I'm back for the second Sunday running! Yeah. Today at church, we learned of the call to go out and do as Jesus did. We heard a lot of Bible verses (John was preaching, and anyone who's been to our church knows exactly what I mean). They spoke of Jesus telling us to do as He did, and that we would do even greater things than He did. So, I started wondering exactly what it meant to do as Jesus did. I don't truly believe I can walk on water. I don't truly believe that my touch alone could heal the sick. I don't think I could take 5 loaves and a couple fish and feed five thousand. Perhaps if I really believed that I could, I could, but I just can't quite get there. So, how do I be like Jesus?
I also recalled the verse about being in the world but not of it. Which something tells me has to do with the same message. For years, I believed that the common interpretation of this was the correct one. That we should hold ourselves apart, and aloof from the down and dirty events of the world. That while we lived here, we should stay away from the things and people not of God. The more I watch the world, read the Bible, and search for God, the more I am coming to believe that this is not quite what He had in mind.
Lastly, I pondered the first thought that occurred to me. I think Jesus sometimes got tired, sometimes grew weary of the attention He brought by just being who He was. That there were times when He tried to escape to rest. He told us that when He was help up, men would be drawn to Him. But it seems to me that in the story of the stormy seas, the sermon on the Mount, the Wilderness, and many others, Jesus often wanted to step away. The key is that being who He was meant that He had faith, and rather than doing what He wanted, He was Himself, and helped those who called to Him, trusting that God would provide the means, as well as the energy He required to fulfill those demands.
In all of these thoughts, which I admit are a little disjointed, the one message that came through to me was this. God, through Jesus, calls us to be ourselves. I have heard many theories about what it means to be a witness. How we are to go about the duty of creating disciples that was laid on us. Today, by the story of one of our young people, I think I get it. She is currently a campus minister in Mexico at a college. She's home on vacation, and told us of the various activities their ministry conducts every week. But the one that really struck me, wasn't one of the activities that the ministry conducts. It was this. She goes out, almost every day to play flag football with the other students. She jokingly said that it really is ministry, not just fun. But the thing is, she's right. She lives her life with the determination to follow God's will for her. But she also lives her life. She goes to class, she eats, listens to music, makes friends, plays football, and forms relationships with people by doing so. Through those relationships, because she lives her life with God at the center, the folks that she meets by living her life come to see God. Kind of cool, huh?
God made each and every one of us just as we are. He gave us the desire to learn, read, write, play, work, act, swim, etc. Whatever gift you have, come from Him. Whatever weaknesses you have come from Him as well. He tells us He's not done with us yet, that we are all works in progress, but He also tells us that we are who we are because He made us so. Doesn't it then follow that we should do our best to be ourselves? That in doing so, we are fulfilling the plans He has for us, and that in doing so, we will be the witnesses that He calls us to be? To me, that's is not only an awesome thought, but kind of a relief. For so many years, I thought I was supposed to strive to be something I wasn't. That I was supposed to learn to enjoy solemn Sunday morning worship, listen to nothing but hymns, read nothing but the Bible, speak of nothing but God, if I was to be a good Christian. And I knew that there was no way on earth I could ever manage that. I like a great mystery story. I like rock and roll, jazz, blues, folk music. I like to talk politics, with and without mixing in religion. And quite frankly, I don't do solemn well at all. But that's the joy of it. I don't have to. I just have to be myself, share myself, and keep my eyes on God. Pretty cool, huh?
Oh, and as for the in the world, not of it theory. That comes back to being like Jesus too. Jesus didn't hang out with the priests. He didn't hang out with the pompous and pious. He hung out with the poor, the weak, the sinful, and showed them what God was all about. In short, He was himself, and wasn't afraid to show that to those who might not understand. He didn't hide behind the righteous religion of the supposed followers of God, condemning all those who didn't know, didn't understand, or couldn't live up to their standards. He went among the people, tirelessly, even when He'd rather be alone, and showed them God's grace. Told them of God's loves. Was the instrument of His infinite mercy and healing. Being in the world means facing the troubles, hardships, and pain of it head on. Meeting it with the love and grace of God, and the gifts and weakness He has blessed you with as the person you are today.
So, this week, as you go through your routines, see the people you see, do your shopping, job, driving, whatever, remember you are a witness for Him. Remember that He has given you all you need to show Him to the world. Just remember to be yourself, and He will do the rest. May you be blessed and loved, and know that just by being, you are a blessing.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Sunday, June 17, 2007
To the Father's in My life
I know it's been a while. I've decided I'd better not make any more promises, as it seems to make it harder to come back to this when I fail. But today is not for that. Today is Father's Day, and I have a story to tell. Actually, I have two.
First, I want to thank God once again for my husband. We heard in church today the a father needs to be present, proactive, and needs to lead by example. My husband asked me after church how I thought he was doing. And all I can say is my children and I have been so richly blessed to have him in our lives. His quiet faith, his examples of respect, perseverance, and compassion are constantly amazing to me. And I have seen such dramatic improvements in my older four children's lives and behavior since he has become a part of our family. And I know that our youngest son will never face the insecurities and heartaches that my older four will. Mainly because he has known since birth that his father loves him, is there for him, and has watched his father set a wonderful example of how to live a happy and fulfilled life that does not focus on things, does not focus on putting on a good face to make an impression on people, but focuses instead on being who you are, being responsible, showing love for the people in your life, and forgiveness for those who need it. That is the first story, and an ongoing blessing that I am so often reminded of, and amazed by.
