Yesterday Kristen had a conversation with the boy she asked to MORP. As it turns out, he was never asked by the other girl or has he given a response. They've talked about going together and he's waiting for her to ask him in a creative way.
Now Kristen feels rejected. She was coping with being late in the asking, but now she has been rejected, though she did everything right.
Sometimes no matter what our intentions, what good things we do for people, how much we sacrifice, or how hard we work, sometimes there is no reward, let alone appreciation. But, we're soldiers, not here for the glory of men, but here to take whatever hits the enemy may have for us and whatever God allows to refine us.
Praise God for his wisdom. He sees what is to come and prepares us for it. He allows us to see what we need of the future to give us wisdom to recognize our circumstances for what they are and to comfort us.
Remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood. It's comforting to know that He knows what's going on and that He's in control.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Monday, October 1, 2007
Heartbreak Hotel
Uuuuuggggghhhhh. Is there anything that breaks your heart more than when one of your kids is hurting through one of life's inevitable disappointments?
Kristen's school does MORP (Prom spelled backwards because the girl asks the boy). It's a school function where they go to dinner, a play, a football game or other event. They dress up according to a theme set by the Associated Student Body. There are traditions to MORP, you wait to ask someone until it has been announced. You ask in a creative way. The boy responds in a similarly creative way.
Kristen has had a heart tug for a boy from her school for 5 years. They've always been friends. There's kind of a kindred spirit between them. They enjoy each other's company. He's a very nice young man from a good family and he's a year younger than Kristen.
Kristen has been waiting for years for this moment, to ask him to MORP. Several weeks ago she got the courage to ask his parents at church if she could ask him to MORP. They said yes. She didn't have to do this, but wanted to make sure she did everything with excellence. It took a lot of courage to take ths step.
She waited for it to be announced, which was Friday. She still didn't know how she was going to ask him. Then, on Saturday, she decided. Saturday night our family left the house at 11 pm and went to the store to buy lots of plastic forks. Dressed all in black we drove to the next town where he lived and forked his lawn. Each of us had a letter. We spelled MORP? on their front lawn. We left an envelope on the front porch where she had designed and wrote an invitation to MORP. We left without a trace.
Sunday morning I saw his Dad. He accused us (rightly) of being at his house the night before. We confessed. Last night the phone rang. It was him. He called to tell Kristen that a girl had asked him on the way to class Friday after the rally if he would go to MORP with her and he said yes. He even said how cool it was that she forked his lawn and that he really wanted to go with her. Kristen graciously said, "That's okay."
Needless to say, Kristen was crushed. Tears flowed, begging us to talk to his parents commenced and the search for a loophole to this unfortunate turn of events ensued. Greg and I told her we couldn't talk to his parents about this because it was his decision. We had the opportunity to talk about the importance of not being bitter towards the girl. To only speak well of her. And we introduced her to something called spiritual warfare, as our battles are not against flesh and blood. It was time to fight. It was time to pray, and pray hard for God to change the circumstances. It's just like the enemy to wedge between two people in a relationship and try to mess things up. We prayed last night with her as we do every night, but this prayer was very different.
She asked for her Bible and asked what she should read. Greg told her Joshua. I checked on her a few minutes later to find her in the dark, laying backwards on her bed with a light shining brightly on God's word. She searched for anything that would help her.
This morning I asked her what she found last night. She said, "Be strong and courageous." She's armed this morning with grace and kindness, though her heart is still a little dented. Please stand in prayer with us. Whatever the outcome, this will be a good learning experience for her in praying through difficult circumstances and standing up for what she believes in.
Kristen's school does MORP (Prom spelled backwards because the girl asks the boy). It's a school function where they go to dinner, a play, a football game or other event. They dress up according to a theme set by the Associated Student Body. There are traditions to MORP, you wait to ask someone until it has been announced. You ask in a creative way. The boy responds in a similarly creative way.
Kristen has had a heart tug for a boy from her school for 5 years. They've always been friends. There's kind of a kindred spirit between them. They enjoy each other's company. He's a very nice young man from a good family and he's a year younger than Kristen.
Kristen has been waiting for years for this moment, to ask him to MORP. Several weeks ago she got the courage to ask his parents at church if she could ask him to MORP. They said yes. She didn't have to do this, but wanted to make sure she did everything with excellence. It took a lot of courage to take ths step.
She waited for it to be announced, which was Friday. She still didn't know how she was going to ask him. Then, on Saturday, she decided. Saturday night our family left the house at 11 pm and went to the store to buy lots of plastic forks. Dressed all in black we drove to the next town where he lived and forked his lawn. Each of us had a letter. We spelled MORP? on their front lawn. We left an envelope on the front porch where she had designed and wrote an invitation to MORP. We left without a trace.
Sunday morning I saw his Dad. He accused us (rightly) of being at his house the night before. We confessed. Last night the phone rang. It was him. He called to tell Kristen that a girl had asked him on the way to class Friday after the rally if he would go to MORP with her and he said yes. He even said how cool it was that she forked his lawn and that he really wanted to go with her. Kristen graciously said, "That's okay."
Needless to say, Kristen was crushed. Tears flowed, begging us to talk to his parents commenced and the search for a loophole to this unfortunate turn of events ensued. Greg and I told her we couldn't talk to his parents about this because it was his decision. We had the opportunity to talk about the importance of not being bitter towards the girl. To only speak well of her. And we introduced her to something called spiritual warfare, as our battles are not against flesh and blood. It was time to fight. It was time to pray, and pray hard for God to change the circumstances. It's just like the enemy to wedge between two people in a relationship and try to mess things up. We prayed last night with her as we do every night, but this prayer was very different.
She asked for her Bible and asked what she should read. Greg told her Joshua. I checked on her a few minutes later to find her in the dark, laying backwards on her bed with a light shining brightly on God's word. She searched for anything that would help her.
This morning I asked her what she found last night. She said, "Be strong and courageous." She's armed this morning with grace and kindness, though her heart is still a little dented. Please stand in prayer with us. Whatever the outcome, this will be a good learning experience for her in praying through difficult circumstances and standing up for what she believes in.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
A New Book
Yesterday I started a new book. No, I haven't finished Just As I Am or Spiritual Leadership but they will be finished! I'm in a new season and am thirsty for other kinds of books. This one is called High Call High Privilege and it's written by Gail MacDonald. Gordon and Gail MacDonald are Pastors and writers. Mainly, they've pastored four churches and she's written numerous books. He's written some books as well. They're a very personable couple. Greg has actually met them. I ordered some booklets from them last year or earlier this year and she autographed each one.
This book is written to every woman in a place of ministry responsibility. I'm about 1/3 of the way through it and am on their second pastorate. I'm loving all the stories she tells about their experiences. We have another thing in common. Their kids are named Mark and Kristy. Close, huh?
Anyway, some of the jewels I got yesterday were the quotes she opens each chapter with, and I wanted to share them with you.
How you can think so well of us,
And be the God you are,
Is darkness to my intellect,
But sunshine to my heart. Frederick Faber, 1874
Have your heart right with Christ, and He will visit you often, and so turn weekdays into Sundays, meals into sacraments, homes into temples and earth into heaven. Charles Spurgeon
Untended fires soon die and become just a pile of ashes. 80 year-old retired Pastor.
Men are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges. Anonymous
Am I prisoner of people's expectations or liberated by Divine promises? Henri Nouwen
Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galations 1:10.
