now, and the me I wish to be, and a great big chasm of frustration separating the two. I had asked him to please start his work in the babies rooms so they could go down for timely afternoon naps. He promptly started in the master bedroom. I asked how much longer it would take and he told me 10 minutes. That was 40 minutes ago. While were at it: I asked AT&T if they could please reinstate the Internet for optimum Facebook capabilities. They declined until Saturday. (Its Tuesday.) I asked Drew to please go back to bed. It was 6:15 a.m. He whined and threw

Right now there is a man with a bad attitude in my house. I dont know

Theres the me I am right now, and the me I wish to be. Sometimes I think if I could get out from under the cloud of mosquito frenzy, I could become faster at finding Jesus in my spirit. Im quick to acknowledge my trials are not gorillaweight, and Im grateful. No family tragedy (yet), no financial straights (yet), no bleak health diagnosis (yet) just the beleaguered life of a mommy who cant seem to hack it even in the 20th century where she has air conditioning, a sunroom, friends, freedom, Diet Coke and healthy kids. In his classic My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers writes, God does not give us overcoming life he gives us life as we overcome. The strain of life is what builds our strength. Are you asking God to give you life, liberty, and joy? He cannot, unless you are willing to accept the strain. Chambers is expounding on Jesus words in John 16:33 where he promises his disciples that in the world you will have tribulation. You will. Its just a fact tribulation, big and small. Tribulation, tragedy, and, surprisingly: tepid tedium. Am I willing to accept the mosquito clouds? To embrace the unsexiness of my run-of-the-mill angsts? I may not have a giant to slay today, but I do have a man applying a 3M product to my windows so Ill save 25% on my electric bill next month. And hes driving me nuts. Am I willing to have faith enough to take this moment seriously? Well see. He just walked in with the bill.

Editor Julie Rhodes Art Direction, Design & Goodness Josh Wiese, Dennis Cheatham, Lindsey Sobolik

Photography Trey Hill (We Continue On) Allen Thompson (We Continue On) David Farris (Back to School)

Editorial Assistance Annie Wood (Wild and Crazy God) Thoughts, comments, ideas? E-mail Chatter at chatter@irvingbible.org.

Irving Bible Church: a community on a journey.

Thanks for picking up Chatter. Chatter is a publication of Irving Bible Church in Irving, Texas.
Why are we here?
IBC is on a journey committed to growing in Christ, connecting in community and joining the mission. This commitment comes from Jesus words in the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:36-39) and Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20).

How do we do this?
Growing in Christ At the heart of the journey is the gospel of Jesus Christ, the story of the Son of God coming into our dark world to bring light, life, hope and transformation. The journey begins when we trust Christ, but it doesnt end there. Gods desire for each of us is for our hearts and lives to become more like the one who has saved us. (Ephesians 4:11-13) Connecting in Community The gospel story draws us into a community of people whose lives have been transformed by Jesus. This journey is not one that we undertake alone. We are designed to do life together as a community of Christ-followers. It is essential that we walk with one another on the journey. (John 13:34-35) Joining the Mission The gospel tells us that one day God will take all that is broken in this world and make it whole. Those of us who are on the journey together are called to be people who do what we can to make glimpses of that day show up in our day. We do this by telling the gospel story and demonstrating gospel-shaped love to a needy world. (Matthew 28:18-20)

Contact IBC

Irving Bible Church | 2435 Kinwest Pkwy, Irving, TX 75063 | (972) 560-4600 Web irvingbible.org | Twitter @ibcvoice | Facebook irvingbible Sign up for the IBC eLetter, a weekly e-mail update for key ministry event information and announcements, along with a short devotional by Pastor Andy to encourage you on your journey week-to-week. Subscribe today at connect.irvingbible.org. New to IBC? Turn to page 22.

UPDATE: Back To School at IBC

On Wednesday August 17, hundreds of children and families participated in IBCs annual Back to School event, where over 140 volunteers (including kids, teens and small group teams) provided backpacks, gently used clothes, dental/medical exams, haircuts and school supplies to families in need. Children and Student Ministries put on a (slimy) show in the Commons, and free dinner was served. Some other highlights include: 800 backpacks with supplies given away 149 haircuts for kids 1,700 hotdogs served 35 makeovers for moms 25 dental/medical exams

Check out 2435 Kinwest Wednesday nights this fall for other community offerings like ESL, citizenship classes, computer literacy classes, career transition classes, and more. (2435kinwest.irvingbible.org)

10 Years 9/11 Later IBCers Remember

All the little things we thought were so important suddenly no longer mattered. It was September 11, 2001.
I remember exactly what I was doing. I was unemployed and sitting in front of my computer sending out resumes when an e-mail popped up from a friend of mine telling me to turn on the TV. I was shocked when I tuned in and saw the second plane hit the Twin Towers. It was almost as if time was suspended. We all remember what we were doing at that exact time ten years ago. Little did we know how the events of that day would change the rest of our lives. IBCer Steve Dilla remembers it well I was in college studying to be a pastor. We prayed for everyone in my early class that morning all we knew was one plane had hit. I was standing in a friends dorm room talking to my dad on the phone when the second tower fell. At some point I remember him saying, Things will never be the same after today. I had no idea how true that would be not only for all of us, but also for the direction of my life. Now, ten years later, I'm married, through seminary and wrapping up a pastoral residency. My wife, daughter and I are now preparing to move to Manhattan to plant a church, and things are not the same as I imagined them being when I was in college dreaming about this day. Our country is different in so many ways too, but as a follower of Jesus I know our story does not end in tragedy. Central to what it means to follow Jesus is the idea that he is restoring all things. Although all creation groans, we see in Scripture that God always hears the cry. He is living, he is active, he is healing, and he is renewing all things. Gordon Rhodes was working in NYC that day I am walking down 57th street toward the CBS studios thinking how lucky I am. Here I am, a kid from Fort Worth now working for a syndicated daytime talk show in the Big Apple. Fast forward two hours: Im in the CBS basement getting tapes ready for recording when a guy runs in and says, Hey, some idiot just ran his plane into the World Trade Center. As I watch, I see the second plane hit and know that this was no accident. Panic ensues. My director and producers run out of the control room to get out of town as most of them lived outside the city. In the

Where were you on 9/11?

Chatter Asked:

I was on my way to work in Addison and couldnt believe it! I am from NY and several family members and old friends live in the NYC area, including a few cousins who were police officers and fire fighters at the time. Tammy I remember it was the first day of the Womens Bible Study for that year. We knew there were ladies with husbands who were pilots, and they did not know if their husbands were involved or not.
michelle

I came to Christ 12 hours after the terrorist attacks. Tony I was traveling for work and was due to get on a plane that day to the next city in my trip. I ended up stranded for the week while air traffic was halted before I could finally get home four days later. luke

I was in a 5th grade classroom with a student with special needs. We were watching the news for our Social Studies lesson. When the plane struck the tower, we thought at first it was an accident. Not Tommy. He yelled out, terrorist! Diana I was 6 months pregnant and had an 8-year-old at school. I watched in horror and disbelief as the second plane hit. My heart sank. Tosha