The second is a different story, and one I have been meaning to write for a while. Today seemed appropriate. I want to thank God today for the amazing man who is my father. My Dad was in the Navy for twenty years. Which meant he was not always present in my life. I think sometimes he regrets that, as he has seen some of the struggles my sisters and I have gone through in life. But I would not have traded that life, or the examples he set by it for anything. Through his service, my father showed me that some things are worth fighting and sacrificing for. He taught me that I should be ever grateful for the freedoms and privileges I have living in this amazing country. And even when he was not there, I knew that I was loved.
There are so many other things my father taught me as I grew up. First, by his example, he showed me God. We did not always go to church. And my parents were by no means perfect people. But they lived their lives with God at the center, with the certain knowledge that He was looking after them, and moving in their lives. And they were both happy to talk of God unashamedly with us. I didn't recognize the value of that as a child, but as an adult, I see what a truly amazing gift that was. My father was also unique in how he spoke with us of his beliefs. My Dad is a pretty bright guy, he was a nuclear electrician's mate, he is extremely good with math, science, as well as English, and artistic stuff. He is also well versed in the beliefs of many religions, not just his own. So when I had questions, as most people do, he could speak to me of what the Bible said, as well as how science viewed things, how other religions worked, and he gave me the ability to form my own conclusions, without fear of asking questions. Without that attitude from him, I would never have grown as close to God as I have in the past years.
My Father gave me a sense of self, not self esteem as the schools preach these days, but a sense of who I was. A sense that I was as good or bad as I chose to be, a sense that who I was did not depend on some one else perceptions or opinions, but on my own choices. I would not have survived the life I have led without that understanding. As importantly, my Father respected the person I was, at any given moment. He might not have liked the things I did sometimes, he may not even have liked the person I was sometimes. But he always treated me as though my thoughts, ideas, opinions and feelings mattered to him. This gave me the strength over the years to demand that others treat me with the same basic respect, and to show others that same respect.
My Dad taught me algebra when I was in third grade, he had me reading the classics when I was eleven, and he had me studying his nuclear electronics manuals around the same time. He taught me how to program in cobal and pascal when the first personal computers were just coming out, I think I was about nine or ten at the time. He taught me how to write an effective letter, how to argue without losing my temper, and that if I did not want a thought known by the world I shouldn't write it down. Some of these things may seem a little advanced for the age I was, and honestly some of it was. Much of it, in and of itself, wasn't much use to me as I got older. But the overall concept that learning was not a school oriented event, that knowledge for the sake of knowledge was valuable, has been an overwhelming boon to my life. More importantly, because my father was never discriminating in what he taught me or talked to me about based on my gender, our social level, or anything like that, I grew up knowing that I was capable of doing anything I chose to do. That is invaluable to me.
Most importantly of all, my Dad made sure I knew I was loved for who I was. That I was accepted for who I was, even when I screwed up. That no matter what, he was my father. And when I turned 18, and he gave me the amazing gift of treating me as the adult I was supposed to be, he also let me know that no matter what he was my friend.
Over the years, and the distance that is between us more often than not, I often forget to stay in touch. I don't see my Dad as often as I'd like. And when I do, we don't often get the chance to sit and shoot the breeze until three in the morning. I miss the conversations of God, politics, philosophy and life that often occur in the wee hours of the morning. I miss the remembered camping trips as we traveled to the next duty station. Where my dad would help us chop the fire wood my sisters and I had gathered, and we would sit and listen to him play guitar and sing around the camp fire. I can still remember that until I moved out of my father's house, whenever he would get his guitar to play for my sister, or later my daughter, I would stop what I was doing to go and listen. I have a wealth or memories from both of my parents, memories of people and experiences, rather than things.
I look at my life now, my children, my husband, and the often rough road I have traveled to get where I am now. And I realize that while I often struggle with bills, two previous husbands often present challenges, and life is sometimes a jumble of activity and strain, I am a happy person, and I have hopes that my children will be happy people when they grow up too. If that is not a successful life, I don't know what is. And I know that if God had not blessed me with the father I have, that success would not have been possible. And if God had not blessed me with the husband I have, that hope for my children would not be nearly as bright.
In church today, I was reminded that not all fathers are what they need to be. I pray for each of you reading this that if you are a father, you will be inspired to be the father you are called to be. If you are a child of a father who wasn't, I pray that you will remember that earthly fathers are human beings, with frailties, faults and insecurities that often keep them from being all they are called to be, but you still have a Father who loves you, and will look after you if you will let Him. Today, I am going to call my Dad, and tell him thank you for all that he has done. I forgave him for the mistakes he thought he made many years ago. I hope you will do the same for yours. May you be blessed in all you do, may you know you are loved, and may you realize the success of being happy in yourself.
First, I want to thank God once again for my husband. We heard in church today the a father needs to be present, proactive, and needs to lead by example. My husband asked me after church how I thought he was doing. And all I can say is my children and I have been so richly blessed to have him in our lives. His quiet faith, his examples of respect, perseverance, and compassion are constantly amazing to me. And I have seen such dramatic improvements in my older four children's lives and behavior since he has become a part of our family. And I know that our youngest son will never face the insecurities and heartaches that my older four will. Mainly because he has known since birth that his father loves him, is there for him, and has watched his father set a wonderful example of how to live a happy and fulfilled life that does not focus on things, does not focus on putting on a good face to make an impression on people, but focuses instead on being who you are, being responsible, showing love for the people in your life, and forgiveness for those who need it. That is the first story, and an ongoing blessing that I am so often reminded of, and amazed by.
The second is a different story, and one I have been meaning to write for a while. Today seemed appropriate. I want to thank God today for the amazing man who is my father. My Dad was in the Navy for twenty years. Which meant he was not always present in my life. I think sometimes he regrets that, as he has seen some of the struggles my sisters and I have gone through in life. But I would not have traded that life, or the examples he set by it for anything. Through his service, my father showed me that some things are worth fighting and sacrificing for. He taught me that I should be ever grateful for the freedoms and privileges I have living in this amazing country. And even when he was not there, I knew that I was loved.