I can't wait to see all that this book holds for me. I can't recommend reading books enough. Sometimes they take you on an adventure, sometimes convict your heart, sometimes open your mind and lead you on to other adventures. They're always something you can learn and grow from. The brain is a muscle, use it or lose it.
This book is written to every woman in a place of ministry responsibility. I'm about 1/3 of the way through it and am on their second pastorate. I'm loving all the stories she tells about their experiences. We have another thing in common. Their kids are named Mark and Kristy. Close, huh?
Anyway, some of the jewels I got yesterday were the quotes she opens each chapter with, and I wanted to share them with you.
How you can think so well of us,
And be the God you are,
Is darkness to my intellect,
But sunshine to my heart. Frederick Faber, 1874
Have your heart right with Christ, and He will visit you often, and so turn weekdays into Sundays, meals into sacraments, homes into temples and earth into heaven. Charles Spurgeon
Untended fires soon die and become just a pile of ashes. 80 year-old retired Pastor.
Men are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges. Anonymous
Am I prisoner of people's expectations or liberated by Divine promises? Henri Nouwen
Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galations 1:10.
I can't wait to see all that this book holds for me. I can't recommend reading books enough. Sometimes they take you on an adventure, sometimes convict your heart, sometimes open your mind and lead you on to other adventures. They're always something you can learn and grow from. The brain is a muscle, use it or lose it.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Appointments
Yesterday I had another PT appointment. They worked me hard again. So hard, that when Kristen came over to stretch me out at the end, my shoulder would not move in some of the directions she wanted it to. She said it was hot and too inflamed to have me do my usual three stretches that day. She said only do it one more time, and lots of ice. So I did. It's improving, I'm not nearly as stuck when I get up in the morning.
Yesterday I also had my 6 month opthamology appointment. To my surprise they dilated me. Usually, they just numb my eyes, stick a pen in each of them, then a blunt blue light to check my pressures. But today was a little different. I had called them before my appointment to see if they were running on time or late. Many of my late afternoon experiences have found me in the waiting room for an hour, then in the examination room for 45 minutes. Greg was leaving for the retreat, so I wanted to spend as much time as possible with him before he left. I was told, "There's almost no one in the waiting room and hardly any folders down the hall. Come on down." So I did. Twenty minutes in the waiting room, then off to the exam room. To my surprise the assistant said, "These are gonna sting", as she squirted my eyes. She's never said that before and they've never stung before. Obviously they changed numbing drops! Yikes! Livable, but not enjoyable.
After checking my vision, I was kicked out of the exam room to sit in the hallway for 45 minutes. Yes, the hallway. As my eyes slowly blurred to the point where I could no longer read, I got to enjoy the comings and goings of doctors, assistants, patients, and . . . a friend! I got to say hi to Eric from church. He's the computer tech that supports the office. It's always nice to see a familiar face in an unexpected place!
It wasn't long that I was in the exam room before the doctor came in. He worried me a little, as he looked at the backs of my eyes with his bright mirror. He repeated one of the eyes, which is always disconcerting. Then he said, "I think you're going to be fine." I love those words. He didn't even check my pressures. I go back for a pressure check in 6 months and glaucoma pictures in 3 weeks, since it's been about a year since my last pictures.
I slept really well last night. A nice flat bed, no waking up from Greg getting up to go to the bathroom, it was fabulous. It was so nice to see gray skies and light rain outside. I ran to the church at 7:30 to open up for a writing seminar, came home and made breakfast for everyone, then went to the store. When I came home Kristen and I watched the first DVD of Oprah's 20th Anniversary series. I didn't stop crying the whole time! It was just too good. I'm so renting the other DVDs. Once I composed myself, I made lunch and started a batch of beef vegetable soup. I love that recipe, especially on rainy days. That, or chili beans. Yummm!!!! It's cooking and we'll have it for dinner and many meals to come. Tomorrow, roasted beasties. (What we call roast beef)
Still need to vacuum and dust, but I feel more like reading, so I'm off to the sofa. Maybe I'll make hot chocolate!?! Hmmmmm . . .
Yesterday I also had my 6 month opthamology appointment. To my surprise they dilated me. Usually, they just numb my eyes, stick a pen in each of them, then a blunt blue light to check my pressures. But today was a little different. I had called them before my appointment to see if they were running on time or late. Many of my late afternoon experiences have found me in the waiting room for an hour, then in the examination room for 45 minutes. Greg was leaving for the retreat, so I wanted to spend as much time as possible with him before he left. I was told, "There's almost no one in the waiting room and hardly any folders down the hall. Come on down." So I did. Twenty minutes in the waiting room, then off to the exam room. To my surprise the assistant said, "These are gonna sting", as she squirted my eyes. She's never said that before and they've never stung before. Obviously they changed numbing drops! Yikes! Livable, but not enjoyable.
After checking my vision, I was kicked out of the exam room to sit in the hallway for 45 minutes. Yes, the hallway. As my eyes slowly blurred to the point where I could no longer read, I got to enjoy the comings and goings of doctors, assistants, patients, and . . . a friend! I got to say hi to Eric from church. He's the computer tech that supports the office. It's always nice to see a familiar face in an unexpected place!
It wasn't long that I was in the exam room before the doctor came in. He worried me a little, as he looked at the backs of my eyes with his bright mirror. He repeated one of the eyes, which is always disconcerting. Then he said, "I think you're going to be fine." I love those words. He didn't even check my pressures. I go back for a pressure check in 6 months and glaucoma pictures in 3 weeks, since it's been about a year since my last pictures.
I slept really well last night. A nice flat bed, no waking up from Greg getting up to go to the bathroom, it was fabulous. It was so nice to see gray skies and light rain outside. I ran to the church at 7:30 to open up for a writing seminar, came home and made breakfast for everyone, then went to the store. When I came home Kristen and I watched the first DVD of Oprah's 20th Anniversary series. I didn't stop crying the whole time! It was just too good. I'm so renting the other DVDs. Once I composed myself, I made lunch and started a batch of beef vegetable soup. I love that recipe, especially on rainy days. That, or chili beans. Yummm!!!! It's cooking and we'll have it for dinner and many meals to come. Tomorrow, roasted beasties. (What we call roast beef)
Still need to vacuum and dust, but I feel more like reading, so I'm off to the sofa. Maybe I'll make hot chocolate!?! Hmmmmm . . .
Friday, September 21, 2007
More PT
Tuesday I had my second Physical Therapy appt and boy did they work me! For over an hour they had me do an entire new list of exercises. The head PT did say I was going really far. I can move about 4 more inches in some of the exercises than a week ago. Yea! I get to go again this morning. I get very sore and my shoulder is very hot afterwards, but the ice feels so good.
Kristen has been sick for a few days. Cold/allergy/sleepy/yucky are all words to describe her ailment. I think she'll be better this weekend.
Mark has a very challenging piano teacher at school. He said he had to work for 10 minutes on one note and still couldn't hear the difference. He was given a new way of practicing and he's struggling with it. His regular teacher gave him no sympathy, simply, "Go with it, he knows what he's doing." Needless to say, Mark had a very bad day that day.
Greg is going on the men's retreat this weekend. I always dread his absence but try to focus on all the stuff I'll get accomplished while he's gone.
