AUGUST 2013

a letter from

Chatter

maybe even you, are operational because theyve got a little handful of lesser saviors that take them through life like stepping stones, one day to the next. Ive got my own stepping-stone saviors. I wake up and smell the coffee and the idea of that first sip propels me out of bed. Then I remember its the day Im going shopping for some fabulous new yoga pants, and the thought gets me into the shower. Then I step-stone on into lunch (just wait, were renting a Red Box tonight!), sit down in the afternoon to work on Chatter (just wait, were meeting up with friends for dinner this weekend!), and go to bed thinking about the next book on my list that Im going to read, or the next show Im going to see. An entire day will go by and I have been definitely, rather painlessly, propelled by something. But the fuel is low-grade. In a recent Facebook post, wild and witty Anne Lamott bemoans the struggle of craving lesser saviors: My entire life I have believed that there was something I could achieve, own, lease or date that would make me feel permanently wholeI want it to be out there, where I can go get it, and put it in my car, with the seatbelt buckling it in so I will never be without it again. Like it would be so much skin off Gods teeth to let me track it down in the realms of power, prestige, stature, money, weight, and Macys. But nooooooooooo God isnt satisfied to leave us to the lesser saviors, but he often waits patiently for them to run their course: The yoga pants dont fit, the movie is sold out, the promotion turns out to be golden handcuffs, the boyfriend is kind of a dud. Lesser saviors get us along the suburban roads, but then come the mountains and the oceans and the cliffs. What happens then? Jesus saves us yet again. And again. And again. We turn away from the chocolate for a millisecond, and hes there. We look up from the dying applause, and hes waiting for us. We come out from under our new clothes, and find a friend. All lesser saviors are usually good blessings, but blessings only bless. They never save. And we humans need major rescue. We need to repeat with every breath, Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal (Isaiah 26:4). The emphasis is clear: the Lord, yes the LORD (and not a lesser lord) is the Rock. And not just the Rock, but the forever Rock. Hes a rock. Not a stepping stone.

Why did Jesus die on the cross, Maddie? I asked my two-year-old. We were in the

car heading out of the church parking lot.

My five-year-old son interrupted: He died because the Roman guards were mean. Maddie disagreed. No! He died because he fell and skinned his knee! Skinning ones knee is the worst possible fate she can imagine, and since first-century crucifixion really doesnt hold any real meaning in her little pink brain, a skinned knee sums up the horror rather nicely. Of course, I couldnt leave it at that. Jesus died to save us from our SINS! I declared, feeling every bit like a godly mother, minus the cardigan. Because godly moms wear cardigans a lot. I knew that sin was a hard concept to understand even for adults, but Ive always been taught to talk to your kids above their level. Theyll catch on eventually. We all do. Ive gotten pretty used to the idea of Jesus dying for my sins. I mean, its been about 25 years since I asked Jesus personally to save me from them, so while Ive been made right with God and regularly rescued and retrieved from all manner of snares and pitfalls and temptations or fallen woefully short and asked yet again for grace and strength to move into healthier waters I never thought to look out for the other things Jesus is saving me from. Jesus saves us from our sin, but he also saves us from our lesser saviors. I do not mean The Oprah, as our Idle Chatter columnist Jason Fox calls her. I do not mean The Joel Osteen either. I mean those good and beautiful things that are all around us, those activities, things or people that promise a level of redemption and freedom in our day-to-day lives, and actually deliver pretty consistently. Its a dirty little secret, but there are a lot of basically happy people out there driving along 635 who are operating apart from Christ. (OK. Bad example. Most everybody is miserable on 635.) These people,

Editor Julie Rhodes Art Direction, Design & Goodness Josh Wiese, Lindsey Sobolik, Dennis Cheatham Admin Extraordinaire Victoria Andrews Our Very Tall Boss Scott McClellan, Communications Pastor Editorial Assistance/Proofing Summer Alexander*, Annie Stone*

Photography Evan Chavez (2435 Clinic)* Haley Schopp (Middle School Mission Trip Update) Jill Park (Mission Lunch Update)* Trey Grant (Middle School Mission Trip Update) Yony Kim (ESL)* Writers Jason Fox (Idle Chatter)*

Thoughts, comments, ideas? Contact Chatter at chatter@irvingbible.org. Need Chatter Digitally? Chatter is on the web at irvingbible.org/chatter. *Most beloved and indispensable Chatter Volunteer.

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 life transformation through Jesus Christ. We engage this journey by 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 email 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 irvingbible.org/eletter. New to IBC? Turn to page 18.

Update: Mission Lunch & Middle School Mission Trip

IBCers hear about our mission partners and friends from the Mission at IBC team (ML). A team of middle school students and leaders serve the homeless, refugees and immigrants in Austin, TX (MS).

ML

MS

ML ML

MS

MS

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Miracle Moments

from the 2435 Clinic

Big or small, miracles are happening every week at IBCs 2435 Clinic. Who better to tell these stories than the faithful volunteers and staff who serve as care providers, administrative assistants, and translators for those in our community who need free, immediate healthcare?
A family of five came to the clinic one Wednesday and was immediately diagnosed with a contagious skin disease. This warranted quarantine in one of our exam rooms while the healthcare providers diagnosed their exact condition. Our clinic leadership scrambled to find resources outside the clinic for the expensive medication requirements and treatment. The clinic team was so effective in not alarming the patients with their condition, but worked diligently to communicate to them through our interpreters on the steps necessary for their care. Our guests were treated with dignity not embarrassed by their condition. It was a miracle of quick wisdom, fast action and protection of clinic volunteers and the 2435 Kinwest community present in the Commons. Miguel V. Volunteer Interpreter

Dr. Tim O., DC

A young woman, her spouse and daughter were sitting in the clinic one evening. They were not here to see a doctor, but to deliver a copier/scanner to us. She told us, Now I am free from prostitution because of New Friends New Life (another IBC partner that aids women leaving sexually oriented businesses), and the accountant I work for asked if I knew of anyone who could use this machine, could you use it? Charles P. Clinic Director I was eating in the Commons with some other clinic volunteers, and a lady walked up to our table. She wanted to update us on her condition and give a thanks to one of our doctors who had guided her in the right direc-

2435 Clinic Stats

851
(Non Emergency/Well Care)

Patient Visits

$76,590
Value of Patient Visits
($90 Per Office Visit)

$254,671
Cost Savings to Hospitals

tion. It was a crazy night at the clinic when she had shown up, and we could not see any additional patients. But the care provider stopped and talked with her at the counter about how to seek out and talk with a specialist about her re-occurring neck issue. She had followed his directions and had neck surgery. She looked great and was so thankful that he had taken the time to talk with her briefly, even if he couldnt officially examine her. The generosity of our care providers is amazing. Ro O. Clinic Manager A lady came into our clinic in a nervous state of mind, both physically and emotionally. Her hands were trembling and she shyly apologized for bothering us. She said she was having trouble sleeping and getting through life on a daily basis. She was one of the last patients we saw that night, and when it was time for her to leave, the parking lot was dark and empty. I asked if we could walk her safely to her car. She agreed, and on the way told us that in the last year she had lost both her son and husband, and had also retired from her job as an educator in a local school system. And, although she was skilled as an artist, she felt as though she had lost her purpose in life. We talked to her for a while and listened to her stories, and told her that she was welcome to come back anytime even if she just wanted to talk, hang out, and visit. Even though her spirits appeared low when she arrived at the clinic, by the time she left she had cheered up a bit and thanked us for just listening. I am convinced the Lord led her to us that particular evening. The doctors had helped her medically, and I like to think that the passion and the atmosphere of our 2435 Clinic brightened her soul also. Chuck B. Patient Flow Coordinator On one Wednesday night, we had three different patients come into the clinic that appeared to be having heart attacks, but we could not tell. The medical clinic was new, and we did not have the equipment needed for evaluations by our healthcare providers. The doctor volunteering that night commented, I wish we had an EKG machine, and I added, and the volunteers who know how to run it! Within a few days, one of our MDs had secured a machine for our clinic, and I was approached by two ladies who were EKG technicians and wanted to volunteer. What we cannot do or what we do not have is small in comparison to what God provides! Ro O. Clinic Manager One Wednesday evening, a lady came to the Clinic to see a care provider about a prescription refill. During triage, it was evident that she was wrestling with depression. I shared with her that she would be able to see a care provider that evening, but that there was really not a prescription that was going to give her complete restoration. I praised the fact that she had left the couch, gotten dressed, and come to the clinic that evening instead of letting her pain trap her at home. It appeared she was looking for a simple an-