control room, I call my mom back in Texas to let her know that I am not in downtown and to not worry. (The Pentagon is hit!) As I get back up to my production office across the street on the 10th floor, I see smoke to my south. A friend tells me her friend works in the World Trade Center. His cell phone goes straight to voicemail. As the days went on, I was so angry that people would do this. Absolutely senseless! But then something happened: I saw love. Love, when a group holding candles asked me to sing with them on the corner of 57th and Broadway; love when the President teared up on TV; love when Mayor Giuliani and the firefighters came to the main stage of Saturday Night Live to show unity. What I saw in that rough city post-9/11 showed me that out of evil, love can triumphand does. 9/11 was a huge stepping-stone in my faith journey because I saw God in post-9/11 New York City. Closer to home, Michael Elliott remembers how he first heard the news... We were living in Fort Worth when the September 11 attacks occurred. Even to this day it still seems so surreal. At the time, I was President of our Sunday school class. That Sunday, September 16, I brought a full-size American Flag to our Sunday school class and we placed it on the wall. We all gathered in a circle and prayed for the victims, the families and our country. I have in my Bible today the printed prayer text that I led our class with that day. It has not left my Bible in 10 years. That day is etched in our minds forever. And imagine being a college freshman, like Chelsea Burleson, away from home for the first time... I was in Collins dorm at Baylor. My roommate and I didnt have a TV in our dorm, but we heard all kinds of commotion, and very quickly, a friends tiny room was filled as we watched the footage of the planes hitting the buildings. Most classes were canceled, but I found out that my English class wasnt. To be honest, I was upset, but I shuffled across campus to my class that morning anyway. My professor, I will now confess, was a genius. She only had us come into class so that we could write down exactly how we were feeling that morning. As soon as we turned it in, she dismissed us. At the end of the semester, she had us read what we had written four months before. Wow! That was a powerful, emotional day for many of us young college kids. IBC staffer Karen Black has been a long-time lover of New York City Watching the second tower fall was one of the sickest moments of my life. I remember staring at the skyline and thinking theyre gone. They are totally gone. Memories flooded back: the famous scene of the high wire walker that danced in the sky between the two towers back in the 70s; the bomb going off

in the below-ground parking garage; how I would take the subway down to the Trade Center to get discount Broadway tickets at the TKTS booth. I recognized many of the buildings and churches in the area that were now covered in dust inches thick. As the next few days passed, I continued to cry at the images on the news and cheer the firefighters and police. My sister and I began to plan a trip to honor the city we loved so much, and three weeks later we were there. In a NYC Starbucks we asked a young man in line in front of us simply, Where were you? He had been on the Staten Island ferry headed into work when the first plane hit. He had gone up top to see what had happened and was still on the ferry deck when the second plane hit. The shock and sorrow in his face were still obvious, but he told us, There was a feeling of patriotism and unity that I have never felt or seen at any other time. Many people shared that feeling of unity, especially IBCer Michael Karpf, who was working for American Airlines at the time I was working for AA in the reservations office south of DFW Airport. My sister was in Switzerland traveling and I decided to fly to Zurich to surprise her. We talked about spending another day in Zurich but she was tired and one of her friends (a flight attendant) had traded trips to work the flight from Zurich to Dallas, so we took it. We got the last two seats. It was September 10, 2001. I was off work the next day. I slept in and silenced my phone. When I got up, there were several messages from my sister telling me to turn on the TV: airplanes had hit the Twin Towers. One of them was an American Airlines flight. I watched the drama unfold. Like many others, I was shocked beyond words. Because I was on the Customer Assistance and Relief Effort (CARE) team at American Airlines, I went into work the next day to help those who had lost loved ones. I was glad I could help, but it was the most emotionally draining time of my life. As we look back on September 11, we need to remember we live in a world that is tainted with sin. But it is also a reminder of who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and one day he will come and bring about justice. Thanks, IBC, for sharing your stories. As we look back in remembrance and prayer, Im reminded of a verse from Matthew 11:28: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Peggy Norton recommends The Legacy Letters: Messages of Life and Hope from 9/11 Family Members by Tuesdays Children (in partnership with Brian Curtis).

I was a freshman at Baylor University. I walked into the cafeteria just in time to see the second plane hit. I was immediately concerned for all the friends and family I had in NY and D.C. marcus As I drove to work, there were cars pulled over all along the interstate as people listened to their radios. When I got to work, my officemate and I spent the rest of the day watching, crying, and praying.
BernaDeTTe

I had been laid off from a six-figure job just six days before. Instantly, my personal problems seemed so insignificant.
ken

I was on my way to Womens Bible Study at IBC. We chose to keep calm and carry on. JaneT I was still living in L.A. and was just waking up when it happened. I had to go to work that day and I remember crying during the commute. chrisTina

I was teaching an elementary music class. The principal called me out of the room to notify me the country had been attacked. She instructed me to not mention anything to the children, but to let the parents handle the matter however they chose. Dominic

I had a prophetic dream early that morning. It was a man in a turban laughing at me, eating my precious jewelry. I asked him why he would destroy something I love. He just laughed. A month later I was laid off, as were many others. koralyn

We Continue On Pastor Andy Remembers 9/11

Poor Elizabeth. My third daughter was born on September 11, 1983, and for her first 17 years, that was a perfectly fine birth date to celebrate. Then came 2001 and the tenor of the whole world, not just her birth date, changed. Ill never forget that morning. Wed celebrated Liz birthday breakfast according to family tradition and then I was off to a doctors appointment, listening to sports radios predictions about the Cowboys season. When I came out of that appointment, the radio across all dials was about a surreal ongoing tragedy involving planes flying intentionally into the World Trade Center in New York City. I got home just in time to see the second tower fall on national TV. Happy birthday little girl. I just hope we can ever make 9/11 about your arrival to our family again.

Five days later I spoke these words to IBC: In the wake of the terrorist attack our nation endured last Tuesday, our hearts are broken. As we view scenes of carnage and desolate destruction, our anger is kindled. As we see the faces of loved ones lost and the tearstreaked faces of newly fatherless and motherless children, our doubts multiply. Lets just be honest in the house of God today: when such tragedy strikes, our anger and doubt and fear demand to know where is God? Why did he let this happen? And what will happen to us? I read those emotion-packed words ten years later and realize that they came from a heart that had been rudely shocked out of complacence into a renewed sense of vigilance. For years I had preached the biblical concept of evil and its ongoing spiritual battle with good. But did it really impact life in this world? Of course Id seen that it had in history as well as in present-time atrocities in war and famine and disease around the globe. But even that was out there and not here, in America, where our geographical borders and military might had kept us safe from the evil that only happened other places, not here. 9/11 exposed that fallacy. Wake up and smell the cordite, Andy. Evil exists, this is not Kindergarten, and America is at war. But outrage at evil was not the only emotion that came home to me in those early post9/11 days. The other was gratefulness for grace. The magnification of evil in that terrorist attack also magnified to me the purpose and power of Christs sacrifice for the sins of the world. In the darkness of vicious terrorism I saw most clearly the glory of the gospel and understood true hope. And I also spoke these words to IBC ten years ago: Hope that is seen is not hope. Hope isnt wishful thinking; its clearheaded choosing to walk in faith. Its seeing the evil and the good, and trusting that good will prevail. Yes, we saw raw evil this week in the terrorist attacks. But did we not also see incredible good? Folks on United #93 giving their lives to keep that plane from crashing into yet another building? Firefighters and policemen giving their lives so that others could escape the buildings collapse? Friends in doomed offices choosing to die calmly rather than to leave one another alone? Rescuers working around the clock with the support of millions sending blood and money and food and prayers? And so we continue on. Two wars and thousands dead and billions spent and still we have to take off our shoes to board an airplane. But Seal Team 6 introduced Bin Laden to his new berth in Hell and the Taliban is on the run in Pakistan. Light and darkness are still going at it, and it is faith that sustains us. (Sorrow looks back. Worry looks around. Faith looks up.) I pray that someday wars will cease and that 9/11 can be a little girls birthday again. But until that day comes, we continue on by faith, in hope, and with gratitude to the gracious God who makes it possible for us to do so. (And to the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces: God bless and protect you!) Amen.

Where were you on 9/11?

(continued from page 5) I first heard the news over the radio in my car. I thought it was a small private plane. But when news came that the second tower was hit, I was in a daze. It brought back emotions I felt when, as a young boy, I heard about the assassination of President Kennedy. anDreW

I was feeding my 18-month-old breakfast and preparing to head out the door to IBC Womens Bible Study when my husband called and said to turn on the TV. I vividly remember Pastor Andy coming into the study and reading Ps.27. angela I was waking up and getting ready to fly back to DFW from Seattle. We thought our flight might be delayed a few hours or even a day, but my wife and I got to spend four extra days with her family. mark

My brother called from his office because he didnt have access to a TV. He asked me to tell him everything that was happening on the screen. I had to find words when I felt so speechless. summer I was getting out of my truck in Downtown Dallas as the news of the first plane hit the airwaves. No one knew what it was. I got upstairs to the 51st floor of the Bank of America Plaza just in time to see the second one live on TV. mike

I was living in NYC and working downtown. I was running late for work that morning and was still in the subway when a man told everyone about the first plane hitting. At first everyone dismissed him as crazy. We realized he was telling the truth when he showed us a video of the burning World Trade Center. gina

War. Cruelty. Tyranny. Oppression. Is the Gospel silent in the face of the unspeakable? Relevant in the unfathomable? Join us Sundays in September as the IBC Teaching Team explores the hope of Isaiah 58.