There are so many other things my father taught me as I grew up. First, by his example, he showed me God. We did not always go to church. And my parents were by no means perfect people. But they lived their lives with God at the center, with the certain knowledge that He was looking after them, and moving in their lives. And they were both happy to talk of God unashamedly with us. I didn't recognize the value of that as a child, but as an adult, I see what a truly amazing gift that was. My father was also unique in how he spoke with us of his beliefs. My Dad is a pretty bright guy, he was a nuclear electrician's mate, he is extremely good with math, science, as well as English, and artistic stuff. He is also well versed in the beliefs of many religions, not just his own. So when I had questions, as most people do, he could speak to me of what the Bible said, as well as how science viewed things, how other religions worked, and he gave me the ability to form my own conclusions, without fear of asking questions. Without that attitude from him, I would never have grown as close to God as I have in the past years.
My Father gave me a sense of self, not self esteem as the schools preach these days, but a sense of who I was. A sense that I was as good or bad as I chose to be, a sense that who I was did not depend on some one else perceptions or opinions, but on my own choices. I would not have survived the life I have led without that understanding. As importantly, my Father respected the person I was, at any given moment. He might not have liked the things I did sometimes, he may not even have liked the person I was sometimes. But he always treated me as though my thoughts, ideas, opinions and feelings mattered to him. This gave me the strength over the years to demand that others treat me with the same basic respect, and to show others that same respect.
My Dad taught me algebra when I was in third grade, he had me reading the classics when I was eleven, and he had me studying his nuclear electronics manuals around the same time. He taught me how to program in cobal and pascal when the first personal computers were just coming out, I think I was about nine or ten at the time. He taught me how to write an effective letter, how to argue without losing my temper, and that if I did not want a thought known by the world I shouldn't write it down. Some of these things may seem a little advanced for the age I was, and honestly some of it was. Much of it, in and of itself, wasn't much use to me as I got older. But the overall concept that learning was not a school oriented event, that knowledge for the sake of knowledge was valuable, has been an overwhelming boon to my life. More importantly, because my father was never discriminating in what he taught me or talked to me about based on my gender, our social level, or anything like that, I grew up knowing that I was capable of doing anything I chose to do. That is invaluable to me.
Most importantly of all, my Dad made sure I knew I was loved for who I was. That I was accepted for who I was, even when I screwed up. That no matter what, he was my father. And when I turned 18, and he gave me the amazing gift of treating me as the adult I was supposed to be, he also let me know that no matter what he was my friend.
Over the years, and the distance that is between us more often than not, I often forget to stay in touch. I don't see my Dad as often as I'd like. And when I do, we don't often get the chance to sit and shoot the breeze until three in the morning. I miss the conversations of God, politics, philosophy and life that often occur in the wee hours of the morning. I miss the remembered camping trips as we traveled to the next duty station. Where my dad would help us chop the fire wood my sisters and I had gathered, and we would sit and listen to him play guitar and sing around the camp fire. I can still remember that until I moved out of my father's house, whenever he would get his guitar to play for my sister, or later my daughter, I would stop what I was doing to go and listen. I have a wealth or memories from both of my parents, memories of people and experiences, rather than things.
I look at my life now, my children, my husband, and the often rough road I have traveled to get where I am now. And I realize that while I often struggle with bills, two previous husbands often present challenges, and life is sometimes a jumble of activity and strain, I am a happy person, and I have hopes that my children will be happy people when they grow up too. If that is not a successful life, I don't know what is. And I know that if God had not blessed me with the father I have, that success would not have been possible. And if God had not blessed me with the husband I have, that hope for my children would not be nearly as bright.
In church today, I was reminded that not all fathers are what they need to be. I pray for each of you reading this that if you are a father, you will be inspired to be the father you are called to be. If you are a child of a father who wasn't, I pray that you will remember that earthly fathers are human beings, with frailties, faults and insecurities that often keep them from being all they are called to be, but you still have a Father who loves you, and will look after you if you will let Him. Today, I am going to call my Dad, and tell him thank you for all that he has done. I forgave him for the mistakes he thought he made many years ago. I hope you will do the same for yours. May you be blessed in all you do, may you know you are loved, and may you realize the success of being happy in yourself.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
The bread of Life
I'm not sure the title of this is entirely apt, but I wasn't sure what else to call it. God has been moving so tremendously in my life since the last time I wrote, it would probably take several blogs to cover it, and I don't know if I have time. But almost all of it comes back to obedience of one kind or another, which I almost named this. But for now, I want to focus on the main message of our Women's retreat last weekend.
My husband and I, for several weeks, have been looking for a diet that would meet the needs of our entire family. My daughter was having stress aggravated stomach problems, my son struggles with his weight because of genetics, and there is diabetes on his father's side, which we were concerned about. My husband and I have both put on weight since I started my new job, and we want to get healthier. There didn't seem to be a diet that would meet the needs of all of us, without depriving somebody of something they needed. We've been praying about it, and had just about decided on the Atkin's diet, modified for the kids. It wasn't perfect, but seemed to come closest, as I've done it before and had great success. But there were problems with it, most specifically that not all of my kids are here all the time, and I can't control what they eat elsewhere. For anyone who hasn't heard of this diet, it is a good diet, but you must change the way you eat all the time, not just some of the time, or it will just make you fat. It's also a bit expensive.