swer to one or more complex issues in her life, and I was able to share with her that time, patience, speaking to God and prayerfully listening to his response were as necessary to her healing as the prescription she may receive after the doctors visited with her. The fact that we at the 2435 Clinic cared about her long-term welfare and were willing to speak into her life (not just care for her physical body) seemed to comfort her. Bethany L. Medical Student One evening, a patient came in late insisting on seeing a doctor. When we told her we were so sorry but that we were full for the evening, she seemed very upset and left rather abruptly, leaving little time to follow up. We pulled her chart in the hope that she would return, and when she did, our gracious care providers found an opening for her that same night. God alone orchestrated this miracle, and we got to be there! A few weeks later, another family came in and left the clinic sometime after registration. (Because of our tight schedule, leaving the clinic can cause a patient to lose their place in line and not get to visit with a doctor.) When they returned, I was afraid they could not be seen, but one of our wonderful healthcare providers examined them, and then took extra time to pull them aside after their examination to explain a step-by-step plan for their medication. As she was leaving the clinic, the mother said, God is really here! Eric K. Patient Flwo Coordinator

Services Offered by the 2435 Clinic

Basic Well Care Vital Signs Glucose Testing Laboratory Testing (off-site) X Rays (off-site) Prescription(s) (written by healthcare providers) Free Dental Cleanings (referrals) Oral Surgeon (referrals) Ultrasound Testing (referrals) Professional Mental Care Professional Referrals* Specialist Referrals/Testing* Licensed Social Worker Counseling* Dietitian Counseling*
*If requested by healthcare providers.

2,138 25

Total Donated Volunteer Hours

Professional Healthcare Provider Volunteers

(MD, PA, FNP, RN, LVN, DC, LSW, Dietician)
Marilyn S., RN

If you are interested in becoming a part of the 2435 Clinic especially if you are a physician, PA, FNP, RN or a medical specialist in any field please connect with us and become part of the weekly miracle.

A Helpful Mosqu ito Schematic.

Because forewarned is fore-Arm-&-Hammered.

Compound Eye
better to see you with, my dear

Hind Leg

kickin it old school in Transylvania

the brains behind the blood

Occiput

Mid Leg

balance of power

example 1.

this wont hurt a bit

Proboscis

Antennae

detects other insects and Stetson Lady

wont join your swat team

Tarsomeres

Antepronotum

get the neck out of town

Costa Longitudinal Vein

Scutum

float like a bee, sting like Ali

never, ever AKA the Breastplate of Righteousness

40 crunches a day for a diabolical 7-pack

Abdominal Segments (i to vii)

example 2.

Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Arthropoda; Class: Insecta; Order: Diptera; Suborder: Nematocera; Infraorder: Culicomorpha; Superfamily: Culicoidea; Family: Culicidae

Staying indoors? Good. We are too. Here are some ways to avoid the mini-vamps this August.
The Sixth Floor Museum 411 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75202 (Downtown Dallas), (214) 747-6660: 2013 Living History Series with Dr. Thomas McConnell: August 24, 2013 2 p.m. Dallas World Aquarium 1801 North Griffin Street, Dallas, TX 75202, (214) 720-2224: Crocodile feedings, Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75205, (214) 346-1557 Dallas Museum of Art 1717 North Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201 (Downtown Dal-

las), (214) 922-1200: Late Nights at the DMA for August: Friday, the 16 (DMA open until midnight, featuring music, screenings, family programs). Dallas Angelika Film Center 5321 East Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75206, (214) 841-4712: Opening August 11: Very Verdi: Aida (filmed live performance of one of one of the worlds most popular operas. Also in August: Don Carlo and La Traviata) Museum of Biblical Art 7500 Park Lane, Dallas 75225, (214) 361-1365: bigger and better than ever after a complete redesign following the 2005 fire. Perot Museum of Nature & Science 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, TX 752011704, (214) 428- 5555: Discovery Days

Aerial Views: Discover Life in the Air (August 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.) Dallas Holocaust Museum 211 N Record Street, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75202 (Downtown Dallas), (214) 741-7500 Frontiers of Flight Museum 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75235 (Northwest Dallas-love Field), (214) 350-1651: Beat the Heat Saturday: August 24 Meadows Museum of Art 5900 Bishop Blvd, Owens Fine Arts Center, SMU Campus, (214) 768-2516 Dallas Theater Center 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219 (Oak Lawn), (214) 526-8210: Playing through August 18: Fly a new Peter Pan musical for the entire family

Pocket Sandwich Theater 5400 East Mockingbird Lane, Suite 119, Dallas, TX 75206, (214) 821-1860: Playing through August 18: Star Trip 11: The Hats of Horror a popcorn-throwing melodrama The House of Blues Dallas 2200 N. Lamar Street, Dallas, TX (Oak Lawn), (214) 978-2583: see website for info on an upcoming Gospel Brunch. The Murder Mystery Company Eddie Deens Ranch, 944 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75207, 888-643-2583: August shows: August 2 and 16 at 7 p.m. Book tickets in advance. Cosmic Jump Trampoline Entertainment Center 1300 N Central Expressway, Suite 300, Dallas, TX: open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hi friends. Why dont you describe your weekly role with ESL? We teach a beginners class for new to English students. Many of our students have very little experience speaking English. And for that matter, very little experience with Americans or the American culture. Thats a tough challenge. How do you think God prepared you to serve? We both have lived and spent time in other countries, so weve had experience learning the language and way of life of other cultures. Because weve gone through this, we know many of the challenges that our students face when they first get here. We often share our stories with them the stories of an Egyptian who came here and faced challenges similar to theirs (Sherien), and of an American (Charles) who has spent a lot of time traveling the world and it helps the students see a different perspective. Whats been your biggest challenge? The challenge is really a blessing: the class has gone from 1-3 students each week to well over 20. We used to teach one-on-one; now we teach a full class with students from various countries and of different ages. Changing the curriculum up to meet a larger and more diverse class has been challenging, like hitting a moving target. We never know what to expect, and that keeps us on our toes. Biggest blessing? Just one? Wow. We get a chance to interact with so many people who rarely get a chance to interact closely with Americans. We have had people from all over the world in our class. We had a Muslim family attend for a while and they wanted to know if it was ok for them to attend, since they are not Christians. This was a great opportunity to show the love of Christ to the world through IBC. Whats been the biggest surprise so far? The blessing. We are truly blessed by ESL. There is nothing quite like it. We never imagined wed know the first thing about doing this sort of work, yet its become a focal point of our week. And no matter what kind of day weve had before class, we walk out of class amazed at Gods work. It also surprised us to learn that some of our students have never gone out to interact with the people here, ever. To know there are people who come here from so far away, who only stay within a very limited circle and never get a chance to experience anything it just breaks our hearts. Potential volunteers might be intimidated to serve with ESL. How would you encourage them? If you are thinking about serving in ESL, we invite you to come by and hang out. Theres always room for more! We would like to expand the ministry by hosting some off-site or out of classroom classes in order to encourage our students to put their English into practice. Thats exciting stuff. How can IBCers pray? Please pray that our church will always have the means to host these types of classes, and that there is continued growth in attendance. ESL has been a one-of-a-kind experience and blessing for so many people including us. Corey Wallis has been invited to join the circus but doesnt even know how to ride a bike.
Corey coordinates the ESL class at IBC. Her day job is working as a legal assistant for an attorney specializing in criminal and traffic law. If youre interested in learning more about ESL, contact Corey at 2435esl@irvingbible.org.