A WILd And CRAzY God:

IBC Goes to HAItI
The Lord recently provided a unique opportunity for IBC to minister to nearly 200 adults and children during a four-day Vacation Bible School in Pignon, Haiti. Although the 16 volunteers encountered a few minor bumps in the road along the way, they shared Gods love with the Haitian people and experienced Gods great provision, making the July 15-23 trip a memorable success. When the IBC ministry team arrived in Pignon, team members prayed over every corner of the campsite in preparation for the arrival of the children the following day. Every morning before the team began its ministry, members gathered to read scriptures, pray and work through The Hole in Our Gospel devotional. On the first day, the team taught the children that God loves us that he is wild and crazy about us! Working in conjunction with a group predominantly from Canada, the IBC team spent time on the teaching portion of the VBS while the Canadian team led art projects for the children. Despite a few unplanned events lost luggage, a cactus incident and sudden changes to the schedule the ministry team kept their eyes on God and his plan for their mission. As Christians, we may not always know or completely understand the plan God has for our lives, but we rest assured that his plan is perfect and all things happen according to his will, said IBCs International Initiatives Pastor Dieula Previlon, who is also a Haiti native. As Isaiah 55:8-9 says, Indeed, my plans are not like your plans, and my deeds are not like your deeds, for just as the sky is higher than the earth, so my deeds are superior to your deeds and my plans superior to your plans. We witnessed the powerful hands of God throughout this journey, leading us and guiding us no matter the circumstances. We learned to surrender all to him, to allow him to truly work though us, said Dieula. Although this is what Christ calls us to do, sometimes its hard to give up control and that makes it harder to see God work in supernatural ways. The team came together one evening in prayer and sang a song they had recently taught the children: I will praise you oh Lord with all my soul; with all my soul I will praise you oh Lord praise with my mouth, praise with my life in everything I do I will praise you, oh Lord. I dont know who was praying for us, but the Holy Spirit was indeed present as we ministered to and shared Gods love with these precious people, said Dieula.
UNITED STATES

Gulf of Mexico

CUBA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Pignon

HAITI
MEXICO Port-au-Prince JAMAICA PUERTO RICO

Caribbean Sea

Chatter | 8

Steve Martins 1978 comedy album A Wild and Crazy Guy went double platinum and reached number two on Billboards Pop Albums Chart.

In its 200-year history, Haiti has suffered 32 military coups.

From Dancing to Determination: How Barbara Raised The Bar

IBC partners with several local and international organizations to help bring the restoration of the gospel to hurting people worldwide. For several years, IBC has been a partner of New Friends New Life, a Dallas organization committed to helping women leave sexually oriented businesses. Barbara had known about New Friends New Life for at least seven or eight months. Another dancer at the club had given her their phone number. But Barbara hadnt called. She wasnt ready. At least, not until I had solicited an undercover police officer, Barbara says. That was my last day dancing. August 28, 2007. In September, she came to her first Wednesday night meeting a little nervous. She knew the New Friends New Life program would be hard. Building a new life independent of the sex industry would demand self-discipline, determination, and commitment, especially if she was going to adhere to NFNLs method. But she was ready. Barbara had already put together a resume and gotten leads on conventional jobs. She hadnt danced in weeks. New Friends New Life offered a little something more, something that would change her life and her sons life. You dont trust people coming out of a business like this, Barbara says. You build this defense wall. But after enrolling in the program as a protg, coming to the Wednesday night Bible study and support group a weekly requirement for the NFNL program and working with her advocate, Irie, she began to let her wall come down. She was a mentor, more of a mother-type figure, Barbara says of Irie. She had that passion, willing to listen to whatever you had to talk about. She wasnt going to let you make a bad decision. Even then, the process was as she expected challenging. Going from more of a high-class, independent lifestyle to letting an organization help me take control of my life that was tough, Barbara says. As her advocate, Irie partnered with Barbara to help her meet the challenges of her lifestyle shift by helping her sort out her living situation, transition between jobs, keep track of her finances, and pay her bills (if necessary) by appropriating New Friends New Life funds. New Friends New Life also helped me trust and understand the word of God, Barbara says. Because NFNL is a faith-based organization, Wednesday night sessions include a Bible study component, which is designed to provide the program participants, or the protgs, with spiritual support and reassurance of Christs love for and acceptance of them. I knew about church, but I kind of lost it all living the lifestyle that I was living, Barbara says. While they dont force any kind of beliefs on you, Wednesday night sessions gave Barbara the confidence to visit different congregations, understand what she was looking for, and pick the church that was right for her. Perhaps even more importantly, Barbara had to learn to trust herself. I was pushed out a little too young, she says. Barbara graduated from high school a year early and entered the industry shortly thereafter. Because her older sister had been a dancer, Barbara was exposed to the industry early on and had always admired her sisters clothes and money. After graduation, when she was afraid of falling short of her family and friends high expectations of her, Barbara knew how she could create economic success. I was trying to be more of what other people wanted and expected me to be, rather than what I wanted to be, Barbara says. I went to school to be a nurse for a short spell, also majored in Criminal Justice, and didnt succeed. Since I was afraid I couldnt fulfill everyone elses expectations, at least I could go out there and make a lot of money and be independent. Since leaving the industry, however, Barbaras resourcefulness has served her well. Shes worked two different jobs in the time since, and is currently employed at a major Dallas corporation. What has made the biggest difference to Barbara, however, is not her own personal success. She sees the most value in what New Friends New Life has done for her son. I think the best thing was that my child got exposed to a Christian atmosphere. He started when he was five and he got used to going on Wednesdays. Hes nine now. It motivated me to keep doing what I was doing, because once you saw a difference in me, you saw a difference in him. After graduating from the NFNL program two years ago, Barbara is now engaged to be married and is a protg leader for New Friends New Life, acting as a mentor to women who are going through what she has already been through. Barbara says, It takes a lot to get out there and tell your story . You dont know whos listening to you. Youre still a little hurt from your past. And every time I talk, something new comes out that I had forgotten about. Thats dangerous right there. But Barbara was ready to speak, to share her story with the women who need to hear it most, the ones who are still in the process of leaving the sex industry. Barbara shines as an example of a strong woman who decided to change her lifestyle, and who did it independently, but not by herself. And that is what the New Friends New Life program community, family is all about.

Mary Murphy loves to play Chopin on the piano, Taylor Swift on the guitar, and Texas country on the radio. To learn more about New Friends New Life, visit newfriendsnewlife.org.

The seed for NFNL was planted in 1998 when women from the Preston Road Church of Christ were inspired by the plight of a former adult entertainer named Amy.

In 2010, New Friends New Life served approximately 300 women and children.

Chatter | 9

IBC Womens Bible Study

Psalms: Authentic Worship for Todays Women Begins September 13.