Kristen has been sick for a few days. Cold/allergy/sleepy/yucky are all words to describe her ailment. I think she'll be better this weekend.
Mark has a very challenging piano teacher at school. He said he had to work for 10 minutes on one note and still couldn't hear the difference. He was given a new way of practicing and he's struggling with it. His regular teacher gave him no sympathy, simply, "Go with it, he knows what he's doing." Needless to say, Mark had a very bad day that day.
Greg is going on the men's retreat this weekend. I always dread his absence but try to focus on all the stuff I'll get accomplished while he's gone.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Update
Okay, I know it's been awhile and you've been very patient with me. I just have a little update on my little life.
Yes, Mark healed wonderfully, no swelling. Piece of cake.
Friday I had my first physical therapy appt. since the diagnosis. It was great. I had the lady I had before. She has the warmest, softest hands. She's so in the right job for her! Or at least for her hands! I'm happy to announce I've faithfully done all my exercises so far, 3 times a day since Friday morning. I can tell when I get more than 2-3 hours late from my exercise time. My shoulder gets sore and stiff. Nice reminder. I have more range of motion than I did Friday. Yeah!
Mark's 18th birthday was Sunday. We woke up to a forked lawn that said Happy B-Day! Loved it!!!! They also forked his car and wrote on the windows. All tastefully done. It was his friends, though they're not completely confessing yet. We had family down Sunday afternoon, which was nice, but too short. Maybe if I served lunch like my brother, they'd stay longer. Who knows.
Mark's friend's birthday party is today/tonight. Mark wanted to have dinner at a taco truck so we treated them to that. Times have sure changed from Discovery Zone and Pizza to Taco Truck and Metroid Prime 3 on the Wii.
That's about it. Spiritually, it's a time for lots of reading and journaling and praying. I finished the In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day and it was great, especially the last 2 chapters. I already have ideas for who to give that book to for Christmas, etc.
Yes, Mark healed wonderfully, no swelling. Piece of cake.
Friday I had my first physical therapy appt. since the diagnosis. It was great. I had the lady I had before. She has the warmest, softest hands. She's so in the right job for her! Or at least for her hands! I'm happy to announce I've faithfully done all my exercises so far, 3 times a day since Friday morning. I can tell when I get more than 2-3 hours late from my exercise time. My shoulder gets sore and stiff. Nice reminder. I have more range of motion than I did Friday. Yeah!
Mark's 18th birthday was Sunday. We woke up to a forked lawn that said Happy B-Day! Loved it!!!! They also forked his car and wrote on the windows. All tastefully done. It was his friends, though they're not completely confessing yet. We had family down Sunday afternoon, which was nice, but too short. Maybe if I served lunch like my brother, they'd stay longer. Who knows.
Mark's friend's birthday party is today/tonight. Mark wanted to have dinner at a taco truck so we treated them to that. Times have sure changed from Discovery Zone and Pizza to Taco Truck and Metroid Prime 3 on the Wii.
That's about it. Spiritually, it's a time for lots of reading and journaling and praying. I finished the In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day and it was great, especially the last 2 chapters. I already have ideas for who to give that book to for Christmas, etc.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
The Fighter
Mark did well yesterday. He went under just fine, telling stories the whole time. It took about an hour. They let us know where to pick him up. We received our care instructions and waited. They said since he came out of the anesthesia, he had been talking non-stop, asking many questions about what happened. So true of him. He talked early and well and always seeks information. They had to wheel him out in a wheelchair. Looking at him, it was almost like he had been in an accident. His color was kind of yellow, he couldn't talk very well with the gauze in his mouth, and you could see the blood behind his lips. His eyes were sleepy and he was very unstable on his feet. On the way home, he kept writing notes to me to communicate. One said, "I'm a fighter." I just loved that. Considering how nervous he was about the IV, he exited the procedure triumphantly. Yeah!!!!
One socket bled more than the others. It was the impacted tooth site. He drank water, had some applesauce and mashed potatoes, and was good about applying his ice pack. He was a little sore, so we gave him the ibuprofen and pain killer to stay ahead of the pain.
His surgeon called last night around 8:30 just to see how he was doing. He said not to be alarmed if there were brown clots coming out of his mouth in the morning. He said he did well and they had to drill quite a bit to get the impacted tooth out.
This morning, he's not swollen, just a little sore at the extraction sites. He's not hungry yet, which amazes me since he hasn't eaten much in the last 24 hours, but he is craving milk. No clots came out, just a little blood.
The fighter has fought the good fight.
One socket bled more than the others. It was the impacted tooth site. He drank water, had some applesauce and mashed potatoes, and was good about applying his ice pack. He was a little sore, so we gave him the ibuprofen and pain killer to stay ahead of the pain.
His surgeon called last night around 8:30 just to see how he was doing. He said not to be alarmed if there were brown clots coming out of his mouth in the morning. He said he did well and they had to drill quite a bit to get the impacted tooth out.
This morning, he's not swollen, just a little sore at the extraction sites. He's not hungry yet, which amazes me since he hasn't eaten much in the last 24 hours, but he is craving milk. No clots came out, just a little blood.
The fighter has fought the good fight.
Friday, September 7, 2007
A Day of Apprehension
All morning I've felt uneasy. Queezy. Nervous. Some of it might be physiological, as Greg hasn't been feeling well this week. Maybe it's sympathy sickness. I think the biggest part is the tie I have to Mark, as he prepares to have all his wisdom teeth pulled this afternoon, some of which are impacted.
He doesn't like needles and medical visits any more than I do, but needles have caused him to pass out and have seizures the last two times. He seems more concerned with the pain after the extractions than the IV. I'm more concerned how he'll handle the IV. It will be a nerve wracking hour as we wait in the waiting room for him. Prayers are appreciated.
I've been praying for him for the last few weeks as we have known of this appointment. I've tried to not show too much of my motherly concern, but my heart aches for what he has to go through today. All I've been able to do when I think about it is sigh and say my poor baby. I'm realizing that it's true, now matter how old your kids get, there is an unmistaken tie that doesn't break. You can't disengage from it. You can't say, that's them, it's not happening to me, because for some reason, part of it is happening to me.
If this is how we mere mortals feel about our kids, can you imagine how our Father must feel when we go through tough times? I'm thankful he is always with us, always knowing every detail, every thought, feeling and fear. Lord, help me cast these cares on you today, as they're just too heavy for me to carry.
He doesn't like needles and medical visits any more than I do, but needles have caused him to pass out and have seizures the last two times. He seems more concerned with the pain after the extractions than the IV. I'm more concerned how he'll handle the IV. It will be a nerve wracking hour as we wait in the waiting room for him. Prayers are appreciated.
I've been praying for him for the last few weeks as we have known of this appointment. I've tried to not show too much of my motherly concern, but my heart aches for what he has to go through today. All I've been able to do when I think about it is sigh and say my poor baby. I'm realizing that it's true, now matter how old your kids get, there is an unmistaken tie that doesn't break. You can't disengage from it. You can't say, that's them, it's not happening to me, because for some reason, part of it is happening to me.