I didn't want to go to the women's retreat, and had no idea what the subject of the talks would be, or even that there would be talks for that matter. When I got there, I found out that the main talk was called "Do not eat the bread of Idleness". The speaker at this retreat was a woman named Sue Becker, and she has an amazing story. I'm not going to go into all of it, because she tells it much better than I could hope to, but if you want more information on this when you are finished with this blog, you can check out her website at The Bread Beckers. The gist of the talk was that many of the current illnesses in this country can be traced back, scientifically, to the widespread use of white flour. She explained how wheat, when ground fresh and used immediately contains 40 of the 44 vitamins and minerals your body requires to live, as well as most of the fiber your body needs for your digestive track and immune system to function properly. Now, personally, I've never been one for fad diets, and the health nuts that are dead set against anything except the fruits, vegetables, cheeses and meats you can only buy for twice as much money because they're organic make me a little nuts. The women at the retreat had been chattering on and on about "grinding the wheat", as a catch phrase, and I was fully prepared to discount what I heard Saturday morning when Sue gave her talk. Instead, I was impressed by her very knowledgeable speaking about how the body works, how the foods, both processed and unprocessed affect our systems, and how the Bible supports much of the science she explained. It was a very enlightening, and interesting talk. And I looked up at the end and said, "Okay, I get the point." God speaks to us always if we listen.
Thursday I went and bought a wheat mill, wheat, and a few other items I'd need to get started. I went on Thursday because I felt led to go. Truly, I probably shouldn't have spent the money I did, but I really felt led to do it right now. I know myself well enough to know there would always be something else better to spend the money on. So, I picked up my daughter after work. Where she was staying just happens to be near Bread Beckers, so we went across town (which took forever in afternoon traffic), and found our way to the store. We got there at five after five, and they were closed. Sigh. I said, "Well, we can at least pull in and check their hours so we know when to come back." The sign said 9-5 Monday thru Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday. Sigh again. It's hard to get there before 5 during the week. As we were turning around, the door opened, and a lady stepped out. When we rolled down the window, she asked if we had come far. I told her we were just down from Ball Ground, and that I'd been to the retreat, and decided to get started. I also told her we would be happy to come back another day when I could get there earlier. She said wait a minute to make sure she could take a check because she had just closed out her drawer. She was back a minute later to let us in, and proceeded to take us through all the items we would need. Not pressing anything we didn't need yet, not trying to sell us the most expensive of anything, just getting us what we'd need to get a good start. She then took us in the back, demonstrated how the wheat mill worked, let us try some rolls she'd baked during the day, and helped us out to the car with our purchases. It was a pleasant and informative transaction, with a very nice woman, and overall very comfortable. It was also entirely above and beyond on her part, because our little shopping foray must have made her at least a half hour late getting off, and she was friendly, and not rushed the entire time.
So, that was pretty cool. The next obstacle was concern that my kids wouldn't eat the stuff. I tried several items at the retreat, and they were really good. But kids can be a little weird. I got home, and made some bread. Not only did they eat it, they wanted more, and since Thrusday, all of my kids, except my daughter (she has a kitchen phobia I think), have been asking to help me bake. We've tried several recipes in the recipe collection I was given with the wheat mill, and they have all been delicious. I'm looking forward to trying more.
The really ideal thing about this is that it is healthy. Even the honey used in most recipes, if you use the right kind, can be eaten by pretty much anyone, including diabetics. The bread and cookies and cakes, and the rest of it, taste good, give you the nutrition you need, are filling so you don't have to eat a ton to feel full, and help your system to maintain it's balance. Plus it's fun to cook, doesn't take long, and for us at least, has become a way to spend time together to do something fun and valuable for my kids to learn for later in life.
I think in closing, I'll refer to the verse that was the basis for our retreat "Taste and see that the Lord is Good." God is more than good, and by being obedient, we allow Him to bless us more than we could have possibly known. I hope you all have a blessed and joy filled week. Listen carefully for His direction, then follow His commands with joy, and just see where it takes you, because He is Good. 'Til next time.
My husband and I, for several weeks, have been looking for a diet that would meet the needs of our entire family. My daughter was having stress aggravated stomach problems, my son struggles with his weight because of genetics, and there is diabetes on his father's side, which we were concerned about. My husband and I have both put on weight since I started my new job, and we want to get healthier. There didn't seem to be a diet that would meet the needs of all of us, without depriving somebody of something they needed. We've been praying about it, and had just about decided on the Atkin's diet, modified for the kids. It wasn't perfect, but seemed to come closest, as I've done it before and had great success. But there were problems with it, most specifically that not all of my kids are here all the time, and I can't control what they eat elsewhere. For anyone who hasn't heard of this diet, it is a good diet, but you must change the way you eat all the time, not just some of the time, or it will just make you fat. It's also a bit expensive.
I didn't want to go to the women's retreat, and had no idea what the subject of the talks would be, or even that there would be talks for that matter. When I got there, I found out that the main talk was called "Do not eat the bread of Idleness". The speaker at this retreat was a woman named Sue Becker, and she has an amazing story. I'm not going to go into all of it, because she tells it much better than I could hope to, but if you want more information on this when you are finished with this blog, you can check out her website at The Bread Beckers. The gist of the talk was that many of the current illnesses in this country can be traced back, scientifically, to the widespread use of white flour. She explained how wheat, when ground fresh and used immediately contains 40 of the 44 vitamins and minerals your body requires to live, as well as most of the fiber your body needs for your digestive track and immune system to function properly. Now, personally, I've never been one for fad diets, and the health nuts that are dead set against anything except the fruits, vegetables, cheeses and meats you can only buy for twice as much money because they're organic make me a little nuts. The women at the retreat had been chattering on and on about "grinding the wheat", as a catch phrase, and I was fully prepared to discount what I heard Saturday morning when Sue gave her talk. Instead, I was impressed by her very knowledgeable speaking about how the body works, how the foods, both processed and unprocessed affect our systems, and how the Bible supports much of the science she explained. It was a very enlightening, and interesting talk. And I looked up at the end and said, "Okay, I get the point." God speaks to us always if we listen.