Hi.

picture of someone youd pick to coordinate an English as a Second Language class. But God is bigger than our resumes and he has dreams for our communities that only he can accomplish. And thats how a meeting 5 years ago turned into one of the greatest experiences of my life. Four years after opening our doors and saying yes to a bold request, the ESL class at IBC has grown to serve students from 5 different continents and more languages than we can count.

My name is Corey. Ive never been overseas. I only speak English, and my idea of exotic food is the crepes at IHOP. That hardly seems like the

All thats well and good, but whats it like to actually be on the ground teaching? Sherien and Charles came to our program after exploring the different volunteer opportunities on Wednesday nights. For almost two years now, they have been an invaluable asset as they have taught and mentored students from all over the world. Newlyweds with busy, professional careers, they selflessly volunteer their free time each week to serve the international community through teaching. I sat with them at The Mo one afternoon to get their thoughts about what ESL has meant to them.

Coffee with ESL

2435 Kinwest Kickoff: September 11
Bring the whole family for a free meal in the IBC Commons, live entertainment, giveaways, tours and more. 2435 Kinwest is IBCs community event featuring classes (including ESL), the medical clinic, support groups, and activities for kids. For more info, visit irvingbible.org/2435kinwest. To volunteer for ESL, contact Corey at 2435esl@irvingbible.org.

The Chicken Florentine Crepes at IHOP have 55 grams of protein per serving.

The Chippewa language a dialect of the Ojibwe, an Indian tribe in Canada and the USA is considered one of the worlds most difficult languages to learn.

Chatter | 7

The Whatever Series: IBC Pastors Weigh In

ON

Sundays this month, the IBC Teaching Team will help us explore the things that matter the most to God in Scripture. Well see that its not wise to shrug our shoulders at the things of God blowing them off with an offhand whatever! but that what matters the most to God should matter the most to us.

It was a profound conversation for me. Because we may think we know the stories of those who walk in our doors, but we dont. Even the ones with the biggest smiles are sometimes the ones with the biggest hurts. So we love well, no matter who you are, no matter how late you are, even when you yell at the parking lot guys (yes, it happens) because when you see the Hospitality Team of IBC, it is our hope that you see Jesus. Because if you see Jesus in the parking lot and at the entry door first, it will make it much easier for you to see him in the music, in the prayers, in the sermon. And the more you see him, the more he can show you who he wants you to be and how much he loves you.

Chatter asked a few IBC pastors to wax philosophical (or downright practical) on specific weeks from the series that relate most closely to their unique areas of ministry. And while you wont see these folks delivering the sermons week to week, here they provide some new perspectives that will expand our understanding and challenge our assumptions about what really matters both in life and in church ministry. So. Ready for an epic weigh-in?

How we use our gifts matters especially with our unique designs
Brent McKinney, Mission Pastor Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of Gods grace in its various forms. (1 Peter 4:10) I believe that your identity affects how you behave in all sorts of ways, both big and small. For instance, if you truly see yourself as a business person, it will affect everything from how you spend your time and energy to your clothing choices. Or maybe if you see yourself as a guitar player, you might find picks amidst the loose change you pull out of your pocket. When we read 1 Peter 4:10-11, we see that those of us who follow Christ have received a special gift. Wouldnt our lives be flipped upside-down if we truly saw ourselves as especially gifted by God Himself ?If, every time we looked in the mirror, we saw ourselves as especially gifted to serve others by being a responsible steward of ...get this the mulit-colored, undeserved favor and divine enablement of God? Um. Wow. A thousand times wow. And if we keep reading in verse 11, we see that identity should naturally affect everything we say and do. Every single one of those things we say and do are for one purpose: to bring glory to God. So, when we look in the mirror, its important that we realize that we all bring something important to the table. Were all gifted by the King of Kings. And were to manage that gift well, so others can see that weve been transformed in whatever colors that looks like. Because it matters to God that the person in the next cubicle or the kid playing guitar or any person we run into at the grocery store or find playing with Legos in our family room or meet on that summer mission trip it matters that they see his glory in us, wherever we happen to meet them. And his glory will point them to The Way they can experience that multi-colored, abundant life God designed them for.

How we treat other people matters especially before worship

Jennifer Lefforge, Lead Team, Pastor of Worship Experience

The King will reply, Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. (Matthew 25:40) When do you feel like your Sunday worship begins? Maybe with the first note of the first song? Is it when you first enter the Worship Center? Or maybe its with the first prayer, or even the sermon. We actually believe that worship starts much sooner than that. In fact, my very job title, Pastor of Worship Experience, expresses this belief. We think your worship starts the minute you arrive in our parking lot. You see, we dont know the kind of week youve had, the fight you may have had with your spouse or the frightening diagnosis you may have received from your doctor. We dont even know if you love Jesus. But when you first come onto our campus we do know one thing that we will do our best to help you feel loved, welcomed and accepted. I once had a conversation with a young mom who was telling me how much it meant to her that one of our ushers had carried her baby carrier up the steps for her. She told me that her husband was not a Christian and although he allowed her to come to church, he would spend the morning yelling at her and belittling her decision. She was late that day because they had gotten into yet another screaming match about her choice to attend the service, and she was very upset and harried. When our usher lightened her load literally he also lightened her heart. He looked her in the eyes and said, Good morning, were glad youre here! Let me get that for you. And in that moment she was glad she was here, too.

Missed the sermon on Sunday? For video and other media from the IBC Teaching Series, visit irvingbible.org/media.

Chatter | 8

Now this is the story all about how My life got flipped, turned upside down - The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

How we think matters especially within community

Ryan Sanders, Lead Team, Small Groups Pastor

How we pray matters especially for our families

David Grant, Lead Team, Next Gen Pastor

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, whatever is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things. (Philippians 4:8) We are what we think. Our thoughts do more than reveal who we are; they also shape who we are and how we relate to others. Thats why the Bible gives us direction for our thoughts, not just our behaviors. We are told to guard our hearts, to meditate on the law of God, to fix these words of mine on your hearts and minds, even to take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ. Why does God care what we think as long as what we do is righteous? Because what we think is closer to who we are. It shapes our identity, our context and our community. Lets focus on community. We may be the first culture in history to think of ourselves primarily as individuals. We are certainly the most dominant individualistic society in history. For centuries past, and even today in many parts of the world, the foundational element of society is not an individual but a group. The Japanese word for human person is ningen which literally means between people. To be human i n that culture is to be together with others. Theres a Zulu word ubuntu which means, I am what I am because of who we all are or a person is a person because of other people. People through the centuries have understood that we are not ourselves alone. The Western idea that each man is an island unto himself, that the cowboy doesnt need anyone else, that a super-Christian or a super-spy or a super executive is defined by his lack of need, is unchristian to the core. When William Ernest Henley wrote, I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul, he was waxing luciferian beauty. This is not popular stuff in our American boot-strap culture, but its hard to argue for a Lone Ranger lifestyle from the pages of Scripture. As Bible scholar Lewis Donelson wrote: The gospel and the spirit of Christ place us in the body of Christ, which is a real, living, and breathing community of believers. We cannot disconnect from this community and still be in the body. One reason Paul tells us to set our minds on things above is because doing so influences our relationships below.