In my early years as a Christian when I struggled with depression, the psalms were my healing balm. They gave me permission to express and process my pain. They helped me recover and go on to enjoy God and serve him. Psalms is a unique volume in the library of Scripture. In other books God often speaks to us, but in the psalms we often speak to God. And we are speaking acceptably to God, even when our words seem unchristian. In the imprecatory psalms, the author pronounces curses on his enemies: Go get em, God. But God can take it. And in all but one of the psalms, the writer who calls down havoc on others ultimately moves toward faith and love. Simply because the psalms are part of the canon, we have permission to be open and honest about our doubts, struggles, and fears. Light heals. But the psalms are not just for down times. Today, faithful believers all over the world will open their Bibles to the psalms and some will burst into song or prayer. They will sing with others or pray alone. Today in a hospital, at this very hour, someone is whispering into the ear of a dying loved one or faithful friend, The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want... (Psalm 23, KJV) Somewhere a woman is curled up in a large stuffed chair, tears staining her Bible as she reads, I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my foot upon a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. (Psalm 40) Are they tears of joy or tears of sorrow? They could be either. Someone experiences forgiveness or sees their newborn for the first time, and the psalms give wings to their worship as they express their gratitude to God. Someone has just learned they have cancer or that someone they love has pre-

ceded them in death. And almost instinctively, as one who is drowning grasps for a lifeline, the Christian reaches for the psalms. The psalms were the songbook of the Temple. David, Isaiah, and Jeremiah sang them. Military leaders in the Old Testament celebrated their victories with psalms. At Passover, Jesus sang psalms with his family and later with his disciples. Paul exhorted the Christians at Ephesus and Colossae to teach and admonish one another...with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs... (Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:19). When we pray or sing the psalms, we sense the oneness of the Church. And the psalms will be the songbook of heaven. One day we will gather with the saints of the ages and sing psalms together as we praise our majestic God. What a glorious day that will be! What an incentive to study them, sing them, pray them, and love them. Thats just what women of IBC will be doing this fall when we join together on Tuesday mornings and evenings to study the psalms together. The purpose of our study will be to deepen our worship of Almighty God. Worship encompasses many aspects of the Christian lifesinging, praying, and serving. In essence, worship is responding to God because he alone is worthy. Worship can be private or within a community. Some of us raise our hands, sway, and bellow with gusto. Others of us close our eyes, sit in contemplation, sing softly, or kneel. God recognizes and enjoys a variety of forms. However, true worship requires that our heart is engaged and our senses are focused on God. Roadblocks to worship distance our hearts from God. Typical roadblocks to worship are discouragement, fear, ignorance, a refusal to deal with sin, distractions, and harboring an unforgiving spirit. Each lesson in our fall study will tackle one of these roadblocks to help us overcome hindrances to authentic, unbridled worship. So join us. We will accept you, love you, and learn from you, as we discover the treasure of the psalms together. Sue Edwards first job was delivering newspapers on her bike in Rhodes, Greece.

authentic WorshiP for todays Women

A 10-week Bible study for women Tuesdays beginning September 13 9:30-11:30 a.m. OR 6:30-8:30 p.m. KidZone for babies through preschool is available. Zone 6:30 (Bible study) for elementary children is also available. Register today at women.irvingbible.org.

Psalms:

Nancy is the middle child and at age 10 was the most diligent piano practicer in her class.

nancy pierce ministry participant & volunteer

IBC & HUmAn TrAffICkIng

Fasting for Freedom
Over the past two years, IBC has been committed to responding to the tragedy of human trafficking by working with our partners on strategic initiatives related to awareness, prevention and response. During the weekend of september 23-25, iBc will be joining other christians from all over the world in observing the 6th Annual International Weekend of Prayer and Fasting for the Victims of Sexual Trafficking. As part of our observance of this special weekend, were asking the people of IBC to consider participating in Fasting for Freedom. In the ancient church, fasting was not only an important way the early Christians brought their impassioned prayers before God, but also was an immensely practical way that they helped the poor and vulnerable members of their community. Christians would give up what was theirs to provide for another. They would skip a meal (or meals) and give the food or the money that they saved to those in need. The cumulative effect of their individual efforts made a world of difference for the desperate ones in their midst. IBCs Fasting for Freedom is a modern expression of this ancient practice. Were asking that you consider giving up something that is a normal part of your life (something like a meal or a number of meals, your weekly overpriced latte, or that daily Diet Coke youve been trying to give up anyway). IBC is working with local and international partners to respond to the epidemic of human trafficking and the commercial sexual exploitation of women and children. The funds that IBC gives go to help our partner organizations develop a new resource center for women trying to get out of the sex industry enhance and expand prevention efforts oriented toward at-risk children expand facilities designed to provide aftercare for women rescued from sex slavery increase opportunities to train aftercare providers for victims of human trafficking You can engage in your own personal Fasting for Freedom anytime before September 25 to help bring justice and healing to those who have been trapped and exploited. This concentrated time with God will allow us to petition the Father on their behalf. We will be collectively breaking our fast during a luncheon after the 10:45 a.m. service on September 25. If you would like to explore what our local and international partners are doing to bring justice and healing to the sexually exploited, please join us at 12:45 p.m. on this awareness Sunday. RSVP to traffick@irvingbible.org so we can get an accurate food count.

A Human Trafficking Prayer Guide

Scripture Reading: Psalm 72:4-5, 12-14

May he defend the afflicted among the people and save the children of the needy; may he crush the oppressor. May he endure as long as the sun, as long as the moon, through all generations. For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.
Today is a day of prayer for the victims of human trafficking.

Pray for the safety of those who are trapped in the bonds of slavery. Pray that God would be near to them in their suffering and bring them comfort and provision. Pray that God would hear their cries and liberate them from the hands of their oppressors. Pray that God would set them on a path toward restoration and healing. O God, our words cannot express what our minds can barely comprehend (and what our hearts feel) when we hear of women and children deceived and transported to unknown places for purposes of sexual exploitation and abuse because of human greed. Our hearts are saddened and our spirits angry that their dignity and rights are being transgressed through threats, deception, and force. We cry out against the degrading practice of trafficking and pray for it to end. Strengthen the fragile-spirited and broken-hearted. Make real your promises to fill these women and children with a love that is tender and good, and send the exploiters away emptyhanded. Give us the wisdom and courage to stand in solidarity with them, that together we will find ways to the freedom that is your gift to all of us. In Christs name, Amen.
Adapted from a prayer composed by Sister Gen Cassani, School Sisters of Notre Dame.

For more guided reading and prayers on the behalf of trafficking victims, please visit trafficking.irvingbible.org.

You. Thats who.

This is what happens when IBCers get their hands on giant sunglasses, faux-snakeskin hats, feather boas and a little time in the spotlight. (No good can come of it, really. But now its too late.)

Why you need friends who are older and younger than you
Lets face it. When youre young, you think youve got it all good looks, fast metabolism, a sense of invincibility, the world at your fingertips. They sold us the lie that with hard work and the right connections, You can be whoever you want to be, and we bought it. So you graduate high school, maybe college, travel the world, choose a promising career, and find a mate with whom to procreate and pass on your remarkable genes. Then at some point, you fall flat on your face. (If you havent yet, dont worry, you will.) Wait, what? Life is hard?! No one told us that! Youre right. We werent fairly warned. But really, would we have listened? Probably not. So back to you on your face. The way I see it, you have three options. One, deny your face hurts, even try to make it cozy down there. Two, fill your schedule to overflowing so youre too busy to notice the pain. Or three, peel your face off the ground, look around for people who have been where you are (and won) and ask them for help. Scary, I know. Where do we even find these super saints with honest struggles and a willingness to share how God carried them through? Hint: gray hairs and smile lines are sometimes, not always, good indications. If you have no idea where to start, IBC hosts two events to encourage these intergenerational relationships: The Bridge for women, and Man Party for men. Both kick off this fall. As for me, I have been fortunate enough to have two older Christian women who have encouraged my faith and enriched my life.
Ashley (right) with her mother (center) and Tess (left).

The first one I borrowed. Tess, one of my moms best friends, directed the childrens ministry at my home church before she earned her Masters of Divinity and became a pastor. She saw God in the ordinary and took advantage of everyday opportunities to share what she learned. Emblazoned on my brain is the day she opened my eyes to Gods justice and advocacy for the poor at a family barbeque of all places! (Why not?) That experience shaped my current career as a social worker. Nowadays, Tess and I keep in touch through e-mail and Facebook. We see each other when I go home to California once or twice a year. I look forward to these times with my older sister in Christ discussing life and theology over tea. My second friend I sought out of desperation. A few months ago, my husband and I hit a wall in our marriage. When I shared our struggles with Jackie Roese, she knew exactly who to connect me with a sister sojourner who had experienced my same problems. Delisa and I met once for coffee. We told our stories, encouraged each other, cried, shared favorite scriptures for renewing our minds and honoring our husbands. We gave each other hope. Now, Delisa and I mostly text. We let each other know were praying and remind one another that God is good and faithful. This is modern-day discipleship, powered by technology.