If this is how we mere mortals feel about our kids, can you imagine how our Father must feel when we go through tough times? I'm thankful he is always with us, always knowing every detail, every thought, feeling and fear. Lord, help me cast these cares on you today, as they're just too heavy for me to carry.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Workin' For It
I spent a few minutes reading today and came across several nuggets of wisdom. The first was when the author talked about his calling. He wrote, "And in retrospect, I'm grateful that it was as long and as hard as it was to discover my calling, because easy answers produce shallow convictions." This reminds me of a conversation I had with our son the other day. We were running errands together and he told me one of his friends just got a new, expensive car as a gift from their parents. I told him I was glad he got to pay for his, as well as recent repairs, because it made him appreciate it and value the work that went into getting it. The same is true of anything we work for. The value is so much deeper than things that are just handed to us in most cases.
Another nugget I discovered is this. "In a sense, sin is short-changing ourselves and short-changing God. It is settling for anything less than God's best. Faith is the exact opposite. Faith is renouncing lesser goods for something greater. And it always involves a calculated risk." This reminds me of my 13 year wait for my amazing husband. I had coined a phrase in my late teens or early 20's that anything worth having was worth waiting for. Funny how that simple phrase had a part in sustaining a pure singleness for all those years. I think of women who are desperate to find a husband for themselves and a father for their children. They settle for less than God's best, thinking they have to beat the clock, because waiting on God will take too long. But oh, the rewards for waiting on God! So worth it.
Another nugget was "If you were to always act in your greatest self-interest, you would always obey God. that is what I mean by a win/win relationship." Isn't that such a true statement? God is so faithful and so loving of His creation. He only wants what is ultimately best for us. Sure, we may have to go through a little fire, but there will always be blessings on the other side. We will be stronger and our character will be made more like His. We will always come out ahead if we obey.
Another nugget I discovered is this. "In a sense, sin is short-changing ourselves and short-changing God. It is settling for anything less than God's best. Faith is the exact opposite. Faith is renouncing lesser goods for something greater. And it always involves a calculated risk." This reminds me of my 13 year wait for my amazing husband. I had coined a phrase in my late teens or early 20's that anything worth having was worth waiting for. Funny how that simple phrase had a part in sustaining a pure singleness for all those years. I think of women who are desperate to find a husband for themselves and a father for their children. They settle for less than God's best, thinking they have to beat the clock, because waiting on God will take too long. But oh, the rewards for waiting on God! So worth it.
Another nugget was "If you were to always act in your greatest self-interest, you would always obey God. that is what I mean by a win/win relationship." Isn't that such a true statement? God is so faithful and so loving of His creation. He only wants what is ultimately best for us. Sure, we may have to go through a little fire, but there will always be blessings on the other side. We will be stronger and our character will be made more like His. We will always come out ahead if we obey.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Milestones
Today was a big day for both of our kids. The kind of day you look forward to with anticipation. The kind of day where you hold your breath in the morning and don't breathe until everyone is home and sharing every detail until you can say, "I'm so proud of you."
Kristen started playing the drums last October. Within weeks she was playing in the youth worship band. Her first drum teacher, on more than one occasion, threw his drum sticks in the air and called her disgusting. Before long she moved onto another teacher. In confidence we asked him what he thought of her talent. Did she have a shot at her dream of touring with a Christian rock band some day? "Absolutely, if she makes the right contacts." In May, just before school was out, she auditioned for the Praise & Worship band at school for the 2007-2008 school year. The band director took her through at least 30 minutes of different songs. She stayed right up with him, changing her beat and the parts of the drums that she used, each song different. He was convinced she was good enough to be in the band. So today, during Chapel at school, she got to perform for the first time. She was nervous but knew this is what she had waited for. Jake said she did well. She though she did well, didn't mess up once! Two teachers and many students told her how well she did. Whew, it was over. I asked her if she was going to be nervous next week. She said no. Yeah!
Today was Mark's first day of college. I can't believe I'm even writing this. Just yesterday he was in his cradle, with that baby smell after his bath, sleeping soundly. Today he drove to college, went to all his classes, picked up a few supplies he still needed, then went to work. Now he's home, doing his Chemistry homework. Each problem has to be on it's own separate index card. You can't hand them in at the beginning of class. You have to meet with the teacher during her office time and spend 15 minutes with her as she looks over your work. Yikes! College sure has changed. And so have the prices! Books for one music class were $165. He has 9 classes! You do the math! We found out that he needs a tux for 5 performances this semester alone. Do we rent? Do we buy? We'll have to figure that one out. I hadn't considered saving for tuxes all those years but hopefully the college funds will pay for wardrobe too.
One more milestone to report. Yesterday Mark got his first 'gig'. He has been asked to play for a wedding in October. How cool is that? I'm going to make business cards for him, because you never know who might want him once they hear him play. It would be a great way to supplement his income.
I told him this morning before I left for work, "Good luck on the first day of the next 4-5 years of your life." He said, "Uggghhhh".
Kristen started playing the drums last October. Within weeks she was playing in the youth worship band. Her first drum teacher, on more than one occasion, threw his drum sticks in the air and called her disgusting. Before long she moved onto another teacher. In confidence we asked him what he thought of her talent. Did she have a shot at her dream of touring with a Christian rock band some day? "Absolutely, if she makes the right contacts." In May, just before school was out, she auditioned for the Praise & Worship band at school for the 2007-2008 school year. The band director took her through at least 30 minutes of different songs. She stayed right up with him, changing her beat and the parts of the drums that she used, each song different. He was convinced she was good enough to be in the band. So today, during Chapel at school, she got to perform for the first time. She was nervous but knew this is what she had waited for. Jake said she did well. She though she did well, didn't mess up once! Two teachers and many students told her how well she did. Whew, it was over. I asked her if she was going to be nervous next week. She said no. Yeah!
Today was Mark's first day of college. I can't believe I'm even writing this. Just yesterday he was in his cradle, with that baby smell after his bath, sleeping soundly. Today he drove to college, went to all his classes, picked up a few supplies he still needed, then went to work. Now he's home, doing his Chemistry homework. Each problem has to be on it's own separate index card. You can't hand them in at the beginning of class. You have to meet with the teacher during her office time and spend 15 minutes with her as she looks over your work. Yikes! College sure has changed. And so have the prices! Books for one music class were $165. He has 9 classes! You do the math! We found out that he needs a tux for 5 performances this semester alone. Do we rent? Do we buy? We'll have to figure that one out. I hadn't considered saving for tuxes all those years but hopefully the college funds will pay for wardrobe too.
One more milestone to report. Yesterday Mark got his first 'gig'. He has been asked to play for a wedding in October. How cool is that? I'm going to make business cards for him, because you never know who might want him once they hear him play. It would be a great way to supplement his income.
I told him this morning before I left for work, "Good luck on the first day of the next 4-5 years of your life." He said, "Uggghhhh".
Monday, September 3, 2007
A Full Sunday
Yesterday was a good day. Full, but good. Church was wonderful as usual. I had the opportunity to meet with a fairly new believer who wanted to volunteer. I just love getting to know people who feel it is time to serve. She has a wonderful heart. As I asked questions, I was drawn in. This is someone I would love to get to know more. To know where she would best serve, I encouraged her to take the Spiritual Gifts Inventory on our website, as well as our Spiritual Pathway Assessment. I have her our Discovering Your Ministry booklet for her to go through, as we won't be having our class in September. There are many places for her to serve and I can't wait to see how God has designed her for ministry. She also asked if there was someone who could help her grow. I seem to be getting a lot of these requests lately, as well as some from people who want to help others grow. The fruit is starting to ripen for harvest.