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer (Matthew 21:22). Prayer matters. As it relates to my wife and kids especially, I believe this statement to be true. My number one goal for my kids has always been that they grow up and love Jesus. He really is the only one who can accomplish that goal, so maybe I should ask him to do it. For me prayer has always been about what I believe and in whom I trust. When I trust God, I run to him and ask him to do the work; when I trust myself, I often neglect prayer. Lets face it: prayer is a walk of faith. Although each of my kids has graduated from high school, I find myself more committed to pray for them now than when they were around the house. And as I look back on how Ive longed to be faithful to trust God with their lives, here are a couple of suggestions you might find helpful too. First, pray with greater frequency. If you dont have some kind of plan where youre spending time alone with God everyday, start there. Around three times a week I spend focused time praying for my wife and kids. But heres what I mean by greater frequency. Any time your family comes to mind, talk to God about them. Praying should be like breathing. When we think of someone, it should be natural for us to talk to God about him or her. Second, pray with greater fervency. If God doesnt work in and through our family, were in trouble. It seems we should pray as if were desperate because, well, we are desperate. You may say, David, everything is great with my family. Well, just wait. We dont live in heaven yet and we need the constant work of God in our lives and in the lives of our family. So, in whom do we trust? Prayer really does matter. Do we believe it?

The Table begins August 11 and runs through September 8. If you would enjoy a safe conversation about the questions and concerns you have regarding Christianity or the meaning of life, join us at The Table Sunday morning at 9 a.m. All are welcome. Located in West A. The Table is free but seating is limited, so be sure to sign up early. Sign up in Town Square on Sundays, or online at irvingbible.org/thetable. Contact Jason at jstein@irvingbible.org.

Community airs on NBC and has won one Primetime Emmy.

Chatter | 9

Becoming Fully Human

have a clue what the phrase meant. The shirt was soft with a lived-in feeling and I liked the abstract design on the front. It was also a great conversation starter. The inked cashier at Whole Foods told me that he loved that band and someone else commented, Surely there is alien life somewhere out there. Hmm somehow I dont think that is what Oklahoma Baptist University had in mind when they chose becoming fully human as the theme of Welcome Week, the orientation program for incoming students. And so despite the fact that I oriented a group of freshmen that summer, and have studied the Bible on both the undergraduate and graduate levels, I have never understood the message that I so proudly sport until now. In preparation for the womens fall Bible study (and because I appreciate Bryan Eck signing my paycheck), Ive been studying the book of Ephesians. A relatively short book with only six chapters, Ephesians is considered by many to be a guide to the Christian life, or the Bibles spiritual warfare manual. Ephesians is all of those things, but the profound takeaway for me is that I now better understand my God-given identity and purpose in life. And since youre going to skim this article for the punch line, let me go ahead and give it to you: You and I were created to know God intimately. To show the world who God is by living lives that point to God and bring him glory. To be Gods imageYou and I were created to bearers. In other words, the know God intimately. Christian life is the process of the Christian life is the becoming who we were created process of becoming who to be fully human. In Genesis 1:27 we are told, So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Later, surveying everything that he had made, God declared, it was very good (Gen. 1:31). Adam and Eve physically walked in intimacy with God and enjoyed the beauty of unbroken relationship with each other and with God. It was good to be human. But when our forbearers chose to sin, Gods image-bearers, you and I, became less God-like. Originally intended to reflect the good and loving God to the world, humanity was now marred with sin. And as a result, our ability to bear the image of God was also greatly diminished. Thankfully, the story doesnt end there! In Ephesians 2:10, Paul explicitly reminds us who we are Gods workmanship and what we were created to do good works. In Greek, works means poem, artwork, masterpiece. Think about that. Even though we are broken people living in a sin-filled world, we still get to engage in the beautiful acts of cultivation and creation. And by cultivating and creating by working you and I reflect Gods image. Paul also reveals to us the Fathers overarching plan for the fullness of time: to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth (Eph. 1:10). It is in this unity with Christ and the resulting transformation process that God restores us to who we were meant to be fully human. Therefore in Christ we not only have identity, but also a purpose for living.
For the past seven years, my favorite go-to t-shirt has been a maroon one that simply reads, becoming fully human. Never mind that I didnt

St. Irenaeus, an ancient church father, is well known for saying, The glory of God is man fully alive. The book of Ephesians confirms the truth of the statement. God is glorified when his image-bearers are imitating him (Eph. 5:1). When they are walking in love (Eph. 5:2). When they are growing into who they were created to be (Eph. 4:15). Ive been advertising since 2006 that Im in the processing of becoming fully human. Join Women at IBC this fall and discover what God has to teach you about your purpose in life and your identity as his image-bearer. And when you see me in my well-worn maroon shirt, feel free to ask me what becoming fully human means. Now I have an answer for you. And it doesnt involve rock bands (sorry Brent McKinney) or aliens. As a former party hostess at Lets Pretend Tea Parties, Tiffany Stein is still waiting for her royalty check from appearing in all those home videos.
Tiffany is the Ministry Coordinator for Women at IBC.

we were created to be fully human.

WOMENS BIBLE STUDY

Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ

By Sue Edwards
Who are you and why are you here? Ephesians has the answers. In six short chapters Paul explains your God-given identity and purpose. When: Tuesdays, September 10November 12 (10 weeks) 9:3011:30 a.m. or 6:308:30 p.m. Where: The Commons at IBC Cost: $15 (includes workbook) Register at irvingbible.org/women. KidZone is also available upon registration and closes September 6 at 12 p.m. Questions? Contact: Tiffany at tstein@irvingbible.org or (972) 5604600.

EPHESIANS

Chatter | 10

The city of Ephesus had a population of 250,000 in the first century, making it one of the largest cities in the Mediterranean region.

Pinocchio dreams of becoming fully human in the 1940 Disney classic film. One cricket and two major nose jobs later, he finally gets his wish.

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Park Small Group

Victoria and Jennifer's High School Group

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Over 30% of the IBC family is part of a small group. That means a lot of you have been out enjoying the last weeks of summer together. Here are a few of our favorite Small Group pics from Summer of 13. Come up with the best caption for any of these, and you and your small group could win Marble Slab!
Young Adults Group

Small Group Caption Contest

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Brad Terry Small Group

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Hollrah Small Group

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Severski/Head Small Group

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Sign up for an IBC Small Group today!

Small Groups fall sign-up closes August 18. Register at irvingbible.org/smallgroups. IBC small groups are a place to grow deep relationships that advance the kingdom of God in dark places dark places in our world, in our relationships, and in our hearts. The goal is true, lifelong relationships that God uses for his glory. IBC Small Groups meet weekly in homes to eat, pray and learn. The curriculum, based on each Sundays sermon, invites members to dig deeper into Scripture and share their viewpoints and life experiences. Group sessions run 10 weeks. For more info contact Katie at kgeurin@irvingbible.org. Please register by August 18 at irvingbible.org/smallgroups.
Chatter | 11

Send your captions to chatter@irvingbible.org. (Want to see what Chatter staff came up with instead? Visit our Facebook page today: facebook.com/chattermag.)