Women of all ages. All stages. Together at last. September 29 6:30 8:30 p.m. Irving Bible Church Speakers: Krista Murry and Becca Richardson Cost $8. RSVP to thebridge@irvingbible.org.

Call it friendship, mentoring, discipleship, or simply the body of Christ. Call it a village; it takes one for us all! But to have this we must be honest about our struggles and ask for, receive, and offer help to one another. I think thats what Paul meant by his metaphor the body of Christ people coming together to lift each other up in the name of Jesus. But I could be wrong. I dont have all the answers, after all. Ashley Hinton is a hospice social worker and a 20-something whos looking forward to having white hair someday. Forget gray. White = instant credibility.

Chatter | 14

Julia Roberts played Tess Ocean in Oceans 11. At the end of the credits there is a line that says, Introducing Julia Roberts an inside joke by the crew.

Did-erot locke the voltaire? Montesquieu-se me, Im newton sure.

The Arkadiko Bridge in Greece (13th century B.C.) is one of the oldest arch bridges in existence.

Splish Splash!

Two ministries make waves at IBCs Splash Night

IBCs Single Parent Ministry (Kids Night Out) and Respite Care Ministry partnered up for the annual Splash Night event on Saturday, July 23. Kids from both ministries had a blast playing in the water in the pools and outdoor shower, on the double slip n slide and going down the huge Blue Crush Slide. The weather kicked in at 103 degrees perfect for cooling off in multi-water activities. Kids gulped cases of bottled water and fruit drinks, gobbled hot dogs, and downed popsicles for one last chance to chill. Special thanks to the forty-plus incredible teen and adult volunteers who made it happen!

Need a (moNey) coach iN your corNer?

September 17 9 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. IBC (West A & C)

Join the IBC Financial Coaching team for four 90-minute interactive workshops and get practical ideas for simple changes to your money routine.

BuDGETING 101 CREATING A FAMILY BuDGET (9 A.M.)

Do you ever run out of money before you run out of month? Weve all been there. Join Charlie and Julias workshop and learn how to boss your money around and have some left over at the end of the month.
MEAL MANIA (9 A.M.)

As a wife and mom to two busy toddlers, Mandy Foster is no stranger to the daily question of whats for dinner? and the challenges of feeding a busy family. With a background in culinary arts and mass quantity food production, she will give practical tips for preparing meals with greater efficiency so you can spend more time with your family.
BuDGETING 201 MAkE YouR BuDGET WoRk (10:40 A.M.)

Learn practical ways to ensure that your budget works for the long term.
TAkING CARE oF ToMoRRoW ToDAY (10:40 A.M.)

These are the conversations every Christian must have about last things this side of heaven: hospitalization, hospice, Durable Powers of Attorney, legacy giving, and planning for a Christian funeral. Bless your family for years to come with this practical, educational, and biblical insight. Sign up online at generous.irvingbible.org or at our kiosk in Town Square on September 4 and 11 before and after each service, or e-mail budgetcoaching@irvingbible.org.

THIS MoNTH
Bible Communities
Communities on Sunday
Theres always something new going on in Bible communities! Heres a taste of whats happening this month:
The Tree 9 a.m. West D Young marrieds and young families (20s and 30s). We will be studying the Holy Spirit and his role in our lives. Crossroads 10:45 a.m. High School Room Married Couples in their mid-20s and 30s. Join us as we spend five weeks contemplating the nature of God from the classic A.W. Tozer devotional Knowledge of the Holy. Journey 10:45 a.m. Middle School Room All Welcome. September and October: we will be discussing the Sunday sermon from the 9 a.m. service. on Track 10:45 a.m. West C For Single Parents. If you are a single parent or in a blended family, this class is perfect for you. Come join us for Bible study, fellowship and prayer. Renew 10:45 a.m. Training Center Multigenerational. September series: Restoring Freedom to Overcrowded Lives. Thrive 10:45 a.m. West D Singles in their 30s, 40s & 50s. Join us as we gain practical wisdom about the God-given gift of boundaries: how to take responsibility for and ownership of our lives. Legacy Builders 6:45 p.m. Zone Jr. 7 All Welcome. September series: the Old Testament book of Ezra. The Point 6:45 p.m. Alcove Singles early to late 20s. We will continue working in table groups with various topics. Each group discusses either a book, a book of the Bible, or a pre-selected topic.

Children

Infants Through 5th Grade

Respite Care Every fourth Saturday For families that have children with special needs. Contact Diana at dblessing@irvingbible.org. MyZone A mid-week event for kids thats great for bringing friends. Begins September 7. See ad, pg. 20. Zone 6:30 A weekly Bible study for kids. Begins September 13. See ad, pg. 21.

Grace for the Wounded A confidential small group ministry that explores the wounds weve received and the healing journey Gods prepared for us. Male and female groups offered. Classes start in September. Contact Bernadette at (678) 860-4575 or Paul at (214) 226-8234 or txsojourner@att.net. Shelter from the Storm Tuesday/Wednesday evenings A 16-week confidential small group study for women who have experienced the trauma of sexual abuse. For more information, contact Michelle Robinson at shelterfromthestormibc@gmail.org.

Seasoned Saints
For Folks Ages 55+
Potluck Lunch and Fellowship Sunday, September 18 Immediately following the second service in the Commons Annex adjoining the Haven.

Contact bgroezinger@verizon.net.

Single-Parent Family
Community and Resources
Girl Stuff Saturday, September 17, 9:30 a.m. Noon Alcove You are princesses of the King! For girls in single-parent families. A princess tea is included. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible. org to register. Salute to Heroes Night Saturday, September 10, 69 p.m. The Commons Honor our police officers, firefighters, and soldiers. Meet heroes up close and personal. Help make gift baskets for our local heroes. (Bring a treat like gum, candy, a magazine or Bible to donate.) Dinner included. Register at singleparents.irvingbible.org under KNO/Salute to Heroes Night. Sit with us on Sunday! Several single-parent families enjoy worshiping together in the 9 a.m. service. Come and join us in the lowest right-hand section, Rows 5 & 6, facing the stage.

Espaol

Bilingual Ministry
Traduccin del Servicio los Domingos Traduccin simultnea en el Servicio de las 5 p.m. Escuchnlo en la red: irvingbible.org. Se necesitan traductores. Sunday Service Translation Simultaneous translation available during the 5 p.m. service. Spanish Translations online. Estudio Biblico de Mujeres Martes 6:30 a 8:30 p.m. Acompaanos a estudiar y meditar en la palabra de Dios junto a otras mujeres. Womens Bible Study Tuesdays 6:308:30 p.m. Join us as we study Gods word with other women.

IBCMen

Ministry to Men
First Watch See ad pg. 21. First Watch Xtra Wednesdays in the Training Center, 6:30 a.m. Father Daughter Campout Oct. 21-23 at Possum Kingdom Lake. See ad pg. 21.

Visit men.irvingbible.org for info.

Local Partners

Reaching the Community

A Night of Comedy September 10, 7 p.m. Featuring The Worlds Funniest Guitar Virtuoso Mike Rayburn. All proceeds benefit Parenting Alone (assisting single-parent families in crisis). Purchase tickets at parentingalone.org. Laundry Love first Saturday of the month, 9 a.m.Noon Please join us as we provide free laundry cycles and detergent, strike up conversations and build relationships. For more info contact Amy at aglover7576@hotmail.com.

Hope and Healing

Community Care
Griefshare Tuesdays, 6:308 p.m. Conference Room We are a caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of lifes most difficult experiences. You dont have to walk the journey alone. Childcare is available but we need to know in advance. For info or to register, contact Sherri Sharp at ssharp@ irvingbible.org. DivorceCare Thursday, Sept. 8, 6:308 p.m. For info, visit divorcecare.irvingbible.org or see ad, pg. 19. Recovery at IBC Thursdays, 68:30 p.m. West Wing Youth Lounge Do you deal with perfectionism, pride, overeating, inappropriate anger or control? Recovery is confidential and all are welcome. Join us for a light meal at 6 p.m. for just $4.