After church, Greg and I went to a couple's home, who we met during our first Dinners For Eight at our house. They live in Hickman. We were able to talk for some time as she prepared a wonderful meal. We met three of their children who were in their teens and early 20's. After lunch, we were given a tour of their home, their 4 acres of land, goats, horses, dogs, and cats. We even got to go to their daughters' home and see the beautiful quilting she does. After the tour, we came back and had pie. We got some time alone and encouraged them in an area that we knew they were struggling in. They were open and appreciative and we prayed together. It was a wonderful afternoon.
After dinner, it was finally cool enough to venture outside for a walk. Greg and I love to walk, holding hands and talking.
When Mark got home Greg and I spent quite a while talking with him. It was a very emotional talk for me. I didn't even think I could pray without bawling, but I made it through with God's strength.
This morning Greg ran with me. I had mentioned to him last night how we should try and run into our neighbors who we helped with their marriage. Low and behold, as we were running our normal mile around our neighborhood at 7 am, she pulled into her driveway. As we started talking he pulled up pulling their boat. They were off to the lake for the day. We were able to catch up on how they were doing as well as their kids. All is well and even better than before. God is so good, and so faithful.
Today, I get to work on my dig! Can't wait!
After church, Greg and I went to a couple's home, who we met during our first Dinners For Eight at our house. They live in Hickman. We were able to talk for some time as she prepared a wonderful meal. We met three of their children who were in their teens and early 20's. After lunch, we were given a tour of their home, their 4 acres of land, goats, horses, dogs, and cats. We even got to go to their daughters' home and see the beautiful quilting she does. After the tour, we came back and had pie. We got some time alone and encouraged them in an area that we knew they were struggling in. They were open and appreciative and we prayed together. It was a wonderful afternoon.
After dinner, it was finally cool enough to venture outside for a walk. Greg and I love to walk, holding hands and talking.
When Mark got home Greg and I spent quite a while talking with him. It was a very emotional talk for me. I didn't even think I could pray without bawling, but I made it through with God's strength.
This morning Greg ran with me. I had mentioned to him last night how we should try and run into our neighbors who we helped with their marriage. Low and behold, as we were running our normal mile around our neighborhood at 7 am, she pulled into her driveway. As we started talking he pulled up pulling their boat. They were off to the lake for the day. We were able to catch up on how they were doing as well as their kids. All is well and even better than before. God is so good, and so faithful.
Today, I get to work on my dig! Can't wait!
Sunday, September 2, 2007
An Ambitious Saturday
I got up yesterday with just a few things on my mind I needed to do. Housework and take the cat to the vet. The housework went fine, vacuuming, dusting, dishes, floors, bathroom. All done by lunch. The vet appointment wasn't until 2:50, so I had to decide what to do until then.
I decided on making a 4-batch of chocolate chip cookies. I hadn't made cookies in quite a while, so I started getting everything out and found out I needed 8 sticks of butter, and only had 2. I was also short on a few other things, so off to the store I went. As I got to adding the last bit of flour into the biggest bowl I had, my shoulder wouldn't let me continue stirring, and my left arm wasn't strong enough either. "Greg!" Muscular husbands are so wonderful. He saved the day and the cookies were being massed produced. Towards the end I decided to freeze the last bit of dough and clean up the kitchen. I have some time left, what shall I do?
Then it hit me. It was time for another dig. I grabbed my Bibles, my binder from the IBS (Inductive Bible Study) class, and my notebook. It took me about 10 minutes to get my bearings from where I had left off a few weeks ago. Ah yes, 1 Peter. I had done my observation marking for all 5 chapters at once. Now it was time to re familiarize myself with the scripture. I read the introduction in my Bible to get the context of where and why it was written. I read the text. A word stopped me. Deceitful. Hmmmm. The verse read 'For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech." Hmmmm. I went to my electronic Bible program to look up the word. Waiting for it to load, I looked at the clock and it was 2:30. Time to go!
I put the collar and leash on the cat (they like leashes on things at the vet, though my cat becomes a rock when she's scared and doesn't move an inch, even when threatened by a big dog). Sputters has been losing weight. She was 11 pounds about 6 months ago, then 10 lbs. in May, now 8 lbs. You can feel her spine when you pet her. She acts fine, except for the weekly projectile vomiting that we've tried to control with vet appointments and medicines, like kitty Pepto. They shaved a patch from the front of her neck and drew blood. She had been borderline diabetic so with the additional weight loss, I thought it better to retest her. She's still borderline diabetic. Her kidney test was perfect. Everything tested for said she was in fine shape. The vet even said she looked 6 years old, not 12.
She could have hyperthyroidism, and if treated at her age, could cause kidney failure. Most likely it's old age. Cats lose weight to a point, about 30%, which she's done, then stop. I'll weigh her again in about 3 weeks and if her weight is the same, we'll assume it's old age. If she's still losing, we can continue to test at about $70 per test, yikes! to find out what's wrong. I think what's wrong is that she vomits. But the vet said she would do that.
I decided on making a 4-batch of chocolate chip cookies. I hadn't made cookies in quite a while, so I started getting everything out and found out I needed 8 sticks of butter, and only had 2. I was also short on a few other things, so off to the store I went. As I got to adding the last bit of flour into the biggest bowl I had, my shoulder wouldn't let me continue stirring, and my left arm wasn't strong enough either. "Greg!" Muscular husbands are so wonderful. He saved the day and the cookies were being massed produced. Towards the end I decided to freeze the last bit of dough and clean up the kitchen. I have some time left, what shall I do?
Then it hit me. It was time for another dig. I grabbed my Bibles, my binder from the IBS (Inductive Bible Study) class, and my notebook. It took me about 10 minutes to get my bearings from where I had left off a few weeks ago. Ah yes, 1 Peter. I had done my observation marking for all 5 chapters at once. Now it was time to re familiarize myself with the scripture. I read the introduction in my Bible to get the context of where and why it was written. I read the text. A word stopped me. Deceitful. Hmmmm. The verse read 'For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech." Hmmmm. I went to my electronic Bible program to look up the word. Waiting for it to load, I looked at the clock and it was 2:30. Time to go!
I put the collar and leash on the cat (they like leashes on things at the vet, though my cat becomes a rock when she's scared and doesn't move an inch, even when threatened by a big dog). Sputters has been losing weight. She was 11 pounds about 6 months ago, then 10 lbs. in May, now 8 lbs. You can feel her spine when you pet her. She acts fine, except for the weekly projectile vomiting that we've tried to control with vet appointments and medicines, like kitty Pepto. They shaved a patch from the front of her neck and drew blood. She had been borderline diabetic so with the additional weight loss, I thought it better to retest her. She's still borderline diabetic. Her kidney test was perfect. Everything tested for said she was in fine shape. The vet even said she looked 6 years old, not 12.
She could have hyperthyroidism, and if treated at her age, could cause kidney failure. Most likely it's old age. Cats lose weight to a point, about 30%, which she's done, then stop. I'll weigh her again in about 3 weeks and if her weight is the same, we'll assume it's old age. If she's still losing, we can continue to test at about $70 per test, yikes! to find out what's wrong. I think what's wrong is that she vomits. But the vet said she would do that.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Submission to Authority
If there has been a common thread throughout my week, it has been submission to authority. I've witnessed a variety of situations and seen the result of submitting and not submitting to authority.