Thursday I went and bought a wheat mill, wheat, and a few other items I'd need to get started. I went on Thursday because I felt led to go. Truly, I probably shouldn't have spent the money I did, but I really felt led to do it right now. I know myself well enough to know there would always be something else better to spend the money on. So, I picked up my daughter after work. Where she was staying just happens to be near Bread Beckers, so we went across town (which took forever in afternoon traffic), and found our way to the store. We got there at five after five, and they were closed. Sigh. I said, "Well, we can at least pull in and check their hours so we know when to come back." The sign said 9-5 Monday thru Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday. Sigh again. It's hard to get there before 5 during the week. As we were turning around, the door opened, and a lady stepped out. When we rolled down the window, she asked if we had come far. I told her we were just down from Ball Ground, and that I'd been to the retreat, and decided to get started. I also told her we would be happy to come back another day when I could get there earlier. She said wait a minute to make sure she could take a check because she had just closed out her drawer. She was back a minute later to let us in, and proceeded to take us through all the items we would need. Not pressing anything we didn't need yet, not trying to sell us the most expensive of anything, just getting us what we'd need to get a good start. She then took us in the back, demonstrated how the wheat mill worked, let us try some rolls she'd baked during the day, and helped us out to the car with our purchases. It was a pleasant and informative transaction, with a very nice woman, and overall very comfortable. It was also entirely above and beyond on her part, because our little shopping foray must have made her at least a half hour late getting off, and she was friendly, and not rushed the entire time.
So, that was pretty cool. The next obstacle was concern that my kids wouldn't eat the stuff. I tried several items at the retreat, and they were really good. But kids can be a little weird. I got home, and made some bread. Not only did they eat it, they wanted more, and since Thrusday, all of my kids, except my daughter (she has a kitchen phobia I think), have been asking to help me bake. We've tried several recipes in the recipe collection I was given with the wheat mill, and they have all been delicious. I'm looking forward to trying more.
The really ideal thing about this is that it is healthy. Even the honey used in most recipes, if you use the right kind, can be eaten by pretty much anyone, including diabetics. The bread and cookies and cakes, and the rest of it, taste good, give you the nutrition you need, are filling so you don't have to eat a ton to feel full, and help your system to maintain it's balance. Plus it's fun to cook, doesn't take long, and for us at least, has become a way to spend time together to do something fun and valuable for my kids to learn for later in life.
I think in closing, I'll refer to the verse that was the basis for our retreat "Taste and see that the Lord is Good." God is more than good, and by being obedient, we allow Him to bless us more than we could have possibly known. I hope you all have a blessed and joy filled week. Listen carefully for His direction, then follow His commands with joy, and just see where it takes you, because He is Good. 'Til next time.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Notes from Beyond
This has been an amazingly intense week. Some good, some bad, some really bad, and all of it leading to good, as always. My daughter is home for good now. A temporary agreement has been reached, and a final one will be soon. The events precipitating this were drastic, and when I get a little more perspective, I'll relate them here. For now, I am just continuing to trust that God is controlling the events as they unfold, and all of them will eventually turn into something amazing, as they always do.
As a result of the turmoil going on the last couple of weeks though, my thoughts have been a little heavy and deep, and I needed a reminder of the lighter overview. As I was surfing the web, I wandered over to one of my favorite blogs on Right Nation, a site I frequent regularly. Ilja, the lady who writes this blog, is having a rough time, and related it to us with amazing grace and faith, and I was moved by that alone. As I was scrolling down though, I ran across something in her sidebars that I'd read before, and wanted to put here. So I asked if I could borrow it, and link her site here. So, if you are looking for more stories of inspiration, questions to ponder, and interesting debate on God, the meaning of life, religion, and more, check out the link. In the meantime, read on.
Prescribed by the Great Physician
As a result of the turmoil going on the last couple of weeks though, my thoughts have been a little heavy and deep, and I needed a reminder of the lighter overview. As I was surfing the web, I wandered over to one of my favorite blogs on Right Nation, a site I frequent regularly. Ilja, the lady who writes this blog, is having a rough time, and related it to us with amazing grace and faith, and I was moved by that alone. As I was scrolling down though, I ran across something in her sidebars that I'd read before, and wanted to put here. So I asked if I could borrow it, and link her site here. So, if you are looking for more stories of inspiration, questions to ponder, and interesting debate on God, the meaning of life, religion, and more, check out the link. In the meantime, read on.
Prescribed by the Great Physician
The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember...'
- Noah was a drunk
- Abraham was too old
- Isaac was a daydreamer
- Jacob was a liar
- Leah was ugly
- Joseph was abused
- Moses had a stuttering problem
- Gideon was afraid
- Samson had long hair and was a womanizer
- Rahab was a prostitute
- Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
- David had an affair and was a murderer
- Elijah was suicidal
- Isaiah preached naked
- Jonah ran from God
- Naomi was a widow
- Job went bankrupt
- Peter denied Christ
- The Disciples fell asleep while praying
- Martha worried about everything
- Mary Magdalene was...
- The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once
- Zaccheus was too small
- Paul was too religious
- Timothy had an ulcer
- ..AND Lazarus was dead!
Now, don't you feel a little better about yourself? As we wander through this life, struggling to be who we are supposed to be, failing often, falling hard, and tiring fast, remember that God uses us for His purpose, and He makes us perfect for His plan. All we have to do is commit to him, and do our best, He will take care of the rest.