For more information e-mail Marsha at mtribbett@irvingbible.org.

Small Groups
Community at IBC
Interested in joining a Small Group? Groups are currently in session and sign-ups will reopen in November. Contact Ryan Sanders with questions at rsanders@irvingbible.org.

For more info or to find out more about our other Bible communities, visit biblecommunities.irvingbible. org or call Jen at (972) 560-4655. Please visit page 22 for more Sunday Bible Communities.

Marriage

Student Ministries
Middle School Sundays MERGE AM Meets in the Alcove, 10:45 a.m.-12 p.m.

Growing Together
Marriage at IBC Sunday nights, 6:30-8 p.m. in West C/D A small group-based marriage series designed to help couples reconnect in the context of community. See ad, pg. 20.

Middle/High School and College

Life Groups meet in the Commons, 7-8 p.m.

Middle School Wednesdays The W Meets in the Student Ministry area, 6-8 p.m.

Chatter | 16

High School Sundays Life Groups Meet in the Student Ministry area, 7-8 p.m. High School Wednesdays SWAG - (Students Worship and Gathering) Meets in the Alcove, 7-8 p.m.

September 29 The Bridge kickoff Speakers: Krista Murry and Becca Richardson. From 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: $8. RSVP at thebridge@irvingbible.org. See ad, pg.14. For more info or to sign up, e-mail: youngadults@irvingbible.org.

community of IBC is always looking for new singers of all levels beginner or pro. Everyone is welcome and you can join at any time! No auditions necessary.
Baby Dedications on octobeer 2 It is always special during a worship service when parents dedicate their children to God and commit to raise them in a godly home while the IBC community promises to support their efforts.

Alpha Begins Sept. 14 A safe place to ask spiritual questions. See ad pg. 18. Financial Freedom at IBC (Crown/ FPu) Begins Sept. 14 See ad pg. 18. Budget Workshops Sept 17, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Topics include: meal planning, preparing for the future, and tips and tricks to saving money. See article, pg. 15. NICHE (North Irving Christian Home Educators) Thurs., Sept. 15, 79 p.m. the Commons Guest speaker and veteran homeschooling mother of 8, Heidi Sherman. Contact NICHE at texasniche.com. Reminder: childcare is not available through IBC for this meeting. IBC Crop Night Sept. 2, 510 p.m. Training Center Join us for scrapbooking fun. Just bring your pictures, albums, and tools and lets crop. For more information contact Nikki Heinemann at nikkiscraps@verizon.net. Budget Coaching Do you ever run out of money before you run out of month? Weve all been there. Sign up for a personal budget coach at mmcoach. org and learn practical stewardship skills. Hearing Assistance Hearing Assistance is available during all three worship services. You can stop by the Journey Lounge for instructions. New Arrivals Congratulations to the following families on the births of their children:

IBC serves a delicious meal each Wednesday and Sunday night for $3. Contact mconnor@irvingbible.org.

2435 kinwest

Wednesday Nights at IBC

ESL: English as a Second Language Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. AZ14 & 15 Beginning September 14. Do you want to learn English? Improve your English? Come practice all four skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. For more info, contact Corey at 2435esl@irvingbible.org. FREE Citizenship Class Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m. Beginning September 14. For those at least 18 years old who have been issued a Permanent Resident Card. Well guide you through the N-400 paperwork and prepare you for the main components of the new citizenship test. Contact Michael at 2435citizenship@irvingbible.org. New!: Computer Literacy Class Coming Sept. 14 We are now offering a hands-on class that will teach internet and Microsoft office basics, including how to navigate the Internet, social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.), and the basics of the Microsoft office programs (Word, Excel, etc). Please contact Charles at 2435computer@ irvingbible.org. IBC Career Transition Ministry Wednesdays, 6:308 p.m. Want to find a job? Come learn how to craft a rock-solid resume, use the Internet and LinkedIn to network, and ace the interview.

We

Ministry To Women
Psalms: Authentic Worship for Todays Women A 10-week Bible study for women. Tuesdays, beginning September 13. See article, pg. 10. Square one Thursdays, 10 a.m.12 p.m. AZ13 A place for first-time moms to connect with one another for support and encouragement. Babies attend with their moms (up to 6 months). Runs for 6-weeks. Starts August 25. Contact Sara at sarabeth2@me.com. Listen to My Life Do you wonder: What is God up to in my life? Who did he make me to be? What does he want for my future? Through visual life-mapping exercises and a small group environment, you will review your past, assess your present and see where God may be leading you in the future.

Our next baby dedication is October 2. Registration dates are Sept. 16-23. To register, visit registration. irvingbible.org. There are a limited number of dedications during each service, so if you have a preference of service times, please register early. Photos of children being dedicated should be sent to Donna OReilly at doreilly@irvingbible. org and received by Sept. 23. Hard copies are also acceptable. New Parent Orientation: Parents wishing to dedicate their babies may attend an orientation on Sept. 25 at 9 a.m. in the Sr. High room located in the West end of the building. The orientation is not mandatory but strongly encouraged. We will explore with you what it means to dedicate your child and answer questions about parenting issues and our childrens ministry at IBC.
Baptism Service Sunday, September 18 IBC will conduct two baptism celebrations for those who have committed their lives to Christ: one immediately following the 10:45 a.m. service and another in the evening after the 5 p.m. service. Online registration: closes Sept. 8 at registration.irvingbible.org.

Mondays 6:45-8:45 p.m., September 12-October 31, or Wednesdays 10 a.m.-Noon, September 14 November 2 Cost: $40 for materials. Space is limited. Please contact Debbie Smith to register at dls.56@hotmail. com. Scholarships available.

There is a mandatory class for those who wish to be baptized: Childrens class: Sunday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m. in the Training Center (located adjacent to The Tubes in the Town Square). A parent is required to attend with his or her child. Make-up class: 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 14. Middle School/High School class: Please contact Mary Ann Connor at (972) 560-4617 by Sept. 8 to schedule a meeting with the Middle School and/or High School Pastor. Adults class: Sunday, September 11 at 9 a.m. in the Sr. High Room. Make-up class: Wednesday, Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the Main Office Conference Room. Please contact Donna OReilly at (972) 560-4600 for more info.
First Annual IBC Car Show Sept 24, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. See ad pg. 19. Got a car to show? Register your vehicle at carshow. irvingbible.org.

Eric and Heather Waloski and their daughter Lauren Elizabeth, born June 30, 6 lbs 9 oz, 18 inches Stephen and Jaime Cain and their son Parker Sterling, born July 12, 8 lbs 9 oz, 21 inches Ryan and Melissa Fitzhugh and their son Jasper Ryan, born July 1, 8 lbs 2 oz, 19 inches

For more information, contact Anna Martinez at amartinez@irvingbible.org. Visit 2435kinwest.irvingbible.org for a list of other activities and ways to get involved.

Young Adults
20s and Early 30s

Miscellaneous

The Gathering September September 8, 15, 22 Career Series Led by Bill Hendricks and others. Move toward a good job fit by learning your unique design. 7 p.m. in the Alcove.

A Little Bit of Everything

In His Image Bible Study A small group for adults (18+) with special needs. If you know of someone who would benefit from this group, please contact Shannon Miller at a22shannon@gmail.com. See ad, pg. 18. Vox Humana Choir Wednesdays, 6:308:10 p.m. IBC Worship Center Begins in September. The choral

September 24 Career and Calling Career coach Bill Hendricks helps young professionals learn how they are uniquely gifted and how to effectively position themselves in their career. See ad, pg. 20.

