What does “Transparent Christian” mean anyway?
I latched onto this concept (one I didn’t create) out of my frustration with dishonesty and the masks that we (I) wear on a daily basis. I want to attempt to live my life in the open…because when we are honest with each other (and ourselves) we can heal the busted areas, support each other and hold each other accountable for our actions/decisions. I have had conversations where I thought…”I KNOW this person isn’t telling me the truth, I wish they wouldn’t have to feel that way.” I have also thought, “well, I don’t want to tell this person the truth, because of what they might think of me.
Let’s be real with each other!
How are we different then the hundreds of other Christian web magazines?
My hope is that Christians and non-Christians would get something out of these stories and articles. Although I think it’s a noble pursuit to pray the prayer of salvation with someone, not all people are interested in being Christians. Therefore, friends, neighbors, coworkers and strangers will benefit from Jesus by me, just being a better me (Jesus follower).
How are we making money?
Great question! We’re not. I have invested countless hours and a some money to develop the site. I am not going to be selling addresses (ever) or posting advertising anytime soon. Traditional magazines make money by either selling subscriptions or selling advertising space (cyber or otherwise) on their ‘pages’. I would be happy to accept donations, but no one is paying us for writing any articles on the magazine, and we are trying to focus on good content and God’s leading. I’m exploring opportunities to help some folks promote their services in a unique way. More information will come sometime mid June 08.
The only ‘needs’ the magazine has financially right now is moving the hosting over to another provider so I have more control over the design. (I would put the new logo on every page for example). I also would like a more professional looking ’skin’ on the magazine…There are some great designs out there that I can download for a little money and then tweak.
How do I contribute an article and what are the requirements?
The first requirement is to realize that at this point, there is only one editor (and I’m busy with a cool wife, two small kids and a fulltime job). I am searching for a certain ‘voice’ for my articles…something that a ‘Christian’ or ‘Non-Christian’ would enjoy reading. I’m fascinated by a spiritual journey at any stage, and what you are learning along the way. Submit something if you are interested.
How often does this “Magazine” come out?
This is a living, breathing entity. New articles are posted typically weekly, they go live on Monday. Responses are posted in real time, and typically throughout the week.
How can I subscribe?
Just click on “Subscribe to Transparent Christian Magazine” in the upper right corner of the site.
What are we doing in our community, what is our ministry?
I’m hoping that the articles and stories are blessing people, and we are reaching an audience in different parts of the world. I have received a few e-mails from England lately…The web is a crazy world. We are also putting on a Songwriter Night to raise money for Faces of Hope, a non-profit that wants to build an autism center in Hendersonville, Tn. I am in the process of bringing some house concerts to life this summer, and we have been working on helping some Christian artists promote themselves. Also, getting the word of Jesus to the masses in a relevant way, is my true ministry!
I’m not a writer, how can I help?
Another great question! Thank you for asking! Put us on your blogroll. Link to us from your MySpace, Facebook, Shoutlife or wherever. We have a widget that you can put on your site also. It is a small application and automatically updates every time there is a new article posted.
Get the Transparent Christian Magazine widget and many other great free widgets at Widgetbox!
Who the heck are you anyway?
My name is Jason Elkins, and I’m a normal dude living in Hendersonville, Tennessee. I work in website sales/marketing for Keystone Business Solutions. I have a communications degree from Central Michigan University and just started writing last year. You can read more about why I stared the magazine above or on the Magazine Overview page.
I have a great wife and 2 kids. I do not have a formal religious degree, and I never went to a Christian School (high school or otherwise). I have found my relationship with Jesus has helped to define my whole life, and I find that pretty interesting. My knowledge has come from some excellent mentors, study, leading a lifegroup, and regular prayer. I ask God for wisdom and strength and try to see God in all situations. Join me as we learn together.
How do I contact you?
Jason@TransparentYou.com
Transparent Christian Magazine
103 Orchard Valley Circle
Hendersonville, Tn 37075