I was a day late this week, as is happening too often. Next week I will probably also be late, as I'll be out of town at my very first Women's Retreat for church. I almost canceled with all that's been happening. But I signed up because I believed God was calling me to go, so I'm going because I believe God is calling me to go still. I'll see you when I get back. Betwixt now and then, I hope you have a blessed and awesome week, filled with God, who is all we need.
I was a day late this week, as is happening too often. Next week I will probably also be late, as I'll be out of town at my very first Women's Retreat for church. I almost canceled with all that's been happening. But I signed up because I believed God was calling me to go, so I'm going because I believe God is calling me to go still. I'll see you when I get back. Betwixt now and then, I hope you have a blessed and awesome week, filled with God, who is all we need.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Abundance
I know it's been two weeks, and I've got to apologize for missing without letting you guys know first. We were out of town on Palm Sunday, and were supposed to be on Easter as well. Even though we weren't we were up 'til after midnight waiting on my mom and daughter to return from Virginia, and I was a little distracted.
It's been an amazing couple of weeks, and I don't know where to start. There have been so many things that God has done, big and small. The biggest, and best, though is that my daughter wants to come home. I can't even begin to express the sheer joy of that! Since I initially temporarily lost custody of my oldest two children to my first husband, and subsequently agreed not to fight a permanent custody change because the kids asked me not to, I have prayed not only for their well being, but also that at some point they would come home. And by doing what was right, instead of what was easy, or what I wanted, my daughter had the option of coming home without a fight and without feeling pressured by me. I am truly amazed at God's grace, His love and His ability to work all things for His good.
My oldest son has also decided he likes to go to rendezvous with us, he had a terrific time at the event that had us out of town on Palm Sunday, as did my three youngest. They all managed to have fun, as well as make a little money of their own at the event. And they are completely excited about the prospect of doing more, even though they got rained on, and predicted hail and thunderstorms caused us to cut the week short. Not only that, but all the other participants at the event took the time to be kind, helpful and encouraging to all the kids, even my three year old. For icing on the cake, my husband's father and best friend came down from South Dakota for the event with us, so we got in a great visit as well. While all that went on, my daughter had a wonderful week with my mom and sisters, and had the opportunity to get her head and heart settled down, and seems to be doing a tremendous amount better.
All that was amazing. One more though. My husband, being the truly awesome gift from God that he is, is completely supportive of my daughter moving back in. We both know it will have its own challenges, we know there will be things we need to rearrange, and that we're going to have to make some changes around here, namely getting a bigger house just for starters. But it doesn't matter. Because his reaction wasn't can we do this, it was simply "Okay, so what are we going to need to do, and how are we going to do it?" The other cool thing is that he doesn't laugh when I say I don't know just yet, but that I know God will take care of it.
So, this week, as you go along in life, remember that good things sometimes take time. Remember that doing the right thing is important, even when it seems to cost you. And remember, always, that God is in control, He sees the big picture, and if you let Him, He will take care of all you need, in His own time. May you be blessed, may your prayers be answered, and may your heart be filled with joy and peace and the knowledge of the risen saviour. He loves you, and He's waiting to lead you home, even if that means leading someone back home to you. 'Til next time.
It's been an amazing couple of weeks, and I don't know where to start. There have been so many things that God has done, big and small. The biggest, and best, though is that my daughter wants to come home. I can't even begin to express the sheer joy of that! Since I initially temporarily lost custody of my oldest two children to my first husband, and subsequently agreed not to fight a permanent custody change because the kids asked me not to, I have prayed not only for their well being, but also that at some point they would come home. And by doing what was right, instead of what was easy, or what I wanted, my daughter had the option of coming home without a fight and without feeling pressured by me. I am truly amazed at God's grace, His love and His ability to work all things for His good.
My oldest son has also decided he likes to go to rendezvous with us, he had a terrific time at the event that had us out of town on Palm Sunday, as did my three youngest. They all managed to have fun, as well as make a little money of their own at the event. And they are completely excited about the prospect of doing more, even though they got rained on, and predicted hail and thunderstorms caused us to cut the week short. Not only that, but all the other participants at the event took the time to be kind, helpful and encouraging to all the kids, even my three year old. For icing on the cake, my husband's father and best friend came down from South Dakota for the event with us, so we got in a great visit as well. While all that went on, my daughter had a wonderful week with my mom and sisters, and had the opportunity to get her head and heart settled down, and seems to be doing a tremendous amount better.
All that was amazing. One more though. My husband, being the truly awesome gift from God that he is, is completely supportive of my daughter moving back in. We both know it will have its own challenges, we know there will be things we need to rearrange, and that we're going to have to make some changes around here, namely getting a bigger house just for starters. But it doesn't matter. Because his reaction wasn't can we do this, it was simply "Okay, so what are we going to need to do, and how are we going to do it?" The other cool thing is that he doesn't laugh when I say I don't know just yet, but that I know God will take care of it.
So, this week, as you go along in life, remember that good things sometimes take time. Remember that doing the right thing is important, even when it seems to cost you. And remember, always, that God is in control, He sees the big picture, and if you let Him, He will take care of all you need, in His own time. May you be blessed, may your prayers be answered, and may your heart be filled with joy and peace and the knowledge of the risen saviour. He loves you, and He's waiting to lead you home, even if that means leading someone back home to you. 'Til next time.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
God's Mercy
It's Sunday again, and I nearly forgot this task tonight. It's been a rough weekend. My daughter is having some deep troubles, that I am only now becoming aware of. Troubles that are leading me to have to take actions, but I don't see a clear path. I had the first anxiety attack of more than a year this morning because of it. And then, I had to skip church because she and one of my sons was sick this morning. Altogether, not a good start to the day.