Chatter | 17

Fettered or Free?
Our financial decisions either free us or bind us. They determine if we will Alpha is an opportunity to explore the meaning of life and the core of Christianity in a relaxed, friendly setting. Alpha is for all kinds of people the skeptics, the seekers, the spiritually curious who are searching out deep spiritual questions, clear direction for their spiritual journey, an opportunity to explore the meaning of life and a safe haven for all honest questions. Open House: Sept. 14, 67:30 in The Commons be a blessing to others or a burden free agents for all that God intends or players on the sidelines.

In His Image Bible Study

All of you together are Christs body, and each of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:27
In His Image is a Bible study and social group designed to help people of different ability levels grow in Christ and develop friendships. Who: Adults (18+) with special needs When: Each Wednesday, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Where: Irving Bible Church Volunteer opportunities available.

If you know someone who would benefit from this ministry or are interested in volunteering, please contact Shannon Miller at a22shannon@gmail. com or (469) 585-4578.

Financial Freedom at IBC

IBC is offering a two-part program combining key elements from the Crown Ministries and Financial Peace University (FPU) curriculums to give participants a broad, holistic approach to biblical money management. Topics include: getting out of debt, making investments, principles of saving and giving, and more. Whether you have $1 or $1,000,000, are in debt or sitting on substantial savings, you can take steps towards greater financial freedom this fall at IBC. Sept 25Nov 13 and Jan 8Apr 1 at 9 a.m. in the Training Center Register at crown.irvingbible.org. Cost: $115.

What theyre saying about Propel

Since taking Propel, I have become involved in several ministries already, and am constantly finding new and exciting avenues for using my talents and abilities. Taking the class was by far one of the best decisions Ive made both as an IBCer and a Christian, and through it, my relationship with God has been undoubtedly strengthened. Evan I miss Propel. Maybe it was the intimate, small group journey with fellow IBCers. Maybe it was having a definitive context for understanding what our Beloved Community is all about. I would strongly encourage every IBCer, no matter how long theyve been in the family, to go through Propel. Vennecia I would recommend that all members of IBC attend this class. I came away inspired to be a better witness for Christ, and learned so much about how I can use my gifts and talents to help bear fruit for Gods Kingdom. Renee

Still looking to find your place at IBC? Been here forever but cant seem to figure out what its all about and how you fit into the larger picture? Want to have free breakfast every Sunday for four weeks?

Propel is an experience designed to help you figure out how you can best plug into IBCs culture and calling. Well talk about what it means to grow in Christ, connect in community and join the mission and what that might look like for you.

Register: Four consecutive weeks starting September 11 at 10:45 a.m. in West A. Register at propel.irvingbible.org. And for more information contact Sherri at (972) 5604614 or ssharp@irvingbible.org. Space is limited. Register early so someone else doesnt get your bagel.

iBc car shoW

calling all car enthusiasts for the first annual iBc car show! September 24, 9 a.m.1 p.m. Admission is free.

Begins September 8, 6:30 p.m.

DivorceCare

Separation and divorce are two of the most painful, stressful experiences anyone will ever face. Its confusing. Isolating. There are questions lots of them. Questions youve never asked before. DivorceCare is a weekly support group designed to help you face these challenges and begin rebuilding your life. To register, visit divorcecare.irvingbible.org.

Hosted by IBCMen. If you have a car or know of one you would like to show, please contact kyeichner@irvingbible.org. All proceeds benefit New Friends New Life.

Frustrated at Work?

(You arent alone.)

with Bill Hendricks

Married? If you had to rate your

Career and Calling

Saturday, September 24 8:303:30 p.m. in West C & D Cost: $25

marriage on a scale of one to ten, where would it rate? Seriously. Think about it for a second.

Job fulfillment requires a good job fit. Join us as Bill Hendricks, President of The Giftedness Center, helps you discover your unique skills, giftedness, and work motivation to identify your good job fit and move beyond career to calling.
To sign up visit the kiosk in Town Square or e-mail youngadults@irvingbible.org.

Marriage at IBC is a collection of couples small groups working in community to strengthen their marriages and move towards oneness. Whether your marriage needs to be reignited or resurrected, Marriage at IBC is a safe place for you to reconnect with one another among friends. When: Sunday nights, 6:30-8 p.m. Where: IBC West C/D Weekly meetings include either a time of large group teaching, or a time where a couple shares their story of experiencing success in the midst of hard times. This is followed by a time of focused small group discussion. Visit marriage.irvingbible.org to register. KidZone is available.

MyZone is a place where friends introduce Jesus to others through fun activities, great friendships and in-depth conversations.
Who: Grades K5th Where: K2nd graders: the Zone 3rd5th graders: Zone Jr. When: Begins September 7 Wednesday nights, 6:308:30 p.m.

For more info visit myzone.irvingbible.org.

here hrist? W ey with C your jourur journ ntum in you in yo in mome t Watch. here are W to be? Ga s u like IBC at Fir would yo er 9 e men of g th Septemb y by joinin starting ., ne r 13 6:22 a.m eptembe rnings at starting S o 0 p.m., Friday m ings at 6:3 sday even Tue

Zone 6:30 A Bible Study for kids.

Zone 6:30 is a great way for your K5th grade child to grow deeper in their spiritual walk. This small-group Bible study will meet your child right where they are while providing a fun environment for growing in Christ and making new friends.
Who: K5th Grade When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Tuesday starting September 13 Where: The Zone Cost: $25 per child (covers the study guide, T-shirt, and various activities) Registration: visit zone630.irvingbible.org. For more info, contact Beth at bhorn@irvingbible.org.

Father/Daughter Campout October 2123

Hiking, Smores, Campfires Lake Murray, Oklahoma

Interested in Making a Difference? Zone 6:30 is now recruiting small group leaders. For more info, contact Beth Horn at bhorn@irvingbible.org.

Cost: $45 for dads and $25 for daughters

Registration: men.irvingbible.org (for girls up to 17 years old)

SuNDAY SCHEDuLE
First Worship Service: 9 a.m.
Childrens Classes (all ages) The Tree (young marrieds and families), West D Synergy (30s, 40s and 50s couples), Middle School Room

HoW Do I GIVE?
my Time, Talents & Skills
Childrens Ministry Opportunities Childrens Ministry is currently seeking men, women and students with a heart for Jesus and his kids to serve on a weekly basis for our Sunday ministries. There are openings for the fall in all age groups infants through fifth grade. No experience is necessary. Training is provided. Contact Gary Lindsay at glindsay@irvingbible.org or stop by the kiosk in the Town Square. MyZone and Zone 6:30 Help children grow in Jesus, connect in community, and join the mission. Contact Beth for more info at bhorn@irvingbible.org. Special Needs Ministry Volunteers Volunteer opportunities are available for men, women, youth and families. Join us Sundays as a Sonshine Pal or at Respite Care the fourth Saturday of each month. Contact Diana at dblessing@irvingbible.org. Mentor Kids in Single-Parent Families Men mentor a boy, and women mentor a girl from a single-parent family. All it takes is a little time and a big heart. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingible. org. ceived (minimum $25 donation). Visit donorbridgetx. org to find one of IBCs partners: New Friends New Life, Services of Hope, Brighter Tomorrows, Parenting Alone, Mercy Street, CCA and ALARM. Matching funds are limited, so be sure to log in early. Laundry Soap and Dryer Sheets Laundry Love is collecting laundry soap and dryer sheets for their monthly events in Irving. Please bring these to the Laundry Love box in the donation area by the Training Center. For more info contact Amy at aglover7576@hotmail.com. Care Packages for Armed Forces Help send care packages to those IBCers deployed in our armed forces. If you are interested in joining this team, or if you are a friend or family member of a deployed service man or woman and would like to add them to our list, please contact A. Gayland Leddy at (817) 320-3990 or eachief@sbcglobal.net. Cars for Missionary Families Do you have an extra car to loan a missionary family on furlough? Contact the International Initiatives Department (amartinez@irvingbible.org). Online Giving Option If you would find it more convenient to donate to the ministries of Irving Bible Church online, please visit give.irvingbible.org.

Second Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.