In one instance a decision was made not to submit. Their spirit knew the right thing to do was to submit, but their flesh wanted to do it another way. A conflict resulted, causing turmoil in their soul. This kind of spiritual conflict is a clear indication that something is very wrong. As a result, God worked everything out for the good of the body and the person has been released from the turmoil.
In another occasion, the person initially resisted submission. During this time, they were in turmoil as well. This person was angry at the situation and lashed out at the very person who was trying to help them and had their best interest at heart in the long run. When they knew they had no choice, they submitted, and God carried them through the situation just fine.
On two other occasions, these people decided to submit right from the start. They were open, transparent, verbally willing to do whatever was needed and wanted by the authorities above them. Everything went smoothly from the start.
Whenever God shows me something multiple times, I take notice. I ask myself if this is for me, or a teaching opportunity for others I need to pass on. I haven't figured out which one this is yet. I'm kind of chewing on it as I write.
I know from experience the consequences from submitting to authority and not. In my first marriage, I liked to argue my point until I won. For me, it was an exercise, a debate, a war of the minds, almost a game. This behavior, rightly so, didn't sit well with my husband. It undermined him in the very role of leadership God had designed for marriage. As a result, this was one ingredient in the demise of the marriage.
In my second marriage, I've done a 180. I submit. I know my place. I know I'm a helpmate and a complement to my husband and I'm happy to be just that. It doesn't mean that I cower or don't share my opinion. It means that once my husband has considered my opinion and all the options, I support his decision. It creates harmony in the home. Our home is at peace because we operate as we should in our marriage relationship. Ephesians 5:22-24 "Wives, submit to your husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything."
In regard to other areas of our lives, our work, our ministry, the government, etc., Romans 13:1-7 tells us "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."
So, who are the authorities that are over you? In a check of myself, I'm going to write each one down, and ask God to shine a bright light on any that I am not submitting to, so I can correct the situation.
In one instance a decision was made not to submit. Their spirit knew the right thing to do was to submit, but their flesh wanted to do it another way. A conflict resulted, causing turmoil in their soul. This kind of spiritual conflict is a clear indication that something is very wrong. As a result, God worked everything out for the good of the body and the person has been released from the turmoil.
In another occasion, the person initially resisted submission. During this time, they were in turmoil as well. This person was angry at the situation and lashed out at the very person who was trying to help them and had their best interest at heart in the long run. When they knew they had no choice, they submitted, and God carried them through the situation just fine.
On two other occasions, these people decided to submit right from the start. They were open, transparent, verbally willing to do whatever was needed and wanted by the authorities above them. Everything went smoothly from the start.
Whenever God shows me something multiple times, I take notice. I ask myself if this is for me, or a teaching opportunity for others I need to pass on. I haven't figured out which one this is yet. I'm kind of chewing on it as I write.
I know from experience the consequences from submitting to authority and not. In my first marriage, I liked to argue my point until I won. For me, it was an exercise, a debate, a war of the minds, almost a game. This behavior, rightly so, didn't sit well with my husband. It undermined him in the very role of leadership God had designed for marriage. As a result, this was one ingredient in the demise of the marriage.
In my second marriage, I've done a 180. I submit. I know my place. I know I'm a helpmate and a complement to my husband and I'm happy to be just that. It doesn't mean that I cower or don't share my opinion. It means that once my husband has considered my opinion and all the options, I support his decision. It creates harmony in the home. Our home is at peace because we operate as we should in our marriage relationship. Ephesians 5:22-24 "Wives, submit to your husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything."
In regard to other areas of our lives, our work, our ministry, the government, etc., Romans 13:1-7 tells us "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."
So, who are the authorities that are over you? In a check of myself, I'm going to write each one down, and ask God to shine a bright light on any that I am not submitting to, so I can correct the situation.
Shoulder Update
Monday my friend Terry from church, who has the gift of healing and intercession, asked if she could pray for me about anything. I explained my shoulder situation and her hands started getting hot. She knew she had to lay her hands on my shoulder and pray for me, so she did. Her hands were indeed hot, and it felt so good. In fact, it was warm and comfortable for a long time afterwards. Since she prayed for me, I haven't had any pain in my shoulder and have actually gained 6 inches in my stretching this week. It feels comfortable. In fact, I've been able to easily pull shirts on and off without difficulty the last few days. I'm confident God is in the process of healing my shoulder. Everyday is better.
I saw the orthopedic specialist today. My radiologists diagnosis from my MRI said it was impingement (pinching) of the rotator cuff, which causes tendinitis. This is a general 'catch all' diagnosis when nothing else stands out. After looking at my x-rays and MRI and doing a brief exam, the specialist is confident I have frozen shoulder syndrome. There are three phases of this condition:
1. Mostly constant pain and lack of movement.
2. No pain with lack of movement.
3. No pain with normal movement.
I'm definitely in stage 2 when I don't over do my arm with a lot of vacuuming, scrubbing, reaching, etc. There are three options for treating this condition.
1. Do nothing. The shoulder will correct itself within 3 years.
2. Do Physical Therapy. People who do this are usually stoic because they will work the arm by stretching and strengthening the muscles, which can cause pain, but it is quicker than a 3 year fix.
3. Go under general anesthesia and have the shoulder forced into position. This is for people who are tired of the pain and lack of full use and just want it fixed now.
I'm opting for option #2, Physical Therapy. I know I've lost muscle mass since I've been injured so I think building up my arm is a good idea. I think God has or is repairing any damage that I've done by moving my arm in quick movements. So, that's the plan. I'll keep you posted as time goes on.
I saw the orthopedic specialist today. My radiologists diagnosis from my MRI said it was impingement (pinching) of the rotator cuff, which causes tendinitis. This is a general 'catch all' diagnosis when nothing else stands out. After looking at my x-rays and MRI and doing a brief exam, the specialist is confident I have frozen shoulder syndrome. There are three phases of this condition:
1. Mostly constant pain and lack of movement.
2. No pain with lack of movement.
3. No pain with normal movement.
I'm definitely in stage 2 when I don't over do my arm with a lot of vacuuming, scrubbing, reaching, etc. There are three options for treating this condition.
1. Do nothing. The shoulder will correct itself within 3 years.
2. Do Physical Therapy. People who do this are usually stoic because they will work the arm by stretching and strengthening the muscles, which can cause pain, but it is quicker than a 3 year fix.
3. Go under general anesthesia and have the shoulder forced into position. This is for people who are tired of the pain and lack of full use and just want it fixed now.
I'm opting for option #2, Physical Therapy. I know I've lost muscle mass since I've been injured so I think building up my arm is a good idea. I think God has or is repairing any damage that I've done by moving my arm in quick movements. So, that's the plan. I'll keep you posted as time goes on.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Divine Appointments
I'm happy to have something to blog about. I've been feeling guilty for not blogging daily. Not that there are any rules for blogging, but I feel is is a responsibility that if people are going to take the time to check for new information in a blog, it should be there on some sort of consistent basis. I'll try to do better.
The Harvest Crusade exceeded my expectations to say the least. I was amazed at the number of people in the amphitheater and those outside who couldn't get in. 50,000 in three days! I had no idea that many people could get in the grassy bowl I graduated in some 20+ years ago.