About noon, I found myself crying on my bed, broken, exhausted, anxious, and confused. Praying in a broken, please help, please show me the way. I wept silently, while my family went on about the things they were doing. I wept alone, but not really. Because I know God was there.
The larger problems haven't been resolved, and will take time. And that's okay, because they weren't the ones causing me such distress. There was a more immediate issue. We've been planning an event over spring break for more than two months. The plans are all set, including company coming in for it from out of town. Up until recently, all of the kids, including my daughter, have been excited, and for the most part content with the trip. And Friday, my daughter announced she would not go. That she would run away if I made her. That if I brought her home with me for the days I will have to work, it would leave her in another kind of danger. And that she wanted to go to Savanna with a friend she knows from online. A girl she has been corresponding with for three years. Her best friend. Who lives in South Carolina, whose parents I do not know. My gut screamed no to that, as a parent. I could not agree to send her off with someone I did not know for a week, far away from home, especially with some of the difficulties she'd been describing to me. But at the same time, I did not feel confident that forcing her to go to the event with us was a good idea either. Her concerns with the trip were to some degree valid, and her determination to make trouble over it loomed large. At the same time, I couldn't cancel the plans, and I wouldn't penalize everyone else. So, I was at a loss.
I prayed, and I prayed some more. I called my ex-husband, and set up to meet with him to discuss what was going on, and what needed to be done for the long term. And I called my sister. And I bawled my eyes out. I got all of the thoughts rolling through my head out in the open. I had already talked to my husband. He, as always, was my angel. He leant me an ear, he gave me support, he talked to my daughter. He was my rock. But he is close to the situation, and I needed to talk to someone a little bit outside it. So, I talked to my sister, and I felt better. No closer to a solution for my immediate problem, but at least clear headed to think.
I went about hanging out with my sons, getting ready for a water balloon fight. Getting dinner started. Doing the day to day, with a lighter heart, and a calmer mind. And my phone rang. It was my other sister. She offered to come get my daughter, and let her go visit with her and my mother for the week. Because she loves me, because she loves my daughter. But really, she called me because God loves me, and He moves in our lives when we call to Him. He sends his angels to work for us whenever we are in need.
There is still more turmoil to come. There is still a lot to be worked out between my ex-husband and I to do what is best for our children. But I am no longer afraid of that struggle. I never doubted that God had His hands in this. I never doubted that my prayers would be answered. But I have learned that the answers sometimes take time. Today I was reminded that God, while He works at His own pace, has perfect timing. I was reminded that He will give us exactly what we need, when we need it. And I am at peace knowing that He is in control.
To all of you, may your eyes be open, may your ears be open, and may your hearts be open to see what He is doing in your storms. And may you take heart, and have faith, that He works all things to the good. God bless you and keep you until next time.
About noon, I found myself crying on my bed, broken, exhausted, anxious, and confused. Praying in a broken, please help, please show me the way. I wept silently, while my family went on about the things they were doing. I wept alone, but not really. Because I know God was there.
The larger problems haven't been resolved, and will take time. And that's okay, because they weren't the ones causing me such distress. There was a more immediate issue. We've been planning an event over spring break for more than two months. The plans are all set, including company coming in for it from out of town. Up until recently, all of the kids, including my daughter, have been excited, and for the most part content with the trip. And Friday, my daughter announced she would not go. That she would run away if I made her. That if I brought her home with me for the days I will have to work, it would leave her in another kind of danger. And that she wanted to go to Savanna with a friend she knows from online. A girl she has been corresponding with for three years. Her best friend. Who lives in South Carolina, whose parents I do not know. My gut screamed no to that, as a parent. I could not agree to send her off with someone I did not know for a week, far away from home, especially with some of the difficulties she'd been describing to me. But at the same time, I did not feel confident that forcing her to go to the event with us was a good idea either. Her concerns with the trip were to some degree valid, and her determination to make trouble over it loomed large. At the same time, I couldn't cancel the plans, and I wouldn't penalize everyone else. So, I was at a loss.
I prayed, and I prayed some more. I called my ex-husband, and set up to meet with him to discuss what was going on, and what needed to be done for the long term. And I called my sister. And I bawled my eyes out. I got all of the thoughts rolling through my head out in the open. I had already talked to my husband. He, as always, was my angel. He leant me an ear, he gave me support, he talked to my daughter. He was my rock. But he is close to the situation, and I needed to talk to someone a little bit outside it. So, I talked to my sister, and I felt better. No closer to a solution for my immediate problem, but at least clear headed to think.
I went about hanging out with my sons, getting ready for a water balloon fight. Getting dinner started. Doing the day to day, with a lighter heart, and a calmer mind. And my phone rang. It was my other sister. She offered to come get my daughter, and let her go visit with her and my mother for the week. Because she loves me, because she loves my daughter. But really, she called me because God loves me, and He moves in our lives when we call to Him. He sends his angels to work for us whenever we are in need.
There is still more turmoil to come. There is still a lot to be worked out between my ex-husband and I to do what is best for our children. But I am no longer afraid of that struggle. I never doubted that God had His hands in this. I never doubted that my prayers would be answered. But I have learned that the answers sometimes take time. Today I was reminded that God, while He works at His own pace, has perfect timing. I was reminded that He will give us exactly what we need, when we need it. And I am at peace knowing that He is in control.
To all of you, may your eyes be open, may your ears be open, and may your hearts be open to see what He is doing in your storms. And may you take heart, and have faith, that He works all things to the good. God bless you and keep you until next time.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
The Challenge
Hi everyone! It's got to be short tonight because I have a wonderful husband who likes to make sure I get enough sleep, and it's already past my bedtime. But, I missed my deadline last week, and didn't want to do that again.