Childrens Classes (all ages) Crossroads (mid 20s to mid 30s couples), High School Room On Track (single parents), West C Journey (all welcome), Middle School Room Renew (multi-generational), Training Center Thrive (30s and 40s singles), West D

Third Worship Service: 5 p.m.

Childrens Classes (all ages)

Community Dinner: 6 p.m. Community Events: 6:45 p.m.

The Point (20s singles), The Alcove Legacy Builders (all welcome), Zone Jr. 7 Middle School, The Commons High School, Student Ministries Area

my resources
North Texas Giving Day Sept. 15, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. DonorBridge is sponsoring its North Texas Giving Day, where nonprofits with an approved profile are eligible for matching funds with every donation re-

Sunday Community Meals

Join us in the Town Square for our community meal on Sundays at 6 p.m. Meals are $3 per person or $10 max./family.
9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25 No Meal (Labor Day weekend) Fajita Madness Hamburgers and brauts Baked potatoes and fixins

Also, check out the Needs Board in the Town Square to find out how you can help meet the needs of others at IBC.

New to iBc?
Have questions? Were here to help.
journeylounge.irvingbible.org

If youd like to serve on a Sunday night meal team, contact Pat OReilly at (214) 289-6176 or sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org.

Were so glad youre here. Sometimes its hard to know where to begin, but we want to make the process of connecting and feeling at home as easy as possible. Here are some ways to start. Journey Lounge is a great place to get your questions answered, find help and encouragement for your personal journey, or just have a cup of coffee and settle in. Our team of volunteers would be happy to help you and our goal is to make you feel at home. Journey Lounge is open every Sunday after all three worship services. The Newcomer Gathering is an informal get-together for those new to IBC and/or those wanting to learn more about who we are, what we believe and how to get plugged in. Meet other newcomers, ministry leaders and elders. Cant seem to figure out what IBC is all about or how you fit into the larger picture? Want free breakfast every Sunday for four weeks? Propel is designed to help you figure out how to best plug in to IBCs culture and calling. Well talk about what it means to grow in Christ, connect in community and join the mission and what that might look like for you. Youll also learn more about membership at IBC. Small groups exist to cultivate deep relationships that advance the kingdom of God in dark places dark places in our world, in our relationships and in our hearts. We do this in the context of sermon-based Bible studies that meet in homes. Groups are comprised of 12 people or fewer and are formed by leaders who have completed small group leader training. To sign up for a group or get more info, contact Ryan Sanders at rsanders@ irvingbible.org.

Journey Lounge

Wednesday Midweek Meals

Each Wednesday night from 56:20 p.m., IBC prepares dinner for anyone wanting a good, hot meal. PB&J sandwiches are also available. Cost is $3/meal or $10 max./family. Just come by The Commons and grab a plate!
9/7 Ham, scalloped potatoes, mixed veggies, salad, rolls, dessert Hosted by Pat Downeys Team. Enchiladas, refried beans, tacos, chips and salsa, dessert Hosted by Barbara Wittes Team. Hamburgers, wedge fries, baked beans, brownies Hosted by Bob Downeys Team. Salisbury steak, baked potatoes, green beans, salad, rolls, dessert Hosted by Lavern Howells Team.

Newcomer Gathering
Learn more about IBC and meet others like you.
newcomergathering.irvingbible.org

9/14

Ready to get plugged in?

propel.irvingbible.org

Propel

9/21 9/28

Changes to the menu may be made depending on food cost and availability. If youd like to serve on a Wednesday night meal team, please e-mail bdowney@irvingbible.org.

Connect with others on the journey.

smallgroups.irvingbible.org

Small Groups

Chatter | 22

Brazilians. If theres one thing Christians (even those of the muy, muy caliente variety) love to do, its invoke the will of God. As in, it was just the Lords will. Get a cold and miss your kids 14th dance recital in as many months? It was just the Lords will. Stub your toe on the credenza thats been in the same spot for 20 years? It was just the Lords will. Get attacked by three varieties of marsupials while on a walkabout in Australia? Dude. Lords will. The root of this silliness is probably James 4:15. To paraphrase (hey, if that The Message guy can do it), Who can say they will absolutely, positively do something? FedEx. But you, you should only say you will do something if its the Lords will. But this passage is really a warning against being certain in our control over our own lives. Not a rationalization for thinking God supernaturally slid that nasty credenza out a couple more inches from the wall. God may be omnipresent, but that doesnt make him a high jinks-prone poltergeist. Besides, with all the cursory talk of God playing puppet master in trivial events and, sorry, God did not force you to eat those last six Oreos just because recycling was being picked up the next morning we often forget to consider the actual important part of Gods will. As in, what is his will for your life? I know why we all avoid this question. Because, after the issue of salvation, its the biggest of all lifes questions. And, frankly, most of us are afraid of the answer. Lets face it, probing Gods will for our lives opens us up to brace yourself being used by him in a surprising way. And few of us ever expect that surprising way to be as a world-renowned philanthropist who donates 90% of our lottery winnings while still enjoying weekend spins in the Bentley. No, the other Bentley. We tend to assume that Gods will for our lives will necessitate a move to Lower Whereisthatstan where well minister to indigenous tribes that fear spoons but worship sporks (yes, theres a KFC in Lower Whereisthatstan). While Im sure no small number of people hide from such callings, despite Lower Whereisthatstans thriving gravy trade, most people need not worry too much about the Lords will willing them to the boonies. But aside from our natural fear of what our supernatural path might be, the other issue of knowing the Lords will is, well, knowing the Lords will. Paul had his road to Damascus moment. Few of us will ever have a Highway 114 to Bass Pro moment wherein

Thy Will Be Well Done

If theres one thing Christians love to do, its dance. No, wait. Sorry. Thats

Jesus appears on a construction zone warning sign and tells us not to buy a new reel, but to become a fisher of men since the trout arent biting anyway. No, we have to muddle through on intangible, squishy things like faith and prayer. And thats more than a little difficult for most of us. We prefer firm direction and plain-as-the-glitter-in-J-Los-eyeliner answers. Should we move to a new city? Well, give dad a great new job in that city, Lord! Should we send the kiddos to private school? By all means, pony up a scholarship, Jesus! But it rarely works that way. At least not in my experience. If it has for you, be thankful. And dont rub it in. Sometimes, it feels like no amount of time in the Word, on our knees or in the company of other believers makes the answer clearer. But thats probably because were either not paying attention, or God isnt ready to reveal the answer just yet. Both options are frustrating, but hey, its the Lords will, you know? I dont have the answers. Well, not beyond my usual, made-up ones, of course. Im about to hit 39 years of age in full-on mid-life crisis mode, wondering what it is Im supposed to be doing after over 17 years of doing a lot that hasnt seemed to amount to much. Personally, Im hoping its just been a long prelude of preparation, and that God will lay out a new, Bentley- (or decent used Audi) strewn path in the very near future. Perhaps my time has been like Pauls initial years in Arabia, during which God transformed him from a Pharisee to a great messenger for Christ. Or perhaps I just havent been paying attention. All I really know is that living outside of Gods will isnt just the road to nowhere, its the drainage ditch beside the road to nowhere. And God has promised that if we seek, we shall find. Eventually. When it is his will to reveal it. Until then, Ill keep stockpiling sporks. Just in case. Jason Fox is a wandering dude.

WARNING: IDLE CHATTER IS A ToNGuE-IN-CHEEk Look AT MILDLY IMPoRTANT ToPICS FACING CHRISTIANITY ToDAY AND PoSSIBLY IN THE YEAR 2354. THIS CoLuMN MAY oR MAY NoT CoNTAIN TRuTHS THAT ARE PRoFouND oR PRoFouNDLY IMAGINED BY THE AuTHoR.

Spork: the colloquial term for Runcible Spoon, patented in 1970.

Bentley was the automobile of choice in the original James Bond novels not the Aston Martin.

The original meaning for credenza is trust or belief.

Chatter | 23

Jordan Raines and Chatter making themselves at home in the Forbidden City, Beijing, China.

Chatteryou CAN take it with you. Send us your Chatter photos on location, and you may see yourself in an upcoming issue. E-mail us at chatter@irvingbible.org.