There were a couple of stories I'd like to share with you. One I heard of yesterday. We have an ex-49er football player at our church and he was working as a follow-up counselor. God paired him up with a handful of boys, around the age of 10, who had just given their lives to Christ. As they talked, it was revealed they all played football. Can you imagine a real life pro football player counseling you after you accepted Christ? They must have felt like they died and went to heaven. (Figuratively speaking of course!)
Another divine appointment was when my husband and I were joined by a salesman and the man he invited. The salesman had prayed about who to invite. He had over 6700 customers and this man's time kept coming to mind. He invited him and he said yes. Greg talked to him quite a bit before the concert started and learned a lot about his situation. He lost his wife a year ago, his children were in a variety of living situations, he was on disability but wanted to find work as a janitor. He said he had fallen away from church after some private confessions he shared with his church leadership were used against him. He never trusted clergy again. He was fairly stoic during the concert, but when Greg Laurie started to speak, he leaned intently forward, hanging on every word. We prayed for him silently during the message. When the invitation started, he was starting to sob. He went forward and re-dedicated his life to Christ. Greg prayed with him afterwards.
The coolest part for me was the personal stories of this man and seeing the result of an open heart. It was hearing that boys got counseled by a football star. It was hearing Greg Laurie talk about Travis Starn's life and heart in front of 17,000 people. The crusade made me realize that the neatest things in life are getting connected to people and learning their stories. Exchanging wisdom, helping people get to the next step or level in their walk, watching God do amazing things in their lives. It's not always easy, it's not always clean and tidy, it doesn't always leave you with more energy than when you started. Sometimes it leaves you in tears, exhausted, confused, or hurt. But it's worth it. God designed us to get involved in people's lives, to give a leg up, to help wherever and whenever we can. As I saw Greg ask that gentleman a host of questions, sometimes I wondered 'how can you be so nosy?' But the question should have been, 'how can I care too?'.
The Harvest Crusade exceeded my expectations to say the least. I was amazed at the number of people in the amphitheater and those outside who couldn't get in. 50,000 in three days! I had no idea that many people could get in the grassy bowl I graduated in some 20+ years ago.
There were a couple of stories I'd like to share with you. One I heard of yesterday. We have an ex-49er football player at our church and he was working as a follow-up counselor. God paired him up with a handful of boys, around the age of 10, who had just given their lives to Christ. As they talked, it was revealed they all played football. Can you imagine a real life pro football player counseling you after you accepted Christ? They must have felt like they died and went to heaven. (Figuratively speaking of course!)
Another divine appointment was when my husband and I were joined by a salesman and the man he invited. The salesman had prayed about who to invite. He had over 6700 customers and this man's time kept coming to mind. He invited him and he said yes. Greg talked to him quite a bit before the concert started and learned a lot about his situation. He lost his wife a year ago, his children were in a variety of living situations, he was on disability but wanted to find work as a janitor. He said he had fallen away from church after some private confessions he shared with his church leadership were used against him. He never trusted clergy again. He was fairly stoic during the concert, but when Greg Laurie started to speak, he leaned intently forward, hanging on every word. We prayed for him silently during the message. When the invitation started, he was starting to sob. He went forward and re-dedicated his life to Christ. Greg prayed with him afterwards.
The coolest part for me was the personal stories of this man and seeing the result of an open heart. It was hearing that boys got counseled by a football star. It was hearing Greg Laurie talk about Travis Starn's life and heart in front of 17,000 people. The crusade made me realize that the neatest things in life are getting connected to people and learning their stories. Exchanging wisdom, helping people get to the next step or level in their walk, watching God do amazing things in their lives. It's not always easy, it's not always clean and tidy, it doesn't always leave you with more energy than when you started. Sometimes it leaves you in tears, exhausted, confused, or hurt. But it's worth it. God designed us to get involved in people's lives, to give a leg up, to help wherever and whenever we can. As I saw Greg ask that gentleman a host of questions, sometimes I wondered 'how can you be so nosy?' But the question should have been, 'how can I care too?'.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Acts 2
I've heard my Pastor, an elder, and our Associate Pastor talk about what they've read in Acts Chapter 2. So, being one who is easily influenced by what others are reading, that's what I chose to read this morning. The verses that struck me were verses 46-47. "They worshipped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved."
As I read that, my eyes kept going back to "They worshipped together at the Temple each day". I've been thinking for the last 3 months about how great it would be to have a revival at our church for a week or two each summer. Nights of worship, prayer, and a message. The worship and prayer would be the majority of the evening and there would be an opportunity to accept Christ each night. Different Pastors from our community would take turns speaking. How rich would that be?
We got a taste of it with the Harvest Prayer & Worship night a few weeks ago. It was too short. I wanted it to go on for much longer.
This is a time to humble ourselves before God, faithfully submitting our hearts to his desires. Casting away all our fears, insecurities, and selfishness. Stripping away the things that hinder us from wholehearted worship of the God that saved us from an eternal hell. We don't even have to wait for a church sponsored evening of prayer and worship. We can do it in our small groups, with our families, even alone. How will you worship your God today?
As I read that, my eyes kept going back to "They worshipped together at the Temple each day". I've been thinking for the last 3 months about how great it would be to have a revival at our church for a week or two each summer. Nights of worship, prayer, and a message. The worship and prayer would be the majority of the evening and there would be an opportunity to accept Christ each night. Different Pastors from our community would take turns speaking. How rich would that be?
We got a taste of it with the Harvest Prayer & Worship night a few weeks ago. It was too short. I wanted it to go on for much longer.
This is a time to humble ourselves before God, faithfully submitting our hearts to his desires. Casting away all our fears, insecurities, and selfishness. Stripping away the things that hinder us from wholehearted worship of the God that saved us from an eternal hell. We don't even have to wait for a church sponsored evening of prayer and worship. We can do it in our small groups, with our families, even alone. How will you worship your God today?
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Reading Update
I started a new book this week. It's called In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day. Don't you just love that title? I'm about 60+ pages into it and so far it's about courage, facing fears, and praying for the right things. What I liked about today's reading is how the author talked about our prayers so often ask for protection or for pain to be taken away. If our lives had no pain and no crisis, how could we grow? It's through those trying times that we learn to lean on God the most and learn to trust him, no matter what life throws our way. We should be praying that God would bring us the opportunities that we need in order to grow. Is that brave or what? Kind of like, Bring the Rain, huh? We have to change our mindset, or in corporate terms, have a paradigm shift. That's what we should be praying for each day.
I've also been reading Billy Graham's book. He has graduated from college, gotten married, had his first child, and is quickly building Youth for Christ in Europe. Talk about a boundless enthusiasm. This guy never ran out of energy. Maybe when he had the Mumps for two months. It's a fascinating book of a man with incredible faith.
So, what are you reading? Feel free to leave a comment. I usually read books that people suggest to me. Your brain is a muscle, exercise it! Also, did you know that whenever you learn something new, you put another wrinkle in your brain? I want a very wrinkled brain when I die. How about you?
I've also been reading Billy Graham's book. He has graduated from college, gotten married, had his first child, and is quickly building Youth for Christ in Europe. Talk about a boundless enthusiasm. This guy never ran out of energy. Maybe when he had the Mumps for two months. It's a fascinating book of a man with incredible faith.
So, what are you reading? Feel free to leave a comment. I usually read books that people suggest to me. Your brain is a muscle, exercise it! Also, did you know that whenever you learn something new, you put another wrinkle in your brain? I want a very wrinkled brain when I die. How about you?