So here goes for tonight. God did something amazing for me this morning. He brought me to church, which isn't uncommon, and He sent an awesome message, which also isn't uncommon, but it was still pretty cool. Our assistant pastor was preaching this morning, and the church has been doing something kind of neat since the beginning of Lent. Our services have been a series called Godquest, and the multimedia stuff they've been using is nifty. It involves screen shots from Google Earth, and the panning pictures. This week, we visited Napa so we could discuss grapes and vines.
I don't have time to go into all the details tonight of the incredible impact the message of pruning and cutting, and bearing fruit only when we are attached to Jesus has on me in that hour this morning. I will get into them later this week though. I'm making a promise that by Wednsday night I will have another post going more into the sweetness of the message this weekend. For tonight, I want to focus on the charge we were given today.
At the end of the service, we were challenged to reach out to those around us. Frankly, I don't know many people around here, and those I do know either already go to my church, or attend their own churches regularly. So, I was a little flummoxed as to how I was going to invite someone to come with me next week. But, I realized I can still accept that charge from God. Are you sad, lonely, tired, fed up, angry, a little bit lost, or maybe you're doing great, but there's something a little missing? Awesome, because God is just waiting for you. The people at our church, and those in many others are already praying for you. It doesn't matter that we don't know your name, your story, or your troubles. We're praying for you anyway, and it's working, because God knows your name, your story and your troubles. He knew them before you were even born, and He's just waiting for you to turn to Him. We're here, and I mean every Christian out there, to invite you to come get to know Him. We're here to show you that no matter where you are, what you've done, or what has happened to you, He loves you. Because the truth is, somewhere among us, there is someone who is worse than you. There is someone whose sin is greater, whose sorrow is stronger, whose background is darker than yours, and we all have one thing in common, with each other, and with you. God loves us anyway, He sent his Son to die so that we didn't have to be afraid of our weakness, our failings and our fears.
So, today, I issue everyone of you who reads this an invitation. It's not my invitation, it's His. Find a church this coming Sunday, and join those who worship Him. Go with an open and broken heart, ask for Him to take your life and your heart as His. Ask Him to be your Father. You won't regret it. And if you happen to life in North Georgia, come visit with us at Liberty Hill United Methodist church. Services are at 11, we meet at the Cherokee High School in Canton, GA, and we're expecting you.
For those of you who are afraid, unsure, or dissillusioned with church. I understand, I've been there. If you don't feel ready to meet Him in His house, but you want to know more, I have an invitation to you as well. You can either post comments on this blog, and I will happily respond, or if you are not ready to post your thoughts publicly, you can email me at authenticwitness@yahoo.com. This is a dedicated email, strictly for this site. I will answer it. I may not have the answer for you, but I can tell you what I do know of Him. And I will continue to share what He does for me here.
Until next time, may He bless you, and may you be a beacon for Him to the world.
So here goes for tonight. God did something amazing for me this morning. He brought me to church, which isn't uncommon, and He sent an awesome message, which also isn't uncommon, but it was still pretty cool. Our assistant pastor was preaching this morning, and the church has been doing something kind of neat since the beginning of Lent. Our services have been a series called Godquest, and the multimedia stuff they've been using is nifty. It involves screen shots from Google Earth, and the panning pictures. This week, we visited Napa so we could discuss grapes and vines.
I don't have time to go into all the details tonight of the incredible impact the message of pruning and cutting, and bearing fruit only when we are attached to Jesus has on me in that hour this morning. I will get into them later this week though. I'm making a promise that by Wednsday night I will have another post going more into the sweetness of the message this weekend. For tonight, I want to focus on the charge we were given today.
At the end of the service, we were challenged to reach out to those around us. Frankly, I don't know many people around here, and those I do know either already go to my church, or attend their own churches regularly. So, I was a little flummoxed as to how I was going to invite someone to come with me next week. But, I realized I can still accept that charge from God. Are you sad, lonely, tired, fed up, angry, a little bit lost, or maybe you're doing great, but there's something a little missing? Awesome, because God is just waiting for you. The people at our church, and those in many others are already praying for you. It doesn't matter that we don't know your name, your story, or your troubles. We're praying for you anyway, and it's working, because God knows your name, your story and your troubles. He knew them before you were even born, and He's just waiting for you to turn to Him. We're here, and I mean every Christian out there, to invite you to come get to know Him. We're here to show you that no matter where you are, what you've done, or what has happened to you, He loves you. Because the truth is, somewhere among us, there is someone who is worse than you. There is someone whose sin is greater, whose sorrow is stronger, whose background is darker than yours, and we all have one thing in common, with each other, and with you. God loves us anyway, He sent his Son to die so that we didn't have to be afraid of our weakness, our failings and our fears.
So, today, I issue everyone of you who reads this an invitation. It's not my invitation, it's His. Find a church this coming Sunday, and join those who worship Him. Go with an open and broken heart, ask for Him to take your life and your heart as His. Ask Him to be your Father. You won't regret it. And if you happen to life in North Georgia, come visit with us at Liberty Hill United Methodist church. Services are at 11, we meet at the Cherokee High School in Canton, GA, and we're expecting you.
For those of you who are afraid, unsure, or dissillusioned with church. I understand, I've been there. If you don't feel ready to meet Him in His house, but you want to know more, I have an invitation to you as well. You can either post comments on this blog, and I will happily respond, or if you are not ready to post your thoughts publicly, you can email me at authenticwitness@yahoo.com. This is a dedicated email, strictly for this site. I will answer it. I may not have the answer for you, but I can tell you what I do know of Him. And I will continue to share what He does for me here.
Until next time, may He bless you, and may you be a beacon for Him to the world.
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