Ruining Our Kids and Other Myths

An Interview with Leslie Leyland Fields

Leslie Leyland Fields will be the featured speaker at Parenting at IBCs fall parenting conference. The author/editor of eight books, including Parenting is Your Highest Callingand Eight Other Myths That Trap Us In Worry and Guilt, Leslie is a contributing editor to Christianity Today, including the Books and Culture and her.menutics blogs, as well as the award-winning Wordserve Water Cooler Blog. Every summer since 1978, Leslie and her family have operated a commercial salmon fishing business in Harvester Island, Alaska. Youve had six children, Leslie. Six! What are their current ages/stages and personalities? My kids range from 25 down to 10, so we have grad school, college, junior high and elementary all going on together. My eldest is a girl and the rest are boys! (Do I hear a sympathetic gasp?) In this bunch I have a theatre director, a chemist, a rapper, a writer, a political scientist and a wrestler. And all of them are commercial fishermen as well, including my daughter, whos an incredible skipper. We live in Alaska, and in the summers we move to our own island (where I am right now) and commercial fish for salmon. So despite all their different ages and interests, we all still come and meld our lives together here. Whats been the biggest insecurity youve faced along the way? Youre asking for just ONE? Oh my goodness. Okay, my biggest fear, especially when my children were younger, was that I was ruining them. That because I was often at the end of my rope, and lost patience (and other Christian virtues) often, that God was displeased with me and I was destroying my kids chances of growing up to become God-loving adults. I thought it all hung on ME. I knew I was a bad Christian mother and that it had to be my fault that my home wasnt this continually peaceful, happy household like the ones I would hear about on Christian radio. Most embarrassing moment with your kids? Heres one of many: I was giving a reading at a university, and my daughter,

then 9, was with me. She sat in the front row and loudly yawned throughout my reading, interrupting me several times. My be quiet glares didnt faze her a bit. She didnt stop until she finally fell asleep for all to see! But so it goes our kids keep us humble! You wrote a book about parenting myths that trap us in worry and guilt. Which myth hits closest to home for you? That children are here to make us, their parents, happy and fulfilled. Theyre not! Theyre not here for our purposes, for our needs theyre here to serve Gods purposes. So when Im not happy with them or feeling fulfilled as a parent, when times are really hard with a particular child, it doesnt matter. God is still in control, and God is working out his purposes in their lives, regardless of my feelings of joy or fulfillment. The value of parenting cannot be measured by how Im feeling about it at any given time. Theres SUCH freedom in this for both us and our children! Our children werent meant to carry the burden of us finding our happiness and fulfillment through them! And we will be nothing but disappointed if we set our deepest hearts on our children instead of Christ. And has that changed over time, depending on the age/stage of your kids? Not at all. As a parent, Ive been through times of such great joy and through times of crisis, fear and just plain everydayness with my children. If I still thought parenting was about me, as I once did, I would have given up a long time ago, or I would have turned into an obsessive controlling parent, trying to wring all the fulfillment I could force out of my kids. If you could sum up successful parenting in one word, what would it be? God-loving. But it works better in two words: Loving God.

Moms Night Out

Registration Visit irvingbible.org/parenting. Childcare Childcare is available (Saturday only) and free please register at irvingbible.org/kidzone. Questions? Contact Mary Ann Connor at mconnor@ irvingbible.org.

Friday, September 20, 79 p.m. Join us for a light-hearted and fun moms night out candidly sharing the myths behind what it means to be a successful mom while enjoying special desserts and the company of like-minded moms.

General Session and Breakouts

Saturday, September 21, 8:30 a.m.2 p.m. Parents of all ages and stages are invited to engage the everyday questions of parenting with author and speaker Leslie Leyland Fields (see interview above) along with several breakout sessions by topic and age.

Sponsored by:

We asked single parents and volunteers from OP+K to tell us about whats meant the most to them.
On my very first class in OP+K, one of the leaders mentioned that it was our job as parents to build the self-esteem and confidence of our childs other parent because this would be beneficial to our child. I can remember leaving class, getting into my car, and immediately calling my best friend. I believe my words to her were, These people are crazy! They expect me to not just be nice but to also help build up the esteem of my ex, and that just isnt going to happen. My heart was hurting and I just couldnt see myself ever being able to be in a positive relationship with my ex-husband. Despite my hesitation though, I continued to go to class. Each class helped me to develop skills in communicating with my ex-husband and in reflecting upon myself as a woman and a mother. It was comforting to know that I was not the only one on this journey, that other people in class felt the same types of things I felt and had the same struggles I was facing. I know that my pain didnt go away all at once, but it did go away. Today, I can proudly say that my ex-husband and I do have a positive relationship in raising our daughter. I attribute our relationship not just to the skills gained in class but also to the love and support from the group. OP+K truly has been a blessing in my life and the life of my daughter. Josie E. single mom

One Parent Plus Kids: Big Blessings

My biggest blessing from OP+K was

the freedom to express my feelings without being judged and getting objective, constructive feedback from our teachers. Beth W. single mom being able to give the children the tools they needed to talk with their parents about how they feel. Summer C. volunteer the realization that we were not alone.
Laura T. single mom

understanding my own mom and dad, and finding the grace to forgive them.
Natosha A. single mom

One Parent+Kids Kick-off: Wednesday, September 4 Dont fly solo. Whether your family is healing from the pain of divorce or just looking for new ways to build healthy communication, we invite you and your kids to experience One Parent+Kids, a 12-week program designed to enrich the lives of single-parent families. Dinner in the Commons: 5-6:20 p.m. Class for kids and parents: 6:45-8:15 p.m. Cost: $40 per family for the semester (includes dinner each week, all supplies, curriculum materials). Scholarships are available. Register online under Single Parent Ministry at irvingbible.org/singleparents. Contact Jennifer for more information at jerlenbusch@irvingbible.org.

IBC and the City of Irving team up again.

Supplies for Success

Family Promise Event

The week of September 1
IBC will be hosting homeless families on-campus for the week of September 1. If you would like to help with hospitality, food, transportation or other needs, please visit irvingbible. org/localmissions to sign up. Questions about Family Promise Irving? Contact tricia at tkinsman@irvingbible.org.

Were big on backpacks. Once again, IBC is providing for our local partners and collaborating with Irving Mayor, Beth Van Duyne and the City of Irving, the Irving Fire Department, Irving YMCA, Chase Bank and many more community groups and businesses to assist children from low-income families in Irving that cannot afford school supplies. You can help by filling a backpack today. Goal: 2,000. Get the backpack list at the kiosk on Sunday or at irvingbible.org/resources. Filled backpacks can be dropped off at IBC July 28-August 11. The Supplies for Success drive will be August 17.

This just in: the IBC and City of Irving collaboration (STEP program) has won Faith & Philanthropys Best Practices in DFW for a successful collaboration.

The first man to fly solo across the Atlantic was Charles Lindbergh in 1927. Amelia Earhart did the same in 1932.

The word backpack was coined in the United States in the 1910s.