Monday, August 20, 2007
School Bells Ring
It was inevitable. I've watched friends and co-workers get their kids ready to start another year of school, and today, the day has hit our family. My sophomore has been in a state of apprehension for several weeks, but I'm happy to say this morning she woke up with a great attitude and an air of self-confidence. Yeah!
This doesn't just affect her, my schedule moves up 30-45 minutes as well. This morning was the first morning I've run in the dark since last winter. It was a little eery, but it was quiet and cool. The sun started to come up just as we finished our last lap.
It is a little empty this morning, though, because for the first time in 11 years, I only have one child getting ready for school. Mark starts Stanislaus the first week of September. He's sleeping now, giving Kristen full freedom in the bathroom and kitchen to get ready. It makes for a quiet morning. But this will change in a few weeks, though he goes a little later in the morning.
I will surely be praying for my little one throughout the day. I wonder how my life would have been different if I had praying parents when I went to school and faced all they challenges of growing up. I'm glad my kids are covered. I trust you are praying for your kids daily too.
This doesn't just affect her, my schedule moves up 30-45 minutes as well. This morning was the first morning I've run in the dark since last winter. It was a little eery, but it was quiet and cool. The sun started to come up just as we finished our last lap.
It is a little empty this morning, though, because for the first time in 11 years, I only have one child getting ready for school. Mark starts Stanislaus the first week of September. He's sleeping now, giving Kristen full freedom in the bathroom and kitchen to get ready. It makes for a quiet morning. But this will change in a few weeks, though he goes a little later in the morning.
I will surely be praying for my little one throughout the day. I wonder how my life would have been different if I had praying parents when I went to school and faced all they challenges of growing up. I'm glad my kids are covered. I trust you are praying for your kids daily too.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
And the Saga Continues . . .
I had my post MRI appointment yesterday. Other than tendonitis, it might be something called frozen shoulder phenomenon. It's a phenomenon because the medical community doesn't fully understand it. It's when the fibers in the membrane surrounding the joint freeze up, tighten up and pull back, scarring. With physical therapy, this phenomenon goes away in most cases in a year. All of a sudden, you have full range of motion again. With either diagnosis, I will be having physical therapy to stretch my shoulder. I'm being referred to an orthopedic shoulder specialist to determine which diagnosis is true, so the exercises can be customized to my problem. If it is frozen shoulder and it doesn't unfreeze in a year, they will put me under general anesthesia and force my shoulder to have mobility. I'll keep you posted!
A few anniversaries I'd like to share with you. On August 16th, (Thursday) I enjoyed my 20th anniversary of attending New Life Christian Center. Yesterday, (Friday) Greg and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary of when we became engaged. We had dinner at Black Angus after my doctor's appointment, went to the mall and shopped for a nice purity ring for our daughter, grabbed a Slurpee at 7-11 and went to Donolly park where we sat at a picnic table, enjoyed the stars and the lake, and pretty much talked about ministry for almost 2 hours. We got home around 10:30, tired, full, and content.
Blessings to all.
A few anniversaries I'd like to share with you. On August 16th, (Thursday) I enjoyed my 20th anniversary of attending New Life Christian Center. Yesterday, (Friday) Greg and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary of when we became engaged. We had dinner at Black Angus after my doctor's appointment, went to the mall and shopped for a nice purity ring for our daughter, grabbed a Slurpee at 7-11 and went to Donolly park where we sat at a picnic table, enjoyed the stars and the lake, and pretty much talked about ministry for almost 2 hours. We got home around 10:30, tired, full, and content.
Blessings to all.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Discovering the Will of God Part II
As I continue watching the DVD by Andy Stanley, I'm intrigued at the insight that he is pouring out. Last night he talked about seeking wise counsel. Sometimes we have tunnel vision regarding how God will and should speak to us. We assume the position that he speaks primarily to our hearts or through a verse in the Bible. We're often discouraged when this doesn't happen, thinking that we haven't 'caught' it.
Andy said that the primary way that God speaks to him is through other people in the body of Christ that he has known to be wise and mature, in a place in their life where he wants to be. He has a small group and they are made up of parents of young children. Their studies primarily consist of raising Godly children and being good parents. At the end of their studies they invite a couple whose children are grown, who have done a great job with their kids. Straight A students who love and serve God and who are in college leading pure lives. They spend the next 2 hours just asking questions of this couple, seeking their wisdom.
He made the point that you don't have to call someone up you want advise from and say, "Now, I'm expecting God to speak through you to me on this matter, so I want you to know I'll be listening intently to what you have to say." It's rather in the casual conversations with wise and spiritually mature people that they just know when God has spoken to them.
I told Greg about this session when I came home last night. He confirmed that I experienced that myself when we were starting to see each other. (Today is our 3rd anniversary of our engagement!) I wasn't sure he was the one God had chosen for me and I had a casual conversation with his roommate on the phone while Greg was in Belize on a missions trip. I had alot of assets and Greg had practically none. I saw this as a sign that we didn't have the same financial planning goals. His roommate told me that God does that. He takes two individuals and brings them together to make one whole person. Where one lacks, they other provides, and vice versa. The light bulb went off. Together we won't be lacking anything. He brings things I didn't have, and I brought things he didn't have. We're both so much richer because of it. I turned a corner in our relationship that night and we were off and running, and we've been joyfully running ever since.
When have you had a conversation with someone and they answer you've been seeking God for showed up in their words? It's a very cool thing when it happens. Broaden your expectations of how God speaks to you. He is not limited to speaking to your heart or through the Bible. He speaks through people, circumstances, and all kinds of ways I'm sure I'm not even aware of. Look for God in the small things and the big things. He's everywhere!
Andy said that the primary way that God speaks to him is through other people in the body of Christ that he has known to be wise and mature, in a place in their life where he wants to be. He has a small group and they are made up of parents of young children. Their studies primarily consist of raising Godly children and being good parents. At the end of their studies they invite a couple whose children are grown, who have done a great job with their kids. Straight A students who love and serve God and who are in college leading pure lives. They spend the next 2 hours just asking questions of this couple, seeking their wisdom.
He made the point that you don't have to call someone up you want advise from and say, "Now, I'm expecting God to speak through you to me on this matter, so I want you to know I'll be listening intently to what you have to say." It's rather in the casual conversations with wise and spiritually mature people that they just know when God has spoken to them.
I told Greg about this session when I came home last night. He confirmed that I experienced that myself when we were starting to see each other. (Today is our 3rd anniversary of our engagement!) I wasn't sure he was the one God had chosen for me and I had a casual conversation with his roommate on the phone while Greg was in Belize on a missions trip. I had alot of assets and Greg had practically none. I saw this as a sign that we didn't have the same financial planning goals. His roommate told me that God does that. He takes two individuals and brings them together to make one whole person. Where one lacks, they other provides, and vice versa. The light bulb went off. Together we won't be lacking anything. He brings things I didn't have, and I brought things he didn't have. We're both so much richer because of it. I turned a corner in our relationship that night and we were off and running, and we've been joyfully running ever since.
When have you had a conversation with someone and they answer you've been seeking God for showed up in their words? It's a very cool thing when it happens. Broaden your expectations of how God speaks to you. He is not limited to speaking to your heart or through the Bible. He speaks through people, circumstances, and all kinds of ways I'm sure I'm not even aware of. Look for God in the small things and the big things. He's everywhere!
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