Chatter | 13

THIS MONTH
Bible Communities
Groups on Sunday
Theres always something new going on in Bible Communities! Heres a taste of whats happening this month:
Synergy 9 a.m. Middle School Room Couples in their 30s to 50s If you desire to dive into the Scriptures and deepen your faith, this class is for you. The Tree 9 a.m. West D 20s & 30s, married and young families Join us as we get UNSTUCK and back on the path to a life of purpose that God intends for us through the powerful biblical teaching of Mark Batterson, Francis Chan, Lisa Harper and Rich Stearns. Crossroads 10:45 a.m. High School Room Married late 20s and 30s Join us as we explore the core beliefs of Christianity. We will unpack the central Christian doctrines by learning more about the Apostles Creed. Journey 10:45 a.m. Middle School Room All Welcome We will be discussing twelve specific ways that Christ was foreshadowed in the Old Testament. This study will make the OT come alive and add richness to our understanding of Gods redemptive plan for us through Christ. On Track 10:45 a.m. West C Single Parents If you are a single parent or a blended family, please join us for Bible study, fellowship and prayer. Thrive 10:45 a.m. West D Singles in their 30s & 40s Thrive offers in-depth biblical teaching with group discussion to inform, challenge and mobilize believers. Join us for our current series on Boundaries in Dating. Renew 10:45 a.m. Training Center Diverse, all ages and stages Join us we begin a new study by Todd Phillips called Keep Climbing: Why God Doesnt Give You Everything You Want. Legacy Builders 6:45 p.m. West A All Welcome Join us for fellowship, prayer, and in-depth Bible teaching.

Children

Infants Through 5th Grade

Back to School Backpacks: Interested in helping Irving kids get ready for back-to-school? Contact Lauren Moussa atlmoussa@irvingbible.org. See ad, pg. 13. Kindergarten Preview Day August 18 Kinder preview day will give you the chance to check out your new space in The Zone and meet and worship with the big kids. (Parents invited too.) Promotion Sunday August 25 Kids move up to the next grade in their classes. Zone 6:30 Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Kicks off September 10. A small group exploration of the Bible and Gods story. For kids K5th grade. MyZone Wednesdays, 6:308:30 p.m. Zone/Zone Jr. Kicks off September 11. A mid-week event for kids thats great for bringing friends. K5 grade.

Hope & Healing

Community Care
DivorceCare September 19, 6:30 p.m. The Conference Room See ad, pg. 16. Griefshare Thursdays, 6:308:30 p.m. West C Begins August 29. Join a caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of lifes most difficult experiences. You dont have to walk through the journey alone. KidZone is available with prior registration. Contact Sharon at shararrington@verizon.net. Abortion Recovery Counseling One-on-one, confidential counseling for those living with the aftermath of abortion. For information, contact Kym at (972) 5604632 or kyeichner@irvingbible.org. Recovery at IBC Thursdays, 6:308:30 p.m. West Wing Youth Lounge Do you deal with perfectionism, pride, overeating, inappropriate anger or control? Recovery is confidential and all are welcome. Grace for the Wounded Thursdays, 6:308:30 p.m. A confidential small group ministry that explores the wounds we have received and the healing journey Gods prepared for us. Female group currently offered. Contact graceforthewounded@irvingbible. org to register. NAMI Family-to-Family Class Mondays, 6:309:30 p.m. West B A 12-week course designed for families and caregivers of those with serious mental illness. Restarts fall 2013. Contact Joey at joey@ netbreezeinc.com or Debra at eumoore@yahoo.com. Shelter from the Storm A confidential small group that focuses on finding hope and healing from sexual abuse. We offer groups for both teens and adults. Contact Michelle at shelterfromthestormibc@gmail.com or (214) 7250898. Mental Health Grace Alliance Every other Monday, 6:30 p.m. West C Family Grace Group For family members, friends and caregivers who support individuals with serious mental disorders. Contact Buzz Moody at myrabuzz@gmail.com.

Stephen Ministry at IBC Stephen Ministers provide a listening ear and a caring presence for IBCers going through emotionally difficult times such as the loss of a loved one, loss of a job, illness, injury, divorce or other life events. If you or someone you know could benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister, or if you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, contact stephenministry@irvingbible.org.

Marriage

Growing Together
Save the Date Marriage at IBC is currently on a break and will start back October 6. Watch Chatter for mor details. Save the Date Marriage at IBC Date Night: September 28. Watch Chatter for more details.

Visit irvingbible.org/marriage for more info.

Contact children@irvingbible.org.

Men

Community and Resources

Big Man Breakfast September 6, 6:22 a.m. The Commons See ad, pg. 17. First Watch Fridays, 6:22 a.m. The Commons Join us for our summer breakout sessions. First Watch Xtra Meets Wednesdays at 6:30 a.m. in the Training Center. Visit irvingbible.org/ men for more info.

Connect

Events and Resources for Newcomers and Small Groups

Newcomer Gathering August 22, 6:308 p.m. Zone, Jr. Join us for our Newcomer Gathering. See ad, pg. 17. Small Group Sign-Ups August 18 The fall session of small groups is starting up. Please register by August 18. Contact smallgrouops@ irvingbible.org. See article, pg. 11. Launch Pad Sundays, 9 a.m. West C Launch Pad is a place for people who are registered for small groups, but have a few weeks to wait before we place them. Contact Sara at staylor@irvingbible.org.

Mission

Local and Global

Prayer Meeting 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 6:458 p.m. The Chapel Join us as we pray for IBC and the needs of our people and the world. Laundry Love first Saturday of the month 9 a.m.12 p.m. Located at Amigo Laundromat, 3349 Country Club Dr. in Irving (just down from Sam Houston Middle School). Please join us as we provide free laundry cycles and detergent, strike up conversations and build relationships. For more info visit llpirving.org or contact info@llpirving.org.

Faith and Belief

Events and Resources
The Table August 11, 9 a.m. West A Join us as we talk about faith and explore the hard questions of life. Contact Jason at jstein@irvingbible. org or visit irvingbible.org/thetable.

Please visit page 18 for more Sunday Bible Communities.

The Living Grace Group For those who have mental illness. Contact Melissa Clark at melisser34@yahoo.com.

Chatter | 14

Parenting

Events and Resources

Parenting at IBC Conference September 2021 Join us for a conference featuring author Leslie Fields. See article, pg. 12.

Students

Middle/High School and College

Middle School Sundays MERGE AM The Alcove, 10:45 a.m.12:05 p.m.

Tapestry

Adoptive and Foster Families

Fostering Hope group for Foster Parents August 11, 56:15 p.m. Training Center Support group for anyone who is involved with serving kids through foster care. Playgroup for adoptive/ foster families Saturday, August 17,10:30 a.m. The Tubes Empowered to Connect Parent Discussion group Sunday, August 18, 56:15 p.m. Training Center

Miscellaneous
A Little Bit of Everything
NICHE (North Irving Christian Home Educators) Join us for our 20132014 NICHE kick off on Monday, August 26. Please bring checks so that you can reserve spots at our prepaid events. For more information visit texasniche.com or contact board@ texasniche.com. New Arrivals Congratulations to the following family on the birth of their child:

Visit irvingbible.org/parenting for more info.

There will be a new schedule starting August 25: 10:4511:20 a.m.: Worship Gathering 11:20 a.m. 12:20 p.m.: Life Groups
Middle School Wednesdays The W Student Ministry area, 6:308 p.m. Fall kick off September 4. High School Sundays Life Groups kick off August 25 See ad, pg. 16. High School Wednesdays SWAG 7:158:30 a.m. The Alcove Kick off September 4. IBC College Ministry Sundays at 3:30 p.m. The Commons Annex Passion Conference 2014 The college group at IBC will be attending Passion 2014 in Houston, TX, February 1415. For latest info on times and locations of events join the Facebook group: College at IBC.

Seniors

For Folks Ages 55+

Dinner and a Show August 8 6:30 p.m.: Dinner at Boston Market on MacArthur and Walnut Hill.

Alfonso and Brenda Linares and their daughter Ariana Raquel, born April 24 at 6 lbs, 4 oz and 19 inches.

8 p.m.: ICT Mainstage Dupree Theater presents The Bells Are Ringing.
Lunch and Fellowship August 18 Join us at Dennys at 8120 Esters Blvd, Irving, TX.

Contact Amy Curtis at acurtis@ irvingbible.org.

Young Adults
20s and Early 30s
Fall Kick Off August 22, 7 p.m. The Alcove Join us for our new series Bleed. We use phrases like I bleed Maroon because what we bleed is a picture of who we are at our core. As Christians, Jesus is our primary allegiance and who we are at our core comes from him. Sunday Mornings at the Mo Sundays, 10 a.m. The Mosaic Caf Join us for fellowship before the 10:45 a.m. service.

Please contact bgroezinger@ verizon.net.

Single Parents

Community and Resources

One Parent + Kids Starts September 1 Join us for this 12-week program designed to enrich the lives of single parent families. See article, pg. 13. Sit with us on Sunday! Several single-parent families enjoy worshiping together in the 9 a.m. service. Join us in the lowest righthand section, Rows 5 & 6, facing the stage.

Contact mconnor@irvingbible.org.

WOMEN

Community and Resources

#LOL@IBC August 27, 6:308:30 p.m. The Commons Lots of cupcakes. Outrageous comedy. Ladies connecting. See ad, pg. 17. Womens Fall Bible Study Tuesdays starting September 10 Join us for Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose in Christ. See article, pg. 10. Square One Starts September 26 This ministry is for first-time moms. Attend with your 06 month old and connect with mentor moms and other new moms. Contact Angie at squareone@irvingbible.org for more info.

Visit irvingbible.org/youngadults.

2435 Kinwest

Wednesday Nights at IBC

Vox Humana Choir Wednesdays, 6:308:10 p.m. IBC Worship Center The choral community of IBC is always looking for new singers, beginner or pro. Everyone is welcome and you can join at any time! No auditions necessary. Contact Crystal at celwell@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. For more info, contact 2435jobtransition@ irvingbible.org.

Special Needs

Community and Resources

In His Image Bible Study Wednesdays, 6:307:45 p.m. Training Room A small group for adults (18+) with special needs. Special Needs Support Group Wednesday nights, 6:307:45 p.m. The Conference Room Contact Lori at lorikuy@gmail.com. SonShine Pals and Room Our SonShine Rooms are available during the 10:45 a.m. service for children with special needs. There are also opportunities for children to be matched with a SonShine Pal.

Visit irvingbible.org/women.

Visit 2435kinwest.org.

Contact specialneeds@irvingbible.org.

Chatter | 15

What could the people of God do for the Kingdom if they were completely debt-free?
What could you do?

DivorceCare

Begins September 19 6:30 p.m. | IBC Conference Room | Cost: $20 Separation and divorce are two of the most painful, stressful experiences anyone will ever face. Its confusing. Isolating. There are questions lots of them. DivorceCare is a weekly support group designed to help you face these challenges and begin rebuilding your life. Register at irvingbible.org/supportgroups. KidZone is available with prior registration. For more info, contact Kym at kyeichner@ irvingbible.org.

Financial Peace University (FPU) is a 9-week program that empowers you to make the right money decisions and experience a total money makeover. Led by Dave Ramsey, FPU takes the head knowledge from his books and radio show and turns it into real action. The course has been a life-changing experience for over 350,000 families already. FPU is for everyone from the financially secure to the financially distressed.

Schedule: Class begins September 18, 6:30 p.m. in West A/C Cost: $90 Registration: Exclusively online at irvingbible.org/fpu Information: Contact kyeichner@ irvingbible.org with questions. KidZone is available with prior registration.

GROUPS
Kickoff: Sunday, August 25

Life

High School and Middle School Life Groups are a great opportunity to connect with friends and leaders over Gods Word in a safe environment. If youre a student looking to engage truth, grow closer to God, and learn to apply Scripture to your everyday life, join one of our weekly small groups on Sundays at 6:45 p.m. Groups begin August 25. Sign up starting August 1 at irvingbible.org/students. Forms will also be available on Sundays in the Student Ministries area. Questions? Contact Mary Ann Connor at mconnor@irvingbible.org or check out irvingbible.org/students.
SAVE THE DATE

Wednesday Nights Kickoff: September 4

SWAG (High School): 7:15 p.m. The W (Middle School): 6:30 p.m.

It only takes one massive breakfast to find out.

Is First Watch for you?

As Men at IBC, we know that its easier to follow Christ when we are walking with others on the same journey. Thats why First Watch provides an unmatched forum for men to talk about the stuff that matters, move closer to Christ, and make an eternal difference.

FIRST WATCH KICKOFF BREAKFAST September 6 | The IBC Commons | 6:22 a.m.

No reservations needed. Donations accepted, with all proceeds going to New Friends New Life.

#LOL @IBC
FIRST WATCH KICKOFF
BIG MAN BREAKFAST

Lots of cupcakes.Outrageous comedy. Ladies connecting..

Invite your sister, friend, or favorite co-worker to the annual fall kickoff for Women at IBC. Enjoy cupcakes from Mellow Treats, laugh with improv troupe Pavlovs Dogs, and discover all that Women at IBC has to offer at the ministry fair highlighting our events, ministries, and local partners. Its a night you dont want to miss! When: Tuesday, August 27, 6:308:30 p.m. Where: The Commons at IBC Cost: Free No registration required, but children must be registered in advance by contacting Kidzone@irvingbible.org.

Newcomer Gathering
If you are new to IBC, we invite you to attend the Newcomer Gathering is designed to help you learn more about who we are, what we believe, and how to get plugged in. Meet church leadership, ask questions, and get to know other newcomers in a relaxed, informal environment.

When: August 22 Time: 6:308 p.m. Location: Zone Jr. A light dinner will be served. Register: Visit irvingbible.org/ newcomergathering Questions? Contact Sherri Sharp at ssharp@irvingbible.org or (972) 5604614.

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

HOW DO I GIVE?
My Time, Talents & Skills
2435 Kinwest Medical Clinic Volunteers The medical clinic is in need of professional health care providers (MD, PA, FNP) to provide treatment for our patients. Volunteers do not need to serve every week. Contact Charles at cpierce@2435clinic.org. Tapestry Volunteers Tapestry, IBCs foster and adoption ministry, is in need of volunteers. Contact Amy Curtis at acurtis@irvingbible.org. NFNL Volunteers On the third Wednesday of each month we need help serving dinner to the women of New Friends New Life at Preston Road Church of Christ. Contact Christine at newfriendsnewlife@irvingbible.org. Lawyers Needed ALARM (African Leadership and Reconciliation Ministries) is looking for lawyers to be agents of Gods leadership, reconciliation and justice. Contact melodymgranados@gmail.com. Mentor Kids in Single-Parent Families Men and women are needed for gender specific mentoring of children from single parent families. Contact Marsha at mtribbett@irvingible.org. Meal Team Volunteers IBC makes meals available both Sunday and Wednesday nights. Additional volunteers are needed to serve together. Sundays, contact sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org. Wednesdays, contact bdowney@irvingbible.org.

Special Need Volunteers There any many opportunities from once a month to every Sunday to volunteer with the special needs ministry. Contact Shannon at specialneeds@irvingbible.org.

Second Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.

Childrens Classes (all ages) Crossroads (mid 20s-30s couples), High School Room On Track (single parents), West C Journey (all welcome), Middle School Room Merge A.M. (middle school), Alcove Renew (multi-generational), Training Center Thrive (30s & 40s singles), West D

My Resources
Dental Supplies Tapestry will be collecting toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss for children in Tapestry box in the donation area at IBC. Donations are for Beyond Adoption in Bungoma, Kenya. Breakfast Cereal Need for Brighter Tommorrows The womens shelter in Irving has an ongoing need for cereal to feed their women and children. Drop your boxes in the donation area at IBC. Contact Marjorie at brightertomorrows@irvingbible.org. Laundry Soap and Dryer Sheets Laundry Love is collecting laundry soap and dryer sheets. Bring these to the Laundry Love box in the donation area by the Training Center. For more info visit llpirving.org or contact info@llpirving.org. Online Giving Option If you would find it more convenient to donate to the ministries of Irving Bible Church online, visit irvingbible.org/give.

Third Worship Service: 5 p.m.

Childrens Classes (all ages)

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

Legacy Builders (all welcome), West A Middle School, The Commons High School, Student Ministries Area

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. 8/4 Pizza pallooza, breasticks, salad bar. 8/11 Beef fajita madness, chips and salsa, salad bar. 8/18 Burgers and brats, salad bar. 8/25 Giant baked potatoes with all the fixins, salad bar. If youd like to serve on a Sunday night meal team, contact Pat OReilly at (214) 289-6176 or sundaynightmeal@irvingbible.org.

Interested in learning more about IBCs budget for 2013 or other financial nuts and bolts? Visit irvingbible.org/budget.

Wednesday Midweek Meals

Each Wednesday night from 5-6:20 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! 8/7 Pizza, salad, dessert. 8/14 Deluxe hamburgers, tater tots, pickle spears, dessert. 8/21 Lasagna, hot breadsticks, salad, dessert. 8/28 Baked potatoes with all the fixins, salad, dessert. All August meals hosted by the Summer Team. Changes to the menu may be made depending on food cost, availability, and Bob Downeys whim. If youd like to serve on a Wednesday night meal team, please email bdowney@irvingbible.org.

New to IBC?
Have questions? Were here to help.

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. The Information Center 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. The Information Center 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 comprise 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.

Information Center
irvingbible.org/connect

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

Ready to get plugged in?

irvingbible.org/connect

Propel

The Mosaic caf (the mo)

Caf Hours Monday, Tuesday & Thursday: 8 a.m.12 p.m. Wednesday: 8 a.m.12 p.m. and 47 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.12 p.m. Saturday: Closed Sunday: 8 a.m.12:30 p.m. & 47 p.m. Phone: (972) 443-3323 New signature drinks! Stop by The Mo and see what weve got brewing.

Connect with others on the journey.

irvingbible.org/smallgroups

Small Groups

Chatter | 18

familiar with the Ten Plagues of Egypt chronicled in (no, not I or II Chronicles) Exodus chapters 5 11, few of us know why God chose these specific abominations to rain down upon the unbelievers. (And fewer of us have any idea of what pestilence is beyond being vaguely related to lice and/or Pamela Anderson.) And this column will make you none the wiser in that department. What it will do is illuminate your minds to a few of the potential plagues that Jehovah, in his omniscience, rejected for reasons that remain lost to the mysteries of time and common sense. A Plague of Tartar Strongly favored by Johoichim, chief (and only) dentist to the enslaved Hebrew nation, this plague was deemed too slow to be useful as the cumulative effects of halitosis and gingivitis could easily be ascribed to a diet high in onions and Ben & Ramses Scarabs n Cream. A Plague of In-Laws At a glance, this plague may seem to fall under the category of cruel and unusual punishment, never mind Egypts lack of an Eighth Amendment. In truth, the issue was that some in-laws are actually nice prone to baking pies and helping the man of the brick hut finish that sarcophagus hes been working on since 1315 B.C. All in all, too iffy. A Plague of Bunnies Bunny rabbits. Theyre the fuzzy cockroaches of the animal kingdom. If youve seen one bunny, you definitely havent seen them all. One minute theyre wriggling their noses at you like Thumper on a cuteness binge. The next, theyre ravaging your papyrus garden like Homer Simpson at a Chinese buffet. Some even sport nasty, big, pointy teeth. In the end, God tempered his wrath and opted for locusts. A Plague of Baldwins Every generation has its own particular set of Baldwin brothers, placed by the hand of the Almighty for such a time that their boorish-yet-perfectly-coiffed behavior will effect the most despair. Lucky for the Egyptians, the Lord chose to wait 3,400 years before unleashing this hydra of hair gel. Not so lucky for us, 30 Rock notwithstanding. A Plague of Hangnails Recent archaeological digs point to the ancient Egyptians as being a rather vain people. Among the funerary artifacts discovered within the tomb of one Princess Kimye Khrdishen was an ovoid piece of polished onyx with dozens of sharpened perforations a forerunner to todays Ped Egg. However, God surmised that toying with Egyptian cuticles would only lead them to soaking in a primitive form of Palmolive. A Plague of Beans Never let it be said that Yahweh has no sense of humor. However, in his infinite wisdom, the Lord withheld this plague until 1974 when the idea was delivered via divine inspiration brought on by bad pastrami to one Melvin J. Kaminsky. The rest is Slim Whitman-based history. A Plague of Tax Returns If you think trying to figure out what percentage of your home office/man cave is legitimately tax deductible (legally, the correct answer is jack squat), just imagine trying to fill out a Schedule C thats made from a 40-foot papyrus roll with a balky reed pen that smears beet ink even if youre not left-handed. Then imagine doing it in triplicate.

A Plague on Both Your Houses

Plagues. Cant live with em, cant enjoy a proper pharaoh smackdown without em. And while most of us are

A Plague of Donuts I know what youre thinking: How could an abundance of delicious, delicious donuts ever be considered a plague? And shouldnt it be obvious why death by joy didnt make the Lord Thy Gods top ten list of ways to harass the heathen? Not quite. See, as any scientist worth his (rainbow) sprinkles will attest, donuts are, in moderate to large quantities, good for you in that they spike endorphins and whatnot. However, in jumbo quantities, donut consumption may cause a small increase in what is medically known as lardification of the arteries, veins, lymph nodes, bone marrow and bronchial tubes until such time as a single breath results in the expulsion of Boston cream from ones proboscis. And no one, not even YHWH, wants to see that. At least not before the advent of cell phone cameras and YouTube. A Plague of Bloat Obviously, if the Plague of Donuts went buh-bye, so did this follow-up bit of gastrointestinal blight. Besides, anything that can be cured by an afternoon nap doesnt rate very high on the old Scourge o Meter. Jason Fox believes A Touch of the Bloat would be a great band name.
Jason Fox is a writer and sunscreen enthusiast formerly based in Dallas but now luxuriating in Omaha where it is not currently 93 degrees at 11 p.m.

Tartar Island is a small, oval-shaped island located in the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica.

Ped Egg has sold over 40 million callous removers to date. Hopefully to YOUR date.

The Baldwin Brothers have two sisters, Beth and Jane.

Chatter | 19

Chatter takes in the cool Colorado air near Lake Vallecito with Chatter staffers Lindsey Sobolik and Victoria Andrews.

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